~ Coastal Scents Brushes, A Mini Review ~

I recently put in an order with COASTALSCENTS.COM and while I am always skeptical about super inexpensive brushes, I decided I could afford to take a leap of faith on a few items I was curious about…

As always, the brushes came packaged adorably in a drawstring organza bag (colors vary in my experience but this time it was black)  and delicately wrapped in pink tissue paper with a seal to keep everything nice and neat….)

I always enjoy attention to small details that really make getting a package feel more like getting a present;) I was given a small sample of loose shadow which was a nice and generous touch.  Shipping was also super fast and who doesn’t love that? 😉

Ok, so here are my thoughts on the few I received:

BIONIC FLAT TOP BUFFER BRUSH     $13.95     (see link for photo and more information)

The softness of this brush is pretty surprising, but yet it still has a density that makes it perfect for everything from buffing foundations in or applying bronzer or mineral foundations. This is a must-have for any makeup junkie on a budget who desires an excellent quality multi-tasking brush. I am adding a few of these onto my next order as they will now be a staple in my professional kit;) VERY happy with this purchase and even happier with the price! After all, it works as well as my SMASHBOX #19 and I paid over $50 USD for that brush. You do the math! As a side note, I do recommend the   BRUSH GUARDS to keep this brush in the best shape possible. They are a must for those who desire to get the most of their brush investment;)

BIONIC FLAT TOP BUFFER

DESTINY BLENDER BRUSH     $2.49     ( see link for photo and more info)

Another shocker, this little gem is under $3 USD but performs as well ( if not better) than my MAC 222 and MAC 224 brush. I liken the shape to that of the MAC 226 that sometimes appears in limited edition collections as it is very tapered and yet, dense and soft enough to give a beautiful and easy blend. Shorter than the MAC brushes but not so short that they are difficult to control. I think this is a perfect blender to keep on hand ( I will be ordering a few more…) and excellent for a travel brush set. Fast becoming one of my favorites!

DESTINY BLENDER

DIVINE LARGE/MEDIUM EYE SHADOW BRUSH     $2.49     (see link for photo and more info)

I love these brushes. The large is great for applying a base color all over the eye or even the highlight. The medium is perfect for lid color or highlight. Dense enough to pack on color if desired , yet soft enough to deliver a sheer wash when using a gentle hand. Again..smaller than the high end counterparts, but affordable, workable and definite basics for any makeup junkie to have in their stash. The price is nice too! Check out both sizes…at $2.49 each, you can’t afford NOT to;)

DIVINE LARGE DIVINE MEDIUM

BLACK POINTED CREASE BRUSH     $2.95     (see link for photo and more info)

Not my favorite pointed brush ever, but no major complaints. While the tip isn’t the most slender and perfect of pointed crease brushes, this can be worked with in my opinion. I find the tip to be soft enough to not irritate the delicate areas around eyes, but the base of the hair is dense enough to be able to smudge kohl liners into the lashline with ease.

CREASE BRUSH

So there you have it. A few good quality, basic makeup brushes without breaking the piggy bank. I plan to keep these handy on my personal makeup table and order a few for my professional kit as well. Great for traveling as well due to the convenient size and affordable price.  In fact, here is an adorable little bag that would be perfect to hold them all…

GOLD PENCIL AND BRUSH CASE

COASTALSCENTS.COM has so many hidden treasures from cosmetics to moisturizers. I have always been pleased with my purchases and the service at COASTALSCENTS.COM and highly recommend them to beginners and professionals.

As an addition, the already low prices are going even lower on certain items for the Holiday season so check them out!

More reviews coming soon on products from Estee Lauder, MAC, Too Faced, Sephora, Urban Decay, Coastal Scents, Face Atelier and MORE!  Stay updated and be sure to visit:

KRISTINE MARIE MAKEUP ARTISTRY FACEBOOK PAGE

and become a fan for more information and giveaway opportunities!

