Showing posts with label makeup

Beauty in Review: Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick

in , , , , , , by RoyallyPink, 4:00 AM

There is nothing I love more than a foundation stick. It's the easiest, most seamless beauty product to use and makes putting makeup on a breeze. Once you find a good foundation stick, your life will be changed, I promise that.

I've tried so many foundation sticks over the years, and while I've loved a lot I don't know if I've ever had a love quite like this.

The Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick has been around for ages and is one of their better known products (in my opinion) but I had never tried it. Months ago, I was shopping in the Company Store at work -- I work for Estee Lauder who owns Bobbi Brown and we have a store in our office that has all of our brands -- and felt the need to spend some money.

I was craving a new foundation and figured I could use a new foundation stick since I was getting bored of my Hourglass one (which I still love). I swatched the Bobbi Brown one and was immediately sold. The first time I used it on my face, I was in shock. 

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Beauty in Review: Makeup That Didn't Work For Me

in , , , , , , , by RoyallyPink, 6:30 AM
In 2018, I kind of lost my love of beauty buying. There are so many products being released on a daily basis, some are overhyped, some are items we've seen so many times before -- truthfully, it got a little overwhelming. I was overwhelmed by everything in my collection and needed a break.

However, that doesn't mean that I stopped buying altogether. I definitely found new favorites through my shopping endeavours but I also found some duds.

I think it's important to look back at items you've purchased and see what worked and what didn't. If you know what you like, that's an easy task. If not and you're more indecisive, choosing what didn't work can be a little more difficult. I find myself somewhere in the middle.

I want to like everything I purchase but sometimes, they just don't work for me. Whether it's a texture or color thing, or if I had an allergic reaction, I'm semi-good at knowing immediately when something doesn't work for me. I'm also pretty good at returning the things I absolutely hate.

The last time I did a post like this was in August 2016. I've disliked a lot of beauty products since then and I figured it was time to lay it all out there.

*A note on the last post: I said I didn't like the Too Faced Born This Way Foundation & Concealer. I actually got these again somehow and I completely changed my mind. I am obsessed with this foundation and concealer now. The foundation I still have, the concealer I went through a while ago. Maybe I will do another post on this but just wanted to say it's possible to change your mind about products!  

Products That Didn't Work


makeup that didn't work-royally pink-beauty blogger

Fenty Gloss Bomb

Everyone has been obsessed with this lipgloss since it was released but I just got around to picking it up. They say it's to most amazing lipgloss they have ever tried and I have to strongly disagree. This was the stickiest gloss I've tried in a while and it made my lips feel utterly gross. I haven't had this negative of a feeling about a beauty product in a long time. It was thick, heavy, and so sticky. I felt like it was 2000 and I was putting a lip smackers on my lips, and not in a good way.

If you want a nonsticky lipgloss, try the Laura Geller Nude Kisses or Bite Beauty French Press Lipgloss.

Ouai Son of a Beach

I included Son of a Beach in my June Beauty Favorites but that was extremely premature. I thought I liked this but it really was dumb on my part. It did nothing to my hair and that could just be because my hair is too dark for it to work. I returned it because it definitely was an impulse purchase and pretty useless to me. 

Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal Shampoo

I love Briogeo as a brand and I've loved every product I've ever tried from them... until now. I was dealing with a really bad dry scalp (as usual) and was desperate for something new to help me. I figured a Briogeo Scalp Shampoo was the right choice... I was wrong. I used this shampoo twice and it made my hair feel disgusting. My hair was incredibly knotty, greasy, and it did nothing for my scalp. I'm glad I only bought a mini size but I was so disappointed that it didn't work! 

Bite Beauty Agave Lip Balm

Bite Beauty is one of my favorite lip brands and the Agave Lip Balm is one of their most famous, well-known products. I tried this out at the beginning of 2018 or end of 2017 and I tried to love it, but I just didn't. It irritated my lips and was so thick, it didn't glide on as easily as other lip balms. I felt like I had to press hard on my lips to get a good swipe and that is not how a lip balm should be.

If you want a hydrating, easy to glide lip balm, try the MILK Kush Lip Balm or Fresh Sugar Lip Treatments.  

Marc Jacobs Enamored Lipgloss in Sugar Sugar

Oh boy... this one has me HEATED! Similar to the hype around the Fenty Gloss Bomb, everyone and their mother raves about the Marc Jacobs Lipglosses, specifically the shade "Sugar Sugar". I've been intrigued by them for years but never purchased; thankfully, I was able to get a deluxe sample from Sephora with a purchase last year and I was so excited! I couldn't wait to finally be part of the "Sugar Sugar" club... my experience was horrible. Why does everyone like this gloss? It was goopy, patchy, and so sticky! I threw it in the garbage after one use because I never wanted it near my lips again.

What are the beauty products you've purchased that didn't work for you? Share in the comments below!


 xoxo
B
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Summer Beauty Wishlist | 2018

in , , , , , , , by RoyallyPink, 6:30 AM
Nowadays there are always new beauty products being released from all different brands -- heck, there are new brands popping up every day. It's almost too much to keep up with, to keep track of but it's also really exciting.

