I have a wonderful Beauty Budget Guest Post up for you all today!  A huge thank you to Amanda from SkincareHQ.org for this post!

Having a limited budget does not mean that you have to do without some really great beauty must haves. There are plenty of products out there that are totally affordable. Not only are they are totally affordable, but they are also a really great value! Don’t believe me? Then check out our list of great items at great prices for those who have to do their beauty on a budget!

1. Aloette Clarifying Facial Wash

This facial wash is a steal. Not only is it cheap, but is also works great at unclogging your pores, treating blackheads, and even whiteheads. It is surprisingly gentle, and is specifically great for oily skin types.

2. Bamboo Brush Set By ELF

Crafted out of recycled material, and 100% cruelty-free, this product is a real steal for ‘go green’ lovers who also happen to have a limited budget. The set comes with a complexion brush, concealer brush, blending eye brush, and mini Kabuki brush- and all for just $8.

3. Glycolix Elite Facial Cream Ultra Lite

This is a light glycerin moisturizer that is perfect for either oily skin, acne prone skin, or even combination skin. This facial cream has been formulated using ingredients that have both moisturizing and anti-bacterial properties, so it leaves you skin totally healthy and germ free. On average,  you can find this Glycolix facial cream for around $15.

4. Eucerin Daily Protection SPF 30 Moisturizing Face Lotion

This dermatologist recommended face lotion is great for dry and/or sensitive skin. It’s lightweight, helps to replenish the skin’s natural oils, and protects your skin from the sun’s damaging rays. It is also extremely lightweight, fragrance free, non-comedogenic, and clinically proven to be safe for even the most sensitive skins.

5.Boots No 7 Stay Perfect Foundation, SPF 15

This foundation is great for oily skin, and has a finish that lasts around eight hours without becoming flawed. It offers a medium shine-free finish.

6. Loreal Oil Free Moisturizer

This moisturizer is a perfect choice for anyone who suffers from oily or acne prone skin. Since there are no added oils, your skin will not end up being greasy and shiny. Loreal is a really great brand in general, even though all of their products are not as cheap as their oil free moisturizer.

7. Clean and Clear Deep Action Cream Cleanser

This is another one that’s oil free, so it’s great for any type of acne prone skin, or those with oily skin. This one is available at just about every drugstore or grocery store, so it’s also very easy to find.

8. Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash

This wash is great for all skin types, and comes dermatologist recommended. It’s made plenty of “best” facial lists, and appeared in multiple magazines and websites.

9.  Neutrogena Deep Clean Facial Cleanser

Good for normal to oily skin, it is made from salicylic acid. This product is also oil free, alcohol free, and dermatologist tested. The average price is around $5 to $6.

10. Bobbi Brown Blotting Paper

If you have oily skin, then blotting papers are a must have for your purse and general beauty regiment. These powder-free sheets come in a pack of around 100 for only $10 or less.

11. 180 Colors Super Queenie Eyeshadow Palette

This eyeshadow palette comes with a whopping 180 vibrant, bold colors and  it’s only $30 for the whole palette…that’s around 16 cents a color!

12. Voluminous Mascara by Loreal

Cheap and effective, that is exactly what this mascara is. No matter how many layers you put on, you will never be left with clumpy looking eyelashes, and you can find this product nearly anywhere makeup is sold.

13. Baked Blush by Milani

This powder blush is simple to use, and makes your skin look absolutely luminous. It looks great on anyone, and comes in nine different shades. It also costs less than ten dollars, and pretty much lasts forever.

14. Easyliner For Eyes by Jordana

This is a bright eyeliner that comes in ten different colors. Each stick costs under $2 each, so you could gather up every last one of the ten colors for less than $20.

On top of all of these beauty products, there are also a few brands who are on the cheaper side of things, but that work just as well as their expensive counterparts. Here are a few of the brands:

• ELF (Eyes Lips Face)
• Purity/100% Pure
• Icing Cosmetics

Do you know of other awesome budget items that actually work? Have you used one of the ones we mentioned and want to tell us how it worked out for you? Let us know in the comments below! We’d love to hear what you have to say!

Author Bio: Amanda is a skincare fanatic and author of SkincareHQ.org which features a guide on Non-Comedogenic Foundation. Aside from skincare, Amanda loves to travel and one day dreams of living in Europe. If you have any questions or comments for Amanda, feel free to connect with her @Skincare_HQ on Twitter!

The post Beauty On A Budget: Great Items At Great Prices appeared first on Cosmetic Sanctuary.

Good afternoon!  I have something a little different for you today as far as reviews go!

I was sent a book named The Skin Regime – Boot Camp for Beautiful Skin written by Dana Ramos as well as a sample of a glycolic peel to test out.  The book is an interesting read and helps arm you to help better your skin either on your own, or if you want to see a dermatologist to help.  Dana Ramos compared it (in the book) to whether you want to work out on your own or hire a personal trainer.

This isn’t a textbook on all the horrible skin issues, this is a book Dana Ramos wrote to help people with similar problems to her own.  I personally have ok skin.  Nothing to be impressed with, but certainly nothing I could really complain about.  Would I like better skin?  Of course!   I’m currently 30, only 3 months shy of my 31st birthday and I have some red patches, dry spots and I get breakouts here and there – usually along my jaw line or around my nose.  I still “ohh and aww” when a commercial boasts a new product that is miraculous, but I stopped spending a ton of money on those types of products about 7 years ago because my wallet was hurting and frankly, I never really saw results.  If the product got rid of the dry patches and redness, it increased my outbreaks or vice versa.   We really are our own worst critics, and while my boyfriend tells me I don’t need to change anything, I see all the issues and imperfections.

Along with the Skin Care Regime book I received a Glycolic Peel sample and this is my first time doing an at home peel.  Was I scared?  Yes I was.  I even told my coworker that if I called in sick on Monday (I attempted this on a Friday) that it was because my skin looked like it was melting off.  I was only half kidding.

Here is what I’m working with – a 50% Glycolic Peel from Platinum Skin Care

Here is the before picture of my skin:

Yup here I am in all my glory.  Not a stitch of makeup and getting ready to apply my very first glycolic peel.  I do need to get my eyebrows done,  so aside from that, you can see some redness and bumps (a couple bumps are scars from poison oak I use to get as a child) but overall, it really isn’t much that I can’t hide with some good face powder.  I realize the picture isn’t flattering, but I’m not here to BS you about products.  The only way to really show products, especially skin care ones, is to actually show what you are working with.  That means I get to post pictures of myself people generally wouldn’t see.

3 Days AFTER using a Glycolic Peel:

I really had no reason to be scared.  I did panic right after using it though.  Within a few minutes of applying the glycolic peel it started to burn.  It wasn’t pleasant.  I rinsed it off as instructed and the burning feeling remained.  It lasted a good 15 minutes after I rinsed the glycolic peel off and I panicked that I did something wrong.  A good friend I contacted reassured me that I should be ok, to just give it some time.  Finally the burn subsided to a mild stinging, and then it went away altogether.  I woke up the next day and my skin was normal.  It wasn’t melting off!  YAY!  I waited another 2 days to do an after picture just in case.  I didn’t want to prematurely post that everything was amazing and then have my skin go haywire.

