Two for Thursday: Quick Drugstore Holiday Picks

Since it's the end of the month and I'll also be posting a monthly favorites, I wanted to share two quick reviews on drugstore (or drugstore-priced) beauty holiday kits.

First up is the Wet n Wild Megalast Nail Color Collection.

This set is marked at $4.99, but I found it last weekend on sale for $2.99 at both Rite Aid and CVS, with $2 rewards attached to it. Yes, that makes this set $0.99.

In this set, you receive nine of the Megalast nail polishes, each weighing in at 0.17fl/5ml. This is one of the cheapest formulas at the drugstore, but one of my favorites. It lasts and lasts on my nails.

I thought so much of it that I picked up one for me, and one for my mother for Christmas. If that's not a stamp of approval, I'm not sure what is.

I feel like this kit has neutrals, bolds, brights, and classic shades- essentially, all you'd need for any number of looks. I think that this is a great kit.

Next up, the Real Techniques Fresh Face Favorites Kit.

This retails for $19.99 at Ulta, but I found this kit for $6.99 at my local TJMaxx.

This set comes with three brushes: a BB/CC brush,a contour brush, and a detailer brush.

It also comes with a sponge wedge.

Do I think this is worth $19.99? Nope. But if you spot it at your local TJMaxx like I did, remember that it's this year's kit and totally worth it. I love Real Techniques brushes, and I find them to be really high quality.

Sorry for the quick post, but I wanted to share two kits I've picked up recently with you.

bareMinerals You Won't Believe Your Eyes Eyeshadow Kit

Today I have the first of several bareMinerals posts that I'll be featuring over the next couple of weeks. This brand has only caught my eye lately. There's a bit of a story behind this item- the bareMinerals You Won't Believe Your Eyes Eyeshadow "Trio" ($10, Ulta), which was a Black Friday special release.

I'm a sucker for advent calendars, and I've been mulling the bareMinerals advent calendar since it was released. Here's the problem: I've never tried any of their classic loose eyeshadows! So when I spotted this for $10, it seemed like a better way to sample the brand. I figured that if I liked the formula, I'd pick up a full-sized shadow in a color of my choice. This claims to be a $34.50 value, which I seriously doubt. 

In this kit, there are two mini eyeshadows (0.28g/0.01oz each) and an Eye Defining Brush.

Let's jump into the eyeshadows. 

First up, bff. 

I didn't find this on Ulta's website, but I'm also writing this post with a headache- so I may have just missed it. The brand calls this "shimmering pink pearl."

I found this to be a very pale beige with pink undertones- but really frosty and metallic. I wouldn't call this a pearl at all. Take a look at the swatch (dry, with finger):

Very opaque- and straight up metallic. This will be a nice all-over lid shade for subtle glam.

Queen Tiffany is in the normal shimmer range ($15, 0.02oz).

The brand calls this "medium bronzed brown."

I was really impressed by the shimmer and complexity of this shade that's visible even in the loose bits.

I think this could be a lovely, everyday was of color. It's not as metallic or harsh as bff, so I see this being more flattering across a number of complexions.

Here's the two shades, swatched:

I think this duo would find a welcome place in any makeup lover's stocking this holiday season!

I'll also take a moment to talk about the Eye Defining Brush that's included. I would never use it with these shadows, but I'll put it to the test sometime. It looks like it'd be good on the outer V.

I haven't played with these other than swatching, but wanted to post a quickie overview of the kit in case you were wondering about it as a present. I think it's the way to go rather than the advent calendar, personally!  I'll post in the comments as I play with these- I think this is a very affordable into to the brand's classic product line.

For $10, I think this is a great value and I'm glad I picked up this kit. Sometimes you wonder about the Black Friday releases, but I think this is a winner from bareMinerals.

Sephora Dark Rainbow PRO Flawless Airbrush #56

I have a quickie review for you this evening- mostly because the VIB sale is coming up and I wanted to get in as many holiday posts as I can.

Yes, I'm a brush junkie. I used to purchase every single special edition I could get my hands on, but I've been more selective as of late.

Meet the Holiday 2017 Sephora Dark Rainbow PRO Flawless Airbrush #56.

Oh, the holo! She's beautiful!

OK, focus.

