All This BeautyBlender Hype!

The current "beauty fad" is an obsession with the BeautyBlender makeup sponge. YouTube and review sites have been going crazy over this thing! But has anyone stopped to check the price?!
The BeautyBlender runs for about $20 at Sephora! It's a small, egg-shaped sponge that is used for applying makeup. It can be used with the BlenderCleanser, also available at Sephora. 

BeautyBlender from Sephora. Photo from Sephora.com

Personally, I can't understand paying that much for a sponge! So I hit up YouTube to find some reviews or dupes. GossMakeupArtist on YouTube is a good go-to for the truth on product hype (plus his accent is great). He said that many companies have taken a very similar, if not exact same, sponge and taken off the $4 tag, charging $20+! This makes it seem like you can get a great dupe for way less money, which is wonderful news for me!

Monster Bundle blenders. Photo from Amazon.com

I have to admit that I'm curious about this brightly colored, egg sponges so I scoured Amazon for a comparable product and found the Monster Bundle blenders that come four for $10! (Free shipping with Amazon Prime! Single sponges are available, but you pay almost $5 for one.) When I found these, I went to the trusty YouTube and looked up some reviews and comparisons. They were all great reviews that recommended this product, especially if you have a budget! I ordered these yesterday so hopefully I'll be able to do a review soon! If you've used either the original BeautyBlender or a different version of it, let me know! Tell me what you thought of it!
I haven't tried the original BeautyBlender, so I won't be able to compare the products, but hopefully I can tell you whether or not it's worth the low price!

Other Info:
BeautyBlender on Sephora: http://www.sephora.com/beautyblender-P228913?skuId=1151869
Monster Bundle Blenders on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Bundle-Monster-Flawless-Blender-Foundation/dp/B0092SVTGA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1360688322&sr=8-1&keywords=monster+bundle+sponges
GossMakeupArtist Video on Sponges: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_1PoAk7mJs


 

What's in My Beauty Bag?!

This is always a popular video among the YouTube "gurus" so I thought I'd try it on here! 
I always have my small black Liz Claiborne bag either in my purse or my school bag that holds my beauty essentials. The bag is small enough that it fits in practically every purse I have.

My "Beauty Bag" (left) and it's contents!

Here's what I keep inside my Beauty Bag:
-EOS Lip Balm (in Lemon Drop)
-Ulta Lip Plumper lip gloss (in Carnation)
-Ulta Sugar Fresh Tinted Lip Treatment (in Berry)
-Merle Norman Age Defying Lip Color (in Rose Sorbet)
-L.A. Colors Concealer  (in Nude)
-Clinique Lash Doubling Mascara (in 01 Black)
-Sally Hanson Double Duty-Strengthening Base & Top Coat 
-A small hotel hand lotion
-A small hand sanitizer
-Band-aids
-Pony tail & Bobby pins
-Small nail file
-Ibuprofen 

Out of my Beauty Bag:
-Covergirl Clean Pressed Powder (220 Creamy Natural in the Sensitive Skin formula)
-A pack of Kleenex
 As you can see, my bag is pretty small so there are a couple of things that I keep "out of my bag" but generally carry them with me.

There is one lipstick and two glosses in my bag because I like to have options throughout the day. The Merle Norman lipstick is a little lighter than the Ulta Tinted Lip Treatment so I can go for a couple of different looks. 
The Ulta lip gloss is my favorite shade (but I don't think they make it anymore :( if you find it let me know!) and it goes well with everything!
My EOS lip balm is a must, especially in the winter! I always reach for this when my lips are chapped (and even when they're not)!
I keep an extra tube of mascara that is close to being empty just in case I need to touch it up during the day. Sometimes I rub my eyes or allergies set in and my makeup runs, you never know what's going to happen during the day so it's just best to have it.
Lotion and hand sanitizer are always great to have. You don't want your skin to dry out, and you never know when the public restroom will be out of soap or you get food on you in the car! I just use a small bottle of lotion from a hotel or something because it fits perfectly in my bag. I leave my larger bottle of the good stuff at home! The hand sanitizer was only around $0.50 at Walgreens!
My hair can be extremely difficult at times, and how I leave the house is not usually how it stays so bobby pins and pony tails are handy!
When I paint my fingernails, I'm so busy that I'm bound to chip them at some point. I try to keep either the color I'm wearing or my top coat in my bag to keep them looking like new!
The nail file is also a handy tool! I got this small one in a set of nail strips and it is very convenient.
You never know when you'll get a head or stomach ache so I always like to have some Ibuprofen with me as well.

