EOTD – Pink & Gold

Pink & Gold EOTD - No Flash

I am a bit late (OK, OK, I admit, heaps late, oops :">  soz peeps) with this post because I have been working on my entry into the Beauty Heaven annual Blogstar competition over the past week.  Not only did I get sidetracked and right off schedule, I also absentmindedly assumed I could post my submission straight here on my own blog as well, once the entry was surrendered. (the conditions, which I am querying only state you can't submit an existing published post, but video entries are published on YouTube, so I can't fathom why written entries shouldn't also be used on the authors personal blog??)  I was intending to outline that the work was written for the sole purpose of the Blogstar competition etc. etc. (yeah, yeah you get my drift (:| LOL ;) ) Even after investigating on the Forum and various Blogs about the subject, I have still drawn a blank, unable to determine if it's permitted or not.  :-\  After a week of deliberation, I decided NOT to risk it.  Knowing my luck, my entry would end up being deemed void and invalid, therefore, all the time and effort already spent, (mostly hours of editing to try and reduce my original post to less than 500 words  :-B :))  LOL!) might have been futile, EEK!  :-O  

Pink & Gold EOTD - Both Eyes - No Flash

Pink & Gold EOTD - Flash

Ok, so the point is, I now have to post something super fast with no preparation, Double EEK!!  :-O  :-O  Well, skimming through some photo’s from a couple of months back, I came across an EOTD (Eye of the Day) that I conjured up to harmonise with one of my favourite baby pink lip hues, the Innoxa Matte Lipstick in Pink Carnation, which I have already photographed in my Innoxa Lipsticks post a while back. #:-S  While this isn’t the same eye look that I used on that occasion, I wanted to try something new and different to compliment the gorgeous pink tincture to perfection, and well, this is what I came up with.  :)  A quick and easy eye makeup look, using only a handful of products from my beauty stash, featuring a basic combo of budget and quality cosmetic brands.  ;)

Here is what I used:

Laura Mercier Eye Basics in Wheat 

This eye makeup base is my ultimate saviour for oily lids.  The problem is non-existent if I prime my lids with this before attending to my usual eye makeup.  It creates a flawless canvas to disguise any imperfections, allowing for an effortless application that prolongs the staying power of my eye makeup to perfection so it doesn't crease or smudge or fade.  Also helps to brighten up tired eyes and leave them with a 'well-rested' appearance.

MAC Paint Pot in Chilled on Ice 

(Described as a Frosted White Gold)  It’s a creamy metallic-style pale yellowish gold that was introduced here early this year from the Mac limited edition Cham Pale collection (some good images can be viewed here).  It is more gold looking on my skin than it appears to be in the pot and the cool shimmer (not at all glittery) that is semi-sheer is ideal as an all over lid colour.  It blends seamlessly and I love that even though it has such a creamy formula, it dries quickly with no tackiness, while the intense finish stays vibrant all day.  (NB: No longer available via the Mac website)

MAC Cream Colour Base in Madly Magenta 

(Described as a Vivid Pinkish Purple)  These multi-tasking creamy colours are so handy and a ‘must have’ for all beauty cases.  They can be used on your eyes, lips, cheeks anywhere really and even though I read somewhere that this colour is NOT suitable for lips and eyes, but, I defied the perception and have found it is awesome any which way ;)  This hue springs from the Mac Stylishly Yours collection and is apparently a permanent MAC PRO only shade. (Swatches can be viewed here)  Now this is pink how I like it (my kind of pink!) :x  A cool, blue-based, bright pink with purple undertones, or similar to fuchsia more or less.  The formula is highly pigmented, providing a rich, fully opaque coverage that simply doesn't budge.  (NB: Permanent Shade at PRO stores only, but don't hold me to that  :)>- I don't have personal access to a MAC PRO store to verify this claim)

NYX Cosmetics Loose Pearl Eye Shadow in Nude 

(Described as a Subtle Shimmery Champagne)  The multi-purpose pigments are the best ultra budget cosmetic product I have ever experienced.  The finely-milled, highly concentrated almost gold (rather than nude) coloured powder definitely packs an enormous punch in terms of colour payoff and its gorgeous, pearlescent finish is ideal to highlight any makeup look.  I like these pigments as an eyeshadow or a highlighter, as a blush on my cheeks, mixed with gloss on my lips, or polish to paint my nails and even, on occasions in my hair.  Used either wet or dry, they are smooth to apply with minimal fading (especially when a primer is in place first).  The only downside is that it’s hard to access the pigment while it’s in its original pot, so it’s easier to transfer as much product as needed into another canister or a mixing medium to avoid wastage. 

