I hope your new year is going well so far! So far this year I have signed up to a gym (yuck!), started a skincare project pan and decluttered lots of makeup! I’m trying to organize my large stash and get fit. Oh and read more. LOL! We’ll see what happens!
My faves this week include skincare to brighten dull winter skin and natural eye makeup for a bold eye:
KORRES Wild Rose Exfoliating Cleanser
KORRES Wild Rose Smoothie Brightening Priming Moisturiser
KORRES Wild Rose Exfoliating Cleanser ($28 USD) — Brightening exfoliating cleanser powered by wild rose oil to improve skin’s overall radiance and texture. This cleanser exfoliates skin naturally using a dual-action process to uncover even, luminous skin.
What I think: First, the fragrance of these are so nice. They smell lightly of fresh roses, not a synthetic smell. The exfoliating cleanser really sloughs off the rough skin revealing soft and smooth skin. Plus it is gentle enough to use on my sensitive skin. The priming moisturizer does double duty as it hydrates and smooths my skin, getting it ready for makeup. I love that both of these are natural and help brighten my skin.
Purchase at Sephora and other fine beauty stores
Jane Iredale PurePressed Eye Shadow Triple in Soft Kiss
Jane Iredale PurePressed Eye Shadow in Blue Hour
Jane Irdale Mystikol Powdered Eyeliner in Onyx
Jane Iredale PurePressed Eye Shadow Triple in Soft Kiss ($30 USD) — From elegant to edgy, these silky, richly-pigmented, long-lasting and easily blended eye shadows can create any look. Use them wet or dry; they’re gentle and safe for sensitive eyes.
Jane Iredale PurePressed Eye Shadow in Blue Hour ($22 USD) — Enhance the color and shape of your eye with our light-diffusing, highly-pigmented pressed eye shadow. Easily blended, it glides on wet or dry and stays crease-free. Safe for sensitive eyes.
Jane Irdale Mystikol Powdered Eyeliner in Onyx ($24 USD) — Create the sexy look you love with new improved Mystikol Powdered Eyeliners! The built-in brush makes a perfect line or smudged-out smoky eye. The powder/cream formula makes a shadow that won’t fade, crease or smear.
What I think: Dramatic eye looks are easy with these gorgeous, natural products. The shadow triples and singles come in tons of different shades, so you can create the perfect look for you. They are very smooth and well pigmented, too.
I also LOVE the Mystikol eyeliner. I have this in a few shades and I love how easy it is to use. It glides on so easy and the brush can help draw thick or thin lines. It lasts all day, too.
I purchased this palette for myself on Christmas Eve. Ulta had it on sale for $33 and it was 20% off on top of that. I know I’m probably the last blogger on earth to own this, but I just had to see what all of the hype was about!
This palette normally sell for $42 at Ulta and other beauty stores. I first want to say I was looking forward to quality in the packaging as well as the shadows, and I wan’t let down. It’s a heave palette. I love the velvet dusty pink cover. I also love that there is a mirror and brush included. I also want to mention the formula. It’s really pigmented and rich. A little goes a long way. There is kick up in the pan, but I was expecting that from reviews I have read about this brand. It’s not too bad, though.
The shades are:
Tempera (velvety beige w/ an ultra-matte finish)
Golden Ochre (earthy yellow w/ an ultra-matte finish)
Vermeer (iridescent shell w/ a metallic finish)
Buon Fresco (antique lavender w/ an ultra- matte finish)
Antique Bronze (metallic sable w/ a satin finish)
Love Letter (raspberry w/ an ultra-matte finish)
Cyprus Umber (dark coffee w/ an ultra-matte finish)
Raw Sienna (neutral amber w/ an ultra-matte finish)
Burnt Orange (deep orange w/ an ultra-matte finish)
Primavera (shimmery gold dust w/ an ultra-matte finish)
Red Ochre (sienna w/ an ultra-matte finish)
Venetian Red (crimson w/ an ultra-matte finish)
Warm Taupe (earthy gray w/ an ultra-matte finish)
Realgar (brick w/ an ultra-matte finish)
Here are my swatches:
This is the top row — Tempera, Golden Ochre, Vermeer, Buon Fresco, Antique Bronze, Love Letter, and Cyprus Umber. Our of these, I love Tempera, to use as a base, Vermeer because it’s shimmery and perfect, and Buon Fresco because it’s so different. I am still playing with all of these, so will probably have more faves soon!
The bottom row is Raw Sienna, Burnt Orange, Primavera, Red Ochre, Venetian Red, Warm Taup and Realgar. Both Raw Sienna and Burnt Orange are gorgeous lid colors and Red Ochre is amazing in my crease. I love Primavera because shimmers are my favorites and I used Warm Taupe on my lid today and it looked really warm and chocolatey!
