Korres Ginger and Vitamins Foundation, SPF 10

In the continuous effort to edit my makeup collection, this past summer I decided to try light-coverage foundations instead of tinted moisturizers (TM). A couple of my previously-used TMs were collecting dust, and I didn't have any face makeup for special occasions. Other than a dusting of powder if I have the heart to do it, I don't usually wear face makeup. However, light foundations/tinted moisturizers do even out my skin and provide a good barrier for my sensitive skin. And when you're going for more makeup, you need a little something over that bare skin.

Ok, yeah, so the real reason I tried Korres Ginger and Vitamins Foundation is because I read about it on Kajal Couture and just had to have it! I get tired of hearing about the same products on every beauty blog - it is a bit uninspiring and it seems like everyone uses the same new products, or the same old, over-hyped products. So little true exploration left! But, that's another topic for another day. Point is, I was impressed by Kajal Couture's glowing review and I'm glad I took a chance on this little-known product.

This is one my few pricier purchases with which I haven't experienced any buyer's remorse. In terms of coverage, this is definitely light-to-barely-medium. While I don't have many blemishes and scars, my skin gets irritated and reddens easily. This helps to even things out a bit. For a little more coverage, I use some concealer and powder to set. The texture is also nice - it is very lightweight and a little on the runny side (the formula is water-based), almost like liquid out of the bottle rather than than a cream in a tube. It's still very easy to use and blend though, and you really only need a small amount (pea-sized or less). The overall finish is a soft satin that looks natural and never cakes or dries up. I use L5, the second to darkest shade, for my golden/tan skintone. It's a tad light going on, but it settles and blends in well. I'm not sure how the shade will change/suit my skin as I get more tan this season, but I'm willing to mix it with something darker if need be. LF6 is probably a good bet for summer, or to keep on hand to mix with LF5 depending on what shade my face decides to be on a given day.

The SPF 10 is an added bonus - I prefer the low number here, because it prevents that white cast which some SPF formulas can have. I also love the convenient tube packaging and the slim design. It looks more like a prescription tube of acne medication actually, or a mini toothpaste. Some might prefer prettier packaging, but not I. This works, and that's all that matters.

If you really want a drawback or two, here they are. First, sensitive noses, beware. While I'm typically not sensitive to smell and don't mind fragrance, I find that this foundation has some weird, "organic"-y funk going on. I've gotten used to the smell and it doesn't bother me now, but I definitely noticed it in the beginning. Second, there isn't a huge shade selection. That said, I find that the shades it does have are often hard to find, and they might work for people with in-between skintones. But if you're considered very fair or very dark, there won't be many options here.

As a side note, I did try a coordinating concealer and enjoyed that as well. If I had kept and used it, there would probably be a glowing review here. But I didn't need it at the moment, so back to the store it went.

In truth, this is more a TM than a foundation, but if you need either a light foundation or a TM that is mid-range price-wise, good quality, and natural, this is it. Quality-wise, I'd say it is comparable to Laura Mercier's TM ($42) and because it is natural, preferable over Clinique's ($27 - I don't have much luck with their products anyway, other than lipstick), although they are similarly-priced. As far as high-end/Sephora brands go, the price is reasonable, although I got mine on sale. $28 @ Sephora (There is currently a sale on limited shades on the Korres website, so scoop one up now if you can)

NYC Smooth Skin Pressed Face Powder

The day is nearly over and the only way I'll make it is if I tell you about NYC Smooth Skin Pressed Face Powder in Translucent.

I honestly cannot remember why I decided to try this. Maybe it was reviews on MakeupAlley.com. Maybe it was the need to quench a makeup thirst without spending a lot of money. Maybe I was worried about color-matching issues once I tan up a bit. Who knows. But it works and I intend to keep it. Thought I'd share why.

A) At $1.99, It is dirt cheap. Really, do you want to spend $ on a translucent powder? A product with zero coverage and major uselessness potential? I didn't think so. And if you're worried about putting something that costs $1.99 on your face, well, don't. You're probably already slathering a whole lot of other junk all over it anyway. What's one more? Seriously speaking though, this is a fairly uncomplicated product - have no fear.

B) This works for a little shine control in your T-zone, setting other makeup, and somehow creating a more even complexion without a bit of actual coverage. It essentially does what a shaded pressed powder would do, except it makes you feel like you're wearing even less makeup than that and is even more fool-proof to use and touch-up. I've been alternating between this and my Sephora Mattifying Powder Foundation. It doesn't leave any noticeable white cast on me, although it might if I used a lot more. Depending on your skin tone, it's possible, so I reccomend using a big kabuki brush instead of a sponge. If you don't want the double coverage of a foundation and pressed powder, then dusting this over foundation will do just fine to "set" it.

C) It is dirt cheap.

D) Really simple (and obviously, cheap) packaging. I once tried the loose version from Jane Cosmetics and did not find it easy to use. I really do not appreciate any type of loose powder, and don't understand why drugstores still sell those big orange and green boxes of Coty loose powder (although they are a teeny bit charming). Just a personal preference - a slim, no-frills, old-school, plastic compact is so easy.

Much Ado About Brushes

So I saw this article on Sephora's new line of makeup brushes in the Times today and felt a little tug at my heart. They just looked so much prettier and glamorous all lined up in their color-coded fabulousness than they did in the Sephora mailer I received last week.

