Friday, March 29, 2019

L'Oreal Rouge Signature Liquid Lipstick: Review and Swatches

When I’m rushing out the door in the morning and battling rush-hour traffic from one meeting to the next, I don’t usually have time to break out a lip liner and carefully apply a fresh coat of lipstick. On hectic day I need low maintenance, bombshell color that stays put, looks fabulous and applies evenly with no fuss.

For busy fashionistas who never compromise on color, L'Oreal has created the Rouge Signature Liquid Lipsticks ($13.99 ea). The formula is 2X thinner than regular lipstick with a non-drying, weightless finish.


With 18 vibrant hues to choose from there is something for everyone. The spectrum ranges from bright to nude with pops of pink, sassy red and deep burgundy. The doe-foot applicator is tapered to perfection so you can manoeuvre around the lip contour to define and shape.

The thin liquid-y color glides on like a sheer vivid lacquer and spreads evenly for buildable coverage. I use about 3-5 layers and apply the last one very lightly with minimal blending to maintain an opaque coat. The finish is matte but it takes a while to dry and transfers easily if you don’t let it set.


Throughout the day I ate a couple meals, managed to consume 8 glasses of water, completed a few errands, attended an evening event, and worked well past quitting time. There was gradual fading and transfer during meals (especially in the center of my lips) but the lipstick held up quite well and I totally forgot it was on. The amount of wear you get really depends on your lifestyle. If you drink a lot, sweat or consume greasy food that loosens the color, chances are it will come off but not as quickly as most lipstick.

The texture is comfortable and flexible with just enough moisture to prevent dryness. I only needed one minor touch-up and there was no flaking or smudging.


At the end of a long day, removing stubborn makeup can be a drag but this formula doesn’t leave behind a heavy stain. Most of it can be wiped away with a makeup cloth or lifted off with a cleansing cream/oil.


I also have a few of the new L'Oreal Color Riche Ultra-Matte Lipsticks ($9.86). This collection was curated with lip tone shades to enhance your nature hue.

Shades (left to right) - 980 Rebel Rouge, 989 Berry Extreme and 977 Passionate Pink

Over the last few months I’ve full embraced the neutral trend because like it or not, it isn’t going anywhere. The trick is finding a nude lipstick that enhances your complexion with undertones that don’t wash you out or dull your glow.

These gorgeous colors are blended with pink, mauve, chocolate and berry pigments that provide a soft-focus powdery matte finish. The consistency is smooth, light, creamy and moisturizing with great color payoff .

L'Oreal is available at drugstores nationwide.

Wednesday, March 27, 2019

Escape to Paradise: Isla Mujeres Mexico - Izla Hotel

Before my husband surprised me with a spontaneous trip to Isla Mujeres I had never heard of it. This small Mexican island in the Caribbean Sea has white sandy beaches, luxury resorts and beautiful coral reefs. Just 13 kilometers/8 miles from Cancun, it is a great location for a romantic getaway secluded from crowded tourist areas.

Just as the hectic holiday season began and winter weather settled upon Toronto, I was whisked away for some fun in the sun.


Getting to Isla Mujeres is no easy feat. After emerging from customs and immigration, we were bombarded with shuttle services, tours and taxi drivers adamantly offering their services. Several sales people asked us to visit their hotel in exchange for a free ride but we declined. You can also book a private car in advance or purchase tickets online which I highly recommend to avoid all the drama.

To reach Isla Mujeres you must fly into Cancun and make your way to the UltraMar Ferry Port in Puerto Juarez 30 minutes away. You can purchase a one-way shuttle ticket to the terminal for $16.00 USD per person and wait up to 45 minutes until the company gathers a large enough group to depart. If you chose this option, the shuttle makes several stops along the Hotel Zone before heading to the ferry so the trip can take up to 1 hour and 20 minutes.

The cheapest route is taking the ADO Airport Bus downtown and then a $5.00 taxi to the ferry. I was tired from travelling and just wanted to get there so we opted for a private taxi which usually cost $50.00 USD one-way but we negotiated a return trip as well.


