Review: Ashunta Sheriff Perfect Blend Dual Foundation & Brush

Ashunta Sheriff Perfect Blend Dual Foundation & Brush

Ashunta Sheriff Perfect Blend Foundation ($40, .6oz) is a dual-ended cream foundation stick that offers two different shades providing a customizable, lifted and sculpted flawless finish all in one product for all complexions.

Available in (6) shades: fair, light, medium, tan, deep and dark.

Ashunta Sheriff is a celebrity makeup artist known for her work on some of Hollywood's appraised stars such as Queen Latifah, Mary J. Blige, Alicia Keys and Janelle Monae - to name a few.

Left to right: Medium / Tan (lighter shades)

Left to right: Medium / Tan (darker shades)

The convenient, easy-to-travel-with Perfect Blend Dual Foundation comes with 2 shades, a highlight and contour shade. It is a cream foundation but has a semi-matte finish and offers buildable coverage (medium to full coverage) that can also be sheered out with a bit of moisturizer. It may not seem like a lot of product when you twist up the ends but trust me when I tell you that a little goes a long way with this foundation. Although not the most sanitary, my favorite way to use these foundations is drawing it directly on the face. Just make sure to sanitize them after every client. They go on buttery smooth and when blended out truly look and feel like skin without settling into fine lines. Because it is a cream product, it will make you look dewy throughout the day so you may want to set it with powder to prevent that if you're not into the dewy look. It lasted me all day when set with powders (10 hours) with very minimal fading.

I have the Perfect Blend Dual Foundation in Medium & Tan for review. Tan suits me better as the lighter shade is more of my foundation color and the darker is closer to my contour color. I do like the light shade in Medium to highlight though. In this case, I use Tan and highlight certain areas with a light concealer.

Wearing Ashunta Sheriff Perfect Blend Foundation (Medium) as highlight & contour

Wearing Ashunta Sheriff Perfect Blend Foundation (Medium) as highlight & contour

Wearing Ashunta Sheriff Perfect Blend Foundation (Medium) as highlight & contour

 SWATCHES

Swatches left to right: Medium / Tan (applied directly from tube)

Blended Swatches left to right: Medium / Tan (blended out w/ dual ended brush)

As a makeup artist I find myself having to mix 2 foundation colors to get a customized color for my clients. Every makeup artist's dream is to be able to carry around a lighter makeup kit but still have every product with them. The Perfect Blend Foundation sticks are every MUA's dream come true.

The Dual Ended Perfect Face Brush is a true game changer, again offering two products in one. Its soft vegan bristles allow for a smooth, uniform, effortless application. Use the larger domed side to buff and blend product on the face and the smaller end to blend out harder to reach areas like contouring the nose and concealing small dark spots. I've been loving this dual purpose brush to blend out any cream products.

Perfect Face Dual Ended Brush

Perfect Face Dual Ended Brush (larger side)

Perfect Face Dual Ended Brush (detailed side)

** The foundation & brush set are sold at a discounted price - $50**

PACKAGING
The Perfect Blend Dual Foundation comes housed in a sleek gunmetal tube with pull off caps on each end and safety plastic caps on the product itself. Each side twists up and down to reveal the foundations. The product itself smells amazing, it has an ever so light sweet, fresh, clean scent without smelling like that usual overpowering soap/floral fragrance. This is a positive in my book since it won't break my skin out from containing strong fragrances. I would say the one thing missing to complete high grade packaging is that the color shade is not found on the actual packaging, only on the box. This creates a bit of a problem for anyone owning more than one shade. It would also be nice to know which side is the lighter/darker shade before taking off the caps. I've put stickers on mine to differentiate the color shades.

