Beauty Scenario Tag

I first came across this tag on lifewithlilred‘s blog (read her Beauty Scenario Tag post here and follow her while yer there!).

Here we go!

You have to get rid of all your foundations and you can only keep one high end and one drugstore, which do you keep?

I would keep Too Faced’s Born This Way and e.l.f. Cosmetics Flawless Foundation.

You go for an interview and the lady interviewing you has lipstick on her teeth. Do you approach the subject or ignore it completely?

Telling her depends on the vibe. If I feel we’re jiving and her personality and mine aren’t clashing, I’d feel comfortable enough to tell her. I’d want to know, and honestly, telling her may earn points and possibly a job!

You’re not feeling yourself and need a pick me up. Which lipstick do you put on to make yourself feel beautiful?

I don’t wear lipstick, but I’d put on Buxom Full-On Lip Polish in Celeste because it’s pretty and glittery and glitter makes me happy. 🙂

You go back in time for a day to your teenage years, how would you do your hair and makeup differently?

I didn’t wear makeup as a teenager, but I would go back and slather on sunscreen like a crazy person. As for my hair, I wore it long and natural and wouldn’t change a thing about that!

You ask your hairdresser for a shoulder length Pixie Lott hair cut, but they hear wrong and give you a pixie cut.

Do you:

A) Smile, say thank you, leave and call your mom hysterical.

B) Cry in the chair and things get awkward.

C) Complain to the manager and demand a refund.

First, let me say that I had to google Pixie Lott because I had no clue who she is, and I still don’t. 🙂 As for an answer to the question, none of the above choices would be what I would do. While a bad haircut sucks, it is hair and it will grow back. I would most definitely let the hairdresser know in a kind way that I am unhappy with the cut, but I would make the most of it with product, hair color, whatever I could to make the best of it until it grew back. My motto in life is to pick my battles wisely. A bad haircut isn’t a battle to lose sleep over. I’d pay for the haircut, and even tip the hairdresser. Mistakes happen. I don’t think any hairdresser intentionally messes up a client’s hair.

Your friend surprises you with a 4 day city break and you have 1 hour to pack. Which ‘do it all’ palette do you pack in your makeup bag?

I’d choose the e.l.f. Cosmetics Mad for Matte Nude Mood palette.

Your house has been robbed, don’t worry everyone is safe, but your beauty stash has been raided. What’s the product you really hope is safe?

I’d be upset if my Jaclyn Hill palette and any of my Jeffree Star palettes were missing, or destroyed. They weren’t cheap. 😉

Your friend borrows your makeup and returns it in awful condition.

Do you:

A) Just pretend you haven’t noticed.

B) Ask them to repurchase it.

C) Secretly do the same to something of theirs.

My friends don’t borrow my makeup. However, if a friend expresses interest in a product I use, I’d either give them one from my backup stash or buy them their own as a little Thank You For Being My Friend gift. Borrowing makeup is weird.

How would you answer these questions? Do the Beauty Scenario tag and don’t forget to tag me so that I can read your answers!

Thank you for reading!

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Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty – March/April 2018

I’m a bit behind in posting about one of the best sales of the year, but I know all y’all are on top of it!

Ulta is having Beauty’s Biggest Event from March 18 through to April 7th! There are different deals each day with Hot Buys available every day of event. I wasn’t all that impressed with the offerings this go round.
I did end up ordering a couple Benefit Roller Lash mascaras (my holy grail mascara!) for $12.00 each (normally $24.00 each). In order to get my free shipping, I also purchased filler items, such as as my beloved Soap & Glory The Righteous Butter body butter. It is currently buy 1 get 1 at 50% off. ❤

On April 7th, I’ll order the Mac Prep + Prime Fix+ Setting spray. 🙂 I LOVE this setting spray!

I order my products online to ensure that I get them. I dislike going to the store to find they are out of the products I want. 😦

What are you getting in the 21 Days of Beauty sale?

Thank you for reading!

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 

Why I Wear Makeup

If you would have told me 5 years ago that today I’d have a 4-drawer dresser (and a closet) full of makeup, and that I would be a beauty blogger, I’d have laughed in your face. Like, full on UGLY laugh, tears streaming down my face, and maybe even pee a little. HEY, I’M 45. IT HAPPENS.

I am asked all the time why I wear makeup. It’s simple, really.

I wear makeup because I enjoy it.

I know I am just as beautiful without makeup as I am with makeup.

I wear makeup because it makes me happy.

I wear makeup to enhance my beauty.

I wear makeup because it’s challenging.

I wear makeup because it’s fun.

I wear makeup because I truly enjoy the products, as well as the process of applying the products.

I wear makeup because I love the smells (sometimes!) and the packaging.

I wear makeup because it’s just another way of self-expression.

I wear makeup because I can.

No matter the reason, no matter the people who say “you wear too much makeup” or “makeup is such a waste of money” or “Well, I don’t have time to do all that”… never feel guilty or feel that you need to explain yourself for doing what you enjoy.  Don’t allow the insecurities of others steal away your joy. Not only where makeup is concerned, but in all aspects of life.

What do you love about makeup?

❤ Cherilyn 

My Beauty Space ‘n Stuff

I thought I’d show y’all where I keep my daily beauty products, as well as show you my stash. It’s always interesting to see how organized people are, as well as seeing all the cool products they have that I don’t have that I might want to have, too. 😉

Here is my little 4 drawer dresser right outside my master bathroom. I keep my brushes, beauty sponges, currently used lipglosses up top, and my moisturizers, cleansers/toners and cotton balls/pads in that wicker basket.

