Bobbi Brown High Shimmer Lip Gloss in Pink Tulle & Bellini

According to Bobbi Brown, "Bobbi's new lip gloss combines gorgeous, light-catching shimmer with lasting, non-sticky shine. Made with fine pearls and clear pigments, High Shimmer Lip Gloss stays color-true and gives lips beautiful, brilliant dimension. Plus it's enriched with emollients and Vitamins C and E to moisturize, condition and protect lips, so they feel as good as they look. Whether you wear it on its own or on top of your favorite Lip Color, the new tapered applicator lets you apply it like a pro."

I have to say that I agree with all of their claims! This is a sheer formula filled with gorgeous multidimensional pearl that makes your lips shiny and luminous. The formula, indeed, is non-sticky and moisturizing with a minty fresh taste/scent that dissipates soon after application. The new tapered doe foot applicator is a vast improvement over the ineffective brush applicators of yesteryear- making application a breeze.

The two colors that I chose are: Bellini (accurately described as a nude pink with pearl) and Pink Tulle (fittingly described as a hot pink with pearl). I really like the formula- it's comfortable and flattering in all of its glistening goodness. However, as is true with less sticky lip glosses you will experienced significantly reduced wear time. This doesn't bother me in the least as this is a very comfortable moisturizing gloss with high shine impact that is teetering on the edge of a treatment product. These are truly lovely lip glosses, I cannot imagine anyone being disappointed with this formula because of the many merits it boasts. However, those expecting opaque coverage in a gloss will find these too sheer for their liking. The opacity in the tube does not translate to the lips- they really are quite quite sheer. That said, these little sparking gems are equally happy on top of your favorite lipstick, or alone-- so even opaque gloss lovers can benefit from the enhancement these beauties will offer to their favorite lipsticks.

Aren't they beautiful as they glisten in the sun?!

Overall assessment: I'm very pleased with these High Shimmer Lip Glosses- the formula is comfortable with the perfect amount of cushion and moisture. I love the high impact shine, and the new applicator is fantastic. I have never been one to feel unhappy about lip glosses that are sheer, therefore this formula is one that I will get a great deal of use out of, and I will likely replace them when I use them up. However,  people that want an opaque gloss with high color pay off shouldn't expect those attributed from this formula otherwise they will be disappointed. I love these!!

$23.00 .24 oz. I bought mine at Macy's. Sold at Bobbi Brown counters and online from Bobbi Brown directly.

My Prime Skin Recovery Formula- Review

About My:
My Prime Anti-Aging Formulas combine pure Asian botanicals with advanced skincare science.
We are proud to introduce our debut collection of premium anti-aging essentials. In keeping with the highest standards for beauty formulas, all of our products are enclosed in unique airless packaging, which protects our ingredients from external contaminants while dispensing the perfect dose up until the last drop. We invite you to make My yours, and journey to a better you. (source)

One of the great secrets to this luxurious skincare line can be found in the use of Pili and Moringa Oils that function as the "cornerstone of select My Prime Anti-Aging Formulas. Rich in antioxidants and omega fatty acids, these extraordinary botanical oils have historically been used by Filipino women to achieve healthy, ageless skin." To read more about Pili and Moringa oils click here.

Pili Oil is "indigenous to the fertile Bicol region of the Philippines, the Canarium Ovatum (“Pili”) tree is the source of a superior restorative oil that contains high concentrations of omega fatty acids and Vitamins A and E. These age-defying ingredients allow Pili oil to rejuvenate the skin by infusing it with deep hydration while also calming redness and inflammation. Moreover, compared to olive oil, Pili oil contains more beta-carotene (a known Vitamin A source), which encourages cell renewal and improves the look of fine lines and wrinkles. Pili oil is gentle enough for all skin types, and absorbs easily into the skin to impart a light, youthful glow. To ensure the purity of the oil, local Filipino farmers grow the Pili tree without fertilizers or pesticides. The farmers then manually extract the oil from the pulp of the Pili fruit without using any additives." (source)
Moringa Oil is "widely cultivated in the Philippines, the Moringa Oleifera tree is considered one of the most nutritious plants on the planet. Living up to its reputation as a “miracle tree,” the Moringa tree is packed with omega fatty acids and a multitude of antioxidants including Vitamins A, C, and E. Nutritionally, it contains more Vitamin A than carrots, more Vitamin C than oranges, more potassium than bananas, and more calcium and protein than milk. Moringa oil is extracted from the seeds of the tree using environmentally sustainable practices. Supercharged with anti-aging benefits, this lightweight oil penetrates deep into the skin to enhance proper cell growth, replenish hydration, and bolster the skin’s natural defense against environmental attack. In addition, its high concentration of Vitamin C makes Moringa oil a natural skin brightener that helps even skin tone. Moringa oil is suitable for all skin types." (source)

