L’Oréal Infallible Paints Blush Palette and Liquid Eyeliner Review

Recently I reviewed the vibrant Lip Paints from L’Oreal so today I’ll be exploring more of this trendy collection which includes a wide variety of bold colors for spring and summer.

I never leave home without applying my liner and a splash of color along the lash line does wonders for the eyes. Although many of us are most comfortable with basic black or deep brown, daring shades are also very stylish. The Infallible Paints Liquid Eyeliner ($12.99) is available in 6 show stopping hues that instantly amp-up your eye shadow. They also look great winged-out on bare lids with lengthening mascara or falsies for a little extra drama.

The thin, flexible felt tip is only 0.5mm so you can create sleek, high-impact lines and amazing definition. Since the formula is highly saturated I can achieve one-stroke application with no skipping or sheerness and the color dries fast and lasts all day!

Bottom to top: White Party, Intrepid Teal, Electric Blue, Wild Green, Vivid Aqua and Black Party

The Infallible Paints Blush Palette ($19.99) is stunning and I think these shades are suitable for all complexions. The color applies sheer to medium with the versatility to be intensified for the perfect level of saturation. The consistency is on the dry side but blends well with no caking, flaking or accentuating skin texture. I love the matte, complexion boosting finish and you can also mix or layer to create your own tint. If you aren’t comfortable with vibrant pigment don’t let the boldness deter you. The shades on the end can be quite mild and the brighter blushes can be toned down substantially. The palette also comes with a small, coarse brush that leaves much to be desired but there isn’t really room for anything larger. L’Oreal is available at drugstores nationwide.

To read my review on the Lip Paints and to see swatches click HERE.

Clarins Hydra-Essentiel Skincare Review

The human body is comprised of about 60% water making it essential for daily functioning but many of us are not drinking the daily requirement. A hectic scheduled combined with pollution, fluctuations in weather, indoor heating or cooling systems and poor air quality can all lead to dehydrated, tired looking skin.

The new Hydra-Essentiel Collection from Clarins is the latest generation of anti-pollution skincare. Infused with organic Leaf of Life Extract harvested from Madagascar, the potent formula restores the skin’s water reservoirs to help retain moisture despite sudden temperature changes.

During the winter my skin can get parched and flaky but this year dryness wasn’t an issue! The Intensive Moisture Quenching bi-phase serum has a refreshing water base that deeply hydrates alleviates discomfort and absorbs quickly leaving skin supple, regenerated and smooth. The liquid tends to separate into light blue and deep blue so before use I shake well, pat on a generous amount and allow it to dry. There is no residue and it works well under makeup keeping my skin soft and protected without the accumulation of excess oil or grease. The cool invigorating sensation feels like a replenishing drink for the skin and the effects last all day. The serum retails for $56.00.

The Hydra-Essentiel Moisturizer ($46.00) is a lush, silky formula that works wonders day or night and when layered over the serum it maximizes hydration levels to nourish dull, stressed skin. The luxurious texture glides across the face bathing the skin in layers of lightweight dewy moisture with no stickiness or grease. My skin feels soft, even, smooth and revitalized with no rough patches and it seems to reduce pore size and enhance brightness for a radiant finish.

The Lotus Face Treatment Oil ($57.00) is not part of this amazing collection but when layered over the serum and moisturizer it creates the ultimate night recovery mask to revive and energize the skin as you get your beauty sleep. You can also use one of the Clarins Boosters on top of the Hydra-Essentiel range if you don’t have the oil but either way the reparative ingredients absorb deeply so I awake with clear, velvety skin! The Lotus Oil is comprised of 100% pure plant extracts that purify, balance, refine hydrate and improve oily or combination skin which equals less blemishes, pimples and discoloration.

Another product I’ve been using frequently is the Daily Energizer Cream which is rich in vitamin C, turmeric, alchemilla and gingko biloba to revitalize and prepare your skin for the day. Under makeup I use Clarins moisturizers more than any other brand and this light, cooling cream melts in efficiently, soothes and hydrates for a fresh, healthy glow. It retails for $29.00.

Clarins products are available at clarins.ca, department stores nationwide and Sephora

Marcelle Cosmetics Rouge Xpression Lipstick Review

Years ago I wrote an article on the Rouge Xpression Lipsticks from Marcelle and since then these smooth, trendy shades have remained some of my favorites! Although you can find them at your local drugstore, the quality and brilliant finishes are comparable to high-end formulas and if you appreciate stunning color and luxurious comfort it’s easy to find a variety of flattering hues to enhance your complexion.