With every launch comes a new innovation; brands are always coming up with something that we've never seen before, or their own take on a current trend.

Either way, I get super excited for new launches, even if it's something as similar as an eyeliner.

Something else that brings up excitement for me is the beginning of a new season. In my opinion, the best launches happen at the beginning of a season and I think summer is super exciting. There are all different SPF products, new makeup technologies and just a bunch of other fun stuff.

Out of all the launches that have happened so far this season, below is what I'm most excited for.




Ole Henkrison Cold Plunge Pore Mask: Put anything 'cold plunge' in a name and I'm going to want to try it. The description for this pore clearing mask is that it's supposed to mimic the feeling of a Scandinavian cold plunge, immersing your skin in pure ice. I want to experience that so badly! It sounds so refreshing in the summer heat and I can't wait to get my hands on this mask.

Flesh Foundation Stick: Flesh is a new brand under the Revlon umbrella and the big thing about this is that there are over 40 foundation stick shades in the first release. Nowadays, that is a super big deal. I took a look on Ulta's website and Flesh is coming out with a lot of new products that look really cool. I love a foundation stick so I am excited to try this new one out.

Dior Backstage Foundation: For someone who doesn't wear a lot of foundation, this is the 2nd foundation on this list. It was released this week and The Coveteur did a special article on it. It was identified as the foundation that Meghan Markle wore on her wedding day and that is all the reason I need to purchase something.

Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Anti-Pollution Sunshine Serum: This is a little bit of a cheat because I already purchased this item and it's en route to me. This was a launch that I actually wrote down in my calendar and was super giddy about. It's a bronzed serum that has anti-pollutant properties to protect your skin from environmental stressors. Pollution protective products are going to be having a moment starting now and I'm all in on them. I will report back on this product as soon as I fully test it!

Sephora After Sun Sheet Mask: This product isn't super new and has been in my Sephora shopping cart a few times. After being super sunburned and exhausted from the sun this weekend, I think my skin really could've used this mask. It's a good product to have in your arsenal this summer.

 What beauty launches are you excited for?
xoxo
B


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Spring Trends + Fashion & Beauty | 2018

in , , , , , , , , , , by RoyallyPink, 7:00 AM
It's officially one of my least favorite seasons. My time of the year is over and it's the other people's turn.

That's ok because once Christmas is over, I'm a little bit over winter as well. We've been hit with some weird AF weather lately here in New York, but I have a feeling even though Spring is here, that won't be going away.

I am a little sick of wearing my boots and I'm ready for a pair of ballet flats. I also am over my big winter jackets and just want to wear a denim jacket. So I guess in a way, I'm ready for spring. I also really want an iced coffee and I refuse to drink them in the winter.

I have weird rules.

When spring comes, there are always new trends to try and things to buy and I'm feeling the burn.

Right now, there are so many wearable trends, both in fashion and beauty. I'm kind of obsessed with all of them, at least the ones that I'm going to talk to you about today.



Fashion:

  • Mules: This is a trend that we're recycling from last fall and I'm ready for it now. I already picked up these Gucci dupes from Target and I need the all leather pair ASAP. 
  • Flowers: Florals for Spring, groundbreaking! But really, it is groundbreaking. I don't think I've seen florals for a while, and this season it's all about flowers. This trend is very present in Kate Spade's latest collection for March; there are flowers everywhere! I usually hate flowers but I'm feeling it this year.
  • Satin: Another trend leftover from fall -- satin. We saw satin & velvet all through fall and winter and we're continuing that. I don't have anything satin, but I know I want to try something. Maybe a nice satin shirt will make it's way into my collection this season. 
  • Kitten Heels: I never thought I'd see this trend come back but I guess everything returns at some point. I don't know how I feel about this one, though. I want to like it because I hate wearing heels so maybe a kitten heel would do me some good? I might try it! Stay tuned.
  • White Shoes: This isn't a trend I could pull off but I love how it looks on another people. Katey McFarlan/Hellman wore white booties in a blog post last week and she rocked them HARD. I love this! 


  • Mini Bags: Now we're talking my language. I have a lot of mini bags in my collection but these circle bags are all the rage and I'm loving how people are styling them. Mini bags have been around for a while and I don't think they'll be going anywhere soon.


Beauty:

  • Glitter: Glitter is everywhere and I LOVE IT. I love some glitter in my life and it's bringing back so much nostalgia for me. I think glitter on the eyes or even in your highlight can be done really tastefully.
  • Rose Gold/Gold Highlighters: Is this a new trend? I saw it everywhere on every trends list but I feel like I've been rocking this for years! Well, if you haven't, welcome to the best thing ever. I love rose gold & gold highlighters and I don't think there is much else that I wear. They go with every look and add a bit of piazz to your look.
  • Ultra Violet: Pantone named Ultra Violet the color of the year, so obviously you're going to see it everywhere and anywhere. You can incorporate this with other shades of purple, and use it in your eyeshadow, eyeliner, lips, or even your blush. Get creative with it! It's a wearable color while still being a little fun and different. 


