review

LUSH Kitchen Mini Haul

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This little box o’ happiness
 came sooner than I expected.
A look inside the box.

I recently made a purchase through the Lush UK site.  Even with shipping the products can be cheaper.  Things have changed, so the difference isn’t as good as it used to be, but I digress.  About a week ago I bought a few things, and the parcel arrived exactly 7 days after it was dispatched. I’m not sure if every product is unwrapped when it ships, but everything was this time (except for the soap).  When I have placed orders in the past, products were usually wrapped in a cellulose film with an ingredient list sticker.  I digress…  What’s in the box?  Well, let’s take a look!

The products, unboxed!

1.  Mouthwash Tabs

Two of the three they offered.
More fun little Polaroid cards…
not sure what to do with them.

Both of these mouthwash tabs have menthol in them.  If you aren’t a fan, then I suggest skipping them the next time they are available.  Personally, I love menthol– it opens up my sinuses.  To use them, pop one in your mouth sip some water.  Next, chew it up, just as you would with a toothy tab.  Swish, spit, and you’re ready to go!  These are are less compressed than the toothy tabs, and break up quite fast.  You can also feel them fizz because of the combination of ingredients.  Each bottle contains approximately 75 tabs.  The were a Kitchen item, and I don’t think they’re available anymore.  But, they may bring it back.

  • Creme de Menthe

Green, shimmery, and minty!

These little tabs really pack a punch.  They are very minty because they contain peppermint powder AND peppermint oil.  My mouth was first hit by the saltiness of the baking soda.  Next came the menthol, followed by mint and a hint of sweet.  The cooling effect lasted for about 30 minutes.  I think that is mostly because I didn’t have anything to eat or drink in that time.

  • Pan Galactic Gargle Blaster
Light, shimmery yellow tabs!

This product smells like a lemon & menthol cough drop.  They have a real Asian herbalist quality to them.  Because of the sweetener, there is a definite diet-taste to them.  Initially I was hit by sour/salty flavor, followed by a stinging sensation and that sweet, diet flavor.  It, literally, tastes like a super strong Ricola (save for the diet part).  My mouth felt refreshed thanks to the menthol, but there was a little bit of grit, simply because of the formula.  This tab didn’t foam as much as I expected it to, but I could feel it breaking apart, due to the acids and baking soda reacting with the liquid.  There was also an aftertaste of diet-y sweetness, lemon, and menthol, but it didn’t last more than about 10 minutes for me.

2.  Hairy McClairy Solid Shampoo

I think this looks like a light green, melting Rice Krispy bar.

During Valentine’s there was a product that smelled remarkably similar to this shampoo, mixed with something else that I can’t pinpoint.  Maybe Prince Charming?  Ugh, I can’t remember.  This solid shampoo is supposed to help with testy scalps, and because of the weather, my scalp is really off.  I have been using it every other day.  It does do a thorough job of cleaning my hair, and leaves it conditioned and shiny.  I have noticed that my hair doesn’t get greasy as fast (thanks to an oily scalp), but no other noticeable changes.  Maybe it takes more than a few washes to see the change.

3.  Soap

  • Hippy Cold-Pressed Soap
I think that’s supposed to be a lion in the center…

This is probably one of my least favorite products, scent-wise.  It’s very strong of patchouli, and reminds me of the lumber department at Home Depot.  I have not used it because I actually bought it for a friend.  I’m sure you’re wondering why I would say something negative that I bought for someone else.  Well, she loves patchouli, so I figured it would be the perfect for her.  Sadly, the center doesn’t look like anything recognizable… 

  • Quinquireme of Nineveh
Sam made the soap!

The smell of this milky, white soap reminds me of Trichomania.  It contains coconut, orange and vanilla oils, as well as other nourishing ingredients.  I really want to try this on my hair to see how it works out.  I liked the little Polaroid card with the photo of who made the soap (Sam).  

4.  Solid Conditioners

I have tried the U.S versions of these two solid conditioners, and wanted to see if the formula was any different.  I have purchased Ocean Salt from the U.S. and U.K. stores, and both were different.  The U.K. version had more salt and was a different color.  One thing I have noticed with the solid conditioners is that I really only notice its effectiveness after my hair is completely dry.  The same hold for the Avocado Co-Wash (read more about that here).

