BellaSugar

Product Review: Urban Decay De-Slick Mattifying Powder

BellaSugar — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 14:00:26 -0700

There aren't many makeup products that leave me feeling totally ickified, but Urban Decay's De-Slick Mattifying Powder ($28) is one of them. Everything from the application method to the way it looks and feels on your face is a colossal disaster.

The hard-pressed light lavender (although it claims to be translucent) powder is difficult to get onto your brush, so you are pretty much forced to use the puff that comes inside. The powder feels chalky to the touch and doesn't spread well. In fact, because it's so oil-absorbent, it makes your skin feel dry, almost like it's cracking.

I was really bummed with the results, because I like a mattifier for my T-zone from time to time, and a powder compact in a cute purple case seemed like a great solution. Unfortunately, I'm afraid that unless you are going for a Bride of Dracula, Dita Von Teese, super-matte, pale face look (or if you happen to be someone with extremely oily skin), I'd steer clear of this powder.

See reader reviews of this product and add your own here!

New Product Alert: Givenchy Prisme Foundation

BellaSugar — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 07:00:33 -0700

New for fall is another unbelievable product by Givenchy called Prisme Foundation. This time, it's a powder foundation that promises to make your skin look as flawless as the face of the brand, Liv Tyler. Well, it doesn't promise... but if you follow the three easy steps, there's little room for error!

It comes in the famous square sleek black palette with four blocks of powder foundation inside. What makes this prisme different from the other blushers, bronzers and highlighters is that the bottom two squares are the same shade, so there are actually just three colors in total-not four. That confused me when I first read about it, so I hope my explanation helps.

It's made from a finely milled, sheer, silicone-coated powder that blends easily and evenly into your skin. In addition, it contains Mat Balance Mica, an ingredient that absorbs sebum and oil so that your skin stays shine-free. It is available in seven shades.

View 4 Photos ›

To learn how to use Prisme Foundation, read more

Step One - Unify Use the sponge that comes in the compact to sweep all three colors evenly all over your face.
Step Two - Illuminate Use the lightest shade to highlight your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose and your chin.
Step Three - Refine Apply the darkest shade along your hairline and your jawline, in the hollows of your cheeks and on your temples to contour your finest features.

Product Review: Chanel Mat Lumière Foundation

BellaSugar — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 07:00:58 -0700

About a month ago I told you about the new Chanel Mat Lumière Foundation. I've been using the SPF 15 liquid formula for a couple of days now and I am so happy with it, I wanted to share some feedback with you.

It glides on smoothly, and all you need is about two pumps to go the distance to cover your face and the top of your neck. It absorbs quickly and leaves a velvety finish on your skin-not a thick, cakey and flaky look like lots of other foundations can.

Also, what I really love is that it absorbs the excess oil on your skin, which is perfect for this time of year. I find that it really evens out my skin tone too, and since it's so smooth, I actually prefer to blend it in with my fingertips (that's how amazingly silky it is).

The only problem is that it's still not out for another few weeks and since I've told so many people about it, I'm running low from giving out so many samples! Basically, I've come to accept why Chanel is so popular. Besides their nail polish, which I find chips horribly and quickly, they are always creating the best.

Coming Soon: Chanel Mat Lumière Collection

BellaSugar — Mon, 16 Jul 2007 15:00:44 -0700

Watch out flawless skin, here comes the newest foundation collection from Chanel called Mat Lumière. Although it's not due out until September, this new formula is already making headlines. Inspired by light, Mat Lumière draws light onto skin creating an illuminating effect, all the while also creating a matte veil (hence the name). The idea is that you no longer have to compromise radiance for a flawless finish!

Unlike most mattifying foundations, which can make skin look dull, dry and heavily powdered, this formula leaves nothing behind besides an invisible velvet coating (made of good-for-you proteins) that absorbs quickly. All that remains is a smooth, even and bright complexion.

The collection comprises three products: an SPF 15 liquid foundation, an SPF 15 cream compact (which comes in a refillable case) and an SPF 10 Éclat Lumière Stylo Embellisseur (concealer pen). All those who suffer from shiny skin can now rejoice!

