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Chanel Cruise Collection 2018 Beauty Picks

June 5, 2018

Chanel Beauty Cruise Collection Review 2018 | The Beauty Look Book

Happy Tuesday! I’m back from a week of travel from NYC. Trip recap to follow soon but I have a few beauty reviews to share first. Chanel Cruise 2018 launched a few weeks ago with some limited-edition pieces. I ordered a few items sight unseen and have been playing with them over my trip. Quick take is that the Cruise 2018 Collection has some really beautiful pieces but in general my heart gravitates more towards the colors of the Les Beiges 2018 Collection for a glowing summer look.

Items featured today are from the Cruise Collection along with one lip pencil that’s new but not part of cruise:

Up first are two eye picks including the Les 4 Ombres in Eclat Enigmatique and Le Volume Waterproof Mascara in Gris Voile. The Eclat Enigmatique is a soft sheer but buildable eyeshadow quad with beautiful shimmery colors including a soft ivory, gunmetal shimmer, medium bronze and reddish shimmer. With a brush they can apply on the medium to sheer side so I recommend either using a damp brush or layering on top of a cream shadow for more color. The quad can create a variety of looks depending how much red or gunmetal you use. I found they all layered well together.

Chanel Cruise Les 4 Ombres Eclat Enigmatique review

Le Volume Mascara in Gris Voile below. I’m always a fan of the Le Volume Mascara and was thrilled to find a waterproof version this season. Gris Voile is a greyish color almost with an olive green tint. On my lashes it looks pretty dark, not quite black, but it does look dark enough that it could pass for a light black color. I love this formula because it really does add volume without clumping. The waterproof version doesn’t smudge on me.

Chanel Le Volume Waterproof Mascara Gris Voile

Chanel Cruise Eclat Enigmatique and Gris Voile swatches | The Beauty Look Book

There are three Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colors in Halo which is a baby pink, Legerete a dusty green, and Chicness a medium purple mauve cream. As much as I adore Chanel nail polishes to me these have to be some of the most boring colors I’ve seen. The quality and smoothness is on point and excellent but these colors just don’t excite me. Halo is a really pretty pink but very dupeable, it looks practically identical to some of the OPI Lisbon shades. Legerete and Chicness look like they are just different variations of New Dawn and Horizon Line from Fall-Winter. In all fairness the new colors do wear really well, I think I just expected something a little more fresh and unique.

Chanel Cruise Le Vernis Halo, Legerete and Chicness

Chanel Le Vernis Swatch Halo

Chanel Le Vernis Swatch Legerete

Chanel Le Vernis Swatch in Chicness

 

The L’Eau Tan Chanel Refreshing Self-Tanning Body Mist is an interesting product. It’s a body mist that is supposed to enhance your natural glow. It’s almost like the same concept as Dior Addict Lip Glows but for the body. It has a light fresh floral perfume scent that makes me feel like I’m on vacation mode. It can get a little sticky if you spray too much but within a few minutes skin looks like it has started to develop a natural glow. It’s not quite like a self tanner for me where you see dramatic results. It’s more subtle but this may react differently on you depending on how light or deep your skin is. It is refreshing smelling and feeling. I really like it.

Chanel L'Eau Tan Chanel Spray

Two Cruise Le Rouge Crayon de Couleurs are No 17 A La Rose and 19 Au Naturel. I also ordered one of the new neutral shades No 21 Warm Rosewood. In case you’re new to these and missed the first launch reviewed here these are amazing twist up pencils. They’re creamy, opaque, glossy and hydrating. A La Rose is a bright peachy pink, Au Naturel is a nude brown that pulls warm. Warm Rosewood isn’t part of cruise but it’s a gorgeous wearable nude pink.

Chanel Le Rouge Crayon A La Rose, Au Naturel, Warm Rosewood

Chanel Le Rouge Crayon A La Rose, Au Naturel, Warm Rosewood

Swatch comparisons to some other Le Rogue Crayons, Rouge Coco Stylos and the Sisley Phyto-Lip Twist in 19:

Chanel Le Rouge Crayon Lip Swatches Comparisons

Chanel Beauty Cruise Collection Review 2018 | The Beauty Look Book

Overall nice quality pieces that I think are very wearable for the upcoming season but classic enough to take you into fall. Individually the products are gorgeous, easy for me to wear and everything can be worked in with other makeup items from my current stash. However as a collection I don’t really feel like the colors are tied together that much for a cohesive theme but that’s just me. The nail colors were a disappointment for me simply because they look like recycled colors from past seasons. I still think Halo is really pretty, just not that unique.

