I’ve always loved reading and in that dreamiest of dream homes, I always imagined a giant library, the two floored type found in old manor houses.  Despite that, I’ve never been a collector of books due to lack of space.  I grew up as a regular visitor to the library, so if I wanted to read something I’d just borrow.  Every  now and then though, something will catch my eye.  Two weeks ago I was at the local bookstore.  It should be no surprise that I found myself browsing the health and beauty section, and I found a few goodies.

The first was a book written by Chizu Saeki, one of Japan’s top beauty consultants.  It’s titled “The Japanese Skincare Revolution: How to Have the Most Beautiful Skin of Your Life — At Any Age.  A bit of a mouthful to be sure, but wow.  It’s only 126 pages and with it’s how-to, manual stylings – I read it all while enjoying a luxurious soak in the tub.  Yes, I do read quickly.. but I couldn’t believe I actually finished it.  It was light reading and obviously the subject of skincare held my attention.

I really enjoy her holistic approach to skincare.  Some people might not take it seriously, but it really does make sense when you stop and think about it.  It actually brought to mind an article written by Felicia of ThisThatBeauty about hyperpigmentation.  Two women just telling it like it is.

The ideas are simple.  The willpower required to start and maintain are what’s tricky.

Both the book and article are highly recommended, check them out!

Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Lip Tar

Category: Lip Gloss

Product Name: Obsessive Complusive Cosmetics Lip Tar

Product Description: A stunning new innovation in lip color, OCC Lip Tar combines the longevity of a lipstick, with the ease of application of a gloss. Goes on slick and moist, and dries down to a satin finish. Ultra-saturated in color, OCC Lip Tar contains an unprecedented amount of pigment, so a little goes a very, very long way. An intense yet featherweight layer of color that stands up to the scrutiny of Hi-Def Video and Digital Photography, without ever looking (or feeling!) heavy. Meant to be mixed, OCC Lip Tars come in concise range of colors (and black and white!) for a limitless selection of shades made by you!

Like all of our products, OCC Lip Tar is 100% Vegan and Cruelty-Free, and is also free of parabens and other harsh preservatives. A simple, elegant formula that contains Hemp Oil, Peppermint Oil and Vitamin E, OCC Lip Tar feels as good on the lips as it looks! (from www.occmakeup.com)

Price: $12.50 USD
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To help and reinforce the goal outlined in the last post, I’ve decided to tack on Project 10 Pan.  What is P10P?  As far as I’ve been able to tell it was something first suggested by Laura, the woman behind the lollipop26 channel on YouTube.

It means that I am not able to purchase any cosmetics until I have used up/hit pan on at least 10 items in my current collection.

It can be a foundation, lipstick, lipgloss, blusher, eyeshadow or eyeliner…anything like that…but I have to have completely used it up for it to count.

Once I have used up 10 I can then purchase something.

– lollipop26writes.com

I remember hearing about this a long time ago, and it sounded like a sensible idea. Despite that, it was clearly it was in direct opposition to my makeup fascination/obsession. The time has finally come and while I’m still concerned about using up limited edition items, I have plenty of items that are permanent fixtures in various lines, so if I really love it that much, I can just buy another one after the fact. As I work my way through this project I will keep you updated, and if you’re interested — give it a try!

I’m currently at 2/10 — it will be interesting to see how long it takes to finish.

Project 10 Pan: 2/10

In the past few weeks I’ve been thinking a lot about my collection.  As a beauty blogger, some people might think.. and this is unusual?

Most makeup geeks would say that there is never too much, but I think I’ve reached a saturation point.  Granted, I will always have an interest in trying new products.. but I don’t feel like there are many things missing in my collection’s current form.  Often when a new product or collection is launched I will check it out, but I’m pretty critical in the sense that I’m always looking out for dupes.  It’s so easy to get caught up in your comfort zone, until you realize that you’ve got 5 lipstick and 8 glosses that are maybe a shade or so apart.  A collection by it’s very nature could be considered “excessive”, but these days I’m really looking for those unique items, those products that are really different from what I already own.

With that said, I’ve decided that it’s time to sit down and do a proper inventory.  Until I’ve finished said inventory I won’t be purchasing anything new.. with the exception of replacing something like foundation or moisturizer.  Once it’s been completed I may or may not continue the “no-buy” for a month or two and really focus on shopping my stash.  I’ve also considered going through my backups and deciding on whether they’re really necessary.  I may even consider selling some things, but Canada Post is so expensive it really makes it hard to give people a good deal.

But I digress.  I do have a few things coming in the mail, but that aside I will be doing my best to avoid temptation.  But I figure that if I’m able to pass up the funky packaging of the Give Me Liberty of London launch.. I should be able to make it through.  Thanks to the ladies at Love Life Lipstick for the additional inspiration.

Wish me luck!

Greasepaint Stick Swatches

Now I’m on a kick with swatches, so here’s the next installment. This time around I’m featuring two similar products for the eyes that are multi-purpose as bases, liners and shadows.

The Greasepaint Stick made it’s debut this past fall with the release of MAC’s Style Black collection. It was released in a single colour that didn’t have a name, but matched the rest of the collection by being an intense black with a slight purple shimmer undertone. Shortly afterwards, the DSquared collection saw the release of two more colours, V (purple) and B (blue). Unfortunately, all three were limited edition.

Greasepaint Stick:
A smooth and creamy black eye crayon with an opalescent sparkle finish specially formulated for maximum drama. Easily provides ultra-high-level coverage. Versatile. Use as a soft but intense liner or blend out to create a smoke-like shadow. Long-wearing. Transfer and water-resistant. Limited edition.

- maccosmetics.com.au

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Mattene Lipstick Swatches

It’s been far too long since I’ve updated with a “stash” post. During today’s makeup storage re-organization I figured I might as well knock out another one.

Some more lip products, this time featuring the slender tubed Mattene and Slimshine lipsticks. While the packaging looks similar, the formulas couldn’t be anymore different.

Mattene Lipstick:
With its streamlined design, this new slimline lipcolour, features the traditional glamour properties of a matte lipstick – intense colour and semi-matte velvety finish – while offering a creamier, softer, more glide-on application. Non-caking, non drying. Moisturizing and incredibly wearable yet absolutely matte.

- maccosmetics.ca

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Two Tone

This look was inspired by the Spring Colour Forecast using a mix of pinks and corals, plus a bit of a twist. I’ve been fascinated with two toned lips for ages and figured this would be a good opportunity to try it out. Since pink and peach aren’t too much of a contrast, this came out relatively subtle. I actually really liked it, what do you think?

Face

• Make Up Forever HD Foundation / 153
• Maybelline Super Stay Makeup 24HR / Honey Beige
• MAC Eye Shadow / Handwritten
• MAC Brow Set / Clear
• MAC Sheertone Shimmer Blush / Dollymix
• MAC Powder Blush / Rhubarb
• MAC Studio Fix / NC 42

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After posting the photos I decided to do a video version as well, for those who may want a better look at some of the products.

Enjoy!