Review: Huda Beauty Obsessions Eyeshadow Palette in Topaz

Long time no review, beauty addicts! ♥ I don't want to bore you with the details of why I've been gone for so long, but I figured I would come back with a review of something near and dear to my heart--an eyeshadow palette. Recently, I have not been buying a lot of makeup at all. In fact, there was a span of nine months where I didn't buy any makeup at all (shocking, I know). However, when I saw this beauty in store, it was pretty easy to convince myself that I needed it. Okay, maybe need is a strong word, but on what planet is a travel-sized neutral eyeshadow palette not a necessity in every girl's makeup bag? While I haven't tested her out yet, I figured this first impressions could still be quite informative. However, if you would like to see a tutorial of me using this palette, make sure to leave a comment down below. Now, let's get into this palette, shall we?

Back of the Huda Beauty Obsessions Eyeshadow Palette in Topaz Containing Manufacturing Information, Ingredients List, Shelf Life, & Social Media Handles

Inside Huda Beauty Obsessions Eyeshadow Palette in Topaz, Which Contains Nine Eyeshadows & a Mirror

Up Close & Personal Shot of the Eyeshadows Inside the Huda Beauty Obsessions Eyeshadow Palette in Topaz

Swatches of the Huda Beauty Obsessions Eyeshadow Palette in Topaz

To my knowledge, these eyeshadows don't have names as there aren't any listed anywhere on the packaging, so (to be clear) I will be describing the shadows and my initial experiences in swatching them going row by row from top to bottom and left to right.


Shade Descriptions Row 1:
♥ Shadow 1 - Light matte tangerine. Swatches very light and takes a few layers to build up to the intensity that it is on my arm. Perfect transition shade.
♥ Shadow 2 - Glittery copper. If you are familiar with the original Huda Beauty Rose Gold Eyeshadow Palette, then you will recognize this formula as one of her textured shades. The base color is very sheer and contains metallic chunky flakes throughout. It is my least favorite shade in the palette, but will probably perform better when used wet or with a sticky primer.
♥ Shadow 3 - Warm, matte medium brown. There was a bit of patchiness with this one, but that blended out when layered.

Row 2:
♥ Shadow 4 - Metallic gold. Beautiful true gold with excellent pigmentation. A shade that is relatively standard in these travel-sized palettes.
♥ Shadow 5 - Matte light peach. Great pigmentation and alternative transition shade.
♥ Shadow 6 - Metallic bronze. Buttery texture and pigmentation with one swipe.

Row 3:
♥ Shadow 7 - Deep chocolatey matte brown. Drier formula, but has excellent pigmentation. Great alternative to a black shade, making this palette more suitable for daytime or transitioning from daytime to nighttime.
♥ Shadow 8 - Slightly darker version of Shadow # 3.
♥ Shadow 9 - Slightly lighter metallic bronze than shadow # 6, but with pink reflects.


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Q&A's

♥What is the Huda Beauty Obsessions Eyeshadow Palette in Topaz?♥

This is a mini or travel-sized eyeshadow palette that is the size of your palm. Because of its neutral color palette, it can act as your standalone or as an accompaniment to some of the funkier shades in your collection. It contains nine eyeshadows and a mirror for $27 and can be purchased at Sephora or directly from the Huda Beauty website. Currently as I am writing this post, the Huda Beauty mini eyeshadow palette range has expanded to 11 palettes containing everything from your neutrals to your brights, purples, blues, greens, and reds.

♥What are the claims made on this product?♥

According to the description on the Sephora website: "Each Huda Beauty Obsessions Eyeshadow Palette is packed with a selection of nine highly pigmented mattes and striking shimmers, all with a smooth and blendable texture...the palettes are super compact and lightweight, making them a must-have for your handbag. The large mirror, conveniently-sized palette, and versatile shade collection allow you to create both classic and playful looks that are easy to apply on-the-go."

♥How do they apply/wear?♥

Since this is just a first impressions, it wouldn't be fair of me to make a judgment based on swatches alone as they can be misleading. However, I can say that the formula of the first row could use some work as those shades don't feel as smooth and effortless as the others.

