SOCIAL MEDIA

Urban Decay Jean Micheal Basquiat Lipstick Swatches

Wednesday 31 May 2017
The Urban Decay x Jean-Michel Basquiat Collection launched in early April and is available on Sephora. Whether you are a fan of Jean-Michel's work, and Urban Decay junkie or just a makeup lover I think this collection is so well done. 
Jean-Michel spoke out about social injustice, challenged the status quo and faced challenges as a black artist in his time. If you'd like to learn more about him you can read his biography here
The Jean-Micheal Basquiat Lipsticks retail for $21 CAD and come in the same canvas packaging at the rest of the collection. Each lipstick is a different design which I think makes it extra special. There are 3 shades available. 

Urban Decay Jean-Michel Basquiat Lipstick Exhibition (Comfort Matte): Medium Pink-Purple
Urban Decay Jean-Michel Basquiat Lipstick (Cream): Neutral Sienna 
Urban Decay Jean-Michel Basquiat Lipstick (Cream): Nude-taupe 

*This collection was sent for my review, some links are affiliate. 

Urban Decay Jean-Michel Basquiat Tenant Palette Swatches

Tuesday 30 May 2017

The Urban Decay x Jean-Michel Basquiat Collection launched in early April and is available on Sephora. Whether you are a fan of Jean-Michel's work, and Urban Decay junkie or just a makeup lover I think this collection is so well done. 
Jean-Michel spoke out about social injustice, challenged the status quo and faced challenges as a black artist in his time. If you'd like to learn more about him you can read his biography here
The Urban Decay Tenant Eyeshadow Palette retails for $49 CAD and contains 8 shadows in varying finishes. The packaging is sturdy and beautiful, but not too bulky. Added bonus, there's a place on the back to hook it on to a wall as a piece of art. It's actually wrapped in canvas so you could totally fool anyone, it barely looks like an eyeshadow palette. 

*This product was sent for my review, some links are affiliate. 

Covergirl Melting Pout Swatches and Review

Sunday 28 May 2017
New at the drugstore the Covergirl Melting Pout Gel Liquid Lipsticks! These are "melted" or liquified lipstick. You should be able to find these at the drugstore starting this month, they are permanent to the line. If you don't see them on the display yet be sure to look on an end aisle or side display. They will retail for around $10.00 CAD, depending on the drugstore you shop at. If you'd like to see them in action, I have a full lip swatch video on my YouTube Channel
The Covergirl Melting Pout Lipsticks have a rich, creamy texture, full colour and glossy finish. They come in a squeeze tube format with a soft doe foot applicator. with 8mL of product. This is about average for this type of product, and with the formula I think it would take quite some time to run through the product. You really only need a small amount to get full opaque colour. 
With matte liquid lipsticks ruling the world, it's nice to have an option like the Covergirl Melting Pouts. They are incredibly comfortable, not at all drying and leave your lips looking plump because of the glossy finish. The formula is pretty consistent throughout, "Raspberry Gelly" is the only dud as it is slightly patchy. As expected with this formula, the wear time isn't necessarily all day, but it does last nicely. I get several hours out of it, and as it wears the gloss dissipates and it becomes more matte and like a stain. 
Covergirl Melting Pout Gelebrity 
Covergirl Melting Pout Gel-ful
Covergirl Melting Pout Evan-gel-ical
Covergirl Melting Pout Gelebrate 
Covergirl Melting Pout Tan-gel-o
Covergirl Melting Pout Gell Yes 
Covergirl Melting Pout Don't Be Gelly 
Covergirl Melting Pout Gelfriend 
Covergirl Melting Pout Gellie Jelly 
Covergirl Melting Pout Gel-bird 
Covergirl Melting Pout Raspberry Gelly 
Covergirl Melting Pout Gel-mate 
Overall, if you are looking for a product that is full of colour, comfortable to wear and glossy, this is it! They are also easily mixed if you'd like to customize a shade. 

