Beauty Product Reviews
Great vibrancy, opaqueness and performance, but definitely more expensive
See my full review and more pictures at <a href='http://izntlifesojuicy.blogspot.com/2011/12/ysl-rouge-pur-couture-in-13-le-orange.html' rel='nofollow' target='_blank'>http://izntlifesojuicy.blogspot.com...</a>
Guilty as charged, I am obsessed with the Kardashian sisters' style. And I especially love Kourtney Kardashian's style. Randomly reading a copy of Redbook in my grandmother's living room, I stumbled across a clip about the incredible color that is always on Kourtney's lip. Every wonder what the attractive, bold, orangey red lipcolor is? Well this is it. So when I read that she wore YSL Rouge Pur Couture in 13 Le Orange, I had to grab it. Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pur Couture Lipstick can be found at Nordstrom, Sephora and at YSL's website for $30. For CyberMonday YSL was offering 20% off and I was able to grab this lipstick for $24 with the discount. The discount was especially helpful since this was my first luxury designer beauty purchase. I generally don't spend more than $24 on a lipstick. This lipstick comes in 33 shades, with a satin finish and SPF 15. The scent is definitely something I am not used to. The scent of this lipstick is like a perfume, but there is no taste to this lipstick. For those of you who are sensitive to scents, you'll be happy to know that the scent does not last long after application.
This lipstick applies smoothly with medium to full coverage. The color is very bold and vibrant and I love it. The formula is very creamy and moisturizing but not greasy at all. However, I have one major complaint with this lipstick; major slippage. I'm going to hunt for a lip liner to match, or a nude lipliner to match this lipstick because I love it so much. I hope it will be the answer to my problem. Besides the slippage and occasional migration of this lipstick, there is a lot to love. Although slippage can be a major problem, I do believe it is a problem that can be maintained. I generally apply an-ever-so-light sweep of translucent powder over my lipsticks, but I was on a rush to work and didn't have time. I will be updating this post the next time I wear this stick. With that being said, there is a lot to love about this formula. The vibrancy and the pigmentation of this shade is just amazing and this is definitely the longest wearing lipstick I have tried. It faded in two parts. The glossy-like finish lasts for about 3 hours. The color that is left on your lips is almost like a stain, but it isn't completely matte. In total this lipstick lasted for about 6 hours until I ate. I would like to mention that I did not eat during the 6 hours and there was a minimal about of drinking. This isn't a kiss-proof lipstick either, so it will definitely transfer on to your loved ones. But with a lipstick so beautiful, I think I can handle my lips being in "look but don't touch" mode. Overall, I would definitely recommend this lipstick. With a slight adjustment to my beauty routine, this could be one of my favorite lipsticks.
Definitely a Favorite
Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm with SPF 25 can be found at Sephora, Nordstrom and Dillards for $7-$8 depending on where you shop. Jack Black is actually a company that provides grooming products for men. Their products range from hand cream to facial scrubs, shaving creams to facial moisturizers. They boast eco-friendly ingredients, and I was pleased to discover that their lip balm is formulated without sulfates, petro-chemicals and other harmful synthetic ingredients. I first heard about this lip balm from Temptalia, and Christine just raved about it! So I purchased this during my last Sephora order, because I am very picky about my lip balms and I just had to try it. Jack Black products are geared towards men, but this lip balm is definitely gender neutral. You can purchase two scents "Original" and "Lemon & Chamomile." Original has mint in it, so I imagine it has a minty flavor. I purchased Lemon & Chamomile, which tastes like a delicious Lemon coffee cake. I haven't been able to use it everyday like I would like, because it somehow keeps disappearing and reappearing in my boyfriend's nightstand! The formula is very moisturizing, but it isn't sticky at all. As a balm, it is thicker than a gloss, but it is still very creamy and smooth. I am constantly reapplying lip balm or gloss through out the day, and this balm keeps my lips moisturized for 6+ hours depending on my activities through out the day. My boyfriend's lips can be pretty badly chapped, and this balm does just the trick. Overall, I can see why so many have raved over this lip balm. It contains SPF 25 which is essential for any lip balm and other ingredients to help improve the health of your lips. The consistency is almost perfect and it really moisturizes. I will have to purchase another, since my tube keeps disappearing so often. I just wish the tube was a tad bigger! Check out my blog <a href='http://www.izntlifesojuicy.blogspot.com' rel='nofollow' target='_blank'>www.izntlifesojuicy.blogspot.com</a> for more reviews and swatches
