Another Update Blog: Product Testing, and Grad School

Hello everyone!
Another unexpected hiatus from posting for which I apologize.
After seemingly recovering from the horrible cold I caught in August, I've been recovering from a bit of a relapse of that cold. Random fevers, a full rash, painful sore throats; it has been quite a physical ordeal. My appetite is still suppressed, and I've not been able to return to a regular workout regime, which for me, is a different type of mental and physical torture. Since I've been nothing but varying degrees of ill, I've felt completely uninspired, and unenthusiastic about blogging. I've been wearing no makeup most days, which has delayed testing products, as well as my Makeup Play series.

I am hoping that from this week, September 26th, that I will be able to get back into my usual regimes once again. I'm going to start back product testing, and returning to my Makeup Play series. However, given that I am currently in the final year of my Master's Degree, things are extremely hectic, so I may not be able to maintain the weekly blog posts. I may have to reduce my monthly blog posts down from four a month, once per week; to either once or twice per month. Even with the best time management skills, this change in posting is inevitable.

Current Products to Test!

1. Tartlette in Bloom Palette
2. NYX Tame and Frame Eyebrow Pomade
   
3. L'Oreal True Match Super Blendable Concealer
4. L.A. Splash Smitten Waterproof Lip Tint
5. Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick 
6. Inglot (Freedom System) Single Eyeshadow
7. E.L.F Brushes
8. Morphe Brushes
9. Revlon Gel Envy Nail Polish

I am going to be trying my best to get posts out to you, but I do have to prioritize my Grad School work. Thank you for understanding!

Bye everyone (^_^)/

L.A. Colors Eyeshadows (12 Color Palette and 5 Color Matte Palette)

Hello my Mind Palace friends!
I have finally returned. My health took a bit of bump in August hence the lack of posting. However, I am finally feeling better, and finally able to return to blogging. Thank you all for your patience.

Today's post is going to be about some gem eyeshadow palettes from L.A. Colors. L.A. Colors is an inexpensive, and cruelty free brand, that makes some amazing products. In a few of my previous posts, I mentioned a L.A. Color Eyeshadow Pot as my go-to transition shade, and general favourite blending colour; (shade name is Bare Mauve). I recently purchased the 5 Color Matte Palette in Brown Tweed for TT$15; and was gifted the 12 Color Eyeshadow Palette in Brown Buzz last December for Secret Santa.

L.A. Colors Eyeshadow Palettes; Brown Buzz (top), Brown Tweed (below)

12 Color Eyeshadow Palette 

Starting with Brown Buzz, I was blown away with how beautifully these eyeshadows applied and blended. I used this palette predominantly in my Toph Bei Fong inspired Makeup Play look. These shadows are pigmented and soft, and blend like a dream. The palette has a mix of shimmer, and satin finishes, which makes it incredibly easy to use. I will link the Makeup Play post where I used this palette at the end of the post.

L.A. Colors 12 Color Eyeshadow Palette in Brown Buzz

Swatches from Brown Buzz 12 Color Palette (no flash)

5 Color Matte Eyeshadow Palette

An all matte eyeshadow palette that is inexpensive, pigmented, and easy to blend! Sounds too good to be true, but alas L.A. Color killed it. Whether you want a simple look for every day, or want to go smokey glam; this little palette can do it. If you work or go to school, i assure you this little palette will become an essential, as it makes doing your makeup on a morning easy and effortless. This is also a great complementary palette to own, since it will be easy to work in any single eyeshadow you own to produce a multitude of looks. I will be doing more looks incorporating this palette in the upcoming weeks, so stay tuned to my Instagram.

Brown Tweed Matte Eyeshadow Palette

Swatches of Brown Tweed

Concluding Remarks
Both of these palettes have beautifully pigmented eyeshadows, that blend easily, and that do not make your wallet cry. I find myself reaching for the 5 Color Matte Palette whenever I do eyeshadow, so it is a product that can very easily sneak into your everyday makeup essentials. I am planning on purchasing more of the Matte Palettes in order to determine the consistency throughout the line, and I may do a full dedicated post about them in the future.

Thank you all for stopping by, and I hope you have a wonderful day.
I will see you all again very soon. Stay happy, healthy and positive until next time!
Bye (^_^)/

Links: Makeup Play #2 
http://jsmindpalace.blogspot.com/2016/06/makeup-play-2-easy-fun-greens-aka.html

Update

Hey everyone, unfortunately, I've been ill for over a week, and am unable to work on the review post I was planning.
Hopefully, I will get better within this upcoming week, and be able to return to regular posting.

Bye guys (^_^)/

Makeup Play #3: Orange You Irate?

Hello everyone!
I am back, and I am super excited to return to the blog.

Today, I'm posting the details behind a look I posted recently on my Instagram:

Instagram @ladyjpsych

If you don't follow me on Instagram, nor have read any of my previous Makeup Play Posts, the general idea behind this series is, I ask my friends to choose any colour of their liking, and I have to incorporate them into a makeup look.

This time, the colours they chose were:

1. Yellow (Gold)
2. Green
3. Burnt Orange 

My friends have a wicked sense of humour. Luckily I do own a ridiculously beautiful orange eyeshadow, multiple shades of green, however, since I don't own a strict yellow eyeshadow, I was allowed to improvise with a yellow gold.

Eyeshadows Used:

L.A. Colors Eyeshadow Pot in Bare Mauve as my transition shade, and also to help blend out the orange eyeshadow.

Sacha Cosmetics Eyeshadow in High Voltage Orange - I used this in the crease, for that beautiful, warm burnt orange colour. Blending it out with Bare Mauve toned down the intensity of the shade. Although it is listed as a Frosted Eyeshadow on Sacha's website, in person it is more of a satin.

