NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream Review

NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream Review

From the Brand:
Neither lipstick nor lip gloss, this matte lip cream is a new kind of lip color that goes on silky smooth and sets to a matte finish. Soft Matte Lip Cream is surprisingly durable and, unlike some matte lipstick formulas, also moisturizing.


Retails for:  $6.00

Where to Buy:  NYXCosmetics.com, Select Target stores and Target.com, Ulta stores and Ulta.com, Blush.com


My Thoughts:  It feels like everyone is using these lately, and maybe it's just the fact that I'm not a huge fan of matte lipsticks, I just can't get myself to like these.  I feel like it looks way to chalky on my lips, and it settles.  I'm the kind of person who uses chapstick 24/7.  As in sometimes I wake up out of a dead sleep to put more chapstick on my lips if they're feeling dry.  So it's not like I should have flaky dry lips, but when I put this on I feel like I can see every last line and texture to my lips.  It ages me, and I'm not a fan of products that make me look anywhere close to my age.  I'm super proud of the fact that I'm 31 and look 21 thank you!

Maybe I'm just too used to wearing gloss and the NYX Butter Gloss, which is probably almost as addicting for me as the EOS lip balms I've been using non-stop for the past few months.  It's also summer, and a matte lip can just look off during summer in my opinion.  It's too "formal" I guess.  To me, a matte lip is more for fall/winter or special occasions. 


Final Verdict:  Not a fan of these for my lips.  Kudos to the girls who can rock this look!

**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.

It's A 10 Miracle Hair Mask Review

It's A 10 Miracle Hair Mask Review

From the Brand:
Developed to respond to the demands of today's color treated, heat styled, and otherwise processed hair, It's a 10 Miracle Hair Mask is a simple-to-use, conditioning treatment made to enhance softness and smoothness. Flexible enough to be used as a daily conditioner and also intensive enough to be used as a periodic deep-conditioning treatment, the Miracle Hair Mask delivers unparalleled results for dry, damaged, or over-processed hair.

Retails for:  $30.00


Where to Buy:  You can find this in some beauty supply stores or places like Target, but like professional brands of haircare, this is supposed to only be sold at authorized retailers that have a salon on site.  Ulta sells this in stores, but it's not available online at Ulta.com.


My Thoughts:  I got my hair ombre'd back in March, and instantly I realized I needed to switch up my hair care plan to accommodate for the seriously parched ends.  A hairstylist friend of mine recommended this hair mask, and I'm so thankful she did!  I wash my hair 1-2 times a week only, and instead of using a regular conditioner I use a hair mask to rehydrate and protect my hair.  I've done this for about five or six years now, so even in the summer my roots don't really product much oil at all anymore.  While this is great on the one hand that I don't have to constantly wash my hair which strips it, it also means I have less oil to naturally condition my hair.

This mask really helps to leave my hair feeling amazing after I wash it, very silky, soft, and detangled.  This is the longest my hair has been since I was maybe six or seven years old, and I'm not quite used to having to spend so much time brushing it out all the time.  It seems to tangle within minutes, and if I use a different conditioner I notice I spend even longer combing out the tangles when I step out of the shower than if I use the It's A 10 mask.  I've gone through two tubs of it already and need to go pick up a third.  I also like that I can use this on the entire length of my hair without it making my roots greasy.  Some conditioning masks really should only be used on the bottom half of the hair, but this I can get all the way up to the scalp to nourish and protect my strands.


Final Verdict:  An obvious buy for me, since it's on my shopping list to pick up a third!  Highly recommend!

**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.

No 7 Beautiful Skin Dry Skin Rescue Review

No 7 Beautiful Skin Dry Skin Rescue Review

From the Brand:
This intensely hydrating multi-purpose balm, formulated with nourishing shea and cocoa butters and enriched with skin-loving vitamins and minerals, provides an instant and long lasting moisture hit to relieve, soothe and visibly improve dry patches.

Not tested on animals.

Retails for:  $16.99


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


My Thoughts:  Like the Boot mask I reviewed the other day, this was a product I bought in the winter to combat my dryness, but I've actually been using it a lot lately.  I traveled to Canada earlier in the month for a two week vacation visiting family and friends, and the air there was much drier than here in muggy Virginia.  The flights there, between, and back (six total!) also majorly zapped my skin of any moisture.  I've got flaky red patches on either side of my nose like I haven't had since that polar vortex hit Virginia in January.  This moisturizer has been a life saver.

The consistency is like a creamy balm, and it's very soothing on my skin.  You only need a tiny little bit, as it's very emollient and actually hard to squeeze from the tube. At first I was frustrated you have to work it to get it out, but then I quickly realized that's a bonus since I didn't want to waste any.  A pea size amount is plenty to sooth the dry patches on my skin.  You don't need to use this everywhere.  It's more of a spot treatment rather than something for the whole face.


Final Verdict:  A great cost effective solution for dry scaly patches on your skin or areas where you face needs a boost of hydration and calming.

**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.

Maybelline FIT Me Concealer Review

Maybelline FIT Me Concealer Review

From the Brand:
Blends seamlessly to cover under-eye circles and imperfections. Matches natural tone, never blotches, never cakes.

