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!

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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.”

Haul: Sephora VIB Sale, Henri Bendel + Nordstrom Rack

I went shopping! Wow! It's been a while since I shared a haul with you guys.

Although, it has not been that long since I shopped. I've just been slacking on the haul videos. I know you guys like them, so I'm sorry I've been withholding.

I'll do better.

Anyway, if you're an active member of the beauty community and not living under a rock, then you knew that Sephora recently had their Beauty Insider (BI) sale. If you don't know what that is, let's break it down. If you join the Sephora BI program (it's free!) you get invited to their semiannual sale. Depending on your level (e.g. BI, VIB, or VIB Rouge) you'll get 10-15% off your entire purchase and can use the discount over multiple transactions. VIBs and VIB Rouge members will get the larger discount and a few extra days of shopping.

It turns into kind of a big deal. VIB and VIB Rouge members shop so hard Sephora will sometimes sell out of items before the sale even begins for BIs. It gets a little cray guys. People take their makeup seriously.

I usually use this time to pick up items I know I'll repurchase throughout the year (e.g., Clarisonic replacement brushes) and snag some new items along the way. While that approach is pretty logical, things add up. Fast.

But this year, I did something amazing. I was not a crazed discount seeker. I exercised self control. True story. It was strangely liberating.

Come see the few items that made the cut this time around -- and a few extra items I picked up at other stores that same day.

Sephora Microsmooth Foundation (Light & Medium) | Benefit Cheekathon Palette | Kat Von D Tattoo Liner | Kat von D Ink Liner |  Henri Bendel West 57th smartphone case

Like what you saw? Subscribe for more videos!

Use ebates when you shop online for extra savings! (and a $10 gift card when you sign up)

**Items purchased at Nordstrom Rack were not available online so I could not link to them

VIDEO CORRECTION: I purchased the Kat von D Ink liner, but meant to buy the Tattoo liner. The difference? The applicator brush. The Ink liner has a felt tip applicator (not my fave) and the Tattoo liner has the brush tip applicator (BAE). I went back to Sephora and exchanged the liner after I filmed the video, which is when I realized I had gotten the wrong one.

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.”

Sephora VIB Sale Haul | November 2015

Shopping! Shopping! Shopping! I can't resist a good sale and there are quite a few going on -- including Sephora's VIB sale that took place a few weeks ago. I had a few gift cards (thanks to my sister and hubbie) burning a hole in my pocket and I couldn't resist spending them any longer. After all, it's not real spending if you use a gift card, right? RIGHT!

Here are all the goodies I picked up for 20% off. Just a few ideas for you to consider as you write out your holiday wishlist or think of stuff to get the beauty lover on your "nice" list.

Kat Von D Lolita Lip Duo Gift Set ($20) | Kat Von D Ink Liner Trio Gift Set ($25 -- stated wrong price in video) | Skin Inc Get Glowin' Brightening Mask ($65) | Tony Moly Pocket Bunny Sleek Mist ($15) | Belif Hydra Sebum Control Essence ($42) | LaVanilla Vanilla Grapefruit Fragrance ($19) | Maison Martin Margiela Replica Roller Ball Duo Gift Set ($40)

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.”

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!

Breakups to Makeup Launches at Sephora Today

I'm super excited to share with you a new beauty launch at Sephora. Breakups to Makeup, an accessories brand known for its quirky cosmetics-related slogans (and an always popular booth at The Makeup Show), has partnered with SEPHORA COLLECTION to make its cheeky accessories more easily accessible to fans and beauty and fashion aficionados nationwide. Starting today, you'll be able to purchase three of the brands awesome makeup clutches on Sephora.com and Sephora stores across the US and Canada. 

Two of Breakups to Makeup's signature clutches will be included in the launch. Perhaps you're familiar with them. The signature makeup clutches include the phrases: "Losing you would hurt, but losing my makeup bag would be a tragedy" and (my personal favorite) "I would cry, but my mascara is designer". 

The third clutch is a SEPHORA COLLECTION exclusive and reads, "Life is short, wear more makeup". 

The clutches will retail for $24, are screen printed, made of durable canvas material and spacious (8.5" x 8.5"). Use them to store your makeup for travel or carry it as a clutch and show it off (they're so cute, you'll definitely want to). 

I'm going to need to get my hands on the mascara one and am excited to see if the partnership with Sephora will lead to future collections. Do you have a favorite? 

  

Congratulations to Angelique Velez, Breakups to Makeup founder, on this amazing accomplishment. We wish you the best and if you're in need of someone to help you come up with cheeky slogans, I'm here for ya. 

Sephora & ULTA Haul with Special Guest

I did a little shopping with my friend Eugenia from the blog Geniabeme recently and we documented our haul for posterity sake (it's the first haul of the year after all!). I had so much fun shopping and filming with her. It's so much less awkward than sitting around at my house talking into a camera in an empty room. I love having someone to interact with!

Check out our beauty shopping shenanigans in our videos below. I'm definitely thinking of bringing her back for future videos, so comment below and let us know what you'd like to see! And don't forget to visit Eugenia's YouTube channel and show it some love.

Haul: Beauty Shopping at Sephora, ULTA & Target

Oh boy, I've been on hiatus for too long. While I may not have been writing about beauty, there were still beauty shenanigans going on over here at Girly Things headquarters (a.k.a. my condo). I've got so much to catch up on and reviews to get to writing. In the meantime, check out the assault I laid out on my wallet -- because, and I quote, "Ooooh! Fun. I need this."

Items purchased:
Sephora Airbrush Foundation (light - for now...)
Sephora Microsmooth Foundation Powder (Nude)
Urban Decay Naked Skin Foundation (3.5)
Bite Beauty High Pigment Pencil (Bouquet)
Vita Liberta Phenomenal 2-3 Week Tan Mousse (Medium)
Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15 (Sugar)
Bliss Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Mask
Benefit Bo'oing Concealer (Light/Medium #2)
Eco Tool Face & Body Bronzing Brush
Smashbox Photofinish Primer (Original)
St. Tropez Bronzing Mousse (8 oz)
Nivea Sun-Kissed Radiance gradual tanning lotion (Medium/Dark)
Eclos Cleansing Oil
Stila Stay All Day Waterproof felt-tip liner (Black)
Redken Pillow Proof Blow Dry express primer
Bare Minerals The First Resort trio
Garnier BB Cream Combination/Oily Skin (Medium/Deep) -- yes it's too dark for me, I got it to mix with the Light/Medium shade
L'Oreal Sublime Bronze Tinted Tan Mousse (Medium)
NYX Wonder Pencil (Medium)
Maybelline Color Whispers (Rose of Attraction, Pinup Peach)
Cover Girl True Magic Balm
Maybelline Dream Powder (Creamy Beige #25)

Video music: "Crazy Glue" by John Woodward (Creative Commons Attribution License)

Best of Sephora Collection Products

Waterproof Jumbo Pencil | Airbrush Foundation | Cleansing Oil | Waterproof Eyeliner | Eyebrow Brush | Baked Foundation Powder 

I feel like Sephora Collection products don't get the credit they deserve. There are some fantastic products available to us that are a bit less costly and often just as good as the higher-end brands they've set out to replicate.

