No Rules

How can October be here already?? It's been Fall for a few days now, and yet it's been the hottest it's been all Summer today (whew and yesterday!) I'm ready for a snuggle-y season of sweaters, dark nail colors, and cinnamon scents. Hmmm... but first I am going to Hawaii!! I'm ready for Fall, but I guess I'm still holding onto Summer too. So why can't you hold onto some of your Summer products and start to introduce your Fall colors to your makeup bag? It can be done.. because really there are no rules when it comes to makeup.

1. Moisturizing Lipstick by Radiant Cosmetics {Park Avenue} $18.00

When you are spending your hard earned money on your necessities {and your wants} wouldn't it be nice to know your also helping another woman in need? Help stop human trafficking with your purchases at Radiant Cosmetics. Learn more here. For the Fall season I will be rocking these lovely deep burgundy and red tones. Most of the time I will skip the lip liner so it has a more stained, daytime appropriate look, and than bring a gloss in my purse for a touch-up halfway through my day. (Another neat thing: The lid has a clear circle on top, allowing you to see into the tube-great for a makeup artist's kit!)

2. Diorskin Nude {Natural Glowing Foundation SPF 15} $48.00

This formula feels like a tinted moisturizer, and while it offers a sheer coverage I was able to achieve a medium coverage by layering it where needed with a Full Coverage brush (see below). My skin is a bit on the oily side, so I noticed I had a dewy look after a longer work day (it was a super hot that day too). I was a bit surprised since I had used a primer and set it with a powder...I probably will use this on days where I will have a lighter work load, or maybe when I am relaxing on a day off. I would recommend it for those with drier skin types! There are a lot of color options, so it will be easy to find the right shade. Also, it has rose water and minerals in it-so its good for your skin too!

3. Eye Makeup Remover {Balms Away} by The Balm $19.99

Makeup remover in a tin!? Yep!! I'm pretty excited to finish this product just so I can re-use the tin for bobby pins or elastic bands. I'm impressed with this weird looking, kinda like lard, balm. All you have to do is apply (a small amount) product onto the eye and lightly rub in a circular motion. After, I take a cotton ball and clean up the residue. There is no product left on the face afterwards, so you don't feel like you need to cleanse all over again with a facial cleanser. It's a lot easier than it looks, and its the perfect remover right before bed. I'm hooked!

4. Bare Escentuals Ready Bronzer {The High Dive} $24.00 5. Highlighting Blush by NARS {Albatross} $28.00

I dust on my bronzer pretty much everyday (yes, Summer and Winter)...it's just how you apply it. I have a heavier hand in the Summer, and a softer approach in the Winter. Whether it's to contour with blush or a quick fix to give my skin some color all on its own its a must in my bag. I still love my Warmth, but having a pressed option makes traveling much easier. There are still no binders or waxes, Bare Escentuals used carrot oil to press this little guy!! I love the look combined with a highlighter, and you can't go wrong with a beautiful golden tone to your skin found in Albatross. In the Summer it adds a nice sun-kissed look, but in the winter is helps dry-chapped skin have a healthy glow. On lazy days, I will use Albatross as my eyeshadow too!

6. Kiehl's {Super Fluid UV Defense SPF 50+} $38.00-$61.00 7. Rembrandt Intense Stain {Stain Dissolving Strips}$22.99

While in Mexico, I was very thankful I had a wonderful sun guard for the face. My face was still white and bright when we returned (yeah no sun spots!!) Unfortunately I was not as kind to the rest of my body... anyways, my hubby uses it everyday too! It is extremely lightweight so I don't feel sticky and I don't mind layering on my foundation with this product. It doesn't really have a scent either, so you barely noticed it during the day. This will be a staple for every trip from now on!

Normally, I would whiten my teeth before special occasions...but I have noticed my coffee and wine is catching up to me. So now I try to do brighten my smile weekly. The great thing about my routine is it is easy, I am not as high maintenance as one would think. So adding a product that is 2-10 minutes doesn't affect my schedule in the evening (or morning). I apply the strips while washing my face, applying moisturizer...etc etc...the strips are dissolved and ready for me to brush 'em! In the past, I have used products that make my teeth sensitive, this is not the case with the Rembrandt brand!

