Beautymarked16

Ins and Outs No. 1

2010-06-01T19:28:00.000-07:00

So I have not done a blog post in forever, mainly due to the lack of photoshop on my computer. My previous computer got zapped in a thunderstorm so I no longer have photoshop at my disposal, and since I have been spoiled I have no idea how to edit my pictures without it. But, c'est la vie. I have a new computer now and I sincerely hope nothing happens to this one or I am up sh*t creek, as they say.

I got this ins/outs idea from lollipop26. I've read a few of hers and I enjoy them so I thought I would give it a shot. Here goes!

INS

Bronzer- Cliche for summer, I know, but in particular I like matte bronzers. I use them to contour slightly and then I use a shimmery blush to add contrast to my face. It turns out very pretty I think. My favorite bronzer (found it on my 3rd try too) is NARS Irresisteblement. I don't honestly understand why everyone thinks Laguna is such a great color for pale skin... it's ridiculously dark. Irresisteblement also adds warmth to the face which I think it good for summer too.

Skipping a day between shampooings- I used to never EVER go a single day without washing my hair. And I mean EVER. I would spend the night at the house of someone I barely knew and would ask to be allowed to take a shower so I could wash my hair. I was religious about it. Now though, I know that it can be good for your hair to skip a day every once in awhile. Letting the oils that occur naturally on your scalp absorb for an extra day helps your hair stay super soft and it makes my scalp feel nice and moisturized, which is nice since (if you have been watching my videos) I've had some issues with dryness recently. I also discovered dry shampoo. I haven't quite mastered it yet, but I'll keep practicing. ;)

Naked Nails- This time last year I painted my nails at least once a week if not more. I accumulated quite a few pretty polishes and I do still love them. I just got out of the habit during the school year because of how busy I was and one other thing... my nails start to flake and peel if I paint them too much. They also yellow a bit, but I think that just comes with the territory. If anyone knows of a good base coat to prevent this please let me know... the OPI one causes the flaking.

Salad- In the summer I go from warm foods to cool foods. I also used to hate salad, but now I love it. I'm something of a foodie as well so it's fun for me to make up new salads and see how they taste, usually a combination of a meat and a few other veggies and possibly a cheese. I find myself going back to southwestern style most often, with black beans, salsa, corn, cheese, and chicken. I highly recommend it. Salsa is a good way to go if you want to cut back calories and fat by skipping salad dressing, but you still want some extra flavor.

Sleeping late- It's summer. I like sleep.

OUTS

Waking up early- See above.

Soups/stews- Too hot for summer. I'll save them for winter.

Yellow teeth- I know my teeth aren't horrible by any means, but recently I've noticed they're looking a lot more yellow than I'd like. Can anyone recommend a good drugstore whitening system? It would be much appreciated! I know GoSmile is supposed to be good but it's also expensive.

Super frosty makeup- And when I say frosty, I mean anything that's super duper cool toned shimmery. Shimmer is still good for summer, I'm just not a fan of the silvery sheen for warm weather.

Lack of experimentation- During the year I've fallen so behind in finding time to play with makeup... I know it's just for fun but it makes me sad when I don't have time to do things I enjoy. In the past week alone since school has been over I've worn more makeup than I probably have in the past 3 months! In a good way though. I merely got around to doing a full face of makeup.

4 THINGS THAT ARE ALWAYS IN

1. Ballet! There is no season that ballet is inappropriate.

2. Exercise. It really makes a world of difference for me to get daily exercise, whether it's ballet or a gym form. I feel so much more energized and it helps me sleep better at night.

3. Drinking lots of water. Amen.

4. Eating healthy. This not only helps your weight, but it helps your skin and your mood too!

Prom Series: Green & Gold

2010-03-12T11:44:00.000-08:00

FACE

-Bare Minerals Matte Foundation- Fair
-Amazing Concealer- Fair
-NARS Blush- Orgasm

EYES

-UDPP
-MAC e/s- Brun
-CS 88 Palette- Original and Shimmer
-UD e/s- Half Baked
-MAC e/s- Blanc Type
-MAC e/s- Carbon
-UD 24/7 Liner- Honey
-UD Liquid Liner- Perversion
-Buxom Lash Mascara- Black

LIPS

-MAC l/s- Vegas Volt
-MAC Slimshine l/s- Funshine
-MAC Dazzleglass- Smile

TAG- 40 Questions

2010-03-12T08:29:00.000-08:00

This would definitely be too long for a video so I figured I would do a blog post instead! I found this tag here at Jessica/PicturesqueMakeup's blog. If you haven't seen her blog or her videos on youtube you should definitely check her out!

Ok, on with the tag!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

SKINCARE

-How many times do you wash your face daily?
Twice

-What skin type do you have? (dry,oily,combo)
Combo/Oily. It used to just be oily but since I'm getting older my skin is finally drying out a little.

-What is your current facial wash?
Philosophy Purity Made Simple

-Do you exfoliate?
Yes; I use the Clarisonic every other day at night, Clinique 7 Day Scrub Cream once a week, and my Clinique Clarifying Lotion #4 twice a day.

-What brand do you use?
Mostly Clinique.

-What moisturizer do you use?
Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel. I used the Lotion formula a little during the winter when my skin was drying out.

-Do you have freckles?
Nope

-Do you use eye cream?
I used a whole pot of Clinique All About Eyes, but now I'm using Strivectin-SD and I really like it.

-Do you or did you have acne prone skin?
I do, but it's not as bad as it used to be.

-Did you ever have to use Pro-activ?
Nope. I make a point to stay away from that stuff. I know it's worked for some but I've heard too many horror stories.

MAKE-UP
-What foundation do you use?
Bare Minerals Matte Foundation (Fair)

-How about concealer?
I used to not use concealer because I couldn't find a formula I liked, but I recently tried Amazing Concealer (Ultra Light) and I really love it.

-Do you know your undertone color?
I've found that I'm quite neutral. I think it would be a bit more on the pink side, but neutral foundation colors tend to match me best.

-What do you think of fake eyelashes?
HATE THEM WITH A PASSION. They look wonderful in makeup looks but for me they're a pain to put on and I hate feeling them when I blink... and they itch sometimes.

-Did you know that you are supposed to change your mascara every 3 months?
Erm... not so much... I know you're supposed to but it seems like such a waste of product to me. I take good care of my mascara and don't share with anyone else so I just keep it until it starts to dry out which for the kind I use is about 6 months.

-What brand of mascara do you use?
Bare Escentuals Buxom Lash in Black. The first and only mascara I've ever loved. :)

-Sephora or MAC?
Sephora

-Do you have a MAC Pro-card?
Nope. I'm a regular person.

-What makeup tools do you use in make up application?
Mostly MAC brushes just because I like some of their brushes better than Sigma's and a few of Sigma's brushes. My blush brush is from Sonia Kashuk and I've loved it forever.

