Make Up For Ever Matte Velvet Skin Full Coverage Foundation Review

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, I have difficulty finding foundation that matches my skin tone. At times I feel like throwing in the towel and accepting the fact that Ooompa Loopa orange or unnatural red will be a part of my life. When you have tanned skin in the medium range, many options are either too light or too deep and the spectrum in-between can be a long road of trial and error (mostly error).

Two brands I can always rely on without having to mix and match like a chemist is MAC (Studio Fix) and Make Up For Ever HD Foundation. These products have been my ride-or-die for years so when MUFE released a new formula I jumped on the bandwagon right away.

Matte Velvet Skin is described as “the new generation of liquid foundation” with serious full coverage that keeps shine in-check. Say goodbye to greasiness and hello to flawless skin that looks air brushed, fresh and healthy!

The rich liquid is oil-free and blends effortlessly with buildable coverage. It also camouflages blemishes and pigmentation issues to create a smooth, even canvass without clogging pores. If you don't have much to cover, it eliminates the need for concealer and I use it to mask dark under eye circles with no caking or creasing. It also works wonders on acne scars.

The tube is quite small for $48.00 (30 ml / 1.01 fl. oz) but it takes very little product to cover my entire face and the texture is lightweight, non-drying and comfortable.

Sometimes matte foundation can feel tight and restricting but thanks to a unique FLEXI-FIT mesh complex, the breathable liquid adapts to facial movement and resists cracking. I put it to the test at the Toronto International Film Festival - attending late night parties, press events and red carpet galas. Admittedly there was sweat, fatigue and improper skincare, but Matte Velvet held up all day (true to its 24 hr claim) with minimal transfer and no blotchiness, melting or fading. At the end of a hectic weekend, my makeup looked great and removal was a piece of cake.

The foundation is available in 40 shades so everyone can find a suitable match including me! I chose the same color as my HD foundation (Y445) and it works like a charm! No weird undertones, no oxidizing in sunlight and no irritation - just beautiful skin with a radiant glow. The scent isn't my favorite but it becomes less noticeable with wear.

If you suffer from dry skin and worry that matte foundation may appear flaky and rough, fear not. This formula adapts to your body chemistry without depleting essential moisture.

The MUFE Large Foundation Brush ($43.00) has soft, sturdy bristles that flex around the facial contour for seamless blending and precise, streak-free application. 

Make Up For Ever is available at Sephora and online sephora.ca

Rejuvenate Your Complexion with Cool NEW Face Masks from MaskerAide

When I got back from Florida last week, I was in desperate need of a facial. After crisping in the sun, I looked like a rotisserie chicken (you can’t hide from UV on the beach) and the humidity was wreaking havoc on my pores. I got home at 3 am, slept for 5 hours and still made it to a VIP beauty lounge for the Toronto International Film Festival the next morning. Sure the mimosas helped, but I needed some serious beauty treatments before attending any star-studded events.

After cleansing, exfoliation and an invigorating facial steam, I used my new MaskerAide Bubble Bubble Pop Charcoal Sheet Mask ($7.00) to deep clean and purify. The mask activates with oxygen, creating a layer of fluffy foam and the powerful ingredients eliminate blemish causing dirt, bacteria, pollutants and oil. It’s kind of fun to watch the bubbles form and the serum is loaded with tea tree, spirulina, apple amino acids, basil, ginkgo balboa, broccoli, alfalfa, kelp, plankton, protein and more! The mask is also free of parabens and artificial pigment.

For a healthy glow, the Rosé All Day Rose Gold Peel off Mask ($7.00) revitalizes the complexion with a blend of honey extract, royal jelly and real 24K gold flakes! I love the shimmering color and as you peel away the thin film, it feels like dirt, debris and impurities are being lifted out of your pores. The mask also firms, refines and gently uproots fine facial hairs for a smooth finish. After treatment, my skin feels soft, clean and thoroughly prepped for skincare or makeup.

The Crystal Clear Mini Sheet Masks ($7.00) are loaded with pearl extract, hyaluronic acid and niaciamide to fade dark spots, brighten dull areas, clarify and diminish acne scars. There are 12 crystals per pack so you can put them just about anywhere (face, shoulders, décolletage) for plump, luminous skin. The serum can be massaged in after treatment (no need to rinse) and you can really go to town on your problem areas by targeting certain spots. If you don’t use all 12 masks in one session, I recommend folding the package to lock-in moisture (I usually secure it with a paper clip) and seal it in a Ziploc bag. You can even pop it in the fridge for a cooling sensation.

