Beauty Review // The Balm Brand Overview

Since resolving to go Cruelty Free this year with my make up (and eventually my household products), I've had the chance to really examine what I love about the make up I buy.  There are a few obvious things - great shade collection, ease of application, long wear, pigmentation, etc.  But there are a few other things like packaging and affordability that impress me.  The best quality for the price is what really motivates me when it comes to cosmetics - I am known to purchase holiday kits from brands because they give you the most bang!

The Balm Cosmetics sort of got pushed to the back of my makeup collection but now, because I'm evaluating what is cruelty free, I discovered this brand doesn't test on animals!  I have a few products I love from this brand but now I'm open to trying more and keeping my eye out for new products.  Here is a quick brand overview if you're interested in trying their products!

Products Offered

The Balm offers a ton of different products.  They are, I guess you'd say, a full service cosmetic brand since the carry makeup, hair care, skin care, & nail polish.  Started in 2004, the brand boasts multipurpose products for a 'beauty in 5 minutes' mind set. Their signature, retro inspired packaging makes for a fun & funky make up collection.  You may be most familiar with these products by one of two things - the pinup girl illustrations or the tongue in cheek product names.  In recent years, The Balm has moved away from it's strictly 50's retro aesthetic to include more products that use a play on words as the product name.  There are now some packages that boast a comic book style and even something I relate to the 80's.

One of the best parts of the brand is there selection of palettes.  This is my favorite part of a brand because I like to get more bang for my buck!  Currently I am eyeing the Highlite 'N Con Tour palette as well as the In the Balm of Your Hand greatest hits palette.  These both offer a variety of product for a good price.

Their products are aren't tested on animals & are paraben free.  Their eye shadows & blushes are also talc free.  As far as I know they still use beeswax in some of their products, so they aren't a vegan brand.

Availability

This brand has become more widely available in recent years.  Of course you can purchase from their website but I often shop for the brand locally at my Khols.  It seems that the may either create exclusive palettes/products for retail shops other than their online storefront because some of the palettes I have aren't found on their website.  I haven't seen The Balm in stores like Ulta & Sephora but the makeup selection in Khols makes a trip to their beauty department worth it.

I was first introduced to The Balm on HauteLook ages ago and I still have some of those products!  This is another reason why I like palettes - less product for me to hoard!  Honestly, I completely forgot about HauteLook until writing this post so I can't tell you if they've been on there recently!  HauteLook is a great place to save on high end makeup.  I've also shopped for The Balm products on Amazon.  A quick search reveals a huge selection on Overstock.com (plus you can use Ebates for cash back from Overstock!).  Both Amazon and Overstock seem to be the best place to purchase this brand.

My Favorites

I typically purchase cheek products & palettes from this brand as I feel those are the most unique.  I have tried a sample size of their matte liquid lipstick, and while it's great I don't think it is too unique from collections I already have.  The palettes and cheek products also offer the biggest space for their fun illustrations, so they are functional and nice to look at!

My two all time favorite palettes from this brand are the Manizer Sisters Lumnizing Collection & the Girls' Getaway Trio of long-wearing bronzer & blush.  These two palettes appealed to me because of their slim & compact size and because of how travel friendly they are.  I don't travel often but multipurpose products/palettes make my morning routines faster.  Pulling out one palette is easier than deciding what bronzer, blush, & highlight to use each morning!  I like variety but I also like ease.  And when I do travel, I'm more likely to reach for something like this because it has all I need.  These two palettes go great together!

I don't have an extensive collection of their bronzers or blushes, more like a mix of the different lines they offer.  I am eyeing their new line of bronzers - Take Home the Bronze - in three shades.  Currently I have the Bahama Mama bronzer and I used to use it all the time!  But I've moved to more subtle bronzers now.  I would say that the Instain Blushes are the blushes I'd reach the most for & I really love the Cabana Boy blush for the fall/winter time.  I'd like to get their greatest hits palettes to have a more compact way of taking some of these colors with me.

Eye shadow is not my favorite from this brand.  The colors are OK and the formula is alright, but I much prefer the formula of something like Wet n Wild or Lorac.  I have the Nude'tude palette and two of the Smoke Balm trios but I don't reach for those at all.  It just seems that while this brand has amazing color choices...there's not a good mix of matte & shimmer for me.  There's not enough in each palette to make me feel like I can get a couple of looks.  I'd only use a few colors.  They do offer completely matte palettes and even an option to build your own palette.  I'm just not as impressed with their eye shadows as I am with other products in their brand.

I've seen a grouping of their Meet Matt(e) Hughes matte liquid lipsticks on Amazon so that would entice me to try more of those colors if it was for the right price!  Like I mentioned above, I am all about the groups of products for a good price!

I hope this gave you a little bit of information on the brand if you're interested in trying it.  I'm sure you've heard of it before but you might have been a little curious as to the value of the brand.  Their cheek products are my favorite!

Have you tried The Balm?  What brands are your favorite?
xoxo, Moe

ps. read how I plan to transition to cruelty free this year here.

