Monday, May 18, 2015

On The Shelf

Overview:

MAC Pro Longwear Blush – Stay Pretty

Purchase Price $26 + tax

Retailer MAC counter Macy’s

Check out www.maccosmetics.com for more product info.

Product Review:

I instantly fell in love with this blush once the MAC artist applied it. Finding this shade was a bit of a challenge however since I already own and named the two blushes which the MAC artist initially pulled out. So the choice was between Stay Pretty and a slightly deeper pink that I did not like.

This blush is build-able and results will vary depending on how heavy handed you are. For me I like a nice pop of pink on my cheeks and this fit the bill. A soft swipe and instant color for a simple look. But, if intense color is what you want then this will not disappoint either in being able to get a dramatic effect. I have had no problems with application or blending using my Bdellium brush.


Since it is a labeled as MAC’s “Pro Longwear” it can be worn for eight hours without worries. I would have to agree that the color has not faded or lose its semi-matte luster after an entire day of wear. This was my first time buying a “Pro Longwear” blush from MAC but not the last. I intend on trying a couple other colors in the future. Price point is on the mark for the brand, quality, and amount of product. That being said it is definitely a repurchase for my shelf. 

Monday, May 11, 2015

On The Shelf

Overview:

Orange Tonic Mask

Purchase Price $18 + shipping


Check out www.mariobadescu.com for more product info.

Product Review:

Once a week, usually on Sunday, I perform my “super skincare” routine, which consists of multiple face masks that seem to have benefit me when used in a specific order. Mind you all of the products I’ve used, so far, have independently worked fine and do not have any adverse interactions in the way I use them.

The Orange Tonic Mask was first received as a sample and I have been using it for a few months. This light orange scented clay based mask easily glides onto skin without any irritation. It is recommended, on the Mario Badescu site, to be used if you have combination, oily and sensitive skin. I whole heartedly agree however, I see no reason why normal skin types would not also benefit from this product. This mask, like most, leaves the skin feeling slightly taut after it dries fairly quick and washes away with no chunky or clay mess when comparing this to other masks. My skin always appears a little brighter, this could be from the Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) which helps to exfoliate dead skin cells revealing a newer replenished surface. It is recommended to wear for 15 – 20 minutes however, I have left this mask on from 30 minutes all the way to an hour without any irritation or drying of my skin. Since it is smoother and slightly thinner in consistency than other masks a little goes a long way. I find the price for what it has done to be fair considering the skincare brand.


Since I have seen a difference in the appearance of my skin I will continue to use this product. Let me put it this way; I am on my second 2 oz. container and it has become a part of the regular purchases for my shelf. Need I say more? 

Monday, May 4, 2015

On The Shelf

Overview:

Gerard Cosmetics Kimchi Doll Lipstick

Purchase Price $19


Check out www.gerardcosmetics.com for more product info.

Product Review:

Gerard Cosmetics has created another totally awesome lipstick by teaming up with fashion blogger Sophia Chang. Keeping with their creamy smooth formula, which glides onto lips effortlessly, I found Kimchi Doll to be a peach sheen nude compared to the shimmer of baby pink Gerard advertises.


It took two coats to achieve a full coverage look. Unfortunately this color, and most like it, seem to wash me out since I am so pale. The hues were all wrong, for me, and the color of the lipstick did not resemble what appeared on my lips. I believe this color definitely gives a nice polished end result with a clean and more sophisticated makeup versus an edgy glam/rock look. Not to say this has made my feelings about Gerard’s lipstick any different but this one will be in my kit, for use on others, instead of on my shelf.