Retails for:  $6.99


Where to Buy:  Anywhere drugstore makeup is sold, such as Ulta stores and Ulta.com, Walgreens.com, CVS.com, Target, Walmart, and grocery stores


My Thoughts:  I bought this with a bunch of excitement, because I'd seen it everywhere compared to the NARS concealer.  I certainly hope that for the price of the NARS one it lasts longer than this one does.  I loved that it was easy to find a perfect match for my skin.  That's definitely a huge bonus for this concealer, but that's about where the praise ends.  It didn't last at all on my skin.  It settles into the fine lines under my eyes and makes me look tired and old after about two hours- even setting it with powder.  It doesn't stay at all on my breakouts, just slips off and settles around the edges.  It's much to creamy for a breakout, and the doe foot applicator will just mean I'm transferring bacteria into the tube if I use it directly on the zit.



Final Verdict:  I wasn't expecting too much from a drugstore concealer honestly, so I wasn't too disappointed to find that while the color is perfect the formula isn't.

**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.

No 7 Beautiful Skin Hydration Mask Review

No 7 Beautiful Skin Hydration Mask Review

From the Brand:
This mask has an intense moisture boost to leave your skin feeling beautifully soft and smooth. Glycerin and Cocoa butter combine with emollients to nourish and deeply moisturize the skin. Ceramides and cholesterol will target the very surface of the skin, adding essential lipids (or oils) and strengthening its surface. Contains Vitamin E and C.

Retails for:  $16.99


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


My Thoughts:  When my skin was freaking out this winter, I tried just about everything to help it stay hydrated without clogging my pores or interferring with how my makeup wore during the day.  I'd get dry flaky patches in my t-zone, but heavy oily moisturizers would cause redness and bumps under the skin on the sides of my nose or make my makeup melt off if I tried to use them in the morning.

Instead, I started trying masks and infrequent use products like hydrating masks and balms to see if using something once a week or so would be more effective. This works wonderfully, although it did make my skin tingle just a tiny bit for some reason.  I don't use it as frequently now that the weather is warmer, but I do use it in the morning before special dates like my cousin's wedding a two weeks ago or if I'm going out with my husband for dinner that night.  It helps so plump and smooth my skin without making it greasy with the humidity.


Final Verdict:  In the winter, it helps to banish my dry spots, and in the summer it works to rehydrate quickly without a thick greasy layer of moisturizer that will interfere with my makeup.

**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.

e.l.f. Brow Mascara Review

e.l.f. Brow Mascara Review

From the Brand:
Achieve glossy, shiny, healthy-looking lashes and brows, infused with long wearing conditioning agents in our Wet Gloss Lash & Brow mascara. Flawless lashes and brows have never been easier!

Retails for:  $1.00


Where to Buy:  EyesLipsFace.com, Target, Walmart, and Walgreens.com


My Thoughts:  This is one of those impulse buys that ends up in my cart every time I go shopping at Target.  I inevitably browse my way through the cosmetics department, just "to see what's new" and end up with a bunch of products tossed in with my bread, sponges, and whatever random other things I convinced myself I had to leave the house to buy that day.  (I swear, it's really just for their pretzels and the peace and quiet of wandering the aisles sans kiddos.)  For a buck, I figured it was a justifiable purchase.  However, I was quickly convinced that this is a definite underrated gem by the uber inexpensive e.l.f. brand!

I usually don't use brow mascara/gel at all, since I keep my brow hairs trimmed pretty well.  And if they are a bit on the unruly side, some hairspray spritzed on a spoolie does the trick quite nicely.  That all changed when I tried this stuff.  Now, every time I do my makeup I put a little bit of this over my brows to give them definition, a touch of shine, and staying power.

It goes on easily, and honestly I can't tell a difference between the "gel" side and the "mascara" side.  Both work the same for me on my brows.  I don't bother with clear mascara on my eyelashes. I figure if I'm going to put something on them, I'm going to be using black mascara.  It doesn't dry super crusty or hard, and it doesn't take forever to dry like some brands can.  It also doesn't dry super matte, so they have just a little bit of shine to them like naturally shiney healthy hair rather than slicked up gelled hair.  You know what I'm talking about.


Final Verdict:  If I could only pick a handful of e.l.f. products to own, this would be one of them!  Amazing product for the price!

**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.

Yes to Blueberries Skincare Review

Yes to Blueberries Skincare Review

From the Brand:
Intensive Skin Repair Serum (Size: 1.0 oz / 41 ml)
Formulated with Wild Acacia to reduce wrinkle depth and appearance and Cupuacu Seed Butter to 'plump' skin. Let us do the wrinkle-fighting, time-erasing work, while you sleep!
At least 95% Natural

• Fragrance Free
• Petroleum, SLS, & Paraben Free
• Cruelty-free

Yes to Blueberries Daily Repairing Moisturizer with SPF 30 is formulated with Organic Cotton Thistle which is clinically proven to help boost natural collagen production and aid skin rejuvenation, and Blueberries to help fight external skin damage. A blend of Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide provide gentle, natural UVA and UVB sun protection. Go on, enjoy that sunshine!
•97% Natural
•SPF-30; UVA/UVB Protection
•Free of Parabens, Petroleum and SLS

Retails for:  $19.99- Serum, $17.99 in stores, but $14.39 online at Target- Moisturizer


Where to Buy:  YesToCarrots.com, Target Stores and Target.com


My Thoughts:  At first I really liked both of these products, but after I while they didn't work as well for me as they did in the beginning.  The serum is more like a lightweight lotion in consistency, and it sinks into the skin nicely.  There's no fragrance to it, but it doesn't smell amazing like the makeup remover wipes I've already reviewed by this line.  It does a good job to perk up my hydration for the rest of the day, but other than that it wasn't anything super amazing.

