My Weekend Ramblings

Chanel Attraction and Frisson: Le Vernis (Roses Ultimes de Chanel 2012 Makeup Collection)

2012-02-10T17:10:00.000-08:00

Chanel Le Vernis: Attraction (545) and Frisson (543)
Part of the Roses Ultimes de Chanel Makeup Collection (2012)

Griffin Remedy Daily Shampoo with Sea Buckthorn and Orange

2012-02-10T00:24:00.000-08:00

After being quite pleasantly surprised by the Griffin Remedy Restorative Conditioner, I decided to switch my shampoo to one by the same brand and picked up the Griffin Remedy Daily Shampoo (yes I know I should have picked the matching shampoo, but I don't remember why I didn't pick that up :P).

Like the conditioner, the shampoo too comes in the same dark, plastic packaging with a flip-pen cap. I don't have any problem with dispensing the shampoo, though, unlike my experience with the conditioner.

A clear, citrusy-smelling shampoo formulated with moisturizing ingredients like jojoba oil and aloe vera, this daily shampoo is just gentle enough to clean my hair without drying it out any further than it already is. I love the smell - it's not too strong or sweet - and I love that the shampoo washes off easily and doesn't leave any residue on my hair. There's nothing not to like about this shampoo - another favorite for me from Griffin Remedy :D I bought this from Whole Foods, and I don't know where else this is sold, but you can also buy directly from the Griffin Remedy website.

Griffin Remedy Daily Shampoo With Sea Buckthorn and Orange - Ingredients

Griffin Remedy Daily Shampoo with Sea Buckthorn and Orange (available here) - $7.99

5-Step Guide To A Neater Nail Polish Application

2012-02-09T13:09:00.000-08:00

Of late, I have been on a nail polish craze - blame it all on the fabulous photos I have been seeing online. Buying the latest colours is easy, though, when compared to actually getting them to look nice on my hands. I did figure out some easy steps that can make all the difference between a messy application and a decent one - and they aren't all that difficult. Try these basic steps and see the difference:

1. Moisturize. Yes, it's as simple as that! Start with clean, moisturized hands, and you can either indulge yourself with a soak in warm water and a massage or just do a quick job with a rich, fast-absorbing moisturizer. Either way, always remember to pay exta attention to the area around the nails - use a cuticle cream to get rid of any dry bits. My favorite: Lemony Flutter from Lush.

2. Use a base coat. Wipe off any extra moisturizer/cream from the nail. Apply a good base coat. Base coats help fill up any nail irregularities and provide a smooth base for the nail polish. It's also a good idea to use a base coat if you don't want your nails to get stained, especially with some of the darker colours. My pick: Essie All In One Base Coat.

On days when I am extra extra lazy, my nails are done with this step. My nails look so much neater with just a base coat on, and I don't have to bother with any more steps :D

3. Spacing. This is one step I started doing quite recently - leave a bit of gap along the sides of the nails instead of painting right up to the cuticle. This helps makes the nails look a bit longer while at the same time preventing any staining with the nail polish on the skin. I do it more for the ease of clean-up rather than any illusion of length :D

Leaving a gap between the edges means lesser cleanup later. This is one step I still have to learn to do properly, though.

4. Clean up. You can clean up the messy nail polish application with a bit of nail polish remover on a Q-tip, but a clean-up pen would be a bit more precise. My pick: Sally Hansen No More Mistakes Manicure Clean-Up Pen (it is the only one I have tried :P)

Another easy way to clean up nail polish from around the nail edges is using a brush dipped in acetone/nail polish remover. I use an angled eyeliner brush (a cheap one I got from Target) dipped in nail polish remover, and I find this awfully useful to clean up the mess I make with application on my right :D

5. Finish with a top coat. A good top coat helps your polish last longer without chipping and also gives an extra glossy effect to the nail polish. My favorite: Sally Hansen Extreme Shine Top Coat.

So those were my 5 steps to a cleaner manicure. Do you have any secret steps for a fabulous manicure - do share :)

Also read:
Makeup Essentials: Foundation
Apply Eyeshadows in 3 Easy Steps
3 Small Tools That Make a Big Makeup Difference

Roses Ultimes de Chanel Makeup Collection 2012

2012-02-09T00:56:00.000-08:00

Roses Ultimes de Chanel makeup collection - In time for an early spring comes this collection featuring delicate pastels along with the bright pinks and corals. Four shades of Le Vernis and six Levres Scintillantes Glossimer, all limited edition. With names like Tentation, Attraction, Amour, and Jalousie, these would make some awesome gifts for the someone special in your life (wink wink hint hint :D)

Image source: www.chanel.com

Products in the Roses Ultimes de Chanel Makeup Collection

Levres Scintillantes Glossimer (6 new limited edition shades): Surprise, Plaisir, Volupte, Amour, Desir, Jalousie. Cost: $29.50

Image source: www.chanel.com

Le Vernis Nail Colour (4 shades): Attraction, Frisson, Distraction, Tentation. Cost: $26. Details of the shades:

Attraction (545) - A metallic platinum
Frisson (543) - Soft pink with golden shimmer
Distraction (549) - A glossy bright coral
Tentation (541) - A glossy bright fuschia-pink

Image source: www.chanel.com

I picked up two of the nail polishes - Frisson and Attraction. Am obsessed with Chanel Le Vernis - thankfully, there aren't too many of them! As for the Levres Scintillantes glossimer, I think I will wait for some swatches to turn up online. I amn't too fond of glosses, though. Chanel makes some of the best, but it's been a while since I used the ones I have, so I doubt I would be buying any of these.

ALSO READ: Chanel Attraction and Frisson Nail Polish

The Trendy Photographer

2012-02-07T00:06:00.000-08:00

Spotted these girls somewhere along the 17-Mile Drive - loved the colours and the bling :D

Urban Decay Perversion 24/7 Glide-On Eyeliner

2012-02-03T23:53:00.000-08:00

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eyeliner in Perversion - blackest matte black eyeliner from Urban Decay now available in a full-size version. These cushiony, creamy eye pencils deliver powerful, vibrant color that slides on smooth and stays soft and creamy for blending (about 30 seconds), then dries to a long-lasting finish that won't budge.

I am obsessed with smokey eyes and black eyeliners, and I have always wanted to buy the Urban Decay eyeliner in Zero. When I finally did get ready to buy it, though, UD came out with the full-size version of the blackest black matte eyeliner (their claim) in Perversion. Blackest black? I had to get it! Like all Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On eyeliners, Perversion too is super soft and glides on like a dream. It is a matte black and truly BLACK. Being an Indian, I have seen my fair share of black eyeliners/kajals, and I have to agree this is one of the blackest I have seen, and the gentlest swipe gives a true black colour.

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eyeliner in Perversion - Swatches

The swatches took a lot of rubbing and water treatment but didn't really go beyond slight fading. The last photo I have really scrubbed and rubbed, and my skin almost turned red but the swatches refuse to go!