8. Dior Backstage Foundation {Full Coverage Fluid Brush} $48.00

Sometimes you save the best for last... I love a good story behind my product. We all want to experience an "experience"  right?! This elegant black wooden handle, was crafted by Raphael, a French maker of art brushes. Each hair is assembled by hand and never cut. It is wonderful for buffing in your concealor for a flawless look, or applying your liquid foundation for a fuller coverage. Either way, it's pretty to look at!

Enjoy the sunny weather this week!

XOXO
Priscilla Francine

Yes, Everyone Needs Eye Cream!

Girlfriends...you have to start using eye cream! If your mother never told you about eye cream, buy her one too! (...and let your man share with you too!) I'm not normally this bossy... but it's now my official rule for any age or gender. Especially if you are getting married, all soon-to-be Mrs. must start this daily routine today. Here is why you need to use this additional product day and night...we age the quickest around our eyes because the skin is thinner so fine lines begin to formulate. Dryness occurs which causes our makeup to crease. Our poor diets, lack of sleep, and genetics can give us dark circles. While you may have a facial moisturizer already an eye cream is still necessary. It has different ingredients and different concerns to target.

There is no need to invest your entire month's salary for a quality eye cream... and besides you can now get an Opal for half of what I paid :) try a few of my favorites first before breaking the bank: Avocado Eye Cream by Kiehl's or Contour Cream by Caudalie  and if price is no issue for you, try Chanel or La Mer.

Recently, I began using CytoCell Dark Circle Corrective Eye Cream by Kate Somerville . It has Vitamin C, Eyeseryl, and light diffusing pearls to target my main concern of dark circles. I am hoping I can be part of the 75% who will see results in this area. I have noticed a difference with the light diffusing pearls so I am pretty sure I am a believer in the product. It will also help hydrate and firm my skin with Peptide P-199 and Milk Peptide Complex.

I'd love to hear about your success stories after using an eye cream for the first time!! (Tell me all about it on Twitter!)

XOXO
Priscilla Francine

Unexpected

Unexpected- (adj.) surprising or unforeseen. Most people hear this word and think something negative, ughh... like an issue with your car-right?? Well, not all unforeseen things HAVE to be bad... they can be good and positive too!

Take home decor for example... While my main statement color in my home is red, I have found that pale pink roses are a great addition to my more "guy" friendly looking living room! Who knew something so unexpected could pair so well!! Maybe I should get an interior design degree!

Lately, I have been pleasantly surprised by those "unexpected" products in the beauty world: Long lasting products, bold lip colors, sultry scents... While your style may be more traditional, or conservative, I challenge you to buy something that may surprise people (and YOU) this week!

Unexpected, yet delicious scent: Coconut Milk & Mango-Anthropologie

Unexpected and iconic- Morange Lipstick by MAC

Unexpectedly  full of Minerals: Evian Spray

Unexpected, lightweight texture-Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream

Unexpectedly, stays put all day-Pro Longwear Lip Pencil in What A Blast by MAC

Unexpected cleansing product-Yes to Cucumbers Facial Towelettes

Unexpected shimmer- Orgasm Nail Polish by NARS

Hopefully something "unexpected" will happen in your life soon...a raise, a new opportunity in life to meet that someone special... a trip to a new place.... hmmm??? The possibilities are endless... 

XOXO
Priscilla

Party Planner

With the winter holidays upon us, that means social gatherings galore! Here are a few products I use to prepare my home before quests arrive, and my skin before the parties!

Over the years, Lavender has become one of the most relaxing scents for me. Candles always give me a calm sensation-my favorite candle in the house is my Capri Blue Mercury Glass candle from Anthropologie. The container matches my home decor, and it sits lovely in my glass bowl of dried lavender.

Buy fresh Lavender, let it dry, and than use as a candle filler.

Hand soap is another item I recently have been splurging on...when I first tried L'Occitane's Lavender Cleansing Hand wash I couldn't stop admiring the fragrance. Having a elegant or fun hand wash in the bathroom during the Holidays is always nice for guests to indulge in.

