Naked Honey

I am so excited for this collection to come out.  It is so different from any previous collection in the last few years and there is even a body product.  Plus 2 new perfumes. The graphics are such amazing works of art and the descriptions make everything sound so yummy!  I really think I want everything from this collection.  Better start saving now!

Keep it Pretty,

Erin

M.A.C Cosmetics - Naked Honey Collection June '09

Introducing our limited edition Naked Honey collection – three aspects of golden warmth and sun-made sweetness for the body, layered with two decidedly different honeycomb-derived fragrances – celebrating the secret lives of Queen Bees. Complementary shades of High-Light Powder, Eye Shadow and Lipglass are all the buzz for summer.

Lipglass (LE) - $14.00USD/$16.50CDN

She’s a Star - Light neutral gold (Repromote from Dress Camp)

Queen Bee - Mid-tone apricot with multi-dimensional pearl

Buzz - Dark copper brown with multi-dimensional pearl

Eyeshadow (LE) - $14.50USD/$17.00CDN

Crème de Miel - Frosty light yellow gold

Pollinator - Mid-tone warm reddened peach with pearl

Buckwheat - Dark copper brown with multi-dimensional pearl

High-Light Powder (LE) $24.50USD/$29.50CDN

A highlight powder specially created for the Naked Honey Collection. Features an embossed honeycomb pattern. Super fine, impeccably pearlized, it creates soft highlights. On cheeks, brows, shoulders–anywhere on the body.

Honey Light - A light peachy gold with shimmer

Golden Nectar - Muted golden tan with gold shimmer

Naked Honey Salve (LE) $18.50USD/$22.50CDN
Formulated from honey , organic beeswax, sunflower oil and other natural ingredients, this rich honey–scented and flavoured salve instantly moisturizes and helps recondition dry skin. Multi-purpose . Use everywhere.

Naked Honey Hand and Body Cream (LE) -$22.50USD/$27.00CDN
A sensuous cream made from bio-converted honey, shea butter, and vitamins C and E derivatives. Absorbs quickly for skin-softening moisture. Conditions, nourishes, protects. Use on all areas where ultra-moisture is called for.

Naked Honey Body Wash (LE) - $19.50USD/$23.50CDN
Formulated from bio-converted honey, this body wash cleanses the skin while providing the soothing and moisturizing benefits of lavender, narcissus, jasmine flower and blue agave extracts. Provides a sensual, calming, cleansing experience.

Creations Fragrance: Naked Honey (LE) -$22.50USD/$28.5CDN
An aromatic journey that traces honey’s fragrant heart back to summer’s sweetest blooms. Energy starts to buzz, spirits soar, light floral and woodsy notes float toward an electric finale. Sweet and sexy all the way.

Creations Fragrance: Africanimal (LE) - $22.50USD/$28.50CDN
A scent that starts with a honey-ness that’s seductive and given its dash of pepper, not without spice. Add a dark kiss of bergamot and wood, and an aromatic orgy breaks out to create a scent that's all-honey, but far from sweet. 

Content courtesy of Specktra.net

and Pursebuzz.com

Image Credit: Kissandmakeup.tv & Pursebuzz.com

Clarins Skin Care

As some of you know, I work in the mall. I am the counter manager for Benefit Cosmetics in Macy's and my counter is directly across from Clarins. While I love my brand and the cosmetics, I've still always longed to use Clarins skin care (shh don't tell anyone). I grew up watching my mother use her Clarins face wash and toner, and as a teen I would sneak in her bathroom and use her products. I have always loved the fresh smell and clean feeling I got when I used them. After I left home I got into a rut of using drugstore products to cleanse, tone and moisturize my face, such as Oil of Olay, Clean and Clear among others. Un-aware of my skin type and low on cash I was constantly trying out new things from the local supermarket or drugstore that was not making my skin happy. So, I spent my former 20's in an uneducated skin care fog. Now that has changed!

