Friday, September 26, 2008

MAC Suite Array Eyeshadows Suite and Pearlglide Eyeliners (Swatches)

Release Date: September 25, 2008

Click on the images to enlarge..


I was actually kinda sad with the fact that I didn't get my swatches with Vanessa :(. We usually go together everytime MAC has a new released collection, but she had some business to take care of after work. So, I went right after work... by myself. It was definitely weird and not so much fun.

Anyway, I didn't get to swatch the Gold Fever collection because apparently my Nordies didn't have them out yet.

The new Suite Array collection didn't really grab my attention at all. The eyeshadow combination actually reminds me of NARS except when it comes to the quality of the MAC eyeshadows, they are more matte, chalky, and sheer. It's really hard to pick the color from the pan, and once it's applied it's more glittery than it is pigmented. I needed to really put some pressure onto my fingers for just the eyeshadow to show up. They just didn't strike me as worth it.

The Pearlglide eyeliners however have nice pigmentation. Although, they're creamy in a sense that it will budge if you try rubbing it off, yet it's hard to take off (if that made any sense) that soap and water won't just cut it. These eyeliners are almost like the Urban Decay 24/7 eyeliners in my opinion.
So what do you think for MAC's 293274x collection? Was it strikingly beautiful enough for you? Or is it a complete miss?
Share:

Swatches: MAC Cremesheen Lipsticks

Release Date: September 25, 2008

Here are some swatches for the new MAC Cremesheen lipstick. These lipsticks were said to be replacements for the amplified lipstick formula and is going to be part of the permanent line.

Click on the images to enlarge...



Share:

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

DentaBurst Freshening Teeth Cleaners (Review)

I've been meaning to do a review on these since I received them from Amber (orginal post). You can check out Ate RenRen's review on these previously on her blog.

What they say about it:DENTABURST® is a great new way to primp your smile, anytime, anywhere!

DENTABURST® refreshes and energizes you with a burst of confidence whenever you need it.

DENTABURST® helps you remove plaque from the surfaces of your teeth, leaving them feeling smooth and clean.

Price: $2.99 (pack of 12)


Available at: Target, CVS, and RiteAid






Dentaburst Freshning Teeth Cleaners
Quality: 4 out 5
Price: 5 out of 5
Packaging: 5 out 5

Overall: 4.6 out of 5
What I like about it: Dentaburst are conveniently and individually packed so you can easily stash them in your purse or pocket. It's perfect for a night out especially when you're out going clubbing and having a ginormous purse is not an option. You can pretty much stash one packet somewhere because they're so thin and discreet. It's great for places where they check your purse, and you're not allowed to have gum with you (i.e. certain clubs). It's also great for traveling whether you'd be on a plane or a car especially on long road trips. I don't know if it's just me... but sometimes when I (did) chew gum during a long car ride, I get pretty nauseous. Dentaburst has become a great alternative for me.
Unlike gums and mints, this doesn't mask the whatever funky smell you're trying to get rid off (especially if you had some onions in your burger for lunch). It really freshens your breath. I'm sure you guys know that chewing gum and mints actually makes your breath worse. Sure it's minty fresh once you pop one in your mouth, but after awhile, your breath will still stink. Why? Because gums and mints has sugar in it. Being that I currently have braces, I'm suppose to avoid gums at all cost because it will breakdown the glue on my braces, and not to mention get it stuck somewhere and cause all sorts of grief. I don't like mints as well because like I mentioned, it leaves a yucky taste on my mouth after awhile probably because of the sugar. So I usually just brush my teeth after lunch. But DentaBurst really does come in handy when your in places that brushing your teeth might be a bit odd (especially in public bathrooms, umm gross?). It only gives me a fresh and minty feeling on my mouth minus the chewing and dissolving of mints in my mouth.
Don't get me wrong, but I wouldn't completely ditch the idea of brushing your teeth (because that will be dumb), but it's also perfect when you ended up sleeping over someone else's house (with whatever reason you ended up being there), and your toothbrush is not readily available. Open one of these and you're breath isn't kicking nasty.