With the long hours of shopping, decorating, and events remember to hydrate under the eyes. The skin under the eye is thinner, showing fine lines and dark circles faster. Kiehl's Avocado Eye cream will soothe the dryness around your eye are (and even the lips!) make sure to follow the directions and "pat" not rub, as the consistency will change and not work as well.  (It's a great price point too only $27!)

Red Nails always gets me in the Holiday Spirit

Last but not least... start prepping your legs and arms for all the Holiday parties. (I can't wait to have some fun this season!) Clarin's Delectable Self Tanning Mousse has Mirabella Oil in it, which is a great moisturizer during the cold season, will give you a healthy color (for that cute sequin dress), and if there is sun out-you even have some protection with it's SPF 15.

Do you have any fun parties planned this season?

XOXO
Priscilla

Hume = Happiness

August has been a very busy month for me, so it's been tough keeping up with posting on a regular basis. It's wedding season, we recently moved to a new place, annnnd I celebrated my 1 year anniversary with my hubby! I feel like we just got married! Soon-to-be-Mrs listen up-enjoy every moment of planning your wedding...indulge in the details, take joy in the mishaps of the preparation, and on your day stand still and soak it all in! The day ends SO fast. I wasn't expecting a whole year to fly by just as quick as my wedding day, so enjoy your first year of marriage to the fullest!! I guess the saying is true, time flies when you are having fun.

James and I met at Hume Lake years ago, so it was only appropriate we spend our first anniversary in this beautiful place. Ever girl squeals over her Summer Camp crush, so to come back with a husband and relive those butterflies was so fun. We hiked to the cove, played volleyball & frisbee golf, rented paddle boards to absorb the beauty of the lake, enjoyed milkshakes, sat by a campfire...sigh and just soaked in the beauty of the trees.

Living Proof Shampoo & Conditioner. Kiehl's Acai Damage-Minimizing Cleanser. Laura Mercier Oil Free Tinted Moisturizer & Eye Basic in Buff. Dior Lip Maximizer.

I packed very light, but thought it was the perfect time to try out my Living Proof Shampoo and Conditioner. I was skeptical...I have tried some other products in the past and they didn't work for my hair. I was pleasantly surprised with these 2 choices, the results were great! When you travel to new heights, your hair reacts strangely, but my hair was soft, healthy, and not frizzy at all. Also, when I took out my pony tail, the hair was less crimped than normal!

As we were moving, I found Kiehl's Acai Damage-Minimizing Cleanser. Perfect for our trip!  I felt one with nature using such an organic based product. It is so important to find products that can target all concerns. I felt this completed the task controlling my oily skin, while preventing signs of aging in my skin. I also appreciated the foam texture.

Choose a lighter tone for your manicure, and a darker hue for your pedicure!

Our view during breakfast!

What did you do for your first wedding anniversary????

XOXO
Priscilla

Fall into Love

I was inspired by Emma Watson's makeup in Vogue's July issue. I feel Fall creeping up, and I don't really know where Summer even went...hmm? I am craving a poncho...and maybe some boots??

As for makeup, choose a thicker coverage to your foundation, think intense defined eyes, and fall in love with a burgundy lip. Nails are dark and cool,get some fun NEW brushes, and prepare for harsher weather with Kiehl's Imperial Body Balm...it's rich and luxurious, just like Falls Makeup Trends.

Fall 2011 Basics by priscillafrancinemakeup on Polyvore.com

Dior 'Diorskin Airflash' Spray Foundation Sand 301 One Size, $60
NARS Duo Eyeshadow Tzarine One Size, $33
Bobbi Brown Lip Gloss - Aubergine, $22
NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil - Toundra, $24
Kiehl's 'Imperial' Body Balm No Color 8 oz, $42
Benefit Cosmetics Dallas - Belk.com, $28
Yves Saint Laurent Noir Radical Mascara, $30
MAC 128 Split Fibre Cheek Brush No Color One Size, $32
XOXO
Priscilla

The Joy of Adult Acne

Over the past few months, it seems very common that majority of my friends are suffering from adult acne (not to be confused with Rosacea). Last year when we started planning our wedding I noticed a large breakout, and this annoyance is still around. Before I had the occasional pimple around "my time of the month"...I'd put some toothpaste on it and it would subside. However, my skin now transitioned into consistently having Acne.