Beauty Review // Marc Jacobs Le Marc Liquid Lip Crayon

As I try to move to cruelty free this year I'm re-evaluating the products I review and am thinking about adding a disclaimer on past (and future) beauty reviews as to whether something is cruelty free.  These two Le Marc Liquid Lip Crayons were sent to me by Influesnter to review and after a little bit of research I discovered that the Marc Jacobs beauty line is cruelty free while the fragrance brand isn't.  (source)

So I wanted to bring to you today this review because I was pleasantly surprised with this lip crayon.  Two colors of the Le Marc Liquid Lip Crayon were sent to me - the first was Send Nudes a 90's inspired brown/nude and Flaming-Oh! a bright, bright pink with a little bit of a duochrome going on.  What surprised me about these is that they are little bit metallic and that is something I never thought that I would like! Here's the lo-down:

Cruelty free? 

yes (source, source)

From the Website

A creamy, 16-hour long wear lip crayon that has the look, feel, and wear of a liquid lipstick in range of bold, covetable shades.  

Rewrite the (lipstick) rules: Le Marc Liquid Lip Crayon is everything you love about a liquid lipstick in the form of a creamy crayon.

It melts into lips with a lightweight liquid sensation, providing powerful one-swipe color with bold impact. A dose of innovative "ghost pearl" gives the matte look a dimensional sheen, which becomes more visible at certain angles to give lips a modern, never-before-seen finish.

With the perfect amount of playtime, you get the best of both worlds: instant color that lasts for up to 16 luxurious hours of long-wear. The bold, high-pigment shades feel creamy and comfortable and won’t dry or settle into lines.

The crayon offers total control for effortless application. It's easier than ever to shape and fill your lips. Have it both ways: You never need to choose between a traditional lipstick or a liquid again with this new lip innovation.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:

- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Phthalates

taken from the Sephora website here.

First Impressions & Application

This lip crayon applies super smoothly.  It is supposed to mimic the coverage & smoothness of a liquid lip color with the ease of a lip crayon...and it does.  The application is precise because of the point however I'm not sure if point will dull over time.  It applies evenly and you really only need on swipe!

I first applied the nude color and didn't notice what they call the 'ghost pearl' until a little bit later.  Since I was sent this by Influenster I just put it on my lips!  I didn't read anything about it! So a little while later while I was at work I noticed in the mirror it was a sort of metallic finish.  This was a surprise because I didn't think metallic finishes would look good on me.  I do have to say I did not really care for the extreme brown 90's look....but it was alright.  I still do wear this color when I'm looking for something fun yet toned down.

The other color, Flaming-Oh! is pretty cool because this ghost pearl is more of a blue-ish duochrome which really throws something fun in the mix!  It applies just as smoothly as Send Nudes (clever name right?) but I think it suits me better.  It reminds me of my favorite pink lip color from Too Faced.  I should do a favorite bright pink lipsticks post....hmmmmmm.....  The ghost pearl on this one is even harder to capture! But there's a blue hint there, I promise!

Wear Time

The claim is 16 hours and I wear my make up for about 10 hours and I can say this is the truth!  I don't take my lipstick off when I eat (nor do I try to touch up!) so this makes it through.  I haven't tried with a really oily salad dressing though.  It is important to me for a lipstick to stay put and I think that matte lip colors are the best for longevity.

Overall Impressions & Recommendations

Over on the Sephora site I gave these bad boys a 4 out of 5 stars.  The only problem I have with them is that they really, really show dry lips.  It is winter time right now so my lips are incredibly dry no matter how much I hydrate so its important for my lip color not to accentuate this!!  BUT with that said I'd totally recommend these liquid lip crayons.

Because of their long wear and ease of application I can see myself wearing these on the regular.  Especially when I need something quick.  I was so glad I got a nude and a bright color so I could see which end of the spectrum I loved!

I am so happy I was pleasantly surprised with the finish of these.  I never would have thought that metallic was something I could get behind.  The price of these guys is $26 on the Sephora site so it might be worth it to stop in a store to see if there are any colors you absolutely love.  The Le Marc Liquid Lip Crayons come in 10 shades - a few nudes, a bright pink, a red, a few mauves, and even a black!  I'd love to try the black one!

What is your favorite lip color brand/formula?  Are you a lip crayon or liquid lip color person?

xoxo, Moe

Beauty Review // 15 Minute Everyday Make Up Routine

I've been really, really, really trying to stream line my morning routine.  Since incorporating being more mindful in my everyday life, my morning routine has become super important to me.  It is a time for me, myself, & I to connect.  I've totally fallen out of the routine recently though.  I keep telling myself I can do it....but then I hit snooze.  (So if you have tips to get the hell up in the AM, I need them!)

this post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclosure here.

Putting on make up in the morning used to be a 100% go to for me.  Then it fell to the way side.  I think my skin got a whole lot clearer at some point in time and therefore I started giving less of a crap about make up!  My make up collection has been severely neglected these last few years as well.  I use the same products or types of products nearly everyday now.  And while I love that, I still want to purchase more products...but I don't find I use them.

Today I want to walk you through my 15 minute morning routine to get a fresh, fun face!  This is all drugstore too, so you won't break the bank!