Courtesy of The New York Times

Of course, I have no need for more than a few makeup brushes and I certainly don't need anything color-coded. This is because I have some brilliant and wonderfully cheap makeup brushes from the e.l.f studio line. These are another one of my Fantastic-Finds-of-the-Year-That-I-Failed-To-Blog-About-Sooner.

My makeup brush collection is nothing to write home about. Spending money on brushes, although a decent investment for some I'm sure, just doesn't seem right to me and is completely unnecessary for my purposes. Also, I just don't get the same thrill out of buying an expensive brush. A retractable kabuki brush from Posh is about all I ever need. Prior to the e.l.f. brushes, my meager collection included a Posh travel-set of eye makeup brushes (which I never use) and a set of Ecotools (from which I occasionally use the powder brush and lash comb before it broke).

So why did I decide to try the e.l.f studio line of brushes? Well, they are about $3.00 each and there was a massive sale at the time - that was good enough reason for me. In truth, I wanted to know what the fuss about fan brushes was all about. I've read good things about e.lf. and decided it was worth spending $15 on 5 face makeup brushes to see what happened. These are the ones I have:

Powder Brush



















Complexion Brush


















Kabuki Brush













Blush Brush


















Fan Brush



















I have to say, some of these brushes made me a bit of a convert - at least for the quality and performance of e.l.f. studio brushes. The bristles are surprisingly soft and they definitely do a great job of blending. I also like how dense the bristles are and how well they are "packed" into the handle of the brush (I don't find this with my Ecotools brush, and find it harder to control).

The fan brush probably isn't the same quality as high-end brushes in terms of use, but I do see the difference in using this versus a regular powder or blush brush, especially for certain blushes. The look of NARS Taos blush (a very bright and pigmented blush) is definitely more natural with a fan brush versus any other kind of brush. In fact, the only brush I'm not terribly impressed with in this bunch is the blush brush, so I'm glad that I have this as well. The blush brush is rather small and narrow, and I think it works better for more natural and/or contouring blushes/bronzers/powders. I like using either this or the powder brush with more neutral blushes like NARS Lovejoy since they give more definition and can pack on more color.

I use the Kabuki brush all the time (more than my Posh kabuki) for both face powder and even blush. Since it's the biggest brush, I prefer it to the powder brush. I actually use the powder brush or complexion brush more for blending (i.e., when I'm wearing more makeup, which is rare). The complexion brush is rather neat for for this since it has a flat top - kind of cool. Makes you feel like you have some specially-designed, expensive brush that you can find creative uses for when otherwise, you would never think to use such a thing.

Overall, I'm happy enough with these brushes to get rid of the others, but I keep the Eco-Tools because it's still good quality, and the Posh retractable kabuki is good for the handbag. If you'd like to have some good brushes on hand, don't want to spend a lot of money, and don't wear too much makeup anyway, the e.l.f studio line is definitely the way to go.

Sephora Mattifying Powder Foundation

Recall how just yesterday I wrote that I have not blogged much this year due to reduced makeup experimentation? Apparently I'm a pathological liar, because that wasn't true either. Writing about Korres Abyssinia Voluminizing Mascara opened the floodgates that have been blocking my makeup stories all year. I would say that the biggest difference between two years ago and now is that my makeup trials are a little more focused and my collection rather well-edited. Oh, the dangers of satisfaction! It induces a non-blogging state of mind when there is actually lots to share.

Face powder is one of them. In case you haven't been able to tell, I'm rather inconsistent with my makeup use, and face makeup is no exception. I've looked for the right powders, foundations, concealers, and tinted moisturizers only to realize how infrequently I use them. That said, I still try to nail down some basics for myself. This past winter, I found a few products that suited me so well that I haven't had to throw them out and have not replaced them with anything else. The Sephora Collection Mattifying Powder Foundation is such a product.

Reason #1 - The color match. In my opinion, Sephora does a great job with shades for tan skin, ranging from olive/yellow complexions to more red/brown undertones. Even more high-end brands haven't achieved this. I have D32 (warm golden beige) for winter when my skin is paler, and it is perfect for my medium-tan (and rather yellow) Indian complexion. The Mineral Double Compact Foundation has a similar but slightly smaller range (for instance, it has D35-warm tan, but no D32). I tested it in the store but I find any sort of mineral makeup to be messy (even pressed powders) and it doesn't have my regular D32 shade (D35 is best only for summer).

Reason #2 - It meets my pretty basic expectations of a good pressed powder/foundation - mostly medium/sheer coverage, some oil control, and a polished look that isn't cakey or obvious. On bare skin, it's oil-controlling and non-drying, not even in winter (which is when I first started using this). I'm not sure how "mattifying" this would be for oilier skin since my skin has become drier over time but I imagine that someone with very oily skin is using some other oil-control product as well, so this would probably help things a long enough. I've worn this powder over foundation and/or concealer and it sets both well. Depending on my mood, I use either a big, fluffy powder/kabuki brush, or a round sponge (bought separately, not the one that comes with the compact).

Reason #3 - Blends easily and I can barely feel it. Very smooth, fine-milled formula that doesn't highlight any blemishes or imperfections by caking over them. Supposedly, this works dry or wet, but I prefer dry for now. Very simple application and worth the minimal effort.

