Summer is here and it is hot! As I gear up for family vacation, I have been loving summer fragrances and makeup!
Below are my new favorite fragrances and cosmetics. They are fun and bright!
L’Occitane Lavender Foaming Bath
L’Occitane Verbena Eau de Toilette
L’Occitane has bright scents and soothing bubble bath that are perfect for summer!
L’Occitane Lavender Foaming Bath ($38 16.9 fl. oz) — All the relaxing benefits of lavender from Haute-Provence are captured in this rich formula that generously foams in the bath and leaves skin clean, supple and delicately scented.
L’Occitane Verbena Eau de Toilette ($58 3.4 fl. oz) — A perennial favorite. Extroverted notes of Mediterranean verbena mingle with a rosy base of geranium and lemon tree. Elegantly presented in a glass spray bottled engraved with a verbena leaf.
Merle Norman’s summer collection is bright and fun! The Eyecolor Trio So Azuring — Eyecolor Trio/So Azuring, the colors are: Sunshine (matte) Toasted Coconut (luminous) Turquoise (matte).
Merle Norman Lip Glazes in Cherry Crush and Scrumptious. Lip Glaze in Cherry Crush is a great way to wear the shade in warmer months. Scrumptious is a bright, tropical orange. This lip gloss/lipstick hybrid provides a pop of color with a sheer finish. Great alone or over your favorite lip color.
Learn more at www.merlenorman.com
What are you loving so far this summer? Leave a comment and let me know!
I received a wonderful box of all seven of the BHüe’s Liquid Matte Lipsticks ($18 USD), plus a lip balm and lip brush for my honest review. What is BHüe you ask?
“BHüe is a cosmetic brand for those who blend their makeup, but refuse to blend into the crowd. For those who want to complement being their best with looking their best. It’s not about contouring, but about confidence. BHüe’s manifesto is to be fearless. Be bold. Be the best version of yourself. BHüe.”
Here is another photo of the group of products. The lipsticks are very well pigmented, one swipe and lips are saturated with color. It dries down to a true matte, that is not too drying.
Swiped, from left to right, Natural Nude, Pink Rose, Pretty Penny, Poppy Red, True Red and Metal Diva. I also have Berry Fuchsia, but one of my daughters may have taken that one! The lipsticks are still a little wet in the photo, but you can see the coverage and gorgeous colors.
I don’t wear red lipstick, but True Red looked really nice on. And I love that it is matte, it’s sexy but not too out there. And it stays on so well. Natural Nude is my every day favorite and I love Berry Fuchsia (wherever it is) because it is a soft mauve. But I will be wearing all of these lovely colors from summer into fall and on!
The Tinted Lip Balm ($17 with brush) is very nice, too! It looks clear in the tin, and it transforms into a rosy pink gloss. The brush is very pretty, but a little stiff. After a few uses it worked really well. The balm can also be applied with your finger.
I am loving BHüe and am excited to try more of their products in the future.
Summer beauty is becoming so important as it is getting hot and humid in Kansas City. To me, this means a waterproof mascara (of course), bright nail polish and natural skin and hair care!
Below are my new faves. Leave me a comment and let me know what you are using:
Lancôme’s Hypnôse Waterproof Mascara
Lancôme’s Hypnôse Waterproof Mascara ($27.50 USD) — Our ultimate buildable volume mascara that increases lash volume up to 6 times is now in a waterproof version with 16 hour wear. Tiny, barely-there lashes are no match for the patented POWERFULL™ brush that intensifies lashes from root to tip with custom volume you can control. The exclusive SoftShield™, waterproof formula, enriched with Vitamin B5, wraps and seals lashes one luxurious layer at a time without smearing, smudging or clumping.
What I think: I like this waterproof mascara. It separates my lashes, and it does stay on all day. I do find I need more length and volume if I want a more dramatic, evening look. If so, I put a different mascara on, then layer this on top to define and keep my look waterproof. Or, use it on it’s own for natural summer looks.
Trust Fund Beauty ($15 per polish) — is transforming the beauty industry with fun, luxe, fabulous colors that come with entertaining, out-of-the box names. Trust Fund Beauty is a nail polish and lipstick line that is free of dangerous toxins, cruelty-free, and 100% vegan.
What I think: The colors above are Flirty & Dirty a deep, dusty rose, Hollywood Hipster a teal crème and Hot in the Hamptons a bright pink, perfect for toes! I tried Hollywood Hipster and it is so gorgeous on. I only needed one coat, plus a top coat and it is staying on nicely! The color is so vibrant. I’m looking forward to trying the rest. And, I love that it is so much better for you than toxic polishes.
