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!

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!

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!

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!

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

Review: American Rag Ponte-Knit Skinny Pants

As a plus size girl it has always been a struggle for me to find the a good pair of leggings. Now, I know that many people are against leggings being worn as "pants"… but the they're so comfortable! How could you not be tempted to wear them out? The key is to do it with class!!!

A couple of months ago I came across a pair at Macy's that turned out to be the American Rag's Plus Size Ponte-Knit Skinny Pants. I was immediately drawn to them because of how thick they are. Like I said before, finding a good pair of leggings is almost impossible. The biggest reasons being that they're too sheer and they don't hold anything in place. However, these "pants" really do the trick!

Here are some of its amazing features:

• Very comfortable & flexible
• Thick material (mixture of rayon, nylon, and spandex)
• Slim fit
• Stay in place all day (don't ride down)
• Wide elastic waist band (great tummy control)
• "Equestrian" style seams (gives them a more sophisticated look)

I should also mention that I currently own three pairs of these. Yeah…! I loved my first pair so much that I went back to Macy's and got two more. They're that great. You can dress up or down. I've literally worn them to the work, college, and the gym. 

I personally like to style them with flowy or baggy tops (sometimes layered with a jean shirt or jacket). They also look great with a sweater and boots (for cold weather). And, as a general rule: whatever top I'm wearing has to cover my derriere. This way I feel more comfortable, covered, and classy!

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Until next time!

Chimes

Review: Kirk Park Medium Maise

I am such a handbag junkie!!! Seriously, I can't get enough of them. So, I thought I'd tell you about the latest addition to my collection.

Allow me to paint the picture… It was a cold afternoon in Chicago (really, it was like 16°F). There we were, two Puerto Rican women (my mother & I) freezing our hineys off in the middle of the Oak Brook Center Mall courtyard. We had to seek refuge! So we darted into the nearest store, Kate Spade.

This is the part where I should admit that it was no coincidence we ended up here…

See, we don't have Kate Spade here in Puerto Rico. I was just dying to go into one of these stores. Let me tell you, I was not disappointed. It is such a cute store!!! The displays, the colors, the handbags, the jewelry, the shoes, the cellphone cases… I wanted it ALL!!!

But alas, I had gone with one purpose: find a black structured handbag. After browsing thorough the entire store I finally settled on the  Black Kirk Park Medium Maise. I could not be more content with my decision. This bag is exactly what I needed.

Picture taken by me

This handbag is so different from anything I have in my collection. It is such a perfect shape and size! I can fit all of my essentials without overfilling it (I carry a lot of crap). It has both the elbow holds and a detachable shoulder strap. This is always a plus for me, just incase I want to dress it up a bit. Which leads me to point out that it is a classic style; so, I don't see it going out of fashion any time soon. Also, the the lining is a very bright red polka-dot pattern. Such a breath of fresh air from having to dive into a never ending dark pit to find you're car keys, cellphone or anything for that matter.

And, could we talk about the bow!!! So adorable!!! I love how it gives it a "young" feel.

Picture taken by me

In conclusion, I love this handbag! I couldn't be happier with my first Kate Spade purchase. I see myself having this bag for a very long time.

I should also mention that this bag comes in snow white / black, which is gorgeous and oh so classy.

Have you ever purchased anything from Kate Spade? What was your experience like? Let me know in the comments down below.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Until next time!


Chimes