Review- Smashbox Wicked Lovely Lip Gloss

This lip gloss is from the yet to be released Smashbox "Wicked Lovely" Fall Collection. My color is Sultry and it's a deep wine purple with a hint of shimmer. Now that may sound daunting to some, but I swear it even looks good on me and I'm ghostly pale! I would say any tone of skin with cool undertones could use this color. It's so perfect for fall and winter. I've seen the whole collection and it's all about smokey eyes and either very dark or very light lips. I didn't see any "in-between" lip colors. This gloss is rich without being goopey and stays on like a champ. And even my dry shriveled lips were moisturized with this formula. It's nice to wear a lip color and not have to worry about putting on lip balm every half hour. I got a matching lip pencil which I'll review after and the combination is great. When you see this at Sephora (or anywhere for that matter) this fall, try it on your hand. You'll be shocked at the wearability of the color!

Deedlejuse says:
The thing I love the best about writing for this site is I get to try colors and smells I would not necessarily choose myself. The color I was sent is called Coy, I absolutely adore it, it is not a color I would have chosen myself because in the packaging it is deceptively tan looking. In all actuality it is a velvety pink once applied to the lips, and one of the most wearable colors I have encountered in lip gloss. I am pretty sure it would work on just about any skin tone. The wonderful texture of the gloss is silky, and like Hillary said rich, but it doesn't feel sticky (a real pet peeve of mine). It lasts a long time, even without lip pencil. I would say this lip gloss really is "wicked" lovely. Please note I am from MA and up here wicked=awesome!

Sheba says:

Me, three. Their colors seem very adaptable to every one's face and coloring. Mine is Sweet and it is sweet but not ridiculously sweet-looking. It is a little difficult to try to describe a color as we each see something different in the various shades. There are just so many variations of pink and red. Okay, I will try to give my impressions but don't hold me to them. It is almost like a pink cotton candy but not exactly. It is a softer pink-almost a frosted look which is nice. It looks very nice on and it has an innocent appearance which can be appealing. I think it looks good on my light skin and will also look as well on my fake tan skin when I do apply tanning to it. It is very silky on and not too thick as some glosses tend to be. I find it has some staying power but I am able to make all glosses and lipsticks disappear after a short time. Accordingly I am never without a few to reapply as needed. This is a definite keeper.

Review - Sycamore Boutique 1899 Soap Company Products

I got a cute little bundle of products from Sycamore Boutique, and actually at this moment I am burning the delicious spring lilac soy candle and it's so cute and teeny but spreads a wonderful scent throughout our apartment (which isn't easy because it's a long long hallway with many rooms!). The candles are slow burning and all natural, so you don't have to worry about lead in the wicks and other gross things creeping into your lovely scents.
I also received an unscented shea butter lotion that is very natural smelling and not thick and difficult to absorb into your hands like some shea butter products. It cures dry spots like elbows and knees really great also.
My two REALLY favorite items I got though are the rose petals perfume oil and the cherries & chocolate car/closet/drawer freshener. The freshener is an adorable heart shape (and I love anything star or heart shaped) with a really pretty soft penetrating scent. I'm currently using it in our self-built closet in the bedroom and it's making a huge difference removing the musty weird smell that has sort of creeped into there from who knows where. The perfume oil is soooooo sooooo beautiful. It's not overpowering but has a strong enough smell to last all day (even through a strenuous gym workout, I could still smell it), and it comes in a cute little glass rollerball applicator bottle that is easy to keep in a purse/make up bag. It completely lacks any chemical, artificial or weird smell to it, it's just straight rose scent with no weird by products to muck it up.
What a great series of products with an impressive dedication to natural products.

CitySlicker Says:
I too got a little bundle from Sycamore Boutique.
Spring Tulip Candle – I burned this in the office and it carried throughout the area. It is a bright spring bouquet that is very pretty and enveloped all that came through. I then brought this tiny dream home to fill my living area with a fresh bunch of floral sunshine. This candle is small but throws a scent into the air even before lighting it. I really liked my scent!
Cotton Shea Butter Cream – This is a perfect scent for anyone who doesn’t really like scents; it’s light and smells clean. I used this after showering. It absorbs really quickly and left my skin feeling soft and supple. The moisture lasts throughout the day to.
Jessica McClintock Perfume Oil – This is a powdery musky scent that also has floral notes. I apply in the morning and found that it faded throughout the day, by the end of the day I could no longer smell anything at all. It’s a very pretty feminine scent.
Car Freshener in Juniper – This little freshener is very cute and in the shape of a vw beetle. It’s got a true juniper scent that really smells fresh. I put this in my car and have smelled the scent all week, it’s not overpowering in a perfumey way, and it’s like having a juniper bush in the back seat. The scent is beginning to fade but it’s still there and I am sure will be for some time.

Hillary says:
I got the perfume oil in Downy scent (yes the fabric softener) and it smells just like the real thing (one of my favorite scents in the world). I've been let down by fragrance oils before, I found the scent just wasn't strong enough, but that can't be said for this oil. I could still smell it hours after putting it on.
I also got she butter lotion in Downy scent. It smells wonderful! I love the fact that it moisturizes but it sinks in completely. If you wear layers of fragrance (body wash, lotion and perfume) the scent lingers much longer.
I don't recommend the Woodland Violet scent of candle because although it smells divine in the tin, once lit I could only smell it by holding it up near my face. From the looks of the other reviews, this is only the case with the scent I got.
The car freshener I chose is Violet as well and it smells divine. It is even strong enough to smell over my husband's smoking and is shaped appropriately enough as a car.Sycamore boutique has hundreds of scents to choose from and their prices are out of this world.

