MAKE UP FOR EVER 250 Extra Fine Eyeliner Brush | Review and Pictures

Purchased (Affiliate Links)

If you are seeking a cream and gel eyeliner brush that is both firm and extra fine, then I recently purchased one with which I am most pleased. MAKE UP FOR EVER 250 Extra Fine Eyeliner Brush is a fantastic $18.00 purchase, and it is the perfect accompaniment to my gel eyeliners.

The firm brush, which is firm enough to draw a very precise line, but not so firm as to be uncomfortable on the delicate eye area, is able to pick up the perfect amount of eyeliner, and deposit it in even the tightest of spaces without any issues. It facilitates precise control whether you are tight-lining, or seeking the perfect cat eye. The wooden handle and metal ferrule are nicely balanced, and while it is a small brush overall, it is very comfortable to hold and handle. The synthetic fibers do not absorb the eyeliner, and therefore do not become overloaded and inefficient.

According to Sephora,

An extra fine, straight brush for extremely precise eyeliner application. This short, firm brush allows for controlled and dense application along the lashline. It can be used with cream or liquid formulas to create a classic eyeliner look.

After five years in development with makeup artists and fiber experts, MAKE UP FOR EVER Artisan Brushes are a revolution in brush craftsmanship. The 100-percent fiber brushes are available in a range of 76 handcrafted styles, each with the perfect balance of straight and wavy fibers that replicate natural hairs. Beveled tips create a two-in-one makeup brush and tool, while innovative hair density and brush head shapes optimize every stroke for ideal makeup application. To achieve the ultimate collection, every brush has gone through 25 production stages by 30 craftsmen and has been checked for quality 50 times.

From brush tip to end it measures 6 1/2"– therefore it is compact enough to pop in your makeup or travel bag.

Directions: Use the flat side of the brush to apply liner along lash-line. Use pointed end to detail the inner and outer corners of the eye.

Overall Assessment: This was a really great purchase, and this is one brush that is getting a lot of use– rather than collecting dust!

$18.00 from Sephora (Affiliate Links).
Purchased. All views expressed are categorically my own.
Copyright © 2019 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Sephora MAKE UP FOR EVER VIB Rouge Birthday Gift

While the box indicates VIB Rouge, I am fairly certain that I am still just a VIB, but this is what I received. If you love MAKE UP FOR EVER then you will be really pleased with their birthday gift this year. It includes deluxe sample sizes of Aqua Eyes 0L (Black) Waterproof Eyeliner pencil, Smokey Extravagant Mascara (Black) and Rouge Artist Natural N9 (Copper Pink) Moisturizing Soft Shine Lipstick. 

Copyright © 2014 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

MAKE UP FOR EVER Event: Sweatproof Makeup Mastery with Special Guest Richard Simmons!

WHAT: Need a break from the holiday hustle?  Head over to MAKE UP FOR EVER for a Sweatproof Makeup Mastery course with special guest Richard Simmons.  Talia Cich, Robertson Boutique Head Makeup Artist, will teach you how to create a long-wearing holiday inspired beauty look featuring our award-winning Aqua products that’ll outlast any festivity.  During the hands-on, interactive course you will receive personalized instruction on proper application along with a set of makeup brushes, tools, a mirror and product to use throughout the session.

                       

After mastering your makeup, join Richard Simmons as he will put the products to the test in his signature “Slimmons” class that is sure to make you sweat!  In this fun and informative workout session you will learn calorie torching moves to ensure you avoid the dreaded holiday bulge!  Richard will be available after class for photos and a meet & greet.  Complimentary refreshments will be provided by the Pressed Juicery. 

This special Makeup Mastery course is $40 and all proceeds will be donated to Richard Simmons and Friends, a 501c3 foundation that benefits children in need around the world.

WHEN: Monday, December 16th  11:00am - 1:00pm

WHERE: MAKE UP FOR EVER Boutique 132 South Robertson Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90048 

              (310) 289-1758

Press Release provided to Lola's Secret Beauty Blog courtesy of MAKE UP FOR EVER.                   

By Request: How I Currently Store My Eyeshadows

After having received requests to post pictures of my lip products & storage, and then my blushes & storage- I suspected that it was just a matter of time before someone asked to see how I store my stash of eyeshadows. Well, that day came sooner than I suspected- so here you are! As was the case for both my lip product and cheek product stashes- this does not reflect the entirety of my collection. I have a bin and two drawers filled with products that need to be photographed, swatched, and reviewed- therefore those eyeshadows have yet to land in this drawer.

The top picture differs from the bottom in that I left the three palettes stacked where I normally store them (a MAC Pro Palette, a Trish McEvoy Palette [contains Chantecaille, MUFE, RBR & Trish Mc Evoy eyeshadows], and an Anastasia Beverly Hills Palette).