Guerlain Retractable Eye Pencil in Gold 

This retractable-type liner doesn't appear to be available anymore via Guerlain, however more information on the product can be sourced here. The intense 'true' gold liner is super soft and creamy, delivering immaculate precision and is presented in quality Guerlain packaging that just screams pure ‘class’.  It glides on smooth and defines my waterline with a dramatic pop of colour that stays put for hours without regular touch-ups. The built-in sharpener is useful if you want to achieve an even more tapered point for finer lines.  (NB:  While obsolete by Guerlain, it's still readily available at many online discount outlets)

NYX Doll Eye Mascara in Waterproof Black 

I use this mascara more than many of my others, as it always enhances a brilliant, natural-looking flutter. ;;)  I prefer the Waterproof formulation, to be confident that it doesn’t wind up where it shouldn’t be and like how the design of the brush allows for perfect maneuvering to coat every lash, even the finest inner ones.  It lengthens my lashes, leaving them incredibly black and much fuller, minus any clumping or flaking. Whilst I like my lashes to look prominent, I don't go for anything too OTT (over the top) during the day, however when I need some extra 'oomph', this mascara can also be built-up for a more dramatic, nighttime effect.

Pink & Gold EOTD - Full FOTD - No Flash

This is how I did it:

After priming with the Laura Mercier Eye Basics, I created a light wash of colour all over the lid, extending to the upper orbital bone (or is it lower brow bone, bwahaha, I am not up to speed on anatomy, :)) LOL!) using the MAC Paint Pot.  I then applied the MAC Cream Colour Base along the upper lash line and lower lid, smudging slightly, extending to the outer corner and up into a V in the outer crease.  I then used the NYX Cosmetics Loose Pearl Eye Shadow underneath my brows and in the inner corner of my eyes, carefully blending into the gold wash.  Using a large brush, I dusted some loose Translucent Powder over the area to complete the blending and set the colour.  I worked the Guerlain Retractable Eye Pencil into my lower and upper waterline and along the lower lash line.  Finally, just one coat of NYX Doll Eye Mascara to both the upper and lower lashes concluded the eye look.

The lipstick that inspired this look.

Overall:

This look was simple to achieve and I thought it effectively complimented the baby pink lipstick, while promoting a soft, feminine appearance. \:D/  What do you all think?  Is it a winning combination and does it suit my eye colour?  While I love wearing pink lipsticks, I usually don't opt for pink shades on my eyes, so please give me your honest opinion. :-? Does it work??  I would also love some more colour solutions for my eyes that would be flattering when united with a baby pink lipstick hue, similar to the one pictured above.  Any suggestions?  ;)

All images in this blog are my own, with the exception of the generic product images.

Tried & Tested – Aveeno Positively Radiant Tinted Moisturiser + Cleanser

Hi there peeps, this here latest post is featuring my tried and tested reviews of the Aveeno Active Naturals products that were sent to me from Beauty Heaven as part of their Trial Team.  I received the Aveeno Positively Radiant Tinted Moisturiser and the Aveeno Positively Radiant Cleanser, from their Positively Radiant line, which spotlights the benefits of their unique processing of the active ingredient, namely Soy that Aveeno claims has many benefits that target skin tone and texture.  The Aveeno Active Natural website describes the Positively Radiant range as: “A line of facial products that utilises the naturally active benefits of soy to even out skin tone and texture and reveal skin’s true radiance naturally.”   

 I am well into my 30's now so skin tone and texture is generally a major concern, so I was excited to see how this range would perform on my problematic, maturing skin, hehe  ;)) Here is my complete rundown on the products that I used and my thoughts on each of them.

