The Sephora VIB Spring 2017 sale starts today, April 18, for VIB Rouge members. So what better way for me to make some product recommendations than by sharing some of the empty beauty products that I've used up over the years. These are some of the things that I've tried, tested, and love. These are some of my holy grail beauty products that I've used up to the last drop and have even repurchased the second time.
Sephora has their big sale twice year, and today kicks-off their 2017 Spring VIB sale. Check-out the sale dates below for your current Sephora status (VIB rouge, VIB, or Beauty Insider). Make sure to also check your e-mail or mail for your invitation in case you might want to shop in-stores.
VIB Rouge: April 18 to April 24 (take 15% off) VIB: April 19 to April 24 (take 15% off) Beauty Insider:(take 10% off)
The Sephora VIB sale is a great way to shop and stock up on some of your staple beauty items or to replace any of your old ones. It's also a good time to try-out the more expensive skincare products that's been sitting in your shopping cart for awhile.
Below are some of the products that I've mentioned and the time stamp for each category from the video. Share on the comments below what you're planning to buy during the sale!
Sharing some of my favorite beauty products in my first favorites video for 2017. Here's a quick round-up and and mini review of some of the beauty items that were sent to me by PR. You might have seen me unbox some of these in my unboxing snaps (username: yummiebitez) or Instastories. Find out what I think about these products after I've been trying them out by watching the video!
Here are some lip swatches on most recent Bite Beauty Amuse Bouche Lipsticks addition that were part of their Sweet & Savory collection released earlier this summer. I didn't swatch these lipsticks when I received the PR package back in May since I thought they were more appropriate for fall.
When I had open up the box with the new lipsticks, I was a little concerned on how the colors would look on me as they're something I normally wouldn't pick out for myself. However, I was pleasantly surprised how much I loved some of the colors in this set.
What it Claims:Swipe on bold, creamy lip color with Bite Beauty’s Amuse Bouche. Created and crafted by hand, Bite’s small batch, low-heat process preserves a balanced blend of lip-quenching nutrients, vitamins, and omega oils that are essential for achieving healthy-looking lips. Made with 12 edible oils and triple milled pigments, this lipstick provides saturated lip color with weightless coverage and a citrus flavor made from fresh pressed fruit.
Formulated WITHOUT: Parabens, Sulfates, and Phthalates (from the Sephora website)
Formula
The formula of these lipsticks are very creamy and comfortable to wear. Every color that I swatched were extremely pigmented with one swipe. It also applied very smoothly while providing moisture on my lips and left a satin finish. The lipsticks has a pleasant yet citrusy scent and taste to it that's not too overpowering.
Overall Wear
The lipsticks have amazing color payoff. However, they easily transfer on my mug and when I did a kiss test on the back of my hand. Even though the lipsticks easily rubbed off after I had my lunch, the darker colors left a stain on my lips. I also I want to point out that the color does settle in the crease of my lips, so something to be aware of when you're wearing this as you might need of a touch-up. Even though the color doesn't last as long, I didn't experience any feathering on the edges of my lips even without using a lip liner prior to applying the lipstick.
One of my least favorite things to do (before) when it comes to my beauty routine was probably doing my brows. I've always had a problem filling them in and could never get them to look "on fleek". I've always envied nicely groomed thick brows and wish that mine would at least look half way decent.
Then, my friend Heart invited me to be her guest to attend the Benefit Cosmetics reveal in Las Vegas earlier this year. Back in May, Benefit Cosmetics released their new brow collection that changed my brow game.
If you're wondering how I've been doing my brows lately, I've created a video showing you my brow routine step-by-step. Benefit Cosmetics' brow products are currently my latest brow arsenal to achieve a full and bold brow look. For reference, I'm currently using Shade 4 for Benefit's brow products.
As promised from my last beauty post, a product review! If you haven't seen my latest video yet, I did a first impressions and swatch video on these NYX Cosmetics Lingerie Liquid Lipsticks. You can watch my reactions as I apply these liquid lipstick one by one for the first time. This is a more in depth review after I've worn and tried it out for a few days. I'm also providing photos of me wearing these liquid lipsticks on this post (so you can see how they photograph as well).
Before I begin, I also just want to mention that I almost forgot how much time it takes to draft a product review (from taking photos, writing this post, etc.), especially if it involves swatches. I quickly realized this as soon as I started working in this post. It's been awhile since I've done a beauty product review, but after working this one out, I think I figured out a method. But, it made me appreciate other beauty bloggers who does this on the daily. I mean, just swatching 12 different lip colors was a feat itself.
