Tag: Eye

IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer

Product:  IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer.  Have imperfections you need to cover?  Dark circles disappear with this heavy-duty full-coverage concealer.

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

Cost: $24.00 (.28 oz.) ($85.71 per ounce)  Price Category: Mid-range

Sold By:  IT Cosmetics; QVC; Ulta.

Container:  Plastic squeeze tube, twist-off cap, outer carton.

Description:  Bye Bye Undereye Concealer is an opaque, heavy waterproof concealer.  IT Cosmetics, of TV infomercial fame, is now part of the L’Oreal family.  L’Oreal acquired IT Cosmetics last year for 1.2 billion dollars.  (I guess they intend to sell a lot of concealer.)

Formula:  Bye Bye Undereye Concealer is a thick work-horse type of concealer.  If you like light and airy products, this is not the concealer for you.  If you need to conceal scars, blemishes, dark circles or tattoos, this dense cream might just do the trick.  The formula feels a little tacky so you will want to set this with powder if you are not applying foundation over it.  This does not contain light-diffusing agents.  If you prefer that look, IT also makes this concealer with a pearlescent quality from the addition of Mica, called  Bye Bye Undereye Illumination Anti-Aging Concealer.  I like the Illumination one for fair-skinned brides.

Sensitivity:  Bye Bye Undereye Concealer is fragrance free and is suitable for those with sensitive eyes, skin, or those who wear contacts.

Company Claims:

 “IT’s your 8 hours of sleep in a tube!™ Full Coverage Anti-Aging Waterproof Concealer”
“Why You’ll Love IT™…Developed with plastic surgeons, this best-selling, award-winning, cult-favorite waterproof concealer delivers highly pigmented, long-lasting coverage that won’t crease or crack. Infused with high-performance pigments and anti-aging peptides, vitamins, hydrolyzed collagen, hyaluronic acid and antioxidants, the game-changing formula improves the appearance of wrinkles and effectively conceals the look of skin imperfections including dark circles, bags, redness, hyperpigmentation, broken capillaries, age spots and discoloration. Finally, a multitasking, full-coverage concealer that makes your skin look younger!”

Discussion:  As a makeup artist there is probably no more important item in my kit than concealer.  My clients expect me to make them look better and everyone (except that one Swedish girl) has some sort of issues to conceal.  I have put makeup on thousands of faces and I’ve only seen one that had flawless skin.  I have tried hundreds of concealers, and while I don’t use this one every day, Bye Bye Undereye Concealer is the one I reach for when I need some serious coverage.

Colors:  Bye Bye Undereye Concealer comes in four colors:  Light, Medium, Tan and Deep.  The Deep is probably not dark enough for truly dark-skinned African Americans.  I use the Light on very fair-skinned clients or for brightening.  If necessary, you can mix two colors.  I included some color swatches and a color shade chart below.

Morning Review:  After cleansing, toning and moisturizing and/or priming, apply Bye Bye Undereye Concealer prior to the application of foundation.  A little goes a long way so start with a small drop of product.  If you need more, apply another layer.  It is better to build this up in thin layers than to start with one thick layer.  I apply this with a small concealer brush.  IT Cosmetics make a nice dual-ended brush that works well.  For a beauty bargain, ELF also makes a good inexpensive concealer brush.  A light dusting of a high definition micronized powder will keep this in place until you take it off.

Evening Review:  After many hours, Bye Bye Undereye Concealer does not budge.  It stays on without fading, creasing, or flaking.  As this product is waterproof, you will need a makeup remover to get it off completely.

Overall Review:  IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer works very well and covers most imperfections.  It is highly pigmented and very buildable for additional coverage.

Pros:

  • Thick cream covers well
  • Squeeze tube keeps product sanitary
  • Takes very little product to cover imperfections
  • Waterproof
  • Fragrance-free formula
  • Skin-friendly ingredients

Cons:

  • Slightly tacky finish must be set with powder
  • Some users may have difficulty finding the right shade.
  • This will not reduce the look of undereye bags as the manufacturer claims.
  • I have not seen any evidence that use of this will make you look younger over time. (Darn!)

Suitability:  IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer is suitable for the following users:

  • All users.  (This is a very good product for men to use as well as women.  I use this on male models, actors and performers.)
  • I have also used this on severely wrinkled and aged skin with good results.

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Evening Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 4 stars4 Stars;

Value Rating = 3 stars3 Stars;

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

Would Buy Again?  Yes.

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

IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye ConcealerIT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer BoxIT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer TipIT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer Color SwatchesIT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer Color Chart

Before IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer

Before IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer

After IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer

After IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer

Ingredients:  Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Bis-Diglyceryl Polyacyladipate-2, VP/Hexadecene Copolymer, Cetyl Alcohol, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Ozokerite, Phenoxyethanol, Aqua/Water/Eau, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Tocopherol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Cholesteryl Nonanoate, Cholesteryl Oleyl Carbonate, Cholesteryl Chloride, Chrysin, Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Collagen, N-Hydroxysuccinimide, Niacinamide, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Retinyl Palmitate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Steareth-20. May Contain: Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77492, CI 77491, CI 77499).

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

Almay 16 Hr Crayon Contour Eyeliner

6 Comments

Product:  Almay 16 Hr Crayon Contour Eyeliner.  This simple beauty staple never lets me down.

Overall Rating = 4 stars4 Stars – Excellent.

Cost:  $6.74 (.10 oz.) ($67.40 per ounce)  Price Category: Inexpensive

Sold By:  Almay; Target; Ulta; Walgreen’s; Walmart; Retailers everywhere.

