Covergirl Lid Lock Up Eye Primer Review

 I just got an email that Apple is making an announcement next month- I sure hope it's for a new phone drop. I dropped and cracked my screen a few months ago and it's been such an eyesore. I would have bought a new phone- but I don't want to buy a new old phone. I want to buy a new (new phone) so I've been not so patiently waiting for the new phones to drop. I've had my current phone since 2019 so I think it's time for an upgrade. I think Apple is supposed to be releasing a Cherry color which is the one I want. Hoping I like it in person though because I thought the Orange drop from last year was for me but I didn't like the color when I saw it in person. 

Anyway..eye primer. 

Covergirl:

COVERGIRL Lid Lock Up Eyeshadow Primer gives you all-day, crease-proof eyeshadow security. Prep your lids to maximize the wear and intensity of your shadow. This quick-to-dry eyeshadow primer pairs perfectly with our range of eyeshadow kits and palettes.

Made in England 

No matter how good or expensive an eyeshadow I am using it- I need a primer. I went without primer one time a few days ago and by the end of the day all my shadow was gone. creased, etc. It's not an option for me...so I always try to keep one on deck. 

I picked this one up because it was affordable and I like to switch up between high end  and budget friendly. 

It comes in what I associate as lip gloss packaging. But it's easy to use and it works. I just worry that there will be a lot of product left over that I won't see, be able to get out. But so far I've had it and been using it for a few months and it's still going strong. 

It looks/feels just like any other primer. Looks beige but rubs in clear for the most part. I have found I can see it looking slightly ashy sometimes if I don't really take care to rub it in. I'm not a fan of that.

It is a slightly sticky to grip shadow but in a good way. I haven't noticed any dragging or difficulty blending out with it as long as I'm using the right brush. 

My shadow lasts all day. I feel like it looks the same at the end of the day when I first applied so it does what it says. 

I like it. I think it's a great primer- the only thing is I would prefer something truly clear that I can throw on. So it isn't a repurchase for me- as I prefer something truly clear. But it is a really good primer that I would recommend. 

Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base Review

 

I have been sitting on this review- been meaning to review it for forever. But I wanted to make sure I tested it with different foundations to really get a true opinion on it. I love a good primer- some think it's not necessary but it really can go a long way to prepping your skin and providing hydration and a smooth surface for your makeup to sit on top of. They can extend your wear time, control oil etc. I don't wear a primer every day. But I do when I want my skin to look extra nice.

Bobbi Brown claims: 

Skincare made for makeup. Our bestselling hydrating primer instantly nourishes, plumps, and preps skin to improve the look of foundation. It's full makeup prep in one step, blending the performance of a makeup primer with the cushion of a moisturizer.

• A blend of Vitamins B, C, and E helps replenish and condition skin with essential nourishment.
• A moisturizing complex of Hyaluronic Acid, Squalane, and Shea Butter helps instantly hydrate, plump, and prep skin for a fresh, healthy-looking glow.
• Rich yet lightweight and fast-absorbing texture cushions skin and grips foundation for smooth, flawless makeup application.
• 100% natural fragrance of Grapefruit and Geranium uplifts the senses.


- 100% natural fragrance 
- 100% naturally derived fragrance 
- Fragranced/scented with natural/naturally derived grapefruit and geranium oils
- Free of synthetic fragrance


• Real Results:


- 91% say it improves the look of foundation*** 
- 95% say it layers well with makeup, helping makeup apply smoothly and evenly** 
- 95% say it grips makeup for flawless application** 
- 93% say it leaves makeup looking fresh all day** 
- 98% say skin looks rejuvenated* 
- 96% say it leaves skin feeling nourished and conditioned* 
- 95% say skin looks vibrant* 
- 93% say it leaves skin feeling plumped* 
- 96% say it leaves skin looking healthy* 
- 96% say it leaves skin feeling moisturized throughout the day* 
- 95% say it leaves skin feeling healthy and infused with moisture* 
*Consumer testing on 123 women after one week of product use. 
**Consumer testing on 103 women after one week of product use. 

***Consumer testing on 94 women after one week of product use.

Made in USA

I feel like Bobbi Brown especially pushed skin prep...or at least I think she did in her books. This is a primer/moisturizer in one. So if they are two separate steps- you can combine them here. 

It's a thick cream that comes in a plastic tub. I was really hoping it would be glass- that would have made the packaging feel a bit more special, especially at its price point. You get 1.7 ounces of product which is a decent amount- but compared to the price...maybe not such a great deal.

I got it on sale and got quite a bit of money off. 

But back to the product itself. It's a thick yellow tinted cream that has a pleasant smell of a citrus or oranges. I really like the scent. It smooths on easily and make the skin look hydrated and perfectly prepped for the next step. I feel like it make the skin look healthy and slightly radiant but not too much on my oily skin. 

I have tried it with three different foundations and found it to work amazingly well for 2 out of the 3. I felt like my skin looked extra nice and the makeup wore well without looking greasy. The third foundation I tried it with I really dislike with or without primer- I have yet to review but I don't think anything can help it. 

