First Impression Review of New Drugstore Beauty Products | EcoTools | Physician's Formula | Jesse's Girl Cosmetics | Maybelline

This post contains PR samples and affiliate links

Doesn't it seem like there are new beauty products popping up every week? While it's totally exciting to oooohhh and aaaaahhhh over a shiny new product, figuring out which ones are worth the purchase isn't quite as pleasant.

Having to pick and choose totally puts a damper on those makeup baller dreams.

Alas, most of us need to be reasonable and avoid the FOMO purchase trap. Not nearly as fun. But probably much more satisfying in the long run. After all, you'll be happier with a few products you love than a room full of stuff you don't even use. Right?

Just think about how sad it would be to toss out a barely used product once it's reached its expiration date. Ouch! So many missed possibilities. 

So let me help you out.

Today I'll be applying a full face of makeup using new drugstore beauty products and letting you know whether each of these items is worth purchasing.

Jesse's Girl Backstage Collection Eyeshadow Palette | Jesse's Girl Eyeshadow Primer | Jesse's Girl Liquid Eyeliner | Jesse's Girl Matte Liquid Lip Color | Physician's Formula Cushion Corrector and Primer | Physician's Formula Butter Blush | EcoTools Perfecting Blending Duo | EcoTools Define & Highlight Brush Duo | Maybelline Cushion Foundation | Maybelline Dream Brightening Concealer | NYX Micro Brow Pencil

Like what you saw? Subscribe for more!

Join the ULTA Rewards program (free), get a $10 coupon! 

Use ebates for added savings and cash back when you shop! (Get a $10 gift card when you sign up)

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Additionally, some of the links in the post above are "referral links" or “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item or sign up for a service, I will receive an affiliate commission or referral rewards. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Maybelline Dream Cushion Foundation + Brightening Creamy Concealer | First Impression Review with Check Ins

This post contains affiliate and referral links*

Hi guys! I'm still knee deep in new product testing -- and loving every second of it, especially since I keep finding great items to tell you about. 

Well, today is no exception. 

I picked up the new Maybelline Dream Cushion foundation ($15.99, 0.51 oz)  and Dream Brightening Creamy concealer ($7.99, 0.11 oz) and took them out for a wear test. And today I'm going to show you how that went. 

Maybelline Dream Brightening Creamy Concealer (Classic Ivory 20) and Dream Cushion Foundation (Classic Ivory 20)

But before we jump in to the review, let's discuss what each of these products claim.

Maybelline's Dream Cushion foundation is:

•  Meant to deliver "increased color pigments [for] luminous coverage [and] fresh-faced perfection" [Source: ULTA site product description] 
• Available in eight shades 
• Good for all skin types (as long as you like luminous finish)

Maybelline's Dream Brightening Creamy concealer is: 

• "A cream-glide formula with light reflecting pearls that achieves brilliant bright eyed perfection" [Source: ULTA site product description]
• Available in five shades
• Meant to instantly illuminate under eye area

So we all know (or should know by now, unless you're new) that a luminous finish foundation is going to favor dry skin. But that doesn't mean it won't work if you battle oiliness. If you're oily, just make sure that a luminous finish product is water based (instead of oil based) to keep the shine a bit more controlled and avoid break outs.

I have combination skin and lately, because it's been cooler down here, it's leaning more towards combination dry than combination oily (which is what happens more in the warmer, humid months). I've had good results with cushion foundations before (see L'Oreal Lumi Cushion and It Cosmetics CC Veil) and can make them work throughout the year. I love that they offer color pay off and a really light weight feel. But I tend to prefer how they look and feel on me in winter and early spring -- before the oppressive heat and humidity really kicks in. Once it gets really hot and humid,  I switch to a matte formula.

Anyway, since it's that time of year when I can rock a luminous foundation with ease, it was time to dive in to Maybelline's latest product offering. Check out my video below to see my first impression application and subsequent check ins to see how this foundation and concealer held up.

Like what you saw? Subscribe for more!

Join the ULTA Rewards program (free), get a $10 coupon! 

Use ebates for added savings and cash back when you shop! (Get a $10 gift card when you sign up)

*Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are "referral links" or “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item or sign up for a service, I will receive an affiliate commission or referral rewards. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Review: Maybelline Master Precise Curvy Liquid Liner | First Impression

This post contains press samples, affiliate and referral links.*

If there's one thing that's obvious about my beauty look, it's that I love a winged liner.

My love of a cat eye has resulted in my testing out a lot of liquid liners to find my favorite ones.  And today I'm doing more of that.

Thanks to Influenster, I get to check out the Maybelline Master Precise Curvy liquid liner.  I got this along with The Colossal Big Shot mascara.

