Prime Time

One of the most annoying things after spending hours perfecting a smokey eye or creating amazing eyeliner, is to have it crease on you before you've even left the house. Creasing can look really beautiful if it's intentional. If not, it's bloody annoying. Like almost everyone obsessed with makeup, I've dabbled in many a primer; some have been awful, some amazing. After a little root through my make up collection, I've chosen the ones I use most regularly:

Urban Decay Primer Potion

The UDPP is probably the most widely known and used eye primer out there. Hailed as a "legendary' product, it promised more 'vibrant eyeshadow that lasts 24+ hours and NEVER CREASES'. While it is a great product that does increase the vibrancy of eyeshadows used after, something about its texture puts me off. To me, its greasy. Even a tiny amount of product patted onto the eye takes a while to sink in and for me, has never really done much to help the longevity of my eye make-up. My eyes will still crease after a few hours and its wand does nothing to help spread the product. While I have never finished a full bottle of UDPP, its packaging makes me slightly weary, even after a few uses the primer potion seems to dry up and nothing seems to be left. Although UD have changed the bottle, the fact that I have to cut open the bottle to seize over half the bottle irritates me. Especially when it doesn't work that well on me. Am I doing something wrong?

MAC Painterly Paintpot

While I've tried many of the paintpots in MAC's collection, it is Painterly that I always revert back to. Its matte texture and skin colour makes it the most wearable, and it is definitely more hard-wearing than UDPP. By taking the smallest amount on your ring finger, gently placing it on the eye, it creates a thicker layer than the UDPP and makes the colour more vibrant and last a lot longer. But again, for me it doesn't last all day. There is still some small creasing, hardly noticeable unless pointed out. To make the product last longer, I gently apply a light layer of translucent powder, which helps to set the primer.

NYX Concealer in a Pot

And finally comes the NYX Concealer in a pot. Lots of people swear by using a concealer on the eyes, followed by a dusting of powder to set it; while others claim this never, ever works. For me, it works in the same way as the others. It lasts a few hours, until slight creasing can be seen. But for those on a budget who don't want to invest in a specific eye primer, its a great way to ensure your eyeshadow lasts longer. 

Do you have a preference when it comes to eye primers, or are you bothered?

Happy Sunday! 

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Tip: Get more out of your concealer

The other day I was at the Clinique counter (after I finished my shift at work) getting the 3-step skincare routine done on me, and I learned some pretty awesome stuff.  The girl working did the 3-step on half of my face and then re-did my face makeup so I could leave looking presentable.  And that's when she told me...
how you can make your concealer last so much longer!


Now what she did was combine Clinique All About Eyes eye cream with the Line Smoothing concealer, and used the mixture on my under eye circles.  Her claim was that the eye cream helps depuff/reduce darkness as well as helping the concealer adhere to the skin and blend better.
You don't really need a specific eye cream to get the effect, though, as I don't believe the hype surrounding them anyway.  I tried this using my trusty Aveeno Daily Moisturizing lotion and it worked just as well.
Well, she also told me you only need about half as much concealer when you do this, which makes perfect sense right?  And to my surprise it totally works.  My under eye circles were just as concealed using this technique as they were using double as much concealer.
(For funnies, I am totally loving the Clinique Line Smoothing concealer.  It erases my under eye circles like no one's business.  I used it sparingly on my acne scars today, and it covered those too.  Yay!)

Look!  (For the swatches/demonstration I used Clinique All About Eyes cream- it's my mom's- and Clinique Quick Corrector concealer in Moderately Fair)

Left: All About Eyes, Right: Quick Corrector concealer

Left: All About Eyes, Middle: All About Eyes+ concealer mixed together, Right: one swatch of cream+concealer blend

That middle swatch is about enough product to cover both under eye areas and then some, and I started with about the same amount I would originally use for just one eye.  So being someone who wants to stretch their dollar in every possible way, I love this idea.  It makes your concealer last about twice as long, as well as helps in a better application (blends better, more smoothly).

