Beauty Buzz: Strike A Pose With Cover FX's Derek Selby!

Hello Makeup Junkies! It's been a week since I've come back from Paris and I'm trying to adjust to the madness that is my life. There's definitely no easing back into the routine of things when you have kids! 

To kick off my first post in May, I'm calling out all the Cover FX fans to come out May 10 from 1 pm - 2 pm at the Bay/Queen St. location and strike a pose with Cover FX National Makeup Artist and Cityline Beauty Expert, Derek Selby! I pretty much watch Cityline Fashion Friday's religiously and love watching Derek do the makeovers. You can be sure to see him working with some of his favourite Cover FX products. 

An oldie but a goodie, you can read about my SkinPrep FX review here. I've become a big fan of Cover FX's foundation that also doubles as a concealer. It's a staple in my kit and I use it on all my clients. They are very easy to blend and can be sheered out if you need a lighter coverage. MintTint FX in Pink Copper (will have to do another post with a swatch) has become a new favourite gloss! I adore the shade because it's quite unique from a lot of glosses I own. The pink and copper together give it a good mix of warmth that really works for all skin tones. I remember at the first blogger event Cover FX had, I fell in love with the #160 brush and now I own 2 of them. It's that good. It really buffs the foundation into the skin without leaving visible streaks and it just feels so super soft! What's not to love about a healthy glow? Bronzed FX in Golden Peach  is another one of those shades that looks good on everyone. I've even seen Derek use it on the eyes as a shadow and it works! 

If you're in the area, be sure to pick up Derek's favourite products and get your photo taken with him! 

Products were sent for editorial consideration and I truly love them. 

Beauty Feature: Save Your Skin!

Save Your Skin! by makeupjunkie13 on polyvore.com

How's your skin doing this winter? Feeling a little tight? Looking a little flaky and dull? Add not drinking enough water to the mix and lack of sleep and you've got my skin - one big wrinkly mess. I hate to say it, but I've really been noticing my fine lines and wrinkles under my eyes (insert sad face). Well, I'm happy to say I think I have finally found a skin care routine my skin is happy with! This is major. I get to try tons of skincare and I never really commit to anything. I am no longer a commitment-phobe. These lovely products are now a skincare staple!

Spring is just around the corner (wishful thinking) so save your skin now! 

1. Korres Wild Rose Face & Eye Serum ($49 CAD, Bestseller): I have found my new serum. While I love my Bobbi Brown one, Korres' has stolen my heart. It's a brightening serum for the eyes and face and it is meant to smooth fine lines. It contains Wild Rose oil, Vitamin C, Baobab gel, Ginseng extract, Quince extract, provitamin B5. Sounds amazing right? It's a multivitamin for your skin. I love how radiant my skin looks. I've only been using it for a week so I haven't noticed a big difference in the appearance of my fine lines, but the brightening effect helps minimize the appearance. 

Korres is known for being an all-natural line so I love knowing my skin isn't being fed with yucky chemicals. Another bonus is that you can use it on the eyes like an eye cream - one less product you have to buy. Compared to a lot of serums out there, this is a much more affordable option. It's not cheap by any means, but it's mid-range so it's affordable to most of us. It's a 30 ml bottle so we'll see how long it last, but one pump is all you need to cover the face. This is definitely one serum that I will be purchasing when this one runs out! 

2. Korres Wild Rose 24 - hour Moisturizing and Brightening Cream - Normal to Dry Skin ($44 CAD, Bestseller): This with the serum is a powerful combo. I LOVE this moisturizer! I had my favourites from 2011, but this one by far takes the cake! Besides looking uber luminous, my skin feels plush - that's plump and lush. It's so pillow-y soft! The best part is that my skin never has a surprise flaky patch later on in the day. Again, it contains the same ingredients as the serum so your skin is getting double dose of Vitamin C. Your skin will be in repair mode all day long so I have high hopes for my skin! It's a 40 ml container at $44 so mid-range and affordable compared to other brands. Since it's a richer moisturizer, you only need a little at a time. You get the perfect amount of hydration minus the heavy, greasy feeling. Another staple for me!

3. Cover FX Skinprep FX Nourishing Foundation Primer and Anti-Aging Serum ($45 CAD): I love Cover FX. You get high-quality makeup that performs with anti-aging benefits. If you get a chance to see my kit, you'll see many of their primers. While you can use this particular one as a serum at night, I prefer to use it as a primer before foundation especially on drier and mature skin. I use this one on myself because it hydrates my dry skin especially during the winter. Once you apply it, your skin feels extremely smooth and makeup just applies so easily. It really creates a perfect canvas. Because it helps blur out fine lines and pores, you end up having to use less foundation. You're makeup will also wear longer with minimal touch-ups. This is a definite kit staple for me and it should be for you too! 

4. Ole Henriksen Black Current Perfecting Complexion Oil ($32 USD): This product is my introduction to Ole Henriksen products. All I can say is that I'm so glad we met! I've come across a few face oils in the past but I never really used them mostly because my skin just felt heavy after. This oil helps protect your skin from the elements and this is definitely something you should use for the cold winters. It also contains Vitamin E that repairs the skin from environmental damage. It's a rich oil so I've decided to make it apart of my night routine and use it like a serum. Surprisingly the rich texture turns into a light, calm, and refreshed feeling on the skin. Mixed with my night cream, my skin feels like butta'! The first time I used it, I couldn't stop touching my face. I even made the hubby touch it! Obsessed with this product. You only need a few drops of this to cover the whole face so it'll last you a while until you have to replenish. Again, the price is mid-range and definitely affordable. 