Container:  Plastic tube, automatic twist-up pencil, built-in sharpener; snap cap.

Description:  Almay 16 Hr Crayon Contour Eyeliner is an automatic retractable eyeliner pencil.  Depending upon your facial cleanser you may or may not need to use an eye makeup remover.

Formula:  This is a semi-creamy formula.  It can be smudged a little.  To avoid smudging for long-term wear, it should be set with powder.

Sensitivity:  Almay 16 Hr Crayon Contour Eyeliner is hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and is suitable for those with sensitive eyes or contacts.

Company Claims:

“Define your eyes with beautiful color that lasts up to 16 hours. Water-resistant, long-lasting, smudge-proof formula stays true and stays put. Formulated with vitamin E to nourish and protect your delicate eye area. Built-in sharpener keeps point sharp for precise definition.”

Discussion:  Almay was invented in 1931 when chemist Alfred Woititz began making cosmetics for his wife, Fanny May, who was allergic to makeup.  I have been using Almay products my entire life.  I have severe fragrance allergies and Almay was the first entirely fragrance-free cosmetics line.  For many years this was the only brand of eye makeup I could wear.

An eyeliner pencil may seem like a boring product, but if someone told me I could only have one makeup product for the rest of my life, it would be an eyeliner pencil.  With a brown eyeliner pencil I could define my eyebrows, line my eyes and even add color to my lips.

Colors:  Almay 16 Hr Crayon Contour Eyeliner comes in three matte colors: Black, Black/Brown, and Brown.  There are four additional pearlescent colors that are sold under the name Almay Intense i-Color Eyeliner.  Those colors are: Purple Amethyst, Brown Topaz, Black Pearl and Raisin Quartz.  (Try a black on the upper lashes and a color on the lowers.)

Please Note:  If you have hypersensitive eyes, you may need to stay away from the Almay Intense i-Color Eyeliner in the colors Purple Amethyst or Raisin Quartz as they contain Carmine and some people are sensitive to Carmine.  (I have worn both of these colors with no ill effects and Carmine does not bother me at all, but there are reports of sensitivity to these two colors by some users.)

Morning Review:  I apply pencil eyeliner after curling lashes, primer and before any other eye makeup.  The Almay 16 Hr Crayon Contour Eyeliner is a retractable pencil so you just twist up what you need.  Unlike some pencils that cannot be twisted back down, this one can.  The pencil is a medium to thick diameter so if you want a thinner line you will need to use the little pull-out sharpener that is in the bottom of the pencil.

As far as the formula goes, the pencil is semi-creamy and glides on easily without tugging.  This is a good eyeliner for a classic everyday look.  I use this eyeliner on the upper lash line as well as the lower lash line.  If you are going for a heavy smoky, smudged look, you can layer with this pencil.  If you are going for an extreme winged cat-eye look, this will not make fine lines at the corner and you will get better results with a marker or gel eyeliner.  I also prefer a waterproof gel for tightlining or using on the waterline.

Helpful Tips/Tricks:

  • Do not twist the pencil up too far when you sharpen it or you will break it.
  • To avoid smudging, always set your pencil eyeliner with a powdered eye shadow in the same color as the eyeliner. This is especially important if you have oily skin.

Evening Review:  Almay 16 Hr Crayon Contour Eyeliner stays on well.  After many hours there was no smudging.  This did not come off with my regular facial cleanser, but it did come off easily with eye makeup remover or my makeup wipes.

Overall Review:  Almay 16 Hr Crayon Contour Eyeliner is easy to use, long lasting and does not irritate my hypersensitive eyes.

Pros:

  • Deep rich color
  • Applies quickly and easily
  • Stays on for many hours without smudging
  • Does not require a separate sharpener
  • Hypoallergenic formula does not cause any irritation
  • Readily available at local retailers
  • Inexpensive

Cons:

  • Sometimes the outer cap cracks (I have had this happen twice recently.)

Suitability:  Almay 16 Hr Crayon Contour 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 = 4 stars4 Stars;

Overall Rating = 4 stars4 Stars = Excellent.

Would Buy Again?  Yes, definitely.

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

Almay 16 Hr Crayon Contour EyelinerAlmay 16 Hr Crayon Contour Eyeliner

Almay 16 Hr Crayon Contour Eyeliner Sharpener

Almay 16 Hr Crayon Contour Eyeliner Sharpener

Almay 16 Hr Crayon Contour Eyeliner Swatch

Almay 16 Hr Crayon Contour Eyeliner Classic Everyday Look

Almay 16 Hr Crayon Contour Eyeliner Classic Everyday Look

Ingredients:  Cyclomethicone, Synthetic Beeswax, Arachidyl Behenate, Microcrystalline Wax, Quaternium-18 Hectorite, Mineral Oil, Propylene Carbonate, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, BHT. May Contain: Iron Oxides, Titanium Dioxide, Mica, Ultramarines, Chromium Oxide Greens, Ferric Ferrocyanide, Aluminum Powder, Bismuth Oxychloride, Bronze Powder, Carmine, Chromium Hydroxide Green, Copper Powder, Manganese Violet, Zinc Oxide.

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.

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.

Tarte Clean Slate 360 Creaseless 12-Hour Smoothing Eye Primer

Product:  Tarte Clean Slate 360 Creaseless 12-Hour Smoothing Eye Primer.  Is this the best eye primer to keep your makeup from fading or melting?

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

Cost: $20.00 (.39 fl. oz.) ($51.28 per ounce)  Price Category: Expensive

Sold By: Sephora; Ulta.

