New High-End Makeup Haul! Review and Swatches! 


I recently picked up some new makeup from Sephora and Ulta to try out! I’ve read some reviews on these products and then once I swatched them in store, I knew I had to have them! I recently went on vacation and I brought these beauties with me to try out while I was gone so I could give you a solid review and let you know whether or not you need these products in your life. I noticed in the swatches that these are all bronzey-copper shades so I do apologize that they all fall into the same color family! These are just my personal favorite colors to wear on a daily basis and I know I will get the most bang-for-my-buck by sticking with the warm tones that I love to wear!
     

Becca Liquid Crystal Glow Gloss, “Champagne Dream X Bellini” 


      

I really wanted to try this lip gloss since it is super multi-dimensional, it seriously sparkles so beautifully in the sunlight! I’ve been into the glittery glosses lately and I was excited to test out a lip product from Becca for the first time! So far, I really love the smell of it and enjoy the smooth texture. I can’t stand when a sparkle lip gloss has that awful gritty texture, almost like sand when you rub your lips together. This one seriously feels like a thick, balm consistency and I can’t feel any of the glitter when I close my mouth. It is on the heavier side, so if you like really light, silky formulas then you may want to pass up on this! You can definitely wear this gloss alone, but I prefer just topping my lipstick or liquid matte lipstick with this product! The shade “Champagne Dream X Bellini” is one of the most wearable colors in the collection, but if you enjoy wearing non-traditional lip glosses than I would check out some of their other combinations in “Amethyst X Geode” and “Opal X Jade.”

      

Bite Beauty Prismatic Pearl Creme Lip Gloss, “Champagne Pearl” 


      

Can you tell I’m kind of obsessed with the shimmery lip glosses these days?! I had this one in particular on my wishlist for awhile before purchasing. This is a very pearlescent formula, with a lot of finely milled glitter. It catches the light beautifully and gives a multidimensional effect to the lips. I love this formula because it’s super long wearing, which is generally rare for a lip gloss. It also has an extremely smooth texture for the amount of glitter in the bottle. I can’t believe you can’t feel the sparkles at all since it is so metallic! I love the smell of this one as well, plus if you accidentally lick some off, you know it’s okay because all Bite products are made with food grade ingredients, YAY! So no accidental chemical ingestion, woo! I unfortunately can’t wear this product alone because it is overpowering and metallic in an unflattering way, however when I just pat it lightly over a lipstick, it turns out gorgeous and gives a plump look to my lips. 

        

Stila Magnificent Metals Glitter & Glow Liquid Eyeshadow, “Smoldering Satin”

  

       

I’ve been eyeing this product for such a long time! I’ve watched so many YouTube videos and read so many blogger reviews on how awesome these Stila glitter eyeshadows perform, so I couldn’t wait to try it out for myself! I went with the “Smoldering Satin” color because it’s different than any glitter or M.A.C loose pigments that I currently own. It’s definitely more of a neutral bronze color and it has gold and silver glitter throughout it. I wore this product all over my lids, then only in the inner corners, then only on my lower lash line and each way worked out beautifully. They are so user friendly, you don’t have to buy a mixing medium or glitter glue, you can just apply directly from the applicator, or you can put some on your finger and gently pat it where you want it. I had zero fall out with this product, which is great because I’m in the habit of doing my face makeup first and I hate having to wipe away glitter when I have my entire base finished. It also wore for hours without fading, creasing or transferring, which was a first for me! I tested this out at the beach, so I was around humidity and hot temperatures and it performed so great. I will definitely be repurchasing this product in different colors. I don’t think I’ve ever received more compliments on my eyeshadow, I had so many complete strangers ask me what glitter I had used! If you love this product and use it all the time, then please let me know what your favorite shade is so I can try it too! 

