Category: makeup review

Avon Crave Lip Gloss

Crave Lip Gloss Review: Scented and Tinted Lip Gloss

Scented makeup is the latest craze. Check out the newest tinted, scented makeup which is also perfect for darker skin tones.

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We all know that I am a lip gloss addict, so when it came to the new Crave Lip Gloss, you know that I was not going to miss out on this opportunity! The Crave Lip Gloss is the latest addition to the scented makeup craze.

Official details on the Crave Lip Gloss:

• Infused with moisturizing vitamin E
• Ultra-shiny
• Soft pearl finish
• Offers a kiss of buildable color

A little info on the New Crave Lip Gloss:

The lipgloss was officially released in the beginning of February 2019 but I had the chance to try them out back in January.

Originally, I purchased 7 of the 12 shades; however, I soon added two more to my lip gloss collection.

The lip glosses aren’t sticky at all and perfect for my fellow lip gloss lovers!

Definition of everyday look:

To make sure we’re on the same page, I’ll give you my definition of everyday. To me, everyday simply means that one can wear the lip gloss without makeup. You know sometimes applying any cosmetic product without a full-face or even an ounce of makeup can look a little out of place like applying red blush on a bare face. For me, everyday is simply a bare face or nearly bare face.

Swatch of the Crave Lip Gloss:

Avon Crave Lip Gloss
Crave Lip Gloss Swatch

From top to bottom:

  • Chocolate Brownie
  • Pumpkin Latte
  • Cherry Creamsicle
  • French Toast
  • Salted Caramel
  • Strawberry Glaze
  • Peach Bellini
  • Citrus Sangria
  • Birthday Cake

Not shown (say a lip gloss prayer for me because I’m thinking about ordering the rest):

  • Minted Apple
  • Honey Tea
  • Cucumber Spritzer (my friend swears by this shade and she’s darker than I am!)

What I love about the Crave Lip Gloss:

Prior to the arrival, my favorite lip gloss was the Avon True Color Glossy Tube Lip Gloss is in Natural Nude for an everyday look.

It is still one of my favorite lip glosses; however, I love that the Crave Lip Gloss has more shades than the Glossy Tube which is only available in six shades. I also like the fact that it’s scented which can be a super fun way to draw attention to your lips by a special someone if you get what I mean 😉

Thoughts on each shade and scent:

Chocolate Brownie – I love how deep and rich the color is but with that being said, it was too dark for me. This would be awesome for someone with a more medium to darker complexion. I love the little silver specks in the gloss as well. It would be a way to jazz up an otherwise blah lip look. Though this lip gloss is too dark for me, I absolutely love it! I love it for my darker skin women and love that they thought about my beauties of darker skin tones.

Pumpkin Latte – This color reminds me of a purplish brown. When I applied, it tinted my lips immediately even with the thinnest layer. For some reason, it reminds me of a coffee drink. It doesn’t smell like straight coffee but it puts me in the mood of a warm sweater, some-type-of-coffee-drink-while-cuddled-up-on-the-couch type of day. I’m not a coffee drinker and the smell of coffee repulses me but it isn’t bad.

Cherry Creamsicle – Very unique. If you love the smell of cherries, you’ll like it. With the thinnest coat, I still had a bit of a tint (may be due to my slightly lighter complexion). I applied more and it was a light raspberry tint with golden tones.

French Toast – This was the very first shade that I tried. It is more like a deeper shade of pink. It smells more like cinnamon (I’m guessing from the french toast). The color is deeper in pigment and certainly noticeable. With the thinnest layer, it is very noticeable on me. You could wear this shade without any additional lip product and still achieve a more “made up” look. The scent is great and not one of the stronger scents.

Salted Caramel – Of the 9 lip glosses that I have, this is the strongest scent. If you love salted caramel or even Garrett’s popcorn (Chitown!), you’re going to love this. I applied this and went to breakfast. I was smelling my lips more than the breakfast! It’s one of the more translucent shades and looked more neutral on me with a hint of gold. Apply it heavier and it’s a more translucent golden tint. It would be noticeable if applied heavier but not to the point where it looks as though you’ve applied a gold-peel face mask. 

Strawberry Glaze – Shockingly, this is another one of my favorites! It has a more translucent color so it’s perfect for either an everyday look or to help dazzle up your existing look. In my opinion, it’s a must-have because of its versatility. It also has a very faint scent so shouldn’t be too distracting and doesn’t really smell like strawberry to me. It smells more like pink bubble gum.

