The Year In Review

Thank you for taking the time to visit and support this blog! I appreciate your comments.

Here is a list of my HOLY GRAIL Products for 2012

















Favorite Makeup Brushes
I have more e.l.f. Studio brushes than any other brand.
I do have some MAC Special Edition brushes and a 217 from their permanent line.
I plan to invest in Sonia Kashuk in 2013.

Skin Care Products
I got a deluxe sample of MURAD Resurgence Sheer Luster Day Lotion with SPF 15 from Sephora.
This had to be the best moisturizer I used in 2012. I do plan to purchase the full size of this item!
I got so many compliments on my skin when I used this product! I LOVE IT!
I neglected my Clairisonic Mia in 2012. I did however continue to use my microfiber washcloths.
I did not use my African Black Soap as much as last year. My most reached for cleanser was Philosphy's Purity Made Simple. My favorite Makeup Removing Cloths were from Neutrogena.

Face Primer
Black Radiance Complexion Perfection Shine Control Primer - Affordable, Easily Accessible
Milk of Magnesia for my oily nose.

Eyeshadow Primer
NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Primer - Although this is expensive, it gives me all day staying power, makes colors pop and does not crease, despite my super oily lids!

Favorite Corrective Concealer
LORAC Cover Up C7. This was the solution to my dark undereye circles. It is a bit pricey but I DO plan to repurchase this!

Favorite Foundation
My favorite foundation for 2012 is Estee Lauder Double Wear Light. I wear the shade Intensity 3. Although I despise the packaging and it is rather pricey for the small amount of product,
it is the BEST match for my complexion. It has wonderful staying power. I cannot say enough good things about this product!

Favorite Eyeshadow
I wore more neutral eyeshadow looks during 2012. This was partially because I started a new job. Neutral eyeshadow is the quickest go to look for me. I also focused on building my staple neutral single eyeshadows from MAC this year. New editions to the family include FOLIE, BROWN SCRIPT, and SADDLE.
I tried to use my Wet N Wild Vanity Palette as sparingly as possible as I only have the one and it is no longer available for purchase. I added Urban Decay's NAKED 2 Palette and LORAC Pro Palette to my collection.

Favorite Eyeshadow Highlight
My most reached for eyeshadow highlights this year were Urban Decay's FOXY and L'Oreal HiP Loose Pigment in Restless.

Favorite Brow Products
I was disappointed that Maybelline decided to discontinue the Define A Brow Pencil in DARKEST BROWN. Two of my friends who live out of my state were able to snag several of these from Dollar Tree.
When we find a HOLY GRAIL product, we hate change. I hope that Maybelline reconsiders their decision.
I used MAC Studio Finish Concealers for my Brow Highlights.


Favorite Mascara
Maybelline the COLOSSAL. They had better not ever discontinue this formula.

Favorite Lipstick Finish -  Matte
I have been obsessed with matte lipsticks. My favorite brands have been
Revlon - Great pigmentation, matte, but not drying at all.
Wet N Wild Megalast - Markwins finally heard our complaints about the lack of name labelling on their lipsticks. The new Megalast Lipsticks have the name on the bottom.
Aside from Wet N Wild Megalast lipsticks, MAC got most of my money for 2012. Their having released so many limited edition lipsticks almost had me in the poor house.

Favorite Blush - NARS and La Femme top my list for the most pigmented and reached for blushes of 2012. Although I have enough blush PERIOD, I do want to purchase a couple of La Femme blushes in 2013.

Favorite Nail Products
I upgraded my organization from shoe boxes to acrylic wall organizers. This was a huge help as I can now see all of my colors at a glance instead of rifling through boxes and neglecting colors. Despite my having painted my nails less in 2012 than in 2011. I attribute the decreased manicures to not making the time to do them. Working at my job has cut in to my beauty time. I seemed to gravitate more towards Sinful Colors than any other brand this past year. I did step up my game and invest in a few China Glaze Wish List colors. My favorite finish is cream. My Favorite top coat is Seche Vite. My favorite Nail Polish Blog is
nailsbeautiqued. The Lovely Blog Author says that "Nail Polish is something every lady should have time for." During 2013 I plan to branch out into other brands such as American Apparel, essie and OPI.