Visually, my skin shows a very mild improvement.  Very mild.  BUT I can tell a difference when I feel my skin.  I usually need to exfoliate often due to dry patches, but I have only exfoliated once since using the Glycolic Peel.  I do plan on doing this regularly in hopes my skin improves more visually.

The Skin Regime – Boot Camp For Beautiful Skin does caution that if you have problems such as cystic acne, open lesions, rosacea, eczema or problems similar, you really should consult a dermatologist before starting the Skin Care Regime.  If you are looking to improve your skin and don’t know where to start, or you have exhausted your efforts on over the counter creams, cleansers and such – The Skin Regime Boot Camp For Beautiful Skin is a good book to purchase or download for your Kindle.  The book is direct and honest as well as humorous, so it isn’t boring to read.

You can purchase The Skin Regime – Boot Camp for Beautiful Skin on Amazon HERE .  It is available in both paperback ($9.95) as well as Kindle Edition ($9.45)

I was kindly sent a second sample of Platinum Skin Care’s 30% Glycolic Peel to do a giveaway with as well as the book The Skin Regime – Boot Camp for Beautiful Skin!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

***Products in this post were sent for review.  All opinions are my own***

The post The Skin Regime – Boot Camp for Beautiful Skin Review & Giveaway appeared first on Cosmetic Sanctuary.

Check out some new products launching from Protective Nourishment to keep your skin in perfect shape!

Check out Protective Nourishment treatments for your skin needs at ProtectiveNourishment.com

The post Protective Nourishment Launches the Super C Serum Concentrate, Pumpkin Wine Elixir & Replenishing EGF Serum appeared first on Cosmetic Sanctuary.

A couple of weeks ago I was approached to review a new skincare treatment called NeriumAD Age Defying Treatment.  I turned 30 this year and although I don’t show huge aging signs, I do have some.  My major skin issues (that I hate) are large pores, mild acne and dry patchiness.  Not necessarily “aging issues” but issues nonetheless.

I was given a 5 day sample supply with an instruction booklet and some background on the company in general.  NeriumAD was developed as a breakthrough product by Nerium International.  Nerium International was founded as a result of advanced biotechnology research on the Nerium oleander plant. An accidental discovery was made when scientists realized that the unique properties of the oleander plant led to significant age-defying results with application to the skin. What came as a result was NeriumAD,a first-of-its-kind product with the patent-pending extraction process of the NAE-8 extract!

Clinical Trials of NeriumAD showed that skin ailments were drastically improved in the following areas:

Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Hyperpigmentation

Enlarged Pores (This is why I decided to try it!)

Uneven Skin Texture

Aging or Sun Damaged Skin

I have been testing out NeriumAD for 5 days and I will show you my Before and After photos that have not been altered in any way.  My photos are straight from the camera to this post and they were only cropped/watermarked as usual with my photos (I don’t visually alter photos on my blog at all).

The first thing you will notice when using NeriumAD is the scent.  The first packet I opened smelled like walking into a real flower shop.  There was a mixture of floral scents as well as an herbally smell.  Not horrible, but not exactly pleasant.  NeriumAD is tan in color and you apply it to your face while your face is still moist. NeriumAD is a night cream so it will replace anything you currently use at night. You just wash your face off with cleanser & then apply one of the packets of NeriumAD each night.  While your skin soaks in some of it, you leave it on like a sort of mask overnight (you can feel it, but it isn’t heavy).  In the morning I simply rinsed it off and my skin felt smoother and I was able to use a lighter moisturizer than I normally do.

Now for the photos (I realize my eyebrows need to be done again, I haven’t had time recently.  Also, the red “splotch” on my nose is from the pads of my glasses).  It takes a lot for me to post photos of my skin with no makeup, especially this close up.  I knew getting into beauty blogging that eventually this day would come though.

Before:

After:

 The biggest difference I noticed was that my pores weren’t as enlarged as they had been.  As I stated before, I backed down to a lighter moisturizer than what I usually use and I didn’t need to exfoliate as often as I do (usually in a 5 day period I exfoliate 2-3 times, but while using NeriumAD I only exfoliated once).  I liked the feel of the product, the scent takes a little getting use to though, after 10 minutes or so I forgot about it (my boyfriend however did not lol).  I would like to revisit the product when I’m showing more signs of aging a little later down the line, but for now, the reduction in pore size made me quite happy.

Here are some results pictures that were provided to me:

For more Before and After photos – you can go HERE

You can find more info on NeriumAD on their website HERE

NeriumAD retails for $80.00 per 30 mL bottle.

NeriumAD does offer a 30 day money back guarantee.  If you aren’t happy with your results, just return it for a refund!  If you love it, even better!

As with with any skincare product, results will vary depending on skin types and ailments.

Here is the ingredient list for those interested:

Nerium AD Night Cream Ingredients:

NAE-8™ Proprietary Blend (Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Liquid, Nerium Oleander Leaf), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Liquid, Proprietary Protein (Collagen, Elastin, Glycosaminoglycans), Glycerin, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil, Stearic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, C14-22 Alcohols, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside, Cetearyl Glucoside and Cetearyl Alcohol, Vegetable Oil, Dicaprylyl Ether, Sodium Borate, Chondrus Crispus (Carrageenan) Powder, Quinoa Protein, Sodium Isostearoyl Lactylate, Dimethicone, Sodium PCA, Proprietary Blend (Caprylyl Glycol, Glycerin, Glyceryl Caprylate, Phenylpropanol), Parfum, Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate, Tocopherol (Vitamin E)

***The Product in this post was sent to me for review.  All opinions are honest as well as my own***

The post Nerium AD Age Defying Treatment Review appeared first on Cosmetic Sanctuary.

I have had my Birchbox subscription now for well over a year.  While some months have been “YAY” I’m finding that for the past 6 months they’ve been more “Meh”.  I decided to venture out and try a new monthly subscription box to see if there was anything better.  I didn’t want to pay over the $10 per month if possible, and I was going to hold onto Birchbox until I found a suitable replacement.

Now, don’t get me wrong, I do still enjoy Birchbox, but when I signed up in (I think?) March of 2011, I agreed to pay $10 per month for a box of Deluxe Samples and 1 full sized item in each box.  Over time, those deluxe samples dwindled down to regular samples that get thrown into my bag everytime I shop in places like Sephora, and the guaranteed full sized item seemed to become a chance to get or something silly (to me) like a multigrain bar or a funky hair tie.  A Multigrain Bar?  I can keep my $10 bucks and buy a handful of them.  Also, I should say I don’t really trust food in the mail.  I don’t know why, I just don’t.

So I searched and found MyGlam.  Like Birchbox, it is $10 per month, and the items in previous months I researched looked decent.  On top of that, the samples looked to be Deluxe sized as well.  MyGlam also sends goodies in a cosmetic bag which didn’t really “sell” me since I don’t use them much.  If I’m traveling I need a case to fit my cosmetics, not a bag.  And I rarely keep cosmetics in my purse.  BUT if you love makeup bags – you might like this.

