Everything is illuminated

Have you ever woke up tired and not your best? I am not talking about just when you spent the night out prior partying like you were 21, but also the times that you watched a sad movie and may have cried. Or how about the time that you didn't drink enough water and woke up crazy puffy? I could go on and on, but the end result is your complexion is pale, your eyes look sad and you can't fathom how you are going to take you meeting today looking this way. I have been there, bought the t-shirt and then tried to return it because I bought a size too small trying to fool myself into the dream size. As a result I have found two quick and super easy solutions that can give an instant shine and boost to your face and to your day. This one was a hard one to try and decide on since both have the same overall effect, but are not the same type of product. I can't pick a favorite so I have both on hand depending on what I need.

The first one up is the Smashbox Photo Finish Luminizing and seriously the first time I tried it I think I did it wrong. It didn't seem like it did anything to my face, but like the beauty trooper I am I kept going and second time was a charm. It was so awesome that once I saw the change from my sallow complexion to ahhhhhhhmazing that I had to admit to Nordstrom on twitter that they were right (it was their recommendation). I tell you the mother ship is never wrong. I just need to do it right! Since this is a primer it goes on prior to the foundation, powder or whatever other items you are using and you just want to make sure to blend it well and only use a little. I have found that it helps conceal minor imperfections and gives you a bit of a glow without looking like your got hit with stripper dust, so good for day and night and age appropriate. The bonus to this one is the fact that this is also a primer it can help keep your make-up on longer and can reduce the appearance of pores and fine lines, so you get a two in one. The one recommendation would be if you purchase this, get the travel size. Since you apply such a small amount this will last you a long time and there are some reviews about the standard size turning runny.

Next is NARS Orgasm Illuminator. Besides it's cheeky name it is actually a lovely addition to my arsenal of beauty. This one is not a primer, but more of an enhancer illuminizer that goes on top of your make-up.  This has a little bit more versatility in the sense you can apply it before going out the door and add it when doing a touch up to your make-up during the day or before you go out at night. I suggest starting out with just a little and then add a little more until you have the look you want to achieve. It is easily put in your purse and off you go. Both products in the tube/bottle have such a dark color that it can seem intimidating, but trust me the both go on sheer, as long as you don't use half the bottle in one use!

Both products can be found at a department store or Sephora. I received both of these as samples before purchasing the product and I suggest going to a department store near you to test these out before purchasing as well. Hitting the make-up counter and checking out new and fun products is a great rainy day activity. Also, I know a lot of department stores have beauty events that are fun to attend and usually offer some great deals on products.

Happy Monday!