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Review: Revlon Ultra HD Lipsticks & Lip Lacquers

February 26, 2015

Hi again, dolls!

My review today will be on the new Revlon Ultra HD Lipsticks and Lipglosses. I purchased two lipsticks (HD Peony and HD Azalea) and two lip lacquers (HD Pink Sapphire and HD Pink Ruby) at a CVS (I had some Extra Bucks to spend and they were on Buy 1 Get 1 50% Off, so why not!) and I gotta say, these looked very alluring on display.

Revlon Ultra HD Lip Lacquer HD Pink Ruby, Revlon Ultra HD Lip Lacquer HD Pink Sapphire, Revlon Ultra HD Lipstick HD Peony, Revlon Ultra HD Lipstick HD Azalea

L – R: Revlon Ultra HD Lip Lacquers “HD Pink Ruby” & “HD Pink Sapphire”,
Revlon Ultra HD Lipsticks “HD Peony” & “HD Azalea”.

When I first encountered them, I literally itched to give these a try. Too bad there weren’t any testers, as usual. The term “Ultra HD” really got to me, even though I really had no idea what it meant in relation to lipstick.

In fact, I still don’t.

I’ve searched for reviews on these on the Internet and not one person knows what the term “Ultra HD” meant in this case – Revlon never really explained too! They simply described these as having “true color clarity without the heavy feel”. I’m just going to assume that “Ultra HD” meant that these lippies are extra vibrant, vivid, and high-resolution-looking on the lips.

So, did these live up to their “Ultra HD” claims?

Read on to find out!

Revlon Ultra HD Lipstick

Shades & Color Payoff

The Revlon Ultra HD Lipsticks come in 20 shades. I picked up one light shade, and one darker shade.

These retail for US$9.99 at CVS, but AU$23.95 in Priceline. Ooh my goodness.

I am so thankful to the Lord I got mine at CVS for Buy 1 Get 1 50%!

HD Azalea

HD Azalea is a rich, medium berry pink. It’s on the brighter side and is very flattering on my warm-neutral skin tone.

Revlon Ultra HD Lipstick “HD Azalea”

HD Azalea has an amazing color payoff. Just a few pats on the lips will create a beautiful red wine stain, and one full heavy-handed swipe will create a completely opaque look.

L – R: Chanel Glossimer #169, Revlon Ultra HD Lip Lacquer “HD Pink Ruby”,
Revlon Ultra HD Lipstick “HD Azalea”,
“HD Azalea” + Chanel Glossimer #169,
“HD Azalea” + “HD Pink Ruby”

I love pairing this with Chanel’s Glossimer in 169, which is a very similar to the Revlon Ultra HD Lip Lacquer in HD Pink Ruby, except it’s a bit sheerer because it’s a lipgloss, not a lacquer.

If I pair HD Azalea with HD Pink Ruby, it’s a bit too intense for my liking.

HD Peony

HD Peony is a cool-toned pale, baby pink. It’s definitely not opaque, though.

Revlon Ultra HD Lipstick “HD Peony”

No matter how many layers I try to apply, the color just won’t become opaque. I guess this is supposed to be one of the sheerer ones? It definitely doesn’t look HD to me.

If anything, it’s “Ultra HD” because it emphasizes my lines!

They apply very unevenly, settles into lines and dry patches, and the color looks pasty. Not good.

However, when swatched on my hand, it looks so pretty. Do keep in mind that I had to layer the hand swatch to about five or six layers to make it that opaque.

L – R: Revlon Ultra HD Lipstick “HD Peony”,
“HD Peony” + “HD Pink Sapphire”,
Revlon Ultra HD Lip Lacquer “Pink Sapphire”

The only way I’ve been wearing this is when it’s paired with the Revlon Ultra HD Lip Lacquer in Pink Sapphire, which I will review below. The gloss and shimmers from the lip lacquer somehow smooths out all the patchiness from the lipstick.

Formula & Finish

Here’s Revlon’s official description of the lipsticks:

“Revolutionary wax-free gel technology for true color clarity in one smooth swipe.”

These lipsticks feel rather balmy, and I’m not surprised. It’s because of the gel formula that it feels rather slick and balm-like. But the color intensity of HD Azalea is far from that of a balm! 🙂

The finish of these definitely aren’t matte, but they’re not shiny too – so they’re somewhere in between. They actually have a very nice, silky finish and a lightweight feel. The shades that I picked up don’t have shimmers in it.

I didn’t expect these to be moisturizing, but they actually turn out to be pretty darn moisturizing. Not as moisturizing as the Revlon Lip Butters, but still good enough that my lips never chapped from wearing them.

