Batting a Lash

Marelle BB Cream Review and FOTD

2012-01-27T05:11:00.000-08:00

A few posts ago I posted a little product info on Marcelle's new BB Cream. I was lucky enough get sent a tube of it before its official launch. I've been using it for about 2 weeks now every single day.

Your ultimate skin care enhancer for all ages and skin types, this multi-purpose skin care cream is more than a tinted moisturizer or simple make-up base. It perfects the skin to reveal a more even epidermis and well-hydrated, flawless complexion, all in one. Use it alone as a tinted moisturizer; over your moisturizer to unify your complexion and reduce the appearance of blemishes, or apply as a make-up base under foundation for total coverage and improved stay-on power. BB Cream is offered in two shades and is suitable for a wide variety of complexions thanks to its self-adjusting pigments that transform and adapt to skin tone. -marcelle.com

After more than two weeks of using it I can say I truly love it. I use it the same way I always used a tinted moisturizer and love the constancy and coverage.

If I do plan on wearing a foundation, it makes a great primer with the added benefit of good base of colour and it completely evens out my skin before the foundation. This means I need less foundation, or simply just bit of concealer.

before skin

after skin. only bb cream on face.
no foundation, no concealer, no power.
there is lipstick, eyeliner and mascara.

For the most part it has been used instead of my moisturizer and tinted moisturizer. I've noticed it goes on smooth, there is no unevenness and my skin feels better after using it.

one pump

blended

I do find it dryer than a tinted moisturizer though, which is a good thing for me. Sometimes when I use one I feel oily that day or that I need far to much to get any evenness and end up with way to much on.

before skin

after skin

Pros:

easy to find in stores
fast easy coverage
good coverage
helps improve skin over time
makes a great primer
evens out my skin fast without leaving it greasy or using too much product
great pump
replaces moisturizer for some people

Cons:

no SPF....yet...it is in the works.

Overall:
Two pumps is all I need to cover my whole face and neck.
I really do love the stuff, it is the first BB cream I have ever used so I can't compare it to others or explain all its benefits that well. So I do apologies for that, but I feel we should let the photos do the talking here.

Free Schick Hyrdro Silk Razor Givaway

2012-01-26T13:48:00.000-08:00

Want to get a free Schick Hydro Silk Razor?

The lovley people at Schick are giving away 25 razors to my lucky Canadian readers. All you have to do to get one is follow me on Facebook and comment under this post.

George's Cream Giveaway

2012-01-15T10:44:00.000-08:00

Since winter is the hardest time of year on our skin, George's Cream has asked me to hold a giveaway on their behalf. I am so excited since I have recently fallen in love with their collection of fragrance-free, colour-free, Canadian made amazing cream and moisturizer (see review here).

The winner of the giveaway will receive a gift bag that will include an assortment of George's Cream Special Dry Skin Cream (450 g jar & 30 ml tube) and George's Light Special Moisturizing Lotion (360 ml bottle and 30 ml tube). Prize package value: $35.00.

Contest closes on January 27, 2012 and is open to Canadian residence.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Say Bye-Bye To Dry Skin Thanks To George's Cream

2012-01-15T10:25:00.000-08:00

George's Cream and Moisturizing Lotion were created for lasting dry skin relief. Although there is no cure for many skin problems, George's provides relief from different types of skin symptoms and conditions. It works! That is why it is recommended by dermatologists, pharmacists and physicians. The therapeutic benefits of George's will provide immense relief for those suffering from many different conditions.

George’s Cream and George’s Daily Moisturizing Lotion are two fragrance free moisturizers that do not contain lanolin, parabens or urea. The cream comes in 3 package sizes: 30g tube for the purse, convenient 90g tube and an economical 450g jar. The lotion comes in 2 package sizes: 30ml tube for the purse and an attractive 360ml pump. -georgecream.com

my poor dry and scratched skin

Have you met my dry winter skin? Say hi to it.
Well don't get to used to it, and get ready to say bye-bye to it for good.

First off let me explain why my skin is this bad. My day job is a dog groomer. This mean I wash about a dozen dogs five days a week. That is two baths, on big and small dogs, hairy and short hair. Even cats, which is where the scratches come from. Then after bathing them, I get to dry them. Subjecting my hands to industrial dries, dog after dog, for hours a day.