Natural products from TheVitaminShoppe to keep skin and hair glowing this summer:
Nubian Heritage African Black Soap ($3.99 5 oz) — Together, the deep cleansing of African Black Soap blended with 100% Shea Butter deliver an unsurpassed body cleansing experience that exfoliates without stripping skin of essential moisture. Oats and Vitamin E in the formula soothe, condition and prepare skin for moisture. Our traditional African Black Soap recipe Contains palm ash, plantain peel extract, tamarind extract and papaya enzymes
The Vitamin Shoppe Macadamia Oil (5.39 for 1.7 fl. oz.) — The Vitamin Shoppe Macadamia Rejuvenating Skin Care Oil, Balancing, Nurturing, Hydrating
Hobe Labs Avocado Oil ($7.99 USD, 4 fl. oz.) — Avocado Oil is a protein rich moisturizer that is high in Vitamins A and E plus potassium and other minerals. Excellent for dry skin and scalp problems. High antioxidant value improves elasticity and helps reduce fine lines.
What I think: These products are all natural and so nice for the summer. The soap will be perfect for my oily summer skin. It balances and keeps skin clean without drying it out.
I use the macadamia oil on my body after shower. It locks in the moisture and keeps skin soft all day. The avocado oil is so nice as a scalp treatment, and can be used on the skin as well. All of these products are affordable, too!
I am getting ready for a trip to Ireland with my family in a few weeks. As a beauty blogger, I have been trying to decide which wonderful travel-size products to take with me.
Below are some of my current favorites. I am excited to use these during my travels:
Juara Candlenut Obsession Trio
Juara Candlenut Obsession Trio ($28 USD) — This trio features travel friendly sizes of Juara’s Candlenut Body Polish, Candlenut Hydrating Shower Gel, and Candlenut Body Crème to leave your skin baby soft, silky smooth, and lastingly nourished.
Candlenut Body Polish– Exfoliate and soften skin in one easy step with the Candlenut Body Polish. This 2 in 1 product is made with Indonesian Candlenut Oil and Crushed Walnuts; this creamy, soap-free scrub hydrates and reveals fresh glowing skin.
Candlenut Hydrating Shower Gel– Gently cleanse and pamper skin with the Candlenut Hydrating Shower Gel. This sulfate-free foaming shower gel cleanses without stripping and nourishes skin with Candlenut Oil leaving skin velvety smooth and refreshed.
Candlenut Body Crème — Moisturize, soften and smooth skin with our famous Candlenut Body Crème. This velvety, rich body cream provides the nourishing benefits of Indonesian Candlenut Oil as well as Illipe Butter, Rice Bran Oil and Avocado Oil to intensely hydrate and help maintain a youthful elasticity keeping skin supple and soft.
What I think: I love the Candlenut scent! It is so warm and creamy. The products all work together to hydrate and soften the body. I am definitely taking these with me on my trip. My skin will look amazing!
Absolue Premium βx Day Cream ($50 for .5 oz) — Pamper your skin with the luxurious Absolue Premium Bx Day Cream with SPF. Intensively nourishing, Absolue Bx quenches even the driest of skin without being greasy. The velvety texture is light, smooth, and fast-absorbing so it is ideal to wear under makeup. Absolue Premium Bx is infused with Pro-Xylane and the replenishing Bio-Network™ to replenish and rejuvenate skin’s appearance while recapturing the qualities of younger-looking skin: firmness, elasticity, and clarity. Recover your skin’s “golden glow” with Absolue Premium Bx.
Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover ($15 for 1.7 fl. oz.) — This award-winning phenomenon gently whisks away all types of eye makeup, even waterproof. Simply shake to activate the bi-phase formula that leaves the eye area perfectly clean. The lipid phase lifts off eye makeup, while the water phase contains special emollients to refresh and condition skin without a greasy residue.
Définicils Natural Yet Noticeable Lashes ($13 for .14 oz) — For lavishly long, perfectly defined lashes, this iconic award-winning mascara provides the ultimate in separation. Carefully selected polymers coat each lash from root to tip, to help lengthen and outline each lash for unmatched definition. This best-selling mascara’s unique brush applicator has specially grooved bristles that hold the perfect amount of product for gradual, even application every time.
What I think: I love taking a little luxury with me when I travel. All three of these products are so useful on a trip. I only use day cream with SPF and the Absolue Premium Bx is also very hydrating. It also sinks right into the skin, which is important before applying makeup.
The Bi-Facil is a classic Lancôme favorite. Bringing this and some cotton pads will remove stubborn eye makeup. And the Définicils really lengthen and define the lashes.