Click here for an overview of My, and here my review of My Weightless Eye Cream, here for my review of My Multi-Purpose Mattifying Moisturizer, and here for my review of the Transformative Night Cream.

My Skin Recovery Formula is a lightweight, skin-brightening treatment that targets skin damage while simultaneously imparting a healthy dewy glow.
Among the Chief benefits:

• Brightens and evens skin tone for a radiant look
• Promotes skin firmness and resilience
• Diminishes the appearance of age spots, acne marks, and wrinkles
• Soothes redness and inflammation

Here's what I found after using it daily for over a month: Initially I only used Skin Recovery Formula at night, but when I saw how wonderful my skin looked at felt, I decided to use it both night and day. It really does brighten the skin- my skin has an unmistakable healthy radiant glow or luminosity to it- as though lit from within.  There is an evenness of texture and tone to my skin that negates the necessity to wear a foundation. While I have no age spots or acne marks, I do have a few areas with sun damage, that have markedly diminished. I also don't have wrinkles to combat so much as expression lines, and their depth has undoubtedly been lessened. While I do not tend to have much redness, as a general rule, I did have the opportunity to put My's claims to the test about soothing redness and inflammation.  At my recent yearly physical I had my doctor freeze off a mole on my forehead which left an inflamed red mess in its wake, as it began to heal it left behind tender pink skin that I didn't want to have scar or become hyperpigmented. Therefore, in addition to slathering on copious amounts of sunscreen, I applied Skin Recovery Formula 2-3/x a day, and now miraculously that area is nearly the color of the surrounding tissue.

This is a powerhouse peptide rich anti-aging serum that boosts microcirculation for a luminous effect. It effectively combats redness, age and sun spots, acne scars, and wrinkles, and gives skin a firm and even appearance. It feels wonderfully nourishing on the skin, and it sinks in very quickly. I really love the way that my skin looks and feels when I use this product, and I really could see the difference when I went from using it once a day to using it twice a day. The real shock was how quickly it healed the reddened inflamed tissue from my mole removal. It astounds me how vastly improved skincare products are as a result of all of the advanced technologies employed in their making, and My is certainly a prime example of just that. If you are looking for results, look no further.

How to use: After cleansing each morning and night, apply to face and neck. Gently massage into skin.  Follow with your moisturizer, but for optimal results use MY Prime Multi-Purpose Mattifying Moisturizer.

Key Sciences:

• ALPAFLOR® GIGAWHITE™: A gentle, preservative-free botanical complex that noticeably improves skin tone, and diminishes the appearance of skin discoloration associated with sun damage and acne marks.
• SYN-®COLL: An anti-aging peptide that helps boost natural collagen production, promotes skin firmness and resilience, and minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• TIMECODE™: A complexion enhancer that restores luminosity by calming inflammation, reducing redness, and improving microcirculation.
• Pili + Moringa Oils: Soothing botanicals that smooth, hydrate, and revive dull-looking skin with omega fatty acids and Vitamins A, C and E.

Research Results:                                                                                                                    
In an independent, eight-week clinical study:

• 70% of subjects showed an increase in skin firmness and tautness in the jowl area.
• 67% of subjects showed an improvement in skin tone radiance.
• 60% of subjects showed a reduction in mottled hyperpigmentation.
• 60% of subjects showed a reduction in wrinkles in the forehead area.
• 80% of subjects agreed that this product improved skin tone.
• 80% of subjects agreed that this product improved the overall appearance of skin.
• 87% of subjects said they would recommend this product to friends and family.

