Product Reviewed: Hourglass Hidden Corrective Concealer


I feel like I just had a fight with a best friend.  I love the Hourglass line.  I assumed I love the concealer as much as the rest of the Hourglass complexion collection.  I was wrong.  After reading about all the benefits of this concealer, I was excited to give it a try myself.  Not only is this concealer free of the usual suspects (parabens, sulfates, and synthetics); but it also contains Vitamin E to soften and protect skin.  Sounds great, right?  Not so fast...this concealer is nice and creamy, but doesn't provide exceptional coverage.  Not only is the cover not what I expected, the Hidden concealer did provide much in terms of staying-power either.  I had to reapply the concealer multiple times throughout the day and never felt confident in the coverage provided.  Sorry, Hourglass...I hope we can still be friends, but I gotta say this concealer is a let down.


Tip: Apply concealer after foundation.  Using a concealer brush (or your finger) pat concealer onto areas of concern, and blend away the edges.

Product Reviewed: Tarte 12-Hour Full Coverage Foundation


Dear Tarte...will you marry me?  I want to spend the rest of my life with this brand.  The newest addition to the Tarte foundation family is no exception.  This full-coverage foundation is great for all skin types and offers a natural-looking full coverage.  Of course, the 12-hour foundation contains the brand's signature ingredient, Amazonian Clay, which adapts to provide maximum benefits for any and all skin types.  The 12-hour foundation wears like a champ.  It's survived long work days, late nights, and intense workouts.   The formula is sulfate, synthetic, and paraben free; and addresses skin concerns such as pore size, unevenness, and texture.  Seriously, Tarte, you are all I've ever dreamed of in a brand.


Tip:  Apply this foundation with Tarte's Airbrush Finish Bamboo Foundation Brush (pictured above) for an absolutely velvety smooth perfected finish.  Doesn't hurt that the brush feels utterly delightful as it caresses your face.  (Think I'm exaggerating?  Give this brush a try, and see if it's uber-soft bristles don't make you swoon.) 

Product Reviewed: Anastasia Highlighting Brow Kit


Anastasia is undeniably THE go-to brow line.  Founder Anastasia has been shaping the brows of celebrities for years.  Her product line allows you to achieve salon-quality shaping at home.  This brow kit showcases what Anastasia does best: shape/color and highlight.  The brow powder trio fits all shades so you'll always look natural.  (Bye-bye mismatched brows!)  The highlighting trio contains silver, gold, and rose shimmer powders that will compliment any eye shadow look.  


I much prefer using powder to pencil--it gives more control and precision, and also provides a more natural texture.  Set this powder with a clear gel (Anastasia's Clear Brow Gel gives great hold without any crunchiness or white residue.), and you'll be set from coffee to cocktails!


The highlight powders add the perfect amount of shimmer to lift brows and brighten the eye area.  Adding shimmer just under the brow will make any dramatic eye look more wearable by balancing darker shadows. Shimmer can also be applied just above the outer half of your brow, or into the inner corner of your eye, to add additional brightness.


Tip: To give brows the most natural look, use a slightly darker powder on outer half of the brow, and a slightly lighter shade to fill in the inner half.  This will mimic the natural shading of brows.


Another Tip: If you're not a shimmer kind of gal, try using a lighter matte shadow under brows to create a lifted look and add lightness to avoid overly-heavy eye shadow looks.

Product Reviewed: Benefit "Hello Flawless!" Oxygen Wow Liquid Foundation


Benefit Cosmetics is the epitome of sass.  From its packaging to its clever product names, Benefit is one of the most unique cosmetic lines out there.  Their latest foundation is no exception.  The Oxygen Wow foundation's list of benefits is even longer that its mouthful of a name.  SPF 25+++ protects skin from sun damage; a vitamin, mineral, and peptide complex plumps up skin and adds radiance; and a hyaluronic complex boosts cellular respiration.  These same ingredients also combat aging.  It's no wonder Allure magazine named this foundation 2012's Best Brightening Foundation.