-Do you use make-up base/primer for the eyes?
Always! UDPP Original and sometimes also a MAC Paint Pot.

-For the face?
Never tried one.

-What is your favorite eyeshadow (color or shade)?
Urban Decay Sellout. The best neutral shade for my face. It makes me look nice and awake.

-Do you use pencil or liquid eyeliner?
Usually pencil just because it's faster. My favorite is UD 24/7 in Bourbon.

-How often do you poke your eyes with an eyeliner pencil?
Never

-What do you think of pigment eyeshadows?
I love them! They can be messy but I love having high pigmentation without having to work a ton with the eyeshadow to get it.

-Do you use mineral makeup?
Yep. My foundation is Bare Minerals!

-What is your favorite lipstick?
I'm not a huge lipstick person on a day to day basis, but I do love Lancome's L'Absolute Rouge in Voile de Rose, MAC's lipstick in Hue, and NARS's lipstick in Manhunt and Barbarella.

-How about lipgloss?
MAC's Underage and NARS Turkish Delight.

-What is your favorite blush to use?
Bare Minerals Allover Face Color in Clear Radiance or NARS Orgasm. (typical, I know but such a lovely color)

-Do you buy your makeup on ebay?
Nope, never have.

-Do you like drugstore makeup?
Not really... I prefer quality over quantity. I know you can find some good stuff in drugstores but I'd still choose something I know is going to be high quality.

-Do you go to CCO's? (cosmetic company outlets)
I've always wanted to go to one... they look amazing.

-Did you ever consider taking make-up classes?
I would like to just to learn something new but I never have.

-Are you clumsy in putting on makeup?
I'm always very very careful and if I accidentally pinch or poke someone I apologize immediately! On myself I've gotten pretty good at it and I know how to put on makeup so I don't hurt myself.

-Name a makeup crime that you hate?
foundation lines! Aaaaah!!!! When the Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse first came out a bunch of girls at school thought it was the best thing ever but the shade never matched their skintone! It made me crazy!

-Do you like colorful shades of makeup (lipstick,eyeshadow) or neutral ones?
I like neutral shades on the eyes and I often find it fun to play with bold lips even though I'll rarely wear them out.

-Which celebrity always has great make up?
Kim Kardashian, Kiera Knightly, Rihanna. Lady Gaga is always fun to see what craziness she'll come up with next.

-If you could leave the house using just ONE make up item,what would you use?
Powder foundation. Or maybe blush... I do love blush...

-Could you ever leave the house without any makeup on?
I could but I don't usually unless I'm sick and I don't care what I look like.

-Do you think you look good even without any makeup on?
I like the way I look without makeup. I find it refreshing to just be looking at skin instead of skin + powder, etc. I do like that foundation evens out my skin and covers any acne scars, but I really love days when I don't have to put on makeup.

-In your opinion, what is the BEST makeup line?
Hmm... this is an impossible question. My two favorites would be NARS and Urban Decay, although MAC is very good because it has a wide range of shades in everything.

-What do you think of Makeup?
I love it! I think it's a way to help women feel more confident about how they look, and if you feel more confident you'll act more confident and in today's world I think everyone needs a bit more of that. I also love the artistic aspect of it because it's a form of art that not everyone thinks of as traditional 'art.'

Prom Series: Blue and Silver

2010-02-13T09:42:00.000-08:00

FACE

-Bare Minerals Matte Foundation- Fair
-MAC Studio Sculpt Concealer- NW15
-NARS blush- Desire

EYES

-UDPP
-Stila Smudge Pot- Cobalt Clutch
-UD e/s- Kiddie Pool
-Covergirl Quad- Tropical Fusion (?), dark blue
-CS 88 Original Palette- darkest blue
-UD e/s- Oil Slick
-Ben Nye Cream Color- White
-MAC e/s- Gesso
-UD Liquid Liner- Perversion
-UD 24/7 Pencil- Zero
-LA Splash glitter liner- Huntington Silver
-MAC p/g- Pink Opal

LIPS

-Lancome Juicy Tubes- Miracle
-CS 88 Original Palette- light blue pink

Job Interview Makeup: For the Expert

2010-02-09T16:37:00.000-08:00

FACE

-Bare Minerals Matte Foundation- Fair
-Bare Escentuals Allover Face Color- Clear Radiance
-NARS bronzer- Irresisteblement

EYES

-UDPP
-MAC Paintpot- Painterly
-UD Deluxe Eyeshadow- Ruthless
-NARS e/s duo- Portobello (darker shade)
-MAC e/s- Brun
-MAC e/s- Blanc Type
-Stila Smudge Pot- Brown
-Buxom Lash Mascara- Black

The Blue Brown Experiment

2010-01-13T18:20:00.000-08:00

FACE

-id Bare Minerals Matte Foundation- Fair
-MAC blush- Eversun
-NARS bronzer- Irresisteblement
-Clinique Allover Luster Color Rub

EYES

-UDPP
-Ben Nye Cream Color- White
-Stila Smudge Pot- Cobalt Clutch (LE)
-Stila Smudge Pot- Brown
-MAC pigment- Blue Brown
-MAC e/s- Blanc Type
-Buxom Lash Mascara- Black

LIPS

-MAC lipstick- Brave New Bronze (LE)
-MAC Dazzleglass- Smile

Sweet and Sexy Pink

2010-01-03T12:12:00.000-08:00

FACE

-id Bare Minerals Matte Foundation- Fair
-Clinique Concealer
-NARS blush- Desire

EYES

-UDPP
-MAC Paint Pot- Painterly
-MAC Pigment- Kitschmas
-MAC Pigment- Fuschia
-UD e/s- Last Call
-MAC e/s- Beautymarked
-MAC e/s- Gesso
-MAC Pigment- Pink Opal
-MAC Pigment- Deep Blue Green
-UD 24/7 Liner- Zero
-Buxom Lash Mascara- Black

LIPS

-L'Oreal HIP Jellybalm- Plush
-MAC Pigment- Pink Opal

Rock Candy

2009-12-25T19:34:00.000-08:00

Rock Candy by Essie

This is, as Temptalia described it, "a typical Essie sheer." I love sheer nail polishes. I think they make my nails look very clean and sophisticated without being in your face. This is a sheer milky pink, and you'd even need another coat if you wanted most people to notice you were wearing a color at all. This is definitely appropriate for work (especially since I'm not allowed to wear nail polish to work... at least a color they'll notice. Muahahaha!) and a good color for anyone who doesn't want to look like they've painted their nails.

Unlike some of Essie's sheer polishes, this one was not streaky even on the first coat alone. Me gusta mucho. This is my new love for natural looking nails.

This was part of Essie's 2009 Christmas collection.

