Makeup: Project 10 Pan--A Second Update!

It has been forever since I wrote a post here! Things have been hectic since I am counting down the days until I graduate from grad school! Nevertheless, here is an update of my project 10 pan. That is, here's what I finished since my last update:

1. MAC Pro-Long Wear Concealer in NC35: Since my last update, I finished the entire bottle. I mean, I totally scraped it to the last drop of concealer. Ah, I love it so much! But, the budget is SUPER tight right now. 

2. Maybelline Instant Age-Rewind Concealer in Medium: I have annihilated this concealer! I enjoyed this concealer, and I would repurchase it. However, I'm currently trying to get through the rest of my concealer collection (hmm...that may be an idea for a future post).

This is so sad! I've only finished 4 out of 10 the products in my project 10! I'll have to really try to use all of them as much as I can. I'm hoping to finish my Revlon Lipstick in Rose Velvet soon. I was motivated to use it because Tati from GlamLifeGuru posted a snap of it, and she stated that she loved it! 

Stay tuned for my next post,

Aly

Review: Ulta Double Duty Wet & Dry Pressed Powder Foundation

I'm surprised that there are not enough reviews on Ulta products. Here's a review on the Ulta Double Duty Wet & Dry Pressed Powder Foundation in Warm. Per usual, this review will broken down as follows:

1. Description
2. Claims
3. Application
4. First Application
5. Effectiveness

1. Description: This is a creamy powder in a simple black compact. It has a half-moon shaped mirror and it has a sponge separated from beneath the powder. It has 9g/0.3 oz worth of products and sells for $12.50 at Ulta (above is a direct link for the product). Its top 5 main ingredients are: talc, mica, silica, dimethicone, and nylon-12. This may be an issue for those with sensitive skin as talc can clog pores. Nevertheless, I did not get any breakouts from this (mind you, I have acne prone skin). I also appreciate the fact that this product caters to pink, yellow, and neutral undertones. As you can see, mine is in the shade Warm. It is appropriate for my summer, tanned shade. This suited me when I was more NC40.

2. Claims: According to Ulta: 

ULTA's Active Wear Wet & Dry Pressed Powder Foundation is a creamy, moisturizing formula that provides a flawless, luminous finish. The formula glides effortlessly onto the skin; skin feels smooth and comfortable on application. An innovative blend of ingredients ensures the powder adheres to the skin for a look that last and last. Use the formula wet or dry for adjustable coverage. Go on, take it to the test!

• Creamy, moisturizing formula.
• Luminous finish.
• Long wear.
• Adjustable coverage.
• Can be used wet or dry.
• Reduces the appearance of fine lines and imperfections.
• Suitable for all skin types.

3. Application: Although Ulta states that this can be used wet or dry, I prefer using my powder dry. I used a flat top kabuki brush for the product. 

4. First Application: For my first application, I used this as my foundation over the Maybelline Age Rewind concealer in medium. I was surprised at its light to medium coverage. However, it is no MAC Studio Fix powder foundation (my HG powder foundation FOR LIFE). As for performance during my first time wearing this, it did pretty well. It was ridiculously powdery, but that's a given because it is a powder. It lasted for 6 hours on a hot, humid summer day in Houston. It also lasted on my oily skin. I reapplied once, and that did the job. (Note: I often use a setting spray after putting on makeup. I used the NYX Matte finishing spray during this time).

5. Effectiveness: I've been using this powder foundation for almost a month. I have already hit pan! But, that is most likely because I needed to use a lot of it for full coverage. Also, when this is used as a finishing powder on top of foundation (e.g., L'Oreal Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation), it tends to get cakey. Does it control for oil? Eh...it's okay. It does its best on a hot, humid summer day with some help from a mattifying/prolonging finishing spray (e.g., NYX Matte finishing spray). Currently, I have stopped using this because my tan is already fading. Nevertheless, this is a good, affordable powder foundation. Although this is not comparable to the MAC Studio Fix Powder Foundation, this is a good alternative if you're trying to save money. Give it a try! If you're ever in my dilemma in which your powder is too dark for you, use it as a bronzer or as a contour powder. I'll be using this powder as a bronzer once I'm done with my NYC Sunny Bronzer (see this post for the reason why: Project 10 Pan!)

