Tackling summer trends: favorite summer blushes!

Hey guys!  Today I'm continuing with my summer trends series with a post on my top blushes for the summertime.  Most of these follow the peachy-pink trend that seems to always be in style during the warmer months, but I also threw in two others that rank high on my list.
I used to feel really "meh" towards wearing blush.  I was shy towards using much color at all, fearing it would make me look too much like a clown; I'd end up using really sheer blushes that you could hardly even tell I was wearing.  Now, though, I've come to realize why blush is so important!  It's one of the easiest ways to perk up your face and make you look younger.  And, of course, you have to find the right way to apply it for your face shape along with getting the color you like best.  I used to think peachy pinks looked terrible on me, but I've found that ones with enough pink in them can be very flattering!  Since I think you can also wear other colors during the summer, I included a shimmery bronze and vivid lilac shade in this post as well- together, they all scream "summer" to me!  (PS- I have quite a bit of these because I rotate the blush I wear daily.  I'm sure a lot of you can relate :)

Clockwise from upper left: Neutrogena Healthy Skin Blends blush in Fresh 20,  Hard Candy Fox in a Box blush in Spicy & Sweet, Darling Girl Cosmetics blush in Yes, Virginia!, DCG blush in Paradise Pink

Neutrogena Healthy Skin Blends sheer highlighting blush in Fresh

This is a blush I use when I'm doing a brighter pink or purple eye look and I want a soft, cool wash of color on my cheeks.  It's soft yet bright, so it creates a nice balance for vivid eyes.  I actually didn't use this much until recently, when I started playing around a bit more with color.  It's very sheer so I don't recommend it if you prefer more pigmented blushes.

Hard Candy Fox in a Box blush in Spicy & Sweet

You can read my full review of this here.  I usually swirl together the pinker shades, avoiding the brown, but all the brown does really is mute the final color and make it more peach (as in it doesn't make the color muddy).  This can be pretty bold for me- and the color leans pretty deep- but in small amounts it's gorgeous.

Darling Girl Cosmetics blush in Yes, Virginia!

This isn't as WHOA PURPLE as it looks in the jar or in my swatches, first of all!  It's subdued and pretty on cheeks and I love the finish.  Like Paradise Pink, it's almost-matte with a tiny amount of sheen.  I love this for a cooler-toned blush, perfect with neutral or purple/pink/violet eyes.

Darling Girl Cosmetics blush in Paradise Pink

On my NC20ish skin, this gives a really natural and flattering look- like you're wearing blush, but it's not in your face.  It's more on the peachy side with less pink, but its finish (same as Yes, Virginia!) makes it natural.  I will probably buy this in a full size the next DGC order I make.  I love it!

Clockwise from upper left: ELF Studio Contouring Blush/Bronzer, ELF Studio Golden Bronzer, ELF Studio blush in Twinkle Pink

ELF Studio Contouring Blush/Bronzer, blush side

This has been a long-time favorite of mine, despite my "meh" feelings towards glittery blush.  The soft color makes it more tolerable, I think.  This is pretty orange for what I normally gravitate towards, but I actually love this a lot.  It's also perfect in combination with the contouring bronzer (who would have thought..).

ELF Studio Golden Bronzer

No I STILL haven't finished this yet!  I purchased this at the beginning of last summer, but having used it so many times I was pretty sure it would be gone by now (and since I hit pan on it several months ago).  When I'm in the mood for a shimmery bronzer, this is what I use.  It's light in color and the shimmer isn't chunky, so it gives my face a really nice "glow".  A little on the cheekbones, temples, and nose looks wonderful.

ELF Studio blush in Twinkle Pink

This is a new one, and it's not the best quality blush, but the color is really pretty.  I should note that if you have the Studio Contouring blush/bronzer, the blush color is pretty similar, just a little more orange-toned.  This one has more pink in it, but as you can see in my swatches below, they're very close in color AND finish (same type of gold glitter).  However, Twinkle Pink is much more powdery, more so than my other Studio blushes.  It's a gorgeous peachy pink for summer, though!

Swatches:

L-R with flash: DCG Yes, Virginia!, ELF Studio Contouring Blush/Bronzer (blush), ELF Studio Twinkle Pink, Hard Candy Spicy & Sweet, DCG Paradise Pink, Neutrogena Fresh, ELF Studio Golden Bronzer

Hopefully this shows the sparkle/glitter a little better!

Hope you guys enjoyed this!  My next post will be my June favorites (I don't have too many), and then I have a few photo tutorials in the works.  Thanks for reading, like always. :)

xox

My Bronzer Collection (Reviews & Swatches)

Last week I showed you my favorite and least favorite self tanners, and this week it's my bronzer collection.  Tans are typically more popular during the summer months, so I figured this was a better time than any to do this post.  And I've just recently become obsessed with contouring, and a couple of the bronzers below are perfect for that!  All the ones I own are very affordable (with the exception of the MAC MSF which I received from a blog giveaway), although I'd love to try one of Tarte or Lancome's matte bronzers.  Keep reading to find out which of mine are my favorites and what purpose they serve best!

