A post full of random-ness. My gray hair, The new Revlon foundation, Etc.

(Image Source)

Okay, the image at the bottom is completely random (well, more random than the first one - kinda?!) but I thought it was totally cute.

Anyway, what that arrow pointing to is, one crazy strand of gray (snow white, actually) hair, trying to steal the show today. haha!

One thing that I always put off is dying my hair. I really don't like dying my hair. It's a pure nuisance to me. But, it seems these days I can't get away with not dying my hair for months at a time like I use to, or I'll have a ton of these little grays shining through my bangs. Honestly, it really isn't a big deal and I'm not really freaking out about it - just really surprised!

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I think I saw my first gray at 19, then I had around three at 20-21. In the past two years now, it seems that every time I do my hair, I'm finding more and more. I'm not at all going to be surprised if I'm completely gray by 30.

I guess the upside is, more trips to the salon! :)

In the mean time, boxed hair dye is my BFF. I like trying new ones all of the time, and I'm hoping to step out of my comfort zone sometime soon to try different colors (some of you may know, I've been wanting to try red for months). For now, I got a box of this "foam" dye from Clairol. I might do it tonight if I'm up to it, but when I do, I'll be sure to let you all know how well it works!

Last week I stopped in CVS and picked up the new Revlon Age Defying DNA Advantage Foundation because I had a really awesome coupon. It's regularly $14.99, and it was on sale for $10 with $2 Back in Extra Cash. Then, I had a $5 coupon from this past Sunday's insert, which basically made the foundation $3. On top of that, I used Extra Cash I had from earlier in the week to pay for it, and ending up paying nothing. I love deals like that!

What did stink though, was they were out of most of the shades and it was after 10PM on the last day of the sale, and I was at the only 24 hour CVS in my neighborhood. I didn't want to miss out completely though, so I picked up a shade that is too light on it's own, but it will be useful to mix with some of my other foundations that are too dark. I use self tanner all year round, so I always keep a really light shade on hand for mixing.

I ended up getting #10 Bare Buff, which is the 2nd to lightest foundation. The lightest shade had a slight pink tone, whereas the 2nd appeared more yellow/beige.

Revlon DNA Advantage #10 Bare Buff

I've used it a few times now for mixing and I really like the consistency of it. It's super silky and creamy and has a really radiant finish. I can't really state my thoughts about it overall because I haven't worn it alone, but I will try it sometime soon when I have little to no tan.

Here's a comparison to the foundation I typically use for lightening my foundations. It's actually almost empty, because I use really often. Definitely recommend using Neutrogena Healthy Skin for that purpose.

On another note, thought I'd throw in this completely random tidbit. While doing some heavy duty cleaning and getting rid of a lot of my old things, I came across this dainty, sterling silver cross ring. I had almost tossed it away on accident. I remember I purchased it at a garage sale when I was probably around 7 or 8 years old. I probably paid a quarter for it. I know I haven't worn it in over ten years, but I shined it up and it's as good as new. I've been wearing it all week and I just think it's so cute. I like how the cross dangles around. It gives me something to fidget with during the day. It also reminds me of my childhood and how almost every day in the summer for years my Mom and I would stop at every garage sale and find some really neat things. By the age of 7, I was already an expert identifying different types of glass, and if an item was antique or not. I had a real knack for vintage jewelry and porcelain knick knacks. My favorite were owls, I have no idea why.

Lastly, what is up with the weather lately in Chicago!? I couldn't wait for summer to be over, and now that summer is over, it has been gloomy, cloudy and rainy every day. Not cool. Not cool at all. 

Target parking lot rainbow.. woop woop!

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend! I'll have a real post for you guys tomorrow. haha

P.S. I'm totally aware I've been wearing the same jacket all week. It's not cold enough out for a real jacket, and I like that this one has a hood for when it rains. ;)

First Impressions + partial review: Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer!

Some of you maybe remembered, last week I stopped in at Sephora on the search for a tinted moisturizer. I've never used one prior, but my curiosity got the best of me, and I picked up a sample of Laura Mercier's Oil-Free Tinted Moisturizer. (original post here)

Laura Mercier makes two formulations of the tinted moisturizers, one containing oil and one that is oil free. Both formulations have the same shade range and same SPF (20). I wasn't sure which one to choose, but when I told the Sephora Sales Associate that I have sensitive/prone to breakouts skin, she recommended I try the oil free version. I was matched to the shade "Sand".

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:

Oil Free Formula - This lightweight foundation that can be reapplied as necessary, offers sun protection for sensitive or acne prone skin, oil control, and provides hydration to prevent dryness.

Regular Formula - Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer is a sheer, lightweight formula with a hint of color you can use in place of foundation for a natural finish and a healthy glowing complexion. It contains a SPF 20 for the ultimate in anti-aging prevention.

