Not Your Mama’s Mary Kay!

For our 4th and final installment of the September Beauty Series, the lovely Kalyn Foggy wrote a guest blog about how to achieve a “flawless base“.  She also sent me some Mary Kay items to review for my readers.

I will admit I was hesitant to include Mary Kay in my blog at first because of some very unpleasant encounters with pushy sales consultants in the past.  It just left a bad taste in my mouth and I thought this was a company I didn’t want to support in any fashion after those experiences. 

However, I have interacted with Kalyn almost daily for the better part of 2 years and knew she wasn’t like those other consultants. I’ve never known her to be pushy with her brand or use dishonesty to make a sale.  I trust Kalyn and really knew that she wouldn’t recommend something to me that she didn’t honestly believe in and that she would respect and appreciate any feedback I gave if I ended up not liking something. 

Kalyn sent me the Clearproof Deep Cleansing Charcoal Mask ($24) to try which is said to be suitable for all skin tones and types. 

Mary Kay makes these claims about this mask:

Kalyn also included the Liquid Foundation Brush ($10) with a note that said it was to be used with the mask! The brush was soft and smooth. I really loved the way it felt and it makes me curious to try more of their brushes to see if they are on par with this. Several years ago I had some Mary Kay brushes that were pretty scratchy but this was so lovely! Have you tried their brushes lately? What do you think of them?

I applied the charcoal grey mask, which was very creamy and reminded me of the consistency tempera paint with the brush and immediately loved the way it felt. It had a faint minty, herbal scent. Normally, I’d just apply a mask with my fingers but this not only made the application neater, it also made it feel like a spa treatment. If you decide to get the mask, obviously the brush isn’t neccessary, but I’d recommend it! 

The mask had a gentle cooling sensation, which I enjoyed. I like to feel something happening when I use a mask so I enjoyed it. It was a very mild sensation and not painful or irritating at all. 

I let the mask dry to matte lighter shade of grey and rinsed off with warm water. It rinsed off easily without staining my face, hands or sink. My skin was left feeling quite comfortable even before moisturizer which surprised me since it’s an oil absorbing mask. I was pleased to find that my skin wasn’t red, because some “tingling” products can do that. Instead my skin appeared glowing and more even. My giant pores even appeared smaller! 

I really enjoyed this mask all around and will continue to use it. I’m anxious to see how my skin improves as I use it over time. 

The item I was most excited to try was the Timewise Matte-Wear Liquid Foundation ($22). 

Mary Kay describes this foundation by stating:

Kalyn did a wonderful job color matching me! All I had to do was send her a makeup free selfie taken in natural light. She matched me to the shade “Beige 5”.              Mary Kay offers this foundation in 23 shades so it seems like there is a good possibility most skin tones will have a good match in this line! 

I intially noticed that the packaging was not my favorite. This foundation is a true liquid and the plastic squeeze tube didn’t seem like an ideal way to package it.  I feel as though a foundation with this consistency would do better in a tube with a pump. The only reason being, that if you need to set the tube down mid makeup application it kind of seeps out the top unless it’s capped back up. It has the potential to be messy or cause you to lose product. I think a thicker liquid or cream in this tube would work…but for the thinner liquid consistency I think they chose the wrong delivery system. I was just careful not to set it down without the cap to avoid spillage. 

I applied this using a damp beauty sponge and it went on very evenly and was so easy to blend. It had great medium to full coverage and built up to a very full coverage easily. As I blended it, it melted into my skin but also dried down to a velvety matte finish. I have normal to oily skin and found no need to even use a powder with this, which I loved! The less layers I need to apply the better!

The foundation blurred my pores and covered my blemishes well.  The color not only stayed true throughout the day but I felt as though the foundation actually began to look better as the day went on. I enjoyed the way it looked several hours later even more than upon initial application!

This is definitely a foundation I will reach for often. Especially on my oily days as not a drop of oil peeped through all day…even without powder! Color me impressed! 

To top off my look, I used the Gel Semi-Matte Lipstick ($18)  in the shade “Rich Truffle”.

Mary Kay says that this lipstick will deliver:

I felt it went on smoothly.  I think semi-matte is an accurate description of the finish. One layer definitely gave me a matte look without being the least bit drying or flakey. I was able to build it up a bit and it became a little more like a soft satin finish. I went for a couple of hours of true color and it stayed vibrant even through drinking some coffee. It is not transfer proof but does wear down evenly without getting patchy. It did not survive through my meal but when it wore off it did leave my lips very soft and comfortable so I didn’t dread reapplying it like I do with some matte lipsticks. I enjoyed the fact that it didn’t have an unpleasant taste or smell.  I thought the packaging looked really nice and felt nice in my hand. 

I’m very glad I decided to give Mary Kay another chance.  I was overall extremely pleased and pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed these items!

 I’m baffled that there isn’t more hype surrounding the fabulous foundation! I never knew I was missing out on the perfect matte foundation until Kalyn sent this to me and I really wish I’d known sooner! Make sure you share this blog post so people know! 
 

