Kat Von D Studded Kiss Creme Lipstick Swatch In Lolita

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Kat Von D Studded Kiss Creme Lipstick Swatch In Lolita

Hello! Today we are going to look at another one of Kat Von D’s Studded Kiss Creme Lipsticks in the shade “Lolita”. As I scrolled through the comments about this lippie on Sephora’s website, it seemed to be the most popular hue amungst the crowd. But, I don’t know, maybe it’s because I’m already not partial to the lipstick brand already after an unsuccessful swatch, but I didn’t think Lolita was that great. Lol, but I’ll let ya’ll be the judge of that! Take a look and let’s discuss:

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Now, I get why to some this bold take on a nude lip in a dazzling rosewood hue would be a “universally flattering” color. I SAY FALSE! Lolita applied EXTREMELY brown on my lips. I’m talking chocolate milk with the tiniest splash of strawberry mixed in for good measure brown. I thought I was going to get a sultry dusky pink and ended up looking like I stole every single cookie in the cookie jar.

The funny thing is, is that I think a dusky pink is an amazing universal color and I wish they would have stuck with that idea. Lolita was quite possibly the most misleading packaging and swatch I’ve had in my life. Normally, all I need do when I’m lipstick shopping is run a line on my hand to quickly judge the actual color. However, this swatch proved to be much different.

As I applied a lipstick heart to my hand, I was shocked at the results and just how dark it really did apply. So incredulous that I actually took the time to apply this lipstick with my makeup to see the full effect. I thought that maybe the chocolatey shades would soften against the natural pink of my lips but I thought wrong. And, even my boyfriend confirmed!

I was looking forward to trying Lolita out because many a blogger has posted about it before. But, unfortunately, it ended in one big fat “whomp whomp” lol, it was a hand me down free sample, though. So, no harm no foul!

What color do you think is universally flattering? What is a color that looks good or bad on you? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Facing Your Fears: A Memoir

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Facing Your Fears: A Memoir

Hi! For those of you who recall, around this time last year I was suffering through a recovery from an oral surgery gone severely wrong. For those of you who don’t recall, I had an oral surgery last year that went severely wrong, which you can read about on the provided link! I have always been wary about the dental arts and, after such a traumatic experience, the last thing I wanted was any more people poking around in my mouth with sharp objects.

Unfortunately, things didn’t pan out the way I hoped, which was never having to go to a dentist or oral surgeon again. Especially because the surgery I had last year left me with some lingering problems that needed corrected. And, especially because I turn twenty-six this year, these issues needed sorted out ASAP before I get off my mom and dad’s insurance.

So, with a heaping dose of anxiety, I made my way to the periodontist who my mom recommended as a patient herself. After an exam, the decisions were made that 1) the doctor was very nice and 2) I would need to undergo a deep cleaning of my gums to help with the recession that was happening as well as the recession that became worse post surgery.

This past week, I had the first deep cleaning on the right half of my mouth and I would be a liar if I said I wasn’t freaking out. Last year, one bad procedure on my mouth left me drinking Ensure and out of work for a month and a half. However, I knew that all of this work had to be done so I bucked up and sat myself in the chair after announcing how nervous I was, of course.

In fact, I started crying as soon as the first numbing injection took place. Yes, I was being a baby but I just couldn’t help myself. I was traumatized by a quack of an oral surgeon and being back in an office to get work done on my mouth made a whole flood of scared emotions come out. But, I gritted my teeth metaphorically speaking because my mouth was open and had the doctor continue.

By the time the numbing kicked in, I literally couldn’t feel a thing and the doctor spent at least an hour cleaning the first half of my mouth (I’ll get the second half done this week). At the end of the procedure, my periodontist thanked me for trusting him because he knew how much I had suffered and how hard it was for me to allow someone to do that type of work on me.

I was so moved by this because I was downright embarrassed. No one wants to hear that they take poor care of their mouth and also no one wants to burst into tears as soon as a needle gets pulled out. I didn’t feel one ounce of shame after the doctor thanked me because he understood where I was coming from and didn’t take it lightly that I was even there to begin with.

