Amanda Weidensjö

Product Summary:  Skincare made for makeup. This hydrating primer instantly nourishes, plumps and preps skin to improve the look of foundation. It's full makeup prep in one step, blending the performance of a makeup primer with the cushion of a moisturizer. Cost: $95 for 50 ml ***Cruelty free*** This is my first Bobbi Brown product and I am a little conflicted. This product has been hyped for what feels like forever and after using the product myself I can understand why. My dilemma is the price tag. I liked that it was a two in one product but I could never justify keeping something so expensive in my makeup routine when I can buy something a fraction of the cost and it performs just as well.  Rating:  2 stars on 5. I unfortunately cannot seem to get passed the exorbitant price tag. While it does make my skin look lovely other primers can do the same for a lot cheaper of a price tag. I'm going to finish what I have left and will simply just move on. 

Product Summary: Two super silky powders give cheeks a flawless, fresh finish. The natural mineral formula is infused with vitamin e and mica, so skin is treated as you wear it. Hydrating, long-wearing and light-diffusing. I have both peach honey and rose gold. Cost: $18.  ***Cruelty free*** This will be a very short review because I have nothing negative to say about these blush duo's. They have been such a wonderful edition to my makeup routine and has been adding such a beautiful glow during these summer months.  I like to take a blush brush and swirl it over the entire pan and apply over the cheekbones then I add some bronzer which combined gives me such a beautiful look perfect for the summer. I prefer using peach honey during the day since it is warmer and rose gold for evenings.  Rating:  I am giving these blushes 5 stars on 5! It's a no-brainer. They have been such a great addition and clearly look gorgeous on my cheeks. Peach honey has been through the wring...

Product Summary: Tartelette in bloom is arranged in coordinating rows for 3 easy looks. From fresh mornings to flirty nights, this palette is always in season. It's made of Amazonian clay for all day long wear. Cost: $68 but bought on sale for $38.25   This is the perfect color story for the current season of spring and summer. Tartelette in bloom is a mix of cool tones and warm tones palette which is different to what I am used to and typically go for. However, the shades are still very much something I can work with and who doesn't love a nude/natural eyeshadows?  Over the years, I have tried a few different Tarte products. I can attest that I have had the best experience using their powder products over anything else and this palette is no different. It's been a complete joy incorporating it in my makeup routine.  This palette has the perfect balance of both shimmery and matte shades. I do tend to gravitate more towards the lighter shades just because I don't like ha...

Product Summary: Give your hair TLC with pure Argan oil, keratin and grapeseed oil. All the goodness your hair needs to correct the look and feel of dry, dull hair while protecting against split ends, breakage and frizz. This mask penetrates with hydration, bringing back the strength and shine you know. Cost: $5-8 ***Cruelty free*** Over the years I've had hit or miss experiences with Marc Anthony products. While I was skeptical, I'm happy to say that it worked quite well! I have a lot of hair that I colour every 4-6 weeks and on top of that I like styling my hair with heat tools so my hir was in need of some much needed TLC. It did require using the conditioning treatment a couple of times to see some results but after the second treatment there was visible improvement. The ends seemed hydrated and had more like to them.  I will mention that after a couple days I did need to use hair oil to keep my ends hydrated with how often I workout and style my hair I did need a boost. Ho...

 Product Summary: Brighten tired eyes with the three-in-one cooling eye cream. It contains a super fine low molecular weight Hyaluronic acid to hydrate the delicate skin, lock in moisture and plump fine lines from within. The powerful combination of cucumber, Aloe Vera, and Chamomile cools, hydrates and relieves puffiness on contact while witch hazel is brilliant at reducing dark circles and tightening the skin. Cost: $39 ***Cruelty free***  it comes to no surprise that I am continuing my journey on using and finding a good undereye cream. The older I get and the more I work, I try to keep up with skincare and finding a product that works well on me. And without breaking the bank.  Now I know that the before and after pictures don't look that much different from one another but I will say that there was a noticeable difference in the reduction of fine lines. They weren't as deep which was nice to see.  It as well did help hydrate the area but that's also because I ha...

