Makeup and Beauty Blog | Makeup Reviews, Swatches and How-To Makeup

I Get All the Feels From The Texture of These New NARS Dual-Intensity Blushes…

February 23rd, 2015 by Karen 43 Comments

As Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock so eloquently put it, “It takes two to make a thing go right… It takes two to make it out of sight.”

Truer words were never spoken, particularly as they pertain to the new NARS Dual Intensity Blushes ($45 each). 🙂

Yeah, even though I braced myself for it, I still freaked out a little when I opened one of these compacts for the first time and saw, not one, but TWO blushes within it with the same pattern on the pans as the NARS Dual-Intensity Eyeshadows (which I love, and these feel very similar).

Hearts may or may not have shot out of from my eyes.

NARS designed these new blushes, which arrive March 4 as six $45 duos, to 1) look and feel weightless on the skin, and 2) to create two completely different looks. Applying them with a dry powder brush paints your cheeks with bold color, while a wet brush seduces your skin with a softer watercolor-like effect, similar to what you’d get from a cheek tint, and you can wear the shades separately or mix them together.

The one called Frenzy fuses a sparkling pinkish gold highlighter with a shimmering bright tangerine…

NARS Dual-Intensity Blush in Frenzy — Dual-Intensity Blush in Frenzy

While Fervor partners a shimmering soft pink with a deep, sparkling coppery rose…

NARS Dual-Intensity Blush in Fervor — Dual-Intensity Blush in Fervor

And if you’re craving a trip to the tropics…Craving combines a sparkling seashell pink highlighter with a shimmering beachy bronze.

NARS Dual-Intensity Blush in Craving — Dual-Intensity Blush in Craving

WARNING: Do not panic when you see Panic…which is the brightest duo of the six. It contains a shocking, shimmering fuchsia and a shimmering orangey pink.

NARS Dual-Intensity Blush in Panic — Dual-Intensity Blush in Panic!

If you’re just plain partial to pinks in general, you might adore Adoration, which pairs a soft, sparkling baby pink with a shimmering hot pink.

NARS Dual-Intensity Blush in Adoration — Dual-Intensity Blush in Adoration

Last, but certainly not least, there’s Jubilation, yay! It partners a sparkling hot gold with a soft and shimmering nude peach.

NARS Dual-Intensity Blush in Jubilation — Dual Intensity Blush in Jubilation

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Makeup and Beauty Blog Monday Poll, Vol. 361

February 23rd, 2015 by Karen 34 Comments

You might be wondering, “So what in tarnation is this Monday Poll thing anyway!?”

Well, it isn’t exactly a poll. It’s more of a constantly evolving (devolving?), somewhat random list of questions I’ve been putting out to readers every Monday morning for the past seven years. (It’s like a kickstart for your brain.) I’ve always enjoyed reading your answers in the comments, and I hope you enjoy reading mine.

Most awkward moment you’ve ever had at work?
To protect the innocent, I’m going to NOT say names, but at my last job…

Even just thinking about it makes my skin crawl!

My coworker — I think this was before I met El Hub — he walked up to my cube one day and kind of posted there, like he was gonna talk to me as usual, so he starts talking to me, and over the course of the conversation, he begins to unbutton his shirt to show off his manly chest. And his gold chains.

It was so wrong! And I remember thinking, oh god, just avert your eyes! Just avert your eyes and try to change the subject! Turn toward your computer!!

So I just started typing nonsense really fast on my computer. I opened my Outlook and just started typing, “asdf;lkjasdf;lkjasdf,” and eventually he got the hint and went away.

Ugh! I can’t even think about it without feeling grossed out.

What were your favorite books to read when you were a teenager?
Oh! Well, I was really into a lot of the popular series at the time. Sweet Valley High was one of my favorites. I also loved V.C. Andrews. Oh, my gosh. Flowers in The Attic and all of the other V.C. Andrews series.

I read a lot of poppy, pulpy stuff in high school.

Well, for my outside school reading time.

Just generally, which one would you rather wear: sharp or smudgy eyeliner?
Smudgy, because it’s more casual and easier to do, and I love that it looks a little messy…’cause I’m kinda messy too.

What do you listen to while you work (if you listen to anything)?
If I’m writing, I like to have it quiet, because for some reason that part of my brain doesn’t work when there are any distractions, but if I’m working on pictures or other things, then there’s this iTunes Radio station I recently found called Electronic Chill that’s very soothing and peppy at the same time.

