Holy Grail Makeup & Poll!

First of all .. today is a very special day on my blog! I want to officially state a line of products which is unlike any I have ever tried before, and is definitely going to stay in my makeup stash and will definitely be replaced when it runs out, and that product is ... dun dun dun dun   

Sarah McNamara Miracle Skin Transformer

Now, why do I love this product you may ask? Well first of all it looks incredible on my skin and it doesn't look heavy like a normal foundation does, and it matches my skin perfectly, but that is because it is NOT a foundation. It is a BB Cream, or beauty balm, which is basically a tinted moisturizer with added benefits for the skin, that appears similar, although lighter, to foundation. Another reason why I love it is because (no offense to Makeup Forever) but when I tried MUFE's foundation on one side of my face compared to this Skin Transformer there was no chance for MUFE. The MUFE foundation sat right on top of my skin and was so evident that I was wearing makeup! This product on the other hand, looks like skin, like the naturally beautiful person beneath the makeup, without transforming you to a completely different person, which I love!

Finally I love everything this product does- hydrates, primes, enhances, mattifies, and protects, but I also love that it leaves out  Sulfates, Synthetic Fragrances, Synthetic Dyes, Petrochemicals, Phthalates, Triclosan and mineral oil which are all harmful to the skin.

I also purchased the Tinted Sculpting Balm in coral bronze, which is used as a bronzer. I tried on the other color too, which is used as a blush, but both of these products are multipurpose and can be used as lip color as well! They looked gorgeous together and I wish I had purchased the blush color too! (My next Sephora trip.. you know it girl!)

Lastly, I tried on their lip gloss in colors love and coral, and both were stunning, especially when applied together!

My overall rating for this brand is an A! I loved all of the products I tried on and I can't wait to purchase more, oh jeez! I would recommend this to any bride because it is the quintessential bridal makeup, light, breathable, and you still look like yourself, just a polished version of yourself!

If you wouldn't mind, I would REALLY appreciate if you could take 12 seconds and fill out my survey. Thank you! Besos ❤❤

Ways to Glam up Flip Flops

This video is by Andreaschoice who I absolutely adore! Here are 5 different ways to enhance boring flip flops :)

Must Try Makeup Techniques

Here are some of the tricks I use on a daily basis, I hope you find them helpful!

Highlight: areas you would like to stand out, add lighter color

1. Highlight (use a white or very light pink, fairy dust kind of color) to add dimension under your brow

2. Add this light color to the corner of your eye in the tear duct area to make eyes appear larger

3. Lightly tap this color onto your cupid's bow, right above your top lip to make lips appear larger

4. Give yourself a dewy glow by applying a light shimmery color above your blush from your temple to your cheek, ending vertically below the pupil of the eye

Bronze & Contour: areas you would like to appear slimmer, add darker color


1. The main area to contour is below the cheek bones from mid ear to below the pupil

2. Contour forehead, nose, chin, and neck for slimming effects

3. Use a shade 2-3 shades darker than your skin tone to achieve contour

4. Use a bronzer with little to no sparkle for contouring, sparkle is fine for just adding a bronzing effect to the face

5. Use a blush brush and squish the bristles together into a flat shape instead of it's usual round shape in order to contour, or use a brush designed specifically for contour such as the MAC 163 or a small angled  brush



Besos! ❤❤

Making Waves in Miami!

This post has absolutely nothing to do with makeup, but it does have to do with beauty. The beauty I have witnessed in the past week has been inspiring and life changing to say the least. This summer I have an internship with the Florida Immigrant Coalition in Miami. Within the past week I have been a part of something so much larger than myself. I volunteered at the largest citizenship clinic the U.S. has ever seen, where FLIC assisted around 700 green card holding immigrants with their citizenship application process. I rallied in front of Marco Rubio's office yesterday, and today witnessed the passing of the S. 744, Border Security, Economic Opportunity and Immigration Modernization Act of 2013 in the Senate, while in the FLIC office! 


What I experienced this week was an extreme patients from the hundreds of immigrants at the citizenship clinic who waited hours to complete their applications, a balance between patients and urgency from citizens, documented and undocumented immigrants alike organized in chants, drums, and dance to send a message to Senate, and finally, today, I experienced an array of emotions: tears, joy, and relief. I took part in a conversation in which an acquaintance of mine, Ivan, stated something to the effect of, "If you give a starving person a plate of food, they are going to take it, regardless of what is on it... a plate of food is a plate of food." This immigration reform has its faults, it is not perfect, but it is a start, a foundation, and a beautiful moment for the 11 million undocumented immigrants in this country. 