Hope ya'll enjoyed!

Aly

Makeup: Project 10 Pan--An Update

...guys, this is harder than it sounds. Below are an update on three products from my project 10 pan:

1. Rimmel Stay Matte Powder in Translucent: I'm going to be honest here...the last bit of this broke during a wedding reception I attended last night. But, it's time to move on to better things...i.e., the Coty Airspun (I'll most likely make a review for that sometime soon!

GONE.

2. Covergirl Super Sizer Mascara in Very Black (Waterproof): I really, really, REALLY loved this mascara. It kept the curl in my lashes and did not budge during the summer. It also made the Too Face Better than Sex Mascara perform better. 

Probably my second most favorite drugstore mascara

3. MAC Pro-Long Wear Concealer in NC35: I was about to give up on this product because I couldn't get the last bit out. But, I figured I could just remove the top. I used a pair of tweezers to take it off. I just wanted to share that info, but I haven't finished this product yet. I do remember how much I love this concealer though! Definitely worth every penny! After I finish up all my concealers, I'll be going back to this one.

Is this little bit another month's worth of use?

Until next time,

Aly

Makeup: Project 10 Pan!

Inspired by the lovely Melissa Autry from YouTube, I decided to also take on the Project 10 Pan challenge! The goal here is to use my current make up while saving money. Below is a picture of the 10 makeup products I have and descriptors for each item (left to right):

(Yes, this picture is such crap! But...okay, there are no excuses.)

1. NYC Bronzer in Sunny: I have already hit pan with this product, but my goal is to completely finish this bronzer as my very first one broke (yes, this stuff lasts FOREVER). 
2. L'Oreal Infallible Pro-Matte 24hr Foundation in 104 (golden beige) and 106 (sun beige): I am currently between these two shades which have a yellow undertone. For reference, I am within this shade range NC40-NC35. 
3. Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Rose Velvet: I've had this for two years. I have got to finish this up! It's a nice dusty, tea-rose shade for everyday.
4. Estee Lauder Lipgloss in Electric Ginger (shimmer): Again, I've had this for two years and this needs to be finished! It's shimmery lipgloss that is slightly peachy (closer to clear if you ask me! What a stupid buy...)
5. Maybelline Instant Age-Rewind Concealer in Medium: Almost...done...!
6. MAC Pro-long wear concealer in NC35: Seriously, I have a little bit of this left. But, it is really hanging in there!
7. Minted Rose Lip Balm - Rosebud Perfume Co: I love this stuff, but seriously, SO MUCH PRODUCT in this thing! Also, this tin is so difficult to open! I literally have to leave it half open.
8. NYX Slide on Glide on in Black: I already have a back up of this, but dang! This stuff takes forever to finish up!
9. Rimmel Stay Matte Powder in Translucent: As you can see from the huge dent I've made on this product, that I like this powder. However, I want to finish this because I am excited to try the Coty Airspun!
10. Covergirl Super Sizer Mascara (Waterproof): I think I'm almost done with this mascara. It is getting to that point where it is too dry, which is sad because this + the Too Face Better than Sex mascara = amazing.

That's all for now! No buying new makeup until I am finished with these products. But, I did buy two new products from the Ulta line the other day. Eep! I promise, that is the last time I will buy products. Once I complete this challenge, I am treating myself to this cool looking product: 

From Ulta.com--click for details!

Makeup: August Favorites 2015

I feel like I just posted my July favorites not too long ago! It's been a busy month and my last semester of graduate school is coming to a close. I'm pretty excited, nervous, and, did I mention, excited?! Below is a list of my favorite products this month. Enjoy!

