Review: Medusa's Make-up

Autumn is officially here (although it is more like winter for some) and I have been turning to warmer, nude shades in my makeup case.  But let's face it, we all have our basic browns and so I am always on the lookout for "new nudes" - the warmth and simplicity you love from nude shades, but in updated colors.  Luckily, I just so happened to purchase some "new nudes" from Medusa's Make-up.

Medusa's Make-up has a romantic history.  A husband and wife team opened a boutique back in the 90's and created signature cosmetics for their shop.  In 2005, the duo launched their full makeup line.  Their products are all cruelty-free and many options are vegan, and they offer a little bit of everything: glitter, lipstick, skincare, etc. 

I was initially drawn to the Safari Eyeshadow set: 12 pressed shadows in coordinating shades for just $35.  I also ordered a lipstick at $12, and a vegan eye makeup remover, 4 ounces for $8.  First up, the eyes.

The above swatches are done on bare skin without primer or lotion underneath.  The colors from top to bottom:  Jungle Fever, Black Gold, Tarzan, Desert Rose, Headhunter, Maneater, Liger, Xtinct, Venom, Voodoo.  (Note: I am actually giving two of the shades, Amulet and Midnight Oil, as gifts so they are not pictured.)

The Pros:

These shades range from bright blue and green to rust, pink and brown.  As you can see from the swatches, however, all of the colors work beautifully together and they would be positively ideal on any skin tone.  I was amazed at how wearable these colors are.  All of the colors have a sheen to them but, again, very subtle.  I adore the sparkle without the glitter.  These are surely going to take the place of your daily colors.  The consistency is like butter and, though somewhat powdery, they are very easy to blend for subtle smokey eye looks.

The Cons:

Of all of the eyeshadows I have reviewed, Medusa's are the least pigmented.  You're going to end up with a soft wash of color versus extremely bright, solid colors.  The above look was done using an eyeshadow primer and a sponge applicator.  Sadly, all of Medusa's Make-up's eyeshadows contain talc, a filler I am not too keen on, and beeswax, so they are not vegan friendly - No worries, however, there's no animal testing!

  
Medusa's Make-up currently offers 8 shades of lipstick, all of which are vegan.  The above shade is Baroque, perhaps best described as a pale sangria shade: a mix of magenta and burgundy.  It is pictured in the look above and below. 

The Pros:

With a semi-matte finish, this smooth wearing lipstick feels more like a balm when applied.  It is fragrance-free and long wearing.  I wore this out to dinner and only needed a single touch up despite eating and drinking!  It also has a nice base color about it that just so happened to whiten my smile.  I really like the packaging, it's sleek but unique and just a touch vintage.  In addition, Medusa's has also added lip gloss to their lineup although I have not yet had the pleasure of trying it out. 

The Cons:

Again I find myself disappointed when inexpensive fillers find their way into otherwise awesome cosmetics - in this case, mineral oil.  Mineral oil is not a deal breaker, but it is worth noting.  

Afterthoughts:

I advise you to join Medusa Make-up on its various social media channels, as they announce sales and the like there.  You can also keep updated on new product releases and see photo swatches.

I rarely comment on the websites themselves as I'm far from a graphic designer; however, I find Medusa's website terribly confusing and difficult to navigate. For example, if you visit the "eyeshadow" page, you will find the Safari set priced at $59; however, if you visit the "deals" page, it's $35.  There are absolutely no swatches to be found either so you will be guessing, at best, on the way the colors really look when applied.  One bonus is that Medusa's offers free shipping with orders of $25 or more.  You can also give an e-gift certificate in any amount you choose so gifting is ridiculously easy. 

Review: LunatiCK Cosmetic Labs

Hopefully you all are in a spooktacular mood, because I am pleased to bring you this review on the most Halloween-centric cosmetics brand I've had the pleasure of discovering.  LunatiCK Cosmetic Labs specializes in vegan, cruelty-free and talc-free cosmetics from basic nudes to black light reactive neons.  They pride themselves on offering special effects makeup as well as makeup for your everyday wear.  I was thrilled by their packaging (if you couldn't tell by now, I'm a sucker for unique cosmetics and clever packaging) and color combinations.

Just look at that palette!  It's a beauty.  This is the Oracle palette.  The colors, from left to right:  Intuition, Spirit, Premonition, HooDoo, Summon.  Intuition and Spirit are metallic finishes - no glitter, but lots of sheen.  Premonition is a great highlighter or blending shade and, while it has some sheen to it, is perhaps best described as semi-matte.  Hoodoo and Summon are chock full of iridescent, super-fine milled glitter for the sparkle lover in all of us.  

I have swatched these colors over LunatiCK Lab's primer, which is pure white and slightly tacky to the touch.  It can be used as a pure white base plus primer, or spread on more sparingly to be a primer alone.  Colors, from left to right:  Summon, HooDoo, Premonition, Spirit, Intuition.  

I did this look using the Oracle palette and the brand's ApocalipSLICK in Coven Cream ($9).  They are buttery lip creams that fall somewhere between a lipstick and a lip gloss with a mostly matte finish.  They also smell like watermelon Bubble Yum! 

The Pros:

These eye shadows are extremely smooth and heavily pigmented.  LunatiCK Labs has taken all of the brilliant pigment power of a loose shadow and pressed it into convenient palette form.  Each individual eye shadow cake comes with a presser - a little plastic piece that you can use to press the shadows down with if they happen to become too loose/powdery.  I have yet to have any major fallout from these pressed shadows, but who knows.  I have saved the best for last:  LunatiCK Labs offers CUSTOMIZED palettes!  That's right, you can choose from their many eye shadow colors to create a palette with whatever shades you desire!  Custom palettes are the same price as their regular palettes ($35) but, to my understanding, the custom palettes do not come with the pressers.  Because all of their cosmetics are cruelty-free AND vegan, you don't have to scope out every color to find vegan options.  This brand is absolutely ideal for those who don't compromise: cruelty-free, vegan, and no fillers like talc.  

The Cons:

LunatiCK Labs does not seem to run as many sales as do other indie makeup companies.  While prices are reasonable and competitive, you may choose to stock up while there's an applicable discount.  There does not seem to be any fragrance in the eye shadows, but there is in the ApocalipSLICKS.  It is a very noticeable scent; while not unpleasant to me, personally, those with allergies may be irritated by it.  

Overall, I am very impressed with LunatiCK Cosmetic Lab's product line and look forward to purchasing more.  Happy Halloween, beauties!

