First Impressions- NYX Worth The Hype Mascara

I purchased the NYX Worth The Hype mascara at Walgreens ($7.99) a few weeks ago and have been using it daily for about two weeks now! In fact, I bought two new tubes for backups. 🙂 No, it hasn’t fully replaced my Benefit Roller Lash, but this mascara is definitely a new favorite!

Photo credit: Walgreens.com

My first thought was that I love love love the full brush! It isn’t bendy and the bristles hug my lashes coating them perfectly.

It was a breeze to do my bottom lashes, as well.

The formula is dry, which I prefer. The product didn’t bombard the brush and clump on my lashes. Any excess was easily removed with a dampened cotton swab.

For a more natural lash, my ride or die mascara is Benefit’s Roller Lash. I doubt I will ever find a mascara to completely replace the Roller Lash, however, the NYX Worth The Hype mascara will definitely be my go to for when I’m in the mood for lush, long, dark lashes. It is simply stunning on my eyes.

My lashes had definite volume, great separation, weren’t clumped together, were long, lush and black. I’d never received compliments on my mascara before but had received many compliments on my eyes in the first two days I used this product. 

The Overalls:

What I like: The wand, the formula, the application, the results, the price! Holy moly, y’all, this mascara is life.

What I don’t like: There isn’t anything I do not like about this mascara. Trust me, I tried to find SOMETHING.  There may be a small amount of transfer from my lower lashes, but it is hardly noticeable.

I am in LOVE with the NYX Cosmetics Worth The Hype mascara. Funny thing is that I haven’t read much about this mascara, or seen it used much on YouTube. It is absolutely worth the hype!

Have you tried the NYX Worth The Hype mascara? What are your thoughts?

Thank you for reading!

 

 

 

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Maybelline totaltemptation Mascara

On a mascara haul, I picked up the Maybelline totaltemptation mascara in Blackest Black. Also, NOT the waterproof formula. Read that debacle with the Covergirl Total Tease mascara here.

This mascara is $7.94 at Walmart. It does come in a waterproof formula and in three colors: Blackest Black, Brownish Black and Very Black. I appreciate that Maybelline has packaged the waterproof formula in a pretty blue tube making it easy to differentiate between the two versions. Yes, sometimes reading packaging is a challenge. 😉

totaltemptation claims from the packaging:

• 85%* saw bold, full volume with no overload
• 92%* saw lengthened lashes
• 4 out of 5* loved their lash look

With this type of mascara formula, I prefer the thick, full brush that this mascara provides. The formula is dry but felt a bit sticky upon application. My initial reaction was that I was definitely going to have major transfer with this mascara. It dried nicely and without flaking.

 

I loved how the wand hugged my lashes and coated them perfectly. The instructions say not to allow the mascara to dry between coats. I used two coats. I even liked the way the mascara applied to my bottom lashes. During the day, I didn’t have any transfer. The mascara has a light fragrance, and I could smell it every so often throughout the day, which was weird, but it wasn’t strong and didn’t irritate my eyes.

I can’t properly photograph my eyes; the photo does not do this mascara justice. My lashes were lush and black.

 

These photos were taken at 6:30pm, after a full day of wear.

After about 4 days of use, the mascara came out of the tube a bit clumpy and didn’t apply to my lashes as nicely. I ended up having to wipe away excess product off the wand before application. It reminded me of how L’Oreal’s Lash Paradise and Too Faced Better Than Sex acted shortly after using. I still liked the mascara and continued to use it daily for 5 days.  Absolutely no transfer, and the mascara held up pretty good for about 10 hours of wear. Cleaning up excess off my skin was a breeze using a dampened cotton swab.

The Overalls:
What I liked: I will definitely continue to use this mascara when I want a dark and lush lash. The wand is perfect for this type of formula. The mascara dries nicely, does not transfer, and wears beautifully for at least 10 hours, and even looks good after an hour sweating at the gym. The mascara is infused with coconut which leads me to believe this is where the scent comes from. The price point is affordable at $7.94. I definitely like this mascara better than the L’Oreal Lash Paradise.

What I did not like: After 4 days, the mascara was clumpy and did not apply as beautifully without having to remove excess from the wand before application. Other than that, I could not find anything else I did not like with the Maybelline totaltemptation mascara.

I give the Maybelline totaltemptation Mascara 4 out of 5 mascara wands. 🙂 The only thing keeping this mascara from being a total 5 is the clumpiness after only 4 days of use. If it behaved more like my beloved Benefit Roller Lash, this mascara would be a 5 and I’d probably not touch my Roller Lash for a long time. I will definitely repurchase and will continue to use the tube I have.

Have you tried the Maybelline totaltemptation Mascara? What were your results?

Thank you for reading! 

 

 

Wet n Wild Nail Polish Haul/Review

I don’t paint my nails as often as I’d like to because I work with my hands and wash my hands about 20 times a day thus causing my nails to chip after just one day. I can’t stand being at work, or anywhere with chipped nail polish! I have even used top coats that are supposed to be similar to having gel nails. It’s frustrating!

I recently purchased a whole lot of polishes from Wet n Wild online. These polishes can be purchased in stores, but the shade ranges available in my local stores are limited.

Wet n Wild is an affordable brand, and cruelty free. 🙂

Let’s get to the goodies!

Hard As Ice Top Coat claims (From the Wet n Wild website):

• Up to 1 Week of Wear and Shine
• 3-Free Technology: No Formaldehyde, Toluene or Phthalates
• Prolongs the wear of nail color
• Brilliant shine that lasts for days
• Helps prevent chipping

1 Step WonderGel claims (From the Wet n Wild website):

The first gel formula that doesn’t require a top coat and cures without a lamp, this nail color breakthrough is about to become your nail MVP.

• Up to 2 weeks of color & shine based on consumer grading
• No UV Light Required
• No Harsh Removal
• 3-Free! No Formaldehyde, Toluene, or Phthalates!

I am wearing two coats of the 1 Step Wondergel in Left Marooned, no top coat.

The swatches are all a generous two coats without a top coat. Shades below are from left to right:

• All That Jazzy
• Crime Of Passion
• Left Marooned

 

Megalast claims (From the Wet n Wild website):

• A revolutionary resin polymer system for exceptional color adhesion
• Calcium and mineral fortified to help prevent nail discoloration
• 3-Free! Formaldehyde, toluene, and phthalate free!
• Our ManiCurve™ Pro Brush! It’s absolutely incredible! The rod is flat so the liquid drains down to the bristles equally, and the rounded bristles hug your nail curves perfectly!

The below photo I am wearing two coats of Haze of Love with a random glitter polish from an e.l.f. Cosmetics holiday collection and one coat of Hard As Ice topcoat.

This polish only lasted about 3 days before it started to chip. It was very pretty, but I was a bit disappointed in its wear time.

The swatches are all a generous two coats with and without a top coat. Shades below are from left to right:

• On A Trip
• Haze Of Love
• Under Your Spell with two coats – this color was sheer with two coats
• Under Your Spell with four coats

Wildshine claims (From the Wet n Wild website):

• Purse Pride! New improved formula and packaging!
• High-shine finish in every color imaginable!
• 3-Free: No Formaldehyde, Toluene, or Phthalates
• Still the #1 selling nail polish in the market!

I am wearing two coats of Burgundy Frost and two coats of Sparked (on my third finger/ring finger) with one coat of the Hard as Ice top coat. I know it looks messy, but I promise I cleaned up the edges! My cuticles were a nightmare. Don’t judge me! 😉

The swatches are all a generous two coats with and without a top coat.

Shades below are from left to right:

• Red Red
• Grasping At Strawberries
• Dreamy Poppy
• Casting Call
• Blazed
• Black Creme
• Be More Pacific

Shades below are from left to right:

• Bijou Blue
• Ready To Propose
• Metallica
• Burgundy Frost
• Sparked

Even without a top coat, the shine is there!

If I hadn’t hit my nail on my Jeep door today after work, my index fingernail would not have chipped and would still look pretty good.

The Overalls:

The 1 Step WonderGel shades are very pretty. I love the price point at $4.99. The polishes are quick drying, and even better do not require the use of a top coat. The brush is perfect in that it coats my nail in one swoop.  The color range is large. The website claims up to 2 weeks of color and shine. This is accurate. After about one week, the polish did chip some on the edges of my nails, but again, as I work with my hands, one week of beautiful looking polish is more than I’ve had with other polishes. The polish removes easily, but it is a bit messy, especially with the darker shades. The cleanup on my skin was easy; I just removed the polish from my nails then went back over my nails and fingers with a clean cotton ball soaked in remover.

The Megalast polishes are quick drying and the shades are beautiful.  The price point is exceptional at $2.49. The colors are creamy and shiny, even without a top coat. I like the brush; it coats my nail perfectly. One shade required 3-4 coats because it was a bit sheer, but most of the polishes have beautiful color with two coats. The color range is fairly decent. The downside is that this polish did not wear for as long as the 1 Step WonderGel and the Wildshine polishes. I got almost 3 days of wear before the polish started to chip. It still held up better than any other brand of polishes and I will continue to use this collection.

WildShine polishes are gorgeous and creamy. They are also shiny without a top coat. The brush is a bit more narrow, but for the price point at $0.99, I can’t complain. The formula is quick drying.  The color range is large. I applied two coats with one coat of the Hard As Nails top coat and after 4 days, I have just a bit of fading at the tips. The polish has not chipped and has held up better than expensive polishes. I am blown away by the longevity of a $0.99 nail polish! The Wildshine polishes are my favorite of the three collections. I am currently wearing the Burgundy Frost with Sparked on my ring fingers. It’s been my favorite combination and one that I have received many compliments on, even from men!

I am incredibly impressed with the Wet n Wild line of nail polishes! I love that I can go at least one week without having to touch up or remove altogether after one day. I know I will now paint my nails more often. I have spent more money on polishes that aren’t as impressive as the Wet n Wild collection. The polishes in each line are definitely worth your money. I look forward to adding more colors in each collection.

I give each collection 4.5 out of 5 Beautifully Manicured Nails.  🙂 The half point is because I believe the polishes would last longer on my nails if I didn’t doink around with poker chips all day.

Have you tried Wet n Wild nail polishes? What are your thoughts?

❤ Cherilyn 

Covergirl Total Tease Mascara

On a recent haul, I picked up the Cover Girl Total Tease waterproof mascara. I grabbed waterproof on accident. Yeah, I know. I wanted to kick myself.

As I was browsing the makeup aisles for mascaras, the pink and black packaging caught my eye, as well as the funky wand.

Before I continue, I have to ask those who wear waterproof mascara, WHY?! And how in the holy hell do you take it off?  I used micellar water, two different makeup remover wipes, the e.l.f. Cosmetics Hydrating Gel Melt Cleanser, as well as Pond’s cold cream, and I was still picking mascara off my lashes. What the heck is in this stuff? I will be more careful in future to read the packaging because this waterproof mascara thing sucked.

