BEAUTY FILE: KERASTASE RESISTANCE HAIR MASK

I am floored. By a hair product. The Kerastase Resistance Masque is the stuff hair dreams are made of.

This is a hair mask, so I guess it's supposed to be reserved for those days where you're feeling indulgent but, I use it every time that I wash my hair.  I have been a fan of the Kerastase line since my high school days (you don't want to know how long ago that was.). For about the last 4 years I'd used the Reflections line and mask.  The Kerastase Reflection mask worked really well, made my hair soft and frizz free but was very strongly scented.  I dealt with the fragrance issue because it worked so well.   I thought it was my favorite Kerastase product until this gem.

The Kerastase Resistance Mask came into my life and when I first used it, it literally changed my hair texture - after one application.  My hair became really soft and smooth.   It works wonders, even in this Miami heat and humidity.  It's a little hair miracle, without the heavy fragrance.  You can get it at Ulta, Sephora but also sold at drugstores - my local CVS carries it. 

Buy it.

Disclosure: I was not paid to write about this product; every now and then, Kerastase shows me some love and mails me some products. xx

WANDER BEAUTY NEW FALL COLLECTION

If you've followed me for a while you know that Wander Beauty is one of my favorite makeup brands. They sent over some items from their new Fall collection so that I could test. The felt tip liner (High Line) is super precise - love! The Wanderess Rush eyeshadow palette has really creamy shades (both shimmers and mattes) that blend out well. I have it swatched below.

BEST FACIAL IN MIAMI- CAUDALIE, BRICKELL CITY CENTRE

I recently visited the Caudalie boutique at Brickell City Centre in Miami. The boutique, located on the second floor near Zara, has a quiet and zen treatment room.  The spa offers facials and body treatments by trained estheticians who exclusively use Caudalie products. This is an honest review of my experience getting what I consider to be one of the best facials in Miami. 

WANDER BEAUTY

Wander Beauty's On The Glow Blush and Illuminator duo. A two-in-one product that's easy to travel with.
The shell is part of the Sunday Forever Witch Kit

Wander Beauty's On The Glow Blush and Illuminator duo  

Wander Beauty is a new beauty and makeup line that was created by two women, model Lindsay Ellingson and business woman Divya Gugnani, who saw the need to cut down on the amount of stuff they packed when they traveled. They also needed to streamline their busy mornings.  They took this concept, of multi-tasking, no fuss products,  and created Wander Beauty.

Most people like to pack light when they travel; an idea that admittedly, escapes me.  Still, I'm aware that many women need to travel with only the essentials.  When you add a few kids into the mix, keeping things easy becomes even more important.

Most products in the Wander Beauty line are dual sided for this reason.  They are 2 in 1 and easy pack or throw in your purse.  Wander Beauty is cruelty free :) The line is also free of parabens, synthetic fragrance and mineral oil.  They also offer a selection of gluten free products.

You guys, the line is really, really good. I've been using it for over a month and will not go back to another concealer. Read below for product reviews on my faves.

MALLY BEAUTY MALLYWOOD COLLECTION

When I received this package from Mally with their Mallywood collection, I was really excited. Years ago, when Mally first debuted on QVC, my mom and I would watch her promote her products. She's really fun, vibrant and has so much passion that she pours into her brand. She really stands behind her products, and if any of you have ever tested items from her line, you know why.

The Mallywood spring collection is limited edition and available online at Ulta, and the Mally website. It features:

• highlighting blush ($28)
• smokey mama mascara ($20)
• wazza wazzup ombre highlighting trio ($32)
• limited edition eye shadow palette ($29)

Swatches after the cut: 

NEW IN BECCA COSMETICS

Today, I'm sharing some new stuff from Becca Cosmetics that I've been testing for a few months.  Plus, some of the products are currently 50% off at Sephora. 

Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlight ($38):  I have the shade Prismatic Amethyst. This is the best daytime highlight shade. You can see the shift in tones below;  it's less pink, and has more of a lavender shift with golden undertones.  This is a a subtle highlight however, don't be afraid to pile this product on if you're looking for something more intense, because it layers well.  TFE Pro Tip: wet your brush or spray some Mac Fix +  to use this product as a brow bone highlight or an all-over lid eye shadow lid shade.

In the quick snaps below, I am wearing the under eye brightener and the highlight. I applied the highlight on my cheeks, tip of my nose and cupid's bow. It is a bit difficult to see but it swatches beautifully and is subtle.

Liquid Crystal Glow Gloss (on sale for $11): these glosses are beautiful and lightweight. They come in unique shades, that are not traditional - a good thing. They wear well over lipstick and will provide a pretty holo shift.

Under Eye Brightening Corrector ($32):You must give this a try but understand that it's not an actual under eye concealer. Of all the Becca products I've tested, this is my favorite one. It's an under eye brightener that breathes life back into tired eyes. I know a few brand new mama's that love this, too. It has a tacky feel upon first application, but once you blend it and set it, you won't feel it. I don't apply it directly under the eyes, but a bit lower on the face.

