Body and Soul

OPI Couture de Minnie Nail Lacquers, Inspired by Minnie Mouse

2013-04-04T17:19:00.000-04:00

High Fashion Minnie!

OPI Walks the Runway with New Couture de Minnie

Nail Lacquers, Inspired by Minnie Mouse

OPI announces the launch of its Couture de Minnie collection, including four

limited edition nail lacquers and one new Liquid Sand™ shade. Created in honor of

Disney’s beloved character, the Couture de Minnie line explores the fashion-forward

side of Minnie Mouse, mixing pink, fuschia and red shades with textural elements. In

addition to three crème lacquers, the Couture de Minnie line features a red and white

polka dot glitter shade and the strawberry-hued Liquid Sand nail lacquer in Magazine

Cover Mouse to give nails a sparkly, matte finish.

“Last summer, OPI created a ‘Vintage Minnie Mouse’ line. Women around the

world fell in love with the fun and playful shades evocative of Minnie’s traditional look,”

explains Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, OPI Executive VP & Artistic Director. “This year,

OPI is exploring a different side of Minnie Mouse. The Couture de Minnie collection

draws inspiration from Minnie’s iconic style and incorporates trends most recently seen

on the runways, from standout shades to fun textural elements.”

The Couture de Minnie collection includes:

Chic from Ears to Tail

This pop of bubblegum pink is totally fabulous!

A Definite Moust-Have

This fantastic fuchsia is at the top of my shopping list.

Minnie Style

This white and red glitter is the height of fashion.

Innie Minnie Mightie Bow

Catch this crimson by the toe!

Magazine Cover Mouse

The headline-making strawberry has sparkling texture.

Couture de Minnie nail lacquers each feature OPI’s exclusive ProWide™ Brush

for the ultimate in application. Liquid Sand lacquers should always be worn without top

coat. This limited edition promotion will be available beginning June 2013 at

professional salons, including Beauty Brands, Beauty First, Chatters, Dillard’s, jcp

Salons, Pure Beauty, Regis, Trade Secret, ULTA and ulta.com for $9.00 ($10.95 CAN)

suggested retail for each nail lacquer.

Visit www.opi.com, follow OPI on Twitter @OPI_PRODUCTS and become a Facebook fan!

ABOUT OPI
As the world leader in the professional nail care industry, OPI is committed to providing high-quality products and services to both salons and their customers, along with a focus on industry safety and innovation. Known for its exceptional formula, fashionable colors and iconic names, OPI’s heavily-pigmented lacquers are super rich, long-lasting and chip-resistant – offering an affordable luxury to consumers. OPI nail lacquer is available in over 200 shades. Each lacquer features OPI’s exclusive ProWide™ Brush for the ultimate in application. Currently, OPI is available in over 100 countries and retails a full line of professional items, including nail treatments, finishing products, lotions, manicure/pedicure products, files, tools, gels and acrylics.

Aqualillies for tarte: Eye & Cheek Palette, Glamazon Pure Performance Lipstick

2013-03-29T18:05:00.004-04:00

Tarte Cosmetics recently released their Summer 2013 Collection, and I have two products from the collection to share with you! The Aqualillies for tarte Collection was inspired by America’s most glamorous synchronized swimming group, the Aqualillies, and this limited-edition collection includes seven splashproof products. You can view the press release for this collection here.

UPDATE: I just saw a coupon code on Tarte's Facebook page valid through March 30. Use code BUNNYLOVE for $10.00 off on any order from Tarte.com of $50.00 or more.

I picked up the Aqualillies for tarte Amazonian clay waterproof eye and cheek palette ($38.00) from QVC, and Tarte kindly sent me the Aqualillies for tarte limited-edition glamazon™ pure performance 12-hour lipstick in Timeless ($26.00). Both come boxed with a bright coral, turquoise, and gold foil vintage scallop graphic print. I love the packaging and design of many Tarte products, and this collection is no exception. The palette is big, measuring 4.5" in diameter. The lipstick case is made of wood, and it's imprinted in the same vibrant coral as the product itself.

Try to ignore the horror of the broken eyeshadow! QVC was kind enough to offer a replacement or partial refund, so rather than ship this one back and wait for a new one, I opted for a partial refund. It had plenty of bubble wrap on the top and sides, but none on the bottom of the shipping box. The palette contains 6 new eye shadow shades, bronzer, highlighter, and a limited-edition Amazonian clay 12-hour blush. Four of the shadows have a pearl finish, and two are matte. The palette is a well-made substantial plastic case with a mirror inside of the lid.

The blush is full sized and is called Captivating. I love the embossing--it adds a nice touch of elegance.

There's a plastic overlay that indicates all of the product names. The highlighter is a shimmering powder in Champagne, and the bronzer is a matter shade called Park Ave. Princess.

The lipstick is housed in classic Tarte fashion, using a wood overlay for the case. In addition to being cruelty-free, Tarte also uses recyclable or post-consumer recycled material for their packaging.

Timeless is a vivid coral color, based on the Aqualillies signature lip shade.

The eye shadows are soft and buttery, which makes them easy to blend and build up for more pigmentation if you want a bolder look. My swatches were done with just one pass of color, so if you want just a wash of color, a light application is all you need. But they build up nicely and can also be used wet for more intensity. The shades from L-R: Poolside, Sundeck (matte), Parasol, Barefoot, Bikini, and Hammock (matte). Check out Bikini--it's a duo chrome!

Here's a look at the blush, bronzer, and highlighter, again, using just one stroke of my fingertip to apply the color.

I am loving this shade of lipstick! Just the perfect bright coral for me because it's not too pink, not too orange. The glamazon lipsticks have a wonderful feel to them in that they are light and smooth, but they pack plenty of pigment. They're soft and buttery, and they wear very well.

I'm very happy with both of these products and I think the color range is perfect for Summer. The shadows have such a pretty shimmer, and it's nice to have a couple of matte shades as well. They work nicely for either a simple neutral look or a more intense look, depending on how you apply them. Add in the blush, bronzer, and highlighter, and you've got the perfect beachy summer look. A pop of coral on your lips and it's all the perfect combination. Now if it would just warm up so I could actually spend some time at the beach, it would be a perfect world! If you want to check out the entire collection, it is available at Tarte.com and Sephora. The lip gloss duo is exclusive to Ulta.

*Lipstick provided by Tarte for consideration.

Summer 2013 Aqualillies for tarte LE Collection

2013-03-21T21:11:00.000-04:00

Tarte Cosmetics introduces their Summer 2013 Aqualillies for tarte limited-edition collection (available for a sneak peek on tarte.com on Monday, March 25th) available at all retailers in April. Inspired by America’s most glamorous synchronized swimming group, the Aqualillies, this limited-edition collection includes seven splashproof products.

IT Cosmetics Hello Beautiful Kit is QVC's TSV March 18!

2013-03-17T22:43:00.000-04:00

QVC will be offering the IT Cosmetics Hello Beautiful 5-Piece Anti-Aging Color Collection Kit as their Today's Special Value (TSV) tomorrow, March 18. I recently received this kit to review, and I think it's a great package of products, particularly with a price of only $54.96 (also available on Easy Pay for 3 payments). I've been hearing a lot of good things about this brand, and after using the products for a couple of days, I can see why!

