Recent Favorites: Inspiration Cosmetics, Yves Rocher

I've been busy with work lately (and here I thought I was on holiday) so please excuse my lack of detailed posts. I just wanted to share with you today some recent beauty favorites. Great products to start the new year out with, I hope! Look forward to the full reviews for these little charms soon.

Inspiration Cosmetics Imagine - Awe Inspiring Eyes and Face Make-up Kit

Nail of the Day and UNT Color Nail Polish Swatches

I just thought I'd share my favorite nail polish as of late: UNT Color New Bed Sheets. It's such a vibrant and lovely color. Best of all - it matches my phone case! 

UNT Color Nail Polish in New Bed Sheets

UNT Nail Lacquer creates a smooth and uniform finish that is ultra vibrant. Its durable and chip-resistant formula enables the high-gloss shine that lasts. The nail polish contains vitamin F to deliver extra repair care - plus it is free of formaldehyde and harmful phthalate esters.

Discovering My Stash: Flirt! Dreamy Eyes Eyeshadow

As I was going through my storage cases this weekend, I found a few beloved items that I've completely neglected in recent months - or years. One such item is my favorite Flirt! Dreamy Eyes Eyeshadow. I bought this eyeshadow a few years back. It's probably passed it's shelf life, but I have a difficult time parting with my favorites. I have a new goal this coming 2012: I am going to gather up all my "favorite" beauty items and make a promise to use up every single one of them by the end of the year. One year may sound like a long time, but I ensure you, I am being quite ambitious.

Flirt! Dreamy Eyes Eyeshadow in Witchy (09)

EXPRESS Beauty Collection

Did you know that Express has launched some of their very first beauty products earlier last month? They are now available online and in-stores! I've always been a huge fan of Express pants - and their new line of cosmetics is not too shabby either.

My new favorite toy from the Express Beauty Collection.

Favorite Beauty Products of 2011

Happy Holidays from Handmade Reviews

Thank you mochadad for the holiday card!

Thank you for a lovely year! Let's look forward to a beautiful 2012 filled with wonders, with goals, with success, and most importantly, with friends.

Some lovely holiday giveaways ending soon...

Sigma Monthly Giveaway & Sigma Coupon  ends 12/31/2011
Win at least $100 worth of Sigma Gift Certificate every single month! Check back monthly for new prizes and new Sigma brushes coupon codes.
Julep Maven Giveaway  ends 12/31/2011
Win a month of Julep Maven intro box beauty goodies!

More Giveaways

Jouer Nude Glisten Swatches and Pochette (Holiday 2011 Edition)

Jouer Limited Edition Nude Glisten Mini Moisturizing Lip Gloss

The Pure Natural Skincare Vitamin C Line (By Green People) Review

Let me be frank, I have never heard of The Pure Natural Skincare before trying their Vitamin C line. And I'm sure most people have not heard of them either. I am always a little weary to try a brand I know so little about, so I looked up reviews of their products and company beforehand - but to no avail. They are a relatively new brand and have little to no web presence as far as I know. I did the next best thing I could: look up the ingredients of their products one by one. (They also have an Ingredient Glossary, which helps to explain the benefits of each ingredient they use.) Their products consist mainly of common plant extracts, vitamins, and inert organic ingredients. I deemed their products safe and went on a month of my Vitamin C skincare trial. And I'm glad I did, because this line of skincare is truly a gem that deserves more attention then they are getting.

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that slows the rate of free-radical damage that may damage collagen and cause skin dryness, fine lines and wrinkles.

Korres Quercetin & Oak Antiageing Eye Primer Review

Korres Quercetin & Oak Antiageing Eye Primer is a 3-in-1 primer, corrector, and anti-aging product for the eyes. It provides a smooth canvas around the delicate eye area, ensuring crease-proof, long-lasting eye shadow and concealer wear. It is enriched with quercetin and oak extracts to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and to provide softer skin while improving skin texture. The apricot undertone corrects darkness and imperfections on the eyelid and undereye area.

Beauty Break Time: What Do You Want this Holiday?

What is on top of your holiday or "want" list this season? Give us some insights on things you may want to receive as gifts - or perhaps want to win in a future giveaway! Who knows, maybe your most coveted gift will become a prize in an upcoming competition. And if you're not one to desire things, list some of the best gifts you've given or received! It never hurts to share insights on gift-giving. ;)

Sorry for the lack of discussions lately, but I'm really trying to start them up again! Last week's random comment winner of the $10 Sigma Gift Certificate is: pichi

Beauty Break Time is series of weekly debate topics and questions to get the audience to participate in discussions. Every week, one participant is selected to win a beauty prize. To make sure you receive your prize, leave a form of contact with your discussion response. Forms of contact can include email, website, Twitter, Facebook, etc. A new winner is announced every Wednesday.

