the raeviewer - a premier blog for skin care and cosmetics from an esthetician's point of view

Best of Fall 2020 Beauty Favorites featuring Skin Care + Life Update

2020-10-02T07:20:00.009-07:00

Hello, everyone! What a break it has been. I am making a comeback, rejuvenated refreshed and ready to create content after becoming a licensed esthetician! It has been a long journey and an evolution, to be a bit dramatic, but I'm proud to have made it back here here. This post took me an entire week from start to finish as I'm rusty beyond belief.

It feels a bit unfamiliar since this is my first foray into blogging in over a year, and I'm learning everything all over again with a new camera among other aspects, so I decided to start with what is essentially a list of the products I've loved this year and am continuing to use into the Fall season.

Grab that cup of coffee or tea and let's get started!

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REVIEW | Best of Budget Beauty Buys ♡ Affordable Recommendations

2019-08-02T03:29:00.000-07:00

As I shared recently, I have moved back to San Diego and have been settling in. I have made it my mission since going back to esthetician school to discover the best in affordable skin care and beauty because I want you to know that beautiful skin is achievable regardless of budget. I have worked with dermatologists (professionally and personally) so here I’ll be weighing in on the budget buys that are actually worth the money. And yes, I purchased all these products myself

Sometimes people ask me if I use anything affordable and it makes me laugh. Not because I’m being snooty, but because I realized I should probably talk about my budget beauty staples more often! I’ve partnered with Walmart to share my go-to products, especially because they offer next day delivery so I don’t even have to go to the store. I keep my beauty stash stocked with these essentials and have repurchased them again and again::

Neutrogena Hydroboost Gel-Cream was recommended by my dermatologist Dr. Chiu for use after she gave me the most intense (and most effective) chemical peel I’ve ever experienced. My skin was basically raw. Since it was so fresh, sensitive, fragile, and easily irritated, she told me I needed something gentle and simple, without any actives, to soothe and calm. I only like the Gel-Cream from the HydroBoost line because it feels the most comfortable on my skin. I still use this any time my skin is freaking out and also before going to the gym since it doesn’t clog my pores.
Differin Adapalene 0.01% Acne Treatment is a product that was once RX only, but now it’s available at Walmart for the lowest price I could find at $10.88 on rollback. My dermatologist had prescribed me a different big brand name adapalene topical treatment, and I paid an arm and a leg, even with my insurance. The Differen works almost as well for a fraction of the cost! Since my break outs are usually limited to period week, I tend to use the Differin as a spot treatment instead of all over the face. It works really well on wrinkles and fine lines as well, so it is a great multi-tasking skin care booster that you can treat as a serum.
Clean and Clear Night Relaxing Cleansing Wipes smell heavenly, a hint of lavender. I have been using these for two years, and my dermatologist gave me the green light to keep using them. No break outs, even when I fall asleep without rinsing after on those very rare drunken nights. These wipes are so thick and fully saturated but not dripping wet. I find a lot of wipes too dry or too greasy. These are just right! Although they're oil free, they are able remove all traces of waterproof mascara without stinging my eyes.
Dove Body Wash Mousse with Rose Oil is something I decided to try because my friend Sabrina of The Beauty Look Book raved about it. I have extremely dry body skin so I normally stay away from foaming products, but I find this hydrating. The whipped formula is fun to use, quite plush and velvety which makes it a convenient double for shaving cream. It smells like a heavenly rose garden. This is, by far, the best affordable body cleansing product that I’ve ever tried! I plan to try the Argan Oil one next.
L’Oreal Lash Paradise Waterproof Mascara is the best mascara under $10. Since it holds curl, lengthens, and doesn’t clump, I hoard this and use this on all my brides and bridesmaids. A lot of waterproof mascaras tend to flake off after drying, but this one does not. I test a lot of mascaras, but this is the best on the market for the price! I actually wear the regular (non-waterproof) on my lower lashes every day in the wintertime, but now that it’s summer I stick to the waterproof one.
Beautyblender Micro Mini Sponges were a surprise find! I had no idea that Walmart carried them, so I was thrilled to get these discounted. I think these tiny ones are underrated because they are versatile and much easier to keep clean than the full-sized one. I use them for concealer, foundation, and contour. Once I received my order and was sure the quality was the same as all the other Beautyblender minis in my collection, I ordered a few more sets to keep in bridal kit. They’re way easier to keep clean and I find the size, when damp, expands to the perfect size for smaller faces.
Eylure False Lashes are some of the very best in the business. I like all their natural styles and keep them well stocked in my kit, but their bigger layered styles suit my eye shape best. These Vegas Nay by Eylure Grand Glamour false eyelashes are only $4 which I think are quite a steal, making them my go-to pair for day to day wear. They’re light enough where I can wear them all day, but pretty enough where I can wear them alone or with eyeshadow.

The following products are new to my collection but they earned a two thumbs up:

L’oreal Infallible Pro-Matte Les Macarons Scented Liquid Lipsticks in Mon Caramel, Guava Crush, and Praline de Paris. I don't recommend drinking or eating while wearing these, but I absolutely LOVE the way they look on. I slowly build three layers, using my middle finger to firmly press the formula into my lips as it dries down. It helps the color adhere to the lips, creating texture and volume in a way that looks natural (without having to draw outside the lip lines).
L’Oreal Infallible Waterproof Full Coverage Concealer is something I keep in my bridal kit lately. I use it like a foundation, since it is waterproof, and blend it out thoroughly on top of the Hydroboost Gel-Cream in addition to a hydrating primer if necessary. It works really well as a cream contour as well. I am highly impressed by this concealer and use it on myself! It reminds me of Tarte’s Shape Tape, but it blends out just as well and doesn’t oxidize whatsoever and is significantly more affordable. I mix shades Vanilla and Cashew with my Micro Mini Sponges by Beautyblender to create a seamless blend.
Real Techniques Everyday Essentials Makeup Set is raved about by everyone online, so I finally caved. I use them mostly for cream products like foundation, concealer, and highlighter blush. Normally I find that synthetic brushes are a pain to wash, but these were a breeze. I really enjoy the largest fluffy brush for layering on base products and the smaller powder brush for concealer or highlighter. The construction of the brushes is top notch for the price and will be purchasing more in the future!
Essie Gel Couture Nail Polish in Sheer Fantasy was a random splurge. Since I am an esthetician and touch people’s faces and skin, I no longer get acrylic nails and do my own manicures at home. I now prefer sheers since they are easy to apply and remove. Two thin coats of Sheer Fantasy exceeded all my expectations. The color is a slightly milky pale pink-nude, softening the appearance of my rather stark nail line. My nails look polished with minimal effort!
Essie Gel Couture Platinum Grade Top Coat caught my eye while browsing through the gel polish colors. I wasn’t going to bother with the top coat since I change my polish every four days now to keep my nails short and pristine, but wow, it is an excellent dupe for the Chanel Gel Top Coat! I’m super impressed!! It dries quickly and it looks glossy without feeling thick or goopy. The glossy effect fades noticeably after four days, but I wash my hands constantly and use chalk when during my barbell work outs.
Maybelline Master Chrome Metallic Highlighter in Molten Peach is another beauty buy that was influenced by Sabrina. I am not sure I love this as a highlighter but it does make for a beautiful eyeshadow! There are some larger silver shimmer particles that make it pop on my lids. I put it on my lower lash lines in my Best of Budget Beauty Buys Video for a brightening effect.
EcoTools Bristle Bath Brush is my latest bath time essential because it keeps my back acne at bay. The summer skin struggle is real! I really enjoy backless tops, but racebacks and sports bras tend to trap sweat and clog pores. The bristles of this brush are soft but exfoliate the skin well so I use it every day now. My shoulder mobility is somewhat limited from sleeping on my right shoulder, so the long handle of the brush helps me reach the areas of my upper back that are difficult to scrub with a handheld loofa.