Here's the description of the kit from QVC:

With the Heavenly Luxe Buffing Airbrush Foundation Brush, swirl circles in Celebration Foundation to grab product. Buff into skin in circular motions.

Starting at the root of your lashes hold the Tightline Full Lash Length Black Primer Skinny Wand horizontally then wiggle and sweep through to the tips. For a more visible eyeliner effect, gently press the Tightline wand along the base of your lash line, filling in the gaps between your lashes. Move along the entire upper lash line for a beautiful eyeliner effect.

Starting at the base of your lashes, hold the Hello Lashes brush horizontally, then wiggle and sweep the brush up and through to the tips. Next, hold the brush vertically and push up your lashes. Finally, use the lash ball detailer to add definition and separation to your lower, inner, and outer corner lashes.

Apply Vitality Flush 4-in-1 Reviver Lip & Cheek Stain Stick to lips, cheeks, and any area you desire a beautiful sheer wash of vitality-filled color. To give your cheeks a pop of youthful color, gently pat and blend into the apples of your cheeks.

Includes:

0.30-oz Celebration Foundation
0.33-fl-oz Hello Lashes 5-in-1 Mascara in Black
0.118 fl oz Tightline Full Lash Length Primer in Black–exclusive to QVC until 9/18/2013
0.24-oz Vitality Flush Color Stain Stick in Je Ne Sais Quoi, a sheer pink–exclusive to QVC until 9/18/2013
Heavenly Luxe Buffing Airbrush Foundation Brush

The kit comes boxed, with the products packaged in a snapping plastic tray. There's also a descriptive brochure that explains the proper use of each product.

The Vitality Flush 4-in-1 Reviver Lip and Cheek Stain Stick in Je Ne Sais Quoi was love at first swipe for me. This rates high on the fun factor list for me, because it changes color right before your eyes. But it's more than fun, because it also gives a beautiful flush of color to my cheeks and lips.

It comes packaged in a metal twist up tube, and the product itself has a soft balm-like texture. I use this on my lips for that "just bitten" flush, and on my cheeks over the Celebration Foundation. I then set it with a very light touch of the foundation. It adds a bit of sheen to my cheeks, and the light dusting of foundation alleviates the feel of the balm, but still allows the color and the slight sheen to show through. It's like a tint or a light stain--very natural looking, and it feels nourishing on my face and my lips.

The Heavenly Luxe Buffing Airbrush Foundation Brush is a top quality tool. It's very soft and plush, but with more than 80,000 hairs, it's also very dense, allowing it to pick up an even amount of product. Using circular motions, I apply the Celebration Foundation with this brush, and the results are a smooth, even finish that looks about as flawless as I've even seen on my face. The combination of the foundation with the brush works so well, that I've been able to eliminate my need for concealer.

The Celebration Foundation is available in 5 shades: Fair, Light, Medium, Tan, and Rich. I received the Tan shade, and even though I would call myself Medium this time of year, it actually looks perfect on my skin.

This is a full coverage, hydrating powder foundation that contains plenty of beneficial ingredients to enhance your skin. Those ingredients include Peptides, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Silk, Anti-oxidants, Grapeseed, Olive, Hyaluronic Acid, Rose, Aloe, Niacin and Vitamins A, C, E. I've mentioned before that I love products with Hyaluronic Acid, so I was thrilled to see yet another product that has included this in the ingredients. My normal powder foundation in Lancome Dual Finish in Matte Amande III, and the Celebration Foundation reminds me of that finish-wise. It's more full coverage than the Lancome, so I don't need to build it up as I do with the Lancome.

Hello Lashes 5-in-One Mascara "is clinically proven to quadruple the volume of your lashes using a proprietary blend of lash-enhancing and conditioning ingredients." Of course I didn't read the directions initially, and my first thought was that this was a nice mascara--it added length and volume, and there was zero clumping, but I wasn't "wowed" by quad sized measures. Then I thought after the fact, that maybe I should read what they had to say about their product! In bold letters, the directions said to go vertical after going horizontal, and to do this using the ball at the end of the wand. That does make a difference, and a noticeable one at that! I often skip my lower lashes because the wand seems to make more of a mess, but the tiny bristles at the very end of the ball makes it a breeze, so that's another nice thing I like about this mascara.

The Tightline Full Lash Length Black Mascara Primer is noticeably different from all of my other lash primers because it's black. I always have to be very careful to coat my lashes well with mascara when using other primers, since they are all white. This is glossy and black, and you could get away with just using this and no mascara for a natural look. The brush on this is extremely thin, but it's able to define and coat your lashes from root to tip without a problem. To add a tightline effect, the brush can be gently pressed along the base of your lash line to fill in the gaps between your lashes. I wasn't so sure this would work as well as tightlining with the various eyeliners I use for such a look normally, but I was pleasantly surprised by how well it did work. This saves me some time too, so it's all good!

Here's a detailed look from IT Cosmetics on how to Tightline your eyes using this product:

I'm very happy with all of the products included in the kit, which is valued at $155.00. Be sure to check it out on QVC tomorrow at the special price of only $54.96. If you'd like to learn more about IT Cosmetics and see some of their other products in action, there will be 3 one hour shows tomorrow on QVC feauring the brand. Those shows will air at 12:00 AM, 10:00 AM, and 6:00 PM. You can also find IT Cosmetics on their website, and stay up to date with them on Twitter and Facebook.

Update on Free Nicole by OPI Polishes from Special K Brands

2013-03-14T13:18:00.000-04:00

Last month I posted about an upcoming offer from Kellogg's Special K and Nicole by OPI Nail polish, and I wanted to update letting you know that the Kellogg's web site now shows that offer as live. You just need to log in or register if you haven't already, here. This will allow you to enter promo codes from a variety of Kellogg's products that will earn you rewards, prizes, and coupons.

Click here to view the page for the Nicole by OPI promotion. There was some question after my original post if we could start collecting promo codes now, and I didn't know the answer at the time. This promotion is advertised as starting in April, so my guess is that the boxes could start appearing on shelves at any time now. Below is the information from the Kellogg's web site, so hopefully this helps to answer any questions.

The boxes will be clearly marked with the Nicole by OPI polishes (3 codes gets you 1 polish, 8 codes gets you 3 polishes). Also below, you'll find a long list of which products will be offering this promotion. Remember, this is available while supplies last, so be sure to enter your codes as soon as you purchase the product.

