Glam Glow Dream Duo Overnight Transforming Treatment

Glam Glow is practically notorious at this point. Their line of prestigious skincare is a luxury beauty lovers lust for! Once you glance at the price tag, you'll wonder if it is really worth all those hard earned dollars. 

I myself was a skeptic. After nearly finishing this jar of Glam Glow Dream Duo, I'm sorry to tell you that, yes, you will be eating simply to make up from this indulgent purchase. This overnight skin treatment is worth. EVERY. DAMN. PENNY. 

Dream Duo is a two-step system that takes your beauty sleep to the next level. You start with the pearlescent DREAMSERUM and let it soak into your skin for just under a minute. Then follow up with the DREAMSEAL which is the soft gray cream. Tuck yourself in bed and be ready for a morning to remember. 

The mask doesn't have a sticky uncomfortable feeling like some overnight treatments. You won't even realize that you have anything on your face. Each time I used this mask, I woke to an alluring complexion. And the results lasted 2-3 days. 

The instructions advise us to use this as a nightly treatment. When trying new skin care, it is always best to listen to your skin and maybe break some rules. I have pretty normal skin. Using this mask more than twice a week was just too much for my skin. I would get a pimple. This mask is nourishingly rich. Respond to your skin care needs. 

2 sexy steps, 1 sexy dream team. #DREAMDUO #HELLOSEXY #GLAMGLOW #SkinGoals #TrendingAtSephora @sephora

2,185 Likes, 18 Comments - GLAMGLOW (@glamglow) on Instagram: "2 sexy steps, 1 sexy dream team. #DREAMDUO #HELLOSEXY #GLAMGLOW #SkinGoals #TrendingAtSephora..."

And makeup! GIRL. BOY. Your makeup application after using this mask has never been so easy. Flawless makeup comes down to your skin care (and maybe Facetune). Your skin looks so good after this mask, you can forgo full coverage foundation and just use a tinted moisturizer. You won't want to cover your beautifully hydrated skin. 

I've got my eye on the newest edition to the Glam Glow line: Glow Setter. A setting spray that promises "a hydrating, refreshing setting mist that perfects and finishes makeup, energizes skin, and boosts radiance for an instant, sexy Hollywood glow." #ShutUpAndTakeMyMoney!

Treat yourself: Keep one bottle of #GLOWSETTER in your bag, then keep 3 backups in your fridge for glow emergencies. ✨ #GLAMGLOW

4,679 Likes, 37 Comments - GLAMGLOW (@glamglow) on Instagram: "Treat yourself: Keep one bottle of #GLOWSETTER in your bag, then keep 3 backups in your fridge for..."

What is your nightly skin care routine?

More Skin Care on Meetpepperb.com

Review on Glam Glow Supermud Clearing Treatment By Ada H.

Photo from Sephora.com

Affordable Alternative: Boscia's Charcoal Pore-Minimizing Hydrogel Mask

Available at Sephora; $59

Photos from GLAMGLOW's IG are indicated as such. 

All other photos are property of meetpepperb.com

Too Faced Sketch Marker Liquid Art Eyeliner

Ah, Too Faced. I'm always excited to see their new product launches. Each product is designed to empower women through femininity and just be fun to play with. Femininity is often held with disdain but Too Faced reminds women it is ok to want to feel and look feminine. And I just love that! With each product launch from Too Faced, there are copious amounts of buzz. Beauty lovers and loyal customers run to their favorite store to buy something from their favorite brand before it sells out. Which it will. Their oh-so-cute-packaging is hella Instagram worthy. Think of how many Peach Palettes and Sweetheart Blushes you've seen delicately posed on a white faux-fur rug. 900? Yeah, me too. Because of this, it is so frustrating when Too Faced releases a product that doesn't meet a consumer's expectations of Too Faced's more-often-than-not high-quality products. They need to recall these Sketch Markers.  

As always, the packaging from Too Faced is just darling. But they cannot rely on cuteness when a product does not perform. Give me a boring package over a low-quality product any day. Being pretty to look at does not replace the money that's been wasted. Almost every claim made about the Sketch Markers were nowhere to be found. Once I got past the charm of the precious heart on the cap of the Sketch Marker, I was met with frustration and disappointment. 

How eager I was to try these brightly colored Sketch Markers. I was excited to see a brand include pastels in the form of a liquid liner. Oh man, have I even told you what the product is? I've just been wrapped up in my feelings. The Sketch Markers are vibrant felt-tipped liquid eyeliners. A bright yellow and even a white liquid eyeliner! This photo from the brand's Instagram shows the range of colors. 

Color your world with our Sketch Marker Liquid Art Liners. #tfsketchmarker #toofaced

91.5k Likes, 398 Comments - Too Faced Cosmetics (@toofaced) on Instagram: "Color your world with our Sketch Marker Liquid Art Liners. #tfsketchmarker #toofaced"

The shades I have are Steel Blue and Candy Pink. Both shades performed exactly the same in all aspects. So at least there was consistency. The felt-tip of these liquid eyeliners is nice and stiff. The formula flows easily and evenly through the pen. Liquid eyeliner goals, right? *Sad Face* Unfortunately, the felt-tip starts to pill after just about 4 or 5 uses. As I slid the liner across my eyelid, I saw little balls of felt where a smooth line of color should have been. There was also a string that was now attached to the tip of the tip. That's easy to remove. The little balls of felt on the eye, not so much. 

I was pleasantly surprised by the pigmentation of these liners. Paler shades aren't known for being super easy to work with. But each swatch below was made with one stroke. That was about the only redeeming quality these eyeliners had. With that kind I pigmentation, I would've move past the pilling. Honestly, it's not the worst thing, just kind of annoying and time consuming to remove the little balls of felt.

The trouble began when I realized the formula of the Sketch Marker wasn't everything Too Faced claimed it would be. Don't make promises you can't keep. "Its waterproof formula will not fade or feather" -just stop. Feather, fade, and vanish with a hint of water is what this liner did. We've been building this relationship for nearly a year now, so I hope that I've given you all a reason to trust me. Steel Blue was fully set when I dabbed my finger in a bit of water rubbed it across the center of the liner. You see that it is gone. Candy Pink was also fully set when I rubbed a dry finger over the center. It crumbled. Exactly what these liners have done on my hand is was happened on my eye. When they were on my eyelid, they would also melt and collect in my tear duct. UGH! Gross! They would crease and crack. I know, I know, they may work for other people. They did not work out for me.

