I’ve decided that I will be adding other things to my monthly favourites posts; I’ll add food/drinks, clothing and entertainment!
Here are this month’s beauty faves:
The BCL Spa Sugar Scrub Lavender + Mint and BCL Spa Dead Sea Salt Soak Lavender + Mint are amazing. Both have made my skin feel so soft and the lavender + mint scent is fresh and clean. The sugar scrub is fine and not too coarse on the skin, and it dissolved in a warm bath. The sea salt soak was so relaxing. I don’t know what it is about bath salts, but they always make the bathwater feel silky. I would definitely recommend picking up the spa set if you’re into at-home pampering! I was lucky enough to receive the 4-piece set in a giveaway I won from @DannyCoHair.
Sonia Roselli Water Balm (read my review) is amazing and I can’t wait to try more of her products! It’s a multi-use product and it feels so good on the skin. I use it as a moisturizer and primer.
I’ve really been liking the Tarte Tarteist Creamy Matte Lip Paint in Birthday Suit. Sadly, I need to declutter it because it’s drying out. But I really liked the shade and the feel of it. Sometimes, I would top it with some gloss, which would lighten the shade a bit. This is the shade Birthday Suit, the mini that everyone got from Sephora for their birthday gift last year.
I went to Indie Expo Canada and I picked up a holo nail polish called The Deep End by Colors by Llarowe. It’s described as a vivid turquoise based multi chrome that shifts from turquoise to green to blue to purple to pink with added holo sparkle. I really wanted a blue-turquoise mermaid-y nail polish and The Deep End was my fave of the turquoise holo nail polishes at the Indie Expo. I swatched them on a nail wheel (as you can see above); one coat on the left and two coats on the right. I love that it’s holographic, so it doesn’t have chunks in it and therefore the nails feel nice and smooth. I love glitter nail polish, but I don’t like that you can feel the texture of the sparkles until you apply a top coat and even then, sometimes it still feels a bit bumpy.
I tried Meghan Markle’s zucchini bolognese recipe. I had seen it on Buzzfeed and it sounded interesting, so I thought I’d give it a try. They call it a ‘bolognese’ because you cook the zucchini for 4 hours (similar to slow-cooking a bolognese sauce). I thought it was pretty good, but I think I would prefer if the zucchini still had some crunch and kept it’s shape. I like the recipe and would use it again, but instead cook the zucchini for a portion of the time. Also, I’m a girl who likes to eat meat, so I would probably have some roast chicken on the side or even add some into the pasta.
I’ve been enjoying the President’s Choice Blue Menu Pink Grapefruit Sparkling Water, it’s refreshing and it has no calories, no sugar and no sodium. I don’t usually like flavoured water, but this one I don’t mind. It’s great if you want something carbonated, but don’t want to drink pop.
Have you ever watched a beauty YouTuber review a product and they rave about it so you have to go buy it too? Or read a beauty blogger and saw swatches of the prettiest highlighter that you had to get? Well, there have been quite a lot of products that I’ve purchased over the past two years because I saw a cool video or I watched/read reviews. I’ll let you know if I liked the product and if I’d repurchase.
Cosrx Acne Pimple Master Patches (read my review) – I love these, but I kind of wish they had different packages for different sizes. Sometimes I have a ton of the smallest size left over until I get a teeny, tiny whitehead.
Repurchase? Absolutely!!
Cosrx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid – I bought this last year and don’t know if it was working that well. I had to stop because my skin was reacting to something I was using.
Repurchase? Probably not.
Cosrx Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser – I quite liked this cleanser and it didn’t dry out my skin too much from the salicylic acid.
Repurchase? Yes.
CUCNZN Blackhead Remover Suction Black Peeling Mask – This is kind of messy. If you put too much on, it can drip. It’s very hard to wash off your hands and clothes. The best way is to let it dry and then peel it.
Repurchase? No, I’d rather try a Biore Pore strip for the face.
Essence I Love Colour Intensifying Eyeshadow Base – I haven’t put this through testing yet, but I like the formula and I have noticed that it does intensify eyeshadows.
Repurchase? Yes.
Essence Volume Stylist 18h Lash Extension Mascara – This mascara is like $5 and it’s great! It does dry out fairly quickly, but it’s not as painful as buying a $30 tube and having it dry out on you.
Repurchase? Probably. I just bought two other Essence mascaras to see how they compare.
Finishing Touch Flawless Facial Hair Remover (read my review) – It removes hair pretty well and I like the light it has attached when you turn it on.
Repurchase? I’d get the rechargeable one if I get another one.
Garnier All-in-One Cleansing Micellar Water – Originally, I was like, “why does everyone love this water? Isn’t it just water?” Oh, how wrong I was to think that. I love this stuff!
Repurchase? Already have!
Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask (read my review)- I love the smell of this. It smells so fresh and feel so nice on the skin.
Repurchase? Yes.
Innisfree No Sebum Mineral Powder – This powder is very finely milled and comes with a cute little puff. I’m not a huge fan of the mint smell, but it sets and mattifies my makeup nicely.
Repurchase? Possibly.
L’Oreal Voluminous Lash Paradise (read my review) – I compared this to the Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara and I’m sad to say that I’m not a fan of either one.
Repurchase? No.
Makeup Eraser The Original Makeup Eraser (read my review) – I saw this in a BuzzFeed video, I believe and had to see if it really worked. I really like it because it’s so soft.
Repurchase? I bought a dupe that was a 4-pack, so it’ll take me a while, but I’d repurchase when I need to.
Maybelline FaceStudio Master Chrome Metallic Highlighter (read my review) – This is a beautiful highlighter that gives that wet, metallic look.
Repurchase? Yes, I really want some of the other shades.
Maybelline Fit Me Foundation – I’ve tried the Matte + Poreless and the Hydrate + Smooth, I preferred the Hydrate + Smooth because it gave a dewy finish.
Repurchase? No. No more drugstore foundations for me.
Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara – I read that the Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, uses this (don’t know if she still does) and I had to try it for myself.
Repurchase? I bought this, but haven’t tried it yet.
Maybelline Super Stay Better Skin Concealer + Corrector – This smells like chemicals to me.
Repurchase? No, I’d rather get the Maybelline Fit Me Concealer.
Maybelline Super Stay Better Skin Skin-Transforming Foundation – This was the first drugstore foundation I got. I bought the wrong shade and back then, I didn’t know what primer was or that you had to wet the sponge. Knowing what I know now, I could probably get a better match and get a more beautiful application, but no more drugstore foundations for me.
Repurchase? No. I didn’t love the smell of this.
Nars Sheer Glow Foundation – If you read my Mid-Year Inventory on Foundations (click here), you’ll know that I’m looking to find high-end foundations with different finishes and coverage. I didn’t love this one and I’d rather get the Lancome Miracle Cushion Foundation as my sheer foundation.
Repurchase? No.
NYX Setting Spray (Matte) – I think I’d rather pay a little more for a better quality setting spray. I don’t know if this helped a whole lot, but it made my eyes water.
Repurchase? No.
Physician’s Formula Butter Highlighter – Why pay $50 when you can pay a fraction of that for a gorgeous, butter highlighter?