The back right compartment contains MAKE UP FOR EVER Aqua Creams. Next to it you will find a few MAC Quads and a Maybelline Color Tattoo. The far right compartment is solely MAC Paint Pots, and beneath that are Bobbi Brown Gel Eyeliners. To the right in the gap between the wooden box and the side of the drawer I have MAC Pigment samples and a Prestige Cosmetics Mineral Eye Shadow Trio.

The bamboo box on the left side contains Burberry Eyeshadow singles, Chanel Quads, NARS duos and singles, a Le Métier de Beauté eyeshadow palette, a Mia BelleZZa duo, and a Giorgio Armani single.

The bamboo box on the right is the special land of Rouge Bunny Rouge and as such it gets a separate zip code altogether!

In the front, where there is a gap between the drawer and the bamboo storage boxes I have a mish-mash   of single eyeshadows from: Bobbi Brown, Kevyn Aucoin, Laura Mercier, Hourglass, Prestige Cosmetics, MAC, La Prairie, and a few other strays. I also keep my eye/lip pencil sharpener there since it is easy to find.

I actually purged a good number of eyeshadows that I simply wasn't using- therefore what you are seeing is actually a more sensible stash compared to what I once had. I also reduced some of the clutter by depotting a lot of singles, and I buy refill pans whenever possible.

Truth be told, I could live without most of what is in this drawer, but the contents of the two bamboo boxes definitely make my heart go pitter-patter!

How do you store your eyeshadows?

By Request: Foundations, BB Creams & Tinted Moisturizers- What I am Currently Using

When wefadetogray made the special request that I do a post on my very favorite foundation- I realized that I didn't really have a single Holy Grail foundation. Instead, I currently have 6 products in rotation: 3 foundations, 1 BB Cream, and two tinted moisturizers. While there is some variation in the colors- they all work surprisingly well on my face.

1) MAKE UP FOR EVER Face & Body (Color: Ivory 20. Reviewed here): I have loved this foundation since the first moment that I tried it. It has a wonderful gel texture and buildable coverage.  This foundation is like a second skin and is very comfortable to wear, and it is lightweight and easy to spread and blend. The finish is very natural- on the satiny finish end of the spectrum. I love this foundation! I am also pleased that it is not filled with silicone!

Ingredients: Aqua, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Cycolentasiloxane, Methylpropanediol, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Mangifera Indica Seed Oil (Mango Seed Butter), Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Tetrasodium EDTA, Fragrance, PEG-8, Phenoxyethanol, Tromethamine, Potassium Myristate, Chlorphenesin, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Polyacrylate, Panthenol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Limonene, Citronnellol, Geraniol, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Linalool, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionene. May Contain: CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), CI 777493 (Iron Oxides), CI 77492 (Iron Oxides), CI 77499 (Iron Oxides).

2) Giorgio Armani Maestro Foundation (Color: 5. Review forthcoming): I am still hopelessly conflicted about this foundation. I love the finish, light coverage and thin texture. I don't like that it is filled with so many silicones. I had hoped that the natural oils would have been at the top of the list of ingredients rather than at the bottom in negligible quantities. While I really like the coverage a great deal, one must be aware that it tends to accentuate rather than conceal flaws. Any dry patches are enhanced, rather than diminished, and redness seems to be spotlighted. However, if your skin is in good shape- then this will make it look even more flawless. I tend to think that this formula is better for people with normal to oilier skin types, and that those with dry skin types might prefer a formula that is a bit more moisturizing. I would suggest requesting a sample to see if you like it before buying it because it is pricey.

Ingredients: Dimethicone, Cyclohexasiloxane, Isododecane, Alcohol Denat, Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Phenyl Trimethicone, Acrylates/Polytrimethylsiloxymethacrylate Copolymer, PEG-10 Dimethicone, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Nelumbium Speciosum Extract/Nelumbium Speciosum Flower Extract, Limonene, Synthetic Fluorphelogopite, Benzylsalicylate, Benzyl Alcohol, Linalool, Propylene Carbonate, Caprilyic/Capric Triglyceride, Parfum / Fragrance, Disodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Citrus Aurantium Amara Flower Oil / Bitter Orange Flower Oil, Aqua / Water, Aluminum Hydroxide, Hexyl Cinnmai. [+/- May contain CI 77891 / Titanium Dioxide, CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499 / Iron Oxides]. (FIL B48256/5)

3) Neutrogena Healthy Skin Glow Sheers SPF 30 (Color: Ivory to Fair 10): I like the light coverage and gel like consistency because I tend to prefer sheer foundations and tinted moisturizers to more full coverage formulas. This is a nice drugstore foundation, but I would prefer to replace it with one that is from a cruelty-free company next time I am in the market to try a drugstore foundation.