 Product Summary: The super buildable formula of this volumizing and lengthening mascara takes your lashes to new heights and puts lash power at your fingertips for the look of longer lashes. Cost: $28 ***Cruelty free*** At this point, I've tried a few of It Cosmetics products by now and so far this has got to be the worst one. I love wearing mascara because I can't stand wearing false lashes but this mascara has made me skip that part of my makeup routine since it would end up on my under eyes. By the end of my workout session or evening out with friends I look like a hot mess. I even used another mascara just to see if maybe it's my fault and alas it seems that this mascara just isn't working for me.  Clearly, this is getting zero stars. And this will be a short review because I really didn't enjoy this mascara. Hopefully, the next product I try from them is better. 

Product summary: This vault holds 48 shades and 3 different finishes (Matte, Creme, and Blur.) From nudes to pinks, red to vampy, the big box is a makeup lover's dream! Paid $166 CAD. It ends up being $3.45 a piece.  ***Cruelty free*** I absolutely love the variety in colours and finishes. You have so many ranges of colors for any season/occasion and any type of makeup look. What drew me in were all the neautral/nude shades. A nude colour looks amazing on me with my complexion.  I'm not one that lines her lips then applies lipstick because oftentimes lips are the last thing I apply and by then I'm already needing to be out of the door. So, I tend to apply lipstick in a hurry or in the car. I love these lippies because I can leave a bunch of them in different handbags. There are quite a few neutral shades so most of the time they will pair well with what i am wearing and how I have done my makeup.  Rating: 5 stars on 5! I adore how each finish looks on my lips whether I wa...

Product summary: Bring on the bronze with the iconic bronzing powder formula. Silky pigments instantly deliver long-lasting warmth with all day comfort. Finely milled powders seamlessly build and blend to create a lit-from-within glow while translucent micro-spheres smooth skin texture for a perfected complexion. Can be used to contour, define, or enhance the look of tanned skin. Cost: $42 ***Not Cruelty Free*** What an iconic piece of influencer history! The OG Youtube community days would consistently mention/use Nars, especially, the Laguna bronzer. It has taken me years to finally have my hands on the most iconic bronzer. As I have said before, It's taken me a long time to properly incorporate bronzer in my makeup routine. Being a pale girly, my go to is using blush to add color to my face. But I have come a long way and now I am no longer afraid of using it, however, I still very much use a light hand when applying it.  Rating: I'm giving this iconic bronzer 4 stars on 5! ...

 Product Summary: The pore minimizing formula of this face primer tightens pores and gives a lifting effect to dull and saggy skin. It also helps minimize the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines; and smooth skin texture so that it avails skin to be seamless. Cost: $17.99  I first received this product in a Ipsy bag which is a monthly beauty subscription service where you get 5 items from sample to full size for around 30$ Canadian.  ***Cruelty free*** I have some fine lines around my eyes like everyone else and unfortunately when applying concealer it will settle into said fine lines so a good primer that helps my pores and fine lines is a must in my makeup routine.  I love how quickly this primer works to lift and smooth my under eyes. It clearly makes applying concealer a lot easer. If only I could turn this primer into a tinted version I would be able to skip a couple steps in my makeup routine.  It comes to no surprise that the primer is made in Korea because...

 Product Summary: I found this assorted 12 pack from TJ Maxx for $9.99 USD. This assorted pack contains hyaluronate, rose, strawberry, green tea, seaweed, collagen, pomegranate, red ginseng, royal jelly, vitamin, pearl and snail. They are meant to sooth the skin, moisturize, brighten and firm the skin.  ***Not Cruelty Free*** As it happens every winter season, my skin desperately screams for moisture. Especially, this past winter with rejoining the gym I've needed to prioritize skincare above anything else. The easiest and fastest way to get a boost of hydration? Sheet masks!  I absolutely love using sheet masks and one way I like using them is wearing them while I sleep. It ensures I get maximum hydration benefits and of course hen there is serum left over I will use it the following days afterwards.  This is going to be a short review but that is a testament to how well these sheet masks worked. As I have repeated time and time again, I have really sensitive skin s...

