Cheap Beauty...A ? for those of the femme persuation.

[Talon]

I'm a self-confessed drugstore beauty product junkie.
Don't get me wrong, there are certain things that you can only get in a dept. store, professional beauty supplier, or online..But there's not much else that can compare to the great deals, lack of saleslady pressure, and the lazy-dayz clothing that you can wear to the drugstore/chemist.

So, I'm curious..what are your fav beauty finds from your local drugstore..and why do you love them?

[Soft*Silver]

I swear by my sally henson (sp?) diamond nail polish. I love all the colors but esp love their pink colors.

I dont spend alot of money on myself. I have so many projects I pour what resources I have, into. chrissy has never complained, lol, about how I look. So I rely on good bargains that produce quality outcomes. I personally love Avon products for the skin and for makeup. I think their jewelry usually is overpriced and mass supplied so I dont buy any of that unless its significant to me. (like, anything with horses)

I use to spend a whole lotta money on lancome products. LOVE them but when I read in Consumer Reports that one of Avon's $6 face creams beat out Lancome's $50 one, I switched.

[VintageFemme]

I like a lot of Loreal as well as Revlon's products and since Loreal owns Lancome, I feel pretty good about their quality. I do subscribe to the school of thought though that with regards to make up & hair products, that you do indeed get what you pay for. Esp w/ hair products. Redken is my favourite brand for hair. I've yet to find anything comparable.

Maybelline's old fashioned $3.50 duo pack of eyebrow pencils are still my favourites though.

Good idea for a thread! Thanks.

[genghisfawn]

I have a huge heart-on for the Burt's Bees tinted lip glosses. If you get the Fig shade, no matter what your skin tone or ancestry, it looks good on anyone... seriously, anyone.

I've been finding Revlon glass nail files at Dollarama lately (Dollarama is very, very good to me.)

The DreamLumi Touché Highlighting concealer (with the little brush tip) by Maybelline beats the heck out of anything professional. I've bought Benefit, Estée Lauder and Clinique to try doing something about my terrible skin tone, and this stuff maims it all.

(Is it just me, or does Maybelline eye makeup in general beat the pants off everything else? Best Lash mascara goes on sale for like $3.99 at Shoppers and London Drugs all the time and it wipes the floor with the 3x the price competition.)

The Garnier caffeinated undereye concealer is awesome, too. Not impressed that you can only find it in light shades (especially since I go super-tan in the summer) but it helps me look less like I've been hit in the face with a truck and more like I've just had a little less sleep than usual. My undereye circles are hereditary, but this stuff is almost like you've got a wand and you've cast a glamour.

Aveeno lotion forever!

[VintageFemme]

Oh! I forgot =) Rimmel's Lash Accelerator has some kind of lash growth serum in it & it really works! I read about it and Loreal's Visible Lift foundation somewhere [I can't remember now] and how both products actually do what they say they do. And they do! Loreal's VL has retinol in it and that's what is proven to lessen fine lines and improve skin texture. Since I've been using it, I've seen a difference. I LOVE both of these products!

[TheMerryFairy]

Burts bees anything! I always feel fresh and energized.

[Sachita]

I have spent 1000's on expensive products throughout the years. I'm still pretty picky when it comes to perfume (Bob Mackie or Bulgari) and make-up, however I picked up a tub of Noxzema while on a beach trip. I've been using it to wash my face ever since. My skin feels amazing and never dried out.

[Gráinne]

I've used Maybelline mascara (in the pink wand) for...way too many years ;).

I can't often splurge on Lush products, but I've found good bath bombs for much less at the drugstore. Makes me feel all pampered just the same.

[Bleu]

TALON! My femme sister extraordinaire (and legionnaire)! Terrific thread!

I often get compliments on my skin and being 44 now I take great pride in keeping it looking good. But really, what I do is so simple and remarkably cheap! The key is consistency.
cheap cheap http://www.vegetarian-weight-loss-success.com/images/vegan_for_animals_chick.jpg cheap cheap

Clear Pore. I love this stuff...it retails for between $5 - 8 and can be used as a daily cleanser or as a facial mask. The stuff lasts forever too. I buy maybe three to four tubes a year! I use it mostly as a daily cleanser scrubbing it in then rinsing immediately. As far as cleansing mask use, I do this on high wind days in the desert which cakes on an extra layer of dirt. I apply it to my face at the beginning of my shower, do everything else, then by the end of my shower I rinse it completely. That is the extent of how long I leave it on in "mask" mode.
Warning:
The active ingredient in Clear Pore is benzoyl peroxide. Be careful if you get a lot of exposure to the sun when using it. Also, I use cheap white face cloths so my pretty sage colored towels don't get spot bleached with any accidental leftover product on my face.
http://pics.drugstore.com/prodimg/76497/220.jpg

Every third or fourth day I skip the Clear Pore cleanser and scrub with the Neutrogena Microdermabrasion System.
http://www.pharmapacks.com/product_images/d/839/1290785_1290785__27914_zoom.jpg
This handy little item retails for between $15 - 20 and the extra pads are a couple bucks for a pack of 12. The little blue disks are pre-loaded with soap and I scrub my face for about 3 mins total. I do not use anything else that day to clean my face with as it tends to be a little tender. Next day - back to the Clear Pore.

Umm...on a side note...this item can be used as an external vibrator when the exterior cap is removed. It's hard plastic and is completely washable so is easy and sanitary to use for either application. :blush:

Two birds, one inexpensive item, and noone suspects a darn thing...hell, yeah, bitches! ;)

PS: It's important to follow with a good moisturizer. I use L'Occitane Immortelle, ($62- 4.4 oz) but that's not so cheap therefore does not belong in this thread...HOWEVER one little pot of this stuff lasts me 6 months!

I spend less than $200 a YEAR in cleansing and moisturizing products for my face and neck. ShiZam!

[Beloved]

Most of my make-up I get from Sephora, because I have a few favorites from Stila (mostly). I don't have a ton of it so it's not that expensive.

I use any over the counter facial moisturizer with SPF 30. I have tried Neutrogena, Aveeno, and Olay and have liked them all. I also sometimes buy mascara from the drugstore, too. I just bought a L'Oreal one today that I've never tried.

I am also a fan of Burt's Bees tinted lip gloss.

[Ginger]

I've tried Lancome and other high-end mascaras, but keep returning to good old drugstore-sold, L'Oreal Voluminous waterproof mascara.

Also I've used humble Pond's cold cream since I was a girl, to remove eye makeup.

I love wandering through huge drugstores on my lunch hour. You never know what deals you'll find.

[Girl_On_Fire]

My two favorite beauty products are baking soda and coconut oil. Baking soda is great to exfoliate with and coconut oil is a good natural moisturizer for skin and hair. Oh, and I love my French clay mask and mineral make-up. I'm all-natural kind of femme. ;)

[Ginger]

Every third or fourth day I skip the Clear Pore cleanser and scrub with the Neutrogena Microdermabrasion System.
http://www.pharmapacks.com/product_images/d/839/1290785_1290785__27914_zoom.jpg
This handy little item retails for between $15 - 20 and the extra pads are a couple bucks for a pack of 12. The little blue disks are pre-loaded with soap and I scrub my face for about 3 mins total. I do not use anything else that day to clean my face with as it tends to be a little tender. Next day - back to the Clear Pore.




All good tips, and I've just excerpted this one. Thanks, Bleu. I've always wondering if those microdermabrasion things worked. I use Clinique exfoliating scrub but have thought about switching to another mode of scrubbing off the dead cells to make way for the new.

[*Anya*]

I use Dove sensitive skin on my face.

I like how it smells. My maternal grandmother always used Dove and it reminds me of her.

I also use a little Clinique beige twist foundation (when I remember to), I curl my eyelashes and I finish with a little Clinique mascara.

I'm good to go.

Clinique is not cheap but it lasts forever and I always time my purchase for when they give those little sample size "gift with purchase" deals.

[Dominique]

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xJPlq9aRM3E/ScSG-bzSTQI/AAAAAAAAAbw/SMV3epR513Q/s400/brushes.jpg
I've been using these ELF (eyes, lips face) brushes priced from $1 to $3 and availabe at Target or on line. They have the best eye lash curler too, also $1.

Another discovery is baby wipes. I fell in love with them when I worked for Fed Ex and couldn't stand my hands being dirty all of the time. Now, I use them to quickly remove my make up. Ultra cheap. No fuss, no ruining my hand towels. I also buy these at target.

[blush]

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xJPlq9aRM3E/ScSG-bzSTQI/AAAAAAAAAbw/SMV3epR513Q/s400/brushes.jpg
I've been using these ELF (eyes, lips face) brushes priced from $1 to $3 and availabe at Target or on line. They have the best eye lash curler too, also $1.

Another discovery is baby wipes. I fell in love with them when I worked for Fed Ex and couldn't stand my hands being dirty all of the time. Now, I use them to quickly remove my make up. Ultra cheap. No fuss, no ruining my hand towels. I also buy these at target.

I use baby wipes to remove eye makeup. Best idea ever! I also put a squirt of saline solution in my mascara to extend the life of it.

[Bleu]

...I also put a squirt of saline solution in my mascara to extend the life of it.

Brilliant!

That is thinking! :deepthoughts:

[Ginger]

Two people say they use baby wipes to remove makeup. I'm gonna try that! It wouldn't be as greasy as Pond's...

[TheMerryFairy]

Two people say they use baby wipes to remove makeup. I'm gonna try that! It wouldn't be as greasy as Pond's...

Baby wipes are great for makeup removal and clean up in general. It's mild for sensitive skin.

[TheMerryFairy]

I also frequently use Johnsons oatmeal & vanilla baby lotion on my skin. Smooth, not greasy, mild scent and a great moisturizer.

[Bèsame*]

A great body scrub...

Neutrogena sesame seed oil mixed with regular table salt. I use equal amounts of oil vs salt in the cup of my hand. Love it before I shave my legs. Use it on my feet as well. Leaves skin silky smooth:)

[Ginger]

A great body scrub...

Neutrogena sesame seed oil mixed with regular table salt. I use equal amounts of oil vs salt in the cup of my hand. Love it before I shave my legs. Use it on my feet as well. Leaves skin silky smooth:)


That is brilliant.

[always2late]

I've been trying to find some decent and affordable cruelty-free cosmetics. Any suggestions?

