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Wednesday, May 28, 2014

The Balm Cosmetics Mary-Lou Manizer Product Review

Do you use a highlighter after applying makeup? If someone would've mentioned the word highlighter to me a couple of years ago, I would've immediately thought of highlighter pens I used in school. HaHaHa Highlighters highlight, illuminate and give skin a beautiful glow.

I just recently started dabbling with highlighters, so I'm no expert. I've tried Etude House & MAC in the past, but when I came across The Balm's Mary-Lou Manizer ($24) on a beauty blog I was immediately smitten with it. It seemed "richer" and more "polished" than the others I've tried.

My skin has made vast improvements over the years, by using better skincare products. My "without" picture looks really good, but this champagne gold highlighter gives my skin a really nice glow over my makeup. I love the results and would highly recommend it. I also love the packaging. It comes in a round mirrored compact. The compact is very lightweight (think plastic, but it doesn't look cheap).

foundation: urban decay naked skin #6 / concealer: benefit boi-ing #3 / lipstick: marc jacobs neo-noir lip gel
highlighter: the balm cosmetics mary-lou manizer on cheeks and nose

Sweet-Bittersweet-NotSweet
supersweet(run & buy it) sweet(really good,buy it) bittersweet(ok, issues)not sweet(not good,don't buy this stuff)
  The Balm Cosmetics Mary-Lou Manizer Highlighter Luminizer is Sweet
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88 comments


  1. Nice review, now I wanna buy it! :D

    http://imaginarymi.blogspot.com/

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  2. This looks so cute, very benefit-esque. You've been reviewing a lot of The Balm lately, I must give them a go. The swatch looks so lovely and shimmery (but without being too glittery) on your finger. I think it gives your face a really nice, light glow. Lovely. Rosemary x

    rosemaryofelephants.blogspot.com

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  3. It looks really nice! The packaging is beautiful too!
    Love your lip color Kim, it looks great on you <3

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  4. So pretty! Highlighter is often a step I skip but when I use it I always like the result. Guess I'm just lazy! X

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  5. I never use one of these, haha. But, I just forget that maybe I should use one. Looks gorgeous on you, but you look gorgeous anyways, love the lip colour as well. This sounds like a fab product doll, I hope you have a sweet day Xxx

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  6. Hmmm, I need to try some highlighters...I do have a shimmery one that I need to use more.

    The Dragonfruit Diaries

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  7. Your skin does look good, really healthy. I like the glow of this product. Lovely review again!
    x Sandra

    www.morestylethanfashion.com

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  8. Ooooooooo....Kim, I agree with the comments above. I love the glow it gives you. I do use highlighters, but not everyday. Usually for night time outings. This one sounds good.
    And OMG! Highlighter pens! You crack me up!

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  9. That highlighter looks great on you Kim!

    I'd have noooo idea how to even use a highlighter haha!

    Since I spent the time figuring out the world of BB creams and finding a goodie, I hardly ever wear makeup any more either. I'm getting very lazy with my routine :P

    Away From The Blue

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  10. Hm I have never used a highlighter. Looks quite interesting though. Should try it. But probably it is more appropriate for a night makeup. You look so lovely on the last 2 photos and I can see the difference!

    sunandsany

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  11. Highlight makes a big difference it give such a pretty glow. Great review like the product and the packaging is so pretty. You always find awesome pretty products great job.
    http://tifi11.blogspot.com

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  12. This actually looks really nice - I absolutely LOVE the way you review products, it's great!! :)

    Layla xx

    www.sprinklesofstyle.co.uk

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  13. I am smitten by the packaging alone! Thanks for reviewing this brand. I hadn't heard of it before. You are also reminding me to try some of the highlighter samples I have.

    p.s. You still look lovely in that Marc Jacobs lipstick!

    xoxo,
    little luxury list formerly Chic 'n Cheap Living

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  14. Your skin look so glowing and beautiful with this highlight, it's amazing product!

    http://crafty-zone.blogspot.com/

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  15. The highlighter does make a difference! I have to get myself one!

