Musings of a Muse

Beauty Battle: MAC 224 Versus MAC 217

2009-07-15T13:39:00.010-04:00

Gather round kids time to battle some brushes! I get alot of questions about which is the best blending brush for creating good eye looks. When I first started out with MAC I was recommended two brushes from a Specktra member that changed my life (and I'm sure yours if you own them). The 217 and 224 are recommended far and wide by MAC lovers everywhere as the perfect brush for blending color to a fine finish. They are two of my very favorite brushes and I probably wouldn't want to face the makeup world without either.

Placing them in the ring together to battle it out isn't such a fine idea as they are both very good brushes and should both be in your arsenal but who follows rules anyway! Might as well stir thing up.

Our beauty battle will begin after the jump as I pit the MAC 224 up against the MAC 217. Who'll be the victor? You'll see have to read to find out more!

As I mentioned above both the MAC 224 and the MAC 217 are incredible blending brushes but of course one has to be the winner in this battle. Which will it be?

In this corner we have the MAC 224 which is a fluffy shadow brush specifically designed to blend out shadow color particularly in the crease. I wouldn't recommend it for applying color directly to the lid but it's a treat for blending shadow out especially if your contrasting shadow within the crease or towards the V of the eye. I reach for it often when blending and find it does a very good job of gently blending color together without creating a muddy mess. It's $28.50 price tag is well worth it however the MAC 217 has a bit of an advantage with a cheaper price tag.

The MAC 217 is smaller compared to the 224 with fluffy bristles that are just a bit more denser. It works incredibly well at blending within the crease or all over the eye. It's small size makes it a shoe in for fitting over the eye socket for a seamless blend. At $22.50 it's $5.50 less than $28.50. With it's cheaper price tag and ability to blend colors evenly while fitting nicely into the curve of the eye this could prove to be a major kick in the 224's face.

Picking between two incredible brushes like these is a difficult task but I award the final knockdown to the MAC 217. It's smaller size fits my crease quite well and allows me to blend easily without creating fall out which I find happens with the 224. It fits neatly all over my eye particularly my crease. It blends shadow like a dream and allows me to press as lightly or as hard as I like without having to worry about screwing up the entire eye look I am trying to accomplish. For the most part I think it's advantage is the smaller length of the bristles when compared to the longer ones of the 224. For controlled application and blending the 217 wins this beauty battle hands down!

What do you think?

Does the MAC 217 or the MAC 224 win your beauty battle?

Tell the Muse!

American Grown Collection At Bath and Body Works

2009-07-15T13:01:00.003-04:00

Bath and Body Works has some new selections up it's sleeve lately. I was wandering around one in the Hamptons last weekend (nice and quiet thank gawd) and came across the new American Grown Collection. I proceeded over to the sink and tried every single one...teehee! Can't help myself as the bottles are so terribly tempting with their bright candy colors.

Jump ahead and have a little peep at this new line!

The American Grown Collection is a selection of hand washes and shower gels inspired by great American destinations at a really great price. Steal, SWING! Love a good deal and these are it. Each bottle is a hefty chunky size for the value price of $6.50 per a hand wash (16oz) and $12.50 per a shower gel for $12.50 (24oz).

The selection of scents are as follows:

Washington Apple: In the fertile valleys of Washington State in America’s far west, growers tend orchards that produce the world’s most crisp, ripe apples. Formulated with Apple Extract to help nourish skin, Washington Apple instantly evokes your first bite of a shiny red apple, an unmistakably juicy flavor.

Napa Grape: In the rolling hills of Napa Valley’s wine country, the alluring scent of ripe grapes wafts through the air. Breathe in this irresistible fragrance and experience the intoxicating aroma as grape seed oil conditions and protects skin.

Siesta Key Lemon: Nothing says summer like fresh-cut Meyer lemons from Florida. Sweeter than other lemons, the plump, smooth-skinned citrus produces a sparklingly fresh fragrance. Take an instant vacation to Siesta Key as Lemon Oil refreshes and brightens the skin.

Savannah Mint: A frosty glass of iced tea in a hot Savannah summer is twice as refreshing with a cool sprig of mint. Breathe in this invigorating fragrance and experience the romance of southern charm and gentility while Peppermint Oil energizes your skin and your senses.

Montana Sky: Experience the clear, crisp quality of the mountain air in big sky country with formulas inspired by the vast beauty of an endless blue sky. Bathe your skin in calming spring waters as you inhale a rush of fresh air.

My favorites were Napa Grape and Siesta Key Lemon. I didn't pick them up while at BBW but I'm sure regretting it now so I'll probably order 'em online. If you're a hand wash junkie like me and all anal about germs these big sizes with such an inexpensive price tag should please.

American Grown Collection is a great beauty budget find and available now at Bath and Body Works!

Anyone sniff 'em yet?

Philosophy Supernatural Super Beautiful Foundation

2009-07-15T12:47:00.004-04:00

Philosophy takes on the liquid foundation world and introduces a brand new foundation coming in September.

Take the jump to find out more.

