Tag: Makeup

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.

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.

How To Determine Your Skin Type

How To Determine Your Skin Type.  Today we are not discussing a product, but offering a tutorial.  I hope you find this helpful.

Here you will find how to identify what type of skin you have.  If you don’t have a magnifying mirror, I suggest you invest in one and really examine your skin. If, after you review these characteristics you still don’t know what type of skin you have, a brief visit to an esthetician or dermatologist can make that determination.  (Or, you can message me and I’ll try to help you.)

Knowing what type of skin you have is important. You can’t buy the right type of product if you don’t know your skin type. Every day I interview clients and most of them tell me they have “normal” skin when in fact, their skin is combination or some other type. Instead of normal, I prefer the term “consistent”.

Begin by washing your face with a normal facial cleansing bar and then do not apply any type of products to your face.  After one hour, read the below descriptions to determine which one best describes your skin.

Consistent (Commonly Referred to as Normal) Everyone’s skin is “normal” to them because they live in it every day. That doesn’t help to describe a type of skin. Therefore, I’ve decided to use the term “consistent” instead of normal.

  • Skin feels comfortable, rarely dry, tight or oily.
  • Skin is the same all over the face without some areas drier or oilier than others.
  • Skin has a soft, even texture without flakiness from dryness or shine from oiliness.
  • Breakouts are rare.
  • Pores are visible but not black or enlarged.
  • Makeup will stay on for several hours without the need for touch ups.

Combination (I have found this type to be the most common.)

  • Some areas (usually nose but possibly also forehead or chin) are oily and shiny.
  • Other areas (usually cheeks) feel dry, rough or tight. Dry areas may or may not have flaky spots.
  • May experience occasional breakouts, usually in isolated areas.
  • Pores may be enlarged in the oily areas and may contain black heads or white heads. Pores in the dry areas are smaller and may be visible but not black or enlarged.
  • Makeup will stay on well on the dry areas but may need to be touched up every couple of hours on the oily areas, especially the nose.

Dry (Becomes more common as we age)

  • Skin can feel tight, chapped or rough, especially after cleansing with surfactant products such as soap.
  • May experience dullness, patchiness, itchiness or flakiness.
  • Almost never breaks out.
  • Pores are small and nearly invisible. Pores rarely have black heads or white heads.
  • Makeup will stay on for many hours until it is washed away.

Oily (Very common in teenagers)

  • The skin usually feels supple and never feels tight or dry unless a drying product has been applied.
  • Skin looks oily and shiny all over, especially as the day goes on.
  • Breakouts are a regular part of life.
  • Pores tend to be very visible, especially around the nose, and there may be black heads, white heads or both.
  • Makeup tends to melt away after a couple of hours and needs frequent touch ups.

Sensitive (Can occur at any age and in conjunction with other types)

  • Skin becomes easily irritated or inflamed, especially by fragrances, allergens or climate.
  • Skin gets red, itchy, or stings when trying most new skincare products.
  • May have a diagnosis of Rosacea, eczema or dermatitis.
  • May experience breakouts from any number of irritants.
  • May burn easily and requires sunscreen with a high SPF.
  • Makeup may irritate your skin.
  • Makeup will stay on for several hours without the need for touch ups.
  • Sensitive skin can also be Consistent, Combination, Dry, or Oily! (Yes, you may have any type of skin and also experience allergies or sensitivity issues.)

Your skin can change as you age.  For women this is especially true as you experience menopause or even peri-menopause. Hormones can cause major shifts in many areas of your body, including your basic chemistry.

If after reading this you still can’t figure out your skin type, you can message me and after answering a few simple questions, I’ll be able to tell you.

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.

Kiss Looks So Natural Lashes False Eyelashes

Product:  Kiss Looks So Natural Lashes False Eyelashes.  Do you want to feel glamorous or flirty?  These will help.

Overall Rating = 4 stars4 Stars – Excellent

Cost: $2.96 for one pair  Price Category: Inexpensive

Sold By: KissUSA; Walgreen’s; Wal-mart.

Container: Plastic storage tray with outer carton

Description:  Kiss Looks So Natural Lashes false eyelashes are also commonly called fake lashes or artificial lashes.  These are a strip-style false eyelash.  What sets them apart from some other brands is that they are made from human hair for a more natural look and the tips of the lashes are thinner which simulates natural eyelashes.  The hairs actually taper from being thicker at the strip base to thinner at the end, just as real eyelashes do.

The company claims, “Revolutionary Tapered End Technology delivers real-like lashes that blend seamlessly with your own lashes. 97% of women who wore these lashes felt the difference—you’ll forget you’re wearing them!”