1. Maybelline Color Sensational Creamy Matte Lip Color in Touch of Spice & Clay Crush: Oh. My. Gherd. These are my absolute favorite lipsticks this month. I cannot stop wearing them! They are creamy and non-drying when worn on the lips. They last pretty well, but are not food-proof. I usually wear Touch of Spice when I'm going out, and I wear Clay Crush for everyday. Both colors compliment my current NC40 skin tone--mad love for these two lippies!

2. MAC Matte Lipstick in Persistence: To reward myself for finishing my last summer class ever (maybe, I'm not sure), I purchased my FIRST MAC lipstick. I love this color! It's totally fall appropriate and comfortable on the lips. To tell you the truth, however, I prefer the Maybelline matte lipsticks ;) but if you're feeling particularly spend-y, this Kylie-Jenner-lip color is worth it.

3. Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara + Covergirl the Super Sizer Mascara (Waterproof): This combination is amazing together. I love the effect of the Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara. It truly does give a volumized look. However, it smudges! It is not Houston-humidity approved. Sigh. I was pretty disappointed. To solve this problem, I topped it off with the Super Sizer--PROBLEM SOLVED! Not only that, but it serves to separate my lashes! It' a win!

4. MAC Select Cover Up Concealer in NC40: I'm not particularly fond of this concealer, but it is my correct shade.I squeeze a bit of this to mix with my tinted moisturizers. It offers a little bit more coverage, and it corrects the shade. For a lighter coverage, I mix this with my favorite sunscreen, Aveeno Natural Protection.

5. TheFaceShop Sheet Masks in Sebum Control, Red Ginseng, & Rice: These are my most favorite masks of the moment, and I use them once a week. The sebum control mask is very refreshing and leaves the face cool , the red ginseng wakes up the face, and the rice mask brightens. Moreover, it's cheap! Thankfully, there is a FaceShop boutique in Houston! If you guys don't have a store nearby, I have placed a link above.

For my next post, I'll be positing my everyday look (school/work/internship look!). Keep a look out!

Best,
Aly

Makeup: July Favorites 2015

This list is going to be a bunch of oldies but goodies. I used these during my Caribbean cruise. They were travel friendly, quick, and easy for a more natural look:

1. MAC Studio Fix Powder in NC40: On most days, I lightly dusted this all over my face for some coverage. On formal nights, I also used this for fuller coverage. It took less than 2 minutes! Though, I'm sad to say that someone at work stole my Studio Fix powder :'( like seriously, who the hell does that?! I was so determined to finish it since I've already hit major pan on it. I'll have to wait until November or December to get a new one in the shade NC35.

2. Maybelline The Super Sizer Mascara (Waterproof): I only wore this during formal nights. It's the only thing I needed for eye make up.

3. MAC Pro-Long Wear Concealer in NC35: Again, I only used this during formal nights. I used this to spot conceal and to cover up any dark circles under my eyes.

4. Revlon ColorBurst Balm Stain in Honey: Used this everyday! It's quick, easy, and gives a natural looking stain on the lips. Must have for all the on-the-go girls out there!

5. NYX Matte Finish Makeup Setting Spray: What can I say? It helped prolong the wear of the Studio Fix. It's pretty great.

All the links for these items can be found in my past blog posts :)

Makeup: June Favorites 2015

Woah! This is a ridiculously delayed favorites, and that's because I've been gone on a vacation. My family and I went on a cruise, and it was amazing! I highly recommend visiting the Chichen Itza Ruins in Mexico, the Lamanai Ruins in Belize, and Roatan, Honduras (the whole island!)

