Ask Temptalia Session #026
Got a question? Now’s the time to ask it!
I’m taking your questions and answering them today. You can feel free to ask any question you’d like, both beauty-related or unrelated! Some tips on asking me questions so that you can get the best answer AND quickly…
- For color/makeup recommendations, please let me know your skin tone, if you have a brand preference, colors you love (whatever is applicable). I don’t want to recommend something that doesn’t work for your skin coloring or recommend a brand that’s more than you want to spend!
- If you’ve tried a lot of products and are still looking for the one that works, if you could tell me products or techniques you have tried, that helps me suss out what might work! Again, I’d hate to just recommend you a product/technique you’ve tried!
- Please, please be patient. Each session generates between 400-600 questions. I will answer all that are received within the session’s time limit, but it may take me a few hours to get back to you, so I only ask that you be patient with me 🙂
- You can also check out last session’s summary/wrap-up, as well as our FAQ.
It is always a pleasure to answer your questions, and I hate answering your question with a follow-up question about your coloring or what brand you’d like the dupe in or what-have-you, so hopefully this will allow me to give you better answers and more efficiently, to boot! 🙂
Feel free to answer other readers’ questions, too! The more the merrier! Plus, your feedback really helps to round out any answer I give. It’s like a more complete worldview!
THE SESSION IS NOW CLOSED. THANK YOU FOR PARTICIPATING.
Edited @ 9:13pm (PST): The session is CLOSED. I will answer all remaining questions I received to this point that have not been answered.
OOOH! I just convinced The Tech Guy (aka Shaun, my boyfriend) and @labrasnore (aka Mellan) to answer questions.
If you want to ask either one a question, ask away 🙂 I don’t guarantee either of them will ever do it again, LOL! Especially that Mellan. He’s lazy.
Hi Christine,
For reference, I’m between NW15-20.
Do you know of a Tinted Moisturizer that will not leave me looking “dewy”, especially on my oily forehead? Is it possible that there’s one out there that dries down matte?
I have pretty good skin, with just a hormonal bump every so often. I’ve used the same skincare stuff for a few years, without any issues. However, all of the sudden, my skin is breaking out pretty badly. There were a couple of large, hormonal pimples, but also, there were run of the mill zits. Most of it seems to be clearing up now, but I’ve got some dark spots left behind. How can I get rid of those quickly? Also, one area that had a big pimple (that receded instead of popped) left behind a really dry patch that won’t clear up. I’m scared to exfoliate it, because it was quite irritated and peeling. Any suggestions?
What do you consider to be the best undereye concealer for under $30? Is a colour corrector necessary under the eye?
Sorry my questions are long-winded! Thank you for your website, and all that you do for your fellow makeup addicts! I always look for swatches on here before I buy anything!
Hi JayJay,
Korres’ Tinted Moisturizer has a near matte finish. If you’re *really* patient, then you could take a matte liquid foundation and mix it with your moisturizer (assuming it dries down well), which should also get you that.
Dark spots are likely hyper pigmentation marks, which should fade with time. I’ve used Kiehl’s treatment with some luck, but I usually just use Mederma (for scars) and I think that works, lol! As far as the irritated and peeling skin, just keep it clean, avoid makeup (if and when you can — I understand if you have to use it, totally been there). Once it calms down a bit, you could try exfoliating with just a wet wash cloth, which should be gentle enough and not increase the irritation.
I like theBalm’s Time Balm, MAC’s Select Cover, and MUFE’s Lift Concealer.
Thank you so much! I will be checking out your recommendations at Sephora later this week.
I love it when you do these sessions. I try to read all of the Q&A, to see what other tips I can pick up. 🙂
What’s the best medium or full coverage foundation for Combination Skin? I’m an NC 20. I still haven’t found my Holy Grail foundation.
Have you tried Make Up For Ever Mat+ Velvet or Estee Lauder’s Double Wear?
I wouldn’t recommend Estee Lauders double wear on someone with yellow undertones. Estee Lauder (well in Europe) only has foundations with red undertones which doesn’t match well. I’ve had Estee Lauder and i switched on Bobbi Brown.
(This comment isn’t meant to be bitchy or something. I don’t know how to say it much nicer because my English isn’t very well. I apologize if it sounds bitchy
I have yellow undertones, but I’ve had good luck with EL myself 🙂 BB does run on the yellow side, but EL’s Double Wear is stuff that doesn’t budge – I haven’t found anything quite like it in BB.
Have you tried Revlon’s Colorstay foundation? Some people swear by it too. Pretty good coverage and very, very longlasting (you need to be quick when applying or you won’t be able to fix it). And wallet-friendly too!
Just chiming into discussions.. lol.
For a medium coverage powder foundation, Benefit Hello Flawless is great. For a medium to full coverage liquid foundation, I find Lancome Teinte Idole perfect. It doesn’t leave me cakey at all. =)
Do you watch Pretty Little Liars? Hannah had a really pretty sheer coral/pink looking lipstick on and I can’t find anything like it. If not, can you reccomend a color like that and also some good sheer lipsticks? I like glossy looking ones. Thanks!
I watched the first episode, but it’s a little too much of a stretch for me, LOL. Like they’re all very pretty and stylish and don’t look a thing like 15/16 year olds. I think it only shows I am showing my age now 🙁
Maybe one of these:
http://www.temptalia.com/the-spring-season-smashbox-splendid-lipstick
http://www.temptalia.com/the-spring-season-korres-13-natural-pink-lipstick
http://www.temptalia.com/the-spring-season-shiseido-pk-327-perfect-rouge-sheer-lip-color
What are the best MAC lipstick colors for an NC42? 🙂 Diva, Brick-o-la and Cosmo look stunning on me, but I haven’t gotten around to trying others.
High Tea, Kinda Sexy, Media, New York Apple, Siss
Hi Christine,
I am a huge fan of your blog and I was wondering when you graduate from your graduate studies and start working, do you still think you’ll continue temptalia? Thanks again for all the work you and your bf put into this blog, I’ve been spending lots of time using your reviews for Mac and Makeup forever as a reference for buying items. Great work!
Hi Syl,
I definitely plan to! 🙂 Still a ways away!
Thank you so much!
Hi Christine, what’s the best cream eyeshadow you’ve come across (in terms of staying power, no creasing, color selection)? I’d be using it mainly for quick makeup in the mornings.
Thanks!
I love Benefit’s Creaseless Cream Eyeshadows overall, and they’re particularly good for allover washes 🙂
Hi Christine,
i love reading your blog and checking out your reviews. i’ve been following your blog for more than 6 months now. It seems as if you have something to write about all the time 🙂 I don’t think i’ve ever seen you take a break and go on vacation because there is something posted everyday. do you plan/ever wish to go on vacation?? 🙂 i know we would miss your posts even if you go away for one day 🙂
Pam
Hey Pam,
My idea of a vacation is if you never know that I’m on vacation. Unless I actually say it! So you never know if I’m here or there, but you’ll always have posts to read 🙂 I think the only time there was ever a hiccup in posts on the blog was last year when I got sick a with a really, really nasty flu virus (maybe the Swine flu) – I basically was bedridden and could barely function (never been that sick EVER!). I tried to post a bit, but it was difficult to do anything but lay down.
Thanks for your response 🙂 oh and maybe two more questions.
1) do you feel that you get recognized a lot more frequently? i think you tweeted that you got recognized 3 times at the mall…
2) i know you didn’t go to IMATS. I know a lot of the beauty youtube gurus did and i’ve seen clips where they’ve taken pics with their “fans/beauty followers.” If you did go, i know you would get recognized:) would you be okay if they took pics with you or are you more of a private person? hope this wasn’t too personal to ask….
Thanks,
Pam
Hi Pam,
1.) It’s more frequent, but it’s not very frequent. The last time was just an anomaly! It’s NEVER like that, lol.
2.) I went the year before, and I’m always happy to meet and chat with fans/followers or however you want to self-identify, LOL! It feels really weird to say I have fans or followers. Like a little egotistical, I suppose. I am a private person, but not THAT private. I’m an open-book in general, but I’m not a big crowd/party person, I suppose – does that make sense?
But nope, if anyone ever sees me, please say hi! It feels so weird when you know me but I don’t know you! I won’t bite. 🙂 We can chat, shake hands, hug, take pictures – whatever!
Hi! My name is Rachael. I am usually a medium skin tone, for bareminerals or an olive tone.
Do you know any powder foundations that DO NOT HAVE TALC in them. Unfortunately, I do have a small amount of acne, and talc aggravates acne. And the only powder I have found that doesn’t have talc is bareminerals and it limits me.
Also a product I have tried, mainly for acne is the IQQU Acne Serum. My review would be its about a 3/5. On the positive side: it doesn’t smell bad or like alcohol, its a cool orange color, it doesn’t help not get acne, its doesn’t make my skin red, it doesn’t irritate my skin, and its very silky. On the negative side: its $33, it barely lasted me not even a month, it didn’t actually get rid of my acne, it just made it smaller sized.
I am also looking for a nice under eye concelear, hopefully not too expensive but does work well. Along with a nice coral blush ( No MAC, though its has talc in it. too bad right?)
Thanks SO Much Temptalia, your amazing!!!!
Hi Rachael,
I know that Physicians Formula makes a lot of talc-free products, as do most mineral makeup brands (Everyday Minerals, Alima, etc.). Smashbox Hydro Perfecting Powder, Philosophy’s The Supernatural Aibrushed, and Hourglass’s Oxygen Mineral Foundation are all touted as talc-free.
We often expect miracles out of our skincare products, and those expectations are probably not realistic. If you find the IQQU Serum only so-so and expensive, you might look at the ingredient list and see if you find comparable products at a lower price point that have a similar ingredient list. I’ve had good luck with Mario Badescu’s Drying Lotion & Drying Cream, which are both under $20 I believe. They don’t always instantly erase, but they seem to help quite a bit.
For undereye concealers, I like: theBalm’s Time Balm, Make Up For Ever Lift Concealer, MAC Select Cover, and Eve Pearl Salmon Concealer.
Philosophy makes a blush in Healthy/Happy which looks like it has a coral and it is talc-free.
Thank You!! 🙂
i use clean & clear’s advantage spot treatment for my acne [comes in a tiny purpley silver squeezy tube] and its great and affordable too, so give that a go :] xo
i use clean & clear persa-gel 5 (benzoyl peroxide 5%) along with derma-e tea tree & vitamin E cream for my occasional zits. i don’t have severe acne but those two have helped dry them up and minimize picking/scarring… i get those pesky little ones around my chin/jaw sometimes (hormones… sigh.)
ps – both are really cheap and easily obtainable at the drugstore.
hi i just wanted to add my input just so you know the physicians formula powder foundation spf50 has talc but bare esscentuals or bare minerals doesn’t and if you buy in the starter kits you save a ton of money.
What do you think of MUFE’s face and body foundation? have you tried it? i got a small sample, it went quite shiny on me but then i was it really warm weather on holidays and it was under spf which i’m not used to wearing. now my sample is gone and i can’t remember what its like. any other recs for a foundation you can use on your body too?
It’s a rather dewy foundation, and it’s a little less coverage than I’d like, so I don’t have it in full size myself.
MAC Face & Body also works — very comparable. It felt a little less dewy than MUFE’s, though.
I just got some Face and Body samples. You’d still need a powder to set it, just to lower shine…and it stunk! But maybe that was just my sample. I’ve never had any product have a smell that really turned me off, and that one did.
I thought I was the only one! The scent was so strong/bad that I almost didn’t put it on. Once on, I still didn’t like it. LOL Even if it worked for me, I doubt I could get past the scent.
Hi, Christine! I’m a really really big fun of your blog! My question is – What skin products should I choose for my every day routine – I’m now feeling somekind of age signs happening 🙁 I need some productes for face and eyes area, which will realy refresh my skin tone and moisturise very good. I’m 30 now and I’ve tried a lot of products from Chanel, Dior, Givenchy, Lancome, Clarins, but they were not anti-age lines. I’m realy need an advise what products ore line to choose, because there are so many on the market! I have a normal to combination skin and dry skin under my eyes, slitely dark-sirkles, sometimes have puffiness, and some crow feets under my eyes.
Hi Anna,
Skincare is very, very personal and individual, so sometimes what works for me, doesn’t for you, and vice versa! The best is prevention, so that means wearing at least SPF 15 everyday, and more like SPF 30 when you’re out and about in the sun (plus reapplication if you’re out for longer periods of time or in water). Wear sunglasses when you’re outside, too – will keep you from squinting (causing unnecessary fine lines).
As far as skincare goes, a good moisturizer and cleanser go a long way, regardless of whether they’re anti-aging or not. Prescription-wise, Retin-A still seems to be one of the reigning champs. For over-the-counter products, it’s such a huge playground. Olay Regenerist is a great budget-friendly line. Chanel’s Lift and Sublimage line seem to do well for the ultra high end range.
Thank you so much, Christine! And I meant “fan” not “fun” of course! 🙂 Sorry, just noticed..
No worries 😀
I would give Kiehl’s a try. It’s not the most affordable brand but it’s a very personal one. Go into a store and they will give you lots of advice and samples of… pretty much anything. Since skincare is so personal, Kiehl’s *should* take the product back if you respond to it badly. I am currently using their Ultra Light Daily UV Defense SPF 50 PA+++ for face (use this ONLY if you’re in Europe/Asia… an alternate product is sold in the US and it’s not the same by all means!!) and their Midnight Recovery Concentrate, which is one of their #1 products in the US (and soon in Europe). It’s a serum you apply at night and it helps your skin contain moisture (like omg, my skin’s so soft… it looks so much more vibrant and even). But anyway, I really like Kiehl’s for older skin. Good luck!
Damn… I should apply for a job there. What a sales pitch! (Didn’t intend to though.)
im looking for a new pink/nude lipstick as well as one more on the pink side. i wear chanel matt lumiere in #20 for winter and #30 for summer. i have myth/fleshpot/creme d nude and find them a little too nude. as for the pinks, i have viva glam gaga, snob, saint germain, and pink nouveau, all of which dont fit the bill. i would like to know of any mac colors that i can try, or any other brands with similar prices. Thanks in advance!
Hi Erica,
Have you tried MAC Angel, Shy Girl, or Creme Cup? Shy Girl is a pinky nude, while Angel and Creme Cup are pinker, but they’re pink like the ones you listed.
To Erica, I have the color Creme Cup, its gorgeous! I def. recommend it!
Hi Erica,
If you’d like to try a less expensive option, I recommend Revlon Pink Pout. It is a gorgeous nudey pink color!
Hi Christine! It’s my first question ever 🙂 I’ve pretty much figured out makeup, but I’m looking for a nice citrussy (lemon/lime/orange) or a fresh fruity (apple/peach/pear) summer scent, any suggestions? Scents I’ve liked in the past include Elizabeth Arden Mediterranean Breeze, DKNY Be Delicious, YSL Young Sexy Lovely and Burberry Brit and the Escada summer scents are too sweet for me.
Hi Annika,
Maybe something like DKNY Be Delicious Fresh Blossom, D&G Light Blue, or Nina Ricci Nina!
The Orange Saphire scent from Bath and Body Works is yummy too. It’s fruity but has a hint of musk to make it less froo-froo girly.
cartier l’eau de cartier – citrusy, zesty, and NOT sweet.
annick goutal petite cherie – a yummy, summery pear-and-fresh-grass scent.
clean eau de parfum – very citrusy and soapy.
chloe eau de parfum – soapy, rosy and slightly fruity with a powdery edge… delectable!
l’occitane ruban d’orange – the most mouthwatering orange scent ever.
l’artisan ete en doucer – linden, white tea, citrus. summery, and sunny.
annick goutal eau du sud – citrusy, with a tinge of herbaceousness. NOT sweet. very crisp and fresh, like a white starched linen shirt.
frederic malle editions de pafums cologne bigarade – bitter orange cologne at its best. fresh, summery.
christian miss dior cherie/chanel chance eau fraiche – not my personal favorite (too common), but it is a citrusy-summery blend of fruit and hesperidic notes. if you buy one, you won’t need the other.
d&g light blue – the motherlode of all citus-florals… this is the perfume that started the female obsession with citrus (which was previously a masculine note).
hermes eau d’orange verte – bitter orange freshness.
thierry mugler mugler cologne – fresh, green, unusual, it’s like liquid sunlight.
i can name a lot more… but these are the ones off the top of my head!
How did you get into blogging? I recently started and wanted to know how it came about for you. Also, what is one MAC eye brush that you feel is a must-have?
I was looking for a way to archive all of the makeup looks I was doing at a time, and it really just snowballed from there 🙂
239!
Hi Christine!
Thanks for taking the time out to answer all these questions :] it’s pretty amazing of you!
I have quite a few, so I guess I’ll get right down to it…also, I should prob say that I am NC 20-25 [just picked up mac studio fix fluid NC 25, since that’s what I’ve been matched as bc it’s the summer lol!], and my skin is pretty oily. To the point where I carry blotters around with me. Errrgh. I wash my face, exfoliate [I have the neutrogena wave duo and use that with the exfoliating pads, bc I feel like everything else I’ve used tears my skin up!], use moisturizer, and primer and everything to keep it as clean and oil free as possible. Did I mention I have acne? Not overly terrible acne, but, I get those pressure ones every once in a while, little whitheads that I pick that become bigger [grrrpicking.] and I have blackheads which make my pores look massive..and I guess that hyperpigmentation*sp from picking. 🙁 I’m also almost 23 so I know it’s not a teenage hormonal thing. So yeah, it’s been frustrating. I was wondering what the best way to try to take care of my skin would possibly be, since I’ve heard so many different things…I’m getting close to the end of my rope with all of this, I’m even about to try proactive for the second time lol. So seriously, anything suggested would be absolutely wonderful. I read your blog every day and I LOVE IT, it really makes my day!!! [and my wallet lighter LOL]
Also, I wanted to know what is really worth picking up from In the Groove. I was looking at those mineral skinfinishes, and I only wanted to get one since they’re almost $30 haha. So what would you recommend? I’m also a fairly new mac-convert, so the only things I really have are from limited edition collections starting with Liberty of London. Sorry my post is so ridiculously long!!…But thank you SO much!!!
Hey Cass,
Before you try Proactive, I’d recommend seeing a dermatologist! I’ll give you some tips for combating acne, too, but you may want to think about seeing a professional and getting their advice/opinion before you go on a money-spending spree for anti-acne products! As far as treating active breakouts, I’ve had good luck with Mario Badescu’s spot treatments like Drying Lotion & Drying Cream. I also like Kate Somerville’s Clearing Mask once or twice a week. Big things to watch out for are not touching your face, only touch your face with clean hands, use an alcohol-free toner, and change your pillow cases frequently.
When it comes to popping pimples, Renee Rouleau taught me best: http://www.reneerouleau.com/HealBreakouts.aspx
But things like stress, diet, your monthly period, etc. can all affect your skin and cause breakouts that seem unrelated to products.
I think you’d probably like Stereo Rose the most, which is sold out on the MAC website now, and after that, I’d recommend Petticoat!
I’ll def check those products out. I also went to a dermatologist last summer, and he barely looked at my face, and just prescribed me a bunch of topical treatments :\ which didn’t really do much other than irritate my skin, or leave it all flaky and weird. So I guess that has left me with bad blood for the derm. But maybe I should just go to another place this time around…
Thank you so much!!! :]
See another one, I swear!
I had really bad luck with the one I saw, too, and I talked to my gyno about it, and she prescribed me some products that worked a bit.
If you saw a dermatologist, make sure that you use the products long enough for it to fully acclimate (sp?) to your skin. I’ve heard that the prescription strength stuff really does make your skin worse before it gets better and sometimes it takes a couple months before your skin is used to the strength of the medicine. After a couple months, people have told me that their skin is finally cleared up and never been better. Just a thought, but again everyone’s skin is different.
I used it until it was gone – about 3 months!
How do you manage you money when it comes to makeup? I have trouble not spending all of my money on it, then I don’t have money for anything else!
I set aside a certain amount of each month, and I look ahead to see what collections are coming out so I know when I need to set aside more/less — e.g. MAC has nothing come out in June really… but In the Groove is a huge launch (relatively speaking).
You can also try to find dupes in your stash to prevent buying a lot of the same shade, and then just allot yourself one or two new items from a collection that are unlike anything you have!
When you apply foundation with your fingers, how do you make sure that its even? I use the Revlon Colorstay foundation, and more often than not, my forehead appears to have to most of the foundation… I pour a bit onto my free hand before I use my right fingers to work the foundation onto my face, if that’s any help. Thanks!
I personally don’t use my fingers to apply foundation, other than tinted moisturizer, but when I apply tinted moisturizer, I apply a dab to each cheek, my forehead, and my chin, and then I work it in with both set of fingertips! I make sure to blend it out towards my hair line so that everything is covered.
MAC nude lipstick recommendations for NW43 sometimes NW45 skin tone please?
Thank-you for doing these sessions by the way, greatly appreciate them! 🙂 x
Ps. I do want something with a bit of colour on my face, not completely nude or too light! x
Hey!
Have you tried MAC Fanfare, Modesty, Touch, or Honeylove?
Hello Christine!
I am between a NC43-NC45. I find it hard to find nude lipsticks that don’t wash me out. I love Mac lipsticks.
Also, I have dry skin and I’m looking for a foundation that will make me look dewey. I don’t like heavy coverage.
Nat
Hi Nat,
Have you tried Kinda Sexy or Honeylove?
For a foundation, you might like MAC Face & Body (dewy) or MAC Mineralize Satinfinish (very dewy).
No I haven’t. Thanks 🙂
I’m an NC44 and my favorite nude is jubilee! At first it’s too much of a nude, but after 5 minutes it sort of oxidizes or turns into a tad darker color! Still a nude though, you should give it a try! 🙂
Hi Christine,
I’ve been addicted to your blog for about 6 months now and I can’t thank you enough for how helpful your blog has been to me – as I’m just getting into makeup. I love your MAC Guide 🙂 This isn’t really a question but I just wanted to say keep up the good work!
Thank you so much, Kelli!
1: What is the equivalent to NC15 in Mac’s Face/Body foundation? And what do you think of it?
2: I’m going on a trip tom. and I’m not sure what all to pack or if I’ll have issues bringing certain cream/gel products on a plane….any experience in that area? Pointers?
3: What do you think would be a good lipstick color (Mac) for my skin tone? I’m getting married in Oct. and am looking for some color that will stay but look rather natural at the same time, mlbb. =)
That’s all I can think of for now! Thanks! We appreciate everything you do!
Hi Emily,
1.) According to users who helped create the Foundation Matrix, there is no match for NC15. If there was one, it would be C1 at best.
2.) Just make sure to keep it under 3 oz. and everything in a quart-sized bag. I use travel size products or else buy empty travel-sized containers (you can find ’em at drugstores/grocery stores) and squirt my moisturizer into those. Otherwise pack ’em in your check-in baggage and you won’t have any issues.
3.) Have you tried Sweetie or Angel?
I just want to reply to this one as well, since I just got back from vacation.
You’re only allowed one baggie, so be very selective in what you bring. I refuse to put my makeup in my checked bags. I used to put everything in my carryon, but can’t do that anymore.. So, now I put my shampoo, deodorant, hair products, toothpaste, and stuff like that in my checked bags. If my bag gets lost, I can easily run to the drugstore and replace that stuff. It would be too expensive to replace all that makeup! In my baggie I put my lipglosses, mascara, foundation, fix+, and small containers of my skincare stuff. My baggie is stuffed LOL! I save sample containers from Sephora, and sterilize them. I put my face cream and stuff in those. They’re like little pill containers.
My bag always has to get searched though, and they don’t tell me why, so I can prevent it in the future. Anyway, when they go through my makeup bag, they don’t say anything about fluidlines, paintpots, and lipsticks being in there, and not in my baggie. If I have room in my baggie, I will put those items in as well.
Have your baggie out and ready when you get to security, and everything should go smoothly.
Remember, the quart size isn’t the big one. I’ve seen lots of people make that mistake. It’s a bit bigger than sandwich size. I’ve noticed that they say “great for travel” and stuff on them. At some drugstores, they will sell quart size bags, with a bunch of travel bottles inside of them.
Have a great trip!!
Thanks guys! I appreciate it!
Oh! One more! Any good cream-eyeshadows in purple you can think of? I’ve been on the hunt for a good one for a while…I looked at MUFE Aqua Cream but it reminded to much of Mac’s Artifact, which I have.
MUFE #19 looks fierce, though it’s apparently not FDA approved here in the states.
But otherwise, maybe Tarina Tarantino’s Purple Velvet?
Laura Mercier cream shadow in Titanium is a beautiful purple!
Hi Christine,
I always look forward to these sessions so thanks in advance for all of your time today!
I am thinking about trying MUFE Duo Mat powder foundation, but I can’t get to a sephora to check the colors anytime soon. I am currently using Benefit Hello Flawless Cute as a bunny honey (although it’s a bit light for the summer), and have yellow AND pink undertones, and have brown hair & hazel eyes. Do you think you could recommend a MUFE color?
Thanks so much!
I would guess around 203 or 205!
Hi Christine
I’m between NC40-NC42. I have dark brown hair and I just wanted to ask what would be a good eyeshadow to use for my brows. MAC or NYX would be a good brand. Also if I have my hair colored do I also have to change the color I use for my eyebrows
Please and thank you
Hey Azaza,
I would think MAC Espresso or Brun!
I believe the rule of thumb is that you can just use a lighter powder to fill in if you go lighter. I don’t think most people bleach/change their brows too much.
Hey Christine! I’m still trying to find my HG foundation. I am a NC20, but I’m probably a little darker now since its summer. I want to have a medium coverage foundation that still looks natural and feels light. I want something that will cover a few acne scars that I have and discoloration overall. My price range is anything under $45. I heard good things about Nars sheer glow, but is there anything else you could recommend?
Oh! One other thing, I am trying to find an undereye concealer for my dry eyes. Do you recommend lancome effacernes or amazing concealer or something else? By the way, I have dry skin for my other question.
I don’t think I’ve tried either, though I know I bought a tube of Amazing that I haven’t yet tried, lol.
I do like theBalm’s Time Balm, Eve Pearl’s Salmon Concealer, MUFE Lift, & MAC Select Cover.
I haven’t tried NARS Sheer Glow, but you might like MUFE HD. It provides nice medium coverage without being heavy, and it looks natural — it’s not dewy but not matte.
What is your personal opinion on the packaging and products from MAC’s collection: Venomous Villains? What are some of your likes and dislikes of bare minerals?
To be honest, just seeing promo photos is really not much to go off of. I’m much more curious to see packaging and products in person, playing with the colors. Since I depot just about everything, packaging by MAC isn’t a big deal 🙂
I haven’t tried Bare Minerals, sorry!
Hi!
I had Viva Glam Gaga from MAC and I remember thinking it looked awful. I swapped it for Angel, which I absolutely HATE on my skin. I have NW10-15 skin. Do you think Gaga would look good on me? Also can you reccomend some other lipsticks for me? I like natural looking colors, like sheer corals/pinks..and maybe a sheer red. I like glossy finishes, and also MAC Amplified Creams.
Thanks!
Hey Nikki,
You might like something like Shy Girl, Creme Cup, or even Speed Dial – you might just find that all of those are too cool toned or too pale.
Ladybug is a fun sheer red, since it’s a lustre finish. See Sheer could be pretty and natural if you used it lightly, as well!
MAC crosswires looks nice on pale skins as well, it comes out a reddish coral on me.
I have gaga and love it, but you have to exfoliate before you apply cause it sticks to any dry bits on your lips.
For reference my closest match at MAC is NW10/15 – but it’s still not a perfect match cause it’s too orange. My skin is neutral beige with pink undertones.
“Hue” looks good on me (it’s a sheer neutral pink and it appears far less pale on me than on Chistine)
http://www.temptalia.com/the-spring-season-mac-hue-lipstick
“Hot Tahiti” is an interesting sheer red (actually, it’s a glaze). It doesn’t look that awesome in the tube but on lips it appears as a lovely reddish coral. It goes well with my fair pink toned skin. It’s still red but more natural than “Ladybug”.