False eyelashes come in different types:

  • Individual lashes that are glued on one at a time on top of or under your own lashes
  • Small clusters of lashes that are glued on to the skin above the natural lashes
  • Strip eyelashes that are glued on to the skin above the natural lashes

False eyelashes are made from different materials:

  • Synthetic-hair lashes
  • Synthetic other materials
  • Natural human-hair lashes
  • Natural animal-hair lashes
  • Natural feathers

False eyelashes come in many different styles:

  • Graduated with the outer ends being longer than the inner ends (winged)
  • All one length
  • Spiky with spaces in between
  • Criss-crossed pattern
  • With black strips
  • With clear strips

False eyelashes can be natural or very dramatic looking depending upon how thick and/or long they are.  The choice is yours whether you want to simply enhance a natural look or go for full-on glamazon drama.

Over the course of my career I have applied thousands of pairs of false eyelashes (sometimes 20 or more pairs per day).  For brides or more natural looks, I prefer human-hair lashes.  For a completely natural look I like Kiss “Sultry”.  For a more defined look I like Kiss “Shy” or “Vamp”.  For slightly more drama I like Kiss”Poise”, “Pretty” or “Flirty”.

For models or rock stars I prefer synthetic lashes because these are the most dramatic.  (I don’t use animal-hair lashes because I think animal hairs should stay on the animals they belong to.)

Warnings:

  • If you have never worn false eyelashes before, please be advised that some lash adhesives contain latex. If you have a latex allergy, make sure you buy only latex-free glue.  (You can message me and I’ll recommend some good brands for you.)
  • If you are sensitive to dyes, buy the white or clear adhesive and not the black. I use the white because of my hypersensitivity.

Daily Review:  After I completed my eye makeup, this was the final touch.  I peeled the Kiss Looks So Natural Lashes “Flirty” eyelashes off of the tray, applied Andrea white glue, placed them onto my eyelids, blended them into my own lashes with Ardell Lash Magic and violâ, instant glamour!

Helpful Tips and How-to Apply False Eyelashes:

  • If you are a first-time user, synthetic lashes are stiffer than natural human-hair lashes and they will be easier for you to practice with, but they won’t look as natural. A cheap, thick, dramatic synthetic pair is the best thing to practice with until you get the hang of it.
  • Sterilize your hands before beginning the eyelash application.
  • Remove the eyelash from the tray from the outer corner moving inward.
  • Measure the eyelash to see if it is too long and needs to be trimmed.
  • If it needs to be trimmed, trim from the outer edge, not the inner edge.
  • Bend the eyelash to match the curvature of your eye.
  • Apply glue with a sterile toothpick, not from the tube.
  • If you apply glue from the tube, you will get too much glue on the eyelash.
  • Use as little glue as possible.
  • Let the glue dry for about 15-30 seconds before applying. (depends upon brand and thickness)
  • Don’t blow on the lash to dry it; your breath contains bacteria.
  • Apply the lash from the inner corner where your lashes begin to the outer corner.
  • After application gently press the lash onto the skin to secure the adhesion.
  • Don’t use regular mascara on your false eyelashes.
  • If you use waterproof mascara on your false lashes they will only be good for one use.
  • Blend your lashes into your own with a dry spoolie or a mascara made for false lashes. (I like Ardell Lash Magic.)
  • Store them on the tray and in the package that they came in for re-use.
  • Carefully remove the old adhesive before applying new adhesive.

Overall Review:  Kiss Looks So Natural Lashes false eyelashes are as good as other brands costing considerably more.  I have purchased hundreds of pairs of these and have never been disappointed.

If you have never tried false eyelashes and don’t wear a lot of makeup, begin with a natural look such as the Kiss “Sultry” and don’t get frustrated.  It takes a few tries to get the routine down.  I can now apply them start to finish in about a minute each.

Kiss Looks So Natural Lashes false eyelashes are suitable for the following users:

  • All users (Please pay attention to the Warnings above for some users.)

RATINGS REPORT:

Daily 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.)

Kiss Looks So Natural Lashes False Eyelashes Sultry

Kiss Looks So Natural Sultry

Kiss Looks So Natural Lashes False Eyelashes Shy

Kiss Looks So Natural Shy

Kiss Looks So Natural Lashes False Eyelashes Vamp

Kiss Looks So Natural Vamp

Kiss Looks So Natural Lashes False Eyelashes Flirty

Kiss Looks So Natural Flirty

Kiss Looks So Natural Lashes False Eyelashes Flirty

Kiss Looks So Natural Lashes False Eyelashes Flirty with Makeup

Ingredients: Human hair.

