Finding the Perfect Foundation

As many woman know, finding the perfect foundation can be a daunting task. I personally have tried many brands, types, and colors over the years. I am happy to say that I have finally found the perfect foundation for me: Urban Decay Naked Skin Foundation. It is available in 18 shades, is oil-free, paraben-free, and fragrance-free. It is perfect for any skin type, offers great coverage, and feels and looks so lightweight. It doesn't feel or look like you're wearing makeup (which is the most important thing for me-I hate feeling/looking like I have heavy makeup caked on).

Check it out here: Urban Decay Naked Skin Foundation

Update on B.B. Creams

I wrote a post about B.B. Creams a few weeks ago...I have an update; I found one that works great for me. I love Urban Decay Naked Skin Beauty Balm. It is lightweight, blends well to my skin, and has SPF 20. I use this beauty balm under my Urban Decay Naked Skin foundation and my skin looks great. It looks like I'm not wearing any makeup at all (which, of course, is the point). While it is pricey compared to many drugstore brands ($34), I feel it is worth it.

Pinterest

While I have been aware of Pinterest for some time, I have just started using it several weeks ago. All I can say is that I am addicted! There are so many amazing things on there! I am particularly loving the beauty pins/boards. You can find me on Pinterest here: My Pinterest Profile

Makeup Setting Spray

I recently discovered Make It Last Prime & Set Spray by Victoria's Secret and I love it! I do not use it as a primer, but I do use it as a setting spray. I have to say that I am quite impressed with this. It costs $14 so in comparison to many other setting sprays out there, this is a good deal. I just spray it over my finished makeup and wait a few seconds for it to dry. It really does set my makeup all day. My makeup looks fresh and does not get oily throughout the day. I definitely recommend this spray to anyone looking for a quality product at an affordable price.

B.B. Cream

As you are probably aware, B.B. Creams are now extremely popular. Just about every makeup brand has their own version. I do not like heavy makeup, so I decided to try a couple of B.B. Creams. I tried Garnier and L'Oreal Paris.

Both claim to be "miracle skin perfectors." I see nothing miraculous about either. While they are reasonably priced at about $10 each, they don't do much for me. I will say that I prefer Garnier over L'Oreal B.B. Cream. First, the colors do not match my skin. 

On the left, is Garnier B.B. Cream and on the right, L'Oreal. I have fair/light skintone and I chose Garnier B.B Cream in 'light/medium' and L'Oreal in 'light.' L'Oreal starts off white and is supposed to adjust to your skin tone. As you can see from the picture, when it starts to adjust to my skin, it does not even come close. In fact, it oxidizes very quickly. I find that Garnier's B.B Cream is thicker than L'Oreal, however, it does not moisturize very well as the product claims. L'Oreal's has a built in primer so it goes on very smooth, but also does not moisturize well. While I prefer Garnier over L'Oreal, I still have to wear powder and concealer when wearing B.B. Cream. In my opinion, they do not provide a flawless look as they claim. 

My review of Too Faced Better Than False Lashes Nylon Lash Extension System

I purchased this lash extension system a few days ago at my local ULTA store for $35. This is a 3 step system:

1. prime
2. build
3. seal

The set includes an activating mascara base and top coat (steps 1 & 3) and  flexistretch nylon fibers. First you apply the mascara base. Next you use the flexistretch nylon fibers, which are best described as cotton swab like fibers. This builds the extension onto the lashes. Then you finish off with several coats of the mascara base/top coat (same wand).

Personally, I am not too impressed with this. Yes, I do see some extension, however, not much. I do not see any difference in fullness or thickness. I have seen better results with the Marilyn Monroe Collection from M.A.C. False Lashes Mascara (and Victoria's Secret Triple Drama Mascara.

Here is a 'before' and 'after' shot of my eyes using the Too Faced Better Than False Lashes System. Again, I am not too impressed with the results, especially for the price. I do not think I'll be purchasing this system again.

M.A.C. Lipglass as worn by actress, Katie Cassidy

I love Katie Cassidy's lip color in this photo. It is a beautiful shade of pink with great shine. I was having trouble finding the exact shade of M.A.C. Lipglass because the photo didn't mention it. However, I think I came really close with "Cultured A52." I love M.A.C. lipstick and this is the first time I've tried the Lipglass. While the color and shine are gorgeous, it is quite sticky. I normally stay away from sticky gloss, but the pros outweigh the cons for me. I love the fact that I can wear this lipglass alone without needing any lipstick under it. Lipliner enhances the pout, but is also not necessary.