Guest Post: Review: Bobbi Brown Luminous Moisturizing Foundation

Guest Post Written by Lindsay

We're all on an endless journey to discovering our favorite foundation - From one foundation fanatic to another, Lindsay of 'Lindsay C Makeup' shares with us her opinion on Bobbi Brown Luminous Moisturizing Foundation.

Bobbi Brown Luminous Moisturizing Foundation

I am a foundation addict! I can admit it. I have found many foundations I love or really like but I have yet to declare one my *Holy Grail.* So far, I have been loving my Bobbi Brown foundation.

The Bobbi Brown Luminous Moisturizing Foundation claims:
It gives skin a soft, healthy, even-toned glow as it helps reverse the visible signs of aging. Formulated with a natural collagen boosting, skin firming blend of Hexapeptides and Milk Thistle Extract. Softens fine lines and imperfections. Skin looks and feels refreshed, renewed and beautifully luminous. Offers medium-to-full coverage. For Normal to Dry Skin.

Bobbi Brown Luminous Moisturizing Foundation in Natural Tan 4.25 (MAC NW35-40 equivalent)

This foundation is definitely moisturizing! It kept my super-dry skin moisturized throughout the whole day. The consistency and feel reminds me of NARS Sheer Glow. However, I feel the Bobbi Brown lasts much longer but a bit more matte than Sheer Glow. It gives a 'luminous' finish without looking glittery or shiny. The website claims it provides medium to full coverage, but I found it to be more light maybe light-medium coverage. The foundation blends nicely with a foundation brush or sponge. Overall, I'd rate it an 8/10 because it gives me a natural glow without fading throughout the day.

Becca Frangipani Creme Blush Review - My Favorite blush right now!

Becca Frangipani Creme Blush

Alright, so I've been using this blush for the past month, which explains why it looks like shimmery slop in a compact. You can quote me on this, but I'm pretty sure it's safe to say that if the makeup police confiscated all of my blushes and told me I can only have one, I'd either be kicking and screaming or sitting there dumbfounded at which blush I'd pick. AHA! That is, before I discovered this beauty.

One makeup product that I enjoy most of all is blush. I don't know why, but I find a pretty blush hard to resist. Needless to say, I have loads of options in the morning for which cheek rouge I want to wear for the day. Because I'm full of love, I like to give each blush special attention, trying not to neglect past favorites and devote all of my attention to my new loves. So it's very (and I really mean very) rare for me to find a blush that I can wear for weeks straight without switching it up. That's why I think Becca Frangipani is extra special. 

I'm pretty new to Becca, but I have to say that they sure know what they're doing when it comes to creating quality cosmetics. It seems that I'm knocking out trying each of their best sellers one by one (Compact Concealer, Mineral Bronzing Powder, Beach Tint) - and now the Creme Blush.

Becca Creme Blush is described as being highly pigmented, yet because of the smooth texture, it diffuses into the skin for a natural and healthy "glow from within" appearance. There are no parabens or preservatives. It's recommended for most skin types except very oily or blemished skin - that is because cream blush can make oily skin appear oilier, and it won't last as long, and for very blemished skin, it can emphasize blemishes. 

There are eight (8) shades available: Turkish Rose (rosy nude), Terracotta (neutral apricot), Byzantine (peach gold shimmer), Wild Orchid (violet pink), Hayacinth (bright watermelon pink), Dahlia (rich burnt red/orange), Amaryllis (dusty pink), Geranium (muted red) and Frangipani (tropical pink shimmer). 

From the way Frangipani looks in the compact, tropical pink shimmer isn't exactly how I'd describe it. It looks more like a metallic/shimmery silvery red. Depending on the lighting, it can also look plum (the red tone really only shows through in the sunlight). The name 'Rose Bronze', or maybe 'Rose-Berry' seems more appropriate, but, don't let the looks of it scare you away. It looks like it has a rosy-red base, but with the silver metallic hybrid, it creates a beautiful rosy-pink hue. It's not a shade only warm skinned gals can benefit from, but a shade that's flattering to many. Possibly a highlight for some? The color definitely isn't one-dimensional and leaves the skin flushed and glowing in any light. 

Chanel 'In Love' Joues Contraste Blush - A Lovely Summer Peach.

