Final Thoughts: Glittersniffer Cosmetics

I recently announced I would no longer support, endorse, or use Glittersniffer Cosmetics. Now that I have had enough time to let emotions die down, I feel that I can talk about it here with a fresh and and unclouded perspective. I wanted to be truthful about my reasons for leaving, as well as provide information This might be long, so please bear with me
DISCLAIMER: ALL OF THE FOLLOWING IS MY PERSONAL OPINION. TAKE THIS INFORMATION AS YOU SEE FIT, AND PLEASE MAKE YOUR OWN DECISIONS.

When I became an admin on the Glittersniffer Private group page on Facebook, I felt awesome. For the first time, I was a part of something. I have had issues fitting in since I was little, so this was a new experience to me. I followed orders, from Lela, about deleting and blocking users who were on the Glittersniffer Complaints page. I also removed any and all negative posts on the private page as well, and monitoring the main fan page for negativity to tell Lela about so it could be removed. It felt wrong, but my mind, I saw it as the role I was to play in order to stay apart of this group.

Not too long into my admin duties did I start to hear the rumors, from the other admins. They spoke of her lack of proper work sanitation procedures, such as, not washing her hands after smoking or eating. Another matter brought into question was her working environment. For example, her cat being aloud to walk in and out of her work area. I am deathly allergic to cats so the idea of fur in my cosmetics is not a settling thought.

An accusation was also made that Lela has an addiction to a substance called Kratom. Though it is legal in small doses, Lela made references to using it multiple times a day, in high doses. This was also witnessed by another admin that had gone to stay with her for roughly a week back in February. Though this is a more personal aspect of her and not the company, it made me stop to think what it was I was trying to be a part of? Was this type of person, someone I should be so worried of getting approval from. I was wanted to be a part of something, but not something like this.

These rumors have proved true with photos, eye witnesses, and even from Lela herself. I find myself now concerned for Lela Warren. She is only human, and I do not wish to harm her. I can only hope she will seek the help she needs to become a better business owner, but also a better person.

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Now, before I left GS, I helped Lela create the Video game collection. After waiting  a month for my package, since I was promised a full collection because it was my idea originally, I contacted Lela and she was happy to send me one. I would like to share with you what I had received.

How it was packaged inside a regular manila envelope.

Inside the bag

The package pulled out of the pac-man bag. I already knew I was up for disappointment when I saw the broken soap.

The other side. The "Yoshi" green pigment was spilled everywhere.

The set of pigments as I received them. This is unaltered. I pulled this for the bag as is.

The perfume. The listing stated it was in a twist up tube, but was actually sent to me in a 5g Pot. Still cute though

It looks as though it was in a tube at one point, and just plopped into the pot.

The Mountain Dew Soap. Broken in 4 pieces, and was not wrapped. Everything was covered in a soap residue because of it not being wrapped.

The "full" vials of cosmetic glitter. In different vials, and barely full.

The Bath bomb. There was red glitter, and rock salt on the top. Some of which was scraped off as I pulled it from the package.

Side view of the bath bomb. It was cracked, had these white chunks everywhere, and was very inconsistent.

This is all I received. I was very disappointed. The soap was very thin, so it broke in transit. If it had been packaged and wrapped as most companies do with their soap I believe that it would have arrived in one piece. The pigments were everywhere. Most of the green was dumped out because there was no sifter stickers on any sifters, and the stacker wasn't sealed in anyway. Scotch tape would have been enough in my mind to prevent this. The perfume not being in the twist up tube doesn't bug me as much as you can tell it was at some point.  The glitter vials were no where near full, not even half full. 

I really do hope that maybe this was just my package, not everyone's. It is also my hope that Glittersniffer does turn over a new leaf and corrects its mistakes of the past as they promised. Sadly though, as you can see above, it doesn't appear that it has happened yet. Personally, I will not purchase for GS ever again. After was I saw with the Video Game collection, my heart broke because that was something I helped create, and it was no where near what it could have been.

I hope this has been informative to whoever reads this. I sincerely hope that possibly, Lela Warren will read this and see what has happened and know that I wish her the best. I used to be devoted to GS, I used to be an admin, and I loved it. Then it went south, I left, but I still feel like things can improve. For her current customers, I hope things improve and you enjoy what you get from GS.

If you received the Video Game collection, comment below and tell me, was mine just like this, or was yours broken/open/spilled when you received it? I want to know if I just got unlucky.

An update finally! (it's a little long)

Alright Ladies, Sorry that I have been gone for a little while now. I've had some issues in my life (some are still going on) and I did not want to pass my case of the sads onto y'all. But, I have considered some things, and will be changing the misson of this blog a bit.


I want to inform the world of my beauty knowledge, inside and outside beauty. I want to inform everyone of the indie companies to love, and the ones to steer away from. I want to share stories of my life with people, cause sometimes, I have some AWESOME ones. I want to have contests, and give out freebies to share cool stuff with you all. Sometimes, I just need to vent, so sometimes, you will see non-makeup related things. We all have stresses, we all have wants and needs and desires. I want to share things with people. I want to make this blog into not only an informative Beauty blog, but make it a little personal as well. I hope you all accept that.

On to the Beauty Portion of the night! Woohoo!

I have fallen in and out of love with A LOT of companies lately. So let me make a list with some reason:

Glittersniffer Cosmetics
I feel betrayed by Glittersniffer because they made PROMISES to their customers, and never delivered. They have HARRASSED and attracted A RADIO STATION to cover the issue at hand. Their products HURT more than one PERSON, but claim none of it is founded. To find out more about the issues with Glittersniffer, see The GS Complaints blog in order to read more about the on going investigation into GS's business practices, the refunds they've promised, and the hope that they will improve.


