Benefit's Stay Don't Stray

It's a concealer that makes your eye makeup last and last. No, really! Benefit's Stay Don't Stray ($26) is amazing! I was skeptical because I've always used my cream concealer to make my eye shadow stay put but Stay Don't Stray does something more.

This ia a dual-action primer that works for your lids and your under eye area. It works perfectly as a dark circle concealer that does not crease and it keeps your shadows in place without creasing as well. Sodium Hyaluronate hydrates and fills in fine lines while Vitamins C & E help fight the signs of aging. While I can't attest to that last part I do know that my eye make-up goes on all day and until I take it off. It isn't hard to remove when I want to either. I'm so in love with this product! A little goes a long way too. One pump is all you need for both eyes and then some. I like to use half a pump and still find I have a bit leftover and complete coverage.

Benefit's Stay Don't Stray is availalble at Ulta, Benfit stores and Sephora. For a limited time Stay Don't Stray is also available at the cute, stylish boutique, Cake Plate in Napa Valley. 

MPR Rating: Four Stars.

Disclaimer: MPR was not paid for this post. Products received are for review purposes only. Opinions are MPR's only.

Jouer Cosmetics Mad About Fall

What is it about film stars and television shows that can be so inspiring even when it is a blast from the past?  You see an old movie magazine photo and suddenly you want to Brigitte Bardot your hair. In Jouer Cosmetics case their new fall line is all about taking inspiration from the show Mad Men on AMC. 

Just like the women from the 60's the Jouer Liquid Shimmer eyeliners ($22) create that certain look we have all been looking for this fall.  I adore the Mink Liquid Shimmer eyeliner.  I am never able to apply liquid eyeliner but I can with this one.  It is so easy and mess free with real staying power. I was suitably impressed.  Paraben-free with Vitamins A & E the set comes in Fox (navy), Mink (taupe) and Sable (sheer aubergine). It is a water-based formula that dries fast and doesn't crease. The subtle shimmering shine is beautiful! I'm in love! 

You can purchase Jouer Mad About Fall eyeliners and any other Jouer cosmetics online.

MPR Rating:  Four Stars.

Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post. Products received are for review purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only.

Skindinavia Make Up Finishing Spray

Skindinavia's Original Makeup Finishing Spray ($29) extends your makeup for hours at a time while maintaining color and preventing makeup from slipping, melting and creasing. The Original formula is recommended for normal to combination skin types.  For oily skin check out the No More Shine formula.  Both are "kind of genius" as described by NBC's Today Show.  I have to agree.  I tested out both on dry and rainy days and found that my makeup looked fresh all day with each one.  While it is not something I normally would even think of using it is perfect for days when you need to look your best or yes, even rainy days.  That in particular was quite impressive. 

A bit more about Skindinavia's Makeup Finishing Spray- it was first used on movie sets to hold makeup under hot lights.  The need to minimize the need for touch ups and control excess shine is great in these scenarios. It is still used in Hollywood and on Broadway stages today.

Features and benefits:

• Fewer touch ups throughout the day.
• Stops makeup meltdown in summer and drying out in winter.
• Holds eye shadow, foundation, blush, and concealer perfectly.
• Leaves a translucent, smooth finish.
• Hypoallergenic, dermatologist tested, and oil free.

One thing I did notice with both, less with the No More Shine spray, was that initially there is a shiny finish just after spraying.  The product needs a few minutes to absorb and then you are good to go. 

20% OFF AND FREE SHIPPING ON ALL ORDERS OVER $40.
USE COUPON CODE: SAVE20

MPR Rating:  Four Stars.

Disclaimer: MPR was not paid for this post.  Products received are for review purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only.

How to Apply Red Lipstick

How to apply red lipstick


*Video courtesy of Howdini.com

Creating the Classic Cat Eye

Nuance by Salma Hayek review- love it and hate it.

While at Blogher I went to a beauty blogger luncheon sponsored by CVS. The main attraction at this event was Salma Hayek's new line of skincare and beauty products called Nuance. Inspired by the lifelong beauty rituals that her grandmother instilled in her Salma has created not just a handful of products but large lines with Nuance. After testing out my full-size samples for the last month the verdict on Nuance is in.

