2010 Beauty Favorites


Here are my favorites for 2010! I encourage you to copy and paste this list and share your yearly favorites, too! Kind of a tag post, I guess?

The items marked with - mean it is a type of product that I do not use, not that I could not pick a favorite. Some I had to pick two products because I went back and forth between the two of them all year. Warning, my list is pretty MAC heavy.

These are all products I use at least weekly (some daily.) I have repurchased most of these or I will in the future. I have recommended them to friends and family, and I recommend them to you.

Body
Bath Product: LUSH Christmas Eve Bubble Bar & LUSH Sex Bomb Bath Bomb
Body Exfoliator: -
Body Lotion: Olay Quench
Cuticle Cream: -
Fake Tanner: -
Foot Cream: Shea it isn't So
Hand Cream: -
Perfume: Stella by Stella McCartney
Shower Gel: Softsoap Nutriserums
Soap: Dial
Teeth Whitening - Crest 3D White Advanced Seal

Haircare
Conditioner: Pantene Brunette
Electrical: Clairol Hot Rollers
Hair Dye: -
Hairspray: TRESemme
Mask: Joico K-Pak Hydrator
Miracle Product: -
Shampoo: Pantene Brunette & LUSH Big

Makeup
Blush: NARS Deep Throat & Clinique Fig
Bronzer: MAC Mineralized Skin Finish
Brush: MAC 239
Concealer: MAC Select Cover Up
Eyebrows: MAC Espresso & Model in a Bottle Eyebrow Sealer
Eyelash Curler: -
Eyeliner: MAC Technakohl in Graph Black & MAC Fluidline in Blacktrack
Eyeshadow: MAC All that Glitters & MAC Bronze
Eyeshadow Primer/Base: Urban Decay Primer Potion/MAC Indianwood Paint Pot
Foundation: -
Highlight: NYX Pearl Mania in Nude Pearl & Revlon Skinlights Face Illuminator Loose Powder
Lipgloss: MAC Love Nectar Lustreglass
Lipstick: MAC Viva Glam V
Mascara: L'Oreal Telescopic & Clinique High Definition
Nail polish: OPI Black Onyx & Sephora by OPI Sample Sale
Powder: -
Tool: -
Top Coat Polish: Barry M 3 in 1

High-end Brand: MAC
Drugstore Brand: L'Oreal

Skincare
Exfoliator: LUSH Ocean Salt
Eye Product: Clean & Clear Morning Morning Glow Eye Brightener
Cleanser/Makeup Remover: MAC Cleanse Off Oil
Facial mask: Freeman Cucumber Peel
Lip Treatment: LUSH Mint Julips & Chapstick Medicated
Moisturizer: Clean & Clear Morning Glow
Toner: -

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November Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

Monthly favorite posts and videos are my favorites to read/watch! Happy 25 Days of Christmas! I will hopefully get a wishlist and decorations posted soon. On to the favorites for November...


ELF Studio Brush Set - I found a half off code, so 11 brushes and a case for only $15.  Not to mention, they're pretty! (I got the limited edition glitter ones.)  I purchased a few of these individually already, a few broke,  others I wanted two in because I'm tired of cleaning them constantly.  They're good, not the best quality, but who can spend a ridiculous amount of money to purchase all the MAC brushes you need?

ELF Complexion Perfection - I hate wearing foundation and powder.  In the winter, I'm faced with a lot of redness, this tones it down greatly.  It's great for spot treatment or just dusting it all over your face.

ELF Shimmer Pencil Eyeliner in Gunmetal - Originally, it was a little darker than I wanted it to be, but I found myself wearing this and MAC silver ring to school, often this month. It is a pretty dark gray silver with flecks of silver glitter.

Gigi's Brazilian Shave Gel - No bumps or redness left behind, doesn't dry my skin out either... which always happens with shaving creams and gels.

MAC Satin Taupe Eyeshadow - this has been on my wishlist forever, I finally purchased it. I used to wear bronze every day, but now since I'm a little paler, I have been reaching for this instead.

 OPI The Show Must Go On - I want all of the burlesque colors! hah. I couldn't decide which one(s) I wanted most, so I just purchased the mini set, and this was my favorite out of the four.

