Urban Decay Friends & Family: Save 30%

I love the frequency and regularity with which Urban Decay brings us their always celebration-worthy 30% off F&F events - if there's one thing I love more than makeup, it's buying makeup at a discount!  Now through April 19, 2010, use code: 1SFNF at checkout to save 30% on your total Urban Decay purchase (and as always, automatically get free-shipping on all orders over $50). 

This time around I've got my eye on the All Nighter Long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray ($29), De-Slick Oil Control Makeup Setting Spray ($29), and of course the De-Slick in a Tube ($28).  Be sure to pop back to ABS to share your hauls!   
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Urban Decay Friends & Family: Save 30%

Urban Decay has brought us yet another F&F discount, running from today (11/9/09) through November 20, 2009. Save 30% during Friends and Family by entering code: FNFW1 at checkout.

This is the perfect opportunity to stock up on all the great palettes and liner sets that Urban Decay has been releasing - they make fantastic stocking stuffers!
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Up Close & Personal with my Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil Collection

With Sephora's F&F event currently on-going, I figured some of you may be restocking your stash of Urban Decay's 24/7 eyeliners, or checking them out for the first time. Either way, here's a close-up look at my own set of mini pencils to help you make your decisions!




Aren't they beautiful? Electric (the bright blue iridescent teal you see in the last photo) is seriously hot and one of my favorites! But my must have? Yeyo, a metallic white that my mother and I are both obsessed with. I wouldn't use it all over my eye as that would be overkill, but a soft thin line along the inner portion of my waterline gives me that wide-eyed alert look that I'm in desperate need of most mornings.
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Urban Decay Holiday 2009 Releases

Urban Decay has got some seriously hot new items on the shelves for this 2009 holiday season; it seems that they've gotten seriously good at tempting me!

At the top of my want list is this Show Pony Shadow Box ($30) which contains six vibrant shades of shadow (loving that purple and teal!), a travel-sized 24/7 Eye Pencil in Zero (a must-have long-lasting black), a mini bottle of Eyeshadow Primer Potion and a big mirror, all in a wicked box illustrated by LA artist Kime Buzzelli.

Check out the rest of my Urban Decay Holiday 2009 picks after the jump!

Urban Decay's Smoke Out Kits ($34) contain all the essentials for a sexy smoky eye including 4 color-coordinated shadows, step-by-step instructions, eye liner, and even a mini Skyscraper Mascara which I recently reviewed as part of the Mascara Series.

I've heard so many great things about the original Book of Shadows, so I can only imagine how fabulous its sequel, Vol. II ($48), with its 16 shadows (and 8 exclusive shades!), 2 24/7 pencils, and mini primer potion must be!

Is it bad that I didn't even know Urban Decay used to make nail polish? Well I could easily assuage my guilt by purchasing the Apocalyptic Nail Kit ($26) and trying seven different shades at once! This set gives you an easy and affordable way of testing out what Urban Decay thinks will be the season's season’s “it” polishes.

And last but certainly not least, we have the return of Urban Decay's much-loved and raved about liner sets, only better! The 24/7 Super Stash ($36) set includes nine mini-sized 24/7 Eye Pencils, including four shades exclusive to this set: Corrupt (brown sparkle), Binge (navy – finally!), Eldorado (a new gold), and Oil Slick (black sparkle). The new and improved 24/7 Sets ($29) each include an exclusive shade of 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil, 3 best-sellers, and a Heavy Metal Glitter Eyeliner.

With so many fabulous gift-giving options this holiday season, I know I won't be at a loss when it comes to fun stocking stuffers!


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Perfecting Pink: Urban Decay Lipsticks in Naked & Lovechild Review + Swatches

Urban Decay Lipstick ($22)
Leaving no shade unturned, our huge assortment of colors and textures tempt you to stray from an otherwise predicable palette. The luxuriously creamy formula nourishes and protects lips with Vitamins A, C, and E. Hyaluronic Spheres (found naturally in the body) are added to stimulate cellular function, prevent dehydration, and fill-in lines and wrinkles—now, how many Lipsticks can do that?! The teardrop-shape bullet (etched with an Urban Decay logo) is infused with a decadent crème caramel scent and flavor. Yum.

I'm on a perpetual hunt for that perfect shade of nude pink - that holy grail "my lips but better" shade that will give my lips the subtle enhancement they need without screaming "I'm wearing lipstick!" to the world. Well I'd say search over (or at least temporarily halted) thanks to Urban Decay's wonderful lipsticks which I've waited way too long to try!

Lovechild on top, Naked on the bottom.

The packaging on Urban Decay's lipsticks is unique, stunning, and difficult not to love. I know there are those of you that dislike the impracticality of having to pull out your lipstick by a tiny little not-so-finger-friendly spear, but I for one couldn't care less - I'm all about the pretty!

