Today, I’m reviewing my beauty expenses for 2023 and 2024. It’s already mid-November, I didn’t buy anything from the recent Sephora sale. I don’t think I plan to buy anything beauty-related for the rest of the year. If I do, I’ll update the graphs and table.
The Laura Mercier concealer was a repurchase. It’s great for covering up blemishes. I didn’t care for the Peace Out Acne Healing Dots. I prefer the Rael patches (see my pimple patch comparison post). The Kiehl’s cleanser is a nice cleanser, but I don’t know if it does anything special. I just got it to top up my order for free shipping.
2024 Top 3 Most Expensive Purchases
Dear, Klairs Midnight Blue Calming Cream – $37
Takuminowaza Japan High Class Stainless Steel Nail Clippers G-1114 – $27
Isntree Onion Newpair Sunscreen – $23
I haven’t tried the Dear, Klairs cream or the Isntree sunscreen. I know I really like the Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel, so I thought I’d try the Onion Newpair sunscreen. I’m still using the Hyaluronic Acid one. The Takuminowaza nail clippers are nice. I heard about them from my sister who mentioned that they’re in a reddit thread called BuyItForLife (For practical, durable and quality made products that are made to last). I decided to try them and they’re so much quieter than the other ones I have because they’re sharper. They’re big and you barely need any pressure to squeeze the clippers to trim your nails.
It’s been a while since I’ve posted on the blog. It’s also been a while since I’ve done a Hits & Misses post. So here are my thoughts on L’Oréal products. Some of the products I was gifted and marked with a *.
Before you read this post, please remember that we all have difference preferences and skin types. These are MY hits, misses and likes. You might love something I don’t like or dislike something I love.
HITS
Voluminous Original Mascara – This is one of my favourite drugstore mascaras. I like the wand and it’s a good price.
Rouge Signature Liquid Lip Colour in I Create 416 – I love this shade and it’s a pretty comfortable matte liquid lipstick. Sometimes I’ll put a bit of gloss on in the middle.
Colour Riche Shine Lipstick in Varnished Rosewood 904 (read my review) – I bought this one for my mom, it’s a really pretty shade and has a nice shine.
LIKES
Bambi Eye Mascara* – I liked this mascara, the shape of the tube made it a bit difficult to open. I don’t have dexterity issues, but someone who does might have trouble opening it.
Telescopic Intense Lash Length Original Mascara – This is the gold tube one. It works well for bottom lashes.
Brow Stylist Boost & Set Volumizing Brow Mascara (read my review) – This brow mascara was okay. I liked the small brush, but it made my brows feel crunchy.
Magic Skin Beautifier BB Cream Anti-Redness (read my review) – My mom uses this anti-redness bb cream and it works well. I wish it came in different shades because it’s too brown for me. It also doesn’t smell that great.
Color Riche Collection Exclusive Lipstick in J Lo’s Nude 370 – I used to looooove this lipstick. I didn’t really love the scent of the lipstick (I think it was the same as the regular Colour Riche lipsticks – either a baby powder scent or a bit floral). I went through 3 tubes of this until I decided to try other products. I prefer lip tints and balms or liquid lipsticks these days.
Color Riche Oil-Infused Nail Lacquer in 554 Carmin Parisien* – Gorgeous shade and the brush works well. I could do without the rose scent of the polish though. I prefer the regular Color Riche Nail Lacquer (if they still sell that).
Anti-Wrinkle + Firming Day Moisturizer Fragrance-Free* – This is the only skincare product I’ve liked from L’Oreal because it’s fragrance-free. It did a good job as a moisturizer too, but it’s almost the same price as a non-drugstore brand. So I’d rather use a serum or moisturizer from another brand.
Revitalift Triple Power LZR 7-day Treatment Replumping Ampoules* – These were interesting. I would prefer if they sold it in a bottle because it’s expensive for these 7 capsules.
Le Colour Clear Toning Gloss* – I haven’t coloured my hair in years, so I can only judge the claims to make your hair shine. It did make my hair look very shiny and healthy.
Dream Lengths 8-second(es) Wonder Water Lamellar Rinse-Out* (read my review) – It detangled hair well, but it didn’t last very long and it was expensive.
MISSES
Unfortunately, a lot of the skincare products has a heavy fragrance that gives me a headache, so I was unable to test how well the product actually worked. The serums were all quite tacky which I didn’t love. Here are 3 of their Revitalift serums that were too scented to try:
Revitalift Derm Intensives 12% Pure Vitaminc C, E + Salicylic Acid Face Serum* – smells like that solution to clean the hair tools at a salon
Revitalift Hydrating Smoothing Serum* – smells like hairspray from what I remember
Revitalift Triple Power LZR 0.3% Pure Retinol Night Serum* – I may be mistaken, but I could’ve sworn that all of the serums had fragrance in them. Maybe there was another reason I didn’t like this one because it claims to be fragrance-free on the website
Pure-Sugar Scrub for Oily Skin (Kiwi) – When I first tried this, I liked it, but I don’t really use scrubs on my face anymore because of my sensitive skin.
Pure Clay Masks (Charcoal Brightening Mask for Dull Skin, Red Pore Minimizing 7 Exfoliating for Rough Skin, Green Mattifying Face Mask for Oily Skin)* – As I’ve gotten older, I’ve stopped using face masks as often out of laziness. I prefer to use a mask that I don’t have to clean off. Also, clay masks can make my skin feel dry and tight and I don’t need my skin to be drier (especially in the colder months).
Concealer Infallible Full Wear, One-Swipe Complete Coverage Matte Finish – This one is too thick for my liking and just made my under eyes look cakey.
Colour Riche Ultra Matte Lipstick* (read my review) – These were a bit too matte for my liking. I probably could’ve added a gloss or balm on top, but the shades I tried weren’t ones I would’ve personally chosen. So maybe if I had tried a shade that I like, I would like them better.
Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara – This is going to be a surprise for some people, but I do not like this mascara’s wand shape. I need a more cone-shaped wand or one that’s wider in the middle, not thinner.