There was a moment of redemption, however. I found that the formula works nicely if you use them to make little dots. I liked mixing the pink in with the Urban Decay Heavy Metal Glitter Liner in Junkshow. It added something different to the look.

Even though I was totally disappointed with these liners, I am still looking forward to my favorite primer expanding! Too Faced has made a setting spray of the instant classic Hangover RX Primer! I can't wait! I'll just be over here gazing at this picture from their IG until the setting spray launches this June. K, Bye. 

Prime, set and refresh with our Hangover 3-in-1 Replenishing Primer & Setting Spray. Available on toofaced.com June 2017. #tfhangover #toofaced

64.5k Likes, 488 Comments - Too Faced Cosmetics (@toofaced) on Instagram: "Prime, set and refresh with our Hangover 3-in-1 Replenishing Primer & Setting Spray. Available on..."

Now Go Read My Review On The

Too Faced Melted Matte Liquefied Lipstick

What liquid liners are your go to?

Available at Sephora; $20

Photo from Too Faced's IG are indicated as such. 

All other photos are property of meetpepperb.com

Becca Backlight Priming Filter Review

Written by Myrna. R

So Spring has finally Sprung! And with that being said where do I begin to describe this little gem from Becca Cosmetics called the First Light Priming Filter. This primer was launched on the heels of the brand's cult favorite Backlight Priming Filter which I so affectionately like to call the Beyonce to First Light's Solange!:)  Now the key point of difference with this unique formula is that it definitely encompasses a Spring "Awakening" factor in a bottle.  Lets start with its awesome cool violet tint which serves to softly scatter light imparting an Oh so subtle radiance and hydration to boot!  It's key ingredients come in the form of prickly pear to trap moisture in the skin, along with cooling citrus and ginger to really give fatigued dehydrated skin an energizing pick-me-up.  Becca also came up with a cutesy hashtag which all women(& men) alike can relate to: #BECCAFixesBadFaceDay and boy do we know we can all fall victim to bad skin blues!  BECCA to the rescue with this incredible primer!
 

Ren Instant Brightening Beauty Shot Eye lift

Written by Deanna P 

I am endlessly looking for the fountain of youth.  As you age, unfortunately your skin does not stay as taut & firm as it did in your younger days.  My eyes have been one of the first things to go.  My lids are getting droopy & I do look tired more often than not.  

I recently got the opportunity to try Ren Clean Skincare Keep Young And Beautiful Instant Brightening Beauty Shot Eye Lift.  It comes in 15 mland retails for $45.00.  It can be used on all skin types every day.  RENlaunched in 2000 & hasbecome a cult favorite amongst consumers & beauty editors ( i will jump on thatbandwagon).  You can find itin department stores, pharmacies and spas in over 50 countries around the world. Ren is the Swedish word for Clean.  The concept of the company is making products with no nasty ingredients.   The three main things they focus on are Performance, Purity & Pleasure.    Performance is important to the company.  Their products go through rigorous testing & they demand proven results.  Purity in that Ren uses 100% plant & mineralbased ingredients.  They do not use anything synthetic.  They believe that when the consumer uses their product, the texture, fragrance & overall experience will make a person happy!  

Clean innovation is their overall focus!  

Rarely do I find a product that I put on & I feel like it immediately works.   This might have changed when I tried Ren’s Instant Shot Eye lift.  Instant was definitely TRUE.  The truth be told, I felt my eyes instantly lifted & looked better as soon as I applied it.  I have been using it for a few days & I am definitely adding it to my arsenal of products.  My eyesdefinitely looked younger & my fine lines were diminishing,  Rarely do you find something that works this well that has natural ingredients.  I appreciate natural more & more these days as some of the ingredients in some products cause more damage than they fix. I do feel the product from what I have seen so far is worth the $45.00.  There are not a lot of products that you get instant gratification & Rests Eye lift is one of them.  I rather buy one good product instead of 20 bad ones.  

To purchase this productat Sephora or direct from REN:

http://www.sephora.com or renskincare.com

Ouai Haircare Soft Mousse Review

Written by Deanna P

I recently read an article that spoke very highly of Ouai haircare.  I was super excited when I received the soft mousse to try.  I first noticed the sleekpackaging.  It put off a simple elegant vibe that I really liked.  

The Mousse size is net wt 6.7 oz /190 g & retails for $28.00.  

Ouai was created in 2016by renowned celebrity hair stylist Jen Atkin.  Jen’s career started in Hollywood where she has worked with the Kardashians, Jessica Alba, & Christy Teigen to name a few.   Her career has done phenomenally & she charges $1100 for a haircut & blow dry. After traveling the globe she wanted to start a hair care brand that spoke to the the real woman.  Something that everyone could relate to.  We as consumers have so much to choose from that it is hard to navigate all that there is out there.  Jen Atkin’s goal was to make something modern, that provided effortless style everyday.   Jen says,  “Life is hard, looking good should be easy” Oauimeans yes in a casual Parisian way.  The company’s tag line:Say YES to Real Hair for Real Life.   #sayOuai

Ouai has made mousse cool again!  The mousse makes hair fuller & bouncier.  It is a non sticky mousse, that smell terrific & volumes your hair beautifully.  There is no animal testing & it is paraben free.  It also won Redbook’s best new product as the best volumizer.  The mousse can be used in damp or dry hair.  Work it in into hair to calm frizz or boost the volume. I used it for a few days.  Two of the days I put it in my damp hair & let it dry naturally.  When I had used mousse in the past, my hair was sticky & crunchy.  This mousse made my hair look soft & beautiful.  I loved the texture.  The third day, I blew it out & it also looked great.  Soft, beautiful smooth locks. I definitely would use this mousse on an everyday basis.  I feel it is definitely a good value for the price.  A lot of mousse is inexpensive, but it absolutely does not work as well.  

I can’t wait to try other products by this brand.  

You can purchase products at: 

 theouai.com or sephora.com

The Lip Bar Liquid Matte Lipstick in "Man Eater"

By: Amanda V.