  • Sugar Daddy-O
Goes great with the Daddy-O shampoo.
This bar matches the shampoo in color (minus the shimmer) and fragrance.  It is supposed to be more for blondes as it helps to rid tame brassy tones.  The shampoo was great for my hair (brown w/gold & red tones) as it kept it shiny and beautiful.  I have yet to try this conditioner, but I hope it works as well as the U.S. one.   
  • The Plumps

Got about ½ as much as the Daddy-O . *sad*

I have been using this for the past three days, and I have not noticed a difference (yet).  The scent is really indescribable;  earthy/herbal with a sweet finish is the best I can describe it.  The scent does not linger in my hair.  While my hair feels conditioned, it is NOT more voluminous.  Also, if you’re thinking that the bar will look like the picture, it doesn’t as far as the color is concerned.  It is a much deeper pink.  Do you remember the Easter LifeSavers?  The pink one was cotton candy, and that’s what the photo reminded me of.

5.  Samples

Thank you so much to
whoever provided all of these!

In the comments box, I asked to sample the new toothy tabs, since we don’t have them in the U.S. yet.      They were kind enough to send me samples of ALL of the tooth products!  Obviously I have not tried them yet, but as I do, I will provide updates.  I think it’s interesting that they have left the Toothy Tabs in their pre-pressed, powder form, and have pressed nearly all of the new flavors.

  • Limelight
Image courtesy of lush.co.uk

  • BOOM!
Image courtesy of lush.co.uk

  • Oral Pleasure
Image courtesy of lush.co.uk

  • Atomic (powder)
Image courtesy of lush.co.uk

  • Ultrablast (powder)
Image courtesy of lush.co.uk

  • BLING!
    BLING! tabs are covered in a light gold shimmer powder.
Between the old tabs and this one, I have to say this is one of my least favorites.  I was excited because I love orange, well anything citrusy really.  I should have realized, though, that the guarana  powder and frankincense oil would overpower the flavor.  I do like the tab easily broke apart when I chewed it, unlike the old ones.  The old tabs would leave me spitting out big chunks of product no matter how much I chewed them.
  • Miles of Smiles
Image courtesy of lush.co.uk

  • Tooth Fairy (powder)
Not the best photo.  You can’t see the sparkles, but they’re there.

Have you used any of the new LUSH products?  Let me know if you have a new favorite, or what you’d like to try.

Stay beautiful!

Razer Blade Stealth

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In case you didn’t know, I L-O-V-E Razer.  They make wonderful, efficient gaming gear among other products.  I have pretty much everything Chroma.  Is it necessary?  No, but it’s aesthetically pleasing; plus, there are millions of color options.  Who doesn’t love customization?  When the Razer Blade Stealth was unveiled at CES, it won a “Best of CES; Best PC” award.  They then made history, as Razer won their sixth consecutive “Best of CES” award.  I am so proud to know the people behind the brand.  