Strawberry Glaze on top of a pale nude lipstick (the lipstick almost looked like chalk on the ground):

Peach Bellini – there’s a special place in my heart for this one. Orange is my favorite color and this shade is very pigmented. With the smallest amount, you could see the orange tint on my lips. I’ve yet to try this with makeup on so right now, it is my least-used lip gloss. Hopefully, I can change that soon. I also like the smell of it. It’s a bit fruity. Doesn’t smell 100% like a real Peach Bellini but it isn’t far off (maybe this is what it would smell like without the liquor).

Citrus Sangria – This one really surprised me and is a close runner for my favorite! I love the fruity scent. I was a little nervous about the color so I applied it in a thin coat and it is SOOOOO pretty on me. It looks almost like nude lip with a little iridescent touch to spice it up just a bit but it’s not overpowering. I applied more just to see how the color would look and it is more pigmented, making the gold more noticeable. I feel this would look better for a made up look but if you’re just running to the gas station without an ounce of makeup, the best route is just a thin layer and it’s perfect for everyday.

Birthday Cake – this is the closest shade to nude and will more than likely be the replacement of the Glossy Tube in Natural Nude if they were ever to discontinue the Glossy Tube lip glosses. Birthday Cake is my absolute fave out of the 9 that I have! It’s perfect for multiple skin tones and the scent is not as strong so if you aren’t a lover of scented makeup, this should not bother you!

The shades for everyday wear:

  • Birthday Cake
  • Strawberry Glaze
  • Citrus Sangria
  • Salted Caramel
  • Pumpkin Latte
  • Chocolate Brownie

Wearing my favorite shade of Crave Lip Gloss in Birthday Cake:

Avon Crave Lip Gloss in Birthday Cake Crave Lip Gloss

Video of the Crave Lip Gloss:

As promised, I ordered the Chocolate Brownie and Pumpkin Latte :

Final thoughts on the Crave Lip Gloss:

This is hands-down the best lip gloss! What I love about it:

  1. The scents smell delicious
  2. The lip glosses aren’t sticky at all
  3. You can build up for more color
  4. The affordability!

You guys should know by now, I’m a former MAC Cosmetics girl. I’d never bash the company. My all-time favorite lip gloss is the Oyster Girl! If you’re feeling generous, send it to me! I’ll rock it 😜 but right now, I’m head over hills in love with the Crave Lip Gloss. Ladies, you can still slay and not break the bank!

A little story:

One day, I went to visit my cousin. We’re six months apart and grew up as if we were twins. As I’m entering my car, I pulled out my lip gloss and applied it. After she saw how it looked, she ordered FOUR of the True Color Glossy Tube Lip Glosses in Natural Nude. Remember, we’re like twins so she was also a MAC girl and paid almost $20 for one MAC lip gloss so she figured she could get 4 for the price of one (taxes included 😄).

She was always a MAC Lipglass in Clear type of gal. She’s been buying it since we were teens! But you know me, I love to experiment 😄

Now you guys, this has been happening for probably a year and a half. Each time she’s running low, she just texts me and I get it for her. Imagine her savings: $17.50 vs $3.99… It’s a no-brainer!

Note: look at the time stamp on the messages. You can see she’s been ordering the same lip gloss for over a year now. Yes, I switched from Android to iPhone in that timeframe.

Last week, she texted saying she needed more lip gloss. Like the best pal/cousin/twin that I am, I gave her one of the Crave Birthday Cake lip glosses. Guess what? She asked for two more!

Two faves meaning the Glossy Tube lip gloss and the Crave Lip Gloss. When you’re like external twins (not to be confused with fraternal), you develop your own language LOL

So this blog wasn’t really supposed to be about someone else’s opinion but somehow we got here 🤷🏽‍♀️

You don’t have to take my word for it. Just look at the texts. The Crave Lip Gloss is one hell of a dupe for the MAC Lipglass and once you get your hands on it, you will not turn back!

Final conclusion:

Now that I’ve experienced the Crave Lip Gloss and sat down to reevaluate my lip glosses. I am even more convinced that I get the other three: Honey Tea, Cucumber Spritzer and Minted Apple. The colors are more sheer and appear to be iridescent which would be a great way to spice up an everyday look.

To see more swatches of the Crave Lip Gloss or to get 10% off, click here. 

Best Makeup Remover Wipes for Sensitive Skin

How I Cleanse My Face Even While in Bed

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Have you heard? I have a beauty group now dedicated to giving daily tips, beauty hacks, skin care tips and inspiration! Want to be part of The Beautiful Tribe? Click here to join the Facebook group to connect with other beauty lovers, get helpful advice and share your passion!

