Beauty Archives – Page 18 of 25

Worth It? | Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation

July 16, 2018
Hi Everyone!

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.

Test #1

Primer used: Sonia Roselli Water Balm (read my review)

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.

Test #4

Primer used: Sonia Roselli Water Balm

Sunscreen used: Vichy Idéal Soleil Anti-Shine Dry Touch Lotion SPF60 (read my review)

Powder used: Innisfree No-Sebum Mineral Powder

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?

Love,
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Review | Sonia Roselli Water Balm

July 13, 2018

Hi Everyone!

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).

Have you heard of Sonia Roselli products?

Love,

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2018 Mid-Year Makeup Inventory | Highlighters

July 11, 2018
Hi Everyone!

Continuing my makeup inventory, today’s post is on highlighters! Check out my other mid-year makeup roundup!

Primers & Foundations | Bronzers | Blushes | Mascaras | Highlighters

Current inventory:
- 12 powder highlighters
- 1 liquid strobe highlighter from Milk Makeup
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.

Love,
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2018 Mid-Year Makeup Inventory | Blushes

July 9, 2018
Hi Everyone!

Continuing my makeup inventory, today’s post is on blushes! Check out my other mid-year makeup roundup!

Primers & Foundations | Bronzers | Blushes | Mascaras | Highlighters

Current blush inventory:
- 11 powder blushes + 1 Smashbox palette I haven’t touched (includes 2 blushes)
- 1 cheek & lip stain
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.

What are your fave blushes?

Love,
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2018 Mid-Year Makeup Inventory | Mascaras

July 6, 2018
Hi Everyone!

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:

Primers & Foundations | Bronzers | Blushes | Mascaras | Highlighters

Current mascara inventory:
- 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).

What are your fave mascaras?

Love,
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2018 Mid-Year Makeup Inventory | Bronzers

July 5, 2018
Hi Everyone!

Check out my other makeup inventory posts:

Primers & Foundations | Bronzers | Blushes | Mascaras | Highlighters

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.

What are your favourite bronzers?

Love,
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2018 Mid-Year Makeup Inventory | Primers & Foundations

July 4, 2018
Hi Everyone!

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:

Bronzers | Blushes | Mascaras | Highlighters

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).

Current primer and foundation inventory:
- 7 primers (1 isn’t pictured)
- 12 including 3 powder, 5 liquid, 2 sticks, 2 tinted moisturizer/bb cream
  - going to declutter the Wet N Wild foundation
  - 2 other foundations are more than half way finished (Make Up For Ever and Milani)
I’ve written reviews on several of the foundations and primers, click the links below:

Burt’s Bees Makeup

This or That | Stick Foundations

The Ordinary Serum Foundation

The Body Shop All-In-One BB Cream

Comparing Maybelline Fit Me Foundations

Lancome Skin Feels Good Skin Nourishing Foundation SPF23

Shiseido Sheer Mattifying Compact Foundation (discontinued)

This or That | Colour Correcting Primers

Nude by Nature Perfecting Primer

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.

What are your fave foundations?

Love,
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Beauty Recommendations from Instagrammers

July 2, 2018

Hi Everyone!

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!

Targeted Gel Blemish Stick | Anti-Imperfection Daily Solution

I was recommended several other products from the line.

Tea Tree Anti-Imperfection Night Mask

Tea Tree Oil

Tea Tree Oil Skin Clearing Foaming Cleanser

Tea Tree Oil Skin Clearing Mattifying Facial Toner

Recommended by @brittdanielsbeauty, @mia.ind & @themakeuptreasury

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.

Ongaro Probiotic Enzyme Exfoliator

Recommended by @thewellnessmama

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

Recommended by @mariiacanoa & @celiniblini

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).

Saturday Skin Daily Dew Hydrating Essence Mist

Mario Badescu Facial Spray

Recommended by @rubiredlipstick & @girlandtheblossom

I love the Garnier Micellar Water and I was recommended the one with Argan Oil.