After the procedure, I was a bit sore and nauseous but, within a few days, everything was back to normal. My mouth already feels infinitely better and, shockingly, I’m looking forward to getting the other half taken care of this week. The doctor helped restore my faith in those working in the field of dentistry and it also motivated me to continue taking the best care of my teeth as all of the problems I have begin to resolve.

I faced my fear in a big way and the risk was definitely worth the reward. Despite not feeling well post procedure, I felt proud of myself and strangely confident. I confronted one of my biggest fears head on and I came out on top. This is a lesson that I am going to always come back to in my life because sometimes taking a leap of faith pays off in the best way!

What are you afraid of? How did you confront that fear? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Why A Balanced Diet Is The Best Method For Health And Happiness

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Why A Balanced Diet Is The Best Method For Health And Happiness

We live in an age where people are following so many different diets to try and get the perfect figure or feel happier. But the big problem with this is that they are all, to an extent, fad diets. We live in a world where there’s so much fantastic food that the old expression “everything in moderation” is a far better option for everyone. But why should we avoid going for fad diets? And what can we do to make sure that we follow the rules of a balanced diet? Read on to find out!

There’s So Much Great Food Out There:

From a tres leches cake to Neapolitan ice cream, Aberdeen Angus burgers, and everything in between, there’s so much great food out there it can feel like hell depriving ourselves of these treats. Sometimes you’ve got to take inspiration from European cultures like the French. They know there’s so much fantastic food out there that they allow a little indulgence. When people opt for such a strict diet they’re doing it to make themselves feel better, but they seldom do. But if you can just follow the rule of eating healthily 80% of the time and allowing the rest for the things you really fancy, you can still eat all of that delicious food without feeling guilty.

Sometimes a more balanced diet can be as simple as exploring new recipes with an emphasis on what you need to be including more of. For example, if your diet lacks protein you could try out these ground beef recipes or search for dishes with plenty of beans or lentils if you are a vegetarian. Need more veggies? There are so many fabulous ways to dress up a salad to your liking! Trying out new recipes is not only an exciting way to switch things up but will provide yourself with more of what your body needs.

A Diet Implies That It’s Temporary:

We’ve got to get rid of the word “diet” and think about it as a lifestyle change. When we go on a diet for a specific goal like losing weight, as soon as we end up hitting our goal it’s likely we will put it back on. You’ve got to think about the overall benefits of a lifestyle change. For example, eating the right foods can help your skin, make you feel healthier, and even sleep better. But when we go on a diet of such extremes we are pushing our psychological limits. We might even be calorie counting in our sleep! It’s far better to make a gradual swap to a new way of eating.

The Jury Is Still Out On Many Fad Diets:

Because there are many fad diets that purport to be the key to youth, a lot of these diets don’t have the evidence. The one true barometer when you change your eating patterns is to listen to how you feel. So many people go to such extremes to lose weight that they can feel the shock. A crash diet is something that people do before bikini season, but does going through all that psychological hardship make you feel happier? The one true test of eating well is a little bit of what you fancy combined with foods that you know make you feel good.

Everything in moderation is the key. And when you eat the things that your body wants it rewards you with extra energy and less need for sleep. If you can follow the 80/20 rule where you eat healthily 80% of the time and leave 20% for treats, you’re not depriving yourself mentally and will still reap the benefits.

Featured Image By: Pexels – CC0 Licence

5 Common Causes Of Hair Loss In Men

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5 Common Causes Of Hair Loss In Men

Male pattern baldness, the most common cause of hair loss in men, accounts for about 95 percent of hair loss. When men reach the age of 50, about 85 percent of men will experience hair thinning. Approximately 25 percent of men who will have male pattern baldness will begin to lose their hair by 21 years old. In the Philippines, hair loss shampoo is a recommended treatment, but it’s important to determine the causes to address them appropriately:

Male Pattern Baldness:

Male pattern baldness is the most common cause of hair loss in men. Usually, it starts in their late 30s and worsens as time passes by. But in some cases, hair loss occurs earlier, even in their 20s. Most men dread losing their hair so will start looking into hair loss treatments as soon as they notice a significant difference. Thankfully, there are many treatments available today. The most common one is buying hair loss shampoo products that contain essential vitamins and compounds to promote hair growth. If these products have not been helpful for you, then you might be a good candidate for a hair transplant. You can schedule a Free Consultation for Hair Transplant right this moment!

