Tag: Best

Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture Sensitive Skin

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Product:  Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture Sensitive Skin.  Is this drugstore brand really as gentle as it claims to be?

Overall Rating =  4 stars4 Stars – Excellent

Cost:  $8.46 for 4 oz. ($2.12 per fluid ounce)  Price Category:  Inexpensive

Sold By:  Neutrogena; Walgreen’s; Wal-mart; Retailers everywhere.

Container:  Plastic bottle with twist-off pump, outer carton.

Description:  Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture Sensitive Skin is a no-frills water-based moisturizer.  This is a basic fragrance-free moisturizer that is readily available at most retailers.

Formula:  This does not contain any anti-aging antioxidants, cell-communicating ingredients or fancy bells and whistles.  It also doesn’t have any alcohol, stinky perfume or dye.  Sometimes, less is better.

Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture Sensitive Skin is intended to be used twice a day following cleansing and after the application of lighter products such as serums.

Please Note:  Please do not use this product if you have a soy allergy.  Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture Sensitive Skin contains soybean sterols so you will need to stay away from this one.

Company Claims:

“Oil-Free Moisture for Sensitive Skin is a lightweight, water-based moisturizer that provides gentle yet effective moisturization for even the most sensitive skin.

This feather-light, dermatologist-tested formula vanishes into skin—without leaving it greasy or shiny. Extra gentle and irritant-free, it is ideal for sensitive skin. And it contains no alcohol, which can dry skin.”

Morning Review:  Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture Sensitive is a medium weight white lotion.  A little goes a long way, and for me, a full pump is too much product.  It is almost as thick as a cream but it does not feel heavy.  I don’t like thick creams on my face.  I also don’t normally use or like products with any amount of petrolatum as they usually feel too heavy on my skin and feel tacky and sticky.  I do not have that reaction with this moisturizer.

It is fragrance-free and has almost no detectable scent.  The lotion feels silky and it absorbs quickly into the skin.  My very dry, hypersensitive skin likes this product.  I do not experience any redness, itching, burning, nose running, eyes watering, or other negative reaction.  This moisturizer leaves my face feeling soft, hydrated and velvety smooth.  Makeup goes on very well on top of this moisturizer.

Please Note:  If you have Rosacea, this should be mild enough and should be quite safe for you, but please check with your dermatologist.

Please Also Note:  Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture Sensitive Skin does not contain any sunscreen.  Please use a good quality sunscreen with this product.  If using a chemical sunscreen, apply the sunscreen first.  If using a physical sunscreen, apply the sunscreen last.  (I’ll discuss this in detail in a future post.)

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars

Evening Review:  After several hours my skin stayed soft and did not get dry or tight.  Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture Sensitive Skin really kept my skin hydrated without any irritation.  Normally, products with any amount of petrolatum make my T-zone oily and cause breakouts.  For some reason, I do not have that reaction with this product.

Overall Review:  Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture Sensitive Skin is a basic moisturizer that simply does what it claims to do.  This is a good moisturizer for those who use topical products for acne or Retin-A.  If you use too many anti-aging products at once you can create a recipe for disaster.  Sometimes simple is a good thing.  This is the moisturizer that I mix with the AHA products that are too harsh for my skin.

Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture Sensitive Skin is suitable for men as well as women.  Users with very oily skin may find this too moisturizing for them.  If it makes your skin feel oily, try using less, or mixing it with a little water to dilute it

Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture Sensitive Skin is suitable for the following skin types:

  • All ethnicities;
  • All ages;
  • All sexes;
  • Oily (may need to dilute with water);
  • Dry;
  • Sensitive;
  • Consistent;
  • Combination.

Please see the Help page to determine your skin type.

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Evening Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 4 stars4 Stars;

Value Rating  = 4 stars4 Stars;

Overall Rating = 4 stars4 Stars, Excellent

(Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture Sensitive Skin

Neutrogena Box Front & Bottle

Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture Sensitive Skin

Neutrogena Box Back

Ingredients:  Water, Glycerin, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Dimethicone, Petrolatum, Cyclomethicone, Soybean (Glycine Soja) Sterols , Isopropyl Isostearate, Cetyl Alcohol, PEG-10 Soy Sterol, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Carbomer, Tetrasodium EDTA, Sodium Hydroxide, Diazolidinyl Urea, Ethylparaben, Methylparaben, Propylparaben.

Formulated Without:  Alcohol, Artificial Fragrance, Artificial Color, Oil.

Kiss Singles One Time Use Lash Adhesive

Product:  Kiss Singles One Time Use Lash Adhesive.  Keep your flirty fake lashes in place without worries for hours.

Overall Rating Best = 4 stars4 Stars – Excellent.

Cost:  $3.50 (.25 fl. oz.) ($14 per fluid ounce)  Price Category: Inexpensive

Sold By:  KissUSA; RiteAid; Walgreen’s; Walmart; Retailers everywhere.

Container:  12 individual plastic tubes/vials, twist-off replaceable tops.  (You can also get a similar fragrance-free formula from Kiss in a brush-on applicator that comes in a bottle containing .176 ounces under the name Kiss Strip Lash Adhesive.)

Description:  Kiss Singles One Time Use Lash Adhesive is an eyelash glue that comes in tiny vials intended to only be used once and then tossed.  The single-use vials insure that there is never any risk for contamination and the glue stays fresh longer because it is not exposed to air.

Formula:  This is a fairly thin white adhesive that dries clear.  It will take 30-40 seconds to become tacky and adhere.

Sensitivity:  Kiss Singles One Time Use Lash Adhesive is hypoallergenic, latex free, formaldehyde free and is suitable for those with sensitive eyes or contacts.  This does contain fragrance as the last ingredient, but I have not experienced any negative reactions from it and I have not had any reports of sensitivity issues from testers or clients, so the amount contained must be miniscule.

Company Claims:

     “Take it with you! Twist open, flip over and use the individual tube of lash adhesive. Then recap and pop it in your purse in case you need more later on. The tube is pressure sensitive so you control how much glue you use.
    — 12 Single-Use Tubes with Aloe, Dermatologist Tested, Latex-Free, Formaldehyde Free, Contact Lens Friendly”

Discussion:  This month we discussed false eyelashes.  When applying fake lashes, you need an effective adhesive.  The glue is even more important than the brand of eyelash you use.  The best false eyelashes in the world are not going to look good if the glue does not adhere properly or irritates your eyes and turns them red and watery.

What makes a good false eyelash adhesive?

  • Ingredients – The ingredients should not cause any burning or redness.
  • Ease of application – Does it go on easily or make a big goopy mess?
  • Comfortable feel – The glue should not irritate your eyes or make them feel sticky.
  • Inconspicuous appearance – You want to see the lashes, not the glue.
  • Longevity – A good glue should keep your lashes in place for 12-24 hours depending upon your activity.
  • Water resistance — The glue should not be affected by rain or tears.
  • Ease of removal – Does the glue come off easily from the false lashes and from your natural lashes?

Colors:  Kiss Singles One Time Use Lash Adhesive comes in only one color, Clear.