Image courtesy of razerzone.com
Image courtesy of razerzone.com
The Stealth currently on sale, which varies in price (i.e. $1,599.99 reduced to $1,449.99 for 512GB, UHD).  Side note:  If you have the student discount, save it.  The current sale price is a better option.  You also get FL Studio 12 included with your purchase.  I was fortunate enough to get one, and all I can say is, “WOW!”  The picture clarity is amazing– minute details I never knew were there are visible.  It weighs in at 2.75 pounds compared to the MacBook Air, which weighs 2.38 pounds.  Currently there is no hardshell case for it, but some companies offer skins.  The one brand with the highest reviews is dbrand.  They have some fun customization options, and can be re-adjusted.  I wish it had come with a sleeve or something to protect it, even though most laptops/ultrabooks do not.     
This ultrabook is incredible!  The touchscreen is very receptive.  I need to get a screen protector; don’t know about you, but fingerprints on the screen drives me nuts.  The backlighting on the keys can be adjusted, and there are millions of combinations to make it your own.  You can customize profiles to fit your wants.  I have a profile for WoW, which only lights up keys used for MMORPGs (there are various gaming settings).  I also have one for daily use, which is spectrum cycling, that cycles through all different colors.  There is also a breathing option, where the colors pulsate.  Options that I haven’t listed are noted here.  My desktop setup has the colors sync together (keyboard, mouse, headphones, mousepad). 
The downside to the Stealth is that it does heat up quite fast.  If you have it on your lap, it might burn your legs.  I always use a stand (it came with a fan), so it’s not an issue for me.  I highly recommend getting one if you decide to purchase this.  I also read that the battery life is not the greatest (unplugged), but I generally always have my laptops plugged in.  Fingerprints definitely show on the outer parts of the ultrabook, which isn’t pretty, but that’s why they have skins.  Should you decide to purchase the Stealth (especially if you’re a gamer), I recommend getting the 512GB, since space is limited already, and the last thing you want is a computer without space.  The first thing I installed was WoW, and it actually plays even without the Razer Core.  In case you were wondering, I did not purchase the Core simply because of the price.  As much as I love Razer, it seems as though they are starting to price themselves out.      
Pros:
  • Visual quality/clarity
  • Gaming capabilities
  • Chroma (not necessary, but it’s beautiful!)
  • Speaker quality/clarity
  • Small power brick (fabric-covered cord)
  • Lightweight
  • Travel-friendly 
  • HDMI port
  • 2 USB ports
Cons:
  • Can overheat fast
  • Battery life is low
  • Generally does not play high-end games without the Core
I’m sure there are more cons, but overall this has been one of my favorite products.  I have only had it for a couple of days, so after more use I will update this post.
Do you have the Stealth or a Razer system?  What are your thoughts?

LUSH: New Avocado Co-Wash & Queen Bee *Updated*

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LUSH Cosmetics recently launched new hair care.  There are more solid conditioners to choose from, as well as a new solid shampoo and a solid leave-in conditioner.  When I was last in the shop I purchased a piece of Avocado Co-Wash (3.5oz/$15.95) and Queen Bee (3.5oz/$16.95).  The shampoo is quite soft and pliable– much like the old version of Big Conditioner.  You can either pinch a small piece off ands it, or use a whole chunk.  I find that using a larger piece is far easier.  It has a sweet, fruity (almost like Froot Loops or Trix), vinegar smell, but the smell once it is rinsed out is light and slightly sweet.  My hair was left soft, hydrated (not oily), and shiny.  I will definitely repurchase this.  Since it’s in the shower and contains a lot of oils/butters, it might melt.  It may also not last as long because of the same reason.  I suggest keeping it in a container and pinching off a small portion.  Lather it up in your hands and apply.  It does not lather like their other solid & liquid shampoos.  I used more than I needed to because I was looking for that signature shampoo lather.  Oh, remember to remove the red wax (there is also wax on the outside of Queen Bee), otherwise it will just break apart and fall down the drain.

Avocado Co-Wash (wax removed).

I used Queen Bee after the gym:  shampooed, rinsed, and rubbed the bar over my hair.  I love that it is a leave-in, and being a solid means more room in my liquids bag when I travel.  The scent is similar to a fake almond with other medicinal, floral, and sweet notes.  It’s hard to describe, and while it’s not my favorite, it’s not the worst scent.  Make sure to remove all of the wax, otherwise you’ll have bits in your hair.  This is one product I will not purchase again.  It left my hair very oily, and I had the same results as when I just used coconut oil.  If you are going for a “wet hair” look, this will definitely give that.  

For easier use, pinch off a small amount, let it melt (it melts pretty quickly), and rub it through my hair.  Since my scalp gets quite oily, I only apply leave-in conditioners from about the base of my skull, down.  The same applies to conditioners that rinse out.

**I tried using the product as a balm, and it did help with the little fly-aways, but it’s still not my favorite.  I prefer a pomade or flexible mousse.**

Queen Bee.
My hair is completely dry,
but the oils  make it look wet.

