Sunday, 16 March 2014

Shany Cosmetics Mineral Eyeshadow Set


Which makeup artist doesn't love eyeshadows.  I personally don't think it is possible to have "enough" colors to chose from.  From pigments, to glitters, to baked and more, there are just so many options to choose from.  If you want to know more about some great, affordable, and pigmented colors, keep reading to see my thoughts on the Shany Cosmetics Mineral Eyeshadow Set.

Description

Visit: http://www.shanycosmetics.com/mineral-sparkle-eyeshadow-stack for full description.

Packaging
These eyeshadows came shipped to me in a large black and white Shany Cosmetics box.  The shadows themselves came nicely packaged in a smaller, cardboard box.  Inside, each shadow was separated into sections by a divider.  These loose eyeshadows came in small plastic twist top containers, with the name of the company printed in gold, on all of the caps. The bottom of each container is numbered, which makes it convenient to remember all the colors. There are 40 different shades to choose from, so they divided the box into two sections with 20 of the shades on top and 20 shades on the bottom.
I really liked the packaging because it was very sturdy and housed each shadow securely.  I had no issues with any of the colors spilling out or containers being broken.  Personally,  I removed all the shadows and placed them in a separate plastic container as I wanted to be able to carry it around in my kit and I love to reorganize.  Shany Cosmetics made it is possible to stack the shadows by simply removing the covers and twisting one container onto another.

What I loved about this company was the fact that they also gave a bunch of free, little gifts inside of the box. There were nail art stickers,  small lip gloss sample, and some funky clip in hair extensions.  This little touch really showed that they wanted you to try their products so you can purchase from them again.

Another thing to note is upon receiving the shadows they seem very small.  At first I was a little disappointed because I was wondering where the rest of the container was.  Once you open the cap you really get to see how much product is inside.  Each container is literally packed with color so it is important to be careful when twisting the top off.

Cost/ Shipping
Everyone knows that makeup can be expensive.  This product on the other hand is EXTREMELY affordable.  For this box of 40 eyeshadows,  it cost $30.00 USD + shipping!  That is basically $0.75 for each.  I don't know of any place that carries this amount of loose shadows for such an amazing price. The shipping cost was also very reasonable (as I live in Canada and sometimes they charge and arm and a leg for shipping).  I'm not exactly sure of the price that I had to pay for it to be shipped, as I had bought other products from them at the time, but it wasn't more than $20.00 to ship all of my products.  The best part was the shipping time.  It took less than two full weeks for my products to arrive at my front door in perfect condition.

Product Performance/ Swatches 
Now for the best part.  Do these shadows perform well?  Are they pigmented?  Do they last long? Are the easy to use?  Well,  my answer to all those questions is YES!  These shadows are breathtaking.  The pigmentation is out of this world.  The product is so light and soft but the color payoff is impeccable.  You would suspect that being as these are loose shadows, there would be a large amount of fall out.  Personally, I did not experience any fallout when applying these colors to my eyes.  They adhere to the skin so beautifully and stay on all day and night (of course using a primer comes in handy as well).  The most amazing part about it all is the fact that a little bit of these shadows can really pack a huge punch.  When I apply them,  I usually only need to use the leftover shadow from the cover of the plastic container and it is enough product for me.

Check out some swatches:

 Beautiful Peachy pink


 Purple 


Swatch with Flash
Swatch Without Flash

These shadows also have a beautiful hint of shimmer in them.  This doesn't cause them to be grainy/ chalky at all.  They are still extremely soft and smooth to apply.

Overall 
Overall, Shany cosmetics has just received a faithful costumer!  My whole experience from ordering my products to using them has been so pleasant.  I have had no complaints whatsoever with my order.  The price plus the quality is phenomenal and is worth checking out.  These are definitely some shadows you will not be disappointed in.

Some more swatches 



 Before I forget, I must give credit where credit is due.  I wouldn't have purchased or have even know about these shadows if I didn't see them on Samantha Vega a.k.a cosmeticcandiesfyi's youtube channel.  I have been watching her videos for a few months now and when she did a haul/ review on these shadows I knew that I had to try them.  Samantha is an amazing, talented makeup artist who makes youtube videos and also has a blog.   She is extremely informative and always gives her true opinion on products.  I can honestly say that she has never steered me wrong with any of her reviews. So go check her out her youtube channel and her blog to see her opinion and extensive review on these eyeshadows.
Samanthas Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/cosmeticcandiesfyi
Samanthas Blog: http://cosmeticcandiesfyi.com/

Want to see how I use this product, my makeup looks, or just want to contact me,  come follow me at:
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Twitter: @makeupbynealove
Email: makeupbynealove@gmail.com

Disclaimer:  All the products displayed on my blog are purchased by me, with my own money, unless otherwise stated.  I have not been paid to review or discuss any of these products.  I do this because I love it :D
Till next time; stay beautiful,

NeaLove


Sunday, 9 March 2014

Make Up For Ever Face And Body Liquid Make up Review


This foundation has to be one of my mist used, go to products for the past month.  Without a doubt the most versatile product I own, I can truly say that I am in love with this Face and Body.  Keep reading to find out why I love it so much.

