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Product Display

About a month ago, Revlon released a new collection for the Fall/Winter season. The collection has just this week arrived at my local drugstores. Information about the new collection was hard to find, as the product is not yet on the Revlon website. All of the information that I have is based on the product display, personal experience and from other blog posts. The line is called “Ultra HD” although I am not sure why this is. There are 14 colors available and they range from bright spring appropriate colors to deep fall inspired colors. The lipstick colors are named after flowers, which I really enjoy; the colors I purchased are called Primrose, Gladiolus and Iris. This does leave me wondering why the products were not released in the spring. There were also lip lacquers released along with the lipsticks, but for this review, I will focus on the lipsticks.

From left to right: Primrose 835, Gladiolus 875. Iris 850

I purchased my lipsticks for 7.99 at Target, although I have seen them for 9.99 at other drug stores.

The formula of these lipsticks is unique. It is very comparable to the Revlon lip butters, but with better pigmentation. They are extremely soft, smooth and hydrating. As someone that frequently suffers from dry, flaky skin and lips, I found this product to be terrific. I do recommend wearing a lip liner along with the lipsticks as they do have a tendency to feather.

These lipsticks have a pleasant and a very sweet scent. It is rather strong, but I found that it does not linger on the lips after a few minutes.

My least favorite part about the Revlon Ultra HD lipsticks is the packaging. The clear plastic tubes give a very cheap look; this contrasts the beautiful gold tubes that Revlon lipsticks normally come in. They are so extremely messy. After using the lipsticks for a few days the tubes are incredibly scuffed. I had to be extremely careful when placing the tap on in order not to ruin the tube. Most of the time this did not work, and I found myself cleaning the tubes way too often. This is too much of a hassle for a drugstore lipstick.

Color swatches left to right: Primrose, Gladiolus and Iris

As for wear time, it is fairly long lasting. The colors actually leave a light tint on the lips when they begin fading. For a lipstick that is so creamy this is a nice surprise. With a lip liner they can last for a few hours.

Overall, I really do like these lipsticks and would recommend them, to anyone searching for a lip butter or a tinted lip balm product. If you aren’t someone that is turned off by strong scents or the messy packaging, go for it! These are a great buy.

Product Display

About a month ago, Revlon released a new collection for the Fall/Winter season. The collection has just this week arrived at my local drugstores. Information about the new collection was hard to find, as the product is not yet on the Revlon website. All of the information that I have is based on the product display, personal experience and from other blog posts. The line is called “Ultra HD” although I am not sure why this is. There are 14 colors available and they range from bright spring appropriate colors to deep fall inspired colors. The lipstick colors are named after flowers, which I really enjoy; the colors I purchased are called Primrose, Gladiolus and Iris. This does leave me wondering why the products were not released in the spring. There were also lip lacquers released along with the lipsticks, but for this review, I will focus on the lipsticks.

From left to right: Primrose 835, Gladiolus 875. Iris 850

I purchased my lipsticks for 7.99 at Target, although I have seen them for 9.99 at other drug stores.

The formula of these lipsticks is unique. It is very comparable to the Revlon lip butters, but with better pigmentation. They are extremely soft, smooth and hydrating. As someone that frequently suffers from dry, flaky skin and lips, I found this product to be terrific. I do recommend wearing a lip liner along with the lipsticks as they do have a tendency to feather.

These lipsticks have a pleasant and a very sweet scent. It is rather strong, but I found that it does not linger on the lips after a few minutes.

My least favorite part about the Revlon Ultra HD lipsticks is the packaging. The clear plastic tubes give a very cheap look; this contrasts the beautiful gold tubes that Revlon lipsticks normally come in. They are so extremely messy. After using the lipsticks for a few days the tubes are incredibly scuffed. I had to be extremely careful when placing the tap on in order not to ruin the tube. Most of the time this did not work, and I found myself cleaning the tubes way too often. This is too much of a hassle for a drugstore lipstick.

Color swatches left to right: Primrose, Gladiolus and Iris

As for wear time, it is fairly long lasting. The colors actually leave a light tint on the lips when they begin fading. For a lipstick that is so creamy this is a nice surprise. With a lip liner they can last for a few hours.

Overall, I really do like these lipsticks and would recommend them, to anyone searching for a lip butter or a tinted lip balm product. If you aren’t someone that is turned off by strong scents or the messy packaging, go for it! These are a great buy.