~ Colored Contacts, My first experience ~

I always wanted to have different colored eyes. I think we all have those types of phases be it wanting to try a new hair color, makeup look, or in my case – eye color. I always wanted those deep brown bedroom eyes but a light yellowy-green is what I was given. Well…you hear songs about blue-eyed girls and brown-eyed girls but when is the last time you heard a song about a yellowy-green eyed girl, hmmmm? So yeah, I wanted in on that recognition;)

I finally decided to make a change. I am not getting any younger and am not into waiting for the perfect times to do things anymore. If you wait for the perfect time, you may end up waiting forever. So, I took the plunge today. I went in for my eye exam and contact lens fitting and walked away with 3 new sets of colored contact lenses…

My experience was really good. I arrived a couple of minutes early for my optometry appointment and filled out a quick little form and off to the exam room I went.  I had to stare into 2 machines (one of which sneezed onto my eye – I swear that’s what it felt like.) Then the doctor asked me to read the letters on the chart and next he took a peek at my eyes up close with some pretty bright lights.

After about 8 minutes of painless, albeit eye watering observations, they determined I had healthy eyes, perfect vision and all that was left was to learn everything I needed to know to manage my new adventure. Yay! Finally some fun stuff!

I washed my hands super clean and sat down with a wonderful employee to learn some contact lens basics –  The different types of contacts, how to handle them, clean them, store them, insert /remove them and what products I would need to use to keep the lenses ( and my eyeballs) at their best. It took me a few tries to master getting them in and out of my eye but I had it down before I left;) I am super sensitive about anything near my face/eyes so this was a BIG step for me.

I tried SO MANY colors. Some were just enhancers ( a hint of color) and some were more opaque (complete color change) but in the end, I ended up with 3 trial pairs to test drive. Brown ( a deep dark brown), Honey ( a brown with a strong gold hue) and Aqua ( which on my eyes looks more like a sea-green).

First impression of how they felt? Well, know that feeling early in the morning when you wake up and your eyes are sort of cruddy feeling and blurry? Well, that’s exactly what it was like. My eyes watered for a few moments (most likely from the multiple attempts to get the lens in…) but once everything settled, it felt fine. I could tell they were there, but it didn’t hurt and wasn’t uncomfortable – just a feeling of awareness.

One of the more vibrant green colors actually made the whole room look a different color, but I didn’t experience anything like that with any of the others.

Now, I still have to go back in a week or two for my final “prescription” so I can go forward and order new contacts when the time comes, but already I am bombarded with all the different options out there from solutions to eye drops and even cases…there is a whole WORLD of stuff out there. I am already eyeing ( pardon the pun!) a pink HELLO KITTY case. I know…so superficial! LOVE IT:)

I will update soon to tell you about the brand of my lenses, show photos of the colors I chose and tell you a little about my experience with them so far. Any tips for me including where to buy supplies ( cases, lenses, solutions, drops) at good rates, tips for traveling with contacts, best techniques for removing, warnings – anything is appreciated.

Until then, if you are already to take the plunge into colored contacts, I recommend Dr. Nathan P. Bond, O.D. at EYE CARE OPTOMETRY ASSOCIATES, P.C.  They have 2 locations in Virginia Beach (one in Pembroke Mall near Town Center) and one in Norfolk, VA. They can be reached at 757-497-3205, 757-430-2863 or 757-587-6828. In my experience and opinion they are quick, efficient, very friendly and knowledgeable. Can’t ask for better than that!

For more updates on this adventure, or other girly related madness please subscribe to the blog and visit me on FACEBOOK ( KristineMarie Makeup Artistry) and YOUTUBE ( Kristine Marie Makeup) and be sure to comment;)

Kristine Marie

~ c. BOOTH Bath & Body Products, A Review ~

c. Booth products are made by a company called Delicious Brands LLC. I originally came across them years ago while in a rush to find a body scrub to exfoliate with before some summer sun-time. I was not impressed with the simple packaging, but the scent from the inside of that bottle of WALNUT SHELL BODY SCRUB and CLEANSER was NOT something I was going to pass on..especially not when it was only $4.99 for a whopping 16 ounces!

