Friday, March 30, 2018

L’Oreal Infallible Pro Matte Liquid Lipstick: Review & Swatches

Most people are getting ready to transition their makeup and wardrobe from winter to spring and embrace soft pastels, coral and pinks (it’s pretty much the same color scheme every season). I on the other hand can’t seem to get enough of my favorite vampy pigments. There is just something seductive about rich, sultry lips and L’Oreal’s Pro Matte Collection has so many sexy shades.


Everything about these colors is supposed to be matte (including the packaging) but they do retain a lot of shine before drying. The formula is pretty much everything you’d want in a long-wear liquid lipstick – creamy, adequate moisture, easy application and intense color. Most of these “stay all day” formulas cling to the skin like a lacquer or paint which creates a sticky texture (small price to pay for a perfectly painted pout). The adhesive finish allows you to sip champagne without getting lip prints all over your glass and it doesn’t smear or bleed. Once set, you are supposed to get up to 24 hours of smudge-proof, transfer-proof wear but after a few hours and a couple meals I usually need a touch-up (not a big deal for such pretty color).


The applicator has a sharp point that helps outline and define the lip contour for precision and neatness plus the more layers you apply, the longer your color will last. The lipsticks retail for $11.96 each and if you like deep, vivid hues these will definitely compliment your style.


Left to right: 356 Deeply Disturbed, 368 Matador, 366 Stirred, 362 Plum Bum and 370 Roseblood

Every time a trendy new palette hits the beauty scene there is always a lot of excitement but the L’Oreal Infallible Eye Shadows have been a staple in my collection for years. These intense pigments can go head-to-head with some of the best high-end brands on the market and the individual jars are perfect for travel. What I love most is the quality – the color is intense, buildable, velvety, and shimmery without fading or creasing.


I have a lot of makeup (I may need another house just to store it) but one of my all-time favorite eye shadows is Just Garnet. This color has become my signature shade. Every time I attend a press event or makeup launch other beauty gurus always ask what I’m wearing on my eyes (now you know ladies). If you have the Urban Decay Naked Heat Palette (another one of my faves) this color looks amazing with the burgundy tones.


L’Oreal is available at drugstores nationwide

Thursday, March 29, 2018

L’Occitane Shea Skincare Collection

Although “spring has sprung” winter seems to be lingering on. I actually prefer cool temperatures (give me a crisp fall day over a sweltering heat-wave any day) but I don’t like the effect it has on my skin. This year many brands have embraced the nutritive power of Shea to help us deal with the frigid weather but L’Occitane does it like no other. Visit one of their lavish boutiques and be transported to The South of France – surrounded by fresh, fragrant ingredients.


For this collection L’Occitane has collaborated with women in Africa to ethically harvest high quality Shea. The butter is composed of essential fats and vitamins that have amazing healing and conditioning properties. I’ve been using the Shea Body Cream all season and it has become my favorite treatment for dry skin. The new Melting Butters ($39.00 ea) contain a higher concentration of Shea (70%) and although the formula is thick and ultra- rich, the whipped texture absorbs quickly and leaves skin incredibly supple and hydrated with no greasiness. You can see and feel the difference right away – it instantly alleviates itchiness, tightness and discomfort while rough patches and peeling are smoothed, repaired and softened. Shea also fortifies by supporting elasticity, reducing inflammation and deeply nourishing all day. After shaving or waxing, slather some on your legs for a velvety finish. It also works wonders on dry hands, cuticles, feet and elbows.


Another dynamic duo is the 20% Shea Hand Cream ($32.00) and Hand Scrub ($24.00). These products are always in my bathroom and powder room because they transform dry hands and make my mani look so much cuter! Simply use the scrub for one minute to prime your hands for moisture and exfoliate dead cells. Follow up with the luxurious cream to heal and rejuvenate with no greasiness. As a set these products make a fabulous Mother’s Day gift and the men in your family will appreciate the way it softens hard calluses.


Too tired to remove your makeup after a long day... well suck it up and do so anyway (pimples aren’t cute people). The new 3-in-1 Cleansing Water ($39.99) enriched with Shea helps make the task easier by eliminating stubborn makeup, diminishing excess sebum, hydrating, refreshing and softening. The formula is gentle and soothing with the power of a replenishing toner that clears pores, lifts out dirt and eradicates blemish causing impurities.


