Sabrina, Author at The Beauty Look Book

Sephora Holiday Bonus Beauty Insider Event Details + Skin, Hair, Body Recommendations

October 26, 2018

The Sephora Holiday Beauty Insider Event starts today for Rouge Members! Sephora Beauty Insider members of different tiers will be able to shop the event on different weekends throughout the next few weeks. If you’re a Rouge Member you will have two weekends to shop. The event dates, details and discount codes per tier below (available both online and in store):

Rouge get 20% Off 10/26-10/29 and 11/2-11/5 with code: ROUGEBONUS
VIB get 20% off 11/9-11/12 with code: VIBBonus
Insiders/ Non-BI members get 15% off 11/16-11/19 with code: BIBONUS

There are some restrictions, the fine print for ROUGE, “20% offer valid for Rouge members on merchandise purchases made from 10/26/18 through 10/29/18 at 11:59pm PT and from 11/2/18 through 11/5/18 at 11:59pm PT in Sephora U.S. stores, Sephora Canada stores, Sephora inside JCPenney stores, and online. Offer not valid on jcp.com. On Friday, 10/26/18 in stores only, Rouge client and one guest of Rouge who is a member of the Beauty Insider program and is present at the time of redemption will be eligible for 20% off all merchandise purchases, along with a sample set free with any merchandise purchase. Sample set offer valid only in Sephora U.S. and Canada stores and Sephora inside JCPenney stores; assortment may vary. Limit of one sample set per Rouge client and one per guest and provided on a first-come basis. Quantities are limited. Not valid on purchases of customizable sets online, through Sephora’s Customer Service. Not valid on Google products. Clients are limited to the purchase of one Dyson item, three Drunk Elephant items, and three Tatcha items per SKU per transaction. Not valid on previous purchases, purchases of gift cards or eGift cards, FLASH, PLAY! by Sephora, gift wrapping, packaging, taxes, or shipping & handling charges. Return of discounted merchandise will be for the price actually paid. Sephora is not responsible for damaged, lost, or stolen promotional barcodes. Promotions have no cash value and may not be altered, sold, or transferred. Rouge status must be attained prior to redemption. No minimum purchase required. Due to heavy demand, Sephora FLASH delivery times cannot be guaranteed for this promotion. Not valid on orders shipping outside the U.S. or Canada. Cannot be used in conjunction with other promotion codes or Rouge Reward. Sephora and JCPenney employees are not eligible for these offers. Offers are subject to change, alteration, or termination by Sephora at its sole discretion at any time.”

I’ve split my recommendations into two posts. The first one today focuses on skincare, hair care and body favorites. So many readers have asked for more hair and skin recommendations over makeup, but that roundup is coming soon! For my makeup gurus I’m working on getting swatches of new NARS, a concealer roundup, Pat McGrath launches, Marc Jacobs Holiday and some Louboutin items up for you ASAP!

As a beauty blogger I put a lot of products to the extensive test, both purchased items and press samples. Skin care is always tricky for me because of the time it takes to see results along with the expectations I have with what “visible results” are. Other things such as seasonal changes, diet, aging, stress, hormones, that time of the month etc. all play a big factor as well. When it comes to testing skin care I recommend trying minis if you’re unsure. Sets are always great to try things first if you’re unsure about recommendations, reviews or ingredients. The one thing I appreciate most about the Sephora site is that they have more ingredients listed for product compared to any other retailer I shop at.

Skincare Face Cleansers

I love having testing different cleansers! Out of all the skincare categories I think I like cleansers and masks the most. My favorites:

Kate Somerville Eradikate Cleanser – If I had to use one face cleanser for the rest of my life, this would be the ONE. It has sulfur which helps with texture issues, remove impurities and keep pores clear. She has different formulas developed for different skin types and needs. I’ve tried every single one and alternate depending on how my skin feels. Her Kate Somerville Exfolikate Cleanser is also excellent.
Farmacy Clean Bee Ultra Gentle Facial Cleanser is a great option for those who want a green option. I’d recommend it for normal to oily skin. If you have dry skin, it might be too stripping in which case I’d suggest anything from First Aid Beauty like the classic Face Cleanser.
Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm * is great for those of us who need to double cleanse or remove makeup first but don’t want liquid oil running all over your arms, face and sink. This is my go-to makeup remover for the face and I think it’s better than the Clinique one which is still pretty darn good.
Tatcha Pure One Step Camellia Cleansing Oil * has been a long-time favorite as has the SK-II Facial Treatment Cleansing Oil but it’s so expensive I’ve stuck with cheaper alternatives.

Exfoliation

I feel like exfoliation is key to having clear skin, but face scrubs are so personal. What one’s skin can tolerate truly depends on what other items are being used in a routine. If you’re using acids, peels, Vitamin C or retinols on a regular basis your skin sensitivity will be increased significantly and therefore you might not be able to use certain products. For me I keep acids and peels to a minimum (although I do want to try more). I don’t use Vitamin C on a regular basis.

Fresh Sugar Face Polish is my favorite because it’s hydrating and also melts/dissolves into my face.
Kate Somerville Exfolikate is a classic with lactic acid and fruit enzymes to exfoliate the skin, it will tingle, so if you have ultra sensitive skin try the Gentle Version instead.
Jack Black Face Buff is Andrew’s favorite. He’s tried all of mine and several other men’s brands but says this is hands down the best and insists it’s better than any of mine.
Tatcha Rice Enzyme Powders aren’t really exfoliator scrubs, but I use them as a cleanser/exfoliator. If you have ultra sensitive skin I think these are great alternatives to face scrubs.