Check out the footage of us watching and celebrating the Senate decision at FLIC!

http://univision23.univision.com/noticias/local/videos-de-local/video/2013-06-27/dreamers-miami-celebran-reforma-inmigracion-pasada-por-senado

The Reluctant Fundamentalist

This story which has been converted into a movie from a book, and previously from real life experience, was moving and captivating. It includes motifs of love, the American dream, nationalism, alienation, racial profiling, and following one's own path.


It was easy to relate to the struggle of Changez, (Riz Ahmed) the main character, who had to make choices throughout the film whether to follow his heart or to follow what was expected of him in the role he was pursuing. The film makes the viewer contemplate the importance of staying true to one's own beliefs, people, country, and family.

Riz Ahmed's acting was authentic and impressive. The music accented each scene and added a certain richness and culture that was fundamental to the film. I highly suggest seeing the movie!

NYX Lips + more!

I hope everyone is enjoying the end of spring & beginning of summer! I just love warm weather :) Here is a review of NYX lips products I purchased at Ulta plus a few miscellaneous items, enjoy!

These NYX products are as follows starting from top left, ending with bottom right

1. Xtreme lip Cream in Natural
2. Xtreme lip Cream in Nude Peach Fuzz
3. Butter Gloss in Creme Brulee
4. Butter Gloss in Eclair
5. Butter Gloss in Vanilla Cream Pie
6. Jumbo Lip Pencil in Honey Nectar
7. Lipstick in Sky Pink
8. Retractable Lip Liner in Nude Pink
9. Retractable Lip Liner in Grapefruit
10. Retractable Lip Liner in Fruit Punch




Now.. my review!!

I'M OBSESSED WITH XTREME LIP CREAM! It goes on like a lip gloss but first it turns into a lipstick like consistency and after a while, perhaps an hour, it turns into more of a lip stain consistency. I love its staying power and how pigmented it is. Next time I plan to purchase darker colors because I didn't realize how truly pigmented they were and these are a bit light for my skin tone.. but I love them!



The butter glosses are pretty and more natural looking than the xtreme lip creams which is nice for applying over lipstick or wearing alone. They don't have the same staying power as the lip cream but I still really like them for a more simple look.










The jumbo lip pencil is great as it is a cross between a lipstick and a lip stain. I will definitely be purchasing more of these!









The lipstick is surprisingly highly pigmented and lasts quite a while! For $4 or less this is a must have lipstick .. I would even compare it to MAC quality lipstick, I think they are great! The Sky Pink is frosty and a lovely blue pink, I want more










The Retractable Lip Liner is better than any other lip liner I've ever purchased. They are waterproof (for real!) and very rich in color








Now some random goodies!


Mac's Angel Lipstick is stunning! It is a true pinky nude with a touch of shimmer, perfect for day or night .. I have been avoiding wearing it because I love it so much I don't want to use it up!







NYX Eyebrow Shaper is a dream.. I apply it after defining my brows with brown shadow or I use it alone to keep my stubborn coarse hairs in place. It is one of NYX's more expensive products but it is worth it guys!





NYX Studio Liquid Liner is so, so. I have to admit I don't love it but I will use it. I got colors Crystal Gun Metal (Silver Sparkle) and Extreme Plumb Purple. The Purple is very pigmented with one stroke, whereas the silver is not, so it needs multiple coats before it is a strong silver line. For the price I may buy it again but this is an item that will be around for a while since I don't use these colors that much.





Finally NYX Pinched Blush is a pretty soft pink with gold shimmer that is said to be a "dupe," or duplicate, for Nars Orgasm. I like the color but I don't believe that it stands up to Orgasm because the color isn't rich enough for it to compare. Still a lovely blush though!





I hope you enjoyed this post! Let me know if there is anything I should try and write a review on? What else do you want to see on my blog? SUBSCRIBE por favor! Besos ❤❤

Review of the Hottest Eyes & Face Products Right Now!

I just celebrated my 21st birthday and was given Sephora and Mac gift cards as presents (and I splurged a little!!) This review is mostly comprised of products that I have heard great things about and have been dying to get my hands on so I thought I would share with you! I actually have so many to review that I decided to break this into 1 eyes & face post followed by a lips/NYX post.. enjoy!!