These are just some of my favorites - and ones I've gone out and repurchased.

Sephora Collection Perfection Mist Airbrush Foundation 

I love this stuff. It's amazingly light weight and feels like you have nothing on. It's easy to work with and withstands some fierce humidity. Not to mention you get a beautiful satin finish that makes your skin look like porcelain, while still actually looking like skin. I haven't even run out of my first bottle and already purchased a back up. I don't want to be without it. 

Application tip: Spray onto a makeup sponge or brush and stipple on to skin for better control over product placement (spraying it on tends to get it everywhere, including your hair). Plus, this helps you make the bottle last much longer. 

Sephora Supreme Cleansing Oil

I've reviewed this product already and am still totally head over heels. It was the first cleansing oil I discovered that cost less than $25 and worked just as well. Check out my review here. 

Sephora Collection Microsmooth Foundation Powder

If you like MAC MSF powders, do yourself  (and your wallet) a favor and check this product out. I'm on my forth one. I can't get enough of the beautiful finish that looks and feels great on my skin. Love this especially for warmer months when I don't want to pack on too much liquid foundation. 

Sephora Collection Classic Brow Filler Brush (#100)

This was the first brow brush I ever purchased and I've never looked back. The bristles are stiff enough to define and have just enough give to blend. No other angled brush I've used on my brows has compared. I keep reaching for this one instead. 

Sephora Collection Eye Pencil 12hr Wear Waterproof

Formerly known as their flashy liners, these rival my UD 24/7 pencils and cost less. They're super creamy, glide on easily, and stay put. Why not give them a try for yourself? 

Sephora Collection Jumbo Liner 12hr Wear Waterproof

If you wanna save a little dough and you're eyeing those awesome Make Up For Ever Aqua Shadow pencils, saunter on over to the Sephora section and check out this line. There are a few colors that are exact dupes for the MUFE versions. They're creamier too, so they glide on easier and have awesome staying power.  My favorite is Taupe. Check out my review here. 

Do you see any of your favorites on the list?  Tell me more, they might just appear in future best-of posts.

Review: Sephora Supreme Cleansing Oil

I am a cleansing oil nut. I've been addicted to them for the past 3 years and I fear there is no turning back. Aw, hell. I don't fear it, I know it. There's no way I could go back to my old ways. At least, not for long. 

I've waxed poetic about how much I love these products before. But I don't think you guys truly understand the nature of this obsession. At the exact moment I type this post, there are two more bottles of cleansing oil in my beauty pantry just waiting, on deck, for when I run out of the current one. I am never without cleansing oil. It's that serious, you guys. I'll never tire of testing new ones out. The struggle is real. 

If you're not familiar with cleansing oil, let's go through a quick refresher. They are an extremely efficient and gentle way to cleanse makeup off your skin without stripping it off essential moisture, tugging on your precious skin, or making you suffer from oiliness. In other words, they're a miracle. And almost all the ones I've encountered are good for all skin types. I'm looking at you oily-skinned folks. Yes you can use it. In fact, you may even find it helps reduce your oiliness (even if a little because it's not stripping your skin).

Anyway, my adventures in cleansing oil testing led me to Sephora's Supreme Cleansing Oil. I was super excited to stumble on this one because it was the first oil I came across that cost less than $20 (I discovered this one before Garnier released their drugstore cleansing oil). In case you didn't know, the $15 price point (for 6.4 fl. oz.) is a big deal. Most cleansing oils will easily cost you $25 and up. So, saving $10, was pretty exciting.

Here's what Sephora says about their product on their site:

What it is:A gentle makeup remover suitable for all skin types. 
What it is formulated to do:Remove every trace of even the most resistant makeup with this soap-free formula. There’s no need for cotton pads—simply pump into the hands and rub onto dry skin. Add water to change the oil into smooth lotion. Effective yet gentle, this cleansing oil is suitable for sensitive skin and leaves the face soft and perfectly cleansed, without an oily film. 
What it is formulated WITHOUT:- Parabens- Sulfates - Synthetic Dyes - Phthalates- GMOs- Triclosan 
What else you need to know:This cleansing oil has been dermatologically and ophthalmogically tested.

Seems promising enough, right? Let's see how everything measures up.

Packaging:

I love that this is packaged in a pump container. It makes it much easier to dispense product without spilling or over pouring (which can be messy on your countertops when it comes to oil). Just be sure you pump this into the palms of your hand (not your finger tips) because it's not a thick oil. It will easily drip off your fingers tips and then you have to clean up the countertop.

Pump-top containers are my favorite packaging for cleansing oils. This was an easy selling point for me at the store.

Performance and consistency

Sephora Supreme Cleansing Oil has a bit of a watery texture. For reference, it's about the same consistency as MAC's and Philosophy's cleansing oils. If this is your first cleansing oil, it's thinner than olive oil. It spreads evenly and easily on your skin and doesn't feel heavy or thick. One to two pumps of product is enough to remove a full face of makeup. 

Make sure you apply it to dry skin, using dry hands or it will emulsify before you even start to use it. If you've never used a cleansing oil, this takes some getting used to. But you get the hang of it quickly. 

From my experience, Sephora's cleansing oil is on par with its higher end competitors. It removes makeup easily without tugging or pulling. It will easily take on waterproof makeup and melt it away like it's nothing. I used it to easily remove waterproof liner and waterproof airbrush foundation and there was no struggle whatsoever. If you wear heavy eye makeup, you'll need to pay particular attention to your eye area during removal (as you would with any cleansing oil or other makeup removal process). Gently massage the oil over your lids and rub your lashes between your fingertips. It will all come off with surprising ease. 