Product Display

About a month ago, Revlon released a new collection for the Fall/Winter season. The collection has just this week arrived at my local drugstores. Information about the new collection was hard to find, as the product is not yet on the Revlon website. All of the information that I have is based on the product display, personal experience and from other blog posts. The line is called “Ultra HD” although I am not sure why this is. There are 14 colors available and they range from bright spring appropriate colors to deep fall inspired colors. The lipstick colors are named after flowers, which I really enjoy; the colors I purchased are called Primrose, Gladiolus and Iris. This does leave me wondering why the products were not released in the spring. There were also lip lacquers released along with the lipsticks, but for this review, I will focus on the lipsticks.

From left to right: Primrose 835, Gladiolus 875. Iris 850

I purchased my lipsticks for 7.99 at Target, although I have seen them for 9.99 at other drug stores.

The formula of these lipsticks is unique. It is very comparable to the Revlon lip butters, but with better pigmentation. They are extremely soft, smooth and hydrating. As someone that frequently suffers from dry, flaky skin and lips, I found this product to be terrific. I do recommend wearing a lip liner along with the lipsticks as they do have a tendency to feather.

These lipsticks have a pleasant and a very sweet scent. It is rather strong, but I found that it does not linger on the lips after a few minutes.

My least favorite part about the Revlon Ultra HD lipsticks is the packaging. The clear plastic tubes give a very cheap look; this contrasts the beautiful gold tubes that Revlon lipsticks normally come in. They are so extremely messy. After using the lipsticks for a few days the tubes are incredibly scuffed. I had to be extremely careful when placing the tap on in order not to ruin the tube. Most of the time this did not work, and I found myself cleaning the tubes way too often. This is too much of a hassle for a drugstore lipstick.

Color swatches left to right: Primrose, Gladiolus and Iris

As for wear time, it is fairly long lasting. The colors actually leave a light tint on the lips when they begin fading. For a lipstick that is so creamy this is a nice surprise. With a lip liner they can last for a few hours.

Overall, I really do like these lipsticks and would recommend them, to anyone searching for a lip butter or a tinted lip balm product. If you aren’t someone that is turned off by strong scents or the messy packaging, go for it! These are a great buy.

Our Brooklyn Success of the month is none other than the beautiful Chyna Russell. She is the founder and owner of The Dollhouse beauty bar and Dollhouse Cosmetics. A Brooklyn native who grew up in a single house home in the gritty streets of Bedford-Stuyvesant, Russell is determined to take over the beauty industry.

With determination, passion and a hard work ethic, Russell prides herself on being a person who has faced many adversities and overcoming obstacles. Russell motto is, “if I focus on all the things that could go wrong I would have never been where I am today.”

The Dollhouse beauty bar have been in business for over two years, and have captured the attention of celebrities such as reality stars, Tara Wallace, Yandy Smith, and online personality Blac Chyna and a host of others.  The dollhouse host’s monthly makeup classes that include gift bags with cosmetics from the dollhouse makeup line. The class attendees consists of makeup artists, aspiring makeup artists, and everyday women who just want to learn makeup application techniques. The classes offer beginner and advanced techniques for all levels. Russell also host other events in the neighborhood as a way to give back to her community. It also serves as a venue for private events such as children’s parties and business networking events.

Russell saw a void in the beauty industry and decided to open The Dollhouse and her timing couldn’t have been more precise. The Dollhouse opened right before there was a booming trend of aspiring make-up artist’s. There are no neighboring beauty bars within the vicinity of Russell’s establishment; this is how the successful make-up artist is able to stay on top of her game.  Her products are top quality and her clients says that they are just as good as Mac Cosmetics.

Since opening the dollhouse Russell have gain quite the notoriety on social media. Her instagram ha s over 40k followers who are very loyal to the brand. The dollhouse is not just limited to everyday women who are seeking to have their makeup done or learn makeup techniques but celebrities as well. VH1’s reality stars from the hit reality show Love and Hip Hop both New York and Atlanta have also gravitated towards the popular make-up bar.  Pop singer Elle Varner and up and coming hip-hop artist Nyemiah Supreme have also visited the dollhouse to have their make up done for video and photo shoots. Russell stated, “this is all a dream come true. Who would of thought a young black girl from the hood would reach the attention of so many celebrities when there’s so many celebrity make-up artists in the industry.” Her claim to fame has contributed to her  serving as the key makeup artist for VH1’s Mr. and Mrs. Jones with rapper Jim Jones and the newly hit hip-hop reality show Sisterhood of Hip-Hop.

