Beauty UK Lip Lust and Pearl Eyeliner Review

Beauty UK Lip Lust in Date Night and Pearl Eyeliner in Oceania

Lip Lust in Date Night and Pearl Eyeliner in Oceania swatched on my arm

Pearl Eyeliner in Oceania

Lip Lust in Date Night

Applicator is convenient for traveling.

The lip lust is very glossy yet non-sticky and non-drying. It is not seem to last as long as the sticky glosses. Date Night is a pretty, almost bubblegum but darker pink. It contains fragrance, which makes it smell a bit like strawberry. It's a nice scent - but like many others, I dislike added fragrance in my cosmetics. The glosses are sold by Beauty UK for £2.99 each.

Review Summary: Beauty UK Lip Lust

Pigmentation: Decent pigmentation for a lip gloss, but nothing spectacular. 4/5

Lasting Power: This is not a long-wear lip gloss. 2/5

Packaging: Squeeze bottle with applicator makes application simple. 4.5/5

Value: Not a bad price, but not cheap for the lack of longevity. 3/5

Overall: B-

I love the fine shimmer in the pearl eyeliner. The color is not something I would usually wear (I wear black liner mostly), but it can be subtle and easy to wear. It is liquid and will smudge when you first apply (so blend quickly), but once dried it does not fade or smear. It is not waterproof, but I have worn it for 6 hours without it budging. One thing I don't like is that it is difficult to make a really good thin line. If you are going for the thinest little line next to your lashes, I would not recommend this. Otherwise, it is a beautiful liner well worth its value. These pearl liners costs £3.49 each and will last you a long time.

Review Summary: Beauty UK Pearl Eyeliner

Pigmentation: Pigmentation is decent. 4/5

Lasting Power: Once it dries (within seconds), it lasts for hours without smudging. 4.5/5

Packaging: The packaging is cute and different, but could have been made more compact. 4/5

Value: I hate their pricing. A full sized jar costs $6.00 and you can get 2-2.5 grams without the sifter and 1.5-2 grams of product with the sifter. The sample jar costs $2.50 and gives you 1 gram of product. I think I would just rather get a sample jar every time. The fact that there is such a range in the amount of product you get bothers me. 3/5

Overall: B

If you live in the UK, you can find Beauty UK products at SuperDrug. Otherwise, you can buy them directly at the beautyuk website. It is a little difficult to try this brand if you are in the States because international shipping outside of Europe is £6.95 (Over $11).

Dislcaimer: This review contains products sent to me for review consideration. As always, everything I write is my honest opinion and I will only recommend something that I wholeheartedly like.

Disclaimer: This post contains product(s) sent to me for testing or reviewing consideration. I am neither paid nor compensated for my opinion. My priority is always to my readers and I express only my honest opinion in every post.

Lioele Beyond the Solution BB Cream Review and Swatch

If you follow me on Twitter, you'll know that I have been looking into BB (Blemish Balm) creams lately. I've avoided them until now, fearful that they're only over-glorified tinted moisturizers. A few days ago I decided to buy a sample of Lioele Beyond the Solution from Pretty & Cute for $5.00. I used coupon lovelioele for 10% off plus $2.14 shipping which gave me a grand total $6.64. It shipped almost immediately and I got the parcel within two days of buying!

It turns out that the tube is really small! I would have bought the 30 mL bottle, which was 6 times larger for only double the price... I didn't buy it because I didn't want to get stuck with something I might hate or worse - was allergic to. I regret my decision now because my skin rather likes this cream.

The packaging is adorable - but there was barely anything in this little fella.

Luckily, freebies came with purchase! Super BB Cream sample and False Lashes.

NOTD: OPI Monsooner or Later

I can't pull of red very well, but OPI's Monsooner or Later (India Collection) is such a wearable orange-red polish. :)

Sigma Beauty $350 Summer Giveaway and Sigma Coupon 2013

Look to the right sidebar for the newest Sigma coupon code 2015.

This giveaway is closed. Check out new giveaways. 