Repurchase? Absolutely!! I need more shades!!!
Physician’s Formula Murumuru Butter Butter Bronzer – Blends like a dream and smells so good (which is surprising because I’m not a huge fan of scented things!!)
Repurchase? Definitely!!
Pixi Glow Tonic – I got a pack that had a travel-size bottle of this and I will definitely be picking up a bigger size when I’m done my current toner.
Repurchase? Definitely!! (UPDATE: I think I’m allergic to witch hazel which means I can no longer use this).
Pixi Hydrating Milky Mist (read my review) – I love Pixi and it smells so good and keeps the face hydrated.
Repurchase? YES!
Pixi Peel & Polish (read my review) – I liked this, but it smells like paint to me and I’ve found other brands I like better.
Repurchase? Probably not.
Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge (read my review) – This sponge gets huge when it’s damp and I love that it has a flat side. I bought this at Winners (4 pack for $20) which was cheaper than at the drugstore.
Repurchase? Absolutely! At Winners though.
Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler – I didn’t know what I was missing until I bought this eyelash curler. Previously, I’ve used a Tweezerman, Revlon and Sephora lash curler, but this one beats all of those.
Repurchase? When I need to buy a new one, yes!! Although I hear that the Shiseido one is good too and you can buy just the refills for that.
Wet N Wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder – So pretty!! I wish I could get more shades, but Wet N Wild is hard to find in Canada and Rexall only has a selection of Wet N Wild products.
Repurchase? If I can get my hands on it, yes!!
A lot of the products on this list, I would repurchase. For most of these, I heard more than a few good reviews, which made me buy them. So, it’s no surprise that I love them too.
What products have you bought because of a YouTuber’s recommendations?
Continuing with “Goals” posts, I thought I’d one on style. For both the makeup and style goals, they aren’t just for 2019, but they are goals I’m setting myself going forward.
Ever since my interest in makeup went up, my clothes buying went down because I gotta save somewhere! So, I don’t think I will need to be instituting an annual budget for clothes. Unlike my makeup buying habits, I wouldn’t say I’m as impulsive with clothes because it’s different. Yes, I’ve bought clothes I didn’t necessarily need, but with clothes, you can try them on and make sure they fit right and for the most part, you can return them. With makeup (especially drugstore makeup that doesn’t have a tester), you’re just buying it based on what you may have read or heard.
GOAL #1 | Buy more colours and patterns
If you looked into my closet, you’d see darkness because most of my wardrobe consists of dark blue or black with a touch of colour. Some day, my wish is to have a walk-in closet and it would be really boring to just see walls of black and blue.
GOAL #2 | Buy better quality
This doesn’t necessarily mean ‘buy more expensive’ because I can still buy good quality clothes for less at places like Winners and Marshalls. My style is fairly classic and plain, so it’s not like I need the latest jeans or blouses- I’m fine with jeans that were released in 2015.
Buying better quality is especially important for buying jewellery for me now. A lot of things I’ve bought from Forever21 or Ardene/Claire’s have tarnished. I think I may have gotten an allergic reaction from a ring that I always used to wear. You can definitely tell the difference in appearance- better quality looks super shiny and actually looks silver/gold/rose gold. I love my pieces from Stella & Dot (check out my post).
I think it’s time to buy better quality bras too. A lot of the time, I got to La Senza to buy bras that are on sale for less than $15. Most of the time when I’m getting dressed, I reach for the same ones. I might as well spend a bit more on an everyday bra and have fewer instead of having 30 bras where I don’t wear 20.
GOAL #3 | No more shopping at stores like Forever21
This goes with buying better quality clothes, it’s time to shop my age. Once I passed my 21st birthday and after graduating university, I felt like I should stop buying clothes at Forever21. I already stopped doing this a few years ago when my mom kept telling me to buy better quality clothes. Unless I’m making a DIY Hallowe’en costume, I won’t be stepping foot into a Forever21 store while shopping for myself from now on.
GOAL #4 | Declutter
I was reorganizing my room and went through my jewellery to declutter/donate. I am a hoarder; I keep a lot of things because I think, “what if I need this later?” I have a whole dresser full of loungewear and pajamas. I think it’s time I go through some clothes and donate the ones I don’t wear.
GOAL #5 | Build a Classic Wardrobe with Pops of Colour
I’ve read numerous articles on building capsule wardrobes and classic wardrobes. I love clothes, shoes, bags and makeup. I don’t think I could ever have a minimalist collection of anything. The items in the Minimalist collections are great starting points, but I want more. For the different articles on building a classic/capsule wardrobe, I own most of the ones they have, i.e. little black dress, knee-high boots, trench coat, dark jeans, black sweater, etc.
Items I want to add to my wardrobe:
Plain white t-shirt (I don’t know why I don’t have any)
A coloured blazer (maybe red or blue)
Watch (I like Rosefield watches)
Patent nude pointed toe pump
Wrap/waterfall coat (in black, blue or maybe even bordeaux)- waterfall style is like that drape-y type of coat
Classic trench coat (I have a classic beige/tan trench, but it’s a thinner material, it’s not like a water-resistant ones from Burberry/Coach)
Comfortable flat ankle boots
my cousins wear the Blundstone Chelsea ankle boots, but I don’t think I could pull those off
Black riding boots
I know ‘comfort brands’ are known for being kind of old lady-ish (i.e. Clarks), but when I was working at Hudson’s Bay, I saw a lot of nice riding boots by brands like Naturalizer and Rockport
Designer bag & wallet (maybe a Michael Kors or Tory Burch wallet, and I dream of a YSL crossbody bag, but those are like $3000)
I don’t think it’s unreasonable to spend a few hundred on a nice bag and wallet. I take good care of my things, so they’ll last a long time. I have a Longchamp tote that I’ve had for 4 or 5 years and it’s in pristine condition. I’ve used it as my main purse for 2 years now. I love my Longchamp tote, but it’d be nice to get a bag with a shoulder strap so I don’t have to worry about it falling off my shoulder
Some day, I would love to own a pair of Gianvito Rossi pumps (Kate Middleton wears these), Christian Louboutins and Jimmy Choos. Also dreaming about the Patent Nude Valentino Rockstuds, but we’ll see if those go out of style since they’re trendy. They’re very expensive, but I’ve heard multiple ladies call them ‘the most comfortable pump they’ve owned’
I’ve decided to compile a list of what beauty products I personally plan to SAVE or SPLURGE on. I’ll also have some products where I’ll be IN BETWEEN– which means I’ll either buy a mix of both high-end and drugstore or I’ll buy products that aren’t super expensive, but not super cheap either.
Skincare- IN BETWEEN
I was reading articles on which beauty products to save and splurge on and a few said to save on skincare. I think I will mostly save because there are some great products found at the drugstore. If I want some luxe items, I can always get samples from Sephora and Nordstrom without breaking the bank. I do love the Sonia Roselli Water Balm though (read my review), so I will continue to splurge on that because it’s a multi-use product.
Primers- SPLURGE
You need a good base for your makeup and that starts with primer.
Foundations- SPLURGE
More expensive foundations just look and smell better than drugstore ones (for the most part).
