• L’Oréal Paris | My Hits & Misses

    July 31, 2023

    Hi Everyone!

    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 *.

    Check out my other Hits & Misses posts!

    MAKEUP || Primers | Foundations | Powders | Concealers | Brows | Mascara

    SKINCARE || Eye Creams

    BRANDS || Bobbi Brown | Burt’s Bees | Maybelline | Nude by Nature | NYX | TULA | Volition Beauty

    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.

    Love,

    Read More
  • maybelline fit me loose finishing powder

    Powders | My Hits & Misses

    March 20, 2020

    Hi Everyone!

    I’m sharing my hits and misses for all powders that I’ve tried. This includes setting and finishing powders as well as powder foundations.

    Check out my other Hits & Misses posts!

    MAKEUP || Primers | Foundations | Concealers | Brows | Mascara

    SKINCARE || Eye Creams

    BRANDS || Bobbi Brown | Burt’s Bees | L’Oréal | Maybelline | Nude by Nature | NYX | TULA | Volition Beauty

    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

    Bare Minerals Barepro Performance Wear Powder Foundation – I got a deluxe sample of this from Sephora as a promo. I really enjoyed it AND it was even in the wrong shade, but it was nice on the skin. Would definitely buy a full size.

    Bella Pierre Mineral Foundation – This was the first mineral foundation I tried. This woman at a kiosk sucked me into her chair and put this on me. It was beautiful and I ended up buying this powder, a blush and others.

    Shiseido Sheer Mattifying Compact Powder Foundation (read my review) – This is no longer around, but Shiseido still has some gorgeous powders. You just have to hope they don’t discontinue them.

    Laura Mercier Matte Radiance Baked Powder Compact – I think this is meant to use as an all-over face powder to illuminate, but I use it as a highlighter. It’s perfect for a subtle glow.

    Maybelline Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder – I really do love this powder, but the shade isn’t right. I wish they had more shades or a translucent option.

    Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder – This is my fave translucent setting powder I’ve tried.

    Tarte Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Airbrush Foundation – This powder looks beautiful. I just need to get it in the right shade.

    Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Finishing Powder – This made my skin look like it had a filter on it. I don’t know if it was just a combo of a good skin day and a nice primer, but it looked really good every time I used it.

    charlotte tilbury airbrush flawless finish setting powder

    LIKES

    Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Setting Powder – It’s a beautiful powder, BUT it pans so quickly and there’s only 3 shades. Fair is too light and Medium is too dark.

    Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder – I don’t find anything special about this one. I had a deluxe sample and the powder would come out in clumps. I didn’t store it where any moisture could get to it, so I don’t know why it was like that.  

    Rimmel Clear Complexion Clarifiying Powder – This was a good powder from what I remember. I want to try the Rimmel Stay Matte one.

    Innisfree No Sebum Mineral Powder – This was a nice powder, but I didn’t like the scent of it. I don’t think any powder needs to be scented.

    Burt’s Bees Natural Mattifying Powder* – I had the wrong shade of this, so it made me look really pale. It was a nice pressed powder that did mattify. I probably wouldn’t repurchase though (even if it was the right shade).

    Revlon Nearly Naked Powder – This was a nice powder that felt silky smooth. It doesn’t have the best shade range and it’s fairly expensive for a drugstore powder. I’d rather get a bare minerals powder for the price.

    Smashbox Photo Filter Powder Foundation – This felt silky smooth, but the shade I got was way too light, so I can’t say for sure if I really liked it or not. It made my skin look patchy because it was too light.

    Nude by Nature Mattifying Pressed Setting Powder* – It mattified and gave nice coverage. It wasn’t my fave setting powder though.

    hourglass veil translucent setting powder

    MISSES

    Bobbi Brown Nude Finishing Illuminating Setting Powder – If this didn’t have the shimmer in it, it would be a beautiful powder.

    KVD Beauty Lock-It Brightening Powder – I bought this at Winners when I wanted to try baking because it was before I knew that baking powder is its own thing. I also mistakenly bought a shade meant for dark skin tones. I tested it out anyway just to see if I liked the consistency, but it was way too heavy for my dry under eyes.

    Catrice Light Illusion Loose Powder (Yellow Matt) – I didn’t like this because as I’ve said, I have dry under eyes and it just emphasized it. If you have oily skin, it might work for you.

    To Try

    • Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder
    • Lancôme Long Time No Shine Setting Powder
    • Rimmel Stay Matte Long Lasting Pressed Powder
    • Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Custom Finish Powder Foundation

    What are your favourite powders?

    Love,

    Products marked with (*) were sent for review.

    Read More
  • hera black cushion foundation

    Foundations | My Hits & Misses

    March 17, 2020

    Hi Everyone!

    I’m sharing my hits and misses for all foundations that I’ve tried (that I can remember).

    Check out my other Hits & Misses posts!

    MAKEUP || Primers | Foundations | Powders | Concealers | Brows | Mascara

    SKINCARE || Eye Creams

    BRANDS || Bobbi Brown | Burt’s Bees | L’Oréal | Maybelline | Nude by Nature | NYX | TULA | Volition Beauty

    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.

    Just a heads up that there are quite a few cult fave foundations that I don’t love as much as everyone else. There are more foundations that I’ve tried samples of, but 1) this post would be way too long and 2) I don’t have a full opinion on them since I only used them a handful of times. This post will only include liquids/creams/cushions/sticks. I will include powder foundations in my Powder Hits & Misses post since I haven’t tried as many. It will also only include foundations that are still available. I’m going to keep my little reviews as short as I can especially if I have a full review of the foundation. I will link them so you can read them if you’d like.