When it comes to clothing, what colors do you wear well?
I know that I don’t wear bright yellow well.

I tried last weekend. I went to Nordstrom to return some things, and I tried on this bright yellow sweatshirt because it was super soft, but I looked absolutely terrible in it.

I looked like I hadn’t seen the sun in six months.

But I do like the way I look in jewel tones and purples and emerald and deep, rich teals. And also certain pastels, like light pink, light blue and mint green.

Ironically, however, my entire wardrobe is gray right now…

Your turn. 🙂 Just copy and paste the following questions into a comment with your answers. I look forward to reading ’em!

1. Most awkward moment you’ve ever had at work?
2. What were your favorite books to read when you were a teenager?
3. Just generally, which one would you rather wear: sharp or smudgy eyeliner?
4. What do you listen to while you work (if you listen to anything)?
5. When it comes to clothing, what colors do you wear well?

Hello from sunny and rather cold and windy Northern California! Did you watch the Oscars last night?

Tabs was a nervous wreck, so I had to get out of the house. You’re going to laugh, but I ended up going to see Fifty Shades of Grey.

But it was fun! My friend snuck in a couple tiny bottles of Prosecco (shh), so we were having wine and eating popcorn while watching the movie.

And the girls I was with are girls from the salon, so they’re very rambunctious. Every single time Christian Grey would, like, get naked, somebody would go, “Meow!” or “RRRAARRW!” 🙂 It was fun.

I hope you’re having a very nice morning so far. My tea is beginning to kick in, so I’m gettin’ fired up.

Have a wonderful rest of your day and a great week. Talk to you soon.

Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,

Karen

Sundays With Tabs the Cat, Makeup and Beauty Blog Mascot, Vol. 335

February 22nd, 2015 by Karen 9 Comments

Tabs the Cat, The Theory of Kitty Modeling

Tabs is so totally stoked about the Oscars tonight! You know how he’s big into movies and Hollywood, right? Well, everyone who’s anyone wants to work with him. In fact, he’s currently the hottest plus-size tabby in the feline film industry.

He’s actually working on a number of very promising projects related to some of the Best Picture Academy Award nominees.

No question about it, all of these films are sure to be blockbuster smash hits, and not just among feline moviegoers. 🙂

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Comment (Yup, Just Comment) to Win a $50 eGift Card From Sephora! (Ends Monday)

February 21st, 2015 by Karen 718 Comments

** THE GIVEAWAY IS CLOSED **
This giveaway is closed, and the winner has been contacted (CONGRATULATIONS, LORRAINE!!!), but check back next Saturday for another Sephora giveaway.

Win a $50 Sephora e-gift card from Makeup and Beauty Blog

Right now I’m being assaulted by your nephew tabby — assaulted with kitty love. I’m sitting in an awkward position on the couch that is not conducive to tabby lap-sitting. He’s kind of draped over my left hip, making do with what’s available to him. In his eyes, he’s probably claiming what is his, because everything clearly exists for the happiness of the tabby. 🙂

So my new favorite thing to do on weekend mornings is drink chai tea. I use the pre-made mix by Big Train, and it’s SO GOOD. I like to have it while watching Millionaire Matchmaker on Bravo, which they seem to have changed. It’s no longer ordinary millionaire Joes looking for love. Now it’s like Chilli from TLC looking for love. She’s a bonafide celebrity in my book, but some of them are more “celebrities,” as in celebrities in “air quotes.”

Spencer and Heidi were on there to set up Spencer’s sister, Stephanie.

I hate that I know this…

I do have to say that Stephanie Pratt did a good job on the group date, though.

This is so dumb… Why am I talking about this?

Anywho! Trying something a little different with the weekly giveaway today. I’m trying to keep it simple, ’cause in these complicated times, simplicity is always a welcome thing. To enter, check the full details down below, but in a nutshell, just leave a comment.

Good luck, and have a great Oscar weekend. Talk to you soon.

One (1) Sephora eGift card containing $50 sent to the winner by email (international readers, you may opt to receive $50 sent by PayPal instead).