NYX Cosmetics Lingerie Liquid Lipsticks
(Available in 12 colors)
Price: $7
Available at: NYXcosmetics.com and Ulta.com What it claims:Slip into something seductive with Lip Lingerie, our new weightless liquid lipstick with a plush matte finish. Available in a range of color-kissed nudes—from cinnamon pink and chocolate brown, to warm mahogany red and classic nude beige—each sultry shade will coat the curves of your lips with irresistibly creamy color (from the NYX Cosmetics website). Photos, swatches, and review after the break...
shu uemura Lightbulb Fluid Foundation and Sponge Set Review (744 Moderate Beige)
Price: $55
Available at: ShuUemura.com (use code LIGHTBITTEN 15% off + free shipping on orders on any shu uemura purchase)
What it claims: "GLOW UNDER ANY LIGHT Perfect Coverage – 12h Moisture and mineral pigments.
The innovative lightbulb fluid foundation and sponge.
Stemming from shu uemura's expertise in oleo technology, multi-glow oil complex and buildable oil complex signal a new way forward for natural glow yet with high coverage.
Includes a revolutionary sponge, "the lightbulb", designed and shaped for tapping and creating a glowing finish.
Side A (the wide side) is a glow enhancer. Use a tapping motion to spread the foundation around your t-zone, cheeks and neck.
Side B (the pointed side) is a glow controller. Lay the sponge and adjust the glow to control the radiance."(- shu uemura website)
Product photos, swatches, and review after the break...
So for the longest time, I've had these palettes stashed in my drawer. I took advantage of a previous Buy One Get One Free at my local Rite Aid by getting whatever palettes my hands can grab.
I have to admit that I was a little bit weary of trying these eyeshadows out. I have tried Wet N' Wild products before and I found them to be either too sheer or too chalky for my liking. So these palettes were definitely a sweet surprise when I found out that they were much better in quality than I had expected.
Click the link below for the review, product images, and swatches.
Eyeliner is essential in my makeup bag. I used to be a gel liner user up until I discovered the convenience of liquid eyeliner (as I have also mentioned in my previous review). Prior to using NYX's Super Skinny eye Marker, I used something similar which is the e.l.f Waterproof Eyeliner Pen.
Prior to my beauty expeditions, I have stayed away from liquid eyeliners. They were never my favorite because my hand lacks steadiness to apply it which makes my eye makeup looking like a mess. But after a few practices with gel liners, I was able to transition to using liquid eyeliners like a pro.
As I first started my makeup journey, one of the brands that I fell in love with was NYX Cosmetics because of their price point and quality. Back then, searching for NYX cosmetic products was like a treasure hunt. They weren't easily available before, but I'm really glad they are now. More websites and stores, including Urban Outfitters, carry NYX Cosmetics. I used to only find them at some store in the outlets or during IMATS or other trade shows I would attend. But, I do remember back in the days, few years ago, when it was such a big deal when CherryCulture would have round lipsticks for $1! I pretty much hoarded all the colors. Good times.
Happy Friday y'all! I've kinda fallen off the wagon for a minute with all the hustle and bustle of life. But good thing I've drafted up some reviews in between, so I'll have some product reviews coming at'cha! I hope ya'll missed me :D.
So last Christmas, I received a super generous gift from a friend of mine. I guess I have been a really good friend since I received a few makeup items that had been on my wishlist. And one of them is the Urban Decay The Black Palette.
Yesterday, Vanessa (NessasaryMakeup) invited me to go with her to MAC's Wonder Woman release party. I haven't been to a release party in awhile. The last one was probably... I don't even remember when was the last time I've been to a MAC store. With the kajillion collection they seem to come out with every year, it was just difficult for me to keep up.
Off I went to the party still since it gave me a chance to catch up with Vanessa. It was just like the good old swatching days.
Going into the release party, I haven't really checked out any swatches that was available online. I've seen the packaging and it really didn't appeal to me too much. Although I like Wonder Woman as a character, the packaging for this collection reminded me of kid's makeup. So, I passed up on this collection completely and left the store empty-handed. Well, I walked out with swatches on my arms.
I almost didn't want to upload this tutorial because it took so many tries before I could finish editing the video since Windows Live Movie Maker refused to cooperate But now it's done, so here's my purple smokey eye look.
When I'm going to go out at night, my night look is either a smokey or a purple eye look. But this time, I just combined both. I love purple on my eyes just because it's so flattering. It's my second favorite color for that reason and because it matches with pink.
Watch the video:
For more images and detail on this finished look, click below.
During my most recent haul post/video to CVS, I randomly picked up this Rimmel London nail polish. I've been loving neutral colors lately and this bottle has definitely struck my interest.