♥What are my first impressions of this product?♥

Upon first glancing at this palette, I was obsessed with this color story. Despite probably having a dozen different versions of these same colors in my collection already, I cannot deny how convenient it would be to have all these shades in one place in such compact packaging. However, upon swatching, I was disappointed to learn that a couple of the shades--Shadow # 3 & Shadow # 8 and Shadow# 6 and Shadow # 9--look almost identical. Because of this, I would have liked to see a little more variety in the neutrals provided, such as a vanilla highlight shade or a champagne. Other than that, this palette has a lot of potential and I am excited to actually try this out on my eyes.


That's it for this first impression, beauty addicts. Don't forget, if you'd like to see a tutorial with possibly a more in-depth review of this product, make sure to leave a comment below and I'll get right on it.

XO♥

Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick Review & Swatches

You might be wondering to yourself, "Wendy, why are you trying out more Super Stay products? You know it didn't work out for you the first time around." And if you're not thinking that, here's a little bit of a refresher. At the end of last year, Influenster and Maybelline paired up to allow select beauty bloggers to test out their original Super Stay 24 Hour Lip Colors. The formula was so different than any other liquid lipstick I had tried due to its sticky nature and, unfortunately, I didn't find it to be all that wearable or comfortable unless I added the balmy top coat that came with it. While they are still technically liquid lipsticks, I didn't really prefer them for functionality and comfortability. This time around, however, Maybelline has expanded their Super Stay range to include actual matte liquid lipsticks closer to what I think most beauty enthusiasts are familiar with.

In hopes that Maybelline had heard all of our feedback, I rushed to Ulta's website to purchase six out of the ten shades of the brand new Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick when they released. Ironically, I made this purchase before I even knew Influenster was sending me a couple of these very lipsticks to try out. What can I say? We both can spot the next hot item when we see it. Fortunately, this Voxbox was not completely sent in vain as I did not own one out of the two shades sent to me, allowing me to review seven out of the ten in Maybelline's starting line up.

My Current Collection of the Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipsticks. From Left To Right: Loyalist, Dreamer, Lover, Believer, Escapist, Pioneer, & Voyager.

Applicator on the Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick

Arm Swatches of the Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipsticks From Left To Right: Loyalist, Dreamer, Lover, Believer, Escapist, Pioneer, & Voyager

Lip Swatches of the Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipsticks From Left To Right: Loyalist, Dreamer, Lover, & Believer

♥ Loyalist - Light, peachy nude. This is the lightest shade in the collection.

♥ Dreamer - Light, bright pink. Will actually read as more of a nude pink on those with medium and deeper skin tones.

♥Lover - Rosey mauve.

♥Believer - Orchid purple. I found this to be the streakiest of all the shades I tried. Because of how much I applied to try to smooth it out, it never fully dried down, which amplified the stickiness of the formula and felt gooey.

Lip Swatches of the Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipsticks From Left To Right: Escapist, Pioneer, & Voyager

♥ Escapist - Deep smokey plum. Has a much different texture than the other lipsticks in this range; it feels like a whipped mousse texture. It applied a little streaky, but not nearly as streaky as Believer.

♥ Pioneer - Bright, classic red.

♥ Voyager - Rich wine red with slight brown undertones.

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Q&A's

♥What are the Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Lip Colors?♥

The Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Lip Colors are Maybelline's latest edition to the Super Stay line. This liquid lipstick incorporates the Super Stay longwear technology, while giving the wearer a matte lip appearance. You get a lot of product at 0.17 oz for roughly $7.99-$9.49 depending where you shop. The packaging has a very nice, sturdy plastic feel with the bottom component corresponding to the color of the liquid lipstick inside. The applicator itself is much different than anything I've seen at the drugstore with its tear drop shape and hollow center. However, it is reminiscent of the Smashbox Always On Liquid Lipsticks or the YSL Volupte Tint-In-Oils to give you a reference. It is currently available at Ulta and Target and is slowly beginning to roll out into drugstores.

♥What are the claims made on this product?♥

According to the press release sent in the Maybelline Voxbox: "Maybelline's SuperStay Matte Ink provides highly pigmented color in a true matte finish for up to 16 hours of comfortable wear. Unique arrow applicator allows for precise application of liquid matte color."