My bronzer collection all together!  I only have six (not including my two gel bronzers, Benefit Talk To The Tan and Too Faced Primed & Poreless Bronze Tint)

Wet n Wild ColorIcon Bronzer in Princess (top left)

This is another bronzer that I purchased due to rave reviews on the blogosphere!  I was always afraid of how dark it looked in the pan, but it's really all about having a light hand.  It's shimmery, so when I use  it I only apply sparingly along my cheekbones, nose, and temples and then buff out.  I also used this on films last semester because it helped make sure the actors' faces didn't get washed out by the lighting/camera (it was also a pretty universal color, as we didn't have a budget to buy different makeup for everyone!).  I don't get much use out of this, as I find it's just too shimmery and dark for my liking.  I think the color would be better on someone with a warmer skin tone.

ELF Studio Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder  (top right)

This bronzer is what I contoured with a lot over the last year.  Even though it has tiny glitter particles in it, they don't really transfer onto your skin.  It has also been my bronzer of choice for its pigmentation and color.  It's dark if you apply too much, but a quick dusting along my cheeks, temples, and nose give me just a healthy amount of color.  I'm actually surprised I haven't hit pan on this yet, as I used to use it almost every day!  It's a high favorite of mine, and I might repurchase just because when I run out- I've also found myself using the blush out of sheer laziness because its pretty and in the same package as the bronzer. ;)

ELF Studio Golden Bronzer (bottom right)

I used to apply this all over my face last summer, can you believe it?!  It's gorgeous don't get me wrong, but very frosty (not so much shimmery).  You can tell by the pan how much I loved it- this, along with the above Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder were my two favorite bronzers last year.  I still love this every once in awhile when I want a multitasking bronzer and highlighter, but only on my cheeks/nose and then buffed out.  It's also probably too light for most people darker than an NC20- it hardly gives my face much color, but just enough to add a healthy "glow".  Really pretty- it flawlessly achieves that dewy look. 

MAC Mineralize Skinfinish in Cheeky Bronze (LE- lower right corner)

I got this as a giveaway prize from Arezu last fall, but save it for special occasions.  I've come to the conclusions that MSFs aren't my thing- too shimmery/glittery- but this one is really pretty for that "summer bronzed" look.  I sweep it along my cheekbones either by itself or atop my Physicians Formula Mineral blush in Pink Glow (a matte peach blush) for a sunkissed look.  This would probably flatter warmer skin tones better, but I try to make it work!

Rimmel Natural Bronzer in Sun Light (far left)

This is a natural matte bronzer that is perfect for contouring, and has recently become a favorite of mine.  It's more pigmented than the N.Y.C. Bronzing Powder, but still light so it's hard to overdo.  It's affordable between $3-$5, and the lightest of the three total shade offerings from this line.  I think a matte bronzer is an essential in everyone's makeup collection and I'm shocked that I only started using one this year!  I do wish it were a tiny bit darker in color, but it suits my fair skin just fine how it is.

NYC Bronzing Powder in Sunny (top middle)

Hello, new addition to my collection!  I just picked this up after seeing and reading about it for the longest time.  I got it home and realized it was close in color and finish to my Rimmel Natural Bronzer, because it's matte as well.  It's nice in that the color is natural on my light skin and it's great for contouring, and the pigmentation is much better when applied on your face versus the swatches below (for the swatches I had to rub my finger across the pan three times to get the payoff you see).  It's a great price though ($2.99), and does what it's supposed to do.  I love this so far and have been using it every day this week!

Daylight, flash

Note: Rimmel bronzer is Sun LIGHT not Sun Dance as labeled in the picture above, sorry!

Daylight, no flash

Same order as above

That's it!  Do you wear bronzer? (I know some people embrace their paleness, and if you do, I totally envy you and hope you can rub some of that off on me! ;) What are your favorites?  

Hope you all are having a great day! :)

My current skincare routine (normal/sensitive skin)

I've been meaning to do this post for a long time now, but for one reason or another I just didn't get around to it.  So, finally! :)  These are the products I've been loving and using on a daily basis, pretty much all year so far.  I've tried new products here and there but I keep going back to these.
For reference, my skin is normal/sensitive with occasional dry spots.  Typically I just get the occasional pimple, unless I'm really stressed out- then I get small breakouts in my T-zone.  But my skin is pretty sensitive to different products so I have to be careful with skincare (in particular moisturizers, which I have the most problems with).  

Makeup remover:

Pond's Cold Cream

I mentioned this in my 'empty products' post, and I finally repurchased it after I got home from school.  Yes!  This is my go-to for removing eye makeup- it doesn't tug, it's moisturizing (doesn't dry out my eyes), it's cheap, and it lasts forever.  Win, win, win, win.

Cleanser:

Aveeno Skin Brightening Daily Scrub

I'm finally blogging about this after meaning to for forever!  Earlier this year I was trying out a few different cleansers to find something to help clear up my skin, and nothing really worked.  I went right back to this (which I've used on and off since I was 15ish) and I'm sticking with it.  It doesn't break me out, the exfoliating beads are super gentle for my sensitive skin, it clears up my breakouts, and leaves my face feeling refreshed and bright.  I highly recommend.

