Product Review: Amore Milani Matte Lip Crème

Milani Amore Matte Lip Cremes: (l to r) Embrace, Beloved, Lust

I recently picked up some of the Milani Matte Lip Cremes and finally had the time to play in makeup and wear them last weekend. It wasn't the easiest to find them in my area, and ultimately I was only able to get 3 of the 8 colors that are available. At the price of $2.99 (yes they were on sale in CVS) I'm not surprised they were so hard to find, however I was hoping the makeup gods were going to be in my favor.

For more information and a detailed review keep reading...

Influenster Haul: Wellness VoxBox

Recently I was going through some emails and saw that Influenster had sent me an email to complete a survey. Bored, and having nothing else to do, I completed said survey(s) after what seemed to take me about 20-30 minutes.

I didn't think anything of it, until I got another email maybe a week later indicating that I needed to check the mail for a box of products. Well color me surprised! I got home that very day to find a box full of goodies on my doorstep. This was my first time receiving a box from Influenster and  I wasn't expecting full sized products.

This particular box was their Wellness box. It included an array of things to include face wash, skin moisturizer, mouth wash, pain relief samples, as well as a 2 n 1 shampoo and body wash.

Here is what is inside of the Wellness VoxBox

contents of Influenster Wellness VoxBox

I have started using the products and will do a full review (on the blog as well as Periscope) some time next week. Some of them I love, others, not so much.

My Top 5 Mascaras

Mascara is a magical thing to me. I'm completely obsessed how a tube of black gook and a wand can make your lashes extend, curl and plump. Mind boggling to me.

I naturally have long lashes, and for that reason most days will not wear false ones. However, I love putting emphasis on my lashes and really making my eyes pop, so mascara is always a must for me. I also wear glasses most days and need something to peek over the frames.

I have 5 favorite mascaras that help me achieve the most eye opening, sexy and flirty lashes that I like. Check them out below.

C.O. Beauty: My Top 5 Mascaras by candiceobeauty featuring Clinique

Read on for quick reviews

ULTA Haul: Under $50

A couple of weeks ago I found myself wandering around town waiting for my friend to get home. I knew I wanted to go to an ULTA that day but didn't know there was one by her house. Low and behold, I found one and decided to take a loop around.

While in there I got a few things, and just knew my total was going to be sky high, because that's what always happens to me. To my surprise I didn't even spend $50! Now I consider that a major accomplishment for a product junkie. You all know how it goes.

C O Beauty: ULTA Haul under $50 by candiceobeauty featuring a gel mask

If you want to see quick reviews of the products keep reading

REVIEW: Milani Rose Powder Blush

I was very excited when Cocotique reached out to me and asked me to review the Milani Rose Powder blush collection as I am completely obsessed with blush! When I opened the packaged I gasped and let out an audible “EEK!” The blushes were absolutely amazing. I couldn't wait to pop the seal and see what they were all about.

The first thing that I noticed was the packaging which was beyond beautiful. I really loved the rose imprint on each of the blushes. What also was amazing to me was the size of each blush. They are enormous. I immediately flipped them over to see how many ounces they were. As Milani stated on their site “gorgeous in the compact and even prettier on the cheeks” and they weren't lying.

Here are a few key things to note about the blushes:

• Retails for $8.49
• 3 beautiful colors that can be worn on a range of complexions
• .60 oz. (3 times the size/amount of your average M.A.C. blush)
• Matte finish
• Sheer application but buildable!

Overall I was very impressed with the Milani Rose Powder Blushes and these will most certainly be a kit staple for the bridal and beauty work that I do. You will get a lot of bang for your buck with this product. I really feel that these blushes are a must have, whether you’re in love with blush like myself, or want to start getting into wearing blush. Read my full review here on Cocotique. 

S

Product Review: Black Radiance Fine Line Liquid Eyeliner Pen

BLACK RADIANCE FINE LINE LIQUID EYELINER PEN

Brand: Black Radiance
Price: $4
Place of Purchase: CVS
Product Description: Defines eye with a flawlessly clean line. The soft felt tip provides precise contouring in just one stroke. For well defined eyes that last all day, apply a thin delicate line. For a more dramatic look, go bold with a thicker line

I was on the hunt for different eye liners and never tried a felt tip liner. During a trip to CVS for makeup wipes of course I left with more. I picked up the Black Radiance Fine Line Liquid Eyeliner Pen in black.

Initial Thoughts: I will just cut to the chase. This is a horrible product and I would not suggest it to anyone ever. It's not even a shoddy substitute for anything acceptable to use as a liquid liner. The line that it produces is so faint, and what little product comes out you can rub it away with one swipe. If I'm ever going to buy a black liner I want it to be BLACK and very intense for a reason.