The moisturizer was ok, but it goes on very chalky and leaves a whitish cast on my skin if I don't really rub it in well.  It's more like a sunblock than a moisturizer, and it has a sunblock smell to it, too.  I didn't notice any particular super hydration coming from this and stopped using it after about three weeks. I wanted to give it a real thorough test before making my opinion about it, and it failed to impress every time.


Final Verdict:  If you're looking for a lightweight serum to go under your moisturizer, I'd recommend the serum.  It's much less expensive than high end brands and does a good job of upping the hydration factor.  I'd skip the moisturizer unless you're looking for something that's just a bit of hydration and more of a sunblock.

**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.

Boots Hot Cloth Cleansing Balm Review

Boots Hot Cloth Cleansing Balm Review

From the Brand:
Reveal a beautiful, radiant complexion with this hot cloth cleansing balm from Boots. Part of the Botanics Organic collection, it contains a luxurious blend of shea butter, rosehip and jojoba oil. The gentle polishing action of the muslin cloth helps remove dirt and impurities for cleaner, healthier-looking skin.

Retails for:  $8.49


Where to Buy:  Target stores and Target.com, and Drugstore.com


My Thoughts:  Let me just tell you about how much I love this stuff!  It's awesome!  It's helped me detox my skin and pull all the deep crap from in my pores out, and my complexion is so much better for it.  It was definitely a process.  The first time I used it, it was sort of similar to my Clarins Cleansing Milk.  I massaged it on my face to dissolve the makeup, then wiped it off.  The only difference is with this product, you use the included muslin cloth soaked in hot water to wipe the balm off. 

I use the cloth like a compress, holding it over areas of the face so the heat really soaks in and opens up my pores.  Then I wipe the balm off, repeating the process until my skin is clean.  Then I go back over and use the hot compress over my t zone areas, where I find that I get a lot of congestion.  Especially around my chin.  I'm forever finding little breakouts just sitting under the surface waiting to errupt on my next cycle.

The product smells really good, very fresh and clean.  I expected it to be more milky or sticky or something, but it's almost like a wax.  It melts a bit with the heat of your face and the compress, but it never fully liquifies.  It's one of those not really a solid kind of deals, sorta like peanut butter.  Not a solid, not a liquid.

I noticed after the very first use that my pores were getting a good deep cleaning.  Of course, that also led to a lot of breakouts immediately after, as things are being pulled to the surface.  You have to get past that in order to really appreciate how good this is for your skin.  Just like going and getting a deep pore cleaning from a facial.

After a few uses, I realized that I needed to switch to a gentle foaming cleanser afterwards in order to make sure that all the residue was off my face.  It does a really good job of removing my foundation, but at the same time I like to follow up with either a quick wash or at the very least some good toner.  Twice a week I use an exfoliating face wash, as I didn't find enough exfoliation from the muslin cloth itself.  I am also using less moisturizer as well, since this helps to hydrate my dry skin while removing my makeup.

My only drawback to this product is that you have to wash the cloth after every use, or else you're rubbing dead skin cells and old makeup and bacteria into your skin.  I tried using a foaming antibacterial wash from Bath and Body Works after to clean it and left it over the faucet to dry, but it wasn't getting it clean enough.  I have to put it through the wash with the rest of my towels, which I only wash once a week.  I switch out to new towels every other use, so I'd like to be able to buy extra muslin cloths to use a clean one every time.  But that's a relatively small complaint I think.



Final Verdict:  Helps to really purify your skin while removing your makeup.  Plus, the heat feels really good.

**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.

OPI Nail Color Swatches- Brazil

Product Info:

Set 1: OPI Brazil CopacaBabies 4 pc Mini Kit
Tropicalicious shades - sizzling and spirited! OPI's Brazil CopacaBabies Mini Pack contains:

• Next Stop - The Bikini Zone
• Kiss Me I'm Brazilian
• AmazON - AmazOFF
• Where Did Suzi's Man-go?

No DBP, Toluene, and Formaldehyde Free

4-mini nail lacquers (1/8 fl oz.)  $12.95 at Ulta

Set 2:  OPI Brazil Beach Sandies 4 pc Mini Kit
Four vibrant Liquid Sand minis from the Brazil Beach Sandies Collection.

Set includes:

• Samba-dy Loves Purple
• I'm Brazil Nuts Over You
• What's a Little Rain Forest
• You're So Flippy Floppy

No DBP, Toluene, and Formaldehyde Free

4-mini nail lacquers (1/8 fl oz.)  $12.95 at Ulta- available online only

Individual Shades available at Ulta and Ulta.com for $9.00 each

My Thoughts:  These are ok colors for the OPI brand.  I'm used to a bit more pigmentation, and I'm not sure whether it was because it's in a mini bottle or not?  I felt that most of the textured shades needed three or more coats to come out looking even.  The solid colors were much better, but they still needed at least two coats.  My favorites overall were the Live Love Carnival and Where Did Suzi's Man-Go.  I love these for the summer, and I'm sure I'll be rocking them quite a bit.  My favorite shades for summer are corals and pinks.

I like the shade range overall in this collection.  There's a little something for every taste.  Plus, it's fun that some of them are sandy textures, kind of like the beach.  I was most disappointed in the blues, as I didn't think they were all that original.  The teal is pretty, but it definitely needs lot of coats.  You can see in the photo even after three coats it's still not perfectly even.  The light blue is very streaky as well, and it's just a rather boring light blue.  The only think that makes it a bit different is the texture.  I do just adore the shade names of these nail polishes.  As expected, OPI has the best shade names for their nail polishes.