Oh, they also have a strong scent and flavor, which I personally dislike. They remind me of fruit flavored cough syrup. Yuck. The scent is so strong that I can taste it whenever I’m wearing the lipsticks. They actually fade after a few hours but it still bothers me.

I do notice that a lot of people like the scent though, so it’s a matter of personal preference.

Longevity

The HD Peony only lasted a few hours on me, not even 4 or 5. Maybe because it’s one of the sheerer ones. Gosh I really dislike this shade.

However, HD Azalea lasted for about 8 hours – gradually becoming more of a stain from the 5th or 6th hour mark. I never touched up because I liked the look of the stain. It’s an effortless “red wine” stain on the lips.

Packaging

OH MY GOODNESS.

THE PACKAGING.

GAH.

L – R: Revlon Ultra HD Lipstick “HD Peony” & Revlon Ultra HD Lipstick “HD Azalea”

I loathe it.

The lipstick bullet doesn’t completely twist all the way down. The tip of the bullet actually peeks out from the barrel. So you have to be extra cautious when putting the cap back on. I chipped off my Peony lipstick just after my first try! How ridiculous is that.

Revlon Ultra HD Lipstick “HD Peony”

And the cap is also very dirty now.

Revlon Ultra HD Lipstick “HD Peony”

The Wet n Wild Mega Last lipsticks also have a similar type of packaging where it has a clear cap and a lipstick bullet that doesn’t completely swivel down, but I find that I never had much drama with it. I think it’s because the Revlon ones have a taller cap, so it’s much more difficult to control.

So this isn’t a lipstick I would want to carry around in my purse and apply when in a hurry, it’s just going to create one big mess.

The clear plastic cap and silver barrel makes them look modern and futuristic, though, which kinda goes with the whole “Ultra HD” theme, but it somehow looks cheap.

Not a big fan of the packaging.

Final Verdict

PROS:

HD Azalea has amazing color payoff and longevity

Great formula

Moisturizing

CONS:

PACKAGING. OH MY GOSH. *smh*

This may not be a “con” for some, but I personally dislike the scent and flavor!

HD Peony applies very unevenly and is too sheer.

Rating (HD Peony):

Sorry, Peony. You only get a 1 from me. ‘Nuff sed.

Rating (HD Azalea):

On the other hand, HD Azalea deserves a 3.5/5.

One chunk of point off for the horrendous packaging, and half off for the overwhelming scent and flavor. Otherwise, it’s perfect. I love the shade and formula.

Repurchase?

I definitely would like to try out other shades, but I will be steering away from the lighter shades as I think they might end up being just as bad as HD Peony!

Revlon Ultra HD Lip Lacquers

Shades & Color Payoff

These lip lacquers are available in 15 shades. As with the lipsticks, I picked up one light shade and one brighter, darker shade.

L – R: Revlon Ultra HD Lip Lacquer “HD Pink Ruby” & Revlon Ultra HD Lip Lacquer “HD Pink Sapphire”

As with the lipsticks, these also retail for US$9.99 at CVS, but AU$23.95 in Priceline.

HD Pink Sapphire

HD Pink Sapphire is a light baby pink with gold shimmers (or glitter, I should say).

It’s so darn sparkly!

Revlon Ultra HD Lip Lacquer “HD Pink Sapphire”

Not sure if the sparkle is a good thing or not – I probably wouldn’t want lips that are too sparkly on a daily basis. Probably only for certain nights out.

This shade can’t be worn alone though. It’s so streaky, pasty and milky. It settles into lines too.

It’s also semi-sheer, so it seems to be more of a lip gloss than a lip lacquer.

HD Pink Ruby

HD Pink Ruby is a bright, reddish pink shade that has fuschia iridescence to it. It also has shimmers in it. This shade is so beautiful and is VERY OPAQUE!

Its opacity is no joke.

HD Pink Ruby is so intense and opaque that it looks so beautiful even on its own.

Revlon Ultra HD Lip Lacquer “HD Pink Ruby”

The shade itself reminds me of my favorite Chanel lipgloss, the Chanel Glossimer in 169 Jalouise which is why I picked up this shade! I thought it might be a dupe – and it’s actually very similar!

The only difference is that the Revlon is a lip lacquer, so it’s completely opaque, whereas the Chanel Glossimer is a lip gloss, so it’s semi-sheer, but the Chanel also has that fuschia iridescence to it.

