If you were digging on MAC last year, you might have had the misfortune of buying some items from their Metal-X Cream Eyeshadow release like I did. They offered a vivid yet simple and basic array of color, but the results and usability of the product left many MAC fanatics disappointed - yes, me too!
Another year later and MAC is pushing it out again with another attempt at stardom. Will they succeed? You be the judge...
The Metal-X Cream Eyeshadows are fairly similar (if not exactly the same) to last year's release as far as the formula goes. Unfortunately, they didn't promote a nice purple color like last year's Plum Electric, but honestly, I don't think I'd bat another eyelash at taking one of these home with me. But I do give many credits to the colors Gilded Ash, Gold Spice, Forged Rose, and Verdigris. Those made me double think my purchasing decision, but I held strong and decided against it, hah!
The pigments are really pretty. I mean, when are they NOT. Gold Mode and Cocomotion are repromotes from prior releases (better get your mits on Cocomotion!) but Spiritualize is the new kid on the block and a handsome one at that.
If I had to choose one of the Reflects Glitter jars to buy, it would definitely be Reflects Bronze. It's so gorgeous in swatch and would go great in topping off any earthtone look. Reflects Duo Purple and Reflects Very Pink are more translucent so they purely just add sparkle to the application. And Reflects Blackened Red would look so lovely if mixed with some lipgloss and used to top off a number of lipsticks!
The Liquidlast Liners are just perfect. All are part of the permanent line with exceptions to Molten Sol (an intriguing coppery bronze) and Visionaire (a solid princess pink). These are definitely long lasting liners - hasn't budged off my arm yet! Green Play isn't part of the release but I swatched it just in case I read the line up incorrectly when I went in for swatching. Still pretty though, yah?
Did you find any attractions to the Metal Urge line or are you waiting to splurge on some of the MAC holiday gear?
Aloha,
Mrs. Lynne
November 21, 2008
MAC Product Release: Metal Urge Swatches
September 10, 2008
Application Review: Using Mixing Medium On Regular Potted Eyeshadows
Mixing medium is a liquid or gel substance which allows you to transform powder or liquid makeup into an alternate form of coverage. For example, one could dampen their makeup brush with mixing medium and convert color eye pigment (loose powder makeup) into a more liquefied form revealing an even more vibrant version of the pigment itself. This particular technique is coined as "foiling". Doing this also allows you to easily apply the color to your eyelids, instead of dealing with messy fallout in its dry/loose form, where it can act as an eyeshadow base or a more intense eyeshadow itself.
Powder and liquid. It's almost a given that those two forms can work well together, right? But can you use mixing medium on already potted (pressed) eyeshadows?
In this world you can do just about ANYTHING and get away with it. What is considered suggestable is really at your discretion. But like many others, I've taken the plunge and dampened an angle brush like the MAC 266 and MAC 208 with mixing medium in the attempt to use my regular potted eyeshadow colors as eyeliners. No Blacktrack Fluidline? Can I offer you some of my Carbon eyeshadow?
Gripes have been raised that doing this can ruin the eyeshadow pot. But before we go there, first things first....
How is the color payoff when using mixing medium on potted MAC eyeshadows?
The color payoff is incredibly more vibrant and intense than trying to apply the eyeshadows dry. I also noticed that I could see the finishes better than when using them dry.
...pretty, eh?
Does foiling with potted eyeshadows ruin the eyeshadow pot?
It does leave a distinct presence no matter the finish of the eyeshadow. Whether it's veluxe pearl or matte, chances are you'll know exactly which part of the pot your brush got in to.
Pick an area of the pot you are okay with sacrificing for the great good of the eyeliner. And by this area, I mean the outer edge of the pan. For some odd reason, we as humans like to gravitate towards the middle of the pan. It's the most commonly used area of the eyeshadow that will always hollow out first whether its to load our eyeshadow brush with color or to swatch an eyeshadow color.
Final word: For the sake of preserving these precious gems (and to avoid future makeup tantrums), please use mixing medium on potted eyeshadows responsibly.
Aloha,
Mrs. Lynne
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June 13, 2008
MAC Product Releases: Cool Heat Swatches = Bring Your Kids To Work Day!
When MAC releases new collections, to me that means it's "Bring Your Kids To Work Day", hah!
