Affordable Stocking Stuffers

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If you are seeking some super affordable stocking stuffers, I have a few that are definitely worthwhile. The makeup is fun and affordable, and it's perfect for the holiday festivities– including New Years Eve.

Sleek MakeUP Vintage Romance I-Divine Eyeshadow Palette ($12.99 from Ulta and Walgreens): Thankfully this wonderful UK beauty brand made its way to our shores a few years ago, and the inherent affordability of their products should not lead one to the assumption that these are low quality products. In fact, their products are high quality and perfectly on trend. This eyeshadow palette boasts finely milled powder shadows that are creamy to the touch. They glide across the skin effortlessly, deposit saturated pigmented color evenly and they are long-wearing.

According to Sleek MakeUP,

Our legendary i-Divine palettes are 12 shades of super-pigmented, long-lasting, mineral based eyeshadow, designed to suit all. Each i-Divine contains pearlescent shades, which contain mica particles that highlight and illuminate giving an overall radiant effect. Available in a variety of colour ways, your i-Divine is waiting for you. You have everything you need to experiment away and recreate any look or trend you like.

Benefits:
- Includes shimmering purples, intense ultra violet and smoldering gold shades
- Includes a matte dark color, ideal for definition or perfecting a classic smoky effect

Ingredients: Mica, Talc, Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil), Magnesium Stearate, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Dimethicone, Methylparaben, Propylparaben. May Contain: CI 77891 (Titanium Dixoide), CI 77491 (Iron Oxides), CI 77492 (Iron Oxides), CI 77499 (Iron Oxides), CI 16035 (Red 40), CI 77742 (Manganese Violet), CI 77510 (Ferric Ferrocyanide), CI 75470 (Carmine).

Sleek MakeUP Cleopatra's Kiss Highlighting Palette ($14.99 for 0.317 oz. from Ulta and FeelUnique): This highlighting palette features two ultra-finely milled powder highlighters that are velvety creamy to the touch, and two cream highlighters with a lovely luxurious texture. Both of the creams and powders offer lovely luminous finishes that can be built up for more luminosity and pigmentation, or applied with a light-hand for a very soft glow.

According to Sleek MakeUP,

Sleek MakeUP's versatile face and body Cleopatra's Kiss Highlighting Palette includes two velvety powders and two luxurious cream formulas. The golden, metallic finishes add a radiant and luminous glow to the skin.

Sleek MakeUP Cleopatra's Kiss Highlighting Palette Ingredients: Baked Powder: Mica, Dimethicone, Nylon-12, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben. May Contain: CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), CI 77491 (Iron Oxides), CI 77499 (Iron Oxides).

Cream: Ethylhexyl Pamitate, Mica, Dimethicone, Ozokerite, Isononyl Isononanoate, Caprylyl Methicone, Propylparaben, BHT. May Contain: CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), CI 77491 (Iron Oxides), CI 77499 (Iron Oxides).

PÜR Cosmetics Fully Charged Mascara ($22.00 for .44 oz. from PÜR Cosmetics and Ulta): Whether you are looking to fill a stocking, or you want a mascara that lengthens and thickens your own lashes for a dramatic holiday look, then this is definitely a good one to consider.

According to PÜR,

This anti-aging mascara formula contains a revolutionary positively charged matrix that attracts to each individual lash to strengthen, thicken, lengthen and separate for unparalleled performance.

Benefits:
- Unique Magnetic Force Formula wraps a positively charged elastic veil around each lash to lift and separate while adding maximum volume without clumping.
- Fortified with a specialized blend of provitamin B5 and Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1 to help condition and strengthen to prevent lash loss.
- Carnauba and beeswax set lashes to maintain precise definition all day or all night.

Ingredients: Aqua, Cera Alba (Beeswax), Cyclopentasiloxane, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Alcohol Denat., Palmitic Acid, Nylon-12, VP/Eicosene Copolymer, Stearic Acid, Triethanolamine, Acacia Senegal Gum, Glycerin, Polybutene, Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1, Panthenol, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Polyquaternium-10, Polyvinyl Alcohol, VP/VA Copolymer, Aminomethyl Propanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Propylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Iron Oxides (CI 77499).