The hair needs ample circulation for nutrients and vitamins to reach the hair strands. Using hair loss shampoo enhances the supply to the hair strands, making them strong and preventing hair fall. If the treatments you are currently trying aren’t working, there are multiple other routes that you can take for a full head of hair and a confidence boost. Contact your general practitioner or, perhaps, research neograft cost for its benefits to come up with a solution that is right for you.

Old Age:

Growing old may mean losing more hair than usual. Age is an important driver of hair loss, but mostly, it’s just a natural phase. Usually, people lose about 100 strands of hair per day. When people age, including women, they lose more. Hair thinning is a sign of aging, and it happens in many parts of the body. In women, it’s usually caused by a decline in the hormone estrogen. Services at facilities like Cosmed HairSkin Solutions (or a similar practice in your local area) can really help with slowing down this process through rejuvenating treatments. These treatments can strengthen hair follicles and promote natural regrowth. This can be a huge boost in your self confidence and is worth researching if you are looking for a new lease on life for your locks.

Family History:

If your parents suffer from hair loss, you might have it in the future. Hair loss can be hereditary. Though it’s inevitable since it’s genetic, slowing it down through everyday hair thickening products can help. Shampoos, oils, and hair supplements can help boost the hair’s strength, slowing down hair loss. You can also turn to professional services like Eldorado Hair Replacement (or a similar company in your local area) to create a treatment regime that is right for you.

Stress:

One of the most common causes of hair loss in men is stress. Feeling distressed can affect the body in many ways. In some people who experience anxiety, they have bald patches on the scalp. The good thing is, it’s not permanent, and if the stress is controlled, the hair will grow back. Managing stress can be done through eating a healthy and balanced diet, getting enough sleep, engaging in regular exercise, and doing meditation.

Medical Condition:

Many health conditions may cause hair loss, including thyroid problems. Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism both cause alopecia and hair thinning. Controlling the thyroid hormones and maintaining healthy levels can improve overall health and prevent further hair loss. If the condition is treated, the hair will grow back.

Hair loss affects men more but can impact women, too. It’s essential to take care of the scalp and hair if you have any of these conditions. Using recommended and approved hair loss products can help reduce hair loss and promote a healthy scalp.

Kat Von D Studded Kiss Creme Lipstick Swatch In Outlaw

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Kat Von D Studded Kiss Creme Lipstick Swatch In Outlaw

Hello! Today, we are going to take a look at Kat Von D’s Studded Kiss Creme Lipstick in Outlaw. In my makeup hand me down haul from my sister, I received a sample pack of three Kat Von D lipsticks. I have never been too interested in trying her makeup out before and after giving her lipstick a try, I am definitely not interested in trying her makeup out further, lol. Take a look at some pics and let’s discuss:

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When looking at the sample pack marketing and the lipstick pod, Outlaw looks like a really true and classic red. However, it was a different story once it was on my skin. Maybe I see colors differently, but this shade looks so pinky to me. In fact, the first thing that came to my mind was that it looked like strawberry jam. This is fine, but I just don’t like when the marketing of the color and the actual outcome looks completely different.

Another qualm I had with this lipstick is its holding power. Don’t get me wrong, I know that a creme lipstick is a very different texture from your traditional glossy or matte lippie. BUT, I should not be able to remove a HUGE portion of the lipstick just with the pad of my finger, creme or not. I was also able to clean the entire swatch off with just one swipe of my hand towel with hardly any residue left over. In other words, good luck wearing this lipstick to lunch!

I was really disappointed with the quality of this lipstick because I have heard good things about the Kat Von D brand. I scoff at the twenty dollar price tag and am just fine with my drugstore brands, thank you very much.