Once you're done massaging it into your skin, simply add water. It will turn a milky consistency, and rinse cleanly away. This cleansing oil rinsed off easily and left no residue behind. My skin felt clean without feeling tight or stripped and felt ready for my moisturizer and remaining routine. 

If you so choose, you can follow up with your regular cleanser. I usually feel comfortable enough skipping it and going directly into the rest of my skincare routine.

Note: I use cleansing oils for makeup removal. If I am not wearing makeup, then I use a regular cleanser to wash my face at night. 

I did no experience any breakouts when using this cleanser. 

Cost and availability

I've already mentioned this retails for $15. It's at least $10 less than most brand name cleansing oils out there. But it's more expensive than Garnier's drugstore version. It has 6.4 fl. oz. of product in it, which is more than what you get from the drugstore. But the primary selling point for the price is that it's good for all skin types (while Garnier's is geared specifically for those with dry skin -- it leaves moisturizing residue behind). 

It's easily accessible at Sephora stores and online. But if you see it, pick it up, because I do notice it's often sold out online. 

Fragrance

It has a subtle fresh scent to it that made me think of a mix of freshly cut grass and citrus blossoms. It's not strong or perfume like, but it is scented. I personally find the fragrance pleasant. 

Ingredients

Here's the list of ingredients available on Sephora's website. I know some of you out there try to avoid mineral oil. If that's your inclination, then you've been duly informed: This product contains mineral oil. If you prefer to go mineral oil free, check out Philosophy Purity cleansing oil as an alternative ($25). 

-Cottonseed Oil: Softens. -Vitamin E: Antioxidant and moisturizing action. Improves skin radiance and tissue tone. -Vitamin A: Antioxidant. 
Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil), PEG-6 Sostearate, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Crambe Abyssinica Seed Oil, Gossypium Herbaceum (Cotton) Seed Oil, Fragrance, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Retinyl Palmitate, Tocopherol, BHT.

Overall thoughts

If you're looking to save a little money on cleaning oils, Sephora has developed a heavy-hitting contender with its Supreme Cleansing Oil. Its performance is on par with higher end competitors at a more affordable price point. I'd easily repurchase it and enthusiastically recommend it to my cleansing-oil-loving (and curious) friends. It's worth the switch. You won't be disappointed. 

Are you a cleansing oil fanatic? Have you tried Sephora's version? Did you like it as much as I did? Tell me all your thoughts. Let's chit chat about it. 

Haul: Sephora + Bath & Body Works

Well, I couldn't resist doing a little shopping recently. And since sharing is caring, I'm telling you all about it.

What are some of your favorite candle scents from Bath & Body Works? I'm so obsessed with them. I know I'm not the only one. Dish!

Holiday Gift Guide 2013: Beauty Gifts Under $50

Each year we face a conundrum. What do we get the beauty loving friends and family members on our list? You want to give them something cool and thoughtful (preferably something they don't already have) but you also might not want to break the bank.

Well, fear not. It's quite possible to give your beauty fanatics some awesome gifts at reasonable pricing. Let's take a moment to thank the beauty industry for putting together some awesome gift sets that will help you do just that.

If you're looking for gifts that will cost you less than $50 (sorry Urban Decay lovers that new Naked 3 palette missed the list by $3), you're in luck. There are a lot of options.

I've assembled a list of some of my top picks that range from makeup and skin care, to nails and fragrance. There's something for everyone's beauty-related preferences.

Makeup sets: LORAC Rockin' Red Hot PRO Set ($39) / LORAC Close Up PRO Face Tutorial ($42) / Stila Masterpiece Series Eye & Cheek Palettes ($39) / Skincare sets: Fresh Sugar & Seaberry Sanctuary ($48) / Korres Radiance Revealed Wild Rose Brightening Duo ($48) /Boscia Mask Medley ($38)/ Fragrance set: Nest Luxury Hand Cream gift set ($38)/ Nail set: Sephora Collection Makeup Academy Nails ($36) 

Makeup sets

Listen, there are a lot of makeup sets out there ringing in at less than $50. I can't possibly list them all. This list is clearly not exhaustive. I chose the three makeup sets listed because they offer quality and value. It was difficult to narrow it down to these three. But I didn't want a gift guide that only had eyeshadow palettes in it. We gotta think of everyone else. It's the holidays after all. That being said, if you want a gift guide that's my favorite palettes, say the word. A post of this nature could easily be arranged. 

For now, I want to draw your attention to the three palettes I've picked out that are actually quite affordable and offer you amazing value:

LORAC Rockin' Red Hot Pro Set - I have a lot to say about this set. I'll try to keep it short and sweet. First, you get the LORAC Pro Palette - a huge fan favorite - for less than buying the palette on its own. Yes, that is right. You save $3 and  you get extra stuff. I had to do a double take when I got it. Second,  you also get a travel-sized eyeshadow primer and a full-sized pro liquid liner (which has out shined all my other liquid liners) for only $39. Third, many people have said they like this neutral palette more than the infamous Naked palettes (not referring to Naked 3) because you get equal parts shimmer and matte shades. Four, the quality is ah-ma-zing. The shades are pigmented, buttery smooth, and blend easily. The eyeshadow primer works just as well as its competitors. And that liquid liner is perfection. It's an easy to apply pen liner that glides on so smoothly it doesn't tug on your lids at all. It's cut the time it takes me to apply liquid liner in half and it always comes out looking perfect. I'm in love. Available exclusively at ULTA. Good for the beauty lover on your list who loves his/her Naked palettes and neutral shades. Expand their horizons. 

LORAC Close Up PRO Face Tutorial - This gift set is on my personal holiday wish list. You get an eyeshadow trio with three neutral, look-good-on-everyone shades that will take you from day to night easy peasy (a vanilla-esque shade, a light latte brown, and a dark chocolate brown), a travel-sized mattifying primer, PRO mascara, rosy cheek stain, and peach lip lustre. This set could easily become your every day go-to products. It also includes makeup tips to help you apply your face like a pro. Available exclusively at ULTA. Good for any makeup person on your list because the colors will flatter all skin tones and can be worn for any occasion. From novice to expert, this one is fool proof. 

