MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Intense Lipstick : Go Big Or Go Home

I know, I know. I am so behind on reviews (LOL, which I seem to be doing all the time).  I did some heavy damage to my wallet during the Sephora Friends & Family sale, so please do expect tons of product reviews coming up.

While hunting for a nice opaque lip color, I set my eyes on the MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Intense Lipstick ($19).  I've read some awesome reviews on this product, and it sure did not fail my high expectations. I picked up #39, a bright orange coral shade, which isn't your usual color for the Winter months, but I am a sucker for coral lips.

More about the product : A highly pigmented, long-lasting lipstick that delivers rich color in one stroke. Formulated with 50% more pigment than the traditional lipstick, Rouge Artist Intense gives an immediate true-to-color result. A blend of three natural waxes, the creamy texture glides on effortlessly for a long-lasting hold. The extensive color and texture range provides unlimited creativity. This product is sold exclusively at Sephora and are available in 3 finishes—matte, pearly, and satin.

The Rouge Artist Intense Lipstick comes in a variety of finishes (matte, pearly, satin), depending on the shade of the lipstick. #39 actually looks like a bright orange red in tube but applies with a much stronger coral tone. It is a very close dupe for the mega popular MAC Ever Hip Lipstick ($14.50) that was launched in the Give Me Liberty of London Collection earlier this year.

To me, the Rouge Artist Intense Lipstick is like the adult version of Ever Hip. It is brighter, stronger, creamier, and more opaque. It did not dry out my lips even after a whole day of wear, but also didn't give any moisturization. And it definitely takes some practice before you can get a smooth and even finish. Using a lip brush is highly recommended due to the somewhat "heavy" creamy texture. The best part about this product, other than the lovely bold pigmentation, is that the color stays on for hours, although it slowly gets rubbed away throughout the day. However, being careful of not eating or drinking excessively with the lipstick on, I was able to get at least 5-6 hours out of it, which is a very great performance.

I am in love with this lipstick and already have my eyes on more shades. Next time when my local Sephora gets more in stock, I will pick up #43 (Moulin Rouge), which I have heard many raves about. 

If you pick the right color, this lipstick can be a perfect addition to a natural and long lasting daily look. However, with the bold formulation and high pigmentation, some of the brighter colors are more suitable for night looks or special occasions.

Note : Sephora is the exclusive beauty retailer for this product.

read more "MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Intense Lipstick : Go Big Or Go Home"

Read the full story

MAKE UP FOR EVER Rock For Ever Aqua Eyes : A Rock N Roll Party

The warm weather is disappearing and leaves are changing colors. Fall is finally approaching us fast. But do you see what else is happening? That's right - a glamorous rock n roll trend is coming your way. Started with the Urban Decay The Black Palette ($36) and the Bobbi Brown Black Velvet Collection, this season is all about the rock spirit. If you didn't get enough of this beauty trend, well, here is another chance for you. Please welcome the MAKE FOR EVER Rock For Ever Aqua Eyes Set ($36). This collection also includes the Rock For Ever Eye Shadow Palette ($45) and the Rock For Ever Star Powder & Aqua Eyes ($39).

More about the product : A set of five travel-sized, vibrant eyeliners in a reusable, studded tin case for a rebellious look of rock-star glam on the go. Only available from Sephora, and all colors are available to be purchased separately in full size.

The set contains :

• Aqua Eyes in Mat Black 0L (black)
• Aqua Eyes in Dark Grey 21L (dark metallic grey)
• Aqua Eyes in Silver 8L (metallic silver)
• Aqua Eyes in Bronze 10L (metallic bronze)
• Aqua Eyes in Gold 9L (metallic yellow)

The part I love the most about the set, other than the eyeliners themselves, is the cute little tin box that the products came in. This is the perfect way to take my aqua eyes with me when traveling. Plus, the chic box is gorgeous to be carried around in my purse.

0L (black) is already a stable in my stash. 21L (dark metallic grey) is the perfect shade to be paired with a smoking look. If you are concerned about the 3 brighter shades, 8L (metallic silver), 10L (metallic bronze), and 9L (metallic yellow), use them as eyeshadow. They are extremely soft and glide right on.

