Mary Kay Holiday 2022 Gift Guide

The elves at Mary Kay Canada left a surprise under my tree again this year and like always, the gifts are fabulous!

The Warm Hues Eyeshadow Palette ($45) is my personal fave (you might want to grab one for yourself too). These shades transition from fall to winter and from day to night effortlessly!

There are 6 stunning pigments that range from shimmering champagne and purple garnet to bronze and peachy rose gold. The velvety matte hues are perfect for defining the crease and I love the silky texture and buildable color payoff – the quality is excellent! 

Mary Kay’s Hydrating Sheet Masks ($45) are a winter essential and there are eight in each box so you can pop one in everyone’s stocking.

Unlike regular masks, these are separated into two compartments – one side has the cellulose mask and the other side has gel essence. When you’re ready to use it, simply fold (as directed on the box) and break the seal between the two sides to push the serum into the mask. Keeping them separate like this ensures that your mask won’t dry out in the package and will remain fresh. It also guarantees that the mask is infused with a lot more hydrating botanical serum so skin looks soft, supple, plump and renewed. I can actually use each one twice! 

The Satin Hands Pampering Set ($55) makes a wonderful gift for everyone on your list including family, friends, teachers, co-workers and neighbors. I keep these products in my bathroom and guest bathroom – they are always a hit!

The set comes with: 

*Satin Smoothie Refreshing Shea Scrub - which doubles as hand wash. 

*Satin Hands Refreshing Softener – a thick, healing balm. 

*Nourishing Shea Hand Cream – to rejuvenate and soften. 

*Pampering Gloves – use these after applying the balm or cream. They lock in moisture and provide a healing treatment, especially overnight. 

I absolutely LOVE the Vinyl Shine Liquid Lip Sets ($22). There are two to choose from:

*Neutral - contains a deep brown and pink-neutral. 

*Bold - comes with vivid berry and luminous red. 

These bold, high pigment shades apply like liquid lipstick with beautiful shine. They are saturated, comfortable and gorgeous!

The Silkening Dry Oil ($24) creates a subtle luminous sheen and lightly perfumes the body with a delicate mood-boosting scent. The main accords are peony, fresh cut stems, bergamot, white tea, oak and water lily – very fresh and feminine. Apply some after a warm shower and smell amazing all day!

The Mint Bliss Energizing Lotion ($16) helps revive tired feet and legs with a refreshing cool mint formula. It is perfect for days when your feet are on the go and you can even apply it over sheer hosiery. 

For the makeup lovers on your list, Mary Kay also has a nice collection of Semi-Shine Gel Lipsticks ($21 ea). The cushiony soft formula delivers stunning color and luminous shine without drying out lips. 

*Shades seen here: Subdued Nude and Downtown Brown.

The Highlight Brush and Contour Sponge Set ($18) is another great stocking stuffer. These mini makeup tools are perfect for travel and touch-ups on the go.

Let’s not forget about the guys on your list. The Foaming Beard Wash ($21) pampers and refreshes facial hair with a plush cleansing formula and invigorating peppermint.

You can find all these gifts and more at marykay.ca

Mary Kay Collagen and Antioxidant Daily Supplements - For Healthy Skin and Hair

Aging is a natural, beautiful process but environmental and lifestyle factors play a key role in the changes our bodies go through. 

Collagen is the most abundant form of protein in the body, providing strength and structure for connective tissue. It is essential to the healthy functioning of skin, blood vessels, muscle, tendon, ligaments, bone and the digestive system.

Unfortunately, collagen production peaks in our early 20’s and declines as we age. Gradual and constant collagen loss eventually weakens elastin and may lead to wrinkles, loss of firmness, sagging, dryness and even weak joints. Some studies suggest that taking collagen supplements can repair and regenerate connective tissue which has incredible anti-aging effects on the skin. 

Mary Kay’s new Marine Collagen ($60) is gluten-free and has no artificial flavors. The powder is easy to incorporate into your daily routine by mixing it in smoothies, juice or other beverages. I like using a blender so the texture is smooth but it tastes pretty good and the scent reminds me of sweet berries with a hint of vanilla. The “marine” part of the formula is hidden quite well although I can detect a faint trace of it.

Each serving contains 3 g of collagen and the benefits include decreased visibility of wrinkles, lines and crows feet, facial toning, firmness, resiliency and radiance. It is recommended that you take the supplement daily or every other day for at least 5 months to see visible results. 

