It’s National Lipstick Day, Hooray! For me, lipstick it the finishing step to a complete
From the classic lipstick bullets, to tints and balms to the popular liquid lipstick — there are amazing formulas and brilliant colors for everyone! Buckle up, everyone — here’s a long list of amazing choices!
CATRICE Ultimate Colour Lipstick
CATRICE Ultimate Colour Lipstick ($6.99 USD) — Color Counts! This CATRICE lipstick is highly pigmented, with perfect coverage and shine. Creates a smooth, creamy and long-lasting texture. Available in 13 shades.
essence matt matt matt lipstick ($2.99 USD) — Once, twice, three times kiss proof! This smooth new lipstick glides over lips to provide a sophisticated, longlasting matte finish and bold color without drying out. Available in 8 shades.
Lipstick Queen Nothing But the Nudes ($24 Each) –The rich texture delivers the perfect amount of pigment with an ideal sheen to show off your nude. Enriched with natural oils, waxes and antioxidant Vitamin E, these smooth, luxe and comfortable nudes are super-charged with hydrating nutrients to impart a modern, vinyl-like look and feel to the lips. Effortlessly chic and universally flattering, this is a collection for the nude obsessed and the nuances that go into a beautiful nude experience. The shades available are The Truth – Pretty pinky nude, The Whole Truth – Perfect peachy nude, and Nothing But the Truth – Beautiful beige nude
Available at lipstickqueen.com on August 1st
Sassy Lips Make the Moment collection
Sassy Lips Make the Moment collection ($25 USD) –Encapsulated within every lipstick in this collection are gold flecks and a single wild chrysanthemum flower.The lipsticks turn to different shades of glossy pink and fuchsia and vary according to your body temperature.
Jelly-like texture feels soothing and hydrating, it offers the high shine of a gloss with the comfort of a lipstick. Gold flakes inside impart a subtle shimmer to your lips.
LORAC Alter Ego Hydrating Lip Stain ($19.00 USD) — This sexy and playful stain coat your lips in highly- pigmented color and hydrates with nourishing Jojoba Seed Oil, Evening Primrose Oil, Shea Butter and Mango Seed Butter for all day pigment, shine and hydration.
ALIMA PURE LIP TINT ($14 USD) — Lip Tint is a buttery lip balm, packed with lush pigments, that conditions lips with a sheer wash of color. Formulated with a blend of soothing oils, including coconut, pumpkin seed and pomegranate seed oils, butters and waxes for a rich moisturizing finish. Available in seven shades.
BLACK/OPAL Color Splurge Color Stick Lip ($7.95 USD) — Get the convenience of a lip pencil with the vibrant color of a lipstick in a easy-to-apply retractable pen. Enriched with emollient butters and vitamins C & E, these pigment-rich lip color sticks provide smooth, creamy jewel-toned color with a non-drying finish.
Cargo Cosmetics Swimmables Longwear Matte Liquid Lipstick ($18 USD) — Ultra matte budgeproof liquid lipstick delivers intense long wear color! High coverage long-wear formula dries fast and doesn’t smudge! Formula is feather proof and does not settle into fine lines. Lightweight moisturizing texture feels comfortable on lips. Suede matte finish does not crack or flake on lips.
Available at CargoCosmetics.com
Lipstick Queen Famous Last Words in Cheers
Lipstick Queen Famous Last Words in Cheers ($24 USD) Introducing FAMOUS LAST WORDS in CHEERS! Cheers contains the same non-drying properties as the other shades in the Famoius Last Words Collection with an added mesmerizing sheen. It glides on smooth and wet, then sets to a luxurious velvet matte finish, leaving your lips moisturized and pigmented down to the very last word. Cheers!
So, it is now very hot in humid in Kansas City, and I bet it is in a lot of places at this time of year! Whether you’re lounging by the pool or braving the music festivals, new essence makeup will keep you looking and feeling fresh.