Please Note:  Kiss and other brands make lash glue in black.  If you have sensitive eyes, you may need to stay away from black lash glues.  I cannot wear them and the dye irritates my eyes.  Always perform a patch test on your inner elbow before applying a new product to your eyes.

Morning Review:  After applying other eye makeup I apply false eyelashes with Kiss Singles One Time Use Lash Adhesive.  I like these because they are sterile and I can use a fresh tube for each client.  I apply the glue to the eyelash with a sterile toothpick instead of directly from the tube.  This way I can apply a very thin line of glue to the lash strip.

Once the lash is in place, I touch up the eyeliner if necessary and blend the false lash into the natural lash with Ardell Lash Magic Blending Mascara.

Helpful Tips/Tricks:

Evening Review:  After many hours, the false lashes are still on without any lifting.  The lashes and the glue have not caused any irritation, sensitivity, or redness.

Overall Review:  Kiss Singles One Time Use Lash Adhesive is sanitary, long lasting and does not irritate sensitive eyes.

Pros:

  • Sanitary with no risk for contamination
  • Applies quickly and easily
  • Stays on for many hours
  • Removes easily with eye makeup remover
  • Hypoallergenic formula does not cause any irritation
  • Inexpensive

Cons:

  • The store is always sold out of these and I have a difficult time finding them.

Suitability:  Kiss Singles One Time Use Lash Adhesive is suitable for the following users:

  • All wearers of false eyelashes

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Evening Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 4 stars4 Stars;

Value Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Overall Rating = 4 stars4 Stars = Excellent.

Would Buy Again?  Yes.

(Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Kiss Singles One Time Use Lash AdhesiveKiss Singles One Time Use Lash AdhesiveKiss Singles One Time Use Lash AdhesiveKiss Singles One Time Use Lash Adhesive

Kiss Singles One Time Use Lash Adhesive on Kiss Lashes

Kiss Singles One Time Use Lash Adhesive on Kiss Lashes

Kiss Singles One Time Use Lash Adhesive On Kiss Lashes

Kiss Singles One Time Use Lash Adhesive On Kiss Lashes

Ingredients:  Acrylates/Ethylhexyl Acrylate Copolymer, Water (Aqua), Propylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Triethanolamine, Carbomer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Fragrance (Parfum).

Important:  Please read our full Disclaimer before using this or any product.

Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara

Product:  Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara.  Lancôme mascaras have a cult following but I don’t know why anyone buys this one more than once.

Overall Rating = 2+ stars2.13 Stars – Just Okay.

Cost:  $25.50 (.25 fl. oz.) ($102 per fluid ounce)  Price Category: Expensive

Sold By:  Lancôme USA; Dillard’s; Nordstrom; Sephora; Ulta; Major department stores everywhere.

Container:  Plastic tube with twist-off tapered S-shaped wand, outer carton.

Description:  Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara is a deep black water-based mascara.  You do not need to use an eye makeup remover with this mascara.

Formula:  This is a medium-wet, thick, creamy, fiber-free formula.  It is water resistant, not waterproof.

Sensitivity:  Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara is fragrance-free and I have not experienced any sensitivity issues personally or had any reported from testers or clients.  I have not used this on very many clients.  This is suitable those who wear contacts or have sensitive eyes.

Company Claims:

“Get instant lash drama in a single coat, no clumping or flaking.

  • Intense black pigments
  • Triple coating system delivers a fluid and creamy application to quickly and easily build big, battable lashes that won’t clump or flake throughout the day.

Benefits

  • Unique, oversized brush provides full contact with lashes for ultimate volume
  • Delivers maximum lash coating with immediate load gives lashes instant volume
  • Fluid, creamy gliding formula evenly coats lashes from root to tip for buildable volume
  • Promises intense, deep color
  • Fragrance-Free. Ophthalmologist Tested. Allergy Tested. Safe for contact lens wearers.

Technology

  • New oversized S-shaped curve full contact Convex Brush
  • Texturizing Complex formula with highly saturated waxes
  • Triple Coating System enriched with Pro Vitamin B5
  • Deep Carbon Black Pigments”

Discussion:  I had to laugh.  I recently read a review for Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara.  The reviewer said, “I’ve tried a lot of mascaras in my lifetime (seven) and this one is my favorite.”  Really?  Seven in your lifetime?  I’ve tried more than seven in one day.  I’ve tried several hundred in my lifetime.  I would like to know what the other six were that led her to believe this one was good.

Lancôme’s primary marketing claims for Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara is that it does not clump.  I beg to differ.  I found this to be one of the worst clumping mascaras I have ever used.

Colors:  Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Full Body Volume Mascara comes in one color, Excessive Black.

Morning Review:  I tried this on its own and by putting it on top of Lancôme Cils Booster mascara primer.  With or without primer, it clumped.

My first impression of Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara is that I don’t like the brush that is on the wand.  The brush is oversized, thick and S-shaped.  It feels awkward to use.  The shape doesn’t correspond to the shape of your eye and doesn’t make sense to me.  The wand would only be appropriate for those with very large eyes.  It won’t work well at all for those with small or deep-set eyes and it is terrible for lower or under lashes.

There was a lot of excess formula on the tip, so I had to wipe off quite a bit on the rubber collar before working on the lower lashes.  (See photo of collar below)

As far as the formula goes, the mascara is a nice deep jet-black color and it does an excellent job of coating the lashes and adding volume with just one coat.  It also does a terrific job of clumping them together.  I had to work quite a bit to comb through the lashes to get the clumps out.  Once I worked on them, they looked good but it did require quite a bit of effort.

On a separate day I tried the mascara with a completely different dry mascara wand and it worked much better.  The problem with this mascara is not so much with the formula but with the delivery system and the wand.  The tube applies too much product to the weird wand.

Evening Review:  Lancôme Hypnose Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara stays on well.  After many hours there was no flaking or smudging of the mascara.  It came off easily with regular facial cleanser.

Overall Review:  Lancôme Hypnose Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara is not the worst mascara I have ever used, but it certainly is not among the best, either.  The formula itself does have good staying power if you have the patience to remove the clumps to get it looking good.  I would definitely use a different wand and not the one supplied with the mascara.  Since I only use disposable wands on clients, the wand is not an issue for me professionally.  Overall, this one just fell short for me and there are many others that produce better results.

Pros:

  • Makes thin lashes look considerably thicker
  • Stays on well without flaking
  • Color is a nice deep black
  • Comes off easily without the need for eye makeup remover

Cons:

  • Tube applies too much mascara to the wand
  • Wand is too large
  • Wand shape is awkward to use
  • Clumping occurs if you use the supplied wand.
  • Price

Suitability:  Lancôme Hypnose Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara is suitable for the following users:

  • All users (if you don’t mind working with it or using a separate wand)

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

Evening Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 2+ stars2.5 Stars;

Value Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

Overall Rating = 2+ stars2.13 Stars = Just Okay.

Would Buy Again?  No, I would not buy this one again.

(Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Instant Full Body Volume MascaraLancôme Hypnôse Drama Instant Full Body Volume MascaraLancôme Hypnôse Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara Package

Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara Wand Close Up

Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara Wand Close Up

Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara Collar Close Up

Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara Formula Swatch

Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara Formula Swatch

Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara Clumps

Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara Clumps

Ingredients:  AQUA / WATER / EAU, PARAFFIN, POTASSIUM CETYL PHOSPHATE, CERA ALBA / BEESWAX / CIRE DABEILLE, CERA CARNAUBA / CARNAUBA WAX / CIRE DE CARNAUBA, ACACIA SENEGAL / ACACIA SENEGAL GUM, CETYL ALCOHOL, GLYCERIN, PEG/PPG-17/18 DIMETHICONE, STEARETH-20, SIMETHICONE, SODIUM POLYMETHACRYLATE, PHENETHYL ALCOHOL, DISODIUM EDTA, HYDROGENATED JOJOBA OIL, HYDROGENATED PALM OIL, HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE, PANTHENOL, POLYQUATERNIUM-10, PHENOXYETHANOL, [+/- MAY CONTAIN / PEUT CONTENIR, CI 77266 / BLACK 2, CI 77499 / IRON OXIDES]

Important:  Please read our full Disclaimer before using this or any product.

Lancôme Cils Booster Mascara Base

Product:  Lancôme Cils Booster XL Base de Mascara Super-Enhancing Mascara Base.  If you weren’t born with long, full, luscious eyelashes, a lash primer can definitely amp up the volume and make the most of what you have.

Overall Rating = 3+ stars3.5 Stars – Very Good.

Cost:  $25.50 (.18 fl. oz.) ($141.67 per fluid ounce)  Price Category: Expensive

Sold By:  Lancôme USA; Dillard’s; Nordstrom; Sephora; Ulta; Major Dept. stores everywhere.

Container:  Plastic tube with twist-off tapered wand, outer carton.

Description:  Lancôme Cils Booster XL Base de Mascara Super-Enhancing Mascara Base is a primer that is intended to be worn as a base coat under mascara.  As this is white in color, it cannot be worn by itself without looking very strange.

I would not describe this as a wet formula.  It is more of a medium-dry formula.  It has almost no scent other than a faint polymer smell.

Sensitivity:  Lancôme Cils Booster is fragrance-free and I have never experienced any sensitivity issues personally or from clients/testers.  This is suitable those who wear contacts or have sensitive eyes.

Company Claims:  “Give your lashes an XL boost. With just one sweep, this innovative mascara primer glides on and evenly coats and smoothes your lashes to maximize the results of your favorite Lancôme mascara. The magic behind this mascara base is the conditioning formula—featuring micro-fibers and Vitamin E—to add extra length and thickness to your lashes for added visible performance to your mascara.”

Benefits

  • Lengthens and thickens lashes without clumping
  • Maximizes the results of your favorite Lancôme mascara
  • Protects and conditions lashes
  • Smoothes eyelashes by coating them thinly and evenly—emphasizing even the shortest lashes
  • Intensifies color of your favorite mascara

Technology

  • Micro-Fibers
  • D-Panthénol and Vitamin E
  • Triangular, thin-shaped brush
  • Provides a white base for mascara to cover

Discussion:  Mascara primers serve a few purposes:

  • Coat the lashes to increase the diameter making them appear thicker
  • Provide ingredients that promote the health of the eyelashes
  • Act as a first coat of mascara thereby allowing for use of less mascara

Colors:  Lancôme Cils Booster comes in one color, white.

Morning Review:  Before applying mascara, coat both the upper and lower lashes thoroughly with a light coat of Lancôme Cils Booster.

Lancôme Cils Booster definitely makes lashes look thicker.  I would say the emphasis is more on thickness than length.  The company says the product contains micro fibers.  These are not like the thick fibers that you see in lash-extension type mascaras that can flake off and get into your eyes.  I did not actually see any fibers anywhere in the formula even when I inspected it with a magnifying glass.

Helpful Tips:

If you read reviews for this product you may find the information confusing, as some people say to apply mascara on top of the Lancôme Cils Booster while it is still wet, and others say to wait until the primer is dry.  Here are my thoughts:

  • If you apply your mascara on top of Lancôme Cils Booster while it is still wet and you use the wand that comes with your tube of mascara, you have just contaminated your mascara by getting wet primer on the wand. As soon as you put the wand back into the tube of mascara containing wet primer, your mascara will not perform the same and the mascara will produce terrible clumps.
  • When you remove the Lancôme Cils Booster wand from the tube, scrape some of the primer back into the tube so the brush won’t be too full of product.
  • Apply the Lancôme Cils Booster to one eye at a time as it dries quickly.
  • A light coat will work better than a thick coat.
  • After applying the primer brush through the lashes with a dry wand to remove clumps before applying mascara.
  • By the time you have finished with the second eye, the first eye is dry.
  • If you find that your mascara is clumping worse on top of the primer, it is because you are using too much primer.
  • If you are having trouble completely covering the white primer and some of it is still showing, first apply a light coat of mascara, then the Lancôme Cils Booster and finally another coat of mascara. By “sandwiching” the primer with mascara you will eliminate the potential for any graying or white showing through.

Evening Review:  Lancôme Cils Booster makes lashes look considerably thicker and makes mascara perform better.  After many hours there is no flaking or smudging of the mascara.  You can use Lancôme Cils Booster under any brand of mascara even though Lancôme would prefer that you use this over a Lancôme mascara.

Overall Review:  Lancôme Cils Booster Base de Mascara Super-Enhancing Mascara Base performs very well and provides excellent results for making the most of thin or sparse eyelashes.

Pros:

  • Makes thin lashes look considerably thicker.
  • Makes mascara go further as you use less mascara.
  • Primer gives mascara something to bind to.

Cons:

  • The tip of the wand is too bulky for my taste; I would prefer a narrower, more tapered tip for greater control and ease of use on the lower lashes. (I like the wand that comes with Clinique Lash Building Primer.)
  • Price

Suitability:  Lancôme Cils Booster is suitable for the following users:

  • All users

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Evening Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 4 stars4 Stars;

Value Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

Overall Rating = 3+ stars3.5 Stars = Very Good.

(Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Lancôme Cils BoosterLancôme Cils Booster PackageLancôme Cils Booster Wand and SwatchLashes Without Mascara or Lancôme Cils BoosterLashes With Lancôme Cils Booster By ItselfLashes With Mascara By ItselfLashes With Mascara over Lancôme Cils Booster

Lancôme Cils Booster Before After

Ingredients:  AQUA / WATER / EAU, ORYZA SATIVA CERA / RICE BRAN WAX, COPERNICIA CERIFERA CERA / CARNAUBA WAX / CIRE DE CARNAUBA, CERA ALBA / BEESWAX / CIRE DABEILLE, STEARIC ACID, CANDELILLA CERA / CANDELILLA WAX / CIRE DE CANDELILLA, TRIETHANOLAMINE, PALMITIC ACID, ACACIA SENEGAL / ACACIA SENEGAL GUM, PANTHENOL, PEG/PPG-17/18 DIMETHICONE, SODIUM POLYMETHACRYLATE, MYRISTIC ACID, RAYON, HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE, POLYCAPROLACTONE, POLYQUATERNIUM-10, TOCOPHERYL ACETATE, METHYLPARABEN, PROPYLPARABEN.