What I think: These products are a bit of luxury for your hair! There are different kits available for different hair types. For curly hair there is shampoo, a hair mask for condition and the Huile is a nice oil to help keep curly hair soft and bouncy!
Talika Bio-Enzymes Mask After Sun ($12 for one mask) — Talika Bio Enzymes Mask Hydrating is made of bio cellulose, a 100% natural fiber used as artificial skin in reconstructive surgery, offering a concentration in active ingredients 10 times higher than any other material. Perfectly molding the contour of the face like a second-skin, Talika Bio Enzymes Mask Hydrating infuses the skin with a powerful combination of natural ingredients with high moisturizing and repairing properties: Water-harnessing sugar help restoring the skin barrier while sodium hyaluronate rejuvenates the skin and natural plants extracts (Arnica, Chamomilla Recutita, Gentian, Absinth…) soothe the skin, restore moisture and reduce the sensation of tightness.
What I think: I love cellulose masks because they really stick to the face and infuse the skin with the wonderful serum. This felt very nice on my raw skin (too much retinol) for a while. After about 15 minutes, it stung a bit so I had to remove it. Once I did and rubbed in the serum. My skin felt better and was smooth. Hours later it looked even better! Great to stick in your bag when going to the beach this summer.
It’s getting hotter every day in Kansas City! I’m not a fan of hot weather, but I know that since it’s coming, I need to adjust my beauty routine accordingly.
This week I’m loving body makeup for smooth-looking legs, amazing argan oil to moisturize my skin and hair, makeup removing cloths for easy cleansing and moisturizing body washes:
Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs
Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs ($13.99 USD) — One of Sally Hansen’s best-selling products, Airbrush Legs® Leg Makeup is a lightweight leg makeup that leaves legs looking smooth and sexy all day long. The formula infused with Palmaria Extract, helps cover imperfections like veins, freckles or bruises and stimulate microcirculation. This long lasting, fast drying formula is transfer and water resistant. The spray-on formula blends seamlessly into skin for gorgeous and flawless legs. It is available in six natural-looking shades with a luminous finish: Fairest Glow, Light Glow, Beige Glow, Medium Glow, Tan Glow, and Deep Glow and is also available in a Lotion form.
This spring, Sally Hansen is bringing bare-legged beauty to your fingertips. The brand is teaming up with PRIV, a popular on-demand beauty app that allows users to order their favorite beauty services right to their doors. The partnership will bring the brand’s revolutionary Airbrush Legs Leg Makeup directly to women in select markets across the country. Beginning in April through August, consumers in New York, NY, Hamptons, NY, Los Angeles, CA and Austin, TX will receive a professional application of Airbrush Legs Leg Makeup from one of PRIV’s top stylists with any beauty service ordered through the app or on PRIV.com. The coveted product will be applied right in the consumers’ own homes by an expert makeup artist, who will also teach fans how to use the spring essential with a step-by-step tutorial during application. As an added bonus, fans will also receive a complimentary bottle of Airbrush Legs Leg Makeup.
What I think: This is the first time I have tried this product. I received this in Light and Medium. I decided to try Light now, since I don’t have a tan yet. Sad news for my legs, you are even lighter than Light Airbrush Legs! It actually gave me darker color along with evening out my skin tone. It was so easy to use, too. I sprayed it on my legs, then blended it in with my hands, but the directions are to spray on hands and blend in legs. Either way, it worked, plus it dried very quickly. I am using this all summer!
Available at Drugstores nationwide
Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil
Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil ($48 USD) — A bottle of only the very top-grade, 100% natural, 100% pure, and 100% organic beautifying Argan Oil. 100% Pure Argan Oil, Josie Maran’s number one, best-selling, blockbuster natural beauty solution for dry skin, hair, and nails, is still a cult favorite. Made in Morocco by local women’s co-ops and first cold-pressed to preserve quality, this “liquid gold” nourishing oil remains the go-to beauty must-have for those in the know.
What I think: I have tried samples of this oil before, but haven’t really used it every day until now. I have been using it all over — my face, neck, hair, hands, arms and legs. I love how it instantly moisturizes without leaving me greasy. It also makes my skin glow and look so healthy. This is so nice after being outside in the sun (or the cold). It brings my skin and hair back to life!
Burt’s Bees Cleansing Towelettes ($5.99 USD) — these towelettes remove dirt, oil and make-up without rinsing. These dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested cleansing towelettes combine gentle plant-based cleansers with FSC-certified cloths for a refreshing solution to easy, convenient cleansing wherever you are. There are many varieties including Pink Grapefruit, Sensitive with cotton extract, Cucumber & Sage and Peach & Willow Bark.