How do you feel about Kat Von D’s makeup? How do you feel about Kat Von D in general? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Marc’s Accessory Haul

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Marc’s Accessory Haul

Hi! An Ohio staple that all of us know and love is a discount grocery store called Marc’s. I pretty much exclusively shop there for my groceries but they are “famous” for their closeout section. You literally never know what you’re going to find in the closeouts. From holiday decor to home wear and clothes the selection varies and sometimes you can find brands from Target, if you’re lucky!

Similar to TJMaxx, every Marc’s location is different and will offer closeouts that you can’t find at another store. When shopping at a different Marc’s than my normal one with a client, I ended up with an accessory haul that cost me a whole five dollars, which I was so excited about! Take a look and let’s discuss:

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I have grown increasingly fond of headbands this past year and scored my adorable emerald green bow band for FIFTY CENTS. Is it of the best quality? No. BUT, it looks awesome against my red hair and the bow is just darling for a preppy chic accessory. I also love my little boot bracelet that I plan on doubling as a hair tie for a funky vibe fresh out of the 80s.

What I am most excited about, however, are my new silver and gold necklaces that were two for a dollar. I was enamored with the chain link style material as well as all of the different styling possibilities that come with it. From layering them at different lengths to wearing them as a bracelet, headband, anklet, or hair tie, they make for a quick fix to spruce up any outfit.

There is nothing better than scoring a treat yoself purchase for a steal. I got eight new accessories for five bucks and you really can’t beat that. I’m well aware that the quality may not be as good but, styled correctly, they can end up looking like a million bucks!

What is your favorite discount store? Do you have a store similar to Marc’s in your neck of the woods? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Get Ready With Me: Valentine’s Day Edition

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Get Ready With Me: Valentine’s Day Edition

Hello everyone! Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, which means we definitely need to talk makeup. Of course, the outfit is important too. But, bringing that girly sweetness to your face will tie the whole look together for a romantic date night with your significant other. There are a few key things that make for a successful Valentine’s Day makeup and I am going to share them with all of you today. Check it out:

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Accessories:

When I think of a perfect date night look, the first thing that comes to mind is a sassy pout, huge eyelashes, and glowing skin. These are the three things that we will be covering so let’s get to it:

Sassy Pout:

Now, normally, I say wear whatever shade of lipstick that you want. However, we are talking Valentine’s Day and it is all about the red and pink. Nothing screams girly sweet more than a pretty pink lipstick in seashell, salmon, or a shocking hot hue. And nothing screams edgy classic more than a bold red lip.

Whichever shade you choose, tie it into your outfit somehow. For example, the skirt that I plan on wearing has red hearts and lipstick kisses on it, which matches my lippie perfectly. Rocking pink pearls or jewelry? Slick on a similar hue for a look that is oh so cohesive and oh so cute!

Huge Eyelashes:

I don’t know about all of you, but I still flirt so hard with my boyfriend as if it were our first date. And, perhaps the most flirty makeup staple of all is huge eyelashes. Don’t go too overboard with the rest of your eye makeup and opt for longer than life lashes that you can bat to your beau across the dinner table.

I prefer Too Faced’s Better Than Sex mascara myself, because just one application gives you five times more length than any drugstore brand I’ve ever used. But, whatever your mascara preference is, apply liberally and be sure to comb through your lashes after each use to avoid clumping. Nothing ruins flirtatiously looking up through your lashes like huge clumps!

Glowing Skin:

As far as blush goes, I am wearing a few different shades of pink blended together in the pictures above. I would suggest going this route for an added touch of baby doll adorable. But, for the ultimate glowing skin, we need a highlighter! Whether you’re eating dinner by candlelight or sipping on cocktails in a lounge, when the soft lighting hits the highlighter on your face, magic happens.