Maria says: Well, I burned my entire tin of the lovely Orange-Vanilla scent. Yum. Such a great smell. I will say that I could smell it much better in the bathroom - which is very small. When I moved it to my bedroom, I couldn't really smell it anymore unless I was very close to it (like you Hillary). When I opened up the rest of my little package from this great company, my daughter immediately took off with the star-shaped room freshener (in Downy) smells JUST like it - she hung it from her ceiling fan in her bedroom and when the fan is oscilating it smells just like fresh laundry in there - I got the perfume oil and body lotion in Blue Musk and it has to be one of the cleanest, softest, scents I've ever had the pleasure of wearing - it's so pretty and it's not like when you smell it you can say "oh this smells like ________" (insert perfume company name here) because it is unique. I wish the scent lingered a little longer on me. But that tends to be a problem with me - scents tend to fade quickly - who knows...maybe it's my skin's absorption properties! I can imagine that I'd have a field day with the amount of products to choose from. This is just an all around GREAT company.

Deedlejuse says:
This is a relatively difficult review for me to write. My job is for a company that is quite similar to this boutique, but their products are much cheaper. Unfortunately, my soy candle went the way Maria and Hillary's did. I got Lemon Verbena and I loved the size of the candle tin, and the scent before it was lit, but I couldn't smell it at all after it was burning. I let it burn a long, long time before I decided to just give up and snuff it. The car freshener I got in a scent called Mediterranean Fig; I wasn’t the biggest fan of this fig smell. I actually used it in the car, which was a bad decision. It got so strong the first day (probably because it was really hot) that it was difficult to breathe, and by the second had faded to nothing. My recommendation on the air freshener is: by in bulk to save on shipping, pick a smell you know you'll love, and please use them when the temperature outside is less than 90*. The lotion was nice, and of course it is cool that you can have it scented with your perfume. I got Angel Food, it was a very strong version of the desert. I really did like the smell I just found it strong. The perfume oil was Sandy Beach, it was a very accurate smell beachy flowers and maybe cucumber to make it sort of fresh. Not overly coconut, which is nice. Again, the oil, like the lotion is very strong. I think that they are both stronger than alcohol based perfume, which is quite unusual for oil. Overall I kind of think purchasing blind is risky, maybe have them send you samples of the smells first? I don't know I guess even if you hate it you have only wasted $7 for the perfume oil!
P.S. I just realized that I was also scent a glycerin soap which is useful when one is having a hot flash. I very much like the smell of the rose geranium, and the soap suds well and lasts a while. Unfortunately, I'm 24 so I cant report back on the hot flash thing......

Sheba says:

I can see why Deedlejuse had difficulty reviewing these items as she is associated with another line. However, these are in a completely different category completely. Nantucket Naturals is top of the line while Sycamore Boutique is a much lower priced alternative. Actually I probably should not say alternative - but addition. I would not leave Nantucket Naturals for just about anything however, I would definitely add Sycamore Boutique. I selected the Orange-Clove Candle and it is pure Heaven. I love it. . . and I did have it throughout our home but I put it out pretty fast as I do not want to use it up before I can replace it with maybe 10 more. It is addictive. That combination is one of the most pleasant ones that I have ever been surrounded by and they do an excellent job of capturing it. Then I chose the Cotton Blossom Perfume Oil which is one of my favorite scents. It is very clean without blanketing you in a Tide or detergent aroma. It is very refreshing and I enjoyed it. It is strong without being too strong. You might think if it is strong it will last all day. However, it fades as the day goes on but that is not a problem if you carry the little bottle with you. I often have to refresh my fragrances and am used to doing that. I decided on the Lemon Verbena Shea Butter Lotion and that was another good decision. Being a 'citrus nut' I love the fragrance -- it is very captivating. I feel that the lotion is absorbed into the skin very nicely and definitely moisturizes you and I love it on elbows and those other very dry area. The scent is not overpowering and needs a bit of refreshing once in a while but once again I wash my hands so often (due to my dog) that I always have lotion handy so I can freshen up frequently. My pick of the Fresh Linen Scented Ornament could not have been more on target. I love to keep something like a scented candle or sachet in the linen closet. This leaves such a pleasant and clean aroma in there that I love it when it hits me as I open the door. I definitely have to stock up on some of these. . . they are wonderful. All in all I would say Sycamore Boutique is a winner with very affordable products that actually work as intended.

Review- Three Custom Color Specialists Light Brights Lipstick

As unparalleled experts in the makeup industry, the former Club Kids transformed these outrageously bright colors into the Light Brights Collection - modern, playful and sheer moisturizing stains for the lips. All four of the shades are great for all skin tones and have names that evoke the nightlife of a totally awesome decade.

This collection consists of four colors of 80's inspired day-glo named after NYC nightclubs of that era. I have Palladium, a bright magenta color. I initially thought this would strictly be a "try" lipstick as I didn't see myself wearing it out, but when I put it on, I really liked what I saw. I'm not much of a pink girl but this goes on very sheer and wearable. It looks daunting in the tube, but it's much more natural on and complements my pale skin well. The consistency has got me interested in trying other Three Custom Color Specialists lipsticks as it is very moisturizing and doesn't cake up on my always dry lips. I'm not saying these brights are for everyone, but if you're feeling a little adventurous, these are worth a look.

