Got a lipstick shade you've kept around but never wear? Put it to good use!
http://www.ehow.com/how_7375819_make-color-lipstick.html
Friday, April 15, 2011
Friday, April 1, 2011
Beauty Tip: Waterproof Makeup (without buying new makeup)
In the summer, sometimes I go places where I know my photo will be taken and I really don't want any photos of me without at least a little makeup. Since I (partially) draw on my eyebrows, they're the first victims of waterpark fun. Instead of buying a whole set of waterproof makeup for your summer needs, try these products:
Benefit Cosmetics She-Laq
This is a bottle of multi-use waterproofer. It comes with a little set of brushes you can use for anything. There's a brush for mascara, lipliner, eyeshadow, etc. VERY handy, and it works great. I used it to seal my eyeshadow and brows for a day at the beach. Even abusive ocean water didn't mess up my "look".
Cost: $30 (It's a pretty big bottle, considering you don't have to use much of it at once)
Available at: Ulta, Sephora, amazon.com
Pop Beauty Liner Creator "Golden Sparkle Sauce"
This product isn't as easy to use as the She-Laq, but it's great if you use mineral (loose powder) eyeshadow. You can mix a drop of it with the eyeshadow and it becomes waterproof. I haven't tried using it for anything else, but I guess you could use it as a brush-on waterproofer, too. It's advertised as a way to create eyeliners out of your favorite eyeshadow. As the name implies, it has a sparkly property that might make it less-than-ideal for multiple uses.
Cost: $10
Available at: amazon.com, Ulta stores (not online)
Benefit Cosmetics She-Laq
This is a bottle of multi-use waterproofer. It comes with a little set of brushes you can use for anything. There's a brush for mascara, lipliner, eyeshadow, etc. VERY handy, and it works great. I used it to seal my eyeshadow and brows for a day at the beach. Even abusive ocean water didn't mess up my "look".
Cost: $30 (It's a pretty big bottle, considering you don't have to use much of it at once)
Available at: Ulta, Sephora, amazon.com
Pop Beauty Liner Creator "Golden Sparkle Sauce"
This product isn't as easy to use as the She-Laq, but it's great if you use mineral (loose powder) eyeshadow. You can mix a drop of it with the eyeshadow and it becomes waterproof. I haven't tried using it for anything else, but I guess you could use it as a brush-on waterproofer, too. It's advertised as a way to create eyeliners out of your favorite eyeshadow. As the name implies, it has a sparkly property that might make it less-than-ideal for multiple uses.
Cost: $10
Available at: amazon.com, Ulta stores (not online)
Monday, March 28, 2011
Product Review: StriVectin-SD Eye Concentrate
I got a large free sample of this product. Always in search of something to improve my under-eye circles and fine lines, I was excited to try it. Disclaimer: The product info says to use it 1or 2 times a day, and I only used it once a day.
The Claim:
Lines, creases, and dark circles less visible while reducing puffiness.
My Take:
While I find StriVectin's "SD Wrinkle Treatment" to be a great product, their eye concentrate is only mediocre. It did moisturize well and didn't get all weird and flaky like some other things I've tried. However, I got only barely-noticeable results with the under-eye circles (still had to use concealer) and almost no change with fine lines. My dark circles are genetic, so maybe there's nothing to be done about them.
Side Note:
Most of these "eye cream" type products treat under-eye circles AND puffiness, which is not a problem for me. I'm always trying to find something that doesn't do anything with puffiness. Maybe that's why it didn't improve my under-eye appearance???
My Suggestion:
Try something that's WAY less expensive and only use this if it's free. Seriously, it's $59 an OUNCE, people...
The Claim:
Lines, creases, and dark circles less visible while reducing puffiness.
My Take:
While I find StriVectin's "SD Wrinkle Treatment" to be a great product, their eye concentrate is only mediocre. It did moisturize well and didn't get all weird and flaky like some other things I've tried. However, I got only barely-noticeable results with the under-eye circles (still had to use concealer) and almost no change with fine lines. My dark circles are genetic, so maybe there's nothing to be done about them.
Side Note:
Most of these "eye cream" type products treat under-eye circles AND puffiness, which is not a problem for me. I'm always trying to find something that doesn't do anything with puffiness. Maybe that's why it didn't improve my under-eye appearance???
