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Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty Sale Info

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Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty Sales is one of the best sales in the beauty community. It comes around twice a year–once in the spring, and once in the fall. If you’re unfamiliar with Ulta’s 21 Day of Beauty, it’s a month long sale where a ton of high end makeup is on sale for 50% off or more. Brands included in the sale are Anastasia, Peter Thomas Roth, Mario Badescu, Tarte, Too Faced, Lancome, among many others.

I know I just put out a recommendations post regarding the Sephora VIB Event, and I don’t want you to think I’m telling you you NEED to purchase from both. I’m just an mere informant. Today, I’m going to give my recommendations from this Ulta sale as well as give you the full sale list.

A couple pieces of basic information:

  • The sale runs from September 2-22
  • Save a little extra by remembering to shop through Ebates. I’m not in collaboration with or sponsored by Ebates, I just really love it and use it every time I shop online.

My Recommendations

I doubt I’ll pick anything up from this sale, since I just placed a pretty hefty Sephora order. If I were to grab anything, these are the items I have my eyes on.

9/2: Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Cloud Serum and Cleanser

I’ve never tried either of these products, but they appear to be great for hydrating and as an anti-aging agent. The serum is originally $65 and is on sale for $32. the cleanser is generally $28, but is on sale for $14.

9/5: Skyn Iceland Trial Size Hydro Cool Firming Eye Gels

I don’t always have these on hand, but I’ve used them in the past. They’re phenomenal. They really firm the under eye area and give your a flawless base for makeup. This set is $15 but is on sale for $7.50.

9/7: Lancome Monsuier Big Mascara

This is really exciting to see.  I had a sample of this, and I loved it. It’s usually $25 but will be on sale for $12.50 during this sale. I’m very tempted to get this one.

9/15: Mario Badescu Vitamin C Serum

I always have this in my skincare cabinet. And I always buy it during this sale. I’m going to skip this year, because I got some for Christmas, and I’m still working through it. It’s a lightweight serum packed with vitamin C and brightens the skin. It’s a little expensive, $45, but will be $22.50.

9/17: First Aid Beauty Face Cleanser

I talk about this product a lot. It’s one of my favorite cleansers. It’s usually $20 but will only be $10.

 

The Full Sale List:

  • 9/2: Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Serum and Water Drench Cloud Cream Cleanser

    • Serum: NOW $32.50/Reg. $65
    • Cleanser: NOW $14/Reg. $28

  • 9/2: Too Faced Hangover Replenishing Face Primer

    • NOW $17/Reg. $34

  • 9/3: Proactiv 3-Step System

    • NOW $25/Reg. $50

  • 9/3: Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eyeliners

    • NOW $11/Reg. $22

  • 9/4: BECCA Shimmering Skin Perfector Liquid Highlighter

    • NOW $20.50/Reg. $41

  • 9/4: Mario Badescu Acne Facial Cleanser

    • NOW $7.50/Reg. $15

  • 9/5: Benefit Hoola Matter Bronzer Powder & Hoola Light Matte Bronzing Powder

    • NOW $15/Reg. $30

  • 9/5: Skyn Iceland Travel Size Hydro Cool Firming Eye Gels

    • NOW $7.50/Reg. $15

  • 9/6: Murad Age Reform Hydro-Dynamic Ultimate Moisture

    • NOW $37.50/Reg. $75

  • 9/6: Tarte Quick Dry Matte Lip Paint

    • NOW $10/Reg. $20

  • 9/7: Lancome Monsieur Big Mascara

    • NOW $12.50/Reg. $25

  • 9/7: Perricone Cold Plasma+ Franchise

    • NOW $42.50-$79.50/Reg. $85-$159

  • 9/8: Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Definer Pencil

    • NOW $11.50/Reg. $23

  • 9/8: Purity Made Simple Pore Extractor Exfoliating Clay Mask

    • NOW $17.50/Reg. $35

  • 9/9: bareMinerals Mineral Veil Finishing Powder

    • NOW $11/Reg. $23

  • 9/9: EXUVIANCE Age Reverse Total Correct + Sculpt Serum, Age Reverse HydraFirm, Age Reverse Eye Contour

    • Serum: NOW $39.50/Reg. $79
    • HydraFirm: NOW $39/Reg $78
    • Eye Contour: NOW $39.50/Reg. $79