    -Sharon
    The Tiny Heart

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  16. I like to apply highlighter on the cheeks and nose because it gives a different finish to makeup, cute eview Kim

    www.urbanikamoda.blogspot.com

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  17. can i just say that i learn so much when i'm over here. i have never heard of highlighters before either! they are kind of amazing! and i clicked over to your older blog post and the etude house icre cream nail polish is the cutest nail polish i have ever seen!

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  18. I like the effect this highlighter has, subtle but still adds a lovely glow. I am always grateful for your every comment :)

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  19. Love, the packaging so much. Too cute and yes, please, you skin is flawless. Great review doll.

    http://www.thefashionstirfry.com

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  20. Hi Kim, this highlighter looks amazing on you and makes you all glowing! Have a great day and week.
    Julie

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  21. Ooh, you look stunning with or without make up, but you always do such a nice job with your make up! I love the highlighter! Such a pretty glow! I've been debating about trying out a highlighter for a while now, so I'll have to give this one a go. :)

    http://howtomakehome.blogspot.com

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  22. I actually am a HUGE fan of highlighters! It is something I almost always put on. Currently I use Stila's Highlighter and really like it!

    ~Alexis Grace of North On Harper

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  23. Very nice review!
    You look so pretty with the red lisptick honey !^^

    ❤ ✿ MY BLOG ✿ ❤
    Rinako

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  24. This gives such a pretty natural looking glow Kim! That packaging is so fun as well. I only started using a highlighter recently and it really makes a difference!

    Rowena @ rolala loves

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  25. What a cute product and it definitely makes a change! I love how it brightens up your whole face :)
    Also it was really cool to read that you know Mary Kay products and used to use them a lot. Is there any particular product you can recommend?
    xx

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  26. I haven't dabbled much in luminizers but Kim, wow! You officially have me convinced. You already look gorgeous in your without picture but the brightness of your skin in the with shot is just out of this world gorgeous. I am sold!
    xox,
    Cee

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  27. The packaging is adorable, but sadly they don't have my skin tone :(
    xoxo
    ßerry ♥ Stylish  

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  28. Loving your makeup!! And your hot red gloss is to die for!! <3

    I would love it if you drop by my new blog and follow me there too! I will follow back for sure! :)
    http://www.myfashionfootprints.com/

    Charu
    http://www.myglossyaffair.com/

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  29. I love theBalm Cosmetics thanks for sharing your review.
    Beautetude

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  30. You look so pretty dear and love the lippy shade......xoxoxo....^_^

    http://mariahussain.blogspot.com/

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  31. That packaging is really cute! Great review! =)

    http://whattostyle.blogspot.com/

    xoxo,
    Jess

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  32. I've never used a highlighter before but I can tell the difference in your pictures. This may be something I'll let the girls at the makeup counter try on me before I bite the bullet and buy it!

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  33. That's what I thought too when I first heard about it. Then I tried it, but I didn't have good results with it because I wasn't blending it well and ended up looking like Caspar the friendly ghost, haha. I've learned to use less and blend more, so it's working better. Thanks for the review!

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  34. Looks great on you and the packaging is so cute. xx

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  35. nice blog, please follow back
    http://melodyjacob1.blogspot.com/2014/05/yellow-pant-and-denim-shirt.html

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  36. It looks nice on you, though I would have thought you would prefer a liquid highlighter having dry skin. Do you know Oh La Lift by Benefit?
    Baci,
    Coco
    Coco et La vie en rose / Bloglovin / Facebook
    International giveaway: win a sparkle made in Italy

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  37. Using highlighter for makeup is not part of my regular routine but, when I do use it I actually notice it. haha. I wouldn't say it's completely life-changing or anything. But, I would say it makes a difference to those who pay attention. =D
    xo,
    nancy

    http://www.adoretoadorn.com

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  38. Oh, the red looks so so so great on you!!!