[Novelafemme]

A great body scrub...

Neutrogena sesame seed oil mixed with regular table salt. I use equal amounts of oil vs salt in the cup of my hand. Love it before I shave my legs. Use it on my feet as well. Leaves skin silky smooth:)

And in the winter when we get extra dry, try sugar instead of salt. :)

[Novelafemme]

I've been trying to find some decent and affordable cruelty-free cosmetics. Any suggestions?


http://ofracosmetics.com

Awesome company and equally awesome products!

[blush]

Brilliant!

That is thinking! :deepthoughts:

Or spending too much time on Pinterest...they do the thinking for me.

[Bleu]

And in the winter when we get extra dry, try sugar instead of salt. :)

Seriously? Sugar in winter instead of salt? BRILLIANT!

Or spending too much time on Pinterest...they do the thinking for me.

Honey, you brought the info here, so in my mind it is YOURS...forever! xoxo



I officially :heartbeat: this thread!

J'adore femme sisterhood!

[PinkieLee]

Hands down.... my favorite face wash! And you can't beat it for around $6 a bottle.

http://img1.targetimg1.com/wcsstore/TargetSAS//img/p/13/11/13112152_120903083000.jpg

I have nonexistant eyelashes, and my favorite mascara find is about $5 a tube, too.

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SWyau9vRb-A/TNjSR9aRToI/AAAAAAAAAA8/M0pR37GdI9c/s1600/maybelline-the-falsies-mascara.jpg

[cinnamongrrl]

I worked for a wonderful Italian lady while I was in SC...she had lovely skin and was in her 70s. She swore by Nivea in the blue jar. I have been using it ever since and I love it. I think I paid 4 something for the large jar at Walmart and its lasted me a long time. And I use it most every night.

I also use a daytime moisturizer (when I remember) with an SPF 15 at least. I get the store brand that is similar to Oil of Olay..same ingredients...much better price...

[lusciouskiwi]

Can't give anyone any feedback on good drugstore purchases, but Paula Begoun has some good info:

http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2012-08-17/features/sc-cons-0816-warren-shopping-drugstore-beauty-basi-20120821_1_sunscreen-drugstore-spf

http://www.paulaschoice.com/beautypedia-skin-care-reviews/best-products/

[Sparkle]

I don't buy much in the way of cosmetics or hair products in the drug stores because I find their mark up ridiculous, as ridiculous as the mark up in department stores.

I do most of my shopping for high quality beauty and hair products on ebay and usually save 50-70% buying them there... my Pureology shampoo and conditioner will cost me $90 for two 33oz bottles which will last for at least 10months (that amounts to less than $10/mo on shampoo and conditioner).

Buying on ebay isn't convenient for a quick, easy fix - it requires patience and searching out the best deals but I've found it saves me a ton of money while still allowing me the indulgence of high-end products.

Similarly the Redken volumizing hair products I would pay $15-20 for in the salon or the drugstore, I can get for $10 or less on ebay...
YSL Touche Eclat, the best highlighter pen on the market costs over $40 in the department store, but I can find for $12-16 on ebay...
Urban Decay palettes that run $50+ I can find for $25, on average....
Benefit lipsticks cost $22 per tube, I can find them on ebay for $10 or less...

And if I do enough deal searching, I can buy most of these products with no shipping charges.

One drugstore item I LOVE is: Witch hazel, an all-natural astringent/toner. A bottle of Clinique's toner/clarifying lotion costs $35 or more, and contains mostly witch hazel. Thayers all natural remedies witch hazel (http://www.drugstore.com/thayers-lemon-witch-hazel-with-organic-aloe-vera-formula-astringent/qxp227050?catid=182998) costs $8 and IMO works better, and it can be found in most drug stores, grocery stores or places like walmart/target.

Oooh and Loreal does a wonderful line of eyeshadows called "HIP" High Intensity Pigments. I prefer the loose eyeshadow called "HIP Shocking Shadow Pigments (http://www.lorealparisusa.com/_us/_en/default.aspx#/?page=top{userdata//d+d//|diagnostic|main:pdp//objectid+Cos41h_3//{pdp_tab:pdp_overview//objectid+Cos41h_3//}|media:_blank|nav|overlay:_blank})" that comes in a small pot. This is "going out/dressing up" eyeshadow it has an intense bold concentration of colour. I love the two shades I have. I've found it on ebay and amazon for about $5, I think that is about half of what I've paid in a drug store. *great product and lasts forever!!!

[VintageFemme]

I worked for a wonderful Italian lady while I was in SC...she had lovely skin and was in her 70s. She swore by Nivea in the blue jar. I have been using it ever since and I love it. I think I paid 4 something for the large jar at Walmart and its lasted me a long time. And I use it most every night.

I also use a daytime moisturizer (when I remember) with an SPF 15 at least. I get the store brand that is similar to Oil of Olay..same ingredients...much better price...

I love Nivea for all over everything! In the blue jar of course =) They have a tiny little blue tin too that's perfect for your handbag, it's like .99 or something and lasts forever also.

[Talon]

I swear by my sally henson (sp?) diamond nail polish. I love all the colors but esp love their pink colors.

I dont spend alot of money on myself. I have so many projects I pour what resources I have, into. chrissy has never complained, lol, about how I look. So I rely on good bargains that produce quality outcomes. I personally love Avon products for the skin and for makeup. I think their jewelry usually is overpriced and mass supplied so I dont buy any of that unless its significant to me. (like, anything with horses)

I use to spend a whole lotta money on lancome products. LOVE them but when I read in Consumer Reports that one of Avon's $6 face creams beat out Lancome's $50 one, I switched.

>Love the "anything w/horses" comment btw. I definitely believe that with face creams, as well...I love the Olay Regenerist line for that reason.

[Talon]

I like a lot of Loreal as well as Revlon's products and since Loreal owns Lancome, I feel pretty good about their quality. I do subscribe to the school of thought though that with regards to make up & hair products, that you do indeed get what you pay for. Esp w/ hair products. Redken is my favourite brand for hair. I've yet to find anything comparable.

Maybelline's old fashioned $3.50 duo pack of eyebrow pencils are still my favourites though.

Good idea for a thread! Thanks.

I love Redken, too. I love their All Soft line, and the anti-snap leave-in, as well as the CAT restructurizer. I think that it's about doing your research on products...like most eye/eyebrow pencils are made in Germany..so why pay more? It's just being an intelligent consumer.

[Soft*Silver]

I totally forgot I use Oil of Olay Regenerist as well. I dont use one kind all the time. I am a firm believer that my skin, hair and teeth all get use to one brand and then it needs a change.

I have a local lady who makes and sells natural soaps and lotions and scrubs and bath balls. Her sugar scrubs are to die for! Now, they are seriously natural so there is nothing added that keeps it from clumping so you have to work some in the palm of your hand to make the magic, but the result is incredible on my face! I get dried out so easily so I never ever ever use soap on my face. NEVER. I use plain water. I cant even use make up remover! But her sugar scrub does it for me! It leaves me feeling clean and does not dry me out at all. She has me sold.

I also use her soaps. I have tried other natural soaps and they either dont lather well, or they dissolve too quickly or they dry out my skin or they lose their smell. Her one bar of nag champa lasted me 4 months! And it never lost its smell nor did it dry me out. And I loved the low lather...just enough to make it fun in the shower! LOL.

Imma lucky gal....

[Talon]

I have a huge heart-on for the Burt's Bees tinted lip glosses. If you get the Fig shade, no matter what your skin tone or ancestry, it looks good on anyone... seriously, anyone.

>>>*making a note to try the Fig shade*

I've been finding Revlon glass nail files at Dollarama lately (Dollarama is very, very good to me.)

>>I wonder if they would carry those at my local Dollar Tree?

The DreamLumi Touché Highlighting concealer (with the little brush tip) by Maybelline beats the heck out of anything professional. I've bought Benefit, Estée Lauder and Clinique to try doing something about my terrible skin tone, and this stuff maims it all.

>>Yes, those DreamLumi products are excellent. I love the BB cream! It's so lightweight yet leaves your complexion nice, smooth, and even.

(Is it just me, or does Maybelline eye makeup in general beat the pants off everything else? Best Lash mascara goes on sale for like $3.99 at Shoppers and London Drugs all the time and it wipes the floor with the 3x the price competition.)

>>They have up'ed their game on their eye products..I have noticed that too.
I also LOVE Covergirl LashBlast mascara...it's the best I've tried, even in comparison with the dept. store brands. And they even have a 24hour version that does not flake or give you racoon-eyes at the end of the day.

The Garnier caffeinated undereye concealer is awesome, too. Not impressed that you can only find it in light shades (especially since I go super-tan in the summer) but it helps me look less like I've been hit in the face with a truck and more like I've just had a little less sleep than usual. My undereye circles are hereditary, but this stuff is almost like you've got a wand and you've cast a glamour.

>>Must try this! I've read that eye creams enriched with caffeine are really great for puffiness around the eyes.

Aveeno lotion forever!

>>Have you tried the Aveeno face lotion w/ feverfew?

[Talon]

Oh! I forgot =) Rimmel's Lash Accelerator has some kind of lash growth serum in it & it really works! I read about it and Loreal's Visible Lift foundation somewhere [I can't remember now] and how both products actually do what they say they do. And they do! Loreal's VL has retinol in it and that's what is proven to lessen fine lines and improve skin texture. Since I've been using it, I've seen a difference. I LOVE both of these products!


>>That's interesting...I've tried the Loreal lash serum..and although it conditioned my lashes, I didn't really notice any increased fullness or length.
I do like the idea of the serum being in the mascara...2for1. The same with Visible Lift...I love products that multi-task, don't you?

[Talon]

Burts bees anything! I always feel fresh and energized.

>>Yes. And how it's a natural product...a lot less chemicals involved.

[Talon]

I have spent 1000's on expensive products throughout the years. I'm still pretty picky when it comes to perfume (Bob Mackie or Bulgari) and make-up, however I picked up a tub of Noxzema while on a beach trip. I've been using it to wash my face ever since. My skin feels amazing and never dried out.


>>I like your choices of perfume, Sachita.
Noxema is a staple for me. Great for removing make-up...and nothing works better for soothing a sunburn. It just leaves your skin feeling soft, clean, cool, and refreshed.

[Talon]

I've used Maybelline mascara (in the pink wand) for...way too many years ;).

