the Balm Cosmetics - Mary-Lou Manizer Highlighter

I have been wanting this highlighter for some time now and I finally got it!  With a Nordy's Note too, so no money spent!  The powder highlighters I have are too shimmery/glittery.  I don't know how I rocked that, but it goes to show the ever changing an evolving likes and style.  This one is soft in shimmer that it just perks up your face with an inner light.

The swatch on my fingers look super bright!

But blended into my skin, it just shows a nice sheen.  I add this above my blush on my cheek bones, a little bit on my forehead, a little line down my nose, a dab on my cupid's bow and on my chin.  I use a really light hand and my Real Techniques Setting brush.

Cost: $24 @ Nordstom

Pros:
-Light shimmer and buildable finish
-Paraben free
-Compact case with a mirror

Cons:
-Pricey

Would I recommend this to a friend?  YES!  I love it and it has become something I use on a weekly basis.  I haven't found any drugstore brand highlighters that weren't too shimmery or glittery and am open to suggestions!

The Balm: Holiday In Balm Beach

Another one of those great Marshall's finds! I can't remember how much I snagged this for, but definitely not the full retail price of $21! Of course I grabbed one for Ms. B too! A little staycation adventure in make up.

Here's what is included

Shadow, blush, bronzer & lipgloss tucked into this cute "book" that has a mirror on one side.

Clever how they incorporated the names of the shadow, blush & bronzer in the text of the "book.

Swatches of the gloss and shadow. I love how vibrant the gloss is. The shadow, blush and bronzer are quite sheer which is great for summer looks.

I have seen these palettes, but never had the desire to pick one up mainly because of the price. I don't think I would purchase any other the Balm palettes because #1 the cost and #2 I don't see a lot of practicality in such a small amount of product. While it is cute and possibly handy to have in a travel make up bag, there is a bit of bulk with the packaging. If this palette is something you would be interested in, I found it on Nonpareil Boutique for $17. I have seen some mini series of these palettes that came out in a set at Costco last year. That's something I would look into purchasing for Christmas prezzies!