DuWop's Twilight Lip Venom

Fans of Twilight might want to take a look at DuWop's new Twilight Venom. It's a lip-plumping lip gloss that contains the lip smoothing and conditioning ingredients Vitamin E, Argan, Avocado, and Olive Oil.

DuWop is thrilled to announce the partnership between Stephanie Meyer's acclaimed Twilight saga and the brand that started the lip plumping craze. In a chilling twist of fate DuWop's signature product, Venom, is also the means by which Meyer's mortals become transformed into vampires. Rather than a typical gloss, Twilight Venom is a shimmering crimson lip stain...

To use the product, shake well, then apply and reapply until desired color intensity is reached. You can find the Twilight Lip Venom at Sephora or Drugstore.com.

Image credit: Sephora.com

Makeup Inspired by Malibu Barbie

In celebration of Barbie's 50th Birthday, Stila has a series of limited-edition Barbie inspired makeup palettes. The kits are available online at Sephora.com

I like this one, featuring the look worn by my very first Barbie - the 1971 Malibu Barbie. I loved this doll and later her friend, I believe her name was PJ, joined us while we spent hours together playing. I've never understood the Barbie-haters. I never felt that I had to look like Barbie, but as a California Girl, I did think that she was the perfect bronzed beauty with the frosty eye shadow and cool pale lilac-colored sunglasses. They were sewn into her head. I wish I still had that doll.

Here's the product description from Sephora:

Stila Barbie Loves Stila Paint Can - 1971 Malibu Doll contains aqua eyeshadow and
pink lips for a sunny, beach look that symbolizes the fresh, natural beauty of
the 1970s. The three-pan palette contains eyeshadows, a bronzing powder, and
pinky-peach lip glaze so you can create the iconic look with just one kit at
your fingertips.

Image credit: Sephora.com

Foundation That's Worth Your Money

Ever since I was allowed to wear makeup I have been a big fan of the liquid foundation. Recently I decided to try a different brand than usual. I wanted something that would hide my blemishes and acne scars that's when I learned that M.A.C. Select SPF 15 Foundation was the solution.

A water-based liquid foundation. Combines medium coverage with SPF 15. Provides a fresh, natural matte finish. Layers up, lasts long: helps protect the skin all day. Non-oily.

It goes on smoothly and doesn't blotch on your skin. What I use to apply it with is a blush brush (there are foundation brushes you can purchase instead), I dip it in water then pat it damp dry, put two drops of the foundation in the palm of my hand and then dip the brush in. Then I apply it to my face with a circular motion as if you were to apply blush or a bronzing powder.

Here is a before and after I applied the M.A.C. Select SPF 15 Foundation: Before-
- after

They have many skin tones, these are only a few. If you live near a M.A.C. store they might have more tones to choose from depending on your store.
The cost of a 30 ml / 1.0 US FL OZ in the US is $26.00 and another $4.00 if you wish to purchase the pump. I find that the pump helps to give you the right amount of foundation, where if you pour some out you might end up using to much.

Some other good foundation brands that are cheaper that I've used before this have been Maybelline New York- Pure Makeup, Maybelline New York- Dream Matte Mouse, Cover Girl- Clean Makeup

Mannatech Optimal Skin Care System

I am lucky enough not to have too much trouble with acne. When I'm going through a time where my face is breaking out all over, I try to find skin products that are light, but still get the job done. Mannatech Optimal Skin Care System fits all the requirements. It's super pure water based formula helps hydrate dry skin and not irritate sensitive skin.

Product description:

Water, a basic component of all existence, soothes, invigorates, replenishes and revitalizes. Essential to life, water delivers valuable nutrients throughout our systems. Water is also essential to more youthful-looking, irresistible skin. Formulated in Japan, the world’s leading skin care market, the Optimal Skin Care System’s essential ingredient is delicately purified water.

Filtered through miles of limestone formations, the legendary water of Asia’s Hunza Valley has been celebrated over the centuries for its ability to help support heath, vitality and long life. Borrowing from the exotic Hunza land’s amazing geological filtration process, we are able to produce exceptionally pure water. This remarkable water now serves as the basis for seven luxurious products to help keep your skin looking healthy, supple and radiant.

To start the process I use a cotton ball along with the makeup removing oil, with one wipe I can get almost all of my eye makeup off including eyeshadow. Then, I use hot water, a wash cloth and about a quarter size amount of the cleansing cream to wash off the foundation on my face. Next, I use the lotion (its very thin, leaves your pores feeling able to breathe but still moisturizes your skin), followed by the skin serum which keeps my skin feeling soft, but not oily. Last, I use a dime size amount of the eye cream for both eyes.

After using the Mannatech Optimal Skin Care System I noticed a more brighter and softer complection, along with more hydrated skin. My blemishes were also much easier to cover with makeup than before.


Product review by: Bailey Smith

Introduction

My name is Bailey, I'm 16 years old. I love being girl-y. My favorite shampoo scents would be cinnamon, vanilla, and peach. I enjoy fixing my hair and makeup. Unlike my mom, my style is sort of high maintenance.
I look forward to being able to share my ideas and tips with you, enjoy : )

Introduction - I'm Michelle

Hello, I'm Michelle. I'm 42 and I love being a girl. I love makeup and skincare and shampoo that smells like pineapple. I love reading and writing about fashion and style, but I live a pretty laid back life in flip flops, for the most part.

I write a couple of beauty blogs for b5media and now, along with my 16-year-old daughter, Bailey, I'm embarking on this new blogging venture - Girl Looks Swell.

I'd like to cover beauty for women of all ages. In fact, my 10-year-old, Sarah, will also be popping in with her opinion from time to time.

I look forward to sharing my love of girl-stuff with you. I hope you enjoy reading Girl Looks Swell.