Beach Bag Essentials

☀️A big beach bag
I made this one from the Bernat Cottage Bag pattern {shown in picture}.  I also like the Medano Beach pattern.

The LL Bean Boat and Tote bags are a favorite as well.  I love customizing the strap colors and monogram text and thread color.  I love a good monogram!

☀️Neutrogena Beach Defense Sunscreen Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Smells like pineapple {shown in picture}!  This doesn't leave any greasy feeling upon application and protects my freckles amazingly.

☀️Aveeno Protect + Hydrate - SPF 30

I use this on my face, it's not as greasy and doesn't clogs pores {shown in picture}.  They used to make a specific face version that looked exactly the same so I have just stick with this fory face and still love it.

☀️Banana Boat Deep Tanning Oil - SPF 15

Tanning is a big no-no for me, but I use this if its not midday or too much crazy sun out.  I like that the oil gives a moisturizing effect and it smells great {shown in picture}.

☀️Australian Gold Continuous Spray with Bronzer SPF 30 or Spray Gel with Bronzer SPF 15
I love the protection these give and the bronze boost they add to your skin.  Tan in a bottle!  With SPF!

☀️Chapstick Active with SPF 25-50

Neutrogena Lip Moisturizer with SPF 15

Hawaiian Tropic Lip Balm Stick Sunscreen with SPF 45+
I am a bit addicted to chapsticks in general and always have a good handful or two in my purse.  I love protecting every part of my skin I can, so having a chapstick with SPF is a great option for moisturizing and protecting my lips at the same time.

☀️Nalgene Water Bottle - filled with water (I have many but my favorite is a Life is Good one that is blue with a yellow sun that's no longer available but this one is similar)

☀️Books: Wheel of Time, Game of Thrones {shown in picture}.  I am never without a book and the beach is one of my favorite places to read.  I don't get nearly as much reading done now that we have Baby BeautyFreckled running around the beach with us, but we love watching her play!

☀️Towel - I love my koi towel from Target

☀️Backpack Chairs - similar to these.  Great if you have to walk from a parking lot.  We have a drive on pass now, but always keep these in our car.

 

☀️Foldable Blanket from Picnic Time - ours is similar to this one and was a gift with our names embroidered on it.

BONUS:

☀️👧🏻 For our Baby BeautyFreckled:
Babyganics Mineral-Based Baby Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
We have been so pleased with this sunscreen.  It's not greasy and it doesn't run and get in her eyes.  We will definitely continue to use the Babyganics brand.

L'Oreal Magic Nude Liquid Powder Bare Skin Perfecting Makeup

As we are getting into the full swing of summer, I find myself wearing less makeup than I would in other seasons.  I've had the L'Oréal Magic Nude foundation for about a year now and it's fantastic for summer, so I wanted to share it with you all!

L'Oréal Magic Nude Liquid Powder Bare Skin Perfecting Makeup
Claims from lorealparisusa.com:
Liquid to Powder.  Perfect Un-Makeup Look.  Lightweight.
Get the ultimate un-makeup look with Magic Nude Liquid Powder Bare Skin Perfecting Makeup with SPF 18.  Revolutionary liquid transforms on contact, leaving a soft powder like finish.  This foundation is so amazingly lightweight it's like wearing no makeup at all!  Just shake and apply – it’s magic!
Application: Shake Well.  For best makeup result, pour just a few drops onto fingers and apply directly onto skin.  Not recommended for use with a sponge or brush.

Shades: 8 Shades
Product Amount:  0.91 fluid ounces
Price:  $8.39 [Target]
SPF: SPF 18

My Shade: Natural Buff 318 (5th out of 8 shades)

       L'Oreal Magic Nude - Natural Buff

This is one of my favorite drugstore foundations for any season but it's especially perfect for summer.  The liquid to powder formula is so lightweight it feels like second skin.  You can barely see or feel foundation on your face.  The finish sets so smoothly and flawlessly.  The coverage is a light-medium and can be built up, while it evens out skin tone but isn't heavy at all like some medium to full coverage foundations.  All the claims are definitely true on this one!

There is a light SPF of 18 in the Magic Nude which is low enough to not create too much white-cast in pictures, but enough to give some coverage if you're out and about on a sunny summery day.

The directions state just to apply a few drops to your hand and apply to your face with your fingers, and that's exactly what I usually do.  It's not recommended with a brush or sponge.

I have combination to oily skin, especially in my t-zone, so this is a great happy medium for me in summer, when I tend to get a tad more oily if I am out in the heat or sun.  I don't need a setting powder with this foundation, but you can powder oily areas over it as well without it being super cakey.