Favorite Makeup Organizers.
Hands down, MUJI gets my vote for the #1 organizer of makeup products for 2012. I was OBSESSED with acquiring these acrylic drawers! I love them because I was able to customize my organization.
I have been eyeing the ediva Princess. Stay tuned for future updates.

Favorite Beauty Trend
Despite my desire to not give more of a spotlight than necessary to the Kardashian family, I will have to say that my favorite beauty trend of 2012 is the Kim Kardashian Highlight. It adds a youthful lift and light to the face.This is credited to her makeup artist, Mario Dedivanovic.

Favorite Hair
I would love to be able to say that my favorite hair for 2012 was MY OWN. *laughing*
However, I focused on the convenience of human hair wigs for protective styling until I am comfortable with the length of my natural hair. I was OBSESSED with short wigs during 2012. No hassle, no tangles, no glue, no tape are the reasons for this choice. My favorite wig for 2012 has to be Sensationnel FAB FRINGE.
I am on the fence about buying the same wig with highlights (Autumn). However I am dedicated to NOT purchasing more wigs for 2013. I do want to loc my hair. I have been toying with the idea of Sister Locks for about 2 years now. The cost is somewhat prohibitive. However I am still weighing my options.

Favorite Lip Gloss - Milani 3D Lipglass. This is the best dupe ever for MAC Dazzleglass.

Favorite Eyeliner - Revlon ColorStay is my liner pencil of choice. The black seems darker than
Urban Decay ZERO and is more affordable. It stays put! Wet N Wild H20 Liquid Liner was my most reached for liner as well.

Favorite Body Lotion - Korres Body Butters

Favorite Fashion Trends
Skinny Leg Pants. Prior to this year, I did not own very many pairs of pants. I love the look and feel of dresses and skirts. At my new job, I incorporated pants into my wardrobe. I found skinny legs to be my favorite cut.
Animal print will continue to be one of my favorite fashion trends.


Did you share some of my favorites for 2012?
If you are so inclined, please do share in the comments.

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?

NARS - FOREPLAY Blush Palette - REVIEW

Blackberry pic
Full Sunlight

I love NARS Blush! I simply had to purchase this Foreplay palette from my local Sephora.
It retails for $49. Essentially, it is a deconstructed ORGASM palette. ORGASM is their most popular shade of blush. I must say I was at first a bit reluctant to purchase it, as many brown girls have said that it just does not show up on their skin. The idea of a deconstructed palette works for me because I can add more pink or peach to make it pop for my deep skin tone.



Blackberry pic - Swatches

The largest color in the palette is ORGASM, a soft peachy pink with fine gold shimmer.
On my skin, the color is a bit washed out.
I added more peach to amp it up.

There are both a soft blue based pink as well as a peach blush in this palette. Both are matte.
The three blushes in this palette are not available for purchase singularly. However, I suspect that there are other blushes in the NARS line that closely resemble them.

The real appeal for me in this palette is the gold color. While NARS ALBATROSS is my all time favorite highlight, I wanted to try this warmer yellow gold.
Just as I suspected, it is as finely milled as is ALABATROSS.

Blackberry pic

This palette is limited edition. If you are a fan of NARS BLUSH or a beginner who would like to try it, I highly recommend it. I think it would be terrific for travel because of it's compact size.

Have you any plans on purchasing this item?

Earring Haul - LoveliiYou Button Earrings - REVIEW

Box 1: Candy Cane, Authentic African Wax Print, Blue Polka Dot
Box 2: Nautical Baby, Authentic African Wax Print*gifted pair
Box 3: Colored Chevron, BlackMusiq, RRRR

As promised, here is the more comprehensive post on my collective earring haul from LoveliiYou .