PÜR Cosmetics Triple Threat Slimline Mascara ($22.00 from PÜR Cosmetics and Ulta): If what you are seeking is a slim wand mascara that lengthens, curls lashes and adds volume, then this is a nice and effective formula worthy of your consideration.

According to PÜR,

Ready for a mascara that does it all? Triple Threat provides extreme length, curl and volume. The innovative brush grips both the top and bottom lashes at their base and effortlessly combs through them for precise application and ultimate definition while the super formula conditions lashes and help prevent premature fallout.

Ingredients: Aqua, Glyceryl Stearate, Propylene Glycol, C18-36 Acid Triglyceride, PVP, Cetyl Palmitate, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax , Nylon-12, Stearic Acid, VP/Eicosene Copolymer, Steareth-20, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Extract, Emblica Officinalis Fruit Extract, Steareth-2, Panthenol, Aminomethyl Propanol, Xanthan Gum, Glycerin, Chlorphenesin, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Iron Oxides (CI 77499).

PÜR Chrome Glaze High-Shine Lip Gloss in DIY ($18.00 from PÜR Cosmetics and Amazon): This lip gloss is a little thicker than some, and it clings to the lips while providing some moisture. It is a little bit tacky, but not enough to be uncomfortable on the lips. It deposits color evenly and it doesn't migrate or feather. DIY is a pretty sheer peachy shade that offers little color on the lips alone, but it is a beautiful topper for lipsticks, and it offers a lovely shiny finish.

According to PÜR,

This lightweight, highly pigmented lip color utilizes gel technology to coat lips in vivid color and intense shine. The chrome-like gloss provides pigment without traveling or fading. Provides hydration and moisture back to the lips, nourishes lips and provides antioxidant protection.

 PÜR Chrome Glaze High-Shine Lip Gloss in DIY

Greenerways Organic Relaxation Kit ($14.99 for 6 oz. total from Greenerways Organic): This Relaxation Kit features three 2 oz. bottles of wonderful body and massage oils that moisturize the skin while calming and quieting the mind. Each of the oils smell utterly delectable, and sink into the skin quickly.

According to Greenerways,

Greenerways Organic 100% USDA Certified Organic Body Oils are an absolute necessity for healthy and glowing skin without any chemicals or artificial ingredients.  Our phytonutrient-rich body oils are silky, smooth and moisturize your skin without leaving any heavy oily residue. With essential-oils sourced directly from certified organic farms around the world, we are proud to bring you truly seed-to-shelf products. 

Kick back and revitalize your body and mind with our Relaxation Body Oils 3 Pack. 

Relaxation Kit Contains:

Tranquility (2oz) made with 100% Organic Rosemary & Cedarwood Oils

De-Stress (2oz) made with 100% Organic Lavender Oils

Muscle Relax (2oz) made with 100% Organic Eucalyptus & Peppermint Oils

Benefits: No Alcohol | No Artificial Ingredients | No Parabens | Quick Drying | USDA Certified Organic | NSF & QAI Certified Organic | Peta Vegan & Cruelty Free Certified | Non-GMO Certified.

Greenerways Daily Essentials Kit ($14.99 for 6 oz. total from Greenerways Organic): The Daily Essentials Kit is a nice combination of nourishing and hydrating oils that each address different concerns. For instance, Invigorate is perfect to awaken the senses while moisturizing the skin. De-Stress, with its delectable Lavender Oils, really calms the mind and soothes the senses. Nourish, which is made from an Almond Oil blend, is deeply nourishing and hydrating for dry winter skin.

According to Greenerways,

Greenerways Organic 100% USDA Certified Organic Body Oils are an absolute necessity for healthy and glowing skin without any chemicals or artificial ingredients.  Our phytonutrient-rich body oils are silky, smooth and moisturize your skin without leaving any heavy oily residue. With essential-oils sourced directly from certified organic farms around the world, we are proud to bring you truly seed-to-shelf products. 

