Pretty, Cheap, AND Pretty Cheap- An Essence Lip Gloss and Lipstick

I had always admired the brand Essence when people posted pictures of their products, but I knew I had little chance of getting any because at the time Essence was strictly a European, specifically German, brand.  Essence infiltrated the U.S. market awhile ago and I couldn't have been happier to try another budget makeup brand.  Their polishes, while small, retail for $0.99 and they have some cute colors.  I think the most expensive item I have seen on their display was around $5.00 and I think it was a foundation.

Essence is most popularly known for being sold at Ulta, but it is also sold at my local HEB grocery stores (I live in Texas).  The cool thing is that we also get a lot of the limited edition collection as well.  The only issue I have with Essence is that none of their products are sealed, but a lot of the times I have caught a fresh display or even directly when the employees were stocking the displays.

Here are the two products I have for you today.  One is a red lip gloss called Once Upon a Time from a limited edition collection called Fairytale.  The other is a nude lipstick called Creamy Nude from their permanent line.

 Also, I thought it was worth noting that Essence says on their website that they do not test on animals (which is always good!).   Here is a link to the U.S. website.

Essence Fairytale lipgloss in Once Upon A Time

You can see the warning sticker on the side that says "contains carmine".  I thought it was nice that they put that there for people who avoid carmine.

Once Upon A Time is a bright cherry red that looks more berry-ish on my skin tone.  The texture is really neat; it feels like a gel and wears like a lipstain.  Once the gloss has worn off your lips are left with a nice, even tint.  I also absolutely love the scent, and I am one that is sensitive to strong scents in lip products.  I'm terrible at describing scent, but it smells fruity.

Essence Fairytale lipgloss in Once Upon A Time

It looks a little bit here like it is settling into my lip lines, but you can't tell in real life at all.

Essence Lipstick in Creamy Nude

The name Creamy Nude is a very accurate description.  The lipstick feels creamy and somewhat glossy.  It is also the most perfect shade of nude for my skin.  It doesn't make me look like a zombie (although I LOVE zombies) and it is actually a nude on my skintone (most are too dark or warm toned).  This lipstick costs $2.49; a steal in my opinion!

As you can see this is pink-toned, which is exactly the type of nude I need with my cool skin.


Available:

• Essence is available at Ulta stores and Ulta's website
• I'm also able to find Essence at my local grocery store.  I'm not sure if other places have Essence because it isn't listed on Essence's website.

Thank you for reading and have a great day/night/whatever!