Tinted Moisturiser

Aveeno Positively Radiant Tinted Moisturiser

Considering I live in Innisfail, located in the far northern tropics of Queensland, this time of the year it’s pretty hard to keep a heavy foundation in place, so I prefer something lighter, such as a tinted moisturiser.  After years of neglect my skin is showing signs of sun damage and premature ageing, so I like to keep my skin covered at all times, not only to disguise my imperfections and mottled skin tone, but also to protect it from the damaging rays.  Due to this, I prefer a tinted moisturiser with SPF, so when Beauty Heaven presented me the opportunity to trial the Aveeno Positively Radiant Tinted Moisturiser (which is SPF15) in conjunction with the Cleanser in the same range, I was ‘peachy keen’ to give them a whirl.  :)

I have oily skin, so the odd drama when it comes to finding a tinted moisturiser that is suitable for my skin concerns is not unheard of, especially when it has sun protection on board, because most sunscreens just don’t gel with my skin and bring about even more oil.  :-O  Presented in a sturdy lockable pump top dispenser, the Aveeno Positively Radiant Tinted Moisturiser comes in two shades, 'Fair to Light' and 'Medium'.  I opted for the later, which turned out to be a perfect match to my skin tone.  I was a bit concerned that the formula, with its texture being thick like a foundation that included light-reflecting particles would only accentuate my oily skin even more…..and unfortunately it did!  :-/

Tinted Moisturiser Texture (No Flash)

Along with the makeup-like consistency, which actually blended like a charm, the first thing I noticed was the sunscreen-type fragrance that I am not overly partial to. :|  It is quite subtle though and the scent soon fades away to nothing after it's applied to the skin.  It initially promoted a sheer, natural-looking coverage that impressed me, as it evened out my skin tone considerably, masking any flaws, particularly the usual redness and blotchiness that my skin manifests during the hotter months.  So, as well as hiding the ‘bad bits’ it complimented my personal skin colouring exceptionally well to achieve a ‘barely there’ existence and a refined, polished-looking complexion. :)  The finish felt nice and lightweight on my skin, which I was thinking has to be a good sign, as whilst the dewy, glow looked acceptable after I had finished setting it with my normal translucent powder, those instant admissible results were sadly short-lived.  :-S

Tinted Moisturiser Texture (Flash)

After going about my normal morning activities, I stopped to reflect on my appearance in the mirror and at first, I couldn’t tell if my skin was starting to look shiny or if it was just the shimmery Mica particles that were included in the ingredients.  Although, before the morning was over, I touched my skin and this time, it was well and truly feeling greasy, so in hope, I applied some more translucent powder to try and help reduce the shine.  [-o<  By mid afternoon, with the day getting warmer, that coincides with the addition of humidity, I was looking like I had just jumped out of the deep fryer, covered in an oil slick of sorts. #-o  To top it off, as well all that the excess oil, my face was literally glistening (think shimmer, eww  [-( ) that also emphasised my problem. :(  My face also looked quite patchy and the majority of the original flawless coverage had basically just separated and settled into any lines and crevices or had melted away entirely.  Some of the remnants clung onto a couple of dry patches on my skin that I didn’t even know existed until they were brought to my attention by the unsightly flakiness that highlighted the fact.  :-O

Blended on right side only (No Flash)

Not one to give up so easily, I tried it again the following day, this time with a primer underneath. *-:)  While it didn’t make a 'huge' difference by the end of the day, I did notice that the coverage lasted longer and wasn’t as greasy as the previous application.  I continued using the tinted moisturiser (only collaborated with a primer) for a period of five days, however on the third day, I noticed a small pimple surfacing on my cheek, followed by two more the next morning and finally on the fifth day there was another one, this time right on my nose. :-O  That was the last straw!  ~X(   I found it to be quite overwhelming, because it certainly wasn’t ‘that time of the month’ when I AM inclined to get the odd hormonal blemish and considering other than this Tinted Moisturiser and the associated Cleanser, I have not added anything else or changed my standard, particularly strict skin care regime. :-<  I immediately ceased using the products, but when I am feeling braver, I might try introducing them one at a time, to determine which one or if both could possibly be the culprit.  :-t  Even though I am convinced, knowing my own skin very well and not being one who breaks out too often, that most likely this particular formulation is just too rich for my oily skin.  Whilst the product claims to be noncomedogenic, because my skin wound up so greasy, it’s my opinion that the excessive oil production is what also contributed to my breakouts.  It’s not all bad though, as while I do have oily skin, I am also blessed with sensitive skin and I can ensure that these products didn’t cause any irritation or skin flare-up’s, so it is gentle and didn’t upset my skin at all. #:-S

