Pueen 2013 Stamping Plates Collection

Last month I won a giveaway Cazzy from SpecialGirl Nails was hosting - YAY!.  The prize was a $50 gift certificate from any online store of my liking - I choose Amazon because I was drooling over this plates.
Ordered them from my aunt's Amazon account because they had "prime shipping".  I thought the "prime" thing was just to save on shipping, but apparently it speeds it too.  I ordered on Thursday night and they where delivered on Wednesday next week.

The 2013 Collection includes 25 plates that come in this cute orange storage case.  

Each plate comes with a protective blue film cover.  I prefer plates with a colored protective film; this way people that are new to stamping notice that they need to remove it before using the plates.  When a plate is covered with a clear film, you can barely notice it.

Plates without protective film

 

backing of the plates with Pueen's logo

Clear shot of individual plates

You can see the designs on this plates are very well engraved.

I used this two plates for an AIS Challenge, the theme was to stamp over lilac.

Here are the results of my very first time using the plates.  I didn't even made random test stamps, so this was my absolutely first experience.  The first plate to try was 01.  The first stamps didn't came out so well because I was trying to scrape from different angles & directions until I found the right one.  In my experience, the right angle & direction to scrape can vary from design to design.  The accent nails came out great!

Base is Essie Lilacism, stamped with Color Club Wild at Heart, China Glaze Escaping Reality.

My impressions:

- Love the storage & display case!  If you own a vast collection of plates, another case might not be practical; but I only had the Bundle Monster, Salon Express & some randoms from Born Pretty Store  (which are stored in a ziplock bag - I know, shame!)  If Pueen decided to sell this case separately it would be a hit.  Each plate is stored in a clear nylon sheet, which is super convenient because not only you can have them neatly stored in order, but you can browse the design without having to take them out of lil' pocket.

- It is a little bit difficult to take the plates out of the nylon sheet, they are quite snugged in there.  I'm on the fence with this - it requires a slight pull to get them out, but I would hate them to be loose and falling out of the sheet; which is what happened with my BM plates when I put them on baseball card holders.

-  The borders of the plates are very smooth, so +1 for safety!

- Each plate includes 4 big images and 2 small ones (150 images total).  There are no french tip designs, which I rarely care for.

-  The set includes a great selection of designs including geometrical shapes, flowery and abstract patters, hearts, starts, animal prints, single flowers and even fruits!  The small designs are very cute and nicely compliment the big ones.

- The full nail designs are big enough to cover the width of my hole thumb.  With the Bundle Monster & Salon Express I have to do the trick of squeezing the stamper from the sides to make the design wider; which almost never comes out right.

I have a lot more designs to try, but so far I am loving this collection.  I'm really happy that I got them!

Thanks to Cazzy & Pueen Cosmetics for making me a Happy Stamp-a-holic!

Esika Natural Care Line: Aloe & Mud Hydrating Mask + Cucumber & Ceramides Facial Hydrating Cream

When it comes to my skin, I admit not to be consistent and rarely use every product from the same brand; I tend to mix a lil' bit of everything.
I want to share a combo recently incorporated into my skin care routine, being the mask the most impressive of both products.

Aloe & Mud Hydrating Mask  [1.7 oz]
It claims to immediately hydrate your skin with organic mud & aloe extract.

• Dermatologically Proven
• Hypoallergenic 

Instructions: Apply over clean skin.  With soft massaging motion, distribute an even coat over your hole face.  Let it set for 5 minutes, then rinse with water.  Use between 1 to 2 times weekly.

My Impressions:

• I've seen fast improvement on my skin after the first week of use.  When I'm under stress, my cheeks get very red.  After the mask, the redness have reduced considerably.  I like to use it at night and the morning after the redness is pretty much gone.  

• While the mask is drying, skin feels flexible? Some mask tend to make skin feel stiff; which I hate!

• It only takes 5 minutes, which is convenient because I can apply it and let it set while getting a shower, brushing my teeth, choosing an outfit, etc.

• The package is super convenient! a small squeeze tub that doesn't take much space and eliminates mess.

• Scents wise, it does smell somewhat perfumy? It reminds me of the Irish Spring soap, but way milder.

• It has a tick but manageable consistency.  The tube is small [1.7 oz of product] but a little goes a long way.

Cucumber & Ceramides Facial Hydrating Cream [2.1 oz]
It claims to intensively hydrate the skin with the help of cucumber extract.
Sorry, I don't have pictures of the back label; my camera could not focus on the super small print

• Dermatologically Proven
• Hypoallergenic 

Instructions: Apply during the day and night over clean, dry skin with circular descendent motion until its completely absorbed.

My Impressions:

• It helps soothing the skin, I love the fresh feeling that it leaves and that is not greasy. 

