Beauty Bargains: Makeup Sales I Have to Share

I've been a naughty girl by giving my credit card a workout this past weekend.

Over the past few days, I've made a couple purchases and just HAD to share the great deals in case you're on the hunt for a few products yourself.

First, e.l.f. Cosmetics is having a MASSIVE blowout right now.   A lot of their beauty products are on sale for $0.49, $1.19 and $1.49.  In other words, it's a great time to stock up on a few items that you might have been wanting to try.  Here's a link to the sale items http://www.eyeslipsface.com/makeup/sale

Second, I made a purchase from BH Cosmetics and was able to capitalize on a Buy One Get One Free offer.  That was has expired BUT they've just posted a Free Shipping and Free Brush Set which is equally great.  Here's the link http://www.bhcosmetics.com/big-sale

I ordered a couple Mark and Avon items as well and Avon is having a big blowout of all their makeup, skincare, fragrances and hair products.  Seriously, have a look at all the great deals by clicking this link https://www.avon.com/category/outlet/makeup

Can't wait to share my big haul post with you all.  Have you seen any sales worth noting?  Anything I should pick up?


    

Red Lip Gloss' Blog Sale - First Ever!

*********Blog Sale is now finished!***********

I have way too much makeup.

As Allan and I have been cleaning out our bedrooms in preparation of painting and new carpets, I realize just how much I truly have.  Hence the need for a blog sale!!!

Before I show you all the goodies, here are a few instructions I have to get out of the way...
       1) This is open to all Canadian residents only
       2) Shipping costs (if applicable) will be added to your invoice
       3) You must pay your invoice in full by email transfer within 24 hours of receiving the invoice
       4) Email me with the items you'd like to purchase (cmwolthers@gmail.com)
       5) Once I've received your order, I will provide you with your invoice via email
       6) All sales are final once purchased
       7) If you need to see additional photos, send me an email and I will send to you personally

Whew, all the nitty-gritty is now out of the way, so get ready to shop to your heart's content!!

Matrix Total Results Sleek Shampoo, Conditioner and Serum (new) - $16
Dream Waves Conditioner and Lotion (new) - $7
Skin Envy Sugar Wax Strips and Spray Lotion (new) - $7

Christian Dior Velvet Eyes (like new) - $11

Bobbi Brown Denim and Rose Palette (new) - $17 SOLD

Biotherm Blue Therapy Moisturizer and Serum (new) - $12 SOLD

Younique Glorious Face Primer (used twice) - $10

Sleek Makeup i-Divine in Storm (new) - $5

Eos Rachel Roy Lip Trio (new) - $6
Dior Addict Gloss x 3 Colors (like new) - $10
Smashbox Lip Palette (slightly used) - $3

Bobbi Brown Crystal Eye Palette (new) - $11 SOLD

Bobbi Brown Brightening Finishing Powder (new) -$13 SOLD

Clinique Pretty in Prints Palette (like new) - $9 SOLD

Sephora Color Palette (new) - $11

Clinique Grab-Bag filled with lots of perfect travel items (new) - $8

Pixi Energy Blush in Golden Energy (new) - $4
ELF Studio Stipple Brush (new) - $1 SOLD
Sephora and Pantone Universe Blush (new) - $6
Annabelle Custom Quad Shadows (new) - $3

Marcelle Anti-Aging BB Cream (like new) - $7
Clinique Super City Block (new) - $7 SOLD

Sal and Jo's Mini Gloss Collection (new) - $6 SOLD
Badger Classic Lip Balm Sticks (new) - $3
Avon Eye Shadow Trio (like new) - $1
Mark Custom Eye Shadow Duo (new) - $1

Bobbi Brown Sheer Lip Color in Pink Gold (new) - $8 SOLD
Smashbox Lipstick in Rasberry Kreme (new) - $6
Make Up For Ever Rouge Artist Natural in N52 (new) - $6
MAC Lipstick in Creme Cup (Kim Kardashianès FAVORITE nude color - like new) - $4 SOLD
Victoria Secret Perfect Lipstick (new) - $3
Avon Lipstick (new) - $1

Happy shopping, ladies, and thanks for your purchases and support!!!

