Showing posts with label Cosmetics. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Cosmetics. Show all posts

My Must-Haves: Volume 7

My ever-expanding beauty arsenal has some items I've yet to share.


I've been using Batiste dry shampoo for ages, but finally they came out with a spray for brunettes. Travel sizes are now available too (but not in brown that I know of) - I keep them in my purse, gym bag, etc.  

This product is raved about by many and I have to attest it makes my hair soft and shiny and it smells super yummy. There's a mini bottle that's great for travel and the gym, I just keep it and fill it up from the larger bottle when it runs out. Beware blonds, I've heard using this can make your hair orangey.  

Revlon Super Lustrous Lipgloss, SPF 15 - Pink Afterglow
You can't beat this lipgloss - it's not sticky, has SPF and is very affordable.  I have a bunch of colors, but Pink Afterglow is my fave and perfect for everyday wear. 

 
This is my new favorite red - that's all.
 

My friend Lori gave these to me for Christmas and they work so well at exfoliating.  Perfect at  scrubbing away dry skin, especially before a spray tan. 

 
I like this eye cream because it's on the thicker side and feels really moisturizing.  I'm not really sure if there are any noticeable changes, but I like the way it feels.

My Must Haves: Volume 5

Time for another installment of my ever-changing list of necessities. To view previous picks, go here.




I use this every single day. Its not too thin, like many regular moisturizers and its not as thick as regular foundation. It has a slight sheen, and I've been told on more than one occasion that my skin is glowing, when that's all I've been wearing. And of course, the SPF is a necessity.

An absolute MUST. I go through so many cans of it. It gets rid of greasies and adds volume and texture without a powdery look. A life saver on days when I haven't washed my hair and is also great for touch ups mid-day when heading from work to drinks. It comes in 3 different scents, all of which are quite pleasant.




TIGI Bed Head Hard Head Hair Spray
This hair spry is strong enough to hold my curls for hours, but on the flip side, it doesn't make my hair crispy or sticky and untouchable.



Rimmel Glam'Eyes Mascara
As I've mentioned before, I am always trying new mascaras, looking for the perfect one. For now, this is it. While I'm normally not a fan of rubbery applicators, this one is different for some reason. Perhaps it's because the its thin and bristles are two different sizes. It's also flexible and soft. The results are long, clump and flake free lashes.


I've used the matte Urban Decay Primer Potion for quite some time and have given it rave reviews. This shimmery primer delivers the same, just with some color and shine. Sometimes I just use it alone as a simple base. Other times I layer shadow over it and it stays all day without creasing.




Vaseline Aloe Fresh Protecting Body Lotion w/ SPF 15
During the summer I like to sit outside during my lunch break, which means I must wear SPF. I don't like applying regular sunscreen on my body during the day when I'm at work, because it can get on my clothes, and smell like I should be at the beach, not the office. I like this light, fresh-smelling lotion, which contains SPF.


We all know Anastasia is the authority on brows. I've used the Anastasia Perfect Brow Pencil and Brow Ex-press in the past, but this newer addition is a dream. It goes on really easily and precisely, looks natural and is long lasting.

Luscious Lashes {Hopefully}

During my lunch break last week I strolled down to Makeup Mandy eyelash bar and makeup studio and accidentally ended up purchasing Dea Bella Eyelash Conditioner eyelash conditioner.


I had been wanting to try a lash enhancing product for a while and just hadn't got around to purchasing one, so it wasn't entirely and impulse buy, but it definitely wasn't as thrifty purchase (although, it was less expensive at Makeup Mandy than on the Dea Bella website).

The one I planned on buying was Beauty Society 'Enormous Lash' Eyelash Enhancing Serum, as my friend tried it and said it worked, but it was sold out during the Nordies sale online. Osmotics 'FNS Nutrilash' Lash & Brow Enhancer, Peter Thomas Roth Lashes To Die For Night Time Eyelash Conditioning Treatment, StimuLashFusion Intensive Night Conditioning Lash Enhancer, Talika Eyelash Lipocils and RevitaLash Eyelash Conditioner are other brand I've heard/read good things about. Latisse is getting a lot of press, but I heard it can be irritating and can change the color of your lids - scary! And, it's more of a hassle since it's a prescription treatment.

Anyway, the gal I purchased the Dea Bella from said their customers have been getting great results. You just apply it every night at bedtime and should see longer and stronger lashes in a few weeks. She also said it works on brows, which I was very happy about. I'd been using Anastasia Brown Enhancing Serum but haven't really noticed any change. Tonight will be my fourth application, so I'll let you know if I see any results in a month or two.