I think the only thing I would be able to use this for is if I were to try and create a fake mole on my face (and even that is a stretch). I was completely upset that I wasted my money on such a product. In the trash it goes.

Has anyone ever tried this product before? If so what are your thoughts?

 

*peace love & couture*

Candice Olivia 

Holiday Wishlist: Smashbox Master Class Palette

I recently had the pleasure of assisting with a fabulous wedding and i was able to use the Smashbox Master Class Palette. If you're an aspiring artist, already a pro, or just want the perfect palette this is a must have for your kit. It's absolutely wonderful for bridal when doing bridesmaids because it has many of the most used colors that are requested. It doesn't take up much space and gives you literally everything you need for a face minus foundation and setting powders.

For more information about the palette read after the jump

Product Review: MUFE Mat Velvet Matifying Foundation

I know I haven't posted in a month of Sundays, so you know I have to be in love with a product if I was compelled to do a full blog post review. I recently purchased MUFE Mat Velvet Matifying Foundation from Sephora and I'm completely in love. I've been using it for about 2 weeks now and I don't have any complaints.

MUFE Mat Velvet Matifying Foundation in #70

For a full review read more after the jump

Product Review: Juice Beauty Blemish Clearing Serum

I received a sample of Juice Beauty's Blemish Clearing Serum in my February Birchbox and decided to give it a try. As I've previously mentioned I'm not wearing as much makeup as I normally would and when I do I'm going for very natural faces. Clear skin and blemish control is the foundation for a flawless face if you ask me, therefore I've been focusing a lot on skincare.

I wash my face daily with Bliss Fabulous Foaming Face Wash, follow with the blemish control serum and then moisturize with my Olay moisturizer with SPF. After on 3 days I noticed that the few blemishes I had cleared up. Bumps went away, as well as dark spots. I was completely sold. So I continued to use it every day until my little sample ran out.

Once my sample ran out I was freaking out to say the least and noticed that in about 3 days small blemishes started to surface again. It was at that point I knew I would have to break my tight budget and spend the $29 for the full size bottle.

FTC Disclosure: I purchased the product with my own money. These opinions are my own. This is not a sponsored post.

xo

Candice Olivia

Product Review: MAC Studio Sculpt Foundation

I have a product review for the MAC Studio Sculpt foundation. I wanted to try something different than the MAC Select foundation I had been using for quite some time. I wanted a new color (I thought my old color was too light) and something with a bit more coverage.

The associate at the counter led me to the Studio Sculpt and test NW43 and it blended in perfectly. She also gave me the Mineralize Skinfinish Natural in Medium Dark to set the foundation. I've been wearing the foundation with my normal makeup routine for the past 3 weeks or so and here are my thoughts.

Here are details about the foundation:

A creamy, luxurious, gel-based foundation that provides medium buildable to high coverage with a natural satin finish. Hydrating, instantly revitalizes the skin while keeping it looking smooth, soft and plush. Long-wearing, water-resistant.

This product is best match for dry to normal skins types. Provides medium to full coverage upon application. The finish is lovely, luminous, highly pigmented and nice to work with. Pea size does all the work, hence product lasts long. If you have oily skin I highly recommend you stay away from this product.

Initially I liked the coverage but over time I have found that it's actually too heavy for my liking. I only apply the foundation sparingly and I can actually feel in on my skin. Not good. I have also noticed that my skin has broken out all over (forehead, cheeks and chin). This is definitely not good! Overall I'm not opposed to the foundation but I would not use it as an every day foundation. I just don't need that much coverage.

Pros:

• SPF 15
• packaging (eliminates waste and mess)
• buildable coverage
• minimal amount of product needed (pea size)

Cons:

• Price
• If applied wrong too cakey and heavy
• making my skin break out (results may differ)

**FTC Disclosure** Products were not provided by an outside company. Product was purchased with my own money. Opinions are my own.

Product Review: Maybelline Fit Me Foundation

Maybelline Fit Me Fountaion

Description:
Flawless makeup that let's the real  you come through. Fresh, breathing, natural skin that has an SPF of 18. Exclusive translucent base and ultra-lightweight pigments allow your skin’s natural tone to come through while still providing forgiving, breathable coverage. 

I wanted to try the liquid foundation since that is the formula that I prefer for my skin that tends to be quite dry. I opened a bottle and put a dab on my hand and blended it in. It was very sheer and matched perfectly. I had to get it. I got the color 350 which is "caramel". The darkest color is 355 which is "coconut".