    Hugs
    Svetlana from Lavender Star // BlogLovin //
    Instagram // Faceboook

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  39. This is a nice review Kim. I have some but I don't use it that much. Again, I adore the packaging. Like what I told my husband that if ever, ever I got a mugshot, i will look fabulous and not feeling sorry, lol.

    xo
    Sam
    http://fabulouspetite.blogspot.com

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  40. Lol about the highlighter in school comment. I know what you mean because I didn't start using one til a few years ago, but I use MAC highlighters too and have always loved them, but this Mary Lou looks great on you and it's subtle but photographs with a perfect glow. I love the cute retro packaging too. You always review the most adorable products!!

    xoDale
    www.savvyspice.com

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  41. Thanks so much for stopping by and leaving the nice coo ment on my blanket I made! I saw the balm makeup in Duane Reade in NYC & the next time I'm in that area I'm going to check out teir makeup! Enjoy your evening and the rest of the week.
    Julie

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  42. This is one of my favorite highlighters! And it looks gorgeous on you!

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  43. No, I have never tried the highlighter after my makeup. But your reviews is very a deal and getting me there. Its does looks more shining and give the face real fresh and beautifully, Love that the bright Marc Jacobs lipstick, the color is gorgeous. Have a great evening!

    http://www.attraction2fashion.com

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  44. Hi Kim, you just inspired me! I've never used highlighter. You looked beautiful! I'll check this out. :)

    xo Jo

    http://www.whiterosesandcoffee.com

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  45. I LOVE highlighters! my fav is Diors Amber Diamonds but I want to get my hands on this one too!
    http://starvogue84.blogspot.com

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  46. The highlighter looks great on you! I've been playing with highlighters myself. I noticed they show my pores. :(

    http://ahleessa4realz.blogspot.com/

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  47. When I have time, I use the highlighter too, you're right, there's a big difference!!!
    Have a day full of light :)

    xoxo
    www.bellezzefelici.blogspot.com

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  48. Oh, wow, I really like the glow it creates on your skin - so beautiful! x

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  49. It looks awesome...Would definitely love to give this a try

    http://www.beautydiaries.com

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  50. It looks awesome...Would definitely love to give this a try

    http://www.beautydiaries.com

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  51. I have to admit that I really wear highlighter very rarely. But I love it if I'm using it, lol. I like your highlighter and the package! You look great and very natural with it!

    ♘ www.sugarpopfashion.com ♘

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  52. This looks stunning! I have a highlighter but I am so lazy, I never use it. This has inspired me :)

    kstormfashionblog.wordpress.com

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  53. Kim, you always find products in unusual packaging. Highlighters are great especially at this time of the year. I like the way yours is so subtle yet effective and that's a fabulous shade of lipstick too.
    http://missbbobochic.blogspot.co.uk

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  54. I definitely thought you were talking about highlighter pens, too. Ha! Funny. But that's sounds like a great product. I've never heard of it before, maybe I could try it. thanks for sharing.

    http://kintsugioflife.blogspot.com/

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  55. super cute packaging >.<

    WWW.PUTRIVALENTINALIM.BLOGSPOT.COM

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  56. Thanks for this review, I don't think you can ever have too many highlighters :)

    Abby
    www.champagneplans.com

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  57. Great review as always! I've never used a highlighter but I can totally see the difference between using and not using! I might just have to go get this!

    Maggie
    www.PolishedClosets.com

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  58. The product is beautiful and you are gorgeous Kim. That glowing skin and red lips. I love the products that give subtle glow effect. This highlighter looks like a winner.

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  59. I do see a difference it does give you a glow. And yuep the packaging is super cool. I am using Benefit High Beam.

