Maybelline Colossal Volume Express Mascara

If you haven't noticed, we love mascara. We buy lots of it and hardly ever wear the same tube twice in a row. I've tried countless numbers of mascara over the years and have love/hate relationships with most of them. This mascara is no different, but I still kind of love it!

I bought it after being extremely disappointed with Maybelline Stiletto Mascara. This one says it's for tons of volume and even contains collagen. The first time I used this I loved it, mostly because I sat there and applied it in one sitting. But I was working full-time at the time and often applied my first coat of mascara in the car then the rest in the parking lot at work. That's when I started hating it. Because that's just not a good idea and I did it anyway, much to the dismay of my lashes.

Now that I'm, well, a victim of the current economic climate, I have a bit more time to apply my make up. And I'm totally loving this stuff. The package says it applies in one coat, but I have to put on more than one. I just have to. This goes on really smooth, covers your lashes fast and the collagen I swear helps keep your lashes from sticking together and getting spidery. The brush is full and stiff and awesome. I can apply 5 or 6 coats if I want a crazy dramatic full look and my lashes STILL won't stick together. I love it. I originally paid $6.99 for it at Walmart then went and picked up a double pack at Target for $6.49 last week. I'm sure when I've used up these two tubes I'll move on to another — I'm that fickle. But it's a love affair I'm enjoying while it lasts.

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Neutrogena Radiance Boost Eye Cream

I am currently unhappy with the concealer I use (a cheap one from Cover Girl) so when I was out shopping one day I decided to get a new one. Well, I couldn't find one to settle on, and the one I really wanted was $12. I didn't have that to spend, but since I needed a new under eye cream anyway I grabbed this Neutrogena Radiance Boost Eye Cream on clearance for $6 at Target (oh how I love Target).

I use this in combination with the cheap concealer and it works really well! This under eye cream works perfect on its own, but I have to conceal my under eye circles with a little color because they have a bluish tint. A tiny little dab goes a really long way and it smooths on and dries really quick. You'll feel a slight tingle and it instantly brightens and smooths out underneath my eyes. I'm not sure if I love this so much because I WANTED to love it or because it really works well, or both? Either way I use this every single morning and often reapply it later in the day when I'm feeling a little fatigued.

Normally this runs about $10 but I still think it's worth it. A super small tube that fits in your makeup bag, perfect for a quick pick-me-up for your face during those long hours of the day!

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Revlon Super Lustrous Lip Gloss

A few weeks ago I ran to the store to pick out another shade of this lip gloss. I just couldn't find one that I liked in that same brand so I checked around at all the other lip glosses. I finally decided on this Revlon Super Lustrous Lip Gloss in Foiled for around $6. I'm a lip gloss kind of girl, I've never been a huge fan of lip sticks and stains come in handy ever so often, but I never make them a consistent habit.

Not only do I love lip gloss, I love really shiny lip gloss. Back in my college days when I could spend money on more fanciful things, I would buy Mac Lip Glass. There's something about the way it reflects the light that mesmerizes me! So when I saw that this gloss has light reflecting spheres I was definitely willing to give it a try. Plus it's loaded with moisturizers and even has SPF 15 so really, you can't go wrong.

And it is SO SHINY. The first week I had it I must have applied it 10+ times a day just because it was so super shiny. But therein lies the downfall of lip gloss, you have to reapply it all the time and it's super sticky. Frankly, though, I don't mind. The only time I really wanted to wipe it off was when I was at an outdoor photo shoot and the wind was blowing so hard my hair kept sticking to my lips. Highly annoying, but also a unique case.

All in all I love this gloss. The color is really similar to many other glosses I've used, but it's the shine and the moisturizer and SPF that really seal the deal for me!

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Aveeno Ultra Calming Daily Moisturizer

I mentioned this moisturizer in a Q&A a while back, but wanted to give you my full review. I bought this at Target for around $12 one day when all Aveeno products were 10% off. If you love Aveeno products, you probably always buy them when they're on sale because it happens so infrequently, and they tend to range on the more expensive side of the aisle.