The Base

One of the first things I do after I wake up is wash & moisturize my face.  I've been using products from doTERRA the promote clear skin.  After I wash, dry, spot treat, and moisturize I apply a primer if needed.  I haven't been using a primer recently but my all time favorite is this one from Rimmel.  I've been using it for ages!

The Foundation

In order to save time I don't do too much spot concealing.  I like to use medium to full coverage foundations in general so spot concealing isn't necessary.  The Wet n Wild Photo Focus foundation is perfect for this (review here).  I used to do a lot of color correcting as well, but using a more full coverage foundation also makes this unnecessary.

For quick application I use a Real Techniques sponge, using the flat bit to pat the foundation onto my face.  I use a bit of the Wet n Wild Photo Focus concealer under the eyes and as a primer for the eyelids.  The rounded side opposite the flat end is perfect for under the eyes & the other contours of the face.  To set it all, I use the Coty Airspun Loose Face Powder (review here) with the round side of the sponge.  Using one tool for my whole face saves time.

Complexion 

This is where we get into the multi purpose products I love so much.  Wet n Wild had a trio of blush, bronzer, and highlight one summer that I still use (#sorrynotsorry) but today I use the matte blush & bronzer duo in Figi from Eyes Lips Face.  I use a brush from this set on amazon for some light bronzing/contouring and a Real Techniques blush brush for the blush.  This set is great because both shades in the duo are perfect for my skin tone.  The blush is great for all seasons.  It makes the whole look no fuss.

Eyes & Brows

Eyes have already been primed with concealer & set with setting powder.  I use a crease brush to add a bit of definition with the bronzer.  If you're feeling feisty, adding a bit of the blush color on the lid will tie the whole look together.  This technique gives you a fresh, natural eye look especially if you don't have time in the morning!  

Brows are super easy with the Wet n Wild brow mascara.  This puts all the hairs in place and fills them in just a tad.  Then I use what ever mascara I have - this one is from Revlon.

Lips & Final Touches

To round out the look, I keep the lips simple with my favorite shade of the Wet n Wild Liquid Cat Suit in Rebel Rose.  Here is where I'll change it up if I've already got an idea in mind.  I'm not going to sit here for another 15 minutes deciding on a lip color!!  Some of my other faves include the Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Lip Colors and the NYX Lip Suedes.  Simple application & long lasting.  And of course, gotta add some highlight.  This one is from Make Up Revolution.

Recently, I haven't been using setting spray as my favorite isn't sold in America!! I love the Maybelline Super Stay Setting Spray that I got when we were in Amsterdam.  Zach should be going back here shortly.....so I hope he can bring a few bottles back for me!

So that is my get ready quick routine to have a fresh, natural face for work!  I've only recently been doing this routine but it has been working!  I love that this is a no fuss way to look put together in the morning.

I think the key here, though, is to find the products that work for you.  This has taken a lot of experimentation on my part (and created an extensive make up collection!).  I know what colors look best on me and what products make my life easier.  If a product is multi use, that makes my life easier!  I love using duos, trios, and face palettes - I only have to got for one thing instead of multiple products.  Anytime there are holiday sets or collections that come out I snatch them up!

I did time this and while I was taking the pictures and all in all it did not take over 18 minutes...so cutting out all the photo taking posing, and making sure I'm actually capturing what I want its got to be under 15 minutes!  Like I mentioned above, it's all about finding the best products for you to make your routine easier!

If you'd like a few more beauty posts, check them all out here!

How do you get ready quickly?  Any go to products you recommend?

xoxo, Moe

Beauty Review // Wet n Wild Photo Focus Foundation + Concealer

If you didn't know, Wet n Wild is one of my all time favorite brands from the drugstore.  Nearly every time there is a limited edition product from this brand I scoop it up.  I've curbed my makeup spending significantly over the last year or so - but honestly that is because I've found other interests!  None the less, Wet n Wild's new Photo Focus line has caught my eye.

I've had these products for quite a while and have to say I really do love this product.  You can't beat a great foundation under $10!

From the Website

Your skin, only better. Our new high-performing, skin-perfecting foundation underwent major road testing under seven different photo lighting conditions to deliver flawless camera-ready makeup every time. Specially made with a matte, light-diffusing complex to give your skin #nofilter perfection.

High-performing, breakthrough formula
Featuring light-adjusting complex to help prevent white cast in photos
Tested under 7 light conditions with and without the use of flash

taken from the Wet n Wild website here.

First Impressions & Application

When I first opened the bottle I was a little surprised by the little spatula type deal that is attached to the cap.  At first it reminded me of the way the Maybelline Dream Wonder Fluid Touch foundation bottle is made.  The product is a little thicker than the Dream Wonder foundation, from what I remember.  Using the spatula was not the first instinct I had, for sanitary reasons, so I poured the  product onto a make up palette.  The consistency of this foundation isn't too thick, though thicker than the Dream Wonder foundation and the Fit Me foundation by Maybeline.

I applied this with my Real Techniques Beauty Sponge and love this application.  The sponge does soak up quite a bit more of this foundation that I expected.  I'd say it soaks it up a little bit more than something like a Revlon Color Stay or even the Wet n Wild Coverall foundation.  The Photo Focus foundation seems to apply similarly to the Dream Wonder - it applies thinly, feels like there may be a little bit of oil (not in a bad way!) in the product.  The foundation applies easily and blends seamlessly.  I was impressed with the coverage which is medium, yet buildable.  It also doesn't apply too cakey.

