Archive for category Top 10 Lists
Top 5 Dior Foundations
Posted by Wendy in Top 10 Lists on January 6th, 2010
Hooray! We’ve reached the end! Here’s the final post in my “top 5″ foundation series. The following are the Top 5 Dior Foundations, based on the reviews at Sephora.com and Makeupalley.com:
1= Diorskin Nude Natural Glow Fresh Powder Makeup ($45)
Average Sephora.com Rating = 4.4/5; Average Makeupalley.com Rating = 4.4/5
Product Description from Nordstrom.com: “Discover the beauty of your complexion, Nude. Ultra-lightweight loose powder naturally hydrates. Skin radiates a natural and fresh glow. A unique blend of 100% natural mineral pigments and Dior’s innovative Mineralized Water delivers an energizing cocktail for your complexion. Over time, your skin looks more beautiful, with and without makeup!”
*Fans on Sephora.com loved how evenly this went on, as well as how light it felt on the face. Many reviewers also emphasized how it didn’t feel “chalky” and left a very soft and silky feeling on the skin. The negative reviews were split between those who felt it didn’t provide enough coverage and those who thought it felt heavy and looked “mask”-like.
2= Diorskin Forever Flawless & Moist Extreme Wear Makeup SPF 25 ($44)
Average Sephora.com Rating = 4.5/5; Average Makeupalley.com Rating = 4.1/5
Product Description from Nordstrom.com: “Extreme wear for extreme beauty. This compact foundation with sponge stays flawlessly smooth and looks naturally perfect in every environment. Dior takes smoothing, wear and comfort to the ultimate extreme of beauty.”
*Fans on Sephora.com loved that it is natural-looking and lasts all day. There were a variety of application methods mentioned — some used the sponge that was included, while others preferred using a powder or kabuki brush. Those who left negative reviews often felt that this foundation was too drying.
3= Dior Capture Totale Foundation SPF 15 ($75)
Average Sephora.com Rating = 4.4/5; Average Makeupalley.com Rating = 4.1/5
Product Description from Nordstrom.com: “A unique blend of Capture Totale anti-aging ingredients (Alpha Longoza™ and Centuline™), optical correctors and HD Liquid Crystal Pigments™, this revolutionary serum foundation gives skin radiant ‘high definition’ perfection in every dimension. Thanks to a broader band of multi-toned pigments more subtle, real and natural than the four (red, yellow, white, black) usually used in foundation. Treats all the signs of aging. Boosts collagen, nourishes, replenishes, re-plumps.”
*Positive reviewers loved the dewy and illuminating finish of this foundation. Because this foundation includes Dior’s Capture Totale anti-aging ingredients, many of the reviewers tend to be in the 45-54 or 54+ age category. Those who wrote negative reviews mentioned the narrow color selection and the foundation’s ability to look “masklike” as limiting factors.
4= Diorskin Airflash Spray Makeup ($60)
Average Sephora.com Rating = 4.4/5; Average Makeupalley.com Rating = 4/5
Product Description from Nordstrom.com: “For gorgeous skin, start with Airflash. You’ll look luminous and radiant in seconds and touch-ups are quick and easy for a night out. A quick spray, and you’re on your way! You’ll feel an airy-light, fresh sensation. You’ll see a more even skin texture, fewer fine lines—a softly radiant, airbrush perfection that lasts all day.”
*Sephora reviewers listed a variety of application methods — using a dampened sponge, applying with a stippling brush, and spraying it directly on the face and blending with a foundation brush. Positive reviewers liked how it went on smooth and even and provided a nice amount of coverage. Negative reviewers felt the shade range was limiting and a little to dark, and a few reviewers felt that it tended to slide in to fine lines and wrinkles as the day went on.
5= Diorskin Sculpt Foundation ($53)
Average Sephora.com Rating = 4.4/5; Average Makeupalley.com Rating = 4/5
Product Description from Nordstrom.com: “A revolutionary, line-smoothing, firming makeup that instantly fills in fine lines and wrinkles, boosts skin elasticity and turns up your natural radiance. It’s like a mini face-lift. In nine shades that match skin to perfection.”
*Sephora.com reviewers loved that this foundation went on smoothly and minimized fine lines. However, some reviewers felt that it was a little too heavy.
What are your thoughts? Do you agree with these rankings?
