Redding Your Lips

I love wearing this look. Red lips are a quick classic look that is actually really easy to pull off. Just a swipe of a neutral eyeshadow like MAC All That Glitters and Soft Brown, a few coats of extra black mascara and the lightest hint of NARS Orgasm Blush and you have a look that is simple and Classic. There are a couple of things to keep in mind when wearing red lips.


#1 Color. There are many types of reds. There are reds that have a more orange tone, true reds, blue- reds, and reds that have a warmer hue to them. You really have to actually TRY them on your lips and experiment with the colors to find what looks great on you.


#2 Finishes. For a really classic look, I wear a red lipstick with a little shine to it like MAC Red (satin finish/ bluish-red tone.) When I want to go for a more modern Pin Up look I wear something that has a Matte finish like MAC Ruby Woo or MAC Russian Red (both bluish-red tones as well.) If you aren't comfortable with wearing a look that is really bold, or you're just looking to add a little touch of color to your lips you can always do a red lip gloss instead.


#3 Base. Smooth, even toned lips are really one of the most important things to consider when wearing any bold, matte shade. I will usually slather some lip balm on, let in set in and then rub my lips with a towel or tooth brush until they are nice and smooth. I then rub a little more lip balm and then some concealer on to my lips and just to my lip line and slightly outwards (some people wear a lipstick base) to wash out the natural color of my lips making the color applied truer and more intense. It also helps to creates a nice smooth surface for the lipstick to glide on to and help with bleeding or feathering. This leads us to the other most important point.


#4 Application and Neatness. Line those lips!!! I cannot stress this enough! When wearing reds, definition and neatness is really important. You don't want to look like Courtney Love now (unless you like looking like trash.) I like to line my lips on my natural lip line and fill in my entire lip. This will help further the intensity of your lipstick color as well as give it some serious staying power. I find that with red or bold colors, it is not a good idea to line outside your natural lip line (some people do this to create a fuller looking mouth.) Doing this causes the lip color to bleed out into the little lines around your lips.


Here is the trick I learned from my cousin Carmelyn. She literally wears red lipstick and Retro Waves in her hair ever single day. So glamorous! After making sure my lips are smooth, washing out the color and applying a good base, I line my lips. Then, I apply the lip color straight from the tube all over my lips. I carefully blot my lips on to a tissue. To prevent bleeding, I sometimes do a reverse lip liner with a small lip brush and concealer. Then, I take one layer of tissue to my lips (usually there are two) and dust some loose powder on to it over my lips as well as the outer areas surrounding my lips. Last, I take a lip brush and reapply the color. I concentrate the majority of the color on the inner parts of my lips, working my way out, thinning out the amount of product as I get closer I get to my lip line. Do not over load your lips with product!! Keep the layers thin and minimal. Also, you want to keep your general lip line area on the matte side with out to much of the actual lipstick there, too much product in that area will cause bleeding. You really just want to deposit just enough color in that area. If you lined your lips properly with a shade that matches your lipstick, you shouldn't really see a difference. That's it!


#5 Check Up and Retouch! My red lips usually stay in tact for about 4 hours without touch ups and if I eat carefully LOL! Beware: When wearing red lipstick, any bleeding of color or smudge will be really obvious and take you from classy to trashy really quick. So, keep a cute little mirror compact handy and check on your lips ever now and then. Don't obsess, just check up. What you may need to retouch: Q-tips, concealer, powder, lip brush and lip stick. The best thing to do is to not over load your lips with even more product. depending on your needs, you may just need a light touch up to the inner or midsection of your lips. If your red look starts to feather, do not redo your lips. Just take your q-tip and clean up just the area outside of your natural lip line that has the color bleeding out. In that area take your CLEAN lip brush and apply just a little concealer to keep your lips looking neat, reline your lips and then use your lip brush to apply your lip color only where you need to and blot. I usually don't have to go through all this but every once in a while . . .

#6 Own it! You really have to own it and know that you look great. Confidence is the key to pulling any look off.


Red lipsticks that I wear daily : All MAC Lipsticks: Russian Red (Matte) Bright Bluish-Red tone, Ruby Woo (Matte) Bright Bluish-Red tone, Mac Red (Satin) Classic Bluish-Red tone, Diva (Matte) Intense reddish-burgundy (This color is DRAMA.)

Thanks for Reading!

I Went Swimming Yesterday in a Purple Sun Block Skin Suit

Devan (age 2): Auntie, why does you skin look like that?

Makayla (age 8): Auntie, why is your skin purple? and neon . . . .

Husband (age 29 and mean): Ugh! What up with your skin? Isn't there a sun block that won't make you look like a neon barney? (not really what he said but something mean like that)

Auntie T (age 28 years of super hyper sensitive skin) :
Okay, okay! My skin is purple because I fear the sun and it burning powers! Sure, the sun is bright. It's fun, and warm and soothing. When it's nice to you, you can play outside all day, go to the beach or pool and hang out all day. But then you turn your back and go inside or the day is over and you have to leave. All of a sudden the sun is still on your back - your face, your neck and chest and its saying, " HA HA HA I got you!!!! mwa ha ha!" You are burned, red and ITCHY! The sun got you alright and the pain it causes will last for days and days.

I am purple because I don't care what it takes, how many layers of natural sunblock I have to put on, I am not getting a sun burn this summer!!!

DDF Organic Sun Protection SPF 30

3 layers of this all over my face, even around my eyes, neck and chest. No allergies. No Sunburn. Not so white or crazy purple when topped with some good old tinted moisturizer. YAY!