What I dont like about it: Being said that I do have braces, it might not be a smart move to use it on your teeth. I tried it out, and the fibers of the scrubbing part of Dentaburst started getting caught on my braces. So I had to lose the idea of doing that. However, it's still great for the roof of your mouth and to clean your tongue.
Another minor rant about it is how it loosely fits on my fingers. As the boyfriend suggested, maybe they should have at least 3 (small, medium, large) different sizes available to cater to different finger sizes.
I also don't like the possible stares you might get if you do use this in public. I suggest doing it in the restroom or at least be discreet about it. People might start thinking your brushing your teeth with your finger and toothpaste (technically you are though).

Would I buy this again: Most definitely especially when I get my braces off. They're definitely the better alternative in freshening your breath and super handy dandy. They also don't take so much space and no jiggling noise of the sound of mints hitting the pan in your purse. I might not have bought this on my own, but after trying them out, I've been using them since. You'll definitely find this on my purse.
Share:

Sunday, September 14, 2008

NARS Duo Eye Shadow in Mediteranee (Review)

What they say about it: Same longwearing crease resistant formula as the NARS Single Eyeshadow, in a series of uniquely paired color combinations. Worn together or alone, all eyeshadows can be applied sheer or built up for a more dramatic effect. All powder eyeshadows can be used wet or dry.

Richly pigmented powders
Effortless blending; coordinated in fashionable pairs
Multifunction: use as eyeshadow, eyeliner or on eyebrows

Price: $32 USD

Available at: NARScosmetics.com, Sephora, Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, Saks Fifth Avenue, and other leading department stores.


What I like about it: It's buttery soft! It glides like no other. It's highly pigmented that there's really no need to dig through the pan to get a good color payoff, and each duo are matched perfectly that it's a no brainer when it comes to eye color combinations. The eye shadows are also easily blendable, so layering is a cinch, yet the colors doesn't fade after blending.

Every time I've been at Sephora, I had my eye on this particular eyeshadow. I swatched it a million times (ok I'm exaggerating) while I thought about it long and hard if it was worth it or not only to ended up falling in love with the color even more. Yes it's orange, but it's not your kind of orange that is obnoxiously bright that you'll probably wear once in your life. Mediteranee is your wearable type of orange with gold specks, without the annoying chunks of glitter. It looks good in the pan just as much as its on your eyes. This color combo is also a nice addition to your fall makeup look.



*I forgot to watermark these pictures -____-*


What I don't like about it: Obviously, the price. The price is pretty steep for two colors of eye shadows, but it should be expected in a high-end makeup. But I thought about it this way, $32 divided by two is $16. So technically, you are only paying $2 more for each eye shadow than MAC potted eye shadows, but the quality you're getting with NARS is way better. However, compared to the color selections you get with MAC and NARS, MAC definitely has more colors of the rainbow available especially when they come out with limited edition colors.

Although the packaging is cute in appearance, the texture of the casing will attract powder in it that it can get it to look kinda dirty after awhile. It might be harder to clean it since it's foam-like material, so it probably won't hurt if they're kept in the box if you care for them that much.

Would I buy it again: You bet I will! Although I probably won't buy too many of it at the same time since it's not exactly inexpensive. But I wouldn't mind spending a few more bucks on colors that I think that I will be frequently using and reaching out for. You're not only paying for the brand, but the quality it comes with. I've already used my Mediteranee eye shadow twice, and I've already gotten compliments on how my eye make up looks like (coming from TWO Dior MUA :] from my recent trip to Nordies). Since these eye shadows are really super easy to blend, there's really no need to be in front of the mirror trying to blend the heck out of these eye shadows. I would recommend these eye shadows for the people who are ready to branch out to higher end makeup.