  • 9/9: IT Brushes for ULTA Velvet Brushes

    • NOW $12-$17/Reg. $24-$54

  • 9/10: Estee Lauder Daywear Moisture Cream

    • NOW $17/Reg. $34

  • 9/10: Stila One Step Correct and One Step Prime Face Primers

    • NOW $18/Reg. $36

  • 9/11: BUXOM Plumpline Lip Liner

    • NOW $9/Reg. $18

  • 9/11: Lancome Cils Booster XL Vitamin Infused-Mascara Primer

    • NOW $12.75/Reg. $25.50

  • 9/12: Dermablend Setting Powder

    • NOW $13.50/Reg. $27

  • 9/12: Too Faced Lip Injection Extreme

    • NOW $14/Reg. $28

  • 9/13: Clarisonic Cleansing Brush Heads

    • NOW $13.50-$16/Reg. $27-$32

  • 9/13: Smashbox Photo Finish Pore Minimizing Primer

    • NOW $19.50/Reg. $39

  • 9/14: Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel

    • NOW $19/Reg. $38

  • 9/14: IT Cos Universal Brow Pencil

    • NOW $12/Reg. $24

  • 9/15: Mario Badescu Vitamin C Serum

    • NOW $22.50/Reg. $45

  • 9/15: Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes 4-in1 Mascara and Tarteist Lash Paint Mascara

    • NOW $11/Reg. $23

  • 9/16: Philosophy Renewed Hope in a Jar 2OZ.

    • NOW $19.50/Reg. $39

  • 9/16: Too Faced Chocolate Bar Eyeshadow Palette

    • NOW $24.50/Reg. $49

  • 9/17: BECCA Evermatte Poreless Primer

    • NOW $19/Reg. $38

  • 9/17: FAB Face Cleanser

    • NOW $10/Reg. $20

  • 9/18: SeroVital hgh Dietary Supplement

    • NOW $49.50/Reg. $99

  • 9/18: Tarte Double Duty Beauty Busy Gal BROWS Tinted Brow Gel

    • NOW $9/Reg. $18

  • 9/19: Juice Beauty Skincare Kits

    • NOW $20-$26/Reg. $40-$52

  • 9/19: MAC In Extreme Dimension 3D Black Lash Mascara

    • NOW $12/Reg. $24

  • 9/20: Cover FX Custom Enhancer & Glitter Drops

    • Enhancer: NOW $21/Reg. $42
    • Glitter: NOW $22/Reg. $44

  • 9/20: Origins Best of Kit

    • NOW $11/Reg. $22

  • 9/21: Benefit the POREfessional Face Primer

    • NOW $16/Reg. $32

  • 9/21: Clinique Moisture Surge 72 Hour Auto-Replenishing Hydrator 1OZ.

    • NOW $9.50/ Reg. $19

  • 9/22: IT Cosmetics Confidence in a Cream Moisturizing Super Cream

    • NOW $24/Reg. $48

  • 9/22: Urban Decay All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray

    • NOW $16/Reg. $32

Up Next: 10 Recommendation from Sephora | VIB Appreciation Event Info

/ Beauty

VIB Sale Haul

vib-sale-haul

As you probably know, Sephora’s VIB sale occurred last week. I purchased a few items, and I thought I’d share them with you. Among a few Christmas gifts that I won’t mention, I mainly purchased new items I haven’t tried before that may have been a little too expensive for me to test out at full-price. I also replenished a few items.

Beauty Blender Makeup Sponges: Just before the sale, my sponges were not in good shape, so I definitely wanted to replenish those. I like the pink and black for different reasons (not just the color). The black is a little more dense, and I use it when I want a fuller coverage in my foundation and concealer. The pink is a little fluffier and gives me a lighter, more natural coverage.

Kat Von D Tattoo Liner in ‘Trooper:’ Again, I conveniently ran out of this just before the start of the sale, so I knew I wanted another. It’s very black and lasts all day on your eyes (and what feels like forever in the tube. I’ve been using a sample for months.) I also haven’t found a brush head I like as much as this. It has a brush tip and is flimsy enough that I have a lot of control and movement but isn’t too soft that I can’t get a sharp, precise line.

Elizabeth and James ‘Find Your Nirvana’ Rollerball Set: I was really excited a few months back when Elizabeth and James released two new fragrances, Rose and Bourbon; however, since they’re a bit on the pricey side, I didn’t want to try them out in the full-size without knowing if I enjoyed the scent and how it wore on my body. When I saw this set in my local store, I was stoked. I already knew I liked the White and Black scent, and this set gave me rollerballs in all four. I also have to say, I love the new scents and am tempted to buy Bourbon, or perhaps put it on my list for Santa.