Top 5 Chanel Foundations
Posted by Wendy in Top 10 Lists on December 25th, 2009
…And the foundation countdown continues! After reviewing the feedback on TotalBeauty.com and Makeupalley.com, here are the Top 5 Chanel Foundations. Does your foundation make the list?
1= Teint Innocence Compact Makeup SPF 10 ($56)
Average TotalBeauty.com Rating = 9/10; Average Makeupalley.com Rating = 4.1/5
Product Description from Chanel.com: “Innovative compact foundation offers luxurious glide-on application, delivering greater colour purity for a natural, even, luminous complexion.”
*TotalBeauty.com reviewers loved how sheer this makeup looked while still providing adequate coverage and a luminous finish. Indeed, “luminous” seemed to be the catch-phrase in many reviews. The two greatest negatives were the limited shade selection and the fact that it didn’t necessarily control oiliness throughout the day.
2= Vitalumiere Satin Smoothing Makeup SPF 15 ($54)
Average TotalBeauty.com Rating = 9.1/10; Average Makeupalley.com Rating = 4/5
Product Description from Chanel.com: “Delivers a young, radiant look. Lines, wrinkles and imperfections seem to be erased. Ultra-gliding fluid provides buildable coverage. SPF 15 UV protection; nut extract guards against free radicals.”
*Those TotalBeauty.com reviewers who are fans of Vitalumiere often commented on how easy it is to apply and that it allows for sheer to medium coverage without leaving a heavy “makeup” look. A few of the older reviewers commented that they felt this foundation really helped their mature skin look “dewy” and youthful. The main negative for TotalBeauty reviewers seemed to be the price.
3= Double Perfection Compact – Natural Matte Powder Makeup SPF 10 ($50)
Average TotalBeauty.com Rating = 8.8/10; Average Makeupalley.com Rating = 4.1/5
Product Description from Chanel.com: “The flawless matte finish you want … effortlessly. Superlight, long-lasting wet/dry SPF 10 formula. Soft, smooth texture ensures easy application for a naturally radiant, matte complexion. Light-reflecting pigments minimize the appearance of lines.”
*TotalBeauty reviewers loved how well this lasted throughout the day. A number of oily and combination-skinned reviewers commented that this was the perfect foundation for their tricky skin types. The main deterrents seemed to be price and the fact that this foundation might accentuate dryness and fine lines on drier skin types.
4= Teint Innocence Naturally Luminous Fluid Makeup SPF 12 ($47)
Average TotalBeauty.com Rating = 8.7/10; Average Makeupalley.com Rating = 4/5
Product Description from Chanel.com: “Pure lightness, this new liquid makeup from CHANEL provides dream coverage. A unique formula allows skin’s natural glow to show through while it evens out skin tone and helps to conceal imperfections.”
*As with the Teint Innocence compact, TotalBeauty.com reviewers love how the fluid provides a sheer, natural and luminous finish. A few reviewers commented that they apply the Teint Innocence fluid in the morning, and they use the Teint Innocence compact for touch-ups throughout the day. The only drawbacks seemed to be – again – the price, as well as the bottle packaging (which makes it easy to over-pour).
5= Pro Lumiere Professional Finish Makeup SPF15 ($54)
Average TotaBeauty.com Rating = 8.2/10; Average Makeupalley.com Rating = 3.5/5
Product Description from Chanel.com: “This foundation provides you effortless perfection with professional looking results. This breakthrough oil-free formula imparts an unprecedented semi-matte finish that can be blended for a soft, natural look or built up for greater sophistication.”
*A lot of TotalBeauty.com reviewers loved that this foundation provided great coverage with a satiny finish. It appears that many find this foundation to be the healthy medium between luminous and matte foundations. However, some reviewers commented that this wasn’t the best choice for drier skin types (it might settle into dry patches and fine lines), and others mentioned that this foundation was “heavier” than they would have liked.
Which Chanel foundation have you worn most recently? What do you like the most about it?
Top 5 Bobbi Brown Foundations
Posted by Wendy in Top 10 Lists on December 19th, 2009
How does your favorite Bobbi Brown foundation hold up against this list? Here’s a list of the Top 5 Bobbi Brown Foundations, taking into account the customer reviews on TotalBeauty.com and Makeupalley.com:
1 = BOBBI BROWN SKIN FOUNDATION SPF 15 ($45)
Average TotalBeauty.com Rating: 9.6/10; Average Makeupalley.com Rating: 4/5
Product Description from bobbibrown.com: “A truly modern foundation that offers invisible, weightless coverage that looks like skin, not makeup. This long-wearing formula evens tone, minimizes the appearance of pores, conceals imperfections, and offers broad spectrum UV protection. Its hydrating technology leaves skin feeling cushioned, comfortable, and clean. Ideal for all skin types.”
