Sunday, March 23, 2014

Worth It: Makeup Brushes (Face)

I don't pretend to be a professional but, through years of trial and error I've learned a little something about makeup… At least I'd like to think I have! Truth be told, the quality of your makeup brushes will determine the way "you look" (your makeup look, that is). What's it worth having an great foundation if you don't have the correct tool to apply it with? Allow your makeup products to meet their potential by investing in the right application tools.

There are three main factors that I look for in good quality makeup brushes:

  • Soft synthetic bristles (I have sensitive skin so this factor is important to avoid irritation)
  • They don't shed
  • They keep their shape (especially after being washed)

That being said, whenever I apply my makeup these are the face brushes that I rely on to do the job:
Note: I haven't included the Beauty Blender (since it's not a actual brush) but, it's the tool I use to apply most of my liquid foundation.

Sigma Large Powder - F30: Last year I bit the bullet and decided to invest in a good brush kit. I chose Sigma's Mrs. Bunny Essential Kit and I've never looked back! This large powder brush is probably my favorite in the kit. It's big and fluffy but, compact at the same time. It provides precise application of powder (so the powder doesn't end up everywhere except your face). In my experience, a good powder brush is the most difficult to find since they're so prone to shedding. And, I'm so glad I found this one!

Sigma Foundation - F60: This tapered foundation brush provides flawless application. This is the only other tool I use to apply foundation besides my Beauty Blender. What I love about it is that it's not stiff like similar brushes. Its flexibility makes foundation easier to blend, ensuring you don't get a streaky application.

Sephora Angled Synthetic Blush - 130: This is a brush that I've had for years and it has never failed me! Originally designed for blush, I find that it actually works best with bronzer. It picks up just the right amount of product and delivers very precise application (great to achieve a chiseled look). It's the only brush I use to contour. 

Sigma Large Angled Contour - F40: I thought this was going to be the brush that would replace my Sephora 130 but, alas it couldn't. Even though it didn't meet my countouring needs, it turned out to be a great blending brush. Once I'm done applying my bronzer and blush I use the F40 to blend-out any harsh lines. It also does a decent job at applying blush. Ultimately, I'm very glad I found another use for this brush. 

Sephora Pro Airbrush - 55: I purchased this brush with the intention of using it as a foundation brush… Long story short, that turned out to be a disaster. However, I refused to believe I had just wasted my money and was determined to give it a new purpose. After playing around with my products, my Airbrush 55 was reborn as a blush brush! And, so far it has a done a wonderful job at applying the appropriate amount of product to my cheeks (I  fully admit guilt to overdoing my blush once or twice).

Clockwise: Sigma F60, Sigma F30, Sephora 130, Sephora Pro 55 / Center: Sigma F40

What are your favorite face brushes? I've included links to the items that are still available online.

This has just been a small peek into my makeup brush collection. I promise an upcoming post with my "worth it" eye makeup brushes! I truly hope this has been helpful in any way, shape or form!

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Until next time!






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Sunday, March 16, 2014

Review: Kate Somerville Purify Clarifying Cleanser


Anybody who really "knows me" knows that I'm very particular about my skincare routine. See..., I have sensitive & oily skin, which makes it very difficult for me to find the appropriate products to fit my needs. Previous products either caused break-outs or did nothing for my skin. These frustrating experiences taught me to research products before purchasing them!

My latest research led me to Kate Somerville. This brand has a wide range of products: cleansers, toners, exfoliants, masks, etc. Having such sensitive skin I decided to go for a cleanser. So, I picked up the Purify Clarifying Cleanser, which is targeted for oily skin. 

Its claims: Removes impurities, like makeup and excess oil, and reduces the appearance of pores.

Main ingredients: Salicylic Acid, Peppermint Oil, and Rosemary Leaf Extract.



I've been using this product for about a month. Here is my experience with this cleanser:

Pros:
  • Leaves skin clean & refreshed (the peppermint oil creates a nice tingling sensation)
  • Great at removing makeup (light & heavy application)
  • Good oil control
  • Reduces the appearance of pores
  • Reduces blemishes & hyper-pigmentation
  • A little goes a long way (you only need a dime size amount)


Cons:
  •  First use caused a stinging sensation (it literally only happened that one time… but, it kinda freaked me out)
  • Caused dry patches for the first week (for two days I went back to the Neutrogena Naturals Acne Cream Cleanser, a product that did nothing for my skin)
  • Its expensive ($32)

As of right now, I actually enjoy this product (even after the whole drying my skin out incident). I use the Clarifying Cleanser twice a day, morning and night. And, I truly do see a difference in my skin!!! However, for someone with sensitive dry skin I would recommend they try the Gentle Daily Wash instead. What cleanser works for you?

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Until next time!




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Monday, March 10, 2014

OOTD: Casual Chic Outing

As promised, here is the second outfit look from our adventure in Old San Juan!:




Photography & Editing By Edward Iglesias (www.instagram/phoenixoptics.com)


T-shirt: ZARA

Skirt: ASOS Curve 

NecklaceZARA

Watch: Michael Kors

Hat: Charlotte Russe

Shoes: BCBGirls

Lipstain: Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick in Vampira


I must say that one of my favorite things about this outfit is the ASOS Curve Midi Skirt. It is so comfortable and versatile!  And best of all, it doesn't wrinkle up throughout the day (something that concerns me in office settings)! I liked the it so much I got it in Navy Blue as well. 

I've included links to the items that are still available online (just click on the item's brand name). 

One again, a huge Thank You to Eddie & Lenna!

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Until next time!





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Sunday, March 2, 2014

OOTD: Bohemia San Juanera

Nothing compares to the charms of my Old San Juan! I had so much fun walking up and down the Old City (steep hills and all) with my friends for my first "OOTD photoshoot".

Here are some the first results from our adventure (more outfits to come)!:


Photography & Editing by Edward Iglesias (www.instagram.com/phoenixoptics)


Jeans: Torrid

Shoes: Forever 21 

Necklace: BCBGMAXAZRIA

Watch: Michael Kors

Purse: Coach 



In my next post I would love to share this magical city with you.

A very special Thank You to Eddie & Lenna for being awesome!!! 

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Until next time!







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