🙂
Hello, i was just wondering if you knew of a good dupe for Mac Nude rose (D Squared collection), its my fav lipstick and im nearly out, I know Way to love was very simillar but you cant get hold of it anymore either. i dont really mind any brand, im just looking for a good dupe. Thank you
Hi,
Maybe MAC Hue or Plink.
Hi Christine
I really love Nars blush in penny lane, what are some similar colors by mac?
& the foundation I wear is Chanel Teint Innocence liquid foundation in 50 Naturel intensity 4.5 would you happen to know what color I would be in mac foundations and powders? Just wondering lol
Hmm, I would say something like MAC Margin or Breath o’ Plum! Around NW/NC 40-45 I believe!
Hi Christine, I’m fairly new to your site but I’ve enjoyed everything so far and I love this Q&A idea.
I just got the Jill Stuart Aqua Crystal Illuminance Eyeshadow palette yesterday. They didn’t have Dazzling Moon in the store which is what I really wanted. I don’t think Jill Stuart is a brand you normally cover on here but maybe you’ve seen these. My problem is how to use the sparkly pink and sparkly purple colors (I can’t return it) on my tan-olive-bronze skin. I NEVER wear these colors..pinks and lavenders usually make me look gray and therefore corpse-like. Should I perhaps layer just for a sparkly effect over different shadows? I have no idea how to create a look with the entire palette that won’t wash me out. Any advice would be much appreciated.. thanks!
I don’t think Jill Stuart is carried near me or very much in the states 🙁
What about pairing the pink/purple with a very warm brown? Or maybe more like a reddish plum?
good ideas – thanks!
Hello! I’m about a NC15, with brown hair and eyes. I would like to know of a good lipstain, as far as wear-time and even color. Also, What’s a good lip color? Any brand, drugstore or high-end, is fine. I’ve been on a quest for the perfetc red lip, coral, nude, etc.
Last queation–I have trouble winging out my liquid liner. I love how it looks, but I can never get the wings to look the same!
Thank you!
And I should mention I’m not a fan of frosty or glittery lip products, and I like the brands Urban Decay, Stila, etc. Basically anything at an Ulta or Sephora, lol.
The best I’ve found is Laura Mercier’s Lip Stain, but I don’t really think I’ve run into super excellent ones yet.
MAC Lipsticks: Blankety, Crosswires, Freckletone, “O”, Viva Glam I
NARS Lipglosses: Frisky Summer, Greek Holiday, Orgasm, Pillow Talk
NARS Lipsticks: Christina, Napoli, Niagara
Urban Decay Lipsticks: 5150, Indecent, Naked, Voodoo
Try using your angled eyeliner brush and shadow to create the wing first, because then you can outline and smudge a bit without ruining the look.
Thank you so much! I always love reading this site. I esp. love how you take a lot of pictures!
Hi, thanks for this by the way!
My skin is about NC30, for reference. I have yellow undertones.
I tend to lean towards corals for both blush and lip products.
I’m deciding on a NARS blush and was debating between Gilda or Gina. Which do you recommend?
Best Mac lipstick shades for my skintone?
I think you’d love Gina! 🙂
Lipsticks: Bombshell, Craving, Crosswires, Plumful, Sweetie, Velvet Teddy, Viva Glam I
Hi, Christine,
I am curious about MAC’s Mineralized Skinfinishes. For reference I am NW35. I was looking at Comfort, to possibly purchase, but do I really need a MSF if I have mineralized blushes like Cheek and Cheerful, and a blush like Margin that has shimmer in it? Can I just dust those all over my face in the same way I would a MSF or are the skin finishes different in some way?
Thanks much.
I don’t think I’d dust any of those all over my face – not even Comfort. I think Comfort is too pigmented to be used that way!
Hi Christine,
I love the original BareMinerals foundation (I use fairly light) but it’s started to look a bit cakey now in the summer heat and my T-zone starts to look shiny in the afternoon. Is there an especially good product to combat this?
Have you tried just spritzing a mist of water or Fix+ over it? That can help make it look less powdery. You may want to use a primer or simply a blot powder to keep the oiliness at bay.
i use bareminerals too. the best trick i’ve found is, using a baby wipe (the liquid in it won’t irritate your skin), slightly dampen your brush (i like to use smashbox #19 face & body brush, or MAC 182 buffer brush) by running it across the baby wipe.
then do the “swirl, tap” they tell you to do, and buff it onto your skin in circular motions. this will get rid of it looking cakey. finish off by cleaning off your brush with the baby wipe.
if you don’t have any baby wipes, you can mist a kleenex with fix + or a facial mist (i like avene brume eau thermale or a pure floral water), and do the dampening this way. i find spritizing the brush makes the brush too wet, but the baby wipe method makes it just damp enough to make it less cakey.
afterwards, use a fluffier brush, like the MAC 187 or ecotools powder brush, to lightly apply a blotting powder, like MAC blot or bareminerals original mineral veil.
if that doesn’t work, you might want to switch to the matte formula of bareminerals, which has silica to absorb the oils in the t-zone. good luck!
I use BareMinerals, too. I usually use a primer or moisturizer first, and I spritz my kabuki with mineral water just enough to mist it, do the application as usual and find it gives a nice, evenly-textured application. I spritz my face (super lightly) afterward and haven’t noticed any flakiness or uneveness.
Yay! I look forward to these!
I hope you had a good fourth, I know I did! (I didn’t want to come home).
I have a couple questions. I’m NW15-20/NC20 (weird, I know) and I preordered a Stereo Rose, I tried it on in the store and it looked good, but I’m kind of iffy on it when I bring it home. Is there any way to tone it down just in case it is TOO corally?
And my second question:
I’m moving to CA in the near future (hopefully sooner than later) but is there any products that would be a must have for that kind of climate? I’ll be in the Bay Area where it gets kind of hot and muggy sometimes. I was looking for maybe a foundation, setting spray — that kind of stuff so I can make a list haha and its 1000% different than WA weather.
Hi Jessie,
Use a stippling brush like the 188 or 187, or you can always blot foundation/pressed powder over it to lighten it.
I live in the Bay Area, so I guess I don’t find it muggy here at all really, lol! I don’t think you really need much other than in the summer, when it is hot, so maybe a primer or just a lightweight foundation.
It was kind of hot out this weekend lol I was melting because I decided it would be a good idea to put full makeup on lol I know Fix+ and stuff is a must.
Do you have a face primer you like the best? I’ve used Laura Gellar’s Spackle, Too Faced, and the Urban Decay ones. But are there better ones?
I only use Korres’ silicone-free, because I can’t handle all the dimethicone they put in most primers 🙁
the best primers are Clarins Instant light complexion perfector and Giorgio Armani Light Master Primer.You’ll love those 2 i promise ! Even Mac Prep +prime line filler is great
hi! i’m a typical chinese asian and i have similar skin tone to you. Is it true that i can’t wear brown eyeshadows? It always look muddy and so not flattering. An example is Buckwheat eyeshadow from the Naked Honey collection.. I can’t wear it at all, or is it just my technique?
I don’t know who told you that you couldn’t wear brown, but I think that’s silly. You can wear it. Try it — if you don’t like it, wash it off. I wear browns all the time!
angie, i’m a korean-asian with a relatively fair skin tone… and i wear brown shadows all the time.
my favorite brand for neutral/brown eyeshadows is bobbi brown, and i find that the key to brown looking good on asian skin tones is to avoid reddish browns.
golden-browns, taupes, grey-browns, and ashy-cool-browns, or browns with a bit of violet (NOT plum, violet) seem to flatter my skin tone.
for your reference i’m NW15/NC20, bobbi brown warm ivory in the winter/beige-cool beige in the summer. i’m not as “yellow” as a lot of asians, but more neutral skin tone.
however, in the summer, i DO turn more golden/yellow (i don’t tan, i just become a bit… golden as opposed to pink), and i find this is the best time for me to wear browns.
i think the key is for you to find the correct shade of brown. i don’t wear very many MAC brown shades so i’m not too helpful there, but in bobbi brown line i like: mink, burnt sugar, java, fawn, heather mauve, heather, flint, mahogany (also awesome for brows) and caviar.
these shades all look good with bone, navajo, champagne or baby pink as a base.
just try more browns… you’ll see, it can work!
Hey Christine!
Here are mine:
1. What do you DO with a Mac MSF? Is it just glorified blusher? What brush do you use? Where do you put it? Which one would you recommend for an MSF beginner with NC 40 skin?
2. Will the Clarisonic help my combo skin? Will it? I’m willing to put down the money but is it really worth it? I don’t put on a lot of foundation (tinted moisturizer and a dusting of blot powder or mineral powder), and I guess I worry about wrinkling from wearing down the skin. Thoughts?
3. What’s the fall look (work and play) for tanned ladies like myself this year? I see a lot of smokey eye but don’t know how to make it daytime appropriate. Any MAC shadow/lippie recs would be highly appreciated…
4. I’m a Bobbi Brown virgin. What do you think I should try out first? Eye and face recs, for NC 40?
Whew, that’s a lot. You’re the absolute bestest and I love your website! Thank you in advance!!!
Hi Anita,
1.) I very rarely wear them, as they seem to break me out and cause millia on my cheeks. 🙁 They can be used as a blush, highlighter, or bronzer — just depends on the shade and your skin tone. For instance, what might be a highlighter on me may be a subtle blush on someone paler. I would use the 188 brush for more intense shades, 116 for less intense, and 165 or 138 for highlighting.
2.) It could. Skin varies greatly between people, so it’s hard to say if it will or won’t. If you’re not sure, buy from a place with a great return policy – you should start seeing some results before the return period is up. As long as you use it only two or three times a week, I don’t see how it would wrinkle from wearing down the skin. It exfoliates the skin, which is something recommended in the skincare routine overall.
3.) Plummy, smoky eyes and/or plummy, berry lips. You can try smoking out the lower lash line, rather than the crease, to make it a more wearable look in the day time. For lips, you can blot and turn a color into more of a stain/soft sheer shade rather than an opaque, vavoom shade. Try New York Apple and Media for some darker lips; Shadowy Lady for a vampy eyeshadow.
4.) I’d actually try out her Long-Wearing Gel Eyeliner — whatever shade you think you’d use. Those are a great way to introduce yourself to the Bobbi Brown line 🙂
Thanks!
Goodness, you are speedy. Thank you so much!!!
Hello, I am looking for product ideas for helping combat oily skin with large pores that is also acne prone and sensitive to fragrance. If you have skin care or foundation/powders whatever suggestions I would greatly appreciate it. Worst skin type ever right? Haha. Also if there are lower-end suggestions that would be helpful. Thank you so much for all that you do. I check your site several times daily. 😛
Regular exfoliation can help keep pores a little controlled, but in general, diffusing products like NARS Smoothing Prep, MAC’s Refined Zone, etc. lay a thin film on skin that disguises the pores — but if you’re acne prone, I don’t think these would be great options for you (since they usually have dimethicone). You could try a silica powder like MUFE HD which can do some diffusing on the top layer.
Thank you, Ester!
Ester,
E.L.F. (http://eyeslipsface.com) has a silica finishing powder that a lot of people have compared to higher end things, and it’s super budget friendly.
Hi! I can never seem to cover up the redness around my nose, any recommendations?
Hi Sara,
Have you tried using a green-colored concealer?
I have MUFE’s concealer palette and it has a green concealer, but it doesn’t really do much for the redness.
Usually green helps to cancel/neutralize the red, and then you might put a little of flesh-colored on top. Otherwise, my only other recommendation would be Clinique’s Redness Relief Mineral Powder.
If I may add, I have a lot of redness in my T-zone and found that using powdered mineral foundation really helped to balance out my skintone, much better than liquid foundation does.
PBI, allergies create a lot of redness and discoloration around my nose and I use The Balm concealer there before makeup, and then at times after. The ingredients seem to soothe the area and the product is great as a sheer disguise for the poor pitiful areas around my nostrils.
Can you think of any colored marcaras that actually show up? Doesn’t matter what brand or what color. Just want something fun 🙂
If you have dark lashes, the best thing to do is use a lash primer like MAC Prep + Prime Lash or Lancome Oscillation Primer – it will help to lighten your lashes.
I hear Estee Lauder has some good ones, you could try them out!
diorshow azur blue is phenomenal
Do you know of any good coral lipsticks from MAC and drug store brands? I have always been forever looking for one. Thanks!
From MAC: Crosswires, See Sheer
Drugstore: Milani Cabana Coral
You should check out the Revlon Colorburst Lipstick in Peach. I think it’s a very flattering color and has a nice creamy finish with no frost.
Hi Christine,
I have oily medium-olive skin. Most of foundations I have tried have a red undertone to them while i am looking for something yellow or olive that stays matte on my oily skin, slighty radiant-not shiny, and could stay at least for 8 hours and medium to full coverage.
I have used:
Lancome Teint Idole in 6W –was slighty darker and red undertoned
Diorskin Nude liquid in #21 –was somewhat shiny
Diorskin Forever liquid in #31 –red undertones–one me atleast 🙁
Guerlain Parure Gold in #03- Beige Natural –hard to blend — results less radiant than the chanel one
Guerlain Parure Extreme in #03–seems dark–reddish
Channel Matlumiere in #40 Beige –radiant, stays on all day, very less red –but still not olive 🙁
Estee Lauder double wear in sand beige –RED
🙁
have i asked a lot Christine..?
I am a south asian girl …and am still looking for my perfect foundation—so far chanel is working well.
Have you ever come across a foundation that has olive undertones?
I am allergic to nothing, and have brown eyes, black hair-if that matters.
luv ur blog…:)
All these foundations look good in artificial light but not when i go out…
🙁
chanel is still fine…can i add something in it that is olive?lol
i meant go out in sunlight !
Hey Jind,
Bobbi Brown is actually known for having rather yellow foundations — so you might want to check out her range!
Have you ever thought about using Latisse?
I would never use it. Ever. First, I like my eye color, so I wouldn’t go tampering with it, but I don’t feel comfortable putting anything that has that many potential side effects near my eyes — which I view as pretty much irreplaceable! No, I’ll take stubby lashes.
yeah I said that @ first but I feel myself cracking under the weight of Claire Danes & Brooke Shields. You’ve strengthened my resolve a little bit more now.
There are other alternatives! I’ve actually heard good things about the L’oreal one. Check this out from Lollipop26. http://www.lollipop26writes.com/2010/06/rapidlash.html I don’t think I would try any of them after reading this, but she still likes the L’oreal one.
Be careful!
Hi, I was just wondering what your job is? And how you find time to have this website if you do have a job. I find it hard to balance my makeup obsession and my school work. 🙂
I’m a full time student 🙂 I use to-do lists and prioritize things. I’m big on planning!
Good day Christine!
I’m a big fan of your site! Keep up the good work!!
Really impressed with all your hard work and passion!
Anyways, just to let you know, I’m a NC20, combination skin and suffer from pimples on and off as I have pretty sensitive skin.
Any recommendations for:
Foundation: Preferably powdered (I have never tried cream / liquid, afraid that the coverage would be overwhelming), finishes velvety smooth, with good oil control. Currently using Shiseido’s Pureness Range.
Concealer: For eyebags, currently using a yellow color corrector, and for pimples, a green color corrector. I find that the coverage isn’t good. I’ve tried Stila’s perfecting concealer in the lightest shade and it was a disaster.
Eyeliner: A pencil / crayon type with good staying power. Have tried MAC’s technakohl liner and it was disappointing, smudges all the time! Currently using Majolica Majorca eyeliner which is felt tip. It has excellent staying power but I wanted something softer as this is liquid..
Lippies: I’ve tried MAC creme lipsticks and they always end up looking runny! I’m actually looking into something nude for the lips, and moisturizing at the same time.
Thanks!!
Hi Amanda,
For powder, I like Benefit’s Hello Flawless! as well as Clininque’s Almost Powder makeup. Anything about Shiseido’s you’re not loving?
For concealer, I like theBalm’s Time Balm, which works well on undereyes as well as pimples. MUFE Lift is nice on the undereyes as well.
I like UD 24/7 Liners and MUFE Aqua Eyes for eyeliners. Those are my two go-tos.
MAC Cremesheens or just MAC lipsticks in general? You might like Hue or Shy Girl by MAC. If you wanted non-MAC, let me know 😉
Sephora Flashy liners are amazing! I have tried two of them and they will stay on your skin until you decide to take them off with an oil based make up remover.
The color range is not as wide as the UD or the MUFE but they are only $8
Definitely check them out! 🙂
Hi Christine
I have problems finding a eyebrow shadow/pencil that works for me. I have brown hair but it’s not warm brown, it’s a cool brown color. I’m a NC20 for refernce on my skintone. All brown eyebrow shadows/pencils I’ve found is to warm and right I’m using a black one but it tend to be to dark and sharpe. Do you know of any eyebrow shadow/pencil that would work on me? I live in Sweden, Europe so a international brand would be great.
Have you tried MAC Brun? I find Brun pretty cool-toned. You could also try MAC Omega, which I think has a bit of a cooler tone to it, too.
I have the same problem as you! Brown powders are always too red on me, and blacks are too harsh. I’ve been using MAC’s concrete eyeshadow for over a year, and setting it with brow gel. In the past, I’ve even been able to get away with warmer greys. It just depended on how much I had to fill my brows.
No I have’n tried that one… Thanks for the tips, I will go and swatches them next time I’m at at MAC counter!
bobbi brown mahogany, espresso, hot stone, sable or saddle, depending on how dark your brown hair is.
asian brows look super unnatural with warm-toned pencils too, so i use mahogany, which is an ashy-brown.
I am the same as you Lina and a SA at my local MAC recommended the eye shadow Omega for filling in my eyebrows. It certainly doesn’t look like it would go in the pan but, when applied it’s amazing!
Christine, I see you updating the website a few times a day sometimes, how do you manage to balance the website thing and your studies? 😀
I have lots of to-do lists, and I just try to stay on top of everything – if you get behind, it just gets out of control! I just find list making shows me that everything is doable and allows me to prioritize what I need to get done and when!
Hi Christine!
me: nw20, blue eyes, dirty-blonde hair, very red/pink cheeks, acne scarring, 15 years old
My cheeks have a very uneven texture and are quite blotchy due to current acne and acne scarring from the past. With concealer, foundation and powder I cover them up easily and it looks fine. However once concealed, all the colour in my face is gone. Since the scarring isn’t just colour, it’s also texture, by putting any blush overtop, it just makes it looks like i never put anything over the acne/scars because of the pink/reds in every blush i’ve tried. Without colour, I look dead, people often ask me if I’m ill because of the lack of colour. I would really appreciate either blush recs, other product recs, or tips/tricks to combat this. I live in Canada and have access mainly to MAC and Sephora.
Thank you so much!
Have you tried using a peachy blush instead? Like MAC Peaches is very, very true peach, so it doesn’t pull red or pink.
hi! 😀 I’m a nw20, blond and green eyes and i’m looking for a neutral pink yellow undertone lipstick from mac. Could you help me please ?
is there a mac dupe for mac plink! lipstick ? I heard they don’t gonna sell it anymore :(, I love your blog btw!
Politely Pink, but it’s not a great dupe.
I’d recommend Sweetie or Bombshell (though Bombshell is frosty). I also like Speed Dial, but it can look a little blue-toned.
Thanks so much for this Christine!
1) I have a love of pink lipsticks but feel there is something in the mid-tone pinks that I am missing. I have the following pink lipsticks by MAC: Politely Pink, Nude Rose, Ahoy There, Viva Glam V + Gaga, High Strung, Plink!, Way to Love, Pink Burst, Victorian (last two I hardly ever wear). What am I missing? What is the mid-tone deeper pink colour?
2) Is MAC’s new Jazzed l/s anything like Ever Hip?
3) I have some summer weddings coming up and I am fearing the camera b/c of the shine the SPF gives off. Which foundation would you recommend? Concealer? Primer?
4) I’m around NW15 in MAC or 115 MUFE HD foundation with brown eyes+hair – Stereo Rose or Petticoat MSF?
Thank you!!!!
Hi Cherie,
1.) What about Girl About Town? It’s a deeper pink, not super hot pink, but pink. Beautiful.
2.) Ever Hip is a lot pinker. It’s like one is a coral-orange while the other is a coral-pink. I don’t think they’re the same, personally!
3.) I like MUFE HD for photos hands down. I’d probably wear a primer, but only use concealer if you need it! It’s really the foundation that matters most.
4.) Petticoat is slightly more flattering, but either would work, really!
Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!
I have MUFD HD foundation so I will stick with that 🙂 Thanks for the tips. I know they will save me from a shine face! lol
I will check out that l/s for sure! I like having a complete colour wheel 🙂
The MUFE HD primer in the 0 color (the white one) is excellent under the MUFE HD foundation. It sinks into your skin fast and really increases the staying power of the foundation.
Christine I am looking for an everyday look using Mac products. I am an NC37, mexican descent. Can you give me some ideas, eye shadows, eyeliner, lipstick blush, the works. 😉
Eyeshadows: Soft Brown, Satin Taupe, Bronze, Ricepaper, Naked Lunch, Sumptuous Olive, Patina
Eyeliner: Graphblack, Borderbrown
Lipstick: Crosswires, Sweetie, Syrup, Honeylove
Blush: Margin, Sunbasque
Hi Christine, I’m Kasia 🙂
I was wondering, which blush or MSF from In The Groove would you recommend for someone rather pale (I’m NC15 – NC20 in summer, I get tanned pretty easily but it’s not very dark). I don’t like pink sheen that much, I’m a natural blonde and I think that, when applied on my cheeks, pinks make me look like a little piggy 😉 (with the exception of Pinch O’Peach blush). 🙂 TIA
If you don’t like pink so much, you may like Stereo Rose – which is definitely more of a coral 🙂
Thanks a lot!! 🙂 I’ll look at it!
hey christine! i just bought the happy together mineralize duo from MAC in the groove. will it suit me? and how should i use it? im an NC 35 but a bit lighter than that. can you recommed shimmery eyeshadows and good lipsticks and glowy blushes from mac or mufe or benefit. thanks a million
I think it will! I would lay down the matte side first, then tap a little of the shimmer on top.
My skin is nc15, and bronzer would really help me when if I wanted to look a little darker. But everything that I have tried has looked to orange on me. could you recommend something?
MAC Refined, Cargo Blu Ray Bronzer, Laura Mercier Shimmer Bronzer
It’s about 100 degrees all along the eastern seaboard today and promises to be nearly as hot all week. I don’t have AC in my bedroom at home so am dripping sweat as I get ready for work, and putting on makeup starts to feel pointless because it just gets mucked up! But I like to wear it for work…I didn’t do foundation, just undereye concealer and then setting powder all over my face, and applied everything quickly right before I ran out the house and took the bus instead of walked to the subway station. But it’s a giant pain. What kinds of products do you recommend to help deal with heat at home while getting ready? Good quality blotting powders, papers, whatever? Sweatproof foundations? When I’m AT work, the office is well ACed and I have no problems, and I am at the point where I just wash my face right when I get home, but I want to be able to apply makeup at least!
Hey Daphne,
1.) Letting everything absorb!! Sometimes we put on our makeup before our moisturizer is fully absorbed/dried down.
2.) Use makeup primers to help build a foundation/base for the makeup.
3.) Lighter foundations are better — heavier ones just melt more.
I haven’t found Setting Sprays to do much for me, and blotting papers are always a good thing to have on hand. There are some sweatproof foundations, but if you don’t *need* it, then you can use a tinted moisturizer and loose setting powder and should be OK.
Lorac is going to be on Hautelook in a couple of days! Do you have any Lorac likes or musthaves I should check out (if they’re there haha hopefully!)?
I’ve heard good things about their baked eyeshadows, but I haven’t tried too much. I do like their Multiplex glosses!
I bought my first LORAC products from Sephora in the Hollywood Hot List (or something like that) and I was very impressed with their eyeshadows! They were all very pigmented and soft/velvety…just make sure you tap off the excess from the brush. The colors were Enlighten (white shimmer hilighter), VIP (golden bronze), and Guest List (medium brown shimmery). Also check out her Couture Shine Liquid Lipstick! Very glossy and pigmented since it’s a lip lacquer/lipstick. I have the color Trendsetter and it’s a gorgeous pinky nude champange-ish color (I’m NC30).
LOVE your blog!
1)I have light to med skin tone that is dry and sensitive but my eyelids get oily.I need to get an eyeshadow base but cant decide which to get. In your opinion which would be best MAC paint pots UDPP Too face shadow insurance or other?
2) With dare to wear coming up I have been looking very forward too getting going bananas but am afraid I might miss out on it. I have seen that golden lemon pigment and crest the wave are similar whats your take on them? Are either of them comparable and or worth getting in place of going bananas or are they all equally fantastic and deserve a place in my collection? Thanks so much.
Hi LH,
1.) I actually love NARS Smudgeproof the most right now. After that, MAC Paint Pots, then UDPP, then TFSI. My issue with TFSI is that it separates.
2.) Golden Lemon is too yellow; Crest the Wave is also pretty yellow, but kind of similar. If you mixed Nylon with Crest the Wave, I think that might work. I think Going Bananas is worth getting.
Thanks for the response when I go back to the mall I’ll grab a Nars and a paint pot. I fully plan on getting Going bananas just was curious if there was something else close to it in case I missed out because so many are talking about it. Thanks again:)
Oh! And I saw you mentioned millia in one of your comments! What do you DO about those? They drive me CRAZY 🙁 I am constantly scratching and picking at them because nothing bothers me more than rough texture to my skin. None of my acne treatments seem to work because they are not infected or anything, and basically they seem to last forever unless I massacre my face and, um, manually remove them. Any better ideas?
I usually just let them go (I know, it’s hard), and ever since I stopped using MSFs, most of mine have gone away (they used to be really bad).
Hey Christine!
Just wondering, what cream blush would you recommend for a light peachy-pink, and more of a pale, petal pink colour? I have light-medium warm skin for reference. I also have combination skin (oily t-zone). I just want to know the best formula! I also would like to know of an appropriate brush for application 🙂
Thanks!
Illamasqua Promise for a petal-pink, NARS Orgasm Multiple. Illamasqua, Make Up For Ever, and NARS do great cream blushes. I like the MAC 188 with cream blushes.
hey cristine one questions…what are your must haves for the new mac colletion? im an NC 30 skin tone and i wanted to know if stereo rose and candelight will fit my skin tone?
I haven’t seen most of it, so I can’t make any recommendations.
But yes, both of those MSFs should suit your skin tone!
Hi!
I have VERY dry, sensitive skin. I’m an NC15 – I am always the fairest color in foundation! Can you recommend a really good moisterizer that will help with both dry skin and acne prone skin?
Thanks!
Clinique’s Maximum Hydrator worked REALLY well for me when I was breaking out something fierce AND really dry in NYC.
Hi Christine!
Like most people, I’m always looking for a better concealer. I don’t need it for under-eye area, but I do have a problem with dry, flaky acne spots. Every concelaer just seems to accentuate those spots! What concealer would you recommend that is opaque and works well on covering dry spots?
Thanks for your help!
Hey Kelsey,
Personally, I just find that liquid foundation patted on a little heavier seems to do better than any concealer does! theBalm’s Time Balm is super thick and opaque, though!
I’m looking for a perfume that’s somewhat sexy, but also sweet and will attract guys. I’m a teen, so I don’t want anything too old, but I don’t want a sugary sweet scent. Any recommendations?
I LOVE Dior Addict and Dior Addict Shine. KenzoAmour is also good, too. Very sexy and sultry, but sweetened by vanilla.
i like miss dior cherie too!
are there any other cheaper alternatives to these?
Victoria’s Secretly Very Sexy or Sexy Little Things Noir.