*Those Makeupalley.com reviewers who posted positive comments often cited how much they love the range of shades available and how it makes your skin look “dewy” and “natural”. Those who posted negative reviews often stated that they felt the coverage was too sheer and didn’t provide enough coverage.
2= BOBBI BROWN SPF 15 TINTED MOISTURIZER ($40)
Average TotalBeauty.com Rating: 9/10; Average Makeupalley.com Rating: 4.1/5
Product Description from bobbibrown.com: “SPF 15 Tinted Moisturizer is the perfect alternative to foundation for a more casual look. Perfect for Normal to Dry skin types. This tint of natural-looking color combined with sun protection blends smoothly over skin, and moisturizes while providing lightweight, comfortable, sheer coverage.”
*Again, Makeupalley.com reviewers often commented positively about the range of shades offered. Many reviewers also noted that they liked that this tinted moisturizer wasn’t “as thick” as others on the market. Those who posted negative reviews often cited the price and the tendency of their face to look “shiny” after a few hours as the main deterrents for not repurchasing.
3= BOBBI BROWN EXTRA SPF 25 MOISTURIZING BALM ($50)
Average TotalBeauty.com Rating: 9.2/10; Average Makeupalley.com Rating: 3.8/5
Product Description from bobbibrown.com: “A lightweight foundation alternative for dry, dehydrated skin, this formula is ultra-rich, and blends easily, giving skin a dewy look with light coverage. SPF 25 helps protect skin against damaging UVA/B rays. Dermatologist tested.”
*The consensus appears to be that this is a very sheer, very moisturizing product that results in a “healthy glow”. Lots of reviewers commented that they like to use this all over the face and then spot conceal with Bobbi Brown’s Stick Concealer. Needless to say, since this is a moisturizing balm, it is not intended for those with oily skin types.
4= BOBBI BROWN SMOOTH SKIN FOUNDATION ($40)
Average TotalBeauty.com Rating: 9.4/10; Average Makeupalley.com Rating: 3.4/5
Product Description from bobbibrown.com: “This formula adjusts to skin’s needs by minimizing oil and shine in oilier areas like the T-zone, while hydrating dry areas as needed. Smooth Skin Foundation provides medium to full coverage. Oil-free formula is designed for normal to combination skin.”
*Makeupalley.com reviewers seem to be divided between those who love the amount of coverage this provides and the fact that doesn’t “disappear” into their pores and those who feel that this foundation is too thick and sets too fast for it to be properly blended.
5= BOBBI BROWN MOISTURE RICH FOUNDATION SPF 15 ($42)
Average TotalBeauty.com Rating: 8.6/10; Average Makeupalley.com Rating: 3.8/5
Product Description from bobbibrown.com: “Bobbi’s popular moisturizing formula provides SPF 15 sun protection while it hydrates skin and delivers a soft, beautiful finish. The formula is buildable, allowing medium to full coverage as desired. For Normal to Dry skin types.”
*As is the case with most of Bobbi Brown’s foundations, Makeupalley.com reviewers love the range of shades. Most of those reviewers with drier skin types liked the amount of coverage it provided and its staying power; however, some didn’t find it moisturizing enough. Those with oily skin types seemed to find that it felt like it was “melting” as the day went on.
Top 5 Laura Mercier Foundations
Posted by Wendy in Top 10 Lists on December 19th, 2009
Laura Mercier’s Tinted Moisturizer is a consistent award-winner (InStyle, Allure, etc.). …But what about her other foundations? How do they stack up? Here are the Top 5 Laura Mercier Foundations, taking into consideration reviews from TotalBeauty.com, Sephora.com and Makeupalley.com. You might be surprised!
