November/December 2018 Out Of My Face

Well not a lot was used up these last couple of months. I'm hoping for 2019 there will be A LOT more used up since my plan is to cut back on beauty purchases. Here's what I used up.

• Olay Daily Facials 
• Wen Ultra Nourishing Intensive Body Treatment in Love
• Serious Skincare A Force XR
• Covergirl Queen All Flawless Foundation
• NYX Micro Brow Pencil in Chocolate
• LORAC Front of the Line Pro Liquid Eyeliner
• Beauty Secrets Acetone 16oz
• Creme of Nature Argan Oil Strength & Shine Leave-in Conditioner 
• Jamaican Mango & Lime Jamaican Black Castor Oil in Eucalyptus
• Hadalabo Hylaronic Cleanser
• Serious Skincare Glycolic Cleanser
• Serious Skincare Vitamin C Ester Pads
• Clarks Botanicals Intense Radiance Mask
• IT Cosmetics Miracle Water
• Suave Coconut Oil Infusion Damage Repair Shampoo

And there you have it. I'm toying around with the idea of doing these monthly next year. We shall see!

TTFN - ta ta for now!

November/December 2018 Hit List

Another two month combo. I had work travel in November. I went back to Florida.This meeting I usually don't attend and really didn't need to attend but I digress. Next thing I knew it was Thanksgiving then hello December! Even with the little bit of stuff I had going on it was a lot. And now here we are. So let's see what tickled my fancy for the last two months.

elf Baked Eyeshadows

As always when it come to what eyeshadows I'm taking on a work trip I draw a blank. I wanted to play around with the all Makeup Revolution Reloaded Palette in Basic Mattes some more that I picked up from Ulta. I was thumbing through my stash and came across these elf Baked Eyeshadows in Bark and Chocolate Dream. I remember when these made the rounds on YouTube. I used to use these all the time and really liked them. I thought these two would pair nicely with the Makeup Revolution palette and off to Florida they went. These two shades are my favorite everyday go to kinds of shades. Bark is a deeper shimmery chocolate bronze shade and Chocolate Dreams is a shimmery chocolate brown shade. These are pigmented and easy to wear. I try to do easy makeup when traveling for work and these fit the bill. I'm going to leave them in my travel makeup bag.

Covergirl Professional Super Thick Lash Waterproof Mascara

I picked this up from Ulta during a promo. I think one of my YouTube favs mentioned it some time ago and I finally decided to give it a go. This is another product I took with me to Florida. I really like it. It gave me a nice full natural looking lash. Even thought its waterproof, it isn't hard to remove.

Morphe Jaclyn Hill Dark Magic Palette

When I originally saw The Vault collection I said I wasn't going to get all 4 palettes. But I ended up getting all 4 palettes LOL! The Dark Magic Palette was the main one that caught my eye. It's mix of dark goodness that I like. I also like that there is a mix of neutral shades in this palette. I know there have be complaints about this palette. I've had no issues with any of these shadows.

Facial Mists

I randomly started using facial mists as the last step in my evening skincare routine over the last couple months. I've used them off and on and felt like I was drowning myself along with my hair and top getting drenched. So I didn't really get the hype. I've been rotating through the following mists: Jordan Samuel Skin Hydrate The Mist, Georgette Klinger Coconut Facial Mist and Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs and Rosewater. You can also use this after your makeup but I have not used these that way since I love the Urban Decay All Nigther Spray. All of these are an extra dose of hydration to the skin and my skin loves them and they have other good skin care ingredients. My favorite of the 3 is the Georgette Klinger one.

Vitamin C

I've slacked on using Vitamin C in my routine. My skin was fine but when I added Vitamin C back into my routine, it really made a difference. My skin was much brighter and even clearer. I've used a couple of products from Serious Skincare that I've talked about before. I used the Serious Skincare Vitamin C Ester Pads in the morning. I used the Serious Skincare Super Mel C Antioxidant Rich Beauty Cocktail both morning and night. The Bolden Brightening Moisturizer SPF 30 is a newcomer to my routine. ThisThatBeauty talked about on Instagram and I was curious so I picked it from their website and their mask up. Their SPF contains Vitamin C and antioxidants. It melts into the skin, doesn't leave a white cast and it's moisturizing but doesn't make me greasy. I definitely plan on repurchasing it once I use it and a couple of other SPFs I have up.

Nivea Essentially Enriched Body Lotion

This a past favorite that I decided to pick up again. I was talking to my friend recently that I'm kind of over pricey body products. This is very moisturizing but not greasy and leaves a nice sheen/glow to the skin. I love the almond oil in it. I've also been using this on my hands. I ordered this online from Target. Can I just say that Target has been my go to lately for picking up everyday items! When I can't get to to the store, I've been ordering online. Their shipping has gotten a lot better. It's just about as good as Amazon. And the Target Red Card comes in handy with free shipping and 5% off. I have the debit card.

Jamaican Mango & Lime Jamaican Black Castor Oil

I've been eyeing Jamaican Black Castor Oil (JBCO) off and on for years but never tried it. I picked up a couple of bottles from Sally Beauty when they were on sale. I picked up peppermint and eucalyptus. Both smell amazing and I've enjoyed using both on my hair and scalp. I've also mixed them in my conditioner and deep conditioner. I picked up coconut from Target and I have been using that just on my hair. It also smells amazing, moisturized my hair and makes it soft and shiny. If you are looking for an amazing inexpensive hair oil then check out JBCO. I've also picked up JBCO Hair Food from another brand and I've enjoyed that as well.

Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm

These long products names! This has been in and out of my Sephora cart for a while now. I finally grabbed it during the Sephora sale. This cleansing balm is fantastic! FANTASTIC!! This is hands down one of the best cleansing balms I have used. It smells nice, it's not heavy or makes my skin feel greasy and it's gets all my makeup off! I know Farmacy runs sales and promos on their site. So I will definitely check them out so I can grab more once I get low on it.

Revlon Kiss Balm in Tropical Coconut

I have raved about the exfoliating balm. So I went to see what other balms are available in this line. When I saw a coconut one with SPF I said SOLD!! I'm always on the hunt for the "perfect" lip balm with SPF for daytime. This one is good! It's moisturizing but not too moisturizing that it interferes with lip liner application and whatever other lip products I throw on top of it. I've worn it on its own as well and I don't get that white film line I can get with other lip balms. I got it from Target. The next time I'm in store or place an online order I'm grabbing two more.

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

I've been curious about this cream and picked it up from Ulta. I really really like it. It moisturizing and soothing on my skin. I may go back and grab the travel sized bottle.

Juicy Couture Viva La Juicy Pure Parfum Spray

I picked up the Juicy Couture Viva La Juicy Pure Parfum and Body Creme Set from HSN when it was a Today's Special. I soooooo did not need this! I have another bottle already. This is the pure parfum and the scent it is supposed to last longer *shrugs* LOL! Bottom line I'm sucker. Auto ship was available so of course I went for that option. The bottle is limited edition and it is so pretty! I hadn't worn this scent in a while and I forgot how much I enjoy it. I've also picked up the rollerball for travel. It's a good everyday, year round scent.

Mented Cosmetics Semi-Matte Lipstick in Brand Nude

I talked about their palette back in my September/October Hit List but have not talked about the lipsticks. These are so good. I love the semi matte formula. It's long wearing and not drying. Brand Nude is described as a deeply pigmented tan shade. It's pretty much the perfect brown nude. I almost have all over their semi-matte lipsticks. I think I'm missing two and will pick those up. I'm not sure if I'm going to do a 2018 favorites. If I was these lipsticks would definitely be on the list.