Achieving a Flawless Base by Guest Blogger Kalyn Foggy

I think achieving a flawless base is at the heart of every good look. Even with dramatic eyes or bold lips, with so much attention being drawn to the face, a flawless base is a must.

Luckily for you, I’ve spent like, 14 years of my life fumbling through makeup and techniques and have developed the perfect formula to achieve a flawless base.

Good Skincare Routine

You may or may not know that a good skincare routine is where good makeup application starts.

Imagine your skin as your canvas and makeup as paint. A smooth and taut canvas looks much better painted than a bumpy, crinkled one, right?

Skin that has been cleansed, exfoliated, and moisturized is much more prepared to receive foundation. And a good mask, such as the Mary Kay Deep Cleansing Charcoal Mask, gives you added benefits as well.

Luxury Foundation

The next step in achieving a flawless base is selecting a foundation that works well with your skin type and matches your undertone.

I exclusively use the Mary Kay TimeWise matte wear foundation. This is hands down the best foundation I’ve ever used. I used to be a foundation hoarder – owning 6-8 foundations at any time – until this baby entered my life.

I love that it’s formulated with skincare ingredients, so it’s actually improving my skin as I wear it. I remember when I first started using it and how soft my face felt after I would remove it.

And since it comes in two different formulas – one for oily/combo skin and one for dry skin – and a gazillion shades, there’s something for everyone. #win

Blend, Blend, Blend

Application is the last and final step to achieving a flawless base. The trick is to blend the foundation right into your skin.

Personally, I love to use a damp makeup sponge to blend in my foundation. It’s great for all skin types! If you have dry skin, a damp sponge helps to put more moisture into your skin. On the other hand, if you have oily skin, it helps to absorb any excess foundation or concealer, avoiding cakiness and heaviness.

Once you think you’ve blended it in enough, spend another minute or so blending it. Seriously, it will make a difference.

Following all of these steps will ensure you have a flawless base. I love seeing my skin transform from good to great in the mirror every morning!

In conclusion, I’d like to thank Alanna for this opportunity to collaborate with her! I love creating beauty content and helping my fellow women.

Do you have any tips and tricks on how you achieve your flawless base?

What’s your current favorite foundation?

Hometown Happenings: 3rd Annual Brunswick Pumpkin 5k Run / 1 mile walk

I’d like to bring a little something to the blog for my local readers! Let’s talk about the things happening in and around Cleveland! 

Today, my focus is on the city where I currently reside. Brunswick, Ohio! 

Recently, while on a run at Brunswick’s South Lake, I bumped into a lovely woman who put me in touch with Councilman Alex Johnson. Alex is her husband and this will be the 3rd year that they together will host the Brunswick Pumpkin Run! The race is set for 11 am on October 7th. 
I was eager to sit down with Alex and find out more about this 5k happening at my favorite place to run in Brunswick! 

Brunswick’s South Lake in Brunswick, Ohio

Like me, Alex Johnson discovered running as a way to lose weight.  Like me, he knows that we all start somewhere…and sometimes that somewhere is running slowly…or even just walking. He wants this event to appeal to everyone! So if you are a more seasoned runner hoping for a PR, this is a race for you!  If you are a newer runner looking to attempt to finish your first 5k, this race is for you! If you prefer to walk, this race is for you! If you wouldn’t think of running at all unless zombies were chasing you….well…keep reading! 

Brunswick Councilman, Alex Johnson

While the zombies are not meant to scare you, there will be zombies along the course to assist runners and keep everyone heading in the right direction! A big “thank you” to Girl Scout Troop #90502 for volunteering to organize and perform this fun and important role! 

Along the course there will be many other Halloween ghouls and goblins to admire on your run or even stop to take some selfies with! 

Just a few of the monsters you’ll meet along the course at the Brunswick 5k Pumpkin Run!

Halloween is Alex’s favorite holiday and he knows how to do it right! Beyond the fully decorated course, there will also be many other family friendly attractions like face painting by Vita Bella Salon and Spa, balloons, a pumpkin patch reminiscent of “Its the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown!” including free pumpkins for the kids, costume contests, spooky music and leading the race will be Ghostbusters: Cleveland and their Ectomobile to act as a “pace car”! 

Ectomobile

Need more of a scare? Enter the tent to see The Monster if you dare! John Merk in association with Xtreme Creators are bringing a beastly attraction that is not for the faint of heart! It stands over 13 feet tall and comes “alive” as it grunts, groans, and growls its way into your nightmares!

Are you team #WillRunForSwag like I am? No worries here! The Brunswick Pumpkin Run is hooking it up!!!! From tshirts, to finisher medals, and tombstone trophies for the top overall men and women as well as the top finisher in each age group, plus generous giveaways…they have got us covered! Hurry and sign up, like, yesterday in order to guarantee a tshirt. Time is running down quickly! There will also be free samples of Do Terra Deep Blue to soothe all the post run aches and pains away! 

Finisher Medals for the 3rd annual Brunswick Pumpkin Run

Once you finish the run (or walk) what are you going to do? Head home? Nope! Head over to Panini’s Bar and Grill for the after party from 11:30am to 2pm! 