*These products were sent for my review, all opinions are my own. Some links are affiliate. 

Spring/Summer Picks from Beauty United!

Friday 26 May 2017
 Olay Ultra Moisture Body Wash is a dermatologist recommend wash. I tried the Shea Butter scent, which has a "lock-in-moisture technology". This is a body wash I've tried many times and enjoy. It has a great creamy lather. The shea moisture scent is light, not too sweet or floral. Could be a unisex scent in my opinion. Depending on what you prefer, there's any number of scents you could try! It does a good job leaving my skin feeling clean and fresh but not stripped of moisture.
Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream has a re-engineered formula that enables skin cells to act younger and deliver visible, transformative results. It also provides hydration and renewal benefits to firm and lift the skin. As someone with oily skin, I am always looking for something to hydrate my skin but not leave it feeling greasy. I've enjoyed using this cream at night, it is a little too heavy for my skin type during the day. That being said, I really like using it as a part of my night time skincare routine, and it left my skin feeling soft and hydrated the next day. 

Olay Regenerist Miracle Boost Concentrate is a lightweight emulsion designed to be used under the Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream. It's formulated to boost skin's absorbency with hydration and improve elasticity for a lifted appearance. No matter the skin type, I think anyone would really enjoy this concentrate. It's fragrance free, has a serum like texture and is used prior to moisturizer. It's something I have enjoyed incorporating both at day and night. The packaging is also super handy, it has a dropper style top that allows for controlled use and no mess.  
Herbal Essences Argan Oil of Morocco Shampoo and Conditioner and Herbal Essences Argan Oil of Morocco-Infused Creme. This line is formulated with a technology called "bio:renew" that is a blend of essential antioxidants, aloe and sea kelp. These ingredients help to revive the hair and renew it to a healthier state. The Herbal Essence Argan Oil contains no parabens and is gluten and colorant free. It's also safe for coloured hair, which I have and I can attest to this! Unlike some Argan Oil based products, the scent is fresh and not overly perfumed. Both the shampoo and conditioner have a very creamy feel. Also in the line is a Creme that helps to repair damaged hair and reduce frizz. I have really enjoyed using this straight out of the shower as a leave-in conditioner type product. 
Secret Fresh Deodorant is a classic in my bathroom collection. It's something I have been using for years. It does a great job keeping me feeling fresh and clean. As someone with darker skin it can be harder to find formulas that don't look white and chalky on my skin but this one goes on near invisible. The scent is great too! 

*These products are provided for my review. 

Urban Decay Jean-Michel Basquiat 24/7 Eye Pencils

The Urban Decay x Jean-Michel Basquiat Collection launched in early April and is available on Sephora. Whether you are a fan of Jean-Michel's work, and Urban Decay junkie or just a makeup lover I think this collection is so well done. 
Jean-Michel spoke out about social injustice, challenged the status quo and faced challenges as a black artist in his time. If you'd like to learn more about him you can read his biography here
The three 24/7 Eye Pencils included in the Jean-Michel Basquiat Collection were inspired by his paintings. They have a great creamy and blendable texture. Can be used to line the eyes, or act as a base under eyeshadow. Anatomy is my personal favourite, I cannot resist a warm shade like that. 

Urban Decay Jean-Michel Basquiat 24/7 Eye Pencil Anatomy - sienna matte
Urban Decay Jean-Michel Basquiat 24/7 Eye Pencil Post Punk - bright neon green with pearl 
Urban Decay Jean-Michel Basquiat 24/7 Eye Pencil Vivid - bright teal matte

*This collection was sent for my review, some links are affiliate. 