Photo taken inside, no natural light.

This is:

-1 coat OPI Nail Envy
-2 coats Rock Candy by Essie
-1 coat Seche Vite topcoat

Mint Candy Apple

2009-12-25T19:22:00.000-08:00

Mint Candy Apple by Essie

This is such an amazing color! There have been a few shades released recently that are similiar, the most popular probably being MAC's Peppermint Patty. I'm not a huge fan of MAC nail polishes so I didn't get that, but I do love Essie! The first coat went on a bit streaky, but everything evened out by the second. I did a thin first coat and a slightly thicker second coat. This lasted several days with no chipping (aside from my two nails that always chip because I'm convinced they just hate nail polish of all types) and only a small amount of tipwear. This was taken after about 3 days of wear.

The color is a creamy pastel light green with a strong blue undertone. One of my friends was convinced that this was blue, not green but to me it looks more green. A very unique color and I love love love it.

This was part of Essie's 2009 Christmas collection.

Photo was taken indoors, no natural light.

This is:

-1 coat OPI Nail Envy
-2 coats Mint Candy Apple by Essie
-1 coat Seche Vite topcoat

Dark Opal

2009-12-25T17:12:00.000-08:00

FACE

-id Bare Minerals Matte Foundation- Fair
-NARS blush- Desire
-MAC pigment- Pink Opal

EYES

-UDPP
-MAC Paint Pot- Painterly
-MAC pigment- Pink Opal
-Raving Beauty Cosmetics e/s- Spring Violet
-UD Deluxe e/s- Frigid
-MAC pigment- Deep Blue Green
-MAC e/s- Gesso
-Stila Eye Kajal- Onyx
-MAC Reflects Transparent Teal Glitter
-Buxom Lash Mascara- Black

LIPS

-L'Oreal Hip Jellybalm- Plush
-MAC pigment- Pink Opal

November Favorites

2009-12-13T11:58:00.000-08:00

Products Mentioned:

-Philosophy Purity Cleanser
-Clinique Clarifying Lotion 4
-Lush Ocean Salt Exfoliator
-Lush Honey Trap Lip Balm
-Philosophy Unconditional Love Eau de Toilette (sample)
-UD 24/7 eyeliner pencil- Ransom
-MAC Fluidline- Macroviolet
-NARS e/s duo- Eurydice
-Sonia Kashuk Blusher Brush

Sephora Haul!

2009-12-13T11:47:00.000-08:00

Products Mentioned:

-NARS lipstick- Manhunt
-NARS Bronzer- Irresisteblement
-NARS e/s duo- Eurydice
-UD 24/7 eyeliner pencil- Yeyo
-id Bare Minerals Allover Face Color- Clear Radiance
-Sephora clutch with samples

Holiday Look

2009-11-19T19:23:00.000-08:00

FACE
-Bare Minerals Matte Foundation- Fair
-NARS Bronzer- Irresisteblement

EYES

-MAC Paint Pot- Rubenesque
-L'Oreal Wear Infinite e/s quad- Earthscape
-Stila Kajal Eye Liner- Onyx
-Buxom Lash Mascara- Black

LIPS

-NARS lipstick- Manhunt

LUSH Haul

2009-11-19T19:18:00.000-08:00

Products Mentioned:

-Sexy Peel Soap
-Honey I Washed the Kids Soap
-Honey Trap Lip Balm
-Snowshowers Shower Jelly

Soft Pink and Purple

2009-11-08T15:34:00.000-08:00

FACE

-id Bare Minerals Matte Foundation- Fair
-MAC blush- On A Mission (LE)

EYES

-UDPP
-MAC Paint Pot- Painterly
-UD e/s- Sellout
-MAC e/s- Lotusland
-MAC e/s- Satellite Dreams
-MAC pigment- Circa Plum
-NARS e/s duo- Habanera
-MAC e/s- Blanc Type
-UD 24/7 Liner- Zero
-Buxom Lash Mascara- Black

LIPS

-MAC Lipglass- Underage

October Favorites

2009-11-05T19:33:00.000-08:00

Products Mentioned:

-Bare Minerals Matte Foundation- Fair
-Lush Honey Trap Lip Balm
-Lush Honey I Washed The Kids Soap
-NARS e/s duo- Habanera (dark purple)
-MAC Bronzing Powder- Solar Riche (LE)
-Buxom Lash Mascara

Grecian Goddess Halloween Tutorial

2009-10-26T19:54:00.000-07:00

FACE

-MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural- Light
-MAC Bronzing Powder- Solar Riche (LE)
-MAC blush- Springsheen

EYES

-MAC Paint Pot- Painterly
-UD e/s- Half Baked
-UD e/s- Twice Baked
-MAC e/s- Blanc Type
-UD 24/7 Liner- Deviant
-MAC e/s- Clarity
-MAC pigment- Mutiny (LE)
-CS 88 Shimmer Palette
-MAC e/s- Crystal Avalanche (optional highlight above the blue)
-L'Oreal Lineur Intense Liquid Liner- Carbon Black
-UD 24/7 Liner- Honey
-UD e/s- Flipside
-Buxom Lash Mascara- Black

LIPS

-MAC lipstick- Brave New Bronze (LE)
-CS 88 Shimmer Palette
-MAC Dazzleglass- Smile

Natural Neutral Eye

2009-10-26T19:41:00.000-07:00

FACE

-MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural- Light
-Clinique Acne Solutions Concealer
-i.d. Bare Minerals Allover Face Color- Clear Radiance

EYES

-UDPP
-MAC Paint Pot- Painterly
-UD e/s- Sellout
-NARS e/s- Cairo
-UD e/s- YDK
-UD 24/7 Liner- Bourbon
-Buxom Lash Mascara- Black

LIPS

-Stila SPF 20 Shine Lip Color- Sarah

Depression Awareness Month & Green Smokey Eye

2009-10-08T15:15:00.000-07:00

Many people know that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but very few know that it's also Depression Awareness Month. I was inspired by Scrangie to do this post and video. Thanks Scrangie. :) If it weren't for you I wouldn't have known about this.

To visit the website for To Write Love On Her Arms (TWLOHA) and read about their story and vision click here. If you know someone/have ever known someone suffering from depression or any related issues please check out their site! It's really inspiring and offers great ideas for helping those going through a bad time in life.

