Luxury Beauty: 3LAB BB Perfect SPF 40/PA+++ Swatches & Review

April 4, 2012 By StephanieLouise 8331 Comment2012-04-04+12%3A08%3A00StephanieLouise

What 3LAB says: Infused with 3LAB’s signature bio-engineered growth hormone and apple stem cell technology, PERFECT BB SPF 40 is a sheer tinted moisturizer designed to firm and lift the skin, regenerate new skin cells, brighten, moisturize, and protect. conveniently in three shades to match your skin tone.

My Take: This BB creme has a wonderful texture, super creamy! It pumps out dense but also velvety smooth. Its definitely a unique texture! I love a pump & this one has great control. Why do you care about that? Because this is pricey & a little really does go a long way. Here’s a a tiny bit & you can see how dense it is when smoothed out. This amount would cover a pretty big area which I wasn’t expecting! You don’t even need a full pump!

So, I did get the wrong shade. This one is too dark for me unfortunately. I still used it though & hopefully it will be closer this summer! I’ve read some people say this is a matte finish while others say its dewy…I lean more to the dewy/glow side. Its not super dewy which is good because later on it looks oily. I love the rolling blender sponge though! It helped get into my hairline big time even though it looked pretty filthy after the first use! This has some high tech anti-aging ingredients which I am still too young to appreciate but it does make my skin appear firmer & have a better overall texture.

Here I am with absolutely no makeup & then here I am wearing 3LAB’s BB Perfect. Neither picture is retouched at all besides my blog name. I’m also not wearing blush or bronzer. Please don’t let my makeup-less face terrify you too much.

I put this on before work so I did apply concealer to some problem areas. My skin has not been happy with me this week! M undereyes have been very purple & this was not going to cut it. I really like this finish & the only thing I set with powder was my undereye concealer. I loved being able to wear this to work because it has great SPF. Unfortunately my skin is still too combo to wear this without moisturizer & it looked a bit dry later on.

Where you can get it: 3LAB’s website for $95.00 for 1.5 oz.

Is it pricey? You bet! But I really like the coverage & feel on my skin as its not heavy at all but still have decent coverage. For my skin it isn’t a year round product though so I will have to keep looking for a great BB creme that will suit my combo skin.

How about you? Would you be interested in this product? How about the price tag?
* Product provided in consideration for review. For more information see my disclosure tab.

The Balm Plump Your Pucker Tinted Gloss in Tutti my Frutti Swatches & Review

March 30, 2012 By StephanieLouise 8383 Comments2012-03-30+14%3A28%3A00StephanieLouise

The Balm has had a lot of buzz going around about it recently, from the Nude Tude Palette to their nail lacquers. I have (I believe 2) nail polishes from them if you’d like to see those swatched but today I’m showing off a gloss. Below is my review of The Balm Plump Your Pucker Tinted Gloss in Tutti my Frutti…long name but I love it!

What The Balm/Dermstore says about these glosses: Formulated with a special combination of folic acid, menthol and vitamin C, these sexy glosses increase blood flow to the lips and reduce the look of fine lines. But the lip building benefits have only just begun. An additional ingredient, Maxi-lip, works cumulatively to create lasting fullness. Be prepared for a poutier pucker after 30 days!
Dermstore says Tutti My Frutti is a vibrant shimmery pink shade while the Balm calls it a ripe melon.

My Take: I think this is one of the few glosses that claims to make your lips look plump with out that sting that actually works. It almost reminds me of adding like a padded lipgloss because it comes out a tad thick which I like a lot. It comes out rich & dense…& lasts that way too! Normally thicker glosses look kind of…patchy? Yes patchy. But not this one. I think it also filled in my lines & I swatches this on kind of a dry lip day. I love this formula but the standout is definitely the color.

I describe Tutti My Frutti as a melon with peach/pink undertones. These are described as sheer which I guess can be done when you blot but I don’t find it sheer at all. This is jam packed with golden pink shimmer that makes me feel so spring/summer ready. The scent also reminds me of summer with a slight melon/grape scent that isn’t too overpowering. The color on this is gorgeous & because its denser it lasts longer than your average gloss.