While the swatches are almost impossible to get rid off, on my eyes things are a little different. On my waterline, this stays ~~about 2 hours~~ about 3-4 hours and starts to fade gradually. I don't really have much complaints with that - my eyes water a lot and nothing lasts longer than that. When used to line the upper/lower lash line, though, I find that thicker lines can lead to some serious smudging. The colour never disappears, but it does transfer to the crease area. I guess the problem can be solved by ensuring that you don't apply it on too thick and using a primer, but it's just something to keep in mind. End of the day, I still need a serious makeup remover to get this thing off!

And this is me with the UD Eyeliner in Perversion

Despite the smudging, the liner stays the same black all through the day, so unless you apply it this thick, I think you should be safe and smudge-free. Setting the liner with a powder eyeshadow would help too.

Smudging/transferring issues notwithstanding, this is definitely going to be my favorite liner for a long, long time. The only other fault I could find is because the pencil is so soft, and I use it so liberally, it needs a lot of sharpening, and the pencil is rapidly decreasing in size. I so wish UD would get the price a little lower and/or make the pencil a little longer :D

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eyeliner in Perversion - Ingredients

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eyeliner in Perversion (available here) - $19. Also available at Sephora.

Avon Foot Works Marine Salt Invigorating Scrub

2012-02-03T11:56:00.000-08:00

Avon Foot Works Marine Salt Invigorating Scrub - Formulated with marine salts and algae extracts, this exfoliates rough, dry skin for energized, noticeably smoother feet with a light fresh scent.

I am pretty darn lazy when it comes to foot/hand care - I just about have enough energy to slather on some moisturizer daily, and I won't even do that if I didn't have crazy, dry skin! Needless to say, you won't find me indulging in long-drawn soaking-scrubbing routines, and my feet really aren't the prettiest around, but what can I say, I am lazy :D :D This is all very good for the winters when my feet are hidden under socks and boots, but summer is on the way and unless I want to scare little children at Payless, I better do something and fast. Avon Footworks Marine Salt Invigorating Scrub with it's promise of fresh, clean feet is a no-fuss, simple product that's just perfect for me.

The Avon Foot Works Marine Salt Invigorating Scrub is a gel-based scrub. It has these little scrubby bits suspended in a clear gel base with a yummy citrusy smell to it. While you can use it just like any other regular scrub, take some in your hands and massage it into damp feet, every once in a while I like to use it with my Avon Foot Works Foot File. Dispense a bit of the scrub onto the smoother portion of the file and do a gentle scrub in circular motions. Smoother, cleaner feet in a minute! I don't need too much of product, and as with all scrubs, a gentle pressure is all I need to get the work done. Like I said, a no-fuss, simple product that gets the job done.

Avon Foot Works Marine Salt Invigorating Scrub - Ingredients

Avon Foot Works Marine Salt Invigorating Scrub (available here) - $6.00

Avon Nailwear Pro Nail Enamel: Casablanca

2012-02-03T10:53:00.000-08:00

Avon Nailwear Pro Nail Enamel - These nail polishes from Avon claim up to 10 days of wear and high-gloss shine with a salon-quality precision brush. Formulated without formaldehyde, toluene, or phthalates. I have 3 of these colours that I got free when I bought some eyeliners ages back. Shade I am posting today is Casablanca - a shimmery plum-pink colour.

While I do like Avon a lot - one of the best wallet-friendly brands, in my opinion - these nail polishes aren't their best products. The colours are pretty and go on smooth, but the lasting power is just not there. For a products that claim 10 hours of stay, this starts chipping within a day! The brush is pretty good, though, and I got this free, so I am not complaining too much :D :D

Avon Nailwear Pro Nail Enamel (check shades and availability here) - $3 to $5

OTHER AVON PRODUCT REVIEWS:

Avon Glimmersticks Eyeliner

Avon Pro-To-Go (Sweet Brown)

Avon Foot Works Refreshing Citrus Foot Soak and Gel

Avon Glimmersticks Lipliners - Swatch/Review

Avon Simply Pretty Dew Kiss Lip Tint

Avon Ultra Colour Rich Lipstick - Deluxe Chocolate

Avon Glimmersticks Diamonds Eyeliner - Swatch/Review

Avon Pro-To-Go Lipstick (Warm Pink)

Avon Nailwear Pro Nail Enamel - Onyx Sparkle
Avon Nailwear Nail Enamel - Cozy Brown
Avon Nailwear Pro Nail Enamel - Midnight Plum
Avon Simply Pretty Mini Eyeliner (blue)

Avon French Manicute Kit (Review)
Avon Nail Enamel French Tip NOTD
Avon Step Into Sexy Eau De Parfum Spray
Avon Glimmersticks lipliner - Red Brick
Avon Ultra Color Rich Moisture Seduction lipstick - Plum Gorgeous
Avon Ultra Color Rich Mega Impact Lipstick - Kicked Up Coral
Avon Advance Techniques Damage Repair 3D Rescue Leave-In Treatment for Dry/Damaged Hair

Burt's Bees Facial Cleanser for Sensitive Skin - Natural Skin Solutions with Cotton Extract

2012-02-02T23:19:00.000-08:00

This soap-free cream cleanser is clinically proven to moisturize sensitive skin while gently cleansing away dirt, oil and make-up without over drying or causing redness. Formulated with softening cotton extract to help skin replenish its outer layer and minimize the effects of potential irritants such as harsh soaps or cleansers, it also moisturizes with Rice Extract and soothes with Aloe. Naturally gentle and skin-friendly for daily use, it’s what every sensitive product should be.

Burt's Bees Natural Skin Solutions - Soap-Free Cleanser for Sensitive Faces

Every year around winters, my skin goes cranky and decides to go the dry and flaky route, and with the heater soaking up any humidity, this problem just gets worsened. While I don't change my moisturizer, I do switch to a more creamy face wash to avoid stripping out any more moisture than I need to from my face. The Burt's Bees Facial Cleanser for Sensitive Skin, a cream cleanser with cotton extracts, aloe, and rice extracts to do a gentle clean, seemed like the perfect solution for my skin's winter woes.

Burt's Bees Facial Cleanser for Sensitive Skin - Review

This is a soap-free creamy cleanser, which means it looks and feels like a thick lotion. I use this as directed, applying the creamy cleanser with my fingers, massaging it in, and rinsing it off. The cleanser is quite gentle and does an okay job at removing my makeup, but I don't use waterproof makeup so it's not that difficult to take it off in the first place! Because of it's "moisturizing" ingredients, the cleanser leaves behind a hint of oiliness in the skin rather than washing off squeaky clean. Perhaps because of this, along with the fact that it doesn't really manage to take off every bit of makeup on my face, using this cleanser on a regular basis gives me tiny bumps on my face - the little warning bells before the big pimples turn up! To avoid breakouts, I alternate this with my favorite Olay Daily Facials Cleansing Cloths. Needless to say, this Burt's Bees cleanser is not really my favorite, and I keep it for days when I don't have much to take off from my face.

