Best beauty accessories according to redditors

I know everyone’s joking about r/popping but seriously some zits need to be lanced.

1. Pierce top with a lancet.
   
   
2. Squeeze junk out (preferably with the looped wire extractor).
   
   
3. Apply salicylic acid (wipe with a Stridex pad).
   
   
4. Apply a hydrocolloid bandage (Nexcare Acne Cover, or cut to size Dynarex Dressing).

The internet can teach you!

You don't need to drop $54 on an Urban Decay palette to figure out how to put on eyeshadow. Drugstore mascara is often touted as some of the best. Most people who are just starting out only need a couple things - get some Real Techniques brushes and a couple different drugstore options and you can be off to see the wizard before you know it.

Try /r/makeupaddiction, /r/beautydiagrams, /r/indiemakeupandmore, and especially /r/howdoibeauty (which is a closed sub, but you just have to message the mods for permission).

You can do it!

Great starter set -- Real Techniques Starter Set. Only $15

http://www.amazon.com/Real-Techniques-RLT-1406-real-Starter/dp/B004TSFE28

Airless pump bottles. I transfer all of my jars to them reguardless.. I hate exposing the product to open air daily, and these also scrape the tube clean on the way up. I have indeed dropped them, they're durable enough. Highly reccomend.

The one and only

There are spatulas to scrape out the last week of foundation from glass bottles, highly recommend.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0069VYSFM/ref=redir_mdp_mobile/184-6231044-5804135

For anyone not in the know, 200 organic Japanese, non-bleached cotton pads, $6.15 from Amazon.

Yes, 200 pads for 6 bucks. I've been using this exact brand for the last two months and the cotton is great.

here you go!

Here are some good brush possibilities, in ascending order by price:

The Ecotools Bamboo Finishing Kabuki brush, which makes a terrific shaving brush; you can pick it up for $7.50 in the cosmetics section of (e.g.) Walgreens.

In the $8-$14 range, any of the Omega boar brushes would do a good job, and those are available from many sources. I prefer the brushes without the dyed band---the plain white brushes---but both work well. Read this beginner's guide to boar brushes on proper use. These are soaked before each use: just wet well with hot water and leave it sitting while you shower. I really like the Pro 48 (10048); it's large, but I still find it comfortable for face lathering.

The Omega 11047 boar/badger brush, which you soak for boar content, but then acts like a badger---and makes a good travel brush as well as an everyday brush. $17 plus shipping, but you can buy something in addition for little or no extra shipping charge.

One of the HJM black synthetic brushes from ConnaughtShaving.com for $25, including shipping. (US residents do not pay VAT.) This is a supeb brush, as gentle as any silvertip and quite efficient at lather creation.

The Whipped Dog silvertip badger: $26 including shipping with your choice of resin handle. The 22mm size is the best all-round size.

1:1
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00I3VHKVK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_QSeKyb1B3J0CC

I actually got a super tiny one from amazon for like 7 bucks? Seeing how much extra product I was able to get out of tubes made it worth it for me. But I’ve also seen super tiny kitchen spatulas. If you’re really in a bind you can use q-tips and pitch them afterwards. It’ll be a bit messier on your hands, but hey, it works!


Link to Here’s the handy dandy spatula boi I bought!

Cheap Amazon foundation buffing brushes that work the same, if not better, than expensive brushes. I've spent $10 on these brushes and I've also gone out and spent $50 on 1 brush, but I always go back to these brushes.

Edit: added link

Anything other than this is pretty much a waste of money imo

I was feeling gross about always putting my hands/the tiny spatula into my giant tub of AIO Snail goo, so I got this pump. Took a while to load up, but I'm excited to have a more sanitary way to dispense my beloved!

Amazon link. Several vendors have them.

You will be pretty much saying "Hey mold and bacteria, come play in my foundation bottle!" It is not safe nor worth it to dilute products with water. If you want to get every last drop, try a beauty spatula!

I absolute love my Neutrogena Healthy Skin in Natural Beige (60) but that no-pump situation has made my life so messy. Like, the last straw was pouring a good 10% of the foundation on my mixing plate and then I lost it. I got this airless pump on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CWY33U0/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 the best thing about it it's that it is reusable, so I'm totally putting my Maybelline Matte & Poreless next.

I am going to be more inclined to buy pump-less foundations in the future because now my messy ass cannot pour foundation all over my vanity.

Has anyone else done this for their pump-less foundations?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hxuE-WE17Fg

http://www.steam-engine.org/coil.asp?r=0.642&hfnw=20&awg=26&id=2.5

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heat_flux

https://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1488353677&sr=8-3&keywords=cotton+puff

https://www.temcoindustrial.com/kanthal-a1-resistance-wire.html

https://www.fasttech.com/products/0/10030588/6701601-stainless-steel-ceramic-tweezer-for-e-cigarettes

https://www.fasttech.com/products/1243300

https://www.fasttech.com/product/1926001

https://www.fasttech.com/products/0/10012406/2134501-derringer-styled-rda-rebuildable-dripping-atomizer

Click on all those things and if you understood everything you're a master jedi, nothing can stop you.

I used to pop with my fingers, but sometimes would struggle to pop and bruise my skin around the cyst.

Got some hoop tools other week and been a firm convert. Pop so easily now.

Eg: https://www.amazon.co.uk/d/Beauty/Simply-Gorgeous-Design-Blackhead-Remover-Comedone-Extractor/B006Z96OI2

I didn't get that exact one, but similar.

i think the spatula brand has a thinner one for concealers and looking back i would've gotten that one since i could've used that one for foundation and concealer

i bought the bottle i have in japan i think, but this is the closest i could find. it's great bc it's a vacuum pump

spatula: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0069VYSFM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
bottle:
https://www.amazon.com/TOPWEL-Refillable-Airless-Vacuum-Lotion/dp/B0187LGYC6/ref=sr_1_6_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1510124840&sr=8-6&keywords=travel+vacuum+pump+bottles&dpID=31iDXZrwfFL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch

Girl save your knife and get a beauty spatula! they're awesome for all containers and even getting into foundation bottle corners :)

I've broken the pump on my Fenty foundation, so I got a foundation bottle on Amazon to decant it into.

For lipstick, I've seen people melt them down into new containers and apply with a lip brush. Safiya did a video or two reforming lipstick bits into a whole new Franken-shade with a lipstick mould and new lipstick tube.

That's all well and good, but how about something like this, which I recently bought (don't judge me)? 82 cents with free shipping, from hong kong to the eastern US... does not compute...

i strongly suggest going over to /r/HoodedEyes. there are some good techniques there, and practice every day an eye look. I HIGHLY recommend watching this Wayne Goss tutorial on hooded eyes: the straight line technique. I think this will be especially beneficial to your eye shape.

I'd also highly recommend that you learn tightlining. That's actually a pretty simple technique to master but will make your eyes pop.

As for colors for your eyeshadow, i think you'll be most happy with a light base plus one or two darker brown colors, just enough to give the illusion of an eye lift, but nothing terribly dark to make you cringe years later after you have mastered the technique. I personally like to use a light beige base color plus another brown that is basically a contour color because that basically contours the eye in a pretty nice shape but is not noticeable.

As for tools, I was really impressed with this set as a beginner's set. The blending brush is definitely nice.

Now, as for the other stuff, your eyebrows are very nice. They're pretty neat as it is, so it's no big deal. You probably don't even need anything done with those.

As for foundation... honestly, go to sephora/nordstrom/ulta as many times as you can and get color matched. Get samples. Test at home, ask for opinions both IRL and on here, if desired. Go again, and try to get different color matchers each time. Also, avoid that stupid Sephora IQ gimmick device. If you have any redness at all, it'll match you to an incredibly dark color.

To help you answer your questions about tone... ask yourself what colors look best on you. It's a bit difficult for me to get a decent idea of your tone with one photo. But wearing different colors and seeing how your skin looks can give you a decent indication. If you have trouble figuring out what tone the clothing is, you can probably google it and see what others say.

But... going off the one photo, you look more warm.

Organic and unbleached prrefrably. I use primarily puffs .

This one
https://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1478911568&sr=8-2&keywords=puffs+cotton

Study ohm's law and battery safety. If used improperly, mech mods can become a pipebomb.

That being said, here's a list of stuff you should get.

• stingray x clone
  
  
• RBA suggestions:
  
  
• mephisto v2 (clone)
  
  
• mutation x v2 (authentic)
  
  
• lancia clone (clone)
  
  
• billow RTA (authentic)
  
  
• samsung 25r x2
  
  
• nitecore d2
  
  
• ohm meter
  
  
• kanthal:
  
  
• 26ga kanthal
  
  
• 24ga kanthal
  
  
• japanese cotton pads
  
  
• precision screwdriver set
  
  
• ceramic tweezers

I've been using the same bag of Labo Puffs for well over a year now, probably almost two(In May it will be two years, if memory serves) I got it from Amazon Prime, just make sure that you select a U.S.-based vendor or else it will get shipped from Japan and could take a week to 10 days.

I've had great success with these-there's no "fresh cotton taste" and the fibers are well combed/aligned which greatly assists with wicking, be it regular or Scottish Roll technique.

Nevermind I realized I can just copy the brushes I used and put it here haha but you absolutely don’t need these, all you need is a regular blending brush, a slightly smaller blending brush and maybe a brush to apply the darker shades in the corner.

Primarily
•Sigma E40 Tapered Blending (its really the only tapered blending brush I have but tbh it’s not THAT good, just a medium sized tapered blending brush. Not worth the money alone but I got it in a kit)
•Sigma E30 Pencil brush to darken the crease.
•Sephora brand pointed blending brush with the label rubbed off also Sephora brand small angled brush for brows. They were both in the same set
• a brush I got on amazon in a set. The brand is Lamora and the name on the brush is just ‘blending brush).
•Sigma E65 Small Angle to carve brows
If I’m being honest the softest brush here is the amazon and Sephora one, but maybe I just know nothing about brushes. These specific sigma brushes I listed have nothing special! Hope this list helped anyway! : )

http://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1458490020&sr=8-3&keywords=ko+gen+do

This I bought it like two years ago and it's still basically full.

http://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-Puff-200pc/dp/B000TCD51A

This gets recommended the most.

Not a product but I recommend these plastic eye droppers for liquids/serums. I have the 30ml size, which looks like it's currently out of stock. I also use airless pump bottles for my cream/gels. Note: I just realized the airless pump bottles are not currently available on Amazon.)

 

I transfer all my skincare into their respective containers right away just because I have a habit of dropping things like the glass bottles and some skincare items are pricey so I don't want to lose them due to being accident prone. I can also save shelf space since my medicine cabinet won't accommodate the size of things like my Hada Labo Hyaluronic Lotion Moist or Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence. Now I can keep the larger bottles in a drawer/closet and keep the smaller items on the shelf. When it's time to travel I already have them in acceptable sized containers so I just toss them into the bag and I'm ready to go.

Edit: Added airless pump bottles not available :(

EcoTools has an excellent beginner eye makeup brush set: http://www.amazon.com/EcoTools-Piece-Essential-Eye-Brush/dp/B0030HMQTS/ref=sr_1_2?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1449440195&sr=1-2&keywords=ecotools

So does Real Techniques: http://www.amazon.com/Real-Techniques-RLT-1406-real-Starter/dp/B004TSFE28/ref=sr_1_2?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1449440221&sr=1-2&keywords=real+techniques+brushes

Love these

Damn near lifetime supply, and they have been better than rayon for me.

I just ordered 3 of these, each hold 78 or so bottles of Reaper paints and I believe they fit all the common brands.

Acrylic Display Rack


HERE is a pic from the reaper forum of them in use.

You could get one of these. Worth every cent.

Sorry for the bad quality, it looked okay on my phone but it looks pretty bad on laptop ;_;

I used a beauty spatula to scrape out as much product as I could. Unfortunately the shape of the spatula didn't allow for me to get the product at the top of the bottles.

The e.l.f Flawless Finish foundation is actually the first foundation I ever bought! I've been using it since senior year high school and have continuously repurchased. It's really cheap and can easily be sheered out/ built up so it's a favorite :-)

The YSL Le Teint Touche Éclat was a gift, and the shade was too light for me, so I only used it in combination with my Lancome Teint Idole (which is too dark lol... I had no idea Sephora color matched so off). Mixed together they give a really comfortable, skin-like medium coverage look. This is a bottle of the old formulation, and I haven't repurchased because A) apparently the new formulation isn't as good as the old one? and B) I'm not sure if the shades are the same as the old ones. Now I'm stuck with half a bottle of the Lancome foundation that's too dark for me lol.

Vape shop employee told me he worked for wicknvape which makes cotton bacon and they literally take these ORGANIC Cotton Makeup Puff, Medium https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_ZGuQwbG58PC58

And the tear off both sides and package it...

You can do the same thing just remove the flat sides

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000TCD51A/ref=mp_s_a_1_2_a_it?qid=1457904755&sr=8-2&keywords=puff+cotton+organic&pi=SY200_QL40

Been using this for over a year. Love it

I second ELF - super soft and inexpensive. I also ordered this eye set off Amazon a few weeks ago and am loving them. I'm an eyeshadow newbie and they've really upped my blending game!

I use this comedone extractor kit, and the one I used is the one on the far right that has the pointy tip at the other end. Yes it helps the pop, it’s much easier and more comfortable than using my fingers.

My wife found it as a flash sale on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/BESTOPE-Blackhead-Remover-Comedone-Extractor/dp/B019SVHLEY/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1478746937&sr=8-1&keywords=bestope

Amazon! Non-affiliate link here

You can pick up a beauty spatula in a ton of places - even walmart carries them in the US. In Canada, you can get them from Amazon (non affiliate link)

Ok so everyone has pretty much covered what I think are the best ways to save money. I have one last one.

Buy this: Mini Spatula (or something similar to it)

It's perfect for scooping out every last bit of cream/aio/essence/etc when decanting or finishing a product. And of course, always cut open bottles to get every drop of goodness. :)

Sephora sells them (although apparently not online) for $6. They look pretty much like this: http://www.amazon.com/Every-Beauty-Drop-Spatula/dp/B0069VYSFM

Not too long ago I spent $10 on Amazon, buying two things that will inevitably save me a ton of money: one was a foundation spatula and the other was ....these things, however I wouldn't recommend these exact ones, because they're actually quite small.


But seriously, these are good investments for us skincare addicts!!

You know that tool that doctors use that has a small hole in the center? It has a handle, and the doctor takes it and pushes it into things like these, and sometimes large blackheads to get the dirt to surface more.

I want to use that tool SOOO bad on this guy. but then id throw up


Edit: I guess theyre just called Blackhead Removal Tools

Looks like you picked up a referral link somewhere along the way. Here's the product you linked to without the referral:

http://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-Puff-200pc/dp/B000TCD51A/

https://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_2_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1522219456&sr=1-2&keywords=organic+japanese+cotton+pads

ORGANIC Cotton Makeup Puff, Medium https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_vh0qybW3389W0
Not prime, sorry

https://www.amazon.de/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-200pc-japan/dp/B000TCD51A/

I hope you're 18 or otherwise I'm going to report you to the authorities.

Here for you, all hail to the cotton lord savior.

https://www.amazon.de/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-200pc-japan/dp/B000TCD51A

Honestly (honestly) I've actually had good luck with cheapo Amazon brushes. Granted I love my IT Cosmetics blending brush, but for the price I don't love it thaaat much more than my cheaper brushes.

This is probably my favorite set that I've bought, and it comes in a nice cardboard tube that will be useful for traveling. It has over 6000 reviews and a 4.8 star rating!

I have another set that I got from r/mue, but I haven't come across it yet on Amazon (pretty sure that's where it was originally from). I bought the set because it was cheap and pretty, but I actually use them every day! So I wouldn't shy away from cheaper sets. Manufacturers are able to make pretty good brush sets for pretty cheap these days!

I don't use many face brushes, but I love my RT powder brush. So big and fluffy!

There's not a single makeup wearing person out there who didn't have to practice their eye makeup a LOT before finally getting the hang of it, so don't give up yet!! I have a few tips to offer that helped me improve my own eyeshadow skills. First things first, investing in a good quality set of eyeshadow brushes will make a big difference. There's absolutely no need to buy the most expensive ones available, just look for brushes with synthetic fibers and a set that offers a decent range of sizes and shapes. (an ideal starter set should at least include a medium/large fluffy blending brush, a crease brush, a lid brush, a shader brush, an angled blending brush and perhaps a small liner brush) I've bought great brushes on Amazon for super cheap that I happen to like even better than some of the more expensive ones I own. Morphe also has really nice brushes that are pretty affordable. Good brushes make applying eyeshadow effortless, and with a little practice and trial and error you'll be a pro! Next, make sure you're using something to prime your eyelids before applying any shadow. I find that a thin layer of concealer on your eyelid/brow bone, set with a little translucent powder, works great for this purpose. It's not really necessary to buy a primer just for eyeshadow, in my opinion (unless it's glitter based, you'll need a specific primer for that). Make sure you're starting with the lightest shades first and ending with dark shades. Apply a only little bit of shadow at a time with very light pressure, and blend, blend, blend it out good using small, circular motions. I like to clean my brush off on a dry towel before applying each new shadow color to prevent the shades from becoming muddy. While thorough blending is the key to gorgeous shadow looks, it is very possible to blend your eye makeup too much, so be mindful to not overdo it. You want each shade to look seamless among one another, rather than just solid blocks of color on your eyelid. I would try out some simple eye looks that use just 2-3 basic shades, and once you've mastered those, start experimenting with more adventurous shadow colors and textures. Now, on to eyeliner. It's important to know what styles of liner will flatter your eye shape the best. I, for one, have never been able to make winged liner work with my eye shape, despite many attempts (sadly). Try out different eyeliner formulas, like liquid, pencil or gel to figure out what you like the best. Always take your sweet time while applying eyeliner, rushing may result in uneven and shaky lines which are hard to fix without messing up the rest of your eye makeup. Lastly, just have fun with it. Makeup is all about creativity and self expression! Hope these tips help you, keep trying and I promise you'll see improvement!!

You need:

• Wire - Zivipf or The Crazy Wire Co are highly recommended
  
• Wick - japanese cotton (like Muji: easy to work with, cheap and available from ebay or amazon). Alternatives: regular organic cotton, rayon.
  
• tools to wrap your coils around - a precision screwdriver set or a coiling tool (like this or this)
  
• good scissors
  
• (ceramic) tweezers
  
• ohm meter (optional, you can measure the resistance on a regulated mod, but I highly recommend buying one)
  
• flush cutter
  
  You can buy these items separately (for cheap via Fasttech, or domestically), or, if you don't mind the markup, in DIY kits (like this Coil Master kit).
  
  Rebuilding isn't that hard, and it's so much cheaper than buying coil heads. There are tons of Youtube tutorials (or written ones) to help you get into it. Building and wicking RTA's is a tiny bit trickier than building RDA's because of the size of the build deck and potential leaking issues, but that shouldn't discourage you.
  
  I can't recommend the Aromamizer, because I don't have one, but in my opinion a tank with a velocity style deck is a good idea. You can get an RBA deck for the TFV4, too.
  
  Edit: Steam Engine is extremely useful.

Asian cotton pads, such as SELENA or Muji ones are quite different and don't tend to fuzz apart. I have cheapo ones from Daiso that aren't layered like these, and even they hold up much better than their Western counterpart. Have you tried?

There are also water activated cleansing cloths but those have their own stuff already so I'm not sure you'd want to use micellar water with those.

I use the Hada Labo Rohto Hadalabo Gokujun Hyaluronic Lotion Moist. I find that if I apply it before a sheet mask the hyaluronic acid really helps my skin absorb the sheet mask essence. You can also use the Hada Labo lotion to make your own sheet mask with puffs like these. There are step-by-step directions in the first review on the Amazon page.

here ya go :D

Hi, I have pretty similar coloring to you (very fair skin with strawberry blonde hair) to you so here's stuff I like to use:

• Urban Decay Naked Basics palette - I love this palette as the shades look beautiful on anyone. I use the Real Techniques Eye Brush set, I do a layer of Foxy all over my lid first (makes blending super easy), then Faint on my outer socket, then blend it in with Naked 2 over the rest of the lid. I finish it up with Venus under my eyebrow arch. Personally I love the Real Techniques brushes, I think the eye set is great as it makes smokey eye really easy.
  
• For primer I use Benefit Porefessional, however I'm pretty sure this L'Oreal one is a dupe for it and is half the price. However if your skin is oily I'd recommend No7 Beautifully Matte, my mum has super oily skin and this is the only one that works for her, it's almost chalky in consistency and really sticks to the skin. Primer makes the world of difference, I even wear it when I can't be bothered to do actual makeup as it smooths my skin out.
  
• I just bought some L'Oreal BB Powder and am loving it, it works with or without makeup. Everyday I use it over primer and it also makes foundation look natural over the top.
  
• I shape my eyebrows myself (it's turned into an obsession) and when I fill them in I use Benefit Brow Zings in light. It works amazingly well for my hair colour, however yours is a bit darker so you might want to look for a specific redhead brow product. If you are using a powder product I love the brow brush in the above mentioned Real Techniques Eye set.
  
• For blush I use Benetint, if you have reddish hair I think it looks amazing.
  
• Have you ever tried contouring? It's something that has changed my life. I use the contouring brush from the Real techniques core collection with Hoola. A lot of bronzer has shimmer in it which isn't great for contouring. I learn't how to do it via youtube videos, Pixiwoo and Lisa Elridge are the ones I seem to remember being good.
  
• I agree with the other comments about the lower lid liner, I think just the flick on top looks better. I say this as a former kohl addict. But if you want to continue wearing it i'd thicken the line a tiny bit so it's not just on your waterline.
  
• Lips wise there's a Nide range by L'Oreal, the Julianne Moore one is for redheads and is the only nude I've found that works with my hair.
  
  Hope all or some of these are helpful and i'm sure the other addicts here will have some great advice. Also I love your piercings, especially your septum, it's one i've always wanted but i'm not sure that my nose is a good shape for it. Yours looks rad.

This is (an older) photo of mine! Link

It's listed as a nail polish rack on amazon

Spatty daddy (USA)

I've also found the Every Drop spatula for £9.99

and $15.95 US


This blog? reviews the Every Drop spatula and £1 Primark equivalent

Ulta

Amazon

Target

I bought myself one of the Every Drop Beauty Spatulas. I scoop it out into some small jars I bought from Daiso. Definitely worth the investment.

This $14 set off Amazon. Better than the RT, EcoTools, and Morphe brushes that I've used - very velvety and soft, and I haven't experienced any shedding in the past eight+ months that I've used them.

Personally I use this http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000TCD51A/ref=pd_aw_sbs_1?pi=SR115%2C115&refRID=0DT631YNTM8JFJA0G57F

But people swear by koh gen do lol

Fused clapton wicked with Japanese cotton.

As for cheap flavor geared rdas, the Lancia the hobo and the Veritas are all very good.

fasttech is pretty expensive for that. you can find good cotton with free shipping directly from japan at amazon (for half the price). Puff, Muji, Koh Gen Do ... all good stuff.

https://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-Puff-120pc/dp/B000TCEXOS/

I tried most of the fancy stuff (cotton bacon, fiber freaks, nameyouroverpriced cotton) and in the end I am super happy with Koh Gen Do. Do not fall for the marketing blabla...

Have you seen this post where someone repurposed a nail polish rack ($32 shipping included) to store their lippie collection? I sure you could even put your eyeshadow singles, compacts, small WnW palettes, etc. on it as well.

Dat quad- b-a-n-a-n-a-s

The Real Techniques Core Collection and Starter Set are really nice, soft brushes and they're affordable. Both sets come with a travel case.

Here you go.

Throwing my two cents in - Japanese cotton is significantly better than cheap cotton balls.

You can get several years of J cotton for $6 on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_6_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1468700550&sr=8-6&keywords=japanese+cotton

I don't know, I mean, you can get high quality Japanese organic cotton for so cheap, not sure I'd risk it.

http://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1462235385&sr=8-3&keywords=puffs+organic+japanese

Or if you want to get fancy:

http://www.amazon.com/Koh-Gen-Do-Organic-Cotton/dp/B00NU3H3KE/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1462235420&sr=8-1&keywords=ken+do+gen

Either of those packs could easily last you a year or longer for $10 or less. I have been using the Puffs for a long time now and I think it's great cotton, I have some of the Ken Do because people swear by it, but I can't tell the difference honestly.

I started learning by watching youtube videos. You can watch Rip Trippers, VapnFagan, or GrimmGreen(I like this one the most). There are a ton of videos out there, and if you have a vaping channel you watch on Youtube, I bet that they have a video for it.

I would also suggest buying a kit to get started, if you don't have screwdrivers, wire cutters, scissors, and etc, then get something like this if you want to get it all in one go. Otherwise, you can buy it all piece by piece. I would suggest 26 gauge Kanthal to start out.

http://www.steam-engine.org/coil.asp - This is the best site to use for helping you select your build, put in the ohms that you want under the target resistance, select the number of coils(single, dual, triple, and so on), and pick the gauge of your wire under the diameter of wire. In the middle, you will see it says 'inner diameter of coil' that is where you pick the size of the rod, or screwdriver you are wrapping around. If you bought that vape toolkit, I almost always use 2.5mm as my inner diameter. After that, just follow what was shown in the video, cut about a foot of wire, maybe a little more, and start building.

Just remember, you are going to mess up, but so long as you are safe(use that ohm reader), and don't build something stupid low, you should be fine. I assume you are using a regulated mod of some sort, but you still need to check the coils on your ohm reader. If you have any more questions, hit me up.

Also, here is a cheaper toolkit, you will just need to buy wire as well: http://www.lightningvapes.com/products/ultimate-vape-toolkit1

Wire: http://www.lightningvapes.com/collections/kanthal/products/kanthal-a1-resistance-wire?variant=993082744


Also, you will need cotton: http://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1458601743&sr=8-1&keywords=puffs+cotton

That puffs cotton, has lasted me for over a year, and is going near two years.

So they take Japanese cotton that they get for <$9/200pc, put 5(?) of them it in a ziplock bag, stick an ignorant ass sticker of a Chinese stereotype on it, and charge what for it exactly?

This raised my ire. Not only is it stupid, it's also a ripoff. The vaping community really swizzles my dizzles sometimes.

link for the lazy

You certainly are a smart shopper! It's good to know what you want, but sometimes it narrows down your search. That said, I think your options are thus:

| Siegeli| iPV3| Cloupor T8
---|---|----|----
Price| $99.99| $139.99| $139.99
Wattage| 100w | 150w| 150w
Dual Batt.| Yes| Yes| Yes
Magnet Back| Yes| No| Yes?
O-B Charger| No| Yes| Yes?
Flush 510| Yes| Yes| Yes
Silver Option| Yes| Yes| Yes
Black Option| Yes| Yes| Yes


Personally, I would go for the Siegeli. There's an option for an extra magnet back in place of screws that you can get here.

Aside from that, you're going to need:

1. Batteries: I recommend the Samsung 25-R. It can be found as an authentic quite easily and for a decent price, whilst maintaining specs comparable to VTC5s. Alternatively, I've also heard good stuff about the LG HE2, although it seems the 25-R has the edge.
   
2. Wire: I recommend heading over to ebay and buying some TEMCO brand kanthal in 24ga, 26ga, and possibly 28ga. You can usually get around 100 feet of each for around 6 bucks.
   
3. Wick: This is definitely a personal preference. I prefer using Japanese cotton pads, but many people stick with plain old organic cotton balls or rayon. You can find Japanese cotton pads on amazon. Otherwise, you can find organic cotton balls at your local CVS. You can also get a lifetime supply of Rayon for around $12 I believe, but I can't recall where. If you search /r/ecr a bit you'll find it.
   
4. Ohm-meter: A fairly important part of your setup, much more so for mechanical mods, but still good to have. You can find one for around $10 on Fasttech.