The unique gel texture makes the pigment velvety smooth and cushiony for one-stroke coverage. These are the type of lipsticks you can apply effortlessly and mess-free while on-the-go and the ultra-lightweight color is buildable, highly saturated and pure with a hint of satiny shine.

The pearl finishes are a bit more radiant and beautifully reflective whereas the creams are solid, rich and buttery. No matter which shade you choose, prepare to fall in love because I haven’t found a color I didn’t like. The gluten-free, hypoallergenic formula is gentle, fragrance-free and very hydrating so as the color wears away lips remain supple and moist.

French Rose is a bright bubble gum pink with a frosty finish that is great for spring!

Passion is a bronzy-red pearl with a hint of burnt orange and Cleopatra is a beautiful deep mauve.

Royal Berry is from the Rouge Vitality Collection but it has similar color payoff and a bold, creamy finish. Fuchsia Flare has the perfect balance of bright pink and deep berry which creates a universally flattering mid-tone hue.

On the neutral end of the spectrum you have Euphoria - a luminous bronze and Delight which has a lovely pink undertone that keeps lips from appearing washed-out.

Swatches bottom to top: French Rose, Cleopatra, Passion, Royal Berry, Fuchsia, Delight and Euphoria 

The Lipsticks retail for $11.95 each and Marcelle Cosmetics is available at Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall, London Drugs, Walmart and various drugstores nationwide. You can also order online at marcelle.com with shipping to the U.S. 

Quo Cosmetics 2017 Spring Collection Review

If you’ve taken a break from bronzing it may be time to work on that spring-summer glow and the new collection from Quo has a variety of warm, flattering hues that revive a dull winter complexion.

The Bronzer Duos ($19.00) are available in 2 sculpting shades. South Beach is the lightest compact with a pop of pink shimmer and soft matte brown that appears almost flesh tone on my complexion. Although I am not able to use it for bold contouring, it provides light sculpting and blends well for a natural effect without harsh lines or caking. The pink highlighter or blush (you can use it for both) is sheer and faint but the subtle rosy tint is refreshing for spring. This particular combo may be more pronounced on fair skin tones.

Golden Glow is darker and seems a bit smoother. The color is buildable so I am able to define my features and the gold shimmer has much better pigmentation to brighten and highlight.  

The bronzers are also available in solid shades - Light Tan and Medium Tan with the same formula.

A good setting powder is essential because it transforms the look of makeup by creating a smooth, flawless finish. The Radial Blur Translucent Powder ($18.00) is lightweight, silky and ultra-fine so when blended well the finish is invisible. It also softens the reflection of light, controls oil, minimizes pores, mattifies, prolongs wear, and evens skin texture.

The Blush Duo in Classic Pink has a multi-tone effect with both shimmer and matte finishes. Although pink enhances the complexion with a pretty flush, the pigmentation is very sheer and difficult to intensify. I would have liked a lot more color payoff but if you prefer mild tints this may suit your needs. It retails for $16.00.

The Concealer Palette ($19.99) is ultra creamy, rich and smooth with 4 shades ideal for concealing dark circles, imperfections and blemishes. I use it by simply tapping the color on with my finger and I love how well it spreads and adheres so I can layer other products on top without much transfer. It provides medium coverage, camouflages well and you can mix and match to create customized shades. The lighter pigments can also be used to highlight or brighten the cheekbones and under the eyes. I recommend blending well and setting the cream to prevent creasing but this is a great little palette for daily use and travel.

The vibrant Lip Velours ($14.00) are available in 6 trendy new hues. Vamp is a deep wine that applies more like a sheer, vivid stain and Envy is a creamy full-coverage orangey-red with a bright matte finish. I’m not sure why one hue is solid and the other isn’t but they are both lovely!

Left to right: Golden Glow Duo, South Beach Duo, Envy, Vamp

I can’t get through a humid summer in Toronto without face primer or setting spray and Quo has released two new formulas. The Nourish and Prime Hydrating Primer ($24.00) contains jojoba, watermelon and other fruit extracts to moisturize and create a supple canvass for makeup. If you don’t like those ultra silky, silicone blends this is a great option because it feels more like a refreshing face cream and improves skin texture. The paraben-free Setting Spray ($19.00) is the perfect size for travel and although the mist does take time to dry, it helps lock-in your look to prevent fading and transfer.