Skincare Moisturizers & Oils

Eve Lom White Brightening Cream is one of the most gentle face moisturizers I’ve tried with ingredients to combat dullness and pigment issues. I haven’t noticed that my sun spots have faded but it does brighten subtly, lift and tone. It calms the skin and makes it smooth. This is my fourth jar!
Kate Somerville Exfolikate Glow Moisturizer is an interesting concept because it has exfoliating ingredients, but doesn’t make you peel like the name implies. It has both glycolic and lactic acids that help with uneven skin texture. It hydrates nicely and adds the perfect amount of moisture.
La Mer Moisturizing Soft Lotion and Moisturizing Matte Lotion are Andrew’s favorites. He liked the Soft Lotion when we were in San Diego and for the cooler months here in Florida. For most of the hot seasons he prefers the Matte Version for a lightweight finish.
Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream is one of two Drunk Elephant products I’ve tried and like. It’s suitable for any skin type and I like that it feels nice on the skin – it has the perfect texture and amount of moisture.
Laura Mercier Flawless Skin Infusion de Rose Oil * is something I used up years ago and just started using again. It’s a lovely fluid rose oil that is ultra hydrating and soothing.
Eve Lom Radiance Oil is another one I just started using at night. I had finished my Kiehl’s and L’Occitane favorites and decided to try a few new ones. This one is really hydrating and lasts through the night. I think it’s going to be perfect for winter months ahead as we’re going into the dry season.

Skincare Extras: Masks, Mists, Treatments

Fresh Mask For Miles Set * has four of my favorite Fresh items, Black Tea Instant Perfecting Mask, Lotus Youth Preserve Rescue Mask, Sugar Face Polish and Rose Face Mask. I think this one makes the perfect gift for anyone, especially the hard to shop for!
Fresh Rose Floral Toner is one I actually use more as a face mist, it’s alcohol-free and is a nice soothing face mist. I like to apply this before workouts.
Glamglow Supermud is my holy grail clarifying mask, it sucks out impurities, excess oil, unclogs pores.
Drunk Elephant Sukari Baby Facial is a favorite of mine and Andrew’s. We’re going to stock up on this one during the event. It’s a great resurfacing product that really does work over several uses and leaves skin feeling super soft.
Omorovicza Queen of Hungary Mist * is my holy grail face mist!
Kate Somerville RetAsphere Micro Peel is one of the most gentle night peels that I’ve used that is effective, I also used to use her RetAsphere 2-in-1 Retinol Night Cream which is one of the few retinol products my skin could tolerate.

Body Products

Ouai Scalp and Body Scrub is scented in their rose scent. I haven’t used it on the hair, it was just so amazing as a body scrub I kept using it like that until it was all gone. I felt like couldn’t live without it so I bought another jar before the sale started.
REN Atlantic Kelp and Magnesium Salt Scrub is supposed to be an anti-fatigue body scrub. I bought this as I had really sore muscles after starting to lift weights. This made for a nice soak and hydrated the skin without leaving a greasy film.
Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen with SPF 50 is my holy grail of body sunscreens. It’s easy to reapply, isn’t greasy, doesn’t smell like sunscreen and it’s transparent (no white cast). We’ve also found it effective in intense Florida sunshine.
Kopari Coconut Deodorant * is my go-to deodorant right now, it’s natural, lightweight, applies smoothly and keeps odor away (also available as a mini in this Beauty Besties Set).
Kopari Coconut Melt is the best overnight body treatment I use for extra dry skin.
Jo Malone Colognes are something I never see go on sale, so the event is a great time to save. My two favorites are Wood Sage and Sea Salt and Basil and Neroli. The layering combinations are endless and fun to play around with.

Hair Care Favorites

Everything about my hair care routine is going to change now that I just got highlights. So many of you have given me amazing color-safe shampoo recommendations. Since they recommend not washing your hair for 72 hours after the process I’ve been ok without any options, but I’m going to check them out this weekend. In the meantime items I swear by:

Aquis Lisse Luxe Long Hair Towel is something I discovered this year and really love it! I suddenly found it kept disappearing on me. Andrew did not know it was a hair towel, found it in the clean laundry pile, liked the texture and absorbent quality so much he decided to steal it and use it for during and post-work out sweat. I’ve since ordered a few more in the regular length and Waffle Texture to try and keep one as my own.
Aquis Prime Starter Kit * this is something I just started testing, it’s a four piece set with products and a turban to prevent hair breakage. I’ll have a more detailed review soon, but think it’s excellent.
Moroccanoil Treatment * is a classic multi-tasker, I use it pre-heat and as a finishing product. I also love the way it smells! Been purchasing this for years but one shown was gifted.
IGK Dry Shampoos are among my favorite. They had a limited-edition trio of minis online and I bought a few as I like the smaller size to carry in my totes. Jet Lag is my favorite for my hair, but all three are amazing. No white residue on any of the formulas.
Ouai Hair Oil another favorite for the hair, it’s a nice lightweight oil. Scent is floral and strong and might not be everyone’s cup of tea but I love how it performs.

Lip Treatments

Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask is my favorite lip treatment I think is going to work for any skin type. They have clear and tinted versions (swatches of Champagne, Lavender, Maple and Smashed here)
Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment Advance Zodiac * is a fun way to gift someone a lip balm that’s a little more personalized if it matches their zodiac sign! These are listed as online only. I received a few in the mail and think they’re so fun. I’ve tried the regular non-limited edition packaging one and think it’s better than the regular lip treatment, although the tinted ones are super fun too.
Dior Addict Lip Glow is something I actually consider more makeup than skincare, but I know some of you consider it skincare! It’s the best color-transforming balm I’ve tried. Perfect for an easy look and nice to reapply. It’s tough to pick just one shade, my favorite is Coral.