Get these. Less then $7 for 180 pads.

these muji ones are great

Use an extractor toollike these

It’s a comedone extractor.
This is the kit I use (but I’m just an amateur)

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019SVHLEY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_8XcKBbSWA3BTS

Hi friend! Something I would suggest for you:

There are single use, sterile diabetic lancets that are probably a better option for lancing; you can get 300 for $7, there may be even cheaper options.

https://smile.amazon.com/Care-Touch-Twist-Lancets-Gauge/dp/B01GGGS8XW/ref=sr_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1542822301&sr=8-4&keywords=diabetic+lancets

You can also get a pretty nice set of tools for under $10:

https://smile.amazon.com/BESTOPE-Blackhead-Remover-Comedone-Extractor/dp/B019SVHLEY/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1542822442&sr=8-3&keywords=skin%2Btools&th=1

I think both of these options may be more gentle on your skin and easier / safer to use.

This is just meant as a friendly suggestion, feel free to disregard!

Here you go.

Read this pretty long post about DE shaving. The "HERE" link inside that post has good information as well.

Some comments about the products you have chosen:


> So I've been looking into buying a DE starter kit and looked at all the suggestions and I've sorted out this much so far.
Razor: DE86bl
Blades: Sampler
Pre-Shave Soap: Glycerine
Alum: Alum
Styptic: Clubman Pinaud

The Edwin Jagger is a very good razor.

The sampler comes only with 2 blades per brand, which could be enough but in my opinion 5 blades per brand would be better. Blade samplers in amazon are somewhat expensive.

Clearly natural is a pre-shave soap which is not necessary, but some people do find them helpful. You use it to wash your face before you lather your shaving cream/soap. You are missing the shaving cream/soap from your list.

Alum again not necessary, but some users like it.

Styptic pencil, do you bleed a lot? I ask because I hardly ever bleed, my blood coagulates really fast. So I have never seen a use for a styptic pencil.

> So for brushes it sounds like boar or badger, which I believe is preferred, hair is the way to go, but then the recommendation for the $75 level is bamboo and at the $100 one of the 2 recommended is synthetic.

The Ecotools bamboo brush is a women's makeup brush. Using it for shaving seems rather extreme. However I'm not sure how its making process differs from a shaving brush, do they use different glue or what. But I have seen threads posted where people say that the brush has died on them. If you are on a very tight budget and want a very soft brush that you can also find locally, then I think the Ecotools is a good option. That being said you can get Omega boar brush for about $10 from various online stores.

> I was looking through some of the threads and somewhere I found someone recommend this set which seemed nice, has a badger brush a little cup for lathering and a thing to hang the brush on to dry and comes with little starter shaving soap (although I have no idea if the soap is any good). So thoughts on that set and any inputs on brushes would be appreciated.

I don't think that recommendation had many upvotes. The brush is a pure badger brush and it's also prone to excessive shedding. The soap is nothing special. A brush stand isn't necessary. After you are done shaving thoroughly rinse the brush with running water from the tap, shake out the excess water, and use a towel to dry the tips of the brush, leave the brush standing on its base in a open space to air dry. The apothecary mug is not necessary either. It's mainly intended to hold the soap puck. However most shaving soaps will come in their own containers. The mug can also be quite small so when you are loading your brush you end up banging your fingers against the sides. I wouldn't recommend this set.

> And then lastly, how important are aftershaves? Are they just to smell nice or does it help you skin take a breather after threateningly rubbing sharp stuff all over it? My main mental picture of aftershave never having used it before is the scene from Home Alone, so feel free to educate me.

There are many different kinds of aftershave products; alum block, afershave splash, aftershave balm, moisturizing cream, moisturizing oil like jojoba oil, unrefined shea butter, and witch hazel. You pretty much have to try which works for you, but I'd start with a cheap aftershave balm like the Nivea sensitive aftershave balm (if you get satisfactory results with it you don't have to explore the other options unless you want to).

In the Home Alone he used aftershave splash. I'm not really a fan of these, the alcohol can be too drying for your skin and they are often more heavily scented which can irritate your skin. Some users do love them though, but I'd say they are for normal to oily skin. I like to use the other type of products, such as the aftershave balm, it soothes/heals and moisturizes your skin.

Let's not wait that long, http://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A

This is everything I Use.

I got ORGANIC Cotton Makeup Puff, Medium because of the price, and it works great. its organic japanese cotton pads. i dont have much to compare it against though.

Puff Organic Cotton seems to be the standard for almost everyone I know. Cotton Bacon and other cotton "specifically for vaping" have all seemed to be a massive waste of money in my experience. Learn how to properly wick and organic cotton pads are the cheapest and best way to go.

Where did you get the racks at?

Edit: Nevermind, I found a few that will work (on Amazon).

Here for those interested:

http://www.amazon.com/Nail-Polish-Table-Display-Bottles/dp/B0052FZ3CI/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1396995630&sr=8-11&keywords=nail+polish+rack

http://www.amazon.com/Nail-Polish-Organizer-Holds-Bottles/dp/B00GBC0JVG/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1396995704&sr=8-7&keywords=nail+polish+rack

http://www.amazon.com/Nail-Polish-Table-Display-Bottles/dp/B0052FXPVY/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1396995704&sr=8-4&keywords=nail+polish+rack

http://www.amazon.com/Spectrum-Wall-Mountable-Black-Scroll-Spice/dp/B001E8TLKC/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1396995704&sr=8-5&keywords=nail+polish+rack

I'm brand new here, so I haven't been glammed yet, BUT I will be glamming/running a contest soon! You're so generous to host giveaways for us newbies :D Anyways, I'd really like these so I can get better at falsies. Thanks again!

I can't speak for other cheap sets, but I bought this set years ago and it's still amazing. It's not less than $10, but $35 for 22 brushes isn't too shabby.

If you end up trying another set, let us know how it works out!

I found these on Amazon to help get every last drop of product! It works perfect for concealer. And then I cleaned what was left in the tube with a makeup wipe

Cheapest item and item I would love (Used is A-OK on this. I'm not picky!)

Thank you for the contest. Have fun. :)

Or if you don't want to spend $18, you can buy one on Amazon for less than a dollar.

The reviews on these airless pump bottles look pretty good. I'm going to order some for Christmas travel.

Well, if you're looking at Morphe, just go over to amazon and search brushes there. You'll get about the same quality as their base line products. Only their "special" or more expensive brushes are non-white label, as far as I can tell.
White Label means that a company (usually in China) produces a bunch of the same brushes, and will stamp a company name on them for a fee.
This set is on par with most of my Morphe brushes. Not that they're bad brushes, they aren't, but there's just no reason to pay Morphe prices for them.

I got this brush set on Amazon for super cheap and it's been perfectly adequate so far: https://smile.amazon.com/Makeup-Eye-Brush-Set-Eyeshadow/dp/B00MNMQKPC/

Hard to gauge how soft would be soft enough for you, though. The fluffy blending brush is very lightweight! But, I mean, duh. It's a fluffy blending brush.

This cotton is great and $7.39 for a nicely sized bag.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000TCD51A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

$8 shipped. Ordered some in November. I change my wicks up to two times a day and gave given a few pads away. I am not past the green line at the top of the package.

Great stuff. My organic cotton balls have taken a back seat to this. Much easier to work with, and it wicks great.

Edit: It ships from Japan but it got to me in the US very quickly. Faster than some other things I ordered that shipped from the US.

Kanthal/Nichrome

Organic Cotton

I vote for Takashima Cupertino Store despite the parking situation.

I'd like to see if it's possible to meet at a restaurant or boba place first and then mosey over to Takashima. This gives us time to meet each other and also gives people time to find parking/beat traffic/find us in this confusing plaza etc..Thursday or Friday evenings, Saturday all day and Sunday after 1:00 PM on any date works well for me.

I'd like to product swap (seeking a single Freeset Donkey Milk mask) and pick other AB-er's brains for tips n' tricks on my skin type (dehydrated).

Also - looking to become a MIZON snail convert but haven't been able to patch test any samples on my skin yet!

May possibly bring another friend who is a non-redditor who is completely new to AB skincare.

p.s. This store also sells DIY SELENA multilayer cotton puffs 80 ct useful for Hado Labo DIY face masks with Gokujun lotion for $3.50!

Hmmm, so I don't have an actual vanity and I am a HUGE scavenger/recycler. I basically use things that I already have and make them work for me. Here are some pics so you can better see the use of boxes and lids for organization.

I also use prescription bottles to hold all brushes, mascaras, etc. because I have A TON laying around. For the extremely brief period of time that I used a beauty sponge, I kept it in a prescription bottle cap or a metal cap from a fancy juice bottle.

The 2 boxes I've repurposed to store different make up items. One was a large mascara sampler box that is sturdy and has a nice magnetic closure so I decorated it using packaging to make a collage.

If you're not looking to buy anything new for storage/organization I highly recommend thinking creatively! Perhaps lids from jars (I use the cookie tin as a trash can and the lid as a mixing palette), shoeboxes could work, or with the upcoming holidays any boxes you may receive. Do you have baskets laying around or glasses/bakeware that are unused?

Not everyone wishes to go my route when it comes to organization so there are specific organizers like this one from Amazon and many you can find at TJ Maxx/Marshall's/Home Goods that are inexpensive. Always remember at those stores, things can be turned into storage or organizers! Particularly kitchen items like spice displays/racks or fridge organizers.

And depending on how you'd like to store your nail polish, wall displays are also nice and somewhat space saving. Here is an example from Amazon, but I believe Ikea and other stores have single shelves that you can purchase for much less and just install multiples of.

I love make up storage and organization (despite my set up being pretty wonky) so I apologize for the huge essay!!

I'm a fan of the EcoTools Essential Eye Set. I don't do anything crazy fancy, but I can get a good, basic look, or a nice halo eye using these.

I keep hearing good things about Real Techniques brushes, I actually have their Starter Set coming in the mail as we speak so I can't personally recommend them yet. But the price is right, and most of the reviews claim that the blending brush is on the small side so that's a plus.

I made a shopping list. Pick one substitute instead of a splurge and you come in under $250. The splurges I picked are well worth the cost, though. Note also that the chocolate bar palette is the only one I listed because it's pretty much the be-all-end-all of palettes for its simultaneous pops of flattering colors and neutrality. I also believe everyone should have a gorgeous red lippie. Enjoy!

Brushes:

• Real Techniques Starter Set - $13.49 on Amazon, normally $17.99
  
• Real Techniques Core Collection - $13.49 on Amazon, normally $17.99
  
  Foundations:
  
  
• Maybelline New York Baby Skin Primer, $5.99 on Amazon
  
• Pond's Luminous Finish BB Cream, $8.95 on Amazon, normally $10.00
  
• Splurge item: Too Faced Cocoa Powder Foundation, $34 at toofaced.com
  
• Strong Substitute: ULTA Mineral Powder Foundation, $14 at ULTA
  
  Face & Contouring:
  
  
• ULTA Baked Bronzer, $10 at ULTA
  
• theBalm Bahama Mama $14 at Amazon
  
• Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush Pink Plum, $5.59 at Amazon
  
• If you don't like cream blush, NYX Powder Blush in Desert Rose, $6 on Amazon
  
• e.l.f. Shimmering Facial Whip LILAC PETAL, $5-6 on Amazon, but I think it's like $3 at Target
  
  Eyes:
  
  
• Splurge item: Too Faced Chocolate Bar Palette, $49 at toofaced.com
  
• Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion, $12 sample size at urbandecay.com (the sample size has lasted me forever)
  
• Splurge item: Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara, $23 at toofaced.com
  
• Substitute: Rimmel Scandal Eyes Mascara, $6.99 on Amazon
  
• NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil set with Black Bean,Milk, and Yogurt, $13 on Amazon
  
• Splurge item: stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner, $20 on Amazon
  
• Substitute: NYX Felt Tip Liner, $8 on Amazon
  
• NYX Eyebrow Cake Powder, $6 on Amazon
  
  Lippies:
  
  
• Splurge: MAC Russian Red, $16 at MACcosmetics.com
  
• Substitute: Revlon Really Red - I couldn't find this on Amazon reliably, but check drug stores.
  
• Basically any NYX lippie is great to start out and they range from about $4-8. Find one in your fave color at target or ULTA.
  
  
  Edit: Forgot eyebrows. Darn. Still can come under $250 with the right substitutions.

Its really hard to tell what your makeup looks like in this shot because of the downward angle and the hair over the face. I'd recommend posting one where there are less shadows and we can see the eyes and eyebrows more since it will allow everyone to see things better to give you better feedback. Eyebrows in particular are essential for framing the face and one of the hardest things to get right but with the hair in the way there's no way to see them well to really give good feedback. The little bit I can see looks very light so you might want to look into getting into brow products to darken it up and shape it. For a cheap starter brow kit to practice with the ELF brow kit is really good and only $3. I still use that one because my brows are dark enough that I don't need too much but if you have lighter/sparser brows you might like something better. Right now the contrast between the light brows and dark hair is pretty stark. Here is a good tutorial for filling in/shaping brows for someone with fair skin and dark hair.

Again its hard to tell about eye makeup but it kind of looks like you've done some smudgy soft brown liner but again the angle makes it hard to tell. I can see that your eyelashes appear really light so I'd definitely recommend a black mascara. Maybelline has really good mascaras if you are looking for something cheap to start with. Curling eyelashes and applying mascara does a lot to open up the eyes and make your whole face brighter, especially if you have very light eyelashes (mine are blonde so I know the struggle).

It looks like you have a hooded eye shape which means that when your eyes are open most of your lid is hidden and tucked into the crease of your eye. Mine are slightly hooded so my eyelids don't show much. Its a bit tricker to work with but you can still do a ton.

Here's a good easy every day tutorial for a similar eye shape. I love the Shade and Light Eye palette that she uses in the video but its a more expensive item and while it is well worth it you might want to look for similar colors from the drugstore. But this should give you are visual for something you could do.

Liner is tough for your eye shape. I find that it makes a big difference on me but you have to be able to apply the line very thin or it will take over the entire lid space that is visible when your eyes are open. This just takes a lot of practice.

Having a good set of brushes helps too. I am in LOVE with this set from Lamora Beauty. They're cheap but great quality and have just about every type of basic eye brush you could ever need.

Your skin looks really beautiful. Only suggestion would be a bit of blush and maybe some color to your lips. The first youtuber I posted has similar coloring to you. She wears kind of mauvey tones for her more natural looks so you could try and find something similar to this, I think that would look nice on you.

If you like something more colorful then go for that too but its always good to master a neutral basic look and then branch out. Hopefully this helps.

I bought the Lamora set and really like them overall. I only bought their eye brush set https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MNMQKPC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Most wire is just re-branded [Temco wire] (https://temcoindustrial.com/shop/wire-cable-accessories/non-resistance-wire). Go straight to the source and pay pennies on the dollar compared to branded wire.

Cotton/wick is just about the same - just go for unprocessed/non-bleached cotton. [Shiseido] (https://www.sephora.com/product/facial-cotton-P173726), [Puff] (https://www.amazon.com/Selena-Organic-Cotton-Puff-200Pc/dp/B00N7E9YYO/ref=sr_1_3_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1509981371&sr=1-3&keywords=puffs+cotton), [Muji] (https://www.amazon.com/Makeup-Facial-Cotton-Unbleached-180pcs/dp/B00VHA3ZXQ/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1509981407&sr=1-1&keywords=muji+cotton), etc. Or get some [Rayon from Amazon] (https://www.amazon.com/Graham-Cellucotton-Beauty-Coil-Feet/dp/B001BKY3B0). $7 for enough wick to last you several years.

http://www.amazon.com/Selena-Organic-Cotton-Puff-200Pc/dp/B00N7E9YYO/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1458851094&sr=8-2&keywords=cotton+labo

Is a better deal on better cotton imo.

Cotton ball, as in regular off the shelf cotton balls? You know those are bleached right? You shouldn't use those.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00N7E9YYO/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

You don't put cotton down the wells because depending on how you setup your wick it won't properly draw in the juice. For demonstration purposes here are pictures I literally just took for the purpose of this post to demonstrate what I do:

http://i.imgur.com/jeNvOgu.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/7bCx6ap.jpg

I have 4 Griffin 25s and they are all setup this way. This is also a Scottish Roll in a 3mm diameter clapton for anyone who wants to know.

For makeup, I'd recommend just sticking to items sold directly from the company or sold and shipped by Amazon. theBalm Cosmetics is available on Amazon and I love their face products (Mary Lou Highlighter, The Desert Bronzer, Instain/Boy Blushes). Sleek Makeup is also available which is great since they're not readily available in the US. I recommend their eyeshadows, face products (highlight, blush, contour kit) and their liquid lipsticks.

I also like buying makeup tools and organizers from Amazon. A few that I've personally bought and love:

• Makeup Brush Tree
  
  
• Muji Facial Cottons
  
  
• Lipstick Organizer

I use Muji as well. I’m really happy with its performance. Here’s a link for OP...

MUJI Makeup Facial Soft Cut Cotton Unbleached 60x50 mm 180pcs https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VHA3ZXQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_wWcOAbF0C0H6Q

or you just buy japanese cotton on amazon for 8 bucks for like 180 sheets they will alst you years. I have even given and sent friends some becuase you get so much

A lil cheaper on Amazon.

I have the same one and got it from Amazon.

It’s an excelent set, I recommend it.

I really, REALLY enjoy this one I got from Amazon. It's not super cheap for what it is but it's very sturdy and clean. I use Maybelline FitMe foundation and pour it in there. I get to use every drop of my foundation. It almost cleans as it pumps out if that makes sense. There's no residue left of the sides of the container.

This is Muji Japanese Cotton from Japan. This has very minimal flavor, and if you have a decent strength-flavored juice, then there is not a worry. This is 140 pads. You can obviously cut them, which i do, and can get up to 8 rewicks on dual coils (depending on how big the coils are). I love it and will NEVER go back to cotton bacon for anything but scottish or stovetop wicking. It is awesome. The only 2 drawbacks are that it comes from Japan and that the labeling is all in japanese. IMO, TOTALLY FKN WORTH IT!!!!!

I have tried the Koh Gen Do and Puff and they are very similar, but this is such a good product and a good deal for what you get that it is so worth it.

Also, I run my daily at about 80-100 watts and you can go 2-3 days b4 rewicking, but i do it every day to change harsher flavors. Had them since beginning of February and have barely made a dent. Love it!

http://www.amazon.com/MUJI-Makeup-Facial-Cotton-Unbleached/dp/B00MYXSRAQ?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00

These work great, and cheap....

https://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_2_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1468861416&sr=1-2&keywords=Selena+Organic+Cotton

$6.15

or $9.99 for a twin pack

https://www.amazon.com/Selena-Organic-Cotton-Puff-200Pc/dp/B00N7E9YYO/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1468861416&sr=1-1&keywords=Selena+Organic+Cotton

Enough cotton for years....

For Fasttech, if an item is labeled as authentic, it should be authentic. Clones will be named "styled."

Also, for cotton, THIS should last you quite a long while.

I use this cotton. Does not have a bad taste & is easy to wick with. Check the reviews, a lot of vapers use this brand.

https://www.amazon.com/Makeup-Facial-Cotton-Unbleached-180pcs/dp/B00VHA3ZXQ/ - Muji Cotton. Literally means no name brand cotton.

Comedone extractor.

Warning it's an amazon link so if you're not buying open in incognito so you aren't recommended them.

Okay so maybe 6 months ago my aunt got a cold that would not go away. She went into the doctors and after many tests she was diagnosed with cancer and given about 6 months. We all had been hoping she'd make it past christmas, but we got word yesterday she's about to pass. Things have been getting worse and worse but now she's unconscious, non-responsive and her vitals are dropping. We thought she'd pass yesterday, but last we heard she was still just out, her vitals are still really low, but she's kind of hanging on. I didn't get to see her before because it was sudden and we've kind of been trying to give her husband and kids time with her, ya know. I know she's been in a crazy amount of pain, so I almost hope she passes sooner rather than later so she's finally at peace...

Sudden change of topic and on to something less depressing! Since husband isn't buying me a christmas gift (and lets be honest, no one else is either) I got myself this nail polish holder, and this one too. Yay for me. Super happy to move out of boxes and into pretty displays.

Hope everyone is doing well. <3

Coastal Scents has some decent sets: Here's a 12-brush set for $19, and I used this set for $35 for a long time until I could afford fancy brushes.

Have you tried a make up spatula? Thats what I use for all my glass bottles.
http://www.amazon.com/Every-Drop-Beauty-Spatula/dp/B0069VYSFM

Cheapest

What I would like: This to help me not have to stand as long to chop and slice stuff when cooking (bad back)

They're all over Amazon or eBay, as well as any online packaging or cosmetic supplies store. You can generally find them for $2 a time, and they're robust and reusable.

Like this:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Airless-Pump-Bottle-Silver-Matte/dp/B00ED5HD08

I bought a set of 6 30ml pump bottles from Amazon for $16 that work well and pump out product less forcefully than my daiso versions. Not cheap, but more luxurious than the daiso versions imo

Is this to taupe for you? WnW has good singles IMO. Milani is also great for singles at the drugstore as well.

As per brushes, this is my absolute favorite set of brushes. I re-glued them so that they were stronger, but I've had them for over a year and they have yet to shed with weekly washing.

Since /r/ladyshavers is a bit dead, i'll throw in my 2c here as a ladyshaver of a few years now.

Razor: You want to start her off with a long-handled, knurled razor, as both are more ideal for shaving limbs and other places in a shower or bath environment (read: wet, soapy hands). My go-to suggestion for new women DE users is the Merkur 23C, or something like it. As I mentioned elsewhere in the thread, the Parker 96R is also a commonly mentioned razor among women shavers, and their QC seems to have improved recently.


Shaving soaps/creams/sticks: I loved the hard soaps I was getting from Alphy and Becs (small UK-based shop) via their ebay shop, then I got my hubby into DE shaving and tried some of his Taylor's Sandalwood... man, you really can't go wrong with it, can you? It's a luxurious scent/lather experience, even in the shower, so I suggest you choose a scent she'd like from them, choose a scent she'd like from YOUR favorite soap or cream brand, and give her both. Bodyshaving goes through a lot of shaving cream in a shorter period of time, resulting in a much higher cost per shave than face shavers incur, so I mainly use hard soaps to keep costs down, but it's hard to go back to them after the ease and joy of a nice cream like Taylor's.

Shaving sticks are fantastic in the shower as well, though I haven't tried a large variety of them and wouldn't feel right recommending specific ones. Can't hurt to thrown a stick of Arko or EU Palmolive into the kit you're building for her, though. If she likes them but not the stick application, she (or you) can always grate them into a nice bowl, which also further customizes her experience, and might make the bathroom counters look nicer too--which will hopefully make her willing to get even more soaps! The more personal it feels to her, the more she'll be invested in DE shaving, and the more it will become something the both of you share as opposed to something she kind of sort of also does because you do it.

I'm assuming you're US-based, in which case I'd also recommend 2 small soap shops, Chagrin Valley (great people and soaps, but only 2 scents for shaving soaps. Worth giving their normal soaps a browse too, their products are top notch.) and Eva Nestorova's Etsy shop. (The specific soap I linked is supposedly almost identical to the much beloved Klar Kabinette.) Eva also has a soap sampler pack that's a great value, and your wife will almost certainly love at least one of the scents.

Bonus: any soap she doesn't like, you get! And you get to try out some of her new things as well, if she lets you. :D


Blades: Definitely get her a proper sampler pack, don't just buy a couple kinds that you think she'll like. Why? Because the experience and novelty of going through the pack herself over time to figure out what does and doesn't work for her is a part of the gift, and with it you're saying "this is a long-term commitment to this style of shaving, take your time and figure out what's perfect for you" and it will encourage her to shop around a bit before settling on a blade. And she may find that different blades work better or worse depending on how much hair growth she has. For instance, I hate Astras if I haven't shaved in a couple weeks, whereas they're fine when I just ask them to clean up leg stubble. And cleaning up leg stubble is a waste of my feathers blades, etc.

(Also, if she really gets into it, you might want to have her consider a separate razor--or at least blade--for shaving her ladybits, if she chooses to. I'm to the point where once my latest order arrives, I'll be using 2 different razor and blade combos-- 1 mild combo for shaving legs, arms (yes), and stubbly armpits, and 2nd, more aggressive setup for my land down under and seriously overgrown armpits. Both because my particular ladybits laugh at mild razors, and because it means my blades in the first setup last about 5x longer if they don't have to deal with coarser pubic hair as well. That might not be something all women are interested in investing in, but this is a hobby for me like many of the men in this sub, so I don't mind. :) )

Alum: If she's prone to razor burn, this is a must. If she's shaving her ladybits, this is a must. If she has sensitive skin.. you get the picture.

Styptic: I just rub my alum block on the nick until the bleeding stops and don't bother with a pencil, but she may prefer a styptic pencil as it's more aggressive in stopping the bleeding right away.

Brush: Silvertip's extra softness is not beneficial for body shaving, don't waste money on it. Regular badger is fine, boar is fine, and overall I personally think brushes with slightly more backbone are better for body shaving. If she wants a synthetic, I've heard that the Ecotools Bamboo brush, available in many cosmetic shops and drugstores, is absolutely fantastic. I've just ordered a Spanish horsehair brush myself, I'm excited to see how it works out. Ultimately, since we're not using them on skin nearly as sensitive as our faces, brushes (blasphemy!) are much less of a factor for ladyshavers. I suggest buying a decent mid-range non-silvertip brush from wheverever you're getting most of her other kit supplies from.


Other possible accessories: A razor and brush holder, or a double model, a gorgeous wood lather bowl, or frilly antique scuttle, a more practical scuttle, etc (Note: These links are from my wishlist and ladyshaver friends of mine. I haven't tried them out yet myself. But hopefully they're a good starting point.)


Bonus points: Some great lotion to slather over herself after the shave, and clean and crisply scented candles because women love candles. I don't know why, but we do. Well, I love candles because my husband is a fart-machine, but YMMV. Suggestion: A candle that's both candle and massage cream.

TLDR: Merkur 23c, Taylor's Sandalwood/Coconut/Rose, any decent boar or badger brush, alum, razor holder, pretty lather bowl/scuttle in a style she'd like. Sampler pack. Candles and lotion are bonus points for creating a total-package spa-at-home gift experience.

I asked a similar question recently. Some of the info I received was:

Wire - http://www.wireandstuff.co.uk/products/index.html (26g Kanthal seems to be the best place to start)

Cotton - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Cotton-Labo-Organic-Puff-200Pc/dp/B000TCD51A

I think RDA wise (particularly on a budget) I'd heade to www.fasttech.com/ and look at some velocity clones or something like the Wotofo Sapor or freakshow. They seem to be relatively well liked - and cheap!

The wiki that /u/Dumbgecko mentions above is invaluable - lots and lots and lots of very, very, very useful information.

http://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_5_s_it?s=beauty&rps=1&ie=UTF8&qid=1457493551&sr=1-5&keywords=cotton+labo+puffs&refinements=p_85%3A2470955011

Sure thing. http://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-Puff-200pc/dp/B000TCD51A/

Next time you buy cotton.

http://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-Puff-200pc/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1419018859&sr=8-1&keywords=japanese+organic+cotton

If you want to get into squonking, just know that there is more of an upfront cost involved. You can always go cheap, like with the Pico Squeeze and Kangertech Dripbox but those are not the greatest. I would recommend the HCigar Inbox. It is a 75w DNA device that uses a single 18650. Stick with regulated mods for now. For attys I'd recommend going with the Wasp Nano. For the price its great, squonk compatible and it is single coil so it's great to learn on to build with.

