DERMALOGICA, DARPHIN+CARGO, REAL TECHNIQUES by Sam Chapman AND THE EFFECTS OF SMOKING ON THE SKIN!

Okay , so again a long time has gone by since I've done any new posts, so I made 3 videos yesterday, and still need to do one more but for now I hope you find these useful!

In order for these videos to be more understandable you may want to check out these web sites for what certain definitions mean or what some ingredients are and how they work ...etc:

www.dermalinstitute.com

www.mychelle.com

In the first video I Talk about some Dermalogica products I got recently on a wonderful website www.beautyflash.co.uk ! ( You can get them in the USA too in stores or at Dermalogica shops/skin care centers...just check on line!)

They ship to HUNGARY as well!!

Their website is great and very easy to navigate! They feature options such as "ask our therapists" where you can email any questions you have concerning the products or skin type and "face mapping" which if you click on they ask a few ( I think too few...) questions about how your skin is, determining which products you should try! I do think that they need to ask more questions in order to get enough info together in order to figure out which products will suit you, but...it's better than nothing and they do show some alternatives as well.

Another great point of the web site is that, next to each product is not only a list of the active ingredients, but also states what effects they have and how they work! I rarely see stuff like this with product and it's so important!

The prices on the beauty flash site are cheaper than elsewhere, they ship for free within the UK and Ireland, plus you may choose a tester out of a huge list of products as a bonus! (They send 2 little packets, which you can get up to 4-5 uses out of them if you are wise about application)

UPDATE: I just received an email from Beauty Flash that they will have to increase their prices from april! :( Sad, but still worth comparing to retail stores/salons!

Watch the video below to find out more information and see which products I got!!

Second video is about Darphin and CARGO Cheek activator!

The Daprhin product is a cleansing balm, with aromatherapeutic Rosewood!

I talk about it and the benefits of rosewood in the video so not going to write too much about the product itself, just the availability!

USA:

www.lookfantastic.com

www.cheapsmells.com

www.feelunique.com

www.darphin.com (Store and Spa locator!)

UK:

www.salonskincare.co.uk

www.echemist.co.uk

www.johnlewis.com

http://uk.spacenk.com

www.darphin.co.uk (Store and Spa locator!)

HU:

Try larger pharmacies such as in Mammut or Westend Shopping centers!!

The second item I talk about is CARGO's Cheek Activator!

I believe you can get Cargo in Sephora, at least I know they used to sell their products.

I got this at Boots and it had a HUGE price reduction ..like the origional price was over 10 pounds and I got this for 4!! SO SO SO worth it! I LOVE it, it gives a perfect natural cheek color and kind of adapts to your skin color.

Usually cream color doesn't stay too well on me but this is super, and dries totally matte.

Third and last video for this post is about my new REAL TECHNIQUES brushes and the effects of smoking on the skin!

If you are a makeup addict and haven't heard of these you MUST MUST MUST do some research on them and watch Pixiwoo on youtube or just search them on there!! Lately everyone is buzzing about them and I was becoming very fascinated by them + needed to get some new brushes so I chose these! Let me tell you these brushes are wonderful! So amazing, that I decided to be a bit selfish and keep them for myself!

I talk and show them in the video a little bit, so here is the info on where you can find them!

( IF YOU want me to do a kind of tutorial on how they work , let me know and I will film a video for that...I didn't because there are tons and tons of them and even Samantha has some on the Real Techniques site!)

USA:

www.realtechniques.com

www.ulta.com ( They used to have more...for some reason they only have the powder brush for now...)

UK and HU (NOT BOOTS!) :

www.boots.com

www.love-makeup.co.uk

www.cocktailcosmetics.co.uk (Has also vegan cosmetics and brushes!)

So first off I DO NOT ENCOURAGE SMOKING, but I myself have smoked and I may still once in a while bum one off someone in social situations.

I don't buy them anymore and don't feel the urge to smoke anymore...the last time I had a cigarette I actually felt a bit groggy and sick...I am glad I have arrived to this point!

Having said that, I did this post because many of my friends and people I know are smokers and may be interested in what effects it has on the skin. So in the video that's what I talk about and try to explain in depth ( best to my knowledge ) what the physical effects are.

At the end I also say a couple of ideas to counter act the effects HOWEVER the obvious solution is to QUIT the habit all together!

I hope you will find them useful and will do a Vitamins video as soon as I can, I just have to record it!! :)

I am also planning on doing a post about harmful metals found in decorative cosmetics...I have the info but have to first "process" it then tape it for you all!

If anyone has any more ideas or questions please inbox me or leave a comment here or on my facebook page!

My top products for a real natural and polished look!!

Hey hey hey...