Review: My Pretty Zombie Cosmetics

Despite some recent dental woes, I am absolutely feeling the Fall season.  Pumpkin spice is everywhere from my candles to my kitchen, I've busted out the autumnal decor, and now as we near closer to my favorite holiday, Halloween, it seems only right that I review My Pretty Zombie cosmetics at this time.  Started in 2010, the self proclaimed underground cosmetics company has creativity to spare.  From their Butcher Shop Collection (ironic since some of the shades are vegan) to the WTF Collection, the unique colors and mantra of the brand are just plain fun.  MPZ cosmetics also offers blush in addition to their loose mineral eye shadows, and a wonderful little thing called Mr. Pickles Miraculous Beauty Dust.

Chances are you are wondering about the photo at top.  The five shadows I purchased came packaged in a black, Chinese food takeout style box with MPZ's signature "severed finger" attached with a pink ribbon.  Needless to say, I got quite a kick out of it.  

The photo above was taken in artificial light and, as they are mostly pastels, it's a bit difficult to capture their true beauty.  From top to bottom:  Tenderloin, Fatback, Celery and Bile, Law Firm Lamb Cake, and Rabid Weasel (I chose the You Pick 5 Eyeshadow Set for $20).  Tenderloin and Fatback are from the Butcher Shop Collection.  Tenderloin is a gorgeous shade of red wine with a purple/blue shift and Fatback is a surprisingly feminine, baby pink with an iridescent quality to it.  Celery and Bile is a mint green with a white gold shift, and Rabid Weasel is a matte gray with a blue undertone to it.  I must address Law Firm Lamb Cake separately for several reasons:  1 - I'm a lawyer and "law firm" has never, EVER made it into the cosmetics realm in this fashion.  2 - This is an extremely unique formula.  It's a mix of iridescent white/gray shadow with bits of iridescent glitter mixed in!  It requires a primer, preferably a glitter adhesive, but it's absolutely amazing on.  I fully intend to mix it into some lip gloss just for fun one of these days.  3 - It makes an excellent highlighter.  Just perfect.  It is my favorite of the lot.

Above is a quick eye look I did using Fatback all over, and Tenderloin in the crease.

The Pros:

If you're a gal that likes unique makeup that's just a touch on the dark side, MPZ is for you.  I just love how this brand doesn't take itself too seriously and has fun, exciting color options for every taste.  There are many ways to purchase eye shadows, too.  Although I can't see how you could resist buying multiple shades, you can purchase one single pot, a whole collection, or colors from the entire line.  The website clearly states what is safe for eyes and lips, and also which shades are vegan.  Have an adventurous cosmetics lover in your life?  MPZ offers gift cards, which is a perfect way to let a friend try this loveable line.  5 gram eyeshadow pots are $5 each, and I received 2 sample shadows and a sample of Mr. Pickles Miraculous Beauty Dust (finishing powder) - LOVE.

The Cons:

The website recently got a makeover and although it is easy to navigate, things seem to be in strange order... Prices are also confusing in that a collection of 4 or 5 shades may sell for $20, but choosing 3 shades runs about $15.  You'll want to check around to be sure you're getting the best deal, whatever route you're taking.  I'm a rather clumsy person and I prefer my loose shadows to come with a sifter for that very reason (fyi - sifters are the little plastic covers with the holes in them that's just under the lid of the eyeshadow pot).  There are no sifters with these shadows and so it requires a little extra caution when opening as there's nothing to hold the shadows in place once the lid is off. 

My Pretty Zombie is a little bit creepy and a lot pretty.  There's no need for a lot of fluff or fancy advertising here, just quality cosmetics... and fun.

Review: Beauty Bar Baby

No parabens, sulfates, talc, preservatives, fragrances, dyes or fillers.  Almost 400 items to choose from.  Various sizes and prices on products with 5 gram shadow pots as low as $3... I could go on and on and all of these rave reviews are about one shop offering cruelty-free and vegan makeup: Beauty Bar Baby.  I was in awe over the variety and, of course, purchased plenty for sampling.  I've split the review into two parts, eyes and lips.  I have so many lovely photos to share, let's get to it!

The Eyes:

BBB offers an overwhelming range of shades and formulas from duo chromes to glitters to matte finish eye shadows. Below are some swatches for your viewing pleasure:

From left to right, $3 each for 5 gram pots: 'Lectric Pink (glitter) over Sephora's glitter primer, Enchantress (matte) on bare skin, Santa's Suit (duo chrome) on bare skin, and That's Really Bananas! (duo chrome) on bare skin. 

The glitter, like other formulas, does not adhere to skin without some type of primer or adhesive.  Beauty Bar Baby's is a bit different, however.  It appears to be a glitter/pigment hybrid so you're getting an extra bump in color with the glitz of your traditional glitter. 

The above is an eye look utilizing the 'Lectric Pink glitter.  It is far more sparkly in person; it's tough to capture glitter in a photograph.

Enchantress is a lovely, gray based lilac.  Santa's Suit is my favorite of the bunch, a red/gold/green shift with more sparkle then most duo chromes I've come across in the market.  That's Really Banana's is a true yellow to iridescent shift that is surprisingly wearable.  I used it in the look below:

The Lips:

Under the luscious lips category, BBB offers more formulas than colors, and that's just fine by me.  I had to have a lip balm in Pumpkin Spice ($2.75); it's smooth and silky and the fragrance is the finest I have come across in handmade lip balms.  Below are swatches of the lipstick and Lip Potions I got my hands on:

From top to bottom ($6 each): Unicorn Kisses lipstick in Princess Candace, Lip Potion in Stroke of Midnight, and Lip Potion in Ritualistic.  Below are some swatches on the lips for another look at these goodies:

A look using Princess Candace semi-matte lipstick.  This stuff is like butter!  It is smooth and opaque and is the consistency of melted lipstick in a tube.  It is best applied with a brush even though packaged in a lip balm tube.  If you want opaque coverage that is mostly a matte finish without all the dryness, this is the formula for you. 

Above is Stroke of Midnight.  It is packaged in a 5 gram pot and requires a brush to apply it.  It is a very thick, very pigmented gloss texture that can work as a sheer wash of color, or become opaque with a heavier application.  It's a glossy finish, as well.  Same applies for Ritualistic, below:

The Pros:

Everything was priced below $10, and at just $3 for eye shadow pots, you can afford some fun, fashion forward colors you may otherwise pass up if you're on a budget.  The eye shadows - particularly the duo chromes - have more sparkle to them then I am accustom to and I love them.  They are absolutely beautiful and I have found no sparkle to compare as yet.  Princess Candace, from the Unicorn Kisses collection, feels amazing on and that is rare for matte finish lipsticks.  I am terribly impressed with the Lip Potions too, as you can wear them in many different ways.  I swatched them heavily in the photos, but they can be used as a light gloss, or added to a lip balm, the possibilities are endless.  