• It doesn't take long for skin to absorb it, so I can apply it right before foundation; doesn't delay my makeup routine.

• The texture is quite lush, it feels creamy & wet at the same time, but like mentioned above, it absorbs quickly.

•  It has a very pleasant mild cucumber scent

Final Thoughts:

• Wish both products came in bigger sizes.
• I haven't notice any interference of the hydrating cream with my makeup [doesn't make my skin shiny during the day, makeup doesn't melt] so I would recommend it for people with oily skin.
• Would be nice if the mask came with an applicator, maybe a brush since you have to spread it all over the face. I use a nail art fan brush and feel like I'm at the Spa ;)
• Even tho I wish for a bigger size, the packaging design is travel & small space friendly.

Disclaimer: Product was purchased by me.  This post express my honest opinion based on my experience with the product.

Esika Extreme Moisturizing Lipstick in Fucsia Cautivante

At fist glance, the color looked intimidating to me even tho I have a secret-soft spot for bold lipstick shades. I'm self-conscious about my big lips and bright colors makes them look bigger.  I don't like the shape of the lipstick because it makes it difficult to apply but the bright berry shade won me over! Nothing that a lip brush couldn't solve

As you can see on the swatches; this shade has a great color payoff without being too loud.  It compliments my skin tone and would look even more beautiful on someone with a darker skin tone.  I love to use it when I'm dressed in all black or barely did any makeup on my eyes because it brightens up the hole look.  You can see its moisturizing properties due to the slight shine finish, but doesn't feel  greasy or slippery. It is soft enough that I could dab a little on my finger and rub it on my lips for a hint of color; like it was a lip stain; but not too soft that it would bleed our or run all over your face.

bloated & after one drink

The stain while its fading out looks beautiful too!

It mix really nice with softer pink shades to tone it down

mixed with Jordanna Matte Lipstick in Pink Flair 

Disclaimer: Product was purchased by me.  This post express my honest opinion based on my experience with the product. 

Review & Swatches: DuWop Crush Heavy Metal Metallic Eyeshadow Trio - Velvet

Months ago, I had the change to try for the first time, DuWop products.  From the 3 I received in a kit, my favorite is this trio named Velvet:

It comes with two beautiful jewel tone eyeshadows (wine & green) and one in a rich golden-y copper

The name of the trio is quite clever, because this eyeshadows are velvety smooth, making blending an ease.  Its pigmentation and lasting power are great.  Except for the golden tone, which is very shimmery; the other two shades can be used for just a wash of color or to build up for a bolder, dramatic look.  The coordination of the colors reminded me of Christmas :D

swatches without primer

Product Provided by Apothica PR for review consideration

Review: Cala Age-Defying Collagen Facial Mask Sheet

Now that I'm 30, my skin is taking quite a beating.  I'm having adult acne breakouts that get worst when I'm close to my period.  Due to this change in my skin behavior; now I'm taking more care of it.

I'll admit it: I can't stick to only one brand when it comes to skin products.  I like to test and create my own combo.

In the search for something to sooth my skin during the summer, got the Cala Age-Defying Collagen Facial Mask Sheet at Walmart ($1.39)

This is my first time using this kind of mask, but so far, I like it.  Its a very easy to use product: just unfold and apply to clean face for about 15-20 minutes.  Don't know if its a standard on this masks, but it was super wet, full of product.  At first it started to drip, but apparently my skin was "thirsty" because it stopped.  Fell asleep with it on, so I used it for about 35 min.  When I took it off it was still wet.  Next morning my skin felt softer than usual and my face less puffy.

Besides its beauty benefits, I like them because they are affordable, easy to use and conveniently packaged.

Think this will make wonders after a day at the beach! :)

Disclaimer: Product was purchased by me.  This post express my honest opinion based on my experience with the product.

Review: Esika Eyes & Lips Makeup Remover Gel

Waterproof makeup remover is great! You can go worry free and feel more confident that our makeup will last until we decide to remove it.  The downfall is that some products are a pain to remove -specially mascara-.  I rarely wear waterproof mascara, my lash line is not full and I don't want to risk loosing any of them.  Matte lipsticks can also be difficult to remove without leaving stains.

One product I can recommend to get the work done is Esika's Eyes & Lips Makeup Remover Gel.  The gel has a very greasy feeling that I didn't like at first.  Guess the greasier the better because it removed the mascara effortlessly.  The mascara came out in small pieces? It didn't smear all around my eyes.

Didn't sting and I could not perceive any particular smell at all.

One thing I hate about lip lines is that no matter the color, it always, always stain my lips.  The stain emphasizes my lips shape so much that they appear to be swollen. The gel helps to remove it all, without rubbing and because is oily, it leaves my lips feeling moisturized. 

