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 

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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

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 

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 

 

L’Oreal’s Revitalift 14 Day Challenge

For the past 12 days I have been doing the L’Oreal Revitalift Challenge. I posted my first day and first 7 days photos here.

At first, I liked the moisturizer, other than the strong scent that lingers on my skin. While it did nothing to improve my wrinkles and fine lines, I felt it provided decent moisture to my normal to dry skin. Even without anti-aging improvement, I decided to finish the challenge until I noticed that at a few days prior to yesterday’s Day 12, my skin was pretty oily. I have normal to dry skin so I can only contribute the oil to using the Revitalift moisturizer. By the time I got home from work yesterday my face was an oily mess.

I cleansed, exfoliated and used toner which I don’t normally do until before bed. I didn’t apply any of the moisturizer. Within 30 minutes, my skin was oily.  I did not use the Revitalift moisturizer last night, and I did not use the Revitalift moisturizer this morning.

I will not be finishing the challenge because I do not want my skin to continue being oily.

Other than the oily skin, I did not notice any positive changes in my skin. I have never much believed in the anti-aging hype. I do not believe there is a cream or an ointment that can diminish fine lines and wrinkles. There are products that contain harsh ingredients that plump the skin giving the appearance of diminished fine lines and wrinkles, but the harsh chemicals are doing more underlying damage.

I appreciate being sent the challenge, however L’Oreal’s Revitalift line is just not for me.

Did you do the Revitalift Challenge? Do you use anti-aging products? What do you think?

❤ 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

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

 

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? 

❤️

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! ❤

Dermactin-TS Moisturizing Sheet Mask – A Review

Yesterday morning I decided to try this Dermactin-TS moisturizing sheet mask.  I’ve never tried this brand before; I recently picked up this mask at Sally Beauty.  I prefer hydrating and moisturizing masks because while my skin is normal to dry, currently I am experiencing bouts of dry patches.

I opened the pack and immediately it smelled slightly medicinal. I unfolded the mask and was surprised to find that it was in two pieces.  The eye holes had flaps, so I don’t know if I was supposed to cover my eyes. I just left the flappy eye parts down. As you can see in the photo, the nose piece was really large.  It was just a strange mask.

I placed it on my freshly cleansed face. This mask was saturated pretty well.  It felt nice on my face and I like that I didn’t have to continuously press the mask onto my skin.  It held on pretty well. The instructions called to leave it on for 15-20 minutes and then wash off any remaining residue with warm water.

After 20 minutes, I removed the mask and rinsed off the residue.  My skin looked somewhat moisturized, and I smelled the medicinal serum.  Even after applying moisturizer, I could still smell the serum from the mask.  It’s not overpowering, just noticeable.

I don’t have anything negative to say about the mask.  My face did look moisturized and hydrated, and my skin felt nice.  Thirty minutes later, my skin still felt really good.

I give this mask 4 **** out of 5 asterisks. 🙂

Have you tried masks from this brand? What are your go-to sheet masks?

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.

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! 🙂