Ingredients: Purified Water, Glycerin, Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Extract, Primula Veris Extract, Alchemilla Vulgaris Extract, Veronica Officinalis Extract, Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract, Achillea Millefolium Extract, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Extract, Cetearyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Squalane, Ceteareth-20, Glyceryl Dilaurate, Palmitoyl Glycine, Canarium Ovatum (Pili) Pulp Oil, Moringa Oleifera (Moringa) Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Panthenol (Provitamin B5), Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Retinol Molecular Film Fluid, Disodium EDTA, Mango Fruit Extract, Papaya Fruit Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Carbomer, Polysorbate 20, Phenoxyethanol (and) Caprylyl Glycol (and) Sorbic Acid, Triethanolamine, Alcohol

My's founder and CEO, Tessa Yutadco, has implemented social responsibility initiatives that were specifically designed to improve the lives of the Filipino women and men who harvest and extract the Pili and Moringa oils used in My products (read more here). It is also important to note that the Pili and Moringa oils are sustainably harvested, and are grown without fertilizers or pesticides. Unlike so many skincare companies, My is uncompromising in the commitment to quality ingredients, healthy products, social responsibility, and transparency in everything they do. It is for these reasons, coupled with the sheer quality of the products, that I am so excited to have found My! Did I mention that My is CRUELTY FREE?!

Tessa takes her social responsibility initiatives very seriously, and as proof of this she has announced the following new partnership: August 8, 2012 through September 8, 2012 My will be donating 50% of the proceeds from ALL My purchases to Best Buddies International! Image source. My is one of the few companies out there that is ideologically in tune with the big picture-- not just in terms of providing the highest quality skincare, but also in terms of an innate awareness and respect of the needs of the world around us. Tessa really believes in both nurturing the skin, but more importantly in nurturing the planet and those who call it home. I absolutely believe in My, and in Tessa.

Overall assessment: Phenomenal product. Yet again, Tessa has hit it out of the park. You need My in your life-- I know I do! This is worth every last penny!

$88.00 1 fl. oz. from My and Dermstore. (Affiliate link)
PR sample provided. All opinions expressed are categorically my own. Photo of Pili & Moringa Oils, Best Buddies campaign photo, and videos courtesy of My.

Suki Lip Repair Butter- The Perfect Matte Lip Balm that I Discovered is the Best Lip Primer!

I find that many lipsticks and lip glosses take more out of my lips than they give to them. My lips are fairly sensitive, and drier formulas and matte lipsticks often cause them to crack and peel. It often begs the question as to whether such formulas should be abandoned altogether, or used with greater care. That said, with the fall season rapidly approaching there will invariably be a plethora of tempting vampy lipsticks that will undoubtedly strike my fancy, many of which will surely wreak havoc on my lips. While I was looking through my beauty arsenal seeking a decent solution, an old friend emerged from my overcrowded drawer filled with lip balms, lipsticks, and lip glosses. Suki Lip Repair Butter excels as a lipstick base where other lip balms fail- principally because of its unique matte formula. This means you can dab it on your lips to lock in moisture, and it will not encourage your lipstick to slide off, feather, or bleed- as is often the case with emollient formulas with lots of slip. While this lip balm is surely intended for the sole purpose of moisturizing and protecting the lips- the matte formula makes it peerless, and by default it is the most extraordinary and healthy lip primer/base that I have tried. This little gem will simultaneously moisturize and protect your lips from environmental assaults including, but not limited to, harsh climates and harsh lipsticks! It will also extend the life of your lipstick multifold.

Suki Lip Repair Butter is an ingenious and unassuming little balm that is " a thick, densely hydrating, matte lip treatment designed to provide long-lasting protection." It is filled with omega oils and fatty acids (jojoba), Vitamin E (non-gmo soy) & bisabolols (chamomile).  While it is a matte balm, it deeply "moisturizes and protects lips from environmental aggressors, soothes redness, chapping, discomfort and chaffing."

Source

Ingredients: cera alba (beeswax), vitis vinifera (grape) seed oil, helianthus annuus (sunflower) oil, simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) seed oil, tocopherols mixed (vitamin e), calendula officinalis (calendula) flower extract, chamomilla recutita (matricaria) extract & squalene, *aroma/fragrance, citral (*component of 100% pure essential oils). All Suki products are Cruelty-Free!

Overall assessment: This is the best lip balm, that doubles as a base for other lip products, that I know of. It is the only lip balm in my sizable stash that doubles as an effective lip primer. The only disappointment that I have is that it took me so many years to think to use this as a lip primer, and I have been using Suki Lip Repair Balm for many years now!