California Baby Water Resistant, Hypo-Allergenic Sunscreen, SPF 30+
Heavy, white, purple neon when it gets wet sunscreen. I can put this on my face and all over my body and not worry about breaking out, allergies to the actual product or getting a sunburn. I look ridiculous but at least my skin is protected. Ha Ha Ha!

Derma E Eyebright Eye Makeup Remover Sensitive Review

Derma E Eyebright Eye Makeup Remover

A light, oil-free formula that works quickly to safely remove eye makeup, leaving your skin fresh and ready for your favorite eye crème or moisturizer. Chamomile and Cucumber extracts soothe, refresh, and tighten skin while Eyebright extract protects against inflammation and irritation. Bilberry extract promotes healthy circulation, and Green Tea extract delivers important antioxidants to the delicate skin around the eyes. Suitable for all skin types and for those who wear contact lenses.

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Decyl Glucoside, Glycerin, Organic Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract (Certified Organic By Quality Assurance International, Usda or Guaranteed Organic Certification Agency), Organic Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract (Certified Organic By Quality Assurance International, Usda or Guaranteed Organic Certification Agency), Euphrasia Officinalis (Eyebright Extract, Vaccinium Myrtillus (Bilberry) Extract, Allantoin, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Panthenol, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin.

Derma E has some great products for sensitive skin. This is really, really good stuff! I have been using this eye makeup remover for about 2 years now.I have tried many different brands and either they didn't do the job or they are too strong and I am allergic to them. This one is super gentle on my eyes and it really does the job. The product itself is oil-free which is great because I tend to get little whiteheads around my eyes if the product is too greasy. This eye make up remover has a gel consistency to it which does not run when you are trying to apply it, keeping it on your targeted areas. I just take a couple of drops in my fingers and gently rub it onto my eyes just like I do with facial cleanser and rinse. I tend to wear a lot of eye make up, water proof liquid eyeliner and loads of mascara but this takes care of it all.

The Allergy Factor: I have not had any allergic reactions to this product! Big Big WOHOO! Even on my most sensitized day, in the middle of a bad eczema breakout, this product delivers great results without irritating my delicate eye area.

The Scent: If it even has one, it is so light that I don't notice it at all.

Bottom Line: No Allergies. No complaints. I really love and recommend this product. It's gentle enough for me to use on a daily basis but works hard to take off all of my eye makeup no matter how heavy. Boom!

Boots Expert Sensitive Gentle Smoothing Scrub Sensitive Review

Boots Expert Sensitive Gentle Smoothing Scrub

Sensitive skin needs extra care especially when exfoliating. This hypoallergenic scrub is formulated with smoothing beads, mineral water and aloe vera. It gently polishes to reveal smoother, softer and revitalized skin. Fragrance-free. Lanolin-free. Soap-free. Dermatologically tested.

Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Butylene Glycol, Polyethylene, Polysorbate 20, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Aqua Mineralis (Mineral Water), Methylparaben, Propylene Glycol, Tetrasodium EDTA, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract

Okay so, I picked this up at Target because the sales consultant at Sephora recommended this brand to me after a long conversation about whose skin was more sensitive (I won LOL!) I really need a good scrub because of my dry skin and eczema, my skin gets really flaky. If you know of a great one for sensitive skin let me know because sadly, I am still on the hunt for one.

This Sensitive Gentle Smoothing Scrub is sensitive, not so gentle, and not the most smoothing scrub. The consistency is like a clear thin gel base that is a little too runny for my taste. It has "gentle smoothing beads." The beads themselves are actually pretty big and rough. It's not the finest milled scrub that you would think "gentle" would consist of which is really disappointing. I have used this scrub 2 to 3 times a week for about three weeks and I really have to make sure that I do not put too much pressure on my face when I use this. It's just to rough of a scrub for my delicate skin. Honestly for sensitive skin, my Esthetician (who I rarely ever see) really does not recommend a scrub all together but who can afford a facial every 2 to 3 weeks just to exfoliate? Not me, so I scrub. Two and a half weeks and my just doesn't have the "glow" that I am looking for. My flaky patches are still flaky and my skin is actually a little more red than what we started off with.

The Allergy Factor: Aside from the mediocre and pretty disappointing results, I was really pleased with the fact that I am not allergic to this product. That was one thing that Boots really delivered with this scrub. I can probably use this every night just based on the non-allergy part. Alas, the too rough scrubbing beads just kind of scratch my skin which has made it red - not in a glowy, rosy kind of way but in a irritated, scratchy way :( BOO!

The Smell: There is none! Another great thing about this scrub's sensitive factor in this product that Boots gets points for.

Bottom Line: No allergies. No scent. No gentle. I like the fact that this scrub is really gentle as far as it's minimal, sensitive ingredients and the fact that it is fragrance-free, but the scrubbing beads are way too rough for my liking. For a drugstore product at more than $5, I just expected more. I just didn't get any real results from this product to recommend it, so I'm gonna say scrub at your own risk. On second thought, a simple scrub with organic Aloe Gel or Cetaphil and Sugar or Salt will probably do you better.

Boots Expert Sensitive Gentle Eye Make-up Removal Lotion Sensitive Review

Sensitive skin needs extra care especially around the eyes, that's why this hypoallergenic lotion with aloe vera softens as it works. Free from fragrance and lanolin, it has a blend of light oils to gently sweep away even waterproof make-up.

Dermatologically tested.

