Blog Archives
The Gloss Over: Chanel Rouge Allure Extrait de Gloss in Insolence
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Chanel Rouge Allure Extrait de Gloss combines bold color and longevity. As glosses go – majority rules – not very long-lasting. Chanel has designed it’s Rouge Allure to be a color-rich, high shine, gel-based that wears “for hours.”
One of the best features is the double-sided flocked applicator. The shape is beveled to deliver ultra-precise definition and easy application. Like all things Chanel – the packaging is pristine, high-quality and luxurious. As for the formula, I was quite surprised by the texture of the gloss. A “long-lasting” gloss would assume to be tacky and/or sticky. Rouge Allure Extrait de Gloss is none of the above. The “jelly-like” texture is smooth, silky and comfortable on the lips. The shine is not dramatic – but subtle and makes lips look full and voluminous. The formula lasts an hour or so – better than other gloss products but not as long-lasting as long-wear lipsticks and stains. I personally bought this product for the color – not its longevity – so the extra hour or so is a bonus.
The color: Insolence is a cotton candy blue-based pink with silver micro-shimmer. It’s semi-opaque but adds a substantial amount of brightness and pinkness to the lips.
Chanel Rouge Allure Extrait de Gloss is a great everyday lip product.
Nail Jelly: American Apparel Sheer Nail Lacquer
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American Apparel’s “Sheer” Nail Lacquer collection offers six beautifully bold glosses named after beloved California beaches. While the shades are uber vivid, they are sheer enough to layer, mix and match.
Moonlight Beach: royal blue
Redondo Beach: sky blue
Pacific Beach: turquoise
Zuma Beach: green/chartreuse
Manhattan Beach: fiery coral
Summerland Beach: light peach
The formula is thin but very pigmented. In about three coats – you can get full coverage. However, I love the one-two coats for a sheer jelly-like effect and sheer wash of color. Drying time is quick with a glossy finish. The formula has an average lifespan… a couple days – but chips are easily corrected with a brush-over as this polish is great for layering.
The new sheer lacquers are cruelty-free and available in retail American Apparel stores or online here.
Nutrient Infusion: Tata Harper Replenishing Nutrient Complex
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Like a multivitamin for the skin, Tata Harper’s Replenishing Nutrient Complex provides antioxidants, nutrients, fatty acids, lipids, amino acids, and omegas essential for softening the visual signs of aging. Brightening and rejuvenating the complexion, this formula leaves the skin silky soft and strong.
Suitable for all skin types, the Replenishing Nutrient Complex is formulated with:
- Alfalfa Extract, high in vitamins A, B, C, D and E, helps maintain a youthful appearance and protects skin from environmental conditions that cause damage
- Improves the appearance of skin tone with Rose Geranium
- Soothes dry, dehydrated skin and aids in cellular repair with Calendula
- Borage Oil keeps skin healthy and supple with high levels of Gamma Linolenic Acid
- Jojoba and Borage provide nutrients and fatty acids while aiding skin lipid and moisture retention
- Provides a final layer of environmental protection to the skin
This is the best post-beach treatment ever! After sun, surf and sand you really feel this product “replenish” all the nutrients back into the skin. Unlike a lot of face oils, this one soaks into the skin beautifully and does not leave an oily layer. With a subtle floral aroma that smells fresh and feminine, Tata Harper’s Replenishing Nutrient Complex is a must-have.
About Tata Harper
Tata Harper had no intention of entering the beauty world until her stepfather was diagnosed with cancer. His doctor told him to stop all personal care products which started Tata Harper’s curiosity. She checked the Skin Deep Database only to find that the high-end products she had been using for years were highly toxic. With her scientific and engineering background, she traveled the world searching for comparable natural beauty products. “I chose to spend my money on high quality ingredients rather than packaging and marketing, which is usually the opposite of what other brands do” says Harper. Even before they had their new packaging , they received letters asking if they would ship the product in Ziploc bags. If that’s not a testimony to product performance, I don’t know what is.
Stocking Stuffer: Kate Spade Lip Crayon Box Set
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GLOW-T GIFT GUIDE
The Kate Spade Lip Crayon Box Set is the perfect stocking stuffer, hostess gift and/or thank you gift for that special lady in your life.
