Three Beauty Products I'd Like To Try: Then & Now (11 Years Later!)

For the "Now" category, I picked items that matched the category of items I wanted 11 years ago:  Face, Lips and Skincare. None of the brands from 11 years ago are Cruelty Free (not sure if they ever were).  The items for 2020 are all cruelty free.

I picked IT Cosmetics Oil-Free Matte CC+ Cream for traveling.  I hate the feel of putting sunscreen on my face, under my foundation.  This is an all-in-one solution.  Plus it's matte which works well for me in warmer and humid climates.  

I saw Emily Noel (YouTube) demonstrating e.l.f.'s Sheer Slick Lipstick in Black Cherry.  As she said -- it's pretty much a dupe for Clinique's Almost Lipstick in Black Honey.  Not only is the e.l.f. version much more inexpensive; but, e.l.f.'s version is cruelty-free.  Clinique's isn't cruelty free.  

For Edible Beauty's cleansing milk -- not only do I love the packaging, but the description sounds scrumptious: 

This soothing, milky emulsion feels like a breath of fresh air on the skin. Coconut oil gently washes away makeup, surface impurities, and acne-causing bacteria, while balancing moisture levels. Salicylic acid unclogs pores and addresses acne-prone skin. Apple and strawberry extracts reduce the look of discoloration for a more radiant, even-toned complexion. Australian Wattle Seed supports skin elasticity and firmness. Melon and the essential oils of orange and lime infuse the cleanser with an uplifting and refreshing aroma.

Ta-Ta-For-Now!

This is my friend's cat, Billy.  He's Luna's brother!

February 2020 Favorites - Beauty And Bath

February was mostly about finding makeup that would go with my tan.  The great thing about being a makeup enthusiast is that I had a lot of things that I wasn't using before The Great Bora Bora Sunburn of 2020.  LOL

1.   e.l.f. Hydrating Coconut Mist: 
I found this quite refreshing while traveling.  It actually did feel hydrating on my face, which was parched from the sun.

2.   Kat Von D Lock It Foundation in Deep 66 C - deep nutmeg with cool undertone:
The foundation mini that I had to darken my usual shade of foundation was not dark enough.  I was amazed!  I got a foundation that was a hair too dark for me and did my usual "mixology".  Also be aware that this foundation can oxydize so one that seems slightly too light would be perfect.

3.   Eve Pearl Dual Salmon Concealer and Treatment -- Med/Tan:
There are two shades in the compact.  I started by mixing both together.  Now I just use the lighter shade.  This concealer blends very nicely with a brush.

4.   e.l.f. BEAUTIFULLY BARE SMOOTH MATTE EYESHADOW -- Nude Linen, Soft Beige, Blushing Rose, Brown Cashmere:
I bought this during an e.l.f. sale.  I've had Nude Linen before and liked it for a primer.  These have just the slightest dewy effect which I thought was nice and went well with my tan. Super tan and matte doesn't seem to look good.

5.   e.l.f. BRONZER -- Sunkissed:
I cannot sing the praises of this bronzer enough!  It works as a bronzer and a non-matte powder.  I really love this!

6.   Black Moon Cosmetics Moonlighter -- Shroom:
I've had this for, at least, a couple of years, if not longer.  On tan skin, Shroom is BEAUTIFUL!!!  It imparts a gold reflect.  So pretty!

7.   Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed -- Opal:
I've also had this for a while.  This does not go too well when I'm not tan.  With tan skin, however, it is gorgeous!

8.   Moschino + Sephora Bear Bronzer/Highlighter:
I've had this for a couple of years.  It was a Christmas gift along with the Teddy Bear Palette and Teddy Bear perfume.  ANYWAY - - the Bronzer/Highlighter is great on tanned skin. It can be used on my normal skin-tone as well -- just does not stand out very much.

9.   Nyx Ombre Blush -- Code Breaker:
This blush is also a couple of years old.  It's very bright; and, looks very complimentary on really tanned skin.  This also looks lovely on my usual skin-tone.  I just have to be more careful when dipping my brush into the compact.  LOL  (Tip:  I use a stipple brush to apply powder as well as creme/liquid blush.  That way I feel like I don't end up picking up too much blush and creating a streaky look.)

10.  e.l.f. RADIANT GEL LIP STAIN -- Dewey Berry, Dewey Nude, Rouge Radiance, Red Orange Wash:
These are lip stains.  I felt like I needed something that imparted a more natural look rather than my usual matte liquid lipstick.  They don't last particularly long, would be my caveat -- but, I thought these looked particularly good with the cream eyeshadows.