Tip: Oxygen Wow tends took look yellow/orange at first, but once you apply and blend it, the shades have a very natural tone.  Don't try matching on the wrist, use the cheek or jaw to find your most true match.

Product Reviewed: Sephora Collection Outrageous Volume Mascara


Sephora's namesake product line is a go-to for affordable, quality, and on-trend products.  The brand's latest mascara was fell short of my expectations.  The rubber brushes short bristles are designed do douse lashes with a heavy dose of color and pumped-up volume.  Unfortunately, the heavy formula overwhelms lashes leaving them looking clumpy and weighted-down.  (I kid you not, when I used this mascara it was so heavy it condensed all lashes into three giant claw-like clumps.)  The rubber bristles are too short to effectively comb through and separate lashes.  I love the idea that the formula includes hyaluronic acid to hydrate lashes, but the uncomfortably heavy and unattractively clumpy formula make this mascara a no-go for me.


Tip:  If you're looking for a volumizing mascara with a rubber brush, try Buxom's Buxom Lash.  It's been a consistent best-seller and achieves all that this Sephora mascara it shooting for.

Product Reviewed: Korres Holiday 2011 Guava Indulgences Kit


I bought this kit as a Christmas treat for myself months ago.  Since then, I've been enjoying Korres' luxurious natural body products.  The light guava scent leaves me feeling fresh and relaxed.  The scent is light enough so as to not mix with any perfume I might add.  The body butter absorbs instantly and leaves skin feeling velvety soft for hours.  The body wash works up to a rich lather.  Both body butter and body wash last FOREVER!  The Lip Butter is nice, but not life-changing.  I wouldn't buy it by itself but in a kit, why not!  These Korres products are all paraben, sulfate, and synthetic free.  Shea butter softens, moisturizes, and rejuvenates skin.   Almond, sunflower, and avocado oils provide nourishment to improve skin elasticity and smoothness.  I look forward to the delicious scent and luxurious texture or Korres' body products after each and every shower!


Tip: Transform your body butter into a body shimmer by adding an illuminizer or shimmer powder into the lotion before applying.  This look is especially sexy during the summer when you're showing a little extra skin.

Product Reviewed: NARS Pore Refining Primer


This is one of the most liquid-y primers I've ever tried.  Not necessarily bad, just different.  I liked the fact that the primer promised to address pores as well as fine lines and wrinkles.  At first I was disappointed by the small bottle, but found that a little goes a very long way.  I've heard relatively positive things about this primer, but myself had a reaction to it.  Every time I use this primer, I break out.  Not ideal.  The texture isn't heavy, and the formula is fragrance free yet somehow this primer and I can't seem to get along.  Luckily, I didn't fall in love with the texture so no big loss.  Overall, impressions I get from clients seem to be mixed.  Overall rating: Mehh....


Tip: For those with sensitive or reactive skins (prone to irritation and/or reactions), do a patch test on a small area of your face to test for sensitivity.  If you want to jump right in, be sure to only try one new product at a time so as to not overwhelm your delicate skin.  Additionally, by only trying one new product at a time you'll be able to quickly isolate the genesis of any problems that may arise.

Product Reviewed: Revlon ColorStay


Disclaimer: Normally I am vehemently opposed to using drugstore foundation.  Why?  Several reasons: 1) Less expensive formulas tend to have a lot of cheap "filler" ingredients, many of which are not good for your skin. 2) Even as someone who works with foundation on a daily basis, I find it nearly impossible to determine a good match through without a tester. 3) At drugstores, you can never be sure how long the product has been sitting on the shelf. 4) Not all drugstores have a flexible return policy, meaning you could get stuck with a few foundations you don't love before finding your match. (Even at less than $15 each, it's still a risk.)  Ok, so now that I've come clean about my anti-drugstore-makeup bias, let tell you Revlon ColorStay has changed my world. 