The top things I’d recommend include: Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen, Ouai Body and Scalp Scrub, Fresh Mask for Miles Set, Drunk Elephant Baby Facial, Glamglow Supermud, Kopari Coconut Deodorant, Omorovicza Queen of Hungary Mist and really any of the Fresh Holiday sets. I want to fill my bathroom floor to ceiling with their shower gels and face masks.

To keep on with my tradition with my Sephora Beauty Insider Event roundups, I’m doing another giveaway! I’m giving away one $250 eGift Card to Sephora. Open internationally, 18 years and older. Giveaway is going to run through November 1st. For a chance to win enter by using the steps in the widget below. I’ll select one person via the widget within 48 hours after giveaway ends. Not sponsored or affiliated.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Quick recap on the event dates, details and discount codes per tier below (available both online and in store):

Rouge get 20% Off 10/26-10/29 and 11/2-11/5 with code: ROUGEBONUS
VIB get 20% off 11/9-11/12 with code: VIBBonus
Insiders/ Non-BI members get 15% off 11/16-11/19 with code: BIBONUS

Most items featured were purchased or repurchased by me. Press samples indicated with a *.

136 Comments

Hourglass Cosmetics

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Edit Volume 4 + Confession Duo – Holiday 2018

October 25, 2018

Reviewing some more Hourglass Cosmetic holiday launches today with swatches and thoughts on their limited-edition Ambient Lighting Edit Palette Volume 4 ($80 for 1.3 g x 6) + Confession Lipstick Duo ($34 for 2 lipsticks). Everything is limited-edition and comes in metallic lavender pink packaging.

I already reviewed the Ambient Lighting Edit Palette Unlocked Edition earlier in the month but received so many requests to compare it to the Volume 4 Palette. The two have a similar luminous feel, Unlocked has all new shades while Volume 4 has mostly repeats. The shades are easy to wear and have a range of setting powder, highlight, bronzer and blush.

Ambient Lighting Edit Volume 4 Colors include:

Dim Light – nude pale pink with a satin finish
Diffused Light – pale yellow with a satin matte finish
Euphoric Strobe Light – shimmering champagne
Filtered Bronze Light – new, neutral soft light bronze shimmer
Luminous Glow Blush – new, shimmery peach with champagne (similar to Incandescent Electra, but this one is deeper)
Euphoric Fusion – swirled champagne highlight with mauve plum shimmer

Because the reflection of the packaging plays tricks on my eyes depending on light, I have two close ups. In indoor lighting below:

In direct sunlight:

The palette performs really well. Part of me wishes it had all new shades. Even the new ones have a similar vibe to existing colors. I do really love this one, I think I prefer it to Unlocked. I find it works better for my skintone and has more of what I’m looking for in an entire look. Unlocked is still very pretty, it just runs darker on my skin. Everything has smooth application. The texture is the same quality as individual products. Skin is left luminous and glowing. Shimmers don’t emphasize pores. Lasting power is excellent.

A look at Unlocked (reviewed here) vs Volume 4:

There are a few lip set options this holiday, I ordered the Confession Lipstick Duo with My One Desire and At Night. I neglected to check my stash and didn’t realize I already had these from previous launches until I swatched them. These come with one case (the pink tube) and the black case is the refill. You can definitely use the lipstick without the metallic case. My One Desire is a neutral cool mauve pink, At Night is a deep brick red. Both perform true to the Confession Lipstick formula – ultra creamy, opaque, smooth and long lasting. I still think these are among the most overpriced lipsticks on the market, but the quality, color selection and finish are truly excellent. A look at the Hourglass Confession Lipstick Duo My One Desire and At Night vs original Gold Packaging. All the existing Confession Ultra Slim Lipsticks swatched here.

Beauty look below with new hair! Also wearing Armani Luminous Silk Foundation in 6.5 + 7 mixed. Ambient Lighting Edit Palette Volume 4 Dim Light + Diffused applied all over as a setting powder, a mix of Filtered Bronze Light and Euphoric Fusion on the cheeks, Euphoric Strobe Light on the eyes. My One Desire worn on the lips.

Quality-wise everything is excellent. I’m really happy with the palette even though I have repeats. I always find them convenient for on-the-go or travel. All this said if you already own some Hourglass powders or palettes I’d recommend that you shop your stash. If you’ve never splurged on an Hourglass Ambient Lighting powder the palettes are a great way to dive into the line. Quality is great and even though the price of palettes is steep it’s a nice way to try multiple colors and finishes rather than buying individual colors which add up to more. Yes, value-wise price per ounce or gram the palettes are not the smartest buy. I also feel this way about the lipsticks but have mentioned numerous times the quality is excellent.

I bought my holiday picks from Sephora. The limited-edition pink packaging is also available at Hourglass Cosmetics, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Beautylish and Barneys New York. Don’t forget that tomorrow is the start of the Sephora VIB Sale so if you have this on your wishlist you might want to save it for the event! Recs and roundup to go live soon 🙂

Have you checked out any of the Hourglass holiday launches this year yet? What did you think?

112 Comments

Charlotte Tilbury

Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Palette of Pops Supersonic Girl + Superstar Lips Review

October 24, 2018

I’m on a Charlotte Tilbury kick with another review on some holiday launches. I reviewed the Stars In Your Eyes Palette a couple weeks ago and love it, but I received an overwhelming number of requests to also review her Luxury Palette of Pops Supersonic Girl. I ordered it before it sold out and also added some of her Superstar Lips to my online shopping cart. Thoughts, swatches and review today.

Case above by The Daily Edited. Tray from West Elm. Bracelet is Celine.

