Friday, April 29, 2011

Friday Night Drink...

Tomorrow is my birthday so I thought I would use that as a theme for this weeks Friday Night Drink.   If you are 21+ maybe you would enjoy a BIRTHDAYCAKE SHOT.

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1/2 shot Absolut® Citron vodka
1/2 shot Frangelico® hazelnut liqueur
1 lemon wedge

Mix equal parts Absolut Citron and Frangelico into a shot glass. Drink the shot, and follow it immediately by sucking on a sugar-coated lemon wedge.

OR 
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOTHER****** 


Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker half-filled with ice cubes. Shake well, strain into a highball glass, and serve.

For those of you that are not quite 21

BORA BORA

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Instructions

Shake with ice and strain into a tall glass over ice. Garnish with a slice of pineapple and a cherry.

 LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU THINK OR LET ME KNOW YOUR FAVORITE BIRTHDAY DRINK...

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

NEED I GLOW MORE - SELF-TANNING LOTION REVIEW

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I was contact a couple of weeks ago by a representative of Beautisol to review a new face self tanning lotion that is skin type specific.  After reviewing all the information provided for this product I will admit I was intrigued and agreed to review this product.  

Honestly, I have never used a tanning product because I have never had a problem with getting a tan, but I have been asked about tanning products recently.  

The following is the description provided on the website:

What it is:
Need I Glow More?™ is the first ever skin-type-specific face self-tanning lotion. Our Normal-Oily-Problematic formulation is for those with oily or acneic skin.
What's included:
  • 1.5 fl. oz. Face Self-Tanning Lotion For Normal-Oily-Problematic Skin Types or Dry Skin.
  • FREE Application Guide
What it does: (For OIly Skin)
  • Absorbs oil and purifies the skin
  • Delivers a natural-looking, golden-brown tan within hours
  • Provides instant color so you look bronzed and picture-perfect immediately, all while your long-lasting tan processes underneath
What it does: (For Dry Skin)
  • Moisturizes, hydrates, and revives the skin
  • Delivers a natural-looking, golden-brown tan within hours
  • Provides instant color so you look bronzed and picture-perfect immediately, all while your long-lasting tan processes underneath

Features & benefits:

  • Created specifically for normal to oily or problematic skin types
  • Infused with Montmorillonite Clay, Lilac Stem Cell, and Niacinamide to help reduce inflammation and improve acne
  • Lightweight formula prevents the skin from feeling heavy or greasy
  • Pure Scent odor-eliminating technology reduces processing odor
  • Guide color allows you to see exactly where you have applied the product and where you may have missed, reducing streaking and application mishaps
  • Paraben-free, propylene gycol-free, sodium laurel/laureth sulfate-free, and cruelty-free (PETA certified)

There are two formulas 1. For Normal - Dry - Sensitive Skin ($26.00) and 2. Normal - Oily - Problematic Skin($26.00).  I received both and used the Normal - Oily - Problematic Skin.  I have combination skin and acne.  I was very happy to see that this product is not only a self-tanner, but also treats acne.  This product is unique in that way, no other self-tanner deals with specific skin type.  In my opinion, that makes this product superior because this product will not only give you the glow that you desire but also assist in manging your skin type.  I have heard of other tanning products that cause break outs, dried out skin and of course making someone look orange.  

This is what I received:

I received sample of both formulas, face self-tanner guide, personal card and starbursts (liked the extras.)

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This is the Face Self-Tanner Guide  (READ THIS ENTIRE GUIDE BEFORE USING TANNER)
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It important to test this product on a small part of your skin to ensure you do not have a negative reaction.  Prepare you skin by ex foliating .  Make sure to use gloves because it will stain your skin.

When using this product do not be scared of how dark it looks when you squeeze out of tube. The coloring is actually a useful tool because you will be able to see if you miss any spots.  It is very light weight and absorbs quickly.  You will wake up with a nice glow.

I noticed a nice light glow.  The color was not too dark, and if you would like more of a tan you can apply the next evening.  I was tan enough and did not break out.  I enjoyed using this product and would recommend to others.

What I did not like about this product?  The direction said to apply 30 minutes prior to sleeping and I thought I should apply 90 minutes so that i would not get products all over my sheets.  It still left marks on my pillow, but most of it came off in the wash.  On the Guide provided, it stated that this can be used as a foundation.  I may have read too much into this, but I thought I could use it as an actual foundation.  This really meant that with the tan I would not need to use foundation (this would not work for my because I have problem areas to cover). This tan only lasted a couple of days.  Like I said earlier, I have never used a self tanner before, but I thought it would last a little longer.  As long as you maintain your tan with product you will be fine.