So this liquid liner's claim to fame is in it's uniquely shaped oval felt tip (pictured below). With it, you're supposed to be able to create thin or bold lines by just turning the direction you hold the liner. The flat edges will help you get close to the lash line and create thin precise lines. And you can wing out your liner using the tip. 

But, is it easier to work with than my holy grail pen liquid liners (Kat von D Tattoo liner, Lorac Front of the Line Pro, or Jesse's Girl liquid eyeliner)? Will it really demystify the cat eye? And will it make me a believer in a felt tip liner once again? 

Let's test this baby out and find out. Check out my experience in the video below. 

Like what you saw? Subscribe for more!

Join the ULTA Rewards program (free), get a $10 coupon! 

Use ebates for added savings and cash back when you shop! (Get a $10 gift card when you sign up)

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Additionally, some of the links in the post above are "referral links" or “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item or sign up for a service, I will receive an affiliate commission or referral rewards. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

First Impression Review: Maybelline The Colossal #BigShotMascara

This post contains PR samples, affiliate and referral links. *

Well guys, 2016 is almost officially behind us. Boy what a year it has been, huh? It certainly had its ups and downs.

Regardless of how you felt about 2016, on thing is for sure, we got a lot of new makeup releases and plenty to chat about in the beauty community.

And we can't close out the year without squeezing in one more product review for you. After all, that's the primary focus of this blog.

So we're bidding 2016 a fond farewell by chatting about voluminous lashes, courtesy of a new drugstore mascara. Seems appropriate, considering va-va-voom lashes are a must for New Years and beefing up my savings efforts (or rather ramping down my spending?) is a 2017 goal.

Enter the new Maybelline Colossal Big Shot Mascara ($6.49), which arrived on my doorstep courtesy of Influenster.

The mascara claims to deliver fully-loaded volume in just one coat. I'm not making this up guys. That's what it says on the packaging. It's other claim to fame is the brush. It's a regular bristle brush (not rubber). But instead of straight bristles, it also has curled bristles that are supposed to help grip your lashes to really separate them and coat them with mascara.

Maybelline Colossal Big Shot mascara wand

Listen, long, voluminous lashes are kind of my jam. (Aren't they everyone's?) So, I was ready to dig in and see if this mascara would really deliver. Check out my video below to see my first impression review.

And, in case you didn't get a close enough look at my mascara results in the video, here's a still shot for you. As you can see in the caption, it took three coats of mascara to reach this level of volume and lengthening. 

So much for fully loaded lashes in one coat...

Still, if you can look passed needing multiple coats (which I can), I think the results are pretty good. Now let's just hope the dry mascara formula doesn't result in mascara flaking into my eyes (or the tube lasting only a few weeks). 

Maybelline The Colossal Big Shot mascara (3 coats) 

Like what you saw? Subscribe for more!

Join the ULTA Rewards program (free), get a $10 coupon! 

Use ebates for added savings and cash back when you shop! (Get a $10 gift card when you sign up)

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Additionally, some of the links in the post above are "referral links" or “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item or sign up for a service, I will receive an affiliate commission or referral rewards. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Products I've Used Up | Makeup | #Empties

I'm back! Please forgive my unpredictable posting "schedule" -- life's just getting in my way. And it's not even exciting life stuff. It's the mundane stuff that's not even interesting to post about on social media. Nobody wants to watch a Snap about me sitting behind a desk working all day. YAWN. (I nodded off typing that sentence)

So, let's just leave it at this: I've been adulting.

But one exciting thing did happen last week. We got a new couch, finally. Our old one had been through five moves (read beat up). Suffered countless spills. Had a hole that always swallowed the remote. And the cats got sick on it a few too many times (all thoroughly cleaned, but still, I knew the incidents happened). Plus, I was tired of looking at it and ready for a different aesthetic.

I finally got it. My living room is now brighter, cozier and more open and inviting. I'm currently typing from the cuddler corner of the couch (an extra large corner seating area) as giddy as a school kid meeting their favorite boy band member. It's which quickly become my cozy little pillow and throw blanket covered nook.

And that is what qualifies as exciting in my world lately. Yup. That's full fledged adulting. And just in case you think I've reached some adult life low, it's been worse. I've also gotten stupid excited about a new vacuum. Basically, couch excitement is a step up.

Ok. While I was adulting, I decided it was time to clean out some junk. Literally. It was high time I shared a video about all the products I've used up, so I can finally toss out the packaging.

So without further ado. Check out my video below to see all the products I've used up and whether I thought they're good enough to repurchase.