The Cons:

If you plan on achieving full coverage with the Lip Potions, you'll likely need a similarly colored base lipstick or it can look splotchy.  Without lip liner, the Lip Potions also tend to bleed.  It takes some doing, but they're wonderful and easy to use if you apply a sheer coat.  

Bonus Information:

Overall, I am very pleased with everything I purchased and, if you are reading this now (September 23, 2014) I urge you to rush on over to Beauty Bar Baby's shop because the seller is offering a limited edition Halloween collection!  It is available for pre-order now and is $23 and filled with tons of goodies.  Did I mention it is packaged in an adorable wooden coffin?  I know I'm excited about it!

FYI: Talcum Powder and Cancer

As you may know by now, I'm a lawyer by day and budding beauty blogger by night.  I was genuinely surprised when I realized the two seemingly unrelated activities intersect frequently - but rarely in a good way.  As a beauty blogger, I like to be aware of what sort of ingredients are in the cosmetics I purchase and review.  As a lawyer, I receive information on said ingredients when there's a problem with them.  Enter the talcum powder lawsuits.  Back in 2009, a study by Dr. Margaret Gates and the National Cancer Institute and National Institute of Health led to the first of many lawsuits regarding the link between talcum powder and ovarian cancer.  These lawsuits are still ongoing nationwide.  So, what do you need to know about this common ingredient?  Here's the deal.

What is talc?

Talc is a mineral that absorbs moisture and protects skin from friction.  As you can see from the advertisement above, women have been using talc in the form of talcum powder for years.  However, talcum powder is mostly commonly referred to today as "baby powder."  Prior to the 1970's, naturally occurring talc, ground into powder form, contained asbestos.  Although asbestos is banned these days, in a 2013 lawsuit, it was alleged that studies showed that even asbestos-free talcum powder had the potential to cause ovarian cancer.

 

Where is talc?

Most dusting powders for adults or baby powders for infants contain talcum powder as the main (sometimes only) ingredient.  Talc is also a filler in certain eye shadows, face powders, foundations, blush and bronzers, etc.  You should check any powder based cosmetics ingredients list to see if talc is included.

 

Is talc really a threat?

The American Cancer Society summed up some of the research that has been going on in relation to the link between cancer and talcum powder.  So far the research has been focused on use of talcum powder in the genital area and the findings are mixed.  Some research suggested an increased risk to women of as much as 30%, and the International Agency for Research on Cancer, which is part of the World Health Organization, has declared asbestos-free talc to be "possibly carcinogenic" to humans.

How to avoid talc?

I'm no scientist and I don't intend to dictate whether or not people should avoid talcum powder entirely, but it is worth further research and consideration by we the consumers.  If, like me, you prefer to err on the side of caution, check the ingredients in any and all cosmetics you purchase.  If the ingredients aren't listed on the packaging, you may be able to find that information online on the manufacturer's website(s).  Just because a product is cruelty-free does not mean it is talc-free.  Luckily, due to the attention talc is getting these days, many makeup companies proudly declare if/when their products are talc-free.

At the end of the day it is up to the savvy consumer to do his or her homework before making a purchase.  The research on talc is still in its infancy but it is my personal belief that it is an unnecessary "filler" and there are many wonderful brands that don't use it.  Hopefully you find this information useful and it leads you to further research.

Review: Lime Crime

If you're a fan of indies, then you've likely heard of their darling: Lime Crime.  You've also probably read the good, the bad, and the ugly surrounding Lime Crime's founder, Doe Deere.  I, personally, am only concerned about makeup and sharing my opinion on the products.  So, let's just stick to that, shall we?  Lime Crime is a cruelty-free and vegan brand that most people know for their lip products.  However, they offer several palettes in the adorable tin packaging pictured above.  I chose Alchemy, a shimmery duo-chrome lineup that is perfect for building up a solid lineup of autumn colors.

Above I've swatched the Alchemy palette collection of pressed eye shadows.  Whenever I swatch, I use an ordinary eye shadow sponge and do one swipe across dry skin; no primer or lotion of any kind beneath.  I photograph the swatches in natural light (whenever possible) and don't filter the finished photo.  The colors from top to bottom:  Divination, Spellbound, Love Potion No9, Lucky Charm, and Incantation.

My two favorites, Divination, a brilliant, blue-based teal, and Love Potion No9, a dreamy lavender, are peacock-feather perfection, while the curious but wearable additions of Lucky Charm, a grass green shimmer, and Incantation, the color of a pumpkin spice latte or a burnt bronze/orange shift, remind me of an autumnal pumpkin patch.  Spellbound is a classic, blendable highlighter that works wonders in tying all of these shades together. 

A look I did utilizing ALL of the colors from the Alchemy palette.  I am also wearing Lime Crime's opaque lipstick in Coquette.  

A close up look at the above; I used Spellbound along my brow bone, with Love Potion No9 in the crease.  Lucky Charm is the true green on my lid with Incantation along my upper lashes.  The lower liner is Divination.

The Pros:

I love a palette that combines unusual colors one wouldn't normally include in the same collection.  As my makeup collection grows, I find myself seeking out the unique.  This is definitely it.  I didn't really have colors like these in my makeup bag.  The colors are vibrant but the formula is soft enough that it blends well.  You can layer this stuff on there for extremely vivid looks, or, like I did, blend it out for a wash of color.  I was pleased that the pressed cakes didn't turn to loose powder fall-out immediately upon use, as some tend to do.  The packaging is adorable and functional; it's just large enough to house the shadows without wasting space in my ever shrinking makeup case.

The Cons:

Pressed eye shadow palettes are never as budget-friendly as their loose shadow counterparts.  Ringing in at $35 the palette is still less expensive than major store brands, but may be too pricey for budget babes.  Unfortunately, it appears that once these palettes sell out, they won't be restocked.  I've yet to see a sale or promotional codes for Lime Crime, something I always hail indie brands for, but that is not to say they do not have them - just nothing I've come across.  

I'm having tons of fun with this palette, and it seems like that is the goal behind Lime Crime.  Regardless of their "politics" (for lack of a better term) the eye shadows are bold, bright and a great addition to any makeup collection.