Container: Plastic squeeze tube with outer twist-off cap, outer carton.

Most eye primers come in glass tubes with wands like lip gloss.  I don’t buy those because once you touch the wand to skin the product is contaminated and there is a lot of wasted product that you can’t get out of the inflexible glass tube.  I prefer the packaging of this Tarte Clean Slate 360 Creaseless 12-Hour Smoothing Eye Primer.  The flexible plastic tube limits air exposure, contamination and allows you to squeeze out every last drop so there is no waste.

Description:  Tarte Clean Slate 360 Creaseless 12-Hour Smoothing Eye Primer is a fragrance-free primer that is intended to be used under powdered eye shadows.

Tarte is known for their products that are primarily made from Amazonian clay.  Their tagline is “high-performance naturals”.  I first became interested in this brand because they are environmentally and animal friendly.  As an added bonus, most of their products also perform quite well, some better than others.

Sensitivity:  Tarte Clean Slate 360 Creaseless 12-Hour Smoothing Eye Primer is a fragrance-free product and is suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

Tarte Clean Slate 360 Creaseless 12-Hour Smoothing Eye Primer does not make my nose run, eyes water, turn red or burn.  I have never experienced any sensitivities from using this eye primer and I have never had any complaints from the numerous clients I have used this on.

Company Claims:  “This primer acts as a smudge-proof base for shadow while preventing fallout and migration of color. The universal shade glides on easily and powers through the day into the evening for 12 hours of perfect wear.”  and

“360 Degree Creaseless can be used as both a shadow primer and under eye base to smooth areas around the eye giving you a seamless application and all around 360 degree eye solutions.”

“Key Claims and Benefits:

  • Waterproof 12-hour wear
  • Dermatologist tested
  • Enriched with Vitamin E”

Discussion:  Should you bother with an eye shadow primer?  Will it really make in any difference in the way the eye makeup looks or in how long the eye makeup will stay on?  Yes, most definitely.  This is especially important for anyone with oily eyelids where makeup will melt off within an hour.  An eye shadow primer will intensify the color of the shadow, make the application appear smoother, and add longevity to the makeup look.

Eye primers are not thick like eye gel creams, or concealers.  The consistency is closer to a lotion or thick serum.  Most are tinted to match your skin, some have a pearly nacreous luster, and some are shimmery and glittery.  I prefer primers that disappear but leave a texture that acts like a two-sided piece of tape: the primer adheres to eyelids while keeping the eye makeup on top from fading or maneuvering into your eyelid crease.  A good eye primer can replace a concealer over the lid and even out skin tone and texture.

Colors:  Unlike other eye primers, Tarte Clean Slate 360 Creaseless 12-Hour Smoothing Eye Primer only comes in one color.  I have used this on fair-skinned to dark-skinned clients.  It works for all skin tones.

Morning Review:  Tarte Clean Slate 360 Creaseless 12-Hour Smoothing Eye Primer is a white- colored cream that has no color once it is applied onto the eyelid.  Most eye primers are flesh-toned like Caucasian skin.  Since I apply makeup to all races, I prefer a product that is colorless.  The other benefit to a colorless product is that it will not alter the color of the eye shadows that are being applied on top of it.

The primer has no fragrance and simply has a light chemical smell that completely disappears once the product dries.  I don’t experience any adverse effects from the scent.  A drop of about 1/8 teaspoon is enough for both eyes.  This product actually works best if you do not use too much.  I always let the primer set for at least 60 seconds before applying shadows.  Usually I just apply the primer, do my brows, and then go back to the eyes to give the primer a chance to dry.  Once it dries, the skin on my eyelids actually looks a feels smoother.  It dries to a slightly powdery finish, so this is only good under powdered eye shadows.  Don’t try to use this under a cream or gel eye shadow or it will cause streaking.

This is the primer that I used under the MAC Powder Eye Shadows that I recently reviewed.  You can take a look at that review if you want to see the colors I used.

Evening Review:  Many hours later my eye makeup still looks perfect and nothing has faded, melted, flaked, or settled into the crease of my eyes.  Tarte Clean Slate 360 Creaseless 12-Hour Smoothing Eye Primer definitely makes a difference in how long eye makeup will stay on without the need for touch-ups.

Overall Review:  I have tried dozens of eye primers ranging in price from $1 to $78 and this is the one I prefer to use.  This one outperforms all of the other eye primers I have tested.  I have used this on young girls with very oily skin and elderly clients with very dry skin and it has proven effective with all skin types.

Pros:  Tarte Clean Slate 360 Creaseless 12-Hour Smoothing Eye Primer has a lot of good qualities:

  • Professional quality performace
  • Works great with powdered eye shadows
  • No sensitivity issues
  • Works effectively on all skin types from very oily to very dry
  • Packaging system keeps product sanitary and allows full usage of the contents
  • Good for all skin types

Cons:

  • This is not good to use under cream eye shadows.
  • I have a difficult time finding this product in stock and have to order it online.

Tarte Clean Slate 360 Creaseless 12-Hour Smoothing Eye Primer 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.)