Active Ingredients: Homosalate (5.0%), Octinoxate (7.5%), Octisalate (5.0%), Oxybenzone (2.0%), Titanium Dioxide (2.9%). Inactive Ingredients: Water, Phenyl Trimethicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Butylene Glycol, Silica, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Barium Sulfate, Pantothenic Acid, Ascorbic Acid, Tocopherol Acetate, Retinyl Palmitate, Squalane, Bisabolol, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Polysorbate 60, PEG-12 Dimethicone, Polymethyl Methacrylate, Polysorbate 20, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Cetyl Hydroxyethylcellulose, Tetrasodium EDTA, Xanthan Gum, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate, Caprylyl Glycol, Sorbic Acid, Phenoxyethanol. May Contain: Iron Oxides, Mica, Titanium Dioxide.

4) B. Kamins BB Cream (Review forthcoming): I just started using the B. Kamins BB Cream, and so far I really really like it. According to B. Kamins, "The BB Cream is an 8-in-1 multitasking cream that will instantly lift your look. This beauty balm is packed with anti-oxidants, vitamins and peptides." It has a very nice consistency, and it provides sheer luminous coverage, and is moisturizing.

Ingredients: Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate) 7.5%, Octisalate (Ethylhexyl Salicylate) 4.5%, Octocrylene 6%. Other Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Butylene Glycol, Ethoxydiglycol, Dimethylacrylamide/Acrylic Acid/Polystyrene/Ethyl Methacrylate Copolymer, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-14, Lycium Barbarum Extract (Gojiberry), PEG-100 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Glycerin, Beta-Glucan, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Isopropyl Palmitate, Cyclopentasiloxane, PEG/PPG-20/15 Dimethicone, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Sodium Polyacrylate, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Trideceth-6, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Diamond Powder, Acer Saccharum (Maple Isolate/Isolat Dâ?TMérable), Hyaluronic Acid, Serum Albumin, Dextran Sulfate, Dipalmitoyl Hydroxyproline, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Isononyl Isononanoate, Isopropyl Titanium Triisostearate, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Sorbic Acid, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Mica (CI 77019), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492).

5) Rouge Bunny Rouge Sketches on Water Tinted Moisturizer (Color: Adansonia. Reviewed here): The texture of this tinted moisturizer is so smooth and luscious, and it glides across the skin effortlessly! It is lightweight and moisturizing, and it has light buildable coverage. I love it- as I do everything that I have tried from Rouge Bunny Rouge!

Ingredients: Aqua, Cyclohexasiloxane, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Propylene Glycol, Titanium Dioxide, Mica, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Squalane, Beheneth-30, Myristyl Alcohol, Silica, Phenoxyethanol, Glyceryl Isostearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Glycerin, Bis-Peg-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Polyacrylamide, Hydrogenated Palm Kernel Glycerides, Carbomer, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Cyclopentasiloxane, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Sodium Hydroxide, Cetearyl Glucoside, Cetearyl Alcohol, Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides, Potassium Cocoyl Pca, Laureth-7, Trihydroxypalmitamidohydroxypropyl Myristyl Ether, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cellulose Gum, Xanthan Gum, Tocopherol, Retinyl Palmitate, Bht, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Malachite, Smithsonite, Rhodochrosite, Laminaria Digitata Extract. (+:-): Ci 77891, Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499

6) NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30 (Color: Alaska. Reviewed here): Based upon my arm swatches, Alaska is the least well-suited shade as it pulls a bit too warm for my cool skin, however on my face it actually works- largely because it is a tinted moisturizer (and therefore a bit more forgiving). NARS describes Alaska as "light with a neutral balance of pink and yellow undertones." I love this tinted moisturizer a great deal because it has a lovely lightweight formula, it spreads easily, it is moisturizing, it contains an SPF 30, and it does not cause me to break out. People tend to be polarized about this formula- so I would suggest getting a sample first, or trying a tester to see whether or not this formula resonates with you. I will say that I do wish that it contained far fewer silicones, but for some reason my skin isn't irritated by them.

Ingredients: Water, Dimethicone, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Titanium Dioxide, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Diethylhexyl Succinate, Glycerin, Nylon-12, Cyclomethicone, Peg-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Peg-10 Dimethicone, Aluminum Hydroxide, Diphenylsiloxy Phenyl Trimethicone, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate, Stearic Acid Phenoxyethanol, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Fragrance, Dimethicone/Vinyl, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Trisodium, Edta, Aluminum Distearate, Talc, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Polysilicone-2, Vibrio Alginolyticus Ferment Filtrate, Tocopherol, Alteromonas Ferment Filtrate, Maris Sal (Sea Salt), Hydrogen Dimethicone, Bht, Algae (Algae Extract), Sodium Metabisulfite, Curcuma Longa [Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract], Potassium Sorbate, Geraniol, Limonene, Citral, Linalool [+/- (May Contain): Ci 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), Ci 77491 (Iron Oxides), Ci 77492 (Iron Oxides), Ci 77499 (Iron Oxides)].