Ingredients: Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil), Isopropyl Palmitate, Cocos Nucifera Oil (Coconut), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf

Normally, I would use Cetaphil during my more sensitized days or the Derma E Eyebright Make Up Remover but I came across this brand at Target. The entire line was pretty cheap even by Target standards (about $5 a bottle) so I decided to give this Boots Expert Sensitive Gentle Eye Make-up Removal Lotion a try. Um . . . I was really disappointed by the product to say the least. A lot of other oil based eye make up removers that I have tried in the past actually aren't as greasy as this product is. It really didn't do much for removing anything. It really just smeared the makeup all over around my eyes and when I tries to rinse it off it just felt like a greasy mess. Now, I have been noticing little white heads around my eyes from too much oil build up. YUCK!!!!

The Allergy Factor: Aside from the product not delivering any great results, I have to say that I have not had any allergic reactions to it.
***UPDATE***8-2-09 I actually am allergic to this product after using this product for four days, my eyes are now red itchy and swollen. The reaction was a slow build up. For the first couple of days, no reaction. Then, yesterday I noticed a little itching after I used this product and today the allergies are full blown. Itchy swollen eye lids!!!!! ahhhh!!! I am so mad! On my way to take a Benadryl. F'ing Boots you're not sensitive or gentle!

The Smell: There is none which is great. Too bad that is about the only thing I like about it.

The Bottom Line: No allergies. ***UPDATE: Allergic reaction development. See above update***No scent. No recommendation. No good. I really didn't have much to say about this product because I really didn't like it at all. It just didn't do its job - period, end of discussion. In fact, I may try to return it tomorrow and get my $5 worth of something good. BOO!

Bobbi Brown Moisture Rich Foundation SPF 15

Bobbi Brown Moisture Rich Foundation SPF 15

Bobbi's popular moisturizing formula provides SPF 15 sun protection while it hydrates skin and delivers a soft, beautiful finish. The formula is buildable, allowing medium to full coverage as desired. For Normal to Dry skin types.

WARNING: This sensitive review probably contains way too much info. What can I say? I talk a lot.

I love Bobbi Brown's make up. I have been using this specific foundation for about a year. Bobbi's color range in foundations and concealers is the absolute best. They are yellow based which is perfect for my Asian skin with olive undertones. I have to say the coverage is pretty sheer and isn't the absolute best that I've tried, but it really is buildable in a natural way. The consistency of the actual product is thin - not watery but thin. It goes on really smooth and spreads pretty easily and doesn't need too much blending.

The Routine: First, I apply a thin layer all over my face with my clean fingers. Your fingers are the best and cheapest tools you will ever have. Plus, I think there is something about the warmth that comes from your hands that kind of warms up the foundation and make it blend in better. Then, I go over the areas that need more coverage, like around my nose and on my chin and forehead. Then, I go over my blemishes or scars with concealer (also with my fingers ) and a light dusting of sheer finish loose powder with a kabuki brush all over the face to set the look. This process takes more time than say a thicker foundation that will have more coverage off the bat, but in the end my makeup looks so much more natural - not cakey and I don't have a ton of makeup where I don't really need it like on my cheeks and nose.

Touching Up: I find that I do need a touch up in the middle of the day. I touch up with my little Face Touch Up Stick (see previous posted review) stick just on my scars and blemish spots. After, I will do another super light dusting of powder over the spots that have been touched up and on my T-zone. If I am going out at night I always wash my face and reapply for a super fresh face but if I really have no time a touch up will still look really natural with this stuff.

The Allergy Factor: For the most part I have not really had any allergic reactions to the make up part of her line. However, I am really allergic to her skin care line (see previous post.) Now, this specific product is a foundation with SPF in it. I noticed that I tend to have allergic reactions to products when SPF is automatically put into make up products, it just irritates my skin. I don't know exactly what it is but I have a theory.

In general, I am allergic to chemical sunscreens. I noticed this after years of having what I thought was a sunburn all over my body every single time I went out in the sun, until I put sunblock on and stayed in doors all day. I still had the same rash or reaction. Natural physical sunblocks with ingredients such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide (minerals) physically block suns rays. Chemical sunscreen on the other hand actually absorb the rays and partially convert it into energy, which leaves free radicals on your skin or so I am told. So it is probably a chemical sunscreen is this foundation that slightly irritates my skin. It isn't the worst type of irritation - it causes some slight drying, but nothing that some extra rich soothing moisturizer can't fix. Don't get me wrong though, obviously I wound rather use a foundation that does not irritate my skin at all, but pickings are slim. Ha ha ha! But at the end of the day this foundation really does not irritate my skin enough for me to discontinue my use of this product.

The Smell: The scent in this product is super light almost nothing and that make me really happy!

Bottom line: Light scent gets a 4 out of 5 (1 worst - 5 best) The Coverage gets a 4 out of 5. I have been using this stuff for about a year but I think I am going back to using Bobbi Brown's Luminous Moisturizing Foundation because the SPF irritates my skin just a bit in this product. Other than that, I have no complaints. This makeup line really is good natural looking stuff.

My Thyroid. My Weight. My Issues.

MMM. . . cake.
For the past eleven years I have been in a losing battle with my weight and I don't stand a chance. No matter how much I work out (sometimes 3 hours a day) and how much I try to count those f'ing calories, I am still losing weight at a very discouragingly slooooooow pace. My skin is Lubriderm alligator dry. I always feel so so tired. Not in a lazy way, but fatigued. I just don't have the energy to do anything. I feel like I am constantly trying to drink coffee or tea to wake me up or keep me energized throughout the day. I get these really horrible headaches. Sometimes I find it hard to concentrate because I'm so gosh darn tired. All because I have a low functioning thyroid or Hypothyroid. I was diagnosed about 9 years ago. In the past two years, this may have effected my baby making abilities as well.