  • Glossy Lips: Glossy lips are BACK! I love my matte lips so much, and I'll still be rocking my Kylie Lip Kits till the day I die, but I'm feeling the glossy lips. I have never been a gloss person but I have found a new formula that I cannot get enough of. I can't tell you what they are YET but I recommend tuning in for my favorites post next week to find out.
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Beauty in Review: Fenty Beauty Match Stix

in , , , , , , , , , , , by RoyallyPink, 4:05 PM
When Fenty Beauty was being buzzed about, I don't think I was as excited as everyone else in the beauty world. I didn't really get why it was being talked about the way it was being talked about. I mean, I get that it's Rihanna's makeup line and Rihanna is BOSS but to me, it was just another brand.

That is until it launched and I saw all the hype. I mean, 40 foundation shades at the initial launch? YES.

After a few Youtube videos, I was intrigued and started browsing the Sephora website. Once I saw what Fenty was all about, I was in on it. I loved the fact that it was so heavy on the complexion while still having some color with the blush and highlight shades, both in compact and stick form.

I liked the fact that she had only one lip, because lip is more universal than foundation.

I was also in on Fenty after I saw the price tags. I mean, $25 for one Match Stix? YES. To me, that's a decent price for a new brand in Sephora, especially a brand as hyped up as Fenty; especially when Rihanna is behind it.

I wasn't in on the liquid foundation because I'm in between shades and really don't need another foundation (also, the reviews aren't that great for dry skin and my skin is getting super dry as the weather gets colder)

As intriguing as the blush and highlighters were, I knew that I didn't need any more at that moment (and at this moment) so I opted for the Match Stix in a shade that would work as a foundation and concealer.




My on the go makeup bag (which really means my work makeup bag) needed some help in the complexion category and I needed something that would be easy to apply and that I could do without thinking. I thought the Match Stix was perfect!



I got the shade Bamboo which I think is pretty decent for me (I never have trouble shade matching online. Maybe it has to do with the fact that I work at a makeup brand so I know the difference in shades, but it just is something I don't struggle with).

When the stick arrived, I was impressed. The packaging is super cute and weighty without being too heavy. The pale pink is super cute and I love the fact that it's magnetic so it can click to other Match Stix.

The formula is a little dry but I heard Emily Noel say she added a bit of oil to her face beforehand and it worked great. That doesn't bother me though because it blends out really nicely and offers a decent amount of coverage.

The Match Stix is defined as a matte stick formula to correct, conceal, contour, and touch up so it basically does everything and I can attest to that.

I used it as a foundation and concealer and it covered everything up nicely while giving me a nice, even finish to my skin. It definitely is a matte formula but doesn't dry my skin out.

I've been using it pretty consistently for the past few weeks since I got it and I love it. I blend it out with my Elf Blending Brush and it works like a dream.

I definitely would like to get a darker shade for contour and even the blush/highlight shade in Sinamon.

I'm not too crazy about the Fenty holiday collection but I am excited to see what else they have in store for us!

 Have you tried Fenty Beauty yet? What were your thoughts?
xoxo
B
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Beauty 101: The Best Tinted Moisturizers

in , , , , , , , , , , , by RoyallyPink, 6:30 AM
When it comes to makeup, I've never been a full coverage kind of gal. My skin is not that bad and it's pretty dry so I lean toward more medium coverage, radiant foundations. However, during the summer, I usually don't wear any foundation at all.

It melts off my face as soon as I step outside and continues to annoy me as I sit on the hot subway. During the hot months (or even when I'm running super late) I tend to stick to light coverage 'foundations' and tinted moisturizers.

The thing I love about tinted moisturizers is that they can be applied quickly and easily. There is no need for a brush or sponge, using your hands is just fine.

They also provide just the right amount of coverage without feeling heavy or tacky on the skin. I also think there is enough of a range amongst the beauty community that you can find a tinted moisturizer that fits your skin tone and type.

This summer tinted moisturizer was the only thing I wore with the exception of a few days where I went full foundation (or sans foundation completely)

These were my must-have tinted moisturizers of the summer *and pretty much of all time up until this point*




1. Laura Geller Quench-n-Tint: If you haven't figured out by now, I work for Laura Geller (I don't know if I've ever posted that on here but it's public knowledge). When I found out that we were releasing this product, I could hardly contain my excitement. This is for sure one of my favorite products we've ever released. It's a very, very light weight, almost sheer, but really evens out and hydrates the skin. You have to feel this to believe it (go to Ulta now and try it) but when applied, there is a release of hydration and it feels like you're splashing water on your face, and it's amazing. It was my most worn product of the summer for sure.

2. NARS Tinted Moisturzer: I don't know if I would classify this as a tinted moisturizer but I figured I'd mention it anyway.  I have talked about this before in my May favorites and it's stood the test of time. It's a fuller coverage tinted moisturizer but doesn't feel like an actual foundation. It's the only complexion product I've tried from NARS and it's definitely a favorite and must try!