Ah how perfect I was just getting on the site to hunt for a good cream blush. I have medium skin tone, oily, but am looking for a good bright colored cream blush to wear for the summertime. I am open to all brands, I use Bare Escentuals foundation. Looking for a cream blush that will last all day at the beach! thanks for taking the time to answer 🙂
I think you’d like Illamasqua’s Rude or Promise! 🙂
Thank you so much Christine! Thanks for feeding my addiction every day 🙂
Hi Christine,
I have light, yellow-undertoned skin, medium to dark brunette hair with natural red highlights and light green eyes. I would love advice on an everyday look. I have been using clinque Acne Solutions foundation and its great that it doesn’t break me out but its a tad drying even for my oily skin. I was thinking of switching to the Even Better but I’m afraid that my hypoallergenic skin with break out. What do you think? I mostly use neutral colors like browns but I really want to use golds, bronzes, and maybe even a easy-to-wear purple. Not in the same look of course =). I was thinking of getting the NARS Isolde, Alhambra, and Kalahari duos. I only have a few MAC eyeshadows (Hey, Rose Blanc, Tissue weight, and Grand Entrance) and a lot of Benefit Creaseless Cremes that I just got as a gift (RSVP, Tattle Tale, Samba-dy Loves me, Busy Signal, Sippin n Dippin, Flyin Down To, and Skinny Jeans) though I have only used RSVP so far. From these I guess you can somewhat see what I usually drift towards. I have semi-sparse medium length lashes and usually use a black (non waterproof) mascara and either a dark green or black eyeliner (Prestige Total Intensity <– these rock btw) on the top lashes only with the MAC Chromagraphic pencil on the waterline. I am 18 and going off to college in the fall so I would really like a new flirty look to rock. Your the best, thanks!
Isolde and Kalahari are great duos for you – I think they would suit your tastes and your skin tone.
As far as Acne Solutions vs. Even Better, I would look at the ingredients and see if the first five or so are similar. You could always try a sample for a few days, and if it doesn’t work out, switch back.
Congrats on going to college!
Thanks.
Would you reccomend Pink Swoon or Well Dressed for NW15 skin?
Yes! Both would be great, Nikki!
I’d go with Well Dressed
Dame is really pretty too.
I’m between nw15-20. I have both, and both are awesome on my skin, depending what type of look I’m going for.
Hey Christine here are my questions:
1. What would you reccomend for foundation that photograph well? and possibly what brush could I use?
2. Random question but have you ever went to a dermatologist? because I will be going soon for these bumps I have not sure what they are …I am guessing it is like underneath acne ….still not sure.
3.What are your favourite coral lipsticks?
4.What NARS blushes would you reccommend for my NC35?
P.S -I hardly ever comment but I go to your site everyday …I think I am just a little shy but I just wanted to let you know how much I love your site and love your reccomendations.
Hi Pamela,
1.) MUFE HD – I use it with the MAC 109 spritzed with water
2.) I’ve seen one, but I wasn’t pleased with the one I saw. She said to stop using makeup. Forever. And only to use oil-free skincare — but when I asked her what ingredients to stay away from because “oil free” isn’t regulated by the FDA or anything – she had nothing to say. To tell someone not to use makeup forever seems a little drastic, particularly since it wasn’t like we spent years trying to treat it.
3.) MAC Mari-sheeno, MAC Crosswires, Cle de Peau #101, Guerlain Gems
4.) NARS Deep Throat, Mata Hari, Gilda
Thank you!
hi, do you know if they will be selling eyeshadow palettes and pans at counter in europe too? thanks
I don’t know, sorry!
i was also wondering if you know of a good dupe for Mac Magnetique lipglass from a rose romance. thank you
MAC Star Nova is the closest perm. shade, but it’s not very close.
Hi Christine, I have a few questions
1. I have combination skin with really oily t-zone and SUPER DRY cheeks. Using MUFE HD FOundation/ LAURA MERCIER TINTED MOISTURIZER with MUFE HD powder as a setting powder really helps controlling my oil area, but I notice that I have patches of flaky skin under my cheeks that looks really ugly when I apply foundation on . What would you recommend to buff out those dry patches. I have uber sensitive skin, too.
2. I have fair skin with yellow undertone ( MUFE 117 is a little bit too light, 118 is a lil bit too ashy/dark, but 120matches perfectly.) I have big eyes but thick,hooded eyelids ( asian)so I don’t have a big enough crease to pull off colorful eyeshadows. I love neutral look with a POP of warm color, what would you recommend. I prefer MAC & NARS shadows. THANK YOU
Hi Tawny,
1.) Are you using any scrub/exfoliator? They have gentle/mild scrubs or chemical exfoliators (so it’s not scrubbing particles) that can help some of the flakiness. You could also apply thicker/heavier moisturizer on that area and wait for it to sink in. If you do this for a few weeks, you may seem an overall, more long-term improvement, too.
2.) What about something like MAC Patina by the lash line, maybe Bronze smudged in the lash line, and faded upwards with Nylon or Shroom?
This isn’t a question but you should make an iPhone app! That way whenever you update your site your followers get a notification right on their phone!!
Thanks for the suggestion – we’re still trying to figure out how to build one and tackle the costs of development.
Actually, I was just thinking the same thing this morning! You should totally have an iPod app!
Hi Christine!
1. I have oily and acne prone skin. Can you recommend a good mattifier?
2. I thinking of purchasing MAC eyeshadows in neutrals and pinks. What can you recommend? For reference, I’m NC40/C4.
Hi Yo,
1.) CoverFX MatteFX (I believe that’s the name) or Smashbox Anti-Shine.
2.) Ricepaper, Soba, Brun, Bronze, Satin Taupe, Naked Lunch for neutrals; Expensive Pink, Da Bling for pinks
Hey Christine,
I have a question too.
What do you do for a living? I think you wrote somewhere that you are not a makeup artist. So what are you doing and how can you find the time for makeup and your blog?
I am a full-time student! 🙂 Since school goes in and out of heavy workload periods, I can spend more time on the blog on some days, less on other days.
Hey Christine!
Sorry I have so many questions!
1. I have a ton of eye shadow brushes but its time to invest in face brushes as I only own bare essentials flawless face brush and a tiny sephora blush brush! How many (can some be dual purpose) and which brushes would I need to apply a bronzer, a msf like sterorose, a powder foundation, blush, a loose setting powder?
2. Best matte finish foundation for severely oily shiny skin that won’t oxidize orange on a darker shade like nc35 while also good for skin that is sensitive to silicone and bismuth (I think thats why I can’t use bare minerals and MUF powders) ?
3. Guerlain keeps releasing different bronzers, which is your favorite?
4. Best finishing powder? I’ve been thinking La Mers must be good and its one of the most affordable products from that company!
5. Is there a dupe for Burberrys Russet blush?
Thanks in advance!!
Hi Krys,
1.) I would recommend a separate brush for powder foundation/setting powder and one for blush/bronzer. You could do two or three. A brush like the 134 or 191 would work for foundation/setting powder. For blush/bronzer, the 116 would work. The 188 is great for MSFs, but you could get away with the 116.
2.) I like MAC Studio Fix Fluid or MUFE Mat+ Velvet, but I believe both of those have silicone in it. The problem is that most matte foundations use dimethicone to give it that longer-lasting matte finish 🙁
3.) I don’t know if I have one! I so rarely use bronzer, lol!
4.) Laura Mercier Loose Setting powder is my favorite.
5.) I haven’t seen it.
Hi Christine,
I’m looking for a good self tanner, preferably a gradual tanner or moisturizer that tans over time. I’m in high-school and I have rather pale skin. For reference I have yellow undertones and dark brown hair, I am a medium in mac skin finish natural, I’m about a NC 20-25 and I use the second lightest color (buff) in the revlon colorstay foundation. I’m trying to be very cautious in the sun and haven’t tanned much this summer, however I’d dearly love to get more color in my skin. I’d be very grateful if you could recommend a self tanner, preferably drugstore and if possible a gradual tanner. I’m very wary of looking orange or streaky and I’ve never used fake tan before.
Thanks 😀
I like L’Oreal’s Sunless Sublime for drugstore!
Thank you 🙂
Jergens! They have an amazingggg self tanner that a)smells great, b) doesnt streak, and c) does a great job moisturizing your skin. I cant for the life of me remember what its called but when I was using it on a regular basis (every time I got out of the shower it was on!) I always got compliments on how tan my legs were. They have a gradual tanning product for your face too that also does a great job moisturizing. Hope it works out!
Thanks 🙂
Do you have any worry using products that are made in China?
Depends on the brand. If it’s a brand I have never heard of, yes. If it’s a reputable brand, not so much.
Do you think Coastel Scents, BH Cosmetics, and the other companies that sell those 88 palettes are ok? I’m kind of worried since they are so cheap for so many colors.
I don’t know anything about BH Cosmetics, and I don’t know much about Coastal Scents. I think in a certain respect… you get what you pay for. I don’t feel comfortable using the 88 palettes, because I know the manufacturing process may be sketchy (but it could be just fine, too) — since the U.S. has had some problems with the importation of goods made in China, when it comes to putting something near my eyes, I’ll err on the side of caution.
I recall you saying recently that you use Mario Badescu’s Drying lotion. I’ve had mine sitting around for awhile cuz I just don’t have great results with it. Sure, the pimple is gone in the morning but in its place is a gaping and oozing wound. I don’t know what’s worse, that or the zit? Then it scabs over and looks just as bad as the pimple only harder to conceal. What do you that makes this such a wonderful product for you?
Hm, I’ve never had any gaping/oozing wound… no scabs either. Are you popping yours?
Nope, not popping. Every month I get one or two pimples on my chin that start off as those painful red cysts. After a day or so the cyst will morph in to an enormous whitehead. I dab on the drying lotion per the instructions and in the morning I’m left with a crusty grossness where the pimple was. Wash that away and there’s a little crater that eventually scabs over. I was thinking maybe Neosporin would help… What does the drying lotion do for you?
It just seems to reduce the size, take away the redness, and seems to speed up the overall life of the pimple! I use Mederma on any marks myself (scared of scarring!).
Hi! I use the MB drying lotion as well, and I think I know what you’re talking about. The drying lotion tends to make the pimple dry up (so you are left with “crusty grossness” on the surface) but there is still pus (i know, gross) on the inside sometimes. When you wash your face, you might be scrubbing too hard and hardened area comes off, leaving a fleshy crater on your face that still might leave scarring! If this happens, put neosporin on it and leave it alone (no makeup!). I usually try to be gentle when removing the MB drying lotion in the morning; I use hydrogen peroxide on a q-tip and it comes off easily.. and then I try not to rub or scrub that area so it can continue healing. Hope this helps 🙂
I use the drying lotion alll of the time & I’ve never had that problem. Sounds like you might be overscrubbing the affected area. You don’t want to irritate the area more than it is. If I pick (which I know is horrible), I put Neosporin over the spot so it doesn’t scar. Mario also makes buffering lotion, which is for cystic acne. Don’t give up on the drying lotion though, it’s fantastic!
Hi Christine!
I follow your site from Spain!! Here’s my question 🙂
I’m looking for a tinted moisturizer (or a low-coverage foundation) for my skin type.
I’d like it to be as matte as possible, something that could unify my skin tone and illuminate it.
I don’t need much coverage as I want it for summer and I would put it only with a little blush. Just to give a fresh looking.
My skin is oily, with large pores in the cheek-zone and in the nose. I don’t usually have breakouts, but sometimes they appear (hormons… ¬¬). My colour in MAC is NC15.
I’ve tried Benefit You Rebel lite. I like it but it makes my skin shine too much :S
As I live in Spain, unforntunately there are many brands that don’t arrive here (e.g. Laura Mercier).
I hope you could give two or three options from different brands so I could manage to find al least one!
Thank you for your time and apologise for my english ¬¬
Lancome’s tinted moisturizer or Korres’ tinted moisturizer both have more matte finishes.
Thank you very much, Christine!
Hi Christine,
What do you think is the most overpriced and/or overhyped product you’ve tried? I’m thinking in terms of quality or price per ounce.
If you could improve the packaging on one item, what would it be?
Lastly, any good sulfate free shampoo/conditioner recommendations?
Hi Heather,
Wow. Hmm. I know there have been some, but I am totally blanking. Dazzleglass. Yes, I’ll go with Dazzleglass. Not SUPER amazing and $$$$$ for what you get.
I’d like to abolish pump packaging for products that should only dispense a tiny amount!
I don’t — I’ve been sticking to the same shampoo for far too long, but I think it has SLS/SLES in it.
Loreal’s Everpure line is good. A friend of mine had a Brazilian Straightener treatment and needed a sulfate free shampoo while we were on a trip. I had remembered the Eva Longoria commercials and suggested their line and she LOVED IT.
I was told at the makeup counter to use moisturizer, sunblock, then foundation, but with an online chat to use sunblock, moisturizer, then foundation. What do you think is the correct way to apply these products?
Hi Brooke,
I have always been told moisturizer, sunscreen, and then foundation.
Hi, Thank you for doing this session.
1. My seche vite dry fast top coat has thickened a bit. Can I Use usual, ordinary thinner to chage its consistency? Will that change the drying tym or effect in general?
2. Dior websites show different products in different part of the world websites. Is there anyway we can order online or contact customer service?
3. Are Guerlain meteorites worth the money? Also are they shimmery like Shimmer bricks/MSFs or fine like Dior Shimmer powder.
Hi Resham,
1.) I’ve never tried to thin out a top coat — I imagine if it’s become so thick, it’s probably worth a shot, though.
2.) As far as I know, you can’t buy from websites out of your country most of the time. You might be better off finding an international department store that would let you order.
3.) I really like them – they are fine like Dior SkinShimmers.
Adding thinnger shouldn’t change the consistency your SV. SV has a tendency to thicken though, so I would probably order another one myself (since it’s an inevitable thing).
If you don’t want to buy a new bottle of Seche Vite, you can order Seche Restore instead, since it’s meant specifically to think out Seche Vite and Seche Clear. 🙂
Hi Christine 🙂
I am about NW10ish maybe lighter and I have very light blonde hair and light Blue eyes, I would love for you to recommend me some lipsticks, eyeshadows, Lipglosses, and blushes from brands like Paul & Joe, Bobbi Brown,Makeup Forever and Guerlain 🙂 Thank you so much if you ever get to mine!
Also for recommendation I have very sensitive, acne prone, Dry skin.
Thanks so much…… again, lol
Megan
Lipsticks/Glosses: Bobbi Brown Pink Creamy Lip Color, Make Up For Ever, Make Up For Ever #7 Glossy Ful Couleur, Guerlain Guerlinade
Blushes: Guerlain #3 Blush Eclat
Eyeshadows: Bobbi Brown Bone, Naked, Black Plum, Tan
Hi Christine,
1) I’m going to be a freshman in high school this year, and I was wondering what kind of makeup you would recommend? I’m thinking about getting the Select Cover & MSFN because of all the blotchy redness on my face(I’m an NC35 in foundation, and NW25 for concealer). I’m not really interested in actual foundation either, maybe just a powder or a tinted moisturizer 🙂
2) I remember asking you what eye shadow I should get as my first, and I have All That Glitters. I got an empty quad, too, and I was wondering what colors I can use for the rest?
3)Do you have any recommendations for some nude lip colors I can wear to school? I’ve been looking into maybe Angel or Viva Glam Gaga?
Thanks! 🙂
Congrats, Eunbee!
1.) I would really go for a lighter look — not too much. I think MSFN would be great for something lightweight. Tinted Moisturizer would also work well 🙂 I recommend Kiehl’s or Korres for tinted moisturizer.
2.) You could fill it with Soft Brown, Ricepaper, and Bronze.
3.) Hue or Angel for sure!!
Thanks, Christine! I think I’ll go pick those up with my graduation money and start practicing so I don’t look like a madwomen at school! 🙂
Congrats again 🙂
I was wondering if you know of any colors in the MAC permanent eyeshadow line that are similar to these three Urban Decay deluxe shadow colors: Adore, Heat, and Sting. (If MAC has similar colors, I’d rather just buy them because they’re less expensive than the UD deluxe shadows!)
Maybe… Adore = Deep Truth; Heat = Coppering; but I don’t know if there’s one for Sting
if i may add, i think the closest to sting in the mac line is cranberry, but it’s still not that good of a match.
Hi Christine,
Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions! So let me start out by saying I am very fair with light brown/golden-y hair. I have green eyes with some hazel. My lips are pretty pigmented and my teeth are dreadfully yellow (its genetic 🙁 ) I prefer MAC cosmetics for your recommendations because I am a teenager and I am not old enough for a real job yet. I wanted to know if you could recommend a natural lipstick and gloss that could work well for my situation. please no shimmer or glitter in the lipstick or gloss, because that always seems to bring attention to my ugly teeth. Really glossy/shiny finishes also tend to do that and make me look like I am wearing too much makeup and it looks dirty. Also, could you recommend a blush that is matte and natural? and one or two eyeshadows that look natural? I am going for that no-makeup makeup look. Sorry if this is a hard question! Oh and also if this matters I have silver braces (Can you tell my teeth are kinda screwed up?) and I don’t have any issues with acne or breakouts. Thank you so much!
Hi Chloe,
For a lipstick, I think you’d like Angel or Shy Girl — they’re softer, lighter shades without shimmer/glitter. For a lip gloss, you could try Ample Pink plushglass!
For a blush that’s matte and natural, try Peaches. Eyeshadow-wise, something like Vanilla or Shroom all over the lid with a matte brown like Soft Brown would work really well.
I had braces for 10 years — don’t sweat it. Don’t let it get you down or worry about whether you can wear this color or that with it. Seriously! It’s not worth it.
Hi Chloe,
I have very pigmented lips too. MAC Syrup is my go-to shade as it is nearly an exact match to my lips, so very natural. I use Ample Pink Plushglass on top. :0)
Hi Christine!
What are your MUST HAVE MUFE eyeshadows?
Also, I currently have all the blue toned Aqua eyes liners but could you recommend other MUST BUYS for my dark brown eyes?
Thanks!
Check out this post: http://www.temptalia.com/make-up-for-ever-brand-overview-thoughts
Try the gold Aqua Eyes!
🙂
I love this topic! Thank you so much for this! I’m a nw20, blond and green eyes and i’m looking for a neutral pink yellow undertone lipstick from mac. Could you help me please ?is there a mac dupe for mac plink! lipstick ? I heard they don’t gonna sell it anymore :(, I love your blog btw!
Bombshell or Sweetie, though nearly as just right for a neutral pink with yellow undertones by MAC, as MAC doesn’t really make any ones in the permanent line 🙁 I can’t think of a great dupe for Plink!
Thanks, Katleen!
Stupid question, but how do you find your skin tone in terms of N____? Is that according to the MAC brand?
NC/NW = MAC lingo. NC = warm tones, NW = cool tones. The number signifies your shade – 15 is the lightest MAC makes (but some will say NC10 to indicate they’re lighter than the lightest MAC shade) and 55 is the darkest MAC makes.
Thank you for answering all these questions:)
Hi Christine
I have pretty mild acne, only getting a blemish one, maybe 2 times a week. I also have insanely dry skin. I know not to use products to treat acne, and I don’t, so I don’t know the cause of my dry skin. I need a concealer that will cover, without really enhancing my dry skin. I have tried the Clinique advanced concealer, and I am using this at the moment, but I don’t love it. Reccomendations?
Thanks!
What moisturizer are you using? Your skin might not be using the right products, which may be causing it.
I would suggest MAC’s Moisturecover – it has a great creamy, liquid feel so it shouldn’t accentuate dry skin.
im using rare minerals moisturizer, which has improved how dry my skin is a lot. do you have any you really love?
For really dry skin, I’ve liked Clinique Maximum Hydrator, MAC Moisturelush, NARS Aqua Gel!
Hey Christine,
I have been looking for that great pink blush that would look good on my NW15 freckle face. I’ve bought a MAC blush before but it’s just too neutral (Cubic) and I’m looking for something a little cheaper, maybe even drugstore. Know any good brands/colors?
For reference, I tried Milani Luminous because people said it was a Orgasm dupe but it doesn’t really show up pink on me, just shimmery.
Milani Luminous is more peach I think? Try theBalm’s Down Boy. It’s not as cheap as NYX but you get loads of product and pigmentation. It’s a very flattering and pigmented pink matte blush. (I don’t know the US prices but I know it’s a lot cheaper than MAC in my country!)
I agree, Down Boy is marvelous – relatively cheap, heaps (HEAPS!) of product in the pan, very pigmented and gorgeous on! I love it.
I think you can still get it on strawberrynet if all else fails…
I’d say NYX Angel or NYX Pinky for something pink and more affordable than MAC!
Hi Christine!
First, I love your blog, thank you so much for all of the effort! The swatches, reviews, tutorials, *everything* has been extremely helpful to me as I’ve been getting into makeup.
I have a few questions, I hope that’s all right!
For reference, I mostly work with MAC, but I’m open to other things too. I am an NC42, brown eyes, black hair, with combination skin (though more on the oily side).
– I’m going to be 26 soon, and am starting to see small lines/wrinkles under my eyes. Is there an eye treatment that you recommend? I know they can get quite pricey, and if it’s worth it I might be able to save up, but I prefer something a bit more affordable for the average college student, haha.
– Red lipsticks. Love them, but I haven’t a clue if I can even wear them without looking silly! Any recommendations?
– Lastly, I’ve had a really hard time trying to find an eyeliner that won’t budge on me. My upper lid is completely fine, but if I line my lower waterline or even the lash line, the liner migrates in the outer corners of my eyes without fail. I was recommended Smolder by MAC, but that’s by far the worst one, Urban Decay 24/7 slides on me, Shiseido’s Creme eyeliner moves… I have also tried the technique of setting it with an eyeshadow and it doesn’t work. Using a face powder to create a “barrier” also doesn’t work either! I think I’m doomed. Any help would be appreciated!!
Thank you so much for your time!
Hey Teena Marie,
1.) MAC makes the Moisturelush Eye Cream, which is very hydrating and would be suitable, I think, for early care. Olay Regenerist is a great budget-friendly anti-aging line, too.
2.) Dubonnet! VGI! You would look amazinggg.
3.) You could try to lay down translucent powder on the lash line, and then apply the eyeliner. I have heard Prestige (haven’t tried it myself) works wonders, and if not UD, then MUFE Aqua Eyes holds on better than UD (but on me they’re about the same).
Thank you so much!
Hey Christine! Thanks for taking the time to answer questions. I had a good one the other week but forgot, so if I remember I’ll post it. but for now…
I don’t really know how to do a “fresh face.” Something to make me look young and vibrant and natural. Maybe cause I has lousy color sense. My question is: What kind of eye shadows should I use for this look with a nude lip, and what kinds should I use for this look with a light pink lip? My skin is NC 15/20, dark brown hair, hazel eyes.
Hi Courtney,
For a nude lip, try a light champagne shade (like Ricepaper, Shroom, Vanilla) all over the lid, and then a matte brown color in the crease (like Soft Brown, Wedge, Brun). You can do the same eye with a light pink lip, actually, since the “fresh face” is really all about being light and natural.
Thanks! I actually own Ricepaper, Wedge, and Brun, so I’ll give them a try!
Hi Christine, thanks so much for doing this again!
I’m an NW15 and have reddish-brown hair and hazel eyes. My cheeks are pigmented in a way that’s not so fabulous. There is a rosy (ok… reddish) tone to them and I’ve got a lot of freckles plus some lingering melasma from pregnancy.
I love a pretty coral blush most days, but sometimes I think the application is just too heavy even when I use a light hand. Could it be the brush? What kind of brush would you recommend for just a light wash of color on the cheek?
Please specify if different for powder blush and cream blush. Thanks!
A stippling brush like the 187 or 188 can help give your blush a softer, more diffused look. You can always just blend it out, too. I prefer the 188 for light blush as well as cream blush!
you could also put a layer of powder over it if you’ve put it on and its too bright.
Try brushing off the excess on your hand first. Or go over your over-applied cheek with the brush you’ve used to apply foundation with (don’t put any more on, just use whatever’s left on there). Christine does this in a video, I think it’s the one with Marine Life (To The Beach). Go check it out!!
Hi Christine,
Do you think that facials are important?
<33333
I’ve only had one in my life, so from personal experience, I don’t know. I don’t think they’re so essential that you can’t go without, but they’re surely a nice luxury for those who can afford them regularly.
Does it matter? 😉 Have one anyway!
Have you tried the new foundation by Lush? I’d be interested in your review.
Not yet, sorry Basak!
Hey Başak,
I’ve tried it recently at a VIP. What you should know is, it’s not an actual foundation. You’re supposed to mix it with a moisturiser (so basically it’s a tinted moisturiser). It doesn’t provide a lot of coverage (not as much as say MAC’s Studio Moisture Tint), it’s designed more to even out your skintone. You could use it on its own as a concealer but 1) it’s not designed to be worn alone and 2) it could cake up on you – so please take that into consideration. Nice bonus: it contains a natural ingredient that acts like a sunblock. Overall, it’s a nice product but I think there are better and easier (mixing foundation with moisturiser? oldest trick in the book!) and options. You could always pass by a Lush store and they will be happy to let you try it out! 🙂
The guy at my local Lush store demonstrated it for me. He used a bit of the pink undertone with a bit of the yellow undertone. He just mixed a tiny bit with moisturizer, and put it on his inner arm. It covered all of the redness that he had in his skin, and even covered the colour from his veins.
It’s definitely something I’d try, but you should buy it in person, since you might have to mix two colours to get the right match.
hey, christine! i’m looking for a good moisturizer for day/night, something that won’t be too heavy under my primer and foundation, I have an oily t-zone and the rest of my face isn’t too dry but i’d say combination skin all together. what would you suggest?
I really like Kate Somerville Oil-Free for day or night (though I typically use it during the day), but it is on the pricier side. I also like Kiehl’s Daily Moisturizer SPF 15 for something no frills, no fuss day time moisturizer. Korres Rose Moisturizer is nice, too, for lightweight moisturizing.
What’s the best mac lipstick for my skin tone? I have long black hair, brown eyes, and I am MUFE #127, NARS powder in beach, I don’t own any MAC foundation so I wouldn’t know for that.
Thanks!
These would be nice: Bombshell, Craving, Crosswires, Plumful, Sweetie, Velvet Teddy, Viva Glam I
Awesome!! Thank you sooo much!! I don’t own any of those..so they are all going on my wish list!! YAY!!!
hey Christine-
What is your fav brush to apply a cream foundation? thoughts on duofiber?
188! Small, precise, easy to control.
Hi!
i was wondering ifyou’d know when Mac’s In The Groove will be released in Spain?
and what eyeshadow combo would you recommend for green eyes! (MAC preferably!)
As far as I know, In the Groove launches everywhere.
Try Goldmine & Bronze!
Oh! because it’s not on the Spanish Mac website’s release list!
Unfortunately, I don’t get much info for international launch times, but I know In the Groove said International: July 2010, and it didn’t have any restrictions.
In the Groove collection is already out in Sapin (since 1st July) =D
also I was at the mac counter and was talking to one of the girls about foundations, i’ve been dying to try mufe hd and she mentioned that she carries it in her kit but only used it for photos as it caked too much for everyday wear. do you find it cakes or is it perfectly fine for everyday use?
Weird – I don’t find it cakey at all. It’s a nice foundation, and I like it most for photos/videos, but would have no problem wearing it everyday. (I just switch it up and often do tinted moisturizer if I’m not wearing full makeup.)
Thought of another one…
I missed out on True Babe lipglass. Can you (or anyone else) recommend a good dupe? I don’t have a brand preference or price limit.
MAC Pink Poodle would be the closest I can think of off the top of my head…
Hey Christine thanks so much for doing one of these sessions again 🙂 They are always so much fun to read!!
For reference I’m an NC20 but more on the beige side with a bit of redness in my cheeks. I’m on the hunt for the perfect peach blush. I’ve only tried MAC’s Springsheen and Pinch O’ Peach neither of which did anything for me. Do you have any recs?
MAC Peaches!!
Thanks Christine!
Do you know of a good dupe of MAC’s Utterly Frivolous lipstick from the Fafi Collection?
Maybe Smashbox Splendid
i just love this post
first of all i have been waiting for ur reply to my mails …. but its okay i know u r busy :(:(:(
okay my quest here dear…
1. i dont own any of the chaels stuff … what top 5 are ur fav among those if i wanna go for it … any thing but ur fav ???
2. i missed stereo rose and marine life tell me good dupe for them pleaseeee ?
3. i bought mac’s studio fix pressed pdr… is it worth or waste pls ur take on it ? and the brush to use for that?
4. ur 5 good reasons for mac’s fix + to try for?
