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Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre Review!

March 3, 2016

Hello everyone! I hope all of you are doing well. 🙂

Today I have a review on the Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentrate. This moisturizer is praised by celebrity make-up artists and considered a staple in their arsenal so naturally I was curious to try it. Let’s take a look at what I think.

Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentrate

Described as, “a wonderful care product-a real beauty secret, favoured by dermatologists for decades; a combination of ingredients of natural origin with recognised virtues, rich in essential fatty acids and vitamins. The Lait-Creme Concentrate can also be used to cleanse the skin or remove makeup, as a repairing mask, an after-shave cream or as a baby-care product.”

Pros

Formulated without parabens, sulfates or phthalates (if these ingredients concern you)

Cruelty-free

Multi-tasking product

Light-weight feel

Absorbs quickly

Smooth makeup application

Tube form makes this hygienic and easy to apply

Cons

A bit on the pricey side- $28

Can sometimes pill when used in conjunction with a sunscreen

Not for all skin types

Contains beeswax, so take heed if you are allergic

Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil) is the second ingredient and may clog pores

Overall: I like this product but wasn’t overly impressed with it. I love how it provided a light-weight feel and absorbed quickly into the skin; it also helped the makeup glide on smoothly though it doesn’t help blur out imperfections like other primers. Although it claims intense hydration, my face still felt a little tight on the drier parts of my skin. If I used this in the morning with sunscreen, I noticed that it pilled. Also, even though it states that all skin types can benefit from this, the inclusion of mineral oil as the second ingredient may be problematic for acneic skin; however, as a makeup remover, it works nicely. I will use this product up but I am not sure if I will repurchase again.

Have a favorite multi-tasking product you love? Share it in the comments!

Stephanie

February Favorites 2016!

March 1, 2016

Happy first day of March everyone! Another month has zoomed by and of course, as one month ends, my monthly favorites are bound to ensue. Let’s get to it! 🙂

Caudalie Hand and Nail Cream

One of my all time favorite hand-creams, this grape-seed oil cream that is rich in antioxidants and smells like oranges. It moisturizes and absorbs quickly into the skin which is great when you’re in a hurry and don’t want to transfer the lotion onto surfaces.

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Bourbon

I’ve used this glimmering dark brown eyeliner practically everyday this month and it gives definition to your eyes without it looking to harsh. Perfect for work and it lasts all day on me.

Bobbi Brown Blush in Pretty Coral

Sorting through my blush stash, I rediscovered this gem which is a great everyday shade that gives the ‘pretty in pink’ phrase a run for its money. Used this look as part of my Valentine’s Day makeup look.

(Malin + Goetz) Grapefruit Face Cleanser

I received this sample in my November Birchbox and I just got around to trying it. This cleanser really surprised me to be honest. It feels refreshing but gentle and that has a subtle citrus scent. Left my skin clean without feeling stripped.

Kiehl’s Creme de Corps

After buying a gift at Kiehl’s, I was given samples of this body cream and I loved it so much that I went out to purchase a bottle. It’s a very creamy and rich and while it absorbs nicely into the skin, I do find that it is a bit greasy. I prefer to use this at night after I take a shower to deeply moisturize my skin and the scent is neutral so it’s not overpowering at all. The only two issues are a) it’s pricey and b) it’s sometimes difficult to get the product out.

Tell me, what were your favorites this month?

Stephanie

Valentine's Day Beauty Collaboration 2016!

February 9, 2016

Happy Tuesday readers! Valentine’s Day is this weekend so I am collaborating with my friend Cos from The World of Cos to bring you makeup and nail inspiration for this Sunday! I decided to stick with pink/bronze tones for the eyes and red lips for makeup. Keep reading if you want to know how to get this look and I’ll also be posting the nail inspiration from nail guru Cos. 🙂

Get the Look

Foundation: Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick in Natural Tan (4.25)

Concealer: Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer in Vanilla

Eyeshadow: MAC Eyeshadows

Highlight: Shroom

Lid: Pink Venus

Crease: Texture

Mid/Outer Lid: Bronze

Directions: Apply Pink Venus on the lid and Bronze on the mid and outer lids. Use Texture on the crease and to blend out Bronze on the mid and outer V. Use Shroom as the highlight shade beneath the brows and just above the crease color.