♥How do they apply/wear?♥

When it comes to application, I like the pointed tip of the applicator as it allows you to create a smooth, sharp lip line if you do not have a lip liner on hand. However, the hole in the center does not allow the applicator to hold enough product and I found myself having to dip into the product four or more times for my relatively small lips. Also, the stickiness of the product seemed to cause a little bit of streaking in certain shades, but I was able to smooth it out with a few passes of the applicator (except in the case of the shade Believer).

After a few minutes of wear, the lipstick is noticeably more of a satin finish and has a slight stickiness to it, but it is nothing compared to the stickiness of the original Super Stay lipstick. It is actually very comfortable. Throughout the day, however, I do notice that these lipsticks become increasingly more matte to the point where there is no transfer whatsoever. In fact, these lipsticks are so budge-proof that if you do want to remove them, you will certainly need a makeup remover or oil to do so.

♥What are my overall thoughts of this product?♥

When Wet n Wild released their Liquid Catsuit Lipsticks, I think it really changed the game for the drugstore. Brands now had the challenge to create products that could best it or at least compete. While Wet n Wild's liquid lipsticks are still my number one because of their pigmentation, comfort, and affordability, these Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipsticks are a close second. They are easy to apply, their pigmentation is buildable, and they last the best out of any liquid lipstick I've ever tried. I would highly recommend picking some of these up as long as you feel you can get past the initial stickiness of the product. If you can, I promise you it will be well worth it. Lastly, if I could add any critique, my hopes would be that Maybelline expands this line to include a better range of nudes that would flatter a wider range of skintones.

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Made it this far? Good! 'Cause you're in for a treat! It's been quite some time since I've hosted a giveaway, so what better way than to give one lucky person the ENTIRE Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick collection. You'll have even more shades than I do! To enter all you need to do is follow me on Instagram and tag a fellow makeup lover below on my Maybelline Super Stay post. The winner will be chosen randomly on August 7th. Good luck, beauty addicts!

XO♥

*Some of the products in this post were sent to me for review by Influenster and Maybelline, but all opinions are my own.

Juvia's Place 9-Piece Turquoise Brush Set - My Review & Experience

As of late, my desire to expand my makeup brush collection has fueled my curiousity of other brands. So when the Insta-famous Juvia's Place came out with a couple of very beautiful brush sets, I rushed over to their website to check them out.

I chose the turquoise brush set because it was the larger of the two, offered a wider variety of brushes, and I liked the overall look of the collection. As this is my very first purchase from the brand, I was not sure what to expect. If I had to mention a positive and a negative, I would say that the shipping was extremely fast, but they just threw the brushes loosely in the box with no extra packaging or even a packing slip. That didn't bother me too much, though, as what really matters is the quality and performance of the brushes.

Without further ado, let's get a closer look at the brushes and what they can do...

Juvia's Place Professional Tapered Brush

♥ Professional Tapered Brush - A large fluffy brush that comes to a very precise point. Perfect for bronzing, contouring, and applying/removing all-over face powder.

Juvia's Place Tapered Powder Brush

♥ Tapered Powder Brush - A smaller version of the previous brush. I really like using this to highlight my cheekbones, but it would also be useful for baking.

Juvia's Place Blending Contour Eye Brush

♥ Blending Contour Eye Brush - A standard fluffy blending brush. Great for laying down transition and crease shades.

Juvia's Place Angled Brow Brush

♥ Angled Brow Brush - As the name suggests, it is an angled brush. However, due to it's width, I wouldn't necessarily recommend it to do winged eyeliner, but I do really like it to do my brows with.

Juvia's Place Brow Concealer Brush

♥ Brow Concealer Brush - A small, flat synthetic brush. Best used to carve out the brows, apply a lid shade, or to spot conceal.

Juvia's Place Pencil Brush

♥ Pencil Brush - A large dome brush that tapers to a point. This brush is great for precisely applying a defining crease shade as well as blending out the previous crease shade due to its unique shape. It is also good for applying shadow to the inner corner.

Juvia's Place Definer Brush

♥ Definer Brush - A short, dense shadow brush. I absolutely love brushes like these and believe everyone should have a few in their arsenal. This one from Juvia's Place is not as stiff as other ones that I own, but it can still get the job done for all the same purposes. It can be used for precise shadow placement (specifically if you're going for the halo eye look), for carving out the brows, and for smudging products on the lower lash line.