Review: CDB Lacquer

As a follow up to my introduction to indie polishes, I figured I'd review one of the first brands I purchased.  I happened upon CDB Lacquer when a follower on Instagram recommended it - and, of course, posted pictures of the fabulous colors.  5-free, handmade lacquers in tons of colors and glitters - if you're a fan of glitter in various shapes, textures, colors and finishes, you'll be thrilled with CDB Lacquer - I was excited.  

CDB Lacquer offers three sizes of nail polish bottles to choose from: petite, mini, and full size.  If there is a color you're lusting after but aren't quite sure it suits you, the petite bottles are ideal for sampling at a reasonable price.  The full size polish is 13 ML (the same amount as an Essie polish) and is pictured at top; however, CDB Lacquer has recently upgraded its bottles to a square shape with flat brushes for easier application.  

Pictured above is "Radiant" from the "Vivid Vixens" collection.  Gnarled cuticles aside, it's a yellow/gold shifting polish with a faint glitter sheen to it.  I purchased this in the mini size just to try out.  I used two coats of the polish with a clear top coat.  It applied buttery smooth and was not thick or lumpy in any way.  

Pictured above and at top is "Nothing is Impossible," a very pale white/blue crelly with turquoise and black glitter with larger iridescent/silver, circular glitter.  I was impressed with how smooth all of those various glitters laid once the polish dried!  I have tried some glitter polishes from mainstream brands (e.g. OPI, Essie, Sally Hansen...) and had issues with the glitter raising up or peeling - not the case with CDB Lacquer.  After a clear top coat was applied, my nails felt almost completely smooth to the touch.

The Pros:

CDB offers a reasonably priced lineup of very creative nail polishes.  Most full sized polishes are around $8 each.  They have sales pretty routinely and free shipping options all the time so you're sure to get a great deal.  The polishes are 5-free (see my previous post on what that means for you and your health) and have very little odor to them (you know, that "nail polish smell"). The glitter in these polishes didn't settle at the bottom, so there was no fishing to be done upon application.

The Cons:

If you prefer to shop for your nail polish in store or simply don't do any shopping online, you won't be able to get your pretty little hands on CDB Lacquer.  Shipping may be limited or unavailable depending on what country you're in.

Overall, I was impressed with the quality of these polishes.  They last for a good two weeks without chipping.  If you want to dip your toes into the indie nail polish waters - literally and figuratively - the many options at CDB Lacquer will make it a very pleasant experience.

FYI: Indie Nail Polish Decoded!

It bears repeating: I love indie brands.  What is an indie brand?  Quite simply an independent brand most people associate with small businesses.  It may be a one-person shop or a rather large sized operation, but they all offer unique and fun products that you won't find at your local drug store or supermarket.  Indie nail polish is a vast market where creativity knows no bounds and there is glitter galore in colors and shapes you never knew existed.  But sometimes it seems like those indie polish gals are speaking a totally different language.  So, what's it all about and what are you getting into?  Here are a few "translations" that may help you as you begin, or expand, your journey.

Common Terminology:

Jelly - This is a description of the consistency of the nail polish.  A jelly polish is, well, like jelly you spread on toast!  It is glassy and generally somewhat sheer; it takes several coats to get opaque coverage.  It is a great vehicle for floating tons of creatively shaped glitter.
 

Crelly - Pictured above, a combination of the terms "cream" and "jelly" = "crelly." It relates to the consistency of the polish.  Like a jelly polish, it is not entirely opaque and, in addition, is creamy or cloudy.  Crelly polishes can be glossy or matte but are all milky.

Holo - Short for "holographic," these polishes shimmer and shine like no other.  No thick or chunky glitters here, it's more of an overall sheen that shifts color in varying lighting.

Undies - Just a cute way of referring to a base coat (you know, the clear polish you may or may not put down first before your color of choice).

3-Free - There are potentially harmful chemicals in nail polish, a topic of debate that recently caused even big name brands to change their formulas.  3-free nail polish is formulated without Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP), formaldehyde, and toluene. 

5-Free - Taking it a step further, 5-free nail polish nixes all the above, but also excludes camphor and formaldehyde resin.  Many 5-free polishes boast vegan and even pregnancy-safe formulas (be sure to check all labeling to be sure as these are not requirements, just nice bonuses).

Why Indie Nail Polish:

There are so many benefits to most any indie brands.  You're supporting small businesses and most all indie companies offer cruelty-free nail polish; many are vegan.  Because these small companies are all about the creativity of the maker, there are countless colors and styles of polish that are completely unique; everyone will be asking, "where did you get that nail polish?" These guys don't have the overhead of major brands either, so sales are abundant.  If a new collection is coming out or the maker wants to clear out some discontinued shades, you can save more than 50% off regular prices, which are already lower than store brands.  Ever wanted to design your very own nail polish?  Indie brands will often do custom orders!  That's right, you tell them exactly what you are looking for and they will design a nail polish for you.  Imagine what great gifts custom polishes would make, the possibilities are endless.

Where to Start:

If I've talked you into giving indie nail polish a shot, here are a few brands you must try!

Candied Apple Polish - 5-free polishes and tons of crellys!  This shop is particularly fun because the owner/maker of the polishes offers "Mystery Apples" - a surprise color you get to see when it gets to your mailbox.    

Rain City Lacquer - 3-free polishes for the pastel lover in you.  They ship internationally.

ella + mila - 5-free polishes in a wide range of shades if you're not big on glitter. There is a color for everyone here from brights to neutrals and they offer a "mommy and me" line with coordinating mother/daughter polishes.  Great for gifting.

CDB Lacquer - This is one of those shops that will do custom colors.  They offer polishes in three different sized bottles so you can choose just to sample, or go all out with a full size product. Some formulas are 3-free, others are 5-free.

drip drop nail paint - Often found teaming up with Candied Apple Polish for their popular duo collections, these 3-free polishes ship to the U.S. and Canada.  Drip drop also offers "prototype grab bags" where you can try a mystery assortment of one-of-a-kind polishes.

Review: Pleasant Earth Soap Company

Obviously, I am a huge fan of cosmetics.  Beauty products and I have shared a love affair for many years and I love introducing people to cruelty-free brands they can add to their collections.  I find it particularly enjoyable when the products happen to be made in my own backyard.  In doing my part to support local businesses, I often peruse the farmer's market and on a recent trip, I stumbled upon a wonderful little brand called Pleasant Earth Soap Company. 