It will take me quite a while to get through all of these products, and I'm not sure what I will try next. Any suggestions? What are you using?

Empties Post: Volume V: December 2012

I initially thought that I would make a larger dent in all of my samples during the month of December, but since I was using vbeauté skincare exclusively I really didn't use other skincare products. Still, I did manage to use up a few skincare samples that didn't interfere with reviewing the entire line.

Skincare Products: My big surprise was the Clarins UV PLUS HP Ecran Multi-Protection SPF 40- this is hands down the best sunscreen that I have ever tried, period end of subject!  Needless to say, I purchased the full sized bottle. It doesn't have a strange texture, it plays well with makeup, and feels silky smooth. REN Glycolactic Skin Renewal Peel Mask (reviewed here) is a fabulous peel mask- I used these samples while traveling. This is simply an amazingly effective mask, and I will continue using it as long as REN makes it! MAKE UP FOR EVER Sens'Eyes- Waterproof Sensitive Eye Cleanser (reviewed here) handles even the toughest waterproof makeup, and it does so effortlessly and gently.

Body & Hair Products: I try to be judicious in my use of hand sanitizers, but I did have a really bad flu this year so I did use them after touching door knobs at work. The one from Traders Joe's was of the regular gel variety, but the one that I really loved was Intelligent Nutrients Certified Organic Hand Sanitizer (reviewed here) because it was a pleasant smelling organic product in a spray bottle. It was so convenient to use because of the way that it was packaged, and I highly recommend it for this reason and for the quality of the product itself. My husband bought Trader Joe's Tea Tree Tingle Shampoo and didn't use it because he preferred one of their other shampoos- so it just sat in the shower unused. Being one who hates waste, I decided to repurpose it as a shower and shave gel- and it worked well as such. The Curls Gel-les'c curl gel/ shine serum (reviewed here) was a really lovely product that felt moisturizing on my curly locks, and it really gave my hair a lovely shine! EOS Pomegranate Raspberry Shave Cream was an awesome and affordable product that left my legs very soft and moisturized after use.

Makeup, Lip Balms & Fragrances: I made a decent dent in my pile of fragrance samples- which I have vowed to get through. It drives me nuts having drawers filled with piles of things that I don't use-- so it gives me great satisfaction using up these perfume samples. As always, if they smell awful on me I end up using them near the kitty litter boxes to deodorize the area. I managed to get through another Suki Lip Repair Butter (reviewed here) and a Weleda Everon Lip Balm (I love this stuff!), but both were nearly used up- so it didn't take much time to use the last bits of each of them. I also used up a Chanel Mascara sample, the last bits of a MAC eyeshadow duo, and the last bits of a Trish McEvoy Blush. For the last few months I have been trying to make a dent in some of my makeup, and the aforementioned MAC and Trish McEvoy products were on my hit list to finish up before 2013. I am so pleased that I actually finished both of them.

Which products did you finish, toss, or give away in December?

Looking for Some Extra Holiday Sparkle? MAKE UP FOR EVER Has the Solution!

MAKE UP FOR EVER has a fantastic selection of everything that you need to sparkle, twinkle and shine this holiday season. Their products are fun, high quality, and a little goes a long! Their Glitter comes in a vast array of shades, their Strass collection features so many GORGEOUS jewel tones that it will make your head spin, and their Metal Powder is spectacular!

Stock image from MAKE UP FOR EVER.

MAKE UP FOR EVER Deep Berry Lips

I just received an email from MAKE UP FOR EVER announcing their Deep Berry Lips for Fall, and was so tempted by these beauties that I had to share them! Available at Sephora. Image from Sephora.

MAKE UP FOR EVER Avant Garde Make Up Challenge

To enter the contest visit the MAKE UP FOR EVER Facebook page. Good Luck! Image from MAKE UP FOR EVER.

September Favorites!

This month I decided to feature products that I am coveting right now, but that I haven't yet reviewed (save for two items that I just reviewed this week). These are either new products in my arsenal, or those that I have recently rediscovered and am reaching for with great frequency. I am hopelessly smitten with these products, and this post is my Ode to them! That said, I will keep my comments short and sweet since I will be reviewing each of them individually in the coming weeks.

Skincare Products Left to Right and Clockwise:
1) Sponge Krema Imeras (Anti-Aging Day Cream)- I am generally not prone to purchasing skincare products before trying a sample first since my combination skin can, at times, be rather reactive to new things. However, I am so taken by Sponge Skincare products, and they work so well for me that I wasn't at all reluctant to buy Krema Imeras before trying it. This is an antioxidant rich anti-aging daily moisturizer that is infused with Linden, Sage and Rosemary. The smell is delectable and it feels divine on the skin. I'm so glad that I bought this-- it's definitely another hit from Sponge!

