Product Review: E.L.F. Mineral Moisturizing Lip Tint in Blush

Hey Dolls,

I ordered some E.L.F. items a few weeks ago when they were having a free shipping for orders $25 or more deal (LOVE that promo), and I simply could not pass it up. So, make sure to stay tuned for other upcoming E.L.F. reviews. I have so much to share with you all.

Today, I am showing you all one of the E.L.F. Mineral Moisturizing Lip Tints ($3.00). The color I chose was blush.

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I would describe Blush as a pink-coral. But it definitely leans more towards pink once applied on the lips. It contains small hints of gold shimmer/glitter. The texture is not gritty, and they are not prominent when applied. The E.L.F. Mineral Moisturizing Lip Tints are free of parabens, chemical dyes, and preservatives. They are also infused with Shea, jojoba, coconut, and vitamin E-all great contributors when it comes to moisturizing. But what I really love is that these contain an SPF of 8! Extra sun protection is always greatly appreciated.

I really like the packaging. It feels sturdy, and it's really sleek-looking. The lip tint stick is a lot thinner than I expected it to be. I admit, sometimes I am often worried that during application, it may break off. Here is to hoping that doesn't happen. I am happy to report that this lip tint packs quite a punch of color. When I think of lip tints, I always figured that the hint of color would be more subtle, and not really noticeable. The gorgeous pink hue I received from Blush, was a pleasant surprise. 

This lip tint glided on very smoothly, and my lips never felt dry during the time I had it on. Blush lasted a good 2-3 hours, before the color faded and I had to re-touch again. The sheen this lip tint imparts is lovely, and I really liked the fact that I could layer as much of this lip tint on, and my lips would never feel dry and/or start to flake.

My only issue with blush was that, the color settled into my lip lines. If you look at the lip swatch picture below, you will see on my lower lip how it managed to settle in the lines. I was surprised this occurred because, printed on the packaging was how this lip tint "diminishes the appearance of fine lines...." For me, I don't think it really lives up to the claim. Well, unless you have lips that don't have numerous lines on them. I did not notice a scent to this lip tint, but it does have a taste. If you find yourself licking your lips throughout the day, it would be pretty hard to avoid the sweet taste.

Lip swatch of Blush

Arm Swatch of Blush

Ingredients

I am quite impressed with this Mineral Moisturizing Lip Tint from E.L.F. I will definitely be picking up some more colors in the near future. The price is right, and I think these are great to just pop in your purse, and carry around when you are on the go. 

What do you all think of E.L.F. Mineral Moisturizing Lip Tints? 

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned above. I purchased this product for my personal use. 

Product Review: Olay Professional Pro X Advanced Cleansing System

I have been longing for a Clarisonic for many years. As you all can imagine, the only factor that's prohibiting me from owning one is the high price tag. I believe that skin care is so important, and one's face care should be a great investment, but I just can't shell out the $195 price tag. Not even for the Clarisonic MIA, which is relatively less expensive.

I was at Duane Reade last week and while browsing the skincare isle, I spotted the Olay Professional Pro X Advanced Cleansing System ($30.00). I purchased it right away. I did not even hesitate. The price was right, and I thought it was time to take my skincare routine up a notch. Purchasing this was probably one of the greatest decisions I ever made. (note: I don't own the Clarisonic, so I can't compare the two)

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Olay Professional Pro X Advanced Cleansing System

When I got it home, I wanted to immediately put this cleansing brush to the test. I felt like a little kid opening up a present, LOL! That's how excited I was. Before I begin the review, I want to give you all a short background on my skin. I have dry, sensitive, and acne prone skin. Seriously, any new product can trigger acne on my skin-especially if my skin does not agree with it. Whenever my face is having an acne outburst, I rely on a cleanser that contains acne-fighting ingredients. For the most part, I try to be careful with the skincare products that I use, and look for oil-free and gentle, cleansers and scrubs. 

