Friday, September 16, 2016

Skin Care - L'Oreal RevitaLift Bright Reveal


So I recently signed up for Influenster Canada and received a VoxBox from L'Oreal to test. Within the box, was their new JLo spokesperson Bright Reveal line. As I am becoming older I realize how important skin care is and I take great pleasure with a skin care routine, as it allows me to wind down before bed and relax. I have used it for a couple of days and truly, you cannot review a skin care line until you have used it for at least a month. Instead, I am going to discuss my first impression and then follow it up with a full review after using it for a while.

Brightening Scrub Cleanser - is a daily scrub cleanser containing Glycolic acid and Perlite. First, what is Perlite? Google to the rescue. According to www.perlite.org, it is "a naturally occurring siliceous volcanic rock". Therefore, I am assuming the "grit" is this.  Secondly, the glycolic acid does not have an indicated percentage.
I am not a proponent of daily scrubs. I say this because too much physical exfoliation can lead to micro tears and inflammation of the skin, thus more break outs. Additionally, I prefer chemical which this line already has with its glycolic pads. The cleanser is perfumed with a clean, fresh scent and also contains sodium laureth sulfate. Both of which are irritants to the skin, with the latter potentially drying out the skin.
My thoughts so far are mediocre due to the scent, the recommended daily exfoliation and the ingredients.

Brightening Peel Pads- claims to resurface uneven skin. Immediately brightens. Reduces wrinkles* (in terms of looks).  It contains 10% Glycolic Complex, a combination of citric acid, glycolic acid and HEPES (-hydroxyethyl)-piperazineethanesulfonic acid). For me, I would like to know the percentage of  each acid within the complex.
My first impression is a good one, but I am a little biased as I enjoy a chemical exfoliation. These are gentle and do not make my skin sting. These are great for glycolic virgins.

Brigtening Daily Lotion with SPF 30-  this contains Glycolic acid, Vitamin Cg (Ascobyl Glucoside) and Pro-Rentinol (Retinyl Palmitate). I love the idea of Vitamin C with my moisturiser; however, I am not a fan of using retinols nor glycolic acid during the day. For me, using retinol  and glycolic acid during the night where cell turnover is at is most efficacious, is best. Again, the packaging does indicated the amount of glycolic acid, which is irksome. However, I am glad it contains a broad spectrum sunscreen Octocrylene 7%, Homosalate 5% Octisalate 5% and Avobenzone 3%. All of which are chemical sunscreens. In addition, one the ingredients closest to the beginning is dimethicone, which is a silicone and will give the skin a soft, velvet feel.
I can appreciate a broad spectrum especially if it contains pro-retinol and glycolic acid. It would be irresponsible of them not to. However, I do not like silicone in my moisturiser as it leads to a false sense of smoothness and silicone can block pores. It absorbs nicely into the skin without the white cast that many sunscreens give. The scent is very light and clean.

Brightening Dual Overnight Moisturiser -  this contains 4% glycolic acid and pro-retinol, which is where it should be. It has a dual chamber, one is transparent, while the other is semi-opaque with a pearlescent quality. Once pumped, the texture is silky and slightly thin.
Looking at the ingredient list, you find glycolic acid near the beginning, which is fantastic but the pro-retinol near the bottom. Furthermore, dimethicone is also near the beginning.
Even though it has silicone in it, I am enjoying it thus far. While at first it feels slightly tacky, this fluid texture eventually absorbs well into the skin, leaving it smooth and feeling hydrated. Anytime, you moisturise  your skin at night, your skin will thank you.

These are just a few of my thoughts and observations
Megsx

Tuesday, September 13, 2016

Bite Beauty- The Multistick

You know those days when you just want a little colour or can't be bothered to do a full face. I love easy, fuss-free beauty. Let me further explain. I love makeup that can be used multiple ways. And no, I don't mean when you are in a pinch, using your lipstick as a blush. There have been many products that has been marketed as such, but Bite's, The Multistick, is something a touch different.