While at work the other day a Clarins skin care advisor came to set up in front of the counter for what they call "Skin Clinic". It is basically a mini room they make out of tall, wide Clarins signs in the mall with a reclining chair, backbar size product filled cart, and spa music, complete with a Skin Care Specialist. The point is for current Clarins customers to come in and get a "mini" facial (less steam, extractions etc. included in a real facial) or for potential customers to try out the products. The "mini" facial consists of cleansing, toning, moisturizing, masking, eye creaming, sun screening and more. It is basically a product orgy on your face so you can try everything, then buy. After the 20 minute "mini" facial the Skin Care Specialist shows you all the products she used so you can pick what to purchase.

The first appointment that day showed up and I watched as she received her facial. I was so jealous as I really wanted to relax and I could smell the products all the way over at my counter. It looked wonderful. Plus, the specialist really explained how to use everything and what each product was for so you really learned a lot. I knew I had to get my "mini" facial that day, plus, I really was in desperate need of new skin care anyway so I knew it was the perfect time.

My friend who works at the counter put me in a cancelled appointment slot that fell on my lunch break (how lucky!) and I was so excited. I waited and waited and finally it was my turn. The facial was very relaxing and informative, and the hand techniques she used felt really nice and soothing. It was not as good as a traditional facial, and I missed some of the steps, but it was free, in the mall, and I really just wanted to know what products to buy anyway. I ended up learning I had normal skin with the occasional breakout, and I needed some moisture and exfoliation in my life. She used most of the Clarins HydraQuench line including the mask which is great for long lasting moisture. As for the cleanser she used the Cleansing Milk w/Alpine and Toner sans alcohol w/Chamomile. The specialist also used the HydraQuench cream on me which was nice but I felt it was a little heavy for summer so that's why I got the lotion instead. I bought both the Cleansing Milk and Toner, as well as the HydraQuench lotion with SPF 15, and the BrightPlus Gentle Exfoliator. Just my luck they were also having a buy 2 product promo so I got 2 free mini kits with my purchase. I picked the HydraQuench pack (which included travel sizes of the eye makeup remover, cleansing milk, HydraQuench cream, and serum) and the Firming pack (travel size firming neck cream, serum, cleansing melt and firming day cream). So now I have a lot of other products to try, it was such a good deal!

I am so happy with my purchase and I am excited to finally have a great skin care system. I also feel like such an adult, using real skin care products instead of picking it up at the drugstore. It is a little more pricey but I really feel you get what you pay for regarding skin care products. Good ingredients cost more. Call your local Clarins counter and see when the next skin care clinic is at your mall!

Keep it Pretty,
Erin

B. Makowsky - Handbag Heaven

My absolute shopping obsession is handbags. I love all shapes and sizes, colors and fabrics, I don't discriminate. I have recently found this semi new handbag designer, B. Makowsky. He is husband to famed handbag designer Kathy Van Zeeland, but has a totally different flair and flavor.

B. Makowsky handbags are simplistic and rugged, while staying feminine and trendy. They are adorned with beautiful gold or silver hardware, and have crazy patterns or zippers. The inside of the purse is lined with a leopard silk type of fabric, really giving you something to look at each time you open the bag. There are also plenty of pockets inside which is great for your cell phone, wallet etc. Each B. Makowsky bag is made of soft, buttery leather that softens even more with time and they are practical in size, often big enough for everything AND the kitchen sink. However, they do have smaller bags too, they just are not my style.

My favorite bag is the Jakarta style, which comes in an E/W tote or N/S shopper. I happen to have both, one in Vachetta (Tan) and the other in Black. I really didn't mind spending the money because the bags are such amazing quality and the styles are so classic and minimal it will be chic for many years to come. Plus, I am so tired of the other "mainstream" brands such as Coach, Dooney and Burke, even Louis Vuitton. To me it takes away the special feeling of owning a designer handbag when you can find everyone in the mall carrying the same bag. Another reason I love B. Makowsky, is because he is still virtually unknown to most people so you do not see his bags everywhere. Every time I am out I get a ton of compliments on my bag instead of the same, "Oh my sister has that." or "My best friends best friend just got her friend that same purse." Haha, I like having my own unique style!