I purchased the
1 1/8 " size earrings for $6.99 a pair. These are the large size.
The Nautical Baby earrings are 1.5" and sell for $7.99.

The smallest pair underneath the Nautical Baby set were a gift to me from the owner, Angel.
Shipping prices are reasonable. Communication is excellent. I am excited about wearing my new earrings as I am sporting short hair these days. Which pair are your favorite?

Neutrogena Naturals - REVIEW

I was looking for an affordable alternative to my beloved Philosophy PURITY Made Simple.
Neutrogena Naturals looked like a great option.

The company promises
"Clean, smooth, beautiful skin with no harsh chemical sulfates, parabens, petrochemicals, dyes or phthalates"

The only products I did not purchase were the facial cleanser that is not creamy and the face and body bar.









PRICE
I found the products to be super affordable ranging in price from $7.49 to $13.99.
I was able to get some of them on a BOGO
(Buy 1 Get 1 Free or 1/2 Price) from Rite Aid.

AVAILABILITY
They are also not hard to find. I have seen them at Target, Walgreens, CVS, and Walmart.
You can also purchase these products directly from  neutrogena.com.




fresh cleansing makeup remover
$7.49/6 fl oz.
This face wash contains natural salicylic acid found in Willowbark bionutrients to penetrate deep into pores to detoxify and help remove dirt, oil and makeup, while rinsing clean without pore-clogging residue.

I found this product to be a bit stripping.
It definitely gets the skin clean, however, it can feel a little bit tight after use. It does sting the eyes, which is a drawback. A little bit goes a long way. This cleanser foams up. I love that!

multi-vitamin nourshing moisturizer
$13.99/3 fl oz.
Replenishes essential skin nutrients and provides continuous moisture nourishment throughout the day. Fortified with vitamins B, C, E and antioxidant omega bionutrients, this moisturizer is clinically proven to boost skin's defense against dullness and roughness. Leaves skin naturally radiant, healthier and younger looking.

This product feels thick at first, but absorbs easily into the skin. I hate the squeeze tube because you can easily expel too much product. Excess gunks up on the interior lid. I do love it for everyday use.

purifying pore scrub
$7.49/4  oz
Gently scrubs away impurities and dull, dead skin cells that can build up in pores to improve complexion for fresh, clear skin. Suitable for even acne prone skin. Gentle enough for daily use. Won't clog pores.

On days when I want to exfoliate, I use this alone without the fresh cleansing makeup remover.
It does sloph off dead skin. There are tiny jojoba beads in this product. My skin felt fresh and clean after use, without over scrubbing.

multi-vitamin nourishing night cream
$13.99/ 1.7 oz
Nourishes skin with vitamins B, C, E and anti-oxidant omega bionutrients. This moisturizing cream is clinically proven to boost skin's defense against dullness and roughness, leaving it naturally radiant, healthier and younger looking today and in the future.

I do not use this every single night. I found that if I used it more than three times a week, I suffered from breakouts.


OVERALL THOUGHTS
These products smell like candy. I was worried about the scent breaking me out. No problems. I would have rather if they didn't have a smell. I do like this line. It is a part of my everyday regimen.
A couple of the teenagers in my home have also started using these products with good results.
I will definitely purchase again.

What is missing from this line? An astringent. I use Dickinson's Witch Hazel, but I would have bought one from this line to try if it existed.

Have you tried any of these products?

Sephora WaterProof Eye MakeUp Remover - REVIEW

 I first tried a deluxe sample from Sephora.
 I so impressed by this affordable product, that I decided to purchase a larger size.
(1.69 oz $6) I was unaware that there is an even larger size available for purchase.
(4.2 oz $9.50)














PROS

• Formulated without parabens or fragrance.
• Removes even the most stubborn waterproof makeup.
• Affordable

CONS
None

Before use, you will need to shake this product because it separates.
It comes with a plastic stopper which allows just a little bit of liquid to come out of the container.