And keep in mind that although I used All About Eyes eye cream for this,  you can definitely use a regular facial lotion.  I just happened to have what the Clinique girl recommended on hand, so I used that for the post.

Hope you guys are having a great start to your week, after the long weekend!  I had to work yesterday (Fourth of July), but I didn't have plans otherwise so it was ok. :)

xox

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Maybelline Dream Mousse Concealer- goodbye under eye circles!

Reminder: Don't forget to enter my giveaway if you haven't already!  It ends June 30th.  Click here to do so! :)

After attempting to conceal my under eye circles using Garnier's Skin Renew roller, I was wondering if anything would do what I wanted it to.  I know the Garnier tinted roller works for a lot of you, but personally it wasn't cutting it for me (although I do love the cooling effect it has!).  So, my quest for a good under eye concealer continued- one that doesn't cake, doesn't settle into the lines under my eyes, and gives sufficient coverage.
I was so, so excited when I picked up the Maybelline Dream Mousse concealer, because guess how much I paid!?  It was $1 and some change, because it was marked down on clearance (at my local ShopKo- which I hate going to but they always put out the LE displays, strangely enough) to $2, and I had a $1 off coupon. Jackpot!  I've been wanting to try this concealer for the longest time and was hoping it would hold up well against my under eye circles.
I've heard it's discontinued and I'm so sorry about that!  I've seen it available at some of my local drugstores (what's left of stock anyway), and online at various websites.
.....it's not so bad!

Maybelline Dream Mousse concealer in Light 2-3.5

Note: Photo on left is the most color accurate

The shade leans very yellow, but I've found it's not noticeable with other face makeup.  I wasn't so sure if Light 2-3.5 would be my match, but usually I'm about the second or third shade in Maybelline so I thought it would be ok.  Turns out it worked!

The consistency is what I think draws most people in to these "mousse" products, and this one is exactly that.  It's an airy, almost whipped texture that feels lightweight when applied.  This also makes it easy to blend in.  Although it's a "mousse", it still feels soft to the touch, and you don't need much to cover an area.  

In terms of coverage, I've found this fully conceals my acne scars/redness and does a pretty good job on my blemishes.  I also like to conceal the redness around my nose, and this also excels in that area.  Like I said at the beginning of this review, I was really hoping it would multitask as an under eye concealer- I'm pleased with the amount it covers:

(Click to enlarge!)

1. is my normal eye, no makeup

2. is the Dream Mousse concealer dotted all along my under eye area

3. is the concealer blended out with my finger

4. is topped with a powder (using Physicians Formula Mineral Wear Correcting Pebbles)

I hope you can see how much of a difference it makes- at least I see a pretty substantial one!  I notice my eyes look refreshed and awake when I use this concealer, especially opposed to the Garnier tinted eye roller.  Not a huge difference, but just enough so I at least feel like the majority of the circles are concealed.  My under eye area is the main place I use this concealer now.

Onto the problems I have...

One, using this under my eyes it does slightly cake throughout the day.  It's not hugely noticeable and still doesn't settle into fine lines, but worth noting.  

When I use this on acne scars or just other areas of my face, I notice it disappears nearing the end of the day.  I've tried using different powders and foundation underneath it, and I've decided it just isn't long-lasting on my face.  I still haven't found this to be a problem under my eyes, though.

Lastly, it can be a bit drying especially for blemishes- if you have dry skin I'd beware.  For me as long as I steer clear of using it on my blemishes it doesn't bother me, but something to be careful about.

Pros:

- Provides good coverage

- Lightweight consistency

- Easy to apply/blend

- Doesn't settle into fine lines

Cons:

- Discontinued/hard to find in stores

- Doesn't last all day

- Can be drying

Do you guys own this?  Do you like/dislike it?  What are you using in terms of concealer?  I'd love to know. :)

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Attempting to conceal under eye circles with Garnier

Last Sunday I picked up the tinted Garnier Nutritioniste Skin Renew Anti Dark-Circle Roller.  It contains caffeine and claims to act as a concealer and under eye circle/puffiness corrector.