Blended on right side only (Flash)

With its mediocre price range, this product comes up trumps in terms of being economical, seeing as I only needed one pump per application, I dare say it will last for ages.  Taking into consideration my skin is already oily and the weather is rapidly heating up, it would be safe to determine, these were the contributing factors to my ‘not so pleasant’ experience and the overall performance of this product in my case.  :(  While, I wouldn’t feel comfortable recommending this to anyone with oily skin, we are indeed, all different, therefore what works for me (or what doesn’t work in this case, LOL  :)) ) could actually be pleasantly surprising for other oily skinned beauties, so take it in your stride and if you are comfortable to give it a shot then go for it.  :)>-  I am of the belief that the Aveeno Positively Radiant Tinted Moisturiser would be more suited to those with normal to dry skin types, as the initial results I encountered, would have a far greater possibility of endurance to prevail a flattering, dewy, radiant-looking complexion, rather than one that resembles a luminous, disco ball. L-)  It’s got plenty of potential.....but ONLY for the right person. :p

  

Cleanser

Aveeno Positively Radiant Cleanser

Beauty Heaven also sent me this Aveeno Positively Radiant Cleanser to trial, in addition to the Tinted Moisturiser in the same range.  I used both of these products over a five day period and whilst I didn’t have much luck with it’s partner, the Cleanser seemed to do basic the job at hand.  :)

Packaged in a durable plastic lockable pump top dispenser, just like its counterpart, it makes for ease of distribution and less chance of wastage.  The first thing I noticed when I dispersed the Cleanser for the first time was actually the smell, which reminded me of something familiar. :-?  It has a distinct lemon fragrance and I am normally really fond of refreshing citrus scents, but this smells a bit like Sunlight dish washing detergent to me and it isn’t particularly appealing when used on my face. :-&  The perfume, fortunately, doesn’t linger on my skin once it’s washed off, so it didn’t trigger any reactions, although I would have preferred if it were less prominent or completely unscented.  :-"

Cleanser Texture (No Flash)

The thick, creamy formulation is of a pearlescent appearance, with tiny traces of Mica included, which I found to be a bit strange for a cleanser. :-?  Were these particles added intentionally, to somehow gently exfoliate the skin, or are they purely cosmetic?  :-?  Is that supposed to be the basis of the ‘radiant’ part maybe?  :-?  That by imparting shimmer particles to the skin it may suddenly appear more illuminated??  :-?  :-?  Who knows, but I do find it rather bizarre!   :o)  I only need one pump, to achieve a gentle, lightly foaming lather, which is enough for my whole face and neck.  It cleans my skin without leaving it feeling taught or dry, removing most makeup, other than my waterproof mascara, which just streaked under my eyes.  But, that is normal with most cleansers though anyway, so I find use an oil-based cleanser to combat stubborn waterproof makeup.  ;)

Cleanser Texture (Flash)

While I can’t say I noticed my skin looking any more radiant than usual during the short time I used this Cleanser, particularly as the glittery bits wash off with water anyway, but my skin does feel clean and comfortable.  I am uncertain if this product contributed to my skin being excessively oily during this trial or not, but in the future I will use it again, this time without the addition of the Tinted Moisturiser to hopefully rule out that conception. [-o<

Lightly Foams (No Flash)

Overall, I am still a bit ‘on the fence’ about this Aveeno Positively Radiant Cleanser because while it is exceptionally good value for money, at the end of the day I find it is just an average cleanser and ‘nothing to write home about’.  It does remove dirt, surface oil and the majority of my makeup, yet the scent is a bit off-putting and at this stage, I can’t see any improvements to my skin tone. :-L  I guess this product would be the ideal Cleanser for anyone who wants a normal ‘run of the mill’ cleanser that is budget friendly and won’t break the bank.  B-)

Very Creamy (Flash)