The highlights for me are the Le Rouge Crayon de Couleurs in all three shades with Warm Rosewood being my new favorite everyday neutral pink. The new L’Eau Tan Chanel is really fun and I love the way it smells.

You can find the Chanel Cruise Collection out now. I believe most items are limited-edition. Available at Chanel, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue. Have you tried any of these pieces yet? What did you think?

 

L'Occitane

Refreshing Hydration with the L’Occitane Aqua Reotier Collection

June 1, 2018

 

New L’Occitane Aqua Reotier Collection Skincare

As warmer weather approaches I’ve found myself switching things up in skincare with products that will keep skin clean, fresh but also well hydrated. The new L’Occitane Aqua Reotier Collection does just that with five easy-to-use options with a water-based line. The skincare contains three key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and calcium-rich Réotier spring water. I’ve partnered with L’Occitane to put the collection to the test. I have been such a fan of L’Occitane skincare as a whole so was really excited to try their new launch. I even brought everything with me on my recent trip to NYC.

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The Aqua Reotier Water Gel Cleanser is my favorite item in the collection. It’s a foaming gel cleanser that lathers well and cleans the skin without any stripping. I find this perfect after workouts because it leaves the skin feeling calmer and refreshed. There’s no film left but the skin feels well hydrated and clean. It has a gentle aqua fresh scent that is not irritating.

Aqua Reotier Water Gel Cleanser review

 

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The Aqua Reotier Moisture Prep Essence is something they recommend as Step Two in using this line. You can also incorporate it into your regular skincare routine with other products. It’s a plumping essence that helps prepare the skin to absorb moisturizer better. A little goes a very long way so you only need a tiny bit to apply all over the face. This is a step I often neglect in skincare in general but every time I use an essence I always tell myself I should do it more often. Skin is left noticeably softer and moisturizer adheres and absorbs into the skin better.

L'Occitane Aqua Reotier Moisture Prep Essence

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Step 3 is a moisturizer and they have two options including the Aqua Reotier Thirst-Quenching Cream or Aqua Reotier Thirst-Quenching Gel. The cream is better for normal to dry skin or if you need extra moisture at night. It’s a softer cream that melts into the skin and leaves a nice veil of moisture all over. My preference is for the gel which contains micro-bubbles that burst once you apply on the skin. It has a nice medium to lightweight feel which has been perfect for humid Florida weather. It also wears well under my foundations.

 

L'Occitane Aqua Reotier Cream Moisturizer

Quick look at the texture of the gel vs. cream:

Aqua Reotier Thirst-Quenching Gel vs Cream

L'Occitane Aqua Reotier Collection

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I’m one of the biggest suckers for face mists, especially ones with good packaging and the Aqua Reotier Fresh Moisturizing Mist does not disappoint. It spritzes a super fine even mist. The spray can be a quick burst or a little more continuous if you want to cover your whole face. It’s nicely hydrating without feeling heavy and doesn’t leave you looking too dewy.

L'Occitane Aqua Reotier Fresh Mist

 

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New L’Occitane Aqua Reotier Collection Skincare

 

Bottom line perfect for the upcoming warmer months. The products are light enough to be suitable for warm temperatures but still have enough moisture to keep skin well hydrated. I don’t think I’ll be able to live without the cleanser or face mist. You can find all the items at L’Occitane and there is a value set available as well. Stay tuned for more on my NY trip including a look at their Flatiron Flagship Store!

Sponsored by L’Occitane.

By Terry Suncare

By Terry Sun Designer Palettes Hippy Chic + Happy Sun and UV Base Sunscreen Cream SPF 50

May 25, 2018

By Terry Sun Designer Palette Hippy Chic, Happy Sun and UV Base Sunscreen Cream SPF50

There are new launches from By Terry and today I’m rounding up three of them including her two new Sun Designer Palettes in Hippy Chic + Happy Sun ($55 each for 15 g/0.53 oz) along with the new UV Base Sunscreen Cream SPF 50 ($55 for 1 fl oz/30 ml). After a few recent launches I felt were a bit meh, I’m thrilled to report these three items are excellent on all counts.

Up first are the two new Sun Designer Palettes. This is her third launch of these palettes previously reviewed here and here. The two options fall into the medium category – not too pale and not too deep. For me both are perfect for my complexion now and will work well into the summer when I become more tan. I purchased both sight unseen and I think these are easily the best ones she has launched yet. The pigment and color payoff is the same as previous palettes even though the price point has dropped drastically. The formula seems to have changed slightly and the powders have an almost creamy feel. The shimmers are very finely mixed pressed together. Since the pans are all close together it’s going to be nearly impossible to not mix shades – but that is how I apply them for the face. For more detailed color pick-up I use the Laura Mercier Fan Brush or Wayne Goss Air Brush.