Before I start my review, I want to note that I only recently started concealing my under eye area, and I only do it when I really feel the need.  I have a few fine lines under my eye area that I hated putting product on, because it always seemed to just emphasize them or look cakey.  After doing some research I've learned that the consistency of the product is really what makes a difference, and covering up dark circles makes a huge difference!  So much so that I've been more interested in seeing what works.

Garnier first came out with the 'eye roller' idea awhile ago, but it was an anti-puffiness moisturizer that didn't contain any tint.  I've heard that this makes for a good concealer, so I thought I'd give it a shot.  I got mine for $13.99 at Walgreens.

From Ulta.com (I thought this explained better what it's supposed to do that the description from Garnier):

Instantly roll away dark circles. Caffeine Gel + Rollerball energizes and stimulates microcirculation. Lemon Essence brightens. Tinted mineral pigments instantly corrects dark circles. Over time, lack of sleep and daily fatigue make eyes look tired. Microcirculation slows and the delicate skin around the eyes becomes thinner and more translucent. Dark circles and shadows appear. Skin Renew Anti-Dark-Circle Roller is right for you if you want to instantly correct the appearance of dark circles and brighten the skin around your eyes.

Your under eye area is supposed to look brighter after use every morning for one week.

Well, since I highly doubted its ability to minimize dark circles, I mainly tested this as a concealer.
Starting with the shade:  I'm about an NC20 in MAC, and this is a pretty good match for me if not a little yellow.  I find the yellow undertones help cancel out shadows under eyes.  I'd say this shade would work for you if you're around NC15-NC30 in MAC.

Left: swatched, Right: blended

The consistency is thin and runny, and blends into my skin quickly.  This makes it easy to apply using the rollerball.  It doesn't feel heavy or cling to fine lines (of which I have a few directly under my eyes...WHY!).

Now... does it conceal?

1. is my bare eye

2. is the product "rolled" underneath

3. is the product blended out

4. is after applying powder (using Physicians Formula Mineral Wear Correcting Pebbles)

Personally, I don't feel like this does much in terms of really correcting any under eye problems.  The best part is that it doesn't emphasize or cling to my little lines.  I suppose my eyes look a little brighter in the 3rd and 4th pictures, but I probably wouldn't be able to tell on someone else. 

I also don't think this conceals better or even as well as others that I've used- Maybelline Dream Mousse concealer (post on this coming shortly), Maybelline Age Rewind Double Face Perfector concealer, to name a few.  

Overall, I would say stick to your regular under eye concealer of choice- this one seems to be mostly gimmick and hype.  I've read a few reviews from girls that said it worked for them, but unfortunately I can't recommend it based on my results.  

Have you tried either this tinted version or the regular?  What is your favorite under eye concealer?  

Happy weekend, everyone!

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CVS Clearance Haul

Woo hooo I love clearance, and spending money I HONESTLY do not have!

Oh well, deal with what happens tomorrow...tomorrow!

I just can't help myself when I see that 50-75% off sticker! It's heaven<3

Here's what I picked up!

-Almay "One Coat Dial Up" Blackest Black (Orig. $8.49)

PAID: $2.12

- Revlon Age Defying Foundation in Light Medium (Orig. $14.29)

PAID: $3.57

- L'Oreal Visible Lift Under Eye Concealer in Fair (Orig. $12.29)

PAID: $3.07

- Essie "Sand Tropez" (Orig. $8.29)

PAID: $4.15

- Wet n wild "Glitz" (Orig. $1.99)

PAID: $.99

- Wet n wild "Bird Bath" (Regular Price $1.99)

- Sally Hansen "Hi- Def 04" (Orig. $6.99)

PAID: $1.75

I spent about $18.60 for everything.