Hi Rasmi,
1.) Rouge Allure Laques, Exceptionnel Mascara, Glossimers, Rouge Allure Lipsticks, and Single Eyeshadows.
2.) Try NARS Deep Throat instead of Marine Life. You could try mixing Margin and Springsheen together.
3.) You can use the sponge that comes with it or the 191 – the 190 will work, too. It’s not bad! It’s one of their best-selling products.
4.) I couldn’t give you one, LOL. I just feel like… it’s fancy water.
I know I owe you an email, I’m sooo behind!
I love using a kabuki brush with the studio fix powder. I find it gives a more even coverage that way.
Hi Christine, thank you so much for everything you do for all us makeup newbies (and the not so newbies).
For reference I am about a NW15 maybe a little paler I have blue/grey eyes, dirty blonde/light brown hair, combination skin and freckles. I also have quite pigmented lips. Sorry if I don’t make sense when I’m attempting to explain what I’m getting at.
1. What nude/pink lipsticks would you reccomend for me? I’m looking for something that doesn’t give me corpse lips but has a fair bit of pink in it but is still sort of a nude… sorry if that doesn’t make sense.
2. What brighter lipsticks would you reccomend? Nothing neon or extremely bright but something that would brighten my face up a little
3. What white nail polish would you reccomend for the use of layering under sheer polishes to make the sheers a little more opaque?
And ugh, there was one other question but I’ve completely forgotten what it was! Haha I’ll just have to come back and ask it when I remember I guesss. Thanks Christine!!!
Hi Sara,
1.) Angel, Hue, Shy Girl
2.) Ravishing, Sweetie, Speed Dial, Plumful
3.) I don’t have any specific shade, but I’d probably go for something in China Glaze’s lineup. 🙂
Thank you Christine!!
Hey Christine,
I’ve never tried higher end make up products like Dior and Chanel, do you think MAC is just as good or better, or are the higher end products extremely better?
And also, what is your favorite type of lip gloss from MAC? (super glass, cream sheen glass, etc.)
Hi Kelly,
Some products are better, some are worse, some are the same. It just depends on the product and shade–but even more on what you’re looking for. I don’t think a $60 lipstick is worth $40 more than a $20 one by any means — you are paying a lot for the name when you buy designer/luxury brands.
Lipglass is my fave!
Hi,
Um, i need you to recommend me some foundation because my skin is very very oily. Even if i don’t have makeup it is oily. So i need a foundation that is light but also doesn’t make my skin oily. Please help me! I’ve tried a lot of foundations and none of them seem to work. I also need a good scrub for my face so that it removes the shine, oil, and black heads.
Thanks
Hi Helen,
What is your skincare routine? Are you exfoliating and using moisturizer? Make sure you’re doing both! 🙂
A gentle scrub like Kiehl’s Rare Earth Daily Cleanser works really well for everyday cleansing and exfoliating. For a foundation, something like MAC Studio Fix Fluid or Make Up For Ever Mat+ Velvet.
Hi Christine,
Your pictures always look so amazing! What kind of camera and lighting do you use. I can never get the eyeshadow colors to show up as vibrantly as you can.
I use a Nikon D90 and natural light through the window!
How would you clean makeup if you received it from makeup alley swap?
If it’s powder, you can spritz with alcohol and then wipe down with a paper towel. If it’s liquid/cream, there’s not much you can do. If it’s a lipstick, you can dip it in alcohol.
(Very good question and definitely post-worthy *coughs*.)
Hi Christine,
How are you doing? I’m in India and Art Supplies collection just launched here. I picked up Black Line pearlglide liner, thanks to your swatches, I had asked MAC to reserve it for me 🙂
I love it but at the end of the day I can see some stray glitter below my eyes. Is there any way to prevent this?
I’m using just the liner and no other product.
Thanks!!
Have you tried patting a little eyeshadow or translucent powder on the lower lash line?
Hey again Christine! I wanted to know your recommendation for a highlighter for my light-medium warm skin, that has a very natural look and finish? I just want a product easy to work with to give me the most natural of glows. Any price!
I loveeee Dior Amber Diamond!!
Hi Christine,
I absolutely love your blog! It is actually the only beauty blog that I read regularly so well done and keep up the good work!
Now my question: I bought my first MAC Paint Pot (in Fresco Rose) last weekend. I have been testing it for the last couple of days in different configurations (first on my usual eyeshadow base, Eye Primer from Elizabeth Arden, and today on the same base but also set with my loose powder) and I’m slightly disappointed. I was hoping that MAC’s paint pots could replace my eyeshadow base step in my make-up routine but both days my eyeshadow creased after approx. 7 hours. Was I expecting too much from it? Or maybe I’m not applying it the right way – I used a brush rather than my finger. I will keep testing it e.g. on bare skin but have you got any advice? Or certaing colours or finishes less prone to crease. I’m tempted to try another colour in brown/neutral as these are my favourite colours for eye make-up but it is worth?
Are you applying too much? Sometimes it’s a matter of finding that right combo! I haven’t had any issues with Paint Pots creasing on me, but I know there are a few who have issues with more creasing.
Hi Christine,
First off thank you for taking the time to answer my question. I am Hispanic with Medium skin tone and dark brown hair. I have tried all different kinds of foundations trying to match my skin tone which also has some redness to it. I have started wearing Laura Mercier tinted moisture and secret camouflage in SC-3, I was wondering if you could recommend any foundation or concealer that feels and looks natural and might reduce redness. Also I work nights and my schedule is all over the place, do you know any good under-eye products to hide or reduce darkness? (I have tried Ohh La Lift)
THANX
Hi Jen,
Clinique’s Redness Solution line is pretty good for concealing and helping with the redness without being too heavy.
For under eye, I like MUFE Lift, theBalm Time Balm, and MAC Moisturecover.
Hi Christine,
I have purchased a mineralized skin finish and I would like to use it as a highlighter. Although I am not sure how and where to apply it. Also, what brush do you recommend to use to apply it?
Thank You!
I like it most on cheeks with the 188!
I had been using the Clarisonic brush on my face for a couple of weeks, twice a day, and it dried my skin out so much. So I stopped using it and haven’t used it in a couple of months, and I have used Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion and exfoliating a couple times a week but my skin might feel a little better but is still super dry. I’m not sure what to use to get it back to normal. I have oily skin usually. Also, did you have a nice 4th of July?
Hi Brooke,
Sometimes your skin goes through changes, too, so it might be a coincidence (but it could also not be one!). What moisturizer were you using prior to Clarisonic?
I did, thank you! How about you?
I use Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion. Mine was good too:)
Hi Christine!
I’m a NC 15 with bright blue eyes. I have darkish-brown curly hair. I love UD and MAC. I am very flexible with eye colors and I tend to use NARS deep-throat blush.
I’m generally looking for eye shadow suggestions!
Thanks,
Elyssa
MAC: All That Glitters, Amber Lights, Carbon, Da Bling, Deep Truth, Electra, Humid, Jest, Juxt, Naked Lunch, Satellite Dreams
Urban Decay: Baked, Blaze, Crash, Ecstasy, Eldorado, Flipside, Half Baked, Vert
Hey!
I was wondering what should I use to apply eyeshadow wet? Like simply water out of a spray bottle or is there something else better to use?
Thanks!
I would spritz your brush after you’ve gotten eyeshadow on it – just water or mixing medium.
I’ve actually tried that, still nothing to make me jump for joy 🙁
Thank you!
Hi Christine,
First of all would like to say u doing a grt job.I always check yur blog everyday.
I am a NC20,would like to know which Mac lipsticks and blushes wld suit me,i prefer a very natural look.
Can u recommend a good brand of foundation too.
From in the groove collection which lipsticks and MSF do u suggest.
Thanks in advance.
Hi Deepa,
Lipsticks: Ravishing, Sweetie, Shy Girl
Blushes: Peaches, Springsheen
For a foundation, it just depends on your skin type and price range. There are so many good brands out there.
I haven’t seen the entire In the Groove line, so I can’t make any recommendations.
I’ve been on the hunt for years to find something to prevent my eye shadow from creasing. I’ve tried Urban Decay Primer Potion, Too Faced Shadow Insurance, Paint Pots, Paints, nothing worked so far. The only thing I found that worked was some concealer with a Shade Stick layered over it. Any recommendations for something that shouldn’t crease? I have pretty oily skin, and so the shadow creases even with a base. Any ideas???
Hi Milessa,
Have you tried layering two of those? e.g. UDPP over a Paint Pot or a PP over a UDPP?
I tried that, but still doesn’t help 🙁 Any other suggestions you could rack your brains for? LOL
I got nothing :[
I use Painterly paint pot over my whole eye area. Then I put UD in Sin on the eyelid & crease area. My shadows don’t crease & stay put for 16+ hours, it even last through naps!
Hi,
Um, i need you to recommend me some foundation because my skin is very very oily. Even if i don’t have makeup it is oily. So i need a foundation that is light but also doesn’t make my skin oily. Please help me! I’ve tried a lot of foundations and none of them seem to work. I also need a good scrub for my face so that it removes the shine, oil, and black heads. I have light colored skin and i dont have a brand preference but i do prefer that it is not too expensive.
Thanks
Are you moisturizing/exfoliating regularly? It’s important to make sure your whole skincare routine is where it should be, too.
For a foundation, something like Korres Tinted Moisturizer could work, because it’s very lightweight and sheer, but it has a matte finish.
For a scrub, something like Kiehl’s Rare Earth Dail Cleasnser.
Hi Christine and thanks for doing this session again, one of my favorite.
I am planning to get an eyeshadow quad from dior, which quad would you recommended for me NC40 skintone? Also, I am looking for one that is neutral and in a brown color family.
Secondly, I am looking to get one of Chanel lipstick but I am looking to getting the one in MLBB and warm pink for everyday look. Can you please recommend a few.
Thank you so much for doing this Christine and I love your makeup blog, I always read your blog everyday and more than 5x a day. Keep up with the good work.
Earth Reflections is a nice one.
I’d recommend maybe Darling and Desirable!
Thank you!
I need mascara help. I wear contacts but have no problems with watery eyes or irritation. I have tried Dior (all kinds), Blinc, Maybelline, Revlon, Clinique, Sue Devitt (which made my lashes insanely long), Cover Girl, Estee Lauder, etc, etc. I have long curly lashes but I need something to darken them. I have tried a primer (Clinique) but it dried them out and you could see the white after I applied the mascara. I don’t rub my eyes or sweat but not more than an hour after application my mascara is gone and has migrated to under my eyes (darn that gravity!). Any ideas? I don’t use heavy moisturizer or eye cream before application. I use Oil of Olay and let that set in before I apply my makeup so it’s not so wet. The only mascara that didn’t run was Maybelline’s Lash by Lash but it’s been discontinued.
Hi Elizabeth,
It sounds like lashes are really long, and it’s probably just getting caught against your skin. Are you wearing waterproof at all? I would say you might need a waterproof formula.
You could also powder your eye lids to see if that helps!
I do wear waterproof and never thought that it could be getting caught against my skin. I will try the powder. Thanks!
Thanks to Temptalia, I have found my HG mascara and I think it could be yours, too: Maybelline Full n Soft Waterproof mascara in very black. it is awesome! It doesn’t run at all and it holds my curl all day. Good luck!
Full ‘n Soft is a really nice mascara! Good thinking, NeenaJ.
Hi Christine!
First off, thanks so much for doing these! I really appreciate it.
I have a medium/slightly tan/golden Asian skintone and pretty pigmented lips. What nude lipstick colors that aren’t pink toned do you think would look good for me? I like MAC’s lipsticks for their affordability, but any brand you suggest would be something I’m game to try.
Are you going to review the Burberry cosmetics line?
Thank you!
MAC Honeylove, Creme d’Nude, and Touch!
I bought a bunch from Nordstrom, I’m just waiting for it to arrive.
Hi Christine,
I want a Nars (powder-) blush for a long time, but Nars is not available in my country, that’s why I’d like to order it online, and I find it difficult to choose a color. I’m NW 20/25, and I like it to be sheer and natural, not too shimmery..
Thanks!
Love your website!
I’d recommend a shade like Dolce Vita.
Hi,
What mac concealer do you recommend to use to cover up pimples. I am a NW15 and have oily skin.
Thank You
I prefer just layering on a little extra foundations for pimples.
I love such posts!
I’m nc20 .dry skin on t zone and chin and especially nose .my cheeks are not dry but they get shiny-not oily no matter what (weather season etc)
I’ m still looking for the best foundation!I currently use mac studio sculpt which I LOVE how it settles on my cheeks but makes my dry areas look even drier!
Any recommendations?
(under 30 dollars!) I’m young (17) and I need to hide acne scarring-not anything huge but it’s still there! I would apreciate a good powder to settle everything and a couple of mac powder blushes that would look good on me (I have plum foolery and well dressed)
Thank u I love u!
Hi Leli,
Have you tried MAC Face & Body or Studio Fix Fluid? The first is on the sheerer side, and the latter is more medium coverage (which is probably more than you need), but you can sheer it out by spraying your brush with more water.
Thank you!
Hi Christine!
First off, I want to say that I LOVE your blog and that you are 100% responsible for fueling my new makeup obsession! 🙂
Ok, so I’m NC40. My favorite brands are MAC, NARS, and Benefit.
1. What’s the best liquid foundation you would recommend for me that doesn’t cost more than MAC studio fix? It’s the only product I’ve ever used for foundation and I wanna try something new.
2. I just bought my first concealer – MAC’s moisture cover – I find that it doesn’t cover up as much as I would like it to and that it wears off after a couple of hours. Any recommendations? (I mostly use the concealer for occasional breakouts, undereye coverage, and redness)
3. I want to achieve that beautiful “glow” without sparkle – what blushes/bronzers/highlighters would you suggest?
Thanks!!!! 🙂
Hi Becc,
1.) Maybe Revlon ColorStay? MAC foundation is pretty cheap relative to other high-end brands, because I would have recommended Make Up For Ever HD, but it’s like $40? I think.
2.) I apply the concealer over my foundation, blend with the 217 or 272, and then set with loose powder.
3.) Try a luminizing product like MAC Strobe Cream or MAC Strobe Liquid! 🙂 Mix it in with your moisturizer or foundation. If you want it just on cheeks, something like Benefit Sugarbomb would get you that.
How do I get that stained lip look on a budget? I’m very fair and have cool undertones. What products would you suggest?
Any super dark/pigmented lip will give you a stained look – just blot it on with your finger or apply, then kiss off on the back of your hand (prefer it over tissue). You could apply a lil’ balm and done.
If you’re in canada they sell Joe Fresh lipstains at Superstore (and loblaws i believe) – they’re $6 each. I adore them and have them in every colour! for very fair with cool undertones i’d reccommend grapefruit – a light, sheer blue-toned pink that you can layer to build to a bright pink.
Hi Christine,
I’m deeply in love with the darker brownish/taupe shade from the Jemma Kidd swivel palette (target), so I’m in search for a dupe. So far I’ve only been able to find the new shade by Trish McEvoy call guilded taupe from the nordstrom exclussive set for the anniversary sale. But I’m not about to shell out more then $90 for it, especially since I most likely won’t use the other items (with a few exceptions of course). Can you help me find a dupe for the jk eyeshadow? For referrence I’m nc25 brown eyes.
Thanks so much!
Hi Melissa,
I wish I could help you! 🙁 I have no idea what color it is.
Hi Christine,
Quick question – are you still updating the MAC database as the new collections come out and new products are added to the permanent line or did you stop updating that a while back?
We have several projects going, and I forgot how to log into this database, so we’re still working on it.
If I can not afford the expensive brushes where should I get some inexpensive ones for the time being?
EcoTools, Sonia Kashuk!
I love both SK and EcoTools. My first brushes were SK and they were perfect for learning. I’ve got more HE brushes now, but I still reach for my EcoTools first. They’re just SO SOFT. <3
Hi Christine!
How close in colour are Chanel Chalys and Genial?? Also if I have and love Rouge Cocos in Orchidee, Cambon and Chalys which ones should I get next? I’m NW10 with red hair, blue eyes so warmer colours look good but I’m pretty neutral. Thanks so much. Don’t know what I’d do without your blog and all the lemmings it creates 😉
Genial is WAY brighter. I wouldn’t compare the two to be honest… I’d vote Mademoiselle 🙂
Thank you!
Hi Christine!
First, I love your blog. It’s the first thing I read in the morning and check it many times a day!
My question is regarding concealer. I use the Select Moisture cover in NC 20 and I think it looks a bit yellowy, and I also find that it creases. Do you have any tips regarding concealer. Should I put it on before or after foundation? Do you think buying the NW shade would help the yellowness? Any tips for the creasing?
Also, I just hit pan on my favorite eyeshadow, tectonic from way back. Do you know of any dupes?
Thanks!
Hi Natalia,
If it’s too yellow, you could try NW20 instead. I put mine on after foundation, or else it just seems to get overblended and sheers out where I need it most. For creasing, try setting it with loose powder!
Sumptuous Olive would be close.
Thank you!
Hi Christine!!
Do you know any good inexpensive baby pink lipsticks? (For reference i have light/tan skin and blonde hair)
Thank you!
ps. i hope you’re enjoying your summer!! 🙂
Maybelline Warm Me Up, Napoleon Perids Havana Nights!
Hi Christine
I have Light Flush MSF, and I was wondering if it was worth getting Stereo Rose since from the pictures I have seen, they look pretty similar. Lollipop26 on youtube said Stereo Rose was similar but darker but I wanted to hear your opinion.
Thanks!
Light Flush is lighter and pinker, Stereo Rose is darker and more coral.
Hi Christine!
I love the coral trend for this spring/summer, but I am PALE, and most corals pull too orange or too bright to be wearable day to day. Do you know of any corals that might compliment my very fair skin? I think corals with more of a pink base work for me and my budget is under $15/lipstick.
My coloring: I am cool-toned but wear both cool and warm tones. I can’t wear MAC foundations, N15’s are too dark still. I am Bobbi Brown Porcelain, Revlon Ivory, etc. Most foundation ranges don’t have a shade pale enough for my skin, and I get peeved when people who are medium skin tones call themselves “fair,” because it gets confusing, lol!
Thanks!
Mindy
Hey Mindy,
You could try MAC Shy Girl or Crosswires — try Crosswires blotted LIGHTLY! Argh, Smashbox Splendid would probably be PERFECT but it’s out of your price range 🙁
hey Christine! Thanks for doing these, they’re awesome! My question is about MAC Marine Life. I bought it because I decided after it was almost all sold out that I HAD to have it, so I called around like a maniac and got what I am convinced was the very last one in the Metro Detroit area…it’s cute, I love it, but how in the world do I wear it? I usually swirl the brush in the pan to kind of mix the 2 colors, but when I put it on, people seem to think that I have a sunburn lol. I’m NW20, maybe 25 in the summer, so what do you think? Thanks!!!
Mix the two colors! You can use it lightly or blend it out with setting powder or even foundation to make it so it’sn ot so dark 🙂 You can also take more from the light pink side.
Hi Christine!!
Can you recommend some MAC lipsticks for me? I have light blonde hair, light/tan skin and blue eyes.
Thank you! 🙂
Try MAC Sweetie, Plumful, Ravishing, Shy Girl
Hi Christine, I bought the pretty baby beauty powder from Mac hello kitty collection, I find it too light to use as a blusher. How do you recommend me to use it?
As an all over powder!
Hi Christine!
Congratulations for the great job you do through your blog!
Accessing it on a daily basis is a MUST!! 😉
Regarding my questions:
1- I use MAC Studio Finish (C4, for reference), and I just got the BLOT powder pressed for touching up throughout the day (I have VERY oily skin), being recommended at a MAC store the “Medium” shade; however, when getting back home, I realised that Blot’s “Medium” shade is actually quite lighter than Studio Fix C4. I know that Blot is not supposed to really add any colour, but do you think I should have got the “Medium Dark” shade, which is probably closer to SF C4? Or it doesn’t make that much of a difference?
2- I acquired my spring season lipstick, MAC Vegas Volt – your swatches helped me to make up my mind 🙂
I am now looking for a blush with a warmer shade (my beloved one is Lancôme #02, “Rose Sable”, but it is a little too “serious” for these sunny days here in Europe, especially when I’m wearing Vegas Volt…). I was thinking of MAC “Springsheen”, but I ended-up finding it a little bit too shimmery… I am looking for a nice coral shade with a tiny little bit of shimmer. I am considering MAC’s “Peaches”, but though it doesn’t have a matte finish, it doesn’t seem to have the “sparkles” I would like it to have and I am not sure it will really work well on my cooler skin tone…
What would be your opinion regarding “Peaches”? Would you have any coral-ish blush to recommend within those lines (MAC or any other brand)?
Thank you VERY much!!
Hey Fa,
1.) Sometimes when powder comes into contact with oil, so a slightly lighter shade can work, particularly as a blot powder, actually! I would try it, see how it goes, and if it doesn’t work, exchange.
2.) Peaches!! I was going to recommend that as soon as I started reading your question!
Thanks!
Hi Christine!
I have never worn bronzer on my face and don’t intend to start, but my poor, ghostly white legs are crying out for some kind of healthy tint. I’ve tried the Sally Hansen spray-on stuff, but it’s streaky and doesn’t contain much product. I also tried a Wet ‘n Wild powder bronzer, but all it did was make my legs look red (fake sunburn 😉 ). Do you know of any product that would give my legs a little healthy color (not a lot–I don’t want there to be *too* much of a disconnect between my NW20 face and my legs) and also not stain fabric (like clothing or upholstery)? I’d prefer something cheap, but if there isn’t anything but more expensive products, okay.
Also–really dumb question–when you have a giveaway, do you accept entries once a day, or only once?
Thanks!
I like L’Oreal’s Sunless Sublime! It’s a really great, gradual everyday lotion 🙂
Just once!
Hi Christine,
For reference I’m NC42, dark brown hair/eyes
– What do you think of Nars lipgloss? They’re about $28 CAD and I’m wondering if they are worth the money. I’m looking at Chihuahua or Giza in particular.
– What would work better as a neutral blush for me, Nars Madly or Luster?
– If I could only get one blush for In the Groove, would it be Band of Roses or New Vibe?
– What is a better blush brush, the 116 or the 129?
Thank you!
Hi Bits,
1.) I like them, but they’re pretty pricey. They’re a little thin, and I do like my gloss a bit thicker, so they’re not my personal favorite. I think if you find the right shade, they can be worth it.
2.) Madly!
3.) Probably Band of Roses
4.) 116
hi!
could you please tell me which mac cream color base most closely matches the shade and glow of benefit’s high beam?
thanks 🙂
Probably Luna!
Hey Christine, my questions are:
1: How do you choose what makeup to wear for a day?
2: Do you watch any beauty gurus on youtube? If so, Who?
3: How can you tell if you are cool or warm? Some people say the veins on your wrist but I can’t tell. Sorry it’s a little long, Thnx!
Hi Victoria,
1.) I generally choose based on what I’m currently testing out or else what colors I “feel” like that day.
2.) Not really. If I do, I watch Pursebuzz, Petrilude, EnkoreMakeup, and Dustin Hunter. I’m not really a video tutorial kind of person. I’ve always liked photos better. I think I find it a lot faster that way.
3.) Look at the veins on the underside of your forearm; if they’re blue, you’re cool, if they’re green, you’re warm. If you can’t really tell, you may be neutral 🙂
Dear Christine,
I have naturally pigmented lips, to the point that purplish veins can be seen when looking closely. The skin on my lips are really that thin, and often an ugly, dark, berryish color, and slightly brownish on the edge.
I’m NC15 and can’t find a good lip base that covers my pigmented lips before applying lipglosses and lipsticks. I tried Mac lip erase but it’s too dry even if I have lip balm applied first. I tried Mac Myth lipstick – but it only works when I top it with lipgloss. So far I can’t find a lip base that can be used before lipstick. I’m not a fan of lip pencils/liners either. Do you know any product that neutralizes lip color and is moisturizing enough?
Thank you so much for your hard work!
Hi Mewwy,
Lip liners would be the least drying/off-feeling, but after that, I’d recommend any concealer or foundation. Sometimes I just pat on a little foundation on my lips and blend out with my fingertips.
Hi Christine! I have 2 questions. I have medium olive complexion (very yellow undertones) and I have dark circles that I want to correct & cover up. Sleep & drinking lots of water doesn’t seem to help.
1) Do you know of a good eye cream? (drugstore or department store)
2) Do you know of a good concealer that doesn’t crease on oily skin? Or is there a technique I can use to keep it from creasing? (Concealers I’ve tried & didn’t like: The Balm Time Balm, Benefit Erase Paste, Laura Mercier Secret Concealer, MUFE 5 Camouflage Palette – No. 1, MAC Studio Sculpt)
Hi,
1.) Olay Regenerist or Lancome.
2.) A lot of the concealers you tried are definitely creamier, thicker ones. Have you tried using a fluffy brush like the 217 or 272 to blend it into skin, and then pat with loose setting powder?
Thanks Christine! Can’t wait to try that! 🙂
Hi!
First of all, thanks for discussing the horrors of dimethicone. I feel like I finally have a handle on my break outs and I have you to thank for that! Any dimethicone-free moisturizers you can recommend? Brand/price doesn’t really matter.
Also, I really love corally pink lipstick but I’m cool toned, blonde and very fair. I’m partial to MAC but I’m open to anything. Anything come to mind?
Hi Michelle,
I really liked Chanel’s Ultra Lift, and I am pretty sure it didn’t have dimethicone in it. I also like Kate Somerville’s oil-free!
Smashbox Splendid I think would be pretty!
I’m in love with Smashbox lipstick, I’ll definitely check that out! Thanks!
Hi Christine:
I was wondering what a good eyeshadow primer would be for oily lids. like i mean CRAZY oily. Right now i thinly layer UDPP with painterly paintpot over top and set with a nude shadow (i normaly wear nude e/s with liner a la angelina jolie), and i’m still creasing by lunch-ish. any reccommendations would be great.
Try dusting your lids with translucent powder a few minutes prior to applying eyeshadow and primer – see if that helps at all! Also, have you tried the PP first, then UDPP on top?
Hi
I have hazel eyes and a very fair skintone. What would be good eye/blush/lip combos? I cant wear purples due to allergies. Thanks
You could wear something like MAC All That Glitters on the lid, Soft Brown on the outer lid, and Satin Taupe in the crease, and then pair that with Peaches blush and Nyphette lipglass.
Hi Christine!
I would like to know what other colours you’d recommend for my colouring. I am Chinese, with blackish-brown hair and brown eyes. I wear MAC Medium Plus Mineralize Skinfinish, And MAC NC300 Hyper Real Foundation. Usually I like to wear MAC Syrup or Sweetie lipstick but would like to branch out! Can you please recommend eyeshadows, cheeks, and lips for a neutral everyday look and a fun look? Thanks!
Hi Maowism,
I’d recommend…
Eyes: Goldmine, Patina, Bronze, Sumptuous Olive
Lips: Crosswires, Ravishing, Girl About Town
Cheeks: Margin, Peacches
Thanks! Will try them soon =D
<3 <3 <3!!!
Hi Christine,
I’ve been having a lot of difficulty with my combo/acne-prone skin breaking out lately. My current routine is to use a bonzoyl peroxide cleanser and Clinique dramatically different gel moisturizer in the morning and Philosophy purity cleanser at night. I was using Clinique moisture surge as an evening moisturizer, but it seemed to make my skin breakout. I use a facial exfoliator two to three times a week and spot treat with a 10% bonzyol peroxide cream. Is there something missing or doing wrong?
I know that’s a more dermatology question, so as far as cosmetics, can you recommend a foundation that provides medium to full coverage without feeling heavy? I live in a tropical environment so makeup is prone to melting off. My skintone is NC25-30 in MAC. I’d love to one day get to the point where I don’t need foundation..
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my questions and for all you do for Temptalia. The website is such a wonderful resource, and I really value your honest and sincere opinions.
The only thing I can think of is that the cleanser may be drying out your skin and exacerbating any issues there. Do you think that perhaps it’s the DDGM that’s causing breakouts? Have you swapped it out for something else? I think the cleansers should be OK, since they’re really not on your skin for long.