Tried it. Love it.


I finally bought the much-reviewed CoverGirl LashBlast mascara earlier this week. I must say, I am very impressed. It's truly one of the best mascaras I've used - and I've tried a lot. The rubber applicator made me a little wary at first, as I haven't liked others I've used in the past, but I didn't experience any problems with this one. The mascara itself is great - it goes on evenly with no clumping at all, lasts all day and doesn't flake off. My lashes appear longer than they do with other mascaras, thicker too. LashBlast is definitely going on my Must-Have list.

Bronzed and Moisturized

I love a nice tan, but have been trying to limit my sun exposure, so I've been trying out different gradual self-tanning moisturizers throughout the past couple of years. I like moisturizers much better than full-on self-tanning sprays and lotions, as those dry out my skin, often become blotchy, uneven or orange and the they stink. While many of the moisturizers don't smell that great, some aren't too bad and I can bare the scent at night. Of all I've tried, I think there is only one I am willing to wear during the day, however. Generally they all give even color and are more subtle than those that are strictly self-tanners. Here are my reviews on the tanning moisturizers I've tried - all from the drugstore or supermarket and under $10.


My top 2:

Nivea Body Sunkissed Firming Moisturizer


I really like the color the Nivea moisturizer gives, and it didn't take long to build color. The scent isn't nearly as bad as some of the others, but I still don't think I've ever used it during the day, as it does have a slight self-tanner odor. I didn't notice any firming action going on with my skin, but its a pretty good moisturizer and absorbs quickly.



Aveeno Active Naturals Continuous Radiance Moisturizing Lotion

By far the best smelling out of the bunch. I can't even detect any self-tanner scent. Its a really good moisturizer that absorbs quickly and the consistency is more like a "regular" lotion. Natural looking color.



And the rest:


Olay Body Touch of Sun Daily Body Lotion

The Olay Touch of Sun doesn't give the best color out of the bunch. Definitely not a golden hue. I would say its more yellowy. The smell is alight - I didn't mind it when I first put it on, but then it seems to intensify.



Hawaiian Tropic Island Glow Daily Moisturizer


Hawaiian Tropic Island Glow's scent is more tolerable than some of the others. The color is fine, but it wasn't very noticeable and took a while to appear.


Dove Energy Glow Beauty Body Lotion

I do not like the smell of the Dove Energy Glow. The lotion is thinner than I prefer and doesn't feel that moisturizing. It gives okay color.



Banana Boat EveryDay Glow, Tinted Moisturizing Lotion

I like the color the EveryDay Glow gave me. Again, it had a tanning smell, but it wasn't awful, but also wasn't pleasant enough for me to use during the day. It absorbs easily and feels moisturizing.



Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer

Jergens Natural Glow is the one I've used the most, only because of the color it provides. I really can't stand the scent anymore though - it's too strong. I only use this one before bed and I can't wear the same PJ's the following night because the smell is still lingering. It also takes a while to absorb and can be slightly greasy feeling.

Sun Shield

Every summer, no matter how much I avoid having a part in my hair, I always get sunburned along my hairline and on my scalp when in the sun. Having an itchy, peely scalp is definitely not fun, nor is it attractive in the least. I am hoping to find a solution to this problem this summer (when not wearing a hat, which is the most sensible and easy answer). I've searched the net and have found a few sprays that may work. I definitely want to stick with a spray (who wants to put lotion in their hair?) and I don't want anything oily or greasy. I also like a spray for my entire head, so my color won't fade and my hair won't dry out when in the sun and water. Let me know if you've tried any of these or know of any other products....


Oscar Blandi Capri Sun-Shield Spray

What it is: An "invisible shield" for your hair to help defend against sun and chlorine damage.

What it is formulated to do:Inspired by the island of Capri, where life is lived outdoors - "al fresco" - and where glamour and sun combine to create the perfect Italian paradise. Just as you would protect your skin with sunscreen, this spray uses UV inhibitors to protect your hair color from fading, while adding moisture, shine, and suppleness to counteract the drying effects of the sun and chlorine.





This light, refreshing spray protects body, hair, and scalp from harmful UVA/UVB rays, with no sensation of stickiness or heaviness. A unique spray mechanism facilitates ease of application, as it sprays even when held upside-down. Dual Sun Protection System: Offers optimal broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays in a light and refreshing formula. Vitamin E derivative offers antioxidant benefits. Very water-resistant. PABA-free. All Shiseido sun products proudly display the Skin Cancer Foundation seal of recommendation.