>>Oh yes, it's a fav among make-up artists.

I can't often splurge on Lush products, but I've found good bath bombs for much less at the drugstore. Makes me feel all pampered just the same.

>>I'm a sucker for Lush products. They used to make a perfume oil that I wore religously for several years called "Karma". Sadly, they discontinued it and I wasn't aware that they had, so I used it all up and couldn't take it in to have it recreated. So, hopefully they'll bring it back at some point.

[Talon]

TALON! My femme sister extraordinaire (and legionnaire)! Terrific thread!

>>*chuckle*...Thank you, Bleu-by-you..

I often get compliments on my skin and being 44 now I take great pride in keeping it looking good. But really, what I do is so simple and remarkably cheap! The key is consistency.
cheap cheap http://www.vegetarian-weight-loss-success.com/images/vegan_for_animals_chick.jpg cheap cheap

>>Yes, darling it certainly is.

Clear Pore. I love this stuff...it retails for between $5 - 8 and can be used as a daily cleanser or as a facial mask. The stuff lasts forever too. I buy maybe three to four tubes a year! I use it mostly as a daily cleanser scrubbing it in then rinsing immediately. As far as cleansing mask use, I do this on high wind days in the desert which cakes on an extra layer of dirt. I apply it to my face at the beginning of my shower, do everything else, then by the end of my shower I rinse it completely. That is the extent of how long I leave it on in "mask" mode.
Warning:
The active ingredient in Clear Pore is benzoyl peroxide. Be careful if you get a lot of exposure to the sun when using it. Also, I use cheap white face cloths so my pretty sage colored towels don't get spot bleached with any accidental leftover product on my face.
http://pics.drugstore.com/prodimg/76497/220.jpg

>>This *is* a great product..and comes highly recommended by Dermatologists. I have searched for this product, and thought that it had been discontinued. Where have you found it?

Every third or fourth day I skip the Clear Pore cleanser and scrub with the Neutrogena Microdermabrasion System.
http://www.pharmapacks.com/product_images/d/839/1290785_1290785__27914_zoom.jpg
This handy little item retails for between $15 - 20 and the extra pads are a couple bucks for a pack of 12. The little blue disks are pre-loaded with soap and I scrub my face for about 3 mins total. I do not use anything else that day to clean my face with as it tends to be a little tender. Next day - back to the Clear Pore.

>>I used to use the microdermabrasion system..it does work well for dull and lifeless skin..gives you a nice glow.

Umm...on a side note...this item can be used as an external vibrator when the exterior cap is removed. It's hard plastic and is completely washable so is easy and sanitary to use for either application. :blush:

>>Someone's a very naughty girl....go sit in the naughty chair.

Two birds, one inexpensive item, and noone suspects a darn thing...hell, yeah, bitches! ;)

>>>Gives new meaning to multi-tasking.

PS: It's important to follow with a good moisturizer. I use L'Occitane Immortelle, ($62- 4.4 oz) but that's not so cheap therefore does not belong in this thread...HOWEVER one little pot of this stuff lasts me 6 months!

>>>Yep...I do that w/creme de la mer.

I spend less than $200 a YEAR in cleansing and moisturizing products for my face and neck. ShiZam!

>>Go on with yer bad self...:shocking:

[Talon]

Most of my make-up I get from Sephora, because I have a few favorites from Stila (mostly). I don't have a ton of it so it's not that expensive.

>>Sephora is addictive. But, if you buy certain staple products that you use often and really love, I think it's totally worth it. You can't really put a price on feeling good.

I use any over the counter facial moisturizer with SPF 30. I have tried Neutrogena, Aveeno, and Olay and have liked them all. I also sometimes buy mascara from the drugstore, too. I just bought a L'Oreal one today that I've never tried.

>>>All of these I like, too. I have never spent a lot on daily face lotions w/spf. There really is just no need to, in my opinion.

I am also a fan of Burt's Bees tinted lip gloss.

>>I've only used the Badger Balm, the Lavender sleep balm, and the regular lip balm...but since I keep hearing about their tinted lip glosses, I will have to try. Thanks.

[Talon]

I've tried Lancome and other high-end mascaras, but keep returning to good old drugstore-sold, L'Oreal Voluminous waterproof mascara.

>>>This was my fav in high school...makes lashes look really full.

Also I've used humble Pond's cold cream since I was a girl, to remove eye makeup.

>> I use this all over my face to remove make-up before I cleanse, and my skin never feels tight or dry after.

I love wandering through huge drugstores on my lunch hour. You never know what deals you'll find.

>>>Aint' it fun though?...NYC has THE BEST DRUGSTORES..floors of low-end to the highest end products...Dangerous.

[Talon]

My two favorite beauty products are baking soda and coconut oil. Baking soda is great to exfoliate with and coconut oil is a good natural moisturizer for skin and hair. Oh, and I love my French clay mask and mineral make-up. I'm all-natural kind of femme. ;)

>>Au Naturelle is always a good thing.

>>I didn't know that you could use baking soda as an exfoliator..thanks for the tip, GOF. I love coconut oil...smells much better than olive oil...and works just as good, if not better...I bet you could make your own lip balm w/ it, as well...hmmmm...:deepthoughts:

>>I also use mineral make-up...It just gives a sheer veil over the skin..I love it!

[Talon]

I use Dove sensitive skin on my face.

I like how it smells. My maternal grandmother always used Dove and it reminds me of her.

>>This is sweet. Isn't it funny how we'll use a certain product because it reminds us of a happy time in our lives? I am this way with certain scents...it truly has a transporting effect, at least for me it does...I go right back to the time and place.

I also use a little Clinique beige twist foundation (when I remember to), I curl my eyelashes and I finish with a little Clinique mascara.

>>I like their face washes...they never irritate.

I'm good to go.

Clinique is not cheap but it lasts forever and I always time my purchase for when they give those little sample size "gift with purchase" deals.

>>I love getting those.

[Talon]

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xJPlq9aRM3E/ScSG-bzSTQI/AAAAAAAAAbw/SMV3epR513Q/s400/brushes.jpg
I've been using these ELF (eyes, lips face) brushes priced from $1 to $3 and availabe at Target or on line. They have the best eye lash curler too, also $1.

>>These are a hidden gem. I really like their eyeshadows and their lip glosses. I didn't know about their eyelash curler, though..Thank you.

Another discovery is baby wipes. I fell in love with them when I worked for Fed Ex and couldn't stand my hands being dirty all of the time. Now, I use them to quickly remove my make up. Ultra cheap. No fuss, no ruining my hand towels. I also buy these at target.

>>Aren't they great? I keep them in my bag, because they work so well at removing flaking eyeshadow or mascara from under the eyes, while you're on the go. And they don't leave a greasy residue behind.

[ahk]

I don't buy much in the way of cosmetics or hair products in the drug stores because I find their mark up ridiculous, as ridiculous as the mark up in department stores.

I do most of my shopping for high quality beauty and hair products on ebay and usually save 50-70% buying them there... my Pureology shampoo and conditioner will cost me $90 for two 33oz bottles which will last for at least 10months (that amounts to less than $10/mo on shampoo and conditioner).

Buying on ebay isn't convenient for a quick, easy fix - it requires patience and searching out the best deals but I've found it saves me a ton of money while still allowing me the indulgence of high-end products.

Similarly the Redken volumizing hair products I would pay $15-20 for in the salon or the drugstore, I can get for $10 or less on ebay...
YSL Touche Eclat, the best highlighter pen on the market costs over $40 in the department store, but I can find for $12-16 on ebay...
Urban Decay palettes that run $50+ I can find for $25, on average....
Benefit lipsticks cost $22 per tube, I can find them on ebay for $10 or less...

And if I do enough deal searching, I can buy most of these products with no shipping charges.

One drugstore item I LOVE is: Witch hazel, an all-natural astringent/toner. A bottle of Clinique's toner/clarifying lotion costs $35 or more, and contains mostly witch hazel. Thayers all natural remedies witch hazel (http://www.drugstore.com/thayers-lemon-witch-hazel-with-organic-aloe-vera-formula-astringent/qxp227050?catid=182998) costs $8 and IMO works better, and it can be found in most drug stores, grocery stores or places like walmart/target.

Oooh and Loreal does a wonderful line of eyeshadows called "HIP" High Intensity Pigments. I prefer the loose eyeshadow called "HIP Shocking Shadow Pigments (http://www.lorealparisusa.com/_us/_en/default.aspx#/?page=top{userdata//d+d//|diagnostic|main:pdp//objectid+Cos41h_3//{pdp_tab:pdp_overview//objectid+Cos41h_3//}|media:_blank|nav|overlay:_blank})" that comes in a small pot. This is "going out/dressing up" eyeshadow it has an intense bold concentration of colour. I love the two shades I have. I've found it on ebay and amazon for about $5, I think that is about half of what I've paid in a drug store. *great product and lasts forever!!!

I'm not a femme-- but I love this thread too. Only because of my wife-- I purchase about .75 of her makeup -- so these tips are simply amazing. I would of never thought of ebay for make up. Sheesh.

>>I've only used the Badger Balm, the Lavender sleep balm, and the regular lip balm...but since I keep hearing about their tinted lip glosses, I will have to try. Thanks.

I, too, love badger-- over Burts. I use to be a Burts fan but had noticed that their products changed, not sure how, but they did-- then later to find that Clorox bought them.

Since I'm a boy-- can I post here too? :fastdraq:

[Talon]

I use baby wipes to remove eye makeup. Best idea ever! I also put a squirt of saline solution in my mascara to extend the life of it.

>>Yeah it is.

>>Ohhh..that's a good tip..thanks blush.

[Talon]

I also frequently use Johnsons oatmeal & vanilla baby lotion on my skin. Smooth, not greasy, mild scent and a great moisturizer.


>> Yes, I love the J&J Lavender bedtime baby wash, lotion, and shampoo...I use it right before I go to bed when I've had a hard day.

[julieisafemme]

What a fun thread! I am very scent averse so I look for things that don't have perfume. I love Aveeno body wash and lotion. Kiehls makes the only body scrub that works for me. It is the soy one.

I recently tried some drug store mascara and still for me the only thing that works is Dior Show. My main gripe is sunscreen. I have tried every kind and they all make me greasy. I am in the market for a good foundation for oily skin. Right now I am using Laura Mercier Tinted Foundation. I like the Smashbox Primer.

