Clinique Sonic System and City Block Skincare Product Review*

Clinique Sonic System Purifying Cleansing Brush, City Block Purifying Charcoal Cleansing Gel, City Block Purifying Charcoal Clay Mask + Scrub

I have been a user of Clinique skincare for many years, and I have recommended the Moisture Surge Extended Relief to many of my readers/friends who have sensitive skin. It is a very lightweight gel like formula that offers hydration and is oil-free. Another product that I've loved but never committed to buying a full size bottle because of the price ($74cad for 1oz/30ml), is the Clinique Smart Custom-Repair Serum. I keep going back for samples, and when Sephora has these deluxe samples during the 100 point redemption, I always get 2-3. This serum is smart enough to customize to your own specific skin type and addresses the concerns you have. It helps to diminish lines/wrinkles, firms the skin, evens the skin tone and reduces dark spots while improving the overall look and feel/texture of your skin. I had recommended this to a girlfriend, and she loved it so much she bought it. I have also tried a few Clinique makeup products like the Cheek Pops, Chubby Sticks (but I am going to focus this post specifically on skincare). 

This summer  (July 2016) to be specific, Clinique is releasing the NEW City Block Purifying Charcoal franchise that will be available exclusively at Shoppers Drug Mart Boutiques across Canada. I was lucky enough to be sent the items from the collection to try and I will be giving you a detailed review below. 

Pollution, traffic exhaust, smoke, and other environmental toxins can put stress on your skin and cause clogged pores - as a result, it can lead to your skin showing early signs of damage and aging. 
Clinique Sonic System Purifying Cleansing Brush, City Block Purifying Charcoal Cleansing Gel, City Block Purifying Charcoal Clay Mask + Scrub

The City Block Purifying Charcoal Clay Mask + Scrub is a five minute treatment that safely detoxifies your skin, ridding your face from the day's wear and tear. This charcoal clay mask and scrub works quickly to remove toxins and dirt while also removing excess oil and reducing the appearance of large pores minimized over time.

Some of the ingredients that helps with the detox are:
Natural Bamboo Charcoal: This natural ingredient attracts pollutants and other impurities out of your skin like a magnet, trapping them so they can be easily rinsed off the face.
Kaolin: This natural clay absorbs excess sebum, helping to make skin appear smooth and matte. 
Laminaria Saccharina Extract: This brown algae extract helps minimize excess sebum production, resulting in less surface oil over time. 

Some of the ingredients that helps with the exfoliating are:
Silica Beads: Natural, environmentally safe beads that provide exfoliation.
Gentiana Lutea (Gentian) Root Extract: An extract native to the mountains of central and southern Europe that protects skin, especially lipids from oxidative damage while also providing anti-inflammatory benefits.
Acetyl Glucosamine: An amino sugar that promotes and regulates cell turnover.

How To Use:
Apply the mask generously on your freshly cleansed and dried face (avoid the eye area). Leave on your face for 5 minutes, or until the mask turns light blue. Massage all over with your fingers, gently with warm water to activate its exfoliating properties and rinse off and towel dry. Follow up with the rest of your skincare routine. For best results, use 1-2 times a week.

NEW City Block Purifying Charcoal Clay Mask + Scrub is available exclusively at Shoppers Drug Mart Beauty Boutique locations nationwide and at www.clinique.ca beginning July 2016 for a suggested retail price of $34.00 Allergy Tested. 100% Fragrance Free.
Clinique Sonic System Purifying Cleansing Brush, City Block Purifying Charcoal Cleansing Gel, City Block Purifying Charcoal Clay Mask + Scrub
The 
City Block Purifying Charcoal Cleansing Gel is a black gel cleanser that contains Natural Bamboo Charcoal (benefits are same as the mask above). It provides a soothing and refreshing feeling on the face, leaving the skin moisturized and soft. It contains:

·    - Glycerin: A humectant ingredient that draws moisture from the environment and binds it to skin’s surface, and helps to provide a non-drying cleansing experience for skin.
     Caffeine: An anti-irritant that helps keep skin calm and soothed while cleansing.