And here's a sample of my eye makeup using this duo eyeshadow:




Share:

Thursday, September 11, 2008

MANDOM Cleansing Express Cleansing Lotion Sebum (Review)

Ok, try saying that really fast ten times while patting your head and rubbing your belly ... walking.

I've been on a look out for a good eye makeup remover that takes every bit of make up off and easy on the wallet. I fell in love with the Lancome Bifacil makeup remover when I got a sample from those gift with purchases. Everything is all fine and dandy. Your make up comes off really well, but once you hit the bottom, then time to dish out the cash. As much as I love the product, I wasn't just willing to pay that much for an eyemakeup remover. I know there are alternatives out there. It was just a matter of finding it where.

Then the Pow Wow comes along, it was fate! I picked xPpinkxx's name out of the basket during the Yankee Swap. First item she pulls out in the shopping bag was her holy grail makeup remover. She said I will love it and it's the best makeup remover ever. And after some time of putting this to the test, here is my final verdict.

What they say about it: MANDOM Cleansing Express Cleansing Lotion Sebum is a water-base make-up remover. This can remove even water-proof mascara with ease. Tones your skin while cleansing. It instantly floats out make-up, dirt deep in pores, and wrinkly skin. Contains soybean essence extract for cleansing and moisturizing. There is no rinsing or double-cleansing is necessary. After you wipe-off with this make-up remover it makes your skin smooth and refresh. You will see visibly improved skin with continued use.no color added, no fragrance, 100% oil free, alcohol free10.58fl.oz(300ml)

Directions: Apply 2~3 pumps into cotton and apply onto entire face. When the dirt and oil begin to rise and are visibly present in the cleanser, wash off thoroughly.

(Source)

Price: $10.99 (prices vary from store to store)

Available at: Marukai Market, Ohayousa.com




Cleansing Express Cleansing Lotion

Quality:
5 out 5
Price: 5 out of 5
Packaging: 4 out 5
Overall: 4.6 out of 5

What I like about it: Two pumps (or even one) in a cotton pad and your golden! It gets every bit of makeup off my face. Whether it be mascara or eyeshadow... it's gone (quicker than you can say what its called).

I swear it might as well be unicorn tears because it's that magical. The consistency and smell of the remover is like water. And since when did just "water" take off your full face? As much as I enjoy wearing makeup, I dread the end of the day when it comes right off. You gotta admit that even if you have a wipe next to your bed, you will still see residues the next morning. This is remover is definitely perfect for those long nights being out and about at the club or bar, partying your life away. You know you're dead tired once you get home and some of us are guilty of sleeping with make up on (yes, gross). With two pumps of this on a cotton pad, you can practically be half asleep and wipe your face clean. And it'll leave your face feeling so fresh and so clean. No oily residues. No makeup. No nothing. Just a clean, bare face ready to hit the sack. It will never leave your face tight and dry nor does it make your eyes bleed (read: sting).


As the direction tells you, you do still have to wash your face. Don't completely wipe out your cleansing routine, but this is really good for those lazy nights (and I hope that every night is NOT a lazy night).
This makeup remover also does not contain alcohol. It's amazing!!! I'm telling you it's like water (since when did water break people out? not unless it's dirty sewer water). It's perfect for people with sensitive skin and acne prone. I highly doubt (that's just my opinion) it'll irritate anyone's face using this because it's so gentle. I haven't experienced any breakouts while using this product which makes me love it even more. Oh, and unlike any other makeup removers, no bottle shaking is required.
The best part about it. It's inexpensive; $10.99 gets you 10.58 fl. oz which will last you for a long time (the bottle is pretty huge). It sure doesn't cost me an arm and a leg for something so effective and quick.