L'Oréal hit it out of the park with this one, and I will definitely be repurchasing this and wearing it all summer long.

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My Foundation Shade Comparisons:
MAC -- NC 20-25
MAC Studio Fix Powder -- NC30
Makeup Forever HD -- 130 Warm Ivory
Kat Von D Lock-It Tattoo Foundation -- Light 48
Kat Von D Lock-It Powder Foundation -- Medium 52
Urban Decay Naked -- 3.0
Bare Minerals -- Medium Beige N20
Revlon Colorstay Combo/Oily -- Medium Beige 240
Revlon Colorstay Whipped -- Medium Beige 250
Neutrogena Healthy Skin -- Nude
Neutrogena Nourishing Long Wear -- Nude 40
Neutrogena Mineral Sheers Powder Foundation -- Nude 40
Maybelline Fit Me! Matte - Nude Beige 125 / Buff Beige 130 (powder)
Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse -- Nude (Light 4)
Maybelline Dream Smooth -- Nude Beige 180
Maybelline Dream Wonder -- Nude 40
L'Oreal Magic Nude -- Natural Buff 318
L'Oreal True Match -- N3 Natural Buff
CoverGirl Stay Luminous -- Buff Beige 825

Bladez Fitness Master GS Indoor Cycle

{This post includes affiliate links.  Affiliate links are where I make a portion of sales from links used, which helps keep Beauty Freckled going.  Thanks for your support!}

I have loved spinning since I discovered it in high school and it was always one of my favorite classes to take at the gym.  Being a stay-at-home mom I have to fit in my exercise around my daughter's nap schedule or when my husband is home so I decided to invest I a good indoor cycle.  I love the flexibility of being able to jump on my bike when she's sleeping.  I have a mountain bike for outdoors (Haro Flightline S in Smashing Pumpkin) but I haven't been brave enough to use my clip-in bike shoes with it yet, and it's also nice not having to worry about it being too hot, rainy, cold, or snowy during the day.

Here is the bike I chose:

Bladez Fitness Master GS Indoor Cycle
Specs from Bladez website:
- 45lb Flywheel gives a natural feel and consistent momentum.
- Smooth, Quiet Belt Drive ensures a silent workout.
- Oversized Steel Frame for Strength and Stability.
- Adjustable Top Down Resistance with Emergency Brake.
- Fore/Aft and Up/Down Adjustable Seat and Handlebars for a comfortable fit and proper posture.
- Large Diameter Racing Style Handlebars.
- Aluminum Pedals with Toe Baskets
- Anatomically Designed Saddle
- Easy to read LCD Console with Motivational Feedback.
- Transportation wheels allows for easy storage between workouts.

I ordered the Master GS from Wayfair and it came pretty quickly via FedEx.  It wasn't in too many parts (the frame is all one piece) so it was pretty much putting the seat, pedals, handlebars, and flywheel on.  The box and frame pieces are very, very heavy, so it's definitely durable.  The chain cover came cracked upon arrival but we contacted Wayfair and they got a new part sent immediately from Bladez.

The only con: I am 5' tall exactly and the seat was just slightly too high even at the lowest setting.  My husband ended up having to sand off the little bump that stopped the seat at the end so I could get another inch or two closer to the pedals so my legs weren't fully extended.  So if you are around my height, just be aware that you may have to do a little work to get this bike to work for you, but it was worth it for me.

The specs online mentioned Dual Sided SPD compatible pedals with toe cage, but it arrived with just caged pedals.  I specifically picked this model because of the upgraded computer monitor display and the SPD pedals so I could keep using my Shimano clip-in shoes I used for indoor classes at the gym.  I contacted customer service and they sent me the SPD pedals at no cost. The customer service at Bladez was amazing about the situation and I have a lot of respect for them honoring their website.

The Master GS has every function you could want between all the movable seat and handlebars to the display which shows Speed (mph), RPM, Calories, Watts, Distance, time, and is compatible with my Polar Heart Monitor (it doesn't always show the same number as my watch read-out for some reason - it doesn't bother me).

Despite the two little hiccups with the seat height and the pedals, I have been so pleased with this indoor cycle.  It reminds me of being in the spinning room at my old gym, which had a painted mural of cyclists like something out of the Tour de France.  I can make the ride as easy or as hard as I like, spend as much time as I can that day, and jump back on later if I please!  The frame is super sturdy, doesn't rock at all, and will last such a long time.  It was truly a great investment for me, and if you love cycling or are looking to train indoors if you are an outdoor cyclist, the Bladez Fitness bikes are definitely worth the investment.

