the little beans in life i love.

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

A Review: YSL Fuchsia Creme De Blush

Yves Saint Laurent Creme De Blush in Fuchsia 5
Described to be a "vibrant pink", this blush lives up to its word. I've been really into cream blushes this winter. I find that the dewy finish of cream blush goes well with my drier skin and the crisper weather. Since I've started exploring the world of cream blush, I've stumbled across this beauty, which is something I would have taken one look at in the past and sworn that it just wasn't for me. Oh how I have been foolish.

Color: There were only 3 colors offered at Sephora, a coral, a bright red, and this fuchsia color. There are a total of 5 colors offered on the Sephora website, however, so I suggest checking that out, too. I decided to go with fuchsia because it was something I would normally steer clear of. I basically wanted to jump into the deep end of cream blush, as I tend to gravitate towards corals. The color choices are generally vibrant in this line, but you have to trust that a light hand will do the trick.

Texture: This feels like mousse and applies not sticky but silky. A little bit goes a long way, yet it is easily blended with the fingertips. I prefer the lightweight feel of YSL cream blushes to Bobby Brown's cream blushes and Maybelline's Dream Mousse Blush.

Packaging: I love that it is a cube container yet I was surprised by the lightness of it. The gold lid is a beautiful touch, though it is easy attract fingerprints.

Price: At $38, I believe this may be a little too much to spend on a blush, no matter how great it feels  on the skin. You can get the same visual effect with a drugstore brand, though the texture may not be as smooth. At the same time, I find that I use so little of this product at a time that this little container will probably last me for a long long time. My advice would be to save your money unless you absolutely fall in love with the shades of this line.

Would I repurchase this product? No. But am I happy to be an owner of this product? Absolutely :)

j

Sunday, November 11, 2012

Using Now: Giorgio Armani Maestro Foundation

Giorgio Armani Maestro foundation in 4.5
If you haven't heard of this product by now, the concept swirls around pigment and nothing much else. The ingredients disappear after they are smoothed on the skin leaving pure pigment. Since water and powder add weight, Armani chemists settled on 5 nongreasy oils that cannot be detected on the skin. Only a few drops of this light fluid allows the pigments to create a uniform layer of color while 3 of the more volatile oils evaporate immediately, leaving two behind. One of these oils contains a sunscreen that protects the skin while the other includes white lotus extract, which has free radical antioxidant properties. The overall finish is semi-matte and looks as if you are wearing a second-skin.

If you are looking for full-coverage foundation, this is not what you are looking for. However, if you are looking for makeup that looks like you are not wearing makeup but has a brightening effect on the skin, this is an excellent choice. To cover up my blemishes, I use my Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage, as this foundation will not cover spots well even when layered.

Texture-wise, I was surprised by the fact that it is much more liquid that Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua, but doesn't require as much shaking up before use. This means that it must be blended very well into the skin to create that flawless finish. I find that using my fingertips works best.

As far as packaging goes, the dropper bottle is a neat way to dispense the formula and the thick glass has a nice and heavy feel to it.

I found that this foundation doesn't last beyond 6 hours, but then again my skin is very oily and needs constant blotting. Though I'm also not a fan of the price-tag, I think this product is pretty one-of-a-kind when it comes to foundations.


Would I repurchase this product? Yes. 

j

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Get Your Vitamins

Centrum Multivitamin For Women Under 50
I figure, if we are already using anti-wrinkle cream in our late 20s to prevent the signs of aging, why not take the vitamins too? Taking a multivitamin a day can support a healthy balance of energy, immunity, metabolism, and physical stress. What I can't wait to see is the effect this will have on my skin and hair. If I'm already applying all these vitamins to my face and hair through creams and shampoos, I see no harm in consuming them in a single multivitamin!

j

Friday, September 21, 2012

La Roche-Posay

I have been obsessed with skincare these days as you can tell. My search for the perfect skincare regiment started with Effaclar Duo, which I found at my local CVS with that special red sticker marking it as one of Allure's top beauty products.  After I found that this brilliant little tube worked wonders for clearing my acne, my exploration in all that is La Roche-Posay began. The skincare line contains has different names for different problems. For example, they have a line dedicated to age, one for rosacea (redness), one for skin that has just been repaired, one for acne...etc. The line for acne happens to be called Effaclar, and as you can see, I have buckled down and invested full force into it.
My La Roche-Posay dictated skincare regiment 
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel 
I wash my face with the Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel every morning and night. The consistency of this clear gel-like product feels comfortable on the skin and lathers with a nice foamy wash. I used to use Cetaphil, but I like this much better because it has more body to it and leaves the skin feeling cleaner without that residue-y afterthought. There is no scent to it, which can be a good thing.
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo
Next, I apply Effaclar Duo on my problem acne spots. Be careful not to apply this all over the face, as this will dry it out like crazy. But well worth it to me, as this product will eliminate pimples like a dream. You cannot over-use this product, however, as it will lose its steam over time. I only bust this sucker out when I start breaking out and give it a rest when I am somewhat clear.

