e.l.f. 100 Eyeshadow Palette

I picked up this palette for my teenaged daughter from Sears. It was on sale for $9.98! I believe that is the cheapest I've ever seen it. I have used e.l.f. eyeshadows in the past. I think they are ok. They work so long as I have a good primer and a secondary base. Not a bad price, right?




Do you own this palette?

Three e.l.f. Studio Brushes You NEED Now! - REVIEW

More often than not when there are items out of stock on the e.l.f. website, it means they are really good products. Fortunately, elf will notify you when the products are back in stock via email if you request it.
Such was the case when my curiosity was piqued about three new Studio brushes.
They retail for $3 each. This is a very affordable price point.

The shining star of the group has to be the
Flawless Concealer Brush.

Photo Credit: eyelipsface.com

The website states, "Create an airbrush effect with the Flawless Concealer Brush using any liquid or powder concealer. The unique rounded shape allows you to contour and cover areas easily. Create buildable coverage from light to heavy for a customizable look that is smooth and flawless."

Prior to purchasing this item, I had been using my MAC 224 brush to apply my concealer. The problem was, that brush is made from natural bristles. This means that it is pourous and absorbs more product. It also sheds like CRAZY.
Such is NOT the case with the elf brush. The head is larger. It is synthetic. I have not experienced any shedding. I picked up two of these babies.


Next up is the Angled Blush Brush.

Photo Credit: eyeslipsface.com

The website says, "The slanted shape of the Angled Blush Brush offers precision application for a sculpted look. The soft dense bristles contours facial features easily. Use with cream, liquid or powder blush, bronzers or highlighters for a professional result."

Prior to purchasing this, I had been using the elf Blushing, Blending and Bronzing Brush from their $1 line. It got the job done, but I had to work harder because it's bristles are not densely packed. I used that brush because my MAC 168SE is made from natural bristles. The MAC brush tends to pick up too much product. It also stains easily. The elf Studio brush is DENSE.
This is a bonus for me, because I do not have to continue to go back into the product again and again. I pack the brush & easily blend my contour lines. I still use the $1 brush only to apply and blend Bronzer for a gradient effect. I would love to buy 2 more of the studio brush!

Finally, the Small Stipple Brush is a welcome addition to my tool arsenal.

Photo Credit: eyeslipsface.com

The website says
"Use the Small Stipple Brush to create soft layers by adding texture for a natural airbrushed result. The two layers of bristles create ultimate control from sheer to heavy coverage for small and hard to reach places. Ideal with liquid, cream or powder products, foundation, concealer, and cream blush."
I purchased this to apply my highlight. It is perfect for this task! It grabs a tiny bit of product and helps to blend it with an airbrushed finish

I would love a couple more of each of the brushes.


Do you own any of these brushes?
Do you think you need to buy them?

Sorry Albatross We Need a Break - Face Of The Day (FOTD)

Albatross was my favorite facial highlighter! That is until I found my new love, the gold in the NARS Foreplay Palette. My poor Albatross has been archived for a while.
Check out this Face Of The Day

Blackberry Pic - Indirect Sunlight

FACE

Prime - Black Radiance Anti - Shine
Foundation - MUFE HD #177
Highlight - Gold from the NARS Foreplay Palette
Contour - e.l.f. Clarifying Pressed Powder SPICE
Set - MAC Transparent Loose Powder













BROWS

Above Concealer - MAC Studio Finish - NC50
Fill - Maybelline Define A Brow - BROWNEST BROWN
Below Concealer - MAC Studio Finish - NC45

EYES

Under Eye Concealer - Lorac Cover Up C7 & MAC Select Moisture Cover NC45 set with MAC Powder WARM LIGHT
Prime -NARS Smudgeproof Eyeshadow Primer
Base - MAC Paint Pot SOFT OCHRE
Mobile Lid - Light brown from Wet n Wild Vanity Palette (MAC Texture dupe),
Crease - L'Oreal Matte SUEDE BROWN
Deepen Outer V - Dark Brown from Wet n Wild Vanity Palette
Transition - MAC Saddle
Inner Tear Duct & Highlight - L'Oreal HIP Loose Eyeshadow Pigment RESTLESS (applied w/ wet brush)
Under Lashline - Maybelline Color Tattoo 24hr Eyeshadow - TENACIOUS TEAL set with L'Oreal HiP Duo FLASHY (teal side only)
Tightline & Waterline - Urban Decay 24/7 Pencil ZERO
Top lashline - Winged liner with Wet n Wild H20 Liquid Liner BLACK
Mascara - Maybelline the Colossal GLAM BLACK
Set with Urban Decay ALL NIGHTER Spray

Blackberry Pic - Indirect Sunlight

CHEEKS

Base - L'Oreal HiP Blendable Blushing Cream TICKLED (Copper)
Powder - NARS TAJ MAHAL

LIPS

Line - NK BROWN
Fill - NARS HONOLULU HONEY
Gloss - Milani 3D DESIGNER LABEL

What is your favorite facial highlighting powder?

e.l.f. Nail Polish - RED(s)

Do you own any of these colors? Which one do you prefer?