5. Korres Quercetin & Oak Anti-Aging and Anti-Wrinkle Night Cream ($59 CAD, Bestseller): This night cream is no joke. It provides intense anti-ageing nourishment throughout the night. Quercetin and Oak is a clinically proven natural alternative to Retinol. Retinol is used in every anti-aging cream out there so why not go for a natural version that has been proven to achieve faster results? I'd have to say this is richer than my beloved La Mer cream and it's double or even triple the price! It's insane how soft my skin feels after I apply it - I am not exaggerating. My dry skin loves a rich cream, but not if it makes my skin feel greasy and this does NOT. I've been using it for a week and I can already see a difference in the texture of my skin. It's smoother and it's cured my flaky, dehydrated skin! Love, love this stuff. 

All products are available at Shoppers Drug Mart across Canada and Sephora. 

Products were sent for editorial consideration and I truly love them. 

How To Beat The Bed Rest Blues: Makeup Part 1

Many of you may think I'm ridiculous for even bothering to wear makeup while I'm in the hospital, but to prevent myself from getting deeply depressed, putting on makeup puts me in a good mood. Plus, it forces me to have some sort of routine and purpose for getting up in the morning. Many nurses have asked me if I was being discharged because I'm wearing makeup and wearing normal clothes and when I get wheeled to my ultra sounds, I get a few stares because I'm not wearing the typical hospital garb. One of my favourite nurses, Esther, told me that oddly enough pregnancy looks good on me - I'll take it! Guess I should be pregnant all the time! ha!

Now, don't go thinking I'm wearing a full face of makeup. I'm wearing enough to make me look polished and playing on that "pregnancy glow". Check out which products have been keeping this face in check!

1. Nanoblur ($19 CAD): I've had this product for a while and haven't really had much chance to test it out. I decided I'd use Nanoblur because it could blur out any imperfections that my minimal makeup wouldn't cover up. If you don't know the genius of Nanoblur you'll want to know it. It's not a skincare product but a quick fix for when you need to look 10 years younger in a matter of seconds. It blurs fine lines, wrinkles, redness, minimizes pores and even mattifies the skin making it appear more even and less shiny. It works really well as a primer too. In seconds, I can really notice a difference in the texture and appearance of my skin. I don't have very big pores, but around my t-zone area they are more prominent. As soon as I apply this stuff, it instantly smooths out. The texture applies thick and is more suited for drier or mature skin types but I'm sure would work well on oily skin too in smaller amounts especially since it mattifies. I do find that you have to work it into the skin fast because it absorbs quite quickly. You also have to let it set for a few minutes or else your foundation or concealer won't blend nicely. Great thing is that you can apply when you're on the run over your makeup for a mid-day perk-me-up. It's a great quick fix at such an affordable price!

2. Cover FX SkinTint FX SPF 30 in M Light ($39 CAD): Just because I'm not getting any sun doesn't mean I can't fake it. As mentioned in a previous post, SkinTint FX has been my go to TM. Packing this one for the hospital was an obvious choice for me. It gives me a sun-kissed, radiant glow while giving me some coverage. I don't want to look like I'm made up and SkinTint looks so close to my natural skin. If you're not in the loop, Cover FX wants you to help them spread the word about skin cancer! For the month of June, with every new "Like" on their FB page, they will donate $0.25 to skin cancer research: David Cornfield Melanoma Fund Fund in Canada, The Skin Cancer Foundation in the US and SKCIN, The Karen Clifford Skin Cancer Charity in the UK.

3. Smashbox Photo Op Under Eye Brightener ($18 USD): This one is an oldie but a goodie! I've been using Photo Op for years to brighten under my eyes (read past post here). If you don't suffer from severe dark circles, you can get away with using this as your normal concealer. But for someone that does need more coverage, this helps brightens the under eyes under your concealer. Instead of taking a full coverage concealer with me, I only packed Photo Op because again I didn't want to look too done up. This brightens and gives a luminous effect and if I apply a few layers it covers up the darkness alright. I've also been using it to highlight the inner corners of my eyes, my brow bones and my cheekbones!

4. Urban Decay Naked Palette ($58 CAD): This has to be my HG of neutral palettes! I've been dieing to get my hands on this ever since its launch and every time I went to a Sephora it was sold out. One of my BFF's was doing a little makeup shopping at her local Shoppers and asked me about Urban Decay. Seeing how she's in the Durham region, I was surprised to know that this location carried UD products. I immediately asked if the Naked palette was in stock and to my surprise it was! She snatched it up for me and now we are forever buds. There are a ton of reviews and swatches out there so I'm sure you know what all 12 shades look like. I love the mix of shimmery, matte and satin tones making it an ideal palette for everyday, bridal and for more dramatic looks. I've used it on a lot of my clients and this is one palette I use on myself whenever I go out. I don't use it everyday at the hospital but when I know a visitor is coming I'll emphasize my eyes a little. The shadows I use the most are: Buck (matte brown), Half Baked (bronze), Smog (golden brown shimmer), Dark Horse (bronze-plum shimmer) and Hustle (mocha shimmer). 

