ShannonLeiMUA

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[shannonleimua]

L’OCCITANE SHEA CLEANSING OIL

My skincare obsession recently has been cleansers and makeup removers. So after finishing my bottle of my holy grail DHC Deep Cleansing Oil, I’ve been on the hunt for another that could perform similarly for a lower price. Did this one from L’Occitane make the cut?..

L’Occitanne Shea Cleansing Oil - $22, 6.7 oz (sephora.com)

Claims from sephora.com: “The Shea Cleansing Oil has a silky texture that helps to effectively remove impurities and makeup—even waterproof. Infused with five percent nourishing shea oil, this cleanser transforms into a soft emulsion when it comes into contact with water, helping to preserve the skin's natural hydration. Great for all skin types, this oil leaves skin clean, comfortable, fresh, and radiant.”

Plain and simple, this does exactly what it’s supposed to and is excellent for removing makeup for oily, acne-prone skin like myself. I never broke out from this product. This lasted me a good three months, a good thing being that it expires three months after first use. 

The texture of this compared to my holy grail DHC Deep Cleansing Oil (WHYYY have I never written a review to link to?!) is a tiny bit heavier, so if that’s your cup of tea this is your pick. I would most compare its texture to The Body Shop Camomile Silky Cleansing Oil. I very much prefer the slip and easiness of the DHC over the L’Occitane, but again, it’s just a matter of preference and does not say anything about its performance. 

The scent of this is extremely light and nothing too fragranced as you may have guess from the ingredients, which by the way is pretty short - just how I like it. 

For $22 and 6.7 oz, L’Occitane has impressed me! I do need to get my hands on another DHC oil, though. I miss it!

Have you tried this oil? xo

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NYX HIGHLIGHT & CONTOUR PRO PALETTE

While contouring and highlighting has been all the rage lately, I couldn’t seem to justify buying any palette that would give me the same results as other products in my collection and MUA kit (aka my beloved Kevyn Aucoin Sculpting Powder and the Balm Mary Lou Manizer, to name a couple). But who could pass up on such a good deal - EIGHT powders for setting, highlighting, AND contouring? Yeah, I knew I couldn’t..

NYX Highlight & Contour Pro Palette - $25, 0.09 oz (nyxcosmetics.com)

Claims from nyxcosmetics.com: “Define your features like a pro with our refillable highlight and contour palette! Each set includes eight customizable highlighting and contouring shades perfect for emphasizing your favorite features.”

Shades from left to right, top to bottom: Ice Queen, Soft Light, Cream, Nectar, Tan, Toffee, Sculpt, Hollow

Ice Queen, Soft Light, Cream, Nectar

Tan, Toffee, Sculpt, Hollow

I used Nectar as a highlight on my cheekbones and Toffee as my contour.

Plain and simple, if you are a makeup artist, freelance or professional, or someone who just wants a palette like this, I would urge you to at least try this out first before splurging on something more expensive but with less shades to choose from. Granted I have not used this on clients yet but just by the looks of it, I can predict how easy it will be to match to most skin tones.

The quality of these shadows are not buttery, BUT they are silky soft, finely milled, and decently pigmented with just one swatch. The longevity of the shadows are standard without a setting spray. Don’t expect extra long wear with these as they don’t claim to do that. Also, I would recommend to slowly blend these powders out and build them up because the outcome is much better. 

The packaging is perfect for travel and I love that they are refillable - if you prefer to take out pans to take with you in a z-palette or any palette like such, you have the option to! Honestly, even though these powders have less product than most palettes like this, who REALLY needs so much product for contours and highlighters?

Have you tried this palette? What are your thoughts? xo

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[shannonleimua]

New MAC Matte Lipsticks in Antique Velvet, Persistence, & Whirl

MAC has released new matte lipsticks as part of their Matte Lip Collection and I have a few to share with you! I am definitely getting more used to wearing matte lipsticks nowadays as I’ve always been a moisturizing lippie type of girl. I’ve chosen two everyday type shades and one that could be worn as a night out lip for those bold occasions..

Left to right: Antiqued Velvet, Persistence, Whirl

Antique Velvet is a neutral dark plummy brown. At a glance it may look like just a dark brown but if you look closely it’s really the plum underneath it that gives more depth. 