This shade of nude is not at all average. This magical mauve-y nude is filled with badassery that's perfect paired with a leather jacket and a smokey eye or even for those who go minimal with their makeup looks, because the cool mauve tone in this universally flattering nude lipstick looks fantastic without making it look like you're a corpse or even worse like you've eaten powdered donuts (which most nudes without liner can make you look). You can use multiple liner combos with this lipstick I loves pairing it with Mac "Stripdown" and "Cork". What I found that I love about this lipstick is the formula, it never felt flakey or dry or thick. It's thin in texture, glides on a bit watery (which I found to be good) while still being opaque in color. 2 coats are perfect. Literally as comfortable as sliding on a silky slip dress. The packaging itself is pretty cool with the black caged applicator. Once dried after applying, you are good to go for hours (eating, drinking... multiple tacos... you're good!). The staying power is real! The lip bar is a more affordable liquid lipstick at just $13 (TheLipBar.com) with the quality of a high end product which is a complete steal! Give it a go and be ready to stomp on a guy's heart with your boots and kick ass for the rest of the day. 

Swatch without flash.

Swatch with flash.

And for all my lovers of furry friends... this brand is VEGAN & Cruelty Free!!

Straight Blow Dry by Bumble and Bumble

My hair type is frizz. I have mostly wavy, kinda curly hair. It's not super thick, so it is pretty easy to manipulate. But if I want to blow dry my hair myself, I know that it will look frizzy the first day until it settles down. That's just how it's always been. I never thought there was a product that would make my hair salon straight. I should've known that Bumble and Bumble would have exactly what I needed. Striaght Blow Dry will give you a hairstylist level blow dry.

I am a Bumble and Bumble fangirl. I came across the brand while browsing through Sephora irl a few years ago. Their signature product, Surf Spray, is what caught my attention. I've been in love ever since. Every. Single. Product. I try from Bumble and Bumble has made my hair look marvelous. There is some sort of magic in their products that make your hair look effortlessly stylish. All I need them to do now is make the scent of their Surf Spray into a fragrance. I love it! I won't lie to you, Bumble and Bumble products are a bit pricey. But they really are worth every penny!

They have a few versions of their blow dry cream. Straight Blow Dry will give the frizziest, curliest hair a fighting chance against the blow dryer and humidity. The first step is hair prep. While my hair is still wet from the shower, I split my hair in half vertically. Then I apply a dollop of the creme to each half my hair. Starting from the middle of my hair shaft, I massage the product into my hair to my ends. I never directly apply smoothing type products near my roots because I don't ever want my hair flat to my head. I like volume. Big hair is always my hair goals. The cream spreads very easily through your hair.  Once it is off my hands, I run a brush through my hair to make sure I didn't miss anything. With the remnants of cream that remain on the brush, I will run the brush over my roots to help ensure they don't frizz up but aren't flat. The fragrance is very soft and I don't smell it on my hair after it's been dried, but I wouldn't mind if it did. 

Whatever your hair type we got the Blow Dry balm for you. @mylaanddavis ask your #BbNetworkSalon about which is right for you. Thanks @mylaanddavis we know you guys have mad Blow Dry skills.

680 Likes, 11 Comments - Bumble and bumble. (@bumbleandbumble) on Instagram: "Whatever your hair type we got the Blow Dry balm for you. @mylaanddavis ask your #BbNetworkSalon..."

I am so extra. I use a ton of different brushes when I style my hair. The large round styling brush is a roots only essential tool to create the volume I like. The double clamp straightening brush makes my blow dry almost flat iron straight. The brand of my blow dryer doesn't matter, I just wanted to show the one I was using. What is MAJOR KEY is the nozzle that makes the air easy to control.

After prepping, it's time to get your blow dryer ready. For the perfectly straight blow dry, there are a few key steps if your have frizzy hair. Sectioning off your hair is not an option, it's a lifeline. I usually do 3 sections horizontally: just below the ear, just above the ear, finishing from crown to hairline. On each section, I use a wide, paddle brush to get most of the moisture off of my hair. Then I use the double clamp straightening brush to smooth my hair. If you like volume, use a large round styling brush to lift your roots. Always, always, always, point the air from the blow dryer down and at an angle that is nearly parallel to your hair. It will smooth the hair shaft and keep the frizz at bay.

wide paddle brush

Double Clamp Straightening brush

Another brush that will save you from a frizzy blow dry is this brush from Brush Lab called Bang Control which I picked up from UIta about three years ago. Because this brush has a metal core,  the heat from the blow dryer gets absorbed into the metal. It allows you to smooth you hair. I don't have bangs any more, but this brush is perfect to smooth out my ends. I can also use it to shape any layers sections of my hair. Note: If you have bangs, you need this brush. It will change everything!

And viola! Straight hair! Using the Straight Blow Dry from Bumble and Bumble also makes all my efforts to get straight hair worth it because it makes my blow dry last longer. 

I've also used the Straight Blow Dry from Bumble and Bumble to on my natural hair without blow drying it. I don't blow dry my hair all the time. More often than not, I wash my hair, throw on some oil, and throw it into some sort of braid. While my hair is still wet, I apply just a quarter size amount of the Straight Blow Dry cream to my hair and let my hair dry naturally. It acts somewhat similarly to a leave in conditioner. My hair dries to its natural texture but it isn't as frizzy. If my hair is already dry, I can still use this product. I wet my hands, apply the cream and brush out my hair to get it back to a manageable state. I do not apply this cream to dry hair because it will not move. You will end up with just glob of moisture in one part of your hair. You need to add water to make it glide. This product also helps with detangling my hair. 

Here are a few of my favorite products from Bumble and Bumble that you need to try just once! You'll be hooked! They have a couple of salons in NYC and I hope to get my hair done there just once as an over indulgence. I am so high maintenice. If you hadn't already guessed!

Surf Spray

Hairdresser's Invisible Oil: Balm to Oil Pre Shampoo Masque

Thickening Dryspun Finish

Pret a Powder

Available at Sephora; $16-$32

Product photos from Sephora.com

Instagram photo is from @bumbleandbumble

All other photos are property of Meetpepperb.com

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More Hair on Meetpepperb.com!

Review on Straight Shampoo and Conditioner from contributor Deanna P.

More affordable product to tackle frizz. Review on Smooth N Shine Hair Polisher 

Apartment Violet Collection

In the pursuit of our dreams, we can forget to slow down and practice some self-care. I can find myself getting so wrapped up in my work that 5 hours flies by and I haven't taken a single break. Being driven is wonderful, but there is nothing wrong with taking time for yourself. Or so I try to remind myself. As a woman in my mid-20s, I often feel so much pressure to 'make it happen.' I know you can feel that way too! So when I am practicing self care, I do the things in life that make me feel at ease. I make myself a delicious breakfast. I take an entire morning to do my makeup. I treat myself to an at home spa get away That is where these beautiful, handcrafted products from Apartment Violet come in.