Important:  Please read our full Disclaimer before using this or any product.

Dior Diorshow Brow Styler Ultra-fine Precision Brow Pencil

Product: Dior Diorshow Brow Styler Ultra-fine Precision Brow Pencil.  When only the best will do, you can’t beat this luxury brand.

Overall Rating = 4.25 Stars – Excellent Plus

Cost: $29 for .003 oz. ($9666.67 per ounce)  Price Category: Expensive

Sold By: Dior; Dillard’s; Nordstrom; Sephora; Major department stores everywhere.

Container: Plastic outer housing, snap-on cap, retractable pencil, outer carton.

Description: Dior Diorshow Brow Styler Ultra-fine Precision Brow Pencil is a very slim retractable water-resistant eyebrow pencil that allows you to simulate actual hairs with the extra-small tip.  There is a built-in spoolie brush on one end and this pencil never needs to be sharpened.  Depending upon your facial cleanser you may or may not need an eye makeup remover to completely get this off.

Sensitivity:  Dior Diorshow Brow Styler Ultra-fine Precision Brow Pencil is a fragrance-free product suitable for those with sensitive eyes or contact lenses.  I have never experienced any sensitivity issues personally and I have never had any complaints from clients or testers.

Company Claims:  “This ultra-fine retractable pencil naturally fills in brows and helps shape with precision.  Brush brows upwards to widen the eyes, then apply with light pencil strokes to fill in brows. Blend with the brush.”

Discussion:  If you ask most American women the first brand of makeup they used as a young girl, the response is usually something like Max Factor, Maybelline or Revlon.  The first makeup I ever bought and used was Christian Dior (as it used to be known).  I spent a lot of time in Europe in my late teens and twenties and Dior was common there.  This is, and always has been, one of my favorite lines of eye makeup.  Yes, Dior is expensive, but you can’t beat the quality of most of their products.  I’m not a huge fan of their skin care line as I stay away from anything that contains fragrance.

I have been discussing eyebrows quite a bit this month because they continue to be such an important trend.  There are so many options when it comes to eyebrow products that it can be daunting to find the right combination of products to achieve natural-looking eyebrows.

A lot of women draw their eyebrows on with their eyeliner pencil.  I do not advise doing this as an eyebrow pencil is very different from an eyeliner pencil.  An eyeliner pencil should be soft enough so as to go on smoothly and not tug on the delicate skin of the eyelid.  That same soft pencil will smudge terribly if used as an eyebrow pencil.  The formula for a good eyebrow pencil should be much dryer and firmer feeling than an eyeliner pencil for better staying power.

What makes a good eyebrow pencil?

  • Natural looking colors that aren’t too red or orange
  • Ease of application
  • No smudging
  • Good staying power
  • Waterproof or very water resistant
  • Nice thin point for control

Dior Diorshow Brow Styler Ultra-fine Precision Brow Pencil meets all of my qualifications.

Colors:  Dior Diorshow Brow Styler Ultra-fine Precision Brow Pencil comes in three colors:  001 Universal Brown; 002 Universal Dark Brown; and 011 Light Brown.  I use 001 Universal Brown the most.  Universal brown is a cool medium brown.  Blondes should go with Light Brown and those with naturally black eyebrows or dark skin should go with Universal Dark Brown. 

Morning Review:  Dior Diorshow Brow Styler Ultra-fine Precision Brow Pencil is step one in my eyebrow application when I don’t want to use a marker.  If I’m in a hurry and only have time for one quick step, this is the pencil I use.

The beauty of this pencil is that the diameter of the lead (so to speak) is so tiny that you can actually simulate individual brow hairs for a completely natural look, if you have the patience to draw them on.  Very few eyebrow products offer this much control.  It will look the best if you use lots of tiny short strokes.

If I have time, I will set this pencil and the eyebrow hairs with a gel to keep the brow hairs neat and flat.

Evening Review:  After twelve hours the Dior Diorshow Brow Styler Ultra-fine Precision Brow Pencil was still on and did not smudge, fade, flake or cause any irritation issues to my dry skin or sensitive eyes.  My testers with normal skin and oily skin had similar results.  It did come off with my makeup wipes at the end of the day.

Overall Review:  Dior Diorshow Brow Styler Ultra-fine Precision Brow Pencil is probably the best eyebrow pencil I have ever used.  Yes, it is a splurge in terms of cost, but sometimes the cost can be justified by the results and this is one of those items that produces impressive results.  Sadly, this is too expensive for me to use on most clients on a daily basis.  When I find a less expensive dupe, I’ll update this post and let you know.

Pros:

  • Fine tip allows for precision application
  • Professional results
  • Colors are excellent and don’t look red or orange
  • Water resistant
  • Stays on extremely well without smudging
  • For sale at many US retailers

Cons:

  • Price
  • No professional discount program
  • I wish it came in a refillable package.

Users:  Dior Diorshow Brow Styler Ultra-fine Precision Brow Pencil is suitable for the following users:

  • All users

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 5 stars5 Stars;

Evening Rating = 5 stars5 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 5 stars5 Stars;

Value Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

Overall Rating = 4.25 Stars = Excellent Plus.

(Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Ingredients: Talc, stearic acid, rhussuccedanea fruit wax, hydrogenated castor oil, cera alba (bees-wax), cera mictrocristallina (micro-crystalline wax), paraffinum liquidum (mineral oil), hydrogenated coconut oil, hydrogenated palm kernel oil, hydrogenated palm oil. Mica, tin oxide, Cl 19140 (yellow 5, yellow 5 lake), Cl 42090 (blue 1 lake), Cl 75470 (carmine), Cl 77000 (aluminum powder), Cl 77002 (aluminum hydroxide), Cl 77007 (ultramarines), Cl 77163 (bismuth oxychloride), Cl 77288 (chromium oxide greens), Cl 77289 (chromium hydroxide greens), Cl 77491, Cl 77492, Cl 77499 (iron oxides), Cl 77510 (ferric ferrocyanide, ferric ammonium ferrocyanide), Cl 77742 (manganese violet), Cl 77891 (titanium dioxide).

Dior Diorshow Brow Styler Ultra-fine Precision Brow Pencil

Dior Diorshow Brow Styler Ultra-fine Precision Brow Pencil Tip

Dior Diorshow Brow Styler Ultra-fine Precision Brow Pencil Tip

Dior Diorshow Brow Styler Ultra-fine Precision Brow Pencil Spoolie

Dior Diorshow Brow Styler Ultra-fine Precision Brow Pencil Spoolie

Dior Diorshow Brow Styler Ultra-fine Precision Brow Pencil Tester Eyebrow Before

Tester Eyebrow Before

Tester After Dior Diorshow Brow Styler Ultra-fine Precision Brow Pencil

Tester Eyebrow After Dior Diorshow Brow Styler Ultra-fine Precision Brow Pencil (Makeup by Tester, not L A Rose)

Important:  Please read our full Disclaimer before using this or any product.

Wet N Wild H2O Proof Liquid Eyeliner

Product:  Wet N Wild H2O Proof Liquid Eyeliner.  If you tend to cry a lot, this eyeliner might be great for you!  (If you’re skilled with eyeliner, you probably won’t love the brush.)