Oh so dry

Now in the summer things don't get as bad because of Toronto's humidity, but now it is the cold, windy, snowy, icy, dry, winter...so my skin is toast.
It cracks, it bleeds, it peels and flakes. When you think of washing you hands and you know it is going to hurt, you know you need something strong! Now if I just try to use any lotion (kerry, luberderm, vaseline) I will scream and start to tear up. Why? Perfume and way too much water in the product.

cream left, light moisturizing lotion on right

So when I heard about how George's Cream was formulated by a Canadian, made in Canada, and for Canadians and our skincare needs without fragrance I jumped on trying it out.
George’s Special Dry Skin Cream is nice and thick. Moisturizing, but not greasy.

George’s Light Special Moisturizing Lotion is a little thinner, but not watery and takes little time to work into the skin. It is only slightly thinner than the cream, I am really liking it.

You can see after a few uses how much better my skin looks

Pros:

Canadian made
Fragrance Free
Great of lots of skin conditions
Absorbs fast into skin
Easily found in pharmacies.
Available in a variety of sizes
Inexpensive
No animal testing
Safe for Diabetics

Cons:

None

Overall:

This is a great Canadian made product that does not irritate the skin, absorbs easily, is not greasy. It leaves your skin feeling amazing.

*Products were sent to me for consideration, but do not reflect my views of the product.

Introducing Marcelle BB Cream

2012-01-12T21:12:00.000-08:00

Having no clue what a BB cream is, having never used one or what to even expect, I must say I had a few questions back at the Beauty P remiere event hosted by Marcelle/Annabelle back in the holiday season.

I heard the rumour that they were launching one and was lucky enought to pick their brain about it back at the event.Now I had a whole bunch of questions since it just seemed so foreign to me, so now that I have the answers I thought would share them with you before Marcelle launches their very own Canadian BB Cream.

What’s a BB?

We have also seen the expressions Blemish Base, Blemish Balm and Beauty Base.

Moisturizing skin care, tinted corrector and make-up base all in one, Marcelle“BB” stands for Beauty Balm, as it truly enhances your natural beauty.

How to use the MarcelleBB Cream, in 3 different ways:

1) The MarcelleBB Cream is a day cream which should be applied after the skin has been properly cleansed as a corrective tinted moisturizer. For a more intense moisture surge, the BB Cream may be applied on previously moisturized skin.

2) Use it alone or over your moisturizer to unify your complexion.

3) Use it as a make-up base under foundation for total coverage and improved stay-on power.

8 IN 1 MULTI-BENEFITS

This Beauty Balm with self-adjusting pigments, powerful antioxidants, aloe and chamomile does it all for your skin:

-Minimizes the appearance of imperfections and pores

-Evens out skin tone

-Provides an excellent make-up base and replaces primers

-Matifies skin and controls shine

-Offers immediate and long-term hydrating benefits

-Soothes and calms skins

-Protects from premature aging and environmental stresses

-Promotes skin regeneration

It perfects the skin to reveal a more even epidermis and well-hydrated flawless complexion, all in one.

FEATURES

-Ultra-lightweight formula leaves skin with “nothing on” feel

-Oil free -Non comedogenic

-Paraben free -Dermatologist tested

-Hypo-allergenic -Perfume free

-Ultra-hygienic airless tube-pump

So now I understand what a BB is much better, and I must say I cannot wait to give this baby a try.

Marcelle BB Cream will be available at pharmacies and mass retail stores across Canada as of February 6, 2012. Suggested retail price: $22.95 for 45 mL. On January 16, 2012, it will be available online at the Marcelle site in limited quantities with shipping is FREE with any purchase over $25.00 before taxes at shop.Marcelle.com.

Sally Hansen Collection & Swatches

2012-01-12T20:32:00.000-08:00

Xtreme Wear in White On
Xtreme Wear in Mellow Yellow
Xtreme Wear in Green With Envy
Xtreme Wear in Emerald City
Xtreme Wear in Black Out
Complete Salon Manicure in Touch Of Mink
Complete Salon Manicure in Trouble Maker
Xtreme Wear in Plum Power
Xtreme Wear in Fuchsia Power
Xtreme Wear in VIP Pink
Complete Salon Manicure in Hidden Treasure
Complete Salon Manicure in Angel Wings
Complete Salon Manicure in Golden Ticket
Complete Salon Manicure in Downtown Rubies

I really love 90% of these shades. The Xtreme Wear are extremely cheap and can be found on sale for about a $1 at times. The Complete Salon Manicure in comparison is much more pricy, they often cost about $9. I found many of my compete salon's at a sale for $2 and am very happy with my finds.

Angel wings has to be one of my favoutire effect coats. It makes cream shades that can be bland into an amazing pearly shade that I can never stop staring at.