Stila Masterpiece Series Eye & Cheek palettes - This set combines three eyeshadow and cheek palettes into one collection. You get a cool toned palette, a warm toned palette, and a rosy palette each with five eye shadows and one coordinating blush. If you don't want to do the math, that's 15 shadows and three blushes. The limited edition set retails for $39. At the time of this posting it was available at ULTA for $29. This gift set is adorable and sure to go over like a hit. Available at Sephora and ULTA. Great for the indecisive beauty person on your list. Three palettes. One set. No need to settle.

Skincare Sets

If you have a skin care fanatic on your list, there are plenty of great gifting options available to you as well. Skin care can be a little trickier than makeup because you need to know a little more about the person you're buying for. Do they have oily/dry/combo/sensitive skin? What are the skin concerns they want to battle? Will giving them a product be a touchy matter? You’ll have to be the judge of that when buying. However, here are three items that I think are innocuous enough to please anyone. Plus, if you're gifting a skincare fanatic, they are likely to recognize and appreciate these.  

Fresh Sugar & Seaberry Sanctuary  - This set will let you give the gift of skincare without worrying about getting all the details right (skin type, concerns, sensitivities). It’s basically like giving a little at-home spa treatment. It includes Fresh's Brown Sugar Body Polish, Seaberry Restorative Body Cream, and Sugar Lip Treatment with SPF 15. It’s a great bath and body experience that’s a bit more grown up and sophisticated than that other store we know and love. Available at Sephora. Good for anyone on your list that enjoys at little at-home pampering and spends a lot of time grooming (and no, we’re not implying they’re vain). 

Boscia Mask Medley -  There are a few beauty gals I know who would flip to receive this Boscia mask medley.  The set contains three of the brands most popular masks, sure to help treat an array of skin situations that ail us all. Plus, you can give it without fearing you’ll cause offense. This set says you know a thing or two about cult favorites and you know they enjoy a little at-home facial time. Way different than giving someone, say, an anti wrinkle cream they didn’t ask for… Yikes! Available at Sephora. Good for the beauty lover who has it all. If there’s a beauty blogger or editor on your list, they’ll likely appreciate this set.

Korres Radiance Revealed Wild Rose Brightening - Korres’ Wild Rose line is immensely popular for a reason. And this set is on this list because it’s one of my personal favorites. This brightening duo offers two full-sized products for the price of one (it's ridiculously popular Wild Rose + Vitamin C Advanced Brightening Sleeping Facial). These days, people of all ages are chasing that illustrious glow. Brightening products have out shined the battle against wrinkles in the quest of youthful, envious skin. The Wild Rose sleeping facial delivers. It's luxurious, smells amazing (um, roses people), contains no yucky parabens or sulfates, and is great for all skin types. And that cleanser? Well it's an added bonus! Admittedly, you'll need to know the person you're gifting this to a little better to offer up this set. But, if they happen to love scouring the beauty isles for all things facial care, they're likely to recognize and appreciate this set. Available at Sephora. Good for anyone chasing after radiant skin

Nails

All of us have that one friend who always has amazing nails. They're groomed to perfection and rock some of the hottest nail trends. Heck, that person may also have a nail polish collection to rival the local nail salon. But trust me, they'll always appreciate more. I know. I'm one of them. I may have a million different shades of pink, purple, mint, or grey, but by golly they are all different!

The Sephora Collection Makeup Academy Nails set is perfect for the nail addict on your list. Not only do they get 10 full-sized nail polish colors, they also get a multi-glitter top coat, a jar of star jewels and a booklet that offers 12 different nail art tutorials. How does that not sound like fun? Available at Sephora. Good for the person on your list who seems to rock a new manicure every week (and maybe sometimes multiple manis per week). 

Fragrance

Alright, fragrance is an incredibly personal experience. I've chosen this set of Nest Luxury Hand Creams because it's a great little gift for the person on your list who has an impressive fragrance collection. You know that friend. The one who smells great, and when you ask what they're wearing, the spout out a name of a fragrance (or brand) you've never even heard of. That's right. They're likely wearing something you can't get at any ol' department store. This set (also available in a mini fragrance set) is perfect because they are well known, but not so common that everyone has them. I like the idea of giving the lotion because it's something you can easily keep in your purse or car without fear of a broken bottle. 

Well, there you have it. Those are my picks this year for holiday beauty gifts. Stay tuned for the next holiday gift guides, which will include my picks for gifts $30 and under and my guide to fun beauty stocking stuffers ($20 or less). 

Comment below and share your thoughts! Happy holidays!

Haul: Sephora VIB Sale & Nordstrom Mascara Madness Event

As you may already know, Sephora hosted its VIB sale on Veterans Day weekend. The sale started on Thursday (11/7/13) and ran through Monday (11/11/13). During the sale VIBs (and a guest) could shop all weekend and get 20% off their entire purchase. You could use the discount voucher multiple times in store and online, which I did (of course).

I had to hit up two Sephora's and their website to get the things that I wanted (even though my haul wasn't even that big) so that little feature is a godsend in my opinion. I had a few generous Sephora gift cards burning a hole in my wallet and it was time to go spend them.

Hooray for minimal out of pocket expenses! (And that is why I hang on to my gift cards people)

That same weekend, Nordstrom (possibly my favorite retailer - Lord help my bank account) was hosting their Mascara Madness event, which took place on Saturday (11/9/13). During Mascara Madness it's buy two get one free mascara all day long. You can mix and match any combination of mascaras and still qualify. Try new ones. Stock up on old ones. Be brand loyal or spread the love. Whatever you want.

My husband remembered that I'd off handedly mentioned this sale (as a Nordstrom card holder he also got an email reminder) and wanting to cheer me up (if you recall, we had a sad incident last weekend), took me mascara shopping. This was definitely a treat. You guys know that I normally stick to drugstore mascara. I get stressed out at the thought of tossing out a half used tube of high-end mascara when the shelf life elapses (that's why I stick to this mascara trick).

But, who am I to turn down such a sweet gesture? Not crazy, that's who. (OK, maybe makeup crazy)

So off we went. Check out my haul video to see all the goodies I bought -- partially because I'd planned to and partially because I was sad and trying to take my mind off things. All items are listed and linked below.

