Stephie Estie | Page 19 of 39 |

PopSugar Must Have Unboxing September 2015!

September 22, 2015

Disclaimer: This post contains a referral link.

Hi guys! How was your weekend? I spent my Sunday at the International Congress of Esthetics and in Long Beach which is a trade show heaven for skincare professionals. I picked up a few items which I’ll be posting on Instagram so follow me if you’re interested to see what I picked up. 🙂 I also attended a conference on makeup for acne-prone skin taught by celebrity makeup artist Angelica Itomura so that was exciting and very informative. All right, let’s get to today’s post.

September’s PopSugar Must Have box has arrived and if you haven’t heard of this it’s a monthly box whose items range from fashion, beauty, home, fitness and food, making it a well rounded subscription box. Subscription plans start at $39.95, all items are full size and are valued at over $100.

The inspiration behind this month’s box.

Hudson + Bleecker Labyrinth Onyx Travel Trio, $42

This travel friendly and TSA-friendly clear pouch holds your items while there are two printed drawstring bags that can be used to store shoes.

Briogeo Rosarco Milk Reparative Leave-In Conditioning Spray, $20

This leave in conditioning spray is infused with argan, rose hip and coconut oils that help protect against heat and nourish your hair. This did not weigh my hair down nor did it feel heavy. I feel leave-in conditioners are a must for my curly hair and this one is a good one to try.

Kris Nations “XO” Stud Earrings, $35

These handmade California stud earrings are “cut from recycled brass and plated with 14k gold.” I think the little XO design is cute and although I hardly wear earrings, I’ll give these a try. Plus, I love the little glass container packaging it came in, perhaps more than the earrings, haha.

NCLA So Rich Vitamin-E Enriched Cuticle Oil, $18

An oil that softens and conditions cuticles with just a drop. This strengthening oil is said to “keep nails moisturized and smelling divine” and I love the smell. To me, it’s reminiscent of almonds and cherries or something among those lines.

Nourish Snacks Almond to Cherries, $2

A healthy, well-proportioned snack that contains six grams of protein and three grams of fiber to give you energy throughout the day. Almonds are one of my favorite snacks and combined with cherries-yum!

Too Faced Cosmetics Brow Envy Brow Shaping & Defining Kit, $39

In my opinion the star product in this box is this brow kit. Included are two customizable brow powders, a highlighter, a setting wax, a mini spoolie and brow brush, eyebrow stencils and a small set of tweezers. Full review to come later on this one.

A closer look at the cuticle oil, earrings and brow kit.

Other goodies included that are not pictured were 20% off coupons for Too Faced and Kris Nations along with two, $10 coupon codes to share PopSugar with friends and family. Overall, another great box and one of my favorites so far.

If you’re interested in trying out PopSugar Must Have, click here and use coupon code MUSTHAVE5 for $5 off your first subscription box.

Have a great Tuesday,

Stephanie

Skin Tip: Ingredients to Avoid When Pregnant!

September 18, 2015

Happy Friday readers! Can’t believe it’s Friday again!

When you are pregnant, here are three major skincare ingredients to avoid: retinol, Isotretinoin and hydroquinone. If you’re ever in doubt of which ingredients to use, ask your healthcare professional.

Have a great weekend everyone and don’t forget to tune in tomorrow to The Peachy Queen Blog for great posts including a new and exclusive post where I will be talking about the red lipstick as concealer trend!

Stephanie

September Birchbox Unboxing 2015!

September 17, 2015

Disclosure: This post contains a referral link.

September’s Birchbox is here and this month they’re celebrating their subscribers. Take a look at what was included in my box.

L’Artisan Parfumeur Mure et Musc Eau de Toilette

Described as having notes of blackberry, rich musk and wood, this sample perfume smells like men’s cologne and I don’t like it at all. The blackberry and musk scent combination doesn’t mesh well with me. Sorry to say but I will be discarding this immediately.

Anastasia Beverly Hills Perfect Brow Pencil

The sample choices this month were between Pop Beauty Eyeshadow Trio, Davine’s LoveShampoo and packet conditoner and Anastasia Beverly Hills Perfect Brow Pencil. I picked the eyebrow pencil as I needed one and I’m already a fan of the powder duo. Personally, I prefer powder over pencil because I feel it gives a softer effect but this will do for now. I can always blend it out. 🙂

TOCCA Esfoliante de Corpo in Bianca

I’m happy this sugar based body exfoliant was included since it has two of my favorite scents: lemon and green tea. I tried a little bit on my hands and the word luxurious came to mind. Seriously a must try for the cooler months ahead as it leaves skin feeling hydrated and silky. *Note: Sensitive skin should tread with caution as it is fragrant.

treStiQue Correct & Cover Concealer Crayon in Bisque

I haven’t tried this concealer yet but I love the packaging. The top portion is the cap, shaped like the tip of the concealer-how cute is that. I’m a little nervous testing this because it’s infused with coconut oil and I’m worried it may be too heavy for the eye area. We’ll see.

