MAC Studio Fix Fluid Foundation : {Review}

Mac Studio Fix Fluid SPF 15 Foundation

Shade: NC 35

Size: 30 ml (1.0 fl oz)

Price: Approx.  $32 CAD/each

Where to buy: maccosmetics.com

Rating: 2/5

Likes: The flawless finish; smooth buildable coverage; easy to apply

Dislikes: Irritated my skin, white cast in flash photos 

Their Claim: A modern foundation that combines a natural matte finish and medium-buildable coverage with broad spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 15. Comfortable and long-wearing: lasts for up to eight hours. Applies smoothly, builds coverage quickly and easily. Contains specially treated micronized pigments and soft-focus powders for a super-smooth look that helps minimize the appearance of imperfections. Absorbs and disperses oil. Contains special skin-conditioning ingredients. Oil free.

Suitable for: All skin types *I'm Dry to Normal

image: google search

My Experience

Wearing MAC Studio Fix Fluid in NC35 in the summer

  I purchased this foundation around christmas of 2010 when i finally got matched correctly. A few years prior, i was in Toronto and visited a mac store where the makeup artist attempted to match me but failed to do so with a decent shade. I didn't like the shade because it didn't match my skintone properly and i wasn't about to pay for that. So anyways, right before christmas last year i was visiting the mall and decided to try and get matched again. I was out of my Clinique foundation and wanted to try mac since i've heard such good things about mac for years. I was matched and the finish was nearly flawless- i loved it! However, after using this foundation for a few days it started to irritate my skin and left my face with small little pimples. Now i've never had acne so i know it's not that- it was some sortof allergic reaction. I did stop using it until my face cleared up and gave it another shot to see if it really was the mac foundation--- it was. As much as i like the flawless finish it gave my face, i could not sacrifice a flawless finish if it was going to irritate and ruin my face. Sadly, i had to stop using it.
 
Verdict
The Mac studio fix fluid foundation is a nice foundation apart from irritating my skin. It has a thick consistency (not too thick and not watery) that is easy to apply with a foundation brush. I didn't really have any issues with the foundation streaking and it did not dry too fast either. I would classify this foundation as full coverage in my opinion, or medium to buildable. It is definitely a buildable coverage foundation. I don't wear concealer when i use this foundation; it covers flaws so easily without too much product. Other than the irritation on my skin, the other thing i didn't like about this foundation was the fact that it made my face very pale in some photos taken with a flash because of the spf in the formulation.

Re-purchase? No

Have you tried this foundation? 

Clinique Superbalanced Makeup Foundation : {Review}

Clinique Superbalanced Makeup

Shade: 09 Sand (N) *I'm NC35 in MAC

Size: 30 ml (1 fl oz)

Price: $25 CAD

Where to buy: sears.ca (clinique)

Rating: 4/5

Likes: The finish it gives. Didn't break me out or irritate my skin

Dislikes: No pump

 

Their Claim: The smart makeup. Liquid foundation. Provides moisture and absorbs oil when and where needed with adjustable coverage that is silky upon application. Oil-free formula provides natural skin finish. Apply starting in center of face and blend outward with fingertips. Can be worn in the immediate eye area. For seamless look, dampen fingertips and blend edges. Moderate coverage. Balances combination skin, Long wearing.

Suitable for: Very Dry to Dry, Dry Combination, and Oily Skin *I'm Dry to Normal

My Experience 

Wearing Clinique Superbalanced (09 Sand)

** I've used this foundation for over a year**  

This used to be my favourite foundation, up until last year. The first time i tried Clinique about 8 years ago in the UK. I thought it was an amazing product, but i didn't purchase it when i came back to Canada because at the time i did not wear foundation. When i started wearing foundation, i looked all over to try and get a foundation that matched my skintone; i think that was the hardest part. Foundations were either too light or too dark for me, it was very disappointing. I didn't think Clinique was available here, until i went to the mall one year and saw their kiosk in The Bay. I was so excited, i immediately went over to get matched- and they actually had a shade for me! A shade that matched me; it wasn't to light or too dark; it wasn't too punk or too yellow; it was just right.

The foundation itself is a nice consistency that is medium coverage but buildable. It's easy to apply with either your fingers, a sponge or a foundation brush; I've tried all three and prefer using a foundation brush. I find that this foundation is long lasting, stays put, and leaves me looking flawless. This does not dry out my skin, nor does it irritate my sensitive skin. I've fallen asleep with it on, and it never once gave me pimples or breakouts. The only thing i would change about this foundation is to add a pump instead of pouring the foundation out of the bottle. It's not super thick but it's not runny either, so when it's finishing i have to spend a bit more time trying to get the foundation out of the bottle. This isn't a major problem for me, because what i do is leave the foundation upside down so it's easier to get to.

