Too Faced White Peach Eye Shadow Palette Review

The Too Faced Peach Collection has been a favorite ever since the first fruity palette created a buzz in the beauty community and sold-out everywhere. One of the most recent additions is the White Peach Palette ($45.00) which features a beautiful array of shimmer, glitter and matte hues that look marvelous on all complexions.  

Like its predecessor (Just Peachy Mattes), this palette has a fabulous selection of wearable shades that go from neutral to dramatic, glamorous and smokey. The smooth velvety texture makes blending a breeze and the versatile crease and transition shades take your look to the next level.

Peach Suede makes a great base and pairs well with Glistening Peach which in my opinion is the star of this palette. The other show-stopping lid shades include Peach Ice (shimmering silver) and Peach Passion – a deep navy with multi-colored glitter that creates a sultry finish.

I recommend using a good primer to prolong wear and improve adhesion but the color payoff is buildable and the saturation is great. If this is your first peach palette you will notice the delicious scent of sweet fig cream wafting out from under the lid which is a delightful way to start the day. To reduce fallout, pat the glittery pigments on with a dampened brush instead of swiping, this also helps increase the intensity.

Too Faced is available at Sephora and online at toofaced.com

Shu Uemura Hair Mask Treatments

Women always ask how I keep my hair so silky, long and healthy but the answer isn’t simple, it requires continuous effort and effective products. If I had to narrow it down I recommend: limiting heat styling and damaging chemicals like hair dye, eat healthy, take multi-vitamins, cut back on sulfates and increase moisture. I also sleep on a satin pillowcase, use natural oils, trim split ends, do weekly scalp massages, use GummiBand coils instead of regular hair ties to prevent breakage, nourish my ends with luxurious serums, limit shampooing to prevent brittleness and deep condition 2-3 times per month for at least 1-2 hours.

Nothing resurrects and replenishes dull, parched strands like a good hair mask and Shu Uemura has developed a wonderful collection of treatments for normal to thick hair.

The Color Luster Brilliant Glaze Mask ($66.00) preserves the vibrancy of color treated hair and functions like a protective varnish to prevent fading without sulfates. I’ve never dyed my hair but the formula also strengthens, restructures, softens and boosts shine to help counteract the damaging effects of over-processing. If you have thick hair, the treatment can be used as regular in-shower conditioner for more hydration.

My hair sucks up moisture like a sponge so I don’t have to worry about limpness. If you have thin hair or fine strands these formulas might be too heavy.

The method I use to get the most from my hair mask is simple:

1. Shampoo, rinse and use a light conditioner with lots of slip to detangle. The Tangle Teezer Aqua Brush works like a charm.

2. After rinsing, part your hair into manageable sections and apply the mask. Saturate the ends thoroughly and comb through evenly to distribute the product.

3. Tie or pin your hair up at the top of your head and cover with a plastic (disposable) shower cap.

4. Wrap your head with a hair towel/turbie twist for 1-2 hours to trap in the heat and enhance absorption. To speed up this process use the heat from your blow dryer to warm the plastic cap for 15-20 mins and rinse thoroughly.

5. Air dry or use the cool setting on your blow dryer and style as usual.

*Note: Adjust the treatment time based on your hair type or follow the directions on the jar.

Silk Bloom with Argan Oil ($66.00) is formulated for damaged hair. It deeply restores and fortifies to prevent split-ends, frizz and breakage. This thick, creamy treatment is great for people who use heat appliances like blow dryers, curling rods and flat irons because the conditioner rejuvenates rough, brittle strands by enveloping each one in rich, nutritive moisture for a radiant finish. I notice immediate improvement in texture - my hair feels incredibly soft, smooth and polished with a glossy sheen that lasts until my next wash day. It also makes a wonderful detangler and smells fantastic!

The colorful coils you see around the jars are GummiBands – they protect my hair from breakage and hold my ponytail snugly without denting or crinkling. There are a variety of trendy shades to choose from and the gummi material does not absorb oil, sweat or water. The cords are easy to remove without yanking out strands of hair and a box of 4 retails for $7.99 at gummiband.ca.