Concealers/Colour Correctors- IN BETWEEN
I think splurge on a good spot concealer I can wear without foundation. There are some good under eye concealers from the drugstore.
Setting/Finishing Sprays/Powders & Face Mists- IN BETWEEN
I think a mix of both is okay.
Makeup Brushes-SPLURGE
When I first started getting into makeup, I didn’t want to spend a lot on brushes, so I bought some on Amazon. They’re very soft and performed pretty well, but once I bought better quality ones, I could see the difference in my makeup application.
Makeup Sponges- SAVE
I think it’s kind of crazy to buy a $20 sponge. I have never bought a beauty blender, so I don’t know if it performs better than a cheaper sponge, but I feel like they’re all quite similar; some may be denser than others, but they all blend the same, don’t they?
Bronzers- SAVE
I love the Physician’s Formula one and it blends even better than the high end ones I’ve tried.
Blushes- IN BETWEEN
I think I might splurge on a good, matte blush I can use every day because blushes last so long. I love the Milani ones that have shimmer and I really want to try a Physician’s Formula one.
Highlighters- IN BETWEEN
Similar to blushes, I might splurge on 1 high end highlighter and then the rest of the collection will be drugstore brands. For the ones I own, the drugstore ones look prettier than my higher end ones (without having to wet them).
Brows- IN BETWEEN
I’m kind of torn because I like the NYX Micro Brow pencil, but that pencil lasted so long that maybe it’s worth it to splurge on a brow pencil. I will definitely splurge on brow gel though and get the Benefit Gimme Brow.
Eyeshadows- SPLURGE
I’ve noticed a difference in how my eyeshadow looks when using higher end ones especially with the fallout. I think I will invest in a few high end palettes- that have a good selection of neutral mattes and shimmery shades.
Eyeliners- IN BETWEEN
Similar to blushes, eyeliner lasts me a long time (I prefer pencil liners), so maybe I should splurge.
Mascara- SAVE
As much as I love some of the high-end deluxe samples of mascaras, there are so many drugstore ones I love that are a fraction of the price. Especially when you should dispose of it after using for a few months, it’s not worth it to pay $30 (unless you only own 1 mascara, then maybe it’s worth it, but I like to have several).
Lipsticks, Liners and Glosses/Tints- IN BETWEEN
I think I’ll get 1 or 2 for each of the 3 types (lipstick, liner, gloss/tint), but save on the rest.
Makeup Removers- IN BETWEEN
I like Simple makeup wipes and Garnier Micellar Water, but I really like Clinique’s Cleansing Balm. So, a mix of both.
Perfumes- SPLURGE
When I was in high school, I used to use body sprays from Victoria’s Secret, but no more of that. I have two signature scents at the moment (1 for spring/summer, 1 for fall/winter) and I also have one that’s a bit more spicy that I don’t wear daily.
Nail Polish- IN BETWEEN
I think I’ll find a good, wine red and a neutral to splurge on, but buy brands like OPI and Essie for the rest of my collection.
When I was doing my mid-year makeup inventory, I realized just how much makeup I had. It’s kind of ridiculous how much makeup I’ve accumulated in the past two years. 2016 was when I got more into makeup and it was only last year that started buying products like highlighter and bronzer. I went through my collection and counted how much I have of each type of product. I didn’t want to do a mid-year makeup inventory on all of them because let’s be honest, it would’ve taken a long time to swatch and write a mini review for each one. Especially when I don’t necessarily love all of the products I own.
I’ve decided to set some goals for myself in terms of buying makeup going forward. As I was doing my makeup inventory, I decluttered a few products that were past their expiry date and/or I just wasn’t using (basically just taking up space). Here are some goals that I have decided to apply:
Goal #1 | For primers, foundations, eyeshadows and makeup brushes – only buy high end ones
Foundations
Find a few favourite ones with different finishes (powder, cushion, sheer coverage, medium coverage)
For liquid foundations- I need to have sampled it a few times and put it through a testing period (like I did with the Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation- read my review) before I take the plunge and buy it.
Test them out in-store and see how they look in natural lighting and how it wears for the day
For the other makeup products, I feel like a mix of high end and drugstore are acceptable. There are some amazing drugstore products that I absolutely love and drugstore foundations are great, but I have trouble finding shade matches and there aren’t always testers in store.
Goal #2 | Cut down on impulse buying
I’ll admit that 50% of the time, I am an impulse buyer (especially if there’s a sale). Luckily, most of the items I’ve bought on impulse were okay.
Goal #3 | Read or watch 3 (or more) positive reviews before making a purchase
I know this isn’t the best way to tell if I will like something because I might not like something that someone else loves, but it will help cut down the impulse buying too. I’ve bought a few duds (that were planned purchases) because YouTube or Instagram made me buy it (*cough* L’Oréal Lash Paradise *cough*). Before buying a product from now on (especially a drugstore item because you can’t return it once it’s been opened), I will check out some reviews online. Usually, I look at Influenster to see what it’s rating out of 5 is and if it’s rated on their list (i.e. Lash Paradise, the non-waterproof one, is rated #1 in mascaras and 4.56/5). Personally, it’s not my #1 mascara, but I don’t hate it.
Goal #4 | Keep Track of My Makeup Purchases and Set an Annual Makeup Budget
This sounds kind of scary, but I think I should set one. Last year, I became a VIB Rouge member at Sephora and I have no idea how that happened. The majority was skincare or makeup tools, but there was a fair share of makeup which is surprising because a lot of my makeup is from the drugstore or Winners. For a lot of products (like makeup brushes or foundation), they may seem expensive, but they last a long time. The initial cost may sting, but once you have it, you don’t need to buy more for a while.
For my blog, I have a monthly budget ($25) to spend on products that I buy for the blog. I prefer to get drugstore products because that’s the most accssible to everyone. I mean, there are tons of beauty lovers who are students- they can’t necessarily afford to get a Dior foundation or a high end palette.
GOAL #5 | A Streamlined Makeup Collection
I was going to plan on a Minimalist Makeup Collection, but after writing the numbers down, I wouldn’t consider what I plan to be a Minimalist Collection. So, we’ll go with a streamlined collection of what I have now. I want to find some favourites that I can always rely on so that I can just buy good, high end products (foundations, concealers, etc.) and not worry about buying all these different products to see what works with my skin type.
I’ve already shared some of my makeup collection in my mid-year makeup inventory. So, I thought I’d share the numbers with you for the rest of my products. Some of my numbers in this list may be different than the mid-year makeup inventory. This is because I was only counting the products that I had opened at the time. Since then, I have opened a few things and gotten a few deluxe samples. Please keep in mind that not all products are full-sized, but I still counted them as ‘1’. So, here are the inventories for each category:
Primers: 12 (includes an under eye primer and eyeshadow primers)
Foundations: 13
Concealers/Colour Correctors: 11
Setting/Finishing Powders & Face Mists: 5
Illuminating Powders/Creams: 4
Bronzers: 4
Blushes: 13
Highlighters: 14
Brow pencils: 3
Eyeshadows: 37
Eyeliners: 12
Mascaras: 6
Lipstick: 25
Lip Liners: 7
Lip Glosses/Tints: 10
Makeup Removers: 10
I know these aren’t makeup, but I’m going to include them too:
Perfume: 5
Nail Polish: 43
I was going to total the whole number of products, but some are double-counted i.e. Bobbi Brown palette has blush, highlighter, bronzer and eyeshadow. Give or take, there are 200 items.