Tarte Clean Slate 360 Creaseless 12-Hour Smoothing Eye Primer Package

Eye Shadow With and Without Tarte Clean Slate 360 Creaseless 12-Hour Smoothing Eye Primer

Eye Shadow Without and With Tarte Clean Slate 360 Creaseless 12-Hour Smoothing Eye Primer

Eye Shadow Over Tarte Clean Slate 360 Creaseless 12-Hour Smoothing Eye Primer

Eye Shadow Over Tarte Clean Slate 360 Creaseless 12-Hour Smoothing Eye Primer

Eye Shadow Over Tarte Clean Slate 360 Creaseless 12-Hour Smoothing Eye Primer

Eye Shadow Over Tarte Clean Slate 360 Creaseless 12-Hour Smoothing Eye Primer

Ingredients: Isododecane, Mica, VP/Eicosene Copolymer, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Dimethicone, Propylene Carbonate, Cera Alba/Beeswax/ Cire D’abeille, PEG-40 Stearate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Phenoxyethanol, Boron Nitride, Tocopheryl Acetate, Tocopherol, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Bismuth Oxychloride (CI 77163), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499).
Formulated Without:  Parabens, Sulfates, Synthetic Fragrances, Petrochemicals, Phthalates, GMOs, Triclosan.

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

MAC Powder Eye Shadow

Product:  MAC Powder Eye Shadow.  Do you need the perfect colors for a smoky-eye makeup look?  Today we’ll take a look at M-A-C Black-Tied, Carbon, Gesso and Knight Divine eye shadows.

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

Cost: $6.00 by itself (.05 oz.) ($120 per ounce)  Price Category: Mid-range

Cost: $16.00 in package (.04 oz.) ($400 per ounce)  Price Category: Expensive

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

Container: Either a separate metal pan that you place into your own palette or a standard eye shadow in a plastic container with an attached flip-top lid and outer box.

Description:  MAC, also known as M-A-C (which stands for Make-up-Art-Cosmetics) is owned by the cosmetics giant, Estée Lauder.  This is a mid-range to high-end brand that is frequently counterfeited so be sure to purchase your MAC products from a reputable retailer.  MAC was originally developed for makeup professionals and was not intended to be a retail brand, but it is now one of the largest retail makeup brands in the world.

MAC Powder Eye Shadow is a highly-pigmented powdered eye shadow that comes in separate metal pans that you can add to your own case or you can buy the colors separately in a little plastic case.  The case will cost you an extra $10 each.  The eye shadow does not come with an applicator and you will need your own brush.  You do not need a separate eye makeup remover to take this off.

Sensitivity:  MAC Powder Eye Shadow is a fragrance-free product and is suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

MAC Powder 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 the hundreds of clients I have used this on.

Company Claims:  “Highly pigmented powder. Applies evenly, blends well. Can be used wet or dry. Available in a wide variety of textures and finishes.”

“Key Claims and Benefits:

  • Dermatologist tested
  • Ophthalmologist tested
  • Non-acnegenic
  • Safe for contact lens wearers
  • Can be used wet or dry”

Discussion:  I have been using MAC Powder Eye Shadow for most of my career, which spans decades.  Because of all of the available options with these shadows, you are only limited by your own imagination and creativity.

Colors:  MAC Powder Eye Shadow comes in every color of the rainbow.  There are too many colors to count, so I decided to simply feature four that I typically use for smoky-eye looks.  Today I am discussing four colors from the Grey + Black color spectrum.  These colors are:

  • Black Tied (Velvet)
  • Carbon (Matte)
  • Gesso (Matte)
  • Knight Divine (Veluxe Pearl)

Finishes:  Not only do MAC Powder Eye Shadows come in every conceivable color, but they also come in a variety of finishes from a dull non-reflective Matte2 to a super-shiny frost they call Lustre.  Here is the array of finishes:

  • F: Frost. An iridescent shine that adds a highlight to any color.
  • L: Lustre. Smoothly pearlized and intensely frosted with a deluxe ultrafine conditioned finish.
  • M: Matte. High-color payoff with a no-shine matte finish.
  • M2: Matte2. An intense, opaque-matte finish with exceptionally rich color payoff.
  • S: Satin. Pure color in a satin-style finish with a soft, subtle, nonfrost, light-refractive sheen.
  • VLX: Veluxe. A superfine, pigment rich and very luxe finish that is silky, smooth and matte.
  • VP: Veluxe Pearl. Vibrantly toned, velvety soft, shimmering metallic finish overlaid with high-shine pearl.
  • V: Velvet. A soft-look finish with high-color intensity and a plush, velvety look and feel. Some Velvet finish colors also contain metallic shimmers that are slightly less shiny than the Frost finish.

Morning Review:  Today I’m going to apply the MAC Powder Eye Shadows over a primer.  When you use a primer the colors will be a little more intense and will have more staying power.  If you do not use primer, the colors will not be as vibrant or deep and the finish will be a little more sheer.

To prevent contamination I never touch my fingers to my eye shadows and only use a freshly-sterilized brush or disposable foam applicator.  If you want an intense concentration of color, you can wet your brush with sterile eye drops first.  Any wet areas should be applied last.

For the daytime look, I applied Gesso on the inner corner, just under the eye and on the brow bone underneath the eyebrow as a highlighter. I put Knight Divine on the upper eyelid up to the crease line, and added a little Carbon at the outer corner and under the lower lashes.  I then finished the rest of the eye makeup using several other products (gel eyeliner, mascara, lashes, brow products, etc.)  For a slightly more dramatic evening look I added Black Tied on the upper eyelid, a little more Carbon in the crease, and a heavier cat-eye liner.

Evening Review:  After many hours the MAC Powder Eye Shadows have not faded, creased, or flaked and still look good without the need for any touch ups.

Overall Review:

Pros:  MAC Powder Eye Shadow is a staple for many professional makeup artists like myself.  We use these eye shadows because they perform well and there are so many options available.  Yes, they cost more than some brands, but they aren’t expensive if you have your own container to put them in.  A little goes a long way and they last a long time.

