I know I say this every time I do an empties, or monthly round up post, but honestly time flies by way too quickly. Some of you may know that I have recently moved and with that it has really forced me to go on a "use up everything that I have a little bit of left in the bottle" binge. If you're interested in reading about what I loved, may repurchase again or would just pass on, just keep reading :)
Review & Tutorial: KAT VON D SERPENTINA PALETTE
Monday, August 22, 2016
It's been a hot minute since I did my last Makeup Monday post - like I've said before, July has just been such a busy month for me and while the madness has slowed down a bit, I must say things haven't really settled down and resumed back to normalcy. This past week, I somehow was hit with the bad flu and wasn't exactly sure where I had caught it, I was working from home 2/3 of the week and was just a wreck. Anyways, I'm done with being a broken record, onto the main reason why you're here - to check out my newest Makeup Monday post!
I decided to create two different looks featuring the Kat Von D Serpentina Limited Edition Palette for you guys! I would have to say that the one I favored more is the one directly below with the green and blue/brown shadows. It's more me. The second look, which is the red look at the bottom of the page is out of my usual comfort zone but I wanted to take full advantage of the palette and use the warmer tones and create something else for my lovely readers.
I had actually used a few new products in this makeup look - the new KVD - Lock It Concealer Cream and the Clinique - Super Balanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum with SPF 15. I will attach a quick review of those two products below.
Products used to achieve the looks:
- Clinique - Super Balanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum with SPF 15 (Sahara) - Love! Light weight (med to full coverage, buildable)
- KVD - Lock It Concealer Cream (great coverage, thicker consistency though)
- Kat Von D - Shade & Light Palette
- Blush: MAC - Breath of Plum
- Kat Von D - Shade & Light Palette
- Blush: MAC - Breath of Plum
- Too Faced - Sketch Liner (Black)
- Anastasia Brow Wiz - Chocolate
- KOKO Lashes - KOKO
- Esquido - Companion Lash Glue / Becca - Jaclyn Hill - Champagne Pop Hilighter.
LOOK ONE:
- MUFE Shadows - M-534 (all over shadow, lid to brow), M-646 (crease), M-608 (defined crease)
- MAC Shadow - Brown Script (almost like the cut crease part)
- KVD Serpentina Palette - Scarab all over lid and Nile on bottom lash line.
LOOK TWO:
- Serpentina Palette: Medusa (inner third of lid), Queen (middle of lid) Bloodmilk and Ankh (outer third).
- MUFE Shadows: M-646 (crease)
Below you will find swatches of the entire palette along with my thoughts:
PRO: The shimmers are ultra buttery and pigmented. Beautiful jewel tones and a good range of different pops of colors for you to also use as accent colors if you would like. There is a big variety in terms of colors included so you're not just using a neutral palette.
CON: Though the shimmers are ultra pigmented, there is fallout, so I recommend doing your shadows before you apply your foundation. There are two matte shadows here, Venom + Bloodmilk and both are really patchy and a bit chalky in texture. They do not feel true to their regular matte formulas so I'm not happy with that unfortunately.
Which look do you prefer? I'd love to hear your thoughts! Until next time, XO - M.
bliv skincare review ft. glow & glory, shrink & tighten and deep impact*
Friday, August 19, 2016
This is my second time partnering with B.Liv Skincare products and I was sent three things to try this time around - the glow & glory skin reviving biological mask, shrink & tighten large pores diminishing night complex and the deep impact deep pores massage and cleansing emulsion. To find out my thoughts on this line, please continue reading below.
IDC | Integral Dermo Correction Product Review*
Wednesday, August 17, 2016
IDC (Integral Dermo Correction) is a Canadian brand that focuses on anti-aging skincare products with visible results. They use a patented Regen-16 technology that simultaneously targets the 16 causes of skin aging with the highest concentrations of active ingredients. They offer a range of cleansing, correcting and hydrating anti-aging skincare products for a simple yet effective beauty routine. IDC is now available at beautyboutique.ca and theshoppingchannel.com
While they are a brand that focuses on anti-aging, they also offer products for different age groups, not just the 35+ - you can click the link here to go through a skin mapping guide to find out which product would be right for you.