Urban Decay Jean-Michel Basquiat Gold Griot Palette Swatches

Thursday 25 May 2017


 The Urban Decay x Jean-Michel Basquiat Collection launched in early April and is available on Sephora. Whether you are a fan of Jean-Michel's work, and Urban Decay junkie or just a makeup lover I think this collection is so well done. 
Jean-Michel spoke out about social injustice, challenged the status quo and faced challenges as a black artist in his time. If you'd like to learn more about him you can read his biography here
The Urban Decay Gold Griot Eyeshadow Palette retails for $49 CAD and contains 8 shadows in varying finishes. The packaging is sturdy and beautiful, but not too bulky. Added bonus, there's a place on the back to hook it on to a wall as a piece of art. It's actually wrapped in canvas so you could totally fool anyone, it barely looks like an eyeshadow palette. 

*This product was sent for my review, some links are affiliate. 

Win a Colourpop Lipstick!

Wednesday 17 May 2017

Super simple giveaway today! Enter below :) 

- International 
- Must be 18 or older, or have your parents permission 
- No giveaway accounts 
- Do not email or message me asking to win 
- Winner will be contacted via email and have 48 hours to respond. 

GOOD LUCK!! oxox 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Karen Dermo Cosmetic Moisturizing Lotion

 Today I've teamed up with Karen to chat about their Karen Dermo Cosmetic Moisturizing Lotion with phytoplankton. First of all, I am always so excited to learn more about Canadian brands. As a Canadian blogger I love having the access and ability to help spread the word of Canadian brands that I think are doing great things. Karen is based out of New Bruinswick, so as an East Coaster myself I'm extra excited. 

"KAREN4BLOGGERS" will get you 40% off your entire purchase plus free shipping until 12/13/2017.

Karen believes in only sustainable and ethical practises and uses 100% Pure Marine Phyto Plankton. Their products are all vegan, non- GMO, gluten-free and eco friendly! 

This Phyto Plankton or easy algae plankton has been shown to be an antioxidant agent and when applied to the skin can act as an anti-inflammatory and help with things like rosacea, dermatitis and wounds. The skin will also be protected from damage cause by UV. Although it is not a sun protectant it can aid in the prevention of photoaging, wrinkles and skin dryness caused by sun exposure. If you want to get real technical and learn more about the research and development you can see their outline here.
The Karen Dermo Cosmetic Moisturizing Lotion is hypo-allergenic, dermalogically tested and paraben, oil and cruelty free. It has been formulated to treat atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, rocasea and just generally intolerable skin.  If you are curious to try they offer a 30 day money back guarantee, so no risks! It's available for purchase at the above link, $39.99 for 100mL and $59.99 for 250mL. 

Moving on from the science and to my thoughts on the product. I really enjoy it, and I would never endorse a brand/product I don't believe in. It is clear to me from doing some research on the brand and the lotion itself they are putting a ton of R&D into creating something unique and effective. That being said. as a user of this product, the main item I care about is does it make my skin feel good. Which is yes! It has a very light texture, does not feel greasy and absorbs quickly into the skin. You can use it just about anywhere you want, even on your face! I personally like to either keep it by my bed, in my bag or at my desk. Perfect for my hands or soothing dry skin throughout the day. 
Not only can you access this phyto plankton topically, but Karen has also developed powder and tablets. You can see their full range of products here

Overall, if you have had skin issues I think this is something to give a try. It is a very unique ingredient, something less harsh then what may have been prescribed for you. Now that I am done testing I will be handing it off to my boyfriend to see if it can do anything for his eczema! 

*This post was sponsored by Karen, all opinions are my own. 