What I think: I have these in Pink Grapefruit. They clean really well and have such a refreshing scent. I like that they do not leave my skin dry after use. I am taking some of these on vacation this year, quick to use and easy to pack is what I need.
CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash ($10.99 USD) — Developed with dermatologists, NEW! CeraVe® Hydrating Body Wash contains a gentle, foaming formula that cleanses and moisturizes skin. The formula contains hyaluronic acid to attract needed moisture to skin’s surface and three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to help repair the skin’s protective barrier. CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash also contains emollients to moisturize and soften dry skin all day. Gentle enough for even sensitive skin, CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash is non-comedogenic, non-irritating and free of fragrance, soap, parabens and sulfates; it is ideal for dry to normal skin.
CeraVe Eczema Soothing Body Wash ($15.99 USD) — Developed with dermatologists, NEW! CeraVe® Eczema Soothing Body Wash, an ultra-gentle formula, cleanses and calms extra dry, itchy, eczema-prone skin. The formula contains hyaluronic acid to attract needed moisture to skin’s surface and three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to help repair the skin’s protective barrier. CeraVe Eczema Soothing Body Wash also contains Omega oils to soothe dry, itchy, irritated skin.
What I think: The hydrating body wash is so nice for everyday use. It leaves skin soft and moisturized. It’s fragrance-free and not irritating at all. My daughter has Eczema, so we try to find products that help her skin. The Eczema Soothing wash is very calming and doesn’t irritate at all. Her Eczema looks much better after use.
Purchase at drugstores and mass market retailers near you.
I love trying brands and products that are new to me. I have recently received cool makeup that I haven’t tried before for my honest review.
Below are some of my new favorites. They include luxe products from a French company for women of color, high-performance foundations and powders, and natural products to enhance lips, lashes and brows.
Black Up Perfect Matifying Primer
Black Up Volumizing Lengthening Mascara
Black Up Lipstick
Black|Up is the first upscale beauty brand dedicated to women of color. The Paris-based line is known for its range of professional-quality makeup that is developed by women of color and answers the specific needs of darker skintones.
Black|Up Perfect Matifying Primer ($44 USD) — The Perfect Mattifying Primer leaves skin with an even matte finish and it helps to reduce the appearance of pores while it controls excess sebum. Formulated to minimize and smooth the look of pores, it leaves a long-lasting matte finish on even the oiliest of skin types. It leaves skin feeling velvety-soft and smooth for superior makeup hold that lasts all day.
Black|Up Volumizing Lengthening Mascara ($24 USD) — Let lashes look longer and thicker in just one stroke for an ultra-glamorous effect. This non-clumping formula is enriched with intense, innovative black pigment, coating all lashes with deep, intense color that stand outs on any complexion.
Black|Up Lipstick ($23 USD) — This collection of addictive shades looks radiant on lips upon application. The panoply of irresistible colors range from bright nudes to deep black through candy pink, poppy red, and vibrant coral. The unique, highly pigmented formula dresses up lips with an intense veil that covers evenly and reveals color on lighter to very dark skins perfectly. The lips stay comfortable and the color impeccable for up to eight hours.
What I think: The primer is so nice. It’s really light and leaves a matte finish that is not drying at all. My makeup looks fresh all day with use. The mascara leaves my lashes lush and long, and it is very pigmented. It works well day or night.
My favorite product is the lipstick. It is moisturizing and fairly long lasting. The color above is Color4satin golden brown. It is on trend and so pretty on. There are 30 soft, bright and dark colors to choose from
Mehron Celebre Pro-HD Cream Contour and Highlight Palette
Mehron ProColorRing Neutralizer
Mehron Celebré Pro HD Loose Mineral Finishing Powder
Mehron Celebre Pro-HD Cream Contour & Highlight Palette 12 Shades ($79.95 USD) — 12 Color Celebre Pro HD – Most Popular shades of Celebre Pro HD in a Lightweight ECO Friendly Packaging that is ultra portable. Includes shades: LT1, LT2, LT4, ME1, ME3, ME4, MD1, MD2, MD4, D1, D3, & D4
Celebré PRO-HD Makeup Foundation is the result of collaborative efforts by the chemists in Mehron’s product development lab along with input from a select group of highly acclaimed makeup artists. It is an oil-free and fragrance-free cream makeup that delivers satin-smooth, buildable coverage that is non-greasy and great for all skin types. It contains powerful antioxidants such as vitamin E, pomegranate and aloe vera that help soothe the skin.