11.  Les Exclusifs de CHANEL - Eau de Parfum -- Misia:
Per Chanel:

Named for the art patron Misia Sert, Gabrielle Chanels confidante. Evoking the air of a theater backstage, this exquisite scent features a feminine blend of May Rose and Violet, intertwined with a hint of leather. A truly inspired and distinctive creation. An exquisite scent from the LES EXCLUSIFS DE CHANEL collection.

I want to say I've had this for three years.  I love a good violet perfume! The note I haven't been able to put my finger on but makes total sense after I pasted the above description is that hint of leather!  This kind of reminds me of Violet Pastilles in those old fashioned tins/

12.  Prada Candy Sugar Pop - Eau De Parfum:
Per Sephora:

Prada Candy Sugar Pop takes the addictive energy of the Prada Candy family and dips it into smooth, sparkling green citrus. More crisp than sweet, Prada Candy Sugar Pop is soaked in irony. Delicate notes of peach and vanilla mingle with shiny apple and top notes of vert de bergamote and green citrus, comprising an unexpected scent story. A sweet first impression cut with an ironic twist, Prada Candy Sugar Pop leaves the room on a high note.

Prada Candy Sugar Pop has a lightness and freshness to it that works well for warmer weather (good for those tropical vacations).  A really nice bright daytime fragrance that's not too sweet.

13.  APIEU Madecassoside Cream (Amazon Purchase):
From SokoGlam:
This cream is formulated with 40% Centella asiatica leaf water and 0.1% madecassoside to soothe irritated skin and help repair skin damage. Niacinamide also brightens skin while witch hazel extract and panthenol keep skin hydrated and soft. Added to this list are adenosine and lactic acid to smooth and plump skin, making this the perfect nourishing treatment for tired, damaged skin.

I bought this in October or November of 2019.  I read such good things about this that I got one for my friend for one of her stocking stuffers.  When I came back from Bora Bora, sunburned, my skin drank this up.  I wore this under my makeup and my makeup did NOT budge.  Now that my skin has calmed down, I've been saving this for after I use up a primer serum that I've had for quite a while.

14.  Kat Von D Crush On Blush Kitten Mini Blush and Highlighter:
I got this not long after it came out.  I'm not so much enamored with the highlighter portion.  (I've discovered that I prefer to use the highlighter on my eyelid rather than my cheeks.)  The blush looks intimidating with it's darker terracotta pot color;but, it can be worn on lighter skin as well as tan skin.  It's a very pretty neutral color.  (Tip:  I use a stipple brush to apply powder as well as creme/liquid blush.  That way I feel like I don't end up picking up too much blush and creating a streaky look.)

Ta-Ta-For-Now!

Miss Puppy Face -- Sophie Loaf

December 2019 Favorites - Beauty And Bath

Some new favorites, some old favorites and some repurchased favorites.

Enjoy my end of the year picks!

1.   Jeffree Star Cosmetics Velour Liquid Lipstick in Designer Blood:
Jeffree Star Cosmetics describes Designer Blood as a "dark rusty red".  This color is very flattering on me and looks so dramatic, (in a good way), with my red shadow look.

2.   e.l.f  Modern Metals Liquid Matte Lipstick:.
This lipstick is from the Modern Metals collection.  I saw it on YouTuber Zabrena's channel.  It confused me, at first. The name Modern Metals suggests that the lipstick should be metallic -- but, it did not look at all metallic on Zabrena.  It's a gorgeous non-metallic matte burnt orange color.  The formula is pretty good too!

3.   Black Moon Cosmetics Liquid Lipstick in Sanguis:
I've always had at least one tube of this on hand since not long after Black Moon Cosmetics launched (when all they had were a few lipsticks). It's a beautiful bright cherry red.  I also love the flat-ish applicator., I feel like it helps with more precise application.

4.   Black Moon Cosmetics Liquid Lipstick in Deville:
When this color launched almost a year ago, I HAD to have it.  I just love metallic red lipsticks!!!

5.   Lip Liners -- Mostly Nyx:. 
While liquid lipsticks offer the convenience of not really needing a lip liner, I'm finding that I prefer to use a lip liner to get really precise definition on my upper lip.  I originally bought a bunch of lip liners to go with my KVD Studded Kiss Lipsticks but find myself loving to use lip liners for most lip colors, now.