    Allie of ALLIE NYC
    allienyc.com

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  60. Result is unbelievable! Such a fantastic product :))
    Following you baby :*

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  61. Very nice review
    The makeup look
    So pretty, and your ski is gorgeous.
    Great post
    xoxo
    http://stunningchic.com/

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  62. I love it on your skin tone. Does it come in darker shades? Nice review.
    effortlesslady.blogspot.ca

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  63. Ahaha highlighters, it makes me think of a pen too (and I'm 23 years old ooops:p). I have to say I've heard about it, but NO CLUE what it does, so thank you for this article :) I've decided I need one haha! The result is truly stunning, I can really see what it does! Thanks for this article, I always learn when I come here and love that! xx

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  64. It looks great and the packaging is so cute :)

    AJ | www.TheAJMinute.com

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  65. so good effect,very nice review always darling
    I posted a new OUTFIT, I'd love to know your opinion
    would you like to pass from my blog?
    kiss

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  66. That hghtlighter has a cute shade!
    xx

    www.sakuranko.com

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  67. Dude, the packaging on this is sooooo cute! I love how it makes your lippy so bright! Can you just be my personal makeup shopper? :)

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  68. Dude, the packaging on this is sooooo cute! I love how it makes your lippy so bright! Can you just be my personal makeup shopper? :)

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  69. Thanks for your kind review on my last post, Happy Friday!

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  70. it looks like a lovely product! x

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  71. The packaging is so cool-retro. And I am a sucker for cute packaging! Looks good, I might have to try it out.

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  72. I love highlighters they such a healthy glow to your skin! xo

    http://stylesensemoments.blogspot.com/

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  73. Usually I don't apply an highlighter, even though I really like the effect it gives. The one you used seems to be really good. The difference between before and after the application is surprising!
    Kisses
    Oriana

    www.stylexis.com

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  74. I've not tried highlighter yet, but I'm gonna now! You look lovely in both pics, Kim--but you are definitely glowing in the "with" pic--gorgeous! T. http://tickledpinkwoman.blogspot.com

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  75. This looks great! I kinda wanna try it now.

    http://lamentinglizzie.blogspot.com

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  76. Loving the packaging! so adorable :) and also the color is beautiful! Thanks for sharing!
    XOXO

    Milu
    www.hellolupi.blogspot.com

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  77. I have never heard of this brand! It sounds like they make great products though!
    www.amemoryofus.blogspot.com

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  78. Looks amazing
    Love
    Want to follow each other?
    New OASAP Shirt: http://www.oasap.com/t-shirts-vests/12249-colorful-sweet-hearts-printing-turned-cuff-short-sleeve-chiffon-t-shirt.html/?fuid=83245
    Sandy Sandhu

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  79. The highlighter looks great on your skin. Your skin looks more brighter and has a certain glow. Amazing product.

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  80. I've been looking for a good highlight! This looks lovely, great review, I will need to look into it. Gorgeous glow.
    xoxo, Haylee
    http://www.dolledupdaily.com/

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  81. I would have thought of those highlighter we used to "colour" our textbooks and notes with too but fortunately, I know about them from blogs and from frequent window shopping at make up stores. The Balm has really great products though I don't own any personally. This highlighter really looks wonderful on you!

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  82. No I do not use a highlighter after applying makeup. I don't have enough time right now (lol) And when I did I couldn't find a highlighter that looked natural enough. However, I like the way your makeup looks here. By the way, you skin really does look brilliant.

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  83. Your face is really glowing with that that highlighter. It really does make a difference if you use it. Have a great day Kim!! :)

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  84. Very cute packaging, and very gorgeous results! Do you use the highlighter all over, or just in a few key spots?
    Chic on the Cheap

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  85. I love the packaging (such a cute vintage feel!!) and it looks amazing on you. I don't use highlighters often but I do love them. RMS is my favorite. :)

    xx
    Heel in Mint

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  86. i haven't used any true illuminizers, but have one of those blushes that has highlighting mixed together.

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  87. When I worked with Smashbox I used highlighters, however after I finished the product and no longer worked with the brand, I guess i did not find the need to use it and never bought it again.
    You have an amazing eye for products, I have seen some really cool and unheard/unseen of products in your blog that i had not seen anywhere else.

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