Smashbox

First Impressions

We put a lot into first impressions; it is often the most lasting and frankly, it may be the only one you get to leave.

As important as first impressions are, I can't help but wonder how often first impressions are wrong...Take the hubster and I...suffice it to say that it was definitely not love at first sight.  In fact, it took us 3 years and 2,061.9  miles to get over our first impressions, and finally get it right.

So in honor of second impressions, I thought I would share with you some beauty items that made me look twice; and perhaps inspire you to take a second look at the things around you (cosmetics or otherwise) too...because who knows, maybe the perfect guy  a "holy grail" has already been found but you just don't know it yet.

1. Smashbox Pro Palette

So many bloggers and youtubers raved about this palette that I knew I had to get it, but when I finally got it, I was thoroughly unimpressed.  The colors are so boring...or so I thought!   The colors are basic it's true, but the number of shimmery vs matte shades is genius!

The light shades are perfect for highlighting a variety of looks because you have a choice of matte or shimmery finishes and pink or yellow undertones.

Top: White, Cream, Taupe
Bottom: Nude, Champagne, Gold

The mid tone shades of pink, mauve, and brown are perfect for transition colors and the darker shades are so buttery and easy to blend.

Top: Pink, Mauve, Sable

Bottom: Lt. Bronze, Pewter, Garnet

Top: Expresso, Black

Bottom: Deep Purple, Slate

I use this palette daily either on its own or with another palette.  I need a backup...and I NEVER buy backups...

2. Smashbox powder

When I first used this many years ago I thought that it lacked coverage and lasting power.  Well recently I saw a youtuber use this powder and she looked so flawless that I bought it again.  This time I applied it over my foundation with a good brush and wow, so natural and so smooth!

I now use this powder every day to set my foundation and give me a little extra coverage.  Here it is swatched on the back of my *SUPER DUPER* dry hand but look how it doesn't settle into lines or dry patches!

Right:  Heavily swatched (you can see the powdery-ness here)

Left:  Blended out

3. Almay Smart Shade Mousse

While this particular product is new, I have used Almay's Smart Shade makeup in the past (the ones that come in a tube).  I thought that the tube versions lacked coverage and felt oily.  Well, this new Mousse version is definitely different.  The texture is soft and non-greasy and while the coverage is still light, it offers a beautiful finish: natural and not over done. 

Left: Blended out

Right: Heavily swatched (when you first put it on it looks white but see below!) 

It blended out beautifully to match my skin.  It looks natural but blurs imperfections just enough!

Well, I hope my experience inspires you to dig out a few neglected people products in your makeup drawer and give it another whirl...sometimes all we really need is a second chance.

Off to do laundry with my furriest helper!