New Product Alert: Lola Refine Shine Anti-Shine Gel

BellaSugar — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 07:00:30 -0700

Lola Cosmetics Refine Shine Anti-Shine Gel ($24) is a water based mattifying liquid that can be worn either under or over your makeup. Creator Victoria Jackson wanted to invent something absorbent that can be applied to the skin anytime you feel a like you're becoming a little bit greasy.

This blotting gel is formulated with tons of antioxidants like guava and grape seed which help to close pores, soften wrinkles and create a velvety smooth finish. It also contains caffeine, biotin and witch hazel extract to detoxify, energize and control sebum production. Lastly, hydrolyzed vegetable proteins ensure that your skin stays moisturized and firm.

It is suitable for all complexions and especially those of you who are looking for a way control shine. Also, here's a tip: if you apply it as a traditional primer, it'll make your makeup last longer!

Matte Matters, Part III: Designer Blotting Papers

BellaSugar — Thu, 31 May 2007 05:07:19 -0700

Welcome to the final installment of Matte Matters, my three-part series on designer blotting papers. (In case you missed them, here's Part I and Part II.) Oil-absorbing sheets have gone high-end, so you can now maintain a flawless matte face on the go and indulge your designer side, too. Here are three more new additions to the high-end blotting market.

Bourjois Anti-Shine Blotting Sheets ($13.50) are powder-free anti-shine papers that help absorb any excess oils and sebum on your face. And who can resist the stylist animal-print package? Each packet contains 50 sheets.

For two more blotting papers, read more

Tarte Little Blot Book ($32) is a two-in-one product. One side houses sheets of translucent matte powder, which is great for setting your makeup, while the other side contains powder-free blotting papers. Both are great shine busters and can be used separately or together.

Sephora Stay Matte Blotting Film ($10) has a unique soft and highly absorbent texture, and the 50-sheet pop-up dispenser makes them super easy to access.

Matte Matters, Part II: Designer Blotting Papers

BellaSugar — Wed, 30 May 2007 05:45:32 -0700

Welcome back to Matte Matters, my three-part series on designer blotting papers. (To read part one, click here.) Until now, oil-absorbing blotting papers like the ones from Papier Poudre were available mainly as a budget buy, but now these products are getting an upgrade. Here are three more new additions to the high-end blotting market.

Rodan + Fields Unblemish Oil Absorb Blot Papers ($19) contain a special ingredient called Zincidone, which not only absorbs shine but also promises to reduce the amount of oil your face produces over time. Each box contains 60 blotting sheets.

For two more blotting papers, read more

Bare Escentuals Shine Control Sheets ($12) will soak up excess oil while leaving your makeup intact and the necessary amount of moisture on your skin. Each package contains 30 sheets.

Paul & Joe Blotting Papers are the biggest bargain of the bunch so far - and probably the cutest product, too. For just $4, you can buy 100 blotting sheets. Although they are a bit smaller than some of the other options, they come in a very cute, mirrored compact for easy touch ups anytime, anyplace.

Matte Matters, Part I: Designer Blotting Papers

BellaSugar — Tue, 29 May 2007 07:00:18 -0700

Since I discovered the new and luxuriously large Perfecting Powdered Sheets from NARS, I've noticed that more and more designer brands are now making blotting papers. Until now, oil-absorbing sheets like the ones from Papier Poudre were available mainly as a budget buy, but now these products are getting an upgrade. So I've put together a three-part series to introduce the new market for designer blotting papers.

Dior Blotting Papers ($21) help absorb any excess oil on your face. All 150 sheets are folded into a beautiful silver envelope with a mirror inside. Simply blot around your T-Zone for a magnificent matte look.

For two more blotting papers, read more

Shiseido Pureness Oil-Control Blotting Papers ($15.50) are powder-coated sheets that help keep your skin dry. They come in a small and flexible plastic pouch that contains 100 sheets.

ModelCo Matte Facial Blotting Paper ($8) is one large continuous roll of blotting paper. You simply tear off a little or a lot depending on how oily you are at that moment. Just press the paper gently over your skin without wiping for a clean, fresh feeling.