Mehron ProColorRing Neutralizer ($16.50 USD) — Created to meet rigorous standards and artistic demands, the ProColoRing Neutralizer offers consistent, creamy coverage. Based on the color wheel principle, any underlying skin tones or discolorations can be neutralized using these five colors: Lilac Suede, Mint Buff, Tawny Amber, Soft Peach and Fawn Pink. Unlike traditional neutralizing products, we have used skin tones in our formulation to avoid whiteness in the base. 1oz.
Mehron Celebré Pro HD Loose Mineral Finishing Powder ($14.95 USD) — the perfect luxurious matte finishing powder. Made of French delaminated talc that is transparent, offering no whitening, keeping your colors bright and true. It improves slip and adhesion and offers lubricity. This ultra-fine powder provides the finishing touch that perfects and sets makeup for a healthy, flawless coverage.
What I think: Together, all these products create a flawless face. The ProColorRing takes some experimenting with, but covers dark circles and red spots so well!
My fave is the finishing powder. It leaves my complexion smooth and makes my pores appear smaller. It also is not drying it all.
GrandeLASH-MD ($64.95) — Let’s face it; sweaty, smudged mascara is not a good look. Skip mascara on steamy summer days without forgoing the full lash look with GrandeLASH-MD ($64.95). A lash-enhancing serum, GrandeLASH-MD improves the appearance of the length, fullness, thickness and darkness of lashes in just 4-6 weeks.
GrandeBROW ($79.95) — Who needs makeup when you have full, polished brows? Prevent a makeup- meltdown and give sparse brows a boost with GrandeBROW ($79.95). A proprietary blend of vitamins, peptides, amino acids and conditioning ingredients work to promote thicker and fuller brows in 6-8 weeks. Vitamin E and Magnesium work together to help activate dormant follicle to provide new fullness to the brows.
GrandeLIPS Hydrating Lip Plumper ($26.95 USD) with active Ingredient Volulip™, gives you an INSTANT plumping effect within 3-5 minutes that lasts for hours. Additionally, with continued use, GrandeLIPS gives your natural lips the appearance of fuller, more voluminous, more youthful lips in 30 days. Results may vary.
What I think: I have been enjoying using the Lip Plumper. It tingles a bit, but it gives a nice shine and plumps well.
The GrandeLASH does condition and make lashes appear darker, as does GrandeBROW. With continued use, I hope to see more growth as well!
The weather has been fluctuating in Kansas City this week. I don’t know whether to wear shorts or a sweater half of the time! But I am very glad that my kids are almost out of school (one and a half weeks and counting) and am looking forward to the summer.
This week I’m loving luxe beauty tools and products. Sometimes you just have to treat yourself! The products include an amazing airbrush foundation system, a fresh berry face peel and skincare infused with mineral water.
Luminess Air Epic 2
Luminess Air Epic 2 ($299 USD — With springtime approaching, introducing lightweight makeup into your routine is key for a dewy, effortless look. The airbrush technology found in Luminess’ Epic 2 ($299) gives you complete control over your coverage. The Epic 2 uses 10 times less makeup than traditional methods, so your makeup never looks caked-on.
The Epic 2 Advantage:
Five simple functions
Airbrush Stylus Featuring the No Mess TIP.
o Provides ultra-definition coverage resulting in the smoothest, finest application of makeup possible.
o Gives you complete control with no over-spray mess
o The specially designed nozzle head creates a narrow vortex that combines air with makeup and delivers the finest mist of coverage.
What I think: This is an amazing, high tech airbrush system. It applies makeup so smoothly. And you only use a little at a time. The system also has videos built in to help you use it the best that you can. They are very informative and fun to watch. This is a great investment!
Purchase at www.luminessair.com
Renee Rouleau Triple Berry Smoothing Peel
Renee Rouleau Triple Berry Smoothing Peel ($86.50) — Triple Berry Smoothing Peel by Renée Rouleau is a professional-strength, at-home exfoliant to gently peel away dullness and reveal younger-looking skin. This contains a powerful blend of antioxidant-rich berries with five skin smoothing fruit AHAs, BHAs and enzymes to clear blemishes and clogged pores, fade post-breakout marks, lift discoloration, stimulate cellular renewal and smooth surface texture while reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and large pores. Layer by layer, you’ll remove dullness to reveal younger-looking skin that has literally been resurfaced. Triple Berry Smoothing Peel is ideal to use a night or two before a special event to reveal smooth, glowing skin. The result? Beautiful, brighter and glowing skin by Renée Rouleau.
What I think: I LOVE this peel! When I applied it, it was a dark wine color and smelled (and felt, it has seeds), like rubbing smooshed berries on my face. But you only leave it on for 7 minutes and it didn’t irritate my skin at all. I used a wet face towel to wash it off and afterwards my skin was soft, smooth and my pores did look smaller. And my face was glowing! I have only used it once, but I think I will use it once a week to resurface my skin gently! Great for sensitive skin!