Golden Ticket on the other hand can make a dull bronze shade into the prettiest things I have ever seen . I have an avon shade I never like, after layering Golden Ticket over it I couldn't stop admiring.

Overall I like cheapie ones for being cheap and good for the price where the higher priced ones I like because the shades and quality are great.

The Body Shop Holiday Haul

2012-01-12T19:57:00.000-08:00

I went and placed a nice big order at The Body Shop last weekend when they were having their holiday sale. Most of the items were 70% off so I went a little stupid.

What I got:

Cranberry Joy Shower, Scrub & Moisture Collection $7.50 ($27.00 Value)

50 ml Body Scrub
50 ml Body Butter
250 ml Shower Gel
100 g Soap

Candied Ginger Shower, Scrub & Moisture Set $7.50 ($27.00 Value)

50 ml Body Scrub
50 ml Body Butter
250 ml Shower Gel
100 g Soap

Heavenly Hand Set $12.50 ($30 Value)

30 ml Hemp Hand Protector
30 ml Almond Hand & Nail Cream
30 ml Wild Rose Hand Cream

Cranberry Joy Home Fragrance Oil $2.25 ($7.50 Value)
Candied Ginger Home Fragrance Oil $2.25 ($7.50 Value)
Candied Ginger Shower Gel $2.40 ($12.00 Value)

Cranberry Joy Body & Lip Care Collection $13.50 ($51.00 Value)

250 ml Shower Gel
200 ml Body Butter
200 ml Body Scrub
15 ml Lip Balm

December 2011 Favourites

2012-01-12T06:48:00.000-08:00

A little late, but still worth sharing, here are my December 2011 Favourites.

Vasanti USA Lipstick - the perfect red lip, perfect during the holidays.
Physicians Formula 2-in-1 Boosting Eyeliner - This makes the perfect wing line. Unlike other felt tipped liners, this one has many little bristles making up a brush that never gets ruined. As well it has so much product in it that it wont run out like the felt ones do. The perfect winged liner to go with the perfect red lip.
Annabelle Glitterama Liquid Eyeliners - Sparkly and oh so pretty, on top of black liner makes for such a dramatic look. I have about 4 of these in many colours and find them all fun and great during the holidays.
Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer - Colder weather means dryer skin, which means I reach for tinted moisturizer more ofthen. This has to be the best one for me out there. I used it a lot last month.
The Body Shop Satsuma Collection- Always a big fan of The Body Shop, I opened up a set of Satsuma that I got back in May, needless to say I remember why I got it. I love the smell, the scrub, the body butter the body wash. There is nothing not to love about these products. The body butter smell lasts for so long too.Mmmm.

There you go, as you can tell I wore the basic black liner and red lips a lot and dressed it up with some amazing glitter liner. Not too fancy, but it always looks great and is easy to do during the busy holiday season.

Joe Fresh Nail Polish Collection Swatches

2012-01-12T04:57:00.000-08:00

Left to Right:

Caramel
Seashell
Kiss
Fuchsia
Orchid
Eggplant
Mallard
Peacock
Twilight
Crush Orange

I love Joe Fresh Polishes!
They go on smooth and have great seasonal shades. Best of all they are cheap at 3/$10 or $4 each. I always feel a little sad that Americans generally don't have access to these great products.

Conair High Torque Folding Handle Cord-reel Dryer Review

2012-01-12T04:24:00.000-08:00

Featuring Tourmaline Ceramic technology that helps promote shiny, healthy hair, 3 heat/2 speed settings for precision styling and a cool shot for locking the style, this 1875-watt dryer is the perfect blend of power and versatility. Retractable cord retracts into the handle with the touch of a button. Folds conveniently for easy storage and dual voltage makes it perfect for travel. -conair.com

I was in desperate need of a new hair dryer, my old one is more than 11 years old and really was not cutting it. Now that it is winter when I definitely can not go out with wet or even damp hair, I thought now was the time.

I debated getting a high end one like a T3 or a GHD but since I don't use a hair dryer as much as I should and I have heard good things about lower end Tourmaline driers I thought I would search out one at a lower price point.

Two features I made a must have were a retractible cord and a folding handle. I found this in this model.

Here is the spec sheet on the product:

1875 watts
High Torque motor flows air through at higher velocity, drying hair faster than most dryers
Tourmaline Ceramic technology for shinier, healthier, more manageable hair
3 heat / 2 speed settings
Cool shot
Concentrator
Diffuser
Retractable line cord with push-button control
Folding handle for convenient storage/travel
Dual voltage
2 year limited warranty

So far I have only used it a few times but I must say it works much faster than my old one, and leaves my hair much softer and less tangled (something I hate about driers, so I am really happy).

