Last week I realized it was time to replenish my Secret Brightening Powder by Laura Mercier.  I also wanted a happier blush color.

 

In order to avoid the crazy chaos of Christmas traffic and shoppers at the mall, I decided to order my make-up on-line.

 

It turns out Secret Brightening Powder is not a secret and neither is the blush I wanted because both were out of stock and no where to be found for quick delivery.

 

I researched other options with the hope that I would discover products that were equally as great and maybe even miraculous.  I read wonderful reviews about NARS Translucent Crystal Light Reflecting Powder and I did an on-line color comparison between the Laura Mercier blush color I wanted and MACs Petal Power, doesn’t that name sound fresh and lovely?!

 

I am fair skinned.  I thought the translucent powder would be Translucent, not chalk white.  On my computer screen, the Petal Power blush looked like a soft coral/pink, the way I imagine my cheeks should glow after a brisk walk on a crisp day.

 

I ordered my new finds and rushed the delivery so I would be beautiful for my two nights out over the weekend.  The first night, no one took pictures and no one told me I looked like a raccoon with rosacea.  I even told my friend (who is a hair stylist) about my fabulous make-up techniques!

 

Two days later, I spent the day with three girlfriends and we took pictures.  I realize that a flash can emphasize (especially unblended) powder and reflect sunscreen, but hello?!  If anything, a flash should wash a face out, so how ’bout that blush?!  This is how NOT to do your make-up!

3 Tips for saving face:

1. Blend, blend, blend, blend!

2. Spend more than 2 or 3 minutes on your face before going out and don’t wait until the last second!

3. Purchase new make-up colors and products in the store, as opposed to on-line, where you can see them and try them!