Rant over, let’s get to the review. 🙂 Also, if you’ve read this far, Thank You. ❤

At first glance, I liked the wand.

 

The wand is thin and slightly stiff. I thought the little teasing comb would be interesting, and it was easy to use for my outer lashes and my bottom lashes. As for the formula, it’s wet, maybe even a bit oily feeling. The wet formula made application messy, and being that I bought waterproof, cleanup of the excess was a pain. My left eye looked as though I was wearing eyeliner because I couldn’t wipe away the excess, while the right eye appeared neat. These photos were taken around 8:00am. I liked the way my lashes looked. They’re full, long and dark.

 

Throughout the day I did not have any transfer, but by 3:00pm my eyelashes felt sticky and heavy. I could not wait to get home to take it off. In the photos my lashes look like they are stuck together and they certainly felt that way.

 

The Overalls:

What I liked: The application of the Cover Girl Total Tease mascara and how it looked on my lashes. My lashes were dark and nicely coated with natural looking separation. I liked that I did not have transfer throughout the day. I’d be willing to purchase this mascara in the regular formula, even though it is wet and a bit oily. The wand is nice and I found the teasing comb useful for my bottom lashes. The price point is affordable at $7.48 at Walmart. It is just under $9.00 at Ulta.

What I did NOT like: The waterproof version. I do not know if this is why the mascara felt sticky and oily after about 7 hours of wear. Now, while this is not a deal breaker, because 7 hours of wear isn’t too bad, I get a bit more out of my Benefit Roller Lash. And my Roller Lash doesn’t make me feel like I want to rip my eyelashes off  just to remove the product from my eyes!

I would NOT repurchase this mascara, nor will I be using this mascara again. Waterproof mascara is witchcraft and I cannot support such sorcery.

I give the Cover Girl Waterproof Total Tease mascara 1 pair of beautiful black lashes.

Have you tried this mascara in its waterproof formula? What are your thoughts?

❤ Cherilyn 

S&T, Inc. Always Off Makeup Cloths

I picked up these microfiber makeup removing cloths at Walmart. A 3-pack was $2.99.

 

A bit of information about these cloths:

• 6″ x 12″ cloths, (15.2 cm x 30.5 cm)
• Quickly and easily remove makeup
• Plush microfiber gently lifts away dirt, oil and makeup
• Durable and washable
• Eliminate the disposable cloths
• Use wet or with your favorite facial cleanser or makeup remover

I don’t know what I was thinking these were. I guess I thought they were infused with some sort of cleanser that didn’t require water, or only required minimal water to remove makeup. Obviously I didn’t really read the packaging.

Yes, the cloth wiped off my makeup. Sort of. So, I got the cloth wet and yes, it took off my makeup. Kind of. Then I used my e.l.f. Hydrating Gel Melt cleanser, and the cloth took off my makeup. 😐

There’s no need for a long, drawn out post about this, so let’s just get to it.

The Overalls:

It’s a washcloth. It did not remove my makeup any better than a plain ol’ washcloth. The Always Off makeup cloth was actually a bit more tough on my skin because of it being microfiber. When wet, I had to drag it across my face. It’s only soft and pleasant feeling against my skin when dry. Thankfully, I only wasted $3.00.

I am giving the S&T Always Off Makeup Cloths 1.5 Freshly Cleaned Faces. The half point is only because I misunderstood what this product was. That’s my fault. If you want a pretty washcloth, perhaps this product is for you. Maybe I used it wrong, but I read the simple instructions and still, this “unique cloth” didn’t wipe away my makeup any better or faster or smoother or softer than a normal cotton washcloth.

Have you tried these makeup remover cloths? What is your preferred method to remove your makeup?

❤ Cherilyn 

Covergirl Peacock Flare Mascara

Not long ago, I picked up the Covergirl Peacock Flare Mascara in Extreme Black. I had just done a wear test and review of the Essence Volume Stylist 18hr mascara that did not go well.

Because I love mascara and am always searching for the next best thing, I decided to give this a try. And well, I love peacocks. ❤

The Peacock Flare mascara is available in five shades: Extreme Black, Intense Black, Jet Black, Black and Black Brown. There is also a Waterproof version.

Claims (Information taken from Ulta‘s website):

• Feather-fan brush catches, coats, and separates each lash
• High-build formula provides instant clump-free volume for lashes that are dark, lush and fanned out for a dramatic transformation
• Does not flake or smudge

The packaging is GORGEOUS. The cap has a rubber handle for a better grip, which is kind of genius. Not that dropping my mascara wand is a frequent problem, but the rubber grip makes the handle a bit easier to hold onto for application. The tube is a beautiful peacock metallic-ish green with a black chevron-style flare. It’s just beautiful and eye-catching.

The wand is interesting.

It’s almost an hour glass shape but it’s fat in the middle.

Now, here we get to the negative. I do not like the wand. It is far too flexible and when I wipe off any excess on the tube opening, it flings mascara everywhere. I prefer a slightly stiffer mascara wand that grabs my lashes, not bends with them. The wand also made it difficult to do my bottom lashes. I managed, and didn’t make too much of a mess, but it wasn’t easy.  On the subject of transfer or excess mascara on my skin, the product did wipe away easily with a dry cotton swab, as well as a damp cotton swab. Mascara that is easy to clean up is a huge bonus.

The formula is nice and there was enough product on the wand to coat both eyes, but not too much that there is an excess amount that needs to be cleared.  In the photos, my lashes look long and  are a nice dark black. Throughout the day I didn’t have much transfer. Ulta’s website claims this mascara does not flake or smudge. I don’t know if smudge also means transfer, but the mascara did not flake, and again, I had very little transfer. In the photos, I have two coats on my lashes.

Ulta has the Peacock Flare mascara for $8.99, however, I picked up mine at Walmart for $7.94.

Let’s get to the overall:

Pros: The formula is great. It does not flake and I had very little transfer. The mascara is available in quite a few shades, as well as a waterproof version. The packaging is gorgeous, and the price point is awesome at $7.94. After 8 hours of wear, the mascara still looked good and felt comfortable on my lashes.

Cons: The flexible wand kind of ruined it for me. I want a wand that will grab my lashes to coat them nicely. A flexible wand only bends with my lashes and makes it more difficult to get a good look, and can be messy if the wand pushes my lashes up to my eyelids.  I’ll keep this mascara in my daily drawer, but I won’t reach for it as often as I would if the wand were better.

I give the CoverGirl Peacock Flare mascara 3.5 out of 5 beautifully coated eyelashes for its price point and all that good stuff I wrote two paragraphs up. 🙂  Despite the flexible wand, it is a great mascara.

Have you tried the CoverGirl Peacock Flare Mascara? What are your thoughts? What is your holy grail mascara and why?

❤ Cherilyn

Essence Volume Stylist 18hr Mascara

I watch a lot of YouTube beauty and skin care product reviews. I always want to see how a product works on different people before investing my money, even with products that are easy on my budget.

My favorite reviewer to watch, and one I trust most is Tati. I have purchased more products based on her reviews than of anyone else.

My most recent Tati Approved purchase was the Essence Volume Stylist 18hr Mascara. This mascara is inexpensive at $4.99.

I have two because the first one I purchased seemed a bit dry.

I am always on the hunt for a great mascara. I love a good dark thick mascara because my eyelashes are light in color. My favorites have been Lash Paradise and Benefit’s Roller Lash. The Lash Paradise is nice, and gives my lashes a full volume look, but it’s a clumpy nice full volume look. Benefit’s Roller Lash has been a consistent favorite. It gives my lashes that natural yet voluminous look. I’ve never had an issue with clumping or drying out and I find myself always going back to the Roller Lash.

The packaging of the Essence mascara is lightweight. It does feel cheap with its big ol’ bulky plastic lid.  It reminds me of those fat markers I used as a kid. I also DID NOT LIKE that the packaging was NOT secured with plastic making it tamper-resistant. Anyone can open the tube and either apply to their lashes while in store, or touch it with their fingers. I reached for one waaaaaay in the back hoping no one had opened it.

Besides the huge hygiene issue, I like the wand. It did a great job coating my lashes. At first application, the mascara applied fairly nicely, it did come off a bit clumpy, but by the time I was done coating the one eye, there was a perfect amount of product left on the wand to coat my left lashes. The formula is nice and thick and is a deep black.

There was some odd separation on my lower lash. I took these photos about 30 minutes after application. You can kind of see a bit of transfer on the bottom lashes.

 

Overall, my lashes looked voluminous and long.  After about 30 minutes, I had transfer from my bottom lashes. Throughout the day the transfer was insane. I had raccoon eyes and was constantly wiping away the transfer from my eyelids and under eye. I gave this mascara another try the next day.  The mascara was clumpy out of the tube, so I just wiped off the excess and applied it to my lashes. Again, it looked beautiful on my lashes, but the transfer throughout the day was nuts!

What I like about the Essence Volume Stylist 18hr Mascara is the price point. I also like the way the mascara looks upon application.

What I do not like about the Essence Volume Stylist 18hr Mascara is the packaging not being secured with a tamper seal. I also don’t like the amount of product that comes out on the wand. I either have to wipe off the excess on the tube opening, which creates a big mess, or use a tissue to remove excess and that is a waste of product. I also do not like the transfer. I looked awful after an hour of wear time.

Products that work for others may not work for me, and it appears I am not a good candidate for this mascara. I’ve never experienced this level of transfer. Transfer happens when skin oils come in contact with makeup, but I have never noticed even the slightest bit of oil around my eyelids/undereye area. It’s OK, I’m not mad at it. I’ll still buy Tati Approved products! ❤ She approves them, not makes them. 🙂

I give the Essence Volume Stylist 18hr Mascara one pair of RABID racoon eyes for it’s price point at $4.99, which is great, but RABID raccoon eyes because of the packaging not having a tamper-resistant seal.

Have you tried this mascara? What was your experience?

❤ Cherilyn 

Revisiting the Beauty Blender

Over the past year since first purchasing, I have had some mixed feelings on my beauty blender. I liked it at first (read that review here) but then I quickly changed my mind. I didn’t like how it drank up my foundation and how it was just exhausting to use. It was blend, blend, blend, bounce, bounce, blend, bounce, blend, bounce, you get the picture.  To be honest, I didn’t like the work it took for foundation application and took to only using the beauty blender occasionally to apply powders and cream products. As I am not a regular user of powders and cream products, so away went the beauty blender.

I hadn’t touched it again until recently.

I am sure that I’m not alone in that my makeup application changes as I learn new techniques or see selfies and wonder what the heck I was thinking with a certain look! Previously I preferred a heavy hand with foundation, also known as being a full coverage queen. 🙂 I realized that my mature wrinkly skin looks better with a light hand, and a light foundation application just isn’t as beautiful with a brush as it is with a beauty blender. I have some pretty great foundation brushes, but in comparison with my beauty blender kind of fall flat.