I will say the ingredients really aren't my favorite and that's really the only thing that really gives me pause. There is all kinds ofdimethicone, glycols, acrylates, carbomer  and all the things I would rather avoid. . It does have some goodies though- like Shea Butter etc. 

Ingredients: 

Water\Aqua\Eau , Cyclopentasiloxane , Bis-Diglyceryl Polyacyladipate-2 , Butylene Glycol , Ppg-2 Myristyl Ether Propionate , Cetyl Alcohol , Peg-40 Stearate , Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) , Squalane , Glyceryl Stearate , Sorbitan Stearate , Epilobium Angustifolium Extract , Yeast Extract\Faex\Extrait De Levure , Beta-Carotene , Sodium Hyaluronate , Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Oil , Tocopheryl Acetate , Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate , Pelargonium Graveolens (Geranium) Flower Oil , Dimethicone Crosspolymer , Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer , Carbomer , Peg-20 Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate , C12-15 Alkyl Ethylhexanoate , Tetrasodium Edta , Sodium Hydroxide , Panthenol , Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate , Limonene , Citronellol , Geraniol , Linalool , Chlorphenesin , Phenoxyethanol <ILN39205>

There's not much else to say except that I really, really like it (except the ingredients.)  I think it might be in the top of primers that I have tried...it combines moisturizer and priming really well. It's something I could definitely see myself purchasing again and I would recommend giving it a try. 

Blinc Eyeshadow Primer Review

Summer is on its way. Which means- I need an eyeshadow primer. My eyelids eat eyeshadow. Even in the winter. But especially in the heat. I don't even think my makeup would last two hours without one. Concealer can work in a pinch- but I prefer a dedicated primer. I lost my last primer. it has to be somewhere in my apartment but for the life of me, I cannot find it. 

So I ordered this. I haven't seen this brand much...but I think I remember they made a tubing mascara back in the day. I'm too lazy to look it up now...so  we will go with that. 

Blinc claims: 

A CLEAN, VEGAN, GLUTEN-FREE, and ORGANIC translucent eyeshadow primer that creates a seamless, blurred canvas for all-day crease-free, smudge-proof, and fade-resistant wear while improving skin health and appearance.

WHY YOU'LL LOVE IT:

• Flawless Base: Fills surface imperfections for a smooth, blurred canvas that intensifies shadows and liners.
  
• Ultra-Longwearing: Keeps eyeshadow and liner in place all day without creasing, smudging, or fading.
  
• Pro-Age Skincare Benefits: Improves firmness, elasticity, and smoothness while brightening the delicate eye area.
  
• Lightweight Comfort: A breathable formula that feels weightless and comfortable for all-day wear.

KEY INGREDIENTS:

• Pro-Age Peptides: Enhance skin firmness, elasticity, and smoothness over time.
  
• Vitamin E: Provides antioxidant protection and hydration.
  
• Alaria Esculenta Extract: A natural marine ingredient that nourishes and revitalizes skin, promoting a youthful glow.

WHAT MAKES IT DIFFERENT:

• Clean Beauty Innovation: VEGAN, ORGANIC, GLUTEN-FREE, and formulated without harsh chemicals, delivering performance without compromise.
  
• Multi-Tasking Performance: Combines makeup primer benefits with skincare properties for healthier, younger-looking skin.
  
• Seamless, Skin-Friendly Wear: Perfect for those seeking minimalist, skin-conscious products that enhance both beauty and care.
  
• Made in USA

It comes in nice packaging. A nice box and is packaged kinda like a lip gloss. I like it. 

I don't ask a lot from my primers. I just want it to make my eyeshadow last all day. Maybe add a little vibrance to my colors. Make everything a little more pigmented. And be truly translucent.

I cannot stand a primer that claims to be translucent but dries looking a bit ashy and you can see it if I don't cover it completely. I think that is just a problem I have since my skin is a deeper color. But this does not do that. And I'm so happy it does not! 

I don't have any complaints with it. Except maybe it's a bit more on the pricier side. But overall, it's a solid product. 

Ingredients: 

Isododecane, Talc, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Triethylhexanoin, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract, Trihydroxystearin, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Dimethicone, Polyethylene, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, VP/Eicosene Copolymer, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride ,Phenoxyethanol, PEG-40 Stearate, Synthetic Beeswax, Propylene Carbonate, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Hexyl Laurate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Ethylhexylglycerin, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate,Alaria Esculenta Extract, Tribehenin, Ceramide NG, PEG-10 Phytosterol, Lactic Acid, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12, May Contain/Peut Contenir(+/-): Mica CI 77019, Bismuth Oxychloride CI 77163, Iron Oxides (CI 77492, CI 77491,CI 77499)

I would buy it again if I needed a primer and didn't always need to always try something new. If I ever made a ranking of primers, this would make the list- probably more towards to the top. 

MAC Prep + Prime 24 Hour Extend Eye Base Review

 I've been watching Julia. I don't find a terribly exciting or funny show but I'm more so watching it for the history. It broke barriers in that it was the first show to feature a professional black woman. I know it was criticized at the time for being more fantasy, but I think it was important to show people of color succeeding. Of course it was also shown at a time when they refused to green light showing a family- with a present father. That didn't come until later. It's crazy to think how far we've come.