After Cleansing, the 5% Shea Face Cream ($34.00) provides the perfect amount of hydration to regenerate the skin as you get your beauty rest and the formula is very gentle. Use it under makeup or mix with sunscreen for a smooth, healthy complexion that feels soft and silky all day. I just gave a jar to my sister (she loves it) and I will be taking mine on vacation to keep my skin balanced.


L’Occitane is available at boutiques nationwide and online at caloccitane.com

Wednesday, March 28, 2018

Lip Smacker Easter Collection & Scavenger Hunt Prizes

Easter is this Sunday and I don’t know about you but I’ve been devouring mini chocolates for a few days now (The Reese’s Peanut Butter Egg is my favorite). I probably won’t get the floppy eared little bunny I saw at the pet store (he is adorable) but a box of candy scented lip balm is pretty good too. If you are planning a fun Easter egg scavenger hunt don’t limit yourself to sugary treats. Kick it up a notch by stashing some of these delicious lip sets around the house and add a few cute toys while you’re at it.


Just in time for spring, the Strawberry Lemonade Set ($5.95) will keep your pout smelling like your favorite seasonal drink and the cup design with straw and ice cubes is totally cute! The creamy formula alleviates dryness and keeps lips supple and hydrated.


Most kids (and adults) love Mickey Mouse so why not plop him on your desk to keep lips soft and smooth. The Tsum Tsum Balms ($5.95) are stackable and the Cheery flavor smells yummy! I actually have one of these bobble-head characters on my coffee table and everyone who visits finds it unusually delightful.


Another calorie-free way to satisfy your sweet-tooth is by applying a few layers of these darling little balms ($5.95). The flavors include Strawberry Soda Pop, Orange Soda and Grape Soda plus each lippie is infused with nourishing oils.


I still enjoy the fruity flavor of Starburst so I’d be happy to find this Egg Trio ($5.95) stashed under a cushion. Although you might want to leave the hunting to the kids, there is no denying that these Cherry, Watermelon and Strawberry balms are old-school Lip Smacker scents that trigger fond childhood memories.


The kids will go crazy for this DIY Easter Egg Duo ($5.95). The stickers can be used to customize the egg topper (decorating without the mess) and the lip balm flavors are Cotton Candy Dream and Marshmallow Cloud...need I saw more?


Lip Smacker is available at drugstores nationwide
Happy Easter!

Tuesday, March 27, 2018

Pixi Beauty Spring 2018 Collection – NEW Lip & Cheek Color

I don’t care how cold it is outside, I’m breaking out my spring makeup and embracing fresh, lightweight color. One brand you can always count on for soft, feminine hues is Pixi. Their new multi-purpose pigments for lips and cheeks are easy to wear and totally on-trend for the season.


Can’t decide between a vibrant lip tint and moisturizing gloss? No problem! The new Gel Tint & Silk Gloss Tubes ($20.00) have you covered. This product is designed to give you a multidimensional effect by applying the tint first (the colors are labelled) and layering it with the shiny gloss. Because Pixi uses a lot of natural ingredients, you can smell the botanicals and feel the cool, refreshing moisture as the pigment glides across the skin. It doesn’t tingle or sting like a plumping formula (thank goodness) but the icy sensation is perfect for a hot summer day. I expected the tint to have more color pay-off but it makes lips look rosy and pouty with lightweight, sheer coverage. The gloss is quite simple – hydrating, clear and reflective. The transformation would be more apparent if the tint was saturated and matte but I like the concept.


The Mattelast Liquid Lip Color ($20.00) has created quite a buzz on social media and color selection ranges from neutral to bright. The formula is smooth, weightless, comfortable and hydrating with buildable intensity. I love the doe-foot applicator for consistent blending and the pointed tip helps outline and define for neatness and precision. The pigment applies a bit liquid-y at first so you have time to layer and fill-in sparse areas before it dries completely matte. Once set, the color clings to the skin and lasts for hours without fading, transfer or smudging. The paraben-free formula also conditions and softens with Rosehip Oil and the flavor tastes a bit like orange.