Here are some statistics Scrangie posted on depression from Uplift Program that I mention in my video:

Depressive disorders affect approximately 18.8 million American adults or about 9.5% of the U.S. population age 18 and older in a given year. This includes major depressive disorder, dysthymic disorder, and bipolar disorder.
Everyone, will at some time in their life be affected by depression -- their own or someone else's, according to Australian Government statistics. (Depression statistics in Australia are comparable to those of the US and UK.)
Pre-schoolers are the fastest-growing market for antidepressants. At least four percent of preschoolers -- over a million -- are clinically depressed.
The rate of increase of depression among children is an astounding 23% p.a.
15% of the population of most developed countries suffers severe depression.
30% of women are depressed. Men's figures were previously thought to be half that of women, but new estimates are higher.
54% of people believe depression is a personal weakness.
41% of depressed women are too embarrassed to seek help.
80% of depressed people are not currently having any treatment.
92% of depressed African-American males do not seek treatment.
15% of depressed people will commit suicide.
Depression will be the second largest killer after heart disease by 2020 -- and studies show depression is a contributory factor to fatal coronary disease.
Depression results in more absenteeism than almost any other physical disorder and costs employers more than US$51 billion per year in absenteeism and lost productivity, not including high medical and pharmaceutical bills.
Antidepressants work for 35 to 45% of the depressed population, while more recent figures suggest as low as 30%.
Standard antipressants, SSRIs such as Prozac, Paxil (Aropax) and Zoloft, have recently been revealed to have serious risks, and are linked to suicide, violence, psychosis, abnormal bleeding and brain tumors.
Government (FDA) warnings highlight concerns over the efficacy and use of antidepressants in children. Antidepressants with the exception of Prozac have been banned in Britain for children. The BMJ recently reported they found no scientific evidence whatsoever that SSRIs work for preschoolers (or for anyone under eighteen).
Antidepressants (particularly SSRIs) work only as well (or less) than placebos.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has an 80% relapse rate in the long term.
Physiological problems, plus learned beliefs and behaviors, make functional decisions difficult, and the results reinforce the depression in a vicious cycle.
Depression can “somatize,” or become expressed in the body.
80% of people who see physicians are depressed.
Studies are increasingly linking more illnesses to depression, including: osteoporosis, diabetes, heart disease, some forms of cancer, eye disease and back pain.

Some of the symptoms of depression in adults are:

Persistent sad or "empty" mood.
Feeling hopeless, helpless, worthless, pessimistic and/or guilty.
Substance abuse.
Fatigue or loss of interest in ordinary activities, including sex.
Disturbances in eating and sleeping patterns.
Irritability, increased crying, anxiety or panic attacks.
Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions.
Thoughts of suicide; suicide plans or attempts.
Persistent physical symptoms or pains that do not respond to treatment.

(From SAVE.org)

To visit Scrangie's blog post click here.

And finally, here are the products and pictures from my video:

FACE

-MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural- Light
-MAC blush- Springsheen

EYES

-UDPP
-Stila Kajal Eye Liner- Onyx
-CS 88 Shimmer Palette
-MAC e/s- Blanc Type
-UD Liquid Liner- Perversion
-UD 24/7 Eye Liner- Zero
-Buxom Lash Mascara- Black

LIPS

-MAC Slimshine Lipstick- Funshine

NAILS

-OPI n/p- Yoga-to Get This Blue!

Fade Acne Scars!

2009-10-05T15:26:00.000-07:00

I love this stuff to death! I've used (almost) 2 bottles of it and it really helps with my acne scarring. I've tried a couple of other products, one from Clinique's acne line, with no real results. While this doesn't make my skin picture perfect, it does significantly help with unevenness and dark spots from acne and (I would imagine) sun damage. This product is also suitable for all skin tones from light to dark.

NOTE: Be sure to use sunscreen with this! The active ingredients in this serum make your skin more susceptible to sun damage.

Clinique Even Better Skin Tone Corrector, $39.50 @ clinique.com

September 2009 Favorites

2009-10-02T11:56:00.000-07:00

Products Mentioned:

-i.d. Bare Minerals Allover Face Color- Clear Radiance
-MAC Paint Pot- Bare Study
-UD e/s- Sellout
-NARS e/s single- Cairo
-NARS e/s duo- Habanera
-MAC 217 brush
-Sigma SS224 brush
-Stila SPF 20 Lip Shine- Sarah
-OPI n/p- Lincoln Park After Dark
-OPI n/p- Strawberry Daquiri

Barbie Loves Stila Smudge Pots!

2009-09-27T09:34:00.000-07:00

I am soooo in love with these liners! They're all so pretty and so unique with the added perk of them being the Stila Smudge Pot formula that I adore so much.

Products Mentioned:

Cobalt Clutch, $20 @ stilacosmetics.com

Purple Pumps, $20 @ stilacosmetics.com

Little Black Dress, $20 @ stilacosmetics.com

SPF 20 Shine Lip Color, $22 @ stilacosmetics.com

OPI n/p- Lincoln Park After Dark, Royal Rajah Ruby

Katy Perry's "Waking Up in Vegas" Inspired

2009-09-13T20:38:00.000-07:00

FACE

-MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural- Light
-MAC Studio Sculpt Concealer- NW15
-MAC blush- Springsheen

EYES

-MAC Paint Pot- Painterly
-Ben Nye Cream Color- White
-MAC e/s- Electra
-MAC e/s- Smoke & Diamonds
-L'Oreal Hip Duo- Platinum
-MAC e/s- Carbon
-MAC e/s- Blanc Type
-MAC e/s- Crystal Avalanche
-Stila Kajal Eye Liner- Onyx
-UD Liquid Liner- Perversion
-L.A. Splash glitter liner- Huntington Silver
-craft glitter
-Buxom Lash Mascara- Black
-MUFE False Lashes- #14

LIPS

-MAC lipstick- Vegas Volt

NAILS

-OPI n/p- Miami Beet

Faded Copper Eyes

2009-09-13T11:54:00.000-07:00

FACE

-MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural- Light
-MAC Studio Sculpt Concealer- NW15
-MAC blush- Eversun (LE)

EYES

-MAC Paintpot- Rubenesque
-Shadow Sample from Coastal Scents- Moroccan
-CoverGirl quad- Hot Cider
-CoverGirl quad- Creme Fraiche
-MAC e/s- Crystal Avalanche
-MAC e/s- Coppering
-UD 24/7 Liner- Honey
-UD 27/7 Liner- Zero
-UD Liquid Liner- Perversion
-Buxom Lash Mascara- Black

LIPS

-MAC lipstick- Brave New Bronze (LE)
-Clinique lipstick- Bronze Star

NAILS

-OPI n/p- Miami Beet

Urban Decay Haul

2009-09-03T18:28:00.000-07:00

Products I got:

-Primer Potion
-24/7 Eyeliners- Zero, Bourbon, Ransom, Deviant
-Liquid Eyeliner- Perversion (loveness!)
-Eyeshadows- Sellout, YDK

Wow... that really doesn't look like much. I've used the eyeshadows and Bourbon almost daily since I got them for a really nice fresh and neutral look. I am so in love with Urban Decay... *sigh*

Sephora Lashstash No. 1

2009-09-01T18:32:00.000-07:00

Anastasia Lash Lifting Mascara, $22 @ sephora.com

"Lash Lifting Mascara
What it is:
A multi-effect volume mascara that is formulated with hard waxes and synthetic polymers.