Appriya Sheer Indulgence Collection ($349 USD) — Jet set and be beautiful with the Sheer Indulgence Collection. This collection consists of the travel size Comprehensive Mineral Day & Night Cream, Delicate Zone Mineral Serum, and Mineral Complex Serum. With the Sheer Indulgence Collection, experience ultimate hydration and energize your skin for your most youthful complexion.
Gently and evenly brush on one pump of the Delicate Zone Mineral Serum around the eyes, neck and décolleté, applying light pressure with your ring finger. Follow by applying Appriya Mineral Complex Serum in a circular motion on the face and neck during your day and night skin care regimen for a moisturized, youthful looking skin. Finish with protective Appriya Comprehensive Mineral Day & Night Cream on the face and down towards the neck and chest, allowing the skin to absorb it fully.
What I think: I love these products! They are so luxe and feel amazing on. I haven’t been using them long, but I notice that my skin looks firmer and smoother. It is also very hydrated but not greasy. The products sink right in and hydrate immediately.
What beauty splurges have you been enjoying lately? Leave a comment and let me know!
I have to admit that I wear a lot of neutral makeup including brown eye shadows and liners and nude lips. But as the weather turns warmer, I do start incorporating bright shades and shimmers into my look.
The products below are from NYC New York Color, Rimmel London and Hard Candy. Not only are they great products, they are affordable, too! None are over $8. Affordable products make it easy to treat yourself. Check these out:
ExtraordiBERRY
Deep Grey
Dark Plum and Light Pink
NYC New York Color Get It All Lip Color ($2.99 USD) — Comfortable and creamy texture in a long-lasting formula. Intense, vibrant and shiny finish. Non-drying formula wears up to four hours. Available in 10 bold shades.
NYC New York Color Kajal Eye Pencil ($2.99 USD) — Creamy, soft, and smooth texture glides easily over the skin, offering coverage and intense color in one stroke. Cone-shaped applicator gives you maximum precision and helps you achieve luxuriously lined lids. Available in four ultra pigmented shades: Deep Brown, Deep Grey, Purple Glam, True Black
Rimmel London Magnif’Eyes Double-Ended Shadow and Liner ($6.47 USD) — Get magnified eyes in two easy, mess-free steps. Rimmel’s spectacular 2-in-1 eye pencil delivers ultra-intense, long lasting color for stand-out eye-looks. The dual-tipped pen features a stay true shadow at one end and a 24 hour kohl kajal liner at the other, which can be used on both the lash and water line. Just draw on the drama! The formula is creaseproof, transferproof and waterproof. Available in five strong shade combos in matte, shimmer and pearl finishes.
What I think: The NYC New York Color Get It All Lip Color combines color and moisture, like a tinted lip balm with more pigment. I love how this feels on and it does last for a few hours. The NYC New York Color Kajal Eye Pencil is so creamy and glides easily across the lid (so important as I get older)! The color is very pigment and wears fairly well.
I love the Rimmel London Magnif’Eyes Double-Ended Shadow and Liner. These stay on all day, which is important as the weather gets warmer. The liner applies easily and stays on well. The shadow blends really well.
These products are available at a mass market retailer near you.
hite Haute Hard Candy Beauty
Hard Candy’s Sheer Envy Primer Mist ($8 USD) — Lightweight primer mist that hydrates skin and revitalizes radiance in the skin. Infused with coconut water to boost hydration benefits for up to 12 hours. Leaves the skin soft, smooth and supple.
Hard Candy’s Illuminate & Strobing Mix In Drops ($8 USD) — Multi purpose iridescent facial enhancer that instantly creates a radiant and dewy completion. Use alone or mix in a moisturizer or foundation.
Hard Candy’s Eye Def in Wicked White ($6 USD) — Chrome crayon for a shimmering pop of color. Soft creamy application that works on the entire lid or the lash line.
Hard Candy’s Illuminate & Strobing Face Duo Stick ($6 USD) — Customizable duo that features two illuminating shades. Instantly creates a radiant and dewy complexion.
What I think: I love a primer mist. This is very light and smells nice (probably the coconut water). Since this is hydrating, it can also be used as a setting spray.
The Mix in Drops are my favorite of these products. The little glass bottle with dropper is really cute and retro looking. The drops are so nice to strobe with. You can use a little or a lot.