I love essence cosmetics because they are insanely affordable and are really good quality. The below essence products will help with a shiny face, plus add gorgeous summer color:
instant matt make-up setting spray ($4.99 USD) — a transparent mist that sprays on top of makeup to refresh your complexion and eliminate shine and oil. Suitable for all skin types. This also helps my makeup stay all day!
make me matt lip top coat ($4.49 USD) — transform any shiny lipstick into a matt, never chalky finish. Leaves lips soft. I like using it over a cream lipstick, it give it a modern look.
all about matt fixing powder waterproof ($4.49 USD) — translucent powder that can be applied on top of any foundation to mattify your skin and set makeup. Withstands humidity and mattifiess skin all day.
extreme longlasting eye pencils ($2.99 USD) — (6 shades) waterproof pencil glides on smooth and new pencil delivery system keeps the formula from drying out.
volume stylist 18h curl & hold mascara ($4.99) — taking inspiration from hair trends, this innovative system uses special micro-styling waxes to deliver long-lasting volume & curl via a paddle brush wand applicator. Lasts for up to 18 hours!
eye & face palette ($5.99 USD) — (4 shadows, blush & highlighter, 2 shade collections) shades for eye and face come together in this easy to wear palette.
shine shine shine lipgloss ($2.99 USD) — (6 shades) glides on smooth with a highly-pigmented finish with an applicator that ensures precise application.
The collection is available on essencemakeup.com and on shelves at Target, Ulta and Forever 21. The collection retails for $2.99 to $5.99 so you can still look beautiful on a budget.
Do you love essence cosmetics? Have you tried any of these new products?
It’s been a stormy week in Kansas City, but it’s sunny today! That makes me think of summer and gorgeous summer makeup!
My favorites this week include new launches from essence cosmetics, Miracle Skin Transformer and Pur Cosmetics. These products will keep skin glowing and nails shimmering throughout summer:
essence cosmetics Out of Space Stories Nail Polish Collection
Out of this world! Introducing the Out of Space Stories Nail Polish Collection ($2.99 USD) by essence cosmetics. These holographic, iridescent and metallic nail polishes are available in 7 bright colors perfect for an intergalactic adventure.
What I think: These are really fun polishes! Great for fingers and toes. They go on smoothly and last a week with a base and top coat. And they are an affordable option if you’d like to try a holo or other sparkly polish!
Miracle Skin Transformer Pure Reflection Fluid Finish Foundation
Miracle Skin Transformer Pure Reflection Fluid Finish Foundation ($36 USD) — a color solution with an emphasis on skin, and feature Chroma-Quench, a fusion of peptides to support & strengthen, humectants to draw and bind water for natural hydration, light-reflecting particles and pigment, allowing you to create a cocktail for customized complexion solutions.
What I think: This hydrating foundation smells like a margarita! At least it does to me. It applies really smoothly and I’d say it has a medium coverage. It feels so light on, it will be perfect for summer. I don’t like to wear anything heavy on my face when it gets hot out, and this will be perfect! Available in two shades Buff/Light and Honey/Medium.
Available at miracleskintransformer.com
Pur Cosmetics Bronze Your Selfie Skin-Perfecting Face and Body Liquid Bronzer ($26 USD) — Bronze your selfie with liquid gold and added radiance for your entire body. This liquid bronzer veils the skin in PÜR’s skin nourishing and perfecting Energy Complex and a prismatic, imperfection blurring bronzer technology that gives a natural sexy sun-kissed hue. This versatile formula can be worn alone or with makeup and on both the face and body. It easily smooths onto skin and locks into place for long-lasting tropical radiance.
Pur Cosmetics Make It Matte Oil Mattifying Blotting Stick ($26 USD) — Oily skin has finally met its matte. This versatile blotting stick instantly mattifies and perfects without over drying the skin, leaving you with a shine-free look that’s comfortable. Use it before makeup application as a mattifying primer or on-the-go for touchups throughout the day. Breakthrough shine doesn’t stand a chance!
What I think: The bronzer has a slight shimmer to it and it is a really pretty golden color. I think it’s perfect for arms and legs to smooth skin or enhance a tan. the blotting stick will be perfect for when it gets hot and humid in KC. It helps skin stay matte all day. It works well under makeup or on it’s own for a natural look.
Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Are you celebrating today? I’ll probably buy a Guiness today and maybe try to cook something Irish. And think about my family’s trip to Ireland last year, which was amazing (if you read the whole post, you’ll see a photo slideshow of our trip!)