I have an Excel sheet of products I’ve tried and whether I would repurchase them or not. I have a few L’Oreal products that I said I wouldn’t repurchase, but unfortunately, I didn’t write why lol, so these fall into that category:
Voluminous Original Primer – I could’ve sworn I tried this, but I can’t find it in my records anywhere. I know I tried a mascara primer, but I didn’t want to splurge on one, so I got this one. I remember not liking it because it made my lashes feel so heavy once I put mascara on. It was either this or the Tarte Opening Act Lash Primer.
Excellence Crème – I’m pretty sure I’ve used one of their hair colours. I don’t dye my hair often, but I tried a few box dyes a few years ago. So I don’t really have a reference for which ones are good
Dream Lengths Shampoo with Keratin and Castor Oil & Dream Lengths Conditioner* – All I wrote in my Excel sheet was “scent was too sweet”
Extraordinary Oil Shampoo Fine Coconut Oil – I’m guessing that I didn’t like the oil in it or I didn’t like the coconut scent.
EverPure Sulfate-Free Bond Strengthening Shampoo & Conditioner* – I usually stick to regular drugstore shampoo brands in bottles (sometimes I will occasionally buy an expensive one and use it for special occasions). I think I didn’t love the scent of this and it was expensive
Stylista #BeachWaves Texturizing Mist – I don’t like the feeling of a hair texturizer
Stylista #Curls Defining Spray – I remember this being quite fragranced
I’ve tried a few discontinued products as well:
Sublime Soft Micellar Gelee Eye Makeup Remover (read my review)
Infallible Pro Contour Palette – This was the first contour palette I tried. I didn’t know what I was doing back then lol. I do remember the contour shade being a good ‘shadow’ shade though
Infallible Le Rouge Lipstick in 337 Refined Ruby – This was a pretty red (blue-red, not an orange-red), very shiny too
While I’ve tried quite a bit from the brand, it also doesn’t seem like a lot once I’ve written it all down. I haven’t tried much of their face makeup, but I don’t feel tempted to try much from the brand. I have considered trying their foundations, but then I just end up trying other brands. Especially since drugstore prices have gone up and they’re comparable to brands at retail stores.
Today, I have an updated makeup inventory list. These posts are more for me to track what products I have/had at a given time. Products in BOLD are unopened.
Primers: 7
elf Vitamin C-Bright Putty Face Primer (mini)
Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water
Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water
Physician’s Formula Spotlight Illuminating Primer (mini)
Pixi +C Vit Brightening Perfector*
Tula Prime of Your Life Smoothing & Firming Treatment Primer
Foundations: 7
bareMinerals Original Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF15 in Light
Heimish Artless Perfect Cushion in 23 Natural Beige*
Maybelline Shine-Free + Balance Stick Foundation in Classic Ivory
Maybelline Shine-Free + Balance Stick Foundation in Natural Beige
Missha M Perfect Cover BB Cream in No. 21 Light Beige
Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Custom Finish Powder Foundation in 220 Linen
Uoma Beauty Say What?! Foundation in Fair Lady T2N
Concealers: 4
L’Oreal Infallible Full Wear Concealer in 340 Fawn
Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage Concealer in SC-2: Fair To Light Skin Tones
Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Concealer in 202 Light
Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Concealer in 203 Light
Powders: 4
Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder
Becca Hydra-Mist Set & Refresh Powder (mini)
Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Microfinishing Loose Powder (mini)
Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Powder in Translucent
Blushes/Highlighters/Bronzers/Contour: 13
Bare Minerals Gen Nude Powder Blush in That Peach Tho
Burt’s Bees The Luminizer in 1906 Starlight*
Chanel Soleil Tan de Chanel Bronzing Base
Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter in 2 Fair
Honest Beauty Crème Cheek Blush in Rose Pink
Hourglass Ambient Lighting Bronzer in Nude Bronze Light
Jane Iredale PurePressed Powder Blush in Barely Rose*
Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush in Joy
Milk Makeup Lip + Cheek (mini) in Werk
Milani Strobelight Instant Glow Powder in Afterglow
Too Cool for School Artclass By Rodin Shading #01 Classic*
Wet N Wild Megaglo Highlighting Powder in Blossom Glow
Wet N Wild Dual-Ended Contour Stick in Light/Medium
Brows: 7
Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz in Ebony
Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil in Shade 6 Cool Black
2x Colourpop Clear Brow Gel
Maybelline Brow Fast Sculpt, Mascara for Brows in Clear
Shu Uemura Hard Formula Eyebrow Pencil in Stone Gray 05
Uoma Beauty Brow-Fro Blow Out Volumizing Gel in 6
Eyeshadows: 9 (I’m counting the palettes as 1)
Anastasia Beverly Hills Single in Intense Gaze
Anastasia Beverly Hills Single in Rosette
Anastasia Beverly Hills Single in Sunset
Anastasia Beverly Hills Soft Glam Palette
Charlotte Tilbury Easy Eye Palette
Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerize Cream Eyeshadow in Champagne
Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerize Cream Eyeshadow in Chocolate Bronze
Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerize Cream Eyeshadow in Oyster Pearl
Urban Decay Naked Eyeshadow Single in Half Baked
Eyeliners: 4
Annabelle Kohl Eyeliner in 116 White
MAKE UP FOR EVER Artist Color Pencil: Eye, Lip & Brow Pencil in 100 Whatever Black
MAKE UP FOR EVER Artist Color Pencil: Eye, Lip & Brow Pencil 502 Infinite Sand
MAKE UP FOR EVER Artist Color Pencil: Eye, Lip & Brow Pencil in 612 Dimension Dark Brown
Mascara: 3
Blinc Original Tubing Mascara*
L’Oreal Bambi Eye Original Mascara in 400 Blackest Black*
Pacifica Activist Volume Volume & Curl Mascara
Lips: 14
Burt’s Bees Gloss and Glow Glossy Balm in Winning in Pink*
Drunk Elephant Lippe Balm*
Etude Fixing Tint in #05 Midnight Mauve
Giorgio Armani Rouge Ecstasy Lipstick in 400
Honest Beauty Lip Crayon in Rose
L’Oreal Rouge Signature Matte Lipstick in I Create 416
One Thing Moisturizing Lip Essence*
Pacifica Vegan Collagen Complex Lip Balm*
Pixi Botanical Collagen Lip Gloss*
rom&nd Glasting Water Tint in Brick River
rom&nd Juicy Lasting Tint Bare Juicy Series in #22 Pomelo Skin
rom&nd Juicy Lasting Tint Bare Juicy Series in #23 Nucadamia
rom&nd Juicy Lasting Tint in #25 Bare Grape
rom&nd Juicy Lasting Tint in #07 Jujube
rom&nd Zero Velvet Tint in #16 Burny Nude
TOTAL NUMBER OF MAKEUP ITEMS: 72
I’m also including my nail polishes and perfumes, but not including them in the makeup item inventory count.