Covergirl Outlast All Day Concealer Review

Friday 12 May 2017
covergirl outlast all day concealer review
Covergirl makes some of my favourite foundations so I was really excited to try the new Covergirl Outlast All Day Concealer. You should be able to find it on the permanent display for Covergirl products. It retails for about $9 to $13 and contains 10mL (which is about average, slightly above). There are 6 shades in the range from Fair to Deep, although I haven't seen much of the deeper shades available. 
If you'd like to see the concealer in action I used it in a Trying New Drugstore Makeup video on my YouTube Channel. The Covergirl Outlast All Day Soft Touch Concealer claims to instantly erase the appearance of dark circles and blemishes with a creamy, smooth texture. It will not clog pores, and will last all day. It has a slanted doe foot style applicator that you squeeze the product through. I like this for application and I feel like you'll be able to use every last drop of the concealer without having left overs you can't get to. 
covergirl outlast concealer swatches
Covergirl Outlast Concealer Light/Medium Covergirl Outlast Concealer Medium
I wear the shade Medium under my eyes, it has a brightening effect, I'd need to go a shade deeper for concealing blemishes. For reference I'm about an NC42. That being said I would not use this concealer for blemishes, I like something with a thicker texture that I feel like is going to set and last on a spot. I find the texture to be light and creamy, not thick or cakey. I keep going back and fourth about wether or not I like it. I definitely think for best application you need to apply it to your undereye, give it time to set then blend out with your fingers. When I used a beauty blender and brush it totally disappears. Even with my fingers it is dicey on application sometimes. 

I really, really want to love this, because sometimes I love this. Currently, still on the fence. If I lost it, would I run out and repurchase, nope. Like anything, it is going to be totally personal preference. 

*This product was provided for my review, some links are affiliate. 

tarte Amazonian Clay Stick Foundation / tarte Clay Stick Foundation Review

Sunday 7 May 2017
tarte Amazonian Clay Stick Foundation
Launching on May 21st at tartecosmetics.com is the tarte Amazonian Clay Stick Foundation! This is one of the extensions to their Amazonian Clay line, there is also a new palette on the way. This foundation will retail for $39 USD and includes 9g of product which is about average for a stick foundation. See it in action on my YouTube Channel in my tarte Clay Stick Foundation Review/Wear Test. 
tarte Smoothie Blender Foundation Brush
Also launching with the foundation is the tarte Smoothie Blender Foundation Brush, this will retail for $28 USD. It has a great dense, angled top but it is still quite soft. Good for both this stick foundation and liquid! 
tarte Stick Foundation Swatches Fair Beige, Fair Neutral, Fair-Light Neutral, Light Beige, Light-Medium Neutral, Medium Beige
tarte Stick Foundation Swatches Medium Sand, Medium Neutral, Tan Sand, Tan-Deep Honey, Deep Honey, Rich Honey

It comes in 12 different shades, I anticipate tarte will extend the range as they've done with their other products. 

Foundation claims: 
- 12 hour wear 
- matte 
- full, creamy coverage 
- buildable 
- Amazonian clay is skin balancing that hydrates/mattifies 
This foundation is brand new to me so I can only give you my first impression. So far so good! I think that it held up nicely on my super oily skin, I still got oily but it did not break apart or feel too greasy. Once I blotted I was good to go. 

tarte Clay Stick Foundation Shades:
tarte Clay Stick Foundation Fair Beige 
tarte Clay Stick Foundation Fair Neutral
tarte Clay Stick Foundation Fair-Light Neutral
tarte Clay Stick Foundation Light Beige 
tarte Clay Stick Foundation Light Beige
tarte Clay Stick Foundation Light-Medium Neutral
tarte Clay Stick Foundation Medium Beige
tarte Clay Stick Foundation Medium Sand
tarte Clay Stick Foundation Medium Neutral
tarte Clay Stick Foundation Tan Sand
tarte Clay Stick Foundation Tan-Deep Honey
tarte Clay Stick Foundation Deep Honey
tarte Clay Stick Foundation Rich Honey 
tarte Clay Stick Foundation Shades
I don't feel like it is full coverage, it's definitely buildable but it would just take too many layers for me to get to full. That's fine with me, I like a light/medium coverage anyways. It did not oxidize on my skin, or enhance pores - that being said if you have texture a smoothing primer is always an option. 
Overall, I really like this foundation! If you have oily, combo or normal skin it's something to consider trying. 