Juvia's Place Tapered Blending Brush

♥ Tapered Blending Brush - A slightly longer and more pointy version of the pencil brush. Allows for more precise application compared to a normal blending brush, while still diffusing out the color.

Juvia's Place Mini Blending Brush

♥ Mini Blending Brush - A thin, low-density blending brush. I have only recently began getting into these types of brushes. They are amazing for more intricate detail work, such as diffusing a cut crease or contouring the nose.


So that is the entire turquoise brush set from Juvia's Place. I wanted to give them a fair shot before I reviewed them, so I've been testing them out over the past couple of weeks. I do find myself reaching for them over some of my other brushes due to their softness and how easy they make my makeup application, which attests to their quality. The only real downside is that Juvia's Place does not offer the brushes individually, so if you want to try out specific brushes or stock up on just your favorites, that is not possible at the moment.

This brush set retails for $50, which breaks down to roughly $5.56 per brush.  However, if you use any of the numerous discount codes floating around social media, you will only pay $45 for the brush set, which brings the cost down to $5 per brush. Either way you're getting a massive deal.


XO♥

Inglot Eyeshadow 101: My Customized 40-Pan Palette

It has been quite a while, fellow beauty addicts, but I'll spare you the details. Let's just say that I needed a break, so that when I was ready, I could enjoy beauty blogging again. And what a perfect way to get back into it than to discuss me finally completing my Inglot Freedom Palette after so many years. For those of you that don't know and have been living under a rock, Inglot is famous for their Freedom System of customizable magnetic palettes that are not only extremely sturdy, but also allow you to come up with an endless combination of their products uniquely catered to you. From eyeshadows to concealers and even lipsticks, the possibilities are so numerous that it actually makes your decision that much more daunting and cutthroat.

Inglot Freedom System 40-Pan Eyeshadow Palette

While the magnetic palettes themselves are quite expensive (the 40-pan palette is $39, not including eyshadows), I personally feel like they are an investment worth making because the packaging is so durable and strong that you know your eyeshadows are safe. I also just think it looks really cool once it is fully completed. As for the eyeshadows themselves, they will run you $7 a pop for 2.3 to 3.5 grams of product depending on the color. In a market where purchasing individual eyeshadows can cost you a pretty penny, this makeup artist driven brand remains very cost effective.

When putting together my palette, I aimed to choose colors that excited me and got my creative juices flowing. There is nothing worse than having a beautiful palette and not knowing what to do with it. I knew I wanted staple neutrals with a variety of transition shades and pops of colors that I could feasibly get some use out of. So that's how I ended with the beauty you see above and I can't lie I probably stared at this palette for three days straight after I finally finished it. It's actually pretty sad how happy makeup makes me.

So without further ado, here are the swatches of my first ever 40-pan Inglot palette as well as the shade names and their respective finishes. Asterisks will be placed to the right of my favorite and most highly recommended colors.

Inglot Freedom System Eyeshadow Swatches

♥ Row 1: 373 (Matte), 313 (Matte), 26 (AMC Shine), 7 (AMC Shine), 154 (AMC Shine), 43 (AMC Shine), 397 (Pearl), 341 (Matte)*
♥ Row 2: 337 (Matte), 344 (Matte), 347 (Matte), 48 (AMC Shine)*, 440 (Pearl), 334 (Matte), 71 (AMC), 615 (DS)*
♥ Row 3: 446 (Pearl), 325 (Matte), 377 (Matte), 388 (Matte), 297 (Matte)*, 368 (Matte)*, 616 (DS)*, 608 (DS)
♥ Row 4: 464 (DS), 299 (Matte)*, 303 (Matte), 55 (AMC), 301 (Matte)*, 298 (Matte), 302 (Matte)*, 326 (Matte)
♥ Row 5: 329 (Matte), 151 (AMC Shine)*, 33 (AMC Shine), 338 (Matte), 420 (Pearl), 376 (Matte), 378 (Matte)*, 340 (Matte)

