Tip o' the Day

When coating lashes with mascara, wedge the wand right against the roots and wiggle it before drawing it out. This makes the base of the lashes appear fuller and thicker.

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Olay Regenerist Microdermabrasion & Peel System

This is one of those products that's a little pricey for us regular folk at $23.99. My sister told me about it a year ago, and her rave reviews ensured I had it in my grubby little paws within the week. Unlike the Neutrogena 14-day Skin Rescue, which is the same price, I can say with absolute certainty that this stuff works. In the tub is some pleasant-smelling, orange stuff they call "derma-crystals." You only need an amount about the size of a quarter, which you then massage over your face for up to one minute, getting the best exfoliation of your life. You leave that on, and then get some of the peel activator serum from the bottle and massage it over the existing layer of orange fabulousness. You feel a little burst of warmth as the serum dissolves the crystals. After, your skin is so very soft. When you put on your moisturizer, I swear it's like rubbing velvet. I always use this when my skin starts to look dull and pallid, and the next day it really is more glowy and radiant. The directions recommend using two or three times a week, but I only have to use it once a week. As a result, it lasts for quite a while, making the $23.99 price tag worth every penny. I cannot vouch for Olay's claims that it diminishes wrinkles, but I don't even care. The other benefits are all I need to make this a staple in my skin-care routine for as long as I can get it.

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John Frieda Radiant Red Shampoo & Conditioner

I was checking out the clearance end caps at Walmart one evening and picked up this set of John Frieda Radiant Red Shampoo & Conditioner. It was after all, only $3 a bottle, which is at least half price!

Do we have a lot of redheads out there? I'm a natural redhead whose hair has gone a bit bland and mousy over the years. I often dye it just to give it an extra boost of color every now and then. This shampoo and conditioner is a great mid-point between dying and maintaining great red color.

I haven't noticed a huge difference in the actual color of my hair, I think that will take time, but it's a lot shinier and my hair seems to reflect light just a bit more, enough I actually notice. This product is definitely meant for a functional use, not a frilly fruity shampoo that makes your hair smell great. It smells like a more subdued hair dye. Which is actually a major negative, especially when your husband hugs you, sniffs your hair, and reacts with a "Wow that stuff really doesn't smell good does it?"

So I've spritzed some Dove leave-in conditioner in my hair after showering to combat that problem and it really helps! I know lots of people use the Blonde and Brunette versions of these products with great results. I'm now inclined to try out the Pantene Red products, too!

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Winner!

Congratulations, MichelleSG! Your number was selected using a random number generator, and you are the winner of the Maybelline Plumping Lipcolor! Please send an e-mail to primpandtell@gmail.com with your address and we'll send it right out!

And to the winners of the Soap and Glory scrubs, I will be mailing those out tomorrow. I profusely apologize for the delay - I was lacking in suitable mailing materials.

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A mascara deal and a message

Thanks to Kristen, who sent me this message to pass on to you:

"Something you & possibly your readers might be interested in - in the March issue of the All You Magazine (available at Wal-Mart) there is a coupon for a FREE thing of mascara from Rimmel. It's the Sexy Curves mascara...I just picked mine up, haven't tried it yet, but who can resist free mascara? It retails for I think just under $6.50."

So hie thee down to Walmart and give it a shot. Oh, and let us know if you like it; we want to hear reviews from our readers! On another note, we haven't had any Ask & Tells the last couple of weeks because our question count is kind of low. But when we get some built up, we'll post them again. Thanks for reading!

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Tip o' the Day

To find the most natural-looking blush color for you, pinch one of your cheeks when you have no makeup on, and apply blush to the other side. If your cheeks match, it's the right shade.

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Maybelline Pure Makeup Foundation

I was talking to my sister the other day, and she mentioned that just about everything we've reviewed on here is new stuff, and that I should review something that I've used for a while, something I'm faithful to. There really aren't a lot of things that I do stick with because I just love new products. Even if I am in love with one particular product, if something similar comes out on the market, I leave the old product behind like a greasy, chubby guy that I made out with in loneliness because my future husband was 2000 miles away for two years. Not that I've ever done that. Ahem.

Moving on, the only thing I have used consistently for at least a couple of years is this Pure Makeup Foundation by Maybelline. The fact that it is so cheap, usually less that $5, isn't even the best thing about it. So many foundations feel very heavy, and end up looking pasty. This one is light, but covers well. I once bought a $12 tinted moisturizer from Neutrogena, and I liked how smooth it was and how easy to blend in, but it didn't offer enough coverage. It's still rotting away in my makeup kit. But the Pure Makeup Foundation feels like the best of both - a light and thin liquid that does an amazing job of evening out your skin tone. I know a lot of people are leery of foundation because they fear that caked-on look. But if you just apply on your trouble areas and blend it in, this one is a great tool for a flawless-looking face. I only ever use it on my nose, chin, and any spots I may have. I very highly recommend this for anyone who is scared of taking the leap into Foundation Land. I would buy this if it cost four times as much. Coincidentally, Missy bought this recently, and she also has nothing but good things to say, and she'll be leaving her two cents in our comment section.

