China Glaze Wish on a Starfish

March 13, 2014, 6:30 am

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Sparkled Beauty has gone all "pink central" lately lol. This is China Glaze Wish on a Starfish from the Sea Goddess collection.

I don't normally lean toward a pink when it comes to doing my nails but so far I have worn this shade twice. How did that happen? :)

This mani you see here was done the week of V Day, and I am wearing it again today (minus the hearts, which are from Claire's Love Struck, if you are wondering).

I was mesmerized by the glittery gold sheen in Wish on a Starfish, like it was glowing from the inside. It was the first shade I grabbed the day Sally had $3.99 promo on China Glaze.

When it's on my nails, I feel all bubbly inside, seriously. It is one of those "feel good" nail polishes that I can't have enough in the stash.

This is two coats, with a top coat which does not affect the glow at all. The grittiness is not overwhelming, very comfortable to wear. And removal is a breeze!

This is Love Struck in the bottle. It has red and pale pink heart glitters but the pale pink hearts were hardly visible on. Fishing for them was quite a task when they aren't very densely distributed in the bottle.

The hearts stayed on for about two days. If I ever do this mani again, I would have to add another layer of top coat on the second day to keep the particles in place.

Without the glitters though, Wish on a Starfish is still super fun to wear. I am so glad brands started to add more flare to texture polish, like the fun never ends :)

Safe travel today for those who have bad weather. We have rain here but Toronto got some white stuff yesterday, so I feel for you.

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Weekly flyer deals

March 14, 2014, 6:22 am

≫ Next: Make Up For Ever HD cream blush

≪ Previous: China Glaze Wish on a Starfish

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Shoppers:
*** Saturday and Sunday: Double Double event - you get $10 Shoppers gift card and $10 Tim card with $75 purchase
*** Monday to Wednesday: 18,500 points with $75 purchase

*** All week:
- Garnier Fructis/ Balea hair care: CAD2.99
- Aveeno/ L'Oreal Ever, Elnette hair care: CAD6.99
- Clean & Clear/ Aveeno skin care: 25% off
- Pond's cleansing cloths (30's), facial moisturizer: CAD5.99
- Noxzema Triple Clean pads (90's): CAD4.99
- St. Ives skin care: CAD4.99
- Biore skin care: CAD6.99
- Olay classic facial cleanser: CAD5.99
- Hydraluron, Nanoblur, Retinol Reface: CAD19.99
- L'Oreal facial moisturizer: CAD26.99
- La Roche-Posay skin care: 15% off
- Marcelle Revival Pro Sculpt facial moisturizer: CAD29.99
- EoS/ Burt's Bees lip care: 20% off
- Revlon Shadow Links: 3/CAD8; ColorBurst lip, Grow Luscious/ PhotoReady mascara: CAD8.99
- Maybelline Baby Lips, Instant Age Rewind concealer, SuperStay lip: 15% off; Lasting Drama gel liner, Master Hi-Light, Master Glaze: 20% off
- CoverGirl PerfectPoint Plus eye pencil, Lash Blast mascara, Lip Perfection lip: CAD8.99
- Rimmel Extra Wow mascara, Stay Glossy gloss, Soft Kohl eye pencil: CAD3.99; Clean Finish foundation, Wake Up concealer, Scandal Eyes eye: CAD6.99
- Almay Shadow Softies, One Coat mascara, Intense i-color eye: buy 2 get 1,000 points
- Sally Hansen Insta-Dri nail polish: 2/CAD6.99; Complete Salon nail polish, Salon Effects nail polish strips, treatment: CAD7.99
- Maybelline Color Show nail polish: CAD3.99
- L'Oreal Colour Riche nail polish: CAD3.99
- Revlon nail polish, treatment: CAD5.99
- Essie Spring nail polish: 15% off
- Quo by Orly gel nail polish: 15% off
- Elizabeth Arden Spring Colour collection: buy 2 get 2,500 points
- Biotherm GWP of $30 or more until March 23. The 6-pc gift includes BioSource Exfoliating cleansing gel (20ml), AquaSource Normal combination skin (15ml), AquaSource Deep serum (15ml), AquaSource Nuit (20ml), travel sized manicure kit and a pouch.

*** Spring Beauty bonus is still on until March 21: With a purchase of $125 or more on cosmetics, skincare or fragrance at beautyBOUTIQUE, you'll get a clutch filled with over 20 luxury cosmetic, skin care and fragrance samples.

*** Optimum Hot spots: x20 points
- John Frieda/ got2b/ Nexxus/ Fekkai/ Pantene Expert hair care
- Eucerin/ Cerave/ Simple skin care
- Veet Natural hair removal
- Toni & Guy hair appliances
- Garnier towelettes (25's), facial moisturizer
- Quo brushes, implements, makeup
- Maybelline Volume Express the Falsies Big Eyes mascara, Dream Bouncy blush, Color Sensational lip
- L'Oreal Infallible Blackbuster liquid liner, Voluminous Butterfly mascara, True Match makeup
- Physicians Formula eye.

*** Bonus Optimum points until March 21:
- 15,000 points with $150 Lancome purchase
- 4,000 points with $40 Lise Watier makeup purchase
- 3,000 points with purchase of L'Oreal Preference Mousse Absolue
- 1,500 points with purchase of 2 Maybelline fashion week products (the pic includes the Elixirs and Big Eyes mascara)
- 1,000 points with purchase of 2 Aveeno products
- x10 points with purchase of any Shiseido White Lucent product
- x10 points with $50 Estee Lauder makeup purchase
- x10 points with purchase of any Nivea face care product or body lotion.

Lawtons Tuesday - Thursday: Free $10 Sobeys/ Foodland gift card with $50 purchase. With $25 cosmetic purchase with your Airmiles card, you'll get an entry to win free cosmetic for a year
- L'Oreal Age Perfect skin care: 25% off
- Aveeno Positively Ageless skin care: 20% off
- L'Oreal Ever/ Cleo Therapy hair care: CAD6.99
- Crabtree & Evelyn Hand Therapy, Lip tint/ butter: 25% off (bonus 10 Airmiles when you buy 3)
- Montagne Jeunesse masks: 15% off
- La Roche-Posay Efaclar, body care: 20% off
- Vichy Aqualia skin care, Idealia Life serum: 20% off (bonus 10 miles when you buy 2)
- Vichy cleanser, toner (excluding Normaderm): CAD13.88 (bonus 25 miles when you buy 3)
- Freeze 24-7 skin care: 20% off (bonus 50 miles when you buy 2)
- Avene sun care: 20% off (bonus 20 miles when you buy 3)
- CoverGirl: 25% off
- Maybelline lipstick, gloss: 25% off
- L'Oreal eyeshadow, liner, mascara: 25% off
- Marcelle eye, makeup remover: 20% off
- LA Colors/ LA Girl eye: 25% off
- Milani eye: 15% off (bonus 10 miles when you buy 3)
- No Bleeding Lips lip liner: CAD9.99
- Maybelline Color Show nail polish: CAD2.99
- L'Oreal nail polish: CAD5.88
- Revlon nail polish, treatment, beauty tools: 25% off (bonus 10 miles when you buy 3)
- Sally Hansen nail polish, treatment: 20% off
- Sinful Colors nail polish: CAD1.99
- Del Sol nail polish: CAD5.99
- Layla nail polish: 50% off
- Seche nail polish: CAD6.99; Seche Vite: CAD9.99 (bonus 15 miles when you buy 3)
- Mavala nail polish: 25% off
- Nicole by OPI treatment: CAD8.88
- OPI, Essie nail polish, treatment: CAD8.88
- Kiss Everlasting gel polish system: 25% off (bonus 25 miles when you buy 3)
- Ardell lashes, accessories: 15% off (bonus 10 miles when you buy 3).

Bonus Airmiles:
- Unilever (Vaseline, Simple, Dove, Tresemme, etc.): bonus 25 Airmiles when you spend $25
- Johnson & Johnson (Aveeno, Clean & Clear, Neutrogena, etc.): bonus 30 miles when you spend $30
- Maybelline, Garnier: bonus 25 miles when you spend $25
- L'Oreal: bonus 25 miles when you spend $50
- Burt's Bees: bonus 15 miles when you spend $15.

Walmart:
- CoverGirl Bombshell mascara: CAD7.97; TruBlend foundation, TruMagic luminizer: CAD9.97
- Olay Complete base/ classic moisturizer: CAD8.97; Regenerist base moisturizer, Total Effects moisturizer, Smooth Finish facial hair removal duo: CAD19.97
- L'Oreal Age Perfect skin care: CAD16.97
- Biore skin care: CAD6.47
- Garnier hand/ body lotion (700ml): CAD4.97; Skin Renew skin care: CAD12.97
- Neutrogena cleanser, moisturizer: on roll back
- St. Ives face care: CAD3.42
- Clean & Clear Morning Burst, Night Relaxing skin care: CAD6.77
- Maybelline Volume Express mascara: CAD4.96; Fit Me foundation stick, blush, liquid foundation: CAD6.96
- CoverGirl Clean foundation, pressed powder: CAD5.97
- Revlon ColorBurst matte, lacquer balm: CAD5.96
- L'Oreal Voluminous Million Lashes, Excess mascara, Lineur Intense liner, Infallible liner: CAD7.96
- Rimmel Scandal Eyes mascara, eyeliner, bronzer: CAD5
- Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear nail polish: CAD1.97; Triple Shine nail polish: CAD4.47
- Maybelline Color Show nail polish: CAD2.50
- Essie nail polish: CAD7.96.