So here are the top products in my opinion that are great nor creating looks that are very natural. Obviously everyone is free to pick and choose which products they are interested in...I usually wear very minimal makeup ( for the past few years now..) and just do light foundation on super moisturized skin, some eyeliner(s) (brown+black) mascara, blusher and out the door. However I know that some girls/women only feel comfortable wearing a bit more makeup than that.

In these videos I talk about Face products as in foundation, primer, concealer, blush, eyeshadows, mascaras, pencils and lip color that I FEEL suit the criteria of NATURAL makeup. The product I believe will be suitable for all ages. Most of the products are matt but I do talk about some frosty colors and some creamy textures...

I made a few videos and separated them, because I just have a lot of products that I wanted to show you and the first video was just way too long (over 30 min.)...but this is probably better because you can just skip the parts that you aren't interested in!

All of these are from my personal kit, and you don't have to get the exact same ones, but it's just to show you the shades I think suit the category in general.

Keep to matt finish stuff, light weight primers, concealers and foundations... the key is to only enhance your own features slightly and make your skin look as healthy as possible.

Here you go and if you have any questions or suggestions for a next video LET ME KNOW..either on facebook or here! Tootles xx

Face coverage:

Face Color:

Eyes:

Mascara and Lip color:

Update Video a.k.a. WHERE THE HECK HAVE I BEEN + my fave YouTube channels!

HEYYYYAAAA!!!!

Finally back, and am very sorry it took this long!! You have now idea how chaotic, stressful and cold the past few weeks have been!! We moved to a new apartment and of corse MANY MANY things were either not working or where just 50% working or just basically totally half assed...

The worst and most crippling issue was that our heating system was so old, it should have been in a museum...it wasn't working at all and the entire flat was like an igloo. AWFUL AWFUL AWFUL!

Whatever so I just made a video earlier today about what's been going on but MAINLY about the YouTube channels I check out every day. Now, I watch many different ones but THESE are the BEES KNEES!! They are entertaining, they teach great tips and give useful advise aaaannndd you will be watching videos that are NOT A WASTE OF TIME...although of corse I still love Keyboard Cat and Antoine Dodson song hahahaha ( If you don't know these CHECK them out..at least once )!!

Here is the video and below are the links to the channels!

GOSSMAKEUPARTIST:

Short and very informative videos. Goss seems to know his stuff on beauty and skincare and also combated acne and problematic skin, so is well educated in the topic and also does videos like "How to minimize pores with makeup" or "How to clear acne"... etc.

He uses a wide range of products, so I am sure there will be stuff that is affordable and will appeal to any age and budget.

Awesome advice on how to find dupes of high end products in drug stores , what products are rip offs and which ones are great value and quality...

http://www.youtube.com/user/gossmakeupartist?feature=g-user-u

PIXIWOO:

Brilliantly talented and lovely makeup artist sisters.

They mainly do celebrity inspired looks, but they do more red carpet or beauty campaign looks, rather than very "in your face" crazy music video makeup (though they have those too).

The looks they do are very suitable and appropriate I think for any age group and are super wearable.

They also use many different products, so you don't have to feel like everything has to be super expensive for it to look good (YES PEOPLE, some cheaper brands are great too!!!)

http://www.youtube.com/user/pixiwoo?feature=g-user-u

NIKKIETUTORIALS:

Fun and entertaining personality...she is talented and very nice. I think she seems so cool also because she isn't afraid to be herself, which I find very empowering and inspiring. I think today we live in a world where there are so much expectations of how you should look or whatever or else you get stamped as one or more of the following : Moron,Idiot,Ugly,Fat,Whore,Fag,Gay,Stupid...and the list goes on and on... Frankly I am just very tired of this "trend"... the people who do this and talk like this have NO CLUE the real damage they cause.

GETTING BACK TO THE POINT...

So, she uses loads of MAC which is great if you are very intrigued by their stuff , or if you are like me and always are a bit overwhelmed, her videos can help you narrow down what you are looking for.

The looks she does are more INTENSE and strong, so those of you looking for more statement makeup you will LOVE her channel! :) (If they are too crazy, you can always just pick out certain points of her looks and make it your own.

http://www.youtube.com/user/NikkieTutorials/featured

PETRILUDE:

The master of creative and drag looks! I don't even have anything to say..just watch his videos and be inspired!! YOU WILL!! PLUS we all know highlighting an contouring is what makes Miss Kimmie (Kardashian) and others (Tyra, Iman, J.Lo..etc) sooo glamourous and the only way to learn how to get those techniques down if you can pull off KILLER Drag makeup skills...!! Take notes!!:)

http://www.youtube.com/user/petrilude

KANDEEJOHNSON:

Probably one of the cutest, sweetest people I have seen on the web. This woman is so cute! She does videos on makeup, hair, DIY projects, lifestyle...everything!! She is very motivating and inspiring! Great videos for all ages and styles! Lots of product reviews, tutorials...etc. I am telling you , if you are sad or feeling down Kandee will make you feel better... I don't know how she does it but ... I know after I watched her last XMAS video on how she decorated her house I felt like a kid again..just so inspiring and uplifting!:)

http://www.youtube.com/user/kandeejohnson

So those are my main top watched channels on YouTube, but there are a few more great ones...I can do an update post about them sometime if you all would like that... but for now check these out! :)

I'll try to do a post tomorrow too!! Tootles till then ;) xx

LiLash 3rd week +2 days review...