Mented Cosmetics Matte Lipstick in Red Rover

Mented launched matte red lipsticks and of course I haaaaad to have them right? They had a set with all 3, so that's what I grabbed. I've only worn one so far and that's Red Rover. Red Rover is described as a deep red with blackberry undertones and it is beautiful! Their matte formula is very similar to their semi-matte formula.

OPI Nutcracker Collection

These were my go do nail polishes in December. I enjoyed all 4. I picked up Tinker, Thinker, Winker? (sparkling silver), Dazzling Dew Drop (shimmering glimmering gold), Black to Reality (dark daring red) and Envy the Adventure (lovely luscious green). I got a lot of compliments when I wore Tinker, Thinker, Winker? and Dazzling Dew Drop. If you're looking for something for New Years or special occasion nail polishes then check these two out.

Ocean's 8

I could have mentioned this in my last post. I did see this at the movies with my mom and really enjoyed. So I knew I was going to get the DVD when it was released. Lately I've been getting Blu-ray with a digital copy. I also watched this on the plane coming home from Florida. I actually have this on in the background while I'm working on this post. Love the cast of characters, the story line, the music in the movie, pretty much everything. I'm curious if there's going to be a sequel.

A downer is that Serious Skincare is no longer being sold on HSN! Gah! They haven't given any updates on what shopping channel they're going to. It's not like there are a ton of options. I've only shopped on their site maybe twice. HSN had the better deals. So we shall see if they'll continue to be in my skin care routine. I have back ups of my favorite items so I should be good for a while.

I know this year has been kind of lackluster and I'm not sure what next year will bring. We shall see. Thanks for following me along! I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday and has a fantastic New Year!

Holiday Nails! OPI Nutcracker Collection

A nail polish post?! *gasp*

I haven't purchased any nail polish in a while. When I saw OPI's Nutcracker collection my eyes started wandering. When I saw these shades I instantly said holiday nails!!!! Here is what I picked!

Tinker, Thinker, Winker? - sparkling silver

Dazzling Dew Drop - shimmering glimmering gold

Black to Reality - dark daring red

Envy the Adventure - lovely luscious green

Today I'm wearing Tinker, Thinker, Winker? It is so pretty, metallic and sparkly but it's smooth. You do not feel the glitter. It reminds of some Zoya nail polishes that are similar. I was leery that it wouldn't build up but I am wearing two coats and I love the way it turned out. I'm curious on how Dazzling Dew Drop will look. I may have to go back and look at the other shades in the collection again LOL!!

September/October 2018 Hit List

Hey. Hey there. How ya doing? Can you believe that it is November! All I can do is shake my head. I couldn't get my act together to get my September favorites up then October came and went. Today was the day to get this post done or it wasn't going to happen! So now you get  two months of favorites.  Let's get to it!

L'Oreal Infallible Lip Paints

I mentioned picking up Nude Star last year. I picked up more shades and some were gifted to me. I hadn't used them in a while and decided to pull all the shades I had out when I was attempting to destash various lip products. Well these aren't going anywhere. These are some awesome lippies. The feel good on the lips, they don't dry my lips out and the color range is awesome. If you're looking for a long wearing lippie at the drugstore then check these out. I have some additional shades I want to pick up.

Sally Hansen Cuticle Oil

I got this in one the those Allure beauty boxes and it has been sitting. I finally cracked it open and I really like it. It's not greasy and it absorbs in my cuticles nicely. I also like that it a a brush applicator. It makes it easy to apply.

ColourPop Lippie Stix in Thousand Percent

I can't remember what made me pick this shade up but can I tell you I love it! I could wear this shade everyday. I took it with me on my last work trip. It is described as a rich chocolate cherry. This shade is also super long wearing. Check out the swatches of it on their website!

Makeup Revolution Reloaded Palette in Velvet Rose

One of my YouTube favs Jennifer Wan mentioned this palette. It's very inexpensive at $7, so I said why not and grabbed it from Ulta. On the Makeup Revolution website, the shades in the palette are described as "essential beiges and browns, multi-functional shimmery golds, burgundy hues and an ultra pigmented black with a copper glitter twist". I've really enjoyed this palette and it sparked me to purchase additional Reloaded palettes. I was very tempted to travel with this palette but I opted to take their all matte palette which I was kind of leery about but ended up really liking it as well. If there's a certain color scheme you want to try but you don't want to spend a whole lot on a palette then definitely check these palettes out.

LORAC Front of the Line PRO Liquid Eyeliner

If you have been following me for a while you know that a dark brown liquid eyeliner has been my go to. Since I haven't found a replacement for a previous favorite, I have been reaching for my LORAC liquid liner which is a past favorite. I've been liking the look of black liquid liner more and more. This one is easy to apply and lasts all day. I pick it up from Ulta when it's on sale for $10 and grab two of them.

Breathable Nail Polishes

If you've noticed, I haven't done a lot of nail polish posts. For whatever reason my nails have taken a beating over the last few months. I'm still painting them with regular nail polish but I have been reaching for various breathable nail polishes from Julep and Essie. With these polishes you get a hint of color on your nails and treatment. I've been using these for my mid week polish change. Or if I don't have a look going on then I'll reach for one of these. The super size Julep polishes I got from QVC. The Essie polishes I picked up from Ulta.

Mented Cosmetics Everyday Eyeshadow Palette

One of my makeup up loving Sorority sisters introduced me to this brand. I've been following them on Instagram. I've picked up several lipsticks and glosses. So of course I was curious abut the palette. When I got it in the mail I was surprised by the size. It's bigger than I expected which isn't a bad thing. It's only nine shades but it's just enough for a neutral palette. I feel like in the larger neutral palettes shades can be redundant. The shades are pigmented and easy to blend. My favorite is the dark matte brown Brown Out. Surprise surprise. I've enjoyed this on its own but I've enjoyed it more using it with other palettes. It's a good companion palette. The only downside is that the shade names are printed on a separate piece of card stock.

Urban Decay Naked Palette

This palette right here! I had the original (with the double ended eyeliner), got rid of it, saw that it was being discontinued, repurchased it then had buyer's remorse. Phew! When I received this in the mail I was excited but then I was tempted to return it since I've been on a clear out my makeup stash kit (which I'm kind of getting over). I used it a few times and remembered why I liked this palette so much but was still tempted to return it. The more I used it, I said nope I'm keeping it. It's a great mix of neutral shades and I've used it with other palettes which I never did previously and it made me like it more. So yay for having this back in my stash! I still feel like we're getting played and it's not really being discontinued.

MAC Nevermore Lip Pencil

This lip pencil was in the MAC Aaliyah collection and I didn't purchase it at first. One of my friends raved about it. MAC described it as black. My friend described it as a cross between Chestnut (intense brown) and Currant (intense reddish-purple). Her description had me intrigued so I picked it. When I applied it, the dark lippie lover in me swooned! It is perfection! If you are a dark lippe lover you NEED this in your arsenal! I've already purchased 2 back ups and I rarely purchase back ups anymore. It is smooth, creamy, pigmented and long wearing. I don't own any other MAC lip pencils but now I'm curious about some of the longstanding iconic shades that everyone raves about. So we'll see if more end up in my stash.