Nails: 13
CND Vinylux Long Wear Polish in Black Pool
CND Gel Like Effect Top Coat
Dior Base Coat Abricot
L’Oreal Color Riche Le Vernis à Huile Gel Nail Polish in 554 Carmin Parisien*
Revlon Ultimate Shine Top Coat
Static Nails Liquid Glass Lacquer Perfect Sheers Set (minis)
Today, I’m sharing what I got from Black Friday and Holiday sales! In the past two years, it seems like I do the most damage in October and November because I just can’t resist a Black Friday sale!
I’m not going to put the prices up because I’d rather not see the grand total of what I spent during the sales, but I will include the discount.
Sephora – 20% off
First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub with 10% AHA
bareMinerals Original Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF15 in Light
Shiseido – 30% off when you spend $200
Eyelash Curler (comes with replacement pad)
2 x Eyelash Curler Pads (2 replacement pads per pack, so I got 4 in total lol)
Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Concealer in 202 Light
Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Concealer in 203 Light
Overnight Wrinkle Resisting Cream (for my mom)
Kiehl’s – 25% off
Centella Sensitive Facial Cleanser
2 x Ultimate Strength Hand Salve
Bottom left is Blondo, middle is Skechers
Mejuri – 20% off when you spend $150 (I believe this is the only sale they have throughout the year)
Twist Ring in 14k White Gold
2x Single Mini Hoop in 14k White Gold
Last year, I bought the Single Mini Hoops and I’ve been wearing them ever since. I decided to get 2 more for my second piercings. To bump it up to $150, I also got the Twist ring. Last year, I got the Braided ring. I haven’t worn it much though, because it looked a bit plain on its own. So now I have the twist one to stack. Their diamond huggies are super cute too.
Old Navy – 50% off code for being a Navyist Rewards Member
Dynamic Fleece Pullover Hoodie in Icelandic Mineral
Vintage Long-Sleeve Sweatshirt in Inkwell
Printed Flannel Pajama Pants in Red Fair Isle
La Vie En Rose – 2 for 1
Soft plush Robe in Lilac Cloud
Soft Plush Robe in Black Buffalo Plaid
Naturalizer – 30% off
Blondo Skylar Waterproof Combat Boot in Black Suede (wide)
I have wide feet unfortunately and I’ve realized it’s ridiculous to put bandaids on my pinky toes when I wear my winter boots. I was on the hunt for a nice pair. I got these Blondo boots in wide. I read a few reviews, but it’s hard to decide based on a few website reviews, so I just decided to try them. They were definitely not wide. I know Blondo is known for having a narrow fit, but I thought maybe these would be okay. These were probably what would be considered a regular fit for other brands. I was wearing regular, thin socks and while my foot fit into them, they would be super uncomfortable. You could also see the shape of my foot in the boot and it just didn’t look nice. Unfortunately, they only accept returns online which means they charge $8 to ship it back to them (taking it off your refund).
The Shoe Company – 30% off?
Skechers On-The-Go Glacial Ultra-Woodlands Wide Winter Boot in Black Suede
Skechers is a brand that I own quite a few running shoes from. Even with their regular fit, they’re very comfortable. I recently purchased a wide fit sneaker and they are super comfy for me. So I got these knowing that Skechers is a brand that I like.
Spanx – 20% off for regular priced items, I think. I got something from the sale section, so it was 50% off
Spotlight on Lace Regular Waist Brief in Vintage Rose
Clockwise from top left (gray): ribbed cotton, cotton cable lace, pointelle high cut, cotton eyelash lace, period underwear
Aerie online order – 30% off sale or something
AerieREAL Period Underwear (I will be posting a review on this once I’ve tried it out)
AF Super Cropped Scoop Neck Cami in Black
Wrap One Piece Swimsuit in Black
High Neck Henley Tank Top in White
I bought the swimsuit because I realized I sold all of my swimsuits on Poshmark. Even though I haven’t gone swimming/to the beach in 6 years lol, I thought it’d be good to have one just in case. I was disappointed when I tried it on and ended up returning it. I don’t think I have a particularly long torso, but the body was so short (it was cutting into my butt). I can’t imagine a taller person wearing it. Even though you can adjust the straps to make it a bit longer, it would make the bust lower and the wrap part just wasn’t flattering to begin with…It wasn’t giving any lift to the girls. When I was thinking about buying it, I was a bit worried about whether it would stretch from wrapping it all the time, but I wanted to try it anyway since they have free returns. Back to the drawing board for this one.
Aerie in-store purchase – 10 for $40
Pointelle High Cut Bikini Underwear (high cut, peek of cheek)
Cotton Cable Lace Boybrief Underwear (regular rise, no cheek peek)
Cotton Eyelash Lace Boybrief Underwear (low rise, no cheek peek)
Ribbed Cotton Boybrief Underwear (low rise, no cheek peek)
I have previously purchased Aerie underwear a few years back and the boybrief underwear were really stretchy and too big. I got the same size in all of the underwear I bought and it just didn’t fit right. I’ve had time to try all of the underwear I bought and they all fit nicely. The Cotton Cable Lace ones are my favourite. A lot of my underwear are low rise and I’ve realized how much I like a regular rise.