The Lip Icing ($22.00) is infused with 3D Glimmer, Rosehip and Marula Oil to prevent dryness, replenish and highlight. Wear it alone for alluring luminosity or layer over your favorite lipsticks to accentuate your pout.


The Lip Lift Max Gloss in the coral shade ($20.00) is a peptide infused plumper that nourishes and enhances. Jojoba and chamomile soothe and soften while the mint stimulates to boost fullness.

The MultiBalm Lip & Cheek Sticks ($16.00) add a vibrant pop of color to coordinate your look. Although the finish is described as cream-to-powder, the texture remains quite moist and the buildable pigment provides a soft, natural flush. This is a great multi-use product for travel and the shade selection includes something for all skin tones.


Pixi Beauty is available at Shoppers Drug Mart and online at pixibeauty.ca

Monday, March 26, 2018

Dermablend Flawless Creator Foundation Review & Glow Creator Highlighter

I’ve heard a lot of great things about Dermablend. I know that many women have experienced amazing transformations with their high-pigment foundations and I’ve seen people cover all types of skin conditions including acne, severe scarring and discoloration. On my quest for flawless skin and high quality makeup, I decided to test out some of the brand’s bestsellers in hopes that my results would be just as inspiring.


The most popular product is the Flawless Creator Foundation Drops ($52.00). Unlike most liquid makeup, this formula has a high pigment concentration (33%) for the purest color and incredible coverage. Instead of just masking and concealing problem areas, the foundation evens and balances your skin tone for a flawless, natural finish.

The texture is ultra silky and very fluid with a loose, liquid-y consistency that glides over the skin effortlessly and blends seamlessly for weightless coverage you can barely feel. With just 10 ingredients and no oil or water, skin remains supple and soft with no clogged pores.

The foundation effectively camouflages imperfections, hyperpigmtation, redness, dark areas and a wide variety of color irregularities to improve the appearance of your complexion. It is pleasantly surprising how little product is required to cover the entire face (just a few drops) and once set, it lasts up to 16 hours with no fading, smudging or transfer. The matte finish prevents shine and greasiness with no caking, flaking, dryness or settling into lines.


The buildable pigment is totally customizable so you can mix it into moisturizer, serum, sunscreen or oil to create your desired finish. I also like that there is no oxidation so the color remains constant with no harsh undertones and the vegan blend is free of parabens, fragrance and phthalates.

There are only 10 shades available which was a bit concerning for someone who has a difficult time finding a suitable match but the brand claims that the pigments are “true-to-tone.” I have the shade N48 which isn't an exact match so I mix it with my MAC foundation. I want to put this product through a few more long-wear tests before I totally commit but so far I am very impressed!

The Glow Creator ($36.00) is a liquid highlighter with 20% pigmented pearls that create brilliant luminosity. There are 2 shades available – Gold (the shade featured below) and Pearl for fair skin. This buildable formula is perfect for achieving natural radiance because it blends smoothly and emits a lightweight sheen that makes skin look gorgeous! You can enhance the effect by simply using more but a little goes a long way because of the high color concentration. Mix it into foundation or use it to strobe and illuminate the body for a lustrous summer glow.


The Dermablend Setting Powder ($38.00) is available in both loose and compact formulas that lock-in makeup for up to 16 hours! The mattifiying finish creates a smooth, poreless effect so skin appears fresh and flawless with no transfer, fading or greasiness. The translucent shade is suitable for all skin tones and blends well with no chalkiness. For an instagram-worthy complexion this product is a must!


Dermablend is available online at beautyboutique.ca and dermablend.ca

Friday, March 23, 2018

Dior 2018 Spring Makeup Collection

Spring has officially begun and even though it isn’t warm or sunny yet, pretty makeup makes everything better! I’ve already reviewed the new Dior Lip Glows and amazing Capture Youth Skincare so now it’s time for sexy eyes and radiant skin!


The 5 Couleurs Glow Addict Eye Shadow Palette ($75.00) in the shade Thrill is fittingly named. I am very happy that Dior didn’t go for light pastels or washed-out hues this season because these vivid pigments are so much better! The texture is silky and ultra-lightweight with buildable coverage that creates versatile effects. You can go from sheer and luminous to deep and dramatic by simply layering and there is no creasing.