For your self-care spa get away, turn down your lights, and light this Elysian Fields Soy Candle from Apartment Violet. I have to be honest, my sense of smell is not very sophisticated. If you blind folded me and asked me to 'name that scent,' I'd probably say vanilla? 3 out of 5 times. This vivid purple candle smells soft and sweet and maybe a little like a sweet red wine. Just a few minutes of burning and the scent fills the room without drowning your senses. 

Next up we have an instant essential skincare, hair care, everything care product! The Everything Balm. Now this scent I know! It has a strong tea tree smell (or is it eucalyptus?) IDK, man, my nose knows nada. I do know that I love this smell. The scent is strong but as the products melts like butter into your skin, the scent settles and isn't so potent. I will be honest, I did not try the everything balm on my hair because the coloring products I use are super sensitive. I would have only used it on my ends anyway and I really didn't want to make my hair color looking patchy. It's purple so it's cute but patchy purple hair will look insane. But! Fear not, I was able to use it. The everything balm is perfect to cure any dry or cracked skin. It will heal those winter heels and soothe any dry acne patches you may have. I once wrote that I can't stand seeing crusty elbows and knees. It's still true! I love to rub this on to those places that are prone to dryness. It worked well to hydrate and bring life back to my cuticles. On my lips, tho -heaven! It sinks in and my lips look like they've never been deprived of water. If you had to pick one thing to get, I would suggest the Everything Balm because it's Errthang. (yes i did)

The difference between a mega company and a small business is the love that is so obvious in each package. Soap poured by hand, wrapped and stamped by hand. The attention and passion a person has for their business is apparent when you see a charming double heart stamp on the the rope that holds the package together. Inside there is a cute purple soap. I'm more of a liquid soap kind of person. But this bar soap was great to keep by the sink to keep my hands clean. While I don't feel that the bar soap added moisture to my hands, I don't feel that it stripped any away either. So while the Everything Balm is luxury, the soap is pure function. Which is nice. 

Here are a few grabs from Apartment Violet's (@aptviolet) IG feed. I know you recognize the signature manicure of Ms. Pepper B. herself holding their package. The artwork of the candle is so unique and beautiful. 

Sangria. Watermelon. Peaches. Scented Soy Candle Doodle . . . . . . #aptviolet #aptvioletnyc #soycandle #delicious #scentedcandle #smellslikesummer #sangria #watermelon #peach #sundays #yournewobsession #newandimproved #colorful #live #atmosphere #warmth #glow #candle

20 Likes, 5 Comments - Apartment Violet (@aptviolet) on Instagram: "Sangria. Watermelon. Peaches. Scented Soy Candle Doodle . . . . . . #aptviolet #aptvioletnyc..."

I am a strong woman, secure in my strengths. Bold in my ambition. Honoring my femininity. Inspired by the world. A very special shoutout to @downtownpepper for the support and providing further inspiration to keep doing what we truly love to do! Check out this beauty mavens page and blog for beauty inspiration and tips over at meetpepperb.com 👈🏼💅💋

69 Likes, 9 Comments - Apartment Violet (@aptviolet) on Instagram: "I am a strong woman, secure in my strengths. Bold in my ambition. Honoring my femininity. Inspired..."

Vend n Mix event from @plumpcreative check us out at #Rustiktavern #brooklyn special promo prices available at my booth!

41 Likes, 2 Comments - Apartment Violet (@aptviolet) on Instagram: "Vend n Mix event from @plumpcreative check us out at #Rustiktavern #brooklyn special promo prices..."

Remember to practice self care this month. Detach from social media, turn down the lights, light a candle and throw on a sheet mask. Take a moment. You deserve it!

The Lip Bar Liquid Matte Lipstick in Bawse Lady

Written by Danyelle V

“I started making lipstick in my kitchen because I believed beauty shouldn't compromise health and because I was determined to not change the way I looked to fit into some superficial or trendy beauty standard. Fuck that. There is no standard… Every woman deserves to be represented. So I do this not for the love of makeup, but for the love of women who are unapologetically themselves and the women working up the courage to be.” –Melissa Butler, Founder of The Lip Bar

There is so much girl power and #blackgirlmagic behind the creation of The Lip Bar and it is simply inspiring. A company started by a woman of color in her kitchen to challenge the beauty industry with the goal of empowering women. My heart swelled with love and pride when I learned about the story behind The Lip Bar. I know I’m not the only geek out here reading a brand’s “About the Brand” or “Behind Our Story” sections on their websites, right? Just take 5 minutes to check out their website and instagram feed, and you will feel all of the passion behind this brand. The imagery is stunning! Each collection is so well thought out and executed. It is obvious that love and fire is what created the brand. I'm just a tad obsessed LOL. Just a tad. 

The Lip Bar Lookbook

The Lip Bar Lookbook

I will get to the review of the Liquid Matte Lipstick shortly. First, I just need you all to understand that this isn't just a cosmetic company. It is VIBES with a Z, I swear! One of the most innovative features on their website is the Try On section. I believe that cosmetic companies are starting to understand that we increasingly-socially-conscious-millennials value inclusion. Therefore, featuring swatches on various skin tones has become more common on cosmetic websites. But The Lip Bar goes to the next level. Often I find that, for example, lipsticks are swatched on 2-3 skin tones. The Lip Bar gives us SIX! Oh yeah, they also have the option of swatching the lipstick with soft-natural make up or dramatic makeup. They've thought of everything!

The formula of the matte liquid lipstick is like silk. It is thin but not runny which makes it easy to control. You can get a fully opaque and even layer in one coat. Until it fully dries, it is a little sticky but that does go away after a few minutes. It does not transfer, but it will break down while eating.

