Monroe Misfit Makeup | Beauty Blog: August 2017

August 31, 2017

Colleen Rothschild Best Sellers Skincare Routine

This post has been sponsored by the PRIMP Network. All opinions are my own.

When the seasons change so does my skincare routine. While the steps in my routine stay the same, I love doing a full revamp and overhaul of my products. I have always been extremely dilligent and consistent with my skincare routine, but I have never been faithful to only one brand. My products have always been made up of a hodge podge of drugstore to high end. When I was given the chance to try out some of the best sellers from Colleen Rothschild I knew this was my opportunity to delve in to a brand exclusive skincare routine.


About Colleen Rothschild: What sets our brand apart from others is Colleen. Colleen spend 20+ years behind the scenes in skincare manufacturing, creating products for other well-known brands, before stepping out and launching this line. So she had decades of expertise on ingredients that stand the test of time, and she knows when something is just a passing trend. Our products are a blend of potent plant botanicals and advanced scientific ingredients from around the world.

Colleen Rothschild Skincare is formulated with Level E3, an exclusive technology that helps key ingredients work harder and smarter.


The DISCOVERY COLLECTION is the perfect way to become acquainted with the brand. It’s a 7-piece kit filled with must-have skincare products all conveniently tucked into a travel ready bag. It’s everything you need for life on the go.


CONTAINS TRAVEL SIZES OF: Radiant Cleansing Balm, 30 ml (1 fl oz) 1 Muslin Cleansing Cloth Dual Enzyme Polish, 15 ml (0.5 fl oz) Clarifying Detox Mask, 15 ml (0.5 fl oz) Sheer Renewal Cream, 30 ml (1 fl oz) Extreme Recovery Cream, 30 ml (1 fl oz) Face Oil N°9, 4 ml (0.14 fl oz) Exclusive CR Travel Bag

I love when brands do "minis" of their full size products. I think it says a lot about the confidence they have in their products. This set covered all of the bases for my Combination Skin needs. What's great about Colleen's skincare though is that it's made for every skin type.

The comprehensive Radiant Cleansing Balm clears congested pores and removes impurities while dissolving all traces of makeup, leaving skin balanced, soft, and radiant.

A unique blend of Loofah Seed and Moringa Oil improve the skin's integrity by renewing the outer-layer of cells while restoring the skin's flexibility and equilibrium. With continued daily use, skin becomes velvety smooth and more luminous.


The Radiant Cleansing Balm is one of the most buzzed about products in the line so I couldn't wait to try it out. The balm has a thick buttery texture and smells amazing! Like cinnamon with a fresh herbal finish. The solid balm transforms in to a silky liquid when applied.

Normally I take my makeup off with a makeup remover wipe but I am hooked on this balm now. It completely removes all traces my my makeup, including stubborn mascara, and feels luxurious while doing so. The hot muslin cloth application makes cleansing feel like a spa experience instead of a daily chore. I will absolutely be purchasing the full size!


For exfoliators, the Dual Enzyme Polish gently but efficiently sloughs dull skin cells, leaving your skin feeling softy and refreshed. Microspheres blended with a fruit enzyme and AHA cocktail provide deep exfoliation. Comfrey extract and Argan oil regulate and rebalance overly stressed skin. Fruit enzyme exfoliators are my preferred polishers. This scrub leaves my skin feeling super soft and radiant after after I use it. It smells wonderful too, I can only compare the scent to that fresh mango tropical breeze scent that Island hotels use in their samples. I love that scent!


For mosturizers this kit gives you three sample sizes of the Sheer Renewal Cream, Extreme Recovery Cream, and Face Oil N°9.

Sheer Renewal Cream is wonderful as a daily moisturizer for my combination skin. It feels weightless under makeup and dries to a powder finish. It's almost like an oil-control primer and powder in one. I notice when I use this moisturizer my skin becomes less oily throughout the day.

The Extreme Recovery Cream provides maximum levels of continuous moisture while strengthening the hydro-lipid barrier. Next-generation ingredients fight signs of fine lines and wrinkles while evening out skin tone and texture.