The Luxury Palette of Pops comes in two color options, I opted for the warmer Supersonic Girl because it launched first. It has already sold out at both Nordstrom and Charlotte Tilbury, I don’t know if they will restock. I hope I can ease your mind if you missed out. It’s good, but not as good as her Stars in Your Eyes or the NARS Singapore Eyeshadow Quad.

There are four glistening shadows that have intense microsparkle. It’s like finely milled glitter that glides onto the lids. The color is very sheer but you can still see color once applied on the lids. The shades include a glistening pink, warm orange shimmer, shimmering warm brown, and warm red sparkle. I love the pink and brown, the orange and red both kinda morph into the same color on my eyes and it’s very very warm. I think it’s beautiful but more of a party palette or layering for me. As a stand alone it doesn’t have deep enough shades to do a whole eye look for me as I prefer having at least one darker shade I can use as a liner or to smoke out. The Stars in Your Eyes is very different even though there are a few similar tones. To me this one is a better buy because of the versatility and color range.

Swatches:

Side by sides, Stars In Your Eyes reviewed here:

NARS Singapore reviewed here:

She also launched a new lipstick formula called Superstar Lips. There are four shades Happy Lips, Walk of Shame, Pillow Talk and Confident Lips at Nordstrom and Charlotte Tilbury. Additionally there are two shades in Sexy Lips and Wild Lips exclusive to Charlotte Tilbury’s website. I ordered four from Nordstrom sight unseen.

These are an ultra slim glossy lipstick. Formula is semi-thick and glossy. They feel lush on the lips and are definitely not weightless. I think the formula is really really good but they’re super tiny especially for the price. They’re $34 each for 1.8 g, one of my Matte Revolution boxes says the formula is 3.5 g for the same price. Granted I have so many lipsticks so I’m not worried about using up colors or running out. I still think for the amount/size they should have lowered the price. They are scented in the same vanilla scent her other lipsticks have. The color stays put for hours, it didn’t slide around even though it’s glossy. Although if you’re lips are prone to having product slide around, I’d recommend you add one of her Lip Cheat pencils on your lips first.

Happy Lips is my favorite, it’s a happy coral peach color. Walk of Shame is a warm glossy red. Pillow Talk is similar to the matte Pillow Talk, it’s a nude pink, I prefer the matte version because it shows up better on my lips. Confident Lips looks black in the tube but has that Clinique Black Honey vibe, it goes on a deep wine plum.

One last look, I took these photos a few days before my hair transformation (more on Instagram in case you missed it!). Also wearing Armani Luminous Silk Foundation in 6.5 + 7.5 mixed, Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Finish Powder #2, Supersonic Girl on the Eyes, By Terry Lash-Expert Mascara, Hourglass Arch Brow Pencil in Warm Brunette.

Overall I do think the Luxury Palette of Pops has a great formula for glitter sparkles. The colors in general are too warm for me to wear alone and also very sheerish on my medium tan complexion. It’s going to be perfect for the holiday season but you can get a similar effect by using similar shades and popping one of the Hourglass Scattered Light shadows on top. I think her Superstar Lips are really good with a beautiful glossy sheen. For the price they are extremely small. My favorite is Confident Lips – it’s the perfect deep fall holiday color that will look different on everyone but I still think flattering regardless of skin tone.

I bought the Super Sonic Girl and Superstar Lips at Nordstrom. Hoping she will restock the palette for those who wanted it! Also available online at Charlotte Tilbury. Did you check these out yet? What did you think?

28 Comments

Lips MAC

MAC Powder Kiss Lipstick Review + Swatches

October 22, 2018

MAC launched a new formula of matte lip color called Powder Kiss Lipstick ($19 each for 3 g/0.1 oz, made in Italy). These were seen all over the backstage beauty photos in recent fashion week coverage and I thought these were going to be too trendy for me but was pleasantly surprised. Long time readers know I really do not like matte lips. These are described as, “A moisture-matte weightless lipstick that delivers a romantic blur of effortless soft-focus colour.” Depending on your lipstick finish preference these are going to be hit or miss for you. For me these are a solid win.

The Powder Kiss Lipstick has a soft blurred matte finish without looking or feeling dry. They have a weightless texture and finish that almost feels like it’s wearing an airy cloud on the lips. The finish is cushiony with full smooth coverage and I am truly surprised at how lightweight it is. MAC describes these as having moisture-coated powder pigments which seems so interesting to me. They’re not really as hydrating as a lip balm, but I do think they have some moisture in them given the fact that they do not look dry on the lips.

I tried these individually on their own. I suspect with some of the lighter shades you can mix and blend together for an ombre lip or to create your own custom color. There is only one shade that didn’t work for me by itself which is the palest option Best of Me. Still it applied smoothly without any patchy issues.

The packaging is just like the regular MAC Lipsticks but it has a slightly matte finish resembling the finish of the lipstick formula. Some have commented on the scent of these. I didn’t notice it while swatching or playing with them until I gave them a good whiff right out of the tube. It has MAC lipstick scent with a powdery slightly rubber smell. It’s not strong enough to bother me but it is noticeable. I consider my nose to be sensitive and it did not bother me.

First a look at all the shades plus descriptions:

Best of Me is a pale milky beige
Influentially It is a pale nude beige
Impulsive is a medium warm brown
Sweet No Sugar is a light warm pink
My Tweedy is a peachy pink blush nude
Scattered Petals is a medium pink
Sultriness is a cool toned pink
Mull It Over is a peach pink-brown
Devoted to Chili is a brick red brown
Mandarin O is a bright orange
A Little Tamed is a muted pink rose
Lasting Passion is a bright red with blue pink tones
Style Shocked is a vibrant coral orange
Fall In Love is a hot pink
Shocking Revelation is a hot pink red
Burning Love is a perfect plum

A closer look at the lighter neutrals, Best of Me, Influentially It, Impulsive, Sweet No Sugar, My Tweedy, Scattered Petals, Sultriness and Mull it Over.