Daily Moisturizer:

Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer SPF 15

This is another product that I started using a long time ago (my sister used Aveeno products when she lived at home, so when I was younger I would try them out, lol!) but recently repurchased.  I've used it off and on all year and it works great for a daily moisturizer.  It provides enough moisture for my skin's occasional dry patches, doesn't break me out, and the SPF is a bonus.  

Nighttime Moisturizer:

Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture for Sensitive Skin

I think this is my third bottle of this moisturizer!  I've tried several different moisturizers and I still love this for nighttime.  It doesn't irritate my skin, and the light consistency absorbs quickly and doesn't cause breakouts.  I've had problems with a lot of moisturizers/creams, but this one has never given me issues.

Spot Treatment:

Clean & Clear Advantage Mark Treatment

I'm not a fan of many of the Clean & Clear products I've tried, but this has worked pretty well for me (I'm almost out of it!).  It effectively reduces the size of my pimples when used nightly.  If I could remember to use it twice a day I think it'd work even better.  I have the Clean & Clear Persa-Gel 10 spot treatment, but it's either the benzoyl peroxide that doesn't work for me, or the fact that it's such a high concentration.  

Mask:

Clinique Skin Calming Moisture Mask

This isn't on the website anymore so I'm thinking it's discontinued- if anyone can confirm that for me, I'd be very appreciative!  This is actually my sister's from years ago, but I use it when my skin needs moisture.  It doesn't make my skin feel tight or irritated, and is really easy to apply/take off.  My face always looks really glowy after I use this.

What do you guys use/love on a regular basis?  

Favorites, finally! (As of recently)

I know I totally missed my March favorites post- I had every intention to do it (I've been able to try out quite a few new things recently compared to normal), and then time just escaped me.  However, I decided I could still do a favorites post even if it's not an official "monthly" one.  I hope that's OK with you all!  I'll still do an April favorites so I don't get off track.

Clockwise from upper left:
1. Lancome color design quad (filigree, kitten heel, click, the new black)-  My mom got this eyeshadow mini as part of a GWP and since she doesn't really wear eyeshadow, she gave it to me.  The colors are gorgeous!  I'm not a fan of The New Black (I have it in the full-sized version from years ago) as the glitter is chunky and the texture isn't smooth, but I'm in love with the peach, taupe, and gold.

2.  Physicians Formula Happy Booster Glow & Mood Boosting blush in Natural-  I got this over spring break but started using it regularly just recently.  I'm not a huge fan of shimmer blushes, but the color is perfect- it has enough pink to still be peachy (without leaning too orange).

3.  Maybelline Fit Me foundation in 115 Ivory- I've been using this on and off for the last month, and it's what I turn to when I'm in need of a bit more coverage.  It's still on the lighter side of the spectrum, but being someone that really dislikes foundation, it gives me enough without feeling heavy.  It's also creamy and moisturizing on my dry skin.  I was actually a little surprised I was this light, but seeing as I haven't gone out much this winter my skin has lightened up a fair amount.

4.  ELF Studio contour brush- I'm loving this for more precise crease work.  I wrote my review of it which you can find here!

5.  Maybelline Lash Stiletto Voluptuous- This is the version with the curved brush.  I bought this to use for my friend's makeup in the film I worked on, and then I kept it for myself afterwards. ;)  I'm planning on writing a review of it in the near future, because I love the volume and length it gives.  I normally dislike Maybelline mascaras so I was a little surprised!

6.  NYC Smooch-proof 16-hour lip stain in Forever Mine Wine- This might go into holy grail status for me in terms of lip products.  I haven't tried many, but this one lasts literally all day and fades evenly.  The color is gorgeous, too- extremely flattering on my fair skin.  I'm planning a review on this one too.

Swatches:

 

Left to right: Lancome color design quad, Physicians Formula blush, NYC lip stain, Maybelline Fit Me foundation

Thanks for reading!  I also received my Sigma F80 flat top kabuki in the mail this week, so stay tuned for my review and giveaway. :)

Can't live without them- my favorite makeup brushes

Good makeup brushes are one of those things that are absolutely essential, but I seem to always hate dishing out money for.  I own two MAC brushes, the 224 and 252, and they are ones my mom bought for me the first time I ever got my makeup done (My 13th birthday.  Aw, good memories!).  Those are my only "high-end" brushes; the rest are all very affordable.  I'm not sure yet where I stand in the "drugstore or high-end debate" when it comes to brushes, because although I don't think you should have to spend top dollar for them, my MAC brushes are pretty amazing- and I'm sure they will last me as long as I want them to (with care, of course).  With my lower-end brushes, I'm constantly wondering how many years I will get out of them before I have to repurchase.  But I digress!
Today I'm going to share with you my favorites from my (small) collection and what I like about them.

(Left to right:  MAC 224, ELF essentials definer, ELF essentials eyeshadow, Bare Escentuals concealer, EcoTools bamboo bronzer, ELF studio powder)

Eyes:

MAC 224-  I love, love, love, love this brush and am so glad I own it.  I've never had problems blending out eyeshadows, because this is perfect for doing that "windshield wiper" method and eliminating harsh lines.  If you take good care and wash it regularly, it will keep it's slightly pointed tip which allows it to work well in the outer corner area.  It's in line with the high-quality everyone talks about with MAC brushes.