If you are looking for a good, solid, quality handbag, for a moderate price please check out B. Makowsky at your local Nordstrom, Macy's or even the Internet. I promise you will love it. Prices range from $180 to $350.

Keep it Pretty,
Erin

Cosmedicine Eye Specialist

I recently received a sample of Cosmedicine's Eye Specialist eye cream. The reviews on the Internet have been nothing but positive and is supposed to be one of the best eye creams on the market.

Here is some info right from the Cosmedicine website...

Eye Specialist Essential Moisture Treatment

Eye Specialist moisture treatment is a luxurious, hydrating eye cream & treatment that dramatically reduces dark circles over time. Our Eye Specialist moisture treatment delivers hydration right to the fragile skin under your eyes, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Eye Specialist Essential Moisture Treatment is the no BS under eye moisture treatment.

This luxurious under-eye treatment cream provides deep hydration to revitalize fragile skin and create younger looking and feeling eyes. .5 fl. oz.

Features/Benefits:

• Delivers intense hydration to the fragile skin around the eyes
• Lightens and brightens dark under-eye circles
• Promotes collagen synthesis to firm and tighten skin around the eyes
• Softens the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

Measurable Results - Clinical Trials Found:

• 85% reduction in skin dryness
• 52% increase in hydration
• 49% reduction in under eye darkness

Application Tips:

• Using ring finger and gentle patting motion, apply to entire eye area A.M. and P.M.
• May also used on eyelids

As you can see this eye cream has many benefits and claims to clear almost any under eye problems you might have. I started using the Cosmedicine Eye Specialist about 2 weeks ago and have begun to see a difference in the skin texture under my eye as well as around it, my beginners crow's feet seem to be softening. Also my under eye circles do seem a bit brighter. I also like how the cream is heavy and creamy but light enough to sink in and not feel greasy. It really moisturizes and lasts a long time, a little goes a long way. So far I really like this eye cream and feel like it is doing it's job.



I will update again in a few months with some before and after pictures so we can see if this eye cream really makes a difference. Try it yourself, although it is a bit pricey, around $45 for .5oz. However if it works for you, you can't put a price on rested eyes!

Keep it Pretty,
Erin

Beauty Blender Review, Finally!

I finally received my Beauty Blender in the mail and I was so excited when I saw that package on my door step! When I was purchasing the blenders I decided on the 2 sponge with cleanser package for $39.95. However, I ordered them on Drugstore.com with a $5.00 off coupon, free shipping and 5% discount on beauty products so my total with shipping was $30 and change. Great deal! Anyway, when I got the package inside my house I ripped it open, tore out the clear, round container and got to my sponges. This is what I found...



I had to try the blender out asap. I took one of the sponges out of the package and noticed it was a lot smaller than I was expecting. About 2-3" high, and inch around. It was firm and really felt like a good quality sponge. While giving it a good rinse before trying it out, the sponge grew to about twice it's size! Then I rang out all the water until the sponge was just a bit damp and dipped it into my foundation. (I like to pour the foundation onto a little palette or in a pinch you can use the back of an eyelash box or the back of your hand). To apply the makeup you take the fat bottom part, dip it in the makeup (cream, powder, or liquid) holding it by the pointed top, and stipple, or "bounce" the sponge all around your face. The sponge is a perfect teardrop shape. You could also use the sponge the other way, using the tip for spot treatments or to cover up smaller places or areas. The sponge picked up a bit of product but not too much and I began stippling it over my face. I ended up with a flawless and perfectly blended airbrushed look. Not too heavy, or to sheer just perfect. The foundation I used was MAC Cosmetics Studio Fix Fluid in NW20.



I really felt like the sponge did it's job. It was easy to use, didn't waste any product and gave my face and amazing appearance. It also was a fast way of putting on my foundation, much quicker and smoother than a brush in my opinion. You could also use this for cream blush or anything else for that matter. After you use it, you place it on the cleanser, dispense the cleanser on the sponge and then rinse. It rinses well and the cleanser smells really good. I always set my sponge on the top of the cleanser bottle to dry as it has a little built in pedestal for your sponge.