This sounds like a lot of fun, right? Who doesn’t like having fun?!? You should probably go sign up now. 

What’s that, you say?  Oh, you don’t like having fun? Ok, well first off, lighten up, weirdo. Life is too short and you need to enjoy it! Secondly, even if “fun” isn’t for you then surely helping others will be enough to persuade you to sign up! 

The race and after party benefit The Brunswick Food Pantry. I asked Alex how many families in Brunswick benefit from this resource and was surprised to find out that the pantry extends far beyond just our town to help several communities including Brunswick, Brunswick Hills, Hinkley and Valley City!  Alex really wanted a way to give back to this community and couldn’t think of a better way than to support so many of our friends and neighbors. Whether you realize it or not, someone important to you has likely utilized this resource at one time or another. To date, the Brunswick Pumpkin Run has raised over $2400.00 for the Brunswick Food Pantry and Alex really hopes to keep that amount growing. We hope you’ll help support his efforts! 

Alex has really put his heart and soul into this event.  He begins planning in January and works tirelessly to make the event fun and meaningful. Of course, he couldn’t do it without his sponsors! Please consider doing business with these sponsors that have generously supported the Brunswick Pumpkin Run!             

• Georgio’s Oven Fresh Pizza Co.
• State Farm- John McGee, Brunswick Agent
• Quest Real Estate- Alex Johnson (440)-724-5116
• Rainforest Car Wash
• NEO Mosquito Control 
• Cuyahoga County Community College- Brunswick University Center
• Cleveland Clinic
• Brunswick True Value
• Brunswick Panini’s
• Scene 75
• Motorcars Acura/Volvo
• Pearlview Wellness & Rehab
• 6th City Photography-Brent Durken

I’m hoping to finish with a PR at this event since I’m so familiar with the course, but even if I don’t hit that goal I’m really excited to run with people from my community!  Please come out and give me some support or some friendly competition! When you arrive, make sure you thank Alex Johnson for all of the hard work he has put in to make this an event that everyone in town is sure to enjoy…and tell him that Muscles, Miles and Mascara sent you! 

Maskcara Beauty: An eye opening experience in highlight and contour!

It’s week three of our September Beauty Series, and this week we are exploring Maskcara Beauty! Maskcara Beauty is a newer direct sales company founded by blogger Cara Brooks and their consultants are referred to as “artists”. Tegan Kesler is a Maskcara Beauty Artist who earlier this week wrote us a fabulous guest blog explaining how she gets her perfect highlight and contour! Tegan sent me the Maskcara Beauty IIID Foundation HAC which translates in simple terms to a highlight and contour duo that works as a foundation that gives your face 3D depth instead of the “flat” look you get with traditional foundations. You can read more about the concept in Tegan’s guest blog post! It’s a super innovative new way of applying foundation that I had to experience for myself. 

The packaging is stunning to say the least and what Tegan said was the cherry on top to why she joined this company. The tins are all unique and display beautiful imagery. 

I also recieved a magnetic compact to put the tins in which was very asthetically pleasing, wonderfully handy, with a great quality mirror and a very helpful diagram explaining where to apply my highlight and contour. 

Even with the diagram and some tips from Tegan, I was very intimidated at first. I’d tried other cream contours before and had such a difficult time blending them out that they ended up in my “reject makeup” basket. I tend to prefer a powder contour. 

I told Tegan that when I first started playing with the IIID Foundation that I experienced about 50 thousand thoughts and emotions. I had moments of “What the heck have I gotten myself into, this is terrible!” to “OMG best product ever!” and everything in between. It’s a product that comes with a learning curve for sure but as I played with it I figured out how to make it work well for me. 

Some things to note, the highlight portion is very, very creamy and soft. A little goes such a long way! If you use too much initially you will have a hard time working with this beeswax based product. However, applied lightly it gives a nice light to medium coverage. It can be built up to fuller coverage but it was a little tricky for me to do that so I prefer it for lighter makeup days. The highlights are bright and warm toned and give your complexion a fresh and awake look. They are used to bring foward and brighten the areas of the face they are applied to. They work perfectly to brighten the undereye area and no separate concealer is even needed, in my opinion! I love that!

The contour shade is used to add definition and depth to your face. These shades are a bit “stiffer” and firm than the highlight shades. I assume because you really want your contour to kind of “stick” where you place it. It still blends out easily…but not too much to where you lose your contour. These are cooler toned to mimic a natural shadow. 

Together, they blend seamlessly to give your face definition with just one layer. The finish is quite dewy and glowy.  The feel on the skin is kind of odd to me, but not in a bad way. Just odd.  It’s not heavy at all. It’s very light feeling! However, it also has a strange way that it kind of sits on top of the skin rather than disappearing or melting into it. It feels smooth and almost a bit tacky when you touch it with your fingers, but not in such a way that it transfers or rubs off. Definitely a unique texture that might not be for everyone, but like I said, I didn’t mind it! My husband said my skin looked “more natural than usual” which I took as a compliment. He mentioned it several times how much he liked how it looked on me. 