Another thing that is great is the heat and power settings are seperate. No more low meaning medium or high meaning hot. You can turn it to medium speed and hot heat or medium heat with high power or heck cool with high power. So great!

The cord retracting makes storing easier and so does the folding handle.

Pros:

Folding handle
Retractible cord
Tourmaline for less friz and faster drying
Dual voltage
Concintrator
Fiffuser
Cool shot
Multiple settings
Not expensive

Cons:

None

Overall:

I am loving this drier, my hair is dried faster, with less frizz and in faster time. Plus it stores neater without having a cord to get tangled and in the way.

My OPI Collection

2012-01-09T20:39:00.000-08:00

As it currently stands this is my OPI, Sephora by OPI and Nicole by OPI collection.

Left To right:
Sephora by OPI in Charge it
Sephora by OPI in Only Gold For Me
Sephora by OPI in It's Bouquet with Me
Sephora by OPI in Metro Chic
Sephora by OPI in Under My Trench Coat
OPI in Lemonade Stand By Your Man
Nicole by OPI in My Lifesaver
OPI in Jade Is The New Black
OPI Shatter in Silver Shatter (over my lifesaver)
OPI Shatter in Black Shatter (over my lifesaver)
OPI in Let Me Entertain You (not shown, oops sorry)

I am always drawn to the Sephora's lines shades, only to hate myself for liking them. They cost more than the regular line. I often find the regular line on sale at Winners/Marshalls/Homesense or Trade Secrets. They always go on very well and last a good amount of time.

I find the shatter to be a bit thin and prefer the China Glaze versions.

American Apparel Nail Polish Swatches

2012-01-09T20:27:00.000-08:00

Left to right: Cocoa, Malibu Green, Neon Coral, Angeline, Neon Violet

I have worn Neon Violet and must say it not only went on smoothly and covered well in just two coats, but it lasted pretty darn well on my nails. I found I had less chipping than with my normal polishes.

I really like these polishes and will most likely be picking up some more some time soon.

2011 Favourites

2012-01-09T11:51:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking for a week now of what my favourites for the whole year have been. I am kinda stumped. I am going to break everything down by category to make it easier.

Skin Care:

L'oreal Youth Code Serum - I love this stuff. I have gone through 3 of them since discovering it.
L'oreal Youth Code Day Lotion - I have used 2 of these up this year. I will get more once I use up some of my already opened lotions.
Origins Clean Energy Cleansing Oil - I have always loved Mac Cleanse Off Oil, but this just is better. It seems to last forever too, so I will be using it for a long, long time.
Marcelle Soothing Cleansing Water - I love how this removes anything on your face with no need to rinse. I have replaced wipes with this and cotton pads. So amazing.

Body:

Bath and Body Works Forever Sunshine Creamy Body Wash - I fell in love with this smell this summer. I even got the perfume, cream and body spray. I love it.
Bath and Body Works Butterfly Flower Creamy Body Wash/Bubble Bath and Body Wash - I discovered the BBW outlet this year and loaded up on this discontinued item. I even have room spray and burning oil in this fragrance. I was drawn to it because of the butterfly in the name, but fell in love with the smell.

Fragrance:

Mark Ibiza Sol - I love this aqua summery scent. Love it.
Bath and Body Works Forever Sunshine - As I said, I love the smell of this scent.

Lips:

EOS Lip Balm - I found this as a fluke, and I love it, not too thick, not too heavy, but really effective and great smelling.
Revlon Lip Butters - I got Cupcake a few weeks ago on sale, and I wish I had gotten more. So nice and moisturizing with lots of colour
Tarte LipSurgence - I picked up a few of these in a few different sets this winter. Even though some are Natural Lip Tints and some are Natural Lip Lusters, I like them all the same. A great lip product for sure.

Eyes:

L'oreal La Couleur Infallible Eyeshadow - I love these shadows, they are amazing. Creamy, but a powder, loose but pressed at the same time. Simply amazing.
Buxom Stay There Shadows - With dog breed names how could I not love these. They actually are amazing to use, have great pigmentation, come in quite a few great colours and are long lasting.
Avon Smooth Minerals Mascara - This mascara wand is like an hour glass so it catches all the lashes all at one. As well the formula leaves your lashes super soft and very full.
Physicians Formula Eye Booster 2-in-1 Lash Boosting Eyeliner + Serum - best eyeliner ever! Unlike felt tipped ones, this one has a very fine brush that never gets ruined. As well when you shake it you will hear there is lots and lots of liner inside it, unlike others that dry up in less than a few weeks.