• HCigar Inbox - $68
  
  
• Wasp Nano - $12
  
  
• 2x Sony VTC5A - $7 per. The VTC5A is my personal choice as it is a very good for high wattage and mechanical mods. If you want a touch more batter life go with the Samsung 30Q
  
  
• LUC 2 bay Charger - $20 I'd reccomend the LUC over nictecore because they can charge the batteries faster. There is also a single bay charger but the dual bay is nice for when you may get a dual 18650 mod in the future. Your choice.
  
  
• Any pre-built wire from Advanced Vape Supply - $12-15. Would recommend regular clapton SS316L wire. SS316L is great as it heats up faster than A1 or Ni80 so it doesn't require as much power. Plus I think it brings more flavor to the table.
  
  
• Puffs Organic Cotton - $5 and it will last you well over a year
  
  TOTAL: about $132 before shipping
  
  Note: stay away from the predator, alien, and gen 3 RX!! There are POS.

http://www.carolinaxtract.com/ - http://www.vaperstek.org/ - https://www.nudenicotine.com/

In that order because you never want to cut corners on nicotine ever. Everybody talks about the pepper taste but I've never had that because I went through those three. Nudenicotine actually will give you a free 15ml sample with $2 shpping.

With PG/VG they are 99% all the same so don't get trapped into any gimmicks or anything. Just get the Essential Depot's PG/VG from Amazon which is around $10 for a quart.

While you're there you might as well pick up some cotton which like PG/VG don't fall into all the BS because it's all pretty much the same. Get: https://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A/

If you don't have Prime and need something to get the free shipping you might as well pick up the scale now: https://www.amazon.com/American-Weigh-Scales-LB-501-Digital/dp/B005UGBG20/ -- Those 4 are what the majority of us use by a mile. Just pick up some pipettes and bottles and you are actually pretty much 100% set for DIY, it's that easy. By the time an average person rolls their coil and wicks their tank I could bust out a gallon or 3 of e-juice.

http://www.bullcityflavors.com/ - http://www.ecigexpress.com/ - http://gremlindiy.com/ - You're all set now.

I've been DIY for a year now and still have 1/4th of the VG and 3/4th of the PG left doing around a 65/35 VG/PG mix. The cotton is a different story however, that bag honestly will last about 7 years which is conservative and 10+ wouldn't shock me. It was probably my best purchace ever and it's so nice to never have to worry about cotton again so I can focus that energy on buying way way too many vaping hardware and supplies. My pantry is pretty much dedicated to vaping and I have to admit that I'm an addict.

It's a fun hobby coming from a background where I was building 386's as a kid so it's up my alley and it saved my life. I don't care care about the death part but more of my lungs hurting when I wake up, had no energy and killed any cardio to the point of running up stairs was an issue. The worst is the smell though, especially if you haven't been around it for a while. I let somebody smoke two in my apartment a few weeks ago in the open and not out the window. My F'N GOD, for the next 3 days I was spaying so much shit, washing every damn thing that was washable, to even scrubbing my walls because I couldn't even sleep waking up in the middle of the night with that distinct sweet horrible smell that lingers like crazy.

How they are legal compared to other things that actually will improve your health to the point where it will actually shrink cancer tumors in THC/CBD. Dextromethorphan and Ketamine which is the only thing known that helps with my rare intolerable disease. Tryptamine drugs like DMT that would instantly reshape how society thinks and acts being the best method for us to grow as a species which could take tens of thousands of years still and it should be our #1 goal in life to get the ball running in our little Century.

Puff - Japanese organic cotton pads

I use these organic Japanese cotton pads. Perfect price & the flavor is clean. I find one pad can make 4 wicks for 3mm coils.

I bought 2 packs 2 years ago & am only half way through 1 bag!

Well, that's easy! Just need some cash and I will guide you to the rest. Okay, istick30- http://www.eciggity.com/eleaf-istick-30w-battery/
that will replace your evod. Also, if you don't want to mess with an atomizer go with but a solid vape-http://sweet-vapes.com/apvs/joyetech/joyetech-egrip-20-watt.html

Okay, if you are currently rocking an evod...I will make the assumption that you would be new to rebuilding(which is making the coils, instead of buying prebuilt ones...not meaning to over explain but if you are new, I just want to inform you).
You will need to watch some videos on how to build coils- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SfuOOgOvjL4 (also a solid review of the Taifun GT2)
Then you need to purchase the Taifun GT2- https://www.fasttech.com/product/2047800

You will also need 28 gauge kanthal A1- http://www.amazon.com/Kanthal-Gauge-Wire-32mm-Resistance/dp/B00JVXVKB0/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1422333395&sr=8-2&keywords=kanthal+a1

And I suggest japanese cotton-http://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-Puff-200pc/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=pd_sim_misc_8?ie=UTF8&refRID=0JSXYVNPVVYFJVCYDTZ0

And if you are going this far, get the best juice- http://www.stasheliquids.com/collections/drippers-paradise/products/my-sweet-one?variant=928219087

So search youtube for Taifun builds-https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=taifun+builds

Then replicate-
And if you need some help- let me know and I will build some coils and send them to you pre-wicked...but I would suggest just going for it...tweezers...scissors...drill bit around 1/8in or just get a shitty set and you are good.
Remember- idiots build coils all the time...https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cDz0otQmSH4

Building is super easy especially with a coil master it's very simple to learn and also saves money in the long run! This was where I got my coil master. Along with the wire as well as this cotton . Best cotton ive ever used and will last me at least a year and a half. I got it in January and I rewick often and have only used probably 1/10 of that bag. Also Steam Engine has been recommended to help with knowing the ins and outs of ohms. But I personally have done it enough to know what build does what without using this site much. Hope I could help!

Don't waste your time with any of that "made for vaping" cotton crap!

Bought two of these babies when a buddy and I started vaping and we haven't even made a dent in our supply, I'm convinced some B&Ms and vendors probably just throw a couple sheets of this stuff in their "premium cotton" baggies.

If you're going through a shit ton of coils a month then I'd honestly look into getting an RDA. They give out 100% if not more flavour than a tank. You'll also use a hell of a lot less juice. You don't really need nic salts in them either which I personally prefer and consider safer.

Downsides though.

Everyone talks about the effort of building a coil but meh I bought a pack of 42 pre-made super fancy ones (coilology 7 in 1 kit) for 12 quid. A coil will last 1-2 months. Single coil RDA's are the best tasting ones too btw, dual ones just make more clouds in my opinion. Recommended ones are the Asmodus C4, Cthulu Cthulhu Mjolnir and the cheapest but somehow still really good Wasp Nano. Some of the RDA's are a bit restricted like the C4 but no where near as much as a pod kit. So google for reviews here on reddit for ones your interested in. They're usually pretty honest here.

You do need to rewick them. Some people rewick once a week some people everyday. It's a personal preference. However one pack of these organic Japanese cotton sheets should last you about four years if you rewick every single day. (That's not an exaggeration btw). Wicking isn't hard. You cut a strip about 3-5mm in diamater. peel the outside bits off. Roll it a bit in your hands then put it through the coil. Cut ends off and tuck into the "tank". You don't really need to fluff the ends if it's not an RTA.

Either you drip or spend more on a squonk mod. There's roughly three recommended dual battery squonks (second thread) at the moment. They're bulkier by about 50% to a normal battery mod because there's a bottle for eliquid roughly the same size as a battery on them. Singles pretty good but obviously you get half the battery life...

Personally I just drip though, you have to carry around a bottle of juice with you but hey who doesn't do that anyway. For that you just tip your bottle down your drip tip squeeze and go. Squonks are cool tbh though. If you decide to drip you can obviously use any mod you want as long as the RDA you picked fits on it.

RDA's are a bit more effort. However you use a ton less juice and you actually get that amazing flavour everyone else is talking about but somehow you never seem to taste...

Also you never have to worry about breaking the glass on an RDA, I drop my shit all the time and they're pretty resilient.

They aren't for everyone though, if you cba with the effort, extra weight and bulk compared to a pod system and all that. They aren't rocket science to use though if I can do it anyone can. You also don't really need a full coil making kit either (often it's easier to get them as a set though) and pre-made ones are cheap, bigger and better. You need a few parts. A coil jig is useful for when you insert your prebuilt coils. ceramic tweezers because when inserted you need to strum your coils to get rid of hotspots. Scimitar Tweezers because you too should accidentally stab yourself with the bastards like the rest of us and they're good for wicking. Wire cutters to cut the ends off your coils once installed. Oh and a pair of scissors to cut your cotton. You can get those cheap as chips on Amazon or on fasttech.

As said it's a bit more effort but you'll save a fortune in buying coils. Using an RDA and bottle shots as a lazy mans DIY vaping costs me pretty much nothing. About 20 quid a month at most. £15 quid on a 500ml bottle shot. About £2 worth or less of the 500ml bottle of 72mg nic (£36 ish) that you can still legally buy (just pinky swear you ain't using it to vape). Then about 1-2 quid worth of PG and VG. That lasts me 1-2 months.

First off, general rule of thumb is to not use anything with "fire" in the name. I'd recommend Samsung's 25r as far as batteries go, and they have a continuous max amp rating of 25 amps which means you can build safely down to .17Ω. You can get them from here for $6.80 each.

For a charger, I would recommend a Nitecore i2 (found most places for <$16).

I used cotton for a while until I switched to Japanese cotton and now cannot go back. Here they are $7.45 for a lifetime supply.

As far as CLOUDS, .75Ω on a mech isn't going to get you very far unless you use a thin gauge wire. Toy around with several different gauges of wire to find out what you like. Also, this is the coolest tool for starting out on mechs before you learn to do the math in your head.

So far I think the gel-cream has been my favorite moisturizer. I tend to get pretty oily throughout the day but it doesn't make me oily but it also hyrdates me well. I use cotten sheet masks to dip into the gel-cream for sanitary reasons and so I'm not touching my face with my fingers directly.

I am using this Ikea MICKE desk until I find a nice mid-century desk that fits my bedroom.

The drawers are full of palettes, powders, liners, and everything except lipstick. I keep my lipstick collection (400+ lipsticks) displayed on two of these nail polish racks, which I keep hung on the wall behind my door.

I recently got a new tiered display for my little perfume collection, so they're on my vanity like this.

Amazon

real Techniques Starter Set
I've had these for about a year now and not one hair has fallen out. They are really good quality for the price. I have a few drugstore ones and they all have fallen apart or are not as soft. (Except for elf)
On the higher end brushes would be mac or morphe brushes. Morphe is still more affordable though might want to check out there gunmetal line

No pics since I'm not at home.. but here's what I've gotten recently with reviews!!

• ELF Cream Eyliner in Black - This liner is AMAZING!! So pigmented, creamy, easy to use, and lasted all day. I was actually able to make a decent wing with this..which is a big deal for me!
  
  
• bareMinerals Eyeshadow in Nude Beach - This. Is. The. Most. BEAUTIFUL. Eyeshadow. Ever. Seriously amazing..wear it every day now!! IN LOVE GO GET IT NOW!
  
  
• real Techniques Starter Set - These brushes, like everyone says, are amazing. Great quality, super soft, no complaints at all!!
  
  
• NYX Makeup Setting Spray Dewy Finish - I used an Urban Decay MSS before this, but this one seems just as good as sooo much cheaper! I have dry skin, so this is great to keep my skin moisturized and not have dry, patchy areas.
  
  
• Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey - Since everyone and their mom has raved about this I thought I'd try it, and it is really great! The color is gorgeous and you can get so many looks from it. It looks really natural on me and not like I'm wearing anything on my lips at all, more of a stained look. I'm not a fan of the scent though..
  
  
• MUFE Aqua Eyes in Champagne 23L - This was a dud for me..not a fan of the color (very, very light..doesn't show up on my eyes at all), not very creamy, so I really have no use for it. Will be returned unfortunately!!
  
  
• Maybelline Great Lash BIG - I know people are 50/50 on this but I've always loved the regular Great Lash for bottom lashes or for very natural lashes! I really love this one..for me it works like Bad Gal Lash but about 1/5 of the price! Will keep wearing this! I also got Clump Crusher but haven't opened it yet :)

I'm confused, I just added up these items new, including shipping and it totaled $77.28

Razor $38

2 Kabuki Brushes $11.08

2 Arko sticks $4.79

2 Alum blocks $11.62

20 Blade Sampler 11.79

Seconding what /u/OhVictoria said, japanese cotton is the bees knees. Don't feel stressed to get Koh Gen Doh though, found this brand that's just as amazing for half the price and about double the amount.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000TCD51A/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A2Z0B461VOHEF4

I've used both as well, and agree the taste is the same. But at least for me, the japanese cotton was more convenient as it's easier to portion out and keep the fibers aligned correctly so I use that. But not expensive ko gen doh or whatever. I use this, and I expect that bag to last a very, very long time.

you have to make sure they aren't treated with anything. get these ones instead: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000TCD51A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This is what many users get/use. I got the MUJI cotton last time because I would have had to wait on the other to get in stock, but I was going out of town and couldn't wait.

My RDA suggestion for easy builds:
Tobeco Velocity RDA - $18
Kuro Koiler (I use 3mm) - $7
Clapton Wire (26AWG + 32AWG kanthal) - $9
Puff Japanese Organic Cotton - $6

Amazon is your friend.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00JVXVKB0/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1422324544&sr=8-2

100' 28g Kanthal $6 (I use 26g on my subtank, but 28 works too. This is just the first one that showed up)

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000TCD51A/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1422324636

More Japanese cotton than you will know what to do with $8

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00FZPDG1K/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1422324748

Angle cutters, not needed but it makes getting a clean cut very easy $5

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004800I6Y/ref=mp_s_a_1_18?qid=1422324973

Precision screw driver set, also not needed but handy for both the fact that they are in fact screw drivers and that you can use the slotted ones for wrap coils with a consistent and known inner diameter. $8 (you can get this for a lot less at Walmart, Lowes, harbor freight... Etc)

So a little over $25 shipped and you will not need kanthal or cotton for a very long time.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000TCD51A/ref=cm_cr_arp_mb_bdcrb_top?ie=UTF8

Check out the reviews

You'll get it eventually. Every RTA has it's little nuances that you have to figure out. Cotton is cheap on Amazon for a ridiculous amount of it and you can clean your coils easily by dry burning them. Just keep re-wicking it until you get it right.

That's a good choice, if a little pricey. I go with the organic japanese cotton pads from amazon, they're basically the same thing and you get a huge amount for very little money.

https://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-Puff-120pc/dp/B000TCEXOS/ref=sr_1_10_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1483651315&sr=8-10&keywords=japanese+organic+cotton

Pics of your build would help. Coil height is very important on the Wasp. When looking through the airholes on the side, you should only see the bottom half to 1/3rd of your coil.

As far as cotton, my go to has always been
https://www.amazon.com/COTTON-Organic-Cotton-Large-Pound/dp/B000TCEXOS/ref=sr_1_fkmr1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1542851228&sr=8-1-fkmr1&keywords=cotton+labo+clean+puff

Great wicking, and great price. 1 bag should last you ages.

More like Ko Gen Don't!

$5.06 for 120 ct shipped from Japan, or $7.15 shipped from USA.

http://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-Puff-120pc/dp/B000TCEXOS?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

https://www.amazon.com/COTTON-Organic-Cotton-Large-Pound/dp/B000TCEXOS

It's just basic Japanese organic cotton but it has little no break in time. 5 bags for 25 dollars will probably last you a decade. I haven't used it since pod systems became a thing but back then it was all I used. In the 3 years I drip I probably bought 3 bags but I re wicked 3 times a week.

Since people started switching from silica wicks to cotton, I have used this: https://www.amazon.com/COTTON-Organic-Cotton-Large-Pound/dp/B000TCEXOS/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1504163011&sr=1-1&keywords=puff+organic+cotton+large

I've tried all the fancier cottons, but honestly I can't tell the difference other than stuff like cotton bacon or native wicks not having the pieces of husk in them. They all seem to work pretty equally as wick, and the Cotton Labo is cheaper.

Cotton Pads are always the best, inexpensive purchase.

These are perfect for creating DIY masks:

SELENA Multi-Layer Cotton Puff, 80 Count

Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00260T94K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_nVnSAbF87AWW4

They are five very thin, lint-free layers that you can peel apart to your desired thickness.

Kind of the wrong subreddit to post this, would be better suited for /r/asianbeauty or /r/koreanbeauty.

I use the Hada Labo Hyaluronic Lotion (or any moisturizing toner) with peelable cotton puffs or a compressed facial sheet.

I have mine in one of these: http://www.amazon.com/Bottles-Nail-Polish-Wall-Rack/dp/B002WVBEH8/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1377375735&sr=1-1&keywords=nail+polish+rack

Previously I made one of these: http://www.thedailyvarnish.com/2012/01/19/diy-nail-polish-rack/

I ordered it from Amazon!. It arrived pretty quickly and went up like a charm.

http://www.amazon.com/Bottles-Nail-Polish-Wall-Rack/dp/B002WVBEH8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1375507844&sr=8-1&keywords=plastic+polish+rack

Almost less than 30!

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002WVBEH8/ref=mp_s_a_1?pi=64x75&qid=1344991541&sr=8-1

Definitely! Although I don't know if you've looked into any other brush brands, but Ecotools is a really really inexpensive brand but their brushes are awesome. I stopped using my sephora eye brushes (except the angled liner one) because I got the ecotools eye essentials kit.

This is one of my favorite questions to ask people! My husband and I are big on paying it forward.

Last christmas, the Doc Mcstuffins doll was one of the hot toys. We were lucky enough to get one for our niece, but it turned out that she already had one. People were selling it on eBay and Craigslist for 3 times its worth because it was in such high demand. We decided to list our doll on cl for the price we paid ($50, I believe). The woman who inquired first seemed so happy to find the doll... When she showed up to pick it up, she handed me the cash. I handed it back to her and said, "No charge. Merry Christmas." She shed a few tears and thanked me profusely. It was awesome.

The items I'd most like to have are: Eco Tools 6 Piece Eye Set, Coastal Scents To Go Palette Beijing, or Sleek I Divine Oh So Special palette

Thanks For hosting... Great question! How about you?

I found this gorgeous glow in the dark nail polish top coat ( http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B005IAACKA?cache=1f14cb80fc114c556154a6c2c7fac084&pi=SY200_QL40&qid=1412536476&sr=8-2#ref=mp_s_a_1_2 ) and this beautiful EcoTools eye brush set ( http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0030HMQTS?cache=1f14cb80fc114c556154a6c2c7fac084&pi=SY200_QL40&qid=1412536661&sr=8-1#ref=mp_s_a_1_1 ) they aren't quite 15 dollars but definitely in the range of that price. (:

You definitely don't have to go for a full face everyday. As stated below, most people here love makeup, so they tend to go all out for their FOTD. I, on the other hand, never wear any foundation/blush/bronzer/etc and only stick with concealer, eye makeup, and the occasional lip.

I find brushes make a huge difference for me in terms of makeup application, Real Techniques is a great affordable brand that you can easily find on Amazon. Their [core set] (http://www.amazon.com/real-Techniques-Core-Collection-Set/dp/B004TSFBNK/ref=sr_1_1?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1416153636&sr=1-1&keywords=real+techniques+brushes&pebp=1416153637537) has some good face brushes, and then the [Starter set] (http://www.amazon.com/Real-Techniques-RLT-1406-real-Starter/dp/B004TSFE28/ref=sr_1_2?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1416153636&sr=1-2&keywords=real+techniques+brushes) has a good variety of eye brushes.

For lips, Nyx is great, as are products from Revlon (particularly their lip butters and super lustrous lipsticks). I haven't found a good drug store product that doesn't need to be touched up every 3 or 4 hours though. I personally rarely wear lipliner unless its with a bright shade or a liquid lipstick, so I think if you're starting out with easy to use colors you can probably skip it for now. I haven't found a great drug store lip liner, but my holy grail is the [Sephora Brand clear liner] (http://www.sephora.com/universal-lip-liner-P379324) which is only $10.

For mascara, it is definitely up to personal preference, but some of the most popular drug store items are probably [Maybelline's the Rocket] (http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod4950087) or [Cover Girl's Clump Crusher] (http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod4690213).

As far as eyeliner, it depends on what kind of formula you want. The only drug store eyeliner I really use is [Revlon's ColorStay] (http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=VP10744) which is a basic twist up pencil liner.

As someone else mentioned, we can't really suggest any color products without seeing a picture or at least knowing you skin tone.

[Here is a starter set of the Real Techniques brushes] (http://www.amazon.com/Real-Techniques-RLT-1406-real-Starter/dp/B004TSFE28/ref=sr_1_2?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1417781916&sr=1-2&keywords=real+techniques+brushes)

[Here is a nice set too, with good reviews] (http://www.amazon.com/Coastal-Scents-Piece-Brush-Set/dp/B005UBN5AQ/ref=sr_1_6?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1417782384&sr=1-6&keywords=sigma+brushes#customerReviews)

Both sets are selling for incredibly good prices too :)

Face Kit: http://www.amazon.com/real-Techniques-Core-Collection-Set/dp/B004TSFBNK/ref=pd_cart_rp_1_p?ie=UTF8&refRID=0SMWEKQY24VEQNQYR303

Eye Kit: http://www.amazon.com/Real-Techniques-RLT-1406-real-Starter/dp/B004TSFE28/ref=pd_cart_rp_2_p?ie=UTF8&refRID=0SMWEKQY24VEQNQYR303

Pretty good price, too! Definitely cheaper than Ulta. I've been using them almost every day since I got them about a week ago and I love them; they feel so nice, and my makeup looks SO much better. I've been using the bareMinerals brushes I got with my startup kit and I don't think my mineral powder foundation EVER looked this good.

These would probably be best! I have yet to get them myself but many MUAs and others say they are really good for the price and one the best sets to start out with.

Real Techniques Starter Set


Real Techniques Core Collection

The brushes that are recommended are so for a reason, the VDH set contains a brush that is supposedly inferior to the ones recommended. Quotes from the two recommendations thread $75 and $100:

> HJM black synthetic brushes from ConnaughtShaving.com. (US residents do not pay VAT.)

>The Whipped Dog silvertip badger with your choice of resin handle (I like the octagonal best). The 22mm size is the best all-round size.



>Brush - $7.50 at Walgreens - The Ecotools Bamboo Finishing Kabuki brush is also available from Amazon.com, currently for $17 for two brushes. I suggest getting one locally in a drugstore. This cosmetics brush makes a truly excellent shaving brush---one that I use regularly. This brush is much better than the wretched Tweezerman and Escoli brushes. OPTION: For $19.64 including shipping the Vie-Long 11737C "Bombitoo" boar brush is an extremely good brush. While soft, it is an efficient lathermaker with excellent capacity. Wet it well before you shower, and it will be ready to go when you're done. Feels more like horsehair than boar.

Personally I'd recommend getting an Omega Boar brush which I find to offer good value for money :). I own two from the professional series and they're really good.
ShoeBox ShaveShop, Maggard razors and West coast shaving.

These ones? They don't peel into layers really at all – if you try to break them apart they break apart similarly to a cotton ball. They are incredibly soft though and great for removing eye makeup and nail polish.

Use unbleached organic cotton, usually people go for the pads as they're easy to roll up and trim.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MYXSRAQ?keywords=japanese%20cotton&qid=1450707954&ref_=sr_1_5&sr=8-5

That pack will last you a long time.

In terms of coils, your device caps out at 50 watts, so I wouldn't advise anything thicker than 26 gauge wire when you're making your own coils. Anything lower might take a long time to heat up with the power you have available. Make sure when you're building that you use an ohm reader to ensure you say in a safe resistance range. At 50 watts you should be able to get a nice vape out of a 6 wrap 26g dual coil. Watch a few tutorials on youtube, especially if you have a specific RDA/RTA you're looking to build with.

Also WATCH THIS VIDEO before you do ANYTHING.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O3h0ta-L_zc

I've tried a few myself. I've settled for the giant bags of organic japanese cotton that you can get on Amazon. I dont notice a difference in taste. My wallet loves it too.

Edit: https://www.amazon.com/Selena-Organic-Cotton-Puff-200Pc/dp/B00N7E9YYO/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=puff+cotton&qid=1559191035&s=gateway&sr=8-3

Organic unbleached cotton is the norm for wicking. You can buy it super cheap from amazon in pads on amazon. Doesnt need to be any vaping brand just facial pads. Doesnt need to be boiled or anything just cut thick strips out roll it a bit and put it through the coil. It wont burn as long as the watts you are running are suitable for the coil resistance built and the wick stays wet.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00N7E9YYO/ref=s9_simh_gw_g194_i2_r?ie=UTF8&fpl=fresh&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=desktop-1&pf_rd_r=0Q3XMVBRRNV822KJFQG2&pf_rd_t=36701&pf_rd_p=2079475242&pf_rd_i=desktop

This comment is an add on for my last. I ran out of time haha

I suggest the limitless plus over any Genny style tank. Big deck, easy to build, easy to wick, super easy to clean. Has a single coil plug (which I use all the time, I hate dual coils)

For wire https://www.lightningvapes.com/collections/specialty-wire/products/clapton-wire# Clapton wire is the best for flavor. U don't need any fancy shit haha.

for cotton MUJI Makeup Facial Soft Cut Cotton Unbleached 60x50 mm 180pcs https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VHA3ZXQ/ref=cm_sw_r_apa_w1VIxbTBBW5MJ

U can get the coil master tool kit http://www.coil-master.net/product/diy-kit but u honestly don't need it. Most of that shit is for convenience. U can build, set, and remove hotspots with just a screwdriver.

I use this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VHA3ZXQ/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_gyj.zbAS7CV6Z. Very cheap and it works great. (Sorry about the link, I'm on mobile)

I use this Muji

Bare minimum you will need: cotton, wire, something to wrap around and something for compressing your coil.

For cotton: I would suggest buying something like this on amazon: http://www.amazon.com/MUJI-Makeup-Facial-Cotton-Unbleached/dp/B00VHA3ZXQ/ref=pd_sim_194_2?ie=UTF8&dpID=41cjwcCYTrL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=0GR5E3FGJMNV5WKEV7CP

For wire: This will be dependent on your mod and what route you want to take. Does your mod support TC? Do you want to use TC? If yes to both of those questions, you'll have to do a little bit of research on what wire you think you'll prefer. I've never used TC so I can't be much help in that area. If you want to go with classic kanthal, I would suggest starting with 26g because it holds its shape well without being too stiff or too springy.

For a wrap: You can simply use a screwdriver as a bare minimum OR you can use a coil wrapping jig with makes it unbelievably easy but will cost you a bit more. Something like this: http://www.amazon.com/Original-Authentic-Authenticity-Japanese-InnoVaper/dp/B00ZPTE00C/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1462901328&sr=8-3&keywords=coil+jig

For compressing the coil: You can use a set of pliers to pinch your coils together when you're positioning your coil but you CAN NOT have them touching the coil when you are pulsing it for even glow. With that said, I'd highly suggest using ceramic tweezers because you can use them while pulsing.

When I started building coils I went ahead and bought an all in one tool kit for convenience like this one if you so desire (though everything listed above will do you fine): http://www.amazon.com/Coil-Master-Authentic-Tweezers-Resistant/dp/B017RX4DJ6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1462901516&sr=8-1&keywords=coil+master

Hope that helps you get started with building coils, feel free to ask any additional questions. For how to wrap coils I'd start with something on youtube like this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hxuE-WE17Fg

Here is the listing. It is very high quality, and is among the best tasting I've used. I bought it after very little drunken research, in a whim. I am very pleased with it so far.

The engine is nearly leak proof, but it is not a particularly good flavor atomizer, you can probably do better. Also, you might want to look at a single coil atomizer, if you're really beholden to the idea of the OBS Engine, look at the Nano, it's the same tank with a single coil deck, which will help you stay around 40-50 watts rather than needing to max out your mod at all times.