Also. love Diahann Carol. I have always wanted to watch more of her filmography so that's where I started. 

But really we are here to chat make-up. Eye base in particular.

MAC claims:

Specially formulated to prolong the look of your eye makeup. This primer keeps eye makeup looking fresh and vibrant all day. Extends the wear of your eye shadow for up to 24 hours! This innovative new formula saves shadows from creasing and fading, while allowing hues to stay colour-true for up to a full day. Comfortable and lightweight, it is infused with the rich antioxidant vitamin E and is ideal for all skin tones and types.

MADE IN USA 

I have oily lids so primer is not a step I can skip. If I skip primer my shadow disappears in 1-2 hours and the creases are galore. I love eye makeup and most days go for a colorful look so skipping primer is a strong no. It's a must have! 

MAC prices are really getting up there. This is really pretty expensive for a primer- I'm sure I didn't pay $32 for it. I got a set of MAC primers on sale at Nordstrom- I still need to review them.

I have to say I was a bit disappointed in the packaging. I like a more concentrated tip- like the old Too Faced Shadow insurance used to have. This reminds me of the Lorac where you just blob a bit out. I think it's because it's a thicker primer though. 

It feels like it's heavily loaded with silicones and looking at the ingredient list- it is!

But it works.  I would say it works pretty well too. Most days my eyeshadow ends the way I put it on. But there are some stubborn colors in my collection that tend to crease and disappear even with this. But I would say 99% of the time it works and still extends the terrible quality shaodows past the wear of most other primers. It's just those particular shades. So I would say it greatly extends and keeps most of my shadows from creasing and fading. 

Ingredients:

Dimethicone, Isododecane, Talc, Dimethicone Silylate, Trihydroxystearin, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Kaolin, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Polyethylene, Vp/Eicosene Copolymer, Trioctyldodecyl Citrate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Lecithin, Bisabolol, Triethylhexanoin, Silica, Alumina, Propylene Carbonate, Ethylene/Methacrylate Copolymer, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Caprylyl Glycol, Stearic Acid, Glycyrrhetinic Acid, Peg-40 Stearate, Isopropyl Titanium Triisostearate, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499), Bismuth Oxychloride (Ci 77163) ILN40999 

Overall, I think it's great primer. I don't think it's my favorite and I'm not sure I would repurchase it- especially at full price. I wasn't "blown away".  A more affordable option would be the Milani eye primer- I prefer MAC because it goes on a bit more clear. 

Samples Review: Charlotte Tilbury Magic Water Cream, Guerlain Double Renew and Repair Advanced Serum, Guerlain Honey Treatment Day Cream

 Got my hands on another couple of samples. I feel like I used to do these type of posts more frequently because I used to get samples more often. Maybe it's because I am ordering less? Also more and more companies seem to have slowed down on samples. You can't really tell much from a sample review but I like to do them anyway- especially for things I would not be able to afford to try otherwise. 

Today we have: 

This seems like an OK thing to put on under makeup. It definitely emphasizes dewiness and glow which didn't really work for me when I used it in the summer. But it might be something I could like in the winter. Overall, the Charlotte Tilbury brand never really appealed to me...so I'm not sure I would actually purchase. Especially since the price for 1 little ounce is $65 which is expensive and I don't think it does anything that warrants that price. "Water" really does seem to be the new buzz word for skincare...seems so odd since it's something we all have access to. Is "water" in the title something that sells a product to you? 

Guerlain Double Renew and Repair Advanced Serum 

The price on this is nearly 200 Euro so probably not something I would ever buy...unless I won the lottery. It smelled nice...seemed luxurious. But not as luxurious as the price seems to suggest. My skin looked smooth and had a more matte radiance to it the next day. It's supposed to be lift- my skin isn't really saggy so I can't speak to that. Especially after only one use. I enjoyed the sample though...I bet the packaging on this is gorgeous if you buy the full size.

Guerlain Honey Treatment Day Cream

The retail price on this is $180. I'm sure the packaging is beautiful and I love that they use Honey- but that's expensive. I'm glad I have a little sample- even though you can't tell too much from such a tiny amount. I used mine under make-up...it was like any other cream. It has a mild, pleasant smell. Kinda reminds me of the L'occitane Shea Hand Cream. I liked the way make-up applies over it. I think it had everything sitting extra smooth. And it wore well- providing radiance but no greasiness. I like it...but that price. I probably won't ever get my hands on the full size. There are definitely products that can do the same thing for a much better price point but if you have it like that...could be a good buy. 

Sample Review: Plant Therapy Muscle Aide Body Cream, Guerlain Advanced Youth Watery Oil,

 Plant Therapy Muscle Aide- Tried this cream after I tricep workout that really left my them sore. And....it didn't really do much. Maybe I should have used more or really massaged it in? It smells like Wintergreen though, which I do like. It smells very medicinal. I did put a tiny bit on my knees (did a lot of squats) and I feel like it did help? If it wasn't just my imagination. On the fence on whether I would buy it.