Ok onto the boxes!  These are both the August boxes I received.

Birchbox:

My August Birchbox was just ok.  Honestly if the Schick Hydro Silk Razor wasn’t in there, I would have been disappointed.  There was also a deluxe sample of Whish Shave Cream in Pomegranate, Viva La Juicy La Fleur perfume sample , Yu-Be Moisturizing skin cream and Stila Stay All Day Foundation samples.

Now the breakdown and my thoughts.

Schick Hydro Silk Razor – The star of the box.  I was due for a new razor so this came just in time.  I get a pretty close shave with this baby and so far no nicks or razor burn.  Not too bad!

Whish Shave Cream in Pomegranate – This didn’t smell like pomegranate to me, it actually smelled like a two buck chuck fruity wine.  Not a bad sample size either!  I’ve gotten 2 uses out of it so far and can probably get another 2 before it’s empty.  On the Birchbox site, it’s only $20 for a full size and if I order this month I get free shipping too.  I would consider it.

Viva La Juicy La Fleur Perfume Sample – I like the scent of this more than the original Viva La Juicy perfume.  Would I buy it in full size?  Probably not BUT I do love perfume samples and have a ton of them in a container here.  Never enough perfume samples.

Yu-Be Moisturizing Skin Cream – This worked really well on my cuticles.  It looks and feels like a creamier vaseline, but once you rub it in, it doesn’t leave a greasy residue behind.  It can be used on dry skin, cuticles, chapped lips, Eczema or Sunburns.  I won’t repurchase, but this is nice to keep in my purse for cuticle rescue.

Stila Stay All Day Foundation Sample – This came with a Stay all Day 10-in-1 HD Beauty Balm sample, Foundation in Light and Concealer in Light.  I got 1 use out of it and it was just ok.  It didn’t break me out (plus) but the 1 use didn’t sell me on purchasing this in a full size.

MyGlam:

My August MyGlam bag was pretty good.  I received a full size Circus Nail Polish, Salty Cosmetics Mineral eyeshadow, Eclos eye cream and face serum, Demeter roll on Perfume and a MyGlam Glam Gloss (and of course the pink mesh like cosmetic bag under the products in the photo).

Circus Nail Polish in Ringmaster (Full Size) – Very cute.  This is a hot pink neon polish in a chunky square full sized bottle.  Application was pretty good on it and I felt like I could direct traffic at night with my neon talons.

Demeter Roll On Perfume Oil in Dragon Fruit – I LOVE perfume.  Love it.  I stuck this bad boy in my purse too.  The bottle is .29 fl oz total and is actually pretty good!  Very usable for me and the scent is Dragon Fruit.  It has a nice Fruity scent with a little bit of a spicy kick to it.

Salty Cosmetics Mineral Eyeshadow in Glama-Zoid! – I have a ton of mineral eye makeup but this is a really pretty opal color with a pale pink duochrome look to it.  I haven’t worn this one yet, but I thought it was nice to get.  I’ve never heard of Salty Cosmetics, so its a new brand to check out!

Eclos Anti Aging Regenerative Cream – Basically a face cream, but for a bulky round container, I was expecting more to be in it.  The container wasn’t even half full, only 1/4 – 1/3 of the way full.  I tested it and it felt nice, soaked into my skin with a non greasy feel.  Wasn’t keen on the scent.  If a licorice plant and a mint plant had a baby – this would be it.  That’s what it smelled like to me.  I can deal with it, but it would stop me from purchasing a full size.

Eclos Anti Aging Cellular Activator Face Serum –  I like that they paired 2 items from the same skin care line in the bag.  When I get various skin care samples from different companies in one bag I can’t use them right away.  I test the separately in case I break out, I can narrow down the culprit.  The Face Serum came in a cute little pump tube. The smell reminds me of sunscreen.  I asked my boyfriend what he thought it smelled like and he said sunscreen as well, but he also said “Either way, it doesn’t smell good”.

MyGlam Glam Gloss in 02 – That’s right, no name, just 02.  This is a REALLY pretty lipgloss.  It’s right in between being sheer and being opaque.  Glam Gloss 02 is a Shimmery bright pink and is kind of sticky.  It’s tolerable, but still sticky.  It has a fruity scent and a flexible doe foot applicator.  The tube itself is really cute.

The Cosmetic Bag – You know those none slip grip drawer liners?  The bag feels like a sturdier version of those liners.  Kinda funky, but I really like it.  Mine came is orange with a pink zipper.  Not too bad.

Overall – Birchbox had a decent box, but MyGlam’s was just better.  I plan on keeping both subscriptions going for at least 2-3 months longer and decide from there if I need to cut either Birchbox or MyGlam.  If MyGlam keeps it up, Birchbox will be shown the door.  The MyGlam Bag this month was probably better than 80% of the Birchboxes I’ve received and at this point, I just have to see if it was a fluke or if MyGlam continues to impress me.  My main issue with letting Birchbox go is that they have a program on their site that for every item in your monthly box that you give feedback for, you get 10 BB points and for every 100 points, thats a $10.00 voucher.  I’m up to almost $60.00 in vouchers.  I would tell you if MyGlam was similar, but their Website has been down for a couple of hours now (which worries me a bit, I won’t lie)

If I HAD to pick one RIGHT NOW based on these boxes – MyGlam would be the keeper, hands down.

Both Subscription Boxes retail for $10.00 per month.  I know that MyGlam has a waiting list (I think I only waited 3 weeks). I honestly don’t know if Birchbox does or not.  Thank you to Peace, Love and Glitter – I have learned that Birchbox has a waiting list as well!

***Both boxes in this post were paid for by me.  All opinions are my own***

The post Battle of the August Boxes – Birchbox vs MyGlam appeared first on Cosmetic Sanctuary.

We are on the final installment of my Bloom July/August review!  This past box came with a nice assortment of goodies and I have 2 more to show you!  I was using these items in conjunction with the Dr. Dennis Gross Peel, but I extended using these a little longer.

I will be showing you Lily B Multi Action Rescue Ultra Eye Cream as well as Lily B Hydrating Serum!

We ready?  Lets do it!

Lily B Multi Action Rescue Ultra Eye Cream:

If you want to keep your eyes bright and young-looking, you won’t go wrong with this unique multi-action rescue eye cream! A powerful combination of botanicals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients designed specifically for the delicate eye area, helps to reduce puffiness and under eye circles, while providing all-day antioxidant protection and hydration. This eye cream is just what your over-worked eyes need!

I’ve been using this eye cream for 3 weeks now and I do see some results.  It tightens and refreshes the skin around my eyes giving off a younger and more awake appearance.  I applied it around my eyes and it absorbed quickly without the icky oily or slimey feeling some creams give.  Not too bad!  A little goes a long way, so for me one pump bottle is at least 3-4 months of use!