I received a plethora of product. Products prices range from $7.99- $19.99. I love that a paraben, not-tested on animals, exotic ingredient line is so readily available at your local CVS/Pharmacy store.

The Rosebud Hydrating Balm ($7.49) is a nice light pink that goes on thick. It is designed for dry spots like your lips, elbows and even cuticles. I love the idea but my idea was hard to come to fruition since it took me multiple tries to even open the jar. It is too short on the bottom to grip and once I managed to pop the top the lid wouldn't lock into place again. I didn't love that. Though I did love the results of the balm. If the jar is fixed, I would look into using the product again.

Beautiful Blends Lip Quad ($12.50) is really cool to look at as far as design goes. The sleek black plastic case unfurls to reveal four lipsticks in various complimentary shades and one lip brush sitting in the middle. I love the design. It won't fit in a purse but it looks real pretty on my bathroom counter. The lipsticks work well on everyone and they glide on easily. They don't have a great lasting power but the red, nude, gold glossy nude and pinky tone work so well, I didn't care. I love the shine, suppleness and design. It's a fun buy!

Flawless Mineral Cheek Trio ($12.99) looks great but it got really banged up on my return flight home from the conference. I couldn't use it sadly. I hear it is like "spun silk" and not cheap looking, which sounds fantastic.

Quinoa Smooth & Shine Shampoo and Conditioner looks pretty and sleek in its packaging. I love the deep purple bottles and how they look in my shower. Salma did well in how her products come across. They don't look like many drugstore brands. I like the idea of the quinoa-infused product too. The scent is light, slightly floral and doesn't stick around, which is another bonus. It rinses well and my hair just looks average. No change but it didn't destroy it either.

My favorite product of the lot is the Jojoba Dual Phase Body Oil which contains coconut oil, passion fruit extract and jojoba. You shake the bottle and spray. It absorbs quickly into your skin and you are moisturized for the day. It's simple, doesn't leak, isn't greasy and works fast. It is a great find! I love this stuff!

Overall the Nuance line has some good products that are worth the money. Some may work better for you than they did for me. I wanted more from the line and Salma. I would like to try the Eye Quad with shadows and the mascara at some point. I hear they perform well. Visit CVS/Pharmacy stores to try the Nuance products and if you don't like them, you can always return them.

For another view by a fantastic beauty blogger read this by Makeup and Beauty Blog.

MPR Rating: Three Stars.

Disclaimer: MPR was not paid for this post. Products received are for review and test purposes only. Opinions are MPR's only.

Images from cvs.com

L'Occitane Pivoine Flora

Fun Find- L'Occitane products are always a good find.  When they debut something new I usually want to test it out not just read the press release.  The Pivoine Flora line is no different.  The light, smooth and super creamy texture of the lotion ($36) is divine.  It has a fresh peony fragrance that is delicate and sweet, but not too sweet.  I love the jar that it comes in as well. It looks beautiful on my bathroom counter.

The Pivoine Flora line isn't just lotions, creams and scents but also ballet-inspired make-up.  There are bronzers, shadows, cream blushes ($16) and lipsticks.  I have found that the abricot cream blush (shown) is perfect for summer.  It's light in texture and goes on smooth. You simply can't add too much.  It blends so well and gives a nice summer glow to my cheeks. 












*Image from lookfantastic.com, l'occitane.com

EcoTools Choose to Live Beautifully

Get excited! EcoTools is beginning a nationwide campaign this Saturday (May 21, 2011) that allows people to recycle their make-up tools and get EcoTools products for free!

To kick off the “Choose to Live Beautifully” campaign, EcoTools will hold a sampling and beauty event at the Santa Monica Pier on Saturday, May 21, 2011, hosted by EcoTools fan and celebrity makeup artist, Fiona Stiles! Consumers can drop off used products and receive coupons on site, as well as get a complimentary makeup application and meet-and-greet with Ms. Stiles. Passers-by may also receive a valuable sample pack containing several EcoTools products to nurture their natural beauty. In the following weeks, EcoTools will hit the streets of two cities – Chicago (May 24) and Washington D.C. (May 26) – to pass out samples and give others the tools to inspire change!

Follow me on Twitter (@veamason) and EcoTools @EcoTools to find out more on those days!