These last about what I'd expect for nail polish on my nails.  Since I'm constantly typing and working with my hands, polish only lasts at max two days before it chips. 

I bought these kits from Ulta back in March, but I thought now would be a good time to review them as they are really fun summer shades.  You can probably still find them online from Ulta.com or full size bottles at dugstores.

Final Verdict:  The mini bottles in the kits are a great way to try out new OPI shades without having to pay for a full size bottle you may not wear often.  Especially good for people like myself who buy way more nail polish than they could ever wear!

**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.

L'Oreal Magic Lumi Highlighter Review

L'Oreal Magic Lumi Highlighter Review

From the Brand:
Studio Secrets Magic Lumi Concealer highlights contours while playing down imperfections, Instantly enlightens shadows and dark circles and illuminates corners and brows for a wide-awake effect.

Retails for:  $12.99


Where to Buy:  Walgreens.com, Ulta stores and Ulta.com, Drugstore.com, and anywhere you like to shop for your drugstore makeup


My Thoughts:  I had this highlighter for months before I ever actually used it, and I mistakingly tried to use it as a concealer at first under my eyes.  It wasn't such a big hit.  However, I've loved using it lately as intended, to highlight areas of my face.  I use it after my foundation and concealer, up along my cheekbones, the bow of my lip, down the center of my nose, forehead, and chin to bring some light.  It's got a slightly pinkish tone to it without being too "pink".  It doesn't have a shimmer, but it reflects light nicely.

I apply it straight from the wand to the areas I want and let it sit for about 30 seconds.  Then I pat it over the skin with either my fingertips or a damp beauty sponge.  I have pretty fair skin, but this is light enough without being too white.

The consistency is very creamy, and it doesn't dry and flake or crease at all.  If you use it as a concealer though, it won't last.  This works best when patted over the top of foundation or concealer, and lightly set with translucent powder.  I wouldn't recommend it for skin types too much darker than mine, as it will look ashy.


Final Verdict:  A great highlighting product without being shimmery that won't mess with the makeup underneath.

**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.

Yes to Carrots Nourishing Night Cream Review

Yes to Carrots Nourishing Night Cream Review

From the Brand:
Stars aren't the only things that shine at night - so does your beautiful face! With Yes To Carrots Repairing Night Cream , your skin gets that extra evening boost in hydration levels. By promoting moisture retention, it softens, smoothes and firms your face, leaving you emanating a gorgeous, soft, healthy glow, so bright you'll need a sleep mask to catch some zzz's!
• Paraben Free

Retails for:  $19.99


Where to Buy:  Target stores and Target.com, YesToCarrots.com


My Thoughts:  I love this night cream!  It's second only to the Korres Wild Rose + Vitamin C Brightening Sleeping Facial.  This is a nice night cream that is thick enough to give a huge does of hydration without feeling greasy on my skin.  It soaks in quickly and keeps the moisture in my skin all night long.  It's also lightly fragranced with a soft powdery scent, almost like a bit of baby powder but not like a baby lotion.  Hopefully that makes sense!

I also really love that this if formulated without harsh chemicals and no parabens.  The whole Yes To line is great for people who like natural based products.  While I'm all about anti-aging and looking younger, I also don't like to put harsh ingredients on my skin.  My sensitive skin get very irritated with lots of exfoliating acids and chemicals and intense doses of Vitamin A. 


Final Verdict:  Big fan of this night cream!

**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.

Almay Smart Shade Concealer Review

Almay Smart Shade Concealer Review

From the Brand:
Finally a concealer that takes the guesswork out of finding your perfect shade, instantly adjusting to the color of your skin. Conceal minor imperfections on face and dark circles under eyes. Antioxidant blend of grape seed, ginseng and ginkgo biloba nurtures your skin for a beautiful, natural finish every time.

Retails for:  $8.99

Where to Buy: Anywhere drugstore makeup is sold, such as Ulta stores and Ulta.com, Walgreens.com, CVS.com, Target, Walmart, and grocery stores

My Thoughts:  In theory, this is a super cool concept.  How many times have you purchased a concealer thinking it was going to work for you only to find once you're home that it's way too light or too dark?  Me, it's happened countless times.  And it's a huge waste of both time and money.  I thought this would be an awesome solution.  However, it was way too light for me in the shade Light.  It goes on white and is supposed to darken to the correct color once the pigment spheres are I guess crushed and blended over the surface of the skin?  Not a science person like that, so I'm not 100% sure how it's supposed to work.  But this really didn't pick up much color at all and stayed an ugly ashy color on my skin. 

The formula was really nice though.  It was creamy and easy to blend, and it didn't settle into the creases under my eyes.  So I've got to give it that.  It's just not very "smart" on the shade end of things, and I'm usually the lightest shade of concealer in a brand.


Final Verdict:  Not sure if I'll try again with a "darker" shade or just call this a total miss.  Either way, I wasn't impressed.

**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.

Jordana Twist and Shine Lipcolor Review

Jordana Twist and Shine Lipcolor Review

From the Brand:

• Moisturizing Balm Infused with a Light-Weight Stain
• Applies with a Glossy Finish then Transforms into the Perfect Flush of Color

• Long-Lasting
• Retractable, No Sharpening Required

• Paraben-Free

• Made in USA

Retails for:  $2.99


Where to Buy:  JordanaCosmetics.com, Walgreens stores and Walgreens.com


My Thoughts:  I love twist up lip crayons lately, as they are so much more convenient than lipsticks and give the lips a softer more lived in look than an opaque lipstick.  When I'm not wearing gloss, I reach for a lip crayon, and most of the time it's the beautiful sheer flesh color Nude Chic.  It's got a bit of shimmer to it, which I'll admit can get a bit drying and a tiny bit rough on the lips, but the color looks so flattering on my lips with my fair skin tone I'll put up with it.  I just make sure to put some chapstick on my lips first or top with a quick swipe of clear hydrating lip gloss to give a touch of "wet" look and glide.

