The September Wishlist

 

Septwishlist

Makeup & Skincare

Unfortunately, I asked for the wrong shade of the Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Enhancer ($58) back in June. In my defence, my moderately fair skin seemed to suit the description for SX04, “fair with golden undertones” to a T but when it arrived, it seemed a bit too deep and orange-leaning – and I know I should have exchanged it then but I could not be bothered to send it back. Now that I love the creamy uber-pigmented formula, I’m wanting to go for SX03, after seeing its fairer swatches.

On the decidedly more budget-friendly side of the spectrum, I’ve got my eye on the L’Oreal Colour Riche La Lacque Lip Pen in 201 Lacque-y Charm ($11-12). I’ve only spotted them once with completely depleted stock once in Walmart, so I’m waiting to spot them in greater supply. Being a lover of crayon-style lip products and these glossy balmy formulas, I’m all over this neutral warm rosy hue.

Luckily I’ve had the opportunity to learn about and sample a few products from Di Morelli, including their simply named but fantastic Di Morelli Moisturizer ($58) that actually might come close to my Caudalie and might be more economical, coming with 100 mLs. I’ve been using this for a month and have found myself loving the lightweight soothing formula that has loads of the soothing and repairing vitamin, panthenol along with the usual emollients.

Nails

After taking a break from painting my nails for the good majority of the summer, my interest in nail polish has definitely been rekindled and these two Essie pale blues have caught my eyes. First off, I was convinced that I needed the Essie Nail Lacquer in Salt Water Happy ($8-9) because it supposedly had an opaque formula that was distinctly different than some of their more streaky pastel formulas and had that icy hue. However, even though I’m not nearly as sure about the formula, I’ve got my eye on the slightly more lilac-hued Essie Nail Lacquer in Virgin Snow ($8-9) from their Winter collection…

Clothes etc.

Although I actually have picked up two new pairs of jeans that I adore already, I still am in need of some pieces to refresh my fall wardrobe and these two items have sparked my interest… The first is the American Eagle Strappy Babydoll Cami ($36.75) and is a kind of different version of the less basic flowy tank that I rely on. I’m also in need of a new sweater or two with a more lightweight texture and I love the slouchy effect that the American Eagle Feather Light Blanket Cardigan ($73.56) offers.

And last but not least, I’ve got my eyes on Phillipa Gregory’s new book, The Taming of the Queen ($32) which as you might know, is yet another novel in the historian’s Plantagenet series that I’m all kinds of obsessed with.

Any wishlisty thoughts?
Maggie, x.

“Recent” Acquisitions & Thoughts

To state the obvious, I will admit that I have taken the longest break that I ever have from blogging and I apologize for that, but in my defence it was unintentional – things were crazy around work and I was falling a bit behind on my posts and then poof, my laptop finally hit the dust and I was without a computer for two weeks. My apologies for this and let’s get onto the post that I had started to write before this all went down.

I had some general musings to share before getting into the nitty gritty of things: I had been doing quite possibly far too much shopping in recent weeks and therefore, I had felt the need to share my thoughts on these items without overwhelming myself. To be completely honest, I find doing full-on reviews of products overwhelming but I hate the idea of simply going on about items that I’ve purchased without aim or purpose. As I’ve noticed that I can’t seem to get around to writing a dedicated review of a product until I’ve used it to death, – figuratively – I’ve been thinking that these more review-y acquisition posts might be in order for sharing my verdict on these more recent purchases.

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Sephora Collection Master Cleanse Brush Cleanser ($19): Makeup brush cleaning might be the most mundane, seemingly unnecessary and unappealing task so along with generally skimping on the chore, I’ve downright refused to spend any money on any sort of brush cleansing product. I used the (somewhat) recent 3x points even as justification to foray into brush cleansers, wanting to add one to my rotation for daily spot cleaning. This alcohol free but fast drying spray feels conditioning on brushes and works well to instantly remove makeup, particularly on eye brushes without fuss or time spent waiting for it to dry. It’s also nice because it won’t break down brushes but still has that instant effect.