Sorry for being late, I was supposed to post this out on wednesday! Honestly the reason for me not doing it, is because I wasn't seeing any progress and wanted to wait, maybe it would get more "exciting".

I usually do the photos in the morning, so it's friday morning now, and I must tell you...MY LASHES ARE ALREADY SUPER LONG!!! :)

Probably I didn't even notice, because the color of them hasn't changed and the tips are quite light/fair...but I just applied a tiny bit of natural looking mascara and...WOW!! I think the photos speak for themselves!

Super excited for the upcoming next weeks :)))...

Crazy though how light the color of my lashes are...huge difference with some mascara...

LEFT eye NO mascara AND WITH mascara:

RIGHT eye NO mascara AND WITH mascara (sorry for the crap photo :S):

So what do you think??

My Foundations...Video and photos

I made my first video, and I was super nervous...which is strange because I've been on TV a good few times before and haven't been this awkward about it in the past...but whatever...bare with me, I tried very hard to be normal and say what I wanted to :D.

Anyway I still will write a few lines below the swatches, in case I forgot anything in the video!

First of all let me just say, I usually use products that other people don't use..I don't know why...that doesn't mean anyone is using the wrong stuff, I just like to try different things and try not to spend too much money on products...I search for quality and nice prices!

I also have a bunch of KRYOLAN ULTRA FOUNDATION and DERMACOLOR...I didn't include those in this , because I try to use those as concealers. If you are curious I can make a post later about them.

Group 1. Thicker foundations

Brands:

Dianne Brill Smoothing Coverage Foundation

Paris Berlin Le Fluid

Sephora Perfecting Cover Foundation

Dianne Brill:

I only did one swatch...the no.3 shade is mixed with something else now... :S 30ml/"tub".

Strong coverage with a porcelain finish!

Paris Berlin:

WATER PROOF.

It does dry dry! It doesn't look it in the photo but, trust me it isn't moisturizing.

Finish is more matt, medium to thick coverage.

100 ml/ bottle.

Sephora:

Matt thicker coverage foundation. I would probably say medium thick to thick.

The shades don't turn color and they stay on for a long time.

Better for normal to oily skin.

35 ml/bottle.

Group two: Medium coverage non-matt finish

Nars Sheer Glow

YSL Perfect Touch Radiance

NARS SHEER GLOW:

Read more about it in previous post... Medium thick to thick coverage, NOT MATT DRY finish.

30ml/bottle

YSL:

Built in brush, shades are too pink and don't have enough colors!

Coverage is similar to Nars sheer glow.

Don't know how many ml, but MAXIMUM 30ml/bottle. MESSY!!!!

Group three: Sheer coverage, natural finish OIL FREE

Bourjoise Healthy Mix Serum

Maybelline Fit Me

Shiseido Dual Balance

Bourjoise: 30ml/bottle..natural to light medium coverage.

Maybelline: 30ml/bottle...SUPER light coverage, slightly buildable coverage. They have MANY shades!!! Hope it comes to Europe!!!

Shiseido: 30ml/bottle...natural to medium coverage. Quite a good range of shades..this was the lightest I believe...

As you can see they all look pretty similar, so think before spending a bundle on "designer" names...usually it's totally not worth it!

DISLIKES:

These are usually too oily or creamy, or they have a strong chemical smell (studio fix by mac!!!) , can dry streaky, change shades when they have dried and or they do not sit well on the skin. I have a few other brands I have tried and not liked, but I only have these for now...

Chanel:

Too oily for a light weight product, it literally slides off the skin...very strange.

I have however tried AQUALUMIERE and that one is FANTASTIC! I don't exaclty know how much product is in it, but i am sure it would be also max 30ml/bottle...I just think there are waaaaaaaaaaay better products on the market than this "Buy me because I have a famous designer name" crap...excuse my french.

Come on... does this look oil free to you?!..No WAY!

Only try it if you are in to the "I only wear tinted moisturizer" thing, or if you have very uneven skin and don't want to wear a thick foundation...(moisturizer + tinted moisturizer+ light weight foundation).

I just do not like this at all.

I don't know the amount in the tube but surprise surprise .. probably 30ml..or 50ml.

The coverage is very sheer..obviously.

