Product Reviewed: Urban Decay Baked Bronzer


Now that warmer weather is here, it's time for shorts, tank tops, sundresses, and.....pasty white winter skin?  I think not!  It's the time of year when bronzer is your best friend.   The Urban Decay bronzers are great because they come in three formulas (Baked-shimmer, Gilded-mucho shimmer, and Toasted-matte).  For an everyday look, I love the Toasted.  It looks very natural and wears all day.  I can apply it lightly or build it for a sun-kissed bronze goddess glow.  Each compact last forever!  I apply my Toasted generously, almost everyday, and have had it for months and months.  Can be used wet or dry, but I recommend dry for a more natural finish.


Tip:  Apply bronzer in the shape of a '3'--top of your forehead, under your cheek bones, and along your jaw--for a natural, slightly contoured look.


Another tip:  If you're going for a noticeably bronzed look, be sure to bronze your neck and  decollete for balance.

Product Reviewed: The Caudalie Skincare Line


I usually wouldn't review an entire skincare line in one post, but I feel that the issues I've had with Caudalie have been pervasive throughout the entire line.  There are several lines within the Caudalie brand (anti-aging, brightness, firming, purifying, etc.).  I've tried at least one product from each specific line, and have found the same problem with every product: the Caudalie products are EXTREMELY comedogenic! (aka clogging. yuck.)  I started using the Foaming Cleanser, which is designed for combination skin types.  Even the lighter foam formula clogged my pores tremendously.  As I started using the radiance moisturizers and serums, my skin started to get even worse.  To be fair, my skin is incredibly reactive.  However, I don't usually get blackheads all over, and I use anti-aging products regularly.  (In fact, I use anti-aging products obsessively.)  I had also purchased a milky cream cleanser (the Gentle Cleanser), but ended up returning it before even trying it.  Obviously, what works on one person's skin may not work on another's, and vice versa.  I've heard mixed reviews of Caudalie across the board; seems to be a love/hate brand.


Tip:  Caudalie's hand creams, body/spa products, and beauty elixir are absolutely worth checking out! 

Product Reviewed: Dior Liquid Eyeliner


Liquid eyeliner can be intimidating.  Proper application requires technique, practice, and the right product.  Dior's liquid liner pen takes some of the trickiness out of liquid liner, and helps you achieve a polished, sophisticated eye look.  (See my liner looks post for some great looks for every style!)  The click-up pen applicator gives you unbelievable control and precision.  The formula has a va-va-voom glossy finish subtle enough for day, yet sexy enough for night.  This liner comes in black and brown.  I love using this liner on clients because it allows for maximum control and makes it super easy to create a soft or dramatic eye look.


Tip:  Love false lashes?  Apply this liner after applying false lashes to camouflage the strip and complete your look.


Another tip:  In order to allow for the most control, I click the pen a few times and let the liquid product come out the top of the pen.  I then rub the excess product onto the back of my hand and dip the brush in the liquid.  This way, I know the product is evenly distributed on the brush and I get an even application. 

Product Reviewed: Origins Modern Friction Nature's Gentle Dermabrasion


I just recently started trying Origins products, and I am SO impressed!  (I have a feeling you'll be seeing a lot more Origins products reviewed as I continue to further explore the line.)  I'm starting off with this exfoliant because it has all the qualities you're looking for in a skin care product: affordability, effectiveness, and natural ingredients.  The Modern Friction Dermabrasion feels like a spa treatment, and offers many of the same benefits as popular facials.  This exfoliant is gentle yet effective, and offers both immediate and long-term benefits.  The gentle formula sloughs off dead skin cells to reveal a brighter, more even skin tone.  Fine lines and large pores are also diminished with regular use.  This product is ideal for all skin types.  Clinical results show that 94% of women tested would consider using Modern Friction instead of undergoing a spa microdermabrasion procedure.  (Now that's impressive!)  After just one use, my skin feels and looks brand spankin' new.  I can't wait to see the results over time!