Persistence is a warm peachy rose. It is perfect for olive skin like mine as my natural lips have a more brown, peachy tone. 

Whirl is a browny rose, taken after their famous lip liner in the same shade. I’ve been sporting this one almost every day since I got it. 

Have you tried these? What are your favorites from the new collection? xo

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CLINIQUE BEYOND PERFECTING FOUNDATION + CONCEALER

Although I already have a list of favorite foundations for oily, acne-prone skin, I couldn’t help but be attracted to this one from Clinique. Beyond perfecting? Foundation AND concealer?! I refused to believe these claims unless I personally tried it (obviously..), so after more than a week of testing this in cold and hot weather, here are my thoughts..

Clinique Beyond Perfecting Foundation + Concealer in 08 Golden Neutral - $27, 1 oz (sephora.com)

From sephora.com, the claims of this foundation state: “This lightweight, moisturizing foundation and concealer provides full coverage without clogging pores. This 12-hour wear, breathable formula is ideal for very dry to combination oily skin types, its special polymer formula forms a flexible film that moves with the skin for lasting wear, and it dries slowly for easy blending. Get lasting coverage and give skin a perfected look that stays put, even through sweat and humidity. “

This foundation is packaged in a sleek, glass bottle with a twist off cap attached to a large lipgloss-like wand for scooping out product. Off the bat, I’m already not a fan of the packaging because of sanitary reasons. I understand that the wand could be used for spot concealing, but if the product does that on its own, I don’t see the need for something so unsanitary as this. 

Going off of the claims, I agree and disagree with several things. It’s lightweight, but not moisturizing. I would not recommend this to people with dry skin because of how fast it dries and feels after it sets on the skin. Which brings me to disagree with the claim that it dries slowly for easy blending. I used this with a brush and with a beauty sponge, both of which gave the same outcome. With liquid foundations, I usually get at least a minute before it completely sets on my skin, whereas with this foundation, I could feel it setting within maybe 30 seconds.

As far as coverage, I do agree with the claims that it is full coverage, but not heavy coverage. I did have to go over my spots with several layers to completely cover them, which was not to my advantage since I was expecting complete coverage with this. 

As for longevity, I wish I took pictures of how this performed because this foundation separates after several hours. If you sweat at all with this foundation on, it will mix with oil and separate in patches on your face - at least that’s what I experienced. Six hours in, my face was not looking even at all, something I rarely experience with foundations. BUT with that said, my spots were still concealed by the end of the day. I would only recommend wearing this with a setting powder and maybe even a primer if you have one you love.

My final thoughts? I returned it, to be honest. Clinique... I had high hopes for you, but this foundation was not the love I’d hoped it’d be. 

Have you tried this foundation? xo

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SMASHBOX STUDIO SKIN 15 HR WEAR HYDRATING FOUNDATION

After hearing rave after rave about this foundation from a few of my favorite bloggers, I figured I'd give it a go while I had my VIB discount last month. If you have oily skin like me, you may need to read up on this review...

Smashbox Studio Skin 15 Hour Wear Hydrating Foundation in 2.3 - $42, 1 oz (sephora.com)

For new readers who aren't familiar with my skin, I have oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. My MAC foundation shade, for reference, is NC40, and I have extremely yellow undertones that make finding the perfect foundation shade match a pain to find.

...This foundation totally outperformed itself because not only does it match my skintone perfectly, it is extremely longwearing and probably the most transfer resistant foundation that I've tried. The only downside (for those who are acne-prone like me) is that it isn't full coverage, but a reliable medium coverage that is still buildable - I still am able to completely cover my hyperpigmentation spots when I layer this in those areas. 

It dries and sets to a skin-like finish, which I actually prefer over a totally matte finish. The staying power is phenomenal and I actually find that I don't need to powder with this foundation for more staying power. That's saying a lot.

I like to apply it with a synthetic buffing brush (it's actually the only way I've tried applying it and I love it) which I think is perfect to get the most out of this foundation. I then blend and pat certain areas with my fingers to get an even better skin-like finish. 

You can view me wearing this foundation in one of my latest videos, here:

I can't wait to use this during the summer and really see how well it performs in more humid weather.

Do let me know if you pick this up - I'd love to know how it works for you!