Start your day fresh, healthy, and invigorated with our Daily Essentials Body Oils 3 Pack. 

Daily Essentials Kit Contains:

- Invigorate (2oz) made with 100% Organic Lemon & Grapefruit Oils

- De-Stress (2oz) made with 100% Organic Lavender Oils

- Nourish (2oz) made with 100% Almond Oil Blend Oils 

Benefits: No Alcohol | No Artificial Ingredients | No Parabens | Quick Drying | USDA Certified Organic | NSF & QAI Certified Organic | Peta Vegan & Cruelty Free Certified | Non-GMO Certified.

7th Heaven Masks ($1.99+ each from 7th Heaven and Walmart): are fun, affordable, cruelty-free and effective. They draw out impurities and leave skin soft and smooth. They apply as a gel but when they dry they transform into a rubbery mask that you peel off in sheets. They are so fun to use– especially when you get to peel them off!

Crystal Mineral Deodorant Stick ($6.99for 4.25 oz. from The Crystal and Swanson Health Products): This unique mineral stone, made of a single ingredient (Ammonium Alum Mineral Salts), effectively controls odor all day and it neither stains my clothing, nor does it irritate my sensitive skin. You simply moisten the top of the stone and apply it to your underarms, and then return it back to its dish, or close the lid of the stick. This is not an antiperspirant, and therefore will not prevent sweating.

Crystal Body Deodorant Stone ($6.99 for 5 oz. plus dish from The Crystal and Swanson Health Products): This one is particularly handy because it comes with its own storage dish.

According to Crystal,

The Original Mineral Deodorant, this smooth, contoured mineral stone eliminates and blocks odor before it starts without harmful or harsh chemicals offering long-lasting, natural mineral protection for up to 24 hours. With daily suggested use, can last over a year.

Features:
- Contains one ingredient: Pure Mineral Salt.
- Prevents odor safely for up to 24 hours.
- No residue, no staining, no white marks.
- Made without Aluminum Chloride/Chlorohydrate/Zirconium, Parabens, and Fragrance.
- Dermatologist tested; unscented.
- Vegan and Cruelty Free.

Directions: Moisten the top of the stone and apply to underarms.

Ingredients: Ammonium Alum (Mineral Salts).

Overall Assessment: These are fun and affordable stocking-stuffer picks the you may just want for yourself!

Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own (Affiliate Links).
Copyright © 2019 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Hard Candy Just Glow Baked Highlighter Trios | Review and Swatches

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Hard Candy is such a fun, and affordable brand, and their Just Glow! Trio Baked Highlighting Trios are so much fun to use. They are whimsical highlighters that embody the spirit of hot summer days and warm summer evenings, and there is a color story for a wide range of complexions. Each set features three baked highlighters, but some of the shades are akin to blushes and bronzers, and each compact comes with its own brush. While they are baked, they are finely milled and easy to use. Each shade has beautiful shimmer, but none of them are overdone.

Hard Candy Just Glow! Trio Baked Highlighting Trios:

3 baked highlighters that illuminate skin with a distinct glow
Meet Me in Tahiti: inspired by the exotic beaches of the South Pacific islands
Cruisin’ the Coast: inspired by the gorgeous sunsets seen on the winding roads of California
A Touch of Moonlight: inspired by the aura of the moon
Rooftop Rendezvous: inspired by the twilight of a city night
Set includes a brush for easy application.

A Touch of Moonlight: inspired by the aura of the moon. This cool toned palette features silvers and icy whites.

Cruisin’ the Coast: inspired by the gorgeous sunsets seen on the winding roads of California. 

This is a very versatile palette featuring a pink, icy yellow and apricot.

Meet Me in Tahiti: inspired by the exotic beaches of the South Pacific islands.

This palette features a sun-kissed golden peach, a light golden shade and a beautiful warm bronze.

Rooftop Rendezvous: inspired by the twilight of a city night. This features a rosy shade, and stunning champagne and a cool icy pink with a little iridescent shift.