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water with Argan Oil

Recommended by @jeanicaxx

NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation

Recommended by @thewelshchic

Bobbi Brown Blush

NARS Blush

Revlon Powder Blush

TheBalm Blush

Recommended by @editionalbeauty & @icxbeauty

MAC Lipstick in Modesty (cremesheen)

MAC Lipstick in Velvet Teddy (matte)

MAC Lipstick in Peach Blossom (cremesheen)

Recommended by @swatchesbyeva, @lipglossnlashes82 & @shellsmakeupchair

What are some of your beauty recommendations/favourites?

Love,

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June 2018 Product Empties

June 30, 2018

Hi Everyone!

Here are my empties for June! I finished quite a few makeup items.

Pixi Hydrating Milky Mist – The nozzle of this randomly stopped working after I was 2/3 done. It wasn’t misting, it was spraying a steady stream that went across the room. I tried to clean it, and then I got 2 streams, I had to pour it into a different bottle to finish it off.

Repurchase? Maybe.

Pixi Rose Flash Balm – I’m not a huge fan of rose-scented things, but I loved the balm.

Repurchase? No.

Clinique Even Better Eyes Dark Circle Corrector – I have been using this every night since December. This little tube lasted 7 months (way longer than expected it to last). I don’t know if it’s from lack of sleep, but this was helping get rid of dark circles in the beginning, but after a while, it wasn’t doing anything. Although, this product kept my under eyes hydrated and smooth. I liked that the tip of it was to help cool the under eyes and depuff them. I liked the consistency of it, it wasn’t too thick and didn’t make my under eye area break out.

Repurchase? Yes.

The Ordinary Serum Foundation in 2.0N – This is a decent foundation for the price, but I didn’t love it.

Repurchase? No.

Tarte Amazonian Clay Waterproof Bronzer – There are so many other ones I like for less. Also, this bronzer had a sheen to it, so if I were to buy a Tarte bronzer, I would pick up the matte one. I finished this shortly before writing a mid-year makeup inventory post (read my review and see a comparison swatch with other bronzers).

Repurchase? No.

Benefit Benebalm Hydrating Tinted Lip Balm – This was very hydrating, and felt nice on the lips, but it was a bit too pink-red for me. It looked like I ate a cherry popsicle and it stained my lips.

Repurchase? No.

Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara – Even though this is a cult favourite, I don’t like it. I’ve tried it several times now (I got it in a rewards bonus from Sephora and as an Xmas gift). It dries out quickly and I don’t love the shape of the brush. I compared this with the other cult favourite, L’Oréal’s Lash Paradise (read my review).

Repurchase? No.

Maybelline Fit Me Concealer in Light – This is a fave concealer of mine which isn’t saying a whole lot because I’ve only tried samples of high end ones and only bought drugstore ones. This wasn’t actually an empty, but I realized I’ve had this longer than I should and it’s time to throw it out.

Repurchase? Yes, but I want to try other ones before buying this again. I want to try the NARS one and the Maybelline Age Rewind.

What were your empties this month?

Love,

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June 2018 Faves

June 29, 2018

Hi Everyone!

Here are June’s beauty faves!

I really love this Clinique Sonic Systems Purifying Cleansing brush (read my review). It really gets off all the makeup that I missed with wipes, micellar water, and makeup cloths. I use it with my fave cleansers from The Face Shop. The charge lasts a really long time (but it also takes forever to charge it too). It has an auto shut off feature after 30 seconds and I love that it isn’t battery powered so it doesn’t have a backing. It’s okay if you accidentally drop it into the water (although it’s probably not a good idea to submerge it).

Now I know why Glow Recipe is so popular. I love both of these products: Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask and the Blueberry Bounce Gentle Cleanser (read my review)!

This Canadian Indie brand, Clionadh Cosmetics, has one of the prettiest marble highlighters I’ve ever seen! This is the Mother of Pearl highlighter (read my review). The bottom swatch is when it’s wet and the top is swatched from the pan. I find it’s more vibrant when it’s dry.