How To Use:
Lather with water and massage over the face, avoiding the eye area, then rinse with warm water. It can be used with the Clinique Sonic System City Block Purifying Cleansing Brush with Charcoal infused bristles (or their regular ones), or can be used alone.  Use twice daily.

NEW City Block Purifying Charcoal Cleansing Gel is available exclusively at Shoppers Drug Mart Beauty Boutique locations nationwide and at www.clinique.ca beginning July 2016 for a suggested retail price of $27.00.
Allergy Tested. 100% Fragrance Free.
Clinique Sonic System Purifying Cleansing Brush, City Block Purifying Charcoal Cleansing Gel, City Block Purifying Charcoal Clay Mask + Scrub
Thoughts on:
City Block Purifying Charcoal Clay Mask + Scrub - silly me, read instructions! The first time I used this, I thought it was just a scrub so I didn't allow for the product to dry. While it was great then, I didn't see what was good about it. HOWEVER, when I actually READ the instructions and used as instructed I loved it! I had been using a charcoal mask from another brand for a while, and while that was good - I like how this one actually has exfoliating properties as well - multitasking at its best. Around the nose area, I saw the oil extracted from my black heads and when I went to massage the product in afterwards, it gave me the deep cleaning I liked. I will be repurchasing this product. 

City Block Purifying Charcoal Cleansing Gel - this product was good, it was gentle and cleansed effectively. My skin didn't feel stripped or dried out - however the price tag is a bit steep so I would most likely try out other products first.

Clinique Sonic System Purifying Cleansing Brush, City Block Purifying Charcoal Cleansing Gel, City Block Purifying Charcoal Clay Mask + Scrub

Lastly, while there is a Sonic System City Block Purifying Cleansing Brush, I was sent the Clinique Sonic System Purifying Cleansing Brush to try out. This is the original brush that is currently in stores, if I am correct I think that the City Block one has a different brush head (a Natural Bamboo Charcoal infused one). This electronic cleansing brush is waterproof and is dermatologist-developed and swiss-engineered. The brush head has two different brush textures - the green part is stiffer and the white part is softer. This allows for customization for you to personalize how you want to cleanse your face. For e.g. I use the stiffer area for my black heads and the softer bristles for areas near my undereye and cheeks. This cleansing device allows for deeper cleansing, gently lifting clogged pores which washing with your hands can't do. I highly encourage you to buy this product as it is cheaper than the competing electronic cleansing brushes in the market yet it does the job equally well. It is a good product to invest in, especially if you are prone to breakouts as it can thoroughly clean out your clogged and trapped pores. 

Clinique Sonic System Purifying Cleansing Brush Clinique Sonic System Purifying Cleansing Brush

I am honestly so happy to have received this products and will continue to be a fan of Clinique - both in skincare and in cosmetics :) What have been some of your favorite Clinique products or what are you looking to try out? 

Until next time, XO - M.



Tutorial: Graphic Blue Liner paired with matching bold or neutral lip


I had put a brief hold on my Make Up Monday series as I have been so busy with a few things that are going on in my personal life. I am trying to slowly bring it back, however it will be a bit on and off - so please bare with me!

Products Used:
- Maybelline Concealer - Medium
- Bobbi Brown Corrector - Light Peach
- Esquido Lashes
- Too Faced - White Sketch Marker liner*
- Arbonne - Eye Primer*
- MUFE - Aqua XL Liner in M-22*
- Charlotte Tilbury - Bronze and Glow Palette
- MAC Vamplify Glosses in She Rebel and Anything but Demure*
- The Estee Edit - Beam Team Hydrate and Glow (gorgeous hilighter, dewy look)*
- Smashbox - Photo Finish Pore Minimizing Primer
- Charlotte Tilbury - Airbrush Flawless Finish Micro-Powder in Medim
- Hourglass Cosmetics - Luminous Flush
- Anastasia Beverly Hills - Dip Brow Pomade - Chocolate