Small, festive and feminine, this box set features three lip shades: dark red, bright red and pink. The lip crayons are created by cult-favorite – Lipstick Queen. Closely related to the Chinatown Glossy Pencil by Lipstick Queen, these crayons have a glossy finish and feel moisturizing on the lips.
Pick up a box or two for last minute gifting. Any girl will love this ultra-girly gift.
Lip Lacquer: Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Lip Tars
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Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Lip Tars combine the longevity of a lipstick, with consistency of a gloss. 100% vegan and cruelty-free, OCC has created a truly innovative product.
Become your own alchemist with OCC Lip Tars. With 40 blendable shades, one is inspired to invent and create new colors of their own.
OCC Lip Tars contain an unprecedented amount of pigment and are very true to color. They have a very liquid consistency, which makes application difficult. For more precision, I suggest using a lip-brush.
Unlike traditional lipsticks, Lip Tars come packaged in a small squeeze tube. You only need a tiny bead of color for an application, so they last forever despite their small size. The product goes on very slick and moist and dries down to a satin finish. It feels lightweight and comfortable on the lips and is truly long-lasting. Formulated with Hemp Oil, Peppermint Oil and Vitamin E, OCC Lip Tars feel as good on the lips as they look.
Lacquer your lips in high-impact color with Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Lip Tars.
Q&A: Jouer National Makeup Stylist – Neil Scibelli
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Yin and Yang, “shadow and light”, is an ancient Chinese philosophy used to describe how polar opposites or seemingly contrary forces are interconnected. Jouer Cosmetics has found this balance with two exceptional and exceptionally different products, Luminizing Moisture Tint and Matte Moisture Tint.
Jouer’s best-selling Luminizing Moisture Tint contains light-diffusing minerals that give skin a soft, healthy glow. This product is formulated with powerful antioxidants like ginseng and ginko biloba leaf extract to improve the skin and SPF 20 to protect it. Jouer’s Luminizing Moisture Tint provides the perfect amount of “glow.” Sometimes products that claim a “luminizing” or “dewy” finish, just end up making you look sweaty. This product perfects the look of healthy skin.
Allure recently gave Luminizing Moisture Tint it’s coveted “Best in Beauty” seal.
The counter part to a glowing complexion is found with Jouer’s new Matte Moisture Tint. This is the first matte-formula I have used that does not make my face flat. The lightweight formula blurs imperfections, moisturizes the skin and provides a velvety, soft focus finish – that looks amazing on the skin. Enriched with Vitamins A, C and E, this formula delivers rich antioxidants to the skin. The oil-free formula absorbs oil and reduces shine throughout the day.
As a special treat, Jouer’s National Makeup Stylist – Neil Scibelli has provided all the answers needed on using, applying and selecting cream-based products.
Jouer National Makeup Stylist, Neil Scibelli, for Glow-T.com
Q: What are the benefits of using cream-based products?
A: Cream based products have the ability to leave a more dewy finish to the skin. A lot of cream based products have built in moisturizers, so I recommend them to women with dry skin.
Q: Can all skin-types use them?
A: Yes, all skin types can use cream based products. There are different categories of cream products, so choosing the right one for your skin type is key.
Q: How to pick the right colors for your skin tone?
A: I usually test a small amount of product on the lower jaw line area- to match the skin tone. I like matching the neck color.
Q: Should you use fingers or brushes to apply these products? If brushes…what are the best to use?
A: Fingers are a user-friendly way to apply cream products (like a tinted moisturizer), for those who are on the go. From a makeup artist standpoint, I recommend using a foundation brush for applying cream products; it creates a more even, flawless finish.
Q: How to apply?
A: I put a dime size amount on the top part of my hand, and dip into it with a foundation brush to apply. This way, you have control as to how much your picking up with your brush. You don’t want to end up with too much product directly on your face, so its a good way to build your coverage up. Apply from the center, moving the product outward.
Q: Any tips or tricks?
A: To prevent a cream product from looking streaky, I recommend patting the formula into the skin. It ensures coverage, without moving the product around too much.
Q: How to make cream-based products last?