AAAAAND here is the video... Should I do more? Maybe I'll get more confident with time...who knows... :D

Hope you find it useful!!

Tomorrow LiLash update...!!!

NARS Sheer Glow Foundation

Since I am totally obsessed with NARS products and needed a new foundation, I knew exactly which brand I wanted to try out.

So as you've probably read previously (hope you have...) I am a major fan of foundations that aren't too thick and give a more natural finish to the skin. My top fave's so far where the Dianne Brill Fresh Water Pearl, Make Up For Ever's Face and Body...and then my cheaper alternative fave is Bourjoise Healthy Mix Serum.

All these are fabulous and I truly do recommend them for when your skin is more normal and you don't have to "cover up" as much... but there were and still are days, when I would have a few blemishes and irritations or just felt down right nasty and wished that these beautiful foundations would just cover up a little bit more. THAT is what this foundation does and that is why it's fantastic!

There are many reviews on line, the product receives negative and positive comments and reviews. The thing is, i think people either expect way too much, or don't pick foundations to suit there skin types, and end up being unsatisfied.

The biggest complaints are the fact that it isn't "glowy" or there is trouble with the application and that it isn't very sheer enough.

NARS Sheer Glow Foundation is NOT as sheer as MUF Face and Body or any of those types though it IS a light weight more natural finish foundation.

In regards to the glow effect...don't expect to be straight up shimmery and highlighting, it's glowy because it doesn't dry as for example MAC Studio Fix fluid. It is superb for normal to dry skin which can handle a bit of moisture..or at least the finish isn't matt.

Application wise, my first question to the makeup artist at the NARS counter was, "How is it the best way to apply this foundation?"..This should be the first question you should ask the sales person ( and then hope he or she knows the answer...but that's a totally different story) when you buy any product. I was told to get the best results, I should just use my fingers. I'm fine with doing that... I prefer brushes and I am sure there's a great way to apply it with them, but whatever...if that's the best way then so be it!

Before the photos just to show how amazing this product is, let me just remind you all of the following:

No matter what type of foundation you use, the results will mostly be based on the condition of your SKIN! NOT the product it self! So remember... exfoliate every 10 days (in general, with an exfoliator that suits your needs) and moisturize!

Color is Santa Fe

Amount is 30 Ml

Blended on my hand... it blends towards the left...

See how it doesn't seem dry or waxy?! Just perfect!

Ok, and here are the most important photos, the before and after...

BEWARE the before photo is scary! ( And I HATE that you will all see me with no makeup, but whatever..must make some sacrifice in the name of research!! )

AFTER NARS Sheer Glow ... (+ YSL Touche Eclat + NARS Luster Blush)

MUCH MUCH MUCH BETTER!!! and I have no concealer anywhere else except the YSL under my eyes.

APPLICATION:

Twist off the cap and put some of the product on your finger...just dab it on the opening of the bottle...

Apply little "spots" of foundation to the cheeks , then use middle and ring finger together and blend the product around the face in little circular movements... repeat on opposite side.

on forehead do the same "spot" trick just in a V shape starting from in between your eye brows and move the product up and outwards.

I didn't even put powder over this.

It took like 5 minutes...MAXIMUM!

What are your top foundations? Have you tried NARS??

LiLash 2 weeks update!

Hello hello!!

It's been two weeks since I started using LiLash, and in the previous posts I had mentioned that my lashes felt strange... heavy even, also experienced a bit of veiny-ness in my eyes sometimes... well I guess It's true what previous bloggers have written and said (youtube), it goes away... you probably get used to it...

So I know I said I would't write my own opinion, but I have to ...a little bit at least.

I possibly see some length in my lashes...I am not 100% sure if I am just telling myself this, or if it's true, but they do seem to have a bit more length. However I ABSOLUTELY noticed that the lashes are growing stronger and a bit darker. They just look fuller than before.

Here are the photos with and without mascara ... you be the judge :) :

LEFT SIDE No mascara:

LEFT with mascara:

RIGHT SIDE no mascara:

RIGHT with mascara:

So what do you think? Click the images I you want to see better! (Besides the obvious that mascara makes a HUUUUUUUGE difference!!!)

I am very much looking forward to results after week 4, as in general it takes 4-6-8 weeks for the results to be very noticeable :)

Tomorrow I'll do a new post, but not exactly sure what to write about ... I have a couple of ideas though... any suggestions are welcome though ;)

xx

BLUSH,CONTOUR and HIGHLIGHT

All these are powders, I prefer these to creams or tints...although there are some good ones in those consistencies too (Stila, MAC,M.U.F.,BENEFIT's Benetints and High Beams...etc).

I just prefer working with the powders, I think they last longer and you can easily control the intensities. There are many different types such as matt, shimmery, shimmer with glitter, matt with glitter...etc.