6.   Lime Crime Venus Palette in Vivid:

This was somewhat of a collection purchase.  However, I do love the colors!  It reminds me a little of the Urban Decay Electric palette (above left)  that was around years ago, except in a more edited version.  The Electric Palette had 10 colors and the Vivid palette has eight colors.  What you don't get in the Vivid palette that was in the Electric palette is a silver, shimmery teal (I'm not someone who loves teal shadow), royal blue and shimmery medium green.  The purple in the Vivid palette (Flutter) seems like both purples in the Electric palette mixed together.  The shimmery green in the Electric Palette is a slightly lighter matte green/chartreuse in the Vivid Palette (Limelight).  The shimmery yellow green in the Electric palette is a yellow with a slight hint of green called Happy Place.  Two colors you get in the Vivid palette that are not in the Electric palette are Lux, which is a yellow-gold.  Personally, I prefer this to silver, which can look harsh on most skin. Then, there is Super Bloom, a shimmery bright orange.  This palette is gorgeous.  To make it more wearable for myself, I mix Starburst (the bright red-orange) with a warm brown eyeshadow -- which is what I do with the Electric palette as well,

7.   Juvia's Place Eyeshadow Palette in The Saharan II:
I've had this palette since late 2017.  It's taken me a while to realize that I really LOVE this palette.  I, of course, love red shadows.  But, I've just started getting enamored with mixing my reds, oranges and warm browns with blues -- especially shimmery blues.  The neutral shimmery light beige in the middle of the top row can also double as a highlighter for fair to medium skin.

8.   Kat Von D Eyeshadow Palette in Shade and Light:
I, personally, think that the matte Shade and Light palette is one of the greatest neutral palettes created.  Not only does it have three sections (cool, neutral and warm); but, the large pans on top can also be used as a matte highlighter, contour and blush (provided your skin is fair to light-medium).  Also you don't have to stick to one section when applying it.  This palette is great for creating a bold rocker-chick smokey eye with that black shadow as a base.

9.   Chanel Les Exclusifs 31 Rue Cambon:
I've had my bottle of 31 Rue Cambon for, at least, five years now.  I'd say, out of all the Les Exclusive fragrances I have, 31 is my favorite.   31 Rue Cambon is comprised, in part, of bergamot, black pepper, patchouli, cistus labdanum and iris. At first whiff, there is a deceptive old fashionedness to 31.  What comes next is the sophistication of this chypre fragrance which also juxtaposes itself with with imagery of a fragrant  mystical moss filled forest.  I wear this in cooler weather and it gets stowed away during the warmer months.

10.  Atelier Cologne Oolong Infiny:
I got this during the Black Friday/Cyber Monday sales.  If I bought a larger bottle of any fragrance, I could get any 1 oz bottle, which retails for $78 with a personalized engraved leather case.  I got Oolong Infiny as my free bottle.  I kind of wish I got this as a larger bottle.  It's a beautiful, light multi-dimentional fragrance.  Atelier cologne classifies Oolong Infiny as a "Clean Musk". Its main notes are an Oolong Tea Accord, bergamot and Gaiac wood.  Like most Atelier Cologne fragrances, Oolong Infiny is considered a unisex fragrance.  When I put this on, I get a hint of floral and a very subtle hint of bitterness which gives it its "clean" impression.  This can be worn day or night and even in warmer weather.

11.  Becca Pressed Shimmering Skin Perfector in Golden Mint:
I absolutely LOVE Becca's pressed highlighters!  They're not crazy shimmery and they're not too subtle. There is never any glitter in the highlighters. (Why do companies put glitter in highlighters?) I feel like Becca is the benchmark for highlighters.  Golden Mint was a limited edition color.  It has an ever so subtle green tint to it that comes off more golden.  I find this to be very flattering with red shadow.

12.  Becca Pressed Shimmering Skin Perfector in Vanilla Quartz:
I got Vanilla Quartz at the same time that I got Golden Mint. It was also a limited edition release. I really LOVE this color.  It gives a bit more of a pop on me than Moonstone (which I also love).

13.  Becca Pressed Shimmering Skin Perfector in Prismatic Amethyst:
I've had Prismatic Amethyst for a few years.  It was originally a limited edition release; but, has since become a permanent item.  Prismatic Amethyst is perfect for pairing with cooler toned makeup or neutral makeup.  It's great for fair to medium skintones.

14.  Colourpop BFF Liquid Liner in Red:
I've wanted to get a Red Liquid Liner for a long time.  When Colourpop had a sale on their site, I decided to try one of them.  I like it!!!

15.  NYX Faux Blacks Eyeliner in Oxblood:

This is actually a repurchase.   I had this a couple of years ago and loved it.  I've not been into black eyeliner, lately, and Oxblood hits the spot for me.  Nyx's line of Faux Blacks are beautiful!  I may even consider some of their green colors.

16.  Physicians Formula Rosé Take The Day Away Cleanser:
This is an oil-free gel cleanser (non foaming).  It contains brightening ingredients like Vitamin C. I use this with my electric face brush when I want something more gentle on my skin.  Plus, I'm digging the smell of roses lately!

