Archive for the ‘Reviews’ Category

Product: 5 of 5
Packaging: 5 of 5
Quality: 5 of 5
Price: 5 of 5
Overall: 5 of 5
Would I repurchase? I already have, and I’ll continue to unless I ever find something I like more!

::: The Product :::
Maybelline The Falsies was originally released in the UK before it made its appearance in the USA.  I was intrigued by reviews I saw on Makeup Alley, but I never thought much about trying it until I finally saw it in the store.

The Falsies is supposed to give you the look of more lashes by building 8x more volume without clumping.  The spoon brush and flexible wand is supposed to help give 300% more visible lashes.  The Pro-Keratin and Fibre enriched formula is designed to deliver immediate results, distributing volume and visible intensity to your lashes.

The Falsies is available in both washable and waterproof formulas in blackest black, very black, and brownish black.  The tube is very much like that of Colossal, except the tube is purple with teal writing.  Each tube measures about 0.85x 2.75x 5.65 (LxWxH), and holds approximately 0.25 oz. of product.  This mascara is safe for contact lens wearers, and is ophthalmologist tested.

::: Ingredients :::
Aqua/water, paraffin, potassium cetyl phosphate, cera alba/beeswax, cera carnauba/carnauba wax, acacia senegal/acacia senegal gum, glycerin, cetyl alcohol, acrylates copolymer, hydroxyethylcellulose PEG/PPG-17/18 dimethicone, steareth-20, phenoxyethanol, hydrolyzed corn starch, caprylyl glycol, sodium polymethacrylate, sodium dehydroacetate, hydrogenated jojoba oil, hydrogenated palm oil, simethicone, rayon, disodium edta, arginine, serine, glutamic acid, 2-oleamido-1, 3-octadecanediol, silica, panthenol

::: My Experience :::
I had tried Cover Girl Lash Blast, and it wasn’t horrible, but it wasn’t until I repurchased it that I liked it.  Then I tested out my Maybelline Colossal again, and that was all she wrote… Until I found this!

Maybelline The Falsies was originally released in the UK before it made its appearance in the USA.  I was intrigued by reviews I saw on Makeup Alley, but I never thought much about trying it until I finally saw it in the store.  It seems I’ve always had better luck with Maybelline over other brands, so I’m glad this didn’t disappoint me!

Let me say, I never have issues with flaking for the most part.  And I’ve never had raccoon eyes because of a liner or mascara.  Maybe I’m in the minority of women because of that, but it just rarely ever happens to me.  And I never really have issues with my mascara running all over my face if I cry either… So, that being said, let’s move on!

This is a very wet mascara, so for the first week or so of using it, I have to take off any excess mascara before applying it.  I normally curl my lashes first, and then use the inside of the “spoon” to apply it.  To get even more of my lashes to come out and play, I go back over my lashes with the side of the brush, or the “back” of the brush.  Practice makes perfect with this mascara, but if you’re good at tricky wands (i.e. Givenchy Phenomen’Eyes and L’Oreal Telescopic Explosion), then you’ll be okay.

I end up with natural looking long lashes, so the false lashes effect isn’t insanely dramatic on me.  While I do have naturally long, curly lashes, they are sparse and stubborn.  Growing down, in, out and every which way but the right is normal for them.  I don’t have clumping issues, and it’s not insanely hard to get off at night.  I generally just use my face wash without any makeup remover, and it’s all gone!

::: Overall :::
If you have the time and patience to learn this mascara, then don’t hesitate!  I’ve never been one for layering lengthening and volumizing mascara, and I get both with this one.  I have naturally sparse lashes that look long and lush!  I’ll most definitely keep purchasing this, and I’ve already gotten one friend to convert to it from her CG Lash Blast!  (If you prefer drier mascaras, then try the new Lancôme mascara… I can’t remember the name of it, but Julia Roberts advertises it… The Lancôme MA told me it’s just like Maybelline The Falsies!)

Disclosure: This product was purchased by me from a local store. For more information, please view my Disclosure Policy.

Products: 4 of 5
Packaging: 5 of 5
Quality: 4 of 5
Price: 5 of 5
Overall: 5 of 5
Would I repurchase? I’m in debate on the foundation only because it doesn’t seem to jive well with my combo skin, but with a primer, it’s golden… Yeah, I’d buy them both again.

::: The Products :::
Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation SPF 15 is a water-based, extremely lightweight foundation which is considered ideal for all skin types, and is available in 20 colors.  Skin Foundation, as per the Bobbi Brown website, is “A truly modern foundation that offers invisible, weightless coverage that looks like skin, not makeup.  This long-wearing formula evens tone, minimizes the appearance of pores, conceals imperfections, and offers broad spectrum UV protection.  Its hydrating technology leaves skin feeling cushioned, comfortable, and clean.”  Each bottle holds approximately 1 fluid ounce and retails $45.