Tip:  If you have more sensitive, apply Modern Friction to wet skin.  Otherwise, wet skin after applying product.  If you experience redness after use, don't worry.  The exfoliation causes blood to rush to the surface, giving you a flushed look.  Unless the redness becomes an irritation, it shouldn't be a problem.  Just don't use Modern Friction just before heading out the door for a big date.

Product Reviewed: Moroccan Oil Treatment


The Moroccan Oil hair care line is one of the first to popularize using oil to hydrate and treat all hair types.  This oil treatment is extremely versatile.  This oil can be used wet or dry, and blends well with other products.  Moroccan Oil protects, hydrates, and repairs hair.  (As a bonus, it also smells delicious!)  Used wet it will reduce your blow dry time; used dry it will add weightless shine.  Moroccan Oil's formula  is different than a lot of similar hair oils because its texture is non-greasy and it absorbs into hair strands rather than sitting topically and adding weight.


Tip: LESS IS MORE!  Especially when applying to dry hair, use Moroccan Oil sparingly.  A dime size amount will be sufficient for medium length hair.  Less for shorter or finer hair.  


Another Tip: When applying to dry hair, emulsify product in your hands and clap onto the ends of hair strands.


Yet Another Tip:  Apply product staring from ends of hair, and do not bring product all the way to the roots, or it can make hair look greasy or dirty.

Product Reviewed: Perricone's No Foundation Foundation


Dr. Perricone's No Foundation Foundation is essentially the original gangster of BB Creams.  Launched before the BB Cream trend picked up, this foundation faker combines skin care with light coverage to give your skin both immediate and long term TLC.  The color of this product is Oompa Loompa orange, so it's not great to wear by itself.  I like it best as a primer to give a bit of warmth under a powder foundation.  Especially for us fair skin gals, it's important to apply this product lightly, keeping coverage sheer and blending out the color.  The skin care benefits definitely make this a great product if you're looking for a little coverage/warmth.  DMAE (think Spanx for your skin), Alpha Lipoic Acid, and Vitamin C Ester provide anti-aging and skin tone correcting benefits.  


Tip: If you're fair, apply before powder as a primer, or mix in with your moisturizer  or primer  for the most natural looking color.

Product Reviewed: Kate Somerville's DermalQuench Liquid Lift Advanced Wrinkle Treatment


So at first I was a little creeped out by this product.  (C'mon, it looks like a baby alien!)  I was hesitant to try anything aerosol, and the price point was up there.  However, I put on my big girl pants and decided to try this crazy new innovation.  And was it worth it?  Drum roll, please...YES!  I was pleasantly surprised by how this product worked.  At first it smelled a little odd (aerosol sure ain't perfume), but the scent dissipates relatively quickly.  Kate packs a ton of innovative ingredient combinations into this skin care treatment, and it promises both instant a long-term improvement in skin elasticity, firmness, and texture.    After just one use, skin's moisture will increase by 130%.   I've been using the DermalQuench for only three days (am and pm) and my skin is absolutely softer and more even.  A great new product for the skin care junkie who's really looking to invest in the latest innovation.


Tip: Application is definitely unique.  Shake well before use.  Apply one stripe of product horizontally across forehead.  Apply 3 stripes across each cheek.  Rub in so that all of your face is covered equally.  Let absorb before applying other product.


Another tip:  Kate isn't too clear as to where in your skin care regimen the DermalQuench fits in.  Since it's so light and absorbs so nicely I've been using it before my serum.  It's been working great for me, but again, not sure what Kate had in mind.


*UPDATE*  I just finished up my deluxe trial size (which is a little less than half of the full size product), and it lasted me less than a week.  I can only guesstimate, but I'd say the full size would last less than four weeks.  At $95, that is pricey!  If you have the means, go ahead an indulge.  But for those of us on a beauty budget, this is not going to be a cost effective purchase. 