The top left of the drawer has my foundations, primers and concealers. The right has my setting sprays and powders.

The left side of the second drawer has my highlighters.  My mascaras and brow gels are in the middle, and my bronzers and blushes on the right. The third drawer houses all my eye shadow palettes, liquid shadows and singles.

 

I keep my dry brushes on hooks located on the side closest to my master bath.

I love my little space. I love that it’s right outside my bathroom keeping everything I use within reach.

Now we move to my overflow area. 🙂 This is a closet in my hallway where I keep new product, backup product, my masks, moisturizers/exfoliators and shaving stuff.

I adore sheet masks and have an abundance of them. There are about 10 e.l.f. Cosmetics Water Sheet masks in there. 🙂 Also, my love for Soap & Glory The Righteous Butter is real and it’s deep. I stock up when Ulta has their buy 1 get 1 at 50% off. I go through a tub every month and the smaller ones I keep in my handbag. I go through the smaller ones every 2-3 weeks.

The below photo shows where I store my backup products, lip balms, etc. The larger drawers hold my backups of mascaras, brow products, falsies, powders, setting sprays, and my perfumes. I don’t wear perfume much anymore so I just buy the minis.  The smaller storage drawers hold all my lip glosses, liquid lips, lip balms, lip exfoliators and lip pencils.

I try to keep my beauty products as organized as possible so I can easily see what I need to restock up on, as well as not drive my husband bonkers with makeup everywhere!

Your turn! Show me your beauty space ‘n stuff!

❤ 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

The Beauty Tag – 30 Questions

I love doing these types of posts! I was browsing the beauty tag and came across these 30 fun questions!

Please feel free to copy, just make sure to tag me so I can read your answers! 🙂

1. Do you remember your first makeup item?

I think it was probably a lipstick or lip gloss and I was in junior high school. I didn’t really get into makeup until my early 20’s.

2. Describe your perfect mascara. Have you found one that fits your specifications?

OooOooh good question! My perfect mascara is a blackest black formula, has a great wand that is skinny and a bit stiff. I have tried, and continue to try, different mascaras, however, one that has captured my heart is Benefit Roller Lash.  This mascara fits all my specifications so much so that I can stop my search, but then I just wouldn’t be a proper beauty blogger if I did that! 🙂

3. What kind of coverage do you prefer from foundation?

I prefer light to medium coverage. I don’t mind if my imperfections peek through as I prefer a more natural look. I’m no spring chicken and at 45 years old, less is definitely more!

4. Favorite high end brand?

That’s a really tough question. I don’t know if this brand falls under high end, but it’s expensive enough to, so I would have to say Dr. Brandt. I don’t purchase many high end products. I don’t consider Tarte, Urban Decay, Smashbox, etc., as high end.

5. What cosmetic brands have you always wanted to try but still haven’t?

I really want to try Dior Foundation and Marc Jacobs bronzer.

6. Favorite drugstore brand?

Hands down, e.l.f. Cosmetics. All day, err’day. <—– Sorry about that word.

7. Do you wear fake eyelashes?

No. I own quite a few pairs of them, but I’m kind of a doofus when it comes to coordination, so I just dream about being able to wear them and be envious of those who have skillz.

8. Is there any kind of makeup you can’t leave the house without?

Mascara and lip balm. All day, err’day. <—– Sorry about that word. Again.

9. What is your most cherished beauty product?

I love my Jeffree Star eye shadow palettes. They are just so sleek and sexy and glamorous. No, it’s not completely weird to use the word sexy to describe an eye shadow palette. Yes, it’s totally weird.

10. How often do you shop for makeup? Do you like to pick up an item here and there or get lots of goodies at once?

At least once a week. If I don’t run out to shop, I’ll shop online. Typically I pick up a few items here and there unless there’s a good sale goin’ on. I go ham when there are sales.

11. Do you have a “beauty budget” or do you spend freely? 

I try to keep to a minimum between $50.00-$100.00 monthly. There are weeks that I don’t buy anything, though.

12. Do you utilize coupons, rewards cards and sales when you shop for cosmetics?

Definitely! I use Ebates, as well as take advantage of reward points at Ulta and Sephora. I also go ham when e.l.f. Cosmetics has their 50% off sales, as well as Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty sale.

13. What type of product do you buy the most of?

For makeup it’s a tie between mascara and highlighter. Skincare would be sheet masks.

14. Is there a brand that you absolutely can’t stand?

No.

15. Do you avoid certain ingredients in cosmetics like parabens or sulfates?

Obviously ingredients I am allergic to, like coconut oil/water. I probably should be more mindful, but most products nowadays are jumping on board with better ingredients.

16. Do you have a favorite place to shop for makeup?

It’s a tie between Ulta and Sephora. I like both for different reasons. Ulta feels drugstore to me but I prefer to shop there on days that I’m feeling anxiety and can’t handle the semi-upscale’dness of Sephora.

17. Do you like trying new skincare products or do you keep a certain routine?

I do tend to stick with a routine, but will occasionally try new products. I am mindful of ingredients with skin care because I am allergic to coconut oil/water.

18. Favorite bath and body brand?

I am in love with Soap & Glory. ❤

19. If you could only buy from one brand, which brand would you choose?

Again, hands down, e.l.f. Cosmetics. All day, err’day. <—– I’m sorry, I can’t help myself.

20. What brand do you think has the best packaging?

Tarte definitely has pretty packaging, Kat Von D also slays, and Jeffree Star, well, have you seen the Blood Sugar palette? ❤

21. Which celebrity always has great makeup?

I am going to say Gwen Stefani. She just always looks so well put together with her classic red lip and pin-up style hair.