Update 2/4/2016:  The Bladez Master GS Indoor Cycle is now available on Amazon.  When I ordered it before I don't believe it was, and there weren't any reviews.  Please feel free to let me know if you have any questions!

** Please consult with your physician before starting any fitness regimen or diet plan.  My advice and reviews are not the same as medical advice and are for research and entertainment purposes only.  Exercise with caution.  **

Nair Shower Power Hair Remover Cream with Moroccan Argan Oil

{This post includes affiliate links.  Affiliate links are where I make a portion of sales from links used, which helps keep Beauty Freckled going.  Thanks for your support!}

It's almost Memorial Day which means the official start of beach time.  Having dark hair I hate the little baby fuzzies around my belly button (gross, I know) especially during swimsuit season.  So I have used Nair to just whisk those little buggers away.  Adios, fellas!

Nair Shower Power Hair Remover Cream with Moroccan Argan Oil
From Naircare.com
Beautiful, Smooth & Silky Skin Infused with 100% natural Moroccan Argan Oil and the sweet scent of Orange Blossom, our new Max formula gives you long-lasting, soft skin. At a Glance Works while you shower Unique Shower Power™ technology, stays on in the shower.  Lasts longer than shaving.  Effective even on coarse hair.  Dermatologist tested

Price: $8.99 Target

13 ounces
So what you do is using the smooth side of the sponge, apply a thin layer on the disred areas.  Lets stand one minute before getting in the shower, then get in and continue with your showering routine (for up to 10 total minutes of application time) while trying to keep the water to your back for the most part.  Then remove with the bumpy textured side of the sponge.  Voila!  Easy peasy, and it's a two-for-one since you can shower while it's working!

This version smells much much better than Nair used to, but still has that underlying "Nair smell."  I haven't tried this anywhere else but it works great for those fuzzies you don't want hanging around for the beach!

Jordana 12 HR Made To Last Liquid Eyeliner Pencil

I have been trying different longwearing/waterproof eyeliners lately trying to find the best one for me.  I heard good things about the Jordana 12 HR Eyeliner, I picked it up on sale at Walgreens.

Jordana 12 HR Made To Last Liquid Eyeliner Pencil - claims from Jordana

• Intense, Instant Color Eyeliner that is Made to Last
• Smooth-Gliding Pencil For Precise Application
• Long-Lasting (Up to 12 hour wear)
• Water & Transfer Resistant

Available in 6 Shades, 0.04 oz/1.2g Price: $2.49 [Walgreens - on sale often]

I was not impressed with this pencil.  Being waterproof you would think this would be a good option for the waterline, but for me it was truly terrible.  It made my eyes super watery so everything just smudged and ran down underneath my eyes - forget about waterproof.  I even tried setting it with an eyeshadow and that didn't help at all. 

For regular lining, I found it very hard to get a thinner line as it didn't sharpen very well for me.  Every time I sharpened it, it never got a sharp point again.  It would just take the outer 'pencil shavings' away and create a dull stump of smushed, clumpy kohl.  Forget about trying to do a cat eye or flick at the end...no control.  This pencil is just too soft and doesn't hold up well at all.  I know kohl pencils are softer, but this one was just too soft and had no shape.

I am trying to use this liner up, but I really don't like it.  I would stick with just the upper lash line with this one and not mess with the waterline/tightline.  Considering I got it on sale for around two bucks, I might just toss it.  I'll stick with other liners, and love gels for that cat eye look much better.

BeautyBlender vs Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge

Today I am going to compare the BeautyBlender Original and the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge  After I started watching a lot of YouTube videos, I often wondered if I needed a beautyblender. I used regular makeup wedge sponges [these from Target] and they seemed to work ok for me, so what was the hype really all about?

beautyblender Original
From beautyblender.com:
The world’s first edgeless, non-disposable, high-definition cosmetic sponge applicator. The unique shape and exclusive material available only with beautyblender® ensures impeccable, streak-free application with minimum product waste. Use it with primers, foundations, powders, cream blushes, and any other complexion product.

beautyblender® features an open cell structure that fills with small amounts of water when wet. This allows the sponge to be “full” so that the makeup product sits on top of the sponge rather than being absorbed, allowing you to use less product every time. When wet, beautyblender® doubles in size and becomes even softer, returning to its original size when it air dries.

