NEW Makeup from Hard Candy!

I know it must seem like I feature and test a bazillion different brands here at Diary of a Trendaholic but I like to keep you informed on all the latest and greatest makeup trends. Amidst all the swatching and new launches, Hard Candy has somehow eluded me until now. I tried the products years ago with much success but recently I’ve rediscovered their stylish pigments and popular formulas. As far as drugstore brands go, the quality is good and the prices are affordable... what more could a beauty junkie ask for?!

Every girl craves a bright, youthful complexion for summer - the kind of skin that seems to glow from within for a healthy flush. The new Cheeky Tints are water-light gel blushes that provide a sheer wash of beautiful color. The formula has a wet, creamy consistency that spreads and blends well. Although it doesn’t dry instantly, once it does the stain is there to stay and the color lasts all day! Since the gel is not highly pigmented, the finish is very soft and natural, perfect for the season! The blush is available in 6 shades from nude, corals and pink, they retail for $7.98 ea.

To achieve a flawless finish it’s a good idea to start with a base. The Pore-Defense Primer Serum instantly tightens pores and smooths skin with a gentle formula. It contains active astringents that absorb excess oil for a shine-free finish and micro-fine powders blur lines and corrects color. Initially the primer applies very creamy, light and refreshing plus it is surprisingly hydrating. Although it doesn’t provide a silicone texture of ultra smoothness, it does improve makeup application. Pore-Defense is also free of greasy oils and drying alcohol, it retails for $9.98.

One of my favorite products from the collection is the new Velvet Mousse Matte Lip Color which come in cute, decorative tins. The color applies creamy for easy application and precision but it eventually dries semi-matte with stunning full-coverage color! Some of the creaminess and shine may remain if you layer heavier but I find the moistness quite comfortable. If you do want more of a matte finish, simply dab off a bit of shine and you’ll be left with a vivid stain. The texture adheres well for long lasting color and although it isn’t super hydrating, it doesn’t make lips feel parched either. The shade I have is a bright, classic red called Tulip but they are also available in a range of nude, pink and purple tones that retail for $7.98 ea.

I know bright, cheerful shades are popular for the season but that doesn’t mean you can’t unleash your vampy side for a night on the town. The All Glossed Up Hydrating Lip Stain in the shade Black Cherry is a dark, seductive plum that provides juicy, pouty color! Formulated with tropical butters, nourishing oils and smooth powders, the stain blurs fine lines and softens lips. I also love that the pencil is retractable so no sharpening is required! The slick, glossy texture glides on effortlessly and drenches lip in layers of moisture, shine and sheer color. There are 3 deep hues and 2 pinks available, they retail for $5.98 ea.

Last but not least is a lip product that is a bit unconventional. I love color but this is a little daring even more me! The Fierce Effects Lip Gloss is available in blue, pink, red, plum, purple and more and the finishes range from sheer to intense. The shade I have (So Fresh) is a minty blue, and if that wasn’t bold enough it also contains shimmer! The texture is nice and creamy but I did have to blend well to achieve consistent coverage. I don’t know when I’ll be brave enough to wear this snow queen, frozen themed shade out in public but when an occasion arises I might give it a try! The gloss retails for $5.98 ea.

You can find Hard Candy Cosmetics exclusively at Walmart or at hardcandy.com