Participating Products

Special K® Blueberry Cereal
Special K® Chocolatey Delight Cereal
Special K® Cinnamon Pecan Cereal
Special K® Fruit & Yogurt Cereal
Special K® Multigrain Oats & Honey Cereal
Special K® Original Cereal
Special K® Protein Plus Cereal
Special K® Red Berries Cereal
Special K® Vanilla Almond Cereal

Special K® Blueberry Cereal Bars
Special K® Chocolatey Drizzle Cereal Bars
Special K® Chocolatey Pretzel Cereal Bars
Special K® Honey Nut Cereal Bars
Special K® Raspberry Cheesecake Cereal Bars
Special K® Strawberry Cereal Bars
Special K® Bars – Variety Pack

Special K® Pastry Crisps: Blueberry
Special K® Pastry Crisps: Brown Sugar Cinnamon
Special K® Pastry Crisps: Chocolatey Delight
Special K® Pastry Crisps: Strawberry

Special K™ Dark Chocolate Granola Bars

Special K® Multi-Grain Crackers
Special K® Savory Herb Crackers

Special K® Cheddar Cracker Chips
Special K® Sea Salt Cracker Chips
Special K® Sour Cream & Onion Cracker Chips
Special K® Southwest Ranch Cracker Chips

Special K® Butter Popcorn Chips
Special K® Sweet and Salty Popcorn Chips

Special K™ Chocolate Caramel Protein Meal Bar
Special K™ Chocolatey Chip Protein Meal Bar
Special K™ Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Meal Bar
Special K™ Double Chocolate Protein Meal Bar
Special K™ Strawberry Protein Meal Bar

Special K® Flatbread Breakfast Sandwich Ham, Egg and Cheese
Special K® Flatbread Breakfast Sandwich Sausage, Egg and Cheese
Special K® Flatbread Breakfast Sandwich Egg with Vegetables and Cheese

Special K® Red Berries Waffles

China Glaze Hologlam Official Press Release

2013-03-05T22:26:00.003-05:00

I just received the press release for the newest holographic collection from China Glaze, called Hologlam. My China Glaze OMG Collection is one of my favorites, so I'm anxious to see what this holographic collection looks like. The price seems high at $14.00 per bottle--that surprised me when I saw that. Nouveau Cheap is reporting that the collection has been spotted at Sally Beauty, where they are priced at $9.99 ($8.99 for Sally Beauty Card holders). Click here for her post, which also links to some great swatches. Are you looking forward to this collection?

China Glaze® Introduces 12 Illuminating Holographic Lacquers with Hologlam

Los Angeles, CA – (March 2013): 3…2…1…Blast off! Take your summer manicure out of this world with China Glaze® Hologlam, an all new 12-piece collection of shimmering holographic nail lacquers.

China Glaze® established itself as the leader in holographic nail lacquer with the 2007 OMG! collection, one of the most popular collections in the brands’ history. Fueled by that success and back by popular demand, China Glaze® Hologlam uses reflective, holographic particles to capture light and transform nails into amazing, ever-changing visual effects. With a strong linear finish whether indoor or shining bright in the sun, China Glaze® Hologlam bends and changes, creating an illuminated three-dimensional, traveling color effect across the nail.

The China Glaze® Hologlam collection features 12 futuristic shades, including:

Get Outta My Space: powdered violet
Astro-Hot: soft, baby pink
Infra-Red: warm, magenta pink
When Stars Collide: warm maroon
Not In This Galaxy: bright, warm coral
OMG A UFO: warm, moss green
Don’t Be A Luna-Tic: turquoise aqua
Sci-Fly By: light, silver blue
Take A Trek: cool, denim blue
Strap On Your Moonboots: midnight sky blue
Galactic Gray: warm, gunmetal
Cosmic Dust: silver metal

The China Glaze® Hologlam collection will be available in April 2013 at fine salons and beauty supply stores nationwide with an SRP of $14.

China Glaze is free of DBP, toluene, and added formaldehyde.

China Glaze nail lacquers are available through salons and professional beauty supply stores nationwide. For more information, please visit www.chinaglaze.com or follow China Glaze on Facebook (@ChinaGlaze), Twitter (@ChinaGlazeOfficial) and Pinterest (pinterest.com/chinaglaze).

China Glaze® is a division of American International Industries.

About American International Industries
For 42 years, AII has been the leading manufacturer and worldwide distributor of innovative, quality beauty and skin care products for men and women. Our product lines include Andrea, Ardell, Body Drench, Bye Bye Blemish, Checi, China Glaze, Clean + Easy, Clubman/Pinaud, Duo, European Secrets, EzFlow, Fright Night, Gena, GiGi, Gypsy Lash, IBD, It’s So Easy, Jeris-Lustray, LASH BeLONG, Nail Tek, No Tweeze/Micro Tweeze, 'N Rage, Poshe, Prolinc, RAW, Seche, SuperNail, Surgi-Care, Waterworks, Winning Nails, Woltra, Woody’s, and Youthair. For more information, visit our website: www.aiibeauty.com.

Hard Candy Bottle Shots Of All 45 New Polish Shades

2013-02-27T13:42:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I posted the press release from Hard Candy featuring their 45 new nail polish shades, and today I have full bottle photos from them. These show a better color representation than the original color chart, which I posted underneath each collection for polish name reference. I'm loving all of these, but Crush on Lava in the Crushed Chromes Collection and Piece of Papaya in the Itsy Glitzy Collection are easpecially appealing to me. Now the waiting and stalking of Walmart begins!

Candy Sprinkles Collection. Suspended in a clear top coat, shimmery flecks sparkle brilliantly with different shapes of shiny glitter. Candy Sprinkles is a fabulous top coat over any color.

Crushed Chrome Collection. Luxurious and timeless hues embellished with a golden textured finish. This collection boasts refinement and sophistication and is infused with a vivacious luster.

Crystal Confetti Collection. A unique collection based on artistic expression. Flourishing, adventurous, full coverage shades with various particle sizes and creative textures. Graffiti is revolutionary; it's an outlet to create public art. Now take this artistic and creative expression to your nails.

Glitteratzi Collection. The combination of confident opposites and intimate tonalities mixed with the right amount of sparkle creates enthusiasm for the vitality of life. The hues are natural and are becoming more evolved and colored. Tasteful tones with all the personality to satisfy every trend setter.

Itsy Glitzy Collection. Intense, illuminating, and incandescent hues saturated with the richest and most extreme mica and glitter. Inspired from the runway and now at your fingertips.

Sally Hansen Sugar Coat & Fuzzy Coat Coming in June

2013-02-26T18:24:00.000-05:00

Teen Vogue's Beauty & Health Director, Elaine Welteroth, just posted a sneak peek on Twitter of some texture polishes coming out this June from Sally Hansen. They're called Sugar Coat and Fuzzy Coat. 2013 is shaping up to be the year of texture finishes, wouldn't you agree?

Hard Candy Introduces 45 New Nail Polish Shades!

2013-02-26T14:54:00.000-05:00

Hard Candy is on top of it! 45 new shades coming to Walmart and they're priced at only $3.97 each. There will be 5 collections with 9 shades in each collection. Here's a look at the press information I just received. I've seen some swatches on line, so they are arriving in stores now. Of course my Walmart doesn't have them yet, but I'll keep checking. What do you think about this huge assortment of shades from Hard Candy?

Winter is wrapping up and color is beginning to pop everywhere. From the runways to the cosmetic aisles of Walmart the story is color and Hard Candy's new collection – set to roll out immediately – tells a tale of "Poppin Pigments" and shades that will have you "All Lid Up!"