Friday Giveaway- ECO TOOLS Brush Set

Enter to win the truly awesome ECO TOOLS 5 piece brush set by Alicia Silverstone.  Including five soft brushes and a zippered traveling case it is a set of brushes that I cannot live without.  I will choose a winner at random on May 20, 2011.  Enter by commenting or by "liking" MPR on Facebook. 

*Image from fortyflirtyfabulous.com

Fun Find- Borghese B Moisture Care Lipcolour

Want high fashion lip color that contains anti-aging conditioners? Borghese B Moisture Care Lipcolour has them! Available in two finishes- creme or luster these super smooth lipsticks glide on while providing hydration for your lips. There are over 15 colors to choose from in shades like Grappa, Misto Mandrino and Primale Pink. Loaded with Vitamin E and Ceramide 1 to nourish and moisturize each tube of lipstick ($24) lasts a long time and delivers a real burst of color. Pair is with a Borghese Rapido Fast Dry Nail Lacquer ($8) is one of their ultra sophisticated hues and you will be on point this season.

*Image from perfumezilla.com

Fun Find- Arbonne Triple Mascara

I've long been a fan of Arbonne products. It was one of the first things I reviewed and it saved my face- literally after the birth of my first child.  For months I had break outs, dry spots, you name it.  Testing the RE9 Skincare line from Arbonne was a true complexion saver.  My skin never looked so good. Even my mother said so!  The newest product is Arbonne's Triple Mascara. 



Enhanced, Botanically Based Formulation Volumizes, Lengthens and Defines Lashes.   A new, reformulated Triple Action Mascara. Created from an entirely updated botanical ingredient profile, the new mascara delivers thick, long and defined lashes, while resisting smudging.

"From teens to women 65 and older, mascara remains the number one product in the daily makeup repertoire," said Dr. Peter Matravers, Sr. Vice President of Product Development for Arbonne. "Our new mascara addresses some of the main concerns of daily wearers by maximizing volume and enhancing length. The new botanically based ingredients include fortifying conditioners to enrich moisture content and boost the overall look and feel of the lashes."

Arbonne's new Triple Action Mascara has a glamour enhancing extra-large brush to ensure complete coverage for defined lashes that can be achieved in just seconds.  The Triple Action Mascara is vegan certified, formulated without gluten, ophthalmologist tested and safe for contact lens wearers. All Arbonne products are pure, safe and beneficial.  Made from key ingredients like gogi extract, beet root extract, algae, thyme and more the Triple Action Mascara can be purchased online and through me.  So shoot me an email if you are interested in trying it.  There is a 100% 45-day guarantee too.

Friday Giveaway- black/UP Makeup

These products are really big in Europe and I'm giving some away to a lucky reader!  Black/UP is a luxury cosmetics brand for women of color and it is truly amazing stuff.  There are so many products and colors to choose from that it is no wonder it is so popular.  I hope we see more of it here in the States!

Black/UP offers "unique products, magical textures, amazing colors : you will be addicted !

Our complexion textures ,oil free ,velvet finish ,offer impeccable hold. Get ready for ultra-gentle formulas that ensure maximum confort.  Prepare yourself for an unbeatable choice of delicious shades : discover our Lipsticks , Mascaras and Eyeshadows."

For one lucky reader will get the Black/UP Matifying Base ($54) and a bottle of Foundation in color FL07. ($54) 

Enter to win by commenting.  Get additional entries by following this blog and/or retweeting.  Don't forget to include an email so I can contact you if you win.  Winner chosen at random on April 8, 2011.


*Image from vexinthecity.com

Fun Find-Bobbi Brown Peony Python Compact

Oh sweet, sweet perfection!  It is common knowledge that I adore make-up and every once in a while an item comes out that makes me squeal and sigh with intense delight.  Right now that little number is from the collaboration of Tibi and Bobbi Brown.  Their Peony and Python eye pallette ($50) is just simply amazing.

I opened it for the first time and gazed in wonder at its sheer beauty and simplicity.  The colors are gorgeous and yet so practical and fun to use.  The quality of Bobbi Brown is there as always too. Six gorgeous shades from lavendars to greys it includes shadows and liner too.  I love it. It is pretty, fun and edgy all at the same time.  A perfect way to spruce up your look any day or night!

For a limited time only. Get yours today!