NEW MAKEUP GOALS & FAVOURITES
I want to streamline my makeup so that I don’t have 200 items in my drawers. I only have so much space in my room if you include makeup, skincare, hair and nail products. The following numbers are what I hope my collection will go down to once I find favourites in each. Under each category, I have included favourites that I think will be included in my Minimalist Collection.
Primers: it’s hard to say a number for this one because you want different primers for different uses (mattifying, illuminating, hydrating, eyeshadow, etc.). I’ll say less than 10 for sure!
Foundations: 6 at the most (that should be enough for different finishes and coverage)
Concealers/Colour Correctors: 5
Setting/Finishing Sprays/Powders & Face Mists: 5
Illuminating Powders/Creams: 2
Bronzers: 2
Blushes: 3 (1 with shimmer, 1 peachy, 1 pink)
Highlighters: This is hard to decide because there are so many amazing highlighters out there that are different shades and they can double as eyeshadows (6?)
Brows: 3 (2 pencils, 1 gel)
Eyeshadows: This is hard to decide too because singles count as 1. I will say that I want at least 2-3 good palettes with matte neutral shades and shimmery shades and I like cream shadows and sticks, so maybe 4-5 of those.
Eyeliners: 5
Mascaras: 3
Lipstick: 10
Lip Liners: 2
Lip Glosses/Tints: 3
Makeup Removers: 3
Perfumes: 3
Nail Polish: 5
For all of the categories, they’re estimates of what I think I should own and adding all of those up, it’s about 80 products. So, my goal for next year is to cut my collection in half and maybe I can aim for an even smaller collection for 2020.
When I heard that Dior was coming out with a collection that was geared towards a younger demographic, I was intrigued. I heard it would be a little more affordable and trendier than the classic Dior you think of when you hear the name. I have been looking into getting one of the foundations and I was settled on Diorskin Star Fluid Foundation. But, when I heard that the new Backstage Collection was going to be releasing 40 foundation shades (thank you, Rihanna- I know a lot of other brands had a good shade selection before, but it wasn’t until Fenty Beauty released 40 that other brands started to realize, “hey, we should be more inclusive too”). It’s especially hard to find your shade with a high end brand like Dior. The Diorskin Star Foundation barely has 20 shades, so it’s nice to see that the Backstage Face & Body Foundation has 40 shades that include different undertones.
The Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation comes in a translucent plastic bottle (so you can see how much product is left) that has a matte feel and it has a squeeze bottle spout. It’s not like the bottle is squishy, but you can squeeze it so more foundation comes out. The plastic spout looks like it can be removed easily, so you can take off the top and use a spatula to get the last drop when you’re almost done. The silver cap twists off and when you put the cap on, it kind of locks in place so you know it’s twisted on properly. The foundation is quite fluid and when I first opened the bottle, the liquid spurted out a bit.
The foundation has a matte finish with medium-buildable coverage. It’s lightly scented like the other Dior foundations- I actually like it. It’s a refreshing scent that you can’t smell once you put it on your face. With the Diorskin Star Foundation, my shade is 020, so I decided to wing it and order 2N for this foundation. I think it’s a pretty good match for blindly choosing one. I was worried at first because I watched a few reviews and they said it oxidized, so I thought I should’ve chose a lighter one.
A foundation for the face and body in 40 shades with a natural, matte finish and medium, buildable coverage that’s waterproof and sweat-resistant.
Dior Backstage Face and Body Foundation is the Dior makeup artists’ secret weapon to create a flawless, runway-ready complexion for both the face and body. This waterproof formula fuses with skin, resisting extreme conditions like workout sessions, water, and even high temperatures and humid environments. It can also be used to camouflage minor imperfections on the neck, shoulders, legs, or anywhere else.
Sweatproof?
I’ve been wearing it in this Toronto weather (pretty hot) and it’s hard to tell if it’s sweat or the oils on my t-zone, but it has been breaking up in the t-zone area.
Waterproof?
It’s waterproof enough to stay put after being put underwater. I splashed some water on my face and it didn’t come off. Also, the foundation on my hand was still on after running it under water and rubbing it lightly. So, if you were to get caught in the rain, you’d be safe, but I was able to remove the foundation with water and my makeup eraser (read my review).
Wear Test
I tried it with a beauty sponge on one side of my face and a brush on the other- both applied beautifully. I think I would use a brush to apply since I don’t want my sponge absorbing all of the product. Also, since it doesn’t have a pump and it’s more liquid than other foundations, I can’t tell how much I’m actually using.
With the Sonia Roselli Water Balm, it looked flawless! Of course, I needed to use concealer to cover up dark spots, but it looked like my skin. To test its longevity, I didn’t powder my t-zone and by the 2nd hour, it was breaking up on and around my nose and chin. This was on a hot day and after doing a little arm workout (where I didn’t quite work up a sweat). By the 4th hour, it was basically gone from under my nose. I don’t know if it was from the heat or if I didn’t use as much as I thought, but when I removed it with a makeup wipe, there wasn’t as much foundation on the wipe as I usually do.
Test #2
Primer used: Make Up For Ever Step 1 Skin Equalizer Primer (Smoothing), Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Oil
Powder used: Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder
I tried building up the coverage with two layers of foundation and set it with powder. By the second hour, it looked horrible- it was collecting around my nose. The makeup felt heavy and looked cakey.
Test #3
Primer used: Make Up For Ever Step 1 Skin Equalizer Primer (Hydrating)
Powder used: Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder
By the 3rd hour, the foundation was settling into fine lines between my brows (making it look like I had wrinkles) and wore off under my nose. It didn’t look terrible, but it would require a touch up.
Less than 2 hours after applying, it looked powdery and was collecting around the nose. I think the sunscreen made the foundation apply on top of my skin, creating a layer on top of my skin instead of sinking into the skin.
Test #5
Primer used: Stellar Brilliant Primer
This was the worst combo. Since the primer doesn’t hydrate, it accentuated my dry spots.
Test #6
Primers used: Smashbox Photo Finish Reduce Redness Primer, Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Oil (on t-zone)
Setting Spray: NYX Makeup Setting Spray (Matte)
Powder: Bare Minerals barePRO Performance Wear Pressed Powder Foundation in Cashmere 06
I mixed the Dior foundation with my Lancôme Skin Feels Good Skin Nourishing Foundation in 01N Nude Vanilla (read my review). It looked absolutely flawless!! After wearing it for six hours when I was out in the heat, you could tell it broke up a bit on my chin, but around my nose, it still looked pretty good.
Worth It?
This foundation is worth it if you’re looking for a natural matte finish. This foundation is beautiful, but I don’t think it will become a staple in my foundation lineup. Lately, I’ve been into radiant, natural finishes to give that glow from within look and since this one has a matte finish, it’s not what I’m looking for in a foundation.
The winning combination for me was Test #6.