The concealer is nothing to write home about, pretty average at best.  It applies evenly, has a light to medium coverage (good for brightening), and is really creamy so it blends well.  My first impression is that it is average but I prefer the Coverall Concealer from Wet n Wild.  

I also want to mention a lot of people said that the foundation smelled like paint.  It was the very first thing they noticed when working with the product.  When I first started wearing the foundation I did not notice the strong scent.  However, it did become noticeable over time!  

Wear Time

I work a typical 8 hour work day.  I would say that this foundation, with powder (my favorite powder here), lasts up to 9-10 hours.  It actually beats the heat too.  I wore this foundation for this photo shoot and it stood up to the heat and a few outfit changes!  It even looked great for dinner afterwards.

This foundation has become my go to for long wearing, easy application.  Not to mention the price is amazing!  With oily skin, it seems only the higher priced drug store products have a good chance of staying on me.  I don't notice that this breaks down or separates.

As for the concealer - again, pretty average.  Lasted a good while, even through the heat.  All concealers crease on me at some point.  This one was just as good as any other.  The thickness of the product didn't feel heavy or move around on me.

Overall Impressions and Recommendations

If you have oil skin, I 100% recommend this product.  It does have a little bit of a weird, paint like smell so if you're sensitive to smells application may be hard for you.  Since it wears pretty well and the price is super affordable, I plan to go back to the foundation in the future!

As for color range, the website says the shades go pretty deep but not too light.  There are 20 shades in all from porcelain to mahogany.   I'm actually surprised by the depth of the color range as I did not find shades too deep out in the stores.  I did check various Walgreen's - there is one by my work that carries very deep shades of all foundations - and still didn't see the darkest shades.  But if you can find these guys out in the wild, $6 for a foundation is affordable enough to grab two and mix your perfect shade.  This is exactly what I do.  It also mixes well with the Maybelline Fit Me Matte foundation.

All in all, I give this foundation a thumbs up.  Good coverage, long lasting, affordable, + a wide range of shades is all impressive.  As for the concealer - you probably have another one that is your favorite but this one is not too bad.  Nothing to get super excited about.

Have you found any drugstore favorites recently?  Anything super exciting?

xoxo, Moe

Beauty Review // Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Eye Primer

I'm not 100% sure how to review an eyeshadow primer - it has no color so there are no swatches of it - but I just knew I had to review this one.  First off I will spoil the review (I don't really like doing that) because I love this primer.  It seriously brings out the colors of even the cheapest shadows and makes them last super long!  I was very impressed using this primer thte other day with a drugstore Wet n Wild palette.  That palette is not the best quality that Wet n Wild can put out, but applying the shades over the primer made the colors more vibrant and increased the lasting power.

So let's just get into my thoughts on this product :

From the Website

A lightweight and waterproof formula that locks in your eye makeup and prevents shadow creasing. This silky blend dries transparent and preps your lids for a smooth and even application. Watch your favorite eye shadows intensely come to life. More importantly, it protects your eye makeup all day, so you can get back to the important things in life (cat videos, selfies, and hoarding makeup samples).

taken from the website here.

First Impression & Application

When I first applied this primer I was a little confused - it is very thick and I didn't realize that you only need a very, very tiny bit.  The first time I used this I think I used too much - it felt like a cheap cream shadow on my eyelids.  The key is to use the very least you can.

The way I apply this primer now is to take a bit about the size of the head of a pin - this is for both eyes!  I rub it between my two fore fingers to warm up the product, then gently swipe it onto my lids.  I then dab a clean finger (often my ring finger or middle finger) on my lids to pick up any excess product.  This is important because the shadows will blend easier.  This is the first primer I've used that has acted like a glue.  It doesn't really absorb into your skin but rather sits on top to create a sticky layer that holds onto the shadows.

Wear Time

This primer is great for cheapo shadows.  I used an old (yikes!) Wet n Wild eye shadow palette that didn't really have that great of a color pay off or lasting time with any other primers.  And I went into the bathroom before I left work to grab some lunch and my eye shadow was still there! It wasn't the greatest but it was still there!

In the picture above I tried to capture the color payoff of that not so great Wet n Wild palette and the lasting power of the primer.  This was a hard review to photograph!  You can see the light colors became a little more vibrant - like the pastel purple and even a little tiny bit of that pink and the cream color.  And the darker colors were the last to stick around.  That purple though is still showing up in the far right image!

I put on my make up at 6:30am and leave work around 4pm - so that is around 10 hours.  If I use a good shadow - like a Lorac palette - I find that I'm taking off my eye shadow with the rest of my make up when I get home.  That is impressive to me!

Overall Impressions & Recommendations 

I love this primer.  However, the full price is $20 for .35oz.  I got this sample in one of my last Ipsy bags and the sample size is .17oz.  I don't think I will ever go through this whole tube, honestly, so I can't tell you if I'd purchase this again or not.  I can tell you that I'm glad I tried it!  If long lasting primers are important to you I would suggest dropping the $20 on this.  The tube will last you literally forever so it is worth the money.  This is my current holy grail primer - I've had it in my last few make up baskets too!