ELF essentials eye definer brush-  I go through phases where I love and feel indifferent about this brush, but it needs to be in my collection nonetheless.  It is perfect for doing outer corner/"v" work, especially when you do the index card trick (holding up an index card along the line of your eye to make the perfect winged eyeshadow look).  And, like my other ELF brush below, it's only $1.

ELF essentials eyeshadow brush-  For $1, this eyeshadow brush is a great buy for your standard application of lid color.  I've had mine for almost three years (I'm pretty sure?) and it's kept its shape and has yet to shed.  It's also a good size for my lid area- my other MAC brush, the 252, is a little too large unless I'm only doing a wash of one color.  

I wish I could say I had more favorite eye brushes, but 1) my collection isn't too big, and 2) these are the ones I would actually recommend to others.  I definitely have a list of eye brushes I want/need to purchase!

Face:

Bare Escentuals maximum cover concealer brush-  This was in my Bare Minerals starter kit that I received for Christmas.  I've never used brushes for concealer prior to owning this- I didn't think they would be any better than my fingers.  Well, when I need any extra help covering pimples or dark spots, this guy works wonders.  I love using it with my Bare Minerals foundation on the redness around my nose and underneath my eyes.  And it hasn't shed or bled once.

EcoTools bamboo bronzer brush- If there is one brush I would recommend from all of these, it's this one!  I take this everywhere and probably couldn't live without it.  It's unbelievably soft, it never sheds, and it gives me the best application of mineral powder foundation/blush/bronzer ever.  It's bulky which is annoying for travel, but I still think it's well worth it.  And it's around $10 at most drugstores.  

ELF studio powder brush-  This brush is a love/hate (it's also in my "brushes I wouldn't buy again" post to come).  I'm glad I have it because the few times I use tinted moisturizer or any liquid foundation (hardly ever), I stipple it on using this.  It's also great for applying loose powder.  However, the ferrule of mine has partly detached from the handle, so I have to hold it in place.  It just really makes the brush feel cheap.  I can't complain since it's only $3, but something like that is annoying.

Stay tuned for my post about the brushes I'm "meh" about!  

Any of these that you like or dislike?  I'd love to hear from you. 

Favorites of 2010 part two: Face, lips, brushes

Alright, today I have part two of my 2010 favorites to share with you all!  I'm going to skip the intro on this post and just jump right into explaining everything.

Face:

(Not pictured) Maybelline Mineral Power powder foundation- This stuff led to my transition to Bare Minerals and basically made me comfortable wearing foundation on a regular basis.  After using this powder foundation, I realized I hated fussing with liquid foundations and this gave me the coverage/"glow" I wanted in half the time.  

Covergirl Instant Cheekbones blush in Refined Rose- I've had this blush forever!  But it's great for a natural flush of pink, and it's essentially three blushes in one (you get a highlight for cheekbones, one for the apples, and one to contour).

ELF Studio blush in Blushing Rose- Typically I don't like sparkly blushes, but this one is the prettiest deep rose/almost plum color with gold shimmer.  It's beautiful for the colder months and with purple/bronze eye makeup (my favorite!).

ELF Studio Golden Bronzer- This is a summer staple for me.  I thought I'd for sure finish the entire thing this year, but come winter I wasn't wanting a shimmery bronzer all over my face.  For summer, yes!  So light and natural- perfect for light skin.  Won't turn you orange.

ELF Studio Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder- The bronzing side of this (I like the blush, but sometimes it's too glittery for my liking.  I have to be in the 'right mood') is what I use when I need a more matte bronzer.  It still has a little shimmer in it, but it doesn't make you look like a disco ball when it's applied.

Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Double Face Perfector in Light- This concealer was my go-to this summer, and probably will be next summer, too.  Right now my skin is too dry, and it's not a moisturizing concealer.  It overs great pigmentation and coverage for my red areas that I haven't found in many drugstore concealers.

Lips, other:

EcoTools Bamboo Bronzer brush- I forgot to add this in the picture below with the rest of my brushes.  This baby is a staple for me!  I always go over my entire face with it after I'm done applying my powder foundation and blush/highlight/bronzer (whatever I'm wearing that day), because I hate having much color on my face.  This buffs everything out and makes it blend flawlessly.  Plus, it's the softest brush I've tried.

Revlon Super Lustrous lip glosses in Peach Petal and Lilac Pastelle- I finally bought a few of these lip glosses over the summer, and I'm so happy I did.  I love these two colors for light lip looks.  Lilac Pastelle is just gorgeous, and thankfully not too "out there".  

Wet 'n' Wild Silk Finish lipstick in Dark Wine- I love this for the few times I wear red lips.  It's a pretty deep red with the slightest bit of berry.  And the formula is amazing, especially since it's $.99!

Brushes:

Angled duo-fiber blush brush from Walmart- I'm not sure what the name of this brand is, but I've only seen these brushes at Walmart.  This brush is great for applying blush and contouring, and the bristles are really soft.  It's great quality, too, and I want to say it was around $6 or $7.  

MAC 224- I rediscovered this brush this year after getting more into makeup, and don't know why I disregarded it for so long (I've had it since I was 13!).  It's THE brush I use for blending out my crease and applying a soft wash of color to that area.

