Sugar Cosmetics Blend Full Coverage Cream Concealer Review

March 25, 2014, 9:30 am

≫ Next: Splurge! The Balm INSTAIN Review and Swatches Argyle

≪ Previous: Olay Regenerist Eye Lifting Serum Review

Every Spring for the past few years, I've been mourning the loss of my favorite bronzer, Tropic Tan by Sugar Cosmetics. Sugar disappeared from stores never to be seen again...until now! First it popped up on Walgreens website (not in stores) and now it's at Kohls.com and select Kohls locations! I typically don't go in the cosmetics section of Kohls since nothing interested me much there, it was always the same old stuff. But when I walked in yesterday...wow! It was a brand new setup with prestige brands like Lorac, The Balm, Pur Minerals, Cargo, Hydroxatone and H2O+. And of course, Sugar! I was so excited to get my Tropic Tan- it's a nice matte bronzer in a giant compact perfect for using on the face and body. The color is perfect for those of us who are light-skinned- not orange and not too dark. They also make a Tropic Tan duo with a peachy blush that's reminiscent of Nars Laguna/Orgasm duo. Anyway, I'm supposed to be talking about Blend, $10 which is a full coverage cream concealer from Sugar.

I've been on a bit of a concealer kick lately, since the first area to show signs of age is the eyes and I'm always looking to lighten and brighten. Let's take a look!

Sugar Blend comes in a tube with a doe foot applicator, which makes it really easy to apply. It's not supposed to crease or move all day and is supposed to cover just about anything.

I chose the color Fair, because concealer should be a shade lighter than your skin. Plus, these things tend to be darker than they say they are anyway. Here's a swatch on my arm- it is indeed full coverage- very thick.

Sadly, I wasn't impressed with this one. The formula was dry and it had a cakey, chalky finish. It did cover pretty well, but the goal of a concealer for me is to not draw attention to my under-eye area, but to make it blend in with the rest of my face. Maybe this would work better on younger skin that's smoother.

Oh well, I still love Tropic Tan, and their I Taste Like Sugar Lip Mini Lip Gloss set (they taste so yummy!). and I plan to try some other products in the line. Before you run to Kohls to check out the new cosmetics department, I should tell you that not every store is getting that makeover. But you can visit their website and click on products you want to buy, then click "find in store" and it'll let you know which stores in your area carry that product.

Are you excited about the new lines at Kohls? Do you think they'll do well there, or flop like when Bath and Body Works and CVS tried to do the same thing and carry prestige lines?

↧

Splurge! The Balm INSTAIN Review and Swatches Argyle

March 25, 2014, 6:54 pm

≫ Next: Boots Botanics Age Defense Microdermabrasion Polish Review

≪ Previous: Sugar Cosmetics Blend Full Coverage Cream Concealer Review

Yesterday, I posted about the new prestige lines popping up at Kohls, and while I was there, I couldn't help but pick up this blush from The Balm. It's a "staining powder blush" which sounded so unique and intriguing, I was willing to part with $22.

There are six shades in all, three "Fall" colors that are darker and three "Spring" colors that are light. I went with Argyle, which is described as Petal Pink and is a Spring color.

It comes in an adorable little book compact with a mirror inside.

This shade is absolutely beautiful...it reminds me of a more pink, less peach Nars Orgasm. Here it is swatched on my arm...I applied it heavy so you can really see the color.

My biggest piece of advice with this blush is to apply it with a very light hand. Ig is super pigmented and the tiniest bit goes a long way. That being said, this really does stain your cheeks and has crazy staying power for a powder blush. This stayed all day on my dry skin. In fact, this evening I looked in the mirror and thought I looked flushed and hoped I wasn't getting sick. Then I remembered, no it's the Instain! I'm so used to my makeup being nonexistent by the time night rolls around that I wasn't used to seeing anything there.

You can purchase Instain at Kohls.

↧

Boots Botanics Age Defense Microdermabrasion Polish Review

March 27, 2014, 1:39 pm

≫ Next: Herbal Essences Naked Sheer Shine Mist Review

≪ Previous: Splurge! The Balm INSTAIN Review and Swatches Argyle

I've tried a few products from the Boots Botanics line and loved them (see HERE and HERE) because they're inexpensive and they work. So I had to try more!