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Review: Scent Genie*





Say good-bye to broken glass, over-priced rollerballs, and perfume minis, as well as perfume bottles taking up so much space when you travel.

The product is genius. Best of all, it is so compact yet durable.  Not to mention it is user-friendly, glass free, environment friendly, and aircraft approved.




How to Use:





...easy enough!

I have been keeping this in my purse for mornings when I forget to put on perfume or for afternoon touch-ups.  I will definitely be taking only this with me when I start traveling again.


It has its advantages of rollerballs, you can spray anywhere, and the scent seems a little stronger, too.  The main thing is its size, it is about 1/4 smaller than my roller ball.  Plus, It has a light mist (rather than a hard, concentrated spray. like most travel bottles.)


Again, it has a compact size. It can easily fit in a small makeup/travel bag, or a small evening clutch.  Think the size of a compact tampon or lipstick.

The Scent Genie comes in many different varieties:
-4mL All Aluminum, Rounded (50 Sprays) $11  (Only $9.35 with promotion code below!) - Pink, Black, Gold, and Silver (Red is currently out of stock.)
-5mL Clear Plastic Body and Aluminum Cap, Rounded (65 Sprays) $7  - Blue and Black
-5mL Clear Plastic Body and Aluminum Cap, Lip Gloss Shape (65 Sprays) $7  - Pink

Unfortunately, the Scent Genie will not hit stores until 2011.  The would definitely make great gifts or stocking stuffers, you can purchase it online (click here) PROMOTION COUPON CODE: Enter Code KM111510 at Checkout and receive 15% off! (At the moment, the code only seems to available on the single aluminum option.)

UPDATE: JANUARY 22, 2011
I realize a lot of traffic comes to this post searching for reviews, promotional codes, and where to buy.  The code above is no longer working, I contacted the company a few days ago and no reply.  You can purchase the clear/plastic one online.  There's a pink aluminum one now at Sephora.  I have seen a similar product (different brand) at most drugstores.  You can also enter my current giveaway (sidebar) to win a Black aluminum Scent Genie among other prizes (ends February 9.)


For anyone on-the-go/travelers or just perfume lovers, this is a must have!

Disclaimer: The Scent Genies were sent to me for free; all opinions are my own and completely honest.


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October Updates and Favorites

UPDATES:
Room Makeover

Out of boredom, birthday money burning a hole in my pocket, and realizing I will not be moving out until next fall, I decided it was time for a room makeover.  I have had the same bedroom theme and decor for almost six years.. (middle school, 7th grade.) A change has been long overdue. I went from a cluttered and busy yellow and pink theme to a clean and relaxing red and black one.  I spent a little over a hundred dollars total (my walls and furniture are white so they can go with anything.)  A new bedding set and curtains were the "big money" items.  A few things just needed to be covered with fabric or black spray paint.  Then, I ran to local dollar stores and raided my craft box.  I failed to take before and after pictures.  Here is a stock photo of the new bedding...


Also, here are my DIY items I am most proud of... they all came from a dollar store yet they do not look like it with some ribbon and jewels.  Storage Bins and Makeup Holders. TIP: Use rice instead of bead-filler in your makeup holder.



Embracing Paleness
I have been "fake baking" for the past six years, usually every October-March (sometimes longer.)  I have to decided to give my skin a rest.  Seeing a pale reflection and pictures is taking some getting used to!


FOTD: using a few of this month's favorites*: MAC Eyeshadow Honesty & Bronze, MAC Technakohl Graphblack Eyeliner, L'Oreal Carbon Black Telescopic Mascara*, NYX Ultra Pearl Mania Nude Pigment*, Clinique Blush in Big, Wet'n'Wild Lipstick in Smokin' Hot Pink*.


Watching a New Show
Everyone always raved about One Tree Hill (season 8 is now airing) but I did not want to dive into it without watching them.  I watched the first few episodes (season 1) one Saturday morning on Soap Net about a month ago and decided it was worth a watch.  Luckily, I got to borrow them from someone local.  I am only on season 4 now, it is a good show, but I am not hooked.  (Gossip Girl Season 1:  i stayed up for 48 hours and watched the entire box.)  I am sure One Tree Hill will get better with time.  I like it, but has not made my top 4 TV shows (yet?)