Before we continue, please ignore how completely gross my beauty blender looks. 🙂

Over the past month I have fallen in love with my beauty blender! Even on the days that I was ill but had to go to work, I grabbed my beauty blender to apply my foundation. Yes, even while not feeling well, I dampened that beauty blender and went to town with the blend, blend, blend, bounce, bounce, blend, bounce, blend, bounce, you get the picture. I also have a Morphe beauty sponge that I use damp to apply my setting powder. My skin has looked GORGEOUS, and I am so impressed with both sponges that I don’t know if I’ll ever go back to using a brush for foundation application.

There are absolutely NO streaks on my skin with my beauty blender. My skin looks flawless and natural. Using a beauty blender is still exhausting, but again, the less product I use, the easier and quicker the blending. Don’t get me wrong here, my brushes aren’t crap. They have served me well for many years. I didn’t quite get that it takes work to make foundation look exceptional on my skin. I was positive I’d never try my beauty blender again, much less love it so much that I cleaned and then stored away my foundation brushes!

Do you use a beauty sponge to apply your foundation? What tips do you have for extending its life or even tips for use?

❤ Cherilyn 

tarte Limited-Edition Blush Bazaar Amazonian Clay Blush Palette

I have wanted this palette for so long; it was on my Christmas Wish List post, but at the time I just could not justify spending $44.00 on a palette I’d only have half a use for. But as it turns out, each shade is gorgeous on my fair skin; I just have to be light-handed with the darker shades.

Well, my wait paid off because just after Christmas, tarte had their 70% off sale and I was able to pick up this blush palette for $20.00!

The tarte Limited Edition Blush Bazaar palette is packed with eight deluxe Amazonian Clay blushes and two highlight shades in both warm and cool tones for every skin tone. The outside packaging is Moroccan inspired and is exquisite. The palette’s look and feel is high-end quality.

The shades are LIFE…

The blushes blend well, the highlight shades are beautiful, and incredibly long-lasting. I am not someone who likes to fuss with my makeup throughout the day. I adore makeup that even without the use of a setting spray, has longevity. I apply and re-apply lip gloss and lip balm more than enough throughout the day to keep me busy!

I am wearing highlight shade Worthy mixed with Whimsical underneath the blush shade Dainty. Please excuse the massive dry skin patch on my nose. Also, I am 45 and have mature skin freekin’ wrinkles.  I wanted so badly to edit them out, but I didn’t. Much. 😉 On a side note, my mascara is Benefit Roller Lash and my lip gloss is Rimmel London Stay Glossy in Dorchester Rose with a bit of Beauty Pageant Lip Ammo from Jeffree Star.

Overall, the tarte Limited Edition Blush Bazaar Amazonian Clay blush palette is incredible and well worth the $44.00. If you can find it, BUY it.  I am in love with this palette, and have used it every day. It has definitely made me a new fan of the Amazonian Clay blushes, that should I ever need another blush in the future, tarte, you got me FOR LIFE. ❤

I give this palette 5 out of 5 Pretty Blushed Faces. 🙂 ❤

Do you have any of the tarte Amazonian Clay blushes? What is your go to blush?

❤ Cherilyn

O’Keefes Lip Repair

I have a strange love affair for lip balms.

I’ve tried just about every one of ’em available from the most popular brands to lesser known brands. Ever since visiting Massachusetts in 2006, my lips have not been the same. I need to wear a lip balm every day, all day, and even slather it on before going to bed at night. I carry one in my pocket, I have three in my handbag, there are two in my Jeep, and I have one in every room of my home.

Recently, I had issues caused from a lip product I received in a beauty box. I received the Skyn Iceland Berry Lip Fix with Wintered Red Algae in my November ipsy bag. I used it several times daily for about a week before I noticed it was causing a horrible allergic reaction. My lips and areas around my mouth were red and incredibly irritated. My lips were a mess. It was painful and uncomfortable, and just looked horrible. I was embarrassed by the redness and wore extra makeup to cover it up. My usual Chicken Poop wasn’t helping, which was surprising because any lip issue I’ve ever had has been fixed by using my Chicken Poop. I tried Vaseline, which helped the dryness, but the redness wouldn’t go away.

Frustrated and feeling as if I was out of options, a friend recommended O’Keeffe’s Lip Repair Lip Balm. I went to Walgreens the next day and bought two of them.

I opened the lip balm and immediately applied it to my dry, irritated lips. No freekin’ lie, within 15 minutes my lips felt better than they had in MONTHS, even before the lip issue from the reaction to the red algea lip balm. I was amazed. The next day I went to Walmart where they had the balm for $1.00 cheaper, so I picked up two more.

THIS STUFF IS THE BEST. The website claims the lip balm “Creates a flexible barrier” and “Provides instant relief and all day moisture in 1 use”. These claims are absolutely true. I put it on in the morning and wear my lip gloss over it. As a bonus, it works as a barrier keeping my lip gloss out of the wrinkles around my lips.

My lips have not been dry, haven’t cracked or felt uncomfortable or red since using. I use it multiple times a day every day and will continue to use it every day.

Overall, I am incredibly impressed and thankful for this product! I give O’Keeffe’s Lip Repair Lip balm 5 outta 5 Soft Smooches!

Have you tried this product? What lip balms do you use?

❤ Cherilyn 

e.l.f. Cosmetics – Makeup Remover Balm & Hydrating Gel Melt Cleanser

In the mid-November e.l.f. Cosmetics 50% off sale haul, I picked up the Eye Makeup Remover Balm ($4.00/$2.00) and the Hydrating Gel Melt Cleanser ($10.00/$5.00). I have used these products for just over one month now and wanted to share my review of them both in one post.

Let’s start with the Eye makeup Remover Balm.

Holy moly, you guys, I am so darned impressed with this product! You get 0.06 oz (1.7 g) of product in a lipstick-style tube. This stuff, OMG this stuff removes my mascara gently and without leaving a greasy residue. Most nights I’d use Pond’s Cold Cream, and it always leaves a film on my eyes, no matter how much I rinse and wipe. I don’t like the constant tugging at my eyes to get rid of that pesky residue. The e.l.f. balm wipes away easily with a warm washcloth and there isn’t that ugly film left behind. I don’t have to roughly wipe away at my eyes either. I like the packaging for travel, though I would much prefer if it was a cream in a jar, but I’d really like if it was available with more product because I will go through these like crazy. With daily use, this product only lasted me two weeks.

I have also been using the Hydrating Gel Melt Cleanser for over a month. I am on my second jar.

I use this product in the evening to remove my makeup and cleanse my face. The jar has 1.41 oz (40 g) of product in a lovely green glass jar. The packaging is beautiful and looks like a high end product.  The cleanser has a petroleum jelly look and consistency so it’s a bit weird applying it to my face. You apply a thin layer of the product to your face with dry hands and once it is all over your face and neck, you activate it with warm water and massage into your skin for 10-15 seconds. I did not apply this to my eyes as I use the eye makeup remover balm to remove my eye makeup. Once I touch my face with wet fingertips, the gel turns into a light soapy cleanser. I thoroughly massaged my face and then rinsed with warm water. I have also used this with my Conair True Glow facial brush. My face is clean and free of any greasy residue.  My makeup is completely removed, and my skin is clean and soft. After cleansing, I use my Dickinson’s Enhanced Witch Hazel as a toner before applying moisturizer.

I read the reviews of the Hydrating Gel Melt Cleanser and some have stated that it’s purely a makeup remover and should be used as a cleanser before your actual face cleanser. Perhaps this is true for those who use heavy foundation, concealer, bronzer, blush, full glam eye makeup, etc. I use a light hand with foundation, I do not use concealer or bronzer, and I rarely wear eyeshadow, so perhaps for me, this cleanser cleans my face without having to use another product. After using, I apply witch hazel as a toner and there isn’t any remaining makeup on my cotton pad. Upon close inspection, my skin truly looks clean.

I am incredibly impressed with both products.  I have repurchased two more of the Hydrating Gel Melt Cleansers and one of the Eye Makeup Remover Balms on the Black Friday 50% off sale.

Overall, I give the Eye makeup Remover Balm products 3 out of 5 Freshly Washed Faces for its amazing performance and sleek packaging. I think $4.00 is a bit pricey for the amount of product you get, but I don’t mind paying $2.00 when it’s on sale. I will definitely be repurchasing this product. Should e.l.f. Cosmetics come out with a larger tube, I will give this 5 Freshly Washed Faces. 🙂

I give the Hydrating Gel Melt Cleanser 5 out of 5 Freshly Washed Faces for its affordable price, gorgeous packaging, and its amazing performance.  With daily use, I was able to get just over one month of use before cracking open another jar. I hope this is a product that e.l.f. Cosmetics keeps around for a long time.

Have you tried these products? What are your go-to makeup remover products?

❤ Cherilyn 

 

Beauty Boxes – 2017

As 2017 comes to a close, it’s time for a year-in-review of the ever popular beauty subscription boxes.

Subscription beauty boxes have been around for quite some time though I only jumped on the bandwagon last year. Beauty boxes are a great way to try many different cosmetic brands and products, as well as hair and skin care. I’ve been introduced to many brands I’d not know about if it weren’t for my subscriptions.

I’m going to break down the boxes I currently receive, as well as a few I no longer receive, and review each (All links open in a separate window):

Boxycharm ($21.00/mo.) –  This is my favorite monthly box, hands down. For $21.00/month, I receive 4-5 full sized beauty products from brands such as Smashbox, Tarte, Becca Cosmetics, Ofra, and Dr. Brandt, in a cute little black box.  Each box is always worth $100+! I’ve not had many disappointments with Boxycharm. Even when I received a broken palette, they sent me a replacement without a hassle. I received a palette in almost every box, and I have been able to use most of the products I’ve received. The lipstick shades have been mostly misses, but I’m not a huge lipstick wearer so it’s not that big of a deal. I just pass on whatever I know I won’t use. I won’t be getting rid of this subscription anytime soon, and I am excited to see what Boxycharm brings its subscribers in 2018. I give Boxycharm 5 out of 5 party hats!

If you want to check out Boxycharm for yourself, click my referral link here!  If you want to check out Boxycharm and subscribe without clicking the referral link, clicky clicky right here!

ipsy ($10.00/mo.) – I absolutely adore ipsy! For $10.00/mo., I receive 5 beauty products; mostly deluxe sample sizes, with the occasional full size product from brands such as Smashbox, TonyMoly, Pixi, Ofra, and Dirty Little Secret Cosmetics. Everything arrives in a cute zippered makeup bag.I don’t always receive products I can use, but I always receive a cute makeup bag that I can use or pass on as a gift. I don’t just receive cosmetics in my ipsy bags. ipsy sends skin care products, and the occasional hair product. As with Boxycharm, I like ipsy because I get to try brands and products that I don’t receive in other boxes. I look forward to receiving my bag each month.  I give ipsy 4 out of 5 party hats! 

If you’re interested in trying out the ipsy subscription service, click my referral link here. If you’d rather check out ipsy without my referral link, clicky clicky here!