First, the basics. The Sephora Dark Rainbow #56 brush is exclusive to Sephora (duh) and retails for $32. I purchased mine from Sephora.com, and didn't check if it's in stores yet. One of the things I truly appreciate is that the regular brush also retails for $32. Nicely done, Sephora!

This is my second #56 brush- I picked up the Mara Hoffman collab a couple of summers ago.. I also have a mini since it was the Rouge renewal gift for 2017.

According to Sephora, this is supposed to be a synthetic foundation brush; I prefer a stiffer brush head if I'm going to use a brush for foundation. I find this to be nice for any number of powders- all-over face, finishing, even some cheek work. (For that matter, you don't have to use brushes for their stated tools- just understand what types of products they work well with and what might work with your personal technique!)

I really like this oil slick color- it's a beautiful addition to my collection that I can actually spot. Now, let's talk about the brush itself and whether it's worth picking up for you.

As I mentioned, this is a synthetic brush. It's got medium-long bristles, and it's initially fairly flat as it's packed from the factory:

Over time, this does have the tendency to spread but it's not by a lot. I find this most useful for applying cheek powders that you want a little precision with- but not a pointed brush. I've used it for a bronzetour and also for blush. Due to the density of the head, it does pack a punch. I find it's best with items that are firmly pressed- the synthetic bristles can pick up even the firmest pressed powders.

Is it worth $32? I don't know because there are more and more brushes that are kicking butt at the drugstore (hello, Wet n Wild) and this is a synthetic brush. I tend to hate synthetic brushes, but it's nice to have a few in my collection. This is a highly popular brush at Sephora because it can multi-task. If you've got one, I wouldn't rush out to get this. However, if you've been looking to pick it up why not grab the pretty rainbow one?

MAC Snow Ball Face Bag for Holiday 2017

Today I have a sneak peak at one of the items releasing on Thursday as a part of MAC's Snow Ball Holiday Collection- the Snow Ball Face Bag ($49.50, claims $85 value).

I referenced how I purchased this a week early in a post on Sunday. What I didn't say is that I found the experience to be as infuriating as the Sephora Epic Rewards, and even worse overall because when I expressed my unhappiness with the situation it was suggested that I stalk the website or find a connection. Not the way to treat your alleged best customers, MAC. I don't talk about my professional world because it's not applicable. But let's just say that sitting on MAC's website would be unacceptable, and I don't sit on my cell either. I didn't really feel like spending a single penny after that, but I knew I'd kick myself if I passed on an opportunity to nab Whisper of Gilt after passing last year.

Rant over, let's get back to the Face Bag. It comes in a clear box that I tossed without even thinking.

I'm not sure that this is the most value-packed MAC holiday kit, but it's got a product I've been curious about for a long time in a stunning pattern.

The packaging is very glitzy overall.

Lets talk first about the makeup bag. It's rose gold with silver sequins, and a faux-fur pom pom on the zipper. I don't see myself using this- which is sad because I usually love and use the bags from MAC holiday.  Moving on...

Next up is a mini fan brush.

This MAC 140SES is synthetic (boo!) and features a sparkly metallic rose gold handle. It feels very solid; I just very much prefer natural brushes.

As cute as the handle is, it feels slippery to my hands and I've been concerned that I'd drop it into the product the three times I've used it so far.

the back of the brush looks the same, minus the label. Just being complete here since I know I have this early.

Regarding functionality, it's fine. I have better fan brushes, but I've also used worse. I don't necessarily love it for highlighting, but it's nice to have a different shape to add to my collection. I wouldn't rush out to buy a set of brushes like this.


Now, onto the star of the show.

MAC's Whisper of Gilt Extra Dimension Skinfinish has gotten a glitzy makeover for Holiday 2017. The compact is tough to capture. Think metallic cracked ice or cracked glass effect.

It's multifaceted rose gold metallic- but it almost glitters despite not actually being glittery. Think fun hammered metal.

I could sit and look at this packaging all day. That said, let's talk about the product. You get 7.5g of product, and my compact states it's not for individual sale. I'm flagging this because the regular Extra Dimension Skinfinish highlighters contain 9g for $34. This is another sign that the value for this kit isn't really there.