ELF eyeshadow brush- This is a great $1 find that works well for applying lid colors.  The head isn't too wide or long (like my MAC 252 which is usable but less convenient), and it picks up pigment really well.

EcoTools angled eyeliner brush- I'm casually looking for a new angled eyeliner brush right now, but this was my first one and is what I use for gel/cream eyeliner application.  I'd recommend it for a good starter option (and that it's only about $3.50), but I'd like something firmer and more precise.

ELF Studio powder brush- First of all, I love the brush of this.  When I try out or use any kind of cream/liquid foundation or tinted moisturizer, I apply it with this.  However, the ferrule of mine is getting loose from the handle and will probably break in the near future. 

Whew!  That was a long one.  Thanks for your continued input on everything- it's always appreciated!  Have a great night everyone!

Favorites of 2010 part one: Eyes

I am so late to the party!  I just got back to school on Saturday, meaning I'm now finally able to write about my 2010 favorites.  The majority of my makeup is here so while I was home for break I didn't feel like I could accurately talk about last year's picks.  It's funny, because I thought this would be a lot easier- I have a TON of new favorites that are just from this month!  I had to remember what I loved last year, instead of what I've been using recently (this does make me excited to do my January favorites at the end of this month).

I was going to do these all in one post, but after typing it all up it was just massive.  So, the rest- face, lips, brushes- will come tomorrow!

Eyes:

Coastal Scents 88 Matte palette- I got this as an early birthday present this summer, and I find myself using it more and more every day.  I love the variety of colors, both bright and neutral- as someone who likes color but not really bright looks, this is a great balance!

Wet 'n' Wild 6-pan Color Icon palettes- These were my go-to eyeshadows this summer (not including the LE holiday palette, middle).  They make choosing color combinations easy and effortless, they're pigmented, and they last all day with a primer underneath.  

MAC eyeshadow in Retrospeck and Naked Lunch- I think Naked Lunch will always be a favorite of mine (ah, it brings back memories of my first time with makeup!)- it goes with so many eyeshadows and really brightens up my eye area.  Retrospeck does a lot of the same things, although it's a lustre finish and is pretty glittery/shimmery.  There is a little fallout, but it's the prettiest light antiqued gold shade.  

Eyeliner, mascara, other:

L'Oreal Extra Volume Collagen mascara- I rediscovered this mascara over the summer, and I have so much love for it again!  It gives me dark, dramatic lashes that I don't get from many drugstore mascaras.  The formula is on the wetter side (unlike so many I've tried- Lash Blast, various Rimmel, Physicians Formula Organic Wear), but it takes my lashes from "normal" to "WOW".  Volume, length, drama.  See my review here.

Rimmel Spark It Up! eyeliners in Tiger's Eye and Black Gold- These are products that I don't use much anymore, but for some reason wore all the time last year.  I don't know if it's the change in seasons or what, but they smudge and migrate like nobody's business on me now.  I really wouldn't recommend them for anything other than how pretty/sparkly they are.  (Although if I could find the color of Black Gold in a better quality eyeliner, I would buy it in a heartbeat!)

Victoria's Secret Pro eyeshadow primer- I started out using Almay Bright Eyes eye base as my first 'real' eyeshadow primer, but that dried out my eyelids.  This VS primer is $8, about the same as Almay's, but it works better for me.  It has that similar consistency that Too Faced Shadow Insurance has- runny, invisible- and I think it's a great budget option for anyone who needs a solid primer but can't spend nearly $20 on higher end offerings.

Clinique Quickliner in Coffee- This automatic eyeliner lasts forever.  It's a rich dark brown that doesn't pull or tug, and it's smudge-able until it sets.  

Wet 'n' Wild Color Icon eyeliner in Amethyst- This was brought out in a LE display at the end of last summer along with the other new colors they just released.  The formula is MUCH better than the old pencils, although for me I need to reapply throughout the day (the color fades slightly).  For $.99 it's hard to beat.

Physicians Formula Gel/cream liner for green eyes- purple- This is the purple shade from the green eyes trio, and I absolutely loved this last year.  The staying power is awesome.  It's pigmented, although it does take a few swipes to get opaque color.  Still very worth it!

Any comments/questions are welcome!  Thanks for reading. 

I'm still alive! Things I'm loving lately

Hi everyone!  I cannot apologize enough for my lack of posting lately.  I've been so swept up with school and friends, and I also lost a lot of my interest in makeup/experimenting with it.  I think when other things comes up, it really takes a backseat to what's important.
When I went home for Thanksgiving, though, my spark was ignited (my problem then was that I forgot my camera)- I wanted to buy makeup and actually try out different looks again.  So I know when I'm home for Christmas break I'll get back into posting more frequently.  I have a solid five weeks of break starting the end of next week, so you can bet the anticipation is killing me!  I'm going to be really sad to leave school, though- I've found such amazing people here to call my friends.  It's a great feeling to have people who genuinely care about you, and it's been just what I needed.