Chanel Glossimer #169 Jalousie

HD Pink Ruby looks much sharper, intense and opaque than the Chanel gloss, which is probably why these lip lacquers are named “Ultra HD”. In the photos above, you can see the difference between the Revlon and Chanel – HD Pink Ruby is definitely sharper.

Formula & Finish

These lip lacquers have a lipgloss feel to them, but is much more intense and opaque in color.

Revlon claims that these were made with “innovative wax-free technology“.

“Get true color clarity, vivid high-impact shine and a bouncy, lightweight feel.“

These do feel very bouncy and lightweight. I love it!

However, I do find that if I apply too much, some product will slide into my mouth and smear my teeth a bit.

Longevity

As with HD Peony, HD Pink Sapphire also lasted a few hours. I seriously don’t know what it is with the lighter shades in this range. They have bad color payoff and terrible longevity.

However, the HD Pink Ruby lasted at least 6 hours on me, which is amazing for a lip lacquer/gloss. it lasts much longer when worn on top of HD Azalea.

Packaging & Applicator

I personally have always loved the packaging of Revlon lip glosses. These are actually prettier than their classic lip glosses.

The silver wand holder looks so modern and futuristic, and the crystal on top gives it an extra UMPH! Makes it look so much classier.

Revlon Ultra HD Lip Lacquer Packaging

The applicator is a brush, and it makes application so easy and precise.

Revlon Ultra HD Lip Lacquer Applicator

The brush always tends to pick up too much product though, so I always have to wipe off excess product on the opening of the packaging. But no big deal.

Final Verdict

PROS:

Lovely packaging
Lightweight formula
HD Pink Ruby is very opaque
Beautiful finish

CONS:

HD Pink Sapphire is terrible. Period.
Over-application will cause smearing on teeth. Yuck!

Rating (HD Pink Sapphire):

I’m giving HD Pink Sapphire a 2.5/5 because even though it’s terrible on its own, it actually looks pretty nice on top of other lip products. It’s just a bit too shimmery and sparkly for my liking, though.

Rating (HD Pink Ruby):

I highly recommend HD Pink Ruby!

I have no complaints, except for the fact that it sometimes smear on to my teeth, but other than that –
it’s perfect.

Repurchase?

Definitely!

But again, not in the lighter shades.

What is it with their light shades?! I hope they improve them.

Have you given these newbies a try?

What are your thoughts on them?

Let me know in the comments below!

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Makeup

Review: Rimmel London ScandalEyes Kate Mascara by Kate Moss

February 25, 2015

Stephanie Casidy

Hey, my loves!

I have a very exciting review for you all today.

This is the brand new RIMMEL LONDON ScandalEyes “Kate” Mascara, which is Rimmel’s blackest mascara ever, designed by Kate Moss herself. She was actually personally involved in the design of the bold shade of this mascara!

RIMMEL LONDON ScandalEyes "Kate" Mascara Jet Black

Rimmel London ScandalEyes Kate Mascara in Jet Black

This mascara actually came in four different shades: Jet Black, Emerald Green, Amethyst and Sapphire. I was sent the Jet Black shade to review.

The mascara boasts its “curvacious” and innovative wand, which they claim would create dramatic volume.

Well, let’s see if they live up to their claims, shall we?

Formula

The formula is very wet – probably the wettest mascara I’ve ever owned. It’s so wet that application can be very messy!

This is not the type of mascara you could use when you’re in a rush. Look at all that mess on my lashline! This wasn’t the first time I used this mascara, and I still had trouble applying them neatly. First time I used this mascara I had black stains on my upper lid!

Mascara mess! 🙁

Due to the wetness of the formula, this mascara is better suited for people with naturally thicker lashes. People with thin lashes will suffer from droopy lashes if they wear mascaras with wet formulations like this – their thin lashes would not be able to hold up the curl.

My natural lashes without mascara & without eyelash curler

For an Asian woman, my lashes are considered pretty thick and curly – they’re not as short and sparse as Asian women’s lashes in general, which I’m quite happy about. However, they definitely do not measure up to the thickness of non-Asian lashes. So I guess my lashes are somewhere in between thick and thin, which is why wet mascaras could still work on me.

Performance

In the photos you see here, I was not wearing any makeup and I did not curl my lashes.

My lashes are naturally quite curled up, but I’m very impressed with this mascara for being able to curl up my lashes even more without me having to use an eyelash curler. The curl actually lasted the whole day, which is surprising because wet mascaras usually weigh my lashes down.

I guess the formula is lightweight, even though it’s wet.