22. Do you belong to any online makeup communities?

No.

23. Favorite Beauty Gurus

I love Tati, NikkieTutorials, Jaclyn Hill, and Jeffree Star. I also like thataylaa, JessicaBraun, KathleenLights and Andrea Matillano.

24. Do you like multi-functional products like lip and cheek stains?

I don’t have any so I can’t really say if I like them.

25. Are you clumsy in putting on makeup?

No, not really. I only use what I am confident with which makes me less clumsy. Throw in bronzer, contour and eye liner and then YES, I am clumsy! 🙂

26. Do you use makeup base/primer for the eyes?

I use foundation. If I am going to wear eye shadow, I’ll use an eye primer, but I don’t wear eye shadow on a regular basis.

27. How many hair products do you use on a typical day?

Well, aside from shampoo and conditioner, none! Occasionally I will use Loma Repair serum but I don’t use it daily.

28. What do you apply first, concealer or foundation?

If I have red spots to cover, I’ll use color correcting concealer first. If I don’t need color correcting, then I go right to foundation and skip concealer altogether. 🙂 Remember, less is more. I think that applies to skin at any age.

29. Do you ever consider taking makeup classes?

I thought about it seriously about 6 months ago, but it’s just a passing dream. I learn a lot from YouTube videos and from just playing around in my bathroom!

30. What do you love about makeup?

I love that there are no rules in makeup. Makeup allows a different level of creativity, a different level of expression to flow, and can be suited to each individual’s style.

Your turn! Don’t forget to tag me! ❤

❤ Cherilyn 

Boxycharm – February 2018

It’s the month of love and I LOVE my beauty boxes!

I just received my February Boxycharm! If you’ve not heard of this box, Boxycharm is a monthly beauty subscription service. For $21/month, you receive 4-5 full sized beauty products in a cute little black box.  Each box is always worth $100+!

This month’s Boxy theme is Galaxy Glow! I was pretty excited when I saw the spoilers for this month’s box. Let’s get to the goodies!

• Cover FX Shimmer Veil in Amethyst ($28.00)
• Ofra Cosmetics Pop-Up Palette Mini ($19.00)
• Ofra Cosmetics Blush Godet Refill in Winter Rose Glow ($12.00)
• Crown Brush brush trio ($29.99 on sale right now for $20.99)
• PUR Cosmetics X-Faux Lips Plumping Lip Exfoliator ($17.00)
• Vintage Cosmetics Smokey Eye Pencil in Jet Black ($21.00)

Box Total: $126.99!

I was hoping for the Naked Cosmetics Holographic Highlighter Palette, but I’m not mad at the Ofra palette and blush. The Cover FX Shimmer Veil is beautiful! The brushes are very soft and I’ll probably try the medium brush for highlight application. I won’t use the black eye pencil so I’ll pass that on, and I am curious to try the lip exfoliator!

Overall, I am pleased with this month’s Boxycharm. I’ve not been let down since subscribing almost one year ago.

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!

What’d you get in your Boxycharm?

❤ Cherilyn 

ipsy January – 2018

It’s the first ipsy bag of 2018!

If you’re not familiar,  ipsy is a beauty subscription service for $10/month.  You receive 5 beauty products; some deluxe sample sizes, with the occasional full size product. Everything arrives in a cute zippered makeup bag.

January’s theme is Game Face. Have Your Strongest Year Yet—Set Goals, Crush Them, and Look Fierce Doing It.

The bag. Hmm. It’s definitely sporty looking, but I don’t think of sporty when I think of makeup. I don’t think of makeup when I think about sporty. It’s a mesh bag with the ipsy logo imprinted on a bright yellow tag located on the side of the bag, and a shoestring-ish zipper pull. The inner of the bag is a bright yellow. I get where ipsy is going with it, though. Set goals, crush them, and look fierce doing it.

Let’s get to the goodies! (All links will open in a separate window):

SERAPHINE BOTANICALS Raisin + Cream Long-Lasting Lip Stain ($24.00) Not really my color, though it is pretty. I’m not sure if I’ll use this.

CIATÉ LONDON Fierce Flicks Liquid Eyeliner ($19.00) I do not use eyeliner so I’ll be passing this on to a friend.

LUNA BY LUNA COSMETICS Eyeshadow in Juliet ($15.00) This is a pretty color. I’ll probably pass this on to a friend, though.

BEFINE SKIN CARE Exfoliating Cleanser ($24.00) I love getting exfoliating cleansers in my beauty boxes. I am looking forward to using this!

BIOREPUBLIC SKINCARE Sheet Mask Duo: Aloe Rescue & Pomegranate Crush ($4.99 ea.) I love getting sheet masks in my beauty boxes! These ones look promising.

I must admit I am less than impressed with the very first ipsy bag of 2018. It’s just meh for me, but not meh enough to cancel. I’ve had ipsy for almost a year and I’ve been happy with most of the bags. For $10/mo. I can’t really complain.

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!

What do you think of this month’s ipsy bag and goodies? What’d ya get?

❤ Cherilyn 

Boxycharm January – 2018

My January Boxycharm is here! This is my first Boxycharm unboxing of 2018!

If you’ve not heard of this box, Boxycharm is a monthly beauty subscription service. For $21/month, you receive 4-5 full sized beauty products in a cute little black box.  Each box is always worth $100+!

January’s theme is Rock 2018.

Let’s get to it! (All links will open in a separate window):

Crown Brush Glam Metals Palette  ($29.99) I haven’t had an opportunity to play with this palette as I came down with the flu just after receiving my Boxy. The colors are pretty, soft and plenty pigmented, though!