Last week while in Target, I decided to pick up their Microdermabrasion Polish. The best one I've tried thus far on the market is Dr. Brandt's which is $120 for 3.5 oz...yikes! The Boots version is $10.39 for 4 oz...much better, but how does it work? Check it out...

This has lots of natural, skin loving ingredients such as Olive Fruit Oil, Glycerin, and Shea Butter, yet does not leave a greasy film behind like some scrubs can. It contains Pumice stone microparticles as the exfoliant.

It's an opaque cream and if you look closely, you can see the specks of pumice in it.

So, now for the nitty-gritty (sorry couldn't help myself)...how does this compare to Dr. Brandt's Microdermabrasion? To me it feels exactly the same texture-wise, and gets the job done just as well! After using this, my skin was super smooth and soft, rough spots nowhere in sight. The fine particles in a creamy base feel and perform so much like Dr. Brandt's, I'm adding this to my dupes board!

If you're looking for an outstanding face polish, you should definitely give this one a try! You can find it at Target.

↧

Herbal Essences Naked Sheer Shine Mist Review

March 28, 2014, 2:43 pm

≫ Next: Beauty News- New Luxury Skincare Arriving at Target this month!

≪ Previous: Boots Botanics Age Defense Microdermabrasion Polish Review

I try to stay away from shine mists most of the time because while they do smooth frizz once my hair is styled, they also shorten the length of time my hair has volume and make my hair fall flat and look greasy much faster than if I hadn't used it.

When the new Herbal Essences Naked line launched and I saw this Sheer Shine Mist, I figured it was just another shine spray. But the other day I looked at the front of the bottle while at Target and saw that it said 0% silicone. When I read the back, I realized that this is actually meant to be sprayed on while your hair is damp before styling. So this is a whole different product than I thought it was...and I bought it ($4.99).

This spray has an uplifting rosemary mint scent that I just cannot get enough of! It isn't greasy at all...when you spray it, it has the texture of a very very light lotion or leave-in conditioner. It doesn't add any weight to my hair whatsoever making it perfect for fine hair, but since my fine hair is really damaged, it didn't give me quite enough moisture to combat the frizzies. If I use it again once my hair is dry that helps, but I think this product is best for someone who has fine hair that's in good or at least decent condition.

I've mainly been using this as a dry hair shine spray. I use more moisturizing products on damp hair and then finish with this. It gives just the right amount of gloss with zero weight...and the smell...heavenly!

↧

Beauty News- New Luxury Skincare Arriving at Target this month!

March 31, 2014, 1:08 pm

≫ Next: 29 by Lydia Mondavi Wine Blot Lip Treatment Review

≪ Previous: Herbal Essences Naked Sheer Shine Mist Review

I didn't need any more excuses to spend money at Target, but now there are four more. A while back, I talked about how Carol's Daughter was launching their Sacred Tiare hair line and Shea Moisture was debuting a makeup line.

Now, four skincare brands are arriving with some products that will be exclusive to Target and all products will be under $55!

First, the one everyone is most excited about...Laneige, Amore Pacific's Korean skincare line. Target is the only place you'll find this brand in the US, and one of the coolest products in their lineup is this BB Cream in a compact called BB Cushion $34. Its liquid in a sponge in the compact. I've heard that Korean BB Creams are far superior to American ones so I'm dying to try this!

Next is 29 By Lydia Mondavi (yes she's related to the winemakers). This line harnesses the antioxidant powers of the grape and features a day cream that can be reapplied over makeup throughout the day without messing it up! Also on my list...First Crush Lip Scrub $10, and Wine Blot Lip Balm $10.

Next is Borghese. I haven't seen this brand around since I was a fashion merchandiser at Macy's and they had a counter there. The girl that worked behind it was always telling me to try their Fango mud and it was amazing!

Finally, a dermatologist line called MD Complete brings in powerful anti-aging and anti-acne lines. I'm dying to try the Wrinkle Remover for eyes, $28.99.

Target will also be adding some lines we've already been seeing at CVS and Walgreens- LA Roche Posay and Vichy. Also OWN skincare which I've seen at Whole Foods.

Exciting stuff! Have you seen it at your local Target yet?

↧

29 by Lydia Mondavi Wine Blot Lip Treatment Review

March 31, 2014, 4:42 pm

≫ Next: NYC Cosmetics Smooth Skin BB Creme 5-in-1 Review

≪ Previous: Beauty News- New Luxury Skincare Arriving at Target this month!