(Btw, sorry for the different intensities of lighting – the sun keeps playing peek-a-boo with me!)

RIMMEL LONDON ScandalEyes “Kate” Mascara in Jet Black
1 Layer without eyelash curler

RIMMEL LONDON ScandalEyes “Kate” Mascara in Jet Black
Left: 1 Layer (without eyelash curler), Right: No Mascara

With one layer, my lashes definitely look longer. I guess the wand really does lengthen and curl well! I also like how it separates my lashes.

The only problem I have with it is that it applies messy, I guess.

RIMMEL LONDON ScandalEyes “Kate” Mascara in Jet Black
2 Layers without eyelash curler

RIMMEL LONDON ScandalEyes “Kate” Mascara in Jet Black
Left: 2 Layers (without eyelash curler), Right: No Mascara

With the second layer, I didn’t really see much change, except that I see more clumps, but I could brush them off with the wand, which is good.

I waited a few minutes before applying the second coat because when I was applying the first coat, the formula was too wet for me to keep building it up. If I had built up more layers at first try, it’ll just get messier!

The two coats lasted the whole entire day (had them on for about 12-14 hours) even though I was sweating like a pig (it’s summer here in Australia!). I was impressed that there was minimal smudging. For a non-waterproof mascara, it actually holds up in the heat pretty good!

Color Intensity

Rimmel London claims that this is their blackest mascara ever, and I have to agree.

It’s probably one of the blackest mascaras of all time.

RIMMEL LONDON ScandalEyes “Kate” Mascara in Jet Black

Definitely a bull’s eye with this one, Rimmel! Look at that intensity!

Wand

The wand is one of the things that bothered me the most about this mascara.

I cannot stand weirdly-shaped mascara wands!

How am I supposed to know which side is up without an instruction manual?!

Anyway, I’ve tried using a few different ways, and this side up seems to work best for my lashes. This way, my lashes are “hugged” well and they end up being curled up.

RIMMEL LONDON ScandalEyes “Kate” Mascara in Jet Black

The bristles are long and tightly spaced to help paint the lashes one by one, down from the roots. However, I find that they’re a bit too long – too long that they sometimes get on to the lid (which is what happens to me every time I wear this mascara), but as long as I’m careful and slow, the mess isn’t that bad.

The bristles also helped minimize clumping, which I think is one of the best features of this mascara.

Rimmel claims that…

“The broken heart-shaped brush
twists and curves to hug the lash-
line: the thin tip grabs hard-to-reach
inner lashes, while the amplified base
pulses lashes with dramatic volume
and curve.”

I totally agree about the thin tip – reaching hard-to-reach lashes are effortless with the help of the tip.

As for the “broken-heart-shaped” brush, I’m honestly not a big fan. I find it to be confusing, and I find that it makes application kinda messy! I honestly prefer a good ol’ half-oval curved wand.

Packaging

The packaging is the one thing that I love the most about this mascara!

Look at how sleek and stylish it is? Reminds me of Kate herself.

RIMMEL LONDON ScandalEyes “Kate” Mascara in Jet Black

The mascara is presented in a beautiful, luxe-looking silver metallized bottle emblazoned with Kate’s signature and heart motif in red. It doesn’t get any classier than that.

And the wand handle isn’t too short and stumpy either (which I hate in a mascara) – so holding the wand is such a breeze!

Price

In Australia, the Rimmel London ScandalEyes Kate Mascara retails for AU$16.95 at Priceline, Chemist Warehouse, Target, KMart, Big W and selected Coles and Woolworths.

Final Verdict

PROS:

Beautiful, sleek packaging

Curls, separates and lengthens well
Curl lasts a long time (10-12 hours) if you have medium to thick lashes

Doesn’t have an overpowering, disturbing scent

Minimal clumping

Minimal smudging (but smudges when applied on lower lashes)

CONS:

Messy application

Formula is too wet, can make application a bit tricky

Wand shape is a bit difficult to work with

Doesn’t volumize at all

Suited For:

People with naturally non-black hair.

This mascara is clearly targeted for caucasian women like Kate herself,

whose main concern is darkness and color intensity when it comes to mascara.

The wet formula is also much more suitable for non-Asian women, who are known to have thicker lashes.

Rating:

I heavy-heartedly have to give this a 3.5/5 because of personal preference. It’s just too wet for me, and I hate that I have to be super patient when applying this. I personally like wet mascaras like the Lancome Hypnose, which is one of my all-time favorites, but this mascara is just way too wet for my liking. I also prefer mascaras that give dramatic volume like the Benefit They’re Real or Too Faced Better Than Sex mascaras.