Shimmering Skin Perfector Luminous Blush ($34): this is a great product because it is pigmented (like crazy), applies smoothly but most of all, is long wearing. Blush is the first thing to go on me, but this wears well. Dip your brush but then shake off the excess before applying.  This shade below is Camellia.

That wraps up this post on the new Becca products that I have been trying out.  I am also testing out a new product photography method and love how the white background makes the products look.

Disclosure: all products in this post were provided to me by PR.

NEWA

One of the most inconvenient things about scheduling an appointment with a dermatologist in Miami is how far in advance you actually have to schedule it. When I call and try to get an appointment, I won't be given one until at least two and a half months down the road. I personally go to Dr. Boews Dermatology, who I like, but it's really difficult to get in with her (and the staff is rude). Annoying.

So, what if I were to tell you that you could get some of the derm office perks right at home? You'd be all-in, right? 

The Newa Skin Tightening Device is a handheld tool that uses radio frequency to to stimulate collagen production and give you a more youthful appearance. It basically pulses energy into your skin to plump fine lines, and gives you a glow in about five-six weeks. It's the only product like this on the market, that's also FDA approved.  It decreases wrinkles and tightens problem areas like jowls, chin and forehead. You feel a slight warming sensation and if you're fair, like me, you will have light redness that fades. 

KRISTEN LEANNE X URBAN DECAY COLLECTION AND SWATCHES

The best days are the days when you arrive home after a long day at work and Urban Decay sends you their latest launch. The day gets even better when you realize that it's the a collab which features one of your fave beauty bloggers, Kristen Leanne.

The launch:

• Kaleidescope Dream Eyeshadow Palette; 
• Beauty Beam Highlight Palette; 
• Vice Lipsticks in shades Cloud9 (magenta), Bun Bun (nude) and Spellbound (plum); 
• Daydream Eyeshadow Palette; 
• Ulta Exclusives: Vice Liquid Lipstick Duo & a mustard single shadow.

The collection is vibrant, bright and bold, but also has something for the more subtle makeup lover. The Daydream palette is a matte shadow palette with great neutrals. The surprisingly perfect shade is 12/12, a coral sherbert that can be both a crease and lid shade. Eight is slightly patchy but once worked into the crease, blended after a bit. Lucy is an overall setting shade. Subscribe is my favorite blending shade.

The Kaleidescope palette is super pigmented. It contains a combination of matte, shimmers and two holographic shades (Leo & Brixton,) that completely transform the look of the shadows. The eyeshadows are very soft and creamy, with amazing color payoff.

The packaging is absolutely worth mentioning - making every aspect of this collection display-worthy. The pictures below speak for themselves. I hope you enjoy this post!  I'll be posting some looks with the collection in a separate post!

  

Keep reading for full swatches of the entire collection and take a look at the video I filmed, previewing the launch.  

Kristen Leanne x Urban Decay Kaleidescope Eyeshadow Palette

HOLIDAY GIFT IDEA: COVER FX PALETTE

Today, I'm featuring the Cover FX Perfect Highlighting Palette, a perfect gift for the statement making girl on your list, who loves to sport bold makeup.  It's currently on sale for 50% off. Shipping is free and you don't have to sign up for their e-mails or register as as user on their website. You can also checkout using Paypal. Cue emoji of dancing cabaret twins.

The palette itself is a sleek rosegold, mirrored compact. It's got significant weight to it and feels sturdy. There are six multi-use powders in the compact. The shades are Blossom, Prism, Rose Gold, Golden Peach, Celestial, and Gilded.

HOLIDAY GIFT IDEA: MAC LIPTENSITY LIPSTICKS AND LINERS

MAC Liptensity lipsticks have tons of staying power without being drying. They leave a satin finish. The original shade range included 24 colors that I swatched in a video and blog post when they first launched.  They are super, super opaque and deposit richly pigmented, creamy color. Now, the original twenty four have some new brothers and sisters. The range has been expanded for the Holiday's to include the colors:  

Something else that's new for the Holidays? Matching Liptensity lipliners. The corresponding shades match up perfectly with their partners. 18 new lipliner shades in all. 

Mac Liptensity Lipsticks retail for $21.

Mac Liptensity Lipliners retail for $21. 

FTC: MAC provided me with the Liptensity line, reviewed above.