Most people who suffer from hypothyroidism have never even heard of the deficiency and do not seek treatment or look for answers until the symptoms are really bad.

Symptoms to look out for:

Severe fatigue, loss of energy, persistent sleepiness

Weight gain, difficulty losing weight

Depressed mood

Joint and muscle pain

Dry skin, brittle nails and hair, thinning hair

Irregular periods

I wanted to share this info. about my health issues for a couple of reasons. First, if you are reading this blog, chances are you have sensitive, dry skin which is a symptom of hypothyroidism. Another reason is just simply to put the word out. If you are experiencing any or all of these symptoms - Get your thyroid levels checked !!!! Some doctors don't think to check if you are not expressing any concerns or if you don't ask to be tested for this specifically.

I suffered from severe migraine headaches everyday. These headaches would last days, weeks, even months. I was prescribed all sorts of drugs ending up with prescriptions that were addictive and pretty dangerous to be taking on a daily basis. In college my weight ballooned from 100 lbs to 130 to 150 and more in the span of about 2 years! I really didn't know what was going on. My eating habits were the same as they've ever been. I even started working out when I never have before. I worked out for 2 hours a day walking/jogging for 1 hour and then lifting weights, and doing yoga for another hour. I just keep gaining weight. No matter what I did I gained and gained. My skin also became dryer than usual, my eczema worse. My hair was also changing.

On top of all of this, I was tired as hell. It was funny, my junior year in high school, before Starbucks and frappes were even popular, I had to have my morning coffee. I could not get by without the coffee or the caffeinated soda everyday, every couple of hours. In college my joint and back aches started. I thought ," Wow! Am I getting old or what?" Ha Ha. Nope, just a dang thyroid problem that I was unaware of for years!

What happened was I had to change health insurance due to my mom getting a new job. I got better doctors who listened to me and found the problem. Now, I take medication everyday. I am not completely cured or even close to it. There are times where I feel my symptoms getting worse which usually means that my levels are lower than usual and I need to up my medication dosage. Everything I went through still happens just not as severe. I still have really horrible headaches every so often. I am still really low on energy and fell really fatigued quite often. I still drink a ton of coffee (when I am not in baby mode.)

I still battle with my weight. I have been able to maintain at a certain weight, but to lose that weight is so hard! An hour and a half of cardio 4 to 5 times per week, cutting back on my portions, counting calories, pilates 3 times a week and nothing!!!!! I maybe lose 1 pound every two weeks? It is very discouraging - seriously! I know I could have more control on the eating end but I burn 400 to 700 calories doing cardio. You think that would do something! I could go on but um . . . we should move on.

I have posted a couple of resources below for more information on the subject of hypothyroidism as well as hyperthyroidism. Obviously you can always google it .

Understanding Thyroid Problems - the Basics

Information on Thyroid Health

The reddish thing is just an overlay of where the thyroid should be and look like approximately. I think I made it too big though. LOL!

Again, I really just wanted to share this in hopes that it might reach someone battling the same things. I have had my share of issues with my skin, health, as well as in the baby making dept. - no baby after almost three years of trying :( You can only talk to family and friends so much and to my surprise these on-line communities, message boards and blogs are what have helped me through some really trying times. It is always good and comforting to hear from someone that is going through the same kind of things you are. So I will continue to post if anything comes up in any of those areas :) Technology is incredible in the anonymous, "I don't know you but I Internet know you" way and that is what's great about this day in age. HA HA I am old.

So . . .that is it. Thanks for reading!

Avene Hydrance Optimale Rich Hydrating Cream

Hydrance Optimale Rich Hydrating Cream has a gentle, creamy texture that provides ultimate skin comfort and immediate soothing benefits. With its original balance restored, the skin regains a softer, smoother, more supple feel and a radiant appearance.

The Avene Dermatological Hydrotherapy Center in France, has treated sensitive skin and other skin disorders for over two centuries. Based on the soothing properties of Avene thermals spring water, proven effective by numerous scientific studies, Avene Dermatological Laboratories created a complete range of dermo - cosmetic products to care for sensitive skin.

Tested on sensitive skin by dermatologists. Hypoallergenic and non - comedogenic.

Ingredients:Water (aqua), Mineral Oil (Paraffinum Liquidum), Glycerin, PPG 15 Stearyl Ether, Cyclomethicone, Cetearyl Alcohol, Carthamus Tinctoria (Safflower) Seed Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG 100 Stearate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Fruit, Cetearyl Glucoside, Benzoic Acid, Beta Sitosterol, BHT, C13 14 Isoparaffin, Chlorphenesin, Disodium EDTA, Fragrance (parfum), Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract, Laureth 7, Phenoxyethanol, Poloxamer 188, Polyacrylamide, Sodium Chondroitin Sulfate, Sodium Hydroxide, Xanthan Gum

I got this moisturizer in a little under three weeks ago. I really wanted to see if I could find something that works just as good if not better than my usual Anne Marie Borlind ZZ Sensitive Day Cream. Unfortunately, I was not impressed with this one.

I was really excited about all the positive sensitive skin reviews on this product that was supposed to be really healing, so I ordered it. I patiently waited and needed some much anticipated moisture (I was in the middle of a major allergy/skin attack - as previously posted.) I first tried this cream on the inside of my arm/elbow - no allergic reaction. The first week was fine. I didn't notice anything besides a bit of itchiness. I sort of thought this was a left over reaction to the original food allergy. It wasn't. The itchiness upon application just seem to get just a bit worse as time went on. It never amounted to a full blown rash/hive but it still slightly itchy through out the day.