Items purchased:

YSL Volume Effect Faux Cils Mascara in Hight Density Black - $30
YSL Volume Effect Faux Cils Baby Doll Mascara in Fetish Black - $30
Armani Eyes to Kill Mascara in Steel Black - $30 (This was my freebie)

Hourglass Ambient Light palette - $58
This palette includes:
Dim light: A neutral peach beige powder that blurs imperfections and highlights a radiant complexion with the perfect balance of warm and cool tones.
Incandescent light (limited edition): A pearlescent powder that highlights the cheekbones and brightens the complexion with a celestial glow.
Radiant light: A sun-kissed golden beige that enhances the overall complexion with believable, subtle warmth, and also extends a summer glow.
Hourglass Mineral Veil Primer with SPF 15

Clinique Clinical Dark Spot Corrector Serum - $49.50
Sephora Skin Perfect CC Cream in Light - $26
Sephora Supreme Cleansing Oil - $15
Korres Radiance Revealed Wild Rose Brightening Duo - $48 (This is a great deal. The Wild Rose night cream is $48 when you buy it alone. That means you get the facial cleanser for free. It's normally $24. Both items are full size!)

Did you hit up the VIB sale or Mascara Madness event? What did you get? Comment below and let me know!

Sephora Chic Week Haul

Sephora started it's Beauty Insider Chic Week, where they offered its Beauty Insiders a 15% discount on their purchases on April 11 and you can take advantage of savings through Sunday, April 21. The best part is that you can keep using the discount over and over until it expires. So, if you get home and decide you wanted to go back for items you left behind, you can do it. 

I did just that. I went in on the first day, and purchased two items I had been eyeing for a little while and then returned on Monday (pay day) to pick up a few extra things I wanted to get. I used a gift card for large portion of my purchase on Thursday, so I swear I didn't spend as much out of my own pocket as it appears that I did.

For those of you who prefer to shop online, you can use the code CHIC for your purchases through 4/21/13. 

Check out my video to see what I got:

List of items:

Fresh Rose Face Mask ($55)

Bliss That's Incredi-Peel Spa Strength Resurfacing Pads ($49.50)

St. Tropez Bronzing Lotion 8 oz ($42)

Caudalie Divine Oil 0.5 oz ($9)

Wen Healthy Hair Care Kit Sweet Almond ($39.50)

Givenchy Play (my husband's cologne)

I also purchased the Sephora Microsmooth Foundation Powder in Tan (for when I'm using my bronzers). I totally forgot to include that in the video. It was $22. 

Did you buy anything during Chic Week? What did you get? 

Holiday Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffers (under $20)

1. Sephora by OPI Perfect Pair nail polish duos ($10) - These are so adorable and would make a fun surprise in someone's stocking. The duos come in three different complimentary color combinations that would look great if you decided to do nail art or accent nails. My personal favorite is Pink & Choose -- a hot pink and sheer cool light pink. 
2. Tarte Clean Slate Deluxe Primer Trio ($9) - Give the gift of flawless makeup. This trio is a great way to test out these primers or give someone who loves them a portable version. These deluxe travel sizes are great for on the go and provide enough product to give you a solid feel for the product's performance. Available at Sephora and ULTA. 
3. Burt's Bees Tips n' Toes Kit ($12.99) - Most gals love a mani-pedi. Keep your their hands and feet looking great between nail salon visits with this gift set by Burt's Bees. Best of all, it's a pampering kit that you can feel good about because Burt's Bees is a natural brand, which means no sulfates, parabens, phthalates, or petrochemicals. The kit includes: replenishing lip balm with pomegranate oil, lemon butter cuticle cream, hand salve, coconut foot cream, almond milk beeswax hand cream, and thoroughly theraputic honey and grapeseed oil hand cream. Available at drugstores. 
4. AHAVA Hand & Foot Cream Ornament or Body Care Ornament ($10) - I love when they put travel-sized items in ornaments during the holidays. I think its so cute. I'm tempted to decorate my Christmas tree with beauty products, have a party, and then have my friends try to find their specific ornament. That's why I chose these cute ornaments by AHAVA: one has a hand and a foot cream, the other a body lotion and shower gel. They're great little gifts anyone could use. I like to keep a travel-sized lotion in my purse all the time for when my hands are dry. As you can imagine, I'm partial to the hand and foot cream ornament myself. Available at Nordstrom. 
5. Purity Made Simple One-Step Facial Cleanser Ornament ($10) - Well, if I'm going to talk about  my love for beauty products wrapped like ornaments, I'd be remiss if I didn't mention Philosophy's Purity Made Simple face wash. Every year they have the travel-sized version available in this little packaging. Every year, I love it. Why not give the gift of good skin? Don't let the size fool you. You can easily get quite a few washes from this bottle. I had one in my shower for a month before I went through it. This cleanser is great for all skin types. It cleanses and tones and makes your skin feel super soft. Available at Nordstrom and ULTA. 
6. Lush Lip Scrubs ($9.95) - These little sugar  lip scrubs are great and they taste pretty darn good too (don't worry it's ok to lick them they're natural). This is great for the lipstick lover on your list because she needs to make sure her lips are always in prime condition. Lipstick looks awful on flaky lips! All she's gotta do is lick her lips, rub a little lip scrub on and lick if off if she pleases. I'm partial to the Mint Julips flavor, it tastes a bit like mint chocolate chip ice cream, and it's refreshing. Plus, if I use it after lunch, it's a little like an after-dinner mint. Sweet lips is another good one too. 
7. Fresh Hesperides Grapefruit Rollerball Ornament ($19) - Here I go again with the ornament gifts. But honestly, they are just too cute! I recently discovered this scent last week on a trip to Sephora and I love it. It's fresh and crisp with a hint of warmth (thanks to the musk note). If you happen to have someone on your list who loves LaVanila Vanilla Grapefruit, they'll probably also love this scent by Fresh. Notes: mandarin (if we haven't figure this out I'm a sucker for orange/citrus scents), Italian lemon, grapefruit, bergamot, lotus flower, transparent jasmine, rhubarb, musk, and peach. By the way, if this particular pick doesn't suit your fancy, any roller ball perfume (of your giftee's preference) could substitute. They make great gifts. I love keeping a small perfume in my purse for when the occasion calls. You can find a wide selection at any beauty or department store. Fresh Hesperides Grapefruit is available at Sephora. 
8. eos Smooth Lip Balm Sphere Holiday Gift Set ($9) - I love eos lip balms. I've written about them here. The shape makes them quite cute, attracts people's attention, and is usually easy to find in your purse (although not so great for a little clutch). They're also 95% organic, and glide on smoothly thanks to moisturizing shea butter and jojoba oil. Plus, no parabens, sulfates, phthalates, or petrochemicals. These three flavors aren't available outside of this gift set and include: blueberry, watermelon, and vanilla. It's a fun little stocking stuffer you can easily find at drugstores. I've personally spotted them at Target and Walgreens. 