Shusu Sleek ($66.00) is paraben and silicone free for coarse frizzy hair. Inspired by Japanese silk, this luxurious formula works wonders on curls and thick waves by deeply nourishing, moisturizing and maintaining the natural shape of your spirals. It creates movement, bounce and body without poof and the power of Black Cumin Oil drenches hair in vitamins to help slow hair loss, soften and alleviate scalp irritation. Like the other masks in this collection, the rich formula is great for repairing damage, protecting against environmental elements and strengthening to prevent breakage but the scent is a bit spicy.

The results I achieved with these treatments were much better than anything I’ve experienced at high-end salons and my hair looks healthy and lustrous. Shu Uemura is available at Hudson's Bay, Sephora and online at shuuemura.ca.

Since we’re talking about hair care, I should also mention my collection of Tangle Teezer Compact Stylers because I recently got 2 new designs – the red lips with stripes and the adorable Hello Kitty ($21.00 - $25.00 each). I love these brushes because they fit in my purse and come with a cap that protects the bristles from getting warped. The long spindly teeth are perfect for detangling all hair types including long, thick tresses and I also use it to distribute conditioner and masks through my wet curls to enhance treatment results and make my ringlets more spring-y. They also comb through pesky knots with minimal hair loss and stimulate blood flow to the scalp. Tangle Teezer is available at The Bay, Sephora and online at tangleteezer.com.

Pixi Beauty Rose Caviar Essence Moisture Serum & Rose Flash Balm Review

People love receiving beautiful flowers (myself included) but roses can be used for a lot more than commemorating special occasions and decorating your coffee table. Rose oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce redness, irritation, acne and eczema while cleansing, soothing and moisturizing. Pixi Beauty has harnessed the rejuvenating power of these delicate petals and infused it in their new skincare to nourish and revive your complexion. 

The Rose Caviar Essence ($34.00) is an antioxidant-rich, weightless serum infused with encapsulated flower oils that melt upon application to deeply hydrate, tone, soften and refine. Rose Oil, Anise and Mulberry Extracts balance, heal, brighten and fade discoloration for an even complexion. The formula is also loaded with vitamins and botanical ingredients including: Bergamot, Macadamia, Sunflower, Jojoba and Aloe to restore youthful radiance while the refreshing gel texture instantly alleviates sensitive skin.

Long sleepless nights can trigger breakouts and make skin appear dull, fatigued and haggard. For me it is usually due to jet lag, working too late or staying up all weekend. The Rose Flash Balm ($34.00) is a revitalizing booster that restores tired, lackluster skin with a nourishing blend of Flower Water, Olive Extract and Witch Hazel. The lightweight cream also balances pH, enhances glow, moisturizes, soothes and minimizes redness with an aromatic rose scent. I use it under the Cavier Essence at night but it also works as a makeup primer and mask treatment when layered thicker.

One of my skincare essentials for travel is the Glow Tonic To-Go Pads ($30.00) with 5% Glycolic Acid and Aloe. These are always in my carry-on to refresh my face after a long, drying flight. I also use them to remove lingering traces of makeup after initial cleansing and they are great post-workout wipes. The pads also eliminate excess oil, dirt and impurities while gently exfoliating, brightening and hydrating.

No matter how tired I feel after a long day, the first thing I do when I get home is remove my makeup to clear my pores and prevent blemishes. The new Double Cleanse ($34.00) created by Pixi and aesthetician Caroline Hirons is a 2-in-1 product that easily slips in a tote, gym bag or suitcase. Side 1 contains solid cleansing oil that melts onto the skin and gently emulsifies stubborn makeup. Step 2 is a rich cleansing cream that you massage in and remove with a moist facecloth to prep your face for skincare products.

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

Nyx Cosmetics Love You So Mochi Eye Shadow Palettes & Powder Puff Lippe: Review & Swatches

Spring is in the air! Toronto has finally begun to thaw and on my way to see Black Panther I was able to shed my winter jacket and bulky scarf. To celebrate the warm weather I’ve been using my new Nyx Palettes to create bright uplifting looks with radiant pigments! The Mochi Palettes are available in 2 color collections – Sleek & Chic and Electric Pastels. You will probably want to buy both (because who can resist) and while you’re at it pick up a few of the new Powder Puff Lippies to make your pout stand-out.