The gang’s all here…or at least my Tea Tree Oil products that I own from The Body Shop. I swear I’m not an ambassador or anything!! I just really love the products and they’ve been great at keeping acne away. Of course, I get the occasional breakouts before that time of the month. The Daily Solution (read my review) has been a great step in my skincare regimen and the Blemish Stick (read my review) is great for spot treatments.

I’ve been testing out the Body Wash because unfortunately, my face isn’t the only place that gets acne…I also occasionally get it on my back and in the cleavage (TMI?) especially during the summer time. It’s been really good so far, but it’s quite stinky. It also concerns me that it says “not to use it on the face”. I wonder how strong it is, but it does say that it’s okay to use daily. With my sensitive skin, maybe I will use it 3 times a week.

I will definitely be picking up more tea tree oil products (perhaps the cleanser) in the future!! I’ve been told the toner is good.

I really love the Burt’s Bees Blush in Shy Pink (read my review). It’s so pretty and it blends nicely!

What were your faves this month?

Love,

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Natural Makeup Look & First Impressions with Burt’s Bees Products

June 27, 2018
Hi Everyone!

I joined Topbox Circle which is like the Topbox version of Influenster and I was sent a collection of Burt’s Bees products to try out and do a natural makeup look. I was amazed at how many products they sent, I thought I would only be receiving 1 or 2, but they sent 8! I thought I would do a first impressions review of all the products while I’m at it.
- Goodness Glows Liquid Foundation in 1025 Natural Beige
  - 13 shades available
- Natural Mattifying Powder Foundation in 1115 Sand
  - 6 shades available
- Blush in 1210 Shy Pink
  - 3 shades available
- Natural Brow Pencil in 1610 Brunette
  - 2 shades available
- Natural Eyeshadow Trio in 1505 Shimmering Nudes
  - 4 shades available
- Natural Eye Liner in 1405 Soft Black
  - 3 shades available
- Nourishing Lengthening Mascara in Classic Black
  - 2 shades available
- Glossy Lipstick in Peony Dew
  - 6 shades available
On the website, they say that their makeup is formulated without parabens, phthalates, petrolatum, SLS or synthetic fragrances, and made with recyclable packaging. They’re 100% natural makeup products and never tested on animals.

Lipstick (Peony Dew), Blush (Shy Pink), Powder Foundation (Sand), Liquid Foundation (Natural beige), Eye Shadow Trio shades (Shimmering Nudes), Brow Pencil (Brunette), Eye Liner (Soft Black)

I’m going to start out by saying that I find the scent of Burt’s Bees a bit too strong for my liking and if you’re a regular reader on my blog, you’ll know that I am selective with what scentes products. Luckily though, once the products are on, you can’t smell them as much. They all have a scent except for the eyeliner and brow pencil. All of the products are fragrance free, so the scents are all natural. The blush, eyeshadow trio and powder foundation all have the same scent (I don’t know if it’s just the packaging or the actual products). It’s weird, but it sort of smells like a popsicle stick after you’ve eaten the popsicle (a bit sweet, but woodsy). The liquid foundation is kind of stinky, I’m guessing it’s the Meadowfoam Seed Oil. The mascara has a smell that’s not like other mascaras, I’m guessing it’s the Jojoba Oil. The lipstick has Red Raspberry Oil and Mimosa flower wax, so it has a very light scent of floral and fruity.

Goodness Glows Liquid Foundation in 1025 Natural Beige

When I first put this on, it looked like a perfect match for my skin, but after applying it to my whole face, I think I could go up a shade. It covered the redness around my nose and chin, but you definitely need a concealer to cover up acne or dark spots. This is NOT waterproof. Don’t go out in the rain (if you can help it) and don’t set it with a spray or the foundation will just come off and all your hard work will be running down your face. When I was cleaning my beauty sponge, I noticed that the foundation washed out much easier than other liquid foundations. You know when you clean your sponge and sometimes it takes a while to squeeze out all of the foundation? Well, you won’t have that problem with this foundation!