   

The Top 3 Budget Mascaras

Photo found here

Mascara is one beauty product that I can't live without.  Honestly, I've tried.

About 7 years ago I had laser eye surgery and part of the healing process was no eye makeup for 6 months.  Waking up everyday and not wearing eye makeup was the hardest thing, ever, because I felt naked.  After those 6 long months passed, I got back on the mascara horse and have never looked back.

I don't know about you but there are quite a few things I require from a potential mascara and if it doesn't deliver, I move on to a different type/brand very quickly.  I need my lashes to be volumized, the mascara formula needs to be non-clumpy, a brush that separates the lashes AND lengthens them all the while not breaking the bank.  Here are my top three budget-friendly picks that meet my extensive must-have list...

Photo found here

1. Maybelline Great Lash Blackest Black Mascara (Curved Brush)

I wrote a REVIEW about this mascara before and, since then, have incorporated it into my daily beauty routine.  This mascara separates lashes, lengthens, volumizes AND doesn't clump.  Such a bargain at only $7.

Photo found here

2. Rimmel London Lash Accelerator Mascara in Extreme Black

I also reviewed this mascara HERE quite sometime ago and nothing's changed since then... I still adore it.  I use this product every morning as my first two coats.  I love this mascara because it lengthens my lashes extremely well and doesn't leave any added build-up.  The only issue I have with this mascara is that it doesn't fully coat the lashes in one stroke.  (You have to double-dip the wand in the container.)  Aside from that, every couple months I have no problem paying $8.99 for this mascara.

Photo found here

3. Avon SuperSHOCK Mascara in Black 

This mascara has surprised me the most.  First, I never usually like abnormally large brushes (and this brush is HUGE) but for some reason it works extremely well.  Also, it's one of the most volumizing mascaras I've used in quite some time.  The only downfall is that it can be a bit clumpy if you're using more than two coats.  Either way, it's a steal for $4.99

Have any of you ladies tried these mascaras before?  What are your thoughts?

Fall 2011 Favorites: Lipstick!

Lipstick makes me happier than ribs slathered in my favorite BBQ sauce.  Honestly, I'm just sayin'.  As scrumptious as ribs (or any BBQ food) are there is a certain je ne sais quoi about a fabulous colored lipstick.  Well, for me anyway.  It adds a bounce to my step and can sometimes make me feel fabulous even on the worst day.  With that in mind, here's a list of my favorite lipsticks that completed my looks this fall:

Maybelline Fifth Ave. Fuchsia #160

I'm swooning just looking at this picture.  There is nothing sexier than rocking a fabulous fuchsia lip with some killer over-the-knee boots.  Honestly, this was my staple color for about three weeks.  I love this one by Maybelline because the color lasts a long time, the smudging is minimal and the actual color of the lipstick is divine. 

Bite Beauty Luminous Creme Lipstick in Bouquet

I love the Bite line because it has an all-natural ingredient list.  Plus it's jam-packed with antioxidants that leave your lips smooth and moisturized.  This color is one I wear to the office a lot because of the sunny pink tone.  It's not too overwhelming as a color but gives your lips a nice pop color. I highly recommend this color and product line.

Avon Ultra Color Rich Lipstick in Berry, Berry Nice

I bought this by accident.  I thought I ordered a wine color but instead received a bright red berry tone which has actually taken the place as my favorite red over Youngblood's Crimson.  (I know, shocking.)  Either way, this color suits my skin tone to a tee because it's blue-based.  I have honestly been on the hunt for a blue-based berry red for so long and it's crazy to think I found it for under $4.  This lipstick is rich in color, wears well, doesn't smudge too much and looks great on.  I do wish that the color would last a bit longer on my lips though.

Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Love That Pink #435

I find the name of this color funny because, once on, it almost looks a bit orange.  Either way, this color is on the list for a reason.  I apply this color a couple times first thing in the morning and the color lasts all day, even through lunch.  I love the feel of it on my lips and my lips obviously love it since they stay moisturized all day.  Plus, it was on sale and I bought it for only $3.99...such a steal.