With that said, this post is long overdue.  My makeup routine has changed drastically over the last month or so, getting simpler and simpler every day!  But I still have my favorites that I resort to when I'm lacking the ounce of creativity left in me.  ;)
First off, I want to start out with the skin care products I've been using the last couple of weeks.  My skin is pretty sensitive and runs on the dry side, depending on the weather- but growing up, I've never had a problem with acne/breakouts.  Ever since starting college this semester, however, my skin has broken out almost every week.  One pimple would clear up, and then another would form, all in my T-zone.  This was SO frustrating!  Mainly because I'm not used to having actual "breakout" areas.
Anyway, over Thanksgiving break I purchased both of the following products and I've been using them ever since- so, almost two weeks now.  My breakouts have almost completely cleared up and my skin feels like normal again.  Hallelujah!

Aveeno Positively Radiant moisturizer spf 15 and Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Daily Scrub.  

I think this Neutrogena cleanser is what has helped my skin.  I was using the Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Power-Cream Wash, but never noticed much of an improvement in breakouts.  This scrub, on the other hand, has exfoliating beads that are still gentle enough to use twice a day (which is recommended).  I follow this with the Aveeno moisturizer, and even though it has SPF, I use both day and night.  I just love it.  I'm thinking I may need something a little more moisturizing for colder days, though, so if anyone has any recommendations for that, I'm all ears!

Onto makeup, which is going to be short but sweet:

(Everything else I'm using on a daily basis right now I've mentioned countless times on here)

Maybelline Mineral Power powder foundation in Light 2-3- I think I've told you my obsession with this foundation before, but my laziness has made me obsessed again.  It's so easy to just buff onto my face and go.  After using this type of foundation, I honestly don't know if I'll ever be able to do liquid- it takes me so much more time/effort.  ;)  I'm curious as to how Bare Minerals works- if you've used it or have any recommendations, please let me know in the comments!  I'd love to hear.

Rimmel eyeliner in Black Gold- This is a gorgeous antique gold eyeliner that I've talked about before.  It doesn't stay in place the best, so I need to top it with some kind of powder, but the color is so pretty that I put up with it.  

Maybelline eyeshadow quad in Time For Wine- You all probably know my favorite eyeshadow color to wear is either champagnes or purples/berries.  I love using the two purples in this quad in my outer corner- so pretty!  I really don't recommend this palette for its quality.  The pigmentation isn't the best, (in fact, the other two colors hardly show up on me at all- see swatch), so if I want more color I use this:

Dark shimmery purple from my Coastal Scents 88 Matte palette- This is a really pretty eggplant purple that works well when I want a little more color.  It goes great with my green eyes!  I've also been using the matte black shadow from this same palette for lining my eyes, and a matte cream for highlight.

Swatches:

(L-R: Maybelline Time For Wine quad, Rimmel Black Gold eyeliner)

*I forgot to swatch the Coastal Scents shade, I'm sorry!

Lastly, this is the kind of eye look I've been doing pretty much daily the last few weeks.  So simple and neutral (Using the Maybelline eyeshadow quad and Rimmel eyeliner):

 (Please excuse my eyebrows...)

Thanks for reading, everyone!  And definitely expect more frequent posting to happen in a couple weeks.  Finals are full-speed ahead now!

<3

Wednesday Weekly Favorites: No Theme!

I've actually been using a lot more this week, but they've been posted about several times already.  :)  Like, my L'Oreal Extra Volume Collagen mascara, Maybelline Amethyst single eyeshadow, Covergirl Eyelights Vivid Ruby eyeliner, etc.  While I'm thinking about mascara, I just wanted to share a trick with you- I'm a big fan of Clumps Of Mascara.  B is so funny, and hers was actually the first makeup blog I followed.  Anyway, she posted about this trick when applying mascara that really wowed me!  You swipe the brush up your lashes, but stop at almost the ends of them, and hold for several seconds.  It really helps "lift" them!

OK, back to my favorites.  :)

(ELF Neutral Eye beauty book, EOS Lemon Drop lip balm, NYC Shimmer Color Wheel face powder, Jane Blushing Earth Sheer blush, Maybelline Jade Unstoppable eyeliner)

ELF beauty book- I posted about this here (See that post for swatches, too).  There are so many lovely combinations with it!

EOS lip balm- I bought this a few weeks ago, and ever since it's been my favorite lip balm.  It smells just like a lemon bar and keeps my lips moisturized nicely.

NYC mosaic face powder- This color, Shimmer, was I think a limited edition one a year or two ago.  It's pretty pigmented and has been working nicely as a bronzer for me.  In the swatch below it looks orange, but the little amount I use doesn't show up that way.

Jane blush- This is the perfect "glowy" cheek blush, in my opinion.  It's shimmery but not overly so, and it's sheer so the color is buildable.  It gives me the right amount of color (Just a little!).

Maybelline Upstoppable eyeliner- These were on rollback at Walmart a couple weeks ago, and since I wanted a nice dark-green-but-not-teal eyeliner, I grabbed it.  It sure has good staying power!  It's not 100% budge proof (If you really dug your finger over it it would lighten a little), but definitely better than most I've tried.  

Swatches:

(Jane Blushing Earth Sheer, NYC Shimmer, Maybelline Jade)

(Jade eyeliner after rubbing my hand for about 10 seconds)

That's all for now!  Hope you're all having a nice day today.

(And if anyone is interested, my recovery so far has been wonderful.  The Vicodin is taking care of the pain because I haven't felt any yet.  My cheeks are swollen, but not too bad.  I feel so lucky, lol; I know so many people who just felt like death after getting their wisdom teeth out.)