Philosophy Supernatural Super Beautiful Foundation is a lightweight liquid makeup formulated for sheer, natural coverage. It provides color and moisture plus sun protection in one easy to use liquid form. Although Philosophy doesn't advertise it as such it sounds somewhat like a tinted moisturizer to this Muse.

I'm quite eager to try it out for myself. Philosophy excels itself in the skincare and bath and body world but has been known to release a nice item or two in the cosmetic world as well.

Available in 5 shades for $25 each starting in September.

What do you think?

Love or Leave?

Steal This: Harajuku Lovers Fragrances at Sephora for $15!

2009-07-15T12:33:00.002-04:00

Holy cows and moons! Sephora has the 0.33oz size of all the Harajuki Lovers Fragrances for $15 bucks! That's 50% Off!

Go hauls peeps, go hauls! Before I gather them all up for myself *insert evil laugh here*

Guerlain Fall Collection 2009: Guerlain Slavic Beauty Collection

2009-07-15T12:10:00.003-04:00

As always Guerlain releases an elegant and very pretty selection for Fall 2009 entitled Slavic Beauty.

Jump ahead for some Musings about this collection!

I'm quite eager to see Guerlain Holiday 2009 as it's always my favorite collection of the year but I can feel the excitement in the air for Guerlain Fall 2009. Guerlain Slavic Beauty is a selection of rich plums, browns, and purples which make up a very pretty palette for Autumn. As always Guerlain keeps things fresh with the release of Guerlain Russian Doll Blush which is a sheer pink liquid blush in a elegant tall purple bottle. Also releasing are two Guerlain Russian Beauty Eye Shadow Palettes one of which is made up of rich browns and the other purples and pinks (I have my eye on both). Another brand new take is a Guerlain Eye and Lip Palette which I haven't seen from Guerlain before this. It includes two colors and two eye colors.

Truly a gorgeous selection for Fall from Guerlain and on my hit list to haul this season!

Anyone indulging?

Already have?

Tell the Muse!

Steal It: Laura Mercier Cheek Colour $11

2009-07-15T11:58:00.001-04:00

Score some Laura Mercier Cheek Colour for $11 bucks!

Available in two shades, Blushing Apple and Crushed Hazelnut. Cheaps!

Click to shop it!

Steal It: Stila 24K Gold Gloss Set for $42

2009-07-15T11:54:00.002-04:00

Now steal this peeps!

Get all 5 Stila 24kt Gold Glosses from the Stila Indian Summer Release for $42!

Likey!

I have three of the shades already but I'm so tempted to order this set.

Get it at www.stilacosmetics.com

Cheap Beauty Challenge: Maybelline Focus On Gold Expert Wear Eye Shadow Review and Swatches

2009-07-14T21:18:00.013-04:00

This Summer you can go with any number of luxurious posh brands of eye shadow for a smoldering, sizzling Summer eye look. However, the economy may be preventing you from indulging in prices per shadow of $18 and upwards.

If you're wanting to save a buck or two and still have a pretty sun kissed look this season jump ahead and join me on another Cheap Beauty Challenge!

This round of Cheap Beauty Challenge I'm spotlighting the new Maybelline Focus on Gold Collection. I hope everyone had a chance to sneak a peek at the shadows released in this collection as indeed they are golden, price wise and color.

This beauty challenge consists of a completed look using point products only which in this case would be eye shadows. Anything else such as blush, foundation, etc...is excluded from the total cost of the look. The challenge is to create a Summer friendly look for eyes without breaking the bank.

Of course you can go with any number of incredible brands this season for some seriously beautiful looks. Such as Clarins Instant Sun Light Shimmer Palette for Eyes ($36), any number of Urban Decay Eye Shadows such as Half Baked, Baked, and Twice Baked (all would make an incredible Summer look $16 each or $28 for a palette), or some of MAC Style Warrior Eye Shadows ($29 for 2 Shades).

If you're not willing to dish out for any of the above do head to your local drugstore with a $10 dollar bill and snag yourself some of the new Maybelline Focus on Gold Expert Eye Shadows. I found these at Harmon's Beauty Store for $2.92 each and they are truly a gem. Plenty cheap, plenty pigmented, and perfect for a Summer eye look!

The shades I got were Golden Rays (Golden Bronze), Pink Sunsation (Beige Pink), and Copper Coast (Copper Bronze. Each shade is silky smooth, blends lovely for a drugstore brand, and has plenty of pigment. The finish is velvet with a hint of sparkle.

The total cost for my Summer makeup look below was $5.84 as I used two of the shadows to create it. I used Golden Rays all over my lid and contrasted the shade with Copper Coast in the lid.

Honestly, if you're not willing to dig in deep to your saving for a warm Summer look just head to the couch and dig around for some spare change (and stale cheetos if you get lucky!) and indulge in one or two of these shadows. Count me impressed for the price. Maybelline Focus On Gold is a great contender for this Cheap Beauty Challenge!

I guess sometimes it's ok to be cheap but don't tell anyone I said that!

Likey!

Anyone try haul these?