This cream is made for dry to very dry sensitive skin. Although this cream didn't dry my skin out, it really didn't do much to moisturize it. I didn't necessarily feel like I had to reapply too often but by the later part of the day my skin was a little on the dry side. So I probably have to apply this cream about 2 to 3 times a day. The good thing about this cream is it's pretty light and really sinks into my skin very easily. Even after reapplying it, it never made my skin greasy or oily. I also noticed that I haven't had any acne breakouts from this product which is awesome.

The Smell: This moisturizer actually has a very strong scent to it that really bothers me. I truly believe that it is the fragrance in this product that is causing my allergy itchies which is really a shame.

I had really high hopes for this Avene product. People swear by this line and it healing properties. Their skin may not be as sensitive as mine. Although this particular product didn't work for me, I really love their Avene Thermal Spring Water spray (see review posted.) I may still give some of their other products a try just because I love the spray so much.

Bottom Line: I had a slight allergic reaction to this product which I believe is do to the strong fragrance factor. Also, I personally do not think that it was all that "moisturizing," especially since it is geared towards very dry sensitive skin. I will be discontinuing my use of this product today due to itchies and whoa! that's a ton of perfume.

Laura Mercier Moisturizing Foundation

Laura Mercier Moisturizing Foundation is a highly pigmented foundation especially formulated for drier or more mature skin & hydrates the skin with added moisture.

• Allows for truly buildable coverage, from a very sheer, weightless, "no makeup" look to more complete coverage
• Hydrates skin, softening & easing fine, dry lines
• Stays colour true and wears evenly
• Vitamins A, C & E act as antioxidants to protect the skin from harmful effects in the environment

• 
  

I have tried many foundations that claim to be hypoallergenic and have really been disappointed over and over again by the outcome - acne breakouts, itchy, flaky, red, irritated skin. As a result of all these disappointments, I am really weary about what I put in my skin. I really look into all the reviews and skin test it on my arm before I even put the product in my face.

I have heard really great things about this foundation so I decided to give it a try myself. Laura Mercier's Moisturizing foundation has really, really surprised me in a good way! I have been wearing this foundation for about three weeks now. I have not had any irritation from this product, even during my last allergy episode where my skin was flaky and cracked. No itchies and no breakouts to report. I have not noticed any drying either. In fact this foundation is really great at not settling into my dry patches and lines!

The Smell: This product has a very light pretty smell to it. It doesn't bother me at all. It's so light that I forget it has a scent :)

So this product really does everything it says its going to do. The formula is kind of watery for a foundation. I guess this is why it wears so light and natural. I really don't feel like I have a make-up mask on. Like I said, it really does hide my lines and dryness. If I do have shine it actually keeps it at bay all day. The coverage is really buildable and masks any scars and redness in my skin but still looks really natural. I have to say, the color stays true even through the current LA summer heat. Which brings us to the reason that I probably will not buy this product again.

The foundation colors in this line are really and truly limited and very disappointing! Even the woman behind the counter admits that Laura's colors are "not great" and "limiting." At first I thought maybe the consultant matched my skin wrong, so I went back to exchange it for a different color twice. Turns out the first color was the best they could do for my skin tone (I have a light to medium skin tome with olive and yellow undertones.) The color that I brought home was a shade too light with a pink undertone. It does not match my skin at all. I can wear it but I put this on really lightly and have to wear a lot more bronzer to get it to match the rest of my skin. So so sad! I just cannot bring myself to keep wearing it when I have to work so hard to make it work.

Bottom Line: I have not had any allergic reactions to this product. I love the formula and its buildable coverage. It applies easily and wears really smooth and natural but the colors suck a**!
Overall, I do highly recommend this foundation. Maybe you'll one of lucky ones and find a color in Laura Mercier's line that actually works for you. Unfortunately I didn't. This is definitely going to be a Return due to poor color selection.
Boo :(

Dior's DiorShow Mascara Sensitive Review

Inspired by the runway and behind-the-scenes tricks, DiorShow Mascara gives lashes a triple-shot of glamour, leaving them luxuriously thick, lengthened and curled to the max. Its easy-to-use XXL brush is generously curved for maximum coverage, while its logo-stamped silver packaging makes it a fashion must-have for every handbag!

I'm not sure that the logo makes this a fashion must have. That is just f*ing ridiculous. I mean really? Really? Unless you're such a label whore that this really does appeal to you. Then I have no words . . . Ha ha!

Anyway, I love this mascara! I have full lashes but they are not very long or very thick so I really need that extra umph. This mascara really does the trick with its extra thick and very black formula. The brush itself is really big and full which is great for grabbing those lashes. I have never experience any clumping with this product, even after three coats. The mistake I made with one tube was to keep it in my car (I would do my makeup in my car before work.) Do not do this! At first, it didn't seem to affect it too much. The color, smell and texture when applying were the same, but as the day wore on it became flaky and broke off leaving little black mascara flakes on my cheeks. I have to mention this because I have read reviews that DiorShow will do this very thing. It was probably because you left it in a purse or car on a hot day. Don't blame the mascara! Speaking of a hot day . . . I sweat and I tend to tear up a lot (allergies, being emotional, laughing hysterically)and still, even the non-waterproof formula stays put with no smudges.