- Maybelline Concealer - Medium - Bobbi Brown Corrector - Light Peach - Esquido Lashes - Too Faced - White Sketch Marker liner* - Arbonne - Eye Primer* - MUFE - Aqua XL Liner in M-22* - Charlotte Tilbury - Bronze and Glow Palette - MAC Vamplify Glosses in She Rebel and Anything but Demure* - The Estee Edit - Beam Team Hydrate and Glow (gorgeous hilighter, dewy look)* - Smashbox - Photo Finish Pore Minimizing Primer - Charlotte Tilbury - Airbrush Flawless Finish Micro-Powder in Medim - Hourglass Cosmetics - Luminous Flush - Anastasia Beverly Hills - Dip Brow Pomade - Chocolate

To create the look below, I also decided to stick to all Make Up For Ever shadows - I used M-534 all over the lid, M-546 on the crease and M-608 on the outer V. I decided to keep my eye neutral and subdued as I wanted the focus of the look to be on the Aqua XL Liner. The blue one I used in this look is M-22 - it is a gorgeous royal blue that honestly doesn't budge. Once it's set, its set. I have really oily eyelids and these liners do not smudge at all, even when applied on my waterline. 

- Maybelline Concealer - Medium - Bobbi Brown Corrector - Light Peach - Esquido Lashes - Too Faced - White Sketch Marker liner* - Arbonne - Eye Primer* - MUFE - Aqua XL Liner in M-22* - Charlotte Tilbury - Bronze and Glow Palette - MAC Vamplify Glosses in She Rebel and Anything but Demure* - The Estee Edit - Beam Team Hydrate and Glow (gorgeous hilighter, dewy look)* - Smashbox - Photo Finish Pore Minimizing Primer - Charlotte Tilbury - Airbrush Flawless Finish Micro-Powder in Medim - Hourglass Cosmetics - Luminous Flush - Anastasia Beverly Hills - Dip Brow Pomade - Chocolate

To challenge myself, I decided to pair this look with a matching lipstick - MAC Vamplify in She Rebel. Those who know me, will know that I am never one to venture out and wear something like this. This formula is nice, it's glossy without being glue-like and tacky and it does't feel heavy on the lips. However, because of the specific color it is quite hard to have equal delivery of it. I had to apply about 3 coats to make sure I had perfect application, the three layers had also then led to some sliding of the product on my lips which was problematic. I did not find this to be an issue with the light color though - like the one below - Anything but Demure. That one only required one coat.

- Maybelline Concealer - Medium - Bobbi Brown Corrector - Light Peach - Esquido Lashes - Too Faced - White Sketch Marker liner* - Arbonne - Eye Primer* - MUFE - Aqua XL Liner in M-22* - Charlotte Tilbury - Bronze and Glow Palette - MAC Vamplify Glosses in She Rebel and Anything but Demure* - The Estee Edit - Beam Team Hydrate and Glow (gorgeous hilighter, dewy look)* - Smashbox - Photo Finish Pore Minimizing Primer - Charlotte Tilbury - Airbrush Flawless Finish Micro-Powder in Medim - Hourglass Cosmetics - Luminous Flush - Anastasia Beverly Hills - Dip Brow Pomade - Chocolate
For those who are more neutral, and want to have the look be more everyday wearable, you can just pair the bold liner with a nude lip. This is something I have been doing most days. 

I really and truly think that this is a winning product, and yes it is pricey at $25 a liner, but honestly guys if you have been struggling at finding a waterproof, budge-proof liner, I really suggest you give this one a go. When you first apply it, you have a few seconds of play time and then after it just sets completely. As I have previously mentioned, I have pretty oily eyelids, and this lasted through 30 degree weathers here in Toronto no problem. 

Until next time, XO - M.


Vichy Eau Thermale, Aqualia Thermal and Spa Shower Gel-Cream and Liftactive Serum 10 Supreme Review*

Vichy Eau Thermale, Aqualia Thermal and Spa Shower Gel-Cream Review*

I was given the opportunity to try out a few Vichy face and body products a few weeks ago and here I am reporting back on my thoughts of the products and what I would repurchase again. While Vichy is available for purchase at drugstores, they are priced at the higher end of the scale.

