Wet n' Wild Megalast Nail Color: I Need a Refresh-Mint

When warm weather arrives, nail colors that are bright and pastel-like, are always pulling me in. It was a very natural decision when I decided to add Wet n' Wild's Megalast Nail Color in I Need a Refresh-Mint ($1.99), to my summer nail polish lineup. If you are a fan of greens, brights, and pastels, this is a nail color you need to have!

Wet n' Wild Megalast Nail Color: I Need a Refresh-Mint. Two coats applied, no topcoat

I Need a Refresh-Mint is a lovely bright, aqua cream, that leans more on the greener side than it does blue. In the nail swatch picture above, it looks more blue. But in person, the green tinge is hard to miss. The first coat went on a bit streaky but once I applied coat number two, everything evened out and provided a smooth, opaque coverage. Drying time was super quick, as I imagined it would be. Gotta love fast drying nail colors. Especially ones that dry to a shiny finish, like this one does :)

I really love the Megalast nail brush. The width of the nail brush makes it really easy for me to cover my nail beds much quicker, than an average nail brush does. Although, I can see how the width of the nail brush may be an issue for those who have smaller nail beds. Just something to think about.

I typically have a good experience with the Megalast nail colors, when it comes to lasting power. I get about 5 days wear, before I start to notice any chips or tip wear-and that's without applying a topcoat. I know that mint nail colors are nothing new and, you all probably have a few in your nail collections already. But if you don't, I can't recommend this one enough. It's an awesome affordable affordable option and, its one of those staple colors that will be around for a long time. 

 *In case any of you are interested, check out my review and nail swatches of 2% Milk and Club Havana, which are also part of the Megalast Nail Color line, HERE!

What do you all think of Wet n' Wild's Megalast Nail Color in I Need a Refresh-Mint? Which are your favorite Megalast Nail Colors?

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

MAC Tres Cheek: Modern Mandarin Blush

Hey dolls, I hope you are all having a great day! A few weeks ago, MAC came out with a new limited edition collection called Tres Cheek. The collection consist of six new powdered blushes, that have been getting a lot of love from the beauty blogging community. I finally stopped by my nearby MAC store this past weekend and checked out the collection in person. While swatching the blush colors, I was instantly impressed by Modern Mandarin ($20.00).

Modern Mandarin (satin) is a vivid, yellow-peach coral, that contains small, fine shimmers. The main reason that I was so drawn to Modern Mandarin was because of its gorgeous color and pigmentation. I am pretty sure that I don't have a blush that is quite like this one. Its a refreshing addition to my makeup arsenal. Summer is nearby and, I think Modern Mandarin is the perfect color to sport during those warmer months. This is no surprise to me, seeing as I am constantly wearing peach/coral blushes during that time.

When applying Modern Mandarin, a light hand is preferred. I accidentally picked up too much product on my blush brush and I ended up with clown cheeks! So, remember that a little bit goes a long way. The texture of this blush is a dream. Its enjoyably smooth and blends with ease. As for the shimmers, they are so fine that, they don't really show up on my cheeks, at all. 

The longest I have worn this blush was for 7 hours and by the end of the day, there was very minimal fading. Keep in mind, I have oily skin so, those with normal or drier skin, may fare better when it comes to lasting power. 

Overall, I am really pleased with Modern Mandarin and I definitely advise those who are thinking about picking this up, to do so as soon as possible, before this sells out. Luckily my local MAC counter had a few left in stock and right now, I am seeing on the MAC website that Modern Mandarin-as well as the other blushes in the collection, are all still available online. Get this beauty while you still can, lovelies. It's worth it, I assure you!

What do you all think of Modern Mandarin? Did any of you pick up any other blushes from the Tres Cheek collection?

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

bareMinerals READY Eyeshadow 2.0: The Epiphany

I don't know if I have ever mentioned this but, I used to be a huge Bare Escentuals fan. There actually was a time in my life where I would only buy and use Bare Escentuals cosmetics. Eventually, I got really tired of the mess the loose minerals made so, I fell off the Bare Escentuals train wagon, for a bit. The only exception I have made was for the bareMinerals foundation. I always repurchase it when I run out. Love that stuff! It's a staple foundation for the warm, summer months. 

