Chit Chat Wednesday | Using Tape For Contouring?

Not too long ago a famous Instagram user, HudaBeauty, uploaded a video of her using tape to cream contour. Supposedly, the tape is used to help place your contour to make it more symmetrical. 

Ok, now that my head is finally out of the palm of my hands and my eyes are tired of rolling, let's chit chat about this. 

I get that contouring can be tricky and I know it can be hard to get your contour even but I just don't see why this would be a good idea. I love HudaBeauty, don't get me wrong, she's great with makeup. ..However, I think this is a little gimmicky. 

I'm sure the tape pulls off foundation and messes up your base. It sure would suck to lift up a $45 foundation and lose coverage. It just seems like too much work for the same look without tape. I do, however, think this may be handy for nose contouring. Sometimes it can be hard to get those lines symmetrical and I'm sure most people don't need much coverage on their nose. 

Personally I'm not going to try this. It would be a nightmare to lift the tape just to reveal irritated acne. 😖 I feel like it would take forever to get the tape just right. And I'm sure the bill for tape would dramatically increase, haha. Surely it's just a silly trend that will pass soon but still, I'm sure the beauty community can come up with a better hack... Like, I don't know, baking! 

If you do try this let me know how it works out! Maybe it does work, who knows. I'm sure those of you with decent skin might enjoy testing it out. 

Reminder: this is a bad idea if you have allergies to any kind of adhesives, etc. 

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My Dream Foundation

It just so happens that the most important thing in our makeup rountine can also be the most difficult thing to master... Foundation.

 It's not because we utterly suck at applying our base, instead it's because we haven't found our dream foundation.

The foundation that matches our skintone and undertone. The foundation that sinks into our skin without accentuating our big potholes called pores. The foundation that wows us by not making us look dry or oily.

What would your dream foundation be?

My dream foundation would have to be remarkable. Something that goes above and beyond most people expectations. I need a natural foundation that covers everything- pimples, redness, dry patches, scars, and pores. I don't want to lean in close to the mirror and see pore city or crusty scabs. Now Im thinking of crusty crabs, haha. MMM.. burgers. Anyway, even though the dont-stick-to-dry-patches aspect contradicts my other need, I do need something that doesn't let oil seep through. The only thing on my face that should be popping with light, is my highlight, not my oily crater face. If a foundation doesn't last all day, it's out the door. I don't have time for that! But the most important thing to me is coverage. I have a crap ton to cover. Concealers just are not practical when I have a face full of acne. Are you kidding me? My face looks more like a cake than my actual birthday cake if I apply concealer to every problem spot. So I need a foundation with a high amount of pigment to get the job done. It's now 2016, this foundation I dream of should be here already.

If my dream foundation is created, I hope and pray the shade selection is decent. Wouldn't it be a bummer if I couldn't find a color match?! Take note companies!

What is your dream foundation? Is it similair to mine or the complete opposite? Let me in on your dream in the comments below!

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Quick Review | Maybelline Master Prime Long-Lasting Eyeshadow Base

Eye primer is one of those things I hate spending money on. I know its important but my goodness, it's a hard product to get excited about.

The only way I'll truly look forward to buying it is if the primer is from the drugstore. I love a good deal on anything but especially boring cosmetics like primer.

I bought mine for $7.99 in the Prime & Matte formula. The other two finishes are: Prime & smooth, and Prime & Illuminate. 

If you're familiar to my blog, you already know I love Milani's primer and it's affordable just like Maybellines. Now let's see how the Maybelline version performs!

My first test for the primer is color enhancement and payoff. The first day I received it I swatched it on my arm and applied sheer shadow over the swatch. As you can see in the picture above, the primer does provide a nice tacky base for eye shadow. I honestly don't feel the tackiness to the touch much but I can tell its there by how the shadow clings to the primer. It really helps with making shadows a lot more prominent in color. Just keep in mind the base will need to be set if you're going to do any blending. This primer, just like other primers, can make the crease area look patchy if product is applied directly on top of the primer for blending.

Now does it help eye makeup last longer? Mostly, but it is average at tackling longevity. It's not necessarily bad but it's certainly not the best I have tried. It's truly just average. If you're on the hunt for a better oil control eye primer, try Milani's. For my semi-oily eyes, Maybelline's Master Primer provides a crease-less wear for 6-8 hours. 

Does it neutralize darkness on my eye lids? Not really. I actually thought my eye lids looked darker on my pale skintone. The tone to this primer is warm and semi-pigmented. It has just enough pigment to add color but not eough to conceal color. Its sheerness actually makes my skin look more uneven. However, that personally doesn't bother me too much because I'm going to cover it with eye shadow anyways.  One thing I do like about the primer is for adding extra warmth in my crease. It adds a little extra something in the crease to help fade out my eye shadow. But because of this, keep in mind it may look terrible with cool-toned looks, unless you completely cover the warmth.