Target:
- Maybelline (selected items): 20% off
- Rimmel (selected items): CAD5.99
- Sally Hansen Insta-Dri, Diamond Strength nail polish, nail art: CAD3.99.

Superstore: Saturday: No tax in NS
- Garnier Clean+/ Pure Control cleanser: CAD6.99 (save $2)
- Nivea Soft creme, Aqua Effects cleanser, body lotion: CAD6.49 (save $1.50)
- Vaseline body lotion, St. Ives body spray: CAD5.99 (save $1)
- Pantene Repair & Protect hair care: CAD3.99
- Tresemme Keratin Smooth hair care: CAD3.99.

The Bay: The Full Service Beauty Event: spend $50 or more on cosmetics or fragrance now till March 19 and get a $10 coupon, redeemable on a beauty purchase of $75 or more.

Shiseido GWP of $43 or more until March 23. The gift values $62, includes:
- Benefiance Extra Creamy cleansing foam (30ml)
- Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Night emulsion (15ml)
- Bio-Performance Advanced Super Restoring cream (7ml)
- Refining makeup primer (10ml)
- Instant Eye and Lip makeup remover (30ml), and
- Cosmetic bag.

With $75 Shiseido purchase, you'll get an additional travel sized sample of White Lucent Total Brightening serum (9ml, values $42)

Until Sunday, with a Shiseido purchase of $75 or more using Hudson's Bay credit card/ MasterCard, you'll get a $20 saving card, redeemable on your next purchase of $100 or more (excluding cosmetics/ fragrances) with Hudson's Bay credit card/ MasterCard until March 30.

Estee Lauder GWP is still on until Sunday.

Sears: Clarins GWP of 2 products (one of which is skin care) until March 23. The gift values up to $185, is customized to your needs. With a purchase of 1 additional skin care product, you receive the Gentle foaming cleanser (125ml). Bonus gift: 15-minute eye treatment and Instant Eye makeup remover (30ml).

Spend $75 on Clarins products and receive a $25 Sears saving card, redeemable on fashion, footwear, jewelry, accessories or luggage purchase of $75 or more.

Lise Watier: Online sale up to 60% off until Sunday, free shipping with $75 orders. Prices are great, some items are OOS already.

Sally: Extra 50% off red tag clearance items until Sunday.

Bobbi Brown Canada: F&F 20% off until Sunday (discount applies at checkout, no code needed). Free shipping with $75 orders.

Nail Polish Canada: 40% off Zoya nail polish remover (Remove + 3-in-1 formula, 32oz, reg. $29) for the first 150 customers, 1 per customer, with code "ZOYA40". Free shipping in Canada.

Bath and Body Works: B3G3F or B2G2F everything in the store until Saturday.

Milani: 25% off lip products with code "MYMILANILIPS25" from their website until March 18. They do ship to Canada.

Coastal Scents: All 384 eyeshadow and concealer hot pots are $.99 each (reg. $1.99) until March 21, ship worldwide.

How do I even choose what to get? lol

Sleek Makeup: 20% off orders of £20/€25/$30 until Monday.

Z Palette: all zebra printed palettes are 25% off until Sunday. Free US shipping with $60 orders, they do ship internationally.

Ebates Canada: Double cash back event
- ebay: 2%
- Old Navy, GAP, Banana Republic, Gilt, Roots, the Source: 4%
- Marcelle, Sephora: 5%
- Point Zero: 6%
- West49: 7%
- Holiday Inn: 9%
- Keurig, The Body Shop: 10%
- Entertainment Book: 16%, etc.

As always, my link is on the left side bar if you need it.  

Make Up For Ever HD cream blush

March 17, 2014, 6:22 am

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≪ Previous: Weekly flyer deals

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It has been a while since I was floored by a blush. Sure I have come across many blushes that I like, cream or powder, but something about this one that makes me come back every time :)

This is a Make Up For Ever HD Second Skin cream blush, a new generation of cream blushes they call it. To me, it is almost weightless on the skin, blends so easily and looks natural on and off cameras with the minimal amount of effort.

I have tested the blush with light and heavy hand, with my fingers and with a blush brush, couldn't find anything I did not like about it :)

According to Make Up For Ever, these blushes have a perfect blend of silicone and dry oils, with waxes and silica powders to diffuse light for a smooth texture, infinite blendability and long lasting formula. And the clear mother of pearl and pigments are what make it glow.

The thin compact is great to tote around, and the mirror is handy to have. A+ for packaging to pair with A+ for quality.

Among the 16 shades (#200's to #500's) available in the range (to suit every skin tone with cool and warm undertones), I chose #510 Raspberry to review. I prefer darker shades on my eyes and cheeks and this shade also gets an A+.

I swatch Raspberry with my finger (left) and with a brush (right), no base. It looks scary in the pan and before blending, but see what I meant about it looking so natural blended?

The blush could be worn over or under a powder, but it is great just by itself, the way I prefer it anyway. Only a tiny amount is needed, so this compact will last me a long time.

I saw this instruction from the brand of different blush techniques we can use with these blushes, thought it might be helpful for you. Click to enlarge, if you need to.

- Classic (for all face shapes): on the cheekbone from the hairline to the apple of the cheek with figure 8 motion
- Sculpting (round or square face shape); from the hairline toward the mouth (not close to the nose), blend upward
- Healthy glow (oval face shape): on the cheekbone with circular motion
- Highlighting (heart face shape): upper cheekbone toward the area under the eyes, blend toward the temples.

I found my blush looks best when I sweep it from under the cheekbone toward the temples, blend upward, then tap whatever left on the brush along the hairline up from the temples.

I totally recommend #510 Raspberry if you have skin tone like mine. Check out the whole line, there will be a shade that works for you. They are out now, retails $31 each (0.09oz/ 2.8g). FOTD is coming up soon!

Milani makeup

March 18, 2014, 6:26 am

≫ Next: FOTD: MUFE and Milani

≪ Previous: Make Up For Ever HD cream blush

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I received a few Milani products from Lawtons for review. They are not newly released products but will give you some highlights to the brand, if you are looking for products to try.

From L-R:
- Liquid Eye Liquid-like eyeliner pencil in Black 
- Eye Tech Extreme liquid eyeliner in Blackest Black
- Runway Lashes Instant Volume mascara in Black
- Runway Eyes eyeshadow in Beach Sand and
- Color Statement lipstick in Best Red.

I can already imagine the look I would go for using these products, stay tuned :)

Milani Liquid Eye Liquid-like eyeliner pencil in Black is not new to me, as I have it in the stash for a while already and included it in a few FOTDs in the past.

This liner is soft, smooth with great pigmentation. It lasts all day on me, hardly any smudges. I reach for it every time I want a black liner on the lower lash line.

It is an automatic liner, so you don't have to sharpen the tip most of the time, unless it becomes blunt due to heavy lining work. It does not come with a built-in sharpener, unfortunately, when that happens.

The liner retails for $6.29 at Lawtons.

I have heard a lot of buzz about the Eye Tech Extreme liquid eyeliner but didn't try it until now.

First off, the grip handle is extremely handy for newbies I can hold the pen comfortably with good control over the tip. Great selling point, at least for me.

This liner is also pigmented (I got Blackest Black), waterproof, dries quickly and stays on for a good amount of time. The fine tip offers precision, but with a bit of pressure, it can make thicker lines effortlessly as well. I tried both ways and had no complains.

This liner retails $11.59, quite a bit more than other liquid liners at drugstores.

Now this Runway Lashes Instant Volume mascara is a surprise. Milani mascaras aren't talked about much on blogs at all, so I didn't know what to expect.

The brush is in the typical shape, easy on the eyes (literally lol). The size works well for my eye shape and it gets the volumizing job done very nicely. No clumping happened, even when I layered more than two coats, and no smudging either.

The bright yellow cap and gold holographic letters on the black tube make the mascara stand out among other black tubes in the stash. Feels like they designed it just for me :) The mascara is $5.99, not bad at all.

This Color Statement lipstick in Best Red is one of the prettiest reds I have tried. It is semi matte but not drying. It was so comfortable on that I actually swiped my lips couple times, forgetting I had it on.

Best Red only costs you $6.99. Note that it does have a light floral scent like the rest of the Color Statement lipstick line, not a problem for me.

Now the Runway Eyes eyeshadows ($8.39 each) are meant to be used both dry and wet. This particular shade - Beach Sand - is too close to my skin tone to show up dry but it is quite pretty when wet (see a swatch below). It does have a bit of shimmers, not overwhelming on the lids. Application and blending are easy.

Swatches from L-R:
- Runway Eyes eyeshadow in Beach Sand, with a damp brush
- Color Statement lipstick in Best Red
- Liquid Eye Liquid-like eyeliner pencil in Black
- Eye Tech Extreme liquid eyeliner in Blackest Black in thick and thin lines.

If you have a skin tone like mine, Beach Sand would work best dabbed on mid lid or inner corner or as a brow bone highlight.

Best Red shows up well with two swipes, without a lip liner underneath. The two liners are dark and easy to swatch.

Stay tuned for a FOTD. Have you tried any of these products? What are your thoughts?

FOTD: MUFE and Milani

March 19, 2014, 6:17 am

≫ Next: Rainbow Honey The Summer of 199x

≪ Previous: Milani makeup

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As natural looking as I said Make Up For Ever HD Second Skin cream blush in #510 Raspberry is, here it is, with a light hand, on my cheeks. See why I like this blush? :)

Co-staring in this look are the Milani makeup I have just reviewed:
- Runway Eyes eyeshadow in Beach Sand in 2/3 of the lids and under the brows, with a damp brush
- Liquid Eye Liquid-like eyeliner pencil in Black
- Eye Tech Extreme liquid eyeliner in Blackest Black on the outer half of the upper lash line
- Runway Lashes Instant Volume mascara in Black
- Color Statement lipstick in Best Red.