I'm not a fan of either of the other two colors pictured though.  They are a lot more opaque than I was expecting, and the color is exactly as you see it on tube.  With my red or copper hair (depending on where I am in my coloring routine!), the pinks are just too harsh for my fair skin.  I got them on the recommendation of Emily of Beauty Broadcast (check out her channel here), and they look fabulous on her fair skin with dark brown hair.  I don't remember which video she talks about them in, but I made a note on my phone to pick some up at Walgreens, and the two darker colors were part of that list.  So I'll just assume they were the ones she wore.  If I'm wrong, I'm sure someone on the internet will be happy to prove point it out to me, ha!

Overall, they aren't that hydrating, and they go on with a more satin finish.  If you want a glossier look, you'll need to top it with gloss.  They do last a good amount of time though, so the staining properties are definitely there.

Final Verdict:  Overall, these are a good twist up crayon color for a cheap price.  I've only seen the brand sold at Walgreens, so it may be tricky to get your hands on them without buying sight unseen online.  I know I've seen reviews for some of their products that I don't see sold at Walgreens, but if you find these I'd recommend trying out a color or two.

I Want To Know:  Which brand is your favorite twist up crayon?

**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.

Revlon Scented Nail Polish Review

Revlon Scented Nail Polish Review

From the Brand:  Revlon Parfumerie Scented Nail Enamel is intoxicating color with an irresistible scent. Vibrant shiny shades go on smoothly for flawless color and then dry to light, irresistible fragrances.

• Fragrance revealed when dry
• Light fragrances last all day
• Available in 24 shades.

Retails for:  $5.99

Where to Buy: Anywhere drugstore makeup is sold, such as Ulta stores and Ulta.com, Walgreens.com, CVS.com, Target, Walmart, and grocery stores

My Thoughts:  I remember the days back when I was a kid when I'd put on scented nail polish and I thought I was Little Miss Hot Stuff.  Well, let's just say this has a touch of nostalgia for my youth while being a totally sophisticated grown up way to paint my nails.

I love the formula of the three colors above that I've tried above.  They are the only shades I've purchased, but I definitely would try more.  They go on richly pigmented and very creamy, and they don't streak.  I'd recommend two coats though to get a perfectly even nail. 

My favorite is the yellow, Sunlit Grass.  It's the perfect shade of yellow for my fair skin that doesn't look too acidic or jaundiced.  It's a beautiful warm yellow that instantly makes me think spring.  And despite the name, it doesn't have any green tones to it at all.

The pink, African Tea Rose, is not as pigmented in one coat as the other two, but it's still a gorgeous shade.  It was the first color I was drawn to and the first that I purchased.  There's a hint of blue to the shade without getting too far into the purple range, so I think it would compliment both cool toned skins as well as warm toned skins.  It's the perfect pink for summer time.

The red, China Flowers, is a beautiful warm red without getting too much into the coral range.  It's a true red without the cherry undertones of darker or brighter reds.

The nail polish scents are light, not overpowering at all, and it's really unique how the smell comes out as the polish dries.  I wish it lasted longer than a day, but of course it's not really plausible.  The finish of the polish is a smooth creamy finish with no shimmer on any of these three colors.  Although, in the stores I've seen shades with some beautiful shimmers.  There's a huge range of colors, too!

Even the packaging is awesome on these.  I love the little glass bottles with the round black tops.  Something about them is just feminine to me and appeals to my inner girl.  I like displaying them in my bathroom rather than hiding them under the counter in a shoebox.  They stand out from the endless sea of uninteresting bottles of nail polish.  Almost like a perfume bottle rather than nail polish.  Or maybe I'm just seeing things?  Am I the only one who gets that vibe from these?  I mean the "Parfumerie" isn't just an allusion to the smell, right?


Final Verdict:  LOVE!  These are the first three, and I can't wait to get some more when Ulta does some kind of Buy One, Get One sort of sale on Revlon products.

Today I want to know: Who else has tried these nail polishes?  Did you like them?  How long do you feel the scent lasts?  Have you reviewed them for your blog or YouTube channel?  Post the link below so we can all check you out!

**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.

Almay Clear Complexion Concealer Review

Almay Clear Complexion Concealer Review

From the Brand:
Blemisheal Technology contains salicylic acid to heal and conceal blemishes for an even complexion. Mineral complex absorbs oil. Aloe and chamomile soothe skin to help reduce redness.

Retails for:  $6.99


Where to Buy:  Drugstore.com, Walgreens.com, Ulta.com, and wherever you buy drugstore makeup



My Thoughts:  First, have you read my review of the Almay Clear Complexion Foundation?  No?  Be sure to check that out {HERE} after you're done reading this one!  I've got a video so you can see it in action, too.  {By the way, do you like the accompanying video reviews?  Want to see more?  Let me know in the comments below!}

Ok, moving on.... Let's get to the concealer!

