The Review: Clarisonic Mia 2 - Does It Really Work?

By now, it seems like almost everyone in the beauty community owns a Clarisonic. There are several imitations available from drugstore brands, as well. If you're unfamiliar with the Clarisonic, it's a professional-quality skincare brush that promises to cleanse your skin far better than any typical washcloth routine. The premise sounds interesting, and the buzz surrounding it is hard to ignore. But is the Clarisonic really something you'll use every day? Is it worth the high price tag? And will it honestly do a better job of cleansing your skin? I went ahead and bought one to figure out if the cleansing brush could live up to the hype.

The Review: YSL Le Teint Touche Éclat Illuminating Foundation!

Hey everyone! Summer has been crazy, and unfortunately I haven't been able to post as often as I'd like! However, as we move towards the end of August, I'm working to bring more reviews, recommendations, and skincare/haircare routines to Inner Sparkle. I can't wait!

Today, I'm going to talk about a famous foundation with a near-cult following: Yves St. Laurent's Le Teint Touche Éclat. It's inspired by their hugely popular brightening concealer, which I use frequently when doing a more natural look. After seeing countless beauty bloggers rave about this foundation, I had to brave the high price tag and try it out for myself.

The List: Best Budget Beauty Buys For All Skin Types!

Hey guys! I'm so sorry I've been away for a while; I was under a lot of pressure at school. Now that summer is here, I plan to continue posting and reviewing makeup and beauty buys! Thanks for sticking with me.

Everyone is always looking for a good deal, especially on things like makeup and other beauty products. The truth is, many cheaper brands just don't meet the quality of those with higher price points. Even when a less expensive product works well, it still might be full of harmful ingredients like parabens! But it's also true that with a little digging, you can find excellent makeup that is not only inexpensive, but contains great ingredients as well. Welcome to my list of the ultimate Best Budget Beauty Buys!

The Review: Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Finishing Powder!

Until recently, I'd always finished my makeup with a pressed powder or powder foundation, like Mac's Mineralize Skin Finish Natural or Physician's Formula CC Powder. However, I purchased a small Tarte set around the holidays and it came with a tiny sample size of their Smooth Operator Finishing Powder. I decided to give it a try, and I was absolutely shocked with the results.

The Review: Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser!

I've had my eye on Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser for so long! When I was at Sephora recently, I finally decided to pick it up. I was really pleased to see that Nars has recently added two new shades to the lineup. One of these new shades is called Terre Neuve, and it's lighter than their previous lightest option, Finland. If you had trouble finding a shade match before, it might be time to take another look at the Nars counter, as there are now 11 colours to choose from.

My Vacation Part 3: Makeup, Nails, and Haircare Haul!

I stayed in Ottawa for ten days, and while there I picked up quite a bit of new makeup! I shopped at stores like Sephora and Shopper's, as well as smaller cosmetic shops and drugstore chains. In addition, I also grabbed some new haircare products and nail polishes. In this post, I'll be going over my purchases. Soon, you'll see in-depth reviews of many of these products!

My Vacation Part 2: Museums, Parliament, Gel Nails, and Cupcakes!

As part of my series on my trip to Ottawa, I'm bringing you a quick peek into some of the things I did during my ten day stay in Canada's capital!

My Vacation Part 1: Clothing Haul!

So, as many of you know, I've spent the last ten days in Ottawa! Thank you so much for being understanding about my inability to keep the blog updated during my holiday; I promise I'll make up for it with some extra special posts this week. Stay on the lookout for my makeup haul, new nail stuff, a post about my visit to parliament, a skincare haul, individual reviews on products I've purchased, and all the details on the Head and The Heart concert that I was lucky enough to have the chance to attend! I can't wait to update you guys on everything that's been going on. Let's start with my clothing haul!

The Review: Avene Skincare!

Avene is a European skincare brand known for quality ingredients, innovative solutions, and excellent products. Today I'm bringing you a review of three of their best-sellers! Is there truth behind the hype? Let's find out!

The List: Top 5 Common Beauty Mistakes (And How To Fix Them)!

We've all done it; tried to apply eyeliner before a party when we had no idea how to create a wing, or gone to bed without washing all of our makeup off. While mistakes are a part of life, there are several common (yet less obvious) beauty blunders that are seriously taking away from our routines. Read on to find out what they are and how to fix them!

The Review: Origins Skincare Extravaganza!