*Image from thisissultryred.com

SweetLIPS lip gloss

My purse runneth over with lip gloss.  Pinks, peaches, clear, sparkly and even some with a lilac hue.  I love them in reds, purples, any color just not sticky.  A hint of shine, a bit of moisture and a dash of color and you are good to go!  beautyADDICTS sent me two glosses to try out from their SweetLIPS ($17) collection to test out.

Containing Vitamin E and Jojoba oil for moisturizing your wintry lips these glosses are thicker than some but they are not sticky or goopy.  That is a huge plus in my book. I thought that the bit of metallic sparkle would show up a lot more but it didn't, which was a good thing. I didn't want to intergalactic with the lilac gloss called, Motivate.  Both the peach (Express)and lilac shades went on slick and smooth.  The color is very faint and the shine is gorgeous without being too sloppy in appearance.  What you see in the tubes above is accurate but the actual color will barely show on your lips.  I found that adding the peach or lilac to a lipstick or lip liner gave the original colors a new dimension. A touch of vanilla scents SweetLIPS gloss but doesn't overpower in smell or taste.  These tubes are small and fit perfectly in your pocket or a tiny clutch which is another added bonus to this product. 

SweetLIPS gloss comes in four shades- Glow (pink), Motivate (lilac), Express (peach) and Seduce (red).  They are available online at the beautyADDICTS store, Amazon.com and other retailers nationwide.

MPR Rating: Three Stars.

Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post. Products were given for review and test purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only. 


*Image courtesy of beautyhobby.com.

MPR's 2010 Holiday Gift Guide

Small, sweet, a touch different.  Things I love that won't have you going over budget this year.  It's MPR's Holiday Gift Guide. By no means comprehensive but feel free to peruse the archives for even more ideas. 

Stocking Stuffers

EOS lip balm - ($3.99) small little spheres are super moisturizing lip balm.  Sold in a cute trio at your local Walgreens and available online too!  Alone or in the set the mint, medicated tangerine, lemon drop and more make great stocking stuffers.

Arbonne sea salt scrub-($28)  Smells heavenly, is super moisturizing and exfoliating. Perfect for winter skin!  It comes in three scents- citrus, lavendar and yling ylang.  I love it in the gift size or tub. 

Butter London nail lacquer ($14) No formaldehyde, no toulene, no DBP.  Just amazing and unique colors. 

Lonely Planet's 'Moveable Feast' ($10) available at Amazon.  A nice find for travel lovers and foodies.

Funky Men's Socks.  Weird, maybe?  But I find them at Target all year round.  My husband loves wild argyle colored ones, skull and crossbones, fish, whatever.  They are stylish if done right and add a bit more to their sometimes mundane wardrobe. 

EZ Sox- Perfect for little ones just learning to dress themselves. The adorable animal sox will teach them how to put them on and make quite a fashion statement. 

Gifts for Kids and Baby

Petit Tresor baby for Target- ($3-20) In soft, sweet pastels this limited time brand is being offered in bibs, blankets, lovies, hats, pants, sleepers and onesies.  I love the boys bear print with gingham accents. 

Red Tool box- Geared for boys and girls ages 8 and up these are real tools that kids can use.  It's a wonderful way to teach a child about woodworking and spend quality time together. 

eeBoo Picnic Game - ($16.99) Fill your plate and blanket with yummy treats and don't forget the napkin! A fun board game for kids 5 and up.  A tea party version is also available. 

Weeble Wobbles- They're baaack! Classic toys from Playskool they offer a great way for the toddler set to play and create a world full of imaginary scenarios. 

Princess Bubble- A great take on princesses when you have had enough of all those other pink, frilly, under-the-sea crown-wearing girls.  I love reading it to my daughters and giving them a better idea of what the world has to offer while still being under the guise of a princess. Truly a modern fairy tale.

Frances England- Any of her CD's will do.  Preschool age kids and under will love her sweet voice that doesn't sound too folksy or babyish. 

Babypop Designs Kids Cape- In almost any color and design these simple capes work for both boys and girls ten and under.  Order early to get them on time!  Your kid won't want to take their personalized cape off!

Carter's also has adorable holiday pajamas for a variety of ages as well as cute and stylish party clothes like this dress. 

For the Tweens and Teens

Tired of itunes gift cards or gift cards in general?  Don't want to give in and buy another expensive gadget or $200 pair of jeans or kicks?  Check out these ideas!