[Talon]

A great body scrub...

Neutrogena sesame seed oil mixed with regular table salt. I use equal amounts of oil vs salt in the cup of my hand. Love it before I shave my legs. Use it on my feet as well. Leaves skin silky smooth:)

>>>I love that body oil..especially in winter when your skin gets dry! I also really love the idea of adding salt to it as an exfoliator...you get the moisture along with the exfoliating...Smart.

[Sparkle]

What a fun thread! I am very scent averse so I look for things that don't have perfume. I love Aveeno body wash and lotion. Kiehls makes the only body scrub that works for me. It is the soy one.

I recently tried some drug store mascara and still for me the only thing that works is Dior Show. My main gripe is sunscreen. I have tried every kind and they all make me greasy. I am in the market for a good foundation for oily skin. Right now I am using Laura Mercier Tinted Foundation. I like the Smashbox Primer.

I love Kiehls products!

I have very fair, oily and sensitive skin - I have the same problem with sunscreen, high-end or drugstore, they always feel heavy and leave my skin feeling greasy.

As to foundations, I don't use a standard liquid foundation because I find them too heavy, I use a shisheido powder foundation (http://www.shiseido.com/foundation/makeup-face-foundation,en_US,sc.html) and put it on very lightly with a big round brush. I also use YSL touche eclat highlighter (#1) for under my eyes.

[Talon]

I've been trying to find some decent and affordable cruelty-free cosmetics. Any suggestions?


>>One rule of thumb that I use in this regard, is looking for the "Leaping Bunny" logo stamped on any cosmetic, personal care item, or household product. This ensures that the product has been certified cruelty-free by the Coalition For Consumer Information On Cosmetics. This is internationally recognized. This will make it easy for you to find an array of different products that are cruelty-free.

[Talon]

And in the winter when we get extra dry, try sugar instead of salt. :)

>>Exactly..good idea, Novelafemme.

[Talon]

I worked for a wonderful Italian lady while I was in SC...she had lovely skin and was in her 70s. She swore by Nivea in the blue jar. I have been using it ever since and I love it. I think I paid 4 something for the large jar at Walmart and its lasted me a long time. And I use it most every night.

>>Europeans still use Nivea. It's one of Europe's best selling lines.

I also use a daytime moisturizer (when I remember) with an SPF 15 at least. I get the store brand that is similar to Oil of Olay..same ingredients...much better price...

>>I love when stores do that.

[Talon]

I don't buy much in the way of cosmetics or hair products in the drug stores because I find their mark up ridiculous, as ridiculous as the mark up in department stores.

I do most of my shopping for high quality beauty and hair products on ebay and usually save 50-70% buying them there... my Pureology shampoo and conditioner will cost me $90 for two 33oz bottles which will last for at least 10months (that amounts to less than $10/mo on shampoo and conditioner).

>>Ebay is great for finding hard-to-find, or not-available- in-your-area products...and it's much less expensive.

Buying on ebay isn't convenient for a quick, easy fix - it requires patience and searching out the best deals but I've found it saves me a ton of money while still allowing me the indulgence of high-end products.

>>I actually find it faster than other forms of shopping...but it's not always a better deal on ebay, I've found. So, you want to do your research locally, first.

Similarly the Redken volumizing hair products I would pay $15-20 for in the salon or the drugstore, I can get for $10 or less on ebay...
YSL Touche Eclat, the best highlighter pen on the market costs over $40 in the department store, but I can find for $12-16 on ebay...
Urban Decay palettes that run $50+ I can find for $25, on average....
Benefit lipsticks cost $22 per tube, I can find them on ebay for $10 or less...

And if I do enough deal searching, I can buy most of these products with no shipping charges.

One drugstore item I LOVE is: Witch hazel, an all-natural astringent/toner. A bottle of Clinique's toner/clarifying lotion costs $35 or more, and contains mostly witch hazel. Thayers all natural remedies witch hazel (http://www.drugstore.com/thayers-lemon-witch-hazel-with-organic-aloe-vera-formula-astringent/qxp227050?catid=182998) costs $8 and IMO works better, and it can be found in most drug stores, grocery stores or places like walmart/target.

Oooh and Loreal does a wonderful line of eyeshadows called "HIP" High Intensity Pigments. I prefer the loose eyeshadow called "HIP Shocking Shadow Pigments (http://www.lorealparisusa.com/_us/_en/default.aspx#/?page=top{userdata//d+d//|diagnostic|main:pdp//objectid+Cos41h_3//{pdp_tab:pdp_overview//objectid+Cos41h_3//}|media:_blank|nav|overlay:_blank})" that comes in a small pot. This is "going out/dressing up" eyeshadow it has an intense bold concentration of colour. I love the two shades I have. I've found it on ebay and amazon for about $5, I think that is about half of what I've paid in a drug store. *great product and lasts forever!!!

>>I love the Loreal HIP products. They were the first "drugstore brand" to offer densely pigmented eyecolour...that was similar to MAC, but at a much lower price.

[Talon]

I'm not a femme-- but I love this thread too. Only because of my wife-- I purchase about .75 of her makeup -- so these tips are simply amazing. I would of never thought of ebay for make up. Sheesh.

>>>Lucky girl. Aren't they, though? These women are killing it!



I, too, love badger-- over Burts. I use to be a Burts fan but had noticed that their products changed, not sure how, but they did-- then later to find that Clorox bought them.

>>>Yowza...I didn't know that.
Isn't the badger balm *AMAZING* for your hands in the winter?

Since I'm a boy-- can I post here too? :fastdraq:

*chuckle*

Well, of course you may. We do not discriminate around here.

[falloutmk]

I love Jesse's girl cosmetics especially their eyeshadow palettes in behind blue eyes (http://www.jessesgirlcosmetics.com/products/view/320) colors and earth hues in the palette brown eyed girl. (http://www.jessesgirlcosmetics.com/products/view/319). I like them because of the colors they are available in and how smoothly the eyeshadow goes on :)

[Talon]

What a fun thread! I am very scent averse so I look for things that don't have perfume. I love Aveeno body wash and lotion. Kiehls makes the only body scrub that works for me. It is the soy one.

>>I really like Kiehl's, also. I keep a ready stock of the lip balm #1...and the Silkgroom for hair styling. I like how they don't change their formulations..they're very consistent.

I recently tried some drug store mascara and still for me the only thing that works is Dior Show. My main gripe is sunscreen. I have tried every kind and they all make me greasy. I am in the market for a good foundation for oily skin. Right now I am using Laura Mercier Tinted Foundation. I like the Smashbox Primer.

>>You gotta do ultimately what works the best for you.
Have you thought about using a face-powder sunscreen? Don't quote me, but I believe that Phillip Thomas Roth has one that is a spf30, that you can get at Sephora. And Physicians Formula has a compact pressed powder as well as a bronzer, that's an spf50 at drugstores.

>>I use Laura Mercier wooden make-up brushes...expensive, but they last.
I also like her Secret Camoflauge concealer. I've also found that you can find really high-quality brushes at art-supply stores...for a fraction of the cost. They also carry small paint pallets for colour-mixing foundation, concealer, lip colour..ect.

[Talon]

I love Jesse's girl cosmetics especially their eyeshadow palettes in behind blue eyes (http://www.jessesgirlcosmetics.com/products/view/320) colors and earth hues in the palette brown eyed girl. (http://www.jessesgirlcosmetics.com/products/view/319). I like them because of the colors they are available in and how smoothly the eyeshadow goes on :)


>>The Jesse's girl eyeshadow pallets are really good...I love the greens!
And when the colours are customized to your particular eye colour..it's foolproof, and you learn what are the most flattering shades to accentuate your eyes, too.

[Talon]

I'm sorry that you have to go through all of my replies, lovelies...But I wanted to be a good steward of the thread, and respond to all of you individually.

Thank you so much for all of your responses! I'm thouroughly enjoying hearing from everyone. And I hope you're all enjoying the thread, too.

[julieisafemme]

>>You gotta do ultimately what works the best for you.
Have you thought about using a face-powder sunscreen? Don't quote me, but I believe that Phillip Thomas Roth has one that is a spf30, that you can get at Sephora. And Physicians Formula has a compact pressed powder as well as a bronzer, that's an spf50 at drugstores.

>>I use Laura Mercier wooden make-up brushes...expensive, but they last.
I also like her Secret Camoflauge concealer. I've also found that you can find really high-quality brushes at art-supply stores...for a fraction of the cost. They also carry small paint pallets for colour-mixing foundation, concealer, lip colour..ect.

I did try the powdered sunscreen and it was a bust. It was too drying. I have melasma leftover from pregnancy on my driving side of my cheek and so bronzer sometimes looks funny. What I really need are laser treatments but there is no budget for that!

[Talon]

I did try the powdered sunscreen and it was a bust. It was too drying. I have melasma leftover from pregnancy on my driving side of my cheek and so bronzer sometimes looks funny. What I really need are laser treatments but there is no budget for that!


Now I'm curious. Let me see if I can do a little research on this, and come up with some other viable options for you.

[MsM]

Urban Decay palettes that run $50+ I can find for $25, on average....

Seriously? That's amazing! I'm a slut for Urban Decay makeup, but always bemoan the costs. My gf got me the vice palette for xmas (YAYAYAYAY) and I just restocked on my base colors, but I'm gonna check ebay for the next buy.

[Femminator]

I love to stop by the Drug Store and find makeup deals. My wife always asks me what makeup I am getting now when I say I have to stop at Walgreens or CVS! LOL LOL

I love Loreal Volumnous mascara, Carbon Black, my absolute favorite. I have used just about everything else in between, but I return time and time again to Loreal.(my fav expensive brand is Benefit Bad Gal lashes)

Mabeline Drama Eyes Gel Eyeliner in Aubergine. Not too many gel liners make this color, and I love that it goes on like a dream, with their tiny brush and does not pull at all on my eyelid.

I use all ELF makeup brushes, they work great and are cheap!

Wet and Wild lip glosses, very affordable and they come in so many colors. They stay on for a while and they don't test on animals, or use lead in their red colors like many of the higher end lipsticks and glosses do.

Garnier Beauty Balm, it is not greasy, or thick and lasts all day long.