Glowing skin is always in. Burt’s Bees Goodness Glows Liquid Foundation is a full-coverage, mineral makeup that leaves skin smoother and more radiant with a natural finish that’s never heavy, cakey or greasy. This 98.9% natural moisturizing foundation instantly hydrates and nourishes skin and stays on all day. Made with responsibly sourced Meadowfoam Seed Oil, known for its moisturizing benefits, it gives you naturally beautiful results both inside and out. Goodness Glows Liquid Foundation is perfect for dry or combination skin.

Blush in 1210 Shy Pink

The website says Sky Pink, but it’s Shy Pink. I don’t have much to say about this (in a good way)- it’s really pretty! It’s a subtle pink, but gives you a beautiful, blushed look.

Glow beautifully and naturally, wherever you go. Our Blush applies and blends easily and evenly. This 100% natural, lightweight mineral makeup features Bamboo, Honey and Vitamin E to nourish skin and enhance your cheeks’ natural glow for beautiful results, inside and out.

Natural Mattifying Powder Foundation in 1115 Sand

This powder was quite pale on me, I need to get a darker shade. I did a light powdering of it on my t-zone after using the foundation and it instantly mattified my skin.

Shine from within, not on your skin. Our 100% Natural Mattifying Powder Foundation in Bamboo controls shine with buildable and blendable coverage to give you a smooth and even skin tone. Lightweight and non-comedogenic, our Mattifying Powder Foundation is perfect for oily or combination skin, effectively absorbing oil without drying out your skin. Made with Bamboo to blur imperfections, this mineral makeup blends easily to even out your skin. Use the included custom sponge applicator and mirror to build coverage gradually.

Natural Brow Pencil in 1610 Brunette

You can smell the cedar when you sniff the pencil! This was too light for me, it almost looked reddish brown on my brows. I prefer to use a black or gray black. I hope they come out with more shades. The product itself was okay, it filled in the gaps well. I didn’t love that it was waxy because the hairs would get matted down. I’d rather use a brow gel to keep my brows in place.

Get naturally beautiful brows that wow. Our Brow Pencil easily fills, defines and shapes brows to ensure you look your natural best. Made with Jojoba Oil and Shea Butter, our formula is 99.9% natural, long-lasting and gentle enough for the delicate eye area. First, fill in sparse, light or over-plucked brows. Then, use the brush to blend the colour and groom your brows. The natural cedar wood pencil is responsibly sourced.

Natural Eyeshadow Trio in 1505 Shimmering Nudes

These shades are so pretty! The lightest shade is a really nice for the brow bone and as a highlight. I don’t think I would use it as an all-over the lid colour because it’s shimmery and it just sort of looks powdery on my monolids. The two darker shades are really pretty too- not too dark, but perfect for an everyday look.

It’s time to go natural, without a shadow of a doubt. Our Eye Shadow Trios are a 100% natural formula that’s both easy-to-blend and long-lasting, resisting creasing, fading and smudging for all-day wear. Made with Bamboo, Honey and Vitamin E, this mineral eye makeup nourishes skin and enhances your natural glow for beautiful results inside and out.

Natural Eye Liner in 1405 Soft Black

This was a very nice black liner. You can take your makeup look from day to night by applying it on the outer V and smudging it out.

Our Nourishing Eyeliner is easy to apply and resists smudging and fading for long-lasting wear. 99.9% natural and specifically formulated for your delicate eye area, it’s made with Jojoba, Mango and responsibly sourced Meadowfoam Seed Oils to help nourish your skin. The unique cedar wood pencil is also responsibly sourced.

Nourishing Lengthening Mascara in Classic Black

I like the brush of this mascara. The mascara added length to my lashes, but still looked natural and it wasn’t clumpy. It came off easily with water, so it’s definitely not waterproof.

Our 100% Natural Nourishing Mascara lengthens and defines lashes. The brush and formula work together to give you longer, healthy looking lashes instantly. Made with Jojoba Oil and naturally moisturizing Glycerin to nourish lashes, this 100% natural mascara is gentle enough for your delicate eye area. Burt’s Bees Nourishing Mascara is safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

Glossy Lipstick in Peony Dew

This has a sheer colour that gives a subtle tint for a “My Lips But Better” look. The lipstick is more waxy than other lipsticks (i.e. MAC lipsticks), it feels like a morph of lipstick and gloss since it’s a bit tacky, but applies like a lipstick.