    In no particular order, here are my Hits, Likes and Misses:

    Hits

    Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick (read my review) – This might be my favourite stick foundation I’ve tried to date. I even had the wrong shade. It was perfect for a girls trip. I packed this to use as foundation/concealer. This is one of my favourite Bobbi Brown items (Bobbi Brown Hits & Misses). I  bought it at the MAC Warehouse Sale and would definitely pay full price for it.

    Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Longwear Foundation Stick SPF21 – This would be my 2nd favourite stick foundation.

    Lancôme Skin Feels Good Skin Nourishing Foundation (read my review) – Love this. Even though it’s labelled as a foundation, it’s more like a tinted moisturizer. If only they had more shades available (I’m in between shades).

    Lancôme Miracle Cushion Foundation – I need to find the right shade because the one I was using is too pink for me.

    Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer – I feel like this has a little more coverage than what I’d consider a tinted moisturizer. It’s a great product though.

    dior backstage face & body foundation

    Likes

    Shiseido Synchro Skin Glow Luminizing Foundation – Beautiful foundation and one of the closest matches I’ve ever had. It does have fragrance in it and oddly enough, it doesn’t smell that great. I would rather try the self-refreshing one that doesn’t have any fragrance in it.

    Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation (read my review) – While this was a beautiful foundation, it just didn’t last long on me. I don’t know if the primers I tried were just too slippy or something. It looked beautiful on the skin, but I just couldn’t find the right shade match. It was either too pink or too orange.

    Laneige BB Cushion Hydra Radiance SPF50* (read my review) – Nice cushion foundation, but I’m between shades.

    Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Invisible Cover Foundation – Can’t find a good shade match, but this is a nice foundation.

    Maybelline Fit Me Hydrate + Smooth Foundation (read my review) – I wish this had a pump. I’m also not crazy about the scent of this. Not my fave foundation.

    Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick (read my review) – I liked it, but didn’t love this enough. It was just too full coverage for me (even when I used a very thin layer).

    Hera Black Cushion Foundation – My sister got this for me in Korea. I just picked a shade that I thought would be okay based on pictures. Even though I’m quite light, the shade is too light for me. Plus, this is very fragranced (like a lot of K-Beauty products). The foundation itself is nice, but the fragrance is just too much for me. Plus, it’s hard for me to get in Canada. If it is available, it’s more than I’m willing to spend. So, I’d rather spend the money on something else.

    The Ordinary Serum Foundation (read my review) – not my fave, but not my least fave.

    The Body Shop All-in-One BB Cream (read my review) – At the time I wrote the review for this, I really enjoyed it. Since then, I’ve tried other products I prefer more.

    Perricone MD No Foundation Serum Broad Spectrum SPF30 (read my review) – Nice foundation that looks natural and provides sheer coverage.

    shiseido synchro skin luminizing glow foundation

    Misses

    For the foundation misses, there are ones that either just didn’t impress me much, didn’t provide enough coverage or had too much coverage.

    Almay Clear Complexion Make Myself Clear Makeup* – I don’t really want makeup that has salicylic acid.

    NYX Bare With Me Tinted Skin Veil* (read my review) – not my shade and coverage was too light for me.

    Bali Body BB Cream (read my review) – This provided no coverage whatsoever.

    NYX HD Studio Photogenic Foundation – Broke me out and smelled like plastic.

    Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-in-1 Foundation and Concealer – Was way too thick for me and shade range wasn’t great.

    Garnier BB Cream – Shade range is terrible and it made my eyes water. Too much alcohol in it??

    Nars Velvet Matte Foundation Stick –  I bought this at the Shiseido Warehouse Sale and it just didn’t wow me. It sounds kind of mean, but there’s a reason that this is rarely on lists of Fave Stick Foundations.

    Burt’s Bees Goodness Glows Liquid Foundation – Washed off easily with water and looked patchy on dry spots. What would happen if I wore this when it’s raining or went on a Maid of the Mist boat tour??

    Nude by Nature Luminous Sheer Liquid Foundation* (read my review) – Not enough coverage.

    Nude by Nature BB Cream* (read my review) – Not enough coverage.

    Wet N Wild Photofocus Foundation – Shade was wrong, too matte for me. I know they came out with a dewy version, but I also didn’t like the smell or the fact that it used a spatula instead of a pump.

    The following foundations are ones I can’t give a definitive opinion on:

    Becca Ever-Matte Shine Proof Foundation – I think I had the wrong shade and also knew nothing about applying it. I ended up throwing this out despite not using it very often.

    Holika Holika Gudetama Photo Ready Cushion Foundation – wrong shade. Wasn’t my fave cushion though.

    Maybelline Superstay Better Skin Foundation – This was one of the first liquid foundations from the drugstore that I bought. It smells like chemicals, but I remember it being nice (I had the wrong shade though).

    Nars Sheer Glow Foundation – I can’t say if I like or hate this because I bought the wrong shade. I bought this before I knew what I wanted in a foundation. I never fully tested it out. I would prefer a foundation that has a pump (instead of buying one separately and NARS has nice foundations that come with a pump).

    To Try

    • Bite Changemaker Micellar Foundation
    • L’Oréal Infallible 24Hr Freshwear Foundation
    • Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer
    • Make Up For Ever Matte Velvet Skin Full Coverage Foundation
    • Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation

    What are your fave foundations?

    Love,

    Products marked with (*) were sent to me for review.