Green beauty can mean many things. Of course it can be a fun green lipstick, eye makeup or nail polish or it can be natural beauty products. Below are some of my faves of both for today:
essence St. Patrick’s Day
Vibrant Shock Lipstick ($3.99) — Be bold and unleash your inner leprechaun with Essence’s silky, sea green, matt lip color in “No To Mainstream”. Keep it clean, simple and put on the pout that you never knew you needed! “Kiss Me I’m Irish”!
Nail Art DUO Stylist ($2.49) — Channel the Emerald Isles and unlock your creativity – Essence has the tools that can upgrade your look all the way to the tips of your fingers…literally! Use the DUO Stylist to create innovative nail designs in every shade of IRISH, the possibilities are endless!
The Gel Nail Polish ($1.99) — Mint isn’t just for ice cream or gum, your nails are dying to be adorned with a kiss of color courtesy of, “Play With My Mint” super shiny nail polish! No lamp or leprechaun required! If you’re not ready to fully embrace your Irish roots, add a hint of mint instead – the perfect remedy for the reluctant St Patrick’s Day reveler!
Say No To Redness ($2.99) — No need to blush, say YES to a perfect complexion and NO TO Redness with this shamrock shaded color-correcting concealer. A must-have for a flawless face, this easy to blend, retractable mini makes the perfect addition to your St Patrick’s Day beauty regime.
Lash Princess False Lash Mascara ($4.99) — You’ll think you’ve found the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow with this magical mascara! The conic shape fiber brush provides lashes with dramatic volume and sculpted length – give your lashes the Royal treatment they deserve!
Purchase at beauty retailers such as Ulta and Target.
Mally Beauty Evercolor Starlight Waterproof Eyeliner in Caribbean Sea
Mally Beauty Evercolor Starlight Waterproof Eyeliner in Caribbean Sea ($18.00) — a high performance eyeliner that glides on easily and lasts all day. It’s perfect for those who want a long lasting product that can be smudged or worn alone. This creamy eyeliner adds a pop of green to your eyes.
Molton Brown Eucalyptus Body Wash ($30.00) — blended with refreshing mint and cedarwood. The formula gently cleanses while also diffusing a relaxing scent that instantly transports you into the Australian woodland.
KORRES Body Butter in Basil Lemon ($29) will have your skin glowing like a pot of gold. A rich, luxurious, and beautifully scented cream enriched with shea butter to soften, moisturize, and rejuvenate the skin. Sunflower, almond, and avocado oils nourish, thus helping to improve elasticity and smoothness. Clinically proven to offer advanced moisturizing and smoothing action, it is beneficial for dry and chapped skin
Available at Sephora.com
LAVANILA Laboratories The Healthy Fragrance-Free Deodorant
For a natural deodorant to keep you fresh all day and night for the Saint Patrick’s Day festivities, try LAVANILA Laboratories The Healthy Fragrance-Free Deodorant. This deodorant provides superior, long-lasting odor protection for even the most sensitive skin. Healing moringa oil blends with powerful antioxidants and beta glucan technology for extra gentle defense and nourishment.
Available at Lavanila.com
Here’s a slideshow of a few photos from my trip to Ireland last June. Have a great St. Patrick’s Day!
Ready to change up your look for fall? I received some fun products from essence and Catrice Cosmetics for my honest review. These are affordable, but really high quality cosmetics.
Below are my faves of the bunch:
Essence Pure Nude Highlighter
Essence Pure Nude Highlighter ($4.49 USD) — Bring out your natural glow with this baked powder that has a slightly marbled effect. Works on any skin tone and is perfect for adding a subtle shimmer to your face.
What I think: This beautiful highlighter matches with my skin tone perfectly. A little can be used for a lit-from-within glow, or I can layer to full on strobe. So pretty for day time!
Essence 2 in 1 Eyeshadow and Liner
Essence 2 in 1 Eyeshadow and Liner ($4.49 USD) — This waterproof chubby eyeshadow stick combines the benefits of eyeshadow and eyeliner with its conic tip that doesn’t need sharpening. The creamy texture can be easily blended and is extremely long lasting. Available in 4 shades.
What I think: I have this in a light color called Light Me Up. It’s perfect for highlighting the corners of the eyes and under the brow bone, as well as using all over the lid for more subtle looks.