Wednesday Weekly Favorites: Glow-y Summer Goodies

This week was a sort of continuation from a couple weeks ago when I went a little lighter with my makeup.  I've been very into making my skin/makeup look as healthy and clear and glow-y as possible this summer, and these products have helped me in doing so.

MAC 252 Large Shader brush- OK, this is one of the two products that doesn't go along with the theme.  For my 13th birthday, my mom took me to a MAC counter to learn how to do my makeup, and she bought me two brushes; this one and the 224 tapered brush.  Ever since I came across ELF's brushes, I haven't really used this.  Actually it's been longer than that.  I haven't used this brush in a looong time.  But anyway, I got it all nice and clean last week, and decided I needed to put it to the test again.  Surprise, surprise- I love it!  Like you've probably heard, it's great for "packing-on" color to the lid area.

Wet 'n' Wild Walking On Eggshells eyeshadow trio- This gives me such a pretty, shimmery eye that I love to wear during the summer.  The colors are soft and pigmented, and I feel like the combination of shades help brighten my eyes.

ELF Tinted Moisturizer in Light Beige- I bought one of these awhile back, fell in love with it, purchased a back-up, and then fell out of love with the first one before I even finished it.  Last week I opened the back-up to see if the consistency was any different since it was "new".  It was a little thicker in texture than the one I had been using for months, and I think that made all the difference.  I've been using it ever since- I'm back in love with this product!  It gives me light coverage that's not sheer, and doesn't go on super shiny like other TMs can.  Plus, the color is pretty much a perfect match for my skin.

ELF Shimmering Facial Whip in Lilac Petal- I talked about this here, when I compared it to my other favorite highlighter, Benefit High Beam.  I'm just trying to use this up, but I really do think it's a quality product.  I wear it on top of my tinted moisturizer or foundation, but under my powder so it doesn't look too shimmery.

Maybelline The Colossal Volum' Express mascara- You all probably know how much I love this mascara by now.  I did a review of it here, so you can see why!  It's my current HG mascara.  Covergirl Lash Blast gives me great volume, but this one gives me great volume AND length.

Neutrogena Acne Stress Control face wash- The lovely Jamie at Maquilagem Masstige recently recommended this face wash for dry/sensitive skin.  I've been using it for about two weeks now I think and it's been working nicely for me.  It doesn't irritate my sensitive skin or leave it feeling tight, and I really think it has helped reduce the redness in my face (It has green tea and cucumber in it).  My skin usually gets a little red after cleansing, but it hasn't been so noticeable since using this.

That's it for this week!  Any of these products that you like as well?  Let me know!

:)

Wednesday Weekly Favorites: Trying New Things

Happy Wednesday!  Today I'm here with this week's Wednesday Weekly Favorites.  I branched out a little this week and tried a few new things, hence the title of the post.  Let's get started!

Clockwise from left: ELF Studio "C" brush, Monistat anti-chafing gel, Target Up & Up brand radiant moisturizer with SPF 15, ELF Studio blush in Blushing Rose, Revlon Colorstay blemish concealer in Fair, ELF Studio eyeshadow in Pebble

The Monistat Anti-Chafing Gel-Powder and Target Up & Up moisturizer go hand-in-hand for this.  Now, before buying the Monistat, I read reviews online that it worked well as BOTH a face primer and eye primer.  The active ingredient in it is Dimethicone, which is also an ingredient in the infamous UDPP.  I got it home, tried it on my eyes before eyeshadow, and wasn't loving the results.  I would top it off with a translucent powder, but that didn't really help.  Then, I decided to try mixing it with a little of this thick moisturizer.  Voila!  It's been working well as a make-shift eyeshadow primer.  I know I need to just bite the gun and buy a real eyeshadow primer, but until then this is working just fine.

Monistat on left, Moisturizer on right; before mixing together

After mixing together (This always makes too much, so I waste a little.  I'm working on how to only squeeze out a teeny bit)

ELF Studio blush in Blushing Rose- This is another new thing I tried.  I usually stay FAR away from darker blushes, but after passing it at Target too many times, I decided to try it.  It's gorgeous, people.  I use a super light hand and it adds a lovely shimmery flush to my fair skin.  

Revlon Colorstay Blemish concealer in Fair- I've been in serious need for a concealer, and although this one was pricey for me ($8-something at Target), I sucked it up and bought it.  I needed something that would conceal my pimples better.  This one does the job, and covers up the redness around them too.  

ELF Studio eyeshadow in Pebble- I think I've talked about this eyeshadow before, but it's perfect for when I want a super easy, smokey, daytime eye.  This week I've just been putting this all over my lid and blending it into my crease, and then just adding a highlight color.  Simple.

ELF Studio "C" brush- Also a favorite I've had around for awhile, I've been using this lately for my highlight colors and then to add dark colors to the outer part of my lid.  It's good for applying colors when you want pigment, but not "packed-on".