The shade I am wearing is Bawse Lady. This. Color. OMG. I need eight of them. Ms. Melissa, listen, please do not ever, evah, discontinue this shade. This is the bloodiest red I have ever owned. This is that January 20th shade. It’s the shade you wear to your Inauguration day. This is the shade you wear when you are inducted into a hall of fame. Bawse Lady is the shade you wear to that meeting with your boss to show him who is the Bawse. World domination is possible with this shade. That “Don’t test me” shade. Can you tell I’m obsessed? I half wish my hair wasn’t purple so I could wear this shade with my hair down. I have a shadow root so I can pull it off with my hair up. Trust me, purple hair and red lipstick will take me from CEO to court jester real quick. I wear Bawse Lady and I feel like I can command an empire!

Here are some of my favorite pictures from their instagram. The Lip Bar and the message behind it will give you such a powerful  urge to create something of your own. It inspires you to chase and develop your own sense of style. You can really feel the voice of this brand. No questions, they will tell you who they are!

You're gorgeous, you're amazing, you're EVERYTHING! This gold metallic lippie gives me the best reminders! Go get you some babes!

303 Likes, 7 Comments - @thelipbar on Instagram: "You're gorgeous, you're amazing, you're EVERYTHING! This gold metallic lippie gives me the best..."

Up close and personal on our beautiful model @hannahdo_! She's rocking our bad ass new lippie, Rebel! 😍 Have you gotten yours yet? We're almost sold out!

160 Likes, 5 Comments - @thelipbar on Instagram: "Up close and personal on our beautiful model @hannahdo_! She's rocking our bad ass new lippie,..."

She'll never love you like she loves her lipstick. Didn't she tell you that she was a SAVAGE?!

394 Likes, 3 Comments - @thelipbar on Instagram: "She'll never love you like she loves her lipstick. Didn't she tell you that she was a SAVAGE?!"

Friday nights are for wine and purple lips! Let loose tonight in the Purple Rain ☔️

292 Likes, 8 Comments - @thelipbar on Instagram: "Friday nights are for wine and purple lips! Let loose tonight in the Purple Rain ☔️"

This video is from their YouTube page. They aren't super active on it but this video captures their whole vibe so well. It's fun, sexy, confident. These lipsticks are very high quality and very affordable. While they are a small business, I honestly believe retailers will pick them up soon and you will see them everywhere! So get ahead of the trend!

So which shade are you picking up before you start your empire?

We have an interview with Melissa Butler, founder and CEO of The Lip Bar! She is insightful and her words, like her brand, will inspire you to chase your own dreams. Read the full interview here.

Ferulic + Retinol Brightening Solution Review

Written by Deanna P

I am always super excited to try a Dr. Dennis Gross product.   A couple of weeks ago, I received his ferric acid + retinol brightening solution to review.  Right on the box it promises to firm, smooth, & tighten.  These are all things I can definitely use to happen to my face. For those of you who don’t know who Dr. Gross is I found out he is a well known NYC dermatologist who specializes in cosmetic dermatology.  After years of treating clients & an elite group of famous clients, Dr. Gross created a product line that everyone could use in the comfort of their own homes.   His research has been included in Medical journals.  He also is a Board member to the Skin Care Foundation & a collaborating member of the American Cancer Center as well as being involved in a host of other noble organizations.  He is a frequent guest on the Dr. Oz Show, The Today Show, The Doctors, CBS, The Early Show, & CNN.  His resume also includes being mentioned in every major magazine including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, and The NY Times Magazine.  In summary, Dr Dennis Gross appears to be the Superman of Dermatology & his product line gets rave reviews.  The ferric acid came in 1 oz/30 mL & retailed for $110.00.   It can be used on almost all skin types which include normal, oily, combination, dry, & sensitive

Two of the main ingredients that are in the title of the product are the key to making this product work so well The first one Ferulic Acid.  This provides sun damage protection; plant-based antioxidant that enhances properties of other vitamins for healthy-looking skin.   The other one Retinol will help smooth visible wrinkles and lines while increasing moisture and elasticity. The third one licorice root extract will help Lighten and act as an anti-inflammatory. To use you can put it on in the am & pm.  Apply all over a clean dry face.  It is recommended that you put a moisturizer from Dr. Dennis’s line over it.As most of his products, this product also does not contain sulfates, parabens, & phthalates along with it being vegan & cruelty-free.  I have used this product for the last 2 weeks & it really comes through with what it promises.   My skin appears firmer, smoother & tighter.  I also thought it looked noticeably brighter.   The price tag on it is a lot & I think it is very expensive.  I do think it will be worth it if I can shave five years off my looks & do it without invasive surgery.    Surgery as we know can begin in the thousands, so the hundreds does not seem so bad if you can accomplish the same results.   

This would be a great product to try a sample of & then buy if it works on your skin.

Check out Dr. Dennis’s website here:

http://drdennisgross.com

Nars Make-up Removing Water

Written by Ada H 

I just wrote a review on the NARS matte lipstick in VIP Red. Just a recap, it wasn’t that great. That hurt my perception of NARS to be honest. I was sad. After using their water based makeup remover though, I was happy again! I’m a very simple girl really. You make good products and I’m happy. You make bad products and I’m sad. See? Simple.

I use oil based makeup remover. Why you ask? Oh, you know, BECAUSE I DIDN’T KNOW WATER BASED EXISTED. 

This changed my world. It’s the little things. Oil based makeup remover is so messy. Taking off eye makeup just leads to more of a greasy mess that’s already been accumulating all day with your natural oils sitting on your face. Then you’re smudging around this black mess and you just look plain scary. 

NARS Makeup Removing Water comes in a big 6.7 fl oz. bottle and you use it just like any other makeup remover. Dump some on a cotton ball and go to town. Except this really feels like you’re cleaning your face instead of just rubbing around oils all around your face making you look like a freak of a clown. 

I will be a fan forever. Oh and ironically, I used this to take off all of their sad lipstick. So happiness will always trump sadness. Bam. That’s deep.

Nars VIP Red Lipstick Review

Written by Ada H 

I have to admit, I’m a little disappointed. NARS has that name and reputation where if you have the product then you know it’s great quality makeup with that sleek design in packaging.  Women who use NARS in my mind embodies this sophisticated, chic elegance. (I mean, I try, but don’t always hit that mark.)  This is my first time trying NARS lipstick.  I know, I’m super late. Better late than never right? So naturally, I was super excited! I love lipstick! I have so many different brands and shades. I have so many different shades of red, so this one added to my collection oh so perfectly.  It was Friyay, and the perfect night to take this baby out for a spin. “Paint the town red,” they said and I replied, “Yes, oh yes!”