Verdict

Re-purchase? Yes!

This has been a favourite foundation of mines. The only reason why i stopped using this foundation was to try other foundations to see if they are any better. I bought MAC studio fix fluid foundation because i heard so many good things about MAC Cosmetics, which i'll be doing a review on soon.

So which foundation do i think is BETTER? 
Check out my upcoming reviews (^__^)

Nyx Studio Liquid Liners : {Review}

Product: Nyx Studio Liquid Liners
Colours: Extreme Blue (SLL 101), Extreme Gold (SLL 107), Extreme Silver (SLL 106)

Size: 0.19 oz (5.5 ml)

Price: Approx.  $5 CAD/each

Where to buy: nyxcosmetics.com

Rating for Silver: 3/5

Rating for  Blue: 4.5/5 

Rating for Gold:  3/5

Likes: I really like the Extreme Blue, but haven't been able to get the other colours to work for me

Dislikes: Hard to remove, burns if it gets in your eyes 

Their Claim: Transform your look in seconds with this super-pigmented eye liner that highlights eyes with an electrifying stroke of color. The fine tip allows for precision application, and can be used to create lines of varying thickness. Go subtle or go gaga. Available in 12 scintillating shades.

Extreme Gold, Extreme Blue, Extreme Silver

My Experience

** I've had these liners for about 6 months**

Of the three colours, my favourite is the Extreme Blue. It's such a pretty vibrant colour that brightens up so many looks. However, the Gold and Silver haven't worked out so well for me so far. I've tried a few times but i just don't like the way they look so i stick with wearing the Blue; especially when i'm feeling for a pop of colour. The best way i like to wear the blue is when i'm wearing a neutral or light eye shadow, then i apply this liner and BAM! My eyes pop and look amazing *yeaaaaaaah!*

Verdict

The bright colours seem to work better for me. Extreme Blue is great when i need a pop of colour but not over dramatic. It's easy to apply, and i can go for very thin lines or thicker lines with more application. This is my favourite liquid liner ever. They are very affordable and of such good quality. Why pay more when NYX does the same job?
A word of caution: Please avoid getting these liners in your eyes because they burn like a MOTHA MOTHA!

Re-purchase? I would re-purchase Extreme Blue, and I will definitely try the other bright colours in this line, but i wouldn't try the gold or silver again.

{Swatches} Manly 120 Palette

Manly 120 blusher/eye shadow palette

I've had this palette for a few years now, and i think doing a review is well overdue. As you can see there is visible wear and tear to the palette; although i haven't used the shadows all that much. It fell from me right before i took this picture, so you can see that some of the shadows broke up a little-- the reason for the palette being a little messy. This is the largest palette i have, and go straight for it most of the time when i decide to wear makeup. I did say that i would do a review, and dont worry because i will soon after i complete an upcoming exam *yeaaah* So for now, enjoy the swatches (^-^)

Manly 120 palette has so many different colours; neutrals, brights, darks, metallics etc

Manly 120 palette; a few swatches on my fingers

Manly 120 palette; a few swatches

Manly 120 palette; a few swatches

Manly 120 palette; closer view of swatches

Do you own a Manly palette or any other similar palette like coastal scents?

{Swatches} NYX Studio Liquid Liners

Nyx Studio Liquid Liner in Extreme Silver(SLL 106), Extreme Blue(SLL 101), Extreme Gold (SLL 107)

Swatches from top to bottom (Extreme Blue, Extreme Gold, Extreme Silver)

I will do a review of all three liners soon to let you know what i think of them. Coming soon (^_^)

Day 04: Foundation

If i had to choose a favourite foundation it'd have to be between the Clinique superbalanced makeup and MAC studio Fix Fluid SPF 15. I've been using the Clinique foundation for a few years and have only recently started using the MAC. I had tried in the past to get matched with MAC but they couldn't find a suitable match so i went with Clinique at the time and actually really liked it. I had no problems with Clinique so i stuck with it.. until recently when my  mom and i stopped by a MAC counter and i just asked if they could match me and they DID! I was really excited because i've always heard good things about MAC. 

I really like the MAC foundation; i love the overall finish it gives, however, it's causing some kind of reaction to my face. I notice i get these tiny bumps on my face that i`ve never had before. I've never had this problem with Clinique and i've even slept with it on my face. When i wear the MAC i wash my face as soon as i get home and i still get little tiny bumps all over my face. Also i only wear foundation about once a week. I was told to use a really good primer which will prevent the foundation from reacting to my skin this way but i don`t know yet. I will look into it and let you guys know if it works or not. If it doesn't work, i'll be going back to my trusted Clinique foundation.

