Friday, January 30, 2009
No longer limited-edition! Shop MAC Mineralize plus, free shipping.
Free shipping with any Mac purchase. Enter code MINERALIZE at checkout!
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Quick and Dirty Cut Crease
This is the look I'm wearing for work today. Its SUPER easy and it really doesn't take very long if you have the right brushes. I used to think "cutting the crease" was really hard but after watching a few videos and practicing myself (click links for 2 different versions) I think I got it. And it really only took about 10 minutes!
I've been wearing a simple version, like the one above, of a "cut crease" for the past 3 days, including today. I have found that the Mac 239, E.L.F. Blending Brush or Posh Eyeliner Duo (the side that looks like a mini 239) work best, at least for me. I will be doing a tutorial on this soon, but for now just a FOTD .
Eyes: (all Mac unless otherwise noted)
Highlight: Ricepaper
Crease: Random no name brown, you should be able to find in in the 88 or 120 palette
Lid: Vanilla
Liner: Coco Bar Liquid Last (any brown will do)
Black mascara
Brows: Brun
Lips:
Bobbi Brown Suede lip liner
Mac Icon lipstick
Mac Oh Baby Lip Glass
Face:
Arbonne BefoRE Sun Damage Control Water Resistant Sunscreen SPF 30
Light dusting of Paula Dorf No Color translucent powder
Mac blush in Prism
Mineralized Skin Finish Duo, light side only as a highlight
Stila Contour Trio - Dark for cheek contour
Let me know what you think :)
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Cherry Culture 20% OFF ON EVERYTHING IN STORE
(click on the image to go to the site)
* Offer valid thru January 28th to January 31st 11:59 PM CST.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
The Barbie Loves Stila collection - get all dolled up!
Apparently Barbie gets around, but didn't we know that already? I mean she was the only one for years with all of those Ken's hanging around. I'm still wondering which Ken is Kelly's babydaddy LOL.
I keep hearing that Barbie Loves Stila is a Sephora exclusive but just last week I received the email below from Stila themselves. So much for her being exclusive huh? I guess some things never change. If you can't find your fav at Sephora be sure to go to Stila's site and get one there!
I keep hearing that Barbie Loves Stila is a Sephora exclusive but just last week I received the email below from Stila themselves. So much for her being exclusive huh? I guess some things never change. If you can't find your fav at Sephora be sure to go to Stila's site and get one there!
Monday, January 26, 2009
Happy Year of the Ox!
In honor of Chinese New Year and Year of the Ox, which is my year :), I decided to do my first FOTD. Let me know what you think!
1. Line just your outer lip line with Urban Decay's Ozone
2. Go over Ozone with NYX 830 Currant lip liner, then lightly fill in the outer 2/3 of your lips with Currant, leaving the center part empty
3. Lightly go over the Currant with Burgundy lip liner from The Body Shop. Be sure to use this liner lightly since it can be very dark if you use a heavy hand. Fill in your ALMOST your entire lips with this color just leaving a bit of empty in the very center
4. Apply So Scarlet by Mac
5. Go over the So Scarlet LIGHTLY with the NYX Currant to "set" the color
6. Finish off with a bit of Fanplastico by Mac in the center
Face:
Arbonne Corrective Eye Crème
Arbonne BefoRE Sun Damage Control Water Resistant Sunscreen SPF 30
Light dusting of Paula Dorf No Color translucent powder
Mac blush in Prism
Mineralized Skin Finish Duo, light side only as a highlight
(all Mac unless otherwise noted)
Eyes:
1. Prime your eyes with UDPP
2. Apply Shroom to the brow bone area as a highlight and in the tear duct
3. Apply Sketch to the crease, upper crease and inner 1/3 of the lid area LIGHTLY (I used my E.L.F. blending brush)*
4. Add what ever is left of the sketch under the lower lash line LIGHTLY
5. Use what ever is left on your brush of the Shroom and add it to the lid blending over the Sketch
6. Add a tiny bit of Hot Contrast (light side) in the crease blended over the Sketch (I used my Mac 224)*
7. Next apply Urban Decay Gash liquid liner to the upper and lower lash line
8. Use a pencil brush (219) and LIGHTLY add some of the Hot Contrast (light side) to the lower lash line over the Sketch and Gash
9. Apply Urban Decay 24/7 Zero on the waterline
10. Apply black mascara to the top and bottom lashes
11. Do your brows - I use Mac Brun
*Don't forget to blend with a CLEAN blending brush in between steps.
Lips:1. Line just your outer lip line with Urban Decay's Ozone
2. Go over Ozone with NYX 830 Currant lip liner, then lightly fill in the outer 2/3 of your lips with Currant, leaving the center part empty
3. Lightly go over the Currant with Burgundy lip liner from The Body Shop. Be sure to use this liner lightly since it can be very dark if you use a heavy hand. Fill in your ALMOST your entire lips with this color just leaving a bit of empty in the very center
4. Apply So Scarlet by Mac
5. Go over the So Scarlet LIGHTLY with the NYX Currant to "set" the color
6. Finish off with a bit of Fanplastico by Mac in the center
Face:
Arbonne Corrective Eye Crème
Arbonne BefoRE Sun Damage Control Water Resistant Sunscreen SPF 30
Light dusting of Paula Dorf No Color translucent powder
Mac blush in Prism
Mineralized Skin Finish Duo, light side only as a highlight
Kick off your shoes with Frantastic Makeup aka Kuuipo1207!
Today is the official kick off my to new "Kick Off Your Shoes with..." interview series. And who better to kick off the series with than the unstoppable Francine aka kuuipo1207 from YT herself! Definitely a girl after my own heart...
ICM: At what age did you discover make-up and start wearing makeup and what did you wear at first?
K: I first "discovered" makeup when I was really little, maybe about 5 or 6, while playing around in my mom’s makeup drawer. She had a bright red lipstick that I smeared all over my face and a bright blue eye shadow that I hastily swiped across my eye lids before she caught me. So I guess you could say I started wearing makeup when I was 6. Haha! All joking aside, though, I religiously began wearing makeup in middle school when I was 12. My basic daily makeup consisted of a dark (and I mean DARK) reddish-brown lipstick from Wet n Wild
, Cover Girl compact powder
, and some mascara. By high school, my parents realized I wanted more makeup, so they got me one of those cheapy K-mart makeup gift boxes for Christmas and I began using eye shadows. I also finally dropped the horrible ugly brown lipstick I had been wearing and started going for Wet n Wild lipliner #666 (which I still wear occasionally today) and some lip balm. Despite all the pretty colors that came in my palette however, I pretty much just stuck with browns and neutrals cause I was scared of the different colors (and thought they wouldn’t look good with my boring brown eyes). I didn’t step out of the world of neutral colors until college. A friend of mine that I worked with on campus was also doing Mary Kay on the side for some extra bit of money. She convinced me to buy a few colors other than browns, beiges, and shimmery highlight colors and got me to buy a light olivey-type of green, a couple of pinks and gold eye shadows. Even though they weren’t browns or neutrals though, they were still not anything like the colors I wear now.
K: I first "discovered" makeup when I was really little, maybe about 5 or 6, while playing around in my mom’s makeup drawer. She had a bright red lipstick that I smeared all over my face and a bright blue eye shadow that I hastily swiped across my eye lids before she caught me. So I guess you could say I started wearing makeup when I was 6. Haha! All joking aside, though, I religiously began wearing makeup in middle school when I was 12. My basic daily makeup consisted of a dark (and I mean DARK) reddish-brown lipstick from Wet n Wild
, Cover Girl compact powder, and some mascara. By high school, my parents realized I wanted more makeup, so they got me one of those cheapy K-mart makeup gift boxes for Christmas and I began using eye shadows. I also finally dropped the horrible ugly brown lipstick I had been wearing and started going for Wet n Wild lipliner #666 (which I still wear occasionally today) and some lip balm. Despite all the pretty colors that came in my palette however, I pretty much just stuck with browns and neutrals cause I was scared of the different colors (and thought they wouldn’t look good with my boring brown eyes). I didn’t step out of the world of neutral colors until college. A friend of mine that I worked with on campus was also doing Mary Kay on the side for some extra bit of money. She convinced me to buy a few colors other than browns, beiges, and shimmery highlight colors and got me to buy a light olivey-type of green, a couple of pinks and gold eye shadows. Even though they weren’t browns or neutrals though, they were still not anything like the colors I wear now.
ICM: What made you really get into make-up (wearing and/or collecting)?
K: I’d have to put the blame on the girls that I worked with at Bank of Hawaii back in 2003. I was still using Mary Kay but was unhappy with the foundation because it felt so heavy on my face. All they kept talking about was MAC this, MAC that, OMG MAC MAC MAC MAC MAC MAC MAC! I finally broke down and asked them what was so great about it and where I could get it from. One of the girls was doing her makeup at work before we opened and I got to see how pigmented the eye shadows were. It blew my mind! I went to the MAC counter in the Macy’s at Pearlridge Mall the next day. The girl working with me was super duper nice. I had gone in wanting to purchase a new foundation, and one or two blue eye shadows to go with my formal dress that I was wearing for my husband’s military ball later that week. However, instead of doing something blue on me (like I was hoping for), she did a bright green look using Juxt and Humid eye shadows. I was in shock. Never before had I worn a color that bright on my eyes before. Despite the fact that she did green instead of blue, I still ended up walking out of the Macy’s with a bag full of $150 worth of makeup (yeah, one foundation, 2 blue eye shadows, plus other items I had to buy as the cover charge, haha!). Later that day, I met up with some of my friends and they loved the makeup the girl had done. Because they loved the makeup, I went back 2 weeks later and bought the two eye shadows she used. From then on out, it was all downhill for my bank account. I’ve been a relatively avid MAC collector since then.
