On The Shelf

Overview:

MAC Pro Longwear Concealer NC15

Purchase Price $20

Retailer www.maccosmetics.com

Check out www.maccosmetics.com for product info

Product Review:

Being a longtime fan of anything MAC trying this concealer was an obvious choice. Reading many reviews and seeing YouTube reviews definitely gave me the push I needed into purchasing this product. Being so fair skinned the NC15 is the lightest shade available and it is still a bit dark for me but this didn’t stop me from using it.

Applying with a Beauty Blender this concealer goes on with no issues and just a dab of this product goes a long way. The under eye coverage is great making any fine lines or dark circles disappear with virtually no effort or heavy application. Blemishes as well seem to vanish with a medium coverage that could be built up to full for those more stubborn spots. Extremely lightweight it truly feels as if nothing is on my skin after setting this is also beneficial as it does not seem to leave pores clogged as some heavier concealers do.

As there have been no issues of excess oiliness or drying of my skin I would recommend this for all skin types. The matte finish makes claims of lasting up to fifteen hours and I can attest to having no problems after wearing it for nine. The only drawback, if any, is the fact it comes packaged in a glass bottle that some have actually dropped and broken. This has only made me more cautious but will not deter me from keeping this on my shelf.

 

On The Shelf

Overview:

NYX Slim Eye Pencil (White)

Purchase Price $3.50 + tax

Retailer Ulta

Check out www.nyxcosmetics.com for product info

Product Review:

White eyeliners are a MUST. The diverse use of this product to achieve multiple looks is fantastic. Applying to the waterline will give you a great bright eyed wide awake look that will not go unnoticed. Lining the upper lid, as you would normally, along with splashing the right color combo of shadows or pigments you will get a psychedelic 60’s throwback making you feel down right groovy. A fun trick is to line the cupid bow of the upper lip with this and blend it out for a more full lip look. In comparison having used Sephora’s brand eyeliner in white, not the worst but far from the best, the NYX pencil is simply better at all the tasks I’ve required.

The pure white is not hidden behind any glitter or shimmer it is a bright white color. The formula of this creamy pencil is perfect for applying easily on the waterline as well as a tug free application on the upper lid. Without having any irritation issues after a full eight hour day I couldn’t find any bleeding or dulling of the color either. Best part about this pencil is, if white is not your color don’t fret as there are thirty-nine other shades to choose from. And the price is so ridiculously low for such a high quality product I will have to grab a hand full for my shelf.

On The Shelf

Overview:

Maybelline Dream Pure BB/Dream Fresh BB (both in Light)

Purchase Price $8.99 ea + tax

Retailer Local Ulta

Check out  www.maybelline.com for product info

Product Review:

Although these two may look like twins they are far from identical so here’s my breakdown of these sibling BB creams.

Pure BB – This is Maybelline’s first BB cream with blemish fighting properties by containing two percent salicylic acid making it an easy choice for those with acne prone or oily skin. A creamy consistency with a light makeup scent, not medicinal, that does not linger after it has dried makes this a great standalone product. This cream is a designed to be a light coverage product but can be built up to a suitable medium. I have noticed a long set time before being able to apply a powder. This has lead me to an issue of using this as a primer/base for liquid foundation, it simply does not work as one. It appears to break down to a smearing oily mess, which is surprising since it has no oil in it, which has too much movement on the skin and wipes off the skin.

There is a definite reduction in redness, breakouts, and is a great clear skin barrier when used just with a setting powder.

Fresh BB – After this one came out on the market I tried it with great hopes, all of which were dashed when realizing application with fingers and or brushes was a nightmare. So after purchasing a Beauty Blender I figured give this another shot and PRESTO what a night and day difference. I was able to get an even buildable coverage in a solid shade (still a tad dark/warm for my true tone) which worked for my “lighter/cleaner” looks. As with the Dream BB the setting time is longer than I would like so after application I usually do my hair and then finish my makeup look. Having great success as a primer/base I will often use this then go to my foundation (both powder and liquid have worked with this one for me) and then to a setting powder. Although having adverse reaction to anything containing SPF I have had minimal breakouts with this product.

Using both of these BBs I have no major complaints as they are great additions to my shelf. I however recommend if anyone were to venture out and buy these, purchase a Beauty Blender first as you will never regret having one regardless. The similarities were; the color of both (which happened to be a tad dark for me), the setting time, and price. But the differences between them was noticeable after weeks of use. I will be repurchasing the Dream Fresh BB due to its compatibility with one of my favorite liquid foundations.

On The Shelf

Overview:

L’Oréal Voluminus Miss Manga Mascara

Purchase Price $7.99 + tax

Retailer Local Ulta

Check out www.lorealparis.com for product info

Product Review:

Almost out of no-where came this wonderful find that should be on everyone’s lashes. The eye catching packaging is for the true manga/anime fan hands down, but this is a mascara for ANYONE! Pretty in pink “360° Flexor Brush to build bold volume” works but newbies to the ways of the wand be careful as this will take a few strokes to find the proper application pressure. This “Voluminus” formula does work as it thickens and adds visible length. As it does not seem to separate each lash but at the same time does not exactly clump. Non-irritating, quick to dry, and a solid black color are major pluses to this drug store priced mascara. Do not be fooled by the price on this one, because two coats and anyone will have va-va-voom lashes without the smudging. Easy to remove with a makeup remover or lotion.