CitySlicker Says:

When I saw Limelight in the pot, my thoughts ran back to the 80’s videos. Limelight is a shockingly bright fuchsia color. I was thinking “No way, Jose”. I looked at it in the pot for a few days before I actually applied. My initial thought was it feels more like a lip balm going on. It’s smooth and rolls over my lips. It’s completely comfortable and feels like I am wearing nothing. I was stunned at the look on my lips: it’s shiny but not overly shiny – a nice light gloss without the tackiness & the color actually transforms it’s a bright flushed pink on me. I think this is a great summer color too.The color stains my lips a little too so after eating it’s not completely washed away. I still show color. I swear my lips feel healthier since wearing to. I think giving them a break from my usual sticky gloss is a good thing. This is an amazing fun line.

Review - Nixie Cream Foundation

Exceptionally bendable, smooth, emollient-based foundation formulated for professional makeup artists. $18.00

I got this in Ivory 3 when I initially looked at it, there really is nothing Ivory about it, I found that it looks more beige to me. I am usually very pale but thanks to my new airbrushed spray tan, I have color so I was able to use this color due to the tan. If I was going commando with no tan then it would be to dark for me. This is very easy to apply with a foundation brush. OMG, it absorbs into my skin completely and really gives my skin a very even tone. It leaves my skin with a semi matte finish and I don’t really need to finish with a powder so I have been just using a bronzer for a healthy sheen. I NEED to get this in my normal color tone! I really like this foundation. The lightness of it reminds me of Vincent Longo’s Water Canvas and the coverage is like Make Up Forever’s Mat Velvet. I wore it in very humid weather and even though I was sweating to death it didn’t separate from my face, sometimes foundation just drips off in the hot weather this became one with my skin, for the one reason it’s worth looking into! Great product and completely affordable, I encourage all to check their site out!

Hillary says:
I am the absolute palest of the pale, so I had no problem choosing my shade for this foundation. I simply chose the lightest. This foundation is an acne or discoloration haver's dream come true. It provides complete coverage without looking mask-like. I'll admit I was a bit heavy handed when I first put this cream on with a sponge as I don't usually use a sponge, but when I tried it again with a foundation brush and it worked perfectly. Totally covered the redness around my nose and the dark circles under my eyes. I didn't even have to spot cover anything. It's oil and paraben free to boot. This foundation has several ingredients to improve your skin such as squalane, vitamin E and hydrolyzed collagen. As an added bonus, all Nixie products are cruelty free and made in the U.S.A. I've loved every Nixie item I've tried. I highly recommend checking them out.

Sheba says:
I hate to sound like everyone else but this stuff is terrific. I actually did select a very good match for my skin tone - Ivory 7. I applied with a foundation brush as I am now very used to working with them. The results are incredible. You really do not need any concealer with this product and that is a miracle to me. My whole face usually needs concealer here and there. This covers all problem areas without that heavy look. It is a bit more visible than my usual 'mineral' look but it still appears pretty natural. It does give a matte look which I find to be very nice and soft. I seriously think that no one will need to go heavy with this foundation as it covers everything so well with just a light touch. I think I am actually wearing less foundation than when I use my mineral - as I use a concealer and a tone corrector, etc. under the foundation. I simply apply my moisturizer as I always do and go right to this foundation. Foundation is the perfect word or description of this. It leaves you with the perfect foundation/base to build upon. You can then apply your blush, lip, and eye products to a flawless looking face. I believe that I am going to need to make sure I have much more of this miracle worker in my make up arsenal. It is a superior product and it shows and feels like one.

Maria says:
I might as well hop on the Nixie love bandwagon with the caveat that I ordered the wrong shade for my skintone - I'm usually a level two in everything (fair skin/yellow to neutral undertones) but the Natural 2 was a smidge too dark - HOWEVER - that being said, as soon as I tried it, I went right to the Nixie sight to scout around for a foundation shade that would be more of a match -- it's just really, really nice. It gives you a perfect canvas to apply everything else - and everything else goes on as smooth as silk - leaving you with a "hey, I look pretty dang good" face. This is what I wished MAC's Studio Fix was but wasn't - so THERE, MAC - who needs ya?!! I applied with a Lancome Foundation brush - that application method worked really well for me. Last but not least - can you say VERY affordably priced???? Way to go,Nixie.

Three sultry cream liners and a sparkling loose shimmer in one mirrored pot! The liners provide totally customizable eye definition that doesn’t flake, run or tug. This mistake-proof formula is a great tool for the perfect smoky eye, and is ultra-blendable to create a range of eye looks! The loose shimmer provides the finishing touch for wickedly lovely eyes.

If you like the look of a smokey eye (and who doesn't), this is a fool proof all-in-one kit. You can wear one or all of the eyeliners and finish the look with the Metallic Taupe loose eyeshadow. The shadow has the perfect amount of shimmer, is totally wearable and well pigmented. I can see it matching any skin tone. The eyeliner colors are nice and rich and last all day which I don't usually find with cream eyeliners. I call this product fool proof because the colors are so well matched, any combination will provide that smokey eye we all crave now and then. This is a must-have for fall.