I am so happy that Bare Escentuals has finally put out beauty products that are in pressed form. Not only are the pressed products limited to eyeshadows, their READY line has expanded to blushes, bronzers, and more! When Sephora was having a 15% off sale a few weeks ago, I thought that it was a great opportunity to give the bareMinerals READY Eyeshadow 2.0 in The Epiphany ($20.00), a try. 

Left To Right: A-HA, Foreshadow

A-HA: Satin shimmered, light golden champagne taupe

Foreshadow: Cool, matte brown

Quick Product Facts:

*The eyeshadows contain a "SeaNutritive Mineral Complex"

*The sea minerals are infused with caffeine, antioxidants, and cucumber

*Eyeshadows have anti-aging benefits (clinically proven)

*Helps depuff, revitalize, and smooth the aye area

*Provides long wearing, pigmented color
*Eyeshadows won't dry out the eye area

*Contains no parabens, binders, synthetic chemical ingredients, or fillers

First, I absolutely love the compact packaging. The texture of the compact reminds me that of the NARS blush casing. They both have that satin, rubberized texture. Very sleek and feels really sturdy, as well. Also included in the compact, you will find a nicely-sized mirror and a handy, sponge tip applicator. This sponge tip feels really different than others that I have tried before. The sponge tip on this one is definitely not flimsy, like others often are.

As for the eyeshadows, I couldn't be anymore happier with them. Both shadows are just lovely. They are highly pigmented-a little bit goes a long way, they have a smooth and creamy texture that easily glides on the lids, and blendability is a dream. I did find that these eyeshadows were a bit powdery, though. But honestly, its not even a major deal-breaker for me. The texture, and pigmentation definitely make up for it.

I love how wearable these two shades are. I love to sport A-HA all over my lids, and then add a bit of Foreshadow on my outer V area, and blend into the crease. I get an effortless, neutral eye that literally takes less than 5 minutes to achieve. When it comes to lasting power, these aren't too shabby when worn over primer. As you all probably know, I have super oily lids so, an eye primer for me is a must, whenever I am sporting eyeshadow.

Overall: I think Bare Escentuals have a superb product in their hands and, I am just enamored with these pressed eyeshadows. I really like the awesome and beneficial ingredients that these eyeshadows contain and I am really looking forward to picking up other pressed products, from their READY line. I think I have just fallen in love with Bare Escentuals all over again.

What do you all think of the bareMinerals READY eyeshadow 2.0 in The Epiphany? Have any of you tried other shades?

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

Wet n' Wild Color Icon Eyeshadow Collection: Comfort Zone

When it comes to eyeshadows, Wet n' Wild is one of the few drugstore brands that does it right. Not only are their eyeshadow palettes affordable but, they also have an insane amount of pigmentation, as well. If you are longtime readers of my blog, then you all must know by now how much I love the Wet n' Wild color icon eyeshadow trios. Well, Wet n' Wild super-sized their eyeshadow palette category by coming out with 8-pan eyeshadow palettes! I know that these 8-pan palettes have been out for awhile but, I still want to share my thoughts on it, with you all. So, today, I am going to be talking about Wet n' Wild's Color Icon Eyeshadow Collection in Comfort Zone ($4.99), which is one of three 8-pan eyeshadow varieties that are available. 

Left side, Four down, L-R: Browbone, Eyelid, Crease, Definer

Right side, Four Down, L-R: Browbone, Eyelid, Crease, Definer

Color Breakdown:

Left Side (top to bottom)

*Browbone-Shimmered, cream with a satin finish

*Eyelid-Shimmered, golden peach with a satin finish

*Crease-Shimmered, cool light golden brown with a satin finish 

*Definer-Reddened, dark brown with bronze/gold shimmers

Right Side (top to bottom)

*Browbone-Shimmered, golden green/grey with a satin finish

*Eyelid-Shimmered, light golden green with a satin finish

*Crease-Dark moss green with light gold shimmers

*Definer-Reddened brown taupe, with a teal duo-chrome effect, and satin finish

Before I begin my review, can we just chit chat about the bottom right, definer color for a bit? Seriously, a duo-chrome eyeshadow? I have never seen one like it before and, its a beauty! It goes on brown, but when the shadow shines in certain angles, its inevitable to spot that unique teal colored duo-chrome effect. I think this eyeshadow palette is worth it, just for this shadow, alone. Its amazing!