The deep burgundy, soft champagne, shimmery taupe, pale pink and electric fuchsia are expertly matched to create quick, flawless looks that compliment your complexion and go from day to night. To enhance the intensity, apply over primer. The finishes range from iridescent, satin and matte for contrast and definition. These stylish shades will take you from warm summer evenings and right into fall.

There is nothing better than healthy skin with a lustrous sheen so the Dior Nude Air Luminizer ($75.00) is a makeup bag must! This weightless powder is infused with reflective holographic pigments that merge into the skin to create a seamless veil of glittering light. The beautiful highlight provides an ethereal glow that instantly brightens and enhances dull skin. It looks lovely with the eye shadow palette and a pop of vibrant lipstick.


These products are limited-edition so make sure to pick up your favorites. Dior is available at The Bay, Shoppers Drug Mart, Holt Renfrew and Dior Counters nationwide.

Thursday, March 22, 2018

Moroccan Oil Hair Care – Nourish, Hydrate and Repair

A couple months ago I was considering a trip to Morocco but ended up in Florida working on a tourism article instead. The exotic destination is still on my bucket list because aside from the cultural highlights and delicious cuisine, the continent is known for its bountiful natural ingredients. Moroccan Oil is one of the rarest in the world since it is derived from the Argan Tree which grows sparsely throughout the region. This “liquid gold” is high in fatty acids, Vitamin E and antioxidants which makes it a popular treatment for damaged hair.


Thankfully you don’t have to travel all the way to Africa to get your hands on this precious oil. The Moroccan Hair Collection is readily available and replenishes dull, dry hair that has been exposed to heat styling, dye, chemicals, extreme weather, pollutants and daily stress.

After a cold winter, the Moisture Repair Shampoo ($26.00) and Conditioner ($27.00) resurrects weakened strands with a color safe formula free of sulfate, parabens and phosphate. This collection smells incredible (I can’t stop sniffing my hair) and the shampoo transforms into lavish, bubbly foam that cleanses without stripping or causing brittleness. As you lather-up, the reconstructive protein strengthens keratin to restore elasticity, moisture and shine. It also purifies the scalp without irritation and eliminates product build-up, excess oil and impurities. The Moisture Repair Conditioner has a light, creamy texture that coats each stand and helps detangle. I recommend leaving it on for a few minutes as the shower steam enhances absorption and deeply replenishes.


I continually stress the importance of deep conditioner because it is one of the most important steps for healthy, moisturized hair that grows long and strong. Enriched with proteins, fruit extract, antioxidants, oils and butters, the Restorative Mask ($48.00) and Intense Hydrating Mask ($64.00) prevents split-ends, fortifies damaged strands and deeply nourishes. The formulas are slightly different but the results are quite similar. Both treatments are fragrant, velvety and rich - enveloping each strand and restructuring the cuticles to protect and polish. After use my hair feels incredibly silky, soft and smooth with lots of movement, bounce and body. If you need to rejuvenate dull, rough hair that has been burnt, broken and dried-out, these masks work wonders! After a long winter of repeated flat ironing, the nutritive ingredients helped re-vamp my curls and improved styling results.


Most of us style our hair after washing and conditioning so the Smoothing Lotion ($35.00) is a blow-dry essential for a sleek, glossy finish. Simply apply to damp hair and use your tools as usual. It dramatically improves texture, protects against humidity, tames frizz and leaves hair more manageable.


The Hydrating Styling Cream ($39.99) creates versatile definition while eliminating frizz, flyaways and static. You can use it on damp or dry hair and it keeps natural curls well formed, moisturized and springy.


The Oil Treatment ($49.99) comes in a dark bottle to protect the integrity of the argan so it stays fresh and potent. This luscious formula is lightweight and smells incredible so you can use it to refresh and fragrance your hair. It also speeds up drying time, boosts shine, smooths, controls frizz and detangles. Apply a generous amount prior to shampooing and let it soak in for a couple hours or overnight for a nutritive oil treatment. I apply a small amount to damp hair before blow drying and again after styling for a neat finish with lustrous sheen. Dab it on parched ends to prevent splits and breakage or smooth it on unruly curls for more definition. After flat ironing the treatment keeps my long hair straight, sleek and chic with no poof.