Face Makeup:

Elf Studio Foundation - I am shocked at how much I love this foundation. My only regret is not getting two.

Hair:

MoroccanOil - Big shock here, doesn't everyone love it?
L'oreal Total Repair 5 Mask - I love this mask...My hair always feels amazing when it is done.
L'oreal Total Repair 5 Leave-in Conditioner - This has to be the best leave in conditioner spray out there. It leaves my hair extra soft, detangles and doesn't weight it down.
GHD Iron - I love this flat iron. I never thought I would find something that just worked after one pass.

Pari Beauty Tricks of The Trade Kit FOTD Look

2011-12-31T09:20:00.000-08:00

I decided I wanted to show off some of the looks from the Pari Beauty palettes I got.

I wanted to show off a pink/green look from the Tricks of the Trade Kit.

I started with the eye primer all over the eyelid and under the brow bone.

For this look I used the top left shade (the lightest) under my brow bone and in the tear duct area. I then put the far left top shade (the light pink) on my inner half of the eye lid. I then put the middle top row shade (a nude bronze) on the outer half of the eye. I followed this with the middle left shade (darker pink) on the outer V and crease.

I then tightened my lash lines and water lines with the black shadow. I then smoked the dry black shadow over the top lash line and smudged it out.

Finally I took the middle middle shade (the green) and put it on my lower lash line.

I then put on the darker of the two glosses and blended the blush and the lighter of the duo bronzer/highlighter shades on my cheeks.

I must say these shadows and bronzers are super soft and blend amazingly.

Pari Beauty Black Tie Kit FOT Look #2

2011-12-29T21:02:00.000-08:00

I decided I wanted to show off some of the looks from the Pari Beauty palettes I got.

This is a black smokey look from the Black Tie Kit.

For this look I used the bottom row of eyeshadows, a mixture of the bronzer and highlighter and the gloss.

I put the lightest of the shades in the row all over my eyelid and brow area. I then placed the second shade (the lightest silver) on the inner third of the lid, followed by the middle shade on the outer two thirds of the lid. I then took the darkest silver on the crease and outer v of the eye. I blended it downward on an angle so that it creates quite a shimmery yet dark effect. I then lined the top and bottom lash lines with black shadow (dry) and smoked it out. I then took the lightest silver and placed it on the lower water line (I often use shadows and pigments to do this, you can also use a liner, I realize this might not actually be eye safe).

For my face I mixed both the bronzer and the highlighter and lightly applied to the apples of my cheek and blended back.

I applied gloss and was done.

While it might not look it in these photos, this is really a dark smokey look, more suited for a night out.

American Apparel Nail Polish Haul

2011-12-29T20:22:00.000-08:00

Just before the holidays I purchased two Team Buys for American Apparel. One was $15 for 5 nail polishes (a $45 value), the other was $20 for an Infinity Scarf ($32.50 value). I always wanted to try both of these things.

I had to pay the taxes when I redeemed the items, which was about $2 for each transaction.

I'm very excited to try these out, I have never used them before, but have heard good things.

These are the polishes I picked up:

Malibu Green:

Angeline:

Neon Coral:

Neon Violet:

Cocoa:

Pari Beauty Black Tie FOTD Look #1

2011-12-29T07:59:00.000-08:00

I decided I wanted to show off some of the looks from the Pari Beauty palettes I got.

This is a brown/bronze look from the Black Tie Kit.

I didn't want to go overboard with this look, I was aiming for more of a day look.

I used the first row of brown/bronze shades, the gloss and a light dusting of the bronzer.

I put the lightest shade all over, then the next shade up on the inner third of the lid and tear duct area. Followed by the middle shade on the middle third of the lid. The forth shade goes on the outer third. I then took the darkest shade and applied it along the bottom and top lash lines and into the outer V and crease. I blended well and took the 2nd darkest shade onto the lower lash line.

I followed this with a bit of gloss and a tad of bronzer.

Pari Beauty Tricks of the Trade Palette Swatches and Review

2011-12-28T20:38:00.000-08:00

A few weeks back Pari Beauty sent me their new Holiday Palettes (Black Tie and Tricks of the Trade). I'm finally getting some time to do swatches and pictures. I apologies for my dry skin, tis the season.