Essence Smokey 2-in-1 Khôl Liner
Essence Smokey 2-in-1 Khôl Liner ($3.49 USD) — The ultra-pigmented and ultra-versatile khôl liner you love in black is now available in white and brown! Use the pointed tip as a precise eyeliner, rotate to the side of the cone to swipe over the lid as an eyeshadow for an intense, smokey look. It glides on smoothly and the conic shape of the tip eliminates the need for a sharpener. Now available in a total of 3 shades.
What I think: I have been testing this in Smokey Brown. It is a really rich color with a little shimmer to it. It is smooth and easy to apply. The only issue I have with it is that it can smear easily. So I like to set it with dark brown powder shadow so it won’t budge.
Essence Prettifying Lip Oil
Essence Prettifying Lip Oil ($2.99 USD) — The lightweight texture instantly melts and leaves lips with a subtle shiny finish and sweet taste. This formula contains Jojoba Oil that ensures moisturized and smooth lips sans stickiness. Available in 3 shades.
What I think: The shade in the photo is SOS, My Heart. It is a sheer red that smells and tastes fruity. It feels to me more like a lip gloss than a lip oil, but I really like it. It gives very slight color and lots of shine! It also makes my lips very hydrated.
Catrice Liquid Metal Eyeshadow ($4.99 USD) — Heavy metal! Catrice Liquid Metal Eyeshadow dazzles eyes with high pigmentation and extraordinary metallic shine. Reminiscent of liquid metal, this silky powder is sure to make your eyes shine instantly. The unique 3D embossment turns this eyeshadow into an absolute highlight. The texture is smooth, easy to blend, and long-lasting. Mix and match to create brilliant metallic looks. Not tested on animals.
What I think: The color above is We Are The Champagnes. It looks gold in the compact, but is a soft champagne on. Very shimmery and well pigmented! The shadow is buildable and can look subtle or all out metal-y.
Catrice Luxury Lashes Volume Mascara Ultra Black
Catrice Luxury Lashes Volume Mascara Ultra Black ($7.99 USD) — Big, Bold and Beautiful! Luxury Lashes Ultra Black Volume Mascara from Catrice provides lashes with the perfect volume and curl – all with one swipe of the wand! Enriched with Argan oil and a luxurious cashmere protein, the formula cares for the lashes as it creates dramatic volume. A twisted fiber brush captures the ideal amount of formula to coat your lashes from root to tip for maximum impact. Not tested on animals. Ophthalmologically tested.
What I think: This mascara gives lots of volume. I usually go for lengthening mascaras, since my lashes are short, but this would be a great daytime mascara for me. It looked very natural on and did not flake off.
Catrice Ultimate Stay Lip Liner ($3.99 USD) — Perfectly outlined! The Catrice Ultimate Stay Lip Liner has an extremely long-lasting texture with high pigmentation. You can softly outline your lips with precision to prevent lipstick from feathering and bleeding. Not tested on animals.
What I think: This lip liner does not budge at all! I did one swipe on my hand first and touched it and it was not moving! Also it is nicely matte and would work under a lipstick or a gloss.
Catrice Ultimate Lip Glow Lip Colour Intensifier ($5.99 USD) — Genius glow! The Catrice Ultimate Lip Glow not only moisturizes and protects your lips, it enhances your natural lip color to create your very own personal shade. Not tested on animals.
What I think: This is such an interesting product. It is a clear rosy color in the tube, but applies really naturally on. I though it was going to be glossy, but it is a soft lip tint with a little bit of glow to it. On me it’s very light, almost looks like applying cherry Chapstick. But may be brighter on others.
Ready for Spring? I am — especially spring cosmetics! essence has channeled the beauty of spring with pops of satiny lip color, mix-and-matchable eye shadows and complexion perfection. The Spring/Summer 2016 Collection includes 20 new products and packs even more exciting news… The full essence cosmetics line is now available at Target!
I was sent some of these great new products for my honest review. Here are my favorites:
essence blush up! powder blush heat wave
ess. blush up! powder blush ($3.99 USD) — Rosy ombre! The latest trend in fashion and hair now in blush! The silky texture and beautiful color combination blend perfectly to give cheeks a nice, fresh, and rosy look. Available in 2 ombre shades.
