bareMinerals barePRO foundation | First Impression

I'm baaaaaack! I hate myself for letting nearly nine months go by without writing anything for you guys. I've gone through a lot of changes during those months and lost my passion for makeup along the way. BUT I'm finally back in a great place and have fallen in love with makeup and beauty all over again.

I figured what better way to get back to it than with a first impression/mini review of the hottest foundation launch of the summer - barePro! I've never been a huge bareMinerals user, but I've worked with their products a lot since it's a line I offer my clients. They finally discontinued the Ready Foundation (hallelujah! - I can't begin to describe my distain for that cakey mess of a formula) and replaced it with barePro.

barePRO Performance Wear Powder Foundation

The new foundation is supposed to give you the ultimate coverage with a 12-hour wear while still letting your skin breathe. They released 30 new shades, which is 10 more than the original line offers. One thing I noticed off that bat is that matching is a bit trickier than I thought it'd be; meaning, I'm a Fairly Light in the original line, which is 3rd lightest. In the new line, though, I'm the shade Warm Natural - the 7th lightest. That tells me they extended the line to match people with lighter skin tones, but I would have loved to see more shades in the deeper colors.

Check out more details on Ulta's website.

One of the biggest shockers is that the first ingredient listed in the new formula is talc, which has always been a selling point of bare's other foundations - that they were talc-free. (I can only imagine is thanks to Sheseido, the parent company that bought out Bare Escentuals in 2012.) Talc doesn't bother me and won't stop me from using the product, but many people are sensitive to the filler and can often experience clogged pores. I also think it's strange the new formula is advertised to be "formulated with 90% vitamins and minerals." That begs the question: What's the other 10%?

The Core Coverage Brush is designed with synthetic hairs at the core to pack on the coverage and natural hairs surrounding it to blend the foundation seamlessly.

My Thoughts

While I do think the coverage is beautiful, I'd say it's more medium than full. In order to build it to a full coverage, I'm thinking I'll need to layer it over a lightweight liquid, like bare's Complexion Rescue or another BB cream. The finish is very natural and not overly powdery. I did pair it with bare's Mattifying Prep Gel to keep it from settling in any fine lines. I've had the foundation on for about 6 hours - so far, so good! And I'm not even oily. Bonus points.

Jury's still out on the Core Coverage Brush. I'll need to use it a few more times before I come to a firm opinion, but I wasn't super impressed with it at first. I think I actually prefer their Precision Face Brush, because it's got a larger radius and can apply more at a time. I'm also wondering if I can get a little more coverage with that brush.

I did notice while taking pictures for this post it that it does flash back (white cast), which I can only assume is the titanium dioxide. It's not horrible, but it was definitely noticeable. Keep that in mind if you're wanting to wear this to any special occasions where there will be flash photography.

So far, I'm really loving this foundation (it's 100 times better than their Ready foundation!) and the natural finish that it gives. I will keep you guys updated the more I use it if I change my mind, but my first impression is that I'm thoroughly... well, impressed!

Check out my instagram @makeupbyaundi to see the full list of products used for this look.

FTC: Not sponsored, y'all.

Rocksbox | MakeupByAundi

Hello, lovely!

I wanted to share with you guys a fabulous new monthly subscription box, Rocksbox.

Rocksbox gives you unlimited access to rent from an ever-rotating closet of designer jewelry. You have the opportunity to borrow, buy, or swap whenever you like! First, you sign up to be a Shine Insider and complete a short style survey. You receive three pieces of jewelry that were hand-picked for you based on your style preferences. You can return your box at anytime to receive three new pieces! You can also earn credit (Shine Spend) to use toward purchasing pieces that you absolutely love.

You can also login to your account and rate the pieces you received as well as leave any feedback about the jewelry. That way, Rocksbox can customize your next box even more perfectly!

Each box includes an estimated $200 worth of designer jewelry that you receive for only $19 a month!

You can try a FREE month of Rocksbox by entering the code 'makeupbyaundixoxo' at checkout. 

Find out more at www.rocksbox.com!

House of Harlow 1960

I received my first set a couple weeks ago, and I've been wearing these three pieces nonstop. I think they pieced together a beautiful collection that represents my style so well. I love that there is a perfect balance of edginess and femininity. 

