New Too Faced Chocolate Chip Palette?!

Yes, you heard correctly!  Jerrod Blandino has released a sneak peak of an upcoming palette...Too Faced Chocolate Chip.  He mentioned the words "purse-sized" and "fun-sized", so we are expecting possible another 9 shadow palette.  The packaging is similar to the large palettes such as the chocolate, semi-chocolate, and sweet peach.  This palette is expected to release in Spring 2017.  I wonder if the hype will be the same as the sweet peach...hopefully they will not try the same stunt that they did with the sweet peach palette.  We all know that they create more than enough product...so no secret palette releases Too Faced!  Too Faced has done a wonderful job on their eyeshadow palettes in the last few years going above and beyond.  I am excited to see what the inside of this palette will look like.  What about you?  Stay FABULOUS!

My Hair Regimen (Newly Natural)

Current Protective Style:  Crochet Havana Twists

So, this is the long awaited natural hair regimen post.  I big chopped at the beginning of February this year, and I needed some time to try out products.  I think I have gotten a routine that works well.  I am still searching for few more holy grail items.  You have actually seen some of the products that I will discuss in this posting in previous reviews.  So, let's get into what I do...which isn't much...


Washing/Cleansing:


I co-wash my hair about 2-3 times a week depending on whether I workout or not do anything at all.  I am currently using As I Am Coconut Co-Wash Conditioner to rinse my hair for each wash.  1-2 times per week I will use Shea Moisture's Jamaican Black Castor Oil and Vinegar Cleansing Shampoo to aid in removing product build up.  Since I have an extremely dry scalp, I will still wash with Head and Shoulders every now and then.


Conditioning/Deep Conditioning:
Right now, I am only using one conditioner which is actually a deep conditioner, Shea Mositure Superfruit Complex 10 in 1 Renewal System.  I love this because it keeps my hair super moisturized without a residue.  I complete my washing, conditioning, and detangling in the shower due to time constraints.  Once my life is more settled, I plan on doing true deep conditioning treatments again.  I am hoping to sneak in an Argan oil deep treatment tonight!

Update:  I have also started using the Shea Moisture Manuka Honey and Marfura Oil Intensive Hydration Conditioner, and it works really well with replacing moisture back into my hair.


Leave Ins:
Once I exit the shower and towel dry my hair, I will spray my hair with a coconut oil and water mixture.  I'll add my current favorite leave-in conditioner, Curls Crème Brule.  I still love my Cantu Shea Butter Leave In Conditioner, but it does not play well with other products.  It often leaves a white residue on my hair.  It works best as a stand alone moisturizer on a day where I may be working out only or spending a lot of time outside and plan on washing my hair again soon.


Oils:
I typically apply shea oil after applying my leave in conditioner.  I use coconut, Jamaican black caster, and/or jojoba oil for my scalp.  I am always adding and trying new oils, so this is always subject to change.


Gels:
I keep the gel to a minimum and only apply about a quarter size amount to my entire head.  Maybe more when my hair gets longer, but I hate crunchy, stiff hair.  My current favs are Ecostyler Gel and Curls Blueberry Bliss Curl Control Jelly.  I have tried a few others but they can't beat these two.


Styling:
These days wash and go's are my best friend.  I am not an awesome braider or flat twister so TWA it is!  By the time this post goes up, I should have my first protective style with my natural hair.


So, let me tell you what I need help with!  Dry scalp...I feel like I have tried every product and natural remedy but nothing works.  Please let me know your suggestions for dry scalp or any other products.  Stay FABULOUS!

  
  

Urban Decay Revolution Lipsticks $11 Right Now!

Urban Decay Revolution lipsticks are 50% off.  They are now 11.00 USD.  You can purchase the lipsticks on www.urbandecay.com, Ulta, Nordstrom, Belk and Sephora.  I am not sure how long the sale will last but grab some while you can!  I sense a new lipstick formula coming out... Happy Shopping! Stay FABULOUS!

First Impressions: Too Faced Sweet Peach Palette

Photo taken by imgur.com

So Beauties I flooded your timeline with constant updates for the Too Faced Sweet Peach palette.  I finally got my hands on it.  Now that I have had a chance to play in twice, I will give you my initial two cents.  The packaging and colors are beautiful.  Yes, that was pretty much the good part.  The rest is not so good...

The palette is created with warm browns, purples, and peach colors.  I was very disappointed in all of the peach colors.  They were all powdery and lacked luster.  The darker shades were definitely more creamy and had better color payoff.