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Maybelline VolumeXLSeduction Plumping Lipcolor

Honestly, the only reason I bought this product originally was because it was on clearance; especially when you consider I bought Peach Plump - I never buy peach makeup. I also wouldn't normally buy plumping lipsticks; God gave me a decent set of semi-full lips, so it's just not something I'm concerned with. But clearance is clearance and I love to try new things. I have to say I really like it. The peach color was actually perfect for my skin tone, and unlike a lot of plumping lipsticks, this didn't make it look like I'd been punched in the mouth. I usually use this particular lipstick when I'm in a hurry and just trying to add a little color to my face, or when I've done my eyes quite dramatically and need something natural yet pretty on my lips. It tingles quite a bit when you put it on, an effect of whatever it is that "plumps." (I could do some research for you on whatever it is, but... nah.) I liked it enough to go buy another color tonight, and I chose another light neutral called Born With It. Now I need to go check out their more dramatic reds. I love me some red lipstick. At any rate, I also bought one for one of you! Missy and I just love doing the giveaways, so I couldn't resist. The color I selected for the giveaway is Passionate Plum. Leave your comment on this post with your first name, and we'll announce a winner on Monday. You have until 5pm CST on Sunday! Good luck!

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Tip o' the Day

It's Missy here bringing you today's tip!

After tweezing brows, spritz with a fine mist of water to see any baby hairs you may have missed.

Keep checking back because we will be having a giveaway this week! (I'm just not telling you when!)

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L'oreal Bare Naturale Gentle Mineral Eyeliner

I touched on this product a bit in one of our "Ask & Tell" posts a few weeks back. This eyeliner is absolutely fabulous. It is a powder mineral eyeliner, and at first I was a little worried I would make a huge mess with it, but I didn't. The brush that stores in the lid is one of the greatest makeup brushes I have ever used. It's stiff enough to let you draw a nice, even line, yet soft so that it doesn't feel harsh on the delicate eye area. I loved the line it drew - very good for someone like me with very shaky hands and poor applying technique. I really like the look of liquid liner, but it's too easy to mess up, so I never use it. I found this a perfect alternative. It was a good, strong line very similar to what you'd get with liquid. I also found that you can play with it a bit - I made great cat's eyes one day with just one extra swoop. With a light touch, you can make a natural looking line; with a heavier hand you can add on until the look is quite dramatic. You do have to be careful when applying, because it will dust under your eyes and will mess up your concealer. After you've dipped the brush in the powder, be sure to tap off any excess back into the container and I recommend when you use this that you actually apply it before your concealer. That way you can dust off the excess and fix any smudges that occur.

They have five gorgeous colors - and I have had to physically restrain myself from buying each and every one when I go to the store. There is a recession, after all.

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Maybelline Dream Matte Powder

After purchasing and being totally disappointed with this product I decided to ditch my old CoverGirl compact for something new. I held off on trying another mineral product, even from some of the major cosmetic brands, and stuck to a normal compact. This time I chose Maybelline Dream Matte Powder.

I was honestly ready to ditch this compact entirely when I discovered how unwieldy it can be. You have to twist it open to get to the mirror and puff and then open the lid to get to the powder. Not a remarkably well designed compact, at least I didn't think so. Once I figured out how in the heck it even worked I was in love. I am more than 100% willing to deal with the packaging because this powder is really amazing. I'll give you a few reasons why you should give this one a try:

First, the puff is small and light and really soft. It may not last a really long time because it seems somewhat fragile so I hope Maybelline sells them individually. Second, the powder comes in a myriad of colors so you're bound to find one that suits your skin tone. Their website even says that it will match to your skin, and I've found mine matches dead on. Third, it really does give your skin a dreamy "matte" look. It covered so perfectly I was honestly a little surprised. Fourth, it makes your skin SO soft. If you love your skin feeling soft and looking clean and smooth and not shiny at all, I promise you will love it.

I almost didn't buy this because I thought the name was really cheesy, but I really love it. Now if they would only make it in a more simple compact I would love it even more.

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Cover Girl Lash Blast Luxe

Apparently, Missy and I are major mascara connoisseurs. I believe this is the third one we've reviewed in a month, and I know I've got more to review in the future. I just adore mascara.

*Sigh*

And, also, I really love shimmer. It makes me think of fairies and rainbows and magical things. (No, I've never dropped acid, I swear.) I love anything that promises a shimmery look, then I can imagine I'm beautiful enough to dance under the moon and starlight with the fae. Ten years ago, I would have worn the sparkliest stuff they make. But since I'm 32, I decided I shouldn't buy things that cater to prom queens, so I go for the more toned-down shimmers.