Close-up of the etching on the Urban Decay lipsticks (Lovechild on top, Naked on the bottom).

These wonderfully creamy, glossy, hydrating lipsticks also have the Urban Decay logo etched onto the sides of the lipsticks, a small touch that again brings on that warm fuzzy happy feeling.

Close-up of the mini gunmetal dagger pull.

But of course a lipstick is nothing if its formula is rubbish ~ and thankfully Urban Decay's is rather wonderful! Naked and Lovechild both impart a beautifully glossy sheen to the lips while leaving them sheathed in wonderfully hydrating color.

The one negative that I've been hearing a lot about this formula is the scent/flavor. The Urban Decay lippies have a very distinct caramel flavor which I actually quite enjoy, but I know there are others out there who just can't get over the intensity of it, so this may be one of those products you definitely want to sniff/test before buying.

Swatches: Naked (left), Lovechild (right)

So of course, onto the colors! Naked is a full-coverage nude pink that has been touted by so many as their HG my lips but better shade, and I'd have to say it gets pretty close to that status for me as well. My lips bring out a little more of the nude than the pink in Naked, but all in all it's a shade that succeeds in subtly enhancing my natural lip shade.

Lip Swatch of Naked.

Lovechild is a semi-sheer light cool pink shade that, compared to Naked, has more of a milky mauvey tinge to it. I happen to absolutely adore this shade on my lips. It's a little lighter than my natural lip color but super-flattering nonetheless and really give my lips the illusion of lushness/plumpness that I'd be crazy not to love!

Lip Swatch of Lovechild.

The Verdict: Urban Decay's Lipsticks are really rather reasonable at $22, especially consdering how wonderful their formula is. Two things to keep in mind are that it's rather strongly scented of caramel so if you're not into scented products, this may be a no-no for you, and also that it is a glossy/creamy formula, meaning that this isn't going to be nearly as long-wearing as other lipsticks you may have. I definitely plan to check out many many more of the Urban Decay lipstick shades, and thanks to Elaine for sending these two to me!
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Mascara Series Part 31: Urban Decay Skycraper Multi-Benefit Macara Review & Photos

Urban Decay Skyscraper Multi-Benefit Mascara ($22)

The Claim: Six-in-one Skyscraper Mascara lengthens, strengthens, thickens, brightens, separates and curls lashes. A flexible, new generation brush grabs and separates every lash, while deluxe ingredients like panthenol, vitamins C & E and silk protein help condition, strengthen and protect, with no flaking. Lashes are long, strong and feather-soft.

The Packaging: Skyscraper Multi-Benefit comes in a gorgeous, velvety-feeling matte touch tube embellished with a hand-drawn midnight purple design. The packaging was really a delight for the senses!




The Brush: When I saw the applicator on this mascara, I immediately thought of my dearly loved YSL Everlong (review HERE), and so of course I purchased Urban Decay's Skyscraper Multi-Benefit Mascara in the hopes that it could serve as a cheaper alternative. And while the brushes do look quite similar in person and in the photos, for some reason this one just doesn't give me the amazing definition that Everlong does. It's still quite the nice macara brush - it defines and separates the lashes quite well - it's just not as good.


The Formula: The formula was a little disappointing for me. It is indeed feathery soft and lightweight and it builds nicely on the lashes, but I would've appreciated a little more length and volume and a lot more curl. Again the formula is similar to Everlong's, right down to the lash-loving ingredients that are meant to promote healthier lashes, but my lashes lacked the stunning length I'm able to achieve with Everlong. One coat of Skyscraper really didn't do much for me ~ what you're seeing in the photos below is 3 coats. I experienced zero flaking or clumping and only a tiny bit of smudging, making this a nice run-of-the-maill mascara, but there was just no wow-factor to it for me.




The Verdict: Urban Decay's Skyscraper Multi-Benefit is less skyscraper and more two story building. It makes a great everyday mascara, but on those nights you're looking for a little more drama to really make your eyes pop, this isn't going to cut it. I did quite like it though, and it gets high marks from me for the beautiful packaging!

RATING: 3.5/5

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Save 30% During Urban Decay's Friends & Family!

I usually find Urban Decay's Friends & Family discount relatively easy to ignore, but this fall is an entirely different story. There are so many things that I want from their recent Fall 2009 release and this discount means that I just may be getting some of them! Currently on my wishlist are:


1) At least one of the Ink for Eyes cream eyeliners. I've got my eye on Empire, Zero and Pyrotechnics - what about you?


2) I've been hearing such raves about Urban Decay's new lipstick shade, Naked, that I just need to try this one for myself. Apparently it's that ideal "my lips but better shade" that all women are perpetually on the hunt for, and so this creamy pink nude is definitely high on my to-buy list!