Colourpop Cosmetics Super Shock Shadow in Hammered - By far my favourite green eyeshadow. A smokey, olive green, with gold reflects; it satiates my desire for MAC's Sumptuous Olive.

Milani Cosmetics Powder Eyeshadow in Gold Dust (discontinued) - I still don't know why Milani discontinued this line of single eyeshadows because they were the most beautifully pigmented, easy to blend and affordable eyeshadows. I tend to use Gold Dust strictly to highlight, since I personally find it far too yellow for my eyelids. I prefer brass or coppery gold all over the lid.

From left to right - Bare Mauve, H.V. Orange, Hammered, Gold Dust

This look required a lot of blending, and a lot of patience. Although the Sacha eyeshadow is easy to blend, and extremely pigmented, and it was difficult trying to not overblend the eyeshadow, or blend it out too high. I spent 20 minutes on each eye just ensuring that the orange was strong but not overwhelming alone. There were moments when I wanted to scrap the look, however, since my friends were holding me to the challenge, I powered through.

If you're wondering, yes I wore this to work...*anywho*...I kept the rest of the look fairly simple, a touch of eyeliner, tons of mascara ( L'Oreal Voluminous Butterfly Sculpt), Kat Von D Lolita on the lips, and City Color Cosmetics Be Matte Blush in Papaya on the cheeks.

This was one of the more time consuming, and challenging looks simply because I've never worked with orange eyeshadow before; but it was fun nonetheless, and I truly love how the look turned out. I would definitely wear this look again.

Thank you all so much for stopping by. I hope you all enjoyed. My next post is going to be a review, so until then, stay happy, healthy, and positive.
Bye (^_^)/

Product Review: L'Oreal Voluminous Butterfly Sculpt Mascara

Hello everyone!
I know it has been a while since my last post, and I apologize. I've been out on internship and it has left me super tired and extremely busy.
However, it has given me the opportunity to test out a new mascara, since all I've been using is the Revlon Ultimate All-In-One mascara.
I recently purchased the L'Oreal Voluminous Butterfly Sculpt mascara, and seeing that I am already a huge fan of the original Voluminous Butterfly Mascara, I was hoping to love this as much.

L'Oreal Voluminous Butterfly Sculpt Mascara in Blackest Black

Firstly, purple packaging is a yes. I love purple! Now, apart from my colour bias, this mascara is really good. It does a great job at giving volume and lift to my eyelashes, and it also defines each individual lash, making my lashes look fuller.

Awkward angle is awkward, but the difference between mascara and no mascara is obvious

Finished Face w/  L'Oreal Voluminous Butterfly Sculpt Mascara

For me personally, the brush is what I love about this mascara. Tiny bristles run along one side of the wand, and they hold onto each lash for great definition and lift.
The wand does hold onto a lot of product, but it does not make the lashes clump, or at least not my lashes.

Voluminous Butterfly Sculpt wand.

The formula reminds me of the original Voluminous Butterfly, so nothing incredibly special there. It does not smudge, or flake on me, and I've worn this on the rainiest days without it smearing or running.

Summary:

• Voluminous Butterfly Sculpt is a great mascara. It gives beautiful, sculpted, lifted, and volumised eyelashes.
• It does not smudge, swear, flake or run. ( I don't use waterproof mascara)
• The wand does hold onto a lot of product so be wary.

 Question is...would I repurchase? - Yes, I think I will be. I've been using it nearly everyday since I've bought it, and I do really love the way my eyelashes look after I've applied it.  Mascara is one of my must-have products, and I can see myself using this as long as it is available.

Thank you all for stopping by my blog; I hope you all have a great weekend.
As always, stay happy, healthy, and positive. Given the recent state of the world, please stay safe.

Bye guys!

 

Makeup Play #2: Easy & Fun Greens a.k.a Wearable Toph Inspired Makeup

Earlier this year, my good friend introduced me to the world of Avatar: The Last Airbender, and I binge-watched hard. When Toph Beifong was introduced, I knew that I had found my favourite "hero" character; Uncle Iroh is pretty much the best.

I decided to try and do series of looks for each of the elements, and for my favourite characters throughout the series, although I have hit a bit of snag in doing this, this Toph Inspired Makeup, was undoubtedly one of the best makeup looks I've ever done. The week I did this look, my friend, M. chose green as my makeup colour for the day.

Close Up on my Toph Inspired Makeup

For a Toph Beifong Inspired Look, I needed greens and yellow to represent her Earth Bending, but also some cool silvers or greys to represent her Metal Bending.

 I ended up using eyeshadows from two (2) different palettes; one inexpensive and one "high-end". The greens and yellow I used were from the L.A. Colors 12 Color Eyeshadow Palette in Brown Buzz.

L.A. Color 12 Color Eyeshadow Palette - Brown Buzz

N.B: I will be doing a full review with swatches on this palette.

The 3 shades marked with a white dot, are what I used on the eyelid. The second green is the main colour on the lid, while the third was used in the outer corner to build depth and definition. I blended out crease with L.A. Color Eyshadow Pot in Bare Mauve. The first green, I mixed in with a touch of yellow for a sparkling inner corner highlight.
 

The second palette used was the Smashbox Full Exposure Palette, and I used this mainly for the lower lash line.

I used the last two shimmer shades on the inner and outer portions respectively, and the second to last matte shade to gently blend it out.

Finished face

Doing this look made me fall in love with green eyeshadow, and definitely encouraged me to step out of my neutral zone.
Until next time, stay happy, healthy and positive, and I will talk to you again soon!
Bye guys!
(^_^)/

Product Review: Milani Shadow Eyez 12 HR Eyeshadow

Hello everyone!