What better for someone like me than a lovely combination of sparkle and mascara? I've tried Cover Girl's other Lash Blast mascara, which is really good. I love the mascara wand, and the formula makes my lashes nice, thick, and full. I didn't notice any severe flaking or smudging, and that's also a major priority for me in mascara. When I saw the promos for the Luxe version featuring Drew Barrymore with beautiful little sparkles on her eyes, and fabulous hot pink packaging (hot pink being something else for which I'm a sucker) - I was very excited. Needless to say, in person the sparkles aren't as obvious as I had hoped, but that's okay. I'm sure it's also fine for those of you who like a more subtle look. It does add this pretty sheen to your lashes. It's a very good mascara, mixed with a bit of fun - and that's one of the first things I look for in makeup - that it is fun to use and fun to look at.

I combine this review with Cover Girl's Eye Enhancers 1-Kit Shadows because on some specially marked packages of the Lash Blast Luxe, they have a coupon for one free 1-Kit shadow with a Lash Blast purchase. I chose the Golden Sunrise color, which is so pretty. They have lots of good, simple colors from neutrals to extreme brights. I don't know how much longer they will be having this promo, but I bought mine early last week, so if you hurry, you might still have a chance.

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This Week's Winners...

The winner of the Scrub Your Nose In It is "Randivon." The usernames for the two winners for the Flake Away are "Ginnn7" and "Amber&Robby." Congratulations, everyone! Please send us an e-mail to primpandtell@gmail.com with your name and address, and we'll send them right out!

This was our last weekly giveaway - from here on out - they will just be random little surprises. But we love to do the giveaways, so please keep spreading the word. Tell your friends! The more people know about our little site - the more giveaways we can have!

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Neutrogena 14-Day Skin Rescue

When I wrote this little article a couple of weeks ago, I said I had bought this product and would begin using it that very day so I could let you know whether or not the $23.99 was worth it.

*Sigh* The truth is - I just don't know.

I decided to keep a little "diary" of my daily use, documenting immediate reactions, eventual changes, etc. Here's what I got:

Night 1 – I actually really like the feel of the cleanser. Just the tiniest bit grainy, but otherwise soft and smooth. Also smells quite nice. The night cream was just that, a cream. No real thoughts about it, yet. It’s probably my imagination because I’m having a good skin day, but I swear my face seems a little glowier.

Morning 2 – Again, my skin seems extra radiant and fresh. I think it’s the cleanser.

Night 3 – The packaging promises day 1-3 you will enjoy a “revived, healthy glow.” And it’s true. Today I’ve had one of the best skin days I’ve had in a very long time. I mean, since this is an honest website telling the truth – here goes. My chin breaks out BAD from ingrown hairs. And I hate it because I feel like I look dirty and unkempt. But, no blemishes on my chin today. Coincidence? I’m thinking not, but let’s see.

And that's where I stopped. Laziness? No - just nothing else happened, at least nothing that "inspired" me to sit and write about it. I still had some breakouts. My skin might have been slightly more smooth than normal - but I have good weeks like that at times anyway. So I can't say for certain it was the Rescue kit. And it really is for only 14 days, the containers of product are small and won't much beyond that, if at all.

I guess after all is said and done - I'd have to say $23.99 is A LOT OF MONEY to not be totally WOWED by the results. (Especially now.) And maybe it's just my skin; I wouldn't say it's the best, but it's not horrible either. Perhaps someone with slightly more severe skin problems than I have would see more results. But maybe just exfoliating correctly and finding the right day and night moisturizers for your skin will do the trick. I wish I could tell you 100% one way or the other, or even 75%, but I can't. Decide for yourself. Or better yet, let your budget decide if it's worth trying.

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Tip o' the Day

Deepen the color of any powder eye shadow by dipping a small, firm brush in water before swiping it over the shade. "It gives an intensity to the color," says makeup artist Jeanine Lobell. It also helps the shadow last. Just don't try to blend two shades - you'll make a mess.

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Physician's Formula Mineral Wear 100% Mineral FaceBrightener

I subscribe to a few blogs that are geared toward helping moms save money. A few weeks ago one of their updates included a rebate offer from Physician's Formula on a new mineral pressed powder. Buy it, send in the rebate and get back your full purchase price. I'm game for a free cosmetic so I didn't even think twice about giving it a try.

Unfortunately, this powder is harder to find. The Targets I went to have yet to carry it, but I eventually found some at Walgreen's. Plus it was on sale for $8.99 (great savings over the $11.99-$13.99 retail price). Now, I'm a big fan of mineral products, but mostly only for eyes. I have yet to try any mineral face product, let alone a pressed powder, and I'm a devout fan of Cover Girl Fragrance Free Clean Pressed Powder (I've used it for years). So I was skeptical in trying this from the get go. The packaging is super sleek, but bulky. I purchased it in Light Glow because that was the lightest shade Walgreen's had. And I hate to admit that I was so disappointed to find it only had a powder brush because I love my powder puffs in my compacts. So my first application was a bit unwieldy and it took me a couple of days to get the hang of it.