Told you Best Red is a beautiful red, it brightens up my face like no business without the shine. Even without a lip liner, it does not bleed on me and wears quite long.

Other products I used:
- Make Up For Ever HD Invisible Cover foundation in 123
Haven't been using this foundation for a while, it's nice to come back to it.
- It Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eyes Full coverage waterproof concealer in Neutral Medium
This one is still going strong but the tube has gotten a bit hard to squeeze. Why?
- Maybelline Color Tattoo in Stroke of Midnight as base near the upper lash line and on the outer V only
I wanted a base for Beach Sand but didn't want to overwhelm it, so went for a one-eyeshadow look with darkened outer V.
- Marcelle Eyebrow pen in Universal Dark.
Been using this pen every day. It makes shaping the brows an easier task. Just a suggestion though: limit the pen to just that and fill in the brows with a pencil. Otherwise, the ink will run out quite fast and the fab slanted tip on the pen will be a waste :)

Excuse my scarf, if it is distracting. It is still freezing cold in March this year and I was still fighting this cold I have for like 2 weeks already. Time seems to pass by so slowly when you are sick, don't you agree?

Thank you to those of you who commented about wanting to see this FOTD. Hope I do a decent job in showing you the makeup on me.

I can't wait for Burger Week to start tomorrow, I need some good burgers to get through this week. We have it good here with things you can imagine on a burger - fried eggs, peanut butter, kimchi, yogurt with lamb, mac n cheese, etc. Squirt and I are more than excited!

Talking about her, we are in the planning mood for her 11th birthday. I am out of ideas, as we have done it all lol.

Rainbow Honey The Summer of 199x

March 20, 2014, 6:26 am

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≪ Previous: FOTD: MUFE and Milani

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Rainbow Honey has a fun Summer of 1999x collection inspired by a video game called Earthbound (1995). I showed you Apple Kid before, and will show you today two more shades that I received for review.

This is Magic Cake, with a bunch of bright glitters in a clear base. I can see small and medium blue hexes, green squares, hot pink/ red hexes and squares, and small yellow squares. A dark neutral toned base was in order, I used Revlon Italian Leather from the Parfumerie line.
Lumine Hall is a different story, a dark blue jelly with fine multi-coloured glitters, equally fabulous. Its base is opaque enough to offer a full mani with two coats, all by itself.

I got the regular 2-3 day wear out of these shades. I am glad that the collection is versatile, offering different finishes. I enjoyed all 3 shades I got. Again, the bottles here are in sample size (4ml). The full size (15ml) retails $11.50 on NailpolishCanada.com (free shipping for all Canadian orders).

Happy Spring to you all :) Temperature did rise around here but still is not at Spring level just yet. There's hope lol.

Weekly flyer deals

March 21, 2014, 7:20 am

≫ Next: Hard Candy Single & Loving It

≪ Previous: Rainbow Honey The Summer of 199x

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Shoppers: Contest card with $10 purchase, to win 10 million Optimum points
*** Saturday only: x20 points with $50 purchase
- Quo brushes: 40% off
- Garnier, Live Clean, Nip & Fab skin care: 40% off (rest of the week: 25% off)
- Clairol, Nice n Easy Root Touch-up, Natural Instincts/ L'Image hair colour: CAD5.99 (limit 4, after limit and rest of the week: CAD6.99).

*** All week:
- Neutrogena/ L'Oreal facial moisturizer: CAD19.99
- Neutrogena/ Olay facial moisturizer: CAD12.99
- Dr. Brandt skin care: 30% off
- Vichy Aqualia, Purete Thermale skin care: 25% off
- Avene Clean AC, Cleanance skin care: 20% off
- Clean & Clear/ Clearasil acne care: 20% off
- Vaseline (200 - 600ml) / Garnier (700ml) body lotion: CAD4.99
- Simple/ Cetaphil/ Life Brand skin care: 20% off
- Marcelle faical cleanser: CAD11.99
- Bioderma Sensibio H2O (500ml): CAD28.95
- Pantene hair care: CAD3.99
- got2b Studio hair spray, Marc Anthony/ Orgnx hair care: CAD6.99
- Maybelline Volume Express the Falsies mascara, Color Elixir: 15% off; Dream makeup: 20% off
- CoverGirl Flamed eye: CAD5.99
- CoverGirl Lash Blast mascara, lipstick, Smoochies, Smoothers makeup: 15% off
- L'Oreal Voluminous Butterfly mascara: 15% off: Double Extend mascara, Infallible liner, True Match makeup: 20% off
- Revlon Lash Potion mascara, ColorStay liner, Shadow Links: 15% off
- Rimmel gloss, Clean Finish foundation, Scandal Eyes eye: CAD5.99
- Physicians Formula: 20% off
- CoverGirl Outlast Stay Brilliant nail polish: CAD5.99
- Nicole by OPI nail polish: CAD5.99
- Sally Hansen Satin Glam, Sugar Shimmer nail polish, treatment: CAD6.99.

Lawtons: All locations seem to be rearranging their shelf, making space for Rimmel :) Don't forget, with $25 cosmetic purchase with your Airmiles card, you'll get an entry to win free cosmetic for a year
- L'Oreal RevitaLift skin care: 30% off
- Olay Total Effects skin care: 25% off; Fresh Effects skin care: 20% off
- Garnier Moisture Rescue cleanser: 25% off
- Neutrogena facial moisturizer: 25% off
- Marcelle cleanser, toner: 20% off (bonus miles)
- Neostrata Secure White, H2O skin care: 20% off (bonus miles)
- Avene skin care: 20% off (bonus miles)
- Vichy Normaderm skin care, ProEven, sun care: 20% off
- Bioderma: 20% off
- Montagne Jeunesse/ Maska/ Unison mask: 20% off
- L'Oreal Hair Expertise, Elnett hair spray: CAD5.99
- CoverGril mascara, Clean makeup: 25% off
- L'Oreal mascara: 25% off
- Maybelline Dream, Fit Me makeup: 20% off (bonus miles); mascara: 25% off
- Revlon mascara, ColorStay makeup: 30% off
- Annabelle eyeshadow: 20% off (bonus miles)
- Almay eyeshadow, mascara, liner, eye, brow, makeup remover: 20% off (bonus miles)
- Physicians Formula: 25% off
- LA Colors/ LA Girl: 20% off
- Milani: 20% off (bonus miles)
- L'Oreal nail polish: 25% off
- Revlon classic nail polish: CAD4.88 (bonus miles)
- Sally Hansen nail polish, treatment: 20% off
- Wet n Wild nail polish: 20% off
- Red Carpet manicure: 20% off
- Kiss nails: 25% off.

Walmart:
- L'Oreal Hair Expertise: CAD3.92
- L'Oreal Voluminous mascara: CAD5.96
- Maybelline the Falsies mascara with bonus eyeliner: CAD6.96.

Target:
- Revlon lip colour: CAD5.99 (the pic is of the ColorBurst matte/ lacquer balm)
- Maybelline Volume Express mascara: CAD4.99; BB cream: CAD7.49; other selected cosmetics: 25% off
- Neutrogena cleanser: CAD8.49
- Olay Total Effects moisturizer: CAD19.99
- L'Oreal Sublime bronzer, sun care: CAD12.99
- Organix hair care: CAD7.99
- Essie nail polish, treatment, Sleek sticks: CAD7.99.

The Body Shop: Moisture White Shiso is back, with a serum, target perfector, facial wash, moisture cream and cleansing oil.

The line is available online and selected stores only. Follow the link to see if your store is on the list :)

The Bay: I have one code (for online) or one card (for in store, you have to pick it up from me) to share for 20% off selected clothing, shoes, handbags, etc. AND 10% off cosmetics and fragrances, furniture, etc. (good until Sunday). Tweet me if you want it.

Farleyco: 20% off all Canadian orders, starting at 10:30 am EST today, for 24 hours only, with code "MARILYN". Shipping is $8.50 flat rate or free with $50 orders.

The Real Techniques sponge is available there, if you want it. It's going to be another few weeks until it hits the stores.

Illamasqua: B3G1F with code "1FORME" until March 31.

And lastly, I found FTBBeauty.ca, a site that carries some hard-to-find-to-Canadian products and brands - like NYX Butter glosses, Wet n Wild palettes, Milani, Real Techniques and bdellium tools brushes, Benjabelle etc..

I haven't personally ordered anything from them but thought I'd share the info (not affiliated with them). Shipping is flat rate of $7.99 (until their shipping cost module is fixed) or free on $100 orders.

On a separate note, if you are local, Burger Week (We Meat Again, lol) is still going on until Wednesday. To me, food (especially good food) is a beauty too, so I think it is relevant, for the purpose of this post.

Have you tried something good so far?

Hard Candy Single & Loving It

March 24, 2014, 6:19 am

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Hard Candy Spring 2014 release has hit Walmart Canada!

I grabbed the item that peaked my curiosity the most - Single and Loving It eyeshadows (fun name lol), the tie dye version, in Sweet Sorbet and Sandy Beach.

Unfortunately, they failed to impress me, both at the store and when I got home to compare them with the Stila Countless color pigments I own.

First off, the name: Hard Candy already launched Single and Loving It eyeshadows (Fall 2012) which were true single shades, no mixing colours in the pans. Recycling the name for a total different product confuses people.

Product design and pricing: Hard Candy's (new) Single and Loving It eyeshadows come in square pots with 0.05oz/ 1.5g of product, $2.98 a piece.