 Chanel In Love Joues Contraste Blush

Chanel In Love Joues Contraste Blush ($43) is a medium peachy-coral with very fine golden shimmer. It applies sheer (but buildable) and gives off a soft, peachy-coral glow. The shimmer is tasteful and isn't chunky or frosty. It gives the illusion of very fresh, healthy, glowing cheeks. It has a slight vibrancy to the color, which makes it a really nice pick for the summer. It's almost like a peach version of Nars Orgasm Blush.

Chanel Joues Contraste Blushes are finely milled, super soft textured, pressed powder blushes - that when you touch them, you almost feel like because of the texture, they will apply powdery, like some of the softer textured budget brand blushes. But they apply such a soft, sheer veil of color to the cheeks that never looks blotchy or overdone. It's buildable, so with a couple of layers, you can really achieve intense color (if that's what you're looking for), otherwise, one layer deposits the perfect amount of blush.

Chanel Joues Contraste Blush is available in eleven (11) shades: Imprevu, Orchid Rose, Rose Bronze, Rose Petale, In Love, Espiegle, Rose Ecrin, Pink Explosion, Plum Attraction, Malice and Tumulte. (You can correct me if I'm mistaken, but there are 11 currently listed on the website)

Becca Peach Beach Tint Review, Photos and Swatches!

Becca Peach Beach Tint for the Cheeks and Lips

I've been a fan of Becca products as of lately, and although they aren't talked about much because 1)They're expensive and 2)They aren't widely available, I have loved everything I've tried.

I can't really say I'm a pro when it comes to cheek stains - to be honest, I've only tried one in the past, and it was a deluxe sample of Benefit Posietint. I was interested in giving cheek stains another try since Summer is just around the corner and when it's hot and muggy, there's nothing I love more than wearing a product that I can't feel on my face, and one that I won't have to worry about budging throughout the day.

I know Tarte is a very popular choice for cheek stains, but I felt like stepping into the world of Becca once again.

Becca Beach Tint is a cream stain that can be used on the cheeks and lips. It's "kiss-proof" and water-resistant and blends seamlessly (streak-free) into a non-greasy finish (it's oil-free!)

Becca Beach Tints are available in seven (7) shades: Strawberry (warm orange red), Watermelon (bright pink), Peach (warm orange pink), Raspberry (deep berry pink), Grapefruit (pale coral pink), Fig (tea rose pink) and Guava (bright coral pink).

Maybelline Great Lash Lots of Lashes Mascara Review + Before and After!

Maybelline Great Lash Lots of Lashes Mascara

I'm sure the majority of us, regardless of age, have owned this little pink tube of mascara with the green cap at some point in our life. When I pass by the the makeup aisles and catch a glance at Maybelline Great Lash Mascara, it instantly reminds me of when I was about twelve or thirteen, when I first developed my love for makeup. Sure, it wasn't "all that", but it was cheap and at the time, it got the job done.

Needless to say, I have never repurchased it since because I like a little (or a lot) more oomph in my lashes, which the very natural, smudgy results of Maybelline Great Lash didn't prevail. So, Maybelline came out with a little something called Maybelline Great Lash Lots of Lashes, a new spin on the classic original. 

This new mascara claims to provide "lots of impact", while the unique brush design grabs each lash for maximum separation and volume.

*Note: The directions state to not let this mascara dry between coats. For the best results, apply the mascara until you are satisfied with the achieved look. (more about this later)

It's available in three shades: Blackest Black, Very Black and Brown Black. I chose Blackest Black, as I always do.

Sigma Tapered Highlighter and Face Brushes Review!

Sigma F25 Tapered Face Brush & F35 Tapered Highlighter Brush

You might remember me talking recently about wanting a domed shaped powder brush, and how I've had my eye on the Sigma F35 Tapered Highlighter Brush. I'm not sure if it's the unique shape of the brush head, or the fact that you don't see them around too often and I wanted something different (you mostly see the regular, standard, boring brush shapes) - All I knew was that I needed one (or two) in my collection even if I don't really need it.

So, I went ahead and ordered both brushes after not being able to choose one over the other.