Having stayed true to my higher end brand mascaras I was in total disbelief when this worked greater than I could have ever expected. I gave up on a lot of “drug store” priced products especially mascara since all the ones I used always smudged or were irritating and never accomplished their claims. Hopefully this is more than just a gimmick to sell more mascara for L’Oréal and they will continue to have this one around for a while because this is simply a natural repurchase for my shelf.

On The Shelf

Overview:

Redken Extreme Anti-Snap        

Purchase Price $17.50 + tax

Retailer Local Ulta

Check out www.redken.com  for product info

Product Review:

This is one of those hair products I can’t do without for when my hair is feeling less than 100% and now especially during highlight season. Always a quick seller during sales at my local Ulta and for good reason. Made specifically for distressed and damaged hair this product protects against breakage and spilt ends but also is a fantastic thermal protectant when blowing out or straightening hair with an iron. Using this straight out of the shower on damp hair I can almost feel my hair almost instantly sucking in all of this wonderful product like a plant. The noticeable difference for me is at the end of the day after application it feels so much softer. When applied daily to dry hair it gives a great shine factor without a greasy look or feel.  

The secret seems to be in the 3D repair complex along with other ingredients that make hair become healthy, split end, and frizz free. The proteins help build internal strength while the Ceramide adds to cuticle reinforcement and the natural lipids aid in protective resurfacing of the hair. The consistency of this white serum is creamy and non-tacky which make applying with your hands simple. It does not leave hair heavy like some conditioning lotions or serums but after it is applied hair is bouncy and appears to help in adding volume as well. It reminds me of a fresh out of the salon smell but not in a chemical way leaving a mild and clean odor to hair without a heavy perfume scent.

I highly recommend this to anyone if you can get your hands on it for that extra love and care for your hair. As with most salon branded products this does have a price tag to match so when I can find it on sale you bet I stock up!

On The Shelf

Overview:

Lime Crime Lipstick Great Pink Planet    

Purchase Price $18 (Purchased NYC IMATS 2014)

Retailer www.limecrime.com

Check out www.limecrime.com  for product info

Product Review:

Having been a huge fan of Doe Deere’s style for some time, creator of Lime Crime, I was super excited to see their booth at the 2014 NYC IMATS. Unfortunately I missed out on her meet and greet the day I attended but as luck had it my friend and I were the last two allowed to make purchases at the booth that day. If you need an example of the popularity of this company the line alone wrapped around several other booths and even though I was supposed to be the last in line at least twenty others either cut or got into the line behind me. At this point security stepped in and waved people away informing them that the booth was going to be closing and had sold out its products for the day.  After waiting for two hours in this line to finally get to the register and see what was available for purchase I was heartbroken because all the lipstick shades I wanted were gone. I intended on purchasing Babette a color which is extremely popular and always sold out online.

Cash in hand and having waited in line I was determined to purchase something. Seeing Great Pink Planet I grabbed it and instantly loved the color. This vegan and cruelty free line of makeup offers this absolutely gorgeous pink shade which is highly pigmented and opaque for super color saturation. This lipstick applies very well as it is super creamy. And of course a yummy scent of sweet vanilla always helps. This is one of those colors you’d see Barbie wearing, fun loving summer pastel pink with a unique twist. The formula is perfect in my opinion long wearing without drying your lips or staining which seems to happen with a lot of long wear colors.

Now to the downside, currently this is one of those lipsticks that is only available online so expect to pay shipping but the price is worth it if you are a connoisseur of all things pink.

On The Shelf

Overview:

Seaweed Night Cream

Purchase Price $20 (1oz)

Retailer www.mariobadescu.com (Nordstrom, Ulta)

Check out www.mariobadescu.com  for product info

Product Review:

When I think of seaweed two thoughts cross my mind. First, my six year old self off the coast of Carmel getting entangled in what I thought was an octopus, and next, high end spas where women set down their Louis Vuitton and Hermes bags to be wrapped in this underwater delight. I’ve finally found the perfect seaweed product that will make you skin feel like a million bucks without the price tag.

But first a crash course in why seaweed is so highly sought after in the skincare/beauty world. It contains a list of vitamins including folic acid, niacin, and is also rich in antioxidants. Seaweed has the ability to repair, moisturize, and boost the blood flow all while preventing more damage to your skin. This is why so many people around the world also eat seaweed as it is part of their cultural diets perhaps unbeknownst to them its health aiding properties.

Housed in a simple white plastic jar this subtle mint green concoction is not offensive to the nose as it is not exactly pleasing in my opinion either. This product is one of those, “it smells like a skincare product” odors meaning it may have a more mature scent but don’t worry after application it is odorless. The cream itself is not greasy or oily in any way and instantly made my skin feel so much softer to the touch. Overnight as it worked its magic I woke up to soft supple radiant skin fully feeling moisturized and ready for the morning sun. This is one of those magic in a jar potions that anyone with sensitive skin or concerns of moisture loss would highly benefit from. Being thirty this products has definitely not only saved me time but also money as I don’t feel the need to worry so much if I skip on my morning facial moisturizer. Of course those who are more mature or younger could always appreciate this too as skincare is important for your entire life.

Mario Badescu has made a regular appearance on my shelf due to their high quality products, simple packaging, and also the need not to advertise all over the place with celebrities endorsing them. This company has had a reputation built on word of mouth and simply making GREAT products they stand behind. This is why all their products will eventually find their way on my shelf!