OVERALL THOUGHTS
Ashunta Sheriff did us beauty addicts right when creating the Perfect Blend Dual Foundation. This beauty innovation actually deserves more attention than it has gotten. The smooth application and flawless finish of this cream product is sure to shine. A must have for your makeup artist kit or anyone's makeup bag, it is the perfect product for creating a beautiful natural face all while providing the right amount of coverage even for those with discoloration and dark spots. I would recommend this beauty find to everyone interested in using a convenient foundation that provides 2 shades in one product. And don't forget to get your hands on the Perfect Face Dual Ended Brush - it's magic!

Availability: Ashunta Sheriff Beauty
Price: $50 (bundle)/$40 (foundation)/$15 (vegan brush)


Disclaimer: This product was sent to me for consideration by the manufacturer. This does not affect any opinions featured in this post as they are my own honest experiences with the product.     

*Limited Edition* Milani Constellation Gel Eye Liners Review + Photos

Milani Constellation Gel Eye Liners

Milani Constellation Gel Eye Liners ($6.99, .14 oz) are part of the Limited Edition Bedazzled Collection. These vibrant shimmery gel liners provide smudge-proof, long wearing pigmented color for the classic cat eye or a smoldering smoky look. Please note that the shimmer is an overspray.

I haven't seen them at my local drugstores but if you happen to.. honey you better get you some! These babies were reportedly flying off the shelves and that's why many people haven't even had the chance to spot them.

Available in (3) colors: (01) Enchanted Lapis, (02) Enchanted Black Opal, (03) Enchanted Emerald.

Enchanted Lapis (01) Constellation Gel Eye Liner

Enchanted Lapis is a mix of dark blue, purple and silver with the overspray. Once the overspray has been mixed it becomes a deep bright metallic blue with a silver shimmer.

Enchanted Black Opal (02) Constellation Gel Eye Liner

  Enchanted Black Opal is a mix of black, silver, pale gold and burgundy with the overspray. Once the overspray has been mixed it becomes a metallic charcoal with silver shimmer.

Enchanted Emerald (03) Constellation Gel Eye Liner

Enchanted Emerald is a mix of teal, purple, green and silver with the overspray. It becomes a beautiful deep teal once mixed together. Enchanted Emerald is my favorite of the three colors.

As with most brushes that are included in drugstore cosmetics, I would just chuck them into the trash bin but these liner brushes are surprisingly amazing! Not only do I use them to apply these liners but they also work great with my other gel liners. The brush itself is a travel sized brush with dense bristles meaning it is super easy to use and provides more control when applying your liner. It picks up just the right amount of product; the tip is perfect for creating thin lines and with just a twist of the brush you can easily create thicker lines.

Travel-sized brush included

As you know when it comes to drugstore liners it's pretty much a hit or miss but as always Milani did not fail us with these babies. The texture is very creamy, glides on easily and is very rich in color. It's so creamy, you have a good amount of time to work with them - take your time creating that perfect cat eye or smudge them out for a smoky effect. They also create a great base for shadows. That being said, you will need to allow the product to set for 1-2 minutes so it won't smear. I'm not complaining though, I'm a happy camper as long as a creamy product sets. These babies won't budge once they have.

Mixed overspray

The product itself is an array of mixed colors that simply put, resemble galaxies. Trust me when I tell you that you won't want to touch these because of the stunning embossed swirl of gorgeousness. The downfall is that the shimmery goodness is a just an overspray. Regardless, the colors are still very pretty and unique compared to other drugstore products.

Enchanted Lapis (01), Enchanted Black Opal (02), Enchanted Emerald (03)

Enchanted Lapis (01), Enchanted Black Opal (02), Enchanted Emerald (03)

PACKAGING
The Constellation Gel Liners come in the ever popular Milani packaging known for their gold plastic. They are housed in a round container with a clear twist off cap. Although I have always loved the Milani packaging, they are a bit too bulky for my liking. The amount of product (.14 oz) is at the standard of other gel liners (Inglot's liner has .19 oz of product). Now, I understand that in order to design the galaxy effect on the product they would need the space for that, but then maybe the packaging could have been thinner. I don't know if there are reasons to the bulky packaging but I'm hoping that these liners don't dry out quickly. I hate it when that happens!
 