Overall, this is a great product.

PLEASE COMMENT IF YOU HAVE USED THIS PRODUCT... OR... PLEASE TELL ME ABOUT A SELF TANNER THAT YOU LIKE

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

THE FACE PRIMER I AM IN LOVE WITH

Those long summer days are around the corner and for those of us that still wear makeup, it is important to use a primer that will assist in making your makeup last all day.  I have tried an endless amount of primers and some I liked and others not so much. Smashbox Photo Finish Color Correcting Foundation Primer ($38.00) and MAC's Prep + Prime ($26.50)  were my top 2 primers.  I will admit that I mostly used MAC because of the price.

This all changed when saw several reviews on Monistat SOOTHING CARE: Chafing Relief Powder Gel.  I know what you are thinking because I was thinking the same thing.  This is a chafing gel and why am I suppose to put this on my face.  With that said, I thought why not give it a try, so I did and I have not used anything else since.  Before I get into what I think of this product, This is what is said by Monistat:

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  • Non-greasy POWDER-GEL™ skin protectant formula with dimethicone. Dries to form a silky, breathable barrier to fight friction.
  • Prevents chafing and irritation caused by moisture, heat, and movement. Ideal for treating everyday intimate discomforts of athletes, plus-size women, new moms and bikini area waxers or shavers.
  • Fast-acting formula comforts chafed skin. Works with just one application.
  • Fragrance-free and non-staining. Discreet relief without damage to your undergarments.
  • Non-irritating formula with vitamin E and soothing aloe. Gentle enough for daily use on even your most delicate areas.

The first thing I noticed was the silk like texture of the gel and how smooth it felt on my skin.  It is light weight and smooths any type of texture on your skin.  Also, I noticied when I washed my face at the end of the day, my skin was actually softer.  Both my foundation and concealer last longer.  Overall, I really like this product as a face primer.  I have suggested this product to a few of my friends and they feel the same about it.

Another great thing about this product is the price.  I recently purchased this item at target for $5.99, for even more savings look for coupons.  I usually find coupons for either $2.00 or $3.00 off, which makes this an even better buy.  (I usually look on-line for coupon, if you can not find one email me and I will find the link).

IF YOU HAVE USED THIS PRIMER PLEASE SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE OR TELL ME ABOUT YOUR FAVORITE PRIMER.

Jesse's Girl Cosmetics Review

Jesse's Girl Cosmetics is an affordable makeup brand that is sold at Ride Aid.  I know that this brand has been around for a few years, but has become more popular the last 2 years.  My first purchase from Jesse's Girl was from their Eye Dust collection, which is loose pigment eyeshadows.

In my honest opinion, these are great.  Each color is very pigmented, blends well, and looks great.  As long as you use a eyeshadow primer, these colors will last all day.  There are 28 different colors of eye dust and I have used 5 of them. The price for each eye dust is $4.99 and contain either 2.5 or 3.5 grams.

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ROUGE FLAMBE
2.5 grams

This color is a shimmery brick red.





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ULTRA VIOLET
3.5 grams

The website describes this color as purple, but I think it is a bit lavender on the side.


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INDIAN SUMMER
3.5 grams

The only way to describe this color is a copper/orange.








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TROUBLE MAKER
2.5 grams

This is a blue/green color.








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STARSHINE
2.5 grams

This is a white sparkle pigment. 







All of these colors are gorgeous.

PhotobucketWe all know that using an eyeshadow primer will ensure that your eyeshadow last all day, does not crease, and intensify the colors.  After years of using Urban Decay Primer Potion and Two face eyeshadow insurance, I have found another primer that has won me over.  Jesse's Girls eyeshadow primer is great and at $5.99, I am in love (lol).  This primer comes with a wond which makes application easy and a little goes a long way.  I have used this primer with eyeshadows and pigments and each time I was impressed.





IF YOU HAVE TRIED ANY OTHER PRODUCTS BY JESSE'S GIRL COSMETICS PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHAT YOUR THOUGHTS WERE...

*all photos used were obtained from product website. 

Sunday, April 24, 2011

Happy Easter Everyone...

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Regardless of how you celebrate Easter, I hope that you have a great day.  Surround yourself with people you love and care for.  Live in the moment and create beautiful memories.

