Clarins Has Perfected Skincare for the Under-35 Set

Last month, Jenn and I headed to the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Toronto to see the new launches Clarins was debuting for Spring 2016. It was quite a fete – there was a dessert bar, complete with a cotton candy machine, macaron lollipops and some bubbly! The venue was perfect – the hotel is actually home to the only Clarins spa in the country!

The products also did not disappoint. When the Clarins team walked through the product benefits and allowed us to smell the product and get a feel for their texture, I immediately fell in love and began testing them out that evening!

L’Oreal Paris True Match Lumi Cushion Foundation

Cushion foundations are all the rage lately – French cosmetics brands have perfected the launch, offering sheer, buildable coverage and a trusty compact that is perfect for makeup bags and traveling. I tried L’Oreal Paris’ take on the trend to see if it stacked up to the rave reviews.

APPLICATION
My favourite thing about this foundation is how true to skin tone it is – when I first opened the compact in my shade, I thought that there was no way this would work – it was way too dark. However, upon applying, I noticed it was a perfect match. So perfect that even swatching was difficult, you could barely see the product! What you see in this shot is several coats of foundation applied with a stippling brush.

This product also gives your skin a luminous glow, almost as though you’ve also applied a highlighter. It’s perfect for a fresh-faced look for daytime. At night, I add translucent setting powder to mattify things up a bit.

COVERAGE
The coverage for this product is sheer-to-medium – it takes a few applications to build it up. If you’re looking for additional coverage, add a creamy concealer to blemishes and under eye circles following your foundation applications.

SHADE RANGE
The product range includes 8 shades ranging from “Light Ivory” to “Suntan”. Unfortunately, I don’t think this foundation is a good match for those with darker skins.

PRICE AND AVAILABILITY
The L’Oreal Paris True Match Lumi Cushion Foundation is available in drug stores including Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall, as well as Walmart and Amazon.ca for approximately $24.99.

Swatches: Styli-Style Line & Seal lipliners

Do you use lipliners daily? 

I should know better but I really never spent the time to apply them. 

For my clients, I always do it. I guess I was lazy to add another step to make makeup routine. 

Philosophy: The Micro Exfoliating Treatment Kit

When you think of chemical peels and microdermabrasion, a trip to the spa and a $300+ price tag often come to mind. Luckily, skincare brands are releasing at-home versions of your favourite spa treatments for a fraction of the cost. The best part? These treatments usually include multiple applications.

Over the years I’ve tried several chemical exfoliators, microdermabrasion and peel kits – scrubs, fruit-acid soaked pads, you name it. I’ve noticed results, but not enough results to justify the price tag (skin treatments generally cost significantly more than a cleanser or moisturizer).

Enter the Philosophy Microdelivery Dual Phase Peel – a two-step peel that sells for under $100. After one use, I was hooked. My skin felt smoother than it’s ever helped before, redness was gone and my skin glowed. This is a great product if you suffer from acne or acne scars, aging skin, hyperpigmentation or sun damage.

Four reasons why you need the Microsoft Surface

I love being a beauty blogger. Trying out new products is always exciting. But that's only one side of my life. If you know me, then you know I work with video cameras and computers all day. I love when I find a product that makes my life easier. When I was asked if I wanted to try out the Microsoft Surface for Toronto Fashion week, I accepted without any hesitation.

Five new Revlon mascaras that you must have this season

Have you been to the mascara aisle lately? It’s insane!
So many brands. So many specifications.
Let's break it down!

Do you want length?
How about volume?
What about length and volume?

NUDESTIX Intense Matte Lip + Cheek Pencils- Royal & Belle

Matte lip products are my FAVOURITE trend. When I was asked if I wanted to try the NUDESTIX Intense Matte Lip + Cheek Pencils in Royal & Belle ($28.00 CAN), it was a YES. I love Nudestix. 

I love everything the brand stands for and how it caters to all skin tones.