Beanies and Crocheted headbands- So many styles and colors to choose from at this Etsy shop. 

Snowglobe rings ($20), Cool tights or leggings, Twitter and Hashtag jewelry.

Pelican’s 2390 Flashlight to aid in any potential roadside emergency. In the event of a flat tire, it features a bright LED for ultimate illumination and a strong aluminum body that can double as a self defense item. Pelican’s 2390 Flashlight is the perfect trunk item in sticky situations too.

A custom skateboard ($60) from Zazzle! American Eagle Striped Sweater ($39.50) or Hammacher Schlemmer's Roll Up Drum Kit ($60) are great ideas for the guys.

The Find has these cool, manhole cover rugs for $25 too.

The Men Folk

Uncommon Goods has these great Whiskey Stones for $19 and Recycled Laptop Sleeves ($30) or a Bokashi Compost Starter ($60) if he likes to live in the garden.  For another $20 throw in a Salsa of the Month club gift from Amazing Clubs. 

Eastern Mountain Sports has a Gadget Charger pod for $50.

Mix Tape Memory Stick ($19.95 ) from X-treme Geek.




Last, but not Least, For Her

Murano Glass ring at Forzieri ($38) comes in beautiful colors for all tastes.  Mac and Jac Flyaway Cardigan ($69) from Nordstrom is warm, cozy and super stylish. 

Philosophy fans rejoice!  Their travel set is now available for $35 at Sephora and is great for jet-setters.  Sephora is a wonderful way to find gifts for the beauty queen in your life no matter what the age too.

Kohl's and New Balance have a pink running/workout jacket that is part of 'Race for the Cure' ($34). Pants, tanks and more are available in the pretty pink and black motif.

Karmaloop.com has an amazing Jack BB Dakota coat for $64 that is a must for any woman's wardrobe. 

Indie Film of the Month Club by Film Movement($42) with nothing to return ever.


Happy Holiday's! 

Fall 2010 Trends

Fall.  It is going for a run with a cool breeze blowing set against a clear, blue sky.  The scent of a campfire and burning leaves in the air and pumpkins adorning doorsteps.  It is my favorite season and not just because of the bright bursts of color on the trees but also because it is a new fashion season.  Light and airy fabrics give way to thick tweeds and shearling, this year at least.  I flip through magazines and rip out pages pasting them to my bathroom door to give me inspiration through the season.  Make-up undergoes changes as well. I look for ways to incorporate the current fall's latest ideas on the cheap and what to splurge on.  It gives me a sense of renewal each time as I use what's hot with my classics.   Here's what I'm loving right now and you can too.

Nars Illuminator ($29)- I'm a sucker for the Neiman Marcus beauty event each fall and spring.  I stock up on my make-up basics each time and get a free bag stocked full of freebies to try out.  It's like Christmas!  This time a tube of Nars Illuminator in Orgasm was included.  The pinky-gold hue wakes up my face giving me a dewy glow that has people wondering how I look so alert with two kids under five and a six week old. Available at Sephora and Neiman Marcus and wherever Nars is sold.

For years I've been searching for the perfect shade of red lipstick. Lo and behold I found it at my grocery store a few weeks back.  Revlon's 'Really Red' ($7.99) in matte is a perfect middle red shade with blue undertones.  It lasts and brightens my teeth and whole look.  I feel so polished!  Speaking of polish, Revlon's 'Revlon Red' nail polish ($5) is also key this season.  Red lipstick and shiny red nails abound and look great with tailored classics like jeans and a white button-down shirt.  Think La Dolce Vita and leopard print too. Chanel's 'Vamp' another oldie but goodie is back.  I couldn't be more pleased.  I have never stopped loving this dark, sultry nail laquer.  Revlon is available at drugstores and grocery stores nationwide. Chanel product can be ordered online.

Old Navy Sliver Wedge boots are an answer to my black boot prayers.  No longer do I want the spike-heeled version.  OK, I lie. I covet the spike-heel, pointy toe version but it's not practical and if I want a pair of knee-high boots that I can wear and still chase my kids in or carry The Fifth Element and not break an ankle then these Old Navy boots are it.  At $39 they work for my budget and I love them. 

