The Neverending Skin Story II

I thought I had it all figured out when I talked about products for the late-20-something in Skin Story last year, but alas, all is never well in the beauty/skincare world. Since then, I have changed up my skincare routine considerably. I've never been one to use too many products but for the last 6 to 8 months, I've found a couple of products/techniques that have kept my face remarkably clearer than usual. The essentials of what has been working for me thus far:

1) My Non-Cleansing Cleansing - My hands-off approach to cleansing still involves a few products, but I don't use them regularly and because I don't wear much makeup on a daily basis, I can get away with it. In the cleanser rotation, I have 4 very gentle products:

- Pure jojoba oil (Desert Essences brand) - To gently cleanse (Oil Cleansing Method) every couple of weeks. Also use to remove eyeliner or mascara.
- St. Ive's Apricot Scrub - To exfoliate once a week (no more).
- Burt's Bees Soap Bark and Chamomile Cleansing Cream - To use once in a while or about once a week because it feels refreshing and soothing, especially during summer. This made it onto my list of Things I Bought That I Continue To Love.
- Avene Soap-Free Emollient Cleansing Bar - Use about 1-2 times a week just for gentle cleansing.

With minimal use, these 4 work for me namely because they cleanse and exfoliate gently. If I had to pare this down, it would be the Avene cleansing bar and the St. Ive's scrub.

2) My Special Pomegranate Green Tea Non-Toner Toner - I think used an astringent when I was like 14, and last year, I discovered Dickenson's witch hazel. I don't even bother with that anymore, because I still find it drying. Instead, I brewed 2 parts Bigelow Green Tea (Pomegranate flavor, and widely available), mixed it 1 part rose water (Dabur, an Indian brand but also widely available), and put it in an empty squirt bottle from the drugstore. Voila, instant "toner." I don't use this every time I wash my face, but it removes any makeup if I've been wearing more than usual and it is a refreshing and quick pick-me-up for your face. Plus, it is completely natural and cost me practically nothing.

3) Moisturizer - Day or night, it is no-frills Nivea Soft moisturizer for me. This tub is sort of the younger woman's Pond's Cold Cream, and a much lighter version of both that and the original, blue-tin Nivea cream. Nivea Soft is non-greasy but completely moisturizing, and I use it day and night. I have no problems with it. The soft, whipped texture might be comparable to Pond's Extra Dry Skin Cold Cream (although far less greasy) and the First Aid Beauty creams (from what I've read online).

Optional:

4) Sunscreen - I've tried a couple of SPF-moisturizers (Biore and L'Oreal) that I liked and one that didn't work for me (Eucerin), but now prefer the combination of a regular, simple moisturizer like Nivea Soft and Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock-SPF 55. This is largely because the Neutrogena is a great value - higher SPF, great formula, and better performance than the standard SPF-moisturizer.

I had searched high and low for a good SPF-moisturizer that is also a good value, but at nearly $16 for a small amount (1.5 oz), the Biore didn't seem worth it, and the L'Oreal is only SPF 15 (not a major fault, but I thought I could do better). The Neutrogena is about $11 for a huge tube (3.0 oz) of SPF 55, and works just fine with a regular moisturizer or even alone. The truly non-greasy and "dry-touch" formula actually seems to make my skin smoother with an almost primer-like effect. For once, I agree with everything the tube states - "lightweight clean feel," "fast-absorbing," "leaves skin soft and smooth," "waterproof." It should also include "Leaves no embarrassing white cast." Most importantly, it really seems to work in terms of its SPF properties - if this means anything, I've been walking to and from work everyday in the relentless NYC heat, and have just a touch of warmth to my skin and not a crazy tan (sorry, I admit that I don't like getting tanned, and since it's not great for your skin anyway, I'll continue to avoid it). Love it.

Blush Up In the Club

Since I'm constantly in some sort of feminist denial of how much I love colored powders and creams, I'll begin this post with a meaningless declaration - I have never been much of a blush girl (much in the same way I've declared not to have been a mascara girl, or a liner girl, or any sort of genuine makeup girl generally). I don't know why I beat myself up like this because the truth is that on any given day (particularly a blues-y one), I'll go wherever the magical makeup lurer at Duane Reade or Sephora guides me. Recently, it was past the L'Oreal shelves, whose clean and neat-looking line of True Match products are strangely alluring.

