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oh, just some beauty favorites…

Totally inspired to do a favorites post.  No other reason!

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Tarte Amazonian Clay shimmering powder in Champagne-this product was gifted to me and I honestly don’t think they make it in the shimmery quilted packaging that I have.  This is a beautifully buttery highlight with the right amount of shimmer.  It can be built up but looks beautiful wherever it’s applied.  (more…)

Instaglam with Rodial-Banana Powder, Contour Powder, and Liquid Liner

*I received these products for review*

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My face.  I always think it ‘needs work.’  Don’t get me wrong, I do indulge in Instagram filters and love the Snapchat filters, but walking around everyday? Can’t use those digital ‘enhancements.’  In addition to great skincare (which I really need to get around to posting about since SO MUCH has changed), I make use of colour correction.  These new products from Rodial have really upped my ‘flawless, filter-esque’ appearance.

Instaglam Compact Deluxe Banana powder (more…)

Looking for brighter skin? Reveal your bright with L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Influenster VoxBox

I received these products through Influenster VoxBox.

I truly and honestly have mixed feelings about L’Oreal Paris.  Some products I like, some products I do NOT like and lately, their high price point is a big-turn off.  I was surprised to receive this box and wanted to give these products a thorough run through (been using for 2 weeks) and give you an HONEST review.

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From the campaign: (more…)

Over 40 foundation- Covergirl + Olay Simply Ageless Primer & Foundation

*I received these products for review*

I actually had written some great stuff here earlier about how I used to be in a serious relationship with tanning beds (we broke up in 2008), and that every since then I’ve been taking care of my skin (pat on the back).  Unfortunately, my computer crashed and now I’m sitting here, trying to pick up the pieces.  While it’s a first world problem to have lost that great literary genius, I know I won’t be winning any literary prizes for my posts.  Sad, but true.  So here goes part deux:

Well now I’m in my 40’s, so I’m also battling a slowing metabolism, weight gain, and hormone issues.  I won’t let up on the skin care though-and since I can’t feasibly erase every last one of my sunspots or hyper-pigmentation instantly, I rely on foundation(s) to assist me while I take the time to repair my skin.

So I thought I would start a new ‘series’ about what foundations I use.  I really honestly do use a large ‘spectrum’ of products-all the way from drugstore to high end, with some Asian beauty products too.  I’m going to break down what I’m using over several blog posts. I’m going to start with a drugstore combo that’s doing a lot better than I expected.

My skin type is combination with an extra-oily T-zone.  I’m a midday blotter no matter what I use (I should tell you all about my blotting papers!  Maybe something else I can write about?)

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This primer claims to hydrate and smooth skin for an ageless canvas. Honestly I am not looking for the hydration part, but it definitely does smooth and I appreciate that.  I like this primer because it’s not overly silicone-ish (I can not stand the clear silicone primers like Smashbox photofinish-no way).  This primer hasn’t broken me out and spreads easily across my face.  It doesn’t ‘dry’ but it doesn’t sit on top of my face.  It’s not uncomfortable to wear.

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COVERGIRL + Olay 3 in 1 liquid foundation claims to instantly reduces the look of wrinkles, evens skin tones and delivers firming hydration with the Simply Ageless 3-in-1 foundation. Woo that’s a lot of claims. This foundation covers well (especially when used with the Ageless primer), and does even out my skin tone.  I do find it hydrating (which I don’t need), but on a hot day, I’ve got to stay indoors or have extra blotting papers on hand as it really does tend to ‘melt’ a.k.a. it doesn’t hold up in the heat.  I find setting this foundation with a translucent powder helps a lot. I top it off with a setting spray.

Overall, these are a great duo and I will recommend them for people with normal to dry skin.  They are hydrating and do even and smooth quite well.  Neither of them contain any sunscreen-that’s neither here nor there to me since my moisturizer almost always contains SPF.  Plus they are wallet friendly-these retail for $16.97 CAD and can be found at most mass retailers.

Stay tuned for my next Foundation over 40 post!  Is there any particular foundation you’re interested in seeing me try?  Let me know.

Finally tried it! Avon Mega-effects mascara

I’ve been meaning to try this ‘device’ for over a year now.  I finally pulled the trigger when I discovered I have an Avon representative (literally) right around the corner.

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From the website:

This breakthrough mascara provides 24-hour volume, leaving lashes darker, denser and more dramatic. Get ready for a corner to corner lash transformation with our first ever Wonderbrush.

The Wonderbrush bends and adjusts to multiple angles capturing every lash, top to bottom. The unique brush fits the natural shape of lashes, coating them evenly with formula from root to tip. 0° gives you quick application and volume, adjust to 40° to apply to upper and lower lashes, and 90° gives you full application from root to tip. The brush design allows for full access to every lash, delivering 40% more mascara than average brushes. Mega Volume and Mega lashes have never been easier!

BENEFITS

• 40% more mascara delivery for MEGA volume
• Specially designed brush gives full access to every lash
• Easy to apply
• Eyes look bigger
• Lashes look darker, denser, and more dramatic
• Provides all day, 24-hour volume
• Lashes will look phenomenal from dusk till dawn
• Sweat-proof and non-flaking
• Clump-proof
• Hypoallergenic
TO USE
Grip the product at sides and remove red cap
• Rock brush from side to side and remove
• Bend brush to desired degree, apply from root to tip
• Apply multiple coats to make your perfect look
• Make sure applicator is locked back in place

My experience with this mascara is positive.  The formula is wet, which isn’t my first choice but the volume and length I get from it is impressive.  Overall, if you are looking for length and volume, give this a try. It’s definitely different and the wand/brush takes some getting used to. Another tip would be to wait in between applying coats-and I wouldn’t apply more than 3 coats as the mascara does start to weigh lashes down.  My only hang up about this product is that it takes time to apply-so if you’re running late or a chronic ‘scrambler’, I’d skip this for sure.