Overall I really feel like the money is worth it for the sponge and cleanser, especially if you find a great deal online like I did, just look around for coupons. I'm really glad I got the 2 sponge package so I have one for my makeup kit. I can't wait to test it out on a client and see the finish it produces in photos. Plus, I can imagine I'll get a good laugh when I pull out this bright pink egg shaped sponge from my kit. The only thing I would change is that I would make the sponge a bit bigger and I would lower the price. I hope the company at least gives discounts for makeup artists or for buying in bulk because I would love to have this as a staple in my kit, but fear it might be too expensive to keep up with. I'm going to test it out and see how it works and how long it lasts.

However, for personal use, I think it is perfect and I really think as long as you take care of it, it should last a lot longer than 3 months. Highly recommended and please let me know your thoughts/feelings about the Beauty Blender.

Keep it Pretty,
Erin

Laura Geller - New tinted Spackle!

Laura Geller started her career in the industry as a celebrity makeup artist. She has been educating woman about makeup for over 25 years and decided to create her own signature line of easy to use products. Laura has become known for her "baked" makeup but the line includes everything from primers, to foundations, eyeshadow, to lipgloss and much more.

The Laura Geller collection of beauty products have been growing in popularity and most of the products can be found in places like Sephora, QVC or on her own website laurageller(dot)com. One of her best selling products, Spackle, has a cult like following as it not only creates a smooth, silky surface for foundation, it also fills in any lines and wrinkles and locks makeup in place so you can rest assured your makeup will look fresh morning till night. The best part is that it is oil free, and contains many minerals and vitamins to promote healthy skin.

Spackle now comes in two forms, the regular translucent color, and a tinted, shimmery bronze that is absolutely stunning especially for the upcoming summer months. It is very sheer, just giving you a hint of color and fabulous glow. I like to wash my face in the morning, moisturize and then put on my Spackle (either with my fingers or a squirt to the back of my hand, then using a foundation brush to smooth it over my face), followed by the foundation of choice that day. It works under any foundation, powder, liquid or cream. The tinted Spackle alone is so beautiful you could go sans makeup and look gorgeous. It also has a hint of shimmer which helps deflect light and give your skin this dewy, luminous look. I have to say this is by far the best makeup primer I have ever used and I love the new bronze color option.

This makeup staple works for every skin type, tone and texture. It is used by makeup artists everywhere (myself included) and it is simple enough for any woman to include in her beauty regimen on a daily basis. It also comes in eye and lip versions so you can Spackle your whole face! Plus, you can't beat the price, $23 for 2oz. in a convenient pump style bottle.



I give Laura Geller's Spackle Tinted under Makeup Primer 5 out of 5 stars!

Keep it Pretty,
Erin

Dear Blog....

Dear Blog,
I know I have been neglecting you, but it is so hard for me to find time to blog these days. Between starting a new job, keeping my business running and tons of personal stuff, I just never seem to be able to fit you in. However, I am also transitioning you right now, from blogger to wordpress to make you a little more special and user friendly.  I just purchased my new domain name prettyinmakeup.com so it's official. I will be blogging again more frequently and we will have a new look and feel.  It is very exciting!

Love Always,

Erin

On another note:

If anyone has experience, good or bad with either blog hosting site, I would appreciate the feedback, here or by email, erinchado@gmail(dot)com.  

Also, my favorite beauty PR firm, bluesky, based in NYC has just sent some goodies for me to review.  Included are some amazing baked items from Laura Geller, Cosmedicine eye cream, Per-fekt skin perfecting gel and a bunch of other cool stuff.  I will be using these products all week and will start my review on each product by next week.  

Good News! I have received my BeautyBlenders and cleanser!  Look for this review in a few days once I get the blog situation finalized at our new home.  Hint. Hint it's worth the money!

Lastly, in honour of the impending summer months, I will be holding a contest, 2 actually, one for a Laura Geller goody, and one for a Cosmedicine eye cream!  Stay tuned for details!!!

Keep it Pretty,

Erin