Tricks of the Trade Full Face Kit includes:

8 richly pigmented eyeshadows
1 full sized customer favourite precious glow illuminating primer
2 luscious lip gloss shades
1 perfect flush blusher
1 highlighter
1 mineral highlighter/bronzer duo illuminating powder
1 double ended applicator

Sells for $69.00

Front of box

Back of box

Inside

Inside again

eyeshadow swatches

Glosses and eye primer

duo bronzer/highlighter (the two left swatches),
highlighter (top right) and blush (right bottom)

Review:

This palette seems to have everything in it, including a full sized eyeshadow primer.

The eyeshadow primer is great, it works well and has such a pigmented colour of its own.

The bronzer highlight duo is very pretty and pigmented on its own. It really is pretty. The highlighter is matte and goes on a bit chalky on my arm but looks nice on the face. I like that with all the shimmer out there they give a matte option.

The shadows go on smoothly, my hand does them no justice. The black is the only one that went on a bit chalky, it is also the only matte one. The rest are either shimmery or satiny. I love the pigmentation of the shadows.

The glosses are nicely pigmented and a little sticky. I don't find them crazy sticky, but pretty sticky non the less.

This is a nice contrast to the Black Tie set, which shadows are all brown or black. There is such a pretty variety of shades.

Pros:

Great variety of colours

Matte highlighter is a nice change

Bronzer and highlighter duo are gorgeous

Full sized eyeshadow primer

Pigmented glosses

Mirror

Canadian

Good price

Cons:

Glosses are a bit sticky

matte highlighter and black shadow are a bit chalky

Overall:
This is a great palette for giving to someone who might be a bit afraid of colour, it has such a variety of shades they can play around and get comfortable with colour. I pretty much love this palette, I really think for the price it is a great deal.

I plan on putting two looks up tomorrow that use this palette.

Pari Beauty Black Tie Palette Swatches and Review

2011-12-28T20:20:00.000-08:00

Black Tie is a full face kit that contains:

mirrored tri-fold travel compact
10 blendable eyeshadows
1 full sided lip gloss
1 contour/bronzing powder
1 highlighting face shimmer
applicators

Sells for $38.25

Front of box

Back of box

Inside

Inside: mirror, brushes and ingredients

eyeshadow swatches

more eyeshadow swatches

Bronzer (middle), highlighter/shimmer (left) and gloss (right)

Bronzer (bottom), highlighter/shimmer (middle) and gloss (top) again

Review:

I think this might be the perfect travel set. It folds up nice and small, has a mirror and everything you need in one place.

I love that the shadows are either browns or blacks, making it more suitable for everyone, rather than a set with bold colours that might have one or two shades that turn people off (ex. blue, I don't wear blue shadows and it often throws me).

I love that there is a full sized gloss so you can take it with you for the night when you go out.

The bronzer is really pigmented. Crazy pigmented. That being said the highlighting face shimmer is so metallic it looks like an eyeshadow that has been foiled. With a gentle hand it looks amazing on the skin. I don't think I have ever seen such potent face powders before.

The eyeshadows are pigmented and go on really well, my hands don't do them justice (once again they are dry).

Pros:

Good price
Everything you need but mascara and foundation
Great for a so many occasions
Has both brown and black shades for more diverse looks and smokey eyes
Full sized gloss
Super pigments bronzer and highlighter
Small
Great for travel
Canadian company

Cons:

Limited time

Overall:

I love this set and with its low price I would buy it as a gift for someone in an instant.

Will be doing two looks tomorrow using it.

3rd Empties Post

2011-12-23T04:48:00.000-08:00

Look at all those...empties? Ok most are not empties, most are tosses but they still count.

Got2be hotie heat leave in conditioner: I like it, I then forgot about it and it is now all dried up and gross. Toss. Would I buy it again? maybe. I had no issues with it but I am trying something else right now.

LaCoupe Fragrance Free Leave in Conditioner: I used it up. I liked it a lot but I must say there is perfume in it. Would I buy it again? I like others better but it is made in Canada so if I could find it I would.

John Frieda Brilliant Brunette Conditioner: Yep another one. I have one more to use up. Would I buy it again? If I see it at a dollarama again I will.

The Body Shop Coconut Shower Cream: I like this so much I got a big one...but the pump sucks. I have to pump it 10 times to get what I need. So this really isn't an empty...I just poured what I had left into another bottle. Would I buy it again? Yes

Bath and Body Works Forever Sunshine Body Wash: I love this so much. Love it! Would I buy it again? YES!!!

L'oreal Youth Code Day Lotion:This is my second one to be emptied. I like it a lot.Would I buy it again? Yes, but I have lots of other things to use up first.
Sally Hansen Carmindy Translucent Powder: I hated this. It is fine enough but leaves a big white cast on me that I cant kill. I got it for $2 at dollarama, I've seen it for $22 at Shoppers. Would I buy it again?No! I hated it so much it wasn't worth the $2.