Swatches of ELF eyeshadow in Pebble and ELF Studio blush in Blushing Rose

That's it for this week's favorites.  I'm happy that I was able to branch out a little and experiment with different products and uses for things I already have.  I've been experimenting with lip products recently too, so expect those to come in next week's favorites!  :)

Wednesday Weekly Favorites: Going Lighter

This week I finally felt like I made the transition to more "summer appropriate" makeup.  At least for a little while, anyway- who knows how long it will last.  I'm usually not one to lighten up my eye makeup during the hotter months, but this week I tried especially hard to hold back!  I also experimented with wearing less foundation again.  As I've mentioned before on here, I'm a foundation newbie- I just got into it recently.  And ironically, recently I've had more breakouts than normal.  It could just be due to the hot and humid weather, but I decided I'd see what wearing less makeup on my face would do for my skin. 

Anyway, enough talking!  These are my favorite items for this past week:

Maybelline The Colossal Volum' Express mascara- I've mentioned this numerous times here, but I seriously love it.  It's the only Maybelline mascara that has given me good results!  

ELF Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder- This one I've also mentioned on here.  I've been using the blush, and I have to say it's about the only peach color I've tried and liked on my skin tone.  It has enough pink and shimmer in it to even out the orange.

NYC IndividualEyes compact in Central Park- Can you tell by now that I like this?  LOL.  I've been using this palette almost every day since I got it last week.  I love that bottom champagne color; it's getting the most usage by far.  I just love the colors together for a soft, neutral, everyday eye.

Aveeno Clear Complexion foaming cleanser- I've been rotating my cleansers (I collected quite a few last month, and now I'm trying to use them up), and this week I'm using this one.  I like that the foam consistency feels non-irritating on my sensitive skin, and it blends easily into a lather.  

NYC Smooth Mineral Natural Veil- This is just a translucent powder, but I really like the quality of it. It's very finely milled, and it sticks with me all day.  This week I've just been using concealer on my couple remaining pimples (Thank goodness the others cleared up!), and then dusting my entire face with this.

Mary Kay eyeliner in Amethyst-  I've been pairing this with my NYC IndividualEyes compact eyeshadows, and it's a great combination, especially for green eyes.  

Wet 'n' Wild Idol Eyes eyeliner in Dark Brown- I've been using the smudge-tip a lot, and then I'm also trying to just finish up the rest of this eyeliner.  I've had it for a few months and now have other dark browns I like better, so I want to get rid of this.  LOL.  It's still a good eyeliner, though, don't get me wrong.

Have you used any of these products?  What are your current favorites?

And one last thing before I go for the night-

I got this at Target today:

Definitely expect a review in a week or so once I've given it a fair trial!  

My current favorite body washes & a deal!

Hey everyone.  Sorry about the lack of posts yesterday; I worked during the day, then drove to my boyfriend's house (He lives in a town an hour away from me) for the night.  It was a busy day/night, but today is my "relax" day.  It's been sooo nice so far!

For this post I wanted to share with you three of my current favorite body washes.  Body wash is something I never used to buy or use, but now it's a part of my showers that I look forward to!  I tend to use an awful amount of it at once (Like, instead of using a quarter-sized amount for my entire body, I probably use 2 quarter-sized amounts for both my arms and legs.  Lol), but I can explain.  For one, I love using a lot at once.  And two, I grow tired of a scent before I can use up the entire bottle of it.
Anyway.
These three each have a different consistency, which is partly why I chose them.  They each smell pretty different, too (But wonderful nonetheless).  You can find them all at your local drugstore.

St. Ive's Oatmeal & Shea Butter, Softsoap Body Butter Coconut Scrub, Softsoap Juicy Pomegranate & Mango Infusions

(Top to bottom- Softsoap Pomegranate/Mango, Softsoap Coconut scrub, St. Ive's Oatmeal/Shea Butter)

St. Ive's Oatmeal & Shea Butter is a moisturizing body wash, designed for dry or irritated skin.  I love the creamy consistency of this, and the smell is very neutral in comparison to the other two.  Can I just say that the combination of oatmeal & shea butter is maybe my most favorite soothing smell?

Softsoap Body Butter Coconut Scrub was referred to me by the beauty girl at Walgreens.  I was looking for a good daily exfoliating wash, and she directed me to this one.  If you like coconut, I'd highly recommend this.  It smells divine, and it's exfoliating but still creamy (Not like one of those thick body scrubs that is basically all exfoliant).

Softsoap Juicy Pomegranate & Mango Infusions is the body wash that got me into body washes.  It has "moisture beads" in it that remind me of exfoliating beads, but don't have that scratchy feel.  This smell wakes me up when I take showers in the morning.  The texture is more of a gel than cream, but it's a nice change from the other two.

Lastly, I wanted to share a pretty good deal on Neutrogena, but it has to do with ShopKo.  Unfortunately I don't think there are any ShopKo locations in the South or East coat, so this wouldn't be something everyone could take advantage of.  

This week ShopKo has Neutrogena eyeshadow, liner, and mascara BOGOfree.  Allyou.com's coupon page has a $3/1 coupon for any Neutrogena product.  If you combine that with the BOGO deal, you could get two products for very cheap.  I'm not too sure how much ShopKo marks up its Neutrogena products, but I'm going to head over there today and find out.  I'll update this and let you know!

Thanks for reading everyone.  Hope you're having a good last day of your weekend.