Sweet Retreat ($7.00) contains 12 dessert themed mini sheet masks infused with vitamin C, A, B1 and B2 to smooth, replenish and moisturize. The vanilla cupcake scent smells delicious and the healing formula is ideal for dry, flaky skin. Since the masks are different sizes, you can play around with their placement for maximum coverage. After 20 minutes skin appears clear, bright and supple! If you want to get really creative, mix and match the crystals with the cupcakes and macaroons.

MaskerAide is available at London Drugs, H & M, Rexall and online at maskeraide.com.

Tōn Cosmetics Lipstick Review

Today I am featuring a brand that is completely new to me (which is rare since I’ve tried just about everything). This was my first experience testing Tōn Cosmetics and I’m quite impressed! For a lipstick lover, this collection is a dream come true! There is no eye shadow, blush, mascara or liner on the website, but what you will discover is a range of stunning color designed to compliment your unique complexion and style.

For those who have difficulty choosing a flattering shade of lipstick, Tōn is here to help. No more harsh undertones or washed-out neutrals. Simply take the test and be introduced to your lip color soul mate! The brand has developed 9 variations of each shade to ensure the best match. You will also notice that each color category (nude, red and pink) is divided into 2 subcategories (fair, medium, deep) and (cool, neutral, warm).

Each velvety shade is expertly crafted but the online test might need more work. My results were: medium complexion with a warm undertone (which sounds about right) but my matches were yellow undertones - orange, coral and brown. I didn’t really care for the lipsticks that were recommended and the nude was way too light. The second time, I adjusted one of my answers and the test chose favorable shades. There are not enough complexion options (photos of real women with varying skin tones may be more effective) and some questions were a bit difficult to answer. For example: “When you wear a white top, how does your skin look?” ...I never really noticed. Other questions are a bit vague - “what colors suit you best - pastels or brights?” I would have selected deep/sultry tones like plum, garnet, wine or burgundy (if that had been an option).

I decided to browse the collection and select the most eye-catching shades. Below (from left to right) I chose: Red Dark Cool 2, Pink Dark Neutral 3, Red Fair Cool 2, Pink Dark Warm 3 and Pink Dark Cool 3. I wish the lipsticks had cute, memorable names instead of classifications because if someone asks what I’m wearing, I probably won’t know.

My favorite thing about the formula is the lush, lightweight texture that glides on silky with buildable saturation and excellent coverage. The pigment feels smooth, comfortable, moist and hydrating with a hint of satiny shine that makes my lips appear voluptuous. It would be nice to have a few matte options but these gorgeous shades are perfect for all seasons and they seem to enhance my complexion and eye makeup.

Infused with nourishing shea butter and vitamin E oil, the rich pigments pamper and heal dry skin for a soft, healthy finish. They are also cruelty free with no parabens.

I wore the purple/pink lipstick (below) to a VIP Beauty Lounge yesterday and Steve Kassajikian (the global Makeup Artist for Urban Decay) loved it! So did everyone else :)

Considering the variety of wearable colors, most women will have no problem finding a signature shade in this collection. The lipsticks retail for $19.00 each and Tōn Cosmetics is available online at toncosmetics.com.

Lise Watier Stylo Haute Couleur High Coverage Lip Lacquer - Review & Swatches

Some brands create amazing products that are often overshadowed by popular trends and fads. Lise Watier’s lipsticks, gloss, stains and lacquers don’t get the recognition they deserve for such impeccable quality and rich color. The pigments are stylish, vibrant and comfortable with sophisticated packaging and luscious textures.

The Lacquers are available in 9 brilliant hues that compliment all skin stones. When you first use the pen, click the button several times to push the pigment down into the applicator (this may take a while so don’t give up!). The slanted tip helps distribute the color and outline the lip contour for smooth, even coverage and decent longevity.

I love how effortless, creamy and wearable these pigments are. I can gloss-up on-the-go without using a mirror and if your matte lipstick starts drying out, top it off with a layer of lacquer for instant juiciness and supple hydration.

The formula is lightweight, non-sticky and moist with a high-shine, voluptuous finish. Some shades are a tad sheer (but quite buildable) while others offer intense color payoff and dramatic vibrancy. No matter which color you choose, the lacquers have incredible luminosity with the versatility to take your look to the next level.