With all of the online orders, I managed to get about $20 cashback from Rakuten.
(not sponsored or anything, but this is a referral link to sign up. You get $30 if you use the link and I will too).
Did you pick up anything during the Black Friday sales?
Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Medium to Full Coverage Radiant Concealer with Hyaluronic Acid in 4.5 – I ended up returning this because it was too light
bareMinerals BAREPRO 16-HR Skin-Perfecting Powder Foundation in Light 25 Neutral – I returned this one as well because it was too dark lol
Make Up For Ever Artist Color Pencil: Eye, Lip & Brow Pencil in 612 Dimension Dark Brown
Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez Soft Pinch Liquid Blush in Joy
Urban Decay Mini Original Eyeshadow Primer Potion
Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil Waterproof Eyebrow Definer in Shade 6
Shu Uemura Hard Formula Eyebrow Pencil in Stone Gray 05
Did you pick anything up from the friends and family sale
Before you read this post, please remember that we all have difference preferences and skin types. These are MY hits, misses and likes. You might love something I don’t like or dislike something I love.
HITS
Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer – This has become one of my favourites. I still need to try the Radiant Creamy Concealer.
Maybelline Fit Me Concealer – This is a great concealer, but it needs more shades.
Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer – This is another great concealer from Maybelline, but I feel like I finished it really quickly compared to other concealers.
Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Concealer – Love this concealer and would definitely repurchase.
Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Self-Setting Concealer – I really enjoyed this concealer and would definitely repurchase.
LIKES
Rimmel Wake Me Up Concealer – I tried this before I started beauty blogging so I never tested it out in different ways. I really enjoyed it, but I need to try it again to see if I would bump it up to my “Hits List.”
Cle de Peau Concealer – This is a really nice concealer, but I don’t think it’s worth it for me.
Coastal Scents Eclipse Palette (read my review) – I liked the colour correcting shades from this palette.
Milani Retouch + Erase Light-Lifting Concealer – I liked this concealer, but it needs more shades.
Colourpop No Filter Concealer – I know this concealer is affordable, but it’s hard to find the perfect shade match online. Also, this concealer oxidizes which I didn’t love.
Cover FX Correct Click Color Corrector in Brick – A Sephora associate suggested this corrector to cover a dark spot I had on my leg for my sister’s wedding. It was a very nice, blendable corrector when I bought it in 2016.
Hard Candy Sheer Envy Concealer Palette – I liked the colour correcting shades in this palette. It was very emollient and not too thick. The concealer shades weren’t quite right (even when I tried to mix them to get my shade).
Urban Decay Naked Skin Color Correcting Fluid in Green – I liked this colour corrector. It was nice and creamy.
RMS Beauty Un-Cover Up – I liked this concealer, but it started to smell different after a few months.
Maybelline Super Stay Better Skin Concealer – This concealer was okay, but I prefer the Fit Me Concealer.
NYX HD Photogenic Concealer in Green – The shade of this colour corrector is very minty-green compared to the Urban Decay one (see swatches).
Physician’s Formula Concealer Twins 2-in-1 Correct and Cover Cream – I tried this when I was first getting into makeup. It was a great starter concealer and colour corrector.
MISSES
Marcelle CC Concealer + Corrector (read my review) – This was probably the worst concealer I ever tried. It was gritty!
Bobbi Brown Intensive Skin Serum Concealer – This was too thin to provide any coverage for me. It also settled into lines and made my dry under eyes look even drier.
Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear Camouflage Concealer – This was way too tacky for me. I also got the wrong shade in this one.
Revlon Colorstay Concealer – I didn’t like the smell of this concealer. It was an okay concealer, but it doesn’t have a very wide shade range.
Tarte Shape Tape Contour Concealer – This is an unpopular opinion, but I don’t like this concealer at all. This is too full coverage for me and the scent is way too strong for me.
Sephora Bright Future Color Corrector (read my review) – I didn’t like this colour corrector.
Cover FX Correct Click Color Corrector in Yellow – I don’t know if they changed the formula since I purchased the shade Brick in 2016, but the Yellow would pull on my skin and it wasn’t as blendable.
Concealers I Own, but Haven’t Used
Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer in Neutralizer
Laura Mercier Secret Concealer
To Try
Bare Minerals BARESKIN Complete Coverage Serum Concealer
Bare Minerals BAREPRO 16-Hr Full Coverage Concealer
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Away Concealer
First Aid Hello FAB Bendy Avocado Concealer
Ilia True Skin Serum Concealer
Kosas Revealer Concealer Super Creamy + Brightening Concealer
Milk Flex Concealer
Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer
Revlon PhotoReady Candid Antioxidant Concealer
Too Faced Born This Way Super Coverage Multi-Use Sculpting Concealer
Today, I’m sharing some brands and their products that I have on my wishlist. Most of the products I want to try aren’t new, but I haven’t had a chance to try yet. I wanted to cut down on my makeup buying this year and finish up what I have before buying more. I have a lot of lip and cheek products on this list.
Biossance
Squalane + Peptide Eye Gel
Squalane + Probiotic Gel Moisturizer
Squalane + Rose Vegan Lip Balm
Squalane + Tea Tree Balancing Oil
Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil
I might get the Top Shelfies Kit from Sephora since it has 3/5 items I want to try.
Briogeo
I’ve only tried a sample of Briogeo and that was a long time ago.
Be Gentle Be Kind Banana + Coconut Nourishing Superfood Shampoo & Conditioner
Be Gentle Be Kind Kale + Apple Replenishing Superfood Shampoo & Conditioner
I’ve only tried two products from Charlotte Tilbury. While I do like both, I’m not sure I would repurchase them (Legendary Brows Eyebrow Gel and Airbrush Flawless Finish Setting Powder).
