Maybelline Total Temptation Makeup Collection: Review & Swatches

I’ve been using Maybelline since I started wearing makeup and over the years their beautiful shadows, trendy lipsticks and lengthening mascaras have helped me perfect my technique. I'm always excited when the brand reveals something new and this January Total Temptation debuted on drugstore shelves. The radiant collection is all about soft, wearable shades that create quick, simple looks to compliment all complexions.

The “hero of the family” is the mascara but being more of an eye shadow girl I had to try the palette first. The shades are expertly coordinated with a variety of finishes that accentuate and define. The radiant shimmers contrast nicely with the soft mattes and pops of glitter add glamorous sparkle for a night out. The texture is quite impressive – the pigments are light and velvety for effortless blending and long-wear without creasing. I always suggest using primer to enhance saturation and longevity but even without one the color payoff is good.

On the golden/neutral side there are champagne tones offset by coral and brown to help shape the eye contour. The highlighter is frosty and illuminating with a full-coverage finish very similar to the eye shadow formula.

The other side of the palette features pink and soft mauve tones which I love! The black is great for creating a smokey effect but the glitter shade (second from the top) has a sheer base. I prefer to use the highlighter on my lids for more coverage but the colors are beautiful! I hope Mayeblline extends this collection to include even more shades because I would love some jewel tones. The palette retails for $17.99 and is suitable for travel.

The Total Temptation Mascara ($11.99) is all about increasing volume, separation and length. The whipped pigment is infused with coconut extract to preserve, protect and moisturize. Traditional waterproof mascaras tend to dry down and bind hair together resulting in lash loss but this washable formula can be removed with just water. You can also apply several layers without much clumping and the jet black color thickens and elongates for a lovely fanned out effect. I think this may be one of my favorite Maybelline mascaras and it smells delicious!

The Total Temptation Brow Definer ($11.99) comes with a retractable crayon and a small spoolie brush. The Deep Brown shade is perfect for my dark hair and I love the shape and angle of the point for creating sharp lines and definition. At first the pigment is a bit dry so you may have to do a few swipes on the back of your hand before it starts gliding smoothly. The pencil fills-in sparse areas for a thicker look and lasts all day without smudging.

The Total Temptation Collection is available at drugstores nationwide
(PR samples provided for review)