Lip Savvy ColorGlam Gloss Review

Lip Savvy ColorGlam Gloss combines powerful anti-aging, pain-free plumping, intensehydration, and radiant lip color in an easy-to-use fashion accessorizing pen.

Handmade Reviews Beauty Blog Awards 2011 Winner

After months of nominations and voting, a winner has finally been decided on for the 2011 Beauty Blog Awards. The purpose of the Handmade Reviews Beauty Blog Awards is to motivate beauty blogs that create, that inspire, and is genuinely loved by readers. For that reason, the winner was chosen from the tabulated votes of our thoughtful readers. Everyone, please spare some time to visit these wonderful blogs and congratulate them on their grand success!

 

Lime Crime Carousel Gloss Review and Swatches - Candy Apple

Lime Crime Makeup Carousel Gloss in Candy Apple ($17)

Lime Crime Makeup has long been known for the vibrant colors of their makeup, so when they came out with their Carousel Gloss, I knew I had to try one for myself. My first impression of the Carousel Gloss was that the packaging is absolutely gorgeous! I don't think my picture does it justice, but the bright and fine glitters create such a shine when you swirl the gloss around. Carousel is truly the correct name for this product. The color of the lip gloss itself is vibrant and pigmented, so I don't need to pair it with a lipstick at all.

Sigma Brushes Coupons and Extravaganza Complete Kit Review, Photos

See the complete Sigma Brushes Coupons 2013 for the Extravaganza Brushes.

The Sigma Extravaganza Full Kit ($510, released 12/19/11) is Sigma's latest makeup brush set and consists of 29 of their most famous, impeccable beauty brushes. The handles are laser engraved with the Sigma logo and the ferrules are plated with 18K gold. The Extravaganza Full Kit is Sigma's most complete and luxurious brush set til date.

So how are the brushes in this collection and more importantly - are they worth the hefty price tag?

Liz Earle Sheer Skin Tint SPF15 Review and Swatch

Liz Earle Sheer Skin Tint SPF15 in Bare 01

The perfect way to enhance your skin. Our rich and creamy, yet lightweight formula leaves all skin types looking naturally dewy, even and radiant. With mineral UV SPF15, it’s enriched with our own blend of natural source vitamin E, borage and avocado, specially selected to work in harmony with our skincare range.

Julep Maven Review, Nail Polish Swatches and Giveaway

 Just last month, I made a brief post about monthly makeup subscription services, admitting that I have never subscribed to one. Frequent reader and fellow blogger, Jojo, voiced her curiosity in Julep Maven. As a beauty addict, I was quite curious about the program myself. And later that week, by chance or by miracle, I was offered a chance to try the Julep Maven starter box myself. Now let's dive into the goodies. (For photographic purposes, I contained my excitement and prevented myself from tearing the packaging to bits.)

Sigma Bunny Giveaway Winner and Sigma Coupon 2012

Don't fret if you didn't win. You can still enter in any one of our bountiful giveaways for another chance. Or if you must have Sigma brushes and makeup now, be sure to use one of the Sigma Brushes Coupons for discounts and free gifts with purchase!

Winner of the $100 Sigma Gift Certificate is @cellphie20!
Congratulations! I have sent you a DM on Twitter. :)

I always feel a little bad that I can't give prizes to everyone, but don't worry, I will always try! There will be 7 winners for this month's Monthly Giveaway, 14 winners for the JewelMint, Sigma and MAC Giveaway, in addition to some other giveaways coming up. 'tis the season to give and be joyous!

eos Lip Balm Smooth Sphere Holiday Pack Review

Evolution of Smooth (eos) Lip Balm is an item most beauty lovers have probably heard of - partly because it is a huge hit among the beauty community - but mostly because it's unique appearance promises it to be a topic of discussion. This holiday, eos has given us another reason for discussion by releasing their limited edition Lip Balm Smooth Sphere Holiday Pack.

eos'Lip Balm Smooth Sphere Holiday Pack includes Limited-Edition Strawberry Sorbet (pink), Sweet Mint (green), and Passion Fruit (purple).

Skindinavia Makeup Finishing Spray

The Skindinavia Makeup Finishing Spray is currently a favorite item in my morning beauty routine. Now, I've never been much of a "finishing spray" kind of girl because I don't have oily skin and melting or fading makeup was never much of a personal concern. This finishing spray really changed my mind though. It does more than just set your makeup to last 16+ hours. I like to think that it makes my face look dewier. I can definitely see a difference with the lasting vibrancy of my makeup as well.