What it does:
Anastasia Lash Lifting Mascara thickens and curls lashes with one stroke! The formula contains hard waxes to build lashes and synthetic polymers to give them body and volume. The rich and creamy formula conditions lashes and an elastic veil helps mascara adhere to lashes without clumping.

What else you need to know:
This product is dermatologist-tested and hypoallergenic."

My thoughts: An excellent everyday mascara, easy to apply and free of clumps.
My overall rating: 8/10

Bare Escentuals Buxom Lash, $18 @ sephora.com

"What it is:
A paraben-free, lash-volumizing mascara.

What it does:
Bare Escentuals Buxom® Lash Mascara - Blackest Black holds the style of your lashes for a continuous 12 hours with no flakiness. The silky, vitamin-rich formula darkens, lengthens, and thickens from root to tip without ever clumping. Its patented, hourglass-shaped brush is designed to lift and separate every lash while delivering the perfect amount of antioxidant-rich mascara needed for bigger, fuller lashes.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Synthetic Fragrances
- Synthetic Dyes
- Phthalates

What else you need to know:
It Intensely volumizes lashes up to 300%."

My thoughts: An excellent dramatic mascara, or a good everyday mascara for those with short lashes. Very black, very volumizing.
My overall rating: 9.5/10 (I only give it a 9.5 because it's not my all time favorite mascara)

Smashbox Bionic Mascara, $19 @ sephora.com

"Bionic Mascara
What it is:
An innovative ionic mascara.

What it does:
Smashbox Bionic is the first ionic mascara—it will leave you with longer, stronger, and more voluminous lashes! The specially-engineered brush coats lashes with our revolutionary long-wearing, water-resistant formula for a dramatic full lash. Aloe, silk, and wheat protein strengthen and condition."

My thoughts: AWESOME stuff. Great for everyday, buildable for more dramatic looks. Clump free and flake free. Very black. Wonderful brush.
My overall rating: 10/10 (W00T! Fav mascara.)

*all descriptions and prices are from sephora.com

Fresh Berry Lips: Fall Trend '09 Inspired

2009-08-26T19:59:00.001-07:00

FACE

-MAC Studio Sculpt Concealer- NW15
-MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural- Light
-MAC blush- Gingerly

EYES

-MAC Paint Pot- Painterly
-NARS e/s duo- Portobello
-MAC e/s- Blanc Type
-MAC e/s- Crystal Avalanche
-UD Liquid Liner- Perversion
-UD 24/7 Glide On Pencil- Zero
-Buxom Lash- Black

LIPS

-MAC Lipstick- Hang-Up

Back To School: I'm Late!

2009-08-26T19:43:00.000-07:00

FACE

-MAC Studio Sculpt Concealer- NW15
-MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural- Light
-i.d. Bare Minerals Allover Face Color- Clear Radiance

EYES

-UDPP
-MAC Paint Pot- Bare Study
-Clinique Color Surge e/s duo- Buttered Bronze
-MAC e/s- Blanc Type
-Clinique Cream Shaper for Eyes- Brown Sugar
-Smashbox Bionic Mascara- Black

LIPS

-MAC Tendertone- Honey Bare

Back To School: Smokey Purple & Taupe

2009-08-12T18:48:00.000-07:00

FACE

-MAC Studio Sculpt Concealer- NW15
-MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural- Light
-i.d. Bare Minerals Allover Face Color- Clear Radiance
-MAC Bronzing Powder- Solar Riche (LE)

EYES

-UDPP
-MAC Paint Pot- Rubenesque
-UD e/s- YDK
-NARS e/s duo- Habanera
-MAC e/s- Sketch
-MAC e/s- Blanc Type
-Stila Kajal Eye Liner- Onyx
-Smashbox Bionic Mascara- Black

LIPS

-MAC Tendertone- Honey Bare

Perfect Red Lip

2009-08-11T20:48:00.000-07:00

LIPS

-Mary Kay Satin Lips- Lip Treatment
-Burt's Bees Pomegranate Lip Balm
-MAC lipliner- Cherry
-MAC lipstick- Ruby Woo
-C.O. Bigelow Mentha Shine Lipgloss- Double Chocolate Shake
-MAC 316 lip brush

(MASSIVE) Birthday Haul

2009-08-09T21:16:00.000-07:00

Products Mentioned:

-Sephora Bath & Shower Bubbles- Vanilla Cupcake
-Stila Kajal Eye Liner- Onyx
-Sephora Lashstash (LE)
-NARS e/s single- Cairo
-NARS e/s duo- Portobello
-NARS e/s duo- Habanera
-MAC e/s- Electra
-MAC e/s- Smoke & Diamonds
-B&BW Body Lotion, Shower Gel, Bath Bubbles- Vanilla Noir
-Lancome Mineral Powder Foundation Brush
-Sonia Kashuk Spoolie
-Sonia Kashuk Lash Comb
-MAC lipliner- Nightmoth, Cherry
-MAC lipstick- Underworld, Vegas Volt, Ruby Woo, Hang-Up

Products I should have mentioned:

-MAC 316 lip brush
-OPI n/p- Makes Men Blush, Black Onyx, Cajun Shrimp

Underworld Inspired

2009-08-08T22:12:00.000-07:00

FACE

-MAC Studio Sculpt Concealer- NW15
-MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural- Light
-Ben Nye Cream Color- White
-Clinique e/s- Bewitched

EYES

-MAC Paint Pot- Painterly
-MAC e/s- Smoke & Diamonds
-MAC e/s- Beauty Marked
-MAC e/s- Carbon
-MAC e/s- Blanc Type
-MAC lipliner- Nightmoth
-Clinique Kohl Shaper for Eyes- Black Kohl
-Clinique Lash Doubling Mascara- Black

LIPS

-MAC lipliner- Nightmoth
-MAC lipstick- Underworld

Sex Divide

2009-08-06T23:33:00.000-07:00

Sex Divide by Essie

This is hands down the BEST purple nail polish ever. It has a slight pinky purple and purple shimmer to it that shows up in the sunlight. It's beautiful! I'm such a purple person...

This is two coats. I'm also trying out a new topcoat from Essie (Good to Go!) and so far I like it a lot.