*This product was provided for my review, some links may be affiliate. 

30,000 Subscriber Giveaway!!!!

Thursday 4 May 2017

Thank you so so so much for 30,000 subscribers! 

Enter below to win a HUGE box of makeup. Also up for grabs 1 of 5 haircare sets from L'Oreal for my Canadian subscribers. 

- The makeup giveaway is International 
- Ends in 2 weeks 
- Good luck!! 

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Urban Decay Moondust Eyeshadow Review and Swatches

Wednesday 3 May 2017
The Urban Decay Moondust Eyeshadows have been around for some time but I was recently given some at the opening of the Urban Decay Flagship Store Grand opening. There are 25 shades in the range, which is amazing. Sephora stocks the least amount, if you want to find the full range you can check out an Urban Decay store or their website. The shades I'm swatching today are exclusive to their stores and site. 
The Urban Decay Moondust Single Eyeshadows retail for $21 USD/$25 CAD. So they aren't cheap, but they are pretty damn unique and gorgeous. Urban Decay describes them as a sparkly shadow that is ultra-sophisticated. To the touch they almost feel like a cream shadow, but they apply like a powder. I recommend using your finger, or a synthetic brush sprayed with setting spray or a little water. Using them wet will reduce fallout during application and give them a more intense look. That being said I did't have major issues with fallout and any fallout was well worth the finished result. 

Urban Decay Moondust Vortex - Smoky black with green shift and gold 3-D sparkle 
Urban Decay Moondust Crux - Smoky teal with multicoloured sparkle 
Urban Decay Moondust Interstellar - Antique gold with pink and gold 3-D sparkle 
Urban Decay Moondust Chem Trail - Oyster grey with iridescent sparkle 
Wearing Urban Decay Moondust in Vortex and Interstellar
These won't be for everyone, be it the price tag or the glitter but I am so glad I tried these. I don't often reach for loose glitter, so I see myself reaching for these more often. More user friendly in my opinion. I feel like they are a really nice hybrid between a glitter and a traditional shadow. There is plenty of pigment but then the beautiful punch of glitter! 

*These products were provided for my review, some links are affiliate. 

Mary Kay Clear Proof Mask Review + Giveaway!

Monday 1 May 2017
mary kay clear proof charcoal mask


Mary Kay is expanding their Clear Proof Acne- Fighting Solutions line! On May 16th they are launching the Clear Proof Deep Cleansing Charcoal Mask. This will retail for $26 CAD and contains a hefty 4oz of product. Enter to win this mask below! 2 masks up for grabs, one for a Canadian winner and one for someone Internationally. 

"Deeply cleanse skin and reduce shine with the NEW multitasking mask created with activated charcoal, a powerful ingredient that can bind up to double its weight in pore-clogging impurities. Smooth, creamy and beautifully fluid, this mask delivers an extraordinary sensory experience."

mary kay clear proof mask
The Mary Kay Clear Proof Charcoal masks contains ingredients like extracts of peppermint and rosemary that have a great cooling sensation when applied to the skin. It does not tingle or burn in any intense way, just feels really refreshing. This mask is also formulated with honeysuckle and navy bean, which made me stop and think ... navy bean?! These have been included to help reduce skin discolouration and sooth the skin. Depending on your skin type you can put this all over your face (like I do, with my oily acne-prone skin) or just in targeted areas. 
As mentioned, I have oily acne-prone skin, so this mask really peaked my interest! It leaves my skin feeling clean and fresh, without stripping it. Depending on how much your put on it dries in about 15 minutes, and isn't hard to wash off. Some clay or charcoal masks I've dealt with take forever to get off and you end up rubbing your skin so hard to remove. That is not the case with these, with some hot water and a cloth I was easy able to remove and my skin was not left looking red. 
mary kay clear proof clay mask

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*This giveaway is sponsored by Mary Kay Canada. All opinions are my own.