Vichy Eau Thermale, Aqualia Thermal and Spa Shower Gel-Cream Review*

First off, we have the Vichy Spa Shower Gel-Cream Body Wash, priced at $16.95. It contains 15 mineral active ingredients and natural oils to transform your skin, leaving it hydrated and soft. It contains Shea Butter, White Clay, Vichy Mineralizing Thermal Water and 10 fundamental oils.

It is tested on sensitive skin under dermatological control, is hypoallergenic and contains no parabens.

Thoughts:
I found this product to really hydrate my skin and did not irritate or cause my eczema prone skin on my hands to flare up. This scent of this product is a light floral one, non-offensive and it works up a light lather. This product is quite pricey, at $16.95 so it would definitely be a splurge product. I would love to repurchase this product, however the price point is a bit high. I would have to wait for a sale or use a point redemption to exchange for this product. If you have dry, sensitive skin or you have eczema - you could try this product out for sure.


Vichy Eau Thermale, Aqualia Thermal and Spa Shower Gel-Cream Review*

Next, we have the Vichy Eau Thermale (Mineralizing Thermal Water) - $7.50 and Aqualia Thermal Extrasensitive - $39.50

The Thermal Water comes in an aerosol can that distributes the soothing water in a very light mist form. It is said to improve the quality of skin and strengthen the natural defenses against external factors and premature aging. It contains 15 active minerals to do all of the above.This water travels thousands of years through volcanic rocks to create a unique skincare that instantly refreshes the skin and provides intense comfort. It can reduce redness, burning sensations and strengthens the skin's natural anti-oxidant protection. It is 100% pure and natural, tested on sensitive skin under dermatological control, is hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and preservative-free.

Thoughts:
I really enjoyed using this in the warm summer months, especially when I've been in the sun too long I spray a light mist on my face and it instantly cools my skin on contact. I do not use it everyday, but I would definitely repurchase this for the summer months when I'm outside.

The Aqualia Thermal Extrasensitive is highly concentrated in Vitamin B3 and its renowned soothing ingredient, the Vichy Thermal Spa Water (all benefits from this can be seen above). This product is suitable for allergy prone skin caused by external aggressions. This product comes in a pump bottle, which I love as it helps to dispense only as much product as you need without contaminating the rest of it. It is tested on extra sensitive skin under dermatological control, is hypoallergenic and contains zero preservatives, parabens, alcohol and is free from any colorings.

Thoughts:
LOVE this product - for some reason, when using this product I did not experience any random pimple flare-ups. In addition, it soothed my skin - I was a bit sun burnt, and I did not experience any peeling of the skin either. This is a very light weight moisturizer and absorbs quickly too. I would like to repurchase this in the future, however for now I am open to trying out new products as I feel like as a beauty blogger I love to always try any new products that are launched.


Vichy Eau Thermale, Aqualia Thermal and Spa Shower Gel-Cream and Liftactive Serum 10 Review*Lastly, I received this Vichy Liftactive Serum 10 Supreme - $57, a while back but never had the chance to review it. I thought that it would be fitting to add my quick review right now.

This is suitable for all skin types and addresses loss of firmness or wrinkles. Yes, while I do not have any wrinkles yet, I do believe in taking care of my skin before it comes. This serum contains 10% natural Rhamnose now boosted with Fragmented Hyaluronic Acid - it allows for 2x more rhamnose into the skin than before, which means you see the results faster. This product is also said to correct 10 signs of aging in 10 days.

Thoughts:
While I cannot confirm the claims of correcting 10 signs of aging, it is important to note that when applied, my skin is dewy, youthful and plump. I am so in love with this serum! It absorbs quickly and allows for my makeup application to be smoother and easier. There is one thing I have to comment though, and that is the packaging. I really wish that it came in a pump bottle as the push/pump serum dispensing drop gets messy, plus it does not allow for alot of product to be dispensed. Each time, I only get one drop and I have to try again to get another drop as one is not enough. As well when I put the dropper back in the bottle, because it is quite thick, it can easily cause the product to slide out on the sides if you're not careful.

Have you tried any Vichy products? If yes, which ones are your favorite? I'd love to hear your thoughts!

Until next time, XO - M. 