5. Lancome Hypnose Doll Lashes Mascara ($34 CAD): There hasn't been a Lancome mascara that I've been disappointed with. If you love the lengthening effect of the Hypnose line, you will love the feathery, voluminous finish of the new Doll Lashes mascara (unscented version for Canada). Here's what I love: 

• gorgeous, feathery, and voluminous
• the conical brush allows you to get at every lash and at the root
• love the subtle sheen and the shade is a deep, dark black
• gives a very dramatic lash with a few swipes
• lashes feel very soft to the touch

What I didn't love: 

• I found the handle of the brush a little big and awkward to hold
• didn't give my lashes as much lift as compared to other brands I've tried. The length was just ok for me. 
• the softness of the lash didn't hold the lift and caused my lashes to droop later on in the day
• I prefer water-proof versions. This one was the regular mascara and did smudge on my bottom lash line.

I'm curious to try the water-proof version (if one is released) and see if the lift, hold, and smearing is better. But I really do love the "doll-like" effect it gives. I received the one that is rose scented and actually don't mind it but I think most will appreciate the non-scented version. This mascara will be available mid-August. 

Have you tried any of these products? Stay tuned for part 2 of my makeup must-haves!

Products were sent for editorial consideration (with the exception of the UD Naked Palette) and I truly love them!

Joy Approved: Skin Savers

Find out why I love using these skin saving products! Visit The Joy of Makeup here to read my post!

Summer Beauty Review: Are Tinted Moisturzers Created Equal?

Spring is just beginning here in Toronto, but I see summer skies on the horizon! My skin is starting to behave now that the weather is turning a bit warmer which means I can put away my heavier foundations! I've been living on tinted moisturizers since April, but my skin is still needing a bit of coverage. If you're deciding to make the switch to a tinted moisturizer, there's a few things to keep in mind. 

Are tinted moisturizers created equal? I've been test driving 3 since March and each one has their good and not-so-good features. Here's what I thought and what worked for me and will hopefully work for you!

The Tints:

mark by Avon Get A Tint Tinted Moisturizer Lotion SPF 15 ($10 USD): Light-weight and oil-free. Gives enough coverage and shimmer for a balanced glow. Unique skin-balancing formula hydrates while it prevents shine in those spots prone to excess oil. Available in Ivory/Nude, Buff/Natural, Honey/Golden, Almond/Mocha.

Clinique Moisture Surge Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15 ($30 CAD): Light-weight hydrating formula that protects the skin with SPF and covers imperfections naturally for a no-makeup look. Available in 6 shades. 

Cover FX Skintint FX Treatment and Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30 ($39 CAD): Rejuvenating liquid mineral treatment. Pearlized minerals provide tinted sun-kissed looking skin. Perfect for dry, sallow, sensitive or sun-damaged skin. Oil-free, fragrance-free, and paraben-free. Available in C Light, C Deep, E Light, E Deep, M Light, and M Deep. 

The Coverage (T-B in photo):

mark by Avon in Buff/Natural: The most economical out of the 3, this tint actually gives some coverage! The formula didn't feel heavy or greasy and evened out my skin tone pretty good. On darker blemishes, I did have to apply a separate concealer for more coverage. The Buff shade works for my skin tone right now, but probably won't as I get darker. When first applied, the shimmer seemed very noticeable and I found myself trying to brush it or sponge it away. I was scared that as the day wore on, I would end up looking like an oily mess. Surprisingly, the shimmery particles faded to a sheen leaving my skin glowing and didn't make me shinier. For oilier skin types, however, I'm not sure if the results will be the same. Any oily lovelies that can weigh in? I think this would work great on the decolletage for a sexy glow and on the legs especially if you need to hide any nicks or bruises.

Clinique Moisture Surge Tinted Moisturizer in #3: In March, I was actually light enough to use this shade which is for more fair skinned beauties. The downside - the shade doesn't work for me now. The upside? I'm getting more tanned! Yay! Out of the 3, the Clinique version provides the best coverage yet still looked natural. I didn't have to use a separate concealer over my blemishes or red spots. I really liked the light-weight feel to it. Those that are oilier will appreciate the non-shimmery formula.

Cover FX Skintint FX in M Light: This has been my go-to TM for the past month or so. I love the golden tint it gives my skin! Out of the 3, the finish is the closest to looking like your natural skin. I love the mousse-like texture - it feels like air when applied. It has a pearlized texture rather than shimmer so you're left with skin that glows. The downside? My skin isn't the most perfect right now and I find it doesn't offer enough coverage. My solution? I've been mixing this with Cover FX's Natural FX Water-Based Liquid Foundation SPF 15. The combo gives me enough coverage while still feeling and looking like a TM. It's the pricier option of the 3, but all Cover FX products have ingredients that repair and heal the skin. Perfect for both normal or more problematic skin.

To Tint or Not-To-Tint?

Meredith from her lovely blog, et tu and you, did a post about tinted moisturizers and debated whether switching to one would work for her (click on link above to read). She asked me to weigh in on it and I'm so glad she did!

Wearing a TM really depends on your skin type and your lifestyle. There are ones that offer more coverage and in my experience the ones I love are tarte's Smooth Operator and Clinique's Moisture Surge. These are great options especially if you are used to a full coverage foundation. However, mixing your moisturizer with your favourite foundation also does the trick. I've fallen in love with mixing my Cover FX Skintint with the Natural FX. 

As I said in my reply to her, there is a time and place for everything. If you're working out and still want a bit of coverage (for fear of running into that hottie or ex), a TM is your best friend. Nothing is worst than foundation dripping off your face and onto the workout equipment! If I'm running errands, I usually slap on a bit of concealer with my TM. If I'm attending an event that requires long lasting makeup, I will use a full coverage foundation. If you normally have flawless skin (damn you!), then you can get away with wearing a TM all year round. But if you're less fortunate like me, I use a heavier foundation in the winter months and switch to a TM in the warmer months.