Price of Lily B Multi Action Rescue Ultra Eye Cream: $42.50

Lily B Red Tea Defense Booster Hydrating Serum:

Boasting a light, super-hydrating formula, Lily. B Red Tea Defense Booster Hydrating Serum works deep within your skin to protect against environmental damage and rescue dehydrated, depleted, fatigued skin. Pure red tea, known as a super antioxidant because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, delivers its antioxidant benefits deep into the skin, helping to protect, even repair skin from UV damage, reducing the signs of skin irritation, and helping to improve the skin’s tone, texture, and clarity. Hyaluronic acid, a natural substance in the skin, helps attract and retain moisture, resulting in younger-looking, healthy, soft skin. Just what you need to keep your skin hydrated and balanced, this serum is perfect for use once you cross age 20, when hyaluronic acid levels begin to drop.

Since a sample was provided I used this for close to 2 weeks before I ran out of serum.  It felt nice and played well with my skin type.  I didn’t experience any breakouts at all while using.  Hydration wise, I still needed skin cream on top of it .  I am 30 but my skin isn’t showing huge aging signs yet, so I don’t think I can accurately say whether it helped my skin as far as aging signs or not!

Price of Lily B Red Tea Defense Booster Hydrating Serum: $45.50

Some skin photos!

Before:

After:

***Products in this post were provided for review.  All opinions are my own***

The post Lily B Eye Cream and Hydrating Serum Review appeared first on Cosmetic Sanctuary.

I have another Bloom Ambassador box review for you today!  This one I was very hesitant to use, because it is a Face Peel, and I think we have all heard or seen bad things as a result to facial peels.  I didn’t want to head into work looking like my skin was peeling off my skull.  Luckily Dr. Dennis Gross Extra Strength Alpha Beta Daily Face Peel was nothing like that!   This peel provides higher concentrations of Alpha Beta® Acids, plus new anti-aging boosters, including mandelic acid and willow bark extract without added irritation or recovery time.

I was given a 5 day supply to test out.  I took a picture on Day 1 right before I applied my first application.  Each application has a 2 step application process.  Each are in convenient wipe form!  After a nightly cleanse, dry your face and take out the Step 1 cloth and in a circular motion, wipe the cloth all around your face until the cloth becomes fairly dry.  Toss the cloth and wait 2 minutes.  My first application for the Step 1 cloth made my face sting just a little.  It was mild, but noticeable.

Once Step 1 was completed and the 2 minutes were up, I applied Step 2!  Step 2 was applied in the same fashion, in a circular motion all around my face and neck area until the cloth started to feel dried out.  Step 2 didn’t sting at all, instead it felt like a million tiny bubbles bursting all over my face.  It actually made me feel really clean!

On Day 5, I snapped a photo as well for the Before/After effect.  Visually, I don’t see a huge difference.  I did notice my pores were a little smaller, but the biggest difference was in the feel of my skin.  It was so incredibly smooth and my normally dry skin wasn’t an issue.  No itching or flakies at all (thank goodness!) and I didn’t experience any bad effects from the Alpha Beta Daily Face Peel!  No peeling, no redness and no breakouts.  Breakouts are NOT uncommon though!  Sometimes the use of a new product can cause your face to “Purge” and bring any impurities to the surface.  If that happens, just continue use for a bit longer and it should clear up.  If it doesn’t – the product just may not be for you.

Ready for some Before/After shots?  Be nice!  No makeup on in these (except I did apply mascara… I do have some issues with makeupless photos lol)

Before:

After:

Difference isn’t huge, but like I said, the feel was so worth it!  My skin hasn’t felt this good in awhile!  Glad I decided to give this a shot, even though I was scared at first!

Just for fun, this pic was taken after Day 5 as well.  This is me and my son yesterday… I actually went out all day with only a little face powder on and some mascara.  Didn’t need concealer or my face primer and I was ok with it!

Price for Dr. Dennis Gross Extra Strength Alpha Beta Daily Face Peel: $85.00 for 30 applications

Would I repurchase?: Sadly, I will probably pass.  Pricewise, it is out of my range.  If the price was lower, I would.

***The Product in this post was provided for review in my July/August Bloom Ambassador Box.  All opinions are my own***

The post Dr. Dennis Gross Extra Strength Alpha Beta Daily Face Peel Review! appeared first on Cosmetic Sanctuary.

I’m not only a nail polish junkie, but a cosmetic junkie too.  My “cosmetic area” is stocked full of various products, from drugstore finds to high end items.  All of which I love dearly.

A brand new to me has provided a couple of items for review and I cannot wait to show them off to you!

First up is Mally’s Evercolor Poreless Face Defender!

Mally’s Evercolor Poreless Face Defender is the perfect finishing touch for your makeup. This remarkable technology yields an utterly sheer, featherweight product that diffuses the look of pores, minimizes fine lines, and helps protect your makeup so it lasts from morning to night. Face Defender gives you that flawless matte finish without the dry, ashy look of powder. The result is silky smooth skin and longer-lasting makeup. It comes with a unique buffed-edge Japanese sponge

(sorry I forgot to take a photo before using the Poreless Face Defender!)

I was very excited about using this product!  I’m all for any product that makes the pores on my face look better.  My biggest skin issue is that I have large pores.  This did the trick!  Ever see those powder finishing powders?  Yeah me too.  And I’ve dropped a bit of money on them with iffy results.  Mally’s Evercolor Poreless Face Defender worked so much better!  I used the triangle shaped chunky sponge that was provided with the product and dabbed it into the Poreless Face Defender to get it onto the sponge.  Then I dabbed it onto my skin (over my powder).  Do NOT wipe it on as it will cause your foundation/powder to streak and will not give good results!  Once on, your skin still feels light and powdery but smoother and silkier.  I kept touching my face even though I shouldn’t have.

My biggest issue with this product?  As you can see in the photo the product started to “break” apart.  It’s still usable, but it was odd to see it crack and separate a bit.  Not a deal breaker by any means.

My makeup after applying Mally Beauty Evercolor Poreless Face Defender:

I’m happy with the results!

Mally Beauty Evercolor Poreless Face Defender is colorless, comes in a cute pink  compact that is square shaped.  The triangle sponge that comes with it does not fit in the compact.

Retail Price: $40.00 (and well worth every penny!)

Now we will move onto the Mally Beauty Volumizing Mascara!  Mascara’s are my “beauty drug” of choice.  If I had to, I would toss out all my makeup but not the mascara!

This Volumizing Mascara has a unique formula that helps create the look of gorgeous, full, luxurious lashes. The combination of natural waxes and carefully chosen powders gives lashes an instant boost. The plush brush works with the powders in the formula to help thicken lashes without clumping, giving you gorgeous volume that lasts and lasts.