Initially I saturated a cotton pad with product and let it rest on my eyelids to remove a deep smokey look.
The product was removed with minimal effort. Almost daily I use Wet N Wild H20 Proof Liquid Liner for my top lids. I knew that if this product could remove that without irritation, I would probably be purchasing it again. For now, this is my Holy Grail Eye makeup Remover. I have since ditched the cotton pads and replaced them with cotton swabs. This will help me to get more use out of my product.

Have you tried this product? Do you use cotton pads or cotton swabs for removal of your eye makeup?

La Femme Blush On Rouge - REVIEW

Pan Size: 1.45 inch 36.83 mm
(This is the same size as a single Make Up For Ever single eyeshadow)

I received these three lovely blushes as a gift from a friend.
They are extremely pigmented and last all day.
I would recommend using a fan brush to apply the blush with a very light hand.
A little bit goes a long way.




Left to Right
 MAGENTA Hot Pink matte
PURPLE PASSION Purple satin with slight shimmer
BORDEAUX Wine with lots of shimmer



PROS

• Highly pigmented.
• Beyond affordable at $2.50 for a single pan without the casing. $3.00 in the pot.

CONS

• When purchasing, the wait time for these is more than a week. The orders are processed by hand. It is certainly worth it in my humble opinion for such a pigmented product.
• Many of the colors are often out of stock because of the popularity of this blush.

I plan to purchase more La Femme Blushes from http://www.makeupmania.com/

Do you love blush?
Do you own any of these beauties?
If not, what are you waiting for?

Babyliss Pro Thermal Ionic Rollabout Dryer REVIEW

"•1600 Watts of power
•Ionic technology conditions the hair
•Three temperature settings
•Adjustable height (48")
•Freestanding design
•Built-in airflow diffuser
•Removable inlet grill
•Easy to assemble
•1 Year warranty

The Babyliss Pro Thermal Ionic Rollabout Dryer is a portable, professional rollabout hair dryer with1600 watts of power and built-in airflow diffuser that lets you enjoy professional quality and salon-results. Features three temperature settings and adjustable bonnet with lift up visor for added convenience. Heavy duty spine locks adapter to secure bonnet to inner chrome stand and a durable base provides easy maneuverability and prevents tipping. Easy to clean. Rustproof chrome plated inner and outer stand."

I bought this after having seen YouTube's Lovely
Kokofemme do a review on it.
She wears locks and was looking to maintain them at home.
Although I do not wear locks, I thought it would be great for me.
I have been using this dryer since February 2010.
My hubby assembled this for me. However I could have easily done it myself.
I use it primarily for deep conditioning and rollersets.
I like it because of it's portability. I can sit on my sofa or at my desk because of the adjustable pole.
I would give this product 4 out of 5 stars.
I gave it 4 stars because it does not come with a timer and the little "U" cord clips can be lost if you are not careful.

For more info, please check
SallyBeauty

Tyche Black Flat Iron Spray Heat Protector - Product REVIEW

This product is made by Nicka K Cosmetics.

Product Description
Tyche Black Heat Protector Flat Iron Spray is formulated to protect hair from heat damage, providing healthy and silky hair.
It locks humidity out to reduce frizz while balancing moisture in the hair. Tyche Black Heat Protector also reconditions hair for luminous shine and better straightening result.

DIRECTIONS
Spray evenly and smooth the hair with flat iron. For extra healthy and silky hair, spray slightly after the heat styling.

INGREDIENTS
Methylisothiazolinone, Amodimethicone, Laureth-7, Isolaureth-6, Glycerin, Amodimethicoe, Trideceth-12, Cetrimonium Chloride, DMDMH, EDTA, AQUA

I was in a hurry and a little short on cash when I picked up this item from the beauty supply store.
It costs $2.99. You get what you pay for.
I stretch my relaxer and my daughters are transitioning. This was not a good fit for us.
I sprayed this product on clean blow dryed hair. I smoothed the hair with my fingers and then flat ironed.
This product seemed to make the hair revert. I did not dare to spray the hair an additional time as the directions suggested.
Not at all what I was looking for! If you have naturally curly hair or more than one texture, please don't waste your money.