Well, I was hooked. I used it all summer and even into the winter before doing what I usually do…becoming bored and venturing out into experimental waters in search of the next best thing. I tried various store bought scrubs and even made a few of my own but nothing smelled and FELT quite like the one from c. Booth…

Well, a recent visit to ULTA found me in the c. Booth section sniffing everything I could open and I settled on a few things…

c. Booth Walnut Shell Body Scrub & Cleanser ( $5.99)  16 ounces, Squeeze Bottle with flip-top cap

This creamy cleansing scrub cleans, exfoliates and smells like toasted nut. Leaves skin smelling super soft. Just squeeze into a wet washcloth or bath sponge and make sure to pay extra attention to rough spots like feet and elbows and take it easy on other areas if you have sensitive skin;)

c. Booth Original Bath & Shower Cleanser ( $5.99)  16 ounces , Squeeze Bottle with flip-top cap

This shower “gel” foams nicely and is very gentle. Smells wonderful and while I can’t quite put my finger on what makes it so – trust me. It contains good stuff like Aloe, Sesame oil and vitamins;) Skin loves it and it leaves you feeling squeaky clean and smelling fresh. A staple for any c. Booth product lover. Perfect for men, women or the kiddos and affordable too. Best followed with a good moisturizer or body butter…

c. Booth Egyptian Argan Oil Body Butter ( $6.99) 8 ounces, Screw-top jar

Exotic, sensual, super smoothing body butter containing shea butter, cocoa butter and positively addicting! This is a thick yet buttery consistency that spreads easily and makes skin feel pampered. I LOVE this after a warm bath or shower and just before bed. I work it in lightly all over and put a bit extra on feet and elbows for the softest skin ever. Non-greasy and leaves no oily sheen like some body butters…your bed sheets are safe!

c. Booth Apricot  Oil Firming Lotion (   )  15 ounces, pump top bottle

Wow. A clean, light citrus scent greets you and the easy and complete blending of this lotion doesn’t go unnoticed either. Replenishes skin without leaving any residue and the caffeine helps to reduce cellulite while the emollients leave a smoother looking and feeling surface to your skin. It doesn’t fix everything, but it does make you soft, smooth and feeling a lot better about those short summer shorts;)

You can find these gems and more at ULTA, WALGREENS, DRUGSTORE.COM or purchase online right from the source – Delicious Brands LLC .  Oh, and did I mention the Ginger Sugar Body Scrub??

Though the packaging is nothing to rave about – the quality IS. I have managed to impress my skin, my sense of smell and my budget with these great products;) There is something for everyone – even the boys ( the sea salt scrub is an invigorating choice for making your man softer and smelling fresh!) so check out DELICIOUS BRANDS LLC and their uh-mazing c. Booth line!

Kristine Marie

~ Too Faced Lash Injection Mascara, A Review ~

I had been curious about the Too-Faced Lash Injection mascara for some time, but to be honest I am not one to splurge on mascara since I replace mine quite often. I would say my biggest splurge on mascara has been the RIMMEL Sexy Curves mascara and even that is less than 10 USD. 

I got this mascara as a gift from my daughter for my birthday in November along with some other things I will review later. I hated to see her spend her money on me, but I was anxious to try out my new mascara right away and I was most pleased. So, here are the basics:

What: Mascara available in black and dark brown

Purpose: To lengthen and volumize eyelashes

Packaging: Standard mascara tube  with an amazing ( and thick) wand applicator

Consistency: Thick 

Where: Sephora.com, Ulta.com and TOO FACED

Cost: $19.50 USD

Application: Easy. Place wand at base of lashes and wiggle slightly to coat and separate lashes evenly

Result: Long wearing with no flaking, added volume and slight length and held curl of lashes all day.

Tips: Apply eyeliner and curl lashes first. After removing wand from tube, tap the tip on a tissue to remove excess product to reduce clumping at the corners. Apply to lash tips only for a natural look and apply 2 or more coats for a full, false lash look. If you prefer, a mascara guard can help prevent mistakes or transfers;)

Thoughts: I hate the price but love the effect. Will I repurchase? Eh…not sure, but it’s been 3 months and mine is going strong for now…

Recommendations: If you are a mascara lover, this is a must have. A good oil-based remover will be needed as this is waterproof and budge-proof otherwise;)

For more makeup related information, tips, reviews, events and updates please be sure to subscribe to the Blog and  stop by and visit me at EXAMINER column or FACEBOOK Fan Page 

~ Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow/Liner, A Review ~

Benefit Cosmetics are not only know for their great quality, but for the colorful and fun packaging. Born in 1976 ( great year by the way since I was born in ’76….) of the creativity of 2 small town twin sisters, it is widely recognized as one of the most popular and distinct cosmetic lines of today. With signature items such as Bene-tint, Eye Bright ( a CARMINDY favorite), Coralista  and Lemon-Aid, you simply can’t ignore the uniqueness of this great brand… 

Now, onto the review!