This might have to do with the fact that I had a rather good experience with a True Match foundation in college, and that I finally got hold of Subtle Sable blush and would recommend it. Since it is a sweltering July here in New York, my makeup inclination has been to ditch some of the traditional blush shades for my medium/warm skintone and try some summery nude blushes instead. This meant avoiding pink and berry blushes for a while and going for something more neutral and understated along the lines of NARS Lovejoy (which I'm not in love with). If you want to know the truth, I was somewhat inspired by random images of Beyonce whose warm skintone had a very pretty, apricot-brown glow. It made me want to put my hands up in the club and do my own little thing with that same glow.

L'Oreal has a somewhat complicated letter/number system for matching shades to skintones, and so I largely ignore it - I just went with the highest numbers in the neutral and/or neutral-warm family, which led me to True Match blush in Soft Sun (W7-8), a slightly browned peach. It started chanting "Now put your hands up, up in the club..." I caved. I had a $5 coupon so the cheapster couldn't even object.

Best $5 I've ever spent in a drugstore (for now). This blush is deceiving - at first glance, you might think it's too light for medium/warm skintones, and you might be tempted to go with Sweet Ginger (N7-8) or Subtle Sable (W5-6) both warm, brick-pinks. But Soft Sun has its own charm and appeal. This golden apricot shade warms up my face, but never competes with some of the redness I have around my nose and cheeks from summer allergies. It almost has the effect I always thought bronzer should have, minus the muddiness and with some more color. With it's matte finish, it gives just a little bit of definition to my youthful (read: round) face with zero chalkiness. Compared to some of the brighter and darker blushes I own, it is much easier and more comfortable to wear. It reminds me of Milani's Sunset Beach blush, which is more orange and less neutral, and so doesn't have the same effect as Soft Sun.

The reason I prefer this to NARS Lovejoy as a natural/nude but still warm and forgiving blush is the texture. True to its name, the L'Oreal blush is very fine-milled, soft, blendable, and matte. Even though Soft Sun is the lightest blush I own, the pigmentation still makes an impact. Lovejoy, on the other hand, barely registers on my face. Instead of giving a natural, warm finish, it looks much like I took a few of swipes of a cakey nude blush to my cheeks. If you like Lovejoy but find Soft Sun too peachy-nude and want a little more pink, Sweet Ginger might be the next best drugstore alternative.

Now I just have to get more gloss on my lips and a man on my hips.

Rimmel Lipsticks

Have I mentioned that I'm 4 years away from 30? Because the way I'm acting lately, one would think I'm already over-the-hill. The interiors and inventory of Duane Reade seemed oh-so-important, but I failed to mention my biggest beauty find of the season. Forgive me if I have not forgiven myself. But Rimmel Lasting Finish Intense Wear lipsticks are too fabulous to have forgotten about, and I'll try to make up for it.

Where do I start? Like all junkies and perfectionists, finding the Right everything (let's not get into Mr. at the moment...) is a life's mission. I'm substantially more sane about lipstick than eyeliner, but of late, the few basics I was using just didn't seem fabulous enough for someone still 4 years away from 30. Although I have yet to find The One (again), Rimmel Lipstick in Heather Shimmer has come pretty darn close.

Heather Shimmer is a pink frost/shimmer lipstick - don't cringe. Sure, plenty of older women are into the frost bite, and it can be quite aging. Personally, some frost lipsticks have made me look like a dead ice queen. But I always found them to be the theoretical balance between matte, creme, and shine formulas. You might not think so, but this is my blog, my logic. Rest assured, I do not like an aging woman on Park Avenue shopping for clothes her daughter should be wearing instead.

Heather Shimmer is a well-balanced pink for my skin tone, and the frost/shimmer is work appropriate but not over the top. I've been wearing this lipstick day and night, and my first tube is almost down to a nub. No worries, because I have 2 more! Yes, I was that secure in my relationship with this baby to purchase a couple of others - 1 for the makeup bag, one for the handbag, one for the bathroom counter. It leaves that awesome bit of a stain, and is pretty long-wearing and moisturing. It is one of the few lipsticks that actually embraces the fullness of my lips and I might be developing an unhealthy relationship with it as I speak.

For $5 from a drugstore brand launched by the Brits, I'm extremely impressed. I also have this lipstick in Coffee Shimmer, which is a pretty brown/pink, and am considering purchasing Rhapsody, which looks like a creme version of Heather Shimmer. Any lipstick that makes me want to pucker up and kiss someone is a thumbs-up in my book.