This stuff is amazing.  It's truly one of my favorite concealers of all time for breakouts.  It matches my skin perfectly, so I can use it directly on my face.  And it really does work on helping heal my acne.  I wouldn't use it under my eyes at all.  It's too irritating for the delicate undereye area, and it's drying.  I notice a reduction in the size of my breakout within a few hours, and after a few days it's pretty much gone.

The only downside I think is that it's on a wand applicator.  I don't want to dab that directly onto the breakout, as that would put bacteria into the tube of makeup and contaminate it.  Even if the makeup itself has antibacterial properties, it's still not a sanitary way to apply makeup to a breakout.  I have to put some onto the back of my hand and then dab it on with my fingertip or a qtip.  I don't even really like using a concealer brush to cover breakouts.  I'm just too nit picky about contamination, and even being a makeup artist I know I don't wash my own brushes often enough.  In the morning when I'm in a rush to get ready and out the door, I don't want to wash my brushes every time.  And the same applies at night when I'm lucky if I don't crash without taking my makeup off.  And so it goes that I don't wash my brushes as often as I should.  *tsk tsk me!*

It also lasts a good deal throughout the day.  For when my face isn't in need of an all over blemish fighting foundation, like the Almay Clear Complexion Foundation, this does the trick perfectly.  I only have to touch up the concealer maybe once or twice, and that's more often because it's around my mouth, and I eat and drink a lot during the day.  It's also really good at covering the redness from a breakout.  You know how sometimes you can put on a concealer, but after a while the redness starts to show through?  Not with this one!

I love that this is a concealer that does double duty- it fights breakouts while helping to conceal them!  You should be using a different concealer for breakouts than you do for your undereyes anyway, since the areas need different formulations to give you the best finish and wear.


Final Verdict:  If you can find a shade to match your skin perfectly, I'd highly recommend this!  Even if it's just a tad off, you can put this under your foundation and just lightly sponge a bit of foundation over the top to get a nice even blend to the face.  It puts the blemish fighting ingredients right up against the skin anyway.

I want to know!  What's your favorite concealer to cover breakouts?  Do you have a Holy Grail concealer you think I should try?  Let me know below!

**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.

Jesse's Girl Liquid Eyeliner Review

Jesse's Girl Liquid Eyeliner Review

From the Brand:
Our unique Japanese calligraphy-style brush allows for precise, super-fine application that lets you create lines as small as one millimeter thickness! Combined with a formula that dries super-quick (for a waterproof, smudge-proof application), our liquid eyeliner glides on smoothly without tugging or pulling.

.017oz/5ml

BLACK ONLY

Retails for:  $6.99


Where to Buy:  JessesGirlCosmetics.com


My Thoughts:  I got this in an IPSY back forever ago.  I'd never heard of Jesse's Girl products before, and I love trying out new brands.  I'm always a bit skeptical of unknown brands with low price points that show up in these monthly subscription boxes, but half the fun is never knowing what diamonds in the rough you'll discover.  This for me is one of those diamonds.

The liner glides on very smoothly with no tugging, and the tip is the perfect felt pen shape.  Sometimes I think the liner tips are too long, too thick, or too blunt at the end.  This gives me great control over the shape and width of the line to create a variety of looks from very simple to dramatic graphic lines.

The color comes only in black, which is a bummer.  I'd prefer if it came in more options, since I like this so much.  The black is a nice rich color though, and I don't need to layer it for an intense effect like some cheap liners.  I challenge the waterproof claim on this liner though.  It lasts a good 7-8 hours, so it's not slacking in that department, but I'm at the makeup studio for a good 9 hours or more a day, plus two hours total of commute, so I usually reach for waterproof liners to keep my makeup looking fresh from dawn to dusk.  This does come off with water alone, so I wouldn't classify it as waterproof.

The packaging is also very sharp for a drugstore range product.  The sleek silver looks very high end, is good quality, and fits nicely in my makeup bag.

Final Verdict:  A definite must try if you're a fan of liquid eyeliner.

I Want To Know:  What diamonds in the rough have you discovered lately that you think the world needs to know about?  Share your thoughts/blog/reviews below and spread the love!

**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.

The One Stick by Be A Bombshell Cosmetics Review

The One Stick by Be A Bombshell Cosmetics Review

From the Brand:
Formula: An all-in-one multiple stick with a smooth texture.
Bombshell Application: Apply to eyelids, cheeks or lips for the perfect pop of color anywhere!
Bombshell Tip: Apply as you would regular eyeshadow, blush or lip gloss.

Retails for:  $16.00

Where to Buy:  BeABombeshellCosmetics.com, IPSY.com


My Thoughts:  I got this in an IPSY bag a while back, and it's been sitting on my makeup counter in my "to be tested" box staring me in the face every morning as I get ready.  I finally broke this out the other day and tried it on my cheeks and on my lips to get a feel for both the color payout, the formula, and it's overall versatility as a multi-tasking makeup stick.

Color Payout-  The shade is a light frosty bubblegum pink, so I wasn't expecting anything too shockingly pigmented or bright, and that's exactly what I got: something not shockingly pigmented and not bright.  On the cheeks, it went ok with my fair skin tone but definitely could use a touch of powder blush to look a little more "alive".  It looks almost more like a pink highlighter than a stand alone blush.  After trying it on my cheeks, I didn't even bother on my eyes.  On my lips, I looked like I had a disease. The shade was not flattering at all.