MAKE UP FOR EVER Pro Sculpting Palette

Although I went to school for makeup, I'm still learning new techniques. Plus discovering products that make life much easier. Sculpting is the craze that is not going way. I blame Kim Kardashian! Although we all can't slay like Kim K, we can try right! MAKE UP FOR EVER’s new Pro Sculpting Palette ($54.00 CAN) is here to help us all slay!

Derek Lam 10 Crosby fragrance collection

This has been the talk of my washroom. I know.. let me explain. My husband and I are finally are having friends over to look at the house. In the my washroom, I have my Derek Lam 10 Crosby fragrance collection ($115.00 CAN) displayed. EVERYONE who sees it needs to know the backstory.

It's a collection of 10 fragrances from experiences on outside of 

Derek Lam’s window at 10 Crosby Street.

10 stories

10 moments

Wedding: Inspiration from Wedluxe

Back in January, I went to the WedLuxe Wedding show.
This was my 3rd time going!

The first time as a married woman. It was totally a different perspective. My time as a bride was amazing...but I don't think I milked it to it's full potential but now it's my time to guide brides into the "light", help them make the best choices and show off awesome ideas.

Rimmel London Magnif'Eyes Mono Eyeshadow Swatches

I've been playing with these for months!

I couldn't wait to wait to post these on the blog.

Rimmel London Magnif'Eyes Mono Eyeshadows ($5.99 CAN)

I'm really impressed with the pigmentation of these drug store eyeshadows!

The formula is extremely smooth and blendable.

These new shadows come in three finishes: glitter, matte and shimmer.

SWATCHES:

I should also add that these babies are waterproof & crease-proof!

Go out and get them now!!!

My Olistika Experience

Do you see yourself as a person who is not afraid to try new experiences? 

Do you look at things with an open mind? 

If you answered yes to these questions, you should try Olistika. 

What is Olistika?

A new concept wellness centre (Toronto, Ontario) that combines aromatherapy, reflexology & reiki to deeply but gently balance you mentally, emotionally and physically.

Back in December, I had the opportunity to try a session. I won't lie, I was nervous. But I was really interested in seeing what it's all about. This non-­invasive technique energizes you using  a combination of Aromatherapy, Reflexology and Reiki. It's completely natural. My session was conducted by Filippo Conte- owner of Olistika. He made sure that he explained everything to me in advance before we got started. The most important thing is that he made me feel at ease. The whole concept of accessing your ‘holistic toolkit’ was something totally foreign to me.

What happened in the session?
It was a combination of Aromatherapy, Reflexology and Reiki. Coolest part was that I able to pick my own blends for aromatherapy. Filippo customized it and got it right on the first try. I should add that these essential oils are 100% vegan. The reflexology part was very calming. It involves your feet, hands and head. The main point of reflexology is to get you to relax and on the path of healing. Did you know that points on your feet, hands and head link to different parts in your body? Lastly, the star of the show- Reiki. It is "a natural hands-on energy healing technique that deeply but gently balances you mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually by releasing blockages you carry, removing obstacles and restoring your depleted life force energy." I swear after my session, I felt EXTREMELY peaceful and re-energized!

I also left with three lovely products that I use daily:

Olistika MIST Lavender- Spray
Since I have bad sinus issues, I usually mist it in my face. But it can also be a room spray, sprayed on your pillow (to aid sleep) or on your body. Did you know that lavender is antiseptic, bactericidal, anti-fungal and a anti-inflammatory?

Olistika SPECIAL BLEND Healer- Drops
This is amazing on wounds/scrapes. Just apply one to five drops: "the goal is to apply gently, to cover the entire wound and surrounding area (to .5-1" around), to leave a light (dry) sheen of oil on the surface of the skin". It's important to apply two or three times daily.

Olistika SKIN BODY BLEND Winter- Rollerball
You can apply this lightly on skin your face. My favourite place is under the nose. It can also be placed behind the ears, temples or wrists. Apply day or night.