On the positive side, this stuff goes on super sheer and blends really easily. It doesn't clog my pores nearly as much as other compacts have and it has no smell. But that's all the good I can really say. I hate the powder brush, I honestly do! I know some people swear by them, but I ended up pulling out a spare Cover Girl powder puff and used it with this. That's not exactly the right route to go either because it causes the powder to go on too heavily. Unfortunately for my super fair skin, this shade was way too dark. My husband looked at me after applying it one morning and asked if I was wearing bronzer. Physician's Formula's website shows lighter shades, but I have yet to find them in stores. Plus it just didn't give me the coverage or matte look I really like in a powder. It doesn't absorb any moisture in your skin and left my face shiny and uneven.

So I shelved this one. It'll go in my pile of duds, but I will be sending in my rebate! If you love mineral powder, I'd encourage you to try this, especially if you're good about keeping receipts and sending in rebates. (And if you love powder brushes!) They're offering a rebate on a couple of other products if you're willing to give those a try, too, we'd love to hear what you think. I did find a new replacement for my old Cover Girl compact that I can't wait to tell you guys about soon!

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Soap and Glory Scrub Your Nose In It and Flake Away

How could you not love the Soap and Glory packaging, first of all? It's just so fun and retro and pink. (Also, the model on a lot of the packaging looks very much like Lucille Ball - and I totally love her. I even named one of my cats Lucy.) You can learn a wee bit more about the line created by Marcia Kilgore, also founder of Bliss Spa, by clicking here. Or, you know, Google her. But for now, let's just discuss these two exfoliating products. The first one, Scrub Your Nose In It, I read about in Lucky Magazine. They loved it and quite sang its praises. It can be used as a scrub, or left on a bit longer as a clay mask. Because I find it impossible to resist budget friendly suggestions from Lucky Mag, I immediately bought some. At first, I was ever so slightly turned off because it looked like Comet - the kitchen, bleachy cleaner stuff (and smelled like, or at least it seemed to - perhaps it was a hallucination due to the color.) But after I used it one time, I absolutely loved it - Comet look/smell be darned. It is absolutely not harsh, and it really did make my face so soft and smooth. If I am having a breakout, I'll use it as a mask, and it helps tremendously. Mind you, I'm not saying it completely eliminates the breakout - but it definitely makes things look a lot better.

Because I had such good success with the face scrub, I then decided to try one of the body scrubs, called Flake Away. Love. It really gets all the yucky dry skin build-up to bow down and head out of town. (Wow, that rhymed. I wasn't even trying.) It smells divine and feels wonderful. My skin was so soft - and it lasted for days. Usually after using a scrub, I feel the results for maybe a day, but this just kept things smooth. My only complaint is I can't buy these as fast as I can use them.

Get thee to comments. Leave one. Win one of these.

**This giveaway is now closed! Thanks for entering!**

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Tip o' the Day

To give the skin a subtle sheen, mix a pea-size drop of highlighter with foundation in your palm before applying. To make foundation a little darker (in the spring or summer), try this trick with a drop of liquid bronzer instead of highlighter.

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This Week's Winners...

Melinda won the Maybelline Shiny-Licious Lip Gloss, and Mubeen won the L'oreal Beauty Tubes Mascara! Congratulations, ladies. Please send an e-mail to primpandtell@gmail.com with your address and we'll get them out right away. Thanks for entering! Check back Monday for our last weekly giveaway. After next week, giveaways will be random surprises!

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Tip o' the Day

While this one will benefit anyone - this is especially for Jenny. She asked about highlighter a couple of weeks ago:

The right shade of liquid highlighter leaves only a glow on the skin - as opposed to depositing color. Usually, this means silvery pink for fair skin, golden tints for olive skin, and bronze highlighter for dark skin. For a subtle glow, smile and dab liquid highlighter just above the apples of the cheeks. Then blend it up and out toward the temples in the shape of a Nike swoosh.

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Almay Pure Blends Finishing Powder

Almay has come out with a new line of cosmetics that are made from over 95% natural ingredients. They are called Almay Pure Blends, and they are hypoallergenic and eco-friendly. Even the packaging is biodegradable. *Sigh* The packaging. I got caught again by packaging. This box is so clean-looking and pretty. And the one I picked had the word "shimmer" on it. See, a part of me likes to believe that even though I am not actually a fairy, I can kind of look like one by adding a little "shimmer" to my life. So the pretty, clean, pink packaging bearing the word shimmer drew me in. And while I don't really have anything negative to say about this product, I'm not singing operatic praises about it, either. It did give me a subtle, pretty shimmer, but really the only extra recommendation for this powder is the fact that it is natural. I will say I didn't care for the puff that came with it. It was kind of stiff and didn't apply well; I used a powder brush. I know lots of people that really care about making sure their products are natural and safe, and this is a very good product for them. So for those of you who like natural, biodegradable cosmetics, they also have eye shadow, blush, lip gloss, blush/bronzer and foundation. In fact, when I bought the powder, it had a free eye shadow that came with it, which is also a very good reason why I bought it. I'm a sucker for a freebie. There you have it - not a glowing recommendation - but not a "stay away" either. It's all up to YOU. Isn't that nice?