Saturday, April 23, 2011

So in Love with Blue.

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I have a passion for colorful nail polishes.  One color I do not wear often is blue because I think it is difficult to find the right shade of blue.  That all changed with Essie - Lapis of Luxury.  This is a great spring color, if I had to describe this polish color I would say it is more of a periwinkle blue.

I will say I usually am not a fan of Essie, but I have tried a few colors and my mind has changed.  The formula is not streaky and two coat application is just fine.  I use a base coat and top coat, but with some nail polishes I still find chipping the next day.  I have found that with Essie I can leave the same color on for about 5 days without chipping.

Also, find a local nail supply store that sells to the public to get discount prices.  I usually see Essie for at least $8.00, but the nail supply store in my area sells Essie for $3.00.  I hope this is helpful. 

LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU THINK. AND SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE NAIL COLORS AND BRANDS.

Friday, April 22, 2011

Friday Night Drink...

This is only for the 21+.  It's Friday and you deserve a drink.......

Tokyo Ice Tea

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1 oz vodka
1 oz gin
1 oz rum
1 oz 1800® Tequila
2 oz kiwi liqueur
1 oz sugar syrup
7-Up® soda
Mix the alcohol. Add sugar syrup, ice, and 7-up to taste. Garnish with/add pieces of lemon. Stir.






For those of you that are under 21 or just do not feel like alcohol, Why don't you try an afterglow...

Afterglow
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1 part Grenadine Syrup
4 parts Orange Juice
4 parts Pineapple Juice
Ice

Mix, Serve over ice.  Enjoy!!!!










COMMENT FOR ANY OTHER FRIDAY NIGHT DRINKS..... OR IF YOU TRY THESE LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

Get that Award Winning Smile

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Everyone wants to have that million dollar smile.  The key to achieving this is of course, those bright white teeth.  Drinking coffee, carbonated drinks, smoking, berry and other food and drinks are some of the causes of stained teeth. The truth is that even those that take really good care of your dental hygiene will have to deal with yellowing of their teeth. 

I have to admit that I did not put much thought into whitening my teeth until I went to a club that happen to have a fashion show that same night.  I was talking to one of the models and could not get over how white her teeth were.  I just thought it made her look younger, and more put together.  Her hair was a mess and the make up was a grudge theme, but when she smiled it just worked.  At that moment I knew that I was going to find a way to get my teeth whitened.  She did later admit that she gets whitening done at her dentist regularly (especially because she smokes)

I did some research into bleaching my teeth, but found that this method could damage your teeth and is very costly.  Prehaps if the results were permanent I would have put more consideration into this process, but you would have to have this done more than once to maintain.  Also, I want to keep my own teeth until at least I am 103.  lol

Well I decided to google teeth whitening and here is what i found that had real results.

1. Crest 3D White Whitestrips Advanced Vivid - I had read many good review on this product and found a coupon, so I thought why not give it a chance.  I really liked how simple it seemed and that it is enamel-safe.  The information below is what is found on the official website.

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Crest 3D White Whitestrips Advanced Vivid uses revolutionary Advanced Seal technology. This groundbreaking adhesive formulation holds the Whitestrips in place, so you can whistle along with the radio, take a shower, and even drink water while you whiten!
Formulated with the same enamel-safe whitening ingredient dentists use, this teeth whitening system removes surface stains and those below the tooth’s surface. Use them for 14 days, and get whiter teeth that last.

Apply Crest 3D White Whitestrips Advanced Vivid once a day for 30 minutes. You'll start seeing whiter teeth after 3 days, and full results in 14.

I had tried other whitestrips but these were the first and only ones I really liked.  With the Advanced Seal I was able to talk, drink water and do what I needed to do without worrying about the strips moving out of place.  I really wanted to test these strips so I kept drinking water and was singing (not well but I tried) to the songs on the radio.  I noticed a significant change on the 4th day.  At the end of the 14th day I did notice quite a change and I was very happy with the result.  Your teeth will not have the same result as bleaching but believe me it makes a huge different.  You do have to try to stay away from foods and drinks that stain your teeth to maintain the results.

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I used the Vivid White Toothpaste to help maintain and continue to whiten my teeth.  With the toothpaste the process is not as fast but you will see a significant different after a month.  Also, When I used the Vivid White to maintain the result I got from the Whitestrips it did maintain the results longer as opposed to non-whitening toothpaste.