Sephora Collection Pro Smudge Brush #11 ($23): I want to begin this with a funny story but I’m not sure that this is actually interesting in the slightest – I bought this brush along with the cleanser, inspired to invest in and take care of my brushes but I accidentally grabbed the wrong brush. Regardless, I used this short wide shading brush without noticing and fell in love with it anyway. I adore it for applying colour underneath my lashes and for building depth along the lash line and outer corner. I do note that the quality is impressive.

Urban Decay Naked Smoky Palette ($64): I’ve heard quite a few less than stellar responses to Urban Decay’s latest palette instalment but I have to say that I really disagree. I do not find that the shadows blend into one another and I actually quite enjoy the shade selection, not finding it repetitive from their previous palettes in a problematic way or unflatteringly cool-toned. Because this palette offers a variety of smoky shades in different depths along with a nice variety of matte neutrals, a few of those light shimmery lid shades that I adore, and a mix of neutral, warm and cool shades, I find it to be perhaps the most versatile palette out of the collection. I do agree that many of the shades are close to others released in previous palettes but as an all-in-one palette, I don’t mind in the slightest because of the convenience.

Youngblood Natural Mineral Foundation in Barely Beige ($47.99): Being someone who suffers with dryness and foundation settling over patchy areas of skin and can suffer with sensitivity to certain powder formulas, I’m not usually one for these mineral powder formulas but since being exposed to this luxurious mineral makeup line at work and playing with the product, I couldn’t resist picking this loose powder up. It does feel weightless on the skin and provide coverage whilst almost looking undetectable and gives both build able coverage and a glow. I enjoy using it on its own for lighter coverage days and to set liquid foundations for other occasions.

Rimmel Lasting Finish 25h Comfort Serum Foundation in 103 True Ivory ($9-10): By no means did I need yet another foundation but I couldn’t resist picking up this affordable comfortable yet long wearing foundation, particularly because it’s been hot this summer and my skin has gotten a little bit more combination in the t-zone and I’ve been curious to find something a little more matte but that’s still flattering. This foundation has impressed me, providing a semi-matte finish and medium build able coverage that lasts without clinging to any uneven texture.

Colab Volume Extend Dry Shampoo in London ($9-10): I can be quite a harsh critic so I’m rather surprised that even my final product of discussion has greatly impressed me – in other words, the hype is authentic about Ruth Crilly’s dry shampoo formula. This one does leave a bit of residue that needs to be mussed with to eliminate but its worthwhile because it gives a dramatic amount of volume that actually lasts and doesn’t leave too much of a powdery feeling in the hair along with the grit it adds. I’m partial to the scent as well, with its slightly musky sophisticated notes that I can’t quite describe.

Any thoughts?
Maggie, x.

On My Radar #1

I’m beyond exhausted – and beyond sleep deprived as well – so I can’t be too sure of what might follow but I’ve compiled my thoughts on five newer launches that I’ve been curious about trying. Here I go…

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  • Urban Decay Naked Smoky Palette ($64): This is an outward lie – the latest Naked release from Urban Decay has been out for perhaps near a month and I actually own it, so it’s not on my radar. However, it was on my radar until last week when I picked it up at Sephora’s bonus points and gift bag promotion and I’m definitely impressed.
  • Paula’s Choice Clear Acne Body Spray ($24 US): Unfortunately the most of my acne struggles have been on my body and even more unfortunately, they haven’t seemed to dissipate with time but gentle salicylic acid products have really seemed to help me and this spray formula is particularly interesting, given its ability to spray at any angle. Also, you get a good amount of product and it has a formula loaded with other beneficial ingredients, such as anti-irritants that could also be used on the face without missing out. I am in the market for a BHA for the face…
  • Becca x Jaclyn Hill Champagne Pop Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed ($46): While I wouldn’t say I’m anywhere as obsessed as most of us in the blogosphere, I do want to get my hands on this limited-edition “white gold with pinky peach undertones” shade because I’ve been speedily falling in love with Becca’s highlighter formulas and have been tempted to try a powder variation. I’ve been torn between trying Opal and Moonstone because I truly would prefer a combination of the two shades and from what I’ve deduced, Champagne Pop is that mix – with champagne-peach undertones but still suitable on fairer skins.
  • Sephora Collection Oil Infusion Color & Care in 03 Peach Tea ($18): Having such dry, chapped and sensitive lips and favouring low-maintenance formulas, the concept behind the YSL Volupte Tint-in-Oils has really appealed to me, where the lips are nourished with a balmy formula while a tint is left behind even after the balm dissipates, but I was not ready to shell out 35 dollars – and these seem like such an intriguing alternative. The peach-coral hybrid shade is also pleasantly up my alley and firmly in my comfort zone.
  • Bath & Body Works Flannel 3-Wick Candle ($22.50): Flannel, the androgynous warm and musky candle with that enticing pear kind of note, was my favourite candle discovery last Fall so surely it’s not a product that has just been released for the first time. However, it has re-emerged again after disappearing before the winter last year and I’m counting the days until I can justify picking another one up so it is most definitely on my radar. If you’re into “mandles”, this one is a must.
Any thoughts?
Maggie, x.