I love the different tones in this. I’m not the biggest fan of warm colors all the time, so I love that there are reds and a pretty lavender in this, plus the wonderful shimmers. There are so many looks that I can get out of this one palette. I have a prediction that it may be my go-to palette in 2018.
First, I want to say that I got all of these amazing products on sale at Colourpop! Today is the last day for the sale. Almost all items are 20%, 30% or 40% off. So shop now!
I had a little bit of Christmas money left (after buying tons for others), so I decide to take advantage of this sale. I purchased on Christmas Day, and the Golden State of Mind palette was free if you spent $50. So I did!
I mostly went for eye shadow palettes because Colourpop’s palettes are stunning and affordable! I only had Yes, PIease! (reviewed here) and She (review coming) before these new beauties.
I haven’t swatched these yet, so let me know is you would like a review of any of these products.
Here are the items I chose:
LEGIT AF Highlighter Trio ($24 on sale for $14.40) — These Super Shock Highlighters include Over the Moon a sheer opalescent pearl with hot pink and violet glitters, Spoon A light silver champagne with multi-dimensional glitter and Wisp a golden champagne with gold pearls. They are all really pretty, but quite a bit of glitter!
BRINK Lippie Stix ($5 on sale for $4) — This looks darker than I thought it would be. It’as a matte terracotta rose, so it is really pretty. I love how hydrating these lippie sticks are, even with the matte finish.
YOU HAD ME AT HELLO ($18 on sale for $10.80) — This is the first and maybe only Colourpop eye shadow palette with a mirror. I’ve had my eyes on it for a while because the shades are so gorgeous for day and night! I love the golds, mauves and browns together. They include:
The Knot: metallic cool-toned ivory
Moon Struck: metallic soft gold
Two Peas: matte peachy beige
Candygram: metallic pinky red with gold duochrome
Winning Ticket: matte dusty mauve pink
FBO: metallic pink violet
Look-See: matte cool-toned plum
Fool’s Rush: metallic golden bronze
Pulling Strings: matte warm saddle brown
Want U Back: matte dusty mauve brown
DTR: metallic silvery taupe
Sparks Fly: matte deep plummy brown
I THINK I LOVE YOU ($16 on sale for $12.80) — My 18 year old daughter chose this palette. It is warm and bronzy, but she told me she wanted the yellow-gold shade on the bottom. Maybe it reminders her of Fenty’s Trophy Wife??? Even though it’s hers I might ask if I can play with it, because the colors are super gorgeous! Here are the shades:
Bitter Better: metallic soft gold
Bel Air: matte cool taupe
Fancy Face: metallic bright red copper
Girls Bite: metallic golden bronze
Howdy: metallic red bronze
Rowdy: matte warm ivory
My Treat: metallic champagne ivory
Level Up: metallic bright penny copper
Screw It: metallic soft rose gold
Let’s Do It: matte true black
Rule Breaker: metallic bright yellow gold
My Type: matte deep saddle brown
MY LITTLE PONY PALETTE ($16 on sale for $11.20) — First of all — THIS PACKAGING! So fun and gorgeous! My aforementioned daughter collected the retro My Little Ponies whens she was 3-6 years old, she had so many! This reminds me of that! These shades are colorful and sparkly, just like the toys. I haven’t played with it yet, but I’m looking forward to it. I think it will be really fun for spring. Shades are:
Butterscotch: white with subtle pink violet opalescent sheen
Blossom: metallic peach with pink and gold duochrome finish
Starshine: metallic golden tangerine
Bluebell: satin golden ivory
Applejack: matte dusty red violet
Skydancer: metallic bright icy lavender
Minty: matte cool-toned fuchsia
Flutterbye: matte true pastel peach
Twilight: satin deep blackened violet
Firefly: metallic silvery baby blue
Snuzzle: metallic icy white with opalescent blue duochrome
Princess Sparkle: metallic rich smokey turquoise
GOLDEN STATE OF MIND ($26 on sale for $15.60) — this is one that is also sold on Sephora.com. This is a really glittery palette, all shimmers and glitters! This formula is really creamy and I find it best applied with my fingers or a damp brush. I received this free with my $50 purchase.
Golden Egg: pinky beige with turquoise glitter
Pay the Piper: icy blue
GRLFRND: pink with violet glitter
Zero Clue: vibrant warm yellow
Watch Out: golden ivory with pink glitter
Drizzle: icy baby pink
Uptight: rose gold
Can’t Stop: icy champagne ivory
Sparkler: silvery bronze
Unsupervised: pink champagne
Lust in Time: medium cool rose
Mind Tricks: icy blackened purple
Wing Woman: red brown with green and gold glitter
Heads or Tales: icy cranberry
Tinker Time: blackened antique gold with blue glitter
So that’s my recent Colourpop Haul! I have just starting playing with these beauties, but will probably be review them soon!