Sonia Roselli Water Balm as a moisturizer and primer
Using a smoothing primer to minimize the appearance of pores on my cheeks and forehead
Smashbox Primer Oil on and around my nose
Mixing the Dior Foundation with the Lancome Skin Feels Good Skin Nourishing Foundation
To set, I dabbed some Bare Minerals powder on my t-zone to get rid of the shine and used my NYX setting spray.
RATING: 4/5
I have to dock a point for the packaging- no pump and it’s in a plastic bottle. I know that the plastic packaging is so that it’s more portable and won’t break if you throw into your bag, but if I’m paying more than $40, I expect a pump and a glass bottle. I just prefer pumps because then I know how much I’m using. It’s hard to tell if I’m squeezing out the same amount each time.
Have you tried products from the Dior Backstage collection?
I was asked to review the Sonia Roselli Water Balm by the hair stylist & makeup artist who did my sister’s and my makeup (for my sister’s Toronto Wedding Reception). Vicki from vlmakeup (check out her website and Instagram) wanted to know how the product worked on my skin type. I have acne prone skin that’s normal on my cheeks and forehead, but dry on and around my nose and chin (probably because of acne clearing products) and every now and then, I get dry patches around the mouth and under eye area. Even though my skin is dry, I get an oily t-zone and need to powder to prevent foundation from breaking up in that area.
I had never heard of the brand before, so I looked into it and read some reviews before I took the plunge and purchased the product. Sonia Roselli has been a makeup artist for over 20 years. In 2015, she decided to start her own line of products. The brand sells mostly skincare products, but they also sell makeup brushes and individual lashes. Since I bought the Water Balm, they’re coming out with more products that you can pre-order. After trying this product out, I am definitely interested in trying other products.
The question is, is this product worth it? ABSOLUTELY! Read on to see what I have to say about the Water Balm!
Japanese “Water Bead” technology allows you to use as a toner, serum, day cream, night cream, eye cream and makeup primer all in one. Water Balm is an innovative skin care product that keeps your face hydrated for hours.
It plumps fine lines and wrinkles, allowing your makeup to look fresh, radiant and youthful.
Water Balm is not vegan- it contains a small amount of silk, egg, soy and citrus.
Japanese Spring Water, Japanese Organic Rice, Silk, Soya Milk, Green Tea, Japanese Plum, Soybean
Formulated without: Chemical color, fragrance, parabens and alcohol
Made in Japan
As a primer: Place a nickel size amount in the palm of your fingers. Tap together and lightly tap all over the face, then rub in evenly. Tapping breaks open the Water Beads and all the goodness is on your face. Let sit for 5-10 minutes before applying makeup. Apply makeup as usual.
As a moisturizer: Apply Water Balm as your final step.
I think it’s so cool because when you apply this, it feels like you’re applying silky water to your face. You can see the water beads once you’ve tapped it onto your skin. Depending on the weather, it can feel a bit tack after, but it mostly dries down after a few minutes. I’m not sure how well this would perform on someone with oily skin since mine tends to be dry. It keeps my face hydrated for hours after applying it. I don’t know about using this as an eye cream; yes, it’s hydrating, but it won’t help get rid of dark circles or puffiness, so maybe keep your eye cream in rotation.
I tested this with the Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation and it looked absolutely flawless (read my review)!
RATING: 5/5
This product gets top marks in my books! It’s not too expensive considering it’s multi-purpose. Right now, I have a few moisturizers and serums to go through, but once I’ve finished those, I think I will only be purchasing this product for moisturizer. I will keep it on rotation in my primers, but I will continue to buy other primers because other brands like Make Up For ever, Smashbox, etc. have primers that cater to different things- redness correcting, smoothing, etc. The Water Balm will be my new hydrating primer though. I have the MUFE Step 1 Skin Equalizer Primer- Hydrating, so once it’s finished, I won’t repurchase that particular one. I wrote a series of posts on my makeup inventory, if you want to see what primers I like, check out the post on primers and foundations (click here).
You can never have too many highlighters, especially when you can get different shades and you can use highlighter as eyeshadow too. I won’t be putting a makeup buying ban on highlighters.
Physician’s Formula Butter Highlighter in Pink
I love this, it’s creamy and gorgeous. I will definitely be picking up other shades of this highlighter.
Maybelline Facestudio Master Chrome Metallic Highlighter in 100 Molten Gold
This is a fave of mine. I would definitely pick up another shade since this is a bit too dark for my skintone.
Wet N Wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder in Precious Petals
This is beautiful. I wish I could get other shades of this highlighter, but that’s all that was left in stock at Rexall.
Urban Decay Afterglow 8-Hour Powder Highlighter in Sin
I got this as a rewards bonus from Sephora. It’s really pretty and the nicest out of the higher end ones that I have. I don’t think I would pick up the full-size because there are so many pretty drugstore highlighters.
Clionadh Cosmetics Marble Highlighter in Mother of Pearl (read my review)
I picked this up at Indie Expo Canada. It’s a gorgeous marble highlighter. It’s more of a fun highlighter since it has different colours- it looks purple, but when you move it in the light, it changes.
Stila All Over Shimmer Powder
I picked this up at Winners. I don’t think I’d pay full price for it. The darker shade in the duo is beautiful, but the lighter one is a bit powdery. When mixed together though, they make a beautiful rosy gold shade.
Essence Light Up Your Face Luminizer Palette (read my review)
I really want to try the Pure Nude Highlighter by Essence which I plan to pick up at some point. One of the shades in this palette is kind of chunky which I don’t love.
MAC X Star Trek Trip the Light Fantastic Powder in Luna Luster
When I first swatched this, I was surprised that it wasn’t buttery. It’s actually better to use a fan brush with this one so that it can disperse the shimmer nicely. If you used your finger, you’d get a splotch of shimmer in one spot of your face. This highlighter looks better when wet.
H&M Spotlight Glow Powder in Sumptuous Peach (read my review)
The pan of this is huge and it’s a beautiful highlighter for a brand that’s known for clothing.
Inglot x Jennifer Lopez Livin’ the Highlight Illuminator in J201 Radiant (read my review)
I prefer to use this as a body highlighter since it’s a loose highlight.
Bobbi Brown Illuminating Bronzing Powder in Halo
This is kind of chunky which was surprising since it’s Bobbi Brown. After using the blush, bronzer and highlighter, I don’t think I would pick up a Bobbi Brown product from any of those categories. If I were to get a Bobbi Brown product, it’d be an eyeshadow palette or skincare-related products like primer and foundation.
Smashbox Blush Soft Lights Duo in Passion/Shimmer
This highlighter is pretty, but it’s a bit powdery, if you wet your brush, it looks better. The duo would be great for travel since it has a blush and a highlighter.
Physician’s Formula Pink, Smashbox Shimmer, Stila Shimmer (light shade, dark shade, both shades mixed), Essence Light Up Your Face Palette (3 shades), Wet N Wild Precious Petals Bobbi Brown Halo, H&M Sumptuous Peach, Clionadh Mother of Pearl, Urban Decay Sin, Mac X Star Trek Luna Luster, Maybelline Molten Gold, Inglot x J Lo Radiant
The prettiest highlighters were actually the drugstore ones (in my opinion). I prefer the wet look instead of chunky, shimmery highlighters. My favourites are the Maybelline Master Chrome, Wet N Wild MegaGlo and Physician’s Formula Butter Highlighter.