Swatched on bare lips, skintone reference I’m MAC NC35 in Studio Fix and Studio Fix Fluid.

Deeper bold shades including Devoted to Chili, Mandarin O, A Little Tamed, Lasting Passion, Style Shocked, Fall In Love, Shocking Revelation, Burning Love.

Bottom line I’m impressed, especially since I’m a glossy lip girl. I really like how these glide on and give a blurred lip effect without looking or feeling dry. There’s no tugging at the lip when you apply. I also love the weightless feel. They did not dry out my lips. Lasting power is very good, it stays on and adheres well without fading for hours. Color isn’t transfer-proof though. My top 3 picks: Burning Love, My Tweedy and Sultriness.

A few thoughts on this formula compared to a few others I’ve tried and like. MAC Matte Lipsticks are heavier and more opaque in finish with a thicker feel. Pat McGrath Matte Trance has more impact pigment-wise, it has more weight to it while the MAC Powder Kiss feels like air. Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution almost feels like it drags on the lips by comparison, and in reality it doesn’t really drag on my lips, but if you swipe it compared to the MAC Powder Kiss, the MAC glides on easier/smoother.

Available now at all MAC counters. Online at MAC Cosmetics, Nordstrom, Ulta Beauty, Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue. Have you tried these yet? Or do you have any matte lipstick favorites?

MAC Powder Kiss provided courtesy of MAC Cosmetics for review consideration.

15 Comments

Loving Right Now

October 20, 2018

Happy Weekend! Taking a quick break from reviewing new makeup launches to highlight some other things I’ve had in rotation that I’ve been loving. This is a mini peek at some things I’ll be expanding on soon. Working on more hair care stories, fall fragrance and skin care roundups by popular request so stay tuned!

Top Row: Chanel La Creme Main Texture Riche, Sisley Black Rose Cream Mask, Simplehuman Sensor Mirror Compact, Armani Luminous Silk Foundation 6.5
Middle Row: Drunk Elephant TLC Sukari Baby Facial, Fresh Sugar Face Polish, Chanel Les Eaux de Chanel Venise, Chanel Les 4 Ombres Clair Obscur
Bottom Row: Byredo Bal d’Afrique, Ouai Hair Oil, Bite Beauty Agave Lip Masks in Maple and Champagne, Sisley Hair Rituel Hair Oil

Simplehuman Sensor Mirror Compact

So many of you have been asking for a review on the Simplehuman Sensor Mirror Compact. I’ve featured it on Instagram a few times and have found it to be quite handy. It comes in several different color options and I bought it in two colors Rose Gold and Silver (you definitely don’t need more than 1 color, I bought one to keep at my desk, another for on-the-go/travel). It has 3x magnification and it’s extremely sharp and clear. It has Simplehuman’s lighting that they call “tru-lux” which mimics natural sunlight. I like that it’s really sturdy, comes with a pouch you can store it in, has two light brightness settings and also comes with a fold-out ring you can hold in your hand or use to stand up on a flat surface. It’s rechargeable and the lights last a long time without me having to recharge frequently, although I find the mirror is so good I don’t always use the lights.

It’s indeed quite a splurge for a compact mirror, but the quality is very good, it’s well made and designed. I really like the pouch because it’s compact and not bulky. The product itself measures a little over approximately 4 inches in diameter, mirror is 4 inches wide. Available at Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Dillard’s.

Chanel La Creme Main Texture Riche

Chanel La Creme Main Texture Riche has been in heavy rotation! I really love the texture and way it smells. I know we all have our favorites but I’m really loving the packaging and velvety finish. Full review in this post with ingredients. All three available at Chanel.com.

Bite Agave Lip Mask

The Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask is something I’ve used up several times. I think many of you will agree it’s one of the best most hydrating lip products. For some reason I didn’t think any of these had a fun scent/taste. I just realized that Maple and Lavender both have a sweet candy like taste which is really pleasant. These pretty much go on clear even the tinted ones. Maple is my lips but better and actually does give my pigmented lips a tint. Smashed is a very sheer red. There’s a new one that looks like it’s an online exclusive called Candy Apple. Also available in a cute Agave Treat Trio Mini Set with Natural, Candy Cane and Maple. Available at Sephora and Bite Beauty.

Skincare Favorites Right Now

So many things I’ve been wanting to write about for skincare. I’m trying to organize my roundups by category in an updated series for you. If you have any requests or questions let me know in the comments! For now a few things I think are amazing are from Sisley, Drunk Elephant and Fresh.

The Sisley Black Rose Face Mask is one of the best hydrating masks I’ve ever tried. It’s a cult classic and lives up to the hype. A tube is quite the splurge and I’ve hoarded every mini and sample I’ve gotten for ages. The Sisley team sent a tube and I was beyond grateful for it! It’s really truly amazing. It will be forever in my routine. It softens and plumps the skin making it feel super soft and radiant. There are a few sets available with this in the full size and minis so if you’re in the market to splurge I highly recommend looking online first. They give price breaks for the sets and often have good gift with purchases. Available at multiple retailers including Sisley-Paris.