I’ve been looking back at my favorite and most used beauty products — new discoveries. I have noticed that all above are makeup and not skincare. This is curious, since I am a 40-something blogger who loves trying anti-aging products. I guess I didn’t really find anything amazing in skin care last year. This year I’m going to focus more on finding and using (I get lazy) anti-aging skin care, plus using up the ones I have. Tomorrow will be the start of my first Project Pan, skin care exclusive!
But today, I am reflecting on the gorgeous makeup above, some I use every day:
Ofra Beverly Hills Highlighter ($40 USD) — I was sent a bunch of amazing Ofra products for review in August (see review here). I love a lot of it, but this is the product that I use most often. I love that there are 5 shades, I can blend them together or use one or two on their own. The two largest pans, a soft gold and rose gold are my favorites and I love using them together. This is the product that really got me interested in highlighters and I use it more because it this one!
IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealing Pot ($28 USD) — I received this and the foundation for review (here). I use both products almost every day. I love this because it is so creamy. I use it under my eye, but also all over the face. It’s great for covering redness. I’ve recently bought a new concealer with a drier texture for under my eye (so it will stay put), but I will continue to use this to cover rednes.
LORAC Pirates of The Caribbean Mod Lip Cream Duo ($26, on sale for $13) — I received a bunch of these this year. Although I announced it on my blog here, I only reviewed the eye shadow palette. On one end is a creamy lipstick and the other end is a natural looking lip gloss, not too shiny or sticky. These are gorgeous alone or layered. The shade in the photo is Risk it All.
LORAC Disney Beauty and The Beast Cheek Palette ($28 USD) — I love this whole collection. I use the eye shadow and the lip glosses a lot. This has four gorgeous colors that can be used separately or blended together. There are also mattes and shimmers for a variety of looks. So pretty!
Huda Beauty Mauve Obsessions Eyeshadow Palette ($27 USD) — I purchased this on Black Friday because I had been wanting to try it since it came out. It’s tiny, but the pan sizes are nice, they take up the whole palette, no unused space. They shades are so pretty and I can make a few different looks with them. This is one I can take with my on trips because it’s so portable. You can see my review here.
COVER FXIlluminating Setting Spray ($31 USD) – I received this in my November BoxyCharm. I have really just started using setting sprays this year and was really excited to try this one. It has been working so well for me in the cold weather. My skin has been dry and a bit dull. This spray gives my skin hydration and nice dewy skin. It’s not greasy on me at all, but I will probably use a matte spray in hot weather. Plus, it keeps my makeup fresh all day!
BENEFIT COSMETICS Roller Lash Curling & Lifting Mascara ($24 USD) — I purchased this during Ulta Beauty’s 21 days of Beauty event this fall. It is now one of my favorite all time mascaras! It grabs all of my lashes, lengthens and curls them. I have tiny lashes, and this makes them look long and lush! I just had to toss it because it’s been 3 months, and I’m so sad! But, I’m sure I’ll purchase it again.
IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Lines Foundation ($38 USD) — This is a serum foundation. It’s really light and I’d say a medium coverage. I am looking for a heavier coverage for the new year, but this has been a nice foundation. It blends really well and looks so natural. Plus, I love that it’s good for my skin.
Tomorrow, hopefully, I will post my first ever Project Pan. It will be for the skincare I want to use up in the next three months. Wish me luck!
I received my BoxyCharm December 2017 box a couple of weeks ago, and it’s taking me a while to get to it! My anniversary, my daughter’s birthday and Christmas have left me behind a bit on my blog!
Boxycharm is just $21 a month for 5-6 beauty items, most of them full-sized.
The Real Her Blush Kit is a very shimmery blush palette. I really like the color Fearless on the left, which is a pretty pink. Limitless is a nice coral and Unstoppable is bronze. All of the color cosmetics I received will be swatched below.
I do like blush with a bit of shimmer, but this is pretty sparkly. I can see using this in the summer time, especially Fearless and Unstoppable. I also like the packaging. It’s a heavy duty cardboard and will be easy to travel with.
I’m always so happy when brushes are included in BoxyCharm! I love trying new brushes, and this one is great! The bristles are densely packed and really soft. I like how it’s oval shaped, it can be used for blush, highlight or bronzer. The handle is sturdy plastic with indentations for grip.
This is the second time I’ve tried the Tartiest mascara. It has hard rubber bristles instead of more natural ones. It’s okay, and can be built up for length and volume, but it never gets super glam like tarte’s Lights, Camera Lashes or IT Cosmetics Superhero. It is a good everyday mascara.