Have you tried this foundation? x

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[shannonleimua]

My Top Five Favorite MAC Lipsticks

Hello, everyone! Finally back from my hiatus and I'm so excited to be blogging again. It's the middle of winter break for me (I start school again on the 12th) and as I've been playing with makeup more often I've also rediscovered and found some new favorites along the way. Here are my top five MAC lipsticks that I refuse to leave my collection without..

I tried to incorporate an array of finishes as well as colors ranging from light to dark. Luckily, that wasn't hard for me! These five are the ones I would most likely reach for if I'm in a pinch. I swear these five were made for me!

From left to right (above): Taupe, Velvet Teddy, Brave, Plumful, Party Line

Velvet Teddy (Matte) is the perfect nude for my skin tone. It's nude but doesn't wash me out and makes any face look pulled together. 

Brave (Satin) is the perfect everyday pink. It isn't too vibrant, light, or cool toned. It's perfect with heavy eye makeup if you don't want a nude lip.

Plumful (Luster) is a sheer, but buildable plum-pink. Easily my favorite finish because of how comfortable and easy it is to wear, and the color works for both day and night.

Taupe (Matte) is a tan brown with a hint of rose. I like to think of this as my 90s lipstick. A bit different than your normal everyday lipstick but it grew on me!

Party Line (Cremesheen) is a deep plummy red. This red is probably my favorite to wear out of any in my collection! It's so sophisticated and I love its depth. I also love how you don't need a mirror to apply this one - it's so comfy and easy to touch up with.

I hope you found this helpful! What MAC lipsticks do you think I would love? What are your favorites?

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[shannonleimua]

FOTD // 08.20.14

It's been a while since my last FOTD... a loooong while. Here's a few standouts that I've been wearing lately. Fresh, bright, and easy is what I've been going for...

Face: Marc Jacobs Genius Gel Foundation (post here), NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Ginger (post here), Bobbi Brown Corrector In Light to Med Peach, Soap & Glory One Heck of a Blot

Cheeks: Milani Berry Amore blush (yes, that's all I'm wearing!)

Eyes: Kiko Long Lasting Stick Eyeshadow in 06 Golden Brown (post here), Benefit They're Real Mascara

Lips: YSL Volupte Sheer Candy #12 Tasty Raspberry (pictured above)

Just a quick review on the above YSL lippie... it. is. love. A sheer, moisturizing baby pink with subtle shimmer. It goes everywhere with me now.

What have you been loving lately? Hope you're all well! x

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[shannonleimua]

MDSOLARSCIENCES MINERAL CREME BROAD SPECTRUM SUNSCREENS

Ladies and gents, I may have found a new holy grail. When a product is just THAT good, it's hard to say it can't be. Summer may be coming to an end but sunscreen should always be a part of everyone's daily routine no matter how bright it is outside - amen? With that said, may I introduce you to the MDSOLARSCIENCES Mineral Creme Sunscreens..

MDSOLARSCIENCES Mineral Creme Broad Spectrum SPF 50 (Pink tube) - $30, 1.7 oz (sephora.com)

Sephora claims: "This lightweight, noncomedogenic SPF 50 UVA/UVB formula protects the skin against sun damage. Formulated with a proprietary blend of ProVention-R™ antioxidants, which provide additional preventative and reparative skin benefits, the silky-smooth, luxurious lotion blends quickly and easily, delivering a moisturizing, matte finish that helps even skintone."

What caught my attention when I saw this in-store at Sephora was 1) it is relatively affordable compared to other high end sunscreens, 2) the high zinc oxide content, and 3) NO OXYBENZONE (or other harsh chemicals).

If you've been a reader for a while now, you know how obsessed I am with proper sunscreen use. The things I look for most in a sunscreen are: it has to be mineral-based (they work immediately after applied and cause less risk of being absorbed into the bloodstream), has to have zinc oxide as its main ingredient (17% in this one, yes please!) for calming acne-prone skin, feels nice and light, and as mentioned above, no oxybenzone, a harmful ingredient that the EWG is actively speaking out against and more companies are listening to. It basically acts as estrogen in the body and is especially harmful to women. 

Anyway, this sunscreen does exactly what I expected it to. Although it's a cream, it doesn't feel heavy at all and actually feels very calming to apply. There is no scent to either of these and also no blueish tint that other mineral sunscreens tend to give. You have to try it yourself. The silky-smooth texture feels amazing. It's become my favorite part of my daily skincare regime!