I am a creature of habit, but I keep an open mind and am always willing to try new products, especially skin care now that my complexion is calm and clear. I’d love to know any budget beauty buys that you can’t live without, so please let me know what you think I should try next in the comments!

Sponsored by Walmart. As always all opinions are my own.

JEWELRY | My Favorite Gold Earrings

2019-07-07T13:52:00.002-07:00

I was inspired by my Charlotte Tilbury Pillowtalk Eyeshadow Palette to compile my most worn rose and rose gold earrings to share with you, since I get asked about the brands and styles I wear often. My current favorite? These gorgeous vermeil Large Connection Earring Hoops by Au-Rate.

I almost exclusively don earrings since my tiny fingers are a size 4.25 to 4.5, making most rings impossible for me to wear, and necklaces tend to irritate my neck and get caught in clothing. Hence, I consider earrings easy and low maintenance and accentuate my makeup as much as my clothing does — case in point, the Pillowtalk palette on my eyes in the photo above. I'll share my other favorite earrings after the jump!

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TUTORIAL | La Prairie Skin Caviar Powder Foundation and Skin Caviar Loose Powder Review

2019-06-07T08:44:00.003-07:00

I have had a 16 year long affair with powder foundation, as that is one of the first three makeup
products I ever tried and wore regularly as a teenager. As a skin care conscious woman, I
appreciate luxurious complexion products the most. I never, ever skimp on my foundations and
powders. La Prairie’s powders are well known for their expert fusion of science and artistry,
enriched with Caviar Extract which is known for its firming and lifting benefits.

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NIGHT OUT FIT | Reformation Venezia Butterfly Midi Dress and Static Nails Pop-On Reusable Manicure Set Review

2019-04-10T07:51:00.001-07:00

As some of you may have heard in my Evening Skin Care Routine video, I am in esthetician school and have been rather preoccupied learning about skin and practicing facials. As much as I am obsessed with skin care, it is exhausting to be a 30 year old in school for five days a week for 8 hours a day. That’s why I look forward to nights out more than ever!

I actually make the effort to dress up and put on a full face of makeup now since I’m in scrubs and bare-faced most of the week. I’m also still shedding my winter weight which means a lot of sweaters and even more dresses. Nordstrom recently started carrying one of my favorite dress brands, Reformation, so I splurged on the Butterfly Midi in Venezia — a sweet yet sophisticated mini floral print. I fell instantly in love with the vintage-inspired silhouette, particularly the décolletage-highlighting neckline.

Reformation dresses are impressive in quality and flow beautifully, but do check out brands like Ali & Jay and Bardot for more affordable options that are equally pretty and offer an impressive selection in prints, sizes, and lengths. I luckily didn’t have to hem this dress because the flounced skirt of the “midi” length stops right at my ankles, but I highly recommend starting your night out search at Nordstrom early so that you can take advantage of their alterations department!

I was hesitant to order a dress so expensive sight unseen being that it’s an online exclusive, but the fluttery feminine sleeves won me over. Reformation's dresses tends to run on the smaller side, so I sized up to a size 2 and it’s still a bit snug around the rib cage. It is, however, more comfortable than I expected since my arms have full mobility. Petite women like me, 5’0 tall and fluctuating at my heaviest around 115 or less pounds currently, are generally advised against wearing large print patterns or prints whatsoever because they can overwhelm our frames. This dress, however, has a botanical print that is whimsical without leaning bohemian, and I don’t think it is visually distracting at all!

Now I’m a traditionalist when it comes to heels because I mostly own pumps, but I really wanted to try something trendier. My friend Rachel, the Beauty Professor, raved about the Steve Madden Camille Clear Sandals, so I figured they would be a good investment for summer outings. They are so versatile and the block heel makes them both stable and comfortable! I normally wear a 5.5 in most pumps so I ordered those online first but went to #nordstrom to exchange them for a size 6. My toes are slightly longer than my big toe so sizing up gave them ample room without hanging over, and the clear straps subtly elongate the look of my legs in shorts and skirts.

One thing I’m rather gutted about since starting school is that I no longer maintain acrylics or even gel manicures, although seeing how sadly damaged my bare nails had become the first couple weeks were tough. It is a blessing in disguise; they are able to breathe and recuperate for a few months plus I found a solution to temporarily dressing up my nails without mess. Nordstrom recently started carrying Static Nails so on special nights out, I have been using press-on nails instead!

I kept my expectations low, but they really are perfect for dates and weddings or just a feminine pick-me-up. They’re offered in multiple shapes and colors and finishes which keeps things interesting! I do think the Pop-On Reusable Manicure Set in Sugar Floss Stiletto shape and length is much more wearable and manageable straight out of the box. This is all preference, but I rarely get my nails done longer than 1/4 inch past the end of my fingertip for maneuverability’s sake.

Plus, the pink-nude Sugar Floss color is so flattering, with just a hint of translucency that makes the set look convincingly natural. 24 reusable nails in twelve different sizes per hand are provided, so I’m able to create a short set and a longer set by trimming and filing.