Another quick review coming your way today. This post was supposed to be done last week, but I was under the weather after getting completely drenched in rain last week (>_<)'.

A couple months ago, I picked up two (2) of the Milani Shadow Eyez pencils to test out. I've seen and heard a lot of buzz about them since they initially launched, but because of my oily skin, and the intense weather here in Trinidad, I didn't think they would work well on me.
I did buy these both on sale for TT$26, and they retail for approximately US$7.49 on the Milani Cosmetics website. 

My Milani Shadow Eyez Pencils

Shades: 
09 Café Au Lait - Cool-toned Brown (Matte)
10 Almond Cream - Neutral Beige (Matte)

I chose these shades for a couple reasons;

1. They were on sale!
2. Emilynoel83 always talks highly of the Shadow Eyez in Almond Cream, and if she's says it is good, then it must be good.
3. Jackie Aina videos were the first time I saw Café Au Lait in use, and I just fell for the shade.

Swatch:

Almond Cream (top), Café Au Lait (bottom)

Product Claim: This water-resistant and crease-proof eyeshadow pencil can be worn multiple ways—as a shadow, liner and highlighter. (from Milani Cosmetics Website)

My Experience: When I first swatched these pencils, I was amazed how creamy and silky they were, and their pigmentation is amazing! The swatches shown above are one swipe of each pencil. I use Almond Cream as a highlighter under my brows, and sometimes to brighten up the inner rim of my eyes. It never smudged in my waterline, and most waterproof pencils smudge on me, since my eyes tend to get watery quite easily these days. This product lives up to its claim of being water-resistant.
As an eyeshadow or eyeshadow base, these pencils work magnificently well. They blend easily onto the eyes, and they stay put. I haven't experienced any creasing while using it as a base, nor have I had problems blending powder eyeshadows over them. 

The only jumbo eyeshadow pencils I have that I can compare this with are the Rimmel ScandalEyes Eyeshadow Stick. They have a similar feel, very creamy and silky. Both have great pigmentation, and no smudging or smearing while in the waterline. Both are great products and you won't be disappointed with either in my honest opinion.

I love multi-use products like this, and I've been contemplating getting a couple more shades to use as fun pops of colour, since the ones I own don't budge even on the most humid days.
I also love when a product lives up to its claims, and when you get a great product on sale, even better!

I hope you all enjoyed today's post, and I hope you have a wonderful weekend. I have a quiz to go study for, so I will catch you next week (hopefully).
Stay happy, positive and healthy guys!
Bye (^_^)/

Product Empties: Skincare and Makeup

Hello and welcome everyone!

Today is a quick post about products I've used up, or am about to completely finish, and give you a small update on the products, if I've reviewed them before.

Skincare:

1. Simple Smoothing Facial Scrub - This scrub is the purest definition of non-abrasive exfoliant. It is perfect for anyone with sensitive skin, as it does not irritate the skin, nor does it have any fragrance or perfume. However, for my skin, it was far too gentle. I have oily/combination skin, and sometimes my skin needs something with a bit more grit to it. Lately, my skin has been tumultuous and this scrub did not cut it. At the moment, I'm back to using Freeman's Charcoal & Black Sugar Polishing Mask, which I adore. Although this scrub is nice, it isn't a favourite, and sadly this is one Simple product I will not be repurchasing.
   
2. Bio-Oil - I already have a back-up bottle of this stuff. I really love Bio-Oil. It has helped with my hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone greatly. This product is amazing. 

Makeup:

1. Revlon Brow Fantasy in Dark Brown - I know you're probably looking at the picture and saying that it is not nearly used up, however, the brow gel has begun to dry out, and the pencil is now merely a stub. This is my usual everyday, go-to product, but I do want to try something different for a bit. Would I repurchase? Yes, I would. It is a great two-in-one product to have especially if you're always on the go, and need to do your brows in a pinch.
   
2. Urban Decay Primer Potion (Original) - A fresh tube of UDPP is an amazing experience. Perfectly smooth application, that allows for creaseless eyeshadow wear all day.
   An old tube of UDPP is a wreck. I found that the product itself did not apply well to my eye region, my eyeshadows ended up creasing within a couple of hours of wear. I already have a second un-opened UDPP that was gifted to me by a friend, which I will hold onto, because I've really been enjoying my Milani Eyeshadow Primer. Although the UDPP is great, the Milani Primer does the same job, maybe even better job, and is a fraction of the price. Sorry UDPP, you've been benched!
   
3. L'Oreal Magic Nude Liquid Powder Makeup (328 Sun Beige) - It took so long to finish using this foundation, because a little goes a long way. I love the finish and the weightless feel of this foundation. In recent months, Trinidad's temperature has been hitting some staggering highs, and this foundation never completely broke down. My oils would break through the foundation, but rarely did I ever notice the product disappearing from my face. In the extreme heat, it held its ground. Would I repurchase? Yes, I would but only if the price drops at my local stores. TT$100 really??? L'Oreal True Match and Maybelline Matte and Poreless are both less expensive, and I absolutely love them, and I would quicker repurchase them. 

 See, a super quick and simple post. My internet has been dropping all day, hence the super late post. Nonetheless, thank you all so much for stopping by this crazy place known as J's Mind Palace. I'm J, and I hope you all enjoy your weekend!

Bye guys!
(^_^)/

Makeup Play #1: Positive Princess in Pink

For the past month and a half, I've not felt very inspired to play around with my makeup. My go-to no makeup-makeup look, was my constant day to day look, with just minor variations of my lipstick or gloss.

On Monday April 18th, I asked some of my friends to pick a colour, and I would use that colour as the central focus of my makeup for the following day. My friend Z, chose pink (her favourite colour is pink). If you're wondering why I called this the Positive Princess in Pink look, I made a promise to be extra positive and happy, as opposed to my usual snarky and biting sarcasm.