According to the Bobbi Brown website, Sheer Finish Pressed Powder is “Bobbi’s long-lasting, super-sheer powder sets and perfects color to create a smooth, flawless finish. This sheer powder is 100% oil-free and oil-absorbing, with Vitamin E for the most comfortable wear.”  The 0.38 ounce powder is available in 7 colors, and each compact comes with a powder puff and retails $32.

::: The Ingredients :::
Skin Foundation SPF 15 – (Active ingredients: Octinoxate 7.50% and Titanium Dioxide 1.00%) Water, Methyl Trimethicone, Neopentyl Glycol Diethylhexanoate, Isononyl Isononanoate, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl dimethicone, HDI/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer, Talc, Boron Nitride, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Stearic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Dimethicone, Lecithin, Aluminum Dimyristate, Tocopherol, Myristic Acid, Silica, Magnesim Ascorbyl Phosphate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Citrate, Sorbic Acid, Chlorphenesin, Phenoxyethanol. May contain: Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499).

Sheer Finish Pressed Powder – Talc, Polymethyl Methacrylate, Silica, Dimethicone, Pentaerythrityl Tetraisosterarate, Cetearyl Octanoate, Zinc Sterarate, Zea Mays (Corn) Starch, Zeolite, Tocopheryl Acetate, PEI-10, Sorbic Acid, Tetrasodium Edta, Methylparaben, BHT, Propylparaben, Butylparaben
(May Contain) Mica, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499), Red 30 (CI 73360), Yellow 6 Lake (CI 15985), Carmine (CI 75470), Yellow 5 Lake (CI 19140)

::: My Experience :::
I heard of Bobbi Brown LONG ago… She was actually one of the first makeup artists I’ve ever heard of.  However, I just never gave a lot of thought to her products.  I’m not too sure why, but I didn’t.  Over the last few years I’ve begun using her Shimmer Bricks and limited edition palettes.  I knew her foundations were yellow-based, which is good for me since I have yellow undertones.

For some reason I decided I wanted to switch from mineral makeup to liquid foundation.  I can’t be too sure why this is, but something has me thinking my drier winter skin might’ve prompted it (even though summer is around the corner now).  I definitely wanted a natural look, and stopped by the Bobbi Brown counter while on a trip to the mall.  The SA was very nice, and was more than willing to let me walk away without making a single purchase instead of walking away with something I wouldn’t be happy with.  (Although this might have something to do with her not wanting to have a return on her sales, that’s fine by me too!)  The SA was able to show me I didn’t need concealer, and I actually haven’t used it since… And I’ve always sworn I needed it for my severely dark circles!

ANYWHO!  I knew with my combo skin, which leans oily lately, that I didn’t need a tinted moisturizer.  Skin Foundation seems to be a good alternative, and since it’s oil-free, I decided to try it while I waited for the new foundation to be released almost two months later.  I’ve been using Bobbi Brown for almost two full months now, and I like it quite a bit.  I don’t need a lot at all, and it gives me a nice natural finish with barely there coverage.

To complete my look I use the Bobbi Brown Sheer Finish Pressed Powder.  The color doesn’t change my foundation at all, which I should mention doesn’t oxidize and change color either.  I can reapply the powder throughout the day and never look cakey or overly matte either.  I’ve debated on getting the loose powder to use at home and taking the pressed for my purse, but I figure I don’t need two powders for one face, right?  Oh, and I should mention, my color match was dead-on in both products without any worries about lines of demarcation either.  I’m a perfect Warm Natural who hasn’t had a single breakout from either product!  Yay!

::: Overall :::
I would definitely buy these products again… Especially the powder.  I’m a huge fan of Bobbi Brown’s, and I think she knows how to help a woman stay true to her own natural looks.  It seems Bobbi’s philosophy is to be happy and beautiful with what you have… Not mask yourself up and be someone you’re not.  All of her products have been good to me, and I will be a repeat customer.

Disclosure: These products were purchased by me from Bobbi Brown. For more information, please view my Disclosure Policy.

Photos from Bobbi Brown Cosmetics.

Products: 4 of 5
Packaging: 5 of 5
Quality: 4 of 5
Price: 5 of 5
Overall: 5 of 5
Would I repurchase? Yep! I sure would purchase more products from e.l.f! They’ve improved a lot over the years, and their quality is almost as good, if not as good/better, than a lot of higher end products available.

::: The Products :::
Eyes Lips Face is more commonly known as e.l.f (ELF), and makes cosmetics and accessories ranging from $1 to $15. Most of their products are relatively cheap, and most work very well. You can purchase anything from lip gloss to makeup brushes to customizable compacts.