17.  The Body Shop Banana Truly Nourishing Shampoo:
Not only do I love the smell of The Body Shop's banana hair line.  I love how gentle and softening it is for my really long fine dry hair.  This shampoo is great during the week when I feel like I need a more gentle shampoo or if I work out a lot during the week. (I have to wash my hair after I work out because I perspire so much.)

18.  The Body Shop Banana Truly Nourishing Hair Mask:
OMG!!!  This stuff is heavenly!!!  I use this in the shower.  I'll shampoo my hair, put this stuff in and put a plastic shower cap over my head for the rest of my shower.  But, if you want an amazing conditioning experience. After you put a shower cap over you head -- take a bubble bath and lounge.  When you rinse your hair, it will feel amazing!!!

19.  One 'n' Only Argan Oil Revitalizing Hydrating Mask with Acacia Collagen:
I bought this about a month or so ago. I use this at least once a week, it's a heavier conditioner than my ApHogee Keratin conditioner and helps keep my hair more manageable. (Got this from Sally Beauty.)

20.  Herstyler Hair Repair Serum:
I got this over a year ago from Amazon based on reviews.  It took a lot of trial and error to figure out the best way for me to use it.  I now have waist long hair that is dry and frizzy, without product in it.  This works best for me when I put it in freshly washed and conditioned hair that's been lightly towel dried.  I've also discovered that it's best to use a little more than I think I need. When my hair dries naturally, it's soft, smooth and easy to run a brush through.  It's even easy to run a brush through, the next day. (I tend to wake up with tangled "cave woman" hair.). Love it!!!

21.  Remington DT7432 Wet or Dry Tame The Mane Electric Detangling Brush:
I think I heard about this about 6 months ago, when trying to search for some help for my hair which gets tangled SUPER easily.  It got really good reviews; and, I saw YouTuber grav3yardgirl review this.  I have to tell you, this really helps!  I will most often use this when I deal with "2nd day" hair or before I wash my hair.

Ta-Ta-For-Now!

My friend's cat, Goblin, enjoying a shopping bag.

November 2019 Favorites - Beauty And Bath

There were a lot of rediscovered favorites in November, as the weather cooled down.  Plus favorites were rediscovered as I perused my vanity and said -- I haven't used this in quite a while.

1.   Milani Baked Blush: Red Vino, Berry Amore, Dolce Pink, Petal Primavera, Corallina, Sunset Passione, Luminoso, Bellissimo Bronze

I've been really into shimmery blushes, lately.  I wanted a bit more variety than my Beauty Bakerie Cotton Candy Champagne Blush Palette provided.  (I do REALLY love the Champagne Blush Palette.)  When I am tan, I feel like I need more of a pop of color.  The blushes really look beautiful on the skin, with the glow and shimmer they provide.

2.   e.l.f. Cosmetics Jelly Pop Watermelon Cleanser

This is essentially the same as their regular "Bounce Back Jelly Cleanser", which I like -- its a cleanser you can either use with water or use with wipes.  This one just happens to smell like Watermelon.

3.   ApHogee Keratin 2 Minute Reconstructor

I love, love, love this conditioner!  It helps to make my long hair more manageable.  For some reason, I always end up straying from this conditioner; and, when I come back, I wonder why I strayed.

4.   SEPHORA COLLECTION MOSCHINO + SEPHORA Bear Eyeshadow Palette

I've had this for two years and I forgot how much I love the warm tones in this palette.  Most of them are fairly unique (although they might not look it).  The texture of the shadows is wonderful too!  Even though this was a limited edition item, I will just use it.  I can still display the teddy bear on my vanity afterwards. 

5.   ApHogee Keratin and Green Tea Restructurizer

This is another hair care item I really love.  It needs to be used with heat.  I think this is why I stray from it at times.  If I get out of heat styling my hair, I don't use this.  But for heat styling, it's amazing!

6.   Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighter in Moonstone

This is a classic.  I feel like Becca established a benchmark for pressed highlighters.  As more and more companies started coming out with myriads of highlighters, it became easy to forget the classic.  I love this, have hit major pan,  and will probably replace it when it's out.

7.   e.l.f. Cosmetics Bronzer in Sunkissed

I've recently found a new "use" for this and I love it all over again.  The reason I initially fell in love with this bronzer is the fact that it's great for people with lighter skin tones that actually want to put a touch of sunshine on their skin.  I started using this as a "Pre-Contour" over the lower half of my cheeks and it it works beautifully.  In love again!

8.   Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter in Apricot Vanilla

For some reason, the weather changing means, my arms and cuticles have been dry -- particularly my cuticles.  I've used Josie Maran's Body Butter to help heal tattoos.  That plus the fact that this is not a salve or balm means that it works great on skin that needs some moisture.