Earlier, I posted about some new luxury skincare lines debuting at Target this month, and I posted photos from my local Target on my Facebook page.

About the Brand

Lydia is married to Robert Mondavi Jr., of the Mondavi Winery in Napa CA. This line contains Grape Seed extract, which is a potent antioxidant, 50 times stronger than Vitamin E and 20 times stronger than Vitamin C.

The first product I tried was the Wine Blot Lip Treatment, $10, and I wanted to share my thoughts with you because this stuff is fantastic. Take a look...

Packaging

The packaging really impressed me! The box is simple and elegant and the sides have grapes and leaves in silver that are raised and add a nice texture. The lip balm tube itself is heavy weight (more like a lipstick) in a silver tube with a 29 stamped on top of the cap. Overall it looks very luxe, especially for a $10 product!

Formula

The formula contains a lot of ingredients that are great for the skin such as Lanolin, Grape Seed Oil and Castor Seed Oil. It's paraben free, SLS Free, ALS free and not tested on animals.

The balm itself feels smooth, not waxy when applied and it melts into the lips. It reminds me of Fresh's Sugar Lip Treatment in terms of feel but at half the price! My lips were looking really dry and cracked before I applied it and within minutes they looked like a thousand times better, plump and smooth. It adds a bit of sheen but not gloss to the lips and makes them look and feel very supple. It has a scent to it, but I can't place what it is- it's a somewhat fresh scent, not perfumey or gourmand.

The Bottom Line

This is not just your average lip balm in terms of packaging, high quality ingredients, and the luxurious melting texture. It performs like a much more expensive balm, and I'm sorry to say it Fresh (you know I love you) but my HG Sugar Lip Treatment has been replaced by one that's half the price!

I'll post this to my dupes board as an alternative to Fresh's Sugar Lip Treatment.

You can purchase Wine Blot Lip Treatment at Target.

↧

NYC Cosmetics Smooth Skin BB Creme 5-in-1 Review

April 2, 2014, 9:09 am

≫ Next: Amlactin Review

≪ Previous: 29 by Lydia Mondavi Wine Blot Lip Treatment Review

Several weeks ago, I posted about some new NYC Cosmetics products that were launching for Spring 2014. But other than the mascaras, I haven't seen the other products anywhere and I look every time I'm out.

Finally I spotted the BB Creme at Target and it was only $2.50...so how could I resist?

The packaging is nothing fancy, just a clean, simple squeeze tube, but I like it. It's smaller than some other BB's at 1oz. but its so cheap who cares?

This creme is supposed to have 5 benefits in 1-

1. Protect Skin

2. Minimize Pores

3. Erase Imperfections and Minimize Fine Lines

4. Smooth Skin

5. Brighten for a Luminous and Natural Look.

The medium shade appears too dark for me in the heavy swatch below, but once blended, it looks really close, and my skin always gets some color in summer anyway.

Notice in the list of 5 benefits it didn't say that this moisturizes? Good, because it really doesn't. Most BB's are combo moisturizers and color but this is strictly a "skin perfector" and those with oily skin will appreciate the satin, almost matte finish on this vs. the dewy finish of most BB's. I used moisturizer beforehand because I could tell when I swatched it that it wouldn't be enough for my dry skin.

This gives light coverage, but it covered areas of mild redness and evened out my skin nicely. It goes on like a thin film so it doesn't cake or sit in lines at all!

I've actually been using this all week, just adding concealer under my eyes and around my nose and my skin looks pretty near flawless!

I didn't notice any pore minimizing, like it claims to do, but it does brighten due to teeny tiny sparkles in the product. Don't worry...its not a crazy amount and I couldn't see them on my face, even in sunlight. I just happened to notice them on my hand when I looked reeealy closely.

Overall, this is a great pick for $2.50, especially for the upcoming summer season. If you don't have a ton of flaws to hide and want something to even out your skin with zero weight, you've found your bargain right here!

↧

Amlactin Review

April 3, 2014, 12:21 pm

≫ Next: Hard Candy Highlight and Contour Cheek Duo Review

≪ Previous: NYC Cosmetics Smooth Skin BB Creme 5-in-1 Review

I recently had the opportunity to try 4 Amlactin products, and I am loving them! If you have dry skin like I do, you probably have a million bottles of lotion lying around that don't really fix the problem. If you've been hesitant to try Amlactin because its a little more expensive than a lot of other drugstore lotions, and don't want to add yet another lotion to your collection, I can pretty much promise you, that won't happen.