Beauty on a Budget

Of course, this is my mantra. But luckily others are following suit. Check out Beauty on a Budget - Advice From a Stylist from the NYT a few weeks ago for some great tips on how Duane Reade really can be your best friend. Here's a summary of some of the recommended drugstore beauty and skincare products:

• CoverGirl AquaSmooth Compact Foundation
• CoverGirl Cheekers Blush
• L'Oreal Volumnious Mascara
• L'Oreal Le Grande Kohl Eyeliner pencil in Black Sable (which I raved about ages ago here)
• Revlon ColorStay 12 Hour Eye Shadow Quad
• Neutrogena MoistureShine Lip Gloss
• L'Oreal Infallible Never Fail Lip Liner
• CoverGirl TRUBlend Microminerals Finishing Veil
• Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Double Face Protector
• Neutrogena Mineral Sheers Powder Foundation
• Olay Foaming Face Wash

My 2 cents - Ann Orcutt, the stylist who made the above recommendations, might be wrong about needing to invest in high-end makeup brushes. I find the Eco-Tools and Apt. 5 lines to have pretty good brushes, and the Posh brand is comparable to the high-end ones. She also only liked Revlon eye shadows, which I completely disgaree with. In my opinion, she has definitely missed out on some of the even lower-priced drugstore finds, like Jane, Milani, Prestige and NYX (although NYX can definitely be harder to find), which have good shadow and liner selections. But of course, you only know these things when you're a drugstore junkie like me. Even the stylists have so much to learn...

Skin Story

Oh, the sad state of beauty when you are spending most of your time figuring out how to use a statistics program and understanding the electronic health record system in Britain. Huh? Don't ask. But that just about sums up my last few months.

Knowing that I looked increasingly tired and watching wrinkles form from studying and worrying, I considered what type of preventive skincare I might invest in being that I'm also 4-years-away-from-30. I felt a tad bit too young for strong anti-aging products, but I'm certainly not getting any younger. So I spent some time browsing for a day lotion and night cream appropriate for these post-college years.

This was hard. A third of all products are for the over 40 set, a third for teenagers, and a final and ambiguous third doesn't look like it can do much and makes the case for water, bar soap, and a jar of Albolene. When I sampled a few products from Sephora (Ren and Fresh), they didn't seem worth the hefty price-tag either. But after some searching, I found some really simple, straightforward products that are a bit above what I would normally use yet still gentle and mild enough for my age and purposes.

L'Oreal Dermo-Expertise Future*E Moisturizing Lotion, SPF 15 - What a surprise. This vitamin E-infused face moisturizer is the most unassuming product on drugstore shelves - even Pond's Cold Cream stands out more. In fact, I don't think I'd ever noticed it before, and chances are you haven't either. But it turned out to be perfect for daily use - it's light, non-greasy, and non-sticky, but still removes that post-shower dryness and is also a good base for makeup. It sinks in well without forming a waxy layer that contributes to greasiness during the day, and that you can feel when you wash your face later. I started using it a little over a month ago when the weather was still rather cold and dry in NY, and even with it warming up, I still like this moisturizer. I think it may be just the right moisturizer for all seasons. I appreciate that the one skincare "booster" that it has is just vitamin E (which my mother simply mixes into her Pond's - genius), and not harsh anti-aging chemicals or over-hyped and expensive antioxidants. A dose of vitamin E a day with SPF works just fine for me. ~$11.00 @ Drugstores

RoC Age Diminishing Night Cream - I wanted to go the mom way and stick to something painfully basic and classic like Pond's Cold Cream for a night cream, but unfortunately, my mom's genes have played out differently in this 26-year old self, and the stuff just won't cut it. Looking for a promising night cream proved to be an even dizzying affair. At Sephora, the night options were way out of my price range, and I don't have much experience with drugstore skincare either. When I spotted this, it looked and sounded relatively harmless - a night cream that is age "diminishing." Plus, from what I know, RoC looks slightly pharma and Frenchy, which is kind of fun and reassuring. Thankfully, I happen to enjoy using this cream and think it actually works quite well. It glides on grease-lessly, is non-irritating, and if I must sound like a commercial, I'll say my skin does feel rather smooth and nice afterwards.