Slate

My favorite piece of the bunch is hands down this infinity gold ring. I've worn it both on my ring finger and as a midi ring on my middle ringer. I've gotten so many compliments on it, which is probably why I've rarely taken it off my finger. I even had to get a new manicure to pair with the ring. (I know it's a bit much, but you feel me.)

Wanderlust + Co

Each box is customized with you in mind, and the personal touches are what makes Rocksbox my all-time favorite subscription box. 

I'm thinking I should bring back Fashion Friday for my next box... What do you think?

If you haven't tried it, you are missing out! Sign up here and receive your first month FREE with the code 'makeupbyaundixoxo'!

FTC: This is not a sponsored post.

Urban Decay Must Haves

I have been a huge Urban fan for years, so I thought I would put together a list of my personal faves from the line!

*If you love also love Urban (or share the same affinity for cosmetics that I do) and you live in the Atlanta area, I have the opportunity to work with Urban Decay in hosting a huge event in Kennesaw on June 13th! If you are interested in attending and working with National Urban Decay Makeup Artists, message me for details! 

 All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray

All Nighter is the OG setting spray. I have tried more setting sprays than I can count, but none hold a candle to All Nighter! This guy is always in my kit and used on every client. I also keep a travel size in my on-the-go makeup bag so that it's always on hand. Urban also makes setting sprays based on skin type - Deslick for you oily gals and Chill for you dry gals like me. I love those as well, but All Nighter is hands down my fave. 

Eyeshadow Primer Potion in Enigma

This new, limited-edition of Urban's primer potion is absolutely a must have! This primer has the same formula as the cult-classic original primer potion, but has the perfect pigment that color corrects and primes the eye. The color reminds me of MAC's Painterly, which you guys know I'm obsessed with. Not only is it an awesome product, all proceeds of Enigma go to the Ultraviolet Edge, a women's empowerment initiative. How awesome is that?!

Subversion Primer & Perversion Mascara

I feel like this must have goes without saying, but if you're new to my blog you are probably unaware of my obsession with Subversion + Perversion. (Check out a before and after here!) I love each of these on their own (meaning the primer paired with any mascara - not on it's own. Just to clarify.) but there is something so magical about the two of these together. I get so many compliments when I wear this mascara that it makes me never want to purchase another mascara again! The only complaint I can find about it is that I wish it came in waterproof. If it did, I would use it on all my brides!

Naked Palette

I clearly can't have a UD must haves list without mentioning the ever-popular Naked Palette! This palette truly revolutionized the cosmetic industry. It (along with the Naked 2 & 3) are still the most popular shadow palettes around. While all three palettes are beautiful, the original has always been my favorite. I think the warm tones look so flattering on everyone. It's super versatile, giving the options of both natural and dramatic looks. I also love that it contains different finishes, including matte, satin, and shimmer. If you prefer matte shades, you can't go wrong with the Naked Basics palettes, 1 or 2. 

24/7 Velvet Liner in Black Velvet

This eyeliner is hands down my favorite pencil liner. It is intensely black, super creamy, and is literally the only black pencil liner I own that does not smudge on me. If you have the same issue with liners, give this one a try. I am sure you'll love it as much as I do!

Revolution High-Color Lipgloss in Bittersweet

The Revolution Lipglosses are part of Urban's newest launch, and this guy is the newest addition to my Urban collection. This gloss is beautiful on its own or layered over another lippy. It's slightly on the sticky side, but it's not unbearable and actually helps the gloss to wear longer. It also has a staining quality that is great for those days when you don't have time to touch up! I love this gloss and can't wait to add more colors to my collection!

I've got my eye on these beauties...

... brand new Afterglow blushes!

Come see me at the event on June 13th so we can try the new blushes together! I would love to see you there!

Until then, what are your Urban Decay must haves?!

whim. Nail Lacquer | Review

If you follow me on any social media networks, you probably know that I've recently been on a huge nail kick. I love doing my own nails at home -  I can't even tell you the last time I got my nails done at a salon. I am partial to Essie nail polishes, which is typically the only brand I use (although I do throw in an OPI color on occasion, which usually ends up in chip city after a couple days!). 