Dr. Brandt Luminizer Primer ($38.00) I have been using this primer every day since I got my Boxy and I love it! I have never used a primer that makes my skin look so radiant and makes my foundation apply to my skin beautifully. It is expensive and I’m not sure if I’ll repurchase. I may see if I can find a dupe.

PUR Bronze & Brighten Palette ($34.00) I have used the highlight shade daily. It gives my skin this beautiful golden glow. I haven’t used the blush or the bronzer yet, and am not sure I will. They’re both a bit too shimmery. The highlight is very pretty though, and will continue to use this in rotation with my tarte Amazonian Clay highlighting and blush palette.

girlactik Matte Lip Paint in Posh ($23.00) This is my first girlactik product. Posh looks like a really pretty color on the website, but it’s a rusty terracotta brown/orange/red color on my lips. I don’t like it and probably will not use it. It smells nice, dries down and feels good on my lips, but it’s just a shade that I can’t pull off too well.

it Cosmetics Brow Power Universal Eyebrow Pencil ($24.00) I am not a fan of eyebrow pencils. I think this is mainly because I don’t know how to use them! I prefer to use The Brow Gal powder and the e.l.f. Cosmetics brow gel. I’ll gift this to a friend.

Total Boxycharm worth: $148.99! Wow!

Overall, I am pleased with the first Boxycharm box of 2018. Regardless of the few items I won’t be using, the Dr. Brandt primer is wonderful, as is the PUR palette. Both products are worth more than what I pay monthly for my subscription.

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!

❤ 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

Top 10!

Not long ago I did a review of e.l.f. Cosmetics as a brand. e.l.f. Cosmetics are affordable products that are also vegan and cruelty free. You can read my review of e.l.f. Cosmetics as a brand here.

For this post, I decided to share my Ride or Die e.l.f. Cosmetics products ranging from makeup to skin care.

Let’s get on with the goodies! (All links will open in a separate window):

• Flawless Finish Foundation (Natural) – $6.00 This foundation is my ride or die. I’ve been using this foundation for maybe eight years, if not longer. I’ve tried other foundations but I always go back to this one. The foundation is oil-free with a semi-matte finish, has SPF 15, and feels light on my skin. I don’t like to wear a lot of makeup and I love the no makeup makeup finish this provides while keeping my look light and balancing out my redness.
• Hydrating Gel Melt Cleanser – $10.00 I recently discovered this product and it is amazing! I use this every evening to remove my makeup. It is awesome at removing my makeup and cleansing my face. With daily use, one jar lasted me just over a month.
• Baked Highlighter (Moonlight Pearls) – $4.00 First, to my Nicole Guerriero Glow Kit, this is my affordable makeup ride or die highlighter. I use this more than any other highlighter in my collection. Depending on my mood, I sometimes mix this with the Shimmer Highlighting Powders mentioned below.
• Shimmer Highlighting Powder (Rose Glow/Starlight Glow/Pearl Glow) – $6.00 I LOVE these highlighting powders. Each shade look gorgeous on my skin. They can be a bit messy, but I love the wet shine I get, and I am often complimented on my glowing skin when I wear this in any shade. I have a difficult time choosing between the baked highlighter and these so to be fair to them, I rotate. 🙂 ❤
• Hydrating Water Sheet Mask – $3.00 I LOVE LOVE LOVE this mask. Best sheet mask I’ve ever used. I mention it here, here, here and here.  Either read all those posts or just take my word for it; if you haven’t yet tried this sheet mask, what the sheet mask are you waiting for? Either go buy a few now or wait until the next 50% off sale and pick up a few for $1.50.

• Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder (Fiji) – $4.00 This has been my ride or die blush for many years. I don’t use the bronzing side as much as I use the blush, but you can see both are soon to hit pan. The color is similar to Too Faced’s Love Flush blush in Love Hangover, which is my #2 blush. Over the years, I’ve gone through at least six of these. The formula is long lasting and the shade gives me a beautiful natural flushed look.
• Eye Makeup Remover Balm – $4.00 During one of e.l.f.’s 50% off sales over Thanksgiving, I came across this Eye Makeup Remover Balm and decided to give it a try. It was 50% off so no biggie if it was a dud at $2.00. It’s basically a waxy balm that you apply over your eyes to break down your eye makeup and remove it with gentle ease. I was so impressed with how well this balm works. I wish it came in different packaging, and had more product. With daily use, I went through one balm in less than 2 weeks. $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.
• Angled Blush Brush – $4.00 This is my favorite affordable blush brush. It’s the perfect size and the angle allows precision application of my blush. It’s also great for bronzing, though I don’t bronze on a regular basis. The bristles are a soft synthetic, and are vegan and cruelty free.
• Lip Exfoliator – $3.00 I use this lip exfoliator about once a week before application of lip balm or lip gloss. It really helps to keep my lips a lovely pink shade and looking healthy and soft. My favorite is Sweet Cherry.
• Flawless Concealer Blush – $3.00  I use this brush for precise powder application around my nose and mouth. I also have one to remove excess mascara from under my eyes. The bristles are a soft synthetic, and are vegan and cruelty free.

There ya have it. Ten awesome products that have been my ride or die, some new and some for years!

What are your e.l.f. Cosmetics ride or die products?

❤ 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 

 

Social Media – Part WOAH!

I recently joined Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.

Holy Social Media, y’all, I can’t keep up!

The only one I am finding myself able to keep up with is Twitter, and that is mainly because whenever I post content, it automatically posts to Twitter. I find myself checking my Twitter more than any other form of social media.