Without further ado, let's get to the favorites:

1. CoverGirl The Super Sizer Mascara in Very Black (Waterproof): This stuff is amazing! It lengthens and gives volume, and it has been my favorite throughout the month of July. I love this more than Benefit's They're Real mascara. It's my go-to eye look for the summer! Also, this stuff doesn't budge. I don't use waterproof mascara because it's a pain in the butt to remove. However, I decided to try waterproof for the summer and I'm glad I did! This doesn't smudge at all. 
2. L'Oreal Infallible Pro-Matte 24 Hr Foundation in 106 Sun Beige: I know, I know...I was supposed to make a review on this. But, if it's in my favorites you already know that it's good stuff! The foundation holds up all day, and creates a demi-matte finish. It performs well under humidity and heat (Texas weather approved!) 106 Sun Beige matches my current NC40 skin tone. While 104 Golden Beige matches my winter color of NC30-NC35.
3. Revlon ColorStay Just Bitten Kissable Lip Stain in Honey: It just goes with everything! It stains well, and fades gracefully. Also, it's a little minty upon initial application. Is it just me? I don't mind it, but it caught me by surprise.
4. Clean & Clear Morning Burst Hydrating Gel Moisturizer, Oil Free: A great alternative from Clinique's Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel! It absorbs quickly into the skin, and hydrates the skin fairly well. It's awesome for the summer so far. The only thing I don't like about it is its scent. The cucumber smell is overwhelming that it doesn't smell fresh. Smells like chemically enhanced artificial cucumbers to me *blech*
5. Aveeno Active Naturals Natural Protection SPF 50 Lotion: This works well for oily-acne prone skin! It actually acts as a primer for me, as well. It does have that sunscreen smell, but it fades away quickly. This is also Texas weather approved!

Until next time!

Aly

Getting Fit: Excuses

Retrieved from: Google.come

Does this explain the post? Starting this fitness all over again.

Best,

Aly

Getting Fit: No Carb? No problem!

Retrieved from: Google.com

I will admit it. I love greasy, junk food and I exercise sporadically. This is just no good! I'm 25, and I'm starting feel certain aches and pains in my body. Insert ear piercing scream here. It's time to make changes. I have said this a billion and one times, but this time I have you all as my accountability buddies. What is it that spurred me to this challenge? I'm currently taking Behavioral Medicine, and we usually have a case study in which we have to design a treatment plan. Well, we got a case study on obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. It was a slap-in-the-face-get-your-shit-together wake up call! The sad thing about it was that while we were discussing treatment plan, I was totally craving a BigMac from McDonald's. Ha ha!

Today, a couple of girls and I were discussing diet and exercise. They pretty much challenged me to a week of no carbs for a week. This will be especially difficult for me as carbs make up probably 75% of my diet. But, I have a plan. Because behavioral management such as reinforcement has been proven to increase behavior, I will be implementing one for myself:

1. Make a baseline. For the week of 05/31/15, Sunday, I will be keeping track of my carbohydrate intake. I'll record the following: day/date, time, setting, food/type intake, water intake, and exercise. I will be focusing more on setting and food/type intake for the week.
2. Set a realistic goal for the day. This will depend on how many times I eat carbs on a daily basis. For instance, my goal can be just 1 meal with carbs for the day or 1 type of carbs for the day.
3. Create a schedule. Make a schedule of when and where to eat. That way, the behavior will only occur at a certain place and time. This will help make the behavior into a routine, as well.
4. Find a reinforcement and a buddy. My reinforcement or "reward" for meeting my goal for the day is a makeup item in the "online" shopping cart. Since we all know I'm broke, I'll purchase the makeup from LA Girl (I've been eyeing that concealer for a while now!). I'll ask my man-friend to help me be accountable for my actions. For my negative reinforcement, I will remove use of social media (who can survive?!)

It's  not an exhaustive behavioral plan, but for now, it will do. Note that I will be replacing carbs with protein. You are welcome to join me for this challenge. Let's keep each other motivated!

P.S. This is definitely starting the next day, because I ate Burger King for lunch. Oops, my bad!

Best,

Aly

Makeup: May Favorites 2015

Ah, it's been so long since I posted here! As you all know, I am a graduate student and I was insane enough to take a May Mini Semester on Behavioral Medicine. I have a set schedule for the next week, and I have time to write a quick post (or maybe I'm procrastinating?)