Rimmel London Lasting Nail Polish in Steel Grey
Product Blurb:
Professional polished perfection for flawless up to ten-day colour and shine. Enriched with micro-sized minerals that fill in imperfections on the nail surface, Lasting Finish Pro Nail Enamel creates a smooth and super glossy finish for up to 10 days of maximum colour impact and shine. Advanced micro formula technology with active time-released system enhances shine over time. It captures and reflects light for colour that shines with dimension. UV fade protection keeps colour true. The formula is ultra flexible and long wearing with superior shock absorption and chip resistance. The Mistake-Free Pro brush features a wide angled brush for a fast and mistake-free professional application. With more than 800 fine textured bristles, the brush is designed to adapt to any nail shape and require less strokes to apply, while delivering a super smooth finish and truly streak-free results. (via Rimmel London US)
Price: $4.89 (get a $2 off coupon for a limited time when you like Rimmel London US on Facebook)
Available at: Major U.S. drugstore chains
Read the review and view more product images by clicking on the link below...
Gel and cream liners will always have a soft spot for my heart. It was the one that helped me learn how to line my eyes with liquid liner.
My MAC fluidline in Blacktrack have dried out like a dessert. It had its good run and it has served me well, but I was open to try out other gel or cream liners. I love Urban Decay products and I love their 24/7 Glide-on eyeliners (review), but not as much as my MUFE Aqua Eyes eyeliners (review). Anyway, I decided to give their Ink for Eyes a whirl to see how they compare to their pencil counterparts.
Urban Decay Ink for Eyes Cream Liner in Zero
Product Blurb: It's everything you want in a cream eye liner: more precision than a pencil but more forgiving than a liquid. This ultra-creamy, paraben-free formula offers more control, play time, and buildable coverage. Create razor-sharp lines or smoky bedroom eyes with the double-ended angled liner brush and smudger. The secret ingredient? Nylon 12, a unique ingredient that decreases drag, creates a flawless application experience by eliminating skips or smears and also softening and absorbing excess oil. This creamy eye liner is available in a wide variety of sexy shades that stay put all day long. Decorated with a hand-illustrated peacock, the long, lean case (complete with mirror!) is ideal for applying color with the angled liner brush. (via Sephora.com)
The Nitty Gritty...
If there is one makeup item that can make a difference in the world for me, it would be mascara. It is almost a night and day difference when I have it on. Sometimes good mascara can brighten up your eyes with so little effort. I really can say it is a magic wand for me. A little coat on and I can turn my tired looking face to a little brighter and lively look without spending 30 minutes in front of the mirror.
For someone working full-time and having an early start in the day, it’s always a gruesome battle deciding whether you should sleep in a little longer or spend those same minutes putting a face on. The former is usually the case for me.
Call me lazy but sometimes sleep is more important to me. Although lately I’ve been picking up my Lancome Definicils mascara sample that I previously got from a gift with purchase as a pick me up when I want to look more alive at work… and sometimes it’s the only thing I need.
It is almost everything that I look for in a tube of mascara. It lengthens my lashes to great lengths without having the false looking lashes. Think of being blessed with long lashes but a little bit enhanced. And since this mascara evenly coats your lashes, it does not clump or stiffen your lashes (no spider legs looking lashes here). I do hate mascaras that harden your lashes that will seem breakable if you touch it. This mascara works with what you have. Sometimes it’s a little bit unbelievable that I have that much lashes on my eyes.
The wand is very easy to work with since it’s on the thinner side which makes it great for your lower lashline. The mascara wand has your traditional bristle which I prefer since they seem to coat my lashes better (hence the less clumping). Because of the slenderness of the wand, it can easy reach the corners of your eye without making a big mess in application.
But as I mentioned earlier, it’s almost everything I look for in a mascara. Definicils lacks in the volume department. If I am going for a night out, I do like my lashes a little fuller for that drama. Sometimes I’d like to skip out on the false lashes since they’re painstakingly annoying to put when you’re in a hurry. I wouldn’t reach out for this mascara if I want volume. However, this is definitely a win in my book as part of my everyday look.
What about the price? It’s a bit steep price point for a tube of mascara. For $24.50 that will be thrown out in three months, I’m not too sure. Money is tough right now, but I guess it just depends on how much you value good looking lashes and if you’re willing to splurge. If I have money to lavishly spend… I’ll probably by this in the bulk. But for now, I’ll be using up my Definicils samples that I’ve accumulated through numerous gift of purchases.
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5
FTC: The product mentioned on this post was purchased was from a previous gift with purchase. I am not sponsored or affiliated with the brand company. I am not paid to write this review and these are my honest thoughts about the product. In order to support this blog, this post contains Sephora affiliate links of the mentioned product.