The packaging for the Maybelline Master Primer is super nice. It reminds me a lot of the new Vivid Matte Lips they just released. It comes in a square, clear plastic tube with a doe-foot applicator. The wand is really flexible and comfortable to use. Maybelline nailed the packaging. 

Overall, I guess this primer is pretty good but I still feel like it's just average. I cant say if the other two formulas perform like the matte but I'm sure they work about the same. It does provide a decent wear time, and help enhance color payoff. However, my favorite is still the Milani primer. I will continue using this one, and who knows, maybe I'll try the other formulas if I come across a promising sale. For the price I say try it if you're curious but don't purchase it if your solely searching for a holy-grail. 

Have you tired the other two formulas? What is your opinion on this primer? Let everyone know in the comments below!

Pros

• Smooth
• Creamy
• Packaging 
• Price
• Blends easily
• Enhanced color payoff
• Smooth finish
• Different finishes
• Adds some extra longevity 

Cons

• Just average
• A little too warm
• Can be uneven 

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Review | Maybelline Master Contour Face Contouring Kit

 Use to I would tell everyone to buy a foundation powder a couple shades darker than their skin if they wanted a contour powder for a reasonable price. We can all still do that but now we finally have the option to buy an affordable contour kit from the drugstore. Thank goodness!

This spring we have the luxury of picking from many new contour kits dropping into drugstores like rain but for now the only one I have spotted is the Maybelline FaceStudio Master Contour Kit. 

I found mine at Ulta for $12.99. There are two color options- Light to Medium or Medium to Deep. I chose the light option since I have fair skin. Both palettes contain one contour powder, one blush and one highlight. I do think the medium to deep palette has a cooler contour powder (I think). It will probably be their best seller of the two. I kind of wish I also picked it up too, even though I love this one.

Natural lighting

Contour 1

We'll start with the highlight of the palette, the contour shade. The contour shade is the softest powder in the kit. It blends easily with a fluffy brush. It's smooth, pigmented and doesn't kick up much powder. I don't find it to be chalky or patchy. It does last on all day (about 8 hours).

  Although it is a contour powder, I think of it more as a bronzer. It can still be used as a contour shade if you're light handed. The tone is warmer, girls with cool undertones probably won't like this powder for contouring. If you have neutral or warm undertones it may work for you. My undertone is neutral and I can get it to work if I lightly contour. I wouldn't recommend using it for sharp contouring. 

Natural lighting 

Blush 2

I like the formula of this blush. It's smooth, pigmented and bendable. However, I don't find the color to be particularly unique. The shade may already exist in your collection but if not, It's a great addition. It doesn't fade away in patches or accentuate my acne. I like it enough that I would purchase it in a single. The wear time is the same as the bronzer (about 8 hours).

Natural lighting 

Highlight 3

The drugstore is not loaded with great highlighters. So when I do find one I like, I usually praise it. To me, this whole kit is worth the money just for the highlighter. I'm not saying it's the only good thing this kit has to offer but it is what stands out the most. It's really creamy and non-chalky. When applied it doesn't look like powder sitting on top of the skin or frosty. It gives off a subtle but glowy vanilla highlight. The wear time clocks in around 6 hours or longer if a setting spray is used. 

This kit did come with little brush...I hate to break it to ya, but it's pretty useless. The size of it is too small for contouring or applying blush. You could use it for highlighting but it's a little scratchy. Mine has a new home in the trash can.

The packaging is slim and black. It does not come with a mirror, boo! I haven't had any problems with the powders popping out but some people have. If that does happen, super glue will work just fine to pop them back into place. 

Overall, I really like this palette. I promise everyone can use the contour shade like we want to but it makes a great bronzer. Or like I said, it depends on the person, it can be used as a contour shade if you're careful or have the correct skintone. Just don't build it up so much that it looks too warm.
 I find that all three formulas are really good. I didn't experience patchiness, odd fading, or trouble blending. I'll definitely continue using it, especially when I travel! It makes a great travel palette if you're makeup bag is small. 

Artificial lighting 

Let me know in the comments below if you plan to purchase this kit! And if you already have, what do you think about? Does the contour shade work for you? 

Pros

• smooth 
• pigmented 
• blendable 
• long wearing
• non patchy
• fades evenly
• great for travel
• packaging 
• good formula
• price

cons

• no mirror
• lacks a broad color selection
• unusable brush
• contour is a little warm

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Chit Chat Wednesday | When Brands Mislabel Their Products

You know what really grinds my gears? When cosmetic companies mislabel their products. 

The other day I was shopping at the drugstore and I picked up a matte liquid lippie from a brand I trust (I won't point fingers). You'll know who it is in a future review because I'm sure as heck going to mention it regardless of how I feel about the brand. I actually love the brand I'm talking about but it just ticks me off that brands mislead us. 

If a lipstick says liquid matte then it should perform like a liquid matte lipstick. I won't go into to details of the product, as I'm sure you're confused about what I'm talking about. However, I know you know what I mean. Why do companies do this? There are going to be reviews of the product, so why lie? Your customers are what makes your company thrive, why would you lie to them? 