July Empties: Actual Skincare & Makeup

I’ve got the day off and even though I’m feeling sort of like I’ve been run over my a miniature dumptruck I figure that it’s time for the second part of my empty products post from July. I’m only slightly bitter that I did not in fact manage to finally finish up a particular foundation of mine… I promise.

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Sephora Collection Lotus Face Mask ($8/0.84 ounces)

I’m a bit funny about spending money on single use skincare so on my own I probably would not have bit the bullet and tried out one of Sephora’s newer sheet masks on my own but I will say that I was impressed with this moisturizing and soothing mask – it actually did what was on the label without any real amount of marketing nonsense or misleading ingredients. I felt hilarious with the mask on and was surprised to find that I still found it kind of large on my large face but I found that it came with a generous amount of product in the packet so although the mask was only one use, I got another two out of the excess product left on the sheet itself. It was really great for plumping up my skin, conquering dehydration and calming it overnight – in a visible way. I wouldn’t repurchase on a regular basis, but I would consider picking some up again on one of the buy-four-get-one free deals that Sephora has on.

Paula’s Choice Resist Moisture Renewal Oil Booster Trial Size ($15/0.12 ounces)

I really did enjoy this irritant and fragrance free oil when I had it to instantly nourish and soothe my skin and I do appreciate how unique this product is, being formulated without fragrant essential oils that can wreck havoc on the skin. With that said, this does not impress me enough to warrant purchasing the full size, especially when you take the smaller-than-average size of the bottle into account.

Paula’s Choice Resist C15 Super Booster Trial Size ($20/0.12 ounces)

On the other hand, I found that this Paula’s Choice 15 % vitamin c antioxidant did last for a longer amount of time and was so good that it prompted a second order when I missed it tremendously as part of my routine upon using up my bottle. Obviously a repurchase has happened and I’m enjoying incorporating my larger bottle into my daily routine because it has helped to smooth the texture and the overall clarity of my skin. It’s the best.

Caudalie Vinosource Overnight Recovery Oil ($55/ 1 ounce) | review

This luxurious facial oil might not be the cheapest and does have the potential for some irritation with some synthetic fragrance and potentially problematic essential oils, but it has the most indulgent fluid texture and has helped to deeply hydrate and soothe my dehydrated sensitive skin. Because its pricier, I’ve switched to use a more affordable organic rosehip oil but I miss it terribly and am contemplating picking it up again.

Kiehl’s Skin Rescuer ($46/2.5 ounces)

This Kiehl’s moisturizer is definitely a great one and it’s great for dehydrated sensitive skin – plus you do get a great deal of product for the price – but it’s not my absolute favourite and does not compare with the Caudalie one that I’m going to discuss next. It’s free of fragrance and all things irritating and has the nicest lightweight soothing texture with glycerin, shea butter and a few anti-irritants, but it’s not like an instant skin drink and treatment. I wouldn’t be opposed to using it again in the future but I have no immediate plans to try it.