Extreme Recovery Cream is a night cream that I would reccomend for dry or mature skin. Anti-aging is my main skincare focus these days so I appreciate the anti-aging ingredients like Matrixyl® synthe'6® to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and Hyalauronic Acid for hydration. I know this moisturizer will keep my dry skin at bay once there's a chill in the air.


The ultimate in skin luxury, Face Oil N°9 combines nine transformative oils that provide an intense moisture boost, deeply nourish thirsty skin, and leave your complexion radiant after the first application. The active combination of precious oils and vitamins offers protection from oxidative stress that results in the appearance of spots and wrinkles. This formula also improves the skin's moisture barrier for enhanced cellular function and hydration, leaving no greasy residue.

Because the Extreme Recovery Cream is more of a Winter moisturizer for me, I have been using the Face Oil N°9 as my nightly moisturizer. I love oils, sometimes I will for-go regular moisturizers and just use a serum or oil. I apply 3-4 drops nightly, it sinks in to the skin and leaves my skin feeling hydrated and glowy not greasy. It contains Black Seed Oil for antioxidant protection, Moringa Oil to restore luminosity, Marula Oil  to balance the complexion, and Omega 3, 6 &9 for intense moisturization. It also has that same warm enticing scent as the Cleansing Balm.


Over the past few months I have been trying to fade some dark spots and freckles from sun exposure on my cheeks. I have tried so many products with very little success. Instead of looking for another hydroquinoine product, which I really don't like the idea of using, I decided to give Colleen's Mandelic Acid Radiance Serum a go.

Mandelic Acid Radiance Serum is formulated to gently exfoliate, dissolve and breakdown the tiny bonds between dull dead skin cells that sit on the skin’s surface. Over time, a brighter and more radiant complexion is unveiled. I have been rotating this with the Face Oil no.9. Within one week I noticed my skin looking brighter with slight fading of my sun spots. I am excited about this product and hopeful that it will fade those stubborn darks spots over time.


I had completely given up on using eye creams because they were alwys too heavy and broke me out or irritated my sensitive eyes. Needless to say I am always on the hunt for a new one. The Complete Eye Cream addresses the signs of fine lines, reduces the appearance of under-eye darkness and restores elasticity.


So far so good with this eye cream! It's lightweight, hydrates beautifully, and doesn't irritate my eyes. I am crossing my fingers that this will be the one and only eye cream to stay in my skincare routine. I also love Colleen's tip of taking the extra and appyling to your smile lines.


Being the skin mask junkie that I am I bought the full size of the Clarifying Detox Mask with out even trying the sample!

Skin will breathe a sigh of relief as the Clarifying Detox Mask removes trapped dirt and debris. Activated charcoal and French Kaolin clay go straight to work detoxing pores and leaving behind a more balanced complexion, while pure micronized silver helps keep bacteria at bay. A blend of Vitamin C and Willowherb extract brighten and soothe inflamed skin.


I do not regret blindly buying the full size of this mask because it has become a weekly appearance on my face. It detoxes the skin, pulling out all of the yuck from deep inside your pores while soothing and balancing the skin. This mask feels so refreshing, it has a cooling effect that lasts until after you wash it off. It's so refreshing.

The final step in my skincare routine is a beauty water. I have been buying the Evian Water for years so I was excited to have a new option. The Multi-purpose Beauty Water from Colleen Rothschild delivers immediate and long-term hydration by preserving optimal H20 balance, eliminating trans-epidermal water loss and boosting hydration under moisturizers. This pick-me-up for dehydrated, tight, uncomfortable skin cools and calms, sets and refreshes makeup and leaves your complexion with a healthy glow.

I spritz this misting water on throughout the day for a pick me up or when I have over powdered my face. Frivolous? Yes, but I don't care it just feels wonderful! Beauty Water isn't just spray water in a bottle though. It contains Coconut Water for hydration, Hyaluronic Acid to plump the skin, Cucumber Extract to tone and soften, andAcquaCellTM to give you an extra moisture boost. If you have dry skin, definitely give this a try! It gives your skin the prettiest dewy glow.