I have this in Heat Wave. It is so gorgeous and bright! I think it will be so pretty in the summer when I have a little (faux) tan. It blends very well and gives a nice flush.
essence mono eyeshadow
essence mono eyeshadow ($1.99 USD) — Formulated with finely-milled, highly pigmented powder to provide long-lasting and full coverage. Available in 9 shades.
This is gorgeous! This gold shade is lovely. Great for an eyeshadow or highlighter. It’s very pigmented, too!
essence all about bronze 01 eyeshadow
essence all about bronze 01 eyeshadow — ($5.49 USD) — All about… beautiful eyes! Gorgeous eyeshadow palettes with eight complementing, buildable colors and multiple finishes; satin, matte and metallic effects.
This is a beautiful, shimmer palette that screams summer to me! It comes in other shades too, such as nudes and pinks. These are so affordable, pick them all up!
essence I love volume mascara waterproof
essence I love volume mascara waterproof ($4.99 USD) — The newest member of the most beloved mascara family – now available in a waterproof formula! The large fiber brush separates and covers each individual lash for breathtaking volume. Ophthalmologist-tested.
I’m always looking for a great waterproof mascara, they are hard to find. This one gives volume and length, and stays on all day!
essence liquid lipstick 05
essence liquid lipstick 05 ($3.49 USD) This innovative formula unites the coverage of a lipstick with the moisturizing shine of a gloss. The silky texture goes on smoothly and dries shiny, not sticky! Available in 6 shades.
I thought this was a lipstick at first, if you turn the tube upside down, that’s what it looks like! I was so surprised when I opened it and it was a liquid lipstick. It is very moisturizing (not matte). This color is too bright for me, but I want to try it in a nude.
The full collection – including these new products and more – is now available at 500 Target stores across the US as well as online at Target.com! The collection retails for $.99 to $9.99 so you’ll never have to worry about breaking the bank in the name of beauty.
Are you going to try one of these awesome products the next time you go to Target?
It’s a bit cooler in Kansas City this week and is starting to feel like Fall! There are so many great new products to test and love!
This week I’m loving an all natural hand and body scrub, an easy way to remove makeup, an overnight facial treatment and affordable and innovative makeup.
What are you loving this week? Leave a comment and let me know!
Nubian Heritage Hand and Body Scrubs
Nubian Heritage Hand & Body Scrubs ($12.99 12 oz) The Shea Butter used in all Nubian Heritage products is ethically sourced from women’s co-ops in Northern Ghana. In addition, products are not tested on animals and do not contain parabens, sulfates, phthalates, paraffin, mineral oil, petroleum, DEA or artificial fragrance or coloring. The scrubs come in the following four different blends:
Mango Butter, with an exotic, sweet aroma, contains certified organic Mango and Shea Butters, pure vegetable butters, essential oils and herbs. Indian Hemp & Haitian Vetiver features pure emollient-rich Hemp Seed Oil, naturally antiseptic Neem Oil and soothing Vetiver, with a fresh, herbal scent. Raw Shea Butter w/Frankincense & Myrrh contains unrefined Shea Butter to aid in moisture retention, while improving skin’s elasticity. Patchouli& Buriti, nutrient-rich, relaxing, soothing and uplifting to the senses, buffs way dryness to reveal healthier-looking and smoother skin.
What I think: I have tried the Mango Butter and Raw Shea Butter scrubs. They exfoliate well and leave my skin very soft. The Mango Butter scent was a little sweet for me, but I really like the Raw Shea Butter scrub.
Available at VitaminShoppe.com, Vitamin Shoppe stores, Pharmaca.com and select Whole Foods and Sprouts stores. For more information, please visit NubianHeritage.com.
Makeup Eraser
Makeup Eraser Pink ($19.97 USD) — The cloth and remove your makeup. This includes waterproof eyeliner and mascara, HD makeup and much more. The best part is…it’s reusable. Throw it in the wash and no stains remain. The MakeUp Eraser will last up to 1,000 washes and eliminates the need to buy disposable product to remove your makeup. The MakeUp Eraser is a pink (also available in black) cloth with a hand-sewn sateen edge that’s plush and soft to the touch.
What I think: I really like this cloth. If I wet it and wipe my face, it removes all of my makeup. Then I flip it over and the longer fibers on the other side exfoliate my skin. And it washes up nicely!