The Pretty Vulgar (great name) lip gloss is metallic and pretty sticky, but it’s okay. I probably won’t use it often.
The Bellapierre Pro Concealer Palette is very pigmented. I tried the orange under my eyes. It didn’t blend well, but my concealer did cover the orange up and it looked okay. I probably won’t use again.
Here are swatches of all of the color products:
The first three colors are the color correcter palette, the second three are the blush and the lip color is the last swatch. The only thing I really like are the first and third blush colors.
So this month was okay, but nothing wowed me. I will use the blush brush and mascara. I might use the blush palette. I probably won’t wear the lip color and I definitely will toss the color correction palette. What’s interesting about BoxyCharm is that they always have a couple decent brands, plus a few meh or poor quality brands/products. But, at $21, the value is amazing!
Next month, the spoilers are IT Cosmetics Brow Power brow pencil, DR. BRANDT SKINCARE pores no more® Luminizer Primer, Crown Glam Metals Palette and a face palette from an unknown brand. If those sound good to you (for $21), you can join here There may be a wait list, and that is my affiliate link.
PANTONE 18-3838 Ultra Violet has officially been named the Pantone Color of the Year.The color is described as being a “dramatically provocative and thoughtful purple shade that communicates originality, ingenuity, and visionary thinking that points us toward the future.”
Enigmatic purples have long been symbolic of artistic brilliance. Musical icons Prince, David Bowie, and Jimi Hendrix brought shades of Ultra Violet to the forefront of pop culture as personal expressions of individuality. My makeup picks below will make you look and feel bright and cool, and maybe give you inspiration for the new year!
Pixi Beauty Mesmerizing Mineral Palette in Amethyst Aura
Pixi Beauty Mesmerizing Mineral Palette in Amethyst Aura ($6 USD) — A swish of these shadows illuminates eyes while adding depth and dimension. They are super affordable and come in a beautiful range of violets. They have a nice pigmentation, too.
Pixi Beauty Endless Silky Eye Pen in Velvet Violet
Pixi Beauty Endless Silky Eye Pen in Velvet Violet ($6 USD) — Waterproof, super-long-wear, no-smudge, no-budge eye liners. They glide on like seamless silk, and in a single sweep motion create a flawless, solid jewel-toned line. No retouching required all day – or night! The shade is a light violet, but it looks really pretty with light or no shadows for a fun, day look.
Cargo Cosmetics Swimmables Eye Pencil in Karon Beach
Cargo Cosmetics Swimmables™ Eye Pencil in Karon Beach ($18 USD) – The ultra-creamy, richly pigmented formula glides on effortlessly for precise lining. Allows blending time before setting for a variety of looks. Once set, liner is waterproof and smudge proof! It won’t budge until you decide to take it off.
Also purchase at at Kohl’s/Kohls.com and Ulta.com
Pop Beauty Permanent Pout Liquid Lipstick
Pop Beauty Permanent Pout Liquid Lipstick in OMG Violet — ($14 USD) – Get pouty with this full-coverage lip paint’s velvet, matte finish. Extremely long-wearing and kiss-proof, these lip colours are audacious! Lasts all-day & all-night. Paraben free. Not tested on animals.
Purchase at www.popbeauty.com
Sally Hansen Color Therapy in Plum Euphoria
Sally Hansen Color Therapy in Plum Euphoria ($8.99) — The patented argan oil formula fuses intensive nourishment and instant moisture for healthy looking nails.Up to 10 days of fade-proof, chip-resistant wear.
The Pantone Color of the year for 2018 has been announced and the stunning shade of ultra violet is sure to be a stunner in all areas of beauty! The new Sally Hansen Color Therapy Shade Plum Euphoria will launch in January 2018.
Caption Polish in Enough Already
Caption Polish in Enough Already ($9.99 USD) — Lock in your look with the Caption system. Caption Nail Polish with LacQ3 Technology wears tough as gel with a mirror-like shine. Air dries 3Xs faster than regular polish. Stay chip-free 2-3Xs longer. Non-UV. Soak-free instant removal.
Purchase at www.captionpolish.com
John Frieda Hair Care Frizz Ease
Ultra Violet represents originality, ingenuity and visionary thinking – which makes it the perfect new color and look for the iconic John Frieda Hair Care Frizz Ease collection.
John Frieda Frizz Ease has been on shelves for over a quarter of a century, keeping their innovative and revolutionary products the leader in fighting frizz. Whether it’s a cult classic that smooths hair for every look or a shampoo that moisturizes and hydrates, John Frieda Frizz Ease is there for you no matter what you need.
Are you picking up any Ultra Violet products to rock in 2018? Are you a fan of the color?