First, the colours flatter lips, cheeks and eyes. All too often, companies will imply that they can be used as such, but in reality, it looks horrible on the eyes. Bite's Multistick colour line up contains mostly nudes;  nude rose, nude brown, nude pinky peach, you get the idea. Secondly, the texture of the bullet is soft but dry. Using it on the lips creates a matte dry feeling, and not greasy for cheeks and eyes. Third, it blends  easily and almost "sets". However, the formula does not last, at least, not on me. I have normal to oily skin and it stays for about 3 hours at most. The colours are so flattering and soft, that it is forgivable and easily reapplied. 

With more research regarding harmful ingredients, I love Bite's philosophy, i.e., food grade makeup. I also love that a Canadian company is innovative and creative with their ingredients textures,packaging, and colours. I am talking about you Kale and Squid Ink. It is reassuring to know that what you put on your face and ultimately, into your body is not harmful. 

I purchased Gelato at my local Sephora prior to the display, therefore I wasn't able to try the textures nor colours. Gelato is a nude mauve rose. Perfect for lips,cheeks and eyes.  It felt a little dry on the lips but not like liquid lipstick dry. $28 Canadian gives you 0.17oz/4.75g.  Furthermore, the product has a shelf life of 24 months. Additionally, I bought two more colours, papaya and cerise. Both goregous with papaya a bright coral pink and cerise a deep neutral red/rose.

Specs:
4.75g for $28 Cdn
Organic Food Grade product
18 colours

http://www.sephora.com/multistick-P411038?keyword=BITE%20BEAUTY%20Multistick%20P411038&skuId=1855261&country_switch=ca&_requestid=250092

Enjoy
Megsx

Sunday, August 7, 2016

Underrated Products

Sometimes watching YouTube is like watching a paid advertisement on TV. Some products work and are worth the hype that surrounds them. Others, well we all have a drawer full of products that we do not use. Then there are those products that are hardly talked about but are absolutely amazing. 

I've compiled a list of those either lesser known companies and/or products. 

Koh Gen Do - Maifanshi Aqua Foundation- My absolute favourite foundation. When I wear this, I know my skin looks amazing. 

https://www.beautylish.com/s/koh-gen-do-maifanshi-aqua-foundation-113

Brush Guards- they keep my brushes in shape and allow them to dry more quickly.

https://www.beautylish.com/b/the-brush-guard

Thayers Rose Petal Witch Hazel Alcohol-Free Toner  - acts as a toner, refresher and it's cheap. Found at most health food shops. amazon etc. I generally hate toners, but this doesn't strip the skin and the rose adds a lovely scent.


Ciate Blush Pop-  love these cream blushes even with my normal combo skin. They blend easily and last on the skin. 

http://www.sephora.com/blush-pop-tm-creme-blush-P393852?country_switch=us&lang=en

Face Atelier - Ultra Foundation - medium coverage, slightly dewy finish and easy to blend. Love the coverage and look 

https://www.faceatelier.com/product/ultra-foundation/category/complexion/

Ultra Sheer - liquid highlighter that can be mixed or used on its own. It is subtle but beautiful

https://www.faceatelier.com/product/ultra-sheer/category/complexion/

Facade - multi use product for cheeks and lips. Mousse texture and matte.  

https://www.faceatelier.com/product/facade/category/lips/

Yaby eyeshadow - small but mighty, very pigmented and inexpensive. I travel with these all the time.

http://www.yabycosmetics.com/

Daniel Sandler -  Watercolor blush. So natural and easy to use.

http://danielsandler.com/collections/makeup-for-cheeks

Shiseido Facial Cottons- 165 sheets of Egyptian Cotton. They don't absorb all of your product and no fluffs :) 
http://www.sephora.com/facial-cotton-P173726?skuId=101220&icid2=products%20grid:p173726

M.A.C. lip mixes - creamy, pigmented, and does not feather. No peppermint to irritate. Love these to mix new colour and easy to use. 