Stila Countless Color pigments are in round pots with 0.1oz/ 3g of product, $22/ CAD29 each regularly, now $8 on their website, pulling pretty close to Hard Candy's price point (per oz).

The shades I have:

- Acoustic and Finale (first row), full priced
- Light Show and Melody (second row), Center Stage and Encore (third row), $4 each (Beauty Bash sale).

Colour selections: Hard Candy has 6 shades, which show some similarity to Stila colour range (10 shades in total).
- Hard Candy Low Rise Jeans and Stila Tie Dye (pink, light blue & navy)
- Hard Candy World Peace and Stila Light Show (pictured, green & teal, minus the yellow)
- Hard Candy Grape Dane and Stila Melody (pictured, light & dark purple)
- Hard Candy Sweet Sorbet and Stila Indie (pink & purple)
- Hard Candy Oink! and Stila Encore (pictured, light pink & brown)
- Hard Candy Sandy Beach and Stila Groupie (light & dark brown).

A swatch of Sandy Beach tester in store hardly showed any pigmentation without building up and it wore off by the time I got home to take pics. I am sending them both back so no swatches, unfortunately. Now, on to the next item - the So Baked contour trios :)

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Vichy Neovadiol Magistral Elixir

March 25, 2014, 6:18 am

≫ Next: Red Carpet Manicure LED gel mani

≪ Previous: Hard Candy Single & Loving It

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At the beginning of the month, Vichy Neovadiol Magistral Elixir arrived at SB HQ and created quite some buzz right front and center.

The first buzz was that it is Vichy (a brand I have good luck with) and it is an oil for the face (a type of product I am very interested in at the moment)!  

Magistral Elixir is a reconstructing anti-aging concentrated oil with 10% Omega 3-6-9 for a firmer and smoother, luminous skin. Uh huh!

The second buzz was interestingly its targeted clientele - women in menopause or post-menopause! I am not there yet, but this is not the first time I tried a product outside my age range, so why not? Prevention is key, lol.

If your skin is heading toward the fragile state of tissue substance loss due to hormonal slowdown/ aging, it is time to start looking into something like this.

The third buzz are the oils in this bottle:
- Safflower seed oil: rich in omega 6 (72 - 80%, twice as much as argan oil) and omega 9, nourishing and softening
- Rice bran oil: high doses of omega 3, 6 and 9 (40 - 52%) and Gamma-oryzanol, a super antioxidant (4 times more than vitamin E)
- Shea butter: rich in omega 6 and 9 (42 - 51%) with soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

It definitely feels like an oil, coming out of the dropper, but turns into a satin finish with a subtle glow once I rub it in. It is not greasy on the face and does not take long to dry. The scent is light and luxurious, like most Vichy products.

Check out this beauty! The glass bottle is classy, the amber colour looks so good and the dropper is ideal in dealing with oils.

The last buzz is how to use it:
- As a serum: One drop for the whole face before  moisturizer. I have other serums to use and save this oil for better uses (below).
- As a balm: 2 drops mixed in a day/ night cream. The moisturizer turns into a thicker balm and offers deeper nourishment, like a luxurious spa treatment. I normally do this at night.
- As a mask: 6 to 8 drops all over the face. The brand suggests to wipe off the excess after 10 minutes but I head to bed with it and only wash off whatever is left in the morning. My face feels smooth and plump, like baby skin.

Ingredients: Caprylic/ Capric Triglyceride, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Butyrespermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Oryza Sativa (Rice Bran) Oil, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower Seed) Oil, BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene), Tocopherol, Capsicum Annuum (Fruit) Extract, Fragrance, F.I.L. B160931/2.

The oil is paraben free, suitable for sensitive skin, $58 for 30ml. Definitely an investment, but I appreciate the extra benefits it gives. If you are in your 20's or early 30's, you might not need Magistral Elixir just yet, but keep it in mind when the time comes :)

Red Carpet Manicure LED gel mani

March 26, 2014, 9:14 am

≫ Next: NOTD: RCM Midnight Affair

≪ Previous: Vichy Neovadiol Magistral Elixir

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Here we go, my first experiment with gel manicures :) I have been putting off trying them out until I received a system to review. This is Red Carpet Manicure Must Haves kit, $44.29 at Lawtons.

The kit has all the essentials for a LED gel polish application, minus the LED lamp:
- Prep Max adhesion sanitizer (9ml/ 0.3oz)
- Structure base coat gel (9ml/ 0.3oz)
- Brilliance seal & shine top coat gel (9ml/ 0.3oz)
- Revitalize nourishing cuticle oil (9ml/ 0.3oz)
- Purify pre & post application cleanser (60ml/ 2oz), and
- Erase gel nail polish remover (60ml/ 2oz).

At this point, I realize that there are more products/ steps involved in doing a LED gel manicure to exchange for a longer lasting power, and patience is a must lol. I have to go to the lamp so many times to get all my 10 fingers done, so don't start doing your mani at 10pm like I did the first time.

Application steps: use thin coats, curing each layer for 45 seconds with a LED light
- brush on Prep to clean nails. It dries lightning fast
- apply Structure to 4 nails (leave the thumb for last), cure. It is a lot thicker than a regular base coat, so cuticle flooding risk is high
- apply a LED gel polish (not part of the kit), cure, repeat for second coat
- apply Brilliance, cure. It is thinner than Structure, but still, use less than what you think you need
- remove tacky residue with Purify using a cotton pad.

Then that's it, the nails are dry and ready. No wait time, other than the wait during curing process. And no chipping in at least a week.

For removal:
- buff the nail surface to break the top coat seal
- saturate a cotton ball with Erase, wrap in aluminium foil on nails for 10-15 minutes
- unwrap, slide off cotton, gently scrape off remaining colour
- massage Revitalize into cuticles and nails.

This is another reason for me to do a gel mani, it takes a lot more to remove. I don't normally opt for the foil method, even with glitters. It all comes down to your preference - long lasting mani vs. time :) Stay tuned for the NOTDs I did with this kit.

I also received Red Carpet Manicure Crystal Gems in French Riviera with 600 Designer Austrian nail crystals and a picker, retails $9.99.

Gel polishes start out with just plain colours, so having these gems to bling up the mani is fun. I do prefer the glitters already mixed in with the polish, but I haven't seen glittery gel polishes just yet, so these will do :) Red Carpet Manicure does come out with shades with fine glitters, as you will see below.

Here are Red Carpet Manicure LED gel polish (on the left), from L-R: Black Stretch Limo, Midnight Affair and Best Dressed. Glitter gel nail polishes (on the right): I Can't Believe It, Make Up Time and Perfect High Heels. Each bottle is $12.99.

Stay tuned to see these colours on the nails soon.

NOTD: RCM Midnight Affair

March 27, 2014, 6:20 am

≫ Next: Weekly flyer deals

≪ Previous: Red Carpet Manicure LED gel mani

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It has already been a long day for me today, the day after the snow storm.

Early morning shoveling in the wind to dig myself out of the 40-cm snowdrift sure woke me up. But now I am yawning :)

They even cancelled school today for snow cleanup (so yeah, we got lots of snow), boo for Squirt!

Back to the topic, I dived into the pool of Red Carpet Manicure LED gel nail polish last week with Midnight Affair, a beautiful deep navy blue.

This is 2 coats, paired with all the treatments from the Must Haves kit - Prep, Structure and Brilliance. On my thumb is I Can't Believe It on its own. I didn't mean to steal the thunder from Midnight Affair, but I Can't Believe It is quite breathtaking :)

My LED lamp only has 30 and 60 second settings, but I managed to cure each layer for 45 seconds as suggested.

Purify on a cotton pad wiped away not only the stickiness at the end but also some blue colour, so I might do full 60 seconds next time.

Ignore the uneven application on the nails here, partly because I did the mani at 10pm :) Also, I tried not to bring the colour close to the cuticles to avoid it being cured on my skin. This for sure will take practice, I hope to be better at it as I do more NOTDs.

This mani is going on to day 6 and still looks brand new, all shiny and there is no chip at all! No nail breakage either. My nails have been breaking randomly with regular polishes and OPI Nail Envy as a base coat, so I am happy to see they are still in good shape after a week with gel polishes.

I am not thrilled with having to cure so many layers, but for once, I appreciate the effects :)

Weekly flyer deals

March 28, 2014, 6:24 am

≫ Next: Weekend finds

≪ Previous: NOTD: RCM Midnight Affair

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Shoppers: Essence Kalinka Beauty collection is supposed to be out now, I am curious :)

Also, scan your Optimum card when you purchase 2 Easter products March 29 - April 20 for a chance to win a $500 Shoppers gift card. One winner a week.