9.   Lucas Pawpaw Ointment

This was another treatment that I used on my ragged cuticles.  I found this in one of our bathroom drawers.  I had forgotten all about it.  Since I knew it had medicinal properties, I decided to try it on my cuticles.  It seemed to really help.  I'm keeping some on hand, from now on. (No pun intended.)

10.  Prada Candy Gloss

Now that the weather has cooled down a bit, I started wearing this again.  This is quite different than original.  According to Sephora, the original is comprised of: White Musks, Benzoin, Caramel Accord.  Candy Gloss is much sweeter (much more like candy) and is comprised of: Cherry, Peach, Musk.  I don't smell the individual fruits; but, I smell a sweet fruity almost cotton candy smell.  It's a very pleasant and sexy fragrance.

11.  Kat Von D Single Shadow in Lolita

I've had this since not long after it debuted.  It's a beautiful "chestnut rose", a very unique shade of eyeshadow that is very complimentary to every day looks as well as edgier looks.

12.  Physicians Formula The Ultimate Murumuru Butter Collection

Once upon a time, the only thing I liked from Physicians Formula was the EYE BOOSTER™ LASH 2-IN-1 BOOSTING EYELINER & SERUM.  I was not fond of anything else I tried from that line.  It was a bunch of stuff in really cute and attractive packaging that fell short in quality for me.  I stopped paying attention to them.  Then, YouTubers I trust, started raving about the Murumuru Butter line, and then they started raving about other collections Physicians Formula had.  Whatever they started doing differently, I hope they keep it up!  Anyway!  I saw this on emilynoel83's YouTube channel.  I was really intrigued!  I ordered it and have since used it about 4 or 5 times and really loved it.  The textures and colors are fabulous.  I will actually be taking this on my trip to San Jose and San Francisco later this week.

Ta-Ta-For-Now

I'm not sure what Luna's face is about.

October 2019 Favorites - Beauty And Bath

1.   Nyx Suede Matte Lipliner in Jakarta:  I've had this since around Christmas time.  I bought a set of mini Nyx liquid lipsticks that came with matching lipliners.  I have a vertical labret piercing and it makes it very difficult to wear a traditional style lipstick w/o lipliner.  But, I love the precise look a lipliner gives to traditional lipstick. Jakarta is a very pretty burnt orange shade.

2.   Nyx Lip Lingerie Push-Up Long-Lasting Lipstick in Exotic:  These come in some of the same colors that the original Lip Lingerie liquid lipstick shades come in.  I think the Push-Up version feels a little more comfortable on the lips and also looks better on.  Exotic is a lovely burnt orange shade.

3.   Covergirl Colorlicious Oh Sugar! Tinted Lip Balm in Punch:  Tinted lipbalms are nice on days when one would prefer a more natural makeup look; or, if one's lips need a little relief from drying lipsticks.

4.   e.l.f. Lip Exfoliator:  I've been using e.l.f.'s Lip Exfoliators on and off  for some years, now.  YouTuber emilynoel83 made me buy it (LOL).  These work great.  I don't have to stick my fingers into a goopy jar.  They are nicely priced and come in several flavors.

5.   Milani Amore Metallics Lip Creme in Raving Matte: I love a magenta-purple lipstick!  This shade is flattering on me when I want something a little more dramatic on the lips.

6.   Milani Luminoso Glow Shimmering Face Palette:  YouTuber emilynoel83 made me buy this too. (LOL). I'm really loving glowy blushes lately.  This palette also has highlighters and glowy bronzers (which can be used to darken the blushes). After a certain age, looking too matte is not flattering.  This palette can be used on the eyes, as well.  Although I would caution that hooded eyes need some matte to give them dimension.

7.   Milani Baked Blush in Luminoso:  This blush came in a bundle with the Luminoso Face Palette and a Luminoso Lip Gloss.  Holy cow!  There is a reason this blush is so popular!  I was worried that it wouldn't show up on me; but, it does!  Luminoso gives the cheeks a beautiful glow!  I would say it gives more of a glow than their other baked blushes.

8.   e.l.f. Jelly Pop Flush Blush in Berry Pop:  This is another beautiful glowy/dewy blush option that won't break the bank. My recommendation with this blush is to put a dot of the blush on the back of your hand, then use a stippling brush to blend it into the cheeks.  I've found that a couple of  small dots is enough for both cheeks.  You can always add more. Hard to take away if you put too much on.

9.   Manny MUA X Makeup Geek Eyeshadow Palette:  I've had this palette since around when it first came out.  YouTuber mirrorsandhaze made me buy this one.  What stands out, in my mind, in this palette, is the shade Mars (which is described as a deep cherry red with a matte finish) and the shade Insomnia (which is described as a warm red brown with blue reflects and a foiled finish).  Those two colors make for quite a dramatic look, which I love.  I forget, however, that the palette has a host of soft colors that are perfect for a natural look or a more "office friendly" look.  A very versatile palette.