I decided a couple months back to start experimenting with different brands of polish to see what truly gives the best result in terms of color payoff, quality, staying power and durability. I scored some Deborah Lippman polishes for crazy cheap, which normally run $18-20, and I must say that I wasn't overly impressed. They were okay, but if I'm going to pay $20 a pop it better be magic in a bottle. I also tried the Sally Hansen Gel Polish, which was again, just okay. For some reason I have a hard time forking over $10 for a bottle of Sally Hansen. Is that just me? 

As if the nail polish gods somehow knew my journey, Ulta released a brand new line of gel-like polish. Perfect timing!

Whim polish is an Ulta exclusive that is a "high-shine, gel-like lacquer whose unique patented three step system goes on like a polish but wears like a gel for long lasting color and superior shine." The line is also 5 free, meaning free of DPB, toluene, formaldehyde, camphor, and formaldehyde resin. The line includes 58 colors, so there is a shade for everyone!

I first purchased the shade 'Sheer Nightie' along with the base and top coat. I never use base coats because I've never found one that actually made a huge difference, but I wanted to give this one a chance. I applied all three with two coats of the color. The consistency is a bit thicker and slightly more difficult to work with than other polishes. The first time I used it, it was a mess. The best way I can describe the texture is gummy. With all the layers, it was extremely thick and actually started peeling off within two days. I was incredibly disappointed. I decided to remove the polish on night two and the base coat had dried my nails out. Ugh. 

I didn't want to give up on the polish just yet, so I actually reapplied that night - this time without the base coat. I could already tell a difference. I received numerous compliments on my nails while wearing the polish; two people even asked where I got them done! The top coat maintained its shine the entire time I wore it. I was very pleased with the finish, considering so many top coats start to look dull after a couple days. I wore the polish for nine days before I got my first chip! NINE DAYS! 

I returned the base coat to Ulta and purchased two more shades from the line. I hope the two new colors wear as well as the first one did. I just applied the purple shade and will be keeping you guys updated on Instagram with pictures on how it wears and when it starts chipping, so make sure you are following me! 

Overall, I am beyond impressed with this nail polish. I am trying to refrain myself from purchasing all 58 colors! Don't forget to find me on Instagram @makeupbyaundi to see if the new shade lasts as long as the first one did!

Best of Beauty | 2014 Favorites

I realize I'm a little late to the Best Of 2014 game, but better late than never... right? I plan on making this post short and sweet (I make no promises, though) because I've been rambling on about most of these products for a year now. 

Some bloggers use different parameters for their Best Of products, but I wanted to keep mine simple. I'm sharing with you the products that were consistently part of my makeup routine throughout the year of 2014. Some are fairly new items and others I've been using for years. I try a lot, I mean a lot of makeup so when I constantly come back to something, I know it's a stand out product.

So without further ado, here are my favorites from 2014! 

Jordana Best Lash Extreme Volumizing Mascara

This was my everyday go-to for the first half of 2014. As I was looking back on my most used products, I was reminded of how amazing this mascara is and that I need to pick up a new tube. I dedicated an entire video to this drugstore fave, so I won't ramble on about it, but it's an outstanding mascara and happens to be $3. 

It's the best mascara EVER.

Nars Laguna Bronzer

I went through nearly an entire pan of Laguna last year. I rarely hit pan on a makeup product, so it's a big deal when I do. I used this bronzer nearly everyday, whether to give a slight contour or warm up my complexion. I definitely see myself repurchasing when I run out in the next couple months. 

More on this bronzer here.



MAC Cosmetics Lipstick in Creme Cup




You guys know that pinky-nudes are my favorite and last year was no exception. I used Creme Cup like it was going out of style! I told someone recently on Instagram that I could wear this lipstick everyday and never tire of it. Ever.



MAC Mineralize Moisture SPF 15 Foundation 

 

This was my holy grail foundation for the last half of 2014. It gives great coverage with a gorgeous glowy finish. I'm wearing it still and am curious to see how it wears during the warmer months.

Read more on this dewy magic in a bottle.



Benefit They're Real Mascara




This was my go-to mascara during the warmer months. Although it's not marketed as a waterproof mascara, it pretty much is. The formula and rubber wand gives me the most beautifully clean, separated lashes. It's amazing for lengthening my lashes. It's still in my rotation of mascaras along with my next favorite.