My Covergirl pressed powder is in the same shade as my foundation so it's nice to have for touch ups. I don't have to bring my foundation bottle and brush everywhere I go!
And Kleenex are always great because you never know when you or a friend might need one, especially in the winter!

Thanks for reading! Hope you found some tips! Comment and let me know what you keep in your Beauty Bag!

Normally I Don't Like to Pay More Than $2 for Lip Balm But....

I never understood why people pay SO much for lip balm! When EOS (Evolution of Smooth) Lip Balms came out, I thought I'd try them....until I saw the price. They're only $3 or $4, but I just didn't want to spend that on a lip balm.

Photo from http://www.blog.addicted2lipbalm.com.au/eos-lip-balms-now-available-in-australia-yay

As the hype kept going, I watched and read reviews of the product online and finally decided to break down and try it. I wanted the lemon flavored one, but NOBODY had it! I checked all the Walmarts, Targets, and Walgreens in my area without any luck! Thankfully, my mom is amazing and knew I was looking for it. She found it and bought it for me and I've been in love with it ever since!
First of all, the scent is amazing! The lemon is nice and citrus-y without being too powerful. It lingers for a little while after application and it just makes me happy to smell it.
Secondly, the lemon flavored one has SPF 15, which is always a plus. I believe lemon is the only scent that has SPF. 
Third, the packaging is adorable. It's so cute and still easy to carry, and I'm not surprised the egg shape has become so popular!

Photo from http://shoppingclothgirlz.multiply.com/products/listing/10049/EOS-LEMON

Fourth, and most importantly, it is an amazing moisturizer for your lips! It does not go on thick like tar or make you lips sticky like some balms. It goes on nice and smooth in a light layer, but you can still feel it working. It also lasts for a good while. With ChapStick and Carmex, I always find myself reapplying it several times a day especially in the winter. I only apply the EOS balm a few times a day, and one or two of those may be just so I can smell it again, or because it's so cute!

While the price is more than things like ChapStick and Carmex, it is definitely worth it! There is so much product (0.25 oz/7g) and it will last you a while! It will do wonders for your lips and protect you from the sun. It's both a solution for chapped lips and a preventative to help them stay silky smooth! If possible, I recommend working an EOS lip balm into your beauty budget!

Other Info:
I didn't take pictures of my personal EOS lip balm because I use it SO MUCH, it's gotten kinda dirty in my bag!
EOS Lip Balm website: http://evolutionofsmooth.com/
Page for this product: http://evolutionofsmooth.com/products/lipbalm-sphere/lemon-drop-spf.html

Bonne Bell Eyeshadow Box in "Prom Queen" Review and Swatches

Picture courtesy of http://www.ebay.com/itm/Bonne-Bell-Eye-Shadow-Box-640-Prom-Queen-/120966016691

Some Background: 
Bonne Bell is a brand that has been around for quite some time now. Their products can be found in most drugstores and grocery stores. I will be reviewing and swatching their Eyeshadow Box in "640 Prom Queen." This product comes in many other color combinations that can be found on Bonne Bell Cosmetics' website.

The Product:
This eyeshadow quad comes with four complementing colors and two small eyeshadow applicators. The packaging is nice and convenient because it is smaller and made of plastic, so you don't have to worry about breaking it. A mirror is not included but that does allow the product to be more compact. The box is about 2.75" by 1.75."

Inside the quad. I've removed my applicators that were in the bottom section

How it's Supposed to Work:
The website says that this product is good for "contouring and defining." It also claims that the shadows can be applied wet as an eye liner. The lighter shades can be used as a highlight while the darker shades should be applied to your lids. 

Swatches without flash

Swatches with flash

How it Really Works:
I don't know what the website means when it says these colors can be used as eye liners because I don't think that is possible. The colors are nice, but not extremely pigmented and therefore would not fair well as eye liners. I've found that this product is great to create light, everyday looks that are easy and quick. I can always count on this if I'm running late because you don't have to reach for multiple products and search to find complementing colors--they're all in one place. Like I said, the colors don't go on very dark which makes them perfect for a light, natural look that can be worn to work or school. Maybe some of the darker color quads are more pigmented such as the "Urban Blues" or "Cafe Classics." I haven't tried the other shades so let me know what you think if you have!
The colors are pretty silky as opposed to chalky. There is little to no fallout when applying the colors and they are pretty true to color. I'm pretty sure I've dropped this thing a million times and thrown it in my makeup box or bag, and the shadows have never broken or cracked. 
The shadows will stay on for a considerable amount of time. Don't expect them to stay all day though, so I suggest taking this product with you. 