MDSOLARSCEINCES Mineral Tinted Creme Broad Spectrum SPF 30 (Orange tube) - $32, 1.7 oz (sephora.com)

Sephora claims: "This naturally light, silky-smooth SPF 30 UVA/UVB mineral tint blends with most skin types and colors, delivering an even skintone and a flawless, natural finish while protecting from the sun’s harmful rays. It is formulated to not clog pores and to be water resistant for up to 80 minutes. The infusion of ProVention-R™, a powerful antioxidant complex, adds antiaging benefits."

I picked this as a free sample from one of my recent online Sephora orders because I was nearly out of my former sunscreen I was using. After using this up, I loved it so much that I was about to buy this one until I found the SPF 50 non-tinted version above which was $2 cheaper. 

As far as its overall performance as a tinted sunscreen, I don't think it's worth it. It gives virtually no coverage and did minimal effort to even out my skintone. You'd be better off using a powder foundation for more coverage.

Other than that, this would be the same exact product as its SPF 50 non-tinted version. I mean, come on, they even have the SAME exact ingredients...

Ingredients in BOTH sunscreens (from Sephora.com): 

-Titanium Dioxide 1.5%: Sunscreen.  -Zinc Oxide 17%: Sunscreen.  -ProVention-R™ Complex (Green Tea Extract, Cranberry Fruit Extract, and Pomegranate Extract): A skin-protecting antioxident blend safe for acne and rosacea-prone skin.  -Vitamin C: Helps brighten and repair signs of photo aging.  Dimethicone, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glyceryl Isostearate, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Silica, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Polysilicone-15, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Iron, Oxides, PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Vaccinuium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract, Punica Granatum (Pomagranate) Extract

View the brand's whole range of products available at Sephora here.

Have you tried these sunscreens? I'd love to know your thoughts!

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[shannonleimua]

UK/US BEAUTY SWAP WITH HDOTXO

Nursing classes have been taking up all my time lately but that doesn't mean I haven't been testing out new products! In the midst of all the craziness, I was able to do a beauty product exchange/swap with my new lovely blogger friend Hana. I was absolutely overwhelmed when I opened the box  few weeks ago! Here's what she gifted me!

Just to name them off...

Kiko Cosmetics Long Lasting Stick Eyeshadows in 05 & 06 // Bourjois Rouge Edition Velvets in Pink Pong, Hot Pepper & Grand Cru // Indeed Labs Hydrauron Moisture Jelly (skincare junkies I hear your squealing) // GOSH Cosmetics Velvet Touch Lipstick in Shocking Coral // Collection Volume Sensation Lipstick in Forever Heather // MUA Academy Undress Your Skin Shimmer Highlighter // Soap & Glory One Heck of a Blot Powder // Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer // Sleek i-Divine Vintage Romance Palette

She even added some old school UK sweets - ahh!

Kiko Long Lasting Stick Eyeshadows in 05 and 06 - First impressions: WOWZA. Definitely a comparable dupe for the Laura Mercier Caviar Sticks as these perform and feel quite identical! Bulletproof gorgeous colors - I'm in love.

Bourjois Rouge Edition Velvets in Pink Pong, Hot Pepper, and Grand Cru - First impressions: Velvety matte finish once dried, smooth  and very opaque. I have yet to actually test these on my lips (I know, why haven't I yet?!?) but I will report back! Although I'm sure many of you are already familiar with these, ha!

GOSH Velvet Touch Lipstick in Shocking Coral & Collection 2000 Forever Heather lipstick - First impressions: It's like Hana knew what I was missing in my collection! Shocking Coral is an absolutely breathtaking color and feels so smooth and light on the lips yet gives great color payoff. I'm obsessed! Forever Heather is a frosted 'my lips but better' shade. Not usually into frosted lipsticks, but this one looks like it just gives a nice shine which I actually like.

I've already been testing out the face products, so expect some posts featuring them in the future. Just a heads up... the Hydraluron Moisture Jelly is getting some serious LOVE right now.

Take a look at what I got Hana over on her blog! I had so much fun with this swap and I'm so thankful for everything she gave me :)

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[shannonleimua]

Vance Creek Viaduct Bridge (#thatnwbridge)

Because sometimes all you need is to take a step back from life and enjoy what's right in your backyard..

