– Page 19 of 27 – JENNIFER CATHERINE

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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My Favourite Teas

June 20, 2018

Hi Everyone!

I wanted to share some of my favourite teas with you. I have green, fruity, herbal, rooibos and black teas on my faves list. They’re mostly caffeine-free or low caffeine and good either hot or cold. For all of them, you just need water and if you want, you can add a sweetener.

Check out my post on how to make milk tea with grass jelly!

ORGANIC DETOX by DAVID’S TEA – This one is nice to drink in the morning to help detox.

Green Tea – Low Caffeine

Restart and restore with our detoxifying green tea. A blend of sencha, rooibos, ginger, ginkgo and juniper berries, our mega popular Organic Detox will help cleanse your system thanks to its powerful antioxidants. You’ll love its citrusy lemongrass punch and smooth herbal notes. Now all you have to do is find a reason to detox!

Organic: Rooibos (Fair Trade Certified), sencha green tea, lemongrass, ginger, juniper berries, ginkgo. With natural lemon flavouring.

ORGANIC COLD 911 by DAVID’S TEA – This one tastes and smells quite strong and I only put it on the list because it’s good if you feel a cold coming. I don’t like the taste of it, but the peppermint helps soothe the throat.

Herbal Tea – Caffeine-Free

Bad colds require badass interventions. And this soothing herbal tea has definitely got what it takes. It has a throat-calming base of peppermint, with a sweet hint of apple and some potent little juniper berries. And with its super-comforting aroma of eucalyptus and orange, even inhaling the steam feels good. Hey, we can’t guarantee miracle results, but at least we can guarantee it tastes great.

Organic: Peppermint, apple, juniper berries. With natural eucalyptus and orange flavouring.

FOREVER NUTS by DAVID’S TEA – I love this tea during the winter because the apple and cinnamon flavours pair nicely with some yummy sugar cookies.

Herbal Tea – Caffeine-Free

You’ll go nuts for this herbal tea. With its crunchy almond slices, sweet apple bits and cinnamon bark, this tempting caffeine-free infusion turns a crazy shade of pink when steeped. Why? Because of its hint of earthy beetroot. Deliciously nutty, decidedly addictive, it’s one of our all-time bestselling blends.

Apple, almonds, cinnamon, beetroot, artificial flavouring.

ORGANIC CREAM OF EARL GREY by DAVID’S TEA – This one is nice and creamy, no milk needed.

Black Tea – Medium Caffeine

Lovers of Earl Grey tea adore this creamy alternative to the original breakfast blend. You’ll recognize the same high-quality black tea, the same citrus burst of bergamot oil, the same beautiful grey-blue petals. However this version adds a touch of vanilla, and the result is an unexpectedly rich, creamy taste experience. Try it on its own or as a satisfying tea latte.

Organic: Black tea, marigolds. With cornflowers and natural flavouring.

MARRAKESH MINT TEA by MIGHTY LEAF – I love mint teas and this is the brand I usually get at restaurants. For an equally good, but less expensive mint tea, there’s the Moroccan-style Mint Green Tea by President’s Choice.

Green Tea – Low Caffeine

Marrakesh Mint, China Gunpowder blended with refreshing peppermint, will whisk you away to cascading waterfalls deep in the mountains of Morocco. Host friends and family with this lively green tea brightened with peppermint cultivated on a mountain in Tiznit.

Green Tea, Peppermint

GREEN TEA TROPICAL by MIGHTY LEAF – I picked this up in a variety pack with the Mighty Leaf Mint Tea and thought it’d be nice to try other teas since I like the mint one. I’m glad I did because I love this one. Although, I try not to drink it every day because of the pineapple (you know that feeling in your throat when you eat too much pineapple and it gets a little scratchy?)

Green Tea – Low Caffeine

Green Tea Tropical boasts smooth green tea leaves that harmoniously blend with sweet tropical fruits to create a sensation as uplifting as a breeze of the isle of Papenoo. A healthy and refreshing blend, Green Tea Tropical makes ideal introduction to green tea.

Flower Petals, Green Tea, Natural Flavours, Natural Tropical Flavours, Pineapple

PEACHES AND CREAM by SLOANE FINE TEA MERCHANTS – This pairs very nicely with some biscotti or some macarons. It’s not overly sweet, but has a fruity and creamy taste. This is the tea pictured above with the cheesecake from The Cheesecake Factory (Ultimate Red Velvet Cheesecake and Caramel Pecan Turtle Cheesecake). The two cheesecakes are very decadent and the two slices were enough to split between three people after dinner.