Let's be honest, this isn't a value buy- it's because you want a full pan of a cult-classic highlighter in a gorgeous compact.

The powder has the same stunning snowflake pattern raised on the pan as the other products in the collection. This is a raised pattern. Sad but true: this is so pretty that I hesitated to even use it. I might buy a backup to stare at so I can use and destroy this one.

Let's talk about Whisper of Gilt.

It's a cult classic for a reason.

This warm gold highlighter really was one of the first blingy highlights. That said, I think I've been desensitized to highlights because I was surprised how natural it is.

I can't wear that many gold highlights, but this really will work well for me. I suspect it's the peachy undertones (much like I can wear the Peach Nectar Laura Geller highlight but Gilded Honey doesn't work as well for me.).

I'm surprised because I assumed it'd be too dark and too much. It's beautiful and I get it. Despite the drama, I'm happy to have it in my collection.

bareMinerals Take Me With You Complexion Rescue Set for Holiday 2017

Today I'd like to share my thoughts on the first true holiday set I picked up this year. I hate myself for purchasing holiday back in September, but that's how it goes. Let's talk about the bareMinerals Take Me With You 3 Pc Complexion Rescue Try-Me Kit.  I purchased mine at Ulta during the 21 Days of Beauty sale for $39. The packaging claims it's a $67.75 value- which I'm not sure about.

The kit is available in six shades. One quick aside- shame on you, bareMinerals, for skewing this so light. Shades 01, 02, 03, 05, 07, and 09 are available. I'm personally thrilled that my Shade (Opal 01) was available since it normally isn't, but four of the first five shades? There are a total of 16 in the line.

You get three items in this kit: a deluxe-sized version of the Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream, a mini face Smoothing brush, and a deluxe sample of Golden Gate blush.

Oh, and there's a very soft and shiny makeup bag as well:

It's nice, but I feel like my bag would eat that makeup bag up in about 5 minutes.

Let's start with the Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream.

I haven't formally reviewed it on the blog, but it's been creeping in my monthly favorites. This is by far and away my current favorite tinted moisturizer. I've been using it rather quickly. You receive 20ml/0.68fl oz of product, making it travel friendly. To be honest, that's one of the reasons why I purchased the kit- the full size is 1.18 fl oz, making it not TSA-compliant.

I'm going to swatch Opal 01 on my hand here. On the left is a dot; it's blended out on the rest of my hand.

It's pretty much perfect for my NW13-15 complexion. In case you're wondering, I used my full-sized tube to swatch so I can keep the small travel guy as long as possible.

Now, let's talk about the brush. I'm not sure about this, but I'll continue to work with this.

It's travel-sized and would work in a pinch.

Lastly, let's talk about the blush. I may be the last one on Earth, but I haven't played with bareMinerals' loose blushes before.

Having looked at them at Ulta before, this is the shade I would've selected- so I'm happy to have a small size to experiment with. This is the type of item I am thrilled to get in kits because I'll never use a full size and I'm not sure about the formula.

I know this is bareMinerals' niche, but the closure totally impressed me.

Let's talk about Golden Gate. It's a bit deep for my skintone, but I think it might've been too much to ask for them to customize blushes to complexions.

This is the absolute tiniest bit, blended out. I guess it will be lasting me forever. It's a ruddy orange shimmer that's a summer/fall shade for me. I'll keep playing with it, but loose blush sort of annoys me right now. Am I the only one?

Bottom Line: I think this is a good way to try multiple products from bareMinerals. If any of the kits will match your complexion, I think it might be worth checking out.

Jason Wu for Lancome Mini Precision Cheek Brush

Today marks the end of my little string of Lancome reviews. I fully anticipate my next ones will be the next group of Lip Lovers that I have purchased.

I fell in love with the Jason Wu for Lancome Mini Precision Cheek Brush ($20). Why? I'm a sucker for mini brushes that perform like their full-sized counterparts but can live comfortably in any makeup bag.

I know I'm a bit slow on this review, but I like to give all brushes a real test before I review them.

The Mini Precision Cheek Brush is the travel version of the Lancome Precision Cheek Brush #7.  I've found the mini to be perfectly sized for any makeup bag, and use it for both blush touch-ups and for all-over powder touch-ups. I actually prefer it for all-over powder because the bristles are so tightly packed. When I tested this with a number of blushes, I had a hard time not picking up too much powder.