3. Bare Minerals Complexion Rescue: This was a purchase from last summer and it's still a favorite right now. It has SPF in it which is ideal for summer (and all year round really) and is a cross between the NARS and Laura Geller. It has good coverage but feels incredibly light weight on the skin. This can 100% be applied with your hands but if you want a little more coverage, you can build it up with a sponge or brush. This was one of the first tinted moisturizers I really took a liking too and it remains one of my favorites.

 What is your favorite tinted moisturizer? 
xoxo
B
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How to Have the Best Spring

in , , , , , , , , , , , by RoyallyPink, 6:00 AM
Happy Friday! I'm very excited for the week to come to the end and for the weekend to arrive because I'm going to Florida on Tuesday! It's for a work trip but I'm so excited to travel SOMEWHERE. I'm also going to Disneyworld so YAYYYYYY. It's the first time I've been in 10 years so I'm uber pumped.

On that note, I'll try to pre-write as much as I could and I will have some downtime so I'll get in a few posts if I can't write this weekend.

Be sure to follow me on social media, all my handles are @bribrilukes, as I'll be documenting the trip. Also, I'll be vlogging (YAY) so you'll have some videos when I come back. If you haven't subscribed to my Youtube channel, subscribe now, please & thank you!

Now, onto the real reason we are here... let's talk about spring! Now, onto the real reason we are here... let's talk about spring! I was introduced to the excited team at iRazoo a few weeks ago and their paid surveys, games and video options, got me thinking about Springtime inspiration and all the things there are to do and try out; so here we go!

Spring is not my favorite season and I dread it every year, but once it rolls around I'm happy to have it. I love light jacket or no jacket weather, a mild breeze with 60-70 degree weather, and just being comfortable. Not hot, not cold, just right.

It's the summer I truly hate and I should stop lumping the seasons together because they are not alike.

We haven't had too much spring here in New York; there's been lots of rain and windy weather but I'm sure things will turn around soon.



On that note, there are many ways to make the most out of spring, even if the weather isn't ready to follow.

1. Revamp your makeup routine: I love to do this whenever the seasons change. I start to use more tinted moisturizers, lighter eyeshadow colors, more 'minimal makeup' and try out a bolder color lip, like pink or coral. My favorite thing to do is switch out my nail polishes. I'm currently wearing a hot pink that will hopefully make it's way into Manicure Monday at some point. After wearing so many dark colors, I'm really excited to wear hot pinks, neon coral, and bright blue!

2. Wardrobe Change: I love fall and winter clothes so much, but I do like not wearing a jacket. In spring, I like to break out light sweaters and ballet flats; it's pretty much my go-to. I just purchased some new clothes and shoes from J.Crew and finally bought a jean jacket so I'm excited for that. I think changing up your wardrobe and buying a few new pieces to add to your collection is a great way to ensure a good spring.



3. Plan a road trip/fun plans: The key to being 'happy' during any season is making plans, I'm pretty sure of that. Once spring rolls around I like to plan something, whether it's a baseball game, a brunch, or a small road trip to another state. Having plans throughout the weeks will guarantee peace of mine and a good spring season.

4. Redecorate: Ever since moving into my new house and having my own room again I've been really into interior design. I loved decorating for fall and Christmas and I've loved transitioning my room to spring. With lighter color pillows, and blankets, new candles, and a few other fun trinkets. It's a great way to put yourself in the spring mood!

Open the windows, throw on a denim jacket, and put on some pink lipstick because spring is here!

 Have a great weekend everyone!
xoxo
B
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Weekly Wrap Up: Week 1

in , , , , , , by RoyallyPink, 7:30 AM
We've made it through the first week of 2017, and to the first Friday of the new year. I have to say, I like 2017 so far & I really hope I didn't just jinx it. I've been contemplating a lot after writing my 2017 Goals & reading a lot of other bloggers goal/resolutions post.

I want to make a splash this year, and not just say I'm going too. I feel like I've been waiting for something to happen, and I'm just not sure how to make it happen. I have so many goals & aspirations, I just don't know where to begin. It's sort of frustrating in a way.

I guess I should just write everything down... not type it out on my computer or in a blog post, but take one of the 100 notebooks I have and write down the goals. Hmm... what to do, what to do.

With my big goals on my mind, not much has changed in 2017 because I'm currently laying in bed, watching Gilmore Girls. The only thing that is really different is that I'm in my new, comfortable Victoria Secret's robe. Please go get it, it's the best thing to ever happen to me.

2017-weekly wrap up-links to love
Credit

Here is what I loved this week:


What you missed this week:


Have a great weekend!

xoxo
B
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Beauty in Review: Master Palette by Mario

in , , , , , , by RoyallyPink, 7:00 AM
I've cut back on beauty buying lately. My shopping has decreased significantly but I just don't feel the need to shop for beauty items as much as I did a few months ago.

I haven't stopped completely; there will always be items that come out that catch my eye, that I need to have, and that I count down the days till they are released.