Caudalie Vinosource Riche Intense Moisture Rescue Cream ($40/ 1.3 ounces) | review

After using up the lighter Vinosource Moisturizing Sorbet and loving it last year, I was shocked to learn that I did the impossible, fell for the richer formula even harder. I might even say that it approaches holy grail territory with the instant lightweight hydration and soothing factor with its blend of emollients and antioxidants. It was almost a repurchase in the first place being the richer moisturizer in the same line but I’m definitely planning on coming back to it again after finishing my current one on the go.

MAC Studio Careblend Pressed Powder in Light ($31/0.35 ounces) | review

Being someone who finds it difficult to get along with most powders and use any quantity of them even when I do, but I’ve managed to use this soft matte natural-looking powdery until it shattered with just the inner rim remaining. It’s my favourite powder of all time, not offering much in coverage and just a small amount of oil-absorbing action but it doesn’t highlight dry patches, give a dry appearance to the skin or look powdery. I would definitely recommend this as a natural powder and will likely purchase again but I’m off to try others as I haven’t used many.

L’Oreal Magic Lumi Highlighting Concealer in 860 Fair ($14-16/0.05 ounces)

While I don’t love the high (and noticeable) alcohol content in the formula or just how pink and uber-pale this concealer-highlighter brush product is, it converted me to the realm of these highlighting pens that brighten the area whilst adding some coverage in moments. I quite liked it for brightening, either on its own for less serious bag days or paired with a corrector underneath the eyes, on the nose, chin and the center of the forehead. The sheerer illuminating texture was great, though,for highlighting with a concealing product without looking too heavy handed or makeup-y and now I want to try out different products of the highlighting pen variety. It would be great for anyone uber-pale though as it might actually serve as a highlighter for them…

Use up anything as of late?
Maggie, x.

 

 

 

Project Use Up

After my failure to use up my complexion products in last year’s Project 10 Pan within the allotted time period, I’ve been hesitant to officially begin another project or challenge. Nevertheless, I’ve been getting better at using products up to completion as of late and want to continue so I thought I would begin this – without any imposed restrictions this time.

DSC_0747Neutrogena Acne Stress Control 3-in-1 Hydrating Acne Treatment ($11/59 mL): This is a particularly excellent 2% BHA product, with a soothing lightweight gel-cream base but now that I know that Neutrogena has unfortunately discontinued the product, I’m ready to move on and try something else to help with inflammation and clogged pores. It’s particularly impressive as a chemical exfoliant because it’s so affordable while not containing drying alcohol like every BHA product ever, and it has a nice amount of the antioxidant, green tea. I’ve enjoyed using this gel BHA a few times per week and only have 1/3 of the tube left but I’m going to force myself to continue using it despite the wave of anxiety I feel when I even think of being without it. Irrational, I tell you.

Boots No 7 Beautiful Skin Hot Cloth Cleanser ($10-12/ 200 mL): In previous reviews of this lovely cream ‘hot cloth cleanser’, I’ve stated that I adore this affordable luxe-feeling and gentle cleanser and that definitely still stands but now that I’ve had it in the rotation for over a year and the packaging is peeling apart, I think it’s time to make a move on with finishing this up – especially before I even contemplate picking up another cleanser.

Nuxe Reve de Miel Lip Moisturizing Stick ($8/ 0.14 ounces): While this stick-format balm is not exactly holy grail material because it does not instantly bring about smooth hydrated lips, it is the best that I’ve yet to try overall – with its easy packaging and substantial emollient texture. This balm is a standout because it never irritates my sensitive lips with menthol or anything of that sort and actually seems to actively leave my lips hydrated after application. This is another example of the case where I avoid using up the last little bit of a product out of fear of the change of getting by without the product but I need to get over it. I bet I could justify trying out the traditional balm from this line after I use this up…

Rimmel Wake Me Up Foundation in 100 Ivory ($11-12/ 30 mL): Without a doubt, this affordable hydrating foundation is among my absolute favourite formulas because it always suits my perpetually dehydrated skin but I’m going to be extremely upset if this is not the first product to be finished. Over the last month in particular, and the last year more generally, I’ve driven myself insane by forcing myself to wear this foundation as frequently as possible – which has been daily as of late. I reviewed it in the earlier days of my blog here. The end better be near.

