It seems as though MAC Cosmetics releases a new collection every couple of weeks. It is almost impossible to keep up and any MAC fanatic could easily spend a fortune on all the limited edition releases. I personally love MAC lipstick and usually just opt for their standard range of shades. However this season one collection truly spoke to me, the All About Orange Collection. 

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MAC All About Orange Collection was created and inspired by the über popular and very current shade, orange. The collection features shadows, lipsticks, glosses, blushes and polishes ranging from true orange, to coral orange, to pink corals. I shied away from the true oranges and picked up two varying shades with pink tones for easier wear, Sushi Kiss and Sweet & Sour. I also finally came around to picking up Coral Bliss rounding up a lovely collection orange-tinged hues. (review soon)

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Sweet & Sour is a pale peachy-pink with a creme finish. For a MAC Cremesheen its very pigmented with more of a satin finish. Sweet & Sour appears much lighter on my lips than when viewed in the tube. This is definitely a favorite of the collection for me. It’s similar to one of my favorite YSL Rouge Volupte lipsticks, #30 Faubourg Peach, and just as pigmented. For a more natural look you might want to apply this one over a balm.

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Sushi Kiss is a stand-out shade that is an incredibly pigmented medium-tone peach-coral. This one gave me a bit of a clown face, and I have featured it in all its glory. While I love the shade and that name, I personally think it’s a bit much straight from the tube. I opt to wear it either over balm to soften it or along with a gloss. Sushi kiss has a satin finish.

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Clik here to view.some comparison swatches

I picked up these two items from a restock on maccosmetics.com. I am sure that by now they might be hard to find.

$15 each at maccosmetics.com

Did you pick up anything from the All About Orange Collection?

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Le Mertier de Beauté Lip Cremes are the new-found product of my obsession. I have heard many good things about the Lip Creme formula, Xiao from Messy Wands raves. The steep $36 price tag had made me quite apprehensive, although cosmetic curiosity soon got that best of me, as it always eventually does. I just picked up one, Peche Cremè, it was my birthday (month). The only problem is, now I want them all…

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The Lip Crèmes from Le Mértier de Beauté are said to be a hybrid of a gloss and a lipstick. It contains intense emollients and antioxidants to soothe and nourish lips, along with long-lasting intense color.

The Lip creme’s have a doe-foot applicator, perfect for the formula’s application. A sweet vanilla scent, similar to NARS, is quite noticeable at first but soon fades to nothing. When I first tested the Crème I was disappointed to find nothing that leads me to perceive this product as a lipstick hybrid. It is a lip gloss only, at least Peche Cremè is, which is a sheer shade. I have seen other darker shades to contain far more pigment in online swatches. The gloss as it is, I can honestly say, is the most lovely that I have ever come across in formulation.

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Le Mertier de Beaute Lip Creme’s apply like any other gloss, about five minutes later is when the magic happens. The product transforms, providing a softening and plumping effect. I havent heard other’s refer to a plumping effect when using the Lip Cremes, however the results a clear. My lips are incredibly soft and full. The gloss wears very comfortably for a good 3-4 hours while providing intense hydration.

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Peche Crème is a soft peach with multi-color shimmer. The shimmer is not grainy in the least, but has an undetectable feel on the lips. The shade is perfect for a soft wash of color with a high shine.

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It is clear that I am absolutely smitten with the Lip Cremè formula. I can honestly say it is like nothing I have previously tried. The Lip Cremè is a must-try for even those indifferent to gloss formulas. This is a game changer!

Le Mertiér de Beauté Lip Crème $36 at nordstrom.com

Have you tried the Lip Cremés? I would love to hear your thoughts?

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Thy Givenchy Le Rouge Intense Color Sensuously Matte Lipstick is the fairest of them all. Encased in genuine leather, the ultra-luxe Le Rouge Lipstick from Givenchy doubles as a uber chic accessory. Rose D’Excpetion is one of two ‘limited edition’ shades from their latest Soir D’Excpetion Collection for Fall. Rose D’Exception Le Rouge was released with a matching Givenchy Le Vernis of the same shade.