Make Up For Ever Mat+ Velvet has pretty good coverage and doesn’t feel TOO heavy. Estee Lauder Double Wear is some of the most full coverage stuff, and they *do* have Double Wear Light, which is definitely lighter.
Thank you so much! 🙂
Hi Christine!! I don’t know what I would do without your website!
I don’t know what my exact skin color is. I can tell you i am cool with pink undertones and I have brown hair and blue eyes and light skin.I got lazy day from ttb collection and it just doesnt’ look right.I just ordered jazzed today and I hope it works for me. I wanted to know what other mac lipsticks would be the best for my complexion?
Thank you soo much for taking such good care of your webpage you do the best job of anyone out there:)
Hey Nikki,
You could try Sweetie, Plumful, Shy Girl, and Creme Cup!
Thank you!!
Hey Christine!
Have you used Fyrinnae loose eyeshadows before? If not, do you plan to review them?
Nope, I haven’t. No plans to at this time!
Hey Christine,
I don’t really like the feel of foundation, but I do want to cover my dark circles/ other discolorations. What would be a good concealer to wear alone? I have oily skin on my nose, but dry, somewhat flaky skin everywhere else. I also have a lot of peachfuzz on my face so I’m also looking for a powder to set the concealer that won’t emphasize my hair/ flaky skin.
Thanks!
Hey Lana,
Something like MAC Select Cover or Moisturecover – a concealer that’s liquid in form, because it’ll be easier to blend out and look natural.
Always spritz water after you’ve set your makeup, because it can help give it that finished look without being powdery (which can often be the result of the powder on peach fuzz!).
Hi Christine and Temptalia readers! I’m new to makeup and wanted to know some foundations and blushes you’d recommend.
My skin is NC20 as matched by two different MAC MUAs. I have some acne on my chin and redness around my nose. I would say I have combination skin, which is more oily around my T-zone (especially now that it’s summer!) and drier between my eyebrows, around my nose, and on my lids during the winter. None of this is too severe, though. I’m 16, so I don’t have any fine lines or wrinkles that I need to hide — thank goodness!
I’d like to know if you have any foundation and blush recommendations! I’m looking for things that will provide a natural look, nothing that will stand out too much. MAC or any brand that can be bought at Sephora would be great.
Thank you so much! I really appreciate your help 🙂
Hey Kaylee,
Given your age, I would say MAC Studio Tint or Face & Body – both lighter in coverage and lightweight! 🙂
Hi Christine! I love your blog 🙂
Well, I usually buy drugstore makeup, and I have a few higher-end brands (MUFE, Bobbi Brown, Clinique, Lancome).. I sort’ve want to try some MAC products (not liquid foundation or lipgloss).. so I was wondering what are some products that you recommend I start out with? Thank you so much!! 🙂
Oh and what do you think of their mineralized skinfinish natural?
Hi Claudia,
I’d suggest their eyeshadows & lipsticks – I think they do both very, very well. 🙂 They have a great permanent line for both, too! MSFN breaks me out, but I really liked it when I was using it, lol!
Hi Christine,
I absolutely love your blog and find myself checking it twice a day to get the updated information. I have been in love with the MAC ember glow lipglass and fresh salmon lipstick from the Spring Colour line. Do you know of any dupes for those two colors.
I forgot I have another question about eyeliner. I have been using pencil and wanted to dive in and try liquid and/or gel. What do you recommend for beginners?
I’d definitely suggest gel over liquid! I like MAC Fluidline a lot!
Hi Channon,
I can’t think of any great dupes 🙁 I thought maybe Satin Peach by Dior would work, but I don’t think so. For Fresh Salmon, Crosswires is the only one that strikes me but it’s more like 70% there.
Hi Christine
I am roughly NW47, which of the In the Groove MSFs would work best for my skintone…also, could u recommend a good high end
and low end moisturizer with SPF for oily skin.
Thanks a lot
Robin
Hi Robin,
Stereo Rose & Petticoat!
High-end: Shiseido SPF 55+ Lotion
Drugstore: Olay SPF 30!
I was wondering, do you have back-ups/extras in your make-up collection? You have so many products already but do you ever find stuff you get the urge to stock up on (super hyped limited edition products)? I always think to myself, by the time I run out of this, hopefully I will be hooked on another piece of awesomeness.
Also, what do you think of Chanel Vitalumiere foundation…and Clarins products??? I don’t see many Clarins reviews, but I actually really like their stuff although they’re definitely not trendy but anyway, tell me what you think!
Very, very rarely. Most of the backups I have (which are very few – maybe less than 5 products have backups) I got before I started blogging or blogging seriously. The only recent backup I purchased was Guerlain’s Gems lipstick, which was a perfect coral for me. I just remind myself that I’m not going to finish anything (lol) and something new always comes along.
I haven’t tried Chanel’s foundation, but I like Clarins. I think it’s a sleeper brand – not everything blows me away, but I loved their eyeshadow palette from summer.
Hi Christine:
Do you have any information about professional/salon spray tans?
I haven’t had much luck with self tanners at home. Something in them makes my skin smell terrible, so I have stopped using them.
Do you know if salon spray tans also cause a smell? Does the colour rub off on your clothes?
Any info you have would be appreciated.
Hi Joanna,
Unfortunately, I don’t 🙁 I have never had it ton (I tan very, very easily even with SPF). Given all the Jersey Shore I watched, I don’t think it must rub off on clothes too much, but it seems like an expensive habit.
hey christine, thanks for doing this!
my skintone is on the dark side of light.. id say nw20-25 usually, what would be a fresh, girly everyday pink lipstick from mac for my face (my skintone is on the warm side)as well as a nice nude one.
Try Bombshell or Sweetie for something on the warmer side; Angel or Shy Girl for something more pinky-nude.
Hi Christine ,
I just want to thank you again for doing another Ask session! They are so incredibly helpful, even if I don’t have questions because I can stroll through pages upon pages of other people’s questions and your suggestions!
I am one eyeshadow short of filling a neutral-ish palette. I have incorporated both MAC and UD colors so I was hoping you could help me out and determine which eyeshadow (preferably MAC) would best round off the palette! I have as follows: Mylar, All that Glitters, Chopper (UD), Tempting, Woodwinked, Smog (UD), Mulch, Twice Baked (UD), Satin Taupe, Roach (UD), Smoke and Diamonds, Knight Divine, Oil Slick (UD), and Carbon.
I’m thinking something more along the lines of a matte shade since all of mine are mostly satiny/glittery.
Thanks again!
Hi Vanessa,
SOFT BROWN!!!!!! by MAC. It’s a must-have!
I’m looking for a foundation/base that is lightweight, has light/sheer coverage, but more than a tinted moisturizer. I’m only 21 so I don’t need to worry about using an anti aging foundation. I currently use Bare Minerals original formula in golden light, but I’m beginning to find it too powdery. I need something long lasting, natural looking and for dry combination skin.
Also- which brand of eye shadow do you find longest lasting? I’m tired of mine showing oil in my crease. Do you recommend a specific palette or range of colors for a neutral, office appropriate eye?
Thanks! Looking forward to hearing from you!
MAC Face & Body or Make Up For Ever Face & Body! 🙂
I actually don’t have any issues with eyeshadows lasting overall — a good base seems to make most brands last all day for me. I
I like neutrals and sometimes mix it up with a little green or plum for a touch of color.
thanks so much! i’m headed to my sephora to check out the MUFE product!
Hey Christine!
This is so awesome of you to do, I really appreciate it 🙂
I guess I kind of have a couple questions.. I am looking for a new foundation. I have never really tried any higher end foundations because I don’t have any stores near me so that I can be matched. The only drug store foundation I have found so far that I like is the Revlon Colorstay foundtion in “Buff”.. but I find that after wearing it all day my face starts to smell funny! I love that it is full coverage and matches my skin almost perfectly. What would you recommend I try? (I’m guessing I would probably be around a NC20, but not 100% sure). I also don’t like my foundation to be really dewy.
One problem I have is that I find my forehead and around my eyebrowns gets really dry, and my nose can be a little oily. What do I do to help this? Do I put something under my foundation, if so what? Or do I just use a moisturizer at night on my face (what would you recommend for that?) And what can I do to make my nose not oily?
Anyways thank you so much, I hope my questions are clear!
Oh another thing I wanted to ask.. I don’t have a MAC store anywhere near me, so I was going to send a few sets of B2M empties in online, I was wondering do you know if I can request limited edition lipsticks (like the ones that just came out with the In the Groove collection, or do they have to be from the perm line?) Thanks again for all your help!!)
I have no idea — I have never sent mine in to online before, but I know in-store I’ve done it for LEs.
Hi Ashley,
I would recommend MAC Studio Fix Fluid, Make Up For Ever Mat+ Velvet, or Make Up For Ever HD! 🙂
I would use moisturizer AM and PM – don’t limit it to just once! Sometimes we are just oily in certain places, dry in others. It’s annoying, but I’m not sure there’s much to do other than keeping up with a skincare regimen.
Hi Christine,
I have a problem with mascara flaking on me and causing little black flecks under my eyes which eventually turn into black smudges and it looks like I got punched in the face a couple times. I have tried MAC Plushlash (which i absolutely love) and DiorShow Waterproof, and though I really love the effect that both give, they both flake like crazy on me! Is there something I can do to stop my mascara from flaking? Do you have any suggestions of mascara that does not flake?
Thanks!
Hey Kathryn,
You might have to switch mascaras 🙁 Sometimes mascaras that are harder/drier that don’t have a lot of flex or give can cause flaking. It may also be too many coats or not enough combing through the lashes after application (to ensure defined, separated lashes) that could be causing the flaking.
Maybelline Full ‘n Soft has a very soft feel and shouldn’t flake.
Hey Christine, I have a few questions!
1. What are your favorite drugstore makeup (if any)?
2. Would a dusty rose (slightly on the lighter side) blush look good/suit a warm toned skin? Can you recommend any?
3. Do you know of any methods to make a dry foundation less dry? (other than piling on moisturizer prior to application)
4. Do you wear your makeup looks that are posted here out or is it just for the blog? Or,–what is your normal everyday makeup look?
5. Can you recommend a blush similar to the one this girl has on? [pic link] http://yutakis.files.wordpress.com/2010/01/angela-baby-2-ss-2009-campaign.jpg
Thanks so much!
Hi Kat,
1.) Mostly just a few drugstore eyeliners and mascaras. I like Milani and NYX amongst drugstore brands the most, overall, but each brand does seem to offer some nice pieces. L’Oreal HIP is a nice line, but it’s very pricey if you don’t catch it on sale.
2.) Blushbaby or Breath o’ Plum!
3.) I spray water on the brush I’m using, which helps to keep it less dry.
4.) Yes, I definitely do! I don’t always, since I do some looks late at night, so then I’m not going anywhere 😛
5.) Hmm, maybe Illamasqua Hussy or NARS Gilda/Gina.
Hey,
I just have the hardest trouble with tinted moisturizer/foundation. My forehead is about 3 shades darker than my face (yes, 3 shades!) Whenever I fine the “perfect” match for my face, it looks incredibly gray, ashy, and unnatural on my forehead. I’ve even tried to add bronzer around the temples like many artists I’ve talked to recommend but it still looks strange. When I get a shade that matches my forehead, it looks unnatural and WAY too dark for the rest of my face.
Also, my face is a lot lighter than my neck. I know that your face and neck should match but it looks so odd when I wear a darker foundation -my face looks so dark!
This little dilemma has made me give up on foundation. It’s too hard! =P If you have any suggestions, please let me know.
Also, I really don’t need a thick foundation (I prefer tinted moisturizer) because I don’t have skin troubles (acne, etc.) except for the tone uneveness (the forehead and the rest of my face.) Thanks!
Hey Kali,
You might want to “meet in the middle,” LOL! Like instead of matching to your face or forehead or neck… meet in the middle and then take it up to the forehead and past the jawline, about mid-neck. I think something like Laura Mercier, which is a sheerer tinted moisturizer, could work.
Hi! I find that I have dry and cracked lips A LOT! I usually will put a balm on my lips before I apply lipstick so they don’t look dry and cracked but I sometimes find that it still shows up through my lipstick. I’ve only tried the lip exfoliator from the body shop but that doesn’t do much. Is there anything you can reccomend? I’ve heard the MAC and Korres lip exfoliators/balms are good. Thanks!
I loveeee Sara Happ’s Lip Scrub!! My favorite so far. Jack Black Lip Balm is my favorite balm.
Hi Christine,
This is my second question and I apologize for not including it when I asked my first question. I am not sure if you are a pro with perfume like you are with makeup, but perfumes (like Chanel Chance and Coco Mademoiselle) don’t seem to last on me at all( two hours and I can’t smell them anymore!), and for the price I’m paying I find it very disappointing. Do you have any tips to make perfume last longer?
Thanks!
Hey Kathryn,
When or where are you spraying? It’s best to apply after a shower/moisturizing and onto the pulse points (like wrists, neck). You can also layer – scented body wash/lotion and the same scent on top.
I’m looking for a perfume that’s somewhat sexy, but also sweet and will attract guys. I’m a teen, so I don’t want anything too old, but I don’t want a sugary sweet scent. Any recommendations?
Dior Addict or Kenzo Amour!
I have somewhat bright blue eyes, fair skin, but tan at the moment, and medium brown hair with highlights. What would be a bright eyeliner color that doesn’t take the focus off of my eyes but is still fun? thanks
Ooh, Urban Decay Flipside or Deviant!
Do you know of ANY dupes for Mac Lavender Whip, Blooming Lovely, or Fashion Mews, that I could purchase in Canada?! I’ve been looking EVERYWHERE for a lavender/lilac lipstick/gloss.
MAC VG Gaga is similar.
Well I am an NC45 and my skin is oily I love neutrals and purples but I’m a little afraid of bright colors but I see your not I want to transition and use some colors like green or teal any ideas? Any suggestions for blush, lipstick, msfs. Just about anything I buy urban decay mac drugstore brands nyx. I’m still new to the makeup scene so I’m still working on getting my eyemakeup to look awesome, I have acne scars they’re not horrific and some acne aswell could I use a tinted mousterizer? Any suggestions for a foundation for a newbie like me? Sorry for all the questions I love your site long time reader<3 thanks a bunch christine
Hey Lizard,
OMG! Your skin was MADE for color!!
You have to try some greens. I’d suggest something like Juxt on the lid, Humid on the outer lid, and Sumptuous Olive in the crease! For teal, try Gorgeous Gold on the lid, Shimmermoss in the outer lid/crease, and maybe a little bit of Plumage. Ahhh, yes!!
For a tinted moisturizer, I suggest Kiehl’s or Korres’!
Thank you!
i was on my phone and i just realized that i typed everything i typed before like 2 seconds ago because i thought my phone didnt send it through and my brother was on the computer and you didnt answer my comment under its diferent 🙁 but i understand you have a lot to do so i will wait for a response 🙂
my eyes are darkdark brown will that help them stand out more?
would i go under cool or warm in the suggestion page you had up before for dark skinned people im guessing cool since im an nc45 haha but just to make sure
Hi Lizard,
I replied to your comment, actually! 🙂 I will answer the rest of your Qs soon.
Try pairing them with golds, greens, and plums.
If you are NC45, then you would be warm!
theres another comment i left because i was buzzing with questions and possible tips haha
youre such a wonderful lovely person im so glad you have a blog
oh btw how is mellan?
He is great, thank you for asking 🙂
Hey Christine!
-I love working with new methods of application for my eye makeup. I tend to keep it with a light color on the lid and put a darker one in the crease, but it gets boring after a while even when I change up the colors! Do you know of anywhere that has a plethora of eye shadow templates?
-I just got the 239 brush, and Ive had the 226 that I use mostly for eye liner with the paintpots, brows, and maybe a little bit in the crease, but I want some brushes that will let me be a little more creative and precise. Any suggestions?
-How often do you clean your brushes? With the 226 I rinse it off with soap and water every time I use it because the paintpots are so thick. I used the 239 on Saturday when I was doing my makeup to go out and it was frustrating washing it 3-4 times after switching colors (I was wearing black and white eyeshadow) and I was afraid to touch it up because I didnt want to wash the brush again.
Its funny I thought I had it all down packed as far as application goes and then I found your blog and I feel like Im learning to walk again! lol
ahh! 266, not 226! lol
Hey Rebecca,
I’d check out those who do avant garde looks (Petrilude on YT is always a good choice!) — you can kind of see how they place the color for something a little more off the wall, but you can just tone down the color combo or the severity of the shape, for something more everyday.
I love the 208 for eyeliner! AMazinggg.
I wash my brushes after every use. I have 5 239s, though :O
Hi Christine
I love your website and appreciate you taking the time to answer our questions.
I am a NW20 with a serious MAC addition. I have brown eyes and am mostly interested in neutral eyeshadow looks that can be easily adjusted for day and night wear.
Can you suggest several must-have colors in browns, pinks, purples, greens and greys to incorporate into my collection?
Also, I’ve avoided pigments to date because I am afraid of them looking to glittery/shimmery. Do you have any recommendations for a beginner?
Browns: Soft Brown, Satin Taupe, Shroom
Pinks: Pink Freeze, Plum Dressing
Purples: Parfait Amour, Shadowy Lady, Digit
Greens: Juxt, Humid
Grays: Print
Hmm! You should try Naked 🙂
Hey Christine,
I bought MAC’s select moisturecover today for my undereye circles, but the MUA gave me a NC15 shade, which leaves me confused. First of all, I’ve heard that you should use NW shades for undereye circles and second of all, my foundation & powder are NW. I left the box unopened, do you think I can return it if it’s a missmatch?
I can’t really figure out what undertone my skin has. The MUA at MAC has matched me with NW15, so I guess that means I have pink undertones? I know you can look at your inner arm veins, but mine are greenish & blue-ish at the same time.
I asked the MUA today, but she said that I’m quite pale so that NC, cool tones, match me. This confused me, because other MAC MUA’s matched me with NW and I thought these could be equally pale? I also thought that NC meant warm undertones. I’m rather shy, so I didn’t dare to tell her that. I also think that MAC MUA know their stuff, hence the confusement.
Thanks a lot for your time. You’re a star! You’re my go-to reference for beauty things.
P.S.: I bought the 109 today! I’m itching to try it out!
A lot of times you use the opposite of your foundation – so you’d use NC for NW foundation, NW for NC foundations (which is why mine is NW). Sometimes yellower tones can counteract the undereye (though it’s really more peach tones), so that might be why NW is picked over NC.
You might be neutral-cool or just neutral. It sounds like you *are* neutral if you’re getting matched on both NC and NW. NC are warm tones, so you were right there.
Thank you!
Hope you LOVE the 109!!
Hi Christine. I recently stumbled across your blog and am totally loving it 🙂
I’ve recently started wearing lipstick again, but am having a hard time finding a good shade. I am NW20, black hair, brown eyes. Currently my fav blushes are cliniques fresh bloom all over color in peony (which kinda gives me a slightly bronzed look) and mac mineralized blush in dainty.
I’m open to any brands for lipstick, my lips do kinda dry out. I have currently tried mac please me and lancomes rustique. I’m just trying to find a good one for everyday use, something that adds a bit of color. (my go to nighttime lipstick is dior opulent mauve).
Its been awhile since I’ve worn lipglosses too, just never been a big fan of the stickiness, so I prefer to stick with lipsticks + lipbalm.
Thankies 🙂
Hey Astra,
For a great everyday lipstick shade for you, I’d recommend something like MAC Angel or Shy Girl!
Thank you!
What’s the best way to apply a cream foundation like theBalm Time Balm? If it’s with a brush, can you suggest a non-expensive brush for me to try?
Also, I am fair, nuetral-warm (I believe) with pink undertones. I have medium brown hair with red highlights due to henna and hazel green eyes. Could you suggest some everyday as well as some fun lipstick colors for me to try? I have a ton of glosses, but only a few l/s (Thrills, Funbathing, Viva Glam V, Viva Cyndi, and another deep red MAC l/s that I can’t remember the name of LOL). I have no preference when it comes to finish.
I would prefer MAC if possible, but if you have a really kick ass suggestion from another blend, I’d love to hear it! 🙂
Thank you so much for doing this and for your wonderful blog! I check in at least a couple times a day. 🙂
Also, could you suggest a lip balm/treatment for my perpetually chapped lips? I can get them to the point where they aren’t peeling so much, but I can never seem to get rid of the chapping on the middle of my bottom lip. I feel like I’ve tried everything!
I’m really LOVING Jack Black’s Lip Balm!
Foundation or concealer? Time Balm is a concealer, right? For concealer, I like the 217 brush – fluffy and small so it blends out and looks very natural.
For everyday lipstick colors, try: Honeylove, Syrup, Crosswires!
Thank you!
theBalm makes a Time Balm foundation as well. 🙂 It’s just about the same as the concealer, just bigger. 🙂
Geez, where I have been? And how confusing!
So, I’ve never tried it (obviously), but I would use the 109 (a fluffy but short and flat-topped brush) spritzed with water. I’d dab a bit on each cheek, forehead, nose, and chin, then blend.
Awesome, thank you! I’ll try that. I’ve been using a sponge and while that seems to work well, I’ve been curious how other methods would work.
You should try it though. It’s one of the very few (out of the many) I’ve tried that doesn’t break me out. I also like that it’s buildable (though I prefer it done lightly). The packaging isn’t great, but you get a lot of product, so I can’t complain. LOL
And thank you for the l/s suggestions! I’ll check them out when I head to MAC this weekend. 🙂
My pleasure, Sabrina!
Hi,
It is really amazing that I get to have your answer for my question…:)
These days, it tends to get super hot and super humid in the area I live.
I have very oily skin and acne-prone as well, so I tend to use a foundation that is high in coverage and matte.
And I set my foundation with jurlique or MUFE hd powder because I do not like the sticky feeling from foundation.
It may be a stupid question to ask, after three hours of wearing make up without any touch ups (because I do not have time in between:(), my foundation gets stuck in between little wrinkles around my mouth and nose area and I see a lot of holes and cracks(?).
This makes me really depressing because I am not even wearing tons of foundation I use less than dime amount.
Whenever I try to blot it and re-powder it, it becomes more dirtier looking.
What do you think my problem is?
Thank you so much
Hey Sara,
What do you use to apply the foundation? One good idea would be to let the foundation settle a bit before setting it with powder – that way you can buff it out if it settles anywhere, and then set it.
What are some high-end foundations that do not have a strong fragrance? I really want to try MUFE’s Face and Body but the complaints about the scent worries me. My skin is quite sensitive and ever since I had an incident with Diorshow mascara (I had an horrible allergic reaction for a week), I’m trying to avoid products that have heavy scents than I’m fearful of causing another allergic reaction.
Bobbi Brown, Lancome Dual Finish, and I believe Laura Mercier also doesn’t have a strong scent.
I don’t remember MUFE F&B having a strong scent, but it has been awhile.
Sorry to hear about your reaction 🙁
Thank you so much, you’ve been very helpful 🙂
NC 45, I don’t have so much money to shell out but if its worth it I will, have you tried elf brushes some of them are pretty good for being 1 dollar. Can you also help out with winging eyeliner iv tried and I just press the brush up against my eye to make sure they’re the same length it works out well, any ideas for a pin up look for people of my color? Since I’m still new to the makeup world the eye diagram you have is very helpful but its not the same as seeing it done on camera. Thanks again I am sorry for all the questions again, you’re so helpful
E.L.F. is pretty great for $1 😀
For a pin-up look, try something like Mylar all over the lid, Soft Brown on the outer half of the lid, and Brun in the crease, then use black gel eyeliner or liquid liner on the upper lash line. I love the 208 brush — very thin and angled, but stiff enough to get a good line, and use a soft touch and do it in sections.
Yay! I was hoping for one of these today!
Christine, I am having the worst luck finding a nighttime moisturizer. I have very dry skin (normal-to-dry during summer)and I have tried so many different brands/types. Most aren’t moisturizing enough (Pangea Organics, Philosophy, Olay, Dove, Murad), are scented and burn my skin (All Aveeno, though I’m fine with their daytime mositurizers), or are too greasy (L’Occitane, Clinique). Do you have any recommendations? I am so frustrated. Thanks!
Hey Colleen,
Have you tried Clinique Maximum Hydrator? I love that stuff. NARS Aqua Gel is also good, too. It has a gel-y texture but yet it’s a cream (not a gel!) – and it’s not at all greasy or heavy but both are super moisturizing.
Thanks Christine! I’ll check out the NARS moisturizer. I have had such issues with Clinique. Thank you so much!
HEY Christine,
Just wanted to tell you that I adore you. I can’t get enough of this, always need my daily dose of temptalia. hahaa
I have NC 25-30 skin and would like to know what are the best MAC blush colors for my skintone?
And do you know if MAC will have another friends and family sale, I would really like to stock up on their permanent products?
Thank You!
Hi Lisa,
Try MAC Margin, Springsheen, Sunbasque, and Ambering Rose.
I haven’t heard anything about a F&F sale, sorry!
Thank you!
Hi Christine!
This is my first time posting anything on a blog, but I adore visiting your site and I have a question to ask you.
I’ve read and re-read what Mac beauty powders are and what they are supposed to be used for. However, I still don’t fully understand their purpose (I apologize if you’ve been asked about this at nauseum). So they are less pigmented than a blush? Do you find them worth purchasing? Do you use them all over and then apply a blush? Any more detailed information would really be appreciated. I had never heard of a beauty powder before and it intrigues me.
Thank you!!!
Usually, beauty powders are less pigmented than blushes. Most of the time, they’re all-over powders – kind of to add a little luminosity. 🙂
Hey Christine,
What MAC blushes would u recommend for a NW 45-47?
And do the msfs such as perfect topping, petticoat,etc ever ruin ur pictures when u use flash photography because I heard that they dont photograph well?
Thanks for the site and doing this for us.
Hey Tatoama,
MAC Breezy, Dollymix, Breath o’ Plum
If you apply too much, it can – it depends on how strong the flash is. I usually don’t have too much trouble, but I don’t wear them very often since I think they break me out 🙁
Hi Christine,
So I’ve got a few questions for you:
1. What is the equivalent of my skintone in MAC? I am a 123 on MUFE HD Foundation.
2. What would be the best blush for my skintone?
3. So I was wondering, how can you afford to buy all these makeup? I know you’re going to school, but are you working as well?
4. Would you ever want to become a MUA? Why or why not? Do you think there is good money in that industry, or do you have to be extremely talented to get some jobs?
Thanks in Advance Christine. And hug to Mellan! 🙂
Hi Michelle,
1.) NC30 most likely
2.) Any brand in particular? I’ll rec MAC since that’s usually the most commonly requested, but feel free to ask for a specific brand. MAC Margin would be amazing.
3.) I don’t work, other than on the blog and go to school – between the blog and school, I definitely don’t have time to spare, lol! The blog is ad-supported!
4.) Nope. I like interacting and talking about makeup like how I do on the blog – reviewing products, swatching, testing – but not applying on makeup. There can be, but it is often a long, difficult road to get there – you have to network well and have at least some talent! 🙂
Thanks!
Thank you Christine!
I just read your review re: Stereo Rose. You mentioned that it will look great on warmer skintones. So I was wondering, Should I join the craziness and actually get one? Or stick with Mac Margin as what you suggested?
Thank you so much! I looove your blog and you are AMAZING! Btw, we have the same thing going on with our bf’s. I have the most supportive bf ever, buying stuff from mac and sephora for me when I’m too busy to go! 😛
If you like MSFs, you’ll probably like Stereo Rose. If you’re not huge on MSFs, I don’t know if you’ll miss it. Margin is different enough from Stereo Rose that you could always get it down the road.
Thank you so much!! 🙂
What a sweet boyfriend you have!
I think I’m going to skip Stereo Rose for now. I mean, I don’t have to have everything that everyone is going crazy about. I have fairly dry skin, so I think this might not even look good on me. 😛
I wish you knew how much stuff I bought because you recommended it. And my boyfriend really think i’m crazy for having tons of makeup. Every time I would want to buy something, I would show him your review first, then I would eventually get his approval. 😛 You have great convincing powers! 😛
And oh, Thank you for posting that video of your makeup collection, my boyfriend thinks I’m an angel now for having such a small collection compared to yours. lol.