Once in Puerto Juarez, the ferry cost $15.00 USD/300 pesos round-trip and the boat leaves every half an hour. The crossing takes about 20 minutes and once on Isla Mujeres, we took a $10.00 cab to the Izla Hotel. Look for the taxi line just outside the ferry terminal (left of the exit).

With the exchange rate, round-trip to and from the hotel cost about $100.00 Canadian dollars. Izla Hotel should make the journey easier for their guests by offering a free or discounted shuttle service directly to the boat dock on their beach. They charge $60.00 USD one-way.

Isla Mujeres is very small, just 7 km (4.3 mi) long and 65 km wide. It has a laid-back, leisurely vibe and tropical breezes wafting in from all directions.

Izla Hotel is designed like a horseshoe situated around a large sparkling pool. Most of the rooms have a great view of the beach, main courtyard or marina.


Our ocean view suite was spectacular! It definitely made up for the hassle of getting there. The luxurious room features modern decor and a large covered balcony with stunning panoramic views. It also has a deep outdoor Jacuzzi tub which is perfect for soaking the stress away before bed. 


After a long day of doing practically nothing, we’d often slip into the warm bubbly water with a glass of wine and watch the sun set on the horizon.


The bed was comfortable, the bathroom was large and the suite had enough storage and space to make us feel right at home. Since the hotel is relatively new, it hasn’t been tainted by swarms of messy guests so the grounds are clean, well-kept and stylish.


Upon check-in, the staff responded quickly and greeted us with a fruity welcome drink. This is not an all-inclusive resort but what they lack in free cocktails and food, they make up for in well used space. Izla’s best feature is the lavish relaxation areas. They’ve created a marvelous oasis surrounded by lounge chairs and umbrellas. At the shallow end of the pool there are hammocks above the water shaded by a gazebo. My husband and I spent many mornings enjoying the warm breeze and eating... lots of eating.


The rooftop area has a stunning infinity pool overlooking the entire resort and ocean. There are private canopied cabanas shaded with billowing white curtains and daybeds that are great for sunbathing. The atmosphere is very serene with enough privacy for an afternoon nap.



The beach at the property leaves much to be desired. It is very shallow so you can only go in ankle deep and the murky water is laden with washed-up seaweed. For swimming and snorkeling, you have to venture off the property.

Our main objective was to do the bare minimum (easier said than done) so if you’re looking for excitement, this is probably not the resort for you. We went right before busy season so the hotel was almost deserted (just the way we like it). We had the whole place to ourselves with no annoying crowds or noise and our own personal wait staff. It was pure bliss – swaying palm trees, soft music and complete tranquility. If you travel during busy season, your experience will probably be quite different.



Families with teens or kids may find Izla quite boring as it lacks the amenities and activities to keep the little ones busy. I was disappointed that there were no shows, clubs, live bands or entertainment of any kind. At night it was rather dull so we had to look elsewhere for fun.

The restaurants have positive reviews so we tried an authentic Mexican meal at the cafe.


We ordered the empanada platter and chicken enchiladas. The meal also came with a free appetizer – fresh corn chips and 3 tasty dips. Prices were reasonable but the menu never changes so options are limited. After a few days we ran out of things to try and there are no restaurants within walking distance.



Breakfast rated well above standard continental cuisine. There was a hearty selection of pancakes, waffles, French toast, eggs, sautéed local veggies, savory meat, salad, pastries, oatmeal, fruit and more. We particularly enjoyed the omelette bar.


Eventually I grew restless from all the sitting so we ventured downtown. You can rent a golf cart at the hotel or from various companies on the island for about $40-$50 USD a day and many tourists also rent scooters.

In downtown Isla Mujeres you will find typical tourist shops selling everything from beach gear to colorful crafts, local treats and of course, sombreros. I stocked up on pure Mexican vanilla for my sister (the baker in our family) and purchased a few souvenirs. When you get tired of resort food, there are a variety of restaurants to choose from in town. I had a yummy pina colada served in a pineapple at Muelle 7 on the beach and a not so appetizing pizza (the food there is mediocre).