You can build your own coils, buy spools of pre-made clapton wire and just wrap them around a post yourself, or buy premade coils, all up to you. I believe Advanced vapor supply and Lightning Vapes are two very solid options for pre-made coils, Demon Killer and UD make coils out of china as well. You probably want either simple clapton coils or fused claptons with that tank, it performs well at higher wattages and the already somewhat diminished flavor will really suffer with round wire. Even if you're buying premade coils you will need to make sure they heat evenly by fiddling with them a bit, most of us recommend using ceramic tipped tweezers as they are non-conductive and you can tweak the coils while you're firing them.

Cotton, Cotton Bacon is a fine option, if too expensive for what it is. I bought this giant bag of generically packaged organic cotton pads on amazon, they are pretty good pads, and it's a near lifetime supply for under 10 dollars.

Watch videos on how to work out the hot spots on your coils, it will help you going forward. It's a pretty straightforward process, but it's going to be easier to see it. Also, you're probably going to want to get a set of coil building tools now, it's just going to be easier to have the right tools on hand, and in general the kits are cheap enough to not squabble over spending a few extra dollars now to have everything you need later. Make sure that it comes with good flush cutters and ceramic tipped tweezers, beyond that a good coil jig will be helpful now for seating your coils and a godsend later if you're building your own.

I would also recommend looking into other RTAs, whether it be the Serpent Mini, the SMM, or another option there are going to be ones that are just as good for your purposes while providing better flavor at the same general price point.

Did you know Amazon will donate a portion of every purchase if you shop by going to smile.amazon.com instead? Over $50,000,000 has been raised for charity - all you need to do is change the URL!

Here are your smile-ified links:

this giant bag of generically packaged organic cotton

---

^^i'm ^^a ^^friendly bot

I use these! If you really want to push it, you might be able to get three uses out of them.

velocity / muji cotton from amazon, $8 for life

I like Muji better. A bit thicker than most other pads. No weird tastes. Wicks beautifully. Tastes great.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00VHA3ZXQ/

Muji has a few retail stores in New York and California. They'd sell it for the same price as online.

You can buy a pack from their online store for $2.50. Lowest shipping option is $5.90, so you're looking at $8.40 for a pack shipped.

Amazon sells a pack for $7.76 shipped, from Tokyo. So you'd be better off ordering from Amazon if one pack of cotton is all you need, and you don't mind waiting.

If you're ordering more than one pack or ordering something else along with it then buy straight from Muji. They have the same cotton in a larger size too. They have tons of cool stuff. Their shirts and bed sheets are really nice too.

https://www.amazon.com/BESTOPE-Blackhead-Remover-Comedone-Extractor/dp/B019SVHLEY

Actually, as pointed out by Dr. Lee, AKA Dr. Pimple Popper. Acne or comodomes are an infection. They should always be removed. She has dealt with ones that have been left for years or even sometimes, DECADES. The thing is you can't just pop a zit and leave it. it needs to be treated like any infection. It needs cleaning, disinfecting, and dressing. This could be as simple as washing your face and applying astringent. Which most astringents are alcohol based and then applying some topical redness reliever, like a cortizone cream. The cortizone reduces the size and makes the swelling go away. At worst case a bandaid, like a little bandaid plaster to keep out bacteria.

So many people pop a zit and wipe off what they can see with their finger. That spreads bacteria to all the other pores, plus anything you have on your finger is now wiped into an oozing open hole on your face. Basic hygiene is what is required. Leaving them alone can help but only because you not spreadin all that crap. But the acne will stay and cause great big sores sometimes. Best to get a comedome set like this.

https://www.amazon.com/BESTOPE-Blackhead-Remover-Comedone-Extractor/dp/B019SVHLEY

Hope this helps. I suffer from pimples like almost every one does. But this will help.

The product you linked calls it an "airless pump", but is it really? It doesn't look like it is airless. There would still be air in the bottle, right? Compare it to other airless pumps where it pushes the product up from the bottom. The inside of the container gets smaller as you use up product. Maybe see this one as an example.

I've used oil in that kind of pump before and it tends to ooze all over the place and create a mess. I feel a serum would be the same. Creams are best suited for pump style bottles, though I guess it doesn't hurt to give it a try.

You could try this- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CWY33U0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_ilXRzb8Z7JG4N

I found one on Amazon. Is this what you’re looking for? I think I might purchase it because I am so annoyed with pouring out too much makeup. Foundation Pump

Thanks for the reply! I don't know why I didn't think you'd be here, your like my skincare godmother lol. I was thinking about using it in it's original packaging but if something like this is necessary I can switch over to that.

So I've looked into some more DIY threads and I'm assuming you mean percentages, so for that I'm unsure if I need a digital scale. So I measure out the amount of oil cleanser I have now, roughly, using the digital scale. Then using another type of container, like a beaker, I measure out the correct number of Cromollient SCE I need, for example 0.60 ounces if I had about 5.40 ounces of mineral oil, to make the total batch 6 ounces. Am I missing anything?

Nail Polish Racks

I have a nail polish rack I use to keep my paints on I use the larger model but there are others designs including wall mounted. If I am careful it lifts easily in & out of a cupboard onto my painting table, if I ever bother to clean up the area. I have just bought another one yet to be assembled to hold my ever expanding paint collection. I have a row for each colour, all major brands of paint fit fine.

I use a paintbrush roll (check out art supply stores) to store my brushes and an old glass jar to stand them in when I am painting and a couple of old make up cases that zip up to store the many tools. The roll & cases all live in a small plastic box that fits next to the paint racks on my shelf, you know if I were to actually put them away.

PS First time trying to do a link. Sorry if it messes up.

Products:

Face

• Loreal True Match
  
• NYX HD Concealer
  
• Covergirl loose powder
  
• Maybelline FIT blush in Light Rose
  
  Eyes
  
  
• MAC eyeshadow in Vanilla
  
• MAC eyeshadow in Twinks
  
• Maybelline Line Stiletto in Black
  
• Maybelline The Falsies in Black
  
• These fake eyelashes in style 2
  
• Anastasia Dipbrow in Ebony
  
  Lips
  
  
• NYX lipstick in Chaos
  
  Does anyone have any advice on how to get your concealer to stop creasing? It's always been a problem and I'm not sure what to do.

15pcs Nail Art Painting Pen Brush!!!! :D make yo nails pretty

China Glaze Nail Polish, Concrete Catwalk, 0.5 Fluid Ounce


20 Pairs Regular Long and Thick Eyelashes Style 1 and 2

St. Ives Exfoliating Pads, 60 Count! If you're into makeup, you should be familiar with awesome skincare and these are amazing <3


Five dolla holla

I buy my falsies on Amazon, 20 pairs for $3 or so. Shipping takes about a month but it's free. They're not like, amazing quality but they're great and I get two uses out of them - I could probably get more but because they're so inexpensive I don't sweat it. Anyways I just placed an order last night and I was looking through the different styles - style 6 (can be found when you go to change the color) seems like it's what you're looking for. Here's the link! http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00538TSMU/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1419550410&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX200_QL40

I wasn't big in to make up at the time but for xmas 2012 I asked for a Coastal Scents makeup brush set that was $35 http://www.amazon.com/Coastal-Scents-Piece-Brush-Set/dp/B005UBN5AQ I have used maybe half the brushes and maybe 2-3 daily. I washed them every 2 weeks about and haven't had a problem with them falling apart or anything.

Real Techniques and EcoTools both have lovely brushes that are affordable and easy to find, so you can't go wrong with those. This set from Coastal Scents is also very nice and has great reviews. When I really started getting into makeup last year I got this set for around $25 on sale and have been very pleased so far. I only had one brush fall apart on me, but that was after I cleaned it improperly and got water in the ferrule. I have brushes from all three brands and would recommend any of them.

That is a coastal scents brush, from THIS SET. It is soft! I really like those brushes.

This one I found on amazon prime for ~$5 https://www.amazon.com/Every-Drop-Beauty-Spatula/dp/B0069VYSFM/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1510067340&sr=8-2&keywords=beauty+spatula

There's these long spatulas that might help.

I haven't tried the product, but amazon also has a bunch of options:

http://www.amazon.com/Every-Drop-Beauty-Spatula-Squeezers/dp/B0069VYSFM/ref=sr_1_1?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1412947781&sr=1-1&keywords=beauty+spatula

I use a tiny rubber spatula intended for getting the last drops of product out of bottles. It's like this but a different shape. Love it!

you can order a cosmetic spatula from online to try and scrape everything out from the bottle

Try this. I just bought one it is really useful.

http://www.amazon.com/Every-Beauty-Drop-Spatula/dp/B0069VYSFM

Beauty spatula

Everydrop spatula and jar threading (mason jar example).

Exactly. And they could save money on packaging, I would guess, if they used a plastic airless pump instead of glass. Though that would be worse for the environment, I suppose. With some I just rip out the plastic hole piece with pliers and decant it into an airless pump. It can be difficult to get it all out of the sides with glass, but I have the Every Drop Beauty Spatula (not an affiliate link) and that helps scrape down the sides. So ridiculous to have to go through that, though.

I got mine on amazon

pretty close

or this

I have a set of six airless pump bottles I got on Amazon -- that's what I depot my moisturizer and face wash (a squeezy tube is not the proper dispensing method for FAB's ultra repair face wash let me just say) into -- and they are a godsend. No product just falling out of the tube, no having to dip my fingers into a pot...I love these forever and always.

I use these and like them a lot. They are reusable and great for products you don't want exposed to air. They also don't leak!

I buy 6 pks on Amazon for about $16.00.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ED5HD08/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

These are really easy to use and clean. I make serums for my face and my own liquid foundation and I haven't had a problem with leaking or with the pump.

Check out the BS Mall brush sets on amazon, they're really inexpensive but great quality starter brushes! There are a few sets available and they come in different colors, I did a quick search and included two sets below.

Set 1
Set 2

Yep, there is also the Puff brand cotton, if you cant get the MUJI in France for some reason. Basically, just make sure you have Japanese Organic Cotton. Also, watch videos on the Scottish Roll wicking technique. Such a beautiful way to wick.

wire cutters, ceramic tip tweezers, pointed-curved needle tweezers (helps with cotton), cotton, wire (round or clapton), Coilmaster jig (not needed but incredibly handy), and cotton cutting scissors.Just to help you out even further ill link to specific items that are of quality and are cheap.

Wire cutters: https://www.fasttech.com/product/1243300-plato-170-flush-cutter-for-rebuildable-atomizers (3$)

ceramic tip tweezers for squeezing coils: https://www.fasttech.com/products/0/10005391/2134901-vetus-heat-resistant-stainless-steel-tweezers-for (3$)

needle tweezers : https://www.fasttech.com/products/0/10005391/1431601-vetus-stainless-steel-tweezers (1.50$)

cotton (puffs, labo): https://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1467837978&sr=1-1&keywords=cotton+puffs (6.50$ for like 200 sheets or something)

coilmaster jig: https://www.fasttech.com/products/0/10012320/3721500-coil-master-v3-6-in-1-e-cigarette-wire-coil-winder (7.50$)

alternatively you can spin your own coils with this jig: https://www.fasttech.com/products/0/10010836/1986902-vaping-coil-winding-jig-tool-for-rebuildable (2$)

cotton cutting scissors : https://www.fasttech.com/products/0/10002881/1215700-precision-stainless-steel-thrum-scissors (1.50$)

wire-cutters: https://www.fasttech.com/products/0/10003258/1243300-plato-170-flush-cutter-for-rebuildable-atomizers (3$)

pliers: https://www.fasttech.com/products/0/10003268/1244207-wlxy-mini-professional-long-nose-pliers (3.50$)

Remember when ordering from fasttech either use e-packet or DHL unless you want to have to wait like a year to get your stuff lol. You can also get wire from fasttech however I would Strongly suggest getting all your wires from Lightning Vapes, they have very high quality stuff for cheap also their premade 26x2/36 fused clapton spools are phenomenal. Hope this all helps sure you can just buy a builders kit but know you will be paying about 15x the amount you would if you just bought them separately however it is definitely really convenient

sure fused Claptons are great! but thats gonna ohm out very low in dule coil, 0.3ohm to 0.2 mabey lower, can your mod/battery handle that? if the answer to that is im not sure... dont do it!!! first go read more about ohms law and battery's . i dont want you blowing your mod up ;)

ok time for many links

TOOOOOOOOLS!

hook nose/needle nose tweasers for wicking

ceramic tweezers for coils

more ceramic tweezers these ones come with a coil jig!

wire cutters you need to get flush cutters so you can trim as close to the deck as posible

coil jig

alternatively you can go for a tool kit with everything in this one is legit good and even comes with some wire and cotton, the other cheaper versions like the ones i own are knock off's of this one and while usable are just not as good.

WIRE!

ok so your all jazzed on fused claptons but as its your first builds that may not be wise so here are some options, remember the lower the number the bigger the wire and therefore the lower the ohm.

kanthal 24g plain kanthal nice thick gauge good for beginners!

clapton 26g thin higher ohm clapton

clapton 24g thicker lower ohm clapton

fused clapton 2x24g big huge super low ohm fused Clapton, looks kinda funky but thats just how premade fused comes, i usually spin mine in a drill with pliers to take the twist out and make it easier to wrap.

staple wire incorectly labeled as alien this is staple/faltpton wire also super low ohm, its stacked ribbon wire with a Clapton around it

WICK!

fast cotton

cheap cotton

ok so theese are the same cotton almost exactly the difference being the fast option will get to you sooner, the cheap option is a huge bulk amount for a vastly reduced price but it will take a while to get to you like maybe a few weeks.

once you've got all that shit together its time to coil n wick.

coiling is easy so i wont cover that.
wicks can be a little tricky

1. take a cotton pad and cut a 4-6mm wide strip following the groove in the cotton,
   
   its important to have enough cotton to be snug in the coils ( to help it stop burning and wick enough juice otherwise dry hits)
   
   but not enough to jam up the wicking holes in the deck stoping the juice flowing up and giving you dry hits ... its a fine line
   
   
2. remove the top and bottom lair
   
   
3. roll it into a tube between your fingers
   
   
4. pinch the end and roll into a point then insert it into your coils
   
   
5. trim the ends
   
   
6. prime the wicks and coils with some juice
   
   
7. push them down into the wick holes
   
   jobs done vape on!
   
   hope this was helpful if you have any other questions go nuts
   
   i actually really enjoyed this youve kept me sane through a very long shift at work ;)

Hey man, here's what I use and the pretty basic needs:

get yourself a coil building kit, makes things much easier: Here

That will give you all the tools needed as well as some kanthal wire.

I suggest purchasing more wire though, gives you the freedom to find your favourite gauge: [Here] (http://www.wireandstuff.co.uk/products/Kanthal-A1-Type-Wire.html)

You will also want some cotton, [this] (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Cotton-Labo-Organic-Puff-200Pc/dp/B000TCD51A) stuff is the bees knees but takes forever to deliver from japan. So pick up some cotton in the mean time, I like [this] (http://www.vapeclub.co.uk/rda-rta-tanks-coils/fiber-freaks-density-no-1-cotton-blend-pads.html)

Then all you will need is your juice!

Well I buy them on Amazon. $5 per 200. That's 2.5 cents per sheet. They are charging 200 cents per sheet. That's 80* the purchase price. Or 8000% markup. And here they are: ORGANIC Cotton Makeup Puff, Medium https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_eWI4xb1H2CABT

I use this cotton. I've been on the same bag a little over 2 years. I've given plenty to friends and family for both vaping and other purposes and still have about 1/4 bag left.

Longest lasting vs price? For the sheer amount and what seems like a never ending supply: Labo Puffs Medium Organic Japanese Cotton Pads for less than $7

I only do vertical coils in my Kayfun, and life has gotten a lot easier since I got this:

http://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-Puff-200pc/dp/B000TCD51A


You cut a strip off, peel that apart so it's the right thickness, and slap it together. Easy mode and this stuff wicks very fast. Max VG gets sucked right up, it doesn't bead on it, nor does it need to be massaged in like I had to do with cotton balls.

The strip: http://imgur.com/lnsw9vS

All right! http://imgur.com/6YNq0iS


You can go all the way around with one piece like I did here, or for lower ohms that need extra fast wicking with a bit more of a buffer you can do two strips in a 'C' shape where both ends of one strip are in one well and the other strip's ends are in the other well.

If you're like me and nowhere near any stores, I like Muji 4-Layer Cotton, $6.80 for 60 pcs; and Daisan 5-Layer Cotton, $7.61 for 80 pcs. If I need smaller puffs I use Cotton Labo, $9 for 200 pcs. As I understand it though, the Shiseido ones are well worth the expense.

this is what i use.

Does the job, super cheap and loads of it. Shipping might take a while, but im very happy with it.

The Tip can be replaced with the Titanium tip. that is it.

You can vape hash, just need to buy some organic (Japanese?) cotton or some degummed hemp to put below your hash so it doesn't drip or melt down into condenser.

Only the top of the M and the Cap get hot, but they cool down extremely fast (especially the Cap), and after a few mins you can easily get the cap off with your fingers.

It is definitely worth a purchase imo. Is very efficient and easy to use. Just love mine.

I will weigh in on this. I use RTAs almost exclusively. I do also use 2 RDAs on squonk mods, and 1 sub ohm tank. I use the sub ohm tank at work becuase it is cheap and discreet in its vapor production. As for time it takes to rebuild a RDA or RTA? I can do most anything with dual coils in about 20 minutes without cleaning it for a flavor change. Rewickling can take about 5 minutes. I also tend to have my rebuild stuff at the ready though. Until you get the practice in to rebuild it will take you longer, but I also tend to rebuild while I am catching up on TV shows or just before bed. If you are still interested in rebuilding continue reading below.


For the beginner RDA user I would suggest starting with some cotton pads, and wire from Lightning Vapes (can't link to them because reddit is dumb at times). Other things you will need are some micro screwdrivers, and or a coiling jig for building coils on. Start with a gauge of wire around 28 or 26 ish.

For a beginner tank I would say get a Pharaoh or Pharaoh Mini from DigiFlavor. Both are easy to build and wick with a single coil. No messing with dual coils on these, and you can go from near mouth to lung to Cloudchaser if you want.

For an even easier, but not a tank, option would be the Mesh Pro by DigiFlavor paired with some mesh wire from Lightning Vapes. I use the ss 316L 0.37 ohm per foot mesh with it and end up at about .1 ohms. Go higher if you want, but this thing is a flavor beast, and I have no idea why more people don't recommend it. I can rebuild it in about 5 to 10 minutes depending on level of distractions I get.

The last resource I would tell you to use is steam-engine for making coils. You can go from as basic as a single wire spaced to crazy dumb build that can take hours to make with that site. It also includes 5 other calculators that may or may not pique your interest.

If you have any questions about any of what you just read just ask here or pm me. I suspect you will as I dumbed this down to the absolute basics to give you a frame work to go off of.

(P.S. I do not endorce, or even like Rip Trippers. I actually loathe him for the most part. The only thing he ever got right were the 2 RTAs I recommend you, but I think DigiFlavor had more to do with the design than Rip will ever admit.)

Rayon is awful. It tastes synthetic.

As for Japanese Cotton, thats the way to go.

Here u go sir: http://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-Puff-200pc/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1418408422&sr=8-1&keywords=japanese+cotton

Amazon for a lifetime supply of cotton for under 8 quid.

Cotton Labo:
http://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-Puff-200pc/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1421215396&sr=8-1&keywords=cotton+labo&pebp=1421215398276&peasin=B000TCD51A

The non add-on version

Cotton Labo from amazon is what I have been using lately.

http://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-Puff-200pc/dp/B000TCD51A

http://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-Puff-200pc/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1421523992&sr=8-1&keywords=Japanese+cotton

A good set of small screwdrivers, some sort of wire cutters, cotton, and a good pair of tweezers (preferably with ceramic tips)

Here's another link for it:

https://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_1?m=A23BMDV6UOKQGP&s=merchant-items&ie=UTF8&qid=1480823916&sr=1-1&refinements=p_4%3ASelena

Shipping on this one is not free ($2.99), but it ships from California. Can get it much faster if you need to. Their storefront also has a two-pack option for around $10 plus same shipping as the $5 pack.

My roommate and I order the two-pack and split it. We both really enjoy this one, and with 200 pieces per bag it'll last us quite a long, long, time.

a spool of 28g and a huge bag of puff cotton should only run you $10-$12 on amazon.

http://www.amazon.com/100ft-Kanthal-Resistance-Gauge-Lengths/dp/B00MW4V484/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1452887986&sr=8-1&keywords=28g+kanthal

http://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1452888021&sr=8-2&keywords=puff+cotton

I use the puffs cotton on amazon for wicks.
http://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1452779631&sr=8-1&keywords=puffs+cotton

I just use this stuff, really cheap and works well:

http://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1449103413&sr=8-1&keywords=organic+japanese+cotton

I don't own an Aromamizer so not sure what works best. Even if I did you could prefer something else so it's just trial and error really!

I would recommend a roll of 24 gauge (0.51mm) Kanthal A1 and something a bit thinner, I like 28 (0.32mm) because it's still easy to work with. You would use the 24 for lower ohm builds (example) and the 28 for slightly higher (example) builds. Also notice how the heat flux changes with the different wires on that page.

For cotton this is still what I would recommend. I personally don't believe the $20/sheet prepackaged vaping cotton adds much to the experience at all but ymmv. Another option is cellucotton or Rayon but I've never used it.

Here's a wicking guide for the aromamizer and a good way to 'make' your wick.

Some tools that everyone should have: kuro koiler style tool and a thing to poke with.

Just remember that with dual builds (the aromamizer can't do single coil I think?) both coils have to be identical.
There's no real best setting or build for anything, it's all about what you prefer so just get building and figure it out as you go.

Oh and watch a bunch of coil building videos on youtube if you haven't yet. Figure out how to avoid hot spots by dry burning and pinching them and all that.

If you still have the subox for a few more days maybe have a go at the rebuildable head that came with the kit.

I always build with 26g kanthal, I use about 1/3 width of one of those square pads of cotton. I peel off the top and bottom layer of the pad, fluff it out a bit, roll it up and twist it into the coil.

For the coil, I've been building a twisted coil at 3mm ID about 6 wraps. Depending on how much I twisted, it usually measures out between .5 and .7 ohms (my current coil is sitting at .60 ohms).

Can't say I've never had a dry fire, but they happen so rarely I never think about it (I'd say probably when I've gone far too long without rebuilding/rewicking)

http://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-Puff-200pc/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1426377028&sr=8-3&keywords=organic+cotton

Non-mobile: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1425565506&sr=8-1&keywords=japanese+cotton&dpPl=1&dpID=41Y1EJZVyxL&ref=plSrch&pi=AC_SY200_QL40

^That's ^why ^I'm ^here, ^I ^don't ^judge ^you. ^PM ^/u/xl0 ^if ^I'm ^causing ^any ^trouble. ^WUT?

No, but this is what I use and highly recommend.

Haha its all good man. Cotton is cheap, buy a big bag it'll last you a lifetime. http://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-Puff-200pc/dp/B000TCD51A

$5, last you like a year

Lol. The reason to use organic cotton is because of bleach. Whatever. Tastes like sock too.

This is what you want:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000TCD51A/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?qid=1457048231&sr=8-1&keywords=puffs+cotton

no but i have experience with this http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B000TCD51A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

and it's good stuffs.

I use these! Comes with 200 pads.

Labo Organic Puff

>When buying premade coils is there any you can suggest that are best for flavor?

If you plan to buy a tank, you can only buy the coils that are made for that tank. Smok and Pico would be fine. If you want to try building or having a show show you how to build, you can buy premade Clapton's coils. Doesn't really matter too much what brand. Pay attention to the suggested Wattage though, as different sizes will mean different sweet spots.

>Also what cotton is the best and/or cheapest?

The best is Japanese cotton. They're actually cotton pads that other people use for makeup removal and other skincare stuff. The kind you want is unbleached. This is a common one. This will last you months, if not years.

Something a little pricier is Cotton Bacon, a brand specifically made for building vapes with. I have no idea if it's worth it, but good vape stores will carry it.

>Sorry for all the also's but also would you recommend buying online or in a shop? I tend to be pretty impatient.

Stores: Pros: Are able to offer lots of juice suggestions, and you don't have to wait. They have weekly deals and membership programs. Cons: More expensive, don't always carry what you want.

Online: Pros: Don't have to leave your house, are much cheaper, have more variety. Cons: They have to check your age, which can be a pain online. It takes a few days to a few months depending on where the store is located (check shipping times).

If you buy a tank, just buy the coils online because you don't need to choose different coils. It will be the same one every time, so just buy a lot.

This is just excellent

https://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A

I use these: https://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A?ie=UTF8&*Version*=1&*entries*=0

I don't know if it can be your issue, but I quickly found that if I don't leave the bag sealed well, the cotton would taste absolutely horrible for a good little bit. I wouldn't say it tasted salty, but it definitely tasted wretched.

More a money saver and better vape then fun tbh, look at it this way. You can buy a pack of premade coils, say 5 for 10 bucks, or buy a 50-100 ft roll on SS wire and a bag of cotton for 10-15 dollars and make 100's of coils.

Wire

Cotton pads or cotton bacon(My preference for ease of use).

All you need besides that really is a screw driver like this and a pair of nail clippers.

You can get an ohm meter but I always just check it on the device, some people are against this but ehh...never had an issue in 2 years of building, just make sure it's in your devices ohm range.

https://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A

The Coil Master V3 jig/wrapping kit/tool/thing is really great. I've thoroughly enjoyed mine. MyVaporStore has it for only $12; great shop, ordered from them plenty and never had a problem. No need for trying to size out random screwdrivers; it has 1.5mm to 4.0mm posts ready to go.

Any little wire snips from the local hardware store should be fine (fingernail clippers can be used in a pinch). Also some ceramic tweezers are really useful for heating and testing your coils. Most vape shops online sell tweezers.

26 gauge has always seemed like a good go-to wire size for most applications

This cotton is cheap on Amazon and you get a bunch.
http://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_search_detailpage

If you really want to save money, see if your tank has an RBA head. It'll take a few times to get used to making your own coils, but once you have it down, the wire is under $3 at the moment, and all the cotton you could ever want costs $6.20. That's easily enough wire and cotton for 200+ rebuilds, for under $10.

http://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A Here you go man.

http://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-Puff-200pc/dp/B000TCD51A

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/shiseido-facial-cotton/2935650?origin=keywordsearch

Ko Gen Do is just one brand, you can find Japanese facial cotton in other brands as well, and as long as they're 100% organic cotton it's good to go. One brand that I find easier to find and purchase is Shiseido, and it's very similar to Ko Gen Do, the sheet is thiner and the fiber is even more uniform (plus it doesn't have the seed fragments in the sheet).

Best wire to make coils? I'm a fan of Lightning Vapes. If I'm not mistaken it's like $3-5 for 50' of most wire and they (at least used to, I haven't had to place an order in a while so I can't be sure) have free shipping on everything. For cotton just go w/ any unbleached organic cotton. I've been on a Rayon kick for quite some time, but if you'd prefer cotton definitely go with Japanese Cotton. I've used this for the past 2 years or so and it's the tits. Exponentially more product than you'd get from "Cotton Bacon" or any of those other shitty resellers that just repackage this stuff. And probably cheaper than the shitty small packs they sell you.

Stay away from any "vaping cotton", especially if it has "premium" and or "competition" slammed all over it.

Grab some Muji or Puff organic cotton from Amazon or any other store that has it for dirt cheap.

Has anyone here used Cotton Labo ORGANIC Cotton Puff?