Our Glossy Lipstick gives you full coverage, glossy lip colour you’ll love, with natural, moisturizing ingredients that love your lips in return. These long-wearing lipsticks make lips super lustrous and keep them hydrated. Nourishing Red Raspberry Oil, Moringa Oil and Mimosa flower wax moisturize, leaving lips smooth and beautifully soft.

In the pic, I am wearing fake lashes because my lashes just weren’t showing up in the pics I was taking. In person, the mascara definitely makes a difference with my lashes. I did apply mascara after applying the lashes too and it definitely made the fake lashes look longer and thicker. I used all of the Burt’s Bees products and I also used Nude By Nature’s Perfecting Primer- check out my review here, Physician’s Formula Butter Bronzer to warm up my face a bit (because it was so pale) and Cosmania Lashes for Days in Natural Black (I grabbed them from Winners). I used the lightest shade of the eyeshadow as a highlighter on the brow bones, cheeks and nose. I used the eyeliner to tightline my upper lash line and applied it on the outer half of my lower waterline. I also applied some on the lid and smudged it out

If you’re planning on wearing Burt’s Bees products, check the weather forecast and make sure there’s no chance of rain! All of the makeup came off with just water (even the liquid foundation), so don’t use setting spray and don’t go for a swim with this makeup on. It’s probably best not to wear it if you’re going to be working up a sweat too.

I did a test where I wet a cotton pad with micelllar water (after washing my face with just water) and there was no trace of makeup left behind. Usually, after I use my makeup cloth, there’s still some residual makeup on my face. So, if you want very natural products, this is a great line to pick up and it’s all very affordable since it’s a drugstore brand!

Based on my first impressions, I’m quite impressed and I would consider buying these products and trying other shades. I think my favourite is the blush. It’s a good start to the line, but they definitely need to expand on their shade range so that everyone can benefit from their natural products!

Have you tried Burt’s Bees makeup? What are your faves?

Love,
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My Mascara Wand Collection

June 26, 2018

Hi Everyone!

After finishing a tube of mascara, I like to clean off the wand and keep it. I have gotten a lot of high-end travel-sized mascaras from Sephora, so, this way, I get to use a good quality brush to improve the mascara. I don’t know how accurate it was, but I once read that all mascaras (designer and drug store) basically have the same formulation- it’s the brush that makes the difference. Since mascara should only be kept for a few months, I personally don’t find it necessary to pay more than $15 for a mascara. I can’t justify spending more than that because I like to have different mascaras for different uses (day, night, natural, volume, etc.)

Top: Essence Volume Stylist 18Hr Lash Extension, Maybelline Great Lash, Buxom Lash Mascara, Clinique Lash Power Flutter-to-Full, Lancôme Hypnôse Bottom: Tarte Lights, Camera Lashes, Maybelline Lash Stiletto, Tarte Gifted Amazonian Clay Smart, Wet N Wild Mega Protein, Too Faced Better Than Sex

Most of them are nylon and have the tapered, cone shape. The 4th from the right is a silicone brush and it’s a bit skinnier in the middle. The Too Faced Better Than Sex and the Lancôme Hypnôse wands have that corkscrew shape. but the Lancôme one is skinnier. If I had to choose favourites, I think they’d be the Buxom, Tarte and Maybelline ones.

If you follow me on IG or you’ve read my Dupe It Out post on mascaras, you’ll know that the cult favourite, Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara, is one of my least fave mascaras. I’ve gotten a travel-sized tube twice and both times they dried out super fast, plus, the shape of the wand leaves my lashes looking clumpy and I have trouble getting in the inner and outer corners of my lashes.