Overall Rating = 3+ stars3.75 Stars – Very Good

Cost: $3.99 for .17 fl. oz. ($23.47 per fluid ounce)  Price Category: Inexpensive

Sold By: Wet N Wild Beauty; Walgreen’s; Wal-mart; Retailers everywhere.

Container: Plastic bottle with twist-off cap and felt-tip wand, outer carton.

Description: Wet N Wild H2O Proof Liquid Eyeliner is a very long-lasting liquid eyeliner formula.  The attached applicator is a felt-tip brush, just like the kind in the marker-type eyeliners.  You will need an eye makeup remover to completely get this off.

Sensitivity:  Wet N Wild H2O Proof Liquid Eyeliner is a fragrance-free product suitable for those with sensitive eyes or contact lenses.  I have never experienced any sensitivity issues personally and I have never had any complaints from clients or testers.

Company Claims:  “Cue the waterworks! This liner provides lasting definition that won’t let you down. It’s waterproof, smudge-proof, and super long-lasting. Use the precise applicator brush to create everything from subtle fine lines to bold dramatic looks.

  • Long-lasting waterproof formula
  • Won’t skip, smudge, or streak”

Discussion:  Wet N Wild is a very inexpensive brand that is readily available at most retail outlets.  Their line has expanded and the quality of their products has improved quite a bit in recent years.

I have always been a huge fan of the cat-eye and winged eyeliner looks and liquid eyeliner is the best formula for that.  I’m constantly buying eyeliners in search of the perfect formula.  I’m also on a quest to try and find an inexpensive one that performs well that I can buy in bulk for each client.

What qualities do I look for in a liquid eyeliner?

  • Nice deep color saturation
  • Ease of application
  • No streaking
  • Good staying power
  • Waterproof or very water resistant
  • No flaking
  • Small flexible applicator that provides good control

This one meets some of my qualifications, but not all.

Colors:  Wet N Wild H2O Proof Liquid Eyeliner comes in two colors:  879-Black and 880-Dark Brown.  I have not used the Dark Brown.  The Black is a very deep, heavily-pigmented jet black.

Please note:  The packaging has recently changed from a black bottle with a silver applicator to an all-black color scheme and the following colors have been discontinued:  881-Ultra Black; 882-Black Brown; 883-Smoky; and 884-Expresso.  If you see the older colors for sale, check the expiration date as they are old stock, and may not perform as well.  The product I’m reviewing is color 881 which has now been discontinued.

Morning Review:  I always apply liquid eyeliner after primer and shadows and before lashes.  I use liquid eyeliner on the upper eyelids, only, never the lower.  I also do not use liquid eyeliner for tightlining.

The first thing I noticed when I opened the bottle was just how much product was on the brush.  (I’m calling this a brush even though it is technically a felt tip.)  There was way too much product to allow for any kind of control.  I had to wipe quite a bit off on the collar before applying it.  Also, the formula looked very wet and shiny, so I did not think I was going to like it at all as I don’t like eyeliners that dry with a sheen.  The next thing I noticed was how firm the felt tip was.  It is very stiff with no flexibility.  I could not make this eyeliner look good with the attached brush as it made the line too thick.  I then tried it with my own eyeliner brush and was quite impressed at how evenly it went on.  It took a full 90 seconds for it to dry completely.  Once dry, the finish was a beautiful rich matte finish.

Evening Review:  After twelve hours the Wet N Wild H2O Proof Liquid Eyeliner was still on and did not smudge, fade, flake or cause any irritation issues to my dry skin or sensitive eyes.  My tester with oily skin said it lasted about eight hours on her before it started to fade and smudge a little.  The products did not come off with cleanser and I had to use an eye makeup remover intended for waterproof products.

Overall Review:  Wet N Wild H2O Proof Liquid Eyeliner is a very good eyeliner formula with a terrible applicator.  This is not such a bad thing for personal use, but I would not buy this one again, as I need something that comes with a good usable applicator for my clients.  If I need to have a stack of separate eyeliner brushes, that defeats the purpose for me.  If you wear a very thick line on your upper lids you may like the applicator.

Pros:

  • Very deep black color
  • Waterproof
  • Stays on extremely well
  • Very Inexpensive
  • For sale at most US retailers

Cons:

  • The rubber liner on the bottle doesn’t clean off the wand part very well so you get too much extra product on it.
  • I have to use a separate brush for application or it gets messy looking.
  • It takes a while for it to dry down completely so you have to be careful not to move your eyes too much or it will transfer to your eyelid.
  • Need more colors available

Users:  Wet N Wild H2O Proof Liquid Eyeliner is suitable for the following users:

  • All users

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 3 stars4 Stars for formula – 1 Star for brush = 3 Stars;

Evening Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 4 stars4 Stars;

Value Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Overall Rating = 3+ stars3.75 Stars = Very Good.

(Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Wet N Wild H2O Proof Liquid Eyeliner Current Bottle

Wet N Wild H2O Proof Liquid Eyeliner Current Bottle

Wet N Wild H2O Proof Liquid Eyeliner Current Package

Wet N Wild H2O Proof Liquid Eyeliner Current Package

Wet N Wild H2O Proof Liquid Eyeliner Former Bottle and Package

Wet N Wild H2O Proof Liquid Eyeliner Former Bottle and Package

Wet N Wild H2O Proof Liquid Eyeliner On Eye

Wet N Wild H2O Proof Liquid Eyeliner On Eye

Ingredients:  Isododecane, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Trimethylpentanediol/Adipic Acid/Glycerin Crosspolymer , C11-12 Isoparaffin, Polypropylsilsesquioxane, C8-9 Isoparaffin, Trihydroxystearin, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Phenoxyethanol, Sorbic Acid, Tocopherol, Black 2/CI 77266.

Important:  Please read our full Disclaimer before using this or any product.

Rimmel London Brow This Way Brow Sculpting Kit

Product:  Rimmel London Brow This Way Brow Sculpting Kit.  This is a makeup and beauty steal!

Overall Rating = 4.25 Stars – Excellent plus

Cost: $2.69 for .07 fl. oz. (Total) ($38.43 per fluid ounce)  Price Category: Dirt Cheap

Sold By: US Rimmel London; Ulta; Walgreen’s; Walmart; Retailers everywhere.

Container: Plastic flip-top package, outer blister card.

Description: Rimmel London Brow This Way Brow Sculpting Kit contains four products in one tiny package:

  • (1) A .03 ounce pan of colored brow wax to tint the skin, coat the brow hairs and tame the brow hairs;
  • (2) A .04 ounce pan of colored brow powder to set the wax and add fullness to the brow hairs;
  • (3) A double-ended slanted applicator brush for the wax and powder; and
  • (4) A spoolie brush to smooth the brow hairs.

Depending upon your facial cleanser, this water-resistant eyebrow kit may or may not require an eye makeup remover to effectively take all of it off.

Sensitivity:  Rimmel London Brow This Way Brow Sculpting Kit is a fragrance-free product suitable for those with sensitive eyes or contact lenses.  I have never experienced any sensitivity issues personally and I have never had any complaints from clients or testers.