::: The Ingredients :::
Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder – Talc, Mica, Magnesium Stearate, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Paraffinium Liquidum (Mineral Oil), Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Iron Oxides (CI 77491 CI 77492 CI 77499), Titanium Dioxide (CI 77981), Red No.40 Lake (CI 16035), Ultramarine Blue (CI 77007)

Mineral Infused Mascara – Stearic Acid, Cetyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate SE, PVP, Triethanolamine, Triacontanyl PVP, Hydroxyethyl Cellulose, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate

Minerals Lip Gloss – Mineral Oil, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Mica Silica, Capryly Glycol, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A), Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides (CI77491, CI77492, CI77499), Manganese Violet (CI77742), Mica (CI77019), Red No.7 Lake (CI15850), Red No.27 Lake (CI45410), Red No.6 Lake (CI15850), Blue No.1 Lake (CI42090), Yellow No.5 Lake (CI19140), Yellow No.6 Lake (CI15985).

::: My Experience :::
I had used e.l.f. products a few years ago, but had only tried their foundation and pressed powder. Unfortunately, at the time I didn’t have a proper color match, and haven’t looked back since. My oldest daughter just turned twelve, and she’s begun to show an interest in cosmetics. For some reason it still seems almost overpriced to purchase Cover Girl or Maybelline for her, so I was more than happy to realize e.l.f. had products which are even better alternatives, as well as cheaper.

I was able to test drive the Mineral Infused Mascara, which is a rather nice product. It’s a wet mascara, so I did have to take the excess off with a paper towel, but it applied very well afterwards. The brush is a plastic one with the little bristles like most mascaras with a plastic head/teeth. I can’t say if it did much for volumizing or lengthening, but it definitely separated my lashes. The black wasn’t an intense one either, and my lashes still felt soft and pliable. Definitely something I would prefer my daughter using over a mascara that will almost harden on her lashes and cause some breakage and loss.

For just a nice pop of color, without a lot of shimmer, the blush from the Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder duo is nice. The color has been compared to NARS Orgasm and Milani Luminous, but I find it way less shimmery than either. Possibly with less pigmentation as well, but I prefer it to the more. Actually, the duo is considered a dupe to NARS Laguna/Orgasm duo, which I did at one time own and promptly gave back up. The bronzer and I didn’t mesh well with this palette though. I’m not sure what it was though… It’s a nice subtle bronzer, so no worries about looking like an Oompa Loompa!

The Minerals Lip Gloss is a nice, sheer lip gloss that seems to moisturize while giving your lips a pop of color. I used this in Au Naturale and it reminds me a bit of Stila Kitten/NARS Orgasm lip glosses. Not quite as “dark,” but just as gorgeous and much cheaper. My lips are highly pigmented, so I’m sure this would look even prettier on someone without as much pigmentation as I have. It lasted quite a while, and never felt sticky. My lips didn’t dry up from it either, which is always a plus in colder weather!

::: Overall :::
I would definitely buy these products, and others from e.l.f. They produce quality products for a very inexpensive price, and they products are easier to obtain now than previously. There is a goods variety of colors for both teenagers and adults alike, as well as they now offer mineral products. If nothing else, a customer can purchase numerous items to see what may or may not work best for them, and not spend a small fortune as with some other companies.

Disclosure: These products were sent to me for review from e.l.f. (eyes lips face). For more information, please view my Disclosure Policy.

Photos from e.l.f. website

Product: 5 of 5
Packaging: 5 of 5
Quality: 5 of 5
Price: 5 of 5
Overall: 5 of 5
Would I repurchase? Yep! I sure would purchase these! The only thing that would make them better was if they were pressed mineral eyeshadows!

::: The Product :::
Overall Beauty Minerals is a line of mineral eyeshadows available for $7.99 from Overall Beauty. Each shadow comes in a sealed 5g sifter jar, and the sifter itself is sealed closed, so there are no worries about any leakage before the shadows arrive to you. The front of each jar has a picture of minerals, along with the color name, and the ingredients are listed on the back of each jar, as well as on the website.

::: The Ingredients :::
Mica, Iron Oxide, Zinc Oxide USP, Titanium Dioxide
May also contain: Ultramarine Blue, Kaolin Clay. (Overall Beauty does not use talc or bismuth oxychloride in their makeup.)