NAKED PALETTE #1 by Urban Decay
This little baby is really incredible. The colors are so rich and highly pigmented with amazing color payoff. If you love makeup this is really worth purchasing. I ended up buying the 1st one because it is better for warmer skin tones like mine, whereas the second palette is better suited for fairer skin tones, but the colors aren't too different in either one so anyone can really rock them!

On the other hand, I'm not too crazy about the little extras that the palette includes. It comes with a mini UD eye primer which I found too sticky for my taste, as well as an eyeshadow brush which works fairly well but I prefer my Mac 217 brush.


Too Faced tinted Beauty Balm (BB Cream)
Love it! This is my first BB cream that I have tried and the color matches my skin perfectly! I wear shade Cream Glow. It is really light and natural looking as opposed to foundation which completely washes out your natural blush and skin color. I am diggin' this for summer!




The Porefessional by Benefit
This primer reduces the appearance of pores and oil and smooths out skin's appearance. I had been using Flawless and Poreless by Pixi which is almost the exact same texture and consistency as Porefessional. I still love both and think they work equally well. The only downside is that Porefessional is packaged in a .75 oz tube at a price of $30 which I think is outrageous. Once this is empty I will be purchasing Pixi's product again because it is $30 for a 1.01 oz tube .. more for your money honey!


Too Faced Shadow Insurance
To me, this eye primer outbeats Mac's paint pots and UD's Eyeshadow Primer Potion anyday. I haven't experienced any creasing and the eyeshadow, regardless of how loose and sparkly (Naked shadows!) will stick so well to the eyelid! I can't say enough about this primer..seriously!







Nude on Board bronzer by Mac
Mac currently has a limited edition line of bronzers which I recommend going to check out. While Mac is always on the pricey side, I think that for the size of the compact which includes a mirror, this is actually a pretty good value! $24 I believe .. but go scope it out before they are gone!








Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner by Stila
This one is quick.. outstanding liner! Worth the money.. fantastic staying power.. great black color.. and really fine tip which is excellent for winging out your liner. Get it.







They're Real mascara by Benefit
Fab mascara that lengthens, separates, and adds natural drama. Dislike how pointy the bristles on the wand are though.. ouch man!



Various Mac eyeshadows (from left to right)
& ignore the weird dot on my hand!

Cork: Muted golden-brown
Saddle: Golden orange-brown
Shale: Mauve plum with subtle shimmer
Sable: Golden plum with bronze pearl
Soft Brown: Golden Peachy Brown

I could never give Mac eyeshadows a negative review.. they never disappoint, although I am quite impressed by the Naked & Boudoir Eyes palette.




For insanely cheap highly pigmented shadows, Coastal Scents is on spot! My favorites by them are Sand Dune, HP-ME21, Victorian Pear, HP-ME04, Fresh Tone, Canyon Coral, Rich Walnut, & Amaretto. Their prices are unbeatable at $1.99 per e/s pan!!





I hope this review was helpful! If you have any questions, comments, think this post was way too long, want to see more posts like this, love my blog, or have any helpful suggestions please comment! Don't forget to subscribe :) Muchisimos besos amores ❤❤

Too Faced Product Review

So I just celebrated my 21st birthday and I was given the Too Faced Shadow Insurance Primer and the Boudoir Eyeshadow Palette. I AM OBSESSED WITH BOTH!







These shadows are so beautifully pigmented. I love that the palette includes both matte and sparkly shadows, but the sparkle isn't overwhelming so it looks more natural. This is definitely my favorite palette I own now! You can create a romantic dreamy look that is sexy for any time of day or going out at night!

This eyeshadow primer is amazing! I have been using Mac's paint pots for years, but this primer ensures that there is no creasing or lines and you shadow will stay intact all day and night! It has incredible staying power so I will definitely be using this from now on.









Let me know what are you end of spring favorites? Besos! ❤❤

Lipstick Tip of the Day!

Here are 2 quick tips to get your week started on a beautiful note :) 

Apply a light to medium coat of concealer to your lips before applying lipstick to get the true color of the lipstick and to cancel out the natural color of your lips

Apply a medium to thick coat of concealer on your lips to create a nude color. Simply add a clear gloss or vaseline to go from matte to gloss



Besos ❤ 

Quick Eyeshadow Tip!

For a sharper, more defined line to your eyeshadow & liner, use a credit card, business card, or tape at an angle following the natural lower lash line to create a fierce & dramatic look!