Nails Of The Day (NOTD) - e.l.f. CHOCOLATE

(Diffused Sunlight with Flash)

Almost a week old - hence the tip wear. I really wanted to share this though.
I love it.

NK Ridge Filler Base Coat 1x
e.l.f. CHOCOLATE - Opaque with just 2 coats. This is 3
NK Express Dry Top Coat

The first coat was thin and streaky! I was really worried.
The second coat provided more coverage.
The final result was more of a bittersweet chocolate.
This was unexpected, as it ended up being much darker than the the color showing through the bottle. I think it's chic. It would probably make an awesome base for some gold Konad Nail Art.

^Diffused Sunlight No Flash ^

e.l.f. Natural Radiance Blusher - REVIEW

I decided to route through my hardly used box of makeup. I am so glad that I did. It felt like I was shopping.
I stumbled upon my e.l.f. Natural Radiance Blusher collection.

These gems are very affordable for $1 each.

I purchased all the colors except for INNOCENCE which I thought would not show up on my MAC NC50 skintone. The lighter colors could easily be used for highlight or stacked over a darker blush.

These blushes give a subtle hint of color. Some are more pigmented than others.
When used with a cream base, I find they will last all day on me. The texture can be powdery. I like the convenience of the small packaging.

(Click on any image for larger viewing)











"This exquisite, delicate, pigment payoff makes cheeks radiant combined with a healthy-looking glow. Infused with texturizing agents, skin feels smooth and pores are minimized.

INGREDIENTS:
Talc, Mica, Paraffinium Liquidum (Mineral Oil), Zinc Stearate, Titanium Dioxide(CI 77891), Kaolin , Petrolatum Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Iron Oxides(CI 77491 , CI 77492 , CI 77499), Red No.6 Lake (CI 15850), Ultramarines (CI 77007)"


COY mauve with shimmer



FLUSHED bubble gum pink with shimmer




SHY soft matte baby pink



GLOW soft pinky - coral with micro fine shimmer



BRONZED gold with shimmer



I love them all.

I give these 4 out of 5 stars. Why 4? Used alone, these blushes do not have staying power. When stacked over a cream blush base, and set with translucent powder. For me, they work just fine. The powdery texture may be off putting to some. This could get pretty messy if you are not careful.

Nails Of The Day - e.l.f. Fire Coral and NK Pink Diamond

"Borderline OBNOXIOUS", these bright coral shades are not for the conservative.
Guaranteed to make your toes pop, poolside or on the boardwalk!
These look fabulous against tanned or brown skin!


Base
3 Fire Coral
2 Pink Diamond on top of the Fire Coral on the ring finger & pinky only.
Clear Top Coat

I know it seems like a lot, but the Pink Diamond is kind of sheer and I wanted the Fire Coral to serve as a base color.

I took these photos on day 2 of having worn these polishes! I think they held up pretty well, considering all of the chores and cooking I have done.

All photos were shot under diffused natural sunlight without flash.












Do you like orange or coral nail polish?

e.l.f. Studio Cream Eyeliners

Can't wait to try these! A bargain @ $3 each!
These come in
Black, Coffee, Midnight and Ivory.

"Creates smooth lines that are defined and precise. Smudge-proof, budge-proof and water-resistant coverage for all day wear to combat against, sweat, tears and rain!


Dip a thin brush into the formula, swirl around gently until brush is saturated with color. Swipe off any excess formula on the top edge of the pot. Trace a line along the top lash line from the inner corner towards the outer corner of the eye. If desired, apply on lower lash line as well. Remove with an oil based eye makeup remover."

INGREDIENTS

Isododecane, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Polybutene, Polyethylene, Barium Sulfate, Cyclomethicone, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Propylene Carbonate, Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499), Titanium Dioxide (CI77891), Red No.40 Lake (CI 16035), Mica (CI 77019), Blue No.1 Lake (CI 42090), Ferric Ferrocyanide (CI 77510), Ultramarine Violet (CI77077).

For More Info, Click Here

Nail Polish Mini-Haul

I had a few extra pennies so I picked up two Sinful Colors Nail Polishes last week. They were BOGO (buy 1 get 1 free) at Walgreens. Whoooo hoooo!

Swatches...base coat, 3x & express dry top coat

PINK FOREVER (Pink Multi Glitter)



Tungsten Lighting (Indoor Lightbulb) No Flash



Diffused Sunlight No Flash





FORGET ME NOW (Raspberry with superfine shimmer)

Tungsten Lighting (Indoor Lightbulb) No Flash



Diffused Sunlight No Flash





I was rushed & didn't pay attention to the Bottle I was purchasing. It looked like it wasn't closed all the way & some of the product wasted. UGH! Look @ the crusted over nail polish on the mouth of the bottle! I will inspect more carefully next time. This was the last FORGET ME NOW.