One of my favorite glosses
Revlon ColorBurst Lipglosses can be found at most major drug stores including Walmart and Walgreens. Depending on where you buy, these glosses range from $6-$8. They come in 15 gorgeous shades. Most do contain shimmer, but some are more shimmery than others. If you haven't figured it out already, Revlon is one of my favorite beauty brands right now. Their products are pretty consistent and reliable, and they maintain good quality for the price point. They have improved the packaging as well, and I really like the packaging the used for the ColorBurst Lipglosses and Lipsticks. It is very chic and functional. A new feature in this gloss is the applicator. I couldn't tell if I liked it at first, but after using it a couple times I definitely got the hang of it. It is a sponge applicator with a twist; it its flexible and double sided. The flexibility of the tip allows the gloss to apply smoothly over every contour of your lips, preventing a glossy mess. I am very pleased with this formula as well. These glosses have a light vanilla scent that isn't too noticeable and does not linger. And for those of you who hate sticky lipglosses, these aren't sticky AT ALL. They are very smooth and almost gel-like, but not sticky. They are very moisturizing, but the color doesn't bleed either. However, if you are looking for a full coverage, opaque lipgloss, these aren't it. They are semi-sheer, because they still impart a good amount of color and they do provide some coverage. The shimmer varies from shade to shade, and with the two shades I purchased, the shimmer looks lovely. It isn't grainy or gritty shimmer either, just a smooth gloss here. Rosegold is a bronzed rosey shade with gold flecks of shimmer. Papaya is a bright coral with pinky-peach flecks of shimmer. Both shades an intense amount of shine! I'm lovin the amount of shine in these glosses, and the shine lasts for a good while. On average, these glosses lasted for 2 1/2 hours, less if you eat or drink. Overall, I definitely recommend checking this lipglosses out. They are now one of my favorite lipglosses, and I plan on grabbing a few more shades. I'm really obsessed with Papaya right now because I love love love corals in the summer!
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Nicely Pigmented
Hard Candy Fox in a Box in Skinny Dipping can be found at Walmart and <a href='http://Walmart.com' rel='nofollow' target='_blank'>Walmart.com</a> for $6. The "Fox in a Box" line comes in 6 blushes. Some feature a pair of two shades like Skinny Dipping and others feature a quad of colors. Skinny Dipping features a cool-toned Bronzy shade, and a Coral/Orangey shade. Each shade can be worn alone or mixed together. I find myself mixing the shades and just swirling my brush around on a regular basis. Both shades have some shimmer to them, but I don't find them overly apparent when applied. The shades are nicely pigmented and blend well. It does take a little bit more effort to loosen up the powder, but I don't mind because I hate too much fall out Once applied, it lasted almost 6 hours. This is average wear for me, I normally don't get more than 6 hours with a blush. The packaging could be better. At first glance, It reminded me of Benefit's blush packaging. And although I do not own Coralista, from the swatches I have seen, the shades do look similar. Benefit's Box however, has a top that is not attached and fits over the base that holds the color pan. Hard Candy's version features an attached top that swings back and forth. Nothing secures the lid, so it is free to swing back and forth if tossed in your purse. If you want to travel with this blush, I would recommend using a rubber band to wrap around the box to keep the lid in place. The box is also made of cardboard, which can get crush, so I would recommend placing it at the top of your travel bag. Another waste in packaging in this brush. I honestly have no idea why beauty companies are so obsessed with wasting money on flimsy brushes that don't work. Isn't anyone telling these companies no one is using them???? Overall, I was pleasantly surprised with the quality of this blush. It is such a pretty shade, and I have been using it a lot on a day to day basis. Totally worth the price! Unfortunately, the packaging is very functional, so you would need to take an extra step with this box if you are traveling.