F25 Tapered Face Brush - Designed for precise product placement of powder, blush and contour shades to the face. ($22)
F35 Tapered Highlighter Brush -Designed for precise product placement of highlighter to the face. ($16)

Upon waiting for my order, I was a little nervous that the brushes wouldn't be soft. I own a few sets of Sigma brushes and they are for the most part very soft, but I also have a couple duds that aren't very soft at all (F50 Duo Fiber and F05 Small Contour).

A simple & pretty eyeshadow tutorial, using one eyeshadow and an eyeliner!

Here's the look we're going to achieve...

I wanted to do this really simple, but really pretty tutorial today using only one eyeshadow and a few basic tools. You can do the same look using any color you want - it definitely doesn't have to be the same color I chose and you can make any substitutions you'd like!

Products Used:
Urban Decay Primer Potion *not pictured (used in step 1)
MAC 'Bronze' Eyeshadow (used in step 6 and 8)
MAC 'Feline' Kohl Eye Pencil (used in step 2 and 4)
Maybelline Great Lash Lots of Lashes Mascara (used in step 10)

Brushes/Tools Used:
Sponge applicator (to pack on the color, used in step 6)
Precision Tip Cotton Swabs (for smudging the eye liner, you can use any brush or pointed sponge applicator if you'd like - used in step 3 and 5)
Sigma Small Angle Brush (used in step 8)
Coastal Scents Tapered Blending Brush (used in step 7)

Revlon Photoready 3D Volume Mascara Review + Before and After!

Revlon Photoready 3D Volume Mascara

Ever since Revlon Photoready 3D Volume Mascara launched, I've been wanting to try it because of the appealing packaging. Revlon products in general have better product packaging than most of the other drugstore brands, but I think it was the shape of the brush along with the sleek black and silver tube that did it for me. Although the reviews for this mascara are pretty mixed, I couldn't wait to try it once my Maybelline Falsie's Mascara was finished.

The rubber brush has loads of thin bristles with a rounded tip, to easily reach every single lash for "maximum dimension". There aren't any claims that this mascara lengthens, but it's suppose to deliver lots of volume with two coats.

Revlon Photoready 3D Volume Mascara is available in three (3) shades: Blackest Black, Blackened Brown and Black. I purchased Blackest Black, of course.

Sigma Mr. Bunny Travel Kit Review!

Sigma Mr. Bunny Black Travel Kit

The Sigma Mr. Bunny Brush Sets are Sigma's synthetic, or vegan version of their Make Me Up Brush (which I own and love) Collection.

If you're familiar with Sigma Brushes, this set uses the same "Sigmax HD Fibers" as the popular F80 Flat Top Synthetic Kabuki. The bristles are super soft and fluffy, and although they are synthetic, the bristles higher quality than synthetic brushes you may find at the drugstore (Ecotools, etc).

This set includes:

Pencil E30 - Precise application of color on the crease, outer corner, upper and lower lash line.
Tapered Blending E40 - Rounded and tapered top. Specially designed to apply and blend color on the crease.
Eye Shading E55 - Soft and dense with a rounded finish. Can be used to apply pressed or loose eye shadows and pigments.
Small Angle E65 - Essential for the application of gel or cream eye liner on the upper and lower lash line.
Large Powder F30 - Very dense with a rounded top. Ideal to apply powder products on face and body.
Large Angled Contour F40 - The angled shape makes this brush ideal to apply blush or contour shades.
Foundation F60 - Can be used to apply liquid or cream foundation. Recommended to apply moisturizers and conceal large areas.

All of the brushes have the same name as the regular Sigma brushes, so it might be a little confusing, but you can't actually order these brushes separately, which may be the reason.

Maybelline SuperStay 14-Hr Lipstick in Please Stay Plum.

Maybelline SuperStay 14-Hr Lipsticks launched at the start of the new year, and frankly, we haven't heard too much buzz about them.

Maybelline already has a Stain Gloss and Lip Color (the standard double-sided sponge applicator lip color with a clear conditioning balm on the opposite end), but they added a lipstick to the line, promising 14 hours of non-drying, comfortable wear.