Final Thoughts

Gee, I am rather disappointed that I couldn’t share a more positive experience in this post, but I have learned to take the bad with the good, considerably so when dealing with oily skin issues I often come across more bad than good. :-<  It is just a way of life that I have gotten use to over the years and it always helps to remember hey, we are not all the same, so it's only natural that our experiences with beauty products will differ from person to person.  That is what keeps the beauty industry in business, the fact that we are all unique and are constantly trying one product after the next on the hunt for ‘Holy Grail’ products that perfectly address our personal skin concerns. ;) 

So, as for the Tinted Moisturiser, well it’s back to the drawing board for me this summer, while continuing to keep my eyes peeled for new SPF products that are suitable, especially at keeping the oilies at bay!  If all else fails I do have a small tried and tested selection that I posted about in my Sun Protection - Staring 'Oily' Skin post, that I know I can always rely on. #:-S  As for the Cleanser, I will keep you posted if I do try it again and have something more to add.  Have you tried any Aveeno products before?  What about either of these Positively Radiant products?  Have you had any bad experiences using tinted moisturisers before or have you found something perfect?  If anyone happens to know of a good ‘NON-GREASY’ tinted moisturiser with reasonable coverage, then please, please, please tell me more :)

All images in this post are my own.

FOTD - Arbonne Review

Firstly, I just want to apologise for being late with this post.  [-X  The past week has been a total write-off because I have been a tad under the weather!  :-<  The dreaded flu finally caught up with me and I was bed ridden for a few days.  :-&   (well as much as that is possible when you have two little pip squeaks at home  :-j  LOL).  So yeah, while feeling as sick as a hundred dog’s I was unable to keep up with everything, so much to my dismay, even my blog had to bear the consequences :-O   

Arbonne FOTD - Flash

Anyway, onto the good stuff  ;)  When Heather from Arbonne asked me if I wanted to trial some Arbonne Cosmetics products, I must admit I was more than just a bit excited, hehe!   \:D/  ;))  I mean it’s not very often I get asked to test drive makeup and lets face it, who doesn’t LOVE makeup, well at least I know I sure do! :x  Due to my oily skin, I was keen to try the Arbonne FC5 Mattifying Powder, which is actually part of the Arbonne FC5 Face skin care range, but it also really does go hand in hand with cosmetics.  Based around that, we decided that I should also test out a foundation, concealer and blush along and in conjunction with the primer and lipstick that I already own, it covers the basic daily makeup products I need to create a simple but elegant FOTD (Face of the Day). :)  Here are the products I used to create my look. :D 

Arbonne Makeup Primer 

This product is the star of the range, (*) definitely my kind of primer, yet I must admit, like with most primers, I was sceptical about how it would team up with my oily skin. :-S  I soon found out that it was actually a pleasant surprise, with the ability to achieve impressive results, making me intent to use it again and again.  I like primers with lots of slip, like this one has, with its silk-like finish that is incredibly lightweight, creating an airless film on my skin, delivering a super soft, smooth canvas, ready for my makeup.  It comes in sleek, stylish packaging (that looks very flash on my vanity) with a pump-style applicator to ensure ease of application.  Enriched with vitamins, this primer has a clear, unscented, gel-like texture that is non-greasy and doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin or cause breakouts.  Unlike other primers, this formulation isn’t too rich or heavy, so instead of causing my skin to get all greasy, it actually helps to mattify my complexion, keeping my oily skin shine-free throughout the day. It does everything a primer is supposed to do, such as filling in pores and fine lines, disguising imperfections and ironing out the surface to improve the overall appearance of my skin, which then allows for flawless makeup that remains looking durably polished.  I also noted that this primer works perfectly with both liquid and mineral powder foundation, but the key is not to go overboard as a little goes a long way, just a pea sized amount is sufficient for my whole face.  This powerhouse primer preps my skin, hides my flaws and extends the life of my makeup, all to my advantage for a smooth, beautiful complexion.  I would highly recommend it. =D>  