While the hair seemed to be protected from the heat, the addition of water in this product really negated that benefit.

(Part 1) NK HD Eyeshadow Collection with Swatches and REVIEW

I have had my eye on these eyeshadows since November 2009.
I kept talking myself out of buying them. How many eyeshadows does a woman need? After all, I only have two eyes. I broke down and bought a couple, and I have been hooked ever since. I have been trying to collect these eyeshadows for a couple of weeks now.

These beauties range in price from $1 US to $2 US depending on where you purchase them. I was able to find them at my local ethnic beauty supply store.

So far, I only have 15. I do believe there are about 32 colors in total.
Some of the colors have been discontinued. Of course, this limited edition situation is what prompted me to buy them while I still can.

I have no doubts that some of these can be used as blush!

NK did not assign names to the colors, only numbers.

The texture of the shadows is very buttery. The intensity of the pigmentation is AMAZING! I suppose the secret to their soft texture is the addition of KAOLIN in the ingredient list. I would give these 4 out of 5 stars. Some colors are harder to work with than others. The matte shades are not as easily blended as the shimmers.
Overall, they are beautiful alone, but more stunning with the appropriate base.

Left to Right (Diffused Sunlight)
3008 (Matte/Satin)Beige
3017 Cream
3028 Gold
3027 Light Copper
3009 Bronze



No Base (Diffused Sunlight)



With Like Colored Base (With Flash)



Left to Right (Diffused Sunlight)
3004 Orange
3026 Yellow
3010 Mint Green
3006 Teal



No Base (Diffused Sunlight)



With Like Colored Base (With Flash)



Left to Right (Diffused Sunlight)
3019 Baby Blue
3020 Electric/Navy Blue
3012 Lavender
3031 Purple



No Base (Diffused Sunlight)



With Like Colored Base (With Flash)




Left to Right (Diffused Sunlight)
3039 Hot Pink (Matte/Satin)
3025 Magenta (Matte/Satin)



No Base (Diffused Sunlight)



With Like Colored Base (With Flash)



These are the Like Colored Bases I used.
Left To Right

MAC Paint Pot SOFT OCHRE (matte)
Wet N Wild Idol Eyes Cream Shadow Crayon 130 (pearl/cream)PIXIE
NK Lip Crayon AC39 GOLD
L'Oreal HiP Cream Color Crayon 812 ATTENTIVE
Wild Beauty 3 in 1 Makeup Pencil BRONZE
Wild Beauty 3 in 1 Makeup Pencil HOT PINK (but it's really like a CAUTION ORANGE)
NYX Eyeshadow Pencil YELLOW
Wet N Wild Idol Eyes Cream Shadow Crayon 132 (green)ENVY
Wet N Wild Idol Eyes Cream Shadow Crayon 131 (aqua)ELECTRO
Wild Beauty 3 in 1 Makeup Pencil BABY BLUE (matte)
Wet N Wild Idol Eyes Cream Shadow Crayon 134 (navy) DISTRESS
Beauty Treats 3 in 1 Makeup Pencil (no color listed, silverish lavender)
Wild Beauty 3 in 1 Makeup Pencil VIOLET
Wet N Wild Idol Eyes Cream Shadow Crayon 133 (purple)TECHNO
Wild Beauty 3 in 1 Makeup Pencil ROSEBUD

Just Bases (Diffused Sunlight)



With NK HD Eyeshadow (With Flash)



Have you seen these in your area?

Elasta QP GLAZE Conditioning Shining Gel - REVIEW

"Shines, defines, accentuates, moisturizes, silkens and controls any texture hair Contains Glycerine, a lightweight humectant used primarily in skin care products, to impart moisture, and Panthenol (Vitamin B5) to create shine Greaseless formula never adds weight and can be rinsed out easily with water

Vitamin-rich, GLAZE is an artistic tool that moisturizes, silkens defines and gives shine. Use daily to shape, control frizz and add shine to any hairstyle. Easy to shampoo out. Contains NO WAX, NO PETROLEUM, NO ALCOHOL.