I absolutely love Sephora’s Golden Hour highlighter in Dusk. At first glance, it just looks light pink. But, it has golden sparkle mixed into it for a shimmer straight out of a fairy tale. Hello, glowing skin! Everyone has their own techniques for where to apply highlighter and I always hit the following areas when completing my MOTD:

  • From the hairline to the end of my nose
  • The apples of my cheeks
  • My chin
  • From the top of my cheeks downwards
  • From the far corners of my eyes arching over my brows

When applied in the places above, no lighting is bad lighting for me because every angle has been covered. Dust on as little or as much as you want depending on how bold you feel like going. I usually just put one application on each area but it will call for more or less depending on where you’re going for your date night!

So, there you have it! I had such fun taking these pictures and concocting the perfect tips and tricks to beat your face like a pro this Valentine’s Day. Now, get out there and celebrate your love! 😀

PS: Don’t forget these must haves in your purse for your big Valentine’s Day date!

Valentine’s Day Purse Essentials:

You’re probably only going to be carrying a small purse on Valentine’s Day, so you need to make the most of it. Your cell, coin purse, and keys are obvious essentials. If you’ve put on your make up properly, you shouldn’t need to reapply it during the evening. This means you should be able to get away with just taking along a lipstick.

You can get lipstick cases with mirrors in them. This can be handy for topping up without either having to carry an extra mirror or use up the battery on your phone. If you’re planning on taking a lot of photos with your phone, think about carrying an external battery. You can get ones small enough to pop into a clutch. You can also get selfie lights to put on your phone. These can give you lots of light where you need it without using up your phone battery and they’re nicer to use than a regular camera flash.

If your purse is big enough, you can pop in some folding slippers in case you want to lose the shoes later. If it’s not, at least put in a couple of invisible blister plasters, just to be on the safe side. On that note, if you’re looking for love but don’t have a regular date, make sure you have some condoms. You don’t want to spoil the romance by having to order STD testing.

How are you celebrating Valentine’s Day? Do you have an outfit or makeup look in mind? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

L’Oreal Colour Riche Lipstick In British Red Swatch

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L’Oreal Colour Riche Lipstick In British Red Swatch

Howdy! My big sister always hooks me up with the best makeup hand me downs. But, sometimes, my hand me ups to her end up back in my possession. For example, the shade we’re going to discuss today called British Red by L’Oreal used to be my signature. I used to apply it almost every day when I worked at PacSun and would blow dry my lips for the ultimate matte finish.

Boy, am I glad I glowed up since then!

Haha, since I have discovered my favorite matte lippie compliments of NYX, I scoff at the fact that I used to literally blow dry my mouth. But, hey, desperate times! Despite this silly memory, British Red will always hold a special place in my heart so take a look at some pics and let’s discuss:

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Back in the day when I was sporting British Red, my hair was a lot less vibrant than it is now. Don’t get me wrong, I was still Lil Red, but it just didn’t pop as much as my current shade of Vidal Sassoon’s Runway Red. So, it probably makes more sense why I was into a shade that is actually quite orangey now that I’m looking at it again with the seasoned eyes of a woman who is very picky about her red lipstick!

After revisiting this lipstick, I can confidently say that I would not use it again because it definitely would not be flattering on me now. The vibrant orange undertones in my hair mixed with the red/orange of the lippie would be enough to get me shipped off to Clown School. BUT, that doesn’t mean that the color doesn’t slap because it is actually really pretty.

The ultra rich pigments in this lipstick make for a perfect pout and I have fond memories of feeling my damn self when wearing it. I am just not a fan of glossy lipstick and around seven or eight years ago, the matte revolution of lipstick hadn’t happened. Hence, why I blow dried it!

Although you won’t spot me rocking British Red any time soon, L’Oreal makes a good lipstick. I never had problems with it smearing or smudging during an eight hour day of talking nonstop and shotgunning Starbucks when working in the mall. This is definitely a brand that you could wear confidently during a long day of work without the fear of it ending up all over your pearly whites!

How has your lipstick style evolved over time? What are some of your hacks for a smudge free pout? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Groovy Movies: 1917 Edition

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Groovy Movies: 1917 Edition

Hi! I have always loved going to the movies. To me, there is nothing better than catching a flick on the big screen with your family, SO, or by yourself. And, other than everything, my favorite part of having a boyfriend is having someone to go on movie dates with! Johnny and I have fairly different tastes in movies. While we both never say no to a comedy or horror picture, he is a history buff and loves war movies while I am a huge fan of thrillers and foreign films.