$10.95 0.34 oz.  I have purchased several from Suki directly, but have also purchased this lip balm from Whole Foods.  Click here for a store locator near you.

Lola's Secret Beauty Blog Milestone- as Noted by Zeus

As I was sitting and working, feeling a bit frustrated and tired- Zeus urged me to take a break and  look at Lola's Secret Beauty Blog for a moment since I had been too busy to take a peek all day. He assured me that my frustration and fatigue would, at least temporarily, be replaced by glee. So per his request (who am I to argue with Zeus after all), I took at look at the blog to find that we had indeed achieved a notable milestone that snuck up on me sooner than expected. I therefore need to thank you for your loyal readership and friendship- because these numbers would not be what they are in just over 9 months time were it not for you. Truth be told, I started this blog for me for fun, but I now am proud to say that I maintain it for you as well! You inspire me every day! Your comments and emails make me very happy, and while I may tempt you with the things that I love-- you do the same to me! I love the reciprocal nature of what we have forged.

Stats:
Blog born November 6, 2011
215,532 unique visits
524 Posts
2524 comments
1110 subscribers through various media (not including RSS feed)
1500-2400 views each day lately
I have forged friendships with so many readers and fellow bloggers
I have made it onto the blog rolls of many of my very favorite bloggers
I have forged relationships with numerous PR companies
I have become a member of 6 industry groups
I participate in three different weekly roundups
Klout Score 45
I have posted something everyday since starting the blog

What I find quite interesting is that the blog has begun to take on a life its own- so it will be very interesting to see how it evolves. I no longer simply view Lola's Secret Beauty Blog as my blog-- it really feels like our blog!

 ...And all of this for simply pursuing a hobby about my skincare and makeup obsessions! A heartfelt thanks to you from the bottom of my heart! xoxo

Intelligent Nutrients Certified Organic Hand Sanitizer- REVIEW

I realize that a hand sanitizer is hardly a sexy product to talk about, but as the flu season quickly approaches it seems like a good topic of conversation. This seems particularly true for all of us who proudly forge on like warrior princesses to our nearest makeup counters to swatch new collections that have been swatched by countless others with their germy little flu fingers. There is also the entire issue of hand sanitizer overuse and resistant strains of bacteria, and what we seem to have is the perfect storm for the next bug that comes around.

Certified Organic Hand Sanitizer comes in a convenient spray bottle that is easily transported, but one of the things that I really love about this product is that it isn't sticky or unpleasant. It also smells very nice- making it pleasant to use.

According to Intelligent Nutrients, "Get clean without the overkill. This leaves hands clean and feeling that way-not sticky or stripped but soft and hydrated with 99.9% of bacteria eradicated. Chemical-free. It is a safe, effective alternative to preventing the spread of germs and impurities." The idea that his product can destroy 99.99% of the bad bacteria without doing any harm is music to my ears. They also claim that with their products "you do not have to worry about the chemical anti-anythings that result in new, resistant strains of bacteria showing up on your hands."

Ingredients: Alcohol Denat (Active Ingredient), Water,  Ethyl Palmate,1  Castor Oil,1  Glycerin,1 Nigella Sativa (Black Cumin) Seed Oil,1,2 Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Oil,1,2 Rubus Idaeus (Red Raspberry) Seed Oil,1,2 Vitis Vinifera (Red Grape) Seed Oil,1,2 Vaccinium Marcocarpon (Cranberry) Seed Oil,1,2  Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil,1 Vanilla Planifolia Fruit (Natural Flavor),1 Vanilla Plantifolia Fruit Oil,1 Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Oil,1 Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, 1 Limonene,1,3 Tocopherol (Vitamin E).

Key Points:
1) Certified Organic
2) Antioxidant Intellimune ® Seed Oil Complex
3) Naturally Occurring Component of Organic Essential Oil Blend

Does NOT Contain:
1) Triclosan
2) Propylene Glycol
3) Silicones
4) Petrochemicals
5) Parabens
6) Phthalates
7) Artificial Fragrance

Overall assessment: I never go swatching without it! You can be sure that I will use at least one of these up during this upcoming flu season.

$12.00 2 oz. Where to find.