First, I’m a huge fan of matte lipstick. 99% of my lipstick collection is matte. The problem with matte lipstick as we all know, is that it dries your lips out. I usually just use regular ole’ chapstick and it’s not a big deal. Most of the time I don’t even bother with chapstick though, it’s only for the super drying formulas. 

Yes, sadness. You know where this is going. It was soooo drying I begged my friend to borrow her chapstick.  The color was beautiful. It’s a beautiful dark wine red shade. It’s a shame. 

Not only was it super drying, but the color wouldn’t stay. I thought it was because we ate dinner and so it’s natural for the color to fall off.  I reapplied and carried on with my night to a cocktail lounge and drank out of a teensy straw and stared at hunk of a man across the room. 30 mins later I walked to the bathroom and was like omg why do I have to reapply again!? I always use lip primer, so like wtf? I hate wasting time on things I shouldn’t be doing again and again and again. That’s all I did all night, run to the bathroom to check my lipstick was still on. 

Sorry, I can find a similar shade with another brand that stays on longer and won’t dry my lips out this bad. 

Hair Polisher from Smooth 'N Shine Hair Polishing

I came out the womb with frizzy hair. In middle school, we had to do some creative writing. One of my classmates took his character inspiration from the kids in our class. During peer editing, I was tasked to look over his work. There were about 8 people in our class and only two of us were girls. So his character description for me was pretty easy to spot. A "short, round, frizzy haired girl...." That's still a pretty accurate description. But I have learned a few things about managing my frizzy,  wavy mane. 

If you have chronic frizzy hair, you know that running a brush through your hair is the worst thing you can do. Often times you have to just let your tangles be and just hope that no one tries to run their fingers through your hair. They might not get their hand back. 

I remembering using Smooth 'N Shine Hair Polisher when I was a kid. It works really well to, well, smooth your hair! But always work from your ends up. When my hair is in it's natural state, I like to use the Hair Polisher to calm it. I put about a quarter size in my palms and massage through my fingers before rubbing it into my hair. It is better to use your fingers because it gives you a better chance of spreading the product evenly. I hate when I get too much product in one spot of my hair and the products don't spread evenly.

If my hair is blown out, like in the pictures below, I use just a dime size, maybe even less. I focus it on my ends. Once 99% of the product is off my hands and in my hair, I GENTLY touch up the fly aways dancing near my roots. I never apply these products near my roots because I don't like the greasy hair look. I can't do it. But if you want that glossy, editorial hair look, you can use this product for that too. I did it of fun just before going to wash my hair. I mean, it's not like I was going to the Oscars. 

This isn't even close to how frizzy this hair can get. Also, ya'll know I did not wake up with all that makeup on lol!!! #WentHAMwithTheBlush 

The hardest ones to tame without greasing up your whole look are the ones framing your face. 

The Hair Polisher has good slip, which means it glides through your hair easily. A little bit goes a long way. Even on my dry, color-treated hair. The product is very thick, so less is more. The only reason I think I stopped using this product is because I went through a bougie phase lol! This product can have you smooth and ready to run out the door. You can see that my hair is still a tiny bit frizzy, but I've never minded my frizzy hair, tbh. 

What I don't like about this product is that the day after I use it, my hair smellz. If you have dry, frizzy, color-treated hair, you know that washing your hair too often just makes it drier, frizzier, and you're wasting your money dyeing your hair. I wash my hair about every 4-5 days. But the day after I use this product, I have to wash my hair. It has a sweet, sour candy smell to it when you first apply it. But the next day.....um hmm! It's just sour. It has to go.

I would not recommend this product for blondes, which I was up until a few weeks ago. When your hair is bottle-blonde, so many things can effect the color. Product build-up in the hair can make your hair look rusty and orange. The hair polisher gives your hair an orange hue. Like instantly. 

Smooth 'N Shine Hair Polisher is SUPER affordable and really easy to find! You might find it in the 'ethnic' beauty section. Real quick, WTH is ethnic hair when everyone has an ethnicity. Oh right, it's just a way to make people feel excluded from beauty. Read about SheaMoisture taking a stance on beauty segregation here. Read about their #BreaktheWalls campaign here. 

How do you solve frizzy hair?

Available at Target; $4.39

Product photo from Target.com

All photos are property of Meetpepperb.com

Out of Trouble: 10 Minute Mask to Rescue Problem Skin by Origins

Origins is a skincare line that flies under the radar. Their packaging is simple. They haven't saturated their Instagram with influencers and influencers don't really hype up Origins' products. Because they aren't constantly cranking out gimmicky products, it's one of the skincare lines that I sincerely trust. I also have yet to try a product of theirs that has disrespected my face by making it break out. 

The Out Of Trouble 10 Minute Mask to Rescue Problem Skin is a great solution for someone who needs balance to their skin. It can quickly absorb oiliness but and exfoliate any dryness to the skin. 

I have mostly normal skin. Though you rarely see it here on meetpepperb.com, I wear glasses. All the time; not for reading or long distance. I just can't see lol. Where my glasses sit on my face, I get some oiliness if I don't regularly clean my frames. I use this mask about once every two weeks to balance my skin in those areas. When I get some hormonal pimples, I use this mask to treat them. It soothes the inflammation so that a pimple isn't so red. Like with most clay masks, overuse will lead to dry flakes on your face. Be cautious and listen to your skin.

Not all masks are going to give your instant results. Continued use of this face in addition to your regular skincare routine, will help you find balance for your skin. 

How do you kill time waiting for a mask dry

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Other Origins Product Review:

Origins Clear Improvements Active Charcoal Mask to Clear Pores

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Available at Sephora; $26

Product photo from Sephora.com

All other photos are property of Meetpepperb.com

Cover FX Clear Cover Primer Review

Written by: Deanna P

For someone who is a beauty editor, I am sad to say, I don’t know all of the products on the market today.  It’s mainly because there are millions out there & every week probably another ones comes out.  A couple of weeks ago, I was given Cover/FX clear cover invisible sunscreen broad spectrum SPF30.  It comes in 1 size; 0.5 oz/ 15 mL & retails for $45.00.