MorpheMe ($19.99/mo.) – MorpheMe is a makeup brush service through Liveglam that offers $30 worth of Morphe brushes for $19.99/month!  The brushes come in a bubblewrap envelope with a cute little accordion card that has brief descriptions of each brush. I’ve been a subscriber for almost a year, and am fairly happy with this service. December brushes were a miss, though they were pretty. I can skip a month without being penalized or removed from the shipping list. I can also trade brushes for past brushes. I’ve done both; skipped a month and traded brushes for a past set. It didn’t throw off anything and I was happy I had those options. I don’t know if I’ll continue to keep this subscription through 2018. I’ll continue for a few months into the new year to see if they up their game. Overall, it’s not a bad subscription and it’s a great way to add to your brush collection. I give MorpheMe from Liveglam 4 out of 5 party hats!

If you’re interested in signing up, clicky clicky HERE (this link will get us both a free brush!), or clicky clicky HERE if you don’t want a free brush. 😉

Birchbox ($10.00/mo) – I was only subscribed to Birchbox for a few months, and I really liked the boxes, but I felt I was subscribed to too many services (WHAT?!) so I let this one go. I liked the products received, but I liked ipsy just a bit more, and I also like that for the same price, I get a cute makeup bag with ipsy. Birchbox isn’t a bad box, it’s all a matter of preference. I give Birchbox 3 out of 5 party hats!

Play! by Sephora ($10.00/mo) – For a few months, I was subscribed to Play! by Sephora, but the products were less than meh. I am allergic to anything with coconut oil/water, and currently with coconut oil/water products being all the rage, that was all I received in my monthly Play. There weren’t many products I was able to use. I was a bit disappointed. I give Play! by Sephora 2 out of 5 party hats. 

The choices of boxes are endless! These subscription boxes are not just limited to beauty products. There are food boxes, perfume boxes, PERIOD boxes and boxes for pets. A great resource for subscriptions is My Subscription Addiction. This website breaks it down better than any other!

What boxes do you subscribe to? Plan on adding any new subscriptions for 2018?

❤ Cherilyn 

e.l.f. Cosmetics

e.l.f. Cosmetics are probably my favorite. Most of my makeup collection is from e.l.f. because they are so affordable and most of the products are amazing. A bonus is that e.l.f. products are vegan and cruelty free.

I was introduced to e.l.f. back in 2007 when I was searching online for bridal party gifts. I ended up ordering spa sets from e.l.f. for my bridal party and they loved them! I can’t recall if e.l.f. sold makeup at the time. I do remember my first makeup purchase through e.l.f. was mascara. I didn’t wear much makeup at the time, but eventually I upgraded to foundation and blush, purchasing it through e.l.f. Cosmetics. I never looked back and have been a supporter since.

It’s nice for those of us who are amateurs in the beauty world to have options for affordable makeup that isn’t cheap in quality.  Back in the day to get affordable makeup was to get makeup that was of horrible quality and/or made with dangerous chemicals.  e.l.f. Cosmetics is also a wonderful option for even the most advanced makeup artist. The quality of most of the products is top notch, even sometimes exceeding those products from high end companies. It is wonderful to find cosmetics that are up to par with high end cosmetics.  As most drugstore makeup rises in price, beauty on a budget is still possible with e.l.f. Cosmetics.

I’ve had some misses with e.l.f. Cosmetics but I can’t get mad at a product that doesn’t work when I’ve only spent $3.00. Yes, $3.00 adds up, but I’ve not had many misses, and all makeup that are misses go to the young people in my life who need some of the misses to practice for the all the future hits.

I am sure that if you’re anywhere online reading beauty blogs or watching tutorials on YouTube, you are familiar with e.l.f. Cosmetics. What was your first purchase? What products are your hits? What products have been misses?

❤ Cherilyn 

Blogmas! (Day 11) Early Christmas Present With Bonus Review

I bought myself an early Christmas present and it arrived a few days ago. 🙂

I decided to upgrade my facial cleansing brush with the Ultimate Skin Spa Facial Cleansing System from Vanity Planet.  I really want the Clarisonic, but it is a bit out of my budget. The Vanity Planet website has their Facial Cleansing System listed at $125.00 but there are codes everywhere, even on the VP website for 70% off. I was able to purchase this one with shipping/tax for $44.00.

I have the Conair True Glow Battery-operated facial cleanser brush and it is an awesome cleansing brush for $15.00. The downside is that it only has one brush type available. Other than that, this brush is fantastic and worth it if you don’t much care to switch brushes. You can purchase it online, but I picked up mine at Walmart.

This brush from Vanity Planet comes in this pretty little purple case, is water resistant and requires 2 AA batteries (not included).  The brush has two speeds and comes with three different brushes:

• Daily Cleansing Brush
• Exfoliating Brush
• Silicone Brush

Upon removing it from the box, the case is decent and sturdy. The brush and its components fit nicely inside and it’s a lovely pastel shade of purple. My first impulse was to touch the bristles of each brush. I really like the silicone brush. The bristles are not too soft but not too hard so as not to cause damage to the skin. I am disappointed with the exfoliating brush. It is just as soft as the daily cleansing brush. I did put in a request with Vanity Planet for a replacement brush but I haven’t heard back yet. As it is the holidays I understand a delay in response.

My first time using the brush was with the silicone component to remove my makeup using the elf Cosmetics Hydrating Gel Melt Cleanser. This didn’t work too well. The elf cleanser isn’t the best to use with a brush. It is best massaged into your skin with wet fingers. After cleansing my face, I decided to use the silicone brush as an exfoliator with the elf Cosmetics Exfoliating Scrub. The cleansing brush has two speeds.  I used speed 2 to exfoliate my face. I actually really liked the silicone brush for exfoliating! I’m sure I’ll prefer the exfoliating brush replacement, but in the meantime, the silicone brush felt nice against my skin. It wasn’t harsh and my skin felt and looked good after.

Overall, I would not pay full price for the Vanity Planet Facial Cleansing System. Yes, it is nice, but I think I’d enjoy the Clarisonic much more. Had I not been impatient and swayed by such a discount, I could have saved to pick up a Clarisonic gift set. I will continue to use and enjoy the cleansing brush from Vanity Planet as it does do what it’s supposed to do without issue.

I give the Facial Cleansing System from Vanity Planet 3 out of 5 Freshly Cleaned Faces.

Do you ever treat yourself to an early Christmas present?

❤ Cherilyn 

 

elf Cosmetics – Studio Blush & Shimmering Lip Shade Shifter

I recently purchased the elf Cosmetics Studio Blush ($3.00/$1.50) in Candid Coral and the Shimmer Lip Shade Shifter ($5.00/$2.50) in Lighten Golden Glow during the mid-November elf Cosmetics 50% Off Sale. I was super excited to try the Shimmer lip. The swatches below show one in sunlight and one in normal lighting.

Shimmering Lip Shade Shifter

Shimmer on the left side of swatch.

Shimmer on the left side of swatch.

Shimmer on its own

Both products left me more than unimpressed. The blush doesn’t have much pigment and the shimmer lip balm is just glittery wax in a lip balm form.

The shimmer lip balm only makes your lips look wet, rather, glossy, but it’s not a shimmery glossy look. When I think of shimmer, I think of a glittery shine.  This just provides a wet look. It’s not that bad on its own; you can see in the photo of the shimmer on its own that it’s gold and glittery-ish, but for $5.00 it could be better. I have used it on its own because it has a golden tint. I do like that the shimmer lip didn’t irritate or dry out my lips. It actually felt nice on my lips but isn’t long lasting, which I didn’t expect it to be. I think $2.50 is still a bit too high for what it does.

Moving on…

The blush is a huge disappointment. I had to really dig my finger into this Candid Coral blush just to get any sort of pigment.

The only upside is that both products are inexpensive, and were even less expensive because I purchased them during elf’s 50% off sale. This is why I adore elf Cosmetics. While I would rather not waste any money on less than impressive makeup, it’s not such a heavy blow to my budget, and I can pass these misses on to the younger beauty lovers in my life for them to play with.

I give the Studio Blush in Candid Coral 1 Glitter Bomb simply because it is an affordable product that I’m sure someone would appreciate.

I give the Lip Shimmer 2 Glitter Bombs because I can still use it on its own, it isn’t drying, and I like the sleek packaging.

Have you tried these products? What lip shimmer do you use and recommend? What is your go-to blush?

❤ Cherilyn

elf Cosmetics Brush Cleaner Wipes

I purchased the elf Cosmetics Brush Cleaner Wipes ($3.00/$1.50) during the elf Cosmetics mid-November 50% Off Sale. I was hoping these wipes would be a great way to clean my brushes in between the major cleanings. I really like the Brush Shampoo and thought these wipes would be just as good.

 

Upon opening the package, the wipe had a strong scent. It smelled like the Brush Shampoo only stronger. I used it to clean one foundation brush. The wipe did somewhat clean my brush, but left an oily residue on my brush and on my hands.  I wouldn’t want to use the brush on my face unless the residue dries down.

 

I am a bit disappointed because it would have been nice to have an alternative to cleaning my brushes in between the deep cleanings. I am hoping elf will work on perfecting the formula because this is a product that has potential.

Overall, I will not be purchasing these again.

I give the Brush Cleanser Wipes 1 Greasy Wheel and that’s only because I like the packaging.

Have you tried these wipes? How do you clean your makeup brushes?

❤ Cherilyn

 

Gerard Cosmetics – Nikkia Joy Setting Spray

One of my favorite setting sprays is the Gerard Cosmetics Slay All Day setting spray, so of course, when Australian makeup artist and Youtuber, Nikkia Joy came out with her collaboration, I had to pick up a couple bottles. If you like watching makeup reviews and tutorials, give her a watch. She’s charming, has an Australian accent, and just has a very likable personality.

I received the spray a few weeks ago and was dying to try it out.  I have about 5 of the Slay All Day sprays and they’re almost empty. I love this setting spray but it does dry out my skin, so I use it in rotation with the Morphe Prep & Set.

The Nikkia Joy spray has a light rose scent that isn’t over-powerful. I smell it briefly on my face after application, but it’s light and eventually fades. The formula is the same as the standard Slay All Day sprays; it LOCKS your makeup down! If you have dry skin, it can be slightly drying because of the alcohol, but it works in keeping my makeup looking flawless all day!  It is also cruelty free and made here in the U.S.A. 🙂  Below is a slow-mo video of the sprayer:

At the time of my purchase, Nikkia Joy had a code to buy one get one free, so I received two bottles for $22.00.  As of 10/27, the JOYBOGO code still works! If you only wish to purchase one bottle, use the code JOY for 35% off!

What setting sprays are your ride or die?  Have you tried the Gerard Cosmetics Slay All Day? 

Favorite Brushes

Morphe. Now, there’s a brand that triggers a bunch of people on Youtube.