In a quest to find a light weight, light to medium coverage foundation, I was directed to the Make Up For Ever Face and Body Liquid Makeup.

Color: Coffee #44- “For deep skin with beige undertones”

Description:
"The secret is all in this top-selling formula. This waterproof, ultra-light, water-based gel contains no emulsifiers and provides a totally natural, satin finish. Ideal for normal skin-types as well as for fine lines and large pores. Gives skin a uniform tone without accentuating imperfections. A makeup artist's favorite.
Dany's Tip: "This foundation is also formulated for the body. Apply a fine layer, let dry three minutes, then blot the excess with a tissue before getting dressed."

Right out of the box
As always,  I do my research before going out and buying a product.  I read so many good reviews and watched a lot of videos on this foundation before I went out and purchased it. 
This foundation came in a standard Make Up For Ever black box.  Once I removed the product I realized that it came in a glass bottle with a nice black pump.  In all honesty,  I am not very fond of glass bottles because of course risk of braking it.  I knew it was sturdy when I dropped the bottle not even three hours after I got hope but lucky no harm was done ( I do not suggest you try it either) :D  I loved the fact that it had a pump because I am able to control the amount of product that I want to use and it is just so much more convenient and hygienic.

Now, the first thing I noticed when applying the foundation to the back of my hand was its consistency.

Texture and Consistency
Unlike other foundations I am use to,  this one has a very liquid/ runny texture. This is mainly because this product is water based.  Although it was very thin, it had a gel like texture when placed onto the skin.  For me,  I prefer to use my hands with this because I find that my brushes and sponge often suck up a lot of the product and I have to use more.  Also when I use my hand,  the warmth of my fingers helps thicken up the product for a more build-able coverage. Once evenly applied to the face I allow the product to dry.  If need be, I then apply another coat if I feel that I want more coverage.

One important fact to note is that it has a very light to medium coverage.  I personally wouldn't recommend this for somebody who wants a fully coverage/ flawless face.  It is intended to this simply evens out the skin while adding a nice natural glow.

Lasting Power and Performance  
Now, the only draw back I had when buying this was my skin. I have combination to oily skin (oily in my T-zone) and I was worried that by the afternoon I would be shining like a disco ball.  I wore this foundation to work, where I am on my feet for at least 8 hours at a very fast pace clinic.  On that day,  I had no opportunity to even look at my face while at work because we were so busy.  Once I got home and looked in the mirror, I was amazed to see how well the foundation held up.  It looked amazing!  I was a little bit shiny on my nose (where I always apply powder) but it didn't look oily, it just gave off a beautiful glow.

Another thing people may not like is that the Face and Body does have a little scent. It isn't anything too disturbing and you don't smell it when applied to the face.

I personally believe that this can be used all year round for just a perfect, glowing skin.  If i am not mistaken,  this product is waterproof and once set it does not transfer.  I can not forget to mention that it photographs phenomenally without any detection of a white cast.  Really great for bridal and photo shoots as well.

Its versatility comes into play because of its many uses. It can be applied on it's own, with powder,  mixed with cream foundations to sheer them out, mixed with other full coverage liquid foundations or used on the body.  It really is great to use for a multitude of jobs; which is why I plan on purchasing other colors so I can have them in my kit.

Coinage 
The price for this product is $46.00, online at Sephora.com, for a 50 ml bottle.  The good thing about this is if used correctly,  you will only need a little bit of product.  This means that one bottle can last you a very long time.

Overall Impression 
After using this liquid make up for one month straight I fell in love.  Definitely an amazing investment  and it performs exactly the way I expected it to.  This is now one of my Holy grail items which I will be repurchasing as long as it is being sold. 

Here are some looks I have created using the Make Up For Ever Face and Body:




Disclaimer:  All the products displayed on my blog are purchased by me with my money unless otherwise stated.  I have not been paid to review or discuss any of these products.  I do it because I love it :D

Till next time; stay beautiful,

NeaLove



Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade Review

Eyebrows are one of the most important factors to a complete makeup look.  Ensuring that they are groomed and maintained, helps shape a person’s face.  With that being said; it's important to have good products that can help out with that process.

This weekend I had the opportunity to stop by Sephora and purchase one of the Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow pomades. I have heard a lot about this product and was not sure I really needed it.  Like most makeup junkies, we often find ways to convince ourselves that we need all the latest and grates makeup out there.   So I went head and purchased the pomade.