Various ELF Lip Glosses: I decided my lip drawer was too full (really too full) and the things that I would never use, never use and were just plain old need to go. I got the Candy Shop one free with a purchase and it caused numbness on my lips, but not other peoples. The others were ok and cheap enough but I never use them and they are old now. Would I buy again? Probably not.

More Glosses: There is Mark's version of Oglow, it is nice and I liked it but never use it. A green Avon Gloss, an H&M gloss from Europe about 6 years ago, 2 Smashbox glosses that never smelt right, Mark lip balm (dog ate the lid, I used this on all up by the way) and 2 more ELF glosses.Would I buy them again? Some I liked, some I didn't, so I'll say no.

Glymm Box December 2011

2011-12-18T05:19:00.001-08:00

I got my final Glymm Box this week. The lovely Meredith from Et Tu And You got me a three month subscription for my birthday. I have really enjoyed this gift. Thanks again Meredith!

What I got this month:

Caudalie Vinoperfect Enzymatic Peel Mask - trial size 3ml - full size 40ml retails for $40 - Oh a peel mask, I love those. This seems big enough for just one does but that is good.
Ahava Mineral Hand Cream - trial size 20ml /0.68fl oz- full size 3.4 oz retails for $20 - not going to lie, I need hand cream. My poor hands look 40 years older than me. I was dogs for a living so hand cream is my friend. Always looking for a new and better cream, at any price. Will pop this into my purse ASAP.
Yves Saint Laurent La Parisienne -trial size 7.5 ml/0.25 fl oz- full size is 3 oz retails for $85 - I love the little bottle. I might give this away for christmas, I might start collecting mini perfume bottles. Either way great item.
Sula Beauty Natural Lip Gloss in Come Find Me -Full size- 0.5 fl oz retails for $8 - More lip gloss. Not complaining. I've just got so many between my two boxes. I've never heard of this company and I am anxious to try it.
Glymm Gift Code Gift code for $10 off a glymm purchase on their site. This will be handy for sure. I have some points and this will help me get more goodies on my order.

Rating: A
I think this box had a good variety without resorting to another anti-aging product. The mini perfume is nice and so is the gloss. One full sized product (worth $8 is good), I feel I got a good value if I had paid for it myself.

Will I subscribe myself:
Now that my gift sub is over would I spend my own money on a Glymm Box? Yes!!! But not for a while. I have far to many unused products building up and feel I need a break for sample boxes for a bit, for my own good.

NOTE:
It annoys me to no end that glymm uses oz on their description forms. This is a Canadian item, use the metric system!!! Even with that they don't have consistency to it, sometimes 'oz' are listed and other 'fl oz' when the products always say 'fl oz'. Grr. Canadian pet peeve I guess.

Luxe Box By Loose Button December 2011

2011-12-18T05:19:00.000-08:00

I got my December Luxe Box this week. This will be my last box for a while. Why? I've gotten 8 of them since I started my subscription in May, and while I like getting them, every month is killing me with products. I have too much of an untouched stash building and must work on that before acquiring any more stuff.

What I got:

Yves Rocher 24H Vitality Anti-fatigue Skin Care - trial size 15 ml- 50ml retails for $52- it seems like a fair size, but really more anti-aging stuff. Sigh.
Moroccanoil Moisture Repair Shampoo & Conditioner - trial sizes 70 ml- 240 ml retails for $21 or $22- I like Moroccanoil, so I am interested in the conditioner, but no go for the shampoo, I just don't use it. It only makes sense they sent both though. **EDIT** I was informed below in the comments that this in fact is not part of the box but also making up for the mess up last month...sigh.
Nina Ricci L'air Du Temps and Nina -trial size 1.2 ml- 50 ml retails for $72 (L'air) and $65 (Nina) - Big Big let down here. These are the smallest samples you could ever get. Not a deluxe sample at all.
NYX Slim Eye Pencil in 901 Black - Full sized - 1g retails for $4 - Full sized is always nice, but it is a $4 item I can get on sale for $2.50.

Bonus?

Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray -trial size 75 ml- 300 ml retails for $24- This is to replace the expired product they gave us last month. I am not even going to consider it part of this box.