Available in 20 shades: Perpetual Peony, Ultimate Blush, Fuschia Forever, Eternal Rose, Beige For Good, Never Ending Nude, Ceaseless Caramel, Consistently Truffle, Lasting Chestnut, Pout on Pink, Ravishing Rouge, Eduring Ruby, Timeless Crimson, Continuous Cranberry, Keep Me Coral, Infinite Iris, Till Mauve Do Us Part, Please Stay Plum, Endless Raisin, Wine and Forever.

I have Please Stay Plum, a deep, creamy wine.

I think the 14-hour claim is really alluring, as we all want our lipstick to last all day, but it also makes some of us weary because usually along with "long-lasting" lipstick formulas, you're usually left with lips that are shriveled, crying for moisture.

Reviewing an old favorite: Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation.

Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation

I've talked and recommended this foundation on many occasions, but I don't actually have a post dedicated to it. It's been requested on a few occasions, and since I've been wearing it almost every day lately, it's reminded me of how much I love this foundation and figured it'd be the perfect time for a review on it!

My love for this foundation dated back six years ago when I was in the market for a full coverage foundation. I was recommended Estee Lauder Double Wear and haven't looked back!

This miracle in a bottle claims to provide flawless, lasting coverage that will withstand heat, humidity and sweat while feeling lightweight on the skin and looking completely natural throughout the day.

It's also smudge-proof, oil-free, Non-acnegenic and fragrance free.

There are 21 shades in total, and the shades are broken up into three categories, making it easier to find the right shade for your undertone. *As a side note, neutral in the Estee Lauder Double Wear line refers to peach.

W = Warm (1W1 Bone, 1W2 Linen, 2W1 Sand, 3W1 Tawny, 4W1 Shell Beige, 5W1 Bronze, 6W2 Spice)
N = Neutral (1N1 Ecru, 2N1 Desert Beige, 2N2 Fresco, 3N1 Ivory Beige, 4N1 Wheat, 5N1 Soft Tan, 6N1 Truffle)
C = Cool (1C1 Shell, 2C1 Dusk, 3C1 Pebble, 4C1 Suede, 5C1 Rich Chestnut, 6C1 Rich Cocoa)

*Warm = red, yellow undertones, Cool = pink/rosy undertones. 

When I have no tan (MAC NC15-20 coloring) I use shade 1W1 Bone. When I'm tan (MAC NC35-NC40 coloring) I use 3W1 Tawny. Tawny is slightly light when I'm NC40, but the next shade up (Shell Beige) lacks enough yellow.

READ MORE!

Step by Step Eyeshadow Tutorial with Dramatic Black Liner and a Darkened Crease.

Two tutorials in one week, what!? Yeah I know, pretty unusual, but I thought it'd be a nice change from reviews all of the time. This particular look focuses mainly on the dramatic (thick) winged liner and the contrast against the precisely darkened crease and the contrasting light shade on the lids. This is more of a going out/nighttime look, as it's quite dramatic for the daytime. You can take it up a notch by adding black liner to the waterline or adding a full strip of false lashes.

Products Used:

MAC Groundwork Paint Pot (light brown cream eyeshadow, used as a base in step 1)

MAC Malt Eyeshadow (used in step 2 and step 8)
MAC Corduroy Eyeshadow (used in step 4 and step7)
MAC Black Tied Eyeshadow (used in step 5 and step 6)
Dior Rosy Tan (used the middle shade for a highlight in step 3)
Anastasia Shimmer Highlight Pencil (used in step 11)
Illamasqua Mislead Cake Eyeliner (used in step 9 and step 10)
Maybelline The Falsie's Mascara (used in step 12)
Andrea Medium Flare Individual Lashes (used in step 13)

Brushes Used:
Coastal Scents Concealer Brush
MAC 224 Tapered Blending Brush
Sigma Pencil Brush
Sigma Small Angle Brush
Coastal Scents Tapered Blending Brush
Coastal Scents Small Eyeliner Brush

READ MORE!

A few of my old never-fail products - and yep, they're all MAC.

I'm sure most of us makeup fanatics have a few products in our makeup stash that you can consider your "never fail" products. They are the often neglected, but never forgotten products that you know you can use, and they'll never let you down. You may not use them every day, but once you run out, you know you have to purchase another to replace it. Maybe it's a certain eyeliner or a particular blush. Maybe it's one item in each category. I'm sure I have a few more than I'm mentioning - but I wanted to dedicate a post to these few that stood out to me and always have a warm place in my heart: MAC Studio Fix Fluid Foundation, MAC Studio Finish Concealer and MAC Select Cover-Up.