This has become my Holy Grail Mascara.  I have been using it non stop for a month!  I already have decent lashes.  Kind of long, a little thick but they have no oomph.  I don’t experience any extreme clumping, feathering, or flaking with Mally’s Volumizing Mascara.  I apply by starting at the base of my lashes, then pull the brush upwards while wiggling the wand a bit to get the product in my lashes.  I generally use 2 coats for a night out, 1 coat if I’m just going to work.  This mascara is only available in black.  I’m good with that, I only really like black mascara, but if you prefer brown or another color, you’re out of luck on this one!

Ready to see the results?

This is with 2 coats.  I didn’t apply any to the bottom lashes (I never do).  Not bad huh?

Retail Price:  $20.00

This is my first experience with Mally Beauty and so far so good!  They have a large variety of products on their website and I’ve seen nothing but great reviews on their items.  I’m extremely pleased with the 2 items I received and I plan on replacing both items when I run out (they really are that good!)

You can find both the Mally  Beauty Evercolor Poreless Face Defender as well as Volumizing Mascara at the Mally Beauty Website

Make sure you also check them out on Facebook!

***Products in this post were provided for review.  All opinions are my own***

The post Mally Beauty Cosmetics Evercolor Poreless Face Defender and Volumizing Mascara Review appeared first on Cosmetic Sanctuary.

I am very excited to announce the launch of Milani’s newest limited edition collection: Color Play Felt-Tip Pens! They are available in 6 shades.  Each shade can be used to expertly line eyes or create works of art on the body or face! The fine felt-tip point allows for easy application. It is also water-resistant & long-lasting.

I absolutely LOVE felt tip eyeliners over all others, so I will be hunting these shades down!

Ok I NEED the Black, Blue and Green one!!

 Milani Limited Edition Color Play Felt-Tip Pens retail for $6.99

These will be available this month at select Walgreens and Fred Meyer stores. They are also available now at www.milanicosmetics.com.

Do you plan on checking them out?

The post Milani Limited Edition Color Play Felt-Tip Pens Launch! appeared first on Cosmetic Sanctuary.

This is a review that is a long time in the making.  I have been testing 3 Premier Dead Sea products for the last couple of months.  First I tested them separately for a few weeks at a time, and then I tested 2 of them in conjunction with each other.

Premier’s philosophy is to bring together in harmony and synergy nature’s own wisdom coupled with cutting-edge scientific discovery to create effective, luxury skincare products. Our Premier products are so effective, they deliver what they promise and typically more than you ever imagined. Premier is dedicated to excellence, integrity, vitality and global responsibility.

The first product I’m sharing with you was my favorite of the 3!  Para-Pharmaceutical (Elite) Cleansing Facial Gel!  

The Para-Pharmaceutical Cleansing Facial Gel is a cleanser and exfoliator all in one.  It contains micro-plant seeds with aromatic oils (which to me smelled AMAZING) to clean and exfoliate the face skin and balance your skin.  I saw good results using this product within a couple days.  I continued to use it for a few weeks and had no new breakouts, patchy dry spots or skin irritation while using it.  The price is a little high for my tastes, BUT a little goes a long way and 2 months later (I used this 3 times a week), I still have quite a bit left in the tube and probably have at least another 2 months left.  I would consider repurchasing this product because it did work well for me as both an exfoliator and as a cleanser.

Para-Pharmaceutical (Elite) Cleansing Facial Gel retails for $49.99

The second product I tested out is BIOX Intensive Anti-Age Serum!

I didn’t have any issues with the BIOX Intensive Anti-Age Serum, but I also didn’t really notice any difference in my skin.  I’m 30 years old, and don’t have a whole lot of wrinkles or anything (yet), so I’m not sure if that’s part of why.  On the bright side though, I also didn’t see my skin go downhill while using this product.  It didn’t cause any breakouts or dryness.  I used this every morning and every night before bed for 3 weeks to test it.  Later on in the testing phase I used the Para-Pharmaceutical Cleansing Facial Gel in conjunction with BIOX Serum,  and together they worked well.  But again, I didn’t see any noticeable different with this particular product.  The price is definitely out of my range though, so even if it worked wonders for my skin, unfortunately I would not be capable of repurchasing.

BIOX Intensive Anti-Age Serum retails for $499.99

The third and final product is BIOX Intensive Age Defying Cream!

Unfortunately, Premier Dead Sea BIOX Intensive Age Defying Cream did not work for my skin type.  I got a mild break out along my jaw and in my T-zone while using this particular product.  This is part of why I test each item separately, so I can narrow down and determine what causes a possible breakout or skin irritation.  Even after I noticed a breakout I continued to use the product for a couple of weeks (I used it every morning after my shower) just to make sure my skin wasn’t going through a purging period (this can happen and not all breakouts mean the product doesn’t work for you).  BIOX cream did seem to sink into my skin rapidly and didn’t leave behind a greasy feel.  Sadly though, it just wasn’t right for my skin.  Because of this, I would not repurchase this product.

BIOX Intensive Age Defying Cream retails for $449.00

One thing I want to remind people when reading skin care or hair care reviews is that everyone IS different when it comes to these kinds of products.  What works for my skin type may not work for the next, and vice versa.  For reference with this review, I have sensitive skin with an oily T-zone and dry patches along my jaw, cheeks and forehead.  I am prone to small break outs but generally nothing that requires heavy concealer or foundation to cover up.

As I said above, I would consider repurchasing the Para-Pharmaceutical Cleansing Facial Gel because it worked very well and has replaced my usual cleanser.  My skin did not go through a purging phase in using this and my skin has been doing well with it (even during ‘that’ time when my skin usually goes nuts)

Check out Premier Dead Sea online HERE they carry an extensive range of skin care products as well as some nail care items as well.

Premier Dead Sea is also on Facebook, so take a look there as well!  If you head over to the “Welcome” Tab you will receive a coupon for 25% off!

***The Products in this post were provided for review.  I was not paid for this review and all opinions are my own***

The post Premier Dead Sea Review appeared first on Cosmetic Sanctuary.

I know most of my posts are based on nail polish, but the original intent for this blog was for cosmetics, skin care, hair care, etc review.  A little bit of everything!  But I will admit, after working all day – coming home and doing makeup looks to photograph just isn’t in the cards!   I became a Bloom Ambassador last month and not only was the box I received wonderful but it also allows me time to review a group of products for skin, cosmetics, fragrance, etc in one shot!

I have a few products to review for this so I’m going to get this started!

The first set of goodies I received was for Pacifica.  I got 6 Pacifica products and holy cow were these amazing!  Just opening the cute golden box they were nestled in was like heaven, the scent greeted me and lingered around without being nauseating.