White Tea

A Bai Mu Dan white tea is delicately blended with the succulence of “water honey peaches” and finished with a hint of vanilla for a truly creamy finish.

BLUEBERRY BLAST by DOLLAR TEA CLUB

Rooibos Tea – Caffeine-Free

This blend packs a burst of blueberries that will bring you back for more.

Rooibos, blueberries, white apple pieces, natural coconut chips, flavoring, mallow flowers, pink rose flower petals.

PERIODICALLY PAIN-LESS by DOLLAR TEA CLUB – This tea has a lot of claims to help a lot of different symptoms. I don’t know about all of the other symptoms, but it does seem to help during that time of the month. I don’t know if it’s a placebo effect or something, but I actually do feel better after drinking this when I’m feeling crampy.

Herbal Tea – Low Caffeine

The ingredients in this tea have been known to help alleviate symptoms of bloating, cramping, accelerate weight loss and provide dietary supplements. It helps decrease and eliminate symptoms of heartburn, indigestion, other gastro-intestinal distresses, provide relief for constipation, relieve nausea, boost the immune system, act as an anti-septic and an anti-inflammatory aid. A healthy and periodically painless solution for everyone at the time of need.

**These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.

Anise seed, cinnamon pieces, limetree petals, melissa, green mate, liquorice root, heather petals, ginger pieces, cloves, cardamom, natural flavouring.

PASSION HERBAL TEA by TAZO – I used to get Iced Passion Tea Lemonades from Starbucks every now and then, it’s been a while, but it’s still a fave and it’s so easy to make at home too.

Herbal Tea – Caffeine-Free

An exuberant herbal infusion of hibiscus, orange peel, rose hips & passion fruit flavors.

Hibiscus flowers, natural tropical flavors, citric acid, licorice root, orange peel, cinnamon, rose hips, lemongrass, fruit juice extract (color)

GENMAICHA (GREEN TEA WITH ROASTED RICE) by UJINOTSUYU – They also have Genmaicha at David’s Tea, but it’s cheaper and tastes better if you get the packaged loose leaf from an Asian supermarket.

Genmaicha is a mixture of green tea with roasted rice. It has less caffeine and tastes less astringent. This aromatic blended tea brings together the refreshing lightness, sweetness and the distinctive taste of roasted rice.

Top Row: Peaches & Cream, Genmaicha, Periodically Pain-less, Green Tea Tropical, Blueberry Blast

Bottom: Organic Detox, Forever Nuts, Marrakesh Mint, Organic Cold 911, Passion, Organic Cream of Earl Grey

What are your fave teas?

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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Leave it to the Imagination | Online Dating Chronicles: Part 12

June 15, 2018
Hi Everyone!

This is the last installment of my online dating chronicles. If you’ve missed previous posts, click the link(s) below!

Part 1: It Started One Night At A Bar Named ‘Darling’…

Part 2: The One Where Jen Swiped Right

Part 3: Play The Game, Playa

Part 4: Dipping My Toe In The Water

Part 5: How You Doin’?

Part 6: There’s Something Fishy Going On…

Part 7: Heeere, Fishy, Fishy, Fishy!!!

Part 8: Dobby Has No Master. Dobby Is A Free Elf!

Part 9: Who Am I? An Orphan Black Clone?

Part 10: Hi, I’d like one (man) to go, please!

Part 11: Why Are They Shirtless in a Public Bathroom?!

Today, I’m sharing with you what girls and guys should put in their profile pics and bios (what I think you should put).

Show an assortment of pictures:
1. Non-blurry pic that clearly shows your face and eyes (NO SUNGLASSES). Not taken by a computer webcam…who uses webcam pics anymore?
2. Show your fun side
3. Don’t just put up group shots where we have to play Where’s Waldo and wonder “is that him or is that him?”
Don’t just post selfies. I’m sure you have at least one pic where someone else took a picture of you. Use pics that are from the last two years at the longest. One guy said his pics were from a while ago and he looked like he had an athletic/average body, but in his description, he chose ‘a few extra pounds’.