I just wish companies would be honest about what a product is and how it performs. Did you know companies can say a product lasts for 24 hours just because a trace of that product is still visible? How misleading! We don't want a trace of that so called product, we want it to look the same as it did when we first applied it if it does claim a 24 hour wear. Hello, that's why we purchased it. 

Tell me, what products have you purchased that mislead you. It can be the name or claims. Right now I have two new spring releases that have fooled me. Leave a comment below! 

Check my snapchat for a sneak peek to see what those products are! 

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L'Oreal Lumi Cushion Foundation | Review For Acne Prone Skin

How exciting is it that America is finally jumping on the cushion band wagon?! Cushion foundations have been a popular item in Korea for a while now. They are known for their flawless finish and buildable coverage.

There are a whopping amount of 12 shades available, starting at Light Ivory and ending at Cocoa.  The shade I have is N2. The price is $16.99. Wait. What? Yes, freaking $17 for a drugstore foundation! What the heck Loreal?! And the amount of product is even cut in half (52 oz)! This item is permanent at the drugstore.

The shades are pretty accurate to the sticker on the compact. When you first open the foundation the cushion looks a little darker than the actual foundation. So don't be alarmed about a wrong color match.  

The packaging is very cute. The foundation comes in a bulky compact with a rose gold lid. The top lid lifts up and reveals a large mirror and sponge.There is another protective lid that clicks and seals in the cushion foundation. Although I do love the packaging, it can be hard to tell if the sealing lid shuts completely. ( It does by the way, it's just hard to tell since it doesn't click convincingly)

 I'm pretty confident that the packaging will keep the cushion saturated in product. One of my first thoughts was, "Oh no, it's going to dry out like a sharpie marker". Nope, were fine in that department. Now my main concern is bacteria. Granted, the sponge does have an anti- microbial layer but will that really keep bacteria at bay? Who knows!

Swatch: Looks yellow in the picture but in person it's more neutral. 

Oh, coverage,  I'm sure that's what every one is concerned about. I do find the Lumi Cushion foundation to be buildable as in the sense it builds well without looking cakey. However, I don't agree about the coverage being buildable. Even with three layers on, it almost looks the same as it does with one layer- sheer coverage. It does cover redness but not problem areas. The only thing I'll personally use it for is a base foundation for fuller coverage or for any everyday wear to take my dog outside... Acne sufferers will understand what I mean by that. 

Left to right: No foundation, One Layer, Two Layers, Three Layers 

The finish is very flawless and lightweight. It really does live up to the cushion foundation hype. I find no matter how much I apply it always blends into a flawless base. Speaking of blending, darn this stuff is easy to apply. It's as simple as patting and moving on to powder. It's such an easy product to use.

It doesn't emphasize pores or dry patches! Unfortunately, it can accentuate peach fuzz, so be sure to wax beforehand. 

The lasting power is average. It stayed on my combo skin for 5 hours before my oil started to break through. After that point it turned my face started to look like a frying pan.  I do set it with Rimmel Stay Matte powder and I have been using Nivea's After Shave Balm as a primer. Since it has a dewy finish that doesn't set completely, I feel the need to set wherever I applied it. For now on, I may use an oil control primer to prevent oil seeping through! 

 I feel like those who have super oily skin will despise this foundation. Normal skin gals out there will probably love it, as well as dry.

Overall, I do like this foundation even though the coverage sucks. L'Oreal didn't claim it to be a full coverage foundation, so I'm not going to penalize it for that reason alone. I like the finish, shade range, blend-ability, the way it applies, packaging, weight and how it doesn't have a smell. The only things I don't like is the price for the amount you get and the potential for bacteria growth. I don't see it replacing my foundation but it may be my new base product. I love how it smooths over my dry patches and provides a thin layer of extra coverage. I'll finish it up but I won't repurchase it just because I do require more coverage for my acne. 

Pro's

•  doesn't break me out!
• buildable
• flawless finish
• easy to apply
• lightweight
• great base foundation
• blends easily
• shade selection
• no smell
• very saturated 
• nice packaging
• Natural looking 
• Covers redness 

Con's

• sheer coverage
• pricey for drugstore
• little amount of product
• may not be sanitary 
• Can Accentuate peach fuzz 

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2015 Beauty Favorites Roundup | Top 6, Best Brushes & Skincare

 I love makeup unconditionally but my favorite thing this year was my blog. To me, my blog is my personal creative outlet and the place where I can share my love for beauty. In my life, no one around me shares love for makeup like everyone does on the online beauty community.

 It's a wonderful thing to see so many girls (and boys) slay the makeup game and support one another. I have never felt more connected with anyone than I do to those in our amazing beauty community.

 Sure, the makeup and brands are the reason we are all here but we the beauty junkies are what makes this community great. I just hope I can add to that inspiring community with my blog.

Always know I appreciate your time that you spend reading my blog. It sincerely completes my year when I know someone is bonding with me over makeup through my blog. I love you all!