With autumn just around the corner, these sexy shades will compliment your fall wardrobe perfectly!

Lise Watier is available at Shoppers Drug Mart, Jean Coutu, London Drugs, Hudson's Bay and online at lisewatier.com.

Lise Watier Fall 2018 Haute Nature Collection: Review & Swatches

The sun is out, the birds are chirping and there is a cool breeze blowing through the trees. This is my first autumn post of the year and I’m excited to transition my makeup and embrace warm, sultry shades. (Goodbye humidity and hello fluffy scarves...I can’t wait!)

The Haute Nature Collection is packaged in elegant bronze casing splashed with a beautiful floral motif designed to look like a painting.

The Eye Shadow Palette ($48.00) combines the perfect balance of seductive neutrals and cool smokey tones to take your look from day to night. The colors are effortlessly chic and the velvety texture is ultra pigmented to deliver bold saturation and buildable coverage. Although they may look soft and neutral, the beautiful gold and deep bronze have a hint of shimmer to accentuate the eyes and add a pop of scintillating highlight. Lise Watier frequently releases understated palettes that are much more than they appear! The creamy color glides on smooth and consistent with no creasing or fading and the matte ivory looks great on the brow bone.

To amp-up these alluring shadows, use the Intense Waterproof Eyeliner ($24.00) on the lower and upper lash line. The burnt burgundy is trendy for fall and adds dramatic definition to make the eyes appear larger. The buttery pigment glides on evenly with no skipping, smudging or dragging and lasts all day! (Too bad it isn't retractable). 

The combination of gold shadow and red lips is very red carpet glam. For a night out gloss-up with the Gourmand Glow Hydrating Lip Balm ($23.00) with a hint of glistening shine. The sheer plum-wine compliments all complexions with a hydrating formula that keeps lips soft and comfortable. 

The Haute Nature Blush Trio ($35.00) illuminates, lifts and sculpts with three universal shades. The color payoff is quite faint so I mainly use it to highlight. More pigmentation would have been nice but the silky powder brightens dull skin for a natural glow.

Lise Watier is available at Shoppers Drug Mart, Jean Coutu, London Drugs, Hudson’s Bay and online at lisewatier.com.

CNE 2018 – Food, Shows and Events You Don’t Want to Miss

Well it’s that time of year again, the end of summer is near and the Canadian National Exhibition is buzzing with games, rides and delicious scents. As mentioned in last year’s guide – Tips for Visiting the CNE – How to Make the Most of Your Visit, I’ve been attending the Ex before I was tall enough to go on the big kid rides and I still look forward to it every year. For the fair's 140th anniversary there are delectable new treats to sample (usually deep fried and doused in sugar) plus brilliant exhibits that will knock your socks off!

One of my favorite new attractions is Legends of the Silk Road Lantern Display celebrating Chinese tourism. The 17 illuminated installations feature mythical scenes in a kaleidoscope of mesmerizing color.  

I couldn’t choose just one photo so get ready for a dazzling display of lights!

Aquarama is a fast-paced Vegas style show taking place on the lakefront. Performing on water skis is hard enough but these daring artists tackle jaw dropping pyramid formations (balancing on each other’s shoulders) and exhilarating aerial stunts that will leave you speechless.

All that excitement might make you hungry so head over to The Royal Crepe (just behind the ferris wheel and Orbiter ride) to try the mouth-watering Rainbow KitKat Crepe. This colorful French pastry is stuffed with creamy Nutella, KitKat bars, banana and strawberry. It also comes with a scoop of ice cream drizzled in various sauces (doesn’t get much better than this).

The crunchy Potato Spuds are still a midway classic, try them with a dusting of garlic powder or a dollop of ketchup.

The CNE is the place to satisfy your craving for wacky food concoctions like deep fried Mars Bar, frog legs, rainbow grilled cheese and chicken feet but this year they've kicked it up a notch by offering the mother of all burgers. For $100.00 you get a juicy patty crowned with a 24K gold bun. This edible mountain is available at Bacon Nation. 

Photo: Canadian National Exhibition

I always look forward to the Aerial Acrobatics and Ice Skating Show which is a magical mash-up of Cirque du Soleil and Stars on Ice.

The Sand Sculpture display is impressive and this year competitors from all over the world are showcasing their skills.

For more awesome sculptures check out the butter carvings done by hand!