By Terry Sun Designer Palette Hippy Chic and Happy Sun

Hippy Chic is the brighter more rosy option. It has a mix of shimmers and mattes.

By Terry Sun Designer Palette in Hippy Chic

Colors include:

  • Shimmering pale pink
  • Shimmering pink gold
  • Pale baby pink
  • Rosy coral matte
  • Shimmering peachy orange
  • Matte cool pink rose

By Terry Sun Designer Palette in Hippy Chic swatches

By Terry Sun Designer Palette in Hippy Chic swatches

Above also wearing Chanel Sublimage Le Teint in 40, MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural in Medium Golden, Hippy Chic Palette on the cheeks, Tom Ford Eyeshadow Quad in Golden Mink, Tom Ford Waterproof Extreme Mascara, Pat McGrath Luxetrance Lipstick in Valetta + LUST: Gloss in Flesh Astral on top. Top from Free People. As you can see the colors can be blended out for a softer look. You can also layer them for more intensity but the overall finish is going to be more natural.

Happy Sun is like my dream neutral palette come true with tan and beige and soft warm gold tones.

By Terry Sun Designer Palette in Happy Sun swatches

Colors include:

  • Shimmery sand champagne
  • Shimmery medium tan
  • Shimmering golden beige
  • Matte brown tan
  • Soft matte pink beige
  • Soft matte warm neutral peach-tan

By Terry Sun Designer Palette in Happy Sun swatches

By Terry Sun Designer Palette in Happy Sun swatches

Some swatch comparisons to two other Sun Designer Palette launches, By Terry Hippy Chic vs. Savannah Love (still available here):

By Terry Hippy Chic vs. Savannah Love

By Terry Happy Sun vs. Light and Tan Vibes:

By Terry Happy Sun vs. Light and Tan Vibes:

Up next is the By Terry UV Base Sunscreen Cream with SPF50. I’ve been testing several face sunscreens this spring and this is one of them. Roundup to follow soon. This is described as an invisible sunscreen primer and it truly is that. It has a white almost gel-like texture and once blended disappears completely into the skin. When brands say their sunscreen is “invisible” I find around half the time they are not. Since I have tan skin most still leave a white cast. This one truly disappears 100%. It has no flash back in photographs. Active Ingredients are Avobenzone 3%, Octinoxate 6.8%, Octisalate 4.5%. Rest of ingredients listed here and here.

By Terry UV Base Sunscreen Cream Review

The sunscreen does have a fragrance to it which is hard to describe but it’s a soft floral non-sunscreen like scent. I want to say it smells a little like a floral almond but I can’t quite put my finger on it. It’s fairly strong but not irritating to the nose or skin. As one who is sensitive to sunscreens I found this did not irritate or clog my pores. It layered well over moisturizer without pilling and worked with a wide range of foundations.

Swatches below, left to right is straight from the tube, blended a little, then blended even more:

By Terry UV Base Sunscreen Cream Review

By Terry Sun Designer Palette Hippy Chic, Happy Sun and UV Base Sunscreen Cream SPF50

Items also shown in top photo and rest of the post: Chanel Rouge Coco Gloss in 786, Laura Mercier Fan Brush, Wayne Goss Air Brush, Tory Burch Sienna Sandals (I’d recommend going up 1/2 a size from your normal Tory Burch sizing), sunglasses from J.Crew (old style), sun hat from Nordstrom (old style, similar here), By Terry Lash Expert Mascara (review here, I’ve made this work by layering it on top of a waterproof mascara), Byredo Blanche Perfume.

Overall thumbs up on all three new items. I’m happy with both of my palette purchases and was thrilled to get a sample of the new sunscreen. I highly recommend all three.

You can find By Terry online at Nordstrom, Space NK, Bloomingdale’s, Barneys New York, Beautylish.

Sunscreen is a press sample. Palettes purchased by me.

 

Tom Ford Beauty

Tom Ford Lip Lacquer Extreme and Lip Lacquer Review

May 23, 2018

Tom Ford Lip Lacquer Extreme and Lip Lacquer Review + Swatches

Tom Ford Beauty launched some new lip gloss formulas this year. This first round included Lip Lacquers in three finishes in MattesPatents and Metals ($54 each for 0.09 fl oz/2.7 ml). The second round of launches included a very different kind of foiled metallic formula called the Lip Lacquer Extreme ($54 each for 0.09 fl oz/2.7 ml). The formulas are very different in all the finishes but all of the glosses come in a small sleek tube with a sponge tip applicator. First a quick look at all the colors side by side then more details and descriptions below. Left to right: Panty Pink, Cameo, Torch, Slicker, Hot Rod, Pink Sabre, Universal Appeal and Pussycat.