There are only 2 things that sort of worried me about this cream - 1) I can feel it being washed off in the morning 2) If you look really, really, really closely, there are these microscopic particles that I think are meant to make your skin look "radiant." Not exactly necessary in a night cream, but so far, it hasn't been a problem. It supposedly has some soy-antioxident "complex" which isn't aggressively advertised on the package, something I'm grateful for and don't really care about since it seems to be doing it's job. I was scarring pretty easily over the last couple of years, and I really think using this has helped them fade. Best part - for a night cream, this is very, very reasonbly priced and completely worth it. Very satisfied, and will likely repurchase. ~$15.00 @ Drugstores

Just as a note, I like how these products don't have any fancy labeling/packaging or crazy marketing gimmicks. They seem to fall into my rather gray but surprisingly rigid beauty philosophy - what more can a girl ask for? Here's to nice complexions at any age.

Favorite Liquid Eye Liner

I promised I would report back if I dropped my Calvin Klein and other liner pens and stuck with L'Oreal Lineur Intense Felt Tip Liquid Eyeliner in Carbon Black - so I am.

This is seriously the best liquid eye liner I have ever used. It's not like most other "felt" tips - those are usually more like the pen/marker liners. This tip doesn't have a specific shape, and because it is flexible (it is a tiny nubby little thing at the end of a short wand) it lets you draw clean, thicker lines across the upper lash line or dig a little deeper into the nooks and crannies of the lashes for finer, precise definition.

I wish they had it in more colors, and a waterproof formula, for the spring/summer. Can you believe this is actually a repurchase? I can't either, but I'm happy to put my liner woes to rest.

Liner Pens

Hail liquid eyeliner, especially newer versions of the liner marker/pen. I've been sticking to this easy, defining swipe over the upper lid for a couple of months now, and found some products that help things along.

I lusted after the ck Calvin Klein Electric Edge Liquid Eye Liner Marker Pen for weeks before locating at one of 2 Sephora stores that carry it (34th St. - was sold out; the other is in Union Square). I thought it would be easier to use than it is. This nicely designed pen is really like taking a Sharpie to your lids, just with a finer tip. This sounds ideal, but turns out not to be because the tip doesn't bend/flex enough as you move along your lid. Instead, you have to draw a line with the tip on its side if you want a smoother line, which leads to a thicker line. I don't like thick lines so early in the morning. At night, they're okay. I prefer thinner for day. A good buy if you prefer this method of lining, although the cost is steep ($16) compared to these drugstore versions: new Revlon Colorstay Liquid Eye Pen ($9.00), Styli-Style Liquid Liner 24 ($2.00) and fresh Minerals ($4.00).

I'm still working with the ck pen, but may instead opt for L'Oreal Lineur Intense Liquid Eye Liner in Carbon Black. I previously reviewed the Limited Edition version in Defined by Plum, and am starting to think that overall, L'Oreal may have hit the nail on the head with this product. This is basically a wand with a soft, flexible tip - no brush, but also not a marker pen of the type described above. I had actually used up the Defined by Plum and was about to pick up the Carbon Black - picked up the wrong "black" and ended with another Limited Edition version with glitter in it. Seriously, who is still wearing such things?

Try the ck pen if you need a change but like the look of precisely applied liquid liner.

Mad Purple Disease Continues

Ah, I appear to be slowing down with my makeup evolution, huh? No worries - I'm always trying new things, they have just been a bit redundant lately. Lots of different purple and plum eye shadows, nail polishes, and a new lipstick find. I haven't had as much time to browse of late in Sephora so drugstore thrills have been the way to go. Then again, I am slightly obsessed with drugstores anyway so this really isn't out of the ordinary. Moving on....

Purple, purple everywhere! 2 shadows to try:
Maybelline Expert Eye Shadow Single in Amethyst (High Pearl finish) - This is a gorgeous new shade from Maybelline. It is a bright, blue-based purple with a slightly gauzy, neon pearl finish. I know that sounds weird, but I don't know how else to describe it. This shade would be a lot more in-your-face and pigmented if it were a high-end brand. But I found that I can wear this shade rather easily with just a few swipes over the lid. It applies smoothly and is sheer enough to layer as you like. I promise you that this can be work/day appropriate. It's a unique color that avoids giving you a blackeye but also isn't too disco-queen. Hoping to experiment more with this as a crease shade and with smudged kohl eye liner instead of the liquid I'm currently using.