REN Skincare Wake Wonderful ($60 USD) — A transforming treatment that works overnight to leave skin visibly brighter, more luminous, refined and even toned in the morning. A unique complex of actives delivers a 3-phase treatment while you sleep that gently renews the skin, boosts skin cell vitality and infuses skin with plumping moisture.
What I think: Overnight treatments are really popular right now. This one is a little strong for my sensitive skin, but it is perfect for all other types of skin. I love anything that makes my skin glowing overnight!
Essence I Love Stage Eyeshadow Base ($3.49 USD) The I Love Stage Eyeshadow Base by Essence has to get on stage! It can be applied diversely either as primer for concealers or eye shadows. The creamy texture does not crease, makes the eye shadow last longer and appear much more color intensive. For an even eye make-up waiting for its gig on stage!
Essence Get BIG Lashes! Volume Curl Mascara ($3.99 USD) — Curly lashes! The large, curved fiber brush offers maximum volume! Essence Get Big Lashes helps you achieve gorgeous curl and while thickening your lashes. The black texture ensures an intensive look. Opthalmologically tested.
Essence Longlasting Lipstick ($2.99 USD) — Long lastinglove… you simply have to fall in love with the Longlasting Lipsticks by Essence. The lipsticks provide your lips with intensive color for several hours without drying them out.
What I think: The eyeshadow base is my favorite of the products. It goes on really creamy and isn’t drying. It helps keep my eye shadow looking fresh all day. The BIG Lashes mascara is also amazing because it curls my lashes so I don’t need to use a curler. And it gives lots of volume too, but not a lot of length. The lipstick is available in lots of pretty shades and does last — even through eating!
I love deep fall colors, but sometimes I just want a light, classic colors. The products below will be pretty all year long, not just for the fall!
Lip Bliss
Lip Bliss™ by What’s Your Virtue was founded by a mother of teen and preteen daughters who was shocked at the explicit and suggestive names found on numerous brands of lip gloss. She didn’t feel it was appropriate for her 13-year-old daughter to put such messaging in her pocket, much less on her lips. Now, choose from vibrant colors with names such as Kindness, Generosity, Devotion and Curiosity.
Lip Bliss™ bundles fortifying castor, cranberry, and safflower seed and peppermint oils to smooth and nurture, plus the protecting properties of anti-oxidants, green tea extracts, and moisturizing vitamin E. Lip Bliss™ offers radiant shine and subtle color without stickiness, is gluten-free, not tested on animals, and contains no parabens.
What I think: These pretty glosses have a light, minty taste and lots of shine! I think the names and colors are so sweet. The glosses are a little sticky, but are moisturizing as well. Good glosses! To purchase, visit http://whatsyourvirtue.com.
FLIRT! Big Flirt Lipgloss
FLIRT! Big Flirt Lipgloss ($15.50 USD)Turn on super-fabulous shine with this lip gloss. It features a sheer and shiny look that looks great alone or paired with a darker lipstick. Dotted design on tube adds a cute touch.
What I think: These are fun glosses, very sheer and not too sticky. The applicator is big, but it covers my entire lip in one swipe! There is a lot of product in the container as well. Purchase at Kohl’s stores or www.kohls.com.
e.l.f. Baked Eyeshadow Palette
e.l.f. Studio Baked Eyeshadow Palette ($10 USD) — Each Baked Palette features 10 gorgeous baked eyeshadows so you can achieve a flawless look whenever, wherever. The silky and blendable formula of our Baked Eyeshadow provides smooth and even application with each sweep of color. Baked in an oven, these eyeshadows offer rich pigmentation for a beautiful effect. Infused with active key ingredients Jojoba, Rose, Sunflower, Apricot and Grape to nourish and hydrate the skin. The long-lasting and shimmering color can be worn wet for a vibrant effect or dry for sheer pigmentation, offering a variety of gorgeous eye looks!
What I think: This is available in two different palettes – California soft, bronzey colors and NYC, smoky colors. I have California (in the photo above) and I really like the soft colors. There is a bit of glitter in some them, so I have to be careful how much I use. You can purchase at www.eyeslipsface.com or Target stores.