As well as that, there are TONS AND TONS of colors to chose from! The only type I don't have and am uninterested in are glittery face colors... A little shine is great but with the glitter it's just way too 1980-1990's... time to put that stuff away!

I have a few different types, but I don't collect make up, just to say I have it, or like some people are huge MAC fanatics and just buy everything... I like makeup a lot and it's my job to use it... but I have a life and like other stuff too... ( with that said I love watching makeup collection vids haha, some of those collections are AMAZING! )

So the first palette I have, which is AMAZING , and it will probably last forever, I bought in NY at the ALCONE makeup store... The crazy thing is, I have no clue what the brand is... it has no lable, the color tins have no writing on them...nothing... it costed like 30$ though... I remember that! I tried to find it on their website, but no luck , so if you live in NYC and are interested, just go and check it out.

Probably the closest brand would be La Femme...maybe it is... not sure...anyhoo it has 12 colors in it and they are FABULOUS!! The pigmentation is crazy strong, so you literally only need to dip your brush in the color one and you're good to go! The color range is great, neutrals to brights, great for darker skin color as well! As a bonus you can use the colors for eye shadow too... its a mix of matte and slightly shimmery blushes.

The palette split in two:

Here are the swatches of the colors, NOT in order!! :

I think if you click the image it should get bigger...

So as you can see there is a GREAT color range and they are SUPER pigmented!!

If you want to get a good blush palette for work purposes (TV/Film/Print), where you need to build more color THIS is a GREAT option!! It will last forever and gives great results!

Next three FAVE blushes are from NARS...and one is a highlight...if someone gave me a chance/wish to have a full range of cosmetics from one brand..it would be NARS! I am obsessed! I Love all the products I have from them so far... love love LOOOVE!!

From left to right:

ORGASM: Pink with peachy-gold shine...looks great on most skin tones! You can use it in a a thinner application and build it up... it is a MUST HAVE for all professionals and would recommend it for personal use as well!!

LUSTER: Deeper golden-bronze peach tone... great for the summer, or to add a bit of a kick to any pinky blush...great for warmer tone skin...use it for a blush or bronzer!

ALBATROSS: AMAZING glowing highlight with the mix of cool shine with golden shimmer... ideal for fair to medium skin tone...for ethnic skin it can become a little bit ashy looking.

If you are interested in buying just 1 flawless highlight powder THIS IS THE ONE TO GET! trust me, you will not regret it! I use it all the time for photo shoots and always makes the models skin look amazing!

Next up are my two MAC Blushes

MELBA Powder Blush

and DOLLYMIX Sheertone Shimmer Blush

MELBA (left) is a matt peachy pink blush that is a great jolly joker type product for most skin tones and women who are in a hurry and want some color, but aren't THAT in to all the hype about face color.

It's very pigmented and buildable. Versatile from natural to more prominent looks.

DOLLYMIX (right) is what it is..it's a cooler shimmery true pink, that applies lighter than a usual blush. It leaves a veil of color but you can of course build it up for a stronger application. I think it works great as a product to give more depth to a flatter blush, or use it on it's own in a thin layer for more fun, lively looks!

Next up is SLEEK Contouring Kit in MEDIUM:

Sleek is actually a quite impressing brand, i have one of there eye palettes, and have had some students, who have shown me their stuff too at the school I was teaching at...they are very good and the price is more than friendly!

Getting back to this product... Lately in the last few years, it is more and more of a trend to focus on the face color and highlighting and contouring vs. just applying eye and lip color, which I LOVE! I am so so happy about this because I sometimes seriously feel it makes a world of difference to the over all look and gives a certain sophistication! I thank you very much RuPaul, Iman, Tyra, Kim Kardashian, Beyonce, Jay Emanuelle ( just to mention a few) and all you lovelies for bringing awareness about this and making it more and more popular!

If you are interested in perfecting your skills I suggest the following : Study a skull... look at the hollows and high points..understand the importance and dimensions of bone structure.

Next step is to practice... practice on girls and guys! Drag Queens are the masters of this look! Study the looks! Find and watch tutorials on you tube! Kevyn Aucoin's Making Faces is wonderful for this technique...his book and his work was mainly put together in the nineties, the era of the "Super Models" (Christy, Iman, Naomi,Tyra, Cindy, Linda...etc) when highlighting and contouring made it's first real debut.

The kit comes in three "shades"; light, medium and dark.

I have the medium and love to use it for photo shoots!

The highlighter is OK too...but I have some better ones so I don't use this one as much.

This is a great kit to have!

TOO FACED Snowbunny

This is originally a bronzer for light skin...true, but I also use it as a highlight for medium/tan/dark skin...it has a few rows of color in it, so if you wanted you could use them individually as well, or can mix them together. I love all the face color Too Faced has...they are all beautiful and adorable, I used to have more but after moving so many times I had to ween through my stuff and just keep whatever I couldn't live without. ( Sad Face :'( )

I totally recommend this brand if you want something beautiful, and don't want to spend too much money...