Cinema Secrets Brush Cleaner Quick Dry Formula | Sephora Microsmooth Foundation | It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC Powder | L'Oreal True Match Lumi Cushion foundation | It Cosmetics CC Veil Fluid Foundation | Sephora Perfection Mist Airbrush Foundation | L'Oreal Telescopic Carbon Black mascara | Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes mascara | Bobbi Brown Smokey Eye mascara | Starlooks Luxe Longwear Eyeliner Pen | Stila Stay All Day Liquid Eyeliner | Lorac Front of the Line Pro liquid eyeliner pen | Urban Decay 24/7 Liquid Eyeliner | Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz | NYX Micro Brow | Maybelline Define-a-Brow | Maybelline Age Rewind concealer | Make Up For Ever HD Concealer | First Aid Beauty Eye Duty Triple Remedy | Skindinavia Primer Mist | Model in a Bottle Sensitive Skin Setting Spray  

What was the last makeup product you used up? Is it something I need to try? Comment below!

Like what you saw? Subscribe for more videos!

Join the ULTA Rewards program, earn a $10 coupon.

Use ebates to earn cash back when you shop. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links” or "referral links." This means if you click on the link and purchase the item or join a program, I will receive an affiliate commission or referral rewards. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Maybelline Vivid Matte Liquid Lip Color | Review + Swatches

The liquid lipstick trend is showing zero signs of slowing down. And I can totally get behind that. We've seen plenty of high end liquid lippies hit the market, but in the past year or so, affordable drugstore options have started to pop up like a vengeance.

The latest drugstore brand to join the party? Maybelline, whose Color Sensational lipstick line has been all the rage every season with each new color launch. Well guys, they added liquid lipsticks to the Color Sensational line for their Spring 2016 release, which hit stores earlier this month.

The Maybelline Color Sensational Vivid Matte Liquid Lip Color line retails for $7.99 each and has 10 shades ranging from soft easy nudes to bright, wild, and vampy shades.

Check out my video to see all 10 shades and find out how they perform.

Like what you saw? Subscribe for more videos!
Join the ULTA Rewards program and earn a $10 off coupon.

Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Review | New Maybelline Superstay Better Skin Foundation

- Press Samples -

I know a lot of you out there like reading and watching reviews all about new drugstore beauty items. And today I'm here to please because that's exactly what I have for you. Influenster sent me Maybelline's latest foundation, Maybelline Superstay Better Skin,  to test out as part of the #BetterSkinChallenge. As part of that challenge, I had to test out the foundation every day for three weeks so I could report my experience. 

Well ladies and gents, the three weeks are up and I've got stuff to tell you.

Let's discuss the foundation's claims:

• Long wearing formula that improves skin's appearance every minute you use it
• After three weeks you should see reduced spots, dullness and unevenness for brighter skin that is stress free (thanks to the antioxidant power of ingredients Actyl-C and Vitamin C)
• Provides medium to full coverage

A few more things you may want to know:

• The foundation retail price on Maybelline's site is $11.99, but it says prices will vary.  I have seen it at Target for $9.99 so my best advice is to shop around. 
• It comes in a pump bottle for easy dispensing and to keep things hygienic
• Available in 12 shades (I'm shade 25 Natural Beige)
• Oil-free formula

Maybelline Super Stay Better Skin Foundation 

After using this for three weeks here's what I can tell you:

Consistency:

The foundation has a medium consistency. It's not runny and serum-thin, but it's also not thick like a lot of long wear formulas. This sits comfortably in the middle. It blends easily and doesn't feel heavy on your skin. 

Maybelline Superstay Better Skin Foundation Shade 25 Natural Beige

Performance:

I wore the foundation every day anywhere from six to 12 hours per day during a super rainy, muggy, and hot time of year down here in Florida. Everything melts off in this weather so the foundation had its work cut out for it. Let's break down my findings:

• On its own (foundation and powder, no primer or setting/finishing spray) the foundation lasted throughout the day but with breakdown in my oiliest areas 
• With primer and setting/finishing spray I got much better performance with significantly less oiliness breaking through. I still experienced a little breakdown in my oiliest areas but it was significantly reduced. 
• To the naked eye, I didn't really notice much skin improvement. But after three weeks I was using a lot less foundation so I'm thinking some improvements must have transpired

Overall thoughts

I love the light weight feel, coverage and longevity of the foundation. However, I wish it had a bit more mattifying power. Considering the extreme heat and humidity,  I was still really impressed with how the foundation performed. I was expecting total product breakdown, but I was impressed to find that product breakdown experienced only occurred in specific areas where I was extra oily. If you have oily skin, you'll still need your blotting papers and be sure not to skip primer and setting spray to get the best results. What can you do? Oily skin will be oily. 

If you're looking for miracle skin improvements, you'll be disappointed. And honestly, if those are your expectations, it's time to visit the doctor. Prescription strength stuff might deliver the results you're seeking. While I didn't see noticeable changes to my skin, the fact that I used less product as time passed indicates some improvement did happen.