If you’re sleeping in your makeup, it’s just like you’re sleeping in the streets. Makeup and even sunscreen can be a magnet to pollution. Think about everything you encounter on a daily basis: car exhaust, smoke, dust, etc. Then, add to the fact, it’s stuck on your face. Once you go to bed, it’s now on your pillow case and mixed with your shedded dead skin cells. It’s like they’re having a little dirty party on your face while you’re asleep unless you use a makeup remover wipe, facial cleanser, cleansing oil or micellar cleansing water. Due to my skin, I opted for makeup remover wipes for sensitive skin. I breakout easily and love makeup.

Yes, we’ve all done it before and maybe haven’t experienced many issues; BUT, over time, we’re doing more damage than good. Now that I know, I sleep with two things on my nightstand. Yes, I’ve had those long nights before but I vowed to never sleep in makeup again. The two things that I always have in arm’s reach: micellar cleansing water and moisturizer or makeup remover wipes and moisturizer.

Literally, most days when I’m feeling exhausted, drained or simply partied too much, I’m cleansing my face while undressing. Sometimes, I flop in the bed and then remove my makeup but I guarantee my makeup is removed before zzzzs. Then I apply my moisturizer. Removing dead skin, bacteria and dirt help to give you a nice natural glow.

Of course, I never had a strict regimen. Occasionally, I’d pick up some wipes or some makeup removing product from the drugstore. Usually this would happen if it was near checkout or during one of my beauty binges. I never formed a habit because I felt like I was just spending money to spend money. Nothing really worked or if it did, it didn’t last.

Some things just dried out too fast. I figured I’d save my money and just wash my face at night. Well, we all know how that goes. Zzzzs…

Until I found these makeup remover wipes.

Best Makeup Remover Wipes for Sensitive Skin

I decided that it really wasn’t worth it any more. I’d always have a pimple or two within two days of sleeping in my makeup. By now, we should all know sleeping in makeup is bad for your skin. Even if you don’t have an immediate break out, it risks bacteria being trapped in your pores. It prevents your skin from “breathing” overnight and it can also cause your skin to age prematurely which leads to fine lines and wrinkles. Oh, there’s also the bacteria that either irritates your skin or possibly even causes an eye infection. Of course, these are just the possibilities.

Some people are able to get away with it (at least for now) but why risk it? Especially when you have tools now that let’s you cleanse your face while you’re still in bed. This is why I had to try out what I’m calling the best makeup remover wipes for sensitive skin.

Check out my review here:

Yes, I’m actually going to show you how it removes my makeup.

My initial expectations:

Honestly, I used several makeup remover wipes before including the most popular ones. My issues were some wipes dried out almost as soon as I opened them. Or some wipes literally burned once I went over my eye area. There was one time I blinked so hard, I thought my eyes would burn out of my skull!

My experience with these wipes:

When receiving these, I didn’t think they’d burn but I did believe they’d dry out fast. As you see in the video, one pack lasted over six weeks and they never dried out! In my opinion, that was the best part. I’ve gone through way too many wipes that dried out. I used to actually wet them with water. Kinda defeats the purpose, doesn’t it?

The moisture in the wipe made it so easy to wipe off my entire face. I was wearing everything except eyeshadow. Since then, of course, I’ve used it to remove eyeshadow. I’m so surprised that even after wiping off my entire face, it’s still moist! And get this, I only have to use one wipe!

With that being said, I recommend having these on hand even if you aren’t wearing makeup. I recently broke out because I was working out and not cleansing my face immediately afterwards. I got into the habit of carrying micellar water but wipes may be more convenient for others, especially if you’re traveling. It’s a definite must-have.

Name of the best makeup remover wipes for sensitive skin:

What is the actual name? mark. By Avon Make It Go Away Makeup Removing Towelettes. You can view them online here. Register online here to receive a discount on your order.

https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=AW-930274219

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mark. MOD POP Eyeshadow Palette Review

mark. by Avon MOD POP Eyeshadow Palette part of the MOD collection review. Newest eyeshadow palette in 2017 for the holiday season.

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Hey beauties!

So there’s a new eyeshadow palette on the market and you know me! I had to get my hands on it!