What you will be interested in is the 45 (!!!) new shades of Nail Lacquer that Hard Candy is launching. 5 new collections. 9 shades in each. Glitter, Chrome, Rich tones – something for everyone! Not only will nail aficionados fall for the colors but they will also flip for the price of $3.97 each!

Crushed Chrome Collection. Luxurious and timeless hues embellished with a golden textured finish. This collection boasts refinement and sophistication and is infused with a vivacious luster.

Itsy Glitzy Collection. Intense, illuminating, and incandescent hues saturated with the richest and most extreme mica and glitter. Inspired from the runway and now at your fingertips.

Crystal Confetti Collection. A unique collection based on artistic expression. Flourishing, adventurous, full coverage shades with various particle sizes and creative textures. Graffiti is revolutionary; it's an outlet to create public art. Now take this artistic and creative expression to your nails.

Candy Sprinkles Collection. Suspended in a clear top coat, shimmery flecks sparkle brilliantly with different shapes of shiny glitter. Candy Sprinkles is a fabulous top coat over any color.

Glitteratzi Collection. The combination of confident opposites and intimate tonalities mixed with the right amount of sparkle creates enthusiasm for the vitality of life. The hues are natural and are becoming more evolved and colored. Tasteful tones with all the personality to satisfy every trend setter.

Reviva Labs Creating the Perfect (face) Canvas Giveaway!

2013-02-21T20:56:00.000-05:00

I've got a nice giveaway package from Reviva Labs that two of my followers will receive! The lovely Anna from Reviva Labs worked with me to select three of my favorite products, and all three work very well individually, or in combination to create the perfect canvas for your make up application. Their Rosewater Facial Spray, Hyaluronic Acid Serum, and Makeup Primer are all included in each prize package. All three of these products are repeat performers for me, and I'm seldom without a backup of any one of them! They all provide me with instant results, and with continued use, I notice that my skin becomes more restored, toned and hydrated. Let me tell you a little bit about each product, how I use them, and what I like about them.

Rosewater Facial Spray - 8 fl. oz./$9.00: This multi-purpose spray can be used to prep skin by hydrating, which helps your serums and moisturizers absorb better. It also refreshes your skin, sets your make up, can act as a mild toner, eliminate dry areas of skin, and more. This acts much the same for me as MAC Fix+ at a fraction of the cost. The mist is very fine, which makes it perfect for setting make up. I sometimes spray it directly on my buffing brush and work in small circular motions over my foundation. This gives my skin a dewier look than when I simply mist it over my face. Infused with distilled rosewater, aloe, herbs, mineral and hyaluronic acid, this simple yet powerful mist is a staple in my everyday beauty routine. I use it right out of the shower on my face, neck and décolletage. I use it again when I've finished applying my make up as a setting spray. I also use it at night directly after washing my face. I have used similar products and I can compare this to MAC Fix+ (3.4 fl. oz./$21.00) and Jurlique Rosewater Balancing Mist (3.3 fl. oz./$31.00). I prefer Reviva's product because I get the same results without spending nearly as much money, and I prefer a lightweight plastic bottle to Jurlique's glass bottle. If you click on the product links, you can view all of the ingredients.

Hyaluronic Acid Serum - 1 fl. oz./$22.00: This product helps your skin "gain and retain skin moisture" and this equates to a reduction of lines and creases. It plumps up facial skin tissue, and in addition to using it on my face as a serum, I also apply it to my lips for the same reasons. Hyaluronic acid has been a great discovery for me, and I now seek out products that contain this ingredient. The Rosewater Facial Spray also contains hyaluronic acid. I use this product as a serum directly after the Rosewater Facial Spray and before my moisturizer. It's a relatively thin clear fluid that absorbs quickly, and I don't notice a scent. It can also be used as a spot treatment for dry areas of skin, which I tend to get in the colder months. While I've used plenty of other facial serums, I haven't tried any others that are just hyaluronic acid, so I can't compare this to another product.

Makeup Primer - 1 fl. oz./$19.50: I think this product was my first venture into facial primers. I've since sampled and accumulated several more facial primers, but Reviva's continues to be my "go to" primer. Like many primers, it's a clear but slightly milky gel-like formula. I use a very small amount, so the 1 oz. bottle lasts quite a long time. I sometimes use it alone, or sometimes I apply it over my moisturizer. It glides on effortlessly, and feels like silk on my fingertips. It leaves my face looking lightly buffed, as if the fine lines and pores have been blurred and diminished, and the skin appears to have a satin or eggshell finish as opposed to a matte finish. Photoshop in a bottle? Maybe not that perfecting, but it's definitely an immediate noticeable improvement. It doesn't just improve the look of my skin's texture and finish, it also makes my foundation (powder or liquid) glide on more evenly, and keeps my make up in place until I remove it. I have combination skin and it does a great job of controlling the more oily T-Zone while still moisturizing and softening the drier areas of my face. It feels oily on my fingers, but oddly, it doesn't feel that way while I'm applying it. I use just a little bit--you may have to experiment before you find the right amount for you--all over my face before I apply my make up. I let it absorb for a couple of minutes before proceeding with my make up. I took a look at the ingredients in the Reviva product and compared it to some of the other primers I have. The Reviva product has a much simpler ingredient list, and I know what the ingredients are. I was amazed and surprised at the comparison. Take a look.

Reviva Labs Makeup Primer Ingredients: Cyclopentasiloxane, dimethicone, vitamin A palmitate, vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol), olive oil, coenzyme Q10, squalane.

Smashbox Photo Finish Ingredients: Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Dimethicone, Trisiloxane, Silica, Dimethicone/ Vinyldimethicone Crosspolymer, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Retinyl Palmitate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Extract, Propylene Glycol, Water (Aqua, Eau), Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract, Cola Acuminata Seed Extract, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract.

Too Faced Primed & Poreless Ingredients: Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Dimethiconol, Caprylic/Capric, Triglyceride, HDI/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crossploymer, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone, Crosspolymer, Camellia Oleifera Seed Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Silica, Tetrahexyldecyl, Ascorbate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Cyclodextrin, Cyclohexasiloxane, Retinol, Diacetyl Boldine, PPG-26-Buteth-26, Arctostaphylos Uva Ursi Leaf Extract, Morus Alba Bark Extract, Polysorbate 80, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Hedra Helix (Ivy) Extract, BHT, Cycloheptasiloxane, Tocopheryl Acetate, Retinyl Palmitate, Bioflavonoids, Ascorbyl, Palmitate, Allantoin, Mica CI 77019, Bismuth Oxychloride CI 77163, Chromium Oxide Greens CI 77288, Titanium Dioxide CI 77891, Iron Oxides CI 77491, Iron Oxides CI 77492, Iron Oxides CI 77499.

Becca Resurfacing Primer Ingredients: Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Isododecane, Hydrogenated Didecene, Tribehenin, Titanium Dioxide, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Glycerin, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Phenoxyethanol, Tropolone, Butylene Glycole, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Silica, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Disodium EDTA, Retinyl Pamitate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Enantia Chlorantha Bark Extract, Oleanolic Acid.