Rene Furterer Absolue Keratine Sublime Renewal Leave-in Cream

This “keratin-rich cream smoothes, restores, and protects even the most damaged strands.” It’s heavily fragranced but I don’t find it overpowering. It is a rich, heavy cream that feels soft but I need more time to really see if it makes a difference. Having curly, color treated hair, I feel I am a perfect candidate. Stay tuned for a review.

Overall, it was a good box and although I won’t be using the fragrance sample, the Tocca exfoliant made it worth it.

Curious to try out Birchbox? You can subscribe to Birchbox for $10.00 per month and receive 50 bonus points to use towards a purchase by clicking here . If you subscribe before October 9th, you’ll receive your first box for only $5.00.

What are your thoughts on this month’s box?

Stephanie

Too Faced Born This Way Foundation + Sunday Riley Ceramic Slip Cleanser Review!

September 15, 2015

Hi everyone! How was your weekend?

I have quick reviews on two popular makeup and skincare to share today so let’s get to it. 🙂

Too Faced Born This Way Foundation

Described as “an oil-free foundation for natural-looking, full coverage and a beautiful, radiant finish.” It also boasts ingredients like coconut water, hyaluronic acid and alpine rose.

Pros

Feels light-weight on the skin

Easily applies to the skin

Was a good color match

Buildable coverage

Cons

Tends to separate on skin giving a peeling skin illusion

Emphasized my pores/imperfections

No noticeable hydration

Overall I loved this foundation when I first tried it on in store as the color was a perfect match and you couldn’t tell I was wearing makeup; it also felt very light on the face. Fast forward to half an hour later and my face was a patchy, oily mess. Whether I use primer or not, exfoliate the day before or use a setting spray, nothing helps the appearance. It makes my face look like it is peeling. Sadly, this didn’t work out for me but I do think it’s worth a try just to see how it works for you.

Sunday Riley Ceramic Slip Cleanser

Described as a “cleanser purifies the skin, tightens pores, and supports natural collagen and circulation with natural essential oils to tone and balance the skin. It detoxifies, minimizes pore size, and helps you achieve a flawless, ‘ceramic-smooth’complexion.”

Pros

Effectively removes oil

Cons

Pricey

Unpleasant scent

Too drying for my skin

Overall I can’t really find anything good to say about this cleanser except that it does effectively remove oil. My face felt extremely dry and sort of prune-like afterwards and I couldn’t stand the smell. This cleanser contains black pepper and that scent is very prominent here. It doesn’t foam but because it contains clay, this helps draw out sebum from the skin. Definitely not an everyday cleanser so in my opinion, skip this one and save your money.

Have you tried these and received different results? Comment below!

Stephanie

Skin Tip: Relax…It's Good For Your Skin!

September 11, 2015

It’s Friday and my how this week zoomed by!

This weekend, spend some time doing something that relaxes you. Most skin conditions are exacerbated by stress so whether it be reading a good book or going out for a walk, find something that works for you and carve a little bit of time to do it. Your mind, body and skin will thank you.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Stephanie

Make Up For Ever Mattifying Primer Review!

September 10, 2015

Hi everyone! How is everyone holding up with this weather? It’s hot and humid in So Cal with no sign of cooler temperatures yet.

Speaking of heat, I have a review on the Make Up For Ever Step 1 Skin Equalizer Mattifying primer and summer has provided the best weather to put this to the test. Let’s get to it.

Described as, “a makeup primer that assists with balancing the skin’s texture and tone for smoother, more even, and longer-lasting makeup wear. Mattifying Primer reduces shine for oily skin.”