I realized that I forgot to include the Milk Makeup Liquid Strobe Highlighter in the swatches. If you want to see the swatch, you can read my review on it.
I think it’s safe to say that I won’t be needing blush any time soon. I won’t be purchasing any new blushes until I finish at least 5. I have a combo of matte and shimmery shades. Shimmery shades can be nice for the daytime during the summer, but I feel like they’re more for the night time. I think next time I buy blushes, I will get matte shades because you can use highlighter to add shimmer.
Bobbi Brown Blush in French Pink & Nectar
French Pink is the hot pink shade on the left. Both are beautiful shades.- great for summer time!
Burt’s Bees Blush in 1210 Shy Pink
I received this from Topbox Circle along with a bunch of other Burt’s Bees products and I’m so glad I did! I love this blush and it’s from the drugstore too!
Bella Pierre Mineral Blush in MB002 Autumn Glow
This was the first blush I bought that wasn’t from the drugstore…in fact, it may be time to declutter/dispose of it (I bought it when I was in university :/). It’s really pretty, but since it is more of a brown shade, I use it in the Fall/Winter. I don’t really like that it’s a loose powder, it takes up so much more space and it’s more messy than a regular, pressed blush.
Miniso Flawless Baked Blusher in 02 Rosy Pink in 02 Rosy Pink
You can’t get any better than this Miniso blush. It was $2.99 and it’s such a beautiful, shimmery pink.
Milani Baked Blush in 01 Dolce Pink
This is so pretty, it’s a gorgeous, shimmery pink.
Estée Lauder Pure Color Envy Sculpting Blush in 03 Pink Ingenue
Since this is in a ‘kit/palette,’ I tend to forget about it. It’s a beautiful pink though and I need to use it more often.
The Estée Edit The Barest Blush in 03 Purr Pink
This is a very bright pink and I need to use a very light hand with this. I few times I put way too much on and looked like a clown. I’ve had to dab my face with my sponge to add some of the residual foundation to dial it down.
Smashbox Blush Soft Lights Duo in Passion/Shimmer
I like that this is a 2-in-1 blush and highlighter. 2-in-1 is great for travelling and this is a very nice mauvy pink.
Smashbox L.A. Lights Palette in Culver City Coral
I haven’t touched this palette (I didn’t swatch it below), but I’m excited to use it. Once I finish a few blushes, I will take it out.
Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush in Paaarty & Concept
I love the Tarte blushes. This one that came in the Sephora birthday present is so pretty for a naturally blushed look. I haven’t used the shade Concept yet.
Bella Pierre Cheek and Lip Stain in Coral
I haven’t used this much because I don’t know if I love cream blushes that much. Sometimes cream products just make my face feel oily. Maybe I’ll use it as a lip stain and sheer it out with vaseline.
From L-R: Milani Dolce Pink (shimmery), Miniso Rosy Pink (shimmery), Tarte Paaarty, Tarte Concept, Burt’s Bees Shy Pink, Bella Pierre Autumn Glow (shimmery), Bobbi Brown French Pink, Bobbi Brown Nectar, Smashbox Passion, Estee Lauder Pink Ingenue (shimmery), Estee Edit Purr Pink, Bella Pierre Coral
I think my favourites are Tarte, Burt’s Bees, Miniso and Milani. Surprisingly, the higher end ones swatched a bit patchy.
I really want to buy a NARS and a Physician’s Formula blush. If you read my post on Beauty Recommendations from Instagrammers, I was recommended a few different blushes to try.
Since it’s July, I’ve decided to do a mid-year makeup inventory on some of my makeup. I’ve seen a few people do it on Instagram, and thought I should do that too and decide how many I want to finish of each type of product before I can purchase more.
Today’s post is on my mascaras. I think I’ve done pretty well. I haven’t bought a new one in a while, I obtained a few more from my friend who got them in a bonus and already had a full-size.
If you want to see the other makeup inventory posts I’ve written, click the following links:
started with 10; 5 (after decluttering some of the ones pictured)
Since taking this picture, I’ve finished the Too Faced Better Than Sex mascara and obtained the Burt’s Bees Nourishing Lengthening Mascara (I also must’ve forgotten one in my collection when I took this picture- an Estée Lauder one). After this post, I’m going to be retiring the 3-step fiber mascara (read my review), L’Oréal Lash Paradise and the Estée Lauder one because I’ve had them for a while. I’m not going to do a makeup buying ban for mascara. After retiring 3, I’ll have 5 and next month, it’s probably going to be time to retire more.
Estée Lauder Sumptuous Knockout Defining Lift and Fan Mascara in Black
I did not like the brush on this mascara. I tried using the mascara with another brush and I liked it. For me, it wouldn’t be worth buying a mascara (if I purchased high-end ones) if I didn’t like the brush though.
L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara in Black
I may be one of the few that doesn’t like either Better Than Sex or Lash Paradise. I’ve compared both mascaras (read my review). I just don’t like the brushes and they both dry out so quickly.
L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Original Mascara in Blackest Black
I think this was one of the first mascaras I tried in high school. It’s still a fave of mine.
Bobbi Brown Smokey Eye Mascara in Black
I really like this one, it looks natural and I love the brush.
Burt’s Bees Nourishing Lengthening Mascara in Classic Black
This one kind of smells (in a different way than other mascara), but once it’s on the lashes, it’s fine. I like the brush and it comes off easily with water.
Urban Decay Perversion Mascara in Black
I like this one too, it makes my lashes look darker and not clumpy at all!
Urban Decay Troublemaker Mascara in Black
I like this mascara, but since it’s a deluxe sample size, the wand is so tiny and it’s hard to use it.
I love most of these mascaras, but I’ve said it many times, I don’t like buying mascaras over $15. There are so many amazing drugstore ones, why buy high end ones? Especially when you should throw them out after a few months. Mascara gets bacteria very easily and you don’t want to get an eye infection. My fave mascaras are by L’Oréal and Maybelline. I’ve only tried a few other drugstore ones because I received them from Influenster for review purposes. I’ve received the Revlon Mega Multiplier (read my review) and CoverGirl Total Tease Mascara (read my review).
I have a handful of bronzers that are all fairly popular, so I thought I would swatch them all side-by-side to compare them and give a mini review about what I think about them. However, some are matte and some radiant and several are a bit darker than what I should be using on my skin tone, but it’s nothing a good blending can’t fix. The Bobbi Brown one is from an eyes and cheek palette, the Too Faced one was part of a rewards kit from Sephora and the Physicians Formula one was what was left at my Shoppers when it was on sale and I really wanted to try it.
Current bronzer inventory: 6
2 Matte- Bobbi Brown, Too Faced
1 Natural- Jennifer Lopez Inglot (in the description, it doesn’t say whether this is matte or not, but I would describe this as natural because it’s between matte and radiant)
3 Radiant- Milani, Physicians Formula, Tarte (Park Ave Princess is also available in matte)
Bobbi Brown Bronzing Powder in Medium
Golden Light would probably be better suited to my skin tone, but it’s what comes in this palette.