*** Saturday & Sunday: 2 free Cineplex tickets with $75 purchase
- Soap & Glory wash, scrub and body butter: B2G1F.

*** Monday - Friday: Free $10 Shoppers gift card with $50 purchase

*** All week:
- Tresemme/ got2b hair care: CAD3.99
- Garnier Fructis/ Herbal Essences Naked hair care: CAD2.99
- Orgnix hair care: CAD7.99
- L'Oreal Elnett, Hair Expertise hair care: CAD5.99
- Vichy Dercos hair, Homme, Normaderm skin care: 25% off; ProEven night treatment, Cellu Destock serum flash: x10 points
- Neostrata acne care: 20% off
- Avene Eluage, Serenage, Ystheral anti aging skin care: 20% off
- Strivectin-AR Advanced Retinol eye treatment: x20 points
- RoC Enydrial, Keops skin care: 20% off
- Bioderma Sebium purifying foaming gel (2x200ml): CAD24.95
- Marcelle Hydra-C skin care: 20% off
- RapidLash eyelash & brow: x10 points
- Olay Regenerist/ Pro X skin care: 25% off
- L'Oreal Sublime cleansing oil: CAD7.99; Sublime sun care/ Ombrelle: 20% off
- L'Oreal facial moisturizer: CAD21.99
- Clean & Clear facial cleanser: CAD6.99
- Aveeno/ Biore facial cleanser: CAD7.99
- Noxzema Triple Clean pads (90's), Dial body lotion (621ml), St. Ives skin care: CAD3.49
- Vaseline body butter, lotion: CAD5.99
- Jergens Natural Glow, daily moisturizer: CAD5.99
- Hydraluron, Nanoblur, Retinol Reface cream: 15% off
- Nivea/ Vaseline lip care: 20% off
- EoS lip balm, Burt's Bees lip care: CAD3.49
- L'Oreal Voluminous mascara, Colour Riche lip, Magic makeup: 30% off; Visible Lift makeup: 20% off
- CoverGirl Lip Perfection lip, CoverGirl & Olay makeup: 20% off
- CoverGirl Flamed Out eyeshadow pot, Smoochies: CAD4.99
- Revlon ColorStay, Age Defying, PhotoReady makeup: 30% off
- Revlon Grow Luscious/ Lash Potion/ PhotoReady mascara: CAD7.99
- Maybelline Instant Age Rewind makeup: 15% off
- Almay Color + Care liquid lip balm: CAD6.99
- Rimmel Lasting Finish Colour Rush balm, Scandal Eyes RetroGlam mascara: 15% off
- Gosh makeup, hair care, nail polish: x20 points
- Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear nail polish: CAD1.99; I Heart Nail Art kit, polish: CAD4.99; Triple Shine nail polish: CAD5.99
- Revlon nail polish, treatment: CAD5.99
- CoverGirl Outlast Stay Brilliant nail polish: CAD4.99
- Rimmel Salon Pro nail polish: CAD5.99
- Quo by Orly nail polish, gels: CAD8.99
- L'Oreal ExtraOrdinaire gel lacque: CAD8.99.

*** Bonus Optimum points, until April 18:
- x10 points with purchase of any Nexxus Youth Renewal product
- x10 points with purchase of any participating Luster product
- 500 points with purchase of 2 participating Pro-Namel products.

Until May 17:
- 1,000 points with purchase of La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5.

Lawtons: With every $25 cosmetic purchase with your Airmiles card in March, you'll get an entry to win free cosmetic for a year

Friday & Saturday: Super Bonus event - 2x Airmiles with $25 purchase or x10 Airmiles with $65 purchase.

- L'Oreal mascara, eyeliner: 20% off; lip: 25% off
- L'Oreal Color Riche quad: CAD7.99 (bonus Airmiles)
- Maybelline face: 25% off
- Maybelline Great Lash mascara: CAD4.99 (bonus miles); Kohl liner, Baby Lips: CAD3.88; Color Sensational lip: CAD6.99
- CoverGirl: 25% off
- Revlon/ Almay: 25% off (bonus miles)
- NYX matte lipstick: CAD6.99 (bonus miles)
- Bonne Bell Lip Smacker: 25% off (bonus miles)
- LA Colors/ LA Girl: 20% off
- Vichy 3-in-1 cleanser, Dermablend: 20% off
- Avene Antirougeurs redness relief skin care: 20% off (bonus miles)
- Neostrata acne care: 20% off (bonus miles)
- La Roche-Posay Effaclar/ Hydraphase/ Toleriane skin care: 20% off
- Marcelle Rivival skin care, BB, CC, DD: 25% off (bonus miles)
- L'Oreal Youth Code skin care: 30% off
- Neutrogena Healthy Skin Lift & Firm/ Radiance/ CC cream: 25% off; Rapid Wrinkle Repair skin care: CAD18.99
- Ombrelle sun care: 25% off
- Clean & Clear Morning Burst: CAD6.99
- Essie nail polish, treatment: CAD8.99
- OPI: 15% off
- Layla/ Color Club nail polish: 20% off (bonus miles)
- Nicole by OPI nail polish: CAD7.99
- Sinful Colors nail polish: 25% off
- Maybelline Color Show nail polish: CAD3.88
- Sally Hansen treatment: 20% off
- Ardelle lashes: CAD3.99 (bonus miles)

Sephora: VIB Rouge Spring Social closed-door shopping party is this Sunday, 9 - 11am (RSVP required): 15% off, an LE cosmetic bag, samples, etc.

If you can't make it to the event, the discount is in store (you need to print the email) or online with code "ROUGETICKET" between March 30 and April 11.

Walmart:
- CoverGirl Clump Crusher mascara: CAD6.97
- Maybelline Baby Lips Electro: CAD3.96; Fit Me shine free foundation: CAD5.96
- Revlon Super Lustrous lipstick: CAD5.96
- Amay Smart Shade mousse: CAD12.96
- Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition, styling: 2/CAD6.

Target:
- Simple skin care: 20% off
- Garnier Ultra-Lift Transformer: CAD18.99
- CoverGirl Bombshell: CAD7.99
- Maybelline Studio face: 20% off (the pic is of Master Glaze blush stick)
- Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear nail polish: CAD2.49.

The Bay: With a cosmetics or fragrance purchase $125 or more online until Sunday, you'll get a LE 16-piece gift, values up to $150.

By the look in the pic, the gift includes deluxe samples from various beauty brands and a chevron cosmetic bag.

Shipping is free with $29 cosmetics or fragrance purchase with Hudson's Bay credit card/ MasterCard.

Sears: Estee Lauder GWP of $36.50 or more until April 14. The gift values over $82, includes:
- Advanced Night Repair Recovery Complex II
- Your lip & eye shades - Subtle (Pure Color long lasting lipstick in Tiger Eye and Pure Color eyeshadow quad in Sandbar Beige, Nude Fresco, Sepia Sand and Wild Sable) or Bold (Pure Color long lasting lipstick in Rose Tea and Pure Color eyeshadow quad in Tranquil Moon, Tempting Mocha, Smoky Ember and Lavish Mink)
- Sumptuous Bold Volume lifting mascara in Black (10-day supply)
- Pleasures body lotion (deluxe travel size)
- A Lilly Pulitzer cosmetic bag and a pink comb.

With $80 purchase or more, you'll get extra 14-day supply of Day and Night moisturizers - Advanced Time Zone creme or Resilience Lift creme.

Spend $75 on Estee Lauder products with Sears credit card and receive a $25 Sears saving card, redeemable on fashion, footwear, jewelry, accessories or luggage purchase of $75 or more.

Bath and Body Works:
- All candles: BOGO
- New Signature body care: B3G3F
- New hand soaps: 6/CAD28 or 3/CAD18
- Sky/ Air/ Sun body care: CAD6
- Aromatherapy, True Blue Spa, C.O. Bigelow: B2G1F
- PocketBac: 3/CAD5
- Scentportable holders/ refills: B4G2F
- Liplicious, C.O. Bigelow lips: 3/CAD10
- Wallflowers bulbs: 4/CAD20.50, wallflowers plugs: BOGO
- Room perfume (1.5oz): CAD6.

The Body Shop: B3G3F or B2G1F everything, in store and online until Sunday.

Candles by Victoria: 20% off on orders of $50 or more on candles, melts, scent shots, etc. (not bath & body products) with code "easter", Saturday to Tuesday, April 1.

And the Easter Egg hunt runs all month of April with 25 Easter eggs being put in random orders, each comes with a gift certificate, values from $5 to $25.

Avon: Centennial Beauty Blogger box (direct link) with 6 products curated by 5 Canada's top bloggers (interestingly, no names were mentioned), $20 (values over $46):
- Mega Effects mascara in Black
- Ultra Color Absolute lipstick in Red Velvet
- Sprinkle Nails nail decorations in Purple Confetti (8g)
- Nailwear Pro nail polish in Luxe Lavender
- Anew Clinical Skinvincible Deep Recovery cream (7g) and
- Moisture Therapy Intensive healing & repair hand cream (45ml).

And for campaign 9, their SuperShock gel liner pencils are 2/CAD7.99 (reg. $10 each), good time to give them a try. Follow the link for a review and swatches.

Old Navy: Super Cash is on now until April 20, in store and online
- Earn $10 when you spend $25
- Earn $20 when you spend $50 or
- Earn $30 when you spend $75.
New levels online: Earn $40 when you spend $100, or earn $50 when you spend $125.

Redemption is between April 27 and May 5, in store and online, $10 for every $25 spent.

Ebates Canada: Luxury Week Double cash back event
- Saks Fifth Avenue, Coach, Bloomingdales: 3%
- Gilt, Banana Republic, Roots: 4%
- Barneys NewYork, the Bay, Ssense: 5%
- Shopbop.com, Club Monaco: 6%
- Tory Burch, Kate Spade: 7%
- Neiman Marcus, Stuart Weitzman: 8%
- Nordstrom: 8.5%
- Links London, TOMS: 10%, etc.

 As always, my link is on the left side bar if you need it.   

Weekend finds

March 31, 2014, 6:28 am

≫ Next: Cargo Ibiza & Moreton Bay

≪ Previous: Weekly flyer deals

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While the topic is still hot, what did you get from Sephora VIB Rouge Spring Social?

I grabbed Hourglass Ambient Lighting blush in Mood Exposure (CAD41) and Bite Beauty Matte Creme lip crayon in Sweety, a coral pink (LE, CAD28) - I actually wanted all 6 shades in the line lol.

Sephora Sand Illusions baked eyeshadow palette was near the checkout isle, CAD18, 6 x 0.023oz (0.138oz in total). It is a better deal than the Moonshadow baked palettes (CAD33 for 0.17oz total).