October Favorites
"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

I recently realized I sold all of my larger purses on eBay, leaving me only with hipsters/cross-body bags.  For school, I like larger bags, so I splurged a bit and got my second Coach Purse.  (Coach OP Art Chainlink Maggie #14420) I love it!  It is pretty bag and has tons of compartments, so I can easily find anything I need.


Because of the room makeover and new purse, I stayed away from shopping for beauty products.  Most of these are rediscovered items.


Bath and Body Works Aromatherapy Sleep  Pillow Mist in Lavender and Camille - I had problems sleeping, my mind just would not shut off at night.  I was taking some over-the-counter "natural" sleep enhancements, not a good idea, led to breakouts and vivid dreams. I was looking for a healthier option and found this.  I can not decide if it is a mental thing or it really does work, either way, I sleep like a baby now and want to check out the other items from this line.

Moroccan Oil Hair Oil - This has been on my want list for some odd number of months.  There are plenty of positive reviews out there, I agree with them.  It is a bit pricey, yes. (The bigger bottle is a better deal.)  I have a head full of long, thick, hair and only need less than a dime size.  I have used it every 3-5 days this month and have only used 1/8 of it.  Immediately after applying (to dry hair) I can tell a difference.. more shine, less frizz.  It smells good, too.

OPI Black Onyx - Just a creamy, somewhat shiny, black.  I don't know if I was in the Halloween, rock chick mode, or what, but I kept reapplying this all month.

Physician's Formula Gentle Cover Concealer - I received a sample of this forever ago.  I was looking for a good corrector concealer palette, then settled for this instead.  I hate concealer and foundation all together and usually, I do not wear it unless I have to.  It is getting colder, that means redness around my nose, it kind of gets chapped I guess.  (I am not sure, I will have to do some research on it!)  Anyway, instead of layering on the concealer, using a corrector is a really good idea.


Wet 'n' Wild Smokin' Hot Pink (905DP) Lipstick - I am loving the Fuschia lip trend. (Not that I can pull it off.) I picked this up for .99 cents, not the greatest formula... it definitely needs a primer before.  It is a really pretty color.


LUSH Christmas Eve Bubble Bar - it's back!! I purchased it as soon as it was at my counter and have been letting it smell up my room.  This is definitely my favorite Christmas product, maybe even it all time (it ties with sex bomb!)  The scent is really girly: jasmine and ying-yang.,, quite floral-y and perfumey.  It is a relaxing scent as well.  (Which is the point of the bubble bar..  to make little kids fall asleep on Christmas Eve.)  Here is a demo... (starting at 1:15) However, I would suggest crumbling half of it under running water instead.




L'Oreal Carbon Black Telescopic Mascara - I have always been into high-end mascaras, for whatever reason I picked this one up awhile back, rediscovered it and it is all ever grab anymore. (2 coats)


NYX Ultra Pearl Mania - Nude Pigment (001) - (Repotted in the picture, the original jar is way too tiny.)  A perfect highlight (under brow on cheeks) now that I am a bit paler...



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LUSH Haul & BB Seaweed Review*

First off, let me inform you all, LUSH Holiday Collection 2010 is here.  LUSH put the items up for sale on October 1 (on the website.)  I am not positive when the line hits stores.  I did my online shopping, got to check out and realized 80% of the items had an M (for may melt) beside them, so I decided to wait until I can safely purchase the items at the store!

My LUSH stash was running low, in the mean time I picked up all of these... This looks pretty massive, but technically I didn't spend too much.  I share a bathroom with my sisters, so they often get their hands on all of this too.  A few Saturdays ago LUSH was having a promotion party to come see all of the "new" bath bombs. (The 4 that were released in the UK midsummer, obviously they're not new after I've been admiring them through UK blogs.)  If you RSVP'ed you received a Free Vanilla Fountain Bath Bomb, and with a purchase of $35 or more, you also got a free Sex Bomb Bath Bomb. Plus, I had 5 empty pots, so I got to pick up a free face mask too! I really racked up on the free stuff this trip to LUSH.