L'Oreal HiP Concentrated Eye Shadow Duo in Charisma - This cute little pot features two complementary pink and purple shades. The pink is somewhat lilac/silver toned, and the royal purple has some hints of shimmer. While this seems like a very versatile combo, the shadow itself is a bit hard to apply and blend. Additionally, I find this kind of purple can quickly give way to a fake blackeye. It's definitely more of traditional crease shade for a smoky eye (which I have yet to master) so I don't find it as easy-to-use (or fun) as Maybelline's Amethyst. But worth a try if you're experimenting.

Maybelline Expert Wear Single Eye Shadow, $3.79 & L'Oreal HiP Concentrated Eye Shadow Duo, $7.00, both @ Drugstores

L'Oreal Lineur Intense Liquid Eye Liner - Defined by Plum

Finally, a purple/plum liner that lives up to its name. While this limited edition liquid eye liner from L'Oreal isn't perfect, it has temporarily satisfied my purple obsession.

First, what I like - the color. This is a deep, deep eggplant shade that is almost black - almost a liquid version of Laura Mercier's Black Violet kohl pencil. On the eyes, this gives the definition of a black liner without looking too stark against the skin. At the same time, it doesn't have the muddiness of dark brown liners. Overall, a great liner shade for olive/tan complexions.

What I don't like - the ridiculously long wand. It's literally like 4-5 inches long. I don't know when cosmetics companies will understand that this does not make application easier.

What I'm neutral on - the felt tip. It's kind of funny - very easy to use and gives a surprisingly fine line. However, it's not tapered to give that pen-like form. Just kind of strange. But hey, it works, so I'm not complaining.

This is one of the few purchases in recent makeup history that I have not returned - give it a try! $7.99 @ Drugstores

Purple Is The New Black

So proclaimed an ad in Sephora, and I wholeheartedly agree. Purple makeup is everywhere and I'm loving it. From smoky eggplants to neon purples, there are simply too many variations to resist, no matter what your personal preferences. Plus, they look good on most skin tones. If you're not into purple makeup, it's showing up in everything from shoes to bags.

Purple can be a hard tricky color to work with, no matter what the shade - after all, you don't want to look like someone just punched you in the face. An Indian's Makeup Blog has some great tutorials on purple makeup. My personal recommendation is to go easy and start with what makes you most comfortable. This week, I'll be experimenting with L'Oreal Lineur Intense Liquid Eye Liner in Defined By Plum and a light dusting of deep lavender and bronze shadows.

Below is a list of some high/low end purple makeup to try. Happy purple!

Drugstore

• NYC Color Wheel Mosaic Eye Powder - Purple Rain
• Prestige Eye Shadow - Velvet, Blossom, Bisou, Bacchus, & Royale
• Maybelline Expert Wear Eye Shadow - Amethyst
• Milani Eye Shadow - Shock (Powder), Royalty (Runway Eyes), & Couture in Purples (Runway Eyes Fashion)
• L'Oreal Wear Infinite Eye Shadow - Plum Royale
• L'Oreal HiP Eye Shadow Duo - Sculpted & Charisma
• NYX Eye Shadow Trio - TS6 (Purple, Deep Purple, Prune) & TS3 Lake Moss
• NYX Single Eye Shadow - Violet, Eggplant, Red Bean Pie, & Burgundy Pearl
• Jordana Eye Shadow - Sweet Plum
• Jordana Eye Liners - Purple Fusion, Parisian Plum, & Eggplant
• L'Oreal Limited Edition Plum Collection products: Lineur Intense Liquid Eye Liner - Defined By Plum, Wear Infinite Eye Shadow Quad - Purple Mosaic
  

Sephora/Department Store

• Calvin Klein Eye Shadow Quad - Purple Variation
• Bobbi Brown Eye Shadow - Velvet Plum
• Laura Mercier Eye Shadow - Black Plum, Kir Royale, & Plum Smoke
• Laura Mercier Kohl Eye Liner - Black Violet
• Urban Decay Eye Shadow - Flash, Crash, & Purple Haze
• Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-on Eye Pencil - 1999, Rockstar, & Lust
• Urban Decay Lipstick - Apocalypse
• Clinique Creme Shaper for Eyes - Starry Plum
• Clinique Kohl Shaper for Eyes - Black Amethyst
• Make Up For Ever Eye Shadow - Deep Plum Shimmer Iridescent 79, Matte Dark Purple 160, & Purple 92
• The Balm Shady Lady Eye Shadow - Curvy Cami & Just This Once
• MAC Eye Shadow - Purple Haze
• Rock 'n' Ruin Pressed Eye Shadow - Purple
• Stila Eye Shadow - Batura
• Stila Eye Shadow Duo - Orchid & Vieux Carre
• Cargo Eye Shadow - Cyprus
• LORAC Eye Shadow -After Party & Rhapsody
• LORAC Starry-Eyed Baked Eye Shadow Trio - Starlet
• Sephora Brand Enchanted Eye Palette - Plum

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...