1= Laura Mercier Mineral Powder SPF 15 ($35)
Avg. TotalBeauty.com Rating=9/10; Avg. Sephora.com Rating=4.5; Avg. Makeupalley.com Rating= 4/5
Product Description from lauramercier.com: “Laura Mercier Mineral Powder SPF 15 is a finely milled powder composed completely of natural elements with 15 active amino acids to clear the skin of toxins, promote healthy skin cell growth and fight the aging process. Oil-free and water-resistant. Apply as a buildable foundation or a pigmented powder. Pure Pearl Powders and Mica impart a soft focus effect creating a natural, healthy, youthful glow. Zinc Oxide works as a sunscreen agent to block the sun’s harmful rays. Contains anti-aging properties. Apply Mineral Primer to skin prior to application to enhance SPF 15 protection. Use with the Blending Brush for flawless application. Use with the Face Brush for more coverage.”
*Those who wrote positive reviews on Sephora.com praised this foundation’s buildability and the fact that it didn’t make their skin look “dry” or “flaky”. The small number of negative reviews (only 39/345 reviews were 3 stars or under) commented that they felt it looked “cakey” after a few hours.
2= Laura Mercier Silk Creme Foundation ($42)
Avg. TotalBeauty.com Rating= 8.9/10; Avg. Sephora.com Rating=4.3/5; Avg. Makeupalley.com Rating=4/5
Product Description from lauramercier.com: “Laura Mercier Silk Crème Foundation is a rich and luminous foundation offering full coverage while hydrating and protecting the skin. Hydrates and protects while causing fine lines and imperfections to optically disappear through its advanced light-reflecting qualities. Ideal for persons with rosacea or hard-to-cover pigmentation.”
*Reviewers on Sephora.com are nearly unanimous in their praise of this foundation’s full coverage and ability to stay put all day long. Those who wrote negative reviews (again, a small number — only 42/240 were 3 stars or under) disliked the “matte” finish and felt it tended to look too “dry” and “chalky.”
3= Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 ($42)
Avg. TotalBeauty.com Rating=8.2/10; Avg. Sephora.com Rating=4.6/5; Avg. Makeupalley.com Rating=3.9/5
Product Description from lauramercier.com: “Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer is a sheer, lightweight moisturizer with SPF 20 & a hint of color that can be used in place of foundation for a natural appearance while adding a healthy glow to your complexion. Features an antioxidant vitamin complex that acts as a free radical scavenger to protect the skin from even the most aggressive effects of the environment. Extremely long-wearing, stays colour true & wears evenly.”
*With 1,015 reviews on Sephora.com, this is by far the most reviewed foundation of the top 5 listed. Reviewers loved how it provides a “very natural, no-makeup look” and doesn’t feel too heavy. Those who wrote negative reviews commented that it made their skin feel greasy after a few hours.
4= Laura Mercier Moisturizing Foundation ($42)
Avg. TotalBeauty.com Rating=8/10; Avg. Sephora.com Rating=4.3/5; Avg. Makeupalley.com Rating=4/5
Product Description from lauramercier.com: “Laura Mercier Moisturizing Foundation is a highly pigmented foundation especially formulated for drier or more mature skin and hydrates the skin with added moisture. Allows for truly buildable coverage, from a very sheer, weightless, “no makeup” look to more complete coverage. Hydrates skin, softening and easing fine, dry lines. Stays colour true and wears evenly. Vitamins A, C and E act as antioxidants to protect the skin from harmful effects in the environment. Apply with a damp sponge”
*Those who wrote positive reviews loved that the foundation provided full coverage while still looking “fresh” and “dewy”. Those who wrote negative reviews commented that it tended to “settle into fine lines” and felt a little “heavy” going on.
5= Laura Mercier Oil-Free Foundation ($42)
Avg. TotalBeauty.com Rating=8.7; Avg. Sephora.com Rating=4.2/5; Avg. Makeupalley.com Rating=3.7
Product Description from lauramercier.com: “Laura Mercier Oil-Free Foundation is a layerable, highly pigmented formula to be used only where needed and allows the user to determine the amount of coverage. Apply very sheerly or layer for more coverage. Never looks cakey or heavy because of the lightweight formula. Extremely long-wearing, stays colour true, and wears evenly. Vitamins A, C and E act as antioxidants to protect the skin from harmful effects in the environment. Oil-free, yet non-drying. Ideal for all skin types.”
*Positive reviewers on Sephora.com liked the amount of coverage this foundation provided and how they felt it controlled their shine throughout the day. Those who wrote negative reviews felt it was difficult to blend and had a limited range of shades (i.e. the shades offered had too much of a yellow/orange undertone).