Laura Mercier Foundation Primer Radiance Ingredients: Water, Hydrogenated Didecene, Glycerin, Pvp, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Sorbitan Stearate, Mica (Ci 77019), Cetyl Alcohol, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, Propylene Glycol Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/ Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Propylene Glycol Isostearate, Glyceryl Isostearate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Boron Nitride, Squalane, Caprylyl Glycol, Oleth-25, Ceteth-25, Tocopherol Acetate, Polysorbate 60, Retinyl Palmitate, Tin Oxide, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Triethanolamine, Tropolone, Butylene Glycol, Plankton Extract. May Contain (+/-): Ci 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), Ci 77491 (Iron Oxide).

Korres Quercetin & Oak Age Reversing Primer Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Dicaprylyl Ether, Cetearyl Alcohol, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Glyceryl Stearate, Propanediol, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Alcohol, Glycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Limonene, Ethylhexylglycerin, Xanthan Gum, Cellulose Gum, Glycosphingolipids / Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Flour Lipids, Hordeum Vulgare Extract, Tocopherol, Spilanthes Acmella Flower Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Phytate, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Glyceryl Oleate, Quercetin Caprylate, Quercus Robur Bark Extract, Citral, Linalool.

Interesting, isn't it? I didn't plan on comparing all of those ingredients, but it does give a good representation of the simplicity you'll find in Reviva's products. Effective simplicity, which is something that becomes more and more important as we learn about the effects of ingredients in the products and foods that we're using. Reviva's products are paraben free and cruelty free.

Entry Details: Two winners will be chosen to receive this trio of my favorite Reviva Labs products. To enter, just leave your eMail in the comments below. If you aren't comfortable leaving your eMail, just mention that in the comments and be sure to check back on March 1 when I announce the winner. You can then contact me (mej0620@hotmail.com) with your information. U.S. entries only please, as prizes will be shipped to you directly from Reviva Labs. Contest ends 2/28/13 at midnight.

If you have any skin care questions, please feel free to leave those with your entry comment as well. Stephen Strassler, Reviva's founder, is an extremely knowledgeable skin care expert, and I would love to have him answer some of your questions. I can include the answers in my upcoming Reviva reviews. They are celebrating their 40th Anniversary this year, so congratulations to Reviva Labs on that milestone!

Sneak Peek: Barielle Sping 2013 Sweet Treats Collection

2013-02-16T11:20:00.002-05:00

Barielle will soon be releasing their Sweet Treats Collection for Spring 2013, and it contains 4 cremes and a creme with hidden shimmer. Below is a quick look at the bottles, and a close up of my initial favorite based on first impressions just out of the box, Blue Cotton Candy (teal creme with hidden shimmer).

L-R: Green Apple Chew, Banana Drop, Lilac Jelly Bean, Blue Cotton Candy, Orange Parfait.

*Products featured were furnished by the manufacturer or PR firm for consideration.

Misa Spring 2013 Collections: Prima Ballerina & I Do

2013-02-12T11:55:00.002-05:00

Misa is offering two collections this Spring, and they both consist of primarily soft and subtle shades. If you prefer brighter colors, don't despair, because their Summer collection Fresh and Fruity (Brights and Neons) will be released on April 15! Below is the press information for the Prima Ballerina Collection and the I Do Collection. Prima Ballerina is available now on Misa's site, and I Do will be available soon on their site. I see that Transdesign already has this collection up.

Nicole by OPI + Kellogg's Special K = Free Polishes for You!

2013-02-07T12:30:00.001-05:00

NICOLE BY OPI ANNOUNCES COLLABORATION WITH KELLOGG’S® SPECIAL K®

Three custom shades available with the purchase of eligible Special K products

• @NicoleByOPI and @SpecialKUS offers free bottle of lacquer with purchase of @SpecialKUS product in April.

Nicole by OPI announces that the brand will be producing three custom nail lacquer shades for Kellogg’s® Special K® beginning in April to pair with a campaign encouraging women to “show off your confidence with color.” Shoppers will have the opportunity to receive free full-size bottles of Nicole by OPI nail lacquer by signing up for the Kellogg’s Family Rewards program and entering codes from specially marked boxes of Special K products, while supplies last.

The three custom shades include: Challenge Red-y (crème red), Pros & Confidence (crème turquoise) and Be Ama-Zing! (crème pink).

With the purchase of three eligible Special K products, consumers will receive the shade Challenge Red-y. After submitting the purchase codes from eight eligible Special K products, consumers will receive all three lacquers – Challenge Red-y, Pros & Confidence and Be Ama-Zing!

“Nicole by OPI is delighted to partner with Kellogg’s to offer such an exciting reward to Special K consumers,” says Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, Nicole by OPI Executive VP & Artistic Director. “At our company, we always say that nail lacquer can change your look – and your outlook. In working with Kellogg’s Special K, we hope to inspire and motivate women who are striving for beauty both inside and out.”This promotion will be available in the US where Special K products are sold.

About Nicole by OPI:

Nicole by OPI offers a salon-quality range of bold, fashion-forward nail lacquers. The brand’s heritage is based in OPI’s well-established foundation of excellence in both color and technology, providing premium products to a broad range of consumers looking for trendsetting nail lacquers.

About Kellogg Company:

At Kellogg Company (NYSE: K), we are driven to enrich and delight the world through foods and brands that matter. With 2012 sales of $14.2 billion, Kellogg is the world’s leading cereal company; second largest producer of cookies, crackers and savory snacks; and a leading North American frozen foods company. Every day, our well-loved brands nourish families so they can flourish and thrive. These brands include Kellogg’s®, Keebler®, Special K®, Pringles®, Frosted Flakes®, Pop-Tarts®, Corn Flakes®, Rice Krispies®, Kashi®, Cheez-It®, Eggo®, Coco Pops®, Mini-Wheats®, and many more. To learn more about our responsible business leadership, foods that delight and how we strive to make a difference in our communities around the world, visit www.kelloggcompany.com.

New from Orly: Mega Pixel FX Collection

2013-02-06T19:23:00.000-05:00

Orly just posted this sneak peek picture on their Facebook page of an upcoming collection called Mega Pixel FX. Here's what they had to say about it: We promised and now we deliver to you the first look at our brand new collection MegaPixel FX. ORLY is bringing you six new shades of pixelated perfection. This innovative 3D formula provides a million pixels of glitter for a high-res multi dimensional finish. Bet you cant wait to slip on this sparkle.

No word of a release date yet, but aren't they pretty?!!

Beautysak.com 30% Discount Code

2013-02-01T16:07:00.003-05:00

My March issue of Lucky Magazine has a 30% off code for Beautysak.com! The only exclusions are Kai, Clarisonic and Jack Black. I believe the offer is valid from January 29 through April 1, 2013, and I just placed an order for some Deborah Lippmann and Kevyn Aucoin products. There is also free shipping over $50.00. Enter LUCKYBREAKS2 at checkout.