What: Eyeshadow/eyeliner in a wide variety of colors

Purpose: To be used as an eyeshadow/eyeliner or as a base for other eye products

Packaging: Glass Jar with screw top, (.16oz)  

Consistency: Smooth and Creamy

Where: Sephora.com, Benefitcosmetics.com or anywhere Benefit cosmetics are sold

Cost: $19 USD

Application: Easy. Use clean fingertips or brush to blend onto eyelid.

Result: Well, it didn’t crease and did a superior job on making my eyeshadow budgeproof;)

Tips: Spread evenly for best results. A little goes a LONG way with the super creamy formula. These are also buildable and blendable , so create your own color combinations and have some fun!

Thoughts: I like these SO much better than MAC paint pots….just had to say it. Ok, now I feel better…

Recommendations: These wonderful little gems are on the “buh bye” list as Benefit Cosmetics ( and at a GREAT price!) so if you like what you see here, better get some while you can at BENEFIT COSMETICS. A steal now for $9.50 USD!!! And save your jars – A cleaned and sanitized jar can make a perfect sized and very stylish pillbox.

Subscribe for more reviews, makeup giveaways, event updates and so much more…and thanks for stopping by!

Kristine Marie

~ BEN NYE MATTE Foundation, A Review ~

WHAT: BEN NYE matte foundation. Endless array of shades to choose from. 

(As a reference, I am a CE-3 Light Beige in Ben Nye Matte, An NC25 in MAC, Medium Beige in Revlon Colorstay for combo/oily skin, and a MUFE Mat Velvet+ in 35)

PACKAGING:  .5 ounces in a screw-top jar with see through lid

CONSISTENCY: Cream

WHERE:  http://www.theatricalmakeupsupplies.com or wherever BEN NYE products are sold

HOW MUCH: $9.00

PURPOSE: To provide a full range of coverage ( depending on application method) for evening skin tone

APPLICATION: Easy. Apply with fingers, sponge, beauty blender, kabuki or foundation brush. Any application method can be used and coverage will vary depending on which you choose.

MY THOUGHTS: I haven’t found a BEN NYE product to disappoint me yet, and this was no different. Amazing pigmentation, goes on evenly and covers flawlessly. Perfect for photo shoots!  A versatile  and amazingly affordable “must have”  for everyday, special days and makeup artist kits. 

RESULT: I have used almost every method of application and find this to be amazing every time.  My preferred method is blending in with fingers first and buffing with a dense synthetic brush for the flawless finish. A little goes a long way and over a face primer, it goes even further.

ADVICE: This is a true matte foundation and sets that way. Wait for a few minutes after application to determine if you still need to set with powder. For sheerer coverage, blend with damp sponge. Medium coverage is best when using a standard foundation brush and for full coverage, blend in with fingers and buff with kabuki. Layer if needed.

*For makeup artists, I do highly suggest this range. Because the multiple containers can be a pain, I suggest depotting the cream foundation into a foundation pallet or craft box with small individual compartments for easy access and kit storage. The lightest and darkest of each range should be sufficient to mix for all skin tones. For photo shoots, I find the BEN NYE set powders are a perfect match for this. Neutral Set and Banana Visage will offer a perfect set from the lightest to the darkest of skintones with no adverse reaction to flash photos.

**For MAX Factor Pan Stick lovers , this is an affordable cream option with amazing coverage, but different packaging. 

~ Face Atelier Ultra Foundation, A Review ~

I have been deceived…but in the BEST way! You see, foundations are a tricky thing. I mean, with so many companies, formulas, colors, types, consistencies…it can be mind boggling to decide on the best option. This is exponentially more difficult for a Makeup Artist who requires something that would suit a wide variety of faces. FACE ATELIERS strong reputation in the cosmetic industry certainly seemed encouraging, but when my products arrived and I opened them , well, despite the rave reviews I must admit I became skeptical.

You see, in my experience, cream style or thicker liquid foundations are usually the best in terms of coverage and versatility in coverage…so, when I saw the super thin consistency of the FACE ATELIER I was certain that the coverage would leave something to be desired…

I couldn’t have been more wrong, and have never been happier to say “I was wrong.”  🙂

So, here are the basics:

WHAT: Face Atelier Ultra Foundation available in 10 color shades, and with 2 additional formulas to lighten or darken 

PACKAGING:  Pump top bottle (1 ounce)

CONSISTENCY: Thin liquid 

WHERE:  www.faceatelier.com (link below)

HOW MUCH: $44 USD

PURPOSE: To create a smooth and even skintone as a base for all other makeup applications

APPLICATION: Easy. Standard liquid foundation that can be applied with fingers, damp sponge, buffed in with a brush or any other way you prefer to put on your foundation. It blends easily with any application style. I have personally tried them all!