As you can see, there are tons of oils and butters in the products.  My fingertips are shiny, and I only held the bars for a few seconds to take the pictures, and film one small clip to show how soft the shampoo is.  I filmed twice, and neither saved.

So shiny!
Have you tried any of the new hair product line?  Let me know what your hits & misses are.
Stay beautiful!

Valentia: Skin Detoxifying Mask

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Face masks are a wonderful addition to any skincare routine.  I love to use them when I’m winding down for the night.  I was able to try out Valentia’s new Skin Detoxifying Mask, and I LOVE it!  My skin is not sensitive, and is combination (oily T-zone, and dry around the hairline).  This vegan mask
contains kaolin clay, CoQ10, and other skin-loving ingredients.  After a nice hot shower I put my hair up in my knockoff Turbie Twist, changed into my nighttime wear, and used a brush to paint on the face mask.  First things first, though:  mixing.  The mask had separated a little bit, so I used a Q-Tip to mix it up.

The product after I mixed it.

Sorry for the ultra-bright flash!  Anyway, you
can see how the product separated.

I applied a thin layer with an old foundation brush, and noticed right away that it had a cooling/tingling effect.  The cooling effect was soothing after the hot water from the shower.  It has a fruity, medicinal scent, so if you are sensitive to smells, you may want to test a small area first, or try one of their less fragrant masks.  Also, if you have sensitive skin, be sure to test a SMALL area first.  That way, if your skin react to it, you will only have a small area that is affected.  The tub says to leave the product on for 15-20 minutes, or until the product has dried.  As the mask dried I could feel tightening against my skin, but it wasn’t uncomfortable.  I love that it didn’t flake off as bad as other clay masks I’ve used in the past.

After the mask dried I rinsed it off with warm water, and my face felt smooth and clean.  Most of the time clay-based masks feel like they’ve left a film on my skin, so I end up washing it after.  Maybe it is due to the plant fibers that are in the product (it worked as a very light exfoliant), but my skin felt like I had washed it with my usual cleanser.  While my skin didn’t feel dry, it wasn’t overly hydrated either.  I followed the mask with my normal toner and moisturizer.

Since then, I have used it weekly, and have noticed that my skin’s texture, tone, and pores have greatly improved.  While nothing can get rid of enlarged pores (thank you, genetics), this mask has improved their appearance.  One of the best uses, for me, was after a day at the Renaissance Pleasure Faire.  For those who haven’t been, there is a lot of walking in dirt– at least at the faires I’ve been to.  You get covered in a layer of dust and dirt regardless of what you are wearing, and you skin really takes a beating.  I followed the routine I mentioned above after a day of faire, and my face felt so clean and detoxified.  It was like going to a spa, but without the hefty price tag.  I can’t wait to see the results of long-time use.

You can find out more about Valentia and their products on Facebook and Instagram.  

Stay beautiful!

**I received this product in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.  Powered by BrandBacker.**  //www.brandbacker.com/trk/bb_clk_trk.js

#MAKEYourself with MAKE Beauty

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MAKE Beauty creates professionally formulated skincare and makeup that are user-friendly and “designed for personal experimentation.”  You may be wondering what that means.  That means you are able to customize your look and tailor every product to your specific needs.  You can go from barely-there to super-pigmented in just a couple of steps.  Blend, layer, and play to your heart’s content.  Their makeup formulas contain high-quality pigments that can be toned down or cranked up, depending on your mood.  Want a no-makeup look?  No problem!  Headed out for a fun night on the town and want a bold, super-pigmented look?  MAKE has all you will need.

I was sent a mini eye shadow & mini lipstick to try out (see my Instagram post here), and I must say that I love both of them.  The eyeshadow is a wonderfully neutral color that looks great by itself or blended with other colors.  Taffy is the color of the lipstick I received.  I love that it doesn’t dry my lips out.  Sometimes, depending on the brand (and it can be drugstore or the pricey kind) my lips will crack and dry up in no-time.  MAKE’s did not do that.  Currently we are overseas, so I decided to take these with me, especially since they didn’t take up much space.