The Bottom Line--Price:
These run for around $4 and you can find them for less depending on where you shop. You're paying about a dollar a shadow, so it's not a bad deal. This product does not work the way you think it will or how the website claims it will, but I think that's why I like it. The shadows are light and it's a handy palette to have around. I would recommend this but I don't think it's necessary. If you're looking for an easy everyday look or something to keep in your purse, this is a great product. If you're looking for "staple shadows" to add to your collection, I don't think this is what you want.

Other Info:
This doesn't have to do with the quality of the shadows, so I didn't include it above, but the included applicators are not very good. They are tiny and impossible to use, which is typical of brushes that are included with palettes. I recommend using your own eyeshadow brushes with this product.
Bonne Bell Website: http://www.colorandflavorshop.com/
Page for this product: http://www.colorandflavorshop.com/product.php?productid=511219&cat=65&page=1

Covergirl Clean Liquid Makeup Review and Swatches

My bottle of Covergirl Clean Liquid Makeup. 220 Creamy Natural.

Some Background:
Covergirl is a brand found in most drugstores. Their Clean Liquid Makeup comes in three types: Normal, Sensitive, and Oil Control. Within in these types there are many shades for all skin types which can be found online and in stores.

The Product:
Covergirl Clean Liquid Makeup is a liquid foundation that boasts a subtle look, but full coverage. My product is in the Sensitive Skin formula and color "220 Creamy Natural." I found that the other formulas had a strange, chemically smell, but the Sensitive formula is odorless.

How It's Supposed to Work:
This foundation should go on smoothly and blend into your perfect shade. The Covergirl website says that the product is also light on your face and "goes on easily." The Sensitive Skin formula is fragrance- and oil-free, geared towards those with dry or sensitive skin. If you do not have any problems with dry, oily, or breakout-prone skin, the Normal Skin formula is for you. If you have oily skin, reach for the Oil Control formula. If you think those smell weird like I did, try the Sensitive formula.

Covergirl foundaion swatched and not blended

How it Really Works:
I found this foundation does provide a full-coverage look, but I usually still need some kind of concealer with it. It matches my lighter skin tone fairly well. It does sit heavy on the face for a good amount of time after application. Throughout the day, it does become less noticeable, whether you get used to it or it settles into skin, I'm not sure. This product does last me all day with little to no touch ups necessary. The best way I've found to apply this foundation is to use a small foundation/concealer brush to get the product out of the bottle and onto your face. Use this brush to dot it liberally over your face. I then use a makeup sponge to blend out the product. I tried to use a foundation brush to blend it out, but it didn't work well-the product didn't really blend out and left streaks across my face. The formula is fairly thick, so I think you just need a firmer hand than a foundation brush can provide in order to blend it out. The Sensitive Skin formula does not break me out or dry out my skin. I tend to have drier skin than oily skin so this does a nice job of moisturizing during the day. 

Covergirl foundation swatched and blended

The Bottom Line--Price:
I got my foundation from Bed, Bath, and Beyond (yes-they sell makeup! And they normally have a great 20% off coupon available!) for around $7. I've found that if I spend less for my foundation, I sacrifice staying power and my foundation won't last all day. I think the price is pretty reasonable for what you get. The foundation bottle is fairly large (30 mL/1 fl. oz. liq.), so you won't run through the bottle quickly. I've had mine for over two months and I still have plenty of product, probably one-fourth to half the bottle, left. I don't think you need to pay more than this for a foundation. There are many other great products in this price range from quality brands like Covergirl. There are so many foundations now that run for $15+, and if you can spend that then go for it. If you can't then I don't think you're missing out on anything. You can find a foundation with great coverage that will last you all day for less! I would definitely recommend this product. 

Other Info:
The bottle is glass, so be careful when traveling or moving it around your bathroom and hard floors.
On the Covergirl website, you can use their "Color Match" quiz and find your shade in all of their products, which is a handy tool!
The Covergirl Website: http://www.covergirl.com/
The Webpage for this product:  http://www.covergirl.com/cleanliquidmakeup-sensitive

Wet'n'Wild Mega Liner Liquid Eyeliner Review and Swatches

Some Background:
In this post, I'll be reviewing and swatching Wet'n'Wild's Mega Liner Liquid Eyeliner. I believe this product is available in most drugstores and grocery stores. I bought mine from either Walmart or Walgreens, but I'm not sure. My liner is in the color "861 Black." This product also comes in "860 Black Sparkle," "862A Indigo Blue," "863 Turquoise," "864 Plum," and "868 Dark Brown."