I’ve received so many questions about Drunk Elephant lately! It’s a line I’ve really wanted to try more but haven’t had a chance to yet. Skincare testing takes so much time. I’ve only tried two things so far, but have had great success with both. The TLC Sukari Babyfacial is one of the few AHA/BHA resurfacing products I’ve tried I think works, but over multiple uses. This is an area I want to experiment more with. I’ve had more time to experiment with this and find that the tingle truly depends on what other items you’ve been using in your routine. Any acids or retinols or even scrubs you use increases skin sensitivity. Both Andrew and I have been really interested in learning more about acids and peels. Until we get a strong one done at a dermatologist or clinic, we’ve been testing a few at home. I think this one is strong enough to give visible results. Skin is left baby smooth after a single use. For me I didn’t really see texture improve until a few uses, but that is expected. The other Drunk Elephant item I’ve tried which I love is the Protini Polypeptide Cream which I still recommend and love. Both available at Sephora.

Then there’s the Fresh Beauty Sugar Face Polish which I’ve featured a number of times already but had to mention again. It’s a sugar scrub that melts into the skin so it’s not harsh. It smells amazing, leaves the skin soft and exfoliates without being too gritty. Everything in the Fresh Beauty line is on the pricey side but the products leave me feeling like a new person. For the holiday I always get questions about what to get the person who has everything. I’m compiling a gift guide series, but for sure you cannot go wrong with Fresh. Even if they already own the products, it’s such a beautiful line – their masks are amazing and are bound to be loved and used up. I think their Mask Sets are the best things you can buy for yourself or a friend. Last year the four piece mini set sold out super fast. This year’s there are a few options. The Great Escape Face Mask Set is available at Nordstrom. There is also a slightly different variation called Mask for Miles exclusive to Sephora (minis shown above are from the Sephora set).

Fragrance

A fall fragrance edit coming your way soon but right now it’s still in the high 90’s. No signs of feeling like fall here in Florida but scent helps put me in the mood. Three I’ve been reaching for frequently include Jo Malone Wood Sage and Sea Salt (but I like this year round, notes include bergamot, ambrette seeds, buchu leaves, sea salt, mineral accord, dry fruits, driftwood accord, guaiac wood, white musk, sage). I bought mine from Nordstrom. Also available in a mini in the 5-piece Cologne Collection set.

Byredo Bal D’Afrique has a warmer feel for me and I love it during this time of year (notes include bergamot, lemon, neroli, African marigold, bucchu, violet, jasmine petals, cyclamen, black amber, musk, vetiver, Moroccan cedarwood). I bought mine at Nordstrom. You can also find it in the travel spray size in the La Selection Nomade trio.

All three Chanel Les Eaux de Chanel-Paris perfumes are perfect. Les Eaux de Chanel Biarritz is the best for citrus lovers but it has a lighter feel more like spring or summer. For fall I think Les Eaux de Chanel Venise is perfect with neroli, oriental accord, amber, a bit of vanilla and tonka bean. Based on the notes you can sense the feel that I love bergamot and citrus notes. Available at Chanel.com.

Hair + Makeup Basics

I get asked about the Gisou Hair Comb frequently. It’s such a beautiful basic wide tooth comb although it’s not available at a lot of places. I ordered it directly from the Gisou website and really like it. It comes in the prettiest pink pouch which I don’t use but when I travel I’ll keep it inside. For hair oils I have more that I’ve been testing coming your way soon, but two I love include the Sisley Hair Rituel Precious Hair Care Oil (reviewed here and here) and the Ouai Hair Oil (reviewed here). Both are great for shiny smooth hair.

There are so many great makeup basics that I have in rotation. With all the new beauty that launches weekly I sometimes forget to mention everyday basics. The Armani Luminous Silk Foundation was one I used years ago and the formula never lasted on me. I decided to give it another try based on the overwhelming number of requests I’ve had to review it again. I’m 6.5 and 7 mixed. I’ve found if I combine it with the Laura Mercier Oil-Free Primer it lasts all day on me (I do need a touch up mid-day though). I think what moisturizer and primer you use with this is key. Otherwise as with many foundation formulas using a base that isn’t compatible will make the product either separate or pill on your skin. I mix the shades because 6.5 is a little too yellow and 7 is a little neutral. I bought both of mine from Nordstrom.

Chanel Matte Les 4 Ombres in Clair Obscur is my go-to matte quad these days. It’s easy to use and I don’t have to think about what else to combine for eyes, cheeks or clothes. It’s versatile and goes with everything I wear. Review + swatches here. Available at Chanel.com.

That wraps up my loving right now roundup! As always I’d love to hear what you are loving right now. I’m starting up weekly giveaways again now through end of November. There are two places I’m doing giveaways, one is on Instagram (announced weekly on stories so make sure you follow for details there). Another one is going to be via the blog. This week I’m giving away a full-size bottle of the Sisley Hair Rituel Precious Oil + Ouai Hair Oil to one reader. Open internationally but you must be 18 years or older to win. To qualify you must follow ALL the steps in the widget below, partial entries will be disqualified. Giveaway runs through 10/22 11:59 PM EST. I’ll pick a winner within 48 hours after giveaway ends and contact via email.

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Press samples featured include: Sisley Hair Rituel, Sisley Black Rose, Chanel Venise. All others purchased by me.