3) I know I told you I wasn't entirely crazy abotu the Pore Perfecting primer in my review of a few weeks back, but I am currently loving the Brightening formula which keeps my skin and foundation in happy harmony all day long. I'm thinking a back-up may be in order!

Of course onto the most important part, the code! Enter code: FNFF1 at checkout now through August 20, 2009 to receive 30% off all of your UrbanDecay.com orders. And of course be sure to share your hauls with me!

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MAJOR Sale on Urban Decay 24/7 Travel Size Liner Sets!

Thanks so much to Ana of Lipsticks & Lightsabers for this tip! Urban Decay Cosmetics currently has both their V.I.P. and Velvet Rope Travel Size Set of 5 Eyeliners for the low low price of $13.99 each!! These are the very same sets that were continuously sold out during the holidays when they were going for $29!

Check out my review and swatches of the V.I.P. liner set HERE - these liners are really gorgeous. They're creamy, pigmented, long-lasting ad the shade range is eye-popping yet infinitely wearable. And at $13.99 a pop you really can't go wrong. I ordered one of each, and you should too! Head on over HERE to check them out!
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Urban Decay Pore Perfecting Complexion Primer Potion Review & Swatches

Urban Decay Complexion Primer Potion - Pore Perfecting ($30)
Smooth on a little Complexion Primer Potion - Pore Perfecting before foundation (or alone!) to minimize the look of pores and fine lines. The velvety formula simmers down to a soft-matte finish—without the greasy, heavy feel sometimes associated with foundation primers. The result is flawless skin with an airbrushed look and feel. Foundation will go on smoothly, evenly, and won't fade away. Ideal for oilier skin, but dry complexions who want pore perfection will love it, too! The convenient squeeze tube includes a twist-up dispenser (like school glue!) for easy portion control.

I'm loving the whole 'Lab Sample' thing Sephora's been doing as of late ~ it's always fun to have the opportunity to test out new products before they officially launch, and it prevents me from spending money on a product I don't like and then having to return it. My latest lab sample was Urban Decay's recently released Pore Perfecting Complexion Primer Potion which I was expecting to be holy grail material. So was it?

A pea-sized dollop of the Pore Perfecting Primer ~ enough for your whole face.

In short, no. I don't hate it, but I don't entirely love it either. My main issue with the Pore Perfecting Primer is its texture. I find it rather ironic that the people at Urban Decay chose to use the words 'school glue' in their product description, as to me that's kind of what the product feels like. Squeeze out a dollop of this product and you've got a really thick white substance in your hand that isn't really the most spreadable.

A little goes a long way so I usually squeeze out a small, pea-sized amount, rub it between my hands to thin it out and warm it up a little and then proceed to apply all over my face, focusing on the areas that have enlarged pores. The sensation of the product against my skin isn't entirely unpleasant, but it is a little heavy and I can definitely tell that it's there ~ it's got the same siliconey feel as Smashbox's PhotoFinish but a little heavier, and minus the weird greasy slipperiness.

Partially blended ~ see how thick it is?

Every morning I look in the mirror after applying this primer, and then my foundation on top, and think "Wow my skin looks amazing," and it really does for the first three hours or so. My skin looks smooth, even, nearly poreless and as close to flawless as it's probably ever going to get.

After a little more blending...

However after those first few hours my face is a mess. Most of the foundation simply disappears, and what's left behind is this really greasy feeling that I can't shake for the rest of the day. The Complexion Primer Potion does make my foundation fade more evenly, but it also makes it fade more quickly than it normally would without primer. It also seems to mix in weird ways with the oils that my skin produces, so that my skin looks less oily but it feels 100x oilier than normal.

And fully blended in!

I could forgive the thickness and heaviness of this primer if it were longer-wearing, and if my face looked as good during the middle of the day as it did at the beginning, I could even deal with the greasy feeling it leaves on my skin. I'm surprised and more than a little disappointed that I didn't love this, as I know that others have been raving over it and professing that they've found their end-all-be-all primer.

List of Ingredients

Please keep in mind that this is just my opinion, and I'm only one little person with very oily skin and excessively large pores! There are a ton of people out there who absolutely adore this product so if you're curious, do try it out for yourself, it might just be perfect for you. I think that this could have been great if my complexion were just a little less oily.

RATING: 3/5

I'll be ordering Urban Decay's Brightening Complexion Primer Potion soon - let's hope I have better luck with this one!

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Urban Decay's Awesome New Lineup!

Urban Decay Ink for Eyes ($22)
It’s everything you want in a cream eyeliner! More precise than a pencil, more forgiving than a liquid, this super-smooth formula offers more control, play time, and buildable coverage than your average liner.

What’s our secret ingredient? Nylon 12! This high-tech polymer decreases drag for flawless application (no skips or smears), while softening and absorbing excess oil. Color glides easily and stays true all day long. And, the formula is paraben-free!

I"ma huge fan of cream liners - they make for easier application, are usually longer lasting than liquids or pencils, and of course they're fun to work with. Couple that with the fact that Urban Decay's 24/7 liners are some of the best out there and I really have high hopes for this one. I'll be checking this out when it launches at Sephora!

Eyelash Primer Potion ($17)
Wave this magic wand before your favorite mascara for lashes that appear thicker, longer and stronger… right before your very eyes. Tiny fibers band together, cling to every lash, and construct towers of Babel… reaching for heavenly lashes. Just apply Eyelash Primer Potion, then apply your favorite mascara as usual. Your lashes will look fake, but the magic is real.

Lip Primer Potion ($20)
Prepare your lips for the day ahead. Our invisible primer lays a silky foundation for your favorite lipstick or gloss. Color is truer, applies smoother, lasts longer, and will not fade or feather. The easy-glide formula feels velvety-soft, without the drying feeling often associated with long-lasting lip color.

The formula includes SPF 15 (yay!) and moisturizing Vitamins A, C and E for a primer that protects and perfects. And, our pretty roll-up tube and slanted bullet make for precise, easy application.

I saw some lip neutralizers at the MAC Pro store the other day and while I was curious, I can't get over my fear of unnaturally pale lips so decided to hold off on purchasing, but Urban Decay's has me curious.

Surreal Skin Cream to Powder Foundation ($34)
Want porcelain-perfect coverage AND a modern, natural finish? Surreal Skin Cream-to-Powder Foundation is your answer. This ultra-lightweight formula transforms from a decadent cream to a micro-fine powder upon contact with skin. You won’t believe the instant transformation! The light-as-air texture glides on effortlessly and feels as natural as your own skin. (No heavy, greasy, or powdery makeup texture.)

Lighter than liquid, our buildable formula gives you all the coverage you desire, without the pore-clogging effects of heavier foundations – you can even wear it as a concealer.

Hyaluronic Filling Spheres and Pearl Powders hydrate and reduce the appearance of fine lines, while antioxidants, like Vitamins A and C, nourish and protect skin.

And, you Urban Decay fans will LOVE to pull this compact out of your bag! The transparent violet compact features a collage of skulls, flowers and funny creatures. Inside, the double-decker compact houses a mirror, your foundation AND a ventilated compartment for a custom, cruelty-free brush. No more digging to find your foundation brush – it’s included.

Yet another item that's going on my wishlist! I still haven't found that perfect cream to powder compact foundation, but based upon the description this one is definitely a contender.

Brightening Complexion Primer Potion ($30)
Dull skin? Fine lines? Disappearing foundation? Try Brightening Complexion Primer Potion under foundation (or alone!) for beautifully moisturized skin that looks brighter and feels tighter.

This lightweight, oil-free, paraben-free formula includes buzz-worthy ingredient Matrixyl 3000, celebrated for its ability to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Hyaluronic Filling Spheres also minimize the look of fine lines while leaving skin beautifully moisturized. Your skin will look youthful, lifted and firm, and your foundation will apply smoothly, evenly, and last longer!

Ideal for complexions that need moisture, and great for mature skin. But, our Brightening formula gives every skin type a healthy glow.

Let's hope that Urban Decay decides to adopt some squeeze packaging for their eyeshadow Primer Potion! I'm loving the idea of a brightening/tightening gel primer and I'm dying to get my hands on this.

Pore Perfection Complexion Primer Potion ($30)
Smooth on a little Pore Perfecting Complexion Primer Potion before foundation (or alone!) to totally minimize the look of pores and fine lines. The velvety, paraben-free formula flashes down to a soft-matte finish, without the greasy, heavy feel sometimes associated with foundation primers. The result? Flawless skin with an airbrushed look and feel. Foundation applies smoothly, evenly, and won’t fade away. Ideal for oilier skin, but dry complexions who want pore perfection will love it, too.

If you scroll down a little more you'll see that Sephora is currently offering a preview sample of this with any order--I'm definitely going to be getting one to review for you all. Hopefully me and my super large pores will like this. To get your own sample enter code: URBANLAB at checkout--and of course be sure to come back to let me know what you think!

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Urban Decay FINALLY Brings Us A New Wand!

It seems that the people at Urban Decay have finally heard your pleas to improve the packaging of their Primer Potion, as they've started rolling out a new and improved angled wand that's supposed to alleviate the aggravation of having half your primer sitting in your tube, unreachable except via hacksaw. While I'll acknowledge that the angled applicator is a vast improvement over their original straight applicator, I still happen to think that there will be a good amount of product that will remain in the tube, waiting to be depotted. How do you feel about Urban Decay's "solution"?
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