Here are a few products I have tested, loved,stopped using...and so on...

1. I first started with Mario Badescu's Glycolic Acid Toner and popular Drying Lotion. I bought the toner because it was alcohol free, yet still effective at exfoliating with 2% Gylcolic Acid and Grapefruit Extract. I did get bored with this toner and moved to another product soon after. Do not shake the Drying Lotion, just dip a Q-Tip into the pink layer, and than apply as a spot treatment. This isn't the cutest look, since you must wear it over night...

2. The Clarisonic tools make you reconsider "clean" skin. Read about the difference here. The plus is nice for the body, but I use my Mia more frequently because it fits into my hand perfectly...and my travel bag!

3. Good ol' Clinique 3-Step!! I NEVER had a "routine" for my skincare due to my anxiousness to try new products, but I have now gone through my second purchase with 3-Step and will most likely continue to use it. The Liquid Facial Soap for Oily Skin is my formula of choice, it does not leave my skin feeling tight at all. It also pairs nicely with the Clarisonic. When I first started the Clarifying Lotion #3 it tingled! It doesn't tingle anymore, and I kinda miss it. My hubby is obsessed with this pink bottle, he uses it on his face and chest, so we go through this bottle pretty fast. Lastly, I chose the Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel because I like the light feeling it offers. (Just a note, you will need more hydration this is only going to balance the skin, and there is no SPF.) Ladies, this is a perfect trio for you and your man to share!

4. Kiehl's Kiehl's Kiehl's...You have seen this Rare Earth Pore Cleansing Masque here before. I apply it in my T-Zone at least once a week, while I vacuum or fold laundry. It's a five minute masque, and it's my favorite masque, YES, my FAVORITE!! I use the Pore Refining Toner now and than, eventually I will try the cleanser and lotion. During the P.M I will sometimes use the Over-Night Biological Peel, this helps to reduce the look (size) of pores.

5. Ok, I found it! The one acne treatment I use too often. DDF's Acne Control Treatment. I only apply it where I need it...after my moisturizer, day and night. It drys up the acne, so make sure you are only using where and when needed. It's quite magical!!!

Once again, toothpaste is a great (cheap) remedy if you have nothing else. Aquafresh is what I would recommend.

XOXO
Priscilla

A look into my bathroom...

Do you read Vogue? Lately, I have been buying magazines at the grocery store. It is quite pricey, so I am considering giving in and getting a yearly subscription. I also really like Allure, they have sooo many cosmetic reviews!

1. L'Occitane Almond Shower Oil...is great for dry skin, and for shaving. I was scared to venture into a "oil" body cleanser...but it was really nice. I enjoyed the product more when I applied it dry and than rinsed off...it's scent blends well with the Creme De Corps.

2. Kiehl's Creme De Corps body moisturizer has healed my dry skin! I really enjoy how "oily" it feels without a residue after application. It is full of cocoa butter and sesame oil! Great for men too!! Read more about this line here.

3.Ever fill overwhelmed with your options in the self-tanning section?? Ever felt like you didn't really see a difference...or worse-you turned ORANGE!!!? I have had my fair share of bronzing accidents. I don't usually use Lancome, but I am always down to try something once. I fell in love with their Flash Bronzer. It has a natural carmel extract, with a pearl finish. It is also full of antioxidants-so it was hydrating as well!

5.Vegans please pay attention :) Try Dr. Dennis Gross' EXTRA strength Alpha Beta Peels! First, I use my regular face wash...makeup remover...and than Step 1...and than Step 2. Step 2 tingles a bit...which I liked, because I knew it was exfoliating! *It reduced my acne, and made my skin glow the next morning!

6. After exfoliating...always use a SPF. You don't want to repeat the damage you just got rid of! Clarins "Sun Wrinkle Control" is a light weight, comfortable texture. It does not smell, and it is fine to layer with makeup.