Here's a link to what it looks like, because I didn't photograph it:

http://img.makeupalley.com/1/5/5/3/1906695.JPG

And here it is on my arm, all mixed together:

Next are two other MAC powders:

One is SELECT SHEER PRESSED POWDER in NW35 (top), the other is MINERALIZE SKIN FINISH in SHOOTING STAR (bottom).

Have you ever bought a pressed color powder that turned out to be too dark? Either the sales girl sold you the wrong color, or possibly you bought it in the summer when your skin was darker, or maybe (because it DOES happen) the color after a while darkens/changes on your skin...whatever the reason...There is NO NEED TO PANIC! :) Just do what I did, and use it as a beautiful, matte bronzer or contour for light skin tones! I absolutely love to use this product for just that! Even when doing very detailed contouring along the nose, crease and brows! You will be left with a super refined naturally glamourous look!! Well, hello instant nose job!! :)

The mineralize powder was given to me from a dear friend of mine, who said it was too dark for her... she has a bit fairer coloring than I do, and even I can't use this unless I have a tan going on, so I totally understand why she parted with it..and I was glad to welcome it in to my cosmetics family! ( YAY! :) )

It's a baked mineral powder, with swirls of deep bronze shimmer, silvery shimmer and gold flecks... gorgeous as all mac mineral powders..although they do tend to flake a bit. Use it as a bronzer, highlight for darker ethnic skin, or a glimmering contour!

Link:

http://img.makeupalley.com/8/7/0/9/1258085.JPG

Last but not least is SEPHORA's SCULPTING DISK powder trio

I don't remember the price but it was the first sculpting product I bought.

It comes this a bronzer, pressed "neutral" powder and a highlight.

It's ok... I am glad I have it because the undertones are all a bit more ice-ey and cool, and most of my stuff has warmer tones.

I haven't used the natural powder too much, only if I am on set and don't want to run around with loose powder making a mess. The bronzer is probably the best out of everything in this palette. The highlight is ok too it's a bit pinky and can look ash-ey , and as I said, I think warmer tones are usually prettier.

The palette is ideal for on the go makeup artists...working on outdoor sets, who run around a lot doing touch ups... we all know how chaotic it can be to have to carry around and run after models and actors all day...so if we at least have some basic palettes for doing touch ups, our life is easier..this is great for doing just that! ( I used it on a film set, to add depth to eyebrows and facial scruff to male actors)

Palette:

Bronzer

Highlight

So there you go! :)

What should I post about next??? TIPS!! :)

Do any of you do highlighting and contouring? Have you got any of these products??

MASCARAS Part2 and mascara technique photo

So let's not even waste time...

Mascara number seven:

Urban Decay Supercurl Curling Mascara

Link:

http://a248.g.akamai.net/7/248/8278/20101221040212/www.sephora.com/assets/dyn/product/P280411/P280411_hero.jpg

The wand is slightly curved with rubbery bristles quite short... similar to Max Factor Masterpiece mascaras.

I am not wild about it... the formula is a bit "strong". I am sure you have come across mascaras that harden when they dry... this one does that.

It would probably be better for using in the root for VOLUME just because I hate when only the tips stick together, so wouldn't use it for natural look.

Product on my lashes:

Mascara number eight:

Too Faced LashGasm Mascara

Link:

http://www.google.co.uk/imgres?q=too+faced+lashgasm+mascara&um=1&hl=en&biw=1359&bih=579&tbm=isch&tbnid=2SHS990b4Dk39M:&imgrefurl=http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml%3Fid%3DP266705&docid=jnu4hsaY35Yu8M&imgurl=http://a248.g.akamai.net/7/248/8278/20100603030337/www.sephora.com/assets/dyn/product/P266705/P266705_hero.jpg&w=250&h=250&ei=omkHT6S8F8eh8gP1uv1O&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=174&vpy=138&dur=1022&hovh=200&hovw=200&tx=137&ty=101&sig=111417460972590535182&page=1&tbnh=117&tbnw=108&start=0&ndsp=24&ved=1t:429,r:0,s:0

Similarly to Urban Decay's Supercurl Curl Mascara, it is a rubber wand with small bristles...but it does not have a curve. It just goes to show how little things make a difference and all brands have different results... I like the application of this mascara much better than the previous. Nice coating of each lash, no stickyness and the lashes don't dry stiff. I always have liked this brand and have a bunch of their stuff so...stay tuned ;)

I think this mascara can go for natural looks and volume as well nicely.