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I must admit that when I was first introduced to the new Le Rouge lipstick from Givenchy along with the leather bullet and pyramid studding, I thought, “they have gone too far”. As time passed, the idea seemed less outrageous. I might even admit that my curiosity was eventually piqued, although I still didnt cave. Be that as it may, Givenchy then released the perfect “Taylor shade” in an even more attractive metallic leather case and they threw in a matching polish! Call me a sucker, I caved big time.

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Rose D’Exception Le Rouge comes in a ‘limited edition’ metallic pebbled leather case with their traditional silver pyramid studding. What is even more beautiful than the bullet is the exquisite formula. Described as a ‘semi-matte‘ lipstick, Le Rouge is unlike any other matte lipstick that you might be familiar with. Rose D’Exception provides full color in one swipe, like a matte formula but without any of the dryness. I will even go as far as saying that it’s hydrating. It glides on without the slightest pull, leaving soft, silky color that lasts through hours of wear.

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The swatch above was created with just one swipe. It’s seriously like butter. Rose D’Exception is described as a soft rosy pink. I think it leans a little cooler and lighter than your traditional rosy lipsticks. This shade is utter perfection and perfect for fall, think ‘nudes’ and ‘lilac-tones’. Rose D’Exception Le Vernis is a perfect pairing, if only slightly deeper. The only downside is that it’s LE, so grab it while you can!

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Givenchy Le Rouge in Rose D’Exception $36

available at sephora

Have you tried the Le Rouge formula? Thoughts?

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Gressa’s Lip Boosts are a new lip product where non-toxic makeup meets glamour, at a uncompromised standard. These lipstick/balm hybrids protect your pout with a slew of all-natural ingredients that treats your lips like your favorite balm, but coats them like your favorite lipstick. It contains a combination of castor oil, carnauba wax, cacao butter, coconut oil, sea buckthorn oil and Coenzyme Q10 along a proprietary blend of precious oils. These Lip Boosts are available in three shades, Lavish, Brilliant and Bare.

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Bare is a pinky-nude with slight shimmer and shine. This flattering pink is pigmented enough to wear alone, and a perfect every day shade. It wears well and conditions lips long after its worn. The Lip Boost is the only lip product you need, and I’m never without mine.

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If you’re looking to incorporate more natural, non-toxic makeup options into your routine, you can count on brands like Gressa to make that transition easy. If your just looking for an all-around great lip product that deeply nourishes, the Gressa Lip Boost is for you.

Gressa Lip Boost $21 gressaskin.com

*sample generously provided

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Tom Ford’s Spring Makeup Collection features eight new ‘limited edition’ lip shades, along with four new Nail Lacquers. These Lip Color Sheers are a new formula for Spring/Summer have a sheer, shimmering finish. Tom Ford’s traditional brown retro-chic lacquered lipstick case got a makeover too.

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Pink Dune instantly captivated me. I tried hard not to succumb to the allure of this radiant beauty, but I fell hard. This sheer peach shade contains a tinge of pink and a multitude of golden shimmer. The formula is creamy with a luminous sheen. It wears quite well and feels comfortable. The Lip Color Conditioners contain Tom Ford’s standard vanilla scent that isn’t overly fragrant. It easily layers for a bit more coverage without feeling heavy.

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Pink Dune

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Pink Dune pairs perfectly with Incandescent Nail Lacquer as seen in this photo.

Pink Dune $49 

neimanmarcus.com, bloomingdales.com

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I gladly bid farewell to this past frigid month of February and hello to March. Although it’s already snowed this month and all signs of warmer weather are amiss, I still hold hope for the new approaching season. Snow or not, Springs new beauty Collections are in full bloom. There have been some exciting releases this season and a few already have made it to my list of favorites.

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S.W. Basics Toner – After a stressful couple of weeks my skin did not fair too well. I started to develop a form of Dermatitis on my face. After some research and after testing several treatments, I came across this toner from S.W. Basics. Within a couple of days, my skin cleared up and with continued use, it keeps my Dermatitis at bay. The S.W. Basics toner is sort has been a savior.

