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

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*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!

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*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.”

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Concealer | Dupe Alert | New at the Drugstore

This post contains affiliate and referral links.

I wasn't kidding when I said that good things are coming to a beauty department near you. That seems to be especially true for the drugstore lately. Turns out, Neutrogena wasn't about to be left out of the new product release action. 

While perusing the aisles at ULTA, I stumbled on their new Hydro Boost Hydrating Concealer ($12.99, 0.12 oz). I was immediately struck by how similar it was to a certain high end concealer stick. See if you  can guess which one just from looking at the picture below. 

If you didn't scroll down to see the next picture and guessed Benefit Fake Up concealer ($24. 0.12 oz), then we're on the same wavelength. So you know I had to take it home with me and put it to the test. 

But before we check out how the two compare. Let's read a little bit about what Neutrogena's Hydro Boost concealer claims (from Neutrogena's site): 

Neutrogena® Hydro Boost Hydrating Concealer applies flawlessly to help mask imperfections. The non-greasy, lightweight formula glides onto skin providing silky-smooth, natural-looking coverage. The unique hydrating core is designed to instantly quench skin.

• With purified hyaluronic acid

• Blends effortlessly to hide dark circles for a fresh look all day

• Oil-free, non-comedogenic

• Ophthalmologist tested: safe for sensitive eyes & contact lens wearers

• Available in 5 blendable shades

Now that we know what we're supposed to expect, let's pit these two products against each other and see what we find. Is the Neutrogena Hydro Boost a dupe for Benefit's Fake Up? Let's find out!

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*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 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: NYX Epic Ink Waterproof Eyeliner | Dupe Alert! | New at the Drugstore

This post contains affiliate and referral links.*

So you guys know that my mission in life is to find the best liquid liner and tell you about it, right? 

(OK, so maybe I also like to tell you about all kinds of other beauty products too, but liquid liner is definitely a favorite)

Remember how excited I was about the Jesse's Girl Liquid Liner? Well, if you were bummed that you didn't live near a Rite aid, then I've got more good news for you. NYX unleashed a new liquid liner onto the market that sent shivers down my spine and gave me that fluttery feeling in my stomach.

Yep, it's that serious. 

Let me introduce you to the NYX Epic Ink waterproof liner ($7.99, 0.03 oz). Does it remind you of anything? 

If you said it reminds you of the Kat von D Tattoo liner, then you had the same thought I did. And let me tell you, when I saw it at the store, a actually let out a happy little squeal (and got a few side-eye stared -- but they just don't understand the magic, now do they?). 

As soon as I read the description, I knew I had to buy it and test it out. Check it out (description from NYX's site, emphasis by me): 

Live for super-sharp wing inspo? Don't just "like" all your faves, draw 'em yourself using NYX Cosmetics' Epic Ink Liner. Featuring a slender and supple brush tip, this intensely pigmented, waterproof pen lets you achieve black liquid lines effortlessly. Every stroke is unbelievably fluid for a defined finish. Control the thickness of your lines by pressing down just a touch. Fine and natural, broad and bold - the look is always up to you!

Mmmmmhmmmm... I needed it. And since ULTA was having a buy one, get one half off sale, I purchased the last two in the store that day (because I'm extra like that). If it was indeed a dupe, I wasn't about to ever be without it.

Check out my video below to see the NYX Epic Ink Liner in action and side-by-side with my Tattoo Liner to see for yourself.

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*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!

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*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.”

Review: NYX Total Control Drop Foundation | New at the Drugstore

This post contains affiliate and referral links.*

Hey everyone! Happy New Year! We're excited to kick off 2017 with a new product review. 

Judging by all the promising new products popping up on my instagram feed and the shelves at a beauty aisle near you, we might be in store for a great year -- at least in the beauty arena. 

Today we are going to tell you about the NYX Total Control Drop Foundation (0.43 oz, $14) that recently hit shelves at ULTA.  Currently, 14 shades are available online, and six in store, but come January 28 the full line of 24 shades officially releases. (NOTE: You can get all 24 shades directly from NYX now.) 

NYX Total Control Drop Foundation 07 Natural

NYX's Total Control Foundation's dropper bottle design (pictured above) reminds me of the Perricone MD No Foundation Foundation Serum and the Sephora Collection Teint Infusion Ethereal Natural Finish Foundation. Honorable mention to the Bobbi Brown Intensive Skin Serum Foundation for also having a dropper bottle design, albeit a sleek black bottle instead of frosted glass. 

Many people are wondering if NYX is creating a dupe for the Cover FX Custom Cover Drops, but I think they're actually trying to replicate serum foundations (like the ones previously mentioned) instead. 

The difference? CoverFX Custom Drops are meant to be mixed with your skincare or current foundations in order to adjust coverage, while NYX's foundation is meant to stand alone as your foundation. And in my testing I can say it's definitely not a dupe for the CoverFX drops. And I haven't tested other serum foundations, so I can't compare. 