Dollhouse cosmetics can be brought at http://www.thedollhousecosmetics.com and you can have your make-up done by the talented artist at 421 Marcus Garvey Boulevard, Brooklyn, NY 11233. You can call and schedule an appointment at (718) 450-8062.

Yoli hard at work on a photoshoot.

Yoli Cotray and I met a few years back, when her beau (and one of my closest friends) introduced us at a NYC bar. My immediate reaction as we shook hands was “Wow, this girl has really great eyebrows!” I guess that is something only a girl obsessed with makeup products would think. The thin patchy baby caterpillars that rest on top of my eyes, pale in comparison. I had to know her secret! I wondered if it would it be weird to ask her what eye pencil she used 15 minutes into meeting her. I told myself I would avoid the awkward eyebrow talk for the time being and inquire about the story of how the lovely couple met.

Fast-forward to the day I was assigned to write a blog post. My professor told the class that we must include an interview in our first post. My immediate thought? My chance to ask Yoli how in the world she does it! Yoli and I have known one another for about two years now, and I have yet to see the girl look anything less than air brushed. After a twelve-hour workday and when most women I know look like melting Crayola crayons, she is a woman that appears to have stepped out of a magazine advertisement. She is a woman that has recently exited her twenties, but because of her youthful complexion will still likely be carded for the next couple of years. Yoli works as a makeup artist at NARS cosmetics andhas worked for countless beauty brands. As we sit in an Upper West Side restaurant, we sip our champagne cocktails and she eventually lets me pick her brain:

Yoli’s work on a young model.

As a makeup artist, you spend all day working with clients of all ages. What would you say is the biggest difference between the way you apply makeup on a woman in her forties or fifties and a woman in her twenties? Are there differences in products/colors/application?

“As a makeup artist with 13+ years’ experience in working with clients of all ages, the biggest difference between the makeup application for women of different generations would be the process (ie. The steps taken to achieve the desired end result) due to the tightness of the skin or lack thereof.  For a woman of wisdom, I would “put everything back where it belongs” then dress it up by accentuating her best features.  With a woman in her 20’s, things are usually in place, and at that point, I can just be creative.”

What is one fall beauty trend that all twenty-something girls should try and one that they should avoid?

“One fall beauty trend that I am obsessed with now (for any age!) is a rich shade of brown lipstick.  With the right undertone and formula (sheer, satin, cream, matte, etc.), this can be a very sophisticated and chic look.  Avoid- skipping lip liner!”

Kat Dennings sporting the trend.

In your opinion, what is the biggest mistake twenty-somethings make when applying their makeup?

“In my opinion, one of the biggest mistakes women in their twenties make when applying their makeup is not properly prepping the skin with skin care.  A great eye cream, face serum and moisturizer can go a long way in what I like to refer to as the “preventative years”.  It can also improve the overall look and wear of a makeup application.”

Yoli’s work on a young model.

If you could go back and tell your twenty one year old self one thing related to beauty, what would it be?

“If I could go back in time, I would tell my twenty one year old self”only allow a professional to groom your brows’.  I specialize in eyebrows now, but back then… next question.”

Yoli’s work on a “Pretty Woman” photoshoot.

What do you believe is the number one product all women in her twenties should own?

“I cannot emphasize this enough, EYE CREAM!!!  And not only should they own it, they should commit to using it day and night.  How else would we remain Forever 21?”

Yoli working on a bride.

Describe the perfect office beauty look for a woman in her twenties.

“One of my favorite work appropriate makeup looks for young professionals begins with a polished complexion.  A foundation/concealer with the proper level of coverage can camouflage imperfections. Next, find a blush that would mimic an actual pinch to the cheek, this will bring a healthy glow back to the skin.  Deep Gray or Dark Brown eyeliner to *thinly* define eyes- this can distract from any puffiness around the eyes (no one needs to know when you have been up late!) Mascara is a must, and a matte rosy toned lipstick can complete the office look.  There is something about the finish and color that says RESPECT ME, respectfully.”

Describe the perfect date night look for a woman in her twenties.

“One of the easiest (and flirtiest!) date looks for a woman in her twenties is a traditional Cat Eye styled liner.  This look can be used with a bold lip color for those who dare, or something softer for a casual finish.  Whether pencil, liquid, or gel, make sure the eyeliner is long wearing just in case it ends up being a long night!”

I leave the interview, and immediately feel an urge to step into Sephora. My new shopping list includes a dark brown lip color with matching pencil. (So 90’s!), an eye cream and a black eyeliner to create a cat eye. Now, if she would only come over every time I needed a cat eye. Ah! Blog post idea. The perfect cat eye, by Yoli Cotray. Who wants to see that next?