    Read More

  • Revisiting My 2018 Favourites | Part 2

    May 17, 2019

    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.

    Click here if you missed Part 1!

    JULY

    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.

    Do you still love your favourites from last year?

    Love,

    Read More

  • Worth It? | Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick

    January 18, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m reviewing a cult favourite: The Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick! This is the first Hourglass product I’ve purchased, but I definitely have other Hourglass products on my wishlist!

    I’ve tried a few different foundation sticks at this point: Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick, Maybelline Fit Me Stick and the Lancome Teint Idole Foundation Stick. I bought the Lancome one at the same time as the Hourglass one and I’ve been testing both of them out. I asked my IG followers which one to review first and the majority chose the Hourglass. I really love foundation sticks, they’re so easy to pop into your bag and they can double as a concealer! I really loved the Maybelline Fit Me Stick and the Bobbi Brown stick is beautiful, but I don’t have the right shade match. After I’ve reviewed both the Lancome and Hourglass, I will compare them to see which I prefer.

    The Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick is full coverage with a natural finish. For me, it looks more like a matte finish. I have the shade Ivory which is described as a light medium, cool undertone. It’s a very good shade match for me.

    The whole tube is so shiny, it’s kind of a pain to wipe off your fingerprints on the outer part and when you take the lid off, but let’s see if the foundation itself is worth it!

    A revolutionary foundation stick with the coverage of a concealer, the fluidity of a liquid, and the weightlessness of a powder in a long-wearing waterproof formula for undetectable full coverage. The unprecedented concentration of pigment in this foundation provides maximum coverage with minimum product, concealing all discoloration and imperfections for flawless skin with a seamless finish.

    Hourglass advises you to do the following when applying it: Dot 3 triangular dots in the center of both sides of the face – 3 dots on the chin, 3 dots on the tops of the cheekbones and 3 dots on the forehead.

    It would be interesting to see if the Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Brush makes a huge difference in how it applies since it’s meant for it, but I don’t really want to splurge on a brush especially when I prefer using sponges over brushes.

    Test #1

    Base: Tarte Maracuja Oil, Make Up For Ever Step 1 Equalizer Primer (Smoothing)

    Application: Damp Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge

    Setting Powder: Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Finishing Powder on t-zone and under eyes

    After 3 hours, it was getting a bit shiny on my t-zone. My cheeks and forehead still looked really good, but my nose area and chin were breaking up and looking a bit cakey.

    Test #2

    Base: Tarte Maracuja Oil (applied as moisturizer), Make Up For Ever Step 1 Equalizer Primer (Hydrating), MAC Strobe Cream in Pinklite

    Colour Correction: used Laneige BB Cushion Hydra Radiance to cover up some redness around nose

    Application: used a dry cushion puff

    Concealer: Maybelline Age Rewind Dark Circle Eraser Concealer in Light

    Setting Powder/Spray: Innisfree No Sebum Mineral Powder on t-zone and under eyes, Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray

    After a couple hours, it was breaking up, it looked dry and cakey. From far away, it looked flawless, but when you got up close and personal, it looked pretty bad.

    Test #3

    Base: Tula Hydrating Day & Night Cream (as moisturizer), half side of face Tatcha The Silk Canvas Protective Primer, other half Tarte Timeless Smoothing Primer

    Application: Damp Sponge

    Concealer: Maybelline Age Rewind Dark Circle Eraser Concealer in Light

    Setting Powder/Spray: None

    Upon close inspection, both sides of my face look the same (The Tatcha and Tarte primers both smooth out the skin for the foundation). Similar to Test #2, it looks flawless from a distance, but up close you can definitely tell I’m wearing makeup. It looks a bit cakey. Feels a bit tacky in the areas that don’t have any powder products. I contoured, bronzed and applied blush and highlighter. I used the Kat Von D Shade & Light Contour Palette to sculpt (sombre) and to set under eyes (lucid). I feel like both primers performed the same.

    After two hours, the redness on my chin and under my nose were peeking through.

    RATING: 4/5

    I was planning to test this out a few more times, but I think I already know what my opinion of this foundation is: I like it, but don’t love it. I will continue to experiment with it and let you know if I find a combo of products that I like.

    I’m not a full coverage girl, I prefer sheer or medium coverage with a dewy finish because my skin is dry. I like it enough to finish it, but I do have to make sure to use an illuminating primer/highlighter underneath or maybe mix it with a dewy foundation or moisturizer. Maybe I will use it as more of a concealer.

    Have you tried this foundation stick? What did you think about it?

    Love,

    jen
    Read More

  • Review | L’Oréal Colour Riche Ultra Matte & Colour Riche Shine Lipsticks

    December 17, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m sharing some lipstick swatches with you! I was so excited to receive some products from L’Oréal. I received 4 shades of the Ultra Matte Lipstick and 3 of the Shine Lipsticks. All of them are gorgeous shades. Let’s start with the Ultra Mattes:

    Find your perfect nude lipstick shade with intense hydration and a super matte finish. Color Riche Ultra Matte is a highly pigmented, ultra-rich matte collection curated with lip tone nude shades to enhance your natural hue. The end result, your rich nude lips but better. In one stroke, experience rich lip color and comfortable wear.

    According to the website, they have 16 shades in this collection. The ones I received are the more nude shades.

     Colour Riche Ultra Matte are formulated with silky oils providing intense hydration for all day comfort and wear, while feeling light on lips. A luxurious lipstick formulated with a light diffusing gel that brings a soft-focus focus effect on the lips, making lips appear smooth and matte without a dry look. From warm pink shades to skin flattering nudes, find the perfect nude hue.