Are any of these products on your wish list? Are there any products out there you think should make the list? 

Holiday Gift Guide: Beauty Gifts Under $150

We've talked about some of my favorite picks for holiday beauty gifts under $50. Now it's time to talk about some of my favorite beauty gifts that will require a little more of your budget. But, I'm assuming, if you're looking at this list, you have the budget allotted for these items and you're probably shopping for someone on your list with whom you have a closer relationship. That's usually how the bigger budget gifts work, right?

But don't worry, I didn't go all crazy. Most of these gifts are still quite reasonably priced.

1. Best of Hourglass set ($59) - I think this is a great gift for the sophisticated beauty gal in your life. Hourglass cosmetics aren't as readily available as other brands. You can't just walk into any department store and get them. But don't fret, you can find them at Sephora (or Barney's if you choose). Giving these as a gift is sure to impress. They're a little more obscure, but rank up there with is competing high-end brands. This set features two of the brands best-selling primers -- mineral primer and No. 28 primer (which has 28 hydrating ingredients) -- along with the Film Noir mascara and a pretty lip gloss (all best sellers). 
2. Clarisonic Mia 2 ($149) - No list would be complete if it didn't include a Clarisonic. These cleansing brushes are magical. They deep clean while gently exfoliating leaving you with softer, healthier looking skin. And, let's be frank, good skin is what we're all looking for. The better our skin, the less makeup we need to pile on. I have the regular Clarisonic Mia and I love it. But they've since released the Mia 2, which offers two speed settings for extra cleanliness. I love this peacock colored one, but you can choose from a variety of colors and patterns these days. Available at Sephora, ULTA, and Nordstrom. 
3. Burberry "Lip Cover" Soft Satin Lipstick Set ($72) - You're giving a little bit of luxury when you gift this set. From the box they're packaged in (the cardboard feels like fancy stationary), to the velvety smooth quality of these lipsticks, to the sophisticated packaging (with it's iconic print also embossed on the lipsticks themselves), these just ooze luxe. Plus the three colors are absolutely gorgeous and totally wearable. Available at Nordstrom. 

1. Urban Decay Naked 2 ($50) - You can't compile a gift list without at least one of the Urban Decay Naked palettes. Well, I guess you could, but honestly, this is a fail safe beauty gift. Lots of neutral shades that are wearable for any occasion. Wear it soft and subtle to the office or dark and dramatic for a night out. The collection of neutral shades are good for just about anyone. Of the two palettes, the Naked 2 is my favorite. It comes with 12 shadows, a dual ended Good Karma shadow brush, and a mini lip gloss. I love that I have a matte black and I just gravitate to the colors in this palette more than I do to the original palette (which I also love, by the way). I just wish it had a better balance of matte and shimmer shades. However, Urban Decay heard everyone's pleas for more matte neutral shades and released the Naked Basics palette this holiday season (retails for $27). It's a smaller palette, containing only six shadows, but they are all matte. The Naked 2 palette is available at Sephora and ULTA. Naked Basics is currently available on Urban Decay's website. 
2. Tom Ford Eye Color Quad in Burnished Amber ($75) - Beauty aficionados went crazy over Tom Ford's  eye color quads this fall. Twitter and the blogosphere was abuzz, and with good reason. These palettes are absolutely beautiful. The shadows feel soft and smooth, the color payoff is fantastic, and they blend nicely. I'm personally drawn to the Burnished Amber quad. The colors are warm, rich, and versatile. Plus, amber is an incredibly flattering eye shadow on pretty much all skin tones. Give this and you'll be a hero. Available at Neiman Marcus, selected Saks Fifth Avenue stores, and Bergdorf Goodman. 

I love that holiday season means you can get your hands on some great fragrance deals. I know selecting a perfume for someone is a very personal matter. What smells great to some, can be offensive to others. But, since we're talking a little bit of a higher price point, I'm going to assume the person you're shopping for is someone you know pretty well. So, you should be better equipped to discern their scent preferences and decide if they are in line with mine.

1. LaVanila Vanilla Grapefruit Eau de Parfum ($58) - Of course the first fragrance I list isn't available in a gift set. But, I chose it for two reasons. First, I adore this scent. It's fresh and uplifting thanks to the citrus scent of grapefruit, and still warm and sweet thanks to the vanilla.  You almost smell like an amazing dessert. This is more of a fun perfume than a sultry, romantic scent. I love this for spring and summer, but I'll wear it year round. Second, it has quite a following and is the best selling of all the LaVanila scents. If this many people like it, can you really go wrong? Available at Sephora.
2. Elie Saab Eau de Parfum set  ($120) - Oh my goodness. I adore this perfume. Adore it. I first spritzed it on a ribbon at Nordstrom and tied that ribbon to my purse. I could smell the perfume for weeks and I was hooked. I wouldn't stop talking about it until my husband kindly gifted it to me. He was superman that day. This perfume is sophisticated, refined, and feminine. I personally feel you can wear it day or night. It's a bit strong, but not overpowering. The fragrance notes include: orange blossom, jasmine, patchouli, rose, and cedar wood. I get a lot of compliments when I wear this scent. The set includes a 3 oz bottle of eau de parfum, a mini spray bottle (0.33 oz), and a body cream (1 oz). The 3 oz bottle alone costs $120, so you're essentially getting the travel sized mini perfume and body cream for free. Available at Nordstrom.
3. Laura Mercier  Le Petit Patisserie Almond Coconut Milk Quartet ($50) - If you want to be transported to a tropical island escape without having to travel to far off places, give this gift set a whirl. The warm and succulent scent of almond, coconut, milk, and vanilla are rich and seductive. It simply smells divine. The set includes a body wash, soufle body creme, and deluxe travel-sized hand cream and fragrance mist. Available at Nordstrom.
4. Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb Rollerball Set ($58) - Flowerbomb is just that, a floral explosion with a bit of sweetness. But it's not candy or sugar sweet. It's more of a sultry sweet floral scent. I love this scent so much, I gifted it to myself last year. It's great because you get three rollerball vials (0.34 oz each) for a fair price. It's more affordable than the full bottle of the perfume, which retails for $105 (for the 1.7 oz; $160 for the 3.4 oz). And those little vials will last you. If you're like me, and you prefer your perfumes in a spray, spend an extra $5 for a small atomizer. I pour the perfume in the atomizer instead of using the rollerball, and carry it in my purse. Scent notes include: bergamot, tea, jasmine, orange blossom (I sense a recurring citrus theme in my fragrance choices), orchid, rose, and patchouli. The trio set is available exclusively at Nordstrom.