I also don’t like that I have to wait a long time for this to dry up on my lashes! I have to be extra cautious when blinking so it won’t end up all over my lid!

Bottom line is…

If you’re looking for a volumizing mascara, this is not for you.

If you’re looking for a mascara that you can apply fast and easy, don’t even bother.

If you’re looking for a mascara that will simply lengthen and blacken, then this is it!

Repurchase?

Definitely not because the formula is simply too wet for me,

and I don’t need intensely black mascaras. My lashes are naturally black 🙂

However, I do highly recommend this for people who are looking for intensely black mascaras.

Especially blondes! <3

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Makeup

Gucci Beauty Review: Nostalgia Lipstick, Pink Camelia Blush & Crystal Copper Eyeshadow Quad

February 15, 2015

Stephanie Casidy

I was so excited when Gucci released their beauty line last year, I nabbed three of these essentials straight away. Gucci Beauty is currently only available online, which makes purchasing face products such as powder, foundation and concealer very difficult. So I only limited myself to getting one quad, one lipstick and one blush. Didn’t want to risk getting the wrong foundation shade even though I really wanted to try it!

After intensely experimenting with these for months, I have come to the conclusion that I am definitely willing to purchase more products from the line!

So, read on for my review, swatches and a full makeup look using these baes. (These are all “Made in Italy” by the way. OH. MY. GOSH.)

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Makeup

Review: OPI Fifty Shades of Grey (Embrace The Gray, My Silk Tie, Romantically Involved)

February 14, 2015

Stephanie Casidy

Happy Valentine’s Day, loves!

Hope you’re either having a comfy, snuggly, warm, lovely day – or a fiesty one!

Today’s post will be my review of the latest OPI nail polish collection inspired by the hotly anticipated film adaptation of the worldwide bestselling book by E L James, Fifty Shades of Grey, with more than 100 million copies sold to date.

OPI Fifty Shades of Grey

Available from last month, the OPI Fifty Shades of Grey Collection includes six new limited edition nail lacquers, five of which are different shades of grey, and one of which is a sultry, rich red shade. They also come in a variety of textures!

OPI Fifty Shades of Grey (Embrace The Gray, My Silk Tie, Romantically Involved)

I was sent three shades to try: Embrace The Gray, My Silk Tie, and Romantically Involved, and am very pleased by the quality and colors.

Read on for my review and shade comparisons.

Disclaimer: This product was sent for review, however, all opinions expressed are unbiased and are of my own.

No commissions are received from purchases based on this review.

The collection was created to capture the mood, feelings and emotions of the film, hence the assorted hues of gray, ranging from “glittering and gleaming silvers to cool gray crèmes to dark charcoal” and “a rich crème red to represent passion”.

“Color is so much more than something to admire.

[They] represent our personalities, our moods, our feelings.

The collection bottles the film’s passion, luxury and power in six beautiful nail lacquers ideal for expressing sensuality through beauty.”

– Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, OPI Co-Founder & Brand Ambassador

OPI Fifty Shades of Grey
L – R: My Silk Tie, Romantically Involved, Embrace The Gray

I wanted to wear all three shades all at once (because I don’t have time to do them separately – LOL), so I created an ombrè look using Embrace The Gray as a base and My Silk Tie on the tip, and one feature nail using Romantically Involved.

OPI Fifty Shades of Grey (Embrace The Gray, My Silk Tie, Romantically Involved)

Please excuse my hideous cuticles! Typical life with baby – I rarely have time to tidy them up. I don’t even groom my brows anymore!

OPI “Romantically Involved”

“I’m in a deep relationship with this luscious crème red.”

This is the only red shade in the collection and it’s a warm, earth-toned red. It’s got a crème texture with a pure, glossy finish – no shimmers, metallics, glitter – just pure color.

OPI “Romantically Involved”

Application was easy and the rather thin brush made it easy to get to the corners without creating a mess. It is completely opaque after two coats. I tried using a third coat just to see if it would darken the shade but the tone remained the same even after the third coat, meaning it reaches its maximum opacity and tone after two coats, which is great!

L – R: OPI “Romantically Involved”, MECCA Cosmetica “Song”,
Deborah Lippmann “Lady Is A Tramp”, Sally Hansen Miracle Gel “Dig Fig”.

I tried finding similar shades in my collection and found three that are quite similar. MECCA Cosmetica’s Song is much more orange and light. Deborah Lippmann’s Lady Is A Tramp is a tad lighter and cooler toned, but is the most similar. Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in Dig Fig is darker and has more brown hues in it.