10.  Kat Von D Pastel Goth Eyeshadow Palette:  I am in love with the shade Clementine -- which is a soft pastel orange that is slightly sheer.  I wish Kat Von D made a single shadow in Clementine.  It is perfect for blending out warm looks.  I have used the other colors in the palette -- mostly for complementing shadows in other palettes.   For me, it works really well for that.

11.  e.l.f. Superclarify Cleanser:  This cleanser works well.  My only wish is that it was in a container that suited the consistency of the cleanser better -- like a pump bottle.

12.  Nquea.d Mediterranean Fig and Rhubarb Candle:  I've had this candle for a while.  I'm reminded of how much I like it, when I'm in the kitchen.  It smells heavenly!  I don't know if this brand exists anymore.  The candle was on sale when I bought it in April at Papyrus.  If it doesn't exist anymore, that's too bad.  It's a really good candle.

13.  Mane 'n Tail Conditioner (Original):  I stopped using this for a little while because I kept forgetting to get a new bottle from our pantry.  When I finally remembered -- several months later -- I used it and was smitten all over again.  It helps with the manageability of my long, easily tangled hair.

14.  DermOrganic Leave-in Argan Oil Treatment:  Although this can be used in dry hair to help detangle and give hair some shine, I find that this leave-in treatment works best when worked into damp hair.  (It will help stop the frizzies before they start; and, help with detangling hair.)

15.  Diptyque Eau Rose Eau de Toilette:  This is like fresh roses layered with more complex notes in the background.  (Per Diptyque: Pick up the petals of a rose, add its green leaves, its stem, and don’t forget its buds. Immerse in clear water and wait to reveal its rosy delicateness, fruity accents and acidulated green notes... Eau Rose is composed like an infusion of the finest damascena and centifolia roses.)  One can definitely smell the "acidulated green notes" in the background.  Now that it's fall, I feel more comfortable wearing a fragrance like this.

16.  Atelier Cologne Vetiver Fatal Cologne Absolue Pure Perfume:  I love Atelier Cologne's fragrances.  Most are perfect for traveling in warmer weather where fragrances with heavier notes may be too cloying.  (Per Atelier Cologne it's notes are: Bergamot from Calabria, Lemon from Sicily, Heart of Bigaradier from Paraguay, Orange Flower Absolue from Tunisia, Violet Leaves, Black Plum, Heart of Vetiver from Haiti, Cedarwood from Texas, Dark Oud Accord.)  The combination is unisex, with a bitter but refreshing note.  If I were to put an image to it -- I'm reminded of a personal library with luxurious wood shelves that go all the way up to the elevated ceiling.  The kind of library where you need one of those rolling ladders.

Ta-Ta-For-Now!

"What's that over there, Mama?"

REPOST: My Favorite Travel Essentials Pt 1 -- Makeup

So, I was doing the Part 2 blog.  I thought I accidentally published it.  I deleted it; and, realized I deleted Part 1.  Oy vey!  So I am reposting.

Since 2010, I travel, at least, three times a year.  Once a year, we travel to some states we haven't been to (which entails a plane ride, car travel and several hotel rooms).

Let me tell you -- I really HATE packing!  I really do!  Because of this, it has been a never ending quest of mine to make packing easier for myself.  I'm not quite there yet, but getting close.

As seen in the picture, all of the items on this blog fit into my Medium Trish McEvoy Makeup Planner.  When I am not traveling, most of the items (with the exception of some of the items in the clear bag) stay in the planner to minimize time that I have to spend on packing.

Case, Palettes Liner:
Trish McEvoy The Power of Makeup Medium Planner:  I got this planner at least six years ago -- if not more.

Linda Hallberg Infinity Palette:  IMO this is the perfect travel face palette for fair to med-light skin tones.  It has pretty much everything you would need to create a look.  There's even two eyeshadows in there.  There is a warm and a cool blush, a cool contour powder, a face powder (or a nude shadow), two shades of shimmery highlighter, a medium brown (with a little mustard yellow mixed in) eyeshadow and a black eyeshadow.

Kat Von D Anniversary Palette: I originally got this palette in a FOMO moment.  I realized that this palette has a wide variety of colors in it and would be great for travel.

Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Liner in Olive:  I got this from either Hautelook or Nordstrom Rack.  A really nice soft flattering color.

Essence Micro Precise Eyebrow Pencil in Dark Brown:  Essence was having one of those buy one get one 40% off sale at Ulta.   One can never have too many micro brow pencils.