So, I kept an eye on the clock this morning to make sure I could get my swatching herd together and head to the mall before everyone else that has Fridays off (or decided to play hookie) swarmed the counters.
As I arrived at the mall and searched for a desirable parking spot, I was contemplating how to carry out my plan of attack. Go to Macys and swatch? Or go to the MAC store? Sometimes Macys counters don't receive their MAC promotional release displays the same time as the stores so it's really give or take.
After parking and loading up my swatching support team, I decided to go through Macys this time. Their counter setup is definitely brood-friendly. And since it was the 2nd day of the release and I could only hope that their displays were up and out (refer to the click-able picture below for my "buy me time" ammunition) because I didn't really want to think of the obstacles involved to trot on over to the MAC store. But lucky for me they were!
They are such troopers to endure my swatching journeys with me because as you can see by the looks on their faces, they're like "here we go... again", lol! Not to mention 2 minutes into the swatch, they both start yelling crazies *digs fingers into the pots faster* Hah.
I have to say that next to the MAC Neo-Sci Fi Collection (check out swatches here), the MAC Cool Heat Collection is one of the better lines that has come out this year. From the eyes to the lips, you can still flaunt a cool look no matter the temperatures this summer.
I really like the spectrum of eyeshadow colors. They all intertwine with each other and really allow you to make the gradient effect a thing of the past. Warm Chill swatches like Mood Ring from the Heatherette Trio 1 while Blue Flame reminds me of Deep Truth, in the pot and swatched. The subtle difference is the finish. Blue Flame is more metallic with pearl, while Deep Truth is just lightly frosted. The rest aside from Climate Blue look like they can dupe pretty well with the existing line of MAC eyeshadows but it is just perference on if you, for instance, want more teal in an eyeshadow than what's already in something like Shimmermoss e/s.
The slimshines are very pretty! There is definitely a color for everyone in here. They seem to be a bit more opaque in consistency in comparison to slimshines of the permanent line.
Overall, this collection really makes it hard to decide since everything seems to mesh together a little too well. So, what should you get? For the sake of uniqueness, I'd suggest Climate Blue e/s (if you are comfortable wearing a bold color like that) and Gentle Simmer, By Degrees, and Tropic Glow slimshines.
After fulfilling my duties as a product swatching mistress, I wanted to stop by the Longs close to the mall to see what their NYX selection was like. Sadly, there wasn't much to choose from unlike the one by my house.
BUT.... I did find me some flavor-filled Hello Kitty Marshmallows!
Would have been cute if the marshmallows were like Hello Kitty heads, huh?
Strawberry filling...
Mrs. Lynne says, "mmmm... well deserved"! Hah.
What did you get from the Cool Heat Collection? Were you moved by the choice of colors?
Aloha,
Mrs. Lynne
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June 12, 2008
MAC Product Releases: Cool Heat
Some looks are too hot for summer to handle but not Cool Heat. Sweltering corals, chill-out blues, complemented by Turquatic and its warm new sister shade, Turquatic Heat, create this season's coolest - and steamiest - beauty paradox.
MAC Cosmetics sets out a new release today: Cool Heat! With 5 available Slimshines and 7 Eye Shadows, there is a cool color pick for everyone great in this summer.
I won't have an adventurous swatch journey for you today since Baby Tyke isn't at the peak of happiness, but Christine has already done the legwork on MAC's Cool Heat Collection so just check out her swatches and reviews!
Cool Heat Collection Swatches - hereAre you going to head to the store today to check out MAC's Cool Heat Collection? Anything on that "must have" list?
Cool Heat Collection Review & Comparison - here
Cool Heat Slimshine Product Photos - here
Cool Heat Eye Shadow Product Photos - here
Aloha,
Mrs. Lynne
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May 30, 2008
MAC Product Releases: MAC Tendertone Swatches
MAC Cosmetics releases yet another Limited Edition Collection and you know what that means! I'm ready with my tykes to get them swatches! I got rather lucky this time around through since my mother-in-law was off and had to go to the mall to make a payment. I still rolled them to the store with me while she walked around Macy's, but at least I had comfort in knowing someone could roll them around if I needed the extra time.