A: You can set it with a translucent powder, to lock the product in place. This helps with setting the product, and also absorbs shine in the t-zone area.
Q: Favorite cream-based products?
A: Allure’s award winning product from Jouer Cosmetics, Luminizing Moisture Tint. For a more oily skin type, try the new Matte Moisture Tint also by Jouer. They leave the most incredible natural glow to the skin. They’re both oil-free and ideal for daily wear.
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About Neil Scibelli:
Born and raised in New York, Neil Scibelli has established himself as one of today’s leading fashion and celebrity makeup artists. Growing up alongside his grandfather, an oil painter, Neil began blending colors at the young age of five. Over the years, his passion for painting developed into a keen interest in makeup artistry.
While absorbing all of New York City’s cultural influences and style, makeup artistry was a natural calling for Neil. He studied his craft while training under world-renowned makeup companies including Yves Saint Laurent, Laura Mercier and Kevyn Aucoin. Neil has also assisted some of the industry’s top artists, such as Kate Lee and Mally Roncal.
A combination of talent, dedication and ambition allowed Neil to successfully turn his years of training into a full-time career. His work is mainly focused in fashion, television, music videos, and red-carpet appearances, with loyal celebrity clients in all genres.
Neil has keyed numerous fashion shows and presentations, including his re-occurring work with stylist Brad Goreski and the Kate Spade company. Other recent projects include his signature glamming for model/actress Molly Sims, assisting on Beyonce’s music video ‘Party’, and grooming for recording artist John Legend.
In 2008, Neil joined the Jouer Cosmetics team as a freelance makeup artist. Jouer promoted Neil to the role of National Makeup Stylist in 2011; a position he currently holds.
Dream Cream: Jouer Cream Eyeshadow
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Jouer Cream Eyeshadow is the do-it-all eye product for quick, low maintenance makeup. Line, shade and/or contour your eyes with these easy-to-blend beauties.
These cream eyeshadows are like nothing I have tried before. Extremely lightweight in texture, the formula glides effortlessly onto the lids. They feel like velvet on the skin and the smudge-proof formula lasts all day. The consistency is both layerable and buildable providing options for a sheer or dramatic application.
Available in five gorgeous shades:
♦ Chiffon – shimmering ivory pearl
♦ Feather – shimmering pink champagne
♦ Organza – shimmering lavender taupe
♦ Cashmere – shimmering golden taupe
♦ Suede – shimmering golden bronze
When deciding on whether to use a cream or powder eye shadow, take into consideration factors such as your age and skin type. Powder eye shadows that contain shimmers may settle in wrinkles, fine lines and/or sagging eye lids. Cream shadow is a better option for women of age as they will create a smooth base. If you have very oily skin, using a cream eyeshadow can be frustrating. When combined with your skin’s natural oils, the eyeshadow may quickly smear or seep into the crease. This is an easy fix – as cream eyeshadows can also be used as primers. First apply your favorite cream eyeshadow then set with a powder or powder eyeshadow to absorb excess oil. Not only with the color last and last – but mixing these textures reveals beautiful dimension and light-reflecting properties.
All Jouer products offer a smart packaging solution. Constructed with interlocking sides, every product from lip gloss to face powder “snap-together,” making it easy to mix and match your favorites into the perfect palette.
I am currently having a small love affair with Jouer Cosmetics. Quality formulas, wearable colors and intelligent packaging – what more could you ask for. More reviews to come.
Second Skin: Giorgio Armani Maestro Fusion Makeup
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After 8 years of research, Giorgio Armani has produced a new face-makeup category. Touted as a “complexion perfector” or “complexion enhancer,” Giorgio Armani Maestro Fusion Makeup was created to fulfill the seemingly impossible duality of transparency and coverage.
Armani says that traditional foundations are usually emulsions containing water in oil with fillers; according to cosmetics experts, those fillers can produce a visible masking effect. Maestro Fusion Makeup is created with patented Fusion Technology, consisting of ultra-fine oil-pigments that “fuse” to the skin, blurring imperfections with a no-makeup feel.