Now that you've seen the review and the product in action, what do you think of Maybelline's latest foundation? 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Beauty + Apparel Haul | Target, CVS, ULTA, Sephora & Lush

Hey there everybody! Let's all enjoy a lazy Sunday by wasting time on the Internet. I'll help you out. Here's a fun beauty and apparel haul.

P.S. -- I'm shopping at IMATS today so you know what that means -- another haul video is coming!

Haul: Collective purchasing from CVS, Walgreens, and Nordstrom Rack

Hey everyone. Hope you're having a great weekend. I filmed a little haul for your enjoyment. I picked up just a few (nothing big) items last week and I wanted to share those with you. 

Check out some of the other goodies I found. Watch!

By the way, has anyone heard of the brand c. Booth? And if so, what do you think about it/know about it? I just got two of their body oils and they smell INCREDIBLE (yes, I'm yelling, it's that good). I did a little research and found it's a drugstore brand and you can also get it at ULTA and Walgreens (online). There seem to be a lot of people out there who like it, and here I am totally out of the loop.

Spill the beans on it, I need to know more.

Drugstore Beauty | It List vol. 3

We're well into February now and it seems to me it's high time for a new edition of the Drugstore Beauty It List. If you're new to this series, I basically choose six drugstore beauty items that I've been loving and tell you about the. I try to post a new It List every month.

I try out a lot of new items all the time, and I don't always have time to review all of them. The It List is a great way for me to share some of my favorites with you, while giving you an abbreviated review. Whenever a full review is available for a product listed, I'll link to it.

Now let's take a gander at this month's favorites.

1. Garnier Clean+ Purifying Foam Cleanser ($5.99) / 2. Sally Hansen Nail Treatment Instant Cuticle Remover ($.499) / 3. Nivea Lip Care A Kiss of Care Color  ($4.99) / 4. L'Oreal Paris Elnett Extra Strong Hold Hairspray ($12.99) / 5. NYX Wonder Pencil ($4.50) / 6. Maybelline Dream Wonder Powder ($7.99)

Garnier Clean+ Purifying Foam Cleanser

If you have combination skin, it's time to rejoice. Garnier released a new line of skin cleansers and two of them are geared specifically for those of us with combination skin. The Purifying Foam Cleanser is meant to strike the delicate balance between deep cleaning oil annihilation and gentle moisturizing cleansing. Finally, we can have it all. Oil control without dehydrating your non-oily areas. I immediately noticed that my skin felt more balanced and produced less oil throughout the day. After a week, my skin was also noticeably softer. Read my full review for more details.  

Sally Hansen Instant Cuticle Remover

This product is a god send. I think everyone needs a bottle of this in their home. Not only does it help you treat stubborn cuticles and improve your manicure game, it also helps dissolve stubborn calluses too. This little $5 bottle also lasts a long time. I've been using it for several years now, and I think I've only on my fourth bottle. I use it at least once a week too. So here's the deal, you apply the serum/gel along your cuticle. Wait about 30 seconds. Then push your cuticles back. The product dissolves the cuticle, which means a lot less trimming (I still go in and trim here and there, but it's quite minimal. And yes, I know, you're not supposed to. But I do). Read my review here. 

Nivea A Kiss of Care and Color (new item)

I'm a big fan of Nivea lip balms. They're always so buttery smooth and superbly moisturizing. They recently released a new line called A Kiss of Care and Color and it's been popular. I went to three stores before I got my hands on these. The were sold out everywhere. I purchased two of the four available and I love it. They give you the moisture you're used to from Nivea with a pretty sheer hint of color. The color is just enough to be noticeable and you can build it up (though it'll still be sheer).

Even better: The shade Sheer Berry is practically an exact color dupe for Clinique's Black Honey (which has a huge cult following). If I had to find a difference, Nivea's is just the slightest bit more red. But wearing them side by side, the difference is imperceptible. So go ahead and save about $10 and pat yourself on the back. 

L'Oreal Elnett Hairspray

This has been the only hairspray I've purchased since discovering it about 4 years ago (maybe longer?). I'm not a huge fan of crunchy, stiff hairspray hold and this was the first hairspray I came across that gave me hold while still being flexible. Best of all, it brushes right out, which is absolutely perfect for me since I don't like to wash my hair every day. I know some people don't like the strong perfume-like fragrance on this one. Fear not, they make an unscented version too.

NYX Wonder Pencil

This aptly-named little gem is a versatile little miracle. You can use it for so many different things. You can spot conceal (note: these run light so if you plan to conceal a blemish, try a shade darker than what you use, otherwise you'll highlight it), use it to highlight under your brow, inner corner, and even hide fine lines. Give your eyes a little lift. Line your lower water line when you didn't get enough sleep. You'll pay less than $4.50 and find yourself reaching for this little pencil more often than you'd expect. Check out my full review and video demonstration for how I like to use it.