    974 Full-Blown Fawn, 978 All Out Pout, 981 Cutting Edge Cork, 983 Utmost Taupe

    Personally, I prefer lipsticks with a bit of shine. I often have chapped lips, and as we all know, matte lipsticks emphasize how dry they already are. I did give the lipstick a try and it didn’t feel dry on the lips; drier than I prefer, but it felt like a comfortable matte lipstick. Obviously, since it’s not a liquid lipstick, it did transfer. To me, the lipsticks kind of smell the same as my J Lo one, but other people have said it smells different to the regular L’Oréal lipstick scent. So, if you don’t like the usual scent, give the testers a whiff before buying.

    As much as I love L’Oréal lipsticks, I don’t think the Ultra Mattes are for me. So, let’s move onto a formula that I prefer: the Colour Riche Shine Lipstick.

    916 Luminous Coral, 920 Lacquered Strawberry, 926 Glassy Garnet

    These lipsticks are like a very pigmented balm. They are very hydrating and shiny. Similar to the Benefit Benebalm or the Dior Addict Lipstick. I actually think that the Colour Riche Shine Lipsticks could be a dupe for the Dior Addict Lipstick. The lipsticks have a slightly sweet scent that I can’t quite place (almost like candy).

    Ultra-rich, ultra-radiant lipstick with glossy finish. Oil-infused formula for comfortable wear. In just one stroke, experience a hydrating and lasting shine effect, with rich colour pay-off.

    916 Luminous Coral, 920 Lacquered Strawberry, 926 Glassy Garnet

    I love the packaging of both lipsticks. The Ultra Mattes come in a soft matte nude tube. The texture is similar to NARS products where it feels super smooth. The packaging on the Shine lipsticks are my favourite L’Oréal lipstick tubes I think. The clear plastic has this quilted look that I just love.

    Once I finish some of my current lipsticks, I will be picking up a Colour Riche Shine Lipstick. Varnished Rosewood, Glossy Fawn and Shining Peach look beautiful. After seeing Tati review the lipsticks, I loved those shades. I’ll have to swatch them at the drugstore to see which one actually suits me.

    Have you tried the Colour Riche Lipsticks? What’s your fave shade?

    Love,

    jen

    Read More

  • First Impressions with Waso Quick Matte Moisturizer Oil-Free

    October 19, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m reviewing the Waso Quick Matte Moisturizer Oil-Free. After finishing the Water Balm (read my review) from Sonia Roselli, I started using the Waso moisturizer. If you want to see what else is in my skincare rotation, click here!

    I bought it during the Sephora Beauty Appreciation Sale a while back. Originally, I bought this for my mom. Even though the brand is geared toward Millennials like me, I thought I would get it for her because she has oily skin. She decided to go with the Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Day Emulsion instead.

    Waso is a line from Shiseido. Since it’s geared toward people in their 20s and 30s, Waso’s products are less expensive than Shiseido’s. It’s similar to Dior BACKSTAGE being slightly more affordable than the main Dior brand.

    I like the packaging; it’s a translucent light green bottle that reminds me of jade. I don’t really know why the lid has the hole in the packaging (like a water bottle). I feel like it’s a bit unnecessary; it’s not like I’m going to be carrying my moisturizer around, carrying it by the loop like I do with my water bottles. I like that it comes with a pump and the packaging is very simple, yet classic.

    My skin is on the drier side, so I’m probably not the best to review this product based on how well it mattifies my skin. When I use this, my skin does look matte, but not dry. It dries down a bit tacky.

    I love the gel consistency of this moisturizer, but the scent is a bit too floral for me. When I was at Sephora, I tested out another product from the Waso line, the Fresh Jelly Lotion. I can’t remember what the scent was like, but I would be interested in trying that if the scent isn’t as strong.

    An oil-free, oil-balancing gel emulsion to instantly mattify and balance skin with 24-hour hydration. Smooths and hydrates skin with a shine-reducing, sebum-absorbing powder to maintain a matte look. The dewy texture feels refreshing and leaves skin feeling smooth, hydrated and less shiny. Formulated with whole Loquat Leaf Cells, which are carefully extracted to keep their wholeness harnessed for an anti-oxidant effect and to help balance skin’s oil levels. Loquat Leaf has an antioxidant effect that is known to help suppress sebum breakdown.

    For dry, oily, normal, combination and sensitive skin. Dermatologist-tested. Non-comedogenic. Paraben-free. Oil-free.

    • PhytoResist System+ uses the power of botanicals to help heighten skin’s resistance to internal and external stressors while also infusing rich moisture.
    • Sebum Absorbing Powder helps absorb excess sebum for smooth, non-oily skin, while minimizing visible pores.

    RATING: 4/5

    Have you tried anything from Waso?

    Love,

    Read More

  • August 2018 Product Empties

    September 3, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    I finished some makeup products which brings me one step closer to streamlining my makeup collection! Yay for progress! → Check out my makeup goals

    Pearlessence Cucumber Water – I bought this at Winners for $10. I liked that it was in a glass bottle, but the mist would sting my eyes. I got it in my mouth a few times and it tasted horrible.

    Repurchase? No.

    Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-in-1 Foundation + Concealer in 01 Creamy Vanilla – If you’ve been reading my blog for a while now, you’ll know that I am planning to only purchase high-end foundations from now on. This was a very thick foundation/concealer, if you used a beauty sponge to blend it, it could sheer out a bit. It looked nice, but it was way too full coverage for me. I’d rather use a sheer, dewy foundation and then use a spot concealer on areas that need covering up. I would’ve used this more as a concealer, but the shade I bought was a tad too yellow for me. So, if I didn’t use it all over the face, I would have random yellow splotches on my face. It had a bit of a perfume-y scent to it that I didn’t really like. I didn’t really give this a proper wear test (as a foundation). I mostly used it when I took pictures for Instagram and practised applying my makeup.

    Repurchase? No.

    The Body Shop All-in-One BB Cream Colour-Adapting Tinted Cream (read my review) – I gave this a 5/5 in my review, but since then, I have tried the Lancome Skin Feels Good Skin Nourishing Foundation which I really love (read my review).

    L’Oréal Colour Riche Collection Exclusive Lipstick in 370 Jennifer’s Nude – This is one of my fave lipsticks! It’s interesting because when I swatch it on my arm, it’s like a sheer peachy-pink, but when it’s on my lips, it’s a beautiful pinky-nude.

    Repurchase? I bought another tube a few months after purchasing the first one because I thought it was going to be limited edition. I think I will wait until I’ve used up some other lipsticks before breaking out the new tube though.

    GOSH Click’N Conceal Pen in 01 Light (read my review) – I liked this concealer, but they no longer sell it at Shoppers Drug Mart.

    Repurchase? Unavailable.

    Repurchase? Probably not. I really like it, but I looove the Lancome Skin Feels Good Skin Nourishing Foundation.

    Live Clean Exotic Nectar Argan Oil Restorative Shampoo – I don’t love the smell of this one, but it does make my hair look shiny and feel soft.

    Repurchase? Not this particular Live Clean shampoo.

    Live Clean Apple Cider Ultra Light Conditioner – Like the shampoo, this conditioner smells like apple juice to me. It doesn’t make my hair feel as soft as the other ones.

    Repurchase? Not this particular Live Clean conditioner.

    The Ordinary “Buffet” Multi-Technology Peptide Serum (read my review) – After my initial first impressions review, I realized just how tacky it made my face feel. I want a skincare product that doesn’t feel tacky or cause my makeup to pill.

    Repurchase? No.

    Love,

    jen

    Read More

  • Decluttered | August 2018

    August 29, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    I decluttered a lot of makeup because I’m sort of just using a lot of products just to finish them. I’d rather be using ones that I enjoy and want to be using. I also decluttered a lot of nail polishes because they’re old. This declutter brings me closer to streamlining my makeup collection! Yay for progress! → Check out my makeup goals

    I finished quite a few products too, check out my empties post.

    Bobbi Brown Smokey Eye Mascara – I really liked this mascara, but it’s way too expensive.

    Repurchase? No.

    L’Oréal Voluminous Original Mascara in Blackest Black – This was a mascara I originally picked up in high school and I still love it.

    Repurchase? YES!

    Life Brand Clear Action Medicated Acne Gel (with 5% Benzoyl Peroxide) – I bought this to try as a spot treatment. I would use this before bed and every single time I woke up, I would wake up with red, puffy skin where I applied it (and the surrounding area). My face would be itchy for the rest of the day and part of the next day. I’ve found that anything stronger than salicylic acid will anger my skin. I can use benzoyl peroxide cleansers because you cleanse the skin and then wipe it off, but I’ve tried different percentages of benzoyl peroxide gels, and they’ve all made my face red and/or itchy.

    Repurchase? ABSOLUTELY NOT!

    Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Matte Bronzer – I got a deluxe sample of this from Sephora. I had to declutter this because the cocoa smell was starting to smell off. I never reached for it as my bronzer anyway because it was too dark for me. I would use it as an eyeshadow more than a bronzer.

    Repurchase? No.

    Smashbox Photo Filter Powder Foundation in Shade 1 – This powder was way too light. I don’t know what I was thinking when I chose shade 1. I couldn’t even tell if it was any good because I just looked like a ghost.

    Repurchase? It was velvety smooth, I would consider trying the right shade.

    Milani Bronzer XL All Over Glow in 01 Bronze Glow – I had to declutter this because I think the fragrance in it was causing breakouts. Plus, it was too orange for me – if I didn’t blend it out really well, I would look splotchy.

    Repurchase? No.

    I know there’s two Milani products in this list that I wouldn’t repurchase, but I do love other products from the brand → Check out my haul!

    L’Oréal Infallible Le Rouge Lipstick in 337 Refined Ruby – This is a really nice vampy red shade. Now that I have two MAC ones, I decided to declutter this one because it’s a bit too dark on me.

    Repurchase? I’d consider buying another shade in the infallible lipstick line.

    Marc Jacobs Highliner Gel Eye Crayon Eyeliner in Blacquer 42 – I assume I had the shade Blacquer because it was the black shade. Apparently the full-sized crayons don’t dry out as quickly? I saw in a YouTube video (can’t remember who it was) and the YouTuber said she loved the full-sized ones, but the deluxe sample sized ones dried out faster.

    Repurchase? Probably not.

    I decluttered 14 nail polishes. I will just list them below instead of describing each one and saying if I’d repurchase. I wouldn’t repurchase any of the ones listed below. The only brand I would purchase again is OPI. Revlon’s brush was flat and thick which I liked. The Maybelline Color Show and Wet N Wild ones were super thin and round which I find useless because my nails end up streaky and it takes a long time to paint.

    I was going to show swatches of them, but they’re all so old that I don’t think they even sell them anymore.

