NEW Maybelline SuperStay Full Coverage 24 Hour Foundation: Review & Swatches

Finding a foundation that matches my skin tone is like trying to find a needle in a haystack. I’ve tested a wide variety of brands and formulas from high-end to drugstore and everything in-between without much luck. Currently I’m using MAC’s Studio Fix Foundation which I’ve been relying on since I started wearing liquid makeup. It isn’t an exact match and tends to oxidize (deepen/change color) but it is the closest I’ve come to not looking like an Oompa Loompa or Flaming red Cheeto.  

You can imagine how excited I was to try the new SuperStay Full Coverage Foundation by Maybelline. The shade selection is good and the level of concealment is amazing! If you have blemishes that need hiding, the rich liquid blends smoothly and camouflages like a dream. For a natural look and seamless finish don’t cake it on too heavy - less is definitely more. I don’t even need concealer, the foundation dries completely matte clinging to the skin to boost longevity.

I have combination skin (oily in the summer, dry in the winter) and although the formula does not provide a lot of hydration it still feels quite comfortable. If you have dry skin I suggest applying a generous dose of moisturizer first.

This is the kind of foundation that will hold-up on hot summer days and resist fading during perspiration, physical activity and humidity but it was difficult to find the right undertone. The closest shades to my complexion are probably 334 Warm Sun and 330 Caramel Toffee but after testing both I suspect that 320 Honey (lighter than both of these) may actually work better.

In the photos these bottles look very similar but the colors are quite different. On the color spectrum Warm Sun comes after Toffee but actually appears lighter with a golden undertone. At first it seemed like a decent match but after layering and allowing it to dry, the pigment deepened (perhaps a little too much) and developed an orange tinge which was too warm for me. Caramel Toffee also appears lighter when first applied but after drying the foundation darkens substantially and is much deeper than my complexion.

To find your perfect match swatch and wait until the liquid is completely dry for best accuracy. If you find a shade that works grab it because for just $14.99 it provides a flawless finish.

Maybelline is available at major drugstores nationwide

Mark Rebel + Ice Bath & Body Collection by Avon

This season Avon is transporting you to the new South West with a collection of irresistible body products and fashion accessories inspired by tranquil blue skies. Rebel + Ice is fresh and invigorating with notes of cool mountain air, winter iris and white birch wood.

The pretty packaging, billowing scarf and crisp scent reminds me of sailing in Saint Tropez as the brilliant blue water sparkled beneath the sun and the Mediterranean wind whipped around the boat. 

After a long, cold day, relax with a warm shower and the Rebel + Ice Body Wash ($10.00) to soothe tired muscles and deeply cleanse. These fragrant shower gels (available in various scents) are some of my favorites from the brand because they lather well on my bath puff and create a lush foam that rinses away impurities without drying out the skin.

Follow up with the extra-rich Body Lotion ($10.00) that quenches, softens and heals dry skin with layers of silky hydration. This formula also works well on hands and feet or any areas that need more nourishment to combat frigid temperatures.

Finish with the energizing Body Mist ($14.00) which enhances the wonderful scent and lightly locks in hydration with castor oil.

The What a Scene Scarf ($18.00) has the same pretty print as the bottles featuring shades of blue and hints of crimson. This limited-edition set makes a great care package to help friends and family survive winter.

 Avon is available online at avon.ca or through independent consultants

Too Faced I Want Kandee Eye Shadow Palette Review & Swatches

Designing my own makeup line would be a dream come true and although many beauty influencers never get the opportunity to do so, Kandee Johnson has. With bright blue hair and a bubbly personality she has gained 1.7 million Instagram followers and has nearly 9 years of YouTube videos under her belt. Her Too Faced Palette collaboration is just as impressive featuring 12 shadows and 3 highlighters with shimmer, satin and matte finishes.

These color combinations are gorgeous! The first time I opened the pretty pink tin I couldn’t wait to use it. What I love most is how all the colors are expertly coordinated. You have shimmery Sweet Toffee paired with orangey matte Butterscotch, Frosted Pink with Hot Chocolate, Sugar Plum with Cocoa and Strawberry with Cream. There are pops of vibrancy balanced with neutrals and basics to create effortless contrast and definition. Anyone can use these shades and make them look fabulous whether you are just starting out with makeup or you’ve already established your style.

The highlighters at the bottom are a nice touch but the white tones are too similar. The palette could use a bit more variety in that area but it isn’t enough to downplay how amazing the pigments look. You get a lot of shadow yet the tin is travel-friendly with everything needed to transform your look from day to night.