Fresh Vitamin Nectar Vibrancy Boosting Face Mask: This has just recently been launched, but I have read good things about this mask. I’ve yet to try it, but I can say it smells good. It’s full of crushed citrus fruits, vitamins, and minerals that supposedly correct dullness and uneven skin tone and texture. I’ll give it a go and let you guys know an update in a few weeks.

Youth to the People Kale + Spinach + Hyaluronic Acid Age Prevention Cream: Another thing I conveniently ran out of just before the start of this sale was my moisturizer, and I even looked in my back stock of products and didn’t have an extra, so obviously I had to buy another (; I wanted to try something new but stay along the same lines of what I’ve liked in the past. I have pretty normal skin, maybe a little oily in my T zone and like a light weight formula. I came across this on the website and thought I’d give it a go. I haven’t used it yet, but I was intrigued by the ingredients. I figured they were good to be put into my body, so they’d probably fare well on my skin. It also smells really good and does feel lightweight.

Shiseido Facial Cotton: I am aware these are $10 cotton pads. I just wanted to see what the hype was about. I’ll keep you updated. I’ve nothing more to say about this purchase. Moving on.

Guelain L’Or Pure Radiance Face Primer: This is something else I’ve seen a lot of hype about on YouTube and among beauty bloggers, and I wanted to try it out. It’s a makeup primer that is infused with 24-carat gold flecks and is supposed to double as a kind of firming treatment to smooth fine lines and provide an even finish beneath makeup. Again, I haven’t tried this out yet, but I’ll update you in a few weeks.

I went a little overboard, but I finally am in a place where I’m able to pick and play and actually utilize the sale. Did you pick anything up during the VIB sale? I’d love to know in the comments or tag me in photos on Instagram and Twitter @jacqie__ or on The Lipstick Narratives Facebook page. I love seeing hauls!

 

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/ Beauty

6 New Beauty Products on My Wishlist

new beauty products

A few posts back, I mentioned I hadn’t been buying a lot of makeup lately. And that’s been for a few reasons. 1) I wanted to spend money on a few other things over the past few months, like some trips, lots of books, and swapping out some clothing items. 2) The over-consumption overload got overwhelming. There were so many new releases, and I wasn’t entirely interested in any of them. Because 3.) I really have made a point to use what I already have – so I can review them better here, get my money’s worth, and fall back in love with makeup and the art of using it as opposed to new makeup and the art of buying it. However, there have been a few launches that have really caught my eye lately. And today we’re going to go over 6 new beauty products on my wishlist.

6 New Beauty Products On My Wishlist

new beauty products - hindash modernchromance gradient palette

Hindash Monochromance Gradient Palette: I have a really bad habit of falling headfirst for eyeshadow palettes with color stories that speak to me. The problem is, I love the colors and the color stories, but I don’t wear them on my eyes. I can’t decide if this palette falls into that category for me.

It’s a beautiful multi-use pigment palette that features warm browns, reds, turquoise and deep blues, purples, and pinks. And I want it. I almost bought it at launch, but I just haven’t convinced myself I would actually use it. On one hand, I have been very lowkey with my makeup lately. (Shout out to depression.) On the other hand, I really want to start getting back into playing with color cosmetics.

The cool thing about the Hindash palettes is that instead of consisting of individual pans of color, the various shades take the form of a gradient so you can customize the color. And that’s intriguing. If I decide to get it, you’ll know, because I’ll definitely do a full review here.

new beauty products - kosas revealer foundation

Kosas Revealer Skin-Improving Foundation*: The Kosas Revealer Concealer* is my favorite concealer of all time. It’s so creamy, offers good coverage, and makes my under eye area look bright and even. So when Kosas launched a foundation in the same Revealer line, I immediately added it to my Loves List on Sephora’s website.

The Revealer Skin-Improving Foundation* is a medium coverage that is supposed to almost double as skincare. Hyaluronic acid and peptides plump, firm, and hydrate. Squalane, arnica, and vitamin B5 soothe, calm, and balance skin’s moisture levels. And niacinamide and caffeine brighten, smooth, and even skin tone. The formula also contains an SPF 25. (I would still advise wearing a stand alone sunscreen underneath, though.)

new beauty products - gucci liquid matte lipstick

Gucci Rouge a Levres Liquid Matte Lipstick*: I can’t help it, I love Gucci’s beauty line. Not only is the packaging gorgeous, the products are really good. Their lipsticks are some of my favorites on the market right now, and every time they come out with a new formula, I want to try it out. They recently launched a matte liquid lipstick. And I know what you’re thinking: “Aren’t liquid lipstick out?”