The next day we made our way to Cancun which meant another ride on the UltraMar Ferry ($19.00 USD per person round-trip). If you are traveling to the Hotel Zone, it is faster and cheaper to take the ferry departing from downtown Isla Mujeres rather than Puerto Juarez. Just keep in mind that it stops running at 5 pm while the one in Puerto Juarez runs until midnight.


Aside from casinos hotels, restaurants, bars and shops, there isn’t much else to do in Cancun’s Hotel Zone so you might want to book an adventure tour or excursion. We took the local bus ($1.00 per ride) and stopped at various points of interest which included a beach bar.


For those concerned about crime, rest assure that the tourist areas are quite safe. No matter where you travel, it is advisable to take standard safety precautions (read my article – Tips for Planning a Great Vacation, What Every Traveler Should Know). I did not feel threatened in any way and the locals are friendly.

I recommend checking out the Mexican Outlet for a wide variety of souvenirs and to sample the pure Mexican chocolate which makes an excellent gift for friends and family back home. They use an ancient Mayan technique for grinding the raw cocoa beans which results in a rich, organic flavor that is slightly gritty and loaded with antioxidants.



On the way back to Isla Mujeres a storm began brewing and the waves were very rough. If you are using the ferry to get around, you might want to pack sea sickness medication or wrist bands just in case.

After a few days of serenity, the hotel let us check-out late (2 pm) which many places don’t allow. We spent the last afternoon hanging out on our balcony and watching HBO in bed – there are great movie channels and satellite stations. At this point I had a few mosquito bites (including one on my face) that were painful and irritated so don't forget the bug spray!


Would I visit Isla Mujeres or Cancun again? - Probably not. I had a fantastic time but my goal is to see as many countries and cities as possible and I have been to other parts of Mexico – Cozumel (2x) and Progresso. If you are looking for a quick getaway, this area is still very popular so I’m sure you will have an awesome vacation!

For more travel inspiration and articles check out my travel page HERE.

Monday, March 25, 2019

It Cosmetics Secret Sauce Moisturizer and NEW Miracle Water

These days I rarely finish an entire bottle of moisturizer or serum. I usually test a collection for a few weeks/months to report the most accurate results possible and then move onto the next set of products I am sent to review.

When I started using the It Cosmetics Confidence in a Cream ($62.00), I scarped out every last drop and then started dipping into the jar I gave my mom. I love how healing and soothing the formula is, so I use it under makeup and to revive my skin before bed.


The cream I am currently obsessed with is Secret Sauce ($88.00) and as you’ve noticed, the product names are fabulous!

It Cosmetics Skincare is formulated by plastic surgeons who focus on effective active ingredients for transformative results.

This powerful complex is made with clinically advanced fermented ingredients to increase absorbency and maximize the anti-aging, hydrating benefits. It also contains diamond powder, vitamin C, licorice root, hydrolyzed collagen, plant extracts, hyaluronic acid, peptides and nourishing oils to reduce the look of discoloration, lines, wrinkles and sagging with a soft focus finish.


The list of replenishing components infused in this cream is impressive and very extensive. They work harmoniously to enhance your glow for a natural “lit from within” effect.

The luxurious formula melts in without residue or greasiness and quenches rough, dehydrated skin. I love the mild scent and my face feels supple, silky and plump – like I’ve just had a replenishing mini-facial. It makes an excellent base for makeup and before bed I apply a generous layer to lock-in nutrients as I sleep.

After just two weeks my skin looks bright, even and clear with smaller pores and fewer blemishes. The cream is also idea for vacation and harsh climates as it heals problem areas and alleviates mild irritation while preventing breakouts.

The Miracle Water ($49.00) is a 3-in-1 tonic formulated to maximize the results of your skincare with an abundance of natural extracts, emollients, antioxidants, vitamins and aquatic plants. It purifies like micellar water by trapping and removing dirt, impurities, oil, makeup and bacteria. It also contains ingredients that brighten, hydrate and reduce the look of wrinkles, discoloration, pores and fine lines. Essentially the solution does the job of a toner, cleanser and essence treatment to prevent acne and revitalize your complexion overtime.