Riversol Skincare Review*

Riversol skincare review, skincare review, moisturizer, canadian beauty blogger, beauty blog, skincare, face cream, canadian skincare, natural skincare

Around 2-3 months ago I was contacted to try out a few products from a Canadian Skincare Brand called Riversol, created by Dr. Jason Rivers a board-certified dermatologist in both Canada and the US. A little background, as posted on their site -:

"After over 30 years of experience in clinical dermatology, Dr. Rivers was increasingly apprehensive about recommending existing products to patients with sensitive skin. A majority of sensitive skin care products on the market contained ingredients and fillers that can cause unwanted reactions in those with sensitive skin. Most of those products were filled with dyes, fragrances, sulfates, or formaldehyde. Dr Rivers used his experience as a clinical professor and a program director of dermatology at the University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine to begin formulating ideas on how he could better serve his patients. The demand for more efficient skin care from people with sensitive skin was evidenced by the growth of his cosmetic dermatology practice. As the Vancouver-based practice grew into the largest of its kind in Canada, the need for a better option for sensitive skin care was validated. Today, Dr. Rivers has published more than 135 articles and book chapters and is often invited as a key speaker to present on both medical and cosmetic dermatology topics at international symposia."

Being a beauty blogger, I have the wonderful opportunity of being able to test new beauty and skincare products on quite a frequent basis from various different companies. What brought me to want to try the products from Riversol, was the fact that it was developed for sensitive skin and also that it was Canadian - yay!

Please continue reading if you would like to read more about my thoughts on this skincare line. 

CND Creative Play Nail Lacquer Review and Swatches*

CND Creative play, isle never let you go, i blanked out, bridechilla, iris you would, polish my act, bronzestellation, i like to mauve it, hottie tomattie. nail polish, nail polish swatch, canadian blogger,

CND Creative play, isle never let you go, i blanked out, bridechilla, iris you would, polish my act, bronzestellation, i like to mauve it, hottie tomattie. nail polish, nail polish swatch, canadian blogger,


For my regular subscribers and readers, I think you are all aware that CND Vinylux is my favorite nail polish - from it's formula to it's brush/wand. CND most recently launched their Creative Play collection which is their version of the regular nail polish as the Vinylux formula is a weeklong formula that guarantees a week's worth of wear without chips.

I was recently sent 8 colors to try and I have provided pictures below of some swatches. Some colors worked better as a top coat as I have applied 3 coats for two of the colors, and still I could not obtain the opacity that I wanted. However, all the other colors I have tried on applied effortlessly and gave me a good quality payoff just with one coat. I put on two coats still just in case to make sure it is smooth and even. 



CND Creative play, isle never let you go, i blanked out, bridechilla, iris you would, polish my act, bronzestellation, i like to mauve it, hottie tomattie. nail polish, nail polish swatch, canadian blogger, CND Creative play, isle never let you go, i blanked out, bridechilla, iris you would, polish my act, bronzestellation, i like to mauve it, hottie tomattie. nail polish, nail polish swatch, canadian blogger,

Top Row: Left to Right - Isle Never Let You Go, I Blanked Out, Polish My Act and Bronzestellation.
Bottom Row: Left to Right - Bridechilla, Iris You Would, I Like to Mauve It and Hottie Tomattie.

As you can see, Isle Never Let You Go and Bridechilla are really sheer, even with three coats of polish in that picture. 

Hottie Tomattie and Iris You Would has got to be my two favorite colors - Hottie Tomattie and Polish My Act actually only required one coat to achieve the result you see in the picture. These polishes lasted about 4-5 days before I started to experience any chipping. I also used the top coat provided by Creative Play. 

Online, I see that Creative Play (13.6ml) retails for about $8.50 and the Vinylux (15ml) is about $11.95 - though there appears to be a price difference and the Vinylux is $3 more, it also contains a bit more in volume PLUS it is a weeklong wear formula. So far, I cannot decide which formula I love more as they are both quite similar! Either way, I suggest that you try out either one ASAP!

Until next time, XO - M. 