Maybelline Dream Wonder Powder

This new powder contains 60% less talc, which means you can apply it over your makeup without over mattifying your skin. It feels light and silky smooth without the telltale chalky effect that tends to cling to imperfections. Available in 16 shades, you're likely to find one that works for you. A word to the wise: These run a little dark and they do deposit color. Choose one shade lighter than the color you normally get.

There you have it. Did any of your favorite products make it to the It List this month? Any favorites you'd recommend I check out? You might just see it mentioned in future postings. Comment below, let's discuss. 

Haul: ULTA Friends & Family Sale + Coupon Link & More

Oops! I went shopping...

I have a weakness. I can't resist a good sale, especially of the beauty or shoe variety. This probably isn't news to anyone, but I'm putting it out there. 

Speaking of sales, ULTA is having their Friends & Family sale. It started January 12 and ends January 18. Oh, you didn't know? Don't worry, they've managed to keep it on the low. I'm used to getting emails and mailers from them and this time, nothing. Goose eggs. Nada. I found out about the sale on Instagram when someone posted about it (not ULTA). 

Here's how you can get the discount: Go to this site ulta.com/friends. Fill out your name, email address, and zip code. Wait for them to email you the coupon. (Don't worry, it takes less than 5 minutes. I did mine in the parking lot in front of ULTA)

Then, be a good friend and tell everyone. Just share the link because you can't forward the coupon (it's a one-time use only)

The coupon gets you 20% off your entire purchase, can be used in store or online, and includes prestige cosmetics. However, it excludes Urban Decay's Naked 1, 2 and 3 palettes. I think that's the only exclusion, except the Benefit Brow Bar. Exclusions are listed on the coupon, in case you forget.

You're welcome. 

Now that you know about this sale, you know I went shopping. Here's a video where I share everything I got. 

List of products (all prices listed are regular price, do not include 20% discount):

ULTA:

Gwen Stefani for OPI Rock Starlets Mini Set ($12.95)

Gwen Stefani for OPI Push and Shove Duet set ($9)

Gwen Stefani for OPI - In True Stefani Fashion ($9) 

China Glaze Mingle with Cringle ($3.99)

NYX Infinite Shadow Sticks - Almond and Flushed ($8.99 each)

Benefit Lip Lotto - Lady's Choice, Fame Game, LaLa Land ($18)

Maybelline Dream Wonder Powde - Nude ($8.99)

Urban Decay Naked Basics ($27)

Target:

Up & Up non-latex makeup sponges ($1.77)

Revlon ColorBurst Matte Balm - Elusive ($6.49)

Sally Beauty Supply: 

Beauty Secrets Pure Acetone ($3.69)

Buffing blocks - Black and Pink ($1.19 each)

Did you know about the Friends & Family sale? Did you get anything? Comment below, let's chat about it. 

Drugstore Beauty It List vol. 2

I'm back with another set of drugstore beauty items that I love. I know it's only the second installment of this little series, but I've already changed the name. I decided the "It List" was a better name for it. I'm hoping it'll stick. Do you guys like it?

So, what's this it list? Basically, I'll periodically share a list of some of my favorite items from the drugstore. They'll all be beauty related in some way and will include makeup, skin care, hair care, beauty tools, and sometimes random stuff you might not have thought to use as a beauty product. It'll also include items I've already reviewed (in case you missed it) and some I haven't.

Pretty simple, right?

Let's get into it.

1. Maybelline Expert Wear Twin Brow Pencils ($2.99) / 2. Neutrogena waterproof eye makeup remover ($5.99) / 3. L'Oreal Voluminous Mascara ($5.99) / 4. St. Ives Fresh Hydration Lotion Spray ($5.99) / 6. Milani Eyeshadow Primer Nude ($6.99)

Maybelline Expert Wear Twin Brown Pencils: I love these little pencils. They're super affordable and they work great. They're not overly creamy, which I like because I feel like the creamy pencils deposit too much color and end up making me look like I have caterpillar brows. Not my favorite look. Also, how can you not love the price? $3 for two pencils? Um, yes. 

Note: I use the blonde shade and my brows are relatively dark. I know gals with dark hair and dark brows that also favor the blonde shade in these. If you actually have blonde or light brows, this may not be the best option for you. 

Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover: If you need to remove stubborn mascara and eyeshadow and prefer to do it without roughly rubbing your skin raw, try this. The dual phase formula looks like oil and water (you know, it doesn't mix) but it's oil free, you shake it to mix them together, pour it on a cotton round, and swipe away makeup. I like to hold it over my eye lid for a few seconds to help dissolve makeup, then wipe away. Easy. Depending on how much makeup you're wearing, you may need to swipe more or less. But you'll never have to tug on your skin.  