To round up my 2015 favorites I thought it would be a fun idea to pick my ultimate favorites from each category. Down below you'll find 6 products, two from each individual post. So keep reading to see whats the best of the best. You never know, you might find that next amazing product you cant live without!

 The Base Is What's Important! Favorite Face Products of 2015

• Stila One Step Step Correct Trip Swirl Helix Primer

•  Dermablend Intense Powder Camo 

The Eyes Are The Window To The Soul Favorite Eyes Products of 2015

• Morphe 35N palette

• Urban Decay Moondust Eyeshadow in Solstice 

It's all about the lips!  Favorite Lip Products of 2015
 

• Maybelline Color Sensatinal Creamy Matte Lipstick

• Too Faced Melted Liquid Lipstick  

Now let's talk about those extra products that are not the center of attention. I know skincare is the most important but I really dont have many favorites for skincare. I still havent found my holy grail products for every skincare need. Brushes on the other hand I have a pretty decent bunch I love and use daily. Let's see what they are. 

Favorite brush brands 

Highend: Sigma 

Sigma is my favorite high end brand for brushes. They last and feel like they are made with the highest quality on the market but the prices are not bad at all. I mean it's not like Elf but its more like the Olive Garden of makeup- It's not too expensive but you would never know if it wasn't for the label. 

My favorite brush that I can not live without is the Sigma E25. I know so many people talk about it and I'm sure you're ready to throw up. But hear me out...mMy shadow game has changed since I started using this brush. My crease has never looked as defined as it is now. And The E25 just swoops right in there and smokes out my outer corner like no other. And, my god, it's so incredibly soft. If I could only keep one brush in my whole collection, this would be the one.  

Drugstore: Real Techniques, Sonia Kashuk (black handle line), or e.l.f  (studio)

 I know, I know, not everyone wants to spend a lot of  $$$ on brushes. Luckly, there are so many great drugstore brands out there. Sonia Kashuk, in particulary, is my favorite. The black handle line looks far more superior than any other brush line you'll find in the glorious isles of Target. The handles are sleek, fancy, durable and the bristles are tremendously soft. The prices are a little up there for drugstore but they are still cheaper than our beloved high end brands. 

My favorite Sonia Kashuk brush is the Flat Top Multipurpose brush  I love this brush partly for the reasons I listed above. It's perfect for blending out foundation. It doesn't leave streaks but instead leaves a flawless finish. I don't always use foundation brushes but when I do I use the Sonia Kashuk Flat Top Multipurpose brush.  

Other brush brands I love from the drugstore are Real Techniques and elf. Both brands make fantastic brushes. Elf brushes are made a little cheaper. It can be hit or miss. However, the majority of the Studio brushes are pretty good. If you're interested I can do a separate post exclusive to their brushes, just ask.  

Skincare of 2015

I only have three products to share with you. I honestly haven't found much of anything in skincare that has blown my mind. I guess I'm pretty picky because of my acne. Not just any product will please me. 

The first item I thought of is the Garnier Moisture Rescue Refresh Gel Cream. It's lightweight but really moisturizing. I love it for under my makeup. It really sinks in fast and flattens any dry patches I may have. My makeup has changed a lot since I started using it in December. My skin looks a lot smoother and moisturized. My foundation stays on longer and doesn't suck up all the moisture and leave behind a cakey mess like it tends to do. When I run out I will definitely purchase more!  

I'm sure you can guess the next product, Glamglow Supermud Clearing Treatment Mask . My god, I love this mask. It helps my acne tremendously! My only problem with it is the price ($70). I just can't bring myself to purchase a mask that much. It helps a lot but it's only temporary and I go through it pretty fast. I say try it if you have the money for it. Please, don't purchase it though if you only want to buy it once... You'll be heart broken when you run out. It's like a vacuum for dirt, oil and black heads. It's amazing stuff. 

My last favorite is the St. Ives Clearing Green Tea Scrub . My skin loves this stuff. It doesn't completely get rid of my acne but it does a lot better with it than other scubs I have tried. My breakouts chill out for a while and go on vacation. Even when I do have a breakout the redness eases away after I wash my face with this stuff. It's alsogentle enough to use daily on my sensitive skin. I can't guarantee it will work for everyone. We all have different skin but I can say my experience has been pleasant. I do recommend trying it atleast once, it won't break the bank. 

Well that was fun! I hope you enjoyed this post and found something useful. Let me know what your favorites of 2015 are in the comments below! 

I have purchased a lot of new makeup to review that just launched! So be sure to come back and see what spring launches are worth checking out! And as always, if you have any request just let me know. I love picking up products to review for you! 

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2015 Beauty Favorites | Lips

 I am on it this year! Last year it took me almost all of January to complete my yearly favorites. I guess I had a lot of repeat winners this year. Plus, I have been inspired to talk about my own thanks to Youtube.