Disclaimer: Product was purchased by me.  This post express my honest opinion based on my experience with the product.

Review: L'Bel Bain Collection Verbena: Hydrating Cologne

In March I posted the press release info for the L'Bel Bain Collection Verbena and for the past couple of months I had he opportunity to try the Hydrating Cologne:

I think scent reviews are the hardest for me.  I find so difficult to describe them, but here I go...

This scent reminds me of the smell of grass after the rain (it doesn't smell exactly like it, but reminds me of it).  After daily use I noticed a subtle sweet note, with a fresh & clean feeling; must be the Verbena.  The first time I sprayed it on my wrist it appeared to be oily and I didn't like it but after rubbing my wrist it was rapidly absorbed by my skin.  At first, the scent as a whole was quite strong, but during the day it became very subtle.My mother uses it more than me, it goes nicely with her.  I like scents that maintain strong during the day and this cologne is the opposite on me.  It ends up like being my natural scent, improved.  It does give me the out-of-the shower coolness, and that is something I appreciate a lot! specially during this summer from hell. 

Even when it might not be my every day or night cologne,  I like to spray it on cotton balls and put it on my underwear drawer, it makes it smell so good!  I have lightly sprayed it on my hair after blow-drying it and works as good as dry shampoo :)

** product provided by PR for review

Review: London-Soho-New York Beauty Sponge

One of my classmates asked for advice on wheter or not purchase the Beauty Blender.  I told her my experience with it, I used mine only once, didn't even bother to post a review.  I could not get used to it, I'm a brush person.  But I adviced her to try the affordable version from London-Soho-New York after reading Diane Cristi's review.  She got it and fell in love with it.  While practicing my makeup for the mock-interview for one of our classes I notice my Kirkland flat top brush was getting bald.  Because I could not find a replacement at Costco, settled for a second chance to the blender sponges & I'm so glad I did!

Comparing both sponges after just one try on each, I feel more comfortable using the SOHO one.  At least to me, it seems smaller and the texture is softer.  The price also wins my heart ($7.99 or $5 on sale vs the Beauty Blender) I was able to achieve a smooth finish with great coverage; even beter than the brush. 

I did a test run on half of my face before doing full face makeup.  the official test was last Friday for the Medical Secretary initiation ceremony.  Felt tempted to avoid using loose powder because my skin looked airbrushed, but high temperatures around here are not to trust. If you are looking for a good and affordable alternative to the Beauty Blender, the SOHO Beauty Sponge is a great option.

Review: Suave Keratin Infusion Dry Shampoo

Once again, a product review sponsored by my mom's hair product never ending hoarding! LoL and I'm so happy for her compulsion >:)

This dry Shampoo is part of Suave's new Keratin Infusion line.

I like hair products that are conveniently packaged and easy to use; this dry shampoo is both.  The purpose of it is to refresh you hair appearance and smell between washes.  You only need to spray it lightly on the roots and in case of medium to long hair; freely all around.  

This product also adds volume.  I usually stay away from volumizing product (don't know why, I'm just used to it) and I didn't read the back label before I using it.  Instantly, I noticed more volume and I liked it; specially because my hair is naturally thin and have gotten thinner over time.  I don't limit its use to 2/3 days after the last wash.  After flat ironing my hair, I spray a little of it to add volume but still preserving the sleek look.

What I like about it:

- Absorbs excess oil and leaves hair smooth with a natural looking shine

- Adds volume and movement

- Does not leave white/gray/flaky residue

- For being such a good product, is dirt cheap! only $3.49 at Walgreens

- Because is a drugstore brand, is very accessible

- The smell can be strong while spraying it (reminds me of some 90' perfumes), but it fades fast leaving a soft floral scent

I'm also trying the Shampoo & Conditioner from the same line.  Think I'll post the review in two weeks

Repurchase? Definitely!

 

Review: Arbonne Seasource Detox Spa Renewing Body Gelee

My mom bought this product back in April while she was on vacation.  A month ago, out of curiosity and boredom I decided to give it a try and now I'm afraid to hit bottom on it.

In a nutshell, the Arbonne Seasource Detox Spa Renewing Body Gelée is a moisturizer for your body.  The texture is amazing, is a cross between cream and gel, almost whipped but more soft than a mousse. 

Because there are not enough good things I can say about it, the smell is another plus!  I haven't been able to decide for one note, but it smells like the Bath & Body Works Coconut-Lime Verbena, but with the cooling sensation of mint; still not as sweet as the BBW lotion.

Its cooling sensation is the best thing ever for this summer heat, specially at night.  I use it twice daily, it absorbs quickly and skin feels very soft.

I have gained some weight since I went back to college and that came with white stretch marks on my shoulders :/ Over a month I have notice that the stretch marks became barely visible.  Wish I took pictures of my skin before using it, but I didn't know the product would work for that matter.