ICM: What role did or does the YT beauty community play into your love of make-up?
K: The two most important things the YouTube beauty community does for me, are ironically enough on the opposite ends of the spectrum. They help me save money with the reviews that some people do, but at the same time, they also make me want to spend money with the makeup reviews that they do. Haha! In addition to those two roles, the community is a great way of getting different tips or trying different techniques. With how multi-cultural the community is, it’s also nice to hear different tips for different skin types or eye shapes, or even just to get inspiration from the different looks that everyone does.
ICM: Did you start out with drugstore makeup first? If yes what was the first brand(s) you remember using?
K: I first started out using drugstore brands. It was all that my parents would ever get me, since I didn’t work during high school or anything. I would use CoverGirl, Wet n Wild, Maybelline, and whatever brand K-mart and CostCo used for those cosmetic gift basket thingies around Christmas time. Then while I was in college, I used drugstore brands and Mary Kay cosmetics. By 2003, I had switched entirely over to MAC. For the past year or so however I have been trying to branch out and have since then started a mini Make Up For Ever collection, and I have a few Nars Duo eye shadows. I also have some multipurpose minerals from Beauty from the Earth, the Ben Nye Lumiere palette, the Kryolan UV Day Glow palette, two palettes from Urban Decay, just about all of the Loreal HIP duo eye shadows (I think I have all except two or three of them), and all of the HIP pigments. My next big purchase that I’m wanting to make will be getting my hands on some Kryolan Satin Powders and/or some Lime Crime shadows! I’m so excited! LOL! I’m like a kid in the candy store!!
ICM: Who’s your favorite Drag Queen?
K: My husband. Just kidding. He’s not a drag queen but it’s always fun whenever he lets me put makeup on him! Haha! All joking aside though, RuPaul. I LOVE RuPaul. He’s an attractive man. She’s a beautiful woman. Either way, RuPaul is just GORGEOUS! And let’s not forget the fact that RuPaul was the first face of MAC! Work it!
ICM: What was the first brand of high end makeup you ever remember using?
K: In my head, even though it is a good line, I don’t really consider Mary Kay to be a "high end" makeup line. So I’d say MAC was the official first brand of high end makeup I started using.
ICM: What are your staple items, the ones you can’t live without and have replaced at least once if not more?
K: The HG’s of my collection are the following: Shroom eye shadow by MAC, Urban Decay Primer Potion, MAC’s Spice lipliner, MAC’s Pretty Plush Plushglass, MAC’s Smolder eye kohl, Maybelline Colossal Mascara
, MAC Nuance mineralize blush (I just ordered 3 more for back-ups before it’s all gone since it’s limited edition), and the newly accepted Make Up For Ever HD Powder (a freakin’ fabulous powder!).
ICM: Brett Michaels or Dee Snyder and why?
K: OMG! Brett Michaels!! Hello?! He’s gorgeous!! Dee Snider doesn’t even compare let alone fall into the same category of rating!
K: I’d have to put the blame on the girls that I worked with at Bank of Hawaii back in 2003. I was still using Mary Kay but was unhappy with the foundation because it felt so heavy on my face. All they kept talking about was MAC this, MAC that, OMG MAC MAC MAC MAC MAC MAC MAC! I finally broke down and asked them what was so great about it and where I could get it from. One of the girls was doing her makeup at work before we opened and I got to see how pigmented the eye shadows were. It blew my mind! I went to the MAC counter in the Macy’s at Pearlridge Mall the next day. The girl working with me was super duper nice. I had gone in wanting to purchase a new foundation, and one or two blue eye shadows to go with my formal dress that I was wearing for my husband’s military ball later that week. However, instead of doing something blue on me (like I was hoping for), she did a bright green look using Juxt and Humid eye shadows. I was in shock. Never before had I worn a color that bright on my eyes before. Despite the fact that she did green instead of blue, I still ended up walking out of the Macy’s with a bag full of $150 worth of makeup (yeah, one foundation, 2 blue eye shadows, plus other items I had to buy as the cover charge, haha!). Later that day, I met up with some of my friends and they loved the makeup the girl had done. Because they loved the makeup, I went back 2 weeks later and bought the two eye shadows she used. From then on out, it was all downhill for my bank account. I’ve been a relatively avid MAC collector since then.
ICM: What role did or does the YT beauty community play into your love of make-up?
K: The two most important things the YouTube beauty community does for me, are ironically enough on the opposite ends of the spectrum. They help me save money with the reviews that some people do, but at the same time, they also make me want to spend money with the makeup reviews that they do. Haha! In addition to those two roles, the community is a great way of getting different tips or trying different techniques. With how multi-cultural the community is, it’s also nice to hear different tips for different skin types or eye shapes, or even just to get inspiration from the different looks that everyone does.
ICM: Did you start out with drugstore makeup first? If yes what was the first brand(s) you remember using?
K: I first started out using drugstore brands. It was all that my parents would ever get me, since I didn’t work during high school or anything. I would use CoverGirl, Wet n Wild, Maybelline, and whatever brand K-mart and CostCo used for those cosmetic gift basket thingies around Christmas time. Then while I was in college, I used drugstore brands and Mary Kay cosmetics. By 2003, I had switched entirely over to MAC. For the past year or so however I have been trying to branch out and have since then started a mini Make Up For Ever collection, and I have a few Nars Duo eye shadows. I also have some multipurpose minerals from Beauty from the Earth, the Ben Nye Lumiere palette, the Kryolan UV Day Glow palette, two palettes from Urban Decay, just about all of the Loreal HIP duo eye shadows (I think I have all except two or three of them), and all of the HIP pigments. My next big purchase that I’m wanting to make will be getting my hands on some Kryolan Satin Powders and/or some Lime Crime shadows! I’m so excited! LOL! I’m like a kid in the candy store!!
ICM: Who’s your favorite Drag Queen?
K: My husband. Just kidding. He’s not a drag queen but it’s always fun whenever he lets me put makeup on him! Haha! All joking aside though, RuPaul. I LOVE RuPaul. He’s an attractive man. She’s a beautiful woman. Either way, RuPaul is just GORGEOUS! And let’s not forget the fact that RuPaul was the first face of MAC! Work it!
ICM: What was the first brand of high end makeup you ever remember using?
K: In my head, even though it is a good line, I don’t really consider Mary Kay to be a "high end" makeup line. So I’d say MAC was the official first brand of high end makeup I started using.
ICM: What are your staple items, the ones you can’t live without and have replaced at least once if not more?
K: The HG’s of my collection are the following: Shroom eye shadow by MAC, Urban Decay Primer Potion, MAC’s Spice lipliner, MAC’s Pretty Plush Plushglass, MAC’s Smolder eye kohl, Maybelline Colossal Mascara
, MAC Nuance mineralize blush (I just ordered 3 more for back-ups before it’s all gone since it’s limited edition), and the newly accepted Make Up For Ever HD Powder (a freakin’ fabulous powder!).ICM: Brett Michaels or Dee Snyder and why?
K: OMG! Brett Michaels!! Hello?! He’s gorgeous!! Dee Snider doesn’t even compare let alone fall into the same category of rating!
ICM: Any makeup or skincare tips or tricks that you’d like to share?
K: Always moisturize, wear sunscreen (even in winter), and always use a primer (seriously! It’s worth it!).
ICM: What would you say to someone who is just getting into makeup to help him or her get started on the right foot?
K: Practice makes perfect. Your face is a canvas and you are the painter. Anything goes in makeup, just like art. If you don’t like the painting, wash off the makeup and start again. Don’t get frustrated if you don’t get it right the first time. It’s not like the Mona Lisa was Da Vinci’s first painting. Just keep practicing. Also remember, that what may work for one person, may not necessarily work for you. Become a sponge and take in tips from anywhere you read/watch/hear and try them out on yourself. If it works, stick with it. If it doesn’t tweak it to make it work for you, or just try something else.
ICM: What do you do for a living and how does makeup play a role in that if any?
K: I am currently a domestic goddess that is going to school online to become a medical transcriptionist. Makeup, for me, is just a hobby and something I enjoy playing around with.
ICM: If you had to label your makeup style what would you call it?
K: Frantastic. Haha! I’m not really sure what I would label my makeup style because some days I’m very natural and neutral and other days I wear whatever comes to mind. My style would be labeled as Label-less, ha!
ICM: Where do you get your inspiration for looks?
K: Celebrities, other makeup artists, looks I’ve seen on the web/TV/magazine, colors from nature, anything and everything.
ICM: Was or is there a specific genre of music that influenced your makeup style?
K: I don’t think so. I like just about anything when it comes to music (except for death metal. I think I’ll pass on that genre).
ICM: What is your favorite “go to” look if you have little time but don’t want to run out the door with a naked face?
K: Easy foundation (MAC Mineralized SkinFinish), blush, Ricepaper from lashline to brow, Wedge in the crease, mascara, light pinkish lipgloss or just some chapstick, and I’m out the door.