Burt's Bees Soap-Free Facial Cleanser for Sensitive Skin - Ingredients

While this isn't going to be my must-have cleanser any time soon (or ever I guess), this might work just fine for the dry-normal skin types, especially during the winters. As for me, for a creamy cleanser that leaves my skin clean without drying it out, I would pick the Burt's Bees Soap Bark and Chamomile Deep Cleansing Cream instead.

Burt's Bees Soap-Free Facial Cleanser for Sensitive Skin (available here) - $10.00

L'Oreal Infallible Le Rouge Lipstick - Everlasting Plum

2012-02-02T21:54:00.000-08:00

L'Oreal Infallible Le Rouge Lipsticks - Revolutionary innovative formula from L'Oreal that combines bold luscious colour that lasts up to 10 hours and a creamy conditioning base with hydrating vitamin E.

Having tried (and loved) the L'Oreal Color Riche lipsticks, I picked the L'Oreal Infallible Le Rouge lipstick in Everlasting Plum hoping my luck with L'Oreal continues. These come packaged in a transparent plastic and silver packaging which in all honesty I really did not like - at the risk of sounding too snobbish, I felt it looked a bit cheap. The colours looked just too tempting, though, and I caved in and decided to buy one and try.

L'Oreal Paris Infallible Le Rouge Lipstick in Everlasting Plum - Review

The shade Everlasting Plum is a dark plum lipstick with just a hint of brown to it. While I don't really like browns in lipsticks, a hint of it mixed with the plum takes this shade from a scary plum to a very wearable yet bold plum. The lipstick is an almost matte finish, and the colour payoff is truly amazing. As for the staying power, it stays on and on right through a meal and almost until the end of the day. Sure, the colour reduces in intensity towards the end of the day, but it never disappears completely. It is not a moisturizing lipstick, but amazingly (unlike my experience with any other matte lip product), this does not dry out my lips at all.

L'Oreal Infallible Le Rouge Lipstick in Everlasting Plum - Swatch

And that's me wearing the L'Oreal Infallible Le Rouge Lipstick in Everlasting Plum

I am in LOVE with this lipstick - an easy to wear darker colour that doesn't dry out my lips and stays put the whole day! As for the packaging, well, I learned my lesson of not judging a lipstick by it's casing. I would probably buy this one even if L'Oreal decided to sell it wrapped up in banana leaves :D :D

L'Oreal Infallible Le Rouge Lipstick in Everlasting Plum (more shades/availability here) - Cost approx. $10

Griffin Remedy Restorative Conditioner with Shea Butter and Macadamia Nut Oil

2012-01-23T00:59:00.000-08:00

While most of the products I buy and review are quite well known, every once in a while I come across some unassuming brands that don't seem to be so well known in the blogosphere but nevertheless make some fabulous products. One such brand is Griffin Remedy, a discovery of mine while browsing through the aisles at Whole Foods. The first product I tried from their range - Griffin Remedy Restorative Conditioner with Shea Butter and Macadamia Nut Oil.

My hair is quite dry and frizz-prone, and I also colour my hair, which I guess does its part to keep the damage going. Always on the lookout for the next best conditioner, I like to pick up products with natural ingredients that I feel would actually provide some benefit to my hair rather than just gloss over the damage and give a smooth appearance. When I saw shea butter, coconut oil, macadamia nut oils listed as ingredients, I just had to pick up a bottle of the Griffin Remedy conditioner.

The packaging is a simple, sturdy bottle with a flip-open cap. The conditioner is a thick white creamy product that is a little difficult to get out of this bottle, so I usually stand it upside down. That apart, I love everything else about this conditioner.

Griffin Remedy Restorative Conditioner with Shea Butter and Macadamia Nut Oil - Review

This thick creamy conditioner smells quite herbal - am assuming it's the lavender essential oil that gives it this smell, and it's nothing like the artifical sweet lavender smells. The conditioner itself is thick and creamy, and I use a generous dollop or two for my medium length hair. Leave it on for about 5 minutes and rinse off. Washing off is easy with no slippery residue left behind, and my hair feels instantly softer. I leave my hair to dry on it's own, and I find it much more healthy looking and less frizz-prone ever since I started using this conditioner. I have tried pricier conditioners that did nothing for my hair, so if this relatively inexpensive conditioner does a great job in terms of ingredients and effectiveness, it's definitely a winner! If your hair is normal or oily, though, you might not need this intensive a conditioner and are perhaps better off with one of the lighter conditioners from this brand (and I haven't tried those so I don't know anything about them).

Griffin Remedy Restorative Conditioner with Shea Butter and Macadamia Nut Oil - Ingredients

Griffin Remedy Restorative Conditioner with Shea Butter and Macadamia Nut Oil (available here) - Cost $7.99

Encouraged by my experience with the conditioner, I am currently trying out the Griffin Remedy Daily Shampoo with Seabuck Thorn and Orange - will review that in a bit, but I am loving it so far :D Have you tried any products from this brand? Do let me know if you have a favorite.

Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush (Plum Wine)

2012-01-22T23:41:00.000-08:00

Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush - Revolutionary gel formula with a new bouncy texture, lightweight like a powder yet melts seamlessly into the skin like a cream. Natural sheer wash of colour that is buildable for greater intensity.

Maybelline released a couple of new products recently, and the Dream Bouncy Blush is one of them. Never having tried the old Maybelline mousse/matte blushes, I decided to pick one of these new Bouncy blushes when I saw them sitting all pretty at CVS. Available in a wide range of shades, I initially wanted to pick up Hot Tamale, a coral pink colour, but finally settled on Plum Wine - a deeper plum colour which I thought would show up better on my darker skin.

Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush in Plum Wine - Review

The blush packaging looks like a large eyeshadow pan with about 5 g of product. I like the compact packaging and the smaller sizes; I have not used up even a single makeup product to date, and lesser quantity just mean less wastage for me. The blush has a soft, bouncy feel to it - almost like a dense sponge cake (that's the best I could think up of :P :P).

Applying the Maybelline Dream Bouncy blush is like a combination of a cream blush and a powder - I pick it up with my fingers and just dab on like I would do with any cream blush, but the finish I get is more matte and like a powder. I amn't the best at applying matte blushes, and I do find this a bit difficult to blend. I picked up the darkest shade of the lot hoping it would show up better on my darker skin tone, but the colour didn't show up as dark at it did in the pan. It looks like a darker plum-rose in the pan, but on my skin it shows up a lot lighter. The colour can be layered to be more intense, but I am okay with the more subtle colour.

So..my experience with the Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush in Plum Wine?

I don't find it the easiest colour to blend (though that could be mostly my fault) and the colour doesn't show up that great on me, but it does give a very natural effect when I do get everything right, and I like the little sheen it gives to my cheeks without the dreaded shimmers. The matte finish means it's a great product for the oilier skin types, and while I didn't have a problem with the staying power, I wouldn't know for sure how it would fare in warmer times.

Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush in Plum Wine (available here) - Cost $7.99

OTHER MAYBELLINE PRODUCT REVIEWS:
Maybelline Eyestudio Lasting Drama Gel Liner - Charcoal/Charbon
Maybelline Colour Sensational Lipstick - My Mahogany
Maybelline Eyestudio Lasting Drama Gel Liner - Eggplant/Aubergine
Maybelline Eyestudio Lasting Drama Gel Liner - Blackest Black
Maybelline Eyestudio Lating Drama Gel Liner - Sapphire
Maybelline Gel Eyeliner - Forest

Korres Body Butter (Guava)

2012-01-22T01:52:00.000-08:00

Korres Body Butter (Guava) - Rich, luxurious cream enriched with shea butter to soften, smooth, and nourish the skin with an invigorating blend of tropical fruits.

The Greek skincare brand Korres is quite popular for its natural approach to nourished and healthy skin, and while I haven't gotten around to trying anything much from this brand, I did manage to pick up a small tube of the Korres Guava Body Butter. Korres claims to use natural, herbal ingredients and avoid harsh chemicals, and for someone with sensitive skin like mine, that is a big plus point.

KORRES GUAVA BODY BUTTER - REVIEW

The body butter has a mild, pleasant smell and is almost like a thick lotion in its consistency. Easy to spread and quite fast absorbing, I find this a perfect daytime lotion for the normal-skinned person. I was expecting this to be a lot more heavy duty, but it is a bit light for my dry skin. I do find the packaging very convenient to carry around, though, and if you are the kinds who doesn't wants an unscented/mildly scented cream for the office, this would be perfect.

Overall, a tad disappointing for a body butter but would be just right for a daytime lotion, especially if you want something that absorbs quickly and doesn't clash with your perfume.

KORRES GUAVA BODY BUTTER - INGREDIENTS

Korres Guava Body Butter (available here) - Cost $29/7.5 fl. oz. I got mine as part of a set at Sephora - much cheaper at about $10 on sale :D

Urban Decay Rockstar 24/7 Glide-On Eyeliner Pencil and a Dupe

2012-01-21T22:34:00.000-08:00

Urban Decay Rockstar Glide-On Eyeliner - Creaminess from vitamin E, jojoba oil, cottonseed oil, in a waterproof formula that dries down in about 30 seconds for a longlasting finish that will not budge.

Urban Decay Glide-On Eyeliner Pencil - Rockstar - is a darkened plum purple colour. A perfect alternative to the black liner but with a little more depth than a brown - this is my favorite dark liner. True to the hype associated with the Urban Decay Glide-On Eyeliners, this is a creamy pencil that glides on smoothly and stays on and on. It doesn't spread, smear, or fade, and the colour stays good for the whole day - I haven't tried this eyeliner in summer, so will update if there is any change.

URBAN DECAY GLIDE-ON EYELINER PENCIL IN ROCKSTAR - SWATCHES

Urban Decay Rockstar Glide-On Eyeliner Pencil (available here) - Cost $18

URBAN DECAY ROCKSTAR VS. MAYBELLINE GEL LINER IN AUBERGINE

While not really an exact dupe, I find the Maybelline gel liner in Aubergine to be quite similar to the Urban Decay Rockstar - just missing a bit of the plum/brown tone to it, though. The Maybelline liner is just as long lasting, in fact lasts longer than the Urban Decay liner.

L: Urban Decay Glide-On Eyeliner Pencil Rockstar
R: Maybelline Gel Liner in Aubergine

UD Rockstar scores in terms of being easier to use than the gel liner - no need for the extra brush - but that apart, I cannot pick a favorite among these two! What about you - do you have a favorite purple/plum eyeliner?

Similar Posts:
Urban Decay Glide-On Eyeliner - Oilslick
Urban Decay Glide-On Eyeliner Pencils - Swatches
Urban Decay Mariposa Eyeshadow Palette - Sephora Exclusive (swatches)
Urban Decay 15-Year Anniversary Eyeshadow Palette (Swatches Only)
Urban Decay Naked Palette (Swatches Only)
Urban Decay Book of Shadows Vol. 4 (Swatches Only)
Urban Decay 24/7 Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner (Swatches Only)

3 Small Makeup Brushes/Tools That Make a Big Difference!

2012-01-14T02:01:00.000-08:00

Everyone talks about the perfect red lipstick and the extra-volume mascara, the flawless finish foundation and that darkest black eyeliner, but behind all the colour and glamour of makeup - if you look right at the basics - you will find the brushes and the tools that help bring out the best in every product. While I love a good stippling brush or even an egg-shaped sponge, this list is a bit different. These are 3 makeup tools/accessories that people tend to overlook (okay, well I did until recently) but make a big difference in their own small ways :)

Err..yes...that's a lash comb, an eyelash curler, and the shocking pink one - that's a lip brush.

#1. THE LASH COMB - A must-have for a clump-free application of mascara. Yes, I know good mascaras should not be clumping, and of course, I have heard that it's all about the technique, but I haven't yet mastered the "technique," and I have tried my fair share of good mascaras, but a clumsy oaf like me invariably gets clumps :D Easy solution: Use the lash comb to get instantly separated lashes and a much neater and natural effect. Another tip I picked up from a YT video by the gossmakeupartist - brush the mascara on to a clean lash comb and use that to comb through the lashes - gives a natural effect without the clumps.

Sonia Kashuk Lash and Brow Groomer
This one has plastic teeth. Have read that metal ones are better, but am just too scared of them :|

# 2. THE EYELASH CURLER - Curling lashes is an instant way to make your eyes look wider, brighter, and awake. From the much sought-after Shu to the most basic ELF, you can find one at any budget - just ensure the curler arch fits the shape of your eyes. To get the perfect curl, hold the lash curler as close to the base of your lashes as possible and curl. Then, move the curler a little way up the lashes and curl again. A step-by-step curl looks more natural than the crimp right at the base technique, at least in my opinion.

Chanel eyelash curler

#3. THE LIP BRUSH - the SA at my favorite makeup counter made me realize what a difference a lip brush can make to the finish of a lipstick. Even the driest lipsticks go on smoother for a more controlled and sophisticated application of colour when applied with a lip brush. An absolute essential, especially, if you have fine lines on your lips or are just generally prone to dry lips.

Sephora Lip Brush

Am sure there are many more brushes and accessories that make everyday makeup just a little more special - these were my 3 must-haves - what's yours?

SIMILAR POSTS:
How to apply eyeshadows in 3 easy steps
Makeup Essentials: Foundations
How-To: Smokey Gold-Blue EOTD

Benefit Cosmetics Primer: Stay Don't Stray for Concealers and Eyeshadows

2012-01-13T23:53:00.000-08:00

Benefit Stay Don't Stray Primer for Concealers and Eyeshadows - Dual-action primer that works 360 degrees around the eyes to make concealers and eyeshadows stay put. Concealers don't crease, eyeshadows stay vibrant. Comes in a neutral nude shade that is universally flattering! Sodium Hyaluronate hydrates and fills in fine lines. Vitamins C and E help fight signs of aging.

