Product Review- Pixi Lash Booster Mascara

Pixi Lash Booster Mascara Review


From the Brand: 
What it is formulated to do:
This unique mascara truly boosts your lashes, giving them a "push-up" effect that lasts all day. The dense, rich formula ensures that lashes are coated with maximum pigment, for long-lasting full colour. The cone-shaped brush coats each lash evenly for the ultimate smudge-free, waterproof lash and eye definition. Available in intense eye-opening shades, including the revolutionary "blackest blue" that awakens the eyes and makes the whites of the eyes appear whiter.

Beneficial ingredients and what they do:

• Vitamin E nourishes skin Carnauba wax is naturally emollient
• Microcrystalline wax nourishes and ensures easy application
• Simethicone provides a smooth glide

Retails for:  $17.00


Where to Buy: Select Target stores, online at Pixibeauty.com


My Thoughts:  As much as I love the rest of the Pixi line, I have to say that I really don't like this mascara at all.  I wouldn't go so far as to say hate, but it comes close.  I wore this a few different times, and the mascara just got all mushy and smudgy so quickly I couldn't wait to take it off.  I thought maybe it was the humidity when I initially tried it over the summer, so I also did a test run where I didn't leave the house all day and stayed in the air conditioning.  Same results.  It quickly turned from ok to crappy within an hour.  I've never had a mascara melt off my eyelashes like that.

I've since tried it again on cooler drier days in the fall with the same results.  I'm hoping that this little trial size that came with a monthly beauty subscription box (I'm pretty sure it as an IPSY bag) was just a dud and had gone bad or something.  Although, it didn't look bad or smell bad.  It was almost as bad as my experience with the mark. Scandalash mascara I tried last spring.  You can read about that train wreck here.

Even if it was a bad tube, I'm a little leery of buying a full size for full price to try it again.  The wand itself did a decent job of giving me some volume and separation, and for the first hour or so my lashes looked really good.  If I get another one somewhere down the line, I'll be happy to give it another go.  This tube though however just ruined the idea of it for me.


Final Verdict:  Needless to say, this wasn't a favorite of mine.

Product Review- Benefit Bella Bamba Blush

Benefit Bella Bamaba Blush Review


From the Brand:
Amplify cheekbones and create the illusion of sculpted features with this 3D watermelon blush. Laced with shimmering gold undertones, bella bamba takes eye-popping pretty to the third dimension...you'll never use traditional blush again!

Retails for:  $28.00


Where to Buy:  Sephora.com and stores, Ulta.com and stores, Benefitcosmetics.com and Benefit counters at select department stores


My Thoughts:  Can you believe this is the very first blush I’ve ever used from Benefit?  It feels like I’ve tried every single other product they make except their blushes, and I only got this one because it was included in a set.  I’m very very glad that it was though, as I’m praying I find a few Sephora gift cards in my stocking this year so I can rush out and buy a few more colors!  This stuff is the bee’s knees I tell ya!

I think they nailed it with the color personally.  This is the perfect combination of a flushed pink and a warm coral all in one.  It’s richly pigmented with just a touch of shimmer, so a little goes a long way.  Seriously, I just tap my brush in once and apply.  That’s all you need.  It’s bright enough that I think it’d be gorgeous on even deeper skintones, but it’s soft enough that it’s not harsh at all on my fair skin.  I’ve worn this most of the month of November and so far in December, too.  If I’d done a favorites post for November like I’d planned (and yet again, life has gotten in the way of this blogging hobby of mine) this blush would totally have been first pick.

Benefit’s got the most adorable packaging, and their blushes are no different.  I love that it comes in such a cute box!  Very different from any other blushes on the market, and that alone sets it apart from its competitors.  I think the brush that comes with it is a complete waste, but that’s how I feel on every single brush that comes with blushes.  Maybe it’s to cut down on buying another brush, but in my opinion if you’re forking over the cash for a blush from Benefit, you’re probably going to have a wardrobe of makeup brushes, too. 

Final Verdict:  Replacing Nars Orgasm  as my new perfect peachy pink!

**Disclaimer: As with all my product reviews, I was not paid by the cosmetic company to provide feedback or review/promote their products. All the opinions expressed in this article are my own. These items were purchased with my own money. For more information on my policies, please view my Let's Chat page.

Product Review- Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel

Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel Review


From the Brand:  Our Best Selling Daily Cleanser. This non-foaming, gel cleanser thoroughly removes the day’s make-up, dirt and oil without drying the skin. Papaya and Grapefruit Extracts are exfoliating Alpha Hydroxy Acids that help prevent dulling build-up that can cause blackheads and pimples.


Retails for:  $12.00 for 1 oz


Where to Buy:  Mariobadescu.com, Ulta stores


My Thoughts:  If you have sensitive skin and want a product that you can use daily to help keep your pores clear and the surface of your skin gently exfoliated without harsh chemicals or scratchy exfoliants, this is a great option for you!  It uses very mild alpha hydroxyl acids to exfoliate the skin gently enough to use not only daily but twice a day.  The slightly shimmery green liquid face wash is non-foaming and smells like a fresh garden.  I love to just spread it over my face and inhale deeply.  It releases some sort of zen-like state at the end of my day, and I can close my eyes and just relax for a few moments while it does it’s thing.

Since it’s a non-foaming face cleanser, I love using it on my Clairsonic Mia face brush to really deeply exfoliate and cleanse my pores.  I hate using a foaming face wash with spinning or vibrating or whatever brushes.  I’m always afraid it’s going to fling some little sud into my eye and I’ll end up blind.  But this works perfectly with no mess and no worries.

I used this every single day for about a month, and then I noticed that my skin in my t-zone was getting super dried out and flakey.  I assumed I’d been loading up on the acne products like tea tree oil and salicylic acid, but there was a sneaking suspicion that it was the cleanser instead.  So, I stopped using this cleanser for the past week, and those dry patches have gone away.  The weather has also gotten much colder and drier, and we’ve been running the heat in the house the past month as well.  I think that the combination of everything was just too much for my face to handle, so I’ll be backing off on this and using it only a few times a week for right now to see how that goes.  The brush is exfoliating enough on its own that a daily acid wash shouldn’t be too necessary during the winter.