*wipes forehead*
PRICE
For $14.50 USD, you can own this lip conditioning item. Not necessarily out-of-price in comparison to most of MAC's lip products but definitely not budget friendly for those who are used to $0.99 Bonnie Bells.
PACKAGING
The MAC Tendertones are packaged in jars exactly like those of the MAC Paint Pot. This will probably not sit well with those who prefer tubes for sanitation purposes, but with these gems getting snatched up left and right, I think some have made peace with the packaging presentation.
SMELL/TASTE
For those that need their smell and taste senses satisfied, you'll be happy to know that these MAC Tendertones are served with strawberry-kiwi flavoring. It's almost like having a Jolly Rancher that conditions and glossifies your lips also! Mmmm... tasty.
PRODUCT CONSISTENCY
These Tendertones are far more emollient than the consistency of other lip balms that come to mind. It truly is like lipgloss in a jar or in MAC terms, similar to that of the MAC Lipgelee. Knowing that though, I'm wondering if it would have been better to offer this product in a tube since it does seem like it can get pretty messy if you don't own a lip brush.
THE EXPERIENCE
MAC Tendertones are really conditioning for the lips. I felt my lips being pampered big time with that Shea Butter. Combine that with a bit of color and a smooth application and I could easily sass up lipstick anytime. The strawberry-kiwi flavoring is a nice touch to the product. It really is a treat for the senses. I'm not one to maximize the benefit of flavored lip products since I'm not point on in licking my lips, but for the sake of review, it tasted really good. Think of Jolly Ranches for le puckers!
WHAT I LIKE
- The dual action of the product; balm and gloss in one!
- That some of the colors have pearl in them.
- The strawberry-kiwi flavoring is delicioso.
- It contains Shea Butter - I love products with Shea Butter.
- SPF protection.
- The packaging. Although I love those jars, I actually would rather have this product available in a tube because of the consistency. Getting more on my fingers than what needs to be or always having a lip brush on hand for application doesn't necessarily have me doing cartwheels. Ok, I'm lazy! Hah.
I can see why the collection was very likeable the first time around. The product is exactly like that of a gloss yet contains Shea Butter to help condition the lips and SPF 12 to protect. It glides easily on the lips with it's non-sticky formula and with different tints to choose from, I love the option on wearing it alone to directly nurture the lips or to top off my favorite lipstick for an added glossy sheen. Majority of the colors are made with either red, gold, or white pearl which adds extra sass that you'd only find in traditional lipglosses, not lip balms.
Should you run out and get one? If you don't have a lip conditioning product and like the thought of having a 2-in-1 lip balm/gloss product, then yes. Other than that, you probably already have some good lipgloss picks in your collection that could use some love.
Have you had a chance to peep out the MAC Tendertones yet?
Aloha,
Mrs. Lynne
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May 23, 2008
MAC Product Releases: Solar Field Swatches
Solar Field is another one of those must see collections... but really? Does MAC ever make collections that do other than spike the curiosity in all of us?
The Solar Bits are pigment-like creations but are more chunkier than your normal pigments. This is due to the dual-mode application that these hot little numbers pack. As MAC says, you can either
- "swish the brush over the top of the clusters for a sheer shimmer or
- crush them for more intense colour effect and sparkle."
They also are packaged in a container similar to the MAC Lip Conditioner instead of the pigment jar. The wider opening will definitely make this product much easier to use.
My pick? I'm a sucker for them all, but if I could only pick one, then Black Ore it is. But wait! Bronzescape is pretty too...
As for the Solar Field Bronzing Powders, they very much compliment the whole "alternate sun power" theme. With the weather starting to warm up, tans are on the loose and these bronzers will help to kiss the skin with that same thought in mind.
My pick? I personally like Refined Golden for that nice touch of sun against my skin. For the lighter skinned folks, a slight sweep of Solar Riche is tender enough and inviting.
So how 'bout it? Is MAC's Solar Field Collection on your list also?
Aloha,
Mrs. Lynne
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May 22, 2008
MAC Product Releases: Neo Sci-Fi Swatches
A Neo Sci-Fi Love Child!
Set to release next week, yet ANOTHER MAC Collection debuts early! Well, as many may have come to cast judgment on this collection due to its loud orange casing, I think there will definitely be a change of heart for many. This collection contains many more user-friendly colors that are very suitable for the Summer season (or any season to be exact!).