Cons:  It is too bad that this is one of the most counterfeited products in the marketplace.  A lot of people sell fake products, so if you bought this from an auction site or reseller and did not like it, chances are you did not get the real thing.

MAC Powder 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 = 3 stars3 Stars;

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

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

MAC Powder Eye Shadow Black Tied

MAC Powder Eye Shadow Black Tied

MAC Powder Eye Shadow Carbon

MAC Powder Eye Shadow Carbon

MAC Powder Eye Shadow Knight Divine

MAC Powder Eye Shadow Knight Divine

MAC Powder Eye Shadow Gesso

MAC Powder Eye Shadow Gesso

MAC Powder Eye Shadow Black Tied Package

MAC Powder Eye Shadow Black Tied Package

MAC Powder Eye Shadow Black Tied Box

MAC Powder Eye Shadow Black Tied Box

MAC Powder Eye Shadow Daytime Look

MAC Powder Eye Shadow Evening Look

MAC Powder Eye Shadow Evening Look

Ingredients:  Talc, Zinc Stearate, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Isostearyl Neopentanoate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Silica, Mica.

May Contain:  The following compounds are coloring agents and may be present, depending on the particular shade of eyeshadow you have chosen: titanium dioxide (Cl 77891), iron oxides (Cl 77491, Cl 77492, Cl 77499), bismuth oxychloride (Cl 77163), blue 1 lake (Cl 42090), carmine (Cl 75470), chromium hydroxide green (Cl 77289), chromium oxide greens (Cl 77288), ferric ferrocyanide (Cl 77510), manganese violet (Cl 77742), red 40 lake (Cl 16035), ultramarines (Cl 77007), yellow 5 lake (Cl 19140).

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

L’Oreal Infallible Eye Shadow Crayon

Product:  L’Oreal Infallible Eye Shadow Crayon.  Do you have trouble getting your eye shadow to stay on?  If so, this will definitely help.

Overall Rating = 4 stars4 Stars – Excellent

Cost: $7.99 (.10 oz.) Price Category: Inexpensive

Sold By: L’Oreal Paris USA.

Container: Plastic tube outer housing, separate plastic cap, blister package or wrap.

Description:  L’Oreal Infallible Eye Shadow Crayon is a gel eye shadow in a crayon or stick form.  This is not an automatic twist-up crayon.  You will need to have a separate sharpener for this one.

L’Oreal Infallible Eye Shadow Crayon is fragrance-free and is suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

The company claims, “Highly pigmented vibrant color.  2 in 1 Shadow and Liner.  Smooth Glide formula that lasts up to 24 H.  This ultra-intense smudge-proof eye crayon lasts from dawn until dusk and beyond, up to a full 24 hours. The smooth, creamy, long-wearing formula delivers easy-to-wear colour for any occasion.  It’s now easy to create endless runway-inspired, colorful eye looks with just one product.  Blend multiple colors together or use them individually for a monochromatic look.”

Discussion:  I love a dramatic smoky-eye look.  As a professional makeup artist, sometimes you have hours to perfect a look and sometimes you only have a few minutes.  When I need to create a smoky eye quickly, this is one crayon that helps me get the job done in a flash.  I use this under powdered eye shadows to make them last, make the colors pop, and for cut creases. L’Oreal Infallible Eye Shadow Crayon can be used both as a thick eyeliner and an eye shadow base.

These crayons used to come in a full line of matte colors as well as the shimmery ones.  Unfortunately, the matte colors have been discontinued and now only the eight shimmers remain.  (Why is it that every time I find something I like it gets discontinued?)  I have attached a photo of the eight colors that are still available.

Morning Review:  Today I’m using the L’Oreal Infallible Eye Shadow Crayon in color number 704 (Midnight Charcoal).  I don’t use a primer under this unless the client has very oily skin.  This glides on easily and does not tug on the delicate eye skin.  I applied this on the upper eyelid up to the crease line.  I like to apply this eye shadow with a medium brush rather than directly from the crayon.  I also drew a v-shape line at the outer corner and extended it slightly under the lower lashes.  You can smudge this for about 30 seconds until it sets.  I applied a charcoal shadow on top of the crayon cream.  I then finished the rest of the eye makeup using several other products (mascara, eyeliner, eyebrows, lashes, etc.)

Evening Review:  After eight hours, the eye shadow looks the same as when I applied it this morning without the need for any touch ups.  L’Oreal Infallible Eye Shadow Crayon really makes the eye shadow stay put without fading or melting away.

Because L’Oreal Infallible Eye Shadow Crayon stays on so well, you will need to use an eye makeup remover to get it all off.  This will not rinse off with just ordinary facial cleanser.

Overall Review:  This is one product that performs just as the company claims it does.  They got it right this time.

When I use L’Oreal Infallible Eye Shadow Crayon my nose does not run, and my eyes do not water, turn red or burn.  I have never experienced any sensitivities from using these crayons and I have never had any complaints from the numerous clients I have used these on.

Pros:  This is an excellent product that serves numerous purposes.  L’Oreal Infallible Eye Shadow Crayon is easy to use for a makeup novice and performs well for pros like myself.

Cons:  I wish it still came in the matte colors and I would prefer an automatic crayon that does not need to be sharpened.  Also, I wish I could find this in more stores without having to order it online.

L’Oreal Infallible Eye Shadow Crayon is suitable for the following users:

  • All users
  • Users with extremely oily skin may need to use an oil-blocking primer first.