Review- Abrione Honey Oatmeal Facial Cleanser

Our Honey Oatmeal is a wonderful facial cleanser and moisturizer for sensitive skin. A soap free cleanser often recommended for delicate or irritated skin. The combination of honey and oatmeal together will help keep your skin clean and smooth. 8 oz. $35


Amanda S. Says:
I have been using the sensitive style facial cleanser and I really like it. My skin tends to get easily freaked out and rashy and all sorts of spastic, this really helped to calm it down. unbelievably a few times after using it, I didn't even need to MOISTURIZE. And that is unbelievable.

Review- Abrione Clean Slate Facial Cleanser Normal to Dry

Not your ordinary facial wash, Clean Slate Facial Cleanser contains bioactive ingredients to help purify, clarify, exfoliate and revitalize your complexion. Aloe vera gel helps prevent inflammation and botanical extracts help brighten and protect the skin from the adverse effects of the environment. $24 for 4 oz., $35 for 8 oz. (bigger sizes available)

This is a really good, thorough cleanser for normal to dry skin. My skin is more on the "dry to dry" side, so I would only use this cleanser in the warm summer months. I really like the herbal smell of this product and the fact that Aloe is the first ingredient it lists. It has AHA's and pineapple extract in it to exfoliate. The cleanser took away any dullness and left my skin feeling clean. I generally use pre-moistened make-up remover cloths at night, but I will be using this every other time I wash. A dime sized amount of this stuff cleans my whole face, so it's definitely worth the money. I'm looking forward to trying other products in the Abrione line.

Review- Nubar Skin Essentials Hand and Body Lotion

Rich with moisturizing, cell regenerating shea butter, antioxidants, essential oils, vitamin A, vitamin C and the healing power of vitamin E. All nubar lotions contain essential oils, vitamins A, Vitamin E and are NON-Paraben. Research into Parabens have found them to be carcinogenic. $4.99 for 2 oz., $10.99 for 8 oz.

So let me get this straight, now lotions are carcinogenic? Well not this one. Right on the heels of discovering that lots of nail polish contained cancer-causing agents, I read this. If you use a lot of lotion, it would be in your body's best interest to buy some Nubar Skin Essentials Hand and Body Lotion. The Hypnotic scent is deliciously fruity and citrusy. And the lotion glides on like a dream. The directions say use a generous amount (don't all directions say that?) but I've found that a little goes a long way. It's a very silky, emollient-rich lotion. Vitamins A & E are great Environmental Protection Factors, something I look for in all my creams and lotions.

Joyce says:

This lotion has shea butter and antioxidants A & E in it. Emotional Balance is the aromatherapy scent I’m using. It has citrus, primarily pink grapefruit to my nose, as its fragrance. I recently read that you can make people think you’re 10 years younger if you wear grapefruit as a scent. I don’t know about that; but I know when I use it, two things happen: there’s a big “Wow! Yum!” factor and it makes my skin feel the way I always hope a lotion will make it feel (but doesn’t always happen). It’s on my desk and is used often during the day, especially if I need a pick-me-up.

Amanda S. Says: I love this lotion, it has such a cute smell and is so relaxing. Like Joyce, I keep this at my desk right here, next to my computer, and put it on when my skin feels dry or even when I just need a little distraction. I too, was totally unaware that lotion could cause cancer, this stuns me and at the same time, I wouldn't put it past some shady ingredients to be unhealthy. So I'm glad to know using this stuff is safe!

Maria says: Sheesh, what isn't carcinogenic these days? This is a yummy citrusy smelling lotion that is perfect for those warm summer days and romantic nights. I like the fact that it's not sticky and is nice and emollient. Chock full of good ingredients just completes the picture. I like to use it right out of the shower to lock in the moisture - and what's this that Joyce is saying about Grapefruit Scent making people think you are 10 years younger? Sounds good to me!!!!

Sheba says:

Too much information can be harmful to a cosmetic junkie!!! I am so sorry to hear that some creams can actually be dangerous -- but how much would you need to use for the bad effects? There are so many things to worry about without scaring people who are addicted to these products. At any rate I can use this product to my hearts content without any fear and that is good as I intend to use it a lot!! I am a complete 'citrus freak' -- cannot get enough of the scent. This one is just heavenly and to know now that I might actually appear to be 10 years younger when using a grapefruit scent only makes it better. See, I do listen to the good news. I might actually run out and buy every grapefruit product there is. Seriousy, I do believe I read that also. It is such a great scent to use as it it clean and fresh and so enjoyable. As Hillary or someone mentioned do NOT pay attention to the directions to be generous. You do not need a lot to get the full wonderful creamy effects. I use just a little dab and it is absorbed relatively quickly and starts working immediately. My skin loves the soft and silky feel. It is a definite plus for your hands and body - you will feel the difference and the fragrance is an added bonus.

Review- Lord and Berry Raincoat Mascara

Raincoat is a quick-drying mascara infused with nourishing active ingredients. LXB complex, to keep eyelashes soft and moisturized and nylon which creates a volumizing yet flexible shield of intense black color that is also 100% waterproof.

One of the perks of writing for this blog is that I basically never have to buy many of the basic items in my makeup bag - mascara being one of my Top Five Desert Island Products.* However, when such time arrives as I do need to start buying my own products again, I think I've found my mascara of choice in Lord & Berry's Raincoat Waterproof Mascara. I honestly can't say enough good things about it. Whatever "nourishing active ingredients" went into this thing are doing awesome work. Case in point: one of my biggest pet peeves about mascara is the "tarantula eyes" phenomenon that occurs with clumping, overly thick mascara. It just looks bad, y'all. But praise the lord and hallelujah, the Raincoat mascara avoids that issue completely. It goes on in a thin layer, but don't think that means you won't get an amazing look. Basically, I look like I'm wearing fake lashes, but not in a draggy way. My lashes are lush, but natural. And yes, it's totally waterproof (thank you, sudden summer storm, for the unexpected experiment). It might be more expensive than your drugstore brands, but I'm willing to pony up a little extra to look awesome.