Sponge Gel Katharistiko Wild Herb Cleanser- Review

Sponge Skincare products are made in Greece by a family who has been making natural skincare products for a period of more than thirty years.  According to Sponge, Gel Katharistiko Wild Herb Cleansing Gel cleanses and tones the skin, and is pH balanced and anti-oxidant rich, and this formula deeply cleanses while promoting clarity and radiance in all skin types.

Gel Katharistiko is made up of a tantalizing blend of hand-picked organic "wild-crafted" herbs and Olive Leaf that clarify, purify, nourish and hydrate the skin. Skin is left soft, supple, and hydrated-- never stripped or dry. Skin maintains a normal pH balance, and is left deeply cleaned and lusciously smooth. Additionally, using Gel Katharistiko is experiential: as you work this gentle cleanser into a lather the intoxicating aroma of the herbs explode, and they have a restorative and invigorating effect on the user. I have used lots and lots of cleansers, but none have made me feel such a sense of well being as this one does. The scent is simply delightful, and the results are astounding. My skin looks clean, hydrated, and glowing after use. My combination skin remains balanced, clean, soft, and happy, period.

Thus far the only Sponge products that I have purchased are Gel Katharistiko and Ladi Avokanto (reviewed here), and both have already achieved Holy Grail status for me-- which is quite rare. 

Overall assessment: This is my favorite cleanser now! I have never found a cleanser this gentle, effective, hydrating, non-stripping, non-drying, and glorious to use. This is great on my combination skin, and I suspect that people with dry skin will find it to be the perfect remedy to all of the stripping cleansers on the market that either leave behind a film, or strip the skin. This gets an A+++ in my book!

$30.00 3.4 oz./100ML from Dermstore. (Affiliate Link)
Copyright © 2012 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Beauty Blog Coalition Weekly Roundup for the Week Ending 8/25/12

Here are our top picks for your weekend beauty reading pleasure! Enjoy!

Clarisonic has just released a new Acne Cleansing Set. For more information, and a chance to win your own, head over to Blushing Basics.

NARS re-launched their Eyeliner Stylo line with new colors and formula. The Stepford Witch reviews and swatches these for you!

Retrodiva's Beauty checks out Neutrogena's new Shine Control primer, foundation, and powder. See if it really does keep the shine at bay.

Cosmetically Challenged has chosen her favorites from the China Glaze Bohemian Collection. Did any of your faves' make the cut?

Alison of the Advice Sisters wants to tell you why she's in love with Dimitri James (not actually the MAN, whom she's never met, but definitely his SKINN Cosmetics). The Perfect Palette is your perfect travel companion.

Destany at Confessions of a Sarcastic Mom thought she was losing her mind recently when she forgot the Deborah Lippmann True Blood nail polish she was wearing was scented...

Emily Hudspeth is Bringing the Beauty to You! Getting great deals and having great hair are 2 things that most girls love. See these great L'Oreal products that Emily scored and how she liked them.

Do you wear makeup to the gym? BeautyTidbits shares her opinion on troweling on cosmetics before a workout session.

Connie from Mimi's Mani's shares the anti-aging benefits and her love for Dalton Cosmetics.

Making Up the Midwest found the perfect yellow nail polish just in time for the transition to fall!

Stephanie Louise- All Things Beautiful swatches the 4 new shades from the Maybelline 24 Hour Color Tattoo line for fall...which are must-haves?

Discover an arsenal of beauty goodies that will keep your look bullet proof and that travel well! Mama Fashionista shares her tools for Beauty On The Go!

Who doesn't love a good beauty bargain? Christina from Curls N Pearls shares her latest makeup counter savings discovery.

Grab the men in your house! LuminousLacquer's fiance shares his thoughts on August's BirchBox Man!

TheFabZilla discovers an eye makeup remover that's natural, paraben-free and cruelty- free from an organic food store. Find out if it's a yay or nay.

The Beauty Professor took the recently-released Kat Von D Lock-It Tattoo Foundation on vacation...read all about her pleasant surprise!

Glitter.Gloss.Garbage is giving away two Eclos Anti-aging skincare sets!

BeautyJudy swatches and reviews the summer collection of a new, fashion-based nail polish brand, LVX.

Rie from Nails and Noms would like to introduce you to Takko Lacquer, a new indie polish brand that has a gorgeous range of shimmer, jelly, and duochrome polishes!