You can pick this up at a few locations for $15-$19 but I keep hearing about The Balm popping up at TJ Maxx? So I guess check there as well! I know I picked up some Essie minis there recently so its worth a shot! What do you guys think of this shade?

Physician’s Formula Casual Eye Palette Swatches, Review, & Eye Look

March 28, 2012 By StephanieLouise 8401 Comment2012-03-28+19%3A11%3A00StephanieLouise

The Physician’s Formula Casual Eye Palette is only the first of the 4 palettes I’ll be reviewing in the super cute & original packaging. Coated in jean fabric with a zipper it is possibly my favorite. I mean really, how cute is that? I wanted to start with this because feel like its perfect for the season ahead. Plus, look how it makes my baby blues pop! I chose to work with the middle 3 shades because I wanted kind of a casual look. I’ll have to take pictures of the other shades though because they are gorgeous! Interested? Keep reading!

I found all of these very blendable, like all of the PF palettes I own. The colors are definitely different but that’s what I like about it! Once again, these are not for a matte lover as they are all very shimmery. I think they are very easy to work with. Like all of these type of palettes though, the colors are RIGHT beside each other so you don’t get tons of any one color & it can be a tad messy over time. For me, its worth it though! I recommend checking out CVS sales because they tend to be the best for PF products. I’ve picked up some at around $3-$4 which is a steal! Also, this is one of the very few brushes I actually use. Its got a pointed sponge tip perfect for the shadow liner. The zipper obviously makes it a bit difficult to store but the cuteness factor overrides that for me.

Like I said, here’s the 3 middle blue shades used as recommended. I liked how simple a look it was & I got quite few compliments on it. I think blue eyeshadow/liner has a bit of a bad rep even today so its funny. I probably get the most compliments when I am wearing blue or purple! My bronzer is the new pH bronzer & my lips are rocking a Revlon Lip Butter in Strawberry Shortcake.

I think that about sums it up! You guys know I love these palettes, do you? Which is your favorite? & how about this packaging? Also, I think its time for my big, giant lip butter post soon! Any thoughts on those before it goes live?

*Product sent in consideration of review.

Gillette Venus & Olay Razor Review

March 26, 2012 By StephanieLouise 8426 CommentsGillette+Venus+%26+Olay+Razor+Review2012-03-26+00%3A24%3A00StephanieLouise

I must say, I usually try everything from Olay at least once. My mom has always reached for Lancome & Olay since I can remember so they are kind of a natural choice for me. I must say, I didn’t see this coming! Olay partnering to make a razor? But they did, & I love it! I received this in my Love Voxbox from Influenster & I’m glad I did!

What Gillette Venus & Olay say about this product:

For the first time ever, Gillette Venus, a global leader in female shaving, and Olay, a global leader in skincare, are coming together to deliver a gold standard in shaving with the new Gillette Venus & Olay razor. Venus’ best shaving technology works with Olay Moisture Bars, offering women best-of-both-worlds shaving and skin expertise. Olay Moisture Bars help lock-in moisture to your skin for less dryness, and with every smoothing stroke, Venus’ five blades shave you close.

Product Details

Venus’ five-bladed razors shave you close and adjust to women’s curves for a smooth and comfortable shave, even over tricky shaving areas like knees and ankles.
Olay Moisture Bars contain skin-enhancing elements found in Olay products: Petrolatum helps lock in skin’s moisture for less dryness and Glycerin helps offer that goddess glow! Just wet the razor to release a light lather – no separate shave cream required.
As with most Venus razors, new Venus & Olay also features a rounded, pivoting head designed for women’s curves, and a soft-grip ergonomic handle for confident control, even in wet and soapy environment

My take:

So there are some real positives to this razor! This might sound strange, but I’m razor picky. For a long time, I loved the Intuition razor for a long time, but it only worked on my legs because it was too bulky for my underarms & didn’t always get my ankles well. Then I fell for the Gillette Venus (the regular one I guess?) because it was so precise. But after using the Intuition, it was annoying to use a shave gel again because I had to, not by choice. Then in walks this beauty from Gillette Venus & Olay.