(The oil free formula is described as a foundation, and the regular formula rather calls it a "formula" that can be used in place of a foundation. I'm guessing because the regular version acts as more of a moisturizer with a tint and with the oil free version, it's more of a "tint" that doesn't give off added moisture.)

Aside from the tinted moisturizer, I was given a sample of the oil free primer. Every time I've used the tinted moisturizer, I've always used the primer beforehand. The first time using this, I attempted to apply the tinted moisturizer with my fingers. That doesn't work too well. I was really surprised that the texture is rather thick and doesn't spread evenly. I resorted to using my Sigma F80 Flat Top Foundation brush, and it worked out much better. So I basically apply it the same way I would any foundation. Dot it all over my face and blend with my brush. Because it's sheer, I'll use a little more product than I'd normally wear with a heavier foundation. The tube is 1.7 oz, compared to most foundations weighing in at 1 oz, so you can afford to use a little more. On my normal skin, (not oily or dry, a little shine in the t-zone) the finish is a satin - light dewy (not greasy) finish. Most of the reviews I've read for this said it has a very dewy, even an oily finish. I didn't experience that. I do have to set with powder though, because it seems to highlight the pores on my cheeks and add shine to my nose and chin. It instantly transforms when I apply my Guerlain Meteorites (my setting powder) and buff it into my skin with a kabuki. The finish is absolutely gorgeous. It looks incredibly natural and completely undetectable on my face. It looks like I may of using a dusting of a very fine milled powder, but that's all. It lasts well through an 8 hour day with little fading by the time I wash my face.

KEY POINTS

- This works really well with the oil-free primer. An oil-free primer or moisturizer would be the best choice as a base to keep the foundation from slipping. 

- Because the formula/texture isn't very emollient, it's a must priming or moisturizing the skin beforehand in order for the foundation to smooth out well - Especially for those with dry skin.

- The coverage is light. It will even out the complexion and add color to your skin. It is buildable, but blemishes will need an extra concealer if you want them completely covered. 

- Should be set with a dusting of setting powder.

Here's a little comparison for color reference. Sand may look really dark (even darker than MAC Studio Fix Fluid NC40! But, less yellow) when swatched, but it sheers out nicely. It's a good match for skintones from NC30-NC40. I usually stick around NC25-30 these days and oddly, it looks better when I don't use self tanner on my face. When I have self tanner on and use the tinted moisturizer, my face looks too dark. Strange?

I snapped a couple of photos last week wearing it, I was probably around NC25-30. (wow, i look pale!) I didn't wear any bronzer or blush, just MAC's Magically Cool Liquid Powder in Honey Rose on my cheeks for a little bit of a peachy glow.

Although I do like it, I'd like to test out the regular formula (as many prefer it over the oil free) and go from there. I may pick up another shade of the oil free because I think Sand looks a little orange at times, or try Bobbi Brown as I know she specializes in yellow toned foundations.

Hope you're all having an awesome day!

Jewelmint Ever Frost Ring Review with Lots of Photos!

Jewelmint Ever Frost Ring

ITEM DESCRIPTION: Alpine trend alert! Get lost in a winter wonderland with this sleek design. Our 1� wide geometric ring boats pave crystal icing and pearly white enamel. Pulling off this piece yearlong is easy with its glowing 14k gold-plated sides. Give your closet a fresh spin, and live out your Snow White fantasy in the most modern way.

I can't really say all of the Jewelmint pieces are "me", but I'll usually find at least one piece a month that I really like. This month the only others I liked were the Western Dream Earrings, Lunar Blue Necklace and Silver Zip Bracelet. I've liked the Silver Zip Bracelet for a while now, and I feel like I'll regret not eventually getting it. I guess I'm just waiting for a good coupon code to come along (a really good coupon code).

I liked the Ever Frost Ring a lot in the photos, and I'm really happy with my choice. I love mixing metals and the fact that it's silver, gold and white, it's very versatile. I've been wearing it with both silver, gold and rose gold and it always matches great. I really like the way it looks on the same hand with my Rose Gold watch combined with a silver bracelet. It's really trendy, edgy and is definitely a statement ring. 

It seems very well crafted, and although it may look really heavy, it's actually pretty lightweight. My ring finger is a 6, but since I didn't know how the sizing would run, to be safe, I figured I'd order a 7. I'd most likely wear it on pointer finger or middle finger anyway. Well, I got the 7 and it falls right off my ring finger but fits fine on my pointer and middle finger - it's not very snug on either, so I believe it runs slightly large, if anything.

Did you order anything this month?

If you haven't heard of Jewelmint, check it out HERE. There are so many coupon codes out that it's hard to keep track of them all, but the best codes are always for first time purchases.