Quo is available exclusively at Shoppers Drug Mart

L’Occitane Limited Edition Hand Cream Collection & Intensive Hand Balm Review

Nothing ruins a cute manicure like dry hands and with frequent washing, sanitizers and harsh weather, it can be difficult to keep skin soft and youthful. Thankfully L’Occitane has luxurious creams and balms infused with rich oils, moisturizing butters and natural plant extracts that heal, nourish and revitalize.

Valentine’s Day may be over but there is still time to get the stylish Hand Cream Gift Set with pampering ingredients sourced from the South of France. These creams are some of my favorites for travel and I keep one in my purse to replenish my hands throughout the day. The set comes with 5 fashionable tubes (Verbena, Cherry Blossom, Pivoine Flora, Rose and Almond) all designed with bright, feminine artwork. The ingredient list includes skin softening components like Coconut, Shea, Sweet Almond Oil, Cherry Extract, Rosemary and Sunflower to treat cracked, damaged skin, repair cuticles, smooth roughness and hydrate with a lightweight silky finish. The set is valued at $60.00 but retails for $50.00 while supplies last.

If winter has taken a toll on your hands, the Intensive Balm is a fabulous treatment for eradicating flakiness and extremely parched skin. The formula contains a high concentration of Shea Butter that penetrates deeply and forms a protective layer over hands, nails and cuticles for instant dryness relief and softness. Although the balm is ultra-rich and a bit difficult to squeeze out of the tube, there is no greasy residue. You can also use it as a recuperative hand mask by applying a generous amount and allowing it to seep in for 10 minutes before blotting off the excess. The balm is great for men who suffer from peeling, damaged skin, those who work outdoors, and professionals who hand wash frequently including nurses, teachers and doctors. The tube is 125 ml and retails for $40.00.

The Shea Collection consists of many lush, hydrating products but one of my favorites is the Foaming Cleanser ($28.00). This smooth, creamy emulsion removes impurities, makeup residue, excess oil and traces of pollution without leaving my face stiff and dry. It can be used morning or night for a soft, fresh complexion.

These great products can be found at L’Occitane stores and online at ca.loccitane.com

Spring Essentials & Accessories from Avon

To help get you ready for spring Avon has released a collection of cute floral accessories in coordinating prints and stylish colors! The canvass tote bag is sturdy, feminine and large enough to hold all your essentials. The dark background with pops of bright pink goes well with casual wear and is perfect for weekend getaways, beach vacations, picnics in the park, running errands and even a day out with the girls. I can already see myself strolling around Niagara Falls (one of my favorite places to unwind on a warm day) with this cute tote slung over my shoulder and the matching travel mug in-hand, sipping a caramel latte. It retails for $29.99.

The travel mug ($14.99) has the same trendy design as the bag (so you look totally fashionable) and the thick ceramic keeps beverages warm. The “hello beautiful” print and the vivid colors is an uplifting way to start the day.

Just when I thought this set couldn’t get any better I pulled out the adorable little manicure kit with the same motif. It comes with a cuticle clipper, nail clipper, file, scissors and cuticle pusher for $12.99.

When you’re breezing around town in style, why not wear a summery watch that effortlessly matches the rest of your outfit. This particular piece isn’t one I’d normally choose for myself but I love the bold stripes against the delicate hibiscus pattern and white band. The watch retails for $29.99.

If you travel frequently then you know how handy it is to have travel-size cases that can slip into a carry-on or weekend bag. The Be Inspired Set includes a clear sparkly bag and 3 reusable containers with room to fit more! It retails for $19.99.

Another great item for vacation is portable skincare and a sheet mask is easy to pack and very replenishing. The Anew Brightening Mask with White Pearl Essence is saturated in nutrient rich serum to correct skin tone, hydrate, soften and enhance your glow. I also use these masks when I get too much sun and want to bring my skin back to its natural tone. The Firming Mask with Royal Jelly Essence promotes firm, bouncy skin and helps diminish sagging and signs of aging. The refreshing formula also boosts moisture, balances and smooths. There are 4 masks per box and each box retails for $30.00.

For head-to-toe hydration the Skin So Soft Bath Oil fragrances the body with a sweet floral bouquet and locks in moisture with silky jojoba oil. You can pour this directly in the bath to soak the stress away or as I prefer – massage some into wet skin, lightly rinse and pat dry for supple results. The oil retails for $12.99.