Ever since the online beauty community became obsessed with Origins' GinZing Refreshing Eye Cream, I was desperate to get my hands on some products from the brand. I picked up a set of 5 Origins products from Sephora, and I'm excited to bring you a review for each one today!

Saturday Special: How to Make Vegan, Sugar-Free Cake Batter Ice Cream!

While browsing Twitter recently, I came across this image for how to create your own dairy-free 'ice cream' at home. I've tweaked it a little to create a vegan, sugar-free option, as well as a sugar-free version with added protein. It's super healthy, can be made in 5 minutes, truly tastes amazing, and is super customizable with other flavours. Read on to figure out how to make it yourself!

Quick Review: Vichy Normaderm Hyaluspot Targeted Spot Treatment!

I'm a huge fan of the Vichy Normaderm skincare range, designed especially for acne-prone or extra oily skin. Their moisturiser is my staple and lifesaver, so when the new spot treatment was released, I was excited to try it out!

The Review: L'Oreal Youth Code Texture Perfector Serum Concentrate!

L'Oreal has definitely released some awesome products lately - from their micellar solution that rivals Bioderma's version, to their Oil-Free Miracle Blur which reminded me a lot of the Smashbox Photo Finish primer - let's just say I've needed to make less trips to Sephora. And who doesn't love getting awesome skincare at their local drugstore for a great price? So when I spotted the Youth Code Texture Perfector, I had to give it a try.

Product Battle: L'Oreal Gentle Micellar Solution VS Bioderma H2O!

Everyone knows how popular micellar solutions are recently, especially brands like Bioderma. The water-like solution can be used for cleansing, removing water-resistant makeup, and to sooth irritation caused by harsher cleansers or exfoliators. Sounds great, right? Well, as much as I love Bioderma H2O, it can be extremely difficult to get your hands on. Many people have to order it online. On top of that, it's quite expensive - I pay $22 for 250 ml. So when L'Oreal released a new product - Sublime Soft Gentle Micellar Solution - I was intrigued. Today, I'll be comparing both products to see if the L'Oreal version really can stand up to Bioderma's stellar reputation.

Quick Tutorial: How to Get Cate Blanchett's Oscar Makeup With Drugstore Products!

While everyone looked stunning at the Oscars last Sunday, I was especially struck by Cate Blanchett's gorgeous hair, makeup, and outfit. Not only was the Oscar-winner's makeup look glamorous, it's actually quite universally flattering and easy to create at home. To me, this look is all about celebrating pretty, romantic, and feminine beauty. It features soft pinks and neutrals that so many people can wear beautifully. Today I'll be sharing my steps to get her look using only drugstore products. You definitely don't have to be a celebrity to pull this off and look fabulous!

The List: BB & CC Creams for Every Skin Type!

After trying countless BB and CC creams over the years, I've found what works. I'm also a firm believer that you can use these skincare/makeup powerhouses, no matter what your skin type. I've tried different formulas when my skin has been extremely oily, pretty normal, combination, and desert dry. Today I'm bringing you a list of the top 4 BB and CC creams for every skin concern. (Bonus? I picked up all of them at my local drugstore.)

The Solution: How to Get Healthy, Long, Shiny Hair - With Stuff You Already Own!

Happy Friday everyone! Today I'm going to be talking about haircare. In the winter, hair can feel brittle and dry, and look frizzy and dull. The cold temperatures outside certainly aren't helping, but when you go inside your hair has to deal with the dry heat and lack of moisture caused by furnaces and heating systems in homes and buildings. Other than running out and buying ten humidifiers, what can you do?

Well, there's a solution that involves using items you already own! That's right, no need to pick up ten new products. It's actually easy to mix up a hair mask that fights dryness and helps your hair shine. Hair products are great, and they often work well, but sometimes you need an added boost on top of a good haircare routine. All you need for this is some stuff from your kitchen, and you're set to go. Read on to find out how to make a rich mask that will transform your hair - and how and when to use it.

The Review: Cream Contour Products from the Drugstore (All Under $20)!

Today I'll be reviewing two products for cream contouring that I picked up at the drugstore. I know how difficult it can be to find products to contour with at affordable prices, as not much is available from traditional drugstore brands. I did, however, manage to find something for both contouring and highlighting. Let's test these out and see how they work!

The List: Top 5 Elf Products Worth Buying!