This giveaway is for subscribers of this blog and is open internationally. (You can join this blog via Google Friend Connect and press the +1 button on the sidebar under subscribe.) To enter this giveaway, you only have to fill out the form below with your Google Friend Connect name and an email address. One entry per person. Winners will be drawn and announced at the end of every month. I will also email winners directly.

May Giveaway Prizes - (1) Sigma Travel Kit in black, (1) Sigma Synthetic Face Kit
June Giveaway Prizes - (1) Sigma Beauty $100 Gift Certificate
July Giveaway Prizes - (2) Sigma Beauty $25 Gift Certificates
August Giveaway Prizes - (1) Sigma Beauty $100 Gift Certificate

Previous Winners:
Amanda Garcia (mand***@yahoo.com) won the $100 Gift Certificate
Rashimi Nair (@Blabberaroma) and Meg (@MegMehP) won the $25 Gift Certificates
Yen (xabixab*******@yahoo.com) won a $100 Gift Certificate
xyoulovekarlene (xyoulovekar****@gmail.com from colossalcosmos.blogspot.com) won a Sigma Travel Kit
cassy_catastrophe (KilljoysMakeN****@yahoo.com) won a Sigma Synthetic Face Kit
Haven't won yet? You can visit Sigma and use coupon code TEEN2011 for 10% off. Check out all Sigma coupons here.






Note: This page contains information on Sigma Beauty Giveaways , Sigma Makeup Giveaways , sigmabeauty.com Giveaways , Sigma Giveaways , and Sigma Makeup Giveaway 2011.
Disclaimer: I am a proud Sigma Beauty affiliate. The $25 gift certificates were bought by me. The rest of the prizes are sponsored by Sigma and they will be sending those prizes out directly.

KQC Professional Ceramic Styling Iron with X-Heat Review

KQC Professional Ceramic X-Heat - $159.95

Thin enough to curl hair.

Temperature setting can go from 140 to 410 °F.

This 1" flat iron heats up quickly (within seconds) and straightens my hair well, taming any frizz or flyaway.  The temperature stays consistent and doesn't overheat like some irons. The plates are ceramic, which makes the heating process less damaging. My hair slides very smoothly through the plates. One thing that bothers me is the little red light that keeps on blinking when it is heating up. It blinks forever when I have the temperature on low, which is how I like to straighten my hair since I have thin hair. I'm not sure they're all supposed to be like that though. This flat iron is slim and can be used to straighten or curl hair. It's compact size makes it handy for traveling or for the dorm rooms.  Overall, it a good straightener for its value. You can buy this or similar flat irons at Flat Iron Experts for about $100 less than in salons.

I also received the KQC Thermal Shine Spray from Flat Iron Experts:

KQC Thermal Shine Spray - $13.99

"KQC Thermal Shine Spray is an ion enriched polishing complex formulated for superior heat protection and ultra gloss hair shine. Lightweight, non-greasy micro mist spray that eliminates frizz, softens and polishes hair without build ups. Designed for all hair types. Use with flat iron, curling iron or hair dryers."

KQC Thermal Shine Spray works as described, but I find the smell to be too much. It is not an offensive scent, but it can be overpowering. I love the polish and shine it leaves in my hair, but it makes my hair flat and even less voluminous. I recommend it for people with dull, thick hair. If you have flat or oily hair, go for a regular heat protectant so it doesn't weigh your hair down.

Disclaimer: This post contains product(s) sent to me for testing or reviewing consideration. I am neither paid nor compensated for my opinion. As always, my priority is to my readers and I express only my honest opinion in every post.

Revision Skincare Intellishade SPF 45 Matte Tinted Moisturizer Review

The Revision Skincare Intellishade SPF 45 Matte is an excellent combination of moisturizer, foundation and sunscreen. It is non-greasy and goes on smoothly without streaking. It did not cause me any breakouts, whiteheads or negative effects like new products tend to. It is a true matte with high SPF coverage. This will surprisingly suit most skin colors well - but with only one shade, it won't do much for really dark or really light skin. The Intellishade technology is supposed to match the color to every skin type, but I think it only works so well because the foundation is sheer.