For most pics that I came across on guys’ profiles, a lot were blurry or grainy. If all of their pics are too good and professional looking, you should be using Google Reverse Image Search. I’ve said it before, but if they got the pictures from Instagram, then Google Reverse image search won’t come up with any results. If you see below, I searched my own photo that I used as a profile pic and I’ve posted it on my Instagram and it didn’t show up in the results.

Next, I searched a picture that is on my blog, and it came up with my website for the results.

Remember that personal trainer I was talking about? He posted three pics that were taken from a Personal Trainer from LA or something. I used Google Reverse Image Search on all three pics. The first two had no results, but then I caught him on the last one where it showed up on a gym’s website or something. AHA! Bingpot! (I’ve been binge-watching Brooklyn Nine-Nine).

For my profile pics, I didn’t do any group shots because I didn’t want to use pics of my friends without their permission and plus it felt weird to put a pic of them on my online dating profile. I made sure to post one close-up (head and shoulders) and a full-length shot. I didn’t post any revealing pictures (no bikini pics) and none were showing any cleavage or my butt. I’m not judging anyone who uses those pics, but if you’re posting those pics, then you’ll attract guys who are looking for hookups instead of a relationship. If a guy is looking for a girlfriend, he doesn’t want a girl showing her butt or wearing lingerie in her profile pics and putting it all out there to see. Sure, guys like to look at that, but a guy doesn’t want his potential girlfriend or wife to be posting pics on social media showing everything. Leave it to their imagination 😉

The same goes for guys. Let it be a nice surprise that you’ve got a six/eight pack. Not that you have to be toned and athletic for girls to like you. If you only post pics of your body (mirror selfies or just torso), then it makes me think that’s all you have to offer: a nice bod (or you’re too into how you look).

Of course, regardless of whether your pics are revealing or not, you will still get some gross messages. So, be prepared for that.

I saw an article in my research that said you should choose profile pics (at least the main one) where you’re NOT looking into the camera. I guess because it feels like they’re staring at us as we swipe and you get self-conscious and you’re like “oh, no, he knows I’m swiping left on him!!”

I did a combo of different pictures, but the ones I used for the majority of my time on the sites were:
- a close-up pic of me looking away from the camera- wearing makeup (head and shoulders)
- me in a Supergirl costume on Halloween (I’m wearing a tank top and a fit and flare mini skirt and tights)
- A far away shot of me on the bridge from Inception
- a full-length shot of me on the beach (wearing a tank top and shorts, not a bikini)
- A pic of me wearing barely any makeup (just spot concealer) so they know what I look like without makeup. It was also from a different angle from the close up shot
For the bio, write SOMETHING! It doesn’t have to be a paragraph, but just write something that you like to get a conversation going. I put a question after mine so they could answer it: What’s your fave A&W order? In the conversation starters for POF, I asked what their fave burger place was and who was their fave Batman. I got some good responses and plan to try out those burger places…thanks, guys! (Maybe I’ll do a blog post on the burgers and rate them).

This installment ends my online dating chronicles. I hope you enjoyed it and I hope for all of my fellow single ladies out there, it hasn’t discouraged anyone from trying dating sites. I probably had more fun with it than most because I wasn’t really trying to meet someone. If it worked out that way, then it would’ve been nice, but I wasn’t really putting in 100% into finding someone. Then again, I don’t know if I’d put in 100% and try so hard to find someone because when you least expect it, someone can pop into your life. Maybe you start off as colleagues/friends and then it becomes something more. As much as I would love to have a meet cute, those only happen in movies. I could never have a meet cute because of my Resting Bitch Face (RBF). I don’t know why, but sometimes my neutral face can be bitchy or I just look like I’m sad. Then again, the right person won’t even notice if you have RBF. My mom and sister’s RBF is strong, and my dad and brother-in-law have both said something similar to my mom and sister, “that’s just your face.” Some day, I’ll find the one who says that to me, hopefully I don’t have to date a bunch of donkeys/asses to get to my unicorn (do unicorns apply to men? or is it just referring to girls?). *shrugs* either way, he’s out there somewhere.

Love,

*This blog series is not affiliated or associated with any of the online dating sites/apps mentioned. It is also not meant to discourage any person from using these sites. This was just something I thought would be a fun topic to write about and let you know about my experiences with online dating.
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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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Celebrate Canada Day with What’s Up Nails

June 13, 2018

Hi Everyone!

Canada Day is coming up in a few weeks and you can celebrate with a set of Canada Day nail vinyls!