OVERALL THOUGHTS
If you come across the Milani Constellation Gel Liners I recommend that you pick them up, especially since they are limited edition. The pigmentation, formula and distinctive colors are well worth the price for a drugstore product and they will not disappoint. The only con I have with these liners is that the shimmer designs are an overspray, I've never seen anything more gorgeous, it would be nice to keep the design. Although we don't continue to see the constellation effect in the product, the colors are still beautiful when mixed. For a long-wearing unique gel liner, Milani has definitely done a job well done.

Availability: Drugstores - CVS, Walgreens
Price: $6.99 ea.


Disclaimer: This product was sent to me for consideration by the manufacturer. This does not affect any opinions featured in this post as they are my own honest experiences with the product.   

Gorgeous Cosmetics Perfect Base Liquid Foundation Review + Demo

Gorgeous Cosmetics Base Perfect Foundation

Gorgeous Cosmetics Perfect Base Foundation ($45/1 oz.) is described as oil free and long lasting, this silky foundation delivers flawless results for a perfect complexion. The smooth, oil free emulsion blends effortlessly onto the skin. Special light diffusing pigments amplify the light, giving skin the appearance of a healthy luminosity. Contains Vitamins A and E to soothe and condition the skin. Medium to full coverage, suitable for all skin types.

Available in (18) shades ranging from 4 skintones (#) and 5 different undertones (letter): 1N, 2N, 3N, 1NB, 2NB, 3NB, 1B, 2B, 3B, 4B, 1Y, 2Y, 3Y, 4Y, 5Y, 1D, 2D, 3D. 

Here's a Foundation Chart sent to me by Gorgeous Cosmetics:

FIRST, FIND YOUR NUMBER (this is the intensity)

- #1 is our light tone

-#2 is our medium range

-#3 is for tanned skin 

- #4 and 5 are for deeper skin tones.

SECOND, FIND YOUR LETTER (this is the undertone)

-The letter should match the undertone of your skin:

N= Neutral (if your undertone is between yellow & pink— a balanced undertone)

NB= Neutral Beige (closer to pinkish undertones)

B= Beige/Pink (beige/pinkish undertones)

Y= Yellow

D= Dark

Gorgeous Cosmetics Base Perfect Foundation in 2N (swatched w/ finger)

Gorgeous Cosmetics Base Perfect Foundation in 2N (blended out w/ finger)

In my case, I chose the Perfect Base Foundation in 2N. When swatched on my arm it looks too dark for my face but once I worked it into my skin it seemed to work just fine with my summer tan (which I'm trying to hold onto as long as I can!) And since I typically highlight my face it worked perfectly alongside the foundation to make the brightened areas stand out more. I was advised that the lighter shades are a bit darker but looking at the 1N sample I was sent it would have been too light and pink for me. Choosing your appropriate shade is a bit difficult, you may want to try getting a sample or get color matched at Nordstrom before committing to a color.

PERFORMANCE
The foundation gives a medium to full coverage in a lightweight formula. I applied it with my beauty blender and was surprised out how lightweight it actually felt. It literally felt like I had no foundation on whatsoever! (I even checked myself in the mirror a few times to make sure it was still there lol) It blended into my skin so effortlessly and actually felt as though I was applying a moisturizer rather than a foundation, which is a big plus in my makeup book. The foundation gave my skin a flawless and nice healthy glow all while keeping it moisturized throughout the day with it's soothing vitamin A & E. It lasted me about 12 hours maybe more (this was towards the end of the night so I removed my makeup). Towards the end of the day I did notice a bit of shine on my forehead but nothing major (I don't have oily skin at all and instead do get dry patches on certain areas of my face). This foundation might not be suitable for those with oily skin.