La-Roche Posay Effaclar K
Effaclar K is what I use when I am not using the Effaclar Duo, during the end stages of a breakout or when I am completely clear. As the label says, it is an anti-relapse acne treatment. If you're a woman, you know you get those times of the month when your hormones are wack and breakouts are inevitable. That's why I generally end up alternating between Effaclar K and Effaclar Duo throughout the month. I find that this method prevents the skin from getting used to the effect of the Duo. Effaclar Duo contains 5.5% benzoyl peroxide while Effaclar K contains 1.5% salicylic acid as key ingredients. Both good stuff.

La Roche-Posay Effaclar M
To moisturize, I use Effaclar M, a mattifying moisturizer that is GREAT as a primer for makeup. I have shiny, oily skin that becomes downright embarrassing by mid-day, so this keeps my oil level at a controllable level. I still need to blot, but product doesn't feel greasy and glides smooth on the skin. Not to mention, the scent is great and very mild (as with all La-Roche Posay products).

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Serum
On the occasions that my skin is completey free acne (I love these moments), I start concentrating on refining my pores and on anti-aging properties. The serum is what I use in place of the Duo or K. Once applied, the skin burns a little and I find that applying Effaclar M right away relieves this somewhat. Once applied, you are to avoid sunlight as much as possible. I am almost done with the bottle and I have seen improvement in pore size. However, this will not keep acne breakouts from occurring like Duo or K will.

La-Roche Posay Mela-D Pigment Control
Not part of the Effaclar line, but a couple things I'd like to throw in: Just like the Effaclar Serum, the Mela-D Pigment Control is to be used as a serum after cleanser and before moisturizer. You also have to avoid the sun with this product and if you do have to go outside, sunblock is a must. I am currently in the midst of testing out this product and it is not part of the Effaclar line, so a review of this is in the works...

La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Daily Anti-Aging Primer with Sunscreen
Onto sunscreen, my only La Roche-Posay sunscreen happens to be Anthelios 50, which serves as a primer. Since I wear makeup nearly everyday, I picked up this product thinking it would be a good mix. Wrong. This does not blend well with most moisturizers and ends up peeling and leaving a cake-y residue on the skin. It goes on very thick, sits heavy on the skin, and makes you feel like a greaseball. The one good thing about it is it's SPF 50, but there are other sunscreens I've sampled by La Roche-Posay with the same SPF that don't feel nearly as thick and cake-y. This one happened to be recently released, which is partly why I was suckered into getting this product. What a mistake.

Overall, I have to say that, when it comes to skincare, it is so important that whatever you are using contains the ingredients that you are targeting. For instance, if you are looking for acne-clearing products, salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide are a must, or when looking for anti-aging products, alpha-hydroxy acids, retinols, vitamin E and such are a must. For the most part, La Roche Posay is a winning brand to me because it comes with the proper ingredients and does so with beautiful packaging, a pleasantly mild fragrance, and a reasonable price. I love the straightforwardness of this brand and will continue to sing its praises to family and friends.

j

Friday, August 17, 2012

GOT ACNE?

I've been breaking out lately and I believe it has been due to my poor diet habits. My savior has been this special combination of award winning beauty products. The seal says it all. I cannot believe how  fast my spots go away when I use these two. It works.


Step 1: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo is an acne treatment serum that you work into individual spots. This will sting a bit at first and gives me an itchy sensation. Don't be alarmed by this, it just means that it is working. It can cause some drying and irritation at first, but since then my skin has gotten used to it. When I see a pimple coming or did the nasty deed of popping one, I apply this on the spot. I also notice that using this product makes the pigmentation of acne scars go away faster.



Step 2: Vichy Normaderm Triple Action Anti-Acne Hydrating Lotion is an acne treatment to be used as a proper moisturizer following the first serum step. This lotion is not oily at all and has a pleasant fragrance to it. This product is to be applied all over the skin and helps prevent more acne from surfacing. I use this ALL the time versus the serum, which I only apply when the spots pop up. My two critiques about this product are that it doesn't have SPF, which means I have to layer on another sunblock on top of it, and it does not mix well with my foundation (Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua), creating some product peel-off. If you want to avoid that, I suggest only using this regiment at night, even though I use it night and day.