What I don't like about it: The bottle. The pump just doesn't cut it for me. Because the consistency is like water, when you squirt the remover out of the pump, do expect that it's going to miss your cotton pad. So I end up wasting some product because it lands on the floor. But if you slowly push the pump down, then it kinda solves the problem. But if you can transfer it to a better container then all the better.
I also don't like how it is not conveniently available in stores. The closest place that carries this to my place is quite a drive. But I really don't mind going for a drive if time comes that I do need to get a new bottle. Luckily; however, you can still buy this at Ohayousa.com.

Would I buy this again?: Thanks to Pink for getting me hooked on this. If it wasn't for the Pow Wow and the Yankee swap, I wouldn't have known that unicorn tears exist, let alone get a hold of one. If the company decides to stop production on these (God forbid), I will be stocking up on this by the boxes. I've never come across a makeup remover this good. It sure beats Lancome Bifacil hands down for both quality and price. My search for a good makeup remover ends here. It's a staple item in my skin care routine.
P.S. There's two versions of this makeup remover: Moist and Sebum. I'm assuming Moist is for dry skin while Sebum is for oily/combo skin. Only makes sense right?
Share:

Monday, September 08, 2008

Pressing Pigments using Coastal Scents EZ Prez Pressing Medium (Tutorial)

I finally got around to pressing my mineral makeup. I finally used up all 15 pans in one palette and I'm pretty happy with the results!!! I pressed most of my TKB Trading pigments (Pop! Sampler and Julie's Garden) for this batch.

Oh, by the way, this post is picture heavy!

I know I said this will be a tutorial, but as Vanessa has mentioned, there are already way too many videos on YouTube how to do this. I specifically like EnKore's pigment pressing video (he has a few) and used that as my inspiration. And yes, it's possible not to make a whole mess out of this project!

Here are some tips and tricks that I learned along in the process of pressing pigments. It doesn't really have to be messy thing to do at all! Being an organized and clean freak I am, I manage to do the task with minimal pigment mess all over my workspace (ummm... the kitchen :]).


TIP #1: Sanitize all your utensils. Especially the quarter you're using. Although I still wrapped mine in a cling plastic wrap (for easy cleaning), I sanitized it anyway in a small container with alcohol (make sure you cover the top so the alcohol won't evaporate if you leave it overnight). This includes your mixing bowl, spatulas, and pans. Wipe them all with alcohol before starting.


TIP #2: Use a glass container when mixing your pigments. When I was doing my first batch of pigments I used whatever I could find in the kitchen: extra cough syrup cup, dipping sauce container (edit: accidentally) jacked from a restaurant xP, and the pigment sample jar. First of all, any clear plastic cup like the cough syrup will stain over time as you keep mixing your pigments. It's also hard to pick up your pigment because it clings to the sides. The dipping sauce was too wide and just has too much space. On the other half, the pigment sample jar is too small that there's really no room to mix your pigments which is the greatest mess-maker of all!!! So these items for me were just a no-go anymore.


I found this glass candle holder at Michael's which I thought was the perfect size and shape to mix my pigments. It was also only 99 cents, so it's not like you'd be breaking the bank getting one of these.

Why a glass candle holder???
1. The diameter of the holder is not too small or big (if it's too big, you're more likely to use more pigments, and you really don't need a lot).
2. The sides of the holder is straight making it easier to scoop every bit (or at least most of it) of pigments.
3. Since it's made out of glass, the container can hold it's ground while you're mixing because it has some weight (so it's not moving around too much).
4. It's transparent. You can see every pigment you have inside, making it easier to scoop the hell out of your mixture and cleaning it.
5. It's easier to clean. Wipe it with tissue with some alcohol in it after each use. No need for a sink to wash and clean your mixing bowl.


TIP #3: Use a skinny spatula with a long handle. I tried mixing my pigments with a tiny spatula (see image above). I mean all is great in the beginnning, but once you hit the third or fourth mixture, your hands will be cramping. It's just harder to hold a tiny spatula while you're trying to mix your pigments. The first spatula's head that I used was too fat which made it difficult for me to mix and transfer the pigment to the pan.
Again, same trip to Michael's, I found these spatulas in the painter's aisle for a whopping $2!!! And it has six spatula head sizes. They do sell the metal ones as well individually, but that's more dinero. This is the cheapest one I can find.

