Estee Lauder Edit "The Blackest Liner" Review

I'm still trying out a few of the products from the Estee Lauder Edit line, so stay tuned for more reviews.  The eyeliner in the collection is a jumbo liquid eyeliner.  It claims to be the blackest liner and last for 12 hours.

I suppose that I will start with what I do agree with...  The liner definitely has great staying power.  I wore it for over 8 hours with no smudging or fading.  The liner is very easily to work with...it glides on smoothly giving an even application in just one swipe.

Now, Estee Lauder stated that this was the blackest black liner...maybe in their collection.  Although, there is great pigmentation, this is not the blackest liner that I have tried.  (I think Kat Von D still holds the cake on that one).  The thick line created from this liner is definitely going to make a statement, but it is not the most dramatic.

The liner retails for 22.00 USD for 0.085 of product, which is more than the typical liquid eyeliner with similar pricing.  Overall, it's a decent product, and you get more for the money.  I will continue using this product, but I doubt that I will repurchase this product.  What's your favorite liquid eyeliner?  Stay FABULOUS!

Estee Lauder Edit More Than Brows Review

I have a few reviews coming from the new Estee Lauder Edit line.  I  thought that the More Than Brows pencil looked promising.  Checkout what Estee Lauder says:

Get everything you need for eyes in one pencil. More Than Brows fills in brows in a snap, lines your eyes with one stroke, and softly contours lids. With just a few strokes, this power pencil lets you finish off your eye looks.

It's a chunky pencil that comes in five shades.  I chose the second to darkest shade in 05 Espresso.  Upon swatching the pencil, there is a slight shimmer in the product.  I purchased the product initially only for my brows, but I was very hesitant to try the product once I saw the shimmer.  The pencil is very creamy and applies well.  I was not a fan of the grayish cast that the Expresso color left on my brows.  To my surprise, I actually liked the slight shimmer on my brows.  I think that it would look great in a summer, bronze look.

I only used the pencil to fill in my brows with the fear of a messy application once the tip wears down on the pencil.  Now pricing...you get 0.04 oz of product for 22.00 USD.  Now, the pencil/shadow is an interesting concept, but I do not think that it's worth the price.  I will mostly continue to use it, but I would not repurchase this product.  What do you think about the three in one pencil?  Stay FABULOUS!

Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Luminous Blush Review

Becca Cosmetics recently released a new blush formulation called the shimmering skin perfector luminous blush.  It supposed to be a combination of the shimmering skin perfectors and their blush.  Six shades were released on Sephora.com.  Sephora's spill:

BECCA’s Shimmering Skin Perfector™ Luminous Blush features multi-dimensional, versatile blushes to create a subtle, shimmering flush. Specially designed to flatter all skintones, this collection is inspired by the fan favorite Shimmering Skin Perfector—just the right balance of color and light. Wear them alone for subtle blushed luminosity, or as a blush topper layered on top of your favorite matte blush for an added pop of radiance. 

 The thought of combining two great Becca products intrigued me.  I chose dahilia and tigerlily.  The shades are very pigmented and smooth and buttery.  The color applies a splash of color with a sheen.  Women of color may maximize the usage as a blush topper.  With summer approaching, these blushes are a great addition to any makeup look, because you are adding color and glow in one product.  Summer vacation travel just became easier!



These blushes retail for 34.00 USD for 0.21 oz of product, which is 2.00 more than the Becca mineral blushes.  I must admit that the prices are steep, but Becca's quality is amazing.  I just wish that there was a little more color intensity to the product.  Have you tried the new luminous blushes?  Stay FABULOUS!

Anastasia Beverly Hills Sun Dipped Glow Kit Coming Soon

 ABH is definitely conjuring up some good stuff in their makeup lab.  ABH released online that there will be another glow kit...the palette will be the Sun Dipped palette.  It's full of bronzy goodness!  I wanted to start a makeup no buy, but I would be lying if all of these products release in the next couple of months!  I definitely do not need anymore hightlighters, but they are addicting.  The launch date has not been disclosed, but I will keep you posted.  Will you be snagging this palette?  Stay FABULOUS!

New Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance Palette Coming Soon

Anastasia Beverly Hills has released several sneak peeks of the upcoming summer palette:  Modern Renaissance.  The warm tones and pinks have my head spinning!  The palette will retail for 42.00 USD, which is much more than the previous eyeshadow palettes.  The exact release date has not been disclosed.  Keep an eye out.  I definitely want to get this palette.  Will you be snagging this?  Stay FABULOUS!

Milani Conceal + Perfect 2 in 1 Foundation and Powder and Even Touch Powder Foundation Review

So, I have still been on the hunt for a good drugstore foundation.  The struggle is finding a product that works well for my oily skin and has a good color match for women of color.  Milani is a popular brand with many women of color friendly products.  Recently, they have released their 2 in 1 foundation that works as concealer and foundation.

The line comes with 14 liquid foundation shades and 9 powder foundation shades.  I am impressed with the color tones especially for the women of color...not too yellow or pink.  I chose the color number 13 Chestnut, the second to darkest shade, and it is a perfect match.  The foundation comes with a pump.  The product is a more of a watery consistency, so be gentle when pumping the product.  I used a beauty blender for application, and the foundation blended wonderfully.  The foundation set to semi-matte finish.

The chose the darkest shade, 08 Warm Toffee, in the Even Touch Powder foundation and it's a good color match for my skin tone.  I purchased the powder foundation solely to set my liquid foundation.  The Milani website states that this powder can toggle between a setting powder and touch-up powder.  The powder adds good coverage and creates more of a matte finish in combination with the liquid foundation.  I prefer this finish over the semi-matte due to the oiliness of my skin.  The final look wore well for 6 six hours without shine. 

Both products retails for approximately 9.99 USD depending on where you purchase the product.  Due to my demographic location, I was not able to find any of the women of color shades in my local drugstores.  I purchased my products directly from the Milani website.

Overall,  I am impressed with quality, longevity, and coverage of this foundation.  I think that it is definitely one worth a try.  Have you tried this foundation?  What's your favorite drugstore foundation?  Stay FABULOUS!

Check out my photos below...

After 8 hours...

New Urban Decay Vice Lipsticks Coming Soon

I knew those lipsticks sales were for something....making room for a whole new lipstick collection, maybe?!  Urban Decay just reformulated and has an upcoming release of over 100 new lipstick shades.  Some shades are returning from the revolution line.  20 Shades will be exclusive to Sephora, and 20 shades will not be in Sephora but present at other retailers.  The shade range is enormous, and I do not even know where to start!  Even though I have enough lipsticks to last a lifetime, I will probably snag a few colors.  The collection will release June 5th everywhere.

In the meantime, the revolution lipsticks are still on sale for 11.00 USD at all retailers.  Grab a few colors for the low.  I really liked the matte revolution lipsticks, so I may grab one or two more colors while they are still available.  Are you excited?  Stay FABULOUS!

Jaclyn Hill Champagne Glow Palette Available Now!

Hey Beauties!  Surprise! Jaclyn Hill has another collaboration with Becca Cosmetics.  The new palette includes two shimmering skin perfectors (Champagne Pop and Prosecco Pop), two mineral blushes (Amaretto and Pamplemousse), and one luminous blush (Rose Spritz).  All shades are new except for the infamous Champagne Pop.  The palette retails for 52.00 USD.  The palette is expected to release 5/26 online and 6/16 in Sephora stores.

*Becca just posted a early bird release!  Download the Sephora app and type champagneglow into the search field to purchase the palette now.  While supplies last!

Stay FABULOUS!

Kate Somerville Exfolikate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment

A new skincare review for you Beauties.  I normally do not try too many skincare products because like they say...if it ain't broke, don't fix it.  But, sometimes our skin becomes desentisized to products.  So, my skin needed a change.  I have previously reviewed the cleanser by Kate Somerville, and I was very impressed.  I can also say the same for the Exfoilikate Intensive Exfoilating Treatment.  You get 0.5 oz retails for 24.00 USD.  The larger sizes varies from 85.00 USD to 125.00 USD.

See what Kate Somerville says:

Kate Somerville ExfoliKate® Intensive Exfoliating Treatment is Kate's top-selling product, and the next best thing to seeing Kate in the clinic. This signature, expert formula works both physically and enzymatically to deliver safe, dramatic results in one application—and in the comfort of your own home. It effectively combats acne and blackheads, reduces discoloration, and polishes skin for a smooth complexion. Ideal for all skin types except sensitive skin, it harnesses the power of fruit enzymes to clarify skin by removing dead cells and eliminating bacteria. Skin will appear healthy, youthful, and vibrant. 