These two products can be found at select CVS drugstores and the prices are reasonable for French pharmacy items, which I think are top of the line when it comes to skincare.

Now, onto something that does not work.....


Mario Badescu's Drying Lotion for acne spots is not my cup of tea. I actually felt that this astringent-type solution made my acne more irritated, not to mention, it feels pretty harsh on the skin. The smell is pungent of alcohol. The lotion is the pink stuff at the bottom of the bottle and is to be applied with a q-tip on acne spots. Not worth the hype. This product just didn't work for me.

j

Wednesday, July 4, 2012

A Review: Dermologica Skin Hydrating Masque

Dermologica Skin Hydrating Masque
I was first introduced to this product by Lisa Eldridge (surprise, surprise), and I purchased it because my skin is combination, though lately it has been quite dry because I've been skipping on moisturizer. I'm still looking for a good moisturizer so if you have any suggestions, please let me know! Anyway, this mask goes on clear and you let that layer dry, then you add another layer until you achieve a "moisture magnet". The formula says to wash it off after 15 minutes, but I sleep with this stuff on and wash it off the next morning. The film of moisture doesn't bother me enough to remove it so I really don't see the need. No problems with this routine yet. It reminds me a lot of the Dr. Weil's for Origins Mega Mushroom mask, but less thick and greasy. I really love the way it feels and apply it all over my throat as well. My skin drinks this stuff up. It is wonderful feeling for dehydrated skin like mine and by the the following morning after using this, my moisture is restored and my skin feels nice and tight.


Would I repurchase this product? Yes.

j

Tuesday, July 3, 2012

A Review: Pond's Wet Cleansing Towelettes

Pond's Wet Cleansing Towelettes
This earned the Allure's Best of Beauty 2010 so naturally I'm sold on this as I'm looking for a new makeup remover. Usually I use the Pond's Cold Cream to remove my makeup but, lately, going to the gym has demanded something quick and easy to use. The quilts are great for grip and feel nice and thick against the skin. The scent of chamomile and white tea could have wowed me more, I think it sounds better than it smells. There's a tinge of bathroom candle that this scent brings to mind. As for the formula, this does NOT withstand the ultimate test which is removing waterproof mascara, something I use every day. Your best bet for scent and formula would be to go with Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes, the hydrating ones in the blue package. Now that product actually does remove waterproof mascara, only it leaves a film of soapyness which should be cleansed off in the sink/shower anyway.

Would I repurchase this product? No.

j

Monday, July 2, 2012

Loving Now: Caudalie Beauty Elixir

Caudalie Beauty Elixir
I use this as a toner before I apply serums and moisturizers. It goes fast so I wouldn't mind getting the big bottle next time! Once you spray this all over your face and neck, you immediately take a whiff of the flower water and rosemary, and the feeling of peppermint permeates your skin. Heaven. Not to mention this has been doing wonders for my skin, making it appear brighter and evening out my complexion. No wonder this is such a buzz in the beauty world. I carry this in my gym bag and after a shower, this is simply delightful. This can be used over makeup as well, on your hair, on your body, pretty much anywhere and anytime is a good time for beauty elixir!

j

Monday, June 25, 2012

Skincare Products


Products Mentioned:
LUSH Herbalism clay-based facial cleanser
LUSH Sultana of Soap
LUSH Buffy body butter
La Roche Posay Efflaclar Duo Acne Treatment
La Roche Posay Efflaclar Facial Cleanser
Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant
Caudalie Beauty Elixir



Thanks for watching!


j

Friday, June 22, 2012

Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation




Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation
I'm a 5.5 in this line and am on the verge of testing this product out. It will take me a good couple weeks to come up with a review for this product so I will keep you posted. I have high hopes for this product since the texture is luxurious and smooth as silk. The ultimate test will be wearing it on a tough day at work and seeing how long it lasts. More to come!

j

Top 5 Items Summer Wishlist

I've been really into skincare these days, favoring it over makeup. Lately, my makeup has been minimal for the most part and I try to avoid wearing foundation whenever I can. It just feels better in these warm Summer days. This means I have to be extra on top of cleansing and brightening so that my acne doesn't act up and my skin appears radiant. The only makeup item I included in this list happens to be a highlighter that is a must for Summer because it's supposedly subtle in shimmer and doesn't overpower in the sunlight, yet still manages to make you glow.