Guerlain Advanced Youth Watery Oil

I didn't know Guerlain had skincare- probably because I wouldn't be able to afford it. It's not cheap- but the packaging looks so nice and it does smell like a luxury product. Also the reviews are really good for this. I can't tell what it really does with just one small sample. And this is a teeny sample. It's very hard to get out without wasting because it is so watery and a tiny amount. But what I did use smelled so nice ( subtle floral scent) and made my skin look nice, plump, and radiant. Possibly something I might buy if I was looking to splurge. I didn't deep dive into the ingredients- but I don't see anything too special except the honey though? 

Mac Stack Mascara 

I got this in my last MAC order....I have tried a few MAC mascara samples but I don't think I have ever used a full size. I did buy a full size one in my last order...but not this one. Their mascara's tend to be generally loved. I don't love this one. I tend to prefer the traditional brushes over the more modern ones. The old style just builds a lot of length and volume quickly. This is OK. I didn't like the brush at first...now it's just OK. I get average  length and volume but it takes a little longer to build and doesn't really get up to my full lash potential. I would probably still buy the full size...it might be different in the full size . Plus I want to experience the packaging. But yeah...it's alright. 

Milani Eyeshadow Primer Review

 So I watched Bridgerton Part II last night and it was much better than Part I ..but I don't think I will be watching the next season. I think that's it for me, mostly because I'm not into the new casting choice. But this part II....there were moments I loved but .I still can't get into Colin though, I don't think he's attractive and his acting was a bit performative, stiff, and unbelievable.  They did go a bit spicier than I was expecting, which was unexpected. The queen still sends me, I always love her hair and style. There were some part where I did tear up, I think I've just been extra emotional this past week or the scenes on friendship were just that touching Maybe after this post I will go and watch it again....

But eye primer! 

Milani claims:

• LIGHTWEIGHT, INVISIBLE PRIMER: Intensify the color of your favorite eyeshadow and increase its wear from day into night by adding our lightweight, crease-proof Eyeshadow Primer to your beauty arsenal. Our eyeshadow primer makes our eye shadow palettes pop with color! 
• WORKS ON ALL SKIN TONES: It goes on nude and dries invisibly; you’ll know it’s working by the professional and smooth look of your eyeshadow. 
• VEGAN, CRUELTY-FREE BEAUTY: Eyeshadow Primer is formulated to be the perfect base for your flawless style. Formula is vegan & never tested on animals. 
• TIPS & TRICKS: Swipe a small amount across each eyelid before applying eye makeup. Then choose your favorite eyeliner and eyeshadow shades to create a look that lasts all day. 
• WE ARE MILANI: Born in East LA, we've always been connected to the rich diversity of our neighborhood, because it’s a place that truly embodies the melting pot of Los Angeles. We're not inspired by couture and top models. Our passion is real people, living real lives. Beauty is for everyone. No matter who you are or where you come from, we're here to fuel your self-expression with makeup for every shade, attitude, and ethnicity. No judgment. No exceptions.

Made in USA

Eye primer is a necessity for my eyelids. Without it, my make up will NOT last. It will crease and fade off within 2-3 hours. I love eyeshadow and wear it most days so I have to have a decent primer. I have been hearing great things about this one for years- so when it was time to re-up, I went ahead and bought this. I had also heard great things about Milani and all these years later...here we are. 

I do think this is a great primer. It does exactly what I need it to do. My shadows last the whole day. It also goes on more pigmented and everything seems to blend the same as it would without a primer. It's not sticky feeling and it blends out clear- as long as I blend it enough. I don't like the primers that go on ashy and I have to make sure to cover every inch. 

I think it works perfectly- the only thing I notice is that my shimmer shadows don't necessarily go on as shimmery or popping as with other primers. I think that's down to it not being very sticky. 

I do like the packaging- it has a nice tip to squeeze the product out. I am not a fan of the lip gloss tips that some of these primers have. So they get points for that. 

It's unfragranced and you don't really smell it unless you sniff. It smells odd...but I only know that because I deliberately smelled it. It just smells like 'product".

Ingredients: 

Isododecane, Talc, Mica (CI 77019), Cyclopentasiloxane, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Trihydroxystearin, Polyethylene, Triethylhexanoin, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, VP/Eicosene Copolymer, Dimethicone, Dipalmitoyl Hydroxyproline, Phenoxyethanol, PEG-40 Stearate, Synthetic Beeswax, Propylene Carbonate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Water (Aqua ). +/- May Contain/PEUT CONTENIR: Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Bismuth Oxychloride (CI 77163), Iron Oxide (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499).

Overall, I like it. I think it might be the best drugstore eye primer...it's affordable and lasts forever. I haven't tried many drugstore primers but this would be the one I would highly recommend. 

Mac Fix+ Coconut Review

 I've had these sprays for a couple of years now...and finally just occurred to me to go ahead and review them. I ended up with two because one got lost in the mail, I contacted MAC, they sent out another one...it arrived and then a few weeks later the original package showed up. A couple years back I reviewed the original..I'll probably copy and paste a lot of that original review because I'm feeling a bit lazy.