ColourPop Ultra Glossy Lip - Shayla x ColourPop

I have both of the glosses from Makeup Shayla's ColourPop collections but I hadn't really used them. I reached for Drippin' on a day where I was doing a makeup no makeup look of sorts. Drippin's is described as a soft peach with gold & silver glitter. It is BOMB with a brown lip liner. I kinda want a back up of Drippin' but I don't really need one. If it's ever discontinued, I'm getting another one. So then I reached for Neat Freak. It is described as a peachy champagne with pink & gold glitter. It is super pretty as well. Both of these would make great topper glosses. I had looked at some more expensive glosses and said NOPE! I'm fine with these. I may check out some other Ultra Glossy Lip shades. These feel great on the lips too.

Julep Length Matters Buildable Lengthening Mascara

I ordered the Julep 4-Piece Fall Beauty Basics collection when it was a QVC Beauty IQ Steal. Of the 4 pieces, the Length Matters Mascara is the product that stood out the most. This mascara kind of reminds me of Tarte's Maneater mascara. The applicator is plastic which is my favorite mascara applicator and it is has short bristles. It really defines, lengthens and curls my lashes. I've enjoyed it on its own or as a first coat mascara and then layer another mascara on top of it. I would definitely repurchase it.

philosophy The Present

This was my go to primer. I've repurchased it many times. I had an oh no moment when I thought it was going to be discontinued. At some point while using this, my makeup just didn't look right. So I stop using it. I was so bummed. I reached for it again to see what was what. If I was still having issues with it then I was going to toss it. Well we're back in business! My makeup is going on nicely and lasts with this primer. I don't know what the issue was but I'm glad I tried it again.

Let's see what the rest of November brings! I'm hoping not a lot new wise because I need to pump the breaks on my beauty spending. We'll see how that goes bahahahaaa!!

September/October 2018 Out of My Face

Hey. Hey There. How ya doin? Sooooo been MIA. Thought I'd try to get back to it with my most recent empties.

Here's what I've used up the last couple of months.

• Suave Coconut Oil Infusion Damage Repair Conditioner
• Creme of Nature Argan Oil Strength & Shine Leave-in Conditioner
• One 'n Only Argan Oil Treatment
• Serious Skincare A Force XR
• Supreme Moisture Locking Natural Hand Cream
• Supreme Cuticle Care Oil
• philosophy 3-in-1 shower gel in Candy Cane
• Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream
• Skindinavia The Makeup Finishing Spray - Oil Control version
• Covergirl Queen All Day Flawless Foundation in Mocha Q835
• Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Skin Therapy Cleansing Oil
• Jamaican Mango & Lime Jamaican Black Castor Oil in Peppermint
• Tarte Maneater Mascara
• Serious Skincare Mega Force
• Serious Skincare A Wash
• Nivea Cocoa Butter Body Cream
• Elemis Pro Collagen Cleansing Balm
• Bliss Lemon & Sage Hand Cream
• Clark's Botanicals Intense Radiance Mask
• Origins Out of Trouble Mask
• Schwarzkopf Smooth 'n Shine Conditioning Polisher
• Revlon Kiss Exfoliating Balm

I enjoyed all these empties with the exception of the Nivea Cocoa Butter Body Cream. I was excited to try this. It's inexpensive and I've tried other lotions from Nivea that I've liked. The consistency is nice and smooth but it was not moisturizing at all. To use it up, I layered Vaseline's Cocoa Radiant Body Gel Oil after I applied the body cream. I say skip this and pick up their Essentially Enriched Body Lotion.

Next up will be my favorites of September and October!

Palette Obsessions: Coloured Raine and Makeup Revolution

I swear I can't stop buying eyeshadow palettes! When I heard that the original Naked palette was being discontinued, I was so tempted to get one since I got rid of mine like a dummy. Well I can now say I DID repurchase it from Macy when they had 15% off going on which I could use on top of the sale price. So score! It still might be going on at the time of this post. Here are some other recent palette purchases. I've used 3 of the 4 palettes already. So I can give some initial first impressions of the palettes. Yay!

The Coloured Raine Queen of Hearts Palette was on sale on their website and I jumped on getting it. Two of my makeup friends have raved about this palette. I've done a few looks with it and so far I am enjoying it. My ONLY gripe is with the matte brown called Duchess. I wish it was a tad deeper but I still enjoy it and it's not like I don't have darker brown shades in my stash. I also wish the wine shade Lady Ship was a tad deeper as well. Again nothing major.

I kind of crapped on Makeup Revolution with some previous palettes I ended up returning. Well this time around I have purchased 3 *head palm*. One of my YouTube favs emilynoel83 has collaborated with Makeup Revolution and we have two palettes! If you have not seen her video on this collaboration, please check out her video. I couldn't be more happy for her. I've played around with The Needs Face & Eye Palette and The Wants palette. I picked up both from Ulta. If I could go back and edit my purchase I probably would have just picked up The Wants palette. I like The Needs palette but I don't see myself reaching for it a ton. The bronzer shade Courage I cannot use on my face. So I've used it an extra eyeshadow. Also a couple of the eyeshadows are really my jam but I'll use them. The Passion shadow is GORGEOUS! The Wants palette is BEAUTIFUL! It's not just a neutrals palette. It has a nice mix of shades. I have the same gripe with The Wants palette that I have with the Queen of Hearts of palette. I wish that the matte brown Apartment was a tab deeper. But the palette has a matte black as well. So I can mix Apartment with that and I'm good. Her palette are available at Ulta and the Makeup Revolution website.

I picked up the Tropical Paradise Palette from the Makeup Revolution website. This is another collaboration palette with MakeupbyTammi. She's a UK YouTuber that I stumbled upon. I've mentioned before I try to support WOC YouTubers when I can and if I like the product. This is a pretty mix of shades. I haven't dipped into it yet but I'm anxious to play around with it.

I'm hoping after this I can really do a no buy *sigh*. But all the holiday stuff is releasing. GAH! I quit this life LOL!!! Stay tuned for my next palette shenanigans.

August 2018 Hit List

Can someone please tell me where Summer went? I am looking forward to Fall as always but after that comes Winter *sigh*. I hate Winter!

Here are my favorites for August. Some of these items came with me on my work trip to Chicago.

IT Cosmetics Miracle Water

I picked this up from QVC when they had a Today's Special Value (which I did order but I sent it back). What intrigued me about this product is that is a 3 in 1. It's skin-brightening radiance booster, anti-aging treatment essence and skin-softening micellar cleanser. I've mainly been using during my evening skin routine and I LOVE IT! It gets any extra dirt and makeup off my face, my skin has been brighter with continued use and my skin is super soft after using it. I'm always looking for something to brighten my skin and I've been wanting to add an essence to my routine. It's an easy product to incorporate into your routine. I also love the water like consistency. This month I have been using "thinner" products like this and I have really been enjoying them. Of course I opted for auto delivery. It also can with a mini Secret Sauce moisturizer but I have not tried it yet.

Erborian Bamboo Matte Lotion

This is another "thin" product that I have added to my morning skin care routine. A friend was nice enough to pass this along to me. It is available at Sephora. I have been eyeing a matte face primer from this brand. This product combined with the next product below has done wonders for my foundation application. My skin in smooth and nicely matte not dried out. When I was in Chicago even my boss mentioned that my makeup looked good. I was like well then! I plan on repurchasing this product during the VIB sale in November.

Luzern La Defense Urban Protect Daily Moisturizer

I thought I had talked about this before but apparently not. Another product that my friend passed along to me. It can be purchased from their website. I've mainly used this when I travel for a daytime moisturizer and I forgot how much I really like it. It protects your skin from all the bad stuff we encounter everyday like pollution and such. It absorbs nicely into the skin and I feel like mattfies, smooths and plumps out my skin. It feels perfectly moisturized. So this combined with the Erborian Bamboo Matte Lotion...HELLO! As much as I love it I highly doubt I'll purchase it when I'm done mainly due to the cost. I mean it's $85! But never say never. Stranger things have happened.