It Cosmetics has also released a new CC+ Oil-Free Matte Full Coverage Cream ($49.00) with SPF 40 UVA/UVB broad spectrum. The formula is loaded with complex correcting pigments that camouflage imperfections, dark spots and redness without cracking or creasing. There are 12 shades that range from fair, light, medium, neutral, tan, rich and deep.

Similar to all It Cosmetics products, this is much more than foundation. The cream is infused with tea tree extract, detoxifying clay, collagen, anti-aging serum, peptides hyaluronic acid, niacin, vitamins and antioxidants to control oil, prevent blemishes, hydrate, soothe, protect and renew for a youthful glow.


The color feels weightless, flexible and natural with no flaking. It also blends well, conceals everything and creates a smooth poreless finish.

As usual, I had difficulty finding a suitable match. I chose the Rich shade which looked promising in the tube but appears deeper than my complexion and a tad orange. 

If you’d like to try these great products, It Cosmetics is available at Sephora, The Shopping Channel and online at itcosmetics.ca.

Friday, March 22, 2019

Burt’s Bees Liquid Lipstick: Review and Swatches

I’m already a huge fan of Burt’s Bees Lipstick but when I tried the new liquid formula, it was hard to believe that color this vibrant is 100% natural.

The only thing better than the luscious texture and healing emollients is the gorgeous shade selection. There are 12 trendy hues to choose from ranging from rich berry, vivacious red, mauve, rose, coral and nude – I love them all!


The velvety pigments contain conditioning apricot and babassu oil blended with shea butter and essential fatty acids that deeply moisturize, soften and protect. If you really want your pout to pop, apply generous layers to enhance opaqueness while using the applicator point to define and accentuate. The glistening shine has a plumping effect for a little extra drama.

Like most cream formulas, expect some transfer with extended wear and during meals. Aside from having to reapply throughout the day, there is minimal smudging and no staining.

The rich autumn colors are my favorite but the coverage and consistency seems to vary. Some shades are dense and apply prominently in one coat while others are sheer, a tad slippery and vivid – similar to saturated lip gloss. I wouldn’t classify every pigment as “liquid lipstick” but they are pretty.


The pink tones are soft, easy to wear and flattering on all complexions.


In the neutral spectrum there are 3 hues that range from light, medium and deep – a little something for everyone.


If you’re looking for chemical-free lipstick that looks great and feels fantastic, you should definitely give these a try. The formula isn’t flawless but the organic extracts nourish dry lips in all climates and won’t melt in your purse.


The lipsticks retail for $15.99 each at Whole Foods, Shoppers Drug Mart, amazon.ca, Walmart, London Drugs and well.ca. You can also check them out at burtsbees.ca.

Thursday, March 21, 2019

16 Travel Essentials I Never Leave Home Without

On average I travel every 2-4 months so I’ve developed a packing routine that includes a meticulously categorized checklist for various destinations and climates. Life is so much easier when you know exactly what to bring and never forget the essentials.

It’s always a good idea to limit the amount of stuff you jam in your suitcase but I’m not the backpacking type.

I might not always need 5 eye shadow palettes or 6 pairs of shoes for a weekend getaway, but there are a few beauty items and gadgets I never leave home without.


1. iPad Pro 10.5” 256GB ($1000.000 – available at various retailers and apple.com/ca)
When I’m on a press trip reviewing hotels, tours, attractions etc, my iPad is always in my purse. I actually have 2 iPads that I take on all trips for photography, work, emails, social media and keeping in touch with family. It is lighter than a lap top and helps reschedule my travel itinerary due to last minute cancellations. During long layovers and boring overseas flights, it keeps me distracted with movies, games and music...it is basically my lifeline.


2. Kindle ($130 - $180 at amazon.ca)
Technically I can use my iPad as an e-reader but my Kindle is light, small and loaded with classics. You’d be surprised how much reading you get done during long airport delays.