Color: Chocolate

Right out of the box
This product comes beautifully packaged in a nice, sleek, black box.  The pomade itself is held in a 4.0g/ 0.14oz, twist top, glass jar.  The packaging resembles a gel liner container (which I have heard the pomade can be used for ).  The bottom of the box describes this product as a: "Waterproof brow color ideal for sculpting, defining, and carving perfectly precise brows that won't fade.  Smudge- free, creamy formula glides on skin and adheres to hair.  Must- have for oily skin and humid climates. Tighten cap to prevent drying."  
The jar itself has Anastasia Beverly Hills written in black writing along the sides with the color of the product displayed on the bottom.  Overall, I love the packaging.  It is beautiful, sleek, and sophisticated but simple and to the point. 

Once you open the jar, the first thing you will notice is the pomades texture and color (which really does look like chocolate).

Swatch without flash

     
Swatch with flash

Performance and Consistency 
 Once I opened the product, I swatched it on my arm to view the consistency and the pigmentation. People are definitely right when they say that a little bit goes a LONG way.  With the smallest amount of pomade,  I was able to create the swatch above with just one swipe. The pigmentation is absolutely amazing, not to mention it is extremely creamy and easy to apply.

It is also great because it allows you to work with the product and doesn't dry up on you while you are trying to achieve your desired look.  Once you have completed the application and allow the product to sit, this stuff doesn't budge.  I am not sure if it is truly waterproof as I have not gone in water to test it out. I can tell you that I have accidentally rubbed my face during the day and it did not transfer or dissapear.  Not to mention the longevity of this product is NUTS.  My brows have been able to look exactly the same as I have applied it after 10 hours of wear. I lasts long and tames my brows all at the same time,  which is always a good thing.

Overall 
Overall, I am so impressed by the Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade.  It does exactly what it says and truly lives up to the hype.  I have to make another trip to Sephora in the coming weeks to try out a few more shades. 

Price
I almost forgot the mention the price.  This product retails for $24.00 plus tax (Canadian dollars).  Yes, I know, I was also surprised by the price as well.  Don't get me wrong, I love a great deal and I know that some people may feel that this is a bit expensive for a brow product but it is truly worth EVERY penny. Plus your eyebrows will love you for it!

If you are unsure, go to Sephora and ask for a tester and see if you like it before you commit to purchasing it.  If you love it, buy it, if not, you won’t have to worry about having to return it.

Disclaimer:  All the products displayed on my blog are purchased by me with my money unless otherwise stated.  I have not been paid to review or discuss any of these products.  I do it because I love it :D

Till next time, stay beautiful
NeaLove



Tuesday, 4 March 2014



Almost one month away,  IMATS New York is approaching quickly.  If you don't know what IMATS is, well, its essentially a makeup artists/lovers dream.  The acronym, IMATS, stands for the International Make-up Artist Trade show, which consists of vendors, shows and speakers displaying and talking all things makeup.  This event usually runs for an entire weekend in different cities around the world.  I am very excited to be attending this IMATS because I want to get out of my city, travel, and meet new people who share the same love for makeup as I do.  My very  first IMATS experience was in Toronto, my home town, in November 2013.  My main goal at that time was to focus on buying a whole bunch of makeup at amazing discounted prices. Man, oh, man did I SPEND a lot of $$$ at that event.

 With that being said it's really important to understand what your getting into (and i'm not trying to scare you, just trying to prepare you lol). One very important thing to note is the utter madness that transpires. I think that once you experience the CRAZINESS of one show, you will be able to handle any other trade show.  It can be overwhelming at first. There is so much going on and lots of people moving about but the atmosphere is so much fun especially because you are sharing it with people who have the same interest.  There is no way around the fact that you have to pack your patience. There will be a lot of waiting in long lines, people pushing and not being able to see or get the products that you really want.  At that point it is really up to you to make the experience worth while and interesting.  The key to it all is being organized and open minded.

Now my IMATS New York experience will be about shopping (especially for my kit) but I also want to watch a number of seminars and try to learn as much as possible while I'm there. This event couldn't have fallen at a better time for me because it is going to be an amazing early birthday present and even better reason for me to do some shopping :)  My countdown has begun!  I honestly can not wait to see the tons of lashes, funky special effects, pretty lipsticks and hundreds palettes to choose from.  Until then, I will have to dream about how amazing my IMATS trip is going to be.
Hope to see y'all in April.
Welcome to Makeup By NeaLove where you can follow me and my complete passion for makeup and its artistry.  Read reviews, scroll through makeup looks and watch me travel and grow to new heights.  This is positive atmosphere where if nothing else, love is felt.