Review: Covergirl Ready Set Gorgeous Foundation

Once again, I've fallen victim to "clever" advertisement! Basically..., I finally caved, and bought the new Covergirl Ready Set Gorgeous Foundation. Seeing that I love the Covergirl Outlast 3 in 1 Foundation so much I thought that it would be worth a shot.

You should know:

• It's oil-free.
• Comes in about twelve shades.

Its claims: This liquid foundation's oil-free formula provides medium coverage to even skin tone and cover imperfections. The result is a flawless, natural look that lasts all day.

Pros:

• It's lightweight.
• It's blendable.
• Only oxidizes a bit (most foundations oxidize on me because of my oily skin).
• The price is great (under $10).

Cons:

• It has light to medium coverage (I prefer a bit more coverage).
• May irritate sensitive skin.
• Does not stay matte for more than two hours.
• Does not set well into skin, giving it a "cakey" appearance. 

Even after two weeks, I'm not entirely sure how I feel about this foundation... As I mentioned, it seem like the product just sits, almost like a film, on top of the skin. At first I thought that it might be the primer I was using underneath it (Hourglass Veil Mineral). But, when I tried it without the primer I got the same effect, except that it looked "oily" within an hour. It seems like this foundation is not ideal for oily skin, and is better suited for drier complexions.

However, I recently watched gossmakeupartist's latest video where he mentions that applying rose water after a powder product will result in a natural finish (check the video out here). Covergirl's website does mention that this foundation has a "built-in powder system"; so maybe this is what's causing the problem. I guess I'll try this "rose water method" out for myself and let you know!

Have you tried the new Covergirl Ready Set Gorgeous Foundation? If so let me know down below!

Thank you for stopping by!

Until next time!

YouTube Video: Collective Summer Haul!

Hey Guys! I just uploaded a new video on my YouTube channel called, Collective Summer Haul. Here I share with you all of the things that I've been picking up during my shopping trips for the past month.

It included items from stores like: Forever 21, Wet Seal, Nordstom Rack, & Ulta.

Check it out here: (or click here for direct link)

Don't forget to leave your comment, critique, and/or requests. I always look forward to hearing what you have to say!!! Also, don't forget to subscribe!

Thank you for stopping by!

Until next time!

Review: Garnier Skin Renew Miracle Skin Perfector BB Cream (Combination to Oily Skin)

For a while now, I've been on the hunt for a good drugstore BB Cream. Especially now for summer... Sometimes you just don't want to walk out with a full face of makeup on a hot day (Am I right?)! So, I finally decided to pick up the very buzzed about, Garnier BB Cream. I've already had it for about two week and thought that I was ready to share my take on it with you.

You should know:

• This review is only on the combination to oily skin version of this BB Cream.
• It's oil free.
• Contains Broad Spectrum SPF 20.
• Comes in four shades: Fair, Light/Medium, Medium/Deep, & Deep.

Its claims: Immediately mattifies, minimizes pores, and conceals imperfections to give skin a naturally smooth, flawless finish. 

Pros:

• Feels very light on the skin (you forget you have it on).
• Does not clog pores or cause breakouts.
• Has a matte finish.

Cons:

• Does not conceal redness or imperfections.
• Does not minimize the appearance of pores.
• Does not have buildable coverage.
• Is runny & watery (be very careful when unscrewing the cap, product may disperse).
• Does not stay matte for more than an hour.

This product may not have worked for me but, there are still a lot of people who do enjoy it . If you look at the box it comes in, it states under "purpose" of the product: "sunscreen" (which is very interesting). It gives me the impression that it is more of an "in-between step", and not meant to be used on its own (and substitute foundation). 

Regardless, let me know if you enjoy this product and why it works for you! But for now I think I'll just stick to my Jouer Matte Moisture Tint. 

Thank you for stopping by!

Until next time!

Review: Boscia Makeup-Breakup Cool Cleansing Oil

I'm ridiculously lazy when it comes to removing my makeup! Come on, admit it...you are too! ;P Laziness aside, it's essential not to skip this step before heading bed. Sleeping with your makeup on can clog pores, cause breakout, and even lead to premature aging. So, it is very important to establish a night time skincare routine. I've just recently added the Boscia Makeup-Breakup Cool Cleansing Oil to my routine and wanted to share my thoughts on it with you.