Holiday Gift Guide: Beauty Gifts under $50

I love holiday time in the beauty industry because of all the great gift sets. It's a great time to get a lot of bang for your buck, try out new products without spending a fortune, and get some stand-by items in pretty sparkling packaging.

In my last post, I showed you some of my picks for gifts specifically at Sephora. This time, I extended my search to other stores for the beauty obsessed on your list.

Gifts under $25

1. Real Techniques brushes ($6-18) - If you've got a beauty lover on your list, chances are, she loves a great makeup brush. Makeup brush quality and prices can range wildly, but you can find some great brushes at great prices. Real Techniques brushes are fantastic and they're available at fair prices. Individual brushes range from $6-10 and brush sets are $18. The brushes are sturdy, have synthetic, soft, taklon bristles, and are cruelty free. Order them online or get them at your local ULTA, they are bound to please.
2. Sonia Kashuk All Out Glam brush set ($24.99) - Check out the sparkles on this gorgeous brush set. It's so festive and perfect for the holidays. Who wouldn't feel like a million bucks when getting glammed up with these makeup brushes? Sonia Kashuk makes great brushes and the best part is their easily accessible at your local Target. 
3. Sonia Kashuk Limited Edition Formal Affair face palette ($19.99) - A compact palette that flatters most skin tones is great for on the go. It has a pretty shimmery bronzer, matte pink blush, shimmery coral blush, and four metallic, yet neutral, eyeshadows. Great for the holidays and to use year round. 

Gifts under $50

1. Stila Seeing Stars Smudge Stick waterproof eye liner set ($32) - I purchased this eye liner set for myself at the Makeup Show in Orlando and I love it. Five, long-wearing metallic shades in very wearable colors. Fun to wear and not too in-your-face, for those out there who are color shy. Available at Sephora and ULTA. 
2. Korres Butter Me Up body & lip butter collection ($38) - If you have any natural beauty fans on your list, consider giving the gift of moisture with this Korres gift set that includes three super smooth lip butters (guava, jasmine, quince) and four luxuriously creamy body butters (guava, jasmine, basil lemon, and apple blossom). What it doesn't include: parabens, sulfates, and phthalates. Pick it up at your nearest Sephora.
3. Stila Luxe Eyeshadow Palette ($45) - Another palette I purchased at the Makeup Show and absolutely love. It includes nine eyeshadows in neutral, smokey, and bright colors and has a nice mix of matte and shimmer shadows, as well as a smudge stick eye liner in lady killer (a pewter/purple metallic). The shadows are soft, pigmented and easy to blend and has a lot of great go-to every day colors. Available at Nordstrom. 
4. BareMinerals The Star Treatment set ($40) - If you've got a mineral makeup lover on your list (like I do) check out some of the great gift sets BareMinerals has this season. There were too many to include them all, so I chose my personal favorite of their products, their pressed shadows. This particular palette is limited edition for the holidays and it has some gorgeous colors in it. Ten gorgeous shadows to be exact, an eyeshadow brush, and an eyeshadow primer.  You're getting quite the deal, since normally the two-shadow palettes run for $20 and here you're getting five times as many shadows. Available at Sephora. (If you'd like a separate post on all my BareMinerals gift set favorites, just leave me a comment below.)
5. Sephora Favorites Glitz and Glam Party Sampler ($45) - If you have an ultra-glam gal to gift, consider this gift set from Sephora that includes nine of their best-selling products that give you that holiday glow. Three of those products are full-sized items. Give your glam puss a full look and the chance to sample some new goodies. 
6. Lorac Eye Candy Eye Pencil set ($28) - This eye liner set is just functional, it's gorgeous to look at. I'm gushing over it! The golden packaging with rhinestone accents is positively luxe. But it's not just pretty on the outside, it's functional too. The set includes four wearable eye liners in coal (slate grey), licorice (black), cocoa (brown), and plum. Available at ULTA.
7. Lorac Pro palette ($42) - If you know someone who owns and loves the Urban Decay Naked palettes (either of them), surprise them with the new Lorac Pro palette. It's a great neutral palette to add to their arsenal, with 16 gorgeous shadows that are generously pigmented and easy to blend. Use shadows wet or dry to line, define, shadow - creating office friendly and all out glam looks with the same palette. Available at ULTA and Sephora. 
8. MAC Guilty Passion 4 pigment gift sets ($32.50) - Pigments are so much fun! Use them as shadows, apply them on your lips, or mix them into polish -- they're truly versatile. MAC released three new sets of mini pigments this holiday season, but don't let the term "mini" fool you. These are generous minis, with 3g each they'll last you quite a long time. Ask anyone who's ever owned a MAC pigment. They are seemingly endless. My two favorites are the Sweetly Smokey and Tenderly Warm sets. I think Tenderly Warm will give you a great glow the likes you might see in on the pages of Victoria's Secret. Secretly Smokey has some great shades in purple, berry, frosty pink and shimmery taupe. 
9. OCC Lip Tar gift set ($49) - The lip junkie on your list will go nuts over this collection. Five favorite Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics lip tars they can mix and match to create their own unique shade or wear straight out of the tube. The possibilities are endless and the price is right. The tubes of liquid lipstick might look small, but they'll only need a pea-sized (that may even be too much) amount to pretty their pout. Check out my post where I swatch my OCC lip tars here. You can purchase this set from Sephora. 

What are some of your favorite beauty gift sets this year? Are you buying for yourself or to give to others? 

Holiday Gift Guide: Sephora Gift Sets, $30 and under

The holiday season is around the corner and many of us are thinking about what kind of lovely gifts we can give our loved ones to show them a little appreciation. If you have a beauty fanatic on your list this is a great gifting time since so many companies put out great gift sets this time of year.

After perusing Sephora's site, here are my picks for gift set ideas that won't break the bank. All of these can be purchased for $30 or less.