Lipgloss Break and Alberto VO5 are giving away a huge hair care prize package. Enter to win!

Make Up For Ever hits the spot with their lasting lip colors, Aqua Rouge. Beauty Info Zone has two of the these beauties to share with you.

Blushing Noir swatches the new Make Up For Ever Aqua Rouge to prove that a hot red lip CAN last all day!

Scottish Beauty Blog caught up with amazing Ana Cruzalegui and her team backstage at this year's Edinburgh International Fashion Festival and what a makeup extravaganza it was!

Fall calls for dark, rich hues! See how Phyrra used Manic Panic Voodoo Blue & Purple Haze to change her hair for Fall.

Ro's Raving about Fevour Cosmetics, a new mineral cruelty free cosmetics line.

Lola from Lola's Secret Beauty Blog has found THE Holy Grail face oil- Sponge Ladi Avokanto is heavenly, Cruelty-Free, and a healthy must-have miracle worker in a bottle!

Oh So Lacquered tries her first Sephora by OPI polish and is completely obsessed with this turquoise glitterfest!

Sheila from Painted Ladies takes you on a tour of the mascaras featured on the blog recently. Which mascara is the best?

Is your hair dry and unruly? Then the new Smooth Lock line from Redken might just be for you. Pammy Blogs Beauty tames her long, dry, highlighted locks with this great new line!

Laura from My Newest Addiction Beauty Blog swoons over the holo sparkles in an Island Girl nail polish.

Starting blogging but don't know what you should do? Cosmetics Aficionado shows you 5 blogging changes you can make today.

Ashley from Peek & Ponder shares a frosty purple eye makeup look and shows each step it took to create it.

Have you tried Pomegranate nail lacquer yet? Nidia at Lit from Within does her interpretation of the 'claw' nail art with Blue Screen of Death and Cyberspace.

Miss L from Beauty by Miss L reviewed Institut Arnaud Youthful Radiance Day Cream SPF5 that is for women in the age of 25-35 who wish to fight against the first signs of ageing.

Polarbelle finds a vacation in a palette with the NYX Be Free Palette; nearly everything you need in one box.

Hi, My Name is Lucy...

...and I don't believe that we have been properly introduced yet. I am the youngest member of my family, and I am still so small (I'm only 3 months old) that even the smallest kitty is way bigger than me. My mommy and daddy say that I need to become "potty trained," but I am- I trained myself to go potty whenever I need to- no matter where I may be. Well, except in my crate when I sleep because that would just be gross to go potty where you sleep!

 

I'm not too crazy about taking my bath each week, but mommy and daddy say that I get to smelling pretty funky- whatever that means. I really like jumping and running, and my mommy says that my legs are like pogo sticks because of the way I bounce straight up in the air. I can't tell if mommy is making fun of me, but she says that my back feet are pointed like little elf's shoes- and when I run down the hall with my pink bell toy she says I look and sound like one of Santa's little helpers. Of course she laughs so hard that it's hard to understand what she's actually saying. You laughing now, mommy?! I just went potty on your bath towel! I like chewing things, but shoes have to be my favorite, and your favorites are my favorites too! Anyhow, I think I'm ready for a little nap now- but I just wanted to say hi and introduce myself to you. Have a nice weekend- since that's what you humans seem to say. xo, Lucy

The Washington Post Features My Prime Skincare & Eco-Armour- CONGRATULATIONS Tessa, Robert & Zoe!

Click here to see The Washington Post coverage! Click here, here, here and here for my My Prime overview and reviews. Click here for my Eco-Armour reviews! As you can see, both made my August Favorites list! These two companies make fantastic products, and are owned and operated by forward thinking people who deserve all of the success in the world!! Congratulations- I am so proud of you!

The NARS Andy Warhol Collection- Sneak Peek!

Andy Warhol, New York City (1966) Marie Cosindas. Source

Andy Warhol. Flowers (1964). Source

Set to launch the first part of the Collection October 1st at Sephora, this eagerly anticipated collection has NARS & Warhol enthusiasts alike squealing with joy. All product images found here, and the Edie Sedgwick Warhol Screen Test (1965) and video from NARS. Are you excited?

This is a very interesting video well worth watching!