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Eye Makeup Highlighters Urban Decay

Urban Decay Naked Cherry Collection Review + Swatches

October 18, 2018

I have an Urban Decay Naked Cherry Collection review + swatches for you today! This is a collection I did not expect to work for me based on the color scheme. I rarely wear reds or pinks on the eyes (Naked Heat was too warm for me) so I was pleasantly surprised to find the colors are actually easy to wear for my neutral-makeup loving self. I’ve been the biggest fan of the original Naked, Naked 2 and Naked 3 eyeshadow palettes. Anytime anyone asks what palette I’d recommend to start out their makeup collection it’s one of those (sad that the original one was discontinued though!). In the Naked Cherry launch we have:

Naked Cherry Eyeshadow Palette ($49, palette made in USA, brush made in China)
Naked Cherry Highlight and Blush Palette ($34, made in USA)
Naked Cherry All Nighter Scented Makeup Setting Spray ($15 for 30 ml/1 fl oz, made in USA)
Naked Cherry 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Love Drug and Black Market ($21 each, made in USA, although my other eyeliners in this formula say made in Germany)
Vice Lipsticks in Juicy, Devilish and Cherry ($18 each, made in USA)

The star in the collection is the Naked Cherry Eyeshadow Palette. Urban Decay makes some of the best eyeshadow formulas for their mattes and shimmers. They’re buttery smooth, have excellent pigment, are easy to build and layer. They also stay put, even the glitters. Naked Cherry pulls more pink and plum with cranberry tones rather than cherry colors to my eye, but I’m all for that because a true cherry red would probably not work on my complexion.

Colors include:

Hot Spot perfect matte pale pink cream
Caution sheer cool beige matte
Bang Bang shimmery warm soft pink
Feelz matte mauve
Juicy matte warm pink
Turn On shimmering light mauve grey champagne
Ambitious shimmery warm bronze with plum tones
Bing matte violet mauve
Devilish matte warmish purple
Young Love shimmery plum cherry color
Drunk Dial deep shimmer plum
Privacy matte plum brown with red tones

Below wearing the Naked Cherry Eyeshadow shades in Bang Bang, Feelz, Ambitious and Drunk Dial, Urban Decay Vice Lipstick in Devilish, Naked Cherry Highlight and Blush Trio. Also wearing Charlotte Tilbury Magic Foundation in 6 + 7, mixed, Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Powder #2, Hourglass Arch Brow Pencil in Dark Brunette, Too Faced Better than Sex Mascara.

A lot of you have asked whether I prefer the Naked Cherry palette or the Charlotte Tilbury Stars in Your Eyes. It’s a tough call because while there are similar tones, I find them very different. The Charlotte Tilbury has more shimmer and glow with lighter warmer gold tones. It has more of a glam feel because of the shimmers. The Naked Cherry has a more monochrome feel with pink, plum and cherry colors. It also has more variety in the deeper colors for plum/pinks. Right now if I had to pick one it would be the Charlotte Tilbury one simply because I like the gold and champagne colors. I do think the Urban Decay one is more unique compared to what I already own.

By request, swatching them side by side (review + swatches of the Charlotte Tilbury one here)

Naked Cherry 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Love Drug and Black Market are smooth eyeliners. The 24/7 Glide-On is among the smoothest pencils I’ve tried and they never tug or dry out. They haven’t always been smudge proof on me and don’t last 24/7 like a liquid liner but they do stay put without sliding around for several hours on my eyes. I usually top/set with a deep powder shadow as a liner to help it stay longer. Your mileage may vary depending on how oily your lids are.

Love Drug is a shimmery plum, Black Market is a satiny black with a sheen. I’ve swatched a few other pencils I still have next to the new ones:

The Naked Cherry Highlight and Blush Palette was very different from what I expected. Colors swatch with medium pigment on the arms, but on the face it is sheer. Also there’s almost a secret shimmer in one of the colors you can’t see in the pan. Once swatched the colors are a soft champagne with a hint of pink, sheer light cherry pink (goes on a lot more natural than I anticipated) and a duo chrome pink flash shimmer. The good news is that this is a palette I think is impossible to overdo. It applies smoothly, doesn’t emphasize pores or fine lines, colors blend naturally on the skin. But if you need pigment and color this might be too natural for you.

Vice Lipsticks in Juicy, Devilish and Cherry are new to the launch with special-edition cherry packaging. They’re not scented (thank goodness, because I don’t like cherry smells). I’ve tried a few Vice Lipsticks before and find the formula hit or miss depending on color. Some were really dry and patchy on my lips, but others are smooth, creamy and comfortable. All three in the Naked Cherry line are excellent. Juicy is a unique sheer shimmery iridescent peach with copper and bronze micro shimmers. It’s sparkly but not gritty on my lips. Devilish is a bright berry pink with micro shimmers. Cherry is the perfect deep cherry cream. Coverage is sheer-medium for the shimmers, full for the cream. Application is smooth and there’s a slight sheen to the finish. Lasting power is very good. They’re creamy and semi-thick so they adhere to the lips but they don’t feel heavy.

Naked Cherry All Nighter Scented Makeup Setting Spray is something I was so reluctant to try simply because I don’t like cherries. I did try it though and it’s actually a lot more pleasant than I expected. It smells like a sheer sweet cherry, almost like a toned down candy cherry. It performs just as well as the regular All Nighter Spray to set makeup and keep it in place for hours. I still don’t know how I feel about scented face sprays that smell like fruit. I’m all about ones that smell like rose or lavender, but the only one I truly love that is food scented is the MAC Fix+ in Coconut because I love anything coconut.

Natural look wearing Juicy Lipstick, the lighter shades of the Eyeshadow Palette and the Highlight Blush Cheek Palette. Same base + brows as what’s listed in the photo above.

Overall a really cute collection! I think the eyeliners are definitely dupeable, so if you have black or plum in your stash you can probably recreate the look with something similar. Love Drug does pull a little more cherry in color and Black Market is more of a muted black rather than a classic deep version. I feel like the Highlight and Cheek Palette is going to be hit or miss for many of you. If you’re lighter than me it will show up. I’m right at the skin tone where it gives a barely there glow. If you’re darker I suspect it will be too sheer/light for your complexion. The eyeshadow palette was an unexpected YES for me. I’m still a peach/gold/bronze kind of gal for eyeshadows but it’s nice to branch out here and there with colors you normally wouldn’t wear. Considering I rarely wear reds or pinks I find myself being braver with color and love trying new combinations.