How often you use the strips is completely up to you, but I suggest using the strips for 14 days about 2 times a year.  If you do not consume many products that stain teeth this can be done once a year.

If you need a whiter smile in an instance than I would go for Crest 2-hour express.  The crest website states th following about this product.

With Crest 3D White 2-Hour Express Whitestrips you'll get a noticeably whiter smile in just 2 hours. Apply once for 2 hours and get noticeable results that last for three months. Each kit contains 4 treatments so you can keep your smile bright for a whole year.
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New Crest 3D White 2-Hour Express Whitestrips is formulated with the same enamel-safe ingredient dentists use. And since it uses our groundbreaking Advanced Seal technology, you’ll get convenient, no-slip whitening. You can even drink water while you whiten!

I have not personally tried one, but I have heard good things from close friends.  These are more costly, but if you have a short notice event it will do the trick.
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If you like home remedies, than baking soda is the way to go.  Many people have been doing this for years and still not everyone knows this trick.  Simply put tooth paste on your tooth brush, enough to cover all of the bristles. Put Baking soda on top of the tooth paste, enough to cover all the tooth paste and brush like usual.  Another option would be to replace your toothpaste with baking soda. That option would show significant results in less time, but not many people can handle the taste.  I myself use toothpaste and baking soda and it has worked well.  Baking Soda is safe to use and if extremely affordable.  Baking soda can be found at the 99 cent store (for a small box) and you can purchase a large box for less than 4 dollars.  Plus it will last you a very long time.

FOR DATE NIGHT:  Apply a lipstick with blue undertones.  The blue will make your teeth look whiter.  Most often used is a red color, but make sure it has blue.
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IF YOU HAVE ANY TEETH WHITENING TRICK PLEASE SHARE AND COMMENT.

Hope this is helpful ....

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Sigma Brushes Review

Recently, I have become a Sigma Beauty Affiliate and was sent a E25 brush.  I am very excited and thought I would do a review on this brush and the others I own. 

Sigma has been around for a few years.  They were first introduced as the affordable MAC dupes and now have become more of there own brand.  They have carried Makeup, but Brushes are what they always carry.  They sell individual brushes, Professional brush sets, special edition brushes and Accessories. 

The price range of the individual brush are from 9-19 and the brush set range from 42- 199 (199 being the complete professional brush set).  There prices would be about mid-range.

These are the Sigma Brushes that I own . 

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Sigma Description: A flat-topped, full circular brush used for lightweight application and blending of any formula colour fluid, cream, powder or pigment.

My Thoughts: I bought this brush because I thought it would work well with my cream blushes.  The Bristles are dense which means that a little product will go a long way.  I found that I was able to blend with this brush very well.  Also, I actually have come to prefer to use this brush for highlighting.  The black bristles leak color, which makes the white bristles look grey.  This is common in many brushes, even MAC, so it is not a big deal, and do not affect the application of makeup. 

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Sigma Description: Specially designed to generate an airbrush finish when used to apply liquid foundation. It can also be used to apply blush, highlight shades and loose pigments. Blend of synthetic and natural bristles.

My Thoughts: I bought this brush to use to apply foundation.  The bristles are dense, which is important for blending the foundation evenly and holding the foundation up so a little product goes a long way.  The Black bristles do leak color, which makes the white bristles look grey, but its common and not a big deal. 

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Sigma Description: Oval-shaped brush with gently chiseled sides. Blends and softens the look of powder or cream shadows. Ideal to apply eye shadow primer, base eye shadow colors, and blend harsh lines.

My Thoughts: I was sent this item from sigma and must admit that Love this brush.  The bristles are dense and I have not experiences any fall out.   I have used this to blend a harsh line and blending with color, both times it did it great job.  Since this brush is dense, it makes it easy to blend and achieve your look.

Sigma Brushes are great and are worth buying.  I love them and everyone that I know personally that has purchased brushes say that they love them and want to buy more.  They are moderately priced and great quality.

PLEASE COMMENT AND LET ME KNOW YOUR THOUGHTS ARE ABOUT SIGMA BRUSHES

Makeup Brushes 101

Makeup Brushes are important to any makeup kit, regardless if for personal use or if you are building your professional makeup kit.  I know that the first time I went to buy a couple of make up brushes, I was so confused because according the sale person I needed every brush and there were too many to count. 
In hopes to help anyone in this situation or want some tips on make up brushes, I put together a list of basic brushes that will help you achieve any look that you are going for.  