Product Reviewed: Caudalie Hand and Nail Cream


If you're looking for a small indulgence to treat yourself, look no further than Caudalie's Hand and Nail Cream. At $19, it has a higher price point than most hand creams, but it's a little luxury you'll definitely appreciate.  The rich texture of the creams smooths onto hands and cuticles, leaving them feeling soft and nourished.  Packed with antioxidant grapevine polyphenols and Vinolevure, this cream provides benefits anti-aging benefits unlike any other!  This is absolutely my go-to hand cream to keep my hands looking and feeling great.  (Sounds weird, but I have actually received compliments on how soft my hands are...people notice these things.)  I keep a full size tube in my desk, and a travel size in my purse.  Makes a great gift, too!


Tip:  Think your hands don't need anti-aging products?  Wrong!  You're hands are one of the most visible places where aging shows (think about how often you shake hands when you meet new people!).

Product Reviewed: Ole Henriksen's Truth Revealed Super Creme


The whole Ole Henriksen skin care line is an exceptional line of natural, effective skin products.    The Truth Creme is part of Ole's brightening anti-aging Truth line.  Truth Revealed is a day cream with an SPF 15.  Complex fatty acids combat aging and redness, add luminescence, hydrate, and smooth.  This cream will tighten and address fine lines.  It's creamy texture applies nicely and absorbs instantly.  I notice my skin stays hydrated and even-toned all day long.  Because it absorbs and doesn't leave any sticky texture, I can apply my make up right away after using the cream.  The SPF is great, as it protect from sun damage which is one of the leading causes of aging skin.  Great for all skin types!


Tip:  Use in conjunction with Ole's Truth Serum for added glow and collagen boosting properties.

Product Reviewed: MAKE UP FOR EVER's Rouge Artist Natural


MUFE's newest lipstick line is the follow up to the ever popular Rouge Artist Intense collection of lipsticks.  The Rouge Artist Natural comes in 18 beautiful shades, and the colors are much more wearable than some of the bold pigments of the Intense line.  (If you love MUFE, but aren't ready to commit to the  'ta-da!' colors of their other lipsticks, this is the PERFECT lipstick line for you!)  The Rouge Artist Natural lipsticks comes in either satin or pearly finished, and delivers sheer, smooth color with a delightfully soft texture.  The enriched formula keeps lips hydrated for up to either hours.  I was particularly impressed with the staying power of this lipstick, as it lasted longer than many other "long wearing" formulas I've tried.  The translucent colors offer a classy, elegant touch of color without being overpowering.  This lipstick line is the perfect choice for adding a soft pop of color to your spring make up wardrobe!


Tip:  The Rouge Artist Natural collection is available only at Sephora and sephora.com, so you can be the first of your friends to get a piece of this exclusive product launch!

Product Reviewed: NARS Illuminator

Is there anyone out there who doesn't want a glowing, luminous complexion?   I didn't think so.  Especially as Spring approaches, everyone is clamoring to get their hands on the season's hottest glow-inducing products.  Call 'em what you will: highlighters, illuminators, luminizers...they all do the same thing.  NARS makes a line of illuminators that have become best sellers in this product category.  These liquid illuminators are sheer  and shimmery, and come in four shades (Copacabana, Orgasm, Super Orgasm, and Laguna.)  Each tube contains 1.1 oz, which is enough to last you a while!  (Less is more with these guys!)   Dab these liquids around the eyes in a C-shape, above your top lip, and down the bridge of your nose for a perfectly lit look.   The NARS Illuminators are not my favorite (I prefer the texture of Benefit's High Beam or Smashbox's Photo Op Under Eye Brightener--two other best-sellers); but they are uber-popular with clients and will definitely give you look a gorgeous finish.

Tip: Although these NARS Illuminators are super popular, they do have one problem: they tend to smudge or remove your foundation.  No bueno.  Mix these shades with your liquid foundation/tinted moisturizer for an all-over glow, or apply the Illuminator before your foundation.  This latter technique is called 'underpainting,' and you want to make sure you use a heavier application of the illuminator so that it will show through.

Another tip: Since these Illuminators come in four shades, you can either pick one that fits your skin tone and desired look, mix two to achieve a custom shade, or use even them to contour!

Hungry for more hair care tips?  Check out the link below to see common hair care myths debunked!  