It truly is a BEAUTIFUL color! It looks like the cousin to MAC Love Alert Dazzleglass. I wore these together yesterday. LOVELY!





Check Out How Temptalia Organized Her Nail Polishes

e.l.f. Daily Brush Cleaner (Review) vs. essence of beauty Extra Gentle Brush Cleaner

e.l.f. Daily Brush Cleaner $3
8.5 fl. oz (250 ml)



An anti-bacterial daily brush cleanser for quick cleaning in-between makeup applications

Disinfects brushes to provide a fresh and clean application every time

Helps to keep your brushes lasting longer for extended use.

DIRECTIONS

After using your brush, spray several spritzes of cleaner over the brush bristles. Gently wipe the brush onto a clean cloth to remove makeup. Allow brush to fully air dry before next use. Repeat daily or as often as necessary. For best results, use with the e.l.f. Brush Shampoo once a week for a thorough cleansing.

INGREDIENTS

Aqua(Water), Alcohol Denat, Cocomidodopropyl Betaine, Methyparaben

PROS
- a lot of product for the price
- chic bottle can be reused with home made daily brush cleaner

CONS
- smells like peachy-citrus hairspray
- the berth of the spray is really wide. you waste a lot of product. you must spray more than once to really get the brushes clean
- no rinsing required (scary!)
- pkg leaked somewhat during shipping, despite elf's diligent effort to thwart that (shrink wrap)as well as wrapping separately from the other products in my shipment

3 out of 5 stars
not a fan of the hairspray smell, leaky pkg, wide berth of spray

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

essence of beauty Extra Gentle Brush Cleaner $5.99
4.2 Fl oz. (125 ml)



DIRECTIONS

Spray brush cleaner onto the brush. Gently wipe the brush onto a lint-free cotton cloth to remove residue. Rinse with tepid water until the water runs clear. Squeeze out excess water, reshape brush and lay flat to dry overnight.

INGREDIENTS

Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Polysorbate 20, Butylene Blycol, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Propylene Glycol, Diazolidinyl Urea, Methylparaben, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Disodium EDTA, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Magnesium Nitrate, Methyl Chloroisothiazolinone, Magnesium Chloride, Methylisothiazolinone.

>essence of beauty Extra Gentle Brush Cleaner Review

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

COMPARISON




neither company tests on animals

elf you get 2x the amount of product than the eob

elf terrible spray (wide berth) wastes product vs eob more control

elf more product needed to get the brushes clean vs eob less product needed

elf chic bottle to reuse for homemade prod vs eob plastic is so opaque, you don't know when you are running out of product

elf bottle leaked during shipping vs eob superior packaging no leaks

elf smelly hairspray smell vs eob pleasant lavender smell

elf no rinsing vs eob rinse after use

elf dries very quickly vs eob drying overnight

Overall, I would say that the essence of beauty extra gentle brush cleaner is a superior quality product.

e.l.f. Studio Shampoo REVIEW

An anti-bacterial brush cleanser for thorough cleaning in-between makeup applications.

Disinfects brushes to provide a fresh & clean application every time.

Washes away all traces of dirt, makeup, oil and debris from your brush while conditioning the hair to provide a clean and soft application for every use.

DIRECTIONS

Cleanse brush regularly by massaging a small amount of the shampoo with water and working it through the bristles from the base of the brush, outward. Rinse thoroughly and gently squeeze out excess water. Reshape the bristles and lay flat on a clean cloth to fully dry before next use.

INGREDIENTS
Aqua(water), Sodium Laurly Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Cocamide MEA, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Sodium Chloride, Methyparaben.

This shampoo comes in a 4.1oz container.
I was surprised it was so small.
It doesn't really have a smell.
It looks like a gel when it comes out of the dispenser.
I was also surprised that this stuff did not lather! What?
Despite that, it still got my brushes clean. I only had to wash them once.
I probably will NOT buy this product again, as the bottle is so small.
I will just create my own brush shampoo & reuse the container. I was able to purchase mine with a coupon, so I only paid $1.50 US. The regular price is $3.00 US. It was worth trying.

PROS
- concentrated product, really got brushes clean with just one wash
- brushes were very soft after having dried
- small bottle is almost ergonomically perfect for washing brushes.

CONS
- small bottle, just not environmentally responsible to continue re-purchasing.

4 out of 5 stars. Yes, I would recommend this.

e.l.f. Studio Kabuki Brushes REVIEW

Love these brushes!
They are the softest brushes I own!
I will NOT be purchasing the MAKE UP FOR EVER Face Kabuki ($39).
I can use the difference ($34) to SPLURGE on something else.

These brushes are a STEAL at just $5 each

Con: smelly, but hopefully after a good deep cleaning that will go away.

Boxes



Body Kabuki / Face Kabuki



Compared to the Coastal Scents Synthetic Wide Buffer Brush



Compared to the Coastal Scents Ltd. Edition Kabuki Brush



Kabukis Resting in Their New Home