ICM: Why did you start making videos on YT and or start a blog?
K: I can’t remember how I came across to it, but one day I was browsing through the net at home, and I came across some makeup videos by "makemeovertutorials". I watched all of her videos that day and love them! I then thought to myself "Hey! I’ve been told that I’m pretty good at makeup! I should try making some videos for $#!t$ and giggles and see what happens." Next thing I know I have requests coming in out the wazoo and I’m getting compliments from people like E. Jean of Elle magazine on YouTube! I was uber excited and overwhelmed!
ICM: Looking back, what are some things you wish someone would have told you before you jumped into the makeup addiction?
K: There’s nothing that I can think of. I seem to be pretty happy with my addiction. The husband, however, isn’t too fond of the spending frenzies I have from time to time.
ICM: What is your favorite color?
K: GREEEEEEEEEEENNNNNN! :) It makes me happy!
ICM: What is your favorite type of food or your favorite dish?
K: I LOVE Japanese food – sushi and all! I also love Hawaiian food and Samoan food as well as Chinese.
ICM: What other hobbies do you have?
K: Drunkeroke (karaoke at the bar, haha), singing in the car, I’m starting to take up photography a little bit, and anything nature related.
ICM: What is your favorite 80s movie?
K: I’m a rather movie deprived person, so of all the 80s movies I’ve seen (which isn’t very many…trust me), I’d have to say my favorite is "Dirty Dancing."
ICM: What is the best brand or type of make up that will last through the “walk of shame”?
K: I’d have to say of all the makeup I’ve tried, Make Up Forever would be the best foundation wise, and as long as you’re wearing a good primer like UDPP under your eye makeup, you’ll be good to go…I’m speaking from personal experience here, lol.
ICM: What is your favorite online store(s) for beauty products or deals?
K: Ulta, Sephora, or MAC when they are having sales (which isn’t often enough, MAC!)
ICM: Who is your favorite comedian?
K: Bill Engvall.
ICM: Anything else you’d like to share with the readers?
K: You guys rock!!! I love you more than chocolate!! Haha!
Blog: http://frantasticmakeup.com
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/kuuipo1207
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/kuuipo1207
BlogTv: http://www.blogtv.com/people/kuuipo1207
Myspace: http://www.blogtv.com/people/kuuipo1207
Facebook: search for Kuuipo Francine
Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/people/kuuipo1207looks/
MyBlogLog: http://www.flickr.com/people/kuuipo1207looks/
K: Always moisturize, wear sunscreen (even in winter), and always use a primer (seriously! It’s worth it!).
ICM: What would you say to someone who is just getting into makeup to help him or her get started on the right foot?
K: Practice makes perfect. Your face is a canvas and you are the painter. Anything goes in makeup, just like art. If you don’t like the painting, wash off the makeup and start again. Don’t get frustrated if you don’t get it right the first time. It’s not like the Mona Lisa was Da Vinci’s first painting. Just keep practicing. Also remember, that what may work for one person, may not necessarily work for you. Become a sponge and take in tips from anywhere you read/watch/hear and try them out on yourself. If it works, stick with it. If it doesn’t tweak it to make it work for you, or just try something else.
ICM: What do you do for a living and how does makeup play a role in that if any?
K: I am currently a domestic goddess that is going to school online to become a medical transcriptionist. Makeup, for me, is just a hobby and something I enjoy playing around with.
ICM: If you had to label your makeup style what would you call it?
K: Frantastic. Haha! I’m not really sure what I would label my makeup style because some days I’m very natural and neutral and other days I wear whatever comes to mind. My style would be labeled as Label-less, ha!
ICM: Where do you get your inspiration for looks?
K: Celebrities, other makeup artists, looks I’ve seen on the web/TV/magazine, colors from nature, anything and everything.
ICM: Was or is there a specific genre of music that influenced your makeup style?
K: I don’t think so. I like just about anything when it comes to music (except for death metal. I think I’ll pass on that genre).
ICM: What is your favorite “go to” look if you have little time but don’t want to run out the door with a naked face?
K: Easy foundation (MAC Mineralized SkinFinish), blush, Ricepaper from lashline to brow, Wedge in the crease, mascara, light pinkish lipgloss or just some chapstick, and I’m out the door.
ICM: Why did you start making videos on YT and or start a blog?
K: I can’t remember how I came across to it, but one day I was browsing through the net at home, and I came across some makeup videos by "makemeovertutorials". I watched all of her videos that day and love them! I then thought to myself "Hey! I’ve been told that I’m pretty good at makeup! I should try making some videos for $#!t$ and giggles and see what happens." Next thing I know I have requests coming in out the wazoo and I’m getting compliments from people like E. Jean of Elle magazine on YouTube! I was uber excited and overwhelmed!
ICM: Looking back, what are some things you wish someone would have told you before you jumped into the makeup addiction?
K: There’s nothing that I can think of. I seem to be pretty happy with my addiction. The husband, however, isn’t too fond of the spending frenzies I have from time to time.
ICM: What is your favorite color?
K: GREEEEEEEEEEENNNNNN! :) It makes me happy!
ICM: What is your favorite type of food or your favorite dish?
K: I LOVE Japanese food – sushi and all! I also love Hawaiian food and Samoan food as well as Chinese.
ICM: What other hobbies do you have?
K: Drunkeroke (karaoke at the bar, haha), singing in the car, I’m starting to take up photography a little bit, and anything nature related.
ICM: What is your favorite 80s movie?
K: I’m a rather movie deprived person, so of all the 80s movies I’ve seen (which isn’t very many…trust me), I’d have to say my favorite is "Dirty Dancing."
ICM: What is the best brand or type of make up that will last through the “walk of shame”?
K: I’d have to say of all the makeup I’ve tried, Make Up Forever would be the best foundation wise, and as long as you’re wearing a good primer like UDPP under your eye makeup, you’ll be good to go…I’m speaking from personal experience here, lol.
ICM: What is your favorite online store(s) for beauty products or deals?
K: Ulta, Sephora, or MAC when they are having sales (which isn’t often enough, MAC!)
ICM: Who is your favorite comedian?
K: Bill Engvall.
ICM: Anything else you’d like to share with the readers?
K: You guys rock!!! I love you more than chocolate!! Haha!
Blog: http://frantasticmakeup.com
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/kuuipo1207
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/kuuipo1207
BlogTv: http://www.blogtv.com/people/kuuipo1207
Myspace: http://www.blogtv.com/people/kuuipo1207
Facebook: search for Kuuipo Francine
Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/people/kuuipo1207looks/
MyBlogLog: http://www.flickr.com/people/kuuipo1207looks/
Saturday, January 24, 2009
If it sounds to good to be true, it probably is!
Originally posted: Jan. 19th, updated on Jan. 24th with video and more links.
When browsing online for Mac BE CAREFUL! Lots of people out there are trying to rip you off just to make a buck. Don't believe me, look for yourself.
Fake palettes (thanks to xsparkage for this link)
Fake everything (thanks to Pursebuzz for this link)
Those are just 2 examples, but there are many more out there. Yes, Mac is expensive and in my opinion, you do get what you pay for so if you find Mac on line and the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. If you want Mac but can't afford it, check out your local CCO or even Costco (yes some stores are carrying Mac - not a ton but it's there people!).
If you know of other sources of fake Mac please put them in the comments section and I will update this post (with a link to you if you'd like). If you would prefer to email me and remain anonymous then just send me a note with the link and let me know.
Xsparkage just did a great video on Fake Mac, check it out
And here some comparison links that listed to see the difference between the fakes vs authentic Mac. From Spectra.net, from eHow.com.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month - I am a survivor!
"What is Cervical Health Awareness Month?The United States Congress designated January as Cervical Health Awareness Month. During January, you may wish to highlight issues related to cervical cancer, HPV disease and the importance of early detection. Some of the issues you may wish to highlight are personal stories of women and family members/caregivers battling issues related to their persistent HPV/precancer and/or cervical cancer. You may wish to highlight recent advances and research in the prevention, detection and treatment of cervical cancer or HPV. You can highlight the success of your local/regional early detection cervical cancer screening and treatment programs and human-interest stories on the importance of early detection, education and the emotional issues related to battling cervical cancer and HPV."
This March I will celebrate 5 years of being cancer free! It isn't something that I talk about very often but it is something that is part of me. In February 2004 I was diagnosed with stage 1a cervical cancer. Fortunately it was caught early enough that I was able to avoid chemo, radiation or a full hysterectomy. Because of my age at the time and the fact that I wasn't married nor did I have any children my gynecologist referred me to an gynecological oncologist who specialized in a newer surgery called a Laparoscopic Radical Trachelectomy. One month after my diagnosis I had the surgery. I had some complications but all in all the surgery went well and I am still cancer free. I don't want to go into great detail in this post (I will tell more on my 5 year anniversary) but I did want to give some background as to why this Month and this cause is so important to me.
If you do one thing to take care of yourself this month PLEASE schedule our annual PAP. Regardless of how many regular PAPs you've had in the past it us crucial to get checked EVERY YEAR! I know that there are some schools of thought that say if you've had many years of a regular PAP then you don't need to get checked annually and you can go every 2 years. Well speaking from personal experience, had I not been diligent about going EVERY SINGLE YEAR even though they ALWAYS came back fine, I don't know if I'd still be here today. I realize that sounds kinda harsh but its a fact. Prior to 2004 I had been going for annual PAPs every year for 13 years and every year the results were negative, meaning regular, everything was fine.