First Impression/Packaging

When I opened the box, included in the kit was a cleansing facial brush, two batteries, and a mini-sized Olay exfoliating renewal cleanser. I first proceeded to insert the two included AA batteries (very nice inclusion), into the cleansing handle. In order to do this, I had to get a good grip and pull apart the handle and the tip of the handle. I admit, I struggled quite a bit. I am sure you are all far less-clumsier than I am, and could probably snap this handle apart in no time. Three minutes later, and the separation was complete. I inserted the batteries, attached the brush head to the sturdy handle (very easy to do-just snap it on), and turned it on.

On the handle, you will find two press-on buttons. The larger one on the top, is the on/off button, while the one below that is the 2-speed button. Press it once to make the bristles rotate slower, or press a second time to make the bristles rotate a bit faster. I really like this 2-speed feature a lot. It is always a good thing when we have options available, that better suit our different skin needs, and unique tolerance levels.

Product Performance/Results

"Cleanses 6x better and helps maximize the immediate hydrating effectiveness of your anti-aging moisturizer."-Olay

I always wondered if just using my hands to clean my face, was actually really effective at removing all the makeup and gunk on it. It may be, but I think my skin was craving a little more TLC when it came to a deeper cleansing experience. I tried this product with a number of cleansers. I am pretty sure that any cleanser of your choosing, will work just fine along with this system. I did use it with the included mini-sized Olay Pro X Exfoliating Renewal Cleanser, and it did a good job at cleansing and making my face feel clean. It did not cause my skin to react, and I did not detect a strong fragrance. But, I don't think this cleanser is anything special for it to warrant a full size purchase. The sample inclusion was a nice touch, though. 

There are two cleansers that I alternate between, while using this cleansing system. The first one is the Philosophy Purity Made Simple Cleanser, and the second one is the Olay Foaming Face Wash (Sensitive Skin). The later is the cleanser that I enjoy the most. Both cleansers are gentle on my skin, and I feel that along with this Olay cleansing system, both do a great job deep cleaning my face and really taking it to another level. 

Left To Right: Philosophy Purity Made Simple, Olay Foaming Face Wash (Sensitive)

Now, let's talk about how I put this cleansing system to use. First, I splash my face with some warm water and massage the cleanser all over my face with my hands. Then, I take the Olay cleansing brush and wet it with water (don't worry, the system is water-resistant), and start moving the spinning brush around my face in circular motions for about 1 minute or so. My speed preference is the gentler/slower setting. I have experimented with the faster speed and it works just as well, but I prefer the slower speed just because my skin is super sensitive. While rotating, the bristles do not feel rough on my skin, and the they allow flexibility which is always nice. I have to say that the brush does a great job at lifting all of the gunk off of my face. After I am done cleansing, I rinse my face with warm water and pat dry. I use the cleansing system twice a day, morning and night.

Before I start cleansing, I remove my makeup with a makeup removing cleansing cloth, and you would think that is enough to get all of your makeup off. But it really isn't. I am amazed at how much leftover makeup appears on the Olay cleansing brush, after I am done using it. I really feel that I am getting a really deep down-to-the pore cleaning with this system. And I am really happy about that. After use, I just rinse the brush with some warm water, and I make sure to use an anti-bacterial soap to quickly disinfect the bristles. Olay recommends replacing the brush head every 3 months, or so. The replacement brush heads are not really expensive. If I remember correctly, I spotted a 2-pack for $11? 

After I rinse my face, I can immediately tell the difference on my skin. My face feels so much smoother, cleaner, fresher....like it can breathe! I have not been breaking out as much as usual, my skin tone is much more even, and my moisturizer really does absorb into my skin better. When it comes to my pores, I really don't notice much of a difference in size, but they do feel a bit cleaner. I have had nothing but great experiences with this system. I'm even going to go far, as to say that it has made a great impact on my skin. I have only been using this cleansing system for about 2 weeks. But I really believe that my skin will keep on improving. If anything goes wrong down the road, I will be sure to update this post. But as of now, the future looks bright for my skin, thanks to the Olay Professional Pro X Advanced Cleansing System.