The Rock For Ever set is limited edition so pick one up if you want to be in on the trend. However, if you miss it, don't worry about it because all 5 shades are available as regular full size aqua eyes at $17 each. 

Pick It Or Not : Yes because the Rock For Ever Aqua Eyes will turn you into a rock princess!

read more "MAKE UP FOR EVER Rock For Ever Aqua Eyes : A Rock N Roll Party"

Read the full story

Make Up For Ever Mist & Fix : An Alternative To MAC Fix+

I woke up extremely early today and took Angie to the vet for a regular check up. Carrying her around is like working out in the gym. Thanks to her, I was sweating like crazy by the time I got to the doctor's office. So, I was sitting there with all the dogs and cats around me. I can already notice that my makeup was melting off of my face, so I took out my Make Up For Ever Mist & Fix ($27). Yes, I was touching up my makeup with the bulldog staring at me.

More about the product : A light and comfortable spray that sets all types of makeup and prolongs hold, even under extreme conditions. For busy women who want to go from work to an evening dinner out and don't have time to go home for touch ups, spray mist and fix on a thick tissue and pat gently on the face to refresh your makeup. Then apply a veil of compact powder to give your complexion a velvety texture for the evening.

I would say that this is an excellent alternative to the MAC F+ ($18). They pretty much do the same thing. Spray a thin layer over your tired face or foundation, and it instantly refreshes the look. I didn't notice any differences between the two products. The only flaw with the Mist & Fix is that this contains a very strong perfumed fragrance. It is quite strong when first applied but quickly disappears after a short while. I would only recommend the MAC one or this alternative if you really feel a need for these products. Otherwise, any hydrating sprays such as the Evian Large Mineral Water Spray ($15) or even a bottled water with spray cap would do the same trick with much more affordable prices.

Pick It or Not ? 

• Quality: 45 (out of 50)  
• Packaging: 20 (out of 20)  
• Price: 15 (out of 20)   
• User Friendly: 5 (out of 5)   
• Availability: 5 (out of 5)

Angela's Ultimate Pick: A -

read more "Make Up For Ever Mist & Fix : An Alternative To MAC Fix+"

Read the full story

Make Up For Ever HD Microfinish Blush : A Winner For Celebrity Status

When it comes to cosmetics, Make Up For Ever sure makes some cult favorites. Its acclaimed HD Invisible Cover Foundation ($40) is famous and popular in the industry. Now, the makeup innovator introduces a new member to its HD family - the HD Microfinish Blush ($25), which creates a soft-focus effect for a radiant complexion on and off the camera.

More about the product : The HD blush is formulated from pigments which were specifically selected for a perfect application. Thanks to its unique second-skin texture which can be blended endlessly, the HD blush guarantees a radiant and glowing complexion, which providing a totally natural result.

I purchased #6 Quickie, which is described as a salmon pink color. As many others have complained, the small size of the bottle did disappoint me at first, but I soon learned that as cliche as it sounds, a little truly goes a very long way. One pump is probably more than enough for several uses.

If you are a fan of the HD foundation, you will not be disappointed with this blush. It glides on smoothly and applies very similar to cream blushes. But, it is much easier to blend than cream blushes do, and it absorbs right into the skin, leaving a very soft and even finish. It feels super light and moisturizing. Even after a long day, it doesn't cake or fade away. I usually apply this with my fingers by first dotting them on my cheeks and then blend them out. I've also tried this with my MAC 187 Duo Fibre Brush ($42). Both ways gives you that natural and beautiful look. As you can probably tell, my praise for this blush can go days without stopping.

HD (high definition) makeups were originally designed for celebrities working on screen or with photographs because HD products contain light reflectors that give you that flawless look on camera. So, the true test for this product came when I took a picture of myself with the blush on, and I was blown away. The blush looks so natural and perfect on me because of its soft-focus effect. It looked like I just ran a mile and was blushing naturally. I deem this the best looking blush on me.

Pick It or Not ? 

• Quality: 50 (out of 50)  
• Packaging: 20 (out of 20)  
• Price: 20 (out of 20)   
• User Friendly: 5 (out of 5)   
• Availability: 5 (out of 5)

Angela's Ultimate Pick: A +

read more "Make Up For Ever HD Microfinish Blush : A Winner For Celebrity Status"

Read the full story