What it is:A finishing spray that gives hair brilliant high shine.

What it does:Frederic Fekkai Summer Hair SunShine Shield Spray adds a brilliant veil of shine and reflectivity to hair, while providing protection from UV rays and other environmental pollutants.

What else you need to know:This sheer spray also prevents moisture loss and imparts a silk feel to rough cuticles.






Strong Protection with Sunflower Extract
This oil-free styling and protective veil forms an invisible screen that protects the hair from the damaging drying effects of the sun, salt and chlorine. Provides a U.V. filter.
Sun, wind, salt, chlorine...all these elements are harsh on your hair. Heat has a drying effect (the hair's moisture content is reduced, it loses its softness); wind dries out the hair and increases static electricity; UV rays weaken the hair and fade color. Salt and chlorine attack the hair.
All these factors leave your hair damaged. The cuticle opens up, the hair breaks, and split ends appear. Result: your hair is dry, dull and impossible to style.
This strong protection veil shields the hair against the drying effects of the sun, wind, salt and chlorine. Sunflower extract - a photo protective agent with anti-free-radical action - provides a protective filter for the hair fiber. White Lotus extract maintains moisture levels in the hair. Sweet illipe butter, with emollient and hydrating properties, nourishes the hair and restores its suppleness.
This oil-free formula forms an invisible, protective screen. Restores shine. Sculpting effect. Contains a UV filter.



Davines Well Being Shelter pH 5.5 is a unique spray that hydrates and moisturizes both hair and skin, leaving them soft and silky.
Wheat proteins deeply moisturize and condition while the Dimethicone and UV filters protect hair from the sun, salt water, chlorine and pollution. With regular use, it also helps prevent split ends.




*I think the Shiseido Refreshing Sun Protection Spray SPF 16 PA+ is my best bet, as it seems to be more of an all-over srpay. I think I'll pick it up this week and will let you know the outcome next time I'm in the sun.

My (Maybe) Must-Haves: Vol. 4 - an Update

Here are my follow-up reviews after using the products I bought last month. Unfortunately only one item made it onto my definite "must-have" list.

I liked the Smashbox Bionic Mascara at first, but often near the end of the day, I had mascara residue under my eyes. Onward to a new mascara (currently Lancome Definicils Pro).

Erase Paste by Benefit is just so so. I like the consistency and it provides pretty good coverage, but the downside is that it tends to visibly crease under my eyes sometimes.

Smashbox Lip Enhancing Gloss in Pout is good, but not great. I think maybe the color is not quite right for me, but there's nothing really bad about the gloss.

Smashbox O-Gloss is the one that made the list. It's super soft and smooth and adds a nice rosy hue to your lips. The other day I was looking a little pale and only had the O-Gloss in my purse, so I dabbed a little on my cheeks and looked much more refreshed.

As a cosmetics junkie, rest assured that I will be purchasing, trying and reviewing more products soon.

My (Maybe) Must-Haves: Volume 4

We'll see if these items end up on my "must-have" list after I've used them for a while...

Last week I ran out of lipgloss, foundation and mascara. Well, I didn't run out of mascara, but I bought brown on accident - the horror! Seriously, black makes all the difference. I just didn't look right wearing brown.

Anyhoo, I cautiously went to Sephora to pick up the items I really needed. I have a tendency to accidentally find too many things I simply must have on most Sephora trips, so I tried my best to keep the spending to a minimum.

As I've said before, I'm always on a quest for the best mascara. The last one I used (not including the brown incident) was Imju Fiberwig. I liked it, but I got kind of tired of having my sink covered in black flecks after every face washing. So I decided it was time to move on. This time I opted for Smashbox Bionic Mascara. So far I like it a lot. It's lengthening and thickening and stays put. Oh and it's black. "Jet black" if I'm being specific.



My next item was Erase Paste by Benefit. You may remember I'd wanted to try when it came out a couple of months ago. It's fine, but not great. I like that it's creamy and not drying or too thick, but it doesn't completely rid me of my dark circles. I think I will try Lyndsy's suggestion for that facial inconvenience, which I too, have been graced with as of late. In the meantime, we'll see how Erase Paste works when I get a zit - that's the true test!


The last two lipglosses I've used (until the end of the tube) are Her Glossiness by Benefit. I like it, but thought I would switch it up. I got two new ones, both my Smashbox. The first is Lip Enhancing Gloss in Pout. It's a pretty, sort-of bubblegum pink. Not shocking pink, but a nice pink that I think would look especially good if I had a tan. The gloss itself if smooth, shiny and wearable. It feels moisturizing and not sticky.