I was sent three of their products to try (pictured below): 1) IDC Regen Express Perfection ($59.95) 2) IDC SPF 50 Facial Sun Protection Creme ($29.50) and 3) IDC Hydra Seal Healthy Glow ($49.95).
IDC Regen Express Perfection ($59.95)
"An all-in-one skincare solution for the face, eye contour and neck that corrects, moisturizes, protects and conceals in a single step. It is formulated with IDC's patented Regen-16 anti-aging complex to target fine lines, wrinkles, dark circles and puffiness while improving skin firmness, tone and radiance. A universal, light-adapting tint provides flawless coverage and evens the complexion. Includes broad spectrum SPF 15 sun protection."
Thoughts:
The product I received was for fair to medium skin, and even though have developed a tan through the summer months, I am still unsure how this would be a match for fair to medium skin tones. When applied and dried, it runs a bit pink and makes me look quite ashy which is unfortunate. I really wanted to give this product a go and see how it truly worked.
I did however give this product a try at home and have to say that it it is fairly pigmented and would really work as a tinted moisturizer if needed. It is a mousse like consistency that dries to a demi-matte finish. The fact that it also includes SPF is a bonus. As for the other benefits stated with this product, I really can't agree or disagree with it as I was not using it long enough, nor was I able to wear it out or as frequently as I wanted.
IDC Hydra Seal Healthy Glow ($49.95)
"This integral formula locks in hydration while delivering a gradual, streak-free, sunless tan. The moisturizing cream formula delivers progressive tanning while targeting the three mechanisms of hydration: the suppl, retention and distribution of water molecules to different layers of the epidermis. the result? Soft, supple skin with a natural, healthy glow."
Thoughts:
I really enjoyed this product, it was very easy to use and lives up to the claims - a gradual, streak-free delivery. This would be a perfect product to use when transitioning to the fall to keep that summer glow you worked so hard to get. The moisturizer is gel-like and thin in consistency and keeps you hydrated and dewy, leaving your skin plump. I used this at night before bed and made sure to wash my hands after application (just in case).
"This unique formula is the result of years of research into the effects of UVA and UVB rays, as well as the lesser known infrared (IR) rays, which are also part of the sun's spectrum. Free from fragrance, aluminum and parabens, this sun-care product is water-resistent, hypoallergenic and protects skin without clogging pores, leaving skin with a soft, smooth look. Also available in SPF 30."
Thoughts:
I appreciate the fact that this product is specifically made for the face and is SPF 50, in addition it is waterproof. While the product claims to be light in texture and absorbs quickly, I would have to disagree with the "light" feeling. When dried/absorbed, you could still feel it on your face - not heavy, but you could still feel it. In addition, it feels a little bit tacky, it doesn't dry completely on your face. I would use this if I was going out and not requiring the need of any makeup on top.
Until next time, XO - M.
Kerastase Paris | THE DENSIFIQUE COLLECTION for thick and fuller hair *
Monday, August 15, 2016
When you think of the ultimate luxury in haircare, a name that immediately pops up is Kerastase Paris, a brand you can find at salons with the beautiful and elegant packaging. I've tried a few Kerastase products here or there, but never an entire collection targeted to address a specific hair concern. When I was contacted a few months ago to give this brand a try I had to say yes! The added bonus was the fact that I was able to pick out a line specifically addressed to my own unique hair. After going through the "my personalized diagnostic" tool, I was able to narrow down the range of products and collections to the Densifique Collection.
For those who have been reading my blog for a while now, or know me in person, my primary hair concern is lack of volume and thickness. My hair grows really fast, but it is thin and lacks the oompf I desire. The Densifique Collection is used to address visible hair loss but not to the point where you have a receding hairline. For those of you who actually notice a receding hairline, the Aminexil solution is better for you.