Price: $19.95 [Sephora]

Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge
From Realtechniques.com:
Optimize your beauty routine with this 3-in-1 multi-functional sponge.
Rounded sides blend large areas of the face with a repeated dabbing or “stippling” motion.
Precision tip covers blemishes and imperfections.
Flat edge for the contours around the eyes and nose.

Its versatile design evenly blends makeup for a smooth, enhanced finish.

Made from polyurethane foam which is latex free.

For best results, replace the miracle complexion sponge every 1-3 months.

Price: $4.49for one; Two-pack $10.99 [Target]

So, on to my personal comparison...

Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge is bigger both wet and dry and doesn't gain as much size after being wet like the beautyblender.  The beautyblender almost doubles in size once wet.

Dry

  

Wet

The beautyblender is a true teardrop or egg shape with a pointed end while the RT Miracle is a tear/egg with one flat side for larger parts of the face. I honestly don't miss that flat side on the beautyblender and don't find myself using it much as I just bounce the rounded egg side on my face to apply my foundation.

Both stain when used with product. The RT Miracle for some reason looks like dark or blackish stains where as the beautyblender just takes on some of the true foundation color.

The RT Miracle seems to soak up a bit more product than the beautyblender, which seems to just hold it on the surface. So there is a bit less waste with the beautyblender.

Both hold up well after washing and dry pretty quickly. I used the Dr. Bronner's Pure Castile Liquid Soap [from Target here] in Peppermint or Lavender to wash them.  {Side note: how amazing is Dr. Bronner's?!  Literally good for EVERYTHING!}

Overall, both are great sponges. I prefer the bouncier texture of the beautyblender and the less waste of product aspect.  However, the size and price of the Real Techniques are big perks.  Seeing that a two-pack of the RT Miracle pack is only $10.99, you could get almost 4 Miracle Sponges for the price of one beautyblender.  I do reach for the RT one more daily because I don't mind it getting dirty or tearing.

So if you don't want to shell out $20 for one single sponge, I think the Real Techniques is a very close second to the beautyblender

CoverGirl Outlast Stay Luminous Natural Glow Foundation

CoverGirl Outlast Stay Luminous Natural Glow Foundation
From CoverGirl.com:
Outlast Stay Luminous Foundation’s oil-free, non-greasy formula gives your skin a natural luminosity that lasts all day!  Perfect for achieving radiant skin, this all day foundation hydrates skin while providing flawless coverage.

Shades: 7 Shades

Product Amount: 1 Fluid Ounce

Price: $11 [CVS]

My Shade: 825 Buff Beige

The CoverGirl Stay Luminous Foundation is a new foundation that is supposed to be a more dewy version of their Stay Fabulous 3-in-1 Foundation.  The 3-in-1 is a bit more matte and would probably be better for normal to oily skin types, versus the Stay Luminous which might be geared more towards Normal to Oily (kind of similar to how the Maybelline Fit Me! Foundation line is set up now - read my review of it here).  I haven't tried the CoverGirl 3-in-1 but after trying the Stay Luminous, I probably will.

The first time I put the Stay Luminous foundation, I wasn't sure how I felt about it.  I am a bit wary of luminous or dewy foundations as I have more oily skin and thought this made my skin look more shiny than it naturally is.  I used the e.l.f. Studio Mineral Infused Primer in Green underneath, and set it with the Rimmel Stay Matte Powder hoping that would help, but still had a lot of shine around my nose.  I decided not to give up on it because many people with my skin type seemed to say this is one of the better dewy foundations for us oily folks.

The second and third time, I topped the Stay Luminous with the NYX Set It Don't Fret It Powder and the Revlon Colorstay Powder respectively (still with the e.l.f. primer under).  Each time I liked the foundation more.  The less powder I used, the more I liked this, which was the opposite of what I would've thought.  The Revlon powder looked best and the least cakey, in my opinion.  It set the foundation, didn't look too heavy or too much, and let enough of the dewy look through to have a beautiful summertime glow without looking greasy.

As for the claims, I agree with them.  This is definitely medium to full coverage, and covered everything including redness on my cheeks.  It photographed really well, and didn't look shiny or greasy in pictures.  Even in person, I think it looked great and not super heavy for being such good coverage.

I definitely could've used the next shade darker, Medium Beige 842, as this is just a teeny bit light, but I could use this shade to glow up my skin in the winter.  I am also going mix it with some matte foundations to make them look less flat.