The product contains a green, thick product with medium to large exfoilating particles.  I rub the product in for 30 seconds as instructed and rinse the product away.  This definitely makes my skin feel polished and smooth.  I love a product that feels gentle during the application process but leaves your skin feeling like you must have gone through a deep treatment.  I have noticed a more radiant and healthy appearance to my skin.  I tried the product out for about 6 weeks twice a week.  The instructions state that you can you can use it morning or night and daily.  I got a great deal with the cleanser and exfoilator for 50.00 USD at Sephora.com.  The special includes a full size cleanser and a 0.5 oz exfoilator.  What's your favorite exfoilator?  Stay FABULOUS!

Beauty Blender vs. All Other Sponges

Is the beauty blender different from all of the other beauty sponges on the market?  I get this question several times a day. ..

My honest answer is yes.  A sponge is sponge, right?  Yes, to a certain extent they all serve their purpose.  I have used sponges from Real Techniques, brand sponges from local beauty suppliers, and more.  Most sponges are noticeably firm in comparison to the Beauty Blender.  I believe the firmness is meant to prevent absorption, but the flexibility and manageability of the sponge become comprised.  In my opinion, it does not really matter if these sponges are wet or dry.  The product will just soak into the sponge or just sit in the creases of the sponge.  The application can vary for just about every sponge that I have tried.  With the exception of Real Techniques, the application can be a bit streaky.  I can say that all of the sponges that I have tried have gotten the job done. 

What I have learned about Beauty Blenders…Beauty Blender claims to have created their beauty blenders with a unique and exclusive material that contains an open cell structure.  This open cell structure allows the blender to fill with small amounts of water when wet.  The fullness of the Beauty Blender allows the product to sit on the blender for application and prevents waste of product from soaking into the sponge.  The Beauty Blender has a soft, extremely spongy feel even when dry.

Think you see the key difference?  The density and material of the sponge…  I think Beauty Blender has mastered the art of creating an application tool that does not waste product and provides an even, smooth application.  I have not found any close comparison.  What about you?  Is there a difference?  Stay FABULOUS!

Sephora Collection Teint Infusion Ethereal Natural Finish Foundation Review

I do not review Sephora Collection items that often.  It's not that I dislike them, I am just drawn to so many other makeup brands in the universe!  I received this foundation in gratis.  This is part of the Sephora Collection which is exclusive to Sephora.  You receive 0.67 oz for 24.00 USD which is steal compared to other foundations on the market except MAC.  Here is Sephora's take:

The ultra-fluid texture of this formula flawlessly melts onto skin for buildable light-to-medium coverage and the feeling of wearing no foundation at all. The formula glides on for foolproof application and moisturizes to create visibly smoother skin.

So, my thoughts.  This foundation comes with  dropper similar to some of the new high end foundations out such as Marc Jacobs, Giorgio Armani, and so on... I am not thrilled with using a dropper or spatula applicator to apply my foundation.  I suppose one pro is that it saves on foundation.  But, one con that I have noticed working in Sephora that this product is hard to get out of the bottle once you go below 30 percent or so...now you are wasting product.

The consistency is more liquidy.  The application yielded a lightweight, medium coverage.  I definitely had the feeling of no foundation.  It wore comfortably throughout a workday.  It left a more satin finish.  This foundation is not marketed toward oily girls like me because of its infusion properties.  I started becoming oily within two hours, but I did not have to blot excessively throughout the day.  I wore the foundation in no more than 6 hour time frames.  Beyond that time could have resulted in really oily mess.

The color match was decent.  There are really only three women of color shades.  I wore #45 which is second from the darkest.  The darkest is like a 5 shade difference in color.  I found the shade just a little too light for my preference, but nothing a darker powder couldn't fix.

This foundation is decent and nothing to write home about.  It will be an easy lightweight foundation to throw on when I running errands and not going to be out all day.  For a similar price, I could actually get a good MAC foundation.  But, this is something definitely worth a try for dry, combination beauties looking for lightweight coverage on a budget.  Stay FABULOUS!

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!

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!

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!