This item sold quickly online, but I noticed it at a few counters over the past couple of weeks.

MAC Alluring Aquatic Collection: 233 Split Fibre Eye Shadow Brush

Let me state this for the record: I used to be a total MAC devotee, but really got turned off by the way that the brand approaches limited edition collections. I find a few pieces per year that I purchase, but it takes a lot to pull me back in.  And the new Alluring Aquatic Collection pulled me right back in.  I've brought three items so far, and may be picking up several other pieces.

I was only able to find one of my coveted items in-store the day that the collection launched at counters: the 233 Split Fibre Eye Shadow Brush ($25).

The 233 brush is distinct for two reasons. First, the aestetic: it's the same beautiful brushed teal as the rest of the collection. It's a stunning brush.  Second, it's double-sided. One side has synthetic fibers, the other natural fibers.

Size-wise, it's almost identical to the 239, which is a staple in my daily routine. It might actually be identical, but I didn't pull out the tape measure.  It functions the same as the 239, though.

Is this a must-have? Probably not.  Have I been using it on a daily basis since I bought it? Yes.  I think it's a nice take on a classic shape and like getting two brushes in one.  I prefer the natural fiber side for powdery shadows and synthetic bristles for creamier formulas.

The 239 side/shape is perfect for lid work and is a true workhorse in my brush wardrobe. I reach for it on a a near-daily basis, so having another version is fun.  The teal shade is beautiful, but not required.

I recommend this brush to anyone who loves the 239 and wants a split-fiber alternative. It's the same price as the 239, so I look at it as a "why not?" type of purchase.

Unlike the other products, this seems to be still available via most retailers.

Edward Bess Luxury Face Brush

Edward Bess is one of those brands I've read a lot about and always wanted to try. I highly recommend that everyone does a bit of reading about the creator and his eponymous brand.  Edward Bess products are truly created for a woman to look her best.  They're not flashy, but they're high quality items that make a woman look her best.

I recently took advantage of the sale being offered as the line exits Sephora. (Don't worry, it will still be available through other retailers.) I can already tell that this won't be my last purchase from this line.

Today I'm pleased to be sharing the Edward Bess Luxury Face Brush ($56) with you,

Edward Bess makes only two brushes: the Luxury Face Brush and the Luxury Eye Brush.  I was more than a little skeptical that the Luxury Face Brush could really meet all of my needs. I owe the brush and its creator an apology. Likewise, I was blown away by the bristles, even though they initially seemed like they would be too harsh.

I have a checkered past with kabuki brushes. In theory, I like them and I want to use them. However, I'd not yet found one that worked for me. I'm pleased to say that this brush far outperformed my expectations..  It may be small, but it's small but mighty.

The Edward Bess Luxury Face Brush is about 3inches long in total; 1.5"-long handle and 1.5"-long bristles. The black bristles are slightly wavy in appearance. According to the box, it was manufactured in China.

Yes, it's really this small. But it's a fantastic tool.

It turns out that this brush is an incredibly versatile tool. I've used it for both all-over powder (Chanel Les Beiges) and bronzer, which requires a more precise hand.  The performance of this brush blew me away. It picked up exactly the right amount of product and deposited it on my face for a natural look.  It's clear to me that Edward Bess' aesthetic is you, but better.  Consider me sold.  The small size of this brush makes it easy to take on-the-go for touch-ups. I only wish it had a case to protect it.

Admittedly, I haven't put this through many washings. The times I have washed it, there wasn't a lot of shedding, and it retained its shape.

This is the first kabuki brush I've reallly enjoyed. This is what I've been searching far and wide for.  Even more remarkably, this can replace powder, bronzer, and  (if you're incredibly careful) a fluffy blush brush for travel.  I'm sold.  So much so that I'm thinking of buying a second one, at full price. It's now my tool of choice for my beloved Les Beiges.

Let's be honest: if I'm in love with the Face Brush, I can see the Eye Brush ($40) in my future.  I've also learned an important lesson: don't judge a brush by its appearance. Edward Bess has created a superior face brush in terms of design and performance.