{Review} Wet n Wild Lipstick 505A

**Apparently this is supposed to be a dupe of MAC Rocking Chick lipstick from their Barbie collection**

 
Wet n Wild Silk Finish Lipstick 
Colours: tested 505A (Light Berry Frost) 
Size: 0.13 oz
Price: around $2 CAD
Where to buy: walmart, shopper's drug mart
Rating: 2.5/5

Their Claim: enriched with conditioning ingredients of Vitamins A & E and Aloe Vera for moist-looking lips.
Likes: the colour is really nice ^-^
Dislikes: the smell, sticky feeling, not moisturizing.

My Experience: I've always been more of a lip gloss person but i wanted to venture more into the lipstick world. I wanted to try different brands especially lines that are more affordable. This is why i chose to try the Wet n Wild brand. Upon opening the lipstick the first thing i noticed was the smell. I wouldn't say it smells bad, but it didn't smell good either. Secondly, on application i didn't feel this lipstick had a silk finish and it was not moisturizing enough. I have to apply my lip balm before wearing this lipstick to prevent it from drying my lips. The only thing i liked was the colour. It is such nice colour-- i really like how cute it is .^-^. This is the only reason why it got a 2.5/5 rating.   

wearing Wet n Wild lipstick in 505A (light berry frost)

  
My Verdict: I think the colour is really nice but it's not very moisturizing and i don't like the smell of this lipstick.
Re-Purchase: I would only consider repurchasing if i can't find this colour in a more moisturizing lipstick line.

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Happy Friday: Makeup Question Tag

-What foundation do you use?

Clinique Superbalanced Makeup

-How about concealer?

No

-Do you know your undertone color?

I think i'm more Neutral-Warm
-What do you think of fake eyelashes?

Never worn them but they look nice on some people

-Did you know that you are suppose to change your mascara every 3 months?

Yes

-What brand of mascara do you use?

Avon Astonishing Lengths Mascara

Sephora or MAC?

MAC

-What makeup tools do you use in make up application?

Foundation Brush, Powder brush, blush brush

-Do you use make-up base/primer for the eyes?

No

-For the face?

No, but considering the Smashbox photofinish primer

-What is your favorite eyeshadow (color or shade)?

I love golds, metallics, neutrals but i also love trying bold colours as well

-Do you use pencil or liquid eyeliner?

pencil

-How often do you poke your eyes with an eyeliner pencil?

Never.

-What do you think of pigment eyeshadows?

I think they look really great
-Do you use mineral makeup?

No

-What is your favorite lipstick?

Haven't found a fave yet

-How about lipgloss?

Mark glow baby glow in peek-a-boo

-What is your favorite blush to use?

Clinique blushing blush

-Do you buy your makeup on ebay?

No

-Do you like drugstore makeup?

Some are hits, some are misses for me

-Did you ever consider taking make-up classes?

Yes, i would love to do it for fun

-Are you clumsy in putting on makeup?

Not really

-Name a makeup crime that you hate?

Concealer or foundation that is way too pale, clown-looking blush

-Do you like colorful shades of makeup (lipstick,eyeshadow) or neutral ones?

I like both. I like mixing it up

-If you could leave the house using just ONE make up item,what would you use?

lipbalm

-Could you ever leave the house without any makeup on?

Yes, I do that almost everyday :)

-Do you think you look good even without any makeup on?

Oh yeaaah baby ;)

-In your opinion, what is the BEST makeup line?

I still have many brands to try but so far i like Clinique, NYX, and MAC

-What do you think of Makeup?

I think makeup is fun and a great way to experiment with looks and product but i don't see it as a necessity. I wear it when i feel like it, but i always feel good putting my natural face forward ^-^

Did you get the same answer(s) as me?

{Review} Clinique High Impact Mascara

**Picture courtesy of clinique.ca**

Clinique High Impact Mascara

Colours: Black/Brown, & Black ((I'm testing BLACK))

Size: 8g

Price: $18 CAD

Where to buy: Clinique.ca, Sears.ca, The Bay

Beauty Rating: 1/5

Their Claim: Kicks up the volume and length of each and every lash for a look that's lusher, plusher, bolder. Pure, deep colour only adds to the impact. Wear it once and you'll feel naked without it.
Likes: Made lashes look bolder and darker (but not anymore than other mascaras)
Dislikes: Felt heavy, not waterproof, expensive


My Experience: To begin, i should mention that i already have naturally long lashes and have been using the Avon waterproof mascara before i began testing this product.
The Clinique mascara did not do anything more for me than other previously used mascaras. It felt like any other mascara i've used before except this one felt a lot heavy on my eyelashes. The consistency is a lot thicker but it did not make my lashes any longer than other mascaras. The only thing the this mascara did was make my lashes feel heavy which was really annoying and uncomfortable. What i also noticed was that if i yawn or if my eyes become watery the mascara gets in my eyes and it sortof stings/burns my eyes arghhh!
I have to say that the avon waterproof mascara i use is significantly cheaper than this; the avon mascara is about $4 verses $18 for the clinique. Really disappointing.