Between 2002 and 2003 something happened. No one knows when but it was the December 2003 PAP (I usually went at the end of the year) that came back abnormal. My gynecologist followed procedure and did a colposcopy and even a cone biopsy. Still abnormal, this wasn't going away, for whatever reason my body was not fighting this one on its own and in less than one years time I went from healthy to being diagnosed with the beginning stages of cancer. Had I waited until December 2004 to get my PAP (2 years after the last normal one) the cancer would have progressed and who knows what stage it would have been at when discovered. Fortunately for me, my doctor believed in ANNUAL PAPs regardless of the results and because of her I am still here, healthy and in theory can still have children.
So please, I know it's a hassle and uncomfortable but that few minutes of laying in the office with your feet in the oh so lovely stirrups can safe your life. Do it for yourself, do it for your family!
From the National Cervical Coalition Website:
"Cervical Cancer Screening Saves Lives, yet...
-11% of United States women report that they do not have their Pap test screenings
-In the United States, About 10,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year and about 3,700 women die in the USA each year from this disease.
-Women in developing countries account for about 85 percent of both the yearly cases of cervical cancer (estimated at 473,000 cases worldwide) and the yearly deaths from cervical cancer (estimated at 253,500 deaths worldwide).
-In the majority of developing countries, cervical cancer remains the number-one cause of cancer-related deaths among women.
-A woman who does not have her three shot prevention vaccine and her regular Pap test screen and HPV test when recommended, significantly increases her chances of developing cervical cancer.
-High-Risk HPV Types are directly related to cervical cancer, yet many women are unaware of what HPV is or the relationship it has to cervical cancer. "
-11% of United States women report that they do not have their Pap test screenings
-In the United States, About 10,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year and about 3,700 women die in the USA each year from this disease.
-Women in developing countries account for about 85 percent of both the yearly cases of cervical cancer (estimated at 473,000 cases worldwide) and the yearly deaths from cervical cancer (estimated at 253,500 deaths worldwide).
-In the majority of developing countries, cervical cancer remains the number-one cause of cancer-related deaths among women.
-A woman who does not have her three shot prevention vaccine and her regular Pap test screen and HPV test when recommended, significantly increases her chances of developing cervical cancer.
-High-Risk HPV Types are directly related to cervical cancer, yet many women are unaware of what HPV is or the relationship it has to cervical cancer. "
Please visit the National Cervical Cancer Coalition for more info on how you can help yourself and others.
My Spell Haul
If you are a beauty YouTubber at all I'm sure that by now you've heard of Spell Cosmetics. If you haven't then be sure to check the links below so that you can see all the goodness they have to offer.
Over the weekend I received my long awaited package of goodies. I swear when it comes to packages from beauty companies I feel like a kid in a candy store. I always want more and I can never get enough and sometimes I think I even experience what could be considered a "makeup high." Every time a package arrives on our doorstep my husband's response is usually "What did you order now? How come I never get any packages?" I've tried to explain it to him but he just doesn't get it. Make up is far cheaper than car parts so I get more packages than he does. It's that simple. One vintage aluminum timing cover equals at least 2-3 good sized MAC hauls or 4-7 mini hauls depending on what my "budget" is (budget is in quotes because I haven't actually set one yet but it's on the 2009 "to do list").
With that said, I got my most recent fix from Spell. It arrived on Saturday and I can't wait to start using all my new goodies! If you wanna see what I got check out my latest haul video.
Products:
-Harmony Mineral Foundation in Medium and sample in Delicate
-Get Loaded Pigment in INTENTION
-Perfect 10 Polish in Elle
-Obvious Lip Gloss in Luciana
-Sexy Places Illuminator in Natural Glow
Thank you again to Gemma & Elle!
If and when you do order from Spell be sure to use Discount code: Rae4OSU for 10% off your purchase and a free VIP Spell Girl membership!
Check Spell Cosmetics out:
On You Tube
Their online store
On Twitter
Their blog
Tube Mascara Review
Tube vs. Tube vs. Tube
In my quest for the perfect mascara I've come across 3 tubing mascaras. After trying them all I decided to do a full review* for you. Be sure to check out my video review as well.
In one corner we have what I consider to be the original Tube mascara (I found this one first so it's the original for me). Blinc Kiss Me.
In the next corner we have Too Faced Lash Injection Pin Point.
And in the next corner we have the newest of the bunch, L'Oreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes.
I originally discovered Blinc in July of 2008. My manicurist wears it. One day while getting my nails done I noticed how great her lashes looked and asked what mascara she was wearing. She told me it was called Blinc and that it was this new mascara that actually coated your lashes in little tubes. This sounded super cool so I rushed over to Sephora to check it out.
At first it seemed a little weird, but that was simply because as I applied the mascara I could see and feel that something different was going on. On the packaging it tells you that the mascara dries in 2 minutes and that after that you can't apply more. Of course I don't always believe what the directions said so sure enough I waited till it dried and tried to apply more. Didn't work, lashes were already coated. I could visibly see a difference. Not only were they longer but they were shiny and looked different than other mascaras. After touching my lashes and rubbing my eyes (I had to test out their "promise" right?) , I noticed that the lashes themselves felt different. Like they had a coating of some sort, almost plasticy but not in a gross way if that makes sense. It felt like my lashes were protected.
Next came time to wash it off. That was odd at first too because obviously rubbing them didn't cause the mascara to budge and it was waterproof... After rereading the directions and gently trying their recommended approach it worked. Some water and gentle rubbing and sure enough these little "tubes" slid right off. Now to me they don't look like tubes at all, they look more like tiny little black pieces of stringy, wet, eyelash glue (does that make sense?). I'm sure they are tubes but they are just so tiny that I see something else. Either way, it washes off so easily and best of all there is no flaking or clumping which means no irritation to your eyes or contacts. No raccoon eyes either. Once this stuff dries it doesn't come off till you wash it off. The only thing I wish is that the brush had bristles that were closer together and that the primer was more easily available. The formula itself is great and I love that it lasts more than all day (yes I've slept with it on and my lashes still look great the next morning) and that it is gentle enough for my sensitive, contact wearing eyes.
Price: $22-25
Waterproofability: Most definitely
Does it Clump: No
Does it flake or crumble: No
Does it smudge: No
Does it add Volume/Thickness: No, at least not for me
Does it add Length: Definitely
Does it add curl: Yes
Lash separation: Yes but maybe a but too much
Good for sensitive eyes/contact wearers: Definitely
Overall rating: 4.5 out of 5. If the brush was better I think I would give it a 5
Would I recommend this: Most definitely, especially if you like waterproof mascara but don't want to damage your lashes.
Blinc Kiss Me Mascara can be found at Sephora (online and in stores), the Blinc website or even Amazon.com
The reality is that I had heard that Too Faced had a tube mascara but I didn't go searching for it, it just kinda came to me. Last Fall (2008) I bought the infamous Lash Stash and the Lash Injection was one of the 10 mini mascaras included. Now maybe its just my tube, but no where on the tube does it say that it coats your lashes in tubes. The reason I found out was when I went to wash it off and noticed that it didn't wash off like regular mascara. It had these weird little chunks that were similar to my Blinc mascara but not full pieces so I was actually confused at first. After I finally got the mascara off I went to Sephora.com to read about this mascara and sure enough, there in their description it says, "Lash Injection Pinpoint's exclusive 3D Polymers build waterproof tubes around each lash." That would have been nice to know before I started thinking that my mascara had turned on me. So that was my first bone (as in bone to pick) with this mascara. It didn't say tubes on the bottle. Once I realize exactly what this mascara was supposed to do I tried it again with a more open mind. Meaning, it had to be applied differently and washed off differently. First (actually second) impression, it has an obvious smell. Not horrible and not totally overwhelming, but its there and noticeable. Love the brush, it has tight bristles that reach and coat all my lashes and it adds some volume and thickness as well as a bit of length but nothing extreme as the tube says.
The bad that I noticed instantly, it flakes and those flakes manage to get into my eyes and irritate my contacts. It also smears/runs a bit when worn on my lower lashes. It does not was off as easily as the Blinc and once again crumbles and gets into my eyes.
Price: $8.50-19.50 based on the size you buy
Waterproofability: Yes
Does it Clump: No
Does it Flake or Crumble: Yes, both
Does it smudge: No, except if worn on bottom lashes and you have eye cream or something else that is not matte, ie: oily skin
Does it add Volume/Thickness: Yes
Does it add Length: Not much
Does it add curl: I didn't notice any
Lash separation: Yes
Good for sensitive eyes/contact wearers: No because it flakes and crumbles
Overall rating: 2.5 out of 5. I don't like the smell or the fact that it flakes and crumbles during the day and when I wash it off.
Would I recommend this: Not really
Too Faced Lash Injection can be found at Too Faced, Ulta or Sephora
If you are a regular reader of my blog or viewer of my YouTube channel you already know that I don't use a lot of "drug store" brands. It's not because I have anything against them or think that they aren't good enough, its simply because I have been wearing makeup long enough to know what products and brands I like and what works for me and my sensitive skin. This doesn't mean that I am opposed to trying new brands or products, after all I can't pass up a deal, but I will admit that 96% of my make up would fall under the "high end" brands. Unless we're talking lipliners then its 96% drugstore :). But I digress... Even though I love Blinc I was still on a mission to find the "perfect" tube mascara, for me. Blinc is almost there but as usual, I wanted more.