Now for the Allergy Factor:

The Smell: It has one, it does but its a pretty "I just spent twenty something dollars on mascara so I have to love it" smell. Ha ha. I normally don't like anything with scent or fragrance in it but this just works too well for me to pass up just because it smells good, you know?

I cannot sleep in this mascara. I have been drunk and had to sleep in my make-up. I always regret doing it in the morning. I know that I can put this on and wear it all day and well into the night and not think about whether it will give me puffy, itchy eyes. Wohoo! But the minute I sleep in it I wake up rubbing my puffy, itchy eyes. I also never put this on when an allergy attack is in full force. I try not to put anything on when I'm in the middle of an episode. I also have to mention that I have a slightly more severe allergic reaction to the waterproof formula for some odd reason.

Bottom Line: I say if you are really sensitive like I am, still give it a try just because it is just a great product. I really do stand by this mascara despite its scent and my overnight allergy to it. It does everything: great brush, great formula, really black color, lengthens and thickens without weighing my lashes down. It's only downfall is that compared to the drugstore $10 mascaras (that can probably do a great job as well) it is really pricey at $20 something a pop. I think it's worth it though *shrugging shoulders*

Remember: what works/doesn't work for me can have an opposite effect on you. Everyone's sensitivities are different:)

I am obsessed with MAC Eyeshadows! Sensitive Review

My makeup obsession started in Junior High School when my mom bought me my first Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey. It was the perfect natural berry stain and it was mine . . . all mine. Since then, I've gone though the really ridiculous dark lipstick phase and the "I wear so much makeup, you could peel it off me and wear it as a mask" look.

The whole time my skin has been on this roller coaster of allergic reactions. My face would itch, swell, peel, and flake so much so that I would have to moisturize all day long. I knew I was sensitive but let's face it, at that age I just didn't care!

Now I have no choice but to be very selective about what I put on my skin. With eczema, adult acne, scarring, allergies and some major dryness, I am really self conscious about my skin. So I am going to start to post a review on anything and everything that I use on my skin. Hopefully there is someone out there who's skin and self confidence will benefit from a little sensitive skin wisdom.

I have tried every brand available to me and with some brands some colors irritate me and some don't. Just to name a few: Shiseido, Clinique, Urban Decay, Stila, Perscriptives, Dior, and Cargo are ones that I have had allergic reactions to some but not all of their products. Lamcome and Estee Lauder have major irritants in their products so I have learned to just not go there!

First on my list of great products for sensitive skin . . . MAC Eye Shadows!

I really cannot say enough about their eye shadows. For the most part, I have had great sensitive skin results with them (strictly and specifically the eye shadows.) I wear a number of these shades, matte as well as shimmer shades, everyday without any irritation. I am so thankful that my skin just happens to be compatible with this brand's eye shadows . With their vast range of colors and finishes, I really don't miss out on all the make up fun! I have recently started buying the palettes. I am so excited and so obsessed with my collection nowadays. It's sick - seriously! I am just happy that I can wear these great colors and not be afraid of having itchy, watery, puffy eyes!

Some of my faves are:

Brule

This shade is the first one I put on over my base all over my eyes just to even out whatever color (redness or darkness) there might be.

Retrospeck
This is the perfect shimmery highlight shade to brighten up the inner corners of my eyes and highlight just beneath my brows.

All That Glitters
This warm shimmery nude shade is a great neutral that I use on my lids. A quick wash of this just kind of warms up the color of my lids. On a really easy make-up day, this and some simple black eye liner and I'm done!

Beautiful Iris
I am obsessed with this shade for the summer. I wear this on my lids as a light wash of color to keep it simple during the day. For a night time look, I like to wear this on my lid, Knight Divine or Print in my crease, and some smokey black eyeliner with Carbon, and loads and loads of black mascara. LOVE this color!

Shale
Shale looks like it would be an obvious purple but it's not. I use this on my lid and it just has a slight purple hue to it. It is almost neutral. I like to wear this with my brown/neutral shades just to mix things up a tiny bit.
Tilt
This is my new favorite! My sister gave this to me because she already had this in her collection. She loved the color so much she accidentally bought two. I am so glad. Before I got this, I was to scared to wear color. This color is what really got me going on wearing brights and colors instead of my everyday neutral eye. It is a totally wearable blue shade that has a silver hue to it. I love this on the lid with Knight Divine in the crease and Contrast(navy) as a liner. Just a simple smokey blue/gray eye.
Soba
Soba is my go to for a really neutral eye. I wear this right in the crease for a little definition.
Soft Brown
This is a new fave in my collection. I use this in my crease when I am going for a peachy clean look. When I'm doing my red lipped pin up look, I use Shroom on my lid and this perfect simple shade to define my crease with. Just throw on some dramatic black liner and that's it! This shade is also great for blending your darker crease colors to your highlight for a seamless effect.

Tempting
Tempting has been my faves for years, probably since High School (that is long time.) It is a golden brown, highly shimmery shade. I use this in my crease. It is also really great for smoking out your brown or black liner for a smokey day time look. It has shimmer and a hint of gold that catches the light and really softens those lines for a simply put together look.

Print
This medium grey shade works with my neutrals, browns, blues, purples . . . oh just about anything! This is a must have. It is so versatile - light handed, it's great for lids, in the crease, it's the perfect grey eye, and as a liner - so smokey. I Love Love Love!
Knight Divine
Knight Divine is a blue toned shimmery dark grey. This is the shade I go to when Print just doesn't have enough umph and shimmer. This is the perfect shade for a very sexy smokey eye!
Mystery
The go to dark brown for everyone. Perfect for extra definition in the crease and as a liner. I have brown/black hair so I use this with a little bit of cork to define my brows.