I am a huge fan of neutral eyeshadows and, I simply love how all 8 colors coordinate so well together. You can certainly mix and match shades, and you will always obtain fabulous results. The texture of these shadows are just lovely. They feel buttery smooth and I experience minimal fallout when I apply these to my lids. Blendability was a delight and each shadow packet a whole lot of punch of color.

As per usual with eyeshadow palettes, this one contains a double ended eyeshadow applicator-a sponge tip on one side, and an angled fluffy brush on the other. Great for on the go, touch-ups. Also, on the back of the palette, you will find eye-look suggestions that range from a natural barely there eye, to a more dramatic effect.

Overall, I couldn't be anymore happier with this eyeshadow palette. You are getting 8 eyeshadows for a very affordable price, the colors are all beautifully pigmented, and you can't help but become enamored with the fun, duo-chrome shadow in the palette. This eyeshadow palette is a winner in my eyes, and a must-have for all neutral eyeshadow lovers. Although I love shimmered eyeshadows, I hope Wet n'Wild releases an 8 pan eyeshadow palette that contains all matte neutral eye colors, in the future. Now, that would really be a treat. 

What do you all think of Wet n' Wild's Color Icon Eyeshadow Collection in Comfort Zone? 

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

Victoria's Secret: Beach Sexy Tinted Self-Tan Lotion

The weather is starting to warm up here, and now more than ever, I am longing for that sun-kissed, glow. I love self-tanners in the summertime. My skin is the type that is very hard to tan so, any little bit helps! When I saw the Victoria's Secret Beach Sexy Tinted Self-Tan Lotion ($12.00) over at the store, I was immediately intrigued. I don't know, I just had a good feeling about it. Does that ever happen to you? When you don't really know much about a product but, when you see it you just know that its going to work? Yea, that's what happened to me. And, I am happy to report that my instincts didn't deceive me because, I am VERY much pleased.

Ingredients

First,  I want to talk about the scent. Scents are a really big deal for me when it comes to self-tanners because, there is nothing more off-putting than a self-tanner that contains a not so pleasant, unbearable fragrance. Yea, I have been there. Luckily, the scent this self tanning lotion contains is really lovely. It's probably one of the yummiest self-tanner smells I have ever encountered. I would describe the scent as a tropical fruity, coconut. Sort of reminds me of the beach. Delish! The scent definitely stays in tact for quite awhile on the skin, before it lessens and fades a bit. 

This self-tan lotion is light golden brown in color, and it contains small, golden shimmers throughout. I think the shimmers are a nice touch but personally, I would have liked it if this lotion didn't contain any. But thankfully, the shimmers don't create a mess and rinse away once I shower. Now, getting on to the application process, no trouble in that department! The lotion is tinted so you can see exactly where it is that you are applying it on the skin. Blend-ability was superb, thanks to the lotion's smooth and light texture. There was not a streak in sight. Its basically fool-proof. I really appreciate that this lotion dries relatively quick on my skin. I remember that I once applied too much, and it took forever to dry so, a little bit of product definitely goes a long way. 

Tips:

* Before I self-tan, I make sure that my skin is well exfoliated and moisturized. Because if it isn't, this self-tanner will cling to those dryer areas. And that, we don't want. 

*Whenever I am applying self-tanner, I use vinyl/latex gloves so that I won't run the risk of tanning my palms.

*I always self-tan at night, 2-3 hours before I go to bed. I like to let the tanner stay on my body for as long as possible, to let it really work its magic.

By morning, I have woken up to even looking, natural color, that isn't orange. Most self-tanners that I have used tend to rinse away in the shower but, I didn't really experience that with this one. I like that this self-tanner really stays intact onto my skin, which brings me to lasting power. Again, no trouble here either. This self-tanner easily lasts on my skin up to a week. And when it finally does fade, it does so evenly without leaving any weird, and unflattering patches.

Overall, I am really enjoying this self-tanner and, I have a feeling that this is the one that I am going to be relying on this summer. Thanks to this product, I am going to be sporting a beautiful, natural looking, sun-kissed glow all summer long :)

What do you all think of the Victoria's Secret Beach Sexy Tinted Self-Tan Lotion? Have any of you tried it? Which are your favorite self-tanners?