New Product Alert: NARS Perfecting Powdered Sheets

BellaSugar — Mon, 21 May 2007 08:11:15 -0700

Just in the nick of time for the hot and humid summertime weather comes the latest launch from NARS Cosmetics. Called Perfecting Powdered Sheets and hitting stores July 1, these blotting sheets are designed to absorb oil and sweat from your face. They help eliminate shine and leave you skin feeling fresh and clean. Each paper contains a light layer of velvety NARS powder that is scented with rosemary - nice!

The powder sheets ($19.50 for 100) come in a thin black plastic case, but what I liked best about them is that they are really big! (I usually need about three of those tiny rose-colored powder papers to do the trick.) It's a perfectly compact solution to keep in your car or your tote for those muggy days ahead.

Bare Escentuals bareMinerals Matte Foundation Sweepstakes Rules

BellaSugar — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 22:00:24 -0700

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. MAKING A PURCHASE DOES NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. This giveaway is sponsored by Sugar Publishing, Inc. (owner and operator of BellaSugar.com), having an address of 111 Sutter Street, 15th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94104.

ELIGIBILITY:  Open only to permanent legal U.S. residents physically residing in the fifty (50) United States of America and the District of Columbia. Employees of Sponsor and its respective parents, affiliates, subsidiaries, and advertising and promotion agencies and any other entity involved in the development or administration of this Contest, and their immediate family members or household members are not eligible to participate in or win the Contest. All prizes won by minors will be awarded to their parents or legal guardians on their behalf. Winners may be required to sign an Affidavit of Eligibility and complete relevant tax forms as a condition to the delivery of the applicable prize. Void where prohibited by law. All applicable federal, state and local laws apply.

HOW TO ENTER:  No purchase is necessary to participate in the Contest. To enter, you must log into your profile at BellaSugar.com or any PopSugar Network site (or register for a profile at http://www.onsugar.com/user/register), navigate to bellasugar.com and take and complete the quiz as described on the entry page between 11:00a.m. on August 23, 2009 and 5p.m. on August 30, 2009 (the “Entry Period”). Entries generated by script, macro or other automated means are void. Normal time, toll, connection and usage rates, if any, charged by your Internet service provider will apply. All entries become the property of the Sponsor.

By registering and taking the quiz, you will be agreeing that your registration and any other information collected in connection with the Contest may be used by Sponsor in accordance with Sugar Publishing, Inc.’s Privacy Policy and may be shared with Sponsor’s affiliated business entities, and that you automatically opt-in to receive email, text messages or other communications from Sponsor. You may subsequently opt-out of the receipt of such email or communications by following the directions in the email, communications or by contacting Sponsor directly.

All registrations must include entrant's valid email address. The email address provided by online entrants will be the identity of the entrant and, if selected for a prize, the identity of the winner. We expressly reserve the right to disqualify any entries that we believe in good faith are generated by an automated program or via scripts. By participating, all entrants agree to abide by these Official Contest Rules.

PRIZES:  At the end of the Entry Period, there will be one (1) drawing in which one (1) potential Grand Prize winner shall be selected from all eligible entries received during the Entry Period by employees or representatives of the Sponsor to receive the Grand Prize of seven (7) Bare Escentuals bareMinerals Matte Foundations (retail value = $196). In no event shall the Sponsor be obligated to award more prizes than the number of prizes stated in these Official Contest Rules. No substitutions (including for cash) are permitted, except that Sponsor reserves the right to substitute a prize of equal or greater monetary value for any prize. All prizes won by minors will be awarded to their parents or legal guardians on their behalf. Winners shall be responsible and liable for all federal, state and local taxes on the value of their prize. To receive a complete list of winners or a copy of the Official Contest Rules, send a self-addressed stamped envelope to Prize Fulfillment, Sugar Inc., 111 Sutter Street, 15th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94104. Specify winner's list or rules on your request.
Please allow 6-8 weeks for prize delivery.