2) Sponge Krema Triantafillo (Rose Sage Cream)- I tried several sample packets of Krema Triantafillo, and knew that I was going to buy a bottle before I finished the first packet. This lovely cream can be used day or night and is a sumptuous tactile experienced. It is infused with Rose Hips and Sage and was specifically formulated for sensitive skin. It is light and hydrating, and it feels soothing and comfortable on the skin.

3) Rodin Olio Lusso Luxury Face Oil- Olio Lusso is an ultra luxurious face oil that I am finding rather addictive and intoxicating. First of all this delightful elixir smells of Jasmine which is known for having a calming effect, and which is an effective skin softener. What I find remarkable about this oil is how quickly it sinks into the skin (more so than any other face oil that I have used) and leaves it hydrated and glowing. I was concerned that I would be off put by the scent, but instead am delighted by it. The scent does fade, but the benefits of this liquid gold do not! I'm in love!

5) Tatcha Polished Classic Rice Enzyme Powder- This is simply an extraordinary product. This is a water activated enzyme powder that exfoliates the skin without any harsh abrasives, and it literally leaves your skin baby soft. Unbelievable product!

6) FutureDerm Time-Release Retinol 0.5- I love using retinol products at night, and this one is a highly effective gel-based formula that packs a real punch. While it is gentle, it really means business. It also has a very reasonable price point- which is even better!

7) Reviva Labs Microdermabrasion Pomegranate Scrub (reviewed here)- This is the best scrub that I have tried in a very long time. It is so gentle and effective, and my skin is glowing and smooth with a renewed clarity after use.

8) Tatcha One Step Camellia Cleansing Oil- I am a big fan of cleansing oils, and this is the best one that I have ever tried. It is formulated without mineral oil, and is ideal for all skin types according to Tatcha. It cleans everything off of my skin effortlessly.

9) Rodin Olio Lusso Lip Balm (reviewed here)- This is my new favorite lip balm, without question. It leaves my lips so hydrated, and it feels so comfortable on the lips. It doesn't hurt that the gorgeous minimal modern packaging is so lovely to behold either.

Haircare Products Left to Right:
1) Aubrey Honeysuckle Rose Moisturizing Shampoo- I have used this shampoo at many different times over the years, but hadn't used it in a long time. It is a low lather ultra moisturizing natural shampoo that is perfect for my naturally curly hair. The smell is delicious, but does fade. I forgot how much I loved this shampoo!

2) Aubrey Honeysuckle Rose Moisturizing Conditioner- This really is the perfect companion to their Honeysuckle Rose Shampoo. This conditioner is ultra moisturizing, and it leaves my hair with soft curls.

3) Rodin By Recine Luxury Hair Oil- Just a few drops of this wondrous oil, and my hair is soft, manageable, and shiny. I like to use it as a styling aid by adding a few drops to my damp hair, but it can also be used as a scalp treatment, a deep conditioner, and can be brushed from roots to tips. This magical blend of oils is truly amazing!

4) Oribe Curl By Definition Crème- This is one of the best curl enhancing creams that I have ever used! It leaves curls soft and frizz-free without ever being crunchy!! It also imparts a luminous shine that is simply gorgeous!

5) scrünci hair ties- I love these hair ties! They are inexpensive, they don't pull the hair, and they are so easy to find!

Body Products:
1) Rodin Olio Lusso Luxury Body Oil- Like the face oil, the body oil is ultra moisturizing. This oil smells delightful, just like the face oil, and it also sinks in very fast. It leaves the skin glowing and soft,  and it is simply divine.

2) Kiss My Face Active Life Stick-Cucumber Green Tea Deodorant- While my uncontested favorite deodorant is the lovely one made by Kai, I always have more than one deodorant in rotation at a given time (usually about three of them, actually). I love Kiss My Face products, and so when I was at Whole Foods the other day I picked this one up because it smelled so yummy. I really like it, and it works well.

Makeup Left to Right:
1) Rouge Bunny Rouge Forever Yours...Long-Lasting Lip Pencil in Roald (Pure matte, pale mauve)- Rouge Bunny Rouge definitely makes my very favorite lip pencils, and Roald is a real stunner. Their lip pencils are creamy, long lasting, beautifully pigmented, and gorgeous!

2) Le Métier de Beauté  Sheer Brilliance Lip Gloss in Uma Paro- This is the perfect vampy lip gloss for people afraid to wear bold vampy lipsticks.  Of course you can wear it on top of a vampy lipstick, like Bali, to really vamp it up-- but you can also sheer it out and wear it alone! The formula is superb, and it is moisturizing and non-sticky-- making it an amazing product.

3) Rouge Bunny Rouge Sweet Excesses Glassy Gloss in Mousse Fandango (dark tone milky pink with the barest whispers of grayish mauve and a touch of silver micro pearls)- The Sweet Excesses Glassy Gloss formula is extraordinary. It imparts a brilliant shine, is non-sticky, and is moisturizing. Mousse Fandango is a lovely milky pink that is a bit more sheer than pigmented, and it gives lips the perfect pink pout.