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

Product Review: Sigma Flat Top Synthetic F80 Kabuki Brush

The Sigma Flat Top Synthetic Kabuki F80 Brush ($16.00) is one that has been on my wishlist for a long time. How could it not have been? This face brush is constantly praised in the beauty community. It is often said that this brush does wonders when it comes to applying foundations, weather it be powders or liquids. I am always on the lookout for the next best thing when it comes to applying my liquid and mineral powdered foundations so, eventually, I gave in and purchased the F80 brush. And, yea. This brush is all that, and more! The praise and attention it receives is very much well deserved.

Check it out! 

The sigma F80 brush is a real treat. The brush hairs are tightly packed into the ferrule, which is a sign to me that this brush is pretty sturdy and well constructed. Not only am I fond of the sleek appearance of the brush, but also the length of the handle. The handle is perfect for allowing me to obtain control of the brush, which then helps me blend in the foundation much more efficiently. 

The synthetic fiber hairs feel really soft against my skin and, I am happy to report that I have not experienced any shedding of the hairs, at all. Score! I would say that the brush hairs are semi-taught, meaning that the brush hairs won't flop all around the face. If you are looking for concentrated coverage, you will definitely achieve it with this brush. I have used this flat top brush with both liquid and mineral powdered foundations and, it works amazingly well with both. Every time I use this brush, my foundation blends seamlessly into my skin and when it comes to liquid foundations, the brush doesn't soak up all the product like some other brushes tend to do.

As for cleansing the brush, I have read that some find cleaning the brush hairs a little challenging but honestly, I have not experienced the same. I cleanse the brush hairs with baby shampoo and it gets the job done, just fine. I lay this brush flat to dry overnight and by morning, the hairs are dry, and it has still maintained its shape and softness.

I am so happy that I have added this brush to my makeup brush arsenal. I think if you haven't tried Sigma brushes before and are thinking of finally trying out a brush from them, I can't recommend enough to start out with this one. I am definitely going to be trying out other Sigma makeup brushes in the future, if they perform as good as this brush did. 

Have any of you tried the Sigma Flat Top Synthetic F80 Kabuki Brush? What do you all think of it? Which other Sigma brushes are your must-haves?

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

Hard Candy Blush Crush Baked Blushes: Bombshell, Living Doll

Hey dolls! Today, I am going to be sharing with you all my thoughts on two of Hard Candy's Blush Crush Baked Blushes. I have Bombshell and Living Doll ($7.00, each). When I saw these at Wal-Mart, I just couldn't resist picking them up. They looked promising and, one can never have too many blushes, right? :)

Left To Right: Bombshell, Living Doll

Bombshell

Bombshell

Living Doll

Living Doll

Swatched Top to Bottom: Bombshell, Living Doll

Bombshell: This one was my most favorite of the two blushes. Bombshell is a gorgeous semi-cool, shimmered golden brown with bits of coral/pink veining. I remember when I came back from Puerto Rico, my face had a little tan going on and, this blush just enhanced it beautifully. This color gives my cheeks such a pretty, natural looking sun-kissed glow that never looks fake or, overdone. I can already tell that Bombshell is going to be one of my daily, summer staples.

Living Doll: Living Doll is a cool, shimmered luminous pink that contains bits of cream colored veining. When I apply this blush on my cheeks, I have to say that the color hardly shows up on my NC25 skin tone. I get a barely-there, light pink flush. I think this blush would work wonderfully for those who are very fair, though. Seeing as the color may just show up more vibrantly, than it did on me. But, Living Doll is still a gorgeous color, nonetheless and, I am glad that it is part of my collection.

When it comes to the shimmers, I don't find them overbearing on my cheeks, at all. They don't enlarge my pores, either. The shimmers don't work against my skin, they actually help mimic that glowing radiance that I just love and can't get enough of. Both blushes have a smooth and silky texture that make application a dream, by blending into my skin effortlessly. As indicated on the back of the compact packaging, these blushes can also be used wet, in order to achieve a more dramatic result. I haven't tried wetting these blushes yet but, maybe if I use Living Doll wet, the color might show up a little more? Although, I don't think I would really feel comfortable using a wet blush on my cheeks. We shall see! When it comes to lasting power, I find that the blushes stay intact for most of the day, with very minimal fading after the 7 hour mark.

Overall, I am really happy that I picked up these two blush crush baked blushes from Hard Candy. They are cruelty free, affordable, the colors are really wearable, and it doesn't hurt that you are getting a lot of product, which I am sure will last a long time. If you are looking for a blush that is inexpensive and will give your cheeks a natural looking glow, then I recommend checking out these Hard Candy blush crush baked blushes. You may just love them.