You should know:

• It does not contain: parabens, sulfates, & phthalates.
• Formulated for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
• Product must be applied to dry skin (directly on makeup).
• Be sure to massage product in for at least 30 seconds.
• Be sure to follow up with your daily cleanser of preference.

Its claims: An effectively gentle way to deep cleanse, this refreshing cleansing oil dissolves impurities and makeup without leaving an oily residue.

Pros:

• Truly remove all of your makeup, including waterproof mascara.
• Gentle enough for sensitive skin, doesn't sting eye area.
• Leaves skin feeling refreshed & clean (no residue left behind).
• Does not cause breakouts.
• Wonderful alternative to makeup wipes (faster, gentler, cost-effective). 

Cons:

• Can temporarily cloud your vision (only for a couple of seconds). 
• It takes two to three pumps of product (instead of the the one to two suggested).

I bought this product on a total whim and could not have been more surprised. I think I just found a new "holy grail" product! It literally get all of your makeup off in a matter of second, which is perfect for a lazy person like me! As awesome as this product is, you should always follow up with a cleanser to ensure that your skin is squeaky clean before your "beauty rest"! 

Have you tried this product yet? If you have, what are your thoughts on it? If you enjoyed this post and/or found it helpful feel free to share it on your favorite social media network!

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Until next time!

Must See: YouTubers (Beauty Gurus)

It's no secret how much I love YouTube... So, I wanted to dedicate today's post to some of my favorite Beauty Gurus. The truth is that if it weren't for these amazing people I wouldn't know as much about beauty products, application, brands, & techniques as I do now (of course, I'm no expert... not even close!). Not only are they informative, but they're entertaining and most of all inspiring.

Bear in mind these are just some of my favorites (if I were to include all of them this would be a very long post!). Let's start the list! Also, I have linked their channels (just click on the names).

From right to left: Michele1218, Gossmakeupartist, CheckInTheMirror, Amarixe, Itsjudytime (All pictures were pulled from each respective Intagram)

Michele1218: If I'm not mistaken, I've been watching Michele the longest (even before she got engaged, married, and had a baby! Actually, before I created a YT account). One of the things that I have always loved about Michele is how honest and specific her reviews & tutorials are. Oh, and she really knows her stuff! Make sure you check out her "Battle/Comparison" videos (they're spot-on and not to mention awesome!).

Gossmakeupartist: Where do I begin...? I have learned so much from watching Wayne. With 15 (or plus) years of experience in the makeup industry, it seems like there is nothing that he doesn't know. If he recommends it, you best believe I'm looking into it! Wayne has never failed me. On his channel you'll find great tips & amazing reviews. Honestly, he's like the best friend you have always wanted.

CheckInTheMirror: Rachel is the epitome of lovely! Plus, she has amazing taste! I just love how insightful her reviews & tutorials are. And, her cheerful bubbly personality is absolutely infectious. Her channel is not all about beauty, it's also about fashion, food, health, and home decor. I should also mention that her husband, Byron, also has a channel (ByronTalbott) where he shares amazing recipes. Make sure to subscribe to both of them!

Amarixe: I've also been watching Allison's channels (beauty & vlog channel) for some time now. I particularly enjoy her videos because we have similar tastes.  She's a girly girl, like me! At the end of each month I look forward to her "Monthly Favorites". Also, on her second channel she gives wonderful book reviews, "AllisonReads", and sometimes responds to her favorite TV shows, like Pretty Little Liars.

Itsjudytime: Judy is just awesome! If you're looking for great makeup tutorials Judy's channel is the place to go. Her "First Impression Reviews" are some of my favorites. Best of all, she has a vlogging channel (Itsjudyslife) with her husband, Benji, and three daughters (they just had twins... can you say "Super-parents"?) where they upload every day. Their little girls are absolutely adorable and they are so down to earth! You won't be able to get enough of them.

I wanted to include that most of them also have amazing blogs that you should also go check out. If you would like to show your support, subscribe to their channels. I know you won't regret it!


Who are your favorite YouTube Beauty Gurus? Let me know down below!

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Until next time!