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.)

L’Oreal Infallible Eye Shadow Crayon Midnight Charcoal 704L’Oreal Infallible Eye Shadow Crayon Midnight Charcoal 704 TipL’Oreal Infallible Eye Shadow Crayon ColorsL’Oreal Infallible Eye Shadow Crayon With Additional Makeup

Ingredients:  ISODODECANE CYCLOPENTASILOXANE PEG/PPG-19/19 DIMETHICONE SYNTHETIC WAX HYDROGENATED POLYDICYCLOPENTADIENE NYLON-12 C20-40 ALCOHOLS PERFLUORONONYL DIMETHICONE POLYETHYLENE TEREPHTHALATE SILICA POLYGLYCERYL-4 DIISOSTEARATE/POLYHYDROXYSTEARATE/SEBACATE CALCIUM SODIUM BOROSILICATE POLYETHYLENE DIMETHICONE/VINYL DIMETHICONE CROSSPOLYMER PENTAERYTHRITYL TETRA-DI-T-BUTYL HYDROXYHYDROCINNAMATE POLYURETHANE-11 TIN OXIDE [+/- MAY CONTAIN / PEUT CONTENIR MICA CI 77891 / TITANIUM DIOXIDE CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499 / IRON OXIDES CI 77007 / ULTRAMARINES CI 77510 / FERRIC FERROCYANIDE CI 42090 / BLUE 1 LAKE CI 77288 / CHROMIUM OXIDE GREENS CI 75470 / CARMINE CI 77000 / ALUMINUM POWDER].

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

IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner

Product:  IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner.  Does IT perform as well as IT is advertised?

Overall Rating = 2+ stars4.25 Stars for Effectiveness – 2 Stars for Issues = 2.25 Stars – Just Okay

Cost: $22 for .17 oz. ($129.41 per ounce)  Price Category: Expensive

Sold By:  IT Cosmetics; QVC; Ulta.

Container: Plastic automatic twist-up pencil, removable cap, sharpener, outer carton.

Description:  IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner is a waterproof gel eyeliner in a pencil form as opposed to a little pot.  This eyeliner requires an eye makeup remover to effectively take all of it off.

IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner is a fragrance-free product suitable for those with sensitive eyes or contact lenses.

Warning:  You have probably seen or heard of this brand from QVC, a TV shopping network, or from the Guthey-Renker infomercial.  A word of advice… if you do decide to give this brand a try, I recommend purchasing from QVC or Ulta.  If you fall for the infomercial like I did, you’ll be in for a rude awakening.  IT Cosmetics advertises a $39.95 (5-piece) or $49.95 (7-piece) offer, but when the shipment arrives, your credit card has been billed $119.00.  Nowhere are you informed that buying the initial offer also signs you up for an automatic shipment program and other membership charges you did not agree to.  Then you have to go through the hassle of refuting charges, you’re out shipping fees, etc.  Okay, you have been warned.

Claims:  The company states, “IT’s eye opening! Waterproof automatic pencil infused with skin loving hydrolyzed silk, collagen, peptides and anti-oxidants.”

Discussion:  Eyeliners come in the following formulas and they each have their pros, cons, and various uses:

  • Dry cake that you add water to
  • Wax-based wooden pencil that you sharpen
  • Wax-based automatic pencil that you twist up
  • Water-based liquid eyeliner
  • Waterproof liquid eyeliner
  • Cream in a pan or a pot
  • Gel in a pot
  • Gel in an automatic pencil that you twist up (IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner )

I immediately became a fan of gels when they were introduced over a decade ago.  A gel goes on like a cream, but then after one to two minutes, it dries and sets making it very long lasting.  At least that is true for dry to consistent skin.  Users with very oily skin may not have such great results.  Sadly, oily skin is not a friend to most types of eye makeup.

Please Note:  I will be posting an in-depth discussion of the various types of eyeliners and how to select the right type for your needs on the Help page.  Please stay tuned for that post.  If you want to know when updates are posted, please tell us in the  Comments section below.

Morning Review:  This is a difficult product for me to review.  Read on and you’ll understand why.  The first time I used IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner it went on like a dream.  I found the formula to be smooth, the color a nice deep black, and once it dried it seemed to be budge proof.  Before it dries, you can smudge it if you choose for a smoky look, or you can leave the line intact for a sharper look.

Had I only used it once and then written a review, my review would have given it 4 or even 5 stars.  Thankfully, I used this many times (or attempted to), before offering this review.  Otherwise, I would definitely be going back to revise my rating.

Evening Review:  After several hours IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner did not smudge, fade, flake or cause any irritation issues.  I used an eye makeup remover designed for waterproof makeup and it came off easily.  Sounds great, right?

So, what are the problems with IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner?

  • Even though I kept the product tightly capped and even stored it in the original box, after only two weeks it began to dry out and went from a smooth application to dry and tugging on my eyelids.
  • After one month the eyeliner was so dried out that it was unusable.
  • In order to get rid of the dry exterior, the pencil needs to be sharpened after every couple of uses, which wastes a lot of product (that is when you can actually get it to sharpen).
  • The built-in sharpener (in the end) that comes with the eyeliner causes product loss and breakage. As if that isn’t bad enough, the IT Cosmetics website offers conflicting advice to other users who have complained about this same issue.  (I posted actual text from their website below.)

Overall Review:  IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner is great at first and then quickly turns into a dried-out unusable product.  If you use eyeliner every day and are okay with buying a new one every month, then this may be a very  good eyeliner for you.  If you are an occasional user, this will be a waste for you.