In this post I included all of my favorite lip products. I am going to write one more post with all of the links to each segment for my 2015 Beauty Favorites. I may include some of my favorite brushes and skincare items. So be sure to come back and check that out. You can find me on  Bloglovin for your convenience. 

Lipstick (Tube) 

Highend: Urban Decay Revolution Lipstick $22

  The Revolution lipsticks apply evenly to the lips and provide extra moisture from the creaminess of the lipstick. I'm a big fan of matte lipstick but creams are still my favorite... And these are the best! The stay on my lips for 5 or more hours. The darkest shades don't bleed from my lips or smear around. And Don't even get me started on the packaging. It's a good lipstick line all around. 

Drugstore: Maybelline Color Sensational Creamy Matte lipstick in Touch of Spice $7.99

Maybelline's Color Sensational Creamy Mattes are the definition of creamy lipsticks for a matte formula. Touch of Spice is a affordable lipstick that has high end qualities. It's creamy, pigmented and long-lasting. If you're looking for that perfect Kylie Jenner look that is affordable, this is your best bet. It's an amazing lipstick and the shade is trendy.

Lipstick (liquid) 

Highend: Too Faced Melted liquified Long wear Lipstick $21

The first thing I have to mention about Too Faced Melted lipstick is the smell. They smell A.M.A.Z.I.N.G. They feel very thin on the lips but pack a serious punch of color. They don't apply streaky or patchy. I can't find a single thing wrong with them. Even the applicator is perfection. They also last for hours and hours!

*Drugstore: Colourpop Ultra Liquid Lipstick $6

Colourpop is the best brand out their for affordable liquid lipstick. The formula actually dries down to a complete matte finish and stays on for the whole day. The Lipstick line has many options to choose from and the price is only $6. The formula is very drying but that's not irregular for matte liquid lipsticks. Some of the shades do have a different formula. They seem to be more hydrating but don't dry completely.  Usually it's the limited Edition shades that have that unique formula. Other than that all of the other liquids have the complete matte, not going anywhere, formula. The only thing I have noticed is if you rub your lips the lipstick can crumble. Nonetheless, It's still my favorite drugstore liquid lipstick line. 

Lip Liner

Highend: Urban Decay 24/7 Glide On Lip Pencil $20

 Both of these lip liners are smooth and creamy. They pro long the wear of my lipstick and give me a much fuller look that lasts all day. I love the Urban Decay liners but for the price, I say go with the Nyx slim lip pencils. 

Drugstore: NYX Slim Lip Pencil $3.49

Please read the description for the high end option above. 

Lip gloss

Highend: BareMinerals Marvelous Moxie lip gloss  $18

 The Marvelous Moxie lipglosses are beautiful, long wearing, non streaky and very creamy. They are one of the best lipgloss formulas out there. Not to mention their shades are adorable. They're my favorite high end formula but not my favorite formula on the whole market. This next product is! 

Drugstore: Rimmel Show Off Lip gloss (being discontinued in 2016) $4.99

Rimmel Show Off lip lacquers are my favorite lip glosses. They're so so creamy, non-sticky  and pigmented. The shades are so pretty and the price is affordable for everyone. I really wish they weren't being discontinued this year! Buy them while you still can! 

Lip Stain

Highend: It Cosmetics Vitality Lip Blush Hydrating Gloss Stain $24

The It Cosmetics Vitality Lip Blush Hydrating Gloss Stains are sooo moisturizing. If you want a nice tint to your lips when you wake up in the morning and hydrated lips, then buy this Lipstain. The shades are beautiful and pigmented. The packaging is really nice and the wand is super useful. The only downfall is the price. I think they would be a lot better if they were more affordable. 

Drugstore: Revlon Color Stay Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain $9.49

These balm stains come in the form of a chubby stick. The chubby stick allows precise application with easy effort. They come in tuns of cute colors. They're affordable but still perform like beasts. They stay on the lips all day and wear off evenly. I'm sure you'll love 'em.

Chapstick/ Balm 

Highend: Benefit Lip Hydrator $18

 I really like these lip hydrators because they have a tint to them but are still moisturizing. They last a really long time for a lip balm. The packaging is adorable and convenient.

Drugstore: Burts Bees Lip Balm Tin $2.80-3.29

You need this in your life. It's super moisturizing and affordable. It's my favorite lip balm of all time. That's really all I can say about a Chapstick, haha. 

Well, that's it! I had a lot of fun writing this post. I love lip products so much. Don't forget to leave a comment telling me your beauty favorites. Are ours the same?

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2015 Beauty Favorites | Eyes

I'm back with my beauty favorites of 2015! Only this time we are talking about products for our eyes. Let me tell ya, I am so freaking picky when it comes to eye makeup. Well, eyeshadow not so much but everything else has to be spot on. I have very sensitive eyes that have to blink a lot. When I do blink, cheap formulas always smudge and wipe away. So anything that you see in this post is top notch!

