The Vanity Calamity

Cosmetics, Bath&Body, Skincare, Nail design...no beauty-topic is off limits here at the Vanity Calamity, my personal blog dedicated to all things beauty related. From product reviews, tips, and tutorials, I hope you can find something here that keeps you coming back for more! Any Questions or comments? Please feel free to contact me!

Saturday, April 25, 2009

Cheap Thrill: Sonia Kashuk Blending Sponge


For $9.99 at Target, I picked up SK's new Blending Sponge, a dupe of the Beauty Blender which sells for twice the price. I haven't tried it yet, but was compelled to let the masses know what I did with my spare Target giftcard today. I wasn't planning on getting it, but hey~it was there. I am looking forward to using this with my neglected liquid foundations I have. I know, I know~ I am a mineral girl, but I'm up for a change. That's what its all about! I hear the Blending Sponge gives a flawless, airbrushed appearance in a fraction of the time it takes to use a brush, fingers, or conventional makeup sponge. I'm looking forward to putting Ol' Bluey to use!

Friday, April 3, 2009

Review: Pur Minerals Pressed Mineral Foundation

This is a great medium to heavy coverage foundation for acne-prone skin!
I purchased this Pur Minerals starter kit before Christmas time for a steal~about $10 at Dillard's. This set includes the full-sized foundation, Chisel Brush, Mascara, and some makeup removing wipes. Not bad, eh? Well, I never got around to even opening the box until earlier this week. Yes, I know.

Let me preface this review by saying that I am a devout mineral foundation user. Never look at liquid foundations anymore! And, I look for a foundation that gives me medium coverage in a natural finish. My skin is combination/acne-prone and occasionally dry in all the stubborn places~around the nose, mouth, and sometimes cheek area. I had been using L'Oreal Bare Naturale foundation daily, and to a pleasant reception, but I just like to keep my options open in regards to foundation choices.

Now, back to Pur Minerals foundation. I'm glad I opted for the 'Light' kit which definitley was the right choice for me. I've gotten to the point where I can just look at a foundation and see if it is gonna work for me. The 'Light' shade has the yellow/beige undertones which is what I need, rather than the rosy/pink undertones. After a few trial and error test runs with Pur Minerals Pressed Foundation, I have found a perfect way to achieve a natural and ideal finish on my delicate skin!

First, I wash with my daily cleanser, apply my toner, and proceed to moisturize with my daily spf lotion. After 5 minutes or so, I use a couple spritzes of MAC Fix+, to give my skin an extra boost of moisture. This step also helps allow the mineral foundation a smooth, hydrated canvas to begin. Yes, the chisel brush is great! I swirl the chisel brush into the foundation, tap off the excess into the lid, and apply in short circular motions on my skin. Boy, this covers acne, redness, and uneven skintones in an instant! Sure, a touch of concealer is needed afterwards sometimes on those stubborn zits that defy all logic and sanity. After applying the foundation all-over, I spritz my MAC Fix+ a couple of times. This sets everything together, and helps give that 'dewy' finish.

I haven't had any irritation or breakouts from using this foundation. You know how sometimes mineral foundations tend to make skin itch? Think Bare Escentuals...Not Pur Minerals! It feels silky and light on my skin. Plus it has SPF 15 and doesn't contain talc, harsh chemicals, or preservatives. I am completely excited about the possibilities with this foundation. I know it's only been a few days, but I feel an extra boost of confidence regarding my skin. I am happy as a clam.