Final Verdict:  Delicious scent, pore-clearing, gentle on sensitive skin.  To be used with discretion as it may cause overdrying if used too frequently during the drier months.

**Disclaimer: As with all my product reviews, I was not paid by the cosmetic company to provide feedback or review/promote their products. All the opinions expressed in this article are my own. These items were purchased with my own money. For more information on my policies, please view my Let's Chat page.

Product Review- Perlier Imperial Honey Body Cream Review

Perlier Imperial Honey Body Cream Review

From the Brand:  Luxuriate in pure bliss. Perlier's imported beauty treatment makes you feel like you've spent the day at the spa!



Retails for:  $40.00


Where to Buy:  HSN.com


My Thoughts:  I was really looking forward to trying this product based on the product description of the imperial honey line I'd read online.  (The description on this particular product is painfully absent of any real information though.)  However, I was really put off by the smell of this body cream.  It was like dunking your head into a bucket of honey.  I think even Winnie the Poo would have thought it was a bit much.  When you hear that a body cream has honey in it, you think it's going to be a light slightly sweet scent but nothing too overpowering, right?  That's at least what I was thinking.

The benefits of honey aren't to be discounted, as it's been a highly praised ingredient in skin care for centuries.  I'd just rather know it was in there rather than feeling like that's the only thing I'd slathered across my body.  For experimentation's sake to write this review, I did use it all over after a shower and forced myself to wear it all day despite my aversion to the scent.

Thankfully, it did deeply hydrate my parched skin, and it absorbed without a sticky feeling at all.  I think that if I'd ended up feeling all sticky and gross afterwards, I'd have had to take another shower.  The scent either faded within the hour, or maybe my nose just gave up trying to deal with it and I got used to it.  I did have a few people ask me what perfume I was wearing, so at least it may just be me that couldn't stand the scent.


Final Verdict:  I hate that I keep hammering on about the smell of the product, but that's the thing that stuck with me the most and makes me give this particular product a thumbs down.  If you like the smell of honey however (which I very obviously do NOT), you'll probably be very very satisfied with the hydration level of this body cream and enjoy the fragrance. That is, if you're up for plunking down $40 for a jar of body cream not too much larger than you can find at The Body Shop for less than half that.

**Disclaimer: As with all my product reviews, I was not paid by the cosmetic company to provide feedback or review/promote their products. This article contains some affiliate links provided through Viglink.com. All the opinions expressed in this article are my own. These items were sent to me for consideration through iFabbo. For more information on my policies, please view my Let's Chat page.

Smashbox Full Exposure Palette Review

 Smashbox Full Exposure Palette Review



From the Brand:   
What it is:
A set of universally awesome neutrals that’s essential, effortless, and enhanced for your eye shape.

What it does:
This totally versatile palette is organized with crease-resistant, long-wearing shimmers in the top row and velvety smooth mattes along the bottom. Fourteen essential neutral shades include a range of nudes, blacks, shimmers, and mattes. Use the brilliant eye shape chart, dual-ended brush, and Full Exposure Mascara to complete any look.

This set contains:
- 0.035 oz x 7 eye shadow in shimmer shades (top row): Chocolate Brown with Golden Pearl, Deep Golden Brown with Gold Pearl, Soft Gold with Gold and Silver Pearl, Light Tan with Gold and Silver Pearl, Golden Wheat with Gold Pearl, Midtone Slate with Silver Pearl, Rich Grey with Multicolor and Silver Pearl
- 0.035 oz x 7 eye shadow in matte shades (bottom row): Matte Warm Chocolate Brown, Matte Midtone Brown, Soft Matte Midtone Tan, Creamy Matte Beige, Soft Light Taupe, Ashy Dark Brown, Suede Black
- 0.14 oz Full Exposure Mascara deluxe sample
- Get-the-look eye shape chart

What else you need to know:
Smashbox has taken the guesswork out of application with a cool, new dual-ended brush. There’s a fluffy end perfect for blending matte shades and a flat end to easily lay down the shimmer shades without sparkle overload. Plus, it’s double-sided with black bristles on one side and white on the other, so you’ll never accidentally dip a light shade into a dark shade.


Retails for:  $49.00


Where to Buy:  Sephora stores and Sephora.com, Ulta stores and Ulta.com


My Thoughts:  If you’ve read my review of the Lorac PRO Palette, you’ll know I’m a huge fan of palettes that have coordinating matte and shimmer shadows.  For each shade from soft nude to deep smokey, you get a matte version and a shimmer version in their amazingly pigmented eyeshadow formula.  I love this palette so much it’s joining my Lorac one in my professional kit.  (I’ll be popping off the heavy mirror though to cut down on weight.)  Not only do you get both matte and shimmer of each shade, the left half of the palette is more warm yellow based browns, and the right half is more cool grey based browns and a black, so no matter how you like to do your nude makeup, there’s a perfect shade for your style.

The formula of these shadows is super soft with very little fallout.  However, on first application with it I did find that the mattes are a bit dry looking on the skin and can get a little muddy when blended together.  I’d recommend using at least one of the shimmery shades with the mattes so that you aren’t looking very dated in your look.  In my video review, I’ll show you the shades I used to create the look I’m wearing.

The staying power is fantastic.  Over a primer, you’ll easily get 15 hours or more.  It also comes with a travel size Full Exposure mascara to complete the look.  I love to use the deep matte black shadow pressed over a black pencil liner to give it ultimate staying power and to soften it up a bit for a sexy look.

The highlight of this set is that it comes with a great dual ended shadow brush to give you a variety of looks.  This little baby is staying with me though!  I’ll have to slip a brush guard over one end to store it in my brush cup on the bathroom counter, but it’ll be a huge travel friendly space-saver come Christmas time when we go home to Florida for the holidays.


Final Verdict:  Great palette at a great price.  Very versatile, and cuts down on products when you travel!

**Disclaimer: As with all my product reviews, I was not paid by the cosmetic company to provide feedback or review/promote their products. All the opinions expressed in this article are my own. These items were purchased with my own money. For more information on my policies, please view my Let's Chat page.