Final Notes/Thoguhts

Although I LOVE this Olay cleansing system, there are a few issues I encountered. First, the semi-struggle to pull apart the handle to insert the batteries. But I digress-since it was totally worth it. Next, I really like the clean and simple look of the system, it would be really cool if more color options were available. I like simple, but I am a sucker for color. Also, the inclusion of a brush stand would have really been more practical. Boo! Lastly, I wish the system was a little more less-noisy. When the brush spins, it's such an annoying buzz-like sound. The noise actually reminds me of a tooth drill that dentists use *shivers*. I don't know if this noise thing is something that can't be helped, but a more soothing sound would have been more preferred.

Overall, I totally recommend this cleansing system from Olay. It is simply amazing, and you cant beat the affordable price. I can't rave about it enough. I want to mention that, everybody's skin is different. And what works for me, may not work for someone else. But, I still think this product is worth a try. Maybe in the future I will actually have the means to shell out the money for a Clarisonic, but I don't think it will happen anytime soon because, Olay has made me a very happy girl. Score!

What do you all think of the Olay Professional Pro X Advanced Cleansing System? Have any of you tried it? Thinking of trying it? Please, share in the comments!

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned above. I purchased this product for my personal use.

Nail Of The Day: Zoya-Shay

I am a big fan of Zoya nail polishes. I have been accumulating quite a few, and I have not been disappointed yet. When I received my July Birchbox, I was excited to see that included was a mini-sized, Zoya nail color. Not only that, but a nude one at that. As you may, or may not know, I have been on a nude nail polish kick lately. It's something about nude nail colors that just looks so elegant, and simple.

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Zoya-Shay

Shay: Two coats applied, no topcoat.

Shay was just one of the three nail colors, from the Zoya Touch Collection. I would describe Shay as a beige/peach, that contains small, fine silver shimmers. The shimmers aren't overly prominent on the nails, though. Application was superb. I got opaque coverage with just one coat! But as usual, I like to apply two, to help even everything out. I experienced no streaks (which can be a common problem, when it comes to nude nail colors), and drying time was relatively quick. 

I love the metallic finish shay gives off, but what I really love is the fact that Zoya nail polishes are 4 free. You wont find toluene, camphor, DBP, or formaldehyde in Zoya nail colors!

What do you all think of Shay? What are your favorite Zoya nail colors? 

Have a great day, dolls! I gotta get ready for school! *_*

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned above.

Product Review: Wet n' Wild Mega Last Lip Colors

I think it's safe to say that I am a lipstick-lover! It is no secret that MAC lipsticks are my preference. But, it is always convenient when you can find drugstore items, that work just as well as the higher-end stuff. I hardly purchase drugstore lipsticks, but I could not resist the urge to purchase a few of the Wet n' Wild Mega Last Lip Colors ($2.99 each). Wet n' Wild hardly-if at all, disappoints. And for the most part, these lipsticks did not let me down.

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From left to right: Bare It All (902C), Smokin' Hot Pink (905D), and Think Pink (901B)

Bare It All

Bare It All is a neutral toned peachy brown. This color applies evenly, and I have been using it nonstop lately. I usually shy away from nude colors like this, that are on the much warmer end of the spectrum. I am happy to report that fear is long gone! Bare it all actually compliments my skin tone very nicely. I think Bare It All would be a great nude lip color for all skin tones. Love! A similar lip color to this one, would be MAC's Shy Girl lipstick. Bare it All is a bit more warmer, though. 

Smokin' Hot Pink

Smokin' Hot Pink is a gorgeous bright, fuchsia pink. Now, colors like this are right up my alley. This lip color sort of reminds me of MAC's Girl About Town lipstick. But, I would say that Smokin' Hot Pink is a tad bit brighter. This color applied really smooth, and evenly. If you are looking for a bright, hot pink lipstick that is affordable, I think Smokin' Hot Pink would be a lip color you may want to look into.

Think Pink

Think Pink is a pretty, milky baby pink color. I really love this color but to be quite honest, this color is the most troublesome when it comes to application-at least for me. I can't emphasize enough, that your lips have to be very well prepped for this color. If I have any dryness or flakes on my lips, this lip color will emphasize those sorts of problems. It helps a bit to put a moisturizing lip balm underneath, but flake-free lips are a must, nonetheless. I wonder if Think Pink is similar to MAC's Saint Germain lipstick? That color has been on my beauty list for quite some time. From swatches that I have seen online, Saint Germain seems to be a bit cooler.