Sephora Define Yourself (LE) colour eyeliner set was a steal too, CAD38 (values $72) with 5 bright eyeliners (turquoise, purple, green, gold) in waterproof formulas. I wanted to try more 12hr wear Contour eye pencils and 12hr wear Jumbo liners too, so this set came in handy!

I braved the rain Sunday morning for the event, as I wanted to do lots of swatching before buying and I am glad I did.

I would be disappointed if I went for the freebies, as they aren't that impressive. Don't feel bad if you didn't make the event :)

The stripe cosmetic bag is small, probably fits a few items for touchup during the day. The samples (6 in total) are those free ones you normally get with an online order, size wise. I don't really care for those much.

Other retailers also had some fun sales going on.

Bath and Body Works and their famous BOGO sale on all candles sucked me in. This has been the best deal on their candles so far, works out to be $22.50 for 2.

I got Market Peach and London Calling, with beautiful special edition lids. I wanted to check out the Italian collection but they didn't get them in 3-wick size yet, only a few Mason jars.

I also found the little porcelain cake pedestal to display the mini candles. It is too cute to walk pass, even with a $11 price tag. Glad I had a coupon :)

Happened to walk in a Claire's shopping event, I was excited.

This was no ordinary sale! Same 10/$10 deal but they upgraded the regular extra 50% last ticketed price (for items of reg price over $11.50) to 75%!

They also brought out about 5 times as much stuff as usual. The items were still in plastic bags (not on the shelves), which required digging and sorting, but that was part of the fun :) After the event, they packed away more than 10 boxes to send off to storage.

Squirt and I went to town. What we found, besides earrings and necklaces: a studded denim backpack, fleece-lined leggings, Conair You Lift clips, a beaded ID holder, etc. Nothing was more than $2 :)

According to staff, the event is going to be hosted about once a month for this location only (Halifax Shopping Centre, as a test run) at this point. They can add your name to the calling list for next event :)

I told you a few weeks back about the online warehouse sale at Lise Watier.

The prices were great, I got quite a few items as gifts. Can't help showing you the beautiful packaging here :)

I bought both of the Glamour Rose eyes and cheeks palettes, only $10 each (reg. $45). The pink and purple gems embedded on the glittery case killed me and the colours inside were equally pretty.

On an oil kick, I had to get the Sensationelle dry oil to try, $12 (reg. $42). The bottle would make a beautiful piece on your vanity too.

La Senza is running their sale again - $3 panties and 50% off selected bras/ sleepwear, etc. I always stock up, but don't think you need a pic of the haul lol. What goodies did you get last weekend?

Cargo Ibiza & Moreton Bay

April 1, 2014, 6:29 am

≫ Next: FOTD: Cargo and Maybelline

≪ Previous: Weekend finds

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Happy April Fool's. If you want to see how much of a joke the weather has thrown on us, stay tuned till the end :)

2 Cargo items arrived in my latest CP package from the US a few weeks ago. The brand is pulling out of Ulta, hence a 50% off sale. I was happy when my friend found these.

It has been a while since I tried Cargo, didn't realize they changed the packaging. The new white box with silver letters feels luxurious. Inside, Cargo's signature tins still remain.

Here they are, Ibiza Swimmables water resistant blush and Moreton Bay eyeshadow.

I have always been curious about Cargo Swimmables water resistant blushes (reg. $26 for 0.37oz/ 11g) - with silicone coated powder to withstand water and L-lysine, an amino acid to increase the long wearing effect.

I can testify its claim to be weatherproof as it last all day on me, through rain, snow and everything in between. Haven't done any swimming since last summer, so I can't confirm that aspect yet lol.

The texture is close to a bouncy blush. It gives if you dip a finger in, but comes back to a flat surface when you swipe your brush on right after. Very interesting!

Ibiza is described as a shimmering hot pink. It definitely has shimmers (see swatches below) but on me, it becomes a cool toned pink. A little harder to wear on my skin tone.

Moreton Bay (reg. $16 for 0.12oz/ 3.5g). is a matte purple but shows up more red toned, quite pigmented and easy to blend thanks to the silica, jet milled talc, vitamin E and Aloe Vera in the formula. It can be used dry or wet, works double as a liner too. On top of a base, it shows minimal fading through the day.

Here are the swatches without a base in 2 different lighting, with my finger (on the left side of each pic) and with a brush (on the right side).

All in all, I am impressed with the quality of these two products, especially when I didn't have to pay full price for them, but wish the colours show up true to pan. Cargo is available on their website ($10 flat rate shipping to Canada), and selected Lawtons in the Maritimes.

It has been raining ice pellets since last night and still is right now. The sound of ice hitting my window was quite comforting to fall asleep with, but the commute this morning was nowhere near that comfort. And at some point over night, snow happened too!

This was how the little tree in my front lawn looked yesterday. Hard to see (look closely or enlarge the pic) but every single branch was wrapped with ice. Oh April, what happened to you?

This pretty much sums it up eh? Have a fun day out there, everyone!

FOTD: Cargo and Maybelline

April 2, 2014, 6:10 am

≫ Next: NOTD: Orly Star Trooper

≪ Previous: Cargo Ibiza & Moreton Bay

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A quick look I did a weekend or 2 ago while trying to chase the sun for some natural light, featuring the 2 Cargo products I reviewed yesterday.

Moreton Bay eyeshadow is on the eyes, over Maybelline Color Tattoo in Stroke of Midnight. I achieved the dark purple look I wanted.

On the cheeks is Ibiza Swimmables water resistant blush. It still looks cool toned on my cheeks the same way it did in the swatch (in the post linked above).

Still pretty impressed with the texture of the blush since the first time I tried it. Maybe this is why makeup is so much fun. Besides the colours, textures and finishes also enhance your imagination and curiosity. So, explore a little, don't stick with just one option. Just a thought :)

Other products I used:
- CoverGirl Clean whipped creme foundation in 320 Creamy Natural
-  Maybelline The Eraser Dark Spot concealer + treatment in Light/ Medium
- Maybelline Master Glaze blush stick in Barely Pink as a brow bone highlight
Didn't really work out very well, it looks bronze under my brows. Remains as a blush it would be lol
- Maybelline the Falsies Big Eyes mascara in Blackest Black
- Avon SuperShock gel eye liner pencil in Plumful on lower lash line
- Wet n Wild ColorIcon brow & eye liner in Dark Brown
- Clinique Different lipstick in A Different Grape
This lipstick was from a GWP pack quite a while ago, dark and smooth as I wanted. I have to remind myself to use the GWPs, especially when I went nuts shopping to get them :)

A huge thank you to all of your constant support on the blog. Sparkled Beauty passed one million pageviews last night, a month before its fifth birthday!

Don't know if you remember, I started the blog on Squirt's birthday back in 2009 so that I always celebrate big for both my children every year :)

Last year, Squirt turned 10 with a big karaoke and dance party. This year, 5 is a big milestone for the blog, and I would have to match the level of excitement. Stay tuned for one of the biggest giveaways next month!

Looking back, I can't imagine my life without the blog now. Sure it takes lots of time to run, but it gives back too. It is my outlet when I need to relax or seek comfort. It is where I can just be me. Thank you for joining this journey through life (with beautiful sparkly things) with me :)

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NOTD: Orly Star Trooper

April 3, 2014, 6:39 am

≫ Next: Weekly flyer deals

≪ Previous: FOTD: Cargo and Maybelline

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I am lost for words, why did it take me so long to try Orly Galaxy FX line?

Well, I do know why (I have been knee-deep in glitters lol) but I still question myself for skipping on the line until I found some at Sally clearance sale.

First Galaxy FX shade I tried, Star Trooper, is everything and more! A black jelly with micro/ medium gold glitters and small/ medium white glitters, which glows on top of a dark base. Don't think I need to explain further lol.

I used a plum underneath here (LA Girl Rock Star in Party Animal) and was in love already. Don't know if I can stand the awesomeness if I use a dark navy base, the mani would look like starry night sky :)

Which base would you go for if you have Star Trooper? I need ideas as I'm sure I will reach for it again.

The bonus is, 2 coats on its own (see my thumb), Star Trooper looks equally pretty. The gold glitters show up more in this case and tint the clear base a little, which I appreciate.

Need I say more with the closeup? Don't think so :)

How are you all doing with the first week of April? I think it is harder to digest the fact that it is April because it does not look like Spring outside.

On the positive side, Spring/ Summer makeup are making their way to stores. I have seen some makeup I definitely want to check out, but surprisingly, it is not the case for nail polish.

Which collection are you looking forward to this Spring?