I used the spatula with a diamond head out of the six. It was the perfect one, I think, because the tip is skinny which makes mixing easier and picking up and transferring the pigment and the sides are slanted, perfect when you scrape for all the goods stuck on the side of the glass container.



TIP #4: Use little at a time. Use only what you think you need. You don't really need a teaspoonful of pigment in one pan. I would estimate 1/4 teaspoon is pretty good (or 2-3 scoops using my old spatula pictured way above). You can always add more later. You don't want to fill the pan to the brim because it will overflow and you will make a big mess once you press it down. Same thing with your pressing medium. You don't want your mixture to be too dry to wet. The mixture is good if it has a dough-like look too it (it's like making bread!!).


So like this! See how the mixture is not too wet? There's not much product wasted either and it makes the container easier to clean.


How it should look like after you transferred the pigment to the pan. See how there's not much goop in there??



TIP #5: Clean the container and the spatula after each use. Just wipe it using a tissue and alcohol and your good to go. Wipe your spatula first, then your container (only makes sense right??). The alcohol will pick up the rest of the pigment left in the container and sanitizes it as well. Use tissues instead of papertowels. It's just less of a waste.
TIP #6: Tap the the pan help settle the pigment. Just kind drop the pan on a flat surface until it settles (don't drop it too high!). This also lessens the mess before you press it. It gives you an even distribution of the pigment




TIP #7: After the pigment settles, press it with a papertowel using a quarter. It'll pick up the excess liquid in the mixture that helps cut drying time. It's also to compact the pigments together before creating those hatches.


Line them up! See even this step I try to keep it organized. Make sure after each use the colored part is facing up. Facing it down to the surface will kinda make the papertowel dirty for next use.






So that's all the tips I have to offer. If you can keep these in mind then pressing pigments won't be such a disaster.
Take your time. Do it on a day you don't have much to do. It is time consuming, but once you get things rolling, it gets easier and faster. Clean up after every mixing and keep things organize. Get all your materials in one place and cleaned up before you start. Find a work area where you have enough space for your stuff while you work.

So here's how my work area looked like after pressing ten pigments. Not bad eh??? It's just a bit cluttered with all the papertowel and tissue I used xP. I have more to go. But I'll save those for another day. I laid a papertowel where I'm mixing my pigments. Pre-cut the ribbon that you think you'll need to create the hatch. Spilled some pigment on your work area? All it takes is a tissue with alcohol and dab on it... don't try wiping it because it will smear. The alcohol will quickly pick up the pigment if you just dab on it.
SHAKE YOUR EZ PREZ PRESSING MEDIUM BEFORE DROPPING IT IN THE MIXTURE. I realized I forgot this important step after pressing nine pigments -___-*. We'll see how my eyeshadows will hold up later on. I was too caught up on things and was too eager in getting it done I guess?
Stay tuned for an upcoming post of transforming your Coastal Scents palette into something magnetic!!
**omgoodness... this is probably my longest post ever -____-*
Share:

Friday, September 05, 2008

L'Oreal HIP Color Rich Cream Crayon (Review)

I originally saw this when I was picking up the HIP Metallic Duo eyeshadows. I decided to pick these up as well since they were BOGO at the time. They had stricken my fancy when I saw them on display next to the eyeshadows because they reminded me of the MAC shadesticks. I'm all about saving if I could, so I thought maybe this can be a good dupe. But the question is, are they as good as the good ol' MAC shadesticks??

What they say about it: Bloom into the world of color with HIP high intensity pigments Color Rich Cream Crayon Eyeshadow and Liner. Ultra-versatile color comes in six rich, super fresh shades.