Tom Ford Lip Lacquer Extreme and Lip Lacquer Review + Swatches Panty Pink, Cameo, Torch, Slicker, Hot Rod, Pink Sabre, Universal Appeal, Pussycat

Tom Ford Lip Lacquer Extreme and Lip Lacquer Review + Swatches Panty Pink, Cameo, Torch, Slicker, Hot Rod, Pink Sabre, Universal Appeal, Pussycat

Lip Lacquer Extreme

Up first are the Lip Lacquer Extremes. These are exclusive to Neiman Marcus along with the rest of the Extreme Collection. The products come in silver packaging. They don’t have a strong scent to them but they do smell like makeup.

Tom Ford Lip Lacquer Extreme

These lacquers are very trendy and metallic. There are some purple shades that I received as part of a press package but felt they were too trendy for me so I’m reviewing the ones I think are more wearable. The formula is very thin and dries like a liquid lipstick. The trick to applying these is similar to what I think applying nail polish is – you have to do it in layers letting the first layer dry completely before applying the next. It’s also similar to if you’re painting your house – do it in layers. If you apply like a regular lip product, the brush will pull color from the center. I find two layers gets full smooth coverage, otherwise it will be streaky. Out of all the colors I think Hot Rod is the best – it reminds me of MAC “O” lipstick but a little softer and more rose. Once they set they stay put all day long without budging.

  • Panty Pink is a bright neon pink
  • Cameo is a pale metallic peach
  • Torch is a hot orange neon
  • Slicker is a bright red
  • Hot Rod is a perfect metallic rose

Tom Ford Lip Lacquer Extreme swatches

Lip Lacquer

Up next are three of the Lip Lacquers in one Metal Pink Sabre and two Mattes Universal Appeal, Pussycat. So many of you asked me to review these and I wasn’t going to because none of the colors looked neutral enough for everyday. Once I received a dozen DMs and e-mails I decided to investigate picking the ones I felt were most neutral. I did swatch them at the counter as well and love the Patent and Metal finishes. I hope they expand the color range to include lighter shades, if they did a Pink Dusk or Sable Smoke lip stick in gloss form I would be SO happy. The Lip Lacquers smell just like the lipsticks and have a soft vanilla scent.

Tom Ford Lip Lacquer Pink Sabre, Universal Appeal and PussycatMy picks:

  • Pink Sabre is a metallic rose with a thick opaque high shine, this one looks darker on my complexion than it looks in the tube
  • Universal Appeal is the perfect nude, it’s sold out almost everywhere I looked so I ordered it online, currently still available at Saks and Bloomingdales, on back order at Neiman Marcus
  • Pussycat is a perfect everyday rose but it does darken on the lips since it’s a matte finish, I wish this came in the patent formula as the color is so perfect but I’m not a fan of mattes

Tom Ford Lip Lacquer Pink Sabre, Universal Appeal and Pussycat swatches

Tom Ford Lip Lacquers and Extreme

Overall pros are lasting power and pigment. The Lip Lacquer Extremes are going to be tricky to apply as they’re very metallic and I don’t think they’re everyday kind of colors. I do think the exception is Hot Rod. For the regular Lip Lacquers I think the mattes are going to be great for those who like liquid lipsticks. I find them to be among the better formulas for mattes as they don’t make my lips shrink or look like raisins. The metallic formula is pretty thick although it’s not too tacky, I think it has great color payoff and wear. It’s going to be nice for going out for me, but it’s too thick for everyday especially in hot South Florida weather. In testing all the colors I found that they did not dry out my lips.

Bottom line is there are good things about the glosses but in general I find that I like Tom Ford’s regular lipsticks a whole lot more. For gloss I prefer other formulas like the Becca Glow Lip Gloss or Pat McGrath LUST Glosses although comparing them isn’t really like comparing apples to apples. The formulas are too different.

Still because certain colors are so perfect, I’m giving Hot Rod and Universal Appeal a huge thumbs up.

You can find the Tom Ford Lip Lacquers at Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdales, Sephora, Saks Fifth Avenue and other Tom Ford counters. The Lip Lacquer Extreme is a Neiman Marcus exclusive.