Purchases
The Comforter Bubble Bar (2) - This and Christmas Eve ties for my favorite Bubble Bar, this is definitely my sisters too.  One will last anywhere between 4-8 baths.  We purchased two last Christmas and just now had to restock.
Flothy Gritter Bubble Bar - This is the only new one I have used and can actually review so far, I was always so turned off by this product... I thought it was just a glitter bomb, I would take a bath in it, then take a shower to get all the glitter off.  That is definitely not the case.
Keep it Fluffy Bath Bomb
Twilight Bath Bomb
Mrs. Whippy Bath Bomb

Freebies
BB Seaweed Fresh Face Mask
Fair Foot Trade Lotion Sample (2)
Sex Bomb Bath Bomb - One of my favorite LUSH items, I'm obsessed with the scent.  I have this just sitting in my room, for the time being
Vanilla Fountain Bath Bomb




Review: BB Seaweed Fresh Face Mask
I finally finished my cleansers and had enough empty pots.  (If you bring back 5 empty containers to LUSH, you get a free fresh face mask.) I did not know which mask I wanted, they're not online so I wasn't even positive what all was offered.  Right before I headed to LUSH, I read some reviews on makeupalley.com and BB Seaweed seemed to be the favorite, so I went with that.  I used Aquamarina Cleanser before and liked it, so I figured it may be somewhat similar with Seaweed being a key ingredient in both.


I put the mask on, waited about 15 minutes, and it dried almost completely clear, there were huge chunks of seaweed that I had to scrub off.  After finally getting the mask off my skin felt more aggravated from the seaweed than soothed and relaxed.

I have normal skin, a pimple here and there about once a month.  The morning after using this mask I had quite a few pimples.  I'm not sure if my skin was too aggravated or the mask is pulling all the imperfections out.  I still have a few blemishes now.

Overall, I'm not impressed with this one.  What mask do you recommend? 


At least my sister enjoyed it!



My local LUSH store has a Facebook, I entered a contest on the discussion, and actually won!  I received the 4 "new" bath bombs, 2 of these I purchased a week before.  I wanted to try out the other two, but I did not love the smell enough.


(even more)
Freebies
Dragon's Egg Bath Bomb
Fizzbanger Bath Bomb
Mrs. Whippy Bath Bomb
Twilight Bath Bomb


I cut all of these (except for Mrs. whippy) open because they're pretty big and could make two baths.  I didn't realize all of these were like a two-in-one deal, they all have another bath bomb color and scent both inside of them.  Twilight has the best and strongest smell.  Fizzbanger smells like Pez candy.  The other two are just okay.  Dragon's Egg had a gold treasure chest inside of it. too cute! hah.

Thanks, LUSH Oak Court!

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September Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

Happy October!  We're almost to the end of 2010.  Cooler weather is already here (I just hope it sticks around.)  I am beginning to find a new love for October, just because it kicks off all the holiday months.  I would like to say dressing up is fun too, but there is no Costume Party on the agenda yet!

October is also Breast Cancer Awareness month.  Wear your pink!  Purchase beauty items with the Pink Ribbon on them, a lot of companies are donating profits from certain items to the foundation.


On to the products, most of my favorites from previous months have remained: Model in a Bottle Eyebrow Sealer, MAC Viva Glam V Lipstick, and MAC Indianwood Paint Pot, so I will not rave about all of these again.

I rediscovered Chapstick Medicated, my lips are already awful and it's not even Winter yet.  This does the trick while it is on, it is not a miracle product; I am still searching!

I recently picked up Vampire Blood Pocket Bac Hand Sanitizer, but I already can not put it down.  I am including this in my September favorites because I have been to Bath and Body Works at least four times bugging the employees about when it would be in.  hah.  The bottle says Plum, it is more berry than anything, I am not positive how to describe the scent. Regardless, I will have extra germ-free hands.

I gave into the craze of the American Apparel Nail Polishes.  My go-to colors used to be Nude or Black, but I feel like now I have a halfway point with Grey.  American Apparel Factory Grey Nail Polish, the formula is good, a nice shiny, matte.  The staying power isn't that great, (maybe because I keep forgetting top coats?)  Still, I swear by OPI.