Swatches from left to right: Bare It All, Smokin' Hot Pink, and Think Pink

Overall, I am really quite happy with these lip colors from Wet n' Wild. The colors are richly pigmented, and a little goes a long way for achieving an opaque outcome. I like the lightweight feel, and it's awesome that these lip colors contain vitamins A and E to help moisturize lips.

Lasting power is not so bad either. It is not until 3-4 hours later, that I need to retouch the color. It's interesting because, in the tube these colors looked like they would apply matte, but there is a creaminess to these colors that makes the finish out to be semi-creamy matte. The matte is still there, along with the creaminess that allows a hint of shine to peek through.

I want to mention that although I like the sleek packaging, these lipsticks don't twist all the way down. The tip of the lipsticks stick out, which makes it an issue when it comes to sliding the top back on. I have nicked the lipsticks quite often. I just try and slide the top back on as slowly as possible to prevent further damage, LOL! 

What do you all think of the Wet n' Wild Mega Last Lip Colors? 

Have a great weekend, Dolls!


Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned above. I purchased these products for my personal use only.

August Favorites!

I hope you are all having a very relaxing day. I just got home from school, and I am beat! I have so much work coming up ahead, it's crazy. But hey, it's my last semester so I think I can handle and put up with it, LOL! Can you believe that we are in September already? The months are just flying by, don't you think?

Anyway, I want to share with you all my August favorites. Hera ya' go!

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1. Smashbox Lip Enhancing Gloss in Baby Pout- This gloss was included in a Smashbox holiday lip gloss set, I purchased last winter. I have really come to love Smashbox lip glosses. My experience with them have been superb. I love how smooth they go on, they feel lightweight on my lips-not sticky at all, and the best part is that they don't emphasize any flakes or dryness. Love!

Baby Pout is a creamy soft pink, that contains gorgeous gold, blue, and green shimmers. The shimmers are not overly prominent on the lips, though. I just love the shine and look of my lips, after I apply Baby Pout. Actually, now that I think of it, Baby Pout sort of reminds me of MAC's Dazzleglass in Baby Sparks. They are a bit similar, but Baby Pout is definitely more toned down, and the shimmers are less noticeable. Be on the lookout for an upcoming post, in where I share with you all some other Smashbox glosses that I currently own. They really are amazing.

2. Maybelline Fit Me Foundation in #210- I think it is pretty obvious by now that I am going through a love affair with Maybelline's Fit Me Foundation. I have been using it non-stop, almost all summer. I don't think I will ever get tired of the way this foundation looks on my skin. But a new foundation has entered my life, and it's really making a good impression on me. I will share in a few weeks which foundation it is :) Stay tuned! Oh, and click HERE to read my Maybelline Fit Me Foundation review.

3. Urban Decay Primer Potion in Eden- I have the original Urban Decay Primer Potion and while I do like it, I think I prefer the one in Eden a bit more. I like Eden because, the primer contains yellow tones which work wonderful for cancelling out my brown discoloration on my eye lids. This primer dries matte, and it holds my shadow in place for a good while. Click HERE for my review on Urban Decay Primer Potion in Eden.

4. NYX Eye Pencil in White- I have been using this NYX eye pencil to line my lower waterline. Applying white eyeliner to the waterline is a great trick to help widen the eyes, and make them appear brighter and more awake-looking. This pencil is a life-saver on those mornings when I am super sleepy and tired. Ahhh, the life of a college student.

5. Wet n' Wild Mega Last Lip Color in Bare It All, #902C- A more in depth review on this-and other Wet n' Wild Mega Last lipsticks, is in the works. In the meantime, let me just say that this color is probably my most favorite. It's a neutral that I think will compliment most skin tones. I like that it does not enhance any dryness on my lips, and it goes on really smooth. When it comes to lipsticks, I count on MAC. But this is a really nice affordable option.

What were your August favorites? 

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned above. I purchased these products for my personal use. 