http://www.maccosmetics.ca/product/14768/916/Products/Makeup/Pro-Products/Lips/Lipmix#/shade/Red

M.A.C. Patent Lip Polishes- subtle colour with a creamy, glossy finish. Not sticky.



http://www.maccosmetics.ca/product/13853/29745/Products/Makeup/Lips/Lip-Gloss/Patent-Polish-Lip-Pencil#/shade/Clever

Thanks for reading and dropping by
Megs x

Sunday, June 19, 2016

What's New - M.A.C. Bangin' Brilliant Lipstick

M.A.C. is one of those companies that promotes creativity and innovation with their looks, formulation, collaboration and programs. So it has been a surprise that other than their pro products, M.A.C. has not had a permanent collection of funky lipstick colours i.e., black, white, navy, light blue etc. However, the Bangin' Brilliant lipstick collection, inspires and provides ample shades to satisfy those cravings.

M.A.C. recently introduced 18 new shades to their permanent lipstick collection; varying from Dew - a periwinkle blue to In the Spirit - pure black. The finishes remain true to the core M.A.C collection which include mattes, satins, frosts and lusters, with mattes making up the majority.

My thoughts 

I added seven to my stash, with all but one being matte. They glide on smoothly and feel creamy; they do not feel like a typical matte lippie. However, Dreampot, was unable to reach full opacity and was streaky and Dew was similar, but slightly more opaque.  Additionally, other than Really Me, the other colours have this fragrance reminiscent to Colour Pop's lippie stix - playdoh vanilla; however, it isn't as strong. I feel these do not have the lasting power of  a typical M.A.C  matte. These have lots of slip and seem to feather. A lip liner is a must.

http://www.maccosmetics.ca/collections-bangin-brilliant-lipstick

Cdn $21/ US $17.

Not all the colours are currently in stores. International release is slated for Fall.

In the Spirit- black matte - took a few layers to achieve the desired opacity

In My Fashion - deep chocolate brown matte

Deep Rooted - taupe grey brown- matte

Lightly Charred - light grey matte

Dew - light purple/blue -satin

Dreampot- light turquoise blue- matte - streaky, hard to get fully opaque

Really Me- pale, muted pink nude -matte




Friday, June 17, 2016

Brand Focus: Makeup Geek

Makeup Geek


When it comes to makeup, YouTube and Instagram are great places to find new trends and indie companies. Makeup Geek (MUG), is a Social Media Brand that became hugely popular due to Marlena and her YouTube makeup channel, Makeup Geek. 
 From the beginning, Marlena's bubbly personality, provided educational tutorials, whilst developing her online store, which then progressed into producing beautiful shadows. She used her successful platform and built in customers to expand her fledgling beauty company . With quality shadows and a fantastic price point ($6 US per eye shadow), MUG has exploded and continues to expand its customer base and product line. Some believe that M.A.C actually lowered their eye shadow prices due to MUG's rise in popularity. 

Her product line includes 
Shadows: mattes, satins, shimmers, duochromes $6 US  1.8g
                Foil eye shadow $10 US  1.8g

Blushes $10 US  4.25g
Contour powder $10 US 4.25g
Eye liner Pencil $9 1.2 g
Gel eyeliners $9.99 US 3g
Pigments $8.99 US 2g
Sparklers (glitter) $10 US 4g
brushes $8.50-18 US are synthetic