For those of you eyeshadow enthusiasts like myself that are interested in expanding your collection with a few things from Inglot's range, you may be a little confused on where to start. Inglot groups their eyeshadows into five different classifications, but, to be honest, with the exception of their matte and pearl finishes, it can be really hard to tell what finish an eyeshadow falls under as each classification tends to have some formula variations throughout. For instance, most AMC Shine eyeshadows tend to have a subtle frosty finish. However, you will find exceptions, such as eyeshadow 151, which is ultra metallic. Possibly an even better example of Inglot's confusing classification system is the fact that both their AMC and DS formulas swatch exactly the same. The only difference could potentially be found in their benefits and longevity, but even those factors are subjective. To be frank, if you are able to view and swatch these eyeshadows in person at a counter or freestanding store, I would highly recommend taking that opportunity.

However, for the sake of generally explaining each of Inglot's five classifications, here is a brief breakdown:
♥ Matte (pretty self-explanatory)
♥ Pearl aka their version of a satin finish
♥ DS or Double Sparkle are matte-based eyeshadows with glitter particles throughout
♥ AMC or "Advanced Makeup Component" is Inglot's specialty formula that is perspiration-resistant, talc-free, and contains vitamin E. Also appears to be a matte-based formula with glitters throughout
♥ AMC Shine contains the frost and metallic eyeshadows of Inglot's collection


So there you have it, beauty addicts, everything I could possibly tell you concerning Inglot's Freedom System eyeshadows and my experience with them. Do you guys own any Inglot eyeshadows? If so, which ones are your favorites? I'd love to hear your suggestions as I plan on eventually creating a second 40-pan palette.


XO♥

Maybelline Super Stay 24 Lip Color Review, Swatches, & Demo

Over the past two or three years, liquid lipsticks have completely flooded the beauty market. With such a wide variety available, we have come to see amazing, innovative formulas and finishes. Yet, with all of these new products, I think we forget that brands like Maybelline and L'Oreal have been on the liquid lipstick bandwagon long before it became such a craze. In fact, I remember strolling the makeup aisle in college and seeing these very lipsticks, but never being drawn to them. Whether it was because of the packaging, the shade range, or the fact that I was a complete newbie at makeup, I'm glad Maybelline and Influenster have opened my eyes to even more liquid lipstick options. 

Q&A's

♥What are the Maybelline Super Stay 24 Lip Colors?♥

The Maybelline Super Stay 24 Lip Colors are a line of two-step liquid lipsticks. To the best of my knowledge, these have been around for quite some time (five or six years), so they are not a new product in the beauty community. The product consists of a liquid lipstick on one end and a shiny lip balm on the other. The range for this is actually quite large consisting of 31 shades, all of which are very wearable versions of pinks, corals, reds, and plums. They are available at any drugstore where Maybelline is sold for about $10.49.

♥What are the claims made on this product?♥

Here are a few statements made about the Super Stay 24 Lip Colors found on the product page of Maybelline's website:

"This long-lasting lip color won’t cake, dry, or flake thanks to our unique Micro-Flex technology.""Meet the wonder that stretches the limits of long-lasting lip color. Our formula with Micro-Flex technology looks and feels fresh through 24 hours of wear. Available in a collection of shades.""No other longwearing lipstick lasts longer. Period. Our Micro-Flex formula glides on and looks gorgeous all day."

♥How do they apply/wear?♥

I was very suprised at how good the applicator of this product is. It has a nice length to it, bends to the contours of your lips, and isn't an overly stiff material either. Even though the price tag of this product is up there, sometimes drugstore brands cut corners on packaging and it is nice to know that Maybelline did not do that in this instance. 

So, to be clear, when it comes to the applicator, I love how the product applied, however, the two shades I was sent applied very differently. This more likely than not has to do with the fact that they are different finishes. "Keep Up The Flame" is a creme finish, which applied opaquely in one sweep, while "Constant Toast", as a frost finish, required two layers to get the full effect. That being said, I wouldn't recommend applying more than one layer because the formula automatically cracks and flakes off.Once both "dried down" on my lips, however, they felt exactly the same, which is to say that neither of them fully dried down. Instead, they remained quite sticky and tacky to the touch, so if you're the type to smack your lips together this will definitely be an issue. I have found that blotting your lips on a tissue did help the situation though. I also want to note that if you plan on using the liquid lipstick portion on its own to achieve a more matte look, it is not very comfortable when worn that way. I definitely always felt the product sitting on my lips and it felt pretty drying.This feeling was much improved once the shiny balm was applied over top. Instantly the liquid lipsticks became much more flattering and wearable, but I do feel that this balm decreases this supposed 24 hour wear claim because it increases the chances of smudging or transfer if you eat or drink. This is just something to keep in mind.