After using these products numerous times since recieving it, I can say that I prefer to  wear it like this on days where I’m going for a “no makeup” makeup look v.s. using it for my “full glam” days. This is not a negative, because my quick natural days happen a lot more often than my all out makeup days. I will often want to throw on just a touch of makeup when I’m working or babysitting, or even when I’m going out for a run so that I look a little more put together but not “made up”.  This is perfect for those days because as I mentioned, it gives more definition to your face than traditional foundations. Before, if I just wanted a little coverage on my skin, I could get that with a light layer of foundation but then I’d still need to add a bit of contour, blush and highlight or my face would look flat. By the time I added the other steps I would have so many layers of makeup that I may as well have gone full glam. I’d end up looking like I was trying too hard. Because this works as multiple steps in one layer it is a very quick way to get an even more natural version of what used to take me a lot more time. 

For my more glam days, I felt the coverage was a bit too light and as I mentioned, it was a little difficult for me personally to build up, and it was almost too natural looking for my taste so I discovered that using a matte foundation all over on those days and then strategically using the HAC shades to brighten and define over that was a perfect compromise. I’d defintely recommend trying the products this way if for some reason they didn’t work for you in the way they were intended. 

I think if you have very oily skin you will need to experiment with different primers, powders and setting sprays but for other skin types it will work well. 

I think this is a product I will definitely want to purchase in the future when I run out and I am officially converted to cream contour fan after using Maskcara. At only $12 a tin it’s very comparable price wise to drug store foundations but with much higher quality.  The tins are small but you use so little that if used correctly they should last a very long time! I looooovvvvveeee that this direct sales company appeals to a budget conscious makeup enthusiast! If you want to try this product that I enjoyed so much, you can shop for it directly through Teagan’s shopping link or you can join her Facebook group and she can help color match you and answer any further questions you have about this innovative new foundation concept! 

It’s ok to be a little shady: shedding light on the contouring trend! By Guest Blogger Tegan Kesler

When you think about your face, do you think about the fact that it’s three dimensional? Traditional one color foundations have a tendency to cover that natural depth and give you a flat look. This is why having a foundation that highlights and contours your face is key!

Maskcara Beauty created a revolutionary IIID foundation that does just that! It’s your concealer, highlight and contour all in one! Highlighting and contouring brings out the best aspects of your face. It lifts your cheeks, brings out your bone structure, gives you a glowing complexion, highlights the things you love and minimizes the things you don’t.

 When I was first introduced to Maskcara Beauty, I was honestly a little intimidated by it being a cream based foundation wondering how it was going to work on my combination skin type. After a few applications and trying different approaches on applying it I finally nailed down a solid routine (more on that later) and I’ve never looked back.

My skin has never looked better since using using this product! My combination, oily/normal skin is also very sensitive and anytime I’ve changed foundations I would always have a breakout. I never once dealt with a break out with Maskcara . As a matter of fact, my skin actually started to clear up! Maskcara products are all natural beeswax based so there’s nothing yucky going onto your face. In return for not putting any harsh chemicals on my face, it not only started to clear up, I also started having that “healthy glow”. I was blown away, my skin had never looked better!

So what is Maskcara you ask? 

Its simple, Maskcara Beauty is here to redefine the routine by 3 things:

Simplify: Declutter and streamline your makeup collection. Buy only what you want, when you want it. All of our makeup comes in super cute, super affordable, individual tins. and with the purchase of 4 or more tins  you will receive a compact of your choice free of charge.  

Better Basics: You’re not one dimensional, and your makeup shouldn’t be either. Light your face! with the help of your personal Maskcara artist you will be personally color matched, assisted through the checkout process and also get a crash corse on what HAC-ing is and why its so important!

Save time: Spend more time doing what you love, and less time doing the in between things. I can not stress this enough how convenient  it is for me as a mom of two young children to to be able to do my makeup  and look alive, not sleep deprived, fresh and glowing in literally 5 minutes.

My preferred method of application is with the round end of Maskcara’s 30 second HAC brush for concealing and highlighting and the flat end of the detail HAC brush for contour. If you’re on a budget the Elf ultimate blending brush for highlight and the Real Techniques expert face brush for contour works great as well! let me start by saying a little goes along way! I use the highlight as an all over foundation because I have some redness, hyperpigmentation, acne scaring and uneven skin tone so I like to have more of a full coverage, I start first with a clean, moisturized and primed face and tap not drag my brush into my product and use a couple thin layers of product and build them up to my desired coverage, then I tap into my contour color and apply it in the hollows of my cheeks, along my jaw line, across the top of my forehead and onto my temples. I then go over it all with a damp beauty sponge to blend away any brush strokes and make it look seamless!  I follow all that by setting my face down with a powder, bronzer and powder blush. Lastly I set it all with a setting spray and I use the stay all day setting spray from Maskcara. 

In the “Limelight”

I am loving this September Beauty Series and I hope you’re enjoying it as well! For week 2 of the series I’d like to thank Jessica Gray for her guest blog contribution and for sending me some goodies from Limelight by Alcone to try and review honestly for my readers! 