Common Hair Care Myths

Product Reviewed: Phyto Phytovolume Maximizing Volume Shampoo


This volumizing shampoo gives life and lift to fine, limp hair without adding dullness or product build-up.  Phyto's volumizing formula increases the moisture levels in each hair strand in order to plump and swell hair for a fuller appearance.  Many volume shampoos leave a residue or create a build-up of product over time, but this shampoo is light enough to use every day.  I have lots of fine hair, so I am always struggling to add lift and body.  Often times, volumizing products leave my hair looking greasy.  Phyto's shampoo gave me noticeable volume without making my hair look greasy or product-heavy.


Tip:  This shampoo does not have the creamy consistency of most shampoos, and is incredibly watery.  To use, pour shampoo into the bottle cap and pour cap onto your hair.  If you pour shampoo into your hands, you'll end up losing a lot of product.  This stuff ain't cheap, so make sure you get every drop on your head and not down the drain!


Another tip:  This tip goes for any shampoos:  apply shampoo to the root of your hair and massage into scalp.  Using your fingers, draw product from roots down to the end of each strand so your hair is completely covered.  The opposite goes for conditioners: start conditioning the ends of your hair and work product gradually up toward root.

Liner overload!  Lots liner looks from subtle to dramatic.  These looks all use liquid liner, but some of the more natural looks could also be achieved using pencil.  (Liquid liner usually has a glossy finish, whereas most pencils finish matte.  Pencil liner is softer, while liquid can be bolder.)  Play around with liner to see what look best compliments your eye shape and personal style.  Pair a bold liner with toned-down blush and minimal shadow.  Complete the look with a classic red lip.  Hello, pin-up girl!

Product Reviewed: Hourglass Extreme Sheen Lip Gloss, Child


It's no secret--I looove me some Hourglass!  This gloss is no exception.  The whole line of Extreme Sheen glosses have a great texture--no sticky, tacky feeling.  The colors wear beautifully, and the ingredients keep lips  hydrated and protected.  The hydrating formula prevents chapping or cracking even in the nastiest weather.  Vitamin E likewise protects against environmental damage.  Child is the perfect color for wearing alone or layering with lip stick or lip liner.  By itself, Child is the perfect soft, nude lip.  Worn over other lip products, Child adds sheen and a soft hint of color.  Glam, casual, sexy...you can definitely use this gloss for all occasions and looks.


Tip:  Hourglass recently upgraded the applicator wand on this gloss; but if you have one with the older, clumsier applicator use a lip wand to get an even application.

Product Reviewed: Aveda Inner Light Mineral Duo Foundation


I always try to support natural, eco-friendly brands whenever possible, but I am not willing to sacrifice quality in order to do so.   Aveda makes it easy to support natural brands while getting phenomenal products by providing a great selection of quality, natural and earth-friendly hair, skin, and cosmetic products.  The Inner Light Mineral Powder provides full coverage  without looking cakey (pretty impressive for a powder!)  It can be used wet or dry.  I have only tried using it dry because I need the fuller coverage it provides.  Inner Light Powder is ideal for oily-to-combination skin types, but doesn't read too dry on normal-to-dry skins.  This powder gives your skin a boost of illumination, allowing for full-coverage application without looking flat or powdery.  As a bonus, Aveda uses refillable compacts to save packaging.


Tip: For dry skin types, or for added coverage without added weight, apply Aveda's Inner Light Tinted Moisturizer before applying this mineral powder.  Instant flawless.

A woman's search for the perfect shade of lipstick is akin to the epic quest for the holy grail.  So many shades, textures, and brands--it can be overwhelming!   The article below sheds some light on how men perceive our lipstick choices.  Not necessarily the most fashion-forward reference group, but it's amusing to see how differently guys see our tastes and trends.  Enjoy!