1. Sephora Collection Flashy Eyeliner Set ($16) - I got this set a few years ago and I loved it. Sephora's Flashy eyeliners are fantastic. They're creamy, smudgeable, and waterproof. Once they set, they last all day. They're comparable to the Urban Decay 24/7 liners, at a fraction of the cost. The set includes five travle-sized liners, letting you explore some new fun colors while still providing the neutral stand-bys. Colors included: black, brown, blue, violet, and grey.
2. Stila All is Bright Lip Glaze set ($25) - People who try them, tend to love them. That's why Stila's lip glaze set makes my picks for great gifts under $30, they are bound to please the makeup lover on your list. Stila lip glazes are creamy, colorful, pack high-shine, aren't overly sticky, and smell delicious. This set includes eight lip glazes -- six limited edition shades, and two best-sellers. 
3. Bite Beauty Bite-Size Discovery Set ($25) - This lip set has been teasing me for a few months. I've been wanting it, but haven't gotten it. I may just have an excuse to indulge. The set is portable, a great way to test out a new brand, and includes five shades that great for everyone. I'm totally loving the red one. And the packaging looks sleek and sophisticated, like it belongs to a lady who means business.  Keep these in your purse and always have a shade on hand that compliments your looks - from subtle nudes to a bold red. Great for lipstick lovers of any variety. 
4. Sephora Collection IZAK Mini Lipstick Set ($14) - This lipstick set is fun. Just look at the cute packaging! It's sure to please the beauty gal on your list. And it includes colors that are sure to please. I'm a big fan of Sephora's line of makeup, and I think this is a great way to play with some of their lipsticks. 
5. Clinique Taste of Honey Set ($29.50) - Clinique Black Honey Almost Lipstick is a cult favorite for a reason. The shade flatters everyone. That super dark lipstick only looks scary, because when you put it on it's more of a pretty sheer raspberry than the gothic dark hue it appears to be. Check it out on me here. The rest of the honey line is just as nice. In fact, I chose a hue for each one of my bridesmaids as part of their bridal party gift. 
6. Sephora Collection Gloss Lab ($25) - Noticing a lip product trend? Yes, well, there seem to be some good lip gifts out there in this price range. Can you blame me for choosing them? This set includes 10 glosses: seven color shades and three top coats (clear shine, glitter, and shimmer). 
7. Sephora by OPI Tinsel Town four piece set ($19.50) - I love the mini nail polish bottles. They are so cute and their portability makes them great for carrying around to fix minor chips. And seriously, when was the last time to actually went through an entire full-sized bottle of nail polish (unless you're a nail tech, and not counting base and top coats)? These colors are fantastic. 
8. Sephora Collection Moonshadow Palette - In the Night ($30) - I love a good eyeshadow palette, and the colors in this one are captivating. A collection of shimmery baked shadows that's great for smokey, neutral, and even some bold looks. Use it wet for bolder color intensity or to use the shadows as liner. The navy blue shade looks absolutely stunning and the packaging looks sleek. Plus, you're getting a good quality product. 

Product Review: Sephora Triple Action Cleansing Water

Sephora Triple Action Cleansing Water 5 oz. - $12

I recently purchased my first Sephora brand skin care product, after I ran out of my Clinique toner. I was perusing Sephora looking for the OCC lip tars, when I stumbled upon the triple action cleansing water. I was intrigued. I wasn't sure what it was. Was it a makeup remover? Was it toner? What were it's triple powers? 

I asked one of the employees, and she basically said you could use it as a toner and a makeup remover. Needing a new toner, I picked it up. Then I went home and read about it. Here's what Sephora has to say about this product:

What it is:A no-rinse cleanser with a texture ideal for delicate skin.
What it is formulated to do:This product cleanses the face and eyes effectively in one simple step. Dispensed from a bottle with a clever pump design, its soap-free formula features cleansing spheres that effectively capture and eliminate impurities and makeup. It also includes HydroSenn+, a natural ingredient proven to deliver immediate and long-lasting hydration more effectively than hyaluronic acid.
What it is formulated WITHOUT:- Parabens- Sulfates - Synthetic Dyes - Phthalates- GMOs- Triclosan
What else you need to know:HydroSenn+ is a plant-derived ingredient that leaves skin feeling soft and luxuriously comfortable. This product is dermatologically- and ophthalmologically-tested. Suitable for sensitive skin, sensitive eyes, and contact lens wearers.

Alright, now that we know the claims. Let me tell you my experience. First things first, I love using this as a toner after I wash my face. It's definitely gentle and non-drying. And it smells fresh and clean. But don't worry, it's not at all overpowering or perfume like. The cleansing water does, in fact, feel gentle and refreshing on my skin without sucking out moisture after I wash my face.

I also love that you can use it even on your eyes. It's a great double duty product. I like using it to remove eye makeup. I typically use it after I wash my face to remove any left over mascara. I think that's a true testament to how gentle this is. I've had not problems swiping a dampened cotton round across my lids. No stinging. No tingling. Nothing. I have also used the exfoliating side of my cotton round dampened with the cleansing water to remove lip products that stain my lips and swiped it off without a problem.

As for using it as a makeup remover all on its own, it's a bit of a double edged sword. Yes, it works. It removes your makeup. But it seems to me that you're better off just using a makeup wipe. You'll use up a lot of product to try to remove all your makeup this way and a lot of cotton swabs (unless you buy the large cotton swabs - then you'll just use a lot of product dampening it enough to get your whole face). I went through six regular-sized flat cotton pads to get my makeup off. It does get your makeup off. If you're feeling lazy, it's much better than skipping your makeup removal.  But, I felt it was much more efficient and just as effective to use one makeup remover wipe, which has more surface area to get all my face anyway. Heck, if I'm feeling that lazy, the makeup wipe is already pre-moistened for me.

But here's the deal. While I got my makeup off, my face still felt sticky or filmy. There's just nothing quite like washing your makeup off (at I haven't found it). I still prefer my cleaning oil as my makeup removing method. A few minutes after I used the cleansing water as my makeup remover, I caved, and washed my face (using my regular cleanser). I was pleasantly surprised to find that most of my makeup had come off. Only the tiniest bit was left for my cleanser to tackle, similarly to when I use a remover wipe.

All in all, I'd definitely keep using this product as a toner and to remove eye makeup before or after thorough cleansing. It's gentle and hydrating, the price is fair, and I like the scent. I'm content and satisfied with my first Sephora skin care product.

Have you tried anything else from Sephora's skin care line? Do you have any recommendations? Will you be trying the cleansing water?