Holidays 2013- Too Faced A Few of My Favorite Things Gift Set

Too Faced A Few Of My Favorite Things Gift Set


From the Brand:  What it is: A 28-piece set handpicked by Too Faced Co-founder and Creative Director Jerrod Blandino. What it does: This Sephora exclusive features Jerrod's iconic favorites for the eyes, face, cheeks, and lips and will make your holidays gorgeous. This collection is infused with classic colors that have a playful edge-shades that fit right in for a super swanky blowout or an intimate Christmas day brunch with the family. After hours, zip-up your essentials in Too Faced's signature chevron-print clutch, designed by celebrity decorator and TV personality Mary McDonald.

This set contains: - 1.2 oz x 20 Eye Shadow in Snowflakes, Whiskers on Kittens, Chocolate Milk, Moon on their Wings, Dark Chocolate, Cream Colored Ponies, Honey Honey, Busch de Noel, Evergreen, Blue Satin Sashes, Coquet, Taffy, Crisp Apple Strudel, Woolen Mittens, Soirée, Tinsel, Bluff, Ooh La Orchid, Party Time, Pure Glam - 0.28 oz x 2 Blush in Raindrops on Roses, Melt into Spring - 0.28 oz x 2 Bronzer in Sun Bunny, Chocolalte Soleil - 0.1 oz Lip Injection Color Bomb! in Bee Sting - 0.17 oz Better Than Sex Mascara in Carbon Black - Chevron clutch - How-To Glamour Guide What it is formulated WITHOUT: - Parabens - Sulfates - Phthalates


Retails for:  $59 (original price)


Where to Buy:  I know I got this from Sephora.com, but now that I'm ready to publish my review I can't find this collection anywhere other than Amazon.com where it's going for $95.00.  If you can get your hands on one of these, grab it!


My Thoughts:  I am so incredibly thankful that I found this and bought it when I did rather than hoping I'd get a gift card to Sephora in my stocking and trying to find it later!  I can't believe that it's sold out everywhere!  I can see why though, as this is one of the absolute best palettes I've purchased from  Too Faced.  I buy at least one mega palette like this every year, and I love the versatility of the sets.  They almost always come with the decadent matte bronzer Chocolate Soleil along with the Sunny Bunny bronzers with a shimmer and a pink and peach blush.

The eyeshadows in this are super pigmented, creamy, and are the perfect mix of mattes and shimmers plus neutrals and brights.  There's literally a little something for everyone in this set.  It also comes with Better Than Sex Mascara and a lip plumping Lip Injection Color Bomb in the perfect nude color.

For more on this amazing gift set, check out my YouTube review!




Final Verdict:  If you can find one, snatch that up before it's gone for good!  When they said Limited Edition, the emphasis was on LIMITED!

**Disclaimer: As with all my product reviews, I was not paid by the cosmetic company to provide feedback or review/promote their products. This article contains some affiliate links provided through Viglink.com. All the opinions expressed in this article are my own. These items were purchased with my own money. For more information on my policies, please view my Let's Chat page.

Product Review- Murad Brightening Kit

Murad Essential C Line Review


From the Brand:
Step 1- Murad Essential-C Cleanser- Neutralizes environmental aggressors, restores moisture and prepares skin for repair.

Primary benefits:Removes impurities and potential irritants. Binds moisture to skin.

Step 2- Murad Rapid Age Spot and Pigment Lightening Serum- Clinically proven to restore clarity and even skin tone.

Primary benefits:
Reduces the appearance of sun spots and age spots by 33% in 1 week.* Helps prevent the development of new pigmentation.

Step 3- Murad Active Radiance Serum- Renews skin for a smoother, more youthful complexion.

Primary benefits:
Improves brightness, clarity and radiance by 60% in less than one week*.

Step 4- Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++- Powerful antioxidant-rich sunscreen shields and restores environmentally stressed skin.

Primary benefits: Blocks UVA/UVB rays to prevent sun and free radical damage. Improves skin's barrier function to maintain optimal hydration.

Retails for:
Step 1- Essential C Cleanser- $36.00
Step 2- Rapid Age Spot and Pigment Lightening Serum- $60.00
Step 3- Advanced Active Radiance Serum- $89.00
Step 4- Essential C Day Moisture-$60.00
Radiant Skin Renewal Set- $45.00

Where to Buy:  Murad.com- Save $10 off any $40 Essential-C Skin Care Order. Promo: SAVE10MURAD, Sephora Stores and Sephora.com, Ulta Stores and Ulta.com


My Thoughts:
Step 1- Essential C Cleanser-This is the only one of the set that I haven't fully utlitzed yet.  I tried it once just so that I could experience it and have something to say for the blog, but I've been sticking to either my cream cleansers from Boots or gels from Mario Badescu.  I like the Clairsonic Mia, and those don't do well with cleansers that foam, and this does produce a nice lather.  It has a light scent that's pleasant, and it doesn't dry my skin out.  So overall, I think it's nice but can't give an honest thumbs up vs thumbs down.  I'd love to know if any of you have found this to be a great cleanser or have had issues.  Please share your experiences below!

Step 2- Rapid Age Spot and Pigment Lightening Serum-I'm not a huge fan of how this smells at all!  However, it is hydroquinone based, so it's going to literally bleach the pigment from the skin to lighten spots.  I've used products with active ingredient in them before with great success, and this is a decent version.  The gel absorbs into the skin quickly, but it does leave a slightly sticky residue, so I'd recommend using it at night.  Hydroquinone can also sensitize your skin to UV rays, so night time is better anyway.  If you're going to use it during the day, I'd layer a good sunscreen over the top to protect your skin.  Not only can it cause the skin to get red and burn easier, it can also overactivate the bleaching properties of the chemical and cause permanent white spots on your skin.  So remember- SPF is key!  I used this for about three weeks and saw a localized lightening of the overall freckles in that area.  But really only because I was looking for it, and it was slight.  I feel like with continued regular use, this would really even out the overall dark spots on the face.

Step 3- Advanced Active Radiance Serum-  I love how quickly this absorbed into my skin, and it really helped to lock in moisture all day.  The tube that came in the set seemed to get used up much quicker than the rest of the set, so I'm not sure if I was using too much or somehow I got gypped.  Either way, I think I'm going to buy the full size and start using that under my moisturizer during the day to keep my skin from getting too dehydrated this winter.  It also has a fresh citrus smell that's more sweet than tangy, and I enjoyed using this.