I decided to do pink on pink i.e.; pink/mauve and plum eyeshadows paired with a muted pink lip and I actually really loved it.

Positive Princess in Pink :D

Eyes:

Lid Colour: Sephora Colorful Eyeshadow in Hold Me Tight (shimmer)...(apparently this shadow is discontinued) D:

Hold Me Tight - In varying light, the colour shifts from mauve pink with shimmer to semi-metallic pink

Transition: L.A. Colors Eyeshadow Pot in Bare Mauve (matte)

Bare Mauve is neutral brown, perfect transition shade.

Outer Corner & Lower Lash Line: Avon Single Eyeshadow in Plum Burgundy (matte)

Plum Burgundy - Smooth and blendable

 
Eyeliner: 
L'Oreal Infallible Lacquer Liner in Blackest Black (top)
Milani Shadow Eyez in Almond Cream (waterline).

Mascara: Revlon Ultimate All-In-One

Lips:
Colourpop Cosmetics Lippie Stix in Lumiere

I kept the skin very simple. Using my Maybelline Matte and Poreless Foundation and Powder in 310 Sun Beige, and a tiny amount of my Sacha Buttercup Loose Powder, under the eyes. I used the smallest amount of bronzer around the perimeter of my face.

This was a fun, yet simple look to create, and I had so much fun doing it, that for the next few weeks, I got more of my friends to choose colours for me to build looks around. I will be posting the full details for those looks on the blog in the upcoming weeks.

Question: Should I do short videos demonstrating my makeup looks? I'm not a pro makeup artist in any way, but if you would like to see the method to my madness, please let me know?

That's all for today everyone, thank you so much for stopping by my Mind Palace. This is J, and I hope you all had fun. As always stay happy, healthy and positive, and I will talk to you all again very soon.

Bye
(^_^)/.

My No-Makeup Makeup Look

Hello everyone!
If you follow me on Instagram, you would notice that I've been rocking some heavy makeup recently.
I've always been a bit of a minimalist when it comes to my makeup, so recently I've been stepping out of my neutral comfort zone, and been playing around with bolder colours, but I do have my days when I just don't feel like putting in all the effort to do my makeup.

For me, makeup application is usually the most fun, and even therapeutic part of my day, however, I've been extremely tired and run down, essentially burnt out, and it takes a lot out of me to pull off what to many may seem as a basic eyeshadow look.
On those days when I just don't have the energy or will to do a full face of makeup, but I still want to look awake, and pulled together, I turn to my go-to no-makeup makeup look. It is a quick and easy look to do, using some of my favourite drugstore products.

Left (Bare Face), Right (No Makeup-makeup look)

From the picture, the difference is as clear as day.

No-Makeup Makeup Look Requirements: These are my personal requirements, however, you can feel free to alter to your own needs.

• Filled in eyebrows (I wear glasses, so my brows tend to get lost behind my frames)
• Mascara (lifts my eyes, makes me look more awake)
• Evened out complexion 
• Dark circles lightly concealed
• Neutral lips ( usually matte, although I go for the occasional gloss)

Products Used:

• Face: L'Oreal Magic Nude Liquid Powder Foundation (328 Sun Beige)
• Under Eyes: L.A. Girl Pro Conceal (Pure Beige) w/ Sacha Buttercup Loose Powder to set
• Eyebrows: Revlon Brow Fantasy in Dark Brown
• Mascara: Revlon Ultimate All-In-One Mascara (502 Black)
• Lips: NYX Cosmetics Soft Matte Lip Cream in London (SM04)  

Unless I've pre-planned a makeup look, this is my go-to look, and I absolutely love it.
This brings us to the end of this week's post, and I'm sorry that my posting is still a bit sporadic, but I'm truly trying to recover from burn out. I did have a scheduled post for last week but it did not come out the way I wanted so I chose no to upload it.

Anyways, I hope you all have a great weekend! Feel free to follow me on Instagram, and/or Pinterest (J's Mind Palace Blog).
Stay happy, healthy, and positive guys, and I will talk to you soon.
Bye (^_^)/

Links:
 L'Oreal Magic Nude Liquid Powder Foundation 

Revlon Ultimate All-In-One Mascara:
 http://jsmindpalace.blogspot.com/2016/02/product-review-revlon-ultimate-all-in.html

L.A. Girl Pro Conceal: 
 http://jsmindpalace.blogspot.com/2015/11/product-review-la-girl-pro-conceal-in.html

Sacha Buttercup Powder:
http://jsmindpalace.blogspot.com/2015/10/product-review-sacha-cosmetics_16.html

Product Review: Garnier Skin Active Micellar Cleansing Water

Hello Everyone!

I've returned, to bring you a quick product review on the Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water.
Micellar cleansing waters have become an essential item within the beauty community, and this is the first time I've seen a Trinidadian store carrying any brand of Micellar water.

I found mine randomly at my SuperPharm, and it cost me approximately TT$60. The bottle contains 13.5 fl.oz, which is great for the price.

Product Claims: This All-in-1 bi-phase cleanser is surprisingly powerful yet gentle to skin. It effectively removes makeup, cleanses skin and refreshes. A multi-purpose cleanser that contains Micellar technology. The micelles capture and lift away dirt, oil, and makeup without harsh rubbing, leaving the skin perfectly clean and refreshed without over-drying.
This product is also:

• Oil-free
• Alcohol-free
• Fragrance-free

My Hope: My hope for this, was that it could be a suitable replacement for my Maybelline Clean Express Makeup Remover, which I believe is discontinued.
 
