Source: Sephora

What it does:
Keep your lashes looking lovely, even on the go, with the Sephora Brand Mini Heated Eyelash Curler. This handy little tool is perfect for curling stubborn straight lashes, anytime, anywhere.

Directions:
Designed to be used after mascara application, this curler gently warms the waxes in mascara, resulting in a stronger, longer-lasting curl. Simply turn on, wait 15 seconds, place the comb directly onto lash line above lashes, gently lift and comb (don’t wiggle) lashes into the desired shape and hold for one or two seconds.  Repeat across lashline until the desired effect is achieved.

Sounds promising, doesn’t it?

Approx. Price: $12
Where to Purchase? Sephora

The same gal pal that gave me shu umera’s Eyelash Curler gave this to me as well.  I expressed much love for shu umera’s Eyelash Curler, but will Sephora’s Mini Heated Eyelash Curler get the same love?

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This past Christmas, one of my best gal pals gave me shu umera’s famous Eyelash Curler as a gift.  My girlfriend definitely knows me best!  If you didn’t already know, I have a thing for lashes - mascara, faux lashes, liner, or anything to give my eyes that “WOW” factor!

Let’s see if shu umera Eyelash Curler “WOWed” me…

shu umera Eyelash Curler Product Details (Source: shu umera’s website):

• Upgraded silicone pad in a new “mushroom” shape provides a protective, stay-put edge for improved safety and optimum curl.
• Upgraded patented hinge with precise engineering applies perfect amount of pressure on eyelashes
• Curved angle suits all eye shapes
• Calculated shape and size of frame length and ergonomic handles ensure stability and control

Source: Sephora

Approx. Price: $19

The Bottom Line:

Previously, I have been using Revlon’s eyelash curler and was quite content with the results.  But when I tried out shu umera’s Eyelash Curler, OH my goodness…there’s a HUGE difference!  Bye-bye Revlon!  Two clamps of this eyelash curler and it gave my eyelashes have a slight bent at the base and huge lift of the lashes.  It really opened up my peepers.  After a couple swipes of mascara (CoverGirl Lashblast, of course!), my lashes were set for the rest of the day.  Unlike most eyelash curlers, I didn’t experience any pinching or lash fallout.

Priced at $19, shu umera Eyelash Curler comes with an extra replacement pad.  According to the instructions on the box, the pad is supposed to be replaced every three months.  To prolong the shelf life of any eyelash curler, I recommend cleaning the curler clamp with a cotton ball of a small mixture rubbing alcohol and water.

Is the price worth it? YES it’s so worth it! Every penny!

Have any of you tried shu umera Eyelash Curler? If so, what are your thoughts? If not, what’s your favorite eyelash curler?

Q-Tips are a staple product for any beauty addict.  And Q-Tips has revamped its standard packaging with Q-Tips Vanity Packs.  These new Q-Tip packs are available in four colors.

Approx. Price: $3.19

Where to Purchase? Mass market retailers

So what’s great about these new vanity packs?

• Convenience factor: No additional storage container is necessary.  The box is pretty enough to on the counter top or any vanity.
• Inexpensive

As my second attempt to find a dupe of MAC’s famous 187 stippling brush, I purchased Lumiere’s version of their brush.  Priced at $8, it was a price I could not refuse.  And guess what?

Lumiere’s Duo Fiber Optic Brush delivers!  The bristles are extremely soft and dense.  The handle is a bit shorter than Crown Brushes version, but had not problem with that.  After a couple washings, it does shed a little, but not as much as Crown Brushes.  This brush is great for application of any liquid foundation and blush too! I can easily achieve the airbrushed look with MAC Studio Fix Fluid and this brush!  Thank goodness I found my MAC alternative…I saved myself over $30!

If you do not want to shell out $42 for MAC’s Duo Fibre brush, Lumiere’s Duo Fiber Optic Brush is a great alternative.

For more information on Lumiere Cosmetics, go here.

UPDATE (3.2.2010): This brush was purchased during Lumiere’s Pre-Buy special.  Unfortunately, it’s now priced at their regular price of $24.  But if you sign up for their newsletter, Lumiere will update you on their brush sales.  Thanks again Niki for the heads up!