Let me start by explaining what Mochi is because some of you may have no idea what I’m talking about. Nyx named their new palettes after a popular Japanese rice cake with a soft marshmallow texture. Calories and carbs aside, the bright rainbow pigments are smooth and silky with loads of iridescent shimmer that makes you look like a fairy princess. The pastels appear vibrant and dramatic but apply soft and radiant with sheer, buildable coverage. You can boost the intensity by layering over primer and the vivid fuchsia, sparkling blue and peachy gold definitely add a unique twist to my makeup kit.

If you aren’t feeling the bright shades then Sleek & Chic may be more your style. It still has a heavy dose of amped-up shimmer but the gold and bronze hues may be easier to wear on a daily basis. I like to match them with matte shadows for more contrast and crease definition but they are perfect for a night out. The pillowy texture, metallic intensity and dazzling illumination makes these palettes totally irresistible! They retail for $25.00 each.

Nyx knocked it out of the park with their new Powder Puff Lippies ($12.00 each). I’ve tested all 8 shades and they are fantastic! The formula is lightweight, soft, supple and highly pigmented for great saturation and cushiony comfort. The cream applies like a lush mousse and sets with a soft powder finish that makes lips appear plush and pouty. You can layer heavily for bold color or let the pigment fade for a beautiful blur.

The Pillow Applicator is great for blending and versatile coverage. There aren’t any sharp angles or edges to help outline but the velvety formula spreads evenly.

There are quite a few neutrals in this collection but surprisingly they are all flattering. I’m not a huge fan of nude lips (unless I’m wearing dramatic eye shadow) but each shade has a pink or brown undertone that suits my complexion.

There are also 3 bright summery shades

The lipsticks retail for $12.00 each and Nyx is available at freestanding stores, drugstores nationwide and online at nyxcosmetics.ca.

Garnier Fructis Hair Treats 1 Minute Hair Mask Review

Many people are becoming more health conscious about the beauty products they buy so Garnier has created a collection of delicious 1 Minute Hair Masks that are 98% natural. These colorful little jars make life easier because they can be used as leave-in, regular conditioner and rejuvenating treatments to replenish and heal dry ends. The nutrient-rich formulas are vegan and free of parabens, silicones and artificial colorants.

There are 5 blends available to target different hair concerns and for just $5.49 each you can mix and match to create your own fruit cocktail. I don’t like the taste of papaya but I don’t mind putting it on my hair and this seedy melon is loaded with antioxidants and vitamins. The mask smells scrumptious and helps fortify and repair damage to reduce breakage and improve texture.

The creamy conditioners saturate parched strands in lush moisture and help detangle. I leave them on for more than 1 minute (usually an hour) but when I’m short on time I use them in the shower while I lather-up.

Avocados are not just for guacamole and salads, this yummy fruit is packed with healthy fats, fiber and emollients that are incredibly beneficial for skin and hair. The rich formula softens, smooths and deeply nourishes for enhanced shine.
TIP: For ultra-soft skin try using the conditioners to shave. They create enough slip for razors to glide effortlessly and make your legs feel wonderful!

I love using Garnier conditioners for co-washing (cleansing with conditioner instead of shampoo to maintain hydration) because my hair smells amazing for days! The Coconut Mask reminds me of the Caribbean and tames unruly tresses for manageability and frizz control.

Goji Berry is considered a “superfood” because it is very good for your health. I like to add a handful to homemade granola or trail mix and the mask helps maintain the vibrancy of color treated hair.

Bananas are delicious in yogurt and desserts which is what this mouth-watering mask reminds me of. It strengthens weak, fragile hair and protects from styling and environmental damage that causes brittleness and breakage.