Balm Diggitys

Rolling out my list of my current, low-key lip faves. One of the reasons I love all things lips particularly lipstick, and always have at least 2-3 lip products on hand is because my lips turn into prunes every other hour. These products have fixed that every time.

I think Kiehl's and Smith's Rosebud Salve are a bit overrated - most of these have similar effects and are either cheaper or better quality. I use a couple of them almost everyday:

1) Carmex (Original Tube) - Yes, I know. I'm sure some people hate this. I don't know why, but it works great for me. It's sort of a stronger Vaseline, which is what I used to apply at night. I've switched over to this (haven't gotten around to buying Vaseline in a while) and wake up with smoother lips.

2) Blistex Lip Medex (blue pot) - This is very similar to Carmex, but has a thinner consistency, minty feel, and a pretty shimmer (Carmex looks more glossy) for which I like to layer this over lipsticks. This is definitely more moisturizing than Carmex, but because it comes in a pot, I tend to use it less. Hands down the best balm ever.

3) Nivea Glossy Lip Care & Lip Care (new) - Just discovered the Glossy one in Pink Star in Walgreen's and love it. I got the regular one from San earlier, but now it's officially available in the States so I'll probably use it more in the future as well. Not as good as the Glossy in my opinion but good enough.

4) Pop Beauty Mini Ribbon Lip Gloss - What can I say. The jojoba oil does wonders for my lips and I slather this on during work a few times a day. Also great for layering over lipsticks.

5) L'Oreal HiP Jelly Balm (reviewed by both myself and San) - This is the best understated gloss/balm out there right now, especially for the price. I have this in Luscious and even though it is pigmented, I use it occasionally as just a balm also.

6) Clinique Bare Brilliance Lipstick (Chocolate Ice) - Like I said earlier, almost down to a nub. Really more of a balmy lipstick than anything else. Too bad this doesn't come in other colors I like. There is some slippage involved for sure - definitely doesn't absorb into the skin as well as all of the above.

7) The Body Shop Cranberry Shimmer Lip Balm - I got this on sale for $1.00 so that might have to do something with how much I love it (clearance price might also indicate that it's been discontinued...). The color is similar to Chocolate Ice with more berry tones. This is the rare balm that successfully has some shimmer in it without going overboard, and without turning into a gloss.

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

Things I've Been Reaching For More Than I Expected

So while I still haven't developed a makeup "routine" (and likely won't, for a number of reasons), I find myself reaching for some of the same products over and over again. They help me clean up pretty nice in the morning, and I don't feel like I have guck on my face that I can't deal with.

Eye liner falls into the guck category, and I just haven't had the heart to bother using any lately. My eyes have been sensitive, and in this weather, no matter how long it lasts, it just doesn't feel very summery. Normally, I would reach for liner, some lipstick/gloss, and maybe a dusting of powder.

This is what I've actually been using:

1) L'Oreal True Match Super Blendable Powder in W4, Neutral Beige
2) L'Oreal FeatherLash Mascara in Black
3) Milani Mineral Blush in Sunset Beach
4) TheBalm Shady Lady Eye Shadow in Mysterious Marissa
5) Clinique Buttershine Lipstick in Rum Kiss

Sounds like a lot for me, but the effect is pretty simple and polished. I bother with the powder because my skin is on the oily side, and in this weather, I need something to mattify it a tad in the mornings.

Mascara - so much easier than liner, especially this one. The Marissa shadow is a dream to use, and I love the color/packaging more every time I use it. Just have to remember to use something underneath so it lasts longer...

Rum Kiss, the only product I haven't mentioned previously, is a basic pink/brown/nude with work-appropriate shine. I don't need the color in the mornings, but this is quite moisturizing. Very reliable and useful - will definitely buy again once it's done.

Nice mix of high and low products, huh? I'm quite pleased with myself. Now if only my dermatologist would fix my skin!