Giorgio Armani Maestro Fusion Makeup, was created with five distinct principles:
1. A water and powder-free base
2. Totally non-comodogenic
3. Five time-released oils evaporating gradually
4. Smart pigment technology
5. An easy, fast, fresh and flawless application
The product is dispensed through a dropper and has a very runny consistency. It feels extremely smooth and weightless on the skin. If you have ever used a dry oil, this is the feeling it resembles. The result is a light, whisper-thin formula that gently moisturizes the skin. The shades blend equisitly into the skin and might be the answer to those suffering with color-matching. The finish is extremely natural with a bit of luminosity that lasts all day.
Available in 12 shades, Giorgio Armani Maestro Fusion Makeup is a new generation of foundation. A “revolutionary complexion perfector” that looks and feels like second skin.
In The Know: Chanel CC Cream
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CC Cream, also known as Color Control cream, is an improved and refined BB (Blemish Balm) Cream. While BB Creams are manufactured primarily as a skincare product, CC Creams are developed to retain all the skincare benefits of a BB Cream plus added nourishing ingredients and the additional aim to provide more effective skin coverage. CC creams are formulated with technology originating in, industry-leader, Japan and further developed in Korea.
Asian countries have been using CC Creams for some time now and currently have many brands and product available. Just like the BB Cream “craze” – these creams will soon begin to roll out worldwide, one-by-one.
Chanel launched it’s version of a CC Cream (Chanel’s Version: Correction Complete/Complete Correction) to the Asian Markets earlier this year and will soon be available to the USA. No release date set.
READ BB CREAM REVIEWS:
Tried & Tested: Bobbi Brown BB Cream SPF 35
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The newest BB Cream to hit our counters is Bobbi Brown BB Cream SPF 35. Exclusive to Nordstroms, the formula combines moisturizer, skincare, foundation and SPF into one.
Features & Benefits: Water-attracting molecules boost hydration. Light-reflecting pearls brighten dull skin. Botanical extracts and caffeine reduce discoloration and redness. Pore-reducing peptides minimize fine lines. Broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and antioxidants fend off future damage.
Bobbi Brown’s BB Cream SPF 35 is available in five shades: Extra Light, Fair, Light, Medium and Medium to Dark. I was certainly intrigued by this, due to the fact that Bobbi Brown Cosmetics are primarily yellow-based shades. Many BB Cream (especially asian brands) are based on cooler-tones, such as pinks and greys.
As I sampled the different shades, I was persuaded by a sweet Bobbi Brown representative to try the darkest shade, Medium to Dark. This shade looks quite dark, almost bronzer-like. But, I took her advice and purchased.
APPLICATION: Smooth and easy to apply. Goes on quite dry, but feels nice and extremely light on the skin. (Unless you have very oily skin, a moisturizer is needed in addition to this BB Cream.)
COVERAGE: Sheer.
FINISH: Skin appears matte with a subtle sheen. Very healthy-looking. However, like most BB Creams, after a couple hours the oils will come-out and skin will look too glowing. A finishing powder is recommended.
COLOR: Initial application, the color appeared too dark. Let dry and after a couple minutes, the color adapts to the skin and the color is perfect. It might be a smidgen too dark – but I am loving the subtle-tan look for summer.
VERDICT: Like many of the US BB Creams, this is much like a tinted moisturizer. But, I love the finish it leaves on the skin and the feeling is remarkably lightweight. For a high-SPF product, this cream wears like you have nothing on. The shade choices are great and warm-up the complexion beautifully. Leaves skin looking fresh and healthy. A great option for the summer months – SPF, lightweight, easy.
(When testing these BB Creams, before deciding on a shade, I suggest waiting at least 5 minutes for the color to oxidize and adapt to your skin tone.)
For other BB Cream reviews:
GLOW-T AWARDS: Hampton Sun Sunless Tanning Gel
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BEST EFFORTLESS SELF-TANNER: Hampton Sun Sunless Tanning Gel
Hampton Sun Sunless Tanning Gel provides the most effortless self-tanning experience. Simple application, quick results, great build-able color.
This formula features natural and organic ingredients that improve the skin’s quality. Walnut Oil, Aloe Vera, Vitamins A through E, antioxidants and Chamomile create smooth and moisturized skin with no harsh chemical scent.