Step 4- Essential C Day Moisture-  I'm glad this has an SPF in it, and it's a great every day moisturizer for during the day.  This product lasted the longest of all of them, and I think the size is very generous in the kit.  Like the serum, it absorbs quickly with no residue and has a light sweet fresh citrus scent.  It's good for people with combination to slightly dry skin, but it doesn't have enough moisturizing effects for my very dry skin on its own.

Final Verdict:  Fabulous tester set to get into their vitamin C line!  Each of the products is worth the price for the full size.

 

**Disclaimer:  This article contains affiliate links.  As with all my articles, the opinions expressed herein are fully my own.  For more information on my policies, please view my Let's Chat page.

Product Review- Tarte Gifted Mascara

Tarte Gifted Amazonian Clay Smart Mascara Review


From the Brand:
An Amazonian clay smart mascara that instinctively treats your unique lash concerns- working overtime to keep lashes hydrated, intact, healthier, and stronger, while delivering the appearance of voluminous lashes.

Product Performance: The Amazonian clay makes this the first and only “smart” mascara that intuitively finds and treats your unique lash concerns, delivering the benefits you need and volume you desire. The Amazonian clay instinctively lengthens, conditions, repairs and replenishes dry and brittle lashes. This mascara works overtime to keep lashes intact, healthier, and stronger by preventing lash loss and promoting lash health.

Powered By: Amazonian clay: balances, nourishes, hydrates, replenishes and repairs to promote healthy, more voluminous lashes and while preventing lash loss

Rice wax: natural wax that helps lengthen lashes

Retails for:  $19.00


Where to Buy:  Sephora.com and Sephora stores, Ulta.com and Ulta stores, Tartecosmetics.com, QVC.com


My Thoughts:  Every time I try a new mascara, I feel like I fall in love with, and it’s suddenly the best thing since sliced bread.  That’s all I use for the next few weeks or so until it’s time to test-drive another one, and the last is left half-used and forgotten in a box on the bathroom counter.  Very few stand up to the test and are used still months down the road.  This however, is one of them.

I adore the brush head on this mascara.  Very similar to their Lights, Camera, Lashes! Mascara, the wand on this one is full of short densely packed bristles that grip the eyelashes and coat it evenly from root to tip for full lush lashes in fewer strokes.  The formula is thick and deeply black for a volumized look.  It’s more matte than patent, so it doesn’t have a wet look, which I prefer in a mascara.  It dries a bit stiff, but when I put it on immediately after curling my lashes, this stiffness does help hold the curl in my eyelashes pretty darn well.  However, I don’t find that it flakes, dries out my lashes, or is hard to remove.

But also like Tarte’s Lights, Camera, Lashes! Mascara, I do like to use this as a base under another formula for maximum effect.  Mostly, I use it with Buxom Lash or Benefit They’re Real! Mascara.  (I guess I have a thing for mascaras with exclamation points in the name.)  Tarte Gifted Mascara is great for the volume and some definition, but it does lack a bit in the lengthening and high defining category.

Final Verdict:  Another love of mine from the Tarte line, and a definite BUY if you get the opportunity.

**Disclaimer: This article contains referral links.  As with all my product reviews, I was not paid by the cosmetic company to provide feedback or review/promote their products. All the opinions expressed in this article are my own. These items were purchased with my own money. For more information on my policies, please view my Let's Chat page.

Product Review- Benefit Eye Bright

Benefit Eye Bright Review


From the Brand:
This instant eye brightener is like a nap in a stick! Perfect for all skintones, this pink perk-me-up brightens your eyes and your spirits in a single stroke. Apply it to the inner & outer corners of each eye and blend for a wide-awake look. For best results, apply as the final step after you've applied other makeup.

Retails for:  $20.00


Where to Buy:  Sephora.com and Sephora stores, Ulta.com and Ulta stores, Benefitcosmetics.com


My Thoughts:  I have this in two versions.  One is in the pencil.  The other is pressed into a pan on the other half of a Boi-ing for a two-in-one concealing and brightening duo that makes my life so nice when space is a factor.  Since one I can use straight on the face and the other I have to use my finger or a brush, I’ve come to appreciate the versatility of the product in the application and it’s effects.

I love a beautiful matte baby pink eyeshadow base color when creating soft romantic bedroom eyes for my boudoir clients.  Problem is, for years I struggled with how to get that sheer wash of pink to stay put and show up without being too overpowering.  I’ve started layering some of the Benefit Eye Bright from the duo pan onto the eyelid and patting the pale pink shadow over the top to lock it in.  (My favorite to use?  The pale pink shade from the Lorac PRO Palette.)  This keeps the cream in place and adds a bit of depth to the pale color without washing the lids out.  I absolutely LOVE how this looks on my clients!  The eyeshadows blend quite beautifully over the top of it when used as a shadow base, and the light pink color brightens up the entire lid quickly and evenly.

If I just need to highlight under the eyes, in the inner corner, or along the brow bone, I can use the stick version to quickly add a literal line of ‘light’ to brighten the area up without needs to resort to shimmery products that can reflect flash or leave fall out where I don’t want it.  I just draw it on straight from the pencil and blend it out with a fingertip or pencil brush and set with a matte bone or pink color.  Voila!  Instant brightening!


Final Verdict:  Add ‘light’ where you want it without the shimmer.  Genius.

**Disclaimer: As with all my product reviews, I was not paid by the cosmetic company to provide feedback or review/promote their products. All the opinions expressed in this article are my own. These items were purchased with my own money. For more information on my policies, please view my Let's Chat page.

Product Review- Laura Mercier Silk Cream Foundation

Laura Mercier Silk Cream Foundation Review


From the Brand:

 

What it is:
A rich, long-wear foundation that gives skin a professional, full-coverage finish.

What it does:
This creamy long-wear formula glides over skin effortlessly for perfect application and blendability. A special collection of silk proteins, tea extracts, and treated mica blend together to create a luxuriously hydrating foundation that leaves skin softer, smoother, and flawless. Advanced light-reflecting ingredients work to make the appearance of fine lines and imperfections disappear. Even the hardest-to-hide pigmentations are covered to look much smoother and more even. Providing full coverage that lasts for up to 12 hours, this foundation is ideal for special events or photography.

What else you need to know:
This dermatologist-tested, non-comedogenic product is free of oil and fragrance and perfect for all skin types.