I made a cute little temporary wrist tattoo using the stencil.

They have 8 smaller flag stickers and 12 larger ones.

Nail Polish Canada sent me a pair of Canada Day vinyls by What’s Up Nails and they’re offering these vinyls to 10 of my readers! You will receive a FREE set of the What’s Up Nails Canada Day vinyls. Use the code X7DMOSJ9II2. Click here to get your free vinyls!

Love,

*I was sent these Nail Vinyls to share a blog post and a coupon code for 10 readers to receive free Canada Day vinyls.

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“Why Are They Shirtless in a Public Bathroom?!” | Online Dating Chronicles: Part 11

June 12, 2018
Hi Everyone!

Welcome back to another installment of my online dating series! If you’ve missed any, click the links below!

Part 1: It Started One Night At A Bar Named ‘Darling’…

Part 2: The One Where Jen Swiped Right

Part 3: Play The Game, Playa

Part 4: Dipping My Toe In The Water

Part 5: How You Doin’?

Part 6: There’s Something Fishy Going On…

Part 7: Heeere, Fishy, Fishy, Fishy!!!

Part 8: Dobby Has No Master. Dobby Is A Free Elf!

Part 9: Who Am I? An Orphan Black Clone?

Part 10: Hi, I’d like one (man) to go, please!

Part 11: Why Are They Shirtless in a Public Bathroom?!

Today, I’ll be sharing some of the funny thoughts I had while I was swiping and some of the funny bios I came across. My thoughts will be in italics so you can differentiate what I was thinking as I swiped.

Tinder & Bumble:
- *has a picture of him flipping a pancake in the air*
  - Bio: The pancake landed on the floor…I’m basically useless but I’d date me
  - I was wondering if he caught it
- Bio: I’m going to be straight up with you. I need to find someone to eat the other half of my pizzas.
  - He can’t eat a whole pizza by himself?
- Bio: “Maybe one day someone will say ‘sir’ without adding ‘you’re making a scene”.
  - lol
- *profile pic is of him taking a shirtless mirror selfie in a public bathroom…but he is wearing a scarf
  - I have so many questions for this guy: was he alone in the bathroom and decided to take off his shirt and take a mirror selfie, did he wait until he was alone in the bathroom to take the pic…why is he shirtless in a public bathroom? Why is he wearing a scarf? If he’s cold, he should put his shirt back on…
- Occupation: Florist. Bio: They didn’t have firefighter so I put florist…we both put water on stuff so it made sense.
  - hahahha, that’s funny, but obviously Firefighter would be in the occupations list?
- Bio: Am I the only guy who is not looking for a one night stand?! Two night stands are much more efficient!
  - hahahahha, this probably isn’t an original line, but that’s funny and so true…wait, I only have one night table in my room.
- Occupation: Pilot. *profile pic is him in his uniform and a headset on*
  - He looks like Ed Burns! Why do all these pilots take a selfie in the cockpit? The doctors wouldn’t post a selfie in scrubs in the OR??
- Bio: That’s not my kid…or my dog! Profile pics: him with a kid and a caption that says ‘not my kid’
  - Wow, he really wants the ladies to know that it’s not his kid. Does he think every girl will see his pics and be like: *swoons* “his profile pics have him with a dog AND a child…wow he’s sooooo sensitive!!!”
- *swiping and sees that we have a mutual friend* Wow, I have a lot of mutual connections with these guys on Tinder and it’s just the one Facebook friend.
- *shirtless selfie, but he’s wearing a parka*
  - What? Why???
- Wow, he looks like a morph of Bradley Cooper and Chris Pine
- *comes across a profile with two guys* Bio says they’re bi guys in an open relationship
  - wow, their skin is amazing…is that how it is or really good phone filter?
- hehe, an Asian guy named Hans
- Bio: long romantic walks to the fridge
  - lol.
On Plenty of Fish:
- Headline: Am I what your looking for 🙂 ?
  - Ummm, no. You don’t know when to use you’re!!
- Headline: You’re Ideal guy!
  - Is he saying I’m the ideal guy?? WHY DO SO MANY GUYS NOT KNOW WHEN TO USE YOU’RE VS. YOUR!
- Education: High school. Profession: Enginner
  - how does that work? An Engineer whose highest level of education is high school?
- Profile Pics: one of him in a car (I assume it’s him) and one pic of Joe Jonas
  - Why does he have pics of himself AND Joe Jonas?
- Headline: Heey my name’s nemo & I’m not afraid to touch the butt
  - hahahahahaha!!!
- *swiping* Oh, look, a shirtless mirror selfie where his head is cut off and it’s just torso! Why are there so many of these?
- Single father has a mirror selfie with him and his daughter both wearing green face masks and bathrobes.
  - Awww! That’s so cute!! She’s holding a wristlet and her nails are painted too. I hope to find someone who will be like that when he becomes a father, but that’s just too much responsibility to date someone who already has a toddler.
- Headline: Who wants to help me get off of here?
  - What? Oh, he should really rephrase that…
On OKCupid:
- *sees guy from Tinder, but his name is different*
  - His name says Johnny…wasn’t it Vladimir on Tinder??* (names changed)
Final Thoughts on Profile Pics:
- Why are there so many shirtless mirror selfies in public bathrooms?
- I love a guy wearing sunglasses, but if you could do a close up pic showing your eyes, that would be great
- If you’ve ever worn a suit or a button up shirt (optional: with a tie), then put that in your profile pics (unless the only pic you have is with an ex-girlfriend)
Don’t need a pic with your mom, grandma, niece/nephew or dog. Let us find out your sensitive side as we’re getting to know you. If you own a dog, it’s useful to know in case you don’t like dogs or are allergic, but if it’s not your dog, then why is the dog in your pic?