Before I get into the list of Basic  Makeup brushes, always remember that you have to spot clean your brush after each use and deep clean once a week.  Maintaining this will help your brushes last longer, help to continue to achieve your look, and help maintaining your skin (because using dirty brushes on your skin may cause break outs). 

The photos I used are from Sigma Brushes.

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Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Let's Talk Concealers

Concealers are the most important item in your beauty bag.  Finding the right concealer will allow you to achieve that flawless look by hiding any imperfection that you have.  First, you have to find the concealer that will work best with your skin type and the problem you are concealing.  It is important to understand the different types of concealers and what they are best used for and how to apply each.

Pot Concealers
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MAC Studio Finish Concealer shown above, is an example of a pot concealer.  These Concealers usually have a thick texture and provided full coverage.  These are best used to conceal blemishes, scars, and dark spots on the face.  Its also great for all skin types.  The thick texture allows you to conceal more and will stay on your skin longer.

When it comes to application using your finger is usually the best way to apply this type of concealer.  When using your finger, the concealer is warmed by your natural body heat, which makes the concealer blend easier and better into your skin.  When applying onto your skin you must use a patting or dabbing motion and not swipe or wipe motion.  By patting or dabbing into your skin, you will be able to better control the amount of concealer used, and will blend well.  If you swipe or wipe the concealer on the needed area, you will be actually wiping it off the area and creating a streaking look. 

In my experience, I would apply this type of concealer after applying foundation.  Foundation provides a certain amount of coverage and after the application you can assess what areas need to be concealed.  Plus, you are less likely to have a cakey look because you will only use concealer where is it needed. It is very important to know that if you are going to apply concealer after foundation, you must make sure that the color matches your skin exactly.  Also, Building up coverage (applying a thin layer at a time) will ensure that you do not apply too much concealer.  I am not saying that you can not apply concealer before your foundation, but make sure not to apply too much because it will create a cakey look instead flawless skin.

Wand Concealers
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Estee - lauder Double Wear Stay in Place Concealer, shown above, is an example of a wand concealer.  These concealers usually have more of a liquid texture and have sheer to medium coverage.  These can be used anywhere that needs light coverage is needed.

Application is very simple with these types of concealer because you can use the wand provided.  Like explained above you should still dab or pat these concealers into your skin for a natural look.  These type of concealers tend to be better for those with dry skin. 

I have only used a couple of wand concealers because I need medium to full coverage.  In my experience, using this type of concealer before you apply your foundation is best.  Since it is usually more of a sheer coverage you will not risk creating a cakey look (unless you really use a lot in a small area).  Also, it might be better to use before foundation because with wand concealers it can be a little more difficult to find an exact match to your skin tone.


Tube Concealers
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Handy Candy Glamoflauge heavy duty concealer, shown above, is an example of a tube concealer.  These concealers are usually a creamy texture (but not too thick) and can be used for light to medium coverage.These have very build-able coverage, so you can use as a full coverage. These are best used to conceal slight blemishes, under the eye, and dark spots.

When is comes to Application, using a small stiff brush or your fingers would be best.  You could squeeze a small amount on the back of your hand and use either the brush or your finger to apply to your problem area.  As stated at the above, make sure to dab or pat into your skin, but do not wipe or swipe.  Usually with tube concealers, a little goes a long way, so start with a small amount and apply think layers of concealer until you get the coverage you desire.  You can apply before or after foundation, but if you choose to apply after foundation make sure that the concealer matches your skin tone so that you will achieve a flawless natural look. 

I have used tube concealers for areas where I needed medium coverage.  I usually use this type of concealer before I apply my foundation.  I prefer to use my finger because it will blend much better.  Since these concealers are very build-able I apply thin layers until I achieve the look that I am going for.  Also, if you have a concealer that matches your skin tone, I sometime apply before and after foundation if I see an area that needed a little more coverage and it still blends very well. 

Finishing The Look

To set your look and make sure that your make up last all day. (okay, you may need a touch up here or there).  After you apply your foundation and concealer to your liking you need to set it with a loose setting powder.  Any setting powder will do, but to get the best result use a flat fluffy sponge like seen below:
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Using light dabbing or patting with a small amount of loose powder will set your concealer and/or foundation.  I know that many use concealer without foundation, but remember that you still need to set the concealer with loose powder if you want the concealer to stay on your skin. 