I use Morphe products.  I LOVE the setting spray. I love my brushes and I enjoy my Jaclyn Hill palette.  I don’t have any other Morphe makeup products other than the JH palette so I cannot attest to their quality.  I do have more Morphe brushes than any other, and I like them.

Before I joined the MorpheMe brush club in February of 2017, I purchased several brushes from Morphe online. The brushes had great reviews and were inexpensive. I wanted to do this post to share how my brushes have held up since purchasing almost a year ago.

I’ll post about my favorite 5 Morphe brushes below. All links will open in a separate window:

M510 Pro Round Blender – ($8.00) I purchased this brush and use daily in rotation with the R40 for highlight application.  I love the way this brush distributes the product onto my skin. This brush has goat hair bristles and has a long slender handle. There is some fraying and a bristle sheds from time to time, but I have had this brush for almost a year, I wash it quite often and it still works just as good as it did from day one.

 

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R40 Deluxe Pointed Blender – ($6.00) I received this brush in a MorpheMe box in April 2017. I use it daily in rotation with the M510 for highlight application.  Another goat hair bristle brush with a  long slender handle, I like the way the product is distributed onto my skin.  This brush also has light fraying with minimal shedding, is washed often and looks and performs well with daily use for six months.

 

E34 Tapered Blush – ($17.00) – I purchased this brush almost one year ago and use it daily for blush application.  It is washed frequently, and has no fraying, but had minimal shedding just after purchasing. I no longer experience shedding with this brush.  It has a thicker handle and feels comfortable in my hand.  The bristles are synthetic, are not rough, and feel soft against my skin. It picks up ample product and applies beautifully on my skin.

 

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E41 Round Deluxe Powder ($23.00) – I purchased this brush almost one year ago and I use it daily for powder application.  I wash it frequently, has no fraying and I haven’t experienced any shedding. I LOVE big fluffy powder brushes.  This has synthetic bristles and is so darned soft!

 

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M439 Deluxe Buffer ($14.00) –  I purchased this brush almost one year ago.  It is washed frequently, has no fraying and no shedding. I love this brush and use it in rotation with the G36 for foundation application.  It is a dense brush with a medium in length but stocky handle. It buffs out my foundation to a flawless finish.

 

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G36 Round Powder ($14.00) – I received this brush in my first MorpheMe subscription box in February of 2017. I started using it about 2-3 months ago for foundation application and it is tied with my M439 as a favorite for foundation.  This brush has synthetic bristles, is washed frequently and has no fraying or shedding.  It is soft and buffs out my foundation perfectly.

 

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The goat hair bristled brushes don’t hold up as well as the synthetic brushes, but even with their fraying and light shedding, are still just as soft and their performance still outstanding.

Morphe brushes are inexpensive, however, if you only want to purchase a few brushes, the shipping cost is a bit much unless you spend $75.00 (for those in the U.S.). Select Ulta’s will carry Morphe products in store and online, which will hopefully curve that shipping cost.

Overall, my Morphe brushes have held up for almost a year, with daily use and frequent cleanings with brush shampoo and isopropyl alcohol. For the price, I cannot complain at their fraying and shedding.   I will continue to use, purchase and recommend Morphe brushes for their low price point, quality and durability.

Do you use Morphe brushes? Share your Morphe brushes experience! 

 

 

re:p. Bio Fresh Mask

In keeping with the skin care theme from my last post, I thought I’d do a review on the re:p Bio Fresh Mask that I received in my September ipsy bag.

Thanks to Hurricane Irma, my skin currently hates me. I have a triangle of blemishes on my nose and a lovely spot on my right cheek. I don’t normally deal with breakouts unless I stray from my diet, and well, I strayed.  I strayed hard, y’all.  It was really difficult to stay on my diet when I didn’t have power. My first hot meal 4 days after the hurricane was Chick-fil-A. And I drank soda. YUCK.  After the storm when stores were open, soda was the coldest drink we could find because water was sold out everywhere, as was ice.

Ok, so my face was irritated and blotchy with redness and dryness. I washed my face with Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Cleanser and went to town applying this mask to my face.  It’s weird because the mask looks like it has orange pulp in it, but it’s crushed calendula and chamomile! Application was a breeze.  Some masks dry before you can cover your entire face.  This one went on with ease. It has a light fresh scent and feels really good on the skin. The instructions call to leave the mask on for 5-10 minutes.  I left it on for 10 minutes.

So while the mask is working its magic, let’s talk about the claims and what’s in it.

Claims:

Calm irritated skin and reduce redness and inflammation. Fresh herbs gently remove debris and dead skin cells while massaging into your skin. Kaolin, a gentle yet powerful mineral clay, draws out impurities for smoother, softer skin. Crushed calendula and chamomile, visible in the formula, reduce inflammation and aid in skin recovery.

Certified cruelty free, Formulated for sensitive skin. Free of mineral oil, sorbic acid, animal ingredients, surfactants, parabens, mineral oil and propylene glycol.

Ingredients:

A whole bunch of stuff no one can pronounce. Seriously.  The list is pretty damned long. Out of 38 ingredients there are only six I can say without spitting.

Final Thoughts:

This mask was calming to my irritated and stressed out skin. My face was free of redness, felt soft not only after my skin dried, but even the following day, and my skin looked refreshed and hydrated. The crushed calendula and chamomile provided gentle exfoliation, which is nice because I am careful when it comes to exfoliation. My skin is easily irritated and exfoliators can do more damage than good.

I give the RE:P Bio Fresh Mask 3.5 out of 5 clean smiley faces. 🙂

If I liked it so much, why only 3.5 clean smiley faces? The mask is nice and made my skin look and feel pretty good, but the price point is pretty high. When the tube I have runs out, I won’t purchase this at $41USD for 4.5oz.  I can get this same feeling with a less expensive mask.

Did you get this mask in your September ipsy?  Have you tried it and if so, what are your thoughts?  Is $41 too much to pay for a face mask?  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pixi Hydrating Milky Mist

This is the first Pixi product I’ve purchased and tried. I bought this for $15USD at Target after seeing it on Tati’s channel. The link will take you to her video and at 3:06, you’ll hear her thoughts on this product.

I have dry skin and am always looking for different ways to hydrate and moisturize. I was looking forward to trying this product and am impressed with the simple packaging and a sprayer that is AHHHHHH <3.

The mist is fine and has a light floral scent. It’s actually pleasant. Overly fragrant products give me migraines. Upon spraying for the first time, the mist was cooling and it dried pretty quickly on my skin. After drying, my skin didn’t feel sticky; it felt nicely moisturized. Makeup application was just as easy as if I had followed my usual moisturizing routine.

Claims:

• This featherlight mist provides an instant surge of hydration with hyaluronic acid to plump skin
• A blend of black oat, provitamin A, and linoleic acid makes this rejuvenator the perfect first layer of moisture before serums or makeup
• Suits all skin types
• Not tested on animals 🙂
• Paraben free

Ingredients:

A whole bunch of stuff no one can pronounce.

Final thoughts:

I’m giving the Pixi Hydrating Milky Mist 4 out of 5 bottles of moisturizer. 🙂 I love how light this mist feels on my skin. It is incredibly moisturizing without being greasy or sticky.  I will continue to use this daily before makeup application. The price point isn’t too bad and if I continue to like it, I will continue to buy it! I’ll update again in the future especially after trying the mist after makeup application.

Have you used this mist? What are your thoughts?  What is your go-to moisturizer?

 

 

 

 

Benefit Roller Lash Mascara – A Review

I know I have fallen in love with more than a couple of mascaras over the past year, but that’s what anyone who adores makeup does, right?

In July, I purchased the Benefit Roller Lash mascara for $24.00USD from Sephora. I have heard great reviews about this mascara so I decided to try it for myself. Disclaimer: I don’t know how to properly photograph my lashes without looking like a weirdo, so this is the photo y’all get.  🙂  Yes, I am THAT pale fair-complected.

I am super impressed with the Roller Lash mascara.  My lashes without mascara are very light and almost invisible.  Even if I go without makeup, if I leave the house, mascara is a definite must in order to avoid looking soulless.

With the Roller Lash mascara, I have increased volume and length on both top and bottom lashes.  The wand comes out of the tube with just enough product, and isn’t clumpy or flakey. I love how the Roller Lash wand coats my bottom lashes and I can apply the product to my bottom lashes without poking out my eyes. Other brands have fat clunky wands, and I almost always poke my eye. I’m not all that skilled in bottom lash application so I need a mascara wand that makes application a bit easier and a lot less dangerous.

Continuing on with the awesomeness of the Roller Lash mascara, excess mascara is easily wiped away with a cotton swab or makeup brush once dry. I always have excess mascara during application because I am a messy doofus in this department. Also, with a few other brands, I have mascara rub-off on my eyelids.  Not the case with this product.

The Roller Lash mascara looks and wears amazing throughout the day, and even after sweating at the gym for two hours. I’ve had this tube for almost two months, have used it daily, and it’s still going pretty strong.

Benefit Roller Lash Curling and Lifting mascara does come in a travel size for $12.00USD. This is still a bit pricey considering a full size L’Oréal Lash Paradise (a dupe for Too Faced Better Than Sex mascara) is around $9.99USD. I own both the L’Oréal and Too Faced mascaras, and like both, but prefer the Benefit Roller Lash to these.

I give the Benefit Roller Lash Curling and Lifting mascara 4.5 out of 5 mascara wands because even though this mascara is amazing and I will definitely repurchase, the price point is a bit high. However, I included the .5 because Benefit does offer a travel size of this product.

Have you tried the Benefit Roller Lash mascara?  What are your thoughts? What is your ride or die mascara?

❤ Cherilyn

 

Shills Purifying Peel-off Mask – Updated Review

My laptop is still down which is why I haven’t been posting. 😞 I am hoping to take it in next Thursday.

Let’s get on with the post!

I decided to try this pore mask again using a thinner coating, and it worked!

Applying just enough product worked in removing the dirt from my pores.  I was amazed at the dirt that came up on the mask! It really pulled out all the dirt and oil trapped under my skin. Of course it removed hairs, too.

I tried to get pictures but I couldn’t get my phone to focus. I didn’t record this attempt either because I didn’t think it’d be worth the effort. I honestly did not think this was going to work.

I put too thin of a layer on my forehead. Hopefully you can tell how much product was used.

Also, please note that removing the thinner coating hurt like a bitch.

If you use the mask and find it too painful to remove, a cotton ball soaked in witch hazel easily removes the product.
Use the witch hazel after removal as a toner, then moisturize.
I purchased this from Groupon for $7.00.
❤️

Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara – UPDATE

In March, I purchased a deluxe sample size of the Too Faced Better Than Sex mascara from Sephora. At the first use, I LOVED this product.  The mascara was unlike any other I’d ever used.  The wand is hourglass shaped and just enough product covered the wand to make for wonderful application.  My lashes looked UH-MAY-ZING. In fact, I was SO in LOVE that I wrote a blog post about it ——-> Read it here (link will open in a new window).