Made right here in Central Florida, Pleasant Earth Soap Company offers various bar soaps, masks and facial treatments - even a gentle shampoo bar for your furry friends.  Some of the particularly noteworthy products include their bug repellant, an all natural blend of essential oils without all of the chemicals found in store bought repellants, and their fragrance-free Raw Organic Shea Butter.  I also found their coconut milk soaps in various fragrances (and fragrance-free options) to be moisturizing and soothing to sensitive skin.

I'm a sucker for facial treatments and masks, so I simply could not pass up the Dead Sea Mud Mask (sorry, it doesn't appear to be on their website at this time but you could likely contact the sellers to purchase it.)  It's thick, creamy, and free of any fragrances.  In about 10 minutes, it dries to a matte gray finish and rinses easily away. 

The Pros:

This brand is skin-loving and targeted to sensitive skin.  Most of the products offered either help with skin issues, such as eczema and psoriasis, or are free or fragrances and dyes that could irritate skin.  The Dead Sea Mask relaxes facial muscles instantly; I noticed an immediate softening of fine lines.  A bonus?  The mud naturally has some grit to it so by adding water to your palms and massaging skin while washing the mask off, you get a gentle exfoliation treatment to boot!  All of the bar soaps offered are under $5 and are 4 - 5 ounce cuts - you can afford to try different items without going broke.  Last but not least, PES Company uses earth friendly packaging options.

The Cons:

The Pleasant Earth Soap Company's website is a bit sparse where available inventory is concerned.  You may look into contacting the seller directly to find out what other products are available (for example, the dog shampoo bar I purchased at the farmer's market shop). 

If you're looking for a local, small business that supports local farmers, you will love Pleasant Earth Soap Company's soothing, mild bath offerings.

Review: Concrete Minerals

Lately I have been falling in love with loose eye shadow.  Although I find it more difficult to work with, the range of colors and formulas seems endless: a makeup lover's dream!  It allows for truly creative looks.  Couple all of that with skin-loving ingredients and you've got Concrete Minerals.  Founded in 2009, Concrete Minerals boasts a generous line of 56+ eye shadows, both matte and shimmer, and 14 lip tints.  CM is also 100% vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free, fragrance-free, paraben-free, and made with pure pigments and ingredients without fillers.  

 

The above photo was shot without a flash but under artificial (indoor) lighting.  The swatches were done on dry skin without any primer or moisturizer.  The photo has not been retouched or edited/filtered in an attempt to capture the true colors.  Colors from top to bottom:  Deviant, Storm, Sweet Catrina, Brat, Blood and Guts, Black Metal

The top two colors (Deviant and Storm) were free samples included with my order of the other four, full-size shades.  Each pot contains approximately 1.5 grams of product.  Deviant and Storm are wonderfully wearable gray tones; Deviant has a shimmer while Storm is a lighter gray matte.  Sweet Catrina, the most flattering shade, is a gorgeous pink champagne color with hints of silver shimmer.  It is wonderful for blending or highlighting.  Brat is a must have for girls who love all things pink and girly: the perfect shade of shimmering magenta!  Blood and Guts is a curious shade of rusty brown with a very faint green shift/shimmer, definitely a conversation starter.  Finally, Black Metal is most accurately named.  It's a deep, dark black with a silver/gun metal shimmer that is ideal as a liner or for a sultry smoky eye. 

The above photo was taken in artificial (indoor) light, but hasn't been edited/filtered.  I used Brat, blending well, which proves that even a vibrant shade can be totally wearable for day or night.  I smudged Deviant along my lashes as a liner.

The above photo was taken in artificial (indoor) light, but hasn't been edited/filtered.  For a base shadow along the lid I used Sweet Catrina.  I used Storm for the crease and then topped it with Blood and Guts across the brow bone.  By dipping an eye liner brush in water or primer, Black Metal makes a gorgeous liner!

The Pros:

First off, these shadows are a steal for the price, just $7 per full-size pot.  Considering there is no talc or fillers, you're getting true, honest-to-goodness mineral shadows that even sensitive skinned beauties can use.  There are also various promos and coupon codes ongoing that make for an even better value.  If you want to discover a "just right" amount of shimmer, Concrete Minerals is it.  Even the brightest colors are completely flattering and shine in a "grown-up" way.  These shadows are versatile: use them dry as usual, or wet as a liner or for a more vivid look.  Lastly, the packaging is fun!  Their collectible tins will surely appeal to the consumer that craves cute and sexy on the outside.

The Cons:

To be fair, I always try to look at the ups and downs of products; however, it's difficult to complain about such a quality line.  As with any loose shadow, it can be difficult if you're used to pressed eye shadow - there's fall out during application and storage can be an issue.  With a little practice and a big plastic bin to store it all in, you'll easily avoid those minor concerns.

Overall, Concrete Minerals offers a fun and flattering line of products that are perfect for us health conscious consumers that want the total package.

Review: The Chequered Lily Apothecary

Handmade cosmetics are a wonderful way to support small business, avoid animal testing and find vegan friendly items.  Finding the cream of the crop can be tricky, but when you stumble upon a hidden gem, you know the search is worthwhile.  The Chequered Lily Apothecary, opened in 2011, offers various cosmetics, though I was focused on their 150+ eye shadow shades in various finishes and textures.  The pastry chef turned cosmetics creator touts cleanliness and ServSafe practices and labels everything to ensure you know what you're getting.

Of the countless shadows, I chose four; I was pleasantly surprised to find four complimentary samples in the pretty Alice in Wonderland-esque packaging.

The above swatches are the sample colors I received.  The picture was taken in natural light without a flash.  I do not Photoshop or filter any of the photos so as to properly represent the colors.  Additionally, these are swatched on bare skin - no primer or lotion.  The colors, from top to bottom:  #12 Snow, Glass, Apples, #64 Hyacinth, #10 Milky Way, #32 Seafoam.  #12 is perfect for a highlighter shade and brightens brow bones or the inner corner of the eyes.  There's a subtle shift in color from silvery white to pale blue and even green.  #64 is a princess perfect pastel purple.  #10 appears deep purple or gray depending on the lighting.  #32 is a surprisingly wearable pastel mint green to gold shift.