You can find the Naked Cherry Collection out now. I’m really surprised to find that several items have sold out here and there. You may have to do a little shopping around to find all the colors you want.

Available at Sephora, Ulta Beauty, Nordstrom and Urban Decay.

Have you tried these yet? What did you think? If you wear warm or pinks or reds what’s your favorite palette of the moment?

Naked Cherry collection provided for review.

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Lips Tom Ford Beauty

Tom Ford Beauty Boys + Girls Lip Color – 2018 Picks

October 17, 2018

I look forward to the Tom Ford Beauty Boys + Girls Lipsticks every year! Today I have review and swatches of my 2018 picks for the Tom Ford Boys and Tom Ford Girls and the formula is true to Tom Ford style with well made pigment, texture and finishes. They have that subtle vanilla scent to them and lasting power is similar to those of previously launched clutch-sized lipsticks. The sheers are sheer and glossy with medium lasting power while the creams stay put longer. There were a handful I ordered online sight unseen and I received some press sample colors. By the time I stopped by my local counter to see all the shades I noticed they didn’t receive all the testers and I didn’t have a chance to go back and investigate. Based on my online guesses I’ll say up front that I ended up with a lot of similar shades. As a neutral lip lover I’m thrilled, but even on my lips I could have skipped a few and opted for some of the more edgy colors.

Tom Ford Boys and Girls 2018 Picks

The formula for all the colors I tried is excellent. Smooth application, no streaky finish or patchy look. Even with the pale colors I found the finish to be really good. In addition this year the Tom Ford Girls Lipsticks have a stronger base than last year’s versions (at least the ones I have do). I experienced some breakage at the bases with the 2017 version. Some of you had the same issue. With all the 2018 shades I found them all to be 100% ok.

Colors I have reviewed have a mix of the Boys and Girls formulas. In general the Girls are sheerer with a glossy finish. These come in Ultra Rich (creamier but still glossy) and Lip Color Sheer (sheer and glossy). The Boys are more opaque and creamy with either a Matte or Cream finish. I prefer the Boys because they have better color payoff but really all the formulas are nice.

Uma (Girls, Ultra Rich) is a pale flesh nude cream, it’s a lot more wearable on me than Blushed Nude or Spiced Honey, but still very pale on my lips
Ava (Girls, Lip Color Sheer) is a semi sheer glossy shimmery champagne
Monica (Girls, Ultra Rich) is a sheer light brown cream, pulls a little warm on my lips, but in the tube is more neutral
Camilla (Girls, Lip Color Sheer) is a sheer shimmery peachy pink (please excuse the typo on the photos, I forgot to add an extra “L”)
Alistair (Boys, Lip Color) is a neutral cool-toned nude, on my olive skin it pulls slightly mauve
Gal (Girls, Ultra Rich) is a medium neutral pink cream
Tomoko (Girls, Lip Color Sheer) is a shimmery pink cream, has tiny flecks of gold, pulls a little deeper/brighter than Gal
River (Boys, Lip Color) is a medium peachy pink, pulls more peach cream
Bryan (Boys, Lip Color) is a pretty cool pink neutral, pulls the tiniest bit cooler
Ori (Boys, Lip Color) is a medium pink cream
Helena (Girls, Lip Color Sheer) is a sheer cool plum pink
Hudson (Boys, Lip Color) is a cream nude cool-toned pink
Chadwick (Boys, Lip Color) is the perfect brick brown red
Scott (Boys, Lip Color) is a sheer plum with subtle shimmer

A closer look row by row with lip swatches on bare lips. Set 1 has Uma, Ava, Monica, Camilla and Alistair:

Set 2 has Gal, Tomoko, River, Bryan and Ori:

I triple checked my swatches as they all look nearly identical. I do suspect if you have lighter lips or lighter skin tone you’ll see the difference between shades more on your complexion. I’m right at the medium olive point where these tones look the same. The color difference can be seen better from the product shot of colors in the tubes.

I did pull a few other Lip Color classics such as Sable Smoke, Pink Dusk, Spanish Pink to compare on my own. I think that it was a really tough call to detect the differences between Pink Dusk, Spanish Pink and the entire middle row of colors I swatched. If you had your eye on any of the full size neutrals but didn’t want to splurge, the clutch-sized Boys and Girls are a nice way to splurge at a lower price point with similar colors. Comparisons that look nearly identical to me:

Set 3 has Helena, Hudson, Chadwick and Scott (I also added Daniel for comparison):

For the Boys and Girls 2018 launches I tried, my favorites are Camilla, River, Bryan, Ava and Scott. I really feel like I should have ventured to try more of the plums or reds. I received a couple very bold colors (a bright purple and electric red) but since they weren’t colors I felt I’d ever wear so I gifted those away. I do think based on online swatches that Jordan, Ingrid and Nico look particularly stunning. I might take another look if I’m at the counter soon to see if they have testers, but there is so much coming out for holiday I’m thinking about waiting for other things.

You can see swatches of the 2017 Tom Ford Beauty Girls picks from last year. I found myself reaching for Katherine and Lara the most, although to this day Bradley is still my go-to nude.

You can find the Tom Ford Beauty Boys and Girls Lipsticks at all counters now. I bought half of the featured shades from Nordstrom and the other half were sent as press samples. Also available at Sephora, Neiman Marcus, Beautylish, Net-A-Porter, Saks Fifth Avenue.