Moroccan Oil Hair Care is available at salons and spas throughout the GTA, Sephora and online at moroccanoil.com/ca.

Wednesday, March 21, 2018

Loreal Colour Rich Shine Lipstick – Review & Swatches

When spring begins and the weather warms up we can finally shed our heavy clothing and opt for bright, cheerful colors. Loreal’s new Colour Riche Shine Lipsticks ($12.99 ea) may be just what your makeup bag needs this season – the pigments are fresh, light and fun with buildable coverage and chic packaging.


These juicy lipsticks are creamy and ultra hydrating to keep lips supple, moist and smooth. Some of the shades provide sheer color payoff while others have medium pigmentation and fuller coverage. The laminated shine formula is infused with natural oils to create the illusion of plumpness and each reflective hue can be intensified by layering.


When you have no time for lip liner or matte formulas, these lipsticks come in handy. The color glides on effortlessly and drenches your pout in glistening gloss without accentuating rough skin or lines. The pigment does transfer and fade with wear but reapplication is easy and there is enough nourishment to replace your lip balm.

Swatches from left to right: 922 Laminated Fuchsia, 924 Enamel Red, 926 Glassy Garnet and 928 Gleaming Plum.

There are 12 vibrant shades in the collection and Loreal is available at drugstores nationwide.

Tuesday, March 20, 2018

Pandora Shine Collection – 18K Gold Plated Jewelry

Last week I spent a glittering evening dining with Pandora to celebrate their new gold plated jewelry collection. The press event was hosted in a few cities simultaneously and together we sipped wine and marveled at the glamorous accessories (I love my job).


My favorite pieces are the trendy stacked rings and bangles but the collection also features elegant necklaces and the brand's iconic charm bracelet. I received my first piece of gold arm-candy (the Shine Smooth Bracelet $195.00) with a sparkling crystal pendant ($110.00)...thanks Pandora!


Photo credit: thefashionwithstyle.com

On my birthday (last Christmas Eve) I received a Pandora gift card so I stopped at the mall after the event (already wearing my new gold bling) and picked up the Sparkling Love Heart Ring ($80.00). The center stone is stunning and the shine is incredible! 


Since Mother’s Day is just around the corner, you might want to check out the new collection before the lines start to form. Visit the website by clicking HERE.

Monday, March 19, 2018

Avon Limited-Edition Skin So Soft Comforting Shea Collection

Spring is in the air so it’s time to rejuvenate dry winter skin with a blast of nourishing moisture. One of the most hydrating ingredients on the market is Shea – known for its incredible ability to condition, comfort and deeply moisturize. Avon’s decadent new collection will leave you supple, smooth and refreshed from head-to-toe with a pampering selection of oils, butters, shower creams and lotions at affordable prices.


The Body Wash ($10.00) is creamy and fragrant to help you relax and foam away pollutants, impurities and oil after a long day. I drizzle it over my mesh bath pouf and create a bubbly lather that cleanses without leaving skin dry, tight or stripped. There is also a large bottle of Shea Bath Oil available if you crave an indulgent soak.


The Body Lotion ($10.00) smells delicious without being too sweet and the lightweight, luscious texture seeps in quickly so skin feels soft and silky with no greasiness. If they removed the parabens it would be even better but for dry, flaky skin it works! The cream is also available in a Body Butter formula ($9.00) if you prefer something richer.


The driest part of my body is probably my hands because I wash them frequently and often forget my gloves. The Shea Hand Cream comes in a large tube for just $6.00 and instantly softens and soothes brittle nails, damaged cuticles and rough skin. I keep it at my desk to moisturize throughout the day and it is perfect for your guest bathroom or powder room.


With Mother’s Day coming up these products are great for care packages and gift baskets! Avon is available online at avon.ca or through independent sales representatives.

Sunday, March 18, 2018

Roasted Cheesy Cauliflower Recipe

It’s Sunday evening, I don’t want to spend a lot of time preparing dinner and I’ve had a cauliflower sitting in the fridge for a few days. Thankfully I caught this morning’s episode of Barefoot Contessa which inspired me to try something different and healthy (win, win).