What is YOUR favorite Laura Mercier foundation? Do you have any application tips?
Top 5 MAC Foundations
Posted by Wendy in Top 10 Lists on December 18th, 2009
Even as a seasoned visitor to the MAC Pro store, I still get overwhelmed by their vast selection of foundations. Sometimes I get so wrapped up in the “latest” launch that I forget some of the tried and true formulas that established MAC as a top tier makeup brand in the first place. So, in an effort to relieve some of that confusion, I’ve crunched the numbers from both Makeupalley.com and TotalBeauty.com and have put together a list of the the Top 5 MAC Foundations. Drumroll please…
#1 = MAC FACE & BODY FOUNDATION ($32)
Average TotalBeauty.com Rating =8.6/10; Average Makeupalley.com Rating = 4/5
Product Description from MAC.com: “A water-based, water-resistant foundation that provides long-lasting, natural coverage for face and/or body. Ideal for all skin types. Face and Body Foundation provides sheer, natural looking coverage in an easy to blend, water-resistant formula. The long-lasting formula is available in a wide range of colours and contains several emollients to help moisturize and condition the skin. It delivers professional looking results that meet the exacting standards of beauty photography and is ideal for perfecting the face and body.”
*From the reviews on Makeupalley.com, it appears that many people LOVE that this foundation feels light and sheer, yet provides good, solid coverage. Those that submitted negative reviews often commented that it became shiny/oily-looking as the day went on. These reviewers commonly had combination – to -oily skin types.
#2 = MAC STUDIO FIX POWDER PLUS FOUNDATION ($26)
Average TotalBeauty.com Rating = 9.1/10; Average Makeupalley.com Rating = 3.6/5
Product Description from MAC.com: “A one-step application of foundation and powder. Gives skin a smooth, flawless, all-matte, full-coverage finish. Long-wearing: lasts for up to eight hours. A real all-in-one. The choice of pros, and a long time favourite of MAC fans.”
*The consensus on Makeupalley.com seems to be that it is best to apply the Studio Fix Powder Foundation with a brush as opposed to the included sponge. Many reviewers like the “airbrush finish” this foundation gives and the amount of coverage it provides. Those that submitted negative reviews commented that they didn’t think it had a lot of staying power.
Average TotalBeauty.com Rating = 7.9/10; Average Makeupalley.com Rating = 3.5/5
Product Description from MAC.com: “Totally tech. A tri-system blend of water, emollients and powder. Looks solid, glides on as a soft, creamy emulsion. Provides a natural matte, powder-perfect finish. Smooth to blend, easy to work with: provides a full range of coverage. Water-cooled – refreshes and hydrates skin. Light diffusing: softens lines, creates a fresh, flawless finish. Good on all skin types. Studio Tech is dermatologist tested, ophthalmologist tested, non-acnegenic and safe for contact lens wearers.”
*As with the Studio Fix Powder Foundation, most reviewers on Makeupalley.com advise using Studio Tech with a brush as opposed to the included sponge. It seems that reviewers are pretty divided between those that love the amount of coverage it provides (flawless!!) and those that think it might provide too much coverage, causing an almost “mask-like” effect. (If you find this foundation is looking “mask-like”, I would suggest putting a few dots of the foundation on with a brush, and then blending it out with a damp sponge.)
#4 = MAC STUDIO SCULPT SPF 15 ($29.50)
Average TotalBeauty.com Rating = 7.7/10; Average Makeupalley.com Rating = 3.6/5
Product Description from MAC.com: “A creamy, luxurious, gel-based foundation that provides medium buildable to high coverage with a natural satin finish. Hydrating, instantly revitalizes the skin while keeping it looking smooth, soft and plush. Long-wearing, water-resistant.”
*Makeupalley.com reviewers LOVE how the gel-texture provides great coverage and is also very buildable (without looking cakey). Many reviewers emphasized how the finished product still looks like “real skin,” not overly made-up. Those that submitted negative reviews mentioned said that it looked “greasy” on their combination/oily akin after a few hours and tended to settle into their pores.
#5 = MAC STUDIO STICK SPF 15 ($29.50)
Average TotalBeauty.com Rating = 7.1/10; Average Makeupalley.com Rating = 3.9/5
Product Description from MAC.com: “A creamy smooth stick foundation with medium+ coverage for a natural flaw-free finish. Stick system provides smooth twist-up action: precise application and fast, even touch-ups. Available in 15 shades. Stick with it!”