[blush]

I recently tried some drug store mascara and still for me the only thing that works is Dior Show. My main gripe is sunscreen. I have tried every kind and they all make me greasy. I am in the market for a good foundation for oily skin. Right now I am using Laura Mercier Tinted Foundation. I like the Smashbox Primer.

Me too. I used Maybelline Professional for years, but Dior doesn't get lumpy or weird.

[LaneyDoll]

My fave drugstore find is...

Andrea ModLash eyelashes!

http://i.ebayimg.com/t/LOT-20-PAIRS-ANDREA-MODLASH-False-Eyelashes-Fake-Lashes-Black-Lash-Eyelash-/05/!B9+7++QB2k~$(KGrHqIOKo4Ey+jCw8O(BM7YLWn20!~~0_35. JPG

Being a contact lenses wearer, I hate to use mascara. So, I learned how to apply the fabulous fakes, blend them correctly and my eyes always look great. And at the end of the night, they are sooooo much easier to remove than mascara is.

In all of my pics here, I have on fake eyelashes. The vampire pic has Halloween lashes but I swear by the Andrea adhesive. I refuse to use anything else.

:sparklyheart:

[Talon]

I love to stop by the Drug Store and find makeup deals. My wife always asks me what makeup I am getting now when I say I have to stop at Walgreens or CVS! LOL LOL

>>>It's okay..they just don't understand>>*chuckle*

I love Loreal Volumnous mascara, Carbon Black, my absolute favorite. I have used just about everything else in between, but I return time and time again to Loreal.(my fav expensive brand is Benefit Bad Gal lashes)

>>Does this one get under your eyes at the end of the day? Just curious.

Mabeline Drama Eyes Gel Eyeliner in Aubergine. Not too many gel liners make this color, and I love that it goes on like a dream, with their tiny brush and does not pull at all on my eyelid.

>>I like this one too, I wear the "Saphire" shade.

I use all ELF makeup brushes, they work great and are cheap!

>>Haven't tried those...where do you get them? I'm thinking those would be great for travel, instead of taking the expensive ones..hmmm.

Wet and Wild lip glosses, very affordable and they come in so many colors. They stay on for a while and they don't test on animals, or use lead in their red colors like many of the higher end lipsticks and glosses do.

>>>They carry a lipliner pencil (#666) that I stock up on...for 99 cents a pop, you really can't go wrong...it's a beigy-pink color, that's really versatile with many shades of lipcolour...or even used alone to line and fill-in lips, and then just add some lip balm or gloss.

Garnier Beauty Balm, it is not greasy, or thick and lasts all day long.

>>>I love these new BB creams! They've been using these in Asia for a long time. I've yet to try this one...how do you thing it would layer over a sheer sunscreen?

[Talon]

My fave drugstore find is...

Andrea ModLash eyelashes!

http://i.ebayimg.com/t/LOT-20-PAIRS-ANDREA-MODLASH-False-Eyelashes-Fake-Lashes-Black-Lash-Eyelash-/05/!B9+7++QB2k~$(KGrHqIOKo4Ey+jCw8O(BM7YLWn20!~~0_35. JPG

Being a contact lenses wearer, I hate to use mascara. So, I learned how to apply the fabulous fakes, blend them correctly and my eyes always look great. And at the end of the night, they are sooooo much easier to remove than mascara is.

In all of my pics here, I have on fake eyelashes. The vampire pic has Halloween lashes but I swear by the Andrea adhesive. I refuse to use anything else.

:sparklyheart:



>>>Do you use the adhesive remover?

>>>They look great Laney!>>> :eyebat:

[Femminator]

>>>I love these new BB creams! They've been using these in Asia for a long time. I've yet to try this one...how do you thing it would layer over a sheer sunscreen?

This one has Sunscreen in it, but I usually use a light one anyhow under it for extra protection. It works really well for me. I have oily skin, so finding something that does not add to it, is a bonus for me. You have to read lables because several of the BBs do not have sunscreen in them, like the Loreal one. Garnier does so that is the one I stay with.


I also just went to Walmarts, and picked up some Hard Candy lash Primer. It is suppost to build your lashes so they are thicker and longer, before you put on Mascara. I will give it a try tomarrow and let everyone know if it is worth it!

[G Snap!]

Great stuff! There are a few things I gotta try now...

My criteria for most of my cosmetics & personal care stuff is it is 1) readily available (i.e. drugstore) 2) fragrance-free and 3) under $20. This narrows down the choices... And if I have a coupon, I am most happy!

I am a big Cetaphil fan, so most days it's their gentle face wash and moisturizing cream. I use Olay's regenerist serum (fragrance free) as a treatment to make sure I'm putting something good on my face.

I am not a big makeup wearer, and will break out the little bit of Clinique I have for a special occasion, but will not leave the house without concealer. My favorite is the Covergirl & olay simply ageless concealer. You either love of hate it...
My most expensive makeup item is Smashbox Halo. I will cry when it is gone. It is like $60 but my skin is super dry and I love how it wears. I want to try drugstore powder foundations that are supposed to be for dry skin but I have had a hard time getting the right shade as you can't try anything, so I end up not getting any. Any suggestions out there?

I have a bad habit of getting bored with what I'm using and switching around to other stuff, but I'm getting better about that. I always try to get stuff on sale with a coupon, or if it's mall store (like clinique) get stuff when they have gifts.

I am still searching for a daily facial sunscreen. I want the above (readily available, fragrance free, reasonably priced) for dry skin and no chemical sunscreen. And doesn't make my skin all shiny or feeling like I have a mask on. The few I have found are either super expensive, too drying, or water-resistant and wear horribly.

[Sev]

Two people say they use baby wipes to remove makeup. I'm gonna try that! It wouldn't be as greasy as Pond's...

I use to use make-up wipes until I was told that they actually dry out your skin and cause more spots. I've gone back to using Clarins. Some cheaper brands are tested on animals. I believe Lancome are still testing on animals. I use Barry M and Rimmel as well as L'Oreal and Maybeline

[Words]

I did try the powdered sunscreen and it was a bust. It was too drying. I have melasma leftover from pregnancy on my driving side of my cheek and so bronzer sometimes looks funny. What I really need are laser treatments but there is no budget for that!

Julie,

I'd think twice about the laser treatments if I were you. I recently had IPL treatment on some red veins on my upper chest (cheap and very effective:)) but whilst chatting to the beautician, she happened to mention that IPL is not recommended for melasma. In fact, according to what she said and what I've read since, it can actually make it worse.

If, on the other hand, you (or anyone else) are suffering from those horrible little red veins - in my case, due to sun exposure - then I throughly recommend IPL. I had just one treatment at a cost of around $60 and poof, they were gone. I'd also recommend IPL for permanent hair removal - that was far more costly, took far more treatments, and hurt like hell (especially in the - *ahem* - more delicate areas), but when you think that it means that you'll never again have to bother with shaving/waxing/whatever, it's definitely, in my opinion, worthwhile. (Bear in mind though that it works best with darker shades of hair.)

Words

[Angeltoes]

I agree 100%...there are times you just have to bite the bullet and go to a dept. store or Sephora, but I would rather avoid the pressure. I think the prices and quality aren't much different.

Today at Whole Foods I bought Persian Rose solid perfume by Pacifica, because it's a small little tin that you can store in your purse and it smells...intoxicating. Gabriel Color blush in Rose...that's the color for my skin tone and Minerals Fusion eye shadow because the colors were crazy beautiful golds that I hardly ever see, Burt's Bee lipgloss in Desert Sunrise....I don't wear a lot of make up normally, but I like to have it on hand. Day to day, I wear lipglosss and mascara, maybe eyeliner.

It used to be that drugstore stuff was crap, but I don't think that's true anymore. It's basically the same as dept store makeup. I don't remember exactly how much it all came to, but I know it was less than Macy's.



I'm a self-confessed drugstore beauty product junkie.
Don't get me wrong, there are certain things that you can only get in a dept. store, professional beauty supplier, or online..But there's not much else that can compare to the great deals, lack of saleslady pressure, and the lazy-dayz clothing that you can wear to the drugstore/chemist.

So, I'm curious..what are your fav beauty finds from your local drugstore..and why do you love them?

[Talon]

This one has Sunscreen in it, but I usually use a light one anyhow under it for extra protection. It works really well for me. I have oily skin, so finding something that does not add to it, is a bonus for me. You have to read lables because several of the BBs do not have sunscreen in them, like the Loreal one. Garnier does so that is the one I stay with.

>>This is so true...I love the Loreal one..but I won't buy it because it doesn't contain sufficient spf.


I also just went to Walmarts, and picked up some Hard Candy lash Primer. It is suppost to build your lashes so they are thicker and longer, before you put on Mascara. I will give it a try tomarrow and let everyone know if it is worth it!

>>Definitely let us know. I also recently bought a lash primer by Claudia Stevens, that I've yet to try, so we shall see. I don't think I'll need it for daytime, but for a night out, it might be nice.

[Talon]

Great stuff! There are a few things I gotta try now...

My criteria for most of my cosmetics & personal care stuff is it is 1) readily available (i.e. drugstore) 2) fragrance-free and 3) under $20. This narrows down the choices... And if I have a coupon, I am most happy!

>>I've saved $30 just in cupons alone at the drugstore, before.

I am a big Cetaphil fan, so most days it's their gentle face wash and moisturizing cream. I use Olay's regenerist serum (fragrance free) as a treatment to make sure I'm putting something good on my face.

>>Love the Cetaphil...great for sensitive skin and dermatologist recommended. I love their face moisturizer..it never irritates me or breaks me out.

I am not a big makeup wearer, and will break out the little bit of Clinique I have for a special occasion, but will not leave the house without concealer. My favorite is the Covergirl & olay simply ageless concealer. You either love of hate it...
My most expensive makeup item is Smashbox Halo. I will cry when it is gone. It is like $60 but my skin is super dry and I love how it wears. I want to try drugstore powder foundations that are supposed to be for dry skin but I have had a hard time getting the right shade as you can't try anything, so I end up not getting any. Any suggestions out there?

>>Foundation is hard, the best way that I've found for picking the right shade is going into the store with none on your face, trying the closest shades on your cheek, and then going outside in natural light and comparing them. The shade that "disappears" into your skin, that's the one. It also helps to bring a friend with you to help. Unfortunately, this only works for the lines that have tester shades. A good one to try is "Loreal True Match". They have the largest selection of shades, and also usually have testers, as well.
Good luck!