Shipping to Canada - $5.99

Talc and Paraben Free, Cruelty Free and many colours are Vegan. Made in the USA







barcelona beach- great transition,crease and all over colour



beaches and cream - all over colour and transition
brownie points -crease,outer v colour


cherry cola -crease,outer v and smokey eye
cosmopolitan - movable lid, spotlight colour

dirty martini - smokey, outer v colour

creme brulee - transition colour


enchanted forest - outer v and smokey colour
mirage- all over lid, highlight

moondust - outer v, spotlight colour

peach smoothie- all over lid, crease,and transition colour


preppy -transition, all over lid, crease colour

pretentious- outer v, spotlight colour, smokey bronze 
secret garden- outer v, all over smokey colour

shimma shimma - highlight and spotlight colour


shore thing- all over lid, spotlight colour, inner corner highlight

steampunk- smokey eye, outer v

vanilla bean- all over lid, highlight and spotlight colour
bada bing- outer v, smokey, and crease colour
Okay, now for my review. Let me preface this with that MUG has spoiled us with such good quality shadows, that when other colours are not at the same standard, they stick out. That isn't to say they are not good, they just do not measure up to the others. Even though, I had the most trouble with her mattes, I feel they are one of the best formulations out there. While, the majority of the colours I purchased are creamy,  they easily blend and are highly pigmented, there are a few that need some work.


Dirty Martini- olive green matte. It a little stiff and harder to blend. It can be a little patchy.
Enchanted Forest - dark blackened forest green matte - stiff, hard to blend and you need use a few layer to get the rich dark colour.
Peach Smoothie - light peach beige matte - I found this a little chalky and I needed to build up the colour.
Cherry Cola - deep cherry brown matte - need to build and slightly hard to blend.
Shore Thing - mint aqua matte - chalky, need to build. 

Sunday, June 5, 2016

Review: MAC Pro Beyond Twisted Mascara

When I find something that works for me, I generally do not waiver, especially when it comes to mascara. My love for M.A.C's Opulash and Extended Play Gigablack, is well documented. So, when I ventured to the M.A.C. store and saw they had a new mascara displayed, I was tentative to try it. However, me being me, had to see what made this one special.

Wand -check, brush- check. However, on further inspection, M.A.C decided to be innovative and make the neck of the wand flexible. Yes, it bends up to 90 degree. It is comprised of a flexible metal-like neck with a fairly long brush head with very short bristles. The bristles are not plastic and remind me of Maybelline's Lash discovery.  Never really thought I needed a malleable mascara wand, but obviously it is an issue we face with mascara application. Who knew?!

So, I took it home, and gave my little genius friend a try. Here are my thoughts:

The formula is wet and very black. However, I have to scrape the majority off the bristles. Have I mentioned I am not a fan of the clumpy lash look? Not scraping this, will give you that if  you desire it. Pour moi, no thanks. It definitely defines the lashes and lengthens them a bit. According to M.A.C it is also suppose to lift and curl the lashes. Nope, cannot agree with that and in fact, it doesn't hold the curl I have. However, because of the spiffy new wand, I am able to apply product to the base of my lashes.

Price: $27 Cdn.

Monday, May 2, 2016

Liquid Lipstick Part 2.

For the last 2 years, liquid lipsticks have been one of the most popular products. To the point, that it is hard to get through an instagram feed without a mention of Gerard Cosmetics, Jeffree Star ,Dose of Colors or LaSplash Lip Couture. Also, beauty giants like L'oreal, Maybelline, MAC, among others have finally introduced their versions. 

I am not an avid lipstick chick, but when I do apply a little colour, I want it to last and be comfortable.  Since my last post, I have tried more formulas from Indie brands and honestly, some of these are the best out there. 

Makeup Monsters Cosmetics  



Amount: 6ml
Price: $15.95 US - from Washington State
Texture: Light, thin, liquid formula.

Top to bottom Flutter, Heavy Artillery, Muddled.
Thoughts: Layers nicely. Highly pigmented. 
Lasts for about 6 hours - not oil proof, but mostly transfer resistant. 

Vegan and Cruelty free

Their Claims:

4-12 hours wear - depending on routine

Our unique touchproof formula was designed on the idea that no one should have to sacrifice comfort for durability. Our thin and lightweight formula is different from any other brand out there bringing comfortable wear while giving a pigmented and long lasting touchproof look. 