Here

A lifetime supply. No boiling

what you need:

• A mod
  
• A dripper
  
• A battery (Sony VTC3, MNKE 20A, LG HE2, Samsung 25R are all good)
  
• A smart battery charger (one that stops charging at 4.2v) I use a Nitecore D2 which is very good
  
• Some kanthal to build your coil 28g is a good place to start
  
• Some good cotton to use as your wick
  
• An ohm reader so you don't overdraw your battery
  
• Small screwdrivers
  
  stuff that is useful:
  
  
• Wire cutters to cut your kanthal
  
• Needlenose pliers for a whole bunch of stuff
  
• Allen wrenches (small ones) or drill bits (small ones) to wrap your coils around
  
• Scissors to trim your cotton
  
• A magnifying glass with a stand (I find this incredibly useful for getting coils right the first time, rather than having to play with them a ton once they're in your dripper)
  
  >making me fear I'm going to explode my face with a poorly built coil or something.
  
  So long as you check your resistance using that ohm meter (just screw the dripper in and turn it on, it'll tell you the resistance), you wont overdraw your battery.
  
  >Also, is this stingray x a good product to start with?
  
  Yep, the stingray is a great mod.
  
  Basically once you get everything watch some tutorials on coil building, wrap your first coil, pop it in your dripper, check the resistance, if everything checks out put it on your mod, wick it, drip it, and vape away.

What coils? I use the Joyetech 1ohm CLR coils. I solved the gurgling by re-wicking them with a thicker piece of cotton. I like to make a wick that is just able to squeeze into the coil, it should be a tight fit. I find that a looser fitting, thinner wick is what causes the popping and gurgle problems for me. When I re-wick it becomes a very smooth even pull. I use this cotton to make my wicks.

I use ORGANIC Cotton Makeup Puff, Medium https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_OAjZBb49NKZ03

I got mine here

Yeah, much easier to get a consistent roll going.

I received the same exact note. Those puffs are great, a $12 bag will last you forever. I'm assuming you got these ?

If you chose to go the rebuilding route this is what you need, and some atty suggestions at the end.

You need- wire- http://www.amazon.com/Genuine-Lightning-Vapes-Kanthal-Resistance/dp/B00JVXVKB0/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1413428261&sr=8-2&keywords=kanthal+a1

cotton- either balls or pads http://www.amazon.com/Organic-Cotton-Balls-80-Count/dp/B00CD8FCRI/ref=sr_1_6?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1413428355&sr=1-6&keywords=organic+cotton http://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-Puff-200pc/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=pd_ybh_5

drill bit set- http://www.homedepot.com/p/Unbranded-Drill-Bit-Set-13-Piece-45110/204590609#product_description

Tweezers- any pharmacy

Disposable butane torch- any gas station

ohm reader- http://101vape.com/meters/170-ohms-meter.html
(most regulated mods have a built in one, but a reliable and exact external ohm meter is very good to have)

rebuildables- tanks- kayfun https://www.fasttech.com/p/1605200 (google some kayfun build tutorial videos, stay under 20 watts while vaping on it)

drippers- magma https://www.fasttech.com/p/1718100
zenith https://www.fasttech.com/p/1770202

(both of those drippers are a good start because you can block 1 air intake and make single coils untill you are comfortable enough to build dual coils)

I own these drippers and that tank. They are the cheapest clones on the market but all work great. Shipping takes 3 weeks, chose first class china e-packet as shipping option

OPTIONAL- coil jig, no need for drill bits, MAKES COIL BUILDING EASY https://www.fasttech.com/p/1878301 (I've honestly never tried this, but I recently ordered one to try out, should have it in 2 weeks)

Get puff organic cotton pads off of Amazon. They're the same price as the fasttech ones, but won't take 1+ weeks to get to you. The bag I bought has lasted over 2 years, and I'm only halfway through it.

https://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A

Edit: If there is a Sally's near you, their Cellucotton rayon is really good too.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Cotton-Labo-Organic-Puff-200Pc/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1543517619&sr=8-2&keywords=ORGANIC+Cotton+Makeup+Puff

UK amazon

I like these so far.

I really have to disagree here. The flavor effects from the cvs cotton can be pretty severe.

I WOULD recommend the cheap, EXTREMELY high quality and easy to work with LABO cotton from Amazon.

Cotton Labo ORGANIC Cotton Puff Size M (200pc) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_DD5Dub1064X56

I've been building an average of 20 builds a week on this and am not through an 8th of the bags and it's less than $8.00.

It's as good as the KGD stuff, and absolutely a STEAL for the price!

[This] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_q-n8yb43MAVBN) is what everyone else buys.

There are a few options:

• You can buy bags of organic cotton balls from your local drug store or Whole Foods for around $4.50 for an 80 count
  
• You can purchase Silica Wick (kinda unpopular)
  
• You can purchase Koh Gen Do or puff cotton (This is what most people swear by)
  
• There's also Rayon, which I prefer to use due to its price and availability
  
• And finally, some vapers are starting to use Hemp Wicks, which offer a slightly woody taste
  
  Hope this helps!

Well you can always try rayon for wicking.

amazon.fr Cotton Labo ORGANIC

I too am looking for an RDA so I have none to recommend. However, I thought you might be aided knowing what else you will need to know and buy when for an RDA:

• For determining the stats of the coils: http://www.steam-engine.org/coil.asp
  
• Kanthal wire: http://www.temcoindustrialpower.com/search.html?&category=Resistance_Wire&n=ADQ.q&c=0002000
  Can also buy from Amazon seller LightningVapes for $7 for 100' spool.
  
• Japanese cotton: http://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-Puff-200pc/dp/B000TCD51A

From what I've heard, a Lemo should be fine. A couple of alternatives though - I use a Kayfun Lite Plus on my MVP2 with excellent results. Also I heard that the Kayfun v4 was just cloned, that might be another option soon. I wouldn't use the Billow on a MVP2, or if so just use a single coil build - dual coil isn't going to work so well.

Regardless of what RTA you use, I'd suggest a 30 gauge wire at 1.7 ohm (6 wraps on a 3/32" drill bit) - this works fantastically on the MVP2. I go with small gauge wire (30 or 32) because of the lower amp limit on the MVP2 for a lower heat capacity (less time to heat up.)

Also, since you are new to building, also take a look at getting some Japanese Cotton to start out with. Take a look at this one, $7.50 and free shipping (if you order over $35, not hard to do this time of year :) ).

To answer your other question, you probably won't have to change your juice. I haven't noticed a ton of difference in that regard on my RTA compared to the Nautilus, at least if you are using the BVC coils. It does however provide much better flavor (at least on the Kayfun Lite Plus, can't speak about the Lemo.) With a RDA (dripper) you would have to think about that, but probably not on a RTA unless you are also getting a battery that can push a lot more wattage.

Also, I'd suggest you take a look at steam-engine. It is fantastic for getting started on building coils.

Edit Ninja edit for more info

$250 is way too much for what you listed, you can get way cheaper than that. Keep in mind you really don't NEED 100W to use an RDA. My homemade DNA30 is great for a cool vape on something with a bit more restricted airflow than the Mutation, but that will still work just fine. I would stick with your current Sigelei 30W until you know for sure you want to upgrade, because that is going to cost you the single most amount of money.

If you want the mutation x v2, grab it here for $30, its worth getting this one authentic and not a clone because its so cheap to begin with and most clones do not have the wide bore drip tip.

Japanese Cotton is what I usually use.

For the rest of your gear, Lightning Vapes has a good selection of well priced rebuilding supplies:

Ohm Meter $14.75

I recommend Ceramic Tweezers $12.95

I mostly use 28ga Kanthal (100 feet for $6.25) with my 30W box mod, with mechs I use lower gauges

I would also find a pair of flush cutters to snip wires as close to the posts as you can, and some nice small scissors to cut your cotton.

OH! Almost forgot, this is what I use to wrap my coils.

As a general rule of thumb, don't buy wire or wick from websites that sell mostly juice or hardware, it will almost always be overpriced.


If you want to get REALLY cheap and don't mind waiting, go check out Fasttech

Amazon is always good in regards to the cotton and wire. You can pick up the coilers cheap on fasttech. For the rda, eciggity probably has what you're looking for. And for a lot of cheap juice with VG options I'd suggest VapeWild. Out of all of those, you'll only pay shipping at eciggity.

I bought this one: http://www.amazon.de/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-200pc-japan/dp/B000TCD51A

Shipping (from japan) takes ages, but price and quality is decent.

Amazon.

When I first started out with building my own coils, I used this site to help me with what build I needed.

steam-engine.org

If you're using a tank, I'd suggest building at around 1.0-.5 ohms.

Here's a video on how to build coils.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BBpwZoxG3d0

https://www.lightningvapes.com/ - Nice place to buy your kanthal from. I've been vaping this wire for years now. A spool of a 100 feet would last you just as long. They also sell tools in the site like wire cutters, pliers, screw driver sets and tweezers. Even if you already have those laying around the house somewhere, I would buy a set just for your vape equipment to keep them clean and free from dirt and oil.

http://www.unkamensupplies.com/collections/stainless-steel-wire - If you want to get into the temp control world, I recommend stainless steel wire since it's a bit easier to build with as opposed to ni200 (nickel) and cheaper than titanium.

http://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1453484639&sr=8-1&keywords=puff+cotton - I bought this bag last April. My gf took half of it for makeup removal purposes and left the half for me to use for vaping. I'm still working on that half. It's a lot of cotton for close to $5.

If you have any questions, just send me a PM.

Edit: Also, I recommend you buy a 4-bay charger for your batteries. Even though it has an onboard battery charger, even the manufacturer recommends you use a separate charger. And marry those three batteries. Meaning charge them together and use them together. Never separate the three.

http://www.amazon.com/Nitecore-Version-Rechargeable-Batteries-Certified-OOPSTEK%C2%AE/dp/B00QF1QT2Q/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1453484800&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=nitecore+battery+charger&psc=1

A Tobeco Velocity clone or Sapor would be good starter RDAs. Both can be had very cheap, and are simple to build on. Both also have nice performance. For a "starter kit" I recommend picking up some kanthal from Lightning Vapes, and a kit like this. Edit: also cotton of course

http://www.amazon.com/3pcs-Kuro-Koiler-Coiling-CW-20/dp/B00UWD93QM

Those make the actual coil twisting super easy.

As for cotton

http://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_1?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1451420962&sr=1-1&keywords=japanese+cotton+puff

Is a lifetime supply of the good shit.

As for going through a 15ml every few days. I started ordering big bottles from guys off this list.

https://www.reddit.com/r/electronic_cigarette/comments/3ezao7/the_cheap_budget_bulk_ejuice_liquid_thread/

I have some plume juice right now and it is really good. Plus it is on sale so if your interested you can get a sweet price. http://vapecaviar.com/products/cstd-temptation-120ml-introductory-price?variant=4572955077

Still look and read more but, I hope this helps.

Best bang for the buck

http://vapenw.com/vape-kits/evic-vtc-mini

http://vapenw.com/sub-ohm-tank/black-white-subtank-mini-by-kangertech


http://www.lightningvapes.com/collections/batteries/products/lg-he4-18650-25a-2500mah-icr18650he4-flat-top (use coupon ohmsweetohm for 17% off)

http://www.amazon.com/NiteCore-i2-V2014-Universal-Intelligent-Batteries-Compatible/dp/B009JMDD9U/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1451284571&sr=8-5&keywords=18650+charger

http://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1451284621&sr=8-1&keywords=japanese+cotton

That is the basic kit. If you want to blow some big clouds, look into something other than the kanger subtank on vapenw.com. They have juice there, too.

Edit: The evic mini is a great device, since it has software ugprade, where you can now use SS, Ti, Kanthal, Nickel.

Cotton: http://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A/

For juice I recommend checking out Blue Dot or in a few hours Oasis Vape, the 40% Tuesday code goes active in the morning. There you can get 120ML for 12 bucks plus shipping.

Safe? Yes. Ideal? No. Btw we all vape on cotton here...wtvr the brand is. I found with drug store organic cotton is always popped and was shit but it's "safe." Just get some puff pads or muji.

https://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A these are my favourite pads. I use Kendo now but as far as pads go these are my favourite.

Here is the desktop version of your link

If you boil it, it'll work. But usually cotton balls aren't the best at wicking because the fibres are mangled, whereas they're aligned and straight in Japanese cotton sheets.

You might want to order that some day : http://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-Puff-200pc/dp/B000TCD51A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1427354753&sr=8-1&keywords=cotton

It'll save you money.

What kind were you looking for, there's Puffs, which seems to work fine for most folks.

http://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-Puff-200pc/dp/B000TCD51A

I'm not sure, since my B&M doesn't carry any cotton (at least none on display). Its this stuff and I really like it. I haven't used anything else to compare it to, but it works very well and doesn't have any odd flavors.

buy this pack and look for the wire separately. the pack of cotton I linked will last you a life time where the one in that pack you linked will last you maybe 2 or 3 weeks.

I noticed you using a specific cotton from amazon, but I found this gives you a larger amount of cotton per square cm with this, and it is cheaper also.

Return it and get these instead.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000TCD51A

Way better value. And work just as well.

And yes, they really do ship from Japan.

$6.15 with 2 day shipping.... https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000TCD51A/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1466900332&sr=8-1&keywords=japanese+cotton&pi=SY200_QL40

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000TCD51A?pc_redir=1408628145&robot_redir=1

That's what I use. If you order it use prime if you have it only takes a couple of days as it ship from the US if you don't it ships from Japan and takes two to three weeks

No, everything is full of chemicals. Hell, even cotton balls aren't safe unless they're made from organically grown non-bleached cotton.

Maybe.. just maybe.. you could find some organic / unbleached cotton pads at a beauty supply store.. or just go to a vape shop and buy some vaping cotton.

-

The best value on cotton is, hands down, this stuff: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000TCD51A/

Look on the right side where it says, "63 new from $5.25," then click that and scroll down to SOA Grocery. $6.40 and free shipping is the lowest price from a US vendor for 100 cotton pads. This should last any sane person longer than two years.

These are perfect http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000TCD51A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Pbusardo has a video on his youtube channel testing various wick materials, and the JC had the best performance.

http://www.amazon.co.jp/gp/product/B000TCD51A/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

~$3USD for 200

This stuff. I'm really happy with it so far. I got the Vulcan a couple months back and I've used maybe 4 or 5 pieces so far, and that includes ones I've wasted on coils that I didn't like or changed out after a day or two for whatever reason. I use a little more than half a piece per dual coil setup and it works great.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000TCD51A?cache=9cb1983981507ffde3dd9f3702154403&pi=SY200_QL40&qid=1414390401&sr=8-1#ref=mp_s_a_1_1

I like Real Techniques for their face brushes, but I think their eye brushes are a bit wonky-shaped. If you use Amazon, Lamora is super cheap and high quality. I love their eye brushes. I have both the 7 brush kit and the smokey eye kit. I've had them for over a year and they've survived washing once a week without shedding and they're just as soft as when I got them.

If you don't even know what the coils are made of, chances are you haven't been brought up to speed on coil resistance and battery safety. You don't mention what kind of mod you're using, but if it's a mech, get a vape shop to help you figure things out before you blow your face off.


That said, here are some things you will need eventually:

• Ohm reader (critical to avoid injury from too-low resistance)
  
• 28 guage Kanthal wire
  
• Cotton balls (organic, sterile, whatever), rolled cotton, or japanese cotton or rayon.
  
• Tweezers and a small screw driver set
  
• Nail clippers or small wire snips
  

Honestly I've bought puff and mugi off of Amazon and probably have enough cotton for atleast 2 years for under $30. If I had bought them in a B&M I probably would have spent quadruple that for 1/3 the product..... Honestly it's vape companies jacking up the prices on a dirt cheap and readily available products that makes me hate the industry some times...

YES!!! Mine too. So much cottony goodness! I got these :D

If you are not completely all for rayon, I'd suggest Japanese cotton.
I bought these 4 or 5 years ago and not even 1/4 way through it

https://www.amazon.com/Selena-Organic-Cotton-Puff-200Pc/dp/B00N7E9YYO/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=japanese+cotton&qid=1571150095&refinements=p_85%3A2470955011&rnid=2470954011&rps=1&s=beauty&sr=1-3

2nd AVS for wire needs, but never buy cotton from a vape retailer.

I bought a 2pack of this and it's lasted me 3 years or so. Way cheaper than what you'll find at a vape vendor.

EDITED: link

Using an Alien with a Goon and SS 316L claptons, core 26 gauge and wraps 36 gauge with 6/7 wraps at 3mm diameter. Tons of vapor and flavor. Only downside is that it goes through tons of liquid. I also think simple 24 gauge SS coils are great, and still produce a good amount of vapor and flavor.

I don't really like the bridge posts on the Goon-they provide a ton of space for building, but it takes me way longer to make sure a build is just right because it is so easy to jostle a coil out of place when everything is unscrewed. I think velocity style decks are way better for building on, but that's just me. However, the positives of the Goon make up for that issue, and it is my daily use RDA.

Here is the cotton I use: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00N7E9YYO/ref=pd_aw_sim_194_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=7WBX7QXC21Q5SP3EJHZY

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00N7E9YYO/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?qid=1457729654&sr=8-1&keywords=puff+japanese+cotton&pi=SX200_QL40 This is what I use and it's pretty great!

I'll just leave this here, The cotton is great, I havent had any issues and its 11 dollars for 400 pads... eyea

I have some Japanese cotton I got off Amazon, but so far in the 12-14 times I've rewicked I've only ever used this stuff from VapeWild. I got a bunch for free in one of my orders so I figured why not use it. Any idea what it is? It says "Japanese Organic Cotton," but it looks nothing like the stuff I bought on Amazon. It seems to work pretty great, and it's much higher quality than whatever cotton ships in the box with various RDAs/RTAs.

I bought this and it is practically a lifetime amount of cotton for me.
Amazon Cotton

Here's the two pack version

3¢/sheet vs $1/sheet @my local B&M

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VHA3ZXQ/


There ya go. I saw that comment last night, had my gf order it since she's got prime.. Was only 3$.. Haha

http://www.amazon.com/MUJI-Makeup-Facial-Cotton-Unbleached/dp/B00VHA3ZXQ?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00

http://www.amazon.com/Graham-Professional-Cellucotton-Beauty-Rayon/dp/B018IYY3I4?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00

I've been wicking with those cotton pads and rayon for a while and I haven't died yet / think they both work well.

http://www.amazon.com/Ball-Bearing-Swivels-Size-230lb/dp/B00ROFQXSM?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00

If you want to make claptons and have a vice (or want to rig up something to hold the bearings in place maybe with clamps on the edge of a table or something) in your work space you can keep the other end of the wire straight (while allowing it to rotate) with bearings, they help a lot, i think i have size 5. Just a thought, not a necessity.

Also consider 28g kanthal as well. It's pretty nice for twisted builds, and even a simple coil with a 3mm id and tons of wraps (like 12 to 14) has a lot of flavor from all the surface area. 26 is nice but I think it's a little warmer and has a little less flavor for me. I use 26 in some atomizers with more airflow though since the 28 can sometimes be too cool (I like 28 in a velocity though.. well I have some 27 as well I actually like that size but since the 28 seems to be my favorite for twisted I thought I'd recommend the 28).

I broke my coil master coil set tweezers (think the tips got brittle) and just replaced them instead of the tips with these and they are nice and flat and work well (and look cool)
http://www.amazon.com/Authentic-InnoVaper-Precision-Ceramic-Tweezers/dp/B018QRVWU0?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_search_detailpage

for pads koh gen do, or muji?

Edit:

http://www.amazon.com/MUJI-Makeup-Facial-Cotton-Unbleached/dp/B00VHA3ZXQ/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1462721224&sr=8-2&keywords=muji

http://www.amazon.com/Koh-Gen-Do-Organic-Cotton/dp/B00NU3H3KE/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1462721242&sr=1-1&keywords=koh+gen+do

Tools: Coil Master kit - all the tools you'll need to get started. The coil master jig itself is great and those scissors are really sharp, I've been looking for more of them to buy as backup and to leave around my house/car for various needs. But seriously, just buy that kit. All the tools in it are good quality and I use almost all of them every time I do a build. You can also find it on Amazon for a slightly lower price. The only tool that I use all the time not included in that kit is this screwdriver for the hex bits.

You'll want to get wire and cotton, no word yet on whether those will count as a tobacco product, but you can stock up for cheap, I've started buying from Lightning vapes via Amazon, hard to beat a 250ft spool for ~$10. Get some Nichrome (NI80), Kanthal and Stainless (SS316L).

Start with 24 gauge kanthal and 26 gauge nichrome and SS. Get 50-100 feet of each - it's cheap and will last a long time. Use Steam-Engine's "coil wrapping" tool to figure out how many wraps and what diameter you'll want, for example if I have 24ga Kanthal, dual coil, and I want around 0.5 ohm resistance and 2.5mm diameter, it says I should do 12 wraps. Reality might differ a bit, but it's a good guideline.

As for cotton the 3 most recommended ones are Koh Gen Do, Muji, or Puffs. I've been meaning to try Rayon as well - yes, that's really the stuff you want to buy. Almost everything marketed to vapers is a gimmick and is often the same products as these, repackaged and marked up. Any performance difference won't be worth the price.

You're probably going to want a new mod since that 40 watts won't be enough for most RDA builds. There are always tons of threads here about the best mod and batteries. Basically for 18650 batteries you can only trust LG, Sony and Samsung batteries, and there are many fakes. Two trusted vendors are IMRBatteries and Illumn. I wouldn't trust vendors selling through Amazon, or Chinese vendors. They aren't always selling fakes, but the risk is higher and there's less recourse if you do get fake batteries. You should also get some spare battery wraps and positive terminal insulators to have on hand in case you tear one of your battery wraps. In a few months, those too may be regulated as tobacco products.

Chargers are often overlooked, I think the best you can get right now is an XTAR VP4. People also like the Nitecore D4. Both will show you your batteries capacity and charging status and let you adjust the charging current, and will stop charging the battery when it is done. The VP4 has independent charging slots as well so there's no risk in mixing different batteries.

Everything you need to know for building has been explained better than I could, visually, countless times on YouTube, just look up videos explaining how to build coils on RDAs. Once you start doing it, it gets relatively easy. It requires a lot of patience and can be frustrating at times but it's also satisfying because once you've made some beautiful coils you get to enjoy the fruit of your labor.

I use BioDerma "sensibo" with the pink cap.

this one

And I use it with these:

Japanese cotton squares

No clue why the BioDerma seems to be sold out everywhere. Huh I may have to switch when I have to repurchase. I got mine on Amazon but it seems to be sold out there too. Weird.

Yep, building your own coils is great. I have pre-built coils for travel but make my own for everyday vaping. Getting one of these jigs makes it dead simple. Also some of these pads for your wick. It's all a bit upfront for the setup but pays for itself in no time.

Not sure what to recommend as a beginner friendly RDA, I have limited experience with a great many of them, so I'll leave that for someone that has been around a bit longer.

Whatever RDA you get, do yourself a favor and order extra post screws and o-rings for it. A lot can happen in 5 months, and it would be a tragedy if your new RDA is unusable because you lost a screw.

As far as gear needed, the three most essential, IMO, are ceramic tweezers a coil diameter jig, and flush cutters. <--- these are links to the ones I have. Maybe get a backup tweezers or two, ceramics can break, and they're cheap.

Since you will be isolated for awhile, you're going to need a good sized bag of cotton(I like Puff brand japanese organic), and coil wire, obviously!

Get yourself a spool of round wire of whatever coil material you prefer, 24 gauge is a pretty good size for simple round wire builds. You can usually get 100feet+ spools for a few bucks.

You can also get spools of pre-made claptons and such, I really like the ones from Advancevapesupply, and 15 feet of clapton wire goes a long way. I'd still recommend getting round wire as well, even if you order these.

You're going to inevitably have some bad builds, need to rewick many times before getting it right, so plan accordingly. Coil wire goes a long way, but cotton can go quick, a bag like this will last you more than 5 months, and is cheap https://www.amazon.com/Makeup-Facial-Cotton-Unbleached-180pcs/dp/B00VHA3ZXQ

nah. wire is extremely cheap (get a variety of common gauges), cotton wick is cheap too. this plus a pair of wire cutters is all you really need assuming you already have scissors/screwdrivers/etc

Hey dude, thanks for your interest. Put simply - if I were paying eight bob for five coils on the combo, I'd feel thoroughly ripped off :)

In my head - tanks like the baby are perfect for people who want minimum fuss, but drippers like the combo are perfect if you want to save money and vape -exactly- the way you want to. I'll admit that building coils can take some getting used to, but there are so many products out there to help you with that.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Makeup-Facial-Cotton-Unbleached-180pcs/dp/B00VHA3ZXQ/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1480017983&sr=8-1&keywords=muji+cotton

This bag of cotton plus a few spools of wire will easily last you for a long, long time. My coils tend to last a couple weeks before I want to change them (not including re-wicking the cotton, which I might do three times over a coil's life).

Spools of wire are, obviously, pretty cheap too. About a fiver for three metres on crazywire, or if you're not fussed about ordering from china gearbest sells wire too, which I've not had problems with.

So yeah - if you're interested in building, I'd steer away from RTAs and toward RDTAs - home made coils are cheap as anything, and I personally think the vape is far nicer anyway and definitely worth the time spent learning how to make coils. :)

Hey guys, for xmas I bought my wife a Smok g-priv, big baby beast tank, and a bunch of different flavored liquid including that 1,400ml deal for $75 the other day on here.

Long story short she loves it and has gone from a pack a day to only smoking one cig in the morning. That is HUGE for me and I am so proud of her. Anyways I want to double down and start myself as well. I have been watching a lot of rip tippers and plan on getting the smoant battlestar. But I really get into hobbies when I start them and would really like to get an RTA for mine and the equipment needed to make some really nice coils. After all my research I was leaning towards the merlin mini because people say it is easy and has great flavor. After trying this new Capone flavor on my wife’s vape I love it and I want more. The problem is I can’t find it in stock at Element Vape and I would preffer to use the same place for everything unless there is free shipping somewhere that does not take forever. Anyways now that the story is over here are my questions.

• Is this everything I need to start building coils?
  

1. Cotton
   
2. Wire
   
3. Coil Masters Kit v3
   
   

• Anywhere I can get the Merlin mini for a good price/free shipping and it will not take 10 days to get here?
  If not what is the next best tank. I really want a RTA because dripping constantly sounds horrible. It does not need to be single coil but from what I hear that is better for flavor and flavor is what I want.
  
  
• anything else I need or am missing? I plan on getting 2 LG HG2s.
  
  Edit: Formatting
  

I've never built on the Cledito but do yourself a favor and buy Cotton like this. So cheap.

I have that same bag of cotton. I've used cotton bacon and geek vape cotton, but this cotton works the best for me. It's really fluffy and wicks very nicely. Plus you get a shit ton for very inexpensive. $7 on amazon with prime

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00VHA3ZXQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
EDIT: Not available until January 7. Still an excellent deal.

I always buy from Amazon, but a branded produce like this:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00VHA3ZXQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

or this

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000TCEXOS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

UK
US

I know this doesn't help now but it's cheap and lasts for ages.

If you vape very sweet juice, coil mileage will vary.

Also "vape brand cotton" is a racket. I currently use [this stuff] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00VHA3ZXQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1520516984&sr=8-1&keywords=muji+cotton&dpPl=1&dpID=41kG7p1kSUL&ref=plSrch). "Un-bleached organic" is what to look for.

Edit: I promise I'm not selling anything. That link is only to reinforce a point.

It's something similar to this.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019SVHLEY/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apap_vFn1ZpZU5l5mv

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019SVHLEY

Amazon has refillable empty foundation bottles with pumps. I use this one.

Oh right; LIKE THIS

Do you know why they come in a dropper? I don't want to ruin the chemical composition if there's some science behind it.

According to CosRx: We wish we had a simple answer for you, but it’s actually quite complicated! There are pros and cons to both airless pumps and droppers. The “right” airless pump hasn’t been perfected yet specifically for vitamin C because airless pumps often contain metal, which is not great for vitamin C. Also, airless pumps don’t dispense the product in an ideal way and they’re just simply too expensive for not much guaranteed stabilization.