Now, this is not a surprise since Temptalia's review stated this palette was not Too Faced's best.  I agree...  For how much hype is surrounding this palette, it is not worth 49.00 USD.  We are purchasing the palette for the peach colors only to find out that they are the worst performing.

I am a Georgia peach myself, so I plan on keeping the palette for a collectors item.  I will probably use it from time to time.  The two looks below were great except it took some extra work to apply and blend.  What was your experience with the Sweet Peach palette?  Stay FABULOUS!





Checkout my looks below...

Urban Decay Naked Skin One and Done Hybrid Complexion Perfector Review

 

 

 

Urban Decay's new summer collection has released at most major retailers such as Sephora, Ulta, and so on.  The collection comes in gorgeous hologram packaging with a summer theme.  The collection includes highlighters, tinted moisturizers, bronzers, and two eyeliners.  Check out what Urban Decay states about their one and done hybrid complexion perfector:

Instantly blur imperfections and even out skintone, and achieve gorgeous skin that appears effortlessly perfected. With Urban Decay’s Naked Skin One & Done Hybrid Complexion Perfector, you’ll reap the benefits of skin treatment and SPF 20 protection with the coverage of a sheer foundation. There’s no need for foundation—one step and you're done. The innovative, lightweight formula provides more coverage, hydration, and optical blurring than a BB or CC cream. It transforms the look of your skin with light-diffusing spheres so that flaws seem to disappear. Over time, pores appear smaller and skin looks noticeably firmer and more radiant. With a range of shades to cover a wide spectrum of skin tones, this oil-free formula is infused with nourishing ingredients (including peptides, vitamins and moisturizers). Sourced from the wu zhu yu plant, Gatuline® Radiances improve the look of radiance, tone, and texture.

So this hybrid perfector is similar to a BB cream in that it is a little thicker than the ordinary tinted moisturizer.  It covers most of my imperfections and evens skin tone. I applied this with a beauty blender, and it gave a smooth, even coverage.  I initially tried it with a flattop brush, and it was a streaky mess.  I set it with my Kat Von D lock it powder foundation in D74.  I initially was not going to set it to see how the product wore alone, but in reality I would never wear the product alone.  I would set it with the Kat Von D...so I did.  I tested my other products for review in the same way.  After a few tries with Kat Von D, I set it with MUFE pro finish powder, and the wearing time was the same.



I used the darkest of the six shades in deep.  The color was just a tad bit lighter than my skin, but like this product claims, the color adjusted to my skin tone just a few minutes after the application.  I am not sure that I can say the same for someone with a very deep skin tone.  I would have liked to see may be one more darker shade for women of color. 



The tinted moisturizer wore well.  I did not notice shine until about 3 to 4 hours into my workday.  With a product like this, I thought that I would have been shiny after one hour. The longevity is great, and there are not patches of skin peaking through at the end of the day.



Urban Decay states that the product has all kinds of great ingredients that I cannot pronounce.  It states that it will improve skin appearance and firmness over time.  I cannot say that I have seen an improvement in my skin just yet.  But, I like the product so far so I will continue to see what other good things it brings.



You get 1.3oz of product for 34.00 USD.  The price is reasonable in my opinion.  Will you be snagging anything from this collection?  Stay FABULOUS!






11 hours and one mid-day blot later...

Urban Decay Afterglow 8-Hour Powder Highligher Review

 

Urban Decay's summer collection includes three highlighters.  Yes...more highlighters!  I only purchased one of the three in Fireball.  This is the darkest of the three.  It is described as peach with pink shift.  That's what go me...the pink shift.  This highlighter has a gorgeous iridescent pink hint to it.  When you turn your cheek, you go from peach highlighter to a beautiful peachy pink glow/sheen.  This is perfect for the summer.  I will be making good use out of this highlighter this summer. 


You get 0.23 oz for 26.00 USD.  This price is similar to other high-end highlighters on the market now.  Urban Decay also makes this color in an eyeshadow that retails for 19.00 USD.  What's your favorite highlighter going into this summer?  Stay FABULOUS!

Rihanna Is Taking Over (New Collection Details)

Rihanna has just released her third collection with Stance socks.  The collection includes 19 pieces of hosiery.  This collection is "baby doll meets tomboy".  This line will be available at several retailers including Tillys.com and Asos.com. 

Rihanna is also expected to release her own makeup line called Fenty in the near future.  You know how much we loved her two collaborations with MAC.  I expect great things from this line.

Also, Rihanna has a collaboration with Puma expected to release later this week.  


What can I say?  Rihanna's fashion and beauty sense are taking the market by storm...and I am excited.  She has a unique style, and her pieces are sure to catch a second glimpse.  Will you be purchasing any of these items?  Stay FABULOUS!