China Glaze Avant Garden Spring 2013

2013-01-24T19:43:00.000-05:00

China Glaze® Nail Lacquer Invites You to Visit the Avant Garden

Los Angeles (January 2012) – Spring is here and China Glaze® is blossoming with vibrant color with its new collection, Avant Garden. The delectable palette flows between soft hues and vibrant pops of color, offering an unconventional bouquet of cheerful and vivid shades. Take a stroll down the China Glaze® path, passing a bubbling brook of light and bright blues. Take in the view of the mossy green meadow and stop to enjoy the fragrant flowers of soft pink and white. Let Avant Garden take you away to a playful, romantic field of color and innovation this Spring.

The Avant Garden shades include:

* Budding Romance: moss green

* Sunday Funday: bright blue

* Fancy Pants: indigo with pink and purple shimmer

* Snap My Dragon: bright red with pink shimmer

* Passion for Petals: bright salmon-pink

* Mimosas Before Manis: coral with a light wash of shimmer

* Life is Rosy: blushed mauve

* Pink-ie Promise: iridescent baby pink

* Tart-y for the Party: light lavender creme

* Fade Into Hue: periwinkle creme

* Keep Calm, Paint On: sea foam green

* Dandy Lyin’ Around: shimmery vanilla icing

China Glaze® Avant Garden is also available in:

6 Piece Collection of “Blooming Brights”

6 Piece Collection of “Pastel Petals”

12 Piece 3D Counter Display

36 Piece Rack

China Glaze® Avant Garden will be available March 2013. Individual shades retail for $7; 6-piece collections retail for $42.

China Glaze® is free of DBP, toluene, and added formaldehyde.

China Glaze® nail lacquers are available through salons and professional beauty supply stores nationwide. For more information, please visit www.chinaglaze.com or follow China Glaze® on Facebook (@ChinaGlazeOfficlal), Twitter (@ChinaGlaze) and Pinterest (pinterest.com/chinaglaze).

China Glaze® is a division of American International Industries.

About American International Industries

For 42 years, AII has been the leading manufacturer and worldwide distributor of innovative, quality beauty and skin care products for men and women. Our product lines include Andrea, Ardell, Body Drench, Bye Bye Blemish, Checi, China Glaze, Clean + Easy, Clubman/Pinaud, Duo, European Secrets, EzFlow, Fright Night, Gena, GiGi, Gypsy Lash, IBD, It’s So Easy, Jeris-Lustray, LASH BeLONG, Nail Tek, No Tweeze/Micro Tweeze, 'N Rage, Poshe, Prolinc, RAW, Seche, SuperNail, Surgi-Care, Waterworks, Winning Nails, Woltra, Woody’s, and Youthair. For more information, visit our website: www.aiibeauty.com.

Coming Soon: Hard Candy Correction Crème

2013-01-23T13:45:00.000-05:00

2012 seemed to be the Year of the BB Cream invasion, and 2013 is shaping up to be the Year of the CC Cream! Hard Candy will be introducing their Correction Crème next month, and it will be available at Walmart and Walmart.com. Here's the full story from their press release:

Correction Crème is the newest staple in a woman’s skincare routine that can be used as a last step or on its own as an instant beautifier. Hard Candy -the go-to collection of edgy, fun, affordable cosmetics – is expanding its face category with the introduction of it’s own CC Crème in February 2013.

CC creams are the next generation of BB creams that are an all-in-one product designed to moisturize, prime, color correct, brighten, and even skins complexion. The point of difference in the CC cream is that they have additional coverage properties and color correcting benefits. Essentially, they are a merge of skin care and cosmetics.

The multi-functional CC crème aims to provide better skin coverage to treat and cover uneven skin tones more effectively than a BB Cream - plus the benefit of daily skin protection of broad spectrum SPF 15.

What does it do?

Hard Candy’s CC Crème provides five flawless functions:

1. Color corrects undertone with unique light reflecting optical pearls

2. Neutralizes skin tone by blurring blemishes, discolorations and dark spots

3. Brightens complexions with glowing air brushed finish

4. Evens skins texture for a smooth flawless appearance

5. Oil free crème moisturizes skin all day without clogging pores

How to use it:

Apply to clean skin. Squeeze a small amount of CC Crème onto palm and apply sparingly, starting from the center of the face using semi-circular movements. Continue to blend it well until it is invisible.

Innovative Technology:

Hand Candy's CC Crème is infused with inorganic pigments that neutralizes the under tone of skin resulting in a balanced complexion. The technology is further enhanced by the incorporation of complimentary titanated micas, which deliver a light reflection of color correcting properties, creating the appearance of even and flawless skin tone.

Special Ingredients:

Isostearyl Neopentanoate – A light, silky ester that improves product playtime for a more natural looking finish.

Polymethyl Methacrylate – A texture enhancer and soft focus powder that give a soft skin feel and matte application.

Micronized Pigments – Provide a tint of color to even out skin tone.

Color Correcting Pearls – Help even out skin tone and add radiance.

D-Panthenol – Hydrates and nourishes the skin.

Prorevive Blemish Balm Complex – An all-in-one product consisting of Lactobacillus Bulgaricus/White Willow Bark Extract Ferment Filtrate that provides anti-aging, conditioning, moisturizing, anti-wrinkle, protecting, and antioxidant properties.

Hard Candy’s CC Crème will be available in February 2013 exclusively at Walmart and walmart.com for $8 (1.5 oz) and comes in 4 shades: Fair, Light, Medium and Dark.

Blog Sale!

2013-01-14T13:36:00.002-05:00

I've updated my blog sale/shoppe page, so take a look if you're interested. My storage drawers are overflowing and there's much more to add, but I've been ~~lazy~~ busy! Click the "shoppe" page above, or click here.

December's Use It Up Roundup

2013-01-12T20:52:00.000-05:00

Here's a quick look at what I used up in December! I've started keeping track of this for myself so I can look back at some of my favorites, and some of my not so favorites. It gives me a great sense of empowerment to use something up for some reason, especially when I see the total accumulation. I also think it helps me to buy less when I have a goal to use some of what I already have first. Maybe you might find something of interest for yourself, or find some of the mini reviews for each product to be helpful.

Like each month, there were some hits and misses...some routine things I used up that I always replace so that I'm never without them, some products that I won't replace, and some products that I would buy again. I seem to have used up quite a few hair products this month, which is part of my goal: use up some of what I have before buying more!

J'adore Perfumed Bath & Shower Gel: This was a small bottle that was included in a gift set along with a full sized fragrance. They now make this in a creamy version rather than the clear gel version that I had, so I can't provide a link or price for this exact product. J'adore is a favorite fragrance of mine, so I would buy this again.

Plus White Xtra Whitening Toothpaste: A staple item for me, and I always have a spare tube at the ready to replace it. I use this after a regular toothpaste, and it really does make a difference for me. Retail: $3.37/3.5 oz.

Reviva Labs Hyaluronic Acid Serum: Another staple item for me. This was also in my used up November post, but I found another partially used one tucked away and used it up this month. This product introduced me to the world of hyaluronic acid, and I've since accumulated all kinds of products that contain HA. I use it on my face and lips to add and retain moisture, thereby plumping up fine lines. It also does a good job of firming and evening out my skin's texture. I only need one or two pumps per application, so a bottle lasts me about 2 months. Retail: $22.00/1 oz.