In terms of price, a great compromise between over-priced high-end products, and also over-priced drugstore products (think of the similar new product from Neutrogena which retails for about $15; the Sephora one is $20). I would stock up since earlier this fall, they were sold out of D35 (warm tan - my summer shade) for MONTHS (not just at stores, but from the manufacturer itself).

I do have one complaint about the compact, but it applies to many products of a similar design that are out there these days (my LORAC Blush/Bronzer duo is one of them). This flip-top compact has a compartment under the powder tray for a sponge and mirror. I know companies started doing this because it was supposedly more hygienic. Eh, hygiene-shmygiene (says the Master's of Public Health candidate). The design is inconvenient and bulky, and I would have preferred it if Sephora didn't bother to keep up with luxury brands in that respect. Plus, the price would have been a little cheaper, although the $20 is probably about the cheapest you will find with this quality.

I wore this today and happy to report that my face feels, well, nice. It's Friday and my skin doesn't look pathetic - I'd say that's a pretty good start to the weekend and a pretty good reason to continue using this perfect powder.

These Are a Few of My Favorite Sephora Things

Most people (and bloggers) I know are not a fan of the Sephora brand of cosmetics. While I've experienced a few duds myself, there are a few products which suit me particularly well, and others that are a steal for the quality and price.

Like with many a "wheatish"-complexioned girl, it's often difficult for me to find the right shade of poweder, foundation, and concealer (although I never actually wear all 3 at once - just like to have them all in my makeup inventory!). So I was astonished to find a perfect foundation color match and formula in Sephora Brand Balancing Liquid Foundation, SPF 15. This product must not be a best-seller because it is constantly on sale at Sephora from $20 to $6 (like now, but only for a few shades online). But for some reason, it works for me. I can barely feel the light, non-greasy formula and because the shade is perfect, I actually get good coverage from it without a cakey effect. Another face makeup surprise from Sephora is the Light Touch Highlighter ($12), which looks to be a more affordable version of the famed Touche Eclat from Yves Saint Laurent. I have this in 05-Golden Beige, and again, the shade is a great match. What good is a concealer/highlighter that doesn't actually match your skin? So while this product may not actually be the best of its kind out there, it does have potential if you find a good match.

Another great new product from Sephora is the Nano Eyeliner ($5). Like the Prestige Total Intensity pencil I reviewed earlier, these pencils are extremely well-pigmented and smooth upon application. I especially love how there are 3 types of brown in the collection - Glitter Brown, Chocolate Brown, and Coffee. I'm a strong believer in dark brown eyeliners, and was glad to see a variety showcased in this collection, along with some great purples. These are a great alternative to the Make Up For Ever Aqua Eyes and the Urban Decay 24/7 eyeliners.

So if you are ever overwhelmed at Sephora with a thin wallet, and the drugstore is too far away, the Sephora brand might be your only escape.

More from Jane

I thought it would be quite impossible to be more impressed by drugstore brand Jane Cosmetics' wonderfully inexpensive and quality products after trying out their new organic line. But Jane continues to surprise me. Here a couple of recent discoveries:

Staying Powder Loose Powder (Colorless) - I'd always wondered what the hype surrounding translucent/colorless face powder was. Is it really colorless? Is there hope of it providing any coverage? Will it really control oil/shine? Apparently, yes! Perhaps not to the degree you might expect from more heavy-duty products, but still worth it. Would I buy a translucent powder from an expensive Sephora brand? Probably not. But from Jane, it's just right. I decided to try out this makeup mystery with Jane's inexpensive version, and am happy to have this basic little jar on hand. The powder is light and non-irritating, and does control shine, although it definitely is not a long-wearing product. There are days when my skin looks like a patchwork of different shades and tones, and the last thing I want to do is add another. A light dusting of some colorless powder, however, gives your face a little polish without feeling heavy in the least, especially as the weather warms up. I find it easier to blend than my pressed powder from Clinique, and it works well for in-between seasons when you're not quite as pale as you were in December but the sun still hasn't warmed you up enough. Under $5.00, and worth a try if you haven't used a loose face powder before.

Be Pure Mineral One Liner (Ink Mica) - Alas, if you read my post about purple eyeliner from earlier today, you won't be surprised that I have also located the Perfect Blue. Like with everything-eyeliner, I have had issues with finding the right blue. I like sort of dusty-musty-inky blues that border on slate/gray, but are still pigmented enough to show up on my skin. Ink Mica is just that (the swatch on the Jane site does not do it justice). It beats out most of the blues and blue/grays from MAC (which has about as many liner shades as you can imagine), and reminds me of the discounted Slate pencil from Prescriptives. This is a mechanical pencil, which is nice because it allows you to create a thinner line. It also has a smudger on one end - again, amazing for the price of about 3 bucks. Goes on smoothly, and won't create a mess. What more could you ask for? Ah, yes, the Perfect Purple, but that's already been taken care of!

LORAC Blush/Bronzer Duo - Hot & Spicy

I didn't realize how bored I had become with my makeup lately, until I discovered the *amazing* LORAC Blush/Bronzer Duo (Hot & Spicy). I'm not a blush or bronzer junkie, but was on the search for ones that I could feel comfortable wearing in any setting. I tried this on a whim and have used it almost everyday ever since. In fact, I was salivating over it within 48 hours of use, but held off writing about it for a while because of my fickle makeup ways. After a week, I think I'm finally ready to articulate an intelligent review.