Carbon
The blackest black shadow. I use this over my cream or liquid liner to smoke it out or for extra staying power. Cannot live without this!

Note: So far, their eyeshadow are the only thing I buy without worry from this line. I do have to tell you, I try and stay away from their bases, i.e. MAC Creme Colour Base, Paints, and Paint Pots because I have had allergic reactions to them. I do wear some of their lipsticks but have mixed reactions to specific colors and formulas but that's another story.

Bottom Line: I am obsessed with MAC eye shadows because they have a great range of beautiful, versatile colors that I am NOT allergic to.

NeilMed Sinus Rinse Kit

Don't let allergies and chronic sinus issues ruin your day. Use the Sinus Rinse kit, a physician developed, complete saline nasal rinse kit. The Sinus Rinse kit helps to alleviate allergies, chronic sinus disease, and other nasal irritation from things like occupational dust, smog, and smoke. Super easy to use and travel with, too. Pre-measured packets take the guesswork out of preparing the solution and keep things clean. Plus, the smooth flow bottle empties 100% in the upright position. The kit includes the rinse bottle with cap and tube, 50 packets of saline powder, and a helpful educational pamphlet. Preservative and latex free, pH balanced, and no burning or stinging.

This description of the NeilMed Sinus Rinse Kit really does not tell you exactly how you're going to rinse your sinus, does it? Ha Ha!

Well, let me first start off by saying, this stuff really works! My allergies are a hundred times better. I have really severe allergies to everything nature and chemical allergies as well. I have long suffered from runny noses, bloody noses, sore throats from post nasal dripping, and just about everything you could think of! At one point I took a Sudafed everyday for my sinus headaches. This product has been a god send! The Rinse helps to flush out all the dust, pollen and everything else that causes those allergies. My headaches hardly ever make an appearance and I sleep so much better since I've been using this. Now that I have said my piece . . .

The process is as follows:

1. You fill your water bottle to fill line with warm water. Remember: not hot, warm!
   
2. Take your little pack of solution and pour it into the bottle.
3. Shake it around gently to mix.
4. Blow your nose gently to get all that extra gunk out - eww!
   
5. Now, your going to take the bottle, put the tip of the bottle up to your nostril and . . .
   
6. Squeeze the water into your nose . . . yes into your nostril up your nose!
   

What is going to happen?

The water will go up your nose and out through either your other nostril or if you are really stuffed up, your mouth, clearing out your sinuses. Make sure you breathe through your mouth while the the water is flushing through.

Yikes! This all sounds like an awkward and disgusting process. Believe me, I know! The first time I did this I thought, "Ugh! Are my mocos/boogies/snot really coming out my mouth!" Yeah! they are and it's gonna be pretty gross and its gonna be pretty salty. But after, you will feel sooooo much better!

If you do it right, you should not feel like you got water up your nose like in a pool. Some people say they feel a slight sting. This is not the case with me. I usually do a whole bottle to each side when I am really stuffed up. I use this rinse daily , once during the morning and once before bed. Beware: You might experience some nose water/snot leakage minutes after you are done with the rinse. I think this happens because not everything gets flushed out right away and what ever is left over really loosens up after a couple of minutes. Drip. Drip. So, until you know how you will react to it, keep a tissue handy.

Bottom Line: I cannot live without this product. Without it I would be a sneezing, nose rubbing mess! Although the process may be a bit weird to get used to, it really helps with clearing your sinus. It is natural and doesn't require a prescription. I say everything is worth a try for the luxury of actually being able to breath! Ahh, Sniff! Sniff!

Avene Thermal Spring Water

Soothes and Softens Sensitive Skin

• 
  

• Hypoallergenic
• Preservative - Free
  

Avene thermal spring water spray is packaged in a sterile compartment on the actual site of the spring. This packaging technology, which is unique of its kind in the world, guarantees a product whose biological purity and effectiveness are completely intact. In addition, the spray is sealed with a tamper - proof protective film.

Avene thermal spring water, discover the most beautiful way to care for sensitive skin...

Made in France

I love this spray! I first did an allergy test by spraying the product on the inner part of my arm/elbow - no negative reactions, no redness and no itching. I've been using this product for about a week now. I spray it on right before I put my moisturizer on and just lightly pat it dry with a tissue. Then, after I put on my makeup and dust my powder all over my face, I spray this on to set the makeup. This just makes everything look just a little dewy, moisturized, and natural. You can also use this when you touch up your makeup and just to refresh your face anytime of the day, it feels so cool and refreshing. ohhhhh! ahhhh! Just like that.

This product is very similar to the Evian Spray Brumisateur Natural Mineral Water which I used to use religiously.

The Evian spray is good for moisture and also as a refresher spray but I really like this Avene spray much better. It might just be me but I feel like it really helps, not just with the moisture but it also has this soothing affect on my skin. Last week I had a really bad allergy breakout all over my face, neck, and body. I sprayed this on and it really helped to soothe the burning, itchy feeling.

Bottom Line: I am so happy with this product! I will definitely buy this again and will continue using it on a daily basis.

Bobbi Brown Hydrating Face Cream

Bobbi Brown Hydrating Face Cream

This nourishing cream replenishes skin with the moisture it loses daily. Bobbi Brown Hydrating Face Cream is formulated with Algae Extract, a hydrating botanical, and Kukui Nut Oil, a natural extract that effectively softens skin and prepares it for smooth, seamless makeup application. Dermatologist-tested.

