makeup

Makeup Monday: Versatility with MAC Fluidline

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Fluidline in Silverstroke. Image courtesy of maccosmetics.com

I have loved MAC‘s Fluidline since it was launched.  My first purchase was Blacktrack, which is (of course) flat black.  At first, I only used Fluidline as a a liner.  It has amazingly long staying power, and doesn’t transfer to my eyelids.  A little goes a really long way.  Normally, I apply it with the 231 brush or Billy B’s brush eleven because it is more dense and rigid.  It really all depends on the look I am going for.  Just run the tip of the brush through the Fluidline (it has a gel liner consistency)–you don’t need to use too much– then apply it as you would any other eyeliner. 

Image courtesy of maccosmetics.com
Image courtesy of billybbeauty.com

I got to thinking about it.  I am always looking for makeup that has multiple uses.  For instance, some shadows make great highlighters, and some blush hues work great on lips.  Of course, you have to make sure that the color(s) is/are safe for all areas.  I digress.  I decided to try out Fluidline as an eye base, so I purchased one of the lighter colors.  Normally, I use Too Faced or Urban Decay primers, but I figured that Fluidline had such staying power that it would probably work.  Just a little Fluidline applied to the eyelids is all it takes.  Wait just a minute, then apply your shadow as usual.  I would avoid applying any shadow right away because it may clump up, and who needs that?!  Anyway, Fluidline will ensure that your work of art stays put through it all.  You can also use any color just on the eyelid for a more subtle look.  Even though it is not necessarily cost-effective, Fluidline also works great when accenting body paint. 

Do you have a favorite versatile beauty product?

Stay beautiful!

Subscription Box Sunday

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I have been thinking about doing a subscription box piece over the weekend, so here we are.

Sorry the photo is a bit wonky!  These were the items in my Birichbox this month.  Oops!  I forgot to include the hair mask packet.
This is my fourth Birchbox, and so far I have been really pleased.  There is always a variety.  In this box, there was a lip crayon by mirenesse, small sample of eye cream by Supergoop!, small sample of No. 4 clarifying shampoo, small sample of No. 4 hair mask (not pictured), Cargo blush, and travel-sized Oscar Blandi mousse.  Unfortunately, the shampoo’s cap had come unscrewed, and leaked everywhere. The shampoo got all over the other products, and was partially absorbed into the box & wrapping tissue.  Each box is $10.00, though it is cheaper if you subscribe for multiple boxes at a time.  Shipping is included, which a nice.  At first, I was unsure if the price would be worth it; so far, it has.  I also tried out the men’s box.  it is double the price, but given the price of the goods inside, it’s no wonder.  I would recommend both to try.  With all of the options, who knows what will end up being your next favorite product!

This is the shampoo I will not get to try, since it leaked out.  This was taken after I closed the lid.
I am looking forward to reviewing these products, and seeing what the latest Birchbox brings.  On a side note, I have also had excellent experiences with their online shop.  There are some great deals, discounts (sometimes), and freebies.  You can also gift the men’s and women’s boxes!
Here are some photos of the Birchboxes I have received in the past:

Sorry this is tilted!  It was one of the men’s boxes.

  

Makeup Monday: Benefit’s They’re Real Mascara and Eyeliner

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they’re Real Mascara

Image courtesy of benefitcosmetics.com

While everyone is drooling over Roller Lash, I am still obsessed with Benefit’s they’re Real mascara (and eyeliner).  I always apply mascara after I have curled my lashes.  Even those claiming to curl on their own never seem to do a good enough job.  When I see the majority of mascara applications, most apply it at the base and simply move the want up towards the tips.  Others work the wand back and forth, but few apply it in a rotating motion.  Working from the base, take the wand and rotate it outward.  It is the same motion that is described in the “how-to” section for Roller Lash.  The rotating motion will allow a more even distribution of the mascara while simultaneously minimizing clumping.  You can work the wand back and forth while you rotate as well.  After I apply mascara, I use a heated eyelash curler to give some extra lift.  I don’t know about you, but my lashed tend to fall regardless.  This mascara provides a lot of volume, and if applied properly, can almost give the effect of false lashes.  Since Imju Fiberwig was discontinued, this is the next best thing.  The only thing I wish was for this to be in different colors.  While many people can wear black mascara others look better with something less harsh, like a black-brown or brown. 

they’re Real Push-Up Eyeliner

Image courtesy of benefitcosmetics.com

 A great pair to the mascara is the they’re Real push-up eyeliner.  It is quite an odd thing at first glance.  The tip feels like rubber and the gel twists up onto it.  Because of the design, the eyeliner can be used to create a myriad of looks.  The liner comes up much like a soft solid deodorant.  In order to get it even, you have to twist up the gel, then wipe it off to make sure it will come out evenly.  When I apply my eyeliner, I make sure to get the applicator as close to the base of my lashes as possible.  Sometimes, when my lashes are unruly, I will hold them down with my index finger then swipe the pen across and curl my lashes after.  Other times, I lift the skin at my brow (as it is shown below).  The gel does not dry all that quickly, so you may have to wait a bit before curling your eyelashes.  If you don’t wait, you make take off or smudge your look.  It says that the gel can last 24 hours; I did not find that to be the case, but it did last over 8 hours.  

This tutorial for a wing look was provided by Benefit:

Image courtesy of benefitcosmetics.com

Overall Impression

I really love this duo.  They are great on their own and create an even more dramatic look when used together.  The mascara adds great volume, some length, and doesn’t need to be applied with more than two coats.  The gel liner provides a great accent, and the tip allows you to be creative.  There is no need for heavy eyeshadow (or eyeshadow at all) depending on how dramatic your look is.  The eyeliner is said to last up to 24 hours and is waterproof.  I, personally, found that after a few hours the mascara (like many) did fall and the liner was not altogether waterproof.  You may also find that the liner transfers up to your eyelid depending on the shape of your eyes and your eyelid type.  That being said, they are two of my favorites and are always in my bag.  To ensure that my look stays put all day, I use Model in a Bottle setting spray.    

Image courtesy of benefitcosmetics.com