I have a bad habit of getting bored with what I'm using and switching around to other stuff, but I'm getting better about that. I always try to get stuff on sale with a coupon, or if it's mall store (like clinique) get stuff when they have gifts.

>>I also like to switch up..I think it's a good thing, actually. The only item that I don't switch is my face wash (Purpose) and my sunscreen (Nuetrogena).

I am still searching for a daily facial sunscreen. I want the above (readily available, fragrance free, reasonably priced) for dry skin and no chemical sunscreen. And doesn't make my skin all shiny or feeling like I have a mask on. The few I have found are either super expensive, too drying, or water-resistant and wear horribly.

>>Have you tried the "Neutogena Ultra sheer for sensitive skin"? It's not a chemical sunscreen, it's sheer, and it runs about $10 generally. Just when you apply it, allow it to absorb for about 5 minutes.

[Talon]

I agree 100%...there are times you just have to bite the bullet and go to a dept. store or Sephora, but I would rather avoid the pressure. I think the prices and quality aren't much different.

Today at Whole Foods I bought Persian Rose solid perfume by Pacifica, because it's a small little tin that you can store in your purse and it smells...intoxicating. Gabriel Color blush in Rose...that's the color for my skin tone and Minerals Fusion eye shadow because the colors were crazy beautiful golds that I hardly ever see, Burt's Bee lipgloss in Desert Sunrise....I don't wear a lot of make up normally, but I like to have it on hand. Day to day, I wear lipglosss and mascara, maybe eyeliner.


>>I used to buy the "Bare Minerals" mineral eyeshadows..because the shades
were just so gorgeous. The only thing was that they didn't wear very long. I'd like to try them again with an eyelid primer, to see if that helps the staying power.


>>Aren't the solid perfumes great! I actually have made my own before from my favorite essential oils. One of my favorites is the lavender, for when I'm feeling stessed. I just apply at my temples and behind my ears..it instantly relaxes me.

It used to be that drugstore stuff was crap, but I don't think that's true anymore. It's basically the same as dept store makeup. I don't remember exactly how much it all came to, but I know it was less than Macy's.


>>>And a lot more BANG for your buck, too.

[Talon]

I was curious if anyone here had tried the dermatologists prescribed lash accelerator called "Latisse"? The results I've seen are impressive..but I'm hesitant because in the fine print it talks about increased brown pigmentation of the eye retina (which is more than likely permanent)..and I don't want my eye-color to change permanently.

[stepfordfemme]

I have incredibly sensitive skin -- allergies/rosacea/you name it....

I love the physicians formula brand and most Almay products.

I also am a sucker for avene anti redness.

The best finds on the cheap are the end of the year discounted stuff. If you are okay with not finding your exact shade but can accept a range, big scores to be had. I just bought nice (revlon) lip liners for about $1 each when normally those suckers are 8$!

Aside from those I am a sephora junkie. I'd rather pay up for products I love (smash box & urban decay) than waste it on products I don't love.

Buy what works best rather than volume.

[Talon]

I have incredibly sensitive skin -- allergies/rosacea/you name it....

I love the physicians formula brand and most Almay products.

I also am a sucker for avene anti redness.

>>Avene, sold at CVS, right?

The best finds on the cheap are the end of the year discounted stuff. If you are okay with not finding your exact shade but can accept a range, big scores to be had. I just bought nice (revlon) lip liners for about $1 each when normally those suckers are 8$!

>>Nice discount, there!

Aside from those I am a sephora junkie. I'd rather pay up for products I love (smash box & urban decay) than waste it on products I don't love.

>>For sure...why throw your money away on items you don't love and will never use? Some things are definitely worth the extra cash.

Buy what works best rather than volume.

>>Smart consumerism.

[PurpleQuestions84]

Jessies girl makes very pigmented eye shadow colors ....
http://www.jessesgirlcosmetics.com/ (rite aid)

[Talon]

Jessies girl makes very pigmented eye shadow colors ....
http://www.jessesgirlcosmetics.com/ (rite aid)


>>I love their their eyeshadows..they last and the colours are very pretty. And you're not reapplying throughout the day, too.

[Ginger]

I just bought the Neutrogena microdermabrasion thing that Bleu was talking about.

They were out of the refill heads, which are 24 for $11.99 (you use it 2-3 times a week).

I'm trying to wean myself off the expensive Clinique exfoliating scrub I've been using since forever. Or maybe I can alternate them. Also, I looked for the Neutrogena scrub that people add sugar or salt to as an exfoliant but they didn't have it.

I can't wait to use the microdermabrasion thing!

[Talon]

I just bought the Neutrogena microdermabrasion thing that Bleu was talking about.

They were out of the refill heads, which are 24 for $11.99 (you use it 2-3 times a week).

I'm trying to wean myself off the expensive Clinique exfoliating scrub I've been using since forever. Or maybe I can alternate them. Also, I looked for the Neutrogena scrub that people add sugar or salt to as an exfoliant but they didn't have it.

I can't wait to use the microdermabrasion thing!

>>Make sunday a day of pampering, luv! Make yourself a delish drink...take a hot bubble bath..watch a girlie movie. Coddle yourself....you deserve it!

[Ginger]

>>Make sunday a day of pampering, luv! Make yourself a delish drink...take a hot bubble bath..watch a girlie movie. Coddle yourself....you deserve it!


Good idea, Talon!

[Fatale]

Two things I do: I keep a little plastic bottle with a flip top full of baking soda in the shower and add a couple of shakes of that to pretty much any facial wash I use. I think I usually grab something from Neutrogena. It's a super inexpensive way to exfoliate.

I also use hydrogen peroxide as a toner. I learned that trick from a friend who's been in the facial business for years. After I wash my face, I just use a cotton round and go for it. The combined cost of a box of baking soda and a bottle of peroxide is maybe $3.

[Talon]

Two things I do: I keep a little plastic bottle with a flip top full of baking soda in the shower and add a couple of shakes of that to pretty much any facial wash I use. I think I usually grab something from Neutrogena. It's a super inexpensive way to exfoliate.

>>Great tip. I'm trying this today. Thank you, Fatale.

I also use hydrogen peroxide as a toner. I learned that trick from a friend who's been in the facial business for years. After I wash my face, I just use a cotton round and go for it. The combined cost of a box of baking soda and a bottle of peroxide is maybe $3.

>>This is interesting..the peroxide wouldn't be drying either, compared w/other alchohol-based toners.

[PurpleQuestions84]

once a week i add powdered milk to a warm bath for baby soft skin :princess:

[Gemme]

I was curious if anyone here had tried the dermatologists prescribed lash accelerator called "Latisse"? The results I've seen are impressive..but I'm hesitant because in the fine print it talks about increased brown pigmentation of the eye retina (which is more than likely permanent)..and I don't want my eye-color to change permanently.

It can sometimes stain your eyelids too.

[Angeltoes]

2 for $8 so I bought these for $16 at Urban Outfitters.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v29/sarahpdx/IMG_1574_zpsa2e6c13e.jpg

[Medusa]

One of my favorite makeup lines I found when trying to break a very long MAC addiction is NYX. My drag queen girlfriends swear by it and I have had great results so far!

this is one of my favorite palettes - The Smoky Eye!

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_fcy5k6uBUeQ/StYETYqhjiI/AAAAAAAAAKw/qvI1bh9Gbcs/s400/PA140031.JPG

[Medusa]

This is the purple one and it is amazing-


Oh, and did I mention these are only $9-$10?!

http://www.makeupandbeautyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/nyx-velvet-rope-eyeshadow-palette-runway-collection-review-swatches-photos-small.jpg

[Femminator]

Well, I can honestly say don't use the Hardcandy Lash Primer. It flakes and irritated my eyes. I felt like stuff was in them all day, e the fibers just got into my eyes. I finally removed all my eye makeup and reapplied without it. I bought a pricier primer at Sephora, it was expensive, 22 dollars for it, but I loved it. (can't remember the name)No irritation. I think when it comes to something like that, it's probably better to go with the pricier ones.

I recently read a book called "looking younger'' . It went into great detail on how makeup artists get their models lashes so thick, without the primer. She said that you pull out the wand, wipe off excess on the rim and then dab on a soft cloth, not to worry there is plenty left on the wand. Place it at the roots of your eyelashes and wiggle it back and forth as you stroke out. Let that thin coat dry for two to three mins. It is imperative for it to dry completely and that you dab off the wand to get a thin coat, or the next layer will clump terribly. Then repeat for a total of three coats. I have not tried this yet either, but I am going to and see if it works like she says......

[G Snap!]

>>Have you tried the "Neutogena Ultra sheer for sensitive skin"? It's not a chemical sunscreen, it's sheer, and it runs about $10 generally. Just when you apply it, allow it to absorb for about 5 minutes.

I would love to try it, but for some reason there isn't any to be had here in Tennessee. Sometimes I feel like I am in a cosmetic "dead zone" because there are things I look for but can't find. Like Cetaphil hand cream & Eucerin sensitive face wash. Yes, I could mail order, but that robs me of the instant gratification of walking into a "wal" store and having it right now.

[cinnamongrrl]

I forgot something I was in the habit of doing previously, and should do again...

When you get build up on your hair from products and shampoo, you can wash your hair with lye soap and it strips it of all the crap and leaves your hair SUPER soft and silky....I was doing it once a month or so..
I discovered it because my ex had very bad psoriasis and lye soap was the only thing that helped it. She would use it on her scalp too and I noticed that her hair looked SO nice and shiny! It's not especially cheap...or even easy to find. (we got it at Cracker Barrel, 5 or 6 dollars a bar) but if you get a soap bar keeper, it will last for however often you use it....

[julieisafemme]

What about BB creams? Is it better than tinted moisturizer? What ones have people tried? I have a hard time knowing which color to get in the drugstore. I usually go to the department store.

[Talon]

once a week i add powdered milk to a warm bath for baby soft skin :princess:


>>I really like this idea...Do you find that the powdered milk works better than using regular whole milk added to your bath?

*Forgive me if you've already answered this, it may have gotten erased in the recent outage*

[Talon]

One of my favorite makeup lines I found when trying to break a very long MAC addiction is NYX. My drag queen girlfriends swear by it and I have had great results so far!

this is one of my favorite palettes - The Smoky Eye!