Enter by leaving a comment below.
Open to U.S. and international readers.
You must be 18 or older to enter (or otherwise an adult based on your local laws).
Your comment can be about anything at all, but here are some ideas if you’re stuck:
- Of all the different styles of smoky eyes, what’s your current personal fave?
- Would you wear a color-blocked liner look like this one here.
- What’s your favorite picture/painting on your walls?
- Do you have any birthmarks or moles?
- Somewhere you’re trying to travel this year?
- Is there something important on your mind?
One entry per person.
You must use a valid email address to win.
The giveaway ends on Monday, February 23, 2015 at 11:59 PM (Pacific Time). 🙂

Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,

Karen

Heads Up, Neiman Marcus Beauty Shoppers…

February 20th, 2015 by Karen 11 Comments

Guess what’s happening right meow??

(It’s the Neiman Marcus Spring Beauty Event.)

Just a heads up in case you find yourself near a Neiman Marcus store…or watching Lifetime on the couch while browsing the Neiman website on your phone. There are a bunch of gift with purchases deals from brands including Laura Mercier, La Mer, Bobbi Brown and Le Metier de Beaute.

Also, if your purchases add up to $125 or more, which I know is a lot, they’ll throw in a tote made special for the event by designer Eddie Borgo filled with the following goodies…

Kiehl’s Since 1851 Super Multi-Corrective Eye-Opening Serum
Oribe Beautiful Color Shampoo and Conditioner (I’ve used both and they’re fabulous!)
Molton Brown Ylang-Ylang Body Wash (I love this stuff too)
Amore Pacific Time Response Eye Renewal Creme (another thumbs upl)
Fresh Black Tea Firming Overnight Mask
Yves Saint Laurent Beaute Faux Cils Mascara. (Good ol’ Faux Cils… It’s the Old Faithful of mascaras.)
Lancer The Method: Polish, Cleanse, and Nourish

If you’re a baller and hit the $500 level…1) can I come over to your house and play? 🙂 And 2) you’ll also receive a matching Eddie Borgo wristlet and samples of Sisley Black Rose Cream Mask, Chantecaille Rose de Mai Face Oil and Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair, in addition to all the stuff you get for hitting the $125 level.

The promotion works both in stores and on the Neiman Marcus website, and it runs through March 1, 2015.

Happy shopping! — and if you discover anything that changes yo’ life, please let me know.

3 Chic New Reasons to Bring Your Cheeks to Physicians Formula This Spring

February 20th, 2015 by Karen 23 Comments

1. Physicians Formula Argan Wear Ultra-Nourishing Argan Oil Bronzer ($14.95)

Physicians Formula Argan Wear Ultra-Nourishing Argan Oil Blush — $14.95 Argan Wear Ultra-Nourishing Argan Oil Bronzer, new for spring

Ooh! Fancy pan and fancy bronzer formula. The latter contains argan oil, and it’s supposed to brighten, smooth and tone.

That’s great and all, but they had me at the color. It’s a medium warm brown with a golden sheen, almost like someone down there are at Physicians Formula HQ poured liquid sunshine on the pan.

If you notice any big flecks of gold glitter the first few times you swirl your brush in it, not to worry. The design on the top is an overspray.

Just to note, this one has a strong white floral scent. Luckily, I like it.

For a natural-looking golden glow, I like to dust this just below my cheekbones using a big fluffy brush, and sometimes I also use it as a transition color in my crease.

2. Physicians Formula Argan Wear Ultra-Nourishing Argan Oil Blush ($12.95)

Confession: every single time I open this blush I give it a sniff because, my goodness! — it smells delish. Like wild jasmine on a warm summer night…or wild jasmine on a freezing winter night, but the first one sounds better. 🙂

Like the design on the pan of the new bronzer up above, the pattern on this pan is also an overspray (so you might see some big-honkin’ chunks of gold glitter the first few times you use it).

When the overspray’s gone, what’s left is a neutral, mid-toned pink with light reflecting particles. This one creates a lovely youthful glow, and it gets extra credit because it seems to go with everything I wear on my cheeks or lips. This blush easily holds its own with the department store big boys.

I’ve started blending it on the apples of my cheeks after applying the Argan Bronzer. I love that combo so much that I wish the two of them came together in a duo!
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Charlie the Rainbow Pegasus (and a Special Anniversary)

February 20th, 2015 by Karen 98 Comments

You know how when people say that they feel like a big kid at heart, even though they’re technically adults? Yeah, I think that’s a real thing, because I felt like a kid masquerading as an adult all the way up through my early 30s.

There wasn’t one moment where I woke up and said, “Oh, gee! Would ya look at that?? How cool! I’m an adult now!” like a butterfly emerging from a chrysalis.