I should probably mention that I use a nude/natural lip liner with all my lipsticks, not a colored one.  I like nude lip liners because they hold the color of your lipstick in place and don't leave a horrible line around your lips when your lipstick fades.  My go-to is Rimmel London's 1000 Kisses Lip Liner in Natural.  I definitely recommend it if you're on the hunt for a bargain.

What are your favorite lipsticks for fall?  Have you tried any of these before?

PS - It's time for another Wedding Wednesday Post so check it out at www.rubyna.com

My New HG Hair Oil: FOUND!!

For me to want to blog about a hair product it has to be either two things: One, absolutely terrible that I need to warn people not to use it or two, absolutely freakin amazing (which doesn't happen too often.)  I am please to say that this one is the latter.

Oh, and I should probably say right now that it's an Avon product or else you won't believe me.  (yes, you heard me right....AVON!!)  The product is called Advance Techniques Daily Results Anti-Frizz Capsules.

For the past few years, I've been an advocate of Aargan Oil and/or Moroccan Oil as a hair product.  Since my hair is extremely thick and frizzy, I need quite a dallop of either of these to tame my horrible hair mess and make it manageable.  Now, those that use either of these products know that they're quite expensive and, though they work quite well, are not good for the diva trying to save some pennies.  Plus, since I'm growing my hair out into the fabulous banged bob, I need more products than normal so, needless to say, I've been trying to find less expensive alternatives.  I was given the Advance Techniques Capsules as a free gift and used one randomly last week.  The results were amazing!

Advance Techniques Daily Results Anti-Frizz Capsules

Pros:

Only cost about $8 compared to Moroccan oil which is about $22

Come in pliable capsule form for easy access

Capsules are easy to use and reduce waste of product

Hair becomes extremely shiny

Hair is much more manageable and way less frizzy

Can be used on both dry and wet hair

When used on wet hair, makes blowdrying less damaging

Less blowdry time if used on wet hair

Can be used prior to shampooing as a shine treatment (for thin hair)

One capsule is perfect amount for thick hair but for thin hair you can get about three uses per capsule

Hair is not weighed down like with some oil/serum treatments

Hair condition looks and feels better with continued use

Best for colored, dry, over-processed hair

Cons:

Again, has to be ordered either online or through an Avon rep

Only 16 capsules per container

Never have I ever been so impressed with an inexpensive product as I am with the Advanced Techniques.  I use this every second day (on my hair wash days) and always apply it right before I blow dry.  I have noticed that my hair is getting much softer and feels less brittle/over-processed.  I have already put in an order for three more jars!!!

Have any of you tried this product before?  What are your thoughts?

XO Christina

The Skinny on Blushes: What Types and What Work!

Blush is slowly becoming one of my favorite beauty products.  Being as pasty pale as I am normally, blush gives me the color I am so lacking.  Plus, when put on properly, it adds so much to the angles of your face.  Honestly, you can have model-worthy cheekbones with the perfect pink tone.  Oh, I should also mention, you can also create drool-worthy cleavage with a good blush too.  (Hey, I do what I have to....ha.)

Thanks to my pal over at Vintage Makeup who, after reading my Skinny on Concealers post, kindly suggested I do a similar blush post and I am soooo glad she did  (thanks so much lady!!).  I may not be a professional makeup artist BUT man, do I know a lot about blushes.  (Some good and some bad.)  So, for those that aren't aware, there are four different types of blushes: loose powder, pressed powder, cream, liquid (aka gel, in some areas) and pencils/stick.  (Of course, if you count highlighters and bronzers there'd be seven but, to me, these aren't blushes.).  All five are designed to give your cheeks that perfect warm hue but some do the job better than others.  Here's a list of my personal faves, broken down by type:

Loose Powder Blush: Avon Smooth Minerals Blush

It's no surprise that I am a huge fan of Avon products.  Their products are actually really great and no where else can you find a mineral blush for under $12.  It's unbelievable!!  This blush is great because it goes on smooth, doesn't make your skin oily and is very long lasting.