It took me approximately 15 minutes to cut and file the black Conjure set which is sold out everywhere. The glossy black nails are edgy but after gluing them on, I laughed because they looked like Halloween claws on my petite nails. This set has nails that are not only longer, but wider as well, which is not ideal for my extra narrow nail beds. I kept the right hand’s nails extra short and super round for the ease of contact use and skin care application, but I filed the left hand’s nails to a pointy oval shape at a length I normally get my acrylics to show versatility in this post. It was quite a massive reshaping so application to end took about one hours. Removal is quick with a hot water soak, and these nails can be easily reapplied with more glue, and even painted.

Nails are sort of a given on nights outs, but I hesitate to accessorize due to my tendency to lose things. Thanks to my twin sister, however, I’ve been converted to Kendra Scott! I have been known to have a strong preference for (overpriced) designer costume jewelry but I have to say, Kendra Scott is new go-to brand for earrings. People randomly drop me compliments whenever I wear them, and I have to admit, the quality is consistently good and the price point very reasonable.

Nordstrom recently ran an online-only Kendra Scott promo so I jumped at the chance to receive a third pair for free! I chose a classic — the Tessa Stone Stud Earrings in Iridescent Drusy/Gold — to wear to school. Then I selected a fancier evening pair — Circe Drop Earrings in Lustre Glass/Gold — to match the Venezia dress, and the promotional pair is another lustre glass drop style with silver hardware but more casual. Personally I love translucent touches and have since the ‘90s so I felt it was only appropriate that the earrings matched my footwear selection! When it comes to accessories, shoes, makeup, and outfits I prefer to take a holistic cohesive approach (including matching hardware) to keep my look visually appealing especially if I plan to take photos for Nights Out.

Again I apologize for being away so long, but as school becomes more manageable, I’ll be back full time to share everything I’ve been learning. Even though my heart will always be devoted to the luxe brands I’ve used my entire life, I have been researching and testing the best in affordable skin care. I truly believe good skin should be accessible to all, so I hope you’ll allow me to help you guide through the madness that is beauty nowadays.

Last but not least I am wearing my favorite new everyday lipstick by Charlotte Tilbury called Bond Girl and my clutch is new from Senreve, called the Aria Belt/Convertible Bag. Many thanks to @Nordstrom for sponsoring this post and allowing me to share some new favorites!

HOLIDAY 2018 GIFT GUIDE | Stocking Stuffers, Affordable Kits, Men's Grooming, Luxury Splurges

2018-12-10T09:49:00.001-08:00

This post is sponsored by Nordstrom. All opinions are my own.

With the holidays in full swing, I wanted to share my gift guide a bit earlier this year. Normally I shop last minute because I’m always swamped starting Thanksgiving week with cooking cleaning and hanging on to my sanity in general, but I decided no procrastinating this year! "Adulting" is so much more fun when I can browse and compare prices online and get all my shopping done in my pjs -- no long lines or throwing elbows or circling for parking. I’m actually looking forward to wrapping up the gifts this season, but before I share what I bought and what I recommend, here are some shopping tips!

Since I’m four months away from turning 30 and my life has changed so much in the last two years, I have started thinking differently about gifting as well. I still choose with the person in mind, of course, but I almost always go the more conservative route with skin care and personal care items that actually need to be repurchased regularly. If I want to make it an extra special treat, I will choose a luxury brand for the element of surprise. I think the way I shop for gifts now shows how much more I pay attention and listen to my loved ones’ immediate and regular needs/wants.

Nordstrom has some of the best skin care sets between $50 and $200 this year, but my top pick is the Sunday Riley Face to Face Kit. This 4-piece set is priced at $49! It features useful crowd favorites that amount to a $70 value and can be split up into stocking stuffers or for gift bags. All four products have proven track records with me and my friends who are pretty picky when it comes to skin care. My favorite of the bunch lately is the C.E.O. Serum, but Good Genes reigns supreme for most.

Sunday Riley is one of my favorite brands because it appeals to all ages and all genders in the goal of achieving healthier clearer skin. Her formulations are gentle but efficacious, and these aren't tiny samples so you can get a real feel for each product. There are bigger more visually impressive sets but I think this is an all-around winner that should be at the top of your radar.

A beauty tool that I discovered recently while wandering around Nordstrom is the rather fancy and beautiful BeautyBio Rose Quartz Roller. After using it for a month now, I think it makes a fabulous gift! It might be confusing to some because the concept is an old Asian one and recently made trendy thanks to social media but it works. This roller can be used on the face neck and body to de-puff, which is why I keep mine in the fridge and sometimes freezer.

I love it in the mornings when my face is swollen, an easy and refreshing pre-makeup ritual that I look forward to. The (cold) pink stones boost lymphatic drainage and eases muscle tension in my jawline, neck, and temples. I would not skimp and go with cheaper models because it’s the weightiness and larger size and single piece stone construction of the BeautyBio tool that makes it more useful and versatile. Any smaller and I would only be able to use it on my facial contours only. I bought this Rose Quartz Roller knowing it might be a waste of money and sit in a drawer but it's actually worth the price tag and comes in a lovely box.

Now, the mister has been great about adapting an official skin care routine upon my advice, but his beard care and grooming products are something that I neglected. Lately I see this men’s category as an equivalent to women’s base makeup, and this sort of pampering will change your man’s daily routine for the better.

The Art of Shaving Sandalwood Soap with Bowl is a very traditional approach to shaving that is stylish and. I like watching him use the pure badger brush to foam up the bar into a dense creamy lather. My boyfriend is so impressed by it he never skips a shave anymore! It’s expensive but made in Italy with quality non-drying ingredients plus the keepsake wooden bowl is refillable. If you know any men that enjoy experimenting with products, try gifting the Art of Shaving Shave Oil as well.

It doesn't seem like a natural step but the oil is a game-changer in every aspect, and those are his words. It helps prevent redness and ingrown hairs and makes that dreaded five o’clock stubble much less abrasive against my sensitive skin. I chose the unscented version since I wasn't sure how he'd feel about a Shave Oil to begin with but next time I will repurchase Sandalwood to match the soap. The men in our lives deserve to be indulged and have soft smooth skin too!

Despite how important and useful skin stuff is to everyone, I still haven’t met a woman who doesn’t appreciate a touch of color to brighten her complexion whether her choice is lipstick lip gloss or liquid color. The holidays make it easy to gift useful shades and sets in super fun gift packaging at unbeatable prices, and these MAC Shiny Pretty Things Nude Mini Lipstick Kit and Charlotte Tilbury Matte Liquid Lips Duo are so wearable as well as travel-friendly!