(that's a mouth full!). I was hesitant at first since my only other experience with L'Oreal mascaras was as teen and it caused HORRIBLE irritation to my eyes. We're talking red and bloodshot to the point of looking scary. At first I couldn't find this stuff anywhere, they were constantly sold out. Then one day while roaming around my favorite drug store, Long's, I saw the display. It was new and FULL and the best part, it was BOGO! Now, if you know me at all you know I can't pass up BOGO. For $10.99 I could get TWO of these new cultish items. Of course I didn't need 2 but 1 was FREE so I had to get it. I was so excited. A tube mascara with a primer (I love lash primer if it works well) AND it was cheap in comparison the others and really cheap at the BOGO price. I went home, I made a haul video and could not wait to try it out. First thoughts, great primer but I hate the construction of the overall tube/wand. Too bulky, but nothing to toss it out over. I move on to the mascara. Nice full brush, gets all my lashes, add volume and thickness for sure but the only extra length I saw was a direct result of the primer. Again, not bad. My main bone(s) with this one is that it does flake and crumble, again getting into my eyes and on my contacts and it causes raccoon eyes after I was it off. This happens both during the day and when I wash it off. That alone makes me question just how waterproof it really is. It also washes off strangely. Very easily but almost too easily, so much so that I question their tubing technology.Price: $9.49 - $12.99 depending on where you buy it
Waterproofability: Yes
Does it Clump: A teeny bit
Does it Flake/Crumble: Yes
Does it smudge: Only after washing it off
Does it add Volume/Thickness: Yes
Does it add Length: Some
Does it add curl: Not noticeably
Lash separation: Yes
Good for sensitive eyes/contact wearers: Not in my opinion
Overall rating: 3.5 out of 5, they need to work on their formulation. Its better than Lash Injection but similar issues.
Would I recommend this: Only if you really want a tube mascara but don't want to pay more than $13 for one
L'Oreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes can be found at any drugstore, on the L'Oreal Paris site, Ulta or on Amazon.com
*This review as well as any others on my blog are not influenced by anyone or any company, they are strictly MY personal opinions based on trying the products myself. I do not expect everyone or anyone to agree with me. I am simply sharing information and conclusions that I have come to based on trying an individual product and I hope that somehow it helps someone else.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Karmaloop Inauguration Sale offer 48 hours
http://www.karmaloop-updates.com/icafgcge_cuhunneola.html
To Celebrate the Inauguration of Barak Obama, Karmaloop is Offering
For next 48 hours only,
get instant $25 off on purchase of $75 or more
Use Code: BAMA
offer good on all karmaloop New, Regular and Sale Items
Checkout Obama T-shirts
http://www.karmaloop-updates.com/lkdthkzs_cuhunneola.html
Also NEW ARRIVALS!!!
Guy's New:
http://www.karmaloop-updates.com/tkzclkvu_cuhunneola.html
Ladies New:
http://www.karmaloop-updates.com/tkzclkvk_cuhunneola.html
To Celebrate the Inauguration of Barak Obama, Karmaloop is Offering
For next 48 hours only,
get instant $25 off on purchase of $75 or more
Use Code: BAMA
offer good on all karmaloop New, Regular and Sale Items
Checkout Obama T-shirts
http://www.karmaloop-updates.com/lkdthkzs_cuhunneola.html
Also NEW ARRIVALS!!!
Guy's New:
http://www.karmaloop-updates.com/tkzclkvu_cuhunneola.html
Ladies New:
http://www.karmaloop-updates.com/tkzclkvk_cuhunneola.html
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Mineral Makeup
Do you use mineral make-up? Are you curious about mineral make-up? Here is a great video posted by gossmakeupartist about the different ingredients in mineral make up an a lot of the hype an controversy that surrounds it. Thanks to lollipop26 for telling us about this video.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Urban Decay answered me!
Ok, so not really, really, but kinda. If you Twitter at all then you may have seen that Urban Decay does too. I started following them and next thing I know, they are following me. How cool is that?
So earlier this morning they asked if anyone had questions about Urban Decay products, so of course I piped up and asked about the UDPP bottle. Basically asking if they were going to repackage it so that we didn't have to keep cutting them open to get all the product. They responded saying that cutting then open will cause the UDPP to dry out and that the applicator is designed to get out all the product (that tweet has since been deleted - interesting). I responded asking if they had seen the numerous posts and videos about it and even sent then a link to one post.
Then I got this response (copied directly from my @ replies), "@gypsydancer13 we are working on a new bottle. here's a trick: turn your bottle upside down, have a whack at it, and you'll get more product about 1 hour ago from web in reply to gypsydancer13"
Who knew that the UDPP bottle was like a bottle of Heinz 57? Of course I don't really believe that this will work but I will give it a shot. Anything to keep from having to hot rod my UDPP bottle. It has lasted me about 6 months but I KNOW there is more product in there. So for any of you out there who haven't performed surgery on the bottle yet, try the whacking technique mentioned above and let me know how it works. Better yet, follow UD on Twitter and tell them!
So earlier this morning they asked if anyone had questions about Urban Decay products, so of course I piped up and asked about the UDPP bottle. Basically asking if they were going to repackage it so that we didn't have to keep cutting them open to get all the product. They responded saying that cutting then open will cause the UDPP to dry out and that the applicator is designed to get out all the product (that tweet has since been deleted - interesting). I responded asking if they had seen the numerous posts and videos about it and even sent then a link to one post.
Then I got this response (copied directly from my @ replies), "@gypsydancer13 we are working on a new bottle. here's a trick: turn your bottle upside down, have a whack at it, and you'll get more product about 1 hour ago from web in reply to gypsydancer13"
Who knew that the UDPP bottle was like a bottle of Heinz 57? Of course I don't really believe that this will work but I will give it a shot. Anything to keep from having to hot rod my UDPP bottle. It has lasted me about 6 months but I KNOW there is more product in there. So for any of you out there who haven't performed surgery on the bottle yet, try the whacking technique mentioned above and let me know how it works. Better yet, follow UD on Twitter and tell them!
Thursday, January 15, 2009
For all you Gel Eyeliner lovers
Do you love Mac Fluid Line, but want more colors and cheaper prices?Are you simply a fan of gel liners and you want even more colors to add to your arsenal? Well look no more. Check out this great article from Mythbuster Beauty and find out just how and where you can find your favorite product in many, many more colors!
(photos courtesy of their respective websites)
Would you buy used makeup?
Maybe it's a sign of the times or sharing cooties with strangers is suddenly the "in" thing to do, either way I don't get it.
In the past 2 weeks alone I've seen a disturbing about of blog posts and YouTube videos where people are advertising a "SALE" and when you click to find out more their "sale" seems to consist of used makeup. Yes, USED as in you can see visible signs of usage. Now at least these people are being honest and letting you know that the items are used or "have been swatched a few times," but still, the point is they are trying to make money by sell people USED makeup. Oh and what's even better is that the prices that they are setting are close to the full retail price. WTF?! Am I totally missing something here? Why would I want to buy your USED Mac eyeshadow for $12? A new one is only $2.50 more and comes cootie free. That is just one example of what I've seen posted. But really, I thought MakeUpAlley was the place to SWAP things that you no longer wanted. Yes it is still used stuff but at least its used for used and not trying to get full price for something that is no longer, well, FULL.
Of course I've seen people selling used makeup on ebay for years and always thought it was kinda gross and unsanitary but that's ebay. I guess what gets me more about this new trend is that I'm finding these "sales" on fellow YouTuber and Blogger sites. People who I otherwise admire for their talent and skill. So to see that they are trying to pawn off their used items is rather disappointing to say the least.
Don't get me wrong, I'm a girl who loves a deal and has even sold stuff on line in the past to make a buck, but NEW stuff. Of course I have plenty of cosmetics that I regret buying or that I have completely stopped using but in those cases I usually pass it on to a family member, ie: my sister or mother since we all share the same genetics anyway the cooties are a little less, well, cootified if you will.
Maybe I'm the only one grossed out and shocked by all this but all I can think of is used underwear. Don't ask me why, but after the 5th or so posting/video that I saw all I could think was, "would you sell your used underwear?" or better yet, "what kind of person would buy used underwear?" Now before you start mentioning Thrift stores or places like Buffalo Exchange or Wasteland where they do in fact buy your used garments. Used clothes are different, you can wash them in scalding hot water and get rid of any traces of the previous owner (soap, bleach etc.). Makeup on the other hand, at least to me, just seems more personal, like underwear. Can you really get rid of all the lip cooties by dipping that lipstick in alcohol? I know you can't do that with a gloss. And what about the eyeshadow, how can you be sure to rid it of any possibilities of pink eye? And pigments, how do you know the original owner didn't double dip their brush thereby contaminating the entire jar?
Maybe it just me being a germaphone but I find this new "trend" really gross and somewhat insulting. Insulting because the sellers expect people not only to pay but pay close to full price for their throwaways.