Again, Thank you for all your help. You are so great! 🙂
It is really my pleasure! I hope you enjoy the products I’ve recommended, too 😛
Thank you!
What do you think is the best foundation for dry skin? I have to work really hard not to get streaky coverage – even after letting moisturizer and primer sink in to my skin.
I like dewier foundations like MAC Face & Body or Mineralize Satinfinish (which is REALLLY dewy)! Sometimes creamier foundations can also be better – like MAC Moistureblend.
Hi Christine 🙂
Im NC25 and was wondering what MAC blushes/lipsticks and what NARS lipsticks would look good on my skintone?
Also, whats a good lightweight foundation and tinted moisturizer for combo/oily skin?
Thank you!
MAC Ambering Rose, Margin, Springsheen, Sunbasque; NARS Deep Throat, Orgasm, Torrid
MAC Lipsticks: Bombshell, Craving, Crosswires, Plumful, Sweetie, Velvet Teddy, Viva Glam I
NARS Lipsticks: Christina, Flamenco, Manhunt, Niagara
Kiehl’s Tinted Moisturizer and MAC Select SPF 15!
Hi Christine,
I’m an NW 20 and I’m wondering about the best blushes for my skin tone (from NARS and MAC, mostly) as well as the best lipsticks from MAC. I’m a fan of peachy keen in terms of blush, and I lean towards varying shades of pink/peachy lip colours.
Thanks!
MAC Lipsticks: Angel, Dubonnet, High Tea, Hue, Odyssey, Sweetie, Syrup
Blush…
MAC: Breath o’ Plum, Cubic, Springsheen, Peaches, Well-Dressed
NARS: Angelika, Copacabana (Multiple), Dolce Vita, Riviera (Multiple), Sin
Hi,
I was wondering if you could pick out some liquid and powder foundations for. My skin in extermely oily even if i do not have any makeup on. I have tried lots of drugstore ones but they dont work. I don’t have a brand preference, so if it is expensive i dont care. I just need something that works. Also, is there something available to remove shine, oil, dirt, and blackheads. Please help me! I hate having oily skin.
Thanks
Hi Cath,
Liquid: Make Up For Ever Mat+ Velvet, MAC Studio Fix Fluid
Powder: Clinique Almost Powder, Make Up For Ever Duo Mat
For a cleanser, you could try Philosophy’s Purity (Foaming)!
Love the blog, as always!
I recently started tanning a bit and using a fake tan (xen-tan…LOVE) on my body. I wear spf on my face, and don’t use the xen-tan on my face because it breaks me out like nothing else.
My body is now around a nw35-40, but my face is a nw20. Any suggestion on how to make my face match my body?
Also, your favorite foundation(s)? Give me your list! (just fyi…I have very sensitive skin with some dryness and breakouts around my chin.)
Hey Jillian,
The best is to gradually build up the color by using a slightly darker foundation and then complementing with bronzer to give it that darker look and make sure to take it down your neck.
I like Guerlain Parure Gold the most – amazing coverage and finish. I also like MUFE HD for photos/video. Otherwise I kind of just go to Tinted Moisturizers like Kiehl’s or Korres.
my blush tends to dissapear all the time how can i prevent that? im an nc45 and i was thinking about trying out the Blushcreme by mac and see if it stays, my skin is pretty oily
You could try a cream blush and then set with powder or even another blusher to see if that prolongs the wear. A primer may also help!
I’ve got a question! I’m dark-skinned (NC 45?), South Asian, with neutral/olive undertones and I’m looking for a blush that is pigmented enough to show up on my cheeks and looks good on my skin tone. I just started getting into makeup recently, so I’m basically looking for a place to start. Any suggestions?
Hi Lia,
Try NARS Mata Hari, Taj Mahal, and Oasis.
Hi Christine,
You mentioned that you’ve used Mederma. I purchased a tube a while back for some light acne scarring on my face. However, I can never seem to remember to put it on regularly and the instruction says to use multiple times a day for 8 weeks if I recall. Do you think it would be okay to put it in my moisturizers (day and night)? One less step perhaps?
I have no idea – to be honest, I just use it at night, since it seems like it does cover the skin a bit, and I want to make sure my skin breathes as much as possible.
hi christine
can you recommend me a good concealer for sensitive skin (nw15)… i have scars on my face -real, red ones-. My skin is so sensitive that every pimple that appears turns into a scar… also i have light skin and every concealer i own tend to crease and wear off.
Hi Kayra,
Those may not be scars — may just be hyperpigmentation marks, which can almost look like scars, because they can take anywhere from a month to two years to fade.
For a concealer, you could try an opaque one like theBalm’s Time Balm — it’s opaque, thick, and does a great job at concealing.
Hey Christine!
NW20, blue eyes, medium brown hair –
I love making MAC quads and would really appreciate some recs from you 🙂 I really like when each quad can be a look only with the 4 colors.
1. Pink/Purple Quad – I have Pink Freeze and Hush
2. Neutral (Gold-ish) – I only have Romp
3. Neutral (Champagne-y) – Dazzlelight
3. Smokey – Haven’t started
Thanks, this is really amazing!
Hi Baylee,
1.) Parfait Amour, Shadowy Lady
2.) Patina, Bronze, Nylon
3.) Brun, Soft Brown, Naked Lunch
4.) Ricepaper/Shroom/Vanilla (one of those), Silver Ring, Carbon, Satin Taupe
Hi Christine,
I was wondering if you could recommend a good crease brush. I am currently using a MAC 36 (really old) and it does not seem to be working well and the product seems to spill everywhere. I know you like the 226 which was limited edition and not available anymore, but can you recommend one of the permanent brushes? Thanks.
Also, I wanted to say how much I love your blog. I visit a few times a day and it is always the highlight of my day! You are very good at what you do, you really appreciate your readers, and you seem like an amazing person too! Keep up the great work!
The 222 or 224 would work really well – I also like the 272 for the crease.
Thank you so much! 🙂
what foundation/tinted moisturizer would you recommend that i can use for a tropical country (philippines) that is water proof or sweat proof… it is very hot and humid there.. i do not want to be wearing heavy makeup under a hot and humid weather..please help.. thanks 🙂
Lancome’s holds up pretty well to the heat!
Hi, Bea! Everytime I visit the Phils., I can’t wear liquid foundation. It just melts and feels heavy. But mineral foundation works for me there. Great coverage too. My fave is Laura Mercier for mineral foundation. Am not sure what they have there though. Maybe Bare Escentuals?
Hi Christine! I love your blog ever since i’ve got into the Liberty of London collection, which totally made me get OBSESSED to your blog and MAC products.
Can you recommend cleansers/ make up removers ? Face/eye-lip areas?
Thanks!
Hey Linda,
For makeup removers, I like Cleansing Oils like Shu’s, Bobbi Brown’s, and MAC’s. For eye/lip makeup, I like Lancome Bi-Facil!
Thank you!
Hi Christine,
I love your blog! It’s easy to navigate, well-organized, and is updated frequently. Your reviews are always concise and honest and I admire a lot =)
I’m looking for a lip gloss or lip balm that will suit my NC40/NC45 skin tone. I would like a product that is decently pigmented and I prefer brush-tipped applicators. I’m open to any brand available at Sephora, Macy’s beauty counters, and CVS. I have fairly pigmented lips and I’m looking for a lip product that is non-sticky and will fill out the little lines in my lips. I don’t like shimmer in my lip products and I also don’t like the super-shiny lip look. The colors that i’m drawn to are subdued corals and pinks. I’m not a fan of MAC lipglasses, I find them too sticky. I do like their TLC products but i wish they were packaged in tubes instead of pots (I’m so picky! I know). I’m also interested in lip stains, (coral or pink).
Thanks!
Ooh, you might like Bobbi Brown’s Lip Treatments, actually. They have a very lip balm but lipstick color kind of feel and look.
Now, for a gloss, you may like Guerlain’s Cashmere Gloss, which is a gloss but dries down to a near matte finish. It has a doe-foot applicator, though, but the three shades are very pigmented.
Lip stains… Laura Mercier has the best ones, but I’m not 100% sold.
Thank you so much! I’ll definitely look into those.
Foundation..I want to look flawless .. dream on right! lol ok ill fake it.
I need to find out what the best SUMMER FOUNDATION is?
Need to know: I currently have Nars Sheer Glow (Barcelona) and Bare Escentuals Golden Medium mixed with Golden Tan so in essence im shade NC42. Oily skin. Foundations need to be oil-free.
I have a yellow undertone I am told, so that makes it tricky. I need one with medium coverage because I have a bit of redness in the cheeks.
Hope you can reccomend a great one.
Bobbi Brown makes great foundations for those with yellower undertones! I also like MUFE HD.
Hi Christine,
I’m very pale with neutral to yellow undertones (with some freckles from the sun). For reference: diorskin nude foundation in 010 is perfect for me. I have light blue eyes (sometimes with a hint of grey) and ash blonde hair. I have dark brows and eyelashes though.
* What colours could make my eyes pop? Could you recommend me some everyday eyeshadows (regular or cream), and some more intense colours for a night out? Preferably MAC.
* I’m very tempted by Mac’s cranberry, brown script, club and flammable paint. Would these colours suit me?
*Also, I’m looking for a very natural looking moisturizing lipstick, for everyday use. Could you recommend me some?
Sorry for all the questions, I hope you still find some time to answer them. Thank you in advance! Your tutorials and product reviews are always amazing!
Hi Lily,
Coppers, golds, and greens would be lovely with your eye color. I think Cranberry and Brownscript would be great for you for sure. Club would also be a funky color for a smoky eye! Everyday shades… Amber Lights, Goldmine, Cranberry. Intense shades… Cranberry, Plum Dressing, Patina
Smashbox Splendid Lipstick, Urban Decay Naked Lipstick
Thank you!
I absolutely LOVE this blog. ^_^ It’s been so inspiring and helpful for me, and I really admire how lovely you can make it while being a busy full-time student.
What do you think is the closest MAC permanent colour to Viva Glam Gaga? Any good-quality close dupes in other brands? I love mine and I’m dreading the day I use it up.
I find orange and coral lipsticks so lovely on warm-toned people, but they’re challenging for me to wear. I’m about an NW30, dark hair and eyes. What are a couple of MAC lipsticks in that colour range that might be a bit more wearable for people like me?
Thanks so much! ^_^
Hi Maria,
I would say MAC Snob is about as close as you can get.
Have you tried more of a peach stone? Sometimes a true peach is easier to wear than one that pulls orange. I’d recommend MAC Ravishing and Vegas Volt for something brighter.
christine,
first I must say that I absolutely adore your blog. I would like to start collecting makeup (i usually stick to drug store brands) but I am unsure of what brands would be good to start out with? just opinions..
also, I have very oily skin, I have tried alot of products to try and eliminate the shine, but during the summer it still comes around, do u have any opinions? maybe a blotting powder or cleanser?
thankyou!
Hi Elyse,
MAC is a really great entry-level high-end brand, because it’s not as pricey as some of the higher end brands, but it’s definitely high end.
I’d say a blotting powder would work well for mid-day touchups and the like. If you’re looking for something to combat it, maybe Smashbox Anti-Shine.
i would also say buy what you like! urban decay do good collectibles too like the palettes. i get loads of use out of them too!
Hi Christine! Thanks so much for doing this 🙂
For reference I’m between NC30 and NC40.
I don’t really have problem skin but I like the SFF high coverage, I’d like to try something lighter to check if I’d like it too since sometimes it feels I don’t need so much coverage for when I’m just attending classes, for example.
Also I have oily skin.
I’d like suggestions for a blush, preference for MAC, I only own Ripe Peach. And eyeshadows (I have brown eyes and brown hair) MAC preference as well 🙂
Just a side note: we don’t have MAC pro in my country so if your suggestions could be of the MAC regular line it’d be great 🙂
Thanks in advance!
Hey Andreia,
You could sheer out SFF by dampening your brush with a little water! 🙂
For blush, try MAC Margin, Sunbasque, and Ambering Rose.
Thank you!
I know it’s not much, but I have $50 to spend at Sephora and I’m looking for some ideas! I’ve been eyeing the UD Naked Palette – any ideas? 🙂
How about the UD palette and a UD liner to go with it? Maybe Stash or Deviant?
Hi Christine! Thanks for taking the time to answer our questions! I have been a fan of your site for a long time and reading it has become a daily ritual for me, I’d feel lost without a daily dose! You have introduced me to many brands I’ve never tried before and I am really glad! I missed out on the last Q&A session so I’ll ask now lol:
1) Do you have a favorite lipstick?
2) What was the first makeup item you ever purchased?
3) Do you have any other hobbies you enjoy?
Sorry if I’m being nosy and thanks again! = )
Hi Julie,
1.) Oh, man. I’ll just go with what’s popping in my head right now… Guerlain Gems lipstick, which was limited edition.
2.) Benefit Makeup! 🙂 I dropped $300! (I think I was 15 or 16.)
3.) I play with my dog and like to read. I also like to do jigsaw puzzles, but truthfully, I don’t have the space or time these days (I like doing 3,000+ ones).
Thank you so much! And not nosy at all 🙂
3,000+?! lol, I do not have the patience to do that so I commend you! Do you still enjoy those Benefit products now that you are older? 😀
I don’t have any of them, since they would be like… 8 years old now, lol!
My biggest was 12,000 😀
Hi Christine! I’m looking for some color recommendations. I’m sick of neutrals/bronzes/golds but I feel like my coloring doesn’t look right with more colorful makeup. Maybe you can help. I’m fair but not ghost white, warm undertones. I think my foundation is a MAC 15. I have brown eyes and natural auburn hair. I find that typical suggestions for redheads don’t work for me because they seem geared towards more translucent skintone. I prefer MAC and Benefit. Thank you!
Hey Lacey,
Have you tried wearing greens? Like maybe MAC Juxt on the lid and Humid in the crease (or Sumptuous Olive)?
Hi Christine,
My question is about building a 15 pan, neutral MAC e/s palette. I’m an NC 20/25, and tan to about an NC 30 in the summer though I’m probably a little more neutral than cool. I’m particularly interested in finding highlighters and lighter crease shades that will work with any other e/s colour (I tend to wear greens/blues/purples/golds/bronzes/silvers). What colours would you recommend for this ultimate neutral e/s palette?
Whoops, I meant to say more neutral than warm.
Hey Kikeri,
Here are some of my favorite neutrals: Shroom, Vanilla, Dazzlelight, Ricepaper, Nylon, Hush, Soft Brown, Omega, Wedge, Brule, Bamboo, Swiss Chocolate
I was thinking this last night, and I was wondering… Spa visits, amazing makeup collection, a 2 bedroom apt in SF? How do you do it? Is it all money that the blog makes? (Sorry if it’s too personal, but sometimes, it’s like, WHOA!)
Does your boyfriend support you? And if so, where did you meet him? How do you keep your relationship so good, and lasting so strong?
I don’t live in SF – I live south of SF so I’m definitely not paying San Francisco prices, LOL! I live with my boyfriend, so we split our expenses, and we got a really good rate on our apartment because of the local housing market taking (it was cheaper than the one bedroom we were renting, so it made no sense to stay). I take out massive student loans every year!
We met online 10+ years ago, and I think we have really good communication, similar goals, and are very supportive of each other, which keeps us from fighting too much and able to live in each other’s pockets!
Awesome. I really appreciate you taking the time to answer, I know it was kind of a personal question.
I hear you on the student loan thing, although I got cut off because of the government no longer letting banks do private loans for students. I get only enough for cover my tuition now, and so there goes my Mac collecting! (And rent, and power and food…)
But you’ll be so happy when school is all over! You’re going to be an excellent lawyer! (That is, if you don’t get recruited by all the makeup companies you’ve befriended over the years!! LOL!)
Hi Christine
I have just recently gotten into makeup, probably for a little over a year now, anyway i am planning on purchasing some mac brushes very soon and I was wondering if you could reccomend your four favourite eye brushes and your four favourite face brushes. p.s. I already own the 182 buffer brush.
Also i really love this blog, and I check it every day! 🙂
Hey Shayna!
Eye brushes: 239, 208 (if you do gel eyelining), 266 (if you do brows), 272 (highlighting, blending), 224 (crease)
Face brushes: 109 (liquid foundation), 116 (blush), 168 (contour), 134 (powder)
Thank you!
Hi Christine! Thanks for doing this!
What face primer would you recommend for someone with really oily, acne covered skin? NOTHING could keep my MUFE HD Foundation on today in the heat…figured it may be primer time!
Have you youself used MUFE concealer? ( You posted an article from sunday links of a previous review from someone but I love your imput)
Do you know if the MAC digipops eyeshadow kits are going to have special packaging? They seem kinda dull and like something you could “do” year round..Am I missing something?
Thanks Christine!! Stay cool in the heat
If you’re not sensitive to silicone-based ingredients, then Smashbox Photofinish or MUFE’s Primer both work well.
I have used MUFE’s Lift concealer and the HD concealer, but the HD burned my skin so bad, I had to rinse it off almost immediately and haven’t tried it again.
The quads are the new quads (like the ones from Spring Colour Forecast) — they’re special for *counters* which don’t have quads and pan eyeshadows.
Hi!
For reference, I’m an NC15/NW15 with light brown hair.
I have been using mineral foundation for a couple of months, and I am very happy with it. Before that, when I needed fuller coverage for my acne, I wore liquid or cream foundation.
I have been seeing a dermatologist and taking better care of my skin, and as a result most of my acne has gone away, leaving only a few scars behind. I definitely don’t have perfect skin, but it’s a lot better than it was.
I have heard of people with good skin using Mac MSF Naturals as a low-coverage foundation and applying it with a kabuki brush. I was thinking about trying this as a lower-coverage, lighter alternative to my BareMinerals foundation, for days when I feel like wearing less makeup. However, Mac markets MSF Naturals as more of a setting powder than anything.
In your opinion, would an MSF Natural offer me enough coverage to wear as a VERY light foundation on light makeup days? Or would it act too much like a setting powder, and look weird when worn by itself and not over another foundation?
Thanks!
Hi Michaela,
Yes, definitely! I know a TON of people swear by MSFN as a foundation 🙂
Thanks!
Hi, Christine!
I was wondering if you could help me find a lipstick in a punky-purple color. Sadly, I’ve had no results in my long search for one. I would like the color of the lipstick to look similar to this (sorry for inserting a link, if it bothers you): http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e67/xx_just_another_bloody_midnight_lust_xx/purplelipstick.jpg
I’m fair-skinned and cool-toned, with dark brown hair and dark brown eyes. For MAC, I’m in between NW15-20. However, the concealer end of LORAC’s Double Feature concealer in DF 0.5 matches my skin color exactly. (I’ve you’ve ever seen the product in this shade, that is.)
As for brands, I have no preference, as long as:
1. The brand DOES NOT test on animals. (I do not buy from any brands that do.)
2. The brand is available for purchase in the USA. (I don’t care whether it’s online or in a store. However, I always find it lovely to be able to try products on in-store before purchasing. =D)
3. The lipstick is under $30.
When asking other people, I’ve had them recommend MAC’s Rebel, Cyber, and Violetta lipsticks, and I once had somebody tell me to try Revlon’s Va Va Violet lipstick. However, I haven’t gotten around to trying these because I was a bit strapped for cash in the past few months (though it’s all settled now). If you’ve had any experience with these products, do you think these colors would be what I’m looking for?
Thank you so much for your help! (And for reading this extremely long comment, also. XD)
Yeah, that’s Rebel. Cyber is way darker, Violetta is similar, but I think this is like Rebel. It’s almost like a cross between Rebel and Violetta.
Thank you!
i dunno if you’ll be able to answer this cause its different from your natural skintone but do you know what MAC eyeshadow would be good for filling in light blonde brows (but not make them too dark?)
MAC Omega!
thanks!
Hi Christine!!
A couple of weeks ago you swatched Petulant intense lipgloss from Illamasqua. I loved it so much but there is no Illamasqua counter in Greece and i don’t use ligloss anyway, so I was wondering if there is any lipstick that is the same colour and has the same intensity as Petulant. I have axcess to Mac, Dior, Ysl, Lancome, Estee lauder, Givenchy and Channel counters. I would also like it if you can think of a lipstick that goes on opaque.
Thanks!
I can’t think of anything quite like it, unfortunately 🙁 I don’t know if you do online ordering, but illamasqua.com ships internationally, I believe.
Thanks anyway!
I also have another problem… I bought Rose Maiden from Spring forecast and when i tried to apply it on my lips yesterday it broke 🙁 I’m guessing that it became so soft because of the really hot weather. I tried to “stick” it back to the tube but I had no luck. Is there anything I can do? There are none left at my Mac counter so i can’t buy a new one.
You can heat it over a stove/flame and then push it back in. You just have to make it more melty 😉
Hi,
I have dark brown, small eyes and I was wondering if you could recommend something to open them up a bit and make them appear larger? Eyeshadows/liner/mascara anything!!
Thanks so much!
Try a flesh-toned eyeliner like Cargo’s Reverse Liner on the lower water line 🙂 Also, curl lashes!
Do you know of cheap shampoos for oily hair?
I’ve always had good luck with Herbal Essences.
I don’t know if this helps or not, but I have oily hair and I found that Suave Daily Clarifying works really well and it’s super cheap.
Thanks so much! I’ll try it.
Hi Christine!
I am between a NW 15-20 @ MAC. Medium brown hair and hazel eyes with freckles!
I am oilier, sensitive and use MAC, Laura Mercier, Chanel, NARS and Clinique mostly – but open to other brands.
I was wondering if you could suggest a good foundation for my oily skin other than Studio Fluid Fix – I live in Texas – it’s HOT and HUMID and SFF just feels too heavy. (More oil-prone in the summer, obviously!)
Also, a good blush – I am constantly buying them in a search for a go-to perfect default.
Also: I used to use ProActiv and now have switched to the Clinique 3 step skin care system and I use that with my Clarsonic. I am just looking for more clarity, smoothness and less redness. Any skin care regimen you could recommend for my sensitive, oily skin?
Your web page is totally my coffee and donuts – thanks for doin’ what you do! We all love being in the beauty know 🙂
You could try Korres Tinted Moisturizer — still decent coverage but much lighter AND matte finish like SFF 🙂
I also believe MAC Studio Sculpt may also be lighter weight and have a matte finish, too. For a blush, I recommend Peaches and/or Well Dressed!
Hm, skincare regimens… It’s really about using SPF in the AM, makeup remover, cleanser (if you wear heavy makeup, following up makeup remover with cleanser is good), toner, and PM moisturizer. You may want to use the Clarisonic 2-3x a week, and see how it goes, rather than 2x a day, which may be too much.
Thank you!
Love this site, wayyyyy too much! I even take notes on some posts.
I have one question:
I just got MAC Studio Fix pressed powder, the coverage is amazing–I love everything about it. But by noon, my forehead is way oily. I’m an oily girl as it is, but never have i gotten this greasy?! Before I used Revlon Color Stay’s oily formula. I’m not breaking out, but this new dewy look I’m sporting isn’t really my thing…
Any solution?
Hmm, it might be that Color Stay had more absorbing properties than Studio Fix, to be honest. You could either apply more or invest in blot powder! A primer may help as well.
Blot powder is a good idea. Which primer would you recommend?
Also, I have been hunting your site for a good nude lipstick for NC40 with yellow undertones. Any suggestions? I like Creme de Nude, but I haven’t swatched it yet.
MUFE HD Primer, Korres Silicone-Free primer!
Thanks lady!
I have a problem! I always feel like my skin looks like it has too much powder!I use tarte smooth operator foundation and then I put Revlon colorstay pressed powder on top. I like the foundation but what is a good powder because I have combination skin so it has to make my face not shiny without making me look powdery! I like urban decay nars and mac. Also do you think it would help if I wore a face primer? I’m thinking abt getting benefits that gal face primer. I just need to know how to make my face look less powdery! Thanks!
Also I have very very light skin! I wanted to try a red lip. I am only in high school so nothing to dramatic I was thinking urban decay pocket rocket in Eric. Any ideas? Thanks again!
Have you tried spritzing with water after you apply your face makeup?
Hi! Thanks so much for doing this!
I was wondering what shades make dark brown eyes pop?
Thank you, thank you!
Greens, golds, and purples!
What are your favorite mac golds and purples?
Thank you for the response, love your blog!
Love Gorgeous Gold, Goldmine, Patina for golds. Love Parfait Amour, Beautiful Iris, Digit, and Stars ‘n Rockets for purples.
Thank you!
First, thanks SOOOO much for all the great advice on the site.
1. Would you say MAC Jazzed and YSL Rouge Volupte #13 are similar?
2. Any tips from getting rid on redness? My skin looks so uneven, but i’m tired of hiding it in thick foundation.
Hey Kristin,
It seems a little darker than #13.
Clinique’s Redness Solution line — I have heard some really great things about it. Might be a way to go for an OTC treatment rather than concealer.
Hey Christine! Love the site and love these q/a sessions! 🙂
I’m around NC 25. Still deal with acne and acne scars, and my T-zone tends to be pretty oily while the rest of my face is pretty dry.
I was looking for a tinted moisturizer or foundation. Something light feeling that provides light to medium coverage. I’ve used MAC Select SPF 15 Foundation (loved the coverage but after a while it just made me look extra yellow), Laura Mercier oil free tinted moisturizer and the regular one in Nude (Loved the coverage and look but after getting about half way through each bottle it starts to look orangey on me and the regular tinted moisturizer didn’t have enough coverage), and I’ve tried more from Clinique, Hard Candy, Physicians Formula, and other random brands from Sephora. I’ve always found the problem to be too dark, too pink, or too orange. I’m wondering if maybe I could have both yellow and pink undertones? Or things don’t sink/blend into my face and just melt off or make my face kinda itchy after a while. Anyways I’d appreciate some help! Any brand/price point is cool with me. Thanks so much!!
Hi Laura,
I’d recommend Kiehl’s or Korres for a tinted moisturizer – both are light with decent coverage (not medium exactly, but close to it).
What is a good long-wearing, medium to full coverage liquid foundation for combo skin? I’m currently wearing N5 in MAC’s StudioFix powder foundation.
Estee Lauder Double Wear or Lancome’s Dual Finish!
Can you recommend any plummy lipsticks? I’ve tested Clinique’s Almost Lipstick in Black Honey and I really love how it looks on me (I wear LF1 in Korres Ginger&Vitamins foundation), but it doesn’t last very long on my lips. Maybe a MAC lipstick? Thank you~
MAC Plumful! MAC Capricious!
I need mascara help. I have tried, literally every drug store brand and they all smudge on me, even the waterproof (used, FullnSoft, Voluminous, Prestige etc). I guess I have sensetive eyes. Currently, I’m using Covergirl professional thicklash (recommended to me from a friend) and it works alright. I want to try some higher end brands but don’t want to waste my $ if they will do the same thing. I don’t want huge lashes, just black, defined lashes and a mascara that doesn’t flake or end up on my lower eyelid at the end of the day. Any suggestions? thanks!
Do you have really long lashes? Is it when you’re wearing eye makeup or just mascara?
I have normal/average length lashes. It only happens when I wear eye shadow and mascara. I’ve played around with different eyeshadow brands in case that was causing an allergy as well as different eyeliners.
can you do a lip swatch tutorial? do u shoot in raw? how often do u monitor ur competitors and how do u stay ahead?
I just take a close-up of my lips – really nothing special, lol! I don’t shoot in raw, since I’m only using the images for websites, so it’s unnecessary to shoot in raw.
I don’t — because I focus on what I’m doing, where I want to go, and the plans I have for the blog. I also think there is room for many, many beauty blogs, because everybody’s voice and expertise is different, so I don’t look at other beauty blogs as competition.
What would you recommend for applying liquid foundation if the MAC 109 sheds too much for me? I like heavier coverage and am trying to decide between the MAC 190, the beautyblender, or maybe the MAC 182. Which of those would you recommend? Or would you recommend something else?
Thank you in advance!
I like the Beautyblender’s results, but I find washing it annoying. I love the 182 or 130!
Use what the good Lord gave ya! (Fingers, that is.) Gives me the best coverage. Make sure they’re clean!