The shadows are lightweight, creamy and highly saturated so they layer and blend wonderfully. The shimmers appear iridescent and metallic with smooth, radiant coverage that makes your eyes look mesmerizing. I can’t get enough of Sweet Toffee (second swatch from the bottom) it has become my new go-to shade.

The I want Kandee Limited Edition Palette retails for $45.00. I don’t see it online at the moment but you can always check the stores in your area.

Too Faced is available at Sephora, Ulta Beauty in the U.S. and online at toofaced.com

Erin Condren 2018 Life Planner Review & Design Tips for Beginners

I can’t believe Christmas is over and 2018 has begun. If I had my way we’d still be celebrating the holiday season but I’m excited to start planning and setting new goals. An awesome way to keep track of your dreams, ambitions and accomplishments is to record them so you can look back and reflect on cherished memories. For my birthday on Christmas Eve my sister got me an Erin Condren Life Planner (thanks Amanda) and she custom designed the cover with my name and favorite colors. It also includes pages of fun quotes, inserts and pretty graphics.

My life is busy but full of excitement and adventure so this planner is a wonderful keepsake. It also lets me express my creative side while infusing my love of art and scrapbooking. The process is surprisingly therapeutic, enjoyable and relaxing.

I didn’t realize just how large the planner community was until I started doing some research online. There are countless groups of planner addicts who come together to share fun ideas, stickers, accessories and printable decorations. I started with the Bando Planner last year which was good practice but the Erin Condren is definitely the ultimate organizational tool. I will use it to schedule my daily blog articles, work objectives, press trips, meals, media events, parties and other social events like girl’s night, romantic dates, shows and festivals.

My sister Mandy knows me better than anyone so she chose a bright multi-colored theme called Painted Petals that is brand new for 2018. This motif features sophisticated water colors that float across the thick, durable paper. It came with a detachable pocket where I keep stationary, cards, photos, planner accessories and loose stickers.

The inspirational messages dispersed throughout the book are motivational and uplifting plus there is a lot of room to make notes/lists.

My planner has the horizontal layout with a standard monthly box calendar for important point form notes/highlights. There is some debate about which layout is better (horizontal or vertical) but since I write a lot and journal important events this format works for me. I can elaborate on events that don't fit in the smaller boxes and utilize the entire planner.

The back has a double-sided pouch which can be used for tickets, travel documents and work plus I love the floral coloring pages that have recently become popular for managing stress.

The stickers that come with the planner are color coordinated to the theme which makes it easy to create beautiful layouts.

My sister also bought me colorful glitter pens and a book of cool stickers for scheduling, errands and other important dates and appointments. You can order these booklets online at Amazon, Happy Planner, Etsy or other craft supply websites. I purchase supplies at Michael’s or Staples but you can also find seasonal stickers and decorative tape at the Dollar Store. Just let your imagination be your guide.

I like the paper quality and vibrant colors but removing the rulers and other inserts from the coil binding is a bit tedious (maybe I’m not using the right technique). The website has many design options available to help build your planner and reflect your personal style.

I use my Bando Planner from last year to experiment and establish my decorating style. Don’t feel discouraged if your first pages don’t turn out the way you hoped, it may take a while to get your groove.

My first layout for January 2017 was pretty terrible. I was overwhelmed with all the stickers and themes and had no idea what I was doing but after a few months I started getting the hang of it.

This is my first layout for January 2018. It isn’t finished since the month just started but I’ve decided I prefer a look that is fun yet not too busy. I usually have something planned everyday so I save space to write. I focus more on decorating the monthly view instead of the weekly horizontal layout because there are 8 pages in January alone and I just don’t have time to beautify and color coordinate each one.

I am still very new to planner design but I will list a few tips that helped me get started.

1. Do Your Research

I knew my layout wouldn’t be top-notch right away but I still wanted it to look neat and cute. I began by looking up photos online and skimmed social media for ideas to determine what I like. After that I watched a few plan with me tutorials on YouTube to see how other people develop their spreads and where to start placing things. I got the idea to do a New Years Eve countdown from a photo on Google.

2. Start Simple and Visualize

I’ve collected a few sticker books and supplies but I still don’t have a ton of accessories. I don’t create or print my own stickers nor do I have themed collections that I can whip out every day. I simply use what I have and decide on a theme that coincides with a major event or holiday. In this case I chose black and gold for NYE with pops of pink and shimmer. Washi Tape helps tie everything together.