In the past 2 weeks alone I've seen a disturbing about of blog posts and YouTube videos where people are advertising a "SALE" and when you click to find out more their "sale" seems to consist of used makeup. Yes, USED as in you can see visible signs of usage. Now at least these people are being honest and letting you know that the items are used or "have been swatched a few times," but still, the point is they are trying to make money by sell people USED makeup. Oh and what's even better is that the prices that they are setting are close to the full retail price. WTF?! Am I totally missing something here? Why would I want to buy your USED Mac eyeshadow for $12? A new one is only $2.50 more and comes cootie free. That is just one example of what I've seen posted. But really, I thought MakeUpAlley was the place to SWAP things that you no longer wanted. Yes it is still used stuff but at least its used for used and not trying to get full price for something that is no longer, well, FULL.
Of course I've seen people selling used makeup on ebay for years and always thought it was kinda gross and unsanitary but that's ebay. I guess what gets me more about this new trend is that I'm finding these "sales" on fellow YouTuber and Blogger sites. People who I otherwise admire for their talent and skill. So to see that they are trying to pawn off their used items is rather disappointing to say the least.
Don't get me wrong, I'm a girl who loves a deal and has even sold stuff on line in the past to make a buck, but NEW stuff. Of course I have plenty of cosmetics that I regret buying or that I have completely stopped using but in those cases I usually pass it on to a family member, ie: my sister or mother since we all share the same genetics anyway the cooties are a little less, well, cootified if you will.
Maybe I'm the only one grossed out and shocked by all this but all I can think of is used underwear. Don't ask me why, but after the 5th or so posting/video that I saw all I could think was, "would you sell your used underwear?" or better yet, "what kind of person would buy used underwear?" Now before you start mentioning Thrift stores or places like Buffalo Exchange or Wasteland where they do in fact buy your used garments. Used clothes are different, you can wash them in scalding hot water and get rid of any traces of the previous owner (soap, bleach etc.). Makeup on the other hand, at least to me, just seems more personal, like underwear. Can you really get rid of all the lip cooties by dipping that lipstick in alcohol? I know you can't do that with a gloss. And what about the eyeshadow, how can you be sure to rid it of any possibilities of pink eye? And pigments, how do you know the original owner didn't double dip their brush thereby contaminating the entire jar?
Maybe it just me being a germaphone but I find this new "trend" really gross and somewhat insulting. Insulting because the sellers expect people not only to pay but pay close to full price for their throwaways.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Special Friends & Family Offer: 20% Off Your Entire Purchase!
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Tuesday, January 13, 2009
NOC-Out Cover-Up Compact Review
This compact contains a generous amount of concealers that are as diverse as your skin's needs. The yellow cover-up combats pesky redness and inflamed blemishes; the peachy beige is best for hiding those telling under eye circles; and the salmon base masks age and sun spots, as well as veins and other dark discolorations. We found success mixing and matching the creamy colors to create the perfect eye-brightening shade, which we applied to the inner corners. And, application is a no-brainer with a diagram on the bottom of the compact that explains how to use each color. Knock-out!"
For years I've been trying to find the perfect concealer. Something that will hide the purple under eye circles that I get from either being sick or when I don't get a good night's sleep. Fortunately it's not something that I need daily, but on the days that I do need it, I NEED it! So far every concealer that I have come across has not only not concealed anything but it as gotten cakey, crepey or creased. It has become very frustrating and cost more money that I would prefer to spend on products that do work. I don't wear foundation so I need a concealer that will not only do what it claims to do but also blend into my skin and moisturizer and that can be easily "set" with a thin sprinkling of translucent powder.
After trying the NOC-Out Cover-Up Compact I think I finally found "the one!" I had been waiting for a day that I woke up with a lot of purple under my eyes to really but this stuff to the test and sure enough after having a cough for 2 weeks my sleep had had slowly deteriorated by Friday. Last week I woke up desperately needing something to cover my horrible night's sleep and sure enough NOC-Out Cover-Up Compact did the trick! I was in shock to say the least. I used the salmony/coraly color in the trio and sure enough just a few dabs with a brush and the purple was GONE. I was in shock and awe, never has a concealer done this for me. I didn't even have to cake it on, I barely had to use any. I couldn't believe it so I tried it again the next day and this time recorded it for my YT channel and for my subscribers to see because I still couldn't believe that I had finally found something to cover my purple under peepers! I even went and asked my husband if he noticed anything on my face and he said no and then asked what he was looking for. I explained to him what I had used, and he was already aware of my purpleness that morning and he even got REALLY close and couldn't see anything. Not only was the purple covered but there was no evidence of concealing! It totally blends in and does what it needs to do.
Next I decided to try and cover the redness on my cheeks. Now this has never really bothered me since it eventually goes away with a little translucent powder and blush but for the sake of science and beauty I decided to try that whole "flawless" face and once again reached for my new BFF. I tried both the yellow section as well as the more flesh colored side, one on each cheek. The yellow totally covered the red, again I was in shock! You couldn't see any residue or evidence on my face of having applied anything yet the redness was gone, POOF, disappeared...at least on the side that I had applied the yellow. On the other side, where I used the more flesh colored one it didn't really do much. It covered the redness a bit but it didn't make it go away the way the yellow did and I felt like it gave me a weird coloring.
If you are on the hunt for a great concealer try this product out! Not only does it work wonderfully but its great for sensitive skin. I've worn it 5 times already and it has not irritated my skin at all. I've even slept with it on and it hasn't cause a rash or breakout or anything. So many things cause me to get a rash or skin irritation, to find a product that not only does what it says it does but that is gentle enough for sensitive skin? Definite SCORE in my book!
Be sure to check out BeautyFix for more great products and be sure to sign up so that you too can review some great new items!
Check out my video for visual proof of what this great product does and then run and get your own at www.glow.com. It might seem a bit pricey but you're getting THREE great concealers in one cute little compact. I've spent $16 on one alone that did nothing but cause frustration and a strange texture on top of my purple peepers.
Size: 0.32 oz.
Overall rating: 5 out of 5
Great for sensitive skin.
A little goes a long way!
Want some NYX Freebies?
Of course these day's nothing, or few things are 100% free but if you are a NYX fan but you can't find NYX in your area nows your chance to order and get some free stuff at the same time! You really can't go wrong!
So head on over to the lovely Clumps of Mascara site to get the code to get your goodies! What are you waiting for?
So head on over to the lovely Clumps of Mascara site to get the code to get your goodies! What are you waiting for?
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Make Up Acronyms
I remember when I first started watching YouTube videos and reading the description boxes and felt like it was a foreign language. I've been on many different types of internet forums/groups/message boards etc. and each topic (wedding planning, marriage, weight loss etc.) always has its own lingo and set of acronyms and the same set of letters can mean COMPLETELY different things depending upon the board and topic.
Example, when I was planning my wedding I was on theknot.com, on those boards BM meant Bridesmaid or Best Man, STD meant Save the Date (talk about confusing!), BF meant either Boy Friend or Best Friend, MOH was Maid of Honor, FG was Flower Girl and FI meant Fiance'. There were MANY more but those are the ones that I remember at the monent.
After getting married I gravitated over to thenest.com where BM took on a completely new meaning since there were new moms on the newlywed boards. Suddenly BM meant Breast Milk or well, you know (___ movement), BF now meant Breast Feeding and there were new ones too SAHM - stay at home mom, WAHM - work at home mom, SAHW - stay at home wife, gtg - get together and so many others.
Eventually I left that whole site/"scene" all together and moved on to weighloss where there were terms like FF - Fat Free and LF - Low Fat, WW - Weight Watchers, SBD - South Beach Diet NOT to be mistaken with Silent but Deadly. NI - Nutritional Info, TOM - time of the month which affects weight loss/gain, and the list goes on and on and on.
Now my latest obsession is MakeUp and sure enough there is yet another language to learn. So in case you're still kinda new or simply confused like I was, and occasionally still am, and don't want to ask anyone I'll share what I know here and please, if you know of any more acronyms or additional meanings for the ones I list just let me know in the comments and I'll add them!
Makeup LINGO
CCO/CCS = Cosmetics Company Outlet or Cosmetics Company Store
e/l = eyeliner
e/s = eyeshadow
EOTD= Eye of the Day (this one and the one below took me a while to decipher)
FOTD = Face of the Day (still not 100% sure on this one really)
l/g = lipgloss
l/l = lipliner
l/s = lipstick
MSF = Mineralized Skin Finish (OMG this one took forever to figure out)
MUA or MA = MakeUp Artist or MakeUpAlley.com
*MU = MakeUp
PP= Paint Pot
UD = Urban Decay
UDPP = Urban Decay Primer Potion
Lippies = Any type of lip product
Piggies = Pigments
Haul = Basically a shopping spree or your purchase
*Lemming a product = Wanting a product that everyone is is getting because its a trend
*HG = Holy grail product
*Review vs overview = An overview is basically "this is what i have..." so people can ask for reviews. A review is "this is the details of this color, product ect. how well it works, price ect."