I hope this little review was helpful - I am so very glad I have this product.  It really is a standout!

Do you have a current favorite eye shadow primer?  Any products to recommend?

xoxo, Moe

Beauty Review // Coty Airspun Loose Face Powder

I've been trying to start this year out right by switching around my daily makeup every month and putting up my Makeup Baskets on my YouTube channel.  So far so good!  I found a product in the depths of my makeup collection - the Coty Airspun Loose Powder.  And it has changed my makeup game.  I remember using this waaaayyyyy back when and I've discovered a brand new way to use it.  It keeps my makeup on all day long!

From the Website

I can't find an actual website for the product, though this is the Coty website.  So this information is from the back of my packaging:

Featuring an exclusive Microspun formula where loose powder particles are spun and swirled until the reach a cloud like softness.  This ultra smooth powder hides tiny lines, wrinkles, and blemishes, and gives a new softness to your skin.  Use to set makeup or as a foundation.  Long lasting.  Dermatologically tested.

First Impressions and Application

First off - if you do not purchase the unscented version, be prepared to smell like an incredibly floral grandma for a bit.  Secondly - this powder is very, very messy.  The powder will go everywhere, believe me.

When I first purchased this powder way back when I used it set my makeup with the puff that is provided.  I pressed it all over my face to create a visible layer then used a powder brush to sweep off the excess.  I wasn't too impressed with this application.

Most recently I've been applying the powder with a damp beauty sponge - the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge.  This sponge has many sides perfect for various applications.  I use the flat side of the sponge for foundation, the pointed side opposite the flat side to blend in concealer, then the flip side (the long, smooth football side) to pick up the powder.  This long smooth side has a lot of surface area to pick up the powder plus a pointed side to blend the powder under the eye.

I use tapping motions to blend the powder into my skin, much like one would tap in foundation with a beauty sponge.

Wear Time

I find with a good primer and good, long lasting foundation this powder can give me a full 8-10 hours of wear.  At about the time my face starts to show oil (the 3 or 4 hour mark) my face still looks fresh.  The foundation hasn't worn off and there is very, very little oil showing through.  My face looks fresh, it is really nice.  By the end of the day a super close up of my face shows a little bit of breakdown, but not too much.  I'd say that even a photograph wouldn't pick up on the break down!  It is super impressive to get home after having my makeup on for 10 hours and feel like it is just starting to show some breakdown.

Additionally - trying to get this off with just a makeup wipe is crazy!! The product is definitely stuck on your skin and you'll pull your skin before you can get it all off!  A good cleanser is required for removal...but I'm not complaining!

Overall Impressions and Recommendations

All in all I would suggest you picking this up if you need your makeup to last a crazy amount of time.  The Translucent Extra Coverage shade that I have still shows up a bit pink on my skin but blending down the neck helps with that.

There are a few shades so it might take some trial and error to find your correct one and if you can find the unscented version, I'd go with that.  Mine has the scent and I've gotten used to it (sort of).  I still plan to use it because it has amazing lasting power!!

Are there any rediscovered products you'd recommend?

xoxo, Moe

Beauty Review // Affordable Drugstore Contour & Highlight

There have been a ton of new releases at the drugstore recently and I honestly can't get enough.  I am a drugstore beauty girl at heart and love picking up brand new things.  Today I want to share with you two affordable ways to highlight and contour using Wet n Wild products!  Both, I believe, are reformulated, re-releases - the highlight and contour duo is a reformulated version of the previous highlight and contour powders they released (I believe) in 2014/2015 and the shimmery highlighting palette is a new format of the Mega Glow powders (I'm pretty sure).  Either way these products have the brand new label at the drugstore and I think they both are they bomb!

This is going to be a different type of review on these products - I usually follow a different format in my previous reviews, but this is going to be more about the process and showing how to incorporate products into a routine.  Plus I'd like to do some posts featuring brushes to use or brushes that might be helpful for different products.  Hope you enjoy!

The Products

The Wet n Wild MegaGlow Contouring Palette in Dulce De Leche features two amazingly soft, blendable powders.  The powder on the left is a lighter powders - ideal for lighter skin tones - that can be used to set the under eye area and the center of the face, or any other areas of the face that should appear brighter.  The powder on the right is a deeper brown color that lends more neutral - not too orange or too ashy.  This color is perfect for creating a sculpted look.  Each powder is very, very buildable and blendable so there isn't a risk of packing on too much color.

The bushes I use with the Contouring Palette are the Elf Complexion brush for all over bronzing & contouring and the Elf Blush Brush to set the highlighted parts of my face.  Each brush is affordable and can be found either online on the Eyes Lips Face website or in stores (Target, Walgreens, etc.)

The MegaGlow Illuminating Palette reminds me of the smaller illuminating product the brand used to have featuring a similar stripe pattern.  There used to be a few shads of this product, but this seems to be a rerelease of this product.  I can't find this newer face palette on the Wet n Wild website.  This new palette features a wider surface area for each color and it is easier to target the color you might like to use.  Again, these powders are soft, buildable, and blendable for easy application.