Garnier is available at drugstores nationwide

Annabelle Cosmetics Marie-Mai Collection & Marcelle Velvety Blush Review

While traveling I like to pack small, versatile palettes that can slip in my purse and Annabelle has a great selection at affordable prices. Marcelle also has a new blush collection with deep berry tones that sculpt and flatter all complexions. 

Annabelle has teamed up with Canadian singer Marie-Mai to create new pigments that can go from neutral to intense. The shadow palette ($12.95) includes gold, orange, mauve-pink, brown and even a matte yellow. The shade selection may seem a bit unusual but somehow it works. You can define the crease, accentuate the lids, highlight and transition to create quick, simple looks. The pigmentation is sheer to medium but with a good primer you can enhance the colors and create a range of natural effects for daily wear.

The Marie-Mai Ombré Blush ($8.95) is perfect for spring. The bright, silky coral instantly boosts and illuminates dull skin with a beautiful sheen that works as both blush and highlighter. For more radiance dip your brush in the top of the powder to pick up more shimmer, the pigment is buildable, easy to blend and looks great on all skin tones.

The Eye-Tech Palette ($12.95) has 3 matte shadows, 3 satins, 2 sparkling top coats and 2 creams – one for lining the eyes and the other to illuminate. These shades are a bit bland for my taste and they don’t deliver the intensity or vibrancy I usually prefer. The pigmentation could be better and the cream formulas don't work as well as I hoped. 

I love the blushes from Marcelle Cosmetics and the new Velvety powders are hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and paraben-free. The super-fine pigments blend seamlessly to provide a natural flush and the shade selection includes a range of rich berry and refreshing blossom tones. There are no harsh pinks or ultra-bright finishes in this line, instead you get soft natural hues that are easy to wear. Each smooth pigment has a light dusting of shimmer for a little extra glow and the deeper shades help contour and define. The blush retails for $12.95 each.

Annabelle and Marcelle Cosmetics are available at drugstores nationwide

Loreal True Match Lumi Collection: NEW Highlighters

On dreary winter days a pop of radiance does wonders for the complexion. Whether you prefer a soft candlelight glow for date night or dramatic strobing that puts disco balls to shame, Loreal has you covered!

The new Lumi Glow Collection includes a fabulous range of skin enhancers to suit all your moods, outfits and events. From lotions to illuminating drops and pressed powders you can go from drab-to-fab in minutes.

I tend to prefer loose pigment because the color payoff is usually very intense and versatile. The Lumi Shimmerista is a lightweight, micro-fine loose powder that delivers high-impact, dramatic color. One dab is enough to give you a bombshell glow that seems to radiate from within and it can be used to highlight the body for a warm sunkissed effect. While getting glam from head-to-toe why not apply the shimmer over eye primer to create a pretty shadow! This is the most saturated highlighter in the Lumi Collection.

The True Match Lumi Glotion ($20.49) provides effortless illumination and hydration for a fresh, natural glow. There are 3 shades available: Fair, Light and Medium to suit all skin tones and it can be worn alone or under makeup. The deeper hues look a bit like foundation but the formula blends seamlessly and transforms to match your complexion. It instantly boosts and brightens with a subtle sheen that lasts all day.

The Lumi Glow Nude Palette ($22.99) comes in Moonkissed and Sunkissed with 4 shades that create customized, multi-dimensional looks. The pressed powder is dry and a bit chalky with sheer pigmentation that requires more layering to enhance. The finish isn’t as seamless, silky or long-lasting as Shimmerista but you can still use it to get your glow on.

The Glow Amour Boosting Drops ($22.99) is a sheer, liquid-y formula that blends evenly to create a gorgeous sheen. You can mix a drop into foundation or moisturizer for a dewy finish and pat some onto the cheekbones for iridescent luster. The luminous polish radiates beautifully so you can use it to accentuate your décolletage and shoulders for a night out.

Loreal is available at drugstores nationwide

Quo Cosmetics Spring 2018 Limited-Edition Makeup Collection

Many beauty brands have started launching their spring collections and I'm looking forward to floral prints, warm bronzers and bright colors. When it comes to Quo Cosmetics expect to see large palettes featuring pale pink, soft grey and subtle pops of shimmer. For the nails it’s all about glistening pearl and solid shades.