The MAC minis come in orange bullets so they are easy to spot and can be mixed to make custom shades. I think the shades best suit medium to tan skin tones. CT’s lip products are beloved by A-list actresses everywhere, but the matte liquid formulas are great in the winter to prevent smudging or hair sticking accidents. This Charlotte Tilbury Mini Hollywood Lips Duo is universally flattering and can be blended to create a vibrant deep berry color that looks as good with a natural eye as it does a smoky eye.

Almost all women tend to have a strong preference for lip formulas though, which is why I like keeping a quality balm option on hand in case color is a non-factor. The Malin + Goetz Hand & Lip Duo comes in a festive gift wrapped box and hits the ideal price point at a respectable $20. It can be used as an ornament, stocking stuffer, and last minute gift.

I love the Almond hand cream because it isn’t too rich or too fragranced but prevents my dry hands from cracking when my boyfriend and I visit the freezing East Coast. We discovered how much we adored Malin + Goetz via our regular travels with Delta, so now we use the Hand and Body Washes too! My top pick is the uplifting zesty brightening Lime scent whereas my man prefers the more earthy Cannabis fragrance — the brand's bestselling signature.

Last but not least if you really want to treat a beauty junkie in your life, Chanel is always the right answer. During the winter months just a touch of bronzer can totally uplift the rest of your makeup and the Les Beiges Bronzing Powder shade range adds radiance without ending up muddy. I go through a lot of bronzer and believe it when I say I always come back to this in Medium or Medium/Deep because of the silky smooth texture.

Plus the compact’s ivory and black dual colored lid and styling are undeniably unique and handbag worthy making it a winning luxury gift option! If face makeup isn’t an option, then check out this incredible deal that Tom Ford released. This Eye & Lip Gift Set is a warm-toned four pan eyeshadow palette with two lipsticks that comes in a Tom Ford keepsake box for under $100. Highly recommend!!

Last but not least, here is a truly gorgeous Chanel Makeup Brush Set this holiday, but it’s $270 so that would be something to gift to the girl that has everything. It would make a wonderful travel companion since the six brushes included can complete an entire glam look. And that red brush bag is really tempting, isn’t it?

Ultimately my best advice is to be reasonable and treat everyone to the best of your abilities, but don’t neglect yourself. "Adulting" means we give a lot more than we receive so minimizing the stress and being proactive and balanced makes it truly more wonderful for all. I wish you all the happiest and healthiest of holidays xo

@nordstrom #nordstrom

ESSENTIALS | My Favorite Summer Beauty Products

2018-06-26T12:07:00.001-07:00

I don't know about you, but summer can't come fast enough! I love seasonal transitions because that's just an excuse to try more makeup and revisit oldies but goodies that I don't wear all year round. Summer is probably my most drastically different makeup routine, though, because I pull out all the neutrals and long-wearing products since I get sweaty even if my skin is dry.

Finally I can give the mattifying Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Foundation a fair trial in hot weather which has been often lately here in sunny SoCal! I, on the third attempt, found a darn near exact color match in 180 Warm last week. It is just a bit brighter than my forehead's natural tone when worn alone, but a quick dusting of bronzer fixes that! It's a very photogenic formula and it layers well, buildable to medium full coverage.

My boyfriend tagged along with me on this Sephora trip and he helped me shop for Sephora Collection #Lipstories Lipsticks since I had been seeing rave reviews on Instagram and wow, for $8 they're a steal. We think the packaging and theme for the collection is cute! The formula is phenomenal for the price, pigmented and not drying, lots of variety in finish and color range.

I went in looking for the cream in Tan Lines but I walked out with and fell in love with the matte in Brunch Date which is a perfect nude against my medium kind-of tan complexion. It's not every day that I fall in love with an affordable new product especially because my lips are so finicky so I give both shades two thumbs up!

Now Kat Von D's Tattoo Liner is a cult classic that most of us have tried at one point or another, but I've started wearing it again recently because I like being able to get super close to the lash line. I don't wear such heavy liner looks any more, so I love that the razor thin pen keeps my lines straight. The formula doesn't bleed or transfer which is super important for my oily eyelids.

Now it has taken me years to give this a try, but I just got around to testing the Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara because I needed a standard non-waterproof formula to wear during the week, something easy to wash off without pulling out my eyelashes. This formula doesn't flake off and it surprisingly held my curl pretty well. I'd definitely buy it again.

sponsored by sephora

That rounds up my essentials for this summer, what are yours??

HAUL | Dior Forever Undercover Foundation and Concealer Review + Addict Lacquer Stick, Rouge Dior Liquid, Abricot Base Coat First Impressions

2018-03-13T07:01:00.000-07:00

I have been on a makeup kick because my skin is improved to the point where makeup is fun again! Lots of you have been missing my base and complexion product reviews, so I decided to swing by Bloomingdale's and test out the revamped Dior Forever Foundation Collection. The Undercover series is a departure from previous renditions and formulas thanks to new creative director Peter Phillips, and I can confidently say I approve.

I purchased the Diorskin Forever Undercover Concealer at the end of December and have worn it pretty consistently since. It provides sheer to medium coverage and lasts a good six hours so long as there is no rubbing involved. I think it would perform well under the eyes, but I have only tested this concealer formula on my blemishes and acne scarring which isn't exactly what it is intended for.

It's not supposed to crease or settle into fine lines in case you're curious; I know the vast majority of makeup aficionados need concealer to cover under-eye darkness. I try to avoid it unless it's a special occasion. I purchased 21 Linen which is my usual shade in Dior complexion products and it was surprisingly a touch too light. It is waterproof but blends easily so I'm able to make it work.

The Diorskin Forever Undercover 24-Hour Full Coverage Foundation, on the other hand, runs a whole shade darker so I still matched to 21 Linen. Because I liked the concealer, I figured I would have similar feelings about the foundation. Indeed, I give 8 out of 10 to both products. The color for this foundation is nearly a perfect match to my skin tone currently, but I would hesitate to call this a long-wearing foundation.

Now I give both 8/10 because I wish the concealer provided more coverage like the old discontinued DiorSkin Star, and I wish this new foundation was better at preventing my T-Zone from looking oily by the end of the day. That being said, I am an oddball and prefer not to have to deal with touch-ups. The Undercover Foundation initially dries down very "dry" so-to-speak making it feel fresh and weightless even though it covers my redness well. Oh, and you get 1.3oz instead of your standard 1oz foundation bottle.