*see: High Fidelity by Nick Hornby for an explanation of "Top Five Desert Island ____"

Joyce says:

Love at First Flick! This mascara goes on like a feathery dream, really lengthens and lightly curls, and stays on as it promises to. I haven’t experienced any flaking or melting. When I use non-waterproof mascara, I never put it on my lower lashes because it always smudges in summer. Using this one, I get to really emphasize my lashes. I love that summer heat and humidity can be dealt with properly when it comes to keeping my eyes a focal point.

Amanda S. Says:

OK, confession: I'm a mascara snob. I have to have perfect mascara. I rub my eyes, can't seem to get it to wash off right, it smudges all over me, and it gives me panda / raccoon eyes half the time. I have very light colored blue eyes, and I like to have subtle eye make up as to not over-extend my eyes weirdness and intensity. Super long clumpy lashes do the opposite of this. I am so picky about mascara I have been known to ask friends in other countries to send me brands I can't find here. Now... with Raincoat, I found a friend. I wore it all day yesterday, rubbed the heck out of my eyes, and didn't have flakes or smudges stuck all over my eyes and face. It also washed off with plain old almond oil on a cotton ball, and by that I mean, it *all* came off. And it's cheap! Yes, it's only about $15 compared to the $25+ I sometimes embarrassingly find myself dropping on imperfect mascara. I am definitely going to use this tube up.

Deedlejuse says:

Like Amanda S. I am particular with my mascara. I also rub, alot. It takes mere hours for me to look like a raccoon with many, many mascaras. A lot of the brands I have tried, as Amanda S. said, are not cheap and only get one use. For this reason I use one kind of mascara, and never venture into unfamiliar territory. Once used free samples from gift sets and presents from friends fill my bathroom cabinet, none making me feel the need or desire to use them again. And then I get this Raincoat Mascara from Lord & Berry. I tried it, of course, because thats what I'm supposed to do, and honestly I have found my new "THE ONE" mascara. My lashes are soft and feathery, but very full looking, a little bit curly and absolutely beautiful with two strokes of the wand. The problem with my other favorite is it takes a long time to dry, and leaves HUGE lines when you accidentally blink before the mascara has had it's one full minute. Not the case with Raincoat, it is dry the instant after you apply, amazing. AND it lasts through the day and night! 11 hours at work, and it was fine by the time I got home. I was intrigued, so the ultimate test? I wore it to the beach the other day, it not only didn't run all over my face after swimming for a couple of hours but it actually looked good. Yeah, I'm sold.

Maria says: What IS it about mascara that I can never, ever, pass one up? If it's new, I'm on it. If it's praised, I'm on it. If it's on a front aisle in a store, I'm on it....I have tried virtually every company that's ever put out a mascara, no word of a lie....curly wand, straight wand, humungo wand, teeny wand, volumizing, lengthening, tubing, waterproof, water resistent - okay, have I made myself clear here? When I saw this mascara I was naturally all excited b/c I had never heard of it before. Yes, Maria needs to get a life. But cha know what? It's a t-riffic mascara. It's glossy, but not if you blink you'll be covered in mascara glossy - it dries quickly - but your lashes still look glossy - NOT clumpy or dry or brittle or TammyFae-esque. You get nice feathery un-weighed down lashes. The biggest test was the bottom lashes - I usually use a popular tube-brand mascara for bottom lashes because no matter what - I get raccoon eyes. Well, not only did I not get raccoon eyes, but it also gave better definition than the tube brand. I wear contact lenses, so I usually try to stay away from waterproof, but this also came off pretty readily with my DHC Olive Oil cleanser. No tugging or anything. Very nicely played, Lord and Berry. Very nice indeed.

CitySlicker Says:
If you like long thick black lashes this is for you. It goes on very wet to me but does dry quickly. I don’t usually apply to my lower lashes but I did wear this on the top and bottom, my one and only problem is I found the brush applicator to be very long, I did get a smudge on my face from the tip of the brush, just thought I would mention it. It also could be my technique too. My lashes got long, were separated with no clumping action and the mascara wears throughout the day with no flaking. I will be wearing to the tube runs dry... I wanted to mention I wear contacts and it wears well for me not irritation. O, yes I had to use eye makeup remover to get this completely off, it’s a very deep black. I found that with my normal cleanser alone it left some remains.

Review- Smashbox Wicked Lovely Doubletake Lip Color

A double-ended lip pencil and creamy lip color in a soft nude shade that perfectly complements a wicked smoky eye.

Amanda S. Says:

I have the worst of luck with lip pencils, they smudge and bleed on me and clump up on the edges of my lips looking gross like I have some sort of weird fungus! (gross I know). But this product didn't do that I'm very happy to report, and I've used it for a few days straight now and I'm more than pleased with it.