L'Oreal Bare Naturale Mascara - Not the Fairest of Them All

Another mascara to add to the list of oddly colored/packaged mascaras out there in drugstores lately. To put it simply, I find the packaging of the new L'Oreal Bare Naturale Mascara to be kind of weird. I mean, really - kind of weird, isn't it? It's this odd, tortoise shell-looking thing. It kind of looks like the special edition of an old mascara from the 50s which someone's grandmother had custom-made.

This probably isn't fair of me since I haven't even tried the mascara, and don't intend to (mostly because I'm happy with the L'Oreal FeatherLash and Fresh Supernova), but I must admit, the packaging is one reason I'm not so interested. However, it did initially caught my eye precisely because it is not some neon or metallic tube competing with a similarly neon or metallic tube.

It's a little intriguing, yes, and seems to suit this line's natural theme well - sort of. The only reason I may consider trying it (not anytime soon) is because its paraben-free, and since I have sensitive eyes, it might be worth it.

The 9 L'Oreal Products I Like

Ever since Anna mentioned that L'Oreal's HiP line seems to be particularly good for all sub-continental skintones, I've been thinking about how many L'Oreal products I've actually gone through (not all HiP) over the years. I've come to the conclusion that overall, I've had a rather good experience with L'Oreal products. Considering that this is a drugstore line, the quality, product range, color selection, and price are very good.

Thought I'd list some of the things I have tried, liked, re-bought (or would re-buy), or am using right now, although I don't currently have them all.

1) True Match Super Blendable Makeup Foundation
2) True Match Super Blendable Makeup Powder
3) Le Kohl Eyeliner in Onyx and Black Sable
4) Voluminous Mascara
5) Featherlash Mascara
6) HiPIlluminating Highlighter in Shimmer
7) HiP Vibrant Shimmer Bronzing Powder in Glowing
8) Colour Juice Stick in Chai Love You
9) HiP Jelly Balm in Luscious

#10 would have been the True Match Blush in Subtle Sable which I have not yet purchased, but will...soon. Just to make this list an even 10.

Should add that my sister has the Colour Riche Lipcolour lipstick in Brazil Nut - a fantastic shade for my skin, and that my mom uses L'Oreal lipsticks almost exclusively (only other competitor for her is Revlon).

More on HiP Jelly Balm

So yesterday I finally got my hands on my own little pot of L'Oreal HiP Jelly Balm in Luscious. San has been holding this gem for me for days now and reviewed it earlier, and I cannot believe I couldn't make a place for it in my bag sooner.

Jelly Balm is more pigmented than I thought it would be, but I'm glad that like most pot glosses/balms, the color didn't just disappear on my lips. The consistency was somewhere between a balm and regular gloss - not too thick but not at all gooey. It also left little residue on my fingers, which is unfortunately, what I used to apply it. I like it so much though, I may be tempted to get a retractable lip brush.

Luscious is a true berry shade that will probably look good on just about everyone, but particularly those with darker skintones. I love the not-just-a-tint-but-not-a-lipstick-or-gloss effect, as well as the buildable color. There is no shimmer and no lipstick pastiness. The lasting power is decent, too. It definitely works for day makeup, but I prefer Luscious for evening because this shade makes my lips pop - I'd like to try another one for day.

I imagine that lip tints/balms like Benefit's Benetint Lip Balm and Benetint Pocket Pal, MAC's Tendertones, Laura Mercier Lip Stain, have a similar effect. However, I think the Jelly Balm's price and color range make it far more worth it than similar, more expensive products.

One of my favorite new products that is versatile enough to deserve a place in anyone's makeup bag. $8.99 @ Walgreen's

L'Oreal FeatherLash

I bought this on sale at Duane Reade for, like, less than $4. How can you go wrong with something at that price? Even with the kinks, it's still pretty much worth it. But I do hope that kind of thinking isn't coloring my views on L'Oreal's FeatherLash (water- resistant) in Black.

As I've mentioned several times before, mascara really isn't my thing. My lashes are already rather curly and usually, one swipe of a good liner is enough. It's not that I think both look too dramatic, but usually when I wear liner, the mascara doesn't make all that of a difference (in my opinion) - I prefer to wear it alone.

This mascara is definitely perfect for that naturally defined look that is still a bit inky and glossy (the look I like best). At one point I was all about getting Clinique's Naturally Glossy Mascara but I think this may just be the drugstore answer to it.

FeatherLash has a nice, full bristle brush. When I first applied it, I thought it was going on somewhat like Maybelline's Great Lash (which I have not used in years and I basically think sucks) and making me look like I have 3 lashes. But then it spread out a bit and my lashes, more defined and full, returned. This could potentially need a lash comb depending on how much you apply and your lashes, but that probably goes for most mascaras.