I got this Benefit Cosmetics Stay Don't Stray Primer as part of a set - Benefit One Prime Day - so the packaging is a bit different from the original/full-size bottle that comes with a pump dispenser. Am sure the airtight pump packaging does help keep the product clean, but I am quite happy with the wand-tube kind of packaging that I have. That apart, the product is all the same.

BENEFIT COSMETICS STAY DON'T STRAY PRIMER - REVIEW

The Benefit Stay Don't Stray Primer is a neutral-beige coloured product, almost like a thin liquid foundation in it's consistency. Dabbing it on is supereasy with the wand (am sure it's just as easy to do with the regular packaging - it's dab dab..how difficult can it be??), and it dries down pretty quickly.

Benefit Cosmetics Stay Don't Stray Primer - Swatch

I haven't tried it with concealers, but the Benefit Stay Don't Stray primer does a fabulous job at bringing out the colours in eyeshadows and also at ensuring that the shadows...err...stay and don't stray :D :D No creasing, no disappearing, no oily lids. You only need a small amount, and even this tiny bottle would last me a long while.

Benefit Cosmetics Stay Don't Stray Primer - Eyeshadow with and without primer.

A definite winner for me, Benefit Stay Don't Stray Primer is available here and costs $26 for the regular full-size bottle (or pick up a smaller size as part of one of the many sets at Sephora).

BENEFIT COSMETICS STAY DON'T STRAY PRIMER - INGREDIENTS

OTHER BENEFIT PRODUCT REVIEWS:
Benefit Cosmetics Feelin' Cheeky! Minis (Sephora Exclusive)
Benefit Cosmetics Benetint Lip and Cheek Stain
Benefit Cosmetics Posietint Lip and Cheek Stain
Benefit One Prime Day Mini Set (Sephora Exclusive)
Benefit Porefessional Pro Balm
Benefit Cosmetics 'That Gal' Brightening Face Primer

Avon Advance Techniques Damage Repair 3D Rescue Leave-In Treatment for Dry/Damaged Hair

2012-01-12T23:58:00.000-08:00

Avon Advance Techniques Damage Repair 3D Rescue Leave-In Treatment for Dry/Damaged Hair - claims to repair hair damaged by chemicals, heat, or just harsh combing or brushing.

I have naturally frizz-prone hair, and the problem gets compounded since I colour my hair, which means I am always willing to try any product that claims to help reverse or repair hair damage. The Avon Advance Techniques Damage Repair 3D Rescue Leave-In Treatment for Dry/Damaged Hair is one such product.

Avon Advance Techniques Damage Repair 3D Rescue Leave-In Treatment for Dry/Damaged Hair - Review

This leave-in damage repair product is a gel-like product - easy to dispense through the convenient nozzle. A drop or two is sufficient for my hair; just scrunch it into damp or dry hair (I prefer the damper version).

Results: My hair seems a little more settled whenever I use this, doesn't appear so frizz prone or dry. I don't find this a miracle cure for dryness or damage, though. I firmly believe haircare is more than just one product, and at least for my dry/damaged hair, repair starts with a good shampoo and conditioner and, of course, regular deep conditioning. I won't replace all that with the Avon Advance Techniques Damage Repair 3D Rescue Leave-In Treatment for Dry/Damaged Hair, but it sure is a good product to try out if all you want is something to make your hair appear a bit less dry without too much buildup.

Avon Advance Techniques Damage Repair 3D Rescue Leave-In Treatment for Dry/Damaged Hair - Ingredients

WATER/EAU, CYCLOPENTASILOXANE, DIMETHICONE, POLYQUATERNIUM-37, PANTHENOL, PANTHENYL ETHYL ETHER, HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL/SEBACIC ACID COPOLYMER, WHEAT AMINO ACIDS, PHYTANTRIOL, TOCOPHERYL ACETATE, VINYL DIMETHICONE/LAURYL DIMETHICONE CROSSPOLYMER, PROPYLENE GLYCOL DICAPRYLATE/DICAPRATE, PARFUM/FRAGRANCE, PHENOXYETHANOL, HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL, PPG-1 TRIDECETH-6, QUATERNIUM-80, DISODIUM EDTA.

Avon Advance Techniques Damage Repair 3D Rescue Leave-In Treatment for Dry/Damaged Hair (available here) - $12

Product provided by brand.

OTHER AVON PRODUCT REVIEWS:

Avon Glimmersticks lipliner - Red Brick
Avon Ultra Color Rich Moisture Seduction lipstick - Plum Gorgeous
Avon Ultra Color Rich Mega Impact Lipstick - Kicked Up Coral
Avon French Manicute Kit (Review)
Avon Nail Enamel French Tip NOTD
Avon Step Into Sexy Eau De Parfum Spray

Avon Foot Works Refreshing Citrus Foot Soak and Gel

MAC 187 Duo Fibre (Stippling) Brush

2012-01-12T21:55:00.000-08:00

MAC 187 Duo Fibre (Stippling) Brush - A large full circular brush used for lightweight application and blending of face powder or pigments. Use to create soft layers or add textures. Made from a soft blend of goat and synthetic fibres.

The MAC 187 Duo Fibre brush is perhaps the best known of the MAC brushes - and I am sure its atrocious $42 plus price tag adds to the curiosity - but it sure does seem to be quite sort after. Having read so much about how this is the "perfect brush to apply foundation," I finally succumbed to the temptation and picked this up some time back - in fact, this and the MAC brush cleanser were my very first MAC products :D

MAC 187 - Duo Fibre - What is it?

The MAC 187 is a duo-fibre brush - contains two kinds of fibres - the synthetic white fibres and natural goat hair which are the black fibres. The black natural fibres are shorter and provide volume/density to the brush. The white synthetic fibres are what should be used to pick up the product.

How to Use the MAC 187 Duo Fibre (Stippling) Brush

There must be as many ways to use this brush as there are people who use it, but here's how I use it:

To apply foundation, I use this as a stippling brush. Stippling means applying product in a dotting fashion until complete coverage is achieved. I do not blend or buff the product, just stipple it on and get an even, light coverage.
To apply blushes. Since it picks up the slightest amount of product, I find this gives me the most natural-looking and controlled blush application. Also does a fabulous job of blending the product.

I take a bit of the product on the back of my hand and pick it up on to the brush - no pouring the foundation on to the brush and squishing it into the fibres, please!!! Then dot-dot/stipple to apply.