Finally, non-beauty related.  Liv Crayola Inkless Highlighters.  I picked these up at Target 2 pack for $1, for whatever reason, they were on sale.  (The whole line is overpriced, that is my guess.)  I was a little curious how an inkless highlighter could exist, I love Crayola, and the whole Liv Crayola Line looked really neat.  (Click Here)  It is a twist-up CRAYON, it has a wax finish just like a crayon, therefore, NO smudged ink, and it doesn't dry out.  The color is actually a little bit more vibrant than a regular highlighter.  I want more of these!  I am getting rid of all my other highlighters.

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Freshman School Supplies | What's in my School Bag?

Favorite things about school? Well, it was seeing friends and familiar faces. That was the case for high school, but now I'm a freshman in college and know practically no one. My next favorite is SCHOOL SUPPLIES.

This is kind of delayed, I know, this subject took over YouTube last month. Most of you are back in school, and the school supplies aisle has already been replaced with Halloween items. Better late than never? I've only been in school a week, I've finally got all the supplies I need, so I can share!

It drives me insane when girls carry a backpack and a purse; also when people carry everything in their arms and can't even open the door for themselves. (I've seen both this past week!) I have a nice LL Bean backpack still in good condition from like Junior High, but I wanted to be a little more fashionable...


My bag still hasn't arrived but I guess I can show off a stock photo anyway. It's from China, I'm a little worried about the quality; we'll see! It probably won't be here for another month but I wanted to go ahead and get this posted!


The bag I'm currently using. I like it, it just needs to be bigger! All it can fit is a small book, a binder, and my random misc stuff. It's from JCPenney. They also had a red plaid, and green. This one is actually black (my flash wouldn't cooperate!) Another dislike, it picks up so much dirt.


Spiral notebook, for one class that has 400 people, school agenda, and Five Star five subject notebook, that I'm not using, because I've received so many handouts and deciding to stick with binders.


2 one-inch Binders. One for MWF and one for TH. I purchased both of these at Office Depot. I believe they're designed by Wilson Jones.  I thought I was going to hopefully ditch binders and just use the Five Star notebook, but again, it's so much easier just to keep up with the notes and handouts, all in order with easy navigation, in one place.



Vera Bradley Pencil Pouch in Barcelona. Avery Notepad Labels. I'm seriously obsessed with these. (They made the cut for august favorites!) The whole paper is sticky, I've thrown out all post-it notes! Sharpie writing utensils are my favorite, they're the only pens I use anymore! All from Sharpie: highlighters, marker, and pens. I purchased the clickable kind this semester, but they don't write as good as the one with the lid. Favorite pencils... Papermate clear point mechanical pencils and lead. I'm on the search for good fun colored pens! (Sharpie, please make all colors!) Anyone have any brand suggestions for fun colored pens? I used RSVP before, they're okay. I picked up the Zebra colored pens, 6 for $3 at Office Depot, I don't care for them too much, they'll do for the semester.


And finally, all the random misc items.. (Also in my bag, not pictured, is my phone, keys, and wallet.) Water. Umbrella. Umbrellas last a good 3 rainstorms for me before they break; I need to invest in a good one. hah. Chapstick. Mints. Do not smack on gum and bug people around you. Hand Sanitizer. Water. Tissue. Vera Bradley hard eyeglass case in Barcelona, holding my glasses. Black Wayfarers.


Don't forget your overpriced textbooks!

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Drugstore Picks

We all get so wrapped up in the high-end cosmetics, there's some at your local drugstore too. Plus, not everyone can afford to go Sephora or to the counters at department stores. I went through my makeup drawer and pulled out all of the drugstore cosmetics. Sadly, this is all I own. (With the exception of some NYX products, but I don't think they're that wonderful for everyday use.) I've tried plenty of others, but I've swapped them on makeupalley.com or gave them to my little sister. These are the only ones I've kept around and repurchased...


Prices obviously vary depending on where you purchase them; target usually sells at the cheapest. The prices are kind of a guess (my memory and google) If I'm in the wrong ballpark, let me know!

Clean and Clear Morning Glow Eye Brightening Cream
$6 (Discontinued?)
This was discontinued, but it's not back on the clean and clear website in different packaging, so maybe it's back! If not, try amazon.com or ebay.com. I purchased my current tube on eBay.  I love all of the morning glow/burst products, I've tried them all. These are the only two I repurchase when I run out. This is the only eye brightening cream I've noticed that makes my green eyes even brighter. (I've only tried high-end samples.) It doesn't irritate my eyes either.