I ordered the new mark. by Avon MOD POP Eyeshadow Palette about three weeks ago and honestly, I hesitated to try it out. To be clear, this is a special, exclusive edition eyeshadow palette to go along with the MOD Eau de Parfum Spray and  MOD Body Lotion for the 2017 holiday season. I hadn’t gone to any special events to use it :/

Here’s the MOD trio:

mark. by Avon MOD Eau de Parfum Spray
mark. by Avon MOD Body Lotion
mark. by Avon MOD POP Eyeshadow Palette

Honestly, I’m not a fan of the exterior packaging. I prefer the more sleek, stylish and sexy packaging styles. In my opinion, this is a little more retro and I’ve never been a fan of black/white so that’s just me! Once you open the package, you’re in for a real surprise!6

There are more matte shades than shimmer which is perfect for me as matte tends to show up better (from my experience with other palettes); however, the shimmer shades are absolutely fab! Do you see the shimmery peach in the far right corner? It is so beautiful!

Actual photos:

mark. by Avon MOD POP Eyeshadow Palette
mark. by Avon MOD POP Eyeshadow Palette
mark. by Avon MOD POP Eyeshadow Palette

MOD POP Eyeshadow Swatch:

mark by Avon MOD POP Eyeshadow Palette Swatch
mark by Avon MOD POP Eyeshadow Palette Swatch
mark by Avon MOD POP Eyeshadow Palette Swatch

First impression: When I first saw the palette online, I knew I needed to get it but when I saw it in-person, I was pleasantly surprised. The palette looks the same in-person as it does online but with a slightly deeper color in-person. I was worried that the shades would be more sheer, looking at the picture online. Sometimes, computers and monitors play tricks on us lol We think we’re getting one thing and it’s completely different! That’s the gamble we take ordering online, right?

I honestly looked at the colors and got a little intimidated. I couldn’t stop thinking “why the hell would they release these colors around fall?” I thought they’d be more suited for summer since they were colorful but then I actually tried them on. I can definitely see why this is a holiday edition palette. In colder months, we tend to wear more solid colors, less prints and if we’re being honest — it’s mainly cream/beige and black sweaters. The colors in this palette help complement the “boring” attire and even give a more “festive” look. Just imagine using that blue for a nice “frosty” look with your cream faux mink hat 🙂 I guess this is why we should not judge a palette on first look, huh?

Still not a fan of that black and white packaging though lol.

Pigmentation: I was pleasantly surprised by the pigmentation. The instructions say you can use the palette dry or wet it if you want a more bold look. I was able to achieve this look without wetting my brush. I used an eyeshadow primer with a beige base; however, I feel as though I probably wouldn’t need it to help develop color with the MOD POP Eyeshadow Palette. I was surprised that you can even see the color in low light situations.

Blend-ability: This has to be one of the easiest palettes in terms of blending. For the first time, I didn’t spend a lot of time blending or switching brushes. Even when I blended, the color didn’t completely disappear. It allowed for a nice, color-tinted shadow. All of the colors went on with absolutely no problem.

Price: $22 which really isn’t bad when you compare some of the other 12-shade eyeshadow palettes online. For the quality, I’d definitely say it’s worth it.

Testing out the palette: I used the blue, purple, black, a little pink and a little of the pearlescent white for this look. For the highlight under my brow, I used a gold from the Eye Dream of Glam palette.

mark. by Avon MOD POP Eyeshadow Palette
mark. by Avon MOD POP Eyeshadow Palette
mark. MOD POP in low light

Final verdict: Overall, I’m pleasantly surprised with the quality of this palette and recommend it to anyone looking to increase their collection and beginners that would like to experiment with color. Tip: make sure you always have a neutral transition shade for a more subtle look 😉

Let me know what you think! Would you wear this during the holidays? Or even just when you’re out and about?

Now available online, click here to order the mark. by Avon MOD POP Eyeshadow Palette.

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mark. by Avon MOD POP Eyeshadow Palette

New! mark. Eye Shadow Single and Clique It Compact

Check out the all new mark. by Avon line released in Campaign 10, 2017 featuring new waterproof eyeliner, hook up blush and bronzer, eyeshadows, lipstick and more!

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New! mark. Eye Shadow Single and Clique It Compact

Check out the new mark. By Avon line introduced in Campaign 10, 2017.

Check out the Sneak Peek below to see the new mark. waterproof eyeliners, blush, foundation and more!