Share your thoughts!

Summer Must Have Makeup: the Balm Hot Mama Review, Swatches, and Comparisons To Orgasm

2009-07-14T20:42:00.010-04:00

Time to amp up Summer peeps. Want a perfectly cool coral blush for Summer? Loud, bold, funky, and fun?

My pick? the Balm Hot Mama! Likey!

Click it for a review!

I've been a big fan of the Balm Hot Mama since it's release a few Summer's ago. Such a great little blush. I've bragged it once or twice here and there and even did an article about it on Specktra's Blog when I was posting over there for a spell a year or so ago.

If you like NARS Orgasm and Super Orgasm you'll adore the Balm Hot Mama. Or maybe you feel like Orgasm is a bit too sheer and Super Orgasm a bit too shimmery...Hot Mama is neither. No shimmer here and plenty of pigment. It's a warm, sizzling shade of popping coral that's ideal for the Summer sun! the Balm loves making things easy to multitask so you can use Hot Mama on lids or cheeks, super!

I thought I'd pull it out today because it is one of my Summer Must Have Make Up Items and sure was worthy of a post all it's own.

With a bit of pink, plenty of peach, and a whole like of heat this is a Summer blush you should be adding to your beauty arsensal!

Loves it!

Total Muse Approve for purchase!

I was even nice enough to compare Hot Mama, Orgasm, and Super Orgasm for ya. Aren't I sweets?

Anyone own Hot Mama?

Lover?

Leaver?

Tell it!

Reader's Request: Stila Smudge Pot 24K Golden Noir Versus Stila Smudge Pot Black Cat

2009-07-14T20:32:00.002-04:00

As requested from a few readers here are shots comparing Stila 24K Smudge Pot Golden Noir to Stila Black Cat Smudge Pot.

Reader's Request: The Body Shop RoseFlower Blush FOTD

2009-07-14T20:22:00.003-04:00

As you know I recently hauled a few bits at The Body Shop one item of which was The Body Shop RoseFlower Blush 02 which was on sale. A few readers requested a review to see what it looked like on.

Here you go chicas!

As you can see it's a very pretty flush of color. Do look around your local Body Shop as there many be some to haul or I've seen a few on Evil-bay that aren't badly priced.

Anyone haul it?

Loving it?

Urban Decay Complexion Pore Perfecting Primer Review

2009-07-14T20:14:00.002-04:00

This season Urban Decay has brought out a slew of various primers including ones for lips, eyes, and face. Recently, I reviewed the Urban Decay Complexion Brightening Primer for you. Do see that review if you have dry or combination skin minus pores as it's more suitable than the one I'm about to tell you about.

Jump ahead to hear more about Urban Decay Complexion Pore Perfecting Primer.

I'm not the best person to review Urban Decay Complexion Pore Perfecting Primer for you as my skin is drier and I'm not prone to large pores however since I'm such a Urban Decay fan girl I thought I'd try my hand at it.

The formula of this particular primer differs considerably when compared to the brightening version as it sports a velvety smooth feel that dries down to a powdery silicon finish. This should do well at filling pores and keeping oily skin well in check. It's ideal for oily skin but anyone who wants a smoother working canvas for makeup will also adore it.

Although I do not have larger pores or oily skin (at the moment anyway wait until we get some real heat and my face will be plenty oily) it does make my face smoother and eases the way for foundation. It works pretty great with all foundation types (believe me I've tried it on all formulas of foundation just for the sake of saying I did) I thought it performed best with liquid and cream as it allows these bases to blend very smoothly, evenly, and it feels as if the foundation doesn't absorb completely into my skin but rather sits above it and on top of the primer. This is always a good thing since upon contact with my skin, within hours, my foundation tends to either turn ashy, gray, or just oxidizes.

It seems like it would ideally fill pores and smooth out skin as it sports the same feeling, formula, and texture of most popular silicon based primers but without causing that irritating itchy feeling or pilling on my skin.

I do like the brightening version better for my skin type I can't deny that this is equally good and I'm happy to have added them both to my beauty arsenal.

Anyone try yet?

Loves it?

Tell the Muse!

Or stop back soon when you have had a whirl with it...dying to hear your thoughts!

Cosmedix Mystic Hydrating Treatment Review

2009-07-14T19:56:00.008-04:00

This Summer I discovered that I like misting myself to death rather than suffer through wearing a facial moisturizer. I'm utterly obsessed with misting toners that offer moisture of any kind. Jane Iredale has my attention as does Jurlique and not most recently Cosmedix Mystic Hydrating Treatment!

Click for a review!

Cosmedix Mystic Hydrating Treatment is an oily free, moisturizing mist for all skin types. Oily skin types can totally appreciate this best as it offers moisture yet doesn't clog pores or make skin oilier than it already is. Those with dry skin will be thrilled to use it in place of their normal moisturizer in the Summer and dry skin types will appreciated how it allows skin to remain dewy and fresh while allowing it to breath and break away from heavy lotions, potions, and creams.