Sure some formulas can be really drying, but personally, I think they have a place. When I want to make sure my lip color doesn’t budge, especially if it’s a bright and bold color, I love reaching for a liquid formula. And if the formula on this matte liquid lipstick from Gucci is anything like their matte bullet lipsticks*, I’m in. I think their matte formula is comfortable, long-wearing, and doesn’t dry out my lips.

I’m really eyeing the shades:

new beauty products - laura mercier tanslucent setting spray

Laura Mercier Translucent Pure Setting Spray*: While this one is probably the least compelling on this list, I still have been tempted since I saw it on Sephora’s New page. Laura Mercier’s Loose Translucent Setting Powder* is a cult classic, and for good reason. It sets your makeup and doesn’t make your face look cakey. So the thought of a setting spray with a similar effect is intriguing. I love a good setting spray.

It’s described as a microfine setting spray that comfortably sets makeup for up to 16 hours while nourishing the skin. A plant-derived matrix provides a breathable barrier against pollutants and locks in makeup for hours. Purslane flower soothes, nurtures, and protects the skin. Glycerin-infused water provides a refreshing feeling.

I’m currently making my way through a few facial sprays: the Caudalie Beauty Elixir*, L’Oreal Lumi Glow Mist*, Tula Refreshing & Brightening Face Mist*, and my beloved Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray*. When I finish one or two of these, I might try out this one from Laura Mercier.

new beauty products - merit signature lipstick

Merit Signature Lightweight Lipstick*: I can’t resist a new lipstick launch, especially when it’s from a brand I hold to a high standard. If you remember my Merit Beauty Review, you’ll know I liked every product I tried, especially their lip oil. So I feel like I’ll also love this lipstick formula.

It’s a sheer, satin finish lipstick with the benefits of a balm but not the heaviness of a traditional lipstick. I don’t looove sheer lipsticks, but I definitely like having them around. Plus, they’re great over lip liners. Also, I won’t lie, the packaging totally sucked me in. It’s sexy packaging.

I also am intrigued by the colors. There are 8 shades, and while they’re all pretty safe and there aren’t any insanely vibrant or out there shades, there’s a great variety. 1990 is a delicious deep brown and was the first I added to my cart. There are some reds, pinks, and nudes as well.

I actually picked two of these up in the recent SEPHORA VIB Sale – 1990* and Fashion*, a soft berry. I’ll keep you posted on what I think!

new beauty products - auric plush ritual lip treatment

Auric Plush Ritual Ceramide Lip Treatment: And last but not least on this list of new beauty products on my wishlist is the newest launch from Auric. Like Merit, if you read my Auric reviews, you’ll know how much I loved the first two launches. I’ve been waiting for their next release, and I’m really excited it’s a lip treatment. I’m always on the hunt for the next best lip balm.

Other than the fact I will most likely try everything Auric releases, the formula in enhanced with ceramides and French lupin seed, which helps stimulate collagen synthesis to improve firmness and elasticity. And I can’t wait to have this on my nightstand.

I’m not going to lie, it’s been refreshing to not be lusting after everything brands are releasing. It’s let me get reacquainted with my collection, decide what trends/techniques I’m into at the moment, and save money! But there have been a few new beauty products on my wishlist, and while I’m not sure if I’ll purchase everything on this list, it’s nice to feel that excitement and temptation again.

Are their any new beauty products on your wishlist?

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/ Beauty

4 Ways to Use Coffee In Your Beauty Routine

cafe

If you know me at all, you know I’m a major coffee addict. And if you don’t know me, I am. My current apartment complex has a recycling bin (okay, Jac, where you going with this?), and because of that I’ve been paying a lot of attention to how much I throw away that can be reused. Every morning, I wake up a brew a pot of fuel, then I dump out the excess and toss the grounds in the trash. And then I got thinking: “Hey, how can I reuse this?” And naturally, I thought in my beauty routine.

Coffee is great for a lot of things. It wakes me up in the morning, yeah, but it’s full of free-radical fighting, youth-boosting, and skin-protecting antioxidants. The caffeine will boost blood flow, stimulate circulation, and wake up tired, dull skin. And the grounds work as an exfoliate to slough away dead skin cells, especially handy in the drier winter months.

When I make these recipes, I use the grounds from my coffee pot and left over coffee from the pot, but you can, of course, make fresh coffee or use un-brewed grounds. If you want to know how I incorporate my favorite beverage into my beauty routine, keep scrolling.