The Face Palette ($20.00) in Golden Girl includes 2 highlighters, 2 bronzers and 2 blushes. The pigments are very mild, sheer and neutral – designed to provide a warm sunkissed glow offset by a light pink flush. These aren’t colors I would normally wear. The silver highlighter is too white, the bronzer is a bit light and the pinks appear a tad chalky on my complexion. I think these hues would look more flattering and prominent on fair skin tones.

The Eye Shadow Palette ($18.00) in Royal Ore contains 3 grey tones (light, medium and charcoal) contrasted with stark white. When I first saw these colors I immediately thought – smokey eye, because there isn’t much else you can do with so much grey. The texture is quite silky and although the pigmentation is sheer, the color can be enhanced for more depth. I was hoping for more vibrancy and variety but if you don’t have basic greys in your collection these might work for you.

The Quo by Orly Limited Edition Nail Polish Collection is more interesting. Many of the pearlescent finishes have a hint of metallic color with a pretty sheen. The formula is easy to work with and once dry the iridescent effect is quite eye-catching. My favorites are Petal to the Metal (pale pink-purple) and Electrum - an elegant blue-grey. There are also 2 bold hues: Second Hand Jade and Stiletto on the run - a bright red.

Quo Cosmetics is available exclusively at Shoppers Drug Mart

Urban Decay Heavy Metals Eye Shadow Palette & Glitter Eyeliner: Review & Swatches

It is no secret that I have a lot of makeup but every so often something really amazing comes along that is totally irresistible. The Urban Decay Heavy Metals Collection was released during the holiday season (when glitter and glitz was all the rage) and the colors are seriously gorgeous! I haven’t been this excited about makeup since UD released Naked Heat (which I still use every week) but these metallic pigments are all about dramatic jaw-dropping color worthy of the red carpet.

These amped-up chrome shades have a rich velvety texture that applies like a dream with incredible color payoff. The formula is full-coverage, intense, non-creasing and long-lasting so no matter how hard you party they never falter.

The shadows are sheathed in a metallic purple case and the tray slides out completely so you can use it like a painter’s palette and unleash your creativity. For makeup artists, this design is practical but for travel and storage the packaging is a tad bulky. The large mirror in the middle lets you get up close to perfect your blending technique.

The right side features warm gold, champagne and sultry bronze tones that I can’t get enough of. These are my signature shades because they look lovely on the skin and transition from day to night. Although the colors are referred to as “neutrals” they are definitely not flat or boring. The shimmer is radiant and highly saturated so I balance them by using matte shades in the crease for more contrast. The shadow I’m most intrigued by is Afterparty – a coppery bronze with mesmerizing red undertones. Although some of the finishes look quite glittery, the color applies smooth and consistent with very little fallout and a beautiful iridescent sheen.

The left side of the palette contains magnificent jewel tones. Some people might reserve these bold pigments for parties or special events but I’m not afraid to wear them on a weekday. The sparkling teal-blue (Amp), potent purple (Metalhead), smokey garnet (Punk Rock) and glistening emerald (Mullet) are incredible but I think the yellow gold and silver are a bit redundant.

If you crave spectacular shadows that make your eyes look phenomenal, I highly recommend Heavy Metals. It retails for $72.00.

The collection also includes the Heavy Metal Glitter Eyeliner ($23.00) in 11 shades that remind me of tinsel. The best thing about this formula is that you don’t have to deal with messy fall-out. Once dry, the glitter stays put all day with no scatter.

Since the base is clear and the brush is thin it can be difficult to create solid lines. If you want a lot of sparkle you may need to apply several coats but it's easier to layer over liquid or pencil eyeliner for more consistency.

The liners make fantastic overlays – coat the brush with a generous does of glitter and dab it on top of your shadow for a pop of radiance. You can enhance any pigment with a few swipes and I’ve even used it on my lips!

Urban Decay is available at Sephora, Shoppers Drug Mart, UD stores and online at urbandecay.ca. Sign up for the Beauty Junkies Rewards Program to earn and redeem points!