Mystic Hydrating Treatment pretty much takes the place of normal moisturizer which is a welcome relief as having to apply base, spf, a moisturizer, foundation, and the dozen other creams that come with makeup application is ridiculous. A quick mist of this gives me just the right amount of moisture while leaving my skin soft without making it oily. Although I'm doubtful I can use this as my regular moisturizer in the Winter it comes in mighty handy right now.

Compared to other toners and mists I thought this particular one offers the most moisture, after all it is advertised as just that, a moisturizer. Not a toner, not a mist, but a moisturizer, in a bottle, in liquid form. Coolness!

Of course you can use it to set mineral makeup as well as for me it just leaves my skin beautifully prepped for makeup. Perfect Summer treat for skin! Loves it!

Muse Approved for purchase.

Oily skin? Skip the moisturizer and head straight for this! You'll thank me! Dry? Snag some of this to use as your Summer moisturizer!

Seriously, it's worthy of a try.

What are some mists you love using in the Summer?

Any take the place of your regular moisturizer?

Tell the Muse!

Cover FX Total Coverage Cream Foundation Review Cover FX Clear Prep Review

2009-07-14T18:57:00.009-04:00

My quest for flawless skin recently led me to Cover FX. Has anyone played about with Cover FX at all? Do share your stories in the comment box, curious minds what you think!

Cover FX can only be classified as a tricky little foundation that when applied correctly will give you hours of long wearing flawless skin but when applied incorrectly will have you sobbing on your bathroom floor shouting to the heavens, "Why, Jebus, Why!?

Click ahead for my raves and rants!

Available in a ridiculous amount of shades you're guaranteed to find at least one shade out of over 30 that suits your tone. On top of an incredible selection of colors Cover FX Total Coverage Cream Foundation also has an SPF 30. SPF 30? You're kidding? That's a super serious amount of SPF in a foundation that can be purchased in the US. If you laid out any Asian brand that had that much SPF in it I'd fail to be shocked but anything within the US with that much SPF, whoa, seriously cool. Already I'm impressed.

What it is?

Cover FX Total Coverage Cream Foundation is a maximum coverage cream foundation for covering minor to major problems. Ok, you can't think this is going to cover tattoos or anything crazy like that because it has maximum in the details but I do think it's quite pigmented and you can get medium to full coverage (I wouldn't recommend too full a coverage as the product will look a tad bit over done by caking it on) using it.

It's oil free and fragrance free which makes it a good choice for oily, acne prone skin types, in fact it's suggested for such a skin type. The foundation has a certain amount of tack and stick somewhat like the texture of Stila Convertible Color that allows for the product to have an extensive wear throughout the day without it oxidizing, fading, or just disappearing.

Although I was expecting a moisturizing cream, it is in face a very densely packed cream which makes blending a bit of a problem. This is where my rant comes into play....You need to take serious care and consideration when applying. Much like Urban Decay Surreal Skin Cream to Powder Foundation which I just reviewed for you, you'll need proper prepping and priming to get the cream onto your face and blended to a flawless finish. You may find yourself at first frustrated and disappointed at the results but with proper application you'll be delighted at how well it looks, feels, and wears. My rant is minor in the fact that I tend to rush things and this needs a little TLC to get it properly applied.

The foundation is best applied with a sponge applicator (slightly damp if you like) and smoothed on in a very thin layer. After application smooth your clean finger tips over it to create an even coverage. One thin layer should give you decent coverage but you can ever so slowly build up for better coverage.

As I mentioned prepping is key. Do not to moisturizer your face too much if you're skin is dry. Instead use a moisturizing mist, let dry slightly so your skin is dewy and follow up with Cover FX Clear Prep FX Primer or the primer of your choice. I do recommend using Clear Prep FX Primer as it made by the same company who is keeping in mind that this will be used with it's foundation. This is a particularly good primer as it's made to mattify the skin and treat acne. If you're oily I'd skip the mist and just head straight for the primer as it'll treat both your acne and oily spots. The primer is silicon based so it does have that slightly strange feeling on the face but it absorbs nicely and leaves behind a powdery finish which makes applying the foundation a breeze as the product is left to sit on top of the primer rather than directly on your skin. This is an important point as it allows for a longer wear.

The results...

When prepped, primed, applied, and finally blended correctly you're left with very nice coverage that evens out the skin tone, hides redness (I think it'll be a particularly great item for hiding redness), and creates a good, flawless working canvas for makeup.

When applied in correctly...

Expect a mask like, muddy look if you aren't careful so just go slowly...don't be like the Muse and rush it or you'll end up on the bathroom like I mentioned above!

I didn't set the cream with powder after but just proceed to leave the house with it on. It lasted from around 8 in the morning to about 5 in the evening. Please keep in mind I wasn't outside in the heat for most of that time so I can't say how it performs out side but indoors it doesn't need much of a touch up. It simply stays on.

Overall, I wouldn't say it's my HG foundation simply because I prefer a bit more of a moisturizing foundation but those with skin woes or lots to cover this could prove a life saver.

Who might like it?