Overall Assessment: These are so much fun, and they are infinitely affordable.

$9.00 each from Hard Candy and Walmart (Affiliated Links).
Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.
Copyright © 2018 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

NORDSTROM BEAUTY TREND EVENTS SPRING 2018

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Every New York Fashion Week, Nordstrom goes backstage to assess the biggest beauty trends and then brings this intel direct to their customers. For the Spring 2018 season, they’ve identified trends such as Luminous Skin and Hi-Definition Lips.

Guests can learn how to achieve the freshest runway-inspired looks of the season and get free samples and exclusive gifts with your purchases (while supplies last). Receive one-on-one time with Nordstrom beauty experts, tips tricks to nail the newest trends and receive beauty buzz intel from industry insiders — and it’s free to attend!

Customers can simply RSVP online or ask for special accommodations by calling or stopping by their favorite cosmetics or skincare counter, located within Nordstrom.

To read more about the trends, click here: https://shop.nordstrom.com/c/beauty-trends-store-services  and to learn more about Nordstrom Beauty Trend Events, click here: https://shop.nordstrom.com/c/spring-trend-week-by-store.

Follow Nordstrom Beauty:
Instagram/Twitter: @Nordstrom
Facebook: facebook.com/nordstrom
#Nordstrom
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Catrice Cosmetics Camouflage Cream and Contouring Duo Stick

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If you have yet to become acquainted with Catrice Cosmetics, I highly recommend trying their products (that can be found exclusively at Ulta). Their high quality products boast divine textures, wonderful pigmentation and they are a treat to use. The added surprise is to get all of the aforementioned attributes at such an affordable price point.

Catrice Cosmetics Camouflage Cream Anti-Shadow ($5.99 for 0.1 oz. from Ulta): This ultra-creamy Camouflage Cream is a matte shade of yellow that is specifically formulated to conceal under eye dark shadows along with any other imperfections. I apply a tiny bit over my eye cream, and it blends to perfection without any drying, flaking or creasing.

According to Catrice Cosmetics,

Color Correcting Genius! The Catrice Camouflage Cream "Anti-Shadow" is a creamy, matte shade of yellow that is specially designed to camouflage under eye dark shadows and conceal other skin imperfections. The perfectly blendable, high coverage texture applies evenly to the skin to create a flawless, even looking complexion.

Ingredients: Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Talc, Isopropyl Myristate, Bis-Diglyceryl Polyacyladipate-2, Cera Alba (Beeswax), Petrolatum, Silica, Paraffin, Propylene Glycol Stearate, Ozokerite, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Tocopherol, Isopropyl Isostearate, Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil), Allantoin, PEG-8, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Ascorbic Acid, BHT, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, CI 77491 (Iron Oxides), CI 77492 (Iron Oxides), CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide). Paraben Free. Not tested on animals.

Catrice Cosmetics Camouflage Cream Anti-Red ($5.99 for 0.1 oz. from Ulta): While applying a green concealer cream to red areas may seem counterintuitive, it actually neutralizes redness without making you look like Kermit the Frog. The creamy texture melts into the skin, is highly blendable, and it evens out skin tone to perfection.

According to Catrice Cosmetics,

Color Correcting Genius! The Catrice Camouflage Cream "Anti-Red" is a creamy, matte shade of green that is specially designed to camouflage blemishes and neutralize redness. The perfectly blendable, high coverage texture applies evenly to the skin to create a flawless, even looking complexion.

Ingredients: Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Talc, Isopropyl Myristate, Bis-Diglyceryl Polyacyladipate-2, Cera Alba (Beeswax), Petrolatum, Silica, Paraffin, Propylene Glycol Stearate, Ozokerite, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Alumina, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Tocopherol, Isopropyl Isostearate, Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil), Allantoin, PEG-8, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Ascorbic Acid, BHT, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, CI 19140 (Yellow 5 Lake), CI 42090 (Blue 1 Lake), CI 77499 (Iron Oxides), CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide). Paraben Free. Not tested on animals.