Caffeinated Eye Serum

This is going to perfect for puffy eyes and people like me who don’t get quite as much sleep as you should–so perfect for you moms, college students, and generally sleepy people. This should be refrigerated after making and will keep for about a week. It’s going to be really rejuvenating and hydrating thanks to that avocado and sweet almond oil.

Here’s what you need:

Here’s what you do:

  1. Pour enough sweet almond oil to cover and saturate the coffee grounds.
  2. Let sit for  hours or overnight.
  3. Pour over cheese cloth to separate solid grounds from liquid.
  4. Add avocado oil.
  5. Pour into serum bottle.

Caffeinated Eye Mask

This is going to be another treatment for puffy, tired eyes. The caffeine from the coffee will help combat tiredness, and the honey will moisturize under your eyes. I’d recommend leaving this in the fridge, and the cooling effect will also help with puffy eyes.

Here’s what you need:

  • Honey (raw is preferred)
  • Coffee grounds

Here’s what you do:

  1. Mix equal parts honey and coffee.
  2. Apply beneath your eyes and leave on for about 15-20 minutes.
  3. Rinse will damp cloth.

love-beans-caffeine-coffee

Energizing Body Scrub

I like to use this scrub in the mornings for a jolt of energy since it combines the caffeine from the coffee and the citrus oil will add an energizing feel as well. This is really easy to make and will hold covered in the fridge for a few days.

Here’s what you need:

Here’s what you do:

  1. Mix ingredients together.
  2. Apply to skin in circular motions.

Coffee Hair Rinse

This is something new I’ve been doing. I will wash and condition my hair as normal, but then I will pour cooled coffee over it, catching it with a container. Then I’ll repeat once or twice more. You’re literally rinsing your hair off with coffee. Then I generally clip my hair up while I finish my shower and rinse the coffee from my hair when I’m done.

Supposedly this will keep your hair from shedding, which I’m having a little issue with right now (TMI). I don’t know about that, but it makes your hair shiny and smelling good.

Here’s what you need:

  • 2-4 c. strong, black coffee (room temp.)

Here’s what you do:

  1. Pour over clean hair.
  2. Leave on for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Rinse.

These are the ways I’ve been reusing my coffee and incorporating it into my beauty routine. Side note: I also like pouring the grounds down the garbage disposal to combat any odor.

If you try any of these recipes out, let us know in the comments if you loved them as much as I do!

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/ Beauty, Beauty Reviews

Rare Beauty Review | A Month With Rare Beauty

rare beauty review

rare beauty review

Long before the world took a sharp, downward turn, earlier in 2020, Selena Gomez announced a special project we now know as Rare Beauty. And to be honest, I didn’t bat an eye. Seriously. I was so uninterested. Celebrity makeup lines are so commonplace, and most of them just aren’t intriguing to me. However, once promo shots and info started dropping for Rare Beauty, my attention was piqued. Much like Rihanna’s involvement with her beauty line, Fenty Beauty*, Gomez curated her brand from the studs, conceptualizing, formulating, and creating in a very hands on way. You can’t deny the packaging is ~v aesthetic~, but the more important question: do they live up to their claims? And the answer … Let’s just say I’m extremely interested in following the career of this brand. So let’s jump into my Rare Beauty Review.

I purchased these products right around launch, and while I was going to try to get my review out as soon as possible, I ultimately decided to linger a bit.

And I did that for a few reasons.

  1. Most of you, my audience, aren’t living in the beauty community space. You’re not necessarily creators, you’re real people. And you don’t buy every launch; you buy what you think is good. Which is why full, detailed, and tested reviews are key.
  2. I really wanted to gather my thoughts about the wearability of these products. I’ve been wishy washy about products lately, so I wanted to take my time with these goodies and really establish a relationship with them before I gave my thoughts.

But here we are, after a month with Rare Beauty, let’s see how they performed. I didn’t pick up the full line, but I did get an array of launches. So today we’ll be reviewing: the foundation, concealer, liquid blushes, matte liquid lipstick, and lip balm.

the basics

Founded in 2020 by Selena Gomez, Rare Beauty claims to offer easy-to-use, shade-inclusive products and serve as a brand to everyone. Gomez explained “the texture of [the] entire line is very flexible. You can move it around; I wanted everyone to find their perfect shade.” And I think she nailed that; you don’t have to be an artist to manipulate these products in a way that works for you.

the product

The line launched with foundation, concealer, liquid blush, lip balm, liquid lipstick, an eyeliner pen, blotting papers, a primer and setting mist, eye shadows, brow products, and tools. And the prices range from $14-$29.