*Makeupalley.com reviewers love the variability and blendability of the Studio Stick. Some reviewers use it as their concealer, others use it as their foundation. Some reviewers swear by blending it on with your warm fingertips, others say it’s best to use a damp sponge or brush. Then there are those who love to blend a little with their favorite moisturizer to create their own tinted moisturizer. Those that wrote negative reviews often cited that they didn’t feel like they got very much product for the price. Other negative reviewers mentioned that they felt it made them look “greasy” as the day went on.
What about you? What is YOUR favorite MAC foundation?
Top 10 Primers at Sephora
Posted by Wendy in Top 10 Lists on August 14th, 2009
The benefits of using a primer under foundation are generally known — they help smooth the skin by filling in fine lines, deep pores and wrinkles, providing a “primed” surface for makeup application. However, primers can also provide additional benefits, such as (1) being oil-free (2) adding hydration, (3) providing antioxidant protection, (4) brightening your skintone, (5) providing SPF protection and (6) being composed of primarily natural ingredients. To help take the guesswork out of your next primer purchase, here is a list of the top 10 primers at Sephora.
Use the following key to help differentiate between the additional product benefits offered by each primer: O=oil-free, H=hydrating, A=antioxidant protection, E=brightening skintone, N=natural ingredients, and S=SPF. Descriptions are taken from Sephora.com
1. Bare Escentuals Bare Vitamins Prime Time = Prepare your skin for the most amazing foundation with this preservative-free foundation primer that’s great for all skin types. Benefits = A, N. Sephora rating: 4.5/5 – 1,182 reviews, $21
2. Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer SPF 15 = A mineral based primer with SPF 15 that neutralizes the skin and creates a smooth, uniformed canvas for flawless makeup application. Benefits = N, S, O. Sephora rating: 4.7/5 – 79 reviews, $52
3. Tarte Clean Slate = A lightweight, emollient face primer. Benefits: A, N. Sephora rating: 4.5/5 – 290 reviews, $27
4. Smashbox Photo Finish = Smashbox makeup artists use this product to create a perfect canvas for foundation application. Benefits: A. Sephora rating: 4.4/5 – 1,766 reviews, $36. Also available in Smashbox Photo Finish LIGHT ($30- for oilier skin types), and Smashbox Photo Finish Primer SPF 15 with Dermaxyl ($42).
5. Laura Geller Spackle = One of Laura Geller’s signature creations — a sleek foundation primer. Benefits: O. Sephora rating: 4.3/5 – 375 reviews, $23
6. Per-fekt Beauty Skin Perfection Gel = A multi-tasking all-in-one vitamin enriched, sweat-resistant and water-resistant skin perfector. Benefits: A, O. Sephora rating: 4.2/5 – 471 reviews, $57.50
7. Make Up For Ever HD Microperfecting Primer = A lightweight, oil-free complexion corrector that enhances the skin’s texture and primes the skin for makeup application. Benefits: O. Sephora rating: 4.1/5 – 632 reviews, $32
8. Korres Face Primer = A silicone-free, 99 percent natural, antioxidant rich face primer that creates the perfect canvas for makeup application. Benefits: A, N. Sephora rating: 4.1/5 – 216 reviews, $28
9. Laura Mercier Foundation Primer = A vitamin-rich, water-based foundation primer. Benefits: H, A, O. Sephora rating: 4.1/5 – 134 reviews, $30. Also available in Laura Mercier Hydrating Foundation Primer ($30) and Laura Mercier Oil-Free Foundation Primer ($30).
10. Benefit “That Gal” Brightening Face Primer = A silky pink primer that makes skin appear smoother and brighter. Benefits: B. Sephora rating: 4/5 – 392 reviews, $28
-Images from sephora.com
Top 10 Budget-Friendly Beauty Products
Posted by Wendy in Top 10 Lists on August 7th, 2009
We’ve all heard that there are great products to be found in your local drugstore beauty aisle. Unfortunately, a visit to your local drugstore can be just as overwhelming as a visit to the department store, with dozens of different mascaras, blushes, foundations etc. all clamoring for your attention. In an attempt to relieve some beauty aisle stress, here is a list of the drugstore finds that are staples in my makeup kit:
1. L’Oreal True Match Super Blendable Makeup ($10.49) – I once grabbed this when I was in a hurry for a photo shoot and had run out of some of the foundation shades in my kit. I’m glad I did, because it’s now one of the primary foundations I use! It lives up to its claim of being super blendable, providing a natural-looking light to medium coverage. It also boasts no oils, fragrances or oil-clogging fillers. With 24 shades to choose from, there’s a true match for everyone. I highly encourage you to give it a try 
2. Maybelline Volum’ Express Turbo Mascara ($7.49) – Want to add volume to your lashes without any flaking or clumping? Give this mascara a try! I love using it in the waterproof formula for weddings.