Lets take a closer look at the 6 products:

Pacifica Island Vanilla Perfume Roll-On:

Pacifica Island Vanilla Perfume Roll On is described as being inspired by the unique magic of Tahitian vanilla, this sensual blend sets sweet and sultry vanilla absolute, with honey-jasmine notes and a touch of fruitiness, against a deep and beautiful base of tea.  Wow, this is a lovely vanilla scent without being overpowering, too sweet or fake smelling.  I do love vanilla, but I am so sick of the fake vanilla scent.  I plan on purchasing the larger spray version of Pacifica Island Vanilla.  The roll-on is perfect to carry around in my purse (which I’ve been doing all week and was complimented on it multiple times!).  Each Roll-on retails for $12.00

Pacifica Color Quench Natural Moisture Lip Tint:

I received 2 different Color Quenches this month.  One in Blood Orange and one in Coconut Nectar.  Pacifica Color Quench Natural Moisture Lip Tints are all natural, 100% Vegan and leave a sheer hint of color.   Essential fatty acids from rich and amazing avocado and coconut oils leave lips luscious and healthy.  Blood Orange colors your lips a sheer coral with a pop of pink while Coconut Nectar is a shimmery golden raisin color.  Out of the two, Blood Orange is my favorite, but Coconut Nectar is perfect for those “no makeup, makeup looks”.   Each color Quench retails for $9.00.

Pacifica Body Butter:

Did I say this box for June was amazing?  I’m sitting here with all these aromas from the Pacifica box and I’m still thrilled!  Ok I also got 2 Pacifica Body Butters to review, one in Tuscan Blood Orange and one in Indian Coconut Nectar.  Smell incredible with nourishing and anti-oxidant rich ingredients.  Pacifica body butter helps fight signs of aging while adding deep moisture and protection.

• Tuscan Blood Orange is described as a delectable blend, juicy and spicy Blood Orange is offset with subtle Strawberry and Raspberry notes and grounded in fleshy Mandarin and Italian Sweet Orange.  An orange connoisseur’s dream.
• Pacifica’s Indian Coconut Nectar is a sensuous and delicious blend inspired by travels to faraway destinations. This warm, sultry blend of coconut and delicate creamy vanilla is pure ambrosia.

So hard to choose a favorite in these 2!  What I really love about Pacifica Body Butter is that I applied these after my shower and the scent wasn’t overpowering AT ALL.  The scent lingered around but was delicate.  If you aren’t one for perfumes much, this is perfect to apply and go.  The scent was longer lasting than most I have used and doubled as fragrance for the day as well.  Each 2.5 fl oz tube of Pacifica Body Butter retails for $7.00

Pacifica Bronzing Body Butter:

Ok so this was my only “meh” product from the Pacifica box.  Not because the product is bad, it just isn’t something I use.  I’m not one for bronzing products at all.  BUT if you are looking for a body butter and bronzer with a light scent, this product is for you.    The bronzing body butter I received was in Coconut Crushed Pearl and when I put it on, my boyfriend said “What smells like cotton candy?”  and he was right.  While I didn’t hate the scent, I don’t think it’s made for me.  Maybe I’m an “old” 30 year old, but I am not one for the “which carnival scent am I wearing today?” type.  Each 8oz tube of Pacifica Bronzing Body Butter retails for $24.00

That will conclude the Pacifica Reviews!  Now moving onto the next item!

Booty Parlor Flirty Little Secret Firming Bronzer:

Ok again, not a bronzer person.  Although this one wasn’t too bad and was easy to blend in, I don’t have a lot of use for it.  It also left a faint shimmer that makes you almost glow in the sun. Create glow-getter curve appeal with this lightly shimmering, jasmine tea scented firming body bronzer that’s infused with a sexy secret weapon: a powerful pheromone designed to make you irresistible!  The scent is dead on too – just like jasmine tea.  I did use this a few times to fulfill my duty, but sadly, I don’t think I will wear it much more.  Again, not a bad product, just not a bronzing person.

Almost done!  I promise!

Stila In the Moment Eye Shadow Palette:

This palette includes:

Instinct – light baby pink with pink & white shimmer

Desire – soft, creamy mid-tone pink

Impulse – pale lavender with lavender shimmer

Wonder – mid-tone flesh pink with shimmer

Glance – intense violet with shimmer

Spontaneous – soft beige-gold with shimmer

Improvise – deep plum with pink sparkle

Whim – soft warm reddish-brown with shimmer

Catalyst – black with pink sparkle

Captivate – mid-tone purple-brown with golden pearl

Stila is a brand I love and trust beauty wise.  Their eyeshadows are long lasting, well pigmented and easy to blend.  Stila In the Moment Eye Shadow Palette is amazing!  Within one palette you can create sexy, sultry or even neutral eye looks.  I’m also a sucker for purples, so of course I love this one.  The palette comes with 10 colors and endless possibilities.

 For my look pictured I used:  Instinct all over the lid up to the brow bone, Impulse in the inner crease, Glance in the outter crease and Catalyst wet as eyeliner!

Stila In the Moment Eye Shadow Palette retails for $39.00

Stila In the Garden Eye Shadow Palette:

This Palette Includes:

Chinois – matte creamy white

Breeze – shimmery beige

Bark – shimmery taupe

Freesia – shimmery violet blu

eRosette – metallic pink violet

Nectar – matte creamy beige

Honey – metallic bronze gold

Sage – shimmery translucent green

Moss – dark olive green with shimmer

Juniper – deep shimmery forest green

Stila In The Garden Eye Shadow Palette is another amazing 10 color shadow palette but it comes with more neutral colors than anything.  I do love it, but I think the In The Moment Palette was more for me!  I do love the color Sage within the palette though, gorgeous shimmery sage green.

Stila In the Garden Eye Shadow Palette retails for $39.00

Last one!  Thank you for hanging in there, I know this is long!

Juicy Bamboo Facial Cleansing Cloths:

Juicy Bamboo Facial Cleansing Cloths have a lot of positive attributes:

100% biodegradable

Paraben Free

Sulfate Free

Alcohol Free

Synthetic Fragrance Free

Tree Free Cloths

As much as I love makeup, I also love good makeup removers.  The problem is, with skin as finicky as mine, it is sometimes hard to find removers I like.  Juicy Bamboo Facial Cleansing Cloths removed my makeup easily and flawlessly, including my mascara (the mascara is the real test and it took it off easily!).  BUT I had a couple small breakout after using them, which made me very self conscious about doing the Stila reviews using looks… which is why there is JUST an eye pic and not a full face picture.   After the first sign of break out, I used the rest of the cloths just to see if my skin was purging and would stop, but it didn’t.  I have heard rave things about these cloths, but really – they didn’t work with my skin.

 Alright, that concludes my June Bloom Ambassador box!  Lots of exciting things right?  Of everything, the Pacifica goodies blew me away!  A lot of the products were amazing, and some just didn’t work for me (which happens!)

You really should check out Bloom.com for some amazing beauty finds and REAL reviews!

Have a wonderful weekend!

***The products in this post were provided by Bloom.com for honest reviews.***

The post June Bloom Ambassador Box Review appeared first on Cosmetic Sanctuary.

LORAC: UNZIPPED, UNCENSORED and UNBELIEVABLE!

Lips with Benefits!

Create a stir wtih LORAC’s Lips With Benefits Gloss! This unique, hydrating formula is Paraben-Free and infused with antioxidants of Acai Berry, Pomegranate Extract and Vitamins C & E to help nourish and protect your kissable pout. These luscious glosses feature a menage-a-trois of swirling striped hues for a one-of-a-kind, high-shine finish with flirty, sexy color and a sweet Creme Brulee fragrance that will have you wanting more. No strings attached, no sticky entanglements, just a satisfying, silky-smooth application every time. Don’t be bashful, Lips With Benefits comes in many complementing shades to please you so you won’t have to feel guilty about choosing more than one color to love!