OGX hair products and review*

toronto blogger, beauty blogger, bbloggersca, bbloggers, ogx hair care, hair care review

I have always been a fan of OGX hair products and I have tried a few products from their range, including but not limited to: B5 Shampoo and Conditioner (love!), Biotin & Collagen Shampoo & Conditioner (neutral), Argan oil of Morocco Shampoo & Conditioner (not a fan, weighed down my thin hair), Renewing Argan oil of Morocco Penetrating Oil (love!, it's weightless and dries quickly while hydrating you), Weightless hydration coconut water shampoo & conditioner (love it! Hydrates and doesn't weigh my hair down). When I was allowed the opportunity to try out a few other products from their brand, I really couldn't refuse. I had told them that my focus is on volume or hair loss prevention. I had also said that I wanted to try some products that provided hydration without making my hair feel weighed down or greasy. Thus brings the products shown above - please continue reading if you would like to hear my thoughts on them. 

Review & Tutorial: Too Faced - Totally Cute Palette, Lip Swatches and Sketch Marker*

too faced sketch marker, too faced brow quickie, too faced totally cute palette

 As some of you may know, I have had the amazing opportunity to collaborate with Too Faced Cosmetics - you can read my last post here ,which features the Too Faced Palette and a look I created with it. I usually gravitate towards the neutral eye-look, so when I received this Totally Cute Palette, I knew I had to try and break out of my comfort zone and create a look inspired by the palette. Well, I created a look inspired by the stickers of the palette ;) and you shall see below what I mean. 

The palette comes with a plain pink lid and some stickers which allows you to customize and design your own cover. If you order it from the Too Faced website, you get an extra sheet of stickers (3 sheets total) that features limited edition stickers that are extremely cute. If you order it from Sephora, you get the two sheets that are featured above (and in this blog post).  

Below are pictures of the palette, as well as some swatches:
too faced totally cute palette swatches and review

My masterpiece: 
too faced totally cute palette design, stickers, is butter a carb?

too faced, too faced totally cute eyeshadow swatch, review,
As you can see, all the colors are ultra pigmented. Storm Cloud is a duo chrome which is a brown, blue mix. The matte shades are ultra buttery and packs a punch in terms of color - see Double Scoop, Bunny Fu-Fu and Chocolate Donut. 

I have decided to create two looks this time - one neutral, for what I'm usually comfortable with, and one inspired by all the cute food stickers that came with the palette. I call this look Neopolitan Ice Cream - haha! 

too faced totally cute palette lotd, motd, too faced melted matte lipstick in drop dead red and miso pretty
Eyes
Shooting Star all over the lid,  Bunny Fu-Fu on the crease and Chocolate Donut on the outer V.

Lips
Mix of Too Faced Melted Matte - Drop Dead Red and Miso Pretty

Rest of the face: All products are featured below in the picture

too faced totally cute eye makeup look, lotd, motd,
Eyes
Double Scoop on the inner portion of the lid,  I(heart)TF on the middle of the lid and Chocolate Donut and Meow! on the outer third. Brow Hilight is Shooting Star.

Lips
Too Faced Lip Injection Glossy - Milkshake

Rest of the face: All products are featured below in the picture

katvond mother, smashbox photo finish pore primer, bioderma lip balm, better tan sex waterproof mascara, too faced brow quickie in brunette, smashbox halo hilighter,

In my PR package, I was also sent some lip products to try out - and I decided to include some pictures of the lip products below with some swatches:


As you can see, the applicators for the Gloss and the Melted Matte is different. The Lip Injection is more of a two-sided flat applicator and the Melted Matte is a pointed doe-foot applicator that allows for more precision. 
too faced melted matte glossy review

Attached below are swatches of the product as well as my review: 
90210hhh, berry naughty, milkshake, babe alert, miso pretty, feelin' myself, drpo dead red

Too Faced La Creme Color Drenched Lip Cream in 90210hhh and Berry Naughty. This formula is ultra buttery and almost has a glossy cream finish to your lips. The finish allows your lip to look a bit more fuller and the pigmentation on the lipstick is to die for (check swatch below) . I do not find any feathering or bleeding of this lipstick as well, even though the formula seems to have a slip to it. After it fades, there's a subtle tint to your lip as well. 