Pros:

Inexpensive

Long-lasting

Colors are all nice and subtle

Doesn't cause your skin to become greasy or oily

Cons:

Must be ordered either online or through an Avon rep

Pressed Powder: Illamasqua Powder Blush

So, this was a toss up for me.  When I think powder blush, I would always say NARS with no hesitation.  However, my allegiance seems to have changed since trying this brand.  Illamasqua makes a FABULOUS powder blush.  For the money, the blush colors are extremely pigmented and they feel virtually weightless on your cheeks.  Another thing is that they last a long time, both on your skin and in the palette.  Trust me when I say a little goes a long way.

Pros:

Fantastic colors (Hussy is my FAVE)

Extremely pigmented

Long-lasting on your skin

Virtually weightless 

Glides on very smooth 

Very blendable

Cons:

Price could be a factor for some

Not available in Canada (well, not in Vancouver, anyway)

Cream Blush: Estee Lauder Signature Satin Cream Blush

It still surprises me that I've yet to RAVE about this product in a post.  Seriously, for years this was my go-to blush.  Does it help that my mom worked with Estee Lauder, oh probably, but seriously, this blush glides on sooo smooth and doesn't settle in your lines or skin imperfections.  Plus, it's not overly creamy.  By this I mean there is no stickiness once it's on your skin.  

Pros:

Amazing price for the quality

Long lasting on your skin

Doesn't settle in pores so it makes skin look younger

Intense color so a little goes a long way

Doesn't make your skin oily so though it's made for drier skin, can work on anyone

Cons:

Not enough colors 

Liquid Blush: Benefit Posie Tint Cheek Stain

How I lived as long as I have without this product still amazes me.  I first discovered Benefit High Beam and, after I realized how great it was, I branched out to other products.  Like the Posie Tint for example.  This liquid dries in an instant and adds a sheer pink tint to your cheeks (or lips).  Best part of this blush is how long it lasts.  Seriously, I apply this in the morning and when I take it off at night (some 14 hours later) it still looks fabulous.  

Pros:

Water resistent

Extremely long lasting

Very dramatic color

Easily applied (even if you're not a blush pro)

Dries instantly

Looks very natural

Cons:

Should you use too much, it can stain your fingers a little

Can be hard to spread if you apply too much 

Stick Blush: Joe Fresh Style Cheek Tint

Did you know that this blush stick is only $4...YES, I know.  $4!!!  Hence why this had to appear on my faves list.  Not only is the price good, but the product is remarkably good too.  The colors are very pigmented and they are very easy to bend into the skin.

Pros:

Easy to apply

Can be used on lips as well

Doesn't make skin oily 

Have a wide range of colors

Cons:

Can be sticky when applying

Cheap quality (you get what you pay for)

Blushes (like everything else) are a very personal choice and what might work for me may not work for you.  I highly suggest trying out all the different types of blushes and find the one that works best for you.  I will say that with all the different types and brands out there, you're bound to find your go-to product!

XO

My Newest Nail Polish Haul

When I decide to buy a new cosmetic, I can never just buy one.  Seriously, it's a big issue.

Take my latest nail polish haul, for example.  I was going through my polish collection and realized I didn't have a mint green/blue color.  So, I went to the drugstore and picked up a mint color AND a fuscia purple color.  Then, I went to Superstore to look at the Joe Fresh product line and bought three more nail polishes.  After that, I came home and bought three new Avon polishes.  Needless to say, I bought eight polishes instead of the intended one.  And the worst part is, because I'm crap at painting my own nails, I don't even end up using them as often as I should.  But honestly, these colors are so gorgeous that I couldn't pass them up:

GOSH Cosmetics is such a fantastic cosmetic line.  And I am happy to say that their polishes are really great too!  (The pink one has been on my toes for the past week.)  From left to right the colors are Miss Minty and Flamingo.  By the way, they were on sale for $7 a piece which I think is an absolute steal.

Here are the Avon polishes.  From left to right the colors are Mambo Melon, Cotton Candy and Sunshine.  I haven't used any of these polishes yet but can't wait to paint my nails that pretty coral color.  Plus, they were a steal at 3 for $6.99.

Can I just say that the Joe Fresh polishes are definitely some of my faves.  I can't get over how bright and cheerful the colors are!   From left to right the colors are Pineapple, Cobalt and Papaya.  These polishes were on special at 3 for $10.