Mary Kay’s Antioxidant Capsules ($40) are formulated to protect the skin from free radicals and daily stressors. The gluten-free, vegetarian pills contain botanical antioxidants, resveratrol, grape seed extract, zinc and vitamins A, C and E.

When combined with your daily skincare routine, these supplements help maintain the health and vitality of your skin and body. You’ll look and feel great! For orders and information, visit marykay.ca. 

 **Consult a physician before taking any vitamins or supplements.

Mary Kay 2021 Fall/Winter Collection & Holiday Gift Guide

Have you started your Christmas shopping yet? I have, and this year Mary Kay has made gift giving simple with their beautiful holiday sets for men and women.

Let’s begin with the trendy limited-edition fall line-up featuring stunning jewel tones and glamorous sparkle. 

The Shimmer Liquid Eyeshadow ($18 ea) infused with color-intense metallic pearl pigments is perfect for creating quick show-stopping looks with the swipe of a wand. Wear them alone or layered over eyeshadow for a gorgeous multidimensional effect. 

There are 2 shades available – Amethyst (iridescent purple-pink shimmer with a silver base) and Graphite (deep grey with silver shimmer). The texture is smooth, creamy and flexible for comfort and durability. Allow the pigment to dry and set before completing your look. It stays in place all day with no fading and very little fallout.

The Highlighters ($18 ea) have a bright, frosty finish that is quite festive and the texture is soft and silky for grit-free application. I love the light reflecting particles - they create a soft luminous glow with buildable coverage.

The two shades available are: Canary Diamond (brilliant champagne) and Rose Sapphire. The magnetic interchangeable case is sold separately for $21.

I'm obsessed with the new Sparkle Lipsticks ($21 ea). They look like they’ve been encrusted with glittering diamonds but the smooth formula has no chunky particles.

Ruby is a sexy burgundy/garnet hue and Sunstone is a bright shimmery gold that can be worn alone or applied on top of your favorite shades.

If you prefer a subtle hint of color with extra hydration, the Intuitive pH Lip Balms ($21) are a must this winter. Formulated with nourishing oils, these buttery, comfortable balms adjust to the natural color of your lips so they look different on everyone. The translucent hue transforms into a bright pink while the deep berry appears burgundy.

The Nail Polish ($12) this year is also metallic and prismatic. Emerald looks more like a frosty blue and Rose Quartz is a soft pink with silver shimmer. The formula is rich and application is a breeze. 

When you have such pretty makeup, you will want to keep it in something cute. The Precious Gems Trend Collection Bag ($10) is the perfect size for all your essentials. Pop it in your purse or travel bag and you’re good to go.

I have been using the Mary Kay Lash Love Fanorama Mascara ($21) all year! The applicator grips, coats, combs, lifts, separates and fans your lashes so they look long, thick and fluttery without clumps. It is great for everyday wear and makes a wonderful stocking stuffer for the makeup lovers on your list.

Some of my favorite body products released this season are the new Mary Kay Lotions and Shower Gels ($18 ea). If you want to smell incredible and have baby soft skin this winter, you should definitely try these! 

The Berry & Vanilla scent is to die for! The shower gel lathers into foamy, fragrant bubbles that cleanse without stripping and the lush cream provides long-lasting hydration. Apple & Almond smells good too but it seems to contain more perfume.

Speaking of pampering winter nights, the Special-Edition Pink Clay Mask ($20) is great for a relaxing spa day. Infused with plumeria extract, minerals and antioxidants, the clay exfoliates, protects against free radicals, smooths, softens and renews to boost your natural glow.

Mary Kay has also released trendy gift sets that your friends, family and co-workers are sure to love! 

Spoil the special men in your life with the Skin Savers to the Rescue Bundle ($65). Packed in a grey monochrome travel pouch, this exclusive set includes the MK Men Advanced Night Cream and Facial Hydrator with SPF 30.

The guys in my family love cologne so I will be popping the Men’s Fragrance Set ($39) into a few stockings this year. The box contains 3 scents: Cityscape, MK High Intensity and Intensity Sport. The slender glass bottles are ideal for travel.

There is also a lovely Fragrance Set for Women ($39) containing: Live Fearlessly, Love Fearlessly and Dream Fearlessly Eau de Parfum. These timeless, universal scents smell fabulous and fit in any purse.