I recently received Gigi Hadid/Maybelline New York products for my honest review. I was so excited to receive them and have enjoyed trying them out!
My overall impressions of the packaging is that it’s gorgeous, kind of a soft nude pink. It’s really elegant, but I don’t know if we need Gigi’s signature all over each product!
Plus, you can purchase the entire collection for 30% off at Ulta.com and Ulta stores nationwide!
Here are the items I received:
Gigi Hadid East Coast Glam Eye Contour Palette ($14.99 on sale for $10.49) — These shades are soft and perfect for every day looks. I received the cool shades, but there is also a warm palette. There’s a tiny bit of shimmer in these that you can see in the pan, but it doesn’t really show when I wear them, so I would call them a satin finish, and there is a little kick up in the pan. Also, you need a fairly small brush because the pans are quite narrow. But this is an affordable little palette that is super portable.
Gigi Hadid West Coast Glow Eyeshadow Palette ($14.99 on sale for $10.49) — This is my favorite of the two palettes I received. It has a super glam feel to it, while still being a bit natural. I am more of a cool toned girls in eyes shadows — that’s my preference. But this also has a bit of warm colors to equalize the palette and to help create lots of great looks. I think this palette could be thrown in my makeup bag with the eye contour palette for some amazing looks while on vacation! The glitters are gorgeous and are amazing for evening looks, mixed with the satins. Love!
Gigi Hadid East Coast Glam Fiber Mascara ($12.99 on sale for $9.09) — First of all, sorry for the shadows, I had forgotten to take these photos with the rest and took them later in the day. You can see the fibers on the left had side though. There are a lot of them. I do have to say that the mascara alone gave great volume and definition. The fibers added a bit more, but you don’t really need them. There wasn’t a ton of length added, but enough to make lashes look long and full. Really nice mascara!
I did a group shot of the rest of the products. I’ve only used the nude eyeliner as I don’t wear red lipstick or liner. Here are the products:
Gigi Hadid West Coast Glow Gel Eyeliner ($11.99 on sale for $8.39) — This is a shimmery nude shade, as you can see from the swatch. I’ve used it a couple of ways, on my brow bone and on the inside corner of my eye as a highlighter, and I lined my waterline with them to open my eyes. It lasts a long time and is comfortable to wear. Plus, its a pretty color!
Gigi Hadid West Coast Glow Lip Liner ($7.99 on sale for $5.59) — I read that Gigi likes to apply lipstick first and then line. I might try it sometime, but I line my lips, fill them in with the liner so I won’t have a weird line, then apply the lipstick over. That gives great staying power. I have only swatched this because I don’t wear red, but I will give it to a friend who does. It is a cherry red color, very pretty.
Gigi Hadid West Coast Glow Matte Lipstick ($8.99 on sale for $6.29) — The shade I have is called Khair. It’s an orange red. It has a soft matte finish, not a drying one. Very pretty!
Overall, the products I used are very nice and well pigmented. I recommend the eye shadows and mascara and will continue using them and trying new products from the collection!
Have you used any Maybelline/Gigi Hadid products? What do you think?
As we inch toward Christmas, I have been trying products that help me look and feel better during the hectic season!
They include a luxe primer and setting spray, cruelty-free makeup that makes you look glowy, luxe skincare, a fun steam mask and hair care that will help with dry, winter hair:
Elcie Cosmetics Pearl Radiance Primer ($38 USD) — An oil-free, water-based primer that acts as lingerie for your skin, providing a smooth, seamless and satin-like finish. The formula brightens the complexion with a touch of pearl, boosting luminosity for a healthy and radiant glow. Minimizes the appearance of pores, fine lines and wrinkles.
Elcie Cosmetics Hydra Enhancer Setting Mist ($35 USD) — An innovative hydrating and setting mist that balances the complexion, sets makeup and refreshes the skin. This alkaline facial water is an antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals. It has smaller molecules than tap water, so it absorbs more easily into your skin giving you maximum hydration with a quicker effect, while holding your makeup in place all day. Suitable for all skin types.
What I think: I love the packaging of these products. They are very luxe! The primer smoothes skin for makeup and leaves a soft glow. It so nice under foundation, or on it’s own for a bit of polish. The mist is so refreshing! It’s a soft mist and instantly hydrates and sinks into the skin. It holds my makeup in place all day!
Available at elciecosmetics.com
Did you know the amazing and affordable line essence is cruelty-free? A lot of their products are gluten-free and/or vegan, too:
essence blushplay sculpting blush palette ($5.99 USD) — This palette includes three tonal shades for individual use or the perfect blend to create a multidimensional look. Available in 2 fresh color combinations.
essence shine shine shine lipgloss ($2.99 USD) — This high-shine, wet-look gloss glides on smooth with a highly-pigmented finish. The flocked applicator ensures precise application. Available in 6 shades.