3. Maybelline Great Lash ($4.79) – It’s hard to argue with a classic. Is there a beauty award this iconic mascara hasn’t won?
4. Maybelline Dream Mousse Blush ($7.49) — This is one of my latest obsessions. Don’t be worried by the brightness of the shades in the jar. When applied to the apples of your cheeks with your fingertips, the result is a natural, radiant flush of color. An added plus? The air-whipped texture makes it virtually impossible to look clownish. My favorite go-to shades are: #10 “Pink Frosting,” #25 “Rose Petal,” and #40 “Soft Plum”
5. ALMAY Intense I-Color Eye Shadow Trios ($7.49) – The first time I used the ALMAY Intense I-Color trio for “Hazel Eyes,” I was amazed at the silkiness of the eye shadow. All three colors applied as easy as higher-end brands, and by categorizing the trios according to eye color, it’s easy to find one that will make your eyes pop. Each trio comes with an eyelid, crease and highlight color. Perfect!
6. Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover ($6.00) — I have frustratingly sensitive eyelids. Most eye makeup removers start stinging after 5 seconds, so I was relieved when I used Neutrogena’s Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover and didn’t feel a thing. Just shake the bottle thoroughly and apply with a cotton square. It even removes pesky waterproof makeup with ease.
7. Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Anti-Chip Top Coat ($5.49) — I love it when products do exactly what they claim to do. Sally Hansen’s Insta-Dri Top Coat really does dry in 30 seconds, and while none of my manicures have ever lasted more than 5 days, I’ve definitely been able to squeeze out an extra 2 or 3 days by using this.
8. Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion ($11.49) — No fancy frills or packaging; just a simple, non-irritating moisturizer that provides a great base for makeup.
9. Neutrogena Ageless Restoratives Continuous Hydration Eye ($15.49) – This hydrating under eye cream provides a perfect base for concealer.
10. CoverGirl Line Exact Liquid Liner Pen ($5.79) — Love, love, love this eyeliner. The small, compact size combined with the felt-tip applicator make it easy to achieve either fine or bold lines. Just make sure to shake well before use.
Top 10 (ok, maybe 12) Bridal Makeup Products
Posted by Wendy in Top 10 Lists, Weddings-101 on July 29th, 2009
Primers:
1. Smashbox Photo Finish Primer or Photo Finish Light – I love primers because they not only smooth out your pores and fine lines, but they also allow your makeup to last much, much longer!
2. Laura Mercier Regular Primer or Oil-Free Primer
3. Urban Day Primer Potion (eyeshadow primer — your eyeshadow will not budge!)
Foundations:
4. MAC Face and Body Foundation – a fantastic, water-based foundation that gives a little more coverage than a tinted moisturizer, but looks just as luminous
Cream Blush:
5. Stila Convertible Color in “Gerbera” or “Lillium” – a consistent award-winner, these convertible colors provide a natural flush
Powder Blush:
6. NARS powder blush in “Orgasm” – a dozen magazine editors can’t be wrong
7. MAC powder blush in “Pink Swoon” (women with cool undertones) or “Peachykeen” (women with warm undertones)
Highlighters:
8. MAC Cream Color Base in “Pearl” – blend on your cheekbones with fingertips, and voila, hollywood cheekbones
9. Benefit “High Beam” highlighter -Benefit didn’t nickname this highlighter “Supermodel in a bottle” for nothing – dab a few dots on your cheekbones with the applicator and blend with fingertips for super chiseled cheekbones
Gel Eyeliners:
10. Bobbi Brown Gel Eyeliner – this eyeliner continues to rack up the awards. Apply with the Bobbi Brown Ultra Fine Eyeliner Brush to achieve a thick or thin line.