Overall, the Cover Girl Outlast Stay Luminous isn't my Holy Grail, but it's growing on me each time I wear it.  I have mostly matte or satin/natural foundations, and I like having something that's different from my usual go-to foundations.  Not having many super dewy options probably was the reason I wasn't sure I liked the finish at first, but once I got used to that "inner glow," it definitely grew on me.

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My Foundation Shade Comparisons:
MAC -- NC 20-25
MAC Studio Fix Powder -- NC30
Makeup Forever HD -- 130 Warm Ivory
Kat Von D Lock-It Tattoo Foundation -- Light 48
Kat Von D Lock-It Powder Foundation -- Medium 52
Urban Decay Naked -- 3.0
Bare Minerals -- Medium Beige N20
Revlon Colorstay Combo/Oily -- Medium Beige 240
Revlon Colorstay Whipped -- Medium Beige 250
Neutrogena Healthy Skin -- Nude
Neutrogena Nourishing Long Wear -- Nude 40
Neutrogena Mineral Sheers Powder Foundation -- Nude 40
Maybelline Fit Me! Matte - Nude Beige 125 (found.) / Buff Beige 130 (powder)
Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse -- Nude (Light 4)
Maybelline Dream Smooth -- Nude Beige 180
Maybelline Dream Wonder -- Nude 40
L'Oreal Magic Nude -- Natural Buff 318
L'Oreal True Match -- N3 Natural Buff
CoverGirl Stay Luminous -- Buff Beige 825

Conair Xtreme Instant Heat™ Multisized Hot Rollers

I have pretty thick, but very straight hair so every once in a while I like to throw it in rollers to give it some oomph.  I am currently on my second set of rollers and I really like the second set even more than the first.  I believe the first were by Remington and had color coordinated clips to go with the different sized rollers.  Those lasted me high school and all the way through college and I only got this new set because I had broken so many of the clips (I realized now you can order more).

Conair Xtreme Instant Heat™ Multisized Hot Rollers - Claims from Conair site:

• Fast Heat-up - 75 seconds
• Dual heat comes from both the clip and the roller for extra hold
• Ceramic technology – for better heat transfer and longer-lasting curls
• 20 ceramic multi-sized rollers – for beautiful curls and volume
  • 8 jumbo rollers (1¼")
  • 6 large rollers (1")
  • 6 medium rollers (¾")
• 20 heated clips
• Stay-cool end rings
• Ready dot

Price: $37.99 [Target]

These heat up really fast, which I love.  I don't always use the clip heater, because there are only three slots and it takes a while to constantly replace clips to heat before using them.  The only downside is that the clips can be a tad slippery.  The first set I had the clips held better, but left more of a dent in the curl, so everything comes at a price (the clips were this kind by Remington).  The Xtreme Instant Heat Rollers don't leave a noticeable dent.  If you have short hair, some of the sizes may be too big, but I do like the assortment and think the value of these is really good.
I leave the curlers in my hair for anywhere from 10 to 45 minutes.  My hair is super straight and doesn't hold a curl very long, so I keep them in longer if I want maximum hold and volume for a longer time.

Overall, I love that these heat up fast, have plenty of options on sizes, and give my hair a little extra volume.  You can tailor what you want by putting them in your hair slightly damp, or with some mousse, or with a shine spray depending on the look you are going for.

May 2015 Favorites

Here are my May 2015 favorites...

Neutrogena Mineral Sheers Powder Foundation [SPF 20] - Nude 40
$11.99

As the weather is getting warmer and we have more sunny days, sometimes I don't like wearing a full face of foundation so powder versions are a great alternative.  I love this Neutrogena one...even better than the Kat Von D Lock-It Powder Foundation!  I keep coming back to the Neutrogena Mineral Sheers because it's light on the skin, gives a good even coverage and sets nicely where I don't look like a face full of powder and ghostly.

NYC Sun'n'Bronze Bronzing Powder - Hamptons Radiance [706]
$4.49

Swipe your brush through all the colors for a bronzey glow or just certain strips for highlighting.

elf High Definition Undereye Setting Powder - Sheer
$3.00

For $3 you wouldn't think this would do anything fantastic, but trust me, it does.  This little guy sets your under eyes to a beautiful airbrushed finish!  I use it with the Real Techniques setting brush (review here).

Maybelline 24HR Color Tattoo - Bad to the Bronze
$5.29

The perfect summer color - and I mean for any look or outfit or occasion!  You don't even need any other shadows for crease, etc.

Tweezerman Animal Print Slant Tweezers - Zebra
$26.00

Summertime leads to a but more attention to maintainable - and brows are no exception.  I have had these for years now and they are still just as sharp as the day I bought them.  The price may look outrageous but no other tweezers come close or pick up those little itty bitties as well.  They'll last a lifetime!