The Formula-  I didn't find that this product lasted very long at all.  There wasn't much color to the cheeks to begin with, and alone it quickly dissolved into my foundation and left me feeling washed out.  When I tried it a second time with some blush dusted on top to help perk up the color and "set" the creaminess of the stick, it gave me a longer wear.   However, it did start to break down my foundation, which wore away sooner and took all the color on top with it.  On the face, I wasn't impressed with it's performance at all.  On my lips, oh geeze.  It chunked up and clung to any minor imperfections, and within a few minutes had moved around and settled.  Again, it looked like I had lips that were peeling off from a disease.  Still firmly in the not flattering category on this aspect as well.

Multi-Tasking-  It didn't work well on my cheeks, so I wouldn't expect it to work well on my eyelids which are more oily, crease, move, and have more heat transfer from the thin skin.  If it can't sit still on my cheeks, I can't see how it would work as an eye shadow.  And the lips, it was really quite horrendous looking.  I applied it in the bathroom, walked downstairs and straight out to my car, where I promptly was horrified at my reflection in the rear view mirror as I was backing out of the driveway.  I'm so thankful I caught a glimpse of myself before I made it all the way to work like that!  Horrified counts as not flattering, right?


Final Verdict:  Big fail.  Glad I didn't spend my own money on it, as I would have returned it right away.  There was nothing I liked about this product.  I'm really disappointed as I absolutely LOVE my powder blush from Be A Bombshell Cosmetics I got from IPSY last year!

Talk to me!  Have you tried this?  Are you an IPSY girl, too and have gotten this or other Be A Bombshell products in your bags?  What are your thoughts?!  SHARE THEM HERE! {Wondering what the heck IPSY is?  Check it out now and join thousands of other women who are already a member!}

**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.

Maybelline Baby Skin Review

Maybelline Baby Skin Review

From the Brand:
Poreless Smooth Skin Perfection! One second to smooth, poreless skin. Get mistake- proof, poreless smooth skin with Maybelline New York Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer.

• Poreless Smooth Skin Perfection!
• One Second To Smooth, Poreless Skin
• Visibly Pore Blurring Smooth Skin

Retails for:  $6.99


Where to Buy:  You know the drill, anywhere drugstore brand makeup is found, but just in case, here's a few of my favorite places to shop:  Walgreens.com, Ulta.com, Drugstore.com


My Thoughts: I purchased this foundation primer to see how it would hold up on clients in the photo studio as a cheaper alternative to higher end silicone primers like the Smashbox Photo Finish Primer.  I'd seen some people on YouTube talking about how much they liked it, and for only $6.99 decided to give it a go.  I can't use anything with dimethicone (a form of silicone commonly found in primers) on my skin, since I'm allergic, but I tested it out on several clients under my silicone Face Atelier foundations to see how it did on a variety of different skin types.

I wasn't very impressed with this primer, much as I'm usually not too impressed with silicone primers.  I really like to buff the foundation over the surface of the skin when I'm working with a liquid and brush, and I never seem to get the perfect finish I want when I'm doing this over a silicone primer.  I find that unless you really work it over the surface of the skin and use just the tiniest bit they tend to roll up on the skin and not sit in place when buffing the foundation over.  They work great when I'm airbrushing foundation over the surface, as I'm not touching the primer once it's laid down.  When applying makeup to someone else, it's kind of weird to sit there and rub their face.  But that's just how I am.  I prefer a thin primer with an almost serum-like consistency that sinks down into the skin to hydrate and lightly "plump" the skin rather than something that sits over the surface.

That all being said, if you do use just a tiny bit of this and really work it over the surface of the skin, it's a good primer to fill in the pores and create a more even surface for foundation.  Just don't try to buff the skin with a flat kabuki style foundation brush.  I can make it work with my Face Atelier by using a small dual fiber brush to stipple and then smooth out the foundation lightly without disturbing the primer underneath or even better with a blender sponge.  The best option is just to airbrush, but I don't bring that to the photo studio.

I'm not able to comment on how well it works at adding longevity to the makeup, since most of our clients take their makeup off before they leave the studio.  (It's boudoir, so 1. It's a heavier look to wear just around town, and 2. It's usually a surprise.)  It seems to dull shine just a bit, even under the lights or on warm days.  On really oily skins though it's not heavy duty enough to mattify the skin, and I need to powder and use a mattifying spray on top of the makeup.



Final Verdict:  It's a decent silicone style primer to have on hand if you can't afford the more expensive prestige brands, but it doesn't live up to my favorites like the Too Faced Primed and Poreless or Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer.

**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.

Revlon Photoready 3D Volume Mascara Review

Revlon Photoready 3D Volume Mascara Review

From the Brand:
Get glamorous, big volume lashes from every angle
Lashes look 100% more magnified, multiplied, amplified*. Award winning.
*with two coats 
Lash finding brush with rounded tip easily reaches every single lash for maximum dimension.

Available in 3 non-waterproof shades: Blackest Black, Black, and Blackened Brown 

Retails for:  $6.99 and up depending on where you buy


Where to Buy:  Wherever drugstore makeup is sold, including Walmart, Walgreens, CVS, Target, and Drugstore.com

My Thoughts:  First off, I love the wand on this mascara.  It defines and separates my lashes so perfectly.  It's a little pokey, so make sure you don't accidentally jab yourself in the eye with this the first time like I did.  It's nice and long without being too thick and bulky, so it fits in nicely in the inner and outer corners of my eyes to get the lashes perfectly.  It also has a little half ball shape on the tip to comb through the tiny lashes at the inner and outer corners of the eyes.  Overall, it's perfect for the inner and outer corners!