This post is long overdue, but if you follow my Instagram you've probably seen me post about my trip to Shelton, WA with a few of my good friends. I've been meaning to visit the Vance Creek viaduct bridge (or High Steel Bridge, as it's formally known) so several weeks ago we made that happen!

If you GPS directions to the bridge, it will take you to a 'no trespassing' trail but you want to make sure that you keep going on NF-23 which will take you to a small parking lot to the left of the road.

The start of the trail to the bridge is marked by a small hill of dirt that blocks cars from entering, so park there and start walking! The trail wasn't bad at all - you'll be at the bridge in less than 15 minutes!

You do want to be sure to wear shoes that you don't mind getting dirty, obviously ^

Be forewarned - you may feel a bit queasy taking those first few steps! But the trick for us was to walk on the sides, not the middle. The middle had no wood underneath so you could easily see what's below you.

Times like these I couldn't help but take lots of pictures! Just remember to take it all in for as long as you can. Trust me, it's so fulfilling.

Where to next?!

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[shannonleimua]

SONIA KASHUK LIMITED EDITION 15TH ANNIVERSARY 15PC BRUSH SET

After hearing all the craze about this brush set, I (shockingly) managed to find the last one in-stock at my local Target. Sonia Kashuk brushes aren't the cheapest in the drugstore but I have to admit, her quality is top-notch and incomparable. You may want to get your wallet ready after reading this post..

This collection features a powder brush, blusher brush, duo fiber buffing brush, synthetic angled multipurpose brush, contour brush, foundation brush, concealer brush, blending brush, crease brush, small eye shadow brush, fluffy eye shadow brush, precision pencil brush, synthetic angled liner brush, smudge brush and spoolie.

You're getting an assortment 15 synthetic AND natural haired brushes, which may I add, the way she crafted all of them is genius. There isn't one brush that I would trade for another. In fact, a lot of these brushes are one-of-a-kind to my collection as far as design and function. 

I've been a huge fan of her brushes for years now although I don't own that many, but I'm excited to add these to the bunch! Her brushes have never shed, bled, or broke on me so I completely trust that these brushes won't disappoint. And may I add that they feel AMAZING on the skin. 

My only gripe is that I wish the handles had more weight to them as it helps more with control. 

You can purchase this in-store at Target for $39.99. You might want to call your local store for availability before going just in case they sell out!

Have you purchased this? I'd love to know your thoughts :)

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[shannonleimua]

NEW 2014 RIMMEL MOISTURE RENEW LIPSTICKS

Aaaand they've landed! Rimmel knocks it out of the park yet again with a newly repackaged and reformulated version of one of my personal favorite drugstore lipstick ranges, which finally is not just exclusive to the UK. If you're unfamiliar, let me introduce you..

Rimmel Moisture Renew Lipsticks in Notting Hill Nude & As You Want Victoria - $5-$7 at drugstores

I've been waiting patiently for these to arrive in the US so of course I had to snag a few that I've been eyeing on certain blogs for some time now. 

Rimmel completely redesigned these lippies (aside from the original purple colored tubes) into a more sleek and modern tube that features a see-through cap with "Rimmel" embossed on the side and silver, much longer metal holder. 

Notting Hill Nude (which I've heard is a dupe for Tom Ford's Spanish Pink) is a new shade that translates on the lips as a sheer browny-pink. I think this color would suit many skintones given its sheerness and overall neutral undertone.

As You Want Victoria is an old shade (which I actually mistook as new, darn it) that translates as a vibrant magenta with a red undertone. This one is completely opposite of the aformentioned - bold and completely opaque in one swipe. Serious, I practically painted this on my lips. I may have found a new favorite.

As for the formula of both of these lippies, they're in agreement in moisture level and feel on the lips. Still just as moisturizing and lightweight, but dare I say they feel even lighter than before? I think so. 

Please do check out the whole range. I've got my eyes set on a few more, actually...

Have you tried any of the new lipsticks? Any recommendations?

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[shannonleimua]

Catch Up: 5 New Videos!

If you're subscribed to my beauty channel you'd know I've been uploading like a maniac lately, but if not, here are my new videos you missed! Thanks for watching!