Aroma M Camellia Hair Oil - I’ve recently reviewed this products after receiving a sample from Aroma M. I adore this oil so much and have recently picked up the full-sized. (review)

Tom Ford Nail Lacquer in Incandescent – A recent acquisition from the Tom Ford’s Spring/Summer Collection. This stunning metallic-gold polish, Incandescent, reminds me of the warm days that I am longing for. (review)

By Terry Cover Expert Foundation in #7 – The newest addition to my foundation collection. This might be the ultimate ‘un-makeup’ makeup. While I am still testing, I will be sure to post my thoughts soon.

Gressa Lip Boost in Bare - Probably my most worn lip product as of recent. While it contains gorgeous pigments, it conditions like your favorite balm and it’s all natural to boot. I am never without it. (review)

Hourglass Ambient Blush in Dim Infusion – It’s no surprise that the Ambient Blushes are everywhere, they’re gorgeous. Dim Infusion brings life to my complexion. The formula is beautiful as if it melts into the skin. (review)

What’s on your February Favorites List?

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It’s no secret that I am quite a fan of the Rouge Volupté range from YSL (evidence here, here, and here). When I heard word that YSL’s new Spring ‘Flower Crush‘ Collection featured four new shades, my heart began to race. The four new shades included, I  have heard, are said to be permanent. Included in the new release is #31 Fuchsia Storm, #32 Corail Jalouse (featured in this post), #33 Pink Neilia, and #34 Pink Asarina.

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Clik here to view.The formula is standard for the Rouge Volupté, smooth buttery goodness with an opaque finish. Some people find the RV formula too bold. As a little secret, I often times just pat the lipstick on for a less ‘in your face’ look. I personally find the formula very versatile in application.

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Corail Jalouse is a light peachy-pink, a stunner for sure. As standard the finish appears somewhat glossy and dries down to a satin finish.

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wearing #32 Corail Jalouse
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 Some Rouge Volupté comparison swatches
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YSL Rouge Volupté #30 Faubourg Peach, YSL Rouge Voluté Shine #13 Pink in Paris, YSL Rouge Volupté #6 Pink in Devotion, YSL Rouge Volupté #32 Corail Jalouse, YSL Rouge Volupté #29 Opera Rose

YSL Rouge Volupté #32 Corail Jalouse $34

nordstrom.com

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The Deconstructed Rose Lip Gloss Library from Bite Beauty features 12 mini glosses inspired by the scent, color and beauty of the delicate rose flower. This collection features shades raging from soft sheer pinks to deep and vibrant reds to suit your any mood. Each gloss is infused with antioxidant and mineral rich Rose Otto essential oil. Bite lip products contain only food-grade ingredients and are free of any chemicals. They’re good enough to eat and if you care to indulge yourself, they taste as good as they look.

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The Deconstructed Rose Lip Gloss set features a stunning selection of 12 shades. The deeper the shade, the richer the pigment and coverage. Shades seven on, apply like a liquid lipstick, leaving behind rich color. Some of the lighter shades apply very sheer, although can easily be layered for more coverage. The gloss is on the stickier side and does take some manipulation from the doe-foot applicator to spread the formula across the lips. Some tackiness wears away and lips are left feeling soft and nourished. It wipes off clear and leaves no stain behind. The fragrance is lovely and smells of the purest form of the rose and not of a perfumed re-creation. I’m loving the new glosses which makes my lips feel healthy and moisturized. The only problem is choosing just one shade to wear.

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• One – cool-toned milky pale pink
• Two – light rosy pink
• Three – pale peach
• Four – raisin
• Five – light mauve
• Six – dusty rose
• Seven – dusty coral
• Eight – cherry red
• Nine – cool red
• Ten – berry red
• Eleven – brown red
• Twelve – deep purple

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 Bite Beauty Deconstructed Rose Lip Gloss Library $49 

available at sephora.com

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The new Alter Ego Lipstick from the LORAC Cosmetics Summer 2014 Collection are for the ladies who love a lipstick with loads of pigment. This new release features 20 stunning shades and will be part of the permanent collection. Each shade is so beautifully executed and sure to become a classic ‘go-to’ in your collection.