Extremes provided courtesy of Tom Ford for review. Lip Lacquers purchased by me.

NARS

NARS x Erdem Strange Flowers Collection Review

May 18, 2018

NARS x Erdem Strange Flowers Collection Review

NARS x Erdem released a beautiful collection of limited-edition pieces called NARS x Erdem Strange Flowers. I was lucky to receive the entire collection for review in a beautiful press box but when the package arrived all the powders were shattered! I ordered replacements and it’s taken me a while to get everything reviewed and swatched so I apologize for the delay. You can still find all the pieces although some things have sold out at a few retailers. All the colors are truly unique and I feel like everything is like a piece of art from the packaging and design. The vibe has more of a fall feel to me rather than spring or summer but the shades are still very wearable pieces that you can pull off right now. In the collection:

NARS x Erdem Strange Flowers Collection review via The Beauty Look Book

Up first are the products for the face. The two NARS x Erdem blushes which I think are both just so beautiful! Loves Me Not is a pale lavender pink with finely milled shimmer. On my tan skin it’s almost like a sheer highlighter. It layers nicely with other colors or works to diffuse harsh lines. Loves Me is a warm strawberry pink shimmer. It’s fairly pigmented so I recommend using a fluffy brush to apply and layer. As a quick FYI these seem to be the items selling out the fastest so if you want to prioritize purchases, you might want to start there.

There is also a Multi-Use Highlighting Pencil called White Phox which is a pale white that flashes lavender/opal. It has a nice sheen when blended with a velvety matte finish. I like this on the eyes! (Swatches below, actual product photo of the pencil one section down.)

NARS x Erdem Strange Flowers Collection Blushes Loves Me Not and Loves Me

NARS x Erdem Strange Flowers Collection Blushes Loves Me Not and Loves Me

The Lip Powder Palette in Poison Rose was so interesting to me. I’ve never tried a lip powder and at first I thought they were mini blushes. The palette as a gorgeous peachy pink nude Lip Priming Balm (I wish this was available in full size). I was really skeptical about how these would work but it’s really a beautiful palette with stunning colors. I layered the powders on top of the balm and the result is a soft velvety matte lip look. Almost like a natural lipstick stain with a velvety finish. The other colors include Zira (metallic peach), Calypso (perfect mauve), Damask (magenta) and Ottoman (red).

NARS Poison Rose Lip Powder Palette Review

NARS Poison Rose Lip Powder Palette swatches

NARS Poison Rose Lip Powder Palette swatches

The two NARS x Erdem Strange Flowers Eyeshadow Palettes have excellent pigment, texture and lasting power. They’re soft and easy to blend. I gravitated towards the softer version Fleur Fatale which has a shimmering ivory, shimmering grey taupe, soft dove grey blue shimmer, soft matte grey-brown, shimmering mauve tan, shimmery wine plum. The other option Night Garden has a shimmering oyster, deep forest green shimmer, bright yellow shimmer, deep matte brown, shimmery navy and dark charcoal. In a beauty world where we seem to be bombarded with warm orange shadows it’s nice and refreshing for us cool-toned neutral lovers to have something else to wear that’s new! (I still love the NARSissist Wanted Eyeshadow Palette for a warmish kind of palette.)

NARS x Erdem Strange Flowers Eyeshadow Palettes Fleur Fatale and Night Garden

NARS x Erdem Strange Flowers Eyeshadow Palettes Fleur Fatale and Night Garden swatches

Last but not least are the NARS x Erdem Lipsticks which surprised me. At first glance they did not seem like wearable colors for my complexion. Some of them are sheer in finish which makes them look different in the tube than what you see on the face. I love all of the colors except for one. Shades include:

  • Moon Orchid which is a sheer soft pink
  • Carnal Carnation which has a sheer bright pink finish
  • Voodoo Lily is almost clear but gives me a nude lip but better mauve
  • Larkspur is a sheer magenta mauve, pulls pinkish on me
  • Wild Flower is the only color I did not like, it’s a sheer deep purple that applied patchy
  • Bloodflower is a pigmented blood red

Texture is soft and easy to apply. I’ve found that some NARS lipsticks in the regular formula irritated my lips in the past, I am not sure if they changed the ingredients but I had no issue with these. I’ve been able to wear the Audacious lipstick formula without any issue, but at some point in the past the regular lipstick formula changed and I started getting swollen irritated lips. With these no allergic reaction, yay! I was also able to wear last year’s NARS Orgasm lipstick with issue as well. As with most sheers lasting power is going to be average/medium. I found these comfortable and non-drying.