OPI “Embrace The Gray”

“Let this chic, moody gray crème become one with you.”

This is another crème textured one and is a plain, bluish mid-tone gray. I think this type of gray would suit any skintone without making the skin look dull. It’s a very versatile and neutral color. I love it so much.

It’s completely opaque after two coats too and an additional coat did not change the color.

OPI “Embrace The Gray”

I don’t own a lot of grays because when it comes to polishes, I’m more into brighter, colorful, fun ones! (Complete opposite when it comes to makeup, though!)

So these are the only grays I have in my collection. There’s nothing comparable to it in my collection, which is why I love it!

OPI “My Silk Tie”

“This silky, gleaming silver has got me all tied up.”

This beauty is a pure silver shade and is the only one with a metallic, chrome finish. It’s so beautiful! However, application can be a bit tricky. If you’re not fast enough, brush strokes can be very visible. It’s better to apply one thick layer in two quick strokes rather than a few thin layers with multiple strokes.

I love how, even when applied with a sponge, the payoff is still amazing!

OPI “My Silk Tie”

I don’t currently own anything like it in my collection, which is why I love this one the most. I love how soft the ombre looks on my nails!

So, I think this collection is so lovely – OPI had done a fantastic job in making shades of gray captivating instead of boring. I love the quality, variety of shades and textures, and its names (although I would’ve loved to see a shade named “Lucky Charlie Tango” haha). I think they represent the movie well.

As for the drying time for these, I actually used the Seche Vite Top Coat, and I think the top coat is the reason why they dry out so fast. I could start moving about, doing stuff without worrying about budging my polishes after about a whole minute or two.

These retail for AU$19.95 each, or AU$29.95 for a pack of all 6 shades in mini sizes. They are available in selected MYER, David Jones, Sephora stores and selected salons.

Well, as with all my nail polish reviews, I will be updating this post to report on how the polishes held up after a few days (or week, I hope!). But so far, I’m loving it. So, stay tuned!

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Favorites, Makeup, Skincare

January 2014 Beauty Favorites

February 8, 2015

Stephanie Casidy

Hey everyone!

January has been a wonderful month – I’ve been able to try so many new products and am glad to share with you some of my favorites!

I actually had so much more, but had to cut it down to these 13 items.

Here’s my full face of makeup using all these things (except the Covergirl foundation because I obviously can’t wear two foundations at a time!).

Read on for mini reviews and swatches galore!

1. Anastasia Beverly Hills Pomeade

I don’t know why I waited so long to get my hands on these. I just thought they were hyped up for no reason, but boy was I wrong. So glad I got this while I was in the States. This has totally changed my brow game – my brows have never been more on-point!

Still natural looking because I brush the excess off and disperse them with a spoole, but it’s much sharper and precise than usual. Long lasting too! I’ve been using this nonstop ever since I got this.

2. Cargo One Base Concealer + Foundation

The fact that this is a concealer and foundation in one really interested me because as a new mom, I rarely have time to do my makeup. Heck, I sometimes don’t even have time to brush my teeth! LOL.

Cargo One Base Concealer + Foundation OB-03

So this really does the trick for me. It’s super lightweight but the coverage is buildable! Check out the swatch below – it really isn’t as thick as foundation, but evens out the skin really well, and has enough coverage to conceal dark circles.

Cargo One Base Concealer + Foundation OB-03

Perfect for new mommies and if you’re often in a rush! Perfect for travel too!

My current travel essentials!
The Cargo One Base Concealer + Foundation is a staple because it’s two products in one!

I highly recommend this!

3. Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze & Glow

I remember being very skeptical about the bronze shade when I did a first impressions review of my Charlotte Tilbury haul here. Again, I was so wrong – I shouldn’t have doubted the Sculpt shade.

Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze & Glow

I was skeptical because it seemed too light, I didn’t think it showed up on my skin well. But that’s actually the catch! It’s not supposed to be too visibly orange or red or brown. It’s supposed to be a “natural shadow” color.

The Sculpt shade is perfect for contouring because it’s a greyish brown. It’s perfectly toned – not orange at all, and not too reddish or muddy. If you see my photo up there, you can notice my jawline is slightly contoured, but it’s the perfect “shadow” shade.

It literally looks like shadow! And I love the fact that it lasts all day!

4. Cle de Peau Silky Cream Foundation

I got this during the Shiseido Sale, check out my haul here. I have been using this foundation nonstop ever since I got this. This is my second tube and I don’t think I will ever stop repurchasing this.