The colors I purchased from left to right: #128 Grimoire, #137 Midnight Show, #117 Moving On, #07 Caterpillar.  Each container holds 1 gram of product.  #128 is my favorite of the bunch.  Depending on how it is applied, tapped versus brushed or smudged, it can appear purple, magenta, brown or bronze.  It is gorgeous for a unique, smoky eye look.  #137 is a vivid dark purple, navy blue shift.  #117 cannot be photographed properly; this amazing, peachy gold color is so sparkly and is beautiful as a highlighter on cheekbones.  #07 is a pale gold, yellow, green that makes a fun base shade for any pastel look.

The Pros:

I am always pleased when handmade cosmetics are so meticulously made.  Allergy warnings, ingredients, uses - all labeled clearly.  In addition, vegan and non-vegan products are kept separate to avoid contamination.  The shades are all vivid and highly pigmented, offering great color payoff at just $6.50 per pot.  There are so many colors to choose from, you're bound to find something to your liking.

The Cons:

If you're not a fan of loose shadow and prefer pressed, you won't find it at The Chequered Lily.  The packaging doesn't allow for stacking (e.g. interlocking lids or bottoms) so it'll test your storage space.  The darker shades, namely #128 and #137 can cause a bit of staining on the skin, but are easily removed with makeup remover.

Beautiful, well made and affordable: Take a trip through the looking glass and see what The Chequered Lily Apothecary has for you.

Review: My Beauty Addiction Cosmetics

I have a tiny obsession with lipstick, stains, glosses, etc.  I find lip cosmetics a simple way to update your look in a flash.  In my never ending search for fun and fabulous lip colors, I am always pleased when I stumble upon cruelty-free brands that offer various formulas and tons of color options.  I was delighted to find 5-year-old handmade brand MBA Cosmetics.  With over 600 items to choose from including eye shadow, body products and, of course, lipsticks galore, I was sold.  Lip sticks and glazes range from $4.75 to $7.50 - how affordable!  Not to mention bundle specials (5 for $20 on Sugar Babies? Yes, please!).

As pictured above, I purchased the Whipped Soap Souffle in "Hello Sugar," Petite Lip Paint in "Burlesque," and Sugar Babies in "Breathless."  The "Passionfruit" loose shadow was a freebie sample.  The souffle is the consistency of room temperature butter, all creamy and smooth.  The first two ingredients, glycerin and almond oil, are incredibly moisturizing and leave skin feeling soft even without a separate moisturizer.  Delicious!  But onto the cosmetics...

The HD lip paints are described as being the most highly pigmented lipsticks of the bunch.  Velvety smooth and hydrating, they offer superb, opaque coverage with a semi-matte finish.  The photo above is "Burlesque" and was taken in natural light, no flash and no filtering or editing has been done.

The Pros:

This little tube is packed with pigment and feels wonderfully smooth on the lips - no dry out!  I got wonderful coverage from just one coat and didn't feel the need for a lip liner.  There are so many colors to choose from; novelty colors like brilliant green and banana yellow, and nudes and pinks galore.  There are also various forms of the lip paint.  You can purchase the same formula in a tube or in a pot for application with a brush.  Depending on what you choose, prices range from under $5 to $7.50.  For the price, this is a must have.

The Cons:

The main issue for this lipstick is staying power.  Because this is a very hydrating formula, you may not get the longest lasting wear without a lip primer.  If cutesy packaging is a must for you, this very functional brand may not initially catch your eye - however, it appears from some of the photos on the seller's site that the packaging may be getting an upgrade to sleeker black tubes.

The aptly named Sugar Babies apply like a gloss but deliver the pigmentation of a lipstick.  They smell like a sugary vanilla cupcake and offer a shiny, non-sticky finish.  The photo above is "Breathless" and was taken in natural light, no flash and no filtering or editing has been done.  Depending on how the light hits it, it's a dark, stormy gray/blue/purple.

The Pros:

They smell sweet enough to eat and come in an amazing selection of colors.  Given the reasonable price tag, I wanted to try a color I'd never consider otherwise.  This jojoba oil based gloss is not sticky, yet delivers lots of shine.  This formula mixes easily with other lip glosses to boot!  At just $4.75 I could easily see myself stocking up on many of the colors available.  The coverage is quite impressive for a gloss, though not quite what I'd consider a liquid lipstick.

The Cons:

Again, don't let the simple packaging fool you - unless simple packaging just isn't doable for your personal collection.  This particular color, "Breathless," does temporarily stain my lips, but can be wiped away easily with makeup remover or plain old cleanser and water. 

If color and value are important to you, look no further than MBA Cosmetics.  I am quite sure I'll be placing another order in the near future. 

Tutorial: Self-Tanning Fixes 101

Summer is here and I don't have to tell you how important a golden glow can be to your look.  It's slimming, it evens out your skin tone and blurs imperfections, and it makes you look healthy.  Chances are you've already tried self tanning at home, but perhaps your results weren't ideal.  With a few quick fixes to common self tanning woes, you'll get the perfect shade of bronze without the hassle.

Step 1:  Choose the Right Formula 

Whether it is spray or foam, cream or gel, there are many choices on the market.  The best tip for choosing the right one for you?  Don't be cheap.  It's understandable, some of us do beauty on a budget, but a good self tanner will last you for months and is generally the easiest to use.  The formulas are built to reduce streakiness and help you avoid looking orange.  My favorite self tanner is Tarte's Brazilliance (pictured at top).  It is a gel/cream hybrid that is tinted to show you where it's going as it's applied.  The application mitt is particularly helpful: one, you avoid orange palms and stained nails and two, it cuts streaky application down considerably.  This formula also has a beachy coconut fragrance; while that self tanning smell isn't completely gone, it's certainly less noticeable.  

Step 2:  Apply at the Right Time

Some of us apply self tanner and attempt to go about our day:  No.  Stop.  Desist.  Throughout the day you're sweating, producing oil, rubbing against your clothing and other people.  Even though it might seem like your tanner is dry, most formulas are working for hours after they are applied.  To avoid finding splotches or uneven spots, apply your self tanner at night right before you turn in for the night.  We all tend to sweat less when we sleep, and pajamas tend to be less binding than other clothing.  It gives your skin the best opportunity to process with little to no movement going on.

Step 3:  Blend Trouble Spots

Before you apply your self tanner, consider applying a tiny dab of regular lotion to your knees and elbows.  Massage into the skin completely, then apply your tanner.  The lotion will prevent the dry skin on your elbows and knees from turning orange or darker than the rest of your skin.  After you wash your hands post-tanner application, use your damp fingertips to massage around your wrists and along the backs of your hands.  Washing your hands may have spread water droplets around the area, which can become splotches once your tan is complete.  Finally, do the same around your ankles, blending with your fingertips down toward your feet.  You don't want ring-around-the-ankle/wrists, right?  Taking an extra minute or two to blend these areas is key.