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Oil of Olay Age Defying Intensive Nourshing Night Cream

A month or so ago I was rushed to get ready in the morning and get my son to school on time. I usually always put my mascara on as soon as I get in the car, or in the parking lot at work. This particular morning I was exhausted. We all have those mornings, right? I sat in my car before heading away from my house and turned the rear view mirror down to apply the first of a couple of coats of mascara for the day. I gasped. That was not my face, those were not my eyes! How could I look so much older overnight? Granted, I'm still a spring chicken in some people's books, but the difference was so suddenly dramatic to me I immediately went to the store that day and bought some anti-aging moisturizer.

Now because I'm really lazy I hardly ever wash my face before bed. And I knew if I bought this stuff I'd be more likely to be a good girl and do a favor for my skin for once! Unfortunately it took me about 2 weeks to actually get in the habit. And I will never go back!

Not only has developing better habits been good for my skin, but this stuff is GREATNESS for my skin. It reminds me of Clinique's Repairwear Intensive Night Cream. I got some as a sample in their gift bag once a few years ago and used up every single ounce I could manage out of that little container. I will probably do the same with this Olay Night Cream, because I'm so happy with it, especially at around $10 instead of $40 for the Clinique! It leaves your skin fully hydrated and super soft. What more could your skin ask for each night before bed?

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Calling all Reviewers!

Okay, ladies. We need some of your reviews! Once a week we'll be selecting one entry to post on Primp & Tell as a guest review. Keep in mind we aren't just looking for positive reviews - we relish a scathing one as well. Please submit your review along with your own picture of the product. We'll select the review to be posted based on how well it fits with our vision of the website and on the writing. Don't worry about grammatical errors - I'm a champion editor - I actually enjoy it. (That being said, if you ever catch an error that I have missed - please tell me!) Please submit your reviews to primpandtell@gmail.com with the words "Guest Review" in the subject line. We look forward to reading them!

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Tip o' the Day

Okay, girls, we are adding a new little feature to our site here - daily makeup tips that will hopefully help you out of some tough makeup jams, or just teach you how-to. (Although, let's not call it a "daily" tip. We'll call it a "semi-daily" tip. You know, just in case I forget. Which I won't. But just in case.

Today's tip o' the day is one that I know will eliminate a lot of - ahem - colorful language from my morning routine. And here it is:

To remove a makeup smudge without starting over completely, dip a cotton swab into moisturizer and wipe it over the spot. Then blend in any remaining cream.

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L'oreal Beauty Tubes Mascara

When I was in college, one of my boyfriends was badly burned and was in the ER, heavily under the influence of morphine. I’d been there at his bedside for hours, holding his hand and whispering sweet nothings to comfort him. Amid his ramblings of little men walking across the ceiling, he looked lovingly and gratefully into my eyes, crooked his finger so I would come closer and whispered in my ear, “You look like a raccoon.” Thus began my quest for the perfect mascara.

There are many I have tried that I loved in theory, because they made my lashes look amazing and thick and feathery. But by mid-afternoon, I again resembled a raccoon. I don’t like waterproof, because no matter what I have to take it off, short of turpentine, it still stays put. It’s like spackle or something. But finally I found something I really like. It’s L'oreal’s Beauty Tubes Mascara. They aren’t the first ones to employ the beauty tubes technology, but certainly the first to do it affordably. You put on the primer first, then the mascara immediately thereafter. It makes your lashes incredibly long, and literally does NOT smudge AT ALL. Like, seriously, dude, not at all. Seriously. Then you get in the shower, and with some mild soap and warm water, you can literally gently pull the mascara straight off of your lashes. These tiny, thin strings just come off right onto your finger - clean. It doesn’t hurt and nothing gets left behind. It is so much fun to remove, that I think I would wear it even if I didn’t like it. The main positive point for me really is the lack of any smudging or flaking. That being said, it can sometimes get a little sticky by the end of the day, and if you are fortunate enough to get a little cat-nap during the day, be sure to sleep on your back, or your eyelashes will fuse together into one giant wonder-lash - an eyelash that lifts weights and bullies all your other eyelashes. And nobody wants that.