L.A.Girl Glazed Lip Paints

Everyone has been saying these L.A. Girl Glazed Lip Paints are dupes for the Tarte Melted Liquified Lipsticks.  At $4 vs $21 - it's a big savings!  I haven't tried the Tarted Melted version yet, because of the price tag, but read on for my review of the L.A. Girl Glazed versions.

I talked about picking up the Glazed Lip Paints in my Drugstore.com haul here.  Here are the three colors I chose to test out:

top to bottom: Peony, Blushing, Pin-Up

L.A. Girl Glazed Lip Paints

Claims From lagirlusa.com:

"Making their much anticipated debut, Glazed Lip Paints give the intensely pigmented appearance of a lipstick, with the ease and glossy finish of a lipgloss. Glazed Collection includes 18 of the most sought-after, trendsetting colors this season while providing long lasting, hyper glossy, ultra rich color to lips.

This proven iconic product offers shades that range from nudes to brights to deep berries. Cool and nourish your lips with the added benefits of vitamin E and peppermint oil. The Glazed Lip Collection is an instant must-have that accurately portrays the color trends expected to be seen on the runway. A precision tip applicator is provided to facilitate application."

Shades: 18 Shades

Product Size: 0.4 fluid ounces

Price: $3.49 [drugstore.com]

left to right: Peony, Blushing, Pin-Up

I thought these would have more of a minty taste or smell with peppermint oil as an ingredient (like the C.O. Bigelow Mentha Lip Shines - I am obsessed with these!).  Only Pin-Up had any mint to it and it was fleeting.  There definitely wasn't any cooling sensation or breath freshening factor like the Mentha Lip Shines.

These are a complete mess to put on.  If you use the applicator like you would a normal squeeze tube gloss applicator it ends up all over your mouth and teeth.  It's like the angled tip doesn't run smoothly over your lips; it drags a bit and way too much product comes out at once.  It's not as tacky as I thought it would be, so maybe that's why it got all over my teeth. 

These definitely hold a good punch of pigment in them.  They don't go on sheer at all, despite looking like a gloss consistency.  They stay on for quite a good amount of time, considering it stays a bit shiny for a while.  After the shine is gone (or if you eat or drink) it still leaves behind a nice stain from the color.

These aren't bad for to price...there are just so many other drugstore lip products I like more where I don't feel self-conscious putting them on without a mirror and a lip brush.  After seeing how these performed, I am curious about the Tarte Melted Lipsticks, especially since they are supposed to be long-wearing.  I am a huge fan of long-wearing lip products lately, since I tend to forget to reapply.

Drugstore/Drugstore.com Haul and First Impressions

II recently used Drugstore.com to order some vitamins that were only available online so I decided to make the most of the free shipping at $35 and get some drugstore makeup products I haven't been able to find in store.

Drugstore.com has free shipping on $35 and my order came with a coupon for their sister site (beauty.com).  They also have online coupons and deals (just like a drugstore would have weekly specials)!

Here is my beauty haul:

Jessie's Girl Waterproof Liquid Liner
Everyone raves about this liner!  Jesse's Girl is sold at Rite Aid, but I have never been able to find the liquid liner and was dying to try it.  Swatched quickly on my hand, the tip is super flexible, easy to use, and it's super pigmented.  I get the hype!

elf Lip Exfoliator

This exfoliator smells like vanilla and for $3 does an amazing job of exfoliating.  Every little flake of dry skin was gone.  elf is also available at Target and has been popping up at Old Navy.
 

L.A. Girl Glazed Lip Paints

Colors: Peony, Blushing, Pin-Up.  People have found these at Walgreens, but I haven't seen them at my local W.  They are a supposed dupe for the Too Faced Melted Liquified Long Wear Lipsticks.  I was expecting a bit more.  They come off a bit patchy and make a mess - definitely use a brush or finger because the applicator is terrible.  The smell is a bit gross as well.

L.A. Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealer
I got this in Creamy Beige but probably would've done slightly better with Classic Ivory or Nude.  I tried this once and man, you only need a tiny tiny bit!  This is definitely a full coverage concealer.  The brush applicator is not a great idea for concealer at all - brush it onto the back of your hand first then pat on with a finger or brush.

Milani Baked Blush
Since the baked blush in Luminoso is one of my favorite blushes, I picked it up in Corallina.  I probably saw this in store and thought it would be too dark.  It's darker than other blushes I have but it's a beautiful darker coral that's great for spring and summer.  Milani is also sold at CVS.

