Shiseido – Forty, Flirty & Fabulous

Ulta Haul — Treating Myself for Valentine’s day!

Hi All! January was a looong month! I’m glad it’s over and we are well into February. So I decided to treat myself with an Ulta Haul. This is a Valentines to myself. It helped that I had a 20% off coupon and a Christmas gift card I hadn’t used yet!

Here’s what I picked up:

I fell for this palette as soon as I saw it online, and love it even more in person! I’m excited that there are neutrals along with the pinks and purples. It will be so wearable for every day as well as special occasions.

Sorry this is a bit dirty, but that’s how it came to me. Maybe the trip was too rough for it! I ams looking forward to using it. It’s so pretty and soft. I think it will be lovely for the spring as well as now!

I have just finished my Farmacy Honeymoon Glow AHA serum and I really loved it. But I decided to try something new. Lactic Acid is supposed to be more gentle but still resurface the skin. Hopefully I’ll love the Ordinary Lactic Acid.

This Milani blush is new and I’m looking forward to trying it out!

My skin has been really dry and I need a new body cream. The Unicorn Fruit Body Butter looks like fun and smells really nice. Plus, I just wanted a new bath bomb and thought this one seems calming.

The NYX lip liner is a favorite of YouTuber Allie Glines, and I really need a new nude one.

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So, there’s my haul. Have you picked up any new makeup or skincare?

Show Your Support With BCA Month Beauty Products!

It’s October! You know what that means…pink! October is Breast Cancer Awareness month.

So many great brands donate portions of their proceeds from some of their most popular products to breast cancer research — and many of them are pink or have the sweet pink ribbon added to show their support.

Below are some great ideas to give to breast cancer research and to get something awesome for yourself!

Temptu Pink Power Deluxe Kit ($235 USD) — The PINK POWER campaign supports National Breast Cancer Foundation’s mission of helping women now. Providing help and inspiring hope to those affected by breast cancer through early detection, education, and support services. Each item purchased from the PINK POWER campaign will arrive with a brochure provided by the National Breast Cancer Association sharing vital information on early detection, and how you can get involved in the mission to end breast cancer.

Kit Includes:

• Pink 2.0 AIRbrush Makeup System

• AIRpod Foundation (choose color)

• AIRpod Highlighter in Pink Pearl

• AIRpod Blush in Peony Pink

As part of the PINK POWER Campaign, TEMPTU will launch #MYPINKPLAN, a social media campaign in conjunction with top beauty personalities Promise Phan and Kacey Laine, who both have stories to share to lend their support to Breast Cancer Awareness and educate on early detection. #MYPINKPLAN allows consumers to participate in the dialogue and become part of the community of support and shared conversations.

Available at http://www.temptu.com

This month, China Glaze honors the strength of all women affected by breast cancer with the new Celebrate Courage collection. Inspired by the women who gracefully fight everyday and those that support them in their battle, the six-piece collection features three new matte crèmes and re-promotes of three classic bright pink shades.

The shades are:

Carpe Diem — Matte pale pink
Sheer Bliss — Matte nude with pink shimmer
Life Is Beautiful — Matte baby pink
Rich & Famous — Hot pink crème
Strawberry Fields — Strawberry pink with gold shimmer
Make An Entrance — Raspberry pink crème

Learn more at http://www.chinaglaze.com and available at a beauty salon or supply store near you.

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, the fashion jewelry site SterlingForever.com is donating 25% of proceeds on the following pink accessories to the Susan G. Komen Foundation.

Above is the Pink Flower & Coral Rope Necklace ($39 USD). It’s a really pretty statement piece. The are many different pieces available, including more delicate jewelry.

Available at http://www.sterlingforever.com

Shiseido Lacquer Rouge in Dollface ($25 USD) — For the eighth consecutive year, Shiseido Cosmetics America will partner with Cosmetic Executive Women (CEW) to support their philanthropic arm, Cancer and Careers. By donating $5 for every Lacquer Rouge in Dollface (PK430) sold in stores and online throughout the month of October, Shiseido will give back to the non-profit organization dedicated to supporting working people living with cancer.

Created by Artistic Director Dick Page, Shiseido’s bright pink Lacquer Rouge in Dollface (PK430) is a rich liquid lip color that delivers lacquer-like shine in just one coat. Inspired by Japanese lacquer artistry, this 9,000-year old technique delivers exceptional lustrous shine and an almost wet-looking finish to a wide variety of pieces, called “lacquerware.”

Purchase at www.shiseido.com.

Palmers is be going “pink” once again for National Breast Cancer Awareness month: donating 15 percent of the sales price (with a minimum donation of $100,000) from specially-marked bottles of its core Cocoa Butter Formula products to Susan G. Komen® beginning October 2014 through June 2015.

From left to right:

Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks ($6.58)

Cocoa Butter Formula Lotion ($5 for 8.5 fl. oz. bottle)

Cocoa Butter Formula Swivel Stick ($3.46)

Cocoa Butter Formula Skin Therapy Oil ($10.58)

Available at mass market retailers near you.