Things to keep in mind while using the MAC 187

The first few times I tried using this brush, I used it like any other regular brush - used buffing and sweeping motions to apply the foundation. I was quite shocked at how bad of an application I was getting, and the brush did feel overall quite flimsy! Thankfully, it was Google to the rescue, and I found these two very helpful videos by Enkore on how to use the MAC 187/stippling brush. If you are interested in buying the MAC 187 and/or have one and can't seem to figure out how to use it, do check these out (have added links to the videos):

Needless to say, sweeping on foundation with this brush really is the wrong way to use this brush, at least in my experience. Do check the videos and give the stippling technique a try - it's well worth the effort.

The MAC 187 is best used to give a light, even airbrushed kind of coverage. You can, of course, build up on the lighter coverage if you want to. I also find that the stippling effect works best with creamier liquid foundations and not so much with the matte finish ones and/or cream foundations. It also does a better job at giving an even coverage on my, otherwise, quite uneven skin :D As for blushes, both powder and cream blushes are a dream to apply with this brush. I have used this brush a lot of times and washed it just as many times, and it hasn't shed a single hair or lost its softness. Overall, a fabulous buy as long as you don't mind learning how to use this properly.

MAC 187 Duo-Fibre Stippling Brush (available here) - $42

Also Read: Beautyblender Makeup Sponge
Ecotools Recycled Retractable Kabuki Brush
Ecotools 6-piece eye brushes kit
TBS Mini/Travel brush kit

NARS Spring 2012 Makeup Collection (Info)

2012-01-09T15:39:00.000-08:00

NARS Spring 2012 Collection - a study in contrasts: Bold color, sophisticated shimmer. Eyes glisten in muted tones of lavender and pink, or shimmer in bronze shades accented with rich navy. Cheeks are flushed with candy pink. Lips gleam in topaz or pop with berry. Metallic violet nails add the finishing touch to a collection that’s bright, strong and iconic.

PRODUCTS INCLUDED IN THE NARS SPRING 2012 COLLECTION

Douce France trio eyeshadow - Three gorgeous pink shades - shimmery icy pink, shimmery rose-petal pink and matte deep rose - that can be mixed to create a range of looks, from delicate and innocent to bold and sophisticated. Wear each alone or use one as a base, another to highlight and the third as a liner or contour.

Lhasa single eyeshadow - shimmery lavender-gray eyeshadow that lends lids a luminous look.

Paramaribo Duo Eyeshadow - metallic shades of brass and bronze. Wear each solo, or use one as a base and the other as an accent or highlight for a richly burnished effect.

Gaiety blush - Bright candy-pink Blush that’s as cheerful as the state of joyful exuberance for which it’s named.

Mexican Rose Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil - Hot-pink Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil leaves lips soft and gorgeously glossy thanks to moisture-rich hyaluronic spheres, which make pouts appear plumper.

Valparaiso Pure Matte Lipstick - rich raspberry lipstick delivers long-wearing color with a comfortable finish.

Bilbao lipstick - Smooth and super-conditioning, shimmering topaz colour.

Dark Rite Soft Touch Shadow Pencil - A navy blue that complements any warm-weather look. Use the creamy, long-wearing formula alone, as a base for layering with powder shadow, or to line and sculpt the eye.

Diamond Life Nail Polish - metallic violet.

Availability: Launching January 13, 2012, at www.narscosmetics.com. Will update with swatches in a bit.

NARS Swatches:
NARS Larger Than Life Long-Wear Eyeliners
NARS Holiday 2011 Collection
NARS Larger Than Life Lip Gloss

YSL Spring 2012 Makeup (Swatches)

2012-01-08T22:43:00.000-08:00

YSL Spring 2012 makeup collection rolled out some time back, and I got some swatches to share. Not surprisingly for spring/summer season, the colour palette has a lot of pastels and pinks and sheer blushes.

Image source: www.yslbeautyus.com

YSL Rouge Volupte Perle Lipsticks ($34) - New limited edition shades from the Spring Look Collection 2012 - 113 Irridescent Burgandy, 114 Sparkling Fuschia, 115 Shimmering Coral, and 116 Milky Pink

YSL Rouge Volupte Perle Swatches (L to R)
113 Irridescent Burgandy
114 Sparkling Fuschia
115 Shimmering Coral
116 Milky Pink

Voile de Blush (Gel blush) - water-based gel blush that provides a sheer wash of color to subtly tint your cheeks and a glowing, natural look, perfect for Spring time.

Voile de blush (gel blush $30) - the colours were a little too sheer to show up on my darker skin, so I have added a messier smashed up version of the blushes. They look just like lip glosses, and for a second I really thought that's what they were!
Swatches (L to R): 1 Carmine Veil
2 Coral Veil
3 Pink Veil

Golden Gloss (Shimmering Lip Gloss) - New shades for Spring: 49 Golden Violet and 50 Golden Peach

YSL Golden Gloss (Shimmering lipgloss $30 ) Swatches:
Top - 50 Golden Peach
Bottom - 49 Golden Violet

YSL La Laque (nail polish) - Limited edition Manicure Couture duos in two mouth watering color combinations: Bubble Gum Pink and Tangerine Orange (8), Mint Green and Chocolately Brown (7).

YSL La Laque ($30) nail polish duos Swatches (L to R)
Chocolately Brown and Mint Green (7)
Tangerine Orange and Bubble Gum Pink (8)

MORE YSL:

YSL Rouge Volupte - Luscious Pink

A YSL Makeover Experience

YSL Faux Cils - Noir Radical

YSL Rouge Volupte Lipstick (Swatches Only)

Woven, Braided, Platformed: The Prada Wedges

2012-01-08T19:16:00.000-08:00

I know January doesn't fall into a summer month, but tell that to folks at Prada! These woven and braided platform wedges from Prada fit right in with the fashion trends for Spring/Summer 2012. Available now at Nordstrom.

Prada Braided Wedge Sandals - $460
Prada Woven Wedge Platform Sandal - $950
(The shoes in the background are the Prada bow ballerinas - $390)

IF YOU LOVE SHOES:

Yves Poppy Print Wedge and Riviera Sandal
Yves Saint Laurent Palais Pump
The Girl with the Red Boots
Miss Dior Peep Toe Pump

Colours, Contrasts, and Power Outages

2012-01-06T23:58:00.000-08:00

I have had a busy, busy week, and just when I thought things couldn't get more overwhelming, I had a back-to-India experience this afternoon - a power outage :P :P It took me a while to figure out why the time display on the oven turned off, but once I realized I wasn't getting any work done inside the house, I decided to take a stroll outside. Who knew a sunny day with bright blue skies could be so cold, but I did get to play around with my camera :D

SNAPSHOT BLOGGING - PREVIOUS PHOTO

Josie Maran Argan Color Stick - Petal Pink

2012-01-06T23:19:00.000-08:00

Josie Maran Argan Color Stick - A full size argan oil-infused, sheer color stick that grants a lasting, natural flush to cheeks and lips. This dual-purpose lip and cheek color provides flattering, subtle color while treating the skin with Josie Maran's signature argan oil. To be used as a blush or lip color, the color stick leaves a natural and long-lasting dewy finish that complements any skintone while repairing and replenishing the skin.