Lips with Benefits comes in the following shades:

Mark – Neutral Peach

Nick - Light Pink Shimmer

Chuck – Nude

Ben - Light Peach Shimmer

Josh  - Fresh Pink

Alex - Berry

Chris - Fuscia Shimmer

Lips With Benefits retails for $18.00 and contains .19 Fl Oz per tube

Create 4 head-turning looks with 4 ultra-rich shimmering and matte Eyeshadows with this exclusive palette!

TANtalizer Highlighter and Matte Bronzer Duo

TANtalize and mesmerize with LORAC’S  Highlighter and Matte Bronzer Duo.  Highlight, Color and Contour with this versatile, easy to use, dynamic duo that that contains a velvety-smooth luminizing powder for pro-highlighting and a matte bronzing powder for perfectly-contoured, bronze cheeks.  This unique formula is oil, fragrance, paraben and talc free  and great for all skin types.  Complete with a super-size mirror, this compact is perfect for an on-the-go Red Carpet Glow.

TANtalizer Highlighter and Matte Bronzer Duo retails for $32.00 and contains .4 Oz of product

You can find TANtalizer and Lips With Benefits at www.LoracCosmetics.com

The gorgeous eye shadow palette is an Ulta exlusive and can be found at www.Ulta.com

The post Lorac Unzipped – The Nude Collection appeared first on Cosmetic Sanctuary.

Beauty takes to the skies this Spring with Merle Norman’s Newest Color Collection!  Introducing light and airy shades that are right on trend!   Eye’s are sub-lime, cheeks look heavenly and lips get all dolled up!

 Merle Norman’s Spring 2012 Color Collection combines modern pastels with warm, textured neutrals and an unexpected pop of fuchsia to compliment right-off-the-runway fashion looks.

I am so incredibly excited to have the opportunity to show you the Merle Norman Spring 2012 Color Collection!  I was sent some select pieces from this collection to review and the colors are amazing!  I was blown away by the color selection as well as the application of each product.  Each item comes in sturdy, sleek black packaging that can take a beating (my son knocked the quad off the counter on accident twice and the shadows stayed intact and there isn’t even a ding on the compact!)

Light & Airy Eyecolor Quad comes with 4 gorgeous colors.  Airy which is a matte pale aqua, Angel Wisp is a slightly shimmery pale mauvish pink, Wink is a semi-matte pale pink and Winging It is a semi-matte sheer charcoal grey.  There are so many combinations to be done with these 4 colors.  I found each color to be smooth and easily blendable.  The colors are soft yet pigmented enough to “pop.”

Quad I received for review:

Second quad available with this collection:

Cream Puff Lasting Cream Eyeshadow is a cream shadow that can be used alone for a light wash of color, or as a base primer to use with the gorgeous Light & Airy Eyecolor Quad.  Cream Puff is a neutral shade with the slightest hint of shimmer.  When I applied Cream Puff it blended right in and was incredibly smooth.  It felt like a light powder once I blended it in.

Age Defying Eyeliner in Black Onyx is a wonderful way to finish off the eye look – a soft black retractable eye pencil that glides on smoothly without any pulling.  As with the eyeshadow quad and cream shadow, this compliments the light airy look for the eyes.

Heavenly is a gorgeous limited edition, oversized Lasting Cheekcolor.  Heavenly is a gorgeous matte pink cheekcolor with a lovely flower motif on the top.  The flower is a champagne colored overspray that goes away after the first few uses.  I’m not big on shimmer blushes, because the shimmer generally accentuates my slightly larger pores, but the matte pink works amazingly well with my skin tone.  I absolutely loved it.  Heavenly gave my cheeks a pop of color without being overbearing!

Last but not least is Merle Norman’s Creamy Lip Color in Dolled Up.  This has got to be the creamiest lip color I have ever worn and the color is long lasting.  My lips feel soft without a sticky or goopy feeling.  Dolled up is a bright fuchsia and when I say BRIGHT, I mean it!

I did a look using all colors I was sent.  For my eyes, I did a base “primer” using Cream Puff Lasting Cream Shadow.  Then I used my Light & Airy Eyecolor Quad.  I used Angel Wisp on the inner corners of my eyes blending outwards, then Wink in the crease and Winging it on the outer corners.  Airy was used to line the outer corners of my top and bottom lash line.  To finish my eyes, I used Black Onyx Age Defying eyeliner.  I have Heavenly on my cheeks for a little color and then applied Dolled Up Creamy Lip Color!  (I realize my eyebrows are a little crazy)

Closeup of eyes:

Closeup of Lips:

Full Face View using all products:

Merle Norman Spring 2012 Color Collection is set to release March 1st (for a limited time only!) and will be available at Merle Norman Salons.

You can check out Merle Norman’s other cosmetics at www.MerleNorman.com as well as visit them on Facebook here

***The items in this post were sent to me for review.  I was not paid for this review and all opinions are my own***

The post Merle Norman Spring 2012 Color Collection Review and Swatches appeared first on Cosmetic Sanctuary.

Shop MAC: Try and Buy a delicious, delovely, delectable, divine, degorgeous, de-with-it, degroovy assortment of Eye Shadow x 4 in wearable brights perfect for Spring. Treat yourself to Lipstick in heavenly hues, mouthwateringly Kissable Lipcolour and Cremeblend Blush. This Spring, shop ‘til you drop with a tongue-in-cheek collection that elevates the everyday into the extraordinary. Whether it’s detergent or diamonds, produce or Prada, everyone loves to shop, shop, shop!

Cook MAC: Ladle on an extra helping of foodie fun with an appetizing assortment temptingly tasty Tendertones, nearly black Fluidlines, Studio Careblend/Pressed powder, Opulash Mascara, two Brushes and nosh-worthy Nail Lacquers in fun, bright shades sure to satiate even the most discriminating of glamorous gourmands. COOK M·A·C has Spring 2012’s no-carb, no-calorie recipe for kooky, kitschy, kitchen kouture in savoury shades for Eyes, Lips and Nails.

Available February 9, 2012 (North America) and March 2012 (International) at MAC Cosmetics.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lipstick ($14.50 U.S.)

Runaway Red Rich red-blue

Quick Sizzle Bright pink

Naughty Saute Bright pepto pink

Innocence, Beware! Light yellow pink

Dish It Up Berry pink

Kissable Lipcolour ($19.00 U.S.)

Flaunting It Grey mauve 

So Vain Muted dirty coral 

Scan-delicious Blue fuchsia 

Woo Me Light pinky nude 

Enchantee Light blue pink

Cremeblend Blush ($20.00 U.S.)

Optimistic Orange Bright orange 

Florida Bright coral

Restores Dazzle! Rich plum

Shop & Drop Eyeshadow Quad ($38.00 U.S.)