Rimmel Match Perfection Concealer & Highlighter in 010 Ivory ($7-8/7 mLs): Rimmel’s “highlighting” concealer is a nice concealer, however I don’t find it highlighting in the slightest. I have included it in faavourites posts before and I stand by that because I have difficulty with concealers to disguise my under eye darkness and this medium buildable coverage offering fit the bill. Now, I’m just kind of done with it because it’s not my absolute favourite as it has enough coverage that I don’t find the yellow tone and matte finish to be ideal. I have a good number of drugstore concealers that aren’t ideal for me and I just want to work through them, this being the first one as its lasted so long.

Any thoughts on using up products etc.?
Maggie, x.

July 2015 Favourites

My July has consisted of working, lounging around and trying to avoid doing any sort of strenuous activity in efforts to avoid becoming overly hot. My favourites this month have definitely followed a distinct theme – they are all products that stay put even while sweating in the heat and create the desired polished effect with the least amount of time and effort involved. Here’s the lowdown on the products:

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Studio Makeup Smooth Endurance Creme Eyeshadow in Souffle ($26): I succumbed to the allure of this smooth and pigmented cream eyeshadow towards the beginning of the month and there have been very few days since that I haven’t happily slapped on this metallic golden champagne cream shadow. I think that I might actually say that the texture is smoother and longer wearing than even MAC’s, even on my creasing-prone eyelids in the heat. Also, the truly metallic finish gives it the effect of MAC All That Glitters without the effort of a powder eyeshadow or even a primer beforehand.

L’Oreal Lineur Intense Brush Tip Liquid Eyeliner ($10): While I do love putting that extra effort in and taking time and extra steps on my makeup on occasion, I have to say that trying to look really pulled together on a daily basis can get a little bit annoying and that’s where this liquid eyeliner comes in. I haven’t always been going for loads of eye makeup in general but I have consistently been reaching for this eyeliner to create that precise wing that makes it instantly look like you tried much harder than you actually did. I will say that this liner requires solid effort, drying time and a steady hand…

MAC False Lashes Mascara ($12-27): I repurchased this more expensive mascara a couple of months back because I remembered loving the formula years back when it was first released, but it wasn’t until July that I fully realized why I loved it so much; It adds definite volume, definition and curl to the lashes along with a bit of length but it does not feel heavy on the lashes in the slightest, nor does the brush deposit too much product. This is a mascara that I love for no-fuss days in the summer heat and during allergy season – and kind of the rest of the time, I daresay.

Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector in Moonstone ($23-50): I could have very easily started off this favourites ramble talking about how Summer and glowy illuminated skin are a match made in heaven, but in all honesty I love glowy skin all day every day – maybe even every hour? I’ve been happily dabbing this pale golden highlighter on my cheekbones, temples, nose and chin after foundation for that intense-but-naturally-glowing effect that makes you feel like a goddess. The hype is well deserved.

Paula’s Choice Skin Recovery Enriched Calming Toner ($20 US): Earlier on during the month, I made and received my second Paula’s Choice order and this milky toner was a last minute addition and was the instant runaway hit of my purchases, instantly converting me to believing the toner hype. It has a milky texture that instantly soothed and nourished the skin but was light as air at the same time – this was particularly handy since I’ve been experiencing more combination skin than I usually do, with a normal t-zone and drier cheeks and chin. I’ve also been loving how concentrated it is with extremely beneficial ingredients; it’s loaded with anti-inflammatory plant oils, antioxidants and cell-communicating ingredients such as niacinamide and yet does not have a heavy feel or price tag.

Bath & Body Works Mahogany Teakwood Fine Fragrance Mist ($14): Particularly in the beginning stages of July before the heat really hit, I was happily spritzing myself with the cult classic scent that I picked up in body spray form at the Semi-Annual Sale. It’s not exactly summery but I do love the calming and somehow understated warm woodsy scent. I’ve been pleased that the body spray does not read to alcohol-heavy to my nose and that it doesn’t read too juvenile-and-Abercrombie-and-Fitch-esque. It also reads a whole lot more sophisticated than one would expect and it does last longer than one might expect.