Company Claims:  “Sculpt the perfect photo-ready, high impact brow

  • 2 easy steps – Apply wax to shape & fix –  Layer powder to set
  • Comes with pro brushes for precise application
  • Long lasting formula feels lightweight and comfortable all day long”

Discussion:  Rimmel London has been around for a very long time.  Rimmel London was founded 183 years ago all the way back in 1834 and is now owned by cosmetics giant, Coty.  The founder, Eugene Rimmel, is credited with inventing mascara.  (Thanks, Eugene!)  Rimmel London is a highly-publicized, inexpensive brand that is readily available at most retail outlets.

If you’ve turned on a TV, watched a movie or read a magazine in the last couple of years, you’ve seen most women sporting rather bold eyebrows.  Whether they’re dark, heavy and bold, neatly groomed, tattooed on, or just looking natural, the brow trend is apparently here to stay.  With so much emphasis placed on the appearance of brows these days, it is important that you don’t neglect yours when applying makeup.

Yesterday I reviewed Milani Brow Tint Pen and mentioned that the brow pen was the first step in achieving well-groomed brows.  You could also use a brow pencil for step one.  Today’s product, Rimmel London Brow This Way Brow Sculpting Kit, provides steps two and three.

If you have really good brows and only need to fill in a small sparse area or tame a stray hair, then you may be able to skip the brow pen or the pencil and use Rimmel London Brow This Way Brow Sculpting Kit on its own.

Colors:  Rimmel London Brow This Way Brow Sculpting Kit comes in three colors:  Blonde, Medium Brown and Dark Brown.  I mostly use the Blonde or Medium Brown.  I like Blonde the best as it is the coolest of the three colors and does not make the brows look too heavy. 

Morning Review:  I draw on the eyebrow shape with the brow pen.  Once the eyebrow shape is on and filled in, I then go over it with Rimmel London Brow This Way wax.  I prefer to use a longer stiffer brush than the one that comes with the kit, but the little brush is quite usable if that is all you have.  The third step is to then set the wax with Rimmel London Brow This Way powder.  The fourth step is to blend the wax and powder together with the included spoolie brush.  The final step is to set the eyebrows with a taming gel that I will be reviewing in a future post.  By using a combination of products, the eyebrows have dimension, look natural and will stay on for many hours.

Evening Review:  After several hours Rimmel London Brow This Way Brow Sculpting Kit did not smudge, fade, flake or cause any irritation issues.  The products were easily removed with my makeup wipes.

Overall Review:  Rimmel London Brow This Way Brow Sculpting Kit performs quite well and is one of the best makeup bargains I have ever found.  I can buy one for each client without going broke in the process.

Pros:

  • One tiny package holds four useful items.
  • Perfect for a handbag or travel
  • Easy to use
  • Stays on well
  • Lasts for quite a while without drying out
  • Very Inexpensive
  • For sale at most US retailers

Cons:

  • Need more cool colors available

Helpful Tips & Tricks:

  • If using this over a tint or marker, make sure the marker is fully dry prior to applying the wax.
  • If you are using serum, sunscreen or moisturizer first, be sure it is fully absorbed, as the wax won’t adhere well to oily skin or products.
  • Make sure to completely cover the wax with the powder to prevent smudging.
  • Always apply both products in the direction of the hair growth.

Users:  Rimmel London Brow This Way Brow Sculpting Kit is suitable for the following users:

  • All users

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Evening Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 4 stars4 Stars;

Value Rating = 5 stars5 Stars;

Overall Rating = 4.25 Stars – Excellent plus.

(Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Rimmel London Brow This Way Brow Sculpting KitRimmel London Brow This Way Brow Sculpting KitRimmel London Brow This Way Brow Sculpting Kit Open

Rimmel London Brow This Way Brow Sculpting Kit Colors

Rimmel London Brow This Way Brow Sculpting Kit Colors

Rimmel London Brow This Way Brow Sculpting Kit Brushes

Rimmel London Brow This Way Brow Sculpting Kit Brushes Included

Rimmel London Brow This Way Brow Sculpting Kit Medium Brown

Rimmel London Brow This Way Brow Sculpting Kit Medium Brown

Ingredients:  Wax:  Polybutene, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Beeswax, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Microcrystalline Wax, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Talc, Mica, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Alumina, Glycerin.  May Contain (+/-):  Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499), Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891).

Powder:  Mica, Talc, Dimethicone, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Magnesium Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Alumina, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Silica.  May Contain (+/-):  Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499), Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891).

Important:  Please read our full Disclaimer before using this or any product.

Milani Brow Tint Pen

Product:  Milani Brow Tint Pen.  This is the first step in filling in sparse eyebrows.  This pen makes it quick and easy.

Overall Rating = 4 stars4 Stars

Cost: $5.47 for .04 fl. oz. ($136.75 per fluid ounce)  Price Category: Inexpensive

Sold By: Milani Cosmetics; Walgreen’s; Walmart; Retailers everywhere.

Container: Plastic marker pen with snap-on cap, outer blister pack.

Description: Milani Brow Tint Pen is a felt-tip marker type of eyebrow pen with an ink that tints the skin.  Depending upon your facial cleanser, this water-resistant eyebrow tint may or may not require an eye makeup remover to effectively take all of it off.

Sensitivity:  Milani Brow Tint Pen is a fragrance-free product suitable for those with sensitive eyes or contact lenses.  I have never experienced any sensitivity issues personally and I have never had any complaints from clients or testers.

Company Claims:  “To get straight to the point, precision brow styling has never been easier than with the long-wearing, felt-tip Brow Tint Pen. Fill in sparse areas, fake a lush fullness or simply shape and define your look. It’s an extra dose of soft matte refinement in an easy-to-use pen.”

Discussion:  Milani Cosmetics is a relatively new brand that was founded in 2009 in California.  The products are inspired by the looks of Milan, Italy.  This is an inexpensive brand that is readily available at most retail outlets.

Eyebrows are so important and when they are done badly, they look awful.  Eyebrows can make you look mad, mean, or just plain scary when drawn on incorrectly.  On the flip side, when done right they can add definition and make your eyes and overall makeup look polished and pretty.

Milani Brow Tint Pen is the first step that I use when shaping and defining eyebrows.  I do not typically use this product by itself.  If you don’t have any eyebrows at all and you only use this, you will have a tattooed sort of look to your brows.  I don’t care for that look, but if you do, then you may not need any other steps or products on top of this.  If you have good brows and only need to fill in a small sparse area, then you may be able to use this on its own.

Colors:  Milani Brow Tint Pen comes in two colors:  Natural Taupe and Dark Brown.  I only use the Natural Taupe.  The Dark Brown is very dark and I would only use that on darker-skinned clients.  I would describe the Natural Taupe as more of a warm medium brown.  To me, taupe has a cool grey undertone and the Milani Brow Tint Pen in Natural Taupe is not a cool color.