Here's why its different...Amlactin contains Alpha Hydroxy Acids, which slough off dead, dry skin and help it to retain moisture. If you have dry skin, regular lotions don't give lasting results because the layer of flaky skin sitting on top doesn't allow the moisture to penetrate. Gently exfoliating that layer allows moisture to get down into the skin and protect it.

There are four different Amlactin products, each different in their own way, but all contain those Alpha Hydroxy Acids. Take a look!

The Hydrating Body Cream is the thickest formula for the body and its what I started with because my skin was a mess from the winter. I had cracks and splits in my hands and chalky white knees and ankles (attractive I know). I used this thick cream every night before bed and each morning, my skin looked better and better! My legs were in particularly bad shape with dry patches and bumps and they now look smooth and more even after using this for a few nights. I'll continue to use this thick cream on my knees, elbows and hands since they always can use extra moisture. Below is a swatch of the Hydrating Body Cream.

Next up is the Moisturizing Body Lotion. This comes in a white pump bottle with green accents (I'm using a sample so it's not a pump) and is the thinnest and lightest of the formulas. It still packs an exfoliating punch at 12% lactic acid. I use this every day after my shower since its lightweight and dries quickly. It keeps my skin feeling hydrated all day.

Next is the Cerapeutic Moisturizing Body Lotion. The bottle is just like the last one but with blue accents instead of green. This lotion is medium weight and I would say it's in between the Moisturizing Cream and the Moisturizing Lotion in the green bottle as far as thickness. This one contains three essential ceramides, which are natural lipids found in our skin's surface that help prevent moisture loss (people with dry skin don't have enough of these, naturally). I've been using this at night now, after the first couple of nights using the thicker cream. I love this and my skin is starting to act differently in that it stays hydrated throughout the day and night.

Last but not least is the Amlactin Foot Cream. This treatment is the thickest of the four and is the best foot cream I've ever tried! I slather it on at night, put on a pair of socks, and wake up with baby soft feet. Over time, it smoothes the calluses but you'll notice the rough areas are a great deal smoother after the first night. Sandal season is coming, so I'm really glad I have this!

Overall, I really recommend Amlactin for anyone who has dry skin, from mild to severe. These products have changed my skin in a way that regular moisturizers couldn't. I'm looking forward to having smooth, even skin that I can show off this summer.

To find out more and get a coupon for $3 off, please visit Amlactin's website (coupon under Special Offers tab.

Have you tried Amlactin? I'd love to hear your thoughts!

*Disclosure-These samples were sent to me for a review by a PR company or brand and in no way influenced my opinion of the product.

↧

Hard Candy Highlight and Contour Cheek Duo Review

April 4, 2014, 11:14 am

≫ Next: Josie Maran Argan Infinity Lip and Cheek Creamy Oil Review

≪ Previous: Amlactin Review

New for Spring 2014 is Hard Candy's Highlight and Contour Cheek Duos. They remind me of Benefit's Fine One One, so are they a dupe? Take a look...

This comes in 3 shades- Cheeky Pink (a pink shade), Sunkissed (Bronze shade) and Sweet Cheeks (Rosy shade).
I purchased it in Sweet Cheeks ($7 at Walmart). It's a swivel up stick that's about 2/3 cream blush and 1/3 cream highlighter.

Starting at the apples of your cheeks, you just swipe this back toward the temple with the highlighter as the top shade. Then, just blend and you're left with that sculpted look with a subtle glow along the tops of your cheekbones from the highlighter. Its actually very easy to use and pretty much foolproof!

Here's a swatch...I swiped it on dark and didn't blend it so you could see it well on camera.

So how does it compare to Benefit's Fine One One? Its a very similar concept and packaging but the biggest difference is that the Benefit version comes in only one option, which contains two shades and a highlighter together in one stick. Personally, I find it easier to blend one shade + a highlighter than two.

At only $7, Hard Candy's Highlight and Contour is a great alternative to Benefit's Fine One One, which is $30! I'll pin this to my Dupes Board on Pinterest.

You can purchase Hard Candy at Walmart.

↧

Josie Maran Argan Infinity Lip and Cheek Creamy Oil Review

April 4, 2014, 11:39 pm

≫ Next: Amlactin Giveaway- Get Smooth Skin Just in Time for Summer

≪ Previous: Hard Candy Highlight and Contour Cheek Duo Review

I was in Sephora today and almost squealed out loud when I saw the new Josie Maran Argan Infinity Lip and Cheek Creams, $18.I'm pretty much obsessed with my Argan Infinity Cream and a version with color is too good to be true!