11. MAC Fluidline – apply with a small-angle brush, such as MAC #263 or #266
Waterproof Eyeshadow:
12. Dior Diorshow Waterproof Mascara
-Images from maccosmetics.com and sephora.com
Top 10 Chanel Rouge Allure Lipsticks
Posted by Wendy in Top 10 Lists on July 16th, 2009
Here is a list of Makeupalley.com’s Top 10 Chanel Rouge Allure Lipsticks (with 10+ reviews):
- Voluptuous Rouge Allure (11 reviews, 100% would repurchase) — One reviewer described it as a “beautiful cool red…a very wearable red even for ppps.” (pale porcelain princesses)
- Sexy Rouge Allure (13 reviews, 100% would repurchase) — Considered a perfect shade of berry red. One reviewer adds, “If you are fair, DON’T be afraid to give it a go and try it.”
- Prodigious Rouge Allure (12 reviews, 100% would repurchase) — One reviewer said, “It has just enough pink to brighten up your face, just enough red to make it stand out and not make you washed out, just enough sheen to make your lips look healthy and plump… .”
- Admirable Rouge Allure (12 reviews, 100% would repurchase) — Many reviewers call it the perfect light-beige, pink nude.
- Darling Rouge Allure (10 reviews, 100% would repurchase) — Considered a “beautiful, warm, rose-pink shade” with a touch of brown.
- Genius Rouge Allure (17 reviews, 94% would repurchase) — One reviewer said it was, “ the perfect balance of golden peach and warm pink with just a hint of coral.”
- Naive Rouge Allure (15 reviews, 93% would repurchase) — Noted for being, “a totally wearable pinky-nude–just a beautiful, “innocent,” clear color with the finest, softest gold shimmer that lights up my face, yet is subtle.”
- Desirable Rouge Allure (13 reviews, 92% would repurchase) — Considered a “lovely deep pink color with a touch of rose.”
- Delicate Rouge Allure (12 reviews, 91% would repurchase) — Described as a delicate “warm nude beige.”
- Lover Rouge Allure (20 reviews, 85% would repurchase) — One reviewer said, “[T]his slightly more pink shade of red is AMAZING! It makes my eyes pop, and it looks just as great dabbed on with my finger on top of some lip balm for a light colour, or for full on 40s va-va-voom style.”
-Image from Nordstrom.com
Top 10 Chanel Glossimers
Posted by Wendy in Top 10 Lists on July 16th, 2009
If you haven’t already gotten sucked into Makeupalley.com, you should pay it a visit. With over 1 million members, this beauty-networking site is the place to go for a thorough catalog of beauty reviews.
Here is a list of Makeupalley.com’s Top 10 Chanel Glossimers (with 50+ reviews):
- Pagoda Glossimer (75 reviews, 89% would repurchsae) — Described as a “beautiful medium rosy shade.”
- Unity Glossimer (143 reviews, 87% would repurchase) — Noted as being a “nice bronzy-rosey metallic neutral.” Many medium to dark-skinned reviewers say it is the perfect neutral.
- Sirop Glossimer (165 reviews, 86% would repurchase) — One reviewer said it’s a “gorgeous sheer watermelon pink.”
- Force Glossimer (119 reviews, 84% would repurchase) – Considered a “very sexy” deep berry/burgundy color with gold shimmer.
- Giggle Glossimer (138 reviews, 83% would repurchase) — Described as a pink gloss that is “plummy…with a bit of soft brown.”
- Spark Glossimer (a whopping 235 reviews!, 82% would repurchase) — Many reviewers call it the perfect berry color.
- Jaipur Glossimer (102 reviews, 79% would repurchase) — One reviewer described it as a “pretty pale pink/peach colour with lots of gold shimmer.”
- Blizzard Glossimer (233 reviews, 75% would repurchase) — Noted as a “neutral-cool frosty plummy mauve that works with many skintones.”
- Twinkle Glossimer (125 reviews, 75% would repurchase) — One reviewer described it as “a beautiful, pinky-peach gloss with a just the right amount of golden shimmer,” while another noted that it was “a very fresh, polished lipgloss for fair skinned ladies.”
- Pin-Up Glossimer (134 reviews, 73% would repurchase) — Considered by one reviewer as “a perfect ballet shoe pink with gold shimmer.” She adds, “It is just gorgeous. I can wear this on its own and actually prefer it that way, it just gives my lips a little something extra.
-Image from beauty411.typepad.com
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