Best & Worst: Drugstore Liquid Eyeliner

 THE WORST - Wet n' Wild H20 Proof Liner

Internet, I don't get it. This Wet n' Wild liner gets so much hype. Even professional makeup artists rave about this stuff in makeup forums--WHY?! I really don't like giving negative reviews, but I figured perhaps someone could let me in on the secret as to why everyone loves this so much.

I have oily skin, and I use MAC Paint Pots or NARS Eyeshadow Primer (seriously the best) to control that. But, no matter how I prime my lids, this liner melts off all over my eyes by midday. I mean total, complete meltdown. It runs under my eyes and it "stamps" onto my crease/socket. Hot. Mess. City. 

So, who can enlighten me? Bueller? Bueller?

BEST - Rimmel Glam' Eyes Precise Design Liquid Eyeliner

This eyeliner was an unexpected find. I had run out of my trusty Kat Von D Tattoo liner and wanted a cheaper alternative. While the application is different (this is a brush while the Kat Von D liner is a felt tip pen) the longevity is the same. This liner has a slightly glossy finish once it dries, but it stays on and doesn't flake off.

The one thing I find might be an issue is the product's dry down. You can feel a slight tightening as it dries. It isn't bothersome by any means, but I feel it, and I know a lot of people have very sensitive eyes. Just wanted to give you all a heads up!

What are your drugstore hits and misses when it comes to liquid liner?

Top 10 Under 20: Drugstore Deals for Oily/Combo Skin

1.  Revlon ColorStay Foundation - $12.99


The old standby remains the best drugstore foundation for combo to oily skin. While some complain the finish is too thick, using your fingers or a damp sponge to apply the product results in a more natural finish.

2. Clean and Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets - $6.49

These babies are a god send. Ladies, if your skin is shiny there is no use in attacking it with powder. The oil will break through soon enough and your makeup will cake. Now, if you gently press one of these sheets over the oily area you eliminate your main culprit and a dab of powder seals the deal.

3. e.l.f. Mineral Infused Primer - $6.00

Primers can be extremely expensive. Before giving this one a try, I was using Mister Mat by Givenchy. The tube lasts forever (and I still have some left) but it goes for $34. This primer has not broken me out, helps for a smoother foundation look, and helps keep the oil at bay. This is a great alternative to Smashbox's Photo Finish Primer, with a slightly lighter texture.

4. e.l.f. Makeup Mist & Set - $3.00 

I discovered this after running out of my MAKE UP FOR EVER Mist & Fix (absolutely fantastic!) that, again, was a bit expensive at $29. While I still prefer the MUFE setting spray, this one does a great job for being $3.00!

5. Revlon ColorStay Concealer - $9.99

This is a great, blendable concealer from the ColorStay family. Although it is a long-wearing formula, I haven't had any issues using it in under the eyes. It doesn't settle into any lines or cake up. Considering you can use this product all over the face, it is definitely a great drugstore deal.
  6. Cetaphil Derma Control Oil Control Moisturizer (SPF 30) - $17.49

SPF is incredibly important, especially here in South Florida. But, as many of you with oily skin might already know, finding a non-greasy SPF is a nightmare. While this product feels a bit thick at first, it absorbs into the skin leaving a matte finish. There is a bit of a "sunscreen smell" but it quickly goes away. If you are extra oily, definitely try this product.


7. L'Oreal Paris Ideal Moisture Sensitive Skin Day Lotion (SPF 25) - $9.99

If your skin is a bit more combination than oily, you might enjoy this moisturizer. It is very lightweight and absorbs quickly, but doesn't leave a completely matte finish. It just gives you soft skin and sun protection. I use this under the e.l.f. primer and never experience pilling.


8. Milani Eyeshadow Primer - $6.99

You might have a heard time finding this item in drugstores, probably because this is the latest primer being raved about in the blogosphere. But if you see it peeking out of the Milani display, make sure you grab one for yourself!

9. Glam Eyes Liquid Liner by Rimmel - $5.49

I love liquid liner, mostly because I have yet to find a pencil liner that really stays on and gel liner always requires a brush. One of my favorite liners is Kat Von D's Tattoo Liquid Liner. That stuff is indelible once it dries. However, this post is all about saving some money, right? This Rimmel liner features a small brush tip that allows for a precise line. The liquid is a very dark black (perfect for vintage  looks) and you can feel it setting. Unless you rub the heck out of your eyes, this liner is not going anywhere.

10. Coty AirSpun Loose Powder - $7.49

This powder has been around for ages. The original comes with that floral, powdery smell of your grandmother's beauty products. There is also a sensitive skin version of the powder. Either way, this is a popular powder amongst performers and those that wear heavier makeup. Of course, you can still benefit from this powder by using a fluffy powder brush to set your foundation. For a heavier application, use the puff that comes with the product.


What are some of your best tips and products for dealing with oily skin?

Drugstore Skincare Reviews: L'Oreal Hydrafresh Toner

I was convinced that toner didn't really do anything for my skin. I figured it was just an extra step that I didn't need, since I had the negative belief my skin would always be a hot mess. As a teen my skin was very oily and acne-prone. One positive to getting older is that my skin has calmed down a bit. While it still gets oily, it can now get dry as easily as the shine used to break through just a few hours after applying my makeup.  I briefly used Shiseido's Balancing Toner from their amazing Pureness line, but I couldn't see much of a change in my skin. I continued to read about the importance of toners (removing trace amounts of makeup and dead skin cells, helping with the appearance of pores, balancing the skin, etc.) so I decided to give it another try and add toner into my skincare routine. 

I've wanted to cut down on spending, so I wanted to find a drugstore skincare product I could use. I usually advocate avoiding drugstores for skincare, only because I have mostly had negative experiences with those products. However, since I never found ANY toner that worked, I decided to give L'Oreal's HydraFresh Toner a try.

Here are the product claims from the L'Oreal website:

"HydraFresh Toner’s gentle, nondrying formula refreshes and softens skin in a splash, revealing a smoother, brighter complexion and leaving skin smooth and supple.

• Beta Hydroxy Acid gently sweeps away dull, tired skin while Pro-Vitamin B5 helps protect against moisture loss.
• 99% alcohol free.
• Dermatologist tested for gentleness."

The keywords that made me pick up that bottle? "99% Alcohol Free", "Beta Hydroxy Acid", and "Pro-Vitamin B5". Those are all great ingredients for the skin.

I have to say I will be repurchasing this product. I honestly feel it keeps my skin balanced and I do see less redness. Pores are a major problem for me, and I have seen a slight improvement in the appearance of pores and the texture of my skin. Good price, good product, win win!

L'Oreal HydraFresh Toner retails for around $7 USD, but you can find it cheaper.

Do you believe a toner is worth using? Have you seen a difference in your skin?