Having my skincare Fall "wardrobe" complete makes me less sad to say goodbye to Summer and ready for Fall. It also makes me feel like a grownup having a one brand for all skincare routine. Even though that might not be feasable forever, I know I will be keeping many of Colleen Rothchild's products in my skincare routine for the long run. My two must-haves: The Cleansing Balm & Detox Mask.

 Check out how my fellow bloggers beyondbeautylounge and katelovesmakeup are getting on with Colleen Rothschild skincare!

Also, be sure to grab the 20% off code below to save on your Colleen Rothschild purchase! This code will expire one week from this post so be sure to act fast!


Get 20% off using code CRSKin20 
(Valid on all regular-priced items - Expires 9/30)
Have you tried Colleen Rothschild skincare? Which items are your favorite?

August 28, 2017

CARGO Swimmables™ Longwear Eyeshadow Sticks Review & Swatches


CARGO is saving our face this Summer with their Swimmables™ Water Resistant Makeup lineup. With temperatures hitting the the 80-90's range on most days the last two months I have been trying to figure out how to keep my makeup from melting off of my face! CARGO Swimmables Longwear Eyeshadow Sticks have been my eyeliner and cream shadow of choice. Lightweight, crease-proof, and water-resistant they let you create beautiful eye looks that stay put!

These cream formula shadow sticks glide on smoothly for a flawless finish and lock into place for a long-lasting look. I am all about quick and easy makeup in the Summer and these give a beautiful color and shimmer. The hassle of having to blend or get out an eyeshadow palette to create a look seems like too much work when it comes to Summer makeup. I love being able to create easy, effortless lookg while still looking like I tried and these do that - just swipe and go!


Most cream shadow stick's come in a stick form that you have to sharpen. CARGO Swimmables are great because they are a twist up stick formula. I really loved the way they packaged these because they don't dry out as easily and look real chic too. They are also great for travel!

Morro Bay, Paradise Bay, Palm Bay, Hudson Bay

Swimmables Longwear Eyeshadow sticks let you layer to intensity. Apply lightly for a sheer wash of color or layer to intensify. You'll have to work quick though! Once applied the formula has 20 seconds of play time to be blended out before it sets. The color stays true all day - it only comes off when you take it off! These have serious staying power. They are budge-proof, smudge-proof, beach-proof!

There are 8 stunning shades of CARGO Swimmables™ Longwear Eyeshadow Sticks.


I have been loving these pretty little sticks all Summer and the shade range will easily take you in to Fall. They make a wonderful eyeshadow base, look fantastic on their own, and you can swim in them! How many overshadows can you do that with?


*pr sample * affiliate links

August 18, 2017

BOXYCHARM takes us to the Beach Please

For August the BOXYCHARM theme is Beach Please, they are totally reading my mind right now. If jetting off to a sandy beach is not an option right now, BoxyCharm at least has us covered with one last beachy makeup lookf for Summer. Last months box was pretty much the best ever, so lets see if they can keep it going this month! ..Spoiler! There is a full size Tarte eyeshadow palette in here. Yep, they brought it again.

BoxyCharm is a subscription box where for $21 mo. they send you 4-5 full size beauty products. Shipping is always free. It's basically the last remaining awesome beauty box worth subscribing to.

Moda Pro 3- Piece Brush Set ($26)
The Moda Pro 3-piece brush set features a pointed blush, chisel blender, and a crease brush. Royal & Langnickel is a line of brushes I have been wanting to try for awhile now so I was happy to get this set. They are super soft! I like that this is a variety of brushes that will actually be useful and not another fan brush.

Bellapierre Waterproof Gel-Eyeliner Ebony ($15)
Creamy, waterproof eyeliner for true definition that lasts all day. This liner glides on smoothly and is formulated with pure minerals, natural waxes, and antioxidants - making them hypoallergenic and safe for all skin types. Having sensitive eyes I appreciate that! This is a nice basic black liner. It glides on easily and can be smudged out. You can't really go wrong with a good black eyeliner so I like when they include these. I always have a back up or one to pass along to a friend if I don't use it for myself.


PUR Pro Eyelashes ($14)
PUR's 3D lashes are handcrafted with the finest luxury silk to provide ultra-lightweight natural looking, fuller lashes. I had no idea PUR made lashes! These look so naturally pretty and voluminous. They also claim you can get 30 wears out of them. That would be pretty amazing!