 Product summary: Foam cleanser with propolis extract which removes skin waste and dead skin cells with micro bubbles. Features propolis extract and botanical patent ingredients to help retain skin’s moisture. Cost: $25 I first received this product in a Ipsy bag which is a monthly beauty subscription service where you get 5 items from sample to full size for around 30$ Canadian.  ***not cruelty free*** I am a frequent gym goer about five to six times a week so I tend to get my sweat on. And with sweat, I sometimes get sweat pimples, especially, around my hairline so a good cleanser is a must in my routine. I have used this cleanser a handful of times and honestly I'm extremely hesitant to continue using it. We all know how sensitive my skin is and I noticed that after every use my skin, especially, in my t-zone would get extremely dry to the point that it started making me question if it was damaging my skin barrier.  I'm using this during cold months so I can only imagi...

 Product summary: This highlighting powder is a must have! Unleash your inner goddess with the lightweight, iridescent, and super buildable formula. It compliments every skin tone and can be used to highlight any part of the body. Cost: $18..? I have both Celestial and Rose Quartz.  I received these highlighters in a Ipsy bag which is a monthly beauty subscription service where you get 5 items from sample to full size for around 30$ Canadian.  ***Cruelty free*** Since I started using these products I did double check Saint Luxe's website and at the time they had their highlighters priced at $18 and just a couple months later it jumped to $26 and at this moment? Down to $25...that is a crazy jump! Especially, since it doesn't state on their website how much product you're getting for the price. I did check the packaging on the highlights and it does say they are 4.3g each. Just wish that was something they would include on their site.  You all know I am a huge lover o...

 Product Summary: Powers your skin to naturally produce collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid. Deeply nourishing and hydrating for a visible lift on the eye area. Ideal to combat the look of wrinkles and fine lines, hyperpigmentation and puffiness around the eyes. Cost: $98 for 15 ml/0.5 Oz.  I first received this product in a Ipsy bag which is a monthly beauty subscription service where you get 5 items from sample to full size for around 30$ Canadian.  ***Cruelty free** I am beyond shocked just how much this eye cream costs. Especially, since it didn't improve my skin all that much. I will say it was extremely hydrating but for the same exact results you can save yourself the money and buy a ton of cheaper alternatives.  The older I am getting the more I make a habit to prioritize skincare, especially, around the eyes. The skin around the eye area overtime tend to thin and of course that is typically where wrinkles start forming. One thing I love about subscription ...

 Product Summary: Venture down under and immerse yourself in the exotic cocktail of Australian fruits...kiwi, peach, avocado and natural botanicals that will leave your hair quenched, rejuvenated, strengthened and conditioned. Fast drying and non sticky, providing powerful long lasting hold to your finished style. Added UV protectors guard against environmental pollutants and discoloration. Cost: between $5-10.  ***Cruelty free*** If it hasn't been obvious, I love to take care of myself including my hair. My mother used to cut my hair short as a child and as soon as I was old enough I made it my mission in life to grow my hair out as much as possible. And I haven't looked back. I might have given myself some bangs over the years and a bunch of different colors but I have never chopped off my hair! With how often I do my hair and style it I need a good hairspray that is both strong and good for my hair. I have really thick hair despite popular belief and I love to curl my hair ...

 Product Summary: This natural fiber mask infused with coconut, rice and restorative Asian botanicals delivers antioxidants and minerals to your skin. This power blend soothes and nourishes while fighting free radicals and improving skin texture. Coconut locks in moisture while rice brightens, leaving skin healthy, beautiful and radiant. Cost: Between $5-10.  I first received this product in a Ipsy bag which is a monthly beauty subscription service where you get 5 items from sample to full size for around 30$ Canadian.  *** Cruelty Free *** With winter being in full swing I like to be proactive when it comes to skincare. During winter, I like to keep my skin as moisturized as possible to keep my skin looking great! Sheet masks are one of those easy things you can incorporate into your routine for a boost of moisture and brightening your skin. I love sheet masks because you can easily use each one for up to 3 times if not more. I tend to wear them overnight to get the maxi...