Click below to check it out:
What do men think of your lipstick color

Product Reviewed: REN Glycol Lactic Skin Renewal Peel Mask


Skincare junkies, take notice!  If you have not yet tried the REN skincare line, this review is about to change your life.  You're welcome in advance.  The Glycol Lactic Mask is one of the brand's best-selling items, and would make a great addition to almost any skin care regimen.  Although the mask is specifically recommended for congested (aka post-blemish, clogged pores, etc) and mature skin types, this mask is gentle yet potent enough for just about anyone.  The brand doesn't recommend this mask for sensitive skins (they have another mask specially formulated for sensitivity); but my sensitive skin has never had any problem!  REN is an all-natural line, and this mask uses four fruit acids to exfoliate and leave skin firmer, more even, and glowing.  Use this mask several times a week, and I bet you'll be loving your skin more than ever!


Tip:  Try using this mask in conjunction with REN's Pore Minimizing Detox Mask.  Apply the Detox mask first.  Let dry and wash off.  Pat skin dry with a face cloth, and then apply the Glycol Lactic Mask for 10 minutes.  Rinse and viola!  At-home facial!

Product Reviewed: Tarte Femme Naturale Eyeshadow Palette


Tarte eye shadows are totally underrated.  While its most known for its unbelievable blushes, the eye shadows truly deserve more attention.  This palette in particular provides gorgeous selection of soft colors in both matte and shimmer finishes.  The shadows are not as highly pigmented as an Urban Decay or Too Faced type of shadow, but offer gorgeous hues that last from coffee time to cocktail hour.  This particular palette offers soft neutral essentials for a classic look, but many of Tarte's other palettes offer shadows ranging from uber bright to smoky and sultry.  The texture of Tarte's shadows are slightly more powdery than a lot of other brands which can be a drawback for some users who like a creamier texture.   The shadows themselves are packed with vitamins and minerals designed to soften and protect the skin.  The Femme Naturale Palette comes with a double-ended green/purple eyeliner and double ended brush.  My brush broke within several uses, and the liner isn't great either.  The one real bonus that comes with this product is a deluxe sample size of Tarte's eyelid primer, which is a great primer.  


Tip: To get the most pigmented looks out of Tarte's shadows, apply by pressing and patting the shadows onto the lid as opposed to sweeping the shadows back and forth.

Product Reviewed: Lancome Doll Lashes


I'm not usually a fan of Lancome mascaras, but Doll Lashes is one of my new favorite mascaras.  The formula lengthens lashes and adds volume without clumping.  The conical brush grabs every lashes for defined, fanned-out lashes.  The thinner end of the brush gets those hard-to-reach lashes at the inner and outer corner of your lash line.  The formula is free of synthetic fragrances and dyes, as well as sulfates and parabens.  Reviews from clients I've worked with have been mixed--some feel as though they have to apply several coats before seeing results--but again, I've been very impressed by Doll Lashes.  I would absolutely purchase this mascara again!


Tip:  Apply lash primer before applying Doll Lashes for added drama.  Wiggle the mascara wand at the base of your lashes for increased volume. (These tips work for most mascaras!)

Product Reviewed: Temptu Airbrush System


Although there is definitely a group of Temptu lovers out there, I can't say I am part of that group.  At close to $300 for the system, Temptu is nothing more than an overpriced gimmick to me.  The idea behind the system is that it provides a fast and easy way to get an airbrushed make up look at home. Temptu promises that it will give you a naturally perfected look; provide waterproof, long-lasting coverage; and reduce your make up application time.   In reality, I've found that Temptu gives splotchy, uneven coverage (thus increasing the time it takes to get a natural look); and takes forever to dry and set.  The expensive system and pods will end up costing you much more than traditional make up, and provides inferior quality.  


Even after deciding that Temptu was not for me I still used on on clients (girls love the idea of being "airbrushed"), and still found that Temptu wasn't living up to its promises.  With the uneven coverage and constantly-clogging machine, foundation application took forever!  In the long run the system will cost you a lot of money, time, and frustration.  Did I mention the system regularly malfunctions and requires troubleshooting?  Stick with the make up you've been using for years, and skip this gimmick!


Tip: I had a chance to play with the Temptu Pro model, and have heard great things about this version.  I don't know enough to give a fair review as I've only used it once, but it could be worth checking out if you're committed to the idea of airbrush make up!