Product Review: Rite Aid Renewal Angled Blush Brush

While browsing the cosmetics isle at Rite Aid, I spotted some face and eye brushes from Rite Aid's Renewal brand. I believe that these are new releases from Rite Aid. I did not even know that they had their very own cosmetics brand. Curiosity got the best of me, and I decided to pick up the Rite Aid Renewal Angled Blush Brush ($7.99), to try out. I was certainly not disappointed.

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Rite Aid Renewal Angled Blush Brush

I don't own an angled blush brush, but I know that they are amazing for contouring, and applying blush at just the right spot. I was really excited when I read that the brush hairs are indeed "animal friendly synthetic bristles". I love when companies keep the well being of animals in mind. The brush feels very sturdy, and I like that the bristles are tightly packed in the ferrule. I also love how the bristles feel super soft against my cheeks. Because the bristles are synthetic, it allows for a superb blending experience. 

This blush brush picks up just the right amount of product and voila', blushing and contouring has never been easier. It practically does the work for you, since you don't have to work so hard to blend the product into your skin. Even the brightest of blushes don't have anything on this Renewal Angled Blush Brush. You get the most natural-looking color, that never looks overdone. Another great thing is that the bristles have not shed a single hair! They are still all in tact.

According to the packaging, this brush also works wonders with liquid and gel products as well. I can't really vouch for this statement, since I have only tried this brush with my powdered blushes and bronzers. But honestly, I don't doubt that this brush works for cream and gel products just as well as it works for my powdered products. 

Overall, this blush brush is a great find. And if you spot this angled blush brush in Rite Aid, I definitely recommend you guys picking it up-how can you not with the great quality, and affordable price? I love this brush so much, that I am going back and picking up a few more of the other Rite Aid Renewal cosmetic brushes. I hope they are just as good as this brush is.

What do you all think about this angled blush brush? Have any of you tried it?

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned above. I purchased this product for my personal use. 

Beauty Crave

Hey dolls,

I am so sorry for the lack of posts lately. I started the new school semester this week and I am sure you all can imagine how crazy it has been, preparing for classes and such. Since I have some free time this weekend, I will try to post some more. With my busy schedule now, I will probably have time to do 1-2 posts per week. But don't fret my lovelies. Wherever life takes me, I am not giving up on this site. Providing you all with helpful reviews and beauty tips, is what makes me happy. And that is not going to change.

Ok, now lets take a look at some items that have been recently added, to my never-ending beauty wishlist.

1. Clinique Age Defense BB Cream ($37.00)- I have yet to enter the BB cream phase. This product contains antioxidants, and an SPF of 30 for that much needed sun protection. I am curious to know weather this BB cream would be enough for me, when it comes to coverage. Also, there seems to be only two shades available. I would have liked to see a more broader shade range, but I am still curious to try this product. Have any of you tried BB creams? What do you all think of them?

2. Bite Luminous Creme Lipstick Set ($25.00)- This set of mini, paraben-free lipsticks is just lovely! The colors are right up my alley, and what's really cool is that these lipsticks contain Resveratrol, an antioxidant that helps battle free radical damage. I like!

3. Tarte Amazonian Clay 12 Hour Blush ($25.00)- These blushes are all the rave, in the beauty community. They seem very pigmented, there is a nice selection of colors, and I love that these blushes are paraben free. I am a fan of Tarte products, and I am sure this blush will not disappoint. I wonder if this blush really does last 12 hours as it claims to do? 

4. Too Faced Matte Eyeshadow Collection ($36.00)- Since the Too Faced Natural Eyeshadow palette impressed me so much, I have been intrigued with finding out more about Too Faced. There are bronzers and foundations I want to try-but, that's for another beauty crave post. These matte eyeshadows are really great for all who favor matte eyeshadows over shimmered ones. I love all eyeshadow finishes, but these matte ones sure would come in handy on days when I want a more natural-looking, toned down eyeshadow look.

5. Dior 'Diorskin Nude' Natural Glow Hydrating Makeup ($46.00)- This foundation has been on my radar for such a long time. Ever since I purchased my first ever Dior product- The Diorskin Nude Healthy Glow Powder in Aurora, I have been intrigued with anything Dior ever since. I am almost positive that most of their products are great quality, and despite the high price tag, you most definitely will get what you pay for. 

What products are on your Beauty Wishlist?

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned above.