Eye primer

*Highend: Urban Decay Original Eye Primer $20

There are so many eye primers out there on the market. Every one has a different favorite but the primer potion is my tried and true. I can always rely on it for a long, vibrant wear. One day when I get married this will be the primer I put my faith into.

Drugstore: E.l.f Mineral eye primer $3

 E.l.f's eye primer is somewhat similar to Urban Decays, just not as good. However, it's great for the price. It will keep my eyeshadow in place all day long. If I ever do run out of primer, this is the first one that comes to mind if I need to purchase one in a jiffy.

Eye Shadow palette

*Highend: Too Faced Semi-Sweet Chocolate Bar $49

I actually just got this palette not too long ago. I always thought the original chocolate bar was amazing but I was wrong. The Semi-Sweet has softer shadows and the colors are even better. Though, either way, both palettes contain a great assortment of neutral/must have shades. I can't live without either one!

*Drugstore: Morphe 35 N $19.99

I'm not going to lie, Morphe can be hit or miss when it comes to their eyeshadows. Luckily, with the 35N palette I think the majority of the shades perform like high quality makeup. They're soft, blendable and pigmented. The staying power is good but better with a primer. The price point is what makes it a top competitor. The palette cost me around $20 and contains 28 beautiful shadows. I reach for it all the time when I am in the mood to play around with my makeup. The variety of looks is astounding with this palette.

Single eyeshadow

*Highend: Urban Decay Moondust Eyeshadow in Solstice   $21

I know the Moondust eyeshadows are not traditional eyeshadows but I included them anyway. I love how unique the properties are of the Moondust shadows. They're basically for the mobile lid alone but I can't help but think of these when I try to pick my favorite high end shadow of 2015. The iridescence is so dimensional and star striking. It can be applied dry for a nice sweep of color & glitter or applied wet for a full dimension of different tones. The tone of the shadow can be different depending on the base you apply under it.

*Drugstore: NYX Prismatic Eyeshadows $5.99

I used to love the Loreal infallible eyeshadows the most but once I tried the Prismatic formula everything changed. Like the Loreal, they are metallic/ shimmery, affordable, smooth, pigmented and long wearing. The only difference is the Nyx formula is a little creamer, so the shadows are not as powdery and have less fallout. My only grudge about the Prismatic shadows is the durability. They tend to crumble easily. Other than that, I love them to pieces! 

Cream eyeshadow

Highend: Mally Ever color Shadow stick $25

Looking for a creamy eyeshadow stick that doesn't budge all day? Go pick up one of Mallys Ever Color shadow sticks. They blend out easily, then once set, they don't move. Plus, they're very pigmented.

Drugstore: Maybelline Eye Studio Color Tattoos $6.99

This is one of those cases where the drugstore out beats the high end brands. Maybelline's color tattoos are so amazing. Everytime I use one I'm blown away by its awesomeness. They are PIGMENTED. They don't just blend into nothing like some cream shadows. No, they stand out and they're like a tattoo. Do they blend easily? Of course (before they set)!  They're only $7 and you get a lot for your money. You need them in your life.

Gel eyeliner

*Highend: Tarte Tarteist Gel Liner $24

This stuff is so great. It glides over my wrinkly eye lids like no other. It's intense black and lasts all day. If you're looking for a highend liner, this is the one. You won't be disappointed.

Drugstore: Essence Gel Eyeliner $3.99

Essence has the best gel liner. It's shockingly creamy, long wearing, lasts forever in the jar, and it's even more wickedly black than Sigma's. Best part is it's less than $4.

Liquid eyeliner

Highend: Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner $22

This liner is very pigmented and easy to apply. It's darker than your exes heart! I really love the thin tip and how it locks into place all day. 

Drugstore: NYC Liquid Liner $2.77

I love the wand on this liquid liner. It's so thin and precise. I'm able to achieve a wing with ease and it always looks great. It's super black and doesn't move all day.

Pencil eyeliner

Highend: Urban Decay 24/7 Glide On Eyeliner in Perversion $20

 This eyeliner is very creamy, pigmented, rich, blendable and smudgeable(before it dries)....BUT, it's not as good as Pixi's Endless Silky pen in Black Noir. Yet again, another instance when the drugstore beats high end brands.

Drugstore: Pixi Endless Silky Eye Pen in Black Noir $12.19

This eyeliner is like a gel eyeliner in pen form. Every time I use it I'm just in disbelief of its creaminess. Not only is it extraordinarily creamy but it stays put all day. It so dark and smudge-able. I mean, just thinking about it makes me want to go smoke my eyes out right now. It's like black butter on a stick but desirable. If that makes sense? If not, let me make this clear for you all... You, your family, your friends and every girl on earth needs this liner!

Mascara

Highend: Too Faced Better than Sex $23

 Ok, I'm going to do mascara a little different. I pretty much get the same look from these two mascaras but the only thing that is different is the price. Both mascaras are pitch black, voluminous, lengthening, long wearing, clump resistant, flake free and transfer free. With this kind of mascara I don't even need false eyelashes.