Technology in bloom: a cream shadow and liner wrapped in one.

HIP high intensity pigments Color Rich Cream Crayon is a fresh take on makeup. Apply to lid as all-over base shadow. Or use it as a liner to dial up definition.

And, all like HIP high intensity pigments products, this long-wearing crayon packs more pigment in every shade. So, when it comes to breath taking looks you're sure to be a natural. (source)

Price: $9.99 (price varies depending on stores)

Available at: Major drugstores (Walgreens, Rite Aid, CVS, etc)


L'Oreal HIP Color Rich Cream Crayon
Quality: 5 out 5
Price: 5 out of 5
Packaging: 5 out 5

Overall: 5 out of 5





SWATCHES:


What I like about it: As you can tell from the swatches, these crayons are highly pigmented and with a metallic finish. It works well as a base, eyeshadow, or even as a liner.
I swatched the L'Oreal HIP crayon and my MAC Shadestick (in Beige-ing) right next to each other. I tried rubbing both of the swatches and the L'Oreal HIP crayon definitely did not budge nor faded while as the shadestick smeared and disappeared after a few rubs. You will definitely need a good eye makeup remover to get the HIP crayon out!

When it comes to applying it as a base on my eyelids, the L'Oreal HIP crayon is softer and easier on the eyes. It wasn't a constant battle trying to use the crayon when applying it into my eyelids as it glides on easily as oppose to the MAC shadestick where I sometime find myself tugging on my lids (big no-no!) just to get the product to apply evenly. The base is actually really good also in terms of making your eyeshadow vibrant. I paired up the green crayon with my MAC Fresh Mix MES, and the colors just popped. I've also used the pink crayon in my previous Laura Mercier tutorial and it definitely gave me a better color pay-off as oppose to not using it as a base. The eyeshadow were also still blendable when using the HIP crayon.

Another good thing about this product is it comes with a sharpener that you can pull out at the bottom. It's actually rather convenient and a big plus if you want to use the crayon as an eyeliner. A pointier end will definitely give you a better line. I've used the crayon as an eyeliner, and it only showed minimal fading during a really hot weather (think high 90's) here in sunny California.



You'll definitely get more bang out of you buck if you purchase these when they go on sale. I'm not too sure if I'll purchase these at $10 each, but I'm all over it if they're in BOGO or even BOGHO (50% off second item). Why not get it cheaper if you can?

What I don't like about it: I guess the retail price. It's almost as much as a MAC shadestick for a drugstore brand. But then again, the quality of the HIP crayon is much better in my opinion so I can see some justification on the pricing there. I also don't like how they only have six shades available meaning the color selection is very limited. Sometimes they're also hard to find or unavailable in certain drugstores. You only have your basic colors, but it will be a really nice addition to have a creme color available.

Will I buy this again: Absolutely! Especially if more colors become available. I think the HIP crayon is a good alternative to MAC shadesticks, and like I mentioned earlier, it's probably even better. For a drugstore brand, L'Oreal is definitely stepping up it's game in giving a better quality at a relatively lower price.
Share:

Thursday, September 04, 2008

Product Review: PureLuxe Soothing Calamine Facial Bar

Alongside my Ly-Na Pearl Cream, PureLuxe Calamine bar was a major part of my skin regimen during my acne days.

What they say about it: This soap is excellent for troubled skin. Full of beneficial ingredients all designed to aid and soothe. Made with premium oils such Shea Butter and Emu Oil. Calamine powder (zinc oxide & iron oxide) for its soothing effect, chamomile and hibiscus for soothing anti-inflammatory properties and mild astringency, rose geranium essential oil to help balance sebum and to keep skin supple. Tea tree essential oil for its anti-bacterial and anti-acneic effects, and chamomile essential oil to help soothe irritated skin.