Morning Review:  I draw on the eyebrow shape with the Milani Brow Tint Pen.  This is done by using lots of light-handed tiny short strokes to simulate eyebrow hairs in the direction of hair growth.  The nice small pointed tip makes this process easy.  You will not get good results if you press too hard.  Once the eyebrow shape is on and filled in, I then go over it with an eyebrow wax.  The third step is to then apply an eyebrow powder.  The final step is to set the eyebrows with a clear gel.  By using a combination of products, the eyebrows have dimension and look very natural rather than drawn on.

Evening Review:  After several hours Milani Brow Tint Pen did not smudge, fade, flake or cause any irritation issues.  I had to use an eye makeup remover designed for waterproof makeup to get all of the tint off after using my makeup wipes.

Overall Review:  Milani Brow Tint Pen performs quite well and is reasonably priced.

Comparable Product Dupe:  Milani Brow Tint Pen in Natural Taupe is comparable to NYX Eyebrow Marker in the color Medium.  The Milani Brow Tint Pen in the color Dark Brown is the same as the NYX Eyebrow Marker in the color Deep.  They look and perform exactly the same to me.  They are both made in Germany, the ingredients are identical, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they came from the same manufacturer.  Milani Brow Tint Pen costs approximately 25% less than NYX Eyebrow Marker depending upon the retailer.

Pros:

  • Easy to use
  • Stays on well
  • Lasts for quite a while without drying out
  • Inexpensive

Cons:

  • Need more colors available, especially cool tones

Helpful Tips & Tricks:

  • Make sure your skin is clean prior to application.
  • If you are using serum, sunscreen or moisturizer first, be sure it is fully absorbed, as this won’t adhere well to oily skin or products.
  • Use the lightest touch possible when applying and don’t press too hard.
  • The company recommends storing the Milani Brow Tint Pen in a horizontal position to maximize longevity.

Users: Milani Brow Tint Pen is suitable for the following users:

  • All users

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Evening Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 4 stars4 Stars;

Value Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Overall Rating = 4 stars4 Stars = Excellent.

(Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Milani Brow Tint Pen ColorsMilani Brow Tint Pen Package

Milani Brow Tint Pen and NYX Eyebrow Marker

Milani Brow Tint Pen and NYX Eyebrow Marker

Milani Brow Tint Pen and NYX Eyebrow Marker on Skin

Milani Brow Tint Pen and NYX Eyebrow Marker on Skin

Ingredients:  Water (Aqua), Alcohol, Glycerin, PVP, PEG/PPG-14/4 Dimethicone, Red 40 (CI 16035), Yellow 5 (CI 19140), Blue 1 (CI 42090).

Important:  Please read our full Disclaimer before using this or any product.

ELF Studio Cream Eyeliner

Product:  ELF Studio Cream Eyeliner.  This little pot of eyeliner is a beauty bargain.

Overall Rating = 4.25 Stars – Excellent

Cost: $3 for .17 oz. ($17.65 per ounce)  Price Category: Dirt Cheap

Sold By: elfcosmetics; Walgreen’s; Walmart; Retailers everywhere.

Container: Plastic jar with twist-off lid, outer carton.

Description: ELF Studio Cream Eyeliner is a water-resistant gel cream eyeliner in a little pot.  This eyeliner requires an eye makeup remover to effectively take all of it off.

Sensitivity:  ELF Studio Cream Eyeliner is a fragrance-free product suitable for those with sensitive eyes or contact lenses.  I have never experienced any sensitivity issues personally and I have never had any complaints from the hundreds of clients I have used this on.

Company Claims:  “The cream formula creates smooth lines that are defined and precise. Smudge-proof, budge-proof and water-resistant coverage for all day wear to combat against sweat, tears or rain! Achieve thin or bold lines with ease. Slanted Eyeliner Brush included.”

Discussion:  ELF, also known as e.l.f., stands for eyes-lips-face.  This is a very inexpensive brand that is sold at discount retailers and drug stores.  I’m sure a lot of you have never tried this brand because it is so cheap and you probably assume that for this price, it can’t possibly be any good.  I thought the same thing when I first saw this line, but I go through so much makeup I figured I’d give it a try.   If it ended up in the trash I didn’t spend much, so who cares, right?

I am a huge fan of gel and cream eyeliners.  They have great staying power and perform well under a variety of conditions such as hot lights and humidity.  It is also easy to achieve very dramatic looks with the deeply pigmented colors.

One reason that I use ELF Studio Cream Eyeliner is because gel and cream eyeliners do not last very long.  They dry out after a few months and need to be replaced.  If you are buying an eyeliner for $40, that quickly gets expensive if it needs to be replaced frequently.  You can replace ELF Studio Cream Eyeliner whenever you need to and it is not a big deal.  There is not much of a financial commitment here.

I also buy a lot of this eyeliner so that I can have one for each client and not have to use a sterile brush each time I dip into it, which saves me a lot of time.

Morning Review:  ELF Studio Cream Eyeliner has a very thick consistency.  The black is a deep rich black.  The brush that comes with the eyeliner is useless to me.  It is very short, the bristles are too thick, and it deposits way too much product onto the eyelid.  I prefer a much better quality brush with longer tapered bristles.  This little brush is better suited for eyebrows than eyeliner.

With a smaller more flexible brush, I find ELF Studio Cream Eyeliner is very easy to use.  I like to build up the desired color in layers.  You won’t be able to line your eyes in one swoop with this eyeliner like you can a liquid eyeliner.  You can also tightline with this if you don’t have extremely oily skin.  Since I have very dry skin, once this eyeliner sets on me, it does not go anywhere until I take it off.

Evening Review:  After several hours ELF Studio Cream Eyeliner did not smudge, fade, flake or cause any irritation issues.  I had to use an eye makeup remover designed for waterproof makeup to get all of the eyeliner off.

Overall Review:  ELF Studio Cream Eyeliner is not the world’s best eyeliner, but for the price, it cannot be beaten.  If you are new to gel eyeliners, this is a perfect one for you to practice with.

Pros:

  • Stays on well
  • Can be built up and layered
  • Very inexpensive

Cons:

  • May smudge on very oily skin
  • Is water resistant, not waterproof
  • The brush that comes with it is not useful.
  • Most of the fashion colors have been discontinued.

Helpful Tips & Tricks:

  • Keep the lid on the jar as much as possible.  While you are applying the eyeliner, turn the jar upside down onto a clean paper towel to prevent air from drying it out and to minimize contamination.
  • If you have extremely oily eyelids, always “set” your cream or gel eyeliner with an eye shadow in the same color as the eyeliner.
  • For a glossy extra-dramatic look you can apply a shiny wet-look liquid eyeliner on top of this.

Users:  ELF Studio Cream Eyeliner is suitable for the following users:

  • All users

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Evening Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 4 stars4 Stars;

Value Rating = 5 stars5 Stars;

Overall Rating = 4.25 Stars = Excellent.

(Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

ELF Studio Cream EyelinerELF Studio Cream Eyeliner BrushELF Studio Cream Eyeliner Applied On EyeELF Studio Cream Eyeliner

Ingredients:  Isododecane, Polyethylene, Polyisobutene, Barium Sulfate, Calcium Carbonate, Quaternium-18 Bentonite, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Tricontanyl PVP, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Propylene Carbonate, Calcium Sodium Borosilicate, Silica, Tin Oxide, Methylparaben, Propylparaben.