How do y’all do it?

Because I know I won’t be able to maintain all four platforms, I have decided to let go of the Facebook page, as well as Pinterest. I will keep Twitter and Instagram.

If you follow me on Instagram, please let me know! As soon as I signed up I had 300 spam accounts follow me. I want to be able to follow you in return, so let me know it’s you! 🙂

Follow me on Twitter!

❤ 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 

Tarte Cosmetics Sale!

Ok, beauties.. head on over to Tarte’s website for 70% off!

I have wanted the Limited Edition Blush Bazaar palette for a while now, but just could not convince myself to spend $44.00.

I just purchased it for $20.00, which I could do guilt-free. 🙂

So, GO! And then tell me what you bought. 🙂

 

 

❤ Cherilyn 

Social Media!

One of my goals for 2018 is to kill it with this blog!

With that said, I have decided to open a few social media accounts! I don’t know if I’ll be able to keep up, but I’ll certainly try!

 

If you’re on Twitter, Facebook , Instagram or Pinterest, comment your usernames below, or just click on my clicky clickies above to follow me and I’ll follow you back!

Please bear with me as I get them up and running.

❤ Cherilyn 

Blogmas! (Day 18) ipsy Unboxing Christmas Edition 2017

Here we are with the ipsy Christmas unboxing! I love this; it’s like an early Christmas present! 🙂  This is my final December unboxing.  I’m looking forward to what ipsy has in store for us in 2018!

If you’re not familiar,  ipsy is a beauty subscription service for $10/month.  You receive 5 beauty products; some deluxe sample sizes, with the occasional full size product. Everything arrives in a cute zippered makeup bag.

This month’s theme is Snow Globe and the bag is gorgeous! It’s a wintery mix of frosty blue and sparkly silver with a Tiffany Blue-ish zipper pull. The ipsy logo is embossed in silver.

Let’s get to the goodies!

 

• PurLisse Beauty Coconut + Rice Sheet Mask AND a Green Tea + Ginger Sheet Mask -($8.00)
  • Not sure I can use the Coconut sheet mask as I am allergic to coconut. I’ll pass it on to a friend. I can’t eat ginger (allergies), so I think I’ll pass this one on, as well, just to be on the safe side!
• TonyMoly The Chok Chok Green Tea Watery Cream – ($25.00 for full size) I honestly don’t know much about this product. Watery cream just sounds weird.
• Smashbox Cosmetics Be Legendary Lipstick in Legendary- ($21.00) This is a classic holiday red! I’m not into bold lipsticks, but I will probably wear this to my company’s Ugly Christmas Sweater party on the 20th!
• Luxie Beauty Precision Shader Onyx Brush 239 – ($14.00)  I like this brush and will put it in my rotation.
• treStiQue Mini Brow Pencil in Espresso- ($10.00)  This pencil is a bit rough. Not sure I’ll get much use out of this.

I’m not too impressed with this month’s bag, but it’s not a total miss. I guess I was just expecting something more festive to end the year. Even if everyone doesn’t celebrate Christmas, we ALL celebrate the new year. Oh well. 🙂

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!

❤ Cherilyn 

Blogmas! (Day 16) Boxycharm Unboxing Christmas Edition 2017

I was dying to get my December Boxycharm in the mail and it arrived a day earlier than expected!

If you’ve not heard of this box, Boxycharm is a monthly beauty subscription service. For $21/month, you receive 4-5 full sized beauty products in a cute little black box.  Each box is always worth $100+!

Let’s get to the goodies!

• RealHer Blush Kit  ($32.00) – The shades in this blush kit are gorgeous, but I think there is only one I can use.
• Beaute Basics Bronze Essentials ($39.95) – A pretty shimmery bronzing palette, but I will be passing this on.
• Tarte Tarteist Lash Paint Mascara ($23.00) – I really like this mascara! It gave my lashes crazy length! The wand is stiff, which I really like. It grabs each lash and coats them nicely, but not thick and goopy. I am always asked if I’m wearing falsies, and nope. I can’t apply false lashes to save my darned life. 

  

• Pretty Vulgar My Lips Are Sealed Lightweight Liquid Lipstick in Secret Sabotage ($24.00) – I’m wearing it in the photo and it’s such a pretty color. It doesn’t dry down making it transferable, but it’s light, not sticky and so very pretty. It did kind of run into the fine lines on my top lip, but if I just use the elf cosmetics Lip Lock Pencil, the color didn’t run. The packaging is pretty with gold accents and roses on the cap. I didn’t notice much of a smell.
• Crown Deluxe Blush Brush ($12.00) – This brush is seriously soft. It will be put into my brush rotation.

Total box worth: $130.95

Overall, this is a decent box. I like the blush and the bronzer palettes, but honestly, I know I won’t use the bronzer palette and I may only use just one of the blush shades. I’m diggin’ the blush brush, the mascara and the liquid lipstick. Every box can’t be a total win, but it’s not a total loss, either.

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!

❤ Cherilyn 

Sunshine Blogger Award

How awesome it is to find myself nominated for the Sunshine Blogger award by Charlotte! Check out her blog A Touch Of Charlotte for wonderful posts on fashion, reviews on makeup, posts on travel and lifestyle posts.

Thank you, Charlotte, for this lovely honor!

Give Charlotte a follow.  You can thank me later. 🙂 ❤

Here are the rules to follow for the Sunshine Blogger Award:

RULES

• Thank blogger(s) who nominated you in a blog post and link back to their blog.
• Answer the 11 questions that the blogger asked you.
• Nominate 11 blogs to receive the award and write them 11 new questions.
• List the rules and display the sunshine blogger award logo in your post and/or on your blog.