Dermalogica Skin Hydrating Masque

BECCA Shimmering Skin Perfector in Pearl

Giorgio Armani Crema Nera Reviving Eye Cream

Caudalie Beauty Elixir

Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum

My theme this season is all about age prevention and looking absolutely radiant while keeping the makeup tame. I've already tried samples of most of these products and can't wait to get my hands on the full sizes!

j

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Work/Job Interview Makeup- Burberry


See YouTube scroll bar to see products mentioned.

j

Monday, April 23, 2012

Mini Lush Haul


Products Mentioned:

Lush Fresh Face Mask in Cosmetic Warrior
Lush 2+1 Dry Shampoo in Godiva



Nothing's better than pampering yourself at home in front of the TV with a face mask!

j

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Wish List: NARS Summer 2012

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The NARS Summer Collection draws inspiration from nature, flowers and fruits while focusing on earth tones and shimmer to create an edgy and vivacious coloring of makeup.  It doesn't get more magical than this.


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What's really on my radar isn't so much of the blues and purples, but the Ramatuelle Trio Eyeshadow featured above. This warm and cool tone mixed makeup palette combines two shimmery hues of silver and peach with one matte apricot. From what I understand, it's supposed to be universally flattering for all skin types. 
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Next on my radar is the Buenos Aires Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil which is the nude beige pink one featured on the far right. I think this one is a winner because I've never tried the NARS Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil line which is supposed to be amazing. How beautiful is that color? I can't wait to try it out!

j

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Using Now: Burberry Eyeshadow in Pale Barley

Burberry Eyeshadow in Pale Barley= $30
I've done a video post on this already but I've found that lately I've been reaching for this pretty lady more than ever. I've been trying to go for the "no makeup" makeup look recently, on behalf of my dad's recommendations (what's he trying to tell me?), and this shadow is prime for a natural look that can also get you out the door in 5 minutes. It can be used alone on the lid without adding additional colors for crease, which is perfect when you just want to be lazy.

The formula of this shadow is pure luxury and quality. It's my new go-to for an everyday look and it goes excellent with brown eyeliner. I can't wait until Burberry come out with palettes!

j

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Makeup on My Friends: Tim

Here are some quick snapshots of makeup application on my friend Tim. Everyone can use a little makeup and as sexy as this piece of sizzle sizzle is, he is no exception!
Application of NARS Tinted Moisturizer in Alaska 02
Completed look, with flash

Face Primer: NARS Oil-Free Pro-Prime Pore Refining Primer
Eyelid Primer: NARS Pro-Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base
Foundation: NARS Tinted Moisturizer, Alaska 02
Concealer: Bobby Brown Creamy Concealer, Warm Ivory
Brows: MAC Charcoal Brown
Lid: Burberry Eyeshadow, Pale Barley
Outerlid: NARS Laguna Bronzer
Eyeliner: MAC Eye Pencil, Coffee
Highlight: MAC Eyeshadow, Orb
Contour: Benefit Hoola Bronzer
Blush: NARS Deep Throat
Lips: MAC Viva Glam Gaga 2 in Amplified Nude, NARS Turkish Delight Lip Gloss
Cheek Highlight: MAC Soft and Gentle Mineralize Skin Finish
Completed look, without flash

Tim also makes for an easy model. One thing that I learn from applying makeup on him is that a little bit of bronzer goes a long way!

j

Makeup on My Friends: Grace

The point of this makeup session was to try out these Eye Rock Instant Eyeliner Tapes that my friend Yeun Joo received in her Birchbox. 
Eye Rock Designer Liner Instant Eyeliner Tapes
They work by simply peeling and then sticking them on, like tape. I was really apprehensive at first, but it seemed to work after a little gently coaxing with a tweezer. Be sure that you don't touch the sticky with the oils from your fingertips because it makes more likely to fall off. The product claims to last for up to 16 hours. I'm a little doubtful but a night out for clubbing seems promising. 

My friend Grace was generous enough to let me test this out along with a full face of makeup.
Bare Face
Brow: Mac Charcoal Brown
Inner lid: NYX Hippie-Chic Palette, Light Purple
Center lid: NARS Sugarland Duo, Pink
Outer lid: NYX Hippie-Chic Palette, Green
Highlight: NYX Single Eyeshadow, ES07 Highlight
With Instant Eyeliner Tape Applied, no fill-ins yet. 
Before Photo
Right side: NARS Tinted Moisturizer, Alaska 02
Left side: Bare
Comparing the right and left sides of the face, you can see how brilliantly the NARS Tinted Moisturizer works. It surprises me how much coverage it gives for being a tinted moisturizer. It almost reminds me of BB Cream. You really have to work it in so I find that applying it with your fingers is best. I definitely recommend this over Laura Mercier. One thing to know is that it leaves a dewy finish, so it is great for people with dry skin. It's great that it's oil-free, but for people with oily skin, you may need to use powder.

