Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Clinique 3-Step System for Very Dry/Dry Skin Review

Clinique 3-Step System for Very Dry/Dry Skin Review

Can you tell which step is my favorite? Lol


Hey, guys. I just wanted to share my experience with the Clinique 3-step system (skin type 1 aka very dry/dry). I know it has been out there a really long time, and I'm really late to jump on the train. However, looking at the products, they just never struck me as something that could really help. Anyway, long story short, I was growing really tired of my incredibly flakey chin and forehead. I figured I was cursed to live with dry, flakey skin forever. Then, I ran into step 2 at a CCO and decided why not? It was only about $12 and had trial sizes of the other 2 steps. I initially only tried out step 2. I have to say it made such an incredible difference in the amount of flakes I saw. My makeup applied so much better! No catching on the flakes on my chin. I decided to go ahead and test out the other two products. The cleanser is very nice and creamy. No lather, since foam dries out the skin. It isn't scented either, so that can be nice depending on your preference. The moisturizer is really nice as well. It is very hydrating and sinks into the skin very quickly. I made my foundation application even better that I ever thought possible. I don't believe the cleanser is an absolute must-have or even a game-changer. However, steps 2 and 3 have absolutely helped my skin. I have been able to experiment with different foundations and make them work. Whereas before, I could work with literally 3 foundations and that was it. I would definitely take the plunge. The products are definitely reasonably priced, especially for high end. If you don't want to spend all the money skip the cleanser. However, if you just can't spend the money, then at least try step 2. It was definitely a game changer for me and only costs about $13 wherever Clinique is sold. If you do go ahead with this system, remember to get the products for skin type 1 (although is says dry/very dry on all the products).

Bottom Line: Impressed

February 2014 Ipsy Bag

February 2014 Ipsy Bag

Hey, guys! Here is a look at this month's Ipsy bag. 



The bag this month was just a plain pink bag. Simple and nice. I would use it. Included in this month's bag were the following 5 items: eyelashes, an eyeliner, a lipgloss, a blush, and a nail polish. Here's a closer look at the individual products: 


First, we have some J.cat Eyelashes in EL15. They aren't the most natural looking lashes. They're pretty glam, so I'm not sure they're something I would use. I tend to prefer more natural ones when I do wear lashes, even when I wear them with smokey eyes. We'll see what happens. 


Next, we have a full size Mally Evercolor Starlight Waterproof Liner in the shade Starshine. I was really excited to receive this in my bag this month. I've heard many wonderful things about Mally products, particularly the liners. I must admit the shade isn't my favorite, however I do think it would be nice on the lower lash line. It is incredibly creamy and glides on so smoothly. 


Next, is this POP Beauty lip gloss in the shade Peony Petal. It's a deluxe sample size. Very generous amount. It's a nice bright mauve-ish, pinky color. I will say though that it is a little bit on the drier side. The finish doesn't remain glossy for long, and it is a little drying on the lips. However, the gloss is very nicely pigmented so it's a so-so product. Not sure I would purchase it myself.  


Next, is this HUGE full size City Color Blush in the shade Fresh Melon. This blush is the size of a powder compact. Unfortunately, it doesn't include a mirror. I've never heard of this brand, so I looked up this product and found that it retails for $2.99 on their site. It's very inexpensive and you get a huge amount of product. It's a very pigmented blush, but it isn't the easiest to blend. It's slightly patchy, and I find I have to work somewhat harder to blend it nice and evenly. The color is really nice though, one of my new faves. It's so fresh looking on the cheeks. 


Last, but not least, is this full size Zoya nail polish in the color Odette. It's a gorgeous lilac purple shade. I normally don't like getting nail polish in my subscriptions, but I really liked the color, so I was definitely pleasantly surprised. 

So, there it is. I really enjoyed this month's bag. The products in it definitely surpassed it's $10 price tag. The liner alone is worth $15. Amazing deal! 


Bottom line: IMPRESSED!

What did you guys get in your bag or other subscription service?