There is also a new booth of animal figurines made entirely from recycled flip flops!

The Food Building is always jam packed with bizarre culinary combinations, new flavor fusions and hearty favorites. This year I tried the Stuffed Doritos from Farm to Fryer which were crispy and loaded with gooey cheese.

If you missed it last year, Frans is still cooking up their famous Thanksgiving Waffle stuffed with seasoned turkey and gravy.

At the CNE it seems mandatory to eat dessert with every meal and Chimney Stax serves delicious ice cream stuffed into sweet rotisserie baked bread.

Even if you don’t have a green thumb, the Nook of Gnomes is pretty neat. These 12 foot garden dwellers are crafted out of moss and colorful foliage.

After a morning of rides and games, head to the International Stage for a line-up of cultural performances or browse the Arts & Crafts Building to spruce up your decor. I found these beautiful handmade wood roses for just $1.00 each! 

The pavilions also have a wide selection of clothing, electronics, multicultural booths, appliances and more. The Farm Building offers educational activities and lots of adorable animals.

Food Truck Frenzy and Craft Beer Fest always draws me in for a second visit. My favorite is the butter chicken poutine but there are many scrumptious dishes to try (make sure to come hungry).

If aviation is your thing, don't miss the Air Show (Sept 1-3 Labour Day Long-Weekend).

Bandshell Concerts have always been a big hit at the Ex. Sit back, sip your beer and enjoy great music by internationally acclaimed artists.

The fun never ends at Busker’s Corner. Shows including captivating fire tricks, comedy, dance and acrobatics. 

Photo: Canadian National Exhibition 

For more information visit theex.com

Mary Kay 2018 Fall Collection – Makeup & Skincare

It has been very humid this summer so I am looking forward to cool weather and rich fall colors. Mary Kay’s new collection is all about Instagram-worthy brows with shades to suit every hair color and complexion.

We all know that thin brows are out and thick, luscious arches are in so May Kay has created a fool-proof system to help you achieve the fullness you crave. Start with the Precision Brow Liner ($16.00) and trace the natural contour for more definition. You can also use it to fill in sparse areas with short feathery strokes. The retractable pencil is available in 5 shades: blonde, dark blonde, brunette, dark brunette and black brown. The pigment is not very creamy but it glides on consistently with very little smudging.

Tip: Do a few strokes on the back of your hand first to loosen up the color for smooth application.

For more thickness and color, use the Volumizing Brow Tint ($16.00) and sweep it through the hairs while outlining with the applicator tip. The small spoolie delivers the perfect amount of pigment so that anyone can achieve bold, beautiful brows in under a minute! With just a few well placed strokes my brows look thick, defined and natural with minimal fading throughout the day. If you’re late for work, just brush on and go! The tint is available in 4 shades: blonde, dark blonde, brunette and dark brunette. (This will definitely be in my travel bag).

The Limited-Edition Gel Eye Liner ($19.00) with retractable brush is available in Espresso Ink and Ornate Orchid. Gels are ideal for people who don’t have the patience or dexterity for thin-tipped liquid liner. The brush is tapered so simply dip, draw and intensify (no fuss or mess). There are fewer mistakes and lines appear even. The deep purple has a metallic tinge to make the eyes pop while the brown compliments your autumn wardrobe. Smudge them under the lower lash line for a dramatic smokey effect. The formula is long-lasting and fade-proof so it stays put all day. 

To beat the stress and fatigue of a long hectic day, try the Reviving Facial Mist ($22.00). Infused with coconut water, vitamin B3 and a trio of energizing minerals, the formula awakens tired skin while cooling, moisturizing and invigorating. It feels refreshing after a gruelling workout and I keep it at my desk for a quick pick-me-up throughout the day. Spritz it on as a hydrating primer or use it to set makeup for up to 16 hours of staying power and smoothness. The scent is light and uplifting - like a tropical breeze.

Since I am currently packing for a trip, the Botanical Effects Hydrating Scrub ($21.00) is an essential for clear, renewed skin.

The formula is packed with:

*Dragon fruit extract - high in antioxidants, fatty acids, vitamin B, iron, calcium and phosphorus.

*Aloe (the most nutritious plant in the world) – with 20 minerals and 12 vitamins that promote cell turnover.

Along with buffing away dead surface cells, the gentle scrub also softens, smooths and hydrates with no sulfates, parabens, oil or fragrance.

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