Japanese brush haul - Chikuhodo & Koyudo first impressions

I recently made a brush order from CD Japan to try out some new Japanese makeup brushes. Previously, my Japanese brush experience has solely been based on my Hakuhodo brushes, and I thought it was time to expand my horizons. Like Hakuhodo, Chikuhodo and Koyudo brushes are made by hand using traditional calligraphy brush techniques near Kumano, Japan. 

Brushes L to R: Koyudo BP 010, Koyudo powder brush, Koyudo BP 035, Chikuhodo Z-5

These brushes are brand new to me and I quickly snapped these pictures with my phone after I unwrapped my package. Stay tuned for higher quality pictures and comparisons to other brushes in my collection. 

I ordered from CD Japan and chose to ship internationally with FedEx. Everything was packed well and shipped quickly. 

Brushes L to R: Koyudo BP 035, Chikuhodo Z-5, Koyudo powder brush, Koyudo BP 010 

Jordana Easyliner for Eyes automatic eyeliner pencil - Khaki & Coffee Bean

 
I love trying out affordable retractable eyeliner pencils, so I picked up 2 Jordana Easyliner for Eyes eyeliners last time I was at Walgreens. I chose Coffee Bean, a matte dark brown, and Khaki, a cool toned grey. These retail for $2.49 each.

Pros:

• Affordable automatic eyeliner pencil option
• Pretty good color selection (no nude shade)
• Emollient enough to apply smoothly, waxy enough to stay put
• Easy to tightline with - doesn't clump up in the lashes

Cons: 

• Transfer to the lower lashline after 6-8 hours of wear (mild to moderate)
• I don't live close to a Walgreens (have to stop in when I visit my mom)

NEWBEAUTY Amazon promo code for prime day - my picks

Hi guys! Today only (7/15/2015) Amazon is offering a promo code for select luxury beauty makeup,  brushes, skincare, and other beauty items for Prime Day. Prime members can use the code NEWBEAUTY once for 35% off. You can click here to see the items available for this promotion (not an affiliate link, just a deal junkie).

There are quite a few things available and you can only use the code once, so I wanted to share my picks:

1. Real Techniques Starter Set - $6.72

The Real Techniques Starter Set (not an affiliate link) includes the base shadow brush, deluxe crease brush, accent brush, fine liner brush, brow brush, and case. Amazon has it for $10.34 regular price, which comes out to $6.72 with the promo code. Considering Ulta has it for $17.99, it is a pretty great deal.

2. Real Techniques Travel Essentials Set - $7.27

The Real Techniques Travel Essentials Set (not an affiliate link) includes the essential foundation brush, multi task brush, domed shadow brush, and a case. Amazon has it for $11.19 regular price, which comes out to $7.27 with the 35% off promo code. Ulta also sells this set for $17.99.