REVIEW: Sephora Beauty Insider Tarte Amazonian Try It Kit

Per my post last Saturday (read it here), I picked up the latest Sephora 500-point perk recently. The offer was for a 5-piece Tarte Amazonian Clay "Try It" kit. This post is a review of each product within the kit.





Mineral Powder Bronzer in Park Avenue Princess - 0.11oz
(Full size is 0.32oz for $29US/$38CDN)

This bronzer is oil, talc, and fragrance free. Park Avenue Princess is a pearly golden tan and absolutely gorgeous. The same color also comes in a waterproof matte version and there is a third color called Hotel Heiress, which is a dark shimmery bronze.

This is such a beautiful bronzer! The color is perfect for that sunkissed look - it is more golden than orange. The powder goes on as a pearly shimmer without any glittery or chalky fall out (which I've certainly experienced with other mineral-based bronzers before). Because the powder is finely milled, it's quite buildable. Several light layers creates a very natural but luminous look.

I'm liking this over NARS Laguna bronzers because it's slightly more subtle. The less velvety texture of this bronzer allows you to pick up just enough product whereas I find it's easy to pick up too much with the NARS if you're not careful.

This is a powder I would definitely consider repurchasing...although I think the generous sample size will last me quite a long time.

On another note, isn't the bronze croc embossed packaging just gorgeous?!





LipSurgence Natural Matte Lip Tint in Lively - 0.1oz
(Full size is 0.1 oz for $24US/31CDN)

I absolutely love the LipSurgence line. There are 3 types - Natural for creamy color, Luster for shimmery color, and Matte for a flat finish. All provide excellent payoff and the colors ranging from subtle to extremely bold are all absolutely gorgeous and on trend.

As the name implies, the LipSurgence line focuses on providing a generous dose of moisture along with color. This Matte one in Lively is no exception.

The color is stunning. It is a very intense hot pink. Seriously, a jump off my lips kind of pink! I don't think I'm brave enough to wear it out but I thoroughly enjoyed prancing around the house with it on because it is H-O-T!!

It is definitely dryer than the regular lip tints, but like my favourite Revlon Matte line, it is still way more moisturizing than some of the other ones on the market. I recommend using a waxy lipbalm as your base, like classic Burt's Bees, if you want to keep the shine down but add more hydration to the lips.

I also find the chubby pencil style applicator really easy to use. Just twist to get more product. You won't get the wobbly lipstick (you know, where it gets all over the sides of the tube? Ick!) nor smooshed cap (another ick!) problem here.

I am definitely repurchasing more LipSurgences after the positive experience with this one. Perhaps I'll try one of the Lusters and Natural ones next.





EmphasEYES High Definition Inner Rim Eye Liner in Black - 0.001oz
(Full size HD eyeliner is 0.001 oz for $18US/$23CDN)

This pencil is tiny! I doubled check the size on Sephora to confirm that it's full sized but they do not sell this specific product. There's the regular HD eyeliner which is the same size and price. However, Tarte's own website does have this product but as Devildeb89 commented on my previous post, that one is 0.002 in size. However, that one pictured had a black "cap" on the end of the eyeliner which I suspect makes up for the larger size. We both suspect this may be an older version of the product.

It is meant for lining the inner rims of the eye so I guess the very thin core is appropriate.

The product comes up via a click and twist method but a word of warning. It does not allow you to retract. Unfortunately, I had twisted up a little too much and had to break it off.

It contains silicone and is supposed to be "super creamy, long wearing designed specifically for the sensitive inner rim". Unfortunately, I did not find this to be the case.

The pencil is dry, similar to some cheaper drugstore lines. I found a light application barely put any color on my inner rims but a heavier application hurt the sensitive skin in that area. Dry and difficult application, miniscule amount of product, and bad packaging? I would definitely not buy this again.



ReCreate Silicone-Free Primer - 0.3fl oz
(Full Size is 29.5ml/1oz for $32US (couldn't find price in $CDN))
This primer is the counterpart to the ReCreate foundation which has the same Wrinkle Rewind technology. It claims to smooth skin, minimize pores, and of course, tackle wrinkles. It's appropriate for sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin.

I always take in anti-aging claims with a large dose (or more accurately, a bucket) of salt. But as a primer? This one is pretty awesome.

I really like that it goes on like a light moisturizer instead of that slippery cloaking feel silicone-based primers give. On that note, it's quite moisturizing so I recommend letting it settle for 10-15 minutes before applying foundation, particularly if you use powder.

Despite it's moisturizing qualities, it isn't oily so while I don't find it particularly mattifying, it certainly does not create shine.

Would I purchase this again? No but really it's just because I have so many primers already, both sample and full sized.

I would recommend this if you have dry skin but at the same time, are prone to shine during the day.