The formula is nice and thin without being runny, and lasted me all day without a single trace of raccoon eye. I planned on removing this first with cold cream and then eye-makeup remover, but I don't think anything even came off with the cold cream - it must have flaked off by that time of day, which is a good thing because it was 10:30 pm. I would've been scared if it had started to colonize my lashes and refused to go. I'm glad this won't require extra cleaning.

I like the no-fuss packaging - a simple silver tube and gold cap. Another very portable product. There were absolutely 0 clumps, and lashes felt soft and light - I hate the usual creamy mascara heaviness. This would look great alone and can create both everyday and more dramatic looks. After drying, the brush seems to get caught on the the lashes a bit if you try to apply more, but I can live with that.

I've read that this is one of the few good brown mascaras so it's probably a good bet if that's what you prefer. Also, it appears that this (or perhaps an earlier version) comes in 2 brush types - curved and straight. I definitely have the straight one but the packaging hadn't indicated that.

I've used L'Oreal's Voluminous Mascara before but I think I like this better. I hope this isn't being discontinued - it could be since it was on sale. $7.95 @ Drugstore.com

HiP Jelly Balm - It Does Exist!

So following up on my earlier lead, Suman and I went to Walgreens to investigate the HIP Jelly Balms, and lo and behold! They do exist!

Basically a form of pot glosses, HIP Jelly Balm comes in six colors, all basic shades of red and pink. The shade I picked up is called Delectable; it's a translucent pinky red, almost watermelon-like. Other shade names include: Succulent, Ripe, Plush, Luscious, and Savory.

You can apply the balm with your finger or a lip brush, and they provide a nice tint to the lips. I'm not thrilled with having to use my fingers to apply, but luckily these aren't super sticky and don't leave a film on your fingertips.

While I haven't tried the MAC Tendertones that these have been compared to, Stila used to have a similar product (now discontinued) called Lip Pots. The HIP balms are along the same lines, but are sheerer than the Stila ones, which verged on the opaque.

These apply with a very suble hint of color. They've got a pretty strong scent to them - a burnt caramel fragrance, super-yummy but super-sweet. They have the same scent as the HIP Shine Struck Liquid lipcolor, for a point of reference.

The packaging of these is very similar to the HIP Cream Eyeliner pots; a pretty sturdy glass pot with a black screw-off lid. However, unlike the eyeliners, these just come shrinkwrapped without a box.

They're located in their own special display, apart from the main HIP fixture, so it's unclear as to whether these are limited edition. But I do recommend them for a casual makeup day, as a no-fuss lipcolor for a girl on the run. Many drugstores often have HIP products as part of Buy One Get One Free sales, which make them a really economical alternative to lipstick.

$8.99 @ Walgreens

Coolest Kohl - L'Oreal Le Kohl Eyeliner

As you can tell from my entries on this site, I've been experimenting a lot with eyeliners and shadows lately, and have settled on a few good products (for now). Prior to this, I used to buy what worked decently and was on sale. Last year, this method resulted in a few amazing drugstore eyeliner finds which deserve special mention here.

By far the best kohl eyeliners were L'Oreal's Le Kohl Smooth Defining Eyeliners in Onyx and Black Sable. I used these both for well over a year and was extremely satisfied. They glide on very smooth with little tugging, even on the upper and lower waterlines. Since they're kohl formulas, they don't have the best staying power, of course, but still last much longer than you would expect. Even some of the best, high-end kohl liners are worthless in this respect since the truer the kohl quality, the quicker it will smudge and give you raccoon eyes. The Sephora brand's regular and waterproof kohl pencils could be an exception, but I have yet to give those an honest try (bought a couple once and returned them). The Le Kohl pencils are just hard enough to give precise definition but soft enough to produce a slightly smoky effect.

I loved Black Sable in particular because it is such a great dark brown/black. Although I am currently using Almay's Amazing Eyeliner, which is a long-lasting, non-kohl formula, Black Sable runs a very, very close second.

Overall, these are classic, reliable kohl pencils, especially for the budget-conscious, that give both simple and more dramatic looks. Other great colors include Carbon Black, Cafe, Smoke, and Le Plum (which I just bought on sale and will try very soon). Had I not started experimenting, I definitely would have repurchased these. $7.95 @ Drugstore.com