Before & After using the Base Perfect Liquid Foundation

The foundation has a fresh perfume scent that I don't mind at all but those who are sensitive to smells may not like it. To put the smell into words, it reminds me of a fresh soap scent, like when someone comes straight out of the shower.

Gorgeous Cosmetics Base Perfect Liquid Foundation on face

There was one major downfall for me with this foundation and that was that one of the ingredients in it is fragrance (parfum). The first time I tested it on my face I noticed a few break outs the next morning. I wasn't sure if it was the foundation itself or something else that may have caused the breakout so I decided to stop using it for the meantime. I went back to using my everyday foundation and my face cleared up. After a week or so, I tested the Perfect Base Liquid Foundation again this time for a week. After 3 days I had to stop using it from the bad breakout it caused on my entire face. Reminiscent of MAC's Studio Fix Fluid Foundation in consistency, smell and finish, I hardly ever reach for it because of the reaction my skin has to it. I've come to realize that any foundation with a perfume smell to it does not do well on my skin. This is why I tend to stick to drugstore foundations that practically have no distinctive scent to them.

Gorgeous Cosmetics Base Perfect Liquid Foundation on face

PACKAGING
Gorgeous Cosmetics is truly up there when it comes to beautiful and sleek packaging. The Base Perfect Foundation comes in a cylinder matte black lightweight yet durable bottle. It has a pull off cap that houses a pump which dispenses just the right amount of foundation. I love the unique packaging of the bottle but I'm a bit hesitant about not being able to see or feel (as mentioned before the bottle is lightweight) how much product is left.

Pump Dispenser

Controlled Pump Dispenser

OVERALL THOUGHTS
I can't tell you how bummed out I am that my skin had a bad reaction to the Base Perfect Foundation. It is such a pity because I am absolutely in LOVE with the texture, smell and finish of this foundation. It is a super lightweight foundation that has medium to full coverage (essential when I look for foundations). It's long-lasting formula kept nicely throughout the day without any touch-ups (about 12 hours). If you are not sensitive to any of the ingredients found in the Base Perfect I absolutely recommend it. I have been loving the Gorgeous Cosmetics  thus far! Click on the link to see my review on the Shimmer Dusts.

Availability: Nordstrom.com / Gorgeouscosmetics.com
Price: $45

Disclaimer: This product was sent to me for consideration by the manufacturer. This does not affect any opinions featured in this post as they are my own honest experiences with the product.  

Gorgeous Cosmetics 'Soft Grape' Shimmer Dust Review + Swatches + Makeup Look

Gorgeous Cosmetics Shimmer Dust in Soft Grape

Gorgeous Cosmetics Shimmer Dust ($25/3g) is described as luxurious loose powder pigment, which dusts lightly over eyes, face and body.  Highly pigmented and super silky soft.  Simply alter your application technique to create a gorgeous soft sheen, an intense colour effect or anything in between.

Available in (18) colors: Antique Gold, Antique Pink, Aqua, Burnt Copper, Forest, Gold, Luminesence, Minty, Ms Vegas, Mysterious, Plum, Purple Berry, Sand, Seriously Violet, Silver Suede, Soft Grape, Starlet, Suede.

Soft Grape is a soft purple with pink undertones. It's a great color for those who are scared to work with purples on the lids. Layer it over other purples or mix with browns, blacks or greens for a nice pop of color!

These highly pigmented loose pigments blend smoothly and are easy to build intensity when layering them. To build a saturated color on the lid they can be used with a wet brush, I like to use MAC Fix+ on my brush to make the pigment color pop even more. Used over an eye primer, this pigment has a  lasting power of around 7 hours. Use a very light dusting with these shimmers on the body as well for a very pretty glow.