Cle de Peau Silky Cream Foundation B30

B30 is the perfect shade for me when blended out well. My skin undertone is neutral, and even though this foundation leans more toward the pink side, it actually suits me really well. It brightens up my complexion without giving a white cast, and it really feels and looks like skin.

But the main reason why I love this so much is the consistency and finish. It’s literally “silky” smooth, and doesn’t feel thick although it’s named “Creamy”. It seems to have light coverage, but is actually very buildable.

Cle de Peau Silky Cream Foundation B30

I have so many other open foundations in my stash now and I know I should circulate my foundations – but I just can’t!

Another thing I love about this is that it doesn’t break me out or clog my pores even though I use it every day.

5. Cle de Peau Enriched Lip Luminizer 202

Again, I got this during the Shiseido Sale! Check out my first impressions/mini review here.

This is my current purse lippie staple. I never go out of the house without this.

Cle de Peau Enriched Lip Luminizer 202

It’s a very wearable rosy pink shade – easy to slap on without risks of it bleeding out or looking messy. Its slippery, balmy texture also makes it very moisturizing.

My lips are very sensitive and easily chap whenever I wear lipstick, but this doesn’t make my lips chap/flake at all!

6. Clinique Chubby Stick Cheek Color Balm

OMG – this is probably one of my many blushes that I own that cannot live without.

I’ve been trying out a lot of blushes lately, and I don’t know why, most of them just seem too cool-toned for me that it sort of darkens my whole complexion. When I don’t have time to fix them, this Clinique Chubby Stick is my lifesaver. I just wipe off a bit of the blush I was wearing with a dry cotton pad, and swipe this Clinique Chubby Stick on!

This 02 Robust Rhubarb shade is a peachy pink shade and has a warm undertone. It automatically warms and brightens up my whole complexion!

Swatches: Josie Maran Argan Infinity Lip & Cheek Cream Limitless Pink and
Clinique Chubby Stick Cheek Color Balm 02 Rhobust Rhubarb

It lasts more than 8 hours on my skin, and has a very velvety (kinda powdery) smooth finish, which I love. It isn’t patchy either, which is a major plus for cream blushes!

7. Covergirl Ready Set Gorgeous Fresh Complexion Oil Free Foundation

I purchased this foundation in Vegas during the New Year, and immediately fell in love with it! It’s oil free so it’s perfect for hot, summer weather, but it’s also suitable to be worn during winter because it doesn’t dry out the skin. I guess it’s suitable for all skin types!

This does not oxidize, which is great because once you blend it out on the skin it will remain the exact same color throughout the day.

It also:

Has great oil control
Lasts up to 12 hours (set with powder)
Feels lightweight on the skin
Matte finish but doesn’t dry out the skin
Has a cream texture, but not thick at all
Has light to medium coverage

Covergirl Ready Set Gorgeous Fresh Complexion Oil Free Foundation 210

This shade is tad too yellow on me, which is why I’ve been using the Cle de Peau Silky Cream Foundation nonstop ever since I got it towards the end of the month. But I love both so much, this definitely has got to be my favorite drugstore foundation EVER!

So if you’re looking for a great affordable foundation, you definitely have to give this a try!

8. Josie Maran Argan Infinity Lip and Cheek Cream – Limitless Pink

This is also another current purse lippe staple of mine! I can’t handle how beautiful the color and finish is!

I got this from the Josie Maran Winter Dreams Argan Color Collection from Sephora.

Josie Maran Winter Dreams Argan Color Collection

The texture seems to be a combination of oil and cream when you first squeeze it out – you can see the oil separating from the color below.

Josie Maran Argan Infinity Lip & Cheek Cream Limitless Pink

Once blended out it gives the cheeks a very dewy, natural flush. See the swatch above (with Clinique Chubby Stick).

However, I don’t actually use this for the cheeks – I mainly use this for my lips!

Josie Maran Argan Infinity Lip & Cheek Cream – Limitless Pink

I love the naturally glossy finish look it gives, and the pink MLBB shade is just perfect for everyday use. I was using this on top of the Cle de Peau Enriched Lip Luminizer 202 in my photo at the very beginning of this blogpost.

9. Josie Maran Coconut Watercolor Eye Shadow – Rio de Rose Gold

I also got this in the Josie Maran Winter Dreams Argan Color Collection and I seriously don’t think I can live without this product!

I’m a big believer in using cream shadows as a base before using powder shadows to ensure longevity, and this “watercolor” is just the most amazing thing ever.