Arbonne Primer

Arbonne Perfecting Liquid Foundation SPF15 

I have trouble with many liquid foundations, which can my face too shiny, settle into fine lines or appear all cakey. ~X(  This foundation, in the shade of 'Honey Beige', comes up trumps to meet all of my criteria. B-)  The lightweight formulation glides over my skin, blending with ease and complimenting my skin tone perfectly to create a super smooth, flawless, natural-looking finish.   Presented in a classy, pump-action glass bottle, this multi-tasking blend also allows my skin to breathe, while protecting against UV damage, with the zinc infused, SPF 15 barrier.  The non-comedogenic, paraben-free foundation provides a medium to full coverage that hides my imperfections and really does stay in place without transferring onto my clothing or sliding off in the heat. I love that it also boasts anti-ageing properties to target prematurely aged skin, battling against the ‘maturing’ progression, by firming facial contours, whilst softening and relaxing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, so rather than accentuating my flaws, my skin looks immaculate.  This foundation is ideal for my oily skin as the built-in light reflecting technology diverts attention away from my defects, providing a healthy, luminous glow without being all greasy-like.  The nourishing formulation does however, still deliver adequate hydration to keep my skin from feeling taught or dry. In my opinion, it absolutely lives up to its ‘Foundation Botox in a Bottle’ claim by promoting a youthful, airbrushed appearance with a subtly radiant complexion.  This foundation benchmarks the junction between skin care and makeup, to not only meet my desired skin concerns, but it also suits my lifestyle with its ability to withstand the humid, Queensland summer days and that is saying something!  ;)

Arbonne Perfecting Liquid Foundation

Arbonne Crème Concealer 

Because this concealer only has three shade options, 'Light', 'Medium' and 'Dark', I wasn’t overly confident after selecting the 'Medium' that it would suit my complexion. :-?  Not to mention, that I have never really had much success, previously, when I have tried using a cream-style concealer on my oily skin. :-/  Well, I needn’t have worried, because I instantly loved this concealer, with its petite, little square-shaped compact boasting a sturdy snap-shut lid that features Arbonne’s signature, elegantly chic presentation.  As it turned out, the medium shade was a perfect match for my skin tone and the thick, smooth, creamy blend goes a long way, with just a smidgen being ample to hide my visible demons,  >:) drying within seconds to a lightweight, powder-like finish.  The medium coverage works well on my minor imperfections, yet I found it does require a bit more careful layering to completely camouflage any major flaws, (think enormous, volcano-style zits :-O  :)) LOL).  So, while not exactly a full coverage concealer, it’s definitely buildable and matched with exceptional staying power, even on my oily skin, I admit the formulation is quite spectacular and wears beautifully.  I am growing rather fond of this master of disguise.  >-)  ;)) 

Arbonne Creme Concealer

Arbonne FC5 Mattifying Powder 

This was the product I was the most excited about trying, because as anyone with oily skin would relate to, I am always looking for innovative new ways to combat my oily skin dilemma, which is particularly evident when I wear makeup and even more so in the humid conditions of our tropical climate.  I didn’t suss this product out too much before I received it, so you can imagine my shock when I discovered it was in fact green, EEK! :-O  Not someone who is easily deterred, I immediately tried it out as a finishing powder, which sets my foundation and concealer, however it can also be used prior to foundation as a primer, or even alone, to not only mattify, but also to reduce the appearance of facial redness, whilst soothing and comforting irritable skin.  I can assure you that it doesn’t look green at all, not one iota, once it is applied to the skin.   It is presented in a fancy flip-top compact with a mirror and velour puff, although I prefer to apply it using my normal powder brush, the pad-like puff is handy for touch-up’s on the go.  I have used this powder ‘every which way’, but my favourite method is dusting it over my makeup.  The lightweight, translucent powder doesn’t clog my pores or cause congestion and the amazing effect keeps my skin shine-free all day long.  If I do need to re-apply, normally only after exertion, it works like a charm to revive my complexion and quickly transform it back to a matte, refined finish.   This is a no-brainer, it suits my lifestyle and skin concerns to perfection, packed with lots of natural ‘oily skin-combating’ ingredients that I love, such as zinc and kaolin, all I can say is this powder is simply ahh-mazing!  :x   