The Master Palette by Mario from Anastasia Beverly Hills was one of those items. When I found out months ago on Instagram that Mario was releasing a palette, I knew I'd need it.

If you don't know, Mario is the Kardashian's makeup artist, mostly Kim's and he does beautiful work. He is truly an artist & one of the best in the business. When the best partners up with the best aka Anastasia (her shadows are heavenly, spoiler alert), you know you're going to get something good.




The packaging is the regular Anastasia packaging, cardboard with a pretty good mirror & an excellent brush. It does feel a lot sturdier than the Self Made palette which I purchased last year, which soon fell apart and I had to depot all the shadows. This is definitely more high quality!

This palette came with 14 shadows, all brand new & curated by Mario himself. The palette colors are GORGEOUS! They're all neutral (which are my favorite), with some gorgeous mattes and pretty shimmers. The pigment payment and blend-ability of all shadows are really superb.






Anastasia makes some of the best shadows out there, and even though I have some of her single shadows and purchased a palette, I think these are the best so far.

My favorite shades are NYC, Kim, Muse, and Paris -- they are very warm, but still have a pop of color. I'm obsessed.

(Also, who else isnt surprised he named a shade Kim, I mean, COME ON! I love it!)

Even though you get mostly warm neutrals, you have a few great matte, transition shades, a gorgeous highlight that can be used for the brow bone in "Hollywood", and Claudia & Bronx are muted pops of color.

All in all, this palette is a really great buy. It's has a moderately high price tag, but you are paying for the quality of the shadows and packaging. I really haven't reached for another palette for the past month, because it has a really good group of shades and you can make a slew of different looks.

Now, the problem is that this is limited edition; It's available RIGHT NOW on Ulta.com (check your local stores as well). It is however, listed as out of stock on Sephora and Macys, which could mean that it will be restocked, but if you can't get it at Ulta, try all your local stores (Sephora, Ulta, Macys, etc!)

I highly suggest/demand that you buy this palette before it's gone. If you don't like it, you can always return it but I DOUBT that you will NOT like it.
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Brand Buzz: PUR Cosmetics

in , , , , , , by RoyallyPink, 6:30 AM
I love a lot of makeup brands, but mostly they're the ones that everyone else loves. I'm not against trying new brands, and this is how I came across PUR Cosmetics.

PUR was always around, and I always saw it in stores & online. It used to be known as PUR Minerals, but has gone through a rebrand recently, and that's how PUR Cosmetics was born.

I discovered them around 1-2 years ago, because I was contacted by them, and they asked if I wanted to try one of their new products, and that was the Cameo Contour stick. Soon after, I was placed on their PR list & started to receive more goodies from them.

That's a real dream come true; being contacted by a huge brand and receiving their products for free! Since then, I've bought a lot of PUR products and haven't received a lot, but that's fine because I like the products so much, I'm 100% willingly to pay for them.

I've tried some great products, some good products, and some not so good products from the brand, and I've been wanting to tell you all about it for a while.

pur cosmetics-brand buzz-beauty-beauty bloggers



  • HydraFluid Foundation: I've talked about this in the past, but it really is such a good foundation & something that made me really love the brand. It's has a super liquid consistency, but is medium coverage & is buildable. It's so lightweight on the skin, and makes the skin look airbrushed. The most appealing part of this is the fact that it's light weight and very easy to blend, mostly because of the water base. This is for sure one of my favorite foundations, ever. 
  • HydraGel Lift: I'm obsessed with this product! I had a similar under eye cooling gel thing, but after using this one, I threw the other one out. This is super smooth without being tacky or too watery. It hydrates the under-eye and also preps the under-eye for concealer. It's a must-have in my opinion and one of the best under-eye products I own.
  • 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Powder Foundation: This was the first powder foundation I tried and it was got me hooked on the stuff! It's very smooth, gives really nice light-medium coverage, and doesn't cake up on the skin. You can wear it alone, or layer it over a liquid foundation to set it. My favorite way to wear powder foundation is to apply a BB Cream or Tinted Moisturizer and then dust this powder foundation on top. It gets an A+ in my book!
  • Strobe Palette in Sunkissed: When these were released over the summer, during the height of my cream product obsession, I purchased it right from my phone. I couldn't wait to get this baby in my hands and it was worth every penny. In my eyes, it's a bronzer, blush, and highlight, but you can definitely inter-change these shades based on your skin tone. They're not too greasy, which is something you can run into with cream products. They're the perfect consistency to blend and buff into the skin with a duo-fiber brush! 
  • Balancing Act Oil Control Powder: I by no means have oily skin but sometimes some oil breaks through. I have a sample of this, and one day I was out and had this in my bag. I applied it to my t-zone with a mini brush and I was in shock at how it transformed my skin. Now, this is my go-to powder and it's something I never would've thought I'd like, because like I said, I don't have oily skin. Well, we all get oily sometimes and this is a good powder for everyone, no matter the skin type. It doesn't dry me out or look cakey. It's an awesome powder.

I haven't tried everything from the brand, but these are my favorites of what I have tried. Below, shop some of my most coveted PUR Cosmetics products.