The brand is also cruelty-free and vegan and available at Sephora.com* or Rare Beauty’s official website.

the packaging

I’m not going to lie; I thought the packaging of Rare Beauty was really juvenile and uninteresting at first glance. While the font still bores me (I don’t know what it is; I just don’t like it), the packaging itself has really grown on me. I like the soft matte feeling on the plastic packaging. And I enjoy the muted beige and gold accents.

One thing I really hated about the packaging at first was the rounded, ball tops on the caps. It just was unsettling for some reason. But after having the products in my hand, they don’t bother me at all. Plus, I believe I read somewhere that the tops were designed that way to be disability inclusive, making it easier to grip and open the lids (a struggle Gomez struggles with due to an ailment.)

the Rare Beauty Impact Fund

Aside from the product and modern packaging, I was sucked in by the philanthropy of it all. With the launch of Rare Beauty, Gomez also launched the Rare Beauty Impact Fund. With a fair price point, you can also feel good about every purchased knowing that it’s going toward a $100 million Gomez pledged to raise for mental health services over the next decade. She described her own experience:

I have struggled very openly about anxiety and depression and mental health. [But] the time time that I’ve taken for myself has actually just reflected in everything that I’ve been releasing. I don’t know if anyone can tell or cares but you can just see the amount of happiness that I have with what I’m given and what I’m blessed with.” – Selena Gomez

I love Rare Beauty, and really think a lot of you will too. Read below for my Rare Beauty review and favorite products from the brand!

No. 1 Liquid Touch Foundation

Rare Beauty Liquid Touch Foundation

The Liquid Touch Liquid Foundation* is available in 48 shades and retails for $29. Honestly, I think that is a really good price tag to attach to something like this.

If you like a thicker foundation in terms of consistency, you’re going to hate this. It’s a true liquid foundation. I immediately thought of the Bare Minerals Serum Foundation I used to love. Because this consistency is very similar to that of a serum or face oil but doesn’t compromise pigment or coverage. The brand launched a face sponge and foundation brush as part of its initial launch, but I prefer to apply this with my fingers. Though I do like it with a sponge and brush as well, in that order.

In my opinion, the coverage level is pretty customizable. A couple of small dots will give you a sheer, BB-cream like result, or you can build the coverage up to about a medium coverage. Initially, I thought this was going to be very Glossier Skin Tint*-esque, but I was wrong. It’s definitely not sheer. You can definitely see that you’re wearing makeup, but it doesn’t feel heavy or look cakey.

Hot take: This isn’t oil-free, so there’s going to be some degree of separation. Give the bottle a good shake before opening.

Which leads me to the finish. While it definitely looks like makeup on you skin, the finish is really natural looking. Applied as is, you get a blurred effect that’s almost matte but not quite. My favorite way to apply this is with something really luminous underneath like the VDL Lumilayer Primer or Glossier’s Future Dew for a really radiant and dewy finish.

Take away: I have been wearing this almost exclusively since I got it. My favorite way to wear it is applied with my fingers over a luminous primer or moisturizer. And, in my opinion, the less the better.

Rare Beauty Liquid Touch Weightless Foundation*, $29

No. 2 Liquid Touch Brightening Concealer

Rare Beauty Liquid Touch Brightening Concealer

Like the foundation, the concealer* comes in 48 shades with the same name as it’s foundation counterpart, making it super easy to find your shade. Generally your concealer will be slightly lighter than your foundation but the same in tone. So I bought 140C in both the foundation and concealer; however, if I did it again, I’d buy a slightly different shade in the concealer. I personally my concealer to be as close to my skin color as possible instead of lighter. Because I’m so fair, I just notice if I get anything that’s too light, it tends to look a little dry and just not good.

However, even with the slight shade discrepancy, I think this concealer is nice. I don’t love it. I don’t hate it. It’s really easy to blend, and I particularly like it with a damp beauty sponge. I find under the eyes, it sits well and doesn’t emphasize fine lines too much. It does a little, but honestly, what concealer doesn’t. And I find it lasts all dang day.

My qualm is that I don’t love it on the face. I am lazy, so I prefer a concealer that can spot conceal and look nice under the eye. I don’t find this one to be that effective for spot concealing. So if you’re looking for that, too, you may pass on this concealer.