I do find that this Diorskin Forever Undercover 24-Hour Full Coverage Foundation looks best when worn at sheer to medium coverage because it looks most like real skin at that point. It is positively capable of full coverage with a pea sized amount and yes, it looks shockingly smooth without looking thick or caked on whatsoever, but full coverage is just not my style any more.

My one major issue with this new formula is that it looks oily around my nostrils after three hours and breaks down around my mouth around five to six hours. Overall though it is an excellent water-based foundation and it performs much better than average on my very dry skin, but I recommend setting with powder and prepping trouble spots with a thicker moisturizer before application.

While testing the foundation, I wore it alone, with concealer, and then finished with the Diorskin Forever and Ever Control Loose Powder which I was the most curious about to be honest. I stopped packing on powder foundation and have happily moved on to loose powder now that I'm not hiding huge breakouts.

I primarily love the mess-free mesh overlay packaging. It is sleek and practical, and the powder formula one of the lightest and most impressive that Dior has ever produced. I've tried the Nude loose powder before but it was difficult to get a shade match and I found the shimmer too prominent. The air-whipped texture of this new Forever and Ever loose powder, however, is right up my alley. Plus how much cuter could the name get?

It doesn't even feel like I'm wearing powder, although my skin does look immediately velvety soft, smooth and matte without appearing dry. The formula absorbs excess sebum and neutralizes shine so it can be used for touch-ups throughout the day as well.

I recommend using the included kabuki for that, but I start off my day by dusting it all over my face with a big fluffy powder brush with a lot of flex. The powder is super fine and nearly invisible so start off slowly because just like with the foundation, you don't need very much. Out of my entire haul, I would recommend the Diorskin Forever and Ever Control Loose Powder first and foremost. It's that good.

Then of course I couldn't leave without perusing the overwhelmingly jaw-dropping display of colorful lip offerings. I honed in on the brand new Addict Lacquer Stick in Underground which is a pink nude, which is a "My Lips but Better" rosy beige shade that glides on like butter. It feels like a luxurious lip balm which makes it tempting to reapply more often. There's an exclusive shade at Bloomingdale's called Melrose and for some reason, it is $2 less so check it out if you're looking for a pink-coral! Dior calls this new formula liquified shine and I would say that's an appropriate description. It's pigmented but shiny and soothing and hydrating and doesn't make my lips peel. Win.

The Dior makeup artist recommended that I top Underground with the Delicate Satin Rouge Dior Liquid Lipstick to create a true pink nude lip when I mentioned Underground was darker than I usually gravitate toward. It's a beautiful pairing. There are three finishes offered in this new long-wearing liquid lipstick formula, but I told her I have extremely sensitive dry lips so she said satin was my best bet. The pigmentation is rich and even, no feathering, and the sponge tip applicator is awesome! I love the tiny well that deposits the perfect amount of color so I don't constantly have to dip back into the tube. I don't know if I would purchase many more of these Rouge Dior Liquids though simply because I prefer the convenience of the Lacquer Stick.

Last but not least is the Abricot Nail Base Coat which was more of purchase driven by laziness. I have been giving my nails a break from gel manicures, but I forgot how time consuming it was to paint my nails and wait for them to dry completely. I'm really out of practice! But this Abricot base coat is unique because it's hard to find one that isn't too matte or too pink. It also hides how damaged and brittle my nails look.

I love that it makes my nails look a touch milky yet glossy and healthy and brighter! It acts as a protective barrier for my nails and lasts about five days worn alone so long as I'm not dunking my hands in chalk or working on my car. This will be my go-to nail product from here on out. It makes me — well my hands — feel clean and ladylike in under two minutes and it dries almost as quickly. One coat is all you need.

P.S. There's a free gift with any $175 Dior beauty purchase happening at Bloomingdale's right now! It's an adorable white embossed Dior logo pouch with a sleek black star chain zipper and a sample of Capture Totale DreamSkin.

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REVIEW | Tom Ford Extreme Collection Eyeshadow Swatches + Lash and Brow Tint Swatches

2018-03-10T10:07:00.001-08:00

I constantly see complaints that luxury brands don't offer enough color, but Tom Ford answered in a big way this Spring! I can't see many being dissatisfied with the twenty eyeshadow singles and tinted mascaras released. These are indeed ultra pigmented and long-wearing (no primer necessary whatsoever), but it's the mirrored mini-compact in sleek reflective chrome that is unique to Tom Ford's Extreme Collection that I adore. Most swatch as well as they apply on the eyes. I recommend using a densely packed flat brush for maximum color impact.

I only have 16 shades but my favorites are the glitter finishes anyway and that's what I recommend because you can layer with any eyeshadow in your stash! Some of the shades, particularly the blues and purples, are reminiscent of previous releases from quads and palettes but occasionally, repeats in single format are worth splurging on. I absolutely love love love the glitters!

The textures are quite smooth, even for glitters which I normally apply with a clean fingertip. The foil finishes are very vibrant, even the TFx4 shade which I always blend with a matte brown and matte orange to keep it wearable for daytime. These eyeshadow might be intimidatingly bright but they are so easy to work with!

TOM FORD EXTREME GLITTER FINISH

TFx17 is a deep turquoise glitter

TFx16 is a lavender glitter

TFx15 is a pink red glitter

TFx20 is a gold glitter

TFx19 is a slate blue silver glitter

TOM FORD EXTREME FOIL FINISH

TFx11 is an emerald green

TFx9 is an indigo with a purple duochrome

TFx8 is a beautiful teal

TFx7 is a rich royal purple

TFx6 is a cool violet

TFx3 is a bright pink

TFx10 is a charcoal black

TFx14 is a golden citron

TFx1 is a silvery grey

TFx4 is a coppery orange

TFx13 is a pink/lavender duochrome

Missing:

TFx5 is a very pretty red, which is quite trendy for eyeshadow right now! TFx12 is a burgundy berry and TFx2 is fairly traditional gold. TFx18 is a military green glitter that I may really need in the fall season.

The new Extreme Lash and Brow Tints are pretty interesting, although not a must-have in my book. No smudging though! My favorite is TFx24 because it is the most wearable. This copper bronze shade is the perfect "colorful" shade to wear year-round and it catches light beautifully. TFx22 has a slightly pink duochrome as seen in the swatches and TFx21 is extremely pigmented, probably the most impactful color on brown eyes. TFx23 is a gorgeous teal that I know I'm going to love wearing in the summer, the only one that made my eyes pop when I opened up the tube!

Bottom line: These Tom Ford Extreme singles are expensive eyeshadows but wow, you need at least one.