Bain Densite: This is a shampoo, that helps with hair that is losing density. It awakens dormant bulbs (I would presume maybe this means hair follicles) and helps to promote growth. It contains Stemoxydine ®: state-of the art densifying molecule and Hyaluronic: to give bounce and plumpness to the hair.
Fondant Densite: Is what I would say a conditioner. It is a light-weight cream formula that helps to seal in the effects of the shampoo and adds lift and volume to the hair. I apply about the size of a toonie to the whole length of the hair as well as the scalp. Make sure you let it sit for 1-2 minutes and then rinse out.
Masque Densite: This mask is perfect for you if you have any damage from constant heat use on the ends of your hair. I am guilty of always using a straightener, and this helps to revive the damage. It says to use it from roots to ends, but I found this to be a bit too rich for my roots, I like to just apply it to the ends. Leave it on for 3-5 minutes and then rinse out. I use this about once a week.
Finally, there is the styling component to this collection, which is the densimorphose. It is a mousse that you apply on towel-dried damp hair. It does ask for a generous amount of this product, they say an orange sized - however I more so use a clementine sized as I have medium length hair right now (shoulder length). This product is applied from the roots and then I finger comb it through the length of the hair. I then flip my hair upside down and blow dry my hair. This product is my holy grail - this is what has given me the oompf! that I really want, it makes me look like I just got a blow-out.
I thoroughly enjoyed the Kerastase Densifique collection and cannot wait to try out any new ones in the future and will definitely purchase some to add to my daily haircare routine as I definitely do see results.
Until next time, XO - M.
Sibu | Sea Berry Therapy Skincare Review*
Friday, August 12, 2016
I was contacted a while back to test out some products from Sibu and being that I've never heard of this brand before, I decided to do some research online about it before I tried it out. This is a brand that has grown to include internal supplement products and a full range of topical skincare products specially targeted for problematic skin. The brand is sold both online as well as in various stores in both the US and Canada.The key ingredient in this skincare line is the sea buckthorn plant which is said to host an abundance of beneficial properties. To find out more, I highly suggest you to visit their site and read the story behind the brand.
For some of you who may know, July was an extremely busy month for me and my skin was the first thing to act up and show the signs of all the stress. Being so, I thought that it would be a perfect time to give the following two products went to me a go.
I was sent the following products to try out:
1. Exfoliating Face and Body Scrub - $24.95
Based on the website, this product is said to remove dead and dull surface cells and removes excessive oil from clogged pores. The apricot and Sea Berry formula won't irritate the skin or tear the delicate surface layer.
Thoughts:
If you are a lover of coarse exfoliators, then you will love this product. It is very reminiscent of a specific drugstore one that is one of my constant holy grails as it also contains apricot. I love me a good coarse exfoliator as it makes me feel like it's really doing its job, getting the gunk and dead skin cells from my face. Does this make me feel like it's doing that? yes, but will I repurchase this? Probably not. This is just way too similar to the drugstore version that I mentioned earlier and that is significantly cheaper and also contained salicylic acid. For the price of this one, I can buy at least 5 of the other one.
2. Polishing Facial Cleanser - $19.95
On the website, this cleanser is deep and gentle, effective for every age. In addition to its antibacterial properties, it gently removes dirt, impurities and make-up while maintaining a healthy balance to your skin without stripping it of its natural properties. This is also said to keep your face fresh, clean and perfectly balanced.
Thoughts:
Love this product! This one has a very subtle citrus scent to it and contains very small exfoliating particles. While this is not coarse like the one above, this is gentle enough for everyday use. The one above is more so for use 2-3x a week. This product thoroughly cleansed my skin and left it feeling very hydrated, light and refreshed. My face did not feel stripped afterwards and was perfect for the hot summer months - cleaning the oil, clogged pores etc. I liked the product enough to possibly repurchase it again in the future, however as a beauty blogger (I have mentioned this before), I always want to try out new products and brands in skincare.