NARS x Erdem Strange Flower Lipsticks Moon Flower, Carnal Carnation, Voodoo Lily, Larkspur, Wild Flower and Bloodflower

NARS x Erdem Strange Flower Lipsticks Moon Flower, Carnal Carnation, Voodoo Lily, Larkspur, Wild Flower and Bloodflower swatches

NARS x Erdem Strange Flower Lipsticks Moon Flower, Carnal Carnation, Voodoo Lily, Larkspur, Wild Flower and Bloodflower swatches

A quick note on the Blotting Papers, I found them nice and handy to have in my bag. They do work well to blot shine and oil without leaving any powdery white film like some do. At the end of the day I’m still a loyal fan of the ones from Tatcha but the NARS packaging is really pretty.

NARS x Erdem Strange Flowers Collection review

NARS x Erdem Strange Flowers Collection review via The Beauty Look Book

Bottom line beautiful! The winners to me are the Fleur Fatale Palette, Moon Orchid Lipstick, Poison Flower Lip Powder Palette and both Loves Me and Loves Me Not Blushes. To me these are gorgeous edgy colors that are on trend but not so trendy that I can’t wear them for everyday.

The entire collection is limited-edition. Available online and in stores at NARS Cosmetics, Nordstrom, Sephora, Neiman Marcus, Barneys New York and Saks Fifth Avenue.

P.S. Not related to this review, but I’m starting up my weekly giveaways again! Details on this page here.

NARS x Erdem collection provided courtesy of NARS for review. All the palettes repurchased by me.

 

Becca Lips

Becca Glow Lip Gloss Review + Swatches

May 16, 2018

Becca Glow Lip Gloss Review and Swatches

My lip gloss loving self is overjoyed these days because gloss seems to be back! Becca launched a new Glow Lip Gloss ($22 for 0.18 oz/5 g) in ten colors. They’re a conditioning lip gloss that has the coverage of a natural medium-pigmented lipstick with a soft shine but cream finish. If you like a gloss that doesn’t have a super high shine but more  of a natural shine these are the glosses for you.

The Becca Glow Lip Glosses have a soft mint scent and apply very smoothly on the lips. There’s enough density so they won’t slide off the lips like other glosses but they aren’t super thick and they feel comfortable on. Becca says they have 3D light reflecting pigments and ginger + peppermint oil. The colors were inspired by their best selling Shimmering Skin Perfector Highlighters and Luminous Blush shades so you can match your lip and cheek color.

Every single color is perfect. Pigment is natural but rich enough to cover the whole lip. There are lighter nudes in the collection that are wearable and do not wash my complexion out (yay!). All the shades are nice for everyday and there are a few bolder shades that can give a more dramatic look for something more fun. The packaging and design is the same as the Liquid Crystal Glow Glosses from last year, but the Glow Lip Gloss colors are a lot more wearable.

The product comes with an angled sponge tip applicator with a point for precise application. Colors descriptions and swatches below:

  • Rose Quartz is a soft cool light pink shimmer
  • Camellia is a cool-toned bright pink
  • Snapdragon is a medium coral pink
  • Opal is a nude opal pink shimmer
  • Foxglove is a perfect berry mauve
  • Champagne Creme is a shimmering gold
  • Tigerlily is a coral peach shimmer
  • Rose Gold is a neutral tan beige
  • Chocolate Geode is a chocolate sparkle
  • Dahlia is a plum (plums always look more red on my lips)

Becca Glow Lip Gloss in Rose Quartz, Camellia, Snapdragon, Opal, Foxglove, Champagne Creme, Tigerlily, Rosegold, Chocolate Geode and Dahlia

Becca Glow Lip Gloss swatches

Becca Glow Lip Gloss swatches

Close ups of each shade, let me know if you want me to keep doing these larger lip swatches or if you prefer the side by side better. Rose Quartz:

Becca Glow Gloss Rose Quartz

Becca Glow Gloss Rose Quartz

Camellia:

Becca Glow Gloss Camellia

Becca Glow Gloss Camellia swatch

Snapdragon:

Becca Glow Gloss Snapdragon

Becca Glow Gloss Snapdragon swatch

Opal:

Becca Glow Gloss Opal

Becca Glow Lip Gloss Opal swatch

Foxglove:

Becca Glow Lip Gloss Foxglove

Becca Glow Lip Gloss Foxglove swatch

Champagne Creme:

Becca Glow Lip Gloss Champagne Creme

Becca Glow Lip Gloss Champagne Creme

Tigerlily:

Becca Glow Lip Gloss Tigerlily

Becca Glow Lip Gloss Tigerlily

Rose Gold:

Becca Glow Lip Gloss Rose Gold

Becca Glow Lip Gloss Rose Gold

Chocolate Geode:

Becca Glow Lip Gloss Chocolate Geode

Becca Glow Lip Gloss Chocolate Geode

Dahlia:

Becca Glow Lip Gloss Dahlia

Becca Glow Lip Gloss Dahlia swatch

Swatches of the gloss next to the corresponding Shimmering Skin Perfector (also reviewed here) or Luminous Blush (review here).