Em Cosmetics
Color Drops Serum Blush
Micro-Fluff Sculpting Brow Cream
True Gloss
Glossier
Balm Dot Com
Boy Brow
Cloud Paint
Jouer
Blush Bouquet Dual Blush Palette
Essential High Coverage Concealer Pen
Essential Lip Enhancer Shine Balm
Soft Focus Hydrate + Set Powder
Sunswept Bronzer Duo
I might get the Essential Lip Care Duo since I like the Essential Lip Enhancer Balm.
Lilah B
Divine Duo Lip & Cheek
Lovingly Lip Tinted Lip Oil
Volition Beauty
Hibiscus Unspottable Correcting Oil
Snow Mushroom Water Serum
Wander Beauty
Mile High Club Mascara
This mascara is a favourite for a lot of people. I don’t usually like to spend more than $15 for a mascara, but I might consider trying it once to see if I like it.
YSL
Glossy Stain Lip Color
Rouge Volupté Shine Oil-in-Stick Lipstick
Tatouage Couture Liquid Matte Lip Stain
There’s more on my wishlist, but these are a few I’m considering trying this year.
I thought I would do an update on my makeup collection. I’ve gotten my inventory down to a reasonable number. I think it’s reasonable enough that I don’t feel the need to participate in a Project Pan or 20 in 2020 challenge. I’ve also decided not to do a Low/No Buy this year because I think I can control myself now. I don’t really get swept up in new makeup releases. I might get samples at Sephora, but I don’t feel the need to buy the newest product until I’ve read or watched reviews.
In 2017 and 2018, I bought a bunch of products from Winners and the Mac Warehouse Sale. I didn’t even do full reviews on most of the items because they were old or discontinued. I did do quick reviews on some makeup items in my mid-year makeup inventory:
My plan is to get my collection down to 50 items by the end of the year. It’s shocking to think that I once had 340 makeup items (this number includes individual eyeshadows). It’s even more alarming to think that I paid for most of those items too. While I have been lucky enough to be sent products over the years, I’m sent more skincare products than makeup. Most of those items were impulse purchases because they were on sale or a good deal.
I thought I’d share my makeup routine lately. My skin has been getting better so I’ve been doing more No Foundation looks when I go out. If you follow me on Instagram, you’ll know that my Makeup Of The Day posts all look the same because I keep using the same products. I’m trying to finish some of my current collection before buying any more.
Below is a list of most of the products in my makeup collection. Some products aren’t included (like eyeshadows and my contour palette because I don’t use them every day). Any product that was sent to me will have a (*) after the name:
PRIMER/SPRAY
Tarte Timeless Smoothing Primer
Winky Lux Whipped Cream Primer
Smashbox Photo Finish Primerizer
Touch In Sol No Poreblem Primer
Make Up For Ever Step 1 Equalizing Primer (Nourishing)
Nars Tinted Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base in Medium (if I’m wearing eye makeup)
Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Oil (didn’t use in Summer, but will use in Fall and Winter)
Pixi Hydrating Milky Mist
Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water
Cover FX Dewy Setting Spray
For primers, I might use a mix of two (hydrating and blurring). I’m enjoying the Winky Lux Whipped Cream Primer and Touch in Sol No Poreblem Primer.
FOUNDATION
Shiseido Synchro Skin Glow Luminizing Foundation in Golden 3
Nars Velvet matte Foundation Stick in Fiji
Lancome Teint Idole Longwear Foundation Stick SPF21 in 260 Bisque N
Tarte Amazonian Clay Airbrush Full Coverage Powder Foundation in Light Neutral
CONCEALER
RMS Beauty Un-Cover Up in 11
Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer in Custard
Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Self-Setting Concealer in 21 Cinnamon
Sometimes I might just use concealer and pop on some Maybelline Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder to mattify.
POWDER
Maybelline Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder in 15 Light
Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Setting Powder in 2 Medium
Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder
BRONZER
Inglot x Jennifer Lopez Boogie Down Bronzing Powder in J217 Safari
NYX California Beamin’ Face & Body Bronzer in Free Spirit
BLUSH
Milani Baked Blush in Dolce Pink
Nars Liquid Blush in Luster
Bare Minerals Gen Nude Powder Blush in That Peach Tho
HIGHLIGHTER
theBalm Mary Dew-Manizer (mini)
theBalm Cindy Dew-Manizer (mini)
Laura Mercier Matte Radiance Baked Powder in 01 Highlight
Giorgio Armani Fluid Sheer in #7
Sometimes I’ll use my bronzer or highlighter as my eyeshadow. The NYX California Beamin’ Bronzer has a bit of a sheen, so it’s really pretty on the eyes.
EYES
Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler
Art Deco Eyeshadow Single in Off White (to set eyeshadow primer)
Make Up For Ever Artist Color Eye Shadow in M549 Dark Taupe
Make Up For Ever Artist Color Pencil in 502 Infinite Sand
Make Up For Ever Artist Color Pencil in 100 Whatever Black
Hourglass Caution Extreme Lash Mascara
Lancôme Monsieur Big Mascara*
Benefit BADgal BANG Volumizing Mascara
BROWS
Kevyn Aucoin The Precision Brow Pencil in Dark Brunette
Benefit Precisely My Brow Pencil Ultra Fine Shape & Define in 6*
Charlotte Tilbury Legendary Brows Eyebrow Gel in Perfect Brow
Colourpop Boss Brow Clear Gel
I haven’t been doing a lot on the eyes lately. I might just put a light brown and blend or use my bronzer. I’ll use a nude eyeliner along the lower waterline to brighten the eyes. Then I might tightline the upper lashline with a brown/black. For brows, I’ll either use just the Charlotte Tilbury eyebrow gel or use one of the pencils and follow up with one of the gels.
LIPS
Jouer Essential Lip Enhancer Balm
Laneige Lip Glowy Balm in Grapefruit*
Dr. Paw Paw Original Clear Balm
Perricone MD No Lip Gloss Lip Gloss*
Pixi On-The-Glow Multi-Use Moisture Stick*
I have been preferring lip balms/glosses over lipsticks lately. Just adding a bit of gloss to the lips leaves them looking plump and moisturized.