Classic Smokey Eye

2009-08-02T22:24:00.000-07:00

FACE

-MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural- Light
-MAC Studio Sculpt Concealer- NW15
-MAC blush- Springsheen

EYES

-UDPP
-MAC Paint Pot- Painterly
-MAC e/s- Smoke & Diamonds (LE)
-CS 88 Palette
-UD e/s- Oil Slick
-MAC e/s- Crystal Avalanche
-MAC e/s- Blanc Type
-Clinique Kohl Shaper for Eyes- Black Kohl
-Clinique Lash Doubling Mascara- Black

LIPS
-Lancome lipstick- Coquette

NAILS

-Essie n/p- Ballet Slippers

Makes Men Blush

2009-08-02T21:33:00.000-07:00

Makes Men Blush by OPI

The pictures don't show it quite as well as I'd like them too, but this is a sheer creamy pink polish with a pink iridescence. The iridescence is gorgeous. I really love this for everyday wear.

Jareth (Goblin King) Inspired

2009-08-02T21:17:00.000-07:00

I had the idea for this when I was searching for a video for Past the Point of No Return from Phantom of the Opera and for some reason a video using Labyrinth clips popped up. Having seen the Labyrinth (and adoring it) I clicked on it and started looked more closely at Jareth's makeup. Originally I thought I could use it for Elle's (allthatglitters21) contest but I was a day late. Nonetheless, here is my recreation! Not the best I know but it sure was fun. :)

Angel Eyes

2009-08-01T19:33:00.000-07:00

FACE

-MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural- Light
-MAC Studio Sculpt Concealer- NW15
-i.d. Bare Minerals Allover Color- Clear Radiance
-Revlon Skinlights- Natural Light
-PF Bronze Booster- Light to Medium

EYES

-UDDP
-MAC Paint Pot- Painterly
-Ben Nye Cream Color- White
-Raving Beauty Cosmetics e/s- Spring Violet
-Estee Lauder Tom Ford Collection e/s duo- lighter brown
-MAC e/s- Blanc Type
-MAC e/s- Crystal Avalanche
-Rimmel Soft Kohl Kajal Eye Liner Pencil- Soft White
-Clinique Lash Doubling Mascara- Black

LIPS

-lip balm

Birthday Look

2009-07-27T11:10:00.000-07:00

FACE

-MAC Studio Sculpt Concealer- NW15
-MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural- Light
-MAC blush- On A Mission (LE)
-MAC Bronzing Powder- Solar Riche (LE)

EYES

-UDDP
-MAC Paint Pot- Painterly
-Clinique Color Surge Duo- Plum Potion
-MAC e/s- Crystal Avalanche
-MAC e/s- Carbon
-MAC Fluidline- Macroviolet
-Clinique Cream Shaper for Eyes- Starry Plum
-Clinique Lash Doubling Mascara- Black

LIPS

-MAC Lipglass- Underage

*My counter got in the way, but there's the full dress... I'm pretty short so it's long on me.

*dress detail close up

On Wings Of Purple

2009-07-24T10:11:00.000-07:00

FACE

-MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural- Light
-Revlon Skinlights- 01 Natural Light
-Physician's Formula Bronze Booster- Light to Medium

EYES

-MAC Paint Pot- Painterly
-MAC Fluidline- Macroviolet
-Raving Beauty Cosmetics e/s- Spring Violet
-Raving Beauty Cosmetics e/s- Grape Soda
-Clinique Kohl Shaper for Eyes- Black Kohl

MAC Fluidline vs. Stila Smudge Pots

2009-07-24T10:02:00.000-07:00

MAC Fluidline

-Macroviolet
-0.3 fl oz
-$16.50 @ maccosmetics.com
-thinner, more gel like consistency

Stila Smudge Pots

-Brown
-0.4 fl oz
-$20 @ sephora.com
-thicker, creamier consistency

MAC Fibre Rich Lash

2009-07-23T10:36:00.000-07:00

MAC Fibre Rich Lash Mascara- $12

Lengthening? Yes, very
Volumizing? Yes, an average amount
Separating? Yes, very much
Clumping? Sometimes, I think due to the fibers in the formula. It's more like getting little clumps of fibers on your lashes rather than making your lashes stick together.
Everyday/Dramatic? Everyday, could be layered for more drama
Flaking? Very very rarely... if I'm wearing it a long time there will sometimes be little fiber specks that fall out.
Scent? Yes, very light
Overall Rating? 8.5/10

Avant Garde Green

2009-07-13T22:38:00.000-07:00

FACE

-MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural- Light
-MAC blush- Springsheen
-Physician's Formula Bronze Booster- Light to Medium

EYES

-MAC Paintpot- Painterly
-CS 88 Ultra Shimmer Palette
-Loreal Carbon Liquid Lineur Intense- Carbon Black
-LA Splash Glitter Liner- Golden Abalone
-UD 24/7 Eyeliner- Honey
-Clinique Lash Doubling Mascara- Black

LIPS

-Clinique lipstick- A Different Grape
-Tony & Tina lipgloss- Cosmic Enchantress (*discontinued, suggested dupe MAC Dazzleglass in Date Night)

Parisian Smokey Eye

2009-07-09T20:08:00.000-07:00

FACE

-MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural- Light
-MAC Studio Sculpt Concealer- NW15
-MAC blush- Eversun (LE)
-MAC blush- Springsheen
-MAC Bronzing Powder- Solar Riche (LE)

EYES

-UDDP
-MAC Paintpot- Rubenesque
-UD e/s- YDK
-UD e/s- Twice Baked
-UD e/s- Oil Slick
-UD e/s- Midnight Cowboy Rides Again
-MAC e/s- Blanc Type
-Clinique Kohl Shaper for Eyes- Black Kohl
-UD 24/7 Eyeliner- Honey
-Clinique Lash Doubling Mascara- Black

LIPS

-MAC Lipglass- Underage

NAILS

-OPI n/p- Lincoln Park At Midnight

All About Acne

2009-07-07T23:25:00.000-07:00

PRODUCTS MENTIONED

-Alcohol
-Witch Hazel
-Clearasil Ultra Rapid Action Treatment Cream
-Clean & Clear Advantage Spot Treatment
-Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel
-Clinique 7 Day Scrub Cream
-Clinique Clarifying Lotion IV
-Clinique City Block SPF 40
-Clinique Superdefense SPF 25- Normal to Oily
-Clinique Liquid Facial Soap- Normal to Oily
-Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque

NAILS

-Lincoln Park At Midnight by OPI

Midnight In Moscow

2009-07-07T19:22:00.000-07:00

*With flash attempting to show the red shimmer

Midnight In Moscow by OPI

The first time I put this on I was hesitant about whether I would like it or not. On the first coat it comes out as a sheer black with deep red glitter and is rather transparent. After a second coat though, it was nicely opaque but the polish still looked kind of brownish black to me from a distance. I think the only reason I fell in love with this color was that I discovered when you turn your nails in the light, it gives off the most gorgeous red wine glow EVER. It's beautiful! Thumbs up for a unique color.