::: My Experience :::
I received OB Mineral Eyeshadows in Night Wisp, Honeydew, Pale Pink, Buttercup, Ivory Lace, Lavender and China Doll. Are are very light colors, mostly for highlighting.  Descriptions are as follows:

• Buttercup – Light golden wheat
• Pale Pink – Pale pink with a hint of mauve
• Honeydew – Vanilla-ish with a green duochrome tint
• Ivory Lace – Shimmery ivory
• Night Wisp – Light peach with bluish-purple duochrome
• Lavender – Shimmery paled lavender
• China Doll – Soft whispery pink

When used with a primer, all of the eyeshadows are darker and have a richer color. The key is to pat the eyeshadow on, not swipe it on using a windshield wiper motion. Out of the colors I received, I definitely LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Night Wisp! My favorite pigment from MAC is Pink Opal, but Night Wisp is like Pink Opal only better. I can’t even describe how it’s better, it just is!   After Night Wisp my favorites are Lavender and China Doll.  China Doll reminds me of a shimmery mineralized version of Stila Bouquet, which is my daily eyeshadow.

Granted I’m naturally tan, so these should probably all be highlighters for me.  However, they give just the right amount of shimmer without being overly shimmery.  There is nothing frosty about the colors either.  All of the mineral eyeshadows applied like butter, and I didn’t have any issues with creasing and/or fading throughout the day.  Again, since I’m so dark everything isn’t going to show on me as well as others.  However, here are pics of Night Wisp and Lavender (sorry they’re not so great!):

::: Overall :::
I would definitely buy these, especially Night Wisp!  The only thing that would make them any better is if they were pressed eyeshadows since I find them easier to use.  I don’t have to worry about tapping them out of sifters (or spilling them everywhere if I take the sifters out!).  For only about $8 per shadow, and knowing it’ll last forever, it’s seriously almost insane to not purchase a few! Who doesn’t love a good deal?!

Disclosure: These products were sent to me for review from Overall Beauty. For more information, please view my Disclosure Policy.

Product: 4 of 5
Packaging: 3 of 5
Quality: 5 of 5
Price: 5 of 5
Overall: 4 of 5
Would I repurchase? Yes, yes and yes! I only wish it came in a tube form though…

::: The Product :::
Korres Lip Butters are lip balms which give the lips a hint of color, but can also be applied to the apples of cheeks for a pop of color. The Lip Butters are available in seven flavors/scents: Guava (clear), Quince (sheer rose), Jasmine (sheer neutral pink), Mango (sheer peach), Plum (sheer lavender berry), Pomegranate (sheer coral), and Wild Rose (sheer deep red).

All Korres Lip Butters are made without parabens, sulfates, GMO and petro-chemicals. Guava, Wild Rose, Pomegranate and Quince are free of synthetic fragrances, and Wild Rose, Pomegrante and Quince are also free of synthetic dyes. All of the Lip Butters are made with Shea Butter to hydrate and soften lips, as well as Rice Bran to seal in the treatment benefits of hydration and comfort.

Korres Lip Butters contain approximately 0.21 oz/6g in a white pot with different color lids depending on what scent/flavor you chose. Korres Lip Butters are available at Sephora brick & mortar stores, as well as online for $10. They may also be purchased from drugstore.com for $10. Funny enough, they’re available directly from Korres for only $9 *shrugs*

::: The Ingredients (All Shades) :::
Polybutene, Trimethylolpropane Triisostearate, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Hydroxystearic Acid, Polyethylene, Stearalkonium Hectorite, Propylene Carbonate, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Sucrose Tetrastearate Triacetate, Aroma, Tocopherol, Prunus Domestica Extract, Dicalcium Phosphate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Wax (Oryza Sativa Cera), Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Extract, CI 15850 (Red 7 Lake), CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), CI 77491 (Iron Oxides), CI 42090 (Blue 1 Lake)

::: My Experience :::
I kept hearing about Korres Lip Butters from the girls on Makeup Alley, as well as TiffanyD mentioned it in a few of her YouTube videos. Instead of getting one or two with my Sephora Gift Card, I decided to wait it out. I mean, I was in love with my Cococare Cocoa Butter Lip Balm!

Back in November I had a crappy experience at my local Sephora, so I wrote to the company about my experience. The district manager was kind enough to write me offering a free gift (which I never received, but that’s not a biggie) and a complimentary consultation. I’m not sure if the consultations are generally “complimentary” or not, but I figured I’d give it a go. Since this was right before the holidays, I decided to wait until after Christmas since I knew I had to go in for my birthday gift anyway… Which they were out of, so I’ll have to call the store back on this one. Anywho! The manager offered for me to come in this past weekend since a lady with Korres was in doing the consultations.