Too Faced Lip Injection Glossy in Milkshake & Babe Alert. While yes this does make my lips look plump - I have to say that I couldn't handle the tingling sensation for too long. As you can see below, left is my normal lip - and right is when I applied the gloss. My trick now in using this is when I am applying my makeup, I like to apply the gloss and let it work its magic for a few minutes. Afterwards, I wipe the gloss off when it's plumped my lips and done its job, and then I just apply my lipstick/gloss/stain/paint of choice and it's been working great. 

too faced lip injection glossy in milkshake and babe alert, swatches

Finally, the Too Faced Melted Matte Liquefied Lipsticks in Miso Pretty, Feelin' Myself and Drop Dead Red. While I tried so hard to get Miso Pretty to work on me, I simply just looked ghastly and pale so I decided to save my readers the visual. I will pass this on to someone who is paler and will have use for it. However, Feelin' Myself is a beautiful coral for summer and helps to bring out my tan, as well Drop Dead Red is the first time I've really ventured into something so vampy - a deep berry red. I enjoyed this formula, it wasn't drying and had good staying power. It didn't patch off in chunks or flakes and it really worked well and the colors I got were not patchy and applied smoothly.

Lastly are the new Sketch Markers - I received Black, Smokey Emerald and Pure White. Can we also take a moment to recognize yet another cute packaging concept from Too Faced? They actually look like pens! and the writing on each colored liquid liner is different too!
black, smokey emerald, pure white

It is very interesting to note that the formulas for the colors are quite different - for example, for Smokey Emerald and Pure White, it is a dryer formula while still being pigmented. Black is more liquidy and wet and ended up, as you can see in the picture below, bleeding. It was also evident when I was wearing it through the day that it smudged onto my lower lash line. As such, I am not quite a fan of the black liner formula. 

However, the Pure White and the Smokey Emerald worked amazingly, didn't smudge and lasted all day. What is good is that the thicker line was created by me pressing on the tip harder, and the thinner line was at a light  
smokey emerald, black and pure white

Have any of you tried out anything from the new Too Faced launches? If not, what are you most excited to try? I'd love to hear from you!

Until next time, XO - M. 

June 2016 Favorites and Reviews

my makeup brush set vs artis brush, kat von d liquid lipstick - mother, smashbox halo hilighting wand, too faced totally cute palette, smashbox photofinish primer, bioderma lip balm, too faced melted matte feelin myself, stila liquid lipstick, wet n wild photofocus setting spray, too faced brow quickie brunette, too faced better than sex waterproof mascara. june favorites, june 2016 favorites, beauty blog, beauty blogger, canadian blog

These few months have been flying by so quickly and I would like to think and say that the business is over, but the craziness in my schedule is just beginning! I don't think that I'll actually have a chance to relax until the first or second week of July. With that said, I will try my hardest to get up a July favorites post for you next month, but if I don't, I'd like to apologize in advance. I am also trying to pre-post as much as I can this Canada long weekend so that I don't leave my readers hanging. 

Alright, so for the month of June, I actually tried out a lot of new products which I ended up loving and have been using almost everyday. These include:

1. My Makeup Brush Set - The largest round paddle brush*
I was contacted by the brand to try out a set of these make-up brushes that, yes look like hair brushes or ginormous toothbrushes. These are the cheaper alternative to the super luxurious Artis Brushes. I have a very thorough review coming soon, but for now my favorite brush has to be the largest paddle one. It gives me flawless and quick, even foundation application. It has also allowed me to use less product. 

2. Kat Von D liquid lipstick - Mother
I have been wanting to pick up this color for the longest time. My first KVD liquid lipstick was lovesick and I loved the formula. Mother is a brighter shade of dusty pink that is beautiful for everyday wear, especially in the summer. It doesn't dry weird on the lips and stays for a good few hours.

3. Smashbox - Photo Finish Pore Minimizing Primer*
This primer has made it to countless favorites post, so it should not be a surprise. It fills my enlarged pores and leaves a smooth canvas for my foundation application. In addition, it does not have a silicone finish that leaves a slippery greasy finish. This dries to a powder like satin finish.