Lorac Swatches (Plus H&M Dress)

My order from Hautelook came in today. This is my first time ordering from them so I'm pretty excited. Everything was $2 apiece. :) Great deal considering they're usually five-ten times the price at Sephora. I think these are getting discontinued, but for a limited time you can pick them up at Lorac for $2.

Lorac On Screen Duo in Fame & Fortune, Rich & Famous, Champagne & Caviar. Don't you just love the names?

After reading many negative reviews complaining about these duos being difficult, I was afraid the eyeliners would be difficult to apply but they are so rich and smooth. The highlight that comes in each duo is fantastic and a lot better than the posh eyeshadow I got.

Lorac baked eyeshadows in Social, Drama and Posh! Had I known the duo highlight was so awesome, I would have reconsidered getting Posh. But no, I had to buy it... it's called Posh!

Pigmented - but even better with some water (coming soon).

Wearing Lorac eyeshadows and Fame & Fortune liner,  Everyday Minerals Waffle Cone Blush,  Revision Skincare Intellishade SPF 45 Matte Tinted Moisturizer, and a dress from H&M. (You can see my swatched arm!)

Lancome Génifique Youth Activating Serum Review

Our first skincare that boosts the activity of genes and stimulates the production of youth proteins.

The Lancome Génifique Youth Activating Serum I ordered finally arrived on my doorstep this morning. I ordered two: one my my mom and one for me. This is my third time ordering it and we are both still loving it. The stuff is amazing - but at $98 for a 1.7 oz bottle, it's really burning a hole in my pocket.

This serum goes on light with a smooth texture. It adds luminosity and evens out my skin. I use it mostly to soften my skin and for preventive care. Because it is so expensive, I try not to use much and leave most of it to my mother. It is the only thing she really swears by (that and Vitamin E).

My mother noticed a reduction in her wrinkles after just weeks of use. She said her skin felt tighter. This is the only thing I ever bought her that she has requested for more! She also swears it cured her acne - but I don't know if I quite believe it. Her skin is clear now, but I can't say for sure it's from the serum.

I really recommend you try Génifique Youth Activating Serum if you are at all interested. Don't buy the full size, get some sample packets from a Lancome counter to try. If you order from Lancome online, they always have coupons for a free 0.25 oz sample. (If you do buy, remember to search for coupons and cash back offers.) A 0.67 oz bottle of Génifique costs $58 - so the deluxe sample is a great offer.

Montagne Jeunesse Face Mask Review

I love Montagne Jeunesse masks! They are natural, vegetarian, cruelty-free and cheap. Best of all, they don't break me out one bit! I have sensitive skin, but none of the masks caused any adverse reactions. I find them cleansing and hydrating at the same time. The deep cleansing masks actually reduces any redness or blotches on my face. All the masks have different benefits, you can always get the one that suits your needs the most.

Granted these masks are messier to apply than cloth facial masks, they also have better benefits. Facial cloth masks are usually just moisturizer on a piece of cloth. These Montagne Jeunesse masks can provide deep cleansing while hydrating your skin. I always feel brightened and rejuvenated after using one. Oh, did I mention they smell completely delicious and edible? Just try not to eat any.

The mask can be a bit difficult to remove completely after it dries, so I suggest wearing one before you shower or using a toner after washing it off your face with warm water. Don't fall asleep wearing it.

My favorite one is the Montagne Jeunesse Dead Sea Anti-Stress Mud Masque. It does not smell as delicious as Strawberry Souffle, but it opens up my pores very well, making the removal of blackheads super easy. It is also supposed to have additional anti-stressing properties, but I always feel stress-free when lying down to enjoy my face mask facials. The mud mask does harden on your face like any mud mask and can cause mild discomfort, but I enjoy the feeling because it feels like my skin is tightening.

You can find these masks at Walmart or in just about every country. If you're in the States, you can order them at neotericcosmetics.com for $2.25. Otherwise, you can visit the Montagne Jeunesse website for a full list of retailers.

If you're interested in their products, why not like Montagne Jeunesse on Facebook? They're always offering fabulous promotions and giveaways. So now you can try before you buy!

Disclaimer: This post contains product(s) sent to me for testing or reviewing consideration. I am neither paid nor compensated for my opinion. As always, my priority is to my readers and I express only my honest opinion in every post.