Catrice Cosmetics Camouflage Cream Wake Up Effect ($5.99 for 0.1 oz. from Ulta): Wake Up Effect has a slight pink hue that not only conceals serious under eye dark circles, but it also brightens the skin leaving tired eyes looking fresh and revitalized. I use this one as an under eye concealer, and when I don't get enough sleep, it is the one that I reach for!

According to Catrice Cosmetics,

Color Correcting Genius! The Catrice Camouflage Cream "Wake Up Effect" is a creamy, matte shade of pink that is specially designed to hide under eye dark circles and provide a fresh, bright-eyed look. The perfectly blendable, high coverage texture applies evenly to the skin to create a flawless, even looking complexion.

Ingredients: Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Talc, Isopropyl Myristate, Bis-Diglyceryl Polyacyladipate-2, Cera Alba (Beeswax), Petrolatum, Silica, Paraffin, Propylene Glycol Stearate, Ozokerite, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Tocopherol, Isopropyl Isostearate, Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil), Allantoin, PEG-8, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Ascorbic Acid, Bht, Alumina, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, CI 15985 (Yellow 6 Lake), CI 19140 (Yellow 5 Lake), CI 77491 (Iron Oxides), CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide). Paraben Free. Not tested on animals.

Left to Right: Camouflage Cream Anti-Shadow, Camouflage Cream Anti-Red and Camouflage Cream Wake Up Effect.

Catrice Cosmetics Prime & Fine Contouring Duo Stick in Lighter Skin 010 ($7.99 for 0.11 oz. from Ulta): This dual-ended contouring stick features a dark contour shade on one end and a luminous highlighter on the other. The dark shade in Lighter Skin 010 blends out to be an appropriate shade for lighter skin tones, and the light pink highlighter offers the perfect amount of luminosity without overdoing it. Both sides boast a creamy texture, and they blend out to perfection without tugging or pulling the skin.

According to Catrice Cosmetics,

Effortlessly Enhance Your Best Features! The Catrice Prime & Fine Contouring Duo Stick is a portable, easy-to-use, double-ended contour and highlight wand that creates a natural, yet sculpted look. Enriched with Vitamin E and Argan Oil, the smooth and creamy texture glides onto the skin seamlessly and blends with ease. Use the darker, matte shade to define, and the lighter shade, with luxury pearls, to set highlights.

Directions: Apply the darker shade below the cheekbones, along the hairline, the sides of the nose and beneath the jawline. Apply the lighter shade on the brow bones, inner corner of the eyes, center of the nose and above the cheekbones.

Ingredients Shade 1: Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Mica, Octyldodecanol, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Polyethylene, Paraffin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Caprylyl Glycol, Glycerin, Alumina, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum (Fragrance), Citronellol, Limonene, Linalool, CI 77491 (Iron Oxides), CI 77492 (Iron Oxides), CI 77499 (Iron Oxides), CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide).Paraben Free. Not tested on animals.

Ingredients Shade 2: Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Mica, Octyldodecanol, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Polyethylene, Paraffin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum (Fragrance), Citronellol, Limonene, Linalool, CI 77491 (Iron Oxides), CI 77492 (Iron Oxides), CI 77499 (Iron Oxides), CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide).

Catrice Cosmetics Contouring Duo Stick in Medium Skin 020 ($7.99 for 0.11 oz. from Ulta): This dual-ended contouring stick features a dark contour shade on one end and a luminous highlighter on the other. The dark shade in Medium Skin 020 blends out to be an appropriate shade for medium skin tones, and the light golden highlighter offers the perfect amount of luminosity without overdoing it. Both sides boast a creamy texture, and they blend out to perfection without tugging or pulling the skin.

According to Catrice Cosmetics,

Effortlessly Enhance Your Best Features! The Catrice Prime & Fine Contouring Duo Stick is a portable, easy-to-use, double-ended contour and highlight wand that creates a natural, yet sculpted look. Enriched with Vitamin E and Argan Oil, the smooth and creamy texture glides onto the skin seamlessly and blends with ease. Use the darker, matte shade to define, and the lighter shade, with luxury pearls, to set highlights.