♥What are my overall thoughts on this product line?♥

While there are quite a few pros and cons that I have found when testing out this product, I do have to admit that I am very pleasantly surprised at the overall quality, specifically of the creme finish. I would not recommend the frostier finishes from this line as they apply streaky and are harder to work with. Overall, I think given the current trends, we have become so accustomed to companies having those ultra matte liquid lipsticks that we are less accepting of liquid lipsticks with other finishes. However, I do think this will be a great alternative for those of you who want to experiment with the trend, but don't like the overly matte feeling.

XO♥

*The products in this post were sent to me for review, but all opinions are my own.

My Absolute Favorite Highlighter: Jouer Powder Highlighter in Citrine (Review & Swatch)

Jouer is one of those brands that seemed to pop onto the radar out of nowhere. I first heard of the brand about a year or so ago when there was a frenzy over their cream highlight in Tiare. It was only within the last couple of months, however, that the brand really intrigued me enough to go out on a limb and purchase something. Long story short...that jump was so well worth it.

Close Up Of Jouer Powder Highlighter in Citrine

Arm Swatch Of Jouer Powder Highlighter in Citrine

Q&A's

♥What are the Jouer Powder Highlighters?♥

The Powder Highlighters are the first powder illuminators in Jouer's range, making a great accompaniment to their pre-existing cream highlighters. Currently, the line contains three different shades -- Rose Quartz (champagne pink), Topaz (rose gold), and Citrine (gold) -- however, it has already been confirmed that Jouer has every intention of extending this line. In fact, in late November, expect to see the release of their shade Ice, which will be a holographic pearl highlight for paler skin tones. If you are lucky enough to snag one of these highlighters, they are available on Jouer's website for $24 PLUS receive 15% off if you use one of their affiliate codes.

♥What are the claims made on this product?♥

Here are the claims made, which were found directly on Jouer's website: "Ultra-fine pearls and luminescent pigments create the ultimate, "lit-from-within" glow. This creamy, powder formula is long-wearing, highly pigmented, and layers with our best-selling cream Highlighter for the perfect radiant finish."

♥How does the product apply/wear?♥

A little of this product truly goes a LONGGG way with this highlight and that's coming from someone who loves an intense glow. Because of that, I recommend using a smaller fan brush to apply it so that you can have more control and build it up to your liking. I also would like to note that this is the ONLY highlight I have owned and tried that is this smooth, does not emphasize ANY texture, and gives the skin a wet, dewy glow. Other than that, I feel that it lasts a really long time on the face and doesn't travel all over the place the way chunkier highlights can.

♥What are my overall thoughts on this product?♥

I've been using the Jouer Powder Highlighter in Citrine every day for over two weeks straight, which, considering my massive highlight collection, really speaks to how obsessed I am with it. From the sleek gold magnetic packaging to the slick wet sheen it gives to the skin, I am already making a decent dent in this bad boy. That is not to say you'll go through this highlight quickly, I've just been dousing myself in it every chance that I get. Also, because Citrine has a gold sheen, it will be the most universally flattering across a variety of skintones compared to the others in the line. All in all, as my first purchase from Jouer, it has impressed me so much so that I cannot wait to find more high quality items from this brand.