 Hypnotizing Frosted greyed mauve
Sugar Snack Light pink 
Power Boosted Violet 
Shop & Drop Deep blue

Call Me Bubbles Eyeshadow Quad ($38.00 U.S.)

Call Me Bubbles Light tan 
Fresh Daily Orange 
Brash Frosty reddish copper 
Full of Flavour Coral

Colour Added Eyeshadow Quad ($38.00 U.S.)

Laundry Daze Light yellow 
Colour Added Bright yellow
Self-Serve Deep grey 
Pre-Packaged Muted turquoise 

Studio Careblend/Pressed ($23.00 U.S.)

Medium Soft creamy beige

Dark Deep caramel

Fluidline ($15.00 U.S.)

Midnight Snack Soft black

Wholesome Blackened brown

Added Goodness Blackened mauve

Tendertone Lip Balm SPF 12 ($15.00 U.S.)

Hush, Hush Sheer gold with yellow gold pearl

Purring Sheer tangerine with pearl 

Hot ‘n’ Saucy Soft cherry red 

Tread Gently Soft lime green with yellow pearl 

Nail Lacquer ($16.00 U.S.)

Al Fredo Bright acid green 

Salad Dressed Mid-tone dirty aqua 

Kid Orange Coral 

Brushes

211 Pointed Liner ($18.00 U.S.)

129SH Powder/Blush ($34.00 U.S.)

Opulash Mascara ($15.00 U.S.)

The post MAC Shop MAC, Cook MAC Collection (Shop Shop Shop, Cook Cook Cook) for Spring 2012 appeared first on Cosmetic Sanctuary.

Brilliant butterflies, flashy florals and gorgeously geometric graphics…A colourful collaboration between MAC and the artist known worldwide as Vera, who merged fine arts with linens, murals, textiles and silk scarves in her punchy, painted patterns. Now in shades plucked straight from her most lavish prints, MAC Vera embraces the luxe, lighter-than-air spirit that delivers the kind of startling, look-at-me statement that defines what it means to be an instant classic.

Such an amazing collection!  Here are closeups of each item available!

Plushglass – Limited Edition – $19.50 

On A Holiday - Bright pink with blue pearl

Fashion Fanatic - Creamy pale pink

Pretty Plush – Extra soft pink with white pearl

Confetti –  Bright Orange Coral with soft pearl

Butterfly Dream – Mid-tone violet with blue pearl

Nail Lacquer – $16.00

Midsummer’s Dream – Pale pink lilac

Play Day – Pale milky coral

Pearlmate Face Powder $28.00

Sunday Afternoon – Clean bright pink/bright clean fuchsia/soft pale pink with white pearl

Flower Fantasy – Pale coral with slight gold pearl/slightly blue pale pink/soft pale salmon

Crushed Metallic Pigments – $34.00

Aloha – Lattern Light, Campfire, Shifting Sands & Aloha

Strawberry Patch – Star Crystal, Rose Light, Strawberry Patch & Moon Rose

Butterfly Party – Butterfly Party, Desert Cloud, Rain Drop & Moss Garden

Pearlglide Intense Eye Liner – $15.00

Lord it Up - Bronze with pearl

Industrial – Periwinkle grey

Designer Purple – Iridescent violet

Undercurrent – Teal with pearl

Petrol Blue – Deep navy with pearl

Black Swan – Black with pearl

Black Line – Black with gold pearl

MAC’s Vera Collection will be available in North America on February 16th and Internationally in March!

The post Mac Vera Collection! appeared first on Cosmetic Sanctuary.

Super-Saturated High Gloss Lip Color – $19.00

Lovechild

Apocalypse

• Apocalypse: Deep berry
• Lovechild: Pale pink blue

24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil – $19.00

Demolition

Perversion

Woodstock

• Demolition: Matte deepest dark rown
• Perversion: Matte blackest carbon black
• Woodstock: Bright fuschia pink shimmer with silver micro glitter

24/7 Concealer Pencil – $18.00

24/7 Concealer Pencils

The post Urban Decay 2012 Spring Collection! appeared first on Cosmetic Sanctuary.

I scoured the Maybelline section and couldn’t find them – I was a little disappointed but when I turned around Revlon’s Lip Butters were sitting there  so I was quickly consoled.  Next to the Lip Butters was a display containing Essies Shine of the Times also and I will admit I forgot my original reason for going to Walgreens.

I left the cosmetic section to grab a Starbucks Frap drink on the other side of the store when I saw the display.  Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush!  They had a lot of colors available so I took my time looking over them when I spotted the “Buy One Get One 50% off” tag.  Score.

Pink Plum and Rose Petal

I decided on #15 Rose Petal and #40 Pink Plum.  Both colors are fairly sheer (which is perfect for me!) but it is buildable and the texture reminds me of a moist latex cosmetic sponge, its very odd.  Dream Bouncy Blush goes on feeling powdery and blends better than most cream blushes I have used and feels silky gliding on (I used my fingers to apply)

Rose Petal appears to be a pale pinky peach on my skin.  There is the faintest appearance of shimmer in it which I didn’t realize until I swatched it.  The color appears on my skin just as it does in the pot.

Pink Plum is a nice flush of pink.  It isn’t bright, but it certainly isn’t soft.  Again, there is the faintest amount of shimmer in this one as well.  This goes on my skin a little darker than the color in the pot – but of the two, this one is my favorite!

Rose Petal (L) and Pink Plum (R) 1 Layer

Pink Plum (L) and Rose Petal (R) 3 Layers

Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blushes are available in the following colors:

05 Fresh Pink
10 Pink Frosting
15 Rose Petal
20 Peach Satin
30 Candy Coral
40 Pink Plum
45 Orchid Hush
50 Plum Wine
60 Coffee Cake
70 Hot Tamale

Next time I swing by Walgreens I will probably be picking up Pink Frosting and Fresh Pink as well!  I love the natural flush of color you get with these blushes!

You receive 5.6g (or.19oz) of product with these little compacts for $7.99 at Walgreens they are also available at CVS and Target.

The post Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush! appeared first on Cosmetic Sanctuary.

I have tried various pore minimizing products, but I generally run into problems with them.  They either make my T-zone an even bigger oil slick or do absolutely nothing to improve my pore appearance.  Benefit’s The POREfessional actually worked and was non greasy AND minimized the appearance of my pores!  I received The POREfessional as a deluxe sample in one of my last Birchbox subscriptions (I think it was December’s box).

Unfortunately, with regular use… it also broke me out.  Not horrible, but more so than usual (I generally get very small pimples around my jawline and one of two on my cheeks).  I discontinued use and my skin cleared up (most likely its because of the silica it contains, which can clog pores).  On the bright side though, I can use The POREfessional on special occasions once in awhile and I don’t seem to break out with minimal use.

Benefit’s The POREfessional is available at various cosmetic stores (such as Sephora) and retails at $29.00 for a .75 oz tube. (The “deluxe sample” I received was a .25 fl oz tube)

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