The small ones shown are these from Amazon (several size/quantity options available). They have a wide opening that is easy to fill, but refilling is a giant pain in the ass. It's hard to get the top off, and if you need to top off before you're empty product is likely to go everywhere. I'm not even sure they were meant to be refillable, to be honest.

The hair cream is in one of these, also from Amazon. They have a screw top, which is much easier to remove than the others, but the opening is rather narrow. I tried using one to decant my jar of CosRX snail cream but it was not worth the effort. Best suited for products in pumps or squeeze tubes.

is anyone using
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000TCD51A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Do you use the first layer?(the tougher outer layer)

I bought this stuff on Amazon and it works great. So much cotton.

I have always gone with this. I have always had good luck with it. Nice and fluffy especially if you use the Scottish roll method. Pretty low break in period too

For wire i usually go to and for cotton i bought this awhile back... delivery took awhile but worth the wait

Replacing the cotton wick in the atomizer head.

Most of the time, you're replacing the entire $2 atomizer head when all that's wrong with it is the cotton has gotten dirty or burnt. With the CLR coils (which is really the atomizer head, and contains the coil), you can easily replace the wick with fresh cotton at a fraction of the cost of an entire head. It's a very simple process, and takes just a few minutes at most. (FYI: This is pretty much a lifetime supply of cotton.)

Another advantage is that you can build your own coils if you like. A single CLR head could easily last over a year with frequent re-wicking and occasional rebuilding of the coil.

This is the one I got

Interesting. I can get a 100' spool of 26 guage Kanthal on Amazon from Lightning Vapes here for $5 + free shipping. The SAME THING on Lightning Vapes' web site is $7 + Shipping. Is there any reason that I should order direct from them as opposed to going through Amazon?



Also, would this be good cotton to wick with?

Amazon, http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00PQ1AQCU/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?qid=1427825357&sr=8-4&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70&keywords=28+gauge+kanthal+wire+lightning+vapes&dpPl=1&dpID=511NP-6hPzL&ref=plSrch

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000TCD51A/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1427825586&sr=8-1&keywords=japanese+organic+cotton&dpPl=1&dpID=41Y1EJZVyxL&ref=plSrch&pi=AC_SY200_QL40

About 5 spaced wraps of 28 gauge, 2.5 mm diameter should be about .5
Sorry on mobile.

I got: http://amzn.com/B000TCD51A
Seller: Tokyo Japanese Outlet

Got it in 3 days (Not Amazon Prime Avaliable)

But yeah great cotton, gonna last me a while.

I have been using Puffs for years with good results.

COTTON LABO Organic Cotton Large Puff, 0.23 Pound

https://www.amazon.com/COTTON-Organic-Cotton-Large-Pound/dp/B000TCEXOS/ref=sr_1_5_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1519245326&sr=1-5&keywords=Cotton+Labo+Organic+Cotton

The W6 is a bit wasted on an MVP2. You'll only realistically be building single coil setups until you get a more powerful device, so all those extra posts are just kind of going to get in the way.

Even with the 15% off coupon you still end up paying a premium on everything there.

If you don't mind waiting a week or two for epacket shipping from FastTech, plus a couple of things from Amazon, you can get a lot more for less money.

1:1 Stainless Stillare clone - $11.15 from FastTech, including wide-bore drip tip

TEMCo Kanthal A-1 30ga 100ft - $5.65 from Amazon

120 sheets Japanese organic cotton - $9.74 from Amazon.

That's $26.54 total. That leaves you enough money to toss in a good mech clone to your FT order and pick up a couple of high-drain 18650s from wherever, completing the setup.

I also highly recommend picking up a pair of flush cutters like these which are absolutely indispensable when rebuilding.

I played around a bit tonight, I think the most important thing is not packing it too tight since it has some distance to wick. I've been using this cotton which is this stuff on Amazon and half the price of koh gen do Japanese cotton that everyone raves about. Compared to my previous walmart and walgreens cotton balls, this stuff has zero taste from the first vape and wicks really well. My first two builds I was a little overzealous with packing, tonight I put in just enough to barely fill the gap between the center post and the triple 30ga BicknDalls coil, and it is absolutely awesome. I have 6 different filled builds on my desk and have been vaping nothing but the cats all night. Thanks again!

Seems I can't either right now. I'm on my phone though, which makes it much harder to navigate amazon.jp for some reason.


I have bought these before as well and I really like them. Cheaper than the Muji ones, but same good quality and they are also organic.

These work great: http://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-Puff-120pc/dp/B000TCEXOS/ref=pd_ys_sf_s_rp_a1_3_p?ie=UTF8&refRID=17WA6RXCHJAS8F8YA6ZQ

Selena cotton puffs separate cleanly and are resilient enough that I can use a single layer to wipe my face without any tearing!

I have sensitive skin and rosacea. The only physical exfoliation my skin truly handles are these cotton puffs for applying toner or micellar water. I use chemical exfoliation only. Even konjac sponges and super gentle microfiber cloths proved to be too much physical exfoliation with daily use. I double cleanse - I use an emollient cleansing balm followed by CeraVe hydrating cleanser. I don't follow up with the cleanser if I don't think I need to that day.

I love [these] (https://www.amazon.com/SELENA-Multi-Layer-Cotton-Puff-Count/dp/B00260T94K) for doing DIY toner masks. Each box contains 80 squares, and each square splits into 5 thin stretchy layers

I buy these ones from amazon

I'm planning to order a nail polish display case. They have tons on amazon in the $20-30 range and they fit sunglasses perfectly. I can't remember where I read this life hack but my husband is a sunglass hoarder (20+ pairs) so we desperately need something!

https://www.amazon.com/Bottle-Nail-Polish-Wall-Display/dp/B002WVBEH8

This here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002WVBEH8/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_Ff75tb179T0G8 it's amazing for the price!

I have a nail polish shelf like this on my wall. they come in all kinds of sizes and materials (wood, metal, plastic, etc) and can be custom built. this is good for not only displaying them like art, but also it helps you be able to see everything you have. I used to keep them in photo boxes sorted by colours and I found that I never used most of them because I couldn't see the bottles when they were stood upright.

I use a train case for all the tools/accessories. you could also try looking at arts and craft supply stuff because they often have all sorts of containers that can be useful for nail stuff (hobbies like jewelry making, sewing, scrapbooking, etc require lots of tiny pieces so the containers have little compartments for everything)

(I also recommend majorly decluttering if you haven't already. I used to have probably around 300 bottles of polish but one person obviously can't use that many, even if you did your nails every single day it would take years to get the moneys worth for every colour. just keep what you use, donate or sell the rest. so now I just keep what fits on the acrylic wall shelf)

This, because my shelf is already full and I have lots of pretty polish to display. Ohhh my. I have an addiction. lol.

I have a couple of these wall racks. They're pretty durable and I've never had an issue with the racks falling, even while filled to capacity. I just like how presentable they are and how easy it is to find the polish I'm looking for.

Here it is: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002WVBEH8?pc_redir=1398627938&robot_redir=1

It actually ended up holding 99 bottles for me.

I have this http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002WVBEH8/ref=redir_mdp_mobile?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_details_o02_s00_i00 and it looks like this :http://i.imgur.com/JPvopSL.jpg

This is what I got and it works pretty well =)

Your [oil and acrylic paint set] (http://www.amazon.com/Art-Advantage-Acrylic-Brush-24-Piece/dp/B0027AANDA/ref=wl_it_dp_v_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=1FABDSFSGERJM&coliid=I13DC49L3FVNNC) and my [essential eye brush set] (http://www.amazon.com/EcoTools-Piece-Essential-Eye-Brush/dp/B0030HMQTS/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=1YR1SLKQLJKJY&coliid=I3IFN9SOY1F8RO) belong together because although your art takes place on canvas and mine takes place on my face, we are kindred spirits. This means our implements are bonded through our mutual love of artistic expression.

Don't know if the exact same brush you're talking about is included, but I have been SO impressed with the Ecotools eye set (this one here, for the curious). Blending time = cut in half.

Happy half birthday! I was just thinking about birthdays :P

1. I usually go look at indie swatches if I'm bored. http://toxid-lotus.net/ here is one of my favorites. I also go on /r/netflixbestof and pick a Netflix movie to watch.
   
   
2. Sushi + green tea ice cream and dark chocolate + horchata + Nutella (eaten by the spoonful) + a family size bag of BBQ chips (the meal would last all day!)
   
   
3. EcoTools eye set + Real Techniques powder brush
   
   
4. John McCain was tortured during the Vietnam War and as a result is incapable of raising his arms above his head.
   
   
5. Flash This
   
   Thanks for hosting!

Real Techniques! I have this one: https://www.amazon.com/Real-Techniques-RLT-1406-real-Starter/dp/B004TSFE28/ref=sr_1_3_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1485494213&sr=1-3&keywords=real+techniques
and I like it!

First of all, HAPPY EARLY BIRTHDAY!!!

My go to fall colour is probably going to be Moss by Almay! I am a huggggggge fan of golds, so I'm trying to try something a tiny bit different for a change.

Swatch that I did myself

Swatch that I found online

Item from wishlist... BUT I LIKE SURPRISES!

and calling /u/ellyrose- to come on out (if she hasn't already)

Yeah, i got the name wrong in my post, it's Real Techniques Starter Kit https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B004TSFE28/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_BG-HxbPAXV03S

Came here to say this! It looks like they have a dedicated eye set now too.

The Real Techniques eye starter set (the purple pack) is coming up on lightning deal tomorrow morning (Thursday) at 8:40AM!

The first thing I learned about makeup is that you NEED to invest in GOOD brushes. Real Techniques is the way to go 100%.
Eye brush set.
Expert face brush.
The only other brush set I can recommend is Coastal Scents.

I think as far as lipsticks go, pinky MLBB shades are a good place to start. Wet N Wild has very cheap (but pigmented) colors to try and if she doesn't like them, then it's not much money wasted. I'd not want to buy a more expensive brand and her not like it. /: You know what I mean?

The ELF blush/contour kit. I've always heard great reviews of this little kit.

NYX Natural palette is a must imo. Very pigmented and all the nudes you need to pull off any natural eye look. Not to mention, the lightest shades can be used as a highlight and some of the darker shades can be used as a brow filler.

Hope this helps! Good luck to you and invite your friend here. <: SrslyGlammin

EDIT: Also. I great youtube channel for a lot of drugstore reviews (Don't buys and Do buys) is here and here. Same lady. Does awesome and informative reviews!

How awesome are you! The big question is: what's your budget!?

A couple reactions to your list: honestly if she is just starting out, this brush set is OK (not great, but OK). It does seem to have a lot of eye/detail brushes and not a lot for base. The thing is, she won't know what brushes she's in love with until she tries out a bunch. If she's into it, then she might want to buy better quality brushes in the kind she likes. I'm saying this also because I'm a mua and I use brushes kind of unconventionally and I find a lot of mu enthusiasts/pros are the same way (example--it might say "crease" brush, but I'll use it for buffing out concealer or smudging eyeliner). She won't know until she tries a bunch of different kinds, so I think getting a variety of inexpensive brushes isn't a bad idea. It also depends on the face she's working on?

You might want to splurge on one kinda decent set, too, though if you're saving a ton of money getting a more inexpensive set. This one might be good to start BUTTTTTTT if you have a TJMaxx near you DEFINITELY go check it out. You can get surprisingly decent brush sets there for a great price--you also might be able to feel them before buying to check them out. I got that RT eye brush set for, like, $7.99 or something.

The brush/sponge cleaner--If I were you, I'd save some $$ by just getting a baby shampoo or Dr. Bronner's soap. (Not to say that Eco Tools one is super pricey, but if she's washing her brushes as much as she should, she may run out quick). In my kit, I use Parian Spirit or Cinema Secrets, but it's kind of $$$. If I'm running low, I'll use baby shampoo because it's super gentle. For lip brushes or special fx makeup stuff, I'll even use Dawn. The silicone brush cleaner is a cool gadget, but be warned it can wreak havoc on brushes (esp. cheap brushes!)

The organizer is a good idea and it's cute, but the only thing is that type are kinda tricky in that they don't really hold that much. If she is really getting into it, maybe something more versatile? I'm obsessed with Muji organizers, but $$$. WAIT, just checked and they're having a sale: http://www.muji.us/store/health-beauty/makeup/makeup-storage-box.html

They are wonderful because they are SUPER versatile and all kind of fit together, so you can make your own little set up.

What about a cute vanity mirror? https://www.amazon.com/Daylight-Detachable-Magnification-Convenience-Definition/dp/B06XDNCV4M/ref=pd_sim_201_3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=KZM8NMHW9YNTDREEHZDN

Brush holder? https://www.amazon.com/Quality-Acrylic-Makeup-Cosmetic-Holder/dp/B0098TKSLU/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1505883877&sr=1-4&keywords=makeup+brush+holder

An amazing book that still has an insane amount of relevant information even 20 years later: https://www.amazon.com/Kevyn-Aucoin-Making-Faces-1st/dp/B00HTJY1KU/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1505884083&sr=8-4&keywords=making+faces

I use this guy for if I know I'm only doing one client. Would be great for personal use, too: https://www.amazon.com/Travelmall-Professional-Cosmetic-Organizer-functional/dp/B01ELDCK9A/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1505691979&sr=1-4&th=1

OK, I'm going to bed, haha! Have fun, you are an amazing sister and whatever you get her will be cherished.

1. I'm guessing reddit doesn't count. I'm also an on-again-off-again regular at The Pink Room, a chat board for fans of Ju-Ju-Be bags (mostly moms, but lots of nice people there).
   
   
2. Ever since I was a very young kid, my choice birthday meal has been Steak 'Um Roll-Ups. Take Steak Ums, wrap them around stuffing, cover in gravy, mushrooms, and French's fried onions, and bake them. mmmmm
   
   
3. Real Techniques Starter Set & NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in Cottage Cheese
   
   
   
4. Some animals, including goats and octopi, have rectangular pupils!
   
   
5. Flash This
   

Flash This

1. This is my life I also spend some time here drooling mostly.
   
   
2. I would love a nice hot homecooked Turkey/Thanksgiving meal for my birthday because...yum! I love stuffing and mashed potatoes. I could eat them FOREVER.
   
   
3. This isn't 20 dolla but it's about as close as I have on my WL without going over. or dis because it's fall!!
   
   
4. I recently learned that our government is useless. Yipppeee!
   
   

This is just what I do so obviously you don't have to listen to any or all of my advice.

If your looking for good brushes but not super expensive then I'd recommend this Real Techniques brush set. It's on sale right now on Amazon or I think Ulta is doing some type of buy 1 get 1 50% off something or other. If you want individual brushes I'd go for Morphe or Coastal Scents. For simple looks I think an all over lid brush, a crease brush, and a blending brush is great to start with. I feel like with those three you can use them for a lot of looks until you're ready to build up your collection.

For shadows you can pick up E.L.F, Coastal Scents, Nyx, and BH Palettes are nice starters. Some shades aren't the greatest quality but if your practicing and don't want to spend a lot then it'll go far. They have palettes for several different styles depending on what color you want to go. Or if you don't want tons of shades and want singles you can try MakeupGeek or Coastal Scents. They sell single pans so you only have what you want in your collection. I'd also pick up a primer if you have the funds. You can get Nyx eyelid primer for about $7.00 and it'll help your shadows stay on your lids without creasing.

For eyeshadow tutorials I feel like picture tutorials are best. Videos for me are awful because I hate pausing to finish my step to get to the next step because they're faster than me. Picture tutorials are great because I can pull it up on my phone in my bathroom zoom in on the step and move onto the next one. Not saying I only use picture tutorials because I watch Youtube videos to learn blending techniques etc. You can always search Pinterest for picture tutorials

Typically what I do for the pics you linked is:

(For this example let's say I'm using Twilight, Prom Night, and Sensuous from [This MakeupGeek swatches]) for hopefully an easy follow through)

1: Prime the lids and let it sit for a moment unless it states otherwise. Some things like glitter glue etc need to be tacky.

2: Take a crease (or similar brush) and take a light color like Twilight and put it in your crease. I'd swipe the brush back and forth on your crease until you've reached the opacity you like. You can always bring it higher than your crease if you like that look as well.

3: Take an all over lid brush (or similar) and put another color such as Prom Night all over the lid but not above the crease. Again put on as much or as little as you want until you've reached the opacity you'd like.

4: I like to go back with a crease brush and apply more Twilight to the crease and blending them together so there's no harsh line.

5: If you want to take the look further you can take the crease brush once more and apply Sensuous to the crease from the outside of your eye towards the inside until about halfway or your desired spot.

6: Blend it out so there are no harsh lines and apply more Twilight to your crease if necessary.

I hope you find what your looking for and hopefully this helped a little bit!

These real techniques brushes are great! And they aren't expensive at all!

I bought the Coastal Scents 22 piece set from Amazon a while back and I really like it, great variety. I've never used high end brushes like Sigma so I can't compare but I haven't had a major problem with shedding or anything like that. Real Techniques is great too and they're on sale on Amazon right now. I also really like Sephora's Daily Brush Cleaner Spray, super convenient!

OMG I just got these and these to replace some shitty ass Mary Kay brushes I should have never bought.

The Shany ones are SO soft... they've shed a little bit worth it. The reviews say they have a 'chemical' smell which they do out of the package, but since I washed them before I used them it was an irrelevant point.

Real Techniques are just amazeballs in any form.

What razor blades are you using? Different people have different skin and hair types, and find that different blades work for them. If you're cutting up your face like that, maybe try a different brand of blade. I'd suggest getting a sampler pack so that you can try a bunch and figure out which ones work the best for your skin.

For example: http://www.amazon.com/FEATHER-Oclock-BLUEBIRD-Blade-Sampler/dp/B007OL72B8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1422349875&sr=8-1&keywords=safety+razor+sample+pack

It took me a bit of practice and a bunch of razors to get it right, since some tugged on my skin and others were too sharp (hello nick city). My favorite is Blue Bird, they work perfectly for me. Skin prep is really important too! I use Arko shave sticks and an Ecotools brush. The shave sticks lather nicely and last forever (one stick lasted me about 4 months of shaving my legs).

http://www.amazon.com/Arko-Shaving-Stick-White-Count/dp/B000VAWZ2U/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1422349852&sr=8-2&keywords=arko+shave+stick

http://www.amazon.com/Ecotools-Bamboo-Finishing-Kabuki-Pounds/dp/B004W17O7A/ref=sr_1_21?ie=UTF8&qid=1422349923&sr=8-21&keywords=ecotools+brush

Album

I've mentioned this setup at some point here, but now with pictures! I'm sick and working from home today, so I need something to get my mind off of this grant writing.

Shave:

• Lord L6, Astra SP blades. Razor is $9 on amazon. Blades are 20 cents a pop if bought in small batches, or 10 cents a pop if bought in larger quantities. each blade lasts me 2-3 shaves.
  
• Arko (less than 5 bucks for a 2-pack).
  
• Razorock alum $7
  
• Ecotools makeup brush - cheap, synthetic 2-pack from amazon
  
  Probably one of the cheapest full shave kits you can buy. The single Arko stick has lasted me 2 years so far, and I anticipate it will last another 3-4 until it becomes a mushy pile. Arko works really well with the extremely hard water we get in southern california.
  
  I only shave 2-3 times a week, and lathering straight onto the face reduces the amount of soap wasted. First thing I would upgrade is the brush, followed by a search for an aftershave after the alum.
  
  I would highly recommend the Lord. Some people seem to have longevity issues with the aluminum handle screwing into the heavier-metal head, but as long as you don't force it you won't strip the threads. Supposed to shave like a Merkur for a fraction of the cost.
  
  Coffee:
  
  
• Aeropress (inverted)
  
• Porlex mini grinder
  
• Burundi beans, lighter roast.
  
  Not my favorite roast, but probably my favorite extraction process (I also own turkish coffee, french press, moka pot, vacuum pot/siphon). Inverted, it acts like a french press with a paper filter. Of course, it also means you have a foot-tall precarious boiling-water hazard, which has been an issue some drowsy mornings.

I can tell you what I ordered online: I basically ended up following The official under $50 post.

Sodial. But mind you, I am still waiting for it to get here (its been only 5 days) from China. Apparently its not too short of a wait.

This blade sampler pack. This is from England so, again there is a significant wait.

The Ecotools Kabushi brush. I got mine from a walgreens for $8.

Also someday I want to get the 22mm octogon resin handle silvertip from Whipped Dog. $26

I got proraso from a local buisness as my shave cream but i'll let you figure out what you want to get him. Perhaps the sampler pack from Maggard Razors.

Hope this was helpful. Perhaps you already knew most of this but I figured if I'm just saying what everyone else has already said, there is always a downvote button.

A good double-edge safety razor, blade sampler pack, shaving brush, and shaving soap can free the both of you from expensive cartridge razors and canned goo. It could take you a little bit to learn how to shave the "old fashioned" way, but as someone who recently took the plunge, it's worth it. Gives a much better shave for a fraction of the cost. (Replacement blades are usually $0.07 - $0.30 each)

If you have hard water, you may want to go with a shaving cream instead, or you could get a gallon of distilled water for $1 that will last you through about a month's worth of shaves.

Shameless plug for /r/wicked_edge. There are a lot of resources there to help you transition.

[edit] Here's a cheaper alternate razor - this is what I have. You can get them even cheaper if you want to wait a few weeks.

I've been shaving with this since 2014 and was thinking of upgrading. What do you guys think about synthetic brushes?

I have great success with a synthetic brush like the one linked below. It creates excellent lather in a very short amount of time. Never going back to animal hair.

https://www.amazon.com/Ecotools-Bamboo-Finishing-Kabuki-Pounds/dp/B004W17O7A

Edit: adjusted for price range

Depends on what your looking for really. For $75 you could buy a cheap badger brush and gold plate it =p (maybe). Are you looking for a fancy nice looking brush. Or just a badger brush that people recommend?

Personally my favorite brush so far is just a synthetic one from amazon, which many people highly recommend. the Eco Tools finishing brush, which is $12 for two. its not exactly super badger, but for the price its worth a shot. Maybe some of the more experienced guys can chime in though, I havent tried very many brushes.

http://www.amazon.com/Ecotools-Bamboo-Finishing-Kabuki-Pounds/dp/B004W17O7A/ref=sr_1_21?ie=UTF8&qid=1375372441&sr=8-21&keywords=eco+tools+bamboo+brush

I bought them for $15. But now they are going for $12.

Link

I would probably return / trash that brush and grab this $9 synthetic brush that I really like, or this inexpensive synthetic one that leisureguy really likes. (Or maybe I'm just biased because I know how many nicks / weepers I've painted over for my second / third pass and would not feel OK using someone else's old brush.) (The anthrax concerns obsolete at this point though. :))

Then consider whether you really want to learn to shave with an SE (single edge) safety razor, which has fewer blade choices and a different technique than a DE (double edge) razor.

If so, then grab some blades for use with your Gem razor (the Valet AutoStrop apparently does not take standard SE blades).

If not, then consider picking up a DE razor, which can start as low as $3 or so and a blade sampler pack, that will allow you to choose from a variety of blades as you go. (If you've got a little extra $, the Edwin Jagger is a very well regarded mild razor.)

In terms of soap, make sure it's not just a bath bar with clay added and marketed as a shaving soap, as many homemade soap companies do that, and it's usually a sub-optimal product. Look for a soap that's well thought of on the shaving forums. (You can find soaps made without animal products for shaving if you look around.)

Once you've got your full set up, then the first step is to practice making lather. A good lather is the foundation for a good shave. Practice 5-10 latherings at least, making lather on the brush or in a bowl, then lathering up your non-dominant hand for practice.

Then start shaving. Remember to use NO PRESSURE. Use a sharp blade and just let the razor do the work.

Good luck! We're here to help!

Oh, the lie I'd been living with cartridges.

After my initial success with the Parker 71r I picked up from Amazon (using gel), I switched blades, and was very disappointed by the second brand I tried (Sharp).

My Ecotools brush, and La Toja Shaving Stick finally came in the mail today! No more canned goo!

So I popped a fresh Shark blade into my Parker, lathered up (surprisingly easy enough to get a newbie lather), and couldn't have been happier with the results.

No razor burn. A small nick. BBS.

I dare say, it was the best shave I've ever had.

Hmm. I use this rack meant for nail polish. I'd have to count to see how many bottles I'm actually able to fit in there. The Vallejo rack looks like it holds 52 or so, plus spaces for larger bottles in the back. I want to say this nail polish rack holds 70+. It works pretty well, too.

This can sit on a table/vanity/desk/whatever

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0052FZ3CI/ref=yo_ii_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Bought my fiance a smaller one of these for christmas and a light bulb went off in my head. So I purchased this one for all my flavor bottles

Easy as Pie!

oh my goodness you are hard to shop for. I'd have no idea what to buy for you.

I am awesome at TWIRLING MY PASTIES! This video is NSFW! By the way lol I am on the left...
This is what I would Looooooove, so that my eyes are purty ;)

Thanks for the contest, sugar! And I think this is pretty creative for a first try. <3

Snow, snow, go away

You are soooo very pretty inside and out!

Hair Bow $1.40

Wig Holder $3.99

Drip Dry Hangers $8.20

Raspberry Tea $4.71

All of the eyelashes $1.70


All totaled out to exactly $20
Thanks for the contest!

These lashes are $2.15 with free shipping, under my beauty wishlist.

Don't feel bad, I missed my cake day too! Here's to waiting another year.

What makes me beautiful!

Just added this to my wishlist yesterday, its such a pretty colour!



But this is my cheapest make up related item :)

Thanks for the contest!

1. www.ulta.com and www.pinterest.com. I know, I'm lame.
   
   
2. Mmmm, for my dinner two days ago I went to a buffet and ate everything. Salad, steak, mac and cheese (the cheesiest kind ever), dessert, slurpee's.
   
   
3. Can I put things that add up to 20 or no? If not you can just pick one of the things: Lipstick organizer, Lash glue, Lash holder thingy, and lashes! It all equals 20.36 with shipping and all things I've been lusting over!
   
   
4. Babies have a reflex called the Calming Reflex and it's super interesting the things you can do to trigger it and just make the baby become super calm!
   
   
5. Flash This!

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00538TSMU/ref=cm_sw_r_an_am_ap_am_us?ie=UTF8

Echo

:)

I think this is kind of cool . I'm always getting mascara below my bottom lashes.


I want these for practice !!!


These are another thing I think we could all use !!

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00538TSMU/ref=oh_details_o04_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 girl I got your back :)

Amazon pay Jerron right meow. this is my item, and thanks for doing this!

DUDE. $34 22 Piece Coastal Scents brush set also comes in a bitchin' carrying case. Has all your basics that you'd ever need, you can get it from Amazon. Has a few face brushes but primarily eye and a couple of lip ones. Mine just came in a few days ago and I am in love. Haven't used the brushes yet but they seem to be of solid quality.

For what it's worth, I also have experience using Real Techniques, Ecotools, ELF and Sigma. For the price, this package can't be beat.

Link: http://www.amazon.com/Coastal-Scents-Piece-Brush-Set/dp/B005UBN5AQ

I agree. I have this coastal scents set, and I love it. I bought the same set for my sister-in-law too. Although we're both stumped as to what to do with that gigantic fan brush lol.

Congrats on getting into makeup! It's going to change your life!

Since you're just starting, I would go and get my brows cleaned up a little so you know what shape you're working with. Read reviews of brow places and such before you go - I personally prefer threading over waxing, and make sure to communicate that you don't want them thin, just cleaned up. I can't tell from the picture, but you may also want to get your lip threaded if it's noticeable. I like to have a clean look in this regard because then the makeup looks even better.

I would also look into a quality moisturizer and facial cleanser if you don't have those already. Also makeup remover and makeup brushes. All that good stuff. I recently bought [this set of brushes] (http://www.amazon.com/Coastal-Scents-Piece-Brush-Set/dp/B005UBN5AQ) from Coastal Scents which are pretty good quality in my opinion.