The Product:
This is a liquid eyeliner. The product is 0.12 fl. oz./3.5 mL and about 3.75" tall. While the packaging is interesting, it's a little bulky. The long silver cap is completely unnecessary and makes this product difficult to store. I don't think traveling with it will be a problem, but finding a place to put it at home is harder because of its shape.
In the cap, there is a small liquid eyeliner brush.

How it's Supposed to Work:
The Wet'n'Wild website description for this product says it is easy to control and dries quickly. It should stay in place for a long period of time. The website also says you can use this product to lightly line your eyes or create a more dramatic effect.

Swatches of Wet'n'Wild Mega Liner. (From R to L) Smudged, Regularly applied, Regularly applied.

How it Really Works:
I like this liner, but I'm not in love with it. It goes on very dark, so use it only if you want a very dark line because it is difficult to smudge out. I don't know if the "subtle look" the website talks about is easily achievable, but the darker, more dramatic look certainly is.
The product doesn't dry that quickly. It doesn't take forever, but it comes out very runny and you have to keep your eyes closed for a little while to avoid smudging it in your eyeshadow. Once it dries, I've found it does last a considerable amount of time. It will stay on for most of the day, maybe requiring a minor touch up. 
The main thing I dislike about this product is how runny it is. The formula feels very thin and watery, however there is still a dark pigmentation. I recommend going over it will a smudge brush or an eyeshadow in the same color to set the liner.

The Bottom Line--Price:
This product runs for about $3 at drugstores, and you may be able to find it on sale for even less. When comparing the quality of the product to the cost, I think you get a lot for your money. Despite a couple of issues like a runny formula and slow dry time, the product stays in place and has a nice deep pigment. Also, a little goes a long way so the bottle will last you for quite some time.
Overall, I would recommend this product to someone on a tight budget. If you can only spend $3 on a liquid eyeliner, this is the one to get. However, if you are able to spend a little more, maybe try a different option.

Other Info:
The Wet'n'Wild website: http://wnwbeauty.com/
Page for Mega Liner: http://wnwbeauty.com/product.php?pid=87&cid=15&subid=26

e.l.f. Tone Correcting Powder Review

Some Background:
As you will soon learn, I LOVE e.l.f. products! If you've never heard of e.l.f., it stands for Eyes Lips Face and is an amazing, affordable brand! You can go to their website: eyeslipsface.com or find many of their products at Target. I've found that the Targets in my area only sell their more basic products such as foundations, brushes, and eyeshadows. You won't find all of their collection in stores. If you want to buy a lot of products I suggest going online and placing an order. They typically offer free shipping or run a great promotional like 30% off or buy one get one free. Otherwise, shipping is always $6.95, no matter the size of your order. I ordered about 20-something products for only $30!

The Product:
The product I'm reviewing in this post is e.l.f.'s Tone Correcting Powder in the shade "cool." They also have this product in "warm" and "shimmer," but I picked this up at Target and it was the only shade available.

The packaging is really nice and sleek. It is not bulky so it can travel well and can be stored easily. The mirror is pretty good sized and also eliminates the need for a second hand mirror when traveling. It's very easy to throw this in your purse and be good for the rest of the day. The outer package is about 3.5" by 2.75."

How it's Supposed to Work:
Inside are four color blocks; yellow, blue, green, and pink. To apply, you swirl your powder brush over all four colors and then put the product on areas of discoloration or redness. The powder evens your skin tone and conceals larger problem areas than typical concealers. 

How it Really Works:
I have found that this product works really well! I have seen videos on it and heard great things so I thought I'd pick it up because I was having some redness on my face. This product provides you with a "clean slate" of sorts and is great to use for touch ups throughout the day. The powder is really light and does not give you a "cakey" feeling. I have fair skin and the shade works perfectly for me and did a wonderful job at covering up redness. It also works great over concealers to provide just a little extra layer of coverage.
When you use this, you should definitely apply a blush or bronzer as well because it can make your skin all one tone. It also tends to make your skin lighter, obviously the point, but you risk looking washed out if you use this product alone.
If used lightly enough, it can also serve as a setting powder if one is unavailable to you.

The Bottom Line--Price: 
This product is $3 both online and in stores! I got mine from Target, so I did not have to pay shipping. If this is the only thing you are purchasing and you have a store nearby, I recommend buying it there instead of paying over twice the price of the product for shipping.
I definitely recommend this product to anyone looking for a tone correcting powder or a little extra coverage you're not getting from foundation or concealers. It really works and of course, its a steal at only $3!

Other Info:
I tried to swatch the different colors, but they are not very pigmented. If you have used this product as well, let me know what you think!
Where to find online: http://www.eyeslipsface.com/makeup/face/powder