Check out my original post for more swatches and my complete review <a href='http://izntlifesojuicy.blogspot.com/2011/05/hard-candy-fox-in-box-in-skinny-dipping.html' rel='nofollow' target='_blank'>http://izntlifesojuicy.blogspot.com...</a>
The two products in one is a nice feature
Finally! I have found a lip scrub that works well! I had previous tried Pop Beauty and Tarte Cosmetics lip scrubs but I wasn't really happy with the results. But I really like this balm. I picked up this lip scrub at Victoria's Secret for $15. I haven't really tried any Victoria's Secret beauty products, but their VS Pro line intrigues me. This jar contains two different products; the top unscrews to reveal the scrub and the top flips up to reveal the balm. The scrub is just the right texture for me. It isn't overly gritty, and it doesn't melt the minute you apply it to your lips. It tastes sweet and has a pleasant smell but it isn't very strong. The balm is also nice, it's not too greasy, and it has a nice, light mint scent. With this product, you first apply the scrub to your lips with your finger. Then you rub your finger back in forth to scrub you lips. Next, you wipe off the scrub with a tissue and voila! My lips were so smooth! Finally, after the scrub is removed you may apply the lip balm to condition your lips. I really like the performance of this lip scrub. However, I'm not so thrilled about the ingredients. There are a lot of preservatives and words I cannot pronounce. Because your lips are such a sensitive area, I wish VS used less synthetic ingredients. This is great to use to prepare to lip color application, or to remove a day of lip color or lip stain. The scrub also works well in removing dead or dry skin on your lips that contribute to chapped lips. During the winter months (at least if you live in an area that actually experience seasons unlike me) lips are more prone to becoming dry and cracked. Using lip balm daily, and a lip scrub a few times a week will keep your lips supple and soft. See more pictures at <a href='http://www.izntlifesojuicy.blogspot.com' rel='nofollow' target='_blank'>www.izntlifesojuicy.blogspot.com</a>
In LOVE
Victoria's Secret Love Me Wild Limited-Edition Radiant Face Trio can be found at Victoria's Secret retail stores and at <a href='http://www.victoriassecret.com' rel='nofollow' target='_blank'>www.victoriassecret.com</a>. I purchased the shade "White Hot" for $16. One of my readers suggested this to me after I reviewed Victoria's Secret Love Me Wild Limited-Edition Lipstick, and I've been in love ever since. "White Hot" is the perfect name for this shade. I thought the darker shades in the trio would show more, but they don't. Instead, they blend together to make a pearly luminous highlighter. This is more of a neutral highlighter, that can be used with cool or warm tones. It is neither too pink nor too yellow/gold. The shimmer is very finely milled, but pretty shimmery. It is also very buildable, so if you are hesitant or new to highlighters, you won't be overwhelmed. However, out of most of the highlighters I've tried, I think this one is the most noticeable. The formula is very velvety, smooth and soft and blends well. It lasts for 6-7 hours, and it faded pretty well. Overall, I have to admit I LOVE this highlighter. I pretty much use it every day. The formula is good, the packaging is cute, what more could you ask for? The Love Me Wild collection has been out for a few months now, so I would recommend grabbing them before they're gone
You can find my original post and more swatches at <a href='http://www.izntlifesojuicy.blogspot.com' rel='nofollow' target='_blank'>www.izntlifesojuicy.blogspot.com</a>
Great Shades, a Little Drying
These Lip Creams can now be found at ULTA, <a href='http://nyxcosmetics.com' rel='nofollow' target='_blank'>nyxcosmetics.com</a>, and <a href='http://cherryculter.com' rel='nofollow' target='_blank'>cherryculter.com</a> for around $6. These creams are available in 11 shades ranging from nudes to a deep reds. They have a sweet vanilla scent that I found very pleasant. The feeling of these when they are applied is very hard to explain, but it is a very soft and silky feel. Application isn't too difficult with a sponge tip applicator, so it allows for more precise application. However, you will notice that it takes a few swipes in order to get the color as even as possible. I apply these much like how I would apply a lip gloss. But these creams give a very good color pay off and are fairly opaque. The two shades I purchased are rich and vibrant in color. As with most matte formulas, any flaw in your lips is more likely to show. I would recommend using a lip scrub followed by a lip balm to prep and moisturize your lips. I would apply the lip balm a half hour to hour before application to prevent any slipping. The most disappointing aspect of these creams were how they dried. When first applied, the creams appear slightly glossy, but dry to become matte. Once completely dry (10-20 minutes) these lip creams completely settled in to every nook and cranny on the lips. They over emphasized all of the lines and creases in my lips and I found it quite unsightly. Because they are matte, they do feel a bit drying. I applied a light gloss that eliminated the emphasis of my lip creases, but that defeats the purpose of a matte lip. With the gloss, I got almost 3 hours of wear. Overall, I'm not sure I would recommend these to be worn alone unless you like a "cracked lip" look. However, if you fall in love with a shade in this collection, wearing a clear gloss as a top coat will prevent the "cracked lip" look.
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Non-greasy, good results.