MAC claims:

A lightweight mist of water packed with vitamins and minerals, infused with a blend of green tea, chamomile and cucumber to gently soothe and refresh the skin. Gives an instant boost of hydration while delivering a soft sheen to refresh and finish makeup. This holy grail of hydrating mists can be used with other products in near-endless ways – improve the wear of makeup, or moisturize and soothe tired skin. 

Made in USA

So you get just over 3 ounces of product $27 dollars. It's not a cheap spray. And especially when you consider it is mostly glycerin and water as ingredients and you can actually make a similar spray yourself MUCH cheaper. The only problem is preservatives but you can make a small batch and refrigerate.

The scent is OK. I wasn't a big fan of the original scent, it wasn't bad but it wasn't my favorite. I feel the same about this one. I probably wouldn't buy this one again, it doesn't smell like actual coconut, but an odd imitation coconut that you aren't quite sure is supposed to be Coconut, next time I will probably pick up the Rose or the Lavender. 

Sometimes I watch the MAC videos and I see they mostly like to use it to hydrate skin before make-up. I like to use it that way.....in the winter. In the summer I find it's too hydrating and makes my skin look very oily. But in the winter when I just need something lighter to take away slight dryness, this works perfectly. It is kinda of sticky and gives my skin too much shine in the warmer months.

I notice most people I've seen use it, tend to use it as a finishing spray to settle down a powdery finish. I do like to use it that way when my skin is more on the powdery side since the dry look is never cute. It works well for that. I do disagree with the claim that it makes your makeup last longer. I've tried it with some very short wearing foundations and I don't really notice too much of a difference.

Another way I see a lot of people use it is to wet the brush to make shadow have a sort of foiled appearance. I've used it that way. It works. And it works well. But for the price I can get a cheap bottle of Visine type eyedrops to do the same. Or even use water or a cheaper drugstore spray because at the price it is, it feels like I am "wasting" it when I use it that way. So I don't tend to use it to spray the brush. But it does work well for that! Above I used it with a brush-the first swatch is dry and the second I used Fix plus on the brush.

Ingredients:

Water\Aqua\Eau, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Extract, Camellia Sinensis  (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Coconut Fruit Extract, Algae Extract (two different types) Tocopheryl Acetate, Caffeine, Panthenol, Arginine, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Peg-26-Buteth-26, Fragrance (Parfum), Sodium citrate, Polydextrose, Caprylyl Glycol, Citric Acid,  Disodium Edta, Phenoxyethanol

I do like it. I just don't know if I like it at that price tag but here I am having already repurchase and very likely to try the other scents if ever get through these.

What's your favorite make-up spray?

Smashbox Photo Finish Super Light Smooth and Blur Primer Review

 I am a part of a makeup group for professionals and recently they were posting about how an artist was saying you don't need a primer. If you are a makeup artist you should use skin prep to prime the skin. Which I get. But I still think a nice primer is a quick and easy step to take....I like to keep my skin routine simple. Especially when I'm trying to get out the door. I don't have time to apply moisturizers, serums, etc and wait for it all to sink in. Especially with my oily skin. So...I'm a fan of primer. Although years back I didn't really see the point. 

Smashbox claims:

The Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer Light primer smooths the skin perfectly, prepares it for foundation and ensures your makeup lasts longer.

• softens
• fills pores
• prepares skin perfectly for foundation

Made in USA

It looks like Smashbox is revamping their primers. They seem to be dropping a line of more affordable primers. Which makes sense given all the competition and the economy. But why did they have to discontinue this one? 

That won't stop me from reviewing this one. I reviewed the original a few years back. And I liked that one....I might like this one more. I think it might be because of the texture? It's lighter and a little more gel like. I love that I can put my moisturizer on and then throw this on top and it kinda mattes it down without appearing matte? It looks healthy without looking greasy and continues to look that way throughout the day unless it's crazy humid, hot day. Even so I can tell the difference to if I apply this or now. 

It is smoothing and does smooth over pores. And if you take flash pictures, it really helps to perfect your skin and blur imperfections. 

It is the perfect canvas for foundation.

It does claim to extend the wear of your foundation....for me I don't particularly notice that. If you have a foundation that wears horribly this isn't going to improve it and if it does it's only slight. A long wear setting spray might be the way to go if you are really looking to extend wear. That and long wear products that wear well anyway.

It is pricey. And I do feel like you can easily get something comparable in the drugstore. I need to try more drugstore primers. I do like the ELF ones...but if I want to splurge I find these to be somewhat worth the money. 

Overall, I really love having it in my collection...I especially love having it in the summer of when I know I'm going to be in some flash pictures (not often). 

I would buy it again if it weren't discontinued.

Here I had a tinted moisturizer on, this primer, and was wearing it while in the water/heat and I feel like my skin was kinda glowy and not too greasy. Also, I just love when I get some sun, can't tell me nothing once I get the sun on my skin. 