Anastasia Brow Wiz


Anastasia of Beverly Hills is the queen of brow products. Her Brow Wiz is without a doubt my favorite brow product of all time. It's got a super fine tip so it's easy to mimic the look of natural hairs. I literally use this every single day. 

 

 NYX Butter Glosses


These glosses made my Top 5 for $5 last year, and they're so great they made my Best of Beauty! The fact that they're only $5 is a bonus. The smooth formula glides right over any lipstick but is pigmented enough to be worn on its own. My two favorites for the year were Creme Brulee and Eclair.

Check out my Top 5 for $5 action here.



Laura Geller Spackle Hydrating Primer


My favorite primer of life and the only primer that I've ever sworn by. I love that it doesn't have that thick, silicone feeling that most do. The hydrating formula is perfect for my dry skin. The last time I posted about this primer, it was available only on QVC but this week it launched at Ulta!

More thoughts on this spackley goodness.



MAC Painterly Paintpot


I went on a search for a new favorite eyeshadow base this year but it was a complete fail. I'm still on the lookout but starting to think I'll never find anything better than my beloved Painterly. I realize this base may not be for everyone, but if you have oily eyelids like me, Painterly is your new best friend!

Painterly - my ride or die.



Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser



If you've followed my blog for any period of time, you're probably sick of me raving about this drugstore gem. I would be remiss if I posted my Best of Beauty and didn't mention this guy. He never lets me down! I've gone through more tubes than I can count.

I can't live without it! ;)



Stila Eyeshadow in Kitten


I used Kitten all the time throughout 2014. On its own, over another shadow, or in the inner corner.... you just can't go wrong with Kitten. I not only love it on myself, but I often use it on the brides I work on to give the most beautiful glow. 

Meow.



Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray


I featured this guy in my Beat the Heat video, but he is a must for any special occasion in any season. I go back and forth between the All Nighter and Chill setting sprays, but the all nighter will lock in your makeup so it lasts, well... all night.



Pur Minerals 4-in-1 Powder Foundation


2014 was the year of powder foundations for me. My world is forever changed. This foundation is so beautiful. I can wear it on its own or over top a hydrating liquid foundation. I have used it nonstop since September. I've already hit pan but it's still going strong.

Read more about Pur and my other recent faves!

Urban Decay Perversion Mascara

Holy moly. I have been highly impressed with UD's Perversion and Subversion Primer. This wand is very different for me but it helps to give length, volume, and lots of drama. I've actually had multiple people ask if I'm wearing falsies when wearing this mascara. Don't believe me? 

Watch it in action here!

Are there any amazing products I missed out on last year? Let me know if there's something I need to try!

Talk to you soon!

My Current Skincare Favorites

Before I get into my skincare routine, I want you to know that I feel oddly vulnerable typing a post about skin. For most of my life, I was uncomfortable in my own skin. I don't mean that in the cliche way that I was in some way or another unhappy with myself, I mean that I was literally uncomfortable with my skin. I have a skin condition that I recently learned is Keratosis Pilaris, commonly referred to as chicken skin (lovely, right?). KP is a result of the body's over production of the protein keratin, which forms deposits in the hair follicles causing noticeable bumps on the skin. As a child I didn't know I had a condition but I did know that my skin didn't look or feel like that of my friends. Kids are cruel and I spend a good portion of my life trying to cover my skin as much as possible (I didn't even begin wearing shorts above my knees until I was in college.) I've recently begun studying up on KP and trying various ways to treat it... I plan on sharing a detailed post more about the condition and what works for me. 

All of that to say, the fact that I've received numerous comments in recent months about my "porcelain" or "glowing" skin is completely out of the ordinary and a testament to the products I'm sharing with you today. (Please keep in mind that everyone's skin is different. My needs are different than yours and just because a product works for me doesn't mean it's the perfect product for you.)

I wrote a post a few months back on Skincare 101 - check it out for basic tips that everyone should be doing.

 
My Skincare Routine 

Those who know me well know that I'm not the most, um, disciplined person so when I say skincare routine - I use word 'routine' very lightly. I don't necessarily have set days when I use certain products. I usually let my skin tell me what it needs. I'm going to share with you all the skincare products I've been using regularly the past three to four months that I've actually seen results from.