Anyway, celebrate and show off your own creative skills with MAKE’s expertly- designed products.  I am sure you will not be disappointed.  Each product is packed with ingredients that are good for you, such as antioxidants, safflower oil, and chamomile extracts are just a few.

PROMOTIONAL OFFER:  Use the code MAKEYOURSELF to receive 20% off your purchase (site-wide, valid through 5/31/2016)!!

Stay beautiful!
**I received this product in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.  Powered by BrandBacker.**

Valentia: Clear Lift Revitalizing Serum

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Image courtesy of Valentia.com
Valentia’s Lifting Serum is a lightweight, fast-absorbing cream that contains:  Seaweed extract, lactic acid, and argan oil.  Those are just some of the ingredients that help to make skin look its best.   I have been using this product for approximately 37 days, and have noticed a change in the texture and firmness of my skin.  My face feels slightly lifted, so I am hoping that continued use will yield even better outcomes.  You don’t need a lot during application.  I like to apply one pump after cleansing and toning during the day and night.  I pat it on my face, leave it for a minute, and then rub it in using circular motions.  This travel-friendly product fits easily into the quart-sized bag for carry-on liquids, and the glass bottle can be reused to house favorite (Valentia) skincare.  Follow them on Instagram and Facebook.  Try out their skincare, take a photo, and don’t forget to tag them.   

Stay beautiful!



**I received this product in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.  Powered by BrandBacker.**

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Valentia: Royal Rose Hydrating Serum

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Image courtesy of valentia.com


Valentia has some pretty effective products that are made in the USA and are also vegan friendly.  Their Royal Rose Hydrating Serum is one of them.  It is a lightweight, lightly-fragranced serum that delivers soothing hydration to skin.  I have been using this product day and night for the past 30 days, and am quite pleased with the results.  One pump is all my face needs.  After cleansing and toning I applied one pump of the serum, patted it all over my face, then rubbed it in.  The formula is fast-absorbing and virtually weightless.  I noticed a hint of rose scent, but that quickly dissipated.  Damask rose essential oil is one of the ingredients in the serum, which is known for its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties.  Vitamin B, which reduces sunspots and hyper-pigmentation, is also included, as well as primrose oil for moisture along with its other quality ingredients.  Within the second week I noticed an improvement in the texture of my skin.  My skin was also smoother and was less irritated by the last two weeks of my 30-day trial.  Yes, I still use it, but I always like to devote at least 30 days to a product in order to see if it takes effect.  Since certain areas of my face are drier than others, I still had to follow up with my usual night/day cream.  I should mention that the serum is not overly hydrating, so if you have really dry skin, you may need something more potent (or you could layer).  If you are into products with reusable packaging, this item is perfect because it comes in a glass bottle that you can refill with the product of your choice.  Just make sure to label it properly.

Stay beautiful!

**I received this product in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.  Powered by BrandBacker.** //www.brandbacker.com/trk/bb_clk_trk.js

Valentia: True Glow Eye Cream & Ultra Plumping Hydration Mask

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Image courtesy of valentia.com
Image courtesy of valentia.com

I have been using Valentia’s True Glow Eye Cream twice a day, and their Plumping Hydration Mask once a week for the past 30 days.

Sorry for the flash! 
A close-up of the product.

We will start with the hydration mask first.  I am a sucker for a good mask.  There are so many on the market that promise dramatic results, but don’t really deliver on their promises.  I used the plumping hydration mask once a week after my normal cleansing routine.  Texturally the mask is a bit like a pudding/jelly hybrid.  It goes on cool and smells a bit sweet (fruity & floral) and medicinal.  For those who are more sensitive to scents, this may be a bit overpowering.  I left the mask on for 15 minutes, and then rinsed it off with warm water.  My skin felt tighter and was more hydrated after the first use, which was much needed.  The weather since December has been so inconsistent that it’s doing a number to my skin.  I followed up with Valentia’s eye cream, rose serum, another moisturizer (if my skin needed it), and an SPF when I applied the mask in the day.  Since the first use, I have noticed that my skin looks much more “alive” as well as an improvement in its tone.  I have a couple of scars that have lightened up, though I’m not 100% sure if that is due to the mask or not.  At any rate, the mask is a wonderful addition to a night (or day) of relaxation.