Whether you wish to be a Free Spirit, a Supermodel or a Sex Kitten (even if just for a night), Alter Ego Lipstick comes in a gorgeous range of colors from soft nudes to vivid hues to create any look you covet. loraccosmetics.com

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The Alter Ego formula is opaque with a creamy-matte finish. One swipe is all you need for rich pigment. I personally like to prime the lips with some balm, then apply with a lip brush for a softer effect. I find the formula to have excellent, fuss-free wear. It’s one of the better smelling lipsticks with a light vanilla scent. The lipstick contains added antioxidant such as acai berry, pomegranate, grape seed extract, and vitamins C and E to soften your pout.

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 Nymph – bubblegum pink

Girl Next Door – light coral

Vixen – fuchsia

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 Nymph

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 Girl Next Door

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Vixen

If highly-pigmented lipsticks are your thing, the new Alter Ego formula is a must!

LORAC Cosmetics Alter Ego Lipstick $16

*This post contains PR samples

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Ilia Beauty nailed the this season’s hot orange lip trend with their recently released ‘limited edition’ lipstick in Voilà. Orange can be a tricky color, but Voilà is a perfectly wearable tangerine hue. With Ilia’s all-natural and organic ingredients you will protect your pout while staying on-trend. The ILIA Lipstick has a soft balmy texture that feel oh-so-good on the lips.

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ILIA Lipstick in Voilà

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Play with color this season and pair orange lips with a contrasting shade of aqua or sky blue on the eyes or nails. Try Deborah Lippmann Nail Polish in Blue Orchid.

 ILIA Lipstick in Voilà $26 at ecodivabeauty.com

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Bite Beauty packs a ton of pigment into their Matte Crème Lip Crayons. This creamy matte lip color contains Bite’s powerhouse antioxidant Resveratrol, along with nourishing jojoba and castor seed oils, shea butter, and orange peel wax. These Lip Crayon’s don’t budge, even through meals, while maintaining a creamy texture through hours a wear.

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The Matte Crème Lip Crayons glides across lips with ease, delivering bold color in one swipe. They have a bit of a waxy feel on the lips, which is expected for a long-wearing matte. With tons of moisturizing oils, the Crayon’s don’t dry out lips. As with most Bite Beauty products, the lipstick has a deliciously fruity scent that doesn’t linger.

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The shade Léche is a warm dusty pink that would flatter many skin tones. The Matte Crème Crayons  are perfect for a long night out, without the need for a touch-up.

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Wearing the Matte Crème Lip Crayon under the Bite Beauty Champagne Agave Lip Mask.

 Bite Beauty Matte Crème Lip Crayon $24

 sephora.com

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Tom Ford’s Lips & Boys Collection features a selection of 50 ‘limited edition’ lip shades. Each shade was named after a man who has personally impacted the life of Tom Ford. As he says, “why commit to one when you can have several?”, I have three, meet my boys.

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 left to right: Flynn, Peter, and Beau

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 The lipsticks are smaller in size in comparison to the original (0.07 oz. vs. 0.10 oz.). 

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 left to right: Flynn, Beau, and Peter

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swatches

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 Flynn is a beautiful soft pink with a satin finish.

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Peter is a mauve shade with silver shimmer and possibly my favorite of the group.

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 Beau is a light pink-nude and said to be a re-promotion of Blush Nude.

These mini versions are soft and creamy, like the original formula. The lip collection is clearly a lipstick lovers dream. I do suggest snatching one up as soon as you can, as they seem to be selling out quickly. These mini lip shades are available today only, at several locations, and their official release will be on December 26th. See Temptalia for additional information.

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The Australian brand nūdus encapsulates the true meaning of beauty in their ‘Lip Euphoria’ range of lipsticks. The nūdus brand brings luxury to the world of green beauty, with a quality clean aesthetic and exceptional performance. The formula is brimming with an exquisite combination of organic ingredients to nourish and protect, while delivering exceptional pigment and superior longevity.

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 Naked 01 (left) 27 Kisses (right)

Each lipstick contains 27 active naturals from certified organic ingredients and are expertly handcrafted to ensure quality and integrity. The formula contains high-quality, anti-aging ingredients, loaded with super foods, antioxidants, vitamins A, B, C, D, E and K, and essential fatty acids. All derived from extracts of flowers, fruits, herbs, minerals, and cold pressed oils, including pumpkin, kiwi fruit, raspberry, pomegranate, argan, and moringa.