Only I can't - because this blush/bronzer is awesome! It's so easy to use! It lasts! I love the colors! It's so versatile! I love the finish! I carry it in my bag and actually touch it up! It's pretty to look at! I think it makes me look prettier! It can look natural! It can look dramatic! It's everything you could possibly want in a blush/bronzer! Sound like I'm exaggerating? I'm really not! I really, truly, genuinely like this product and am not considering returning it. I swear. In fact, I want to buy another to keep at home.

Both the deep pink/peach blush and medium bronzer work well on my medium-tan complexion to warm it up. The blush gives a natural flush that is neither too pink/plum, nor too orange, and the bronzer is neither too matte nor too sparkly. Additionally, the bronzer shade is perfect for skin tones like mine - some bronzers tend to make it look "dirty" or simply way too dark. Not to mention how soft and blendable this is - makes it a breeze to use, but yes, heavy hands beware. If you happen to use too much, you can always blend some away. There is some shimmer factor which isn't cheap or too noticeable, and if you touch your face too much, there can be some sparklage and shimmer fallout - but really, nothing to be too concerned about, especially compared to other products which seem to have a jar of glitter in them.

This is far superior to the NARS Orgasm/Laguna duo in quality, and far more versatile for various complexions. And it comes with a cute brush - when was the last time that happened with a high-end product? I only wish that the compact were slimmer and sleeker. Best of all, it has pretty good staying power - lasts about 6-8 hours unless you're running the marathon (in which case, don't wear makeup!). After a light touch up, it fades away nicely into that just-warmed-by-fading-make-up look. I actually like going a teeny bit overboard with this for a deeper flush.

2 minor downsides - the somewhat clunky (if also somewhat classic) compact - it's like MAC 's Studio Fix powders, round with a compartment beneath for the brush. A bit thick to carry around, but one can deal. Also, the powder is so fine that some of it ends up on the mirror - clearly no need to dig your brush into the pan.

$28.50 @ Sephora. Looking forward to my touch up!

A Prime Primer - Tarte Clean Slate Face Primer

Too bad this simple product is meant to be worn UNDER makeup to smooth out the skin and make makeup last longer. In my book, this alone would suffice (especially in warmer weather). I haven't ever felt the need to try a face primer although I did wonder what all the hype was about. So I was pleased to receive a sample of Tarte Clean Slate Face Primer with a Sephora purchase, and was even more pleased by the results.

The best way to describe Clean Slate (and I'm guessing other primers) is a dry gel. So, picture a clear gel like you might have used on your hair back in the day - I'm sure you'll recall the wet, slippery texture. Primer, on the other hand, feels a little heavier and actually looks matte. As soon as you start rubbing it into the skin it just dries away into a slightly matte finish onto the skin, completely dry to the touch. No wet residue, no greasiness, no shine - just a light absorpotion of some skin oil and otherwise, just you and your skin. I loved how this didn't feel like sticky goop and how it disappeared on contact. On my skin, it was good for some shine-control, evenness, and a smoother texture. And this is all with a drop or two! No other makeup had even made it to a brush or sponge yet.

Another plus for Clean Slate is that it falls into the "natural" category of cosmetics since it contains no parabens, phthalates, synethetic dyes/fragrances, sulfates, petro-chemicals. Another comparable primer might be Korres Face Primer (which is a silicone-free formula - not sure if Clean Slate has silicone or not) if you're interested in natural, chemical-free products.

However, there are a couple of reasons due to which paying almost $30 may not be worth it for me, even though I think it's a great a product. 1) I'm suspicious of any face makeup due to my generally irritable and sensitive skin; 2) I don't wear face makeup daily and when I do, I still don't wear enough to need primer and am also not concerned about long-wear; 3) I'm fairly young and my skin is in decent shape.

I would like to experiment with some less expensive primers (I've been eye'ing a Revlon Beyond Natural version), but then of course, I would probably be compromising on quality anyway. But during the summer weather (which doesn't seem to be arriving soon anyway), even face powder or a tinted moisturizer may not cut it, in which case, Tarte it will be.

Tinted Moisturizer Trials #2 & #3: Clinique Almost Makeup vs. Jane Be Pure Aguaceuticals

Experiments just keep falling into my lap lately, especially when it comes to tinted moisturizers. Here are my latest findings:

Trial #2: Clinique Almost Makeup, SPF 15 - I really wanted to like this more because it was about 20 bucks. Sadly, it could not nudge my Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer off the counter. Clinique has 2 products that are comparable to a regular tinted moisturizer - the Almost Makeup SPF 15 foundation, and the Moisture Sheer Tint SPF 15 (which I plan to try as well). So while its not exactly a tinted moisturizer, if you're interested in trying something with a little bit more coverage, this would be a good alternative. But not for me, for the simple reason that the shade match was not great. I tried Deep, which is surprisingly the darkest shade Clinique offers in this range of 6 shades. I have the LM moisturizer in Fawn, which is actually number 4 in a range of 7 shades. So it is not surprising that the Clinique didn't match well with my skin. It also had a more matte, "makeup-y" finish which definitely didn't feel like "almost makeup" to me. I prefer the more natural glow and soft finish of the LM. This one was a no-go for me.