If you're in Toronto, I'd recommend that you visit Olistika for a unique experience.

New Tangle Teezer brushes that you need

I recently had the opportunity to recently attend an intimate gathering for Tangle Teezer made by Shaun Pulfre. He introduced me to three new products:

• The Thick & Curly detangling hairbrush
• The Compact Styler
• Blow Styling tool brush

Perfect Your Skin with the Perfect All-In-One Compact by Mistura Beauty

I hadn’t heard of Mistura Beauty, however, when I discovered that the company was both based in Canada and offered an assortment of all-in-one makeup, I was excited to try some of their products.

My favourite product of the bunch was the 6-in-1 Beauty Solution® Compact. The powder is hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, and promises to mute both rosacea and other blemishes.

You’d apply this like you would a contouring powder – on the outside of your cheeks, on the forehead, down the bridge of your nose. It took a little bit of trial and error for me as the first time I used it, I applied what I normally would when using blush and it was far too dark for me. The best thing to remember is that a little goes a long way – you’ll notice results with just a light dusting of the powder across your whole face.

I saw best results when I used the Mistura Retractable Brush (pictured above) – which along with the compact is perfect for tossing in a purse of carry-on. To complete the look, conceal with the Mistura C-2-P Complexion Corrector and naturally plump your lips with the Mistura Plump & Glow lip gloss.

To find Mistura Beauty retailers near you, use their handy store locator.

Too Faced Chocolate Melted and Melted Metal Liquified Lipsticks Swatches

I remember when I seen these Too Faced Chocolate melted and melted metal liquified lipsticks ($25 CAN) pop up on Instagram. I knew I had to have them!

For the ladies out of the loop, these six liquified cocoa-powder-infused shades come in two formulas: Melted & Melted Metal. Expect pigmented, high shine and a yummy chocolate scent.

SWATCHES:

Surprisingly, my favourite shade was Chocolate Cherries!
 Remember that a little goes a LONG way.

Will you be checking out the Too Faced Chocolate melted & 
melted metal liquified lipsticks line?

SHOP:

Achieve a Romantic Spring Look with Caryl Baker Visage

Of course, no beauty look can be completed without an exceptional skincare base.

I've been a fan of Caryl Baker Visage's papaya-powered skin care line for some time - it's the perfect mix of exfoliating (papaya contains enzymes that help remove dead skin cells) and hydrating. Visage has given the line a face lift, which launched this month, as the Caryl Baker Papaya Perfecting Collection.

The Papaya Perfecting Daily Renewing Moisturizer ($39.20 on sale) contains SPF 30 and is gentle enough to be used daily, while still exfoliating the skin's surface to remove dead skin cells. This helps promote radiance and an even skin tone.

The Papaya Perfecting Eye Awakening Treatment ($30.40 on sale) is a must for getting a perfect under-eye concealer application. The eye treatment is moisturizing and conditions the delicate under-eye area. It also helps smooth puffy, tired eyes and reduces the appearance of dark circles. Basically - I'm sold!

If you're feeling the Papaya and want to include it more in your routine, the line also includes more skincare products, including a cleanser and exfoliator, and a Papaya Leaf Herbal Tea that I am obsessed with!

Now that you've established your skincare routine, it's time to put away the neutrals you used all winter and experiment with some fun colours for spring!

Confession time: I pretty much never wear coloured makeup. I keep everything very, very neutral and beige. However, once I played around with the Caryl Baker Spring 2016 Bloom Collection, I've actually found that some of these floral-inspired shades really perk up my face and flatter me.

Here are some of my favourite products from the launch:

Caryl Baker Blush in "Rose Garden" ($22.50): A true rose blush that would flatter a multitude of complexions. It's got a slight hint of sparkle, so it perks up the face, but doesn't apply any glitter.

Caryl Baker Eyeshadows in "Sweet Pea" (slightly frosty peach-pink), "Buttercup" (matte pale yellow), "Hydrangea" (slightly sparkly blue-green) ($18): These colours go so well together! I use Buttercup all over my lid and then Sweet Pea applied on the crease, with Hydrangea blended along the outer corners and as a liner. It really brightens up my whole face!