Cauliflower has been gaining popularity recently and people are even using it to make pizza dough! This brain-y looking veggie is one of my favorites because the mild flavor makes it easy to season in a variety of delicious ways. It is also high in vitamin C and fiber with very few calories.

Instead of steaming my cauliflower and devouring it ravenously like I usually do, I roasted it. This method gives the florets a dry, crispy texture instead of that squidgy, wetness is usually has.


1. Cut the stem off, slice from the bottom and pull apart the florets.
2. Wash thoroughly.
3. Dry cauliflower with paper towel and lay on a baking tray covered in parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle with your favorite seasonings – I used garlic powder, Mrs Dash Original (unsalted), seasoning salt (instead of regular salt), onion powder and black pepper.
5. Drizzle with Olive Oil and mix.
6. Bake for about 25 mins at 350˚ or until cauliflower is crispy and cooked to perfection.
7. Remove tray from oven and sprinkle with your favorite cheese (I used cheddar).
8. Pop it back in and bake until cheese is melted. I went light on the cheese to cut calories but feel free to go crazy.
9. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve right away (it tastes better hot).

Voila – a yummy side dish that your family will love! Cheese makes everything better.

Friday, March 16, 2018

Too Faced Chocolate Gold Collection Review

Like most women I love chocolate and gold has been my go-to shade since I started wearing makeup so naturally I needed this collection. The Chocolate Gold Palette ($49.99) is the star of the show featuring dramatic shades that will inspire you to create magnificent looks and strut around like a total diva. For even more glam, the shimmery loose pigment, warm bronzer and Liquefied Gold Gloss will make you gleam like a queen.


I always talk about how scrumptious Too Faced products smell and this gorgeous palette is extra cocoa-y (your stomach may rumble with cravings but your eyes will look sexy). The color scheme is right up my alley featuring a variety of gold tones, bright pink, deep purple, icy blue, sparkling green, silver and more. The shadows are extremely vivid, ranging from shimmer to metallic with amped-up radiance but there are a few neutral mattes for crease definition, highlighting and blending.


The packaging is flashy and decadent with melted gold drizzled over a chocolate bar. Too Faced is known to dazzle us with prettiness and this palette makes your vanity look so much cooler.


The shadows have a rich, velvety texture for smooth application, easy blending and fantastic saturation. You can layer to enhance the intensity but the colors are highly pigmented, long-lasting and flattering on all skin tones. The formula is infused with real gold to create a high-shine, foiled finish that enhances the eyes with lustrous sparkle. Like most of my Too Faced palettes, the quality is top-notch and I have no problem with creasing or fading.


I wore the vivid pink to a recent media event and everyone loved it! The vibrant colors add pizzazz to your everyday looks and I’m not afraid to rock these shades anytime, anywhere. With a little crease sculpting you can pull these off day or night and gold is an elegant hue that never goes out of style.


The Pure Gold Loose Glitter ($17.00) gives you that Goddess glow from head-to-toe. It is also infused with real gold and can be used on the face and body. I have a love-hate relationship with glitter because it looks amazing but gets everywhere! This sparkly dust isn’t so bad, you can contain the particles by using fluid application strokes to attain concentrated highlight. Use a lot and you will gleam like the sun but make sure to layer over primer to prevent transfer and scatter (it doesn’t adhere very well otherwise).


The Best Selling Chocolate Matte Soleil Bronzer ($30.00) smells delicious and provides a medium tan with buildable color. 


There are a few different bronzers in this collection including a dark matte finish and a gold shimmer powder which is more my style. This shade is too light for my skin tone but the texture is smooth and silky.


The Melted Gold Liquefied Lip gloss ($21.00) reminds me of Midas – everything it touches turns to gold! This ultra shimmery, high impact color drenches lips in layers of glittering shine. The formula is supple, highly pigmented and hydrating with smooth, comfortable glitter and no streaking. The effect is eye-catching but a tad eccentric for everyday wear. I’m saving it for a fun party or glitzy event where it is perfectly acceptable to dip your lips in gold.


Too Faced is available at Sephora, Ulta Beauty and online at toofaced.com
Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...