Kevyn Aucoin The Essential Eye Shadow Single in Goddess- Review & Swatches

Kevyn Aucoin Beauty 'The Essential' Eye Shadow Single in Goddess is described as a "deep copper."

According to Kevyn Aucoin Beauty, this "gorgeous shadow is designed to complement any look, whether your goal is an angelic glow or a devilish, smoky eye. Packaged in a slim, sleek compact with a mirror, this super-shimmery formula may be applied with rich intensity or playful sheerness, making it easy to take your look from day into night. With a super soft texture and a lasting, crease-free finish, the Essential Eye Shadow Singles are a must-have for any makeup bag."

One of the first things one notices is how rich and creamy this finely milled eye shadow is. It is ultra pigmented, silky smooth, and has absolutely no fall-out whatsoever. Goddess is a very rich and vibrant copper that is quite opaque, but can be sheered out as well. It has a soft metallic shimmer, but it is not a glitter-bomb gone wrong- instead it is a gorgeous, deeply saturated, and infinitely wearable shade. With or without a primer I experienced no creasing, though I do not have oily eyelids- therefore your wear time may vary.

 

Photograph taken in the direct summer sun.

This eye shadow is easy to wear, easy to apply, easy to blend, and stunningly gorgeous.

Ingredients: Talc, Silica, Zinc Stearate, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Diisopropyl Dimer Dilinoleate, Isopropyl Palmitate, Dimethicone, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Peel Extract, Carum Petroselinum (Parsley) Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Althaea Officinalis Rooot Extract, Centaurea Cyanus Flower Extract. May Contain (+/-): Mica, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides, Bismuth Oxychloride, Manganese Violet, Ultramarines, Chromium Hydroxide Green, Chromium Oxide Greens, Ferric Ferrocyanide, Red 40 Lake, Yellow 5 Lake, Blue 1 Lake, Carmine, Synthetic Fluorphogapite, Tin Oxide.

Overall assessment: I love the creamy texture, the color payoff, and the stunning shade. It really is a gorgeous eye shadow!

$28.00 0.07 oz. Available at Barneys & Nordstrom

Everyday Beauty is Having the Mother of ALL Blog Sales Beginning Friday, August 24 at 9:00AM!! The Proceeds are Being Donated to an Animal Shelter!!!

My friend Zuzu Petals, from Everyday Beauty, is having the blog sale to end all blog sales, period. This picture represents a mere 35% of what she's selling. Click here for more details! She will be shipping internationally- so nobody will be left out!

MAC By Request: Moth Brown Eye Shadow Comparison Swatches!

I thought that it might be helpful for you to see how Moth Brown compares to a few popular cooler leaning taupes with lavender or purple undertones. Click here for my MAC By Request Review & Swatches.

I thought that MAC Shale (reviewed here), NARS 413 BLKR (reviewed here), and NARS Lhasa (reviewed here) would be good choices to juxtapose to Moth Brown.

You can really see how cool-leaning Moth Brown is when seen next to 413 BLKR-- I think that they would look fantastic worn together.

I am not certain whether or not MAC plans on restocking Moth Brown, but if they do it's well worth purchasing.

MAC By Request: Moth Brown, Bait & Flash of Flesh- Review & Swatches

MAC By Request is a limited edition online only collection that MAC recently launched. As the name suggests, MAC fans were asked to vote for their favorite shades from past collections, and the products with the most votes would be relaunched for a limited time. The final collection was made up of three eye shadows, three lipglasses, and three lipsticks. Out of the nine piece collection I purchased Moth Brown Eyeshadow, Bait Lipglass, and Flash of Flesh Lipglass. Each piece is the collection costs $15.00, and there are still many things available.

I actually only planned on buying Moth Brown Eye Shadow (which is now sold out) because I am incapable of turning down a cool leaning taupe. MAC describes this gorgeous shade, which received 39,563 votes, as a "soft metallic grey/brown" with a frost finish. I actually see this color as more of a cool taupe with a purple undertone, and the finish reacts more like a Veluxe Pearl- it is soft and buttery smooth, highly pigmented, and it is not frosty so much as it has a lovely glow.