It happened slowly over the course of a few years…

Even before I started thinking of myself as a grownup, I still went to work and paid my bills and did the regular adult jazz, but I never quite felt like an honest-to-goodness adult.

Then a couple of big life things happened. The first was my friend Jen’s parents passing away, and the second was El Hub’s mom getting cancer.

The kid in my heart didn’t disappear…but she had to let grownup Karen take over for a while.

Every once in a while, kid Karen lets me know she’s still kicking around, though, like when I met this stuffed blue pegasus with her rainbow mane.

Yeah, this was a Valentine’s Day present from El Hub.

Seriously, my friend, if you can, marry a man who knows that you will derive great joy from a blue pegasus because SHE HAS A RAINBOW LIGHTNING BOLT ON HER BUTT.

This toy brings me joy (just made a rhyme!). I’ve named her Charlie, and here she’s posing for you with flowers. 🙂

P.S. TGIF!

P.P.S. Today — actually this very day — marks the official eight-year anniversary of Makeup and Beauty Blog.

Yup, eight years ago today I typed up my very first post.

10,223 posts later…WE’RE STILL TALKING ABOUT MAKEUP AND PLUSH RAINBOW TOYS WITH LIGHTNING BOLTS ON THEIR BUTTS, LOL!

And I’m still typing “LOL” and using ellipses…

Holy sh*t, right!? I’ve written more than 10,200 posts over 2,900 days. I don’t know if I should be embarrassed or proud!

Probably a bit of both…

You know what, though? I’ve had fun. 🙂 I hope you have too.

Comment to Win L’Occitane’s 28 Days Divine Skin Renewal Program (a $130 Value)

February 19th, 2015 by Karen 208 Comments

L'Occitane 28 Days Divine Renewal Program — Comment to win the L’Occitane 28 Days Divine Renewal Program, a $130 value

A lot can happen in 28 days.

Like, there could be a zombie apocalypse in England (you know what movie I’m talking about, don’t lie!!).

You could also get softer, smoother skin, and perhaps L’Occitane’s new 28 Days Divine Renewal Program ($130) can help with that.

It comes with 28 individual treatments of essential oils for more luminous, regenerated skin — one set of seven for each of the four weeks in a span of 28 days, which coincides with skin’s natural 28-day renewal cycle.

Each week in the program has a different focus.

Week 1: gentle exfoliation. Pistacia lentiscus, or “mastic tree” essential oil, acts as a gentle exfoliator by encouraging the skin’s natural process of shedding to result in softer, smoother skin.
Week 2: hydration and nutrition. A unique blend of four vegetable oils combine with cistus essential oil help nourish and hydrate the skin.
Week 3: balance. Myrtle and rosemary essential oils work together to improve skin’s overall well-being.
Week 4: renewal. Carrot, cypress and immortelle essential oils work to improve the visible signs of aging for a glowing complexion.

I’ve just about finished my first cycle of the program, and I have to say — I like the results.

My biggest skin dilemma lately has been hydration — rather, my skin’s complete lack of it — and the oils have helped. My skin feels softer and nowhere near as dry as it was before I started the program, and I also see a slight improvement in luminosity, although it’s been subtle…

No breakouts at all, though, during the program, so whoop-whoop!

The program is available now for $130 at L’Occitane counters, stores and online.

And um…it’s also potentially available right now FOR FREE, thanks to L’Occitane and today’s giveaway. 🙂

One lucky MBB reader will win the complete 28 Days Divine Renewal Program (a full set of the essential oils) to try at home.

To enter, just leave a comment below, and it can be a comment about anything at all, like…tell me about your favorite L’Occitane product, or how your skin’s been behaving lately, or type out all of the names of all of the frogs (or frog princes) you’ve kissed throughout your life.

What I’m trying to say is this: any comment at all. Yes, girl. It’s that easy.

More deets…

Enter by leaving a comment below about anything (like I said, anything at all). The deadline to enter is Friday, February 27, 2015 at 11:59 PM Pacific. Entrants must enter using a valid email address to win. Giveaway is open to individuals of the United States who have reached the age of majority according to their local laws (18 with these exceptions: Alabama and Nebraska, 19; Mississippi, 21). After the giveaway ends, my tabby overlord and I will select one (1) winner at random from the entries left in the comments below. Void where prohibited by law.

Good luck! 🙂

Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,

Karen