Samples Review: Senna Cosmetics Soothing Primer, Senna Cosmetic Makeup Remover, MAC Prep+Prime Natural Radiance Base Primer

 Quick little post on some samples I've used up recently.. I don't have anywhere near the amount of samples I used to have. Maybe I'm just ordering less? Probably not. 

Senna Soothing Toner- I'm not big into toners. I know they are great for professional skin/makeup prep and returning your skins PH balance. But they mostly do a lot of nothing for me. So I tend to save my money. I will buy a hydrosol though. They are all natural and have multiple uses. This was nice, but not nice enough that I would spend the $32 on it. It has a light menthol scent. It was hydrating. No drying alcohols. I think it's one of the better toners with better ingredients than most you come across. It has Royal Jelly, Olive Extract, Chamomile, Grape Fruit Cell Extract, Green Tea Extract, Vitamin A and E, Pomegranate Extract, Fennell Extract, and Oat Root Extract. It it had a lower price I might be more likely to buy it.

Senna Makeup Remover- This remover is $30. I have never paid that much for a remover, but if I was going to, I would never get this. It doesn't work. It's less effective than just using water. It just smudged and smeared but did not remove and it took a while to get it to the smudge stage. Terrible. It boasts being oil free...but it's 2022, we aren't scared of putting oil on our skin anymore. I wouldn't even pay $2 for it.

MAC Prep+Prime Natural Radiance Base in Radiant Yellow

All my primers have been sitting unused. I've had this sample for a little while now. I've used it a few times now as well. It's a nice little sample for sure. I think it does do what it says...but that price tag. MAC used to be more affordable. Per MAC it's a "A silky gel primer for all skin types that is designed to hydrate and refine skin, while adding a luminous glow." I agree. It definitely adds a radiance to my skin that's apparent under makeup. Mostly it looks radiant with a little oil breakthrough...but not as bad as I thought it would be on my oily skin. I probably wouldn't purchase it though unless I was experiencing dull skin or had a foundation that really could use a boost of radiance. For now, I just don't need it. It does seem to smooth pores a little bit which is nice. Skin looks smoother and makeup does go on smooth as well.

Smashbox 24 Hour Photo Finish Shadow Primer Review

The one makeup product I absolutely hate buying but have to have at all times. Primer. At least eyeshadow primers last at least a year. Which is nice if you like it, not so much if you don't. And I don't like the Smashbox Primer. At all.

Smashbox claims:

A high-impact eye shadow primer that intensifies color and increases staying power for up to 24 hours. The sheer, translucent finish ensures smooth coverage and long-lasting eye makeup, through workouts and long days.

Made In Canada

The list price is $20. And that's entirely too much for a product that doesn't deliver. 

So I'll start with what I like....it's translucent. I don't have to worry about covering up a tint (looks like ash one me) , it smooths on easily and makes a slightly sticky base that seems like it would be good- for shimmers.

But nope. It doesn't intensify shimmers. They just look average. And matte shadows (mainly purple and blues) tend to oxidize and go on much deeper than they are with other primers or on their own. It also causes patchiness. I have darker patches of color in my crease especially, some of it will oxidize and looks straight up black (specially purples and blues). But unevenly. Matte shades stick to it and don't blend as easily or at all. And some it causes creasing. I thought it was my eyeshadow but then I put my go to primer (Too Faced Shadow Insurance, my fave!) on one eye and this on the other and the creasing and patchiness of the shadows were super obvious on the Smashbox side only. 

I don't think it prevents my shadow from fading or completely changing color by the end of the day. I put on a pink shadow that turned into a purple hot mess by the end of the day. It's a more difficult shadow anyway but this made it 10x worse.

As if that's not bad enough, I really dislike the packaging. The tip of it is just a big open hole. I wish it was more like the Too Faced Shadow Insurance tip. This just looks sloppy and cheap.

I almost forgot...I did watch a review from someone that loved it. And she mentions that she sets the primer. I don't have a translucent powder so I tried with my setting powder and a skin-tone eyeshadow  and that made the shadows muddy, more faded and they still creased in 2 seconds. Even if it had worked I still wouldn't have liked this primer because who needs an extra step when in a rush or even an extra product (costs even more money, I am not buying a translucent powder to try!).

It could be that the primer is largely incompatible with my shadows- maybe they only work with Smashbox or talc free shadows. But I need a product that works no matter the formula or brand.

I don't know much about ingredients as they pertain to primers- this one does have cones in it (Dimethicone) and I had read that it's a no no for eyeshdaow primers. I don't know if it's the cones, I'm sure some of the primers I've used in the past contain it...but maybe not.