Tarte Tarlette in Bloom Palette

I went back and forth on what palette to travel with and I settled on this one. This is an awesome palette for travel. I think it's the third time I've traveled with it. It's super easy to use and I had no trouble with my looks lasting all day. Also the dark matte shades in this palette are everything! I think this may be my go to palette for travel.

Urban Decay Darkhorse Eyeshadow

I took the Urban Decay Rollergirl palette with me to Chicago mainly for one eyeshadow. I used Darkhorse a lot. It's the perfect dark brown eyeshadow. It's described as a deep mocha . I'm tempted to get in a single shadow. Or repurchase the original Naked palette I destashed since the palette is being discontinued and is currently on sale. I could wear a dark brown eye look everyday and be happy.

MAC Blush in Notable and Raizin

If you've been following me along these two blushes have been long time favorites. Both are matte blushes Notable is muted brick rose color. It's hands down my favorite pink blush. Raizin is golden reddish-brown. These two blushes go with almost any look that I do.

ColourPop Bardot Blush

I just mentioned this blush last month. I was about to put it away but still kept reaching for it in August. I may leave in rotation come Fall. I think it'll pair nicely with my favorite dark lippies! It is described as rusty red copper

Urban Decay Vice Lipstick & Hi-Fi Shine Lipgloss in Rapture

These two were impulse buys while I was in Chicago. I forgot my Beso lipgloss that I also talked about last month. So I was going to buy another gloss. Sephora doesn't carry Beso. So instead of walking out of the store, I picked up not one but two new lippies *head palm*. Rapture is described as a dusty rose (lipstick) and rose mauve (lipgloss) and it is beautiful! I pretty much wore this lippie the entire week. I paired with a purple line and a berry liner and it looked good with both. I may have finally ordered Backtalk during the recent Sephora Insider Appreciation sale too *twirls*.

OLEHENRIKSEN Balance It All™ Essentials Set

This more of a surprise item vs favorite. I picked this set up from Sephora. I had a sample of the cleanser and I really liked it. I got this set to get more of the cleanser and to try the toner and moisturizer. I used these products on a super hot day were I was sweating a lout. Also I went to Sunday brunch and the AC in the restaurant I was in didn't seem to be working or due to the huge windows letting in all the sunlight in overtook the AC. I thought I would be a greasy mess when I got home but I wasn't! I was shocked. I did use another serum and SPF with these items but then didn't interfere with the OLEHENRIKSEN products. I'm going to pull this set back out and use it in September since it's still hot out.

And there you have it. A nice mix of products for the month. Let's see what September brings!

Here's the view from my room in Chicago.

July/August 2018 Out of My Face

Hey hey hey. Hi hi hiiiiiiii!

I know things have been lackluster around here with just empties and favorites *shrugs*.  It may change then it may not. I'm still struggling with my beauty self. Yes I'm still buying and trying stuff but I'm also trying to identify go to products and such. And I'm also trying to scale back and get rid of stuff/use what I have. So basically I'm still all over the place lol!

Here is what I've used up for July and August!

• Drunk Elephant Beste Jelly Cleanser
• Serious Skincare Glycolic Extreme Facial Peel 
• Serious Skincare Reverse Sereum
• Serious Skincare  Serious C3 Plasma C Serum
• Serious Skincare Ultra-Mare Serum
• Lancome Advanced Genifique
• Clark's Botanicals Intense Radiance Mask
• Pantene Gold Series Intense Hydrating Oil
• Cosrx Good Morning Cleanser
• Suave Coconut Oil Infusion Damage Repair Shampoo
• Vaseline Intensive Care Cocoa Radiant Lotion
• belif the true cream aqua bomb .33 fl oz
• Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Frambos Glycolic Night Serum 
• Derma E Rejuvenating Sage & Lavender Face Oil
• Ole Henriksen Find Your Balance Oil Control Cleanser
• Bliss Naked Body Butter
• Urban Decay All Nighter Spray .50 fl oz
• Korres Vanilla Cherry Body Butter 1.69 fl oz

I think the only newbie to the list is the Bliss Naked Body Butter. I picked it up from Ulta. It was decent. I don't need any more body moisturizers right now. Even if I did I wouldn't rush out to repurchase it. It pained me to use up the Drunk Elephant Beste Jelly Cleaner. I had it in the old packaging but it so good! I don't need any more facial cleansers right now but I am definitely repurchasing during the November Sephora sale!

Not a lot used up this round but it'll do! Next up will be my August favorites! Someone please tell me where did summer go!?!?!?

Palette Obsessions: MAC, Tarte, Juvia's Place

This post is a haul/first impressions of sorts. These are recent purchases. I've done a look or two with them (except for one palette). So far I'm liking them put they haven't reached favorite status yet but I wanted to talk about them. So here they are!

After using the MAC Aaliyah Age Ain't Nothing palette, I've been eyeing other MAC eyeshadow palettes. I picked up two quads from one of the PatrickStarrr's releases. I got both of these on sale. One I got from MAC and the other I got from Macy's. I'm not sure if they are still available. I picked up Glam AF and Goalgetter. Both are super pretty and have some classic MAC shades. Then I picked up the Burgundy Time Nine palette when The Style and Beauty Doctor mentioned it in a post. She said it's a second cousin to the Urban Decay Naked 3 palette but with deeper shades and I totally agree. I like that it has deeper shades. I feel like they work better with my skin tone. I've considered traveling with some of these for my upcoming work trip. We shall see if they make it into my makeup bag.

I went in Ulta to return some skincare. Of course I can't walk in, make a return and walk out of the store. I looked at the Urban Decay On the Run collection that I was set on getting but seeing it in person, I was like meh. Looking at the Tarte items I came across the Love, Trust & Fairy Dust Eye & Cheek Palette. When I saw it, I'm sure my eyes got big. It instantly gave me Urban Decay Naked 3 palette vibes but I like this one better! I've played around with this palette the most and I have really been enjoying it. The packaging is also too cute and I'm typically not a sucker for packaging.

It's safe to say if Juvia's Place comes out with a new palette then I'm getting it! They recently released the Afrique palette and like the rest of their palettes it is gorgeous! I haven't dipped into this one yet oh but I will! It's currently sold out. Check their social media for the restock or you can get emailed when it's back in stock.

And there you have it!

I typically post hauls to my Instagram. So follow me along there if you'd like!

July 2018 Hit List

Here are my favorites for July!

Urban Skin Rx Even Tone Cleansing Bar

I hadn't used this in a while then one of my favs, ThisThatBeauty mentioned loving it in a blog post and it remind me to pull it back out. My skin was all over the place in July and this helped get me back right. I had more breakouts in July than usual and with breakouts come dark marks. This helped clear these marks up and brighten my skin overall. I also would use it as a mask and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it off my face. I want to try their clear skin cleansing bar. I may pick that up in the next month or so. So if you skin needs some brightening check this cleansing bar out. The line is now at Target.

Serious Skincare Mega Force Liquid Exfoliant

This is another product I added back into my skin care rotation that helped get my skin back right. This liquid exfoliant helped get dirt and dead skin off my face along with keeping it smooth. Getting dead skin of face helps with those pesky dark marks and helps to brighten the skin. It also has Salicylic Acid which helps my skin when it comes to breakouts. This bad boy will not be put to the side again!