My Experience: I used this the very same night I purchased it, and I must say I was impressed. It removed my eye makeup with such ease, and that day I was wearing my waterproof Maybelline Colossal Mascara, and that stuff just does not budge. I also used it to remove any residual residue left behind by my makeup remover wipes.

Post-Mascara Removal

Now, this photo isn't the greatest quality, however, this product did a really good job at removing the waterproof mascara, without me having to harshly rub my eyes with the cotton pad. Unlike the Maybelline Clean Express Makeup Remover, it does not leave behind any slickness, the Micellar Water just leaves your face feeling refreshed and clean.

I actually really enjoyed using this, and it is good for spot clean ups also, especially for winging out your eyeliner.

Conclusion: Considering the price, and the amount of product that you'll be getting, this is a good product to invest in. To me, it is a good replacement for my Maybelline Makeup Remover, and it feels better on my skin. I'm actually pleasantly surprised that I enjoy using this product, and it is now a staple on my vanity.

Thank you all so much for stopping by for this quick review. I know I've been missing in action (M.I.A), for close to 5 weeks now, but my semester is really long and drawn out, and I've just been getting increasingly fatigued and frustrated with it all. I do hope to be back to posting regularly now, however, I have become more active on my Instagram (@ladyjpsych), so feel free to follow me there. Again, thank you for the support, and as always until next time, I hope you all stay happy, healthy and positive.

Bye (^_^)/

Link: Maybelline Clean Express Review: http://jsmindpalace.blogspot.com/2015/06/maybelline-clean-express-makeup-remover.html

J's Thoughts: A Quick Update

Hey everyone!

I know it has been quite some time since I last posted (almost 1 month), but I honestly needed the time not only to take care of myself, and to catch up on my assignments. Although I've missed blogging, I really needed the time to look after myself, and to spend time with family and friends. I will not be returning to full posts just yet, but I am hoping by next Saturday, I will be back with into blogging, posting reviews and just chatting. I know in my last post I didn't go into detail about what exactly I was going through, but it did help to alleviate some of the negative emotions that had  been weighing down on me.

I keep forgetting that one purpose of this blog is to give myself a safe space to express myself and to express my feelings. it is time I inject more humanity, and reality into my blog, therefore, from here on out, I will be including posts related to psychology (my field of interest), along with regular beauty/makeup posts.

Thank you for being patient with me.
I hope you all have a wonderful day.

Bye guys.
(^_^)/

Learning to Cope with Grief

Hello everyone!

Today, I'm doing a very different post. Earlier this week, I lost someone very dear to me, and I have been going through the emotional roller coaster that is grief. I've spent so much of life being a rock for others, that I've neglected tuning into and feeling my own emotions. Not this time!
I've become very aware of my emotions, and have chosen not diminish their meaning. When someone asks me how I am, rather than simply stating I'm okay, I acknowledge that I'm feeling sad, or angry, and it actually makes me feel better knowing that I'm not hiding what I am truly feeling.

I know I've made this blog into my space for talking about makeup or video games, but I feel that there is a need for me to be real and raw sometimes, and to just put whatever is on my mind out into the world. I'm not the type of person who freely opens up in conversations (something I'm working on), however, I have this platform to just be free and talk/write about whatever I feel, and today, I feel like talking about the fact that I am sad, but I am trying to cope.

Coping with the death of a loved one is never easy, even if you think you've prepared yourself enough, the emotional toll is still quite severe. You learn that the 5 stages of grief aren't linear stages, they get all jumbled up, and sometimes it makes it harder to acknowledge or know exactly what you are feeling, but it's okay. It's okay to feel confused about what you feel, as long as you feel it. Allow yourself to experience the emotions, the sadness, the anger, even the joy that comes from sharing your favourite memory. Allowing yourself to experience your own emotions is by far one of the healthiest ways to cope with grief. Don't bottle it up!

As much as I am typing this for anyone out their struggling to cope with the loss of someone dear to them, I'm also writing this for me, as a reminder that it is okay to feel what I am feeling. It is okay not to bounce back within the first 2 weeks of their loss. However, it is not okay to bottle up your feelings. It is not okay to alienate the people who care for you, and who are trying to reach out to you. It is okay to feel vulnerable, it is okay to cry.

I feel as though I've unintentionally vented, which truly wasn't the purpose of this post, but honestly, I feel so much better having all these things written in front of me, as opposed to being locked up in my head. If anyone out there is coping with the loss of someone they loved dearly, please don't lock yourself away from experiencing your emotions, or from the people who love you and care for you.

I may take some time away from the blog, but I've yet to decide just how long. I will do some posting on my Instagram, some hauls, selfies, and pictures of my puppy and anything else that I enjoy, so feel free to follow @ladyjpsych on IG.

Until next time lovelies,
Bye.
(^_^)/

Product Review & Swatches: Sacha Cosmetics Intense Matte Lip Velvets

Hello everyone!

I apologize for my disappearing act last week, but I was a bit under the weather, and decided to take it easy, hence no post. However, I'm back today with a review that I am extremely excited to bring to you!
Within recent months, Sacha Cosmetics, which is a Trinidadian brand, launched their Intense Matte Lip Velvets. These are their liquid lip colours, and they're beautiful. I had a few friends raving to me about these Lip Velvets, so I decided why not give them a try. I must say Sacha did a great job on these. From packaging, to colour range, Sacha hit the nail on the head.

Sacha Intense Matte Lip Velvet

Price:

• At local Pennywise stores, these cost TT$44, while at Sacha Image Centres they cost TT$50. I don't believe these are available online at website. 

Packaging:

• I adore the packaging of this product. I really love polka dots, and paired with the flat matte finish of both the glass bottle and plastic lid, it screams cute and chic. 

Applicator: 

• This has your everyday doe foot applicator. 