Note: The generic store brand of this item usually works just as well. Go ahead and save an extra buck or two. 

L'Oreal Voluminous Mascara: What can I say about this mascara that hasn't already been said, ad nauseum, all over the Internet? I'm being serious. If you haven't heard of it, I don't even know what to say to you. Ok, here's what you need to know: It's super black (get Carbon Black), volumizes  excellently, makes your lashes look longer. It's your little black dress for your lashes. There's the Cliff's Notes for ya. 

St. Ives Fresh Hydration Lotion Spray: I love that these spray lotions make it easy to moisturize and pull up your skinny jeans without a struggle. You know what I'm talking about. Check out my review, so you can get more details. Just know, I approve. 

Up & Up Makeup Wipes: OK, these are basically the generic version of Ponds makeup wipes. Those are good too, but I stopped buying the name brand because these Up & Up ones are pretty awesome. They're moist (ew) and they don't sting when you wipe makeup away from your eyes. I lean on these when I'm feeling lazy about makeup removal (read: It's really late and I'm probably intoxicated). 

Milani Eyeshadow Primer: Wanna save some money on eyeshadow primer? Check this one out. Only $7 and works just as well as those popular name brand ones. Check out my review for more of my gushing. 

That's it for this episode of drugstore beauty favorites. Any of these on your favorite list as well? 

Drugstore Beauty Products I love vol.1

As a professed product junkie, you can imagine I've endured my fair share of trial and error with beauty products. Thank goodness for the internet and everyone giving their opinions because it's really helped me discover some gems, and even avoid some pitfalls. 

The way I see it, why not pay it forward? From time to time, I'll be sharing a post that will highlight some of my favorite drugstore beauty items. They'll range from makeup to nails to skin care and anything else under the beauty umbrella.

To kick this off, I'd like to share some affordable items that are usually on a pretty heavy rotation in my extensive arsenal. 

1. Yes to Grapefruit lip balm ($2.99) / 2. Revlon Color Burst Lip Butter - Peach Parfait ($6.50) / 3. Jordana Easyliner for Lips Retractable Pencil - Tawny ($1.99) / 4. L'Oreal Paris Infallible Eyeshadow - Iced Latte ($8.50) / 5. Maybelline Dream Lumi Touch Highlighting Concealer ($6.50) / 6. L Oréal Paris Colour Riche lipstick - True Red ($5.99) /  7. Sinful Colors nail polish ($1.99)

Yes to... lip balms

I stumbled upon these recently at Target and I got one in every flavor. My favorites are the Yes to Grapefruit because I love the scent and Yes to Pomegranate because it has SPF (and smells good too). They also come in Yes to Blueberries. All three lip balms are buttery smooth and moisturizing and I love the new flattened packaging, as it fits comfortably in your pocket with minimal bulging (go ahead and laugh you dirty thinkers). Best of all, when I picked mine up they had a $2 off instant coupon attached so each one only cost me 99¢. 

Revlon Colorburst lip butter in Peach Parfait

Revlon's lip butters have enjoyed quite the rapid rise to cult status. Everyone who's tried them loves them. There's no shortage of YouTube gurus out there who've reviewed and raved about them when they first came out. I'll spare you the repetition. You can find these in a wide range of colors, depending on what inspires you. I'm here to tell you that Peach Parfait is the perfect every day color that will suit just about anyone. It's a pretty peach shimmer that deposits just the right amount of color. Swipe it on before work or school and keep it in your purse for reapplication later.

Jordana Easyliner retractable lip liners - Tawny

I have a hard time spending a lot of money on lip liners because I don't use them as often as I should. That's not to say I haven't splurged, it's just not as common. Jordana's retractable lip liners are awesome because they're creamy and soft (similar to a MAC retractable liner) and they're super cheap. They have a fair color selection that will work with most lip color shades. My favorite is Tawny. It's a great nude-pink that I use under just about anything. 

L'Oreal Infallible eyeshadow - Iced Latte

The entire line of these cream shadows is fantastic. They can be built up or worn sheer. I love Iced Latte as an everyday color. It's a shimmery champagne beige. You can wear it alone or over primer. Either way, you'll experience impressive lasting power. I reach for this color almost every time I do my makeup. 

Maybelline Dream Lumi Highlighting concealer

Anyone who asks me about my favorite drugstore concealer always get the same answer. I've gone through about four or five of these by now and I keep coming back for more. I love how this blends easily, comes in a good range of colors, is affordable, and conceals and brightens. It's not for concealing blemishes though. As the name implies, it will highlight them. I've heard people online compare this to the YSL Touche Eclat. I have not tried that concealer for myself because I like this Maybelline version so much, I haven't felt the need to be led astray.