    • Revlon Colorstay 120 Red Carpet (not pictured because I accidentally threw it out before taking the pictures)
    • Wet n Wild Wildshine C485D Black Crème
    • Wet n Wild Wildshine C488B Who is Ultraviolet?
    • Quo by Orly Mega Silver 59397
    • Claire’s Glitter 46813 Click Your Heels
    • Maybelline Color Show Paint the Town 260
    • GOSH 600 Matt Effect Top Coat
    • OPI Louvre Me Louvre Me Not (OPI collection de France)
    • OPI On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (Holiday 2012- skyfall collection)
    • OPI Ski Teal We Drop (Fall 2010- swiss collection)
    • Formula X Need for Speed
    • Formula X Racy
    • Formula X Indelible
    • Formula X Flashy

    Love,

    Read More
  • Maybelline Eyestudio Color Tattoo Metal 24hr Cream Gel Eye Shadow vs. Revlon ColorStay Crème Eye Shadow

    This or That | Maybelline Eyestudio Color Tattoo Metal 24hr Cream Gel Eye Shadow vs. Revlon ColorStay Crème Eye Shadow

    August 6, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    Recently, I was watching a Kathleen Lights video and she said how good the Maybelline Color Tattoo Cream Shadow was, so I thought I’d give it a try. Then, about a day later, I saw an IG pic by editionalbeauty (check out her blog) of her collection of Revlon ColorStay cream shadows. I thought, “I wonder how the two drugstore brands compare!” So, I grabbed the Revlon cream shadow in a shade as similar as the nude/gold one I picked up by Maybelline. The shades aren’t the same, but I am comparing the two shadows for their longevity and quality. Since I chose lighter shades, I can’t say if the pigmentation for the darker ones are different.

    maybelline v revlon shadows (1)

    Maybelline Eyestudio Color Tattoo Metal 24hr Cream Gel Eye Shadow in Barely Branded

    Dare to get inked! Our ink technology creates super-saturated colour. Cream gel smooths on for vibrant colour that lasts for 24-hours. Ophthalmologist tested. Dermatologist tested. Allergy tested. Suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

    Step 1. Using fingertips, apply eye shadow from the inner corner and work outwards. Step 2. For added drama, reapply to darken.

    maybelline v revlon shadows

    Revlon ColorStay Crème Eye Shadow in Crème Brûlée 705 – It comes with a brush that slides into the cap. I thought the brush was useless, the pigmentation was better when I used my finger to apply the shadow.

    Introducing 6 new highly-pigmented bold shades with finishes ranging from matte to shimmer. Luxurious, longwear crème eye shadow with a pro-inspired built-in-brush designed for easy, mess free application. Wears up to 24 hours & waterproof. 

    maybelline vs revlon cream shadows
    Maybelline (left), Revlon

    When dipping your finger into the pot, don’t press too hard. I found the best way was to lightly swirl my finger in the pot so that I didn’t get clumps of the shadow on my finger.

    I did a few different wear tests to see how they performed:

    TEST #1- no eyeshadow primer, no shadow

    I wanted to test the longevity of both products without any primer and no shadows on top. By the 2nd hour, both were starting to crease near the inner corner of my eye.

    TEST #2- with eyeshadow primer, and eyeshadow on top (half of lid)

    I used Etude House Proof 10 Eyeshadow Primer and then I used a light brown shade to smoke out the outer corner. Both shadows creased by the 5th or 6th hour, but they held up well until then.

    TEST #3– using the cream shadow as a base

    For the 3rd test, I basically did the same as test #2, but I also applied a shimmery rose gold shade on the lid.

    Both shadows looked good as a shadow on their own and as a base for a shimmery powder shadow. I highly suggest eyeshadow primer when you use it though. It definitely extended the wear time and my lids don’t get super oily.

    maybelline color tattoo, revlon cream shadow
    Maybelline (top), Revlon

    The Revlon isn’t as pigmented after one swipe, but it is buildable. Both look good alone for a simple, shimmery lid. For me, I liked when I used the cream shadows all over the lid and then applied a brown shade on the outer corner and lower lashline to smoke it out.

    Comparing the two shades I got, I think I like the Revlon one better because it’s more rose gold while the Maybelline is more yellow gold. Both are around the same price (around $10), but you get more in the Revlon pot (0.18oz/5.2g) than the Maybelline one (0.14oz/4g). Both come in shimmery and matte shades.

    I don’t know if it’s just me, but I feel like the Revlon shadow is a bit more creamy. When I dip my finger into it, it feels a bit softer.

    Both came off easily with my Garnier Micellar Water. There may be residual sparkles left, but the colour removes easily.

    WINNER: Revlon ColorStay Crème Eye Shadow

    Revlon ekes out a victory here. Both perform really well, but I think I prefer Revlon because it blends more nicely for my monolids. Because it’s less pigmented, it looks more seamless when you blend it on the lid. Since I don’t have a crease, I don’t like when shimmery eyeshadows go too high on my lids (that’s just me though).

    Do you use cream shadows? What are your faves?

    Love,

    jen

    Read More
  • sonia roselli water balm

    July 2018 Faves

    July 30, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    I’ve decided that I will be adding other things to my monthly favourites posts; I’ll add food/drinks, clothing and entertainment!