What I think: I do love a blush palette, and this one is fresh and fun to blend and use together, or separately. The one above is the Play in Peach, and it also comes in Play in Pink. The glosses are very shiny, but pigmented too. There’s also a nice clear gloss for a more natural look, or to wear over other lip products.
Vertere Skincare Travel + Discovery Kit ($51 on sale for $28 USD) — This set includes Travel + Discovery sizes of our patented Dramatic Transformation Cream SPF 18 and Refining Treatment Cleanser. This two-week introduction to VERTERE is a perfect companion for traveling, or to gift to friends in need of portable yet highly effective and hydrating wrinkle smoothing and dark spot brightening that won’t clog pores.
What I think: This little kit comes in a cute bag! The cleanser is so nice, it comes in a handy pump despenser and has a refreshing citrus scent. It leaves my skin clean, but hydrated, too. The night cream is not greasy at all, it actually hass a bit of a matte finish, which is interesting for a night cream. In the morning, my skin looks amazing! My skin tone in more even and looks younger!
Purchase at vertereskincare.com
Erborian Pate au Ginseng Concentrated Black Mask
Erborian Pate au Ginseng Concentrated Black Mask ($61 for 1.7 oz) — Formulated with Ginseng root, used for ages in Korea to help fight visible signs of aging, PÂTE AU GINSENG helps improve the appearance of skin’s firmness and elasticity through its tensor effect. With a concentrated dose of Ginseng, and its instant tensor effect, this mask helps your skin feel firmer and smoothes out the appearance of the skin, providing immediate comfort and vitality for tired complexions. As if plumped from within, the skin looks visibly smoother, more luminous and younger.
What I think: This is so hydrating, but I can also feel it firming my skin. It makes it look smoother and younger. This is amazing before going out or photos, too! It’s also great for those of us who are older and need a bit of help firming skin.
Purchase at usa.erborian.com
MegRhythm Lavender Gentle Steam Eye Mask
MegRhythm Lavender Gentle Steam Eye Mask ($10.99 for a pack of 7) — MegRhythm self-heating eye mask is the perfect way to relax the eyes and hydrate surrounding skin. Its advanced self-heating technology heightens relaxation and relieves hard working eyes with the warm and soothing sensation of steam heat.
What I think: This is such a fun product. It’s very easy to use, just open, unfold and place the tabs around your ears. It does get pretty warm, so fair warning. It’s very relaxing and soothing on my eyes.
John Frieda Frizz Ease Daily Nourishment Shampoo and ConditionerJohn Frieda Frizz Ease Daily Nourishment Shampoo and Conditioner ($5.99 USD each) — Cold, dry air also dries out your hair. Quench your hair’s thirst and give it a daily dose of intense hydration with this duo that provides humidity resistance, breakage reduction and improved conditioning. This shampoo and conditioner will help keep your hair continuously soft, silky and smooth through the winter months.
What I think: I love this hair care duo! It’s so great when my hair needs extra moisture. I find that my hair is soft and manageable afterwards. They smell nice, too, but not an overpowering scent.
Available at Food, Drug and Mass Retailers Nationwide
Still looking for that perfect beauty gift or stocking stuffer? I have some great choices for all price ranges today.
I usually do a favorites post on Sundays, but instead I am featuring gorgeous makeup, body care and an amazing skincare set that will makeup perfect gifts for any beauty junkie you love:
The Meaningful Beauty Beyond Starter Kit
The Meaningful Beauty Beyond Starter Kit ($50 USD) — Keep your skin merry and bright this holiday season with Meaningful Beauty by Cindy Crawford. Infused with powerful antioxidants and anti-aging technology, The Meaningful Beauty Beyond Starter Kit includes a 4 step regimen that will keep you glowing all winter long while revealing a perfectly polished, radiant complexion. The kit includes:
Youth Activating Melon Serum harnesses the anti-aging power of Meaningful Beauty while leaving the skin looking and feeling younger with twice daily use.
Intensive Triple Exfoliating Treatment works hard to give you spa-at-home results with no down time. Simply use twice weekly in the shower to banish dull, rough texture, dirt and impurities and reveal more visibly smooth and supple skin.
Environmental Protecting Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 is a multi-tasking moisturizer designed to visibly firm, plump and hydrate the skin and to reduce environmentally induced damage that can lead to the visible signs of premature aging.
Overnight Retinol Repairing Crème is an intensely hydrating overnight that helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and increases the look of visible firmness and impart a smooth overall texture.