What were you loving in July?
Maggie, x.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

July Empties: The Usual Suspects

Early July, I felt that I wasn’t using hardly anything up but suddenly they piled up but as per usual, I let them collect without writing a post. Anyways, I used up so many products to necessitate a second post – especially considering my rambling habits. Today I’m starting with the more usual bodycare, home fragrance items and items stored in the shower and stay tuned for the makeup and skincare items soon.

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Bath & Body Works Renew & Refresh 3-Wick Candle ($22.50) | review

I haven’t been burning candles much as of late, given that the weather here has been rather warm but over a month ago I burned this fresh floral and warm jasmine scented candle. As the review indicates, I loved burning this inoffensive mellow scent, especially when I was looking for a bit of calmness. The next time this returning scent comes around I will definitely consider picking the blue candle up again.

Bath & Body Works Bow Ties & Bourbon 3-Wick Candle ($22.50)

The fact that I actually repurchased this masculine-leaning candle before burning through my first three wick of it should be particularly telling in terms of the depth of my obsession with it. As I’ve said before, it has this subtly sweet vanilla scent along with the expected musky sandalwood and woodsy notes. I also quite enjoy that it works during a myriad of seasons and that it burns so flawlessly with a lingering but not overwhelming throw. If it comes back next year – and I hope it will – I will likely purchase a third one.

 

The Body Shop Moringa Body Milk ($13)

I did really enjoy using this lightweight milk body lotion because despite the inclusion of fragrance, it did not seem to irritate my skin and because of the rich hydration it left behind while having that thinner texture. The scent was strong but really nice as well, a unique fresh-leaning floral. I don’t have any plans on purchasing it again any time soon because it wasn’t quite that spectacular.

La Roche-Posay Lipikar Baume AP ($29.99)

Although I haven’t found anything resembling a miracle cure for my eczema, this lightweight but rich niacinamide-enriched cream has come the closest. It annoyingly tingles over irritated or raw skin but using it consistently really does help reduce the severity of my eczema and keep outbreaks to a minimum. The niacinamide definitely helps with barrier repair function that has a close correlation with eczema and it does sink in fast. It may just reduce itchiness over time and I will very likely purchase it again. I do wish it was a little richer in texture though.

 

L’Oreal Sublime Sun Sheer Finish SPF 50 Dry Mist ($17.99)

As I’m sure most of us do, I love the convenience of a spray sunscreen but most of the time I have issues with them irritating my skin with their alcohol content and running out of them far too quickly – in comparison to other sunscreen formulas. I’m pleased to report that I dealt with neither issue with this lightweight alcohol-free mist sunscreen. I particularly enjoyed how it felt soothing and hydrating on contact while having the convenience of the spray design. I’m going to be picking up another soon, as it is my favourite body sunscreen.

Aveeno Eczema Care Body Wash ($13)

As any one who suffers from a skin condition or general skin sensitivity should know, finding a gentle fragrance-free and soap-free body wash can make a world of difference for breaking the cycle of irritation – and this one is my favourite. It works nicely to cleanse even acne-prone areas of the body without irritation and gives a smooth shave to boot. I will definitely be replenishing my stock again soon!

Lush African Paradise Body Conditioner ($40)

This indulgent powdery musk scented body conditioner was a real treat for baths and showers and I did find that it was moisturizing and soothing whilst depositing the gorgeous scent, but in my opinion it’s just far too expensive for what you get. I loved the film that the oil rich formula left on my legs and just how smooth they felt afterwards, along with the ease of an in-shower formula but $40 dollars is too hefty of a price to pay.

 Use up anything lately of note?
Maggie, x.

The Review | Guerlain Terracotta Joli Teint Powder Duo

This statement should essentially speak for itself: I have no qualms about saying that  Guerlain Terracotta Joli Teint Powder Duo in 01 Clair – Brunettes ($60) is the best bronzer I’ve ever tried and I love it so much that I would easily use it every day without the smallest sign of regret and zero ounces of boredom. If you’re a regular reader of my blog, you would already be aware of how much I love this sheerer bronzer, based on the number of times I’ve raved about it in favourites posts and the like – but if not, here’s a clue.