But, regardless of whether or not this product is a drugstore dupe for a higher end brand, the fact remains that the claims are alluring. 

According to NYX the Total Control Drop Foundation: 

• Offers adjustable coverage  (sheer to full coverage) by simply adjusting the number of drops used (the box provides a legend) 
• Provide a velvety matte smooth finish that's light weight

The matte finish makes me think this is geared toward those with combination to oily skin. Those with dry skin might not want to try this, or if they do, moisturize well before hand and use a hydrating primer.

Check out my video review to learn more about the foundation, see me apply it to find out if it's truly buildable, and find out my final thoughts. 

Is this foundation gunning for holy grail status or is it just alright? Let's find out. 

Like what you saw? Subscribe for more!

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*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 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) 

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*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.”

Review: Elf Cosmetics Studio Brushes | Dupes for It Cosmetics?

This post contains products I purchased myself, press samples, affiliate and referral links.* 

Hi guys! Remember way back long long ago when I hauled some new elf brushes? No?

They were the ones I got because I thought they were dupes for some high-end favorites. Still not ringing a bell? Well here's where maybe the elf haul post will jog your memory.

Anyway, I finally got my butt in gear and reviewed these, just in time for elf to release their latest brush collection (the new brushes hadn't been released at the time I filmed this video).

Regardless, some of you wanted to know what I thought of these brushes and if they were indeed reliable $6 dupes. The answer is: Yes.

Check out my video to see which brushes are dupes for my favorite It Cosmetic brushes and which dupes left me kinda disappointed.

e.l.f. Ultimate Blending Brush | It Brushes for ULTA 101 Airbrush Blurring Brush | It Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Brush (press sample)  | e.l.f. Selfie Ready Powder Brush | It Brushes for ULTA 102 Airbrush Smoothing Brush | Real Techniques Expert Face Brush |  e.l.f. Selfie Ready Foundation Brush | e.l.f. Sculpting Face Brush 

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*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. Also, 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.”

Top 5 Beauty Favorites | August 2016

This post contains products I purchased myself, press samples, and affiliate links. 

I can't believe summer is pretty much over.

Don't get me wrong. It's not like I'm sad because the days of frolicking on the beach are coming to a close.

Let's get real. I'm in Florida.

Fall is just an extension of summer down here. So it's certainly not time to pack up the flip flops and bikinis. Heck, it might even be better than summer. Why? For starters fewer tourists, which means the beach is less crowded and fewer people are feeding the seagulls. The kids are back in school -- another contribution to the quiet beach ambiance. And, as long as hurricane season doesn't totally assault us, then it's still warm, but much less humid -- making outdoor activities (ahem, back to the beach) more tolerable.

Summer "light" does have its benefits.

No. I'm sad because I'm gonna miss that carefree summer feeling. Everyone at work will be coming back from their summer trips and the post-summer work frenzy begins. This time of year also makes me a yearn for some of the things the rest of you get to enjoy about fall. Particularly that crisp, comfortable fall air. It may not be bathing suit friendly, but boy is it refreshing (and makes for some amazing hair days!).

So, I'll be sitting around with my fall scented candles trying to recreate that awesome fall feeling -- even if I have to do it in sandals and tank tops.

But I digress.

We've officially put another month behind us as we speed through 2016. That can only mean it's time to round up my favorite beauty products from the past month. So let's discuss.

Mink Wink Lashes (Cherie) | Mirrovana 8" 5X Magnifying Daylight LED Mirror |  It Cosmetics Brush Bath | Physician's Formula Butter Bronzer | Makeup Revolution Rose Gold Lipstick  

Mink Wink Lashes 25% off coupon code: GirlyE (exp. 9/30/16)
NOTE: I do not receive commission on sales. This is just an opportunity to pass on savings!

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! (and 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. Also, 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.”

Top Five Beauty Favorites | July 2016

This post includes products I purchased myself,  press samples, affiliate and referral links.* 

I can't believe July is over and that fall is just around the corner. I'm not ready. I live in Florida and have been so busy at work I've basically squandered my summer and barely made it out to the beach this year. Unacceptable. 

But what I've neglected in beach time, I've made up for in product testing. So today I'm bringing you my favorite beauty products from the month of July. 

As you know we really like to narrow down the list to the most extra special items: My beauty top five. 

So let's not waste any more time and get right into it. Check out the products I've been loving (and why) in my video below. But first, comment and tell me some of your recent favorites so I can go test out new products and spread the word!

Macademia Professional Weightless Moisture Line (Shampoo | Conditioner | Leave-in ) | Eva NYC Speed it Up Blow Dry Spray* | Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil (Shade 03) | Benefit High Brow (Linen Pink) | Make Up For Ever Brush #108*  

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*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above (press samples are marked with an *) for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Also 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 sign up for the program, 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: Yes to Coconut Ultra Hydrating Melting Cleanser

Affiliate and referral links used.*

Hey everyone. I hope you had a better weekend than I did. I have been battling a cold for a few days and losing. Flat out losing. Damn you germs! I don't have much to share about my weekend because I kept it low key and tried to rest as much as possible so I didn't anger the cold and make it worse.