The skin around your eyes is very delicate.  It needs to be treated well, and I wish I had started a regimen before.  When I was younger I didn’t care so much about skincare, but these days that decision is catching up with me.  Valentia’s eye cream is a lightweight, non-greasy cream that absorbs fast.  It contains rosehip oil, Vitamin C, and other powerful ingredients that all work together to help brighten the eye area.  I have been using it night and day, and while the dark circles have only slightly improved, the rest of the area feels nourished and less puffy.  The product smells of orange blossom, but is not strong by any means.  At first it was difficult to control the pump.  Product would come flying out of the bottle– the first time it was quite unexpected.  When it happened again, I figured out that I had to press the side of the pump with my thumb to help control the outcome.  It might be better to have the eye cream in a tube.

Have you tried Valentia?  I’d love to know your thoughts.

Stay beautiful!

**I received this product in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.  Powered by BrandBacker.**
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OZ Naturals: Super Youth Eye Gel

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OZ Naturals has some pretty effective products that won’t “break the bank”.  I had a chance to test and review their Super Youth Eye Gel.  It is vegan, cruelty-free, and great for all skin types.  The pump allows to you get as much (or as little) product as you need.  At first I was taken aback because it has an oceanic smell to it.  That is due to the kelp and algae extracts in the product.  The eye gel also contains plant stem cells, peptides, and acid blends.  

The gel is opaque,
fast-absorbing, and non-sticky.
The pump allows for
controlled dispensing.

It can take 30 days or longer before results being to really show, so I applied the product day & night for one month.  After my cleansing routine I applied a small amount under each eye and used a dabbing motion to make sure it sunk in.  The product absorbs quickly and stays matte.  I have dark circles under my eyes, so I was excited to finally try out something to help combat them.  Unfortunately, I did not see the results I was hoping for.  The dark circles faded slightly, but not near as much as I had anticipated them to.  There really hasn’t been any cream, gel, or balm that has been very effective.  Dark circles aside, the skin around my eye area has improved.  It is firmer and the puffiness has decreased considerably.  I would recommend you give this product a try.  It may work differently for you than it did for me.     

I have tried other products from this brand, and I really like the cleanser.  I use it with my Clarisonic, and my skin is always clean, refreshed, and smooth.

**I received this product in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.  Powered by BrandBacker.**

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YSL Touche Eclat Neutralizer

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A friend of mine introduced my to YSL’s Touche Eclat complexion highlighter years ago, and I was instantly a fan.  The product is a splurge at $42.00 a pop, but works extremely well.  YSL recently released a line of color neutralizers in violet, green, and bisque ($38.00/each).

Image courtesy of sephora.com
Image courtesy of sephora.com

Image courtesy of sephora.com

I received a neutralizer in green, courtesy of Influenster, to try out.  The creamy, unscented formula is not sticky and will stay put all day.  It is also matte, so no extra oiliness, and it is very lightweight.  A little goes a long way, and my under eye circles and redness nearly disappeared.  You can see how well the product mutes out my skin tone, so imagine that on problem areas.     

Sorry for the fingerprints!
I kept cleaning the package, and still…
The tube out of the package.

Click the button at the bottom
to dispense the product.  Be careful!
It’ll come out fast.
That small amount (see photo
above) on the side of my hand.
How much that amount covered, without
really blending.

 

To dispense the product, click the bottom button of the pen until the desired amount of product comes through the brush.  The pen makes a loud clicking sound, so don’t be alarmed.  You can apply it with the brush, but it might leave brush marks.  I recommend that the product be blended.  To do so, I use either my fingertips or a damp BeautyBlender or micro BeautyBlender.  This product helped to provide the perfect foundation for the rest of my makeup.  Clients tend to love it as well, but it is a pricey item to have in your kit.  Other brands with similar products include, but are not limited to, the following:  Smashbox,  Cover Fx, and NYX.  Since I haven’t tested them out, I can’t say whether or not they work just as well, but they are a few options if you can’t get a hold of YSL.

Stay beautiful!