Have you tried this or am I the last person on the planet to use it?

Cleaning up with Olay!

*Disclosure: I am a #BeautyUnited blogger. As part of my affiliation with this group I receive products and special access to P&G events. The opinions on this blog are my own.

I’ve been enjoying summer sans several hurdles (illness being a major hurdle over the past month).  One thing that I have been doing is spending weekends at the family cottage several hours north in ‘cottage country’ -a term that I learned (by living in Canada) could be anywhere there are cottages.  It’s a beautiful serene place, right on a lake.  It’s rustic. I gave up being rustic (for the most part) in 2001 after my honorable discharge from the U.S. Army.  However, I’ll compromise for the cottage….there’s a toilet, running water, and electricity.  Still haven’t ventured into the shower there yet (probably never will). For that reason, when I get back-first order of business, take a thorough shower and CLEAN MY FACE & BODY.  I’d like to walk you through some of the products I use to do this.  Let me know in the comments below if you’ve tried any of these products and if you like them or not!
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Olay Regenerist Advanced Anti-aging micro sculpting cream with sunscreen:  This anti-aging moisturizer hydrates to regnerate volume and shape across the skin’s surface.  It’s supposed to improve skin’s texture in 4 weeks and visibly reduces the appearance of wrinkles quickly with an Amino-Peptide Complex.  This product also contains Broad Spectrum SPF 30.

My thoughts:

While I can’t say I have noticed a significant decrease in wrinkles (and I’d love to think I don’t have any significant ones), I do notice an improved skin texture.  It’s also notable that I don’t see any increase in the amount of sun damage I have on my face either!

Olay Total Effects 7 in one Anti-Aging Moisturizer with sunscreen:  This is a daily moisturizer that revives skin and helps protects against harmful UVA/UVB rays. Formulated with Its VitaNiacin Complex and skin conditioners, it fights 7 signs of aging for younger, healthier-looking skin. Its vitamin-rich formula helps reduce the look of age spots, instantly minimize the appearance of pores, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

My thoughts:

I don’t use this product in combination with the sculpting cream but do alternate using the two.  I like this product more for reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and minimizing pores.  The sunscreen is an added bonus. I also like the consistency of this-it’s not runny and it’s not thick.

Olay Deeply Clean Mineral Face Cleanser: This daily facial cleanser lathers and cleanses without over-drying skin. Specially designed for oily/combination skin types, its natural kaolin clay formula controls shine and reduces the appearance of pores in just one use. Infused with a mineral complex, it draws out impurities like a magnet for a deep, down-to-the-pores clean. Dermatologically tested, oil-free, and noncomedogenic, this cleanser has the purifying power of a mask to leave skin looking healthy and brighter.

My thoughts:

I cannot get enough of this product.  I love it as it reminds me of my charcoal cleanser from the Face Shop.  I actually prefer this product as the Face Shop’s version dried my skin out! I have to agree with everything that is said-especially with the combination skin part (I don’t recommend for dry skin).  I have combination skin and this is probably the best part of my nighttime skin care routine.  This gets EVERYTHING off and leaves me nice and clean.  I can skip astringent because I use this – which is not something I can say often.  This is my ‘rockstar’ product out of these for sure.

Olay Fresh Outlast CoolingWhite Strawberry & Mint bodywash: This is designed to work with your skin’s natural pH. This lower sulfate formula has 3x more mild cleansers than before. It’s a fresh twist on cleansing. Aromas of white strawberry & mint leave you feeling refreshed and beautiful.

My thoughts:

This needs to be a cocktail….I’m thinking an on-the-rocks type of gin or vodka?  Or maybe an upscale daiquiri?  Either way, this is a great bodywash to use to feel clean and smell great!  Apparently over time, it’s supposed to provide vibrant, fresh, skin.  I’ll keep you posted.

My most recent trip to the Missha store….

I suppose I could call this post ‘I just went in for cotton pads’  because that’s usually what I intend on doing.  I always sit in the parking lot and say to myself, “You just need the cotton pads, you JUST NEED the cotton pads.”  But as I found out after posting on instagram, it almost never works out that way, a.k.a. many of you reading this CAN relate when it comes to beauty purchases.  So let’s get to it.

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Things I’m craving lately-you’ll want to read this…..or maybe you won’t!

Disclaimer-I have not purchased any of these items.  YET.  This disclaimer is important.  Read on.

I have been finding myself window shopping on the internet lately.  I open my computer and then before I know it, I have 10 extra tabs open because I just read or learned about this or that and of course I ‘need’ it.  Enter my other half…..he has always says that I just ‘buy things to buy them.’  So I’ve been challenging myself NOT to do that (and for those of you that watch me on YouTube, you’ll notice I have not been on lately. Blame him).  But in the spirit of a true shopper, I’ve decided to list a few items that I’m interested in….and some people I’ve been watching (*cough* obsessed with).  Check it out below and let me know if you like what I’m doing here.  Links are included for every item I MAY purchase so if you are interested, you’re welcome!

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SUMMER SIZZLE- Skin Essentials to keep your skin in check this summer!

*This is a Beauty United Post*

I’ve been serious about skincare for several years now….and as I age, it’s even more important to me.   Check out these great products from Olay, Pantene, Venus, and Secret to help keep your skin protected this summer while you have fun in the sun.  Stay tuned for my reviews on some of these products!!  Let me know if you’ve tried any of these in the comments below!

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