Essence Multi-Action Blackest Black Mascara
Multi-Action Blackest Black Mascara by Essence ($3.99 USD) offers an innovative brush and unique texture with carbon black pigments for more volume, length and curve. This multi-talented lash lover offers an innovative brush and unique texture with carbon black pigments to ensure more volume, length and curve for the deepest black lashes! A must-have for dramatic eyes!!
What I think: I like this mascara. I get a nice look, but it is pretty natural, not dramatic. My lashes are a little longer and thicker. Perfect for everyday wear! Purchase at Ulta stores www.ulta.com
Pixi Illuminating Tint and Conceal
Pixi Illuminating Tint and Conceal ($30 USD) — This multitasker includes a brightening & flaw-fixing tinted moisturizer on one end, and a perfectly coordinating full-coverage, easy-to-blend concealer on the other – both infused with potent botanical extracts & vitamins to perfect skin from the inside out.
This multipurpose beautifier does triple duty, acting as your moisturizer, sunscreen, and tinted treatment to provide sheer coverage that makes skin appear flawless & lit from within. Super-hydrating ingredients and protective SPF 20 keep your skin pampered. The perfecting tinted moisturizer in the tube goes on feather-light, leaves your skin looking naturally radiant, and can be layered for extra coverage. Take off the clear lid to reveal the full coverage concealer – a creme-to-powder formula that masks imperfections with a skin-loving combination of Aloe Vera, Vitamin E and Vitamin C.
What I Think: I love this! It is so great to have your concealer and foundation in one tube! So convenient! This is just like a BB Cream, but the colors are very natural looking.
**Deal Alert** Pixi is offering my readers 25% off until November 20th with the code: pixiflirty. Purchase online at www.pixibeauty.com.
It’s time to lighten and brighten up your makeup for the warmer months! Some of the following products are new — and some just new to me — but all are lovely for the summer!
Essence Sun Club Bronzer
Essence Sun Club Bronzing Powder ($3.99 USD) — This is a gorgeous matte bronzer that can be used on face or body — it comes in a nice large compact. To apply, you can use the NEW essence powder brush ($3.49 shown above), and sweep the bronzing powder in blonde or brunette ($3.99) to the hollows of the cheek – making sure to follow through with your stroke and blend the matte color up to temples and slightly into the hairline. Also, don’t forget to brush a little on your forehead and down to the jawline. I love me some contouring! Also, I have the brunette and even though my skin tone is light, the color was not too dark. If you need more color, layer.
Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics Luminous Crème Blush ($27 USD) Give cheeks a burst of color and radiance with this cream-textured blush. The oil-free formula combines a shimmering glow with sheer, long-wearing color. Wear as a cheek color or highlighter, or layer with powder blushes for extra vibrancy.
For the Spring, there are two new shades:
Plum Satin — a rose-berry shade with a hint of shimmer.
Pink Cashmere — a lively, matte carnation pink.
I have the Plum Satin, and it is so gorgeous! Easy to blend and a beautiful light shade on.
IT Cosmetics Vitality Lip Flush Anti-Aging Lipstick Stain
Vitality Lip Flush Anti-Aging Lipstick Stain ($20 USD) takes the place of your lipstick, anti-aging conditioning lip balm, ultra-hydrating lip gloss, and your lip stain! This truly innovative formula contains Hydra-Luxe Technology including ingredients such as plum oil, cherry oil, shea butter, aloe, and jojoba that all work together to treat, hydrate, condition, and nourish your lips. It minimizes the appearance of lip lines and wrinkles. Plus, this lip flush is packed with anti-oxidants including acai, green tea, white tea, and vitamins A, C, and E to fight free-radical attack.
I have tried this in Je Ne Sais Quois, a sheer pink flush shade that looks almost clear in the tube. It feels so moisturizing on and leaves your lips a pretty pink for hours. Finally — a moisturizing lip stain.
You can purchase this alone or in a set with one or two other colors at www.qvc.com.
If you are looking to splurge try, Ellis Faas Spring Gift Set ($85 USD). The set contains the Creamy Eyes E106, which is a lilac taupe – ideal to create a soft smokey eye. The lilac Light E304 can be used for amethyst-like sparkly highlights. And to complete our Spring Gift Set, Ellis chose the juicy, nude pink Milky Lips L207, which is a lovely combination with the eye products.