Take a peek!

It comes in 6 shades:

Everlasting Honey- Rosy Nude

Limitless Pink- Medium Pink

Timeless Coral- Warm Vibrant Coral

Endless Guava- Vibrant Poppy Pink

Always Cherry- Vibrant Cool Red

Boundless Berry- Rich Cool Wine

I decided to try Limitless Pink. I usually go for nude shades but when I swatched this on my hand it looked very pretty and subtle.

It comes in a squeeze tube just like the original version, only smaller.

Here's the description:

What it is:
A natural, hydrating lip and cheek formula infused with argan oil and color.

What it does:
This creamy, colorful product adds a pop of dewy, natural color to lips and cheeks. The tinted treatment starts as a cream and melts into an oil, promoting hydration and nourishment without a greasy finish.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Phthalates

What else you need to know:

“I love putting my Argan Infinity Intensive Creamy Oil on my lips and cheeks to battle dryness and keep them soft. So I thought, why not make a tinted version to add a kiss of color? I’m in love with these cute color wonders. The tint is transparent, so it looks natural, but the popping pigment brightens up lips and cheeks instantly!”—Josie Maran

Ingredients:

Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil**, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil*, Beeswax**, Jojoba Esters**, Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed)/Aleurites Fordi Oil Copolymer**, Acacia Decurrens (Mimosa) Flower Wax**, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax**, Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) Peel Oil**, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil**, Glyceryl Behenate**, Sorbitan Oleate**, Tocopherol, Polyglycerin-3**, Phenethyl Alcohol**, Water**, Caprylyl Glycol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane. May Contain: Mica**, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891)**, Red 6 (Ci 15850), Red 33 (Ci 17200), Red 7 (Ci 15850), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499). *Organic **Natural.

I love, love, love the feel of this balm! It is so soft and just melts into the lips, leaving behind a gorgeous sheer tint of color with a hint of glossiness. This isn't waxy like a lip balm or sticky like a gloss. The texture is just amazing. The color is sheer going on, but buildable and it definitely stains the lips a little so you'll see some color even after the glossy finish wears off. It feels incredibly hydrating and comfortable on the lips.

That being said, I find it to be too dewy for cheeks. This cream melts into an oil which is a great feeling on the lips but is a little weird on the cheeks...its not matte like other cream blushes. But I don't care...it's my HG lip product so that's what I'll happily use it for!

In the swatch,the color looks heavy but it's not at all...this gives a beautiful My Lips But Better effect for me.

Here it is next to the original Infinity Cream. It's actually a huge tube considering you only need a tiny bit. It costs $18, but right now this week, Sephora is giving 15% off to Beauty Insiders in the stores, plus you get a free clutch with samples! So I paid $16 and change for this.

So is this Splurgeworthy? Yes! Go and get this now, seriously!

↧

Amlactin Giveaway- Get Smooth Skin Just in Time for Summer

April 5, 2014, 4:45 pm

≫ Next: Julep Maven Modern Beauty Box April 2014 Reveal

≪ Previous: Josie Maran Argan Infinity Lip and Cheek Creamy Oil Review

The Budget Beauty Blog has teamed up with Amlactin to give away four (4) Amlactin products to one lucky winner!

If you missed my review of Amlactin's products, check it out here.

Amlactin's Alpha Hydroxy formula will get your skin in top shape for summer, smoothing away any dull, rough patches.

Here's what you could win...

Cerapeutic Travel Size 2oz.

Full Size Foot Cream 3oz.

Travel Size Lotion 2 oz.

Full Size Ultra Cream- 4.9 oz.

Enter Below and Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

↧

Julep Maven Modern Beauty Box April 2014 Reveal

April 7, 2014, 3:55 am

≫ Next: Hard Candy CC Color Correcting Tinited Moisturizer Stick Review

≪ Previous: Amlactin Giveaway- Get Smooth Skin Just in Time for Summer

I got my Julep Maven Box over the weekend, and I realized that I had forgotten to change my Style Profile this month. Usually, I go to the site and take a look at what each box contains and choose my favorite but it completely slipped my mind. When I first signed up, I got Boho Glam (2 nail colors and 1 beauty product) when I took the quiz, but I wasn't crazy about the nail polish colors that month so I switched to It Girl (3 nail polishes). Then last month, I decided to try Modern Beauty, which is 2 Full Sized Beauty Products and I got a cool lip scrub and lip treatment. I'm a little bummed because it looks like the nail polishes in this month's box were neons and bright summery colors, which I love when the weather gets warm. But since my profile still says Modern Beauty, I got 2 Beauty Products. Take a look...