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_fcy5k6uBUeQ/StYETYqhjiI/AAAAAAAAAKw/qvI1bh9Gbcs/s400/PA140031.JPG


Oh man, NYX *is* the shit.
I have both of those palettes..and I use them both, all the time.
They're eyeshadows are really awesome...*especially* if you're a MAC addict. Because the quality and intensity of the pigments, are very similar(to MAC), at a much better price.

[Talon]

Well, I can honestly say don't use the Hardcandy Lash Primer. It flakes and irritated my eyes. I felt like stuff was in them all day, e the fibers just got into my eyes. I finally removed all my eye makeup and reapplied without it. I bought a pricier primer at Sephora, it was expensive, 22 dollars for it, but I loved it. (can't remember the name)No irritation. I think when it comes to something like that, it's probably better to go with the pricier ones.

>>>>With certain products, you-just-gotta-pay-the-money-honey. Thanks for heads-up.

I recently read a book called "looking younger'' . It went into great detail on how makeup artists get their models lashes so thick, without the primer. She said that you pull out the wand, wipe off excess on the rim and then dab on a soft cloth, not to worry there is plenty left on the wand. Place it at the roots of your eyelashes and wiggle it back and forth as you stroke out. Let that thin coat dry for two to three mins. It is imperative for it to dry completely and that you dab off the wand to get a thin coat, or the next layer will clump terribly. Then repeat for a total of three coats. I have not tried this yet either, but I am going to and see if it works like she says......

>>>Thank you for this tip! I definitely will try this..especially for night time.

[Talon]

I would love to try it, but for some reason there isn't any to be had here in Tennessee. Sometimes I feel like I am in a cosmetic "dead zone" because there are things I look for but can't find. Like Cetaphil hand cream & Eucerin sensitive face wash. Yes, I could mail order, but that robs me of the instant gratification of walking into a "wal" store and having it right now.

>>>Drag...yeah, it isn't the same as going into the actual store and buying it.
And you know, they've actually done studies,
that show consumers do not get the same fufillment when they buy online, as they do when they physically are shopping in a store....So, I totally get that.

[Talon]

I forgot something I was in the habit of doing previously, and should do again...

When you get build up on your hair from products and shampoo, you can wash your hair with lye soap and it strips it of all the crap and leaves your hair SUPER soft and silky....I was doing it once a month or so..
I discovered it because my ex had very bad psoriasis and lye soap was the only thing that helped it. She would use it on her scalp too and I noticed that her hair looked SO nice and shiny! It's not especially cheap...or even easy to find. (we got it at Cracker Barrel, 5 or 6 dollars a bar) but if you get a soap bar keeper, it will last for however often you use it....


>>Now I have a question about this...is the lye soap damaging at all to the hair? And, do you know if the lye soap is similar to LAVA bar soap?

[Talon]

2 for $8 so I bought these for $16 at Urban Outfitters.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v29/sarahpdx/IMG_1574_zpsa2e6c13e.jpg



>>>Nice colors, Angeltoes...I'm such a sucker for anything with shimmer and depth.

[Talon]

It can sometimes stain your eyelids too.


>>>Yikes!...Definitely *NOT* the look I'm after. :blink:

[Chancie]

Okay, it's not especially cheap, but

I just ordered this polish and

I can bring it with me when I have my nails done.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41N0OmG%2BajL._SY300_.jpg

[Talon]

What about BB creams? Is it better than tinted moisturizer? What ones have people tried? I have a hard time knowing which color to get in the drugstore. I usually go to the department store.


>>>Yes, it is better. With BB creams, (depending on the brand, and what each brand offers, so you gotta read labels) You get more than just a moisturizer with a very sheer tint.
For example, I use the "Maybelline Dream Fresh" BB, because it seems to have the most benefits (8-in-1), at a reasonable price:

>>>1. Blurs any imperfections.
2. Enhances your complexion.
3. Brightens your complexion.
4. Adjusts to your individual skin-tone (although, you still have to
choose your skin-tone range..light..medium..dark, ect.)
5. Smoothes the skin.
6. Hydrates the skin.
7. Protects with spf 30.
8. 0% oils and other heavy ingrediants. (so, no "masky" feeling on your
face).


>>>Hope this helps.

[Talon]

Okay, it's not especially cheap, but

I just ordered this polish and

I can bring it with me when I have my nails done.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41N0OmG%2BajL._SY300_.jpg


Ohhhhhh....pretttttty....God, I love that name..."Gelish"...It reminds me of that old "Gene Loves Jezebel" song..."JEAL-OUS...JEAL-OUS..."

*chuckle*

[cinnamongrrl]

>>Now I have a question about this...is the lye soap damaging at all to the hair? And, do you know if the lye soap is similar to LAVA bar soap?

It never did anything but make my hair super soft. And you can feel the difference in it with all the build up gone from your hair. The only problem I did have was that I have natural wave in my hair, and ithe soap releasing all the goop made my hair fluffier...lol...but it's easily tamed with water...then it sits purty :)

Tonight I am trying a face mask I read about. Avocado and olive oil. I have an avocado that is a LITTLE more ripe than I like to eat, so I figure rather than trash it, make a nice mask.It's supposed to be excellent for dry skin... :)

[Talon]

It never did anything but make my hair super soft. And you can feel the difference in it with all the build up gone from your hair. The only problem I did have was that I have natural wave in my hair, and ithe soap releasing all the goop made my hair fluffier...lol...but it's easily tamed with water...then it sits purty :)

>>Cool...thanks.

Tonight I am trying a face mask I read about. Avocado and olive oil. I have an avocado that is a LITTLE more ripe than I like to eat, so I figure rather than trash it, make a nice mask.It's supposed to be excellent for dry skin... :)


>>Darn it..and I just threw out 2 over-ripe avocados yesterday!

[Fatale]

I know it's a super old school thing to do, but I still love giving my hair a henna treatement ever couple of months. My hair is dark auburn, so sometimes I will use one with a bit of a tint in it, but usually I just use a neutral. My hair, which it about 3 inches longer than shoulder length feels fantastic, root to tip.

[Talon]

I know it's a super old school thing to do, but I still love giving my hair a henna treatement ever couple of months. My hair is dark auburn, so sometimes I will use one with a bit of a tint in it, but usually I just use a neutral. My hair, which it about 3 inches longer than shoulder length feels fantastic, root to tip.


>>>> *chuckle*

Nice hair length, Fatale...the henna must make it feel...very soft, smooth, and shiny...so, does it...feel that way?

[Fatale]

>>>> *chuckle*

Nice hair length, Fatale...the henna must make it feel...very soft, smooth, and shiny...so, does it...feel that way?

::smiling...As a matter of fact it does, Talon. I was once told it " is darkness dancing in the light".

You have to love a waxing poet.

[starryeyes]

Nyxx liquid eyeliner. Best eyeliner ever!! (And less than $5.00)

[Talon]

::smiling...As a matter of fact it does, Talon. I was once told it " is darkness dancing in the light".

You have to love a waxing poet.>>>*chuckle*>>>You mean like..

The darkest depths of the sea...bathing gracefully in the pale moonlight....?


...Yeah, ya gotta love those..I hear that they can be quite "fun".


:moonstars:

[Talon]

Nyxx liquid eyeliner. Best eyeliner ever!! (And less than $5.00)



Hi starry...I have yet to try their liquid liner..$5? Nice price.
Thanks for the heads-up.

[falloutmk]

I like the Sinful Professional Nail Color and really did not like the Essie nail polish I got to spoil myself...
Which is silly since Sinful averages around $2 and Essie nail color cost my $9 with a coupon...

Can anyone tell what the big deal over Essie nail color is?

[Talon]

I like the Sinful Professional Nail Color and really did not like the Essie nail polish I got to spoil myself...
Which is silly since Sinful averages around $2 and Essie nail color cost my $9 with a coupon...

Can anyone tell what the big deal over Essie nail color is?


Yeah...I know exactly what you mean. Essie has always chipped on me, the same day. The same with the "Nicole" nail laquer. I do not know why.
For the price of each of those in a drugstore, I can get O.P.I or Orly in a beauty supply store, (which is of much higher quality, w/ the latest season's shades) for the same price, if not less.

[Zimmeh]

I grew up using Noxzema face products for my face. I realized early that I have sensitive skin and did not like washing my face. I now use products from L'Occitane en Provence. Their products are organic and don't make my skin break out. I love their Shea 8% face soap and Precious serum and cream. The creams are $58 a bottle but last me almost six to seven months. For my makeup I like Mac's studio fix powder, again it will last me almost eight months. I love Avon's smooth minerals mascara and their creamy oatmeal wash.

Zimmeh

[TheMerryFairy]

Hi starry...I have yet to try their liquid liner..$5? Nice price.
Thanks for the heads-up.

I swear by it too and normally the liquid liners are hell for me!

[starryeyes]

I swear by it too and normally the liquid liners are hell for me!

Yep! Me too. I hated them until this one. I get a perfect line and they come in lots of cool colors! :-)

[TheMerryFairy]

Yep! Me too. I hated them until this one. I get a perfect line and they come in lots of cool colors! :-)

You can get the liquid liner in colors? I only saw black. I've seen the eyeliner pencils in a ton of colors though - have you tried these?

[starryeyes]

You can get the liquid liner in colors? I only saw black. I've seen the eyeliner pencils in a ton of colors though - have you tried these?

Yes, I have black, brown, purple, silver sparkle and pink sparkle all in liquid. No, I have not tried the pencil liners, I will check them out!

[Fatale]

>>>*chuckle*>>>You mean like..

The darkest depths of the sea...bathing gracefully in the pale moonlight....?


...Yeah, ya gotta love those..I hear that they can be quite "fun".


:moonstars:


Quite like that, actually. Limbs lunar limned, ablutions obliviating...

You've heard right.

[Dominique]

How to Clean Your Make-Up Brushes

January 22, 2013

When it comes to washing make-up brushes, it’s easy to be lazy or not realize how long its been since the last time. However, if you’re going more than a week you’re not doing yourself any favors. With regular use, brushes become a breeding ground for bacteria and debris, plus have old make-up, natural oils and more hanging around. #gross. Take five minutes once per week at night, and by morning you’ll have perfectly clean brushes. This also means you’ll see better make-up results since each application has the exact intended colors (not caked on color from past uses. You’ll be surprised what stays around!). This is an unofficial 2013 resolution of mine and I’m seeing such improved make-up application… and this really only takes 3-5 minutes. Put the music on and have fun with it.
http://theaveragegirlsguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/CleanBrushes.jpg
Two ways to clean:
1. Speedy: with a make-up towelette or unscented baby wipe (in between better cleanses). If it’s safe enough for your face or a babe’s bun, it’s safe enough for your brushes.
2. More thorough: soap + water. Select a mild soap, like Aveeno for babies or a Dove white soap, that’s natural and unscented.