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27 kisses (left) Naked 01 (right)

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(wearing Naked 01)

nūdus pigments are created with a basis on traditional Ayurvedic principles. They contain bioactive color extracts from a natural origin. Each ingredient is carefully selected to provide long-lasting color and safer moisturizing properties. There are ten shade selections in the nūdus ‘Lip Euphoria’ range.

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Naked 01*, the shade featured here, is true nude shade with slight golden shimmer and a matte finish. If I might add, it is indeed the perfect nude, with enough color so as not to wash me out. The texture is creamy, ultra nourishing and never drying. As I have mentioned, I am excited and amazed by its lasting ability.

All in all, nūdus is an absolute must-try brand, not only for you green beauties, but for those who are seeking moisture and anti-aging benefits, in a luxurious formula and quality aesthetic.

nūdus ‘Lip Euphoria’ lipstick in Naked 01 $32 

Exclusively available at us retailer beateabar.com

my review of 27 kisses coming soon…

*sample: All thoughts expressed are always honest and true to my personal experience.

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Welcome to the second installment of my lucite dreams ‘Best of Beauty'; the Makeup edition. You may have noticed that things have ‘cleaned up’ a bit on MLD. For many years now, my skin care choices have been fine-tuned to exist of only natural and organic ingredients. This is because, as I have learned, it’s what works. It seems only natural that my love for clean ingredients would soon pass over to my makeups products. I want to nourish and nurture my skin by using makeup created with the same attention to ingredients. While I am certainly not a devout in terms of clean makeup, I make an effort to include them as much as I can, especially in foundations. 

So, with great restraint I have narrowed down my picks to feature the true stand-outs from the past year.

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Foundation:

Gressa Skin Minimalist Corrective Serum Foundation

Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation (review)

Kjaer Weis Foundation (review)

Concealer:

It Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer (review)

Bronzer:

RMS Beauty Buriti Bronzer (review)

Highlighter:

W3LL PEOPLE Universalist 2 (review)

Blush:

Burberry ‘Light Glow’ Blush in Earthy (review)

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in Dim Infusion (review)

Kjaer Weis Cream Blush in Abundance (review)

Eyes:

Josie Maran Coconut Watercolor Eye Shadow in Rio de Rose Gold (review)

L’Oreal Voluminous Waterproof Miss Manga Mascara

Kat Von D Tattoo Liner in Trooper

Lips:

Nude - Nūdus Lipstick in Naked (review)

Pink – Gressa Skin Lip Boost in Bare (review)

Bright – YSL Rouge Volupte in Opera Rose (review)

Red - Gressa Skin Lip Boost in Aux Rouge

Gloss - Chantecaille Brilliant Gloss in Lucky

Palette:

LORAC PRO To Go Eye and Cheek Palette (review)

 What are your stand-out makeup products from 2014?

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Gressa Skin’s Lip Boosts are an all-natural lip product that drench your lips in nourishing botanicals. These lipstick/balm hybrids are a versatile product that can go from a wearable matte stain, to a to a vibrant glossy red lip, depending on your application. Always moisturizing and never drying, the Lip Boosts claim their place amid my favorite lip products. Since first discovering the shade Bare, my collection has only grown, as Gressa Skin continues to add more shades to the line.

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Gressa Lip Boost in Aux Rouge is a classic and ultra-flattering red shade. For a red-stained lip, I just tap some Aux Rouge onto my lips, using my fingertip. For a vibrant red glossy lip, I recommend using the Gressa Lip Brush for a heavier and more defined look. Aux Rouge has a long wear time, with a soft, moisturizing feel.

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 Gressa Lip Boost in Aux Rouge

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 Wearing Aux Rouge applied with a lip brush for a vibrant, glossy finish.

Gressa Lip Boosts are a must-try for all you ingredient nerds, or for those who suffer from chronically dry lips.

Gressa Lip Boost in Aux Rouge $26 at gressaskin.com 

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Today I am excited to share with you another gem from the Au Naturale line of clean cosmetics, as well as a special promotion for my lucite dreams readers.