#GRLPWR Liquid Lipstick ($14.95)
An intensely pigmented liquid lipstick that is life-proof with serious staying power. Okay, so BoxyCharm had to get in ONE instagram photoshopped makeup product in here, but I forgive them because the rest of the box is fantastic. I am not a fan of these terribly drying liquid lipsticks in another basic terracotta mauve shade, but here's another one.

Last but definitely not least...

TARTE Rainforest of the Sea Volume II Palette ($36)
Rainforest of the Sea Vol. II is a crease-free eyeshadow palette with the best-selling creamy powder formula in eight, cool-toned shades.


I am so excited about this palette! Cool-toned shimmering neutrals are my jam. The packaging is beautiful and I love that it's a great size for traveling. Tarte makes such pretty eyeshadows but I often have trouble with their clay formula. I have worn the Rainforest by the Sea II palette every day since it arrived with zero problems. I am so happy this doesn't irritate my sensitive eyes like the other tarte shadows because this palette is gorgeous. These shades will easily take you in to Fall.


Obviously that Tarte palette straight made this months BOXYCHARM. I enjoyed that everything in this box put together makes a complete makeup look. I can't wait to see what September has in store!


*sample *affiliate links

August 10, 2017

Urban Decay Pink is Punk VICE Lipstick Review & Swatches


The HEAT Collection got all of the hype this Summer, but Urban Decay is also turned it up with Pink Is Punk. 10 must-have pink shades of VICE Lipstick. I pretty much always have UD's VICE lipstick on my lips, there just isn't a better lipstick formula or shade range. Make it soft make it loud, I am all about pretty pink lips. Being a cool-toned girl pink is more my go-to than the warm stuff. So let's see how UD rocks out the pink lips!

Urban Decay VICE Lipstick ($17)
Prepare to get hooked. Vice Lipstick comes in a massive lineup of 100 addictive shades and six indulgent finishes—our biggest lineup yet! Our shade range has it all: Bold brights. Dark, sexy shades. Super-versatile neutrals. With so much variety it’ll make your head spin, there’s something for everyone—from new shades to cult favorites you thought you’d never see again.


Vice Lipstick comes in a modernized, luxed-up version of our original lipstick case that looked like a shotgun shell. The faceted gunmetal case has a gold base and debossed lettering. There's a shade-matched label (including the shade name and finish) to make it easy to find the right color within the depths of your bag.

Big Bang, Crank, Firebird, Jilted, Frenemy, Obsessed, PDA, Menace, Phone Call, Psycho


Available in 6 different finishes:
MEGA MATTE: super-intense matte
COMFORT MATTE: our creamiest matte
CREAM: the original: creamy, badass luxury
METALLIZED: cream with a high level of pearl
SHEER: a punch of color with a sheer, shiny finish
SHEER SHIMMER: slightly transparent finish with floating pearl and a smooth texture 


The pigment load in Vice Lipstick is insane! Just one swipe provides an unbelievable laydown of color. And every shade applies smoothly (without dragging or skipping), hugs lips, and feels amazing! The proprietary Pigment Infusion System™ gives the formula its super-creamy texture, rich payout and superior color dispersion. This creamy formula is loaded with nourishing ingredients.

Big Bang, Crank, Firebird, Jilted, Frenemy, Obsessed

PDA, Menace, Phone Call, Psycho

UD VICE does Pink like a PRO. These are some gorgeous shades! My favorite's are PDA a medium cream pink that is the perfect everyday color to liven up the face. On the bolder side is Menace, a super intense deep fuschia and for Summer I am loving Phone Call. The sheer coral pink lets you tip toe on brights without looking overdone. PSYCHO rounds out my top pinks, the bright rose with blue irridecent micro-sparkle is stunning.


 #lipstickismyvice #UrbanDecay

Urban Decay Pink is Punk and the whole VICE Lipstick collection is available  ($17) at UrbanDecay. com, SEPHORA, Ulta, Nordstrom

*sample *purchased
*affiliate links