Maybelline Dream Liquid Mousse Foundation

I've been happy with Maybelline products lately, so I bought the Dream Liquid Mousse in Nude Beige, Light 3.5.  As usual, my foundation comparisons will be below.

Maybelline Dream Liquid Mousse Foundation
Claims from Maybelline.com:

• 100% PORELESS SKIN
• AIR-BRUSHED PERFECTION
• Ideal for Normal Skin
• Air-whipped liquid provides perfecting coverage for 100% poreless skin
• Ideal for normal skin
• Oil-free, fragrance-free,  Dermatologist-tested, allergy-tested, non-comedogenic – won’t clog pores, safe for sensitive skin
• For Best Results: Apply smoothly and evenly to your face and blend with your fingertips.

Product Amount: 1 fluid ounce
Shade Range: 12 Shades, not great dark shades available
Price: $7.70 [Target]

This reminds me of a more liquid form of the Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse (see my review and duel here).  I only needed two pumps to cover my whole face, and buffed it in with the Real Techniques buffing brush.  The coverage is very good.  I would definitely say this is medium to full coverage right from the get-go, no building up is necessary.

Even without powder, this does give an airbrushed texture that makes your skin look flawless.  It's weightless with no heavy makeup feel on the skin.  With powder, you can definitely tell it's foundation (it's not a second-skin natural look), but it's a perfecting layer that's very pretty.

The downside - this comes off slightly shiny and oily, even if I set it with powder.  It's shiny right from the start, not from my skin being oily as the day goes on.  I used the Rimmel Stay Matte Powder in Sandstorm and it took away some it, but still had some shine around my nose.  I can understand a bit of shine after a few hours but this one gives an oily cast right away.  Maybe it would be better on dry skin and would give a more dewy look.

I liked the airbrushed finish from a few feet away, but close up the sheen isn't the best cast on my skin.  I probably wouldn't repurchase this one.

**What's on My Face**
Maybelline Dream Liquid Mousse -- Nude Beige, Light 3.5
Rimmel Stay Matte Powder -- Sandstorm
Milani Baked Blush -- Corallina

Maybelline Ulta Liner (reviewed here)
L'Oreal Voluminous Butterfly Mascara -- Waterproof, Blackest Black
L.A. Girl Lip Paint -- Peony

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My Foundation Shade Comparisons:
MAC -- NC 20-25
MAC Studio Fix Powder -- NC30
Makeup Forever HD -- 130 Warm Ivory
Kat Von D Lock-It Tattoo Foundation -- Light 48
Kat Von D Lock-It Powder Foundation -- Medium 52
Urban Decay Naked -- 3.0
Bare Minerals -- Medium Beige N20
Revlon Colorstay Combo/Oily -- Medium Beige 240
Revlon Colorstay Whipped -- Medium Beige 250
Neutrogena Healthy Skin -- Nude
Neutrogena Nourishing Long Wear -- Nude 40
Neutrogena Mineral Sheers Powder Foundation -- Nude 40
Maybelline Fit Me! Matte - Nude Beige 125 (found.) / Buff Beige 130 (powder)
Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse -- Nude (Light 4)
Maybelline Dream Smooth -- Nude Beige 180
Maybelline Dream Wonder -- Nude 40
L'Oreal Magic Nude -- Natural Buff 318
L'Oreal True Match -- N3 Natural Buff

March/April 2015 Favorites

I missed my March Favorites so I combined them with April 2015.  Here are my quick rundowns of the products I loved in March and April.

Sephora Perfection Mist Airbrush Foundation in Light

This is supposedly a dupe for the Dior Airflash.  I haven't tried the Airflash, but would love to someday.  The Sephora Airbrush is a bargain at $28 vs $62 for Dior Airflash and holy cow, does the Perfection Mist Airbrush Foundation make your face look flaaaawless.
 

Revlon Colorstay Makeup - Normal to Oily - Medium Beige (summer) / Sand Beige (winter) {Buff is a match for lighter NC20's, but these two look the best on me}.
This is a tried and true foundation that I will always have in my rotation.  You know you can count on it to look great at a drugstore price and last a long time.  I use it with the Colorstay Powder in Light/Medium and the Photoready Concealer in Light.

NYX Baked Powder Blush in Wanderlust

This leaves a gorgeous glow on your cheeks in a light pink/coral color.  I don't like heavy or too pink blushes and this is perfect.
 