A lightweight powder bronzer with a soft, matte finish—your secret to achieving a sun-kissed look year-round (or just when you want to warm up sallow skin).
Formulated with the perfect balance of red and brown tones (the colors that exist in a true tan), this lightweight, mica-free formula creates the most natural look.
Inglot x Jennifer Lopez Boogie Down Bronze Bronzing Powder in J217 Safari (read my review)
This is kind of light, I could probably go up a shade.
Feel fabulous with a natural-looking tan and a sun-kissed glow with Boogie Down Bronze. This sheer, pressed powder leaves your complexion feeling instantly warmer and radiant. The formula allows seamless blending with a powdery, velvet finish that doesn’t smudge. Define your cheekbones by brushing across them lightly to enjoy all-over warmth day and night.
Milani Bronzer XL in 01 Bronze Glow
At first, I thought this was too orange, but it blends out nicely with a fluffy brush. Go in with a very light hand and build it up.
UPDATE (July 29): I’ve mostly been using this bronzer because it’s my least fave of my collection. I think the fragrance in this has caused my cheeks to break out a bit. So, I decided to declutter it.
Bronzer XL is an instant, healthy looking kiss of summer color in one no-fuss powder compact. The matte half acts as a base and contour for the face, neck and body, and the shimmery highlighter side will take you anywhere you want to glow. With a silky finish and oil-free formula, this bronzer stays where you want it to and lasts as long as you do.
Physicians Formula Murumuru Butter Butter Bronzer in Deep Bronzer
I chose Deep Bronzer because it was on sale at the time and it was the only one in stock. I don’t think it’s too dark for me, but I could probably get the Bronzer shade next time.
Ultra-luxurious bronzer, infused with Murumuru Butter, delivers a radiant Brazilian goddess glow! Incredibly creamy and soft texture combines the best features of a powder and cream bronzer, to deliver a lit-from-within tropical glow unlike any other.
Packed with essential fatty acids and pro-vitamins that soften, condition and moisturize skin, leaving it silky soft. Ultra-rich bronzer formula instantly melts into skin, sealing-in moisture to deliver instant and lasting hydration. Features ultra-refined pearl and soft-focus pigments that smooth skin texture, brighten skin tone and deliver a gorgeous bronze finish.
Tarte Amazonian Clay Waterproof Bronzer in Park Ave Princess
If I were to pick this up in the store again, I would choose the matte one.
An ultralight, mineral-based bronzing powder.
Tarte Mineral Powder Bronzer is an oil-free bronzer that fuses earthly minerals with naturally-derived ingredients for a natural-looking finish. It contains Skinvigorating™ ingredients like vitamins A and E, which act as antioxidants to fight free radical damage, and it’s infused with mineral pigments that are known for their soothing and softening properties.
Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Matte Bronzer in Chocolate Soleil
If I were to get this, I would need Milk Chocolate, but it was in a Rewards Bonus Kit. I just have to be light-handed with this bronzer and maybe use it as an eyeshadow to help use it up.
A long-wearing, rich, matte bronzer infused with 100 percent real cocoa powder.
Bronzing has never been so delicious. Create all-over warmth and dimension while achieving a rich, matte, buildable tan. The formula is infused with 100 percent real cocoa powder for skin-loving benefits and a long-wear bronze that smells as good as it looks.
For the Milani bronzer, I swirled my finger into both the bronzer and highlight to get the swatch above.
Inglot, Tarte and Bobbi Brown’s bronzers aren’t scented, while the Physicians Formula, Milani and Too Faced are scented. Physicians Formula smells like coconut, Too Faced smells like chocolate (because of the cocoa powder) and Milani smells like perfume.
Even though the Bobbi Brown one is the most expensive, I had the most trouble swatching it. It was going on patchy while most of the others went on smoothly.
As you can see from the swatches, the Bobbi Brown and Too Faced ones are the darkest because both of those are for medium skin tones. I would consider purchasing Too Faced in the correct shade, but i don’t think i will be picking up a Bobbi Brown Bronzer. The Milani Bronzer is the most orange of all of them. A little goes a long way, but once you blend it out, it looks really nice. I wanted to try it because it was such a good deal for such a big pan.
I think my favourite has to be the Physicians Formula Murumuru Butter Butter Bronzer. It’s buttery, blends easily and I love the price. Normally I don’t like scented things, especially if it’s very strong, but I’m okay with the coconut scent from this bronzer. I’m also still figuring out how to apply bronzer properly and spending more than $25 for a bronzer seems like a bit much since I’m still learning. I’d rather spend the money on a good primer or foundation.
I thought I would do a mid-year makeup inventory on some of my makeup. Today, I will be doing an inventory on Primers & Foundations. Check out my other posts:
I’ve decided not to do eyeliners because they’re all more or less the same shades (nude, black, brown). I’m not going to be doing eyeshadows either. Right now, my eyeshadow collection is a bunch of singles and a few palettes. With the exception of my Bobbi Brown palette, the palettes I have in my makeup inventory were not selected by me (I won two in giveaways and received one in a monthly Topbox). I sort of just use them as practise because I’m not adventurous enough to wear some of the shades in the palettes. I’m also not going to inventory my lip products because I have bought a fair amount of lip products from MAC Warehouse sales, so a lot are no longer available and there’s no use providing mini reviews for products that can no longer be bought.
Now, let’s get onto the topic of this post: Primers & Foundations! I may not have as many foundations and primers as some people, but I still think it’s more than enough for just one girl. I am not buying any more foundations or primers until I finish 5 foundations and 2 primers. I did just order the Dior BACKSTAGE Face and Body Foundation from Sephora because the samples were good and Ebates.ca was at 8%! I chose a deluxe sample of the Fenty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation.
After I finish these drugstore brand foundations, I’m only going to buy high end foundations from now on. I already buy high end primers because I haven’t found a drugstore one that I love and it’s easier to sample higher end ones. Buying from the drugstore, you just have to hope that it will do what you want since you can’t return them. Although drugstore brands have some amazing products, it’s much harder to find my foundation shade since a lot of drugstores don’t have foundation testers.
I hope to find 3-5 foundations/tinted moisturizers/cc cream that I can keep in rotation. I want to find foundations with different finishes, coverage and different types (liquid, powder, stick). Instead of having 20 different foundations that could go bad before I finish them, I want to have a few holy grail ones that I absolutely love. You may remember that I loved the Lancome Miracle Cushion Liquid Cushion Compact Foundation in 025 Beige Naturel, I may buy that one again when my collection goes down. Lately, I’ve been more into finding a sheer coverage, radiant/natural finish foundation that looks natural (instead of a medium/full coverage). On good days, my skin is fairly clear, and I just need to cover up spots here and there, so I don’t need full coverage on my whole face. I’d rather get a good concealer to cover up blemishes and use a lightweight foundation that shows my skin. I want the Markle Sparkle (aptly named natural, radiant makeup look of Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex).
I have a page on the blog of my foundation/concealer shade matches. Not all are an exact match to me, but they are the shades I’ve bought or tested over the years. Click here!