Becca Glow Lip Gloss and SSP Swatches Rose Quartz, Camellia, Snapdragon, Opal and Foxglove

Becca Glow Lip Gloss and SSP Swatches

I cannot pick a favorite, every single color is perfect. I do find myself drawn to Opal, Foxglove, Snapdragon and Tigerlily though. A full look wearing the Becca Glow Lip Gloss + Shimmering Skin Perfector pressed in Opal:

  • Foundation: La Prairie Skin Caviar Foundation + Concealer in Satin Nude (review here)
  • Powder: Armani Luminous Silk Powder Foundation in #4
  • Cheeks: Becca Sunlit Bronzer in Bronzed Bondi (swatches of all the colors here)
  • Highlighter: Shimmering Skin Perfector in Opal (review + swatch comparisons here)
  • Eyeshadow: Pat McGrath MTHRSHP Eyeshadow Palette in Platinum Bronze (review here)
  • Brow: Hourglass Arch Brow Volumizing Fiber Gel in Soft Brunette
  • Lips: Becca Glow Lip Gloss in Opal
  • Top: Tie Front Tank by 1.STATE

Becca Glow Lip Gloss in Opal

Bottom line lots to love. The color is perfect, pigment is smooth and flawless, texture is comfortable. Lasting power is average for a gloss but with these I don’t mind reapplying. Moisturizing properties are medium – on the lips they feel good and the formula did not dry out my lips or make them peel the next day, but they aren’t as hydrating as a lip balm. I think these are perfect year round but the colors have that fresh spring to summer vibe that adds life to the face without overdoing the color.

You can find the Becca Glow Lip Gloss out now, available at Becca Cosmetics, Nordstrom, Sephora and Ulta Beauty.

Becca glosses provided courtesy of Becca Cosmetics for review.

 

Chanel Skincare

Chanel Cleansing Collection Review

May 15, 2018

Chanel Cleansing Collection Review

Chanel just launched a collection of six new cleansers, toners and make up removers in The Chanel Cleansing Collection. Each item is designed to be suitable for all skin types in multiple formula options. I was lucky to get an early sneak peek and have been testing these over the last month. As a cleanser fanatic I was really excited to try these and think there are some really lovely options in this launch.

The new skincare is designed to be used with a few different combinations for fresh clean skin. They’re quite versatile so you can mix and match however you want or simply just incorporate one into your routine if you have other skincare you use. After a few weeks of testing I have my favorites. With all the cleansers I found they were thorough without being stripping. They leave the skin feeling very refreshed and clean and soft. The one thing that impressed me the most was the packaging. I’m a huge sucker for good packaging even if it’s simple, the cleansers come with a really well designed pump and the size of the bottles are very generous. I also like that they are sized to fit easily in my small hand.

L’Huile Anti-Pollution Cleansing Oil

Up first is my favorite item in the launch which is the L’Huile Anti-Pollution Cleansing Oil. It’s a silky-smooth cleansing oil which has a soft feel. I’m a huge fan of testing cleansing oils and love the ones that feel ultra silky smooth like the SK-II Facial Treatment Oil or Tom Ford Cleansing Oil. The Chanel has a very light scent to it that did not irritate my skin. If I compare it to other Chanel skincare it has a refreshing smell similar to the Hydramax line but isn’t as potent. It leaves the skin makeup-free and smooth. If you love the Le Blanc Brightening Tri-Phase Makeup Remover which is a cleanser that transforms from a gel to oil to lotion and rinses off to remove makeup you will also love the new L’Huile. The cleansing oil is more fluid while the Le Blanc is thicker so it doesn’t run into the eyes. The Le Blanc line also has brightening ingredients while the L’Huile is your standard cleansing oil.