I hope that this information is helpful to some, but I want everyone to know that you have to work with your own skin type and skin issues.  You may find that you have a completely different way of making concealer work for you and if so share your thoughts and tips.

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

HARD CANDY -- BAD GIRL NEXT DOOR

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Bad Girl Next Door is a make up set by Hard Candy that included everything you for your eyes.  Hard Candy's description states : “2 kat-eye-descopes, eyeshadow primer, lash tinsel, take me out liner, & ginormous lash”. This set included 2 eyeshadows, eyeshadow primer, Mascara, Pencil liner,and  glitter Mascara.  This set contains blacks and silvers, there was another one that contained browns and gold, but I purchased this one because I use black liner and black mascara more often so I thought I would get more use out of this one.  This was $8.00 from Walmart.

 I was also very happy to get Glamoflauge Heavy Duty concealor in Tan.  Look at my previous hard candy review to see my thoughts on this concealor, but I have a hard time finding this item especially in Tan.  For those of you experiencing the same problem, you can order this item on walmart.com for no additional charge.  It will be mailed to your shipping address for the same price you would have paid in store.  Sometimes its sold out on line too but they seem to get the product more often on line than in stores.  (hope that helps)

Eyeshadows-- Hard Candy's description: "Highly pigmented single Kal-eye-descope baked shadows. Apply "wet" for more dramatic, intense color or "dry" for a softer shimmery effect. Shade: Bad Reputation. 

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The lighter color is a white frost color and the other is a dark silver/grey color.  True to the description both of these shadows are highly pigmented and I found that they blend very well.  In my opinion, these colors would work well with an evening look.  Photos below provide swatches.  

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Eyeshadow Primer—Hard Candy's description: "Instantly eliminate creasing, fading, and smudging. A drop of product is all it takes.  Apply to lids prior to shadow application."

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I have heard a lot of good things about this eyeshadow primer, so of course, I was looking to finally be able to try it out for myself.  First of all, I must say that Hard Candy does not sell the eyeshadow primer by itself, If you want to get it you will have to purchase the makeup sets that include it.  It comes in a small tube, very simple packaging.  I myself prefer the tube because I feel that I am able to get more use of all the product, plus it is more santiary because you are able to squeese out what you need, as opposed you a wond because you touch the wond and place in back in the product several times.  Now to the information that really matters,  the primer works great.  A little goes a long way and it keeps your eyeshadow in place.  I usually wear my make up for at least 10+ hours daily ( I know I should wash my face when I get home, but I am lazy) and my shadow is still on.  I will say that after 6 or 7 hours the eyeshadow will start to look worn but I only noticied because I was examing how this primer worked.  Since you have to buy a make up set to get this primer, I will say that it is worth it.  I bought this set for $8.00 and I have heard that some of the set are as low as 4 or 5 dollars.  If you can get it for that price it is worth it if you are only going to use the primer.  I know it is small but I only use a very small amount so I gather that I will be able to make this last. 

Lash Tinsel Glitter Mascara-- Hard Candy's Description "A gel-based mascara with serious sparkle.  Apply Lash Tinsel in Spellbound for an all out glam-tastic look!"

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Although this mascara is fun, its not for me.  It comes with a basic wond and it will add silver sparkle to your lashes but it didn't add the wow factor I would like.  It takes at least 4 layers to make the sparkle noticeable.  I was not impressed so I do not have much to say about this. 


Take Me Out Glittering Eye Liner - Hard Candy's description "Flaunt a little shimmery flair for the fun of it with a micro glitter infused Take Me Out Liner in Abyss."

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I am not sure about shimmery, but this is a basic black pencil liner.  I used this to line my water line, very pigmented, but sorry no shimmer of any kind.  In lasted for about 4 hours before I needed to retouch my liner.  I would consider buying this product again because I do use a pencil liner most day.


Ginormous Lash Volumizing Mascara - Hard Candy's description: "Fatten your flutter with Ginormous Lash in Blackout for truly bat-worthy volume and glamour.

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This is the worse mascara that I have ever used.  The mascara was very dry and did not add any color to my eyelashes.  The wond was very basic and that’s all I can really say about it.  I wanted to be  fair so I used this mascara 3 times and each time my lashes actually looked shorter (which is not great because I already have short lashes) and it didn’t look like I added anything to my lashes.  I am not sure if there is a difference because this is a sample size.  If anyone has had a better experience I would love to hear about it.  I am wondering if the full size is actually different.  For now, I do not plan on purchasing this item.