Someone I used to work with recommended I buy Aveeno moisturizers and when I was at the store I couldn't remember which one they said to buy. I grabbed this one and discovered a couple of days later it was the wrong one. I am not one to just run out and spend another $12 on moisturizer so I have been using this one for a couple of months, waiting for it to run out so I can get Aveeno’s Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer.

That being said, this stuff isn't bad by any means. It's just not great. I'm not a fan of the smell, or the texture. And even though I have sensitive skin, this stuff is for people with REALLY sensitive skin, perhaps even if you are prone to major skin irritation on your face. The SPF 15 is definitely a big plus, but most Aveeno moisturizers have it. It keeps my skin pretty well hydrated, but I don't like the texture of my skin after I use it. I'm used to how soft other products leave my skin and so I was pretty disappointed.

Buy this moisturizer if you have really sensitive skin. Don't buy it if you're looking for something ultra moisturizing and skin softening. This one just didn't cut it for me, but I'm nearly out so I'll give you all a heads up on how I feel about Positively Radiant!

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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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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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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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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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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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Paul Mitchell Daily Boost Root Lifter

I got my haircut a few months ago at one of those salons that's in the same strip mall as a grocery store. I know that's taking a huge risk, but I'd been there before and they always do a great job. This time they did not disappoint. I got a better cut there than the $40 I spent the few months before at a real salon and for half the price.

Like most salons they always try to get you to buy products before you leave. I always say no. My haircut this time was SHORT so I knew I'd need some sort of volumizing tool. So I checked out their clearance table and picked up a bottle of Paul Mitchell Daily Boost Root Lifter for $6 (half price). The stuff is amazing, but it's a little sensitive. Put on too little and you can't tell a difference. Put on too much and it'll add too much coarseness and you won't be able to slide your flat iron through your hair.

BUT pair the right amount with a round brush and flat iron and you have amazing salon-styled looking hair. I love this stuff; I don't know if I will be able to live without it! I know I'm crazy. But even my husband uses it - it works that well. You can find it at almost any salon and I even found some for around $12 at the salon in the Walmart by our house. If you have thin or short hair - no matter what kind of hair - and want a little volume, I promise you will love it!

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CoverGirl Outlast Lip Stain

Introducing our First Giveaway!!!

Consider me a product of all of the movies that take place in days of yore, where the heroine is always a fresh-faced, pink-cheeked maiden with beautiful berry lips. Since before I started wearing makeup, I longed for that perfect sheer crimson lip, the one that looks as if the owner of said lips was just born under a lucky star and effused that “flushed and bruised from a good, hard kiss” look.

I really have (almost) found my perfect lip stain. While most others are straight liquid, it is hard to get them to stay within the lip line, and oftentimes they will actually drip. Or they just go on too heavy, not heavy enough, or they fade. When I saw the magazine ad for Cover Girl’s new lip stain, I was beyond excited, and started looking in the aisles when I visited the store immediately. I luckily did not have to wait long, and I promptly bought three different colors: Wild Berry Wink, Teasing Blush, and Flirty Nude. I love them. They work just like a marker – it’s a Sharpie for your lips! You can literally line your lips and just draw it right in. I highly recommend wearing a balm over it, as it can be a bit drying, but not as bad as most other long-lasting lipsticks, which make my lips peel almost instantly. My favorite is the Wild Berry Wink, a gorgeous red that looks bold but not slutty. The darker colors do tend to settle into the lines of your lips a bit, but a tiny reapplication will solve that. Just make sure your lips are well-exfoliated before applying, or you’ll look like an extra in Fight Club, and then finish with lip-balm or lip-gloss. Then go make out for a really long time.

I recommended it to Missy, and she bought the Cinnamon Smile, which I have since also bought, but I’ll let her put in her two cents.

Missy's take: Kelli introduced me to this great lip stain a few weeks ago and the very next day I headed to Target to grab one in Cinnamon Smile, but they were sold out. Luckily, Kelli found one at her Target, and picked it up for me. You can usually get them there for around $8 or for about $10 at the drugstore.

The first time I put this on I was instantly thrown back to being about 6 or 7 years old. I loved scented markers because they had a funny taste to them and would often use them as lipstick, much to the dismay of my mother. It is honestly so much like those old markers that it kind of weirded me out at first! But I was sold when I realized that it works perfect and lasts a long time!

I don't like a really deeply tinted lipstick since I have smaller lips so I use this mainly as an under-layer for my gloss to give it a little more color. I love the Cinnamon shade since it's brown with just the right amount of red tinting to it. It glides on smooth and you can saturate it for a really dramatic look or put on a thin layer for something more subtle.

Please e-mail us at primpandtell@gmail.com to enter our giveaway. We will be giving two of you a CoverGirl Outlast Lip Stain. You have until Thursday at 5 pm to enter, and we'll announce the winners Friday before 10 am! Good luck!

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

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Maybelline Lash Stiletto Mascara

I have naturally long curly eyelashes. Most of my sisters have to use eyelash curlers so I have no idea how I got so lucky. So ultimately when I'm looking for a new mascara I go for a little more length, but I also need a little volume. I'd seen commercials for this Maybelline mascara and was really excited to try it. It's around $8 at the drug store which is higher than the usual $5 I like to pay. (I know I'm cheap.)

First glance this mascara is cool. Sleek black packaging, cool metallic red tip. Right away it made me think of Christian Louboutins. Shoes I could never afford. I love great product packaging and containers and will half the time pick one product over another because it looks cooler.

Anyway. My first reaction to this stuff is that it stinks. I've never thought of mascara as having a smell before, but this stuff definitely has a smell to it, and it's not a good one. And considering you have to put the stuff so close to your nose, that doesn't bode well for the final product. Unfortunately, the smell wasn't the worst thing about this mascara. The brush is spiky with short bristles. Which is pretty much how it made my eyelashes.

I think it tries to "pull" and "tug" on your lashes to make them longer which actually kind of hurts. And the fact that the bristles are so short makes it harder to get the volume I like in a mascara. It takes a lot of coats to get a proper look but it's flaky and doesn't hold up to hours of wear. Needless to say I'm totally disappointed. I actually went back to my old soon to be nearly dried out mascara till I can find a new one I like better.

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About Primp and Tell

About Kelli
C R E A T O R

Hi, I’m Kelli and I love cosmetics. A LOT. I love skin products and eye shadow colors. I love lip stains and under-eye concealers. I love hair conditioners and anti-wrinkle creams. Give me some shimmery powder and a non-smudging mascara, and I’m yours forever. I'm OBSESSED with nail polish.  I have a vast and ever-growing collection.  I read beauty and fashion magazines like they are the manual to life (they aren’t, but still so very fun). But I’m also a mother of four on a strict budget, and it always makes me laugh in magazine spreads where they put their “budget-friendly” buys—where “budget-friendly” only means it’s a $95 face cream instead of the $175 one. Whose budget is that?! I’m easily suckered in by the promises on a label or magazine ad. And my cabinets are full of stuff I used a few times and gave up because they didn’t deliver. If you are like me, then this website is for you. Here is where I'll report my results on the products I love—or hate.  I'll also indulge in some light celebrity gossip and fashion criticism (not that I'm any kind of expert) and give my take on some of the more absurd magazine articles and cover looks.



About Missy
C O N T R I B U T O R

I'm Missy. I'm a working mom and wife and commit lots of fashion and style faux pas. I leave my make-up on when I go to sleep, I buy most of my beauty products at Target and I condition and flat iron my hair every single day. I started wearing make-up when I was 13 years old. Now 15 years later, I've mastered some skills (eyes), fretted over others (cheeks, eek!), and only dream of discovering the secrets to perfect skin. With red hair, brown eyes and fair skin, tackling the primping world is never easy, but I love a challenge, and I never EVER leave the house without make-up on! Here I'll dish more of my primping faux pas, show you my go-to favorite products, great new finds, and help save you time and money.

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