Completed look, with flash
Completed look, without flash
Eyeliner: Make Up For Ever Aqua Eyes, 0L Black
Face Primer: NARS Oil-Free Pro-Prime
Foundation: NARS Tinted Moisturizer, Alaska 02
Under-eye Concealer: Physician's Formula
Eye Primer: NARS Pro-Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base
Blush: Benefit Hervana
Cheek Highlight: MAC Soft and Gentle Mineralize Skin Finish
Lips: Revlon 001 Nude Attitude Lipstick, NARS Turkish Delight Lip Gloss

Grace makes for an easy model that I always have fun applying makeup on. This look would actually be great for just a day look but I also think with a little more pigment and a heavier hand when apply shadow, it can be great for a night out. I had fun using the eyeliner tapes despite my doubts!

j

Monday, April 9, 2012

Using Now: Highlight

MAC Mineralize Skinfinish in Soft and Gentle= $29
Bare Escentuals Blusher Brush
I started out using Dior's Amber Diamond as a highlight, but I was frustrated by how much product I felt I needed to apply before achieving the effect that I wanted. Fast forward to using MAC's Soft and Gentle, and I can't say how quick it is to dust this on and be out the door. It's not as fancy as some highlighters can be, but it really does the job when applied above the cheekbones and below the brows. The light reflects this product beautifully and the tiny bits of shimmer isn't overkill. I find it's easiest to apply this with my Bare Escentuals blush brush because the course hairs deposit the fine shimmer wonderfully.

j

Sunday, April 8, 2012

Favorite: Eyelid Primer

This is probably one of the least exciting makeup products to chat about, but still VERY necessary. This eyelid primer is sh*t, above all others...Laura Mercier, Urban Decay Primer Potion, what have you. It goes on clear which is something I really like, and makes your shadow last for days. I definitely wear it on those days where I know I'll be sweating with a greasy lid and for clubbing. 

NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base= $24


It's on the steep side, but for something that really works, it is worth it!

j

Sunday, March 25, 2012

Fresh Sugar Lip Polish


When the lipstick starts to settle into the lip crusties, I know it's time to bust out my Sugar Lip Polish to exfoliate those puppies. You can use this anytime but I like to apply it before showering. It tastes pretty good in case you actually end up consuming it, which is okay to do. What I like best is that it actually picks up the debris and dead skin cells from your lips and washes/rubs off. I don't advise you use this everyday, otherwise your lips can get quite raw. Three times a week is a good amount for me and it allows me to wear lipstick, crust-free.

j

Saturday, March 24, 2012

Using Now: NARS Douceur

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Monday, March 19, 2012

Gratifying:


Sometimes, I may sound overly obsessed about the makeup products I mention on this blog. And I may be guilty of using the word 'LOVE' one too many times, but it is certainly true. It's not just the fragrances or packaging or textures that I'm in love with. A tube of lipstick isn't just a lipstick. It represents so much more to me.  That tube of lipstick represents the idea that makeup has the ability to transform my mindset and suddenly help me forget about my troubles and worries in an instant :). If you can find something that can do the same for you, I urge you to reach with all your might for it and pursue it as best you can. That is the stuff of happiness....all the little things.

j

Saturday, March 17, 2012

Favorite Lightweight Foundation: Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua

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Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua in B20= $45
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This foundation is AMAZING for lightweight coverage foundation. I mention it quite a bit in my videos as a "second-skin" foundation that can blend in such a way that is lightweight, since it is water-based, yet build-able in terms of coverage. These are for those days when you are going to be out in natural sun-light and don't want it to be obvious that you are wearing makeup and also don't want that caked-on feeling of a full coverage foundation. I have tested this product out so much before finally purchasing, that I stand by it with full force. I even got my mom to use it for herself, and man is she picky. We both love the water-based formula that even smells wonderful as well. B20 is great for olive skin tones that are on the warm side. My mother is a B20 and I happen to be in between a B10 and B20 at the moment. B10 is the lightest shade is typically for fair shades. My one issue with this line is that I wish they came out with more skin tones for neutral skin. Definitely worth a sample to try out at the makeup counters if you are looking for a lightweight foundation that still manages to conceal!

j

Friday, March 16, 2012

Vera Wang Makeup For Kohls

Simply Vera for Vera Wang
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Starting this April 2012, Vera Wang will be adding to her Simply Vera Vera Wang Collection at Kohl's a cosmetics line that will have a price range from $16.50-$39.50 and contain 74 items. I love her belief in nude makeup being classic like black clothing. "These neutrals are effortless and modern, and enhance women without overpowering them," says the designer. "It's everyday glamour in a minimal way."

j