The issue I had with my previous planner was lack of vision. It helps to conceptualize your design prior to sticking everything down randomly which can look a bit messy. Keep in mind that you don’t have to decorate your planner but it is fun.

3. Plan Ahead

Usually I schedule everything into my iPad digitally so it is easy to move things around. Since I got the new Rose Gold iPad Pro for Christmas I will be using that to plan ahead so I know which days to decorate first. You can also use sticky notes for this or the small purse size planner that is included with your Erin Condren. Give yourself enough time and don’t rush the process.

4. Keep Designing as the Month Progresses

You don’t have to finish everything in one sitting, plan as things come up and change your design accordingly.

5. Don't get Discouraged

It is great to get tips and ideas from other people but don’t compare your pages to theirs because everyone has their own style and preferences. It may take a while to develop your technique.

The Erin Condren Planners start at $55.00 + $8.00 for customized covers and additional charges based on which inserts and extras you choose. Many Canadians may be deterred from ordering because shipping costs are expensive and easily add up to $100.00. Another popular option is the Happy Planner which is available at Michael's and Staples. For more information you can visit the website erincondren.com.

MyChelle Skincare Review

2018 has commenced and many of us are making resolutions to better ourselves physically, spiritually and emotionally. One goal that should be on everyone’s list this year is healthy skin so today I’m sharing my new beauty routine using MyChelle.

I test and review a lot off skincare but to see visible results I used this collection everyday for a few weeks to give each product time to work. If you haven’t heard of MyChelle their philosophy is simple – combine advanced bioactive ingredients with high efficacy anti-aging peptides, stem cells and clinically proven dermatological components to yield amazing results. You can expect clean, ethically sourced products and targeted treatments that provide professional results. The line is free of harmful chemicals including: parabens, gluten, petroleum, artificial color and fragrance plus they are cruelty free and vegan.

I customized my routine based on my skin’s requirements and since I love a good face mask I chose the Clear Skin Cranberry Mud ($32.00) – a blemish fighting, detoxifying mask. This potent blend contains 3 types of clay to refine pores, absorb excess oil and reduce the occurrence of breakouts for clear, healthy skin. The formula is loaded with nourishing ingredients like Green Tea, Lilac, Grape, Rosemary, Honeysuckle, Jasmine, Lavender and many other essential oils, extracts and proteins that fortify and protect.

Another mask I love is the Fruit Fiesta Peel ($28.00 U.S). This is a great treatment to use when your complexion looks dull and tired. After all the rich holiday food and partying, I think we can all use a little pick-me-up for the New Year and this formula is infused with Alpha Hydroxy and fruit acids that rejuvenate and revive. After a few minutes I notice a mild tingling sensation (which is completely normal) and after rinsing my face is radiant and refreshed.

I usually incorporate some type of brightening product in my skincare routine to achieve an even, luminous complexion – not to be confused with skin lightening. These products do not alter your natural skin tone they boost and brighten to promote a lovely glow. The Perfect C Pro Serum ($65.00) is my favorite product in the brightening line. It has a 25% Vitamin C concentration which is professional-grade and very high in antioxidants that help renew and correct skin tone. It also reduces visible signs of aging while strengthening and improving resiliency against environmental damage.

The Apple Brightening Cream ($35.00 U.S.) is all about balancing and evening. It helps diminish the appearance of blemishes, scars, hyperpigmentation and age spots with anti-pollution properties. Like all of the products from MyChelle, this non-greasy formula is packed with natural fruit extracts, oils and antioxidants for smooth, supple results. The scent is quite strong and reminds me of apple cider vinegar (not very pleasant) so I prefer to use it before bed for deep hydration.

If your main objective is simply to replenish and moisturize then I recommend the Deep Repair Cream ($39.00). This rich, botanical blend is perfect for resurrecting dry winter skin, alleviating discomfort and healing rough, peeling patches. The star ingredients are Rosehip, Black Currant Oil, Kombuchka Tea and Vitamin B for anti-aging benefits, youthful vitality and incredible softness that lasts all day.

The Apple Brightening Serum ($45.00 U.S.) is similar to the Apple Cream with a lighter texture so choose the finish you prefer. Sometimes I layer both formulas to create a fabulous night mask or mix and match with other products depending on my needs. With repeated daily use I began noticing a difference in the clarity of my complexion but it takes time.