Sephora Collection Bright Future Gel Serum Concealer Review

I think that some forget that Sephora has some great items in their makeup collection.  It's like the secret stash item no one knows that you are wearing.  The Bright Future Gel Serum Concealer is not a new Sephora item, but it is definitely one worth talking about.  Sephora's deets:

Ideal for undereye use, this gel-serum concealer with 21 percent pigment is feather light and never settles into fine lines. It is infused with pineapple ceramide, which helps to improve skin texture and promote brightness. The formula is buildable in color and coverage without adding texture due to the high level of pigments. The unique domed applicator acts like a cotton swab to provide the perfect amount of product every time. Just dip, dot, and blend. 

This is a medium coverage concealer that is great for undereye correction and spot correction.  The concealer does have a light, gel texture.  It applies like a dream.  This product reminds me of the coverage from Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer.  There is a great shade range including 20 shades.  About 7 of those shades are women of color friendly.



You receive 0.14 oz for 14.00 USD.  Yes, you hear me...14 bucks!  Finally a great product with an even greater price.  Compared to other brands:  Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer 0.22 29.00 USD , Urban Decay Naked Skin Weightless Concealer 0.16 oz 28.00 USD,  Bare Minerals Complete Coverage Serum Concealer 0.20 oz 22.00 USD.



My only con which is for all concealers in this packaging is product loss when trying to get the last bit out of the container...you can't.  Definitely go snag one of these concealers.  Stay FABULOUS!

Marimekko for Target Releases Today!

 

Target is releasing their spring/summer designer collection today.  Target is going Finnish!  Check out what Target has to say:

Simple and spirited, Marimekko infuses its authentic Nordic sensibility and iconic prints into a signature collection of fashion and home pieces. Splashed with color, pattern and purpose, Marimekko is a true hallmark of Finnish art and design that never goes out of style. We have Marimekko artist, Maija Isola to thank for these prints and patterns.

I love Target designer collections.  I just wish that they would not sell out so quickly.  Reminds you of MAC, right?  I love the prints!  I think that I want some of the palazzo pants and one of the dresses.  Are you buying anything?  Stay FABULOUS!

Sephora Minnie Mouse Collection Coming April 2016

Sephora is releasing a 7 piece Minnie Mouse themed collection.  The collection includes an eyeshadow palette, lipglosses, liquid eyeliners, lipstick, makeup brushes, and more.  The collection is already listed on the Sephora website but not expected to be available until later this month.  You can also get an email notification for first notice of the its release.  One thing to note:  the lip stain set are the same lip stains available in the permanent line.  The packaging is adorable.  Will you be grabbing anything from this collection.  Stay FABULOUS!

*Part of the collection is available for purchase at this time.  Some items may be exclusive to Rouge members as well.

Kate Somerville Anti Bac Clearing Lotion Review

Kate Somerville refers to its Anti Bac Clearing Lotion as an intensive, prescription quality acne treatment.  Take a look at Kate Somerville's write up:

This advanced skin solution contains encapsulated benzoyl peroxide 5%, the most advanced and successful acne-fighting ingredient on the market. Its benzoyl peroxide content is time-released to clear blemishes without drying the surface of the skin.

This lotion comes in a 1.7 oz tube which is pretty generous when referring to lotions and cleansers with a high content of acne fighting ingredients.   It is light and surprisingly a light scented product.  Benzoyl Peroxide is a strong acne fighting ingredient and may cause sensitivity as related to a household product like bleach.  The product can be irritating to the eyes and cause discoloration to whatever it comes in contact with.  But, I have not had any problems with this product whatsoever.  Previous benzoyl peroxide based products that I have owned, mainly from Clean and Clear, caused all of the problems above.  It would irritate my eyes if applied to close...and it would bleach everything!

This product feels like an ordinary, lightweight moisturizer.  I apply after cleansing my face everyday.  In combination with Kate Somerville cleanser, this product definitely aids in keeping my acne at bay.  Check out my other Kate Somerville review.  I have had minimal breakouts within the last 3 weeks of using this product. I also have been trying it on my shoulders for breakouts, and I have not really noticed any improvement at this time.  


I have mentioned the price of Kate Somerville products previously, and this time is no different.  The 1.7 oz of product retails for 42.00 USD.  Crazy right?! Now, I am on the fence as to whether or  not this product is worth the money.  I think that the cleanser in this line may be doing more.  I think that if I would have seen more improvement when I put it on other parts of my body, I could justify the cost.  But, right now, I do not think that I will be repurchasing this product.  Have you tried any Kate Somerville products?  Stay FABULOUS!