My final conclusion is a mixed one - I do like it a lot, but I have also found another that I like even more, although I do have to deal a little bit with the smudging since I refuse to wear waterproof. This one is also by L'oreal, called L'oreal Double Extend Mascara. It doesn't work using the tubes technology, but it gives you beautiful, long lashes. The other day in the car, Missy turned to me and asked if I was wearing my beloved Beauty Tubes, because she said my lashes looked really good. But it wasn't the Tubes, it was the Double Extend. I can't ever decide on any given day which I will wear - ultimately my decision is made by what I'll be doing that day - do I have the time to deal with smudging or not?

Which brings me to what you've been waiting for: Our giveaway this week will be one L'oreal Beauty Tubes Mascara! We have decided to do things a little differently this time. In lieu of an e-mail entry, please just leave a comment on this post expressing your desire to enter the giveaway. Now, to reward those of you who have made it this far, we'll also be giving away a Maybelline Shiny•Licious Lipgloss - Missy's rave review from last week. We'll be taking entries via comments for the lipgloss as well, but please leave your comments on Missy's review post. Contest will run through 5:00pm CST, Thursday evening. Again, thanks to all of you for reading, and good luck!

**This giveaway is now closed! Thanks for entering!**

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You Ask, We Tell Vol. 2

Julie asks: Do you prefer a pencil eyeliner or a liquid one? Do you stick with black and brown eyeliners or do you ever go for a color? Any application tips?
Kelli tells: My answer is a mixed one of personal opinions and some advice from professionals. I like the way liquid eyeliner looks, but it's way too easy to mess up, and hard to fix. Whereas a pencil, if you mess up, you can just smudge it for a kind of smoky look and you are good to go. There are actually a lot of new powder eyeliners on the market now, my newest find being L'oreal Bare Naturale Gentle Mineral Eyeliner. Stored separately in the cap is an amazing brush. It's very thin and a little stiff and it draws a perfect, liquid-like line. I would buy it for the brush alone. It has great colors that aren't too crazy, like navy, bronze, and olive. That being said, ahem, I LOOOOVE to use bright, unbsubtle colors. When I use a bold liner, sometimes I don't put anything else on. I think that looks quite pretty. Or sometimes I'll use a complementary color, like say navy blue liner with a lighter blue. But also sometimes I'll do fun combos. I've done navy liner and shimmery gold shadow. For those last two options, the shadow has to be subtle though, and just on the lid, not up to the brow bone. But that's not for everyone. It just depends on your taste. I know Missy likes to be more understated, whereas I'll go all out!

Bobbi Brown recommends the following colors for blue eyes: ash, taupe, gray, heather, slate, and lilac. Now here's where I give my two cents, just in case you are wanting extra color. With your red hair, I personally believe you can get away with greens or even teal, but I'd really have to see it on you. Revlon ColorStay has the perfect navy color, it lasts all day, and I think it would look great with blue eyes. The original thinking with makeup was that you should never use the same color as your eyes, but use colors that are the opposite. But more recently, that's getting debunked and some makeup artists even recommend matching, or complementing your eye color. Honestly, it all just depends on self-expression and taste.

As far as application is concerned, for making a smooth line along the upper lashes, Laura Mercier recommends you start at the outer corner and draw a series of dashes with an eye pencil as close to the lashes as possible. Then connect the dots. She said it's the best trick she ever learned.

Vanessa asks: Do they make [Maybelline ShinyLicious Lip Gloss] in any other colors? Is this the best color you saw for red heads?
Missy tells: One thing I've heard people complain about with this gloss is that it doesn't have a lot of pigment in it. This is true of this color, too, but it has a silvery bronze sheen to it, which makes it a more understated but super shiny coat. The lack of pigment would almost mean that any color of this lip gloss would work with most skin tones, and you can change it to your liking with an under layer of lipstick or stain.

That being said, there are a lot of different colors, a couple of which I want to try: Raiz'n Razzle and Sugar Plum. Both are on the neutral side and would be perfect for redheads. But I'm chicken when it comes to doing something daring with my lips, so I'd say try any color you really love and see if it works for you. Lolli Pink has me intrigued for something more springy. :) I may even pick up a new shade today and let you know!

Anonymous asks: I have been struggling with some really crappy skin lately. I have combination skin. Oily and dry. But lately, I have had ridiculous breakouts and ridiculous dry patches to the point where my skin is flaking. You can SEE it. Like I got sunburned or something (which I didn't) and now it's starting to flake. Suggestions? It's so embarrassing! I swear by my Mary Kay products and hesitate to use anything else because my skin is so sensitive. Not sure what to do though. HELP fashionistas!
Missy tells: The first thing I would ask is if you have introduced anything new into your skin care line? Or even a new soap or detergent? If so, stop using anything new immediately and see if there is any improvement in your skin. Sometimes stress or other hormonal problems can cause your skin to go berserk so oftentimes you just have to ride out the storm, so to speak. If your skin gets worse, and nothing you are doing to improve it makes it any better, I would recommend going to go see a dermatologist. Over-the-counter skin care products and cosmetics aren't always the answer to having healthy skin, sometimes seeing a professional is necessary! I noticed that Boots at Target has a new Sensitive skin care line and it looks like that might be an option for you, too, to get your skin really clean and free of any chemicals that might be reacting badly to your skin. Best of luck to you!