Before snuggling into bed for your beauty sleep don’t forget to pat on some eye cream, it will help you look well rested and energized in the morning. The Magnolia Fresh Treatment ($37.00) is a light, refreshing gel that melts in and hydrates haggard eyes. It also brightens dark circles, decreases puffiness and improves the look of fine lines – pretty much everything you’d want in a good eye cream.

For more immediate results you can always rely on the Clear Spot Treatment ($19.00) – a powerful cream that stops breakouts in their tracks, diminishes discoloration, cleans pores, absorbs oil and smooths so you can get on with your day. 

MyChell is available at Murale, beautyboutique.ca and mychelle.com

Please note that the products with U.S. pricing are not currently available in Canada

Urban Decay Troublemaker Mascara Review

The holiday season is over and it’s time to get back into our regular routine but that doesn't mean settling for dull, barely-there lashes. As someone who has a ton of mascara (most of which I’ve never opened) I only feature a new formula when I absolutely love it. I have no patience for gluing on falsies and usually I triple or quadruple layers to achieve the length and volume I crave.

I’ve been testing Troublemaker for a few months now and it’s been the only mascara in my makeup bag. I only have about 5 or 6 all-time faves when it comes to wands and pigment but this beauty definitely makes the list. Yes the packaging plays into our insatiable urge to buy everything mermaid themed but it’s not just about the pretty chrome tube, the brush delivers 13.5X the volume for an intense, fluttery effect. The spindly bristles grab and separate each hair (even the bottom lashes and corners) while combing them up and out for a natural fanned-out look. There is no clumping or heaviness, in fact I use this brush to de-clump my lashes after using other mascaras that leave behind ugly black chunks.

The deep pigment is highly saturated yet lightweight so I am able to use multiple layers for consistent coating and dramatic length. Vitamin E helps nourish, condition and prevent flaking while special polymers enhance adhesion for long-wear with no smearing or smudging. UD designed this mascara with a 3D thickening + multiplying effect to create the illusion of more eyelashes and who doesn’t love that!

Urban Decay is available at Sephora, UD Boutiques, Shoppers Drug Mart, beautyboutique.ca and urbandecay.ca 

Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint Review & Swatches

If you’ve obtained a few pieces of Rihanna’s new makeup collection then consider yourself lucky. The Fenty Beauty isle at Sephora is usually sold out of product and is so crowded that I almost lost an arm helping my mom find a foundation. Even the samples mysteriously disappear as women desperately try to get their hands on coveted items.

Very few beauty brands have created so much excitement on a global scale. In fact when I was in Madrid Spain this September there was a huge Fenty billboard in Puerta del Sol – the busiest square in the city.

It is no surprise that Fenty Beauty is such a success. It seem that everything Rihanna touches turns to gold and fans can’t get enough of her catchy lyrics, edgy style and bold pigments. Admittedly I’ve held off on trying anything from the collection until the chaos dies down but this Christmas I received the most talked about lip product on social media – Stunna.

This pigment is a bright bombshell red that definitely turns heads and not to toot my own horn but this color looks amazing on me...as it does on everyone else. The packaging reminds me of the Christian Louboutin makeup line with a long stiletto cap and a base that resembles nail polish. You get a lot of product for $24.00 and you don’t need much to achieve complete coverage.

What makes this liquid lipstick so popular is the rich saturation that feels incredibly lightweight yet shows up vivid and dramatic with a sophisticated matte finish that is very wearable. The formula glides on effortlessly, in fact this is probably one of the easiest lipsticks to apply. It literally took a few seconds to achieve a perfectly sculpted pout and I barely feel it on my lips (way to go RiRi).

The Defining Precision Wand makes it super easy to drench your lips in intense color that last up-to 12 hours without feathering or bleeding. The finish is consistent and low maintenance requiring very few touch-ups and it even lasts through meals and cocktails making it the ideal shade for an evening out. I love the applicator, it helps line and accentuate to create that plump, poutiness we all crave.

Although this is a matte formula that doesn’t appear to provide much hydration it somehow keeps my lips comfortable and smooth with just enough moisture to prevent dryness, flaking and chapping. I love this lipstick so much that I might brave the elbowing crowds and venture into Sephora to swatch some more makeup.

5 Tips for Surviving Cold & Flu Season

It might start with a suspicious tickle in the back of your throat or a few sneezes and a runny nose but when a nasty cold knocks you off your feet, life seems to come to a standstill.