Before applying the tape, stick it to the back of your hand to remove some of the adhesive. Prep eyes with eye primer or regular concealer. Apply the tape before adding shadow and/or liner. Once the look is complete simply remove the tape!

Thanks for reading! Besos ❤ 

Cheap but Great Makeup!

These are products you can buy on a budget and are some of the key pieces in my makeup collection. Unless I state otherwise, you can get these at drug stores

L'oreal Voluminous Mascara $7.99 at drugstores 

I like it in any color but I prefer black with a curved brush 

L'oreal True Match Lumi.. I just can't get over this stuff! It works better for me than Mac's face and body and it is less than half the price at $13. It has great coverage, spf 20, and it is not cakey. 

Jordana Cosmetics Fabuliner $1.99 .. you cannot beat the price! The line that it draws may be a little thick if you are rushing or new to felt tip eyeliner, so just practice with it and it will become a breeze to use. *I believe only Walgreens sells this, not CVS

Jordana Cosmetics Lip Liner in Baby Berry or Tawny. Perfect everyday lip liners to wear under lip stick, colored gloss, or a clear gloss..even as a lip stain! $1.99 also I believe *find at Walgreens

Revlon Colorstay Aqua in Translucent, $13. Put this on over your foundation for a matte finish, to set your makeup, or to keep away oil all day long

Victoria's Secret Lip gloss in Elegance and Yearning, $12 at VS or online. This picture doesn't do Yearning justice but it is a universal color that people with fair skin to dark skin care wear! 

ELF blush in Blushing Rose (top) or Peachy Keen (bottom), $3 each .. I really want to try all of the colors they have listed though! This is really great quality blush & so pretty! Plus ELF always has online coupons.. find them! 

& While I'm on the subject of Elf.... ELF Stippling Brush, $3   I love this brush because it will give you a light to medium application of the product and you can build up as you go but it is never too much like a regular blush brush can be 

Vaseline MINI! If you have one of these babies you will never need to purchase clear lip gloss ever again.. you can use the regular sz container as well!

Covergirl Lipstick in any shade! They have such gorgeous colors for around $8 you can pick a few for the price of one high end shade

How could I forget to mention Coastal Scents!? They have a ton of great stuff from their brushes to their eyeshadows! My favorite thing they sell though is their 26 shade blush palette. For $8.95 you really need to get it before it's gone because it has so many colors to flatter all skin tones

Although this isn't makeup, blotting sheets for oily skin can be really expensive! For a pack of 50 from ELF they are only $1!






Finally, the Haute Jersey Leopard Couture Palette by NYX is sexy! It comes with eyeshadows, lip gloss, blush, bronzers, and a highlight color. It is listed on NYX's website for $20 but I bought it at T.J. Maxx for $12. Go find yo-self one ladies :)

I hope you liked this post!

BESITOS ❤

Hair Masks with Products you Already Own!

In order to get your hair into its healthiest, shiniest, most moisturized state, you may want to consider a hair mask treatment. These are all products you can find in your cabinets or fridge, so you can save that $15 for something special :)



Dry Hair
Combine three tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil with two eggs and apply the mixture to your hair. Let  it sit for 20 minutes before rinsing in the shower. The olive oil will help hydrate, while the protein in the eggs will promote healthy hair growth. (Just a hint, mostly all curly hair owners are in the dry category!)

ALL Hair Types
Use a ripened avocado and mix in a tablespoon of organic honey and allow it to sit for 20 minutes before rinsing it off in the shower. 

Avocados are rich in vitamin E and protein, which your hair needs to remain soft and healthy, meanwhile, honey is a natural antibacterial agent & I have also heard it is a humectant, which means that it will attract moisture from the air particles, leaving your hair less dry!





Oily hair

Combine 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar with the grated peel of an entire lemon and allow it to set for 15 minutes to absorb the excess oil from your scalp, and then rinse in the shower.

Apple cider vinegar will remove build up from styling products and conditioners and strengthen the hair shaft, leaving you with soft, shiny strands. It will also balance hair’s pH level, kill bacteria, and is a cure for dandruff.




DRY,  Flaky scalp

Mash together 1/2 of a ripe banana, add 2 tablespoons of honey and a few drops of almond oil. Allow it to set with a shower cap for 20 minutes before rinsing. 

Bananas can increase the moisture of your hair, smooth frizz and soothe your itchy scalp.