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Revlon Age Defying SPF 25 concealer in light

Luckily for me, the CVS beauty clearance sale is still going on!  There aren't any CVS's where my parents live, so while I was staying with them over break I couldn't take advantage of the first days of the sale.  But that's OK, because when I got back to school- and CVS country- I was able to stop in.  One of the (two) things I purchased was the Revlon Age Defying concealer in the shade light, which contains an SPF of 15.   I've heard nothing but rave reviews about this stuff so I was excited to see it 75% off!

Revlon touts this as a "restorative eye cream concealer".  It contains Botafirm which the packaging doesn't really explain, but after a little research online I found that it's for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes and also contains vitamins.  It comes with 0.37oz of product, and I got the lightest shade, Light (ha, really?).  

The consistency is very creamy, and thinner than I'd expect it to be seeing as it's in a tube.  I'd say it's in between your standard liquid concealer and cream concealer.  You only need a small little dab of this as it's very pigmented (you can see from my swatches below).  I love this, because it means my tube will last me a long time.  The pigmented formula means it has good coverage, as opposed to some liquid concealers I've tried (I just recently realized the difference the kind of concealer can make- and that each kind serves its own purpose.  Thicker cream concealers are better for pimples, while lighter/thinner formulas are typically better for larger areas, spots, under eyes).  

Because this is more specifically for under eyes, I first tried it there.  I used to not conceal under my eyes but recently I've had just... terrible dark spots (like right in the tearduct area, if you know what I mean).  Probably due to the fact that I haven't been sleeping much lately, but that's college for ya!  Anyway, I find this works about average at covering the darkness- it doesn't cover as well as my Maybelline Double Face Perfecter concealer, but I like it better despite that for other reasons:

- it doesn't cake/settle into the delicate skin area

- it melts into my skin instead of sitting on top of it

- it leans yellow so it conceals redness well

- it lasts all day with the rest of my face makeup (foundation/powder)

- you don't need much because of how pigmented it is, so the little bottle will last you a long time

If your CVS still has this in stock, I think it's a steal at a little over $3.  I recommended it to my friend and she is in love with it, too.  

Have you guys tried this?  (I think I'm pretty late to the party with trying it)  How's your weekend going?  I have piles and piles of work to get done and errands to run.  So.. hopefully I'll talk to you soon.  :)

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e.l.f corrective concealer and complexion perfection

Complexion Perfection



Complexion perfection



Corrective concealer

Corrective concealer



Complexion Perfection

Create a balanced and radiant complexion that is beautiful and healthy. The lightweight formula evens out the skin tone and absorbs excess oil. The sheer formula brightens, mattes and neutralizes the skin. The colors are meant to be blended together as the Blue neutralizes orange, the Green neutralizes red, the Pink neutalizes grey and the Yellow brightens and neutralizes red.

Blend all colors together and apply all over your face before foundation. I never seen a difference when I did it. So I always apply them seperate wherever I need them. This isn't a 'Must Have' product.

Corrective concealer
Conceals under-eye darkness, blemishes and other skin imperfections with customized coverage. Brightens under-eye circles and neutralizes redness. Convenient size for on-the-go travel.
Use the nude and beige shades to conceal problematic areas. Use the green shade to neutralize redness like that of acne and the lilac shade to brighten yellow tones. I really like this product, it covers the redness really well. I apply this before foundation. You have to make sure you blend it in well or you can see the colors.

So if you were to get either product I would just buy the corrective concealer. It works way better then the powder.

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Review: Laura Mercier Creme Smooth Foundation

It can withstand rain, wind and I would even bet gail forces..This is not a car or plane I speak of but Laura Mercier's new Créme Smooth Foundation. This is a brand I tend to overlook, love their products but never seem to buy them. Not anymore!

I have always had a flighty relationship with foundations, proclaiming one to be the perfect concoction and then realising its flaws soon afterwards. However, after almost two weeks of this foundation, I'm in love with it and I don't think I want to change it.

I went to my local Laura Mericer counter with the idea of buying the mineral powder foundation, but as I have dry skin was forced to consider this new formula. Thank God, I did.