And as always, I am never without a face primer. Make sure you apply a primer (mattifying one if oily) first to keep your TM on all day. Since they don't offer as much coverage, the chances of it fading is greater. Don't be afraid to do a light dusting of translucent powder to set it.

What is your favourite tinted moisturizer? Do you prefer it over a full coverage foundation? Have you tried any of the 3?

Products were sent for editorial consideration and I truly love them.

Beauty News: Give A Gift Get A Gift With CoverFX in Toronto!

 

The greatest part about the holidays is giving. CoverFX has come up with a fabulous way to give back to the community while staying in the spirit of all things beauty. 

Head down to the Toronto Eaton Centre where CoverFX elves will be collecting non-perishable food items for the Daily Food Bank. As a thank you, you will receive the best-selling Mint Glaze FX ($22 CAD, while supplies last)! 

Where: Outside of the Toronto Eaton Centre across from the Dundas Square

When: Monday, December 6, 2010

Time: 11:30 am - 1:30 pm

www.coverfx.com

Makeup Junkie Holiday Giveaway CoverFX: And the Winner Is...

Jill Oliver!!

Congratulations and enjoy this amazing prize from CoverFX!! How does she achieve flawless skin? Jill says: 

"I achieve flawless skin by moisturizing it well followed by CoverFx Skin Prep and Cargo's One Base. These things help prep and prime my skin while fixing the every day flaws. If I am going for more coverage I use Benefit's Some Kind A Gorgeous as a foundation to fully smooth out and blur any flaws. "

You will be contacted shortly for your mailing address. Thank you to everyone that entered but there are more prizes to be won so make sure you enter to win!

Makeup Junkie Holiday Giveaway #1: CoverFX!

I heart my readers - A LOT. I know it's been a while since I've done a contest so to make up for it, I'm hitting you up with a series of BIG weekly giveaways right before the Holidays! Just call me Mrs. Claus! Your continued support and genuine comments all make my heart melt and bring a smile to my face everyday. Clearly, without my readers Makeup Junkie would be nothing so here's to you!

To kick off the holiday giveaway festivities, I have an AH-mazing prize from CoverFx! Put your best face forward with these best-sellers and some of my favourites!

One lucky winner will receive: 

• CoverFX ClearPrep FX
• New! CoverFX EyePrep FX
• CoverFX Conceal FX
• CoverFX MintGlaze FX
• Total Value $133!

Contest Details: 

• To win, you must follow Makeup Junkie on Facebook and Twitter: Twitter.com/makeupjunkieJDT. Leave a comment telling me how you achieve flawless looking skin, your name, and your email address in a similar format "joy[at]makeupjunkie[dot]ca". Tweet or re-tweet with hashtag: #MakeupJunkiegiveaway. If you aren't on Twitter, just visit the Makeup Junkie page and make a comment about the giveaway!
• Contest runs until November 15. Winner will be chosen randomly and will be announced by 5 pm EST. 
• Open to both US and Canadian residents. 

Thank you to CoverFX for this fantastic giveaway! Good luck and stay tuned for more contest updates!

www.coverfx.com

Beauty News: Makeup's Biggest Weekend Is Almost Here! Toronto IMATS!

This is one makeup event I look forward to all year! It's hard to believe that one year has gone by already. In case you aren't hanging with the cool kids, makeup's biggest event is almost here! The International Makeup Show (IMATS) will be coming to Toronto on November 6 and 7. It's a must-attend event for industry professionals but definitely welcomes anyone who LOVES makeup!

Besides the copious amounts of makeup and makeup accessories that will be available, I love going and meeting up with my fellow beauty lovers. Be on the lookout for a group of us Toronto Beauty Bloggers (TBB) perusing the booths and shopping (check the TBB blog to see when meet-up times and locations are)! You will also have access to many top industry experts that you can meet and chat with as well as seminars and workshops. 

I had a Twitter convo with makeup artist, Naomi from StylEyes, about how I decide what products to stock in my kit. I usually buy products only when I'm low or if it's something I don't have and absolutely need/want. I definitely depend on makeup artist reviews before making a purchase. With an event like IMATS, there is a temptation to go a little crazy so my advice is to make a list and stick with it. And if you're shopping with a group of friends like I will be, try not to get swayed into buying products you don't need. Here is what I'll be stocking up on:

 

Face atelier Ultra Foundation Pro ($32 CAD): This is the one foundation line I use on my clients 98% of the time. I always have brides coming back and asking me what foundation I used on their wedding day. What my clients love? Flawless, luminous coverage without the heavy feel. Click here to see my reviews of Face atelier Cosmetics.  

Embroylisse 24 Hour Miracle Cream ($25 USD): You'll see this dream cream in most makeup artist's kits. Love this stuff and so do my clients! I need an extra one to use on myself! I've been using this lately now that the weather is getting drier. Click here to see my reviews of Embroylisse.

 

CoverFX Conceal FX ($27 CAD): I only have one shade but want to collect the rest for my kit! Gives full coverage, HD ready, and covers all your imperfections. Plus, it's water-resistant and fits easily into any kit or makeup bag. Click here to see my review of CoverFX Conceal FX.

Kett Sett Powder ($22 USD): What setting powder to use was also a topic that came up on Twitter. Kett Sett Powder has been on my wish list for so long and yet it has never landed in my kit. I've been using my trusted M.A.C. Blot Powders over the years but one of my shades was swiped over the summer during a wedding gig. Accident of course! Good excuse to pick this one up.