Purity Facial Cleanser by Philosphy  | $23 at Ulta

 

I shared this product in my Recent Favorites and in case you've been wondering, it's still a favorite. It's a gentle cleanser that I typically use in the mornings when I don't have to remove loads of makeup but just want to awaken my skin. It also doubles as a great makeup brush cleaner. Check out that post for more details on this awesome cleanser!

Bliss Fabulous Foaming Face Wash | $24 at Ulta

 

This is a double duty product as it not only cleanses but contains teency weency beads that allow it to exfoliate the skin as well. This face wash cleanses more aggressively than Purity, so I love to use it at night when I'm removing makeup. The soothing botanicals allow it to calm the skin even though it's an exfoliant. I flipping love this stuff and the deeply cleansed feeling it leaves after every wash. It also smells so, sooo good.

Exuviance Triple Microdermabrasion Face Polish | $72 at Ulta 

 

This is an intensive exfoliating treatment that contains professional grade crystals used to loosen dead skin cells and polish skin. This is by far the best exfoliant I've ever used. I know it's pricey, but it's well worth the cost in my opinion. I only use it once or twice a week and my skin is left feeling so soft and smooth every time I put it to use. 

Algenist Complete Eye Renewal Balm | $65 at Ulta

Algenist products contain Alguronic Acid which is produced by microalgea and minimizes the appearance of wrinkles, firms skin, and promotes radiance. While I don't have major signs of aging around the eye area (yet), I'm trying to prevent that from happening with this Algenist eye cream. I must say that this product feels so luxurious and nourishing to the eye area. I use it morning and night and I love how easy my concealer glides on over top.

Pur Minerals Get A Lift Firming Facial Cream | $39 at Ulta

You probably know I've been on a Pur Minerals kick as of late and this has been my go-to moisturizer for the past few months. Again, while I may not (yet) need a firming moisturizer, it's never too early to start preventing, right? The way this cream is formulated, your skin actually does feel more firm as you massage it on. I love that it leaves my skin feeling moisturized (without feeling greasy) throughout the day and night. It's so smooth that my foundation glides right on and I often skip the priming step altogether. And the packaging is just fun to look at, am I right?

*Aloette Restorative Enzyme Peel | $40.95 at Aloette

This peel might be one of the best kept secrets in skincare. If you aren't familiar with Aloette, it is a sister brand to Pur Minerals which is a brand I've raved about recently. I'll admit that I was skeptical about the peel before trying it, but I've been using it periodically for the past three months, and it's amazing! It starts as a green jelly consistency but after massaging it onto the face, the gel actually liquifies. As you continue to massage, you will literally see and feel the dead skin coming off of your face! It's fascinating. I love that it doesn't contain harsh chemicals and it leaves my skin feeling completely renewed. If you are in the market for a new peel, you should definitely give this one a try!

*Use the coupon code UQNU64PR to get 20% off your Aloette order!

Pur Minerals Dirty Girl Mud Mask | $29 at Ulta

This is hands down the best mask I've ever used. This detox mask that contains pascalite clay, which has been used since the 1930's for healing benefits like drawing poison out of the skin from snake or bug bites. I've tried several mud masks that harden on the skin and some have even felt tingly, but none have measured up to Dirty Girl. This mask gets so tight that my face actually looks contorted. It pulls all the impurities out of my skin so I'm sure to follow up with lots of hydrating products to put all the good nutrients back into my skin. This mask is intense, but it leaves my skin feeling smooth and rejuvenated. I always look forward to the next use.

Clarisonic Mia | $99 at Ulta



 I can't write about my skincare routine without mentioning my Clarisonic. I've had mine for a couple of years now but only used it regularly for the past few months. Although I don't use it daily like some, I've seen great results from this sonic face brush. I use it with whatever cleanser I have on hand and massage my face with the brush until the automatic timer stops. It gives a much deeper cleanse than what I can get with my hands or a cloth. I know it has a steep price tag, but it's been a great investment. I've had it for over two years and it's still going strong. I highly recommend giving it a try - especially if you've never used a face brush before!

If you want to see my latest foundation routine that goes perfectly with my new glowing skin, check it out here!

*FTC Disclaimer: The peel was sent to me for review. This is not a sponsored post.