It's a complete coincidence that they're all MAC products - and it's even a bigger coincidence that they are some of the first MAC products I ever tried.

I remember my first trip to MAC like it was yesterday. I was a senior in highschool and it was my first time ever buying non-drugstore makeup. I purchased (George purchased it, actually. We just started dating at the time!) Studio Fix Fluid in NC40, Blot Powder in Med-Dark, Select Cover-up in Peach, Paint in Bare Canvas and Eyeshadows in Gorgeous Gold, Moons Reflection and Aquadisiac. Aside from the shadows, I continue using all of those products till this day.

READ MORE!

Lust List Vol. 001

What's a lust list? It's basically a list (or collage) of material items you're "lusting" after or wish you had! Some people like to create these little collages as a way to organize items they admire, or to use it as kind of like a shopping list for items they'd like to purchase at some point. I think they are fun to read, and fun to create!

Well, I've got my eyes on so many things right now I knew I had to put a list together.

So, here goes my jumbled list of things that have running through my mind lately.

Zara Studded Evening Bag Box - I'm phasing out of my spike obsession, but I love edgy pieces and I think this clutch is adorable. I know I probably wouldn't get much use out of it though, so I may opt for the matching studded ankle strap sandals - something I could wear more often.

Zara Die-cast Pleated Shopper - I don't know why but I've been thinking about this bag for weeks. I can't seem to get it out of my mind. I know it's way too big to be practical and the handles are too small to wear it comfortably, but something keeps telling me that I need it in my life. 

Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Enhancer - Apparently this cream foundation is pigmented enough to work as a concealer, while somehow looking completely natural. Reviews state that you only need a tiny amount for the whole face and a little jar will last for ages. I'm seconds away from placing an order. What doesn't sound good about this stuff!?

Chanel Joues Contraste Blush in Tumulte - I'm a sucker for Chanel blushes as well as anything pink, so naturally this newly released Joues Contraste ended up on my list. I have yet to see it in person, but I can tell from various blog posts that it's gorgeous!

Giorgio Armani Master Corrector - I think this product has been on my invisible lust list for the past couple of years but neglected ever purchasing it. Well, still neglecting it, but I'm trying to remind myself that I have to try it one of these day. I haven't read any reviews that weren't positive about this magic little tube for the under-eyes.

Guerlain Terracotta Blush in Sunny Pink - I freaked out when I first saw swatches for this Guerlain Summer Collection blush. Get a look at this swatch and tell me it won't look amazing on the cheeks. The only thing that's kept me from purchasing it, is that it may be reminiscent of Nars Orgasm - I don't need another one in my collection. Any insight for those that own it?

(Image Source: naturalchicmakeup)

Guerlain By Emilio Pucci Météorites Perles D’azur Illuminating Powder - I'm a huge fan of Guerlain Meteorites. They are such a luxurious product, and are fun to apply! I use them as a setting powder, and they erase any oily shine from my face, and leave a beautiful glow behind. My face is always glowing when I use these pearls. Do I really need another one? Probably not, but this one is so pretty that I think I may splurge.

Sigma Tapered Highlighting Brush - I've had it in my head that I need a domed brush in my collection. I'm not really sure if I do, but Sigma probably has the most affordable one, so I'll probably end up ordering it in the near future. Anyone have this brush? Do you like it?

Diorskin Nude Tan Nude Glow Sun Powder - Ahh, last but not least, the Dior bronzers from the Dior Summer 2012 Collection. I have yet to see reviews for any, but they look super pretty with the sleek silver packaging, and they come with a mini kabuki. How cute!

What's on your list?

P.S. What do you think of the newly designed Sephora site? I'm not too crazy about it. I liked the previous design better. It was easier for me to navigate

How do you like the new Sephora site?

I love it!

I'm indifferent.

I liked the old site better.

Hope you all have a wonderful night! Tomorrow is Friday - yay!

Sonia Kashuk Take Cover Concealing Stick Review!