      

Make Up For Ever Aqua XL Color Paint Shadow, “Iridescent Copper Gold”


      

I haven’t read too many reviews on this product, but I was really curious to try it out anyways! It is labeled as being “24-hour wear and waterproof” so of course I tested this in the ocean!l I am happy to report that it actually did last! I was kind of doubtful that it would stay at all, and I will admit that it did fade a tad bit, but definitely not a noticeable amount and it didn’t get patchy or crease at all! I also tested these out of water and it lasted all night long and stayed perfectly vibrant and beautiful! I really want to try one of their matte shades as an eyeshadow primer/base because they layer with powder eyeshadows so perfectly and last forever! 

    

Stila Heaven’s Hue Highlighter, “Kitten”


     

This was my first “putty” product that I’ve ever tried and I am obsessed! This highlight is incredible and totally worth all the hype that surrounds it! If you like those blinding, wet-looking highlights then you need to try this! I got the classic champagne shade in “Kitten” and it is a bit bright and light for my tan skin right now, but I know I will get a lot of use out of this in the Fall/Winter months when I’m more light-to-medium. The formula is like a thick putty, you can push it around and smoosh it with your fingers, but it still stays solid! I feel like it gives me the same kind of intensity that I get whenever I layer a cream highlight with a powder highlight, except this is just one product that I can easily apply in a one-and-done way! This also makes a beautiful eyeshadow so you can definitely get your money’s worth with its multi-functionality! 

       

Becca Sunlit Bronzer, “Bronzed Bondi” 


     

Bronzers are one of my favorite makeup items to buy because A.) I use them every day, regardless of the intensity of my makeup look, bronzer will always be essential and B.) I have light, medium, dark, shimmery, matte, warm-toned, neutral-toned, natural and intense bronzers and I still can’t get enough! I’m addicted to finding my perfect formula that looks natural and complimentary with my skin tone! This Becca bronzer is so great because it does have shimmer, but it doesn’t show up glittery once applied to your face. It is also very buildable, you can apply a little or a lot and it never gets cakey looking! I can’t get enough of this product, it reminds me a lot of my Hourglass Ambient Light Bronzer which is my holy-grail, all time favorite! It comes in a lot of shades, so I am sure you will be able to find one that suits your skin tone best! I have a feeling this is going to be my new favorite bronzer for summertime!  


       

Thank you for reading my reviews on some of these new high end makeup releases! I enjoy testing and trying out these products so much. It makes me so happy to write these posts and share helpful information with you all! I love reading your comments, I try to reply to everyone so please let me know what makeup you can’t put down recently! I really want to get some new drugstore products and do an affordable, every day makeup look, so leave me your suggestions for that as well! 

       

Side note: The amount of confused looks I got from fellow beachgoers to take these photos was hilarious 😂 I suppose it’s “frowned upon” to whip out a makeup bag and prop new products up in the sand and yell at seagulls to get out of your shot…who knew…🤷🏽‍♀️

         

Follow me on Instagram: @abigaillindsayblog

          

Email any business inquires to:

abigaillindsayblog@gmail.com  

Sephora and Ulta Haul!

It’s both a blessing and a curse when Ulta and Sephora have sales at the same time. I decided to be slightly practical, mainly purchasing back-ups of my most used products…but of course, I also had to throw some pricey items (that I’ve been too fearful of purchasing at full price) into my cart as well! I wanted to show you what I got, but also provide some mini-reviews and swatches, so you can decide if you want to try them out too!       


New Products

    

BECCA, First Light Priming Filter: 

    

I can’t lie, I totally bought this product just because it’s purple. The lavender hue is supposed to give your face a brightening effect, which sounds great. I have another primer by BECCA that I love, so I had high hopes for this one to work too! The first thing I noticed about this was the intense citrus smell. It didn’t bother me that much, but it’s definitely noticeable…so if you don’t like that scent, then I would pass on this! Once I applied to my skin, I didn’t think it did anything too drastic. I feel like it primed well, my makeup looked pretty on top of it, but I didn’t notice a brightening effect. My first impression of this product is that it’s good, but I don’t know if it does exactly what it claims to do. I’m going to continue using it and hoping for the best, but I may end up categorizing this as, “makeup that doesn’t live up to it’s hype.” 