Eyeliner: Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner in Steel Ink on the top lashline and Urban Decay 24/7 Velvet Glide-On Eye Pencil in Bourbon on the waterline.

Mascara: Benefit Roller Lash Mascara

Contour: Clinique Chubby Stick Sculpting Contour

Blush: Bobbi Brown Blush in Pretty Coral

Lips: Besame Cosmetics Classic Color Lipstick in Red Velvet 1946

Here’s a little nail inspiration from Cos and don’t forget to check out and follow her Instagram for more nail and beauty inspiration!

I hope you enjoyed this collaboration and a special thanks to Cos for asking me to collaborate with her once again. 🙂

What are your Valentine’s Day picks?

Stephanie

Best of Beauty 2105 Part II: Skincare and Hair Products!

January 7, 2016

Welcome back to part II of my Best of Beauty 2015 segment where I’ll be covering skincare and hair products I’ve enjoyed throughout the year. Let’s get to it. 🙂

Skincare

Cleanser

Monarch Beauty Herbal Milky Cleanser

Love using this creamy cleanser when my skin is dry and it also doubles as a makeup remover.

Renee Rouleau Purifying Face Wash

This unscented cleanser deep cleans skin without leaving skin stripped of moisture and will last you a long time.

Toner

Monarch Beauty Transforming Toner

A soothing mist integrating green tea and chamomile that helps calm skin and restore skin’s pH levels.

Rhonda Allison Cucumber Spritz

A light toner that is perfect to take on the go to refresh and hydrate skin.

Facial Moisturizer

Skin Script Cacteen Balancing Moisturizer

This medium-weight moisturizer contains prickly pear cactus to help heal and is rich on olive oil fatty acids that help retain moisture in the skin.

HydroPeptide Power Lift Advanced Ultra-Rich Moisturizer

When my skin needs a little bit of extra moisture, this one is perfect to use as the thicker consistency glides on skin without making me breakout.

Eye Cream

SkinMedica TNS Eye Repair

The fast absorbing and light texture makes this easy to work with plus the blend of peptides, retinol and vitamin C and E help firm, brighten and smooth the eye area.

Renee Rouleau Total Eye Repair

Another fast-absorbing eye cream that contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate skin and works very well under makeup and concealer.

Exfoliator

Kate Somerville Exfolikate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment

One of my favorite go-to exfoliators, this contains several acids and enzymes to exfoliate skin while cinnamon helps blood circulation.

Sunscreen

Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF 50

This product streamlines my morning skincare routine as it’s a moisturizer and sunscreen in 1.

Mask

Dermalogica Sebum Clearing Masque

Perfect for spot treating, this has kaolin and bentonite clays to this soak up extra oil and salicylic acid to treat breakouts.

Body Moisturizers

Skinfix Ultra Rich Body Butter

An unscented moisturizer that absorbs quickly and allows you to customize it with your favorite essential oil.

Lush Cosmetics Charity Pot

Another great moisturizer that helps lock in moisture and the ylang ylang cocoa butter scent is soothing.

Hair

Shampoo

Acure Organics Repairing Shampoo Moroccan Argan Stem Oil + Argan Oil

I received a sample of this in a Target Beauty Box and I really liked how it cleans hair without taking away too much moisture-crucial for curly hair!

Tessa Water Colors Shampoo in Molten Bronze

Love using this color depositing shampoo about every week or so to help refresh my hair color.

Conditioner

Nelson J Beverly Hills Argan Oil 7 Moisture Healing Mask

This hair mask helps smooth out the frizz factor from my curly hair and makes detangling easy.

Dry Shampoo

Bumble and bumble Pret a Powder

This travel sized option quickly blends into the hair, absorbing any excess oil.