7. Laura Mercier's Lip Glace in Bon Bon is a great coral for Summer. It has a yummy vanilla flavor, and a light texture. 

8. Neutral nails always make the skin look more tan...I just painted mine in preparation for Vegas with Chanel's Django. (Read here to learn how to make your at home manicure last longer than normal) I'm hoping I get pleanty of Vitamin D this weekend!

Ok, now I need to go pack!! Stay tuned for pictures from my trip!
XOXO
Priscilla

A look into my bathroom...

Some are oldies, but some are brand new products. When I like something I tend to use it in my daily routine, so I wanted to share what I was stuck on this week...



1. Kiehl's Rare Earth Pore Cleansing Masque $23 Why I use it? Formulated with Amazonian White Clay to gently draw out oil, dirt and toxins that can clog my pores. The addition of Oatmeal and Aloe Vera will help soothe, hydrate and protect my skin.

2. Clarisonic's Opal $294 Why I use it? In just one minute, Opal™ provides more than 7,500 gentle micro massages to instantly hydrate, smooth and brighten my eyes.

3. Chanel's SUBLIMAGE EYE ESSENTIAL REGENERATING EYE CREAM $200 Why I use it? The ultimate in anti-aging luxury starts with one unique plant - the Vanilla Planifolia - unearthed in the farthest reaches of Madagascar. It helps with puffiness, and dark circles!

4. Bobbi Brown's Creamy Concealer and Corrector $32 and $22 Why I use it? It's the ONLY concealer that has hid my dark circles while still looking hydrated!

5. Chanel's NEW VITALUMIÈRE AQUA ULTRA-LIGHT SKIN PERFECTING MAKEUP SPF 15 $45 Why I use it? I get great coverage, without feeling like I have anything on my skin!

6. MAC's 130 Short Duo Fibre Brush $40 Why I use it? I applied my foundation AND concealer. It was a fuller coverage, yet very clean looking!

7. Mac's Studio Fix Powder $26.50 Why I use it? Great for touch ups, the coverage is intense!

8.Smashbox's HALO HYDRATING PERFECTING BRONZER $39 Why I use it? It's freshly shaved, and the color is super natural.

9. YSL 'Volume Effet Faux Cils' Mascara #3 extreme blue $30 Why I use it? It's so vibrant, and great when I don't want to apply eyeshadow. I still achieve enough drama with only mascara!

10. Estee Lauder's NEW 'Pure Color' Long Lasting Nail Lacquer, wild blue $19 Why I use it? I'm not a huge Lauder fan, but their new nail colors have caught my breath! Love this blue! Ohhh!






Hope you all enjoy my latest favorites!
xoxo
Priscilla

Creme de Corps

Last year I bought a Ford Edge, it's a great little commuter vehicle...the main reason I fell in love with it was because of it's fabulous moon roof. The past few days I have had the liberty of enjoying my moon roof, the sun has been spoiling me with it's rays, and oh have I enjoyed it during my drive to work. I have been pushing my luck, trying to get away with mini skirts without tights...it's not quite that warm yet which makes me yearn for the summertime.

In the meantime during these cold days, I have stumbled across a unique body wash and a new favorite body moisturizer to prep my skin. I enjoy a nice body scrub, rough particles always make me believe I am doing some deep cleaning. I tend to overlook hydrating body washes-so when I was given the Creme de Corps Soy Milk and Honey Body Polish by Kiehl's I was stoked! My first experience left me in awe, I was yelling out ingredients to James as I read on in the shower. James says I am always running behind, because I am distracted by my new beauty products I bring home. I just can't help telling him why "this and that" is so wonderful and why he needs to try it. Anyways, overall this product took care of all my concerns: exfoliation, cleansing, and hydration! It was nice to have a 3 in 1 product. I followed up with Kiehl's NEW Creme de Corps Soy Milk & Honey Whipped Body Butter. Although it doesn't have coconut in it, my nose grasped the presence of coconuts beautiful scent. All who know me, know I am a sucker for anything coconut...hmmmm. The texture of the Body Butter was luxurious, it was not sticky, oily, or too heavy/too light. It was perfection. These products are great for men and women, and great for those on a budget!



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I can't wait for summer!

XOXO
Priscilla