Directions: Apply the darker shade below the cheekbones, along the hairline, the sides of the nose and beneath the jawline. Apply the lighter shade on the brow bones, inner corner of the eyes, center of the nose and above the cheekbones.

Ingredients Shade 1: Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Mica, Octyldodecanol, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Polyethylene, Paraffin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Caprylyl Glycol, Glycerin, Alumina, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum (Fragrance), Citronellol, Limonene, Linalool, CI 77491 (Iron Oxides), CI 77492 (Iron Oxides), CI 77499 (Iron Oxides), CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide). Paraben Free. Not tested on animals.

Ingredients Shade 2: Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Mica, Octyldodecanol, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Polyethylene, Paraffin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Caprylyl Glycol, Tin Oxide, Glycerin, Alumina, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum (Fragrance), Citronellol, Limonene, Linalool, CI 77491 (Iron Oxides), CI 77492 (Iron Oxides), CI 77499 (Iron Oxides), CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide).

Left to Right: Prime & Fine Contouring Duo Stick in Lighter Skin 010, Contouring Duo Stick in Medium Skin 020, Camouflage Cream Anti-Red, Camouflage Cream Wake Up Effect and Camouflage Cream Anti-Shadow.

Overall Assessment: It is definitely worth trying Catrice Cosmetics, and if you have any concealing, contouring or highlighting needs, then these products featured are worthy of your attention. Their high quality is such a wonderful surprise at this affordable price point.

Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own (Affiliate Links).
Copyright © 2017 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Makeup Wars Top Pick Highlighters | #TOMFORD #HOURGLASS #SURRATT #MAKEUPWARS

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When the Makeup Wars Team decided to feature our favorite cream highlighters and contours, I quickly realized that my stash is primarily made up of powders, so with their blessing that is what I am featuring. I have a huge selection of powder highlighters, including numerous limited edition beauties from Guerlain and Chanel that are long since available. Therefore, I decided to select some of my very favorites that are still available.

I tend to take the less is more, subtle approach to highlighting, rather than that less-than-subtle highlighting that we saw so much of in 2016.

I have many more highlighters from Hourglass, but narrowed my selection down to these three.

TOM FORD Beauty Skin Illuminating Powder Duo in Moodlight ($80.00 for 0.42 oz. from Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale's, Harrods and Selfridges): is a stunning highlighting and illuminating powder duo that is ultra finely milled, glides across the skin effortlessly and it neither emphasizes pores, nor does it settle into fine lines. Both powders have a velvety smooth texture that make them both exquisitely satisfying, and easy, to use.

The luxe compact contains two generously sized powders with a total weight of 0.42 oz. The golden white shade, at the top of the compact, is a subtle shimmering highlighter that imparts the perfect ethereal glow to the skin. It does not contain large chunks of glitter, and is therefore appropriate to wear day or night. The bottom shade seems to modulate between a rose gold and a peachy golden shade that adds a touch of sun kissed color to the complexion. It contains a refined glowing shimmer that is equally appropriate during the day, or the office for that matter, and the evening. The two shades can also be mixed together to create what TOM FORD Beauty calls a "multidimensional glow."

I experimented in order to find the best brush to use with the TOM FORD Beauty Skin Illuminating Powder Duo, and find that I get the best effects with soft and fluffy brushes. A stiffer brushes tend to lay down more color than I want–  therefore a fluffy brush gives me the more natural glow that I seek.

That the creamy smooth texture facilitates effortless blending is a supreme understatement. In fact, the texture is so enviable that you will find yourself looking for excuses to use these beauties. Both shades offer buildable coverage– should you seek a more obvious glow, but as previously noted, I prefer using a lighter hand to achieve a more natural glow. When built up excessively the finish becomes more metallic and less natural looking.

Furthermore, I noted exceptional wear-time for both powders– in fact both tend to wear all day without a primer on my combination skin, but your experience may differ. If you have particularly oily skin, then the use of a primer will certainly increase the wear-time of these shimmering beauties.