Review- e.l.f. Foundation Brush

Achieve an ultra smooth, poreless finish when applying foundation or tinted moisturizer. All e.l.f. professional makeup brushes have been designed and tested by professional makeup artist Scott Vincent Borba. Each brush has been ergonomically designed to fit perfectly into your hand and facilitate a flawless finish with every application. $1

As it says above, all of the make-up & brushes in the e.l.f. line were designed by the same man that brings you the Borba skin care line sold at stores like Sephora. I know what you're thinking, how can it be good for $1? But it is! It gives me smooth, streak-free coverage and is not too hard or too soft. I also have the e.l.f. flat eyeliner brush and it works perfectly as well. They sell the entire e.l.f. line at certain 99 cent stores in NYC (there is a store locator on their site). The only drawback is if it's not sold near you the shipping is a standard $6.95. There are often promotions on the site and elsewhere online like spend $20 and get free shipping so do a search. As far as the make-up goes, I feel it is good quality, you just get a little less than you would with your average cosmetics. I.e. the pans are smaller and shallower. All e.l.f. products are cruelty-free and they are partners with the Humane Society & PETA. You simply can't get better quality for the price!

Review - Nixie Moisture Rich Lipstick

Moisture Rich Lip: Cream Shades -Luscious creamy long lasting color $14.00

I got this in Cosmic Dancer and it has become my new favorite lippie. It’s a perfect summer shade if you like a pinky nude look. It’s a great blend of pink and lavender. It goes completely smooth and doesn’t dry out my lips. This lipstick delivers a lot of color without feeling heavy, it’s such a light shade and amazingly I get complete coverage. I have been wearing this every day. I am mixing it with a gloss so I can get some summer shine. I will tell you this; it stays on and feels really comfortable. I find that I am applying my gloss more than touching up the lippie. For me this is the most superior product I have tried from the line. I look forward to picking out some shades for the fall. I forgot to mention, I love the super cute compact packaging too!

Review- Skinn Dimitri James Olive & Enzyme Rich Balm Cleanser and Deep Cleansing Mask

Rich in Polyphenols and skin resurfacing enzymes, this water-free, super-rich, night-time cleansing balm is the ultimate skin luxury. First, it dissolves dirt, makeup, daily grime, pollution and dead skin cells. Orange oil works to purify, while a new high-tech bio-engineered enzyme resurfaces for the cleanest skin ever! Apply as a mask for the ultimate super smoothing, resurfacing, deep pore cleansing treatment. $15 for 2 oz., $24 for 4 oz.

I've used this balm as both a cleanser and a deep cleansing mask and I loved it both ways. My favorite thing about this cleanser is the smell. The orange oils make it smell like a Push-up pop from the Good Humor truck when I was a kid. If you don't know what a Push-up is, you haven't lived. As I've mentioned a few hundred times, I have very dry skin. It was totally soothed by this creamy cleanser. In addition to imparting moisture, it removed every trace of dirt and make-up. And the price is awesome. I have the 2 oz. size and from the amount you need to use, I'd say it's going to last me a minimum of 25 washes. The ingredients list is chock full of good for your skin things like calendula, olive oil, orange fruit oil and beta carotene. I recommend this as a PM must for anyone with normal to dry skin.

Joyce says:

After using this product as directed for a week, I was impressed. The texture of my skin has improved. It wasn’t bad before this product, but it definitely improved. My skin is softer, and has a more even appearance. When I put makeup on whether cream, liquid, or mineral powder, my complexion is one I’m pleased to show off. I like the menthol feeling and the tinier grains that exfoliate. I even spread it down my neck and décolletage and saw a difference in those areas, as well. I give Skinn a big thumbs-up.

Review- Mario Badescu Suncare (SPF 30)

Full UVA/UVB daily protection in a lightweight, low oil moisturizer. Contains soothing Aloe Vera Gel and Eucalyptus Oil. A must for Retin A and acne Rx users to prevent discoloration and scarring. $22 for 2 oz.

Mario Badescu does it again! I swear I have not tried one Mario Badescu product that I didn't love, this is no exception. I have tried (& returned) every single SPF 30 moisturizer that they sell at Sephora & none of them were to my liking. This moisturizer doesn't have any of the downfalls of the others I've tried. First of all, it doesn't smell like sunscreen, in fact it has very little scent at all. It speads over your face smoothly and sinks in completely. The MB website says this is for combination and sensitive skin, but I have very dry skin and this delivers enough moisture for me. I know you are supposed to be generous when applying sunscreen but a little bit of this lotion covers my whole face. I'm not sure if you are supposed to, but I even use this as an eye cream with no irritation. I'm so happy I found this moisturizer!

Joyce says:

This has become a “must” before I walk outside. I love the smoothes-and-soothes-the-skin texture; and how did they make a sunscreen smell more like a body lotion than a sun product?! I’ve liked sunscreens I’ve tried (and disliked some), but this one makes me feel more like I’m giving my skin a treat (positive thought-form) as opposed to protecting it from “harmful” stuff (negative thought-form). I feel comfortable getting my Vitamin D while using this product.

Review- Mario Badescu Lip Wax (SPF 15)

Soften and shield your lips from the harsh effects of the sun, cold and wind. Contains a blend of Rose Hips, Palm Oil and Vitamin E Oil for an emollient, creamy lip treatment. Protects against UVA and UVB rays and deliciously fragranced with Black Currant Extract. $7 with SPF, $5 without

I cannot live for more than 15 minutes without lip balm. My dry pucker is in constant need of moisture. My lips have met their new best friend in Mario Badescu Lip Wax (SPF 15). I'm head-over-heels in love! Not only does this wax feel great, not only does it have my beloved sunscreen, but it also lasts and lasts. I put it on before I go to bed & it's still there when I wake up. I'm in awe! My lips haven't been this pampered in a long time. And despite the fact it contains extract of Black Currant (which I would hate if it was strong), it has no taste whatsoever. It's everything I look for in a lip balm- and so affordable. Now I just need one for every room!