Yes To brands can be found in most major drugstores, including Target, Walgreens and ULTA. You can find my first review of their products here. Yes To products are at least 95% natural, containing different organic ingredients and minerals. This daily moisturizer runs around $14.99. The Yes to Cucumbers collection focuses on clear skin and acne treatments. Yes to Tomatoes claims that "Tomatoes contain Lycopene which is a potent antioxidant found in red fruits and vegetables. Its anti-inflammatory properties encourage a balanced and clearer complexion whilst the vitamins are useful in the control of sebum secretion." Sebum is an acne causing oil that clogs your pores. Yes to Tomatoes Clear Skin Daily Balancing Moisturizer is designed for combination/oily skin, which is perfect for me. This moisturizer also helps with blotchiness. The moisturizer is soft and smooth and absorbs into the skin very nicely. It doesn't leave your skin feeling oily or greasy, but definitely moisturized. I love the smell, its a mix between sweet and savory. It sort of reminds me of pumpkin pie. The scent lasts for a bout a minute, and after that it doesn't linger. So if you aren't too into the scent, you won't be stuck with it all day. The pump is also convenient, I use about 2 1/2 pumps. I have been using this moisturizer for a couple of weeks now, and I have noticed a slight improvement in the overall appearance of my skin. My skin was less blotchy and looked better with out make-up. Acne-wise, my breakouts are normally sporadic so it is hard to tell. However, I haven't had any major break outs since I began using the moisturizer. Overall, I really like using this moisturizer and I would definitely recommend trying it if you are the need for a face moisturizer. Now that the warmer months are coming, I would prefer it to contain SPF, but I know there are good and bad aspects to SPF in a daily moisturizer. But I do have SPF in my foundation! <a href='http://izntlifesojuicy.blogspot.com/' rel='nofollow' target='_blank'>http://izntlifesojuicy.blogspot.com...</a>
Pretty Cool Toned Nude
These lipsticks can be found at Victoria's Secret Stores and online at <a href='http://www.victoriassecret.com' rel='nofollow' target='_blank'>www.victoriassecret.com</a> for $14. The formula is pretty creamy and smooth for these lipsticks. I have a Perfect Lipstick that I purchased a few months ago and these have the same consistency. They have good coverage but this lipstick last for 2 1/2 hours on me. The new Love Me Wild Collection also includes eyeshadow quads, blush, and bronzers. The Perfect Lipsticks come in four shades; Pulse, Instinct, Heartbeat, & Heated.
I purchased Instinct, I did like the other shades but I was trying not to do over do like I have been lately. I did get to swatch the colors in the store and they are all very pretty colors. Heated is actually pretty much the same shade as MAC Jazzed in the In the Groove Collection. Jazzed was also a limited edition, so if you liked it and didn't have a chance to grab it, I would pick up Heated before they sell out! Instinct is a pale pinky nude with a little bit of frost. It is a very pretty color, and a nice nude for my skin tone. Sometimes nudes can look orange with my skin. I think I would have gotten longer wear if I had used a darker shade. The packaging is so cute and pretty! But the cap is pretty flimsy and cheap feeling, so I could see it cracking someday. Overall, I love the texture of these lipsticks and their performance is decent. If any of these shades interest you, I would suggest picking one up.
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Very cool effect!
I can't believe how long I waited to review these! I actually ordered these over a month ago at <a href='http://SallyBeauty.com' rel='nofollow' target='_blank'>SallyBeauty.com</a> for $4.99 with my Beauty card. However as of today, most of shades are out of stock online. But you may also purchase these nail polishes at <a href='http://Ulta.com' rel='nofollow' target='_blank'>Ulta.com</a>. These polishes come in 6 shades, but for now I only have 3. I might order some more if they come back in stock at Sally's because they are less expensive with my Beauty Card. I purchased Cracked Concrete, Crushed Candy and Black Mesh. When using these, you first apply a colored base coat and allow to dry completely. I recommend letting your base coat dry for 5-10 minutes so you don't have problems later on. I think think there is a little of a learning curve when applying the crackle polish. Black Mesh dried and cracked the fastest, so you need to take that into account when applying. Instead of applying the polish from the middle outward, I recommend applying from side to middle to side without much overlapping. Once you apply the crackle polish, you need to wait 5 minutes and then you must apply a clear top coat. Black Mesh and Cracked Concrete "crackled" the best in my opinion. With Crushed Candy, the crackles were larger and more vertical than both horizontal and vertical. Nail polishes and manicures never last long on me because of all the things I do, but I did think these chipped a little more than normal. Overall, I definitely recommend these polishes. There has been a crackle craze since OPI's Shattered came out and I think China Glaze Crackled polishes offer a better alternative. Not only are they less expensive, but they offer a variety of shades for different looks. I love the cracked look and I think they are an easy way to be creative with your manicure. Visit my blog for more swatches! <a href='http://www.izntlifesojuicy.blogspot.com' rel='nofollow' target='_blank'>www.izntlifesojuicy.blogspot.com</a>