In keeping in line with the Au Naturale ‘good for you’ cosmetics standard, the Pure Pro Lipsticks are composed of only clean, natural and organic ingredients. While delivering a high dose of pigment, the Pure Pro Lipsticks coat your lips in nourishing oils. Organic castor oil, cocoa seed butter, meadowfoam seed oil, wildcrafted candelilla wax, organic sesame oil, and avocado oils combine to lend this lipstick a deliciously balmy texture that hydrates like your favorite balm. The formula is virtually weightless with long-lasting wear.

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The formula is a great option for those with dry, parched lips. They feel wonderful on, and deliver a healthy dose of moisture. It takes a few swipes of the Pure Pro Lipsticks to gain their full pigment potential, although they have a surprising longevity.

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Innocence 

The shade Innocence* is a top-seller among the Au Naturale line of lipsticks and it’s no surprise. Innocence is an ultra-flattering soft nude-pink that offers a ‘my lips but better’ appeal. Personally, I’ve been wearing this shade daily, even in place of my balms.

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Sangria

Sangria* is an fuchsia pink with an iridescent finish. A perfect option for a no-fuss, bold-lip that requires minimal touch-ups.

  Au Naturale Pure Pro Lipstick $22 at aunaturaleglow.com

Enjoy 25% off with code LDAN15

offer ends 3/1/15

Click here to see my review of their gorgeous Organic Cream Bronzer.

*PR Sample – All thoughts expressed are my own and are always true to my personal experience.

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Au Naturale celebrates spring with the release of three trendy lip shades, in their African Color Collection. A statement lip is all the trend this season, and Au Naturale has covered the bases. Think plum, red, magenta, and rich pigments.

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The African Colors Collection features two glosses and one lipstick, all intensely pigmented. Just check out the swatches…

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First up is African Affair, a matte lipstick that is both unique and bold. I would describe it as a brick-red shade with a purple pearlecence. The wear is excellent, however, the formula seems drier than I am familiar with from Au Naturale. Both Ravish and Deep Coral Lip Glosses are generously pigmented, soft and ultra nourishing, with a fruity scent. For me, the formula is a love. They layer well for a more intense finish. Ravish is a beautiful bright pink, that brightens the face. Deep Coral is a warm dark coral shade with a golden shimmer. A gorgeous color for when the temperatures heat up.

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 Wearing African Affair Lipstick with Ravish Lip Gloss and Organic Creme Bronzer on both cheeks and lips.

 Au Naturale Lip Gloss* $15 Lipstick* $22

Available at aunaturaleglow.com

Use code ‘SPRING’ for 30% off at the Au Naturale website

*sample

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• Lina Hanson recently debuted her Satori Perfume Oil, as I reviewed here. This blend of warm vanilla, sandalwood, yuzu and ginger is utterly intoxicating, and an easy stand-out amid my favorites for the month.
• Au Naturale’s Lipstick in Innocence has been my daily go-to since I first got my hands on it. It’s the perfect soft pink and has a balmy texture. I’m nearly close to finishing it, which is something I’ve only done once before. If your curious as to what that lipstick was, it was MAC Bubbles. I was 16 and had a white, shimmery pout and I loved it.
• Jane Iredale’s Lip Definers are deliciously creamy, a favorite formula for sure. The shade Spice is the perfect pinky-nude, that is just a touch deeper than my natural lip color. It pairs brilliantly with Au Naturale Innocence.
• Kari Gran Lip Whips are a divine treat for your pout. The shade Radiance is a beautiful glossy pink, that is perfect on it own, or layered over any lip shade. (review)
• Prickly Pear Seed Oil is having moment. I am unequivocally a devout fan of this precious wonder oil (review). I apply Kahina’s Pricky Pear Seed Oil to my eye area, both day and night. The results have been nothing short of a miracle. My under eye area has significantly lightened, so much so, that I have been able to switch up my under-eye concealer to one that offers less coverage. Which leads me to…
• Though not nearly short on coverage, the RMS “Un” Cover Up is a brilliant under-eye concealer. It’s no secret, as this product is highly coveted by the industry elites. It covers, yet offers an undetectable finish ‘goals’. I do like to set the ‘Un” Cover Up with the RMS “Un” Powder, as the formula is quite creamy. (review)
• Speaking of “undetectable finishes”, I introduce you to the ‘mother’. The Gressa Minimalist Serum Foundation is one ingenious formula. Forget that it’s completely natural, forget that it is actually good for your skin. This formula trumps all serum foundations on the market today, be it ‘clean’ or not. Two to three drops is all that is needed. It glides across your face with no effort at all, leaving behind the most natural coverage. I am currently wearing a mix of shades 3 and 4.
• Kumari Luxury Sandalwood and Magnolia Body Oil makes me feel as though I’m spoiling myself on the regular. I am smitten with the fragrance of this oil, and of course I adore how it nourishes my skin. (review)
• I have recently posted about the Imbibe Pearl Essence Cleansing Mineral Treatment. This  powdered cleanser effectively washes away impurities in the most gentlest way. I’ve been adding this versatile treatment powder into my shampoo, as recommended, with excellent results. It has been helping to normalize my finicky scalp.
• The Jurlique Wrinkle Sofening Cream is an excellent moisturizer for dry skin. I’m not certain why I haven’t shared this product yet, though I feel a review is certainly in order. This is my second tube and a go-to for when I’m in need of extra moisture. In considering the recent weather conditions here in New York, I’ve been reaching for this one regularly.