I have the same problem too. My 109 sheds like craz. 🙁
Oops, I meant crazy! 🙂
Hi Christine, what is a good primer for oily/ acne prone skin? I would like a primer that really helps my makeup stay on. In case u need it I use the color 06 honey in the even better foundation frm clinique. Would you know around what mac color range that would be?
Thanks for answering all these questions
Hmm, maybe CoverFX’s Mattifying Primer.
NC40-NC45 – somewhere around there!
Hi Christine,
Thanks for doing this! Just wondering whether you had advice on how to replicate the look Penelope Cruz has going in Volver. I just can’t seem to find the right lipstick–advice on other parts would be helpful too.
Do you have a link to it?
Hi Temptalia!
MAC seems to be a very very popular brand among bloggers, if not the most usual favorite brand. (even when it’s a very hard brand to get hold of), and yes, I do like the sortiment. But I’m curious of why it has become as popular as it is. What do you think people like most about it? What do you like best about mac?
It’s a lot cheaper than other high-end brands — even Urban Decay goes for $17 per eyeshadow and don’t come in pans. I think MAC also has a TON of locations and you get the high-end feel even though you pay a little less. They also have new stuff coming out all the time, so you’re always engaged.
I love that they have such a huge range. It’s hard to not to find at least a few things you like in the entire range. I also like the price point and how they do come out with new things–sure, after 6 years, I’ve seen a lot, but it’s still fun to see what they come out next.
what skin tones does nars exhibit a and taj mahal look good on. I am going to guess maybe not NC 20?
ALL!! You can rock it!
Hi, I left a comment earlier today about comparing Chanel Rose Dentelle to Korres Natural Pink lipstick but I’ve tried going back on the page twice (from different machines, internet connections etc) and it won’t load on either. Are they similar?
I’d say Natural Pink is a little sheerer and less pink, but they are kind of in the same family 😛
Does the page not load or your comment? Because I only approve comments once I’ve answered them (helps me keep track of what I need to reply to still)!
None of the comments load. I must’ve broken it!
Thanks for talking me out of the Chanel, I’ve spent enough money recently (new handbag, MAC haul)
Hmm, I see all the comments?!
Still not working for me, it stops halfway through the ‘You may enjoy…’ box. No worries now anyway, I’ve got my answer, thanks! =)
Weird – could you let me know if it’s working now? I think I fixed whatever was causing it, but I don’t see it on my end!
What do you think of Urban Decay’s lipstains?
I’ve only tried them once or twice, but I didn’t really love them. They didn’t sit right on my lips and the applicator was annoying.
Hello Christine!
What is your favorite brand for powder foundation? My skin is normal to oily.
By the way you’re doing great work with your blog! It is very helpful!
Thanks!!!
Clinique Almost Powder or Laura Mercier’s Pressed!
Thank you, Marjorie!
Thank you so much for this post!
This summer, I’m planning on going to my first Warped Tour, which is an all day,outdoor, music festival. What are your tips for really REALLY longlasting/sweatproof makeup,specificaly eye makeup? I’m pretty much all set for the face/cheeks, but urban decay’s primer potion to keep my liner/shadow in check doesn’t last as long as I like.
You could try doubling up your bases, e.g. UDPP over a MAC Paint Pot. I’d actually go with Make Up For Ever’s Eye Sealer or Benefit’s She-Laq and just SHELLAC that baby.
Hi,
I have fallen in love with coquette eyeshadow by MAC, but am having trouble finding something to pair it with, do you have any suggestions?
Thanks!
Love it with Omega, Brule, and Vanilla! 🙂
Hi Temptalia!
Do you watch the bachelorette? I love Ali’s makeup and i was wondering if you could give some recommendations to recreate her look.
Thanks!
I don’t 🙁
Hi :] I have a few questions…I am on the paler side (even thought my MAC said I needed NC 35 studio fix powder) I wear mostly ivory colored foundations. I also have strawberry blonde hair
I have blonde eyelashes, and its always a pain to try and get at bottom base of my lash line. You can always see a little blonde coming throught. Any tips/ products to help with this?
Whats a good everyday MAC blush thats kind of peachy to give me a bit of glow?
I want to start wearing a little more color on my eyes but haven’t tried it yet..what do you recommend for blue eyes?
thanks for your help!
Hey Amanda,
1.) I’d say if you can get a mascara with a very small wand, you’d have a better shot at getting all the lashes, to the roots, without smudging it everywhere. Or else the MAC 205 mascara brush, which is PRO only, I believe.
2.) Peaches, though it has no shimmer – for shimmer, try Peachykeen.
3.) Ooh, I like coppers and greens on blue eyes – like Amber Lights and Antiqued or Sumptuous Olive.
If you put a business card behind your lashes (on your lid), you can get as close to the base of your lashes as you want without having to worry about getting mascara on your lid.
if you have rosy tones to your skin, like fair with a little bit of natural redness, would you say that would be a warm or cool tone?
Most likely cool-toned.
have you tried any of the victoria’s secret fragrances? which is your favorites?
I have tried a few, but not too many. I like the new one that came out for summer – it’s in a sunshine bottle!
Hi, Christine! I am very fair, MAC Studio Fix N4, dark brown hair and dark brown eyes. I am looking for an every day look using purples for eyeshadow, can you make any recommendations for shadows, blush and lips? I have to be careful because some purples/pinks make me look tired. I prefer MAC, but Bobbi Brown, Estee Lauder, Stila are ok, I try to use cruelty free cosmetics. Thanks so much, I enjoy your website!
Hi Karen,
I’d suggest MAC Beautiful Iris on the lid, Parfait Amour in the crease, and Shadowy Lady to define the crease, maybe Hush to highlight (or whatever highlighter). For blush, Well Dressed or Breath o’ Plum. For lips, Sweetie or Angel.
Hi Christine,
What’s a blush similar to Nars Orgasm, without the shimmer?
Thanks
You could try Illamasqua Hussy.
ok dunno if i’ve time to ask one more, i’ve had a lovely evening (its almost 12 midnight here) reading all the other questions. what MAC lipstick is similar to the plum dior colour you were wearing in todays earlier post?
MAC Desire or Spice It Up maybe!
Hi Christine! Love your blog first of all, it’s my go-to website when I first open my computer…even before my email sometimes! Learned so much from you since I started following it last Fall. 🙂
Question:
1. One of my FAVORITE lip gloss products from MAC is the Lip Gelee. It’s my favorite soft texture that doesn’t make my lips peel and it suprisingly stays on really long on my lips. My fave color is this coral-y one from oh gosh maybe 2007ish (I honestly have no idea and the sticker came off :(…so I sadly can’t give you the name to ask for a dupe). Since the color range is SO LIMITED for this product, what is the closest lipgloss that you’ve found to this texture? I’d like to find more colors and am willing to go to any brand.
2. What’s your favorite lip exfoliater/scrub/treatment? Since I do get flaky lips I think it’s time I do some sort of treatment and/or scrub to get a softer lip since lipbalm during the day doesn’t seem to help too much.
3. I have combination skin that’s leaning toward normal now (yay for keeping up with a skincare routine!) but I still get occasional breakouts every other week and my NC30 skin scars kind of easily. Since there’s that Mario Badescu sale on Gilt tomorrow I was wondering if there are any other products you recommend besides the drying lotion and drying cream? Are his cleansers and toners worth getting or are they just kind of like every other brand?
Thanks in advance!
Hey Christian,
1.) Make Up For Ever Glossy Full Couleur has a very similar texture, though they’re pretty sheer and nothing has shimmer.
2.) Sara Happ’s The Lip Scrub! I loves.
3.) I like the Mario Badescu line in general – it’s very non-fussy and has always been effective for me. I used to use their cleanser/toner (forget which ones), but I’m always moving on, LOL.
Thank you!
1.would you say the dior amber diamonds is a good highlighter for nc42/43 or by candlelight?
2. what’s a good matte bronzer for contouring?
3. is mac sculpt and shape accentuate/definitive good for my nc42/43 skin or which one would you recommend?
and thanks for answering my other questions, you’re so helpful!
Hey Le,
1.) Dior Amber Diamonds
2.) I’d go with MAC Sculpt or MSFN in Dark or Deep Dark, actually, over a bronzer, for contouring.
3.) I think Sculpt would work 🙂
For a highlighter, would you recommend Guerlain’s Meteorite Powder for the Face? I want a natural glowly look.
Yes, it would definitely work!
Hi Christine
First of all I got to stay I love your blog and I read it about every 5 hours 🙂
I’m 17 going into my senior year of high school and I have never worn makeup like on a regular bases .. I was wondering what should I use because not even my
Mom uses makeup only mascara and she is 42 ! Help! Thanks alex
Hey Alix,
Wear what you’re interested in — my mom doesn’t wear makeup and never has (not even mascara!). In high school, less is definitely more, but you can have fun with color if you feel like it! 🙂 I wouldn’t go for heavy foundations (just tinted moisturizer or concealer), though.
Sorry, One more question, I love Bough gray and Birds and Berries from Liberty of London, any suggestion on parings for those eyeshadows?
Hey Alyssa,
Try pairing them with greens like Juxt, or silvers like Electra. Oh, also pale purples like Digit!
I’m a NC25/N5 with light brown/dark blonde hair and hazel eyes…What would be a great berry toned lipstick and/or gloss?
Thanks!!
Try Capricious, Plumful, or Rebel (for a very deep look) – Lovechild and Star Nova for a gloss!
Capricious was my very first MAC lipstick and my HG until I found Cosmo, but it is still one of my fav berries! Another great one would be from the To The Beach collection if you can still get it – Funbathing. If you’re looking for a higher end lipstick try Chanel Rouge Allure in Impertinente. A good drugstore one would be Rimmel Moisture Renew lipstick in Burgundy Lustre.
The above are just some that I like and I hope this helped = )
O is VERY similar to Funbathing, too, and perm 🙂
Hey christine,
for reference im NW20 with dark brown hair and brown eyes.
ive been looking for a really good bronzer since i look so so pale and was wondering what bronzer you would suggest and which MAC brush would you suggest using with the bronzer.
Im looking for something around the price of either NARS or MAC or any other brand with the same pricing.
Cargo Blu Ray Bronzer is great without turning orange! Or MAC Refined. I’d use the 168 brush.
awesome i’ll check those out thank you!
also what would be a good matte bronzer to contour with?
I prefer MSFN for contouring, just because it always looks more natural to me than bronzer. Otherwise, I would recommend maybe MAC Harmony.
thank you soo much!
Hi, Christine!
Can you recommend your best cleanser/makeup remover, please?
Thanks!
For all over, I love cleansing oils – Bobbi Brown, MAC, shu’s… love all of them. For eyes, I like Lancome’s Bi-facil.
Hi Christine,
For reference, I’m NC 40 and my brand preferences are Chanel (1st) followed by MAC.
What color blush and lipstick would you recommend for a smokey eye?
By the way, I loved all your looks when you posted the Chanel Fall colors!
Thanks,
Marie
I think the new Chanel shades would rock – Pink Explosion blush with Rose Dentelle lipstick for a smoky eye 🙂
Hi Christine!
This site is amazing, and I will not make a purchase if I didn’t see swatches or a review here first.
My question is about your time management. I know you’re in school in a mba/ law degree program. How do you find time for your course load and to run temptalia? Sorry if my question is too personal, I’m just wondering because I go to school and work full time and sometimes I forget to eat lol
Hi Sharon,
If I went to school and worked full time, I don’t know what I’d do with myself! I give y’all props (most of my MBA program works full time and goes to school part time in the evenings). I make a TON of to-do lists. I keep a calendar. I just keep track of everything I’m trying to get done and prioritize what needs to get done, what can not get done that day. My boyfriend handles all of the cooking, cleaning, laundry, etc. so I have more time to blog when I’m not doing school stuff. I’m VERY efficient – I say this in the sense that I really don’t like to waste time, and I only allot myself so many hours of the day (about one or two) for “goofing off.”
Thank you!!
Thanx Christine 🙂 It’s so cool to know that there are other things I can ask for your advice on. Next ask temptalia session I’ll inquire about your note taking strategies lol (j/k)
LOL! 😉 Sure!
Hi Christine,
I’m a NW10/15 (golden brown/light auburn hair & dark blue eyes if that matters for anything) and I’m looking for a powder to contour with (mostly for cheekbones, maybe some on the sides of my nose, etc)… nothing shimmery, and nothing that would look like stage makeup or drag on my fair skin. I’ve never really contoured before, and I don’t know where to start in my search (pixi2woo on youtube swears by MAC Harmony for any skin tone but I don’t know how well that would work for me)! Thanks so much!!
Hey Hannah,
You know what I like for contouring? Pressed powder in a shade 1-2 shades darker than your natural skin tone. Something like MAC MSFN in Light may even work for you.
Hi Christine!
Whenever I do my eye makeup, I feel like my “outer v”/crease color always looks like very pointy and never as soft as yours. Do you have any tips? I try to start in the crease, and draw a straight line down like yours, but it’s never rounded.
Hey Julie,
Soft, soft featherlight strokes! Light windshield wiper motions, but VERY, very light motions. The lighter the pressure, the more you blend.
You could use a blending brush with some highlighter/face powder on it to blend out the edges. Works for me 🙂 Or try drawing little circles in your outer V and working them inwards instead of using windshield wiper motions (maybe your eye shape isn’t rounded enough for the windshield wiper motions – am I making any sense?).
hi christine. im having trouble finding a really good liquid foundation brush that:
1) isnt so small that it takes forever to do in the morning (ie mac 130)
2) isnt too big that it doesnt get into the smaller areas (ie mac 187)
3) isnt very flimsy so it can blend well
Ideally i want a stippling brush and i am on the fence on whether to get the 188 or not. I’ve heard mixed reviews on it being flimsy and not able to blend well. i have the 131 and im debating on whether to keep it or return it for the 188. 131 is dense and firm but i like swirling in a circular motion which this brush doesnt do so well. however if the 188 is flimsier and not as dense maybe i’ll stick to the 131?
The brushes i currently own are the 187, 130, and 131. Not sure whether to keep 131 or not….
Please help! thanks!
The 188 is pretty small — the 130 does a better job of what the 188 would do foundation-wise and they’re really about the same size. The 109 might be a little bigger, but they’re all about the same in size. I think you’re kind of stuck between the 187 or 130.
The 131 is nice for cream blushes.
Hi christine…aww hope the session isnt over…i just checked temptalia now 🙁 anyway in case its still going on my questions are:
1. have u tried the NARS sheer glow raved foundation? i notice u use the MUFE one so was just wondering ur thoughts on it
2. i missed out on the 226 brush (the one u use on ur crease everytime) so sad is there a dupe of it from any other brand?
plz give mellan a hug from me 🙂 cheers! x
Hey Sum,
I haven’t tried it :/ I keep meaning to, but they were out of my shade the last time I tried to get it. I’d suggest the 222 or 224, or even the 272 on the slant. I don’t know of any dupes though 🙁
Will do! He loves him some hugs!
I would probably wait for the 226 to reappear sometime. It’s like Kanye at an award show. Pops up when you least expect it.
But seriouslt, I love the 226, use it every time. The 272 is a good alternative but it’s dc sadly 🙁 Go with the 222 if all else fails (so pretty much what Christine already told you, lol).
You can try to get your hands on a 226 on makeupalley.com I just swapped with someone for it and am awaiting its arrival.
More questions! Yippie!
1) My favorite Mac paint pot has dried out over time. Is there a safe way to re-moisturize it?
2) I love Mac greasepaint sticks, but they crease on my lid like crazy, even over a primer. Any tips?
3) I find a lot of red lipsticks come out pink or coral when applied. Have you found any true, blood/scarlet red lipstick? I’d prefer a slightly cooler red to a warmer one. Any brand is fine.
Hey Courtney,
1.) I microwaved mine (remove the lid!!), because I forgot to close the lid once, so it sat out for 48 hours and dried out quite a bit.
2.) Are you setting them with eyeshadow? I don’t use them very often since they do seem prone to creasing.
3.) Russian Red and VG I come out very, very red on me.
hi christine, I’m a new poster to this blog but im not a new reader! I love this blog very much and i have never posted a comment before i was waiting for the proper time to introduce my self LOL.. so anyways i have a couple of questions to ask…
im rather young but ever since i discovered this blog i read it EVERYDAY its the best! and i was wondering
1.what acne medication thingys are good for acne? I have ttried so much and im currently using proactiv but its not working!
2. is the urban decay naked palette limited edition?
3.what eyeliner would you reccomend that wont budge and is very black?
and lastly..
4.what brushes do you reccomend that are pretty cheap? I cant afford MAC brushes…
haha sorry i wrote a book. lots of questions were on my mind.. thanks for being patient! LOL 🙂
Hi Marissa,
Happy first comment! 🙂
1.) I like Mario Badescu for spot treatments (Drying Lotion/Drying Cream).
2.) It’s supposed to be permanent!
3.) MAC Blacktrack Fluidline stays really well for me, as well as their Liquidlast liner.
4.) EcoTools, Sonia Kashuk!
Thank you!
I’ve been wanting to buy a setting powder and was deciding between MACs blot powder and select sheer pressed powder? What would you suggest? And i’ve already tried the MSF natural but it made my face look pink and weird lookin..
If you’re oilier, Blot Powder, if you’re not, either is fine!
Hi Christine. My name is Miko and I was wondering if u knew of any good dupes for MAC Hello Kitty dazzleglass in Kitty Kouture? Thats my favorite dazzleglass but it was LE and I’d like to find a good dupe for it. Thanks 🙂
Maybe LORAC Cliche Multiplex?
so when it comes to makeup im basically a n00b, NC45 my skin is very oily and some acne (along with the scars) i like drugstore makeup sephora mac urban decay and nyx but i dont have much money if its worth it ill shell out the money so my questions are
1) i want to transition into color because i am very close to my neutral colors and purple but you are no stranger to bright colors how would i go about doing that, do you have any tutorials up? im also a little afraid of bright colored lipsticks such as lady bug by mac i have in my drawer
2)would tinted moisturizer be a good idea seeing as i cant seem find my color in drugstore foundations and they would make me feel all cakey, if so do you have suggestions on a moisturizer (something drugstore if possible) or maybe a good long lasting foundation from sephora or mac
3) could you perhaps give me a few lipstick suggestions and blush
4) would dubbonet look good on me?
5) have you tried elf brushes theyre not that bad for being a dollar i just ordered a few more since i own one mac brush so far
6) since i am new to the makeup world kind of i have mastered at least 2 looks completely, the eye diagram is quite helpful but nothing beats being shown on camera, i also had trouble with the crease is it on the line when its half closed or above the line slightly who knows? haha
7) what do you think of pin up looks? i have bamboo as a lid color and chocolate brown as a crease color what do you think for my color? the winged eye liner by itself is hard what i do is get a brush put it against my eye and it makes a line so both sides come out perfect what do you think of that idea?
8)
im sorry i asked so many questions i just want to learn 🙂 youre so helpful and i love the blog im a long time reader over like a year or more
thank you so much<3
Hey Lizard,
OK, so I’m hopefully answering the Qs I didn’t already answer – let me know if I miss one…
4.) Yes, Dubonnet would be lovely on you!
5.) I haven’t tried them yet, but I have a few I just received for testing.
6.) I tend to go a little above the line, but it depends on the look you’re going for! 🙂 To really define, then you go on the “line.”
Thank you!
Christine thank you so much for being patient and answering all my questions not matter how silly they sounded.
keep up the good work its amazing you get through these sessions in one piece.
thanks a bunch, love the blog
liz
It is always a pleasure! 🙂
oh shoot i just remembered the woman at mac said im a nc45 in mineralize does that make a difference? and i was looking for a foundation and i saw a chart and it said something about being more pink or yellow and i was so confused because i thought it was more about cool or warm
Nah, that doesn’t really make a difference!
Will Alice and Olivia be out at MAC counters and/or online @ Nordstroms? I missed out on MAC’s website for the Later pigment.
As far as I know, it’s just MAC stores and maccosmetics.com.
Thanks!
what is a good blush for NW45 ish skin – one thats not too old lady, and is under 30 bucks
MAC Ambering Rose!
Do you have any recommendations for nice false eyelashes (not MAC) and eyelash glue?
Can you give me a recommendation for a blush that will give this kind of look (baby doll cheeks): http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7Js6mOjdl1Y/S_wykKbg0DI/AAAAAAAAFW4/lh3Q2WOUZfs/s1600/img+%28147%29.jpg
I am light/medium (more light than medium, but not pale.) I have neutral/warm undertones.
Thank you so much!
Another example for the type of cheek color I’m looking for: http://ggggal.tumblr.com/photo/1280/766847572/1/tumblr_l4zfcwVCye1qandwm
The reason I’m asking is because they are very pale, so I don’t think the colors they use would look right on me. 🙁
Hi Ariel,
NYX & Ardell both make nice false lashes. Oh, Revlon, too! I like the Duo glue best, though.
For a blush, something like MAC Well Dressed or NARS Mata Hari or Angelika.
Hey Christine!
I, for the life of me, cannot seem to prevent my nailpolish from chipping. I could get it done at the salon, and it chips the next day. I do it at home, chips that night. Doesn’t matter whatr brand I use, I cannot wear nailpolish. I use a basecoat, 2 coats of polish, and a topcoat. What can I do to make my polish last?
You could try wrapping, which is when you deliberately paint under your nail, too – like you paint on the nail and over the edge and under, so you’re “wrapping” the tip.
To Christine:
1) I’m having trouble applying red lipstick. I can’t get a crisp line. Do you think a lip brush would help tremendously and if so, which one would you suggest? Any other methods that could work?
2) I’m having the hardest time finding a good perfume. I like sweet scents (vanilla-ey things). I found the perfect one a while ago but I can’t remember which one it was (d’oh!) – either Chanel or Dior.
3) What’s on top of your wishlist both beauty and non-beauty related?
4) Why are you so sweet and awesome?
To Shaun:
1) Do you ever get irritated by the heaps of makeup in the Other Bathroom?
2) Did you ever purposefully or accidentally use this Infamous Bathroom and NOT tell Christine about it? 😉
To Mellan:
1) I wuv you.
The makeup doesn’t really bother me. I would never really use that bathroom anyway just because I’d prefer to keep one bathroom clean and dirty up the other one so we don’t have to clean two bathrooms lol. I purposely avoid using that bathroom because it feels so claustrophobic whenever I’m in there. There’s literally MAKEUP EVERYWHERE the majority of the time, so I feel like even if I wanted to use the bathroom it would spring to life and beautify me to death.
1.) Yesss, a lip brush would help. But also? Concealer on the outer edge – like not on the lip, but around the edge, which will really give you that crisp, defined look. A little highlighting under the lip can make it pop more, too.
2.) Dior Addict <3 has a vanilla-y scent. I also like KenzoAmour, which is similar.
3.) Burberry Beauty right now, though I did cave on a bunch, LOL. Non-beauty related, probably a Kindle 😀
4.) Because I am made of lemonpops and cotton candy! I don't know but thank you for thinking so 🙂
I WUV U 2 ROXANNE~!
LOL
Chris! I am a NW15, almost NW20 sometimes, freckled cheeks and nose, sliiiightly pink. What MAC Blushes would you recommend to me, the most flattering ones? If there’s other brands, ok, just MAC would be a better reference. PS. LOVE YA!
Oh, forgot mentioning: I have natural red hair, not too orange! It’s a more auburn tone. And hazel eyes.
MAC Peaches, Breath o’ Plum; NARS Dolce Vita!
Thanks, Nienna 😉
How do I figure out my skin’s undertone? I think I’m warm, but not sure.
Look at the underside of your forearm: are the veins green or blue? Green = warm; blue = cool.
Hi Christine,
Thank you so much for all of your efforts! Your site is certainly “the” go to site for cosmetics news.
I think I have heard you say eye liners tend to trash your eyes. I am looking for a white eyeliner for the inner corner of my eyes, but have sensitive eyes also. Any brands with white that don’t bother you or that you like the best?
Just on the upper lash line, which I think is really just irritable – not so much the *product* but the feeling of anything in-between the lashes.
For whites, I like UD’s Yeyo!
what do you think of other beauty blogs that try to copy/imitate your blogging style/blog layout/grading method etc
i’ve noticed a bit that bite ur style, just wondered how u felt. y’all at hq do an amazing job, just fyi, in case u didnt already know 😉
I try to just tell myself “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.” It used to bother me, but now I’ve gotten over it and just keep on doing my own thing. I’d rather spend the energy/time writing a post than lamenting what someone else did!
Thank you!
Christine–what eyeshadow, blush combo would you suggest for salt and pepper hair, dark brown eyes, fair to medium skin (lancome porcelaine 25w)?
Hey!
I would try something like a satin-y champagne (maybe MAC Shroom) on the lid with a soft gray brown in the crease (maybe MAC Concrete or Coquette), then a satin-matte shade to highlight. For blush, a soft petal pink like MAC Well Dressed or soft plum like Breath o’ Plum.
Christine,
I have a few questions.
1) I am always looking for the perfect nude – I am half asian half black. In winter when I am pale I can wear Mac Blankety (looks terrible by itself) but with a gloss over. In summer I am much darker- maybe NC44 or laura geller balance and brighten in TAN worked for depth but can be a little ashy.
For my summer color, can you suggest a) a great nude lipstick b) a nice foundation with lots of yellow undertones for combination skin.
2) I have a friend who has a complexion of about Alek Wek. She lives in another country and I would like to get a present for her. She is pretty conservative and I know she likes Clinique lipstick in black honey.
Can you suggest
a) A lipstick
b) A blush
Hi Kim,
For a summer nude, have you tried Touch or Honeylove (by MAC)? For a foundation, Bobbi Brown’s foundations tend to pull yellow!
For your friend, I’d recommend something like MAC Rebel or Vegas Volt. For blush, NARS Exhibit A!
Hi Christine!! (so excited you decided to do this post!),
well i got my first job & paycheck soo im ready to spend some of it on makeup 🙂
& I am LOVING MAC right now soo what do you think are the must haves from MAC?? ( you can be generic because i know you have a million people to respond to)
thanks so much 🙂
oh yeah i am NC37 🙂
Try MAC Margin and/or Sunbasque blush! For eyeshadows, how about Patina, Bronze, or Naked Lunch/Jest?
Hi Christine,
I’m looking for some MAC (or others) blush recommendations. I’m NC 25-30, auburn hair and blue eyes and pretty freckly now that it’s summer. I’ve used NARS Orgasm, Deep Throat, and some of the blush ombres from MAC. I’m looking for some matte (or low shimmer) everyday wearable colors. Thanks!
p.s. Anytime you post a pic of Mellan, it makes my day! I’m looking to adopt another yellow lab (ours passed away earlier this year) and Mellan is my benchmark for the cuteness quotient!
MAC Peaches, Breath o’ Plum, NARS Dolce Vita!
Awwwww! Sorry to hear about your lab 🙁 But I’m excited to hear you’ll be adopting another one soon!
Come summer, I all of a sudden have little itchy pimples on my chin/chin area. Nothing is helping (haven’t changed face wash, tried BHA). I have normally oily-ish skin. No cystic pimples at all, just itchy bumpy type pimples. Any suggestions at all? 🙁
Hey Shah’ada,
I am not sure what’s causing it, other than the weather change, so it sounds a little too high-level for me to guess at 🙁
Do you have a preferred long wearing or waterproof mascara?
How often do you think acne prone skin should be exfoliated using the MIA?
So to layer blush for the summer what cream blush would you recommend to use alongside NARS Orgasm or Deep Throat?
What’s a good pressed powder I can use on the go for touch ups?
You know your how to videos, would you ever do a how you do your mascara. I know each person may do it slightly differently but I’m interested how you generally do yours.
And finally do you know of any good resources on how to do your blush/contouring/all that according to your face shape? Or does it matter?
Thanks Christine!
Hey Rosie,
1.) I tend to just use Maybelline’s Full ‘n Soft Waterproof if I want something waterproof. I rarely do, so I just buy a cheapie tube of Full ‘n Soft during the summer or if there’s an occasion that merits it.
2.) 2-3x a week
3.) Laura Mercier’s or MAC Blot Powder
4.) I can sure try – I think I’ve done it on camera, I think I just do the wiggle and move up method, lol.
5.) YouTube or else beauty books like Bobbi Brown’s Makeup Manual or Kevyn Aucoin’s books!