Brushes Left Side (Left to Right):
Wet n Wild Large Concealer Brush:  I use this for applying eye primer.

Wet n Wild Large Eyeshadow Brush:  This is one of my favorite eyeshadow brushes!  I will use it to blend a lighter color into the first crease shade or to put that first crease shade on.

Morphe M164 Small Flat Angled Contour:  I use this for applying contour on my nose and inner brow area.

Morphe M574 Pencil Crease:  I will use this sometimes to blend a darker crease color.  I will also use this for placing shadow under the eye.

Brushes Middle (Top to Bottom):
e.l.f. Travel Blending Brush:  I use this for contour.  

e.l.f. Eyeshadow Brush: Excellent for placing highlight on the inner corner of eye.

e.l.f. Eyeshadow "C" Brush:  I lay down the first shadow color under my eye with this & sweep it in an upward direction.

Morphe Flat Shader Brush:  These brushes are excellent for patting color on the lid of the eye.

e.l.f. Eyelash and Brow Wand:  When rocking a brow pomade a spoolie will help diffuse the pomade on the inner brow and take any areas that have too heavy an application.

e.l.f. Foundation Brush:  I actually use this for concealer.  I don't actually think these types of brushes make good foundation brushes.

Brushes Right Side (Top then Left to Right):
Morphe M431 Precision Pencil Crease:  As the name says, this is a slimmer pencil brush for creating a more defined crease with a darker eyeshadow (this differs greatly from "cut crease").

Kat Von D #70 Pomade Brow Brush:  I decided to try these when they were having a sale.  I already had the powder brow brush, which I thought was really wonderful.  When I tried the pomade brush -- OMG -- I had never used a brow brush that was capable of making an almost razor thin line!  This brush is so worth it!!!

e.l.f. Small Stipple Brush:  I heard about this brush from YouTuber emilynoel83.  She uses this for cream blush or other cream cheek products.  It works excellently for that; but, I also love using it for powder blush.  It cuts down on the chances of applying too much pigment to the cheeks.

Sonia Kashuk Foundation Bush:  This was actually from a set of face brushes, some years ago.  It has a nice, densely packed flat top foundation brush.  I now keep it with my travel items.

e.l.f. Powder Brush:  I love using this as a powder brush.  It's got a good surface area to work with.  I also think a flat top brush is better for simulating that pressing action that you can get with a velour puff, rather than just sweeping the face.

e.l.f. Small Taper Brush: Another recommendation from emilynoel83.  This has GOT to be my favorite cheek highlighter brush!

Makeup Bag (Top then Left to Right):
Covergirl Outlast Active 24HR Foundation 845:  I actually purchased this from Walgreeens while traveling.  It works decently and contains SPF.  I lighten or darken it with e.l.f Mix to Match Shade Adjuster.

L.A Girl Pro Conceal in Peach:  L.A. Girl makes some really nice concealers at a very decent price.  I just wish they'd exchange that tiny brush for a regular squeeze tube tip.  The peach color is really great for disguising dark undereye circles.  They also have a darker orange for richer skin tones.

e.l.f. Mix to Match Shade Adjuster in Lighten & Bronze:  I'm one of those people whose skintone can be on a spectrum from fair to really tan. Traveling means my skintone is never static.  I end up mixing foundation a lot - when I travel it's better to have smaller tubes that I can mix with.  I tried these e.l.f. Shade Adjusters and like them.

Colourpop Ultra Matte Liquid Lipstick in Mama:  I originally bought this as a dupe for Lime Crime's Pumpkin Liquid Lipstick. I'm finding this is one of the colors of lipstick that I love taking with me.

Black Moon Cosmetics Liquid Matte Lipstick in Mortis:  I don't feel right w/o having a red lipstick as an option.  I love Black Moon's formula and Mortis is a little darker than a bright red lipstick.

Kosas Kosasport Hyaluronic Lip Fuel:  Lips can get parched when traveling.  I got this because it has the added benefit of Hyaluronic Acid which can plump skin up with moisture.  I like to put balm on while I'm doing the rest of my makeup; then, I wipe it off before I put my lipstick on.  Before bed is when I can slather this on and sleep with it.

Wet n Wild Photofocus Pressed Powder in Light:  I just love this powder.  It gives a satin finish rather than a straight up matte finish.  

e.l.f. Lip Exfoliator in Coconut:  Why stick your fingers in grainy goop to exfoliate your lips, when you can have it in "lipstick" form and rub it on your lips.  Just rub on your lips for about 10 seconds (or more), wipe off and -- voila!

Black Moon Cosmetics Liquid Matte Lipstick in Gloom:  I like having a nude lipstick option in my arsenal.  Black Moon makes some of my favorite nudes.