The new Mary Kay Matte + Shine Lip Sets ($30) are exactly what I want in my stocking this year and they are great for Secret Santa. Each set includes a highly pigmented Matte Liquid Lipstick and a lustrous oil so you can transform your look from opaque to ultra shiny. The shades available are Rose and Cinnamon.

Another gift that my loved ones receive every year is the bestselling Mary Kay Satin Hands Pampering Set ($51). 

I keep the Citrus Rose Refining Shea Scrub in all my bathrooms because it cleanses, exfoliates and smooths rough hands. Follow up with the Nourishing Shea Hand Cream to treat ragged cuticles and dryness or use my husband’s fave –the Fragrance-free Protecting Softener which has a thick balm consistency.

One of my favorite deals of the season is the MK Vitamin C + E Serum ($67.00). It comes with a FREE rose quartz facial roller to enhance the anti-aging benefits of your skincare. 

The serum is enriched with powerful antioxidants to brighten, firm, plump and enhance radiance. It makes a great addition to your daily routine.

These products and gifts are available online at marykay.ca. 

 Happy Holidays!

Mary Kay Clinical Solutions Skincare | Spring/Summer 2021 Beauty

It is never too early to start an anti-aging routine. Preventative care is always more effective than treating the signs once they appear, but no matter what your age or skin type, Mary Kay’s new Clinical Solutions will help you fight aging head-on.

Thanks to good genes or good skincare, I don’t have visible signs of aging (lines, wrinkles, crowsfeet etc) and I’d like to keep it that way with products that actually work. 

The Retinol 0.5 Serum ($85.00) stimulates surface cell renewal and supports collagen and elastin. It also treats wrinkles, loss of facial firmness, discoloration and fine lines so your profile appears smooth, lifted and toned. One pea-size pump before bed is all it takes to start seeing results. It absorbs instantly with no residue and I love the radiant sheen.

Pair the serum with the Calm + Restore Facial Milk ($60.00) formulated for retinol treated skin. It contains a blend of coconut, jojoba, safflower, olive oil and fatty acids that nourish, hydrate and soothe should you experience any sensitivity. You can also buy these products as a set for $135.00 (a savings of $10). 

Keep in mind that your skin may be more reactive to UV while using a retinol treatment so it is important to apply sunscreen before going out. 

The MK Limited-Edition Lip Kits ($32.00 ea) are available in two exclusive new shades – Nude and Pink. They come with a full-size lipstick and matching lip liner that compliment a wide variety of skin tones.

The Pink-fuchsia is perfect for summer! It is bright, bold and vibrant with a creamy texture and intense full-coverage saturation. I love the supple formula! The Nude is light and neutral with a pretty sheen. 

Mary Kay has some of the cutest accessories and the Special-Edition Travel Color Bag ($18.00) is no exception. It is great for road trips and I love that you can see all the goodies inside. I use it for makeup, skincare and sometimes jewelry.

The Limited-Edition If You Believe Eau de Toilette is a steal for just $39.00 and with Mother’s Day right around the corner, it makes a wonderful gift! The main accords are bergamot, pink muglet and sandalwood oil also known as lily of the valley. The spicy, fruity, floral and woodsy notes create a unique, feminine scent.

To help you get your glow on MK has released a Special-Edition Subtle Tanning Lotion ($22.00). The lightweight, non-greasy cream glides on evenly without rubbing off or staining. I don’t need or use self-tanner but if you do, this may be a good option.

The Replenishing After-Sun Gel ($18.00) will be in my beach and travel bag all season...even if we can only go on road trips during the pandemic. It contains a soothing blend of botanicals and antioxidants that moisturize, cool and refresh parched skin after a long day in the sun. I prefer using products like this during warmer months because they are lightweight and don’t make me sweaty. 

You can find all these items and more at marykay.ca

NEW Mary Kay Unlimited Lip Gloss | Review & Swatches

Now that face masks are mandatory in public spaces, I’ve been wearing no-fuss, lightweight lip color that is moisturizing, comfortable and easy to reapply. In the heat and humidity I prefer simple gloss with a pop vibrancy – something I can whip out between meetings to perk up my complexion as I make my way around the city.