My Suggestion:
Try something that's WAY less expensive and only use this if it's free. Seriously, it's $59 an OUNCE, people...
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Product Review: Bare Minerals Foundation
I got a sample of this product a long time ago and finally got around to trying it. Here's my take:
Take Your Pick
It now comes in two varities: "Original" and "Matte". "Original" is pretty shiny-looking. It kind of looks like it contains the same stuff they put in bronzers. It's that kind of look, anyway - not oily, just shiny. I haven't tried "matte", so I don't know how it looks. It comes in a pretty decent selection of colors.
Variable Coverage
The coverage you'll get from this mineral powder foundation depends on the brush you use. Basically, the more bristles (or the denser the bristles are), the more coverage you'll get. You can still put your usual concealers under the foundation if you need selective coverage. Brush suggestion: Eco Tools Retractable Kabuki Brush. ($11.50 at Ulta & Target - sometimes on sale at Ulta. These brushes hold up well to repeated washings, if you do it right.)
Good for Everyday Use
Unlike many foundations, this one has a "natural" look, so you can even use it on days you don't want to look "made-up".
Feels Better than Liquid
When I'm wearing this foundation, I don't feel like I have a layer of gunk on my face, which is nice. It's so not-noticeable that sometimes I forget I'm wearing makeup. (I rarely leave my home without makeup, so this stuff has the odd side effect of causing me "I forgot makeup!?!?!" panic moments, until I remember that I did put it on.)
Better for Skin
I don't know if it's the "minerals" or that it's a powder, but my skin feels better than when I use liquid makeup, and I haven't gotten any blemishes since I started using it. It's easier to remove than the makeup that I usually use, too. They say you can sleep in it, but that's weird to me. But at least if I stagger upstairs late at night, I can get it all off with a face cleansing wipe. Also, it has SPF 15 built in, so it will protect you from those nasty, aging UV rays.
On an Unrelated Note:
DO NOT try to get "Pur Minerals" brand, even if it's less expensive. Their foundation is icky. It feels like you're putting cornstarch on your skin compared to Bare Minerals smooth loveliness.
Cost: $25 for "original", $28 for "matte", $60 for various "starter kits" - some prices lower at amazon.com!!!
Available at: Ulta, Sephora, www.beauty.com, www.amazon.com
Take Your Pick
It now comes in two varities: "Original" and "Matte". "Original" is pretty shiny-looking. It kind of looks like it contains the same stuff they put in bronzers. It's that kind of look, anyway - not oily, just shiny. I haven't tried "matte", so I don't know how it looks. It comes in a pretty decent selection of colors.
Variable Coverage
The coverage you'll get from this mineral powder foundation depends on the brush you use. Basically, the more bristles (or the denser the bristles are), the more coverage you'll get. You can still put your usual concealers under the foundation if you need selective coverage. Brush suggestion: Eco Tools Retractable Kabuki Brush. ($11.50 at Ulta & Target - sometimes on sale at Ulta. These brushes hold up well to repeated washings, if you do it right.)
Good for Everyday Use
Unlike many foundations, this one has a "natural" look, so you can even use it on days you don't want to look "made-up".
Feels Better than Liquid
When I'm wearing this foundation, I don't feel like I have a layer of gunk on my face, which is nice. It's so not-noticeable that sometimes I forget I'm wearing makeup. (I rarely leave my home without makeup, so this stuff has the odd side effect of causing me "I forgot makeup!?!?!" panic moments, until I remember that I did put it on.)
Better for Skin
I don't know if it's the "minerals" or that it's a powder, but my skin feels better than when I use liquid makeup, and I haven't gotten any blemishes since I started using it. It's easier to remove than the makeup that I usually use, too. They say you can sleep in it, but that's weird to me. But at least if I stagger upstairs late at night, I can get it all off with a face cleansing wipe. Also, it has SPF 15 built in, so it will protect you from those nasty, aging UV rays.
On an Unrelated Note:
DO NOT try to get "Pur Minerals" brand, even if it's less expensive. Their foundation is icky. It feels like you're putting cornstarch on your skin compared to Bare Minerals smooth loveliness.