Not the best pics, but these are the pics I took after the first time using the mascara. I did not apply to my lower lashes because the wand is so bulky that I was afraid I’d poke out my eye.

The claims (Taken from Too Faced’s website):

What I love about the mascara:

My lashes had insane volume and looked longer. The product did not flake or look clumpy.  Each lash was coated perfectly.  Clean up was a cinch!  Excess mascara came off my skin so easily with the swipe of a brush or cotton swab. The mascara held up well during the day, again, with no flaking or transfer. I had never been so impressed with a mascara, so much so that I was going to spend $23 on a full sized tube.  Well, I didn’t have to purchase a full size because a friend saw my post on Facebook and bought me one.  I was elated! I used the travel size for a while longer and then finally cracked open the full size.

What I dislike about the mascara:

In 3 days, the tube was a clumpy mess.  Mascara bunched up on the wand and created a mess on my fingers and on my sink.  It was a mess to apply.  I was so disappointed! I called Sephora and they agreed to allow me to return it for a new one.

The photos don’t do the mess justice.  In fact, I had just wiped the tube just before I thought to take photos, so most of the mess was cleaned up.

I was hopeful that it was just a dud and that my new one wouldn’t behave badly. WRONG. The same happened with the replacement. I was not happy.  A $23 mascara should not do this! On April 3rd, I contacted Too Faced on Facebook on Facebook and messaged them with the photos. I still have not heard from them, and my message still shows as unread. *angry face*

 

Look, I know they’re busy, however, a large company such as Too Faced should have a department (and probably does) solely for social media and responding to messages. It’s discouraging.  I contacted e.l.f. cosmetics about a discontinued product and heard from them within 24 hours.  Jus’sayin’.

I really enjoyed the mascara and wanted to overlook these issues, though at $23, I just can’t let it go. It has such amazing potential. 

I do have to say that I didn’t have ANY issues with the travel size. The travel size actually had a narrow opening for catching excess product. I would gladly spend $12 on the travel size because it is THAT good. 

What are your thoughts on this mascara? What is your ride or die mascara? 

❤️

Shills Black Purifying Peel-Off Mask – A Review

I decided I’d try this popular (and painful to remove!) pore deep cleansing mask for myself. I picked it up on Groupon for about $7USD.

I also decided to film it.

This is my FIRST video of ME.  It’s a little sloppy, a bit low in volume, and with horrible bathroom lighting, but I did it.

Overall, I wasn’t impressed with this mask.  I didn’t see anything on the peeled off pieces.  The pain was minimal; it hurt more on the cheek area and around my nose.  It wasn’t too terrible.  If you’re waiting for your popcorn to pop, or your nails to dry, or you have to poop, give my video a watch.  It’s only 4 minutes.  🙂

I am going to work on doing more videos; if you’re so inclined, please subscribe to my YouTube channel.  🙂

If you watched the entire 4 minutes, Thank You.  ❤

e.l.f. cosmetics hydrating water sheet mask – A Review

I’m ducking because I know I’ve mentioned this sheet mask several times on my blog that one of you is prepared to throw something at me, but I swear I mention it so many times for good reasons!

Look, for $3 USD, you can’t get a better sheet mask. No, I don’t work for or with e.l.f. cosmetics (e.l.f. cosmetics, if yer reading this, I’m available!).  I just want to share this awesome product with youz guys! I purchase this mask from their website and I buy these suckers in bulk.  You can buy yours here.

Lemme tell you a true story… last night I decided to shave the peach fuzzies off my face. I swear I’m part animal because I’m a freekin’ hairy beast.  In case you’re wondering, I use eos shaving cream with the Touch N Brow razors from Sally Beauty. No, the peach fuzz does not grow back black, coarse and thicker.  I’ve been doing this for years and my peach fuzz is still peach and just as soft as it was the day I was born.  After removing my peach fuzz I used the e.l.f. sheet mask to hydrate my skin.  The cooling sensation from the wet mask felt amazing after I removed my face fur.

Ok, can we just take a moment to whoo hoo over how this sheet mask fits on my face? The mask comes out of the package super goopy with its miracle serum and clings to my face perfectly. I don’t have to continually smooth it out to keep it adhered to my face.  The part above my lip stays above my lip.  The eye holes are perfect.  The mask covers my entire face and stays on my face until I take it off.  JUST LOOK AT THAT FIT!  LOOK!

I kept the mask on for 30 minutes.  I have no idea how long the instructions call for (I just checked, it’s 10-15 minutes), but I did 30 minutes because I’m 44, have mature skin and need all the hydration I can get. After 30 minutes I removed the mask and massaged in the miracle serum left on my face, as well as used the remaining miracle serum in the package.  I just allowed it to absorb into my skin.  I didn’t rinse or apply moisturizer.

I have used all kinds of sheet masks but none compare.  I don’t know what’s in it, all I know is it works at hydrating my dry skin.  Oh, here’s what’s in it:

e.l.f. has most definitely stepped up its game with its skincare line, and there’s no shame in my game using these products vs. high end.  I’ve paid a lot more than $3 for sheet masks at Sephora and Ulta, and none measured up to this mask.  I continue to buy other masks because that’s what I do.  I buy other masks, try ’em out, then post the reviews here for you to either run out and buy them, or save your money.  🙂

I haven’t been able to find these sheet masks in store and I’m hoping that soon changes. I don’t mind ordering online, but when I order online I always end up buying a whole bunch of other products because I CAN’T HELP MYSELF.  I’ll be doing an e.l.f. haul post next week because clearly I have a problem.  😉

Do yourself a favor and buy a few of these sheet masks.  I say to buy a few because you’ll use one and then be mad that you didn’t order more.  TRUST ME.

Buy ’em ———-> here

Thank you for reading! ❤

Cargo Cosmetics Essential Lipgloss (Umbria) – A Review

I received the Cargo Cosmetics Essential Lipgloss in the color Umbria in my April Boxycharm (retails for $16).  It’s a beautiful sheer bronze shade lipgloss.

The packaging is pretty with the Cargo Cosmetics logo imprinted on the chrome lid.  The tube is plastic.  The doe foot applicator is incredibly cheap and easily bends making application almost a sloppy process.  This lipgloss came in a beauty box so I can get over that detail, however, if I had paid $16 for this, I’d not be happy.

The color is very sheer.  You can see the swatch on my arm shows a shimmery bronze, but when applied, it sheers out to almost clear in color.  It’s still very pretty when on my lips.  The lipgloss isn’t sticky, has a sweet smell, it might be vanilla, which is pleasant and not overpowering.  The product feels nice and moisturizing on my lips.

I like this lipgloss and will definitely continue to use it, but unless the applicator is different in a store bought gloss, I will not repurchase.

 

I am giving the Cargo Cosmetics Essentials Lipgloss in Umbria *** 3 asterisks out of 5 because the packaging is cool, the color and texture is pretty, and it wears nicely.

Do you own any of the Cargo Cosmetics Essentials Lipglosses?  What are your thoughts?

Thank you for reading! ❤

 

Dr. Jart+ Water Replenishment Sheet Mask – A Review

I am OBSESSED with sheet masks and regular masks and exfoliators and moisturizers. OH  MY!

I went to Sephora yesterday morning to exchange my Too Faced Better Than Sex mascara (OMG that’s a post I have to write), and I decided to browse the sheet masks.  I picked up seven of the nine shown, with the last one on the right one that I just used.

I have used several of the e.l.f. hydrating water sheet masks and I LOVE them.  For $3, it is AMAZING and I highly recommend it, even if you do not have dry skin. The others I have not yet tried.

Yesterday afternoon I used the Dr. Jart+ Water Replenishment Sheet Mask.  This mask is $7.50 at Sephora.  This mask does not contain parabens, sulfates or phthalates.  Here’s all the goodness it contains:

• Chamomile flower water to hydrate skin.
• Marine collagen which absorbs well, enhances moisture, improves skin texture, and provides anti-fine wrinkle effect.
• Witch hazel extract to improve corneum barrier function and prevent water evaporation, also provides a moisturizing effect.
• Cactus extract which contains 12 vitamins, provides an acne calming effect and moisturizing effect.

My thoughts:  The sheet mask was large, too large, especially above the lip, and the nose and chin area. The mask was saturated pretty well in the serum, but I had a difficult time keeping it on my face, and I had to constantly smooth it out onto my skin. The directions are to keep the mask on for 15-20 minutes, which I did, and then massage the remaining serum into the skin.  My skin LOVED the serum and my face looks incredibly refreshed and hydrated. I’ll probably buy this mask again just because my skin reacted well to the serum.  It is a bit pricey, but my skin did soak up the magic, and it didn’t make my face itch or break out in a rash, so it’s money well spent.

**** <—— I’m giving it 4 out of 5 asterisks just because the sheet mask was so large and clunky on my average sized face.

I’d prefer to just buy a tube or a jar of the serum and massage it into my skin, but I don’t think that’s an option.  Ahem, Dr. Jart+ (and you others), GET ON THAT.  🙂

I am curious to try the other masks but limit myself to one mask biweekly, unless my skin is a disaster and needs the help. I also have tubes of masks and exfoliators that I love.  I’ll have to share those another time.  Sheet masks seem to be the rage right now.

Do you have a favorite sheet mask?  What is your skin type and skin care routine?

Dr. Lip Bangs Lip Freak Buzzing Balm – A Review

This stuff is weird.

This came recommended by a friend because of my love of lip balms. Two weeks ago I headed over to Ulta to purchase.  It’s $4.95 USD. I picked up the flavor Sin-o-Mint. 🙂

I couldn’t wait to try it because of the buzzing feeling that was described to me and advertised on the packaging. I opened up my new balm, wiped off my Chicken Poop, and applied this new gem to my lips. It took a few seconds before the buzzing kicked in.  It is bizarre to say, but yes, it makes your lips feel like they’re buzzing!  It’s the craziest thing! Your lips don’t feel cool or soothing as if you used peppermint balm, like Burt’s Bees.  It really is a buzzing feeling!

Lip Freak is 100% natural, but is not vegan as it is made from humanely harvested white beeswax.

From the Lip Bang’s website: Lip Freak contains the following ingredients: Beeswax, Proprietary Essential Oil Blend Including; Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond Oil),Cinnamomum Zeylanicum (Cinnamon Oil), Natural Tocopherols (vitamin e), Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary Oil Extract), Stevia Rebadiana Leaf Extract, Natural Flavors. Some flavors may also contain Mentha Piperia (Terpene Free Peppermint) Oil.

The website claims what makes it buzz is “a super-secret, patent-pending blend of pure essential oils that, when combined together, create that unique buzzing sensation”.

I like it but I don’t know if I like it.  I’m not sure it’s a lip balm I can reapply throughout the day because I think the buzzing would soon grow to annoy me.  But, as something to use every now and again for a weird sensation, I’m into this, and at $4.95, it’s no big loss if I don’t use it all the time.