RESULT: A glowing, long lasting finish that seemed to leave me looking fresh and radiant while doing an amazing job of evening my skin tone. Sheer to full coverage is possible based on application method.

MY THOUGHTS: I simply love the effect and ease of this foundation. The oil-free, non-comedogenic formula is very deceiving as it is watery thin..but it performs amazingly in terms of coverage. This silicone based product glides effortlessly over skin and leaves a radiant and youthful finish. A little goes a long way making the price tag very understandable and acceptable (to me) as the quality and performance of the foundation is essential to a beautiful finished look. Good for all skin types, but especially nice for dry, problem, mature and sensitive skins. 

OTHER: The matching is easy with the option of ordering samples first for only $1.oo. Once matched, you can also purchase a darkener (O+) or lightener (O-) to adjust and completely customize the color of your foundation if your skin shade varies through the seasonal changes (ie darker in summer and lighter in winter).  You can blend it with your daily moisturizer for the perfect tinted coverage or apply direct for a fuller coverage. This formula is buildable which offers you control over your result without caking and the silicone base makes flaking a non-issue once set. Face Atelier also makes a concealer and setting powder that work perfectly with the foundations to create that flawless finish. Best of all, it is sans SPF so it photographs beautifully making it ideal for any Makeup Artist Kit. It is no wonder that FACE ATELIER was the official makeup sponsor for Madonna’s 2006 Confessions Tour. 

Helpful Tips:

For a sheer coverage you can blend with a damp cosmetic sponge.

Medium coverage is best achieved using your clean fingers or a foundation brush to blend.

For a full or heavier coverage, buff on with a dense kabuki style brush one layer at a time until you reach the desired coverage. (For myself, I applied only one layer and then a touch more in the T-Zone for a full coverage look. Again, it doesn’t take much product to really see a difference.)

For those who desire a matte finish, simply blot skin with a clean tissue after application and then set with a translucent powder. 

This product is SPF free, so if wearing day-to-day, use a moisturizer or primer with SPF.

* To check out the website and order  some samples , visit the  website by clicking here:  FACE ATELIER   

I hope this has been helpful and feel free to check back for updates and before/after photos using this product.

KristineMarie

~ SLEEK Divine Palette, Curious ~

This mineral eyeshadow pallet comprised of 12 shadows is something I have been checking out for awhile. The delay in my getting it ( and the others SLEEK offers) is that it is a UK based brand that isn’t sold in the United States. SUPERDRUG  is one location in the UK that sells it, and others can randomly be found being re-sold on the internet through EBAY, Private sellers and other beauty related companies. Please be careful who you choose to purchase from and research the validity of your seller.

Note: While SLEEK offers a few palettes in it’s regular collection, a few are limited edition and only released on ocassion and because of the great quality and low low cost they do go quickly.

I did happen upon a UK based internet seller and while the process was a bit more complicated that I preferred and quite slow, I did finally get my CURIOUS palette this past week. My MODERN PINUP LOOK was created using this palette, so you can check it out in the “LOOKS” section in the right sidebar if you are interested.————->

So, what do I think? Well, I love it. The palette itself is tiny…about 7″ by 3″ ( rough estimate ) and the pigmentation is very good. While some of the colors are a bit powdery, I am keeping in mind that these are mineral based and that does tend to be the case with most. And for the price ( about 8USD )They do blend well and the packaging is convenient ( size) and there is a large mirror so you can touch up on the go if you are that kind of girl;) All for the cost of HALF a pan of MAC eyeshadow;)

Here are some photos:

 

As you can see, the colors are very vibrant and while the shadows are often associated with being popular amongst Women of Colour, they are usable and wearable for everyone. No doubt though, that Women of Colour will get a great color payoff from this brand opposed to most.

Here is another pic:

This photo is in direct light with a flash so while it does look more vibrant in person, the lighting does dull the vibrancy a bit. Sorry about that folks.  I realize I do  need to upgrade the camera.