You can find these items at avon.ca or through independent consultants.

The Body Shop Drops Of Light Pure Healthy Brightening Serum and Tea Tree Oil Review

Today’s post is dedicated to blemished skin which is a pesky problem that can affect makeup application and put a damper on your self esteem. Currently my complexion is clear, bright and silky but occasionally I spend too much time in the sun, experience mild discoloration or get an annoying pimple that requires treatment. 

When applied on a regular basis, a brightening serum can help fade hyperpigmentation and scarring to even and correct skin tone. The Drops of Light Serum is enriched with natural plant extracts and Red Algae that contains high levels of Vitamin C to brighten, retexture, heal, smooth and nourish. This potent blend has a lightweight, non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly for a silky, supple finish and the scent is wonderful! I usually layer it under moisturizer for more hydration and after several trips to the Caribbean I’ve noticed a luminizing effect that has lifted my tan, revitalized my complexion and reversed some environmental damage. The serum retails for $38.00.

Another great product for blemished skin is the Tea Tree Anti-Imperfection Daily Solution Oil. The Body Shop has hand-harvested these precious organic botanicals and steam distilled the formula within 12 hours to yield the most potent Tea Tree elixir. This fragrant oil delivers an efficient dose to help balance, correct and amplify radiance for healthy looking skin. The strong herbal aroma tends to mellow with wear and 2 drops coats the entire face, absorbs deeply and leaves behind no residue. Although the texture does make skin feel soft and smooth I usually combine it with my face cream, night mask or serum for more moisture. The oil retails for $25.00.

I’ve also received some new makeup from The Body Shop including the Color Crush Matte Lipstick in the shade Osaka Plum. The formula is 100% vegetarian and enriched with Brazil Nut Oil and Beeswax for comfort. The pigment is lightweight, highly saturated and slightly creamy but there is some drag across the lips and just enough moisture to prevent dryness. It took a couple layers to achieve consistent, full-coverage color but the bold finish holds up for hours! The lipsticks are available in 7 shades and retail for $15.00 each.

The Color Crush Single Shadows are silky, pearlescent and loaded with skin loving ingredients like coconut oil, sesame and honey. They apply silky and provide sheer to full-coverage intensity depending on the shade and finish. Cocoa Deluxe is a warm radiant bronze with plum undertones and great intensity. Gold Romance is a luminous sheer cream that makes a great highlighter for the eyes and face. The shadows retail for $11.00 each but are currently on sale for $5.00 at thebodyshop.ca. You can also find these great products in-store.

Mary Kay Spring 2017 Limited Edition Light Reinvented Collection Review

While testing new spring makeup I’ve come across many grey tones, neutrals and smoky hues so the Mary Kay Light Reinvented Collection is like a breath of fresh air! These pretty pastel pigments are soft and bright with luminous finishes that enhance the complexion and help you stay on-trend for the season.

On cool spring evenings the Glistening Horizon Palette makes the eyes pop with shimmery silver, iridescent deep blue, flattering purple and sky blue. The lightweight texture is sleek and easy to blend with sheer to medium color payoff and little fallout. The pigments apply well, last all day (with a good primer) and tend not to crease. I would have liked a bit more creaminess or weight for better adhesion but layering helps enhance saturation and the color combination is vivid, dramatic and eye-catching on all skin tones.

The Sunlight Palette is soft and feminine but still quite radiant. The silky pigments apply sheer to medium with the ability to be intensified and I love the bright Barbie pink, mild lavender and dazzling orange. The magnetic backing makes it easy to transfer the shadows for travel and you can mix and match in various combinations to create interesting ombré effects. The palettes retail for $26.00 each.

Mary Kay was very consistent with the color theme in this collection and the polish matches the lip gloss and shadows perfectly so you can color coordinate! These creamy, full-coverage lacquers come in 4 summery hues: (left to right) Brilliant Violet, New Blue, Luminous Mauve and Vivid Sunburst (my personal fave). The smooth formula applies full-coverage in two coats with a rich, shiny finish. They retail for $10.00 each.

The Glossy Lip Oils are lip treatments with a sheer pop of luminous, plumping color. They contain a nourishing blend of grape seed, jojoba and avocado to keep lips soft, protected and hydrated without stickiness or grease and they melt in deeply for long lasting comfort. The finishes are very subtle yet beautifully reflective and even after they wear away my lips feel supple and revitalized. The oils retail for $19.00 each.

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