To purchase online: http://www.chicagosbeauty.com
To become Avon representative: http://www.beautybosswins.com

Follow me on Social Media:

Facebook – http://www.Facebook.com/beautywins
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Instagram – http://www.instagram.com/chicagosnatalie
#makeup #beauty #makeupaddict #makeuplover #eyes #eyeshadow

Makeup for women of color, makeup for black women, new makeup products, best eyeshadow

Best Makeup Setting Spray Ever

Oh the hassle of not only applying your makeup but getting it to last all day! Hopefully, I’m not alone when I say this but I don’t care for the constant reapplying or touch up of makeup. I just recently figured out what it means to powder your nose. Don’t judge. Many of you know that I don’t have much time to get ready in the morning or apply makeup. When I do, I want it to last. Most makeup gurus post how to make their makeup last all day and usually it’s because of a setting spray. Naturally, I went looking online — studying makeup tutorials and searching Facebook groups. I saw a lot about Giorgio Armani Prima Refreshing Makeup Fix for $70 at Nordstorm, Urban Decay All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray for $31.00 at Sephora and L’oreal Infalliable Makeup Extender Setting Spray which retails for $16.99 at Ulta.

So what’s a girl to do if she just simply wants to wear makeup all day without breaking the bank or going through hell and high water to find a setting spray? I decided to give Avon’s True Color Makeup Setting Spray a try. Catch out the review below.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5HnHZ2pQs8o&w=560&h=315%5D

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Avon True Color Makeup Spray (freshly applied)

IMG_2731[1]
Avon True Color Makeup Setting Spray (after 11 hours + gym)

SettingSpray.jpg
Avon True Color Makeup Setting Spray

chicagosnatalieLeave a comment

Oh the hassle of not only applying your makeup but getting it to last all day! Hopefully, I’m not alone when I say this but I don’t care for the constant reapplying or touch up of makeup. I just recently figured out what it means to powder your nose. Don’t judge. Many of you know that I don’t have much time to get ready in the morning or apply makeup. When I do, I want it to last. Most makeup gurus post how to make their makeup last all day and usually it’s because of a setting spray. Naturally, I went looking online — studying makeup tutorials and searching Facebook groups. I saw a lot about Giorgio Armani Prima Refreshing Makeup Fix for $70 at Nordstorm, Urban Decay All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray for $31.00 at Sephora and L’oreal Infalliable Makeup Extender Setting Spray which retails for $16.99 at Ulta.

So what’s a girl to do if she just simply wants to wear makeup all day without breaking the bank or going through hell and high water to find a setting spray? I decided to give Avon’s True Color Makeup Setting Spray a try. Catch out the review below.

IMG_2688[1]
Avon True Color Makeup Spray (freshly applied)
IMG_2731[1]
Avon True Color Makeup Setting Spray (after 11 hours + gym)
 

SettingSpray.jpg
Avon True Color Makeup Setting Spray

To order, go to http://avon4.me/2o6MD1t.

OMG! What happened to my camera and why does my face look like this?

Avon True Color Ideal Flawless Liquid Foundation and Loose Powder review. Check out the before and after!

chicagosnatalie4 Comments

At first I was a little embarrassed to say this and even now, I can’t believe I’m typing it but I’ve got to share this with you. Part of this is actually pretty darn funny when you think about it. As you know, I hardly get the time to get all dolled up and make an appearance but it doesn’t stop me from lathering my lashes in mascara, creating arches galore eyebrows and glossing these lips.

Tuesday, I decided to take it a step further and applied foundation. It was the next step towards becoming a glamazon but I had to make it quick. When you’re up at 5:30 a.m., rarely do your eyes and mind work at the same time.

Once I got to work, I decided to get on SnapChat and crack my daily jokes but I noticed something was off. My photos and videos looked like they had a filter on them. Nothing major but like I edited the photo with the tool to soften the skin. I thought maybe it was SnapChat’s new filter (even though I don’t use them) or built-in feature.

I decided to take pictures using my regular camera and noticed the same thing. All of my pictures looked — flawless! What the hell! I couldn’t figure it out so I decided Apple must have sent out an automatic update for the camera. I asked two of my co-workers if they noticed any difference with their cameras. One co-worker has iPhone 6 Plus and the other has iPhone 7 Plus (same as I do).

We actually pulled out our phones and did mini photo-shoots to compare the cameras. We snapped pictures of walls, bags, and anything else that was nearby. All of the pictures looked about the same but they stated they didn’t notice any difference in their camera. No one dared to take a selfie. Bad hair days and such. I was so confused that I actually updated my  Facebook status  and asked my friends if they noticed anything different with their iPhone cameras! Only one person thought the camera changed but others argued that it hadn’t.