Some of the items sent to me came directly from Jessica’s stock, but some of it came shipped directly from the company and can I just say… it was impressive.  Not only did it come to me quickly but the packaging was beautiful and really made it feel special. 

The items came shipped in sleek, nice quality box, all tied up with a chic black bow.

Inside the box, the items were neatly wrapped in tissue paper which was secured with an embossed metallic seal.

The items inside were equally impressive in their packaging. Modern black and white with a splash of watercolor is their signature.

The items I recieved first and began playing with right away were the 10 Years Younger Makeup Finish ($28) setting spray and the Waterproof Complete Concealer ($24). 

According to Limelight by Alcone the setting spray is said to:

“Reduce the signs of aging while holding your makeup in place! 10 Years Younger keeps makeup from setting into fine lines and wrinkles, prevents makeup from melting or sliding and guarantees fewer touchups. This ultra-fine mist is clinically-proven to prevent creasing concealer, fading foundation, and will keep colors vibrant for up to 16 hours. This product is paraben-free, cruelty-free, and was formulated for use on all skin types including highly sensitive skin.”

In regards to the Waterproof Complete Concealer, Limelight says:

“Made famous by world-renowned makeup artists, this camouflage concealer creme is considered the best professional cover up. It is long-lasting, waterproof, and opaque yet feels light on the skin. Artist use it to conceal but also to highlight and shade features. It can completely conceal tattoos, veins, dark under-eye circles, and skin discolorations.”

I went to work applying these to test their claims right away.

At first, I felt like I got a poor color match from Jessica (she matched me by having me send her a makeup free selfie taken in natural light). This concealer appeared to be a bit darker than what I’m used to and it worried me that it wouldn’t work for me to use as an eyeshadow primer, undereye concealer, and overall highlight like I’d normally use my concealers. I had read that some people use this concealer as an all over foundation so I tried it that way first since I thought the shade was better suited for that. Well, I was wrong…the color was way too light for me to use that way and unfortunately I didn’t care for the way the concealer used as a foundation looked on my skin. I have a lot of texture to my skin and it really amplified that. It might work well for someone with smaller pores and less acne scars, but it did not work for me.

Back to the drawing board! I applied my regular foundation routine and used the concealer as concealer and it was a whole new ball game! Turns out, you should trust your “Beauty Guide” (Limelight Consultants) because they know what they are doing with the color matching. It was a perfect shade for me to use as concealer, afterall! The cream formula took a little getting used to, as I normally use a thinner concealer. A little goes a long way which is great news if you are on a budget like I am, but figuring out how much to use and the best method to apply and blend was a bit of a learning curve for me. I feel in the end it was worth taking the time to play with and figure out!

I finished off my makeup with the 10 years younger setting spray and I loved how fine the mist was! No large drops of liquid, just the perfect even mist. It’s a little pricier than what I normally use, but it is a bigger bottle and with the mist being so fine and even I feel like it may go further in the long run.

I really loved how the concealer brightened my under eye area.

I put these supposed “long lasting” cosmetics to the test by not only wearing them throughout the day, but also during a 6 mile run and because I’m lazy for science over night! 

My makeup freshly applied, and the next day after a 6 mile run and a full night’s sleep.

 I was very pleased when I woke up the next day! My shadow was still pretty vibrant, my foundation stayed mostly in place, and my undereyes were still quite bright with little to no creasing. If I hadn’t had more makeup to review the next day I might have been able to get away with just a few touch ups to make it through another day of wear…for science, of course. I’d say if it can last through all I put it through, these will definitely work for anyone in normal conditions to keep their makeup fresh through a work day or night out! 

The day after I tried those items, I recieved a package from Jessica which contained Limelight’s Perfect Mascara ($20) and a single of the Perfect Eyeshadow ($12) in shade #19 “antiki bar”. 

 

I went right to work creating a look with these along with the other products! 

Once again, overall I was pleased. The mascara as claimed was clump free and went on easily. I was even able to build it up without clumping which I loved. I wouldn’t say the length it gave me was anything to write home about, meaning my lashes weren’t noticeably longer using this mascara than many others I’ve tried, but it did visually lengthen them from their usual state before mascara. It gave me the whispy seperated look I like in a mascara. If you enjoy a very volumizing mascara this may not be your top choice for your top lashes, however I think it’s probably the best mascara I’ve used for my bottom lashes in a long time so it may be worth considering just for that! 

The eyeshadow swatched nicely both with a brush and finger and it felt super creamy and appeared quite pigmented! I was excited to try it on my eyes. Unfortunately, using a dry brush on my eyes left much to be desired with this particular shade. I got very little color payoff on my lid. Shimmers can be stubborn like this and it’s usually easily remedied by either applying with your finger or by wetting your brush. 10 Years Younger Makeup Finish to the rescue! I used it to wet my brush and I was pleased with the results. It seems like an overall nice formulation but it wasn’t something that blew my mind. The shade I recieved is however stunning, honey and I will use it again especially for the fall! 

Overall, my opinion is that Limelight by Alcone, although quite new to the direct sales industry, proves that their 50 years in the stage and screen makeup industry can assure you that you really are getting a quality product. If you want to try any of it for yourself, please let Jessica be your (beauty) guide! 