Big moisturizing head? Check! Look at it next to my Essie bottle for reference!

Great blades that kill every hair? Check.

Ah, the power of this combination. Ultra moisturizing, sturdy, comfortable to hold, & come with a much better holder than the previous box like contraption. I like the simplicity of just the hanging hook. Also, much less slippery/bulky than my Intuition as well!

My ONLY negative? The price is pretty steep for only one blade. Yep, mine only came with one blade in this package. But, I love what it does. I pretty much switched out 2 razors for 1! I don’t recommend this one if you don’t shave daily though because your bar will get funky. Also remember to keep it in a dry place so the bar doesn’t melt off!

Where you can get it:

A refillable Venus & Olay with one replacement cartridge sells for approximately $8.99-$10.99. Packages of three replacement cartridges are available for about $14.99 – $19.49.

Venus & Olay will be available starting March 15, 2012 at food, drug, convenience and mass merchandise stores throughout the United States.

For more information, visit the Gillette Venus site.

H2PRO Vivace 1″ Flat Iron Review, Demo, & GIVEAWAY!

March 23, 2012 By StephanieLouise 8442 Comments2012-03-23+16%3A02%3A00StephanieLouise

So, do you want to win your very own H2PRO Vivace 1″ Styling Flat Iron? Then you have come to the right place! One reader will win one just like I’ve reviewed here in the video! This giveaway is open to US & Canada only please!Pictures are from the Hair Products Pro site!

Enter on my Rafflecopter Widget Below! Good Luck Everyone! Don’t forget to visit Hair Products Pro for more great styling options!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Physician’s Formula Happy Booster in Natural

February 19, 2012 By StephanieLouise 8675 Comments2012-02-19+20%3A08%3A00StephanieLouise

Physician’s Formula has always been a favorite brand. From the eyeliners to gorgeous highlights, I am constantly picking up new products. Happy Booster was a natural fit for me. Hearts? Check. Pink? Yep. Gorgeous? Duh.

Basically this is everything romantic I’ve ever wanted in a blush. Okay, so it claims its supossed to make me happier. Honestly, it kinda does. I mean, hello, look at it! Who wouldn’t be at least a tad smiley looking at hearts as gorgeous as these?

So now down to the nitty gritty!

What Physician’s Formula says:
Ultra-soft and blendable blushing powder features a fresh and vibrant mix of blushing tones infused with a pop of color to create a healthy glow. Multi-reflective pearls provide a soft iridescence to highlight contour and add radiance to cheeks. Infused with our Happy Boost Blend, featuring Happy Skin and Euphoryl, natural plant extracts which have been shown to promote a feeling of happiness by mimicking the effect of Endorphins and helping protect the skin from environmental stress. The sweet scent of Violet provides a feeling of joy each time you apply.

First Impressions:
It is gorgeous. I love the brush included although I rarely use it. In a pinch though, it sweeps the color on my cheeks lightly for a natural flush. The packaging is beautiful & eye catching. Hello metallic hot pink! The hearts are so fun but most importantly each is a gorgeous shade. I recommend this for a nice, healthy glow. Although the photos detect shimmer its not packed with it so it comes off as more of a gleam.

Where You Can Get It:
Drugstores & megastores! You can also find it at Ulta. This retails around $11.99 although you can often snag a great deal.

Have you picked up one of these? I’d love to hear about the bronzer as well! Do you think this product would make you smile too?

*Item(s) sent to me for review are featured in this post. This in no way guarantees coverage. All of my reviews and reactions are honest, I would never recommend something that didn’t deserve it. For more information, please see my disclosure policy in the top bar.*

Mahya Mineral Eyeshadows Swatches & Review

January 9, 2012 By StephanieLouise 887Leave a Comment2012-01-09+15%3A45%3A00StephanieLouise

These eyeshadows are a whole new realm for me. They are vibrant, cruelty-free, & are the first mineral eyeshadows I’ve seen that I can use on more than just my lids. Whether you’re a Mahya fan or new to the brand, read on for more information & stunning swatches.