Smooth Operator Micronized Clay Finishing Powder - 0.07oz
(Full Size is 0.32oz for $28US/$36US)

This is a translucent powder meant for application post foundation to mattify and minimize pores. It can also be applied over concealer to prevent it from "migrating into fine lines, wrinkles, and dried, damaged skin."

My first reaction to this powder was surprise at just how finely milled it is. It's incredibly silky and weightless.

I never use finishing powder over my foundation. Heck, I rarely even use powder but I tried this today and it held up wonderfully. It kept my t-zone matte for a few hours (Which is quite good, IMO!) and did not emphasize the dry areas on my face. I took a photo of myself with flash and did not get the dreaded powder face a la Nicole Kidman (Hust google it. Will give you a giggle!). It's a very easy to blend powder.

Because it's so finely milled, the full size should last you forever. I won't repurchase just because it's not a product I use but if you do? This powder not only does the job but is also great bang for your buck.

And to finish off this post, here are swatches of each product. I didn't blend in the primer or finishing powder so that you can see the product. Once blended, it is clear.

Sephora Beauty Insider 500 Points Perk: Tarte Amazonian Kit

If you're a Sephora Beauty Insider member and have 500 points in your account right now? Walk RUN to your nearest Sephora right now.

I received an email yesterday morning promoting a new 500 point perk. These usually don't interest me because Sephora's 500 points perks are usually just a few sample sized items, half of which I won't even use. However, the Tarte Amazonian Clay Kit made me do a double take. It promised not one, but two full sized items!

I called ahead and went on my lunch hour to pick it up. I'm glad I did because the displayed 500-point perk was yet another one of those uninteresting ones (two mini Sephora by OPI nailpolishes, sample sized polish remover, etc.) and I wouldn't have known this was also available.



The kit includes the following items:

-LipSurgence Natural Matte Lip Tint in Lively (FULL SIZE)
-EmphasEYES High Definition Inner Rim Eyeliner in Black (FULL SIZE)
-Mineral Powder Bronzer in Park Avenue Princess
-ReCreate Silicone-Free Primer
-Smooth Operator Micronized Clay Finishing Powder







If all 5 products were full sized, the retail price would be $131US

But even with two full sized products in the Try It kit? Their combined value is already at $42US, not taking into account the value of the other 3 generously sized samples. Not bad at all for a freebie!

Were you able to obtain one of these kits? What did you think?

My review of each product to come shortly!

Holiday 2011 Beauty Wishlist (and a Sephora Beauty Insider deal alert!)

image courtesy of Sephora

If you're a Sephora Beauty Insider member (yes, this time it's even you fellow Canadians!!), check your inbox or spam folder for a one-time use coupon for $15 off $50 as seen above . That's up to 30% off your purchase. A pretty sweet deal considering most items never go on sale.

With the new house and holiday gift giving coming up, I definitely can't be spending my money none-too-carefully. So I've narrowed down my wishlist to the following items.


images courtesy of Sephora

1) Chloe "Chloe" Perfume
2) Marc Jacobs "Oh, Lola!" Perfume
3) Korres Cherry-Picked Cherry Oil Lipgloss Quad
4) Tarte Rising Star Limited Edition Palette (Sephora Online Only)
5) Tarte Lip Service Limited Edition LipSurgence Collection
6) Tarte SmolderEyes Limited Edition Amazonian Clay Waterproof Liner Collection

After checking out the vast holiday offers, the sets above were the ones that suited my needs wants the most. The perfumes above I think I may go with a rollerball version, which is much more convenient and economical. As for the palettes? These sets seem to have the least amount of "fillers" products - you know, those items in a gift set that you never use? I'll do a review later on of what I ended up purchasing.

Have you put together a holiday "beauty wishlist"? Please share!

REVIEW: Sephora Beauty Insider Haul

At the beginning of this month, Sephora held a 20% off Saturday morning event at their Bloor Street location for all Beauty Insider members (their rewards program). Badly needing some essentials, I wrote a list the night before and set my alarm for an early weekend morning (BOO-WHOO!!).

The event was held prior to regular hours from 8:30-10:00AM. There was starbucks coffee, juice, fruit, and baked goods to be had. I arrived just after opening with the following items on my list:

1. Foundation
2. Concealer
3. Mascara
4. Primer

I walked around the store for an hour, picking up and putting back numerous items including Bare Escentuals primer, Lancome Definicils mascara, Make Up For Ever High Definition foundation, etc. Finally I called the boyfriend to ask if he wanted anything and arranged to meet up at 10AM. With that deadline, I became more focused in my search. I ended up with 6 items and not ONE of them was a recurring squatter in my makeup bag!

I didn't want to make a post right after as I find reviews done with only one or two uses (or sometimes just swipes!) of a product are neither accurate nor helpful. Now after a few weeks of consistent use, I feel I can give you a better review of my purchases. So here goes!!