Mary Kay’s new Unlimited Gloss ($18 ea) is available in 14 high-shine, hydrating shades that range from nude, pink, red, and deep purple. They also come in three finishes – cream, pearl and shimmer.

Although the pigments are sheer, you can add a couple extra layers to enhance the color. The glistening wet effect makes lips appear plump, smooth, full and alluring.

It takes a lot for lip gloss to impress me but I absolutely love the cushiony formula – it is super plush and juicy! It feels like a silky lip treatment – hydrating and nourishing without any stickiness or drag.

The doe foot applicator is much more flexible than your average wand. It glides around the lip contour with ease – filling in edges and corners.

Now let’s talk more about shade selection because there are quite a few neutrals.

In the nude category most of the glosses have a pink or flesh tone base so there is something for all complexions. (My neutral match is Unique Mauve).

(My favorite shades will be marked with a star*)

Left to right: Fancy Nancy (shimmer), Pink Ballerina (pearl), *Unique Mauve (cream), Nude Blush (cream) and *Sheer Illusion (pink-gold shimmer).

I like the creams and iridescent pearls but a couple of the shimmers (particularly Fancy Nancy and Beach Bronze) are a tad difficult to remove (glitter particles are always a pain in the butt).

I wish there were more bright hues because they tend to be my favorite, especially during the summer.

Despite the sheer coverage, these shades are bold and vibrant.

*Evening Berry (pearl), *Berry Delight (pearl), *Iconic Red (cream), *Pink Fusion (Cream)

There is also a range of brown neutrals to choose from. The bronze (Copper Aura) and shimmery gold (Beach Bronze) are quite similar (I don’t think we needed both) but chocolaty colors are always trendy in autumn and they look beautiful on deep skin tones.

Copper Aura (shimmer), Beach Bronze (shimmer), Soft Nude (pearl), *Tawny Nude (cream) and Chocolate Nude (cream).

If you’re looking for amazing go-to gloss, you should definitely try these.

MK has also released new Cream Blush Duo Sticks and Foil Eye Shadows. The blush packaging is perfect for travel and the colors are beautiful.

Mauve and Shimmer provides contour, color and definition all-in-one. The pigment is deep (suitable for medium to dark skin tones) and the gold highlighter is stunning! It glides on soft, lightweight and creamy with a natural, seamless finish that lasts all day. Pink and Glimmer has a touch of mauve with a light gold highlighter. It might look best on fair to medium complexions.

The Foil Shadows are bright and dramatic with a dazzling finish and smooth velvety texture. The particles are not chunky or messy but I still recommend using a tacky base or glitter primer immediately before application so the pigment adheres well, stays put and remains vibrant. 

Mary Kay is available online at marykay.ca and through independent consultants.

Mary Kay Spring 2020 Collection

We’ve all had a pretty unusual summer but as the city begins to recuperate from the pandemic, it is finally time for beauty junkies everywhere to break out their new makeup.

We might not be able to attend parties or go to the theater just yet, but we can enjoy provincial parks and do a little shopping.

Mary Kay’s Spring Collection reminds me of what the season is all about – bright pouty lips, shimmery shadow and deep earthy bronzers that transform us into glowing goddesses.

The Semi-Matte Gel Lipsticks ($21) are available in a variety of gorgeous shades but these four are brand new! The silky, nourishing formula delivers the perfect amount of lightweight, vibrant color in a single swipe and keeps lips hydrated for hours. My favorite is Red Stileto because it looks amazing with gold shadow and dramatic winged liner. I love the intense, full-coverage saturation and creamy, no-fuss application.

The Limited-Edition Unearthed Illuminating Bronzers ($22 ea) have a warm base and glow-inducing highlighter to create a multidimensional finish. For sunkissed radiance, sweep the powder just below the cheekbones or all over the face to accentuate and define.

The bronzers look beautiful in the Limited-Edition Unearthed Magnetic Palette – sold separately for $21.

On hot summer days, liquid eye shadow stays exactly where you put it and Mary Kay’s luminous new shades are packed with pigment. They look fabulous with or without a base but I use the MK waterproof primer ($18.00) to smooth the area and prolong wear.

After blending your crease shades to perfection, use the doe foot applicator to layer the liquid onto your lids and wait for it to dry before finishing your look with eyeliner and mascara.

If you prefer pressed pigment, check out the Chromafusion singles ($9 each) and customize your own refillable palette!