Arbonne Mattifying Powder

Arbonne Blush 

I think that this blush, in the shade of 'Taffeta', is one of the prettiest colours I have ever seen.  It comes in the typical Arbonne-style packaging, which is sleek and attractive, with a sturdy clip-shut lid.  The compact doesn’t come with a brush, which is perfectly fine by me as most of the brushes that accompany blushers are shocking anyway, so I prefer to use my own. ;)  This particular blush is a bright, bold colour but is semi-sheer upon application with a gorgeous, lightweight, matte finish.  The smooth powdered blush blends easily with minimal fallout and a little goes a long way.  It provides a naturally ‘pinched-cheek’ look that compliments my complexion, staying in place all day without fading. This no-fuss blush is a gorgeous addition to highlight any makeup look.  :) 

Arbonne Blush - Taffeta

Arbonne Lipstick 

I have this lipstick in the shade of 'Scarlet', which I won in a competition a while back.   I am one of those people who just can’t wear red lipstick, because it simply doesn’t look right, LOL! :))  'Scarlet' is more of a deep, brownish red and while I still don’t think it suits me entirely, the colour is far more flattering than say a 'fire engine' red, so it’s the ideal red lipstick to go for if you can’t sport a true red lipstick.  It comes is an elegant, slimline gunmetal grey casing with an equally narrow tip, which makes for smooth, precise application.  I adore the botanical enriched formula of this lipstick, because while it provides a vibrant, semi-matte finish, it is actually rich and creamy so it doesn’t dry out my lips, nor does it have any scent or taste, which I find extremely appealing.  I personally think that the overall finish is much nicer if I prep my lips with a balm prior to using the lipstick as this prevents it sinking into any fine lines on my lips.  The full coverage, highly pigmented, blend with immense colour payoff doesn’t feather or slide out of the lip line and wears incredibly well, still leaving a distinct stain on my lips hours after first applying, even after eating and drinking.  The only downfall is the colour selection is limited and that is a shame as the maximum effect lipstick is stunning and I would love to try shades more suitable to my complexion. An effective lipstick that guarantees a perfect pout! <:-P 

Arbonne Lipstick - Scarlet

Overall

Arbonne Swatches

WOW, I really enjoyed trying these Arbonne products and I was indeed surprised at how well they performed.  They were a match made in heaven for my oily skin and the long-wearing, hard working formulas are ideal to use in our tropical climate.  I actually wore this makeup for the whole day, going about my normal daily routine, including eating and drinking and even took a Nanna nap (shh :-$ :)) ha-ha ) and still woke up with my makeup looking fresh and intact!  Price wise, yes they do they seem expensive initially, but they are certainly no more expensive than lots of other brands and are equally on par in terms of performance.  As the old saying goes, “You get what you pay for” and that absolutely relates to these Arbonne products. 

Arbonne FOTD - No Flash

As a person who has always been extremely budget conscious, I have learned that buying the cheapest alternatives are not always the most affordable option in the long run.  Based on my own personal experience, I have noticed, quiet often, that some of the more expensive options are more 'concentrated’ if you get my drift, therefore they last for so much longer, stamping out the need for frequent replacements.  I have no doubt that these Arbonne Cosmetics fall straight into this high-quality, luxury brand category, with the ability to utilise the smallest amount of product to accomplish the desired look, hence I would be more than happy to invest my $$$ into such effective and long-term economical solutions. :)  Have you heard of Arbonne or have you tried any of their products yet?  I would love to hear your thoughts! :) 

Although some of these products were provided for my consideration, ALL opinions in the above post are my own and were not in any way influenced by anyone else.

All images in this post are my own, other than the two advertising pictures below, where I have made reference to the source.

If you would like to find out more about Arbonne you can visit Heather’s website here. If you sign up as a preferred client, you will receive 2 ‘FREE’ products, or if you are interested in becoming an Arbonne consultant you get an incentive of over $100 worth of ‘FREE’ products to get started. 

Image c/o Arbonne

"Let me erase your wrinkles and your worries! 
Arbonne Can change the face of your future. 
Watch the following clip for a free gift."

http://www.arbonne.com/opportunity.asp

Image c/o Arbonne

“Join my team today, earn a free Mercedes, we are going straight to the top!” 

Here is a link to an Australian opportunity presentation

http://www.spiritwings.com/EYL/EYLNotesAU.pdf

You can also email Heather at botanicalskin@gmail.com if you have any questions, or would like to find out more