Have you purchased any product to help with Breast Cancer Awareness? Do share!

Brightening Skincare For All Price Ranges From Nuance Salma Hayek, Shiseido and ReVive

Brightening products are increasing in popularity as consumers look for ways to get rid of troublesome spots and lighten skin in targeted areas. I know I have a few dark patches and spots that I would like to lighten.

These products are a big deal in the beauty market as women of all ages want to lighten their dark spots. One of the most popular products at the moment is Clinique’s Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector.

I haven’t tried that product, but I have tried the following standout products at different price-points for brightening:

· $: Nuance Salma Hayek Renewing and Brightening Facial Serum –Developed by CVS/pharmacy and Salma Hayek, the Nuance Salma Hayek Renewing and Brightening Facial Serum ($19.99, http://www.cvs.com) features natural Licorice Extract, a tyrosinase inhibitor, to brighten skin and help prevent hyperpigmentation. Other key ingredients include Botanagen SL™ to brighten skin and promote collagen synthesis, exfoliating Bio-Tripeptide, and an antioxidant blend of Tepezcohuite, Blue Agave, South American Camapu, and Mexican Prickly Pear Extract to soothe, hydrate and firm.

What I think: I have tried this product just a few times, so I haven’t seen an improvement in my dark spots. I do notice that it is a very light serum with a subtle floral scent. And it leaves my skin very soft — must be the exfoliators. The applicator is a metal roller, which is cooling and soothing on the skin. It goes on before moisturizer.

I am really impressed by the quality of this product. I will be reviewing other products from this line — look for that post soon!

· $$: Shiseido White Lucent –Expanding upon their groundbreaking White Lucent technology, which targets pigmentation and microcirculation (the two major causes of pigmentation), the line added two new products last month – White Lucent Anti-Dark Circles Eye Cream ($55, www.shiseido.com) and White Lucent Intensive Spot Targeting Serum (diminishes dark spots in ten days and prevents future pigmentation, $125, www.shiseido.com). The White Lucent products feature 4MSK, an exclusive patented brightening ingredient that diminishes the activity of the enzyme tyrosinase, helping to prevent melanin formation, as well as Yomogi Extract, Multi-Target Vitamin C and Hawthorn Extract.

What I think: I have been using the Anti-Dark Circles Eye Cream for a couple of weeks now. It has a fluffy texture and a light, fresh scent. The packaging is very pretty — a shimmering pink jar.

I like how this feels on my skin. It instantly smooths and moisturizes my under-eye skin. My dark circles are a little less noticeable after a couple of weeks. I will continue using this until it is empty.

I have not tried the serum yet, but I will be trying it soon (am using the ReVive serum below). It has received mixed reviews, but I will give it the benefit of the doubt since I enjoy the eye cream.

· $$$: ReVive Blanche Lighten Brighten – Created by renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Gregory Bays Brown, ReVive Blanche Lighten Brighten ($400, www.reviveskincare.com), safely and effectively fades spots caused by acne, sun damage and age. A cocktail of four non-hydroquinone agents and powerful antioxidants work together to even skin tone.

What I think: I have been testing this lovely prestige serum for 2 weeks now. It is very pricey — the most expensive skin care product I have tried. But, so far so good. I wear it under moisturizer morning and night. It is a rich serum, and I hot days, I only need a little sunscreen over it.

I have noticed that my skin is noticeably brighter, and my dark spots have gotten a little lighter. It is not greasy at all, so I will continue to use this for the next few weeks. It would be great to have my brown spots less noticeable by summer!

If you have tried one of these products, or a different product by one of these brands, please leave a comment!

Enjoy!

Paint Your Pout With New Spring Lip Colors

Looking for a new gloss or balm to lighten your Spring look? That’s a great idea! Changing your lip color or product type (gloss, balm, lipstick), can update your look without too much fuss. Here are some fun new products to try:

Laura Mercier Lip Glacé ($24 USD) is a high-shine, perfectly pigmented lip gloss with rich, long-lasting colour and brilliant shine that creates the appearance of fuller lips. Any skin tone is virtually enhanced by creating a subtle contrast in texture.

There are three new limited-edition Lip Glacés for summer. They are Camellia, Orange Tulip, and Lotus Blossom. I have Orange Tulip and love it. It isn’t too orange, and is a sheer way to wear the “it” color of the season.

Availability: lauramercier.com, Bloomingdale’s, Bergdorf Goodman, Henri Bendel, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, and select Belk, Blue Mercury, Lord & Taylor, and Macys.

Nuance Salma Hayek Ultra Shine Lip Gloss in Peony — Nuance Salma Hayek Ultra Shine Lip Gloss

One of my favorite new lip glosses is Nuance Salma Hayek Ultra Shine Lip Gloss $7.49 USD). Silky, smooth formula hydrates and helps protect lips. Mimosa extract and mango seed oil help nourish and moisturize lips through deep hydration. Vitamins A, C, & E condition and help protect lips. Hypoallergenic. Paraben free. Not tested on animals.