      

PÜR, Eye Polish Pure Pigment Eye Primer + Top Coat, “Silk”: 

    

I’ve always been curious about the PÜR brand, but I never tried anything out! I recently watched a YouTube video where KathleenLights was speaking so highly of these liquid eye shadows, so I had to try them out for myself! I got the shade, “Silk” which could be described as a bronze, copper shade. The texture is like a gel-liquid consistency. It comes with a silicone eyeshadow applicator, but I found its most effective to just apply with your finger tip. Initially, I was a bit concerned with how liquid they were, just because I could see the major creasing and transferring happening in my future, but these actually stayed put! I was also impressed at how easily you can layer this product! With other gel/cream eyeshadows, I notice that the more product I apply, the more likely I experience uneven application with random areas of the eyeshadow separating. These Eye Polish’s definitely perform to their claims and stay put! There are some other great colors in the range that I’m definitely going to try out now! 
      

Urban Decay Cosmetics, Chill Cooling and Hydrating Makeup Setting Spray:

      

I’ve tried the regular “All Nighter” setting spray by Urban Decay, but I wanted to see if their “Chill Cooling and Hydrating” formula would be equally as great! I love the cooling feeling that this one gives, it’s super refreshing. I didn’t notice that it did any extra hydrating, but I’m going to continue to use it to really test that out! I cannot do my makeup without using a setting spray to top it off. Kim Kardashian’s makeup artist swears by this technique to extend the wear time of her makeup. He insists on fanning the entire face right after spraying the setting spray! The added pressure from the wind you’re generating by the fanning motion, helps the product absorb into your makeup, rather than just sitting on top of your skin; good to know! 

   

Anastasia Beverly Hills, Duo Brush #12:

     

I didn’t really “need” this product, but I’ve always admired it in store and just decided now would be a good time to try it out! I fill in my eyebrows using the Anastasia Dip Brow Pomade and this is the recommend brush to use with it. I really loved how precise I could carve my brows out and then flip to the other end and brush the product through. I feel like this saves me time, since it’s double-ended, which is another major plus! 

      

BareMinerals, Gen Nude Buttercream Lip Gloss, “Fly”: 

     
I really love BareMinerals lip products and I’ve heard so many great reviews about their Buttercream Lip Glosses! I decided to try out the color “Fly,” which is describe online as a “radiant tan with gold pearl.” I really loved how non-sticky this is! It didn’t last a long time, but that’s to be expected with glosses so I just reapplied as necessary. I really love the comfortability of wearing this, plus the color is beautiful! I don’t typically gravitate towards shimmery lip colors, but I think this will be beautiful during the summer months when I want that all-over, dewy look!

     

House of Lashes, Eyelash Adhesive:

    

I held out on buying this product for the longest time because I thought I could make the DUO one work for me. I tried this glue for the first time yesterday and wow…just wow. First of all, it doesn’t stink like the other lash glues and I know you know the exact smell I’m talking about. Secondly, it goes on a pearly white color and then changes to a turquoise blue and then to black. When it gets to the blue stage, that’s when you know it’s tacky enough to apply to your natural lash line! This held my falsies in place through wind and rain. I am a proud supporter of this product and would highly recommend it if you love wearing false eyelashes!

      

Belief, Aqua Fair Skincare Set, Sephora Exclusive: 

    

I picked this up because it had great reviews and I’ve been wanting to try out Belief skincare for awhile! I’ve only used the products once, but so far I like them! Very hydrating, but super lightweight, which is nice for the warmer months when I don’t have severely dry skin! I also love that these products have a slight lemon scent, so fresh and so clean-clean! 