Product Reviewed: Amore Pacific Treatment Cleansing Foam


On the other end of the spectrum is Amore Pacific's Treatment Cleansing Foam.  ($50 for a cleanser?! Eeek!)  This little nugget is the Rolls Royce of cleansers--smooth, luxurious, and nearly twice the price of the competition.  However, if you're looking to splurge on a new product this is a great way to go.  The Treatment Cleansing Foam has micro-spheres of Vitamin E which dissolve as you massage the cleanser into the skin.  The foamy lather makes this a nice cleanser to use with your Clarisonic (I swear, even my Clarisonic brush head was cleaner after I started using this cleanser....it's that good.)  I also appreciate that Amore Pacific doesn't test on animals and makes every effort to be environmentally conscious.  So yeah, it's pricey, but it's an indulgence your skin will surely appreciate.  The way I see it, it's less than the price of even one facial and you get to use it every day!  (Did I mention I have this skill/problem that allows me to justify almost any purchase? Hmm...)


Tip: A little goes a loooong way.  Start with less than you'd think you need.


Another tip: Amore Pacific says this Cleansing Foam also doubles as a shaving cream, if there's a guy in your life who likes to indulge.

Product Reviewed: First Aid Beauty Cleanser


Tired of paying too much for quality skin care?  Put down the credit card, and get yourself some First Aid Beauty!  This cleanser is just as good, if not better, than many of the expensive brands' and at less than half the price of some.  FAB's cleanser is creamy, gentle, and packed with great ingredients.  Allotoin and Aloe leaf extract sooth sensitive skins so well that this cleanser is especially recommended for sensitive skins.  Glycerin moisturizes dehydrated skin (especially at this time of year, skin can always use a little extra TLC and hydration).  Protects skin with the FAB Antioxidant Booster. Oh yeah, and forget about the make up remover, the FAB cleanser not only hydrates and soothes, but also removes your make up! Talk about multi-tasking! This is a great cleanser for all skin types and all budgets.  Use the money you save to buy new make up in celebration of your newly renewed skin! 


Tip:  For extra dehydrated skin, use this cleanser with FAB's Ultra Repair Cream.  The whole line is reasonably priced, and this cream can be used on face and body. (Looks like the cleanser's not the only multi-tasker in this FAB familia!)

Product Reviewed: Sephora Classic Mineral Powder Brush


This brush is somewhat life changing.  It's an amazing brush for just about any complexion product.  It's designed to worked with pressed powders (everything from bronzer, blush, foundation), but it also works well with loose powder if you want a heavier coverage.  My favorite way to use this brush is with liquid foundation.  It buffs on liquid and gives an amazing finish.  Regardless of what product you're applying, blend into your skin in circular motions for the most airbrushed finish.  Synthetic bristles are super soft (and super clean--hypoallergenic and antibacterial--sensitive and acne-prone clients, take note!).  The synthetic hairs will not absorb any of your product.  If i could only have one complexion brush (I hope it never comes to that), this brush would be my pick.


Tip: Because the bristles are so densely packed, you'll want to keep this brush really nice and clean.  Clean with anti-bacterial brush cleaner after every use and use brush shampoo once a week.

Product Reviewed: Tarte multiplEYE Lash Enhancer


I'm always wary of lash growth serums.  They can have some pretty nasty side effects (irritation, rash, permanent pigment darkening...yikes!)  I trusted Tarte because I love the brand and it uses all natural ingredients in its lash enhancer.  multiplEYE promises no side effects, and states that 100% of users saw results within a 6 week clinical study.  I had zero sensitivity, and have definitely seen results.  (A coworker of mine did experience some sensitivity and stopped using multiplEYE so it's different for everyone.)   I've already bought a second one so I'll be ready when the first one runs out.  


Tip: multiplEYE will sting if you get it in your eye.  Instead of blinking on shutting your eye (which will make the stinging worse) just leave your eve open and the stinging should go away.  (Learn from my mistake, rubbing your eye will make things worse!)  Worst case, put in some eye drops.