Without further ado, here are my May 2015 favorites:

1. Nyx Cosmetics Matte Finishing Spray: I loved the L'Oreal Infallible Makeup Setting Spray, and it's damn expensive for a drugstore product! Let's be real here, I am a student and I'm borderline broke. I go through the L'Oreal setting spray like nobody's business and $14-$16 a bottle isn't cheap if you do the math! Instead, I opted for the Nyx Matte Finishing Spray this month. To me it's the same product, but in different bottles. The only down side to the Nyx setting spray is the spray itself. Sometimes, it sprays sporadically! But, there's a quick fix to that! Buy a no-name spray bottle in the traveling section of Target and transfer the Nyx setting spray in there. Problem solved. 
2. Rimmel Stay Matte Powder in Translucent: Do I even need to say anything about this? This powder does the job of keeping me matte. Believe me you, this is coming from someone who lives in Texas! I usually apply this as a setting powder for my foundation or tinted moisturizer. Downside? I haven't found any!
3. Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circle Treatment Concealer in Medium: WOW. My fingers got tired typing that! I used to use this concealer a lot after MakeupByTiffany raved about it on YouTube forever ago. I re-purchased it this month and remembered why I loved it--it blended so easily and covered so nicely! I use this for my under eyes as it covers my dark circles (I don't have dark, DARK circles, but I do have some), blends easily, and is not drying for the under eyes. 
4. Nyx Cosmetics Tinted Brow Mascara in Brunette: TIME. SAVER. This brow mascara fills in the areas of my brows that need a little TLC, and all I have to do is swipe 'em on my brows. This is great when you're in a rush! Also, no crunchy brows :)
5. Dickinson's Witch Hazel: Life changer! This has helped with my acne, the overall tone of my skin, and my oiliness! It smells like absolute poo, but I've been using this for months. It has really helped improve my skin! Quick tip: the Dickinson brand is a couple dollars more expensive than the Target brand, Up and Up. However, they are essentially the same! If you're really tight with the budget, make sure you check the generic brand and its ingredients first.

Hope you all enjoyed this quick favorites. What were your favorites for this month? If you have any comments/questions/suggestions, don't forget to leave them below.

Best,

Aly

Review: Worth it? Studio 35 Alpha Hydroxy Cream

Retrieved from: Walgreens.com

It's been a few days since I last posted! I've decided not to do my April 2015 Gripes because there was only one thing I didn't like in the month of April (Maybelline FaceStudie Master Conceal in Medium). I'm not going to waste your time by bashing it because this post is about the Studio 35 Alpha Hydroxy Cream! This post is basically a review and will cover:

1. Description
2. Claims
3. Application
4. First Application
5. Effectiveness

Without further ado, let's get to it!

1. Description: The Studio 35 Alpha Hydroxy Cream is a skin treatment and chemical exfoliator. Don't be alarmed by the word "chemical." It doesn't mean it's going to melt your face off. The Studio 35 uses 7.8% AHA that helps to gently slough off the dead skin you have on your face. What is AHA? Well, click here to view Wikipedia's take on AHAs. The Studio 35 comes in a tub with a black lid. To be honest, it doesn't look like much and I was hesitant about purchasing it because it looked so...unreliably plain. Nevertheless, I was desperate because I had the worst break out ever last year, and it left disgusting acne scars. Inside the tub, the cream itself is thick, white, and it smells like Elmer's glue. Yes, you read it correctly. Elmer's. Glue. Once you're desensitized, however, the smell is not as bothersome. 
2. Claims: According to Walgreen's website, the Studio 35 helps your skin by restoring its freshness, healthiness, and youthful appearance. It also states that it assists skin tone and texture.
3. Application: To apply, I use a cotton swab and scoop pea size to a dime size amount (and there's no reason why, it really is just random). You can use a spatula if you want. Then, with clean hands, apply to areas of your face/neck. Avoid putting it around your under eyes as that area is more sensitive than other areas of your face. This is super important especially if this is the first time you are using AHAs. I usually apply the cream by rubbing and patting. 
4. First Application: On my first application, IT BURNED LIKE A MOTHER! Holy crap! Well, that's an exaggeration. It stung on certain areas of my face (cheeks and around the nose), and it quickly abated. I also applied some to my neck, which didn't sting as much. It absorbed fairly quickly, and I used my Cetaphil moisturizer afterwards. There was no further reaction from it.
5. Effectiveness: I've been using this stuff for months now. I first used it every other 3 days until my skin was used to it. I decreased it to once a week when my skin started to peel (especially since I started using this during the winter). Once my skin got used to it, after two weeks, I returned to using it every 3 days. Then increased to every 2 days, and currently I am using it every other day. My skin has definitely improved! The majority of my scars have greatly faded. I have some scars that are starting to fade, and these are the deeper scars. Additionally, my skin texture is now SMOOTH! I do use this even when I have a few breakouts, and it stings! Note that I use this with my other skin care products. 