Weekly flyer deals

April 4, 2014, 6:18 am

≫ Next: NOTD: Maybelline Lavish Lilac

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Shoppers:
*** Saturday - Tuesday: 18,500 points with $75 purchase
*** All week: Spend your points on fragrances: 65,000 points = $130
- Olay Total Effects skin care: CAD19.99
- Simple/ Olay Complete skin care: CAD9.99
- Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair moisturizer, Nivea skin care: 25% off
- L'Oreal skin care: 30% off
- Garnier facial moisturizer: CAD15.99
- Jergen Natural Glow, BB body cream: 20% off
- Avene skin care: 20% off
- Neostrata Firmalift skin care: 20% off
- Vichy skin care treatment: 25% off; LiftActiv skin care: 20% off
- Aveeno/ Neutrogena sun care: 20% off
- Coppertone spray, dry oil: CAD7.99; sun care: CAD8.99
- Australian Gold sun care: CAD8.99
- L'Oreal Elnett hair spray (400ml), Eversleek styling: CAD12.99
- Revlon ColorBurst lacquer balm: CAD7.99
- L'Oreal True Match makeup, Telescopic eye, Infallible eyeliner/ lip: 30% off
- Maybelline Instant Age Rewind, Fit Me: 25% off
- Maybelline eyeliner, Dream makeup: CAD6.99
- CoverGirl Flamed Out eye, Wetslick lip: CAD5.99; eyeshadow, Lip Perfection: CAD7.99; Clean Whipped creme foundation, Professional loose powder: CAD8.99
- Rimmel eye/ lip: CAD4.99; selected makeup: CAD6.99
- Sally Hansen Triple Shine/ Diamond Strength/ Insta-Dri nail polish: CAD4.99; Gel polish starter kit, gel nail polish, treatment: 20% off
- CoverGirl Outlast Stay Brilliant nail polish: CAD5.99
- Revlon nail polish: CAD4.99; nail art: CAD7.99
- Maybelline Color Show nail polish: 3/CAD9 or CAD3.99 each
- Essie nail polish: CAD7.99
- Sensational starter kit, gel polish, nail product: 20% off.

*** Bonus Optimum points, until April 18:
- x10 points with purchase of any Nexxus Youth Renewal product
- x10 points with purchase of any participating Luster product
- 1,000 points with purchase of 2 participating Listerine products
- 500 points with purchase of 2 participating Pro-Namel products.

Until May 17:
- 1,000 points with purchase of La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5.

Lawtons: Free Cineplex movie pass with $50 purchase until Sunday
- L'Oreal Colour Riche lipstick, lip liner, gloss: CAD7.99
- L'Oreal True Match: 25% off
- Revlon Super Lustrous lipstick, gloss, lip liner: CAD6.99
- Maybelline Baby Lips: CAD3.99
- Maybelline mascara: 25% off
- CoverGirl Simply Ageless: 20% off (bonus Airmiles)
- Annabelle: 25% off
- CoverGirl single blush, Professional mascara, Flamed Out eyeshadow: CAD3.99
- LA Colors/ LA GIrl: 50% off
- Mistura lip: 50% off
- Vichy cleanser, toner: CAD12.99
- Vichy ProEven skin care, sun care: 20% off
- La Roche-Posay skin care: 20% off (bonus miles)
- Aveeno facial moisturizer, cleanser: 25% off
- Garnier Clean+: CAD6.99
- Live Clean liquid hand soap/ body wash/ baby products: BOGO
- Herbacin hand cream: BOGO
- EcoTools brushes, accessories: 25% off (bonus miles)
- Revlon nail polish, beauty tool: 25% off (bonus miles)
- Maybelline Color Show nail polish: CAD3.99
- CoverGirl Outlast nail polish: CAD3.99
- L'Oreal nail product: 20% off (bonus miles)
- Sally Hansen Triple Shine nail polish: CAD5.99
- Wet n Wild nail polish: 20% off
- OPI nail polish: CAD8.99
- Essie nail polish, treatment: CAD8.99
- Red Carpet Manicure LED: 25% off.

Walmart: For every P&G product you buy in store or online in April, P&G will donate 1 day of clean drinking water (2 cents) to the Children's Safe Drinking Water Fund
- CoverGirl Clean liquid/ whipped creme foundation, pressed powder: CAD5.97; Clump Crusher/ Lash Blast Volume/ Fusion mascara, Liquiline Blast eyeliner: CAD6.97
- Maybelline Pumped Up Colossal Volume Express mascara: CAD6.96
- Olay Fresh Effects skin care: CAD6.97.

Target:
- CoverGirl (selected items): CAD6.99
- Revlon/ Almay (selected items): CAD5.99
- L'Oreal (selected items): 20% off
- Olay Regenerist moisturizer: CAD28.49
- L'Oreal Elnett hair spry: CAD9.99
- Sally Hansen Diamond Strength nail polish: CAD3.99; Complete Salon nail polish: CAD6.99.

Sephora: So they decided to include VIBs and IBs in this sale, with shorter time frame to shop than it was for VIB Rouges.

So, here's how it goes for 15% off:
- VIB Rouges: "ROUGETICKET" until April 11
- VIBs: "VIBTICKET" until April 11
- IBs: "TICKET" until April 10.

I assume you will receive an email to print out for in store. Hope you all can get your lemmings in on time :)

Sally: BOGO hair care (excluding hair colour) until Sunday, limit 3 per customer.

*** B2G1F all month of April
- Nail polish and soak-off gel polish: mix & match, excluding OPI and polish kits
- One 'n Only Argan Oil hair care
- Ardell/ Andrea lashes & adhesive.
Free Retro Resort tote with $45 purchase.

The Bay: F&F sale is on until Sunday
- Extra 20% off almost anything with Hudson's Bay credit card/ MasterCard (or 15% with other tenders)
- Extra 10% off furniture, mattresses, appliances, etc. with any tender.

Exclusions apply, including beauty products.

Clarins GWP of 2 products, one of which is skin care until April 22. The 5-piece gift, values up to $195, is customized to your needs. With a purchase of 1 additional skin care product, you receive the Eye Revive Beauty Flash (20ml).

In store only, when you book a complimentary 15-minute personalized eye treatment, you'll receive an Instant Eye makeup remover (30ml).

A bonus gift until Saturday: Hand and Nail treatment cream (30ml).

Until Sunday, with a Clarins purchase of $75 or more using Hudson's Bay credit card/ MasterCard, you'll get a $20 saving card, redeemable on your next purchase of $100 or more (excluding cosmetics/ fragrances) with Hudson's Bay credit card/ MasterCard until April 22.

Marcelle/ Annabelle: If you live in the area, the Spring warehouse sale starts today, going on until Sunday, then starts again the weekend after (April 11 - 13).

Clinique Canada: Free shipping (no minimum) all month of April.

The Body Shop:
- 40% off sitewide, and free shipping with $50 orders
- B3G3F or B2G1F in store, with exclusions.

The Vitamin E serum in oil is still $10 off for LYB members (code "LOVEYOURBODY10" online).

Bath and Body Works:
- 3-wick candles: 2/CAD34, mini candles: 3/CAD10, Mason jar candles: 2/CAD18
- Signature body care: B3G4F
- New hand soaps: CAD3.50
- Aromatherapy, True Blue Spa, C.O. Bigelow: B2G1F
- PocketBac: 3/CAD5
- Liplicious, C.O. Bigelow lips: 3/CAD10
- Wallflowers bulbs: 4/CAD20.50, wallflowers plugs: BOGO
- Scentportable holder: BOGO
- Room perfume (1.5oz): CAD6.

La Senza: until Saturday, in store only, using this coupon
- 40% off $100 purchase
- 30% off $75 purchase
- 20% off $50 purchase
on regular price merchandise only. I did get 40% off with items on special (like BOGO1/2) before, guess they change the terms now.

Ebates Canada: Sports & Outdoor Double cash back event
- ebay: 2%
- The Shopping Chanel: 3%
- Walmart: up to 4%
- Home Depot, Roots: 4%
- Sears: up to 5%
- Sportchek: 6%, etc.

 As always, my link is on the left side bar if you need it.    

NOTD: Maybelline Lavish Lilac

April 10, 2014, 8:14 am

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Omg, I was out of town for a few days and the blog was neglected. There was just not enough time in a day, unfortunately. I did have some great time hanging out with friends and enjoy the sunny (and rainy at times) Toronto :)

This mani is special, at least to me, as I wore it twice in a row. This does not happen often, you know me. It is Maybelline Color Show in Lavish Lilac from the Brocades collection.

When the Brocades came out, I was too busy gushing over Gilded Rose and overlooked this purple beauty. I'm glad I bought more than just one shade.

The metallic sheen theme holds true with almost all shades, so it all boils down to the glitter and base colour combinations. And Lavish Lilac does it for me.

This is two coats of Lavish Lilac, no base. I am super happy with the base colours (lilac and gold shimmers) and the pigmentation.

The darker purple glitters are dense enough that I can just apply the polish as usual, no fishing or dabbing needed. And they don't feel abrasive on the nails either.

The closeup shows you the complexity of this nail polish. Despite my description above, it has a lot more depth in different colours. You just have to put it on your nails to see its glory.

The only sad thing is I think this collection is Limited Edition, so it will be hard to come by, except for Gilded Rose making a comeback to the regular display. If you happen to come across the line, get at least a few to try. They are great!

How is your week so far? I can't complain after so much good food and fun I had, but it does feel like a super short week and I have so much to blog about still.

Weekly flyer deals

April 11, 2014, 7:34 am

≫ Next: Real Techniques 2014

≪ Previous: NOTD: Maybelline Lavish Lilac

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Shoppers: Spend your Points event on Saturday and Sunday
- 38,000 points = $70 (extra $10)
- 50,000 points = $100 (extra $15) or
- 95,000 points = $200 (extra $30).

*** The flyer this week is only good until Thursday instead of Friday
- Maybelline Baby Lips: CAD3.99; Color Sensational lip, Volume Express mascara: CAD6.99; Elixir, Fit Me: CAD8.99
- CoverGirl Lash Blast mascara: CAD6.99; Smoochies: 2/CAD9.99 or CAD6.99 each; Outlast lip, Advanced Radiance, True Blend: CAD12.99
- Revlon Age Defying Firming + Lifting makeup: 30% off
- Annabelle eye: CAD7.99
- Almay Smart Shade: 30% off
- Physicians Formula bronzer: 30% off
- Rimmel (selected items): CAD5.99
- L'Oreal facial moisturizer: CAD24.99
- Olay Total Effects, Regenerist, Age Defying skin care: 20% off
- Neutrogena acne/ Garnier facial cleanser: CAD7.99
- Neostrata anti-aging skin care: 20% off
- Bioderma/ RoC skin care: 20% off
- Life Brand/ Balea hair removal, skin care: 25% off
- L'Oreal Ever, Elnett / John Frieda hair care: CAD6.99
- L'Oreal Hair Expertise/ Vidal Sassoon hair care: CAD3.99
- Maybelline Color Show nail polish: CAD3.99
- Revlon nail polish: CAD3.99
- CoverGirl Outlast Stay Brilliant nail polish: CAD4.99
- Rimmel Salon Pro nail polish: CAD5.99
- Sally Hansen Complete Salon nail polish, Salon Effect nail polish strips, treatment: CAD8.99
- Quo by Orly Gels starter kit, LED lamp: 20% off
- Ceramic Glaze/ Nails Inc nail polish: CAD10.99.

*** Optimum hot spots: x20 points
- Strivectin/ Avene/ Burt's Bees skin care
- Quo by Orly nail polish, treatment
- Revlon by Marchesa implements
- Nexxus/ Marc Anthony Salon Expert hair care
- Solutions hair appliances
- Sonicare power toothbrush
- Bella jewelry, etc.

*** Bonus Optimum points, until April 18:
- x10 points with purchase of any Nexxus Youth Renewal product
- x10 points with purchase of any participating Luster product
- 1,000 points with purchase of 2 participating Listerine products
- 500 points with purchase of 2 participating Pro-Namel products.

Until May 17:
- 1,000 points with purchase of La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5.

Lawtons: Tuesday to Thursday: Free $10 Sobeys/ Foodland or $10 Lawtons gift card with $50 purchase
- CoverGirl: 40% off
- Cargo: 20% off (bonus Airmiles)
- Annabelle/ Marcelle/ NYX/ Revlon/ Almay/ Real Techniques/ EcoTools/ Styli-Style/ H2O/ Vasanti/ Milani/ Layla/ Kiss/ Broadway/ Ardell/ Seche: bonus miles
- Vichy/ La Roche-Posay skin care: 20% off (bonus miles)
- L'Oreal Sublime cleansing products: CAD7.99
- Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair skin care: CAD18.99; Deep Clean: 20% off
- Eucerin skin care: 20% off
- Organix hair care: 20% off
- EoS lip balm: CAD2.99.

Walmart:
- L'Oreal Voluminous mascara: CAD5.96
- Maybelline Mega Plush Velvet mascara: CAD6.96; Baby Skin Pore eraser: CAD8.96
- Pond's cold cream, towelettes (2-pack): CAD6.76
- L'Oreal Hair Expertise: CAD3.92.

Superstore:
- Maybeline khol liner: CAD3; Volume Express mascara: CAD5.97; Baby Skin Pore eraser, Elixir: CAD7.97
- CoverGirl Clean Whipped creme foundation: CAD5.97; Lash Blast mascara, Perfect Point liner: CAD6.97; TruBlend: CAD10.97
- L'Oreal Voluminous mascara: CAD6.97; Infallible Superliner Silkissimo eyeliner: CAD7.97; True Match: CAD10.97
- Joe Fresh Long Wear lipstick, tinted lip balm: CAD7
- Rimmel Lasting Finish lipstick, Colour Rush lip balm: CAD4.98
- Physicians Formula Organic Wear CC mascara: CAD9.47; Powder Super CC+: CAD11.97; Super BB kit: CAD12.97
- Maybeline Color Show nail polish: CAD3
- CoverGirl Outlast nail polish: CAD4.97
- Sally Hansen Triple Shine, Satin Glam, Sugar Shimmer: CAD5.97
- Nicole by OPI, Essie nail polish: CAD8.97
- L'Oreal Gel Lacquer colour: CAD7.97; Gel Lacquer base/ top coat kit: CAD12.97

Target:
- Maybelline (selected items): CAD3.99; Volume Express mascara: CAD4.99
- CoverGirl (selected items): 3/CAD12; other selected items: CAD5.99
- Pixi shea lip butter: CAD7; others: 10% off
- L'Oreal skin care: CAD7.99 - CAD33.99, free $5 Target gift card when you buy 2
- L'Oreal hair care: free $5 Target gift card when you buy3
- Pantene hair care: free $5 Target gift card when you buy 2
- Sally Hansen Insta-Dri nail polish: 2/CAD7.

Sephora: Last day of VIB and VIB Rouge sale today, if you haven't got your stuff already.

The Bay: Lancome GWP of $35 or more until May 4. The 8-piece gift values up to $190, includes: your choice of serum, skin care duo, makeup shades and cosmetic bag, plus a mascara and eye makeup remover.

With any Lancome purchase of $95 or more, you'll get an additional full sized Nutrix Royal body lotion.

Until Sunday, with a Lancome purchase of $75 or more using Hudson's Bay credit card/ MasterCard, you'll get a $20 saving card, redeemable on your next purchase of $100 or more (excluding cosmetics/ fragrances) with Hudson's Bay credit card/ MasterCard until April 20.

Bay Days are on now with sales across departments. Follow the link for info on discounts.

Bath and Body Works:
- 3-wick candles: 2/CAD25.50, mini candles: 3/CAD10
- Signature body care: B3G3F
- New hand soaps: 6/CAD28 or 3/CAD18
- Aromatherapy, True Blue Spa, C.O. Bigelow: B2G1F
- PocketBac: 3/CAD5
- Liplicious, C.O. Bigelow lips: 3/CAD10
- Wallflowers bulbs: 4/CAD20.50, wallflowers plugs: BOGO
- Scentportable holder: BOGO
- Room perfume (1.5oz): CAD6
- Aloha Straw Tote gift set: CAD35.

The Body Shop: Double discount (20%) and x2 points for LYB members until Sunday, in store and online.

Ongoing promotions: B2G1F or B1G1 50% off mix & match and 50% off hand cream ($10 now).

Ebates Canada: Spring Fashion Frenzy Double cash back event
- Beyond the Rack: 2%
- The Shopping Chanel: 3%
- GAP, Banana Republic, Roots, American Eagle: 4%
- Sears: up to 5%
- The Bay, Forever 21: 5%
- Club Monaco, Ardene, Garage, Dynamite, Macy's, Madewell: 6%
- Kate Spade, BUffalo David Bitton, Mexx: 7%
- Aldo, Neiman Marcus, Le Chateau, Asos: 8%
- Nordstrom: 8.5%
- TOMS: 10%, etc.

 As always, my link is on the left side bar if you need it.

Real Techniques 2014

April 14, 2014, 7:03 am

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You might have heard a lot about Real Techniques new products for 2014, and they finally hit Canadian market!

A PR package arrived at SB HQ with two of the most anticipated items - the Miracle Complexion sponge and the Silicone eyeliner brush. Excitement overload!

I am happy to see Nic has joined Sam to develop this new line of products for Real Techniques (their picture together is now on the packaging). The brand started out with Sam's pure efforts, and now with both the pixiwoo sisters, we can definitely expect more creative products like these.

Real Techniques Miracle Complexion sponge has been talked about so much everywhere we look :) And yes, it is a great product, with distinct features, to create a flawless finish with your foundation and/or concealer.

Here it is nestled comfortable in the plastic cradle that comes with the packaging.

Like most of its predecessors, this orange sponge has rounded sides for large areas of the face and precision tip for blemishes and imperfections. And we have seen these features work so well in the past.

What sets the sponge apart is the flat edge for the contours around the eyes and nose.

For comparison, the Beauty Blender sponge (CAD26 or 2/CAD34) does not have the flat edge and the Sephora Sculptor sponge (CAD16) does not have the precision tip.

We have seen how well those flat top kabuki brushes do. I have taken full advantage of the flat edge in this sponge and have no doubt it would earn itself a HG status too.

When I see how fluffy and big Real Techniques Miracle Complexion sponge became when wet, I couldn't help getting my Beauty Blender wet to compare the size. So here they are side by side, both wet.

Real Techniques sponge is slightly longer and less rounded, easier to hold, in my opinion.

And needless to say, with a $9.99 price tag, Real Techniques Miracle Complexion sponge is easily a must have for lots of us. The Beauty Blender is great in its own right, just not as budget friendly.

Another product that peaked people's interest when it came out in the US is Real Techniques Silicone eyeliner brush, $8.99.

Sam and Nic's intention for this brush is smooth and precise application with liquid or cream eyeliner. The silicone bristles grab the product well but requires more of it than with a regular liner brush. Cleaning afterward is a breeze though, simply a swipe of a makeup wipe would do.

Application is, however, not as easy as it looks, at least to me.

Sam's tip (printed on the box) is to apply product to the length of the brush instead of the tip, angle the brush sideways (parallel to the eye line) to apply product.

That makes sense, as the tip is very fine and pointed. But even with using the side, I could not manage to make sharp lines with this brush. Maybe it is my poor skill with eyeliners, but the bristles are just not firm enough for me to have any control over them.

Proof in the swatches here. Real Techniques Silicone eyeliner brush on the left and a regular angled liner brush in the middle with the same gel liner, in comparison with Milani Eye Tech Extreme liquid eyeliner in Blackest Black on the right.

I would say if you are a master in handling liner brushes, this would be a fun brush to try. If you are new to lining your eyes, I would stick with a liquid liner or the traditional liner brushes.

Also new at Real Techniques in 2014 are Retractable bronzer brush $19.99, Retractable kabuki brush $12.99 and Retractable lip brush $8.99.

Real Techniques is available at Lawtons, London Drugs, Walmart, selected Pharmasale and Familiprix and online at Farleyco.