The brush I love to use with any highlighter is the Elf Small Tapered Brush.  This brush has a smaller egg shape and is perfect for placing & blending the powders.  I have not seen this brush other than online at the Eyes Lips Face website.

The Swatches

Wet n Wild MegaGlow Contouring Palette in Dulce De Leche

rigth - highlighting powder // left - contouring powder

Wet n Wild MegaGlow Illuminating Palette in Catwalk Pink

The Process

After applying foundation but before setting the rest of the face, I use the flat side of the Elf Blush Brush to pick up the lighter powder in the contouring duo.  I gently place the powder under my eyes and down the center of my face.  Using a transparent powder, I then set the rest of my face.

Using the tip of the Elf Complexion Brush, I pick up some of the deeper shade in the contouring palette.  I start off by working the color into the hollows of my cheeks the up around my temples and hairline.  Then I work any excess beneath my jawbone.  This brush applies just the right amount and allows precise placement but also the ability to blend with out switching tools.

The broader side of the Elf Small Taper Brush is perfect for picking up highlighter.  I usually tap the brush across all colors of the Illuminating palette and then place, in a sweeping motion, the highlighter on the tops of my cheek bones.  I work any additional product up above my browbone as well.  This brush is perfect to build up the color.  I then use the pointed tip of the brush to blend in circular motions.  This creates a better blend between all of my face products.

Overall Review & Recommendations

These products impressed the pants off me.  If you're just getting into highlighting and contouring this contouring palette is my top recommendation.  It is under $5 at the drugstore and the quality is on point!  

While I do like the illuminating palette, I do thing the Fergie Center Stage Collection Shimmer Palettes are much better highlighters.  Plus, there are an assortment of colors in the shimmer palettes.  This Illuminating Palette is not a drugstore must have for me - there is a better option with in the brand, plus Elf has great highlighter options.

Hope this little review was helpful!  I have a ton more products I want to at least mention on the blog!!

What are your drugstore must have items?  Any new releases you're in love with?

xoxo, Moe

Beauty Review // Bare Minerals Regal Wardrobe

I know I'm a bit late on the holiday palette train...and I don't even know if you can get these eye shadows/blushes apart from this holiday set.  However, when I decided to pick up the Bare Minerals the Regal Wardrobe palette on a whim I was so pleased with myself.  I am always on the hunt for compact, travel make up.  I don't do a lot of traveling but there is something about everything being in one place that makes me want to try a palette out.  

I have to ruin the review for you - I love this palette!  I can't wait to try more Bare Minerals products.  Let's get into the review though:

From the Website

Instantly elevate your wardrobe with this ethereally elegant palette, featuring an expertly coordinated assortment of eye and cheek colors. Choose one of the two included looks, or mix and match for year-round glamour.

A $126 value!

Includes:

• bareMinerals READY Bronzer The Skinny Dip (light tan) (0.1 oz)
• bareMinerals READY Blush The Love Letter (warm mauve), and The Summer Fling (creamy peach) (0.07 oz)
• bareMinerals READY Luminizer The Brilliant Sunset (array of light) (0.09 oz)
• bareMinerals READY Eye Shadow in Regal (velvet plum), Treasure Hunt (shimmering taupe), Natural (light buttery peach), Cognac (gilded bronze), Namaste (sandy brown), 500 Thread Count (airy pink), Romp (iridescent lilac), and Flash (matte purple clay) (0.04 oz each)

taken from the Ulta website here.

First Impressions & Application

So, from that little clip from the Ulta website, it looks like you can get these products outside of the Regal Wardrobe palette.  The packaging is what impressed me first.  I love the gilded detail and the feel of the packaging.  It reminds me a little bit of the Lorac travel palettes and packaging style.  I was a little confused about why the mirror folds down over the eyeshadows and then the blush palette folds over the mirror...but now that I think of it, I guess it keeps the two products from mixing.  You don't want purple eyeshadow to get into your pink blush, right?

from left to right Natural (matches my skin tone, so it didn't really show up), Cognac, Namaste, Treasure Hunt

The texture of these products is not a smooth as a Lorac shadow but not as tough as a Revlon shadow (I hope you can get my comparison here!)  It doesn't take a lot of work to pick up the color onto your brushes.  The eyeshadows seem to have a bit more pigment than the blushes - but that isn't necessarily a bad thing.  You don't want an big pink swipe on your cheek!

The pans are a decent size, though the blush pans seem to be a little small to fit my Real Techniques Blush Brush into.  I feel like I got a lot of product for my money, though.  Additionally, the set includes a guide to show you how to create two different looks with the included products.  There is sort of a neutral look and sort of a smokey look.

from left to right 500 Thread Count, Romp, Flash, Regal

When I investigated this palette further I realized that I liked it because it was what I wanted the Maybelline Holiday Palettes to be.  A great, on the go, versatile palette that you can throw in a bag and be fine with.  Everything about this palette got a nod from me as I was playing with it!