Amanda S. Says:

I've been desperate for a collection of lip balms and glosses with sun protection after reading in the news that regular lip gloss lacking in some sort of sunscreen can increase the risk of skin cancer around the mouth and on the lips! Mario Badescu makes great product anyway, so I was more than happy to see this is SPF 15 and wow.... it goes on super smooth and is so silky and great, not waxy or clumpy like some lip waxes can be. I am using this as my primary lip product when I'm out in the sun and need some protection.

Joyce says:

This lovely, lightly scented lip balm has a softer texture than most. It glides over lips rather than drags, and instantly makes lips feel good. The first time I put it on I did what most people do: I pressed and moved my lips together to make sure it was evenly distributed. I remember thinking, “This Feels Really Good,” and wished someone was on hand to kiss. I highly recommend it. Just heed my warming: use of this product may cause you to find someone to use it on in a lip-to-lip encounter.

CitySlicker Says:
I can’t live without out a lip balm; I use it underneath my lippie in the AM and slather it on at night... Upon my first application I notice that this is different than others I have used, this is nothing like Chapstick. It feels very soft to the lips touch. It’s also very light & delivers moisture. My lips feel smooth and relaxed after a day of heavy drying gloss too. I will not be taking this out of the house, therefore no risk of losing a new fav! It also adds enough shine to wear alone and get a pretty shine too!

Deedlejuse says:
Um, I'm sorry but this is the absolute best lip whatever I have ever tried. Literally I don't think that "Lip Wax" is an appropriate name for this lovely stick of wonderfulness. My lips are softer than ever, yes ever, and the initial 5 min. of having it on are like pure bliss. It doesn't have a flavor, which I love because I don't lick my lips when that is the case. The scent, which I think Joyce said was lovely, is. It is so light and unobtrusive, not really minty, but not coconut, I don't know it is just nice. I think that the best part is definitely that it feels like the entire stick is going on to your lips in one fell swipe, but really there is absolutely no difference in the amount there was before you put it on. Please, please, please give your lips the pleasure of this lip wax!

Sheba says:

Me too!!! They should change the name -- lip wax is NOT appropriate. Wax fits Chapstick. 'Lip Silk' might better give customers an idea of what to expect inside this plain little tube. I have had excellent experience with Mario Badescu products and this one is at the top. I was afraid that anything good for your lips and that protects them from the sun might have to be waxy and medicinal. I am so glad I am wrong. This is smoothing something very soothing over your lips that not only looks good -- but it DOES good. You can wear it just for protection and/or for the great shine that it provides. It also has some staying power - even for me -- who wears anything off quite fast. This lasts for a while. I now need to pick up a few more. Once I find something that works this well -- I want one at home, one in the purse, one in the car, and one in the desk at the office. I do not think that is overdoing -- especially with a product like this. Mario Badescu has done it again!!

Maria says: You know, I was never a big fan of lipbalms - every one I had ever tried left me with filmy, waxy, cakey lips that felt coated and yukky.....I was a just-say-no- to lipbalmer....And then things got interesting.....Last year I decided to give them another shot and found a couple that I deemed VERY worthy. Now this little tube of magic from Mario Badescu? I love it. It feels so amazing going on - smoothing, soothing, but with a lovely shine as well - a shine that lasts a VERY long time WITHOUT the sudden urge I had always had in the past to wipe it off b/c it had started to feel waxy and icky on. This does not do that at all. On the contrary - your lips feel pampered and comforted. I kind of have to have it with me at all times. Sheba's right - it SHOULD be called Lip Silk b/c that's how your lips feel with this little wonder on. This is so NOT your mother's Chapstick...what this IS - is a lipbalm you HAVE to try. You'll love it.

Review- Nixie Natural Cleansing & Make-up Remover Cloths

All-in-one face, eye, and lip makeup remover towelettes are 100% oil-free and saturated with a soothing blend of vitamin extracts. Even the most stubborn makeup glides off easily, leaving your face feeling clean and extremely soft without a greasy residue. $9

I feel like I've been having really good luck with the products I've been testing lately. In recent weeks I haven't hit on any duds. These wipes are no exception. They do a wonderful job of removing make-up and dirt and leave your face clean but not at all tight. I usually use Comodynes pre- moistened cloths at night to get my make-up off. When I got the Nixie wipes they said they are natural. There are a few ingredients in them that I question their naturalness, but when you compare them with Comodynes there are like 15 less unpronouncable chemicals in the nixie product. Also they don't sting your eyes when you remove your eye make-up. They leave no residue which is very uncommon in the world of pre-moistened face cleansing towels. They also have very little fragrance (which is more than can be said for Comodynes). The price is a little more than I usually pay, but I'm considering switching due to all the natural ingredients in these wipes like aloe, cucumber, ginseng and vitamin e. These are a definite must for woman with no time on her hands.

Review - Plum Island Soap Orange Ginger Scrub

This body scrub will help remove dead and dry skin cells. Salts are antibacterial, draw out toxins and revitalize skin while giving you a healthy all over glow. Made with pure sweet orange oil, pink mineral clay & ground ginger. The scent alone will uplift your spirits.