Anyone with oily, acne prone skin!
Those who want to hide minor acne scarring, redness, freckles, or minor skin perfection.
Those who desire an oil free foundation.
Anyone who wants a long wearing foundation that doesn't fade.

Cover FX is worthy of a look at for sure. I do recommend heading into Sephora for a swatch and a play as ordering online could prove difficult when presented with that many shade options.

Anyone a Cover FX lover?

Change your life?

Do share!

Lush Sugar Scrub and Lush Sugar Babe Review

2009-07-14T17:47:00.008-04:00

Can you guess what this is?

Nope, it's not a sugar cookie actually it's not a cookie of any kind. Not a Chinese dumpling either. In fact you can't eat it at all but that doesn't mean it's not good for you and your body!

Click ahead to find out what it is!

Those of you who guessed that it's a Lush Sugar Scrub guessed correctly! Looks kinda edible doesn't it?

Ok, you need these in your life. You need these if your skin is rough and flaky. You need them if you want a moisturizing exfoliating scrub that's sooooooo super luxurious. You just need 'em period.

If you love Buffy you'll absolutely adore how Lush has taken exfoliation to the next level with their brand new Lush Sugar Scrubs! The scrubs are delicately packed together lumps of joy. I do say delicate since if you handle them incorrectly and with out a little TLC you'll find yourself with a fist full of sugar, be gentle. Each scrub is packed into a dome, raised cookie shape kinda like a scone! The scrubs are available in two versions for $4.95 each and you can probably get one to two uses if you want to super scrub your rough bits or about four uses if you're stingy. As for me I'm terribly rough so I use an entire one for my knees and elbows plus Lush does suggest using one per a shower. The basic idea is to break it in two pieces, wet the area you're working with, wet the scrub in your hand and proceed to rub it anywhere you want smooth, silky skin. The scrub quickly breaks up into grains of sugar and after a little scrubbing they sud up and disappear. They leave behind smooth, silky, moisturized skin. You need to try 'em yourself as they are truly a little joy in the bath and body world.

The two scrubs available are Sugar Scrub and Sugar Babe. Sugar Scrub is Vegan where as Sugar Babe is not.

Sugar Scrub has a herbal lavender scent and is green in color. Lush says it's good for scrubbing away dead skin cells, tackling cellulite, and and invigorating sluggish skin.

Sugar Babe is my favorite of the two. At first sniff I didn't like it as it had a weird sour milk gardenia scent but once it's wet it smells oddly of Lush Snowcake but with quite a bit more of a floral underlay which is a bit lily-like and a bit of gardenia as well. Lush recommends this for upper arms, thighs, and stomach. It has a center of extra virgin coconut oil which is revealed as you scrub. The actual scent is ylang ylang but for me it smells quite like Snowcake when damp. Loving it!

Lush Sugar Scrubs are available now from www.lush.com

Muse Approved for purchase! I love these. Absolutely an awesome idea and a great product for getting smooth, silky Summer skin.

Anyone try yet?

Loves 'em?

Leaves 'em?

Tell the Muse!

Beauty News: Estee Lauder Launches Facebook Page

2009-07-14T16:31:00.002-04:00

If you've always wanted to be BFF with Estee Lauder here's your chance. Estee Lauder has launched it's own Facebook page so you can join up and befriend them over at Facebook.

The page will have information about the newest launches, top trends, special events, product promotions, photos, videos, and a slew of other great coverage from Estee Lauder.

Check them out by visiting www.facebook.com/EsteeLauder

Urban Decay Summer Collection 2009: Urban Decay Minx Eye Shadow Reviwew and Swatches

2009-07-14T14:05:00.007-04:00

Urban Decay Eye Shadow in Minx is one of two shadows exclusively available at Sephora right now for the Urban Decay Summer Collection. I recently brought you a review and swatches of the other shadow release, Ecstasy, which is a lovely purple.

Today I thought I'd muse some about Urban Decay Minx Eye Shadow as it's my favorite of the two shades!

Click it for the details, swatches, and a babble or two!

I can't say there isn't a time I am not excited about a shadow release from Urban Decay. They are a true love and I have practically all the shades, ridiculous I know but I love them so!

Urban Decay Eye Shadow in Minx is a love. If you like aquas, sea greens, and teals this should appeal. Minx is beautiful teal with tons of silver sparkle. It has a slightly green cast that makes the shade morph into a little bit more than your average everyday teal.

I think this one is a winner and worthy of a pick up!

Loves it!

Anyone haul it?

Wanting to?

Tell the Muse!

Physicians Formula Organic Wear Natural Origin Eye Make Remover Liquid and Pads Review

2009-07-13T21:50:00.008-04:00

Physicians Formula has a brand new organic range of cleansers for removing makeup. I ran across the line recently while I was in Harmon's and snatched up one or two items to review here.

Take the jump for the word on Physicians Formula Organic Wear Natural Origin Eye Make Remover Liquid and Pads.