The second gloss I decided on was Smashbox O-Gloss. I think this may be the softest, smoothest gloss I've ever used. It's kind of similar to another fave of mine, Smith's Rosebud Salve, but feels even better. It goes on clear, but changes to a berry shade once it's on your lips. I was a little surprised how pink it got, but I like it. Great for during the day when you want to feel like you have something on and you don't want to look dead (how Amber describes the way she looks if she doesn't have lipstick on - yes, she still wears lipstick) Note: Jackie, this is not a gloss for your nude-loving lips.

I want to try this....

I just got an email about Benefit Erase Paste and I really want to try it. I've been searching for the perfect concealer. According to Benefit, Erase Paste is a "brightening camouflage for the eyes and face." Have any of you tried it?



















More of the Blues



My newest nail polish obsession is OPI's Russian Navy. When I was applying the first coat I was a little wary of the color, but after the second coat I was sold. It's a gorgeous deep, inky, indigo - not tacky, teenage, 1990's blue. There is a slight purpleish shimmer, but again, it's tasteful, not tacky.

Wigging Out

I am always trying new mascaras - what I'm currently using is Imju Fiberwig.

Fiberwig goes on very easily and dries quickly without clumping. It takes a few applications because its fine and not thick. However, since it dries so fast, doing so itsn't as difficult as with gooey mascaras. Once applied, lashes are lengthened and separated and there's no smudging or flaking throughout the day. Washing it off is a breeze, and it comes off in pieces/chunks sort of, as opposed to running down and smearing on your face. Surprising at first, but so much better than the messy removal of other mascaras.

Helping Hands

As requested, I am doing a posting devoted to hand creams. Since I am not particularly well-versed on this subject, I asked some friends for their personal faves....



Kiehl's Ultimate Strength Hand Salve is Shelby's #1 hand moisturizer and I think it might just be my next purchase for the winter months. Its is a thick, rich formula offering all-day care and protection by forming a "glove-like" barrier against moisture loss.


A couple of Christmases ago my sister gave me L'Occitane 100% Shea Butter and its been on my bedside table ever since. Because its rather thick and semi-greasy, I only use it at night. Its great for hands and feet.



Since I like the L' Occitaine 100% shea butter for night, I think the Shea Butter Hand Cream - Travel Size would be perfect for the day. The creamy balm is enriched with 20% shea butter and contains honey, almond, and coconut oil.



I know many people with extremely dry skin, my sister included, Eucerin Plus Intensive Repair Hand Creme has been in her arsenal for as long as I can remember. In addition to helping dry skin, its also good for those with eczema.


If you look in my purse right now, you'll find GapBody mini hand cream in Loveshack. The cream, which contains cocoa seed butter, hazel seed oil and milk thistle, comes in eight delicious scents. It makes my hands super soft without the stickiness and greasiness of some creams .




Lisa's (aka Marge) pick for dehydrated hands is Nivea Creme . Its the same good 'ol Nivea, but in a smaller, more portable tube. Great for hands and all over.



Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream is a favorite of both Shelby and Jamie and has always been a constant in my grandma's medicine cabinet. Started by Norwegian fisherman, this cream is super concentrated, so you only need a dab. There are over 200 applications in one 2 oz. tube!


Bath & Body Works® Signature Collection Hand Cream in Sensual Amber was Erin's (aka Coffey) pick. Dating back to junior high, Bath & Body Works' lotions and creams have always been in my product collection. They always have such yummy fragrances and Sensual Amber is definitely one of the best.



Jackie's favorite for dry hands is Bliss Lemon + Sage Body Butter, a fresh, citrus-scented body butter, enriched with antioxidant vitamins A and E and arnica extract.


Christy's hand cream of choice is Acca Kappa White Moss Hand Cream , which is rich in vitamins A and E, karite butter and aloe vera. Its also formulated with sweet almond oil and enriched with Allantoin, which helps speed up cell regeneration.



Dove Pro Age Hand Cream is a new product I've seen, but was brought back to my attention by Jamie. Its supposed to even tone & texture and aid in the disappearance of age spots and wrinkles. It also contains SPF 5. I always put SPF on my hands when in the sun, its one of the first places your age truly shows. I guess you're never too young!



To soften her intensely dry skin, Brooke uses good 'ol Vaseline Petroleum Jelly and couldn't live without it. Though I don't use it on my hands, I do use it on my eyes every night to help prevent fine lines and wrinkles. Its also a a good eye-makeup remover and helps with diaper rash.