Wear Time

I'd say the wear time of this is a little above average.  The eyeshadow was still visible on my lids at the end of the day.  I didn't really see any creasing, though it didn't look as freshly applied as it did in the am.  The eyeshadows blended nicely and created a defined look that was visible through out the day.

from left to right The Brilliant Sunset, The Summer Fling, The Skinny Dip, The Love Letter

The blushes had a nice lasting power as well.  I noticed them on my cheeks through out the day but my cheeks lost a little bit of color, like they do with all blushes, by the end of the night.  The highlighter stuck around a decent amount as well.  I loved looking at my cheeks in the bathroom mirror through the day but by the late afternoon, it seemed to be fading away.  The bronzer is a bit orange for me - just not my coloring - so I didn't get too much use out of it.

Overall Impressions & Recommendations

If you can still find this palette I would snatch it up!  I love the compact style of this palette and how great it is for travel.  Honestly, this might be my go to travel palette.  It won't take up too much room in your makeup bag so you could even bring your other favorite travel palette!

The highlight is nice and if you like more rosy pink highlights (think Cindy Loumanizer) see if you can pick up that highlight by itself - it is gorgeous!

Overall I give this palette two very big thumbs up and am so glad to have it in my collection!  I think the idea of adding a how-to guide is great as well. 

Hope you got all the holiday makeup palettes you asked Santa for!  What was on your list?

xoxo, Moe

Beauty Review // Shea Moisture 10 in 1 Renewal System Hair Masque

A bit ago I did a little review on the Macadamia Natural Oil Deep Repair Masque, and today I'd like to share with you a drugstore version.  This is the Shea Moisture SuperFruit Masque I found at Target one evening.  I've been using it for a bit and want to share with you my thoughts on this hair mask and compare it to the Macadamia Oil one.

this post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclosure here.

The full name, if you want to know, is Shea Moisture SuperFruit Complex 10-in-1 Renewal System w/ Marula Oil and Biotin Hair Masque!

From The Website

SheaMoisture's SuperFruit Masque contains powerful antioxidant properties that support and protect aging hair for the effect of UV exposure and other environmental aggressors. Nourishing oils hydrate and smooth coarse hair.

taken from the Ulta website here

The bottle claims it will age-defy, color protect, hydrate, nourish, soften, anti-stress, deep condition, revive body, strengthen, and add shine.

First Impressions & Application

This product comes in a tub with a screw off lid.  First off, because of the shape of the container - the bottom isn't rounded like the Macadamia Natural Oil masque - you are able to hold it easier in the shower.  You can twist on and off the cap with ease...so I noticed that first since I had a time with the Macadamia Natural Oil packaging!  The texture of this hair mask is very similar to the Macadamia one.  It is quite thick yet easy to spread.  I use about the same amount as the Macadamia product - scoop some out on my finger tips and apply it to my hair then close the cap.

The product is easy enough to distribute through out the hair.  I use my fingers but the website suggests using a wide tooth comb, I believe either would work as long as you make sure to distribute it evenly.  The Shea Moisture SuperFruit masque doesn't feel as slippery as the Macadamia Natural Oil masque but it the consistency did remind me of mayonnaise as well.  The scent is weird, but fruity.  It's not my favorite scent but I did get used to it.  

Wear Time

Once my hair dried after the first application I was impressed with how smooth my hair felt.  I remember after the first application of the Macadamia Natural Oil masque I wasn't too impressed.  My hair felt smooth and not as coarse (I wouldn't consider my hair coarse to begin with, so that is how smooth it felt).  With the Shea Moisture SuperFruit masque, my hair did feel instantly renewed......... like the Macadamia Oil masque claimed.

I tried using this instead of my regular conditioner (like I did with the Macadamia Natural Oil masque) but found it to be too heavy on my hair.  After a few days of constant use, my hair felt oily and weighed down.  I went to using it every other day, and then every few days, and I think that every few days is the best way to use this.  I still use my every day conditioner from the Suave Moroccan Oil line on the days I'm not using the Shea Moisture SuperFruit masque.  I've also found that if I put this masque about .5 inches from my scalp, I get better results.  My hair isn't as oily at the root that way.

Overall Impressions & Recommendations

I have to say for the price compared to the Macadamia Natural Oil masque - the Shea Moisture SuperFruit masque is the better value.  On the Ulta website it is listed as $12.99, on Amazon it is a little over $13, but I think I got this at Target for around $10 (maybe).  I do love how my hair feels after I use it.  I feel that my hair is being renewed and hydrated much more than with my everyday conditioner and more that the Macadamia Natural Oil masque.  The 12 oz size of the Shea Moisture SuperFruit masque is nearly half the price of the 8.5 oz size of the Macadamia Natural Oil masque and I didn't use it nearly as fast (you can see there is still product in the tub!)

I have to say I will repurchase this hair treatment and continue to use it as I continue to dye my hair!

Do you have a favorite hair treatment?  Is your hair damaged like mine?

xoxo, Moe

Beauty Review // Highlight Palette Comparison & Review

Guys, highlighting is the best.  Beside all make up products, highlighters are the best thing in the world.  I've got 3 highlighting palettes for you to today that I wanted to do a quick comparison on - the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Palette, the Balm's Manizer Sisters trio, and the Elf Illuminating Palette.  Like, for real guys...I love all three of these, but I'll go ahead and spoil it for you if you're looking for an affordable highlighting palette Eyes Lips Face has you covered.

this post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclosure here

But lets talk about them all...