My lashes are very straight, and 90% of mascaras weigh them down and make them lose their curl no matter what I do.  I'm a professional makeup artist, and I've tried every trick in the book to get them to keep their curl.  Nothing works with some mascaras.  I think it's just their weight that makes the lashes lose the curl.  A nice thing mascara that dries quickly and a little on the stiff side locks in the curl before it can fall.  This mascara is perfect for that.  The formula is thin and dries quickly, but it can be layered really well to build up the volume.  Combined with the nice brush, it combs them out and gives them very fluffy flirty volume rather than thick clumpy volume.  With one coat, I get definition and locked in curl with a nice rich black color.  Looks very natural but amplified.  Two coats is when I get the perfect volume, which I love because I can get multiple looks with the same mascara.


Final Verdict:  In addition to the Covergirl Bombshell Volume Mascara, this is my new second favorite drugstore mascara.  It's one of those "on a whim" purchases I'm so thankful for!



Final Verdict:

**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.

Covergirl Bombshell Volume Mascara Review

Covergirl Bombshell Volume Mascara Review

From the Brand:
Mega volume and dark intensity in one mascara for an over the top bombshell look from Cover Girl. Step 1 volumize - load on for unbelievably big volume - Step 2 - intensify - seal in with one coat for an intense, dark all day finish. Beautifully separated lashes.

Retails for:  $11.99


Where to Buy:  Ulta stores and Ulta.com, CVS.com and CVS stores, Drugstore.com, and anywhere else you can purchase Covergirl brand products

My Thoughts:  This mascara lasts forever.  Like seriously, for-ev-er.  It's not even waterproof.  I can put it on in the morning, and even if my eyes water or it's super humid out (as it's prone to be here in northern Virginia) this won't budge, smudge, or flake.  You can check out my video review below for what a difference it makes on my lashes, too!

Side 1 is the volumizing side, and it's definitely a "lash blast" mascara with the shape of the wand and the consistency of the mascara itself.  It's very similar to my LashBlast Fusion Mascara I reviewed back in September.  {Check out that review here.}  The major difference though is this mascara has a second side that adds another layer of intense color, and I'm convinced is what makes it last so long.

Side 2 is a generic mascara wand, and I don't think it's very useful in separating my lashes or adding any length.  The first side adds all the volume, and it would be nice if this one had a comb or at the very least long spikey spokes to help separate the lashes.  I have to stop in between the steps and get a metal lash comb to keep my lashes from clumping.

It's a little higher priced for a drugstore mascara being $11.99, since most I purchase are around $8.99 or so, but it's worth the few extra dollars.  I've found myself using drugstore mascara all the time now rather than my higher end brands.  I can two or three tubes for what I'd pay for a prestige brand, and even if I have to layer them I'm still getting more for my buck.


Final Verdict:  A new Holy Grail Mascara?  I'd say so!  I hope and pray Covergirl keeps this one around!


Want to see this in action?  Check out my video review!

**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.

L'Oreal Magic Nude Liquid Powder Review

L'Oreal Magic Nude Liquid Powder Review

From the Brand:
Get the ultimate un-makeup look with Magic Nude Liquid Powder Bare Skin Perfecting Makeup with SPF 18. Revolutionary liquid transforms on contact, leaving a soft powder like finish. This foundation is so amazingly lightweight it's like wearing no makeup at all! Just shake and apply - it's magic!

Retails for:  $12.99


Where to Buy:  Anywhere drugstore makeup is sold, such as Ulta stores and Ulta.com, Walgreens.com, CVS.com, Target, Walmart, and grocery stores


My Thoughts:  This stuff is really quite an interesting makeup.  The term liquid powder sounds weird, but it does dry to a nice powdery finish.  Not an overly dry looking super matte finish, but like it's been softly powdered very naturally.  I love it.  The color matched my difficult skin pretty easily, although I think I got lucky in that respect.  The bottle is a little difficult to gauge color, but it's not that off from how it dries.  It can oxidize just a tad, and I could see that being a problem on more oily skintones.  So make sure you purchase it from a retailer that will let you exchange for another color if it doesn't work out for you.

It does feel quite weightless, too.  I didn't even feel I had anything on.  It's definitely wet when you first apply, so there's that sensation, but it in no way feels cakey or thick once it's set.  If you've got the right color to go with your skin tone, it's pretty natural looking on the skin as well.  It was able to even my skin tone out without covering my freckles to the point where it was obvious I was wearing foundation. My skin is really hard to find a match for, since the freckles make my face appear much darker than my neck which is pale from no contact with the sun and devoid of freckles.  I have to put a lot of bronzer on my neck or wear shirts that minimize the appearance of a pasty neck. 

My only concern is with how long this foundation lasts.  I would give it a solid 5-6 hours before it does start to break down.  And that's with my dry skin.  Again, I'd be a little hesitant with oilier skin tones.  I think it applies best to the skin with a buffing style brush, like the one I use in the video from Real Techniques.  It was too thin to apply with my Qosmedix makeup sponge or Beauty Blender.  It seeped into the sponge too much.  Also, since the sponge was damp, it interfered with the formulation.  The foundation went on a bit splotchy and didn't set.


Final Verdict:  This is one of my foundations I keep in my collection for days when I just need to throw on something to look nice for a little while, such as for a meeting or one of my kids' school functions.  It's pretty inexpensive when compared with high end products, so I don't mind having it on hand for just a whenever kind of look.  It's a total holy grail product for me as far as drugstore products go.  



Want to see it in action?  Check out this review video!

**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.