Also on the list are disposable mascara wands and maybe one or two brushes (my brush collection is pretty stocked though). Have you tried any of these products? What will you be picking up at IMATS? 

I look forward to seeing familiar faces and meeting new ones! Stay tuned for my highlights of this year's IMATS! To read past highlights of Toronto IMATS click here.

For more information on location, dates, tickets and keynote speakers visit www.imatsshow.com/toronto/toronto_index.php.

Beauty Review: Your Eyes Are Covered With CoverFX EyePrep FX!

The eyes reveal everything. They aren't just the windows to your soul. Your eyes reveal how late you were up the night before and whether it's time for some Botox. And when it comes to your makeup, it's a daily struggle figuring out how to make your morning eyeshadow look as fabulous at the end of the day.

All your eye woes have been answered! A few months ago I attended the blogger launch of CoverFX's newest star, EyePrep FX. Like its other face primers, this eye primer is a hit! This multi-tasking eye primer not only preps your skin for foundation, concealer, and eye shadow but it is also an eye cream that has anti-aging properties and is free of parabens. Those with oily lids will especially love the fact that it is silicone-free so your shadow won't budge all day. Use day and night as your eye cream and if you want to reap all the anti-aging benefits, don't layer with your traditional eye cream.

Top: Without EyePrep FX

Bottom: With EyePrep FX

Ever since I received this, I've been using it on myself and all my brides. I love that it cuts the amount of product I have to use. My bride is getting the nourishment of an eye cream all the while keeping her shadow smear/tear proof. As you can see from the swatch, the primer really enhances the pigment of the shadow making it more vibrant and rich and this shadow on its own is pretty pigmented. Once the primer is on the lid, the shadow just glides on and stays put all day.

For an eye cream/primer that does it all, paying $43 CAD doesn't seem so bad especially compared to department store eye creams. On a job, one of the makeup artists asked the model, who happens to be a skin specialist at Murale, what eye cream she recommends. Thinking she would suggest a really expensive brand, she pulled out a sample size of CoverFx EyePrep from her purse. I almost squealed and we blabbered about how much we love it! 

As for the pump feature, I find a lot of beauty brands are going this route. If you're not careful, it can sometimes dispense too much product. The trick is to pump it using small, quick pumps. This way you don't end up having to waste a glob of product. 

Have you tried CoverFX EyePrep FX? Well you should - your eyes will thank you!

www.coverfx.com

Beauty News: CoverFX International Treasure Hunt!

(Picture heavy!) :)

Start the first day back to school with a treasure hunt! The lovely team at CoverFX has organized this amazing treasure hunt taking place in select cities in Canada, US, and the UK. I love contests that really get the fans involved. CoverFX's last event was a successful flash mob that took place all over but I have to say the treasure hunt tops it all! Click on the poster to enlarge for contest details and visit their Facebook page!

Last week I attended a fabulous event to celebrate the launch of CoverFX's newest star, EyePrep FX. I'm already a huge fan of their primers so I knew I would fall in love with this one. Not only is it an eye primer for your concealer, foundation and eye shadow but it's also an eye cream!

I spoke with Co-creator, Jenny Frankel, who informed me that it's better not to layer the EyePrep FX over your traditional eye cream as it may affect the 'stay put' primer quality. However, if you just can't live without your favourite eye cream, Jenny suggests applying EyePrep FX during the day and your night cream at night. But to reap the full benefits of EyePrep, it's best to use both day and night. It's also made without silicone so for all you oily lids your shadow won't slip and slide throughout the day. 

I had a blast at the event (despite the heat and sweat!) seeing all my fellow blogger buddies and meeting new ones. And of course, it's always a pleasure being able to chat with CoverFX creators, Lee and Jenny! Thank you to the fabulous Marketing Co-Ordinator, Melissa Shum, for throwing a great event and wearing those fantastic purple heels! 

Sh-wag!

Gorgeous ladies Monica from Beauty Parler and Jennifer from Spiced Beauty

Co-creator Lee Graff demonstrating EyePrep FX on the lovely Melissa Shum

Clearly EyePrep FX works! The colour is definitely more vibrant.

More gorgeous ladies and sporting the "glow"! Rhia from ArtistRhi, Anjali from Rock That Look, and Farah from FacesByFarah

The awesome Lee Graff and Jenny Frankel! Love Lee's dress!

The fabulous International Communications Director, Wanda Longo and Lee

Celebrity makeup artists of the night Tracy Peart from CityLine and Lucky B from MTV Canada!

Me (and my "glow") with some pretty fabulous women!

I'm really bad with names - sorry! Jill from Jillo Jello, Arianne from GlitterGeek and moi. 

Rhia and I getting our sweat glow on!

Hot!

Melissa's killer purple platforms!

Uber talented MUA, Lelo, from Ramblings of An Artist. I love how we're resting our sweaty heads on each other!

I heart you Lucky!

www.coverfx.com

Summer Faves: Face

Summer time fun is no fun when your makeup is melting off your face or looks caked on. Here are a few face savers that have been in heavy rotation in my kit! 

1. Make Up For Ever HD Complexion Travel Kit ($34 CDN): If you want to achieve an HD ready face on and off camera this is the kit for you. Set includes 3 best-sellers: HD Elixir, HD Microperfecting Primer, and HD Microfinish Powder. 