L'Oreal Colour Riche lipstick - True Red

As a beauty blogger, I'm often asked about red lipstick. People are usually wary of this look and always want to test out a drugstore version before they invest. Getting the right color red can be tricky, especially when you're first starting. My suggestion, start with a neutral red (not too yellow, not too blue). It will be less likely to clash with your skin tone and you can practice until you get it right and get used to wearing a statement lip. My favorite is L'Oreal Colour Riche in True Red. It's got great color pay off, it's creamy, and it's affordable. 

Sinful Colors nail polishes

It's no secret I love these polishes. I've yet to buy one I don't like. I always get great color pay off and smooth application. And they have a pretty decent color selection. I love that they're less than $2 and often go on sale at Walgreens for 99¢. Great quality doesn't always have to cost an arm and a leg. 

What do you think of this first installment of my favorite drugstore beauty products? Are there any items you think should make the list? Do you want to keep seeing posts like this? 

Five Minute Face Using Garnier BB Cream

Here's a quick video to show you my go-to makeup look lately. I wanted to make this video for two reasons:

1. It's a quick makeup look that should only take you 5 minutes (but definitely less than 10 depending on how long it takes you to blend) to do. You can look presentable no matter where you're going. The main focus is giving you a fresh-faced look that is flawless but not overdone, which means it's appropriate for anything -- groceries, errands, shopping, school, the office, or anywhere else you want to look presentable.
2. I wanted you to be able to see the Garnier BB cream that I just recently reviewed (get all the details here). I think it gives excellent coverage (almost foundation like) and has a great matte, natural-looking finish and you can see it for yourself in this video. 

I hope you like it! let me know what you think!

Video software and music: iMovie and Dan-O from www.danosongs.com

This is not a sponsored post. 

Review: Maybelline ColorSensational Vivids

By now you've probably seen the new Maybelline ColorSensational Vivids lipstick line . When I first saw this line of lipsticks I was a little intimidated by some of the colors. But I purchased Vivid Rose because I'm a sucker for a hot pink, plus, I thought it might be a dupe for Girl About Town. Alas, it wasn't, but I quickly discovered how much I loved that lipstick and it prompted me to buy more. 

If you've used the ColorSensational lipstick line, then you know Maybelline makes an amazing product and the Vivids line is no exception. What you'll get:

• Amazing, high-end color pay off for a drugstore cost ($5.99 - $7.99 depending on where you get it)
• Amazingly bright color selection that's surprisingly wearable -- so you can jump on the trend
• Creamy formula that's glides on easily and isn't drying
• Fun, trendy colors that are accessible to everyone
• A satin finish for just a hint of shine

Check out the swatches below:

Fuschia Flash is a pretty pretty pink. To me, it looks less fuchsia and more of like a candy pink. In fact, it something I think Elle Woods from Legally Blonde would gravitate towards. I purchased it after a reader posted a comment on Facebook and said she'd heard that Fuchsia Flash is supposed to be a dupe for MAC's Candy Yum Yum. I don't own Candy Yum Yum, but now that I have Fuchsia Flash, I may need to take a trip to the MAC counter and swatch them side by side to see for myself. Has anyone else heard this? Can anyone confirm if it's true?

Next up, is Hot Plum, a bright purple-pink that is bright, fun, and just a little different from your average pink lipstick. I actually thought it might be a close call for yet another MAC lipstick that I don't own (Violetta), but I don't think it is. Maybe Brazen Berry in the collection comes close, does anyone out there know?  Regardless, I love the color. The photo you see above is under a daylight bulb, while the one below is in natural daylight. When I first saw it, I shied away, it looked so bright I was intimidated. I mean, I like some of the plum hues that come around in fall, but I wasn't sure how I'd feel about the purple tones in a bright neon. I'm glad I finally faced my fear because it was totally wearable.

Finally, my favorite of the bunch, Vivid Rose. I bought it first for a reason after all, it attracted my attention first. It's a beautiful bright neon pink that leans toward a deep, bright rosy hue. And if you've seen my video about my favorite hot pink lipsticks then you know how much I love this baby. It might not be a dupe for MAC Girl About Town, like I first thought, but it turns out, it's a dead ringer for OCC's lip tar in Anime. I show you in the video, so you should definitely check that out.

What do you think of the Vivids collection? Have you tried it? Are you a fan? Which is your favorite Vivid? And are you brave enough to wear the bright trend? Comment and tell me what you think below!

Review: Maybelline The Rocket Volum Express Mascara

If you've been through the makeup section of a drugstore lately you've probably noticed the new Maybelline The Rocket Volum Express mascara. It's claim to fame: eight times the volume thanks in large part to its brush, which is supposed to separate your lashes better than any other and eliminate clumps.