Blogs I heart : Le Chateau des Fleurs , Viva Luxury , Ruby Girl , The Man Repeller , Sawan

Everyday Minerals for Cheek, Eyes and Lips Review

Everyday Minerals sent over a few of their makeup products for me to test.

Hot Chocolate  & Good China eyeshadows, Waffle Cone & Snuggle blushes, Blushing Park lippy

Batiste Dry Shampoo Review

It is always better to wash your hair every other day rather than everyday because washing your hair too often can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause dryness or damage. I have very dry hair, so I hate having to wash it every day. The problem is that I also have flat, sparse hair. What to do?

The Batiste Dry Shampoo can be sprayed in your hair to help it appear clean between washes. It reduces the oil and gives a little volume. Simply spray and lift. There is no water needed.

I will be testing the Batiste Dry Shampoo in Blush. Original is clean and fresh, while Blush adds a hint of floral tones with notes of red hibiscus,peony, tuberose and lily.

Before:

I have no hair, no volume.

Two days unwashed and my hair goes completely oily and flat.

After Batiste:

More hair?

Less greasy!

I can style it now.

Some texture too!

The smell is wonderful and light. The product itself is not flaky, powdery or sticky. It adds a good amount of volume and greatly reduces the appearance of oil in your hair. You can also spray it in the ends of your hair for a little added texture.

It feels a little like hair spray when you're spraying it on, but you'll notice it blending in quite nicely as you massage it into your scalp, lifting your roots. Like any hair product, this can become heavy if you add too much of it. A slight residue can appear if you don't massage it well into your hair. I have very dark hair but there is no buildup because I thoroughly massage it in and fluff my hair up.

The Batiste Dry Shampoo works a lot better than the Osis+ Dust It Mattifying Powder that I tried last year. (That was just sticky powder.)  At Ulta, a 5.05 fl. oz can of Batiste sells for $7.99 while the 1.6 fl. oz travel size sells for $3.99. It's something good to have with you or around the house for whenever you have bad or flat hair. Personally, I'll be using this every other day.

Disclaimer: This post contains product(s) sent to me for testing or reviewing consideration. I am neither paid nor compensated for my opinion. As always, my priority is to my readers and I express only my honest opinion in every post.

mark Get a Tint Tinted Moisturizer Lotion SPF 15 Review

Last week I decided that I would become a part time mark representative. I shelled out $20 for the starter kit and the "opportunity" to sell mark. The starter kit comes with: moisturizer, makeup bag, mini travel brush set, blush, 2 eyeshadows, body lotion, hookup with lip gloss and mascara. I showcased the eyeshadows in a previous post, but here is my review of their tinted moisturizer. You don't get to pick the shade (which is ridiculous). I will review the other items if I ever get to them.

mark Get a Tint tinted moisturizer  lotion in buff/natural.

Doesn't look natural yet.

Sigma Beauty Dry'n Shape Review

I know everyone has been buzzing about these things, but it is for a good reason. If you haven't already been converted to the Sigma Dry'n Shape, hear me out. It does everything it claims.

The elastic on the Dry'n Shape pulls the water out of your brushes in an upwards motion so that water evaporates from the specially designed Sigma fabric, leaving your brushes dry and protected. This Dry'n Shape will mold your brushes into its perfect form while drying it within 4-6 hours. You can also use the Dry'n Shape as a brush holder or dry your brushes on-the-go. There is no longer a need to dry your brushes upside down or use brush guards to keep them intact. The Dry'n Shape is also washable (although there is no need to wash it as the fabric dries clean completely on its on).

The quality of the material is excellent. At $29, this would be a bargain even if it were only a brush holder. But trust me, it is so much more than that.

12 slots for your brushes. This will fit even your largest and most dense brushes. The smaller liner and shadow brushes won't fit snugly into the drying fabric, but it is not like you need help drying those tiny brushes anyway.

The magnetic closure works fantastically to secure your brushes in place for travel.

You can throw in any type of brush for a quick dry - even combine brushes in one slot.

You can even dry your brushes upside down!