I found this Target Moto jacket (so huge this year!) last week. I tried it on as I still miss my cropped black leather jacket circa 1994 that I wore through high school and college.  As I placed this super-soft jacket on TD exclaimed in an awe-inspired hushed tone, "Mommy! You look super cool in that. You look like a spy!"  Um.. I'm a sucker again. A slave to fashion. I looked at the price tag and thought, "$29 and I can't go wrong!"  The detail is amazing on this piece.  Per usual Target rocks my world.  Available online and in regular and plus sizes.

I found these great ballet flats over at my friend Jessica's blog.  I desperately needed a new pair and these fit the bill.  The price was right and with an Amazon gift card I got myself a nice middle of the week present. 

In addition to these great, affordable finds I have also incorporated a pack of men's white v-neck tees to my wardrobe.  A pack of five set me back about ten bucks and they fit just as well now under a blazer and pair of skinny or 'weekend' jeans (an old pair I've recommissioned and rolled) as they did when I wore them with shorts and tights in high school.  Oh yeah, I wore that trend to death.  I wish I still could because dun, dun, daaaa! It's baaack!!  Throw in a few boat neck shirts that you can find every season at L.L. Bean, Land's End, Boden or Old Navy and you have a updated addition to your fall wardrobe.

Cheers!

Fun Find- Dior Show Mascara

I've said it before and I will say it again, if you are looking for a fantastic, hard-working mascara then Dior Show is it.  I have loved this mascara in it's rich black, velvety color since it debuted years ago and I go back to it quite often. 

Priced at $24 it might seem steep but I find it well worth it because it is waterproof, doesn't hurt my contact-wearing eyes and always looks fresh and never clumps.  If it starts to clump, it's old and you need to throw that tube away! 

Check it out here at Become and other Dior cosmetics for a bit of pampering. 

Disclaimer:  MPR was paid for this sponsored post.  Dior Show mascara has received rave reviews from MPR in the past. 

beauty ADDICTS Lash Galore Mascara

beauty ADDICTS has the motto "beauty made simple".  Now they have created Lash Galore ($18) mascara which is formulated with Pro Vitamin B5 and Silk Protein for great conditioning, length and definition. It is also buildable meaning that you can add more coats for more volume – without clumping or flaking.

Lash Galore is available in one shade and one shade only – Ultra Black.  beauty ADDICTS claims that this is the "one shade every woman can wear."  I suppose.  If you are looking for another color though because you have fair lashes and don't want to go so dark then this isn't a mascara for you.  I tried this mascara for two weeks and found that yes, you can easily add more volume and "build" your lashes even hours after applying your first coat.  It's a rich, deep black that coats well and adds length with ease.  However, I did notice that by mid-day my eyes had dark circles underneath them from smudging.  It didn't happen every time I used Lash Galore, but it did happen more often than I wanted.  I don't know why this happened only part of the time, maybe I added too much without letting it dry properly.  I don't know.  I kept trying and some days had great results with dark, long, thick lashes.

Lash Galore is available on the beauty ADDICTS website.  beauty ADDICTS has many other products including make-up brushes, accessories and all types of products and make-up for everyone. 

MPR Rating: Three Stars.

Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post.  All products received are for testing and review purposes only.  Opinions are my own.

MPR's Valentine's Day Round-up

That big, pink, puffy heart-filled day is just around the corner and if you are Hallmark or someone who actually enjoys Valentine's Day then you'll be happy to know that MPR does too.  I have always loved this red, special day. Yes, you can say 'I love you' all year, but it is nice to have a designated day where you can get creative, gussied up and find a gazillion ideas to make your Valetine's Day dreams come true, even if you do it all just for yourself.  Here are five things that are sure to make you feel your best this V-day.

Looking for a colorful berry-stained pout this Valentine's Day?  Then look no further than Mineral Essence lipstick ($16) and lip gloss ($18)!  Containing no harsh chemicals, parabens, talc, bismuth oxichloride, additives, oils or persatives.  This certified organic lip wear is antioxidant rich and comes in colors like Flirty Rose, Cranberry Spice, Pink Crush and Ripe Berry.   Both lines are available at Sears and Beauty 360.  (Pink and Berry lipsticks and gloss are shown.)