These are my answers to Charlotte’s questions:

• Who is your role model?
  • I would have to say my mother. I learned many things from my mother, but the best things are my manners and work ethic. She continues to be my role model.
• How would your friends describe you?
  • My friends would say I’m a goofball and brutally honest.
• Do you have any pets ? If so, what are their names ? If not, what pet would you like to get?
  • I have two dogs: A Boston Terrier named Tux and a Shih-Tzu named Carson.
• What’s your favourite thing to do in your spare time?
  • I adore photography. So, anytime I can spend outside with my camera is a great time.
• Imagine you could be a fictional character, who would you be and why?
  • The first character I thought of was Harry Potter. He’s a wizard who uses his wizardry for good. Also, I really would love to have an owl and a Nimbus 2000.
• What are the top shops that you like to buy things from ?
  • Sephora
  • Ulta
  • Walmart
• What are your fears?
  • SPIDERS
  • All bugs, really.
  • Ladybugs scare me, too.
  • So do butterflies.
• What is one thing that you wish that you would have known when you were 13?
  • 12 years of school goes by a lot faster if I’d have just shut up and enjoyed it rather than complain how it sucks and that I hate homework and blah blah blah. Also, to skip college and go to a trade school.
• How would you describe your style?
  • I’d say sloppy. But apparently I’m punk with black hair, wearing converse, and quirky socks.
• Are looks or personality more important for you?
  • I prefer personality. You can be Jason Momoa hot but if you’re as exciting as a table, it’s just not gonna work out, ya know?
  • 
  • Mmm, Jason Momoa.
• What gets you up every morning?
  • If it wasn’t my infant-sized bladder, it’d be my dogs because they have to pee and they’re hungry. 😉
  • I get up in the morning because I love my life. I know that sounds so rom-com, but it’s true. And I have two Grandsons that make it worth getting up in the morning. ❤

And my nominees for the Sunshine Blogger Award:

The Style of Laura Jane

Queen of the Girl Geeks

don’t give a jam

Currently, Lately

fortyflirtyfabulous

Ok, now here are MY eleven questions for my nominees!

1. What motivated you to start blogging?
2. Do you play any musical instruments? If yes, what do you play and why did you choose said instrument? If no, do you wish you could play an instrument and which would you choose?
3. What is your favorite sound?
4. What would be your dream adventure?
5. What was the best book you’ve ever read?
6. What has been your proudest achievement?
7. Who do you go to for advice?
8. So, you’re stranded on a desert island. What five things do you have with you? To make this even more interesting, you can’t pick obvious things like your family, your bestie, your dog (or guinea pig) (or lizard) (or cat).
9. What is your biggest pet peeve?
10. What calms you?
11. Early bird or night owl?

❤ Cherilyn

 

ANOTHER elf Cosmetics 50% Off Sale Haul!

elf Cosmetics had yet another 50% off sale on the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday. Of course I took advantage and purchased a bunch of goodies that I’ve not tried before. On this haul, my subtotal was $73.00, however, thanks to the 50% off, I saved $36.50 and I received free shipping.

Let’s get to the goodies! The red asterisked items are products I’ve tried and repurchased because they are AWESOME. All links will open in a separate window:

• Hydrating Gel Melt Cleanser – $10.00 ($5.00) I ordered two because I’ve used this every night for the past two weeks and it is freeking awesome. **
• Shimmer Highlighting Powder in Rose Glow – $6.00 ($3.00) I am addicted to these highlighting powders. The colors are subtle and so pretty.  I have two – Pearl Glow and Starlight Glow. They’re both gorgeous.
• Poreless Face Primer – $6.00 ($3.00) I’m not a big primer user but I like to keep one or two on hand. I don’t think I’ve used the poreless primer.
• Concealer in Ivory – $3.00 ($1.50) I purchased this more for an eyelid primer. I forgot to take a picture of it.  Oops.
• Lip Lacquer in Natural – $2.00 ($1.00) I accidentally put two of these in my cart. For $1.00 I’m not mad about that. I’ve heard some positive things about their lip lacquers so I decided to try one out.
• Lip Lock Pencil – $3.00 ($1.50) Decided to try this product as I have fine lines around my lips and my lip gloss is attracted to them like I’m attracted to makeup. THIS WORKS! Review coming soon!
• Daily Face Cleanser – $4.00 ($2.00) I think I’ve tried this before but the packaging was different. I’m going to give it another go.

 

• Exfoliating Scrub – $5.00 ($2.50) Another interesting skin care product that I’m looking forward to trying. It’s amazing that even with my extremely sensitive skin, I am still willing to try new skin care products.
• Baked Blush in Pinktastic – $3.00 ($1.50) Another product that I accidentally purchased two. I bought this more for its highlight-y appearance.
• Matte Blush Duo in Soft & Subtle – $4.00 ($2.00) A favorite blush is the Contouring Blush & Bronzer Duo in Fiji. I decided to give this one a shot. The colors look beautiful.
• Makeup Remover Cleaning Cloths 2 pack – $5.00 ($2.50) I like these to remove makeup swatches off my skin. 🙂 Can’t beat 40 clothes for $2.50. I don’t think it’s a good bargain at regular price. I can buy the Walmart Equate Beauty cloths for under $4.00 for 40 wipes.
• Brush Shampoo – $3.00 ($1.50) This is another product I have used before and like.  It cleans my brushes well, has a light scent which I like, and is inexpensive. **

Did you treat yourself to anything during this sale? What’dya get?