Sahra with Korres was wonderful! I didn’t need much help as far as cosmetics since I already know quite a bit and am happy with what I currently use. She did help me with her own hints on doing the cat eye/winged liner, which I still need to try out. I decided I’d finally try the highly praised Lip Butter, and was HOOKED instantly! I ended up purchasing one in Jasmine because the smell is just divine! The only one I didn’t care for smell wise was Guava… I’m not sure how to describe the smell, but it wasn’t pleasant to me. I think I’d have to get Pomegranate or Plum next… Maybe Quince…

My lips are insanely soft from using the Korres Lip Butter! I apply it at night before bed, and still wake up with soft lips! I keep it in the bathroom, so I apply it whenever I go in there as well. Since Jasmine isn’t a very dark balm, and I do have pretty pigmented lips, I don’t get much color from my Lip Butter, but that’s just fine. Also, I generally prefer a tubed lip balm (even if it’s a squeeze tube), so that’s my only real “issue” with this product. However, I will most definitely be buying more of these. I’m thinking relatively soon too so I have one for my desk at work!

::: Overall :::
I will most definitely be purchasing this product again! Korres Lip Butters are just as wonderful as everyone said they were! I’m glad I finally caved and purchased one, and I look forward to owning many more! If you have a change to grab one, do it! Smell them all first if you want too… Make sure you’re putting something on that you’ll love to smell as much as wear!

Disclosure: This product was purchased by me at my local Sephora. For more information, please view my Disclosure Policy.

Product: 4 of 5
Packaging: 5 of 5
Quality: 4 of 5
Price: 4 of 5
Overall: 4 of 5
Would I repurchase? Considering this has been discontinued, I’ll just have to suck it up and find something else. I have purchased two back-ups for when I’m done with the tube I’m on, but then I don’t know what I’ll do!

::: The Product :::
As it’s no longer available in the USA, I had to borrow some information from the UK Maybelline site, as well as other sites. Maybelline Sky High Curves is supposed to be an “extreme length and curl mascara” that lengthens up to 30% while setting lashes to a 30-degree curve. Its formula contains flexible polymers that stretch and mold to the lashes all the while lifting and curling lashes with its “lift ‘n’ length brush.” Sky High Curves was ophthalmologically tested, therefore it was suitable for contact lens wearers.

Sky High Curves was available in Very Black, Soft Black and Brownish Black. It came in a navy blue tube with silver writing with the product name on the front of the tube. There was also a waterproof formula, which was available in a light blue mascara tube with writing in navy blue. Each tube contains 0.16 fl. oz (4.7 ml) of product.

::: The Ingredients :::
Water, rice bran wax, carnauba wax, hydrogenated steryl olive esters, stearic acid, candelilla wax, triethanolamine, palmitic acid, acacia senegal, panthenol, methylparaben, hydroxyethylcellulose, dimethicone copolyol, propylparaben, polyvinyl alcohol, simethicone, PPG-17/492. May Contain: Carmine/CI 75470, chromium hydroxide green/CI 77289, chromium oxide greens/CI 77288, ultramarines/CI 77007, mica, titanium dioxide/CI 77891, ferric ferrocyanide/CI 77510

::: My Experience :::
I know I constantly review mascaras, and the only one to date that I’ve seemingly hated was L’Oreal Double-Extend Beauty Tubes. I just don’t seem to have a lot of issues that others have with mascara by way of smudging, raccoon eyes, flaking, etc. I don’t know why that is, but I don’t.

I was browsing the cosmetics aisle at Ocean State Job Lot, and saw Maybelline Sky High Curves. I had heard good things about it in the past, but never bothered trying it out. I decided I would give it a go since it was only $2.99 per tube. I mean, I’m sure it retailed about $7, so at least I wasn’t wasting a lot of money if I didn’t like it, right? My only issue was they only had it in Brownish Black, and I always buy the darkest black available.

It seems that my lashes are tricky. I know that seems silly to say, but it’s true. They don’t even grow “right” in the sense that they grow in pointing straight out, straight up, curling in towards the eye, etc. Not to mention, eyelash primers seem to weigh them down more times than not. So, I’ve resorted to just using my trusty Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler and whatever mascara I’m using at the time.

That being said, Maybelline Sky High Curves is good to me. Even though it’s Brownish Black, it still gives my lashes some color. My lashes definitely seem to curl up more so than with other mascaras, but I’m not sure if it really lengthens my lashes any… I think the lengthening aspect comes from the fact that my lashes are staying curled up giving the illusion of longer lashes. Though this isn’t a separating mascara, it does a good job of fanning my lashes out so they’re not spidery or anything. I don’t have issues with the mascara clumping or globbing up on me either.

I haven’t tried removing Sky High Curves with an eye makeup remover since I no longer use them, but it seems to come off just fine with Philosophy Purity Made Simple. My guess then is that if Purity gets it off easily, then any eye makeup remover should be able to simply remove it as well!

::: Overall :::
I keep saying “I’ll definitely buy this again,” but I think this is the only mascara I have repurchased and continuously used. I even tried my Maybelline Lash Discovery again and didn’t like it as much as I thought I did… Same goes for M.A.C. Dazzle Lash LOL! I’m thinking I’ll have to figure out how to stock up on this without worrying about rancid mascara.