4) Rouge Bunny Rouge Succulence of Dew Sheer Lipstick in Murmurings (Wet effect, sheer cool damson)- Murmurings is a plummy red hue with a touch of brown. The sheer formula is somewhat buildable, and it leaves your lips with the perfect moist shine. There is the perfect amount of cushion, and this formula is inherently comfortable on the lips. I love this color, and I find it so easy to wear.

5) Rouge Bunny Rouge When Birds Are Singing- Long-lasting Eye Shadow in Solstice Halcyon (Semi-matte mauve beige)- I would say that Solstice is more of a mauve beige taupe in color, and a gorgeous one at that. The formula is soft and silky, applies like a dream, and looks amazing on. This is the perfect shadow when you want a wash of color with some eyeliner and that's it. This is definitely one of my all-time favorite eye shadows.

6) MAKE UP FOR EVER Aqua Eyes Mat Black OL- Once you apply this pencil, it really won't budge. It's truly an amazing eye pencil.

MAKE UP FOR EVER Black Tango Palette NOW at Sephora!

For all of you that have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of the MAKE UP FOR EVER Black Tango Palette-- wait no more!! It has arrived at Sephora!

For the best review, swatches, and EOTD out there- visit Blushing Noir.

Ingredients: Isododecane, Synthetic Wax, Mica, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Zinc Stearate, Kaolin, Trioctyldodecyl Citrate, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Acrylates Copolymer, Isononyl Isononanoate, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Silica, Propylene Carbonate, Parfum (Fragrance), Tin Oxide, [+/- CI 77499 (Iron Oxides), CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), CI 77491 (Iron Oxides), CI 77510 (Ferric Ferrocyanide), CI 77492 (Iron Oxides), CI 77288 (Chromium Oxide Greens), CI 19140 (Yellow 5 Lake)].

$45.00 at Sephora
Stock images from Sephora.

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?

Late Night at MAKE UP FOR EVER: Thursday, August 23

For more information see the MAKE UP FOR EVER event details on Facebook, or contact them directly via the information provided above. Image source: MAKE UP FOR EVER. This looks like it will be lots of fun!

MAKE UP FOR EVER Academy New York is Accepting Applications Now!

Information and image from MAKE UP FOR EVER.

Red Lips, Anyone?

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This is for my friend Zuzu*s Petals (from Everyday Beauty)- not only to celebrate her love of blue-based red lipsticks, but also to make a visual response to the question she posed in her most recent article. In  "Wearing Red Lipstick...Do You?" she asked whether her readers wore red lipstick- so for a girl who has often feared red lipsticks I made the discovery that I had quite a few in my stash. Therefore, I have selected some of my favorite red lipsticks, lip glosses, and Lip Butters to show you. I have found that all of the lipsticks look phenomenal blotted down and used as a stain- if one is looking for training wheels in wearing red lipstick (which is precisely what I do!). I varied the lighting in order for you to get a better idea of the true color of each shade. The lip glosses and the lip butters prove to be a fool proof way to wear red as they are very easily sheered out or built up- depending on your mood.

Lipsticks:

1) Susan Thompson Cosmetics: Creamy Lipstick in Joplin (a gorgeous classic blue-based red)

2) Sunday Riley Modern Lip Color: American Rose Lipstick (a dark and rich blue-based red)

3) MAKE UP FOR EVER: Rouge Artist Intense #45 (blue-based satin raspberry red)

4) MAKE UP FOR EVER: Rouge Artist Intense in Moulin Rouge #43 (a satin vibrant red)

5) MAC: Unknown Pleasures (Mattene from Posh Paradise- LE) ( a deep intense blue-based red)

Lip Glosses:

1) Chanel: Glossimer in Spark (raspberry red with shimmer)

2) MAKE UP FOR EVER: Lab Shine Lip Gloss M10 (Morello Cherry with fuchsia and ruby shimmer)

3) LORAC: Bejeweled Lip Gloss Collection Red Ruby (gorgeous blue based ruby red)

4) Susan Thompson Cosmetics: Pout Poppers in Evelyn's Journey (a reddened burgundy plum with gold flecks)

Lip Butters:
1) Revlon: Colorburst Lip Butter in Red Velvet #40 (a deep blue-based red)
2) Revlon: Colorburst Lip Butter in Cherry Tart #70 (a mid-toned blue-based red)

If you simultaneously love and fear red, then lip glosses and lip butters are a really nice way to get your feet wet!