Pros

Travel sized version costing $16 for 0.5 oz

Does have a mattifying effect for a couple of hours

Absorbs quickly into the skin

A little bit goes a long way especially if you only spot treat certain areas

Cons

Pricey with full size costing $36 for 1 oz

It’s best to avoid putting this primer on dry patches

Has a cooling effect that tends to feel tingly when foundation is applied on top

Although it absorbs quickly into skin, I can feel a sort of powdery residue

Didn’t work well with certain foundations/BB creams

Overall: I like the primer but I’m not sure I would purchase it again, mainly because I feel it sensitizes my skin a little bit. When I apply foundation over it, sometimes I feel a tingling/burning sensation. It does help keep oil at bay for a good amount of time, about 4-5 hours when inside and 2-3 hours when I was outside. It won’t leave you completely shine free, especially when you are out in the scorching sun, but I didn’t look as shiny as I normally would. Unless you have very oily skin all over, it’s best to apply a small amount to the T-Zone or wherever you’re oily as it can feel and look drying on the skin. For reference, I have combination skin. I also found that wearing this primer underneath BB creams wasn’t the best choice as my skin looked dry and patchy.

What’s your favorite face primer? Comment below!

Stephanie

Labor Day Fun: TMZ Tour!

September 8, 2015

Happy Tuesday everyone! How was your Labor Day weekend?

Yesterday my cousin and I decided to drive over to Hollywood and take the TMZ Tour. We’ve been to LA a ton of times before but when we read an opportunity to see the hottest spots in Hollywood, the Sunset Strip and Beverly Hills we thought why not? It’s always great to see your city from a different perspective. So, armed with a tour guide direct from TMZ, we set out on this adventure.

A quick picture with our tour guide Leila.

The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel where Marilyn Monroe, Clark Gable and Carole Lombard once resided. It’s also known for hauntings and paranormal activity.

The Chateau Marmont hotel where Sofia Coppola shot her film Somewhere and were Tim Burton and F. Scott Fitzgerald have produced work from inside the hotel.

The music venue on Sunset Blvd, the House of Blues, will be closing its doors and making room for a new luxury hotel.

The Viper Room-a music venue and nightclub that was once partly owned by Johnny Depp and known to be a hangout of the Hollywood elite. This was also the site where actor River Phoenix died of a drug overdose in 1993.

Craig’s on Melrose is one the celebrity restaurant hot spots.

A quick stop in front of The Abbey Food and Bar where a waiter came with a silver patter of chocolate chip cookies.

I didn’t notice it had a TMZ icing scribble until I was looking back at the pictures, haha.

Entering Beverly Hills.

Driving down the luxury shopping, dining and hotel destinations known as Rodeo Drive. You’ll find Brioni, Chanel, Gucci, Harry Winston, Valentino and The House of Bijan (above) to which you need an appointment. Only in Hollywood.

The Gym on Nemo where Channing Tatum works out. Sadly, no sign of Channing yesterday. 🙁

Another celebrity restaurant hot spot, Mr. Chow.

The salon that is home to Jennifer Aniston’s hair stylist. He’s known for creating ‘The Rachel’ haircut and a haircut appointment with him will set you back only $600 plus tip of course.

Sur Lounge, which is owned by Lisa Vanderpump of the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, offers a fresh take on European-Mediterranean dining.

Speaking of Lisa Vanderpump, the tour group spotted her having lunch at The Ivy. Unfortunately, when I took the picture she had just turned around but she’s the brunette right under the umbrella.

The Improv Comedy Club where nearly every big name comedian has played including Billy Crystal, David Letterman, Jerry Seinfeld and Steve Martin.

Fairfax High School that once saw Steven Adler (Guns N’ Roses), Matt Damon, Chanel Iman, Demi Moore and Slash grace its halls.

The last stop was a glimpse of the Hollywood sign.

There was definitely a lot more places we saw such as the Ago restaurant (co-owned by Robert De Niro), the, Osteria Mozzo restaurant (owned by Joe Bastianich and Nancy Silverton and Mario Batali) , the exclusive Soho House West Hollywood, and 1 Oak Nightclub but we either zoomed by or the pictures came out too blurry. Overall, it was a different and unique experience and I enjoyed it. I just wish we had seen more celebs.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this mini picture tour!

Stephanie

Skin Tip For This Labor Day Weekend!

September 4, 2015

It’s Friday and it brings Labor Day weekend with it! Yay! Any fun plans?

Speaking of Labor Day, if you’re planning on firing up the grill this weekend keep this tip in mind. If you happened to get sunburned, the heat generated from the grill can further aggravate an already irritated complexion. Keep some aloe vera gel (and maybe some ibuprofen) handy if this is the case.