Nars Velvet Matte Skin Tint Review

Nars has just released a new skin tint to continue on the bandwagon of BB creams, CC creams, tinted moisturizers and so on.  But, there is a little different that the others that I just mentioned.  It's geared toward the oily crew.  Check out Nars's claim to fame:

This oil-free formula wears comfortably, maintaining skin’s natural moisture barrier while working to control shine throughout the day. Transparent Blurring Powders help to blur imperfections, even the look of skintone, and smooth the appearance of pores and fine lines. The powders’ unique, spherical shape compresses like a cushion, delivering a velvety-smooth, touchable feel and superior comfort on application. Vitamins C, E, and broad spectrum SPF 30 protect against free-radical damage caused by environmental stress. Simply touch and go for an effortlessly perfected look.

My description on this product...what she said!  I originally scolded Nars for their color selection in this line, and  I almost want to put my foot in my mouth...but not yet.  This skin tint is like a light to medium foundation.  The skin tint sets matte and gives a smooth, even skin appearance.  I prefer the application with a brush. I'm using Sephora Pro Flawless Foundation Brush #56. Now, I previously enjoyed the Nars Radiant Tinted Moisturizer.  It was one of the few tinted moisturizers that didn't get super oily in a short amount of time for me.  This new matte skin tint definitely does it for me.

Now back to the color.  Nars released 12 shades for this line.  I chose the second to darkest skin tint in Martinique Med/Dark 3.  I wore the two darkest shades on my hands for an hour to see how the color set.  They both oxidized becoming slightly darker than what's in the tube.  The three darker shades have a strong orange undertone.  This is why I am disappointed with Nars.  I think that with their history in making some great women of color shades, they could have done better than that.  Martinique is still the best shade for me.  I corrected this problem with a lighter powder.  I have been using Kat Von D Lock It Foundation Powder in Deep 74 with this product and my face lasts for hours!

I can wear this combination 12 hours with no problem.  I will blot maybe three times in that 12 hour period.  Now, this may be a little too drying for dry, combination skin types.  One other con is that I noticed that do have product breakdown or wear around my mouth.  The product seemed to separate and my skin underneath began to peak through.  I tend to notice it after lunch.  My assumption is the oils from food and the constant wiping of my mouth started completing removing the product.  I never had this problem with a foundation, but this is a skin tint not a foundation.  The next time after that, I brought my powder with me to touch up around my mouth after eating.

The price for 1.7 oz of product is 44.00 USD which is steep.  Nars products are pricey in general, but this is a lot for a skin tint.  The Nars All Day Luminous Foundation retails for 45.00 USD, and you get 0.02 oz more in the Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer 1.9 oz for 44.00 USD.  I can say that a little goes a long way, and this product will last you a while.  The price still hurts a little.

Overall, this is a good product.  It does exactly what it claims.  It will be great for the coming steamy month of summer.  Oily beauties looking for a tinted moisturizer for this summer?  Check it out.  Stay FABULOUS!

11 hours and one mid-day blot later...

Two New Fragrance Favorites: YSL Black Opium and Lancome La Vie Est Belle

A few of you may know that I am absolutely obsessed with Viktor and Rolf's Flowerbomb.  But, there are some new favorites battling for my attention.  YSL's Black Opium and Lancôme's La Vie Est Belle are some great new fragrances.  I would say that these two fragrances are both in the same scent family.  YSL's Black Opium is a sweet, sexy scent.  It has notes of coffee, vanilla, and orange blossom.  It's a great scent for a date night, but it's also soft enough to wear to work.  



La Vie Est Belle is soft, sweet floral scent.  Check out Lancôme's description:

La Vie Est Belle is the fragrance of joyful femininity that makes life more beautiful. It is for the woman who lives in the present, who is filled with honesty, truth, and gratitude, and who is free of social constraint, to emblazon her own unique path.

Wow, Lancôme makes you feel like you'll be the First Lady after spraying this!  This scent has iris, patchouli, and gorurmand.  I love this scent as an everyday perfume.

Now, I did not abandon my Flowerbomb, but she is now going to have to share the love.  What's your favorite scent right now?  Stay FABULOUS!

New Estee Lauder Edit Collection Releases at Sephora

You may have seen this strange new Estee Lauder packing floating around Sephora.com.  Estee Lauder and Sephora have collaborated to release a unique line targeted toward millennials...aka the young folks.  This line is called Edit by Estee Lauder.  One downfall with Estee Lauder is that they were missing the young demographic.  So do you blame them for trying?  Do not fret, the young at heart along with everyone else will still be able to purchase all other Estee Lauder products.  No discontinuation of products to best of my knowledge. 