Kelli tells: I have heard more people recommend Cetaphil than I ever have anything else. Their regular cleanser is very gentle, and they also have one for sensitive skin. Anytime I have been to the dermatologist, they practically demand I use the whole line! They have great, gentle moisturizers that are also very well-reviewed. It doesn't work for my skin, because I tend to be pretty oily, but it sounds like just the thing for the dry patches you describe. Sometimes people over-treat breakouts, causing more dryness, leading your skin to produce more excess oil - leading to more breakouts. I don't know if this is the case, but if the recommendations we have given don't work, I would definitely say go to the dermatologist. I hope this helps! Good luck!

Shannon asks: OK, now that I know how to exfoliate, what balms do you use that WORK? I have the DRIEST lips ever, and I am constantly peeling them, so that it DOES look like I am an extra in Fight Club! I use Burt's Bees right now, but they are still SO dry!
Kelli tells: Burt's Bees totally dries my lips out. I don't know if it does for everyone, but there you go. Missy is going to be checking several lip balms sometime soon and post the best of the lot. In the meantime, a friend of mine e-mailed us with this tip, which I'm going to start trying tonight; since I'm currently breastfeeding, I just happen to have some of this product in the house:
Amber tells: "After I had my first child (almost 3 years ago) I read on the Lansinoh pure lanolin packaging (normally used for dry, cracked nipples) that it was also good for diaper rash and - wait for it - moisturizing your lips. Ever since my husband and I use it like chapstick and we LOVE IT! So, have you ever heard of this or tried this yourself? If not, I dare you to try it. I put it on at night and in the morning my lips are full and soft as a babies...well you know :)
Seriously it's one of those things that I randomly bring up if someone has chapped lips because it works that well and it last FOREVER. Just the tiniest bit (less than that even) is all you need.
So try it, I dare you! You will never go back to chapstick if you do. I often put it on just after applying lipstick too, it acts much like a lip gloss. You find it in the baby bottle isle with the nursing pads (purple packaging)."

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Congratulations to this week's winners!

And the lucky two are... Shannon Bowers won the Uptempo Plum and Carla Fry won the Jumpin' Jade! Congrats, ladies, and please send us an e-mail with your address so we can get these out to you right away. Enjoy!

In order to achieve our results, all entrants are given a number based on the order of entry, and are then selected using a random number generator.

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Sonia Kashuk Sheer Magic Mineral Face Palette

Being a victim of packaging like I am, I had to buy this product at Target from Sonia Kashuk's line. Everything stacks so nicely and neatly in a compact little container: a concealer, blush, and powder foundation. I loved all three products. The concealer worked better than anything I have tried in a while. It looked natural, not like white raccoon eyes, and it did not settle into my fine lines. It blended right in with the rest of my skin. I was a little skeptical about a powder foundation, and was not completely sure how it was supposed to be applied. I improvised and actually used a foundation brush. It covered so much better than I was thinking it would. My skin evened right out, the powder was not too thick, and in the end my skin just looked like it naturally is even and smooth. It is perfect for someone who doesn't like the feel of makeup and just wants something that feels light but covers well. I love a very pink blush because I think it looks so pretty and natural when blended right, and the pink blush here is gorgeous. The blush gave me that perfectly flushed, healthy glow. Having watched Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist the night before, I was inspired to copy Kat Dennings' look in the movie. Her skin is flawless, and she wore black liner on the top lid with bold red lips – very 40s retro. She’s gorgeous, and I used to wear that look more, but haven’t in a while. I was inspired by how nice my skin looked to try it again, and I just loved the entire finished look and I definitely recommend this, especially for those who don’t like to wear a lot of makeup. At $14.99, it’s well worth it, especially as it contains all three basics.

I realize most of my reviews have been quite positive. But thou shalt not worry - I have some duds to post about in the future.

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Welcome, The One Stop Gift Shop!

Welcome to our newest sponsor! Mariah is an Etsy store owner and one super crafty chick! The One Stop Gift Shop is one of those great Etsy sites that has anything you might need for a quick gift for a friend, a cute pair of earrings for everyday wear, or something to satisfy your hankering for handmade goodness! Check her shop out and let her know that Primp and Tell sent you!