I have this in Peony, which is the second from the last color in the photo above. It is a sheer pink that is perfect for the season.

Available at CVS/pharmacy retail locations and on www.cvs.com/nuancesalmahayek

Shiseido Shimmering Rouge in Sorbet ($25 USD) Sheer, brilliant color infuses lips with lasting moisture and fullness. Lips have never looked so all-day sensuous. With photo-smoothing pearl, this moisturizing formula will give a fuller appearance to lips.

Available in 20 shades. I have this in Sorbet, which is a new shade. It is a light, creamy pink. Very pretty on. It is full color, but feels like a balm.

You can find this at www.shiseido.com.

colour_luxe_collection_450x450 — Mirabella Colour Luxe

Mirabella Colour Luxe ($26 USD) lip gloss creates maximum shine with three-dimensional, light-reflecting shimmer. The combination of iridescent and pearlescent pearls create a star-like effect on the lips, taking Colour Luxe gloss to a new level of color purity, brightness and dimensionality. Vitamin-enriched long-lasting formula moisturizes, conditions, and provides antioxidant protection and anti-aging properties.

These glimmering glosses are not for the shy! I love Spark, the second color from the left in the photo above. It is a gorgeous peachy-nude. The applicator is a flat sponge paddle, which gives even coverage. LOVE!

Available at www.mirabellabeauty.com

Three Custom Color Transformer Duo Champagne

Have you ever had that lip color that was close, but just not “perfect?” Use Three Custom Color’s new Transformer Duo: Champagne ($27.50 USD) to warm up or cool down your favorite (or not-so-favorite) lip shades!

The split-pan compact contains two high-quality gloss pigments to be your own mix master with a smooth, softly shimmering formula that’s never gummy or sticky.

This is so cool! I do try a lot of lip colors and many are too pink, or two brown. This works to even out the color perfectly. Now all of the lip colors that you have can work for you.

You can purchase this at www.threecustom.com.

Enjoy your luscious lips!

Eye-deas For Spring Makeup

I have been trying lots of new Spring makeup! So much Fun! Some of the following eye products are new to me — blinc, rms beauty and Shiseido, and one I have tried before — Josie Maran — give them a try!

cream-shadow-solar — rms cream shadow in solar

rms beauty cream eye shadow ($28 USD) — create a very sheer refined metallic glow with all the benefits of raw mineral pigments without the dryness that occurs with minerals alone. They have a subtle, glossy, light reflecting quality that gives them a very unique finish, both modern and youthful. I have these in Solar, a warm gold shimmer and Karma, a rich, dark brown with a bit of silver shimmer. They are highly pigmented and last a long time. Solar is pretty to wear by itself, but add Karma to amp up the drama! Purchase at www.msbeauty.com.

A fab natural makeup brand is from supermodel Josie Maran. Her palette Argan Beautiful Eyes ($36 USD) features four eye shadows and one shadow liner expertly coordinated to offer the ultimate range of customized looks. These naturally formulated shadows are richly infused with Argan Oil and a blend of floral and fruit extracts resulting in soft and nutrient rich textures including iridescent, matte, and satin finishes. The palette includes easy-to-follow instructions that make beautiful lids simply effortless. Available in Beautiful Smoke, Beautiful Blues, Beautiful Nudes, Beautiful Purples. I have Beautiful Smoke and it is very versatile. You can achieve a natural look with the lighter colors or go full smoke and use the darker shades. Visit www.josiemarancosmetics.com to learn more and purchase.

Shiseido Perfect Mascara Full Definition ($24 USD) — is new for spring and has an exceptional formula and brush that captures every single lash for an opulent and lustrous finish, that maintains a just-applied 16 hour glamorous look. The dual-textured brush coats every lash while the firm tip captures even tiny lashes to add remarkable volume, separation and length. Its non-clumping formula allows for multiple, smooth coats. Available in Black and Brown at www.Shiseido.com.

Once applied, blinc Eyebrow Mousse™ ($25 USD) fills in sparse areas to create the perfect brow line that cannot fade, run, or smudge, even if you sweat or wear it in harsh weather conditions. Get ready for beautiful, face-framing brow color that lasts all day long, unlike traditional eyebrow products that disappear half way through your busy day.

In addition to the unparalleled hold of blinc Eyebrow Mousse™, the innovative product also contains a peptide to moisturize and provide anti-aging treatment to the skin beneath your brow. Not only will you have perfectly colored brows, but you will also be treating your skin at the same time! At the end of the day, blinc Eyebrow Mousse™ is easily removed, only when you are ready, with any gentle makeup remover.

I like this eyebrow mousse. It is easy to use, but be careful, I have put on too much before and have accidentally thickened my brows — and they are plenty thick already! It stays on until you take it off and does not smear or smudge! Purchase at www.blincinc.com.

Enjoy!