 

So, I hope this helps anyone who was “Curious” about the SLEEK CURIOUS palette and yes I do think this would be an awesome addition to any Makeup Artist Kit or Personal Kit for those who enjoy color.

I am still on the lookout for more of these as I would like to get the ORIGINAL, STORM, & CHAOS palettes as well as the other limited edition ones to include the SAFARI and the ACID palettes, so keep me updated if you find a quality seller at a reasonable price. Enjoy folks and visit often for updates!

KristineMarie

~ Kat Von D Tattoo Cover, A Review ~

I picked up this product after serious scouring for the final solution for my dark , dark circles that always seem to bring down my look – even when my mood is bright. (Thanks Mom for the dark circle gene!)

So, here are the basics:

WHAT: Kat Von D Tattoo Cover. Available in 8 shades. Waterproof, Transfer Resistant Multi-tasking concealer. Concealer brush sold separately. 

PACKAGING:  Squeeze tube with screw on top in a Kat Von D decorated box.

CONSISTENCY: Rich and Creamy  liquid

WHERE:  Sephora.com

HOW MUCH: $25 USD

PURPOSE: To conceal skin flaws such as redness, blemishes, discolorations and even tattoos.

APPLICATION: Easy. I squeezed a *tiny* bit onto my clean ring-finger tip and patted in until blended. Goes on even and no heavy feeling. 

MY THOUGHTS: I was debating the product based on the cost, but felt I could return it if it didn’t perform as promised. Surely, if this was meant to cover a tattoo, then it should be able to deal with my dark, dark undereye circles, right? 

RESULT: Within a half hour of purchase I was sporting some seriously normal looking eyes. I looked younger, the man of the house noticed and I felt good.  That’s a triple bonus purchase! Highly pigmented and lasted. No settling into creases or fine lines. I’m satisfied!

ADVICE: This is a rich formula with a high degree of pigmentation so be sure to choose the right shade for you. Prepare with a good moisturizer in the eye area or any other area you plan to apply it. Allow moisturizer to settle in. Remember – use a very tiny amount to start. Add more if needed. Set with powder.

*Just for you skeptics out there, I thought evidence would be best, soooo, here is the reality on an actual tattoo:

BEFORE KAT VON D TATTOO CONCEALER:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AFTER KAT VON D TATTOO CONCEALER:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

No editing whatsoever. This is the real deal….

HOW I DID IT:

So simply! Just a tiny, tiny bit of concealer pressed in and lightly blended out. I mean, tiny bit. Think the point on a pencil tiny. Let dry for a few seconds, and repeat. Lightly press with translucent powder and that was all there was to it. My tattoo=GONE and Im sure my Mother will be ecstatic when she sees!

Now, the  Dark Circle test. Be warned the initial site could cause nightmares….(no makeup on!)

BEFORE KAT VON D CONCEALER:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AFTER KAT VON D CONCEALER:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINAL LOOK WITH FULL MAKEUP ON:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Great coverage, matte finish minimal product needed and lasted and lasted…..IMPRESSING!

*Just as a reference, I am a MAC NC25, a MUFE Mat Velvet 35 and a KAT VON D Medium concealer. Your shade may vary.

So, with that, I am off to work on some other things and I hope this was helpful to anyone looking into the quality of the KAT VON D concealers and in my opinion a great addition to any MUA kit.

KristineMarie

~ Sally Hansen by Carmindy, A Review ~

For a few years now, I have heard little tidbits about the product line of Sally Hansen by Carmindy Products. For those unaware, Carmindy is the makeup artist on TLC’s hit show “What NOT To Wear”. She is known for her signature simplicity and eye catching mini-makeovers.

I did quite a bit of internet research, and even picked up a copy of Carmindy’s Book “The 5 Minute Face” (sold in Bookstores for $16.99 USD) in an effort to learn more about Carmindy, her approach and her products.

 

Armed with intrigue and a $2.00 coupon (found in the book) I headed off to my local CVS in search of a few of her products to try. I had a small list of the things I was most interested in and hoped for a Buy one, Get one FREE sale the whole way to the store. 

* Keep in mind this is only a few products as Carmindy’s line has a full range of items. You can find them at CVS and ULTA. 