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This ‘healthy glow bronzing powder’ is unfortunately limited edition, so if you’re interested I would suggest acting fast. What differentiates these powders from Guerlain’s other myriad of bronzing formulas is that they consist of two different shades and focus on imparting the skin with a sunkissed radiance rather than an obviously bronzed effect. Guerlain asserts that these powders leave the skin comfortable and with a soft satin finish that achieves the glowing effect without obvious shimmer or sheen. The crescent of blush in the compact is also designed to revitalize the complexion, in addition to the bronzing hue adding that subtle glow. The most shocking thing is that Guerlain actually achieves its claims here.

The powder itself blends seamlessly with the skin, adding an effortless golden glow with the traditional bronzing shade and a hint of brightness with the crescent of peachy-coral colour. The powders feel indulgent to the touch and are the smoothest and most finely-milled that I’ve come across, imparting the skin with this perfect ethereal glow that doesn’t seem to fade or become patchy even after 10-12 hours. As Guerlain claims, the two shades have a soft glowing satin finish without any semblance of shimmer particles. I will warn you that the powder swatches pathetically in comparison to how it applies – especially in terms of pigmentation. I do assure you that it is far less sheer than the swatches might suggest. The bronzing portion is a yellow-based warm-toned shade that doesn’t read orange in the slightest and the blush crescent is a soft coral with a peachy lean to it. Also, I find myself reaching for the blush crescent individually so this whole fusion of the two shades is not overly gimmicky in my experience.

the bronzing shade | the blush crescent | a blend of the two
the bronzing shade | the blush crescent | a blend of the two

It’s housed in gorgeous compact two-toned packaging but does house a great deal of product (0.35 ounces to be exact). It’s definitely a sleek looking compact that has a nice sturdy closure and a practical mirror. I kind of adore how this tan and brown compact is both practical and undeniably luxe. There are three possible complaints one could make about this bronzing duo, however; there’s a strong (but pleasant) musky fragrance to this powder that does not dissipate particularly quickly, it is an investment purchase and that the four shades cater to those with fairer skintones pretty exclusively.

before | after
before | after
 What’s your favourite bronzer?
Maggie, x.

 

 

Beauty & The Book #3

Just to state the obvious, it has been a lengthy amount of time since my last installment in my ‘Beauty & The Book’ series and while I am endeavouring to get back to it in the next few hundreds of words, this one is going to be a little bit different; there’s a connection between the beauty product and the piece of literature – as the book is a beauty-themed one – and they are created by the same company or individual.

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Paula Begoun’s “Don’t go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me” Vol. 9 ($22.95): In any other circumstance I would be incredibly skeptical of taking complete (or even incomplete) skincare advice and information from anyone who had their own brand – simply because I wouldn’t be able to move past the suspicion that they were just saying what ever they wanted to spout in order to sell their product. However the visible improvement in my skin during the last couple of years thanks to her advice, the fact that she created her line as a response to the lack of products that performed well in respect to their claims, the truth that she is willing to recommend products from lines other than her own and that she cites studies to support her claims has all but eliminated this skepticism. This book provides a trustworthy account of her philosophy, the ways in which the consumer is mislead by marketing and general myths and how skincare can realistically work, whilst providing compelling evidence of why and educating the consumer on how what kind of ingredients and products to incorporate into their routines. It’s incredibly comprehensive and goes over skin concern, type and just about anything. And this is just before she reviews individual products from from a plethora of lines for a good 800 pages, which is incredibly helpful for sorting out what products you should include in your routine and the like. She and her co-writers somehow manage to do this without entering bland writing territory that bores one to tears.

Paula’s Choice Skin Recovery Enriched Calming Toner ($20): For ages I’ve understood that there were such things as toners with non-irritating and even beneficial ingredients, but I never truly understood the allure of these hydrating milky liquids until this calming offering has entered my life. Unlike traditional toners in their ingredients, consistency and questionable efficacy, this is a lightweight hydrating serum served in liquid form with a plethora of beneficial ingredients and absolutely nothing known to be irritating. Just as a good serum or treatment should, this toner contains the usual hydrating ingredients along with a healthy dose of antioxidants, cell-communicating ingredients and ingredients that can combat irritation and inflammation. I could see the difference hours after my first application of this cloudy milky toner – my skin was notably less dehydrated, much more plump and radiant and calmed significantly. It has a healthy dose of the barrier-repairing hyaluronic acid, vitamins c and e, the cell-communicating niacinamide along with the expected nourishing plant oils. I’ve only been using this toner for maybe two weeks, but I’m definitely hooked.

