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Friday, November 30, 2012

Product Review: Make Up Forever Aqua Rouge Lip Color - Ask the Expert: Kristine




The fall trends for 2012 are all about lips! Deep, rich lips to be specific. Many runway looks for this season showcase deep reds, wine, and chocolate lip colors in a variety of finishes ranging from matte to high shine. It is best paired with a very soft neutral-colored eye and flawless skin.

I was searching for a long wear formula that would require minimal touching up for fall. I love Make Up Forever products and use their lipsticks, so when I saw that they came out with a long-lasting formula I had to purchase it! I thought I would review it if any of you ladies wanted to try out this stunning look to spice up your makeup routine.

What it is:
Aqua Rouge is a long-lasting lip color that is a lipstick and stain hybrid. This formula is waterproof for extra long wear. It comes in 12 shades: #1 Nude Beige, #2 Rosewood, #4 Chestnut, #5 Beige Brown, #7 Pink Brown, #8 Red, #9 Burgundy, #10 Raspberry, #11 Dark Raspberry, #13 Purple, #14 Light Rosewood, and #15 Pink.



Application: 
For the best application, I would recommend exfoliating your lips before you apply Aqua Rouge. You can use an old toothbrush or plain sugar to gently buff away dead skin cells. Follow up by applying a lip balm. Apply the lip color in the center of your lips and feather out to the corners of the mouth. Pay close attention to make sure you are creating a clean lip line with the applicator. Each end of tube can be used alone, or together. You can also use a lip liner with this product if you'd like.

Positives:
It comes in a range of colors, from soft beige to bold burgundy. When I swatched the colors they were all quite true to the color when you look at it, so what you see is what you get. It's insanely, densely pigmented with a super glossy shine. I also tried mixed colors of this formula together to make a custom color, this was probably my favorite thing! It's also easy to apply, smudge-proof, non-transferring, and WATERPROOF! It can be worn alone or with the gloss over the top. You can also layer the product to get a more intense look. 

Negatives:
After a few hours of wear, I did find that if I didn't reapply the clear gloss my lips became dry and flaky, so I would recommend being sure you really moisturize your lips before you apply. I also applied the color by itself without the gloss. I was not a fan of the way this felt on my lips; it felt like it wasn't completely set. I did like they way it looked though, it was a very beautiful matte look. When it came time to take the product off, I tried to use a waterproof makeup remover, which did not take off the product. I ended up having to use my Clarisonic with a bit of facial cleanser in order to get it off. I'm not sure if this is a con, but I wanted to share because this is a serious long wear formula! They weren't kidding when they said it’s waterproof!

Price:  $24 at Sephora or online at www.makeupforeverusa.com

Overall:
I purchased #10 Raspberry. It's a very vibrant, beautiful mix that doesn't look too pink, or red. When I applied the Aqua Rouge, it went on smooth and creamy and dried quickly. It was also comfortable to wear on my lips. If you purchase one of the bright colors I would recommend trying to be precise as possible. If you make a mistake with the lip line attend to it immediately or else it will be a pain to remove once it's set. The glossy lacquer finish is absolutely gorgeous, I felt like I was on the runway. They are also not kidding about it not transferring; I barely needed to reapply after eating lunch and drinking water. It's great if you're searching for a vibrant color that won't transfer, or if you want an everyday color that lasts all day. I will definitely be recommending it to brides to keep in their bag. 


Images courtesy of: Harpersbazaar.com

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Product Review: Maybelline Eye Studio Color Tattoo Cream Gel Shadow - Ask the Expert: Sabrina

This month I wanted to share with everyone my new favorite product, Maybelline's Eye Studio Color Tattoo shadow ($4.99-6.99). It's a 24-hour cream gel shadow and comes in 10 vibrant colors. 


They are easily applied, last all day with no creasing and will go even longer if you want. The color is true to the container and is saturated with pigment. You can apply with your fingertip or with a brush. The more you put on, the more dramatic of a look you can achieve. 

I find them fun and simple for everyday wear. Currently there are rave reviews online and these can be purchased at many local stores. Have fun playing and experimenting with new colors and techniques! 

Image courtesy of: Maybelline.com

Friday, November 9, 2012

Product Review: Maybelline Unstoppable Eyeliner - Ask the Expert: Jamie


Ok ladies, I am constantly trying new products to find the best ones out there so you don't have to! I have found one that is very noteworthy and has now become a staple in my personal makeup stash as well as my kit.

Maybelline New York Unstoppable Eyeliner is a retractable, soft eyeliner pencil that glides on with ease. My favorite part about it is that it's long lasting and, for the most part, stays put.  I have tried quite a few pencil liners and some of the big name brands make some nice ones too.  But Unstoppable is a less expensive way to go without having to sacrifice the quality.