The Physicians Formula Organic Wear Natural Origin Collection consists of two eye makeup removers, a cleansing makeup remover, and makeup remover Towelettes. The line is priced at $9.95 on the Physicians Formula site but I got my items for $7.99 each plus a $3 coupon which was stuck on the packaging thus bringing the price down to $4.99 per an item. I suppose $7.99 is a reasonable price but $4.99 felt even better, particularly because I was so disappointed with the items I did haul.

If you're a lover of organic makeup these should appeal. Physicians Formula says they are 100% Free of Harsh Chemicals, 100% Paraben-Free, and 100% Cruelty Free. I honestly did not buy them because they were organic I was simply yearning for a cheap eye makeup remover which led me to purchase the two removers offered.

Physicians Formula Organic Wear Eye Makeup Remover comes in a liquid form and in a pad form. Although it didn't promise to remove waterproof mascara I was stupidly hopeful by some small miracle it would. Both products have a fresh, herbal lavender scent which is quite pleasant. For basic eye makeup remover, sans waterproof mascara, or mascara in general, they do a decent job but if you wear heavy makeup including waterproof mascara these aren't going to get you very far. So you see why I was feeling shut down and disappointed. Why aren't there any decent eye makeup removers at the drugstore?

Although it failed to remove my mascara and didn't do much good on pigmented aqua eye shadow I still can't trash it completely as it is an ideal product for those that wear minimal eye makeup and need a gentle makeup remover or prefer products that are both green friendly and free of harsh chemicals.

Overall, I'll probably refrain from purchasing any more of this collection but I am every so slightly curious about the cleanser but since I was a tad hohum about these two removers I'll safely skip. These should be at your local drugstore as I found them locally if you're interested. My final verdict, no likey.

Along with the $3 instant coupon on each product there was a $5 mail in rebate so it's virtually like getting the products free if you don't mind the leg work of rebates.

Anyone try this line?

Anyone interested in it?

Do share!

Bath and Body Works Fragrant Waters Review

2009-07-13T21:13:00.011-04:00

Whoa...anyone see the new Bath and Body Works Fragrant Waters? My sis and I were at BBW last Saturday morning and ran across a slew of new items one of which were these huge, super size elegant bottles of Bath and Body Fragrances.

Jump ahead for a peep!

These are incredible. 10oz size but they seem even bigger to me! Housed in a chunky, fun glass bottle each fragrance is $18.50 each and available in a variety of Bath and Body Works scents, new and old classics. These are rather ideal for Summer as they really bring to life the sparkling splash that Bath and Body is so well known for but in a quirky, clever packaging. I was pleasantly surprised that the scents last considerably longer than the normal body spray range and linger quite long.

Normal body splashes cost $12 and are 8oz in size so these aren't much bigger for the price but as I mentioned the scent seems to linger a good deal longer with a nice throw, could be they are using more fragrance oil in these. Quite nice really and pleasantly got me back into enjoying Bath and Body Works scents with this new style packaging.

Regular splash versus Fragrant Waters

If you're not willing to dish out for a large bottle you can indulge in the new Bath and Body Works Fragrant Waters Roller Balls. These are equally as cute and $7.50 won't break the bank. These are ideal for throwing in your purse for a quick roll on of your favorite BBW scent. Cutes!

The scents available in the splashes and roll ons are:

Wild HoneySuckle
Black Amethyst
Butterfly Flower
White Citrus
Japanese Cherry Blossom
Sweat Pea
Dancing Waters

I got mine in White Citrus, remember how I was all about the scent of White Citrus a few weeks ago? White Citrus is a fresh crispy citrus with lemon, orange and bergamot. Very refreshing and tart for the Summer weather!

With is super cute packaging I'm enjoying the reinvention of Bath and Body Works fragrances. Loves 'em! Although they have a Summer feeling about them I'm hopeful Bath and Body Works will embrace the line and continue releasing other scents in the Fragrant Waters line. I'd love to see some Fall blends!

Muse Approved for purchase!

Do check these out as they are worthy of a peep! Likey!

Anyone haul any?

Seen 'em at your local BBW?

Love 'em?

Leave 'em?

Tell the Muse!

By the way these are available online as well with an exclusive deal of buy two get one free! Sweetness!

Visit www.bathandbodyworks.com to grab the deal.

MAC Colour Craft: MAC Mineralized Baked Eye Shadow Quad Review and Swatches

2009-07-13T20:32:00.009-04:00

It's a MAC kinda day isn't it? I thought I'd babble briefly about the MAC Mineralized Baked Eye Shadows released with the Colour Craft Collection.

Jump ahead for it and feel free to join in with your thoughts!

I thought the release of MAC Colour Craft Face was incredible. The blushes, the MSF, the brushes, all really great products. However, I was disappointed with the mineralized shadows which failed to impress me. Each shadow is split into four separate colors which could be exciting for some but just had me dreading the terrible mess it would be later on in life. Some of the color selections of the shadows were very nice two in particular I'm swatching today are gorgeous however the quads did fail to impress me because it seemed like alot of color in one tiny pan.