Retails for:  $43.00


Where to Buy:  Sephora stores and online at Sephora.com, Laura Mercier counters at select department stores, LauraMercier.com


My Thoughts:  I purchased this foundation from Sephora.com with my yearly VIB 20% of coupon (along with a ton of other products of course), and so far it's been my favorite buy of the haul.  I've seen so many people raving online and in Youtube videos about this foundation, that I figured at 20% off, there was no reason I should pick some up to try out for myself.

The formula itself is really thick, but not in a bad way.  It's nice that it's in a squeeze tube, so measuring out the right amount is easy to do.  If you check out my video review for it though, you'll see that on first try I did use a bit too much.  A pea size amount is all you need for pretty much full coverage over your entire face.  If you need more, you can always spot conceal with concealer, but I didn't even really need any except under my eyes.  (Who doesn't really though?)



I had some trouble with matching the foundation color, but I think that's really because the woman at the Sephora store was a bit of an idiot and wouldn't let me do it myself.  I bought it initially online with the discount, but the color I selected was too dark and a bit orangey.  I'd check out the store first if you're interested in buying it online (if you have coupon codes or ebates type rewards for buying online like I do) to test the color on your jaw line first.  Also, it may have been from my dry skin but it did oxidize on my skin after a bit, so make sure you leave it there for about 5 minutes and then double check that the color is still good.  If it turns, go a shade lighter.


Final Verdict:  If I'd had time to do a favorites for November, this would have been right up there.  It's been my go to for the past few weeks, and I haven't even made the slightest dent in it. 

**Disclaimer: As with all my product reviews, I was not paid by the cosmetic company to provide feedback or review/promote their products. All the opinions expressed in this article are my own. These items were purchased with my own money. For more information on my policies, please view my Let's Chat page.

Product Review- Peter Thomas Roth Peeling Gel

Peter Thomas Roth Peeling Gel Review


From the Brand:
What it is:
A peeling gel that visibly rolls, lifts, and sweeps away dead skin cells when massaged onto skin.

What it is formulated to do:
Multiaction enzymes (pineapple, pomegranate, and keratinase) along with cellulose effectively peel and help uncover a smooth, fresh, new complexion without drying, irritating, or causing undue stress to skin. It removes impurities and decongests clogged pores for a youthful, radiant look.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Phthalates

What else you need to know:
This product is for all skin types.

Retails for:  $48.00


Where to Buy:  Sephora.com and Sephora stores, Ulta.com and Ulta Stores


My Thoughts:  I grabbed this on a whim at the checkout line at Ulta one day, and I've used it several times since.  It is a very easy to use product to get a very slight exfoliation of the skin without irritation.  It's kind of a mix between chemical and manual exfoliation in that you are using a chemical in the gel to loosen the bonds holding the dead skin cells together (chemical exfoliation) plus gentle manual exfoliation with the rubbing.

You smooth it onto dry skin and then let it sit for a few minutes.  Then, simply rub until the product has rolled up into balls and rubbed off the skin.  It sounds kind of gross, and it is a bit weird rubbing your face and feeling the skin literally coming up off into these little balls, but it doesn't scratch and irritate your skin like a scrub.

My skin feels soft and smooth after in most areas, although it's a very light exfoliation.  It doesn't do much in the way of my flaky patches on the sides of my nose when they are acting up.  Although it doesn't sting them either, which is very nice.


Final Verdict:  I think this would be an amazing product for people with sensitive skin who need a gentle exfoliation that won't irritate their skin.

**Disclaimer: As with all my product reviews, I was not paid by the cosmetic company to provide feedback or review/promote their products. All the opinions expressed in this article are my own. These items were purchased with my own money. For more information on my policies, please view my Let's Chat page.

Product Review- Benefit High Beam

Benefit High Beam Review

From the Brand:
Our satiny pink liquid highlighter accents cheek and brow bones for a dewy, radiant glow. Use as a spot highlighter over makeup or wear under complexion products for subtle luminescence. It's the "supermodel in a bottle!"

Retails for:  $26.00


Where to Buy:  Sephora and Sephora.com, Ulta stores and Ulta.com, Benefitcosmetics.com


My Thoughts:  There are several different shades of the Benefit luminizing liquids, but the most common one I see people using is the Benefit High Beam.  I got this little bottle in a set from Benefit earlier this fall, The Pretty Committee, although you can find this included in a ton of their sets since it's such a popular product.  This particular shade is a light pink glow that looks really pretty on almost all skin tones.  For darker tones, I'd recommend using the Sun Beam, a soft golden glow instead.

Personally, I'm not much of a fan of using liquid highlighters.  I love to set my foundation with a powder, and I find that a liquid highlighter over the top of a powder can make the powder cake up around the edges of the highlighter and mess up the overall look of my makeup.  Some formulas can also breakdown the foundation that I'm wearing instead of sitting on top, again messing up the look of my makeup and calling attention to the area in a negative way.

This isn't the case with the Benefit High Beam.  It does illuminate without messing up the liquid foundation underneath.  I'd still definitely avoid it on top of a powder, but it works amazing worked into the skin prior to a powder foundation to give a "glowing from within" type of effect.

My favorite way to wear this is on my cupid's bow, that little dip over my top lip, to call attention to my lips and make them look fuller.  It's an instant pout pucker upper.  It also goes well under my eyes to brighten them up in photos, since the slight shimmery glow from it reflects light.  Just be sure to go easy on it or else you'll look super weird in person.

The formula is very thin with a natural level of light reflection.  It's not a thick shimmery product by any means, which means that it's always going to look believable and understated rather than over done.  And a little goes a long way, so even a small bottle like this will last you for a long time!

Final Verdict:  Overall, a fabulous liquid highlighting product that gives a natural looking glow to the skin and has a lot of versatility.

Have you used this product before?  Share your thoughts and your way of incorporating it into your makeup look for other readers to enjoy!

**Disclaimer: As with all my product reviews, I was not paid by the cosmetic company to provide feedback or review/promote their products. All the opinions expressed in this article are my own. These items were purchased with my own money. For more information on my policies, please view my Let's Chat page.