Rating: C- **EDIT** D+

I am glad I am stopping getting their boxes. I am getting far too jaded. Two tiny free perfume samples dose not equal a deluxe sample. I could go to a counter and get it for free. Boo. The note (I didn't get it but co-worker did) says I've been getting bonus items. While I did last month (and I loved last months box by the way), I don't feel the replacements for last months expired item counts as a bonus. I do like that they owned up to the expired issue, but don't pass it off as a bonus.
A $4 liner and ~~a shampoo/conditioner with~~ another anti-aging item and free crapy perfume samples hardly seemed worth it this time.

Pari Beauty Holiday Palettes and a Special Discount

2011-12-16T04:13:00.000-08:00

This holiday season Pari Beauty has launched two limited edition holiday palettes.

Black Tie Palette ($150 Value) will sell for $38.25

This ''Black Tie'' Collection consists of 10 complementary shades for the perfect palette of wearable, smoky eye options for day to night and every memorable moment in between.
These pigment-rich, high performing shadows are offered in an essential range of hues in silky shimmers.
Create the perfect look by combining sultry eyes with flushed dewy bronzed cheeks and luscious lips.
10 neutral and smokey eye shades

Full sized high shine lipgloss

Holiday edition bronzer/contour powder

Illuminating face highlighter

Mirror and applicators

All wrapped in a unique 3 panel fold out palette

Tricks of the Trade ($200 Value) will sell for $69

This exclusive Limited Edition kit brings the true makeup artist secrets to you.

This kit features our top 8 hand picked refillable eyeshadows in provocative metallic hues and complementary lip and cheek shades.It also includes our new feature product

''Mineral Highlighter/Bronzer Duo'' and our customer favorite Precious Glow Illuminating Shadow Primer.

8 highly pigmented eyeshadows

2 ultra gloss lip colours

2 silky soft blushers

1 full sized precious glow illuminating and intensifying eye primer

1 double ended makeup brush

These palettes are available at through their site, Sears site, their kiosks and their Sears counters during the holiday season.

I plan on creating a few looks using these palletes in the next few days, maybe making a video on them and doing a full review.

Pari Beauty has given me the opportunity to give my readers a discount of 15% off these palettes until December 30th. If you are interested please contact me (jill@jillojello.com). This offer is not available in stores or online, only through contacting me.

Foxy Originals Friends and Family sale and Sephora Haul

2011-12-11T19:32:00.000-08:00

I went to the Foxy Originals Friends and Family Sale on wednesday, followed by a stop in at Sephora.

I made a little video explaining the night and what I got.

The Foxy Originals' sale was held at the Bata Shoe Museum in Toronto. I picked up two necklaces, "You Are My SunShine" and a silver version of the "Shine" necklace. I couldn't pass them up.

I also got a swag bag, to see what was in it please watch the video.

At Sephora I picked up a Lara Mercier Tinted Moisturizer (1oz), Buxom Stay There Shadow in Shih Tzu and a Philosophy Body Wash/Bubble Bath/Shampoo in Marshmallows Toasting.

is 1oz and cost $24

I wanted this set, but they pulled it from Canada

Was $7

New Directions Aromatics Haul

2011-12-09T11:45:00.000-08:00

I decided for the holidays that I would try to make some homemade goods. I've already made my chili oil and cookie mix in a jar. Now I've made lip balms in the past from bees wax and sweet almond oil, so this time I decided to make my own body butters and salves.

I also wanted some more shea and cocoa butters for myself, so I thought buying from a manufacturer was my best bet.

I looked around on the internet for quite a while before I decided I wanted to order from New Directions Aromatics. I chose them for a few reasons:

They have a Canadian location, in fact it is in Brampton.
Many of the products are made in that Canadian facility (others in their American location).
I could pick it up if I wanted
Shipping was cheap ($8.30 for 8.8 lb package)
Delivery would be fast
No duty and more importantly no brokerage fees.
The products looked great
They offer in store classes

This is what I got:

1 x Orange Sweet Essential Oil 100 ml
1 x Lotion Base with Jojoba Cosmetic Bases 1 L
1 x Coffee Blend Butter 100 g
1 x Shea Butter 100% Natural (Burkina Faso) 100 gm
1 x Avocado Carrier Oil 473 ml
1 x Orange Blend Butter 100 g
1 x Lemon Blend Butter 100 g
1 x Coffee Cake & Spice Fragrant Oil 30 ml
1 x Sodium Lactate Preservative 100 ml
1 x Cocoa Butter - 100% Natural 500 gm
1 x Orange Creamsicle Fragrant Oil 100 ml
1 x Boston Round White PET Plastic Bottle (sample) 500 ml

I am very excited to try all of these items out. If you want to see what they look like better and see what I think, please watch the video.