I picked up the Josie Maran Argan Color Stick in Petal Pink more than a month back (yes, all you observant souls and Sephora faithfuls - it was during the Black Friday sale). Josie Maran is among the many brands I read so much about but never get around to trying, and I doubt if I would have ever picked up the color stick if not for the sale - always wanted to try their argan oil first. Oh well..there's always a next time :D

A creamy product meant to be used as a cheek and/or lip color, the Josie Maran Argan Color stick comes in a handy lipstick-like twist-up packaging. The case is a fingerprint magnet, but I love the glossy finish to it. The product itself is a chubby, creamy stick, and I guess it will be a while before I get to the bottom of this tube. It has a herbal smell to it - seems to me like a combination of rosemary and eucalyptus - okay, I am not really sure what the smell is, but it is definitely quite mild, and unless you have an ubersensitive nose and are trying to smell it all the time, you would probably not even notice it.

The shade Petal Pink is a neutral pinkish-coral color (more pink than coral) that would look great on most skin tones. I am darker, and the color obviously doesn't show up that well on my skin, but it gives a natural flush and a dewy look. I think there is a hint of frost/shimmer in this, but the particles are not really visible, and it just gives a pretty highlighting effect. To use, I either dab the stick right on to my cheeks and blend with my fingers or dab some on to my fingers and then blend.

Josie Maran Argan Color Stick - Petal Pink (heavy swatch on darker skin)

What I love about the Josie Maran Argan Color Stick

Easy to use without worrying about clown cheeks. Packaging is perfect for travel or for carrying around in the bag.
Doesn't cause any skin irritation or breakouts on my oily-combination skin type and lasts almost the entire day (I haven't tried this in the summers, though). I haven't used it on my lips so can't comment on that.
Unlike so many other brands that claim "natural ingredients" that would need a magnifying glass to find on the ingredients list, the Josie Maran Argan Color stick actually lists argan oil right on top of the list. Plus it's formulated without parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, phthalates, GMOs, or triclosan.

Josie Maran Argan Color Stick - Ingredients

Argan oil is rich in Vitamin E and essential fatty acids - has antiaging properties, is known to help and prevent dehydration, inflammation, hyperpigmentation, and sebum production.

Josie Maran Argan Color Stick in Petal Pink (available at Sephora) - Cost $22

Chanel Great Copper Rouge Hydrabase Lipstick

2012-01-05T23:12:00.000-08:00

This is one from the makeup files - a lipstick from the time when I didn't have a blog. One of my oldest Chanel lipsticks, Great Copper is a rustish brown lipstick from the now discontinued Hydrabase range. The texture falls somewhere between a matte and a cream finish, and it has a hint of shimmer in it. Moisturizing, though, not as much as the Rouge Coco lipstick that Chanel replaced them with.

A brownish red on my lips, Chanel Great Copper is a colour that works better for me in the winters, which is why it turned up on the blog now :D :D So do you have an old makeup product that you started using again now?

A Chanel Peek-a-Boo: Rouge Allure - Captive

Chanel Rouge Coco - Venise - Review/Swatch

Chanel Ombre D'Eau Fluid Iridescent Eyeshadow - Splash

Sublime de Chanel mascara - Deep Black (10)Chanel No. 5 (EDT)
Chanel Joues Contraste Blush - In Love (55)
Chanel Joues Contraste Blush - Rose Petale (99)
Recourbe Cils De Chanel - Precision Eyelash Curler
Chanel Inimitable Intense Sophistique versus Inimitable (Regular) Mascara
Chanel Perfection Lumiere Foundation
Chanel Joues Contraste Blush - Rouge
Chanel Le Vernis - June
Chanel Harmonie De Printemps Spring 2012 Makeup Swatches

Pacifica Color Quench Natural Moisture Lip Tint in Blood Orange

2012-01-05T21:06:00.000-08:00

Pacifica Color Quench Natural Moisture Lip Tint in Blood Orange - A lip treatment plus color for spot-on, sheer color - big hydration to feed thirsty lips and sheer, sexy color for the prettiest, most kissable mouth ever. This lip tint provides major moisture, adds sheer, universally gorgeous color, and imparts a hint of sophisticated flavor. It thoroughly soothes and satisfies lips with avocado and coconut oils, both superfoods rich in amazing essential fatty acids. Nourishing and natural, this fool-proof product goes anywhere for touches up anytime, no mirror needed.

The Pacifica Color Quench Natural Moisture Lip Tint in Blood Orange is my latest attempt at breaking the dry lips curse that the winter air brings with it. Instead of mineral oils and chemicals, the lip balm provides moisturization with the goodness of plant oils, essential oils, and vitamin E. While that alone is a big plus point, what I love the most is the fresh citrusy smell and flavor. There is a hint of colour - a coral pink - but it's very light, just a tint - and it doesn't really show up on my pigmented lips.

Pacifica Color Quench Natural Lip Tint - Blood Orange (Swatch)

A yummy lip balm with natural ingredients to keep lips moisturized and healthy, this lip tint is perfect for anyone who wants just a hint of color - and if your lips aren't too dark or pigmented it will definitely give a bit of colour. I love the scent and the awesome moisturization it gives - one of the best lip balms I have tried!

Pacifica Color Quench Natural Lip Tint (Blood Orange) - Ingredients

Pacifica Color Quench Lip Tint - available at Sephora and www.sephora.com - Cost $9

Product provided by brand.

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Griffin Remedy Daily Shampoo With Sea Buckthorn and Orange - Ingredients

Griffin Remedy Daily Shampoo with Sea Buckthorn and Orange (available here) - $7.99

5-Step Guide To A Neater Nail Polish Application

Roses Ultimes de Chanel Makeup Collection 2012

Products in the Roses Ultimes de Chanel Makeup Collection Levres Scintillantes Glossimer (6 new limited edition shades): Surprise, Plaisir, Volupte, Amour, Desir, Jalousie. Cost: $29.50

Le Vernis Nail Colour (4 shades): Attraction, Frisson, Distraction, Tentation. Cost: $26. Details of the shades:

Attraction (545) - A metallic platinumFrisson (543) - Soft pink with golden shimmer Distraction (549) - A glossy bright coral Tentation (541) - A glossy bright fuschia-pink

The Trendy Photographer

Urban Decay Perversion 24/7 Glide-On Eyeliner

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eyeliner in Perversion - Swatches

And this is me with the UD Eyeliner in Perversion

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eyeliner in Perversion - Ingredients

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eyeliner in Perversion (available here) - $19. Also available at Sephora.

Avon Foot Works Marine Salt Invigorating Scrub

Avon Foot Works Marine Salt Invigorating Scrub - Formulated with marine salts and algae extracts, this exfoliates rough, dry skin for energized, noticeably smoother feet with a light fresh scent.