Product Review: Josie Maran Color/Blush Stick


I wanted to love this product, I really did.  I like the idea of natural products, and Josie Maran's line has a great selection of natural options.  This product is also infused with Argan Oil, an ingredient which offers a slew of skin care benefits.  Despite all this greatness, the product did not live up to my hopes.  The product applied unevenly, felt stickly, and mixed with my foundation and bronzer to look muddy.  No bueno.  However, this product has received an Allure Editor's Choice Award, so apparently someone out there is having better luck.  I might give this another try and update, but I was so unimpressed that it may just end up living in my basket of extra products. :/

Product Review: Make Up Forever HD Foundation


If the MUFE HD Foundation and I were in a Facebook relationship, it would be listed as "It's Complicated."  I LOVE this foundation on clients.  I use it on bridal parties, sixteenth birthday parties, everything.  And it always looks flawless.  That being said, I do not love this foundation on me.  I can't figure out why, but it just doesn't wear as well on me.  My skin seems to absorb the makeup, leaving me with less coverage in certain areas.  This is still a go-to foundation for events and client, because it just looks so beautiful and lasts all day/night.  Another benefit is that MUFE has 26 shades of the HD foundation, including both pretty fair and pretty deep skin tones...finally!


Tip:  Apply with MUFE kabuki brush, and use with MUFE primer and setting powder. (Warning: Use setting powder sparingly as it can read white in photos if it's over applied.)

Product Review: Benefit Erase Paste


This brightening concealer is ideal for hiding under eye darkness or hyperpigmentation.  It wears beatifully, but make sure you apply with a brush because the texture can read a little heavy if it is not buffed and blended well.  Erase Paste comes in three shades (fair, medium, deep).  It's supposed to have neutral undertones, but I notice a bit of a pink/orange undertone.  This is great is you're concealing under eye circles, as it will neutralize any blueish dark circles.  I fall in and out of love with this product, but it's a consistent favorite with clients.


Tip: Apply with an Airbrush Concealer brush by Sephora Collection Pro before applying foundation to keep it from looking heavy.


Tip: Can be applied on the eyelid as a shadow primer, and will also concealer any veins or blueish undertones on the lid.  (Again, definitely use that brush, because you definitely don't want a heavy texture underneath shadows!)

Product Review: Murad Clarifying Mask


This sulfur mask is part of Murad's acne line, but can be used on all skin types.  The mask is designed to be used several times a week as an allover face treatment.  Sulfur and clay will dry out any active blemishes, and are gentle enough for sensitive skin.  Because the mask can be drying, be sure to use in conjunction with a moisturizer (stay oil-free if you're breakout prone).  As with any acne product, it's a matter of finding what regimen works for you; but I've had great results using this mask as an overnight spot treatment, and I've heard from many clients who swear by it as well!


Tip:  Apply as a spot treatment (just on blemishes) and leave on overnight.  Wash off in the morning.  It reduces redness, swelling, and decreases the lifespan of your pimples.  Yay!

Product Review: Hourglass Immaculate Liquid Powder Foundation


This foundation is a truly full-coverage foundation, and is a Godsend for oily/combination skin type.  Anti-ageing ingredients (phytostem edelweiss and lavandox) promise to reduce the appearance of wrinkles by 11% after 24 hours of wear, and by 15% after 20 days of use.  I don't have much in term of wrinkles, but I am loving the coverage and matte finish.  I'm all about preventative use of anti-ageing products, so I love that I can get amazing coverage while treating my skin to a makeup that actually helps improve skin's appearance over time. 


Only problem I have--and this is an issue I have with all my Hourglass products that come in a pump bottle--is that the pump can sometimes get stuck and take a while to produce product.  No bueno when I'm rushing out the door in the morning!  Friends of mine who have played with this product complain that there isn't a great selection of colors for very fair or very deep skin tones (sadly, true of most foundations.)  This is definitely going to be my go-to summer foundation!


Tip:  Try with Hourglass' Veil Mineral Primer.  It'll give you unbeatable staying power (hello, water resistant!), and has an SPF 15 to protect your skin.  The texture is SUPER luxurious--no wonder it's always a best seller!