3. Foreo Luna Mini 2 ($159.00 - beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca)
If you don’t have a Foreo Luna in your life, you definitely need one! This small yet powerful face brush delivers 8,000 sonic vibrations per minute and removes up to 99.9% of dirt, oil, bacteria and makeup lodged deep in your pores. The hygienic silicone bristles dry quickly and do not harbor bacteria. Simply apply your favorite cleanser, adjust the intensity (there are 8 levels) and move the device in circular motions. It is gentle enough for daily use.

4. Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment ($32.00 ea - Sephora)
My lips get super dry while jet-setting around the world and this conditioning balm is loaded with sea fennel, orange extract, jojoba, grape seed oil, avocado oil, black currant, rose water and more! The creamy formula drenches parched skin in supple moisture that prevents chapping for hours.

5. Compression Socks ($9.99 - avon.ca)
When you’re trapped 30,000 ft in the air, sitting for hours can inhibit blood flow and cause swelling. To maintain proper circulation during long flights, it is important to get up and stretch or walk down the aisle. Compression socks push blood back to the heart and prevent tired legs and sore feet. If you travel as much as I do or work long hours at a desk job, these socks are great for your health.

6. Foreo ISSA Play Electric Toothbrush ($59.00 - Shoppers Drug Mart)
This handy little toothbrush pulsates 9,000 times per second and the flexible bristles remove plaque, food and bacteria while gently massaging sensitive gums. It lasts up to 800 uses without having to change the batteries and the waterproof coating is made of antibacterial silicone.

7. Personal Humidifier ($29.99 - airinnovations.com)
At home I use my Air Innovations Humidifier every night so I got the travel-size version to improve my breathing and keep my complexion healthy in polluted environments. Airplanes are extremely dry and the air quality in hotel rooms can be musty and saturated with dust, dander and impurities.


This cute Ultrasonic Personal Humidifier is perfect for small rooms (up to 150 Sq Ft). The built-in UV light kills 99.9% of bacteria and the machine uses a standard plastic bottle as a water reservoir which can last up to 14 hours! I love how easy it is to use and the steady stream of cool mist improves sleep quality, helps you overcome jet-lag and alleviates cold/allergy symptoms. It also rehydrates dry eyes, skin, hair and nasal passages so you don’t wake up with dry mouth or a scratchy throat. If you don’t like the leopard print it comes in a variety of colors and designs.

8. Conair Clothing Steamer ($29.97 - Walmart and conaircanada.ca)
When I start packing, my clothes are neatly folded and orderly but when I arrive at my destination or travel to several cities/countries, everything is creased and crumpled. I don’t usually have the patience for ironing and direct heat can damage delicate fabrics.


The Conair Complete Steam has a compact design that is great for travel and quick touch-ups. The wide nozzle delivers high velocity steam that penetrates garments to smooth, freshen and de-wrinkle in minutes! Simply fill the water tank and press the power button for a steady stream of heat that can also be used on bedding and drapes to disinfect and kill dust mites. I like to steam the hotel pillows before bed to ensure they are safe to sleep on.

9. The Perfect Purse
I like to stay organized and keep my valuables protected so good luggage and durable travel bags are a great investment.

My favorite travel purse is the Poppy and Peonies Downtown Crossbody ($99.00 – poppyandpeony.com). It is spacious without being bulky and has lots of pockets with sturdy zippers and shiny gold accents. I love the removable tassels and the inner compartment has enough room for my tablet, camera, phone, wallet, beauty essentials and touristy things. The long strap slings comfortably across the body and can be positioned in front of you for quick access and pick-pocket protection.


10. Carry-On Bag
For weekend trips, short getaways and picnics, I love my Lug Via Travel Bag ($145.00 - luglife.ca) which is part tote and part backpack with detachable straps. This functional design has pockets everywhere including a zippered pouch for shoes, a smaller section for ID/business cards and an insulated pocket for food. It is also large enough for a few outfits, toiletries, water bottle and umbrella.