This month's Modern Beauty box contains a a blush and a bronzer from a new line called Glow. They contain diamond powder and are supposed to give a poreless effect.

I also got a $10 off coupon and a quote from Cyndi Lauper, "You don't have to be like anyone else".

The blush color is called Peach Bellini and is a really pretty shade of pink, perfect for my fair skin.

Thr bronzer is called Light Golden Bronze.

Both come in sleek black cases with a mirror inside. I really like the packaging!

Here are some swatches...I went heavy so you could see them on camera. Both have some shimmer in them, which I don't mind in blush, and with bronzer I don't mind it if I'm using it here and there for contouring but when I'm using it all over, I prefer matte bronzers. This one is a cocoa-like shade, and not too orange, which is a good thing.

Overall, I'll probably use both of these products. They're really nice quality and I like the shades.

Want to get a FREE Julep Maven box? Click below, take the quiz, or choose your box and use the code at checkout!

↧

Hard Candy CC Color Correcting Tinited Moisturizer Stick Review

April 8, 2014, 10:03 am

≫ Next: Revlon Bold Lacquer by Grow Luscious Mascara Review

≪ Previous: Julep Maven Modern Beauty Box April 2014 Reveal

I don't usually shop at Walmart, I'm more of a Target girl. But every now and then, I pop in just to check out what's new with Hard Candy since Walmart is the only place you can buy it. They have a bunch of new products out for Spring 2014 and I picked up 5 or 6 different things, including the Highlight and Contour for Cheeks that I reviewed last week.

Another new product for Spring is the CC Tinted Moisturizer. This reminded me right away of Tarte's new Colored Clay CC Primer Stick. Both have green and purple pigments in the stick to color correct redness and sallowness. I'll compare the two later in the post, but first, I wanted to talk about the Hard Candy version.

This comes in 6 shades, and I chose Fair which was the lightest one, since Light (the next shade up) looked too dark. This looks like a twist-up foundation stick but has color surrounding a green and purple marbled core. This is where the color correction comes in, since green corrects red in the skin and purple brightens dull or sallow skin.

Here's a swatch of Fair on my skin..it's actually a pretty close color match, other than being a bit yellow, but that's the story of my life. Most foundations are yellow based since that's what 80% of people have. I'm one of those weirdos with pink undertones in my skin.

So I'm sad to say this product was a waste of $7 for me. The color correcting aspect was okay, but I barely noticed because there was a more pressing issue- this clung to dry patches I didn't even know I had even over primer, and produced a fuzzy, flaky texture that is so not sexy. Check out my chin below.

So how does it compare to Tarte's CC Stick?

Tarte's version did the exact same thing for me, so maybe these aren't meant for people with dry skin. I'd love to hear from you if you're oily and this did or didn't work for you!

I'll post this as a dupe on my Pinterest dupes board because they performed the same, at least on me. I personally wouldn't recommend either, but it's hard for me to say that this won't work for someone with a different skin type than me.

So if you're in the market for a CC Stick, try Hard Candy's for $7 before you drop $34 on Tarte's version.

↧

Revlon Bold Lacquer by Grow Luscious Mascara Review

April 11, 2014, 4:39 pm

≫ Next: Beauty Box 5 April 2014 Review and Reveal

≪ Previous: Hard Candy CC Color Correcting Tinited Moisturizer Stick Review

I recently spotted the new Revlon Bold Lacquer by Grow Luscious mascara at Bed Bath and Beyond, and I can never resist a new mascara, so of course I bought it.

According to the packaging, this is supposed to give an intense and deep color to the lashes. I'm not sure how much darker my lashes can get than black, or if this is just a gimmick. The brush is your typical mascara wand, no interesting shapes or spikes.

Here are my before and afters.