 

Marathon Makeup by Guest Blogger Jessica Gray

How do you keep your makeup in place all day long? This is an age old question and something I have spent so much time perfecting over the last year. All these terms like primer and setting spray make it sound like you are prepping for a renovation right? But taking just a little extra prep you can stay looking refreshed all day. This is all about my top favorite types of products to keep you looking your best.

Jessica can help you create your own marathon proof makeup look!

A waterproof concealer is super important to me, I’m sweating all day with three kids running around. I also have little time to touch up my face. So I want a concealer that covers my dark circles and blemishes but also stays right where I want it. No slipping and no streaks from sweat (or tears).

Next up is a fantastic mascara that gets my straight lashes a little curl, adds some volume, and takes them to lengths they can’t achieve all on their own. My perfect mascara is a formula that does all of the above without any flaking whatsoever. Because again, maybe tears and lots of little hands touching my face.

Another must have is an eyeshadow that doesn’t fade through the day. I prefer coppers and pinks with my skin tone. With hooded eyes as well, the crease tends to get a little muddy half way through so give me tons of pigment! I want that little bit of color to keep popping until bedtime.

Finally, the most important key or method to my madness, if you will, is a tried and true setting spray. I need this to be tough. I need it to help keep my makeup from settling into fine lines and keep my makeup vibrant. It’s like staining a deck without sealing it all, no fade please! 

LimeLight little black box, double layer magnetized palette $38

10 years younger finishing spray manufactured by Skindinavia $28

Waterproof complete concealer $24 

Perfect mascara $20 

Pick and choose your own shades-

Double blush palette $40 (single $22)

6 well perfect eyeshadow palette $64 (singles $12)

Running the World

When I started this blog, I really didn’t know what would come of it. I started it at a time where I had a lot of emotions taking over me, and I thought maybe writing them down would help. It did. I debated a little bit about whether or not to make the blog public or not but decided I would because as much as it was mostly for my mental health, I thought perhaps it might inspire someone else. I also thought a happy side effect *might* be someone noticing this blog who could help me figure out a way to reach my surgery goals faster…but really, I didn’t expect it to get many followers or views and expected it to fizzle out quickly regardless of any “big plans” I had in my head.

I need to cut it out with this doubting myself crap! This blog has gone so well! I have gained followers on Instagram, Facebook and subscribers here on this blog. Everyday I am astounded by the number of new visitors and views I’m getting from all over the world! 

My blog has had viewers from all of the highlighted parts of the map!

I still don’t really know what will come of this or for how long it will continue, but I’m so thankful for the support and for this outlet. I really hope I can keep it going for all of us! 

On that note, I have some exciting news to share! 

  I ran my first race since my injury this weekend. It was the Run The World 5k at Kent State University where my son is a freshman. This race supports the study abroad program and I thought it was a great race to participate in since my son is required to study abroad for his major. Besides that, I loved the idea of exploring his campus on a run! 

I’d planned to register for this race a long time ago, but then when I sprained my ankle I put off registering because I was unsure if I’d be ready. I ended up finally registering the day before the race, so I hadn’t exactly prepared myself the week leading up to it like I normally would for a race. I babysat late the night before and got up early for the race not feeling well…but I kept calm and carried on, laced up my new Saucony Ride 10s and gave it all I had! 

The race fell on a day that is pretty significant to me. One of my very best friends had a beautiful son named Tyler who was born on September 9th, 2001. Tyler lost his life when he was 7 years old to a pediatric brain tumor but race day would have been his 16th birthday. Like I said, I was not feeling well when I woke up for this race…but, I will always run for those who can’t. Especially Tyler…always for Tyler. 

I felt really awesome during my run in spite of being a bit under the weather. I didn’t get a PR but considering all of the factors I thought would make it a terrible run, I was extremely happy with my time and ranks! It was also a really fun run which is the most important thing! 

Something else very cool is in the works that will take me a bit more “global” as well!  I was approached at a race a few months back by a lovely woman from an internet radio station who asked if she could interview me about running. I love running, but I wasn’t sure I was quite what she was looking for. I’m still a fairly new runner, and I’m not even the greatest at it. Apparently though, that is exactly what she wanted. Relatable, down to earth talk about running and what everyone can gain from it.  I recorded a show with her which will air September 19th at 2pm EST and will be replayed after that. 

I think it went really well, because she messaged me telling me that she spoke to a local running store and we have a meeting set up for this week to talk. She said they are interested in possibly partnering with me for a weekly show or sponsoring one for me! I’m praying about it. It sounds like a very incredible opportunity to share my story and inspire people…maybe brand myself a little for some unknown reason that God will surely reveal to me down the line! I hope you’ll tune in to hear me! I’ll be sure to link all of the shows here on the blog. 

A “Younique” Experience

As part of my September beauty series I am so excited to bring you reviews from several direct sales beauty companies. The first company in our series is Younique and Rebecca Weed is the lovely consultant who provided me with these products in exchange for this review. She also did a fun guest blog post with some great tips on how to multitask with the items in your makeup bag so please check it out! 

