CVS introduces MUA Makeup Academy collection

developed by makeup pros and beauty experts, the Makeup Academy line from CVS aims to bring premium quality cosmetics and beauty accessories to makeup lovers everywhere. i have used a few of these products {sent to me to try} and i think they are certainly worth checking out for yourself.

there are more than 145 products within 3 categories ~ lippies in fab textures and fashion-forward colors, beautifully-crafted brushes, and a great range of false eyelashes  ~ all now available in-store and online at cvs.com/muapro

for lips:
 over 100 lip products including lipsticks, glosses, crayons, stains, liquid lipsticks, and balms, my favorite is the unique Color Infused Balm {pic is featured below}, a 2-in-1 formula of lipstick on the inside, balm on the outside!

professional brushes:
 the premium, expertly crafted brush collection makes it easier than ever to create flawless makeup looks, conveniently and affordably. brushes include a Pro BB/CC Cream Brush, Foundation Brush and even a Point Liner Brush for gel eyeliners. i was sent the Pro Smudger/Detailer Brush and love how it really aids in creating a smoky liner and/or eyeshadow look with its soft dense bristles.   

false lashes:
with fine lashes that are perfect for day wear to fuller, volume-boosting lashes, the extensive range of false lashes also includes an Individual Lash Starter Kit that allows you to create an individual look by combining short and long lashes.

Pro Smudger/Detailer Brush

Color Infused Balm

wearing the lippies; soft liner look created using the Pro Smudger/Detailer Brush

you can find MUA products at select CVS locations and of course, online at cvs.com!

limited edition: LORAC Blushing Beauty Collection

it's summer and that probably means you're choosing makeup that will give you that beautifully radiant look. to help you achieve this, LORAC Cosmetics created the limited edition Blushing Beauty Collection. the 7-piece set includes everything you'll need to give your eyes, cheeks and lips that healthy-looking, rosy glow that lasts.

included in the limited-edition set:

*3 single-pot eyeshadows in Pink Champagne, PRO Mauve and Bordeaux

*Cobra Mascara

*PRO Powder Cheek Stain in Rosy Glow

*Alter Ego Lipstick in Duchess

*3-in-1 Waterproof Pencil in Black

the LORAC Blushing Beauty Collection retails for less than $40 and is available at select Kohl's stores. you can also find it online at kohls.com, but don't wait: this set is limited edition, so get it while you can!

happy shopping!

beauty review: Shiseido IBUKI skincare

as an Allure 2013 Breakthrough Beauty Award winner, the Shiseido IBUKI range of skincare products boast a multi-action formula that corrects the appearance of unevenness as well as visible pores, dryness, breakouts and blemish marks, and skin roughness.

according to Shiseido, IBUKI Skincare "builds skin's resistance to UV rays and daily stress by infusing it with long-lasting moisture". their exclusive technology "puts your skin in a super-hydrated state, so it can maintain a healthy, more radiant glow"…

i don't know about the UV resistance, since i wear spf daily, but i can say from my experience that my skin absolutely appreciates the added {much-needed} hydration. these products have definitely given my skin a smoother looking and feeling appearance…

take a closer look...

the Purifying Cleanser contains micro-granules {they are very micro, btw} that allow the formula to gently exfoliate skin. one major standout to me is that it only takes the tiniest amount {like a pea} to create a serious, rich lather, and i like the way it removes all traces of dirt and oil, but never leaves my skin feeling tight or over dry.

Softening Concentrate is simply fabulous. this deep-infusion formula puts its softening ingredients into the skin for a smoother look and feel. as it claims, i've found this post-cleanser liquid enhances the benefits of the skincare i apply after it since it hydrates and smooths so well. i also no longer have any over-drying from my blemish-fighting toner since this Concentrate puts the moisture back in. love that!

Refining Moisturizer Enriched is a multi-action formula that is so rich, lush and highly moisturizing without a greasy feel.  i use it day and night {a bit more at night} and love that it absorbs quickly; it also contains witch hazel, a beautiful ingredient that helps keep blemishes at bay.


do you use Shiseido skincare products? i've been so impressed by what i've used so far to this point…

in any case, you can find Shiseido IBUKI at Sephora, Macy's and other fine departments stories. visit shiseido.com for more info!

products featured sent to me for review consideration; all thoughts and opinions are my own; pics taken by me :)

pink beauty from Japonesque

Japonesque, the brand known for creating some of the best beauty tools, is pretty in pink this month, joining the fight against breast cancer.

take a look at these beauties...

to keep those tips {and toes} looking gorgeous, the Manicure Kit is pretty and oh-so practical. top-quality manicure tools come housed in a protective, vibrant pink carrying case and includes tweezers, nail clippers, nail nippers, nail and cuticle scissor, combination nail file, nail grooming tool, and nail scoop.

since brows are the frames of our eyes, the Brow Kit is perfect for keeping them in the best shape. includes precision crafted tools, using only the highest quality materials to create your best look. the tweezer has a hand-filed tip for perfect alignment and precise hair removal; brow powders and wax define brows; brow gel finishes the look, keeping brows in place all day and night.

Touch Up Tube 5 Piece Travel Brush Set is encased in a sleek pink tube designed for portability as well as  protection. includes a brush for foundation, lips, blush/powder and two eye detailers. all brushes feature a short matte wand for superior control. i love these! they're ideal for your purse, gym bag, desk drawer and of course, as a gift!

unlike traditional curlers that can pinch or break lashes with pressure {ouch!}, the Heated Mini Eyelash Curler lifts and curls the lashes with heat. unbelievably gentle, this eye-opening tool can be used before or after mascara application. the all-in-one design is battery powered {one is included}, slipping neatly into your pocket or purse.

go pink with Japonesque ~ every product is fabulous and $1 of each pink product sale will be donated to breast cancer research. visit japonesque.com to find retailers near you.

products featured sent to me for review consideration; pics taken by me :)