And it’s just not as radiant as I’ve been into lately. That’s not to say I don’t like the finish. It’s just not my preferred finish at the moment.

Rare Beauty Liquid Touch Brightening Concealer*, $19

No. 3 Soft Pinch Liquid Blush

Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush_Love_Bliss

Honestly, I didn’t know how I’d get on with these, but I truly love them. The Soft Pinch Liquid Blushes* retail for $20 and come in 8 shades in 2 finishes:

  • Happy – dewy cool pink
  • Joy – dewy muted peach
  • Lucky – dewy hot pink
  • Grateful – dewy true red
  • Bliss – matte nude pink^
  • Love – matte terracotta^
  • Grace – matte bright rose mauve
  • Faith – matte deep berry

Soft Pinch is the most weightless, whipped blush formula I’ve personally tried. And the feeling it has while sliding across the skin is so soft and buttery and luxurious. I’ve seen some people describe these as being virtually foolproof, but I don’t know that I fully agree with that.

I think if you are a stranger to liquid blush, it may take just a little bit to familiarize yourself with Soft Pinch. It’s definitely a different experience than powders or creams. Its easy to go overboard at first. The first few times I used these, especially the shade Love, I used way too much. You need the tiniest, and I mean tiniest, amount of this to get a flush on your cheek. I prefer to blend these blushes out with my finger and do find that the formula blends onto the skin seamlessly that way. The color also lasts for hours.

Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush*, $20

^the shades I purchased

No. 4 Lip Soufflé Matte Cream Lipstick

Lip Souffle Matte Cream Lipstick_Brave

I’ve used a lot of matte liquid lipsticks, and so many of them claim to be a “velvety matte.” But the reality is a lot of them still end up drying out my lips and flaking off mid-day. These matte cream lipsticks go on so smooth; I saw someone compare them to brownie batter. And that’s honestly the best description. Smooth like brownie batter.

The formula is really similar to the blush formula. It’s a lightweight, whipped texture and glides on smooth while how drying down to a creamy, velvety matte finish. I will note, it doesn’t dry down completely, which I like. But if you’re looking for something that won’t transfer, this isn’t it.

Lip Soufflé* retails for $20 and comes in 12 shades:

  • Courage – nude mauve
  • Brave – muted terracotta^
  • Fearless – deep mauve rose
  • Thrilling – true brown
  • Motivate – watermelon pink
  • Inspire – bright red (Selena’s go-to)
  • Ascend – deep fuchsia
  • Energize – bright coral
  • Strengthen – dark coral red
  • Heroic – true berry
  • Transform – deep wine
  • Daring – muted lavender

Rare Beauty Lip Soufflé Matte Lip Cream*, $20

^shades I purchased

No. 5 With Gratitude Dewy Lip Balm

With Gratitude Dewy Lip Balm_Thankful

And the last product I picked up from the line is the With Gratitude Dewy Lip Balm*. If you combined your favorite lipstick with your favorite non-sticky lip balm, it’s this. The balm is lightweight but hydrating on the lip. And the color is pigmented but somehow offers very little transfer. I picked up the shade Thankful, which is a nude mauve, but the range offers 8 gorgeous shades:

  • Honor – clear
  • Praise – muted peach
  • Blessed – bright coral
  • Empathy – rose mauve
  • Thankful – nude mauve^
  • Appreciate – cool brown
  • Support – plum brown
  • Compliment – muted berry

Rare Beauty With Gratitude Dewy Lip Balm*, $16

the bottom line

I’m going to be watching the career of Rare Beauty with great interest. I’ve enjoyed the products I’ve tried. My standouts are definitely the foundation, lip balms, and liquid blushes. After the initial launch, the dropped a couple of eye shadow palettes. And while the color stories didn’t interest me much, the swatches look amazing. It’s definitely a brand on my radar for sure. And as the line grows, I’m sure there will be a Rare Beauty Review part 2.

Better late than never is my Rare Beauty review. Overall? I really am loving this brand, and I’m excited to see what else they come up with. Are you interested in anything from the brand?

Plus, Sephora has some really great sampler sets from the brand that I think would be great if you’re interested in trying the brand. I talked about two of them in this post.

The Lipstick Narratives

You may also be interested in these posts:

I only endorse products I genuinely love. If you end up buying something through my links, I may earn a -very small- affiliate commission. Learn more here.