Maybelline Fit Me Hydrate + Smooth Foundation in 130 Buff Beige, NARS Sheer Glow in Deauville, The Ordinary Serum Foundation in 2.0N, Revlon Nearly Naked Presssed Powder in 030 Medium
Only two of the foundations above were more than $30- the NARS Sheer Glow and the Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Invisible Cover Foundation. The Smashbox Photo Filter Powder Foundation and the Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick were both purchased at the MAC Warehouse Sale for $20-25. I don’t think I would repurchase any of the foundations I’ve finished so far. Like I said, I only want to buy high end foundations from now on, and I didn’t love the NARS Sheer Glow. It was nice, but it didn’t have a pump and I don’t want to pay extra for one. Also, since the coverage is sheer, I’d rather use a tinted moisturizer/BB cream or repurchase the Lancome Miracle Cushion foundation.
Since February, I’ve obtained 3 more foundations- Lancôme Skin Feels Good Skin Nourishing Foundation and the two Burt’s Bees foundations (liquid and powder) from Topbox Circle.
Stellar Brilliant Primer
I’ve tried the Stellar primer a few times and it’s really nice. I haven’t put it to the test, but from what I’ve tried, it seems like MAC’s strobe cream, but it feels smoother since it blurs pores.
Make Up For Ever Step 1 Skin Equalizer Primer (Hydrating, Redness Correcting & Smoothing)
The Make Up For Ever Primers are favourites of mine because they smell so good. The smoothing one is my fave of the three.
Smashbox Photo Finish Reduce Redness Primer
The Smashbox colour correcting primer is not a fave, I bought it at the MAC sale, but it pills and it doesn’t correct redness very well.
Nude by Nature Perfecting Primer
The Nude by Nature primer is nice for hydrating, but I wouldn’t buy a full-size because the scent is too sweet.
Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Oil (not pictured)
I like to use the primer oil on my nose because it’s so dry. I’ve only used it on my nose so far. I plan to write a review after I test it out with different foundations formulas. So far, I’ve tried it with powder and liquid foundations and it looks really good.
TIP: it’s cheaper to buy Make Up For Ever and Smashbox primers in the mini size. It’s $20 for a 15mL tube, but $45 (MUFE) and $50 (Smashbox) for a 30mL tube.
Smashbox Photo Filter Powder Foundation in Shade 1
Thank goodness I didn’t pay full price for this, it’s way too light for me. I bought it at the MAC warehouse sale. I’ll use it to highlight.
Shiseido Sheer Mattifying Compact Foundation in B60 Natural Deep Beige
This makes my skin look amazing! Of course, it has to be when my skin is clear, otherwise you’ll get the powdery bump if you try to cover acne. But, the longevity of this is amazing (I only had to blot once in a 10 hour period). I need to get the updated version of this powder since this is discontinued. Also, maybe I should go a shade or two lighter because it’s a bit dark, but I got it at Winners for $9 and just wanted to see how it looked.
Burt’s Bees Natural Mattifying Powder Foundation in 1115 Sand
This is also too light, but I did get it for free from Topbox Circle and from what I’ve seen (Instagram posts), they gave everyone the same shades. I will also use this for highlighting.
Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick in Ivory 0.75 (read my review)
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, this is beautiful, but I need the right shade.
Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-in-1 Foundation in 01 Creamy Vanilla
This shade is quite yellow (even for me). I wish Rexall had more shades- they have a lot more on the Milani website, but I’m still not sure any would match me. This foundation is a bit too thick for me. I prefer to use as a concealer or mix with a sheer foundation or moisturizer to thin it out.
Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Invisible Cover Foundation in Y245 Soft Sand
I like this foundation, but I don’t know if I love it enough to repurchase. It’s buildable, doesn’t look cakey and gives a beautiful, natural finish. The undertones are Yellow or Red, but I think I’m more neutral than I am yellow. The yellow undertones are just too yellow for me.
Burt’s Bees Goodness Glows Liquid Foundation in 1025 Natural Beige
This washes off so easily (with just water) and I love that. I’ve learned that the best way to apply it is with a damp beauty sponge because it sets so quickly. When I was testing it with a brush, it dried in one spot and wouldn’t blend out. The smell is quite strong, but once it’s on your face, you can’t smell it anymore.
Lancôme Skin Feels Good Skin Nourishing Foundation in 01N Nude Vanilla (read my review)
This smells so nice for a foundation and I love it for natural, no makeup makeup.
The Body Shop All-In-One BB Cream in 01 Lighter Skin Tones
I also like this for a natural makeup day. It adapts to your skin tone, but sometimes it can look a bit darker than my face. I always have to set the t-zone because, like other BB Creams, it looks quite shiny if you don’t set it.
Shiseido Sheer & Perfect Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF18 in B60 Natural Deep Beige
Similar to the Shiseido powder, I got this at Winners and it’s a lot darker than my face. I need to thin it out, but since it’s sheer coverage, it does lighten up as you blend. I’ve mixed it with moisturizer, and it looks nice. I’m not a huge fan of the smell, so I don’t think I will be getting a liquid foundation from Shiseido in the future.
Wet N Wild Photofocus Foundation in Buff Bisque
I don’t like that this foundation has a spatula, I feel like bacteria can get in so much faster than if it had a pump. This shade matches my skin if I just do a swatch on my face, but when I blend it out all over, it’s way too orange. I should’ve tried a shade or two lighter. I don’t love the smell, it kind of smells like chemicals and sort of makes me worried that it’s clogging up my pores.
Maybelline Fit Me Shine-Free + Balance Stick Foundation in 130 Buff Beige
This is really nice for a lighter makeup day, it doesn’t build up as much coverage as the Bobbi Brown stick. I remember when I first heard about sticks and I was worried it would make my dry skin look worse, but this one and the Bobbi Brown are both not too drying and look really nice.
I’ve tried the Stellar Limitless Foundation a few times, and I don’t know why there aren’t more reviews on it. It has a radiant finish and medium-full coverage. I didn’t try building it up, but I would say medium is right.
Every now and then when I post a pic on Instagram, I’ll ask my Instagram followers for beauty recommendations and sometimes when I post about a new blog post, someone who recommend a brand they like that has a similar product. Here’s a list of products recommended by my fellow beauty Instagrammers. I provided links to the Instagram accounts of the ladies who recommended the products too.
As you know, I like The Body Shop’s Tea Tree Oil products. Check out my reviews of two of their products below!
After posting about the Vasanti BrightenUp! Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator, I was recommended a similar product. This is the only recommendation where I hadn’t heard of the brand before. It’s always nice to learn about new brands.
After posting my This or That post on Cleansing Balms (comparing Clinique’s and Pixi’s), someone said the It Cosmetics balm was good. I can’t find the comment now, so I don’t know who recommended it.
IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Makeup 3-in-1 Makeup Melting Balm
I was asking for recommendations for favourite CC Creams and tinted moisturizers, I was recommended two:
IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF50+
NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF30
I love facial mists, I have the Cucumber Water Hydrating Face Mist from Pearlessence that I got from Winners and the Pixi Hydrating Milky Mist (Read my review).