Purchase at Ulta and Ulta.com
Merle Norman Holiday 2017
Merle Norman Lush Lips Gift Set ($36 USD) Prep lips for a kiss with Merle Norman’s nourishing Lip Revive and an assortment of lip color treats. Top-selling Lip Pencil Plus in Mocha and Tender Kiss are paired with Creamy Lipcolor in Gold Illusion. This new, innovative limited edition shade adds a shimmer to any lip color or can be worn alone for a light blush of shimmering color.
Merle Norman It’s In The Eyes Gift Set ($66 USD) — Make an entrance with Irresistible Eyes. This set features limited-edition Soft Touch Eye Pencil Duos in
Meteor/Bordeaux and Pacific/Lilac, a full retail-size Mascara Primer and the Fat Lash Mascara Black.
Merle Norman Blissful Body Butters Gift Set ($25 USD) — Soften and smooth skin all over with this ultra-rich set of body butters in 3 delectable flavors that smell like your favorite holiday desserts! Cocoa & Vanilla, Apple & Cinnamon, and Sugar Cookie make the perfect.
Available exclusively at Merle Norman Studios beginning November 1st
Sephora Collection Easy on the Eyes Eyeshadow Palette
Sephora Collection Easy on the Eyes Eyeshadow Palette ($36, on sale now for $25 USD) — This palette of 30 shades in not-quite nudes with matte and metallic finishes creates flattering looks that are anything but ordinary. Shades are grouped by tone and depth, making it easy to find a custom color just for you. Large matte pans are used as a base, while smaller pans offer subtle pops of color in matte and metallic finishes. Whether your look is natural or bold, fair or deep, you’ll be sure to find color combinations that must have been made just for you.
Purchase at Sephora
Pixi Beauty Lid Lovelies Eye Shadow ($22 USD) — A swish of these shadows illuminates eyes while adding depth & dimension. These 18 soft silky eye shades come in a natural mineral formula. Blend with a fluffy eye brush for a sheer natural looking effect.
Pixi Beauty Endless Silky Eye Pen Trio ($14 USD) — This limited edition kit includes some of our classic bestselling shades. Included is a limited edition colour exclusive to this kit in our bestselling award winning formula. Replace cap after use. Paraben Free
ybf Your Best Friend majestic matte lip collection
ybf Your Best Friend majestic matte lip collection ($28.80 USD) — A glorious girlfriend such as yourself deserves lips that can last while you’re taking names and conquering your dream! From all of us at ybf, we declare that all girlfriends near and far shall love their lips in our new majestic matte lip. Let your lips do the talking, girlfriend; they’ll love the all-day stay! This new formula bonds to your lovely lippies the way girlfriends bond to each other. This lip is going to stay put through your morning (and afternoon!) coffee. That’s a matte-er of fact!
Colours:
peachy keen
proud pink
magnificent magenta
awe-inspiring apple
Buxom Lips Off Leash ($59 USD) — This 15-piece mix of lip plumpers includes shimmer-shine lip polishes and glassy-smooth lip creams for two different finishes. With lip-loving vitamins and richly pigmented color, this collection is formulated with a unique peptide and hyaluronic acid booster to help stimulate collagen, build volume, and plump look of lips without irritation.
This set contains:
– 7 x 0.07 oz/ 2 mL Lip Polish in Brooke, Clair, Sophia, Jasmine, Stacy, Jill, Kayla
– 8 x 0.07 oz/ 2 mL Lip Cream in Pink Champagne, Peach Dacquiri, Dolly, Mudslide, Berry Bramble, Wild Orchid, Cherry Flip, Sangria
Purchase at Sephora stores and Sephora.com
Sephora Puff & Shine Shimmery Body Powder
Sephora Puff & Shine Shimmery Body Powder ($13 USD) — This shimmering loose powder with subtle color is perfect for lighting up features. With a super-soft brush, it’s easy to apply to the body, face, and hair for a light sparkle that amps up any look for the holidays.
Purchase at sephora.com and Sephora stores
Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure Mini Sets ($9.99 USD) — Jazz up those tips and get jolly with the Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure™ holiday collection of mini sets; quaint quartets of festive polishes in festive hues. The Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure™ offers 7 benefits in 1 bottle, allowing you to skip the salon, for a party ready manicure. The chip-resistant polish with Keratin features all of the elements you know and need: base coat, strengthener, growth treatment, salon color in chic shades, top coat, and gel shine finish. The Complete Salon Manicure mini sets are ideal for stocking stuffers and holiday gift exchanges- or just a treat for a bit of self-indulgence.