Hourglass Visionaire Eye Shadow Duo in Exhibition

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Yesterday on my way to my sister's house for dinner, I thought that I would make a quick trip to the Sephora near her house to see if they had any Ellis Faas at that location (thanks, Zuzu!), but unfortunately the Sephora clerk with whom I spoke was misinformed and there was no Faas at that location (sorry, Zuzu!). So while my mission had been thwarted I decided to take a look at the new MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Natural Lipsticks- which are GORGEOUS (thanks, Marcia!), and some Hourglass Visionaire Eye Shadow Duos. The line at Sephora was ridiculously long and for some reason was moving quite slowly so I decided I would look and swatch and buy later (probably a good thing since I am trying to be less impulsive- see this post). 

I had very little time, so my attention zeroed in on the Exhibition Hourglass Duo. I have one Hourglass single shadow from ages ago, and the texture is phenomenal. It is buttery soft, beautifully pigmented, and simply stunning. All of this can likewise be said about the Exhibition Duo. Exhibition is so finely milled and buttery soft that you will wonder why you didn't buy it years ago. The pigmentation is astounding, and the quality really is as good as it gets. The colors are spectacular. The left shadow is described as a mauve shimmer and the right is described as an eggplant shimmer on the Sephora website, and as a a deep purple on the Barneys website. I would suggest that left shadow is a mauvish taupe- definitely cool leaning, and ridiculously gorgeous and pigmented. The shadow on the right is somewhere in between an eggplant and a deep purple, and it is simply sublime. I swatched them both, and had planned on taking a picture the moment that I got to my sister's house, but between my sleeve and my niece's bear hug there was little left to photograph (sorry). Rest assured, I am buying this gorgeous duo and will do a full review with MANY swatches to accompany my effusive gush.

What I do not understand is why Hourglass Eye Shadows, and Hourglass in general gets so little love in our community of beauty bloggers! The quality is exceptional, and the colors are gloriously pigmented. The packaging is gorgeous- it comes in a bronze compact with a mirrored lid that swivels 360°- it is both innovative and convenient!

Additionally, the shadows are free of Sulfates, Synthetic Dyes and Phthalates. Hourglass does not test on animals.

Ingredients: Talc, Zinc Stearate, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Nylon-12, Cyclopentasiloxane, Polysilicone-11, Silica, Lauroyl Lysine, Methylparaben, Propylparaben. May Contain: Mica (CI 77019), Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77492), Iron Oxides (CI 77491), Iron Oxides (CI 77499), Carmine (CI 75470), Ultramarines (CI 77007), Manganese Violet (CI 77742), Blue 1 Lake (CI 42090:2), Chromium Oxide Greens (CI 77288), Ferric Ferrocyanide (CI 77510), Tin Oxide (CI 77861), Black 2 (CI 77266).<br /><strong>Exhibition, Suede, Prism:</strong><br />Talc, Zinc Stearate, Triethylhexanoin, Boron Nitride, Lauroyl Lysine, Methylparaben, Propylparaben. May Contain: Mica (CI 77019), Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77492), Iron Oxides (CI 77491), Iron Oxides (CI 77499), Carmine (CI 75470), Ultramarines (CI 77007), Manganese Violet (CI 77742), Chromium Oxide Greens (CI 77288), Ferric Ferrocyanide (CI 77510), Tin Oxide (CI 77861)

Initial assessment: I NEED THIS DUO, and so do you if you love mauvish taupe and the most regal purples. This is a definite must-have for cool toned beauties, and if you are fair and cool toned- you have just found eye shadow nirvana.

$38.00 at Sephora, Barneys, & Hourglass

MAKE UP FOR EVER 5N Brush Review

 

MAKE UP FOR EVER has a very nice range of professional brushes, and I have several in my stash that I really love. I have had the 5N Eyeshadow Brush for quite some time, but only recently started to use it on a regular basis. Truth be told, I'm not sure why I waited so long to put this brush into regular rotation- it really is extraordinary.

 

The nylon brushes from the N Line are "firmer, for precise application. They are perfectly adapted to the new generation of creamy and liquid make-up, and are becoming increasingly popular with professional make-up artists. Used with powder shadows, they pick up smaller quantities of the product, producing extremely subtle effects. They are instantly recognizable, with their metallic gray lacquered wooden handle, top-of-the-range nickel-plated brass collar and two-tone brown and cream bristles."

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MUFE suggests that this nylon brush is very versatile, and is highly effective with both cream and powder formulas, and that it applies and blends shadows particularly well on small surfaces. Additionally they suggest that it may also be used for the lips, and under the eyes to conceal dark circles, and to conceal blemishes on the face.

While I can certainly see the benefit to using this brush for all of these varied purposes, and with varied formulas, I limit the scope of use considerably. I have discovered that this brush is extraordinarily effective with the application of cream shadows. I principally use the 5N to apply MUFE Aqua Creams and MAC Paint Pots, but have on occasion used it to apply under eye concealer (which it does quite well). The soft but firm bristles pick up the right amount of pigment every time, and the flat and widened head allows one to apply the product to a large enough surface area that application can be done quickly and efficiently. This is particularly important for products with a fast dry down time- like the MUFE Aqua Creams. Because the bristles are nylon, and the brush is small enough- I can wash it frequently knowing that it will take no time to dry.