Clinique Dramatically Different Hydrating Jelly

I've been curious about this ever since seeing crystalis007 mention it on her Instagram page. I read several reviews saying this is great for oily and combination skin needing moisture. After using it I totally agree! It is lightweight and sinks right into the skin but doesn't make my skin feel greasy. I got this size as gift with purchase from Sephora. But this size is available to purchase for $5! There are two other sizes available as well. If you skin is craving moisture then check this out.

L'Oreal Brow Stylist Shape & Fill in Brunette

I went to Ulta to the L'Oreal Brow Stylist Definer which is my new favorite brow pencil. I thought I mentioned it recently but I guess I haven't. I accidentally picked up the L'Oreal Brow Sytlist Shape & Full and I was like oh ok! I really like it! I have thick brows and I feel like sometimes I can over do it with a thinner brow pencil. A few quick swipes of these and I'm down and my brow looks natural which I love! So score for picking up the wrong product LOL!

ColourPop Bardot Blush

ColourPop has gotten quite a bit of my money this year. This blush was  on sale then ColourPop sent a 20% off on sale items and I said why not. It is described as rusty red copper and I wore this blush a lot in July. It an easy to wear blush. I slapped it on and had the prettiest color and glow on my cheeks. It's perfect for summer and I can't wait to wear in the fall with some dark lippies!

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

This product has made the rounds on YouTube and Instagram. Everyone has raved about it. I finally picked up to try for myself from Sephora but then it sat. I forgot I bought it *head palm*. Once I remembered I had it, it went into my evening skincare routine. It is so good! It's not sticky or greasy. I wake up in the morning and my lips are soft, plump and hydrated! On weekends when I'm bumming around the house during the day I'll throw this on my lips.The only downside it I don't like that it's in a jar. Other than that it's great!

Urban Decay Hi-Fi Shine Ultra Cushion Lip Gloss in Beso

I was curious about some of the pink glosses in this line. My makeup loving sorority sister raved about this shade. It's her go to and she buys multiples of it at a time. I was like well let me check this one out. I'm so glad I did. I love it! It is described as a deep pink-mauve cream. It's a little darker than my natural lip color. It's not too much color for day time yet perfect as a nighttime lippie too. I've raved about the formula in previous post. I may check out Backtalk next which crystalis007 has raved about.

Buxom Lip Polishes and Creams

Recently I picked up Crystal (berry which really in purple *shurgs*), Margaret (mocha rapture) and Blushing Margarita (lip cream - rosy nude). Lately if I top a lipstick with a gloss, a Buxom one is what I am reaching for. I also love wearing these on their own with a lip liner. I think it's safe to say that these are my #1 favorite. If  could own all of them I probably would but there are like a 100 of them. So yea I don't think that's happening lol!! I have however been looking at the shade selection and any holes I want to fill in my lip gloss stash. So let's see what other colors I pick up! *twirls*

And now on to the not so favorites.

Maybelline Fit Matte + Poreless Foundation in Truffle 362

I was going to mention this last month but forgot. A lot of people have raved about this foundation. So I was excited to try it especially when they added more shades to the line. I snagged this from Walgreens when I had some reward dollars. It applied nicely and when I was done with my face it looked nice. However this did not keep me matte or poreless throughout the day. I tried it with various primers and powders I had on hand and it just did not look good at the end of the day. I was a greasy mess and it emphasized my pores. So this is a definite no go for me.

L'Oreal Infallible Pro Matte Liquid Lipstick 

I picked up two of these lippies in their new Les Chocolats line from Ulta. I got the shades 70% Yum (dark chocolate) and Box O Chocolate (pinky brown nude) They smell really good and that's the only good thing about them. I was so excited about 70% Yum and it was terrible! It was on patchy and I knew it would look like a hot mess by the end of the day. I layered the Buxom gloss in Sarina over top and it saved it. Box O Chocolate wasn't as bad since it a lighter shade. It's a kinda weird shade. I went heavy on using a brown lip liner and I also topped it with a gloss. I think used Buxon's Blushing Margarita. Adding a gloss defeats the purpose of wearing a liquid lipstick and I do love a matte lip. But adding a gloss also saved my lips because the formula is super drying and not comfortable to wear. So I say skip these. There are much better liquid lipstick formulas out there.

July was fun playing around this and that. On to August!

June 2018 Hit List

Finally just one month of favorites! Here's what made the list in June.

OLEHENRIKSEN Find Your Balance™ Oil Control Cleanser

I got deluxe sample size of this cleanser as a point perk from Sephora. This is a really nice cleanser. I've used mainly in the morning. I love the minty scent and the tingle. Once I rinse it off my face doesn't feel completely stripped of moisture. The other items I apply on my skin after sink right in. Also throughout the day my skin didn't seem as oily. Now I'm curious about the other items in this line. I would definitely repurchase this cleanser.

Lancome Teint Idole Ultra Longwear Makeup Stick SPF 21

Back in November 2016, I mentioned I was done with this foundation when it broke off. Wellllll lol! I had a Sephora gift card that helped offset part of the cost. This is a pricey foundation. So I decided to give it another go. It was favorite and I really did like the foundation. I was just irritated with the "delivery system". This time around I have been very careful with it. This is such an easy foundation to use. Swipe it, blend it and go! I love the finish. Your skin looks like skin. You do't look made up. Let's hope that this one doesn't break off.

OPI Cajun Shrimp

I haven't talked my about nail polish lately. I was going to do a post on some recent favoritism. I still might. I randomly grabbed this polish when I was looking for a bright pink polish. This is definitely not pink lol. It's a very pretty bright coral shade and I love it against my skin tone. I wore it several times in June which you know means it's a favorite. I definitely want to wear this on my toes for my next pedicure.

belief The True Cream Aqua Bomb

I got this from Sephora as a point perk or a gift with purchase. I can't remember which one. This has be on my loves list for a while now. So I was excited to try it in a deluxe sample size first. You get a nice amount of product in this size 0.33 fl oz. I think I have been using it for 2 or 3 weeks and there's' still a good amount of product left. If I can grab another one then I will for my travel bag. This is a gel moisturizer and I've had good results using gel skincare items. This sinks right into my skin, it kind of mattifies my skin and helps keep my oil at bay during the day. It's the right balance of moisture for my oily skin. It also plays well with whatever SPF I put on top of it. I have not used this at night yet. If you're an oily girl looking for a good moisturizer then check this one out. There also a version (The True Cream Moisturizing Bomb) for drier skin that has good reviews. I'm curious to check out to use as a night cream. I will definitely purchase a full size of the Aqua Bomb.

MAC Aaliyah Collection

I know this collection just came out but I love it and I'm already plotting on what backups I'm going to get. Not like I really "need" them but that's not the point LOL! I got everything except the Follow Your Heart lip liner. I loved Aaliyah and was absolutely crushed when she died. So when I heard a collection was coming, I was so excited. If anything has caught your eye in this collection then get it! I would recommend Hot Like... lipstick. It's a fantastic red lipstick. I'd also recommend Li Li's Motor City lipglass. It is the perfect coral colored lip gloss. I also really like the Age Ain't Nothing eyeshadow palette. It's tiny but is a great mix of shades that'll take you from day to night. Now let me finalize my backup shopping list!

Childish Gambino - This is America

 

Courtesy of YouTube/Vevo

I haven't mentioned a song in a while. This song is one I've had on repeat in the car. I mean on repeat for my whole commute going to work. I heard it when he performed on Saturday Night Live. The video however is what brings the song together. The imagery in it is pretty intense. I've only watched the video 2 or 3 times. It's a lot to take in. If you have not heard the song then check it out.

