• New York

    Review: Bare Minerals GEN NUDE Matte Liquid Lipcolor

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    I was at Sephora the other day and redeemed 100 of my points to pick up this reward: Bare Minerals GEN Nude Matte Liquid Lipcolor in the shade called Swag.

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    As soon as I opened the bottle and moved the application wand towards my nose, I fell in LOVE with the scent of baked goods that instantly fluttered through my nostrils and flooded my senses. But, it wasn’t until I tried this liquid lipcolor on (and kept it on) that I fell in love with the amazing product that it truly was!

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    Before I provide my detailed review of this product, let me share some info that bareMinerals has noted on its website with regards to it (Please note I am NOT being paid or endorsed by anyone to share my review).

    The bareMinerals website states that GEN MATTE Liquid Lip Color was formulated in 20 nude liquid lip colours that come in 4 finishes, therefore providing “countless ways to go nude”.

    Gen Nude Matte Liquid Lip Colors are supposed to “compliment every skin tone and lip tone,whether you want an edgy, blanked-out nude look, a natural your-lips-but-better nude, or a deeper neutral contrast color, you’re guaranteed to find shades for any look. Blend and layer colors and finishes for infinite ways to go nude”. The product is Primer-infused so that it shoud give “a gorgeous soft focus effect, and helps with transfer resistance; helps prevent feathering/bleeding” and contains Plant-based waxes so it should feel “moisturizing feel on lips”. This lip color is also reportedly gluten-free, was not tested on animals and is made without petrolatum, parabens, sulfates or phthalates.

    Manufacturer’s Suggested Usage Instructions

    • Apply with the paddle applicator for full-coverage color in one sweep, or use the slim end of the Double-Ended Perfect Fill Lip Brush for a more precise application
    • Finish your look: Use Gen Nude Under Over Lip Liner before or after lipcolor to create more definition around the edges
    • For best results, wait 10 minutes before eating or drinking to allow the color to set

    I was certainly pleased with the overall look of this product when I applied it with lip primer and lip liner (Not bareMinerals brand), and found that this product fared well in standing the tests of time and talking, in that it did not crease or flake. However, there was nothing to be seen or found on my lips other than lip liner after I drank and ate dinner, despite my best efforts to drink with a straw and to eat without touching my lips with the food I was eating. Nonetheless, I am a fan of this product and will definitely buy the regular 4 mL size when I runs out of Swag, although I am not sure about trying out other colours unless bareMinerals offers a set with various minis, which always takes some of the commitment-fear out of trying new shades and products for me.

    Let me know what you think if you’ve tried this product.

    For more information on this product and on the company bareMinerals you can click the links embedded in this post as well as visit their social media pages @bareMinerals #SkinSoGood

    Blog Post originally featured on: https://empirikalsolutionz.wordpress.com/2016/09/19/review-bare-minerals-gen-nude-matte-liquid-lipcolor/

  • New York

    Essential Packing Tips For Cold Weather Vacations

    Taking a vacation doesn’t always involve sunbathing and hitting the beach. Cold weather holidays are a chance to explore the outdoors and try some adrenaline-pumping activities. If you’re planning a winter break, here are some packing tips to help you prepare.

    Adventure holidays

    Have you booked a climbing trip or are you planning to go cycling, hiking or fishing on your travels? If you’re visiting a cold country, and you plan to spend most of your time outdoors, you’ll need warm clothing. In countries like Switzerland, Canada, and Iceland, temperatures can fall well below freezing. Make sure you have plenty of thermals and warm layers. Protect your extremities with gloves, thick socks, and hats. Choose sturdy footwear, and cover vests, jumpers, and fleeces with a waterproof coat. Keep your neck warm with a scarf. Look out for brands and products that are designed for the outdoors.  You’ll need something more high-tech than your average puffer jacket. Search for reviews and compare prices online. You can often save money on popular brands by making use of offers like Journey coupons.

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    Image from https://www.flickr.com/photos/grand_canyon_nps/8506635837

     

    Skiing holidays

    Are you preparing to whizz down the pristine white slopes of Whistler, St Anton or Val d’Isere? If so, you’ll need to pack carefully. Your winter dog walking outfit is not geared up for the snow-capped peaks. Make sure you have specialist ski gear that will keep you warm and dry. You can hire equipment like skis and goggles out there. But make sure you have appropriate clothing with you. If you’re keen to enjoy the apres-ski, don’t forget to pack some more formal attire. Faux fur is a great addition to any winter wardrobe. It will keep you toasty and ensure you look glam.

    Image by http://www.adventurejay.com/blog/index.php?m=04&y=15

     

    Winter cruises

    Are you embarking on an adventure in the Norwegian Fjords, or going whale watching in Alaska? If you’re cruising in the winter, you’ll need a mixture of outfits. On the boat, it’ll be nice and warm. But when you venture out into the wilds, it’s a totally different story. Pack some comfortable clothes to relax on your journey, as well as some smart casual outfits for dinner and drinks. Tracksuits are excellent for lounging around. Go for long-sleeved dresses or jeans, jackets and blouses for more formal occasions. For outdoor pursuits, you’ll need a thick coat, walking shoes or fur-lined boots, and thermals. Wrap up warm with a hat, a scarf, and gloves. If you’re trying out activities like snowmobiling, it’s also wise to take a balaclava.

    Image source: https://pixabay.com/en/cruise-cruise-ship-ship-norway-874485/

    Usually, when you think of packing for a vacation, you start digging out bikinis, sandals, and shorts. If you’re going a winter holiday, your formula will probably be very different. Your main aim should be to keep warm and stay comfortable. If you’re going hiking or cycling, you don’t need to look your best. Focus on layering and wrapping up. Invest in outerwear and fleeces, but don’t neglect your fingers and toes. Go for thick socks and thermals, and don’t forget hats, scarves, and gloves.