Review | Nyx HD Finishing Powder

I was in need of a decent setting product, as my last setting spray finally ran out. I decided to try my hand at a powder, which I usually don't bother with as my skin is very dry and flaky and powder tends to emphasize that. But, as I learned, some powders tend to work fairly okay with dry skin types, and now it was up to me to experiment and see which ones could.

I decided to get the NYX HD finishing powder as my first try. It was relatively inexpensive so if it failed, I wouldn't be out of a good chunk of my wallet. I also decided to go for the mint green color, as I do have a fair bit of redness as well. Couldn't hurt, right? I'd tried their translucent setting powder once before, when it came in the tub and you had to sprinkle it out. I hated that powder, as it showed off my dryness, and was the powder that made me swear off powders. But, now it was in a friendly compact, re-formulated, and I got it on a whim.

I must say I'm not disappointed! I don't use much, and mainly keep it concentrated under my eyes so my concealer doesn't crease. It does emphasize my dry skin a tiny bit, but not to such a noticeable or horrendous degree as powders can. It's quite bearable, and my concealer doesn't crease. The powder is very fine and thin, so it doesn't cake on and it's easy to control the amount you apply. I can't say I've noticed any difference in my redness, but I didn't really buy it for that. It may not be perfect, but it's decent, and that's good enough for me! I'd say this is a hit, and a cheaper option than more high-end setting powders that could potentially not work for me. After some research, I'm sure I can more confidently choose a high-end powder that could suit me. But this was a good first try, and restored my faith in setting powders a bit. As it is, I still want to invest in a good setting spray!

Haul | Most Recent Items I've Purchased

I finally return to beauty! I suppose this is more of a collective haul, built up over the last two months or so. But, as they're recent enough, and I've got quite a few things, a haul post seemed in order! The picture quality isn't so great, and for that I apologize. The natural light was dying and I'm a bit out of practice. I'll probably do more in depth reviews on individual items as I progress in using them and get a better understanding of them, but for now, let's see what I've picked up!

-Nyx HD Finishing Powder in Mint Green

-MAC lipstick in 'Syrup

-MAC Viva Glam lipstick in Miley Cyrus

-Milani blushes in Tea Rose and Romantic Rose

-Nyx Micro Brow Pencil in Chocolate

-MUFE Step 1 Primer in the white 'Nourishing' tube

-NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Chantilly

-Kat Van D Tattoo liner in black

-MAC Mineralize liquid foundation in NW13

I've also collected a few bits and bobs from my Birchbox subscription but I won't include those here. I might do a few reviews on things from the boxes, though, if I get around to it. As it is, I have a lot of things to review!

Days Go By

July passed in such a blur, and August is already on its way out. Seeing the time pass so quickly is making me feel a little sad, but it's also a bit of a good thing. I've been rather busy since my last post, with work and new friends that I've happily made, but I haven't forgotten about my little place to write about my journeys and beauty and everything else I love. Until I can gather up my makeup posts, I'll just share a little from the past month instead.

I took a day with my best friend to explore some of East Village, which is full of amazing food. We ended up going to Xian Famous Foods, which is a tiny little restaurant that serves the best soup I've ever had in my life. I also stopped at a macaron shop on our walk and picked up four little macarons, all of which were amazing. I'm dying to go back soon!

We had a roof day with some friends one night as well, where we laid out some blankets and played games and drank. It was a very fun night, and we plan to do many more! We light candles when it gets dark, though the city lights tend to help visibility as well. The subtle scents from the candles and the light breeze really make the entire atmosphere so serene and calming. I adored this night.

To finish off, as everything should be finished off, I had some amazing cheesecake ice cream. I had already started on it before I remembered to take a picture! 

I hope August remains a decent month, even as I go into school and prepare for some very busy times. I hope to see you all soon!