*Mixing Medium= A liquid used to make shadows wet to help them go on better or with a different consistency. (Mac makes one, Kryolan makes one, you can use eyedrops or make your own)
*Foil = How to apply shadow or pigment wet to get a different effect
*CS = Customer service or Coastal Scents
*CC = Coupon Code
*Tut = tutorial
*Pigment Pressing = adding alcohol or other binding medium to turn a loose pitment into a pressed shadow
YT = You Tube
*HTH = Hope This Helps (Hope that helped)
*IMO = In my opinion
*IMHO = In my honest opinion
*Thanks to my fellow beauty bloggers/YTers/commenters for adding these
Example, when I was planning my wedding I was on theknot.com, on those boards BM meant Bridesmaid or Best Man, STD meant Save the Date (talk about confusing!), BF meant either Boy Friend or Best Friend, MOH was Maid of Honor, FG was Flower Girl and FI meant Fiance'. There were MANY more but those are the ones that I remember at the monent.
After getting married I gravitated over to thenest.com where BM took on a completely new meaning since there were new moms on the newlywed boards. Suddenly BM meant Breast Milk or well, you know (___ movement), BF now meant Breast Feeding and there were new ones too SAHM - stay at home mom, WAHM - work at home mom, SAHW - stay at home wife, gtg - get together and so many others.
Eventually I left that whole site/"scene" all together and moved on to weighloss where there were terms like FF - Fat Free and LF - Low Fat, WW - Weight Watchers, SBD - South Beach Diet NOT to be mistaken with Silent but Deadly. NI - Nutritional Info, TOM - time of the month which affects weight loss/gain, and the list goes on and on and on.
Now my latest obsession is MakeUp and sure enough there is yet another language to learn. So in case you're still kinda new or simply confused like I was, and occasionally still am, and don't want to ask anyone I'll share what I know here and please, if you know of any more acronyms or additional meanings for the ones I list just let me know in the comments and I'll add them!
Makeup LINGO
CCO/CCS = Cosmetics Company Outlet or Cosmetics Company Store
e/l = eyeliner
e/s = eyeshadow
EOTD= Eye of the Day (this one and the one below took me a while to decipher)
FOTD = Face of the Day (still not 100% sure on this one really)
l/g = lipgloss
l/l = lipliner
l/s = lipstick
MSF = Mineralized Skin Finish (OMG this one took forever to figure out)
MUA or MA = MakeUp Artist or MakeUpAlley.com
*MU = MakeUp
PP= Paint Pot
UD = Urban Decay
UDPP = Urban Decay Primer Potion
Lippies = Any type of lip product
Piggies = Pigments
Haul = Basically a shopping spree or your purchase
*Lemming a product = Wanting a product that everyone is is getting because its a trend
*HG = Holy grail product
*Review vs overview = An overview is basically "this is what i have..." so people can ask for reviews. A review is "this is the details of this color, product ect. how well it works, price ect."
*Mixing Medium= A liquid used to make shadows wet to help them go on better or with a different consistency. (Mac makes one, Kryolan makes one, you can use eyedrops or make your own)
*Foil = How to apply shadow or pigment wet to get a different effect
*CS = Customer service or Coastal Scents
*CC = Coupon Code
*Tut = tutorial
*Pigment Pressing = adding alcohol or other binding medium to turn a loose pitment into a pressed shadow
YT = You Tube
*HTH = Hope This Helps (Hope that helped)
*IMO = In my opinion
*IMHO = In my honest opinion
*Thanks to my fellow beauty bloggers/YTers/commenters for adding these
Friday, January 9, 2009
BeautyFix Contest Winner!
Thanks to everyone who entered the BeautyFix contest! Congratulations to Charlee from Kansas! Thanks for entering, hope you enjoy your goodies!
Upcoming reviews and looks
Just a little "teaser" if you will, on what I have planned for the blog as well as my YouTube Channel. This isn't everything but just a few things that I could think of right now.
Reviews:
Mascara - my never ending quest for the perfect mascara for ME. I'll be sharing my daily escapades aka the "Lash Off," with the Lash Stash, Cover Girl Lash Blast, the new HIP mascara, L'Oreal Double Extend Tubes (I think that is the name).
Concealer - Sometimes I think I'm just not meant to wear it. Will be telling you about my adventures with The Balm, Urban Decay, Neutragena 3 in 1 and anything else I decide to try.
Eye Liners - liquid and pencil - Really some of my favorite items to wear and try. Brands include Urban Decay.
Lip Stick, lip liner and gloss - Products from Kat Von D, Urban Decay, Nars, Mac and other random favorites.
All the BeautyFix goodies
Hauls:
Various hauls that make my wallet cry even more. I usually make a haul video for my YT channel but I will at least post a link here if not pictures and details.
Looks:
Requested; Flamenco, different lip combos, a look using Shroom, Lotusland and Purple Haze, and a few other miscellaneous looks that I either find and try to recreate or come up with on my own :)
Reviews:
Mascara - my never ending quest for the perfect mascara for ME. I'll be sharing my daily escapades aka the "Lash Off," with the Lash Stash, Cover Girl Lash Blast, the new HIP mascara, L'Oreal Double Extend Tubes (I think that is the name).
Concealer - Sometimes I think I'm just not meant to wear it. Will be telling you about my adventures with The Balm, Urban Decay, Neutragena 3 in 1 and anything else I decide to try.
Eye Liners - liquid and pencil - Really some of my favorite items to wear and try. Brands include Urban Decay.
Lip Stick, lip liner and gloss - Products from Kat Von D, Urban Decay, Nars, Mac and other random favorites.
All the BeautyFix goodies
Hauls:
Various hauls that make my wallet cry even more. I usually make a haul video for my YT channel but I will at least post a link here if not pictures and details.
Looks:
Requested; Flamenco, different lip combos, a look using Shroom, Lotusland and Purple Haze, and a few other miscellaneous looks that I either find and try to recreate or come up with on my own :)
Your topic suggestions
Part of entering the BeautyFix contest was to answer a question. The question was, "Suggest a topic for this blog." In looking at all the entries I decided to list the suggestions here and let you know which topics I have chosen to cover at some point in 2009. I am going to copy and past what was entered so I apologize now if some of them don't make sense. (I will NOT be including names)
1. Contest - Not sure if this means that you want to see more contests or something else? I do hope to host more contests over time.
2. Hairbands for GOOD hair days! - I will do my best. I never wear headbands on bad hair days, and if you have seen my YT channel then you know I don't do much with my hair. I might be able to recruit my sister for this one (she is a hairdresser).
3. cosmetic surgery - Sorry but I will not be covering this one. I do totally believe in cosmetic surgery but I haven't had any done and I don't know enough about it to write about it. Cosmetic Surgery is a very touchy and personal subject and is something that you should be discussing with a professional doctor only.
4. Acne regiments - I'll do my best with this one but fortunately I have never had to deal with acne. My breakouts consist of a few teeny black heads or 1-3 pimples a few times a year if that. I have already written about my skincare routine in this post.
5. YOUR FAVORITE RED LIPSTICKS - This is an easy one! I will definitely cover this with pictures and possibly a video.
6. How to figure out what skin tone you are - I will be recruiting one of my sisters for help with this one since they both went to and graduated cosmetology school.
7. one lipstick color for three different looks - This will be fun since I swear that red lipstick goes with EVERYTHING! :)
8. Contest - See #1. It's really hard to understand one word answers that don't contain any other information.
9. the best way to get that flawless skin - I will do my best on this one in terms of what I do in addition to my Skin Care Routine.
10. Home Beauty Remedies - I have only tried a few but can point you to some sites that I have found as well. I am such a product junkie that I always forget about the home remedies that are awesome!
11. Beauty Maintenance BASICS...i.e. your suggestions/recommendations for BASIC makeup/skincare/haircare items - This will be fun.
12. Limecrime Review - I will do this if I can fit it into my budget. I don't have any Lime Crime but have seen other reviews and the colors are AMAZING. I definitely want to try this.
13. beauty girl - I have no idea what this means.
14. How to save money while still pampering yourself - This will be a good challenge.
15. contest time ladies get your pen and paper out - Once again, I have no idea what this means.
16. From What Age Did You Start Falling In Love With MakeUp? - This will be fun! :)
17. Best Skin Products - I will share MY personal favorites, but I don't believe there is a "Best," since everyone's skin is different and we all have different needs.
18. secret beauty tips - Not sure I have any "secret," tips. I pretty much laid it all out there in this post, but if I think of any new ones I'll be sure to post them!
19. BeautyFix giveway TrainCase - Obviously this person wrote this just to type something in the box.
20. Maintenance - I like this one :)
21. Makeup Looks That Bring Out Your Eye Color - I do not consider myself an expert at all, therefore I will do this for brown eyes since I don't have colored contacts and don't really know anyone with light eyes who I can experiment on.
22. Beauty in a Bottle! - No idea what this is supposed to mean other than the lyrics to a song.
23. How to stop the signs of aging even in your 20's - I can definitely share what I have done over the years but a lot of this really depends on your genetics.
24. Homemade beauty products - See #10
25. Make up Brushes 101 - I will share the staples that I think everyone should have based on MY opinions
26. Zeno Zit Zapper & the like-do these things really work? - Never heard of the Zeno Zit Zapper.
27. HELP for ultra-dry skin in winter - I'll do my best but I don't have dry skin.
28. You should talk about fashion! Your unique sense of fashion. Also new things not many people know about! :]] - This will be tough since I don't really follow the latest trends. I wear mainly black and always try to choose classic pieces that I can wear for years and years.
29. 5 favorite moisturizing products you use in the winter - Not sure I even have 5 but I'll share what I do use.