The MAC Neo Sci-Fi Collection offers 5 lipsticks and 4 lipglasses, each interchangeable to create a multitude of color combinations. The lipsticks range from Lustre to Glaze to Frost while the lipglasses pair beautifully next to their mates.
My picks? Sci-Fi Delity l/s and Soft & Slow l/g. Can we say gorgeous?!
The eyeshadows are released with 5 different colors to choose from. And with soft textures coming from Veluxe Pearl and Frost formulas and notable color payoff, these are sure to be making some people very happy.
My picks? Honestly, I like them all! They all work so well with each other.
Unfortunately, I didn't realize that I had only swatched two of the three Cremestick Liners, but they are all part of the permanent line anyways so there's no pressure in snatching these in a hurry.
My pick? Although I didn't get to swatch it, I'd go with Beurre or Summerfruit.
Ok, powder blush in the house! *standing ovation* These babies are very finely milled and very soooft! Definitely check these honeys out!
My picks? Spaced Out.! You just absolutely must!!
I ran out of time to swatch the nail polishes, but the Plasma Blu is very funky, bold, and pretty. The MA that was helping me today had it on his nails and the color looked amazing!
Overall, this collection is worth a look. I believe it delivers more than what met the eye when the preliminary information started to leak.
I surprisingly didn't grab anything from this collection but trust me when I say it's not because I didn't find any of it appealing. That is quite an understatement! But I decided to exercise self-control (which there is not much to begin with) and actually stuck to my word.
So needless to say, I will be living through each of you as you haul this collection. What are we bringing home from Neo Sci-Fi?
Aloha,
Mrs. Lynne
*Image Source: SandraBullockFan.com and JenniferLopez.com
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May 1, 2008
MAC Product Releases: Naughty Nauticals Swatches And The Stroller-LESS Voyage
With Summer just around the corner, MAC's new Summer releases are slowly making their way into the public eye. The newest of the releases that hit counters and stores today is Naughty Nauticals; a collection focused on pinks, corals, reds, and blues. Reminds me of the Nautica racks in Macy's.
As the minutes approach to opening, I hang tight in the truck making sure I have everything ready for my voyage to the M-A-C. Stuffing my face with Burger King's Sausage & Cheese Croissan'wich, I prep myself for anything and everything.
Then it happens...
I'm amped up ready to take on another venture with my crazy offsprings and as I pop open the trunk hoping to find an offspring transporting device, there lies.... NOTHING! No stroller, just an empty compartment!! My jaw drops open and I don't know if I'm ready to cry or start roaring hymns of blasphemy. After a few seconds of mental irrational reacting (and deep breathing - I'm a PRO at this!!), I tell myself that I'll just take a look at the collection anyways. If I can swatch, I can swatch. If not, then no worries. I'll just go another day.
Here's the mental image for you. Mrs. Lynne with Baby Tyke packed in an Evenflo Snugli and Big Tyke holding one of my hands. I decide to trot by the Macy's counter instead of the store because for some reason this seemed a little more accommodating for the situation - how I came up with that, don't ask, lol!
Well, today must just be a blessed day because although Big Tyke decided it was neat to check out the escalator right next to the counter by "unexpectedly" taking a ride on it (total "had-to-be-there" moment, lol!), he did manage to sit next to me and draw on a piece of paper majority of the time.
*Note to self: buy more small notepads and pens to keep in the truck... or an etch-a-sketch.
The collection overall is quite nice. If you liked or missed out on Neutral Pink from N Collection, you'll want to check out Illegal Cargo as it is similar but in a nice Frost formula rather than Satin as Neutral Pink is. Shore Leave and Mutiny pigment are also worth a look . The Technakohl eyeliners are both pretty but no need to rush as those are permanent.
The lip products are really pretty also. Party Mate is my choice of lipstick while Love Knot and Hey, Sailor Lustreglasses were eye catching.
And if you need a true red or navy nail polish, then the Nail Lacquers of this collection are just for you.
Although I liked more of the collection than what came home with me, I decided to take heed to the pigments instead. Welcome Bell-Bottom Blue, Lovely Lily, and Mutiny pigments. Make yourself right at home.
Have you finalized your Naughty Nauticals list 'o lemmings? What's on it?