What they say:

Laura created this modern, lightweight foundation that floats over skin without visibly settling into fine lines. The hydrating formula includes a multipeptide complex infused with Dermaxyl and advanced optical diffusers that help to visibly smooth out lines and wrinkles.

What I say:

Don't let the formula in the gar fool you, when I first saw it I thought I would end up looking like a cakey mess. However it really is lightweight, but provides the perfect amount of coverage; enough to cover imperfections but not make you look like Jordan on a bad day. You need only a pea-sized amount of product all over the face as it blends so well and you use your fingers to lightly apply it to the face. Not only does it leave the skin with a truly flawless coverage, but it definitely keeps it hydrated throughout the day.

I have had this problem with other foundations, where my skin feels tight and I feel the need to moisturise and reapply the foundation. With this Laura Mercier one, it feels as if nothing is being worn and the skin is moisturised all day. And it lasts, all day long.

I would not recommend this product for oily skin, as it's main aim is to hydrate; but any other skin type would benefit from its usage. Now, it is expensive; 60euro/£50 but the amount used each day is so minuscule that it will literally last ages.

I use it together with the Laura Mercier Secret Concealer, which I apply with a small concealer brush to the under eye area. Like the Créme Smooth Foundation it is so soft and lasts the whole day on my face.


Step 1: Apply concealer to inner eye are with concealer brush
Step 2: Blend with ring finger
Step 3: Bright eyes

Have you tried this foundation/concealer?

My Youtube

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Drugstore Mini Haul :)

I'm so sorry for neglecting the blog this weekend.  I was away at my boyfriend's parent's house, busy with family, etc.  However, I have some new things to share with ya'll today!  I know I said I was going to try and stay away from purchasing anything until I hit pan, but I couldn't resist- especially when Kmart has Wet 'n' Wild cosmetics BOGOfree this week!  (I never used to even go to Kmart, until I moved to a town that has one within driving distance.  They have some pretty decent sales on makeup on occasion.)
I also stopped by Target last night with my boyfriend, and I picked up the ELF studio line complexion brush.  I love it!

Pictures:

WnW Lust color icon eyeshadow palette (I FINALLY got it!  I've been wanting this forever but haven't gotten it for one reason or another)

Swatches: no flash

WnW color icon blush in pearlescent pink

WnW cream eyeliner in black

Swatches: bottom, blush; top, eyeliner

WnW Coverall concealer in fair

Swatch

ELF studio complexion brush

I love Wet 'n' Wild BOGOfree sales- the Lust palette I paid $4.99 for, and then the concealer I paid $3.59.  I got the cream eyeliner and blush for free.  Total it came to only $9.09!  Awesome.  

I'll be doing reviews of the cream eyeliner and concealer for sure this week-  I've gotten a really good first impression from the both of them.  I know there are plenty of reviews online of the Lust palette, but I still may do one in the future for kicks.  

Hope you're all having a good Monday!  I sure am.  

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Green & Glittery Eye

It's been a while my Vixxens! I finally created this look (out of nowhere) for you, so I hope you enjoy!

Products Used:

Hard Candy Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15 in Light - Wal-Mart $8.99

Hard Candy "Nobody's Perfect" Concealer Palette in Fair - Wal-Mart $8.00

Benefit's F.Y.Eye Primer-(I don't think they sell it anymore)

Benefit's Lemon-Aid Concealer- Benefit Cosmetics $20.00

Maybelline Mascara in Lash Stiletto in black - Target $7.99

Maybelline EyeStudio Creme Liner in Blackest Black - Target $6.99

NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in Pacific - NYX Cosmetics $3.50

NYX Pearl Eyeshadows in White Pearl & Jade Pearl - NYX Cosmetics $2.00

NYX Glitter in Blue - NYX Cosmetics $2.00

MAC'S Fix + - MAC Cosmetics $18.00

Coastal Scents 88 Warm Palette - Coastal Scents $24.95

I hope you all enjoyed! If you have any questions leave a comment!

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Xoxo Vixxen

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