 

 

Product: 4 of 5
Packaging: 5 of 5
Quality: 4 of 5
Price: 2 of 5
Overall: 4 of 5
Would I repurchase? I most definitely will!  And I’ll be a very upset woman should Maybelline discontinue this mascara!

::: The Product :::
Maybelline Lash Stiletto isn’t even due out until January 2009, but you can already find it in your local Wal-Mart.  Lash Stiletto comes in a sleek black squared tube with a shiny red stripe at the very bottom.  The tube does very much so resembles a stiletto heel (wider at the top, tapering down to a thinner bottom).  The product and company name are on all four-sides of the tube in silver lettering.  Each Lash Stiletto tube measures approximately 5″ long, and contains .22 FL OZ/6.5 ml of product.  The brush even has the same tapering effect as the tube, and is slightly longer than most mascara wands.  Oh, and the bristles aren’t plastic.

Lash Stiletto is a lengthening mascara complete with Pro-Vitamin B5, which I assume leads to its ability to strengthen and condition your lashes.  This lovely jewel of a mascara is supposed to give you “seductive length,” as well as “shiny patent leather finish.”  Lash Stiletto will be available in three colors: Very Black, Soft Black and Brownish Black.  I was able to get mine for $6.98, but it looks like it will retail for about $8.95 (as per WWD).

To apply Maybelline Lash Stiletto, the following is recommended:

• Sweep Grip & Extend brush upwards from root to tip to grasp each lash and coat from every angle to achieve extreme length & shine.  Continue building lashes until you reach your desired look.  Do not let dry between coats.  Repeat for lower lash line. 
• For a truly dramatic, wide-eyed look, curl your lashes before applying mascara.  
• Removes easily with soap and water or eye makeup remover.  
• Ophthalmologist tested & contact lens safe.

::: The Ingredients :::
To Be Updated!

::: My Experience :::
I have admitted to being a mascara whore, so it’s no wonder I caved and purchased this!  I initially saw Maybelline Lash Stiletto in Wal-Mart, and I was intruiged.  However, I was resistant at first as I didn’t really need yet ANOTHER mascara.  Suffice it to say, I couldn’t help but take a sneak peak on Makeup Alley for reviews.  9 reviewers gave it a 100% rating.  I was beginning to crack!

My partner in crime ended up purchasing it, but still hadn’t tried it.  I couldn’t resist it any longer, and ran out to buy it this past Thursday.  I got home, took of the dreaded L’Oreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes, and applied Lash Stiletto.  OMG!  YAY!  I saw length on my lashes!  WAY more length than I’ve gotten with a lot of other mascaras.  Mind you, this was without even using primer!

The next morning I didn’t hesitate to reach for Lash Stiletto instead of one of my many other mascaras.  I did use primer and curled my lashes first.  Slightly more length than the trial run offered!  Now, I do think my Shiseido The Makeup Mascara Base gives the mascara a tad more volume.  In which case, my friend egged me right into getting Lancome Cils Booster XL (thank you eBay)!  She said it offers more length than volume, so I can’t even wait to see how long and luscious my lashes will look if that’s true!

Oh, and removing it was a breeze!  It didn’t take any real effort to get the mascara off.  No, it’s not waterproof.  I don’t particularly care for waterproof mascaras anyway, and I never have the dreaded raccoon eyes or anything either.  Maybelline Lash Stiletto offered wonderful length without any smudging or flaking!

::: Overall :::
If you’re looking for nice length, then I do recommend Maybelline Lash Stiletto.  It’s definitely a new fave mascara for me, and will be in heavy rotation!  I’m tempted to go toss almost all of my other mascaras out!  Your lashes are left nice and soft, without being icky and brittle.  Oh, and something I should’ve mentioned previously – I only use one coat of mascara, no matter what brand/formula I use.  So, maybe two coats would give me even better length?  Anywho!  I don’t think you’ll be disappointed

 

Product: 2 of 5
Packaging: 4 of 5
Quality: 4 of 5
Price: 2 of 5
Overall: 3 of 5
Would I repurchase? Eh, maybe… I mean, this can be quite costly.  If I’m going to spend almost $11 on mascara, I want to know it does what it says!

::: The Product :::
L’Oreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes comes in a double-sided package.  The Nourishing Basecoat side is white, and the center and Ultra Lengthening Topcoat are red.  The mascara package has the brand name, color and company information in silver lettering across the center of the packaging.  Each mascara tube contains 0.17 FL OZ/5.2 ml of the basecoat, and 0.16 FL OZ/5.0 ml of the topcoat, and measures approximately 5.5” in length.  L’Oreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes is available in two colors: Blackest Black and Black.