Yes, I'm back with a beauty related post. Here's a look that I've been meaning to edit since forever (previously recorded back in AUGUST)! I actually have another video pending to be edited so we'll see if I'll be able to get on that too. I actually had the chance today to edit my video only because I am sick and stuck at home. I swear I have an immune system of a 90 year old. I get so sick easily. Anyway, oddly enough editing videos are a bit therapeutic to me.
So here I am again today using the same palette. This is look number three using the Urban Decay Sustainable Shadow Box. I'm really trying to maximize the use of this palette as you can see (click here and here for the previous looks).
In case you might be wondering what my nail polish is on this post, it's O.P.I Indi-a Mood for Love (click here for previous post).
FTC: All products mentioned were purchased by me. I am not sponsored to write this post or to make this video tutorial. This post contains affiliate links.
So one day, I had my Trey Songz channel up on Pandora (by the way, Pandora is the shiiiit!) and Ciara's song Ride came up. Besides it being a catchy and bump and grinding song, I remembered really loving one of Ciara's look in the video. She just look extremely ferosh with her smokey brown eyes, not to mention her super sexy one-piece number with her fur coat (makes me want to strut my stuff in the club with that if I had the body). Oh, and if only I can move half as good as she can, my life might just improve 100 times better. I just wish I can say the same good things about her singing. But, her killer moves makes up for the lack of the latter I suppose. That's another story though.
You might have also seen me this look on my giveaway video.
Here is my interpretation of Ciara's glam look in the video. I've included step-by-step picture tutorial (doing it old school) after the jump and more pictures of the look.
For awhile now, I've been trying to figure out how I'm going to squeeze-in pursuing makeup freelancing on the side. After I got my degree, I thought I'd have all these time in the world to go after what I truly love to do. You know when you were in college, you think you'd have all these time in the world for hobbies and just to relax after you've graduated.
Well, not the case. Your priorities actually shift. You start to realize that you actually had more time when you were in school. You have to work full-time to support yourself. It's even more of a challenge when you move out from home. Yes, you do have independence and the freedom, but it comes with a price of having to do everything for yourself.
To save you guys the long, boring details, I won't be able to attend makeup school like I hoped for... at least not for awhile. Although I'm truly grateful for what I have, my dream after college was to be able to do what I truly love. So for now, I'm just going to teach myself and practice, just like everyone else, and resort to watching makeup tutorials on YouTube. And in the process, I'm going to try and document it by uploading my own videos more frequently. We all have to start somewhere.
Anyway, I was reading Stephie's blog and I've seen that she entered a contest in being hosted by Physicians Formula. It's a long shot, but I told myself I have to at least try doing contests once in awhile just because it'll be good practice for me.
Click on the banner if you want to vote for me! (end shameless plug lol)
Here's a purple look that I did for the Physicians Formula contest. For my eyes, I only used Physicians Formula products (as pictured below).
**NOTE** The Physicians Formula website is taking awhile to process my video, so I'm not quite sure when it'll be up. However, I did edit a version for YouTube :).
Since the palette didn't have names for the eyeshadows, I've labeled the color in the order that I used it for this video tutorial.
Face: MUFE Duo Mat Foundation in 203 using a synthetic face brush. For my cheeks, I used MAC True Romantic beauty powder blush.
Eyes: I applied the Urban Decay Primer Potion to prep my eyes and used Physicians Formula Gel Cream Liner in Purple as my base for my eyeshadow. I used the Physicians Formula Shimmer Strips Eye Palette for my eyeshadows. Using a shader brush, I applied PF [1] eyeshadow (lilac eyeshadow) on top of the base applying it all over my lids. Then, with a pencil brush, I took [2] eyeshadow (purple eyeshadow) on my outer V and bringing it up to my crease. To define my outer V area, I used [3] eyeshadow (indigo eyeshadow) with a pencil brush and then bringing up the color up to my crease. I blended the [4] eyeshadow (dark gold eyeshadow) just above my crease color to lightly blend the harsh lines. I highlighted my brow area with [5] eyeshadow (shimmery white eyeshadow) to brighten up my eye area. I lined my lash line and half of my lower lash line with Physicians Formula Gel Cream Liner in black. On the lower half of my lash line, I used PF [1] eyeshadow (lilac eyeshadow) with a shader brush. Curl lashes, and finish of your eye makeup with mascara. I used Physicians Formula Plump Potion.
Lips: Dior Cat Mauve lipstick.
For more photos of the finished look and the video tutorial, click after the jump!