4. Bioderma - Lip Balm*
I have yet to find a balm that I enjoy as much as this. This smells great, has a light raspberry scent and is hydrating and effectively repairs my dry lips. I recommend this to everyone who asks.

5. Stila - Liquid Eye Liner
I used this many years ago, and don't know why I stopped as I actually think I like this better than the KVD Liquid Liner in Trooper. Everytime I get a compliment on my liner + wing, it has always been this Stila liner. This actually dispenses my product and has a longer shelf life before it dries out. 

6. Wet n Wild - Photofocus Makeup Setting Spray
Finding a setting spray that works at the drugstore is amazing. I like this alot better than then Hard Candy setting spray, and just as much as what I find at Sephora. So, I'll most likely be repurchasing this from now on. However, I still really want to try the MUFE setting spray, so I'll give that a go too.

7. Too Faced Melted Matte - Feelin' Myself*
I have a swatch post coming really soon of all the swatches, but this is a bright matte coral liquid lipstick that makes me look like a tanned goddess. HAHAHA joke, but seriously, it makes me look so tanned! I love it, and who doesn't love a good coral in the summer? 

8. Too Faced - Better than Sex Waterproof mascara*
The original Better than Sex mascara unfortunately transferred to my bottom lash line and eye area, makeing me look like a messy panda. This one did not transfer, and was not hard to remove, I used the Bioderma Micellar water and it was great. This mascara gave me lots of volume.

9. Too Faced - Brow Quickie - Brunette*
The perfect shade of brown and the small applicator allowed it to be precisely applied on my brows. It kept the brows in place while tinting it a bit and giving it volume. It did not dry clumpy or crunchy, nor did it look fake. 

10. Smashbox -Halo Hilighting Wand*
I like to apply this to my cheekbones to give myself a beautiful glow when the sun or light hits and my face turns a specific angle. I do not want to look like Edward Cullen. This just gave a dewiness.

11. Too Faced - Totally Cute Eyeshadow palette*
Again, a more comprehensive review will be coming soon, however the fact that I could customize my own palette design with these adorable stickers was a win. The formula inside of the shadows were buttery and pigmented as well, and offered shadows that gives you a pop of color for the warmer months. 


12. SOL Janeiro - Samba Foot Fetish Cream
I bought this product after I tried the Brazilian Bum Bum Cream and fell in love with the brand and product. The Foot Fetish Cream came with a foot file for you to exfoliate your feet and the cream itself is light weight and quick absorbing. It isn't slippery either, so you could technically apply this and be on the go. However, I typically like to apply it before bed and just let it soak it and work its magic. It has made my ankles and feet sandal ready and I really think you should pick one up! P.S. The foot file is actually really good as well!

13. SOL Janeiro - Brazilian Bum Bum Cream
This smells like a concoction of french vanilla, creme brulee and coconuts. It is absolutely incredible. At first, I thought that it would be too pungent and overwhelming (as I had applied it to my hands at the store), but honestly, it isn't. When you rub it on your bum, stomach and body it leaves a very subtle sweetness behind and it just honestly makes me go OOOOOoooo everytime. It absorbs quickly, leaves your skin ultra luxurious feeling - it is almost like a whipped butter texture.

14. Vichy - Spa Shower Gel-Cream*
I was sent this earlier this month, and in the picture you can see that I am already half done. It doesn't aggravate my eczema, has a light refreshing scent and is a cream-like gel texture. I also use this for when I shave my legs in the shower and it works well to protect my skin. I will definitely be repurchasing this when I am done. 

15. Nip + Fab - Yoga Blend*
This is another product that has been sent to me this month, and I have used up a lot of it already. I have used to just about below the YOGA word on the bottle, and it has only been 2-3 weeks? I slather it on everyday in the morning and on my arms and legs after I shower. It doesn't flare up my eczema and the lavender coconut scent de-stresses me and allows me to drift to sleep. It's moisturizing and has helped relief my alligator like legs and I can confidently rock some shorts for the summer!

What have been some of your favorites this month? I would love to hear from you!

Until next time,
XO, M.