To Use: Spread in palm. Apply to damp or dry hair.
For smoothing edges, apply directly to hair."

INGREDIENTS: Water, Isoceleth-20, Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil), Glycerin, Oleth-2, Propylene Glycol, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Cocos Nuclfera (Coconut) Oil, Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A), Tocopherol(Vitamin E), Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Biotin (Vitamin H) Linoleic Acid (Vitamin F), Persia Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Contails Vitamins B2, D, A E, K & Potassium), Panthenol, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Benzophenone-5, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Parfum (Fragrance)

This product can be used by everyone in my family.
- There are varying hair textures from 4c (tight kinky coiled), to 3b (Soft Wavy).
We are:
texlaxed (textured under-relaxed hair),
transitioning (half relaxed, half natural), relaxed, and natural.
- This product imparts sheen.
- It eliminates frizz.
I use it to smooth down edges for sleek looks, such as buns or ponytails.

My daughter's 4a hair is easily smoothed on the edges with this product.



Her APL (armpit lenght) hair is coiffed into a side swept donut bun.



I also use it to blend a small portion of hair from my hairline with wigs.
It does not matter whether the wig is a lacefront, straight, wavy or curly,
the transition is seamless with the use of this product.
The men in our home use this to set waves.
We love it!

I like the fact that it does not contain petroleum, wax or alcohol.
It does not leave our hair stiff or crunchy. It leaves the hair very soft.

I give this product 4 out of 5 stars.
I love all of the natural oils and vitamins, but really wish there was a way to retain all of the qualities of this product without the taboo ingredients such as the parabens and the mineral oil.

Best Product for Maintaining Braid Outs or Curly/Natural Hair REVIEW

When I first considered using this product, I cringed. I was reminded of times past when "Jheri Curl juice stained furniture." This product is drip free and does not look "greasy". Gone are the days of drip drip "Soul Glo".






•May be used daily
•Contains glycerine and vitamin B5 to help eliminate breakage
•Keeps your curls, waves and natural
•Hair is left soft, healthy and with a lasting sheen
•Does not leave a greasy build-up

S-Curl Activator and Moisturizer may be used daily to maintain and condition your curly hair style. It contains Glycerine and Vitamin B5, which together eliminate breakage and keep your curls, waves and natural hair soft and healthy. This special No Drip Formula allows you to use S-Curl Activator and Moisturizer without fear of ruining your clothes or pillow cases

Ingredients
Water , Glycerine , Cetearyl Alcohol , Propylene Glycol , Acetamide MEA , Ceteth-20 , Olealkonium Chloride , Stearalkonium Chloride , Panthenol , Simethicone , Imidazolidinyl Urea , Methylparaben , Propylparaben , Fragrance

My Thoughts
I see 4 products which are considered haram (taboo) for African textured hair.
Somehow, that just does not jive with the results I have experienced.
This stuff is amazing! I used it last night for my daughters' hair. As texlaxed, transitioning young ladies, they both have been sporting braid outs. This product helps hair retain moisture so it won't look dry. They both have soft sandy brown hair. Lighter hair seems to just lack sheen without some type of moisturizer. I love this product! I give it 5 out of 5 stars.

How I use it
- Every evening before bed. On my own relaxed hair, I use this product to moisturize my ends before sealing them with the oil of my choice.
- I spritz this product on my daughters' hair before braiding and sealing their ends with oil.

Essence of Beauty Kabuki Brush REVIEW

Photo Credit: CVS

"Essence of Beauty's plush cosmetic brushes are made of high quality, authentic hairs and fibers. Buy Essence of Beauty's luxurious cosmetic accessories for all the benefits of high-end department store brands at just the right price. Reusable cosmetic pouch."

