Moisture is the Essence of Wetness

If anyone immediately got this post's title, we need to hang out...

Seriously... call me...

Or at least tweet me- @leslieb24 #BrainyBeautys

Got that? Good!

Now moving on actually to Essence and more specifically their fab cosmetics! Essence got its start as a UK brand famous for its winning combo of affordability and quality. It hopped the pond back in 2010, making its debut at ULTA stores, where it can still be found today. As if we needed another excuse to visit that make-up mecca!

The XXXL Shine Lipgloss in Nude Kiss smells like warm vanilla and gives the kisser just the right amount of subtle oomph. Plus, it's non-sticky!

If you want something more dramatic definitely grab Stay With Me Longlasting Lipgloss in Kiss Kiss Kiss, which gives a bright, punchy, glossy pop of color that's perfect for spring.

The Stay All Day Longlasting Concealer is also a winner, although be a bit wary when using the applicator as it grabs a generous amount in one small dose. I preferred to dab it on the back of my hand and then switch to a smaller concealer brush to apply to problem areas.

Liquid liner and cat-eyes are a big trend this season and Sun Club 100% Splash Proof Eyeliner Pen in Ultra Black is a valid ticket. It works like a marker, with a felt tip end, and allows for an easier application.

Essence is a little tween-y in its appeal, but offers a quick, cheap fix for trying out a look you might not be sure of committing to.

Close-up of the marker-esque eyeliner pen:

One Stuffed Stocking

Santa was exceptionally generous this year and 

filled my mantle-hung booty with all sorts of irresistible products!!

Check out what the big guy gifted me:

TIGI Dual Bronzer- This combo pack provides whatever you need on any given day! Feeling like you need a bit of bronze? Hit up the right side of this gem! Simply looking for a highlight to your cheek bones? Use the left! For a perfect, sunkissed glow, blend the two together!! This is a must have-especially during the winter when our skin lacks a bit of mother nature shed vitamin D.

Essence, Stay All Day Concealer-Santa really did think of everything!! I love this long lasting stick that hides my facial imperfections. It's easy application and beautiful blendability (is that a word? it is now!) make it a new key player in my arsenal of products!!

Lady Gaga, Fame- When she isn't belting out kick-butt pop and dance jams, abusing the piano in the best possible way, or rocking a meat-suit, Lady Gaga is designing perfumes! Contrary to popular belief, this is not a bottle of blood and semen scent, but rather a feminine fluid with notes of saphron, honey, and apricot!

Essence, Color & Go- Any super busy gal on the go who also loves a fresh manicure needs this polish in her life!! These cute little bottles of fun come in endless hues and really do provide a quick drying, professional finish.

Avon, Luxe Clutch Eyeshadow-This adorably packaged, mirrored compact contains 10 tempting shades of shadow, ideal for day or night! I plan to make this my go-to for eye lid hues at home or travel!

Essence-Stay All Day Long Lasting Eye Shadow-Santa knows I'm a hard working chick, who often puts in some long days, so this delicate yet powerful shadow is a must have to keep looking fresh faced throughout it all! I'm loving the shade "For Faries", but per the usual, Essence has an eye shadow in every flavor imaginable!

L'Occitane Immortelle Brightening

Immortelle Brightening Essence

Immortelle Brightening Moisture Cream

So, could L'Occitane have done something wrong?

I love the Immortelle Precious Cream & Eye Balm, was very skeptical that any reformulation could be good.

I tried the Brightening Essence (read: serum) and Moisture Cream, not expecting much.

I have rarely been so happy to be proved wrong!

This combo seriously worked on my parenthesis, those dark spots from my temples around the side & up onto my forehead.

My skin glowed, and not in that oily-sheen way.

Again, well done L'Occitane.

I <3 again="again" amp="amp" brilliance.="brilliance." div="div" doubt="doubt" efficiency="efficiency" in="in" never="never" will="will" you="you" your="your">

P.S. The milky glass containers? Love almost as much as the cobalt glass.