Before:

After:

Overall, this gave decent length and volume, but I was a bit underwhelmed by this one. My lashes look black...not any darker than any other mascara I've used and they don't have a luster to them (at least that I can notice). I'm not even sure how you could notice shine/luster on your lashes, they're so small! Weird.
Also, the wand had pretty densely packed bristles, so I had some issues with lashes clumping together- it wasn't easy to create separation.

For me, this just wasn't really worth it. Bold Lacquer is available at Bed, Bath and Beyond stores for $5.99.

↧

Beauty Box 5 April 2014 Review and Reveal

April 14, 2014, 5:03 pm

≫ Next: Maybelline Pumped Up Colossal Mascara Review

≪ Previous: Revlon Bold Lacquer by Grow Luscious Mascara Review

It's that time again, when all of my subscription boxes start arriving! I got my Beauty Box 5 over the weekend, and I wanted to share what I got...check it out.

First up is BH Cosmetics California Eyeshadow Palette in Hollywood, San Francisco, and Malibu-The purple shade isn't one that I'd wear everyday, but it's definitely pretty. The other two are great for everyday!

Blum Naturals All Purpose Cleansing Wipes in Citrus- This is a travel sized container with a keychain attached for easy on-the-go portability. There are actually 30 wipes in there, so it should last a while! I love that these are safe for babies too, because it'll definitely come in handy when I'm out with my 10 month old.

Bonnie Bell Lip Definer in Boysenberry- This was my least favorite product in this month's box. I don't use lip liners, and the color is darker than what I'd normally wear, even if I did wear lip liner.

NickaK New York Hydro Lipstick- This lipstick is awesome! It feels lightweight but is super pigmented and creamy- full of moisture. The only problem is the color- I'm not a red lipstick person. But I would definitely pick this up in a different shade because I really love the formula.

Jergens Natural Glow Moisturizer 3 Day Sample- This is a great way to try Natural Glow and it's in 3 separate convenient packs. I love Jergens Natural Glow because last year they changed the formula so that it doesn't give off that Self-Tanner odor and it really doesn't! I was skeptical because a lot of them smell good upon application, but I wake up smelling a funky yeasty smell. Not with this- its the best!

Overall, I liked this month's Beauty Box 5! If you're not familiar with it, this box costs $12 per month for 5 samples (and some full sizes too!).

*Disclosure-These samples were sent to me for a review by a PR company or brand and in no way influenced my opinion of the product.

↧

Maybelline Pumped Up Colossal Mascara Review

April 15, 2014, 11:06 am

≫ Next: Birchbox April 2014 Reveal and Review

≪ Previous: Beauty Box 5 April 2014 Review and Reveal

Yesterday I posted some photos of new products at Walgreens on my Facebook page, one of which was Maybelline's new Pumped Up! mascara.

On a side note, if you haven't liked the Budget Beauty Blog on Facebook yet, you're missing out! I post all of the new products I see out at the drugstores in real time, so you don't have to read the blog to find out about the newest product launches.

Pumped Up! Colossal is supposed to give up to 16x more volume. It doesn't say anything about length but I find that all mascaras give at least a little bit.

As a child of the 80's, I kind of have a thing for hot pink, so I love the packaging, with it's neon yellow writing and bullet shape. It's very 80's cool.

The brush is the kind that's wider in the middle and tapered on the ends. I don't have much luck with this kind of brush unless its curved because while I'm getting my corner lashes with the tapered side, the wider part is smushing into my other lashes, getting in the way and smudging up my eyelids.

Before:

After:

Overall this gave me decent volume but I found the formula to be wet and the brush a little tricky to control. I also had some lashes sticking together and had to work hard to create separation.
I like a false lash look and this one just didn't give me the "wow" I was looking for.

Would you try this one or pass on it?

↧

Birchbox April 2014 Reveal and Review

April 15, 2014, 5:30 pm

≫ Next: Ipsy Glam Bag April 2014 Beauty Rocks Reveal

≪ Previous: Maybelline Pumped Up Colossal Mascara Review

All of my subscription boxes are showing up this week and yesterday my Birchbox arrived! The theme of this month's box is Rainy Days and it included a Rainy Day tip of something to do on a rainy day. Mine was to watch movies...not too creative, I do that anyway, haha.

The first thing I got was this Kind Snacks Healthy Grains bar- maple pumpkin seeds with sea salt. I'm not really into healthy snacks (gimme chocolate any day!) but I'll probably at least take a bite of this and see what's what. I'm not a fan of sweet and salty combos either but my husband is, so maybe he'll end up with this.