SELECTION : The winning entry will be chosen at random. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. In the event of a dispute regarding the identity of the person submitting the entry, the entry will be deemed to be submitted by the person in whose name the e-mail account is registered. The Contest will be conducted under the supervision of the Sponsor. The decisions of the Sponsor are final and binding in all matters relating to this Contest. The winners will be notified by email and/or by private message through the winner’s teamsugar.com account; Sponsor reserves the right to determine the method of notification. Winners must claim their prize within three (3) business days after the date of notification of such prize. A Contest winner's failure to respond to the prize notification within the specified three (3) business days will be considered such Contest winner's forfeiture of the prize and an alternate winner may be selected from the pool of eligible entries. If an entrant is found to be ineligible, an alternate winner may also be selected from the pool of eligible entries. Sponsor reserves the right to ship prizes directly to the email and/or mailing address provided by winners during their entry to the Contest. Each entry submitted in response to the Contest and in accordance with the rules will constitute an official entry. One entry per person. Duplicate entries will be void. All entrants agree to abide by these Official Contest Rules. All entries become the property of the Sponsor.

General Conditions and Releases: An entrant or winner may be disqualified from the Contest if he or she fails to comply with each provision of these Official Contest Rules, as determined in the sole discretion of the Sponsor. Participation in the Contest is at entrant’s own risk. Sponsor shall not be liable for 1) failed, returned or misdirected notifications based on inaccurate information provided by the winner on the contest entry form, 2) entries and responses to winner notifications which are lost, late, incomplete, illegible, unintelligible, postage-due, misdirected, damaged or otherwise not received by the intended recipient in whole or in part or for computer or technical error of any kind, 3) any electronic miscommunications or failures, technical hardware or software failures of any kind, lost or unavailable network connections, or failed incomplete, garbled or delayed computer transmissions which may limit an entrant's ability to participate in the Contest, 4) any technical malfunctions of the telephone network, computer on-line system, computer equipment, software, program malfunctions or other failures, delayed computer transactions or network connections that are human, mechanical or technical in nature, or any combination thereof, including any injury or damage to entrant's or any other person's computer related to or resulting from downloading any part of this Contest or 5) any warranty of fitness or merchantability of any prize or the function or operation thereof, which shall be the sole responsibility of the manufacturer of the prize. Sponsor does not make any, and hereby disclaim any and all, representations or warranties of any kind regarding any prize. Unless prohibited by applicable law, your entry constitutes your permission to use your name, photograph, likeness, voice, address (city and state) and testimonials in all media, in perpetuity, in any manner Sponsor deems appropriate for publicity purposes without any further compensation to such entrant. By entering or accepting a prize in the Contest, winners agree to be bound by these Official Contest Rules and to conform to all federal, state and local laws and regulations. When applicable, the winner (or, if the winner is a minor, the winner's parent or legal guardian) may be required to execute and return to Sponsor within five (5) business days an Affidavit of Eligibility and a Liability and Publicity Release to be eligible for the prize or an alternate winner will be selected. Winner may be required to furnish proof of identity, address and birth date in order to receive a prize. 

By entering, an entrant agrees to release and hold harmless Sponsor and its respective parents, subsidiaries and affiliated entities, directors, officers, employees, attorneys, agents, and representatives from any damage, injury, death, loss, claim, action, demand, or other liability (collectively, “Claims”) that may arise from their acceptance, possession and/or use of any prize or their participation in this promotion, or from any misuse or malfunction of any prize awarded, regardless of whether such Claims, or knowledge of the facts constituting such Claims, exist at the time of entry or arise at any time thereafter. Any person attempting to defraud or in any way tamper with this Contest will be ineligible for prizes and may be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Sponsor reserves the right to modify these Official Contest Rules in any way or at any time. Sponsor reserves the right, in their sole discretion, to cancel or suspend this Contest should viruses, bugs or other causes beyond their control corrupt the administration, security or proper play of the Contest. In the event of cancellation or suspension, Sugar shall promptly post a notice on the Contest entry page to such effect. This Contest shall be governed by California law. By participating in this contest, entrants agree that California courts shall have jurisdiction over any dispute or litigation arising from or relating to this Contest and that venue shall be only in San Francisco, California.  Please allow 6-8 weeks for prize delivery.