I decided to put the wand to the test to see if it was the formulation of the mascara that I didn’t like or if it was both the wand and the formula. After sterilizing the brush, I dipped it into my L’Oreal Voluminous Original Mascara and did one eye with the L’Oreal wand and the other with the Better Than Sex wand. The Better Than Sex mascara was leaving clumps on the end of my lashes and again, I had trouble getting in the inner corner of my eye to get the inner lashes. The wand collects a lot of product in the middle. The top pic is a clean Better Than Sex wand and the bottom pic is when it has the L’Oreal Voluminous Original mascara on it. So, now I know that it’s both the formula and the brush that I don’t like.

I think I’m one of the few people who doesn’t like the Better Than Sex OR the L’Oreal Lash Paradise. I should try the Lash Paradise with a different brush though, because I think I don’t like it because it has the same corkscrew shape as the Better Than Sex wand.

UPDATE: I finally found a place in Canada that collects mascara wands. I’ve been hoarding these, but I really don’t use them and I’d rather it go to a good cause. In case you’re wondering, only about six of these were bought by me, the rest were deluxe samples. In a recent post on Facebook, Project Wild Wands Canada said that “Toronto Wildlife Centre is in immediate need of wands due to a large amount of bats that are there at the moment.” When I dropped them off, the volunteers didn’t seem to know anything about it, so I would suggest calling beforehand if you plan to drop by or mail them.

You can mail or drop off to:
4-60 Carl Hall Rd
Toronto, ON
M3K 2C1

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Yay! All clean and ready to send to Project Wild Wands Canada. I finally found a place in Canada that collects mascara wands. I've been hoarding these, but I really don't use them and I'd rather it go to a good cause. In case you're wondering, only about six of these were bought by me, the rest were deluxe samples. In a recent post on Facebook, Project Wild Wands Canada said that "Toronto Wildlife Centre is in immediate need of wands due to a large amount of bats that are there at the moment." You can mail or drop off to: 4-60 Carl Hall Rd Toronto, ON M3K 2C1 #projectwildwand #canada #torontowildlife #mascara #hoarder #collection #faves #makeup #discoverunder10k #makeupaddict #makeupmonday #mascaramonday #toronto #beauty #canadianbeautyblogger #makeupmess #flatlay #savethewands #wildlife

A post shared by Jen (@jencatbeauty) on Mar 11, 2019 at 2:38pm PDT

What are your fave mascaras? Do you hoard your wands too?

Love,

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This or That | Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm vs. Pixi Nourishing Cleansing Balm

June 22, 2018

Hi Everyone!

As you all know by now, I love Winners. I spotted the Pixi Nourishing Cleansing Balm and thought I’d give it a try. I already had the Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm, so I thought I’d compare the two.

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Happy #texturetuesday! It's so hot out today, hope everyone is staying hydrated and cool! #clinique #texture #cleansingbalm #takethedayoff #hot #discoverunder10k #makeup #skincare #balm #cleanse #skin

A post shared by Jen (@jencatbeauty) on Aug 28, 2018 at 4:13pm PDT

Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm – You massage this onto your dry face and wash off with warm water.

Lightweight makeup remover quickly dissolves tenacious eye and face makeups, sunscreens. Transforms from a solid balm into a silky oil upon application. Cleans thoroughly, rinses off completely. Gently helps remove the stress of pollution so skin looks younger, longer. Non-greasy. Non-drying.
Pixi Nourishing Cleansing Balm – Like the Clinique balm, you apply it to a dry face, but you have to use a damp wash cloth to remove it. I tried washing it off with just water, but you need the face cloth to wipe off the balm or else it will just feel greasy and you’ll never get it off.

A gentle cleansing balm that removes all traces of makeup as it nourishes, leaving skin silky-soft.
WINNER: Clinique’s Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm

Originally, I thought the Clinique one was more expensive, but there’s actually more in the jar than the Pixi one (according to the Sephora website) and it worked out to be cheaper. But, then I was on the Clinique site and the amount in the jar was different- I would assume Clinique’s is more accurate which makes the Clinique one a little more expensive per mL. Either way, Clinique wins in my book. I like it better because you don’t need a damp wash cloth to wipe it off and it rinses off easily with water. I also don’t love the smell of the Pixi one- it has sweet almond oil in it.