Here’s what I bought from the Sephora VIB Sale last month. I made two separate orders:
Laneige Multi Cleanser – A cleanser with Papaya Enzymes that removes makeup and impurities
Amorepacific Purify & Polish Set – A daily, cleansing and exfoliating duo to reveal visibly smoother, refreshed skin
0.5 oz/ 15 mL Treatment Cleansing Foam
0.53 oz/ 15 g Treatment Enzyme Peel Cleansing Powder
Laura Mercier Candleglow Sheer Perfecting Powder in 2 – A multipurpose, modern pressed powder sets, perfects, and finishes, leaving skin with a diffused, luminous glow
Cover FX Pressed Mineral Foundation in G20 – A talc-free powder foundation that provides buildable coverage, a weightless matte finish, and shine control with kaolin clay
Samples:
Tarte Creaseless Concealer
Stellar Limitless Foundation
I bought the two powders for my mom. G20 was a bit light and golden, so I exchanged it for N30. I don’t think we’ve found her shade match in the Cover FX Powder yet.
bareMinerals Beautiful Finish Foundation Brush – A finishing brush with synthetic fibers for sheer-to-full coverage of Original and Matte foundations
Sephora Collection Solid Clean: Solid Brush Cleaner Mini – A gentle, solid sponge and brush cleanser featuring argan oil and a warm Moroccan fragrance
Sephora Collection PRO Featherweight Powder Brush #91 – A lightweight powder brush to apply powder foundation and translucent powder to the face and body
Cover FX Dewy Finish Setting Spray – A weightless, alcohol-free setting spray that locks in makeup for up to 12-hour wear while imparting a dewy, hydrated look
Samples:
Laura Mercier Flawless Lumière Radiance-Perfecting Foundation
Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer in Vanilla, Custard, Hazelnut, Caramel
Except for the solid brush cleaner, it’s the first time buying the products above. I haven’t opened the bareMinerals brush yet, but the Sephora PRO brush is soooo soft!! The brush has a tapered end that’s really skinny, so it’s a bit top heavy. I would recommend a different brush that has a more even weight distribution if you buff/swirl powder on.
Her skin type is oily and she uses powder foundations. She tried a cushion, but ended up giving it to me because she doesn’t like liquid foundation. She dislikes eye makeup (especially mascara), so she only ever curls her lashes.
Morning Skincare – Update
Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Day Emulsion – Mom loves the Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 collection. Originally, I bought her the Day Cream, but she didn’t like that it came in a pot (for her day cream…for some reason, she’s fine with using the potted creams for nighttime). So, we got the Day Emulsion which comes in a bottle with a pump. She must like it because she bought two more bottles at the Shiseido Warehouse Sale.
She also has a few different SPF products floating around. I don’t know which one she’s currently using on her face, but we have the Shiseido Ultra Sun Protection Lotion and the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer one.
Primer & Colour Corrector – Update
Make Up For Ever Step 1 Equalizer Primer (Smoothing)
L’Oreal Magic Skin Beautifier BB Cream- Anti-Redness (read my review) – My mom said the smell is starting to affect her too, so if anyone knows of a product that’s similar, please let me know!
Foundation – Update
After the Sephora MicroSmooth Baked Foundation, she used the Shiseido Sheer and Perfect Compact Foundation in I20 Natural Light Ivory. This was a nice foundation, but the shade wasn’t quite right and she finished it fairly quickly compared to the Sephora foundation because the pan isn’t very deep.
Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Powder Foundation in 5.5 – The shade 5.5 is a bit dark, so if she were to repurchase, she’d go down a shade or two. She’s enjoying the foundation – it’s very smooth and looks beautiful. One thing she doesn’t like about the compact is that it comes with a sponge and the middle part with the powder flops back and forth (like the Physician’s Formula Butter Bronzer), powder collects in the sponge section which is wasteful.
Concealer – No Update
Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-In-Place Flawless Wear Concealer in Warm Light Medium
She still uses this concealer and she likes the consistency.
Eyes – No Update
Tweezerman Lash Curler
She doesn’t wear eyeshadow or mascara.
Blush – Update
Lancôme Blush Subtil in Aplum – Plum-mauve blushes are her favourite! The compact for this blush isn’t the best though. My mom accidentally dropped it and it chipped off the edge because it’s just plastic. Also, why do high end blushes have to come with those useless brushes?
Lips – Update
MAC Patentpolish Lip Pencil in Spontaneous – I bought this at the MAC Warehouse Sale and my mom is just using it to finish.
MAC Cremesheen Glass in It’s A Strike – Same as the patentpolish pencil, this is not the right shade for her and she’s just using it to finish it.
Makeup she has in her purse to touch-up throughout the day:
Clinique Superpowder Double Face Makeup in Matte Neutral – to get rid of the shine.
MAC Lustre Lipstick in Midimauve – I gave her this one since it’s a more sheer lipstick than the satin lipsticks. It has a bit of pigment and shine – looks more like a tinted balm.
Vaseline – glossy and easy to apply without a mirror.
This time last year, I had 340 makeup products (check out my post). By December of last year, I decluttered a lot and finished quite a few products (check out my post). I cut my collection in half and now my collection is down to 100! I hope to continue streamlining my collection. Maybe next year, I’ll have 50-75 products.
Hi Everyone! It’s been almost six months since Part 1 of Revisiting My 2018 Favourites. So, here’s Part 2! This post is for July to December’s beauty faves.
BCL Spa Sugar Scrub Lavender + Mint – I absolutely loved this. It smelled amazing and the scrub made my skin feel so soft and smell good.
Repurchase? If I could find it for cheaper than $40 somewhere, I would! I’ll have to check salons in Toronto to see if they sell in-store. I’ve only found the brand on Amazon for $50+ or on wholesale sites.
BCL Spa Dead Sea Salt Soak Lavender + Mint – As much as I loved this, I probably wouldn’t buy it again since it’s so expensive. I would rather buy the sugar scrub.
Repurchase? No.
Sonia Roselli Water Balm – Loved this!! It was a great moisturizer and primer, I will definitely get this again!