This scrub, a delightfully large container of delicious orange and ginger coarse salt, is more salt than anything else. It's a bit drier than other scrubs I've used, which means it doesn't adhere very well to whatever body part (in my case, feet) on which you opt to use it. It was falling all over my tub and leaving semi-terrifying reddish splotches everywhere. Don't worry, they came out easily. The parts I did get to work on my feet really did work, though - the orange oil in the formula softens and scents, and the coarse salt, not for the faint of heart, scrubbed away at my often-tired feet. And the scent - ah, the scent! So lovely. Not too strong, but citrusy and spicy at just the right level. My suggestion: if you're planning on getting this, use it with some sort of glove or application method, as the salt tends to run away easily.

Review - Revlon Skinlights Instant Skin Brightener

Instant luminosity from a pump. This Sheer, oil-free*, Lightweight Skin-Brightening Lotion feels silky smooth. The unique Formula features Light-reflective Crystals and Skin-enhancing minerals to instantly Brighten Skin, Soften flaws and boost Radiance. Wear it over Bare Skin For instant luminosity, or With foundation For luminosity With more coverage Vitamins A, C & E and SPF 15 help improve and protect Skin. No animal, mineral or vegetable oil.

I love this little tube of Illuminator. It is super hard to find, in fact the color I have to use is sold out on Amazon, but you can usually find it in Big Lots, or Job Lots, or whatever your favorite close-out place is, (check your dates ladies!) it is worth the search. I am 24, I have very light blond hair and a fair complexion, I tan somewhat in the summer if I am not super careful. I am also the type of person who just won't do mineral concealer, I don't like to be matte, I like to look pearly, if that makes sense. Not like I'm all oily, just vivid. I am blessed with good skin, I never use concealer it just makes me look too made up, so I love a lotion with just a hint of color, like this one. Do we all remember Glowtion from the mid-nineties??, yeah I loved it. Anyway, I use this Illuminator on top of a lotion in the winter (because I lean towards the dry side) and alone in the summer. It has an SPF 15, I know not awesome, if your really concerned you could use a higher SPF underneath very easily. When I wear it I always get compliments, it just makes you glow. A little goes a long way though, one or two pumps will smooth over your entire face, don't go crazy or you might look like you just went for a very long jog on a humid summer day. You might need to try a few times before you master the effect, but once you do you will look awesome!

Review - Burt's Bees Hair Care Kit

This Hair Care Kit includes a full-size Avocado Butter Pre-Shampoo Hair Treatment, shower cap, a detangling comb & instruction card outlining five simple steps for happy healthy hair!

One Christmas, years ago, I was given this Hair Care Kit by Burt's Bees. Thus began my love affair with Burt's Bees products in general, but this kit specifically has a very tender place in my heart. It comes with an informational guide to easy hair-care naturally. The pointers and tips are great for everyone though: only wash once every other day, always comb with a thick tooth comb when your hair is wet, and etc. You might not need the pointers, but think of your younger friends..... The Avocado Treatment works wonders on my hair at least, I have re-purchased many times since my original tube. I have very dry chemically processed hair so I love every drop of moisture I can get into my hair, pure avocado oil? Yes please! The shower cap is a little dorky, I'm not gonna lie I don't think I ever used it, and yes those are Burt's signature Bees covering the entire thing. The best part of the whole kit, though, is the comb. I would actually buy the kit and toss all of the other stuff just to get comb back if I lost mine, seriously. I have had it for almost five years, who can boast that type of longevity for any hair-care utensil? It is shaped perfectly to fit in your hand, the teeth are the perfect width apart, it doesn't snag or tear your hair no matter how tangly it has become. It is a staple to my daily routine, and I assure you for any of you with longer than shoulder width hair you will thank me if you get one. I promise.

Review- Nutra Luxe Bio Peptide Complex

Helps combat wrinkles for skin 35 years and older. Helps enhance skin's natural repair process. Repairs fine lines and wrinkles. This revolutionary serum is loaded with bio-peptides, Retinol, Hyaluronic acid and more to make your skin look and feel younger, smoother flawless and perfectly healthy into the future. $128



This serum is chock full of so many ingredients which are proven to be good for your skin I don't know where to start. In addition to the ingredients listed above, it contains idebenone which has the highest rating of all compounds in fighting environmental aging factors. I am not an especially wrinkly 35 year old, so I can't attest to the wrinkle fighting properties of this serum, but I will say I don't remember when my skin has looked this good. At first it didn't dawn on me why my skin was looking better (thick I know) but I had been using the Bio-Peptide Complex for about a week when I realized I didn't need as heavy a moisturizer at night (I use it in the morning). I need an additional light moisturizer with this serum as I have extremely dry skin, but for normal to dry skin you won't need an additional moisturizer which is good because the consistency of the serum makes it the perfect make-up base. It feels a little like Dr. Feelgood by Benefit, but Dr. Feelgood doesn't have Vitamin C, Vitamin E or DMAE like Nutra Luxe Bio-Peptide Complex does. If you can afford it, I highly recommend this serum for keeping your skin in tip-top shape.


Joyce says:
My 50s complexion became noticeably smoother within a few days of using this product. I did what the bottle recommended and didn’t use any other moisturizer (morning and night) so I could give it a good opportunity to prove itself. It did. The only thing I noticed is that when I put it on, I needed to let it rest on my skin before applying any powder or non-powder base. If I gave it about five minutes . . . no problem. I realized how much I was enjoying it when I saw that the bottle is “thisclose” to empty and I wished I could snap my fingers and refill it.