The Exlir is a gel serum designed to boost the skin's moisture by 520% in 15 minutes. I really love this serum. My skin is pretty sensitive and without a moisturizer feels really tight. I tried the serum without a moisturizer and my skin felt well hydrated. Only a small amount is needed to cover the face.

The HD Microperfecting Primer is fantastic! It has an oil-free formula that glides onto the skin. My skin feels so smooth with the combination of the Elixir and primer. Makeup blended perfectly onto the skin and lasted all day. It has become one of my new favourite primers!

The HD Microfinish Powder is made with 100% mineral Silica powder. I love the soft focus effect it gives your skin. It works for all skin-tones and definitely helps the staying power of the makeup. Overall, it's a great sample kit if you've been wanting to try these products.

2. freshMinerals Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 ($25 USD): Absolutely loving this tinted moisturizer for many reasons. This all-natural mineral tinted moisturizer gives the skin a beautiful healthy glow and protects your skin from the sun. It's tinted but it definitely gives the skin good coverage and it's water-proof. However, if you have a blemish or pimple it won't be enough to cover it. My favourite feature is the twist top foundation brush. I've used similar products and the brush always made a mess. When you squeeze the tube an excess amount doesn't spurt out. You get just enough and the on and off twist top prevents messes and wasting product. There are 5 shades to choose from - I'm Sand and works great from my bronzy skin.

3. Benefit POREfessional ($34 CDN): If you suffer from big pores suffer no more! I am so loving the silky smooth balm that instantly minimizes the appearance of pores and primes the skin. It is oil-free, extremely lightweight, and can be used over and under your makeup. Makeup just glides on effortlessly and keeps your makeup looking flawless all day. It's also great at mattifying the skin. Available July 2010. 

4. LUSH Colour Supplement ($13.95 CDN): LUSH has makeup?? This mineral-oil free multi-purpose base can be used in many different ways. This base offers full coverage but if you prefer a lighter coverage mix with your favourite moisturizer for a lighter, dewier finish. It also works amazing as a concealer. Made with red rose petal infusion to calm redness and glycerine to help retain moisture, it gives the skin a beautiful finish. It is available in 4 shades: Light Pink Colour (lightest shade and most versatile), Dark Pink Colour (darkest), Light Yellow (pale or ivory skins), Dark Yellow (olive and yellow skins). The Dark Yellow works great for my skin tone. The only downside is that since it is an all-natural vegan product, the shelf-life of this is about a year and since it comes in a jar you'd have to use a spatula to avoid contamination. And beware, it may melt! 

5. Garnier Skin Renew Anti-Dark Circle Roller ($19.99 CDN): I'll be honest, I was prepared to be disappointed by this product. I've tried tinted under-eye products before and all have been a complete fail. I was pleasantly surprised by the coverage and how the mineral pigments instantly brightened my death circles! The cool feel of the roller ball also soothed my puffy tired eyes. The combination of the caffeine gel formula and the roller ball help energize and stimulate circulation. The lemon essence is known for its clarifying properties and brightens the eye area. I was afraid it would alter the colour of my concealer but it didn't. In fact, I ended up using less concealer! The shade is a shimmering beige and is supposed to be a universal shade. It says that it offers "flawless coverage for most skin tones" so it probably is too light for you dark-skinned beauties, however, may work underneath your concealer or foundation. Available August 2010. 

6. Cover FX Conceal FX ($27 CDN): The lovely team over at Cover FX held a flash mob outside Toronto's Eaton Center back in April. After the crazy mob of people died down, I luckily went home with a full-size sample of their popular Conceal FX! It erases under eye circles, blemishes, sun damage, redness, tattoos, birth marks, and even moles. I love how opaque yet emollient the concealer is. I've been finding my Benefit Erase Paste is a little too creamy for this humid weather, but Conceal FX doesn't feel heavy and stays put. It is also water-proof and HD friendly. This is a must-have concealer! 

7. Skindinavia No More Shine Makeup Finish ($12.50-57 USD): I haven't actually been using this on myself because I don't really have a problem with excess oil. Instead, I've been using it on my brides at bridal trials to see how well this spray actually works. I sprayed this on prior to foundation then once again after all the makeup had been applied. The verdict? There's no question the makeup lasts longer, but my brides did notice the shine creep up after 3 or 4 hours versus the 16 hours that it claims to do. However, the amount of oil and shine that appeared was a lot less and kept the shine at bay a couple more hours longer than without. But even with a bit of oil, the makeup did not smear or melt off. Only touch-ups required was a little blotting. If you have oily skin I'd recommend trying the smallest size before committing to a full size bottle. Overall, my brides were happy with the results! 

Have you tried any of these products? Love 'em? Hate 'em? Want 'em? What must-have face products have you been using for the hot weather?

Beauty Fans in Toronto Swarm Cover FX!

Cover FX Marketing Coordinator, Melissa, being swarmed by fans!

The Cover FX gals were in full force yesterday outside the Toronto Eaton Centre. In case you hadn't heard, Cover FX planned a flash mob event outside the Eaton Centre to hand out a free full size Conceal FX. It didn't take me long to find the mob - just follow the crowd! 

I arrived 5 minutes after the event started and I was blown away by the hoards of people already there. I loved watching all the madness and excitement of beauty lovers and Cover FX fans clawing for a free concealer. 

Cover FX is the first beauty brand that I know of that has done a flash mob and it was a success! I think the gals ran out of concealers within the first 10 minutes or so. I thought it was adorable how a guy came down to pick one up for his girlfriend but was out of luck. There was just no way he was going to get through a crowd of makeup loving women!