11. Repiel Korean Masks ($8.00 - beautella.ca)
Vacationing is fun but long flights, air pollution, greasy food and fatigue can wreak havoc on your complexion. The Repiel Perfect Fit Moisturizing Mask softens, smooths, diminishes blemishes, strengthens and protects dry skin with a combination of bamboo water, oriental dew drop, antioxidants, oils and coconut extract. There are a variety of formulas available to address specific concerns including: Firming (anti-aging), Soothing, Pore Solution and Daily Vit to brighten and improve texture.


12. Elizabeth Grant Caviar Cellular Recharge Super Eye Pads ($40.00 / 6 pack - tsc.ca)
My eyes always need a bit of pampering during and after an exciting trip so I pack a couple Elizabeth Grant Eye Masks enriched with hyaluronic acid to moisturize, refresh and energize. They also help smooth wrinkles and reduce puffiness so you look well rested and alert.

13. Korres Greek Yogurt Makeup Removing Wipes
($20.00 per 25 available at beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca)
Infused with vitamins, minerals, lush oils and proteins, these soft clothes eliminate stubborn foundation, eye shadow and waterproof mascara while moisturizing and revitalizing. Keep them in your carry-on to refresh your face during the flight.

14. Nourishing Skincare (arbonne.com)
When you’re trying to pack light, all-in-one products are your best bet. Arbonne’s Rejuvenating Cream ($52.00) is formulated with a long list of botanical emollients to soften every part of you. The luxurious oils, antioxidants and butters deeply moisturize your face, body and hair.


When traveling to hot humid climates, a good makeup setting spray is imperative! Let it Set ($45.00) keeps your face fresh, hydrated and shine-free while shielding pores from pollution and dirt. The mist dispenses in a light puff of liquid that cools, soothes and leaves skin feeling incredibly supple.

Hand cream is a staple in my purse and I always keep a tube in my office, car, living room and bedside table. Arbonne’s Shea Butter formula ($26.00) is gentle, non-greasy, fast-absorbing and ultra hydrating to heal dry skin on-the-go. It also treats ragged cuticles, brittle nails and chapping.

15. Logitech Keyboard - so I can get some work done on my iPad.

16. If you don’t have an e-reader or iPad, don’t forget a good book! A Thousand Splendid Suns is my favorite novel.

I have many other items on my list but these are just a few things that make my trip more enjoyable. What’s in your suitcase?

Tuesday, March 19, 2019

OGX Hydrating Body Care & Coconut Curls Finishing Mist

Lately I’ve been using a lot more body cream and nourishing oils because no matter how much I slather on, it never seems to be enough. The weather goes from bitter cold to slightly pleasant and back again. It’s like Mother Nature can’t make a decision and takes pleasure in our ashy elbows.

After another light snowfall it seemed like a good time to test my OGX Body Care. The formulas are loaded with natural emollients and the large bottles last a long time.


The Argan Oil of Morocco Extra Hydrating Body Wash ($8.99) is described as rich, creamy and decadent (just what I need this time of year). The silk proteins are supposed to make your skin feel soft, silky and smooth while gentle cleansing agents rinse away dirt, oil and pollutants.

I read a few reviews claiming that the brand has reformulated this product and apparently people aren’t too happy about it. Since I’ve only ever tried this version, I have nothing else to compare it to within the collection but no complaints here.


I really like the scent. It smells fresh and clean – similar to a wonderful shampoo that you can’t stop sniffing. Despite not having any harsh sulfates, the luscious gel lathers well on my bath puff and envelops me in fluffy bubbles that don’t dry out my skin or leave behind residue. Even on the coldest winter days, I am not rushing to dunk myself in cream after I towel off so I’d say the argan oil is working.

The Eucalyptus Mint Body Lotion ($8.99) smells like a spa or an essential oil diffuser - very botanical and natural. Infused with tea tree, peppermint and eucalyptus, the lightweight formula feels cooling, soothing and invigorating, especially after a relaxing shower. I like that it melts in quickly with no greasiness and leaves my skin feeling touchably soft all day. It’s no wonder this stuff sells out fast!