Jeffree Star Cosmetics


Left to Right Redrum and Abused
http://jeffreestarcosmetics.com/

Amount: 5.6ml
Price: $18 US
Texutre: Light, thin liquid

Thoughts: Pigmented,  non drying. Easily layers. 
Not oil proof but mostly transfer resistant

Vegan and Cruelty Free

Their claims:

Our liquid lipstick goes on opaque, dries completely matte and stays on for hours! This product is 100% vegan & cruelty-free!(tips before use: exfoliate with lip scrub then apply to bare lips! avoid food with oil… and no making out, kisses are ok!)



LASplash 

Amount: 3 ml
Price: $18.95 Cdn
Texutre: Very liquid, layers moderately and very drying.
Left to right Ghoulish, Sirius, Venom, Nagini, Charmed


Thoughts: Lasts for at least 8 hours, but crumbles and hard to remove, very drying

Their claims:
Lip Couture's rich waterproof shades will leave a velvety, matte finish that never transfers. Experiment with our boldest high pigmented shades -- from neutral to solid black. With its innovative formula that glides on as liquid and dries matte, you are sure to turn heads! Use the Lip Couture Remover to effortlessly remove the lipstick and leave your lips super moisturized and cushiony soft.

Bathe your lips in intense color! The Smitten LipTint Mousse seals color on the lips for a waterproof, smudge-proof result that will not transfer or fade. Its innovative weightless formula glides on effortlessly over lips, laying down bold vibrant color with exceptional longevity and feels feather-light over the lips. When applied, the initial liquid texture immediately dries to a velvet matte, lightweight tint. The angled, dense sponge applicator makes applying the lipstick fast and easy, and precise application

Maybelline Vivid Mattes


Amount: 7.7ml
Price: $11.99 Cdn
Texture: Creamy, liquid does not dry to matte or fully dry down. 
left to right Nude Flush and Vivid Violet

Thoughts: smooth application except Vivid Violet is patchy, comfortable as it doesn't fully dry, transfers, not a true matte

Transfers

Their Claims:
Mattes go vivid
Infused with pure pigments for high-impact colour
Lip color glides on smooth to a matte finish














NYX Lingerie


Amount: 4ml
top to bottom Honeymoon and Lace Detail
Price: $9.00 Cdn

Texture: light, mousse texture.


Thoughts: smooth application, transfers, good number of nude colours, comfortable. 


Cruelty Free









Too Faced Melted Matte



Amount: 7ml
Queen B
Price: $25 Cdn
Texture: light, liquid texture. Layers well. 

Thoughts: short longevity, removes easily, moderate transfer, comfortable on the lips. 

Without:
- Parabens 
- Sulfates 
- Phthalates 

Their Claims:
Too Faced’s innovative formula glides onto lips like a gloss but dries to an ultra-matte, opaque finish. Melted Matte ensures that your lip color always looks rich, full, and kissable—and is never dry, shriveled, or cracked. The doe-foot applicator comfortably coats lips in bursts of intense, vivid matte color that lasts for hours. It’s infused with Volulip for a no-sting plumping and smoothing effect and antioxidant-rich avocado oil and vitamin E to moisturize, while hyaluronic filling spheres smooth the look of lip lines. It comfortably coats lips with a wash of intense, high-impact, super-saturated color that lasts for hours.

M.A.C. Retro Matte Liquid Lip
Left to right:  To Matte With Love, Lady Be Good,
Feels so Grand, High Drama, Oh Lady
Amount: 5ml
Price: $24
Texture: light, thicker liquid. 

Thoughts: Wears evenly and stains lips, lack of colour choices, dark colours are patchy. 

Their Claims;
Long-wearing, eight hours
Colour wears evenly and smoothly, eight hours
Provides stay-true colour, eight hours
Non-feathering, non-bleeding"












My favourite liquid lipstick is Makeup Monsters. With its light, liquid texture and durability, this is truly a great formulation and company.  I love the range of colours - blue, pinks, greens and nudes.