This is:
-2 coats Nail Envy
-2 coats Midnight In Moscow by OPI
-1 coat OPI Topcoat
-OPI Drip Dry

Electric Blue Eyes

2009-07-03T20:08:00.000-07:00

FACE

-MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural- Light
-MAC Studio Sculpt Concealer- NW15
-MAC blush- Enough Said
-MAC blush- Springsheen

EYES

-Estee Lauder Artist's Eye Pencil- Softsmudge Black
-MAC e/s- Carbon
-MAC e/s- Brun
-MAC e/s- Clarity
-MAC pigment- Mutiny
-MAC e/s- Blanc Type
-MAC e/s- Crystal Avalanche
-CS 88 Palette- dark purple blue
-Clinique Kohl Shaper for Eyes- Black Kohl
-Clinique Lash Doubling Mascara- Black

LIPS

-Lancome l/s- Coquette

Nail Care, Treatments, Products, Colors

2009-06-29T22:00:00.000-07:00

Here are the pictures showing how Nail Envy worked on my nails over approximately 3 1/2 weeks:

Week 1

Week 2

Week 3(ish)

The first two sets of pics I have the Nail Envy already on, the third set is bare nails.

Circa Plum + YDK

2009-06-29T01:51:00.000-07:00

FACE

-MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural- Light
-i.d. Bare Minerals Allover Color- Clear Radiance
-MAC Bronzing Powder- Solar Riche (LE)

EYES

-UDDP
-MAC Paintpot- Painterly
-MAC pigment- Circa Plum (LE)
-UD e/s- YDK
-MAC e/s- Blanc Type
-Clinique Cream Shaper for Eyes- Brown Sugar
-MAC Fiber Rich Lash mascara- Black

LIPS

-MAC Lipglass- Underage

NAILS

-OPI n/p- Yoga-ta Get This Blue!

Yoga-ta Get This Blue!

2009-06-27T20:49:00.000-07:00

Yoga-ta Get This Blue! by OPI

After spending several hours pouring over the OPI website, I discovered this gorgeous deep blue. Something about it being "your new fashion mantra" was in the description and I think of that every time I look at my nails... I was aprehensive about trying a blue because it seems so unnatural to have blue fingers to me, but I really love it! It's nice and dark and gives a similar effect as the dark purple nail polishes I love so much.

A very deep true blue, this has a slight green and purple shimmer. I really adore the uniqueness of this shade. It's just such a perfect blue!

This is:
-2 coats Nail Envy
-2 coats Yoga-ta Get This Blue!
-1 coat OPI Topcoat
-OPI Drip Dry

Everyday Purples

2009-06-26T11:03:00.000-07:00

FACE

-Clinique Perfectly Real Compact Makeup- Shade 102 (N)
-MAC Beauty Powder Blush- On A Mission (LE)
-MAC Bronzing Powder- Solar Riche (LE)

EYES

-UDDP
-MAC Paintpot- Painterly
-Clinique Color Surge e/s duo- Plum Potion
-MAC pigment- Circa Plum (LE)
-MAC e/s- Brun
-MAC e/s- Blanc Type
-Clinique Cream Shaper for Eyes- Starry Plum
-MAC Fiber Rich Lash mascara- Black

LIPS

-Urban Decay lipstick- Sellout

NAILS

-OPI n/p- Lourve Me, Lourve Me Not

Louvre Me, Louvre Me Not

2009-06-24T22:55:00.000-07:00

Louvre Me, Louvre Me Not by OPI

The picture is actually a fairly accurate representation of the true color. It's a fuchsia-y purple with lots of pink and purple shimmer. When I first saw this polish I thought it was too loud for me, but I swatched it on some tape and heard Tiffany D say it was one of her favorite purples, and before then I was already in love with purple nail polishes anyway so I decided to go for it since it is such a fun and unique color.

This is:
-2 coats Nail Envy
-2 coats Louvre Me, Louvre Me Not
-1 coat OPI Topcoat
-OPI Drip Dry

Lincoln Park At Midnight

2009-06-23T13:20:00.000-07:00

Lincoln Park At Midnight by OPI

This is one of my favorite purple (and all time) nail polishes ever. I read about this color several years ago when dark purple nails first came into fashion. I have a MAC color that's similar (Dark Angel) and I got it because I didn't want the shimmer, but now that I have this color I love it a million times more than the MAC one (mostly because the MAC one is very thin and streaky so it requires a lot of coats). The silvery shimmer gives it a lovely dimension.

There is a cream version of this color also by OPI called Lincoln Park After Dark, which is the one that I intended to buy but I picked up this one instead because the names are so similar. I'm sure at some point I'll go back and get the cream version.

This is:
-2 coats Nail Envy
-2 coats Lincoln Park After Midnight
-OPI Topcoat
-OPI Drip Dry

Smokin' Hot Summer

2009-06-23T12:58:00.001-07:00

This is a very simple, colorful look for the hot days of summer. Using gold, yellow, and orangey red, this is sure to bring fun to any summer occasion.

FACE

-MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural- Light
-MAC Mineralize Blush- Dainty
-MAC Sheertones Blush- Harmony

EYES

-MAC Paintpot- Painterly
-MAC e/s- Bright Future (LE)
-Urban Decay e/s- Half Baked
-MAC e/s- Coppering
-Urban Decay e/s- Twice Baked
-MAC e/s- Blanc Type
-Rimmel Soft Kohl e/l- Soft White
-Clinique Kohl Shaper for Eyes e/l- Black Kohl
-MAC Fiber Rich Lash mascara- Black

LIPS

-MAC Slimshine- Funshine

California Coral

2009-06-17T17:27:00.001-07:00

California Coral by Essie

This looks like a very bright orange in the picture, but in real life it is pinker and a very pretty (and bright) color, perfect for summer!

This is:
-1 coat Nail Envy
-2 coats California Coral
-1 coat OPI Topcoat
-OPI Drip Dry

Style Warriors Inspired

2009-06-13T20:06:00.000-07:00

FACE

-Clinique Perfectly Real Compact Makeup- Shade 102 (N)
-Clinique Acne Solutions Concealer Stick- lightest shade
-MAC Beauty Powder Blush (LE)- On A Mission
-MAC Bronzing Powder (LE)- Solar Riche

EYES

-MAC Paintpot- Painterly
-MAC e/s (LE)- Bright Future
-MAC e/s- Stars n' Rockets
-MAC pigment (LE)- Mutiny
-CS 88 Original Palette- dark purple blue, shimmery white
-Tony & Tina e/s quad (discontinued brand)- Expressive Energy
-Rimmel Soft Kohl e/l- Pure White
-Clinique Kohl Shaper for Eyes e/l- Black Kohl (best black pencil liner EVER)
-MAC Fiber Rich Lash mascara- Black

LIPS

-MAC lipstick (LE)- Brave New Bronze

MAC Naked Honey

2009-06-13T19:18:00.000-07:00

Photo Credit: maccosmetics.com

Initially when I heard about this collection I was really excited. It was described as 'some skin products' and 'a lot of neutral colors' by a couple of people who follow MAC launches. Being a neutral color kind of girl, I was thinking "Yaaay! A collection of pretty neutrals!" But when I saw it in person I was disappointed.