❤ 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

 

elf Cosmetics 50% Off Sale Haul

Just recently elf Cosmetics had their 50% off sale, and I always take advantage of these sales because it’s a great time to stock up on products I love and always use, and a great way to try newer products. I received my goodies on November 18th and I’m dying to share them with y’all!

Bolded items are products I’ve not yet tried. The red asterisked products are products I love and stock up on at every opportunity! All links will open in a separate window:

• Studio Blush in Candid Coral ($3.00)
• Tinted Lip Oil in Mocha Kiss ($6.00)
• Shimmer Lip Balm in Lighten Golden Glow ($5.00)
• Flawless Finish Foundation in Natural ($6.00) **
• Prismatic Highlighting Duo in Mermaid Tail ($8.00)
• Lock On Liner and Brown Cream in Espresso ($4.00)

• Beautifully Bare Sheer Tint Brow Gel in Dark ($5.00)
• Clear Brow and Lash Mascara ($2.00) **
• Hydrating Gel Melt Cleanser ($10.00)
• Eye Makeup Remover Balm ($4.00)
• Hydrating Water Sheet Mask ($3.00) **
• Brush Cleaner Wipes ($3.00)
• Eyebrow Duo Brush ($3.00)
• Mini Glam Case in Watermelon ($4.00)

Shimmer on its own

I purchased all these goodies for just under $65.00 (that includes sales tax). I saved $51.50! Did you take advantage of e.l.f.’s 50% off sale? What’d you get?

❤ Cherilyn 

 

 

ANOTHER e.l.f. Cosmetics 50% Off Sale!

It’s Thanksgiving in the U.S. and to celebrate, e.l.f. cosmetics is having another 50% off sale!

Click on the below photo to go to e.l.f.’s website to get your stash!

I know. I JUST received an e.l.f. 50% off sale package the other day, what else could I possibly need that I didn’t order a few days ago? Well, this time I decided to purchase all items I’ve not used before, with the exception of the Hydrating Gel Melt Cleanser because I just received this, I’ve used it the past two evenings, and I LOVE it.  A review will be up soon because this is a product to be shared! If you’re curious about this product, right now you can get it for $5.00!

On this haul, my subtotal was $73.00, however, thanks to the 50% off, I saved $36.50 and I received free shipping.

Go here to get your goodies! Then tell me what you got! 🙂

To all my friends celebrating today, have a wonderful day filled with family, friends and food. ❤

❤ Cherilyn 

ipsy – November 2017

I received my ipsy bag and I just can’t help but fall in love with ipsy a little more each month!

If you’re not familiar,  ipsy is a beauty subscription service for $10/month.  You receive 5 beauty products; some deluxe sample sizes, with the occasional full size product. Everything arrives in a cute zippered makeup bag.

This month’s bag is not a favorite, but I was hoping I’d receive the bag in the aqua/teal shades. It is a cute jewel-toned bag with the ipsy logo printed in silver on the zipper pull.

Let’s get to the goodies (All links will open in a new window):

• Tarte Deluxe Amazonian Clay 12-hour Blush in Feisty – Tarte has a limited edition of 5 deluxe blushes for $35.00
• it Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC Cream in Fair– No offer available
• Skyn ICELAND Berry Lip Fix with Wintered Red Algea – (ipsy25 for 25% off)
• Manna Kadar Lip Locked Stain in All of Me – (ipsy2017 for 20% off)
• Naked Cosmetics Metallic Loose Powder in Mother Nature #06 – (ipsy30 for 30% off)

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!

❤ Cherilyn 

Boxycharm – November 2017

It’s that time again! My November Boxycharm is here!

If you’ve not heard of this box, Boxycharm is a monthly beauty subscription service. For $21/month, you receive 4-5 full sized beauty products in a cute little black box.  Each box is always worth $100+!

This month’s theme is Sweater Weather. Let’s get on to the goodies (All links will open in a separate window):

• Luxie Beauty Quad Eye Travel Set – ($32.00) OMG this travel set of eye brushes is the cutest! The brushes are so soft!
• Cover FX Illuminating Setting Spray – (31.00) I am excited to try this spray. I have a bit of an addiction to setting sprays and one that illuminates my skin? Uh, yes please!
• • Ok, I tried this spray and, um, it’s weird. The sprayer isn’t bad, but it shoots out in super short spurts. <— say that 10 times fast. Also, it is pretty on my cheeks, but my forehead just looked oily.
• Winkylux Kitten Palette – ($25.00) Raise your hand if you need another eyeshadow palette? Yep! My hand is raised right along with y’all! 😉 This is the cutest little palette. The shades are very pretty and the swatches applied nicely.
• LAQA & Co. Cloud Lips Matte Lipstick in Storm – ($17.00) This is an interesting color. Looks NOTHING like the color of the lipstick. It was a bit streaky, and it is a pretty color, but one that I definitely cannot wear.
• KNC Beauty Collagen Lip Masks – ($15.00) This is a strange product that I’m curious to try! I don’t think I’d purchase unless they truly do perform miracles! A 5 pack is $24.99. I’ll definitely be reviewing these!

Total box worth: $120.00!

Overall, this box isn’t my favorite, but I do like the full size setting spray, the adorable eyeshadow palette and those travel eye brushes!

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!

❤ Cherilyn 

MorpheMe Unboxing – November 2017

It’s a new month and the subscription boxes are startin’ to roll in!

I just received November’s set of Morphe brushes.

If you aren’t familiar, MorpheMe is a subscription 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 have been subscribed since February and have received a wide variety of brushes.

I opted to trade this month’s brushes for the foundation brush set that was sent back in February.