DIRECTIONS
"The Kabuki brush can be used to apply powder, bronzer or blush. Just dip the brush into the product in a circular motion for optimal coverage and lightly tap to remove excess. Use a dusting motion to apply product where needed. This brush is great for use with mineral cosmetics. Recommendations: Follow with the 'Essence of Beauty' blush brush to add a rosy glow to your look. Instructions of usage inside.


My curiosity was piqued in this brush by many makeup YouTubers.
They compared it to the MAC 182 ($45). Many purchased this brush to carry in their purse or on overnight trips and vacations so as not to risk losing the more expensive MAC brush. Some claim to like this brush even better than the MAC comparable brush.

I was able to purchase mine on a bogo.
Generally it retails at CVS for $9.99.
It is worth every penny and MORE!

Unless I stumble upon a better brush by accident, the search is over!
This brush is as soft as my e.l.f. studio kabukis.
Click HERE (for e.l.f. kabuki review) It is however, more dense than they are.
The Coastal Scents Synthetic Wide Buffer is softer, but not as dense as this brush.

Comparative View



Overhead View



HOW I USE IT
This brush is excellent for applying powders. It is dense enough to pick up as much product as I desire without being over saturated. The extra large dome makes quick work of buffing. The pointed tip allows for easy access to the more recessed areas like near the sides of the nose.

This brush shed just a little out of the packaging.
Washing resulted in a little more shedding. There was not alot of bleeding.
It took a while to dry.

I am sure my other kabuki brushes will be jealous of my new love.

5 out of 5 stars!
I HIGHLY recommend adding this to your collection.

January Faves/Reviews (Hair Care Products)

Mas vale tarde que nunca! (better late than never)
When I went out during the month of January, I really didn't vary my makeup routine. I have not tried any new products. I haven't really been in a makeup mood. I've been focusing more on my hair.



NO PETROLEUM JELLY that can weigh down hair & clog follicles. This light, non-greasy formula enriched with NATURAL OILS and VITAMINS A, B, C & E will add moisture to your hair leaving it soft and manageable.

Directions:
Apply to fingertips and gently manage throughout hair and scalp. OLIVE OIL has long been used as a skin softener which you will notice on your fingertips & cuticles after each use. With regular use you should obtain the same results on your scalp.

Ingredients: water, isopropyl Myristate, soybean oil, olive oil, stearic acid, stearyl alcohol, glycerol sterate, vitamin E, matricaria extract(chamomile), Calendula extract, vitamin B, macadamia nut oil, vitamin A, coconut oil, rosemary extract, sage extract, vitamin C, great burdock extract, triethanolamine, methyl paraben, propyl paraben, imidazolidnyl urea, fragrance, FD&C yellow #5, FD&C blue #1.

As I have two different textures of hair, it can be a challenge to manage it. I used this product on my scalp daily. I would recommend it to anyone trying to manage naturally curly hair or to anyone transitioning from a relaxer. I probably would use this product if I had my hair in an updo, as opposed to down. I feel like it might weigh down my thin hair if placed on the ends. It has a strong smell which might take a little getting used to. It is inexpensive & you get quite a bit of product.

4 out of 5 stars.
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Mane 'n Tail Detangler makes hair easier to comb and style and increases shine. Helps eliminate tangles and knots and the appearance of dry split ends while adding additional conditioning and styling benefits

•The solution for hard-to-comb hair
•Provides a rich, luxurious shine
•Hair becomes easily manageable
•Restores lost moisture
•Prevents breakage
•Reduces split ends

The Original Mane 'n Tail products have long been a solution for troubled hair.
Now from the makers of Mane ‘n Tail comes Detangler.

An exclusive pH balanced Detangler formula that is easy to use and helps eliminate tangles and knots and the appearance of dry split ends while adding additional conditioning and styling benefits. Your hair becomes easily manageable with a rich and luxurious shine.