Clean and Clear Morning Glow Moisturizer Oil Free SPF 15
$6-$8
I love all of the morning glow/burst products, I've tried them all. These are the only two I repurchase when I run out. The smell is great, the formula is nice, oil-free, plus sunscreen!

ELF All Over Color Stick in Toasted
$1
I cannot tell you how many ELF products I've purchased, I've only kept about 10 (most are brushes) out of the 100. I do like this for the days I'm looking a little pale.. just swipe on your cheeks and blend with your fingertips.

ELF Waterproof Eyeliner Pen in Black
$1
I doubt this is waterline safe, I used it once and it hurt pretty bad. I do like this for going over False Lashes and filling in the lines/evening out gel liner.

Lip Smackers Lip Frosting in Birthday
$3
I'm obsessed with lipgloss. It's the only drugstore one I've repurchased over and over again. It's a nice shimmery pink color. But the scent, it's like having a birthday cake on your lips. (For the record, lick it, it tastes like nothing.)

Loreal Bare Natural All Over Mineral Glow in Nude Glow
$10-$14
I use this all over; mainly on my shoulders to catch the light for important events.

Loreal Telescopic Carbon Black Mascara
$7-$10
This is my Second Favorite Mascara! (Clinique High Definition comes in first place.) This does beat a lot of high-end mascaras in my book. I've been wearing this for the past month. Just two swipes for school or you can really layer it up for a night time look.

NYX Ultra Pearl Mania in Nude
$2
This is the only NYX product I love and use daily. Plus it's the only pigment/loose eyeshadow  I use often as well. It's great for a highlight anywhere on your face.

Revlon Skinlights Loose Powder Illuminator in Warm Light
$10 (Discontinued)
This was the first bronzer I ever owned years ago. It took me a good year or two to finish it. I recently repurchased on amazon.com. It gives a nice sweep of color with some shimmer. Great for night-outs!

Wet 'n' Wild Ultimate Expressions Eyeshadow Palette in Sand Castle
$5 (Discontinued)
Why this was discontinued, I have no clue. Why I shoved this to the back of my makeup drawer and started using only MAC eyeshadows, again, I have no clue. This was my daily palette until I felt the need to spend all of my money on MAC eyeshadows. (8 colors for $5 or 1 color for 14.50? What is wrong with me? lol.) These wet 'n' wild colors are just as pigmented and blend-able as MACs. Get your hands on this palette if you can! I wish I picked up more colors!


A look with all of the products mentioned above (plus MAC concealer and some eyebrow tools) I can't say it's completely drugstore only...

FOTD: 
Almost Drugstore Only
I feel weird without blush,,,



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August Favorites

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Fake OPI Polish

JANUARY 2, 2011 UPDATE:
A lot of website traffic comes to this specific post, at least one (often more) Google search a day. I would like to state I now have 15 bottles of OPI polish (purchased from Ulta, Trade Secret, eBay, and received in MakeupAlley swaps) and no two look the same.
According to OPI Twitter, (@OPI_PRODUCTS) "[There is] no sure way to tell unless bottle content [is] tested, unfortunately."  Each bottle is formulated differently, meaning different colors, consistencies, and contents.  The glass bottle depends on the manufacturing company. The warning labels and green/black labels also vary.  The labels are better explained here: Black Label OPIs.
It's going to be hard to tell just by appearance if it's real or fake. If the consistency is different than the rest, then you may have a fake on your hands (or it's been used and diluted with too much nail thinner.) - The best way to avoid this is to purchase from salons or beauty supplies (no eBay, blog sales, or swaps!)

Feel free to comment below with your input/your experiences.

ORGINAL POST:
Today, I received two OPI polishes. Brand New Skates (I ordered it on eBay.) and Black Onyx (Was picked up at State Beauty Supply.) I realized the packaging was completely different. I pulled out my other six polishes, starting examining them and doing research.

NOTICE
I'm not 100% sure what I'm saying below is accurate. Please comment below if you know of a completely accurate link. I just don't want anyone else googling 'fake opi' and freaking out like me! hah.