Step 4:  Make Corrections

Leave your self tanner in tact for however long it takes to process fully (the product packaging will tell you).  Once your tanning time is complete, take a shower.  Don't use a bath puff or abrasive sponge, just your hands or a soft washcloth.  After you've dried off, take a look in the mirror.  If you have any streaks or splotches, chances are they can be repaired.  For very minor streaks or discolorations, exfoliate the darker area with a loofah or other abrasive sponge.  This should even you out.  For more noticeable splotches, dip a cotton ball in nail polish remover and rub until you notice the color starting to become more even.  As a last resort if you've missed a spot, add a tiny bit of tanner to the bare area and blend VERY well.  

Step 5:  Troubleshooting

Are you noticing your skin looks orange?  Splurge on a cosmetic grade formula (read: probably not for sale at your local drug store/supermarket).  You may also be applying too much or too often.  Let's face it, self tanners can only go so far to give you a bit of color.  Like celebrities that have overdone it, you, too, can over apply at home.  Most self tanners should be applied no more than twice a week to maintain color.  Finding clogged pores or pimples cropping up?  Exfoliate between applications.  Self tanner can settle into your pores and cause bumps.  Scrub trouble spots with a sugar scrub: my favorite is the ridiculously accessible and wonderfully priced Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrubs.  This particular scrub moisturizes without depositing heavy oils on your skin, so you can apply your self tanner directly after use.  Practice makes perfect, so keep at it and soon you'll be a bronzed goddess without ever leaving your bathroom.

Review: Melt Cosmetics

This past spring season I became absolutely infatuated with matte lips.  From lip creams and stains, to opaque lipstick; any color, as long as it was perfectly UN-shiny.  I did plenty of searching, plenty of research, and of the many options out there, I was intrigued by melt cosmetics.  "Ultra-matte.  Bold.  Radioactive."  It sounded like the perfect motto for a cosmetics brand.  As if that weren't enough, all of their lipsticks are vegan, cruelty-free, gluten free and paraben free.  Melt offers twelve unique shades from pinks that would make Barbie envious, to a curious shade of slate gray - all matte, all gorgeous.

I purchased two of the company's twelve shades to try when they were offering a free-shipping promo: Summer! - a soft, creamsicle orange, and By Starlight - a deep, dark true purple. 

Above:  Summer! The photo is not retouched or filtered, and it was taken in natural light - no flash.  I did not use any primer or lip liner.

Above:  By Starlight. The photo is not retouched or filtered, and it was taken in natural light - no flash.  I did not use any primer or lip liner.

The Pros:

If you are looking for creamy, super opaque lipstick, you want Melt.  The shades cover completely and offer rich, deep pigments.  Melt does not offer lip liners at this time, but I didn't find myself needing a liner.  I had no bleeding or feathering around my lips - this stuff REALLY stayed in place, particularly By Starlight.  Both lipsticks applied beautifully right out of the tube so reapplication (although rarely necessary) was a cinch.  Some smaller retailers don't offer refunds, but Melt has a fine policy on returns.  I didn't need to use it, but it is nice to know it's available.

The Cons:

Melt only offers lipsticks, twelve shades in total.  If you are a fan of lip gloss, or are seeking a different formula, you won't find it.  They do one thing, but they do it well.  Depending on your budget, $19 per lipstick can be pricey; I'd love to see them offer more promotions and sales in order to attract new buyers (or those wanting to stock up, like me...).  Finally, popular shades sell out... FAST.  The only way to determine when colors will be restocked is to sign up for Melt's mailing list and wait. 

Application Tips:

As with all matte lipsticks, you don't have the benefit of shimmery pigments and an oily, glossy texture to help even things out.  Before you apply, exfoliate your lips.  I use a warm, damp washcloth and rub in a circular motion until smooth.  You may also want to look into a good primer if you find flakiness or dryness a problem.  Lastly, these shades allow for excellent blending so you can create custom colors.  Too fun!

FYI: 5 Common Animal By-Products You Didn't Know Were There

So, you're doing your part and checking your companies out to be sure you're buying cruelty-free products.  Hooray!  However, as you may have read (see my earlier post on cosmetics labeling issues) "cruelty-free" is not as all-inclusive as it seems.  Another concern plagues the cruelty-free beauty lover: hidden animal by-products.  Although listed in the ingredients, most of us don't know exactly what we're looking at.  We can't pronounce it, we've never heard of it, we don't know where it comes from - it seems quite daunting, then, to weed out what we don't want to put on our shopping lists.

This list is far from exhaustive, but should help get you familiar with common ingredients you may be staring down the next time you're reading your labels.  Oh, and speaking of labels, "naturally sourced" is another term you should become familiar with.  As with many other phrases that lack any legally enforced definition, be advised that "naturally sourced" ingredients does not mean plant derived or plant based. 

Carmine

What it is:  In a nut-shell, ground up insect bodies.  Carmine creates a red coloring and is used as a dye.  To create carmine, insect bodies are ground up and boiled to extract the carminic acid and various further chemical processes create color variations.

How to spot it:  Look for ingredients that read "crimson lake," "cochineal," or "natural red 4."

How to avoid it:  Back in 2006, the FDA considered requiring products that contained carmine to call it just that: carmine.  They were also considering requiring manufacturers to list that the product was insect-based.  Needless to say, that did not go over well and the FDA ultimately bailed on the potential requirement.  However, if you see "cochineal extract" or "carmine" listed, consider this code for insect-based.

Shellac

What it is:  More bugs!  It is actually an excretion of the female laccifer lacer bug and comes in various colors.  It is used in cosmetics and hair products to provide shine, such as in hair spray or nail polish.  If you're concerned about the environmental impact, The Vegetarian Resource Group estimates that 300,000 lac bugs are killed in the production of just 2.2 pounds worth of lac resin. 

How to spot it:  Look for additive number "E904," "resinous glaze," and "confectioner's glaze" (in food).

How to avoid it:  The ingredient "Zein" is a corn based alternative to shellac.  If you find shiny products like lipsticks, glosses, etc., check to see if the product is vegan (no animal by-product use) or see if the shine is derived from another source, such as "Zein."

Lanolin

What it is:  The word "lanolin" is actually from the Latin word "lāna" which means "wool" - "oleum" means "oily birth."  Put that all together and you get an oily substance secreted by the oil glands of sheep.  Although sheep are not usually killed to obtain the product, improper shearing of sheep has been the cause of death, disfigurement, pain and trauma in these animals.