Chanel L'Huile Cleansing Oil Review

Chanel L'Huile Cleansing Oil Review

Chanel La Mousse Anti-Pollution Cleansing Cream-to-Foam

Next is the Chanel La Mousse Anti-Pollution Cleansing Cream-to-Foam. I’ve tried several of Chanel’s foaming cleansers from past formulations and liked them but did not love them as I typically find mousse cleansers too stripping for the skin. This one is perfect though and especially with the humid weather returning this leaves my skin extra clean. All the cleansers in this collection have what Chanel calls “depolluting blue micro-algae and fortifying marine salicornia extract.” After regular use I do feel like my skin is cleaner and less congested. This is a purifying cleanser that feels like it cleans out all the junk in my pores. If you have normal to oily skin that is acne-prone I think this will be a great option for you. I didn’t use this one morning and night as my skin is fairly decent these days. In general I use different cleansers for morning vs night or after a workout. This one for me is great after a sweating workout or at the end of the day to really cleanse the skin.

Chanel La Mousse Cleansing Cream-To-Foam Cleanser Review

Chanel La Mousse Cleansing Cream-To-Foam Cleanser Review

Le Tonique Anti-Pollution Invigorating Toner

I haven’t explored much in the Chanel toner world. I did use the Le Blanc Brightening Lotion for a while in place of toner and loved it. I used up several bottles but eventually explored other options as it was more of a moisturizing toner rather than a balancing one. The new Le Tonique Anti-Pollution Invigorating Toner is an alcohol free toner and makes sure your skin is fully clean after you wash with a regular cleanser. I feel like I’m very thorough with my cleansing routine but there are times I don’t get all the dirt or makeup off. This is evident by using a toner afterwards on a soaked cotton pad (Chanel’s Le Coton is among my favorite) and wiping my face. There are times I see remnants of makeup on the pad. In the morning this almost wakes up the skin because of the refreshing feel and at night it will ensure all traces of makeup are gone after you cleanse.

Chanel Le Tonique Anti-Pollution Invigorating Toner

Cleansing Milks

Next are three types of cleansing milks. I have not been much of a cleansing milk fan, I typically prefer for gel, liquid, or foaming cleansers since I have normal combination skin. If you’ve ever had a Chanel makeover you have probably tried one of the milks before. They massage it into dry skin and remove with a damp cotton pad or one soaked with one of their toners. It leaves the skin feeling well hydrated and supple. Over the past year I have experimented more with cleansing milks from other brands as they’re great if you have dry skin. It’s almost like it’s a double-duty product in the sense that it cleanses and moisturizes at the same time. Chanel has 3 different cleansing milks with different textures. The Le Lait Anti-Pollution Cleansing Milk is a traditional one in the sense that it is a milky smooth cleanser. To use these in the morning you can apply on dry skin, massage and then remove with a toner-soaked cotton pad. If you use this at night I’d recommend removing your face makeup first with a cleansing water on a cotton pad so it’s less messy. This one feels the most hydrating to me with skin left very moisturized after removal.

Le Lait Anti-Pollution Cleansing Milk

Le Lait Anti-Pollution Cleansing Milk

Cleansing Milk-to-Water

Le Lait Fraicher D’Eau Anti-Pollution Cleansing Milk-To-Water has a lighter and less dense texture as you can see in the swatch below. It has the lightest feel out of the 3 cleansing milks. This was my favorite of the three. It leaves the skin feeling very smooth and ultra soft.

Chanel Cleansing Milk-To-Water

Chanel Cleansing Milk-To-Water

Cleansing Milk-to-Oil

Le Lait Doucer D’Huile Anti-Pollution Cleansing Milk-To-Oil has a slightly thicker texture than the Milk-to-Water but isn’t as dense as the Cleansing Milk. This transforms into an oil once you massage it into the skin. They recommend you remove with just a cotton pad but I’d recommend soaking it with a toner or cleansing water to help remove it.

Chanel Cleansing Milk to Oil Review

Chanel Cleansing Milk to Oil Review

Ingredients from the boxes:

Chanel Cleansing Collection Ingredients

Chanel Cleansing Collection Ingredients

My favorite three items are the new Le Tonique, L’Huile and the Cleansing Cream-to-Foam and have already started incorporating them into my daily skin care routine. If you try one item I’d recommend you try the L’Huile Cleansing Oil as it’s really lovely! I think the three cleansing milk formulas are really interesting and unique based on the different textures. I’m still not sure that I’m a cleansing milk kind of person but they do leave the skin feeling very soft and hydrated. If you haven’t tried the Chanel Coton I recommend you do, it’s pricey but has been my favorite face cotton for as long as I can remember.

Chanel Cleansing Collection Review

The Chanel Cleansing Collection is available now at Chanel.com and all Chanel counters.

Cleanser Collection provided courtesy of Chanel for review.