Drugstore: Loreal Voluminous Carbon Black $7.99

Read the paragraph above for information on both the Better Than Sex mascara and Carbon black.

Brow Pencil

Highend: Anastasia Brow Wiz $21

 Anastasia has the best colors in the brow pencil world. They look realistic and they're easy to move across the eyebrow. They'll stay in place all day and keep you in the brow game. It's easy to use to shape your eyebrows and the tip is the perfect size.

Brow product

Highend: Anastasia Brow Pomade $18

This is for the girls who don't have much eyebrow hair. It's the best product out there to fill in your brows without disappearing later in the day. Anastasia has many shades to choose from and the price is affordable. It's creamy, yet easy to use. It lasts forever and applies without having a tug-a-war. All you need is a good angled brush and you and your brows are ready to take on the world.

*Drugstore: NYX Tame & Frame Brow Pomade $6.99

This stuff is a lot like the Anastasia Brow Pomade, not exactly the same but it gets the job done just as good. It's pigmented, long lasting and the shade options are pretty decent. I say save your money and buy this one instead. It's just a lot cheaper but still good. 

Ok, that's it for this post. Be sure to stay tuned for tomorrows post, which is my favorite lip products. Click here to read my 2015 Beauty Favorites for my face! 

Don't forget to tell me what your favorite eye products are for 2015 in the comments below. It's always nice to hear your favorites as well. I like to try new makeup too! (obviously, haha)

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2015 Beauty Favorites | Face

2015 flew by as fast as a jet this year! In the beauty world, I would say it was a successful and fun year. Many trends were worshiped and practiced. And Brands released amazing products. But I have to say my favorite thing about 2015 (beauty wise) are the new holy grail products I found. Going through last years list made me realize just how much my favorites have changed. I still love all of the products I mentioned in last years favorites but this years products are the light of my day.

All of the new favorites have a (*) beside the category it's In. If you're wanting to check out last years list it will be right here.  If you're interested in purchasing a product, click on the price beside the name. They are not affiliate links. 

Primer

Highend: Stila One Step Step Correct Trip Swirl Helix Primer $36

The first thing I notice when I apply this primer is how powerful the green correcting pigment is. When I'm having a really bad breakout I apply this primer and it helps calm down the redness before my foundation is applied. The next thing I notice is the extended wear of my foundation. I have a problem with my foundation breaking up all over my cheeks and chin. However, when I wear this primer my foundation doesn't budge all day long. This primer is seriously a miracle worker. The only thing I don't like is the price of it. So I don't use it all the time. 

*Drugstore: Maybelline Master Prime Blur + Redness Control $9.99

I love this primer because it prepares my skin for foundation but also helps neutralize redness from my acne. It's not as good as the Stila primer but it's good enough for day-to-day makeup.  I don't find it helpful for oil control though! 

Foundation

Highend: Becca Cosmetics Ultimate Coverage Complexion Creme $44

For so long I was on the hunt for the perfect foundation. When I saw this foundation on Ultas website, I was instantly intrigued. I'm so happy that I purchased it. This foundation provides a seamless full coverage finish. It lasts all day and does not break me out. Fortunately, i don't get oily in my T-zone, unfortunately, it can cling to some dry patches. To fix that problem, just add some liquid luminizer to the foundation and viola, it's perfect for dry skin as well. I just can't get enough of this foundation. Plus, the packaging is so sleek! 

*Drugstore: Loreal True Match Super Blendable Makeup $9.99

This foundation is nice for combo skin. It's neither oily or dewy. The finish is natural and lasts all day if set with a powder. Just like the name states, it's super blendable as well.  Plus, the color range is awesome. I really love it.

BB cream

Drugstore: Maybelline Dream Pure with acne treatment $8.99

At first I hated this BB cream. I tried it for a week and didn't notice any difference in my skin.. Then after I stopped using it, I started to break out really bad. Why? This BB cream actually did help my skin. It helps reduce the amount of acne I have and provides a light to medium coverage while I wear it. The only thing I don't like is how it tends to stick to my dry acne. You definitely need to moisturize before hand. Other than that, it's a great drugstore BB cream. I especially think people with oily skin will love it. It would even be perfect for men who have problems with acne and they would benefit from the coverage (due to the lack of self confidence). 

Undereye concealer

Highend: MAC Cosmetics Pro Longwear concealer $21

I had a hard time choosing between Mac's pro Longwear concealer and Nars radiant concealer. The reason I chose Mac's is becuase it works great as an eye primer too. If your not worried about that, both concealers are high coverage, creamy, crease-resistant, Blendable and dependable. If price helps you choose, then go with The pro Longwear. It's only $21 and has a pump, which is also great for preventing bacteria growth. Plus, it doubles as a facial concealer. 