So since I don't have much to share on the life front. Let's get straight into the topic of this post. Today I'm reviewing the Yes to Coconut Ultra Hydrating Melting Cleanser ($9.99, 4 fl. oz.) that I picked up in my most recent ULTA Haul.

If you've been around this blog for a while, you know I have a weakness for cleansing oils.

Ok, I have a weakness for beauty products in general. But I love cleansing oils so much that I feel it's almost a duty to try as many as I can.

I'm really happy that the cleansing oil craze made it to the U.S. and that more and more drugstore brands are joining the party and adding them to their lines. As you may remember, the Neutrogena Cleansing Oil is one of my favorites. So naturally, when I saw this Yes to Coconut Ultra Hydrating Melting Cleanser, I had to try it.

This one is different from your traditional cleansing oil since it's more on the thicker, solid-ish side of things. But nevertheless, it's an oil cleanser with the main active oils being coconut oil and moringa seed oil. All this adds up to my having to try it.

Check out my video review below to find out what I thought. Hint: Dry skin peeps should pay attention! Then let me know if you try it out too (or if you already have!!).

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*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/program, I will receive an affiliate commission or referral points/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.”

ULTA Beauty Haul | July 2016

It's been a minute and a half since I uploaded a beauty haul for you guys -- and I know that you like them.

So we're staring off this week by distracting you with a little bit of my weekend shopping shenanigans. Let's ignore Monday with a little weekend nostalgia. Shall we?

This shopping trip was brought to you by the 20% off entire purchase coupon from ULTA. If you haven't joined their rewards program, I'm not sure what you're waiting for. It's a damn good one. Earn points, cash those points in for money off your purchase, get reward member coupons. And if you make it to platinum status, you'll earn points faster, and get access to platinum member special sales, discounts and coupons.

I basically only shop at ULTA when I have a 20% coupon these days, unless I'm out of something and need to get it right now or if it's a non prestige item and I can use a regular ULTA coupon that comes in their weekly flyer. If you use my referral link to join the ULTA Rewards program, you'll earn a $10 off coupon (and then when you join you get your own referral link too!)

Ok, now let's take a peek and see what's in that shopping bag! Oh by the way, what was the last beauty purchase you made? Comment below and tell me!

Benefit Precisely My Brow (03) | Benefit High Brow (Linen Pink) | Benefit They're Real Mascara (mini) | Benefit Fake Up concealer | Benefit Posie Tint |  Benefit Porefessional (mini) | Japonesque Kumodori Highlight & Contour brush | Yes to Coconuts Ultra Hydrating Melting Cleanser | Nip + Fab Dragon's Blood Fix Plumping Serum | NYX Micro Brow (Brunette) | 

It Cosmetics Brush Bath | Makeup Revolution Rose Gold Lipstick (Chauffer) |Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick (Crush) | Soap & Glory Sexy Motherpucker XL Extreme Lip Plump Gloss 

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Mink Wink Lashes 25% discount code: GirlyE (expires 9/30/16)

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/program, I will receive an affiliate commission or referral points/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.

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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* L'Oreal True Match Lumi Cushion Foundation

Get excited everyone! Cushion foundations have made their way into the drugstore!

If you are a fan of these super light weight formulas, then you'll be happy to hear that L'Oreal just released their own version as part of their True Match line.

You know from my December favorites video that I love my It Cosmetics CC+ Veil foundation. So you know I had to try L'oreal's take on it. I'm a huge fan of the True Match line. In fact, it's my favorite drugstore foundation and I recommend it to friends and family often. So there was no question that I had to get my hands on this.

I've been testing it out for the past two weeks and I'm ready to tell you if it's worth your hard earned cash. (Spoiler: It is!)

You can find the L'Oreal Lumi Cushion Foundation anywhere L'Oreal products are sold. I picked mine up at ULTA for $16.99 (0.51 oz/14.6g) in the shade W3 nude beige. But, you know that if you wait a little longer for it to hit budget stores like Target and Walmart (I haven't seen it at my local stores just yet, but you know it's coming) you might save an extra dollar or two.  Incidentally, what is up with the ULTA/CVS/Walgreens markup anyway?!

I couldn't wait and I had a 20% off coupon from ULTA so I went ahead and grabbed mine early (it was available online in December and hit stores in January). Since this is a bit pricier than your typical drugstore foundation (and the foundations in the True Match line), don't forget to stack savings using manufacturer's coupons and store coupons when you can (for example a $3.50 off or 20% off ULTA coupon). If you shop online, you can earn cash back savings using ebates.

OK, enough with all the preliminary stuff. Check out my review below so you can hear all about why this foundation is awesome.

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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, I will receive an affiliate commission or referral reward. 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.”