Product Review- Pacifica Color Quence Lip Tints

Pacifica Color Quench Lip Tint Review 


From the Brand:  Give your lips the love they deserve!  All Natural Color Quench lip tints packs major lip moisture, nourishing naturals and gorgeous, sheer lip color into one perfectly portable, 100% recyclable tube.  Essential fatty acids from rich and amazing avocado and coconut oils leave lips luscious and healthy.  Natural flavor and 5 perfect shades produce the prettiest, most kissable mouth ever.  100% vegan and gluten free.  Your lips will love you back!


Retails for:  $7.00


Where to Buy:  Pacificaperfume.com, Select Target stores


My Thoughts:  These aren't my absolute favorite tinted lip balms ever, I'll be honest.  The color is sheer and muted, but looks more like you've worn your lipstick off rather than looking like it's "supposed" to be a sheer lipcolor.  And the formula can feel a little gritty. 

At first I was so in love with these, having a few colors I picked up individually from Target this summer.  However, I found that after about an hour, my lips felt parched and in need of more product.  But the color was still there, and if I layered more on top of it, it just didn't look right.  Overall, I was pretty disappointed in them.

They do have a very pretty color when you first apply them and smell great, so I'll give them that.  $7.99 isn't that expensive, but I'd rather buy a sheer gloss or a cheaper Chapstick layered over lipliner for the same effect.


Final Verdict:  Didn't live up to my expectations after the first application.

 

**Disclaimer:  This article contains affiliate links.  As with all my articles, the opinions expressed herein are fully my own.  For more information on my policies, please view my Let's Chat page.

 

Product Review- Dr. Jart BB Cream

Dr. Jart+ Beauty Balm Review


From the Brand: What it is:
A purifying face cream that provides age defense, and hides uneven skintone and blemishes.

What it is formulated to do:
- Botanical Formula to purify and calm blemish prone or sensitive skin while also combating dark spots and pollutants for an enhanced radiance
- Features SPF 25 sun protection
- Comes in one universal shade

Perfect and protect skin instantly with this all-in-one multifunctional Beauty Balm. This triple-action formula naturally covers blemishes and uneven skintone, and contains botanical actives to purify and calm blemish-prone or irritated skin. Arbutin works to erase unwanted dark spots, while caviar extract and antioxidants protect skin from inner and outer pollutants for an enhanced radiance. Lightweight with sunscreen protection for simple, one-step neutralizing coverage, this soothing cream delivers optimal results for both women and men.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Phthalates

What else you need to know:
Beauty Balms or B.B. Creams were originally developed as a perfect post-procedure cream used to treat, hydrate, prime, protect, and camouflage the skin. Great for all skin types including those with sensitive skin, these versatile “five-in-one” formulas are designed to do it all: treat with high levels of active skin care ingredients; moisturize and smooth dehydrated skin; prime and perfect skin’s surface; camouflage and color correct the skintone; and protect skin from the sun with SPF. They can be used as a last step for their skincare benefits or used on their own as an instant beautifier.

Retails for:  $36.00


Where to Buy:  Sephora.com and Sephora stores


My Thoughts:  I've never been much of a BB cream user.  I've only ever used medium to full coverage foundations, so the thought of leaving my skin so "bare" was really hard for me to get over.  However, this BB cream totally changed the way I view them, and now I've been snapping up different brands to see how they all compare. 

I received this small size in one of my beauty box subscriptions many moons ago and only recently decided it was high time I see what all the buzz about BB creams was.  I found this to have the most coverage of any brand that I've tried so far, and I wish it was a bigger sample!  I used it all up very quickly, although I did get four full face applications from this tiny tube.

It has a great amount of coverage, and it felt amazing on my skin.  It soaked in quickly with no residue and didn't smell heavy like sunscreen as some other brands I've since tried.  It left my skin looking perfectly even and naturally dewy.  I only needed a bit of concealer under my eyes and a light dusting of powder to set.  I also found that it lasted all day with really no touch ups needed.

My skin is pretty dry, and this kept my face hydrated but stayed in place.  I'm not sure how it would do for more oily skins.


Final Verdict:  I wish the price wasn't on the higher end compared to drugstore brands, but this does definitely do a far better job.  I'd be more than willing to pay the price for this product and use it in the summer when I'm not looking for a full face coverage every day.

**Disclaimer: As with all my product reviews, I was not paid by the cosmetic company to provide feedback or review/promote their products. All the opinions expressed in this article are my own. These items were purchased with my own money. For more information on my policies, please view my Let's Chat page.

Product Review- e.l.f. Contouring Blush and Bronzer Duo

e.l.f. Studio Contouring Blush and Bronzing Powder Review


From the Brand:
Create a healthy and natural glow all year long with the Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder. The Blush highlights the cheeks to add a flush of color, while the Bronzer accents and contours cheekbones for beautiful definition. This convenient compact has just what you need to achieve a gorgeous glow anytime, anywhere.

Retails for:  $3.00


Where to Buy:  eyeslipsface.com


My Thoughts:  For only $3, this is a really good buy.  One side is a beautiful bronzer with a very subtle shimmer, and on the other side is a soft peach.  The bronzer is richly pigmented and worth the purchase on its own.  I love it for contouring all fair to medium skin tones.  People with a deeper shade of tan and darker, might not find enough color for them to use as a contouring product.  I don't find it to be orangey at all, which is perfect.  Although, the fact that it does have shimmer in it does eliminate it for my first choice in contouring products.  But during the summer when I don't mind a bit of shimmer, it's a great option to bring on my vacations.

I wish the blush was as pigmented and slightly more flattering on myself.  I'm not as big a fan of the peachy hue.  I personally prefer more pinky tones.  This does have a soft golden shimmer through it that gives a subtle glow to the skin, and those with fair skins should be pretty happy with the overall effect.  People with more tan skin and darker definitely will find it too chalky and light for them.


Final Verdict:  If it's the right shades for your skintone, it's a fantastic way to pare down your makeup bag for travel or touchups!

 

**Disclaimer:  This article contains affiliate links.  As with all my articles, the opinions expressed herein are fully my own.  For more information on my policies, please view my Let's Chat page.

Product Review- Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Review

Chocolate Soleil Matte Bronzing Powder Review


From the Brand:

What It Is:
Bronzing has never been so delicious. Our chocolate-scented, shimmer-free, matte bronzer is perfect for contouring and creating an all-over deep tan using real antioxidant-rich cocoa powder. It’s all the tan without the twinkle.