Overall assessment: I love this brush- it has quickly become my go-to brush for applying cream eye shadows. I simply wouldn't want to be without this brush- it is just so good at what it does!

$23.00 at Sephora

MAKE UP FOR EVER Launches New Aqua Shadow Pencils!

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If you are a fan of MUFE Aqua Liners and Aqua Creams the new Aqua Shadows that just launched are sure to thrill you! There are 12 shades that range from a matte black to a pearly white, and the formula promises to be "a smudge-proof, long-lasting eye shadow pencil that enhances and intensifies the eyes."

MUFE suggests that the Aqua Shadow formula is an "intensely pigmented, waterproof formula provides immediate, rich color that will not smudge, crease, or fade. Created with silica powder, its ultra creamy texture glides effortlessly on the eye lid and blends easily for an even result. Incredibly simple to use, Aqua Shadow quickly creates a multitude of dynamic and colorful looks."

This is formulated to be applied to the eyelid with fingers or a brush.

All Shades May Contain:
Cyclopentasiloxane, Synthetic Beeswax, Cera Microcristallina (Microcrystalline Wax), Magnesium Silicate, VP/Hexadecene Copolymer, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Myristyl Lactate, Stearoyl Inulin, C30-45 Alkyl Cetearyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Myristyl Alcohol, Silica, Propylene Carbonate, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Stearic Acid, Tin Oxide, [+/- Mica, CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), CI 77491 (Iron Oxides), CI 77492 (Iron Oxides), CI 77499 (Iron Oxides), CI 77000 (Aluminum Powder), CI 75470 (Carmine), CI 77288 (Chromium Oxide Greens), CI 77400 (Bronze Powder), CI 77510 (Ferric Ferrocyanide)].

0.14 oz $20.00 at Sephora

Erno Laszlo Controlling Face Powder (Loose) Review & Swatches

As I have mentioned in my other posts, I am no stranger to Erno Laszlo Skincare. It is the first luxury skincare line that I began using at the age of seventeen. I used it religiously for many years, but eventually strayed from the line. Recently I decided to revisit some of my old favorite products- among them the loose Controlling Face Powder in Translucent (Light). Erno Laszlo, having recently been sold to a new owner, is in the midst of designing new packaging, discontinuing some old products, creating new products, and relaunching the line that was at one time chiefly associated with Hollywood royalty the likes of Marilyn Monroe. 

Some of the Nordstrom store locations still have the loose Controlling Face Powder in stock, but online you will only find the Controlling Pressed Pressed Powder. I purchased mine in Translucent (Light) which is a barely-there neutral shade that I either wear on top of my Erno Laszlo Regular Normalizer Shake-It (reviewed here) or on top of whatever foundation or tinted moisturizer that I choose to wear. According to Erno Laszlo, Controlling Face Powder is a "Facial powder for normal to oily skin. Controlling Face Powder is a treatment powder that helps control oil all day long. It gives skin a polished, matte appearance." 

Back when I was seventeen I was reluctant to put anything like foundation on my skin, but this powder was considered part of the treatment line, and so I used it as such. It gave my skin such a beautifully polished appearance, or that flawless "Laszlo Look" in the vernacular of Laszlo devotees. 

If my early beauty routine had not been informed by the ordered specificity of the Laszlo regimen (read: regime- LOL, but there was a stringency to the order of things) I am not sure how I would approach the application of this loose powder, but every time I open this elegant faux Carrara marble jar I am transported back to the seventeen year old me. I was "taught" to apply the loose powder with a cotton ball and buff it into my skin until I reached a flawless level of blended perfection.

Today I still apply it with a cotton ball, but I leave all of the blending and buffing to either my Hakuhodo G527 (reviewed here) or my Hakuhodo G543 (reviewed here).

Unblended on my arm. Once blended it vanishes completely leaving only a  beautifully even complexion.

Laszlo's Controlling Face Powder has a refined light texture that is neither too drying, nor in the least bit cakey for my combination skin. It is very comfortable and long wearing, and since I'm not excessively oily in my T-Zone I don't require many touch-ups. Make no mistake, this formula is not for everyone- it is specifically formulated for normal to oily skin types. Beauties with dry complexions can receive the same lovely flawless finish with Laszlo's Duo-pHase Powder which is specifically formulated for extremely dry to slightly dry skin types. 

If you are opposed to using products that contain parabens- be sure to note that there are 5 of them in this powder.

Overall assessment: I am very happy with this product. It's pretty old school compared to powders such as MAKE UP FOR EVER's HD Microfinish Powder, but rest assured you will not see any of the horrifying bounce-back when the flash hits this Laszlo powder.

1 oz. $48.00

All stock images taken from Erno Laszlo. The remaining photographs are all mine.