I took another selfie without makeup and OMG! Now that’s some good stuff! Any time your foundation can convince you that your camera has been secretly updated — you know you have some good stuff. I can’t believe how amazing the coverage can be. Instead of just talking about it, I wanted to show you. All pictures are untouched and unedited. I even included a picture from today with absolutely no makeup (don’t judge me).

No makeup (ewwwww):

img_1085

The best darn foundation ever (about 5 hours since applied):

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The makeup routine:

1: Cleansed with Anew Clean Refining Daily Scrub – love this stuff

2. Moisturized* with nutraeffects Balance Day Cream SPF 15 – designed for people with oily or combination skin. First time using it. Official opinion coming soon.

3. Applied Flawless Liquid Foundation – applied with beauty sponge

4. Set it with Flawless Loose Powder – just lightly dusted with large powder brush

5. Created brows with Glimmersticks Brow Definer

6. Masked the lashes in SuperExtend Nourishing Mascara

7. Puckered up with mark. Lipclick Matte Full Color Lipstick in Starlet

8. Applied blush

9. Finished it off with Makeup Setting Spray – this is the original formula, not the True Color Makeup Setting Spray. The packaging itself makes me want to scream as it looks so beautiful! Can’t wait to try it.

* Note: I skipped my MagiX Face Perfector as I wanted to try out the new mattifying moisturizer and wanted to see if it really works. I’ll try to pair both together soon and see how they work together.

Needless to say, I love it! I didn’t want to look too made up and it was perfect. You can build it to your liking and it still feels very lightweight. And the best part about all of this? It’s currently on sale for $8.99! So if you’re interested, click the pic below to pick up your bottle.

liquidfoundation
Avon True Color Flawless Liquid Foundation

Lip Gloss Haul and Swatch

Avon Lip Gloss Haul and Swatch – check out the new colors and formulas such as True Color Technology. I’ll be testing the True Color Nourishing Lipstick, Ultra Glazewear Lip Gloss, Gloss Tube Lip Gloss and mark. Glow Back Glow Hook Up Lip Gloss.

#Makeup #MakeupAddict #Lipstick #LipstickAddict #LipstickJunkie #LipGloss #LipGlossAddict #Beauty #BeautyLover #BBlogger #BeautyBlogger #BBlog

chicagosnatalie1 Comment
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Avon Lip Gloss Haul

Hi, my name is Natalie and I have a problem. I’m beginning to realize that. You see the picture above? Yea, that’s not part of a collection acquired over time. That was all purchased at the click of a button, probably 30 seconds between each click. My mom mentioned that she was looking for peach lipsticks and it reminded me that I needed to prepare for spring.

 

To be clear, I’m more of a lip gloss girl than lipstick. I have my few fave lippies but I really LOVE lip gloss 🙂 It’s an old habit that I just can’t shake. I remember the old school lip glosses from the ’90s with the glass tube and roller ball (ugh, I’m showing my age). Yes, I’m that girl — the girl that had every flavor and my favorite one — orange!!!

For the most part, I really feel like I can wear any of these glosses any day of the week. So I’m just throwing them all in my purse and when my lips get dry, I’ll just pull out one from my bag like Barney and apply 🙂

With the average “good” lip gloss costing anywhere between $20-24, you are in for a real surprise when you see what’s below! I’ve outlined each product but scroll down for the actual swatches. Yea, I swatched lip glosses. I couldn’t help myself 🙂

I’ll be reviewing each product from left to right. The prices on the right are current sales prices and subject to change. One thing I really love about this company is that the deals come around so often and even without the deal, it’s still reasonably priced. Hey! I’m a woman on a budget 🙂

Avon True Color Nourishing Lipstick in Mellow Melon – $5.99

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Avon True Color Nourishing Lipstick in Mellow Melon

In Campaign 5, 2017, Avon announced that it decided to upgrade the formulas on it’s current lipsticks and even changed the packaging to include “True Color.” True Color Technology is what Avon promises, for those of us apprehensive online shoppers, “the product you see is the product you get.” The Avon True Color Nourishing Lipstick is actually a new addition to the makeup line and not an upgraded formula for an existing product. This lipstick is infused with jojoba oil, vitamin E, collagen and lanolin. Click here to see all 10 shades swatched. 

It is truly moisturizing and feels good on the lips. I didn’t feel as though it weighed my lips down and really didn’t notice it while applied. It’s very pigmented. It actually reminded me of one of my higher-end brands that I wear around spring of every year.  I couldn’t wear all of Avon’s lipsticks due to some ingredients that felt like wax. They actually had a burning sensation that I couldn’t stand. As soon as I applied the lipstick, I took it off. I didn’t want them to puff and swell. It didn’t happen but I couldn’t take the risk of walking around like a blowfish.