About Mahya-

Mahya grew up in Europe where her family owned and operated several successful beauty spas. Applying the secrets of the European beauty industry, she introduced her own line of pure mineral-based cosmetics after moving to the United States. The success of her cosmetic line was in part attributed to the testimonials of her clients professing that the all natural and nourishing cosmetic base left their skin feeling healthy and vibrant. Mahya has been in the Dallas area selling her line of cosmetics since 2001. Her dedication and commitment to her cosmetics has resulted in a superior quality product line that has expanded to include cleansers, lotions and bronzers.

So now that you know a bit about the woman behind the brand, jump down to the coolest things about the brand. I could write it out in my own words, but they seriously nailed it on the website.

Mahya Minerals Eye Shadows come in Lustrous Minerals (Ultra fine shimmers), Two Tones Lustrous Minerals (Pearl with Multi Effect Shades), Glimmering Minerals (Sparkly) and matte blends that accomplish any look you want.

-Like jewels for the eyes
–Less expensive and much more fun!
-Mix and match your favorite shades and create new eye colors. -Matches to every mood, every occasion, everyday. -Multi-tasking: use as an eye shadow, eyeliner, lip gloss, nail polish. -Create your own color.

So seriously, how cool is that! They not only have the most gorgeous shades, but they also encourage you to find varying uses! For instance, you can also buy all the blushes as eyeshadows. I also like using Fairy Tale as a lip highlight, so I definitely love the many uses. I mean, I do it anyway sometimes, but knowing its safe is even better. One thing I regret is that none of my shades are matte. Maybe next time!

Now its time for swatches! Each of these were done on bare skin AKA no primer. I seriously only used the TINIEST bit of each for this great color payoff.

Shade

Flash

From top to bottom we have Fairy Tale, Deep Sea, Grass, Turquoise, Barbie, & Sugar Plum.

Overall, these eyeshadows are fab. These are extremely buildable but messy, like all loose shadows. As always, tap off excess & build until you reach your desired shade. French Kiss makes a great highlight, I’ve been using it quite a bit. Then again, I always love sparkly neutrals. Deep Sea & Sugar Plum make gorgeous eyeliners as well, I just use a slanted eyeliner brush to apply. I picked Barbie because I can never find fab pink eyeshadows for a reasonable price but I haven’t put it to the test yet. Clearly Grass & Turquoise are right up my ally. Besides not getting any mattes, I so wished I had gotten a purple. Gorgeous!

If you have tried matte shades or any of these shadows, please do share! Which shades are your favorite? For more information, feel free to visit www.mahyamineralmakeup.com ! Stay tuned for upcoming eyeshadow looks as well as a review on Mahya eye primer, concealer, foundation, blush & bronzer! I feel a full Mahya tutorial coming on!

Fragrance Review: Sula Rollerball in Blackberry Blush

November 26, 2011 By StephanieLouise 8971 Comment2011-11-26+14%3A40%3A00StephanieLouise

$18 for a Rollerball.

So I picked this up at Ulta ages ago, took my picture, then have been in love with it ever sense. I always have at least one fragrance in my purse (usually more like a mini spray & a solid too) because I pet sit & frequently touch up. When its this bitter and cold, it normally throws off my routine! This was a very unexpected scent for me but its intoxicating.
Ulta’s Description:
Blackberry Blush: Simple and fresh, Blackberry Blush gives you a yummy, fruity aura. Stiletto Musk: Captivating and simple, Stiletto Musk exudes warmth and sexiness. Features notes of musk, amber and dusky florals.