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/div

/ Beauty, Unboxings

Allure Beauty Box Unboxing | April 2020

allure beauty box unboxing

If you read my SEPHORA recommendations post earlier this week, you’ll know your girl has been a dry, dehydrated mess lately. I explained that it’s partially from being shut inside the house and, let’s be honest, it’s partly from not drinking enough water. But regardless, my skin is struggling. Luckily this month’s Allure Beauty Box is all about hydrating solutions, and we’ve got everything from toners to to face masks, and other goodies.

[ m a k e u p ]

Thrive Causemetics Lip Liner in ‘Kackie’:++ I love receiving products in these boxes that I’ve already been eyeing for a while. I’ve yet to try anything from Thrive, but this liner was on my starting lineup. While a lot of liners can double as lipstick, this one is formulated to do both. The finish leans matte, but the lips aren’t supposed to be left dry due to the moisture rich ingredients of the formula.

I received the shade ‘Kackie,’ a taupe color, and think it’ll be great to pair under my browns and oranges.

Full size in box $20

++Your box contains Thrive Causemetics Lip Filler Long Wearing + Plumping Lip Liner in ‘Kackie’ OR ‘Valisia.’

[ s k i n c a r e ]

Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Color Correcting Treatment*: I’ve used a few products from this Cicapair line and have enjoyed them, so I’m excited to give this treatment lotion a go. It’s supposed to work as a tinted moisturizer, color corrector, and SPF all in one. The actual product has a noticeable green tint, but it blends out into a beige color that blends into the skin seamlessly. I have definitely found these green products to neutralize redness and blemishes, so I’m looking forward to trying this out.

Full size $52 ; Box value $5.20

Akar Skin Balance Toning Mist: I’m not familiar with this brand, but after trying to lip salve from last month’s box and loving it, I’m interested to explore the rest of the line.

This month, we received a balancing toner from Akar Skin. It’s made with soothing floral waters from rose and neroli and oil-wicking white willow bark extract. So not only will this hydrate and soothe, but it’s also going to slowly control oil production.

Full size $55 ; Box value $23

allure beauty box unboxing

Purlisse Matcha Green Tea Antioxidant Sheet Mask:++ I’ve stopped buying single use sheet masks and instead investing in potted masks; however, I won’t lie about loving getting them in boxes. They’re just so easy (not to mention the simple clean up). This one from Purlisse contains matcha, which delivers antioxidants to leave your skin dewy and hydrated.

Box value $8

++Your box contains Purlisse Watermelon Energizing Sheet Mask* OR Matcha Green Tea Antioxidant Sheet Mask.

LUE by Jean SEO Balance Hydrating & Calming Serum*: My skin loves hyaluronic acid. And if you’re someone with oilier skin, you will probably get on with this as well. This gel-like serum is formulated with the perfect concentration of sodium hyaluronate to ensure skin is hydrated and counters the effect of environmental stressors. I’m excited to try this one out!

Full (travel) size $15*

[ h a i r c a r e ]

Eva NYC Mane Magic 10-in-1 Primer*: You know how I feel about hair products in subscription boxes, so I’m just breezing through this one with the basics.

This is one of those products that is a little bit of everything–heat protectant, detangler, shine spray, cuts dry time, smoothing spray, etc. You know.

I may try this; I may not. But I’m not mad that this is in here. I feel like it’s a product a lot of people would get on with.

Full size $12 ; Box value $2*

[ f r a g r a n c e ]

Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb*: This is a fragrance I’ve used off an on for a few years. I love it. I’m not typically into sweet scents, but there’s something about this one I love. Top notes of jasmine, orange blossom, cattleya, and rose are grounded by vanilla and patchouli, and make for a delicious scent that has longer staying power than nearly anything I’ve worn before.

Wearing Flowerbomb always makes me feel sensual and flirty, and who doesn’t want to feel that way? I mean really.

Full size $115 for 1.7 oz. ; Box value $16.23*

Total Box Value:

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allure beauty box unboxing

Thrive Lip Pencil in Kackie, Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Treatment*, Akar Balance Toner, Purlisse Matcha Green Tea Mask, Lue Balance Serum, Eva NYC Hair Primer*, Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb*

I’m really pleased with this month’s Allure Beauty Box, overall. I’m excited to try out the balancing toner from Akar and serum from Lue. My eyes have been fixed on the Thrive liner in Kackie, and sheet masks are my guilty pleasure right now.

The Lipstick Narratives

I only endorse products I genuinely love. If you end up buying something through my links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more here.

*Indicates affiliate link.

Subscribe to Allure Beauty Box using my referral link and save $5 on your first box + receive a free welcome bonus gift Laura Mercier.