I also tried the Locking+ Coconut Curls Finishing Mist ($9.99) which tightens your tendrils and provides frizz-free hold without the crunch. It smells like a delicious tropical breeze and keeps my spirals neat, bouncy and shiny with no stickiness and minimal stiffness. I detect a hint of alcohol behind the sweetness (similar to hairspray) but it works well with my leave-in conditioners.


OGX is available at Walmart, Shoppers Drug Mart, Jean Coutu and Loblaws. Visit the website at ca.ogxbeauty.com

Friday, March 15, 2019

Mary Kay Spring 2019 Color Collection: Review and Swatches

Here in Toronto the weather went from -20˚C to 10˚C overnight so it’s safe to say that spring is just around the corner. To celebrate sunny skies and warmer weather, Mary Kay has launched a new collection of makeup to help you sculpt, highlight and accentuate your best features.


The Limited-Edition Lip Tints ($21.00 ea) were designed for versatility. They have a lightweight water-based formula that provides a vibrant splash of sheer buildable color.

The pigment applies effortlessly with a pointed precision applicator that glides around the lip contour to create the perfect shape and outline. For consistent coverage with minimal patchiness, allow each coat to dry before swiping on more color. Blotting seems to remove some of the excess and helps prevent seepage into your mouth. For best results, make sure your lips are exfoliated, clean and dry (no lip balm as it diminishes adhesion). The tints do not provide much moisture so don’t expect dryness relief or suppleness.


To intensify the color, apply several layers or use the tint as a primer to enhance lipstick. They smell great and look like felt markers – the kind you sniffed and colored with as a kid. Shortly after application there may be some transfer but the pigment is quite durable and lingers for a long time with gradual fading. The deeper shades (Desert Flora and Magenta) go on evenly but Canyon Coral is a tad spotty and removal may be tedious.

The packaging definitely needs more work. There is no way to manually saturate the applicator with more color so the felt will probably dry out quickly. There is also no way to tell how much pigment is actually in the tube so you're not really sure how much you're getting.

The illuminating Drops ($25.00) are reminiscent of a “desert glow” and can be worn on bare skin or over foundation for more dimension. They come in 3 shades to suit a variety of skin tones - Silver Sands, Golden Horizon and Bronze Light.


Apply a little or a lot (depending on the effect you want) and use a beauty blender to create a seamless natural finish. Unlike shimmery powders or glitter highlighters, this lightweight liquid does not settle on the skin’s surface or accentuate fine lines. On warm days, use it on your arms, shoulders, or décolletage for head-to-toe radiance!

After the winter we've had, my complexion definitely needs a boost and the new Mary Kay At Play Sticks ($17.00 ea) help you achieve the skin you’ve always dreamed of!

The contouring sticks come in 2 shades for light to medium skin and medium to deep. The colors are creamy, smooth and buildable but blend well to eliminate streaking.

The Rose Gold Highlighter Stick has a beautiful peachy sheen but if you over-blend the particles may disperse too widely. I like to apply a concentrated amount and pat lightly with my finger to adjust transparency.


There are also 2 correctors. Ditch Dullness has a lavender camouflage to conceal dark circles, bruises, blemishes and sallow/yellow undertones. Wipe Out Redness has a green tint to cover acne and rosacea.


I was really looking forward to some bright matte lip colors for spring but Mary Kay decided to go a different route with 3 Matte Nude Lipsticks ($20.00 ea) instead. The available shades are: Bellissimo (deep rosy nude), Perfetto (medium warmth) and Baccio (light beige).


I refer to these hues as true nudes because they are very flesh-tone. I prefer neutrals with more depth and maybe a splash of pink or a dash of cinnamon so I don’t look washed out. With the right eye makeup, I might be able to pull off Bellissimo because it brightens the face.

The formula is light, comfortable, creamy and buildable but you may need a few layers for full-coverage.

Last but not least we have another Magnetic Palette ($25.00 unfilled). This one has a stylish design for busy women on-the-go and you can customize it with your favorite pigments before slipping it in your bag or suitcase.



The spring collection is available at marykcay.ca and through independent consultants.
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