Price wise, is on the expensive side ($49) but the amount of product included is generous and you don't need to apply a lot.  If you have the opportunity to splurge on it, I recommend you to try it!

Review: Conair MiniPro Ceramic Clipless Curler

This review is so over-due that I feel shame; almost a year! But better later than never right? :)

I got the Conair MiniPro Ceramic Clipless Curler almost a year ago on clearance at Icing.  I saw it at Walgreens retailing for $19.99 and it comes in different colors.  When I got it, paid $5 and this was the only one left. 

The kit comes with a zebra print pouch to store the curler and a tree-finger heat resistant glove

The picture in the front of the box is self explanatory, but in the back there are tips on how to use it; depending on how much curl definition you want to achieve.  The curler heats almost instantanely and while the glove seemed so weird and useless at first; after a few burns I accepted its utility and learned to work with it.  I would recommend this curler for people with short/medium lenght hair.  People with longer hair might need to go over the same section of hair twice to curl it entirely if you want to achieve a loose wave.  If you want to to do very closed curls it will be fine regarless of your hair lenght.  Also, because of its compact size I think is perfect for travel.

I'm not good doing hair.  When I first got it, failed miserably trying to achieve the curl I wanted.  Decided to give it another try, and got better results.  I noticed that it was easier to curl second+ day hair, the curl was more defined and it hold better.  Really liked the look of big and medium sections curled leaving the ends straight because it gave my hair a fuller appearance.  Tried to take pics of the back but they came very blurry :(

Boo! No Makeup!

Disclaimer: Product was purchased by me.  This post express my honest opinion based on my experience with the product.

Review: L'Bel Couleur Luxe Rouge Irrésistiblé lipstick

L'Bel Couleur Luxe Rouge Irrésistiblé in Vin -a wine-berry shade- is a color rich lipstick that provides both hydration and protection with SPF 17; which is something I don't recall seeing in a lot of lip products except for lip balms. The packaging & the color of the tube are gorgeous!

This shade might look intimidating in the tube, but its formula makes the color looks less vampy, almost sheer, but not quite there yet.  In my experience, most dark lipsticks in a similar shade with gold flecks tend to feel a little gritty (maybe because of their high pigmentation?) but this one feels almost like its melting on my lips. It is a weird sensation, but feels very nice & soothing.  I must admit; I felt a bit disappointed at first when I swatched it on my hand. I expected a super dark color at the first swipe, but I had to do a second one to get what you will see below.  Then I applied it on my lips and not feeling the grittiness I was expecting made sense, it felt very soft and glided smoothly.  One thing tho, I recommend applying it with a brush unless you are a master of precision; its so soft that you can easily slide it outside your lips outline. Also, using a lipliner would be perfect because it will give you a nice and crisp outline.

sorry for my super dry lips!

Here in the swatch you can appreciate how it looks under different light settings, the first one is natural light without flash. I think that someone with a darker skin tone would rock the hell out of this shade!

* product sent by PR for review consideration.

Esika Triple Action Max Facial Cream

Esika Triple Action Max Facial Cream is a multi-use cream: daily cleanser, makeup remover, moisturizer and toner. I rarely use makeup on weekdays, but I always moisturize. Now that I'm in my 30 I've come to regret not making its use part of a religious routine.  Since using this moisturizer I've seen improvement on my skin. This review includes use impressions from mom & I.

8.4 oz, Retails for $14 

The cream is very soft and emollient but yet, not greasy.  Skin absorbs it at average pace and I haven't had any problem with my makeup to crease while using it. If you use a matte foundation but sometimes you want to get the glowy look, this moisturizer will help to achieve that without the need to mix them both or changing your foundation.  My skin is normal, mom's is mixed; so I'm really not sure of it would be suitable for someone with oily skin? 

To me it has a very mild rose scent - but mom didn't detect any fragrance at all. 

When trying to fight wrinkles, dryness and expression lines moisture is an important key.  I like the fact that I can remove my makeup and moisture at the same time with just one product.  My mom have been using it for longer and I've notice a dramatic change, specially around her eyes, where her skin is quite dry and that makes age lines more visible. She thinks that the cream have soften skin on that area and now she uses less concealer. According to the label within its ingredients contains rose petals to help soften skin.  It also contains vitamin E, chamomile & glycerin to refresh skin & hamamelis extract to tone. Think that is great that the product is not labeled as "only for certain age group" so both mom & I could try it and compare impressions (we are 20 years apart in age)  The tub comes completely filled with product and being a multi-use product that really works, you are getting the bang for every buck.

to order: 787-641-3235 or visit www.esika.biz

* Disclaimer: the product was purchased by my mom for personal use and tested by both of us.  I documented our experience with it to write this review.