Wet N' Wild Reviews and Photos

There are so many brands of make up to chose from, a girl could get lost in the process. I know that I have take a few bad turn before. I do these reviews in hopes that at least person will be lead to what is right for them. Before I lost my job, I would purchase all my make up from MAC and sephora. I knew I was spending to much but justified it to myself by saying that I work hard, so I should be able to play as hard as I want. It was fun while it lasted, but it open a new door for me in so many ways. I am looking at many things in a new way and I had to learn how to spend smart. I am not going to go on about my life, but I will say that it made me look to other brands of make up. I demanded the same result at a less price. You will see many reviews on this blog and yes, several will be on affordable brands. Not to say that I have lost my eye for other things, but if you can have the same thing for less than why not?

With all of that said, Everything on this blog is not going to be bargain shopping, but I wanted to give you a little background of my own.

Lets now talk about a drug store brand: Wet n’ Wild. I know that this brand has been around for a while, but I only bought my first item (which was the creme liner in black) a year ago. I had watched a review on this item and bought it because I was going out and ran out of my MAC fluidline in Blacktrack. When I walked into CVS for only $3.99 I knew I had to at least give it a try. I have yet to go make to MAC fluidline.

Months later I noticed how cheap the eye shadows were and (of course) heard good things, so I took the plug and bought some. I do not regret anything I had bought from this brand thus far. I have the trios in: Silent Treatment, Knock On Wood, and Cool As A Cucumber. In the Palettes : Comfort Zone, Petal Pusher and Blue Had Me At Hello. I probably bought much more than I needed but the Trios are $2.99 (3 colors) and the Palettes are $4.99 (8 colors). You know that is a good buy, especially if the product has a great payoff. All the shadows are very pigmented and even easier application everything has been labled, Browbone, Crease, and Eyelid. If you like straightforward eyeshadow, you will like how the work has already been done, you will know exactly where to place the colors to achieve the look.

Pros: Packing provided how to instructions to achieve the look you would like and how to tone it down or make it more dramatic, You can create many looks with one palette or trio, great price, long day wear (with primer), Packing it simple and function-able.

Cons: I would have liked to see a couple more matter colors (This is not a huge problem because I use some of the MAC or NYX colors I already have it sometimes), a little more variety in colors available (most colors fall under neutrals, greens, blues, and purples. I would like some pinks, coppers and taupe colors)

Below are the trios and palettes that I have:

Before looking at the trios and palettes, it is important to know where to apply each color.  This is the visual that is provided on the back of the packaging. Your brow Bone is located directly under the arch in your eyebrows, when looking directly into a mirror you will see the crease that natural made when your eyes are open.  The lid is between your eyelashes and your crease.

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I also found this drawing on line to better assist you with the different ares on your eye lid.  In the palettes there are also colors that are labeled as "Definer" If you look at the chart below this area is labeled as 4. Definition color. Definer can be used as a top liner (liner above the eye), smudged under the eye or on the outer edge of the lid to create a more dramatic and defined look. (I will be putting up more post to further explain)

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Knock On Wood - This trio will give you more of a dramatic look with brown and a copper color. For a more natural look use the browbone color on your lid and use the crease color.  Add a nude highlight to the browbone and your done. 

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Cool As A Cucumber - This is green with a purple color in the crease.  This trio can be dramatic or everyday depending on how much of each color you apply.  Eyelid color is a little deeper than appears in this photo.

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Silent Treatment - This trio will give you more of a neutral look. 

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Comfort Zone - Several looks can be created with browns and greens. 

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Blue Had Me At Hello - All the colors in are different shades of blues, with a silver and a white shadow.

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Petal Pusher - Obtain several looks with different shades of purple and 2 light pink colors to use on brow bone.

All photos were obtained from wetnwild website because my photos could not show color well.

Will post different looks that you can make with these palettes soon.

China Glaze -- HELI-YUM

This is a short and sweet post on the nail color I am wearing today.

This is China Glaze HELI- YUM (80934) The best way I can describe this color is almost like a raspberry color or deep pink.  This color is a great color and just bright enough to make you smile when you look at it.  The color is true to what you see.  I would apply 2 coats for the best look, but you can actually use one coat if you are on the run.  In the photo below I did not apply a top coat. (sorry its not the best photo but true to color)

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If you have used this color before let me know your thoughts.