Klorane Extra Gentle Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk

Fairly unscented, this also helps absorb extra oil in hair without leaving behind a white residue.

Shine Spray

Dry Bar Sparkling Soda Shine Mist

Adding shine to hair is very easy with this portable spray and it leaves hair smelling amazing.

Heat Protectant

Treseme Keratin Smooth Flat Iron Smoothing Spray

The best affordable heat protectant spray that makes straightening my hair easier and leaves it smooth and shiny.

Are any of these your favorites too? Let me know in the comments below!

Stephanie

November Birchbox Unboxing 2015!

November 17, 2015

Hi everyone! How was your weekend? I managed to pick up a few items at Sephora plus I have some on their way so I will post on that later. I’ve also been battling a low grade fever so I’m a bit behind on comments/social media but I will get back to you. 🙂

Birchbox came in over the weekend so here’s a glance on what was included.

Malin + Goetz Grapefruit Face Cleanser and Vitamin E Face Moisturizer (sample)

This cleanser is said to help clear up breakouts and balance skins natural pH;the moisturizer has hyaluronic acid and vitamin E to nourish skin. I haven’t had a chance to try these two yet.

LOC Vibrant Matte Lipstick in First Kiss

Birchbox has a new in-house brand called LOC. This month’s sample I choose was a lipstick that was curated by YouTube beauty star Tati Westbrook. It’s a matte pinky beige color that is so pretty but unfortunately doesn’t last long and definitely needs to be paired with lip balm or lipgloss so it doesn’t dry out lips.

LOC First Kiss

Montale Dark Purple

This fragrance sample has “notes of rose petals, geranium bourbon, and patchouli [that] sit on a woodsy base of gray amber, teak wood and white musk.” It smells a lot like berries and while I do like it, it’s not unique enough that would compel me to purchase the full size.

Parlor by Jeff Chastain Touchable Curl Cream

An “innovative formula [that] combines the siky texture of a serum with the light hold of a cream.” Another item I have yet to try but I do find that I always need to layer hair products with these type of creams to really hold my curls in place and prevent frizz.

The Beauty Crop Lighting Crew Highlighting Cream

I had seen this in other bloggers’ pages and I was excited when I discovered this was included. It smells like pineapple, (yum!) and really does add a glow so a little dab will go a long way. It can also be mixed with body lotion to give your body a festive and luminous glow. Note: Make sure to blend this quickly when you use it.

The Beauty Crop Highlighting Cream

Overall, this box was okay. I wish the lipstick was formulated as more moisturizing but the highlighting cream was a great choice and made this box.

What are your thoughts on this box?

Stephanie

Kat Von D Lolita vs NYX Soft-Spoken!

November 10, 2015

KVD vs NYX

Hi readers! How was your weekend?

Liquid lipsticks have taken center stage and today I am comparing NYX’s Soft Spoken, which is a pretty spot on dupe for Kat Von D’s Lolita. Take a look!

Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick in Lolita

Pros

Long-lasting

Minimal dry down time

Applies evenly

Color can work well for a variety of skin tones

Excellent color payoff

Cons

Pricey at $20

Accentuates fine lines

Overall: I really do love this shade but I’ve found that other shades from this same line don’t work so well for me. The application feels creamy and you get opaque color in one swipe. I find this fades pretty evenly and I have a bit of a stain left over even after eating and drinking. Exfoliating is a must beforehand but it’s worth the money.

NYX Liquid Suede Cream Lipstick in Soft-Spoken

Pros

Budget friendly at $7

Applies evenly

Great color payoff

Good wear time

Color can work well for a variety of skin tones

Cons

Slow dry down time

Accentuates fine lines

Semi-tacky feeling

Overall: This is a good inexpensive alternative to KVD’s Lolita. It has great color payoff in one swipe and applies evenly. Application feels velvety but then turns into a tacky feeling that never quite goes away. I’m assuming this is the reason why it’s not that long lasting. Exfoliating lips beforehand is a must and I find applying a bit of balm underneath makes

Top to Bottom: Lolita and Soft-Spoken

Swatches from both lip shades. As you can see they are almost identical. Kat Von D is a bit darker with a little more brown.