Ingredients: olea europaea (olive) fruit oil, water, cocos nucifera (coconut) oil, calamine powder, ricinus communis (castor) oil, bytospermum parkii (shea) butter, sodium hydroxide, emu oil, matricaria recutita (chamomile), hibiscus sabdariffa (hisiscus flower), anthemis nobilis oil (chamomile essential oil), melaleuca alternifolia oil (tea tree essential oil), pelargonium roseum asperum oil (rose geranium essential oil), sodium lactate, silk fiber

Price: $1 (sample) or $6 (full-sized bar) +S&H

Available at: pureluxecosmetics.com

(Photo Credit: PureluxeCosmetics.com; Source)


PureLuxe Soothing Calamine Facial Bar
Quality: 5 out 5
Price: 5 out of 5
Packaging: 3.5 out 5

Overall:
4.5 out of 5


What I like about it: PureLuxe's Calamine Facial Bar was very gentle on my skin. It never left my skin feeling dry unlike some other facial cleansers do. It only left my skin clean and refreshed with each use.

When I heard about this wonder soap, I was a bit skeptical how it claims that it helps troubled skin (i.e. acne). But much to my curiousity, I went ahead and bought a sample of it for a dollar. Since then, I was very impressed. This soap did wonders on my skin within a couple of weeks. Prior to this soap, my face was probably not in the best shape it could've been. I had major acne problems (don't believe me? click here).

The soap really cleanses my face (squeeky clean) without stripping away oil that can leave my face dry. I use this soap to wash my face day and night. It also has kept my breakouts to a minimum or none, and has gotten rid of the pimples on my cheeks that I thought would not go away (ever). The soap also has helped control oil production, in my opinion, that I started noticing my face isn't as oily as it was before.

I also love how it smells. It has that light, fresh smell.

This soap and my Ly-na cream were definitely responsible in getting my skin better.

What I don't like about it: I don't like how it is in soap form. It can be unhygenic in a sense since it is exposed to all kinds of dirt (so I make sure I keep mine in a soap container). However, if your soap container doesn't have holes to drain the water out, the water will really shrink the size of your bar. I wouldn't recommend using this to take off your makeup, especially eye makeup because it will not completely get it off your face (although it does pretty ok with removing eyeshadow). What I usually do is use a makeup remover or wipes to remove any eyemakeup. When I do use mineral makeup, it does a pretty good job in cleaning my face, but I can't say the same thing for liquid foundation (since I don't use liquid foundation). Other than that, I can't think of anything else!


Would I buy it again: YES! I owe it all to this bar of soap. Everytime switch cleansers, I always find myself coming back to this especially when I realized that the new cleanser is breaking me out. Although I'm not breaking out anymore (maybe one or two during the time of the month), I still use this as my preventive acne measure in case my face decides wreck havoc again. I just love, love, love how this makes me face feel and look.
Share:

Tuesday, September 02, 2008

Nic's Sticks Nicole by OPI in "I'm Outta Here" (Review and Swatch)

I got this nail stick in the mail to be reviewed just in time for the Pow Wow. I actually fell asleep the whole day the day of the Pow Wow, and I actually planned on painting my nails for the night. So within only two hours to get ready for the big event, I was scrambling around the house and thinking whether or not I should even bother painting my nails. Then, in comes the Nic's Stick. It was a perfect time to test this baby out to see how fast and really convenient it is.

What they say about it: Just pump, paint, and go! Long-wearing, fast drying, and convenient. Fits in pocket or purse. Check out our 24 fashion shades (Source).

Price: $6.99-$7.99 (price varies in stores)

Available at: Ulta, Ulta.com, Rite Aid, Walgreens, and other major drugstores.