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REVIEW | Best of Chantecaille: Bio Lifting, Rose de Mai, Future Skin and more!

2018-03-02T15:42:00.000-08:00

Mother's Day is coming up ~~within a fortnight~~ edit: in two months (got the M months confused, my apologies) so I figured this would be good timing to share my favorites from Chantecaille, a luxury brand adored by daughters and mothers alike for their chic packaging and focus on botanicals and natural ingredients! I've featured their products sporadically throughout the years but I've explored a lot more of their line up recently so I wanted to share my thoughts.

My first must-have from the brand is the Future Skin Gel Foundation because it is oil-free. It doesn't cause break outs or irritate my skin or cause congestion like blackheads. Even though I am using severely drying acne topical treatments like Epiduo, Future Skin doesn't leave my skin looking parched. I love that it is water-based because it is lightweight yet manages to diminish imperfections like redness with very little product. Do try stippling instead of rubbing for best results if your complexion is sensitive.

SAND // CREAM // CAMOMILE

I currently mix Chamomile, Cream, and a tiny bit of Sand to balance out the undertones. Chamomile is yellow-based but a couple shades too fair to wear alone, and Cream is neutral but slightly more pink (the closest match if I had to pick one). Sand is another yellow-based shade but it's much darker than I expected so I just ordered Shea which is similar but lighter in color! You can adjust your final complexion color with loose/compact powder and bronzer if purchasing two foundations seems like overkill. Since Future Skin is my favorite foundation and I wear it at least a few times a week, I enjoy having multiple jars.

Now let's move on to masks! I have always preferred sheet masks but Chantecaille produces some of the most effective rinse-off formulas. My friend Dayna bought me the Jasmine and Lily Healing Mask last year while my skin was suffering in cold windy Portland and it is truly calming. I struggle with stress, redness, and inflammation so this is an indispensable cream mask and it works even better than the Healing Emulsion which I bought first. I love using this mask overnight every now and then although it performs equally well when I slather it on and let it work its magic for ten minutes before sponging off. I know when my skin is super dehydrated because my skin absorbs most of it within five! Since it is the heaviest mask in my collection, I limit my usage to once or twice a week.

Since I had major success with the Jasmine and Lily Healing Mask, I decided to indulge my curiosity and give the Hibiscus Smoothing Mask a try. They look very similar in terms of packaging, but this one is meant for re-texturizing so I have been using this once a week as well. The papaya and grapefruit extracts pair well with the glycolic acid leaving my skin feeling smoother and firmer! I leave it on for 5 to 10 minutes and sponge it off with lukewarm water depending on how recently I exfoliated that week. If you have sensitive and/or acne-prone skin as I do, give this gentle mask a try!

The packaging is not travel friendly, so I'll only pack whichever is better suited for the climate I'll be in. The Hibiscus Smoothing Mask eliminates dead skin cells so I do love it because it allows me to take a much-needed break from all the heavy duty, super intense scrubs and peels in my acne regimen. If I had to pick one to recommend though, I would start with the Jasmine and Lily Healing Mask. Both result in recharged glowing skin, but the Healing Mask can be used as an overnight treatment so I think you get more bang for your buck!

My latest Chantecaille obsession, however, is the Bio Lifting Series. I raved about the Bio Lifting Fluid moisturizer in my last YouTube video on my hormonal acne skin care routines. I recently began integrating the Bio Lifting Serum and it is a silky serum that is less expensive alternative to my Holy Grail 111SKIN. In fact I think Chantecaille's helps my skin look firmer while the 111SKIN is more reparative. This serum noticeably softened the appearance of my expression lines on my forehead after two weeks! I follow the directions and press three drops' worth with clean fingertips into the skin and pat until it is fully absorbed. It smells divine, no sticky reside, absorbs quickly. I started using the Fluid alone first but when paired with the Serum, I do find that my skin is smoother overall. If you have textural issues from scarring, this should help!

Since I discovered it, there is no other moisturizer I would rather use than the Fluid and I only wish I could afford to use this on my body too. Most oil-free formulas are not hydrating enough, but this gives my skin a healthy glow and hydration that actually lasts throughout the day. I use about three or four pumps to cover my face and neck but it absorbs within seconds. I adore the gel consistency, the pump packaging that never falters, and the formula never clogs my pores. Yes it is expensive but the Bio Lifting Fluid is one of the best moisturizers I've used in years!

And of course we cannot discuss Chantecaille or their brand heritage and dedication to roses without including the iconic Rose de Mai, a gel-cream. I love this during hot summer months because it works well under makeup, but I usually put this moisturizer on and then apply the Jasmin and Lily Healing Mask on top before heading to bed. Chantecaille actually does say Rose de Mai may be used as a moisture boost under regular cream so yes is expensive if you have extra dry skin as I do. But if you have combination or oily skin, you will love using this alone because the thinner consistency is refreshing yet balancing. It makes my skin look dewy and feel baby soft.

Now isn't this one of the prettiest skin care boxes you've ever seen? The most recent Chantecaille addition to my skin care arsenal is the fairly new Rose de Mai Eye Lift, and the sleek on-trend rose gold packaging is gorgeous yet practical. This gel-cream formula is very light and refreshing, so I recommend this more as a preventative first step for those in their twenties. I still use TATCHA's Luminous Eye Serum in the morning, but I switch off between 111SKIN and this one in the evenings. They keep my fine lines and baby crow's feet at bay brilliantly.

The pen applicator is long but it's easy to grip — place your pointer finger on top of the transparent silicone circle then your thumb directly aligned underneath and squeeze to release the product. Slide the ceramic tip from inner corner to outer corner to melt the gel-cream into the under eyes and gently reduce puffiness. Don't forget the brow bone!

Ultimately I adore Chantecaille. The older I get the more I identify with natural, so if you care about ingredients and textures, give some of my top picks a try. I also started testing the Compact Makeup in Cashew yesterday and it is so smooth, perfect for mattifying my T-Zone. The ultra-finely milled formula provides sheer coverage while concealing my blemishes, but the sponge applicator stored below the powder can build up coverage so that it appears more like a powder foundation than a pressed powder.

P.S. Take advantage of this quick sale to grab some goodies for 15% off!

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BEST OF | Supergoop! Invincible Setting Powder SPF45 Review + My Favorite Sunscreens

2018-02-26T10:58:00.001-08:00

Since discovering Supergoop! thanks to my friend Sabrina over at The Beauty Look Book, I have been experimenting with the brand's lineup and am now ready to share my favorites. As many of you know, I used PCASKIN for a few years, namely the Protecting Hydrator SPF30 which is a sunscreen moisturizer that is great for oily skin and works well under makeup.