Laura Geller French Vanilla Highlight:  I love using this to help set my undereyes. It's a subtle highlighter so it makes the undereye are look more natural.

Kat Von D Super Brow Extreme Long-Wear Pomade:  I love using this with the KVD brush to get a more precise application.  Sometimes I will outline my brows with my micro brow pencil and fill in with pomade afterwards.

Ta-Ta-For-Now!

 It was a Luna kind of Monday.

The Blush Tag

1. Best packaging

Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush Palette Color Wheel (Holiday 2016)

I had never tried Tarte’s Amazonian Clay Blush formula before.  I thought this was a pretty ingenious way to fit more into less packaging.  I use a separate mirror; so, it doesn’t bother me that there is no mirror.

2. Prettiest color

It Cosmetics Ombre Radience in Sugar Plum

This is kind of an odd question for a makeup addict.  "Prettiest Color" is contingent on what makeup it's been worn with, skin tone etc.  

So, I’m calling this the prettiest color based on how it looks in the pan – it’s ombre and has shimmer and is a pretty mauve color..

3. Most pigmented

Coastal Scents Forever Blush

I had heard of these blushes; but, it wasn't until I heard emilynoel83 of YouTube talk about them that I got some.  She was right.  These blushes are PIGMENTED and they last!.  I would say, if you're on a budget and want a blush that you're not going to have to replace very quickly -- this is it!

4. Everyday blush

Cherry Custard by Laura Geller

I don’t have an everyday blush.  But, I thought of what I would reach for if I was in a hurry.  The answer would be Cherry Custard by Laura Geller, which is in the Baked Color and Contour Palette.  The fact that there’s a contour and highlight in the palette makes it very easy to use when I’m in a hurry.

5. Party blush
Makeup Revolution Blush Queen Palette

I'm not sure what a "Party blush" is supposed to be.  Again, it all depends on what I'm doing with the rest of my makeup.  I would probably put something with a touch or shimmer on.  In that spirit, I will say the Makeup Revolution Blush Queen palette which is a palette of eight shimmery blushes.  No matter what I decide to do with my makeup for a party there will be something in there for me.

6. Regret purchasing (Two Answers) 

e.l.f. Blush (A bunch of them)

      YouTubers would rave about these blushes -- how pigmented they are, how beautiful the colors look on the skin.  I bought mine during a sale a few years ago and was severely disappointed.  Mine were so NOT pigmented.  The quad blushes that sell for $6 work just fine; but, the single ones, never work for me.

Cream or Liquid blushes

I like cream and liquid blushes.  However, I have so much makeup that cream and liquid formulas just sit there and go bad.

7. Least used

NARS Exhibit A

This probably doesn't need any explanation.  It looked beautiful in the packaging. There is something about red -- eyeshadow, lipstick, nailpolish that captivates me. It is usable with an ultra light touch.  I think it's the inconvenience of having to be so careful with it that puts me off from using it.

8. Most used

Morphe Brushes 9N Palette

This is easy to grab for.  The blushes are easy to wear -- especially with the bolder eyes and lips of today.  And they are good quality!

8.1 would never let go of.

My two Kat Von D Shade and Light blushes

These were out on the market for a hot minute.  I managed to get my hands on two of them before they disappeared from the market permanently.  I have Piaf/Poe and Bonnie/Clyde.  I wanted Morticia/Gomez; but, alas, it was not to be.  

9. Favorite blush brand
None At The Moment

I don’t know that I have a favorite blush brand at the moment.  I suppose if Kat Von D or even Black Moon Cosmetics were to release some, I would probably be in love with those.

My requirements, now, are:

Cruelty free

Have pigmentation

Have a color I like

Don’t be chalky.

10. Greatest blush discovery of the year
Kat Von D Shade and Light blush

I really liked them and wanted more.  But, like I said, it was not to be.  I was fortunate enough to get my hot hands on two of them.

11. Most practical
Cherry Custard by Laura Geller

(See #4)

12. Least practical

NARS Exhibit A

(See #7)

13. Most expensive

Becca Beach Tint Shimmer Souffle in Guava Moonstone

I think at the time I bought my NARS blushes, they were still around $25.  These are $27.  I love that there's a bit of shimmer in them.

14. Least expensive  (Single blushes)

Nyx HD Blush Amber

 As I don't have my e.l.f blushes anymore, Nyx HD blush at $6.99, is my least expensive.

15. Longest Wearing

Coastal Scents Forever Blush

(See #3)

16. Best Blush Palette

Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush Palette Color Wheel (Holiday 2016)

Not only are these great blushes; but, I love how they fit ten of them into a very compact space by using both sides of the compact.  There are warms, cools and even a highlighter and bronzer shade in here.

Ta Ta For Now!