Trial #3: Jane Be Pure Aguaceuticals Sheer Tinted Moisturizer, SPF 30. Did I dare try a drugstore tinted moisturizer other than the snobby Neutrogena? You bet. I saw the clean and simple packaging, of this new "organic beauty" line from Jane Cosmetics (read about it here) and was immediately ensnared by phrases like "paraben-free" - not to mention a buy-one-get-one-free sale. Haha. But no, really, I was intrigued by the new line and since it is a drugstore cult favorite, I had to try it. Hey, we're in a recession - good drugstore finds will be a blessing for many downgrading from Sephora.

This is a great product and completely delivers - and not just for a product that is under $10. I found it to be better than Neutrogena's in many respects - it is slightly creamier, feels more like a moisturizer, and is more comparable to the LM. It also does a better job of smoothing out the skin a bit before applying any other makeup. In fact, it is everything I thought Clinique Almost Makeup would be. Better for colder, drier weather and in smaller portions as a foundation. Color match is somewhere between Neutrogena & LM's. Additionally, it has a higher SPF than Clinique Almost Makeup (Neutrogena & LM are both also SPF 30). There are 4 color options, but the darkest one (Medium-Tan) worked well for me - highly recommend this!

Tinted Moisturizer Trial #1: Neutrogena Healthy Skin Glow Sheer SPF 30

I recently discovered Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer and pretty much think it's a wonderful product. However, contrary to popular belief, and unlike most product junkies, I'm rather careful about abusing my wallet. At $42.00 for a 1.7 oz tube, I'm not sure how practical the LM Tinted Moisturizer is for me. Out of sheer laziness or perhaps a fear of running out and having to replace, I haven't actually used it very much. So I'm considering some less expensive alternatives and hope to exchange the LM for something more long-lasting and luxurious - perhaps a nice perfume for myself for Valentine's day since I'm spending it with my grandmother (yes - don't even bother asking).

Alternative #1 is Neutrogena Health Skin Glow Sheer (SPF 30) in Medium to Tan. This friendly little 1.1 oz tube is about $12.00 - pricey for a drugstore product but nowhere near $42.00. Compared to the LM, it has slightly less coverage and a stronger sunscreen scent. If you're looking for slightly more coverage, this probably isn't the best choice for you. In my case, the Neutrogena also gave the perfect base for a light dusting of powder. It's neither greasy nor drying, and doesn't flake in my usual problem areas.

I may be imagining it, but the LM seemed to have a "dewier" finish and slightly creamier formula than the Neutrogena, so I'm a little worried that the Neutrogena could end up drying my skin out in brutal Northeastern weather. I discovered after reading some other reviews that this could be due to the fact that the LM has mineral oil, while Neutrogena's is completely oil free. It might help to add a couple of drops of moisturizer to it if necessary.

This comes in about 6 different shades, which includes 1 bronzer (which I might pick up in the future), so I was skeptical about finding the right one for my skin tone. I lucked out and Medium to Tan is perfect. It helps that the formula is so sheer and can blend in easily.

I'm pretty impressed with this product, especially considering that I loathe buying face makeup from the drugstore. If you don't wear a lot of makeup but would like a little polish to your face, this is a a worthy alternative to more expensive and celebrated brands. And for half the price of 1 LM tinted moisturizer, you can get 2 - 1 for home, 1 for your makeup bag! :) Will keep you posted if there are any changes in opinion. Stay tuned for Trial #2 - it will mostly likely be Clinique Almost Makeup.

Revisionist

Clearly, I am one when it comes to makeup. Since you're probably not surprised that I'm going a bit back on my word about some things, I'll just get right to it:

Lip
I'm no longer in possession of Laura Mercier lipsticks in Fresh Brown and Amaretto, or ck Calvin Klein's Glory lip gloss. After some soul-searching, bathroom cleaning, and others' input, I made myself return these. Since my lip color choices are usually neutral and safe, there was just no justification for the space these were occupying. Fresh Brown was replaced by Maybelline's Moisture Extreme Lipstick in Sugared Bronze, and I'm just as happy with it. I kept the ck Calvin Klein Pastel Gold lip gloss because it is a color and type I just don't have. My only other "good" gloss right now is a reddish bronze from MAC, and this is a good complement for a balanced and reliable, if tiny, selection. I'll splurge on a good lipstick for an awesome, hard-to-find color, not a neutral.

Face
There is a Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer sitting in my bathroom counter, and so far, so good! It makes my face look more even and polished without feeling like makeup. As a moisturizer it leaves a soft glow, and is only slightly drying in already existing problem areas. Completely worth the money in most ways, but I have a nagging feeling that I can find something similar and less expensive. Suggestions are welcome.

There is also a beautiful Nars Bronzer/Blush duo (Orgasm/Laguna)alongside the tinted moisturizer, and it makes me so happy just to look at it. It is one of my more substantial buys yet, and I'm proud of it. This duo gives just the right amount color to my face, and with a little work I think I might get the contouring down, too. It's a foolproof addition to anyone's makeup routine, and while I'm still going to give it some time just to be sure, this one will probably be a keeper.