The consistency of the foundation was nice and creamy, and provided excellent coverage without being heavy.  ColorStay has a natural finish, and wears well throughout the day.  Flexible coverage allowed me to apply heavier in areas where I need more coverage and lighter in areas where I don't need as much help.  I particularly like that Revlon has created two ColorStay formulas: one for combination/oily skin and one for normal/dry skin.   I chose the oil-free formula for oily/combination skin.  So far, so good in terms of breakouts (I was worried it would be comedogenic.)   I must say, I owe Revlon on apology on this one--ColorStay was $15 well spent.


Tip: If you're having trouble guessing your correct color through the bottle, go for a color with neutral undertones.  Unless you know you have warm or cool undertones, a neutral foundation is a safer bet.


Another tip: Make sure to wear an SPF with this foundation, as the 6 SPF it provides is negligible.

Product Reviewed: Sephora by OPI, Meet Me at the Disco


This new polish is the PERFECT glitter polish!  A lot of glitter polishes are pretty stingy with the glitter, and leave nails looking relatively bare.  Not this pretty little polish!  Meet Me at the Disco delivers an opaque layer of sparkle in just one coat.  (I used two coats in the picture, in order to even out coat and add a little extra pizzazz).  Even with two coats, my at-home mani was dry in less than five minutes.  After a full day of work, not even a chip.  Best part is, this polish goes with everything--it has silver and iridescent flecks so it reflects a prismatic shine of all colors.  Absolute bling.


Tip:  Add Meet Me at the Disco to your existing by painting glitter only on your ring fingers.  It's a more subtle shine, and so trendy right now!

Product Reviewed: Josie Maran Argan Oil


This product is the perfect example of when practice deviates from theory.  In theory: oil breaks up oil, making oil-based skin care products great for all skin types, including oily skins.  In practice: oil + oil = more oil.  The Josie Maran Argan Oil, while claiming to be perfect for all skins types, is realistically only suitable for drier skins types.  I have combination skin myself, and found that even on drier areas (such as my cheeks) this oil took forever to absorb and left me feeling sticky, shiny, and uncomfortable.  That being said, clients with drier, more mature skin seem to find that the oil absorbs nicely and leaves skin feeling hydrated.  While I appreciate and understand the science and theory behind using oil-based products on all skin types, I can't say that I've seen this theory work on too many clients (or myself!).  I do like the Argan Oil on dry elbows, cuticles, or even on the ends of my hair in a pinch; but unless you have dry skin I'd keep this product off your face. 


Tip: Josie Maran's line is renowned for its conscientious business model.  The Argan Oil is native to Morocco; and Josie Maran purchases all Argan Oil directly from women's cooperatives in Morocco at fair wages, ensuring that the women are justly compensated.   Josie Maran also strives to protect the environment and is dedicated the environmental irresponsibility.  I may not love the Argan Oil, but I can't help but love her business ethics!

Product Reviewed: Korres Mattifying Primer


Korres is an all-natural skincare and cosmetics company founded in Greece.  Korres recently added this mattifying primer to its Pomegranate line.  The entire Pomegranate is designed to mattify and target pore size.  This primer is nude and should blend into any skin tone.  (I've only only tried it on myself and clients with fair-medium skin tones, however.)  This primer is water-based, non-comedogenic, and very lightweight.  It will balance skin tone and texture, minimize the appearance of pores, and control oil and shine throughout the day.  I especially love using this primer with tinted moisturizers and light foundations, as the primer is likewise lightweight yet balances skin tone to perfect skin's appearance.  Ingredients such as witch hazel water will tighten pores while removing dirt and impurities.  The rice starch will absorbs oil will also soften skin.  This is the perfect primer to keep skin looking fresh during even the stickiest days summer!


Tip:  For added results, Korres recommends using this primer in conjunction with the Korres Pomegranate Mattifying Treatment.  Apple the treatment each morning after moisturizer and before primer.  As a bonus, you can also use the treatment on top of makeup throughout the day.