Ingredients:

DIMETHICONE, ISODODECANE, TALC, DIMETHICONE SILYLATE, TRIHYDROXYSTEARIN, DISTEARDIMONIUM HECTORITE, KAOLIN, HYDROGENATED POLYISOBUTENE, POLYETHYLENE, VP/EICOSENE COPOLYMER, TRIOCTYLDODECYL CITRATE, TOCOPHERYL ACETATE, LECITHIN, TRIETHYLHEXANOIN, BISABOLOL, SILICA, ALUMINA, ETHYLENE/METHACRYLATE COPOLYMER, PROPYLENE CARBONATE, SORBITAN SESQUIOLEATE, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL, STEARIC ACID, GLYCYRRHETINIC ACID, PEG-40 STEARATE, ISOPROPYL TITANIUM TRIISOSTEARATE, PENTAERYTHRITYL TETRA-DI-T-BUTYL HYDROXYHYDROCINNAMATE, MICA, TITANIUM DIOXIDE (CI 77891), IRON OXIDES (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499), BISMUTH OXYCHLORIDE (CI 77163) <ILN40419>

So overall, I really disliked the primer. It's one of the worst ones I've tried. I will probably keep it just to use when I'm playing in make up or not going out anywhere. I should just throw it out though...

NYX HD Studio Photogenic Eyeshadow Base Review

 Remember when the Urban Decay Primer Potion was THE shadow primer? It seems like it was just everywhere at least a decade ago. It was the very first primer I tried. But it didn't really work that well on my eyelids. I wouldn't call my lids oily but shadows don't really stick and stay. And when it gets hot and humid shimmery shades tend to crease and then disappear altogether. So I'll probably be shadow primer user for life.

NYX claims:

Prep your eyelids with NYX Professional Makeup HD Eyeshadow Base. This lightweight eye shadow base primer makes skin appear smoother, more even, and ensures lasting eye makeup application with less creasing when applied to the eyelids before pigments. Excellent for increasing the longevity and payoff of your pigments and eyeshadows, this eyeshadow base primer is a must-have for your pro makeup kit.

This packaging is definitely different than other primers. Most of the ones I have tried have been in a small squeeze tube. This is like a lipgloss applicator. I like it. It may not be as hygienic as the squeeze tubes seem to be but that doesn't really bother me. 

 

When I first opened it, I was a little scared because I thought it was one of those primers with some color to it. Those typically tend to stand out and look ashy on my skin tone and I have to be careful to really cover it all so as not have have little ashy spots. But luckily this blends in and disappears. There seems to be a lot of product. It's easy to apply (sometimes quite a bit comes out) and easy to blend in.

 And it works.

My shadow really stays put for hours and hours! No creasing. 

I do notice that some shadows that are prone to fading still do fade. And it's not a primer that enhances the look of shimmery shades. So it's not perfect. But it keeps my shadow presentable. 

It doesn't affect blending at all. Some primers are sticky and when you put shadow on top it really sticks and is hard to blend out what you applied. None of that here!

It's affordable at $7. And NYX is sold almost everywhere. It's no longer hard to find like it was back in the day.

It's supposed to stay good for 18 months after opening. 

NYX is made in China. Which I always mention because a lot more drugstore brands than I realized are made in the US. NYX is not one of them and I always think it's worth noting. 

Overall, I really like it and it's one I would recommend for sure. 

UPDATE: I just noticed on the package that it has a warning stating it's flammable...I went to check my newest primer and no warning...probably wouldn't buy it again or recommend now. Just thought it was worth mentioning! 

MAC Prep and Prime Fix + Review

I bought this spray in attempt to get out of the MAC rut I sometimes get in. I buy the brushes mostly and for a second I was buying the eyeshadows. But MAC has a lot more to offer than just brushes. And I haven't been wanting the brushes as much since they switched to all synthetic anyway. So the last MAC sale I bought outside of what I normally buy. I bought the Fix+ spray. It's extremely popular on Youtube and I think the very first spray that started the spray craze. These days the drugstore offers a multitude of sprays. I will probably try those out once I finally use this one up. 

MAC claims:

A lightweight mist of water packed with vitamins and minerals, infused with a blend of green tea, chamomile and cucumber to gently soothe and refresh the skin. Gives an instant boost of hydration while delivering a soft sheen to refresh and finish makeup. This holy grail of hydrating mists can be used with other products in near-endless ways – to improve the wear of makeup, or moisturize and soothe tired skin. A delicious twist in a permanent romantic rose scent, calming lavender scent, or creamy coconut scent

So you get just over 3 ounces of product $27 dollars. It's not a cheap spray. And especially when you consider it is mostly glycerin and water as ingredients and you can actually make a similar spray yourself MUCH cheaper. 

The scent is OK. I'm not crazy about the scent but these days it is offered in a couple different scents to include Lavender, Coconut, and Rose. 

Sometimes I watch the MAC videos and I see they mostly like to use it to hydrate skin before make-up. I like to use it that way.....in the winter. In the summer I find it's too hydrating and makes my skin look very oily. But in the winter when I just need something lighter to take away slight dryness, this works perfectly. 

I notice most people I've seen use it, tend to use it as a finishing spray to settle down a powdery finish. I do like to use it that way when my skin is more on the powdery side since the dry look is never cute. It works well for that. I do disagree with the claim that it makes your makeup last longer. I've tried it with some very short wearing foundations and I don't really notice too much of a difference.

Another way I see a lot of people use it is to wet the brush to make shadow have a sort of foiled appearance. I've used it that way. It works. And it works well. But for the price I can get a cheap bottle of Visine type eyedrops to do the same. Or even use water. So I don't tend to use it to spray the brush. But it does work well for that! Above I used it with a brush-the first swatch is dry and the second I used Fix plus on the brush.