Eyes
I have similar feelings about Smashbox eye shadow Trio in Smashbox.com. This trio consists of some basic neutrals - a pale but brightening yellow, a soft shell-pink, and a dark, matte brown. The quality of these shadows is wonderful (extremely soft and blendable), and any issues I'm having are more about technique than the product itself. I particularly love the yellow for the inner corner of the eye and on the brow. But my It's-so-basic-there-must-be-a-cheaper-version-out-there moment did force me to peruse the drugstore aisle to no avail. I might just stick with this one to make life easier.

All of these have been much less tricky to use than some of the other supposedly fantabulous things I have bought, and are much more effective - who could ask for more?

Fall/Winter Makeup Update

Wow, is it almost December already? Scary thought. I can't believe my evolution is - still evolving. The time is flying so fast, I really do forget how many days go by without detailing my current makeup trials and tribulations.

Given that I was still somewhat of a newbie when I first started blogging about them and the current fall/winter season, I thought it was time to update you on what has become near and dear to me.

On a daily basis, I've been using my L'Oreal liquid eyeliner in Defined by Plum, Cover Girl TruShine Lipcolor in Chocolate Shine, and the love of my life, Almay's Amazing Eye Liner in Black Brown. Blush enters in somewhat of a variety show, but big stars have been NYX Blush in Pecan and L'Oreal's TruBlend Blush in Subtle Sable.

Other products I continue to use regularly and which serve me well (both makeup and skincare):

Clinique Almost Powder (SPF 15) in Deep
Clinique Line-Smoothing Concealer in Deep Honey
NYX Eye Shadow Trio - Guru
The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil Blemish Stick (a real life-saver)
Burt's Bees Soap Bark & Chamomile Deep Cleansing Cream
Phisoderm Gel Clarifying Moisturizer
Nivea Lip Care
MAC Lipstick in Polished Up combined w/ Milani Lip Gloss in Taboo

The cooler weather and much clearer skin (thank you, Tretinoin) have been helping things along quite a bit, and I'm grateful. Fall/winter are definitely favorable makeup evolution seasons - too bad I started this over the summer. You live, you learn.

NARS Super Orgasmic Blush

For those of you who have mastered the Orgasm, rejoice. Now we have Super Orgasm.

I'm speaking of NARS blushes, of course. As much as I love NARS, I'm quite skeptical of what will surely be it's latest over-hyped blush. Maybe I’m bitter because Orgasm has never suited me. But then, I have a pretty universal skin tone so I can imagine that there are many people that it doesn’t work for.

Super Orgasm is also been described by NARS as a universally-flattering peachy pink with golden glitter. Shudder. I know glittery makeup doesn’t necessarily mean you will look like a Vegas show girl, but if this is supposed to be The Blush for darker skin tones, then adding golden glitter doesn’t make it so. I have a feeling this may be a less golden pink but more sparkly version of my beloved CG Cheekers Blush in Golden Pink.

Super Orgasm may be worth a try. My never-ending Sephora credit practically demands it. $25.00 only @ Sephora

On Indian Beauty

Do you want this woman giving you beauty advice? To be fair, the woman pictured on the left has been called the Helena Rubinstein of India - mighty impressive if you ask me. She is Shahnaz Husain, Indian beauty entrepreneur whose Ayurvedic products reach the likes of yours truly from New Delhi to New York. Read about her empire in "Indian Beauty" from the Wall Street Journal.

I myself am a total sucker for "natural" skincare and beauty products, particularly if they are from reputable Indian brands, including Shahnaz Husain, Biotique, and Himalaya Herbal Healthcare. When it comes to Shahnaz, I've had pretty good experiences with the line's kajal eyeliner, moisturizer, and an occasional face "pack" or two. Don't know how I feel about the company's philosophy or business aspirations, but wouldn't it be funny if this was the face behind the latest addition to Sephora, QVC, or Whole Foods?

On a more serious note, I do think it would be a refreshing addition, and would be thrilled to find such products at popular stores rather than hunting them down in Little India or Jackson Heights in NY. Can't say the prices would be so pleasing, but let's see what happens.

Here's to Husain's rosy aspirations...

Much Ado About Clinique & Such

Being that I was born the day I wrote about my Clinique concealer, it's not surprising that I've rediscovered the entire brand. Actually, discovered is more like it. Clinique has always seemed too old-school and basic to me, and I've really bothered with it.

That's right - I've never owned a Clinique skincare or cosmetic product. Once in high school I experimented with the Facial Cleansing Bar and Dramatically Different Moisturizer and hated it. I currently have the gel version of the same moisturizer and feel the same way. I love the 2 lipsticks I have though (Chocolate Ice & Rum Raisin)!

My first real makeup purchases were either from the drugstore, MAC, BeneFit, Prescriptives, or similar, newer lines that didn't exist when my sister was in high school (yeah, that's kind of how I define such things...).

When the sweet sales assistant at the Clinique counter matched me for concealer and the Almost Powder Spf 15, I experimented with its eye shadows, and was so impressed. While I haven't yet found the right shade, there were more than enough options. The few that I did test had an excellent finish - sort of shimmery but not sparkly, pigmented, but not too much, wearable for work but not completely boring either (Gold Rush and Sienna Glaze).

I mentioned to her that I was less and less satisfied with MAC lately (returned Starflashes and contemplating getting rid of Bronze shadow) and she explained the most basic thing to me - certain lines are for certain kinds of makeup and wear, and few of the ones I've been exploring would thus have what I'm looking for. Light bulb moment. Clinique may not have the best shades for my skin tone, but it will be worth exploring brands that carry the lighter, more natural, everyday makeup I'm looking for.