Product:

• The texture of the lip velvets are very reminiscent of the NYX Soft Matte Lip Creams, which I adore. They are soft, velvet smooth, and they aren't extremely drying on the lips. 
• For me, they are opaque in one coat/application, but you can build up the intensity if you like. 
• These don't have any fragrance or scent to them, so if you're sensitive to fragrance, you can give these a try. 
• I've heard positive reviews from persons with extremely sensitive skin and lips about these, and they don't cause them any irritation.
• These are not completely budge proof, but they do hold up after eating and/or drinking. 
• They don't flake like the L.A. Girl Matte Flat Finish Pigment Gloss, and are easier to reapply if needed than the L.A. Girl. 

 Swatches: The following are swatches of the following four (4) shades: 

1. Partner In Crime - Red-Toned Chocolate Brown
2. I'm In The Nude - Neutral-Toned Nude
3. That's What She Said - Vibrant Purple *(2 layers)
4. Pass The Money - Vibrant Fire Red

Conclusion:
I honestly don't have anything bad to say about these. I've been wearing Partner In Crime and I'm In The Nude, almost everyday since I bought them, and they really are some amazing lip products. For the price, the quality of the product is exceptional. I prefer it over my ColourPop Ultra Matte Lip, because this formula is more comfortable on the lips, even if you forget to prep your lips with lip balm. The L.A. Girl Matte Flat Finish Pigment Glosses can't stand up to these. These are honestly one of the best matte lip colours I've tried. This and the Revlon Ultra HD Matte Lip Color are my new go-to liquid lip colours.

If you can get your hands on these, you definitely should. They are worth every cent. I would definitely recommend these to everyone!
Great job Sacha Cosmetics!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I haven't worn That's What She Said because it is the latest one I've recently added, but I will be trying it out on the lips very soon. Stay tuned to my Instagram (@ladyjpsych) for pictures of that.
I'm considering doing a full lip swatch picture on my IG, so please let me know if you'd like to see that.

Until next time, stay happy, healthy, and positive!
Bye!
(^_^)/

Product Review: Revlon Ultimate All in One Mascara

Hello everyone!

For this past week, I've been testing out the new Revlon Ultimate All in One Mascara.

Revlon Ultimate All-In-One Mascara in 502 Black

Product Claims: 

• High impact formula delivers the Ultimate 5 in 1 benefits:
• Volume
• Length
• Definition
• Lift
• Rich, intense color

This product also has an uber tiny mascara wand, referred to as the Revlon Power Mini Brush, made for easy application.

Revlon Power Mini Brush...it's so tiny!

Now, I'm picky when it comes to mascaras. I want volume, lift and intense colour, which are 3 things this mascara claims to give, so I decided why not give it a shot...although it costs TT$61.
For the price point alone, I was praying this wasn't gimmicky.

This mascara is hands down one of the best mascaras I've ever used. It volumises and lifts my lashes like something out of a dream. It lengthens and gives great definition to each individual eyelash, and it is intensely pigmented. I didn't experience any flaking or smudging with this product. It didn't smear or run on the days my eyes were watery.

Hello Eyelashes, Nice to see you! Only one coat of mascara.

The power of this mascara comes down to the brush. Revlon knew what they were doing with this little guy. It picks up every little eyelash, and coats them with product, making them visibly longer, fuller, and darker than they actually are. My friends were actually able to see my eyelashes, and complimented them, which was a definite first, and I've already started throwing recommendations out for this mascara.

This mascara has gone from testing, to everyday must have. I am officially in love with this mascara, and I'm probably going to be testing out the others in this range. I already have the Ultra Volume Mascara (pink cap) from Revlon, that I will be trying out next month.

Revlon has been killing it with some of their new releases lately. I wasn't supposed to post this this week, however, I just love it so much I had to make a post about it.

Feel free to let me know your favourite mascara at the moment in the comments.

I hope you all have a great weekend!
Stay happy, healthy, and positive, and I shall see you all again next Saturday!
Bye guys!
(^_^)/

Review: Revlon Ultra HD Matte LipColor

Hey everyone! Welcome back!

Today, I'm doing a quickie review on the Revlon Ultra HD Matte Liquid LipColor. 

I have this in the shade Passion, which is a beautiful red. Prior to purchasing this, I saw a lot of mixed reviews on this particular product, and was very apprehensive when purchasing mine. However, since purchasing this, I've worn it for almost 2 weeks straight. I've been out of the habit of wearing red lips, but this product made me fall back in love with red lips.

Revlon Ultra HD Matte LipColor in Passion

The consistency of this product is perfect, it isn't pure liquid, nor is it too creamy. If I had to give a specific texture, it'll be almost gel like. It glides onto the lips easily, and I haven't been a victim of it bleeding or moving outside of my lip line. It takes a long time to completely dry down, which is a bit of a hassle, however, a quick blot with a tissue and you're good to go. I ritually blot my lips when it comes to any lipstick, cream or liquid, just to ensure it doesn't get onto my teeth, so this step didn't bother me, nor did it impact my opinion on this product. 

The applicator on this liquid LipColor is divine. It is small, and triangular making application a breeze.

Revlon Ultra HD Matte Applicator

 

My only problem with this product is the scent. It smells like cherry cough syrup. I guess it fits with the colour of the product but I could do without the strong fragrance.

Swach of Ultra HD Matte LipColor in Passion

I've truly been enjoying using this product, despite the strong fragrance, however, I know many people wouldn't consider this to be a true liquid lipstick, since it doesn't dry down to a full matte finish in a short period of time. It does manage to last through eating and drinking, and wears comfortably and beautifully throughout the day. It is small enough to fit in your pocket, so it is great for me whenever I want a punch of colour on the go. 