I haven’t tried the Eye Def in Wicked White, but I think it would be nice on the inner lash line and the inner corners of the eyelid to brighten the eye. The Illuminate & Strobing Face Duo Stick is gorgeous! There is a lighter and a bit darker/warmer shade. Both are so nice on cheekbones, on the brow bone, cupid’s bow, etc.
Hard Candy Cosmetics are available for purchase exclusively at Walmart and Walmart.com.
Hard Candy Lashaholic Big Fake and Ginormous Biggest Fan
Hard Candy Lashaholic Big Fake ($7 USD) — Quick glide formula that smoothes across the lashes to evenly coat and lengthen. Maximum bristle brush will curl, separate and lift lashes for a noticeable difference. Available in Blackest Carbon Black.
Hard Candy Ginormous Biggest Fan ($6 USD) — Fanned out brush that instantly defines and curls lashes for bigger and brighter eyes. Easily wraps every lash with exceptional volume from root to tip. Available in Blackest Carbon Black.
What I think: Both of these are nice separately, but I love wearing a coat of each. Lashaholic Big Fake gives tons of volume and length. Ginormous Biggest Fan separates and curls lashes. Together, wow! I have tiny, straight lashes though. Both work well on their own, too.
The Hard Candy collection is available only at Walmart and Walmart.com
What affordable makeup are you loving now? Leave a comment and let me know!
We have had a stormy, rainy week in Kansas City! It looks like this week should be a lot warmer and sunnier. You never know what type of weather you will have here!
And like our varied weather, I love to try all sorts of different types of beauty products! This week I was send a gorgeous lip oil in a fun shaker, luxe skincare and beautiful hair care to review. These are what I am loving this week:
Lancôme Juicy Shaker
Lancôme Juicy Shaker ($21 USD) –Shake it up with the latest innovation: Juicy Shaker’s bi-phase technology delivers the first pigmented lip oil with 2 distinct phases. The first phase is a transparent oil phase for a comfortable non-sticky shine. The second is the pigment phase for a shot of color. Shake Juicy Shaker like a cocktail shaker to mix the pigments and oil. The cushion applicator enhances application by delivering the perfect ‘shot’ of addictive non-sticky shine and a sheer tint of color to your lips that is simply irresistible.
The cocktail blend of 5 nourishing oils treats your lips like a lip balm. Peach kernel oil; a well-known emollient softens lips while Sweet Almond oil conditions and Cranberry oil provides rich anti-oxidant properties. Muscat Rose oil is rich in essential fatty acids and helps to soothe lips. So addictive, you won’t be able to resist applying it over and over.
What I think: I have been loving lip oils this year. I like how they moisturize, give shine and some color. I have few different brands, but was so excited to try this one! I received it in 300 Lemon Explosion (above), a sheer pink and 102 Apri-Cute, a pigmented coral. These are gorgeous one, great for a fun pop of color that is very good for the lips! I might have to pick up some more!
NASSIF MD Bio-Rhythmic Skincare CLOCK AM Daily Environmental Defense Serum ($95 USD) — This ultra-concentrated serum synchronizes with the skin’s daytime biorhythms and defends the skin from environmental assault, including the newest types of UV radiations (cell phones, flat screens, and laptops) known as HEV (High Energy Visible) light.
NASSIF MD Bio-Rhythmic Skincare Dawn to Dusk Cleanser ($35 USD) — This foaming cleanser is the perfect start to our skin care system. The jojoba and ivory palm seed spheres instantly rid the skin of dead cells and surface impurities, revealing a glowing and radiant skin that’s primed for intense nourishment and treatment. Infused with: Ivory Palm Seed, Jojoba, Pomegranate, Panthenol, and Allantoin.
NASSIF MD Bio-Rhythmic Skincare CLOCK PM Night Serum ($110 USD) — In accordance with the skin’s nocturnal biorhythms, our night time serum is full of beneficial mega complexes for the rejuvenation, detoxification and recovery of skin during our rest phase. In only a few hours, liposome-delivered Roxisomes dive deep to help support the skin’s natural repair of damage from oxygen free radicals. Infused with: Pomegranate, Safflower Oil, MATRIXYL SYNTHE-6, Detoxophane, Sea Whip Extract, Hyaluronic Acid, Ergothioneine, Astaxanthin, Roxisomes, Sunflower Oil, and Elastomer Silicone.
What I think: These products are fantastic in fighting pollutants on our skin. The cleanser exfoliates so well, skin is soft and clear after used. The claim is that the serums sync with our biorhythms. I don’t know if that’s true, but they do sink into the skin quickly and leave it with a nice glow. Wonderful for use under your favorite moisturizers!
Madison Reed’s Permanent At-Home Color Kit ($24.95 USD) — A 9-piece color kit with everything you need for salon results at home—except the harsh chemicals.