30. foundation options - I don't wear foundation so I can't really write about this one since I know nothing about foundations. Sorry.
31. How do you handle pimples/blemishes when you get them? (Not everyone is blessed w/ wonderful skin like yours 24/7 wink wink) - I don't get them often but I'll share what I do when I do.
32. Nail Polish Designs - I get my nails professionally done and haven't done nail designs since the late 80's. I almost never pain my own nails so nail designs aren't an option for me. I can point you in the direction of some great sites and videos though!
33. Charles Worthington Review - If my sister can get me his products then I will try some out but no promises.
34. new hairstyles for 2009 - I don't think I can do this one since I've had the same hairstyle since I've been like 17. I don't know how to really do my hair and I don't get it cut into a style. I'll see if I can get some help with this one, but again, no promises.
35. What's your favorite beauty book? - I have to work on this since I don't currently own any.
36. Nail Maintenance - I'll definitely cover this in relation to acrylic/overlay nails.
37. how to make your own facial masks/spa days at home with household materials. Organic alternatives for cosmetic purposes. - see #10
38. The Best Eyeshadow,Blush,Foundation,Lipstick,Gloss finds at your local drugstore. - I'll do my best but I don't really use much drugstore makeup
39. Best concealer for under eye circles - I'll tell you as soon as I find it. I've been looking forever!
40. Makeup 101- the basics of applying makeup - Watch my videos on YT.
41. Makeup storage solutions. I have so much makeup- I don't know how to arrange it where it can easily be found - I'm still working on this one myself.
42. mixing high end cosmetics with drugstore finds! - I'll have to ask some friends for this one since I don't have much in terms of drugstore makeup.
43. basics of applying makeup - see #40
Thanks for all the suggestions! If you have any others please leave them in the comments section or email me.
1. Contest - Not sure if this means that you want to see more contests or something else? I do hope to host more contests over time.
2. Hairbands for GOOD hair days! - I will do my best. I never wear headbands on bad hair days, and if you have seen my YT channel then you know I don't do much with my hair. I might be able to recruit my sister for this one (she is a hairdresser).
3. cosmetic surgery - Sorry but I will not be covering this one. I do totally believe in cosmetic surgery but I haven't had any done and I don't know enough about it to write about it. Cosmetic Surgery is a very touchy and personal subject and is something that you should be discussing with a professional doctor only.
4. Acne regiments - I'll do my best with this one but fortunately I have never had to deal with acne. My breakouts consist of a few teeny black heads or 1-3 pimples a few times a year if that. I have already written about my skincare routine in this post.
5. YOUR FAVORITE RED LIPSTICKS - This is an easy one! I will definitely cover this with pictures and possibly a video.
6. How to figure out what skin tone you are - I will be recruiting one of my sisters for help with this one since they both went to and graduated cosmetology school.
7. one lipstick color for three different looks - This will be fun since I swear that red lipstick goes with EVERYTHING! :)
8. Contest - See #1. It's really hard to understand one word answers that don't contain any other information.
9. the best way to get that flawless skin - I will do my best on this one in terms of what I do in addition to my Skin Care Routine.
10. Home Beauty Remedies - I have only tried a few but can point you to some sites that I have found as well. I am such a product junkie that I always forget about the home remedies that are awesome!
11. Beauty Maintenance BASICS...i.e. your suggestions/recommendations for BASIC makeup/skincare/haircare items - This will be fun.
12. Limecrime Review - I will do this if I can fit it into my budget. I don't have any Lime Crime but have seen other reviews and the colors are AMAZING. I definitely want to try this.
13. beauty girl - I have no idea what this means.
14. How to save money while still pampering yourself - This will be a good challenge.
15. contest time ladies get your pen and paper out - Once again, I have no idea what this means.
16. From What Age Did You Start Falling In Love With MakeUp? - This will be fun! :)
17. Best Skin Products - I will share MY personal favorites, but I don't believe there is a "Best," since everyone's skin is different and we all have different needs.
18. secret beauty tips - Not sure I have any "secret," tips. I pretty much laid it all out there in this post, but if I think of any new ones I'll be sure to post them!
19. BeautyFix giveway TrainCase - Obviously this person wrote this just to type something in the box.
20. Maintenance - I like this one :)
21. Makeup Looks That Bring Out Your Eye Color - I do not consider myself an expert at all, therefore I will do this for brown eyes since I don't have colored contacts and don't really know anyone with light eyes who I can experiment on.
22. Beauty in a Bottle! - No idea what this is supposed to mean other than the lyrics to a song.
23. How to stop the signs of aging even in your 20's - I can definitely share what I have done over the years but a lot of this really depends on your genetics.
24. Homemade beauty products - See #10
25. Make up Brushes 101 - I will share the staples that I think everyone should have based on MY opinions
26. Zeno Zit Zapper & the like-do these things really work? - Never heard of the Zeno Zit Zapper.
27. HELP for ultra-dry skin in winter - I'll do my best but I don't have dry skin.
28. You should talk about fashion! Your unique sense of fashion. Also new things not many people know about! :]] - This will be tough since I don't really follow the latest trends. I wear mainly black and always try to choose classic pieces that I can wear for years and years.
29. 5 favorite moisturizing products you use in the winter - Not sure I even have 5 but I'll share what I do use.
30. foundation options - I don't wear foundation so I can't really write about this one since I know nothing about foundations. Sorry.
31. How do you handle pimples/blemishes when you get them? (Not everyone is blessed w/ wonderful skin like yours 24/7 wink wink) - I don't get them often but I'll share what I do when I do.
32. Nail Polish Designs - I get my nails professionally done and haven't done nail designs since the late 80's. I almost never pain my own nails so nail designs aren't an option for me. I can point you in the direction of some great sites and videos though!
33. Charles Worthington Review - If my sister can get me his products then I will try some out but no promises.
34. new hairstyles for 2009 - I don't think I can do this one since I've had the same hairstyle since I've been like 17. I don't know how to really do my hair and I don't get it cut into a style. I'll see if I can get some help with this one, but again, no promises.
35. What's your favorite beauty book? - I have to work on this since I don't currently own any.
36. Nail Maintenance - I'll definitely cover this in relation to acrylic/overlay nails.
37. how to make your own facial masks/spa days at home with household materials. Organic alternatives for cosmetic purposes. - see #10
38. The Best Eyeshadow,Blush,Foundation,Lipstick,Gloss finds at your local drugstore. - I'll do my best but I don't really use much drugstore makeup
39. Best concealer for under eye circles - I'll tell you as soon as I find it. I've been looking forever!
40. Makeup 101- the basics of applying makeup - Watch my videos on YT.
41. Makeup storage solutions. I have so much makeup- I don't know how to arrange it where it can easily be found - I'm still working on this one myself.
42. mixing high end cosmetics with drugstore finds! - I'll have to ask some friends for this one since I don't have much in terms of drugstore makeup.
43. basics of applying makeup - see #40
Thanks for all the suggestions! If you have any others please leave them in the comments section or email me.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
100 Subscriber Contest Winners Announced!
As usual I'm a little behind with updating. I had originally intended to announce my contest winners before Christmas but as usual life gets in the way of my plans and usually comes first.
crissy0009
makupluver108
rubaiyaahmad (unfortunately this video was made private by the user after I announced the winners)
After much deliberation I finally chose 6 winners from my contest. Click here to see the video.
Thank you to everyone who entered! You all did an awesome job and made it really hard to pick winners.
The winners: (listed by entry date)
Spell Prizes:
kieunga24
2Cute4u2003
Prizes from me:
Scotlass99
Vargfemme
Bumpits Prizes:
WhatsCoknGoodLookn
MissCasseyCakes
The 1st 10 entries who won the Peek-A-Boob Strips just for entering:
1. MakeUpPrince
2. TarotLadyLissa
3. gamergirl2010
4. lilmzann
5. love4allthings
6. jennirawks90
7. Scotlass99
8. kieunga24
9. Vargfemme
10. RoxyEyez
Spell Prizes:
kieunga24
2Cute4u2003
Prizes from me:
Scotlass99
Vargfemme
Bumpits Prizes:
WhatsCoknGoodLookn
MissCasseyCakes
The 1st 10 entries who won the Peek-A-Boob Strips just for entering:
1. MakeUpPrince
2. TarotLadyLissa
3. gamergirl2010
4. lilmzann
5. love4allthings
6. jennirawks90
7. Scotlass99
8. kieunga24
9. Vargfemme
10. RoxyEyez
Check out all the entries if you haven't already
g03852003crissy0009
makupluver108
rubaiyaahmad (unfortunately this video was made private by the user after I announced the winners)
A special thanks to my amazing sponsors! Be sure to check them out if you haven't already!!
Be sure to check out
www.spellcosmetics.com
www.peekaboobstrips.com
www.bighappiehair.com
Be sure to check out
www.spellcosmetics.com
www.peekaboobstrips.com
www.bighappiehair.com
MAC Friends & Family Sale: 25% off!!!
OMG can you believe it? MAC is having a Friends and Family sale, 25% off your entire purchase!
Enter code MACFF9 at checkout for 25% off your order.
Valid January 6-8, 2009. Let me know what you end up getting!
Enter code MACFF9 at checkout for 25% off your order.
Valid January 6-8, 2009. Let me know what you end up getting!
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