Love,

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First Impressions with Vasanti Brighten Up! Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator

June 18, 2018

Hi Everyone!

Today’s review is on the Vasanti Brighten Up! Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator. A while back, I made a Shoppers Drug Mart Beauty Boutique order and I got a bunch of samples. I kind of forgot about all the samples because I put them in a drawer, but I discovered them the other day and decided to give some of them a try.

Peeling gels slough off dead skin and then you have these gross balls of dead skin you have to wash off your face. The exfoliating scrubs have a gritty texture that helps brighten your face. The Vasanti Face Rejuvenator is similar to Tarte’s Frxxxtion stick, but it comes in a tube instead of a stick. After using it, my face felt soft and smooth. It smells better than the Pixi Peel & Polish and the Tarte Frxxxtion stick. It’s weird though, if you smell it directly, it can sort of smell like papaya mixed with plastic (even though there’s no plastic), but once you wash it off, it leaves a nice,refreshing scent behind.

Say hello to Vasanti’s #1 seller! This powerful scrub uses microdermabrasion technology to brighten, exfoliate and cleanse your skin gently to provide instant results. Enriched with papaya, professional microcrystals and aloe for a triple action power.

Exfoliates, brightens, and hydrates at once with the triple action power of papaya enzymes, professional micro-crystals, and aloe that rivals a day at the spa

Provides instant results, with visibly smoother, brighter, glowing skin after just one use

Gentle enough to be used on the most sensitive skin

Helps with it all: fine lines, wrinkles, scarring, dark spots acne, dulling skin, and large pores

To apply the face rejuvenator, you wet your face and massage a small amount in circular motions. The suggested use is 3-5 times a week and it says that one bottle will last 6 months.

RATING: 4.5/5

I can see why it’s Vasanti’s #1 seller. It smells amazing and didn’t aggravate my sensitive skin. It might be on the expensive side, but I think it’s definitely worth it. I would probably use it 2-3 times instead so I can make the bottle last longer. I will definitely be picking up a full-size bottle.

Love,

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Review | Clionadh Cosmetics Mother of Pearl Highlighter

June 14, 2018

Hi Everyone!

Last weekend, I attended Indie Expo Canada (independent beauty brands showcase their products- it’s mostly Indie nail polish brands). The majority of the vendors sell nail polish, but some had essential oils, wax, bath bombs, etc.

From one of the vendors, Clionadh Cosmetics, I picked up an absolutely gorgeous highlighter that you can also use as eyeshadow or on the body, but it’s not intended for the lips. I got the Mother of Pearl highlighter (which is on sale right now for $13 CAD). It’s stamped with a seashell impression. The products are 100% Vegan and Cruelty-Free and 100% Talc and Paraben-Free.
The Mother of Pearl highlighter is part of the Tropic of Capricorn Collection (a set of five summer-inspired marble highlighters).

Mother of Pearl: A five-toned marble consisting of grey-silver, pastel pink, green, blue and peach. The end result is a frosted pink-lilac with pearlescent notes of blue and silver.

I got home and tried it out and realized it was scented. You can choose to order scented or unscented. It smells like those sweet tart candies. Since I don’t love scented products that are sweet, I think I’d choose the unscented.
I did two swatches with my finger: the top one is what it looks like normally and the bottom one is when it’s wet. Unlike other highlighters and eyeshadows I’ve tried, it sort of sheers out if you wet it. So, if you want the maximum payoff for this highlighter, don’t wet the brush or your finger when applying it

RATING: 4/5

This highlighter is so pretty and I love the marble effect when you mix the colours. I also love to support my fellow Canadians, especially when it’s an independent brand. A lot of the times, it’s just easier to buy the mainstream products from the drugstore or Sephora because they’re so easily accessible and you see their ads when you scroll through Instagram and Facebook. Indie Expo Canada is a great way to find new brands. I also picked up some nail polishes which I will review in the coming weeks.

Love,

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