More To Love:

• Infused with antioxidant-rich cocoa powder and signature bronzing pigments to create a unique matte bronzer that neutralizes red and evens skin tone.
• 100% cruelty-free product.

*Vegan friendly

**Paraben-free 

Retails for:  $30.00

Where to Buy:  TooFaced.com; Sephora.com and stores, Ulta.com and stores


My Thoughts:  If you've seen a single one of my Youtube videos, you're probably already aware that I'm slightly obsessed with this product.  Ok, more than slightly but I'll refrain from making myself sound like a nut job on the internet.  Just watch me sniff it in my videos and you'll see what I'm talking about, because the stuff seriously smells like hot chocolate.  And I have ovaries, therefore I'm a big fan of chocolate.

Besides the smell, it's a really awesome matte bronzer.  I especially love it to contour my face with.  It does come in two shades, the Chocolate Soleil which is the darker of the two and Milk Chocolate Soleil which is the lighter of the two.  I'd use the Milk Chocolate to give a nice bronzed appearance to my skin and then the Chocolate Soleil to go in and contour for more definition to my cheekbones for a naturally sculpted look.  That's if I owned the Milk Chocolate version.  (Christmas is coming... just in case anyone shopping for me happens to be reading this.  Family members- I'm lookin' at you!)  Instead I use my Smashbox Suntan Matte Bronzer, but that's a review for a different time.  Like 30 seconds after you finish this one.  Look, I even provided you with the link! --> http://facesbysam.blogspot.com/2013/08/product-review-smashbox-bronze-lights.html.


Final Verdict:  TooFaced is the king of bronzers, and with one that smells like chocolate, it's a hands down must have my makeup bag every time I apply my "face". 

October Favorites!

October 2013 Products of the Month:

Oh boy!  It's been a bit since I got around to doing a favorites post, and even longer since I did a video for one.  Sometimes I get so caught up in the individual daily reviews that I forget to add some other types of content to me blog here.  This is kind of like a review of course, but at least it's in a different format and is a bit more conversational.  Hope you enjoy! 

Lips:

Urban Decay Stardust Lipgloss- I think I picked this lip gloss up from Ulta.com one day.  One of those random things you just throw in your online cart to reach the free shipping qualifications, but it was one of the best random buys I've ever made.  It's got a minty taste and smell to it and the color is a cool and funky iridescent pink with hints of peach, gold, and even lavender shimmer.  It goes perfectly over bare lips for an interesting take on glossy lips.  It's available from Ulta.com and in Ulta stores, and it's currently on clearance from UrbanDecay.com. 

Sonia Kashuk Lip Crayon-  Red lips are all the rage this fall, and I've been trying a ton of different red lip products because I intend to film a video on the best red lip products.  We'll see if I get around to it, but in the meantime it did lead me to an amazing lip crayon by Sonia Kashuk.  It's the perfect deep red for my fair skintone, and it doesn't clash at all with my red hair.  I think it'd be a pretty universal shade for just about everyone.  I love that I can just draw it on and fill in my lips, so it doubles as a lipstick and liner in one product.  It's easy to tote in my purse or even my pocket, but I don't feel that I need a lot of touching up.  It stays really well, and the satin matte finish is really flattering.  It's not the uber dry looking matte of some lipsticks, but it doesn't look like freshly applied "moist" lipstick either. Sonia Kashuk products are available online at Target.com or in Target stores nationwide.

Face:

Tarte BB Treatment Primer- I got this in my QVC set last month and have been loving how it sits on my skin and preps it for the perfect foundation finish.  I don't get a lot of coverage with the BB treatment alone, and I'm pretty sure that's why they call it a primer rather than a BB cream.  They have their own separate BB cream product that has much more coverage to it.  This is truly more like a primer, only tinted, and combines the skincare benefits of a BB cream with it.  This is available QVC.com, Tartecosmetics.com, Ulta.com, and Sephora.com as well as in stores.  I recommend picking it up from QVC, as for only $1.68 more you get a buffing brush with it!


Tarte BB Concealer- Along the lines of the BB cream, Tarte has created a skin beneficial concealer as well.  I go more into depth on this in my review of the set as a whole, but it's a very similar product to the Maracuja Creaseless Concealer only in a compact form rather than a tube.  It definitely needs to be set, especially under the eyes, but I love how well it covers and how convenient the packaging is.  Something about compact/cream concealers that I just love.  I think I've used this product ever day since I got it (that I wear makeup of course! cuz honestly who really needs makeup being a housewife with no one to impress? can I get an amen?).  This was a life saver out in San Fransisco with the long flights and taking the red eye back.  Side note: remind me to never again fly home on the red eye when I have to check out of my hotel at noon.  Almost 10 hours of nothing to do and needing to store my luggage at the concierge desk is not very smart of me.  I can't find this product listed individually anywhere, but the QVC.com website lists it as being an exclusive to them until 11/30/13 in the Beauty Without Boundaries Set where I got it from.  I assume that after that time it will be available from the other outlets for Tarte products.

Tarte Dual Sided Concealer Brush-  This is one of the best concealer brushes I've ever used, and I wish that it was available for individual purchase!  I'd buy a ton of them!  (I'm a total brush whore...)  It's such a unique concept that it combines to different textures of hairs to give you a different finish depending on which side you use.  I love to apply it with the light colored side and then flip it and blend it in with the darker side.  I haven't tried it out with other concealers yet, but if I can get my hands on any more without having to buy the whole set over again (which is seriously tempting because the price is so amazing for how much you get) I'll be using them on clients and recommending them left and right.

Body/Hair:

Perlier Volcanic Spa Scrub-  You can read my individual review of this product here, but now that I've been using it for several weeks I have to say that my skin has never felt or looked better.  I have keratosis pilaris, which means that the hair follicles on my body produce too many skin cells and clog/block my hair from growing correctly.  This creates a lot of ingrown hairs and little bumps all over my body, but particularly on the backs of my arms and on my thighs.  Since I opt to wax my legs every few weeks instead of shaving daily, it's essential that I keep my body properly exfoliated so that I can keep the bumps at bay.  I really love how this scrub isn't oily, so I don't have to worry about slipping in the shower.  And the smell is nice and refreshing, not overly sweet or heavy.  Perlier products like this one are available on HSN.com.