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Hello spring! If there is one makeup trend this season that I find myself drawn to, it’s a fondness for purple hues. Particularly soft shades of lilac. Although my makeup choices tend to be generally in the neutral territory, I find the vast spectrum of purple tones incredibly wearable and generously flattering.

A recent acquisition that solidifies my love of lilac, is the new Lip Tint from Kjaer Weis, called Amazed. Kjaer Weis has released the most quintessential shade of lilac that has been a mainstay in my current makeup routine.

“Amazed is a lip color that’s innocent but flirty, inspired by the starlets of the 60s.”- Kirsten Kjaer Weis 

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If you’re not familiar, the Kjaer Weis Lip Tints come in a refillable silver compact with a mirror on the reverse side of the top for easy touch-ups. It is truly luxury cosmetic packaging at its finest. The Lip Tints have a balmy feel and brilliantly build from sheer, to bold. For a sheer wash of color, just use your finger for application. For a more intense color payoff, its best to build the color with a lip brush. While I love the balmy feel and versatility of the lip tints, they do lack in the longevity department. So, lucky for that mirror, frequent touch-ups are necessary.

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Amazed is a perfectly pale lilac-pink, I call it “nude’s sister.” It also looks beautiful applied to the apples of the cheeks. As I have mentioned, the Lip Tints are truly versatile in their ability to build. In the image above, I have layered the lipstick with a lip brush to show off its color payoff potential. However, I would generally apply with a lighter hand for a more natural look.

 Kjaer Weis Lip Tint in Amazed $49 (with compact), $29 (for a refill)

available at thedetoxmarket.com,  beauteabar.com,

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Nūdus lipsticks have been making their mark in the in the green beauty world and beyond, to no surprise. The first time I got my hands on Nūdus, in the shade Naked, it was love at first swipe. These certified organic lipsticks provide rich pigment, exceptional long-wear and comfortable, hydrating color, while they drench your pout in an exquisite combination of skin-healthy ingredients. With a selection of ten exquisite shades (with word of more on the way) Nūdus has a lipstick for you.

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Do you live with the notion that “natural” or “organic” alternatives do not live up to their chemically ridden counterpart? I did at one time, but its brands like Nūdus that put that mind-set to rest. These “euphoric” formulations stand up against your favorite “high-end” department store lipstick and it does so with great extent. It’s products like these that create a new form of thought as to why chemicals and fillers are used in the first place.

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Nūdus 27 Kisses is a universally flattering rose shade, and the brands top-seller. One swipe builds full coverage, as they’re superfluously creamy and wear for hours. If you’re looking to delve into the exquisite world of Nūdus Lip Euphoria, this is the perfect shade to start.

Nūdus 27 Kisses $32

available at beauteabar.com and integritybotanicals.com

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