While I was provided these items free of charge, I promised my readers and the consultants an honest review, so please keep in mind that this is exactly what you will get! 

Rebecca provided me with three items from Younique and they arrived shipped from her, and not directly from the company so I can’t speak to Younique’s shipping packages. However, the makeup itself has very nice packaging overall and I will break that down more for you later. 

The items I was sent for review: Pressed Shadow (single) $18 (also available to purchase in quads for $52), Moodstruck 3D Fiber Lashes $29 and the Lip BonBon $22 all available for purchase here.

The first product I was sent was the Younique Lip BonBons Tinted Lip Balm in the shade Red Velvet Cake which is described as “very berry”.  The Younique website details the product by saying “With fruit extracts and natural oils, all you need is just a touch throughout the day to add a subtle hint of color while moisturizing and pampering your lips.”
My first impression when I opened the box was how impressive the packaging was! Inside the box is a very weighty metallic tube that is not only beautiful but feels very well made. The cap is a screw on, which I love because I can’t even count the number of times I’ve had the caps come off of my lip products in my purse or pocket. The screw on top is beautifully secure and will save many purses from disaster! 

There seems to be quite a bit of product inside as well, which is good considering these run a bit pricier than your average lip balm at $22 a piece  (or in a bundle of 5 for $99). 

This tinted lip balm went on like butter! It feels very nourishing and moisturizing and it lasts! It was several hours before I felt the product had worn off but even then the beautiful tint and smooth lips remained. 

The Lip BonBons are very subtly sweetened and scented but with names like “Vanilla Milkshake”, “Raspberry Cheesecake” I expected the scents and flavors to be more noticeable. This could be a pro or a con depending on what you like. I personally love everything to smell like a donut shop so I hoped for more noticeable flavor and fragrance. 

The next product I opened was the Moodstruck Pressed Shadow single in a metallic champagne shade called “antsy”. I noticed when I opened my package that the shadow came in a plastic package along side a very nice magnetic compact that the shadow itself could be transferred into! They even included a sticker with the name of the shade to label the compact which I felt was such a nice touch. Rebecca tells me that these shadow singles retail for $18 each or can be purchased as quads for $54. Refills without a compact are $14.     

I really enjoyed this shadow and in the look I created for this post I used it on my lid, inner corner and I even used it as my highlighter on my cheekbones, nose and cupids bow. When I swatched it (with and without primer)  the finger swatches were very nice. The brush swatches were less impressive but that is typical for shimmers and metallics. What did impress me was the color payoff I got on my eyelids! Sometimes with metallics I don’t get the payoff I want unless I either apply with my fingers or with a wet brush but in my look, the shadow was applied with a dry brush only! I am excited to see how it looks with a wet brush in a future look. I’m sure it will be even more intense and gorgeous! 

From left to right: finger swatch (no primer), brush swatch (no primer), finger swatch (with primer), brush swatch (with primer)

Last but not least, Rebecca sent me the Moodstruck 3D Fiber Lashes+ mascara which retails for $29. I will admit I had a lot of anxiety about reviewing this product because from what I hear most people either love it or…they loathe it’s very existance. I did some research before trying it and found that it’s common for there to be a bit of a learning curve and so I went in determined not to make my final judgements until I gave it a fair shot. 

While I was exceptionally pleased with the packaging of the other items I was sent to review, I felt like the packaging for the 3D lashes was kind of an overkill. There was a shrink wrapped box, from that you slide out another box, lift a flap to read some details about the product, and inside that box is a fabric pouch containing the steps for the 3D fiberlash+. I really loved the fabric pouch and think it’s cute and handy. I just think it easily could have fit in a smaller box with less waste. 

Younique says: Ready for a reboot? Built from the ground up, the all-new, wholly re-engineered Moodstruck 3D Fiber Lashes+ will boost your lash look like never before. We tossed out the old formula and started from scratch, and the result is a product that is built to last. See up to a 500% increase in average volume* with your first coat—and you don’t have to stop there. Whether you’re feeling subtle or sassy, defiant or classy, the new Moodstruck 3D Fiber Lashes+ will help you go wherever your mood takes you.

* Averaged results observed in independent laboratory testing, when compared against bare lashes. Two coats provide up to a 900% increase in average volume.

To see if these claims were true, I followed the instructions which were to apply the transplant gel, then the fibers and follow again with the transplant gel. The transplant gel reminded me of a typical mascara. The fibers….were weird. They are made of natural plant fibers but look just like tiny hairs and cling to their applicator like clumps of fuzz. 

Transplant gel (left), Fibers (right)

Fibers

Regardless of how weirded out I was about these fibers, I promised to give them a fair shot so I applied the product right away. I had no other makeup on but asked my daughter how my lashes looked to which she replied “They look a little bit glumpy.”  Bummer! Upon closer inspection, my lashes didn’t really appear “glumpy” to me but there were a significant amount of fibers loose on my face and around my eyes. I washed it off to try a few more times and I will say, I love how easy this was to remove! Definite pro! No raccoon eyes! 