Yoli hard at work on a photoshoot.

Yoli Cotray and I met a few years back, when her beau (and one of my closest friends) introduced us at a NYC bar. My immediate reaction as we shook hands was “Wow, this girl has really great eyebrows!” I guess that is something only a girl obsessed with makeup products would think. The thin patchy baby caterpillars that rest on top of my eyes, pale in comparison. I had to know her secret! I wondered if it would it be weird to ask her what eye pencil she used 15 minutes into meeting her. I told myself I would avoid the awkward eyebrow talk for the time being and inquire about the story of how the lovely couple met.

Fast-forward to the day I was assigned to write a blog post. My professor told the class that we must include an interview in our first post. My immediate thought? My chance to ask Yoli how in the world she does it! Yoli and I have known one another for about two years now, and I have yet to see the girl look anything less than air brushed. After a twelve-hour workday and when most women I know look like melting Crayola crayons, she is a woman that appears to have stepped out of a magazine advertisement. She is a woman that has recently exited her twenties, but because of her youthful complexion will still likely be carded for the next couple of years. Yoli works as a makeup artist at NARS cosmetics andhas worked for countless beauty brands. As we sit in an Upper West Side restaurant, we sip our champagne cocktails and she eventually lets me pick her brain:

Yoli’s work on a young model.

As a makeup artist, you spend all day working with clients of all ages. What would you say is the biggest difference between the way you apply makeup on a woman in her forties or fifties and a woman in her twenties? Are there differences in products/colors/application?

“As a makeup artist with 13+ years’ experience in working with clients of all ages, the biggest difference between the makeup application for women of different generations would be the process (ie. The steps taken to achieve the desired end result) due to the tightness of the skin or lack thereof.  For a woman of wisdom, I would “put everything back where it belongs” then dress it up by accentuating her best features.  With a woman in her 20’s, things are usually in place, and at that point, I can just be creative.”

What is one fall beauty trend that all twenty-something girls should try and one that they should avoid?

“One fall beauty trend that I am obsessed with now (for any age!) is a rich shade of brown lipstick.  With the right undertone and formula (sheer, satin, cream, matte, etc.), this can be a very sophisticated and chic look.  Avoid- skipping lip liner!”

Kat Dennings sporting the trend.

In your opinion, what is the biggest mistake twenty-somethings make when applying their makeup?

“In my opinion, one of the biggest mistakes women in their twenties make when applying their makeup is not properly prepping the skin with skin care.  A great eye cream, face serum and moisturizer can go a long way in what I like to refer to as the “preventative years”.  It can also improve the overall look and wear of a makeup application.”

Yoli’s work on a young model.

If you could go back and tell your twenty one year old self one thing related to beauty, what would it be?

“If I could go back in time, I would tell my twenty one year old self”only allow a professional to groom your brows’.  I specialize in eyebrows now, but back then… next question.”

Yoli’s work on a “Pretty Woman” photoshoot.

What do you believe is the number one product all women in her twenties should own?

“I cannot emphasize this enough, EYE CREAM!!!  And not only should they own it, they should commit to using it day and night.  How else would we remain Forever 21?”

Yoli working on a bride.

Describe the perfect office beauty look for a woman in her twenties.

“One of my favorite work appropriate makeup looks for young professionals begins with a polished complexion.  A foundation/concealer with the proper level of coverage can camouflage imperfections. Next, find a blush that would mimic an actual pinch to the cheek, this will bring a healthy glow back to the skin.  Deep Gray or Dark Brown eyeliner to *thinly* define eyes- this can distract from any puffiness around the eyes (no one needs to know when you have been up late!) Mascara is a must, and a matte rosy toned lipstick can complete the office look.  There is something about the finish and color that says RESPECT ME, respectfully.”

Describe the perfect date night look for a woman in her twenties.

“One of the easiest (and flirtiest!) date looks for a woman in her twenties is a traditional Cat Eye styled liner.  This look can be used with a bold lip color for those who dare, or something softer for a casual finish.  Whether pencil, liquid, or gel, make sure the eyeliner is long wearing just in case it ends up being a long night!”

I leave the interview, and immediately feel an urge to step into Sephora. My new shopping list includes a dark brown lip color with matching pencil. (So 90’s!), an eye cream and a black eyeliner to create a cat eye. Now, if she would only come over every time I needed a cat eye. Ah! Blog post idea. The perfect cat eye, by Yoli Cotray. Who wants to see that next?