According to L’Oreal, Double Extend Beauty Tubes are: “revolutionary lash extension effect mascara that provides up to 80% longer-looking, nourished lashes.”  (The fact that Blinc Kiss Me has long been out must’ve been lost by L’Oreal!)  Benefits of the tubes include: longwearing hold, smudge proof, flake proof, clump-free length, Ophthalmologist and allergy tested, suitable on sensitive eyes & for contact lens wearers.

The following instructions are suggested for using L’Oreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes:
Step 1: Nourishing Base Coat:
The rich base coat infused with Ceramide R and D-Panthenol protects, nourishes and strengthens the lashes creating the perfect base for tube application.

Step 2: Ultra Lengthening Tube Top Coat:
As the mascara sets, it envelopes your lashes in small tubes that act like lash-lengthening extensions: lashes look up to 80% longer!

The tubes have impeccable hold and wear, so they will not smudge, smear, run, or flake.

Step 3: Easy, Smudge-Free Removal:
The mascara tubes remove easily with plenty of warm water, without the need for makeup remover.

When washing your face, simply smooth the tubes away from your lashes with your fingertips, or hold a cotton pad soaked in warm water on the lashes for 30 seconds.

With plenty of warm water, tubes will remove gently without any smudges or smears.

::: The Ingredients :::
Water – Aqua , Paraffin , Potassium Cetyl Phosphate , Acrylates Copolymer , Beeswax – Cera Alba , Carnauba Wax – Cera Carnauba , Steareth-2 , Cetyl Alcohol , Phenoxyethanol , Hydroxyethylcellulose , Acacia Senegal Gum – Acacia Senegal , Rayon , Panthenol , Ethylenediamine/Stearyldimer Dilinoleate Copolymer , Methylparaben , Sodium Dehydroacetate , Hydrogenated Jojoba Oil , Hydrogenated Palm Oil , 2-Oleamido-1,3-Octadecanediol , Disodium EDTA , Ethylparaben , Simethicone , Rosa Canina Fruit Oil , Isopropylparaben , Isobutylparaben , Butylparaben , Titanium – CI 77891 – May Contain , Water – Aqua , Styrene/Acrylates/Ammonium Methacrylate Copolymer , Butylene Glycol , Alcohol Denat. , Sodium Laureth-12 Sulfate , Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Copolyme , Isohexadecane , Phenoxyethanol , Rayon , Polysorbate 80 , Methylparaben , Imidazolidinyl Urea , Sodium Dehydroacetate , Disodium EDTA , Silica , Ethylparaben , Isopropylparaben , Isobutylparaben , Butylparaben , Iron Oxides – CI 77499 – CI 77491 – CI 77492 – May Contain , Ultramarines – CI 77007 – May Contain , Mica – May Contain , Carmine – CI 75470 – May Contain , Chromium Oxide Greens – CI 77288 – May Contain , Chromium Hydroxide Green – CI 77289 – May Contain , Titanium Dioxide – CI 77891 – May Contain , Ferric Ferrocyanide – CI 77510 – May Contain

::: My Experience :::
I heard about this mascara a few months ago when it was released in Europe, but hadn’t hit America yet.  One girl on a forum said it was the best mascara ever, and even had before and after pictures of her with the mascara on.  I was seemingly sold, but wanted to see more reviews on it.  Eventually L’Oreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes were available in the USA, and a few other people said they loved it too.  I got my aunt to buy it while she was here over Thanksgiving, and neither of us seemed too impressed. 

Suffice it to say, my “partner in crime” bought it and loved it!  Now, my lovely friend is very particular about her mascara, and is always looking for something that’ll give her good length.  So, if she raved about this, I figured it would be worth getting.  I finally caved and purchased it at CVS for $10.99 (about $2 more than I would’ve paid in Wal-Mart).  

Once I was home and had the chance, I tested out the mascara.  I applied the mascara as directed on one eye, and used my Shiseido The Makeup Mascara Base on the other eye with the mascara (instead of using the accompanying basecoat).  I didn’t see much difference at all honestly.  I can say, the side with Shiseido Mascara Base took a lot more effort to get the mascara off.  

Well, I decided I would try out the mascara again to give it an honest shot.  My friend said to use the primer it came with, so I did.  Again – Nothing spectacular.  I received the same results M.A.C. Plushlash gives me, minus any real volume.  It didn’t clump when applied, nor did it flake or smudge throughout the day, so I can say that’s a claim L’Oreal made on this product that’s true.  

I honestly don’t think this will be in heavy rotation with my other mascaras.  I’m seriously tempted to just toss it out.  Too bad it’s not sanitary to swap out used mascaras, or else this bad boy would be up for grabs on a new home! 