As you can see, I chose Cotton Candy for my nails today.  I love the pink color, as it's not overbearing, but still seems to go with every outfit.

What has been your recent favorite nail polish color? 

XO

Treat Your Face to a Chemical Peel: From Home

Aside from eyeshadow, skin care products are, without a doubt my favorite item.  There is something so rewarding about finding a product that not only does what it's designed to do but makes your skin feel fantastic.  The only downside to finding new skin care product that works is the research time.  I am probably the most impatient person (in the world) and hate having to stick to products for a few weeks before being able to blog about them and these two products are no different.  As soon as I started using them, I wanted to shout to everyone how great they are but, I stuck to my guns, waited a couple weeks and am ready to burst.  The two products I'm talking about are Avon Anew Clinical Advanced Retexturizing Peel and DHC Coenzyme Q10 Cream.  

Never have I been more excited to try a product than I was with this new item from the Avon Anew Clinical line.  It claims to "safely peel away dullness, reduce signs of aging and help your skin to self-neutralize...all in one step".  Let me tell you that even from the first application, I was BLOWN AWAY: My skin felt extremely smooth, the texture was beginning to brighten and the faint lines on my forehead weren't apparent at all.  Since that first treatment (I've had about 5 now), my skin looks more radiant and my pores seem to be less clogged.  This is one of the best purchases I've ever made....

Pros:

Price is really good (about $25)

Helps to brighten skin tone

Makes skin more radiant

Only used once every two days 

Easy to use pad comes pre-saturated with product

Unclogs pores

Skin appears much more youthful as it seems to diminish lines

Texture of skin greatly improves

Rough skin patches no longer present

Cons:

Must be ordered through an Avon rep

I received quite a few samples from DHC and about three of them were of this bad boy.  I instantly liked the texture of the cream and loved that it didn't make my skin feel oily or slick.  I ordered the moisturizer shortly after that and haven't looked back since.  I love this cream because it resembles my favorite Lancome cream without the hefty price tag.  DHC is known for their use of olive oil and this cream not only has that as an ingredient BUT also packs the "Vitamin Q" which is a powerful antioxidant and makes your skin more radiant and youthful looking.  The best part of this cream is that a little goes a long way so though the container is small, it's definitely going to last me a long time.

Pros:

$47 is a great price for an anti-aging cream

Packs all the benefits of more expensive product lines

Lasting moisture without being too oily 

Can be used as both a night and day cream

Skin is smoother and much more radiant looking 

Can be shipped to Canadian residents 

Cons: 

Can only be ordered online

These past couple weeks (while using these products) have really impacted my skin in a good way.  I am breaking out less and my skin feels smooth and soft which hasn't really happened before.  My skin just finally feels like it's under control.....finally.  If you're on the hunt for a skin treatment, I highly recommend you try the Avon Anew Clinical line and, in particular, this retexturizing peel.  It works wonders.  Plus, DHC has many many many different skin care lines.  I firmly believe in their products and though the Q10 cream might not be for you, have a look and see if there might be something up your alley.

XO

What's Your Face Worth?

As I was putting my makeup on this morning, I got to thinking about money. Now, this is a regular occurrence for me (as Allan and I have some big things coming up next year that we’re saving for) but for some reason today seemed like a great idea to find out my face’s worth. (Ha, that sounds funny.) So, here’s what I used to create my look today AND their prices…

                                  Dior DiorSkin Forever Extreme Wear Flawless Makeup
                                                           SPF 25 in Ivory - $55

Youngblood Ultimate Concealer in Light - $25

Clinique Superpowder Double Face Makeup in Matte Bisque - $25

Gosh Big Sun Powder Bronzer - $25

NARS Blush in Super Orgasm - $29

Avon 12-in-1 Eye Palette (Beige and Gold applied) - $17.99

SMASHBOX Cream Liner Palette - $24 (At the duty free)

Rimmel London Lash Accelerator Mascara - $9.99

Illamasqua Lipstick in Over - $22 (Bought in the USA)

So, all together, to purchase this look the total is $182.98. To be honest, I actually expected this to be quite a bit more SO I’m back to being a happy girl….Ha

I would love to see other posts like this if you care to partake. Let me know if you do!!

XO