D.J.V. Beautenizer Fiberwig LX Mascara

d.j.v. Beautenizer Fiberwig LX

What it is:
A false lash formula that's applied like mascara and encapsulates lashes within a fiber-rich film.

What it does:
This glossy, black formula contains double the fibers to lengthen lashes. As the formula goes on smoothly without clumping, it gives the appearance of naturally longer lashes and forms a film coating that prevents smudging caused by oils and perspiration. The active ingredients consist of several natural botanical essences, a silky fiber ingredient, and panthenol to help nourish and strengthen lashes.

What else you need to know:
Easy removal with warm water, which loosens the film and allows the formula to slide off easily. Therefore, no rubbing is needed, leaving your natural lashes unharmed.

My review:
Available at Sephora for $24, this amazing mascara has giving Dior Show a run for its money. And that's a lot coming from me. I'm already obsessed with mascara despite the fact that I have naturally long lashes. My roommate came home raving about the mascara and I had to stop everything that I was doing and run in the bathroom and try it out. I was gasping! I've never seen a mascara do what this mascara did.

The mascara coats your lashes and the fibers create a wig like coating. The more you apply the mascara, the more it builds up, and the longer your lashes appear. I was stunned. With simply two coats my lashes were almost touching my eyebrows. Absolutely amazing.

I would absolutely recommend this mascara to all of my couture cuties.

*peace love & couture*

Product Review: Phyto Hair Relaxing Balm

Phytodefrisant Botanical Hair Relaxing Balm

What it is:
A non-chemical straightening treatment.

What it does:
Achieve the perfect blow-out with this award-winning, heat-activated, sleek-making complex. The exclusive plant-based formula, rich in ferula, horseradish, and sage hydrates, softens and protects unruly hair prepping it for a smooth look.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Synthetic Fragrances
- Synthetic Dyes
- Petrochemicals
- Phthalates

What else you need to know:
Straightening effect is cumulative with continued use.

Product description provided by Sephora.com

This was my first time using this product. I received the product in a gift bag at an event that I attended in May. I normally use my Fekkai straightening balm before I blow dry my hair. I forgot I let my roommate use it so picked this product up instead.

My hair has been chemically treated and I have color in my hair. I haven't had a relaxer since September and I don't plan on getting one any time soon, but that's another blog post. My hair is also very thick and naturally wavy as opposed to curly. Since I haven't had a relaxer in a bit the natural wave pattern is starting to take hold again.

I didn't like the way the product felt on my hands as I applied it to my hair. I hate when I put products on my hands and they feel greasy or sticky. I want to constantly wash and dry my hands before I apply product to the next section of my hair. I did apply the product when my hair was lightly towel dried. I then let it air dry for a bit before I hit it with the blow dryer and a round brush.

I absolutely love this product! My hair was super straight and soft and fluffy! I applied just a drop of oil on it after then ran a flat iron through it and was hair flipping all over the place. I will definitely be using this product again and again and again.

One thing that I like is that it doesn't have a fragrance. Your hair will still smell like your shampoo and conditioner of choice after you use it. That is a plus for me because I love the smell of my shampoo.

Since I received the product in a swag bag I was unaware of the price of the product so I looked it up and the price ranges from $12-$32 (depending on the size you purchase). I think the price is reasonable considering I don't wash my hair often and you don't have to use a lot of product at all.

This is the first time I've used a Phyto product but now I'm intrigued to try more products from their line.

Overall: I would suggest that my WOC (women of color) try this product. I honestly don't think the price is THAT bad for what the product is able to do. I love it.

Product Review: Pure Ice Nail Polish

I was in Wal-Mart with my mom looking for something very specific but didn't find it. But hey when you're in Wal-Mart can you actually leave the store without buying something? If you can please let me know how you do it. 

My mom and I ended up in the beauty aisles of course. I wanted some new nail polish colors and she was going to buy them for me. So I didn't want her to have to dig too deep in her wallet because she had just splurged on a wonderful dinner for me and drinks. I saw the Pure ICE colors and a few of the colors I wanted to try. I ended up getting a stark white color (superstar) and a coral color (twinkle). I swatched both of them on my nail and said "you're coming home with me." And they were only $2 a piece. So that excited me. 

Of course I couldn't wait until I got home to give myself a mani and pedi. But it went downhill from there. I used the stark white color. I've seen my hair stylist with stark white nails and I thought it was so cute. I  had been wearing a really dark purple, almost black all week so I thought this would be a nice contrast. 