When I really started getting into makeup techniques I watched a bunch of youtube tutorials. I lurked MUA as well for product recommendations inspiration, but watching videos made it easier for me to get the techniques down. At first it will be a lot of trial and error and figuring out what's "too much," etc, but you'll develop the skills over time with practice and feedback. Don't get discouraged like I used to. It just takes time. Luckily it will take less time with the right resources, which I unfortunately never looked into years ago!

I included a few links to some youtube tutorials below. Not saying you should replicate any of these particular looks exactly, but they will help you get used to what you should be doing. I'm not sure which foundation is best for your complexion, so I can't really give advice on that. I have been using Makeup Forever HD Invisible Cover Foundation for years because it just seems to work for me. I also like the Hello Flawless powder from Benefit. For eyeshadows, brow powder, and liner, I first tried those out with cheaper makeup, from ELF or the drugstore, and then researched and bought the better ones once I got the hang of it and had more of an idea of the right colors for me.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TvKymDP85JI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SC0NiHiZ3n8

https://www.youtube.com/user/MichellePhan/videos?sort=p&view=0&flow=grid

Hope this helps!

Edit: formatting

I bought the Coastal Scents 22 piece brush set about a year ago and it's worked fabulously for me. I think what sold me is there is a variety of real and synthetic brushes in it (depending on the brush type) which actually does make a big difference. Also, in the year that I've had them, there has been hardly any fallout. It's a solid set given the cost.

http://www.amazon.com/Coastal-Scents-Piece-Brush-Set/dp/B005UBN5AQ

Since I don't have an ALP I can't say specifically for that. I have a brush that I use for my ALB to get it to apply in a more even manner, but I don't know the name of it unfortunately :( I got it in my Coastal Scents brush set. I'm trying to find the set on Amazon now, I'll edit this post when I do :)

Edit: [Found it!] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005UBN5AQ/ref=oh_details_o05_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1) it's brush #3- round powder synthetic hair brush.

For anyone curious about what to store your liquid foundation in after you've hacked open the bottle, these are the guys I use and found to be a good size and pretty damn airtight. I had tried several others in the past, but they don't travel as well as these do.

Also, this is hokey but every year my aunt gives this to us and I swear by this damn thing for glass bottles in case anyone wanted to know how to get every lost drop from bottles you can't just hack open lol.

Wow, TIL there's such a thing as a beauty spatula! I just added [this] (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0069VYSFM/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=3RW1WU31M2I07&coliid=I3ZQMZH21DJR6) and [this] (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00D6JX3HE/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=3RW1WU31M2I07&coliid=I3N6INE648ZJ1D) to my wishlists. Nice!

If you’re really interested, I’d buy a makeup spatula. The one I have that I feel does best with wnw foundation (I always transfer it into an airless pump upon buying because I hate the built-in spatula) is:

Every Drop Beauty Spatula https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0069VYSFM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_-KhUBb43D8F2D

When I worked at Ulta, they used those disposable makeup spatulas. Since you'll be the only one using it, maybe check this out -> Every Drop Beauty Spatula

Here's an amazon link!

there is one, I've seen it. I'll look it up for you and get back to it, but there's a specific object made for this purpose
edit: there's this and this

The cheapest would be: A pimple killer!

Something I would really love would be: The ultimate tool as a filmmaker :p

Thanks ;)

1

2

3 (Mental health)

Thanks for the contest!

I'm so sorry about your day =( that was definitely me on Sunday. Started out okay, but just one thing and then another and then another and then poof! Good day gone. Tomorrow is another day! Cheap-o Item-o

.83

You need a blemish remover! They're barely over a $1 on Amazon. They work good on those kinds of areas!

Super cheap thing :D

I love these airless pump bottles. I already decant jar-packaged products into them for full-time use bc they're way less messy / easier to use in bed while watching Netflix (real talk...)

I take all of the following on trips, but there are inevitably days that I just cleanse + moisturize and pass out.

• Inisfree cleansing oil (decant in airless bottle)
  
• su:m37 Miracle Rose Cleansing Stick
  
• Missha Time Revolution FTE (in spritz bottle)
  
• Hada Labo lotion (decant in airless bottle)
  
• Mizon All-in-One Snail Repair cream (decant)
  
• Benton Snail Bee essence
  
• CeraVe PM moisturizer
  
• CeraVe eye cream (this one almost ALWAYS gets forgotten, lol)
  
  I usually carry a few makeup remover wipes in a little ziplock. I also bring my Biore sunscreen, but the bottles are so small it's not a problem anyway (sob).

Here is where I found them.

Yeah, i just poured it into the bottle. DW is 1 oz and these pumps are 1 oz so it should all fit, especially since you've probably already used some. but heres a six pack if you're concerned about that.
obviously let the bottle sit upside down but i use these starbucks splash sticks to scrape everything out of the bottle.
the pump makes all the difference! good luck <3

Currently, I keep the left over essence in the original packaging of the mask and I put that into a ziploc bag. In terms of safety, I'm not too sure how badly minimal amounts of air can affect the cleanliness of the leftover essence. However, I have been looking into these airless pumps! I plan on purchasing them and some other AB essentials when I get my 5% cash back on Amazon. ;p

I see that you are using OST 20.

Try using this

Its an airless vacuum bottle. It will save your OST20 from oxidizing quickly. really this is gold! They also sell in different quantities.

Not OC, but I ordered these a few months ago and am using 3 or 4 right now.

Airless pumps are great ideas for stuff you normally have to stick your fingers in! Here are the ones I've used with great success.

Hope your week goes quickly and spring break is awesome!

I toss them! But that's also because I immediately decant them into airless pump bottles (linked below) because it's such a hassle for me to use and sanitize spatulas every day. Also, the pumps are airless, so less chance of the ingredients in the product being compromised.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ED5HD08/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I bought some of these off of amazon for my creams that are in jars and they last much longer! Just one pump is enough to lightly cover my face :)

I love my RT and Sedona Lace brushes but man you can't beat these for the price: http://www.amazon.com/BS-MALL-Synthetic-Cosmetics-Foundation-Blending/dp/B00I3VHKVK/ref=sr_1_4?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1450053633&sr=1-4&keywords=makeup+brush

Weird, those look exactly like this random set I got on Amazon recently: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00I3VHKVK/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Assuming they are similar/the same, the brushes are suuper dense and fluffy. Insane quality for $15. I really like using the large ones for foundations, contouring creams, and blush. Not fluffy enough to use for face powder and powder contour in my opinion, but I already had brushes for that so it's fine. The eye brushes are really good for blending and shaping color in the crease. I prefer a flat brush for applying to the lid, these ones aren't quite as good at picking up depositing a lot of color at once, I've found.

Here you go!

Makeup Eye Brush Set - Eyeshadow... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MNMQKPC?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share



I recently got these and like them. Not the greatest quality, of course, but doable.

Yes I used an urban decay anti aging eye primer, it is not tinted. I did how ever use a translucent setting powder to set and not an all over shade. I used 3 shades and a shimmer for the lid/ I copied a tutorial I watched and used the same shades
The brush set I use is here
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MNMQKPC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_e92XBb876QMWC (not really sure which brushes I should be using)
I use the big fluffy one the most

thank you so much for the reply! I think my blending is ok? I feel like I see other people blend on youtube and it looks smoother than my blending. I have to spend a long time on blending. It's good to hear a brush can help with that! I will look at that brush incase I ever catch the chance to buy it. I'll go look into the IT cosmetic brush line now :)!

edit: Are they these?: https://www.amazon.com/Makeup-Eye-Brush-Set-Eyeshadow/dp/B00MNMQKPC?th=1#customerReviews
They have amazing reviews!! I think I might have to get them if they have such a great quality for that price.

Personally when I first started wearing eyeshadow regularly, like 1.5-2 years ago, I bought a set of eyeshadow brushes from Amazon. The brand is lamora. I still use them.

Makeup Eye Brush Set - Eyeshadow Eyeliner Blending Crease Kit - Best Choice 7 Essential Makeup Brushes - Pencil, Shader, Tapered, Definer - Last Longer, Apply Better Makeup & Make You Look Flawless https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MNMQKPC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_IQ9XDb4AE0ERT

Not available on prime, and comes in a pack of two, which is more than I need. I'd be willing to split it with another NYC based Redditor, though. EDIT Out of stock on prime. Still 2. Might talk my lady into taking the other.

/u/LeisureGuy suggests the Ecotools Kabuki Bamboo synthetic brush - I have had it for the past year or so now, and it's served the purpose well for me.

Some folks here have reported that it sux, but not for me - I have not had any problems with it generating enough lather for a 3 pass shave (even though most of the time, I'm done by 2 passes)

Thanks for the advice! I was looking at samplers, but the price of those Personas are appealing, so I had to ask.

This is what I was looking at for a kit:

• Razor
  
• Brush
  
• Shaving soap
  
• Blade Sampler
  
• Nick Relief
  
  I know this stuff probably isn't the best (I was only looking at the under $50 section for this stuff), but I wanted to try things out before I spent more money. Are there any big issues with this potential kit?
  
  As for the aftershave, do I have to use it, or can it just be a lotion, like Aveeno? It's what I currently apply after shaving right now.
  
  Also, I noticed some people get bowls and stands. Are they necessary? Can I just use a small glass that I wash now and then instead?

damn.. i see this thinking sweet a cheap easy way to store my 50 bottles for easy display when mixing and the 30 im ordering.. nope -.-
i currently use [link 1] which i got for under $20 and use only use the top 4 levels which holds 49 15ml bottles, 2 30 ml bottles, 2 60ml bottles of vg, a box of 3/4in circle stickers [for labeling for me and coworkers so nothing fancy] and a few spare bottles for decoration with the entire bottom two levels open for pipettes, steeps etc.. im about to upgrade to the [link2] just for kicks so ik it fits more :).. only downside i have for the one im using now is it doesnt hold my 100ml of vg/pg blend which is why vg is in 60ml im a high vg guy so it doesnt bother me. just gota balence it or lay on its side for moving the rack from its storage spot.. i to like to take advantage of the empty space to store attys in the same area lol

[link 1]http://www.amazon.com/Nail-Polish-Table-Display-Bottles/dp/B0052FZ3CI?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=od_aui_detailpages00

[link2]http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0052FZORC?psc=1

[This one holds 10ml bottles really nicely]
(http://www.amazon.com/Leegoal-Transparent-Trapezoid-Cosmetic-Organizer/dp/B00CWZ0BLE/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1458839835&sr=8-3&keywords=lipstick+holder)

[This one is really nice for 30ml bottles]
(http://www.amazon.com/Nail-Polish-Table-Display-Bottles/dp/B0052FZ3CI/ref=sr_1_11_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1458839904&sr=8-11&keywords=nail+polish+holder)

I personally use 2 of each. I use one of each kind for concentrates and mixes

[this one] (http://www.amazon.com/Bottle-Nail-Polish-Wall-Display/dp/B002WVBEH8/ref=sr_1_13_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1458840081&sr=8-13&keywords=nail+polish+rack) might be your best bet if you would rather just make one larger purchase instead of multiple little ones

here it is

I used to use one of these racks.

It was fairly easy to move from one room (storage) to the other (my work desk) when I was ready to paint. Now I'm starting to build a dedicated workbench for painting, and after some consideration, am going with these racks. They probably wouldn't work the best for storage, but are great if you have the dedicated space to paint in one area.

Reaper master Series paint. Most of the base paint color range bought on eBay. https://www.reapermini.com
paint racks are nail polish racks I found on Amazon for like 15 bucks. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0052FZ3CI/ref=mp_s_a_1_14?qid=1452189672&sr=8-14&pi=AC_SX118_SY170_QL70&keywords=nail+polish+rack

And the brushes are Winsor Newton series 7s I got from Blickart. There are a few other brushes too. Some junk brushes and a few reaper master series brushes. The reaper brushes were underwhelming.

THIS!
Thank you for holding this :)
EDIT: If add-ons are not allowed, the alternate

Mom! Mom! Mom! I need this soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo bad! My eyelashes suck and I need them to pop. If my eyes don't pop I won't get a date for the big dance! You'll ruin my entire life if I don't get this!

Pretty please with sugar on top!

Also, life will not be ruined if I don't win, but it might :P

You need to go to the gym read this [article on why you should work out] (http://zenhabits.net/31-ways-to-motivate-yourself-to-exercise/)
or even better this hilarious video on motivation to work out
and if all else fails, [do a home work out] (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bafkFhkMTbM)

okay I want [these amazing lashes with lash glue if possible] (http://www.amazon.com/Pairs-Regular-Thick-Eyelashes-Style/dp/B00538TSMU/ref=pd_sim_bt_1)

I would DEFINITELY get this and for less than $3? What a steal!! :)

I'm queen of attention to details. I have a few things on my list under $5 this set of lashes, this nail care kit, this Great red polish plus I have more items on my other lists as well.

Not entering.

Woo! Eyelashes! http://www.amazon.com/Pairs-Regular-Thick-Eyelashes-Style/dp/B00538TSMU/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=1HDUAZPRVGF3T&coliid=I1NXIVPLKXR6W

I DONNO WAT TO USE AS A PHRASE BUT HAPPY DAMN CAKE DAY! I REALLY WANT FAKE EYELASHES FOR MANY VAIN REASONS

Item on ze wishlist. Definitely foundation, preferably mineral powder because my face is so wishy washy sometimes - never know if I'll need it! Lip balm aaaaaaand make up remover. I don't normally play with my eyes, mascara's fun and all that but it's not a necessity and it's a female canine to remove! Thanks a lot for the tea cup contest! I can't wait till the day I get a job and credit card so I can do my own glamming :)

You should order them in the big multi-packs from Ebay or Amazon, which ship directly from Asian countries like China, so you get ~identical lashes at a huge discount, like $1.50 for 10 pairs with shipping. Pick one that has individual lashes so you can easily layer on mascara, like the set on the right. You can mount them on the edge of a table or something so you can apply the mascara. To reduce another variable in the experimental design, you should use single-use mascara wands to apply the mascara, so you're just seeing the lengthening effects of the mascara formula, and limit the amount of times you go over the lashes with a specific mascara. Then maybe just measure how long the lashes are after application. I wouldn't use real people because there are too many variables.

What if my favorite show is over? :c

Breaking Bad </3

Currently hooked on Boardwalk Empire.

$2.09

Oh, I hate to hear that! These are sooooo light!

These are the ones I got, maybe this will help!

How about my derpy cat?

Item

Cheapest with shipping

This contest is AWESOME

Oppsie sorry here:

http://www.amazon.com/Pairs-Regular-Thick-Eyelashes-Style/dp/B00538TSMU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1375300429&sr=8-1&keywords=eyelashes

I wish for these lashes! I love accentuating my eyes when doing my makeup, and I think these will help a lot :)

FALSIES I want to bat my eyes so much that someone thinks I'm having "visions."

[Lashesssss!] (http://www.amazon.com/Pairs-Regular-Thick-Eyelashes-Style/dp/B00538TSMU/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=2F1VP9Z4PMRVC&coliid=I1L9B1GVFQIW4I) because I'm running out! I leave them places, they get all gunky, and sometimes they just get lost. Thanks for the chance!

Yay for Wishful Wednesday! I've never tried wearing fake eyelashes before and I really want to start (especially since I've been experimenting with smokey eyes). This set looks good and I could get a lot of practice. Thank you!

What makes me beautiful

20 Pairs Regular Long and Thick Eyelashes
http://amzn.com/B00538TSMU

20 pairs for $3? Yes please! I am a competitive dancer and Im starting do a lot of musicals at regional theaters so these would help a lot! Plus they're just fun!

Bought from here. Supposedly quality can be a bit hit-or-miss, but they're all so nice and soft, and they're great for the price!

One good starter set is by Coastal Scents: Coastal Scents 22 Piece Brush Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005UBN5AQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_zWPnxbE9YWPEX

I just bought these Coastal Scents brushes and I love them, I'm a beginner too though so I'm not sure how they compare to others.

Right? I looked up brushes on Amazon after I saw gooorgeous cut crease looks on here. I was like "Whyyyy can't I do that!" then realized I needed brushes. Hahah. I wish I'd known that years ago!

I just ordered these. I'm so excited!

And yeah I wasted two+ years with one guy and I'm so glad I ended that relationship. At least I learned a lot from it.

I think my best advice would honestly be to work on honing your skills. I used to be able to do pretty okay shadows cause I never really learned about blending and pretty much stuck to one colour shadow at a time. But now I live for blending. It honestly makes such a difference. Even with just one shadow, blending out the edges makes it look so much better. I like really fluffy brushes that really blur things dramatically, but it's really up to you. The Real Techniques eye set of 4 brushes is good for "tighter" blending brushes. The fluffy one I love is from a coastal scents 22 piece brush set, they don't sell it individually and it does not have a name printed on, unfortunately.

So yeah, I'd suggest working on skills more than anything. But I will try and answer what you actually asked for haha. My fave palettes are the too faced chocolate bar and naked basics 2. I also love inglot shadows because I like the customization they offer (you buy the shadows in singles and can build your own duos or palettes), and they make really good, blendable mattes. Mattes are notorious for generally being harder to blend than shimmery or glittery colours sort of across most brands, but the inglot matte ones are very good. Naked 3 palette might work really nicely for you as well, but I think the semi-sweet chocolate bar palette would be the best. Nice shadow quality, nice range of shades, but I think they would look especially nice with brown eyes and your skin tone. I would recommend naked basics for the purpose of having a nice set of strong, basic (ha ha) matte shades. But yeah, semi-sweet chocolate bar!

I just bought this set from amazon, and I really like them. I don't own very many high-end brushes, so maybe I don't know what I'm missing, but this set has good variety and they're soft and easy to clean. Also, they cost quite a bit less than your budget and are eligible for super-saver shipping!

I also like the eco tools brushes from the drugstore; they're so soft and nice, and don't cost an arm and a leg :)

Are you looking for a starter kit? It's always more cost effective to buy separate brushes in my opinion but as far as budget friendly starter kits go, I hear many good things about the Coastal Scents 22 piece brush set. While I don't own the set, I hear it's very good for the price.

I use Morphe Brushes and Coastal Scents --> this set, specifically

www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B005UBN5AQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1374445572&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX110_SY190

I'd do a proper link except I'm on my phone :)

There's a coastal scents brush set on amazon for around $30



Found it!
Coastal Scents 22 Piece Brush Set
http://amzn.com/B005UBN5AQ

It's at Wal Mart, Target and on Amazon!

You could get a beauty spatula and scoop some out every time.

Here it is :)

https://www.amazon.com/Every-Drop-Beauty-Spatula/dp/B0069VYSFM/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1511730054&sr=8-1&keywords=makeup+spatula

I don't know about depotting, but you could try one of these little spatulas.

Not so far, it's just a regular squeeze bottle. The top is quite tapered, though, so once I get to the very end, there may be some stuck at the top, but I don't think that's anything that tapping the bottle a little won't fix.

Side note: I really want to invest in one of [these] (http://www.amazon.com/Every-Drop-Beauty-Spatula/dp/B0069VYSFM/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1457055889&sr=8-1&keywords=every+last+drop+spatula) for that type of situation. :)

http://www.amazon.com/Every-Beauty-Drop-Spatula/dp/B0069VYSFM/ref=pd_sim_hpc_1?ie=UTF8&refRID=03G9CNS6E617JZPPVZ07 found! Yesssss!!!!!

I have one of these, its specifically designed to het under the rim.

https://www.amazon.com/Every-Drop-Beauty-Spatula/dp/B0069VYSFM/ref=sr_1_5_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1537742959&sr=8-5&keywords=makeup+spatula

here

Highly recommend this little guy. It's shape, the long handle, it's amazing and I definitely get the most out of my products.

Every Drop Beauty Spatula https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0069VYSFM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_eIjTCbZWRX4VN

They make little tiny spatulas for getting make up out of bottles! They come in quite handy.

I agree about the Sincerely perfume. Way to strong, a bit on the old lady side of scents and way too many scents of this and essences of that.

for my birthday, I would want sleek blush in rose gold

and a wet n wild brow kit and also a NYX butter lippie in sweet tart plus this viva glam Niki Minaj dupe and a blackhead tool total $25.91 ... what, it's my party! I can dream, right?!?

I like looking up the words:

sodial

shipped from hong kong

Zit popper.

Nail gem thingys.

Owl.

$5 funf

$4 vier

$3 drei

$2 zwei

$1 eins


and oh my god is the Hootie so cute! I'm obsessed with owls and LOVE all those patterns!

I got an extractor (one of these dudes ) and now when I feel a pimple and I just get that addictive urge to pop it, I am able to at the very least wait till I get home to use the tool, as it usually works better than my fingers. The tool is easier to keep clean than my hands, and it does less damage to the skin than scraping with your fingers does. Plus I keep my popping down to once a day, in the evenings, so there's less inflammation. Now I've at least minimized my skin picking, and am working on eliminating it entirely. It's a good starting point. :) hope it helps!

$1.22

goodmorning! i hope you're having a wonderful day :D

[edit] 80cents+free shipping.

This thang

Here it is!

$0.88! cuz my face is groooosssss :/

This thing.
It's for popping pimples and blackheads and I must have it!

I am currently watching my boyfriend play with our kitten. Watching a 6 foot 3 inches man play with a kitten is too awesome.

weird things

This is 83 whole cents! Thank you for the contest!

$0.84

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B006Z96OI2/ref=aw_ls_1_3?colid=1XX5RSTNJIF5C&coliid=I6INKJLQSABKU

These have intrigued me forever and i really wanna try it out!

Food for the rest of my life, Spam musubi.

Pet peeve, when people call glitter "sprinkles". I work with glitter and encounter this way too often.

Fear, definitely sharks.

they aren't light-proof, but I ordered these a week ago, and the one I tested works great!

https://www.amazon.com/Airless-Pump-Bottle-Silver-Matte/dp/B00ED5HD08

I bought these ones and I think they work really well. I got mine on Amazon because of prime shipping but you can also find similar or cheaper ones on ebay!

I got these and liked them a lot - http://www.amazon.com/Airless-Pump-Bottle-Silver-Matte/dp/B00ED5HD08

I took my Beauty of Joseon cream with my on a trip in one of these and it worked really well! If you don't put a lot of product in you have to pump a lot to move it to the top, but other than that they're perfect.

Sounds like the design or your specific bottle may be defective. I have these from Amazon that I use for a bunch of different products and I really like them and haven't had any issues with them being defective. Airless Pump Bottle Silver Matte - 1 oz (6 Pack) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ED5HD08/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_4uY5ia2JmhOEV

These look quite elegant, but I'm not sure if they're glass and they're pretty small.

A lot of Asian beauty products have really nice looking packaging.

I use these.

I use an airless pump bottle which keeps oxygen/contamination out and keep it in a cabinet out of the light. It lasts for 3-4 weeks no problem! Part of the lid came off of one bottle which means the cap doesn't close securely, but other than that they've served their function. I sanitize between refills with rubbing alcohol.

Link: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00ED5HD08/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1420076474&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SY200_QL40&dpPl=1&dpID=2161ffHx4IL&ref=plSrch

I had these recommended by a couple friends and finally ordered. They are great. https://www.amazon.com/BS-MALL-Synthetic-Cosmetics-Foundation-Blending/dp/B00I3VHKVK

Sorry for the delay in replying! So I got the brushes from this link: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00I3VHKVK/ and this link: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01EWBYUDU/ for a great variety of basic eye and face brushes. Paid about 16 bucks total, and that should still be the price! The bristles on the first set are so dense that I needed a separate dusting brush for brushing off loose powder/finishing my foundation beat, and luckily i already had one. If you don't, this one looks excellent: https://smile.amazon.com/EcoTools-Sustainable-Materials-Synthetic-Packaging/dp/B001KYVLSU/

As far as wigs are concerned, I look at wigs marketed to both white women and women of color, since they both have different, excellent attributes. If you want something silky and smooth that you can style yoursef, do a search for K'ryssma wigs and pay attention to the reviews! I got this one: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XJ3BGJC/, and it was gorgeous. Needed some work on the hairline (I plucked out some of the hair from the lace so the hairline looked more natural). K'ryssma wigs are machine made and come in a wide range of styles. The one I got had a LOT of hair, which was great! I was looking for a base wig to stack on and style myself, so the straight/slightly wavy style was perfect for me.

Many of the wigs for black women's hair have phenomenal texture (like straightened kinky hair) which gives them great body and fullness. Not as much movement, but not everyone needs that! The one I got for myself was the NEESHA wig (tons of YouTube reviews! this one is very popular) at this link:https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01B3GZTBO/. Haven't tried to stye it yet, and the lace is quite stiff/hard but this wig has a TON of hair.

BEFORE YOU BUY A WIG decide if you are going to try to style it yourself or if you need one that's mostly good right out of the box. That way you can avoid ending up with a wig you can't use without buying a ton of other styling products. Check out onlinekyne on YouTube--he has a ton of styling and baby queen tutorials, and isn't so experienced that his stuff is intimidating to watch. I also watch Mr. Villberg's wig transformation tutorials for ideas.

That's all I have time for now, but I will try to get back to you later today with more info! Best of luck, and let me know if you have any other questions!

I know you said cost isn't a factor, so it might seem silly to link a $12 set of brushes, but I ordered these a few weeks ago because if they ended up sucking I was only out a whole $12 and I actually really love them. They're really soft, they wash well, and overall I've just been really pleased with them. Well, the face brushes more so than the eye brushes. The face brushes were why I ordered this set and I only use 1 or 2 of the eye brushes. The eye brushes aren't bad, I just have plenty of other eye brushes.

http://www.amazon.com/BS-MALL-Synthetic-Cosmetics-Foundation-Blending/dp/B00I3VHKVK

I use the flat face brush from this collection which is just a kind of stiffer brush I believe. I tend to swirl on top of the shifter and then tap off a lot of the excess when applying blush/highlighter/bronzer (including 2-3 taps on the sink edge) to get a light layer. Granted, the only indie blush/bronzer/highlighters I have are Shiro loose powders which also come with a sifter that I do not remove.

I just purchased this set - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00I3VHKVK/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1.

I've only had them for a few days, but I like all of them so far. They are thick so they blend well. My only complaint so far is that the brushes for the eyes are just a tad big for my eyelid, but I have small eyes.

I have this set of BS-Mall brushes and I swear the flat top brush is the softest brush and leaves no streaks when I apply foundation with it.

This looks very similar to a brush set I got on Amazon. I have found the brushes great for applying foundation and eyeshadow, not as great for blending. I've had them for over a year and they've held up really well to repeated cleanings - no loss of bristles, still look brand new.

I bought these and they are very nice! Very soft. The only thing that Bothers me is that they are kind of similar to one another. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00I3VHKVK/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1413503666&sr=8-2&pi=SX200_QL40

i use these, specifically the first and fourth ones. i especially enjoy the first one. the angle is perfect for my face and i’ve had these brushes for 5 ish years and they’re still going strong! the brushes also have a good density, not too dense, but not too fluffy, which is perfect for my foundation application! i know it comes in a set and that’s inconvenient, so i’ll try to look for some single brushes that have a similar shape.

I use these brushes with Achiote, I'm like nc15-20 and I have to layer it still but the end result is great. Obviously you shouldn't have to buy new brushes just for one product, but I find dense kabuki-like brushes work very well for Tarte blushes!

I received these brushes for Christmas as they had good reviews and it remember they were well loved on here as well. They so have quite a strong chemical smell however -- any tips on getting rid of this smell? So I need to wash them all? It's so strong that my entire car trunk reeks after them being in them for a car ride home. :)

• Foundation: My hands... (the shame)
  
• Powder: Ecotools kabuki brush
  
• Bronzer/Contour: The brush that comes with Benefit blush boxes.
  