Short and sweet! Now on to my birthday month! *twirls*

May/June 2018 Out of My Face

Now this a good set of empties! I'm excited that a lot of skincare items were used up. I'm really trying to pair down my skincare stash to the items I really like using. Plus I can try a new item or two but not a TON of items.

Here's what I used up in May and June!

• Serious Skincare Pure Pep Fading Fluid
• Make-up Designory Facial Cleanser & Make-up Remover
• Pantene Gold Series Intense Hydrating Oil
• Michael Todd Organic Lemon AHA + DMAE Toner
• Creme of Nature Argan Oil Strenght & Shine Leave-in Conditioner
• Drunk Elephant B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Gel
• philosophy supersize 3-in-1 shower gel in The Ice Cream Man
• Serious Skincare Retinol Renewal Gel Overnight Reveal
• Gold Bond Ultimate Radiance Renewal Cream
• Serious C3 C Serum
• Boscia Blotting Linens in Pink Peppermint 100 sheets
• Palmer's Coconut Oil Hand Cream
• philosophy Whippedd Body Creme in Pure Grace
• Covergril Queen All Day Flawless Foundation in Mocha Q835
• philosophy Body Lotion in Lemon Custard
• Serious Skincare Body Souffle in Ginger
• Serious Skincare Retinol Renewal Gel
• Serious Skincare A Force XR Serum
• NYX Micro Brow Pencil in Chocolate
• Kat Von D Tattoo Liquid Liner in Mad Max Brown 
• The Body Shop Tea Tree Squeaky Clean Scrub
• philosophy Hand Cream in Lemon Custard
• Clinique Take the Day of Cleansing Balm
• Serious Skincare Pure Pep Fading Fluid
• Serious Skincare A Eye XR  Retinol Eye Cream
• Serious Skincare 4 Million IU A Cream XR SPF 30
• Bioderma Sebium Pore Refiner

The Palmer's Coconut Oil Hand Cream is a newcomer to the list. I really liked the scent. Some coconut scents can smell fake or sickeningly sweet. The was nice and light. The hand cream itself was just ok. It wasn't moisturizing enough for my liking. I don't plan on repurchasing it

Does anyone have any dark brown liquid liner recommendations? I have one more Kat Von D one to use up and after that I'm not purchasing it or any other items from her brand due to some recent comments she made.

Let's keep moving right along!

May 2018 Hit List

Let;s talk about some May favorites! This was almost an all drugstore favorites for May bit a couple of high end products snuck in there. Here they are!

Covergirl Queen Major Shade Liquid Lipsticks

I picked up two shades in Rebel and Cake Walk from Amazon. I was moved to order after seeing a tweet from Covergirl showing Cake Walk on a brown skinned woman and it looked gorgeous! Rebel I randomly got. Both are nude shades. I thought Rebel would be darker but it's the perfect my lips but better color. It's a mauvey nude. Cake Walk it a peachy nude. I definitely want to pick up more colors.

Black Radiance True Complexion Loose Setting Powder

This is Black Radiance's take on a yellow/banana powder. I wasn't moved to try others but since their True Complexion setting powder is still one of my favorites I decided to give it a try. I have not used this on my entire face. I've used it to set my under eye concealer which I really don't do. However I have noticed a difference. I feel like my whatever makeup I put on my under eye area (eye liner, eyeshadow and mascara) goes on smoother and lasts longer throughout the day. I picked this up from Target. The Target I went to have a very nice Black Radiance display which I was pleasantly surprised by. Good job Target!

Maybelline Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder in Deep

I picked this powder up from Ulta after I saw crystalis007 rave about it on Instagram. This is a nice powder. It goes on smoothly, it's not cakey and sets my makeup nicely.  If I had to pick between the two I would pick the Cover FX Perfect Setting Powder that I raved about back in January. It's still nice to have a drugstore option. I do prefer the packaging of the Maybelline powder over the Cover FX powder. I feel like it's more secure and product won't spill out.

L'oreal Infallible Pro-Last Waterproof Pencil Eyeliner

I saw several people rave about these new eye pencils from L'Oreal and said why not. I ordered them from Ulta and I got black, brown and grey. These remind me of the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencils . They go on smoothly and don't move. My oily eyes can appreciate these eyeliners. Of the 3 I reached for the black the most which is surprising since I'm a brown eyeliner girl. I may pick up the other 3 shades (Cobalt Blue, Nude and Purple)

Juvia's Place Palette The Festival Palette

When I saw this palette I mentioned to my friend that some of these shadows would be good blush shades. So this is a favorite as blush and not as an eyeshadow palette. I used the shades Izafa (red) and Iri Ji (bright pink) and they were gorgeous on the cheeks. I didn't get around to using Ofala (orange) but I will before the summer is over. Now I need look at the other Juvia's place palettes in my stash and see what other eyeshadows would make good blush shades.

Bobbi Brown Bronzing Powder in Deep

If you've been around long enough then you'd remember that the Bronzing Powder in Deep Chocolate was my holy grail bronzer. The shade was limited edition and it was never re-released much to my dismay. My friend and I were chatting about the bronzer and I said ok let me try the Deep shade and it's really nice. Its very pretty, not too much and it's very natural looking. So yay! Still wish they would do Deep Chocolate again LOL!

COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap

A friend was nice enough to pass this along to me. I used it a few times when I first got and I wasn't sure how I felt about it. I used it again recently at night time with some Drunk Elephant items and I really really like it. It's not a heavy moisturizer. It feels silky going on and it's just the amount of hydration for my skin. It plays well with other moisturizers and face oils too. I think this may too moisturizing for me to use in the daytime but I may play around with it some more as a day time moisturizer. I have seen this on Ulta's website and Amazon. I definitely plan on purchasing this when I use this bottle up.

Lancome Blush Subtil Shimmer in Sunset Coral

The is a blush that has been in and out of my giveaway pile. It's a very pretty deep coral shade and I have reached for it a lot in June. The shimmer is subtle so your cheek doesn't look like a glitter bomb, I also love the simple sleek packaging. I purchased this brand new from a blog sale a long time ago. I don't see the shade listed on Lancome's site. So I guess its been discontinued. Not like I need more blush but I'm curious about their other blush shades. All of them look very pretty *covers eyes*.

And there you have it. Let's see what June brings. I already started the post. Let's see if I can get this one up before mid-June. HAAA!!

Palette Obsession: Tarte, Mally, Colour Pop, Urban Decay

I've gone overboard again with palette purchases *sigh*

tarte tarteist Pro Palette

This tarte palette has been on my radar for a while. Macy's seems to frequently run some kind of beauty promo. I lucked up got this for 30%, free shipping and 6% cash back via Ebates. So score! This is how you shop for beauty products.

Mally Muted Muse Eyshadow Palette

I exchanged the Does of Color mauve palette for this and I couldn't be happier. This is another good everyday palette. I love the compact size too. I may take this with me on my next work trip. My favorite shade so far is Artistry. Me and these kind of matte browns are BFFs lol!

Shayla x ColourPop Perception Shadow Palette

Makeup Shayla created some buzz on Instagram about her next project. Then the announcement came that she did a collab with ColourPop. I'm not the biggest Shayla fan but I did like what I saw in the collection and I do try and support women of color brand collaborations when I can. So I ordered the set that included the entire collection which isn't a bad price for what you get. You can spent that much on one palette. The shades in the palette are very pretty.

Urban Decay Beached Eyeshadow Palette

This is another Instagram made me do it palette. I saw this but wasn't really checking for it until I saw the swatches. Plus I'm really liking the Urban Decay palettes packaged like this. I was going to wait until it went on sale to scoop this up. But I had an item to return to Ulta which I always end up doing an exchange. The browns and blues in this palette are stunning. This is another palette I would travel with for work.