::: Overall :::
I think L’Oreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes is a hit-or-miss mascara.  It seems a lot of girls love it, and some of us hate it.  As for me, it did nothing.  I didn’t see any dramatic change in my eyelash length – definitely NOT the 80% L’Oreal claims the mascara will give me.  If you’re willing to spend $9 – $11 on this as opposed to Blinc Kiss Me Mascara for $25, then go for it.  But if you don’t get the results you hoped for, you can at least remember I did warn you!

I’m even gonna be nice and do a “two-for” on reviews this evening… How sweet am I?  Again, yet another Epinions review I’ve done

Product: 1 of 5
Packaging: 4 of 5
Quality: 1 of 5
Price: 3 of 5
Overall: 1 of 5
Would I repurchase? No, no and NO!  This is the worst product I’ve ever tried regarding hair removal!

I honestly just find this to be another gimmick to get women in search of stubble-free legs without worries of constant shaving.  But I could be the minority on this one since it seems it truly does work for some… Just not me!

::: The Product :::
Veet Rasera Bladeless Kits come in four scents: Aloe Vera, Floral Sensation, Fresh Sensation, and Dewberry. Each kit contains a bladeless razor with an aloe strip, and a 5.1 fl. oz. can of hair removal gel-cream. The product totes the claim of “soft, smooth skin that lasts up to twice as long as a razor – without cuts, dryness or stubble.” Veet Rasera is dermatologist tested, and contains no CFCs.

To use Veet Rasera, you’re supposed to spread the Gel Cream to fully cover hair. Wash your hands immediately after application. Leave the Gel Cream on the skin for 3 minutes, timed carefully. Then use the Rasera Bladeless Tool to test a small area. If hair comes away easily, remove the rest of the Gel Cream with the Rasera Bladeless Tool. Total hair removal time depends on hair thickness. If needed, leave the gel cream on for a bit longer WITHOUT EXCEEDING 6 MINUTES in total. Rinse your skin thoroughly with water after use. After use, rinse the nozzle and Rasera Bladeless Tool thoroughly with water.

Some of the precautions include:

1. Always wait 72 hours between product applications.
2. DO NOT sunbathe or swim for 24 hours after use. avoid contact with jewelry. For external use only.
3. Prolonged or frequently repeated skin contact may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Before each use, patch test a small area you wish to treat and wait 24 hours before using product to ensure you have no adverse skin reaction.
4. Contains thioglycolate.
5. DO NOT use on irritated, sunburned, inflamed or broken skin, or on skin which has suffered an adverse reaction to hair removal lotions in the past.
6. DO NOT use on face or ears, on moles, breast nipples, perianal or genital areas. If discomfort or irritation occurs during use, remove the product immediately and rinse area with cold water. If irritation persists, consult a physician or call a Poison Control Center.

::: The Ingredients :::
Water (Agua), Urea, Potassium Thioglycolate, Nitrogen, Calcium Hydroxide, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ceteareth-20, PPG-15 Stearyl Ether, Perfume (Fragrance), Potassium Hydroxide, Magnesium Trisilicate, Titanium Dioxide, Propylene Glycol, Lithium Magnesium Sodium Silicate, Sodium Gluconate, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Acrylates Copolymer, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Extract, Hydrated Silica, BHT

::: My Experience :::
I hate body hair, I really do! Therefore, I prefer to keep my legs and underarm area as smooth as a baby’s bottom if I can help it. Even if that means shaving daily. I don’t bother with waxing as I’m allergic to most waxes, and the thought of epilating it just downright scary!

That being said, my legs were actually getting irritated from shaving daily. Sadly, if I don’t shave daily, I get a case of razor burn when I do finally shave again. Since summer was coming, and I knew skirts and shorts would be imminent, I figured I would look into hair removal creams. I asked a few people, and they said Veet Rasera had worked for them, even though they had really coarse, stubborn hair. I figured I’d give it a go, and was fortunate enough to have my husband pick some up for me.

I immediate tried it before I got in the shower. I followed the directions to the T, and tested a small spot on my calf at the initial “end” time. Nothing happened, so I left it on up to the maximum amount of minutes. About halfway through the nice fresh scent turned into the smell of bleach, which is not pleasing at all! Once my time was up, I started to “shave” my legs using the bladeless razor. Needless to say, not a SINGLE HAIR was removed. I’m dead serious… NOTHING happened. Then, when I went to wash off the remaining gel-cream, my legs had a weird film to them, which I can only assume was the moisturizing aspect? Oh yeah, and the horrible smell lingered even after my shower, and using a scented body butter! Regardless, the whole experience was just a waste of my time and money!

::: Overall :::
I most definitely wouldn’t tell anyone to waste their money on this! I don’t think this would honestly work for anyone who doesn’t have extremely soft, fine hairs. I’d rather shave daily.