Product Reviewed: Tan Towels


The Tan Towels are a great way to fake a summer glow.  Easy to use, non-stinky, and not at all orange.  One of the body towelettes is enough to give your whole body a subtle glow.  Use the Tan Towel spray to recharge a towel and layer on a deeper hue.  Although the towels don't deposit any immediate pigment, color shows up within several hours.  I usually prefer to use tinted tanner so I can see if I've missed a spot, but the towels add such a soft amount of color that I rarely have any problems with missed patches.  That being said, if you're going to layer on color make sure you take your time and get an even application.  The towels are easy and quick enough to use everyday, and can be used on face or body.  Great way to add a natural look color as summer approaches!


Tip: Apply the Tan Towel after showering, exfoliating, and moisturizing.  Let dry.  I usually apply at night and then shower the next day to ensure tan is even.

Product Reviewed: Too Faced Better Than False Lashes Mascara


Too Faced's new mascara duo prefers to be called a 'lash extension system.'  This duo includes an activating mascara base/top coat and nylon stretch fibers.  (To use: first apply the black mascara then brush on the nylon fibers and finish off with a second coat of mascara.  Repeat up to five times for maximum results.)  I've found that the system is definitely unique, but falls short of the 'false lash' look it promises.  The fibers add noticeable volume at the lash base, but only adds a little bit of length.  The fibers worked, but only produced results similar to using a lash primer.  This duo made my lashes look nice, but didn't live up to its lofty promise.  On clients, I've seen the formula read clumpy.  Overall, more of a novelty than a revolutionary new lash system.


Tip: Don't use a lash curler with this product.  The lashes will clump and lose their volume and length.


Another tip:  While I didn't experience any irritation, a few clients with sensitive eyes were bothered by the fibers.  I wouldn't recommend this product for anyone with sensitive eyes.


****UPDATE**** In order to remove this mascara you will need a heavy-duty waterproof eye makeup remover. 

Product Reviewed: Tarte Smooth Operator Finishing Powder

Tarte earns another A in my book.  This all-natural mattifying setting powder contains Tarte's signature ingredient: Amazonian Clay.  This powder is finely milled, and when applied will not only set your make-up but will also reduce the appearance of pores by 20% after four weeks.  The Amazonian Clay will balance skin, and the silky smooth texture evens skin tone and texture.  This powder is great for all skin types.  You only need the tiniest amount, so apply judiciously.

Tip: This powder also comes with a tint that will give skin a warm bronze glow.

Another tip: This setting powder is perfect for summer--it will keep skin looking naturally matte.  Mix the powder with any tinted moisturizer or dewy finish foundation to keep achieve a chic matte finish with any product.

Product Reviewed: Tweezerman Eyelash Curler


This curler is what other curlers want to be when they grow up.  It is the pinnacle of lash curling.   Having tried my fair share of lash curlers, I can confidently say that the Tweezerman is far superior to its competitors.  Not only does the Tweezerman rarely pinch (yay, no more self-inflicted eye injuries!), but it also gives the longest-lasting, most noticeable curl and lift.  Rather than curling lashes towards the middle, this curler grabs lashes at their base, giving a dramatic lift that lengthens the look of your lashes.  As a bonus, the Tweezerman comes with not one but THREE refill pads so you can keep it fresh.


Tip:  For the longest lasting curl apply a coat of mascara and let dry.  Curl lashes and then set with a second coat of mascara.  

Product Reviewed: SpaRitual Nail Lacquer




Looking for a way to brighten up your spring wardrobe and rock the latest trends without breaking the bank?  Adding a pop of color to your next mani-pedi is the easiest way to add a little something extra to your daily look.  The SpaRitual nail lacquers are my new go-to polishes.  SpaRitual is a vegan product and offers formaldehyde, sulfate and paraben free polishes that offer spa-quality results even when applied at home.  The polish is formulated to dry faster and more evenly.  The shorter brush gives more control, allowing you to fake your way to a pro look.  I am notorious for chipping my nails on the way out of the salon, but it's been two days since I used the SpaRitual lacquer and so far no chipping!


Tip:  Adding a trendy color or design to your nails is the cheapest and quickest way to incorporate the latest crazy trends into your look.  And, no commitment so you can sport a new trend each week!