I wouldn't necessarily mind all that color however since it has no separator, no divider of any kind it does become a bit of a hot mess when working with each individual shade. Already after a single eye look my pan is looking like all the colors have blended into each other, yak mess! Although I love the idea, in action it fails to work and the shadow just becomes a mess of muddy colors since they are all running together unless you're extra careful when swiping with your brush.

The two shades, the two best shades in my opinion, that I'm showing you today are Natural Flare and Assemblage. Natural Flare is made up of many Summer-ready shades particularly the fiery orange which reminds me of MAC Firepit. The shades range from orange to golden beige, brown, and copper bronze. Truly the combination of the four shades is stunning. Assemblage is made up of some interesting shades that quite remind me of a Seasonal Winter look. Shades of black, shimmering gold and white, and a deep pewter gray will make a very pretty smoky eye.

I adore the idea of these shadows but I do think they are a tad on the messy side. Singles, sure. Duos, yes. A quad in one small pan? Not a good idea.

What do you think?

Loves 'em?

Leaves 'em?

Tell the Muse!

Sneak Peek: MAC Baby Bloom MAC Suntints Review and Swatches

2009-07-13T19:44:00.006-04:00

By now the Muse considers herself an experienced MAC collector but I admit it never fails to amaze me when MAC throws something completely new at me. Do you think a bunch of the MAC creative team sits down in a mafia style meeting and brain storms about what the MAC junkies of the world need next? Do you think that one day they might run out of ideas? Today is not that day though but it is a day I'll show you a little sneaky peek at the MAC Baby Bloom Collection and a few swatches of the new MAC Suntints Liquid Lip Balm releasing with the collection!

Jump for it!

Don't be mad at me but I think it's quite pointless to have SPF in my lip balm.....but maybe that's me. No matter, I'm still in love with MAC Suntints which contain an SPF 20. MAC Suntints are a liquid lip balm which mimics that of a lipglass but in a squeeze tube packaging with a slightly milky, creamy formula. The tints are super sheer and have no color payoff however they are a pure joy for topping lipstick or stains with plus if you're partial to SPF in your gloss these work a treat. The texture is perhaps a tad bit thiner than your average lipglass but not by much. If you're not a fan of applying your lipglass with a sponge tip applicator these are rather great as they come in a squeeze tube which allows you to spread a generous layer onto lips.

I've been testing two today and both are very subtle and sheer but rather great regardless since they give lips plenty of shine plus wear long. The two colors I have are Lilt of Lily (Creamy Pale Pink) and Moist Plum (Light Lilac). These could prove disappointing for some if you expect a pigmented gloss but if you adore lipglass and always fancied it in a squeeze tube you'll adore these. I can't speak for the other shades but I look forward to seeing if the others are a bit more pigmented than these two.

Also releasing with the MAC Baby Bloom Collection is a Studio Moisture Tint SPF 15 in five shades, excited to try this myself!

Overall, MAC Baby Bloom is one of those itty bitty collections that makes MAC junkies everywhere step back and grin.

Anyone into this?

Loves it?

Leaves it?

Tell the Muse!

Sneak Peeks: MAC Love That Look Eye Shadow Review and Swatches

2009-07-13T19:24:00.007-04:00

Yay! The return of MAC StarFlash Eye Shadow is coming to us July 30th! Have a sneak peek at some swatches of the upcoming MAC Love that Look Collection after the jump!

MAC Starflash Eye Shadow is one of my favorite finishes. It's a bit frosty, a little bit shimmer, very velvety, and super easy to blend. Loves it!

My first round with MAC Starflash was a tiny haul and I have ever since regretted it so of course I'm super excited to see some shades are making a return appearance with the MAC Love That Look Collection along with a slew of new shades.

12 shades of MAC StarFlash Eye Shadow will be released along with 4 shades of Pearlglide Eye Liner which I know many of you raved upon the first release! The shades I'm giving you a tiny peep at today are Fashion Groupie which is a pretty voilet, Strike a Pose (my fav!) which is a deep blue green, and Style Snob a pretty pink brown with a heavy hint of gold.

Here's the official color release information:

MAC StarFlash Eye Shadow

Grand Entrance (Frost Peach Beige)
Dreammaker (Frosty Yellow Gold)
Smoke&Diamonds (Dirty Taupe)
Glamour Check! (Reddish Brown)
Strike a Pose (Blue Green)
Ego (Light Yellow Pink)
Fashion Groupie (Violet)
Unbasic White (Bright Off White)
One-Off (Green with Silver)
Rated "R" (Yellow Green)
Style Snob (Pink Brown with Gold)
Fashion (Grey Green with Gold)

MAC Pearlglide Eyeliner

Black Russian (Black with Navy Blue Glitter)
Rave (Deep Purple with Purple Glitter)/li>
Molasses (Brown with Brown Glitter)
Fly-by-Blu (Light Blue with Blue Glitter)

I'm looking forward to the MAC Love that Look Collection as I def want to haul a few more of the shadows. Truly if you missed MAC Starflash the first time around now is your chance to experience these incredible shadows. Loves 'em!

Anyone a fan of Starflash?