Review: Chanel Perfection Lumière Velvet

About three weeks ago I wrote a post discussing my favorite foundations (check it out here). One of which was the Chanel Vitalumière Aqua. In it, I mentioned that I was thinking about picking up the new Perfection Lumière Velvet because it might suit my skin type better. So, I did! I've been using this foundation for two weeks now, and couldn't wait to review it for you!

You should know:

• It comes in about nine shades (some with pink undertones and others with yellow).
• It's oil-free.
• It's also water-based (best applied with fingers or a brush; never with a sponge).
• Before application you must shake the product well.
• Similar to the Vitalumière Aqua, but not the same.

Its claims: A lightweight second-skin foundation. It naturally smoothes and evens out the complexion for a velvety matte makeup result. 

Pros:

• It's lightweight (yet a bit thicker than the VA).
• Offers light to medium coverage.
• You don't have to shake it as much as the VA.
• Very blendable / evens out complexion nicely.
• Smooth velvet finish.
• Sets fast (I don't have to wait more than two minutes to apply setting powder. Actually, if you have dry skin you could probably skip the setting powder!).
• Wonderful rose water scent (it's faint & refreshing). But then again, all Chanel foundations have that same great smell.
• Long-lasting coverage. 

Cons: 

• It oxidizes a bit (it's important to keep this in mind while selecting your shade; it also happens with the VA).
• The packaging (even thought I love how "practical & travel friendly" it is... I never know how much product is left in it or when its finished!).

I guess this goes without saying but... I love this foundation!The Perfection Lumière Velvet took everything the Vitalumière Aqua was lacking (in my personal experience) and perfected it. I am glad to announce that I have just found a new "holy grail" foundation!!!

Have you tried this foundation? What are your thoughts? Let me know down below! If you enjoyed this post and/or found it helpful feel free to share it on your favorite social media network.

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Until next time!

Worth It: Foundations

Today I thought I'd share with you guys my top five foundations. I say top five because I actually own a couple of more foundations that I'm not so fond of. See, the reason I have various foundations is because each one offers different consistencies, application, coverage, and longevity. That being said I'll divide them into three categories: full coverage, medium coverage, & light coverage.

Also, I should tell you before that I have oily skin with mild hyper-pigmentation. Living in Puerto Rico means that I constantly battle with humidity. Oily skin with humidity is not an ideal combination, so I always try to keep my skin as matte as possible.

Now, lets jump in!

Full Coverage:

Sephora Perfection Mist Airbrush Foundation: I'll start with my most recent purchase. To be honest I have only used this foundation twice but, I already know I love it. Just like the name suggests it gives an airbrushed look to the skin. And it is particularly good at concealing the redness in my skin. I also like that it doesn't have a completely matte finish; it has just enough dewy-ness to look natural. It dries very fast, so you have to make sure to blend quickly. My preferred application method is to spray the product to the back of my hand and then apply it to my face with a brush. I find that directly spraying it on the face causes a huge mess (you get it everywhere), which consequently causes you to waste product (and you paid good money for it!). I see myself getting a lot of use out of this foundation.

Estée Lauder Double Wear: Now, this product is a well known cult classic, and for good reason. It is an amazing reliable foundation that you will find yourself reaching for over and over again. It really is full coverage and has a completely matte finish. However, because of the humidity I always make sure to apply a bit a setting powder before I head out the door. But, be sure not to apply too much powder or it will look cakey. Also, have in mind that a little goes a long way, or else you will get that same undesired cakey effect. I like to apply this product with my Beauty Blender because it distributes and blends the foundation evenly. This is my go-to foundation for events and special occasions because I know it will last all night/day & look great in pictures.


Medium Coverage:

Covergirl Outlast Stay Fabulous 3 in 1 Foundation: I previously talked about this foundation in my Worth It: Makeup Products post (if you haven't checked it out click here). Like I mentioned before, this is a great drugstore foundation and just an amazing foundation all around. It's definitely my everyday foundation of choice. It lasts all day and blends effortlessly into the skin. I just love how natural it looks. Like with my Double Wear, I apply it with my Beauty Blender. I'm currently on my second bottle of this foundation. I just can't live without it!