Have you tried these? Which is your favorite?

Stephanie

Sephora Favorites Give Me Some Lip 2015 Review!

November 5, 2015

Hi everyone! I won this lip set from a giveaway hosted by the lovely Cat Forsley from My Lip Addiction and as you can imagine, I was thrilled. So in time for the Sephora VIB sale, here’s the breakdown of the set along with my review.

This limited edition set comes with six deluxe-size lip products, though the Tarte lipstick looks to be full size, and retails for $25.

Sephora Collection Rouge Infusion The Neutrals in 19-Peony

This dark pink shade is gorgeous and has good staying power unless you’re eating or drinking. It fades somewhat evenly though you’ll find you have to reapply so that it looks even. It feels glossy at first but dries to a matte finish.

Tarte Amazonian Butter Lipstick in Coral Blossom

A nice bright and somewhat sheer coral color with a slight peppermint scent. Personally, I love lipsticks that are creamy and moisturizing and this one fits the bill. The lasting power is not long, maybe 2 hours, but I don’t mind. As the name implies, these glide on like butter and feel comfortable.

Fresh Sugar Rose Tinted Lip Treatment

You gotta love two in one products. This hydrating lip balm has a rosy tint that gives you a polished look with minimal effort. It also has sunscreen so that’s always a bonus.

Marc Jacobs Le Marc Lip Crème in Je T’Aime

My first Marc Jacobs lipstick and I have to say I do like this one. The description states it’s ultra hydrating but I disagree. It’s not super hydrating but not matte either so I would say satin. The color is a beautiful rum raspberry that will last around 3-4 hours. Exfoliating lips is a must with this one but if you’re looking for the perfect shade for the holidays, I highly recommend this.

Make Up For Ever Artist Plexi Gloss 202 Sweet Pink

I was excited that this lipgloss was included in this set and was the first one I tried out. Although the sheer pink color is pretty and the full pouted effect and shine it gives is amazing, the formula on this is super thick and sticky-not comfortable or appealing at all. The applicator has a slit to allow precise application but I feel it’s more marketing than useful. Overall, I wouldn’t shell out money for this lipgloss.

Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick in Lolita

The hype surrounding this gorgeous chestnut rose shade is real and warranted. After my unfortunate experience with this line shade in Outlaw, this shade is a dream and the staying power is great. It lasted all most all day, even after eating. Although it does begin to fade, it leaves behind a nice stain. I apply a bit of balm underneath, although the formula doesn’t feel too drying, and make sure to exfoliate lips beforehand.

L-R: Peony, Coral Blossom, Rose Tint, Je T’Aime, 202, Lolita

I hope you found this post helpful. 🙂

Have you tried any of these? What are your thoughts?

Stephanie

October Favorites 2015!

October 29, 2015

Hi everyone! With October ending this week, I’m sharing products I’ve been using religiously this month. Let’s get to it!

Nest Fragrances Moroccan Amber Candle

Nordstrom just opened up locally and when I saw they carried Nest Candles in store, I knew I had to pick this up. With exotic notes of Moroccan Amber, Star Anise, Sweet Patchouli, Bergamot and Eucalyptus, this candle is just what you need to create a zen environment.

NYX Butter Gloss in Strawberry Parfait

I received this NYX Butter Gloss in a Target Beauty Box and I must say it was love at first swipe. It’s described as a fuchsia but has a sheer finish that on my lips looks natural with a slight tinge of pink. Great for everyday minimal looks or to top off lipsticks without competing with the shade underneath.

Renee Rouleau Skin Drink

I had a chemical peel about 2 weeks ago and this was instrumental in keeping my skin hydrated. It’s an oil-free, water based serum of hyaluronic acid that helps attract and retain moisture in your skin. Perfect for my combination skin as it delivers hydration without making me breakout.