Have you tried this lip balm?  Do you find it as weird as I do? Do you have a favorite flavor?

 

TonyMoly I’m Real Avocado Mask – A Review

A friend of mine gave me this TonyMoly I’m Real Avocado sheet mask a few days ago and I decided tonight was the night to treat my face to some nutrition.  This mask can be purchased at Ulta for $3.75.

Upon opening the package, the goo smelled really good.  Oddly, it did not smell like avocado.

The mask was super saturated but to the point where it easily tore removing it from the package.  You can also see that the mask tore on my forehead from adjusting it to my face.

Do not be fooled by the unpleasant look on my face.  I’m happy, I really am.  🙂  The instructions say to leave the mask on for 20-30 minutes and then massage remaining goo into skin.  I decided to leave it on for 30 minutes.  I recently had an eczema breakout on my face thanks to an allergic reaction to coconut water/oil in a few products I had been using, so I haven’t really used any masks except for the e.l.f. water sheet mask, which is AMAZING for hydrating your skin.

Afterthoughts:  I like this mask and the way it smells and feels while on my skin.  The goo also dried pretty fast and my skin does look a bit healthier.  It’s always hard to tell if these masks really do anything.  It didn’t irritate my skin, which is a huge bonus, and it looks to have helped with the remaining bit of eczema that’s hanging around my face like an annoying ex-boyfriend.

For $3.75 USD, I’d buy this product.

Have you tried this mask, or any other masks by TonyMoly?  What are your thoughts?

 

The Original Beauty Blender – A Review

Finally! My beauty blender review!  I kept putting off posting this review because I wanted to continue using the beauty blender a few more times in hopes that I’d fall in love with it.  But, that just didn’t happen. *sad trombone* 

Here we go…

So, a month ago, I decided to splurge and purchase my first original beauty blender.  I’d used the Real Techniques beauty sponges prior, and wasn’t a big fan.  I mean, they were just OK. I decided it was time to try the REAL, the Original Beauty Blender.

I used the beauty blender the next morning and I liked it. I thought the application of my foundation looked nice and streak-free. I do feel as if it only provided medium coverage regardless of if I used a full coverage foundation. The beauty blender is a bit more bouncier, softer, and easier to squeeze out excess water than the Real Techniques sponge.  I was impressed with the difference, BUT…

I used it again the next day, and for the next several days.  I cannot lie, after each use, I found myself goin’ back with my Morphe brush to apply more foundation.  I just wasn’t feelin’ it.  It seemed like a lot more work to apply foundation. With my Morphe brush (or any of the other brushes I have for foundation application), application is effortless and my foundation looks flawless.  I never have to add more foundation.  I still continued to use the beauty blender, and even used it one day to apply cream blush and contour. I used it to apply powder, and used it dry to remove any product from under my eyes.

Overall, I do like the beauty blender, but I will not repurchase when this one falls apart.  I prefer to apply my foundation with a brush.  I also do not bake my face or use concealer under my eyes, so the beauty blender really doesn’t provide much of a purpose for me.  I really wanted to like it enough to use every day.  Now, I will say that I do find myself reaching for it should I accidentally get some product under my eyes, or accidentally go ham with the foundation.

The beauty blender is good product, it does as it promises, but it’s quite a lot of work for me, and just too pricey for my needs.

Chicken Poop Lip Junk – A Review

Yes, you read that right.  This review is about a lip balm called Chicken Poop. A disclaimer on the balm : Contains no poop.

I first bought Chicken Poop Lip Junk three years ago.  Ever since a visit to Massachusetts in 2006, my lips haven’t been the same. I am constantly needing to apply lip balms, lip gloss, anything to keep my lips moisturized. I have a bin full of balms and rotate through them depending on my mood.  Burt’s Bees has been a favorite for years as I love the cooling effect it provides, but it just doesn’t hydrate.  I still keep my Burt’s Bees on hand, but my go-to balm for the past couple months has been my Chicken Poop.

I found Chicken Poop by searching online for natural lip balms.  I am allergic to almost everything, so I have to be careful and read ingredients.  I have incredibly sensitive, and sometimes dry, skin (eczema survivor right here), and I’m allergic to almost everything soothing to the skin, including coconut oil.  RIGHT?!  How is that even possible?  I am also sensitive to 100% pure aloe.  Hi, my name is Cherilyn. I have weird toes and eczema and I’m allergic to aloe vera and coconut oil. *sigh*

So, I was searching online and came across the Chicken Poop website.  I decided to buy one. It has a light scent, almost smells like green tea.  It doesn’t have peppermint so there isn’t a cooling effect, but it’s super hydrating and feels really good on my lips.  I wear it all day when I’m not wearing lip gloss, and I never fail to smear it all over my lips before bed.  I had an annoying smidge of dry skin smack in the middle of my bottom lip that even with exfoliation, I could NOT get rid of. It was driving me insane.  I’d pick it off and it’d reappear.  I started using my Chicken Poop and I haven’t had the dry skin patch since.

One tube of Chicken Poop is $4.  They also have a Chicken Poop- Outdoors.  I bought two, but not a fan because it’s white like sunblock.  I may use it outdoors when kayaking, but I love my Baby Lips lip balm by Maybelline because it has SPF and is clear in color.

If you have dry lips, go to Chicken Poop’s website and find a retailer near you, or order a tube online.  It’s great lip balm, and a great conversation starter when someone notices your lip balm is Chicken Poop. 🙂

Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara – A Mini Review

Late last night I received my Sephora package containing my ABH Nicole Guerriero Glow Kit, and also in the box was a sample of the Too Faced Better Than Sex mascara in a pretty pink tube.

I used it this morning and OMG I am in love!  My eyelashes looked AMAZING. The wand grabbed each lash and perfectly separated and coated each one.  My lashes look long and just amazing! That wand is perfection.

I haven’t paid more than $6 for a mascara in years, but I am so damned impressed with this stuff that I’m going out tomorrow to buy a full size.

Do you use the Better Than Sex mascara? If not, what is your holy grail mascara?

 

Equate Beauty Cleansing Facial Wipes – A Review

I recently went on a 3 day primitive camping trip and purchased these so that I could cleanse my face.  I’d use one in the morning, sometimes one in the afternoon, and one in the evening.  I’ve used facial wipes before and they were not my favorite, but these are actually pretty good!

They were $3.48 for a package of 40 at Walmart.

While camping, I’d use a wipe to cleanse my face and then I used the Equate Beauty moisturizer (similar to the Cerave moisturizer) on my face.  The combination worked wonderfully on my sensitive skin.  At the time, I had a small eczema break out and these wipes (or the lotion) did not irritate my skin.

Since I have been home from camping, I thought I’d set the wipes aside and keep just for camping, but I have been using these wipes after work to remove my makeup and cleanse my face.  I pair the use of the wipe with the e.l.f. Revitalizing Mist, which I LOVE LOVE LOVE.

I probably go through one bottle a week!  Ok, so I just checked e.l.f.’s website and do not see the mist anymore!  OMG. This is upsetting!  I just sent them a message on Facebook. This cannot be happening!

Get a grip, Cherilyn!  Ok, let’s get back to the wipes.  They are pretty large in size, they’re nice and thick, really heavy duty which is good because the wipe won’t tear during use, and unlike most wipes, you can use the other side because your makeup hasn’t seeped through.  They work great at removing eye makeup, but be careful not to get the wipe in your eye as it will irritate. Just as you do with the micellar water, or any cleanser, hold it against your closed eye for a few seconds then wipe away your eye makeup.  The wipes are fragrance free and do not leave a residue on your skin.  The claim of for sensitive skin rings true, as I have sensitive skin and the wipes are not irritating at all.

As mentioned, I use the cleansing wipe, spray my face with the e.l.f. Revitalizing Mist, and if my skin is in need of extra hydration, once the mist has dried, I will apply the Equate Beauty moisturizer.  Before purchasing these wipes, I’d use micellar water to cleanse my face after a hard day’s work, but I actually prefer these wipes.  I’m sure I’ll rotate the use of both products.

These cleansing wipes are a definite must have in my vanity.

What product(s) or method(s) do you use to remove your makeup and cleanse your face?

Equate Beauty Moisturizing Lotion – A Review

Just before I went on my 3 day camping/wheeling trip (I had a BLAST, by the way), I picked up this moisturizing lotion at Walmart.

My skin has been severely dry the last few weeks and nothing has really been able to combat the dryness.  I occasionally switch out my moisturizers from Aveeno to Purpose to the e.l.f. Revitalizing Mist (which really isn’t a moisturizer), and I have heard a lot of great things about the brand Cerave. I went to Walmart with the intention of buying the Cerave moisturizing lotion, but it was out of stock, so I found the Walmart brand equivalent.  I have to be honest, I didn’t have high hopes that this product would work.

I was wrong.

When camping,  I do not wear makeup.  I bought some moist facial cleansing wipes and cleansed my face in the mornings and evenings, then moisturized with the Equate Beauty Moisturizing Lotion.  IMMEDIATELY, it melted into my skin and WOW. The results blew me away! The product wasn’t greasy or heavy, and it made my dry skin look and feel 100% better instantly.  I was so completely amazed. I reapplied it about 2-3 times because I loved the way it felt on my skin.  The lotion is gentle, doesn’t have a fragrance and didn’t irritate the fine skin around my eyes.  I even applied a bit on a small dry patch I had on my eyelid without any irritation.

The next morning, I did the same.  Cleansed my face with the cleansing wipe and then applied the moisturizer. The dry skin patches on my face were gone!  The redness, gone. My skin looked amazing.  I did this same routine through to Sunday.  Still impressed, skin still looking amazing,  dry skin and redness still gone.

I do have quite a few fine lines under my eyes, and I have a pretty deep wrinkle in between my eyes from a head injury.  Tomorrow will be one week since I started using the product, so it’s a bit too soon to say if it’s helped much in the wrinkle department.  It sort of looks like it has, but I don’t want to make any promises.  😉

Overall, I am incredibly impressed with the Equate Beauty Moisturizing Lotion.  It is a bit cheaper than the Cerave brand, and I gotta say, I probably will not even bother buying the name brand because I don’t think there is a need.  The Equate Beauty brand product sinks into the skin, and moisturizes without greasiness or heaviness.  I can apply it to my skin, wait a few and then go on with makeup application.  I really dislike moisturizers that take FOREVER to melt into the skin, and just sit on top of my skin like it’s waiting for a damned invitation to do its job.

If you have dry skin, I highly recommend giving this product a try.  I have never been so impressed with a moisturizer, and as someone who has suffered from eczema all my life, I’ve tried them all, from top of the line, prescription, to generic.  This product will definitely be a go to for quite a long while.

e.l.f. Revitalizing Mist – A Review

The e.l.f. Revitalizing Mist.  This product doesn’t get the attention it deserves.

e.l.f. sent this to me about 6 months ago and I didn’t start using it until a couple months ago.  I could kick myself for that!  