Although I am switching things up in 2018, I have always been an avid proponent of sunscreen and reapplication of sunscreen because I use acne fighting products and enjoy chemical peels that make my skin more sensitive to UV rays and sun damage. I think Supergoop! makes some incredible products at unbeatable prices, so please take a look at what I consider to be the best offerings from the brand!

CLICK HERE to read more »

HOME | Young Living Aria Ultrasonic Diffuser Review

2018-02-23T10:19:00.000-08:00

My mother introduced me to Young Living a couple years ago. Prior to that, I had heard of the budding essential oil trend but I was mostly concerned with its role in beauty but not overall wellness. I only discovered how much I appreciated lavender when I walked in to my mom's place and noticed how I immediately felt more at ease. I shopped around for a stylish diffuser for a long time, but none struck me quite like the Aria.

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OOTD | My Favorite Silhouettes for Pear Shapes + Senreve Doctor Bag in Ice

2018-02-19T10:15:00.003-08:00

I'm not a fashion blogger and I don't aspire to be. My taste in clothing is rather on the simple side; I like blouses and long skirts and I appreciate a well tailored pant more than most people in the universe would. I pay attention to the quality of my cottons, silks, and leathers so that the pieces in my closet will stand the tests of time. It's basically the same principle I apply to beauty products: quality over quantity so always use the good stuff. But since I'm back full time, I wanted to share more of myself and I figure OOTDs are a great way to do that since lots of you request these type of posts!

I also try to dress my body type as much as possible instead of mindlessly following trends and styles, most of which I don't understand and can't relate to anyway. But sometimes I wear lululemon for two weeks straight, other times I dress like I'm a lawyer out of Suits, and every now and then I'll try something new like a cropped sweater. That's why I carry my Doctor Bag so often. Senreve makes bags that are elegant and practical without a logo plastered everywhere which means I can pair it with whatever style floats my boat that day. The Doctor has been my every day bag for the past few months because I've been on the move — a lot. The shape is straightforward with plenty of strap options and storage spots. It fits my wallet, keys, scarf, small water bottle, make up bag, a book, headphones, chargers, and even a change of clothes when they're rolled up. Plus, the slightly slouchy vibe when the zipper is undone is right up my alley.

The Senreve Doctor Bag is a lot more understated than their signature Maestra but I think it's the perfect large/x-large bag for a petite 5'0 woman like me. Currently I am a little heavier than my normal weight of 105 because I'm still shedding holiday bloat, just in case you'd like a reference. I wasn't crazy about the Ice color at first because it's a pale warm slate but it actually matches with everything except reds and oranges. I wanted Blush initially, but if I could go back in time I think I would get gravel.

Now now, I know bootcut jeans aren't in style any more but flares help immensely to balance out the shape of my muscular thighs while hiding the taller heels that I wear. I also love off the shoulder tops in order to accentuate my neck and show a touch of skin in a ladylike manner. Photos are mostly an art of illusion, so those are my little tricks for pear shaped ladies who want to take outfit photos!

My blouse was on sale at Aritzia and my pants are black denim from Paige.

My sunglasses are by Chanel and I'm wearing a lipstick called Super Cindy.

Please refer to my video below if you're interested in seeing my Doctor Bag close-up in movement!

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Shu Uemura Laque Supreme Review, Photos, Swatches

2018-02-17T08:30:00.001-08:00

Lots of you have been asking to see her again and Shu Uemura recently relaunched the Laque Supreme, so my twin sister and I reviewed it together on YouTube! We hope you enjoy her presence because she'll be making guest appearances more often this year. Trish has different makeup and skin care preferences than I do so it should be fun for beauty lovers who want to see a wider variety of brands and products on my channel. We both agree that the new Laque Supreme's applicator and long lasting formula are lovable and wearable, though, so please check out our video below!

We swatched everything live on camera, but above are labeled swatches of the Laque Supremes for your convenience. Do keep in mind that skin swatches are just for reference. Please refer to the lip swatch session, the latter half of the video, to see how they look on the lips especially for the two vampy tones on the far right. WN04 is a cooler raspberry-magenta wine, while WN05 is a warmer blackberry wine. They appear identical in the photo above but they are totally different shades when worn on the lips!

promo code RAEXSHU for 15% off orders $50+ and free shipping on all orders (U.S. + Canada)

R A E // M A K E U P W O R N

› concealer in cream

› face powder in nude beige

› brow pencil in shade 2

› bronzer in terra

› highlighter in champagne

› foundation in cream

› eyeshadow in blonde venus

› liquid eyeliner in black

› mascara (safe for extensions)

T R I S H // M A K E U P W O R N

› Brow Powder in Seal Brown

› Brow Pencil in Raven

› Eye Palette (on sale)

› Eyeliner in Midnight Brown

› Mascara Primer

› Volume Mascara

› Bronzer in Diffused Light

› Highlighter in Shade 2

› Blush in Helena

created in partnership with Shu Uemura

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BYREDO | An Introduction: Blanche, Rose of No Man's Land, La Tulipe, and More

2018-02-14T12:57:00.001-08:00

Byredo is all over social media lately, but it really piqued my interest when my friend Sabrina of The Beauty Look Book starting featuring more of her splurges last year. I had seen an older bottle of Inflorescence with the original label on my sister's vanity for years, but it is very heavy on freesias and jasmine. I was very particular in my choices and I am overjoyed by my whole order. Now that the packaging has been revamped and the fragrance line expanded, I figured it was time to share my first impressions and top picks! Spoiler: I'm impressed and want more.

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REVIEW | Skin Care Update ♡ My Top Picks from SpaceNK + Spring Beauty Edit GWP

2018-02-13T07:44:00.002-08:00

I am so thrilled to share that SpaceNK, the ultimate destination of luxury beauty products, launched their highly anticipated Spring Beauty Edit! Spend $275 and score a gift with purchase that is worth over $500 with the code SPRING18. It's a rare opportunity to discover an exclusive curation of 28 beauty breakthrough must-haves from Sunday Riley, Diptyque, Byredo and not a single foil packet which I appreciate very much.

CLICK HERE to read more »

REVEAL | What's In My Makeup Bag, Winter 2018 Edition

2018-02-12T07:15:00.000-08:00

Since I've been wearing essentially the same look all Winter, I figured I should share with you the contents of my makeup bag before Spring arrives! The same lineup has been in rotation for at least three, even four months now, which is a record setting length because I get bored of makeup easily. These are tried and true so a few of the products won't be a surprise!