Iris Apfel for MAC, MAC Naturally (January 5, 2012 - February 9, 2012)

Another year, another opportunity for MAC to release their always-coming limited edition collections. I've begun to grow tired of their (sometimes rather rushed) releases, especially since they always pick my favorite items to "limit" while adding the less-than-loved items to the permanent collection. I won't be covering all MAC releases - partially because there are so many, but mostly because Christine from Temptalia makes a point to post these details ASAP anyway. (It's better you hear from her promptly than my lazy self.)

Despite the complaints, these collections look pretty appetizing. Not sure I'll have any money left after the holidays to splurge on the goodies, but I'll probably pick up a lipstick or two (or four). Their MAC Naturally collection speaks right to me.

MAC Mineralize Skincare (January 5, 2012)

Making its debut in 2012, the MAC Mineralize Skincare line is made with ionized Super-Duo Charged Water technology. The collection includes Mineralize Charged Water Cleanser, which gently removes makeup without scrubbing or massaging to leave skin clear and conditioned. The Mineralize Charged Water Moisture Gel is a rich and creamy, superlight and hydrating gel. Mineralize Charged Water Moisture Eye Cream boosts the eyes to minimize dark circles and puffiness. Also included in this permanent collection are the Mineralize Charged Water Face and Body Lotion and Mineralize Charged Water.

MAC Mineralize Skincare (Permanent Collection)

Available in North America starting January 5, 2012 and Internationally February 2012 at all M·A·C locations, 1.800.588.0070 and maccosmetics.com.

I think MAC has gone a little overboard emphasizing their water-based technology - whatever that may be. Whatever it is, they sure make it sound revolutionary for what is probably just a different filtration method with added minerals.

Sigma Brushes Coupon Codes & Extravaganza Face Kit Photos and Thoughts

Getting Sigma Extravaganza Brushes? Save $21 and get a free gift when you use the sidebar coupon or one from the complete list of Sigma Brushes Coupon Codes.

I was very surprised to learn that this Extravaganza Face Kit costs a whopping $210. After opening the package, however, I can see the justification. The casing itself is sturdy, thick, and feels... expensive. The brushes are literally made of gold. Everything about this kit screams luxury. If you're someone with expensive taste, this brush kit is definitely for you. And if you think this kit costs too much, just add up the price of a few MAC brushes and it's quite equivalent. Now imagine if MAC came out with 18K plated brushes. (Can we say unaffordable?) I haven't gotten a chance to use most of these brushes so expect the full review in a few days.

Sigma Extravaganza Face Kit ($210 at sigmabeauty.com)

I have also just received the Extravaganza Full Kit (releases December 19th) and I am literally at a lost for words. It is a collector's dream collection. The Sigma Bunny Collection contains my favorite makeup brushes of this year, but no doubt the Extravaganza Full Kit is the best thing that any makeup lover could ask for this holiday season. I'm not kidding at all... If you are only going to get one kit this season, save up for the Extravaganza. You might never need another kit ever again. The Full Kit photos and impressions will be posted today.

2012 Giveaway: JewelMint, MAC, Sigma ($300+ Prizes)

Sigma April 2012 Coupon »

Confession: I went crazy last month and bought six bags of JewelMint Ornamint Bags. Each bag contains at least three jewelry items... even though I intended to give them away as gifts, I still ended up with too many! So why not share them with everyone? And along with that, I'm going to add in some MAC and Sigma goodies too! This is really a thank you gift for putting up for my nonsensical babbling. This giveaway is a bit Google-themed and ends February 29, 2012 at 11:59 EST. This is open internationally for all readers and subscribers of Handmade Reviews.

Prizes:
(2) MAC Eyeshadows or Lipsticks (of your choice)
(4) $15 Sigma Beauty Gift Certificates
(8) JewelMint Jewelry Items (various, photos to come)
= 14 Prizes/Winners worth over $300 in retail value.

GIVEAWAY CLOSED

Sigma Brushes Coupon, Extravaganza Kit, 2012 Sigma Collections

Buying Sigma Extravaganza Brushes? Save money when you use the coupon on the sidebar or check out the complete list of the new Sigma Brushes Coupon Codes.

Sigma Extravaganza Face Kit ($210) launches today

The Sigma Beauty Extravaganza Face Kit is an assortment of hand-crafted brushes with 18 karat gold-plated ferrules. The face kit features four 18K gold-plated brushes and a deluxe carrying case.

Due to a shipment delay, my photographs and full review of the Extravaganza Face Kit won't be up for another few days, after I've tested them thoroughly. On the bright side, the Extravaganza Complete Kit is being released on the 19th, so potential buyers might want to wait a bit to read up on that before deciding whether to snag the complete sets or not (one shipment = cheaper shipping).