Elf is a makeup brand that offers many products (such as eyeshadow, blush, lipstick, etc.) for 1, 2, or 3 dollars. Every single one of their products is super-affordable, as even the foundations come in around $6. While some people swear by the brand, others say that you get the quality you pay for. Personally, I think that the truth is somewhere in the middle. Ultimately, while some products flop (all brands release less-than-perfect items sometimes), many products shine. In fact, some are even comparable or better than high end selections. Today I'm bringing you 5 Elf products that work well, are affordable, and are definitely worth buying. I'll also get into how to get the best deals that the brand has to offer.

The Solution: How to Hide Dark Circles, Discolouration, and Bags!

First off, I'd just like to apologize for not getting a review up on Wednesday - I really wasn't feeling well. Thankfully, I'm all better now, and I'm bringing you a brand new post on how to cover undereye circles and bags!

We've all been there; it's an important day and you wake up with puffy eyes and purple and blue discolouration. Tired-looking eyes often create a fatigued look all over the face, and can make your skin appear dull and sallow. However, don't panic! There are tons of ways to hide dark circles, brighten your eyes, and enhance your overall complexion.

The List: Top 5 Products From My Drugstore Haul! (First Impressions)

As you'll know if you follow me on Instagram, I went on another drugstore shopping spree this weekend, and I picked up a few exciting products. I've had the chance to test them all, and I'm bringing you my thoughts on the top 5!

The Solution: How to Celebrate Valentine's Day (Beauty Products, Nail Stuff, and More)!

Valentine's Day is finally here! Even though I've always been single on February 14th, I look forward to it every year. It's the only holiday that celebrates pink, my absolute favourite colour! But you don't have to be obsessed with Valentine's Day in order to enjoy it. In this special festive post, I'll be showing you fun ways to incorporate the holiday into your day, from beauty products to recipes - and more! Whether you're in a relationship or not, why not take today to appreciate everyone and everything that you love? A holiday about being grateful and thankful is definitely a day to celebrate.

The Review: L'Oreal Revitalift Oil Free Miracle Blur Skin Smoother!

Next to no one has perfect skin. I certainly don't - so when I come across a product that promises to blur the appearance of pores and fine lines, even skintone, and create a smooth surface, I'm all in. I absolutely had to test out this beauty blogger favourite that's often raved about.

So, what exactly is it? When should you apply it? Does it deliver on the product's claims? I was on a mission to find out.

The List: 10 Quick Steps to Creating Easy Valentine's Day Beauty Kits!

You're probably well aware that this Friday is Valentine's Day! Since today is Monday, only a few days remain for shopping and gift-giving. While it's fun, it can also be stressful if you're in a relationship and depressing if you're not. That's where this post comes in: what if you could make easy, affordable beauty kits with just a few products? While everyone loves flowers and chocolate, they're expected and sometimes a little boring. These kits are perfect for the girls in your life - who doesn't want to get a little bag full of beauty? We sometimes forget that Valentine's Day can be about showering our friends with love and adoration, too - it doesn't just have to be about romance! Or, why not make one for yourself? They're adorable and are sure to get you in the mood to celebrate Valentine's.

Quick Chat: A Huge Drugstore Haul and Weekend Makeup Looks!

I did a little shopping today and popped into stores like Target and Walmart to pick up some new goodies from brands like Revlon, Maybelline, Nyx, Milani, and more. I posted a photo on Instagram of the entire haul:

Many of these will be featured in upcoming reviews, Valentine's Day posts, high end/drugstore comparisons, and makeup looks. For now, I've broken down the haul into some of the products I'm most excited to try out. Read on for more!

The Solution: How To Beat The February Winter Blues!

So, February is here, winter is in full swing, and for most of us Spring is still depressingly far away. If you're feeling unmotivated, tired, and stuck in your daily routine, then you're not the only one. But it doesn't have to be that way! Today, I'm offering up my tried-and-true, well tested methods to beat the winter blues.

Too Faced Palette Review Extravaganza!

Before I get into the review, I just have a quick announcement. You may notice that the site looks different - it's been completely redesigned! I hope you like it.

I have something super exciting to talk about today - Too Faced palettes which I've just purchased! One is an eyeshadow palette, Boudoir Eyes, and one is a face palette, No Makeup Makeup. They're all so beautiful that I couldn't resist any of them!

So, which palette do you need? What are they like? Which one is the best?  Read on and let's get started!