• Blush: Ailunce Rounded Dome Kabuki brush, fourth large brush from the left in this photo. Side note, these brushes are super soft, I like them a lot. The eye brushes are a little large for my eye unfortunately.
  
• Brows: Small black angled brush from elf gel eyeliners and nameless spoolie.
  
• Eyeshadow: Ecotools flat shader, crease brush, highlighter brush, pencil brush, smudger, etc.
  
• Lips: Ecotools retractable lip brush

Thanks! I'm a big fan of the well-reviewed Amazon sets like this one. I like Coastal Scents' synthetic brushes. Real Techniques' whole line is fantastic. Sephora Collection does a really good job. On the cheaper side, I haven't had any problems with my ecoTools brushes after over a year. Also, around Christmas walgreens always releases a brush set from their Studio 35 beauty line. It's a six piece set, five brushes and a pouch. It's usually pink or orange, and those bristles are HEAVENLY SOFT. They're made of baby angel hair or something, and the set is like $10-$15.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00I3VHKVK/ref=mp_s_a_1_sc_1?qid=1450500276&sr=8-1-spell&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70&keywords=bbsmall


Go for it! What's to lose?! It's life changing lol. The link I sent you is AMAZING. I've never tried "high end" brushes but bought these and they are honestly amazing. They're so soft & are definitely well made!

Also, I'm really excited to try these brushes from the same list:

Eye/face brushes: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00I3VHKVK?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=ox_sc_act_title_2&smid=A26XQ45ZJKZ7YW

Eye brushes: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0105NO4N0?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=ox_sc_act_title_3&smid=A26XQ45ZJKZ7YW

I recently got brushes these off amazon after reading tons of reviews and they’re great it’s a smaller set but you do have some essential eye brushes in there, they blend shadows like a dream also great price point. However if you’re looking for a bigger set BH is good for that

I ordered these: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000TCD51A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1.

If you read the reviews and questions these are popular with vapors. Non bleached, not from a area with radiation. They work very well as wicks for me

https://www.amazon .com/ORGANIC-Cotton-Makeup-Puff-Medium/dp/B000TCD51A

https://www.amazon .com/Graham-Professional-Cellucotton-Beauty-Rayon/dp/B00PBGJT5A

These are what I personally use. As for RDAs, I’ve used the recurve, bonza and the hadaly clone I own and a few other non note worthy ones. The recurve and the hadaly (Clone) are absolutely killer for flavor, however I have heard if you’re going to be swiomking that you should use the entheon with the hadeon cap instead of the hadaly as it’s better for squonking. You can easily get a cheap sxk entheon clone and buy an authentic hadeon cap for an experience. Or if you want an authentic RDA the recurve is absolutely killer. I’ve also heard amazing things about the Drop RDA

I buy Labo Organic Cotton from Amazon. If you go down the list until you find the one that's Prime eligible, it ships straight out of an Amazon warehouse in Canada. You can have it delivered in a couple of days.

http://www.amazon.de/gp/product/B000TCD51A

Actually, it was only 6,89€. Oh yeah and that package is huge, this will last for years even if you rewick every single day, wasn't expecting that. And it really is so much better than the standard cotton I had been vaping before. Not a single dry hit on my Kayfun so far, even though I was really struggling with it before.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000TCD51A/ref=s9_mbia_gw_d77_g121_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=mobile-1&pf_rd_r=02JBZ5B4NZMM2126Z2CK&pf_rd_t=36701&pf_rd_p=1824978342&pf_rd_i=mobile

Koh Gen Do, Muji and Puff are all pretty much the same.

If you choose amazon, make sure the order is "fulfilled by amazon".
Take a look and scroll down
You will pay a tad more but you will get it much sooner.

Also you can get unbleached Muji Cotton directly via Muji

id suggest cotton....
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000TCD51A

i have the same tweezers, mkws wire, i4 charger, thrum scissors (they work ok.. but u dont ever want to bend em out of shape or it wont cut well anymore....

a little warning on the flush cutters.... use safety glasses... i saw pictures of someones that broke while cutting and metal flew into their eye... i have no experience with them tho... i use nail clippers for my wire cutting

If you are from montreal you have Vaptronic on Joliette (not far from the metro station) that has the tobeco clones :)

If you are not from around here, talk to them I am sure they figure out a way to send it to you.

Also, if you need wire, they sell Lightning vapes wire at very affordable prices :D as for cotton, they cotton bacon and also some regular cotton pads. If you can wait, I highly suggest you to get this from amazon.

I bought this. It's great.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000TCD51A/ref=yo_ii_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I'll never run out.

Don't take any of the shitty offers these people are giving you, look on amazon, I think the pack I saw was 200 sheets for about 6 bucks
Edit: found it
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000TCD51A/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1427499437&sr=8-1&keywords=japanese+cotton&dpPl=1&dpID=41Y1EJZVyxL&ref=plSrch&pi=AC_SY200_QL40

If you're rebuilding, you can go about a month on a single coil if you like it. Just replace the cotton. Basically, you build a coil (wrap a piece of kanthal around a tiny screwdriver, screw in the leads, then twist a piece of organic cotton at one end, slide it through. It's MUCH cheaper. 100ft of kanthal is $5-8, and you can buy enough cotton to last you quite a while here: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000TCD51A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Watch this to see how to build and wick a coil for the subtank: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T8rO6PoMgU4

Fulfilled by Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000TCD51A?ie=UTF8&at=&force-full-site=1&ref_=aw_bottom_links

Aspire Nautilus BVC lover here.

Kayfun Lite 2019. No juice flow fuckery. Adjustable air flow. Great flavor. Easy to build. Low price high quality clones available.

Buy yourself a spool of 28 gauge kanthal and some Japanese organic cotton pads. These will last at least a year.

Temco wire and Cotton Labo Puff japanese cotton makeup pads. It seems like you pay a premium for buying stuff that's marketed to vapers, rather than just buying the same stuff that's not.

1. ) Right here
   
   
2. ) [Here] (http://www.amazon.com/Genuine-Lightning-Vapes-Ceramic-Tweezers/dp/B00KAEWG76)
   
   
3. ) You have to buy wire and make your own coils, or buy pre-made coils. RDAs don't have coil heads like clearomizers. You'll have to do some research and decide what you want to try.
   
   
4. ) You're dripping, not using a tank. It's very unlikely that you want to go above 4.5mg/ml.
   
   
5. ) You may not be too satisfied with the Doge3 then - everything I've read said that's a "cloud chaser" design, more concerned with delivering vapor than flavor and throat hit.

More noticeable in a better or worse than regular cotton way? I got this brand off Amazon and I've seen many posts saying it's one of the good ones to use. I didn't boil it like I did with the balls, might that be the problem?

This is the stuff I have coming.

https://www.lightningvapes.com/products/kanthal-a1-resistance-wire?variant=1822764164

COTTON LABO Organic Cotton Large Puff, 0.23 Pound https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000TCEXOS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_QJUyzbM6Q2YNN

$10

Should I go for the large or medium?

I've been using the cotton Labo for ages, it's cheap, it's organic Japanese cotton, and I can't tell the difference between this and all that fancy cotton. https://www.amazon.com/COTTON-Organic-Cotton-Large-Pound/dp/B000TCEXOS/ref=sr_1_2_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1503790097&sr=1-2&keywords=ORGANIC+Cotton+Puff+l

I've tried Rayon (didn't like the taste), Cotton Bacon tasted funny to me, so did "Cotton Candy". Native Wicks was good, but I could tell little difference between that and the cheap stuff.

Only thing I wouldn't want to use again was the ultra cheap organic cotton balls. They don't wick well enough for my purposes.

As much as I like Amazon, I'd say from what I've seen, there are entirely too many clones. It's probably safe to not shop for authentic atomizers and mods. Get your Japanese cotton from them though! Cotton Labo ORGANIC Cotton Puff Size L (120pc) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000TCEXOS/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_fKAAwb64H8FPA

A velocity clone is probably the best place to start, really easy to build on with the two post design.

Wire depends on what you're looking for really, maybe get some premade coils of the more complex stuff such as claptons as well if it's you're new to making your own coils.

For cotton these will last you a lifetime and a half: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B000TCEXOS/ref=sr_ph?ie=UTF8&qid=1452739283&sr=1&keywords=organic+cotton

Good luck!

Buy this now, so you'll have it [Cotton for Vaping]
(http://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-Puff-120pc/dp/B000TCEXOS/ref=pd_sim_194_5?ie=UTF8&dpID=51DvHMs7TEL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR123%2C160_&refRID=0X3ZZPYFPTC6KV3Z6K3S)

As /u/rakeleer said, use steam-engine.org to figure out how many wraps and what diameter will get you to a target resistance.

As far as wire thickness goes, in simple terms, the thicker the wire (lower the gauge), the more wraps it will take to hit a target resistance. E.g., to build a 1.0ohm coil at 2.5mm diameter, 28ga kanthal will take 5-6 wraps, while 26ga kanthal will take 9 (# of wraps may not be correct -- just going from memory, but you get the idea).

For cotton I use the following: http://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Labo-ORGANIC-Puff-120pc/dp/B000TCEXOS/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1426525137&sr=8-3&keywords=japanese+cotton
It's an add on item, but you'll get free shipping if you add it to any qualifying order (just needs to be sold by amazon) of at least $25. There are also other options on amazon that are not add on, but they're a bit more expensive. You can also purchase kanthal on amazon as well, with free prime shipping if you have that.

Picked mine up from Amazon pretty cheap link

I used to use that but got a little paranoid because it's bleached. I ended up buying some unbleached organic labo puffs. It's cheaper and the same as Koh Gen Do.

Here is the mobile version of your link

(Cotton) https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000TCEXOS?pc_redir=T1 $5-$6 should last you year(s).

Cotton Bacon is great, but this stuff is even better, and you about 10x as much for the same price. (Also available here if you don't want to get it as an add-on at Amazon.)

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B000TCEXOS/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A61YNJRM0QV05

I got these a while ago, should last a lifetime. Free shipping from Japan, took me about 2 weeks to get here.

I use this. No boiling just wick it up and vape away.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000TCEXOS/ref=mp_s_a_1_fkmr1_2?qid=1452986580&sr=8-2-fkmr1&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70&keywords=Puff+japanese+organic+unbleached+cotton

I have bough Muji and Selena, Muji has a worse flavour than regular organic cotton, Selena is better, maybe on par, I'm not sure if I'm remembering the organic cotton with rose coloured glasses
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00260T94K/ref=pe_385040_30332190_TE_dp_1
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EWLBAAW/ref=pe_385040_30332190_TE_dp_3

I like the Selena Multi-layer Cotton Puffs for when I'm making a lotion mask. They're soft and easily peel into 5 different layers.

I've been using mine for several months now. I seriously drench my face with it because of the large amount and affordability LOL. I find that it is great for layering and providing refreshing hydration, but not much else. My skin has been improving lately (less breakouts and inflammation, more even tone), but I'm not sure I can 100% attribute it to Hatomugi. It's mainly hydrating and a little bit calming, if anything. I'm able to use it when my skin is more sensitive as well.

I use Selena Hagaseru Cotton, that are apparently very popular. It has 80 puffs that can peel to 5 sheets each, so 400 total omg. Soft cotton, appropriate size, holds good amount of liquid for masking. I think these are good for the cost, but it tends to fray a bit around the edges during use and tickles my face. I like the nooni toner mask sheets, it's literally like the sheet mask material cut into squares. But these are only 60 pieces total, so it's more on the pricey side.

I WAS a skin twin and it was a pain. in. the. ass. I got something like this out of nowhere and came to find out that it was overexfoliation/dehydrated skin/using products that weren’t for my skin.

I went on a round of accurate and literally just don’t do it. A vitamin a topical is way better than putting a pill in your body that dries your whole body out.

Anything oil based for both cleansing or using as a moisturizer is literally TRASH for my skin. It hates oil. And forget squalane oil, it has a comedogenic rating of one, and I’m guessing you’re combo skin like me so that’s a def no.

Here’s what you need to do:

Cut back on exfoliating to 1-2x a week. And focus on hydration mostly, your moisture barrier is extremely stripped. A damaged moisture barrier makes acne and closed comedones worse.



Here’s what worked for me through extreme trial and error.

AM:

**Thoughly cleanse hands with soap and water (it’s important to remember this step. We do so much more than we can remember with our hands every day)

•Cleanse with clarity rx vitamin infused cleanser (daily)

•Wipe with Cocokind Rosewater toner (hydrating)

•Eminence clear skin probiotic mask (when I have time) gently wipe off and stream face with microfiber or baby towel (3 rounds of each)

•Cocokind Rosewater Toner (hydrating) (spritz)

•Cetaphil’s moisturizing cream (pat in) OR Clarity Rx “Call me in the morning” (either are great options)

•Elta MD Broad Spectrum 46 Clear sunscreen


PM:

**Thoroughly cleanse hands with soap and water

•Derma E vitamin c micellar water on organic cotton pads

•Cleanse- Clarity rx vitamin infused cleanser (daily)
•Cleanse- Clarity rx cleanse as needed 10% Glycolic cleanser (ONLY 1-2x a week at night for exfoliation)

•Wipe with Cocokind Rosewater toner OR Josh Rosenbrook hydrating accelerator toner with organic cotton pads or Renée Rouleau toning cloths

Spritz and dampen/wet skin with Cocokind Rosewater

•Hada Labo Gokujun Hyaluronic Lotion Moist (lotion mask 3-5 mins withmulti-layered cotton puffs ...pat in remaining lotion

•Lavish Serum by Jolicoeur (it’s a ‘vitamin a’ and 24k gold serum) ....any ‘vitamin a’ serum/treatment like differing or tretinoin work to help manage excess sebum production and deplete congestion.

•Cetaphil moisturizing cream (cover skin and pat in)

•Acure spot treatment (when needed)

•Thin layer of Vaseline (occlusive)



I know you feel so down on yourself but you just need to stay positive and stay hydrating your skin. There is always a solution and you will come to see that it is something that can be fixed!



Other things that could possibly help contribute to your problem:


•Hylauronic acid vitamin to accelerate your skin’s hydration process

•Cut out eggs!! I found out through my naturopath that I actually had a slight allergy to eggs which increased my androgen/testosterone levels and helped assist the excess sebum. Cutting eggs out has shown improvement in my skin.

•Go to a naturopath and have levels checked. They can do blood test, allergy tests, hormone tests, etc. Could be an imbalance internally)

•Proper SLEEP...8 hours. Try to buy a silk pillowcase. I did and it’s life changing.

•Switch to vegan hair care products

•STAY AWAY FROM COCONUT DERIVED PRODUCTS. This was a huge culprit for me.

•Don’t touch your face.

•Don’t pick!! and try to stay away from glaring at yourself in mirrors lol

•Buy a shower filter (what kind of water do you have?)

•Also try drinking a glass of celery juice every morning if you can afford it. It’s so beneficial for your body and skin.

•Stay hydrated with water, tea, water, water, and more water.

• Try to cut out coffee if you can, it’s extremely dehydrating


As always YMMV, sorry for the novel response, but feel free to ask any questions you may have! I hope I helped!


EDIT: One pointer I want to point out is that there is a proper way to use the Hada Labo Gokujun Hyaluronic Lotion Moist, and a lot of people don’t know how. Lotion masks really are the only/best way to use the product. The product needs to be in full contact with the dermis layer. Soak a cotton puff (link above^) with the product, peel apart layers, and place them on your face for 3-5 minutes. Remove and pat excess product into skin. Continue with the rest of your skincare routine.

these are not too much cheaper right now but sometimes the price comes down. They are great for separating into layers without the fluffs getting all over your face when doing toner masks.

I bought these based on a rec from this sub and really like them:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00260T94K/ref=ya_aw_od_pi?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This basic wall rack is good for anyone with under 100 polishes. Assuming she's okay with having them out in the open. Though I hung mine in my walk in closet so it's on display but No one ever sees it.

Happy Zambambo!

Thank you for the contest, and happy birthday! :]

http://www.amazon.com/Bottles-Nail-Polish-Wall-Rack/dp/B002WVBEH8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1371604768&sr=8-1&keywords=Nail+polish+racks.

There ya go!

Nail polish rack, that's what I started with when I moved my nail polish from the rack to a new case. Something like THIS

I would like to see what yours can do,especially if you are in the states. I think the hz stufg is overpriced for what you get and I'm not ashamed to pay for quality.

The one thing I think this market needs is a large wall hanging pot holder, I've resorted to the nail Polish holders like this.

96 Bottle Nail Polish Wall Rack Display https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002WVBEH8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_yYJkzbNQA6SRN

An beauty influencer I follow on instagram uses something similar to this to organize and display her collection of sunnies!

https://www.amazon.com/Bottle-Nail-Polish-Wall-Display/dp/B002WVBEH8

Not OP but my stolution has been an acrylic nail poslish organizer such as this. The only problem with it is that products taller than a normal size lipstick only fit on the top rack. I have a lot of lip products that are bigger (like liquid lipsticks, etc.).

SHOTS

so i would go with this
http://www.amazon.com/Acrylic-Showcase-Jewelry-12-19/dp/B0084J970I/ref=sr_sp-btf_title_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1368497831&sr=8-7&keywords=acrylic+case


or
http://www.amazon.com/Bottles-Nail-Polish-Wall-Rack/dp/B002WVBEH8/ref=sr_sp-btf_title_9_134?ie=UTF8&qid=1368497958&sr=8-134&keywords=acrylic+case

I bought this from Amazon. It works perfect for me. Here is a pic of it on my wall loaded up. Note that I just put the larger bottles on top as they won't fit in small channels. The rows hold up to 30 ml bottles. Great solution for me.

Thanks! I got it from amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002WVBEH8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002WVBEH8/ref=oh_details_o08_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

You don't absolutely need to have brushes, they just greatly help over your finger. Try either a small set like this Ecotools one, which you can find at most Walgreens/Walmart/Kmart/etc. Alternatively, elf has many $1 and $3 eyeshadow brushes, some of which are excellent.

From elf, I would recommend the eyeshadow, blending, crease, and smudge (smudge brush not sponge!) brushes of their $1 Essential line, and the eyeshadow "C", small angled, contour, angled contour and flawless concealer brushes of their $3 Studio line.

Second, the main thing that you're going to need to do to make eyeshadow (applies to all makeup really) is:

• practice
  
• learn what color schemes you like mixed together
  
• watch youtube videos
  
• browse on here and its imgur site
  
• pay attention to what other people are doing if you like what they've done
  
• find out if you like certain eyeshadows applied wet or dry
  
• invest in a cheap primer that works for you. This will help your eyeshadow adhere to your lid much better.
  
• if you use brushes, make sure they're clean first
  
  Learn how much pressure you need to use to build color: start lightly at first, you can always add more. The "c" shaped eyeshadow brushes are great for patting color on. You want to use the blending/contouring ones in a windshield-wiping motion to blend across things like your crease or blend out a color line, so that it doesn't look harsh.
  
  It will all look very weird and harsh on you at first. That because you're not used to seeing yourself with that appearance. I know it's a lot to start with, but these are things that I wish I had known to ask in retrospect. I hope this helped, rather than overwhelmed you. Good luck and have fun playing around with it!

This eye brush set is an add-on item from my "Misc under $10" WL. Patrick Kane is our hero!

#1
Because I will need refreshments while studying

[#2] (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0030HMQTS/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=EPS3TS5HDN6C&coliid=I1RU8CYY4TTINL)
Because I need to look good while studying

[#3] (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B006R9JXZG/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=QE8F4372V12A&coliid=I278R7PDI8I7XK&psc=1)
Because I will wave these magic wands and conjure up a new hat

[#4] (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003ZDNZYM/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=T2W93XK4UYF3&coliid=IUYVA44S5HNZL)
Because I think this may be one of the textbooks

[#5] (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004GBLK5I/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=1IW6H9DRTQ7C7&coliid=IR6NCVAZL9G7U)
Because it's always good to prepared for emergencies, especially when studying magic

[Bonus] (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B002FZ147G/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=3MTF6KZZSOOJR&coliid=I1F3K42FC1LC46&psc=1)
Because I need my dog to chill out so I can study

Here's a couple good options for palettes: http://www.amazon.com/theBalm-Balm-Jovi-Rockstar-Palette/dp/B0096OBH4Y/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1416330457&sr=8-3&keywords=makeup+rockstar

http://www.amazon.com/theBalm-NUDE-tude-Eyeshadow-Palette/dp/B00OSNMWJW/ref=pd_sbs_bt_1?ie=UTF8&refRID=0N2YFE65FM6P51GASP2F

and brushes- the ELF aren't so bad, some are better than others, but I really like ecotools. Real Techniques are also good but will cost you a little more.

http://www.amazon.com/EcoTools-Piece-Essential-Eye-Brush/dp/B0030HMQTS/ref=sr_1_1?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1416330506&sr=1-1&keywords=ecotools

http://www.amazon.com/Real-Techniques-RLT-1406-real-Starter/dp/B004TSFE28/ref=sr_1_22?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1416330506&sr=1-22&keywords=ecotools

I have the rockstar palette and love it.

is this right?

http://www.amazon.com/EcoTools-Piece-Essential-Eye-Brush/dp/B0030HMQTS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1377044561&sr=8-1&keywords=ecotools+brush+set

I would avoid buying any off-brand brushes, especially from eBay. You never know what you're getting.

My top recommendations for beginner brush sets are either the ELF Studio set (this was what I started with and it served me well), the Real Techniques Core Collection plus Starter Set, or the Ecotools Eye Set plus Mineral Set.

If you ever need to buy more, try getting these EcoTools brushes (Amazon link). Each one is about 4.5 inches long (closer to 4 inches if you don't include the bristles). I bought some at Target a while ago and I love them, they're fantastic.

When I was in grad school I was super poor, like grad students tend to be. My supervisor came to work with this little pup she found wandering around the the road. He was so sweet, smiling and wagging his tail for us. We spent the day trying to find a home or a rescue organization for him while he hung out in the office with us. He seemed healthy, house trained, we thought maybe he might have a home already, but couldn't find any information. At the end of the day after we had no luck finding a home I told her I would take him home for the night. Well, needless to say, after that night, he found his home, with me. I took him to a rescue organization that offered discount vet care. The doctors there agreed he seemed pretty healthy other than some ear mites and potential mange because he seemed to be itching a lot, and ran some blood work and we played outside while the results came in. Much to our dismay...heartworms :( I've known this dog less than 24 hours and started tearing up. He's such a good dog! So sweet, so loving. We decided to start treatment. Because it was a rescue orgainization they would do it for half price, but would have to cut corners. I had to bring him in to get the shots and then take him home for observation instead of leaving him at the hospital. I forget the details of his treatment, but I remember it was a series of shots into his spine. They were terribly painful and he got really sick during the treatment. Every time I would carry him out of the clinic, take him into work, and he would lay under the desk all day, barely moving. About the time he would feel better it was time for another shot. The doctor kept warning me that there's always a potential of severe negative consequences to the treatment. After the last shot, though, he started getting stronger and stronger. Pretty soon he was back to his old self with a TON more energy. Ultimately, he had too much energy for me to keep him with my grad school schedule, it just wasn't fair. So I begged my Dad to take him in. My dad lives on about 60 acres of fresh air and sunshine. He begrudgingly said he would take my dog, but on the circumstance that I would take him back as soon as humanly possible. He "didn't need another dog." Ok, Dad, ya ya, he's a great dog, you'll love him. So I take Brink (dog's name) on the 10-hour road trip to my Dad's. I tell him he loves to stay outside, but maybe just at night Brink could come in and sleep. My dad gave me the side eye and told me not to push my luck, but thankfully, I'm daddy's little girl. So soon I heard through the grape-vine that Brink was allowed in anytime he wanted, but only into the mud room where he had a fine bed and bowl set up for him. Well, one night, about 10pm my Dad was in his easy chair in the den, and here comes Brink, bed in tow. Brink laid his bed down by my Dad's chair and laid down and went to sleep. That was about 5 years ago and that's where Brink's bed still is. My dad secretly fell in love that night and they have been inseparable ever since. We joke he's the most expensive stray ever, and to be honest, my rent was late the month I paid for his heart-worm treatment, but it's the best money I ever spent. I love that freakin' dog and I think he found his perfect forever home at my Dad's place :)

My FAVORITE vegan food is this Ethiopian vegetarian sampler with Gomen, rice, lentils, all my favorites from a local restaurant called Desta.

Eco Tools Brush Set

Thanks for the contest, you're super awesome! Sorry my story is so long :) hugarabbitday

Glam me please! :)

[This is my item] (http://www.amazon.com/EcoTools-Piece-Essential-Eye-Brush/dp/B0030HMQTS/ref=sr_1_20?ie=UTF8&qid=1374630690&sr=8-20&keywords=real+techniques)

Thank you so much. This is really considerate of you. :)

hopscotch! Well, my boyfriend likes to make funny faces. so here are two pics of us being silly together. I'd really like these brushes. I don't have good quality brushes at all, and since I just got some nice new eyeshadow it would be great to have nice brushes to use on it. :)

Rainbow

I think you should go for a darker Auburn color, I think it would look great with your skin. As for haircuts, I really like the androgynous look of Lena Dunham's haircut.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0030HMQTS/ref=ox_sc_act_title_3?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
is this what you use?
thanks for your advice!

Ashy blonde with bangs! Rainbow
Edit: these brushes

My wine goblet will be secure from others' hands with this Pyramidhead charm on the stem to make clear I'm the rightful owner!

I'll need a broom to go along with my regular makeup brushes so I can maintain my glamour even when transformed into a gigantic dragon.

After the terrible accident in Potions class that erm...altered my appearance a little, I'll need a hat to disguise myself.

A must read tome from one of our greatest wizards.

Hopefully, all the junk in my trunk will fit in my school banquet attire

This caped-crusader costume is so my animal accomplice, Potato, can look the part.

I would use these real techniques brushes to apply and blend eyeshadows with. They are recommended by a lot of people. The first one on the left is used for blending and the 2nd one with the rounded edge is to apply eyeshadow.

Happy birthday to you!!! I hope you have a good day!

If it was my birthday, I would love to have more brushes, like this set of RT Starter Set because at the moment I have about three brushes for eyeshadow, and I want to practice doing my eyeshadow with different brushes! And this NYX eyebrow cake powder so that I can practice doing my black eyebrows! I bought an ELF brow kit in medium which is definitely not my color, because I have black hair :( It's my party!

Happy (almost) Birthday!
If it was my birthday I would like to receive Real Techniques Brushes and Baby Lips: Cherry Me.
It's my party!

Stalk her makeup collection to see what she already has, so you don't buy doubles.

If you want to go for fancy presentation, I think you should get a few types of product, like brushes, some lip things, and some eye things.

Real techniques brushes are great, and you can get them in stores or on Amazon; here's a couple [sets] (http://www.amazon.com/real-Techniques-Core-Collection-Set/dp/B004TSFBNK/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1397668617&sr=8-3&keywords=real+techniques+brushes).

The Sleek palettes are well thought of and cheap, and I don't think she'd object to getting this.

Lipstick is based a lot on skin tone, so if you want to get anything like that you should try to figure out what her undertones are. Before you panic, an easy way to guess is if she wears

gold
yellows/oranges
warm, autumnal colors

She's probably got warm undertones. You can also take a peek at her foundation to see if it has anything on there like "warm" or "neutral" or "cool" - then you can maybe take a look at the lipstick labels and compare. If a red says "true red" it's may have some blue undertones.

Ideally, you'll be able to ask a sales rep somewhere, and maybe you can bring pictures taken in natural lighting for them to get a good idea.

If you don't want to do all that, a nice assortment of tinted lipbalms (people here seem to like the baby lips ones, and they're at basically all drugstores/makeup sections in stores that have makeup sections)

And you can't go wrong with a good primer. Go to Sephora or something and pick up one of the travel size Smashbox photo-finish face primers (the travel size is a better deal, ounce per ounce) and add a few things of chocolate for good measure.