Cover FX is a Canadian brand that was founded in 2000 by Ontario Corporation.  It was created to fill a need for a product that provides therapeutic benefits & environmental protection that is free of all irritants & can beused on all skin types including sensitive skin. In 2003 Cover FX launched is the most popular drug store in Canada called Shopper’s Drug Mart.  Then in 2006 the products were launched in the UK & last but, not least in 2007 it came to the USA. The invisible sunscreen is the first product I have ever tried by this brand.   What makes this product so cool is it’s light, invisible & non greasy.  Once you apply it to the skin, it melts into your skin so nicely, you would never even know that you had it on.  I apply sunscreen everyday so it is perfect for me.   It is Broad Spectrum SPF30.  It also doesn’t only protect your skin from the sun, but it moisturizes, nourishes, & brightens.  

it is packaged in asmall container that closes well& is easy for me to carry with me in case I want to apply it again throughout the day.    This is key for me as I don’t like to be without protection if I am out in the sun for any length of time.   I mentioned in a previous post that I had skin cancer & sun screen is a necessity for my beauty routine.   This will be a staple for me this summerIt is easy to apply as all you do is smooth it in with your fingers to a clean dry face.   You should apply 15 minutes before you have sun exposure & you should reapply every 2 hours.  Besides having no parabens, this product is free of formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, fragrance, toluene, gluten, DBP (dibutyl phthlate), mineral oil, camphor, and talc. It is rather pricey at $45.00, but it feels great on the skin & has additional benefits besides sun protection.  I will say ti is 100% worth is if it blocks the sun from my face.  After using it for a couple of weeks, I like it.   My opinion is based on how it feels & how my skin is looking lately.    I have not sat out in the sun for hours at a time so don’t have an opinion on how well it blocks the sun yet.  

You can buy it or find out more information below on the company’s website or you can purchase it at Sephora. 

https://www.coverfx.com

Charcoal Pore-Minimizing Hydrogel Mask by Boscia

Please add this mask to your cabinet. As a matter of fact, add two of them. Boscia is a Japanese skincare line who is famous for their black skin care products. Most notably, the peel off Luminizing Black Mask. But I would not be surprised if this Charcoal Pore-Minimizing Hyrdogel Mask is a close second for their most loyal consumers. 

I prefer hydrogel sheet masks to fiber masks. I find hydrogel to be more soothing on the skin. This Boscia mask comes halves. It is most likely so the sheet mask does not tear when you apply it to your face; not that it is super fragile. 

My skincare concerns regarding my pores always fall back to the pores on my nose. I've told you how they're so deep you can pack a snack in them for long car rides, right? Because of this, I am always skeptical of products that claim to be pore-minimizing. I have some pores on my cheeks just around my nose as well. You can imagine my shock when I slid this mask off my face to reveal a 98% smooth nose! (I'm just guessing lol! I did not graph my nose) My skin had been nearly perfected. And, folks, that's way more than I'm aiming for. It works!!! This hydrogel mask would be great to use before applying makeup for flawless skin. My mom is in her mid-40s (30s, if you ask her) and she has porous skin. She picked up her own Charcoal Pore-Minimizing Hyrdogel Mask and she loved it too! The results lasted for a few days, too!

Pour yourself some tea, you've got time to kill. 20 minutes to smooth skin. So freak your friends out on Snapchat. I'm so guilty of having the longest stories on snapchat and IG stories! 

The only reason this mask doesn't have a full 5 stars is because it oversells. It claims to "remove" and "draw out" blackheads and whiteheads. I did not experience that myself. Just rein it in! When you oversell a product and it doesn't live up to the claims, that is when a product receives negative reviews. It was the only thing that disappointed me. That being said, I would certainly keep this mask in beauty arsenal. 

              Why snapchat always be shading me??

Do you prefer fiber masks or hydrogel masks?

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Available at Sephora; $8

Photos taken with iphone 7

All photos are property of Meetpepperb.com

Milk Makeup Gel Brow

By Amanda V. 

Brows are very important to me, and even saying that is an understatement. I'm not talking the ever popular Instagram Brow, although that’s beautiful and a work of art,  I'm more of a Brooke Shields, full and fluffy kinda gal. It has just always been my thing. For that natural full and fluffy kind of look that I thirst for, there aren’t many products other than my beloved Glossier Boy Brow that can do the trick but… just recently I think I've come across my new favorite Brow pencil. For the past month I've been using Milk Gel Brow on these unruly and slightly patchy brows of mine. The pigment on this bad boy is spectacular and it glides on so silkily. The light formula fills in the sparse patches in my naturally full brows. although at first glance it does look extra dark while in pencil form, but when used on the brow its glides on like wax but has the consistency of a light silky powder. This waterproof, matte pencil has buildable tint because I did go over twice to get it slightly darker and No matter the layers of tint, it doesn’t ever come off harsh whatsoever. This product has a light waxy texture and doesn't look unnatural at all. I am obsessed!!! I love the result. It lasts throughout the day and doesn't fade or slip off or transfer throughout my 9 hour work days (Brownie points for longevity). 

It is a pencil that has to be sharpened but you don’t lose much product with it as long as you use a great sharpener, especially since its not that easy to sharpen because of the hard plastic of the pencil (I use Urban Decay’s Grindhouse). Also, If I could change just one tiny little flaw about this product is that the spooley on the end is so damn rough. I repeat… ROUGH! I tried and tried and I can’t deal with it so I had to use my Real Techniques Brow Groomer. The spooley seriously feels like tough boar bristles. Being that these 2 tiny cons exist, I'd have to knock off a single star from an otherwise perfect score. 

The price point is pretty decent at 18 USD and sold at some Urban Outfitters stores, Sephora and MilkMakeup.com. I wouldn't exactly use this for mimicking teeny tiny hair strands like the Anastasia Beverly Hills’ Brow Wiz, but I think this is an ideal product for those of us with full, feathery brows and want natural looking definition or desire them and want to achieve a bolder brow. Also, this brand is crap-chemical free (yucky parabens) and made with the best of the best ingredients as well as being eco friendly (Yay!) So I highly recommend you give this little gem a try.  

Commodity Gold Fragrance Review

Written by Deanna P 

For those of you that have followed me or read any of my reviews on perfumes, colognes, etc, you know that I am extremely particular about scents.  I believe there can be the best smelling perfume ever, but it just might not mix with your body chemistry, therefore, it will smell horrible on you.  With that said, I use the same perfume everyday.  I have switched maybe a handful of times in my life, because when I find a scent I like, I stick with it.  