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.

L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara

Product:  L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara.  Does anyone really like this?  If so, please tell me why.

Overall Rating = 1+ stars1.8 Stars – Terrible to Just Okay

Cost: $7.97 for .26 oz. ($26.57 per fluid ounce)  Price Category: Inexpensive

Sold By: L’Oreal Paris; Walgreen’s; Wal-mart; Retailers everywhere.

Container: Gold Plastic tube with twist-off large-sized plastic nub wand, blister package.

Description:  L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara is a readily-available waterproof mascara.  This mascara requires an eye makeup remover to effectively take it off.  (See our other reviews for recommendations.)  This mascara is intended to build volume and add thickness to eyelashes. This is a fiber-free formula.

For detailed information on mascara formulas and finding the best one for you, please see Mascara 101 on the Help page.

L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara is primarily a volumizing and thickening mascara although I find it also adds a little length to my lashes.  This would be good for anyone who has thin or sparse eyelashes if only it worked better.  The Blackest Black color (635) option is a deep glossy black that will help to accentuate and add definition to your eyes.

The company claims, “Smooth and even application. Lash by lash definition. Natural volume.”  (I’m sorry, but I have to disagree with these claims.)

What makes a good mascara?

  • Ease of application
  • A formula that provides length and volume
  • No clumps
  • No flakes
  • No smudging
  • No running
  • No irritation

That doesn’t seem like too much to ask, right?  In this case, apparently it is.  I’m surprised this one passed Research and Development at L’Oreal Paris and even made it to the market place.  I can’t imagine anyone buying it more than once.

Morning Review:  L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara is a very wet mascara and I prefer a dryer-feeling formula.  In my experience (which is considerable), the wetter the formula, the greater the tendency to clump.  This mascara has an unpleasant scent, but it is not so bad as to make my nose run or eyes water.  The applicator is a huge fat rubbery plastic wand which is also way too large for my taste.  I have also found the smaller the wand, the greater the precision and control.

The rubber collar at the top does a pretty good job of removing some of the mascara, but there is still a big glob on the tip and I have to scrape some of it back into the tube prior to application.  The first coat of mascara does add a little length, but it also makes my eyelashes stick together and I had to really work with a clean spoolie brush to separate my lashes.  The second coat made them even spikier and spidery.  L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara also takes a long time to dry.  In short, yuck!

Please see Mascara 101 on my Help page for application tips.

Morning Rating = 1 star1 Star

Evening Review:  After several hours L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara stayed on and did not flake off.  It also did not smudge or cause any irritation issues.  My makeup looked awful all day though and I was very happy when it was time to take it off.  I used an eye makeup remover designed for waterproof makeup and it came off easily.

Overall Review:  L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara is a terrible mascara unless you like the Tammy Faye Bakker spider-lash look.  (If you’re young, you don’t know who that is, and have no idea what I’m talking about.)  If you do like that look, you are going to fall in love with this product.

As a professional makeup artist, when I do someone’s makeup I need products that can deliver beautiful results.  My clients expect full dramatic lashes.  I would NEVER use this on a client unless I was going for a specific type of terrible look for a character.

L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara is suitable for the following users:

  • No one (unless you like spiky, spidery-looking eyelashes).

Please see Mascara 101 on the Help page to determine your eyelash type and find the best formulas for you.

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 1 star1 Star;

Evening Rating = 1 star1 Star;

Average from Other Testers = 1+ stars1.5 Stars;

Value Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Overall Rating = 1+ stars1.8 Stars, Terrible to Just Okay.

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

L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara TubeL’Oreal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara Wand

Ingredients:  ISODODECANE • CERA ALBA / BEESWAX • CERA CARNAUBA / CARNAUBA WAX • DISTEARDIMONIUM HECTORITE • AQUA / WATER • ALLYL STEARATE/VA COPOLYMER • ORYZA SATIVA CERA / RICE BRAN WAX • PARAFFIN • ALCOHOL DENAT. • POLYVINYL LAURATE • VP/EICOSENE COPOLYMER • PROPYLENE CARBONATE • TALC • SYNTHETIC BEESWAX • ETHYLENEDIAMINE/STEARYL DIMER DILINOLEATE COPOLYMER • PEG-30 GLYCERYL STEARATE • PROPYLPARABEN • METHYLPARABEN • CANDELILLA CERA / CANDELILLA WAX / CIRE DE CANDELILLA • MAY CONTAIN [+/- CI 77499 / IRON OXIDES • CI 77891 / TITANIUM DIOXIDE] • FIL D45787/2.

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