Dislikes

• Too thick. 
• Don't like the way it comes out the bottle. 
• Really have to use 2 coats. 
• Have to apply it really thick on the first coat so you don't get a streaky or chunky application

Likes 

• Price
• Assortment of colors

I'm not saying that I would never buy them again. But I've learned things that I would do differently for the next application. I guess you get what you pay for. Clearly not like the $7-$10 polishes that I'm used to. 

Product Review: Kiehl's

Ok I'm back. I know its been a while but I had to take a break and get my mind right on a lot of things. But enough about that, lets talk about products!

It's taken me some time to do this review since I was trying out the products for quite some time. I was referred by a coworker a few months ago to try a hand lotion by Kiehl's. I was skeptical at first but after i borrowed some one day I knew I had to have it. So I went to Nordstrom and got my own. Then I made the mistake (or not so much) in telling the girl at the counter that I had never used Kiehl's products before. She immediately got excited and wanted to give me tons of samples. I must say, I love it when employees stand behind the product they sell and can offer opportunities to try new things. Nothing like brand quality and integrity!

The product I originally went there for was the Ultimate Strength Hand Salve. I can't get enough of this product. I'm not too keen on the scent but it goes away pretty quickly. I love how creamy and thick it is. It coats the hands very well without leaving them too greasy. It lasts a long time. Definitely worth the price.

I also got a sample of the Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado. You can use it every day (in the morning and at night). I'm not 100% sure what it's supposed to do, but I tried it anyway. What I can tell you is that its a non migrating product and safe to use around your eye. None of the components of the product will travel and enter your eye. Its cooling and refreshing. You only need a dab and pat it around the orbital bone of your eye. Its a very generous sample and lasted me more than 2 weeks. The full size product is $24.50 and worth it. I've been wearing quite a bit of eye make up lately and constantly washing my eyes and I noticed they had become very tender and a bit red in the corners. This cream alleviated that. Gets a thumbs up and a must buy from me.

My second sample was the Powerful Strength Line Reducing Concentrate. Yes I'm young and I don't really need it, but its not only for reducing lines and wrinkles. This product also improves complexion and over all texture and tone of your skin. I noticed after only a week that my skin felt really smooth and the tone was evening out (my skin tends to be quite blotchy at times). This was another generous sample and lasted about 2 weeks. The full size serum is quite expensive at $55. I wouldn't advise buying it unless you have tried a sample and really feel that you need it.

Product Review: Recent Make Up Haul

I recently bought a few new products and I thought I would write about them since quite a few of my friends are asking me. Majority of the products I purchased from Ulta. I had never been before and now I'm in love with the store. They have everything!

1. Urban Decay Primer Potion: 99% of the youtube tutorials that I watch, the girls prime their lids with it to make their eye make up last all day. So I figured I would try it because I hate when my color fades throughout the day. I tried it and I love it. My shadows adhere that much better to the lid as opposed to just using a cream shadow base or a pigment. I definitely recommend this to anyone who likes to play up their eyes a lot.
2. HIP pigment: I like it but I don't. There is a lot of fall out from the pigment unless you use a mixing medium or a dab of water on the brush. It wasn't extremely expensive and they had vibrant colors. I would say buy it but be careful and don't be heavy handed with it.
3. HIP cream eye liner: I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT! I wanted to try a liquid liner and it didn't work. I don't know if I was doing something wrong or it just takes some getting used to, either way traditional liquid liner wasn't for me. When I saw the HIP cream eye liner I wanted to try it. I did a test swipe on my hand and the color was very true and bold. It had the look of a liquid liner but glides on like a pencil. *warning* Have a steady hand and use lighter strokes until you achieve the look you want. It dries very quickly and does not smudge at all! I tried rubbing my hand and even scrubbed with soap and water and it would not budge. So its good for staying all day, but just know that you will have to use an eye makeup remover in conjunction with a cleanser to get it off.
4. MAC technakohl liner: I tried my stepsisters technakohl liner in graphblack and I loved it. Its another product that is frequently used on the youtube tutorials that I've seen so I thought I would try it. I didn't think it would be that much different than any other liner but it is. It goes on very smooth and has a finer point to it than most of the MAC pencils. The color was very true. Good for smudging and lining the water line with.
5. Lip glosses: I tried HIPs lip gloss in "zealous" and Urban Decays ultraglide gloss in "video" and I loved them both. They are simple natural glosses with a hint of pink or rose to them. The Urban Decay has a slight fragrance/taste to it that I like. They both glide on very well.

If you have any questions about any of the products I reviewed let me know!