The only exceptions to this were the Perfectly Matte lipsticks and Ultra Color Indulgence lipstick (replaced with Ultra Hydration Lip Color). These two lipsticks didn’t cause any reaction and the color pay off is amazing! Even with the matte formula, my lips seemed super moisturized and I never had any of the embarrassing scenes of cracked/chapped lips.

Final judgement: a definite must-buy. I was skeptical of purchasing more than one shade due to the aforementioned possible allergic reaction but now that I see that it doesn’t exist; the lipstick is pigmented and feels so good — I’d be a fool not to buy more!

For more information on the new product changes/replacements, click here for the complete guide.

Avon Ultra Glazewear Lip Gloss – $5.99

Avon Ultra Glazewear in Citrus Shine and Pale Peach
Avon Ultra Glazewear in Pale Peach and Citrus Shine

In all fairness, I’m already a purchaser of the Ultra Glazewear Lip Glosses but this is the first time that I’ve ever purchased the two shades above (Citrus Shine and Pale Peach). Prior to this purchase, I had about 4 shades of the Glazewear lip glosses (Iced Pink, Mocha Latte, Rich Brown, and Perfect Nude). I just recently acquired the Clear and Creamy Nude which should  be arriving in a couple of days (you’re beginning to see I have a problem, aren’t you?).

At any rate, I like the fact that this lip gloss is very lightweight. To put it simply, it is a very “clean” lip gloss. By clean, I mean that it isn’t heavy, it doesn’t stick and it’s not runny. You hardly notice that you are wearing any at all. The coverage is sheer but you can definitely tell that you’re wearing lip color. When I apply the Mocha Latte or Rich Brown, people ask what “lipstick” am I wearing (yes, it’s sheer coverage but noticeable).

Final judgement: I love this lip gloss. I feel it’s very appropriate for the workplace by adding a hint of femininity without being too aggressive/arrogant. It’s a nice, subtle touch. Perfect for no makeup days and very “natural” days.

Avon True Color Glossy Tube Lip Gloss – $4.99

Avon True Color Glossy Tube Lip Gloss in Dreamy Peach and Natural Nude
Avon True Color Glossy Tube Lip Gloss in Dreamy Peach and Natural Nude

In comparison to the Ultra Glazewear Lip Gloss (listed above), I’d have to say this is “heavy duty.” The lip gloss seems slightly more heavy as it delivers more gloss and pigmentation. According to Avon, it’s infused with vitamins. Prior to today, I owned one shade of this lip gloss in a very pigmented pastel pink. It smelled like cotton candy 🙂

The Glossy Tube really does deliver when it says shine. I feel as though you can skate on this lip gloss. It’s not oily and doesn’t even contain oil. This lipstick puts me back in the mindset of “my lip gloss is popping.” This is truly a gloss for those that want to be seen and noticed, from a distance.

Final judgment: this is my absolute fave! Now remember, I am that girl that loves the roller ball lip gloss. What’s the point of wearing makeup if no one can notice it? Yep! That’s me! This lip gloss differently grabs attention and though it’s sheer coverage, it’s easily build-able.

mark. Glow Baby Glow Hook Up Lip Gloss – 2/$15 (other wise, $10 each)

mark. Glow Baby Glow Hook Up Lip Gloss in Chica Luxe and Pretty Luxe
mark. Glow Baby Glow Hook Up Lip Gloss in Pretty Luxe and Chica Luxe
mark. Glow Baby Glow Hook Up Lip Gloss in Pretty Luxe and Chica Luxe

The two things that I noticed about these lip glosses are the smell and the ability to “hook-up.” The lip glosses have a very soft candy-like scent. It’s not overpowering but noticeable. I love the idea of hook-ups as you can hook-up any mark. product and carry two products versus one. For example, you can attach your eyeliner to a lip gloss and have one solid piece versus fiddling through your purse for both products.

The consistency reminds me of the Glossy Tube Lip Gloss. Major differences would be the shades available, the applicator (tube vs doe foot applicator) and mark. seems to have more glitter/sparkly but other than that, it really comes down to a matter of personal preference. I can see myself using either.

Swatches: 

 

Avon True Color Lip Gloss Swatch
Avon True Color Lip Gloss Swatch
Avon True Color Lip Gloss Swatch
Avon True Color Lip Gloss Swatch

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If you would like to order, click here to go to the online Avon store.