I would personally recommend this to my friends, but only this shade since I am yet to try others from the line.

I'm sorry about the short review, however, I have a lot of stuff going on personally right now, and my time is very divided.
This may be my last post of the next two weeks, depending on how things go, however, I am in the process of testing some products out, and I hope to bring those reviews to you very soon.
Until next time, stay happy, healthy and positive.
Bye (^_^)/

Product Review: Jordana Cosmetics Cat Eye Liner

Hello everyone, and welcome back to my blog!
I hope you all had a wonderful week, and are currently having a relaxing and chilled Saturday.
Today, I'm going to be doing a first impression review on the Jordana Cat Eye Liner in the shade Orchid.
Admittedly, I've never been the biggest fan or liquid eyeliner, especially the ones with the tiny pointed brush or felt tips and ink wells. I much prefer a felt tip pen liner or gel eyeliner. However, this eyeliner is the first of its kind that I haven't flung across my room due to pure unadulterated hatred.

Jordana Cosmetics Cat Eye Liner in Orchid

Product Claims: 
 Cat Eye Liner

The Purrfect Cat Eye

•Lightweight, Long Wearing, Smudge-Proof Color that Lines & Defines Eyes

•From Novice to Pro; Easy To Use, Tapered Brush Applicator

•Smooth Application

My Experience:
I wore it last Sunday for the first time since purchasing it, and I was very thoroughly impressed. Not only was it pigmented, but it applied very easy, and got opaque quickly. This isn't a single swipe, and bam! perfect eyeliner, you do have to go over a couple times to build the desired opacity, and precision, however, the result is worth it. In my previous experience with coloured liquid eyeliner, they usually difficult to apply, and lack opacity.
The brush is extremely fine, and this allows for precision, and control so the product only goes where you want it to. The long handle adds to the control, and makes application a lot easier. Thank you Jordana for giving us a long handle liquid eyeliner....thank you!

Brush tip and handle, Jordana Cat Eye Liner

 Price: TT$32 (Superpharm), which is a great price for liquid eyeliner.

Longevity (Wear time): This lasted very well for me, I was a hot and humid room for close to 4 hours, and there was no signs of flaking or smudging onto my crease. This eyeliner is not waterproof, it actually comes off easily with water.

Conclusion: For the price, this is a good liquid eyeliner. I love the colour, and the brush, and have been considering purchasing a few other colours, once this is one has finished. After discovering the L'Oreal 24HR Lacquer Liner, and the Milani Eye Tech Extreme, my two Holy Grail eyeliner products, I never thought I would use a regular liquid eyeliner again, but this Cat Eye Liner from Jordana, has shaken things up. If you like fun, bright colours, the Cat Eye Liner comes in 8 shades, and they're super inexpensive. I would recommend to a friend, just remember, it isn't waterproof.

Thanks so much for stopping by today, I hope your weekend continues to be fun and restful.
I will be back next week with another post, so stay tuned.
Stay happy, healthy and positive everyone!
Bye (^_^)/

Best in Beauty 2015: Lips

Hello everyone!
I hope you all had a great week. I'm a bit tired after my first week back to classes, this semester is going to be a tough one.
Today, we finish off my Best in Beauty 2015, with lip products.
I have a fair amount to go through, so let's get started!

Lip Liner 

NYX Nude Truffle (top), Avon Mystery Mauve (below)

 Hands down my most used, and most love lip liners for 2015. Avon Mystery Mauve is a beautiful mauve neutral shade, which I've almost completely used up, and sadly since Avon is no longer available in Trinidad, I can't repurchase it. I'm on the hunt for a similar shade, and I will let you know, once I find it.
Nude Truffle is a beautiful neutral nude shade, both are extremely creamy, and apply easily.

Lip Liner Swatches

Lipstick 

Maybelline Color Sensational Matte - Touch of Spice

Maybelline Touch of Spice

This shade was very "on trend" for 2015. The colour is a mauve toned brown, and it is very creamy and pigmented. Although this is a matte formula, it does not dry out my lips. I'm half-way through my bullet, and considering that I've been heavily into liquid lipsticks in 2015, this is quite the feat.

NYX Simply Nude Lip Cream in Sable 

2015, the year I spoke constantly about this lip cream. It is super buttery, and creamy, extremely pigmented, and doesn't dry out my lips. I don't have a bad thing to say about this product.


Revlon Colorstay Matte Balm Shameless

Revlon Matte Balm Shameless

When applied in 2 or more layers, it is a super vampy, dark purple lip, however, applied lightly, it is a strong vibrant purple. It is very comfortable on the lips, I adore the Revlon Matte Balms, I even got my mom hooked on them now. I have more in my collection, however, for 2015 this was my go-to. I wore it to classes, to go out, I just adore this shade.

L'oreal La Lacque in Lacquey-You

Super shiny, moisturizing, and pigmented. It has a scent similar to Aloe Vera Vaseline, which I actually really like. This was a random, spur of the moment purchase in 2015, but I do really enjoy using this when I'm not feeling for a matte lip. Plus, it is easy enough to keep in my handbag constantly.

Liquid Lipsticks

Kat Von D Lolita Lip Duo

 Lolita is described as a chesnut rose, while Lolita II is a terracotta nude. Very true to description. They last all day on the lips without being extremely drying. They don't flake off at all. I love these. I want more.

Swatches of Lolita and Lolita II

ColourPop Ultra Matte Lip in Limbo 

 Firstly, this is the perfect dupe for LimeCrime Salem. Secondly, it is more comfortable on the lips than the LimeCrime. This was my first experience with Colourpop Cosmetics, and now they have me wishing they shipped internationally. The Ultra Matte Lips are beautifully, and I'm definitely going to get my hands on some more eventually.
It applies easily, takes approximately 10-20 seconds to dry, and is very opaque. Wears well throughout the day, and remains comfortable, with no cracking.