Makeup Deets ♥ Brows - NYX Micro Brow Pencil in Taupe & Milani Brow Fix Brow Kit in Light
♥ Eyeshadow - Makeup Geek Eyeshadows in Early Bird & Americano & Make Up For Ever Artist Shadows in M-846, S-102, & ME-512
♥ Glitter - Revlon PhotoReady Eye Art Duo in Dessert Dazzle
♥ Eyeliner - Wet n Wild H2O Proof Liquid Eyeliner
♥ Lashes - Violet Voss Just Slayin Lashes
♥ Foundation - Fiona Stiles Matte Finish Foundation Concentrate in shade 3
♥ Concealer - LA Girl HD Pro Conceal Concealer in Porcelain
♥ Highlight - Jouer Powder Highlighter in Citrine
♥ Bronzer - L'Oreal Glam Bronze in Medium
♥ Blush - Urban Decay After Glow Powder Blush in Indecent
♥ Lips - Milani Amore Matte Lip Creme in Sugar

XO♥

New Lippie Love?: ColourPop Ultra Glossy Lip Review, Swatches, & Demos

I am constantly going through makeup phases where I obsess over a specific kind of product, whether it's foundation or eyeshadow or highlighters (but you guys can probably already tell that when I review 10 eyeshadow palettes back to back to back). Today, however, we're discussing a subject I haven't spoken about on my blog in probably over a year. It's truly crazy to think about the fact that lip gloss used to be a part of my everyday makeup routine. I mean there was absolutely no way you were separating me from my Maybelline Color Elixir in Nude Illusion! And now currently all I wear are liquid lipsticks. Complete polar opposites! So I think it's about that time to revisit an old favorite in a brand new way with ColourPop's Ultra Glossy Lip Collection, a launch that was not only incredibly extensive, but also hyped up to the max.

ColourPop Ultra Glossy Lips Arm Swatches Left To Right: Fairy Floss, A Boo, Lychee Me, Fluff, Tokyo Tea, Wolfie, Fudg'd, & Sookie

ColourPop Ultra Glossy Lips Lip Swatches Left To Right: Fairy Floss, A Boo, Lychee Me, & Fluff

ColourPop Ultra Glossy Lips Lip Swatches Left To Right: Tokyo Tea, Wolfie, Fudg'd, & Sookie

Q&A's

♥What are the ColourPop Ultra Glossy Lips?♥

The ColourPop Ultra Glossy Lips are ColourPop's new and already extensive range of affordable glosses. In total, there are currently 25 shades ranging from nudes to plums and there's even a green one! However, that's not all. There are also three different finishes to choose from--sheer, creme, and metallic. As always, ColourPop is extremely affordable, so these retail for $6 on the ColourPop website, which is the same price as their Ultra Matte Liquid Lipsticks.

♥What are the shade descriptions?♥

Fairy Floss (Sheer) - A pale peachy pink

Lychee Me (Sheer) - Very sheer tan nude

A boo (Sheer) - Light, milky pink

Fluff (Creme) - Grey with blue undertones

Tokyo Tea (Creme) - Bright coral red

Wolfie (Metallic) - Medium plum with a rose gold shimmer

Fudg'd (Sheer) - Warm chocolate brown

Sookie (Creme) - Dark plum

♥How do the glosses apply and wear?♥

While this is an affordable product, there are certain things that I believe are absolutely unacceptable for companies to skimp on. ColourPop's doe foot lip applicator is quite small, rough, and barely picks up any product. This is a huge deal because even if you have a good product, if it takes entirely too much work to apply, the average person will more than likely pass on it. On the other hand, it doesn't seem to affect the creme and metallic formulas too much, except in instances of more precise application, but is definitely a problem when working with the sheer formula because I found myself dipping back into the tube multiple times. Also, there is something about the formula that causes a few of the lip glosses (Fairy Floss, A Boo, and Fluff) to emphasize the lines on my lips that I would have otherwise never known existed. Once on the lips, however, I do want to note that the glosses felt very comfortable--neither oily nor sticky.

♥What are my overall thoughts on this product?♥

Before purchasing, I watched many Youtube videos and read many a blog post before settling on the shades I chose and, to be honest, I had very high expectations for this product that weren't met. There are tons of amazing, affordable glosses on the market, such as the Maybelline Color Elixirs and the NYX Butter Glosses, so I just don't understand a bad gloss. That is not to say all of the glosses were complete fails. In fact, Wolfie and Sookie are absolutely gorgeous shades for Fall and, based on my experience, I would recommend trying out the creme and metallic formulas from their line if you like a more opaque gloss. And just as a side note for those of you nit picky like myself, I noticed that the packaging does not indicate their finish. Overall, I would say this product is okay. I am not wowed by it, but a couple of the colors were breathtaking and made up for some of the other lack luster ones.

XO♥