Stila In The Moment Eye Shadow Palette Review!

I promised I'd keep you guys up to date with what I think of the products I purchased in a recent (giant) Sephora haul. Today I'm bringing you my thoughts on the Stila In The Moment palette!

So, what's it like? How does the shadow apply? Do you really need this palette to complete your collection? And if you choose to pass it up, what are you missing out on?

Oily Skin Part 2: Skincare Must-Haves!

After starting off with my top 5 makeup essentials for oily skin, I decided to continue the series with my top 5 skincare must haves. There are so many amazing skincare options out there that it was incredibly difficult to choose just 5, but I feel confident that the products I've picked will make an awesome routine for anyone out there with oily/combo skin. Once you have a great core routine, you can always add in products whenever you need them. 

Stila CC Cream Review + Swatches!

Today I'll be reviewing Stila's CC Cream, an all-in-one makeup and skincare product that's designed to colour correct and even out skin tone.

When I posted this photo on Instagram, I told you guys that I'd be reviewing and talking about some of the products from my recent Sephora haul.

Well, I'm not going back on my promise! I'm going to start with Stila's CC Cream, and you'll see reviews on the Origins skincare set, the Boscia set, and the Josie Maran products very soon, as well as more.

Winter Lip Care Routine + Best Balms For Dry Lips!

Everyone knows how annoying it can be to have dry, cracked, and chapped lips in the winter. For me, it means avoiding lip colour to make sure I'm not calling attention to the flaky skin. But what if you didn't have to put away all of your lipsticks during the colder months? Today, I'm going to be talking about my lip care routine - and how to banish cracks and dryness for good!

Bioderma Sebium Skincare Review!

I'm excited to talk about the Bioderma Sebium skincare range, designed for those with oily, acne-prone, or combination skin. I'll be reviewing the 4 products I've picked up from the collection, all of which I've been using for some time. I hope this helps anyone who's looking for new skincare items, or has been wondering if Bioderma products are the right way to go. Let's get started!

Top Tips + Routine for Long, Healthy, Shiny Hair!

I decided to start growing out my hair a little over a year ago, around Thanksgiving 2012. Since then, I've learned a lot. Although it can take a lot of time and effort to grow out your hair, I think it's totally worth it if it's something you're interested in. And no, you don't have to have perfect genes and take tons of vitamins to transform rough, damaged hair into long, healthy hair. It's all about your hair care routine and the steps you take to keep your hair in the best condition possible. I'm going to show you the products I use in and out of the shower, as well as give you my top tips for gorgeous hair!

Oily Skin Part 1: Makeup Essentials!

I have combination skin. I have some really oily areas around my nose and in my t-zone, and then some drier patches on my cheeks and forehead. So while I can definitely relate to both people with dry and oily skin, one of my least favourite feelings is when my makeup starts to slip and slide off throughout the day. That's where these products come in! I have 5 simple oily skin essentials to help out those of you who are noticing that your makeup is fading, your skin is getting shiny, and you're touching up with powder all the time throughout the day. These products have certainly helped me, and I've used them on days when my skin is a sensitive, broken out, oil-producing powerhouse, as well as on days when my skin is calmer and more combination than oily. Hope these help you guys out!

1. Let's start with the basics - primer!

These two primers are my absolute favourite for keeping oil at bay. Both the NYX Pore Filler and the Benefit Porefessional (I have the little baby deluxe size) have a similar function. They fill in any large pores that are often caused by excess oil, they make your skin feel amazingly smooth, they provide an awesome base for foundation and concealer, and they keep you shine-free for a long time. Adding one of these under your makeup in the morning will prolong the wear of it, meaning less fading and less touchups.

Welcome to Inner Sparkle!

I'm so excited about starting this blog!

My name is Allie, and I'm from Canada.
I have a passion for everything beauty related: makeup, skincare, hair products, nail products, and so much more. But I also believe that beauty isn't just about what's on the surface; it's about feeling good, standing tall, and being confident in your own skin.

That's why I decided to create a beauty blog; I wanted to share my love of makeup with others, while passing along my favourite tips and products. If I can use my experiences to save someone the time & money it takes to find the right beauty products and techniques, this blog is fulfilling it's purpose! I also wanted to use my beauty knowledge to help other people feel good about themselves. Sometimes, something as simple as finding the right foundation or discovering a gorgeous new eyeshadow is all you need for a major confidence boost.