I love Nars lipglosses but I want to try lipsticks from the brand. Preferably a hot pink. What color would be best for my skintone? (I’m a MAC NW43 and a Bare Minerals “Medium Dark”)
NARS Funny Face!
a hot pink MAC lipstick suggestion would be great too!
Girl About Town or Lustering!
Thanks Christine 🙂
Hey Shaun!
Just wondering, what are your favourite qualities about Christine? What really attracted you to her in the first place? BTW, loved your most recent review.. so funny!
Thanks 🙂
Initially it was her beauty and smarts. Her intelligence is one of my main staying factors, as is her unrelenting work ethic that has rubbed off on me (to a degree, I’m hoping for more). Everything about me has improved as a result of being with her and I can’t thank her enough for all the things her and her family have done for me. I think a lot of our strengths complement each other, as is evident on the blog that she’s able to write and produce wonderful content while I can support it on the tech side of things. I’m glad you liked the review!
Hey Mellan!
What kind of shampoo do you use?!
My Mommy uses something that sounds like the Mellanator… FURRRRminator. And something with Oats in it. Oatmeal? I’m hungry!
Christine, I know you’ve raved about Exfolikate. I recently tried out the gentle formula and like it. Was wondering, what do you follow up with after exfolikate? Do you use her line of moisturizer as well and do you use the exfoliator once a week or more? Thanks!
I use ExfoliKate about two times a week, maybe three at most. I’d say every 2 days or so.
I do love her Oil-Free Moisturizer, but I follow-up with my night time moisturizer or day time moisturizer.
what is your favorite tinted moisterizer?
Kiehl’s or Korres!
I’m going to Hong Kong next week and I already know there’s gonna be so much walking and sweating involved. You think powder foundation will be better? Or maybe like MSF natural? What do you recommend?
Is there any sunscreen that you recommend so I can put it under my makeup and even on top of the makeup for touchup during the day?
Hey Angie,
Lighter the better for hotter climates, and yes, powder can help (more absorbent of the sweat/oil!)! MSFN could definitely work.
I’d recommend Shiseido’s SPF 55 (I think it’s 55) Lotion for face for under your makeup, and then I would try a spray-on (face!) for touch-ups.
Hey Christine,
I’m going to law school in September. Any tips??
Enjoy your summer before school 😛 Try to keep up with the reading! Legal Lines and outline books are amazing!
Mellan, are you into beauty like your Mom?! I’m thinking you are, because you are a handsome boy! My brother has a Lab just like you named Lucy. To bad we didn’t live closer, you’d like her!!!
I am a natural beauty! Does Lucy have a boyfriend?
A natural beauty you are! Nope, Lucy doesn’t have a boyfriend! She’s looking and I showed her a picture of you and a few words came out of her mouth. “He’s HOT!” When do I get to meet him?!
Tell her I said WHAT’S UP! Put in a good word for me!
I am an NW45. Do you think Stereo Rose would be a good pink for me to try. Can you also make other MSF color suggestions for me?
Thank You
Yes, I think so. Petticoat, too!
Why don’t you do any reviews on Eve Pearl products?
Just wondering(:
I don’t have anything from hers to review at the moment!
How much does it cost to have your own website?
It depends on the website – there is no generalized rate – because it matters what kind of content you have, how many people work on it, the size of the site, the site’s requirements/needs, etc.
As senior tech guy let me throw out some quick information.
If you are considering starting a blog or website then go with one of the free services first and build up a following. WordPress.com is probably your best bet as you can seamlessly switch to a domain hosted version if your site gets larger.
Hi Christine!
I have a question about a good concealer for me. I have dry-ish area around my eyes but overall combination skin (cheeks, t-zone) and very fine lines under the eyes (I’m 25). I am an NC30. Any price point but I’d prefer low-to mid range.
Thank you in advance!
I’d say MAC Moisturecover — it’s very creamy and thin, so it’s more moisturizing in my experience.
For Mellan, how do you pronounce your name? And have your mom and dad ever told you how they picked your name?
Like Melon! Like a watermelon! MM! They said they wanted to give me something to live up to, some explorer guy… what do I care about ancient history!
Okay what are some good products for me? I am NW15, verrrryy freckly, I really like MAC but I want to get into NARS, but Im kinda intimidated lol:) My eyes are super blue and I don’t like reallly heavy makeup. Thanks:)
NARS: All About Eve, Brazil, Caravaggio, Iceland, Portobello, Unconditional Love
NARS Lipglosses: Chihuahua, Belize, Striptease, Turkish Delight
NARS Lipsticks: Flair, Roman Holiday, Venice
NARS: Angelika, Dolce Vita, Riviera (Multiple), Sin
I guess I should specify! I mean what are some good eyeshadow/eyeliner, blush and lip products from both brands:) Not big into bronzer and I like my mascara/foundation.
From MAC…
Eyeshadows: Carbon, Cork, Dazzlelight, Espresso, Omega, Phloof!, Shroom, Smut, Tilt, Woodwinked
Lipglosses: Morning Glory (Lustreglass), Oyster Girl
Lipsticks: Angel, Dubonnet, High Tea, Hue, Odyssey, Sweetie, Syrup
Blushes: Breath o’ Plum, Cubic, Peachykeen, Well-Dressed
Oh whoops! I didnt see you replied haha 🙂 Just ignore that last one, what you said was perfect
Already done!
Christine! How on earth do you find the time (nope, not just a little bit of time….its evident you spend a LOT of time on your blog)? I know you’re doing professional studies…and I’m in the same boat. I love to blog but I’ll be lucky if I get enough time to write a post every day or two! Any secrets? tips? time-organizing strategies?? 🙂 Thanks. And to Shaun- does Christine have to keep reminding you to use a product or are you pretty good at keeping it up on your own? 🙂 Thanks a bunch!
Hey Jessica,
I try to do everything in blocks of time – rather than spend an hour studying, hour blogging, hour shooting photos, then repeat, I spent four to five hours doing reading or homework and then four to five hours doing blog-related stuff. It keeps me in the zone and focused on what I’m doing!
No, she doesn’t really remind me. I’ve just lumped using moisturizer into my routine, and a lot of the other products get used because the stuff I was using previously runs out. I just go into the shower and like magic there’s a new bath soap. I don’t really question how it happens, I just assume that magical fairies are keeping me in various body washes and moisturizers. I don’t know why they think I want to smell like Raspberry Sorbet though.
Hi Christine!
I’ve been meaning to ask you this for ages, so here it goes… is there any lipstick/lipgloss that is kiss-proof? Usually I go out with my boyfriend and he doesn’t like to get all sticky (and I don’t like to get all smudged).
If there is, could you please tell recommend me a colour that suits me? (my skin is very pale, about NC10 or 15, my eyes and hair are dark brown, my lips are really pigmented and I’m 22) I’m looking for anything that looks good but not too exuberant, maybe a coral or a darker pink.
Thanks in advance!
Hey AnaA,
MAC Pro Longwears! They have a longwearing lipstick (won’t budge or kiss off – pretty much only comes off with oil, so stay away from fried chicken!) and then a gloss (clear or shimmery) that goes on top. That’s probably the only one that’s really kissproof. The gloss isn’t sticky, either, so it’s not too bad on the boys.
Clingpeach and For keeps are both really pretty!
ok, so we can ask SHAUN a QUESTION…GOOD..
So Shaun: 1. which is your favorite fragrance, on yourself?
2. Do you ever plan to show your face on TEMPTALIA?
Hehe, this is kinda fun…lol!
I’d say my favorite fragrance on myself is freshly mowed grass. I don’t really use any type of colognes, but I did like this body wash that made me smell like salad. I will probably show my face eventually, but I have to figure out a clever way to do it. I’m not big on taking pictures.
Can you recommend an orange/red lipstick? For NC20 skin, brown hair and brown eyes. Thanks!
Lady Danger!
Hey Christine, please help me.
I am NC 45 in MAC Mineralize Satinfinish,
what would I be in mufe foundation mat + velvet and MAC’S Moisture Tint Foundaion?
What are great nude lipsticks for my skintone?
Can I pull off purple lipstick, if so what brand and color?
Thanks so much.
Tiffany
Hi Tiffany,
1.) Most likely 10W.
2.) Either Dark or Deep Dark.
3.) Touch, Honeylove, Freckletone
4.) YES! Try MAC Rebel or Up the Amp!
Hi,
I asked this earlier but my question never showed up for some reason so here it goes again!
I love Ali’s makeup look on the bachelorette and was wondering if you could help me recreate her look (products, colors, etc.)
Thanks so much!
Hey Isabella – it came through – did you check the other pages?
But I don’t watch 🙁
Hi Christine!
For refernce, I’m NC35 with pigmented lips.
I love me some coral and pink lipsticks but when I go to MAC I ~ALWAYS~ get distracted by all the pretty colors. xD
What are some you might reccommend for me?
I’d also like to know a nude lipstick since I tried Creme d’Nude and it looked too white on me. xD
Thanks so much! 😀
Hey Wendy,
For corals/pinks, I’d recommend Crosswires, See Sheer, Bombshell, and Lustering.
For a nude, you could try Honeylove or Freckletone!
Thanks for answering!
Also, which brush do you recommend for blending eyeshadows on the crease: 217 or 224?
I want to get one, but I’m not sure what the difference would be.
Thanks again!
For blending, the 217, for depositing, the 224! But to be honest, you can blend with the 224, too.
Shaun – How long do you typically have to wait for Christine to get ready? If she takes a while, have you just gotten used to waiting around for the beauty routine to be completed? Do you ever just get sick of makeup? Do you ever worry about her safety or negative feedback? When are you going to put a [lipgloss] ring on her left hand? j/k, you don’t have to answer that one. 😉 Thanks!
Christine doesn’t usually take very long to get ready. The main wait is for her to get off the computer when we are planning on going somewhere. We have a rule now that if we’re about to leave she can’t get on the computer or we’re guaranteed to be late. I don’t really get sick of makeup, it’s a hobby like anything else and if it makes her happy then I support her fully. Christine’s a smart girl so I don’t worry too much about her safety, and negative feedback is an unfortunate portion of the internet that is expected. We can only control what we do, and hope people understand that our intentions are good. And… I choose to refrain from answering that last question! lol
Hi Christine!
I purchased coral crepe paint pot a while ago, and I am having a really hard time trying to find a way to wear it on my eyes that won’t make me look ridiculous. For reference, I have light skin and dark brown hair. I did check out the tutorial that you did using it as a base, but I don’t own many of the eyeshadows that you used in the look. How can I make the color not so harsh on my eyes?
Thank youu!
Aww! Try using it with lighter shades like Nylon, Ricepaper, Shroom, Vanilla, Dazzlelight – and light browns like Soba, Soft Brown, and Swiss Chocolate.
Hi Christine,
If you’re still answering questions, I have a quick one:
I’ve been using Armani Lasting Silk foundation for a year or so, and I really like it, but I’m interested in trying Chanel’s Mat Lumiere. How do they compare? Is one better than the other? Thanks!
Erica
Hey Erica,
I think they’re fairly similar. Chanel’s may have a more matte finish. I haven’t tried either, so I can’t say from experience, just by descriptions and what I’ve read/heard. I know that most people seem to LOVE Giorgio Armani foundations. Can’t say I’ve heard many complaints!
Mellan what do you think of mommy spending a lot of her time on a computer? Do you ever pull out cords so she cant go on and u get to spend more time with her?
Shaun what do you do in your spare time when you aren’t locked in a room coding and editing videos? Do you ever wish Christine didn’t do the blog? Have there ever been times when the blog “mysteriously” crashed for a few hours?lol
Lately, I’ve been doing a lot of working out and exercising. I like to read, and I’ve been known to get addicted to the odd video game or two (I’m looking at you Red Dead Redemption.) I don’t ever wish Christine didn’t blog. I’m so proud of what Temptalia has become and the hope of what is in-store for it. I have grey hair from times when the blog has mysteriously crashed in the middle of the night! So, no I’ve never done that on purpose because I’d probably be pushing up daisies if I did 😛
I’m glad you find time to do other things you enjoy which I’m sure Christine encourages you to do since u do so much for the site. Its amazing how you two support and encourage one another and partake in the others interest. I hope to find that some day tho I wont hold my breath. I wish you two a happy life together. I can imagine you would be pushing up daisies and pulling out other things if you did and she found out. Have fun with Red Dead Redemption!
THANK YOU TO FOR SUCH AN AMAZING SITE!!!!!!!!!
SHE’S NO FUN. Sometimes she is so busy that I have to bug Daddy to feed me. And when Daddy is busy, then I wipe my nose all over Mommy’s clothes and that usually gets her going!
Sometimes, I sit in her chair. And then I chat with my peeps!
Mellan you are to cute thanks for letting mommy do her blog and for letting her take such adorable pics of you to share. Stay off those no no sites when talking to your peeps 🙂 I don’t think mommy would want you looking up chocolate cake recipes you know it’s not good for you.
Hi Christine!
I have oily eyelids, and whenever I put on gel eyeliner with some Two Faced Eye Insurance underneath, and even with black eyeshadow on top of it to secure my eye liner, it STILL smudges on to the top of my eyelid/transfers to the upper part of my eyes. I do have asian monolids. Do you have any suggestions for me?
Also any good easy to use precise long lasting black pencil eye liners would you suggest for everyday use?
Thanks again!
Also, why did you choose the name Mellan for your dog?
Hey Michelle,
Try applying Benefit She-Laq or MUFE Eye Seal over the liner — it should REALLY help!
I think Prestige is the brand that does a drugstore option – I like UD’s Zero or MUFE Aqua Eyes for pencil.
He’s named after Magellan, the explorer, and it somehow got shortened to “Mellan!”
I have a question. How in the world do you get a guy to start using cleansers and creams? My hubby does it only if I do it for him…but that’s not always possible since we already have a 16 month old. I love my hubby dearly…I try to do it for him…but it really isn’t all that possible. Help?
If they aren’t open to the change then it’s going to be super difficult for you to convince them. The only advice I can really give is to stress to them that it will solve a skin problem they may have, such as: Dry Skin, Oily Skin, or Acne. The other important tip is to make it as easy as possible, and to somehow inject it into their routine. Guys can get very regimented, and if you are able to find a way to get them started then you will be surprised how fast it is kept up on a regular basis.
hi to christine, shaun and mellan!
okay, so personal questions. if you refuse to answer, i will understand!
shaun: just wondering what you do for a living? and if you’re colleagues know of your contribution to this site?
christine: how can you afford your hobby? especially while attending school?
thanks!
Hey Alice,
The site is ad-supported, but I do get a lot of products sent from PR/brands, which helps me keep my budget in line!
I do Web Design as a full-time job, and I’m not embarrassed at all to talk about the blog because I’m so proud of it. I get the occasional razzing from my friends about the site, but nothing I can’t handle 🙂
Hi Christine!
What’s the difference between MAC’s 187 Duo Fibre Brush and MAC’s 188 Duo Fibre Face Brush? What’s the best to apply highlighter?
What’s the best brush to apply finishing powder, like MAC’s Blot Powder? I was thinking the 134 but it’s so darn expensive. Alas… a girl’s gotta do what a girl’s gotta do.
Thanks. (:
The 187 is bigger and more flared than the 188, which is smaller. I find the 188 is better for highlighting – more precision!
I like the 134 <3 I used to use the 150, but what a waste! 134 all the way, LOL.
Okay, thanks! But, why was the 150 a waste??
‘Cause I never use it for anything now! The 134 is so far superior!
Gotcha! Thank you. (:
i have a question for shaun!
about how many hours a week do you spend working on the techy stuff for temptalia.com?
thanks!!
8 – 12 hours a week, give or take. The videos are the longest day to day project, but the redesigns can add up to some pretty hefty hours!
Hi Christine,
I have 2 questions – hope that’s okay 🙂
1. It seems like every eyeshadow out there says it doesn’t fade and doesn’t crease, even without a primer, but it’s never the case. Is there any pressed eyeshadow brand out there (really, anywhere on the planet, whatever price) that really doesn’t crease without a primer?
2. I really like the feel of soft, buttery, eyeshadows (stila and lorac come to mind), but I don’t like that they are a bit powdery on application. I prefer the staying power of less buttery shadows. Can you recommend any brands that have that soft feel like stila but aren’t as powdery and have more staying power on the lid? Or are those criteria mutually exclusive?
Thank you so much for everything you do for us, especially taking your time out for something like this!
Sabrina 🙂
I’ve had Cle de Peau last without creasing on my lids (but keep in mind, I don’t have SUPER oily lids or anything).
Yeah, unfortunately… soft and buttery kind of goes well with powdery. I know what you mean, it’s like powdery, but not BAD powdery (where it’s just a big mess and no pigmentation, yada yada) but yeah. Some of MAC’s eyeshadows, like veluxe pearls and Starflash finishes, have that semi-buttery feel without the mess. UD’s Deluxe Shadows are the same way.
Hey Christine!
Hope you had a great 4th of July.
I’m a NC 35; I was wondering if you could recommend some coral and pink colored lipsticks/lip glosses? And I also just got my first eye shadow palette, could you suggest some MAC eye shadow colors I should start investing in?
Thanks!
Hi Mariam,
Corals: Crosswires, See Sheer, Vegas Volt, Lychee Luxe
Pink: Sweetie, Creme Cup, Angel, Lustering, Angelwing, Luminary
Eyeshadows: it really depends on what you want – colors, neutrals? I’d rather you have a set you can work with, because while I could recommend you four great shades, I don’t know if they’d work together, LOL!
Sorry, forgot to mention the colors I’m looking for. I’m looking for some pinks and blues. Thanks again. 😀
Pinks: Da Bling, Swish
Blues: Freshwater, Deep Truth, Tilt
Hi Christine!
I live in Maine and we usually have mild summers but this year…oh boy! It’s hot, hot, hot! I have oily skin already but this heat and humidity is really doing a number on my skin and makeup.
I have tried the Rimmel Fix and Perfect primer as well as BareEssentials Prime Time. Neither have been terribly effective. I’m still getting really shiny! What primers do you recommend? For reference, I probably won’t pay more than I did for Prime Time.
Smashbox Anti-Shine!
Dear Christine,
What’s the best product or highlighter (preferably a powder?) to give a glow to cool toned complexions? Also, my concealer makes my under-eye area look grey-green… Have you any good recommendations for undereye concealers that can make dark circles look healthier?
I love Dior Rose Diamond for cooler skin tones or Guerlain’s Beige Chic Meteorites.
Try a peachy concealer instead – like Eve Pearl’s Salmon Concealer!
Hi Christine!
I was just wondering if you’ve found any combos you really love using UD’s Naked palette. I ordered mine from Sephora today and I can’t wait to get it!
Also, random question – do you have Henna eyeshadow? I found it at my CCO and I love it! It reminds me of Sumptuous Olive, but lighter…
Thanks for doing this – you’re awesome!
Just the two looks I’ve done with it on the blog so far, lol!
I think I have it – it is very pretty 🙂
Yeah, I am kinda obsessed with it now. I just keep telling people about it. Hahaha. I also found Moss Scape PP, which I was super excited about!
I have another random question: when two people post comments with the same name, do you know if it’s two different people or not? Or do all the comments/names just blend together?
I do, ’cause I answer comments on the back end, so I can see the email address you use, too 😀
Hey Christine! Just want you to know I LOVE your blog. I literally visit your website everyday. Any way I’ve been looking for a good tinted moisturizer for my skin that doesn’t make me look oily. (I have a slightly oily t-zone and NW40 skin) I haven’t tried any yet so I don’t really know where to start. I’m also looking for a moisturizing under eye concealer, sheer-to-medium coverage powder, and a nude lipstick with a pink tone to it. Thank you!
Oh and one more thing. Is the MAC Studio Finish Concealer really all that and a bag of chips? Or does it look cakey?
Kiehl’s or Korres! Korres has more of a matte finish but a smaller shade selection.
For an eye concealer, maybe theBalm’s Time Balm 🙂 Sheer-to-medium coverage powder would be Studio Fix, though I haven’t used it in FOREVER. I also like Clinique Almost Powder. A nude lipstick with a pink tone to it… try Hue.
I don’t like Studio Finish. I find it like paste. Or was that Studio Sculpt concealer, LOL.
Thank you!
PS. Do you know of a nice, flattering pink lip color that is close to neutral but on the warm side? I’m cool toned with dark hair and brown eyes, but have warm/neutral characteristics and have found that slightly warm (but not TOO warm) colors suit me. Any recs?
MAC Sweetie, Bombshell, Speed Dial are all kind of neutral, maybe a smidge warm.
Hi Christine! My Mother wants to know the best tinted moisturisers and foundations that won’t settle into pores or lines… Something that looks and feels good on the skin. What do you think would be best?
Lancome’s tinted moisturizer is really nice – great finish and wears really well.
Shaun!
When are you going to pop that question huh?! U know she/we’re waiting for the temptalia wedding/baby(ies)!
COMMITMENT, KIDS?!?! AHHHH!!!! *RUNS*
Hi Christine,
I am Asian and I have a problem wearing eye shadow because of the shape of my eyes. One has a noticeable over-crease, while the other is an under-crease (and is not as obvious). This I feel causes problems because my eyes don’t look even, and when I wear eye shadow I am afraid it will draw attention to this imbalance! Is there a way to work around this?
Thanks!
PS I LOVE YOUR WEBSITE & the work you do!!! <3 <3 <3
Hey Kat,
Try to avoid super super dark shades in the crease, because it will emphasize the imbalance. What you can do is be lighter on one eye and a little darker than the other – but do so subtly, to help bring the two into the same focus.
1) What mascara do you recommend for full, long, and curled lashes?
2) What are the essential brushes you would recommend from mac? (Especially bronzer/contour and blush brushes, and eyeshadow brushes)
3) Which product/brand’s formula of body lotion do you like the best?
4) What facial moisturizer do you recommend for me? I have combination skin, and want a day moisturizer, and other seperate night moisturizer.
Thank you!!! And any price for all of the questions!
Hey Haley,
1.) Wait, do YOU have full, long, curled lashes naturally (no fair!) or is that what you want? For the former, Bobbi Brown’s Everything Mascara – it’s natural so it doesn’t add too much length or volume, but it gives you a nice finished effect. If you *want* that effect, then I like Dior Extase.
2.) Bronzer – 184, Contour – 168, Blush – 116, Eyeshadow – 239, 217, 224, 208, 266
3.) My favorite has been Jo Malone’s lately, but I love how it’s REALLY scented and long-lasting.
4.) I like Kiehl’s SPF 15 Moisturizer for something no frills. I also like Kate Somerville’s Oil-Free, but it doesn’t have SPF. For night, I like Origins Ultra Rejuvenating, which may be heavy for your skin type. I’d thus recommend something like Korres 24H Rose.
Thanks girl! P.s mad props to you, Shaun, and Mellan for answering ALL of these questions today! And one more question, does Mellan do long distance relationships? I have a sassy black shih-pooh who is always on the lookout for a stud!
Mellan is way too needy. He needs him a local girl, but he’s also a bit of a player…
I’m asking this because nobody seems to have asked it yet… What are the best products for minimizing large pores?
Clinique’s Pore Minimizer is supposed to be pretty good!
Hi Christine,
Could you recommend a good black lipstick? Thank you 🙂
To get a good black lip, it’s more about layering. Better to just go with a really dark lip liner or black eyeliner (if you’re adventurous), then layer with a black lipstick.
Hi Christine! Just wanted to ask if you know anywhere to see/get a hold of Paul & Joe cosmetics or Anna Sui cosmetics in person? I’m in California, and the only options reps from both companies gave me was either online, or in New York (Anna Sui’s only store is in NY, Paul and Joe is offered at Bergdorfs). Was hoping you had some insider tips on where to see either? While on the topic of Anna Sui beauty… just wanted to know if there’s any chance (long shot but I figured I might as well ask) you’d be reviewing any of their products ?
I’ve never seen it in person other than briefly at Bergdorf’s in NYC. I review very, very limited Paul & Joe, and definitely no Anna Sui. I just reviewed a Paul & Joe lipgloss today.
Hi Christine,
My first question is for my mom, she’s 65 and wants a foundation that will not look cakey on her and will not accentuate her wrinkles and her skin is dry … what do you suggest?
Second, i wear mostly hot pink lipsticks, what color of blush and eyeshadows would usually match it? I’m NC25/NC30 in reference.
Last, i have oily skin, what foundation or powder would best suit my type of skin? I currently use mac studio fix powder plus foundation. I’m thinking of getting their blot powders.
Thanks.
Hi Ellie,
For your Mom, I’d recommend Bobbi Brown’s Natural Finish Foundation – it’s lightweight, slightly dewy, and should look nice on her skin.
For blush/eyeshadows to coordinate with hot pink lipsticks, I recommend either purple or pink blushes like MAC Well Dressed, Plum Foolery, or Breath o’ Plum; eyeshadows like neutrals, pinks, or purples.
Studio Fix Powder is good for oily skin! Blot Powder is also a fave for a lot with oily skin.
A question for you, your boy, and possibly your dog, too:
For the horde, or for the alliance?
We’re both For the Horde! 😉 Mellan, too, if only because we wouldn’t let him choose, LOL.
I am totally naming my goblin Labrasnore.
OH…Good answer! “For the alliance” just sounds so weird!
I’ve spent way too much time already thinking about names for my goblin, too. 🙂
what is a good mac lipgloss for nc35?
MAC Lychee Luxe!
what blush do you recommend for people with nc35 skintone
MAC Ambering Rose! 😀
Hey Christine!
This is soo awesome of you to do this! I read your blog everyday!
I was wondering if the MSFs Petticoat and By Candlelight from MACs In the Groove would suit my complexion….sorry, but I’ve never been colormatched at MAC, so I don’t know what shade I am, but I am very fair with soft yellow undertones, blue eyes, and dirty blonde hair. I hope this isn’t too much trouble as I don’t know my shade!
Thanks again!!
Either one would! 🙂
Hi Christine!
How can I know which color of blush I`m gonna use to match my eyeshadow color?
For ex.: I used rice paper to highlight, expensive pink on my lower lid with woodwinked in the crease and mulch in the outer crease, which blush I`m gonna use?
I mean, can you help me the color of blush i can pair with the color of eyeshadow?
Hey Kika,
For me, I find it’s trial and error — it’s just finding what works, what doesn’t. I do like to try to match my blush to my lips (plum lips, plum blush).
Hi Christine,
Can you tell me of a good skin lightener? I would like to lighten my freckles as much as possible without having to use a very heavy foundation. ( I have fair skin) Thank you so much!
I have not tried any skin lighteners unfortunately, Bre 🙁
ello! what are ur must have illamasqua lip gloss shades? and do you have any conclears that you love?
Gosh, that’s hard! I really love them all — they’re just so intense, and I think it matters what you personally like most.
I like Eve Pearl’s Salmon Concealer, theBalm’s Time Balm!
This is for the Tech Guy! Please make the tags easier to search for! I wanted just flat out “MAC Pigment” but that was … impossible?
MAC Pigment is not a tag that we have.
crap! i know this session is technically closed but i just wanted to know, how do you carry your brushes while traveling? do you bring a whole brush role? or do you have a travel brush kit?
I use MAC’s brush roll!
I absolutely love doing the smokey eye look, but (being hispanic) I find that I’m limited in my color range and I’m bored of the same ones I use! I generally stick to browns, blacks, and purples. Do you have any suggestions (I don’t have any brand preferences)
Why not try greens and teals?
hi! I’m Anabel i never try a lipstick before so.. i don’t know what color get i love mac cosmetics and i’m usually do smokey eyes, i love pinks can u recommend a shade of lipstick for smokey eyes? im a light skin tone brown ayes and dark brown hair thanks!
You could try Hue or Angel!
hi christine, i know the session is over, but is there a way you keep track of your images online since u don’t watermark them to prevent others from stealing and claiming it as theirs?
thanks.
I rely on the community to help me find those who use my images, and I send letters to those that I can. I find watermarks pretty hideous, so for now, I’ve chosen to continue to not use them.
Can you tell me which 88 palette is better. BH cosmetics or Coastal Scents can’t decide which company to buy from.
I’ve never tried the BH one.