Ingredients:

Water\Aqua\Eau, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Caffeine, Panthenol, Arginine, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Ppg-26-Buteth-26, Fragrance (Parfum), Disodium Edta, Phenoxyethanol

I do like it. I just don't know if I like it at that price tag. I can probably get by making my own spray-which I have done. Or even just using a plant hydrosol. I do want to try the other scents...but I don't really want to buy it at that price tag. 

What's your favorite spray?

Samples Review: MAC Pro Eye Makeup Remover, Bare Minerals Faux Tan Face, Makeup Forever Smoothing Primer

We will just call this  post a little extra stress relief. And also I need to go ahead and throw some of these little sample jars away. 

Jumping right in...

1. MAC Pro Eye Makeup Remover- Coconut Oil is my go to for removing all makeup. It never fails. Unlike this. I got this little sample about a year ago in a little order. I used half, then completely forgot I had it until I was digging around in a drawer. I think it's discontinued now. I can only find the little samples on the MAC website. But they might still be selling it in the discount stores. So long story short...it sucks. I was using it to remove L'oreal Voluminous Waterproof and it got some off. But most of it was still on my lashes. Discontinued for a reason. Also it was probably grossly overpriced.

Stings my eyes too.

2. Bare Minerals Faux Tan Face Gradual Sunless Tanner- Another discontinued product. I've had this for a long time too. But I'm the last person that needs a gradual tanner. I'm already brown. And any extra color, I like to get directly from the sun. For free. That's not always possible in the winter, so a little powder bronzer can do the same thing. I did use it a couple times. It has a strange green tinge to it, but that didn't really show up on my skin. I guess it gave me a little color, but nothing I would buy. And probably not really marketed to me in the first place.

3. MakeUp Forever Step 1 Equalizer  Smoothing Primer- Annnnd finally a product that is not discontinued. This primer kind of reminds me of Benefits Porefessional Primer. I wasn't a fan of that and I don't like Benefit as a brand. This is a little better. Kind of. It smoothed pores a little. It's supposed help with fine lines, but luckily I still don't have any of those. And hopefully won't until I'm well into my fifties. It didn't really help my makeup stick any better. But it did seem to keep my skin matte instead of looking like an oil slick in the heat. I don't know if I would by the full size. I think I would buy the primer for deep skin before this one. 

Random: This song popped up and it just reminded me so much of life in the 90's. I used to sit in my brothers room as a kid and watch Rugrats, All That, Kenan and Kel, and Are You Afraid of the Dark and I remember seeing Coolio a lot. I think they played the music video or he was a guest on one of the shows or he sang the theme song. Something. Y'all remember this song?

Samples Review: MAC Prep+Prime Skin Base Visage, Hum Green Superfood Powder, Replica Maison Marginal Perfume

It's that time again. Time to pull out the samples and get reviewing. I don't get as many samples anymore, since I haven't really been ordering a lot of cosmetics...I'm really focusing on using what I already have...go me!

MAC Prep+ Prime Skin Base Visage 

I really need to branch out and sample more MAC products. I mostly have MAC lipsticks and eyeshadows and haven't tried much else by them, so I was kind of excited to try this out. I don't have any primers at the moment since I've used them all up and wanted to use all the samples I have before I purchase another. This is a light lotion like texture, doesn't make my skin oily, and maybe makes my makeup last a tad longer. I don't get "radiance" from it and I don't think it makes my foundation go on any smoother. I don't think it's worth $31 an ounce but it was cool to try free. 

HUM Raw Beauty Green Superfood Powder: Mint Chocolate Chip Infusion 

I was shocked that Sephora sells a superfood powder. It makes sense, but I think it's more of a food product. I'm a firm believer the way you age and the way your skin looks has a lot to do with what you eat and making sure you are properly hydrated with water/tea etc. When I drink green smoothies or even just apple cider mixed into water, I notice a difference in my skin. That being said, I'm not a big supplement fan. I would rather just try to eat lot of fruits/veggies (I struggle with veggies) and get my nutrients that way. I don't buy super food powders- but I thought it would be fun to try it out. It's...not that good. Since it's mint chocolate chip I didn't want to mix it into a smoothie and ruin all my fruit, and water sounded boring, so I added it to milk. It was clumpy and didn't want to mix. It really didn't look very appealing. It tasted like mint chocolate- but it also had a strange taste to it. I would prefer plain milk. Not for me. I'll stick to plain smoothies with kale, sometimes chia or flax. Save your $39 and buy real food.

Replica Maison Margiela Perfume

The first thing I can tell you about this perfume is it cost $180. The next thing, I can tell you is it smells really good. I don't know about $180 good. But I do like it. I wish it came in a 1 ounce bottle that way I could maybe/possibly afford it. It smells really floral/fresh/citrusy and really clung to me ALL DAY. I can smell lemons and citrus. It just smells really really great. I kind of want it. I did buy a new perfume though....and will hopefully have a review of that going up soon. I can already tell you I like the Replica fragrance more.