Bait Lipglass (shown in the center) is described as an "iris-pink with gold pearl" and it is a gorgeous pink indeed. Of all of the Lipglasses, Bait received the most attention with 34,045 votes, and I can certainly see why because it is such a lovely shade. Flash of Flesh, which received 27,707 votes,  is described as a "light nude pink with pearl." This shade has a certain mesmerizing complexity as the multidimensional pearl twinkles in the light-- it's GORGEOUS! Both Lipglasses are still available.

You can see the purple undertone  in the pan and in the swatch.

Left to right: Flash of Flesh, Bait, and Moth Brown.

Overall assessment: I am very happy that I picked these up.

$15.00 each from MAC online.

Empties Post: Volume I- August 2012

This is my first Empties post, and it is inspired by my friend Liz, better known in the blogosphere as Beauty Reductionista. It was her encouragement that prompted me to do this post in the first place. That said, Liz is the Empties goddess, and anything that I do will pale in comparison. Yet, I continually derive such a sense of vicarious satisfaction from her monthly empties that it feeds my nearly irrational need to use up the things that I purchase. I really hate waste- so the idea of tossing unused or partially used things out that I spent good money on just doesn't fit into the scheme of things for me. Add to that the fact that I am extremely dedicated to recycling empty containers- rather than having them end up in the landfill-- so documenting my progress is quite satisfying.

Haircare products: I really loved every single last drop of the Oribe Signature Masque and Conditioner- both were very moisturizing- which is essential for my naturally curly hair. This is an expensive luxury line, but the products are really high quality and lovely. I still have some of their shampoo left, as well as a very nice curl enhancing cream styling product. I am a big fan of Davines shampoos, conditioners, and styling products, and have used many more than the three shown here. The Kim Vo Radiant Styling Creme was a nice product, but I didn't find it particularly unique. I have always liked Aveda's Shampure Shampoo-- so it took no effort to empty the travel size that I had. The TRESemmé Anti-Frizz Secret was good for frizz, but I didn't really like the lingering smell that it left behind (unless I love the scent, I don't want to get whiffs of it throughout the day).

Skincare: As you are well aware, I am a skincare fanatic-- and I always have been. If I had to choose between skincare and makeup, I would choose skincare every time. The Clé de Peau La Créme was a hand-me-down from my mom-- it is a luxurious rich cream, but I think that it was a bit too rich for my combination skin. The Natura Bissé Diamond Cream was another hand-me-down from mom, this is another expensive luxury cream that is rich, but so quickly absorbed. I really really like this product, plus their Diamond eye cream is spectacular. The Creme de la Mer was yet another hand-me-down from mom. It is a bit too rich for my skin, and it contains petrolatum and mineral oil-- which often causes me to break out, and gives me milia. Their gel moisturizer is much better suited to my skin. Those are not my first Sunday Riley empties, just the most recent ones. The clear empty bottle in the lower left is MAKE UP FOR EVER Sens'Eyes makeup remover-- I love this stuff-- it is gentle, yet effective, and it removes even the toughest waterproof formulas.

Makeup and Fragrance: When it comes to fragrance samples, if I don't like the way that they smell on me- then I use them as room spray near the kitty litter box-- it does wonders! The small bottle in the upper right is an essential oil that I used to add fragrance to some jojoba oil that I was using as a body oil-- it's a easy and inexpensive way to personalize scents. I just finished my Chanel Stylo Yeux Waterproof Long-Lasting Eyeliner in Espresso-- I have used up many of these over the years-- they are really fantastic. The empty pan beneath it was a Trish McEvoy blush that my mom gave me-- it was nice, but nothing too exciting. The Suki Color Tinted Active Moisturizer is a very nice product that contains salicylic acid and white willow- keeping oily skin in check, and giving it beautiful medium coverage.

Body Care: The Marc Jacobs Blush Body Cream was a nearly full hand-me-down from my sister, and truth be told the fragrance didn't mesh with my body chemistry as well as I had hoped-- it was okay on me, but definitely not great. The Williams-Sonoma Hand Lotion, on the other hand, was great down to the last drop. I am a fan of Tom's Deodorants, and have been using them since I was a teenager. The lavender is nice, but I prefer some of their other scents on me. The Body Shop DeoDry Deodorant was pretty nice, but now that I am using my Kai Deodorant everything else is just another deodorant.

There really is something supremely satisfying about seeing all of these empties, and now knowing that I can send them on their merry way to the recycle center. Have you finished many products recently?