It’s that time of year again, the temperature drops and we all become more susceptible to the viruses that plague our communities. Earlier this year when the remnants of last winter were still lingering, I contracted the worst flu I’ve ever experienced. I was too weak to get out of bed and fever wracked my body for day after miserable day. Since then I’ve been sick a couple times which tends to happen with frequent travel but recently my colds have been much less severe. I’ve been fighting back with everything in my pantry and today I’m sharing a few coping techniques that have proven useful.

1. Get Lots of Sleep

This may seem obvious but it may be your immune system’s best line of defense. When I’m sick and weak I drop everything (as hard as that is to do) and sleep as much as possible. If you have to stay in bed for most of the day or even several days then do so and tune out the world around you to recuperate. Try not to stress about work or responsibilities because it can be counterproductive to your health. Just relax and let your body fight for you, if not illness may be prolonged.

2. Strengthen Your Immune System Everyday

Since I started taking immune boosters like Emergen-C (which has more Vitamins C than 10 oranges) I’ve noticed that my colds are shorter in duration and less severe. I take immune boosters and vitamins everyday (not just when I’m sick) and overtime they strengthen my system so that when a virus hits I am better able to fight it off and recover. To read my article on immune supplements click HERE.

It is also a good idea to consume nutritious foods that are high in antioxidants to regain your strength. Drinking healthy smoothies loaded with leafy greens is an easy way to get your fruits and veggies when your appetite and energy is compromised or make a delicious salad. 

I call this creation the energy booster salad. It contains arugula (my favorite), blueberries for a boost of antioxidants, green onion, tomato, mandarin orange, cucumber, sunflower seeds, cheese, avocado and chicken breast. Sometimes I add egg for extra protein and drizzle with a fig balsamic dressing.  

3. Over-The-Counter Meds

Cough and cold meds contain antihistamine and pain relievers that help you cope with the worst symptoms. To break a fever I find Neocitran particularly helpful and to aide with sleep NyQuil is great. It also helps relieve congestion which is the worst! For a sore throat I usually opt for Cepacol Lozenges which numb and soothe with medicinal ingredients.

Please note: Before taking any medications you should consult your family physician. This article is not intended to replace medical advice.

4. Hot Showers, Hot Liquids and Natural Ingredients

You may already know that hot, steamy showers help loosen chest and nasal congestion while relaxing achy muscles but nothing beats hot homemade soup. Warm liquids help rid the body of disgusting mucus build-up that causes stuffiness and coughing.

I usually opt for natural teas with freshly grated ginger or hot water with lemon and organic honey to help eliminate bacteria.

Gargling with mouth wash which contains antiseptic also seems to help reduce the germs and viral symptoms that plague mucus membranes in the mouth and throat. Gargling with warm salt water throughout the day soothes irritation.

Instead of Vicks Vapour Rub I use natural peppermint oil from Saje which can be rubbed around the nostrils, on the chest or put in a facial steamer with water to open the airway.

A humidifier can also help add moisture to the air and natural saline sprays clear the throat and nose to reduce inflammation (I use HydraSense).

5. Spicy Foods

For me eating spicy food is pretty easy because I cook a lot of Indian dishes and I love lots of flavor. It doesn’t have to be a specific type of cultural cuisine (any heat and spice will do) but these foods help break down mucus so you can expel it from the body. Think about it – have you ever eaten a hot, delicious dish that made your nose run? Well that’s because the spice was thinning the mucus and chilli has anti-viral benefits.

I hope this helps, dress warm and stay healthy this winter :)

Too Faced Peach Kiss Lipstick Review

I rarely review just 2 shades of lipstick but these stunners are my favorite colors in the Peach Kiss Collection. I usually opt for rich, glamorous hues that are deep and sultry or bright and show-stopping even though everyone seems obsessed with nude lips at the moment.

No matter what your complexion you can’t go wrong with something in the berry or plum spectrum and Drunk Dial has a flattering blend of pink and purple tones. The peach and sweet fig scent is delicious and the creamy formula glides on full-coverage, ultra-lightweight, smooth and moisturizing for long wear and comfort.

Stop Traffic is perfect for every occasion – think of it as your power color that evokes confidence and high-fashion with every strut you take. This is a red that all women can wear since there are no harsh orange or blue undertones. The dramatic matte finish is nicely balanced without being too bright or dark and red lips are totally on-trend for the holiday season. Both lipsticks are highly saturated for intense color payoff that doesn’t dry out or flake.

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