After this I think a palette no buy is in order. Let's see if it holds since palettes are my makeup product weakness.

March/April 2018 Hit List

I was all set to do my March favorites and then I kept using a lot of the items into April. Then work travel started back up again and voilà, we have another combined favorites post. Hopefully this will be the last one. Still trying the get my blogging mojo back.

So here it goes!

tarte Maneater Mascara

This has been my go to mascara. I love it on its own and mixing it with Lights, Camera Lashes or the Tarteist Lash Paint mascara. It gives me volume, length and curl. It may be taking the place of  Lights, Camera, Lashes as my favorite tarte mascara *gasp*

Vaseline Intensive Care Cocoa Radiant Lotion

I got this to try out before trying their body butter that I raved about back in November. When I first used it was just ok. I went back to it in March to use up. The more I used it, the more I liked it on my body and hands. My skin can get really dry and itchy especially in the cooler months. This lotion helped keep my skin happy! I've already purchased another bottle and I also picked up their oil. I think I have found my go to body moisturizer products! Yay!

L'Oreal La Palette Nude 1 & 2

These two palettes have been on the chopping block for a while now. When I added them to the rotation to use and I really enjoyed using them. These two palettes are super easy to use and I think they're great for everyday looks. My eye looks just looked good without a whole lot of effort. I've really been into simple looks lately. I debated on traveling with #1 palette for work. I know people have crapped on these two palettes but I think they're really good. The eyeshadows are pigmented, smooth and easy to blend. They are pricey for drugstore BUT L'Oreal is on sale all time and you can use rewards dollars that your favorite drugstore offers. So check these out.

MAC Extra Dimension Pleasure Model Blush

This blush is described as a "soft terracotta with pearl". I always reach for this blush once the weather gets warmer. Even though now it seems like the weather doesn't know what it wants to do lol. Since I have been wearing warmer nude lippes this is the perfect blush to wear. It's an easy blush to wear. It's not too much but a nice bit of warmth on your cheeks.

Essie Good to Go Top Coat

I'm always up to try a new quick dry top coat. I picked this up from Ulta and I do like it. I like that it doesn't make my nail polish shrink. I've noticed this with some other quick dry top coats. It hasn't gotten goopy on me either. I would definitely repurchase it.

Creme of Nature Argan Oil Leave-in Conditioner

This was a random Target purchase. I've been looking a product to replace Wen's Replenishing Treatment Mist. I've used this on my hair wet and try and I really like. I've already purchase another bottle. On dry hair it's a good refresher and on wet hair it's a good detangler and it gives my hair the extra moisture it desperately needs. I have my eye on some other products I want to try in this line.

Pantene Gold Series Intense Hydrating Oil

After speaking with a friend about this line, I picked up the oil and the deep conditioner and the butter cream. Of the three items I've tried the oil is my favorite. It's good stuff! It's thicker than most hair oils I used. I would say it's more like a serum. It's very hydrating but doesn't make my hair greasy. Any time I see a deal or coupon I scoop up another bottle.

Suave Professionals Coconut Oil Infusion Damage Repair Shampoo & Conditioner

Another friend recommendation. A lot of coconut hair products do a number on my hair. My hair ends up dry and brittle. This was not the case with this shampoo and conditioner! I've used the conditioner more like a deep conditioner and my hair loves it! My hair is soft and more manageable after using these products. Also you cannot beat the price. I scooped these up from Target and I believe they were $2.99 each. I'm sure your can find them cheaper at other stores but Target is my jam lol. I'm curious about the other shampoo and conditioners in the Infusions line. Also the Suave coconut body lotion was a fav of mine back in the day. I love the scent.

Palmer's Ultra Gentle Facial Cleansing Oil

I think I have found my favorite drugstore cleansing oil! Woohoo! I think I saw this on Instagram then took to Walgreens to see if I could find it. What I like about this oil is that it's not super thick and it doensn't take forever to rinse off.

Palmer's Micro Fine Exfoliating Facial Scrub

Pick this up with the cleansing oil. I use this after I was my face and my face feels so soft,, smooth and looks brighter. Whatever serums and moisturizers I use afterwards sick right into my skin. Also this is not an abrasive scrub. The beads in it are very fine and do not feel harsh on the skin. I think the "base" of the scrub helps to which is nice and creamy.

Urban Decay Hi-Fi Shine Lip Gloss

I have 4 of these glosses. I was gifted 3 in Jawbreaker, Snapped and Shadowheart. I picked up 1993 with a recent 20% off coupon at Ulta. These are so good I want more *head palm*. They go on nicely on the lip, nicely pigmented and feel good on the lips. There isn't much more that you can ask for from a lip gloss. They have a slight minty tingle to the lips but it's not uncomfortable. Think I may check out a pinky nude or maybe a red *shifty eyes*

And a quick mention. I've been eyeing the brand Elemis for a while now. During my work trip I picked up this set that was on sale at a spa. I used the item while I was away and I thoroughly enjoyed both the cleansing balm and the moisturizer. I keep eyeballing QVC for a good set to pick up.

One items I did not like is the Studio 35 Beauty Brush & Sponge Cleaner. I actually picked this up from Walgreens back in January during my work trip. I forgot my alcohol that I used to spot clean my brushes. I picked this up and it did the job for the most part to spot clean my brushes but it's "technically" not for spot cleaning brushes. When I got back home I did use it twice as a brush cleaner. I feel like you have to use a lot of product to get the brushes I used for foundation, concealer and face powder clean. Then for giggles I went back and used the Dawn dish soap that I typically used to clean my brushes and there was still product coming out after using the Studio 35 cleaner. Also I feel that it's pricey. I think it was $8. I know it's cheaper than brush cleansers you find at Ulta or Sephora but compared to Dawn dish soap I can get for $1, it's pricey.

And a quick update to my recent palette obsession play. After using the L'Oreal palettes, the MUA palette was just ok to me and I'm just going to toss it. I've had it for a while. So there's no point in passing it along to someone. I went back and forth about the Dose of Colors Marvelous Mauves palette. At first I was like no I didn't like it but then I ended up liking the two looks I did with it. But again I went back to the L'Oreal palettes. Specifically the purple/pink tones and I thought about other shadows I already have. I did use one of my Laura Mercier palettes with it as well. I wanted to be able to use it on it's own. So it went back to Ulta and I exchange it for another palette. You'll see what in my next palette obsessions post.

Phew this was a long one! Let's see what May brings.

March/April 2018 Out of My Face

Didn't use a lot up over these last couple a months. Dah well.

Here are the goods!

• Lancome Advanced Genifique 2.5oz
• philosophy Snow Angel Hand Cream 
• Serious Skincare A Force XR 2oz
• Covergirl Queen All Day Flawless Foundaton
• Anastasia Brow Wiz in Ebony
• Vaseline Intenisve Care Cocoa Raidiant Lotion
• CVS Beauty 360 Cocoa Butter Petroleum Jelly
• Serious Skincare Pure Pep Creme Riche
• One 'n Only Argan Oil Spray Treatment
• Skindinavia The Makeup Finishing Spray .66oz (2)
• No 7 Airbrush Away Primer .33oz
• Serious Skincare Pure Pep Fading Fluid 2oz
• Serious Skincare Pure Pep Fading Fluid Pads 60 count
• Serious Skincare Vanilla Veil Body Souffle 8oz
• Bath & Body Works Hand Soap with Olive Oil in Citron & Sandalwood 
• Botanics Nourishing Face Oil
• Tarte Shape Tape Concealer in Deep
• Vaseline Intensive Care Cocoa Radiant Soothing Body Butter
• Naturelle Luxe Majestic Oil Hydrating Repair Masque

Let's see what I can use up in the next couple of months.