Josie Maran Coconut Watercolor Eye Shadow – Rio de Rose Gold

It comes in a transparent glass bottle and the pigments don’t mix in with the water until you shake it up. Once the bottle is shaken well and the pigments are mixed with the water, twist the cap open and it comes with a doe foot applicator.

Josie Maran Coconut Watercolor Eye Shadow – Rio de Rose Gold

Simply apply this lightly on the eyelids and blend it out with a clean finger (or a brush – both hair and synthetic works!). See below for the swatches – left one is first application without blending, the one on the right is after it’s blended out with a finger.

Josie Maran Coconut Watercolor Eye Shadow – Rio de Rose Gold

I was wearing this as a base in my photos in this post. It acts as a perfect base for all my looks because this particular shade is very neutral. The sheen and 3D-like effect it gives is beautiful beyond description! It lasts the whole day even without primer during hot, summer days!

I will definitely be getting more shades from this range!

10. Kevyn Aucoin The Celestial Skin Liquid Lighting

Because I have dry skin, I always aim to dew-up my skin every single day because dewy skin seems more youthful looking. So I’m always on the hunt for awesome highlighting/luminizing products.

I’m so glad I ended up buying this. I’ve already got the powder version of this, and I really liked it, so I was wondering if the liquid version would make the highlight look a bit more natural because I can mix it in with foundation…

Kevyn Aucoin The Celestial Skin Liquid Lighting

Just look at that glow!

Kevyn Aucoin The Celestial Skin Liquid Lighting

I love that I can mix this up with my foundation, and even when worn alone, it isn’t patchy at all, unlike most liquid highlighters when worn on its own.

I’ve also tried the Josie Maran liquid highlighter from the set, and it seems a bit patchy and obviously artificial on the skin. So the fact that this has a very smooth, skin-like finish really makes me appreciate it despite the price! 😛

11. Marc Jacobs Beauty Style Eye-Con No. 7 Plush Shadow – 206 The Lolita

UGH! I don’t need to say much, just look at those shadows!

Marc Jacobs Beauty Style Eye-Con No. 7 Plush Shadow – 206 The Lolita

I love love love the pigmentation, shade and finish variety, texture and blendability, creaminess, pigmentation and color-payoff, and of course PACKAGING!

Marc Jacobs Beauty Style Eye-Con No. 7 Plush Shadow – 206 The Lolita

In my eye look above, I wore the Josie Maran Coconut Watercolor Eye Shadow in Rio de Rose Gold as a base, and topped if off with the Marc Jacobs The Lolita palette shadows – furthest right color as an all-over wash of color on the lids, second from the right color in the middle of the lids, inner lower lashline and inner corners as highlight, darkest brown shade as contour on the outer corners, and the second from left color as a skin-color blending shade.

I added a bit of blue in the outer corners, and that’s using the Smashbox Double Exposure Palette, which I am in the process of reviewing.

12. Tarte CC Undereye Corrector

I’ve struggled with dark undereyes all my life! Genetics, hyperpigmentation, and lack of sleep are not to blame because the culprit behind my dark undereyes is my eye shape – the darkness is mostly caused by shadow! The skin underneath my eyes are also very thin so my dark circles are a bit bluish. So I’m born with dark undereyes and sadly there’s nothing I can do about it.

However, this color corrector has been a lifesaver. I use the Medium shade and it has a very peachy, orange undetone and it corrects my undereyes really well.

This is not concealer so I don’t use it on its own because it acts just to cancel out the bluish hue, so I usually top it off with my favorite concealer, the Cle de Peau concealer. The Cle de Peau concealer has a drier finish, and this color corrector has a rather tacky finish, so the Cle de Peau concealer sticks really well on it. It can last the whole day if I set it with powder!

13. Vera Mona Color Switch Duo

People are becoming more and more inventive these days and I am just beyond grateful for the existence of this perfect lil’ helper of mine.

Vera Mona Color Switch Duo

So the outer (black) sponge is basically a sponge that can completely remove eyeshadow color when you stroke/swirl your brush on it. This makes eye makeup application a breeze because I don’t need to constantly wash my brush when I need to use it for a different color! I usually have to have tons of eye brushes out when doing a colorful, complicated eye look – but with this around, I really only need a couple of brushes out! No need to worry about not having a clean brush!

The tiny white sponge in the middle is a sponge that you can soak in water, and use it for wet makeup application. Simply dip your brush in the wet, white sponge to pick up any eyeshadow you want with a wet brush!

PHEW! That was a lot!

Hope you guys enjoyed that, and hope you had a lovely January!

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