In all, I love this thing. It has improved my acne, acne scars, skin tone, and skin texture. I love it because this product lasts for so long! I'm not even halfway through the tub! Moreover, it's anti-aging! I'm 25, and anything to prevent wrinkles is a plus! Before I end this review, I want you to remember one important thing when using this: USE SPF 30 AND UP. It's better for your new skin after the cream has done its job!

If you have any questions, feel free to leave it in the comment below. I'll gladly answer your questions/concerns.

Best,

Aly

Upcoming Post: 

Review: L'Oreal Pro Matte Foundation

Makeup: April Favorites 2015

Here's a quick run down of my April favorites including a short review for each item. Enjoy, lovely guest!

1. BareMinerals Complexion Rescue in Ginger: It's getting hotter here in Texas, and I do NOT want to pile on the makeup! This little gem is light and moisturizing with minimum coverage. I usually apply this with a flat top kabuki brush after moisturizing with a mixture of the Aveeno Active Naturals Smart Essentials moisturizer and the Rimmel Fix and Perfect Pro Foundation Primer Liquid. This actually works for my skin type, which is oily/combo! This is perfect for everyday! (Also, I'm an NC35 in MAC)
2. MAC Prolong Wear in NC35: My love for this is indescribable! This is perfect for everything! It's a great concealer for blemishes and under the eyes! I'm not a fan of highlighting the eyes on an everyday basis, so I often opt for a more natural look. Anyway, this stuff is GREAT because it's also a multi-purpose item! Here's a tip! Use this with a daily moisturizer with spf and your favorite primer. Tada! You got yourself your own customizable tinted moisturizer (especially if you don't want to buy the product above this!)
3. Maybelline FitMe Matte + Poreless Powder in 220: Another great product for humid, spring/summer days! This powder truly camouflages my big pores (and I mean BIG), and it matches my skin tone!  I use this to either set my full-face makeup, or by itself (plus a concealer!)
4. L'Oreal Infallible Makeup Setting Spray: Thank goodness that the drugstore came out with this! This setting spray really keeps everything locked in to last through an +8hr day! My only gripe about this is the price! You're halfway through to pay for an Urban Decay setting spray!
5. Nyx Cosmetics Slide on Eye Pencil in Jet Black: Boring, I know. BUT! This is amaze-balls! Why? It actually stays on the waterline! It doesn't budge, and it's the darkest black eye-liner pencil I have seen! GIVE IT A TRY!

That's it for now, folks! I hope you enjoyed my first post! :) Please keep an eye out on the following posts, which are coming soon:

• April Gripes 2015
• Worth it? Studio 35 Alpha Hydroxy Face Cream
• Review: Maybelline FitMe Matte + Poreless Foundation
• Review: L'Oreal Infallible Pro Matte Foundation
• The Benefits of Vitamin C
• The Benefits of Being in the Present Moment (Mindfulness)