The advanced color formula is enhanced with a Triple Care Complex of Argan Oil, Keratin, and Ginseng Root extract to strengthen, repair, and bring out your hair’s natural shine. The result is vibrantly colored hair that feels softer, stronger, and healthier. You’ll get rich, long-lasting, multi-tonal color without the stink, burn, or itch from common dyes.
What I think: This kit is so luxe! I loved using it, it came with everything and more I needed to color my hair — including color-safe shampoo and conditioner, a hair cap and wipes to remove color from skin. My hair was soft, shiny and gorgeous after used. I chose Napoli Brown – 5NGV. My hair is dark brown, and this had golden highlights which is so pretty. It comes in 32 shades. Do the quiz on the website and you will find an amazing color!
With spring in full bloom, I wanted to share four of Drew Barrymore’s favorite, new FLOWER products. Drew is the creator of these beautiful products, and I was lucky to receive one of each of these products for my honest review!
From a lightweight, balm-like foundation to a face/body illuminator and eye and lip products with a range of shades – Drew’s top picks are essentials for spring. On top of having great color pay off and luxurious formulas, each product is travel friendly, making packing for spring (or summer) travels easier than ever!
FLOWER E.E. Erase Everything Ultimate Foundation
FLOWER E.E. Erase Everything Ultimate Foundation ($12.98 USD) — Introducing the Erase Everything Ultimate Foundation, which helps to fill in uneven skin texture and fine lines while also hydrating the skin. This cream-like balm formula is mixed at a slow speed resulting in a creamy whipped texture, resulting in sheer coverage for a natural finish. Light diffusing pigments blur out skin imperfections, allowing for an even, smooth complexion with long wear properties.
What I think: I received this in Buff Tint, which is a little dark for me. But, it will probably work with my summer (faux) tan. I think this is lovely for ladies who need a foundation that smoothes the skin and provides decent coverage. I love the creamy texture and the cool brush applicator — easy to use! It melts right into the skin and leaves skin glowy.
Available at Walmart and Walmart.com
FLOWER Skin Radiance Face & Body Illuminator
FLOWER Skin Radiance Face & Body Illuminator ($12.98 USD) — For a glow from head to toe, the Skin Radiance Face & Body Illuminator helps highlight the best features on both your complexion and body. The creamy formula spreads easily for an all-over boost of radiance and the universal shade can be used on all skin tones.
What I think: Love a lit from within glow? This product is perfect to achieve that look. I would call it a candlelight shade. Plus, a little goes a long way. Dab it on the cheekbones for soft strobing. I like to put a little down the length of my nose to make it appear thinner. Or to the cupids bow of your mouth to accentuate it. There really isn’t a wrong way to use this, since it is so soft and pretty (but don’t forget to blend)!
Available at Walmart and Walmart.com
FLOWER Endless Wear Eye Color Ultimate Eye Color
FLOWER Endless Wear Eye Color Ultimate Eye Color ($7.98 USD) — Create a variety of beauty looks with five beautiful shades of shadows. Providing sheer and lightweight color with true staying power up to 12 hours, the cushion-y texture goes on silky and shimmering, lasting all day without creasing or fading. Shades: Sheer Buff, Sheer Sands, Sheer Cinnamon, Sheer Charcoal, Sheer Seas
What I think: I was sent this cream shadow in Sheer Buff, a taupey greige (grey-beige). I first tried to apply it with my finger to an eyelid without primer. It was way to sheer and a little muddy looking. So, I used an eye shadow primer, then applied the shadow with a brush — gorgeous! The shadow is a little shimmery, but not glittery at all, and it doesn’t crease, yay! I might have to pick it up in a few more colors…
Available at Walmart and Walmart.com
FLOWER Hydrasilk Ultimate Lip Butter
FLOWER Hydrasilk Ultimate Lip Butter ($7.98 USD) — Create a prefect pout with a conditioning lip butter that hydrates the lips upon application. The deluxe formula will lock in moisture and keep them soft and supple after removing the color. The beautifully luxurious formula leave the lips with a pure, intense color with a glossy finish. Shades: Naked Petal, Rose Petal, Peach Petal, Blush Petal, Ruby Petal, Poppy Petal.
What I think: I have this in Blush Petal, which is a bright coral-pink. It is so moisturizing, it’s like a lip balm with full color. Very nice for daytime, or use a darker color for a night out. My lips are dry right now (thanks allergies). So this serves double duty as color and treatment.
Available at Walmart and Walmart.com
Have you tried FLOWER before? Leave a comment and let me know what you’ve tried!
Forty, Flirty & Fabulous 