    Here are this month’s beauty faves:

    img_20180706_061206_696.jpg

    The BCL Spa Sugar Scrub Lavender + Mint and BCL Spa Dead Sea Salt Soak Lavender + Mint are amazing. Both have made my skin feel so soft and the lavender + mint scent is fresh and clean. The sugar scrub is fine and not too coarse on the skin, and it dissolved in a warm bath. The sea salt soak was so relaxing. I don’t know what it is about bath salts, but they always make the bathwater feel silky. I would definitely recommend picking up the spa set if you’re into at-home pampering! I was lucky enough to receive the 4-piece set in a giveaway I won from @DannyCoHair.

    sonia roselli.png

    Sonia Roselli Water Balm (read my review) is amazing and I can’t wait to try more of her products! It’s a multi-use product and it feels so good on the skin. I use it as a moisturizer and primer.

    IMG_20180720_063935_547.jpg

    I’ve really been liking the Tarte Tarteist Creamy Matte Lip Paint in Birthday Suit. Sadly, I need to declutter it because it’s drying out. But I really liked the shade and the feel of it. Sometimes, I would top it with some gloss, which would lighten the shade a bit. This is the shade Birthday Suit, the mini that everyone got from Sephora for their birthday gift last year.

    BLOG TITLES 1.png

    I went to Indie Expo Canada and I picked up a holo nail polish called The Deep End by Colors by Llarowe. It’s described as a vivid turquoise based multi chrome that shifts from turquoise to green to blue to purple to pink with added holo sparkle. I really wanted a blue-turquoise mermaid-y nail polish and The Deep End was my fave of the turquoise holo nail polishes at the Indie Expo. I swatched them on a nail wheel (as you can see above); one coat on the left and two coats on the right. I love that it’s holographic, so it doesn’t have chunks in it and therefore the nails feel nice and smooth. I love glitter nail polish, but I don’t like that you can feel the texture of the sparkles until you apply a top coat and even then, sometimes it still feels a bit bumpy.

    BLOG TITLES 1

    I tried Meghan Markle’s zucchini bolognese recipe. I had seen it on Buzzfeed and it sounded interesting, so I thought I’d give it a try. They call it a ‘bolognese’ because you cook the zucchini for 4 hours (similar to slow-cooking a bolognese sauce). I thought it was pretty good, but I think I would prefer if the zucchini still had some crunch and kept it’s shape. I like the recipe and would use it again, but instead cook the zucchini for a portion of the time. Also, I’m a girl who likes to eat meat, so I would probably have some roast chicken on the side or even add some into the pasta.

    I’ve been enjoying the President’s Choice Blue Menu Pink Grapefruit Sparkling Water, it’s refreshing and it has no calories, no sugar and no sodium. I don’t usually like flavoured water, but this one I don’t mind. It’s great if you want something carbonated, but don’t want to drink pop.

    What were your faves this month?

    Love,

    jen

    Read More

  • Worth It? | Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation

    July 16, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    When I heard that Dior was coming out with a collection that was geared towards a younger demographic, I was intrigued. I heard it would be a little more affordable and trendier than the classic Dior you think of when you hear the name. I have been looking into getting one of the foundations and I was settled on Diorskin Star Fluid Foundation. But, when I heard that the new Backstage Collection was going to be releasing 40 foundation shades (thank you, Rihanna- I know a lot of other brands had a good shade selection before, but it wasn’t until Fenty Beauty released 40 that other brands started to realize, “hey, we should be more inclusive too”). It’s especially hard to find your shade with a high end brand like Dior. The Diorskin Star Foundation barely has 20 shades, so it’s nice to see that the Backstage Face & Body Foundation has 40 shades that include different undertones.

    20180709_170647

    The Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation comes in a translucent plastic bottle (so you can see how much product is left) that has a matte feel and it has a squeeze bottle spout. It’s not like the bottle is squishy, but you can squeeze it so more foundation comes out. The plastic spout looks like it can be removed easily, so you can take off the top and use a spatula to get the last drop when you’re almost done. The silver cap twists off and when you put the cap on, it kind of locks in place so you know it’s twisted on properly. The foundation is quite fluid and when I first opened the bottle, the liquid spurted out a bit.

    The foundation has a matte finish with medium-buildable coverage. It’s lightly scented like the other Dior foundations- I actually like it. It’s a refreshing scent that you can’t smell once you put it on your face. With the Diorskin Star Foundation, my shade is 020, so I decided to wing it and order 2N for this foundation. I think it’s a pretty good match for blindly choosing one. I was worried at first because I watched a few reviews and they said it oxidized, so I thought I should’ve chose a lighter one.

    TITLES JC(2)

    A foundation for the face and body in 40 shades with a natural, matte finish and medium, buildable coverage that’s waterproof and sweat-resistant.

    Dior Backstage Face and Body Foundation is the Dior makeup artists’ secret weapon to create a flawless, runway-ready complexion for both the face and body. This waterproof formula fuses with skin, resisting extreme conditions like workout sessions, water, and even high temperatures and humid environments. It can also be used to camouflage minor imperfections on the neck, shoulders, legs, or anywhere else.

    Sweatproof?

    I’ve been wearing it in this Toronto weather (pretty hot) and it’s hard to tell if it’s sweat or the oils on my t-zone, but it has been breaking up in the t-zone area.

    Waterproof?

    It’s waterproof enough to stay put after being put underwater. I splashed some water on my face and it didn’t come off. Also, the foundation on my hand was still on after running it under water and rubbing it lightly. So, if you were to get caught in the rain, you’d be safe, but I was able to remove the foundation with water and my makeup eraser (read my review).

    20180709_172032

    Wear Test

    I tried it with a beauty sponge on one side of my face and a brush on the other- both applied beautifully. I think I would use a brush to apply since I don’t want my sponge absorbing all of the product. Also, since it doesn’t have a pump and it’s more liquid than other foundations, I can’t tell how much I’m actually using.