Mane 'n Tail Detangler, the solution for hard to comb hair

Directions
After showering, while hair is still damp, spray Mane 'n Tail Detangler liberally on hair. Work formula through, making sure it covers and reaches all of the hair. DO NOT RINSE OUT. Comb out hair with a large tooth comb or brush. Results are a super slip that allows hair to respond to styling effortlessly. Style as usual. If pump becomes clogged, run under warm water.

I LOVE this stuff! I'm 7 months post relaxer. I have more new growth than relaxed hair at this point. Mane 'n Tail Detangler makes detangling my hair a breeze. I have not encountered a better product. I use this on my tween daughters' hair as well.
All Pros & NO Cons with this product. It may leave the hair a little oily. My hair absorbs product & tends to be more dry in the winter months.

5 out of 5 stars!
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New
Regular Formula For Normal Hair
With Certified Organic Ingredients
Detangling Conditioning Shampoo Featuring Organic Sunflower and Coconut Oils to Gently Cleanse and Condition For Soft Silky Hair.

Keep Out of Reach of Children
Wet Hair. Apply Shampoo and Work Into Lather. Rinse Thoroughly. Repeat. Next, Condition With CreMe of Nature Conditioner.


OMG! This is my new HG (holy grail) shampoo. Although my hair is dry, I thought I'd give this normal formula a play. It left my hair feeling so soft & tangle free. I would definitely recommend this to a friend!

5 out of 5 stars!
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Airless Pump Review

I purchased a couple of these pumps from
for $4.00. Be sure to check out their SALE Items page.

My L'Oreal True Match Liquid Foundation did not come with a pump, so I was wasting product every time I used it. I simply peeled the label from the L'Oreal True Match bottle and was able to transfer it to the airless pump bottle.



This is an awesome investment. I bought the pump from MAC Cosmetics to go with my Select SPF Liquid Foundation, for $5.


Photo Credit: MAC Cosmetics

I purchased the incorrect foundation color from the CCO. (Find your local CCO HERE)
I gifted it to a friend in an airless pump bottle, so I could BACK 2 MAC the bottle. It makes more sense to just purchase the airless pump. It costs less and you can

BACK 2 MAC the empty jar.



The airless pump holds 30ml of fluid. This bottle will prevent product coming in contact with oxygen during use to preserve ingredients and maintain shelf life. It will also help to minimize waste as product is being pushed up to the pump via a disk. It took a bit of time before I figured out how to use the airless pump. Eventually I figured out that I just needed to shake the bottle before pumping. There were no instructions accompanying the bottles.
I phoned Auraline Beauty and their customer service representative was most helpful. She confirmed that no straw was needed to use the airless pump.


PROS:
Less expensive than MAC Pump
Free's up the bottle for BACK to MAC
Convenient Lid
Conserves Product
Airtight (Preserves Quality of Product No Oxidation in Bottle)

CONS: NONE

I LOVE this! I give it 5 out of 5 stars. Run & buy this, you won't be sorry.

Auraline Beauty requires a minimum purchase of $50. There is a flat rate of $3 shipping if you spend less than $150. Purchases of $150 and up get free shipping.
At this time, as far as I know, they only ship to the U.S. and Canada.

Try Ebay for the airless pump.

Here is a link recommended by MissMakeupOnABudget

Maybelline Wet Shine Diamonds Review

This discontinued product may be found at your local dollar store.
I found it works best over another product, like lipstick or lip pencil to make it last longer. A little bit goes a long way. It makes your lips look spectacular.
It does not last for very long, as the warmth of your body kind of spreads it out. If you don't mind reapplying, then this product is for you. It is not at all sticky.
Some colors are more sheer than others. Many of these have been identified as close MAC Dazzleglass dupes on some makeup message boards.





Spoiled in Rubies







Pink Carats







Jewels 'N Berries




PROS

- Inexpensive, if you lose it in a purse or pocket, it won't really matter
- Pretty
- Not sticky

CONS

- Hard to find
- Have to reapply very often
- Not sticky enough
* When worn alone, melts & only silver glitter is left.
* Glitter Migrates to rest of face

I give this product 4 out of 5 stars!