Kat von D Innerstellar Palette

If I use colorful eyeshadows, I usually lean towards purple tones because I wear a lot of purples and blues.  When I saw this palette I knew it was right up my ally!  The colors are right on and the pans are huge and will last a long time.  Kat von D does a really nice job with her makeup.  Everything is pigmented so well and the palettes are always a really great value.
 

Milani Bella Eyes Gel Powder Eyeshadows in Bella Charcoal, Bella Espresso, Bella Taupe
These eye shadows are quickly becoming my favorite drugstore shadows...hands down.  Milani in general is becoming my top drugstore brand.  These shadows have great pigmentation, plus they have any color you could possibly need or want.

Milani Color Statement Moisture Matte Lipsticks - Matte Orchid and Matte Confident

Matte, but moisturizing?  Seem like an oxymoron?  Yet they are both, I promise!
 

Real Techniques Brushes:

Multi-Tasking Brush (in the Travel Essentials Set) - great powder brush!
Setting Brush - awesome size for setting under eye concealer.
{See my full review of all the Real Techniques brushes I have here}

Burt's Bees Hand Salve

My hands get super dry and crack a lot in the winter time and this is a lifesaver!  I slather it on and wear cotton gloves at night to let it sink it without getting it all over my sheets.
 

Other 'Non-Beauty' Faves:

Old Navy Active Go-Dry Compression Capris in Blue
It's not quite warm enough for shorts everyday here, but when I work out I don't like wearing long pants either.  I do pilates/yoga, ride inside on a spin bike, or do weight training.  These keep me warm enough without getting caught up in the bike or under my feet if I am barefoot doing yoga or pilates.  Great quality and affordable.
 

The Best of Tamilee Buns, Abs & Arms Workout DVD
Workout like it's 1997!  This DVD is quick and easy and all you need is weights and a mat!  The segments are only 15 minutes each but you'll definitely feel the burn.  I love doing the Abs & Arms workout back to back on days I don't ride my bike (cardio).  I do them 2-3 times a week and have seen results really quickly, especially on the arms segment.

Real Technniques Brushes

I have ordered a few Real Techniques Brushes from Target recently and have been loving them.  They seem to be less expensive on the Target site than at Ulta or Bed Bath & Beyond (even with coupons).  Plus you get the extra 5% off with the Target REDCard.

If you want to learn more about Real Techniques brushes, you can visit their website here.  Real Techniques was founded by Sam and Nic Chapman, the Pixiwoo sisters on YouTube.  The brushes have hand-cut bristles and are cruelty free.  They are high quality brushes at an affordable price.

Real Techniques Travel Essentials Set - $11.59, Target

From RealTechniques.com:
Everything you need to create flawless looks at home and away:

• Essential Foundation Brush: Build flawless custom coverage with liquid foundation or concealer
• Multi Task Brush: for effortless application of powder, blush, and bronzer
• Domed Shadow Brush: tapered design smoothly shades and defines eyes
• Panoramic brush case is a 2-in-1 case + stand

I bought this set pretty much because of the raves over the Multi Task Brush.  I use it for setting my all-over face powder.  It's extra fluffy and dense, and does an amazing job.  I prefer putting on my foundation with a domed brush or sponge, so I use the foundation brush included for my under eye concealer, then set it with the setting brush (mentioned below).  One can never have too many shadow brushes (in case some are dirty, or for blending).  This little guy is a dense dome brush great for packing on shadow all over the lid or blending in the crease.

Real Techniques Setting Brush - $5.99, Target

This small little brush is PERFECT for setting under eye concealer.  The size is just right for getting powder right where you want it, either under eyes or on a small pimple or some other mark you are trying to cover.  Sometimes you don't want to powder your whole face so this is great for setting concealer and your t-zone area.

Real Techniques Expert Face Brush - $6.79, Target

This brush is great for buffing in foundation.  It would work great with liquid or powder/mineral foundations.  I have only tried it with liquid but its so dense it reminds me of the bareMinerals Kabuki Brush but not as scratchy and with a full handle.  It blends in my foundation beautifully.

Originally, when I was scoping out Real Techniques, I was going to get the Miracle Complexion Sponge ($4.99, Target) instead of the BeautyBlender.  However, I couldn't get my hands on it because it kept going out of stock.  I had placed my order and checked out, but they cancelled the sponge off my order because it was so backordered.  I also want to eventually get the Powder and Blush brushes.

These brushes are fantastic!  I can't believe they are so reasonably priced.  The quality is much better than the elf brushes I have and use, and the price point is awesome.