Nic's Sticks by OPI - I'm Outta Here
Quality: 3.5 out 5
Price: 3.5 out of 5
Packaging: 4 out 5


Overall: 3.5 out of 5



Brush head - unused
What I like about it: I initially thought that it might get a bit messy since the brush head is pretty wide, and won't fit my short stubby nails. Although the brush head is bigger than your normal nail polish heads, it's able to dispose enough product on your nails easily. With one pump from the stick, it actually gave a good and even coat on one hand. I didn't have to clean up any mess on the side with a Q-tip like I normally do. I was surprised that brush head was able to reach the sides of my finger nails without getting any on my fingers for clean up. It was really quick and easy and it took about only 10 minutes for me to go through both of my hands with two coats and drying time. I also found it easier to hold especially when I'm doing my nondominant (left) hand. This pretty much solves my problem of painting my nails with too much nail polish that ends up looking pretty thick, clumpy, and ugly.
The cap closes securely that keeps the brush head from hardening even with the left over nail polish. You wouldn't really worry about nail polish spilling on your purse since you have to untwist the cap and then pull before you can open it.
This nail polish also doesn't leave any bubbles. It leaves a nice coat and shine even without the top coat on it. It really does leave you with pretty nails as if you've just stepped in to get your nails done in a nick of time. Nic's Sticks are very easy to use and convenient, and really good for those last minute touch ups (or even manicures).

What I don't like about it: The price first of all is almost as much as a bottle of salon-quality nail polish probably because of its packaging. For the price you are paying, you're not getting that much. I already used up a quarter of the contents inside for both hands with only two coats each. The nail polish also tends to be a bit sheer (not sheer in a sense that you don't get a good color payoff with one coat), so two coatings wasn't really enough for my nails. Three coats would've probably given me a nicer, opaque color. The nail polish wasn't as long-lasting as I thought it would be. I had other nail polishes that lasted me a few weeks without it chipping. I'm typing most of the day, so my nail polish is expected to take some beating to it. As you can see from the picture, after eight days, the tips of my finger nails have some nail polish chipping off.


They can probably improve on the packaging some more by putting a "window" on how much nail polish you have left at least on the side where the brush head is. The only "window" the packaging has was the pump of the nail polish, meaning you have to tip the polish to the opposite end of the brush head.

Would I buy it again?: I probably wouldn't. Maybe I would only buy it if it was on sale, and the colors are pretty enough for me to buy. Honestly, I would rather spend the same amount of money on a better bottle of nail polish that would last for a few weeks. The only time I would reach out for this is when I'm really crunched on time and I have to paint my nails real quick.
Share:

Monday, September 01, 2008

TKB Trading Pigments (Swatches)

I had to repost this entry because I realized tha I forgot to label my swatches. See I would've done this two days ago, but I got caught up watching an Asian (I think it's Chinese or Taiwanese) drama called Fated to Love You. Alyssa originally posted about this and I got so addicted to watching it!! I have about two more episodes left, so I think I'll save the last few for later. *sigh* I loveeeee dramatic/comedy/love stories!! I've been crying because of this show and staying up late til the buttcrack of dawn trying to go through the episodes (yea, yea, yea I know). So that's my lame excuse why I haven't updated and what I've been doing this long weekend besides sleeping :).

Anyway, here are the swatches once again for those who haven't had the chance to see them. They're really pretty colors and quite vibrant. I'm actually planning on pressing some of these today. So we'll see how it goes. I'll repost swatches after I've pressed them.

UPDATE ON COASTAL SCENTS RANTING: Coastal Scents contacted me through YouTube after watching my video, and has agreed to replace the EZ Prez binder. I got a notification that the replacement is on its way through e-mail after I've provided them with my order number, so I should probably be getting it this week. I'm glad that they were willing to replace the item, but geez, I shouldn't have to make a video about it for them to respond. They should've at least answered and have taken care of the issue when I e-mailed them about it in the beginning. Anyway, I'm just glad I'm getting a replacement since it wasn't sealed properly. So that's issue is done and squashed. I'll update ya'll again once I got my replacement bottle.








SWATCHES




Anyway, I hope everyone is having a relaxing three-day weekend!!
Share:
Blog Design Created by pipdig