Bvlgari Omnia Coral Eau de Toilette: This was a sample size from Sephora, and I think it would be a nice scent for Summer. It's light, a little tropical, and not too sweet. It didn't last long on me though, and while I liked it, I didn't love it. The notes are Bergamot, Goji Berries, Hibiscus Flower, Water Lily, Pomegranate, and Cedar Wood. Retail: $64.00/1.35 oz.

Nature Made Multi for Her: I've always taken a multi vitamin, and I will continue to do so. Do they make a difference? I have no idea, but I like to think they do. I normally use this brand because Walgreens and Meijer offer bogo half off, and they're always easy to find. Retail: $10.99/90 tablets

Estee Lauder Idealist Pore Minimizing Skin Refinisher: I've rediscovered Estee Lauder's color cosmetics since Tom Pecheaux became their Creative Makeup Director a couple of years back. Spending so much time at the EL counter, I was bound to pick up some of their skin care along the way! This particular product feels wonderful on my skin, has a lovely scent, and does give my skin a nice look. I bought it in hopes of seeing some real reduction in the size of my pores though, and I didn't notice enough change in that area to contine spending this much money on it. I've had much better luck with Skinn's Pure Pore Cleanser, so I'll stick with that for now. Retail: $52.00/1 oz.

Sebastian Shaper Zero Gravity Hairspray: I picked this up on my way out of town to carry in my bag on a short trip, but I won't buy it again. Sebastian Shaper in the white can is my favorite hairspray, but this is nothing like that one. It holds well--too well, in fact. I just need a light spray around the front of my hair, and this was far too stiff of a hold for my liking! I paid $6.99 for this tiny can at Meijer, but I see it much cheaper on line. Retail: $3.95/1.5 oz.

CHI Silk Infusion: Another holy grail item for me. I've used this product for many years, and it performs consistently well for me. It adds shine, smoothness, protects from heat damage, and strengthens my hair to prevent further damage. I'm testing a similar product right now from Rusk, and it seems to be working pretty well for now, but I think in the end, I'll still prefer the CHI. Retail: $14.00/2 oz.

Rusk W8less Multi 12-in-1 Leave In Treatment: I just finished using my second bottle of this, and I would definitely buy it again. You can read my full review here. I'm trying to use up some similar products before I buy more, but I'm finding I need to use 2-3 different products to produce the same look that this one does on its own. Retail: $8.95/6 oz.

Nioxin Intense Therapy Diamax Thickening Xtrafusion Treatment: I was not graced with thick luxurious hair, and I have spent the better part of my life trying to find something that not only makes it look thicker, but actually makes it be thicker. This is the first product I've ever used that really does thicken my hair. It adds volume, it isn't sticky, there's far less hair going down the drain, and it's even producing new hair. I thought my flyaways were getting extremely noticeable a few months back, and I mentioned it to my hair stylist. She looked all around my hair and told me they weren't flyaways, but new hair. I had to use it for 2 months straight before I noticed new growth, but the look and feel of thicker hair was immediate. I paid retail at my salon for the first bottle ($50.00--yikes!), then I began ordering it from Amazon. It ranges everytime I've ordered it, but it's usually around $22.00-$28.00. The good news is, I'm testing a product from Pantene that seems to working exactly the same. I can't say that with total certainty yet, but so far, so good. This would allow me to have better accessibility because the Pantene is sold at chain retailers, and it's at least $5.00 less. Retail: $22.00/3.38 oz.

Rusk Designer Collection W8less Plus Hairspray: This isn't a bad product, but it makes my hair look a little dry and it also seems to diminish the shine slightly. So no, I doubt I'd use this product again. You can view my full review here. Retail: $10.95/10 oz.

That's it for the December Use It Up Roundup!

*Some products featured were furnished for consideration.

Flashback Friday: Lancome Extrait De Vie for Lips & Cheeks

2013-01-11T19:51:00.002-05:00

We all love to be in the know about the latest and greatest beauty products, but Flashback Friday will focus on older products I have in my stash. I don't know about you, but there are many products I have that are somewhat sentimental to me--much like songs or music, these products remind me of a certain time in my life. Today's flashback is circa 2001, and it's a limited edition product that Lancome offered. Extrait De Vie for Lips & Cheeks was probably my first experience with a color stain product.

This product is similar to Benetint, and it's a thin pinkish red liquid with a simple brush applicator. It's in a heavy but small glass bulb bottle that stands just over 2" in height. It's a pretty little piece to display on my vanity, but considering how much I wanted it at the time, it's just never gotten much use from me. Yet I hold on to it because it has sentimental value, for whatever reason. Or maybe I'm just preparing for my debut on the Hoarders show :)

I love the round bottle design and the simple elegance of the gold lettering and the Lancome rose logo.

Here's a quick swatch first applied, and then blotted. The "just bitten" or "flushed" look lasts for 4-5 hours, but as you can see around the edges, it does bleed a bit. I never used it as a cheek chain, just a lip stain.

It's funny that I can't remember what I had for dinner yesterday, but yet I completely recall this product and how I ended up getting it 12 years ago. I saw it in a magazine, and I HAD to have it! Our local counter sold out of it immediately, so I called the counter in South Bend, IN and they had one left. They said they would hold it for me, so I drove the 35 miles to get it. A sales associate was showing one to a customer when I arrived, and the other SA asked if she could help me. I told her what I wanted, and the other associate said that this was the last one. Whoever I spoke with on the phone never pulled the product. I was so disappointed, I really, really wanted this! Luckily, the other customer was just looking, not buying, so I ended up getting it. I can't recall what I paid for it though...I want to say maybe $24-$28? Can anyone else relate to hunting down a product that you want so much, only to seldom use it?!!

Do you hold on to older products for sentimental reasons? Obviously I do, and I also come across products I'd forgotten about that become new to me all over again. Of course there are products I rediscover that end up getting thrown out, so maybe I won't end up on Hoarders after all!

Walgreens Beauty Sample Box Free With $30.00 Purchase

2013-01-11T08:25:00.002-05:00

I received a coupon printout at the register from Walgreens recently, and wanted to share the information with you if you aren't already aware of it (which I wasn't!). All you need to do is spend $30.00 on beauty products, use your Balance Rewards Card, and you'll receive the printout which contains a coupon code for a free Beauty Sample Box.

Go to their web site, click the "Savings & Deals" link near the upper right corner of their home page located next to the Balance Rewards Card icon, then click the link that says "Learn More" under "Beauty Advisors + You". Follow the quick and easy instructions to enter your code and claim your prize. The current box, which I believe is the second box offered since they began this promotion last month, just became available today. I claimed mine, and it says that the offer is valid until January 25. The first box sold out quickly, so don't wait to redeem your code. You can also claim more than one box if you make multiple purchases and receive additional codes.

My understanding is that the promotion runs through February 14, and a third box will be introduced after this second box expires at the end of January.