    

MakeupForever, Ultra HD Lip Booster, “Clear”: 

    

This is kind of a glorified chapstick, but it’s fine guys because I GOT IT ON SALE, OKAY?! I purchased this because I wanted a moisturizing lip product to wear underneath drying liquid lipsticks or alone for no-makeup-makeup looks. This one is super glossy and wet looking on the lips, without being sticky! It also fills in the small lines on my lips, which is kind of nice. This is a good product, it’s just not a must-have in my opinion! 

    

Givenchy, Mister Brow Groom Universal Brow Setter:

    

I really didn’t want to buy this product, like I tried very hard to not purchase this, but I just couldn’t help myself. This product is so hyped and had awesome reviews, so I decided that getting it 15% off would somewhat justify its unreasonably high price point. I did really like the way it made my brows look, but it wasn’t as life changing as I had hoped! It kept my brows locked in place all day, but I just thought it would’ve made them look bushier or more editorial or something extra! You definitely don’t need this product, but if you’re looking to make your brow game a little more boujee, then I would say go for it! 

     
Tried and True Products

     

Tarte, Double Duty Beauty Shape Tape Contour Concealer, “Light Sand”: 

    

I mean what more can I say about this concealer. I feel like I’m always hyping it up because it’s seriously THAT GOOD! It’s super lightweight, never creases into my fine lines and lasts all day! It comes in so many shades, so you’re bound to find a color that suits your skin tone best! I highly recommend this product if you’re looking for an amazing under eye concealer that won’t let you or your bags down! 

     

Too Faced, Hangover Replenishing Face Primer:

     

I feel like I’ve bought over 5 of these primers…they’re so amazing! I use this as a light moisturizer during the warmer months when my skin isn’t as dry. One of the main ingredients in this product is coconut water, so it smells super tropical every time I apply it! It’s very light on the skin and gives you a sticky base that your liquid or powder products will cling to! 

     

Buxom, Full-On Lip Cream, “Dolly”:

     
Buxom lip glosses are my all-time favorite because they’re super shiny and actually plump your lips! I can’t believe I never purchased the shade “Dolly” because it’s my favorite, mauve-pink shade that I love to wear. They do have that extreme minty feeling, but I’ve grown so used to it over the years that it doesn’t affect me anymore! These glosses are very sticky, but I think that’s what helps them last so long throughout the day. Smooth, slightly plumping and opaque; what more can you ask for?! 

    

Kat Von D, Shade and Light Palette Refill, “Lyric”:

    

This is my favorite “banana” colored powder to set my under eye area with! I do find that it gives just an extra amount of brightness and really helps me look awake! I’m so happy they sell the refills of these powders now because I was always hitting pan on the brightening shades in her contour palette! 

    
Kat Von D, Tattoo Liner, “Trooper”:

     
I’m pretty sure I’ll continue to purchase this eyeliner for the rest of my life. If you know me, you know I love winged liner and this product helps me get the perfect flick each time! It’s super black and will last forever on your eyelid! If you have struggles with liquid liner or felt-tip liners, I think you’ll find this one so easy to use. It’s a must have product in my makeup collection! 

      


Thank you for checking out my picks from the Sephora and Ulta sales! I love stocking up on items that I know I’ll use and also giving myself a good excuse to try some pricier items as well! What are your staple makeup products that you continually repurchase? What are some high-end things that you think are worth the money? Leave me a comment and let me know! 

     

Follow me on Instagram: @abigaillindsayblog

   

Email any business inquires to:

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Sephora Birthday Haul!

With birthdays, come Sephora gift cards. I decided to treat myself to a few new items that I haven’t seen before! I want to give you my first impression based on using these products over the past week.

Tarte Application Mitt, $6. SEPHORA Beauty Amplifier Set and Refresh Spray, $16. Kat Von D Shade + Light Eye Contour Quad, Sage, $26. Too Faced Sweethearts Perfect Flush Blush, Sparkling Bellini, $30. Tatcha Luminous Overnight Memory Serum Concentrate, $110. Fresh Rose Face Mask, $60. Fresh Soy Face Cleanser, $15-$30.