The formula also contains Erythrulose (a ketone sugar found in raspberries). Like Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), Erythrulose reacts with the amino acids in the keratin protein on the outer layer of skin. The nontoxic reaction creates a color change in the skin, similar to a cut apple exposed to oxygen, and gives the appearance of an natural-looking tan.
The gel consistency feels cool and soothing on the skin. It melts into the skin seamlessly providing effortless application. The long-lasting formula dries quickly with no lingering scent and fades evenly and discreetly.
The color is light but build-able. If a deeper color is preferred, this unique formula can be applied for a second time immediately after first application. Hampton Sun Sunless Tanning Gel is dermatologically tested and hypo-allergenic, perfect for all skin types.
Read my post: Application Tips & Tricks
Summer Favorites: Blush
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In the summer, bright and vibrant shades of cheek color is a surefire way to look younger and healthy. Use these products to emphasize a tan, create a youthful flush or mimic a lit-from-within complexion.
Start by choosing the right shade for your skintone. To find your go-to blush shade, pinch your cheeks and then pick a color that mimics your natural flush. This trick will ensure that you’re choosing the most flattering color for your skin tone. If you have fair skin, try a cool pink. Medium skin looks great in vibrant apricot/peachy hues, and darker skin tones look radiant in fuchsia.
Cream blush is a great way to instantly look fresh and dewy. Although it’s staying powder is not the best, especially in higher temperatures, cream blush is a nice alternative for dry skin. To ensure staying power on oily skin, first prime the skin and then set with a powder blush or translucent powder. To apply cream blush, smile and lightly focus the blush onto the apples of your cheeks. Then blend softly back and up toward the hairline. If you apply too liberally, tone down heavy application by blotting the excess color with a clean makeup sponge. Or, use a sheer, luminizing powder to diffuse excess color. The blush then looks like it came from within the skin versus sitting on top of it.
FAVORITES:
Dior Rosy Glow Healthy Glow Awakening Blush: I am a sucker for these gimmicky products. However, this one is fantastic. The formula magically adjusts to your skin’s natural chemistry to create a universal shade. It produces an angelic pink glow that makes you look “lit-from-within.”
It Cosmetics Vitality Cheek Flush Powder Blush Stain in Peony: The most long-wearing powder blush I have tried. The waterproof formula mimics the lasting power and glow of a cheek stain with the easy application of a powder. Packed with anti-oxidants and anti aging properties, this blush gives new definition to a “healthy glow.”
Youngblood Crushed Mineral Blush in Rouge: These blushes are incredibly pigmented and easy to work with. They blend beautifully and last all-day. They feel lightweight on the skin and never settle into lines. A small amount goes a very long way, apply with a light hand for a sheer wash of color or add more for vibrant glowing skin.
Kevyn Aucoin The Pure Powder Glow in Myracle: Full Review HERE.
NARS Cream Blush in Cactus Flower: On trend for summer, this bright coral blush is beautiful on both the lips and cheeks. The velvety texture is extremely easy to blend and apply. Subtle gold shimmers hide in the coral to help create perfectly flushed, luminous skin.
BECCA Beach Tint in Guava: This is the perfect color for summertime. It resembles the act of playing in the sun a little too long. The water-resistant formula can be used on both the cheeks and lips. Produces the most natural-looking flush and smells like summer.
Urban Decay Afterglow Glide-On Cheek Tint in Quickie: A lightweight cream blush that does not pull or disrupt a base. It can be used on top of foundation, powder… anything. The formula is sheer but buildable. The staying power is not the best, but I am obsessed with this color. Quickie is a sheer bubble gum, electric, cotton candy pink. The minute it is applied, it creates instant youthfulness.
Holy Grail: Vitality Lip Flush 4-in-1 Anti-Aging Lipstick Stain
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An all-in-one phenomenon. Combine your favorite lip balm, lipstick, lip gloss and lip stain and you will have IT Cosmetics Vitality Lip Flush 4-in-1 Anti-Aging Lipstick Stain.
IT Cosmetics by Jackie Kern stands for Innovative Technology Cosmetics. It is created with the help of leading plastic surgeons to infuse medical grade makeup with healing skin loving ingredients with cutting edge technology.