Burberry Beauty ‘Light Glow’ Natural Blush in Earthy

I know I’ve mentioned this blush before but it’s for good reason. It’s an absolute staple in my makeup arsenal because it is versatile and is a joy to use with its smooth and buttery consistency. Pairs well with natural or vampy fall looks. You need this blush. Trust.

Swatches of the NYX Butter Gloss and Burberry Beauty Blush

What are your favorites this month?

Stephanie

Too Faced Brow Envy Kit Review!

October 27, 2015

Happy Tuesday everyone! I hope you all had a good weekend. 🙂 Can you believe we’re that much closer to a new month? Crazy.

I finally have the review for the Too Faced Brow envy Brow Shaping and Defining Kit so let’s get started.

Description: ” Be envied for your perfect brows with Brow Envy, Too Faced’s fool-proof kit that will have you arches, defined and framed like a star.”

The kit comes housed in a black compact, complete with a mirror, setting wax, a cream highlight shade, brow powder duos, tweezers, a spooley, brush and angled brush.

A close up picture. The bottom left powder is Blonde while the bottom right powder is brunette.

Also included in this kit are three eyebrow stencils and a Glamour Guide detailing how to use the kit.

Top to Bottom: Setting Wax, Highlight, Brunette and Blond

Swatches of the shades. You can’t really see the setting wax too well because it’s clear but it’s sitting on top of the pale pink highlight shade.

Pros

A complete set

Good for brow maintenance/touch ups

Duo powder shades allows you to customize a shade

Small tweezers are great for grabbing tiny hairs

Good for traveling

Cons

Cream products make the kit messier

Stencils may not work for everyone’s eyebrow shape

Not versatile enough for every brow or hair color

Overall: I really do like this kit and it has pretty much all of the necessary tools to keep your eyebrows shaped and defined. Personally, I would have preferred a powder highlight instead of a cream one just because I feel I can control it better. Also, the stencils won’t be used because a) they don’t fit my eyebrow shape and b) my eyebrows are pretty wild so I have to get them threaded about every month. The eyebrow brush is a little stiffer than I would like but it’s not a deal breaker. I would recommend this kit to anyone who has dark eyebrows but if you’re looking for lighter shades, Anastasia has a really great selection of powder duos as well.

A picture of me over the weekend using this brow kit.

What’s your favorite product to keep your brows on point?

Stephanie

The Ultimate Urban Decay Naked Fall Looks Collaboration!

October 7, 2015

Happy Wednesday everyone! I’m very excited today to bring you a special collaborative post featuring a few of my favorite bloggers. We’re taking the Urban Decay Naked palettes and coming up with makeup looks that are perfect for fall. Grab your Naked 3 to create my look and check out the looks of these amazing bloggers using the other Naked palettes: Janet from Jan and Jot, Jennifer from In the Beauty Box, Kaily from Hello Kaily and Karen from Confetti and Curves.

Get the Look

Foundation: Lancome Teint Miracle in Buff 4C

Concealer: Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer in Vanilla

Eyeshadow:

Highlight: Strange

Lid: Limit

Crease: Limit/Nooner

Mid/Outer Lid: Nooner

Lower Lashline: Darkside

Directions: Apply Limit on the lid and Nooner on the mid and outer lids. Use Limit on the crease and to blend out Nooner on the mid and outer V. Use Strange as the highlight shade beneath the brows and just above the crease color. Take a pencil brush and apply Darkside to the lower lashline.

Eyeliner: MAC Fluidline Eyeliner Gel in Dipdown on the top lashline and Urban Decay 24/7 Velvet Glide-On Eye Pencil in Ransom on the waterline, over Darkside (bottom lashline)

Mascara: Dior Diorshow Mascara in Pro Black

Blush: Burberry Light Glow Earthy Blush No. 7

Lips: Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-In-Place Lip Pencil in Nude and Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in Birkin Brown

The finished look! I hope you enjoyed this segment and please don’t forget to check out all of the other bloggers I listed up above as they have more great looks headed your way. 🙂

Stephanie