What is your favorite underrated beauty brand?
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Beauty in Review: Kylie Cosmetics Lip Kits

in , , , , , , , , , , by RoyallyPink, 7:00 AM
This is a post I've wanted to write for a long time, probably ever since I tried my first Kylie Lipstick last year... Dolce K.

Since then, my collection has grown to include 8 liquid lipsticks, including 1 metal matte.

I know that everyone has their opinions on the Kardashian/Jenner family, but I've said it before and I'll say it again, I love the Kardashians. I love that they built an empire out of nothing, I love that they've been through real stuff (Robert Sr's death, addiction, depression, fertility issues, Caitlyn, etc). I love that they don't let the bad things that people say about them affect them or stop them for doing what they love.

As un-relatable as they are, I think they're super relatable -- and I mean, I love seeing their homes, designer bags, and everything in between, but I do think they've been through some shit and don't mind sharing it with the world.

I love that family and will not apologize for it.

All that being said, when I heard Kylie was going to come out with liquid lipsticks, a trend I hadn't gotten into yet, I knew I was going to have to buy one... or a hundred.

After buying my first one, Dolce K, I fell in love.

Currently I own: Dolce K, Ginger, Brown Sugar, Leo, Heir, Candy K, Exposed, and 22. I have previously owned Posie K and Koko K (Koko is my FAVORITE) but I gave them to my mom... and they got her hooked on liquid lipsticks.



I know that I have previously written a post about my favorite liquid lipsticks, and included multiple other brands besides Kylie, but the beauty of makeup is that it's very subjective and sometimes, opinions change. You buy something new, and realize your old stuff just doesn't compare.

That's exactly what happened with my liquid lipstick collection. As Kylie released more shades, I knew I wanted to try them out because I loved Dolce K so much. As I bought more Kylie shades, I fell deeper in love with the formula and therefore realized the other liquid lipsticks I owned just didn't compare. They all felt more dry, left my lips feeling cracked, and crumbled as the day went on.

A few months ago, I was cleaning out my makeup drawers and saw my liquid lipstick collection. It wasn't that hefty, but I had a lot I didn't wear... pretty much every single liquid lipstick I mentioned in previous post. I decided that I was holding onto them for no reason, just because I thought only having Kylie lipsticks was silly. I wore an Anastasia lipstick one day and was so uncomfortable I had to wipe it off in the middle of the day.

That's when I decided to return/throw out all the other liquid lipsticks I have. I exclusively wear Kylie, and that's not because I love the Kardashians... it's because it's the best formula (in my opinion) out there.

All the colors are consistent in formula, they are super creamy, rich in pigment, and apply evenly. They are not patchy, nor are they drying. They don't necessarily feel like a liquid lipstick, and do not transfer. I only re-apply once... usually mid-afternoon. They hold up pretty great after eating as well.

All the colors I have are very comfortable to wear, they don't have that crumbly, drying feeling that I've had with other liquid lipsticks.

As always, I recommend regularly exfoliating your lips, applying a lip balm before wear, and use a lip liner. I don't always use a lip liner with my liquid lipsticks but when I do, it does make things easier. I'm just lazy at times.

They dry rather quickly and are the truest matte finish ever. On Kylie's website, a lot of the colors look very similar, but when you swatch them on skin, they are all VERY different.

Here are all the colors swatched out!

Left to right: Leo, Brown Sugar, Ginger, Exposed, Dolce K, Candy K, 22, Heir 


Have you ever tried Kylie's liquid lipsticks? What is your favorite liquid lipstick brand?
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GenBeauty 2016 Recap

in , , , , , , by RoyallyPink, 7:30 AM
I love going to conferences and expos; I love doing something I love, surrounded by other people who share the same passion as I do.

I didn't really know what these makeup expos were like until I started going with my job; being on the other side, I already know the ins and outs of these things.

I attended GenBeauty NYC last year with my job and I so didn't want to work; all I wanted to do was go around to other booths and see what the brands were offering.

That's why when my friend Marissa told me she wanted to go to this year's GenBeauty, I jumped at the chance. We went this past Saturday, September 17th and it was incredible!



GenBeauty is hosted by ipsy and basically, it's a huge makeup expo for makeup lovers. There is a variety of brands there and you get to visit each of them. They have fun activities, free samples, and you can try their other products.



As the beauty industry grows, so do events like these; because of that, there were SO many Youtube stars there. They were having meet ups at different brands and you could wait on line to meet them. There was only one star that Marissa & I wanted to see, and that was KathleenLights. Besides Jaclyn Hill, she is my #1 BAE and the fact that I met her was truly incredible.

But back to the beginning...

I bought my GenBeauty tickets around March, for about $70. They were the pre-sale price, and went up afterwards. My one piece of advice is to buy these tickets as early as possible. I wouldn't have purchased them for over $100.






Another tip of mine? It doesn't really matter what time you get there, you're going to wait on line until the doors open. I'm happy I got there at 10 AM because I only had to wait an hour; and they let all of us in at the same time.