HISTORY
Guide: How to Identify your OPI Polish, this shows the appearance over the years.

THE INSPIRATION
I googled 'fake opi' and these were the first results to pop up:
OPI Lovers? You Should Read This Before you Bid!
How to Tell if an OPI Polish is Fake

Both of these websites are repetitive, like one copied the other. They seem so sure in what they're saying as well. Never did they say it's a theory. (The second link compares two real OPI nail polishes.) I also commented saying I doubted her theory, and she deleted it!  According to the two sites, only 1 of my 8 polishes is real.


OPI Polish Collection Background
eBay
(All from Power Sellers with excellent feedback.)
Brand New Skates
Dulce de Leche
Mod About You
Over the Taupe

Local Cheap-O Beauty Shop
Elephanstic Pink

MUA Swap
At Your Quebec & Call

State Beauty Supply
Black Onyx

Trade Secret Salon
My Private Jet

NONE of my OPI polishes are alike on the glass bottom, back, or label.

Warning Labels
Supposedly according to those sites, the polish I just received from State Beauty Supply (Where all salons go and order for their customers!) was a fake, just because it had 3 warning labels instead of 4. I continued on with my research spree... over time, chemicals and ingredients in the polish have changed. So with different chemicals, it's going to mean different hazardous materials, therefore... different warning labels. Why the font is different, I don't know, I guess OPI wanted a change in appearance. There are also some polishes with only 2 warning labels, I don't own any, but they're out there, and completely legit.

Bottle Spacing & Ridges
Glass bottle manufacturer can't be perfect every time. OPI may change the appearance of their bottles over time too.

Different Color Labels on the Bottom
Black labels are an older formula. Green labels are a newer b3f. Explanation here.

Serial Numbers
I don't know about this. None of my polishes have "engraved" serial numbers. Only two have serial numbers stamped on the bottom glass


Help / Add More Info
Help from MUA (makeupalley.com) Boards I posted a thread similar to this, but more in a freaking out, questioning manner. lol. All of these replies helped me and I thought they should be recognized.

I am not trying to put down or make fun of the two top blogs in any way. Again, when you google 'fake opi' these are the first two things to pop up! I don't believe their information is accurate. MUAers agree. Do you?

I know many of you are bigger polish lovers and polish obsessed than I am; If you have any information you want to correct or add, please let me know. I will add it in and link it to your blog.

The consistency in all 8 of these polishes are the same. I don't know why I doubted them being fake. Don't believe everything on google! Chances are, your OPI polish is real no matter where it came from or how different in appearance they are.

Are your OPI polishes different in appearance?

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July Favorites

 "Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

Most of my money has been going to school related things lately. Also, I spent a lot on the UK-US Swap last month, and I've been using all of those cosmetics. So really, I didn't buy a lot of new cosmetics this month.

1.) My White Walls

If you're following me on Twitter, you know I took down my picture wall. One entire wall in my room was covered with pictures, it was about three layers deep too, I was constantly covering up people I didn't like at the time. lol. Or years changed, events changed too. This is only about 2.5 years of pictures. (I did this once before too in junior high, but took it down and started over.) I've done a lot of de-cluttering in my room on the other walls too. I can actually see the white walls now!

2.) Coach Poppy Pop C Groovy Bag
This is my first Coach purse. The bright colors are great for the summer; it's a good size, too.


3.) Stella by Stella McCartney
I purchased this in September, got tired of it, and fell in love with it again. It's such a clean, fresh scent. I keep a rollerball in my purse too.

4.) Eyeko Cream
This is my favorite thing I got in the UK Swap! It's a multi-purpose really light shimmer.

5.) MAC Lip Conditioner
This is my second time purchasing it. The first tube must have fallen out of my purse. I can't find it anywhere! :/ (It was only half-used, I more upset I can't B2M it.) It has a vanilla milkshake scent. It's pretty moisturizing.

6.) Smackers Lip Frosting - Birthday Cake
I think this is my third tube (I never repurchase things unless I love them.) It smells like you're rubbing birthday cake all over your lips. It has a sheer light pink pretty color too. This tube is pretty old, I rediscovered it this month! hah.

7.) OPI at Your Quebec and Call
I've been going back and forth between this metallic dark green and my normal nude color.

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