Next is Fekkai Technician Color Care shampoo. I already have one of these that I got in a box recently but I'm not sure if it was in Birchbox or Ipsy. Either way, I love this shampoo, so it's all good.

Next I was excited to get a sample of The Balm's new lip and cheek palette called "How 'Bout Them Apples" (remember Matt Damon in Good Will Hunting?). The shade I got was Pie and it's such a pretty rosy color that looks amazing on my lips and cheeks. It just gives a hint of color and kind of stains your skin without looking dewy.

Next is Cynthia Rowley eyeliner in Silver. This color is so pretty and I can't wait to use this!

Finally, a mini nail polish by Color Club called Heirloom Pearls. It's a white shade with a pearlescent finish. I usually find that white shades look like when I used to paint my nails with White Out in Jr. High (anyone else do that?), but the pearly finish on this will keep it from looking like that.

Overall, I was really happy with this month's box. If you're interested in joining Birchbox, it's $10 a month and you can cancel anytime.

↧

Ipsy Glam Bag April 2014 Beauty Rocks Reveal

April 17, 2014, 7:37 am

≫ Next: New Product Alert! Benefit Tinted Lip Balms!

≪ Previous: Birchbox April 2014 Reveal and Review

My Ipsy Glam bag arrived yesterday and more than made up for the so-so bag I got last month. Check it out!

This month's theme is Beauty Rocks and what says rock & roll better than black eyeliner? I got a huge sample size of Urban Decay's new 24/7 eyeliner in a new shade- black Velvet! Unlike Zero and Perversion, this is a soft black, almost bordering on charcoal gray (see my swatch at the end of the post). This sample will last a long time as its not too far off from being full size!

Next is Demeter Jasmine roll-on perfume. Demeter is known for their single-scent roll-ons and this one is a true Jasmine. It smells wonderful, like summer in a bottle!

Next is a sample tube of Dr. Brandt's Microdermabrasion. I recently got a sample of this in one of my subscriptions but can't remember which. No matter, I love it and can always use more.

Next is a Mary Kay @Play Jelly Lip Gloss. This Berry Me shade is so pretty. It looks dark in the tube but as you can see from the swatch (below) it's a subtle flush of color and I love it! My only complaint is that the texture is very thick and sticky, however the trade off is that it lasts longer.

Finally, is Elizabeth Mott's Pop!Goes the Shadow in Champagne. This is such a pretty color and this shadow is super soft and pigmented.

Here are the swatches...Urban Decay Black Velvet 24/7, Mary Kay Jelly Gloss, Elizabeth Mott Shadow.

Finally, I got a bonus this month with my Ipsy points... A full size Tokyomilk Dark La Vie en Rose Lip Balm. It smells like Rosewater and is so so moisturizing! I put it on and it was so thick and hydrating it made the lines in my lips pretty much disappear! To get Ipsy Points, you can review products, your whole Glam Bag, refer friends, etc.

I have to say, my favorite subscription this month was Ipsy! Such an amazing bag for only $10! To sign up, click here.

↧

New Product Alert! Benefit Tinted Lip Balms!

April 17, 2014, 1:01 pm

≫ Next: 500th Post!

≪ Previous: Ipsy Glam Bag April 2014 Beauty Rocks Reveal

I was watching Benefit on HSN today and saw a new product exclusive to HSN- tinted lip balms! It comes four colors that match their famous lip and cheek liquid tints:

Benebalm

Posiebalm

Lollibalm

Cha Cha Balm

Hurry because these were selling quickly during the broadcast! They're $18 and only available at HSN.com. Click on each name above to go straight to each product to purchase! They also come with a travel sized original Benetint!

↧

500th Post!

April 21, 2014, 4:40 pm

≫ Next: Win a Full Size Benefit Lollitint Lip and Cheek Stain!

≪ Previous: New Product Alert! Benefit Tinted Lip Balms!

This is my 500th post, and to celebrate, I'll be doing giveaways all week long. I just want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart for reading the Budget Beauty Blog and for all of your comments, emails and support!

I wouldn't be doing this at all if not for you, so to show my appreciation, I'll be giving away some really amazing prizes. Here's a preview, so don't forget to come back every day to enter each new giveaway!

Tuesday, April 22nd- Full size Benefit Lollitint (Worth $30). This new lip and cheek stain from Benefit is a gorgeous shade of soft orchid- Pantone's color of the year!