Aloha,
Mrs. Lynne
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April 24, 2008
MAC Product Releases: Dazzleglass Swatches
MAC Dazzleglass... yet another product release born premature this year. But in the sense of beauty products, premature releases aren't necessarily a bad thing.
So I got the word that Dazzleglass was setting foot in MAC stores today and collected the color information on a piece of paper, so that I could keep track of my swatching, as I headed out the door... tykes in full effect.
Go swatching mama,... GO!
I head to the nearest mall, packing my double stroller accordingly making sure gizmos and gadgets are in their proper positions so that at a moment's notice, I can pull the distractions out if need be. As I approached the MAC store, I was presently surprised that the store was empty! Not a MA in sight... well, until their heads peered out from behind the black counters as they inventoried the rest of the Dazzleglasses.
As I started swatching the first couple of products, I was just in delight seeing my hand slowly twinkle like crazy from the pearl reflects. I continued to swatch and I slowly got that "I want them ALL" feeling. Oh, MAC! You sure know how to make a girl yearn.
My thoughts on MAC Dazzleglass? These dazzling tubes of lip candy are definitely going to be claiming some homes within the next couple of weeks. With 16 sizzling colors to choose from, everyone from non-lip addicts to full-blown lip addicts can find something suiting.
The glosses apply sheer but with a pretty nice color payoff and the "dazzle" effect is very tasteful.
The ladies are packaged in a tube of sturdy plastic easy to mistake for glass. Although the packaging does lack the weight of glass, the quality of a crystal clear container illuminates the gems that lie within. The tube also contains more product next to most of the MAC lip products available.
For those that take a strong liking to brush tip applicators, you'll be "dazzled" to know this is a standard feature for the product.
I can see myself possibly getting more from this line, but for the time being I only picked up Money, Honey and Spanking Rich. From the swatches, these two really fed my comfort zone. Although I should have just chosen one or the other, as you'll soon see they are pretty similar.
Money, Honey is more rosy in color and plays up the natural rose shade my lips are. This reminds me of my NYX Diamond Sparkle Lipgloss in Rose Sparkle only with a high def glass appeal (read = sexy!).
Spanking Rich on the other hand, has more of a berry tone to it.
So let's get down and discuss the sticky factor.
The consistency of the MAC Dazzleglass is pretty thick compared to your average gloss. This means that when you use the brush applicator to apply the product to your lips, you'll most likely be dipping into the tube a few times to achieve an all even "dazzling" lip. Multiple dipping + air = bacteria... but hey, who's paying attention? *halo*
The glitter used is not chunky or gritty at all. If you're ultra sensitive, you might be able to feel it when it dries but I didn't notice much.
MAC describes the Dazzleglass as "non-sticky, non-tacky, lightweight and moisturizing". Lightweight and moisturizing, yes. Non-sticky and non-tacky? I think this will create major discussion. I think the consistency and feel of the Dazzleglass is comparable to honey. When applying the Dazzleglass in a single swipe, it does seem to create some stickiness due to it's unique thickness.
So the remedy? Either pair it with MAC Lip Conditioner under or build up the layers on Dazzleglass. Either solution will allow your lips to move more freely (unless sticky friction is your forte).
How does it fair on desert lips? The reason I am NOT a fan of sticky or tacky formulas is because it promotes dryness on my lips. When the friction kicks in, the skin on my lips shift outrageously with each smack. So needless to say, I have not met a sticky formula that my lips have approved of, until now. I did notice though that even though the texture did eventually mimic scotch tape, my lips still refrained from tearing into pieces. And that was in applying Dazzleglass to bare lips AND touching it up! Girls of the dry demons... you know adding product to lips who have already evaporated to a sticky state is beauty suicide. But either my lips are getting better, or this is some pretty good stuff.
All in all, I can tolerate a little stickiness once in awhile. I'm not real fond of the mess it makes when taking it off with a tissue (note to self: use napkins instead!), but I'm willing to take one for the team for a little "dazzling glass" action :)
Should you get it? Based on the elegant dazzling effect, totally yes! But if you can't hang with the tolerance in consistency, then pass these up and get yourself an ice cream. At least you can kiss the scoop then lick your lips dry after, hah.
Aloha,
Mrs. Lynne
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