From the Website

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Palette

Create your perfect light with this palette featuring three shades of Ambient Lighting Powder, which utilize Photoluminescent Technology to filter out harsh light and refine the appearance of the complexion. Each of these high-tech, soft-focus finishing powders recreate an exquisitely flattering light source. The powders can be applied individually or layered to imbue skin with a multidimensional glow.  Cost: $58.

taken from the website here

The Balm's Manizer Sisters

Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, this trio of Manizers has been found guilty - of being gorgeous. Designed for girls on the run, this highlighting trio enables you to emphasize your finest features. This palette contains three triple-milled multi-tasking highlighter, shimmers and shadows. These champagne, rose, and golden-bronze shades are flattering on all skin tones and easy to use so you can take your glow on the go. Cost: $28

taken from the website here.

Elf Illuminating Palette

This beautiful illuminating palette holds 4 gorgeous complementary shades to mix and match for a custom blended radiance that captures, diffuses, and softens the way light reflects on the skin. The soft-focus powders are great for highlighting around the eyes and on cheekbones to enhance the skin with a luminous effect. Perfect for all skin tones.  Cost: $6

taken from the website here.

First Impressions & Application

So let's get too it, and this is going to be hard.  Each palette is filled with highlight powders that are very pigmented.  Not one of these palettes has a dud.  While I would say each palette has unique colors, there are some that are comparable.  The textures vary between each palette - the smoothest texture being in the Ambient palette\ - but none of them kick up too much powder.

The Ambient Lighting palette has one satin shade - the Dim Light - and two other shades - Incandescent and Radiant Light - that seem to have a bit of shimmer in them.  That didn't pick up on the swatches but there's definitely some glittery brightness (and not in a bad way).  The texture is velvety smooth, and it really does feel luxe.  For the price, the texture is what I'd expected.

The Manizer Sisters trio is a bit more bold with the pigmentation.  Each has a little bit of that shimmer though the Cindy-Lou Manizer has more of a satin finish.  In person it also has sort of an iridescence to it as well.  The texture of these remind me of an eyeshadow rather than a face product, but that doesn't affect the application or my over all opinion of it.

The Elf Illuminating palette has all satin finish shades. Any thing that looks like it might have a little bit of that shimmer blends out to be a purely satin finish.  These powders are very, very soft and have the texture of a face product.  This $6 palette impressed me more than the Manizer Sisters being that the Manizer set is the middle end product here.

Honestly if you had these pans out, unlabeled, I would choose the Elf powders as the middle end product.

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Palette Swatches

I applied each with a tapered brush - the Elf Small Tapered Brush - and was impressed with the glow of each.  The Small Tapered Brush is great for laying down product but also blending it out.  I love the point and the density and find it perfect for highlighting in general.  For a more subtle look either the Elf Illuminating palette or the shade Dim Light could be used but the Elf palette can be built up to give a bolder look.  For a bright pop the Manizer Sisters and the shades Incandescent and Radiant light are perfect.

Wear Time

I was impressed with the wear time of all of these.  I can get a little bit longer wear from the Ambient  Lighting Palette but both the Elf Illuminating Palette and the Manizer Sisters lasted a good amount of time.  I would say for the latter two I'd still notice the highlight about 4 hours into the day but I did notice the Ambient Palette to stay slightly longer.

The Manizer Sisters Swatches

I do like using the Manizer Sisters palette as an eyeshadow as well and I notice that the more concentrated the color is the longer it is visible.

I wear a full face of liquid foundation and a setting powder everyday and found that this canvas worked well with these powders.  The texture of the Ambient Lighting Palette and the Elf Illuminating palette allows for blend-ability - meaning you'd get a more even glow with less work.  These powders are able to blend into the skin more evenly with less effort creating that tale tell lit from within glow.  The Manizer Sisters palette takes a little more effort (save the Cindy-Lou Manzier) to get a clean, even application.  It's not terrible - because I really do love all three of these palettes) just in comparison I find this palette take more work.

The Elf Illuminating Palette Swatches

Overall Impressions and Recommendations

Honestly, I would recommend all of these palettes.  However, if you are looking to only spend $6 you will get your money's worth in the Elf Illuminating palette.  While you can tell by the swatches that there are comparable shades in each palette, I would not say that any are dupes.  If you have $58 to spend, do go ahead and pick up the Ambient Lighting Palette.  (Better yet, see if Santa will pick it up for you!)  All in all I am most impressed with the quality of the Elf Illuminating palette - every other one lives up to the price tag, but the drugstore equivalent really gets me!

If you are thinking about getting some of these, don't forget to check out Ebates to see if you can get any cash back on your purchases!  Currently, as I'm typing this - Elf has 5.5% cash back, Nordstrom has 6% cash back (you can find Hourglass and Mac on the Nordstrom site), and Khols has 6% cash back.  That's pretty awesome.  Don't forget that Black Friday is also coming up!

You can sign up for Ebates here to earn cash back on your purchases - seriously, there's no catch!

Do you have a drugstore alternative to a high end product that blew you away?  Have you tried any of these?

xoxo, Moe