L.A Girl Flat Matte Pigment Gloss in Rebel

 

Can you tell I have a love for purple?! 

Gorgeous colour, however, it is very drying so ensure you moisturise your lips before with a rich lip balm, and exfoliate your lips before use, because this is not a forgiving formula. Nonetheless, it is easy to apply. It does tend to crack at the center of the lip, but despite that I still really like it. Of the 4 I own, this is the most used. 

Lipgloss

Revlon Super Lustrous Lipgloss in Pink Pop 

 

 When applied to the lips, this lipgloss is a sheer wash of pink. This however, has to be one of the most moisturising lipglosses I have ever used. When my lips are feeling dry and sad, but I want to wear a little bit of colour, this is what I turn to. I actual got this on sale, and I'm happy I did. This lipgloss formula is the bomb.

We are finally at the end of this blog post, and the end of my Best in Beauty 2015 series.
Thank you all for coming by today! I truly appreciate it!
As always, I hope you stay happy, healthy and positive! And here's hoping you have a wonderful weekend and week ahead!

Bye!
(^_^)/. 

Links:
NYX Cosmetics Simple Nude Lip Cream in Sable -  http://jsmindpalace.blogspot.com/2015/02/january-2015-favourites.html
L.A. Girl Flat Matte Pigment Gloss - http://jsmindpalace.blogspot.com/2015/08/la-girl-cosmetics-matte-flat-finish.html

Best in Beauty 2015: Face

Welcome back everyone!
I hope you all are doing well.
Today, I have part 2 of my Best in Beauty series, and today it's all about my favourite face products for 2015. Most of the products being mentioned may have full reviews that I will link to at the end the post.

Primer and Mattifier:

elf Cosmetics Mineral Face Primer

New Bottle

This primer is definitely my top pick for 2015. I always repurchase this primer. This primer blurs my pores, and helps my foundation apply more evenly.
Earlier in 2015, I fell in love with the Rimmel Fix and Perfect Primer, but I haven't been able to repurchase it since it hasn't been in stock. However, the elf Mineral Face Primer is cheaper than the Rimmel.

Sacha Cosmetics Mattifier Face Primer 

I do have a full review of this, but to keep it short and sweet. This mattifies the skin beautifully, and keeps me less oily than I would usually be throughout the day. I love the squeeze tube packaging, and its flat black matte finish.

Foundation:

Maybelline Fit Me: Matte and Poreless 310 Sun Beige

I'm currently down to half a bottle of this foundation. I don't think I have anything bad to say about this product, maybe it can use a pump, then again most drugstore foundations don't come with a pump. This just blends effortlessly into the skin, it doesn't matter if you use a sponge or a brush.
My full review will be linked below.

Concealer:

L.A. Girl Pro Conceal in Pure Beige 

I've never really been into using concealer, but doing my Masters' Degree means long, and sometimes sleepless nights, and I also experience insomnia therefore under eye darkness is my old friend. This shade matches my complexion perfectly, and covers up any discolouration or darkness beneath the eyes.

Setting Powder:

Undereyes: Sacha Cosmetics Buttercup Loose Powder

Full review is available.
I have nothing bad to say about this powder. Sacha Cosmetics has greatly improved the quality of their products over the years.
This powder is silky, and just beautiful. I use it to set my concealer under my eyes.
Face: Maybelline Fit Me: Matte and Poreless Powder 

Maybelline Fit Me: Matte-Poreless 310 Sun Beige

Soft, blendable and keeps me matte. (Review will be linked below).

Blush:

Milani Powder Blush in Romantic Rose and City Color Cosmetics Be Matte Blush in Papaya

Both of these blushes are matte in finish, they are also very smooth and pigmented, so a little goes a long way. they blend out easily. Both colours are very neutral, and good for everyday wear.
These blushes wear for a full 8 hours.
The City Color Blushes are a lot cheaper than the Milani, they retail for approximately TT$22-TT$25, while the Milani ranges from TT$55-TT$65.

Milani Romantic Rose (left), City Color Cosmetics Papaya (right)

Setting Sprays: Sacha Fix It & L'Oreal Infallible Pro Spray and Set 

My go-to Setting Sprays

Both set my makeup beautifully, and reduces the "cakey" look that powders leave behind. However, the L'oreal truly prolongs the wear of my makeup throughout the day. The Fix It Spray, while it doesn't prolong the wear of my makeup, does a good job at just setting the face. I tend to interchange my use of these products, hence why they're both 2015 favourites.

I don't bronze, contour or highlight my face, therefore I have no favourites for those categories.


Thank you all so much for stopping by!
Next week, I'll be concluding this Best in Beauty 2015 with Lips. I'm also going to be beginning my second semester for my Masters' Degree, and I am anxious.
As always stay happy, healthy, and positive and I will talk to you all soon.

Bye! (^_^)/

Links:
Sacha Mattifier - http://jsmindpalace.blogspot.com/2015/10/product-review-sacha-cosmetics.html
Maybelline Matte and Poreless (Foundation and Powder) - http://jsmindpalace.blogspot.com/2015/07/maybelline-fit-me-matte-and-poreless.html
L.A. Girl Pro Conceal -http://jsmindpalace.blogspot.com/2015/11/product-review-la-girl-pro-conceal-in.html
Sacha Buttercup Powder - http://jsmindpalace.blogspot.com/2015/10/product-review-sacha-cosmetics_16.html
Setting Sprays - http://jsmindpalace.blogspot.com/2015/07/makeup-battle-royal-4-battle-of-setting.html