Repurchase? Yes!
Tarte Tarteist Creamy Matte Lip Paint in Birthday Suit – I liked this, but I need to find a shade that’s more my style.
Repurchase? Yes.
Colors by Llarowe Nail Polish in The Deep End – This is a pretty mermaid-y shade.
Repurchase? I would repurchase from the brand, but I probably wouldn’t buy a similar shade. I want to streamline my nail polishes and purchase shades that don’t have shimmer (neutrals, reds, wines, etc.)
AUGUST
Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge -I love the flat side of this sponge.
Repurchase? Yes! It would be great if I can find a 4-pack for $20 again!
Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Oil – I enjoyed the little deluxe sample I had!
Repurchase? YES!
Soo’Ae Juice Mango Glow Mask – No offense to face masks, but I feel like (for the most part), they all feel the same. Unless one is specifically meant for something like drawing out impurities, the hydrating, brightening, plumping sheet masks all make my face feel the same.
Repurchase? Yes.
elf Studio Matte Lip Color in Tea Rose -This lipstick felt nice for a matte lip colour. This specific shade did not look good on me. It looked okay once I topped it with gloss though.
Repurchase? No, I prefer satin finish lipsticks.
Laneige BB Cushion Hydra Radiance SPF50 – As someone who deals with acne, I can’t just use this product. I need something with a bit more coverage. This is a very nice and affordable product, but I need something with a bit more coverage than what this offers.
Repurchase? Possibly (when my skin is clear and when they have a better shade range). Although the scent is quite strong.
SEPTEMBER
Benefit Precisely, My Brow Ultra Fine Shape & Define in 6 – LOVE THIS!
Repurchase? Absolutely!
Diorshow Bold Brow in 002 Dark – I love this, but won’t repurchase until they expand the shades (if that ever happens). The shade 002 Dark is the darkest and it leans gray.
Repurchase? I would if they had a darker shade.
OPI Nail Lacquer in Step Right Up! – I love this shade! It’s a beautiful sheer pink.
Repurchase? If It’s still available when I finish my current bottle, I would definitely repurchase.
Clinique Acne Solutions Clinical Clearing Gel– This gel works well, but since it has salicylic acid, it can make my face a bit itchy and/or red.
Repurchase? Maybe.
Pixi Aspyn Ovard Glow-y Powder in Santorini Sunset – This is a beautiful champagne highlighter.
Repurchase? No longer available.
OCTOBER
Tarte Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Airbrush Foundation in Light-Neutral – Loooove this powder! I think I need a lighter shade though.
Repurchase? Yes!!
Thayers Witch Hazel Alcohol-Free Cucumber Toner – I think I’m allergic to witch hazel (or at least, I can’t tolerate a heavy concentration of it).
Repurchase? No.
The Face Shop Multi-Layer Cotton Pads – I love these! They are much stronger than the Muji Peelable Cotton Pads.
Repurchase? Yes.
Unknown Brand of Cotton Swabs (flat end and pointy end) – These are really useful! I like that it has a pointy end.
Repurchase? Yes.
Tarte Timeless Smoothing Primer – I love this primer.
Repurchase? Yes.
NOVEMBER
Kopari Coconut Deodorant – It’s aluminum-free! It also smells really nice when you sniff it from the tube, but it can sometimes be too much for me (especially since I don’t looooove coconut). Also, since it’s got a strong scent, I feel like I shouldn’t wear my perfume when I do wear it because it will clash.
Repurchase? Yes, I would try one of the other scents (or even unscented).
Etude House Lip & Eye Remover – This is great for removing my makeup.
Repurchase? Yes.
Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer in Light – Really love this concealer.
Repurchase? Yes.
TULA Acne Clearing + Tone Correcting Gel– When I first got this, I was using it twice a day and then I stopped for a bit and realized that while it does work, my face was so dry because of the salicylic acid. I’ve cut down to using it only when I feel a pimple coming (like a spot treatment) instead of using it all over.
Repurchase? I would.
DECEMBER
NARS Soft Matte Complete Concealer – This concealer is awesome for spot concealing and I would definitely purchase in a lighter shade as an under eye concealer.
Repurchase? Yes.
The Body Shop Aloe Calming Foaming Wash – This was very gentle and I love foaming cleansers.
Repurchase? Yes, but on sale.
EcoTools Shading Brush – Love this brush. It’s so soft!!
Repurchase? I would definitely buy more EcoTools brushes.
Kat Von D Shade + Light Contour Palette – I really just wanted to try this once to see why everyone loved it so much. I’m glad that they offer a duo now instead of having to get all six shades.
Repurchase? I love the sombre shade for contouring, but I would rather buy another brand for obvious reasons.
Over the weekend, I went to the Shiseido Warehouse Sale in Markham. Thanks to my friend who let me know about it, I was able to score some goodies. They have a lot of high end brands like NARS, Bare Minerals, Buxom, Laura Mercier, Clé de Peau, obviously Shiseido and other hair and fragrance brands.
It’s a three day sale starting Friday for VIPs who have tickets and then on Saturday and Sunday, it’s open to the public (no ticket needed). It’s located at 303 All State Parkway in Markham.
If you’ve seen my haul from the MAC Warehouse Sale from 2017, then you’ll know that I went crazy buying stuff (especially lipsticks) back in 2017. This time, I had more self control (it was also because I just spent a lot of money during the Sephora sale. My Sephora haul will be up on the blog on Friday! For the MAC Sale, you need a ticket to get in for all three days and my sister got me tickets in September and December 2017. For the Shiseido sale, you don’t need a ticket for Saturday and Sunday, so it’s more accessible and I don’t have to rely on my sister to get it from work.
At the MAC sale, the first time I went, I probably bought over 20 products. At the Shiseido sale, I only bought 9 products while my mom bought quite a few skincare products because she loves Shiseido’s Benefiance WrinkleResist line. I’ve banned myself from buying any eyeshadows until I hit pan/finish a few shades first. Maybe I can get some next year.