Have a great and safe weekend and don’t forget to catch me on Stephanie’s Beauty Corner on Saturday courtesy of the Peachy Queen Blog! Check out some of the latest fall fashion and accessories while you’re at it too! 🙂

Stephanie

My Top 3 ‘No Foundation’ Foundations!

September 3, 2015

Hi everyone!

I’m constantly asked on a regular basis what foundations are the best at not looking like you’re wearing foundation. Having tested multiple brands and formulations over the years, here are my top picks that give me a ‘my skin but better” look.

*Note: A good skincare routine is paramount to achieving the best results but that will be for another post.

Make Up For Ever Face & Body Liquid Makeup

The first Make Up For Ever foundation that I tried and immediately fell in love with. This one has a very watery consistency (thank goodness they have since incorporated a pump) and you don’t need much to cover your face. It feels very light-weight and isn’t too glowy or matte and can be used to cover up body imperfections. True story: My grandmother loved how this looked on me that she had me go buy her one and she has been an avid user ever since.

Unfortunately, I think this had an ingredient my skin might have not agreed with because over time my nose would start to itch so I stopped using it. Despite this, I highly recommend it.

Perricone MD No Foundation Foundation Serum

I picked this up when Sephora had their Fall VIB sale last year and after using up a sample. As the name implies, this has a serum-like consistency and gives a nice satin finish. I prefer to apply this using my fingers to pat and roll it in the skin but you can also use a brush and achieve results. Super light-weight as I forget sometimes I have it on and hold up nicely throughout the day. My only complaint is that the shade range is very limited.

Too Faced Tinted Beauty Balm

While I know this isn’t a foundation, I do think tinted moisturizers, BB creams and CC creams are some of the best products to use for achieving a natural look. They tend to cover up redness and even out skin tone and work best if you don’t have major imperfections. Since it has the texture of a moisturizer it’s really impossible for it to give a cakey appearance. My favorite way to apply these is with a sponge and stippling it into the skin. Favorites include Too Faced Tinted Beauty Balm, Laura Mercier and Marcelle BB Cream.

What are your favorite foundations to use for a natural look?

Stephanie

August Favorites 2015!

September 1, 2015

Happy September 1st everyone! I can’t believe how fast last month zoomed by, which brings me to share with you things I’ve loved this past August.

Let’s get to it!

Estee Lauder Pure Color Envy Sculpting Lipstick in Potent

My first Estee Lauder lipstick purchase and the credit goes to Cos from The World of Cos. 🙂 I love a great creamy lipstick and this one is perfect for everyday, a night out-virtually any occasion. It’s a light pink coral nude that glides on nicely over exfoliated lips and has good pigmentation. I’m not a fan of the scent, which I’m not sure how to describe, but once you apply it, the smell disappears. Pairing it with a lip pencil underneath extends its wear time.

Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-In-Place Lip Pencil in Nude

It’s been a while since I used a lip liner but I am happy I picked this up along with the lipstick. The shade Nude is a MLBB (my lips but better) and pairs well with a lot of neutral/pink lipsticks I own. While I don’t agree with the creamy consistency claim, it applies nicely and really extends the wear of lipstick. A lip brush is included on the opposite side of the pencil which is a nice addition and a magnetic cap.

Tresemme Keratin Smooth Flat Iron Smoothing Spray

I’m not a fan of Tresemme hair care products but this keratin infused heat protection spray is the exception. I love using this when I straighten my hair as it facilitates the straightening process and smooths hair without making it feel greasy. The style holds up very well and this product doesn’t make your hair smell burned when heat is used.

Below are swatches of the lipstick, lip liner and CC Cream.

A picture of me wearing the lipstick and lip pencil plus my hair after using the Tresemme spray.

Supergoop Daily Correct CC Cream SPF 35

A sample that came in my August Birchbox, this CC Cream, housed in a convenient squeeze tube, provided good coverage without the heavy feel. It evens out my redness while allowing skin to look like skin.

In the Unlikely Event by Judy Blume

A book that came in June’s PopSugar Must Have Box, In the Unlikely Event was a great summer read that was based one real life events. The book is set in Elizabeth, New Jersey in the 1950s and follows a young woman’s memorable journey in the aftermath of multiple plane crashes in her hometown. I was impressed at how well Judy Blume was able depict the emotions of all the characters who make up and tell the story- her writing manages to convincingly transport you back to the 1950s and experience the tragedy that occurred, offering multiple view points from different age groups and characters that feel so real. It made me feel nostalgic for a time period I didn’t even experience.

What are you favorite August items?

Stephanie