Unlike anything I have tried before, this lip product creates the most perfect stained lip. The uber moisturizing formula glides on the lips seamlessly and resembles the feeling of a glossy lip balm. After application, lips are stained with a gorgeous “your lips but better” flush. This product comes in 3 different stains: Je Ne Sais Quoi (crystal pink), Love Story (mid-range pink) and Pretty Woman (berry).
This truly innovative lip product contains IT Cosmetics Hydra-Luxe™ Technology which features plum oil, cherry oil, shea butter, aloe, and jojoba that all work together to treat, hydrate, condition, and nourish your lips. It is also packed with anti-oxidants including acai, green tea, white tea, and vitamins A, C, and E to fight free-radicals and minimize the appearance of lip lines and wrinkles.
IT Cosmetics Vitality Lip Flush 4-in-1 Anti-Aging Lipstick Stain is added to the Holy Grail list for two reasons: texture and color. It is the lip product I have always been looking but did not know existed. Until now.
TOP Coat: Seche Vite
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Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat is acknowledged as the world’s finest top coat. Its patented formula allows it to penetrate through the nail lacquer all the way to the base coat forming a single solid coating. It leaves nails strong and durable, no chipping or peeling, and provides the highest gloss of any product on the market.
When this product is applied it naturally thickens, coating the nail lacquer. It magically repairs any minor mistakes of a manicure, quickly and perfectly. The drying time is fast and flawless and it will never yellow.
This is truly the best top coat (or I would not dedicate an entire post to it). The only downfall is over time the product gets gooey and stringy. Seche makes an additional product, Seche Restore, to fix this problem. Just add a few drops into the bottle and – voila – a brand new bottle.
Road to Flawless Skin: Kevin Aucoin The Sensual Skin Enhancer
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Kevin Aucoin The Sensual Skin Enhancer
Kevin Aucoin’s Sensual Skin Enhancer is a one-stop product for creating flawless skin. The road of achieving perfect skin is a long-one and may need a considerable number of different items… concealer, powder, base. The Sensual Skin Enhancer erases the need for all of these items and paves the way to perfect skin.
This Skin Enhancer can be used as a concealer; spot and undereye, foundation, tinted moisturizer and highlighter. (To use as a highlighter, simply choose a color one shade lighter than your actual skin tone).
The formula is extremely pigmented, and the texture consists of a heavy cream. However, when applied onto the skin, it feels lightweight, non-greasy and blends beautifully.
I apply this product by adding a bit to my favorite moisturizer (a little goes a long way). This concoction creates the perfect tinted moisturizer, in which it lets me decide how much coverage my skin needs. Sometimes I need to add more, sometimes less. Skin changes day-to-day, breakouts and such, The Sensual Skin Enhancer puts you in the drivers seat on the road to flawless skin.
Punch of Color: Deborah Lippmann: Girls Just Want to Have Fun
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Deborah Lippmann
Deborah Lippmann, Girls Just Want to Have Fun, nail lacquer is a creamy coral/pink-colored varnish required for summer sandals. Named after the popular Cyndi Lauper tune, released in 1983, Lippmann developed this shade from 80’s inspiration.
Deborah Lippmann nail lacquers are innovative and on trend each season. The formula is velvety and creamy and applies like a dream. The colors are pigmented and intense, in which one to two coats is all that is needed. The performance of these nail lacquers are adequate, manicure lasts about five days.
This vibrant nail polish compliments all skintones. The coral/pink-hue accentuates the skin instantly, fabricating a sun-kissed glow. The bold punch of color in Deborah Lippmann Girls Just Want to Have Fun nail laquer is universally flattering and essential for Summer 2011.
The Bottom Line: Clinique Bottom Lash Mascara
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Clinique Bottom Lash Mascara
Clinique Bottom Lash Mascara is specifically designed for painting the bottom lashes.
This mascara is extremely unique in both size and formula. The miniature wand is constructed to grasp and separate each individual lash. While the smudge/smear/tear-proof formula coats and defines.
Create a sweet doe-eyed look that lasts all day with Clinique Bottom Lash Mascara.
Glow-T 