Avon For the Love of Makeup Artist Palette: Preview, Review and Photos

Avon True Color For the Love of Makeup Artist Palette Preview, Review, and Photos. Now available online, get yours today at http://avon4.me/2cpdiWu.

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Avon True Color For the Love of Makeup Artist Palette does not officially hit the brochures until Campaign 23, 2016; however, I was able to get my hands on this palette ahead of time and wanted to share my results with you — hence, the “preview” description. Though it doesn’t pop up in brochures for another 2-4 weeks, depending on where you’re located, it is exclusively available online right now! In the video above, I show the colors upfront. For today’s fall inspired look, I decided to use the new For the Love of Makeup Artist Palette (pics shown below).

This palette includes:

• 30 Eyeshadows (18 shimmer/metallic and 12 matte)

• 5 Lip Glosses

• 3 Powder Blushes

• 2 Powder Highlighters

• 1 Powder Contour

• 1 Dual-Ended Eye Applicator

• 1 Lip Applicator

• 1 Cheek Applicator

• Palette measures 4 3/4″ L x 7 1/2″ W x 3/4″ H

Overall: I’m very pleased with this palette. It’s very affordable — 41 products for $19.99. The creamy metallic eyeshadows are very smooth and easy to blend. The color payoff is good in relation to the price. My only concern is the light shade of contour. For women with darker complexions, this may not be one of the products that you use but still, a great product for the price.

Want to give the new palette a try? Click here to get your new Avon For the Love Of Makeup Artist Palette.

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Avon For the Love of Makeup Artist Palette: Fall Makeup Look

Products used from the For the Love of Makeup Artists Palette to create this look:

Fawn Contour

Bronze Highlight

Pearl Highlight

Peach Glow (blush)

Plum Radiance (blush)

Ginger Matte (eyeshadow)

Amethyst Metallic (eyeshadow)

Wine Shimmer (eyeshadow)

Rose Metallic (eyeshadow)

Gunmetal Shimmer (eyeshadow)

While on the Avon site, I noticed the metallic eyeshadows are on sale for $3.99! They go on like butter 🙂 If you’re only interested in getting the metallic shades, hurry. They’re limited time offer. Eyeshadows available in shades:

Rose Metallic

Copper Metallic

Plum Metallic 

Silver Metallic

metallic
Avon Mega Metals Cream Eyeshadow

Buy Avon online now.

 

mark. All Butter Now Lip Treat Review

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Just purchased the mark. All Butter Now Lip Treat in Bare All and I must say — it is an absolute must-have. It’s available in 8 different shades and offers both sheer-to-medium and medium-to-full coverage.

Sheer-to-medium coverage: mauvelous, terra hotta, bare all, baby me.
Medium-to-full coverage: razzmatazz, fired up, pop tart, coraltini.

• Increases lip moisture by 124%
• Infused with shea, cocoa and mango seed butters plus vitamin E
• Treats dry, rough lips
• Delivers color with buttery shine
• 0.10 oz. net wt.

Click here to get your mark. All Butter Now Lip Treat.

 

mark. Maui Bliss Collection Just Released

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Welcome to Campaign 12, 2016 or should I say Aloha? What??? You’re not in Hawaii. Why are you saying Aloha?

With the new Mark. Maui Bliss Collection, you’d swear you were on some type of island. Just in time for summer, Mark. has really stepped its game up with the introduction of the All is Palm Maxi Dress, matching accessories, fragrance and of course — MAKEUP. I had to try it out. My inner islander wouldn’t let me rest. To appease her, I decided to purchase the Mark. Sunset Glow Face Bronzer, Mark. Hawaii Five Oh! Eyeshadow Compact and Mark. Sea And Be Seen Beach Bag.

I must say I REALLY LOVE MARK. I did a quick swatch of the face bronzer and OMG. The pigmentation is AH-MAZING! The Mark. Hawaii Five Oh! has such beautiful colors. I’ve been wearing my beach bag since I purchased it even though I haven’t been to the beach.

I’m a hoarder and this beach bag gives me the perfect amount of space needed. I’ve been able to keep brochures, all of my personal makeup, wallet and more.

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Mark. Sea And Be Seen Beach Bag
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Mark. Sunset Glow Face Bronzer

 

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Mark. Hawaii Five Oh! Eyeshadow Compact
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Mark. All is Palm Maxi Dress

Check out all of mark. products here and watch the mini video below: