Review: tarte Smooth Operator Tinted Moisturizer.

Hey everyone!

So, I recently tried the tarte Smoother Operator Tinted Moisturizer after hearing all the positive things about it. I haven't had the best luck with tinted moisturizers as I don't have the best skin, so, while I like the idea of a lightweight foundation that diffuses your flaws while feeling like you aren't wearing makeup, I dislike the fact that a majority of my acne-scarring shows through.



Smooth Operator used to be known as one of tarte's foundations, but after a packaging change and an increase in shades, they finally changed the name to tinted moisturizer. I'm not sure if I agree with this. The coverage is light and definitely on the heavy side of light, but it still feels like a tinted moisturizer. Complaints? None here!

This tinted moisturizer is oil-free, so, it's good for combination, oily, or acne-prone skin types, offers SPF 20, and has become a really big favorite of mine. I love using it and setting it with either a light dusting of mineral makeup (Origins Multi-grain review coming soon!) or a pressed foundation like my Make Up For Ever Duo Mat, as they just give me just the amount of coverage without heaving powder makeup or heavy liquid makeup.

$36 isn't cheap for a tinted moisturizer, but be sure to purchase off of tarte's website, as there are always coupon codes floating around online for tarte (at least 30% off normally!) I suggest heading into Sephora, swatching some shades or get a sample, then ordering off of tarte's website. That's your best option!

Josh <3

Review: Make Up For Ever Aqua Creams.

Hi there!

I told you I'd be sticking around doing some reviews, didn't I? Well I didn't lie!

Make Up For Ever has their newest waterproof innovation taking the world by storm -- Aqua Creams! These products, similar to MAC Creme Color Bases but much more pigmented and creamier/less greasy, are waterproof, long-wearing, and intense! They currently come in 22 different shades (I can see them extending the range soon!).

Make Up For Ever designates these products for either Eye and Cheek or Lip and Cheek, however, I think it's totally up to the user. I have two colors -- 13, Warm Beige (Intended for eyes and cheeks but I could see it being a nudeish lipcolor) and 10, Orange...a very vivid orange intended for Lips and Cheeks, though I've definitely used it as an eyeliner and love it!

The lasting power on these is amazing and I quite love them! I've used them on eyes and cheeks and both places seem to keep the product on very easily and I hear the same holds true for lips. I'll be testing their waterproof ability to the fullest when I go to the beach this weekend as well!

I'd definitely recommend these to anyone -- I plan on picking up more shades soon! Aqua Creams retail for $22 at Sephora.com and Sephora stores -- look for the boxed set in Sephora or online now containing two Aqua Creams, Aqua Eyes Liners, and a tube of Waterproof Smokey Lash as well!

Josh <3

I'm back with some mini-reviews!

Hi everyone! :]

So, I'm finally back after being gone for so long! I just moved, took a new job, and I'm trying to get my life on a new track, so, needless to say, my life was pretty hectic! Now that I'm all moved though, I've got some free time again, so, I wanted to continue making blog posts.

I've tried a lot of new things, so, I haven't the slightest clue to get started, but I'm going to try and make this a summary. Let's go with this: I'm going to post a mini-review of 5 products I've tried recently that I loved. Sound okay? Good! Here we go!

1. Retin-A Micro
Now, I'm aware this isn't a product you can buy in stores, but it's been a lifesaver for me, so, I had to make it my number one. I started Retin-A Micro in late March as a treatment for my cystic acne and acne-scarring. Since then, I've seen nothing but improvement. Rarely ever do I get a cystic blemish anymore and on top of that, I hardly break out to the level I used to. My skin is looking a lot more even, but Retin-A Micro will keep working at any scarring I still have. Yes, I did have dryness the first two weeks I was on it, but I highly recommend you bring this product up with your dermatologist if you're facing problems with cystic acne.

2. Make Up For Ever Duo Mat Foundation
This foundation is a pressed powder foundation and it's something I've literally almost used up the whole thing -- I'm scrapping up the sides of the bottom of the pan now! Right now, I'm using it as a setting powder for when I wear a Tinted Moisturizer, but I have used it as a foundation alone and it works wonderfully for oily skin. The shade doesn't match me completely, but it's close enough where it's not a problem. If you're oily, give this a shot!

3. MAC Mylar Eyeshadow
Mylar is a matte eyeshadow that is a mixture between a fleshtone and a white, it's actually just a tad lighter than my NC15 skin, so, it makes for the perfect highlight under my browbone. I catch myself reaching for this every day and I definitely see myself repurchasing this.

4. Revlon Lash Fantasy Mascara
This mascara is a double-ended mascara, one side primer, the other typical mascara, but I find that this is much more defining than any other two-sided mascara I've tried. My long lashes tend to be easily clump prone, but both sides are plastic bristled brushes, so, I don't get clumps! It adds major length and holds a curl very well. Definitely recommend this.

5. Clarisonic Mia
So, I join the many who are proud owners of a Clarisonic facial brush! This totally removes all my makeup and definitely leave my skin super smooth. I use this every night to remove my makeup and it never irritates my skin (Don't press it into your face, let the brush do the work!) The pores around and on my nose look much smaller and I don't think I want to live without this ever again!

So, there you have it! Look for much more frequent reviews and posts to come!

Josh <3