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TOP 10 | Best of 2017 Skin + Hair

2018-02-08T07:00:00.000-08:00

Even though we are well into February already — yikes — I wanted to share my favorite skin and hair care from 2017 because some of these products were truly life changing. Since my skin was so problematic last year I didn't wear much makeup and experimented more with hair care and gentle skin care products. It gave me time to really appreciate the value of great basics and reevaluate what I consider holy grail material!

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MATCHING | My Valentine's Day Gifts for Him + Her

2018-02-06T09:56:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day is coming up in a week so I wanted to share my sweet little gifts to my boyfriend because we won't be able to spend the holiday together since he is away on a work trip. Yes, I know many object to this sexist consumer-driven day but I like to make the best of it and show you how I'm doing it my way!

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CHAT | New Year, New Me! Resolutions and Acne Update

2018-01-22T15:01:00.001-08:00

January 1st 2018 // November 27th 2017
TUTORIAL | HOW I COVER ACNE + REDNESS + SCARRING

Hello, everyone! I have finally started settling into 2018 and believe it or not, it look me three weeks to do so. Moving has kept me rather preoccupied lately. There are lots of changes happening for me this year, but despite how scared I feel sometimes, I can't wait to start blogging regularly again. It has taken me so much longer than I anticipated, but I have sorted most things out and back into a manageable groove.

My resolution this year is to vlog more to share more of me and my life, which is something many of you have asked for years. Quite frankly, I wasn't ready to share more about myself and open up my private life to judgment and scrutiny from strangers. Let's face it; the internet has become an intimidating place and I simply wasn't brave enough. Time and maturity have changed me for the better, though, so my insecurities never overwhelm me. I'm no longer at odds with who I am.

Although crossfit made me stronger faster and more well-rounded than ever, practicing yoga more regularly in 2017 is what changed my body, my perspective, and my mindset drastically. Sometimes I look back and I feel emotional because of how much I have grown as a human being. The last two years were a struggle for me because I was lost in so many different realms, wandering without direction and without meaningful intent. The stress started to manifest physically, with yo-yo weight gain/loss as well as hormonal acne, which hasn't gone unnoticed by my audience.

Every time I would walk by a mirror, I felt destroyed. I felt so much shame. I stopped looking into mirrors period and only looked at myself when I had to put makeup on or film. But as my dermatologist said, my body and my hormones were changing down to the DNA (every seven years) and it made a traumatic mess of my face. I quit taking pre-workout due to creatine which causes testosterone imbalances, and a combination of birth control with topical treatments like my Epiduo and chemical peels are making a huge difference.

But I am healing inside and out. My skin is so much better, my mental health is so much better, my life is so much better. I've never been so much in tune with my body and I've even made progress towards managing my anxiety. I feel more optimistic than ever. I'm still working on "real" confidence but I'm grateful to have rediscovered myself. Thanks to everyone for being patient and understanding, and I look forward to bringing you totally different types of content this year!

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TRAVEL | My Skin Care Bag, Winter Edition

2017-12-16T09:39:00.001-08:00

The cold and windy season is in full swing, although ironically and tragically, so much of Southern California is on fire right now. Although my thoughts are with all the first responders including my firefighter brother, I am escaping the smoke and traipsing off to Canada to go snowboarding! Since the high is about 30 degrees Fahrenheit there, the freezing temperatures and chilly conditions make for a great look at my winter skin care routine. Check out my travel bag after the jump!

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REVIEW | My Chemical Peel 101 Progress Report with Photos and Post-Care Tips

2017-12-01T12:03:00.004-08:00

Neutrogena post-peel care kit from my MD's office

If you follow me on Instagram, you'll have seen that I am currently healing from my chemical peel. Many of you requested information regarding what kind of peel I got, so I tried to answer all your questions and share with you some valuable tips I've learned over the years. Check out the progress photos after the jump!

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TOP 5 | Best of Concealers for Covering Acne and Scarring + SWATCHES

2017-11-30T07:47:00.000-08:00

Since my skin is currently healing from my chemical peel, which I shared on my Instagram story, here is a preview of my upcoming Acne Covering tutorial with the five concealers I will be showing in action. Again, I apologize for the delays with that video because I've had every audio and lighting issue imaginable which is why I've re-filmed it four times already! Instead of dwelling on that, however, I wanted to share why these are the best concealers for my normal/dry acne-prone skin.

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Shu Uemura x Super Mario Bros Holiday 2017 Collection Photos, Swatches, Giveaway

2017-11-16T11:51:00.001-08:00

The Shu Uemura x Super Mario Bros Holiday 2017 has been widely anticipated, and sadly, the lipsticks sold out right away! Lots of you had messaged me and asked me for reviews, but I created a tutorial instead because I've reviewed a lot of these products like the Ultime8 cleansing oil before. I did, however, want to give away one of the lipsticks since I know many of you missed out!

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Burberry Cat Eyes Liner and Full Brows Review, Tutorial

2017-10-26T19:01:00.004-07:00

Burberry released two new dual-ended products for brows and eyes this Fall, and they have quickly become essentials in my everyday routine. As many of you have seen over the years, the winged liner with strong brow combo has become my signature look, which is why Burberry's Cat Eyeliner and Full Brow Brow Tool feel as though they were made for me! I chose a soft matte red lip pairing for a glamorously dramatic edge, which I feel is more appropriate in the fall season.

The liquid pigment of both eyeliner and brow pen are easy to control and the powder ends create versatility and dimension. Although the black liner comes with a dark brown eyeshadow with gold pigment, I find that more wearable and creates structure without making the eyes look smaller. The eyeliner formula is exceptional, as dark and rich as the Tom Ford and longer lasting than the Hourglass. It does not pill and lasts all day. The brow pen is reminiscent of SUQQU's but is easier to control and is offered in the Ebony color which is the perfect blend of grey and brown. The brow powder is also phenomenal, and no brushes are required for application!

› Cat Eyeliner in Black

› Full Brows Pen in Ebony

› Lip Contour Pen in 01

› Liquid Lipstick in 41

› Medium Contour Pen

› Fresh Glow Pen

As for my base, I am wearing the following:

Highlighter in Rose Gold

Foundation in Beige

Nude Powder in Ochre

Fresh Glow Luminous Bases

Bronzer in Summer Glow

WATCH HOW I GET THE FRESH GLOW COMPLEXION

https://youtu.be/qBox8Qcrdio

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