Any Thoughts?
Maggie, x.

 

 

The Payday Acquisitions

There’s something life-affirming about waking up naturally and feeling sort of rested, on a nice summer day and not being woken by an alarm signifying that you are due at work in a rather short amount of time. Don’t get me wrong, I actually really like my new job and I’m not knocking that whole responsibility thing in general but I was enjoying the little vacation from its less appealing calls. Alas, I’m going to try to stop with that unrelated rambling thing and get to the point. In honour of receiving a couple of paychecks from my new job, I made a few celebratory purchases – yes, aside from the Paula’s Choice order – and I’ll begin with the three items that I picked up at a going-bankrupt sale from my only local Chanel Beauty counter. I’m more than heartbroken, by the way.

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Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Sheer Powder in N0 10 and N0 50 ($65): Since their release a fair while back, I’ve desperately wanted to try out Chanel’s luxurious glowing non-powdery powders and took this 30% discount as an opportunity to pick up 10 as a sheerer setting powder, to add instant glow, a little bit of coverage and some SPF protection with a light dusting. I was going to stop there but I saw 50 as well and it (rightly so) struck me as the ideal medium toned contour or cooler toned bronzing powder. The foundations that I wanted were out of stock so I somehow justified the purchase of the extravagant powder in two shades and haven’t looked back. In terms of first impressions, the powders are smooth and give that seamless glowing look to the skin that I’m all about.

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Bumble & Bumble Curl Conscious Defining Creme ($34.75): With my rebellious and petulant mass of dry and tangly fine wavy curls, I’m always on the lookout for a cream that will offer the hold and definition that I’m requiring while offering hydration and manageability to my hair. I might already have a few newer curl creams on the go but I couldn’t resist picking this one up with its discounted price, mainly because I adore Bumble & Bumble and was intrigued about its performance, being marketed towards finer curl types. My thoughts thus far are that it smells amazing in an understated way and offers some solid hold along with definition.

Prevens Paris Makeup Remover Wipes ($6-7): While I’m not exactly the greatest supporter of using makeup wipes, since trying some gentler options from Costco, Neutrogena and L’Oreal, I have succumbed to their allure for when I need to wash my face and remove makeup and I can’t be bothered to do anything else. Upon first glance, I was impressed with these ones because they are affordable yet don’t contain the harsh drying ingredients that many contain – namely irritating alcohols – and do contain nice hydrating ingredients like glycerin, oils and shea butter along with a couple of antioxidants. They do work nicely to cleanse the skin instantly without irritation or dryness but they unfortunately don’t leave my skin as soft as the L’Oreal Sublime Soft Soothing Cleansing Wipes do.

Studio Makeup Smooth Endurance Creme Eyeshadow in Souffle ($26): Well, the store where I work has recently acquired a few cosmetic brands and Studio Makeup has been one of them and I’ve found myself constantly showing this champagne cream eyeshadow to many customers and ah-ing over it. I figured that was a sign for me to try it out for myself and I’m not displeased in the slightest. The formula is creamy and comparable to Paint Pots and it’s essentially MAC All That Glitters in cream form.

Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector in Moonstone ($23): I’ve discussed my desire to sample Becca’s highlighters at great lengths in a variety of wishlist posts, so I had to snap up this more affordable smaller size of their standard famous liquid highlighter when I spotted it at my local Sephora (that doesn’t really carry Becca). I adore how well it meshes with my skin and agrees with my skin despite its finickiness, but most of all I adore the non-shimmery white gold luminous sheen that it leaves wherever its applied. Somehow it seems to add an intense sheen without any sort of visible shimmer; it’s sorcery, obviously.

Have you done any notable beauty shopping recently?
Maggie, x.