Beautyblenders ($28.95)- now in a limited edition just for Valentine's Day these bright pink elliptically-shaped make-up sponges allows you to get those hard-to-reach places like the sides of your nose and under your eyes.  Designed by Hollywood make-up artists, Rea Ann Silva and Veronica Lorenz, their texture is dreamy soft and the whole kit comes complete with ten single use packets of Beautycleanser, which will keep the blenders nice and clean.  No streaks and a perfect blend is what Beautyblenders is all about.  Beautyblenders make a great addition to your make-up collection or a nice gift for a sister, friend or mother.

eos (evolution of smooth) has the just the thing to make your lips soft and kissable. Available in Mint, Honeysuckle Honeydew and Summer Fruit, their lip balms ($3.29) smooth sphere is antioxidant-rich vitamin E, shea butter and jojoba oil.  It's 100% natural, certified organic, paraben-free and contains no petroleum, which makes me very happy.  It's soft, smooth and glides on without caking no matter how chapped your lips may be.    I'm addicted to mine and use it every day.  Pass them out by the handfuls to those you cherish.  eos lip balm is available at drugstores nationwide and online. 

Badgley Mischka Couture Scent ($48) in a chocolate brown velvet sachet is feminine sexy and has a "floriental" scent to it.  Airport safe and beautifully wrapped it is just perfect for tossing into your suitcase or handbag for a weekend getaway with someone you love.  This elixer is only slightly bigger than a lipstick too.  A beautiful blend of fruit, florals and musk. 

HOTmilk lingerie ($25-70) is a must-have for any mother-to-be whether it's her first or fourth child.  This New Zealand based company has just hit the U.S. market and it is sophisticated and hot.  Designed by Lisa Ebbing and Ange Crosbie, two young mothers, they created HOTmilk to empower woman during pregnancy and nursing and help them refocus on being and feeling feminine and sensual.  I have to agree.  While not something I am usually drawn during my two previous pregnancies I was simply delighted with the entire collection.  It's incredibly soft and comfortable too.  Underwire-free, made of modal cotton and European styling HOTmilk is fresh and practical all while being sexy.  There is a set and style for everyone too no matter what your size.  I adore my 'She Embraced the Moment' set because it's comfortable, true to size, beautifully styled and elegant.  Check out their viral video on YouTube for more proof of this amazing line.

That wraps up the Valentine's Day round-up here at MPR.  Hope you enjoyed it and it sparked some ideas for this season of love.  Happy Valentine's Day!

Disclaimer:  Products have been used by me.  No compensation was received. 

Sheer Cover Mineral Make-up

Ah, the land of infomercials. Throw in some celeb endorsement and a money-back guarantee and it seems like a gold mine waiting to happen. Do the products really work or is it all just a bunch of glossy hype?

I tried Sheer Cover ($29.95) make-up recently and here is what I found. The 100% mineral make-up is lightweight and has SPF protection, which always scores points in my book. I was sent a Sheer Cover shade finder sheet, which contains a bit of each foundation color. I am somewhere between a Frost and a Bisque depending on the time of year. You can easily blend two foundations to create your perfect color too. I followed the directions, applied the foundation in circular motions and was happy to note that the redness around my nose and chin disappeared entirely. My skin still felt light too. The make-up was not cakey or heavy. After wearing it all day, coverage was still largely intact as well.

What I like about Sheer Cover foundation is that it is free of talc and mineral oil. Those two are so drying for your skin, yet so many products carry it. It contains no fragrance, silicones, preservatives or chemical dyes. Like other mineral make-up, coverage is complete and the minerals deflect light, which helps to minimize your skins flaws or wrinkles. Sheer Coverage did this too.

However, I am a light make-up user for day-to-day events and after a week or two of use; I found it was almost too much for me. I like my freckles to shine through a bit and I missed seeing them as much as I did before. I found the Sheer Cover to do everything it said, as it covers quite well, but it was just a bit too much for me on a daily basis.

Sheer Cover has a good package deal at reasonable price ($29.95). The package includes: Two shades of mineral foundation, two shades of concealer, mineral mascara, cleanser and moisturizer. You can purchase Sheer Cover products online at their website.

MPR Rating:  Three Stars.

Disclaimer: MPR was not paid for this posting. Products were received and kept for testing purposes. The opinions in this review are solely my own.