This contrast works out nicely because it exposes us both to movies we might not have watched before. I have seen more than my fair share of war movies now, which was normally not my cup of tea. However, I find myself enjoying them despite the intense anxiety I feel throughout each one!

This past week, we went on a date to see 1917 thanks to a Fandango gift card from my brother and it was just fantastic. So, without giving any spoilers away, let’s discuss:

^^^ And, as always, I have no rights to this video.

1917 tells the tale of two British Lance Corporals, Schofield and Blake, who must cross into enemy territory to deliver an urgent message during World War I. This message would call off an attack that would ultimately put the British soldiers into a trap by the Germans. If successful, the two corporals on a race against time could save up to 1,600 of their troops – including Blake’s brother.

From beginning to end, 1917 created a sense of tension that could be cut with a knife. It was filmed as one continuous shot, which really made you feel like you were on this quest with the soldiers. And, because it was one continuous shot, having a less tense “break” during the film was impossible. There was constant movement as the men pushed forward into enemy lines, which left me holding my breath for booby traps the entire time.

I liked how the plot of 1917 was simple. It was a journey set to the pace of a race and it made me so committed to the main characters because all I wanted was for them to make it safely. Running at just under two hours, I was exhausted by the end of the film from all of the emotional blows. Surprise attacks, devastating losses, and the potential for saving so many lives kept me on the edge of my seat bracing myself for the next metaphorical punch in the gut.

Not only was the film shot brilliantly (It almost made me feel like I was in a first person shooter game.), but the actors were sublime. I never once stopped rooting for Schofield and Blake and surprise cameos by Colin Firth and Benedict Cumberbatch made the viewing even more exciting by putting familiar faces into the mix. No part was unimportant which made each scene powerful, especially when it showcased the brotherhood amongst the soldiers.

I would highly recommend 1917 and easily grant it the coveted ten out of ten stars. Because this film was more of a journey than intense battle sequences the whole time, it is sure to be a hit – even with those who don’t care for war movies. I absolutely loved it and the Golden Globe for Best Picture and Best Director don’t lie!

What were your thoughts on 1917? What is your favorite war movie? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Featured Image By: IMDB

Revlon ColorBurst Matte Balm In Striking Spectaculaire Swatch

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Revlon ColorBurst Matte Balm In Striking Spectaculaire Swatch

Hello everyone and welcome to a swatch of the Revlon ColorBurst Matte Balm in Striking Spectaculaire! I have actually used this product before and wasn’t too thrilled with it so I gave it to my sister. And, she definitely gave me back the exact same one in her hand me down haul to me! Don’t get me wrong, I love a balm style lip product just as much as the next gal. The Clinique Chubby Sticks, for example, speaks to me. But this one… Ehh, not so much. Take a look and let’s discuss:

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I used to use this lippie by Revlon as a quick fix for when I didn’t feel like applying a full red lip and it would always leave me wishing that I had applied a full red lip! When I think of matte lipstick, which is what I prefer, I think of a budge free finish to keep me worry free about the lippie ending up somewhere on my forehead halfway through the day.

I actually think this paranoia stemmed from the ColorBurst Matte Balm, because I vividly remember having it smear throughout my shift at work. Despite having a matte formula, this product felt and moved like a gloss once it was on my lips. The color also didn’t spread evenly and I can recall deeper lines on my lips having intense color while the more smooth areas had a very faint hue. Not a good look!

It really is too bad because the Striking Spectaculaire color isn’t awful, by any means. I actually quite like the dull but bright red. However, severe flaws in the formula left for a product that was not going to last you through lunch or merely even drinking from your coffee mug. Lil Red will just not stand for this and you shouldn’t, either! Unless you’re into reapplying your lippie constantly, that is. 😉

What is your favorite tinted balm? How do you add color to your lips? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah