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Canadian Beauty

Canadian Beauty

Y. Beauty’s Rut! (Help me!) – Y. Beauty

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


Hello my beauties!

I know, I know… it’s been awhile. Instead of giving some lame excuse about being extremely busy (which I have been), I want to be honest and admit that I have been in such a beauty rut! Any spare moment I have had to write a new post, I honestly couldn’t think of anything that truly felt worth writing about.

When I started this blog, my plan was never to have a blog just for the sake of having a blog. My mission objective was always to be completely honest and share with all of you what products and/or treatments I am truly loving. If I haven’t mentioned a product yet, it doesn’t necessarily mean I haven’t tried it. I will only write about things that worked for me or for my clients. With that said, there are times (which I am sure many of you have endured yourself) where my beauty routine just seems, “meh.” This just happens to be one of those times.

For weeks, I tried switching up products and testing new looks just to get some inspiration. Although it was fun, I still found that I had nothing worth writing about. Nothing stood out to me.

BUT THEN…. it hit me!

[Side Note: For some reason, most of my blog post ideas seem to come to me when I am in the shower!?]

I realized that instead of racking my brain to try and come up with inspiration and ideas, what I should be doing is racking all of YOUR brains! So, I am enlisting all of your help. I have come up with a list of products and treatments that I am on the hunt for and I want you all to give me your advice. Have you tried a waterline eyeliner that doesn’t move throughout the day? Please, tell me about it! Or is there a treatment that you recently had done (i.e. facial) and your results were amazing – I beg you, tell me about it!

This post will be a 2-part series. This week, I want you all to give me your product recommendations, advice, opinions, pretty much anything beauty-related that you are loving. Next week, I will share all of the answers I get and perhaps I will pick-up some suggested goodies between now and then to try out for myself.

Your mission, should you choose to accept it…

  1. Black waterline eyeliner that stays put all day!
  2. Perfume (I have my staples, but I am always looking for a new scent)
  3. Cleanser
  4. Moisturizer (I have sensitive, combination skin)
  5. Eye cream
  6. Lip chap
  7. Lipsticks, lip glosses, etc.
  8. Cuticle cream/care (my cuticles always seem to be dry no matter how much I moisturize my hands!)
  9. Treatments/Services: Facials, massages, masks, body scrubs, etc.
  10. Concealer (I love finding good quality concealers that work!)
  11. Foundation
  12. Beauty tools – makeup brushes, beauty sponges, hair accessories, etc.
  13. Anti-aging products
  14. Dark spot corrector
  15. Curly hair products
  16. Brush cleaners
  17. Eyeshadow palettes

Do you have any other beauty tips or finds? I want to hear about it! Either let me know in the comment section below or email me at yasminpabdo@gmail.com with your answers.

I can’t wait to hear from you!

That’s Y!


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Canadian Beauty

On January and Weight Loss

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


Putting it out there because I want to practice what I preach.
My take on the awesome #EveryWomanIsAnAngel hashtag with Knixwear

The first time I was praised for losing weight I was eight years old. I shed some pounds the summer before grade 3 because of a heartfelt obsession with skipping rope and wearing my Skip-Its (remember those?) ragged. I was not skipping to lose weight- it was just fun and it brought me joy. But as a chubby kid, people noticed. “Wow, you’ve slimmed down!”, they said, and, as a child, I just had to smile and nod and assume that was a good thing. Perhaps it was in those moments that exercise lost its joy for me; instead, it was a means to get smaller and, consequently, receive more praise.

Can you tell it was the early ’90s!?
Tanned and happy after a summer of breaking three Skip-Its due to over-use.

Unfortunately, this was not the first time that I was made aware of my weight, and of being different because of it. I always wanted to join a dance class, but felt that I was too chubby to do ballet. I would eagerly do Jane Fonda workouts with my mom (so delightfully 80s) and long to look like the tall, lean, spandex-clad women on the screen. I was probably five years old the first time I had the awareness that I was a chubby kid and that this wasn’t the best thing to be.

I won’t write a long melodrama about how my weight and body image continued to affect me growing up, but I’ll say in brief that, despite having some pretty awesome qualities as a child, adolescent, and young adult (I was smart and kind, had a sense of humor, had some incredible, supportive friends), my weight it what shaped my identity most profoundly. I always thought I was the fattest girl in the room, I thought I was too heavy to wear what I wanted, I truly believed that I would be properly humiliated if I ever asked a boy out. I did not start dating until my mid-20s because it took me that much life experience to muster the courage.

Fast-forward and I have truly come so, so far in the realm of self-love and body acceptance. I know from many angles (as a therapist and a recipient of therapy) that facing your fears is the best way to conquer them and build confidence. Delving into dating and realizing that I could be liked and loved as I was was simply huge for me. But also, luckily, I was able to build love for myself from within also, not only from the validation and acceptance from others. There was no major turning point, but I think my yoga practice turned on a switch in me- oh, it’s about loving and nurturing your body, being in the moment, feeling it all- and if you lose weight, that’s just a side-effect of the practice. The discovery of larger-bodied yoga teachers was also monumental. Someone who looks like me can do a headstand? They can be accomplished enough to teach? They don’t have to get skinny first? Sounds pretty basic, but taking this all in was really a game-changer for me.

I was prompted to start furiously writing this essay because of the time of year- January, New Year’s resolutions, and the media’s inevitable obsession with and fixation on weight loss. This year, more than ever before, all of this is getting on my last nerve. There seems to be this ubiquitous obsession with losing weight, number of pounds lost, with the promotion of actual health like some faded issue in the background. But seriously, it has been ingrained in most of us: that losing weight is inherently healthy, right? That I can assume someone is definitely healthier after losing weight and that they are clearly unhealthy if overweight. Right? It has really taken years of deprogramming for me to step aside from this mindset.

I have come to understand that you cannot assume a person’s health based on the size of their body. Many fat people are actually quite healthy. Many thin people are unhealthy. I do not want to present myself as some pinnacle example, but, even at my most fit (I’d say when I got pregnant, the Summer of 2017, after I’d been practicing yoga 5-6 days per week), my weight still rendered me clinically obese. My blood pressure, resting heart rate, and cholesterol levels were all perfect (as they had always been), I was perfectly mobile and could keep up in any typical yoga class. I had no chronic or acute medical problems. And yet my body size and BMI would undoubtedly render me unhealthy in the opinions of many doctors and armchair health gurus on Instagram. Yes, you can be fat and fit. “Obese” and healthy. That may still sound wrong to many of you, but we’ve all been so primed to believe otherwise.

With this mentality at the forefront, I’ve been especially bothered this year by all of the talk shows pontificating about weight loss this time of year. They parade larger-bodied women and men around like problems that need to be fixed. Lean women and muscle-bound men play the common role as superiors and and the larger-bodied “contestants” drink it all in and try to learn how to be a better person by becoming smaller. I know I’m painting the scene with a broad brush (I don’t want to assert that all larger-bodied people are victims,without agency), but this is a scene I’ve witnessed over and over and I’m ready to change the channel.

Let me just say, there is nothing wrong with being a thin or lean woman. Or with exercising regularly or having big muscles, or with being a personal trainer or a healthy-eating chef. All bodies are good bodies and being strong is awesome! So is eating well. My beef, so to speak, is with the unwavering, conditioned belief that smaller equals better and that we are shameful, bad people if we don’t fit the mold or have the occasional slice of pizza. It’s with the unquestioned assumption that “yes, this woman has some fat on her body. She must be fixed and must really want to be fixed. She’ll be a better person if she gets smaller and we must all applaud her shrinking”.

This post isn’t going to culminate in some sweeping thesis or conclusion, but I’m pretty sure my main message is an urge to focus on actual health, rather than weight loss. These are not the same things. When we praise someone on weight loss alone, we don’t know if we’re reinforcing some sort of illness or disordered eating or exercise in the process. We can aim to focus on health without assuming the health of someone based on their size and without assuming that someone with a certain (often larger) body type must need or want to “get healthy”.

So yes, I do have goals this January, but I am choosing to remove the scale from the equation. My lack of yoga practice since I got pregnant has been disappointing to me; not because my body has become softer and a bit weaker, but because my regular practice was so vital to my mental health and overall well-being. I have started Yoga with Adriene’s 30 Days of Yoga Dedicate program and feel truly proud to have completed seven yoga practices in the past seven days. I’m thrilled to be finding the time for myself with a baby at home. To reconnect with an activity that fuels me so well, mind and body.

I’m excited to feel stronger and more flexible and even for egotistical pursuits like looking better in certain yoga poses for those Instagram selfies (keeping it totally real). If I shed some weight in the process, ok. But you will not hear me telling you what the scale says, because I won’t be looking. I’ll be feeling out for length and strength, deeper breaths, satisfying perspiration, and moments of peace. I’ll be moving and engaging and feeding my body well because I love it, not hate it. Especially now with a daughter, it is my utmost goal to make this the mantra of our home. She can run, play, dance, and move her body in any way that will bring her joy, but the size, expansion, or contraction of her body will not be a subject of my commentary. I cannot fully protect her from the pressures of the world, but if my change of attitude aids her in her own self-love, even in a small way, then my own process of self-love has truly reached its pinnacle.


I know this is not the most coherent, thorough, or groundbreaking discussion of self-love and weight loss out there, but I’m hoping it maybe resonates in some ways or starts a conversation. Would love to hear from you! 


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Canadian Beauty

Multi-Use Products for Easy Summer Beauty |

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


Looking for high-impact, low-effort products for your summer beauty routine? Look no further than multi-use products for lip, cheek and more! We’ve rounded up our three faves – each with a different formula – to help you find the perfect double (or triple!) threat for your makeup bag.

During the summer, the last thing I want to do is feel like I’ve got a full face of makeup on. Don’t get me wrong: I still want to play with colour and look put-together; I just don’t want to mess around with 10 different products to achieve the look. It’s just too dang hot to deal with all that! Enter: the multi-use lip & cheek. These formulas have maximum payoff with minimum effort, leaving you more time for summer fun.

Our three faves are:

  • Tower 28’s OneLiner Pencil
  • KJH Brand’s Soft Smudge Lip & Cheek
  • Milk Makeup’s Cooling Water Jelly Tint

Each of these has a different formula but is a multi-hyphenate powerhouse, taking the place of 2-4 products in your kit. Read on to find out more about each one!

Tower 28’s OneLiner Multi-Liner

I have been using this multi-use product daily since it was released, and it has racked up its fair share of celeb fans, too. (Billie Eilish, for starters!) I love that it’s compact, mess-free, requires no brushes for application, and comes in six gorgeous shades.

In addition, Tower 28’s OneLiner ($22 at Sephora) is vegan and fragrance-free, so it doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin. It also has a long-wear formula that isn’t drying, meaning you don’t have to worry about reapplying or unwanted flakiness.

Wearing Tower 28’s OneLiner Multi-Liner in Work of Art

OneLiner has a beautiful glide – no tugging at the eyes! – and blends seamlessly with just your fingers. I also love that I get a good amount of payoff per application without having to sharpen the pencil each time.

If you have oilier skin or are looking for a multi-use product that isn’t cream-based, I highly recommend you check out Tower 28’s OneLiner!

KJH Brand’s Soft Smudge Lip & Cheek

When a world-renowned makeup artist and educator launches their own line, you know it’s going to be good! Katie Jane Hughes is all about empowering people to understand and embrace how makeup works for them. She decided to put her decades of experience in development and artistry towards creating the products she always wished for, and KJH Brand was born!

I’ve raved about their Hyper Shine Light Pigment for years (I got to test it shortly before the launch, which was a dream!), but a hot new bombshell has entered the KJH villa: Soft Smudge Lip & Cheek ($30).

Wearing KJH Brand’s Soft Smudge Lip & Cheek in Soft Berry

This multi-use product has an innovative cream-to-powder formula, meaning it applies easily but has insane long-wear power and doesn’t transfer. Available in five stunning shades, ranging from bright coral to deep raisin, Soft Smudge is buildable, allowing you to go from sheer to bold in just a few swipes. You can apply it with a brush for a more blurred application, or direct from the tube for higher impact.

 And –  as with all KJH Brand products – Soft Smudge is designed to play well with others. Add a drop of KJH’s Hyper Shine Serum and the formula becomes opaque and glossy. Mix in some of the Hyper Shine Lite Pigment and you’ve got a sumptuous glow. The applications are endless! (Which is kind of the whole point.)

Milk Makeup’s Cooling Water Jelly Tint

This groundbreaking multi-use product shook the beauty world upon its launch, and though it has since been imitated, its innovation has never been replicated. Milk Makeup’s Cooling Water Jelly Tint ($36 at Sephora) is truly one of the coolest (ha!) products I have ever encountered, and I use it daily. It has mad payoff (seriously; a little goes a long way) and feels incredible on the skin, providing long-lasting, juicy colour with basically no effort.

Available in six gorgeous shades plus one pH-adaptive tint, there is truly a Cooling Water Jelly Tint for every mood. (I have three different colours and will probably buy the full range eventually!) The jelly formula encapsulates the pigment to keep it moist, giving the product a longer shelf life than most stains and maintaining the high-impact colour.

This lip & cheek tint also contains vegan collagen, aloe, and seawater to soothe, plump, and hydrate the skin. The whole “cooling” aspect isn’t just marketing – this multi-use product feels genuinely refreshing on your skin! Exactly what you need during the muggy summer months.

Multi-Love for Multi-Use Products!

The benefits of a multi-use product reach beyond ease of use. Financially, you’re saving money by purchasing one item instead of a few different ones. Ecologically, you’re creating less waste. And, for us condo dwellers, saving space in one’s makeup drawer is a game-changer. Each of these is reason enough to explore using products that work double- or triple-duty, but when the products themselves are this good, it’s an absolute no-brainer!

Whether you’re looking for a multi-use product to reduce your consumption, to save money, time, or space, or simply because you love the products, I hope this has helped you decide which multi-use product might be right for you.

Which multi-use product is your summer must-have?  


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Canadian Beauty

The Ultimate Guide to 13 Fashion-Forward Travel Destinations in 2024

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


In the kaleidoscopic world of fashion, where creativity meets culture, and trends transcend boundaries, lies the allure of exploration for the style aficionado. Imagine embarking on a global odyssey, not just to witness the spectacle of the world’s fashion capitals but to immerse yourself in the very essence of style innovation and heritage.

For those with a penchant for fashion, the globe offers an array of destinations where the streets are akin to runways and the air vibrates with the buzz of design revolution. This journey is not merely about observing; it’s about experiencing the pulsating heart of fashion across continents. 

From hidden boutiques brimming with avant-garde pieces to bustling markets that showcase traditional crafts, each destination offers a unique narrative, a story waiting to be worn. Among these narratives, Sneakerzone.dk stands out as a haven for those who appreciate the art of sneakers, blending seamlessly into the fabric of fashion destinations with its cutting-edge selections.

So, pack your most stylish suitcase and prepare your wardrobe for an infusion of inspiration, as we unveil the 13 top destinations in the world every fashion lover must visit. Join us on a sartorial adventure that promises to dazzle your senses and elevate your style quotient to new heights.

13 Top Destinations in The World to Visit for Fashion Lovers

1. Paris, France

Fashion is leading in Paris, and this city requires no introduction. Everywhere one looks in this place of haute couture, one sees style and elegance.

The capital of France stands apart from other destinations with the Champs-Élysées and trendy Marais district, where iconic fashion houses and hidden boutiques await. However, what Paris stands for is its vibrant growth in vintage fashion.

This is due to the fact that its timeless styles have been repeated in the city for many years now and are never replaced. Discover the barely used looks from the ‘90s shops like Thanx God I’m a V.I.P. and Tilt Vintage to find vintage Dior pieces that have their own stories about fashion.

2. Geneva, Switzerland

Geneva easily belongs to the best skincare category. This Swiss metropolis is the home to the top five luxury skincare brands in the world that actually utilize water from the glaciers of the Swiss Alps. Along with Valmont Cosmetics and La Prairie, these are not the only high-quality brands that combine the purest ingredients with the purest Swiss water.

For instance, the water source used by Valmont is Val d’Herens, and the signature ingredients, including sea buckthorn and calendula flowers, are grown under full Swiss sunlight and without using any pesticides. In case you fancy something to really treat yourself, Geneva is home to the ultimate luxury skincare offers.

3. Milan, Italy

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y5ugSUIE4VQ

Milan, the city that proudly wears the cap of the fashion capital of Italy, is a storehouse for all the fashion-mongers. High-end fashion houses such as Prada and Gucci are only a part of the city’s image; what Milan is actually known for is cashmere and leather.

For those seeking a touch of olfactory opulence to complement their luxurious vibe, explore the enticing range of the best Gucci perfumes, adding an exquisite fragrance to your Milanese experience.

The likes of Brunello Cucinelli and Loro Piana have established Milan as the selective best for luxurious cashmere products. Visit their stores to see the best cashmere sweaters, scarves, and many other products. And with regards to leather, Milan has every aspect covered.

From jackets to boots to stylish winter gloves, you will be sourcing superior craftsmanship and classic aesthetics. You should also not pass by the Valextra flagship store or Il Bisonte in Santo Spirito for quality fashionable leather and high-end leather goods.

4. New Delhi, India

Travelers enjoy captivating New Delhi’s kaleidoscope of colors and textures, which seem to never cease. In terms of jewelry, New Delhi is an open cupboard. Walk through some of the well-established gemstone and diamond stores in the area and enjoy the silver and jewel-encrusted creations.

So, there were a couple of well-renowned shops, such as Khanna Jewellers and Hazoorilal Jewellers, where you could find rare jewelry with message patterns. And if you are looking for silk and other fabrics, then the Chandni Chowk is a wonderful place.

This amazing market showcases innumerable materials that you will hardly come across anywhere else. While New Delhi has a lot to offer in terms of jewelry and silk items, take a dive in the culturally varied elements of the city and shop for exquisite jewelry and silk items.

5. Johannesburg, South Africa

Johannesburg, South Africa

Johannesburg, however, could be described as a city that is more in love with creativity and street style than any other place in the world. Visit the old industrial complexes turned into shopping malls, for example, Stanley 44 and Victoria Yards, where you can witness the merger of streetwear and high-fashion talent. Such special places attract nature and those who boast the energetic character of Jo’burg, with green spaces and striking stores.

For lovers of leather, Chiefs of Angels (formerly Dry Bone Co.) and Colony Design should both be top spots on one’s ‘to-see’ list. There are art galleries, luxury shopping, the art scene, and even streetwear in Johannesburg.

6. Los Angeles, California

There is more to Los Angeles than Rodeo Drive and the famous luxury fashion house. This city is a safe haven for boutique shopping where the ‘small bodies’ have an opportunity to show off their products, mostly their cutting-edge designs.

Uncover your new go–to wardrobe basics at Fred Segal, The Odells, and LVIR boutiques, giving you a range of rare and selective collections. Be it a time-honored linen skirt or the trendiest midi-boots, LA’s boutiques have got you worry-free. The Row DTLA is a destination for the indo-informed shopper seeking out the effortlessly cool LA fashion and scene.

7. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo, Japan Street Fashion

Tokyo is a city that works as a fashion trendsetter and is a source of fashion innovations. Be amazed at the city’s most exclusive shopping area, Ginza, or get engrossed in the hypes and whirlwinds of streetwear and vintage culture in the areas of Shimokitazawa and Harajuku.

The cuts in Tokyo’s art scene are next-gen, with every new design being almost a history of the past. Do not miss Matsuya, the biggest Muji store in the world, which is the place where the world of fashion and lifestyles meet.

8. Bali, Indonesia

Though Bali is not so popular as a place for big design houses or fashion events, it has become a home for bohemian chic and leisurewear. Particularly, Seminyak gave birth to a fashion movement that illustrates the combination of bohemian style and comfort.

From bespoke local boutiques along the city’s streets, find standout labels like Auguste Label, Magali Pascal, Little Joe Women by supermodel Gail Elliott, and Paulina Katarina. Plunge into the calm and mellow atmosphere of Bali, and stroll through pieces that are unique, but cool at the same time.

9. Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a bastion of trade and commerce, but that’s not to say that its fashion industry is worthy of the same respect. This cosmopolitan city also boasts a diversity of styles, from luxury to street, combining Eastern and Western elements.

Wander around Centrestage to see the streetwear scene, and go see what’s happening in Causeway Bay, and Central. Keep an eye on Chiefs of Angels for outstanding leather treasures that capture the colorful creativity of Hong Kong.

10. Seoul, Korea

Seoul is currently going through its cultural thirst, and fashion is a major contributing factor in creating this identity. Seoul has fashion for everyone, from K-Pop to streetwear, so it is no wonder that it is known as one of the most influential cities in the world.

Visit the elegant Garosu-Gil, one of the fashion streets in Seoul, where you will find hip stores and the Simone Handbag Museum. Shop in the bargain stalls of the Namdaemun Market and enjoy a bit of the night-time shopper hunting in the Dongdaemun.

Seoul Fashion Week and Seoul Girls Collection are K-Pop and fashion-meets-K-Pop extravaganzas for planning your trip during these events.

11. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Fashion in Buenos Aires, Argentina

One city that allows you to live in the past decade with its arms wide open is Buenos Aires. Napoleon Bonaparte, for instance, became the emperor of France in 1804 when he overthrew King Louis XVI and his wife Marie Antoinette.

The colorful and energy-filled nature of Buenos Aires Fashion Week is unparalleled, and you will get the chance to see the ingenuity of Argentine fashion designers up close. There are many varied offerings in Buenos Aires, ranging from classy vintage finds to trendy Argentine fashion, a destination that is a one-to-watch for fashionistas.

12. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is not as alluring as some of the other haute fashion capitals, but it has found a way to cultivate its own little corner in the world of fashion. El Hygge, a Danish idea that centers on the idea of coziness and satisfaction influences the style depicted in Copenhagen. Travel around the urban area and learn about the city’s boutiques where brands like the Norse Projects, Soulland, and Wood Wood signify the real Danish fashion.

Don’t omit Copenhagen Fashion Week which offers you the best in avant-garde, Nordic minimalism. Take a walk down the lanes of Copenhagen’s fashion district and enjoy the quintessential hygge lifestyle while you may even decide to buy a pair of sneakers.

13. Rome, Italy

Rome, Italy Street Style

Rome may not be as famous as Milan for fashion, but it has a unique blend of fashion and history that makes shopping a specialized allure that customers can enjoy. Explore the luxury of fashion at Via Condotti and Via Cola di Rienzo, which houses Bulgari, Gucci, Chanel, and many more.

Porta Portese flea market is an undisputed favorite hotspot for vintage fashion lovers. Travel through the aisles and discover the hordes of second-hand boho, mid-century clothing treasures.

And even if you’re looking for expensive department stores, Rome is ready to satisfy you. Plunge into the majesty of department stores such as La Rinascente and find yourself drawn to the harmonious character of Rome’s distinctiveness of history and style.

Conclusion

As we draw this sartorial voyage to a close, we’ve traversed the globe, from the avant-garde streets of Paris to the vibrant markets of New Delhi, each destination a testament to the boundless creativity and cultural heritage that fashion embodies.

This ultimate guide has not only showcased the world’s fashion-forward locales but also ignited a wanderlust for stylish exploration. May your travels be as chic as the destinations we’ve journeyed through, leaving you with unforgettable memories and a wardrobe enriched by the world’s finest.


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Canadian Beauty

DIY Eyebrow Growth Serum

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


This simple, quick, and easy DIY Eyebrow Growth Serum contains natural oils and essential oils that are known to help encourage and stimulate hair growth. Scroll through to learn how you can make this 3 ingredient eyebrow growth serum.

Support your eyebrow growth and thickness with this simple DIY Eyebrow Growth Serum recipe. Apply once daily to enjoy fuller and more conditioned-looking brows.

I used to have very thick brows naturally but over the last few years, I’ve noticed that the mids and tails of my brows look a bit more sparse. At first, I looked into brow growth serums online but I was so surprised by how expensive they were, so I began to think more about how I could make my own at home.

I have shared a lot on here about how I use homemade hair treatments, hot oil treatments, and DIY scalp oil treatments to support my hair growth, shine, and health and I thought I could make something similar for my eyebrows. I also used to use castor oil on my eyelashes to help them grow so I started looking into Castor Oil for eyebrow hair growth a bit more.

How Often Should You Use This DIY Castor Oil Eyebrow Serum?

I personally use this DIY Eyebrow Growth Serum every night. I take off all my makeup and apply a bit of this serum with a spoolie brush before bed as a part of my skincare routine.

In the morning, I usually find there is a slight bit of residue from the oil treatment left on my brows so I use my cleanser to just gently remove any leftover oil. I make sure to be very careful whenever I use a cleanser on my brows, whether to remove makeup or leftover oil from this serum, as it is very easy to cleanse your brows too aggressively and end up pulling out eyebrow hairs.

Can This Be Used On Eyelashes, Too?

I do not use this serum for my eyelashes. Essential oils can be a bit too harsh and strongly scented to use near the eyes so I avoid using them on the base of my eyelashes. Instead, I just use Castor Oil on my eyelashes.

What is in this DIY Castor Oil Eyebrow Serum?

  • Castor Oil
  • Rosemary Essential Oil
  • Optional: Clary Sage Essential Oil or Lavender Essential Oil

What Can I Put DIY Eyebrow Growth Serum In?

I ordered these 10ml Empty Mascara Tubes to make my DIY Eyebrow Growth Serum. They are inexpensive and come in a pack of 3 tubes with different applicator tips so you can make a few different items.

Can I add Peppermint Essential Oil to this Serum?

If you’d like to substitute the Sage Essential Oil or Rosemary Essential Oil for Peppermint Essential Oil you absolutely can. I find Peppermint Oil to be a bit too fragrant to be used around my eyes so I typically don’t use Peppermint Essential Oil. I find that it makes my eyes a bit red and watery. However, if you’re not as sensitive to Peppermint Essential Oil as I am then definitely add it to your brow serum.

Peppermint Essential Oil is a great essential oil to encourage hair growth. It is known to encourage blood circulation to hair follicles which can help with hair growth. I do find using Peppermint Essential Oil in scalp treatments to be a great way to encourage hair growth and I use it often in my DIY Hot Oil Hair Treatments as well.

DIY Castor Oil Eyebrow Serum

Yield:
1

Prep Time:
1 minute

Active Time:
4 minutes

Total Time:
4 minutes

This simple and easy DIY eyebrow growth serum contains natural oils and essential oils that are known to help encourage and stimulate hair growth. Stop by to learn how you can make this 3 ingredient brow growth serum.

Materials

  • 2ml of Castor Oil (about 40 drops or approximately 2 droppers worth)
  • Jojoba Oil
  • 2 Drops of Rosemary Essential Oil
  • Optional: 2 Drops of Sage Essential Oil or Lavender Essential Oil

Instructions

  1. Using a small funnel, pour your Castor Oil, Rosemary Essential Oil, and Sage Essential Oil into your empty mascara tube. Top up the serum with Jojoba Oil.
  2. Place the lid on your serum and rotate 10 times to gently combine the oils.
  3. Your serum is now ready to use!
  4. Store in a cool dry area.

Did you make this project?

Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Instagram




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Canadian Beauty

MERIT Beauty Review: The 7 Best Products to Try (And What Might Not Work for You)

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


For some people, makeup is all about creativity and self-expression. For others, it’s about looking polished with as little effort—and as few products—as possible.

If you fall into the second camp, MERIT Beauty might be your perfect match.

This minimalist makeup brand aims to streamline your routine with a tight edit of goof-proof essentials. The focus is on sheer finishes, wearable shades and sleek packaging, all designed for getting ready in five minutes or less.

But does less really mean more? I put the line to the test to find out. Keep reading for the best MERIT products to try—and the ones that might not be for everyone.

Love beauty? Subscribe now to get the latest reviews and routines delivered straight to your inbox!

Brand Overview

Michelle Villett/The Glow Memo

MERIT Beauty is a minimalist makeup brand that promises to simplify your daily routine with clean, easy-to-use essentials.

How the Brand Started

MERIT was founded in 2021 by Katherine Power, a serial entrepreneur who also created the skincare line Versed, the organic wine brand Avaline, and the editorial website Who What Wear. 

It all started when an Instagram post about her five-minute makeup routine went viral. She soon realized there was a gap in the market for a simple but luxurious makeup line that would enhance natural beauty without requiring too many products or steps.

“I realized there were many people just like me—busy individuals who want to look polished and pulled together in the time it takes to make a cup of coffee,” she told Forbes. “I am not a makeup artist. I haven’t spent hours consuming beauty how-tos on YouTube, but I like makeup, and I want to enjoy it through a ‘less is more’ approach.”1

What They Stand For

MERIT’s approach is modern minimalism: a small, tightly edited collection of makeup staples designed to be intuitive, buildable, and (as they put it) “impossible to mess up.” Every product is meant to streamline your routine, whether you’re after a five-minute face or a soft, polished look that still lets your skin show through.

Inside the Formulas

MERIT falls into the clean beauty category, with EU-compliant formulas that are vegan, cruelty-free and Sephora Clean. Products include both natural and synthetic ingredients, with a focus on avoiding known irritants and potentially harmful compounds. The brand’s internal blacklist includes parabens, artificial fragrance and over 1,300 other ingredients. 

They’ve also teamed up with celebrity facialist Biba de Sousa on several complexion products, incorporating her own list of 73 additional ingredients to avoid—many of which are technically clean but potentially inflammatory or pore-clogging.

The Best MERIT Beauty Products

MERIT Flush Balm Cheek Color

MERIT

MERIT Flush Balm Cheek Color is the brand’s number two bestseller, and for good reason. This is a cream blush with a lightweight, easy-to-blend texture and satin finish.

The dome shape is a big part of its appeal, because you don’t have to use a brush—you can swipe it directly onto your skin and then blend it out with your fingers. (Fun fact: Guerlain used to have a dome-shaped blush exactly like this back in the day, but it got discontinued. Big mistake. Huge! 😂)

Another reason you’ll love this blush is because of the formula: a sheer balm. It melts into your skin to give you a transparent veil of colour that looks like a realistic flush. It’s buildable, but never cakey. 

Just be aware that it is not acne-safe. Otherwise, they nailed this formula!

The range of 13 shades includes neutrals, brights and classic pinks. My top pick and one of the most versatile shades is Beverly Hills, a soft peachy pink.

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MERIT Signature Lip Lightweight Lipstick

MERIT

Traditional lipstick can look and feel heavy, but not MERIT Signature Lip Lightweight Lipstick. This product is designed to give you a slick of lightweight colour that doesn’t even feel like anything is on your lips.

I’ve tried literally hundreds of lipsticks over the years as a beauty editor, and I have to say—this one lives up to its claims. It’s super comfy, non-drying and not too sheer or opaque. It feels like a lip balm but wears almost like a soft, creamy stain. The formula reminds me a bit of Glossier Generation G, but not quite as sheer or blurred.

There are 17 shades to choose from, divided into nine satins and eight mattes. Most of the colours are very “your lips, only better” (think subtle pinks and browns). So far, my favourite is Millennial, the classic pink. It’s so pretty!

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MERIT Clean Lash Lengthening Mascara

MERIT

If you hate mascara that smudges (and don’t we all?), MERIT Clean Lash Lengthening Mascara is for you. This is a tubing mascara that adds length, lift and definition, but won’t ever give you raccoon eyes.

If you’re not familiar with tubing formulas, they wrap each lash in a thin “tube” of polymers instead of just pigment—which means they don’t smudge and remove easily with just water. No makeup remover required!

I consider myself a tubing mascara connoisseur, and this formula is truly one of my all-time favourites. It gives surprisingly good volume and definition, doesn’t clump, and stays put all day long. 

It comes in just the one shade, Perfect Black… which is a fitting name for the perfect mascara. I said what I said!

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MERIT Brow 1980 Volumizing Pomade

MERIT

For adding colour, shape and volume to your brows, MERIT Brow 1980 Volumizing Pomade is one of the best products I’ve found. Yes, I like this tinted brow gel better than Boy Brow and all the rest.

To be clear, it’s not for the person who needs strong hold from their brow gel. (That’s me and I usually just use Benefit 24-HR Brow Setter, which is clear, to shape my brows.) But if you’re someone with sparse brows that lack definition, this product is magic. 

All you do is swipe it back and forth using a “windshield wiper” technique, and it gives you the most gorgeous, fluffy, defined-looking brows. The results are so good, most people probably won’t even need to use a brow pencil with it. It never deposits clumps, and it leaves your brows soft instead of crunchy.

There are four natural-looking shades (I wear Taupe). Since my brows are already full, this is something I’d reach for on a night out to make them even bolder.

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MERIT Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil

MERIT

Lip oil has basically replaced lip gloss, and MERIT Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil is one of the best versions to try. Think of it as a hybrid between a gloss and a balm, with sheer colour, high shine, and a moisturizing feel.

I have no notes on the formula—it’s very soft and buttery, without any greasy or sticky feeling. It doesn’t migrate off my lips, and stays put for a decent amount of time (a few hours, unless you have something to eat or drink). 

I’m also pleasantly surprised by how much pigment you get from most of the shades. There are 12 in all, including classic glossy finishes, pearly shimmers, and sheers with pH-adjusting pigments. My favourites are Marrakech, a universally flattering soft peach, and Twin Set, a mauve.

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MERIT Signature Lip Liner Sheer Liner

MERIT

MERIT Signature Lip Liner Sheer Liner is one of the newest products in the line, and it’s a winner. This is an extremely hydrating, buildable lip pencil that you can use to define your lips or fill them in all-over.

So it’s just another lip liner? Well, no. It glides on far more easily and smoothly, with a creamy, lightweight gel texture that looks softer and more natural on the edges of your lips. The trade-off is that it’s not as long-lasting as waxier lip liners, but personally I’m okay with that. 

There are eight shades, and just like the lip colours, they’re all quite neutral and designed to match natural lip tones. For me, Coupe (cool pink) is perfection. It’s so pretty that I don’t want to wear any other lip liners now!

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MERIT Brow 1990 Sheer Gel Pencil

MERIT

When it comes to brow pencils, you want something with a tiny tip that can draw hair-like strokes. MERIT Brow 1990 Sheer Gel Pencil does just that. 

This is a soft gel formula—softer than most—so it’s quick and easy to fill in any gaps in your brows without tugging or pulling. But it sets quickly, so you also don’t need to worry about it smearing on you. It’s very similar to the Dior Brow Styler, a longtime favourite of mine… but this is cheaper!

This one comes in four shades, which match the Brow 1990 brow gel shades. (I wear Taupe in both.)

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What Might Not Work for Everyone

MERIT The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick

MERIT

MERIT The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick is the brand’s bestseller—a two-in-one foundation and concealer stick that gives you light-to-medium coverage.

The reason I say this won’t work for everyone is because it’s not designed to be used all over the face, like a liquid foundation. It’s a product you swipe on only where you need it—like around your nose and eye area—and then blend out with your fingers or a brush. Blending well is key, because I’ve found that even with a light application, it has the tendency to look a bit cakey up-close (more so than Westman Atelier Vital Skin Foundation Stick, the closest “dupe”).

The other caution is if you have acne-prone skin. It contains some ingredients that could clog pores (synthetic wax and sorbitan isostearate), especially if you’re applying it to areas like the nose, forehead and chin. 

But if those aren’t dealbreakers for you, it’s a great product—and ideal to keep in your handbag for on-the-go touchups. I love having a “one and done” complexion stick, and the coverage level is excellent. 

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MERIT Bronze Balm Sheer Bronzer

MERIT

MERIT Bronze Balm Sheer Bronzer is a sheer, creamy bronzer in stick form, designed for a natural, sun-kissed effect. You can also use it as a subtle contour.

I gave this a pass for two reasons. One, it contains some potential pore-cloggers, just like the foundation stick. 

The other problem is that the lighter shades, Quince and Clay, are way too orange. If you have cool undertones, it’s just not going to work. Now, obviously I get that bronzer by nature is warm-toned. But here’s the secret: It also needs to have some red pigment to look realistic. (The only brand I know that understands this is RMS Beauty—try the Buriti Bronzer and you’ll see what I mean.)

The three darker shades do appear more balanced, so if you have a medium to deep skin tone, this could work for you. 

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MERIT Day Glow Highlighting Balm

MERIT

MERIT Day Glow Highlighting Balm is an oil-based highlighter that gives your skin a glow without looking sparkly or glittery. 

This may not be the best choice for acne-prone skin, since it’s high in olive oil, which can clog pores.

Personally, I prefer a more dewy, glassy finish than you can get with this highlighter. Compared to RMS Beauty Living Luminizer and Westman Atelier Lit Up Highlighter Stick, it has a denser concentration of shimmer particles, so the effect isn’t as natural-looking. The four shades all lean warm, too—even the lightest one, Champagne, is more golden than pearly.

Still, it’s very subtle, so most skin tones should be able to make it work. I also appreciate the stick format, which makes it quick and easy to apply. You don’t need a brush; you just swipe it on and blend it out with your fingers.

One more reason you might want to try this product: It has a better price point than RMS Beauty and Westman Atelier.

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MERIT Solo Shadow Matte Eye Color

MERIT

MERIT Solo Shadow Matte Eye Color is a cream-to-powder eyeshadow with a matte finish. Since it’s sheer but buildable, you can either apply it with your fingers or an eyeshadow brush for more precision.

I didn’t end up trying this product because the shades and texture are not my jam. How crazy is it that I couldn’t see a single shade that I thought could work for me? There are eight in all—four neutrals and four “statement” colours—but everything is either too warm, too dark or too pink for me.

I’m also not crazy about the matte finish. I think a bit of shimmer and dewiness is generally more flattering (not to mention more forgiving when you’re applying with your fingers). I’d probably be more on board if these came in packaging like ILIA’s Liquid Powder Eye Tints, which makes the application easier to control.

But that’s just my personal preference. If you’re a matte girlie, and the colours are in your wheelhouse, this could be worth a shot.

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MERIT Great Skin Instant Glow Serum

MERIT

MERIT Great Skin Instant Glow Serum is a “bi-phase” serum, which means that it has both an oil layer and a water layer. You need to shake it to mix them, and together, they’ll give your skin a dewy glow under makeup.

Unfortunately, the formula contains a potential irritant (isononyl isononanoate) as well as low-molecular weight hyaluronic acid, which is inflammatory. It’s also not very hydrating, as it’s lacking essential ingredients to properly support the skin barrier. 

What it does do well is the “glow” part—and I will admit, the effect is gorgeous. If you have oily skin, you may find it too greasy, but drier skin types will drink this right up. If you give it a try, make sure to layer a more supportive serum underneath it.

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MERIT Great Skin Priming Moisturizer

MERIT

MERIT Great Skin Priming Moisturizer is a lightweight, silicone-free moisturizer that doubles as a makeup primer.

This is another product to avoid if you’re acne-prone. It contains several potential triggers, including jojoba butter, stearic acid, algae and sorbitan isostearate. It’s also missing skin-supportive ceramides and cholesterol, so it’s not the most balanced moisturizer.

The other problem I detected in my testing is that it tends to pill if you apply it on its own—even with nothing underneath. You really need to layer it on top of the Instant Glow Serum in order to make it work. 

If you’re willing to do that, it does make a nice primer under The Minimalist, and it doesn’t feel greasy on the skin. 

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MERIT The Uniform Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 45

MERIT

MERIT The Uniform Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 45 is the brand’s latest launch, a mineral sunscreen with a sheer, buildable tint that comes in 15 shades.

Unfortunately, with only 15% zinc oxide, it’s slightly low on protection. (Sunscreens need at least 20% zinc to be truly broad-spectrum.) It also contains an SPF booster, butyloctyl salicylate, which is a modified form of octisalate that brands use to artificially increase their SPF ratings. 

The third potential problem is that it’s formulated with multiple comedogenic ingredients, including lauroyl lysine—one of the worst triggers for breakouts.

If you’re not acne-prone, and you don’t mind that it’s not 100% mineral, I’d suggest treating this like makeup and layering it over a more protective sunscreen.

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Is MERIT Beauty Worth It?

Michelle Villett/The Glow Memo

Here’s what I love about MERIT Beauty:

  • Simple and streamlined: You don’t need a ton of products, which takes the guesswork out of your makeup routine.
  • Foolproof application: Most items are swipe-and-blend—no fancy brushes or advanced techniques required.
  • Flattering, wearable shades: Everything is “you, only better.” There’s nothing wild or overly trendy, just subtle colours that enhance your natural beauty.
  • Lightweight textures: You get a natural finish that doesn’t look overdone.
  • Luxe but accessible: The formulas feel luxe and the packaging is chic, but the pricing is lower than many comparable brands.
  • Clean ingredients: They meet EU standards and avoid common irritants.

But here’s why this brand might not work for you:

  • Limited product range: This is a tight edit—not a full line of options like you’d find from a pro makeup brand (no powders, eyeliners, etc.).
  • Light coverage only: If you prefer full-coverage or matte finishes, these sheer, dewy formulas may not deliver enough.
  • Neutral, warm-leaning shade range: You won’t find bold colours or unconventional shades here—the focus is on subtle, wearable tones. Most shades lean warm, which may be limiting if you have cool-toned skin.
  • Potentially comedogenic: Despite partnering with Biba de Sousa to avoid acne triggers, some products still contain ingredients that could clog pores.

Where to Buy MERIT Beauty

If you’re ready to give this brand a try, you can find it at Sephora and the official MERIT Beauty website.

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Canadian Beauty

Canadian Indie Perfume Brands – Tea & Nail Polish

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


If you are anything like me, the $10 fee from Customs plus high shipping costs will make you wary of trying brands from the US and spending enough to get to free shipping from them. Luckily, we do have some Canadian brands to try out.

Canadian Indie Perfume Brands - Stereoplasm Logo

Stereoplasm

Stereoplasm is probably the biggest and well known of the Canadian brands. They have a great catalogue of scents and has monthly animals + two free samples with orders. You get free shipping at $100 or pay $8.50 (tracked expedited shipping) below that. They excel at atmospherics and animal themes. Their sample sizes are 1.8ml – a very generous sample size that will last unless you are the type to slather 1ml at a time.

Canadian Indie Perfume Brands - Pulp Fragrance Logo

Pulp Fragrance

Is a newer perfume house but comes from a long time perfume user and has great reviews. Since they are new, they have a smaller catalogue but all scents are available in small sample sizes making it really affordable to try.

Canadian Indie Perfume Brands - Sarawen Logo

Sarawen

Sarawen is a smaller house but has some great themes and her rose and incense perfumes come highly recommended. They are also on Etsy if you have a gift card burning a hole in your pocket or want that extra security when purchasing.

Canadian Indie Perfume Brands - Lurker and Strange Logo

Lurker and Strange

Currently offers free shipping on all Canadian orders so is a great place to start if you are new and don’t want to spend a lot. They also have a quick TAT and great inspiration for their perfume themes.

Canadian Indie Perfume Brands - Libertine Fragrance Logo

Libertine Fragrance

Is more on the niche perfume end of pricing but makes some amazing scents.

Canadian Indie Perfume Brands - Zoologist Fragrance Logo

Zoologist Perfumes

Again, more on the niche perfume pricing range but animal themed which is always a plus and are really imaginative and not easily duped in other brands. They have a US site, so be sure to shop from the Canadian one.

Some others that you may want to try

A retailer, rather than a brand, Pretty Indulgent is Canadian based, and carries a few brands including Solstice Scents.

If you are branching out to US brands, Ajevie sells decanted samples so you can try multiple houses at once at reasonable shipping costs (and once you are a customer, look into her c/o forwarding where you can send US indies to her and have them sent on to you as a bulk package for a small fee + shipping costs)


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Canadian Beauty

Giovanni 2chic Frizz Be Gone Shea Butter Shampoo & Conditioner Review

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


When you see a product that claims to have 20 benefits to improve your hair, sure you’re skeptical, but also interested in finding out if they are true!  Giovanni 2chic Frizz Be Gone Shampoo & Conditioner was introduced to me in a beauty – blogger – box last year.  I figured I didn’t have anything to loose and per the claims, lots to gain, so I gave it a whirl!

I use to be a one brand kinda girl when it came to my hair products.  I was afraid to branch out and test drive anything else as I thought I had found what worked for my hair.  Well, as I have gotten older I have almost been reintroduced to my hair and now I love testing out new hair care items!

When I opened the beauty blogger box from @MSquaredbrands late last year, I took one look at these and put them aside.  I was close to finishing up what was in my shower at the time and these bad boys were next on the list to try!

First off, who else has to smell a product? It is one of the first things I do, even sometimes before reading the packaging LOL.  Well these smell pretty amazing. With Shea butter and almond oil, the scent is light but it lets you know it is there.

I than saw the 20 claims to improve and benefit my hair and I was like “say what? But really?”

Photo Credit: http://www.giovannicosmetics.com

The few that caught my eye was that it reduces frizz & tames unmanageable hair & flyaways.  I have super straight hair, but frizz and flyaways are my enemy!  With Winter on the horizon where I live, moisture (snow & rain) and low humidity was about to take over also.  Anything to help my hair was on my must try list.

The product is light weight also and lathers up nicely. A little goes a long way for both the shampoo and conditioner. While I do not wash my hair everyday, these have lasted me 3 months! The cost of these are very reasonable also, so that is a win-win all around.

Giovanni has a wide range of products to suit any ones hair care needs and can be found at many locations across  North America as well as online. (check out well.ca and don’t forget to use my code: tals10for40)

_________________________________________________________________________________________

Thanks Beauties,

Blog sign off

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 *PR Samples. This product was sent to Talsbeautyopinion for consideration and product testing/reviewing and did not receive payment for review.  As always, this does not and will not alter my honest opinion on a product. Talsbeautyopinion is not a makeup artist, beauty or skincare specialist and will not be held liable for any recommendations. Therefore, try at your own risk.


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Canadian Beauty

NUDESTIX x Glamzilla 3-Piece Set

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


Well, well, well……after some time off from the blog, I’m thrilled to be back to doing what I love – playing with makeup and writing about it.

I can think of no better product to review in my return to blogging than a Canadian collaboration from beauty bestie – Miz Glamzilla. This is the NUDESTIX No Edit, No Filter, Just Glam 3-Piece Glamzilla Set.

I’ve tried a few NUDESTIX eye products before, but never the face products. In the past I’ve stayed away from cream products because they didn’t play well with my makeup, but over the past few years I have been foregoing foundation for the most part, making the way for cream products to sit quite pretty on my face.

nudestix No Edit No Filter Just Glam review swatches glamzilla

This 3-piece set from NUDESTIX features two existing products and one new product. The existing products are the Blot & Blur Matte Stick and the Nudies Matte Lux All Over Face Blush Color in “Nude Buff.” New to the NUDESTIX family is the Nudies Matte Lux All Over Bronze Color in the shade “Manila,” which was created by Glamzilla.

This kit contains 3 twist-up tubes of face products. The blush and bronzers contain 7g of product and include a blending brush at the other end, while the matte stick contains 10g of product (no need for a brush because it is very “place and go”).

nudestix No Edit No Filter Just Glam review swatches glamzilla

For the photo below I applied the blotting stick in my T-Zone to cancel out shine, the bronzer in the classic “3” shape to the perimeter of my face as well as on my eyes as a shadow and the blush on my cheeks and my lips. Since the blush and bronzer are “all over” products, you can pretty much create a full face look just using the trio.

nudestix No Edit No Filter Just Glam review swatches glamzilla

 

nudestix glamzilla bronze blush swatches

Let’s start with the bronzer. I’m not someone uses bronzers that have red tones purely because my skintone is very cool, so I don’t gravitate towards warm bronzers like “Manila.” That being said, I imagine this bronzer would complement the warm-toned girlies. Regardless of the shade, the product itself was extremely smooth – it was so smooth that instead of using the attached brush, I used a damp sponge to lightly blend it onto my face. Although “Manila“ didn’t work with my complexion as bronzer, it worked BEAUTIFULLY as an easy eyeshadow. Whenever I want to pull my look together with a simple eye, I reach for a bronzer (as long as it’s eye-safe). And boy, did “Manila“ ever come through. I swished a large blending brush onto the product and applied it to my eyelids using circular blending motions. With just two dips into the product, I had a natural, blended and most-importantly an easy eyeshadow look that took about 10 seconds to achieve.

In the photo below I applied the blotting stick in my T-Zone to cancel out shine, the bronzer in the classic

The blush in the shade “Nude Buff” was just that – a warm and natural colour. I applied it to my cheeks and blended it out with a damp sponge. Like the bronzer, it was super easy to blend. I also applied it to my lips to create a semi-monochromatic look in the “before and after” photo.

In the photo below I applied the blotting stick in my T-Zone to cancel out shine, the bronzer in the classic

The bronzer and blush shades are very much in the same colour family, so to show off how the blush looks on its own without the bronzer, I took a shot of me wearing it solo, on my eyes and cheeks, below.

In the photo below I applied the blotting stick in my T-Zone to cancel out shine, the bronzer in the classic

Last up is the Blot and Blur Matte Stick. While I couldn’t capture a photo of the product clearly at work, I can confidently say that this stick works. While I’ve used mattifying stick products to reduce greasiness in the past, using them typically results in the grease just transferring to the stick itself, leaving me with a gunky product to clean up. This matte stick is very different as it covers up the shine without a trace…like I don’t know where the shine went, but it’s not on my face and it’s not on the stick. Pretty cool!

nudestix No Edit No Filter Just Glam review swatches glamzilla

The NUDESTIX No Edit, No Filter, Just Glam 3-Piece Glamzilla Set is available in-store at Sephora and on the NUDESTIX website for $85 CAD/$69 USD. Glamzilla’s second NUDESTIX collaboration, a vibrant blush called “Hot Fire” is in stores now (if you can find it – I’m still trying to get my hands on it, but it’s sold out at every store I visit!).


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Canadian Beauty

Five on Friday – October 25, 2024 ~ Calgary Farmyard, The Pumpkin Spice Cafe Book Review, Calgary First Responders Run, Make Me A Mixtape Book Review, and

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


Happy Friday everyone – I hope you all have a great week! 

ONE 

Make Me A Mixtape was received as a review copy 

This past weekend we enjoyed a little pumpkin patch at the Calgary Farmyard – it was so much fun! There was so many great activities for us and the kids and the weather was fantastic. It’s been a great Fall here in Calgary! 

TWO 

Time for another fun book review for The Pumpkin Spice Cafe by Laurie Gilmore – 4 stars! This was a cute Fall romance with a little bit of spice in it! It’s got the small town setting, a coffee shop with a new to town owner, a hot farmer and great new friendship vibes too! Honestly, felt like that nice warm feeling you get while drinking a PSL and it just a cute read – i loved that it had a little bit of who-dunnit to help the story along! I always love a cozy read, but Fall and Winter are perfect to snuggle up with a good cozy book!

THREE 

Last weekend I also ran in the First Responders Run – I did another 5k. It’s not anything crazy, but it’s still the third 5k I’ve ran this year and it was my best time so it was a great day! 

FOUR

And, another book review! This time for Make Me A Mixtape by Jennifer Whiteford – 3.5/4 stars. This is a fun Fall romance with a coffee shop setting that feels perfect for Fall and Winter vibes! Our main character used to be in a punk rock band, but she’s now content recording music, while living above and working for her Aunt’s coffee shop. She’s delivering coffee and the guy recognizes her – they become quick friends and the romance goes from there. I loved the side characters and the plot line itself, I did struggle a little to connect with the fairly wholesome male character, but it was a cute change from what we typically see a cute easy read with good friendships and musical touches!

FIVE 

And, speaking of runs – I have been adding up my kms of running and indoor biking all year and I’ve finally got up to 300+ kms for this amazing medal from The Conquerer. This is such a cool medal and it’s amazing! 

I hope you all have an amazing weekend! 


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