This year the expo was at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal with gorgeous views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty; I will never get tired of that view.




They let us in at 11AM and Marissa and I immediately went for the Tarte booth. *Another tip: have it mapped out which booths you want to go to and at which times. We knew we wanted to go to Tarte to buy their Shape Tape Concealer (some booths were selling select products for a discounted rate) so we tackled that booth first.

Michelle Phan



The event was kind of incredible and it was surreal to be there; there were booths, products, people everywhere! There was so much to do, I couldn't focus on what I wanted to do first.

We went from Tarte, to a few other smaller booths, and checked out what they were giving out. We knew which brands we wanted to visit 100%, and pretty much got them all done.

I'd be lying if I said a majority of the reason I was there was to get free samples, and some of the booths were giving out incredible samples: Too Faced gave us full size Born This Way Concealers (which I know said didn't work for me, but I want to try again), and Tarte gave us full size Tarteist Lash Paint Mascaras.







Forget about what we actually got in a goodie bag that every attendee got; it's insane!

Some other brands we visited were: Crown Brushes, POPBeauty, Luxie Brushes, Ofra, Cover FX, NudeStix, Josie Maran, and a few others.

We went to Ofra for the sole reason that KathleenLights was having her meet up there; we waited on line for about an hour and a half but it was well worth it. I also got her liquid lipstick in Miami Fever and I'm so hyped to try it.

The event went on till about 6 PM but we left at 3... I had so much fun, but the lines seemed longer by the time the afternoon came, our feet hurt, we were hungry & thirsty (I saw no food or water at the event) -- it was just time to go. We met Kathleen, we got our goodie bags and basically saw everyone we wanted to see.

Everything about the event was a lot of fun and interesting to be on the other side of it. If you're a huge beauty addict, and want to be around other huge beauty addicts, I highly recommend checking out GenBeauty (or even BeautyCon) in your area!
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Beauty in Review: Recent Buys

in , , , , , , by RoyallyPink, 7:00 AM
Since moving, I haven't been buying that many beauty products. I started to feel really overwhelmed, and was decluttering a lot of products. I also needed to buy other things to decorate my room, and just felt like spending/saving money instead of shopping at Sephora/Ulta.

Well, that doesn't mean I stopped shopping completely. I have managed to pick up a few items here and there, and honestly, I've been loving them all.



Some are products that I've been lusting after for a while, and others were new products that were speaking to me.

1. Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Concealer: I had been wanting this concealer for a while, and just felt like I wanted to try out one of Tarte's concealers. This had gotten rave reviews, so when Tarte was having a sale, I decided to pick it up. I do really like it, and it gets the job done. It has a very chemical like smell when you open the bottle, but I do like the serum/watery consistency of the concealer. I'd say its a medium coverage concealer, but I do feel like I need to color correct with it to really get rid of my dark circles. It's not the greatest concealer ever, but I use it and enjoy the coverage/finish it gives me.

2. Tarte Styled By Hrush Palette: I love collaborations but haven't been feeling many of them lately. I feel like the beauty market is very flooded with them recently, and they're not always amazing. When I first saw this palette, I wasn't that impressed. It had shades that I already had, and didn't care for the blush color. I don't know what changed because one day I woke up and was intrigued by it. I purchased it and have been LOVING it. The shades are pigmented, smooth, and creamy -- the blush is a soft peach and perfect for everyday. This has become my favorite palette of the moment.

3. Anastasia Beverly Hills Sweets Glow Kit: I don't have many Anastasia products, not because I don't like the brand, but because nothing has ever really spoken to me. I love highlights just as much as the next girl, but don't buy new ones that often. I have my favorites and that's about it. I didn't care to purchase the original glow kits by Anastasia, but a few months ago when the new ones dropped, and I saw the "Sweets" kit, I knew I needed to have it. It has such unique shades, and I knew the formula would wow me. I am pretty much obsessed! I think my favorite in the kit is the purple shade called "Taffy"; it's a unique, one of a kind shade that's unlike anything I have in my collection. I can't tell you how many compliments I get on my highlight when I wear this kit.

4. Sephora Brush Set: I never spend that much money on makeup brushes. I stick with Morphe or ELF and they get the job done. But, when I saw this limited edition set on Sephora's website, I knew I needed it. The reviews were incredible, and I just loved the design. It was speaking to me on a spiritual level. I ran to my Sephora store as soon as I knew it was in stock and picked this baby up. The brushes are amazing and probably some of my favorites in my collection. They are super soft, but pick up and distribute the product perfectly. My favorite brush is probably the highlighter brush; it's a slim, tapered brush that applies the highlight to the perfect spot. After I wrote this entire post, I realized it's not available on Sephora.com anymore *check your Sephora stores*, but here's a single brush that looks just as amazing from the collection.

 What have been your favorite products lately?
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Beauty 101: Updated Skincare Routine

in , , , , , , , , , by RoyallyPink, 7:00 AM
Skincare has become more and more important to me as the months have passed. I love a good moisturizer almost as much as I love a striking highlight. Without good skin, your makeup falls flat.