Not your everyday citrus or too youthful smelling, its a new twist on the warmth of berries. They say you can layer it with other fragrances but eh…that’s not for me. Too complicated & I think its perfect as it is. Please keep in mind that fragrances will smell different on everyone due to our skin’s chemistry, but I definitely think this is a must try. If you’re unsure, definitely wait for a fragrance deal! Ulta has some great ones back to back usually. I added this to my basket when I was picking up another fragrance to add up to $50 for a freebie.

Freeman Beauty Prize Pack Giveaway!

November 23, 2011 By StephanieLouise 89815 CommentsFreeman+Beauty+Prize+Pack+Giveaway%212011-11-23+14%3A11%3A00StephanieLouise

When Freeman Beauty contacted me about hosting a giveaway, I was thrilled! You lovely readers always have so many great things to say about my face mask obsession so now is a great chance to win a few of my favorites! One winner will recieve an identical prize pack to the pictures below sent directly from Freeman Beauty! Stay tuned for reviews of all these products if I haven’t already! I have used everything in this kit before, but haven’t always typed up so I am POSITIVE you are getting an amazing prize pack, but only one can win!

What You’ll Receive:

– 1 Pink Freeman Hanging Travel Case

– 1 Chocolate & Strawberry Facial Clay Mask (Full Size!)

– 1 Avocado & Oatmeal Facial Clay Mask (Satchel Size)

– 1 Cucumber Peel-Off Facial Mask (Satchel Size)

– 1 Pssssst Shower Cap

– 1 Freeman Hand Towel

Mini Review of the Prize:

All in all, this is a perfect prize pack for this time of year! The bag is a great hanging organizer with lots of pockets and one very large (from top to bottom!) section in the back where the towel fits perfectly. Personally, I like bringing my own face towel and wash cloth when I travel so this is great! The Chocolate & Strawberry Clay Mask is definitely one of my favorites. I am a big fan of soothing my sweet cravings without the caloric guilt. This reminds me of those romantic chocolate dipped strawberries but in an effective mask. You’ll want to eat it.

I’ve been putting together a review for the Cucumber Peel-Off Mask (one of my favorites!) which I’ve been using as long as I can remember. The Avocado & Oatmeal Clay Mask smells earthy and natural but definitely draws out impurities! Lastly, the shower cap. This seriously arrived JUST as I needed a new one to travel with for the holidays! Coincidence? Check out my review for Pssssst Dry Shampoo as well, if you win you’ll recieve a coupon!

For ALL of my readers, I offer up a brand new code to use on Freeman Beauty’s Website! Simply enter ‘BLOGGER25’ & you’ll get 25% off your order! Christmas shopping perhaps?

The winner will be announced the middle of next month. Remember if the winner doesn’t respond within 3 days, a new winner will be chosen so keep your eyes peeled!

XOXOXO Readers & the VERY best of luck!

Simply fill out the form below courtesy of Rafflecopter!

Review: Freeman Peppermint & Plum Soothing Liquid Foot Powder

November 21, 2011 By StephanieLouise 8991 Comment2011-11-21+13%3A47%3A00StephanieLouise

Image from Freeman Beauty.

What Freeman Beauty Says: This unique formula starts as a lotion to soften your feet and transforms into a light silky powder to keep feet comfortable and refreshed. Extracts of Plum and Peppermint energize.

My Impressions: Talk about a winter must-have! So this lotion moisturizes…while keeping my feet dry. Strange combo but definitely what my boots and slippers were calling for. See, in my house, we have heating wars. I run hot while he runs cold, so whoever attacks the thermostat without the other noticing wins. I’ve been wearing lots of boots which is great for outdoors, but eventually my internal thermometer meets all the extra winter gear. I either have dry feet or sweaty feet. Ew much?

Basically, you put it on like regular lotion. You rub it in and it soaks in nicely. Then it coats your foot in a superfine powder, like a high-end locker room secret. Scented with plum and peppermint, it isn’t your average athlete product. I can’t wait to use it in summer when the humidity here is ridiculous! Also, it doesn’t leave my socks all slimy like some of my lotions!

Where You Can Get It: You can get this off Freeman’s website HERE for only $3.79 but you can also search the site for stores near you carrying Freeman products!