Healthy Sexy Hair Soy Milk Shampoo-  You can read a review of the Healthy Sexy Hair soy line here.  Honestly, my hair has never felt softer or been more shiny since I started using this shampoo!  It has a great subtle smell and suds up nicely without stripping the moisture or the color from my hair.  It's been really nourishing on its own.  You can purchase from Sexyhair.com, Ulta.com and Ulta stores, even Target.

**Disclaimer: As with all my product reviews, I was not paid by the cosmetic company to provide feedback or review/promote their products. This article contains some affiliate links provided through Viglink.com. All the opinions expressed in this article are my own. These items were purchased with my own money. For more information on my policies, please view my Let's Chat page.

Product Review- Eve Pearl Concealer Trio

Eve Pearl Concealer Trio

From the Brand:   

This luxurious, lightweight cream provides the most versatile sheer - medium - full coverage with a non-greasy texture that glides on the under eyes area or face, while allowing your skin to breathe. It blends into the skin and the universal spectrum of color in the pigments adapt to the skin tone and the changes caused by body chemistry, weather and sun exposure. Ideal for use when flawless precision is required with High Definition Cameras, Lights and REAL LIFE...for all ages.

For all skin types, especially sensitive skin.  No more blotchy skin. No more redness!!

Retails for:   $49.00-$52.00

Where to Buy:   EvePearl.com, CameraReadyCosmetics.com, Amazon.com

My Thoughts:   This has honestly got to be one of my Holy Grail kind of cosmetics item.  For someone who attends the makeup shows in New York faithfully for the past five years and trolls the makeup world forums for information on the best products, this has been recommended over and over and over again with good reason!  I actually read Eve Pearl's book "Plastic Surgery Without the Surgery: The Miracle of Makeup Techniques" back when I was working at the Prescriptives counter at Dillards just after my oldest had been born.  It wasn't until a few years later attending the Makeup Show NYC that I got to hear her speak in person and try out her cosmetics line.  She is who convinced me that conventional makeup wisdom that using a yellow tinted concealer under your eyes or a pink tinted concealer even was not the proper way to cover dark circles.  Peach (or salmon as she refers to it) is the proper way to neutralize the blue shadows under your eyes and cover without having to pile on the makeup.

I purchased the concealer Trio "A" while at said makeup show about four years ago.  It has done wonders for me!  Not only does it counteract the blue tint under my eyes and that of my clients, there are two shades of concealer for blending around the rest of the face.  It's a pretty universal palette for the fair to medium shade skin tones, which is the primary clientele I seem to work on most in my professional life, and of course it fits me perfectly as well.  Even though the salmon color looks really dark, even with my fair skin once I put it under my eyes the circles are immediately gone!  I apply it under my foundation so that it does match a bit better, but I'm using a sponge (like the one from Qosmedix.com) to stipple it over the top for a really seamless coverage.

You can see in the photo just how much use I get out of it, and it got a little hot when I was trying to photograph it and melted a bit.  I've also dropped it a few times, and eventually the lid snapped off.  I think I've gone through 3-4 of these over the years, picking up a new one at the makeup shows every time I'm there.

The formulation of these is super creamy, so make sure you use it sparingly.  I pat some on under the eyes and give it a few minutes to warm up with the heat of the body.  This will cause a bit of slip, so I then rework it over the skin with either a sponge, my fingertips, or a fluffy brush like the Real Techniques Setting Brush to give it the perfect thin layer, and then use a single ply tissue or toilet paper square to blot off excess oils and set it into the skin.  Then, top with foundation of your choice or powder.

Final Verdict:  Holy Grail product for sure.

 

 

**Disclaimer: As with all my product reviews, I was not paid by the cosmetic company to provide feedback or review/promote their products. All the opinions expressed in this article are my own. These items were purchased with my own money. For more information on my policies, please view my Let's Chat page.

Product Review- Dr. Brandt BB Matte Cream

Dr. Brandt BB Matte Cream Review


From the Brand:
What it is:
An all-in-one oil-free beauty balm designed for oily/combination skin that provides instant mattifying coverage and oil-control for flawless, youthful, and healthy-looking skin.

What it is formulated to do:
Developed to treat, protect, mattify, and even skintone, BB Matte with signature Shinerase™ leaves combination, oily, and acne-prone skin looking fresh and flawless. It blends seamlessly with the skin providing an instant skin makeover, erases shine for a matte look, and covers skin imperfections like post-blemish discoloration, redness, enlarged pores, and acne scars. A highly effective treatment as well as a great alternative to makeup, this product doesn’t clog pores, hydrates, minimizes the appearance of line and wrinkles, brightens skintone, and provides full broad spectrum protection from UVA/UVB rays.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Phthalates

What else you need to know:
BB Matte is an oil-free mattifying formula ideal for hot and humid weather with 100 percent mineral filters. Recommended for oily/combination skin, blemish-prone skin, sensitive skin, or anyone looking for a shine-free complexion, it is available in two shades, can be used with or as a substitute for foundation, and offers buildable coverage.

Retails for:  $39.00


Where to Buy:  Sephora.com and Sephora stores, Beauty.com, DrBrandtSkincare.com


My Thoughts:  This came in one of my Glossybox monthly subscriptions a while back, and while I'm very happy that the shade matched me, I'm a little disappointed that it doesn't work that well with my dry skin.  That being said, I'm not sure how it would work on someone with oily or combination skin, as I didn't find much mattifying at all with this product.  It does have enough pigmentation to do a decent job of evening out my skintone without looking like foundation, but I noticed that my skin looked almost dewey for a while before any shine went away.  I'm not sure how long is normal or if it's supposed to mattify the skin immediately.  If it's supposed to be a mattifying BB cream, I'd assume that it should mattify the skin right away.  I'm curious to see how people with combination skin or oily skin feel about this product.  I'm a little torn, because I did like the coverage but felt that it's not the right product for my skin.


Final Verdict:  Not for me, but it may be a perfect BB cream for those with oily skin.

**Disclaimer: As with all my product reviews, I was not paid by the cosmetic company to provide feedback or review/promote their products. This article contains some affiliate links provided through Viglink.com. All the opinions expressed in this article are my own. These items were purchased with my own money. For more information on my policies, please view my Let's Chat page.