For children in your pics, you should ask parents’ permission when you post a pic of their child on social media…do they know you’re using their child as bait to get girls on Tinder? It’s not like girls are posting pics with their nieces/nephews (I’m assuming, I didn’t see girls’ profiles) and writing in their bio: “Not my kid” or “proud aunt”. There were quite a few guys who wrote “proud uncle” in their bio. Uhh, okay, it’s great when you’re close with your niece or nephew and we see that you’re good with kids, but do you need to write it in your bio?

Also, don’t really need a shirtless pic. Unless you’re at the beach or something where it makes sense why you’d be shirtless. When you take a shirtless gym/mirror selfie, it makes me think you’re trying to take attention away from your face…which could be why you have a shirtless pic. About half of the guys that had shirtless pics were attractive though, so maybe just proud of their eight pack.

In my last installment, I’ll share some unsolicited advice on what pics to put in your profile and what types of things I look for when reading the bios.

Love,

*This blog series is not affiliated or associated with any of the online dating sites/apps mentioned. It is also not meant to discourage any person from using these sites. This was just something I thought would be a fun topic to write about and let you know about my experiences with online dating.
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First Impressions with Lancôme SKIN FEELS GOOD Skin Nourishing Foundation

June 11, 2018

Hi Everyone!

I picked up the Lancôme SKIN FEELS GOOD Skin Nourishing Foundation SPF23 from the Sephora sale in April. I finally had time to properly test it out. I chose 01N Nude Vanilla (for light skin with neutral undertones). It has light coverage and a radiant finish.

Make-up infused with skincare that works even after you wash it off. This lightweight skin tint is enriched with skin-loving ingredients such as vegetal glycerin, hyaluronic acid and Moringa tree extracts to actively improve and protect your skin. Its flawless sheer coverage provides a healthy luminous complexion, while its fresh water-made texture wakes up your skin and gives it an instant boost of hydration.

It has a scent that I can’t quite place. The first time I smelled it, I thought it was candy (like a sour candy). It smells sweet and fresh, but not too strong.

Wearability

I applied it without powdering my t-zone to see how it held up. I wore it for 6-7 hours and I definitely needed to blot or powder my nose. I did a close-up check on it at the end of the day and it hadn’t worn off around my nose and chin. Those areas are where other foundation tends to break up. So, I was pleasantly surprised.

I tried mixing it with Milani’s foundation and also powdered my face and it wore pretty well. After a full day of wearing makeup, it was breaking up on my chin (possibly because the Milani foundation is a lot thicker).

RATING: 5/5

Lancôme has been around a long time and their foundations are amazing. I loved the Miracle Cushion foundation and I have plans to buy the Teint Idole stick foundation once I finish up some of my other foundations. Since this foundation is light coverage, it’s not cakey at all and you can see your skin underneath. If your skin is good and you’re just looking for something to give you a radiant finish, then this is a great skin tint/foundation to pick up.

What are your fave light coverage foundations/skin tints?

Love,

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