Product on my lashes:

Mascara number nine:

BareMinerals Flawless Definition Volumizing Mascara

Link:

http://www.beautygala.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/product28.jpg

Love it... Does exactly what it says... I am not very familiar with their products...meaning I haven't bought any of them before, so this is a good first impression.

The wand is large and quite dense and the formula is perfect for it. Result: No clumps just beautifully coated lashes that you can take from natural to volumized...I would probably apply some more volume in the root

Product on my lashes:

Mascara number 10:

Make Up For Ever Smoky Lash

Link:

http://a248.g.akamai.net/7/248/8278/20080816031803/www.sephora.com/assets/dyn/product/P217907/P217907_hero.jpg

I was expecting better... Clumpy, sticky and the formula seems dry and a bit grey...better for adding volume than alone...

Just goes to show all brands have products that aren't amazing.

Product on my lashes:

Mascara number eleven

Smashbox Lash DNA Mascara

Link:

http://www.beautezine.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Smashbox-Lash-DNA-Mascara-291.jpg

I've had this for a while, and still works like a gem!

The wand is a bit strange looking and sometimes it is cut in a strange way..mine has the two little bristles sticking out from the top... but if you apply it with care, you will have no problem.

The color is great, the formula is very lash friendly, no clumps and no stickiness!

I use it for more of a good NATURAL base coat.

I would buy it again, as I got this one for free with my Sephora Beauty Insider points! ( If you don't have a beauty insider account ASK about it at Sephora! You can get GREAT stuff and if you are a makeup/beauty/perfume/haircare junkie like me and buy from there..the points gather up very fast!!!)

The product on my lashes (Similar to BareMinerals!!):

Mascara twelve and thirteen :

MAC Haute and Naughty Lash Mascara

Link:

http://www.beautifulmakeupsearch.com/storage/mac_haute_naughty_mascara.jpg?__SQUARESPACE_CACHEVERSION=1278029739295

I am putting them together, because it is ONE product, containing two mascaras.

It's one I buy when I am running low on money as it is the same price as a single mascara, and has a lot of product... also you get two very different looks.

This is how it works:

The main wand is the pink one...it is placed inside the tube attached to the purple cap.

By twisting off the pink cap you pull the wand through the purple tube which REALY removes all the excess off the wand, resulting in beautifully NATURALLY coated lashes. I LOVE this one!!

If you twist it back on, then twist off the purple cap, you will have the same wand as the pink, but with WAY MORE product on the wand, which (should) result in PURE VOLUME... I think it just makes the lashes look clumpy... so not my fave...you can take your time and remove the excess, but if you are pressed for time it sucks. Over all, It is a good mascara though...the color, consistency, application in majority is worth it... especially if you use the pink wand more, it will last forever, just because there is so much formula in the product itself...

The directions say to first use the purple wand, then the pink one... I still would end up with too much product on the lashes.

I do recommend it!

Product on my lashes ( Sorry..very bad photo :S ):

Pink wand

Purple wand

AND FINALLY

Two photos of the mascara technique results...

I paired MAC HAUTE LASH with TARTE GIFTED in the root...

Tadaaaaaaaam!! :) Feel free to compare with my no mascara look in previous posts...I CLEARLY have no lashes if I don't use mascara...so these results (I think) are quite impressive.

Try it out and let me know what you think :)

I will make an effort to do the blush post tomorrow!

Mascara review part1.

Ok so I wasn't able to show all mascaras, because my eyes were getting a little sensitive after washing off the mascaras..so I will be showing 6 different ones for now and will do part2. tomorrow!

I also want to do a BLUSH post too... so keep an eye out for that one coming up soon ;).

Firstly I am going to have to write how I use and categorize mascaras...

I always divide them in to two groups :

1. LENGTH/NATURAL LOOK: These mascaras leave your lashes coated root to tip in a more natural, thin layer.
2. VOLUMISING LOOK: These mascaras usually are the ones with more dense bristles, many times they are shorter too. They coat the lashes in a more thick, strong layer.

Since we all have different eyelashes, you will have to try each one you buy, and then categorize them according to how it looks on YOU! You can't trust advertisements...for example BENEFIT Bad Gal Mascara does NOT add volume to my lashes, but I know people who have opposite results.

Anyhoo... So after you have done this you will apply the mascara in the following order...( I think it is the very best way to get the look of full, long lashes that stay curled up WITHOUT USING AN EYELASH CURLER!!!)...

1. Cover lashes root to tip with NATURAL MASCARA... You do not need too much product, just make sure you coat the lashes to give them length and color.
2. Take VOLUMISING MASCARA and ONLY apply it in the root area of the lash. The trick is to place it in the root and to wiggle the want in a left to right ( or vica versa..whatever) motion. TRY NOT TO get product towards the top of the lashes.

WHY this method works so well??

First off the less product you have on the tops of the lashes, the higher they will stay up/curled..if not, the product will weight the lash down.