According to TOM FORD Beauty,

Tom Ford created this highlighting and illuminating powder duo to capture the two most flattering types of natural light on the skin—a soft white shade is like the luminous glow of daylight and a radiant golden shade is like the romantic illusion of candlelight. These lightly shimmering shades can be applied individually or layered together to create a multidimensional glow.

Surratt Artistique Highlighter in Aureole ($32.00 for 0.14 oz. from Barneys New York, Sephora, and Cult Beauty): is a staggeringly beautiful, and infinitely subtle and refined golden highlighter. The texture is soft, smooth, creamy and glides across the skin effortlessly, evenly and blends out seamlessly. While it is a powder it feels like a cream to the touch as a result of the slurry technology employed in its making. It is this very textural difference that makes the formula unique and indescribably luxurious to the touch. The finish is best described as a natural and luminous glow from within– particularly so when applied with a light hand. 

Furthermore, as I have previously stated in other posts, anyone who has ever tried any of his powder-based products will attest, their smooth creamy textures are utterly peerless. As Troy explained to me, his powder products are made using the Japanese slurry-technology whereby they begin their life as a liquid that is poured and then evaporates leaving behind the most creamy and easy to blend powder. The textures of these products are utterly sublime, and the tactile experience is so superbly satisfying that one is naturally inclined to reach for these products with great regularity. Troy's products boast a modernist design with eco-friendly minimalist packaging, and his eyeshadow and blush pans can be placed in one of the chic Surratt Palettes for added convenience.

According to Surratt,

Surratt Beauty's 'Artistique Blush' is a lightweight powder that gives your complexion a flawless, natural-looking finish. Designed to accentuate your features, 'Auréole' is a highlighter that makes your skin look more radiant and your bone structure more defined. Use it below the arch of your brow, down the bridge of your nose or across the highest part of your cheeks.

Created using the Japanese ‘slurry’ method, which allows for an ultra-blendable ‘artistic’ application, Surratt’s Artistique Highlighter in shade ‘Aureole’ lends ‘high points’ a beautiful, soft focus glow. Just use the Highlight Brush to sweep pigment on top of cheekbones, brow bones and the cupid’s bow to draw attention to your favourite features and achieve a more ‘3D’ effect.

Soft focus photograph to underscore the luminosity.

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder in Mood Light ($46.00 for 0.35 oz. Available from Hourglass, Space NK US, Space NK UK (£40.00), Bergdorf Goodman and Sephora): Mood Light is indeed "a soft, sheer lavender pink powder, that mimics the softest and most forgiving light...." I find that it is the perfect color for my cool-toned complexion. One might think that it would be too lavender or pink to dust all over the face, but I find that it works beautifully in this capacity. It boasts a nearly matte finish with a very subtle and refined sheen that effectively brightens and illuminates the complexion. It reduces the appearance of redness and gives the skin a very even and flawless finish. I have found that it leaves my skin looking naturally glowing and healthy. Every single time that I wear it people comment on my beautiful skin, and while my skin is in very good shape without makeup there is no question that Mood Light gives me the highly coveted "My Skin but Better" appearance that we all seek in finishing products. I also like to use Mood Light as a highlighter when I don't feel like dusting my entire face, and it offers a subtle beautiful glow in all of the right places. The texture of Mood Light is just spectacular: it is soft and silky to the touch and ultra-finely milled, and it effortlessly glides across the skin. It is truly powder perfection incarnate!

                              Left to Right: Heavy, Medium & Light Swatches of Mood Light

Hourglass Ambient Strobe Lighting Powder in Iridescent Strobe Light ($38.00 each from HOURGLASS, Nordstrom, Space NK, Barneys New York and Sephora) is described as an "illuminating pink powder imparting a soft highlight." It is a stunning pale pink powder that is ultra-finely milled to the extent that it has a rather creamy consistency. This faint pink will flatter many skin tones, but I suspect that those among you with cooler-toned will be particularly elated by this shade since it is often difficult to find flattering illuminator shades for blue-based skin tones. It spreads across the skin and deposits color effortlessly and evenly, and it neither settle into fine lines, nor does it accentuate pores. Instead of depositing discernible glitter, that looks decidedly artificial, it leaves skin with a stunning ethereal glow.