The line has bold, unique packaging...at least in comparison with other Estee Lauder releases, and the shades are edgy and modern.  There are a lot of products in this line to start.  There are several skincare and makeup items.  I have not seen anything at this time that is unique or new to the makeup world.  But, nevertheless, Estee Lauder has great makeup quality.  So, I will be trying a few items from this line. 

There are several reviews already on Sephora.com.  Many of the items have been reported with mediocre performance.  We shall see!  What have you tried? Stay FABULOUS!

Too Faced Sweet Peach Palette Released in Store!

Quick update for the Too Faced Sweet Peach palette.  Sephora's website stated that the palette would not release in stores until April 15th.  I was at my local Sephora for the spring 15% off sale today, and they had several palettes in stock and on hold for customers already.  I was able to snag one with the spring discount!  Awesome sauce!  So, check out your local Sephora if you are still on the hunt for this product.  Also, per Too Faced, the palette should be in Ulta stores this week.  I have not heard any word on that for sure at this time.  Stay FABULOUS!

Urban Decay Gwen Stafani Lipsticks and Lipliners Are On Sale!

Hey Beauties!  Heads up on a sale today at Ulta.  The Gwen Stefani lipsticks and lipliners are on sale.  The lipsticks are now 12.00 USD and the lipliners are 13.00 USD.  If you have not tried any products from the Gwen Stefani line yet...this is your chance to do so.  I will be snagging a couple of lipsticks myself.  The blush palette was on sale last week, but I did not pick it up. I'm looking out for the eye shadow palette to go on sale next! Stay FABULOUS!

*UPDATE:  The lipsticks, lipliners, and blush palette are on sale at Sephora too!  The lipliners are actually 14.00 USD vs. 13.00 USD at Ulta.  The lipsticks are the same price.  Happy Shopping!

NARS Under Cover Summer 2016 Collection

 

Oh, Nars!  How I adore your packaging!  Nars's Under Cover Summer 2016 collection photos are out and the packaging is to die for.  These models are giving face.   Artwork courtesy of Konstantin Kakanias. The collection will release on April 15th on NarsCosmetics.com and other retails in the next month following the Nars website release. 

This collection includes some blushes duos, dual intensity eyeshadows, and some lipglosses.  The lipgloss colors are gorgeous and will probably be what I grab first.  The blushes may be a little light for my skin tone.  I may snag one eyeshadow, Tan Lines, which is a medium brown shade.  Will you be picking up anything from this collection?  Stay FABULOUS! 

Sacha Cosmetics Buttercup Setting Powder Review

Sacha Cosmetics has an interesting story.  It is a brand manufactured in the Caribbean to address the skin care needs of its diverse population.  They offer an extensive makeup line including foundation, eyeshadow palettes, lipstick, makeup brushes, etc.  The website stated that it was the makeup of choice for several pageants.  I never heard of the brand until YouTube.  Sacha Cosmetics gained its popularity through YouTube with its Buttercup Setting Powder, said to be comparable to Ben Nye's Banana Powder.  We all remember the Ben Nye banana powder craze!  Ben Nye was and still is one of the most popular under eye highlighting/setting powder shade.  The difference?  Sacha Cosmetic's powder is more brown girl friendly.  It's supposed to be a little bit deeper and leave no white cast against pigmented skin.  I agree.  The color is very similar to Ben Nye for those trying to get the same effect.  I feel as though the wear and coverage is the same between the two brands...and many other setting powders from other brands for that matter.

The container comes with a sifter which is awesome.  The price is 20.00 USD for the loose powder or compact option.  I am not a fan of the price...which is why it took me so long to try this product.  I got 30% during the holidays.  Ben Nye prices are much cheaper with many retail options.  Sacha Cosmetics is not offered at many retailers...you can purchase items from their website, www.sachacosmetics.com, or few authorized online retailers.  Overall,  I feel as though this is a good buy...or at least worth a try.  This is not my everyday, go to powder but I enjoy it.  Have you tried it?  Stay FABULOUS!

Sephora 15% Love Note Sale

Well, the spring sale is finally here.  Sephora has been mighty quiet about this spring sale for 2016.  Temptalia released some deets on the sale.  I will list the breakdown for the sale below.  Also, Rouge members are supposed to be able to have first dibs on merchandise at the Sephora stores starting April 7th.  What's on your shopping list?  Stay FABULOUS!

Dates

• VIB Rouges | April 7th through April 13th — 15% off with code ROUGENOTE
• VIBs | April 8th through April 13th — 15% off with code VIBNOTE
• BIs | April 9th through April 12th — 10% off with code BINOTE