Cost: $25 for "original", $28 for "matte", $60 for various "starter kits" - some prices lower at amazon.com!!!
Available at: Ulta, Sephora, www.beauty.com, www.amazon.com
Friday, March 11, 2011
Thumbs-Down: Murad Oil-Control Mattifier
OK, first of all - this product claims to hydrate AND control oil. It's been my experience that this is a hard thing to do and I can't imagine how it could work. However, I got a free sample so I gave it a try.
The most immediate "dislike" for this product is its fragrance. It smells like Elmer's School Glue mixed with witch hazel. And it feels about the same. While it doesn't feel bad on your skin, (once it's set) it just doesn't mattify the way I'd like it to. I also didn't notice much in the way of "oil control".
On the upside, it does have SPF15. So, if you have a free sample lying around, you can always wear it for its sun protection factor.
Alternate products to use for oil control:
Urban Decay "De-Slick in a Tube" ($28 for .67 oz)*
Laura Geller "Welcome Matte Skin Enhancer" ($23.50 for .5 oz)*
Peter Thomas Roth "Max Anti-Shine Mattifying Gel" ($35 for 1 oz)*
Urban Decay's offers the most matte finish, Peter Thomas Roth's has the best through-the-day oil control, and Laura Geller's is somewhere in the middle.
* prices listed are from http://www.beauty.com/
The most immediate "dislike" for this product is its fragrance. It smells like Elmer's School Glue mixed with witch hazel. And it feels about the same. While it doesn't feel bad on your skin, (once it's set) it just doesn't mattify the way I'd like it to. I also didn't notice much in the way of "oil control".
On the upside, it does have SPF15. So, if you have a free sample lying around, you can always wear it for its sun protection factor.
Alternate products to use for oil control:
Urban Decay "De-Slick in a Tube" ($28 for .67 oz)*
Laura Geller "Welcome Matte Skin Enhancer" ($23.50 for .5 oz)*
Peter Thomas Roth "Max Anti-Shine Mattifying Gel" ($35 for 1 oz)*
Urban Decay's offers the most matte finish, Peter Thomas Roth's has the best through-the-day oil control, and Laura Geller's is somewhere in the middle.
* prices listed are from http://www.beauty.com/
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Product Spotlight: Jack Black Lip Balm
I can't stand being without lip balm. If my lips are even sort of dry, I start freaking out. One day while shopping at the mall, I was without my must-have item, so I wandered into Sephora looking for something to do the job. The cheapest lip balm product I could find was $7, and I was desperate, so I bought it. Little did I know that Carmex and all the other stuff I've ever used would be shunned in favor of Jack Black "Intense Therapy" Natural Mint Lip Balm.
I recently ordered a double-set of Jack Black's Lip Balm. (Because 2 for $10 is way better than 1 for $7!) One was the usual Natural Mint I always use, and the other was Vanilla Lavender. Now, I like lavender as long as it's in a pillow mist or hand lotion, but I found I really don't like the way it tastes. The vanilla was hardly noticeable over the strong floral scent/taste. (This probably explains why I haven't seen the vanilla/lavender variety sold in stores) The lip balm also comes in Lemon/Chamomille, but I'm not much a fan of chamomille, so I haven't tried it.
At any rate - despite sharing a name with an actor I find particularly annoying - this lip balm is fabulous. It moisturizes very well and lasts longer than most other products I've tried. Yeah, I wish it didn't cost $7, but at least it works.
Available at: Sephora, sephora.com, Ulta (in-store only)
I recently ordered a double-set of Jack Black's Lip Balm. (Because 2 for $10 is way better than 1 for $7!) One was the usual Natural Mint I always use, and the other was Vanilla Lavender. Now, I like lavender as long as it's in a pillow mist or hand lotion, but I found I really don't like the way it tastes. The vanilla was hardly noticeable over the strong floral scent/taste. (This probably explains why I haven't seen the vanilla/lavender variety sold in stores) The lip balm also comes in Lemon/Chamomille, but I'm not much a fan of chamomille, so I haven't tried it.
At any rate - despite sharing a name with an actor I find particularly annoying - this lip balm is fabulous. It moisturizes very well and lasts longer than most other products I've tried. Yeah, I wish it didn't cost $7, but at least it works.
Available at: Sephora, sephora.com, Ulta (in-store only)
Monday, February 14, 2011
Beauty (Budget) Tip: Buy Online
I'm a HUGE fan of online shopping. It's the best way to get great deals on stuff you already know you want/need from the comfort of your own home. Shopping for beauty products online can save you time and money, and can get you free stuff.
How To Do It:
- Go to your favorite beauty/department store.
- Check out the products you're interested in.
- Find them online cheaper, or with better free gifts.
Better Deals:
Ulta, Sephora, Drugstore.com/Beauty.com (these sites share a shopping cart, but beauty.com carries the higher-end stuff) offer special online-only deals, free gifts, and clearance items that vary from what's offered in stores. Sign up for e-mails to get full access to ongoing deals. If you're making a large purchase, check sites like http://www.amazon.com/ and http://www.buy.com/. That way, you won't have to pay sales tax.
Ulta's "Special Offers" section: http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/specialOfferCenter.jsp
Sephora's "Beauty Deals" section: http://www.sephora.com/promo/beautybonuses/index.jhtml?om_mmc=ret-n1-20110212onlysephora---opi-h6pban2b-gwp--om-us-stdfooterfreestuff-fostdh-h-&emtc=20110212onlysephora---opi-h6pban2b-gwp--om-us&ematg=1458425081&dicid=448764:18777604368:32265374
Free Stuff:
Ulta, Sephora, and Beauty.com give you 3 free samples of your choice with online purchase. Some single-brand stores like philosophy.com give out samples too. If you're shopping at Ulta or Sephora, you're going to have to pay sales tax either way, so you'd might as well get some free stuff!
Save More:
Use http://www.retailmenot.com/ to find current coupon codes for discounts, free shipping, etc. Use a site like http://www.ebates.com/ to get cash back on all your purchases. Having/using an ebates account will get you 4% - 12% cash back. (or more: during holidays, some places give double cash back). It may not be a huge amount, but it can help offset sales tax.
Keep in Mind:
There's usually a minimum purchase required to get free shipping - generally, it's $25 or $50. If I've already got $40 worth of stuff in my shopping cart, I search the clearance section to get $10 worth of stuff, or I order Christmas gifts early. I'd rather spend $10 and get stuff I'm going to use than spend $6 on shipping.
How To Do It:
- Go to your favorite beauty/department store.
- Check out the products you're interested in.
- Find them online cheaper, or with better free gifts.
Better Deals:
Ulta, Sephora, Drugstore.com/Beauty.com (these sites share a shopping cart, but beauty.com carries the higher-end stuff) offer special online-only deals, free gifts, and clearance items that vary from what's offered in stores. Sign up for e-mails to get full access to ongoing deals. If you're making a large purchase, check sites like http://www.amazon.com/ and http://www.buy.com/. That way, you won't have to pay sales tax.
Ulta's "Special Offers" section: http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/specialOfferCenter.jsp
Sephora's "Beauty Deals" section: http://www.sephora.com/promo/beautybonuses/index.jhtml?om_mmc=ret-n1-20110212onlysephora---opi-h6pban2b-gwp--om-us-stdfooterfreestuff-fostdh-h-&emtc=20110212onlysephora---opi-h6pban2b-gwp--om-us&ematg=1458425081&dicid=448764:18777604368:32265374
Free Stuff:
Ulta, Sephora, and Beauty.com give you 3 free samples of your choice with online purchase. Some single-brand stores like philosophy.com give out samples too. If you're shopping at Ulta or Sephora, you're going to have to pay sales tax either way, so you'd might as well get some free stuff!
Save More:
Use http://www.retailmenot.com/ to find current coupon codes for discounts, free shipping, etc. Use a site like http://www.ebates.com/ to get cash back on all your purchases. Having/using an ebates account will get you 4% - 12% cash back. (or more: during holidays, some places give double cash back). It may not be a huge amount, but it can help offset sales tax.
Keep in Mind:
There's usually a minimum purchase required to get free shipping - generally, it's $25 or $50. If I've already got $40 worth of stuff in my shopping cart, I search the clearance section to get $10 worth of stuff, or I order Christmas gifts early. I'd rather spend $10 and get stuff I'm going to use than spend $6 on shipping.
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