 Product Summary: Created to suit different skin tones and eye colours, the nude medium palette is a rich mix of spicy tones combining chestnuts and deep browns. Featuring metallic shimmers in warm yellow and rose gold tones, rustic copper, dusty pink, coral and unique terracotta shades. Full price: $44 but I bought it on sale for $22.  ***Cruelty free*** It comes to no surprise that I absolutely love this color story! Definitely, right up my alley. I love the matte and metallic shades! The entire color story just works well together and it's easy to mix and match the different eyeshadows to always have a beautiful eye look. It really is low effort on making them work together.  I have a love/hate relationship with the metallic/shimmer eyeshadows. I love how pigmented they are, however, whether I am using a makeup brush or my finger the shadow starts to crumble and it get everywhere. If I'm not careful when I apply it on my lids it will get everywhere on my under eyes and...

 Product Summary: This facial lotion is made with Argan and Olive oil to improve the skins texture and smoothness. While also to deeply moisturize and replenishes your skin. All ingredients are 100% naturally derived and is safe for sensitive skin. This lotion is also for normal to dry skin. Cost: $14 ***Cruelty free*** I first received this product in a Ipsy bag which is a monthly beauty subscription service where you get 5 items from sample to full size for around 30$ Canadian.  Click here to check them out.  The older I get the more I appreciate skincare and make a habit of moisturizing as much as possible. Whether it be on my legs, shoulders, neck or face, I'm always trying new moisturizers. And the more natural based they are, the better.  This is my first time actually using a product from this brand. I did receive their coconut scrub but I never ended up using it because it contained walnut shells which is too abrasive for skin and will create microtears. I fi...

Product Summary: Full coverage face bronzer delivers a natural looking bronze to fake a vacay glow. Vegan, talc-free and waterproof formula. The silky, lightweight powder instantly evens skin tone. Covers and blurs the look of imperfections. Cost: $65  ***Cruelty Free*** This bronzer has been a staple for years and for very good reason. This bronzer has stormed the beauty community and hasn't really left. Bronzers have clearly not been my favourite over the years but I have been improving and I have somewhat grown fond of them. It definitely took me a while to figure out the proper way to use them without looking like a dirty sewer rat.  This bronzer is so damn pigmented! Even though it is pigmented, you can definitely layer it on your skin. I love how buildable it is as long as you use a light hand. It's safe to say that this bronzer will last me quite a while before I even come close to seeing pan.  This bronzer is such a lovely shade and it compliment my complexion. I ...

 Product Summary: Refresh and reset your skin: treat your pores to a deep detox, smooth out skin texture and boost radiance with this multi-talented clay mask. It tightens pores in 10 minutes, fades hyperpigmentation and evens skin tone, draws out toxins, impurities and excess sebum, clogging pores. Cost: $49.  I first received this product in a Ipsy bag which is a monthly beauty subscription service where you get 5 items from sample to full size for around 30$ Canadian.  Click here to check them out.  ***Cruelty free*** This face mask is what my skin needed during these summer months. When the weather gets warmers I tend to develop tiny sweat pimples and have clogged pores on my nose and most of my t-zone area. I typically need something that will purge my pores while also leaving my skin glowing without any dryness which this clay mask does! This is my first time using a product from Sand & Sky and I'm surprised how well it worked on my skin and I'm happy to re...

Product Summary: Naked Heats up. Get lit with 12 can't live without, amber-hued naturals including warm browns, burnt oranges and rich siennas. From a super smooth red-brown matter and a glimmering copper to a deep, shift bronze, this palette has everything you need to create sultry daytime looks, intensely smoky nighttime looks and everything in between. Cost: Full price is $70 but I bought it on sale from Sephora for $38.50   ***Cruelty Free*** This palette is right up my alley! I love this kind of color story with browns and reds. It's absolutely perfect for the summer months while being dark enough for the autumn time when the weather gets colder.  I've been learning new ways to do my makeup instead of doing the same eye look; having a shimmer shade on my lids and matte colors on my crease. Prior to learning new ways to do my makeup I would have found this palette too dark, especially, for everyday wear. I would have thought a single light shimmery shade wouldn't be...