So in addition to the concealer in Deep Honey, I also go the Almost Powder in Deep. It was perfect in the store and has been reasonably good the last few days - no drying, good color match, made my skin feel smooth afterwards. This morning, I had one of those Makeup Alley moments that I loathe reading about - the color seemed to magically change on my face!

Ok, ok, I'm sure it had something to do with the awful condition of my skin when I applied it...I had just walked across Central Park in oh, about 80 degree weather. My face was ruddy, sweaty, and irritated. In an attempt to correct the situation, I brushed some powder on and - ew. It went on an ashy, muddy taupe that looked nothing like my skin.

I hope this doesn't happen again, otherwise I might considering taking this back to the store. In general though, I'm pretty happy with this powder - it's one of the many staples I didn't really have (L'Oreal was temporary) but need. $22.50 @ Sephora

Things I've Been Reaching For Lately

This is a quasi follow-up to my previous list of products I've been consistently using (check it out here).

Since then, I've become mentally exhausted by many a thing for no good reason, and so I've been reaching for the bare basics in the mornings, if anything at all (those marked by an asterisk are products I don't necessary use - only if I'm in the mood). These include, in some combination or another:

*1) NYX Blush in Pecan or Rimmel Blush in Berry
2) L'Oreal FeatherLash Mascara in Black
*3) MAC Bronze eye shadow or NYX trio palette in Guru
4) The Body Shop Cranberry Shimmer Lip Balm
*5) Jordana Easy Liner in Eggplant

And that's about all - for no more than $15 might I add. I've nixed the face powder since my skin has cleared up a bit.

For some reason, I feel more comfortable with this list than my last one. My makeup bag is definitely lighter, and I never feel the least bit done or not like myself. Although the other day, after touching up with some Pecan, my friend noticed and said "nice makeup!"

I'm not sure how I feel about this - the point is sort of not to look done, and yet, of course it will be noticeable when I'm wearing something since I normally don't. At the same time, there's no point in wearing so little that is completely indiscernible and you don't look any better!

I'm toying with the idea of adding an additional product - or replacing about 4 of the above with it. You will hear about it very soon...

NYX Love

I've heard so much about NYX products and have unfortunately, never tried any. Once, I found a huge display of their products in a Canadian store - I loved the texture of the eye shadows, but never bought any. San has love for an NYX blush (read about it here) and I've been itching to explore this line.

NYX is notoriously hard to find. I've been in drugstores where there is a single, lonely NYX product lying around without a price tag or display. So when San whipped out a cool NYX eye pencil the other day and told me where I could find it, I was happy to check it out and purchase some great products from the line. I bought a Jumbo Eye Pencil in French Fries, Powder Blush in Pecan, and Trio Eye Shadow palette in Guru.

French Fries is a chubby-wubby, friendly, creamy pencil in a basic bronze shade. This didn't show up spectacularly on my lids, but it was great for the inner corner of my eyes and would be more visible with some primer or a base. This was so easy to work with - the color stayed put and wasn't too creamy/smudgy. A little difficult to blend but the pencil allows you achieve whatever level of precision you prefer very easily.

Guru includes 3 warm, sheer neutrals (pink champagne, light bronze, and light, coppery pink) that were neither matte nor too shimmery. Great shades for work and daily wear if you just want to brighten your eyes up a bit, and a smooth, blendable texture that is on par with higher-end products. Pure loveliness. I wish there had been more trios available as these are a just tad too light for me (but still very usable and versatile) - after checking them out on the website, I'd like to try TS24 (shimmer, peach, copper) and many others.


Now the show-stopper. Pecan. What a blush. I know I've proven to be very fickle in my tastes but I really do love Pecan. It solves many of my recent Blush Issues. I was finding some to be too pink to wear comfortably all the time, especially on bad-skin days, but didn't like the blush/bronzer duos I've come across and couldn't commit to more expensive ones like Cargo's Beach Blush. I layered some blushes with my L'Oreal HiP bronzer but using 2 products is just annoying and I don't love that bronzer due to its shimmer factor.

I should mention that I've also generally been interested in trying bronzer. Granted, I didn't explore much because I felt that bronzer for my skin tone would be a bit difficult to find. Additionally, my skin is perfectly warm enough for me - I wasn't sure if bronzer would make it or break it. I wanted something that would complement it without too much color or muddiness.

Pecan is the answer! It looks like a very dark, coppery brown, bronzer in the pan but goes on like some wonderful new interpretation of "brick" blush. It is a slightly ruddy brown that creates a warm flush and hints at cheekbones (plenty of cheek here, little bone). This particular blush has an extremely fine, gold shimmer that is barely noticeable once applied but of course, enhances the overall effect.

I'm so satisfied and impressed - for just under $16.00 total and this level of quality, how could you not be? Jumbo Eye Pencil, $2.99; Powder Blush, $5.99; Trio Eye Shadow, $6.99 @ Select drugstores or NYXcosmetics.com

Jane Shimmer Bronzer

This is one of the random products that has been sitting in my drawer since the pre-blog era. I can't remember what appealed to me about it and why I made the purchase. Thoughts were swimming around in my head way before I decided to express them here, and this was my original attempt at finding a good blush/bronzer.