The Ambient Strobe Lighting Powders are formulated to be used wet or dry whether one opts to use a  brush or the Ambient Strobe Light Sculptor (full review forthcoming) that was created specifically for the Ambient Strobe Lighting Powders. HOURGLASS suggests that it is best applied with the Ambient Strobe Light Sculptor, and that whether used wet or dry one can easily "achieve varying levels of intensity, taking you from day to night."

Whether you prefer to use a brush or the Ambient Strobe Light Sculptor, these powders could not be easier to use.  You simple dip your tool of choice into the powder and sweep it wherever illumination is desired.

Initially, I thought that I might prefer using a brush to the Ambient Strobe Light Sculptor, but after some experimentation I concluded that the Ambient Strobe Light Sculptor offers greater precision than a brush. It is firm enough not to yield too much against the skin, and the angled side offers perfect placement wherever you want to highlight the face.

According to HOURGLASS,

For a soft, sheer highlight - Sweep the angled side of the Ambient® Strobe Light Sculptor across the powder and apply to the tops of your cheekbones, bridge of nose and cupid's bow. Gently blend in with the flocked side for a smooth finish. 

For a more intense highlight - Dampen the angled side of the Ambient® Strobe Light Sculptor and sweep across the powder. Apply to the tops of your cheekbones, bridge of nose and cupid's bow. Gently blend in with the flocked side for a smooth finish.

Available in 4 shades:

• Iridescent Strobe Light: An illuminating pink powder imparting a soft highlight.

• Incandescent Strobe Light: An opalescent pearl powder bestowing a celestial highlight. 

• Euphoric Strobe Light: A pearlescent beige powder bestowing a natural highlight.

• Brilliant Strobe Light: A shimmering gold powder imparting a lustrous highlight.

HOURGLASS Ambient Strobe Lighting Powder in Brilliant Strobe Light ($38.00 each from HOURGLASS, Nordstrom, Space NK, Barneys New York and Sephora): is described as a, "shimmering gold powder imparting a lustrous highlight." It is a stunning pale gold powder that is ultra-finely milled to the extent that it has a rather creamy consistency. This ethereal and refined gold shade will flatter a variety of skin tones, and it is even flattering on cooler-toned skin, like mine. It spreads across the skin and deposits color effortlessly and evenly, and it neither settle into fine lines, nor does it accentuate pores. Instead of depositing discernible glitter, that looks decidedly artificial, it leaves skin with a stunning luminous glow.

The Ambient Strobe Lighting Powders are formulated to be used wet or dry whether one opts to use a  brush or the Ambient Strobe Light Sculptor that was created specifically for the Ambient Strobe Lighting Powders. HOURGLASS suggests that it is best applied with the Ambient Strobe Light Sculptor, and that whether used wet or dry one can easily "achieve varying levels of intensity, taking you from day to night."

As was the case with Ambient Strobe Lighting Powder in Iridescent Strobe Light, I actually prefer applying Ambient Strobe Lighting Powder in Brilliant Strobe Light wet rather than dry. One might surmise that it would create a metallic foiled effect, when, in fact, it creates a more luminous finish than it does when applied dry. I found that the damp application accentuated the pale golden hue without appearing harsh or metallic. There is a more pronounced, albeit subtle, sheen that occurs when it is applied damp.

Whether you prefer to use a brush or the Ambient Strobe Light Sculptor, Ambient Strobe Lighting Powder in Brilliant Strobe Light and Ambient Strobe Lighting Powder in Iridescent Strobe Light could not be easier to use. Simply dip your tool of choice into the powder and sweep it wherever a luminous finish and ethereal glow is desired.

Overall Assessment: It was exceedingly difficult to narrow down my selection, but these five gorgeous highlighters are unquestionably of the highest quality, and they are such a true pleasure to use. All five earn an A+ without any hesitation!

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