I never leave home without applying sultry black liner. It makes my eyes appear larger and improves the overall look of my eye shadow. Recently I’ve been using Mary Kay’s Waterproof Pen ($20) with intense black pigment. It is perfect for precise, neat lines and the no-drip felt tip is easy to use.

Don’t forget to accentuate your lashes with a few coats of mascara. I like to layer Lash Love Fanorama ($21) with Lash Love Waterproof ($21). Individually they provide a natural effect (not very voluminous or dramatic) but together they elongate and thicken.

I’m somewhat of a lip balm addict (I have tubes stashed everywhere) so it’s no surprise that I love Mary Kay’s Intuitive pH Balm ($21) and part of the proceeds to go charity. When you swipe on the creamy color (berry and translucent), the reactive ingredients adjust to the color of your lips creating a unique hue. On me the clear balm became a natural pink and the berry deepens into a sheer juicy blackberry. The hydrating formula keeps lips soft, smooth and healthy with a pop of plumping radiance.

Don’t forget to pamper your skin after spending time outdoors (your makeup won’t look as good if you don’t). I recommend the Microdermabrasion Plus Set ($60) which comes with an advanced exfoliator to remove dead cells and a Pore Minimizing Serum to smooth skin texture and reduce redness.

For more information visit marykay.ca or contact an independent consultant.

Mary Kay Naturally Skincare Collection

In world filled with harmful chemicals and artificial ingredients, many of us are more aware of what we put in and on our bodies. We eat well, exercise and try to stay hydrated while living a balanced lifestyle.

Mary Kay recognizes the importance of clean, eco-certified skincare which is why their new collection is inspired by nature. The naturally derived formulas are free of parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrance, dyes and SLS/SLES to keep your complexion healthy.

Start with the Purifying Cleanser ($29.00) infused with cornflower water, vitamin E and glycerin to calm, soothe, condition and protect against environmental aggressors. Apply the milky cream on a cotton pad or makeup wipe and massage it in to emulsify foundation and impurities before rinsing. The formula is 99.49% natural and safe for sensitive skin.

When most of the oil and makeup has been removed, double-cleanse by slathering your face in more Purifying Cleanser and use Mary Kay’s rechargeable Skinvigorate Sonic Brush ($85.00). In just 60 seconds the powerful vibrations abolish dirt and pollutants trapped deep within pores and you can switch between 3 settings to customize your beauty routine.

For a clear complexion it is important to remove dull cells and Mary Kay’s Exfoliating Powder ($39.00) gently resurfaces with a blend of citric acid, hydrogenated castor oil and rice starch. Simply mix the powder with water, add a couple drops of MK Nourishing Oil (optional) and massage in circular motions to buff away roughness. For less friction add more water and for more grittiness add less. My skin is sensitive to over-exfoliation so I do not use the powder on the same day I use the Sonic Cleansing Brush.

If you want to look well rested, energized and alert, Mary Kay’s Hydrogel Eye Patches ($45.00) are a must! Apply the cool masks on clean dry skin for 20 minutes and relax as the lush serum soothes, depuffs and revitalizes.

After masking use the Moisturizing Stick ($32.00) to soften, protect, hydrate and replenish dry skin. The emollient-rich squalane formula melts in with no greasiness and the tube is great for travel.

Once you apply a layer of balm, pop the Facial Massage Head ($28.00) on the Skinvigorate and use it to tighten, lift and soften fine lines. 24,000 gentle pulsations tone and rejuvenate your profile in a single session.

Last but not least, apply two drops of Nourishing Oil ($55.00) before bed. This is my favorite product in the line because the formula is 100% natural and boosts radiance.

The nutritive blend contains:

*Olive Oil – soothes, prevents premature aging and sun damage, treats psoriasis and eczema, eliminates bacteria, and moisturizes with powerful antioxidants.

*Squalane Oil – supports the skin’s barrier, balances oil production, diminishes common signs of aging, reduces inflammation, boosts blood circulation, controls acne and deeply hydrates to reduce dryness.

*Sweet Almond Oil (high in fatty acids, vitamin E and A) – softens, smooths, prevents blackheads and acne, blurs find lines, heals chapped lips, alleviates irritation, and conditions.

*Vitamin E – potent antioxidant that protects against environmental damage, combats free radicals, reduces UV damage and supports healthy cell function.

You can find these fabulous products at marykay.ca