Sonia Kashuk Take Cover Concealing Stick

What do you guys think of Sonia Kashuk makeup? To be honest, I've never really tried any of their color cosmetics. When I shop at the drugstore for makeup, I'm usually looking for a really good sale, one where I can typically attach a manufacturer coupon with, to knock off a couple of extra dollars. Then, if it's something that didn't really work out for me, it wasn't a huge blow to my wallet.

Needless to say, Sonia Kashuk cosmetics are a little expensive and they rarely ever go on sale (maybe 10% off once in a while?) So, I figure for a few more dollars I can invest in some MAC. 

Well, Sonia Kashuk's Hidden Agenda Concealer Palette has caused quite the stir in the beauty blogging world. It's a little palette containing two concealers, a neutralizer and setting powder. The concealers look a little dark for my current "light" skintone, so I usually pass it up on my grocery trips to Target. But recently, I got a hold of Sonia's stick concealer in a makeup swap and it's a great match. 

"Buildable medium to high coverage concealer that perfectly hides skin imperfections with an absolute natural, non-powdery finish." - http://soniakashuk.com

Sonia Kashuk Take Cover Concealing Stick is available in three shades: Daylight, Dawn and Dusk. I have the shade Dawn, which is a lovely light, golden beige. It matches my NC15-20 skintone very well.

(From left to right: Daylight, Dawn and Dusk.)

READ MORE! (before & after photos included)

Camera Update.

Good Afternoon, Beauties!

Some of you may know I was in a camera dilemma at the beginning of the month. My Canon Powershot SD3500 IS broke spontaneously, and with products piling up, I had to buy a replacement camera fast. I ended up getting the Nikon Coolpix P500, which I was really excited about and then quickly had my doubts about it after testing it out for a few days. When I photographed makeup, the colors weren't 100% accurate. I know many cameras won't be exactly accurate, but considering the purpose of this camera is to photograph makeup, I don't want to post photos that are misleading. I have to really give props to my old Canon for being very true-to-life in photos. I planned to return the Nikon, but with a busy schedule, I had no other choice but to use it for the mean-time (I have 90 days to return it if I'm not satisfied).

I've been using the Nikon for all of my recent posts, starting from the 9th of April. After messing around with the settings for several days, I figured out the setting that works best and is the most accurate. I can get pretty good photos in the daylight, but at night, it becomes difficult to get accurate coloring. I didn't have that problem with my previous camera and a few daylight bulbs - for whatever reason, the same set-up doesn't work as well with my Nikon.

But, after using it for a couple of weeks, I've grown to really like it. I can't really say yet if I'd recommend it for photographing makeup, but it really is a fabulous camera otherwise and takes very good photos for a point-and-shoot. It's probably the next best thing before purchasing a dslr.

I don't think at this point I'll be returning it unless I happen to come across something else that is much better at a similar price (I paid $299.99 on clearance at Target). I will let you know if my opinion has changed at all. And of course, if you have any questions about the camera, you can leave a comment or send me an e-mail.

Lastly, my blog is featured on the front page of Hellocotton today as "top in beauty"! If you haven't heard of Hellocotton, I urge you to check it out. It's an awesome blog directory with blogs in every category in a very easy to navigate format. Join or Connect with Facebook and Like, Comment and Share your newly discovered favorite blogs!

http://www.hellocotton.com

Step by Step Golden Bronze Eyeshadow Tutorial.

I haven't done a tutorial in a while, so I thought I'd share with you one of my go-to looks when going out. It may seem like a lot of steps, but it's actually very simple, and it takes me all about five minutes to do. You can step it up a notch for night-time wear by adding false lashes and/or liner on the waterline, or you can tone it down for day-time wear by subtracting the outer-v color and liner.

Products Used:
Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer (used in step 1)
MAC Brule Eyeshadow (used in step 5)
MAC Woodwinked Eyeshadow (used in step 2 and 4)
MAC Soba Eyeshadow (used in step 3)
MAC Tempting Eyeshadow (used in step 6)
MAC Brun Eyeshadow (used in step 7 and 8)
Loreal Endless Pearl Infallible Eyeshadow (used in step 10)

MAC Dipdown Fluidline Eyeliner (used in step 9)
Clarins Extra Definition Mascara (used in step 11)

Brushes Used:
Coastal Scents Small Eyeliner Brush
Sigma Small Angle Brush
Sigma Pencil Brush
Sigma Large Shader Brush
Coastal Scents Tapered Blending Brush

CONTINUE READING!