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Garnier Fructis Leave-in Conditioning Cream

I read a lot of beauty and fashion magazines. And nine times out of ten, when they ask a model, gorgeous celebrity or famous hair-stylist how they create such enviable, beachy waves, they have the same answer. "At night, apply leave-in conditioner and wrap hair up in a bun. Take it down in the morning and VOILA!" I wanted it to be true because I am a faithful night bather. I cannot go to bed without a shower, which means I either blow-dry my hair at night while I'm exhausted out of my mind, or I go to bed with wet hair. And we all know how that can turn out, not to mention totally uncomfortable. Since I've had my third baby, time is so limited that I don't have time to flat-iron my hair in the morning or even condition it most days, so when I saw Garnier Fructis's Leave-in Conditioning Cream on the shelf I decided to give the old "conditioner in a bun" thing a whirl. Um, it totally works! I loved my hair the next day. Not only did it look great, but it was also so very soft.

But there's more. One night, I went to bed with wet hair and didn't pull it back. The entire next day, my hair was a complete snarled, frizzy mess. We were going to have dinner with friends, and I needed an emergency bad-hair solution. I grabbed the leave-in conditioner and worked it through my hair. It smoothed and straightened right up. I parted it on the side and worked it into a sleek, low ponytail, which of course called for big gold hoop earrings. I loved the look - even though I was wearing a plain t-shirt, ratty jeans and flip-flops, I felt foxy. And really isn't feeling foxy more than half the battle? Plus, my hairstyle stayed strong through a chaotic dinner with good friends and lots of kids, and all the way through wrangling my boys to bed. This product is going to be a staple in my arsenal for a long time to come.

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Maybelline Shiny•Licious Lip Gloss

I'm not the kind of person that likes bold lip color. Even using lip stain is a stretch for me, though it's perfect if I want a more dramatic look. But I love a really great shiny gloss. I steered away from those lip juices because they seemed too runny and always rubbed off to quickly. But I really love these great little tubes of lip gloss. They're thick enough to have longer wear, but the shine is the best part. I use #70 Caramella and it's such a perfect shiny coat of everyday wearable gloss that I carry two tubes. One for my purse and one in my car. And it's a steal for around $6. One tube will last me a good two months! And if you really want to set off your lip stains, pair it with these glosses and you've got an amazing combination.

The giveaway for this product is now closed! Thanks for entering!

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Primpin' Magazine Deal!

I'm a sucker for a beautiful photo shoot, so I followed the links on Yahoo's homepage to a photo shoot of Katie Holmes in Glamour Magazine. At the end of the slideshow, they advertised a really good promotion. For their 70th anniversary, they are offering a full year of the magazine for their 1939 price of $1.50! That's just $1.50 for the entire year! The catch is you can't select "Bill Me Later," you have to give them a credit card number right away, but I think it's worth it. It's a really great magazine with beautiful clothes, makeup, and fun articles. Enjoy!

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Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Nail Color

When I was 20, my roommate had a penchant for green nail polish. I hated it. I remember the first time I looked down and saw it on her toes, I almost jumped out of my skin and exclaimed, “HOLY CRAP! Kori! You have fungus on your toes!” And I really thought she did. Although green is tied for my favorite color, I’ve never warmed to the idea of it as a nail polish.

About six months ago, one of my magazines said dark green was the newest trend in nail color. (Regrettably, I cannot remember which magazine, but Google “green nail polish trend.” I kid you not.) I’m not one to follow a trend just for the sake of the trend, but because the green was so dark, it actually looked kind of slick, and – dare I say – hot. I immediately began looking for some like what I saw in the magazine, but there were none. Just that same pale, fungus color. But finally, one day, a green polish jumped off of the shelf and into my grubby little paws. The polish is Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Nail Color, the name is Jumpin’ Jade, but I wouldn’t really consider the color jade - it is a beautiful, deep emerald green and is very chic. Nothing fungus-y about it. The name is also not a lie: it dries fast. It's a great buy at around $4.99. Of course, green is not for everyone, and there are lots of fabulous colors in the same line: midnight blue, black-purple, although with more imaginative names, of course. I also bought the Uptempo Plum, a very deep shimmery purple.

I went back later and bought one extra in those same colors to pass on to two of you! Please e-mail us at primpandtell@gmail.com to enter to win this giveaway! Again, you have until Thursday at 5 pm to submit your entry. Please specify in the e-mail which color you prefer, and we’ll actually hold two separate drawings. That way, someone who hates green won’t end up with green nail polish! Thanks for reading, invite your friends, and good luck!

**This giveaway is now closed! Thanks for entering!**

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Our First Sponsor!

We are so excited to introduce you to Primp and Tell's first sponsor! Shellie is an independent consultant for Scentsy, a wickless candle company offering unique alternatives to wick candles:

Party Wickless with Scentsy Wickless Candles. Scentsy offers 50 beautiful warmers, 12 plug-ins and over 80 scents available in wax bars, room sprays and car candles!

What better way to primp your home than to include these safe and affordable alternatives to wick candles! Please check out their collection of wonderful products and tell Shellie that Primp and Tell sent you!

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