The lovely Cover FX team decked out in camouflage!

I was able to snag a full size of Conceal FX in Deep and a soft pack sample of Light. Review will be in a next post so stay tuned! It was a lot of fun and I'm glad I got to be apart of a beauty flash mob! Don't mess with a woman and her free beauty product! I also ran into a few beauty bloggers that I've been wanting to meet!

Me with pretty Arianne from The Glitter Geek! I feel like I've known her forever and after all these years finally met! Not pictured, I also got to meet up with You Tuber and beauty blogger, Mariana! Thanks to Melissa and the Cover FX gang for hosting such a great flash mob freebie! 

For more info on Conceal FX visit http://coverfx.com.

Cover FX Take Cover Flash Mob April 22 in Toronto!

Flash mob wha?? No, it's not what you (or mainly I) would think - a group of people flashing each other. If you're unfamiliar with what a flash mob is it is defined as: 

d: where a large group of people who assemble suddenly in a public place, perform an unusual action for a brief time, then quickly disperse.

I think it's awesome how brands like Cover FX are doing something fun and outside the box to promote their products. This will force me to get off my butt and get some physical activity in my day! 

If you want to be apart of the fun and get a FREE retail size of the must-have Conceal FX, head on down to the Eaton Centre across from Dundas Square on April 22nd between 12-12:30 pm and look for Cover FX troops decked out in camouflage gear. Show them your dark circles (check), brown patches (check), and red spots/patches (check) and they will arm you with this amazing concealer to banish them all! While quantities last! See you there!

http://coverfx.com

Beauty Feature: Spring Forward!

The transition from winter to spring can be a bumpy flaky ride. Got skin? Then you'll want to know these skin-loving products. Sure, there are tons of pretty makeup out there but if your skin doesn't look good then nothing will. Spring forward and look healthy and radiant!

1. SK-II Facial Treatment Cleanser ($60 USD): If you have normal to moderately dry skin then you'll love the velvety texture of this cleanser. My skin always feels hydrated after. The magic ingredient is Pitera, a combination of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and organic acids that work together to restore the appearance of your skin while helping the skin rejuvenate on its own. I don't mind splurging on skin care but if the price is too steep try Burt's Bees Soap Bark and Chamomile Deep Cleansing Cream.

2. Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner ($43 CDN): I love using this after I cleanse the skin. My face always feels refreshed - great to use throughout the day when your skin needs a pick-me-up. Use this before you apply your moisturizer. It not only tones and smooths the skin, but allows your moisturizer to really soak in.

3. Rodial Glamtox Eye Light SPF 15 ($143.94 CDN): I know, the price is ridiculous! But I've fallen in love with this eye cream and I just might...I received the travel size and now I think I'll have to ration it! I rarely ever do reviews on eye creams but this one really works for me! Rodial is your all-natural approach to plastic surgery. Their magic ingredient is Pomegranate Ellagic Tanin that boosts collagen production and restores youthfulness. It really hydrates my eyes and my fine lines, dark circles, and puffiness are less noticeable. I just love the radiant finish.

4. Rodial Glamtox SPF 18 ($156.50 CDN): I like to apply my moisturizer after my eye cream so it can help lock in the moisture. It's safe enough for around the eyes. I'm really sad my travel size has run out. When the hubby and friends think you're wearing makeup when you're really not is proof enough for me that this skin cream is fabulous! It really brightens and plumps up the skin. I've fallen in love with it but we may have to put our relationship on hold. When money is no object, maybe but would you spend that much on a skin cream??

5. Rodial Glam Balm ($100 CDN): Thank god I still have quite a bit left in my travel size pot! This is a multi-purpose anti-aging plumping treatment for your face, lips, neck and hands. My lips don't have a problem with fullness, but I love using this as a finishing touch around the eyes. Also great on the cuticles and as an intensive night treatment for the eyes. Dot a bit on the high planes of the cheeks and you have an instant highlight!

6. Cover FX Brightening Foundation Primer and Photo-Aging Defense SPF 50 ($45 USD): My makeup doesn't hold up so well if I don't use a primer. Primers these days do more than keep your makeup on. All Cover FX primers have anti-aging benefits and improve problematic skin. I love the Brightening primer for those days when my skin looks tired and needs a perk-me-up. I find for drier skin it does a good job at hydrating. The texture goes on a little liquidy but smooths easily onto the skin. Your left with a luminous, radiant finish. The "blur" affect minimizes my imperfections and fine lines and best of all keeps my makeup looking good all day!

7. Korres Face Primer ($28 USD): If you have sensitive skin and have an allergy to silicone, then you will love Korres 99% natural silicone-free primer. My initial thought was that it wouldn't hold up as well as a primer with silicone but this one is awesome! I am in love with it! It contains Vitamin E so over time you'll notice an improved appearance in your skin. My skin always looks smooth and also has a brightening effect. It feels nice and light on the skin and glides on like a moisturizer. Your makeup at night will look as fresh as it did in the morning! 

8. Tarte Smooth Operator SPF 20 ($36 USD): When the weather gets warmer I love to switch my foundation to a tinted moisturizer with an SPF. Some tinted moisturizers don't give enough coverage but not Tarte's version. I still get optimal coverage without a heavy feeling. This all-natural tint has micro-treated mineral pigments that help diffuse fine lines and wrinkles. My skin looks luminous without looking oily, important as the weather warms up. The line has been relaunched with a new look and darker shades! I find the new tube is less messy. I'm using Agent 14, for medium complexions with yellow undertones, but I get dark in the summer so I'll have to try Agent 16, for medium dark complexions with golden undertones. 