1. Vincent Longo Lip & Cheep Gel Stain in Cupid's Breath
I have been looking for a lip stain for the longest time. I've tried Benefit's Benetint but the balm version is simply a tinted lip balm and the bottle version has a useless nail polish type brush. I've also tried lip markers but the product always dries up after a few uses. This stain comes with a sponge-tip applicator just like regular lip glosses. The color is buildable; a light sweep just gives you natural flush but a few layers gives a beautiful brownish deep red (great for Asian skin tones!) which reminds me of silver screen sirens from back in the day. The only downside is that the stain is very drying. Putting balm on BEFORE applying will block the stain from...well, staining! So after application put on a balm or gloss to keep your lips moisturized. This product is very versatile, I keep this at work so I can look natural during the day and apply a few more times before going out for after-work drinks!


2. Urban Decay 24/7 Eyeliner set in Velvet Rope
I am so impressed with Urban Decay. I used to love it in high school with all the funky colors and glitter but eventually grew out of it. I recently just came back to it and am so glad I did. This set is $35 and is approximately 3/4 the size of the regular pencils. It claims to be smudge-proof. When I applied it I immediately noticed two things. It is incredibly PIGMENTED, and SMOOTH! I usually hate pencil eyeliners but this has changed my mind. However, my experience is that smooth and pigmented equals smudgy. THIS IS SO NOT TRUE!! After wearing for an entire day, even the deep black one did not smudge one bit! I have a MAC eyeliner in the same incredibly black shade and it smudges like crazy. I may just go back for the other set which is more blues and greens. I highly recommend these as gifts. Great price, incredible quality!


3. Shiseido Dual Balancing Foundation in O40
For the past couple years, I've been MAC liquid foundations and Everyday Mineral loose powers. I first started with liquid Studio Fix SPF 15 in NC35 then moved on to Select SPF 15 in NC37 which provided slightly lighter coverage. Both were good but not GREAT, slightly too yellow. I've long forgotten what shades from Everyday Minerals I had mixed together but I don't like highlighting dry winter skin! The Shiseido Duan Balancing shades are I = ivory, B = beige, 0 = ochre from 00 = pale to 60 = deep. Ivory is very fair and beige is too pink. I picked 040 for my medium Asian skin. It looked GREAT in the stores, finally a perfect match. Unfortunately in the past week I've noticed that it's actually a shade too light for me! I have stopped using bronzer (ran out!) so this might be emphasizing it. In terms of quality, I really like this foundation. I have combination skin and this has indeed done a good job of "balancing" my skin. While I still do get the oily forehead, it combats it like a powder foundation would. I rarely use my MAC blot powder now. The formula is also very smooth and thinner (although still providing medium coverage) unlike MAC. I give this a thumbs-up!!


4. Cargo Blu Ray High Definition Mattifier
I am so in love with this mattifier. The first time you try it, you might be scared. It comes out in a poopy light brown. However, once you blend it into skin it's completely clear. If you have tried Smashbox Photo-finish Primer, this one is more matte to the touch. When you're blending, you can slightly hear a sound similar to running your fingers over paper whereas with Smashbox it feels a bit more silky. However, this is actually a GOOD thing if you've got anything but dry skin. Two great things about this: 1) It feels light and mattifying 2) Does not bead up when you layer with foundation, moisturizer, etc.!! The price is also excellent at just $24, one of the cheapest compared to other popular brands (Makeup Forever, Smashbox, Bare Escentuals, etc.)


5. Tarte 4 Day Stay Lash Stain in Black
YUCK! HORRIBLE!! Imagine if you put your lashes in a dehydrator and turned them into chips. Sounds nasty? Well, that's what you get with this! Supposedly a 4 day lash stain, the formula is so thin it almost feels like I'm applying ONLY the brush itself to my lashes! Finally after a few coats it goes on but with NO curl, NO volume, NO length. Then the next day when you wake up, you see a slight shadow under your eyes. After a shower? A wanna-be Panda! If it's not going to stay on, at least let me take it off! This went back the very next day! I'm going to stick with just waterproof mascaras if I want staying power from now on.


6. Urban Decay 24/7 Concealer in NSA
I never use concealer. It's too much hassle and never really conceals. Yes, it's probably because I'm doing it wrong but it's too much effort to do it right (flawed logic? maybe. reality? yes.). This is where the 24/7 Concealer pen comes in. I tried this in the store and the consistency was VERY smooth. The product is very pigmented (full coverage) yet feels light. I bought it in NSA which is a deep beige for medium to dark complexions according to Sephora. In reality, this would NOT suit dark skins. I am an NC35-37 in MAC (medium shade) and this is just right. This is so easy to use. I simply make a couple lines over any blemishes or dark spots and smudge with a finger tip until blended and covered. Then I put my foundation on. Voila! Fully covered, natural, light, AND lasts all day.

All in all, the trip was VERY successful. I stuck to my list instead of buying more lipgloss and eyeshadow and every product I kept is now a key player in my daily makeup routine.