how to get "opal" nails

One can only read about classic Essie shades, like Ballet Slippers and Mademoiselle, for so long until you break down and purchase them. I recently picked up both shades, (happy birthday to me!) and decided to try the famous manicure that is supposed to be Essie (yes, the Essie) Weingarten's favorite, which is two coats of Ballet Slippers, followed by one coat of Mademoiselle.

But... this was my birthday mani, so of course, I couldn't just leave it at that. I decided to add one more Essie shade into the mix. I used:

• Two coats of Ballet Slippers
• One coat of Shine of the Times
• One coat of Mademoiselle

Total magic! I wish I could capture the sparkle in a photo, but I can't do it justice. I think they look just like opals!

Revlon ColorBurst Matte Balm & Lacquer Balm - Review & Swatches - Complex & Tease

 After watching Tati, at GlamLifeGuru, swatch a beautiful, wearable, orange lipstick, I knew I had to jump on the bandwagon, and try the new Revlon ColorBurst Balms.

These are yet another chubby stick lip product, which the drugstore has seen lots of recently. But hey, that's not a bad thing!

I picked up Tease, in the Lacquer Balm formula, as well as Complex in the Matte Balm. I've been trying them both out, and I'm pretty impressed.

Both have a minty scent, similar to the Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain, which I liked. They are both moisturizing on the lips, but the matte balm less so. That said, I found it remarkable how the matte balm did not dry the lips out. One tip for the matte colors: pat the color into your lip after you apply. Then it won't sink into the lines of your lips. And exfoliate beforehand!

The lacquer balm is quite pigmented, and about as moisturizing as the Revlon lip butters. I think it's like a more pigmented lip butter, but in a chubby stick. Keep reading for swatches!

Winter Beauty Essentials - Skincare

Living in Michigan means living with all sorts of weather! I'm loving the beautiful and crisp autumn we're experiencing now, but gearing up for the colder weather to come. It always does a number on my skin! I thought I'd share with you some of my favorite things that keep my skin from becoming too parched.

1. Johnson & Johnson Baby Oil Gel $4

This was a Pinterest find, I believe. My legs always get horribly dry and itchy in the winter, and this saved them. Right after a shower, while I'm still sopping wet, I rub this into my legs. It absorbs wonderfully, and doesn't leave my legs greasy. The key is applying it while your skin is still very wet. Otherwise, you will feel a bit greasy. I like the Cocoa Butter one during the winter, just because of the sweeter smell. Bonus, my 2-year-old can use it too!

2. Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré $16

Another Birchbox find! I sampled this over a year ago, and purchased it as soon as the weather turned chilly. It's very hydrating, and absorbs quickly. Embryolisse says that makeup artists use it as a primer, moisturizer, and a makeup remover. All I know is, it leaves my skin feeling blissful.

3. Nivea Lip Care A Kiss Of Moisture $3

Nivea makes all of my favorite lip balms, but A Kiss Of Moisture is my favorite for winter. It's so thick and healing, and I always have a tube nearby! I just picked up two new ones the other day, thanks to sale at Walgreens.

4. Josie Maran Pure Argan Oil $14 / $48

After hearing so many rave reviews of argan oil, I finally broke down and bought a bottle. My favorite way to use it is on my cuticles. I usually get at least one hangnail per day, and don't even get me started about my poor, always-scarred thumbs. But, wow, when I'm faithful to use this everyday, I don't get any hangnails! It's made a huge difference, and my fingers are all thankful! I've also loved using it on my elbows, and in the ends of my hair.

5. True Blue Spa Shea Cashmere Hand Cream $13

Every time I use this hand cream at work, someone stops and asks me what it is, because it smells so delicious, just like buttercream frosting! More importantly, it's quite hydrating. I love keeping a mini bottle in my desk, and in my purse. If you prefer a non-scented lotion, try Aveeno Active Naturals Daily Moisturizing Lotion.

So, that's how I (mostly) don't dry up like a prune by the end of winter! Do you change things up when the seasons change?

Off to warm my hands with some coffee...

Rachel