Light Coverage:

Chanel Vitalumière Aqua: I must confess that this foundation is not the most ideal for my skin type. It does not keep my skin matte and it doesn't offer much coverage. So why is this my third bottle of this product? Well... It feels wonderful on my skin! This foundation is water-based, so it's almost refreshing to put on. And, it is so light that it literally feels like you're not wearing any makeup at all! Once again, it's water-based, which means that applying it with a sponge is not advisable. I like to use my paddle foundation brush (Sigma F60) to apply and blend this foundation. Chanel recently came out with the Perfection Lumière Velvet, which is suppose to be similar to the Vitalumiere Aqua but, with a matter finish. I can't wait to try it for myself. (UPDATE: check out my review on the Perfection Lumière Velvet here)

Jouer Matte Moisture Tint: Ok, so I cheated... This product isn't a foundation; it's technically a tinted moisturizer. But, I felt the need to include it because it offers just enough coverage that it can be worn on its own as a light coverage foundation. It does a very good job at evening out my skin-tone. Even though it does have a matte finish, this product is not formulated to be long-lasting, so just remember to finish it off with some setting powder.

What are your favorite foundations? I hope that this has been helpful in any way, shape, or form. Also, I have included links to the items that are available online (just click on the item's name).

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Until next time!

Worth It: Makeup Brushes (Eyes)

As promised, today I wanted to share with you which are my favorite eye makeup brushes. These are my five "go to" bushes whenever I apply eyeshadow, eyeliner, concealer, and eyebrow powder. (If you haven't checked out my post on "worth it" face makeup brushes then click here!)

Like I mentioned in my previous post, there are three main factors I look for in good quality brushes:

• Soft synthetic bristles 
• No shedding 
• Keep their shape

Clockwise: Sigma E40, MAC 195, Anastasia 12, MAC 239 / Center: Sigma E05

Here are my "top five" eye makeup brushes:

MAC Eye Shader Brush - 239: This is probably the first "real" makeup brush I ever purchased. That being said, it's been with me for about eight years. This brush is dense, yet soft. So, not only is it great at building up color but, it also allows you to go back and blend out any harsh lines left behind. I can always rely on this shader brush to get the job done.

Sigma Tapered Blending - E40: I mostly use this brush to blend out my crease. Actually, sometimes I even use it to apply the color before I blend it. Its big & fluffy but, at the same time dense & precise. I truly love how it does its job effortlessly.

MAC Concealer Brush - 195: This is actually the only concealer brush that has worked for me. And it's the only one that I use for my under-eyes. All others just don't distribute the product as evenly as this MAC brush does. I tend to blend any concealer on the rest of my face with the Beauty Blender.  On a side note, I also use this brush to "clean-up" the edges of my lips with a bit of concealer whenever I use red lipstick.

Sigma Eyeliner - E05: This eyeliner brush is amazing! I use this brush along with my Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner. What makes this brush so great is that it keeps its shape. This is important for all makeup brushes but, even more so for an eyeliner brush. The E05 is precise & tapered and, it stays that way no matter how many times you wash it. It delivers a nice smooth line every time.

Anastasia Large Synthetic Duo Brush - #12: They say that "eyebrows frame the face"... So, consequently you need the proper tool to define them correctly. This brush is great at just that, offering precision. For me it's not just about filling-in the brow; it's about creating nice & clean edges. The best part about this brush is that it's a "two in one" tool.  When you're finished filling in your brows just flip the brush over and blend with the spooley to ensure that they stay looking natural.

Do you have any favorite eye makeup brushes? Let me know in a comment down below! I hope this has been helpful in any way, shape or form. Also, I've included links to the items that are still available online.

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Until next time!

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!

Review: Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick

I recently wandered into my local Sephora in search of more shades of my favorite lipstain, Stila Long Wear Lip Color. To my dismay, it appears that Sephora no longer carries this product anymore and its only available on Stila's website.

Being the true shopaholic I am, I didn't want to leave the store empty handed… So I asked one of the sale representatives if they had a similar product that he could recommend. That's when he guided me toward the Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipsticks. I had never heard of this product. But, it's to my understanding that it launched last year (I haven't been able to corroborate that).

Another (really sweet & nice) sales representative helped me swatch some of the colors on my hand. The first thing I noticed is that they're extremely pigmented. They're about twelve shades to choose from (I swatched about six of them). After contemplating for a while, I decided on Vampira (a dark vampy red) and Mau5 (a dark pink).