Sally Hansen Vitamin E Nail & Cuticle Oil in Peppermint and Vanilla Buttercream, ($6.99 each USD) — For a limited time only, Sally Hansen’s Vitamin E Nail & Cuticle Oils come in two delicious holiday scents. The oils are available in either tasty vanilla buttercream or refreshing peppermint. Indulge your senses with the creamy and merry aromas that celebrate the holiday spirit. Your cuticles and nails crave moisture and protection during the cold holiday season, so grab these Sally Hansen Vitamin E Nail & Cuticle Oils for the perfect stocking stuffer gift. Enriched with a natural essential oil complex with Vitamin E, its formula leaves skin and nails feeling hydrated, soft, and healthy while helping to protect nails.
Purchase at a mass market retailer near you.
What fabulous beauty gifts are you giving – or wanting – this year?
I stuff a lot of stockings each year — my husband, three daughters, my oldest daughter’s boyfriend and one for the dog and one for the cats. Whew, that’s a lot of stuff to buy!
So, I love great ideas for stocking stuffers. I do give my daughters lots of fun little beauty gifts like the ones below. There are different price ranges included, so I’m sure you’ll find something affordable and that will make someone smile:
Sephora Collection Lip Balm
Sephora Collection Lip Balm ($5 USD) –This lip balm is made with a nourishing, comfortable formula that gives lips a light tint. This product comes in pink or nude (shown above) shades in a Sephora customized emoji tin.
Purchase at Sephora
ybf beauty up all night mascara ($16 USD) .. curling & volumizing mascara is a water-resistant all-in-one mascara formula that builds & fortifies lashes – just what every girlfriend needs! Your starry eyes are the perfect frame!
ybf beauty smooth blending sticks ($17 USD each) –Tired of pinching your cheeks for a little coulour? Tired of blushes that give you clown cheeks? Don’t fret, angel – our new, multi-purpose blending sticks solve that problem. We all need some rouge in our lives – so pamper yourself & look lively, vibrant & glowing! Be fabYOUlous! You will receive (1) 0.21 oz/ 6 g blending stick in choice of: playful peach, perfect pink, chic champagne (highlighter) or radiant rose.
No7 Glamorous Nudes Eye Light Palette ($14 USD) — Features 8 nude eyeshadow shades in a gold packaged compact, perfect to bring on-the-go and apply touch-ups during holiday parties.
Available at Walgreens and Walgreens.com.
Pop Beauty 24K Face Base ($16 USD) — This light diffusing primer blurs imperfections while hydrating and restoring the skin. Micronized gold pearls boost the skin’s radiance while creating a smooth, even toned, illuminated base for your makeup application. Prepare your skin for an all day glow. Paraben free. Not tested on animals
Pop Beauty Pout On Point Lip Liner ($6 USD each) — Keep your pout on point with this tri-tipped liner that nourishes and prevents feathering in a few easy strokes. Define your line and withstand time.
Pop Beauty Prismatic Pop Illuminating Powder ($12 USD each) — Beam up your favourite features & make your skin POP with prismatic perfection! This ultra light reflecting illuminator seamlessly blends onto the skin for an ethereal finish; creating a multifacete d, three dimensional, luminous glow. Paraben free. Not tested on animals
GrandeLIPS Fast Lip Fix Set ($29 on sale now for $14.50) — This four-piece set features mini sizes of Original Clear, Barely There, Pale Rose, and Hot Fuschia shades—perfect for any time of the year. Infused with Volulip™ and hyaluronic acid, GrandeLIPS Hydrating Instant Lip Plumper instantly improves lip volume in three to five minutes—adding a pop of lip-boosting color while hydrating dry areas. It offers an array of shades, including its original clear color, and its clinically proven formula increases overall lip hydration, volume, softness, and firmness in just 30 days of usage when applied twice daily. It layers effortlessly with other lip products and soothes the lips without any burning or irritation.
Purchase atwww.grandecosmetics.com
VMV Hypoallergenics Vanity Pair
VMV Hypoallergenics Vanity Pair ($54 on sale now for $35) — This VMVanity Pair consists of our bestselling, beauty editor-fave LIP GLOSS and Glitz Lipstick. Two Glam. Two Fab. Two Perfect. Each box contains 1 lip gloss and 1 lipstick, in one of two combinations, Cherry Fudge + Tango and Big Red + Smack.
The bottom row is Raw Sienna, Burnt Orange, Primavera, Red Ochre, Venetian Red, Warm Taup and Realgar. Both Raw Sienna and Burnt Orange are gorgeous lid colors and Red Ochre is amazing in my crease. I love Primavera because shimmers are my favorites and I used Warm Taupe on my lid today and it looked really warm and chocolatey!
The Bellapierre Pro Concealer Palette is very pigmented. I tried the orange under my eyes. It didn’t blend well, but my concealer did cover the orange up and it looked okay. I probably won’t use again.
Forty, Flirty & Fabulous 