Drugstore: Maybelline Isntant Age Rewind concealer $8.99

There are a lot of gems in the drugstore but nothing is as good as Maybelline's Instant Age Rewind concealer. It's  coverage packs a huge punch and the creaminess is divine. My under eyes instantly look brightened and I love the awakening appearance it creates. It's also crease-resistant, lasts all day and the price is a steal. You seriously need to try this concealer. I promise you won't regret it.

Facial concealer

Drugstore: Hard Candy Glamoflauge $6

Hard Candy's concealer is often raved about. Being only six dollars and having full coverage, it's bound to stand out in the drugstore. I personally don't think it provides "full coverage" but I do think it provides the best coverage from the drugstore. I can still achieve a full coverage look if I wear a full coverage foundation but then things tend to look a wee bit cake-y. I suggest getting this concealer if you're okay with a Med-full coverage. However, if you want ultimate coverage, go to Ulta or Sephora and get yourself a high-end concealer. If you're on a budget, than this is your best bet from the drugstore. Worn with a natural looking foundation, it looks nice and lasts all day. It doesn't break me out or crease into my fine lines. Overall, it's a spectacular concealer for the price. 

Translucent powder

Highend: Tarte Smooth Operator Clay translucent powder $33

This powder is the best powder I have found to diffuse the appearance of my imperfections. That alone is the reason why it's my favorite translucent powder so far! It gives me such a silky appearance and I can't get enough of it.  

*Drugstore: Coty Airspun Powder in Translucent Extra Coverage$5.97

 I really love this foundation for its multipurpose properties. It's great for setting foundation, concealing and baking. I do find it helpful for oil control  but at the same time it's not drying. I also really love the price point at just $5!

Powder foundation

*Highend: Dermablend Instense Powder Camo $31

Anyone who has problematic skin needs this powder foundation. It's so light but provides FULL coverage. I have terrible acne but this powder is enough on its own to tackle the redness from my flare ups. I'm in love with it and I don't see it going anywhere. From what I can tell, it's average when it comes to oil control.

Drugstore: Rimmel Stay Matte pressed powder $4.99

I'm sure by now you have all heard of this powder foundation. It's sets makeup amazingly, keeps oil at bay and it doesn't look cake-y. 

Bronzer

*Highend: Too Faced Chocolate Solie Matte Bronzer $30

No, I don't love this bronzer because it smells like cocoa (although that certainly doesn't hurt), I love it for its blend-ability, color, staying power and texture. It's one of the best out there!

*Drugstore: Physicians Formula City Glow Daily Defense Bronzer in New York $7.49

The packaging is actually what  sucked me into buying this product. I thought I would prefer the Paris version more but the New York bronzer has a better tone to it. They both blend beautifully but I love how natural and non-orangey this bronzer is. Really, most of the bronzers from Physicians Formula are great. Just close your eyes and take a pick.

Blush

*Highend: The Balm Instain Blush line $22

The Instain blushes are very affordable but perform like champs. They last all day, hence the name, they blend easily and the packaging is killer. I love them and I look forward to the day when I own all of the shades.

*Drugstore: Milani Comsetics Rose Blush in Romantic Rose $8.99

When I first got the Rose blush by Milani I was really disappointed. It swatched chalky and felt dry but it performs like a whole other product on my cheeks. It's smooth and blendable. The staying power is really good, too. And I'll admit it, the design is what helps it stay at the top of my favorites list. It's so darn cute!

Highlighter 

*Highend: Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector in Champagne Pop (LE)  $38/ The Balm Marry Loumanizer $24

My favorite highlighter of 2015 is Becca's Champagne Pop but it's limited edition. It's still available but I prefer giving the spotlight to products that are permanent, like the Mary-Lou manizer by The Balm. It's a pale champagne highlight with gold tones. It can be Intense but not overwhelming. The glow is more of a high sheen rather than  a glittery finish. It's a great pick for your first highlighter!

*Drugstore: Wet N Wild Color Icon Bronzer in Reserve Your Cabana $3.99

Another affordable but perfect product from Wet N Wild! I picked this up early in December and I instantly fell in love. It's so natural but beautiful on my texturized skin. I use it almost every time I do my makeup.

Setting spray

Highend: Mac Prep & Prime Fix+ $22

Guys, the hype is true. There are days when I put on way too much concealer and what comes to the rescue? That's right, Mac Fix+. It takes away the powdery look and leaves a beautiful canvas after a light spritz. The only thing it doesn't do is prolong the wear of my makeup. But that's ok, I have primer for that. 

Drugstore: NYX Dewy setting Spray $7.99

Nyx setting spray is pretty much the same thing as Mac Fix+. However, it doesn't take away the cake-y appearance quite as good but it does prolong the wear of my makeup. I use it daily and save the expensive one for parties, holidays, ect. 

Alrighty, that's it for my "face" beauty favorites of 2015. Of course I have many more products I love but I love the products I mentioned above the most. 

Be sure to come back to see my picks for the eyes and lips! Or you can follow me on a social media website of your choice. Just click on the social media tab at the top of my website and bam you'll find my info there. 

Don't forget to leave your favorites in the comments below, loves! 

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