Secondly, you will be avoiding clumpyness, and your lashes will look nice and fully separated from the center to the tip.

Lastly, the extra volume in the root adds depth and intensity making your lashes look fuller. It will also add to the definition of the upper lash line (Bonus!!).

PRODUCTS

Mascara number one is SEPHORA ADVANCE LASH BOOSTER:

Over all it is an OK Mascara on its own. The intensity of the color I like a lot, but the consistency is a bit too goopy, so your lashes may stick together a bit.

It is ideal for using to VOLUMISE THE ROOTS of your eyelashes.

It supposedly also helps lash growth, but I haven't used it enough, plus I am using LiLash so I wouldn't notice it probably anyways.

Link to what the product looks like:

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31tkBKLOU2L._AA300_.jpg

Here it is on my lashes:

Mascara number two is STILA FOREVER YOUR CURL:

Great example of having to try each product out...the bristles are very small on this wand, and you would think it would work possibly better to give volume, but as you can see, it works better as a NATURAL LOOKING mascara.

The color could be more intense, but it's ok.

I like the smaller wand, as it is easy to control, and to coat even the lower lashes without getting too much product on the lash.

Link for the product:

http://www.s7images.com/is/image/ebeauty/970552?$380X362$

Product on my eye:

Mascara number three is TARTE GIFTED

LOVE the packaging!! It's wooden!! How cool is that??

I like the bristles and the wand very much! They are very dense and strong, so it works great for getting in to the root and combing the lashes apart.

CONS: The consistency. It just seems a little cake-y or dry even...it says amazonian clay on it, so PROBABLY that explains it! It dries out fast, and i do tend to get panda eyes from it a bit.

It's too clumpy as a natural mascara to use alone, but GREAT VOLUME EFFECT mascara...when you know you won't wear it all day...!!!

Link to the product:

http://www.terrasavvy.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Tarte-Gifted-Mascara.jpg

Product on my eye ..Sorry this application is terrible, I was in a hurry ):

Mascara number four is JOSIE MARAN INSTANT NATURAL VOLUME ARGAN MASCARA (Loooong nameee!!!)

I have no complaints about this mascara! It does what it says...it gives a natural look and makes your lashes look thicker at the same time. I think it's a great balance of both "worlds". It is a lot like MAC Haute and Naughty Lash's PINK mascara...which I will show in next episode os mascaras.

It's obviously best for NATURAL LOOK, great for step 1. of applying mascara!

Link to product:

http://www.demeterclarc.com/wp-content/uploads/images/2011/03/GOGO-INSTANT-NATURAL-VOLUME-ARGAN-MASCARA.jpg

Product on my eye:

Mascara number five is HOURGLASS FILM NOIR

I was expecting to be totally wowed by this product, but I wasn't.

It could be more pigmented and it's heavy.

Better for VOLUME, as it sticks the lashes together, and we want separation towards the top of the lashes!

Link to product:

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AJ4dcRUy_T0/TkHoKbTWAJI/AAAAAAAAAZo/DpjCDSluETE/s1600/Hourglass-Film-Noir-Full-Spectrum-Mascara-01.JPG

Product on my eye:

Lastly, mascara number six is FRESH FAIRYDROPS

I have to say, I am happily surprised how good this mascara is!

I have used other ones from this brand too, but this one is even better.

The wand was a little strange when I first saw it and the consistency of the product seemed almost creamy... but as you can see it coats the lashes beautifully and has a nice dark color to it.

In terms of natural vs. volume, I think it is a good middle ground...It adds length, a friendly amount of volume and check out the natural curl it gives!!

I like this one the most out of all in this post! (So far!! :))

Link to product:

http://www.audreydao.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/FAIRYDROPS-Scandal-Queen-Mascara-Photos.jpg

Product on my eye

What do you think? Have you tried any of these mascaras before?

They are all from sephora, but if you look them up on line, I am sure you can get your hands on them through other sources!

Happy viewing and I will continue tomorrow ;)

1 week use of LiLash UPDATE

Hey everyone!

So it's been 1 week of using LiLash and I took some photos of each eye with and without mascara... though bare with me, I don't have a proper camera and I took the photos with my phone...

BEFORE posting them though, I have to say my eye area sometimes feels a bit sensitive, not itchy or painful... just my lash line feels "heavy"...strange... my eyes are not red but I do notice the veins a bit more some days.

Pictures...Click to enlarge them:

LEFT EYE with mascara closed and open:

RIGHT EYE NO MASCARA:

RIGHT EYE WITH MASCARA:

There you go...I am looking forward to results after 2 weeks :)

You can compare with the previous entry to see if YOU notice any difference!

I am going to do a mascara description tomorrow, as I just got about 10 new mascaras over the holiday, and have some others too... :)

Tootles ;)