CLARINS FALL COLLECTION AND SWATCHES

Clarins Fall 2017 Fall Collection roundup:

• Jolie Rouge lipstick in the shade Deep Red - super opaque, and creamy. A bold, blue based red that applies seamlessly, and wears very comfortably. Highly recommend. 
• Super Restorative Instant Lift Sheet Mask  - I'm an absolute sheet mask addict. If I'm being honest, I'm actually bothered by my love of the sheet mask. A single use product is difficult to justify, price-wise. But, whatever.  My all time favorite is this mask, but this Clarins mask gives similar results (visibly plumps) and is less expensive. You'll also have a good laugh when you put it on because it wraps around the back of your ears and your neck. 
• Clarins Lipliner Pencil in the shade Roseberry - a creamy matte lipliner that applies very smoothly and is not patchy. This shade is a great berry shade.  I've been wearing it to work and lasts a good portion of the day. It's a bit drying because it's matte, but if you layer it with a balm, it's perfect. I use this one.
• Ombre Matte Single Eyeshadow in the shade Midnight Blue -  the name of this shadow is deceiving. It's not a matte. It's got a beautiful, very subtle sheen. It can be easily built up. It wears best over an eyeshadow base or primer, to bring out the vibrant blue pigment.  I recommend pairing it with this shadow base. 

Swatches below xx

WHAT'S NEW WITH AMORE PACIFIC

Getting an Amore Pacific facial at Neiman Marcus, Merrick Park

I'm new to the Amore Pacific line, but have been impressed by my one month use of several of their products. Today, I'm giving you a run-down on some of my favorites and a look into the brand.

July Beauty Faves

I can't believe July is already coming to a close! This year has flown by.  In Miami, we are currently roasting - the Miami Heat is in FULL force. While the blazing summer sun may cause some to skip makeup altogether, you already know that this girl continues to reach for go-to products. This month (and last), I tested out some great stuff. My July Beauty Faves are below.  Hope you enjoy. Read down to the bottom for my favorite eye shadow palette! Please let me know if have tried any of these out!

Clarins Lip Oils: this summer, Clarins launched some new lip oils, in different colors and scents than last year. I like the lip oils because they last on my lips, and have moisturizing properties (they're infused with 100% plant oils). In the summertime, I love a glossy lip. Sometimes I'll top my matte lipsticks with this oil. The two formulas blend perfectly, creating a glossy lip that stays put. I've tried this trick with almost all of the matte lipsticks I own, and it's worked beautifully. The new lip oils are part of the Clarins 2017 Summer Collection.  I will have a full post on the Summer Collection coming up soon, but for now, I'll tell you that the gold, bronze and peach hues in the collection totally appeal to me. 

Clarins 2017 Summer Collection.

Aveda Essentials Line: this line of naturally based products will tame your frizz, slick your hair, and add shine and softness. Be Curly used together with Smooth Infusion are the perfect combo (apply when your hair is still damp), and let your hair air dry for soft and tamed waves. I also like the Damage Remedy Daily Hair Repair leave-in conditioner.

Aveda Hair Essentials Collection.

My hair, after applying Aveda Essential's Be Curly and Smooth Infusion

It took some getting used to but the Aveda Shampure Dry Shampoo has found its way into my routine. At first, I disliked the packing because I couldn't control the amount of product that was dispensed. It does have a slight white cast when you use it too close to your hair. But, after some fine tuning, I figured it out and have to say that it works well at absorbing excess oil. The key is to shake the bottle each time you use it, and squeeze the bottle about 6 inches from your hair. It's got a light scent and unlike some dry shampoos, you can still brush your hair with this one and it blends well

MAC #NextToNothing: this new line of foundations and pressed powders have a lightweight texture and feel. The foundations are dewy and balmy, while the powders are finely milled. But, don't expect the regular, full-coverage MAC foundation formula. The Next To Nothing formula mimics that of a beauty balm or tinted moisturizer. Applying this makes you feel pretty - you sort of glow all over in a youthful way. It doesn't settle into lines, either.

For me, the pressed powders are the all-stars in this collection. This formula is great. It sets my makeup, and causes it to last a long time without touching up. The formula is super fine, and oil absorbing. This doesn't cling to dry patches and smooths out the look of the skin. I am in love with this pressed powder. Go buy it, seriously. 

Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Essence

Caudalie: you already know that I'm a true Caudalie fan. The line is packed with skincare benefits for results you can actually see. My favorite boutique is the Brickelle City Centre boutique. You may recall this post from a few months back, where I recounted how Vanessa (aesthetician) gave me an incredible facial, and helped restore balance to my skin, after a laser facial mishap. 

I was sent the Caudalie Vinoperfect Concentrated Brightening Essence to try. I've been testing it out for about a month and a half. The essence is a combination between a toner and a micellar water. It contains glycolic acid to sweep away dead skin cells. It assists in lightening dark spots and discoloration, providing an  overall smoother, and brighter complexion. It really works. The proof? Sephora's website has 25+ reviews and almost all of them are 5 stars. When this runs out, I will definitely purchase a bottle. 

Urban Decay Naked HEAT Palette: saved the best for last. The Naked Heat Palette is worth the money and lives up to the hype. It's SO pigmented, it's perfectly warm, it's got beautiful mattes that blend seamlessly, and gorgeous shimmer lid shades. This is my absolute FAVORITE eye shadow palette of the moment. Top drawer, every day, all day. Love it. 

July was a definite winner in terms of beauty products. So many good ones this month. I hope you enjoyed this post. Let me know in the comment section, down below!

FTC Disclosure: I was provided everything in this post by PR.