Left: Exfoliating Face & Body Scrub | Right: Polishing Facial Cleanser.
What I am actually most interested to try is the Omega-7 blend said to help fortify the nails and hair. I read a review that after a month, it significantly helps with hair growth and loss.
Have you tried any products from this brand? Any thoughts? Would love to hear about them!
Until next time, XO - M.
Come and celebrate THE TEN SPOT turning 10!!*
Monday, August 8, 2016
Happy Monday my lovely readers :) I wanted to let you all know that this Wednesday, August 10th, one of Canada and Toronto's most popular beauty bar, The Ten Spot, is celebrating its 10th anniversary! To celebrate this milestone, all 19 of the Ten Spot locations across Canada will be partnering with Dress for Success affiliates across Canada (the non-profit organization that helps women re-enter the workforce with professional attire and support services) invites you to drop off any unused beauty products and business accessories.
In addition to that, they will be offering free quickie pedicures, manicures and all waxing services from 11am to 7pm.
For those of you who do not know about The Ten Spot, here's a bit of background info:
Founded in 2006 by a then 24 year old Kristen Wood, THE TEN SPOT® is a beauty bar franchise offering the ultimate “antispa experience.” First launched in Toronto’s Queen Street West neighbourhood, THE TEN SPOT was the first niche beauty bar to fill the gap in salon service offerings. THE TEN SPOT caters to what busy women want most, an environment that combines the convenience of a local nail salon with the top quality standards of high spas.
Locations The Ten Spot currently has 19 locations across Canada: ● Toronto, ON The Annex, The Beaches, Bloor West Village, The Danforth, Don Mills (opening soon), Forest Hill, Hudson’s Bay Queen Street, Leaside, Leslieville, Roncesvalles, Queen West, and Yonge and Eglinton ● Guelph, ON ● Hamilton, ON ● Oakville, ON ● Ottawa, ON Westboro ● West Kelowna, BC ● Vancouver, BC Yaletown ● Charlottetown, PEI
THE TEN SPOT® Channels
Twitter: www.twitter.com/thetenspot
Facebook: www.facebook.com/thetenspot
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thetenspot/
Online: www.thetenspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/thetenspot
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thetenspot/
Online: www.thetenspot.com
Hopefully you will all have a chance to attend this event to celebrate their anniversary as well as supporting a good cause as I will definitely be getting something done that day - maybe a manicure? Don't forget to bring any unused beauty products you may have or business accessories!
Until next time, XO - M.
Quo by ORLY Breathable Nail Polish Review & Swatches*
Tuesday, August 2, 2016
Quo Cosmetics has released a new collection of nail polish that is a unique all-in-one formulation. It contains a basecoat, treatment based color and a top coat. Most importantly, it is said that you can wear this polish while letting your nails breathe. Please read below for some additional info that I received along with the product samples:
Source: Shoppers Drug Mart / Quo PR Company Info
I received 7 colors from this specific formulation alone (all minus cotton candy). Cotton Candy was provided to me for review as I was on a mission to find the perfect baby pink polish formula and I think this one is it. Onto the prime focus of this post, which is on the Breathable formulation. All colors go on smoothly, opaque and delivered a great shine. In fact, some of the colors only required one coat - for e.g. Beauty Essential and Nail Superfood.
As for the packaging, I thoroughly appreciated the rubberized cap/lid area. It provided more grip and gave me more stability. The wand/brush was wide with rounded edges (my favorite kind).
I highly recommend these polishes, I actually got about 4-5 days of wear from a few of them without chipping. You can find these now at Shoppers Drug Mart for $10.99 each and comes in 18 shades.
Here's the product sheet of all the colors that were launched :)
Source: Shoppers Drug Mart / Quo PR Company Info
Until next time, XO - M
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