Caryl Baker Lipstick in "Morning Dew" ($18): Again, a perfect rose shade. There is also a little mirror that pops out when you remove the lid - perfect from streamlining your makeup bag!

Caryl Baker Lipgloss in "Romance" ($18): This shade is so perfect for day and light, and layers expertly with the Morning Dew Lipstick.

Visit a Caryl Baker store quickly, because this collection is limited edition!

Experience the new Caryl Baker Visage

I love visiting old gems. Last month, I had the opportunity to go to Markville mall's Caryl Baker Visage location. I was blown away by the upgrades! Stepping into the store was totally a different experience. I remember the old set up when you walked in and you would see the front to the back of the store. Now when you walk in, you are greeted by a desk in the front. Also all the products are now at the cash. Which is kind of enticing when you are walking through the mall. 

My favourite part of the whole location is that the treatment rooms are private. I remember years ago when I went, my location only had a privacy screen. I found that part not very effective for me because I am always easily distracted. This room ensures privacy- also it eliminates the noisiness of the mall.

When I went I had three complimentary services done. I started with an pure oxygen facial, then had my brows waxed and tinted. Ended with a little bit of make up. Overall, I liked all my services! My face expert had explained everything that she was going to do, throughout my services. I had no questions in the end which is very rare for someone like me. FYI: Makeup wise I didn't get to fully explore due to time but the colours looked nice.

Tinting my brows with dye.

Will I go back? 
I definitely think that I would. Having the location in the mall is very convenient for me. One of the best things that I learned about while I there is they have an educational beauty program! Future face experts have the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of beauty to effectively do their job. Often times people are hired from various places and have different ways about going about certain procedures. It can be confusing. This is the best way to effectively do your job so that no matter what location your client goes to- they will still have the great service.

Currently Obsessed: MAKE UP FOR EVER Aqua Liner Liquid Eyeliner

I was going through a beauty dilemma back in the end of 2015. I just could't find a good eyeliner that would stay put on me. That's when my Make Up For Ever fairy introduced me to the Aqua Liner Liquid Eyeliner ($27.00 CAN). I'm in LOVE!

Ugh.. Where do I start. This stuff is literally smudge-proof!

The colour that I got is 13 Mat Black - matte black

What makes this product so amazing: 

It can withstand life! Tears, water- It's budge proof!

To remove:
I use a few methods: Make up wipes, q-tip with liquid make up remover or a cleansing balm.

The tip:
Foam-tip applicator for precise application. Great for beginners or pros!

Random amazing facts: 
This liner is apart of Make Up For Ever's Aqua collection created for the Parisian Aquatic Ballet. Yes..Aquatic Ballet. That's not even the crazy part.. These products were tested under water for 5 hours. Also fragrance free and ophthalmologist tested.

What else do you need to know to convince you that this is what you need in your life?

Marc Jacobs Beauty- Velvet Noir Major Volume Mascara

This hands down was the BEST PR package I have ever gotten in my life.

Randomly a black box with Marc Jacobs Beauty showed up at my door. 

To my surprise when I opened it- it played a video from Marc Jacobs with a compartment holding a black mascara.

The video was a story about Marc watching his mother apply mascara and the techniques that she used. Which gave birth to the idea for the Velvet Noir Major Volume Mascara ($33.00 CAN).

Now this mascara is amazing! 

Definitely one of the best ones that I have tried in while. 

Just look at this brush!

Rich voluminous mascara that gives you the look of wearing falsies.

I'd recommend that you do around three strokes throughout your lashes to get the best effect.

 I'm just in love with really dark formulas. This mascara contains Flash Volume Complex™. It helps to create fullness, length and smudge-proof lashes. Also it's free of: Parabens, Phthalates and Sulfates.

Have you tried this mascara yet?