The best code I found for New Members/First Purchase is 60% OFF Your first piece with code: EXITPOP60. It's not stated when it expires (it may be 9/30). It will bring the $29.99 price tag down to $11.99 AND you get free shipping. Awesome deal.

For Existing Members, the best I've found is $8 OFF your next purchase with code: AEREE. You'll end up paying $21.99 with free shipping, which isn't too bad depending on the item you choose (some seem more worth it than others).

Happy Shopping!

Things I've been loving lately + FOTD!

1) Clarins Vital Light Serum - This is probably the best smelling serum I've ever owned. I've been using this for the past couple of weeks and my skin has been looking fabulous. I will have a full review to come soon, but so far, I'm obsessed with it. 

2) Dr. Brandt Dark Circles Away� Collagen Eye Serum - I got a couple samples of this from Sephora and I've been using it every night. I really do see a reduction in my dark circles (temporary, of course) and it moisturizes really well. I'd love to purchase it, but at $55 for a 1/2 oz... errr, I doubt it. Hopefully I can grab some more samples.

3) Anastasia Clear Brow Gel  - Now that my brows are so thick, a brow gel is very necessary. Even though I love my MAC Brow Set for tinting my brows, it doesn't hold my un-ruly brows in place all day. So, I've been using a mini version of the Anastasia Brow Gel that came with a kit of mine and it's worked the best for me so far! I'll be purchasing a full-size once I go to ULTA. 

4) MAC Paint Pots I've been loving my MAC Paint Pots lately and for the past month, it's all I've been wearing on my eyes. They're easy and they last. I want more!

5) MAC 181SE Kabuki Brush - I got this in a recent swap and I've been using it every say for setting powder. It's a perfect brush to keep in my bad for touch ups. I'm going to try finding a back-up or two.. ;)

6) Real Techniques Blush Brush - This has become my favorite brush for applying blush. Everything about the brush is perfect. It's soft, the shape is perfect and it applies & blends my blush really well. 

7) Physician's Formula Eye Booster Eyeliner in Ultra-Black - I got this liner on a whim, and I'm so happy I did. I can confidently say this is my favorite liquid liner pen of all time. The tip is amazing and it makes applying eyeliner incredibly fast and easy. It also lasts all day!

8) Maybelline One by One and Maybelline The Falsie's - Mascaras I've been alternating between these two mascaras for the past month, and I like them a lot for dramatic lashes. I would re-purchase both! 

9) E.L.F Studio Conditioning Lip Balm in Peaceful Pink - I just started using this after having it for a few months. It's so moisturizing and the perfect pink for every day. It's for sure one of my favorite products from E.L.F. I just hate the darn packaging! Me + Lip Brushes = no bueno. 

10) Milani Lipstick in Rosehip - I was looking for a bright pink lipstick that is more pink than fuschia - which many bright pinks tend to lean toward, and I came across Rosehip. This is a definite must-have. I'll do a post on it soon, as you can't tell the true color from my FOTD below.. In the mean time, you can drool over Temptalia's swatch of it.

(Image Credit: Temptalia.com)

Here's a FOTD from the other day. I've pretty much been doing the same look for the past couple of weeks.

Face: 

MAC Select Moisturecover Concealer NW20 (under eyes, applied with my fingers)

Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua B30 + 1/2 pump of Guerlain Parure Extreme in #3 for added coverage (applied with Coastal Scents Bionic Buffer Brush)

Ben Nye Neutral Set Powder (under eyes to set concealer, applied with a tapered blending brush)

Guerlain Meteorites in Mythic (to set foundation, applied with a kabuki brush)

MAC Magically Cool Liquid Powder in Honey Rose (on my cheeks & bridge of my nose, applied with Sigma F50)

Physician's Formula Healthy Glow Bronzer (for added warmth and contour, applied with MAC #168 brush)

Eyes: 

MAC Rubenesque Paint Pot (all over my lids, applied with my fingers)

MAC Jardin Aires Pigment (all over my lid, on top of Rubenesque)

MAC Groundwork Paint Pot (smudged into my upper and lower lashline with a pencil brush)

MAC Quite Natural Paint Pot (smudged into my crease with a pencil brush, blending any harsh edges with my fingers)

Physician's Formula Eye Booster Eyeliner in Ultra Black (upper lashline)

Revlon Colorstay Eyeliner in Black (on my waterline)

Maybelline One by One Mascara

Brows:

MAC Eyebrow Retractable Crayon in Spiked

Anastasia Clear Brow Gel

Lips:

MAC Lipliner Pencil in Oak

E.L.F. Studio Conditioning Lip Balm in Peaceful Pink

Milani Lipstick in Rosehip (applied very sheerly)

Sally Hansen Extreme Lip Plumper (applied on top for shine)

Btw, the leopard scarf I'm wearing is from Forever 21. I purchased it last week, and I've been wearing it almost every day! Love it.