9. Tarte Provocateur Mineral Pressed Powder SPF 8 ($30 USD): I love this mineral powder because it doesn't look like you're wearing powder. During spring and summer, skin should look fresh and not caked on with powder. It applies silky smooth and is the perfect compliment to the Smooth Operator. Your makeup is perfectly set and you still get a pretty glow. It comes packaged in a super cute in a royal purple quilted compact. I prefer using a brush but the sponge is good for quick touch-ups. The line has also added 2 new darker shades! I'm a Honey 12, for medium to dark complexions with golden undertones. 

10. Korres Lip Butter in Guava ($13 CDN): Finish off healthy skin with an all-natural lip moisturizer. When I tried Korres Lip Butter in Wild Rose, I fell in love. I decided I wanted this on my lips at all times but needed a clear one. I picked up Guava and I can't get enough! Yes, you have to dip your finger in the pot but I don't mind especially when my lips feel buttery smooth. A little goes a long way and I rarely have to reapply throughout the day (but I do anyways). The scent is also nice and light. You can also wear these on the cheeks for a dewy stain, but Guava works better as a highlighter on the cheekbones. I want the entire line - 2 down 5 to go! 

What products are apart of your skin care regime? Have you tried these products? Love 'em? Hate 'em? Want 'em?

Happy 10 Years CoverFX!

Happy 10 year anniversary Cover FX!

Last night I attended a beauty blogger's media event put on by the fabulous brand and "foundation authorities", Cover FX. I of course ran in late while the President and Co-Creator, Lee Graff, gave her background on how Cover FX came to be. I hate being late - sorry!

If you don't know the history behind Cover FX, it all started with Lee's dedication to help burn victims and patients with skin disorders achieve flawless skin with superior products and formulations. With Frankel's chemical engineering background, Cover FX was born. 

   VP and Co-Creator, Jenny Frankel, showing off a scar from a chemical peel gone bad! 

It was really an informative night about not only achieving flawless skin, but covering up different skin problems such as rosacea, scars, and even tattoos (not a skin problem but could be a problem if you don't want it seen at a formal affair).

 

Lee working her magic on a model with rosacea. Did you know Lee has her own blog full of amazing beauty tips and tricks? Check it out here!

 

Amazing results! Rosacea be gone!

International Communications Director, Wanda Longo, covering up Jenny's scar. Don't forget to check out Wanda's blog!

 

Jenny's beautiful daughter who has flawless skin already! PR intern/MUA, Katherine, covered up her under eye circles.  

As you can tell from the above photos, it's clear why CoverFX is the "foundation authorities". They have a wide range of shades and formulations suited to your skin type. My favourite is the Natural FX Water-Based Liquid Foundation SPF 15 which is great for normal to dry because it leaves a radiant finish. All the products are water-resistant, tear-resistant, and sweat-resistant so it's perfect for extreme conditions. 

Launching this March, is the fool-proof The Big Cover Up! 3 Step Essentials Kit ($75 CDN). This kit allows you to custom blend, cover up imperfections, and sculpt and highlight all in one compact! It's so compact and travel-friendly. If you're a makeup artist, it's definitely a kit essential! I learned a little background on the inspiration of this kit from Frankel. She said the big trend with makeup artists in LA was all about sculpting and highlighting their clients while giving them a flawless complexion.

We of course got to try it on ourselves but had to figure out before hand what our colour was. It is available in 4 colour series: B - shades of golden brown to ebony, C - primarily pink undertones, E - a balance of pink and yellow, and M - yellow and/or olive undertones. 

Beauty bloggers, Anjali from Rock That Look and Farah from Faces By Farah looking flawless :)

I was lucky enough to be colour-matched by Wanda back in November at the Toronto IMATS. I am in the M series. Fellow beauty blogger, Esther, from In a Nutshell..., graciously allowed me to do her makeup. Did I mention it was our first time meeting? She was also in the M series - actually the majority of us were in the M series!

The 7-piece kit includes: 

• Skinprep FX - Nourishing Foundation Primer and Anti-Aging Serum
• Cover FX Total Coverage Cream Foundation (3 shades total)
• Setting FX Translucent Setting Powder
• #130 Professional Foundation Brush
• How-to Instructional DVD featuring Lee Graff

 The "bullseye" technique before blending on blogger/model Shay from Hey Do You. She could have walked out like that and still been gorgeous!

Wanda demonstrated the "Bullseye" technique that was created specifically for this kit. The lighter shade is applied to the center of the face, medium shade applied to the areas surrounding the lighter shade, and the dark shade applied to the outer perimeter. All three were then blended together using outward strokes and pats with the foundation brush. Then use the powder to set. The result is instant coverage, highlighting and sculpting!

 

Thanks to the amazing PR rep, Melissa Shum, for organizing this wonderful event!

 

Sneak peek at the new display for Sephora! 

Some CoverFX essentials. Fell in love with the white-haired brushes!

Cutie Jenn, from Spiced Beauty, posing with her fancy camera ;)

It was a fantastic event and I'm glad I got to see some old faces and meet some new ones! Of course, we were sent home with a sweet thank you card personally hand-written by Melissa and our shade of The Big Cover Up kit! Thank you to CoverFX for designating a night just for us bloggers!

P.S. For those of you in the US, catch Lee and Jenny on HSN airing March 24! 

http://coverfx.com