I'm overall impressed with Jane Cosmetics, but this one - not so much. I have the Shimmer Bronzer in Tahiti which has a checkered mix of deep, warm brown/berry shades and some lighter, silvery peachy-pinks and lilacs. It was the only color combination that didn't have cool, neutral, brown shades and I thought some of the warmer berry tones would work on my skin.

I'm not too find of these "mosaic" products. The colors never seem to work well together to give a defining shade/finish. Tahiti leaves a slightly berry-toned, silvery, shimmery wash over my cheeks. There isn't much color payoff at all and there is 0 bronzing effect due to the coolness of the lighter shades. Instead of a "luminous glow," I achieved a sort of Stardusty, Caspar/fairy-like, just-fell-off the moon shimmer that doesn't suit my skin tone. Sorry, I know that's a weird description but my imagination is a little wild this morning.

But this is not to say that I won't use Tahiti occasionally, mostly for evening (who knows what I mean by evening - of late, my "evenings" consist of apartment hunting, tea, some dinner, and perhaps TV). The silver shimmer could work with other understated makeup and perhaps a more monochromatic look with similar tones/shades.

For the price, this is also a great value, as with all Jane Cosmetics. The compact is large and sturdy, with a hidden compartment underneath that contains a small brush (useless of course), but no mirror. It's similar to the regular shimmer blushes, but this one is bronze colored whereas the others are black.

While I wasn't completely thrilled with this, I will definitely give the regular blushes a try, even though those also have those annoying strips of color. I have yet to detect a shade from the regular blush line that might work - Sania's review of the Blushing Cheeks in Plum, however, is encouraging. If the shimmer blushes also don't impress, I might have to give in and give Cargo's Beach Blushes a try. $5.99 @ Drugstore.com (on sale right now for $4.19!)

Powder Preference - L'Oreal vs. MAC

Another reason why I like L'Oreal. It convinced me to return a new MAC powder I bought.

I've never been able to settle on a pressed powder I like for two reasons - 1) I don't have great skin and avoid using face makeup/cover-up on it 2) I have never had enough of a makeup routine to warrant using a good pressed powder everyday.

Recently, being 25.5 years old and still evolving, I've been more diligent about using face powder, especially since I do have oily skin. I lost my MAC Studio Fix pressed powder a while ago, and had bought the L'Oreal True Match Super Blendable Powder (W4) to temporarily replace it. It worked fine, but I was hoping to go back to a more high-end product.

At MAC, I asked for something with more sheer coverage than the Studio Fix since I had never been particularly happy with it anyway. I ended up with the Select Sheer/Pressed Powder (NW25), which the makeup artist selected and matched to my face with 2 questions and a light dusting that lasted all of 45 seconds.

When I brought it home, I realized how much lighter in the pan it appeared compared to my L'Oreal, although they both looked the same on my skin. The L'Oreal shade was definitely truer to my actual skin tone. The MAC powder also made my face feel a bit dry, whereas I can barely feel the L'Oreal one. Back to the store went the MAC.

I hadn't realized what a good match the L'Oreal powder was, and what a reasonable job it was doing, especially considering the price. For my skin tone especially, I think it might actually offer a better selection of shades that work. Also, the L'Oreal powder has a separate compartment for the sponge, while MAC's does not - interesting, since the Studio Fix did.

Continously impressed by this brand. In the future, will avoid MAC when it comes to high-end and will try Clinique or Prescriptives instead. L'Oreal True Match Super Blendable Powder, $10.95 @ Drugstore.com; MAC Select Sheer/Pressed Powder, $21.00 @ MAC

Jane Eye-Zing in Hazelnut - Blush Zing?

I've mentioned before how much I like this eyeshadow from Jane, but the truth is, I don't actually use it very often. Alas, this is the case with most of my makeup. Even though I've been working more with the blush lately, it's decidedly a much more delicate process in my opinion than applying anything else to the face. With the exception, of course, of eyeliner, which I've given up on altogether lately.

Poor great shadow with nowhere to go but the depths of my top drawer. I felt bad for it. So I retrieved little Hazel the other day to see how it would work with some of my other shadows.

Hazel was looking pinker and crisper in the pot than usual, when it dawned on me that perhaps it would make a good blush. Out came it my Eco-tools blush brush, and I went to work.

My hunch was correct. Hazel gave a a very subtle, slightly rosy/coppery sheen that was actually much more "sun-kissed" looking than any blush I've recently tried. I've previously described this shade as a bellini-like soft tan/peach/copper with very subtle shimmer.

Again, the effect was similar to one I tried to create with my also pitiful L'Oreal HiP bronzer and other blushes. This didn't actually look like either blush or bronzer, but my cheeks definitely had a different glow and some color to them in a way that I really, really liked - some interesting cross between what I always thought an Orgasm for darker skin SHOULD look like. Taos fits that bill as well, but it is definitely HIGHLY pigmented and very, very rosy. This would probably work even better on slightly lighter skin tones.

I'm sure there is a blush shade or formula out there that will match what Hazel did. I'll definitely be on the lookout, and maybe even take this to a store or two to compare. I have to say though, it was surprisingly easy to use a blush brush in this little shadow pot, so maybe I'll continue that method until I get over it.

$3.59 @ Walgreen's and other drugstores