How to spot it:  Lanolin is often listed as is: lanolin or lanolin oil.  However, look for "lanosterols," "triterpene," "lanogene," or "laneth."

How to avoid it:  Any time you see "sterols" listed, be wary of lanolin.  If the ingredients state "plant sterols" it is a good indication that the oily substance is coming from plants.  Since lanolin is generally used as an emollient, look for plant based oils like coconut oil and olive oil instead.

Guanine

What it is:  Used to create a shimmery effect, guanine is extracted from fish scales and is most commonly found in nail polish.  It's also used in eye shadows and skin care creams and serums. 

How to spot it:  Guanine, like lanolin, is labeled as is.  You may also see "hypoxanthine" or "2-aminohypoxanthine."

How to avoid it:  "Mica" is a common mineral used to create that glittery effect we all know and love.  "Bismuth" and "sericite" are other alternatives to look for when you see something shiny.  If you have a sensitivity to mica, seek out "titanium dioxide" or "zinc oxide" which are common substitutes.  Mica treated with "methicone" is another great way to avoid mica sensitivity AND guanine - win, win.

Apitoxin

What it is:  Ever been stung by a bee?  Then you have experienced the irritation and inflammation associated with apitoxin, or bee venom.  It is believed that apitoxin increases blood flow and creates a plumping effect, so it is used in various skin care products and lip balms/glosses designed to plump lips/skin.  The biggest concern for cruelty-free beauty lovers is that, once a bee stings, it dies.  Recent findings suggest that bees are already in serious trouble as their numbers decline from pesticide usage and declining habitats. 

How to spot it:  If it is apitoxin you're looking to avoid, watch out for "melittin," "apamin," and "adolapin."

How to avoid it:  Fortunately (or perhaps unfortunately, depending on how you look at it) the makers of "bee venom" cosmetics and products are proudly touting the ingredient.  Alternatives are easy to find, mostly herbs and spices that produce that tingly heat sensation: peppermint, cinnamon and menthol are all readily available.

Review: Eslor Soothing Refiner & Cleanser

When it comes to facial cleansers, I might as well be Goldilocks: I can never find the cleanser that is "just right."  I consider my skin combination dry, where my cheeks can stay dry and even flaky, yet I can end up with an oil slick across my forehead.  For me, the perfect cleanser has to remove makeup, suck up the oil so I FEEL the clean, but prevent the tightness and dryness you can often get when you rinse.  Some cleansers left my skin feeling greasy, others left my skin dry and visibly tight. 

Once upon a time, there was Eslor skin care.  Created by a pharmacologist for his wife who, like me, was seeking a natural skin care line, Eslor offers aloe based products for various skin needs.  If you've checked the labels on your cleanser, you'll probably find a plethora of ingredients.  However, Eslor is being praised for what is NOT in it.  Instead of harsh cleansers like sodium lauryl sulfate, there is almond meal, earth kaolin and seaweed extract which help suck up dirt while leaving skin moisturized.  Eslor's Soothing Refiner and Cleanser draws out impurities while cleaning surface dirt away.  Aloe soothes red, irritated skin while glycerin and hops are natural moisturizers.  With only a handful of ingredients, this cleanser proves less is more.

The Pros:

Finally! I've discovered the perfect balance; my face feels clean yet very soft.  Even without immediately applying a moisturizer, this low foaming gel is a combination cleanser and toner in one step.  I've noticed my skin is smoother after about a week of use, too. There's no fragrance or dyes, so this could be an excellent option for sensitive skin.  In addition, there are no harsh cleansers, no parabens, no sodium lauryl sulfate and no sodium lauryl ethel sulfate (both rough cleansing agents.)  This is the first cleanser I have found that has actually improved my skin without any additional product use!

The Cons:

At $32 for a 2 ounce bottle, it isn't a budget-friendly option for some.  It cleans well, but may not offer enough oil control throughout the day for individuals with particularly oily skin.  Finally, because this cleanser is designed to draw out dirt and oil deep within your pores, you may notice a pimple or two in your first week or so of use.  (This is common with face masks and products with kaolin clay, which is a natural detoxifying agent that may bring impurities to the surface.)

This truly is a high quality cleanser and I can only imagine how effective it would be combined with Eslor's other skin care products.  You can receive free samples with purchase on the Eslor website and as a bonus, there are men's skin care products as well.  It's worth a look.

Review: Nails Inc.

For much of my young adulthood, nail polish was all the same.  We weren't readily aware of dangerous chemicals and the only difference from one brand to the next was the range of colors produced.  Enter today's world of nail polish: varying formulas, fragrances, the introduction of UV gel cured polish - lots of changes.  Enter Nails Inc.  The company launched in England back in 1999, but is only now becoming a go-to brand in the U.S.  Nails Inc. offers an extremely diverse line of polishes from leather to latex, feather to fiber optics - there is a finish for everyone and then some.

The Nails Inc. Spring Summer Polish Collection caught my eye immediately due to the extremely wearable yet fashion forward shades.  With 3 creme shades and 3 neon shades, there is a little something for everyone.  I have been searching for truly opaque, nude and powder-puff soft pastels and, lucky me, I found them.  This kit of adorable minis - with full size brush so painting is not difficult - was a reasonable $25.  Full size bottles go for about $11 each.  

Colors (left to right): colville mews, little george street, william mews, princess gate, bruton lane (Not pictured, but above at bottom right): sloane street

The Pros:

Even the palest shades cover completely with two coats.  None of the polishes contain any mica or glittery shine of any kind.  These are not matte finish, but would likely look amazing if given a matte top coat.  The shade I am wearing (pictured at top) is two coats of colville mews and one coat of clear top coat.  I have acrylic nails, so most all polishes last a ridiculously long time.  However, applied to my toe nails, Nails Inc. polish is chip resistant between pedicures.

 

The Cons:

It can be tricky to get milky shades to apply evenly, particularly on natural nails.  There can be an issue with streaking.  However, I found that all of those issues can be controlled by applying a thicker second coat than you might usually.  Also, be sure to give the polish a good thirty seconds or more before applying your top coat. 

This is a wonderful kit to buy if you're looking to try something new.  The colors are chic and fun - I get tons of compliments on the nude polish (colville mews) alone.  There is no shortage of shades and styles to choose from; be sure to visit the Nails Inc. site and gawk in awe.