• E8 ($6.00) – Detail Contour – I’ll probably use this for precise powder application.  I don’t contour much. I may even see how it holds up for highlight application.
• M439 Deluxe Buffer ($14.00) – I already own this brush, but it’s one of my favorites for applying foundation. I am excited to have another as back up. 🙂
• E26 Oval Foundation/Concealer ($13.00) – I’m not sure I’ll use this brush for foundation. I prefer to use flat brushes for primer application. Also, this is the first dual-ended brush in my collection. It’s a nice looking brush.

Overall, I am more excited to have a spare M439 than I am about the other two brushes, but the actual November brushes didn’t excite me, and I already have the big fluffy powder brush.  I like the option to trade out brushes and to skip months without penalty. I’ve been a MorpheMe subscriber since February and I’ve not been disappointed.

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. 😉  It’s $19.99/month.

❤ Cherilyn

e.l.f. Cosmetics 50% Off Sale!

Hey there, lovelies!

Ok, ok, this is not really a haul post YET.  😉

e.l.f. Cosmetics is having their 50% off sale!  Also, Ebates is currently offering 15% cash back!  I am not sponsored by e.l.f. Cosmetics or Ebates. I actually use Ebates and just want to pass the awesomeness off to y’all!  I made my purchase last night and did not receive 15% cash back, which is a bit of a bummer, but I saved $51.50 on product so I’m not mad.

Clicky clicky to shop at e.l.f. and clicky clicky to sign up for Ebates.  All links will open in a new window.

I always take advantage of the e.l.f. 50% off sales.  It’s a perfect opportunity to pick up items I’ve not tried, as well as to stock up on my favorite products! Though e.l.f. cosmetics are already incredibly affordable, why not try new products for 50% less than their normal price?!

I picked up 10 items I haven’t tried; some pretty new since the last time I browsed the website.  I also take advantage of stocking up on my favorite products like the Flawless Finish foundation (in Natural), and of course, my FAVORITE sheet mask! I picked up 10 sheet masks for $15.00 vs. $30.00.  If you’re a frequent reader of my site, you’ll know how much I LOVE LOVE LOVE the e.l.f. sheet mask.

Will YOU be taking advantage of e.l.f.’s 50% off sale? Share your wish list and haul!

❤ 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? 

Boxycharm – October 2017

I received my Boxycharm last week! If you’ve not heard of this box, Boxycharm is a monthly beauty subscription service. For $21/month, you receive 4-5 full sized beauty products in a cute little black box.  Each box is always worth $100+!

This month’s theme is Spellbound!  I received 5 full sized products in this month’s box and I’m excited to share them with y’all! All links will open in a separate window:

• Dr. Brandt Pore Dermabrasion – $58.00  I used this a few days after receiving my box, and it’s OK.  I have sensitive skin and it didn’t irritate my skin.
• Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighter (Prosecco Pop) – $38.00 I am glad that I received the pressed powder, though it is a bit too gold for my skin color. I may use it from time to time.
• Tarte Tarteist Quick Dry Matte Lip Paint (Front Row) – $20.00 I didn’t like this color on me at all. I’m more of a lip gloss gal.
• Jonteblu Lip Liner Pencil (Brown Sugar) – $5.00 Meh.
• Dirty Little Secrets Eyeshadow Chubby (Illusion) – $14.00 I haven’t used this yet.  It’s very pretty, though.

Total box worth: $135.00!

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!

❤ Cherilyn 

Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty

It’s back! The best holiday (after Halloween and Christmas) is back!

Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty!

I received my catalog in today’s mail, which was a nice surprise after the long morning I had finding out my Macbook Pro is kaput.😞

I immediately came inside the house, poured myself a big ol’ glass of my favorite pinot noir (Yellow Tail), plopped on the sofa, opened my Ulta catalog, with pen in hand, I was ready to circle all the items I need.  Yes, NEED.

Hmm.

I am a bit disappointed with the items offered. After going over everything at least 20 times, there is only ONE day that appeals to me. UH…say what?!

September 9th.

I purchased the Benefit Roller Lash mascara in its travel size almost 2 months ago. I then immediately purchased the full size because HOLY POO IT’S AMAZING. Yes, I know. I felt this way about a few mascaras in the last 6 months, but this one has been consistent with its awesomeness.

I promise to do a review post on this mascara, but if you’re anyone who uses mascara, I am sure you’ve tried it. Right? Right?! Psst… try it!

So, September 9th is my day. One day. One. *sigh*

Tell me, what are you planning to pick up during Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty? Do you have any recommendations?

💕Cherilyn

Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty

I am excited for Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty sale, so much so that I visited my Ulta store and peed on the things I want to claim as mine!

Just kidding!  I haven’t done that, but I have put some of the things I want in my online shopping cart.  🙂

Here is the link to shop Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty online.

Day 1 begins tomorrow!

March 19th:

• Too Faced Love Flush Blush (Love Hangover)
  • Regularly $26/Sale $13

March 20th:

• Fiona Stiles Light Illusion Prism Palette
  • Regularly $28/Sale $14

March 22nd:

• Buxom Full On Lip Cream (Not sure of the color I want!)
  • Regularly $20/Sale $10

March 26th:

• Becca Backlight Priming Filter
  • Regularly $38/Sale $19

March 31st

• Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water
  • Regularly $32/Sale $16

April 8th:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz pencil (Granite)
  • Regularly $21/Sale $10

HOT BUY (Available every day of the event):

• PÜR Miracle Mist Hydrating Spray
  • Regularly $18/Sale $13

Not a bad haul for under $100!

What will you be picking up during Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty? Is there something I missed that I should try?