It is a shame that this eyeliner did not last longer as it has some beneficial ingredients for the skin and at first it was an impressive product.  With some tweaking of the formula to keep it from drying out so quickly this could be one of the best gel eyeliners in a stick form.

Helpful Tips & Tricks:

  • Always “set” your pencil, cream, or gel eyeliner with an eyeshadow in the same color as the eyeliner.
  • For a glossy extra-dramatic look, apply gel eyeliner, eyeshadow, then liquid eyeliner.
  • Always apply liquid eyeliner after your eyeshadow or the eyeshadow will get on the eyeliner and make it dull.

Users:  IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner is suitable for the following users:

  • All users (provided you don’t mind buying the product frequently)

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 2 stars4 Stars for effectiveness – 2 Stars for drying out so quickly = 2 Stars;

Evening Rating = 2 stars4 Stars for effectiveness – 2 Stars for drying out so quickly = 2 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 3 stars3 Stars (They only used it once.);

Value Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

Overall Rating = 2+ stars2.25 Stars = Just Okay.

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

IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner

IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Pencil

IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Sharpener

IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Built-in Sharpener

IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Sharpener Issue 1IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Sharpener Issue 2

Ingredients: BLACK: TRIMETHYLSILOXYSILICATE, ISOHEXADECANE, ISODODECANE, POLYETHYLENE, SYNTHETIC WAX, SILICA, CERESIN, POLYISOBUTENE, METHICONE, ROSA CANINA FLOWER OIL, ARGANIA SPINOSA KERNEL OIL, BUTYROSPERMUM PARKII BUTTER, PALMITOYL HEXAPEPTIDE-12, PERSEA GRATISSIMA (AVOCADO) OIL, PRUNUS AVIUM (SWEET CHERRY) SEED OIL, PRUNUS DOMESTICA SEED OIL, SIMMONDSIA CHINENSIS (JOJOBA) SEED OIL, TOCOPHERYL ACETATE, VITIS VINIFERA (GRAPE) SEED OIL, CHOLESTEROL, COLLAGEN, HYALURONIC ACID, HYDROLYZED SILK, RETINYL PALMITATE, TOCOPHEROL, ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, OLEA EUROPAEA LEAF EXTRACT, PUNICA GRANATUM EXTRACT, CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, CHAMOMILLA RECUTITA (MATRICARIA) FLOWER EXTRACT, IRON OXIDE (CI 77499).

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

Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover

2 Comments

Product:  Today’s we are reviewing Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover.  Is this product as effective as the more expensive brands?

Overall Rating = 4 stars4 Stars – Excellent

Cost:   $5.82 for 5.5 oz. ($1.06 per fluid ounce)  Price Category:  Inexpensive

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

Container:  Plastic bottle with screw-off cap

Description:   This is a clear liquid remover for all forms of eye makeup.  According to the manufacturer it is, “effective and gentle”, “removes even waterproof mascara” with “no oily residue”.  It also claims to be “Dermatologist Developed”.  This is a fragrance-free product.

I was first introduced to Neutrogena products as a teenager, so needless to say I’ve had a lot of experience with this brand.  (I haven’t been a teenager for a long time.)  The Neutrogena brand began in 1930 in Switzerland, came to the USA in the 1950’s and was acquired by Johnson & Johnson in 1994 when it became a worldwide brand.

I’m going to be putting some Neutrogena products through some comparison tests to see if they can perform as well as products costing many times more.

Everyone who wears eye makeup needs a good remover that doesn’t burn, sting, and leave an oily film on their eyes or skin.  The Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover, just like the Lancôme Bi-Facil, is a dual-phase product.  It contains a lipid layer (slippery-feeling cleansing layer) and a water layer.  The product must be shaken well prior to use to combine the two layers.  If you insert a cotton swap into the bottle without shaking first you will just get the oily-feeling lipid layer.  When the product is left standing still you can see the lipid layer rise to the top just as you will with an oil-and-vinegar salad dressing.  When shaken, the product changes from two clear liquid layers to one milky-colored liquid.

Morning Review:  I like to use this product with a sterile fresh cotton swab each time.  To keep your product sterile, don’t put your fingers on top of the bottle and keep it tightly capped when not in use.  A little goes a long way.  This remover does have a very slight oily feel to it, but the consistency is closer to water than oil.  There is almost no scent.  The primary ingredient that I smell is aloe vera.  This remover effectively removes all eye makeup, including waterproof mascara and gel eyeliner.  It does not burn or sting my eyes or make them water.  The remover is quickly absorbed into the skin and does not leave an oily residue.  It leaves the skin around my eyes feeling smooth.  I always rinse off any eye makeup remover prior to the application of skin-care and makeup products and I recommend you do the same.

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars

Evening Review:  I decided to really put this remover to a test.  In the morning I put on a heavy eye makeup complete with concealer, primer, multiple eye shadows, gel eyeliner, liquid eyeliner and waterproof mascara.  Several hours later I then removed the makeup from one eye with Lancôme Bi-Facil and the makeup from the other eye with the Neutrogena remover.  They both performed exactly the same.  It took the same amount of product to remove the makeup, which was two double-ended cotton swabs for each eye.  (If you have a problem with cotton fibers getting into your eyes, you can use disposable foam applicators instead of cotton swabs or you can put a little remover onto a makeup wipe.)  I did not have to tug or scrub to remove the makeup.  They both worked effectively at removing all traces of eye makeup including stubborn and difficult-to-remove products.   My makeup wipes did not find any traces of eye makeup.  The skin around my eyes did not feel tight or irritated, and in fact, it felt soft and hydrated.