My Verdict: It was not worth the money for me. Too expensive and doesnt live up to its claims.
Re-purchase: No

{Review} Avon Mini Wash-off waterproof Mascara

 












Avon Mini Wash-off waterproof Mascara
Colour Tested: ((Black))
Size: .06 oz
Price: Under $2
Where to buy: Avon.ca
Their Claim: Streak-free. Washes away with soap and water. Same great formula you love in a full size, now goes with you..wherever!
My Verdict: I really like this mascara. It's small and cute; i can take it with me on the go. It lengthens my lashes, doesn't flake, and last a long time. Easy to wash off; just use soap and water.
Re-purchase: Yes

**Photographs courtesy of GASAI PHOTOGRAPHY

{Review} Clinique Blushing Blush

Clinique Blushing Blush Powder Blush

Colour Tested: ((Mysterious Mocha))

Size: .21 oz/6 g

Price: $24 CAD

Where to buy: Clinique, Sears, The Bay

Their Claim: Defining moment for cheeks. Silky formula sweeps effortlessly over cheekbones to create a natural look. Fresh, jet-milled colour builds to desired intensity with custom-sculpting brush. Long-wearing. Stays colour-true. Oil-free.

My Verdict: It works and it's reasonably priced. Long lasting wear that does not feel heavy on the face (it's light and silky on the cheeks). Cute packaging; i like the size and the fact that the front of the packages is a mirror. I absolutely love this blush. It does what it's suppose to do and looks great on me. That is why it's my favourite blush so far.

Re-purchase: Yes. (I have already repurchased this product.)

I absolutely love the packaging. Small and cute compact that has a mirror top (check out my reflection *hehehe*)

This is the blush in Mysterious Mocha; such a really beautiful colour. There is also a mirror when you open the compact & it comes with a little blush brush (as seen above). 

**All photographs copyright Gasai Photography & Clinique.com**

{Review} Rimmel SunShimmer Shimmering Maxi Bronzer

Rimmel SunShimmer Shimmering Maxi Bronzer
Colour Tested: 002 Sun Love
Size: 0.59 oz
Price: Under $8
Where to buy: Walmart, Shopper's Drug Mart,
Their Claim: The Rimmel SunShimmer Shimmering Maxi Bronzer is suppose to illuminate the face and body. It's suppose to give an instant natural bronzed sun-kissed glow.

My Experience: In my personal opinion, this is a great bronzer especially for the price. It's a large sized bronzer (0.59 oz) and it's very affordable (being under $8 CAD). You get a large amount of product for a great low price. Some bronzers are much pricier and smaller, that does not deliver close to what this bronzer does. The golden shimmers are just the right amount, that leaves your face looking naturally bronzed and not over done with shimmer. I believe it comes in two shades; i use 002 (Sun Love).
Overall: Affordable product that delivers on quality. Blends easily. Light weight. Long lasting product.
Re-Purchase: Yes i would

{Review} AVON Lip Gloss

I'll be reviewing TWO different line of lip glosses by Avon. 

1. Ultra Color Lip Gloss (first 3 glosses in pic)

2. Glazewear Liquid Lip Color (last 4 glosses in pic)

 Ultra Color Rich Liquid Lip Gloss

Colour(s) Tested: Nude Peach, Spice, Natural Glow

The Good: Rich & lasting colour. Moisturizing and an easy application brush.

The Bad: I don't actually have anything bad to say about this product. I

Overall: 4/5 It's a great lip gloss with a variety of shades. It's easy to apply & leaves lips moisturized without that sticky feeling.

Glazewear Liquid LipColor

Colour(s) Tested:Sweet Coral, Chic Mauve, Tickled Pink, Peach Fizz, (Rave *not shown)
The Good: Rich color and high gloss shine.Comes in a variety of colours.
The Bad:It's glossy and moisturizing but a bit sticky on the lips.
Overall: 3/5 It's an okay lip gloss.




*** Technorati code: HSD9BMYG3JY3

{Review} Wet n Wild eyeliner

While shopping i decided to pick up and try out the Wet n Wild eyeliner in white. I have never used white eyeliner before and wanted to give it a try. I decided to try this brand because it was inexpensive and it's not tested on animals.

Full Product Name: Wet n Wild kohl eyeliner: Silky smooth
Colour tested: White (656A)
The Good: Inexpensive. Easy to apply and lasted for a long time. Stayed in place and did not smudge easily.
The Bad: Require a few application to really see the liner
Overall: 3/5 because it is inexpensive and long lasting. It's not a must have product but it's worth the money