Feel free to leave your channel URL as well and I'll check it out! :) xx

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[shannonleimua]

MY TOP 5 PINK LIPPIES

Summer calls for complexion perk-ups and longwearing brights for all-day (or night) outings. Here are my absolute must haves that fit the bill - you kind of need a few if you've never heard or tried them yet..

Maybelline Color Sensational High Shine Lip Gloss in Fuschia Sparks (discontinued shade) - $5.50 (Walmart)

This may not be the most pigmented gloss out there, but the formula is phenomenal and this shade is perfect for me. Why a sheer pink? It's pretty, brings just a slight brightness to my complexion and best of all, it's moisturizing. I hate pink lipsticks unless they're super moisturizing, so this is perfect. Unfortunately I just found out this shade is discontinued, but definitely try a pink from this range if you want to try these glosses out.

Urban Decay Super Saturated High Gloss Lip Color in Crush - $20 (sephora)

This lipstick started my love for bright pinks. This color, to me, is a hot pink with a slight fuschia undertone. If there is a lip range that I think should get more love, it would be these. The formula is smooth and nearly opaque, VERY moisturizing given its high-gloss shine (which is more noticeable as you build the color more) and the color range is to die for although there aren't many. The only downfall is having to sharpen them.

Make Up For Ever Rouge Artist Intense Lipstick in #36 - $20 (sephora)

The cooler, blue-based cousin of the above UD lippie. It's described as a satin fuschia although I'd add that it's almost leaning neon. Same as the above UD lipstick, this offers intense color in one stroke, glides on smoothly and wears very long. The only difference is it's a satin finish and a tad brighter. Definitely one of a kind!

Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Lovesick - $6.48 (Walmart)

Who doesn't love these balm stains? Undoubtedly the best "balm crayons" in the drugstore with added longwear abilites and a refreshing menthol sensation. This shade in Lovesick is lovely for days when I want a deeper pink that's easy to just throw on and go. 

Urban Decay Revolution Lipstick in Catfight - $22 (Sephora)

Hands down my favorite lipstick range ever. Catfight is a cool bright pink with a red undertone, making this my go-to pink-red as I like to call it. I did a post on this lipstick here which you can read for more pictures and thoughts!

What are your favorite pinks? What 'top 5' lippies would you like to see next?

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[shannonleimua]

#TBT: Remember These?

If you've been a part of the beauty community for a long time, you'll probably enjoy this post. We all have those well-loved products that take us back to our pre-hoarding days. Let's take a look at some old favorites of mine (and I'm sure a lot of you, too!) and reminisce on them in all their glory..

Neutrogena Healthy Skin Foundation in Natural Beige - $12.77 (Walmart)

Circa 2011 was when I fell in love with this foundation. I just bought a fresh new bottle not too long ago after remembering how well it performs on me come winter time. Perfect for moisture in the colder months with an added SPF 20 benefit. 

Rimmel Lasting Finish Blush in Autumn Catwalk - $4.39 (amazon.com)

I used to be obsessed with this blush when it first hit the stores. You can use it as a light highlighter or swirl the colors together for a perky pink cheek. Sadly, this is discontinued, but if you want to try it, it isn't too expensive on Amazon! A nice alternative would be one of my all time favorite blushes - Physicians Formula Happy Booster blush in Natural.

Essence Gel Eyeliner in Midnight in Paris - $3.99 (Ulta)

Remember when this was priced WAY cheaper?! I swear they bumped up the price a dollar or two since I bought this, but nonetheless it's still one of the best gel liners I've ever tried. If you're just starting with gel liner, look to this one. Super black, super creamy and it's fool proof.

L'Oreal Infallible Lip Gloss in Coral Sands - $8.47 (Walmart)

Ahh, my high school go-to lip product! I went through tubes of this specific shade and I still love it to this day. It's a slightly frosty peachy pink that isn't too sticky and has a long wear time for a lip gloss. 

Revlon Illuminance Creme Eyeshadow in Not Just Nudes - $4.94 (Walmart)

These creme shadows were all the hype back around 2010-2011 if I recall correctly. I love this for lazy summer days when I want something easy to apply and won't budge in the water if I'm swimming. This one is my favorite for its range of neutrals. 

What are your favorite #TBT products?