The primary difference was that my nose was running due to the fragrance in the Lancôme Bi-Facil and that does not happen when I just use the Neutrogena remover.  Also, the Neutrogena absorbed into my skin faster than the Lancôme Bi-Facil did.  Since I rinse it off anyway, this is not much of a factor, but there was slightly less oily residue with the Neutrogena.

Overall Review:  Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover is an excellent eye makeup remover for all skin types and is gentle enough for those with contact lenses.  This is a good product to use if you have fragrance allergies.  This remover is suitable for both women and men.  It is very affordable and readily available at most retailers.

If you see negative reviews for this product and complaints that it is too oily, I suspect that is due to the fact that the users did not shake it prior to application.  The layers must be combined for the product to work effectively.

This remover is suitable for the following skin types:

  • All ethnicities;
  • All ages;
  • All sexes;
  • Dry;
  • Sensitive;
  • Consistent;
  • Oily;
  • Combination.

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 Eye Makeup Remover

Ingredients:  Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Cyclohexasiloxane, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (Aloe Vera), Benzyl Alcohol, Sodium Chloride, Dipropylene Glycol, Poloxamer 182, Allantoin (Comfrey Root), Tripotassium EDTA, Benzalkonium Chloride Solution, Glycerin, Cucumber (Cucumis Sativus) Fruit Extract, Potassium Phosphate, Dipotassium Phosphate.

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

Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover

Product:  Today’s product is Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover.  Does this product do all that it claims?

Overall Rating = 2+ stars2.75 Stars – Okay to Good

Cost:   $15.00 1.7 oz. ($8.82 per fluid ounce)  Price Category:  Expensive

Sold By:  Lancôme; Sephora; Major department stores everywhere

Container:  Plastic bottle with child-proof screw-off lid (push down while turning)

Description:   This is a clear liquid remover for all forms of eye makeup.  According to the manufacturer it is, “Gentle enough for sensitive eyes” and “Ophthalmologist-tested”.  This is not a fragrance-free product and parfum (fragrance) is the third from the last ingredient.

Before I begin the review I must state that I am not now, nor have I ever been, a fan of Lancôme products.  Not because they don’t perform well (they do), but because I don’t support some of their ingredients, especially the high concentration of fragrance and unnecessary chemical additives in their products.  I decided to buy several Lancôme products to review because they have such a cult following.  I wanted to really put them through numerous tests for quality and effectiveness to ascertain what others see in these products that I do not.

Everyone needs a good eye makeup remover that doesn’t burn, sting, and leave an oily film on their eyes.  The Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover is a bi-phase formula.  It contains a lipid layer (oily cleansing layer) and a water layer.  Simply put, this is similar to an oil-and-vinegar salad dressing.  The ingredients will separate when left standing.  You must shake the product well to temporarily combine the ingredients.  When shaken, the liquid will change from two clear liquids to one milky-looking liquid.  Oil and water are not miscible (don’t mix) but can form emulsions when shaken or stirred together.  (Enough for the chemistry lesson.)

Morning Review:  I like to use this product with a sterile fresh cotton swab each time.  A little goes a long way.  This remover does have a very slight oily feel to it, but the consistency is closer to water than oil.  There is a light floral scent.  This remover effectively removes all eye makeup, including waterproof mascara and gel eyeliner.  It does not burn or sting my eyes or make them water, but the fragrance additive makes my nose run.  Personally, I do not want fragrance anywhere on my face, especially my eyes.  The remover is quickly absorbed into the skin and does not leave an oily residue.  I always rinse off any eye makeup remover prior to the application of skin-care and makeup products but you don’t have to rinse this off if you don’t want to.

Morning Rating = 3 stars3 Stars for effectiveness, 2 stars2 Stars for making my nose run = 2+ stars2.5 Stars

Evening Review:  At the end of the day the skin around my eyes does not feel tight or irritated.  This product effectively removes all eye makeup including stubborn and difficult-to-remove products.   My makeup wipes do not find any traces of eye makeup.

Overall Review:  Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover is a very good eye makeup remover for all skin types and is gentle enough for those with contact lenses.  This is not an appropriate product for those with fragrance allergies.   This remover is suitable for both women and men who wear eye makeup.  (Yes, more and more men are wearing eye makeup now.)  My only negative is the fragrance additive.  Also, it is on the more expensive end.  After using it many times, I do not like this remover nearly as well as my usual fragrance-free eye makeup remover which costs less.  (Please see the review for the competitor’s product here.)

I have sensitive eyes and this product does not bother me, but some people are hyper-sensitive and Lancôme does make Effacil, a gentler product, which does not contain the lipid layer.  The primary difference between the two products is that Bi-Facil will remove waterproof mascara or gel eyeliner and Effacil will not.

Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover is suitable for the following skin types:

  • All ethnicities;
  • All ages;
  • All sexes;
  • Dry;
  • Sensitive (not if your sensitivity is fragrances);
  • Consistent;
  • Oily;
  • Combination.

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 2+ stars2.5 Stars;

Evening Rating = 2+ stars2.5 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 4 stars4 Stars;

Value Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

Overall Rating = 2+ stars2.75 Stars – Okay to Good.  (Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover

Ingredients:  Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Isohexadecane, Sodium Chloride, Poloxamer 184, Hexylene Glycol, Dipotassium Phosphate, Benzyl Alochol, Potassium Phosphate, Quaternium-15, Benzalkonium Chloride, Parfum, Citronellol, Geraniol.

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