Ingredients: Water (aqua purificata) purified, Caprylic/capric triglyceride, Glycerin, Isostearyl neopentanoate, Stearic acid, Hydrogenated vegetable oil, Dimethicone, Cetyl alcohol, Dea-cetyl phosphate, Lime (citrus aurantifolia) juice, Tocopheryl acetate, Aloe vera (aloe barbadensis) gel, Lemon (citrus limonum) juice powder, Sodium pca, Sodium hyaluronate, Retinyl palmitate, Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, Tocopherol, Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, Stearyl alcohol, Disodium edta, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Ethylparaben, Butylparaben, FD&C yellow no. 5 (CI 19140), FD&C red no. 4 (CI 14700).

I have been told time and time again, whenever I pick up my foundation, that I should really try the skin care because the whole line is really geared toward sensitive skin . . . blah, blah, blah! What a SUCKER I was! Even despite my better judgement upon trying this product at the counter, and smelling it, I purchased it.

I tried this Hydrating Face Cream about 6 months ago for about three weeks. I really wanted this moisturizer to work for me because I love Bobbi Brown's foundation and face powders. I thought that since I haven't had any problems with the her cosmetics, maybe the skin care would work for me as well. For $50 a pop you think it would be the best thing ever.

Sadly, I really didn't take to it. The cream although really rich, was more like a paste. This product really didn't have a long lasting effect of my skin. I had to re-apply to feel "moisturized" and because the consistency was so thick, I just ended up feeling really greasy. In the end, it really didn't help to soothe my skin. As far as actually being allergic to it, I did have a slight reaction to it with little itches and some breakouts on my chin and forehead.

The Smell : (I think "The Smell" should get its own section in all my reviews now.)
It smells - that is what the problem is! Ha ha. I really don't like anything with a strong scent to it and this was just as strong as anything Este` Lauder would have made. No good for people with sensitive skin. No good for me.

Unfortunately, I bought this at a department store that didn't really have too great of a return policy. So, I ended up giving it to my mom. Background on Mom: She is in her early 60's with really fair, combination skin, no sensitivity, hardly any wrinkles. She loved it and has recently switched to over to the Bobbi Brown Extra SPF 25 Tinted Moisturizer.

Bottom Line: On ME: I wanted to make it work but it just didn't impress me. It was heavy without being soothing or really moisturizing - just greasy. Allergy result: After three weeks, it made me breakout with acne and little itchy patches on my forehead and chin. I don't know exactly what is was but the strong scent in the product didn't help either. On my MOM: Keep in mind, she has perfect skin with not an ounce sensitivity to department store skin care products and she LOVED it. I have to admit her skin does look better now. ***shrugging my shoulders***

Bobbi Brown Foundation Stick

Bobbi Brown Foundation Stick

Bobbi's innovative Foundation Stick is designed for portability and adjustable coverage. Easy to apply and blend all over the face or just where you need it. For all skin types, except very oily.

I first tried this foundation when I had a really bad acne streak. I needed something gentle with more coverage than my usual foundation could offer without looking caked on. So of course i went to my fave BB counter at Nordstrom's.

I was really excited for the convenient packaging, I could just pop it into my purse and go. This product offered great coverage and it really seamed to cover my blemishes with ease. The only thing that really bothered me was that the consistency was really thick, even when applied sparingly with a brush. At the end of the day it seemed to settle into my dry patches and lines. So, my solution was to use my regular foundation all over my face. Then, only apply this foundation stick to the tiniest of areas that needed the full coverage which seemed to work better but I still was not satisfied. After a while I noticed that the product was actually making my breakouts more pustular. Eek! It was like my face could not breath.

Bottom Line: This product had the coverage I was looking for but I just was not happy with this its thickness. I don't think I was allergic to it. It just was not for my skin type. BLAH!

Bobbi Brown Long Wear Gel Eyeliner

Bobbi Brown Long Wear Gel Eyeliner

This award-winning liner offers the precision of a liquid liner and the ease of a gel-based formula.

Awarded: "Elle" ‘Genius Award’ (April 2008), "In Style" 'Best Beauty Buy' (2008), and "Allure" ‘Reader's Choice Award’ (2008).

With my allergies and sensitive eyes, it is hard for me to find an eye liner that doesn't make my eyes tear or puff up. This eyeliner has not caused any problems so far but be informed, I tend not to wear eyeliner or mascara during my flare ups.

I purchased this product over a year ago when I was really into my dramatic liquid eyeliner phase, so I didn't use it too often and just kind of forgot about it. Just recently I've been doing this smokey day time eye and well, I wanted something that would blend and smoke out easily. I found this in my drawer and decided to give it another try.

I LOVE this gel eyeliner! It is much more forgiving than my usual liquid eyeliner but goes on just as dark and lasts just as long. I love it because even though you have to work really quickly with this stuff, you can smudge it out and it will stay in place like that all day long! Its my new fave for night time liner too just because I tend to get a bit sweaty on the dance floor - it does not smudge and is still there for late night diner/taco truck eats.

I did buy the BB brush that they recommend with this but when using this, I found that using an angled eye-liner brush with stiff synthetic bristles from any brand works. This gel eye liner goes on like butter baby - smooth and easily correctable. Beware: You MUST make sure the jar is SEALED TIGHTLY or your product will dry out. Like most BB cosmetics that some in tiny jars, it's pricey but this product only needs the tiniest amount to do a big job.

Bottom Line: No allergic reactions. I'm glad I gave this another try and I highly recommend this gel eyeliner!