Without good skincare products, what is the point of your almost $40 Becca highlighter?

Nothing... that's what!

I was never good about sticking to a select few products because I always love to try a thousand things at once. Therefore, I never had holy grail items; also, I feel like my skin changes a lot so I constantly need to cater to those changes.

I have my skin issues, definitely; the main one being dryness around my eye and on my eyelid. Nothing worked to help out with that so I have a prescription steroid cream.

Other than that, my skin is usually dry, I don't break out a lot, but I do have some texture on my cheeks. I feel like these products and ways of cleansing really help me keep my skin clear and in control.

(Here's my skincare routine from last fall and from the spring. You can see how it's changed a lot!)




Makeup Removers

  • Boscia Makeup-Breakup Cool Cleansing Oil: I purchased this last Christmas and have a little more than half of the bottle left. I don't use this every night, but when I'm wearing a full, caked on face of makeup or I feel like my skin needs an extra step of cleansing, I'll use this. It's a cleansing oil so it breaks down all your makeup before cleansing; just apply a few pumps to dry skin, rub in, and rinse clean. My skin feels awesome afterwards. 
  • Makeup Eraser: If I don't use the cleansing oil, this is my go to. Ever since purchasing this a few months ago, I haven't used makeup wipes to remove any makeup. This cloth is specially made to remove makeup in one quick swipe and using only water. How does it do that? I have no idea but it works! Just run it under water, wipe your face, and it's completely gone. It's seriously like magic.
  • Eye Makeup Removers: It's very rare I need another remover for my eyes but if I do, it's these two. The Clinique Take the Day Off Eye Makeup Remover Stick is such an interesting product, I knew I needed it in my life. It's a balm that you rub on your finger, and apply to your eye and all the eye makeup literally disappears. The Too Faced Mascara Melt Off Cleansing Oil is a cleansing oil for your mascara. I'll use this when I have on a waterproof mascara or just have the extra moments to remove mascara properly. It really does make all the difference in how the rest of my makeup comes off -- no raccoon eyes here! 
Cleansers:
  • Tarte Frixxxtion Stick: This has been my go-to lately, and I won't go too much into it because there is an entire Beauty in Review post dedicated to this lovely little product here.
  • Mario Badescu Botanical Exfoliating Scrub: If I need a little more exfoliation, I'll grab this. I received it for free when I was at the Ulta Conference for work back in April, and I just like how it makes my skin feel. It is an exfoliator but at the same time, it has a gel consistency so it's not harsh at all. It deep cleans my pores and gets all the gunk out. My skin is super clean and fresh afterwards; it's also doesn't irritate my sensitive, dry skin which is always a plus. 
Toner:
  • Fresh Rose Floral Toner: Toner is not something I remember but when I do, I grab this. It's also the only toner I have at the moment, but I have tried a few in the past and I really just love this one. It's very gentle, has a great rose scent, and gets all the excess dirt off my face. My skin feels fresh afterwards, and it doesn't sting at all (like some other toners I've tried).
Treatments: 

I don't use treatments very often but if I do, they're usually a variety. Whether it's a face mask, a blemish spot treatment, or an extra boost of toning and detoxing, I'll do it right after toner and before my serums and moisturizers. Below are my favorites:


Serums and Moisturizer:
  • Josie Maran Hydrating Milk: This has been giving me and my skin life lately. I purchased a Josie Maran Today's Special Value kit from QVC and this was included in it. It has a milky consistency but applies like a smooth serum, but is not as greasy as one would think a serum would be. It has intense hydrating properties and just feels incredible on the skin. I know once the winter comes, this will be even more handy.
  • Josie Maran Argan Oil: Another product that came in the kit, and one that I've been wanting to try for a while. Argan oil can be used anywhere and everywhere, but so far I've been using it in conjunction with my Hydrating Milk. I guess this is more like a moisturizer for me because I don't apply a moisturizer afterwards. 
For the past few weeks, I haven't used a separate moisturizer because I feel like the Josie Maran products are more than enough hydration for me, especially because I'm using them together. When I do use a moisturizer, it's one of the below:


Eye Cream:
  • Rose Hydrating Eye Gel Cream: I've had an obsession with eye creams over the years but this one is the one I've currently been using. It's probably not my favorite ever (that would be the Tarte one, so far). It, as you can assume, has a gel consistency and you need the smallest amount for under your eyes. It definitely hydrates but I don't think it does much else to help the under-eye area. 
Lips:
  • Glossier Balm Dot Com: I haven't used another lip product at night for months. This is the best lip balm to use at night (or during the day); it's super heavy because it's a skin salve, but not heavy in a bad way at all! It hydrates my lips, and in the morning, I still have a bit of residue but my lips are fresh as a daisy. I will never be without this product (I have like 3 tubes lying around!)
AM Routine:

What you just read is my nighttime routine, I probably should've said that first. My AM routine is SUPER easy... so easy it doesn't even deserve it's own post. You can take a look at the products below:



 What does your skincare routine look like?


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