Avon Foot Works Marine Salt Invigorating Scrub - Ingredients

Avon Foot Works Marine Salt Invigorating Scrub (available here) - $6.00

Avon Nailwear Pro Nail Enamel: Casablanca

Avon Nailwear Pro Nail Enamel (check shades and availability here) - $3 to $5

Burt's Bees Facial Cleanser for Sensitive Skin - Natural Skin Solutions with Cotton Extract

Burt's Bees Facial Cleanser for Sensitive Skin - Review

Burt's Bees Soap-Free Facial Cleanser for Sensitive Skin - Ingredients

Burt's Bees Soap-Free Facial Cleanser for Sensitive Skin (available here) - $10.00

L'Oreal Infallible Le Rouge Lipstick - Everlasting Plum

L'Oreal Infallible Le Rouge Lipsticks - Revolutionary innovative formula from L'Oreal that combines bold luscious colour that lasts up to 10 hours and a creamy conditioning base with hydrating vitamin E.

L'Oreal Paris Infallible Le Rouge Lipstick in Everlasting Plum - Review

L'Oreal Infallible Le Rouge Lipstick in Everlasting Plum - Swatch

L'Oreal Infallible Le Rouge Lipstick in Everlasting Plum (more shades/availability here) - Cost approx. $10

Griffin Remedy Restorative Conditioner with Shea Butter and Macadamia Nut Oil

Griffin Remedy Restorative Conditioner with Shea Butter and Macadamia Nut Oil - Review

Griffin Remedy Restorative Conditioner with Shea Butter and Macadamia Nut Oil - Ingredients

Griffin Remedy Restorative Conditioner with Shea Butter and Macadamia Nut Oil (available here) - Cost $7.99

Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush (Plum Wine)

Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush - Revolutionary gel formula with a new bouncy texture, lightweight like a powder yet melts seamlessly into the skin like a cream. Natural sheer wash of colour that is buildable for greater intensity.

Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush in Plum Wine - Review

So..my experience with the Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush in Plum Wine?

Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush in Plum Wine (available here) - Cost $7.99

Korres Body Butter (Guava)

Korres Body Butter (Guava) - Rich, luxurious cream enriched with shea butter to soften, smooth, and nourish the skin with an invigorating blend of tropical fruits.

KORRES GUAVA BODY BUTTER - REVIEW

KORRES GUAVA BODY BUTTER - INGREDIENTS

Urban Decay Rockstar 24/7 Glide-On Eyeliner Pencil and a Dupe

Urban Decay Rockstar Glide-On Eyeliner - Creaminess from vitamin E, jojoba oil, cottonseed oil, in a waterproof formula that dries down in about 30 seconds for a longlasting finish that will not budge.

URBAN DECAY GLIDE-ON EYELINER PENCIL IN ROCKSTAR - SWATCHES

Urban Decay Rockstar Glide-On Eyeliner Pencil (available here) - Cost $18

URBAN DECAY ROCKSTAR VS. MAYBELLINE GEL LINER IN AUBERGINE

3 Small Makeup Brushes/Tools That Make a Big Difference!

Benefit Cosmetics Primer: Stay Don't Stray for Concealers and Eyeshadows

BENEFIT COSMETICS STAY DON'T STRAY PRIMER - REVIEW

A definite winner for me, Benefit Stay Don't Stray Primer is available here and costs $26 for the regular full-size bottle (or pick up a smaller size as part of one of the many sets at Sephora).

BENEFIT COSMETICS STAY DON'T STRAY PRIMER - INGREDIENTS

Avon Advance Techniques Damage Repair 3D Rescue Leave-In Treatment for Dry/Damaged Hair

Avon Advance Techniques Damage Repair 3D Rescue Leave-In Treatment for Dry/Damaged Hair - claims to repair hair damaged by chemicals, heat, or just harsh combing or brushing.

Avon Advance Techniques Damage Repair 3D Rescue Leave-In Treatment for Dry/Damaged Hair - Review

Avon Advance Techniques Damage Repair 3D Rescue Leave-In Treatment for Dry/Damaged Hair - Ingredients

Avon Advance Techniques Damage Repair 3D Rescue Leave-In Treatment for Dry/Damaged Hair (available here) - $12

MAC 187 Duo Fibre (Stippling) Brush

MAC 187 Duo Fibre (Stippling) Brush - A large full circular brush used for lightweight application and blending of face powder or pigments. Use to create soft layers or add textures. Made from a soft blend of goat and synthetic fibres.

MAC 187 - Duo Fibre - What is it?

How to Use the MAC 187 Duo Fibre (Stippling) Brush

Things to keep in mind while using the MAC 187

MAC 187 Duo-Fibre Stippling Brush (available here) - $42

NARS Spring 2012 Makeup Collection (Info)

Lhasa single eyeshadow - shimmery lavender-gray eyeshadow that lends lids a luminous look.

Paramaribo Duo Eyeshadow - metallic shades of brass and bronze. Wear each solo, or use one as a base and the other as an accent or highlight for a richly burnished effect.

Gaiety blush - Bright candy-pink Blush that’s as cheerful as the state of joyful exuberance for which it’s named.

Mexican Rose Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil - Hot-pink Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil leaves lips soft and gorgeously glossy thanks to moisture-rich hyaluronic spheres, which make pouts appear plumper.

Valparaiso Pure Matte Lipstick - rich raspberry lipstick delivers long-wearing color with a comfortable finish.

Bilbao lipstick - Smooth and super-conditioning, shimmering topaz colour.

Dark Rite Soft Touch Shadow Pencil - A navy blue that complements any warm-weather look. Use the creamy, long-wearing formula alone, as a base for layering with powder shadow, or to line and sculpt the eye.

Diamond Life Nail Polish - metallic violet.

YSL Spring 2012 Makeup (Swatches)

YSL Spring 2012 makeup collection rolled out some time back, and I got some swatches to share. Not surprisingly for spring/summer season, the colour palette has a lot of pastels and pinks and sheer blushes.

YSL Rouge Volupte Perle Lipsticks ($34) - New limited edition shades from the Spring Look Collection 2012 - 113 Irridescent Burgandy, 114 Sparkling Fuschia, 115 Shimmering Coral, and 116 Milky Pink

Voile de Blush (Gel blush) - water-based gel blush that provides a sheer wash of color to subtly tint your cheeks and a glowing, natural look, perfect for Spring time.

Golden Gloss (Shimmering Lip Gloss) - New shades for Spring: 49 Golden Violet and 50 Golden Peach

YSL La Laque (nail polish) - Limited edition Manicure Couture duos in two mouth watering color combinations: Bubble Gum Pink and Tangerine Orange (8), Mint Green and Chocolately Brown (7).

Products in the Roses Ultimes de Chanel Makeup Collection

Levres Scintillantes Glossimer (6 new limited edition shades): Surprise, Plaisir, Volupte, Amour, Desir, Jalousie. Cost: $29.50

Attraction (545) - A metallic platinum
Frisson (543) - Soft pink with golden shimmer
Distraction (549) - A glossy bright coral
Tentation (541) - A glossy bright fuschia-pink