It seemed like I would get the most use out of these two particular shades. They have some very vibrant and funky shades in the line. However, (pretty as they are) they're just not practical for my style… So, I made my purchase and left. As soon as I got home I immediately tried them on & HOLY COW are they amazing!!!

Here are some of my favorite things about this product:

• Great pigmentation (as previously mentioned)
• Dries completely matte
• Does not bleed (no lipliner required)
• Does not budge (it's actually a bit hard to remove… but that's perfectly fine since I don't have to constantly reapply it throughout the day)
• It's build-able (if you do decide to reappl, it still looks smooth and flawless)
• It has a doe foot applicator (surprisingly good for precision)

I actually think Vampira might be my favorite lip color now! I really look forward to purchasing more shades of this product. I think my next purchases will be: Lolita (a dusty rose) & Outlaw (a beautiful bright red). 

Have you tried this product?

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Until next time!

Chimes

Worth It: Makeup Products

Today I wanted to bring you guys some makeup products that have become staples in my everyday routine. These are products that I think are totally worth a try. Also, I added a link to each product so you can go check them out for yourselves. So, lets get into it!

Covergirl Outlast Stay Fabulous 3 in 1 Foundation: This is by far the best drugstore foundation I have ever used. Actually, it's one of the best foundations I've ever use period! Not only does it have great coverage, but it blends easily, and stays on all day (a definite plus because of my oily skin); just remember to use a bit of powder after application.

Rimmel Stay Matte Long Lasting Pressed Powder: Another great drugstore product. This powder works ten times better at keeping me matte than the Chanel powder I was previously using (I couldn't believe it!). I use the shade Transparent (#001). This way I get the shine control without any additional coverage or "cakeyness".

Urban Decay De-Slick Mattifying Powder: I love to use this powder as backup and for touch-ups. By backup I mean that if I'm going out for the night, I'll lightly dust this on my T-zone over my Rimmel Stay Matte Powder. This powder could leave a white-cast; so when I say lightly I mean lightly! Nonetheless, it will totally keep you matte.

Maybelline Dream Lumi Touch Highlighting Concealer: I've been using this product for what seems like forever. I think I might be on my third tube of this stuff! Although it's not great at concealing… it does wonders as an under-eye highlighter! I just love how it can highlight, yet seamlessly blend into your skin-tone (nobody likes the reverse panda eye look…).

NARS Laguna Bronzer: My holy grail bronzer! I can't imagine my life without it (it's so well loved I couldn't include an picture of it open). This products is amazing for contouring (despite it having tiny gold specks). I find that it is totally worth the price, especially since you get a great product that will last you a while.

Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush in Natural Beauty: I'm not really one to wear blush, but man do I love this one! One word, pigmentation. It's the perfect color for my light-medium skin-tone, it blends like a dream and it stays put!

Urban Decay Naked Basics Eyeshadow Palette: I basically haven't put this palette down since I got it! I love how most of the colors are matte compared to the Naked 1,2, & 3 palettes. It is the most practical for everyday looks. And, I'm totally in love with Venus (I use it to highlight under my brows & in the tear-duct area).

NARS Larger Than Life Eyeliner in Via Veneto: This is the blackest eyeliner I have ever owned! It literally glides on and does not budge. It's the only thing I use to tight-line (apply to the upper water-line) my eyes. Plus, its retractable!

Benefit They're Real! Mascara:  An absolutely amazing mascara! It lengthens and volumizes, but most of all it hold the curl of my stubborn straight eyelashes. Oh, and did I mention that it washes off with no problem (unlike Maybelline's The Rocket Mascara).

Stila Long Wear Lip Color in Daring: I have to say that this is probably my favorite lip product! It is creamy, but matte, and very long wearing. It actually stays on all day, no joke! I especially love to wear it with my darker clothes.

Covergirl Outlast Lipstain in Plum Pout #425: I have no idea why these lipstains aren't more popular… I happen to think they're very cool. They're just like a marker, so you have a lot of control and precision. And, they really are long wearing. This particular shade I love to layer with the Stila in Daring to achieve my ideal "vampy" shade.

Naked Basics Palette, Tarte Natural Beauty, Covergirl Outlast Lipstain, Stila Long Wear Lip Color

So, there you have it! These are just some of the makeup products that I love… I hope to share more with you soon.

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Until next time!


Chimes