 

      
Tarte Application Mitt: 

This particular self tanning mitt feels soft and velvety. I was intrigued by the texture because I assumed this would mean my tanning mousse would blend in smoother and appear more natural. I also noticed that this mitt is reinforced with durable stitching so your hand won’t randomly break through when you’re in the middle of applying (yes, this has happened to me before.) I love that this has the same plush material on the back of the mitt too, rather than the typical flimsy netting that most tanning mitts have. I am going to use this mitt with my Loving Tan Ultra Dark Mousse and I will keep you posted in an upcoming blog about my feelings towards it!

      
SEPHORA Beauty Amplifier Set and Refresh Spray:

As someone who religiously uses Urban Decay All Nighter setting spray after makeup application, I knew it was going to be difficult to find a mist that was just as good. After using this Sephora Set and Refresh spray for a week, I think it is a wonderful product that sets my makeup beautifully and extends the longevity of my face products. It also smells amazing! I would describe the scent as very light and refreshing, which compliments the slight cooling sensation that the mist leaves on your face. The only reason I wouldn’t label this as my “holy grail” or new favorite makeup setting spray is because of the packaging. For whatever reason, the nozzle that the mist comes out of has stopped working. It sprayed perfectly for the first few days I used it, but now the nozzle appears to be blocked with the liquid from within the bottle and won’t spray out. BUMMER.

     


Kat Von D Shade + Light Eye Contour Quad:

I purchased this palette in the shade “Sage” because it’s promoted as a brown eye enhancing selection of shadows. I also had nothing like this in my collection, so I was drawn to the green-gray, cool tones that I rarely use. When I began swatching these eyeshadows, I immediately recognized how creamy they are! They feel buttery soft to the touch and blend out so beautifully on the lid. I did a look using these shadows as they are recommended in the palette (lid color, crease color, blending shade and highlight) and will be posting that next! You can be the judge if these cool, green tones really enhanced my brown eyes. I’m definitely going to be purchasing the other color versions of this palette after how incredible these performed! 

       
Too Faced Sweethearts Perfect Flush Blush:

I have been wanting to try one of these blushes for a long time! I was so drawn to the new shade “Sparkling Bellini” and felt compelled to purchase it. Peach colored blushes are my favorite kind to wear because I think it compliments my olive complexion. I have found that very pink blushes seem to look unnatural and stand out in a bad way on my face. This particular blush is very peach when you look at and once you swirl the colors around, it leaves a warm orange tone on the cheeks. I personally really like the color it gives off because it suits me and blends in beautifully with my bronzer. I also love the soft shimmery effect that this blush formula gives off. It’s subtle, but definitely provides a glow-from-within look that is perfect for Summer. I also wanted to mention this blush lasted all day for me! 

       
Tatcha Luminous Overnight Memory Serum Concentrate: 

I got this as a free sample with my online order and couldn’t be more impressed with this product. As many of you know, Tatcha is a super luxurious skincare brand that celebrities, like Kim Kardashian, swear by! I jumped on the chance to score a nice sized sample and began using a small amount every night for the past week. It claims to moisturize and plump your skin, all while giving you a glow! This couldn’t be more true. I was actually kind of sad at how well this product worked because a full size is $110…so… It’s definitely an item I would feel a bit guilty repurchasing again and again. However, if you’re in a “treat yo self” type of mood and want to try a really luxurious product that gives you the most beautiful skin, this one truly works and delivered on every claim it listed in the product description. 

      
Fresh Rose Face Mask and Fresh Soy Face Cleanser: 

Yay for getting good, free birthday presents from places I frequently shop! I opted to select the skincare gift option, rather than the Marc Jacobs lipstick and eyeliner duo. I have tried both of these Fresh products before and absolutely love them! It always feels good to know that I’m putting all natural ingredients on my skin throughout the day. Plus Fresh makes a great moisturizer and an eye cream that are perfect for sensitive skin. I’m glad I got these best selling items in portable, travel sized versions!