Becca Bronzing Skin Perfector

2013-01-09T20:22:00.000-05:00

This past October, Becca Cosmetics announced a partnership with Sephora that would bring select products to Sephora stores. Becca Cosmetics will continue to introduce more products to Sephora stores throughout 2013, which will result in a total of 100 new items that round out BECCA’s four unique categories: Complexion, Perfectors, Tints and Ultimates. The brand will also be available in at least 50 Sephora inside JCPenney locations in March with plans to expand into 150 locations by the end of 2013. This is good news if you're already a Becca fan. If you haven't tried this brand yet, Sephora has an interactive merchandising display that delivers a Shade Match Guarantee™ that can help you find your perfect foundation shade. Their color cosmetics are also available at Sephora, as well as on Becca's website.

I have a review of Becca's Bronzing Skin Perfector for you today, which is a bronzing creme designed to smooth, even and perfect the skin while imparting a natural sun-kissed glow. This product retails for $36.00 and comes in a 1.35 fl. oz. tube.

This product comes in one universal shade, and at first glimpse it appears to be quite dark. It's lightweight, and glides easily onto the skin over moisturizer or foundation.

The first time I began to apply this, my initial thought was that it was way too dark. I dotted it over my moisturizer, blended it, and it wasn't too dark at all. It melts right into the skin and gives a very subtle and natural sun-kissed glow. I also worried that the tiny glitter-looking particles would present themselves as a glitter bomb on my face, but they aren't noticeable at all.

It's difficult to get this photographed in a way that it shows up, but I definitely notice the difference it makes when I wear it. Just below the arrows is where I've blended the product.

The formula is sheer but buildable, and it's recommended for all skin tones. I sometimes use it alone over a moisturizer then follow with a light dusting of translucent powder, or I use it over my powder foundation. It blends surprisingly well over the powder foundation. Depending on the look I'm going for, I may apply it over my entire face, or just apply it slightly under my cheek bones, down the bridge of my nose, and my on forehead.

What I love about this product as a bronzing aid is that there are no orange tones whatsoever. It's completely natural looking, and the tiny glitter blends right in, becoming nothing more than light-reflecting particles that diffuse light and add radiance, not sparkle.

Below is the description from Sephora:

What it is:
A universally flattering bronzing cream designed to smooth, even, and perfect the skin while imparting a natural sunkissed glow.

What it does:
This sheer bronzing cream imparts a radiant glow while visibly smoothing, clarifying, and perfecting the skin. Its versatile formula lends a healthy allover finish, blends with foundation or moisturizer to create a custom golden tint, or contours where the sun would naturally warm your face.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens

What else you need to know:
Infused with antioxidant vitamin E, this formula contains light-reflecting particles that diffuse light so your skin looks softer and younger while adding subtle warmth. This product does not contain fragrance, oil, or alcohol.

Have you tried anything from the Becca line? My first Becca purchase was their Pearl Skin Perfector about 10 years ago, and I've yet to try anything from them that I haven't liked. Sephora's F & F sale in November gave me a good excuse to add their Moonstone Skin Perfector and an Ultimate Colour Gloss in Hummingbird to my Becca collection. I received an eMail today announcing their newest product, Ultimate Matte Lip Colour. I think I may need to pick one of those up!

*Product featured was furnished for consideration.

Real Techniques Expert Face Brush

2013-01-08T11:06:00.001-05:00

The right tool can make a world of difference in your make up application, and I've found that the majority of times, my higher-end brushes perform better. Every now and again, I discover a brush that does a superior job, even though the price may lead you to believe otherwise. The Real Techiniques Expert Face Brush is a good example of a product that completely dispels the saying that you get what you pay for.

Priced at just $8.99, this brush is top quality and has rapidly become one of my favorites for applying my powder foundation. I seldom wear liquid foundation, because I never seem to be able to apply it correctly. I just ordered another Expert Face Brush to use solely for liquid foundation. I'm excited to think that maybe, just maybe, this will help in my application so I'll be able to wear more liquid foundations that look flawless.

The brush is aluminum, so it's lightweight. The tapered handle is comfortable to hold and easy to manage. The information on the packaging (below) recommends this brush for the application and blending of cream or liquid foundations, but don't think that's all it does! This multitasker works well for blush, bronzer, blending, and buffing.

The synthetic bristles are very dense and firm, but they are unbelievably soft. The shape of the brush head gives me great control and precision, especially around facial contours. I haven't noticed any shedding, and it's still just as soft as the day I bought it, even after a couple of washings.

This photo gives you a comparison as to the size. I find myself reaching for the Real Techniques brush over my MAC 187 and my Shiseido Foundation Brush, and I don't remember the last time I used my Sonia Kashuk Flat Top Brush for buffing.

This is a very impressive brush, and the price makes it even better. I still love my higher-end brushes, but this one works just as well and in some instances, better. It also saves me time because I can use one brush instead of two or three for various products. I'm especially happy with the way it "finishes" my powder foundation. My higher-end brushes always outperformed my lower-end brushes for powder application, because they almost eliminated any "powdery" look that I always seemed to get from lower-end brushes. There's no almost with the Real Techniques Brush. It completely eliminates any look of powder, so I don't feel like I always have to set it with a finishing spray for that more flawless look.

I don't have any other brushes from Real Techniques, so if you have any thoughts about them or any that you recommend, let me know in the comments! I picked mine up from Drugstore.com, but they're also available at Ulta, select Walmart stores, iHerb.com, and other etailers.

Two Words

2013-01-07T18:31:00.001-05:00

A little off-topic, but those two words are...

GO IRISH!!!

Sneak Peek Drugstore Haul: New Physicians Formula, L'Oreal, Rimmel, Maybelline, Revlon & More!

2013-01-06T14:44:00.000-05:00

Here's a quick look at my so-called failed drug store product search from this morning! It was a fail in that I went out looking for some of the new Fergie highlighters from Wet 'n' Wild, and I never did find them. But boy oh boy, did they have a lot of other irresistable bargains! Thankfully, between bogo, coupons, Wellness points, etc., it ended up being a great deal all the way around. I don't think all of these products are new, but now that they've cleared away all of the holiday offerings, this is the first time I've seen some of them. I'll be busy swatching this week now that my daughter will be back in school tomorrow after the long Holiday break.

Above: Physicians Formula has a trio of new Sexy Booster Sexy Glow products out, and I passed on the highlighter. I did pick up the glossy stain and glow blush though, because I couldn't resist the packaging! The rest is L'Oreal Visible Lift Color Lift blushes, Black Radiance Glossy Stains, Maybelline Whisper lip gloss, L'Oreal Colour Riche Shadow Quad, Rimmel's new Kate Moss matte lip sticks, and Maybelline's new Metal Color Tattoos.

Above: Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Eye Cream and Lash Serum Duo Kit, Maybelline Smokey Eye Quad, Revlon Photo Ready Primer & Eye Shadow palettes, and new polish shades from Massini/Studio M, Revlon, and Sally Hansen.

Here's a closer look at the Physicians Formula Sexy Booster Blush. It's not quite this peach in real life, but my camera didn't seem to understand that.

A closer look at the polishes.

There are tons of new drug store items out right now, aren't there? I need to hurry and find those Fergie highlighters so I don't end up picking up more things along the way! Any new drug store finds for you yet this year?