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[shannonleimua]

NEW L'OREAL GLOSSY BALM CRAYONS

A recent trip to Fred Meyer left me leaving with L'Oreal's latest lip product launch. I thought I was over the whole color balm craze but I couldn't help myself to try just one more (come on, now). The shade specifically in Innocent Coral was calling my name for this summer..

L'Oreal Glossy Balm Crayon in Innocent Coral - $7.99, 0.09 oz (Fred Meyer and select Bed, Bath & Beyond stores)

L'Oreal has finally jumped on the twist-up color balm crayon bandwagon, and I don't think these are limited edition either (as far as the display says). 

The only claims that the display had was that it's ultra glossy and gives you a playful pout. I'm assuming "playful" comes from the color selection because they are more relatively bright colors in the collection. 

This applies smooth, comfortable and pigmented, although nothing intense at all. Unfortunately, I don't feel that they're "ultra glossy" - they actually feel and look like a regular moisturizing lipstick when applied. The wear time is relatively normal for a color balm which doesn't claim to have staining abilities - about 3 hours until it fades (which it fades very evenly!).

It moisturizes extremely well and doesn't leave my lips feeling dry even after the color fades for the most part. 

Although I am smitten with this color I bought, I still prefer my Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stains over this because the formula is by far better - more longwearing, nourishing, and comfortable. However if there is a color that L'Oreal has that Revlon doesn't, I would recommend these, but just keep in mind that they aren't as longwearing. 

Have you tried these glossy balms yet?

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[shannonleimua]

HAND CREAMS FOR STARTERS

Who says your hands don't need extra TLC, too? Hand cream has become an essential in my everyday beauty stash and handbag. Wrinkly hands at an early age does not sound appealing to me so I've been testing out a number of hand creams for the past several months - my hands have never felt so happy. Here's the lowdown..

EOS Cucumber Hand Lotion - $1.99, 1.5 oz (ulta.com)

Probably my oldest out of the bunch, I've been using this hand lotion since last year. A lightweight, non-greasy lotion perfect for daytime and as a quick fix for really light moisture. The cucumber scent is also a perfect daytime pick-me-up.

Nature Republic Hand & Nature Lilac Hand Cream - $5.76, 1 oz (en.koreadepart.com)

I picked this up on my trip to Hawaii at a Nature Republic store for BOGO free! I love this type of packaging as it looks more expensive than it really is. I love this one for daytime as well - non-greasy, relatively light and leaves my hands feeling soft. They have a wide array of lovely scents at the store which made it hard to choose only two!

The Body Shop Mini Hemp Hand Protector - $10, 1 oz (thebodyshop-usa.com)

My favorite of them all. Nothing compares to how nourished and soft this makes my hands feel. This one is little thick and does leave behind a slight film on your hands but that's why I love it - it isn't greasy nor does it smell the most pleasant but if you want baby smooth, nourished hands, look this way. 

The Body Shop Vitamin E Hand & Nail Treatment  - $16, 2.5 oz (thebodyshop-usa.com)

This one is also a lotion consistency and performs much like the EOS one. It sinks in right away, is very light and is nice for light moisture. I don't know if it's much of a "treatment" - I'd expect more nourishment from it - but it's nice as a refreshing, light lotion.

Jean Pierre Cosmetics Moisturizing Hand Cream - $3.99, 3.4 oz (amazon.com)

I found this one at a TJ Maxx for around the same price, and what attracted me to this was the avocado oil and green tea extracts in it. The consistency is more of a thick lotion than a cream. It's not as light as a lotion and provides a bit more moisture. It feels very refreshing and leaves my hands relatively smooth. 

Weleda Skin Food - $13.59, 2.5 oz (amazon.com)

An amazing multi-use product that I use not only as a hand cream but also as a body moisturizer and (sometimes) lip balm! It's an extremely thick, herbal-scented cream that you really have to work between your hands before applying anywhere else. This is amazing for extremely dry skin and an essential if I'm traveling.

Burt's Bees Almond Milk Beeswax Hand Creme - $8.99, 2 oz (target.com)

I love this one as my night-time hand cream. Similar to the Skin Food, it's a very thick cream that requires some work to be absorbed. A little goes a long way with this - it leaves behind a nice film of oil and leaves my hands feeling amazing after it sinks in. For baby-smooth hands in the morning I love using extra before I sleep. 

What are your favorite hand creams? Any recommendations would be appreciated! :)

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