There was a sickly heavy, sweet slightly spicy honey smell hanging around the entire collection. Hoping it was just the perfumes and body products I kept looking. I swatched all of the eyeshadows and got a brush to test the highlighting powders. I also tested all the lipglasses.

The eyeshadows, while all very pretty colors, were very easily dupable. I found a color to match each almost exactly. (left to right)

-Creme de Miel = Ricepaper (slightly less golden/yellow)
-Pollinator = Paradisco (slightly less peach)
-Buckwheat = Mulch (VERY slightly less of a golden shimmer)

Photo Credit: maccosmetics.com

The highlighting powders were also disappointing. These I was really excited about from the website, but when I tested them out they weren't very pigmented, nor were they very shimmery. They didn't really do anything at all. They also had that sickly sweet honey scent. Thumbs down all around for me.

Photo Credit: maccosmetics.com

The lipglasses were the only redeeming part of the collection. The lightest shade (She's a Star) was very basic but pretty, a nice shimmery golden beige. The middle shade was a nice golden peach, but on me it looked too yellow (Queen Bee). I really liked the dark shade, but not enough to get it. A dark, coppery, golden brown, it looked surprisingly natural on me and coordinated well with my skin tone/coloring. It was really quite a unique color (Buzz).

Photo Credit: maccosmetics.com

I didn't even bother testing the body products and perfumes because I already hated the scent hanging around the display.

Overall I like the idea of this collection, but as far as the products go it was kind of a letdown.

'Zip' Dry with OPI

2009-06-12T17:06:00.000-07:00

Drip Dry by OPI
Laquer Drying Drops

These things are seriously amazing. I know that there are many topcoats out there that are formulated to dry quickly, but honestly none of them can beat this. Now you can use any topcoat you want and still have it dry super fast!

My personal favorite: OPI Topcoat.

I have always loved the OPI Topcoat because of its staying power, formula, and easy application. I love that when I go to take off my polish it takes more effort to come off because the topcoat has completely sealed in the color, and it prevents chipping and fading until you want that polish off. There's minimal tipwear. I LOVE it!

BUT. The formula takes so fricking long to dry that my nails would always get smudged or scratched unless I sat completely still for 2 hours and then it was still likely that my nails wouldn't stay scratch-free!

Enter OPI Drip Dry. I put 2 drops on each nail (1 at the base and 1 at the tip) after applying my OPI Topcoat (previously a love/hate relationship) and after sitting still for 5-10 minutes just to make sure there won't be any premature scratching, my nails are perfectly dry and nothing can ruin their smooth, glossy finish!

After the first time I tried this product, I looked at the ingredients list and found that there are very few ingredients and a couple that I never would have expected to find in a quick dry solution. After a little research, here's what I found:

Ingredients
-Disiloxane- I believe this is what makes the nail polish dry faster. There was very little information I could find online about what exactly it does, but none of the other ingredients had anything to do with making things dry fast.
-Dimethicone- This is an ingredient usually found in hair products that is used to tame frizziness. Part of the silicone family, widely used in beauty products to create a smooth, even, slightly slippery finish.
-Simmondsia Chinesis- More commonly known as Jojoba seed oil. Used for moisturizing as the drops spread over your nail and hit the cuticles.
-Tocopherol- More commonly known as Vitamin E. Also an excellent skin moisturizer.

Miami Beet

2009-06-12T15:57:00.000-07:00

Miami Beet by OPI

I've never been much of a laquerhead, but the first time I saw this color I completely fell in love with it! It looks darker in person than in the picture, but the color is a lovely magenta purple. The name makes me thing of going clubbing in Miami (something I would love to do) and that makes me love it even more!

This is:
-1 coat Nail Envy
-2 coats Miami Beet
-1 coat OPI Topcoat
-OPI Drip Dry

MAC Style Warriors

2009-06-12T11:02:00.000-07:00

Bold and bronze. Very bronze. The Style Warriors collection for the summer of '09 was full of bronzers of every type. From the first time I heard people talking about the collection on YouTube I was interested in the products it would have. Upon seeing the collection, I thought that the packaging was adorable. I especially loved the leopard print (being partial to all things cat). There were a lot of unique products in this collection that I had never seen before. The leg sprays and the luster drops were the main oddities. Beforehand (since I can't afford to go buying everything from the collection) I had chosen everything that I wanted to get, and after seeing the collection I finalized what I wanted. That just didn't happen to include any of those 'odd' products. I have heard from several other gurus that they love the luster drops, but I already have a similar product from Clinique so I chose not to get them. I also looked at the solar bits, but I found the texture very annoying even though the colors were gorgeous.

From the eyeshadows I chose to get Bright Future. I liked the pigmentation and the color was unlike anything I had ever seen. Gorgeous! A golden yellow. I was also sorely tempted by Night Maneouvers, but I swatched it and the pigmentation wasn't the best. The other colors were either in the permanent line already or were very similar to permanent colors.

Of the two bronzers, I chose to get Solar Riche. Honestly if I had not heard Tiffany (MakeupByTiffanyD on YouTube) rave about it I would have gone with the other color because Solar Riche is so dark, but I am so glad I did! It is dark and very pigmented but it has these tiny flecks of rosy pink and gold in it that are unlike anything I have every seen. I am very glad I chose to get this color. When put on in a very light layer it really is a beautiful bronzer.

W/out lighting adjustment

W/ lighting adjustment

I wanted to get both of the beauty powder blushes, but they were sold out of Eversun by the time I went to the counter. (the MAC Artist there told me that Gingerly blush was very similar so I got that instead) I did get On A Mission. I wasn't sure I was going to like it because I have never owned a plummy blush before, but I have wound up loving it! It's very different from my usual natural pinks and because of that I really like it. It also goes very well with Solar Riche bronzer.

W/out lighting adjustment

W/ lighting adjustment

The last thing I got was the Brave New Bronze lipstick. It is a satin formula lipstick and I have decided that satins are one of my (if not my most) favorite finishes. It is a lovely pinky golden nude, very creamy and very pigmented. On lighter skin tones like mine it looks very natural, but on darker skin tones I believe it would be a great nude color.

I also think that the model in the collection picture is lovely and the look on her makes her look like an African queen. Her attitude reminds me of a lioness.

Overall this is my favorite collection MAC has come out with so far! Mind you that I have only been into makeup for a few months now, but I really love everything in the collection. The colors are wonderful and most of them are very unique.