Instructions for a more thorough clean:
1. Lay out all of your brushes by your bathroom sink.
2. Fill a small cup with lukewarm water (I used a kid’s bathroom cup).
3. Dip brush in water to get thoroughly wet; then put a small amount of soap in the palm of your hand.
4. Gently swirl the brush in your hand — and see the magic happen! Repeat as necessary until you do not see any residue.
5. Dip brush back in the water to remove soap and then gently brush over a towel to remove any final residue.
http://theaveragegirlsguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_9924.jpg
6. Lay on a towel to dry, and repeat process for all brushes. Flip brushes after a few hours to encourage even drying.
http://theaveragegirlsguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_99381.jpg (http://theaveragegirlsguide.com/2013/01/how-to-clean-your-make-up-brushes/img_9938-2/)

[Emmy]

Hi,

Thanks for starting the thread! I like Naturtint hair dye quite a bit- not too rough on my poor, much-processed hair. I find that Vitacost is pretty good for natural products like that; much cheaper than Whole Foods anyway (which I realize isn't saying much, haha). But if anyone has any other sources for semi-affordable natural (and non animal tested) products, would love to hear about it!

Thanks,

E

[Bèsame*]

I've recently discovered a way to keep your polish on longer and not have chips.

If anyone has used any glitter nail polish, we know it's harder to remove. It comes off much easier with a pure acetone remover vs the nourishing or non acetone kinds.

Paint your nails your fav color, use a same or contrasting glitter polish as a stripe, like a tip, across the top of your nail. Use a top coat as well. My fav, sold at Sally's is called Out the Door. It is also a quick dry. My manicure on natural nails can last up to 4-5 days with out a chip. Oh, and if it does, case we use our nails as tools...just touch up with the glitter polish.

One of those , you wouldn't know about me on the BFP, I used to have a license to do nailsYeah...I know exactly what you mean. Essie has always chipped on me, the same day. The same with the "Nicole" nail laquer. I do not know why.
For the price of each of those in a drugstore, I can get O.P.I or Orly in a beauty supply store, (which is of much higher quality, w/ the latest season's shades) for the same price, if not less.

[maryam]

I'm seconding or thirding or however-many-it-ising the coconut oil suggestion. I get the big jar at Target in the baking aisle. It doesn't give me breakouts or anything and it's wonderfully soothing. I just moved to colder climate where we actually have to heat our house in the winter and my skin and hair have been all "oh no you didn't!" and gotten all stupid itchy and dry. The really awesome thing about coconut oil is that it's solid at room temperature (at least it is here!) and I'm a massive klutz so it doesn't spill when I knock it over. I rub it into my body and hair after a shower.

I also like Simple Sensitive skin facewash. They just started carrying it at Target, and it's about the same as Neutrogena products price/size wise. I have excema so its very hard to find products I can use.

[cinnamongrrl]

I don't know if this is the BEST place to post this but...we were talking about vintage hair styles in chat today, and I found this wonderful tutorial on how to do victory rolls :) I have a dress that would be soo perfect with this hairstyle! Enjoy ladies :)

Victory Roll Vintage Hair Tutorial by CHERRY DOLLFACE. - YouTube

[Gemme]

I don't know if this is the BEST place to post this but...we were talking about vintage hair styles in chat today, and I found this wonderful tutorial on how to do victory rolls :) I have a dress that would be soo perfect with this hairstyle! Enjoy ladies :)

Victory Roll Vintage Hair Tutorial by CHERRY DOLLFACE. - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rqLiT40ySmg)

Her back tattoo mermaid, which is beautiful but was certainly not cheap, is fantastic.

[cinnamongrrl]

Her back tattoo mermaid, which is beautiful but was certainly not cheap, is fantastic.

I thought so too...she is definitely a colorful personality :) She mentioned having other styling videos...I may peruse... :)

[spritzerJ]

So I've been looking for a lightweight foundation sort of beauty product lately. I have really sensitive skin with allergies to quite a few skin care products. Most foundation type products make my skin break out and my rosacea bloom. I considered making my own all natural foundation but haven't gotten around to it yet.

Today I bought a product that didn't irritate my skin at all. It is Pacifica's Alight Bare skin tint (a BB cream). The product claims to be "shade matching" and while it looked darker than my skin tone it blended perfectly (I am fare and rosy complected). It was a light finish and easy to apply.

I found it at Target. I love Pacifica's perfumes. And there lip tints. So I am partial to the brand.

http://ts1.mm.bing.net/th?id=H.4893708249073356&pid=1.7&w=166&h=171&c=7&rs=1

[cinnamongrrl]

Something for the impending winter....and beyond.. :)


http://www.youtube.com/watch?annotation_id=annotation_721382&feature=iv&src_vid=5LYAEz777AU&v=ssJdyck8rlY


Lol I just watched it again. The girl that does the video is just adorable!

[Medusa]

I wanted to drop a hint on a cheap product I found that works amazingly!

I'm a huge fan of keeping some type of facial scrub in the shower and have always used St. Ives Apricot Scrub. I recently discovered that Wal-Mart carries a "house" brand of it that is about half the price. (and don't get me wrong, they are both incredibly cheap...One is $4, one is $2).

Anyway, I tried the house brand and found it to be just as good as the more expensive one!

[PinkieLee]

I wanted to drop a hint on a cheap product I found that works amazingly!

I'm a huge fan of keeping some type of facial scrub in the shower and have always used St. Ives Apricot Scrub. I recently discovered that Wal-Mart carries a "house" brand of it that is about half the price. (and don't get me wrong, they are both incredibly cheap...One is $4, one is $2).

Anyway, I tried the house brand and found it to be just as good as the more expensive one!

Although I tend to just use a Dove beauty bar 99% of the time for washing my face, I have found a few store brands of facial scrubs that I love (that are hella cheap).

Walmart & Dollar General sell creamy exfoliator cleanser (it's the knock off of Oil of Olay's Renewal Cleanser) that I LOVE. Both of the store brands cost less than $3!

[bright_arrow]

Bumping because I love make-up that's cheap!

My current facial powder to go over my liquid foundation is Elf in translucent, $3-5. I've tried many other loose powders to "set" my makeup but they often wear off and my skin feels and looks shiny in no time. Elf so far has done the best at feeling lightweight while still keeping my face feeling soft and not oily or sticky.

[Kätzchen]

https://i5.walmartimages.com/asr/9da11cba-c4f4-425b-949b-39ecb817d5b6_1.c72eeefd066295df0003df533d5e8aae.jp eg?odnHeight=450&odnWidth=450&odnBg=ffffff

I bought some this past winter and it's inexpensive, feels good on your lips and it's an organic product. It lasts quite a while too. You can probably find it at any drugstore or beauty supply. I found mine at Target. For under $6, I bought a roll-on sphere of lip balm, which came with an extra tube of the same type of lip balm. I'm using the Strawberry flavored one, currently, and I like it a lot.

[Kätzchen]

I’ve been enjoying the conditioning hair color mask by Maria Nila. It’s not exactly cheap, but it’s not expensive either. I like how my hair color looks nicer and how it makes my hair soft and manageable. I use the color mask in a neutral shade (cool cream), so my hair looks natural and beautiful.

Maria Nila hair products are eco-friendly (zero net carbon).

LINK: https://marianila.com/products/colour-refresh-cool-cream-100-ml

[bicentennialjenn]

So for me, I can't find anything I like as much as brands at Sephora... but I get them with VIB percentage off during sales and holiday specials. However, one thing I love is plain old witch hazel as a toner. I've been using it for ages and can attest to the fact that it works and there are no issues!

[Kätzchen]

I bought some nail polish at the grocery store awhile back. It’s super cheap, and it’s a lovely shade that is very sheer and gives your nails a shiny, lustrous pearl like look.

L. A. Gel Polish (color: birthday suit).

https://assets.biglots.com/is/image/biglots/810473535?$medium$

[Kätzchen]

I’ve been using ELF sunscreen in their “Whoa Glow” lotion version and I really like it. It comes in several shades so a person can find a shade that best matches their skin tone. And, it’s cheap. Good stuff. :balloon:

https://www.elfcosmetics.com/dw/image/v2/BBXC_PRD/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-elf-master/default/dw5768a63c/2024/SuntouchableUpdatedAssets_US/0523_EDUCATION_NEWARRIVALS_SPF_FRANCHISE_COMPARISO N.jpg?sw=700&q=90

[Kätzchen]

Did you know that ELF is only one of twohttps://media.cnn.com/api/v1/images/stellar/prod/shutterstock-editorial-14393382k.jpg?q=w_1110,c_fill publicly traded companies that is not changing their DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) policy and that ELF is run by a workforce that is “78% women and 44% people of color”???

Here is a fabulous press release about this makeup company based in California and how their “Don’t be a dick” campaign highlights their brand of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).



https://www.cnn.com/2025/01/25/business/elf-beauty-dei-support/index.html

[Kätzchen]

Something extra, for people to use to find out if the products you use at home are safe and toxin free.

Find out here: EWG’s Skin Deep is a 501 (3)(c) non-profit that researches personal care products and evaluates items for safety.



https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/

[Kätzchen]

https://cdn.nwe.io/files/x/6a/9b/798afbdea473e7d764e42bbbb937.png

I’m liking this line of professional hair care by Biolage. It is formulated with pure rosemary oil and triple filtered vitamin B (niacin) to strengthen your hair and reduce breakage. I used it for the first time yesterday and it transformed my hair into gorgeousness I’ve not seen since I was in my 30s. Absolutely love this product! ❤️

[Kätzchen]

https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTrK_9TNNlhSjvvWJBvH2nLM2iD8FnWV h12k7sv92gtzQ&s images 170×296 pixels

This is a super rich face, hair, and body oil, that is light and easy to use. I use it daily and love how it makes my hair beautiful, my skin glows too.

Link to Evan Healy products: https://www.evanhealy.com/collections/all-products