Belli Complexion Protection Duo, Facial Hydrator, and Eye Cream Review

Belli is a luxury skin care line created to safely address the common concerns of pregnancy and early motherhood, including stretch marks, swollen feet, dry skin, c-section scars, and under-eye dark circles. The Belli line utilizes gentle and natural ingredients to ensure their variety of skin care products are safe and protection for women women during and after pregnancy, as well as for newborn babies.

Makeup Ideas for Girls Who Wear Glasses

Image courtesy of CND.
Glasses wearers like to wear fun makeup too. As I have worn glasses for a good part of my life, I get that. It's difficult to not feel a little geeky in glasses sometimes, but here are some good tips that'll keep you looking your best:

Try to use neutral colors and avoid too much glitter or shine. According to Bobbi Brown, "Wearing glasses draws plenty of attention to your eyes, so it’s best to keep your eye makeup simple. Stick to neutral shades on the eyes but remember to blend a darker color into your crease for added definition. Save the bright, bold colors for lips."

Sneak Peak: Sigma E80 Brow and Lash Brush

It has been a busy week, but I just wanted to share with you a sneak peak of the Sigma E80 Brow and Lash. Well, as much of a sneak peak as Sigma is allowing the public as of now. Release dates and further information/photos to come!

Courtesy of Simone

This coming Monday is the release of the Extravaganza Face Kit. Yes, that means finally, a Sigma Fan brush! (Way overdue, Sigma. We've been needing one for ages.) I will have reviews and photos for this collection ready soon!

Hang in there, everyone. The holidays are just around the corner! ;)

How to wear foundation that is too light or dark for you

Most of us have done it: We see a foundation, fall in love and impulsively order it without matching the correct shade. Maybe there is no correct shade or maybe your skin color is drastically different throughout the year. Regardless, here are some things you can do with foundation that is not quite your color:

1. Perhaps the easiest thing to do with a foundation that does not match is to mix it with another one. I mix a good majority of my foundations throughout the year. My Bare Escentuals foundation is way too golden for me, so I brush it over a lot of my warmer foundations.

Sigma Bunny Collection Review and Photos

Buying Bunny? Be sure to see the complete list of Sigma 2013 Coupon Codes.

Sigma Beauty Bunny Collection Review and Photos

The Bunny Collection is Sigma Beauty’s all vegan and synthetic brushes. The collection features a 12-brushes Mr or Mrs. Bunny Essential Kit ($109) and 7-brushes Mr or Mrs. Bunny Travel Kit ($59). The Mr. Bunny Kits are black while the Mrs. Bunny Kits are blue with pink ferrule. Both kits are held in a Sigma Beauty container that turns into two brush holders. Brushes included in the Essential kit are: F30 Large Powder, F40 Large Angled Contour, F50 Duo Fibre, F60 Foundation, F70 Concealer, E05 Eyeliner, E30 Pencil, E40 Tapered Blending, E55 Eye Shading, E60 Large Shader, E65 Small Angle, and E70 Medium Angled Shading.

     Gorgeous vegan brushes from the Sigma Bunny Collection

Sigma Brushes Coupon Code New 2013 10% Off

Visit our Sigma Makeup Coupons » page for the full list of Sigma Coupons.

Sigma Coupon Code 2013

STAR2012 »  10% off Sigma order plus free gift when you click coupon
(Sigma coupon code expires June 30, 2012)

Feel free to share any coupon code, promos, specials, deals, discounts, and vouchers found on Handmade Reviews with your family and friends. If you are sharing the coupon on your website, I would appreciate credit or a link back.

Visit our Sigma Makeup Coupons » page for the latest Sigma Coupon Code.

Disclaimer: I am an official Sigma Beauty Representative, thus I have obtained Sigma Coupon Code exclusively for Sigma. My priority is to my readers and I express only my honest opinion in every post. Please contact me with any questions about your Sigma coupons.

Sigma Coupon Code 2012, Giveaway Winners & Thoughts on PR Freebies

Sigma Beauty Coupon 2012

The newest Sigma Beauty Coupon Code can be found on the right sidebar -->

For a full list of Sigma coupons, including 10% off, free shipping, and sales, visit the Sigma Beauty Coupons page. New coupons are added as soon as they come out.

Sigma Beauty Giveaway Winners

- The eleven winners for the Sigma Monthly Giveaway are posted at the bottom of its giveaway page. The new December giveaway has also been posted.
- The winners of Sigma Black Friday Giveaway are @chayabunny (Twitter) and JoJo (comment).
- The winner of the last Beauty Break Time will be posted when a new discussion topic is posted. For now, everyone can still participate in the latest discussion. New discussions have been paused due to personal holiday havoc. :(