I recently was given the Commodity Gold Eau De Perfume Spray to try.  I knew nothing about the brand or their line of perfumes.  All I had read was they were said to be used on both men & women.I came to find out that Commodity as a company was all about the fragrance being about the individual. Like their name implies,  there collection is inspired by everyday commodities.  They also believe the fun comes in when you mix & match their scents to create an individual scent that is perfect for you.   They have a few collections & Gold is in the white collection which also includes, Rain, Mimosa, Tea,  & Magnolia. 

Gold comes in a 3.4 Fl oz/100 ml bottle for $105.00 & Eau De Perfume Spray which is 0.33 oz/10 ml for $26.00.   I think the pricing is fair as perfume is expensive & I believe this brand will be around for a while as it is cool & very appealing.  The concept is an interesting approach to something that has been around for years, but has not changed much.  Commodity really makes perfumes sexy, new & exciting. Gold is one of the more popular scents.  It was inspired by money in liquid form.  It’s notes include Bergamot, Juniper Berries, Camphor, Amber, Haitian Vetiver, Benzoin, Sandalwood, Vanilla, Tonka Bean,  & Nubian Musk. 

The first time I sprayed this on myself was before I was getting in the shower as I was that afraid I would not like the way it smelled.  Well, I have to say I was more than pleasantly surprised.  I loved it!  I did not only think it smelled delectable…..I thought it smelled amazing on me.  I have been wearing it every day since I first tried it.    The white collection is said to be light, airy, & easy, which it is.   The mix of the notes really make this true liquid gold for me.  The smell pleases me & makes me very happy.  I definitely recommend & I will probably buy more of these scents so I can mix & match them & see what more I can create.

You can purchase Gold & more of Commodity scents at Sephora or their website, click here on one of the sites below:

http://www.sephora.com/gold-P395000

https://commoditygoods.com

Black Radiance Artisan Color Baked Bronzer in Gingersnap.

By Amanda V. 

It is very rare that I come across a makeup product that is magnificent from the drugstore. I don't mean to come off like a snob but I simply never had much luck because I feel like most of the time the quality either sucks or breaks me the F out. There are a few gems here and there and This incredible Bronzer from the brand Black Radiance that can be doubled as a highlighter is IMMACULATE!!! I am Preaching this product right now because HOLY GLOW!!! The Pigment is perfect and it glides on smoothly, which is a godsend because in my experience most drugstore bronzers look dusty and flat like chalk. This gleaming gilded color is buildable with each layer you apply but still feels weightless as if you swept nothing onto your skin. The silky texture blends effortlessly into the skin and I am left glowing like a golden GAWDESS!! Seriously guys, this affordable bronzer gives that Queen Bey Status Glow. The shimmer isn’t too intense so it can be used as a bronzer but still has enough glow that it can be used as a subtle highlight especially on you beautiful gals rich in melanin.  

With Flash: This is a single finger swatch guys!! OMG!!

This product is a shimmering, beachy summer glow packaged perfectly into a small powder pan. The packaging is plastic and lightweight, very simple and minimal. What I love most is the price point, this bronzer retails for under $5 at your local Target, Walmart and BlackRadianceBeauty.com. An absolute STEAL, how could I not give it a perfect score? This is a hidden gem and I honestly recommend this to anyone and everyone. It also comes in 3 other shades that I can’t wait to get my hands on. 

Melted Matte Liquified Long Wear Matte Lipstick by Too Faced

Too Faced expanded their Melted Liquified Long Wear Lipstick again! This time they ditched the squeeze tube, added a wand, and topped it off with a matte finish. The matte lipstick trend is here to stay. Which I'm thankful for; I can't get enough! Because it is Too Faced, obviously the packaging of the product is just as much of a feature as the actual makeup. It's girly, gaudy, and fabulous.

On the angled side of the doe-foot applicator, there is a dip that allows for the perfect amount of liquid lipstick to be collected so you can cover each lip to full-color opacity without having to dip back into the tube. The formula is of a thick, mousse-like texture that easily slips over your lips for an even color application. I'm not sure why. but when you apply the product, it doesn't look very smooth at first. Maybe it has to do with the fibers of the applicator. Instead of just continuously rubbing the wand over your lips, use your finger to tap the formula into your lips. It settles the product and gives you that flawless finish. 

Mrs. Roper

Mrs. Roper Mixed

These two shades are a perfect way to show you that the quality of the formula depends on the shade. Mrs. Roper (the bright orange shade) and Miso Pretty (the pale pink shade) perform completely differently. If you are familiar with makeup, you know that this is not uncommon in lipstick lines. Mrs. Roper goes on your lips without a hitch. Just tap it into your lips, like advised previously, and you are set. Miso Pretty, on the other hand, takes a lot more work. Truthfully, the color doesn't work on its own. I couldn't get an even application no matter what I tried. Miso Pretty is patchy and even looks a little powdery. The color on my skin just did not work either. I looked like I ate a powdered donut and like I have never heard of chapstick in my life. The color made my lips look so ashy and chapped and they weren't.

Miso Pretty

Applies patchy

Miso Pretty mixed

I will say, however, that not all is lost on a shade like Miso Pretty. These super pale shades are great to have on hand for customizing your lipstick shade. Though we all do it, It's impractical to have lipsticks that have a hair of a difference in shade. Having shades like Miso Pretty can make your lipstick collection endless. I used to use Babette from Lime Crime adjust a shade of lipstick. It's similar to Miso Pretty just more peach. I mixed Miso Pretty into Dose of Colors' liquid lipstick in Berry Me 2 to create a shade I didn't have but wanted to use. Mrs. Roper isn't a color I would normally wear either. It is practically neon! I mixed it with some brown lipstick and created this brick-y orange shade that I love! It is RARE that I ever wear just one lipstick. I must sound crazy whenever my friends ask what lipstick I'm wearing because I have to say, "well I started with - added this, then topped it with that, but just in the center of my top lip because my bottom lip is poutier and I wanted to even them out a little." If their eyes glaze over, I just say, it's a mixed of stuff. 

I recommend this line to everyone and encourage you to pick up some shades you don't love. Experiment! Mix it with another shade and you probably will! There are 18 shades to choose from, plus, Too Faced often releases limited edition shades. 

What are your favorite lipstick combos?

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Available at Sephora; $21

Product photo is from Sephora.com and not property of meetpepperb.com

Beauty photos taken with iphone 7 & are property of meetpepperb.com