Covering Up

 I have recently developed a better relationship with makeup. For years I would just apply powder mascara, eyeliner, smokey eye shadow, chap stick and call it a day. Most of the time I would not even bother applying moisturizer or even a primer. I just never saw the need of applying so much product to my face and always assumed the more product I add to my overly sensitive skin the more my pores would become clogged. 

 About 3 years ago I discovered PUR minerals and was pleasantly impressed with the amount of coverage I got from their 4-in-1 pressed mineral makeup foundation. So much was I impressed that I replaced my Bare Mineral powder with PUR minerals. I made the change based on the fact that I felt PUR minerals provided a better coverage plus Bare Minerals powder had recently changed and now had a glitter effect which had me looking like Edward from Twilight (not a good look). 

 The price difference between both products is none as they both cost $27 but the powder from PUR Minerals will last me a little over 2 months. Another, plus with the PUR Mineral powder is that  it protects the skin with SPF 15 and has skincare ingredients to help heal troubled skin. For the past 3 years I have loved my PUR minerals and still do however, over the years my face complexion has changed and I have acne scarring which is more visible. I went on a hunt for a nice light concealer I could apply prior to my powder because I hate feeling heavy product on my face and most liquid product can cause me to breakout (damn my sensitive skin). The first concealer I fell for was from Tarte I love their products! However, the concealer stick was $18 dollars and barely lasting a month. 

 After more searching and asking around I discovered a cute little concealer from NYX this past year. Now, when I tell you that this concealer was a perfect replacement to Tarte's concealer I mean it. The coverage is better with NYX, the product last me nearly twice as longer than the Tarte concealer and the best part...it's under five dollars!

 Below take a look at the products and the coverage both products provide for my acne scars. My shade in PUR Minerals is: Medium dark and the shade of the NYX concealer I use is: Glow.

 I will note that my skin care routine does include a cleanser, a toner, moisturizer and primer prior to applying any makeup.

You can purchase both products at your nearest ULTA store or simply by visiting their respective sites:

www.ulta.com

www.purminerals.com

www.nyxcosmetics.com

Have you tried either one of these products? or any other products of either brand? what was your experience?

Live. Laugh. Love.

Michelle Marie

Pretty Nails Without the Cost

 I love going to the salon to get my nails done, I think you can agree there's nothing better than being pampered. However, around here a good manicure will put me back about $20 plus tip, every 2 weeks! Now that's just more than I am willing to pay just for a manicure. Don't get me wrong it's great getting your nails done and if you have the time and can afford the cost every two weeks go for it.

  As for me getting a manicure is really something I tend to do either for special occasions or just when I need the pampering. For the most part I opt to do my own manicures as it fits best with my budget and after many years of doing my own nails I have gotten pretty good at the craft.

Here's what you will need:

Cuticle Cutter

Nail Buffer

Acetone

Cuticle Pusher (can be wooden or metal;both pictured above)

Cotton Balls

Nail File

Base Coat

Top Coat

Cuticle Cream/Oil

A bowl of warm soapy water

Steps to Beautiful Nails:

The first thing you should do is remove any oil, left over polish etc. Using the cotton balls and acetone.

Next, using the nail file shape your nails as you desire (I prefer square with Slightly round corners). Once your done apply cuticle lotion or cuticle oil to your cuticles.

 Now go ahead and soak your hands in the bowl of warm soapy water about five to ten minutes this will soften your cuticle.

Dry your hands off and using the cuticle pusher gently push back the cuticle of each nail. Using the cuticle cutter carefully cut the excess cuticle. Once done, buff each nail and wash hands off.

The last step is to paint your beautifully clean and sculpted nails. Remember to apply a base coat, 2 layers of the desired color and a top coat. Allow nails to dry a minute or two between applications.

Now your ready to go out and show off your nails. 

Live. Laugh. Love

Michelle Marie