May Contain (Depending Upon Color): Mica, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499), DC Black #2 (CI 77266), Manganese Violet (CI 77742), Ultramarines (CI 77007).

Important:  Please read our full Disclaimer before using this or any product.

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Powder Eye Shadow

Product:  Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow.  Still searching for the perfect colors for a dramatic smoky-eye makeup look?  Lancôme has some great colors such as, Drape, It List, Riviera and The New Black.

Overall Rating = 3+ stars3.5 Stars – Very Good

Cost: $21.00 each (.42 oz.) ($50 per ounce)  Price Category: Expensive

Cost: $21.00 each (.20 oz.) ($105 per ounce)  Price Category: Expensive

Sold By: LancômeUSA; Dillard’s; Macy’s; Nordstrom; Major Department Stores.

Container:  Plastic container with swing-out lid, outer carton.

Description: Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow is a highly-pigmented powdered eye shadow with a nice silky finish.  You can also get palettes with several colors, but I’m only focusing on the single shadows today.  The shadows do not come with any type of applicator.  You do not need a separate eye makeup remover to take this off; it will come off with any standard facial cleanser.

Sensitivity:  Unlike most Lancôme products that are loaded with perfume, Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow is a fragrance-free product and is suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow does not make my nose run, eyes water, turn red or burn.  I have never experienced any sensitivities from using this eye shadow and I have never had any complaints from clients or testers.

Company Claims:  “Make a statement with these shadow singles designed by Lancôme Global makeup artists. Available in a variety of chic shades and finishes—from shimmer to sheen and metallic to matte—to complement every wardrobe. Lancôme’s Micro-aired technology promises effortless application and smooth-gliding color that’s beautifully blendable. The long-lasting, pigment-packed color stays true for daylong wear.”

“Benefits:

  • Color glides on smoothly and blends easily for a professional finish every time.
  • Color stays true and looks beautiful all day.

Technology:

  • Micro-aired powder
  • Ergonomically designed slide compact with see-through cover”

Discussion:  While not my favorite eye shadow, Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow is a close second to MAC and also has a lot of options available.

Colors:  Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow comes in 73 colors.  I decided to feature four that closely correspond to the MAC colors I previously reviewed that I typically use for smoky-eye looks.   These four colors are:

  • Drape (White) (Shimmer)
  • It List (Black) (Matte)
  • Riviera (Medium Grey) (Shimmer)
  • The New Black (Black) (Metallic)

Finishes:  Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow comes in four finishes ranging from a flat dull finish to a sparkly shine:

  • Matte
  • Satin
  • Shimmer
  • Metallic

Morning Review:  I suggest using a base medium or a primer under powdered eye shadows.  When you use a primer the colors will be a little more intense just like when you wet them and will last longer without fading or flaking.  If you do not use primer, the colors will not be as vibrant or deep and the finish will be softer.

I would say that the texture of the Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow is a little silkier and smoother than MAC.  It has a lighter feel to it when applying it to the eyelid.  You can layer these shadows for greater intensity.  I would not say that this is a positive or a negative trait; it is simply a little different.

If you want your smoky eye look to be suitable for daytime or on the subtle side, begin with the lightest shades and work your way to the darkest shades.  If you are going for a full-on glamorous dramatic look, then begin with the darkest shades and blend the lighter shades in.

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow glides on easily and does not tug or pull.  For this classic smoky look, I applied Drape on the inner corner and just under the tear duct. I put Riviera on the upper eyelid up to the crease line.  I then added The New Black onto the brow bone and under the lower lashes.  I then finished with It List at the outer corner.  You will see that this look has a slightly more shimmery effect than the MAC look.  That is because Lancôme does not make a matte white shadow.  The makeup was completed with eyeliner, mascara and false lashes.

Evening Review:  After many hours the Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadows have not faded, creased, or flaked and still look good without the need for any touch ups.

Overall Review:  Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow offers professional results and is easy to use.

Pros: 

  • Performance – Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow performs very well.  It has great staying power and is easy to blend.
  • Finish – If you like a more natural or sheer look, you may prefer these over MAC.

Cons:

  • Price – Each time I buy these shadows, the price goes up and the amount of product goes down, so they are getting more and more expensive.
  • Amount of Product – A few years ago this same shadow was called Color Focus and had .80 ounces. Then it went to .42 ounces and I recently only got .20 ounce in one color.  (See photos below for examples)  These are far too expensive for me to use on clients.  You will note that Lancôme no longer lists how much product is contained in these eye shadows on their website.  I even sent an email to customer service to find out if all of the eye shadow colors are now only going to have .20 ounces in them and was told they would have to research my question and get back to me!
  • Packaging – Also, rather than having a bunch of little containers, I prefer to put eye shadows in my own professional palette and I cannot do that with these.

Appropriate for the Following Users:  Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow is suitable for the following users:

  • All users

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Evening Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 4 stars4 Stars;

Value Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

Overall Rating = 3+ stars3.5 Stars = Very Good.

(Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow Drape

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow Drape

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow Drape

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow Drape

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow Riviera

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow Riviera

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow Riviera

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow Riviera

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow It List

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow It List

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow It List

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow It List

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow The New Black

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow The New Black

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow The New Black

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow The New Black

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow The New Black Package

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow The New Black Package

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow The New Black Reverse

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow The New Black Reverse

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow The New Black WithBox

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow The New Black With Box

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow Old Box With More Product

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow Old Box With More Product

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow New Box With Even Less Product

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow New Box With Even Less Product

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow Colors

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow Colors

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow Smoky Makeup

Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Smooth Hold Eye Shadow Smoky Makeup

Ingredients: TALC, MAGNESIUM STEARATE, TRIISOSTEARIN, PHENYL TRIMETHICONE, SYNTHETIC FLUORPHLOGOPITE, NYLON-12, CALCIUM ALUMINUM BOROSILICATE, CALCIUM SODIUM BOROSILICATE, DIMETHICONE, SILICA, TRIMETHYLSILOXYSILICATE, ALUMINA, SYNTHETIC WAX, POLYETHYLENE TEREPHTHALATE, CETYL DIMETHICONE, ISOBUTYLPARABEN, METHYLPARABEN, PHENOXYETHANOL, PROPYLPARABEN, ETHYLPARABEN, BUTYLPARABEN.

May Contain (Depending upon color and/or finish): CI 19140/YELLOW 5 LAKE, CI 42090/BLUE 1 LAKE, CI 75470/CARMINE, CI 77000/ALUMINUM POWDER, CI 77007/ULTRAMARINES, CI 77163/BISMUTH OXYCHLORIDE, CI 77288/CHROMIUM OXIDE GREENS, CI 77289/CHROMIUM HYDROXIDE GREEN, CI 77510/FERRIC AMMONIUM FERROCYANIDE, CI 77510/FERRIC FERROCYANIDE, CI 77742/MANGANESE VIOLET, CI 77891/TITANIUM DIOXIDE, CI 77947/ZINC OXIDE, MICA.

Important:  Please read our full Disclaimer before using this or any product.