Well, no BOGO offers, but a small display offered more $2.00 coupons for her products so I plucked a few and began my choosing. I being a true makeup junkie had these items swatched before I made it out of the parking lot and was wearing a full face of Carmindy product within a half hour of getting home. I tell myself it’s ok because it is my job;)

Here is what I picked out and  a quick take on what I think of them so far…

LUMINIZING FACE PRIMER – $9.99 USD

It has a silicone feel much like the Smashbox primers but with a healthy does of shimmer. If Smashbox Photofinish primer and MAC Strobe cream had a baby, this would be the result. It did the job and kept the makeup on all day and into evening. Impressing  and affordable for about 10 dollars. Small size bottle at just under 1/2 ounce, but convenient and a nice pump top with cap. Now, I prefer a matte look so I won’t be repurchasing, but for those who enjoy the dewy glowy look, this is for you.

 

AIRBRUSH SPRAY MAKEUP – $13.99 USD

*Infused with goodies for your skin (vitamins and chamomile) this is a light/medium (buildable) coverage foundation. Best applied to the back of your hand first and then picked up and spread about the face with a dampened cosmetic sponge. Gives a more natural looking coverage but nothing substantial. Great for those who don’t care for the thickness of liquid foundations, or for a summer solution. Limited shades. I liked trying it out and may keep some on hand for clients who like this option, but personally, I am loving fuller coverage this season.

FAST FIX CONCEALER – $8.99 USD

*Creamy concealer that easily blends away discolorations and blemishes. When used with primer, it stayed put and evened things out before I applied the spray foundation. Nicely packaged  in a small see-through container and convenient for any makeup bag for touch ups if needed. Highly recommend to those who don’t wear much makeup, but want to conceal some areas with a product that is easy to work with and natural looking in it’s result.

INSTANT DEFINITION EYE SHADOW PALLET – $7.99 USD

Mistake-proof pallet comes with an insert that clearly defines which shades are to be used where. (Lid, Contour (crease) and Highlight.)  Shades are pigmented fairly well for daywear, buildable for evenings and have just enough sheen (not shimmer) to be versatile for women of all ages. Quite a few color combinations for almost every liking/skin tone. I accidentally picked up the wrong one, but I am eyeing the Amethyst colors that I originally wanted for my next drugstore adventure…

NATURAL SHINE LIPGLOSS – $7.99 USD

*My pick of the litter on this group! I love the non-sticky formulation and I do use a lip primer with this to promote longer wear. The shine is beautiful and the the feel is creamy and moisturizing. Many shades to choose from ( I love Pretty Pink!)  and a nice brush tip for even application. Great to have in the daily makeup bag or evening clutch and one heck of an affordable option to MAC lipglosses at twice the price. I plan to purchase every color, and maybe backups too! Now added to my PERSONAL FAVORITES list! ( See link on right of page for more information—>)

LUMINOUS MATTE PRESSED POWDER –  $11.99 USD

*Is the name a little confusing to you too?  Well,  I didn’t notice any increases luminosity in my face but then I picked this up in the *neutralizer* since they didn’t have my shade in stock. Maybe thats the x-factor. Anyway, it seemed to go on colorless and set the face well. I used it for touch ups later in the day and no complaints.  When applied  on my daughter  it reduced her redness amazingly. Affordable compact to keep handy and performed well without distorting the color of my makeup or being too powdery looking. A handful of shades ranging from light to dark are available.

SHEEREST CREAM BLUSH – $8.99 USD

*Not normally a daily wearer of cream blush, I was pleasantly surprised as how creamy and sheer this really was. Blended in so fast and easy and looked ridiculously natural. Greater even still as a base for powder blushers to promote really long wear. Love that it doesn’t slide off my combo/oily skin and would suspect it is even better on dry skins. Just a hint goes far, so this little number is more than worth the small asking price. I even plan to pick up a few more of the colors they offer for my kit;)

I am quite impressed and feel like I will be making some of these items not only part of my personal kit, but part of my professional one as well. I love to have options that offer a natural look at an affordable price. For those just starting out or seasoned makeup vets that want some great little options give these a try. Paraben free, cute and compact packaging and affordable. Stock up!

* I will be offering some of the above sampled items (along with items from other lines) for sale soon. Subscribe for updated by clicking the last link on the right side of this blog page—->

I am curious to know if anyone has any suggestions for other products I may enjoy from this line. If so, send me a note or comment below.

I hope this has been helpful and thanks for stopping by!

KristineMarie