    Test #1

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

    With the Sonia Roselli Water Balm, it looked flawless! Of course, I needed to use concealer to cover up dark spots, but it looked like my skin. To test its longevity, I didn’t powder my t-zone and by the 2nd hour, it was breaking up on and around my nose and chin. This was on a hot day and after doing a little arm workout (where I didn’t quite work up a sweat). By the 4th hour, it was basically gone from under my nose. I don’t know if it was from the heat or if I didn’t use as much as I thought, but when I removed it with a makeup wipe, there wasn’t as much foundation on the wipe as I usually do.

    Test #2

    Primer used: Make Up For Ever Step 1 Skin Equalizer Primer (Smoothing), Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Oil

    Powder used: Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder

    I tried building up the coverage with two layers of foundation and set it with powder. By the second hour, it looked horrible- it was collecting around my nose. The makeup felt heavy and looked cakey.

    Test #3

    Primer used: Make Up For Ever Step 1 Skin Equalizer Primer (Hydrating)

    Powder used: Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder

    By the 3rd hour, the foundation was settling into fine lines between my brows (making it look like I had wrinkles) and wore off under my nose. It didn’t look terrible, but it would require a touch up.

    Test #4

    Primer used: Sonia Roselli Water Balm

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

    Powder used: Innisfree No-Sebum Mineral Powder

    Less than 2 hours after applying, it looked powdery and was collecting around the nose. I think the sunscreen made the foundation apply on top of my skin, creating a layer on top of my skin instead of sinking into the skin.

    Test #5

    Primer used: Stellar Brilliant Primer

    This was the worst combo. Since the primer doesn’t hydrate, it accentuated my dry spots.

    Test #6

    Primers used: Smashbox Photo Finish Reduce Redness Primer, Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Oil (on t-zone)

    Setting Spray: NYX Makeup Setting Spray (Matte)

    Powder: Bare Minerals barePRO Performance Wear Pressed Powder Foundation in Cashmere 06

    I mixed the Dior foundation with my Lancôme Skin Feels Good Skin Nourishing Foundation in 01N Nude Vanilla (read my review). It looked absolutely flawless!! After wearing it for six hours when I was out in the heat, you could tell it broke up a bit on my chin, but around my nose, it still looked pretty good.

    Worth It?

    This foundation is worth it if you’re looking for a natural matte finish. This foundation is beautiful, but I don’t think it will become a staple in my foundation lineup. Lately, I’ve been into radiant, natural finishes to give that glow from within look and since this one has a matte finish, it’s not what I’m looking for in a foundation.

    The winning combination for me was Test #6.

    • Sonia Roselli Water Balm as a moisturizer and primer
    • Using a smoothing primer to minimize the appearance of pores on my cheeks and forehead
    • Smashbox Primer Oil on and around my nose
    • Mixing the Dior Foundation with the Lancome Skin Feels Good Skin Nourishing Foundation
    • To set, I dabbed some Bare Minerals powder on my t-zone to get rid of the shine and used my NYX setting spray.

    RATING: 4/5

    I have to dock a point for the packaging- no pump and it’s in a plastic bottle. I know that the plastic packaging is so that it’s more portable and won’t break if you throw into your bag, but if I’m paying more than $40, I expect a pump and a glass bottle. I just prefer pumps because then I know how much I’m using. It’s hard to tell if I’m squeezing out the same amount each time.

    Have you tried products from the Dior Backstage collection?

    Love,

    jen

    Read More

  • 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,

    Read More

  • 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.

    TITLES JC(3)

    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.

    Probiotic-Enzyme-Exfoliator_1024x1024

    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.

    byebyemakeup_main.jpgIT 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:

    TITLES JC(8)

    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).

    TITLES JC(7)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.

    3005966Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water with Argan Oil

    Recommended by @jeanicaxx

    edfgeNARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation

    Recommended by @thewelshchic

    TITLES JC(4)Bobbi Brown Blush

    NARS Blush

    Revlon Powder Blush

    TheBalm Blush

    Recommended by @editionalbeauty & @icxbeauty

    TITLES JC(6)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,

    jen

    Read More

  • Review | Coastal Scents Revealed 3 Palette

    April 21, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    I thought I would do a review and swatches of the Revealed 3 Palette from Coastal Scents. It’s a very nice palette for a beginner. I got this from a TopBox a while back and it’s been great for an everyday eye look. I mostly use the brown/taupe and gold shades. The first two shades are great to set your eyeshadow primer. It has a combo of matte and shimmery shades, but the majority are shimmery.

    The Revealed 3 palette features twenty all-new elegant eye shadows, in a stunning variety of hues and textures. Discover infinite possibilities with a combination of looks, perfect for every eye color.

    Swatches below are without using primer. The top two shades didn’t show up when I swatched them. On the left is the top row of shades, and the right is the bottom row.

    coastal.PNG

    I would suggest doing eyes before your foundation and concealer because the fallout can be quite bad. Sometimes I have to dust off my nose or fluff the shadow out of my hair.

    RATING: 4/5

    It’s not the best palette, but it was the first palette (with more than 4 shades) I ever owned. I mostly used single eyeshadows before and I have trouble deciding on which eyeshadow palette I want to actually purchase. Two of the ones I own were won in giveaways and this one I got from a subscription box. There are so many beautiful palettes out there, how can I decide?

    What palettes do you recommend?

    Love,

    jen

    Read More