Palette Obsession: Tarte, Morphe, MUA, Dose of Colors

Hey. Hey there. How ya doing?

Happy April! I cannot believe it's April. I feel like it was just Christmas like a month ago.

The month is halfway over but I will play around with the tarte Tarlette in Bloom, MUA Nude Eye Shadow, Dose of Colors Marvelous Mauves and the Morphe Jaclyn Hill palettes. The tarte and Dose of Colors palettes are new to me. I've already done a few looks with the Tarlette in Bloom palette and of course I'm digging it. I've also purchased The Festival palette from Juvia's Place. So I may throw it in the mix. These palettes may carry me into May since work travel will be starting up for me again soon *head palm*. I may do a post of the makeup I take with me. Next up will be my March Hit List.

Play time go!

January/February 2018 Hit List

Different name but still talking about favorites. Some months I have more than 5 items I want to talk about. Some months there maybe only 2 things I want to talk about. And since February is almost out the door, I decided to go ahead and combine January and February. Hopefully this won't be too long.

Here's what made the list for January and February!

Bath & Body Works Exfoliating Hang Soap in Toasted Vanilla Chai

I picked this up during the semi-annual sale at the end of last year. This hand soap is expensive! It's $7 and it was half off which is still a lot. But I had a coupon and a gift card. It smells really good and I love the exfoliation in it. It made my hand super soft. I would get it again when it's on sale and I can add a coupon. I'm just sayin!

Drunk Elephant Beste™ No. 9 Jelly Cleanser

A friend was nice enough to give this to me to try. I joked with her watch I'm going to like it since it's pricey. She has raved about this cleanser. I have it in the old packaging. It's available at Sephora and the price tag for this cleanser is $34. Sure enough I really like it. It's a gel cleanser and gel cleansers have been my favorite lately. I've used it morning and evening. It cleanses your skin without stripping it and my face feels nice and smooth after using. I said I was going to repurchase it when I used it up, but my cleanser stash is not lacking right now lol. I also like how the Drunk Elephant line doesn't have a ton of products. It's a well curated skin care line. I'm debating on taking it with me for my next work trip.

Neutral Eyeshadow Palettes
Laura Mercier Artist Palette, Bobbi Brown Chocolate Palette, Mally Nude Attitude Palette

Nude/neutral eyeshadow looks have been my go to for January and February. They're just easy when you just want to look pulled together and get out the door in a decent amount of time. Don't get me wrong I still love colorful eye looks but this has what I've been reaching for lately. The Laura Mercier palette kicked it off. I took it with my on a work trip I had in January. This palette will be a forever favorite. The Bobbi Brown palette is a past favorite that I hadn't reached for and debated on when I was clearing out products. It doesn't look like much but it's so pretty on the eyes. They are nude/naked shadows that I can wear. Similar palettes that have come out are so light that the shades don't show up against my skin tone. I don't have that issue with this palette. I hinted at the Mally palette in a previous post when I mentioned playing around with her palettes. It's an awesome palette with warm and cool neutrals along with Slate and Carbon to do a classic smokey eye.

Vaseline Deep Moisture Vitamin E Petroleum Jelly Cream

One of my favorite beauty folks The Style and Beauty Doctor mentioned this product on her blog and Instagram. I looked in various stores and could not find it. I found it on Amazon and I had it saved in my cart for a while. I saw this 4.5oz tube on Target's website and said let me try it in this size first. I used it on my body and I did like. I LOVED it as a hand cream! I'm very picky about what I use on my hands. It absorbs nicely and it's not greasy. The size is perfect for travel. I already have another tube in my Target cart right now. I think I've tried the Petroleum Jelly Cream that's at The Dollar Tree. The next time I'm in there I want to double check and see where it's made.

The Body Shop Body Mist in Shea

I randomly reached for this one morning and it has been my go to scent for the last couple of months. It's described as a subtle, sweet, nutty scent. I picked mine up from Ulta. I forgot to snap a pic of  this *head palm*. Google is your friend LOL!!!!!!

Nude Lippies
MAC Strip Me Down, Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb in Fenty Glow, Maybelline Vivid Hot Lacquer in Unreal, Neutrogena Moisture Smooth Color Stick in Berry Brown

Along with neutral/nude eye looks, neutral lippies have been my go to the last couple of months. Nude lippies used to scare me. There's been a lot of trial and error but this mix of lippies I feel comfortable in wearing. Also I can put them on and forget about them. They were nice throughout the day and I don't feel the need to check on them or reapply.

Lip Combo - MAC Viva Glam Taraji P. Henson II & Buxom Lipgloss in Sarina

When I saw the MAC Viva Glam Taraji II lippies I was like of meh about them. I'm funny when it comes to bronze and metallic shades on my lips. One of my friends has both the lipstick and lipglass and they are her go to. I randomly saw it and searched for and could not find it anywhere. So I instantly have FOMO (fear of missing out). So I keep searching about found the lipstick on Belk's website. I could find the gloss anywhere. When I got my hands on it I wore the lipstick alone and it was fine. I looked through my stash and decide to pair it with Buxom's Sarina and was like yeeessssss! This lip combo has been a quick go to. It's bronzey chocolatey goodness! The lipstick is described as a deep coppery brown with gold pearl shade. Sarina is described as a chocolate sparkle.

MAC Viva Glam Sia

I usually have a red lippie that I'll have in rotation for a while. MAC Viva Glam Sia is matte and is described as a bright yellow red. I picked mine up from Ulta.

Cover FX Perfect Setting Powder in Deep

I picked this up at Ulta during their 21 Days of Beauty. It has been the powder that I have constantly been reaching for and I like it so much that I am going to pick up the pressed version for travel. It sets whatever foundation I use nicely and my skin just looks good. It also helps keep my oil at bay during the day. Hey that rhymes lol! It's good powder. Check it out if you're looking for a new one.

Mini Happy Planner

I have talked about planner stuff much but I'm still a full blown planner addict LOL! I decided to the give the mini happy planner a go this year. I originally got it for budgeting and money matters. Then I decided to use it as my on the go planner and I love it. It's just enough for me to note what I need to and keep it moving. I also pick a deluxe cover for it and love it as well. I'm debating on using a mini as my main personal planner for 2019. I got another classic happy planner and I still love it. I'm doing more spreads in it that I did last year. But it may be "too much" for me. I using a big happy planner for work and I really like since I have a ton of stuff to note and keep track of. I created an Instagram just for planner stuff. Follow me if it moves ya! Also Me & My Big Ideas just released their 2018-2019 18 month planners. Check them out if you're looking for a new planner!

A couple of products I didn't like are the Silk Elements Luxury Moisturizing Leave-In Hair Creme and the Serious Skincare PLUSH 80K Brush. The hair creme I picked up form Sally Beauty when I was in desperate need of something to moisturize my hair. This creme has honey, shea and silk. Awesome ingredients right? It seems amaze and looks nice and rich. It did absolutely nothing for my hair. It seemed like it dried my hair out even more. I was so disappointed. The face brush from Serious Skincare came with a Today's Special of a trio of their glycolic cleaners. I've see nthe brush before and didn't have an interest to try it. I've tried a couple of times and I'm not a fan. Its battery operated, the brush is small and I'm used to the timing aspect of my Clarisonic. I also like the brush head of my Clarisonic. I may play around with it again. We'll see.

Let's see what's what for March!