It can only be purchased on their website (http://www.elfcosmetics.com/p/mist) and it’s usually $6.00 but right now is on sale for $3.00. Just before Christmas, I ordered 8 of ’em.

After I wash my face in the shower, and before I apply makeup, I spritz my face 2-3 times with this mist. Most days I don’t use moisturizer in the morning because I don’t have time to let the moisturizer set into my skin before applying my makeup. I find that when I use this mist, I don’t need to moisturize, and it dries pretty quick. I LOVE IT.  My skin feels awake and fresh.  The website claims it can be sprayed over makeup, but I haven’t tried that.  The spray is incredibly refreshing, has a nice but not overpowering scent, and feels cool when it hits your face.  It’s been on sale for quite a while, I hope they’re not discontinuing it!

From the e.l.f. website:

This unique blend of Witch Hazel, Rosemary, Chamomile, Honeysuckle, Aloe and Vitamin B work together to balance and enhance the skin, leaving you looking energized and renewed. These nourishing key ingredients keep your complexion radiant, brighter and provides instant moisture to smooth and boost skin circulation for a firmer more youthful glow. The lightweight and invigorating mist leaves skin feeling revived and restored, perfect for the gym, office or after travel to rehydrate dry skin or to refresh makeup throughout the day.

All e.l.f. mineral makeup is 100% natural mineral-based with no parabens, no preservatives and no chemical dyes.

e.l.f. water mask & nourishing night cream- A Review

I am so impressed with the e.l.f. water mask and the e.l.f. nourishing night cream that I am sitting here at 9pm writing this blog post.

I wish I had taken photos of my skin.  Let me share the story.  Friday night, I decided to use a facial hair remover because I am a freekin’ hairy beast. I usually use a facial hair trimmer, but thought I’d try this product because I figured it would be easier and the packaging claimed it was great for sensitive skin.

WRONG.

I woke up Saturday morning to my face looking like a hot mess.  I had what looked like little burns and dry patches on the lower half of my face, and along my jawline. I had one patch of raw skin along my jawline that was so irritated it kept me awake all Saturday night.  My skin looked so bad that I sent my husband to the food store because I just didn’t want to be seen.  Normally, I don’t mind going out without makeup, but my skin looked horrible and I didn’t want that feeling of thinking everyone was staring at me, even though not one damned person would have paid me any attention.

Sunday night, I decided to use the e.l.f. water mask that I received in the mail a week or so before.  I was afraid to use any skin care products because I didn’t want to create any more damage.

I used the mask and immediately after placing it on my face I felt relief.  Especially on that raw area on my jawline.  The “serum” felt cooling and super hydrating.  I was pleased at how it was going.  Once the mask was off, the directions call for massaging the remaining “serum” into my skin and allowing it to dry before continuing with my regular skin care routine.  I did exactly that.  Once the “serum” dried, I moisturized using the e.l.f. nourishing night cream.  If you want a cream that’s hydrating, holy crap, the e.l.f. nourishing night cream is AWESOME.

I woke up Monday morning to my face looking 90% better!  I could not believe the results.  I was so happy that I could just dab on some green color correcting concealer and no one would be the wiser that just two days before I had this horrible skin irritation.

This morning, my skin was still a teensy blotchy, but I’d have said looked at about 95% better.  I got home tonight from work and washed off my makeup.  My skin looks like the hot mess never happened!

I am so damned impressed with the hydration I got from ONE mask and a couple night’s use of a moisturizer.

The e.l.f. water mask is $3.00.  I think it can only be found online (www.eyeslipsface.com), but I know the e.l.f. nourishing night cream can be found at Walmart for a little cheaper than on the e.l.f. website.

I more than highly recommend these products.  If you suffer from dry skin, these products are inexpensive enough to try it and if it doesn’t work, you haven’t wasted a ton of money.

What is your skin care routine?  Do you like the e.l.f. product line? Share your favorite products with me!

Setting Sprays- A Review

I have an obsession with setting sprays.

Click photos to enlarge:

My drawer of setting sprays

Urban Decay All Nighter

Gerard Cosmetics Slay All Day

Gerard Cosmetics Garden Party Slay All Day Minis

e.l.f. Matte Magic Mist & Set

e.l.f. Makeup Mist & Set (ALCOHOL FREE!!)

Maybelline Master Fix

It’s difficult to pick a favorite, but if I have to pick one, I choose the Urban Decay All Nighter.

And the Gerard Cosmetics Slay All Day setting spray.

OK, I CAN’T PICK JUST ONE.

Why use a setting spray?  I don’t have time, ok, I have plenty of time, but I am far too lazy to reapply/retouch my makeup in an 8 hour timeframe. I’m too busy constantly reapplying lipgloss or lip conditioning balm (another post for another time). Fortunately,  I don’t have to reapply/retouch when I use a setting spray.

I have to be careful with setting sprays because most contain alcohol and my face will get dry patches from the alcohol. 

The Urban Decay All Nighter spray is $31 for the full sized bottle (4oz).  The travel size (1oz) is $15. It’s expensive, but it really locks in my makeup and keeps my face looking matte.  It doesn’t have a harsh smell, or any smell at all, really.  The sprayer is AWESOME.  Some sprays have what seems like a power wash nozzle.  I’m trying to set my makeup, not remove my skin to the bone. With the Urban Decay All Nighter, my makeup is locked down, has a matte finish (dewy face doesn’t look good on 44 year old wrinkly skin), and my skin feels nice and firm.

The Gerard Cosmetics Slay All Day spray is a little more affordable at $22 for a full sized bottle (3.38oz), and the mini is $16 (1.01oz).  There are 7 fragrances to choose from.  I like the peach and the cucumber.  All of them smell delicious.  And the sprayers are amazing. You can always find a coupon promo code for 30% lingering around online somewhere (try their FB page), and around the holidays they offer 45% off!

The Slay All Day spray offers the same results as Urban Decay All Nighter- locking down my makeup all day, and leaving my face matte, feeling firm and polished.  Gerard Cosmetics is not available in stores, you can only purchase online.  Shipping is fast and when you get your package, it’s in a cute box, wrapped in pretty paper and littered with pretty confetti pieces.

Another spray I like is the e.l.f. Makeup Mist & Set.  It is $3 for 2.02oz of product.  THREE DOLLARS, ya’ll! Now, THAT’S affordable!  The sprayer isn’t the best, but I just save an empty bottle of Urban Decay All Nighter because I LIVE for that Urban Decay sprayer, and all is good. It doesn’t have a smell, that I’ve noticed.  I love this e.l.f setting spray because it’s alcohol-free.  I wish some of the others would get on board with the alcohol-free products.

I also reach for the e.l.f. Matte Magic Mist & Set.  At $4 for 2.02oz of product, this spray helps control any shine, and creates a nice matte finish.  The sprayer sucks, for lack of a better word. This is one of those that the spray comes out and hits your face like hail.

The Maybelline FaceStudio Master Fix setting spray is OK.  It’s about $11 at Walmart for 3.4oz of product.  It has a light scent, but it’s not overpowering.  The sprayer is pretty decent. This setting spray dries out my face though, so I tend to reach for the others before this one.  It does lock down my makeup, but it’s so drying.  If you can find a Gerard Cosmetics promo code, buy the Slay All Day for around the same price as this Maybelline.

I switch up my setting sprays because I have very sensitive skin, and alcohol is very drying.  I rotate between the sprays that have alcohol and the e.l.f. without alcohol.

I want to try the Mac Fix Plus, as well as the Makeup Forever, and Wet ‘n Wild sprays.

Do you use setting sprays?  Do you think they actually work to set makeup or are they all hype? Which are your go to sprays? Have you tried to DIY your own setting spray?

Setting Sprays

OMG I love setting sprays!

I am expecting a new package today!  Excited to get them and post a review! 🙂

NYX Color Correcting Concealer Palette – A Review

I love the NYX Color Correcting Concealer palette.  The NYX palette colors are creamy, they blend out with ease, and work well at concealing what they are supposed to conceal. I normally use the e.l.f Flawless Finish foundation, which is a medium coverage foundation, and the color correcting concealers blend very well.  

I’ve been using color correcting concealers for a long time, and this palette is my favorite. I picked it up at Target for $12.00. There are cheaper palettes out there that do the same darned thing, but I’m a little picky with the brands I allow to go under my eyes, so I styx with nyx. See what I did there?

I do have the It Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye, but that does NOT work for me. It’s wet and thick and creases and looks like poo poo. Also, it’s mega expensive. Another also, I have wrinkles under my eyes and CANNOT set my concealer with powder.  I was told that Bye Bye Undereye does not need to be set with a powder and that is a Bye Bye Undereye LIE. It’s very tacky feeling on my skin. If it works for you, yay.

The color correcting colors I use the most are the green, peachy/pinky/salmony, and yellow colors.

The green covers any redness. I use this on zits and the lame red dry skin patches scattered across my face.

I use a little of the peachy/pinky/salmony to combat the blue/purple bags under my eyes.

The yellow works to hide the shadow of my undereye bags. I just lightly trace a line along the bags under my eyes.

Once my face looks like a rainbow, I blend in all the concealer colors with my foundation, and apply the rest of my makeup.

If you wear makeup, you should own a color correcting palette, unless you have flawless skin, and if you do, you suck.

Soap and Glory Hand Food and The Righteous Butter – A Review

Soap and Glory Hand Food (and The Righteous Butter)

            

I have been using these for over a month now and I love them.

I bought a travel size Hand Food from Ulta and loved it so much after a few uses that I went back and bought two regular sized tubes.  I also just recently bought the The Righteous Butter.  If you suffer from dry skin like I do, even eczema, this stuff is AMAZING.  And it smells so good!

I wash my hands a zillion times a day and I need a lotion that can keep my hands moisturized like I don’t wash them a zillion times a day.  Hand Food does exactly that.

From the Ulta website:  A non-greasy hand cream with shea butter, macadamia oil, and marshmallow. Scented with our Original Pink Rose & Bergamot fragrance, combining fresh bergamot, mandarin, rose, jasmine, peach, strawberry, and soft musk & amber base notes for skin that is blissfully clean and silky-soft.

Moving on to The Righteous Butter.  This stuff is also TO DIE FOR.  I use this daily all over my body after my shower.  My skin is so darned soft and it leaves my skin smelling yummy.  I can stick my head down my shirt right now and I can still smell it on my skin from applying it almost 12 hours ago. The Righteous Butter makes my legs so soft.  I can apply it in the morning, and until I shower the next day, my legs are soft and smooth.  With other lotions, I have to constantly reapply to keep my legs from looking flaky.

GET IT.

You can find it online, and at Ulta, select Walgreens, and Targets.  It’s a bit pricey for lotion; Hand Food is $8 for a full sized tube (the travel size is $4) and the The Righteous Butter is $15 (travel size is also $4), but those medicated lotions and other body lotions that promise soft skin at half the price are crap.

Invest in your skin, yo.

Use these products? Tell me what you think!