Soft Grape Swatch (1 layer)

Layered Swatch (2 layers)

 

Wet Swatch (1 layer)

PACKAGING
Gorgeous Cosmetics Shimmer Dusts come in a round matte black plastic container with a see-through twist cap. The shimmer itself is covered by a sifter which allows you to control the amount of product you need. At 3g (11 oz) of product it might seem a bit small for the

price but remember, when working with pigments a little goes a long way. Pigments come in small amounts no matter the brand. The shimmer dusts come with less product for a few bucks more than the MAC pigments ($21/0.15oz).

"Gorgeous Cosmetics is an prestige cosmetic brand, founded in Melbourne, Australia in 1999. From face primers to contour powders and lipsticks they offer a variety of cosmetics. The brand is a one stop shop in creating a full flawless look from start to finish. Enriched with anti-aging and healing ingredients such as Chamomile, Aloe Vera and Vitamins A & E, the Gorgeous Cosmetics range embodies quality to create a complete Pro makeup collection." Gorgeouscosmetics.com

Overall Thoughts
These finely milled shimmers are beautiful pigmented products to work with. They are so simple to use and apply to the eyes. Amp up a simple eye look with a shimmer dust. Applying them wet builds the intensity of your look. The packaging, quality and lasting power of them are well worth the price. I can't wait to get my hands on more colors!

Gorgeous Cosmetics 'Soft Grape' Shimmer Dust on center of lid

Gorgeous Cosmetics 'Soft Grape' Shimmer Dust on center of lid

Availability: Nordstrom / Gorgeous Cosmetics
Price: $25
 
Disclaimer: This product was sent to me for consideration by the manufacturer. This does not affect any opinions featured in this post as they are my own honest experiences with the product.   

theBalm Cindy-Lou Manizer

theBalm Cindy-Lou Manizer ($24) is described as an all-in-one essential, smart shadow, beautiful blush and subtle highlighter that is tucked inside a go-anywhere compact. The light-reflecting peachy pink hue adds a splash of color to your cheeks and a hint of shimmer to your lids, while illuminating your finest features.

This beautiful soft sheen pressed powder can be used as a highlighter, blush or shadow on the lid. If you're familiar with theBalm products you know that they are very pigmented and have a silky buttery texture. This is the same for this multi-use beauty product. Use a light tap of your brush when applying the Cindy-Lou Manizer; its high pigment goes on smoothly so you don't need to use much of it.

Packaging
As with all of theBalm line, the packaging of this compact has a unique whimsical theme that is carried throughout their powder products. The inside holds a nice sized mirror which comes in handy for those of us that like to use compact mirrors.

With .30oz of product it is a fairly decent size compact powder that will last you for quite some time. Remember, a little goes a very long way with their products so use it sparingly. I have yet to hit pan on my previously reviewed Mary-Lou Manizer and have had it for more than year now; I use it on a regular daily basis.

theBalm Mary-Lou Manizer is similar to the Cindy-Lou but just in another shade. The Cindy-lou Manizer is a soft pink powder with peach undertones whereas the Mary-Lou Manizer is a champagne-colored powder.

Swatches

At first, the swatch applies heavily but when sheered out using a brush it gives a more subtle shine to the skin and does not appear as powdery as the intial swatch done with my finger.

Wearing Cindy-Lou Manizer on cheeks

Overall Thoughts
Although it is a beautiful powder I don't think it will be replacing my Holy Grail highlighter, Mary-Lou Manizer. Since I have more of a medium skin tone I plan to use it more as an eyeshadow and blush. I do think that it will work great as a highlighter on lighter or darker skin tones. On my skin though, it gives a subtle sheen on the cheeks but I tend to go for more dramatic highlighters on my cheekbones. Be mindful when working with high sheen powders like these. If you have drier areas on your face make sure you avoid putting them on those areas being that they tend to emphasize them more. All in all this gorgeous powder is going to be a nice little addition to my collection and I recommend it to anyone looking for a pink-toned highlighter.

Availability:Nordstrom / theBalm 
Pricing: $24

Disclaimer: This product was sent to me for consideration by the manufacturer. This does not affect any opinions as they are my own honest experiences with the product.