Avon Plumberry Shine Attract Lipstick Review, Photos and Swatches!

Avon Plumberry Shine Attract Lipstick

Call me crazy, but as soon as I twisted up this tube of Avon Shine Attract Lipstick, I wanted to take a bite out of it. Yep, that's right. I wanted to eat it. Doesn't it look like Jell-O? Or a Push-pop? The clear, surrounding layer is actually a stick gloss (for extra shiny lips), while the middle is the actual lip color.

Avon Shine Attract Lipstick is available in fifteen (15) shades: Shimmer Pink, Rose Pink, Mysterious Mauve, Plumberry, Cherry Pie, Guava, Nude Love, All Around Russet, Rose Bouquet, Fuchsia Flare, Wrapped in Raisin, Orchid, Passionate Red, Caressing Coral, Copper Connection.

I have it in the shade plumberry, which is a medium toned plum with fine shimmer.

Because of the clear layer of lipstick, the color is quite sheer with a shiny finish.

Shiseido Sun Protection Liquid Foundation Review!

Shiseido Sun Protection Liquid Foundation

Shiseiso Sun Protection Liquid Foundation is a product I've been wanting to try for years. After being turned down at a couple of Shiseido counters for a sample, I basically forgot about it for a while. It wasn't until lately when I ran across a YouTube video by Fleur, who raved about how she loves it (even more than her favorite Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua) that I decided I need to get my hands on a bottle.

As a part of Shiseido's Sun Protection line, the Sun Protection Liquid Foundation is a thin consistency liquid foundation with high sun protection (SPF 42) that claims to be non-transferrable through heat, water and sweat while looking completely natural.

What stinks about this foundation is the itty-bitty shade selection. It's only available in seven (7) shades: SP10, SP20, SP30, SP40, SP50, SP60 and SP70.



I'm not positive how the numbering system is figured, but I compared the three lightest shades - SP10, SP20 and SP30. They actually all looked like the same, or very similar depths, but with different undertones. SP10 appeared the pinkest of the three, SP20 appeared fairly neutral (nor pink or yellow - a good in-between) and SP30 appeared yellow toned. I ultimately ended up with SP30, which I would say is equivalent to around the MAC NC15-20 coloring.

Here's a comparison-

From left to right: MAC Studio Fix Fluid in NC15, Neutogena Healthy Skin Liquid Foundation in Classic Ivory and Shiseido Sun Protection Liquid Foundation in SP30.

The darkest shade isn't very dark at all. P70 is equivalent to the MAC NC40-NC42 (medium-tan) coloring.

Covergirl Flashy Blastflipstick Blendable Lip Duo Review, Photos and Swatches!

Covergirl Flashy Blastflipstick Blendable Lip Duo

Have you spotted the Covergirl Blast Flipsticks on the racks yet at your local drugstore? Covergirl launched these lip duos at the start of the year, and to be honest, I dismissed them after spotting them at Walmart back in January because A) I didn't spot any barbie pink, and B) I wasn't too fond of the packaging. How shallow I must have been!

Well, I recently got the chance to try one of them, so I can share my thoughts with you all!

If these tubes look familiar to you, it's because the packagaing has a striking resemblance to the Covergirl Smokey Shadow Blasts I reviewed a couple years ago (Which I thought were pretty cool but gave my eyes an allergic reaction. My eyes were waterworks every time I wore them!). It's basically a double ended lipstick wand, with a darker cream shade on one end, and a lighter, shimmery shade on the other. Both colors can be worn separately, or you can layer the lighter shade over the darker one.

There are thirteen (13) shades in total: Whisper, Pucker, Glimmer, Flashy, Vixen, Perky, Tease, Cheeky, Stunner, Snap, Smooch, Minx and Intense.

I own the shade Flashy, a deep purple with a blue duo-chrome, and a light, shimmery magenta. This wouldn't have been my shade of choice, but it's a fab combination for deep to dark skintones!

Covergirl Flashy Blastflipstick Blendable Lip Duo