I was pleasantly surprised that they had so many products left. While I’m sure there was a much bigger selection of complexion products on Friday and Saturday, they still had my shades in two of the products I wanted to try.
Buxom Full-On Lipstick in Dolly | $10
I couldn’t pass on this deal and the shade is so beautiful. It’s my kind of nude-pink lipstick!
NARS Full Vinyl Lip Lacquer in Santo Domingo | $12 (not pictured because I accidentally missed it)
This is a pretty shade and I wanted to try a lip lacquer.
NARS Liquid Blush in Luster | $15
This is such a pretty shade, I had to get it. I also want to get more cream and liquid products because they’re easier to blend and won’t look powdery.
NARS Velvet Matte Foundation Stick in Fiji | $18
I have been wanting to try the NARS foundation stick for a while to compare it to my others.
Clé de Peau Concealer in Beige | $55
I’ve heard good things about this concealer, but it retails for $95 in Canada and I’m not about to spend that much for a concealer stick. While $55 is still quite expensive, I wanted to try it and they had a shade that matched me pretty closely.
Shiseido Synchro Skin Glow Luminizing Foundation in Golden 3 | $18
I was so excited to see that they had my shade in this foundation. My mom said this was the shade that has been the closest shade match to my skin out of all the foundations I’ve been testing out lately.
Shiseido Ultra Sun Protection Lotion for Face/Body SPF50+ (For Sensitive Skin & Children) | $20
I thought I’d give this a try since it was more than half off the retail price.
Dolce & Gabbana 3 L’Imperatrice Pour Femme | $35
I liked this perfume a few years back and I had a sample of it. While it’s more floral than I usually prefer, I still really like it and it was $35 so I had to get it.
Joico Moisture Recovery Conditioner | $10
I know Joico is a higher end brand of hair products at the drugstore so I wanted to try it.
I would definitely go again next year and we probably will be going so my mom can stock up on her Shiseido products. I think I would go on a Saturday, but it’s nice to know they have so much stuff left after the two days. They did have a lot of complexion products sold out (especially NARS foundations), but they still had some really nice products left over.
Before you read this post, please remember that we all have difference preferences and skin types. These are MY hits, misses and likes. You might love something I don’t like or dislike something I love.
Surprisingly, I haven’t tried a whole bunch of products from Maybelline even though it’s an affordable drugstore brand. I think I have a lot of difficulty finding my shade match with their complexion products. I haven’t tried any of their blushes or eyeshadow palettes and only tried one lipstick so far, but here’s my list:
HITS
Instant Age Rewind Dark Circle Eraser Treatment Concealer – This is a great concealer for me, I love how natural it looks. The shade Light might be a bit too light, I’ve gotten a recommendation to try the Neutralizer, so I might try that.
Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder – I love this powder, but the shade 15 Light is a bit pink on me. Maybe it will be better during the summer time.
Fit Me Concealer in 10 Light – Great drugstore concealer!
Fit Me Shine-Free + Balance Stick Foundation in 130 Buff Beige (read my review) – I actually really loved this, even in the summer time. I don’t think it’s available any more though.
Face Studio Master Chrome Highlighter – I love this highlighter, although for me, 100 Molten Gold is a bit too coppery gold for my skintone, but I would definitely repurchase in a different shade.
Color Show Kohl Liner – I loved the nude shade they used to have in this, but they don’t have it anymore. I used to put it on my lower waterline and it would instantly brighten my eyes.
Lash Sensational Full Fan Effect Mascara Washable (read my review) – This is a great mascara, I definitely want to try the waterproof to see if it holds a curl better
Great Lash Mascara (Black or Clear) – This is a classic. The clear one is great for using as brow gel too.
Volum’ Express The Falsies Big Eyes – From what I remember, this is a great mascara.
Volum’ Express The Falsies Mascara – Loved this mascara, need to try it again at some point to compare it to others.
SuperStay 24 Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick in 65 Seductress – A Toronto makeup artist posted a pic of her bride and I commented on it saying her lip colour was beautiful, she replied back saying it was this liquid lipstick mixed with a lipliner and gloss. I see why everyone loves this liquid lippie! I’m not one for matte lipsticks, but this one is super long-wearing and you can top with a gloss in the middle to give that 3D effect.
LIKES
Hydrate & Smooth Fit Me Foundation – The shade I chose in this isn’t right, so that’s probably why I didn’t love it. It was way too orange. I also don’t love that this has no pump.
Matte & Poreless Fit Me Foundation – Same deal as the Hydrate & Smooth one.
Eye Studio Color Tattoo 24HR Cream Gel Eye Shadow in Barely Branded – I am still debating whether I like cream shadows. I think I prefer sticks when it has shimmer. So, I might like one that’s matte.
Total Temptation Washable Volumizing Mascara – This is one mascara that I’m not crazy about. It’s okay, but I prefer the others.
Master Precise Curvy Liquid Liner (read my review) – This doesn’t have a really precise tip and it’s not super black, so if that’s what you’re looking for, skip this one.
MISSES
Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser – I didn’t like the silicone feel of this.
Master Prime Blur + Redness Control Primer – This didn’t do anything to correct my redness.
Eye Studio Brow Precise Pencil – I didn’t like the waxy feel of this pencil.
Color Show Nail Lacquer – I prefer a fat brush, this has a round skinny brush. For me, I prefer fat because it’s less likely to be streaky since I’m no expert at applying nail polish.
There’s a few products that I tried a long long time ago before I knew a lot about makeup…before using primer. So, here’s what I remember about them:
Baby Lips Lip Balm – I think it was okay, it wasn’t anything special.
SuperStay Better Skin Foundation – I used this a while back before I knew I was supposed to use primer. I don’t even know if I used to use a damp sponge when applying this. The shade I got was way off. I remember it being okay, but I’m not curious enough to to try it out again.
SuperStay Better Skin Concealer + Corrector – I remember it being pretty good, but didn’t love the chemical smell of it (Fit Me doesn’t have that smell). I don’t think the shade was right either.