First application, showing loose fibers on my skin

I played with the mascara quite a few more times that evening and eventually got my lashes looking pretty good. There is definitely a learning curve to determine how much of each step to apply and how long to wait between coats so if that’s not something you’re willing to work through this probably won’t be a new experience you’ll enjoy. 

However, with some practice you will definitely notice a significant increase in lash length and especially volume and the outcome is a very bold full set of lashes! 

Younique 3D fiberlash (one coat) + vs bare lashes

I tend to prefer a more separated and wispy lash look, so at first I was thinking this look wasn’t for me but after wearing it with a full face all day it ended up growing on me and when I would catch glimpse of myself in the mirror I felt like my lashes looked quite pretty. 

I’ve seen claims that this mascara was a good alternative to false lashes…and that’s a “no” from me. It’s a completely different look. It is however a very good mascara if you like a very bold mascara look.  

The mascara, once I got my technique down, wore well without leaving fibers everywhere and even made it through a sweaty run! 

Later in the day, I tried to apply another coat and unfortunately this time ended up a little “glumpy” so once you get your technique for coat number one down, I suppose you can work on building up! 

I’ll definitely keep playing with this one. It’s not what I’d typically go for in a mascara but I do see a lot of potential and will continue to use it.  

I want to thank Rebecca again for generously sending these products over to Muscles, Miles and Mascara! Please head her way if you want to try any of these products for yourself or to see all the other items she carries! I HIGHLY recommend the pressed shadow, and think the Lip Bon Bon is pretty great as well. I’m undecided on the mascara but Younique has a great satisfaction guarantee so you can pick it up and try it for yourself without risk! 

Stay tuned next week as we welcome another guest blogger and review some more direct sales beauty products! 

Minimalist Makeover: Full Face Using Only 5 Products by Guest Blogger Rebecca Weed

Not every woman has a designated area for her makeup. Some women have bins full of different products whereas others have a single small bag. This is what’s called, a minimalists makeup bag; foundation, blush, eyeshadow, mascara (a must!) and some type of lippie. Did you know, however, that you can create a FULL face of makeup using just those simple items? I’m talking the works-the highlight, contour, brows and even eye liner! Say whaaat??

Here is how you can use these 5 simple items to put on a full face:

• Start with your base. Every artist needs a clean canvas to start with; yours may or may not be with foundation, but for the sake of this blog, we will use foundation. I apply mine with a blending bud but you can use your hands too!
• Contour. Yes, I said it and it can be done using the products in your little bag. Can you guess which one? Right! Eyeshadow, it is the most versatile product out there. Use your finger, a contour brush (if you have one) or a fluffy brush to add some depth to your face just under the cheekbone.
• Add some color to those beautiful cheekbones! Sure there’s the blush you have in your bag, but why not try something a little different? Say you left your blush on the counter at home?? (*gasp* it’s not like you ever forget anything…*insert eyeroll*) It’s ok, don’t panic! Use that beautiful shade of pink from that lippie and just pat a touch of it onto those gorgeous cheekbones. A little too much pink? Use your blending bud or brush to blend it out.
• Your eyes need a little color too right? Right! Thank goodness for that eyeshadow (or the blush you forgot at home…)! Keep it low key, nothing bold, just a pop of color to make them stand out.
• Hmmm what will you do about eye liner? I mean, to put on a WHOLE face you have to do a wing of some sort. That’s ok! No worries, that beautiful lippie triples (yep I am going there!) as an eyeliner. It’s easy peasy and super cute, besides, who said your wing had to be black? To apply, simply put a little of that liquid lipstick on the back of your hand and use a small angled brush to apply just at the lash line and wing it out!
• Highlight girl! You deserve to shine! Again, that eyeshadow palette you have comes in handy when it has a light shimmer shade so, glow baby glow!! Rub your finger over that beautiful shade (Tender, in my case) and dab it along the tops of your cheekbones. Voila! You can now be seen from Heaven! Guaranteed pass through the Golden Gates.
• What about those brows?? Oh heaven knows you can’t do a full face and not do those brows! It’s a good thing you remembered to grab your eyeshadow! Grab that small angle brush again and lightly touch the shadow of your choice. Start outlining your brows first to get the desired shape and then fill them in. Don’t forget to blend so that it looks natural and not all Groucho Marx-y.

• Of course, your lashes have to be in check as well. Every girl has this makeup product in their bag no matter how much “makeup” she wears. 

• Last, but certainly not least, your lips need love too. Tired of the same old color? Remember that blush you forgot at home (but conveniently found in your bag to do this look?)? Take your shadow brush (or your finger) and lightly sweep it over your lipstick! 

This look was created using 5 items. Here is the list: Younique Touch Mineral Foundation (Velour) $39, Moodstruck Addiction eyeshadow palette #4 (shades: arrogant, brave, tender), Moodstruck Epic Mascara $24, Moodstruck Powder Blush (Supported) $29, Splash Liquid Lipstick (Sentimental) $27 all available for purchase here.

Moral of the story-You don’t need to spend hundreds on makeup to paint your canvas. Improvise using your imagination. After all, that’s what art is, right?

Rebecca can help you put together your minimalist makeup bag!