Have any of you tried the Hard Candy Blush Crush Baked Blushes? Which are your favorite shades?

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

Love & Beauty: Coconut Ultra Hydrating Shea Butter Mask

I like to use face masks when my skin starts to show signs of dullness, and is parched for moisture and brightness. My face was long overdue for a facial mask treatment so, when I spotted the Love & Beauty Coconut Ultra Hydrating Shea Butter Mask ($1.80) over at Forever 21, I just had to give it a go. What really drew me in was the word coconut. I just love anything coconut scented. Yum!

Ingredients

Quick Product Facts:

*Works to moisturize and soften dry skin

*Helps brighten and rejuvenate the skin

*Contains coconut, pearl extract, Shea butter, vitamin E, lavender, and bergamot

*Product is cruelty free

I have always seen these facial mask packets at Forever 21 and, I never gave them a second glance. Well, that stops now my friends because, I am in love! I really believe that this mask did what it claimed to do which was to brighten and hydrate my skin. Plus, so much more!

When I first applied the mask, it spread evenly all over my face and neck, thanks to its smooth and semi-thick texture. As soon as the mask was on, I felt a nice cooling sensation on my face and, I detected the yummy coconut scent that also included a hint of lavender as well. I left the mask on my face for about 20 minutes then I rinsed it off with warm water.

When I finished rinsing, I was amazed at the face looking back at me in the mirror. My face didn't feel tight or irritated, my pores and blackheads not only appeared smaller, they were less noticeable as well. Last, my complexion did in fact look more luminous and had this unbelievable glow to it. It was really astonishing! I have never used a mask that produced such dramatic results. I think I may have found my HG face mask.

I like that these mask packets are so inexpensive and easy to find but, I really hope that one day this mask will be available in a squeeze tube form. That would be awesome. But until then, I will definitely stock up on this facial mask when I make another trip to Forever 21. I am sold!

Have any of you tried this face mask? Which are your favorite facial masks?

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

Birchbox: April 2012

Hello, dolls! I hope you are all having a lovely day :) I received my April Birchbox in the mail yesterday and, I am here today to share the goodies that I received in this month's box. This month's box contained some awesome skincare products that are jam packed with natural ingredients, a lovely nail color, a perfume sample, and a surprise product that I would have never expected. That's why I love Birchbox. You are bound to get a surprise in every box!

J.R. Watkins Hand and Cuticle Salve: This 99.50% natural salve could not have arrived at a better time! My cuticles have been looking pretty rough lately and, I was impressed at how this balm quickly softened them up. I really love the smooth, thin texture of the salve, as well as its soothing, citrus lavender scent. This salve is going to travel with me wherever I go. Instant love!

Willa Gentle Cleansing Lavender Facial Towelettes: I was really excited to see this adorable, travel size pack of facial wipes, in my box. These towelettes are infused with aloe, green tea, and lavender. They are also oil free, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic. Can't wait to give these a try.

Zoya Nail Color in Bevin: Like last month's box, this month's box contained a nail polish as well. This time I received a mini-sized Zoya nail color in Bevin, which is part of Zoya's TRUE collection for spring. Bevin is a lovely medium green, that contains a hint of grey. I love Zoya nail colors and, I am glad I received one but, since I also received a green nail polish in last month's box (Color Club's Age of Aquarius), I wish that I would have gotten another color, instead. But, this color is gorgeous nonetheless and perfect to sport during these spring months.

Taylor Swift Wonderstruck: I have been meaning to try out this scent for quite sometime and, I am glad my box contained a sample, to try out. The scent is a bit musky with a hint of sweetness to it. I like!

Dropps Laundry Detergent: I am sure you all can imagine my surprise when I spotted laundry detergent pacs in my box. Totally wasn't expecting that! Its really cool that because of the detergent's high concentration, more water, plastic, and energy is being saved, making these a wonderful eco friendly product. Super awesome! Just toss one or both pacs into your washer, and while washing, the pacs will dissolve to release the detergent, easy. I certainly can't wait to give these a go.

What did you all receive in your April Birchbox? Did any of you get the same items I did?

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned above. I purchased a monthly subscription to Birchbox with my personal funds, for my personal use.