Does it live up to its claim? Check out my video to see what I have to say (or if you just prefer the highlights, scroll down to see my synopsis).

Cost: $5.99 at most drugstores (a definite plus that you don't have to pay more for the latest new product, the price is comparable to other Maybelline and Cover Girl mascaras)

Availability: It's a drugstore brand so it's easy to find at many locations. Thumbs up on accessibility.

The brush:

• A fat, blunt, rubber mascara brush that is strikingly similar to Cover Girl Lash Blast Volume
• The main difference: the bristles. The brush has longer bristles and more of them. If it was larger and made of iron it would look like a medieval weapon. 
• Warning: Be careful when getting down to the base of your lashes with this one. The bristles are long and bit sharp. It hurts like a mother if you hit your eye. I know, I did it. Don't try it at home. 

The formula: 

• Starts off a bit wet for my taste, which in my opinion made it difficult to build up the mascara
• After a few days it dries down a bit to a better consistency and is much easier to build up. 
• It's heavy duty! I did not buy the waterproof version and it's difficult to wash off, even with makeup removers that normally melt off any traces of makeup and mascara. 
• Once it dries, it makes your lashes super stiff. I liken it to super hold hair spray. Its like armor around your lashes (maybe that's why it's hard to wash off)
• I find the blackest black formula to measure up in darkness

Performance: 

• The brush really does an excellent job separating my lashes giving me volume because all of my lashes are showing. What I don't think it does as well is make my lashes look thicker. So I have a lot of them, but they don't look as thick. I'd compare it to someone who has a lot of hair but it's still falls flat or has a lot of hair but it's fine hair so it doesn't look as full. 
• It lengthens just ok, nothing spectacular (but it's really supposed to be a volumizing mascara so I guess I can't fault it as much for that)
• It doesn't clump or smudge (it better not, considering this mascara feels like it's welded to your lashes)

Overall, this mascara is just so-so. The things I like the most are that it's affordable and accessible and that it really separates my lashes, but those things don't really have much to do with the mascara's formula or performance. If it thickened my lashes better and were easier to wash off, I would like it a lot more. But as it stands, it's not better than Cover Girl Lash Blast Volume. I'm not saying I would never buy this again, but it's certainly not my first choice. The store would have to be out of Lash Blast and Voluminous before I'd reach for it.

If you've tried Maybelline's The Rocket mascara, did you have a similar experience as I did with it?

My favorite hot pink lipsticks

I'm a huge fan of bright pink lips. I'll rock them all year long, but I'm glad it's still expected to be on trend this spring. Whenever I'm wearing hot pink lipstick people ask me about it, so I thought I'd share some of my favorite bright pinks.



MAC Girl About Town ($15)

• Bright blue-based fuchsia 
• Creamy, moisturizing, and beautifully pigmented
• Satin finish
• Has the quality you expect from MAC products
• Nice vanilla scent
• Easily accessible at MAC stores and department stores with MAC counters as well as online
• By far the one I get asked about the most

OFRA Cosmetics #203 ($13)

• Highly pigmented and bright
• Similar to Girl About Town, but not nearly as blue, more rosy and like a true bright pink
• Creamy although less so than Girl About Town
• Matte finish
• Unscented
• Available online

OCC Lip Tar in Anime ($16)

• Vibrant neon pink
• Liquid lipstick that is opaque and moisturizing (has Hemp Oil and Vitamin E)
• Dries down to a satin finish
• Heavily pigmented - one drop is more than enough product (and sometimes even too much)
• Peppermint oil gives it a nice minty scent without being overpowering
• Great for mixing with other lip tars to creat custom colors
• Easily accessible at Sephora and online
• Only con is that is can be a bit difficult to apply since you can't just swipe it on as easily as you would a lipstick or lip gloss. Be careful not to over apply as it can result in feathering at the lip line. 

Maybelline ColorSensational Vivids Collection in Wild Rose ($7.99)

• Stunning neon pink (rosy red toned)
• Highly pigmented, creamy and moisturizing (as we've come to expect from the ColorSensational line)
• Satin finish
• Really close dupe for Anime. I actually bought it thinking it might be a dupe for Girl About Town, but it's not nearly as blue-toned.
• Easy to find at any drugstore at a price point that is easy on the wallet

Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Sweetheart ($8.99)

• The best of all worlds combined: moisturizing like a lip balm, the shine of a gloss, long lasting like a stain, and the stick from makes it easy to apply like a lipstick
• This is the sheerest of the hot pinks in this post but it packs a punch and can easily be built up to be opaque like a lip stick
• Great if you are timid about going all in on a lipstick because it can be worn sheer or intense

Do you have any favorite bright pink lipsticks you think I should check out?