Tell the Muse!

MAC Colour Craft LipGlass Swatches and Review

2009-07-13T18:56:00.008-04:00

The color trio marbleized MAC Lipglasses from the Colour Craft Collection are not original as they have been done before with the MAC SugarSweet Collection however the shades are new. The first round of these released didn't capture my fancy and I admit the second time coming they held little appeal as well.

Jump ahead for a few thoughts, a few swatches, and general babble about MAC Lipglass!

First off I hope MAC doesn't embrace this new square packaging as I'm rather partial to the round, standard lip gloss tubes thanks so much. Does anyone feel the same or am I alone here?

I'm not denying that this style of MAC Lipglass is very pretty and quite unique however I do fear in the long run that the pretty shades and colors in the tube will end up a dreadful mess after many times of removing and applying the gloss. This is one main reason I've avoided these glosses up until now.

Although pretty the gloss still fails to capture my interest as I'm not all that interested in three shades of gloss combing to create one single color, as that's the effect and finish after all right? Seems like a whole lot of extra that I don't need in my life.

The two shades I've been fiddling about with today are Crazy Haute which is a bluish pink but just looks rather purplish to me and Pretty Patter which is a very nude, sheer beige.

Overall, as pretty as these are I prefer my old MAC Lipglass in the long wrong. Tried and true favorite for the Muse.

What do you think?

Summer Soft Skin On a Budget: Caress Evenly Gorgeous Exfoliating Body Wash and Beauty Bar Review

2009-07-13T18:35:00.004-04:00

Happiness is a cheap way to get Summer soft, silky smooth skin on a beauty budget price. Caress Evenly Gorgeous Exfoliating Body Wash and Beauty Bar is the newest addition to the Caress Skinwear Collection and baby I'm a love it!

Click ahead to hear the review!

This is the first time I've heard of Caress Evenly Gorgeous Exfoliating Body Wash. The wash contains brown sugar and karite butter for a smooth, moisturizing exfoliating experience. The gel has a nice, moisturizing feel on the skin but it's the brown sugar that really wows me as it gets rough elbows and knees in tiptop shape. The scent of the wash is a beautiful, sultry fresh blend, quite addicting! The scent lingers quite nicely long after your shower is over!

The line even includes a new Caress Evenly Gorgeous Exfoliating Beauty Bar so you can start out by treating your skin with a quick scrub down with the soap and proceed to follow up with the wash.

If you're looking for a budget friendly option to get your rough skin into silky smooth shape Caress Skinwear is the way to go for under $5 bucks.

Likey!

Sephora Moroccan Sunrise Palette Review and Swatches

2009-07-13T15:51:00.014-04:00

Ahh Sephora, you cheeky little monkey, it delights me endlessly when you shock and surprise me. We gently touched on the subject of Sephora's Spring Collection entitled Moroccan Sunrise way back when. Please tell me you recall? We were all so awed by the prospect of such a pretty collection put out, no less, by Sephora. Indeed, Sephora sneaks up on occasion and releases little itty bitty items that are awesome.

Awesome would fall on the heals of the Sephora Moroccan Sunrise Palette, perhaps awesome isn't even a suitable adjective to use. Great? Fabulous? Gorgeous perhaps?

Jump for it!

I do feel slight guilty I'm spreading the good cheer about a Spring palette in the Summer but you'll be happy to know 1. the palette is still very available and 2. it's pretty stunning for Summer anyway color wise!

Some of the Sephora Moroccan Collection has since gone on clearance and everyday I head over to peep and see if this palette pops up on sale too, but ado, it's still $32. But it's well spent money in my opinion.

First off, you may have to get pass the idea that although very pretty in design the palette is very cheap. It looks like a heavy gold plated palette but in fact it's cheap plastic so it can easily break if dropped. Also they include a dual ended rubbish brush with it. What they think you're going to do with a brush that's this skinny is beyond me as it can be used, at best, as a liner brush and in no way can apply the shadows enclosed in the compact.

Aside from these rants I must say the shadows inside are absolute gems. Smoldering Summer ready colors with a pigmented, easy to blend formula await you in six shades. Combine and blend together for a sizzling Summer look or wear them alone for several different looks!

The palette includes a fiery orange, a champagne beige, a shimmering coffee brown, a matte nude brown, and a flirty coral pink. All the shades are stunning and quite unique particularly the pink and pretty orange. Five of the shadows have a shimmer finish where as the sixth is matte. In my opinion they did the palette unjust by releasing it as part of the Spring Collection since, for me, it makes a way better Summer release.

My first look I used the champagne beige as a highbrow highlighter and the orange on my lid with a bit of pink coral blended into the crease. For my second loos below I used the champagne beige and coffee brown to contrast.

My camera's flash picks up shimmer in a major way so a better representation of the shadow finish is this last photo!

Overall, the palette is a pure joy and a very nice find from Sephora. I think it's worthy of a pick up if you're looking for an array of tropical, sunny shades this Summer! Muse Approved for purchase.

Anyone pick this up?

Loving it?

Tell the Muse!