Madd Style Cosmetics
Madd has not done anything that is too terrible. If you are looking for an all vegan company though, please be careful with Madd. It was discovered that come of their PRODUCTS were listed as vegan even though they contained Carmine.

Orglamix Cosmetics
Orglamix seems to be just slapping stickers on their PRODUCTS and calling them their OWN. There is more information HERE and HERE.

Ruthless Cosmetics
Ruthless is selling non eye safe colors as eye-safe. When this was brought forward originally as a buyer beware, they responded with some not friendly RESPONSES. Then they came back to fight with ANOTHER girl about the original blog that posted the buyer beware. A little unfair I think Considering it was just a warning to be careful where you use the products. Check HERE for further information and reviews.


Now, not all companies are bad. Indie companies are amazing, and I love them with all my heart.  There is Virus Insanity Eyeshadows which is amazing with their service, super friendly, and their shadows go on like a dream. There is Candy's Sweet Treats (link on the side bar) which I love, and their names make me giggle. And many, many more. I love those two, have tried them, and highly respect them as companies (reviews coming soon too! I promise!)

Also as a buyer beware- Morgana Cryptoria has recalled some of their lipstick shades due to misinformation from their supplier. Check it out if you own any so you can get an exchange/refund!

Lots of love, and comment below with your thoughts and feelings <3

A Quick Update

I am doing a short update for one reason. To discuss why I have pulled my support for Glittersniffer Cosmetics.

Since I left the fanpage, and stepped down as an admin there I have gotten tons of private messages asking why. I do not have the time to outline in detail my reasons, keep it level headed and manage to remain respectful at this time, so if you would like to know my reasons, PM me on Facebook or Email me. I intend to outline my reasons for leaveing in a future blog (along with some info on other companies to take a look at) but I need to calm down for now. Emotions are running high for me concerning what happened and until I can write a blog about it without compromising the integrity of this blog, I just won't do it. Feel free to contact me privately if you want to know immediately or if you have any questions, I would be happy to answer them.

Thanks ladies, and I hope I don't lose your support over my decision to pull away from Glittersniffer.

Recalls and Chemicals to look out for

So we all make mistakes right? Yes we do. Even companies make mistakes because they are still run by human beings that make mistakes. So when a recall happens, you hope that your product is safe, or that you can get a proper replacement in a timely manner.

The FDA posts recalls on their website when they are issued for the most part, but what are their regulations? Click right here to view the FDAs policy for cosmetics and their recalls.Unless you are looking for recall information though, how would you know that there is a recall on your product? Take a look at this Avon Recall for a set of their eye shadows for merely mislabeling the containers, and possible color mix ups. This was a letter posted to their site, and sent to all representatives to pass along to their customers. They made a huge effort to make in known. For this Makeup Remover Recall the product was possible contaminated with an organism that causes eye infections, respiratory infections, dermatitis, and other health issues. The information was readily available to anyone looking for it. Even Glittersniffer Cosmetics had a recall, and they posted the information on their website, and their fan page on facebook (originally, it is no longer listed there from what I can see) to let their fan base no about what colors were not eye safe. Sure, maybe all of these recalls haven't reached every customer that purchased or received the item itself, but at least they are trying to get the word out. Sometimes it's hard to reach one time customers, or friends of customers that got the product for a birthday/Christmas/anniversary gift. The moral of this story is, to check online for recalls periodically, especially if you have some type of a reaction to a product. (cosmetic or otherwise)


Now, in today's world, everyone is at least a little concerned about where their product came from and what it's made of. I know that now, I read more labels and ingredient lists then I ever thought I would. Now, some people don't have the time to go hunting all over the internet for information on if their product is safe. I found a website called Natural Skin Authority which has a chemical list of common things used in cosmetics, hair products, and skin care products that you should watch out for. Now, not all of these are a "never use" thing like I have read. Some just have to be diluted a certain amount before they are safe for use. So it's more like proceed with caution. Try testing the product before using it as intended. If it's some type of serum, or eye product, putting it behind your knee or in the crook of your elbow is best because the skin is thin there and the closest to the skin round your eyes. Everything else, just test on the inside of your arm, use it as directed and see if you have any reaction before applying else where. I mean, a funny patch on your arm is easy to cover if you have a reaction than your entire face, right?

Below I am listing a few common things that I found in products I use at home. No, this doesn't mean I will stop using all of them, but I will be researching them more, seeing about if tests were done on them and such. I want to make sure that before I suggest something to you ladies that I know my stuff on it, and have used it. So heres my list of things to be careful of using.

BHT- Commonly used in gases, oils, waxes, rubbers paints and plastics. Purified forms may be in some foods. It irritates your skin and eyes, can cause breathing issues if inhaled, if you are pregnant can cause hard to the developing fetus, damage your liver, and cause dizziness.

Iodine- Commonly used in pain/wound treatments, facial cleansers, and body firming lotions. It can be absorbed through the skin or be a danger if inhaled, is not recommended for any type of use around the eyes, and can cause an allergy that will make even low exposure to it cause itching and other symptoms. This can also be used in moderation and diluted.

Niacin- Commonly used in shampoo, conditioner, styling gel or lotion, hair-loss treatments, lip gloss, moisturizer, lip balm/treatments, hormonal creams, nail treatments, facial cleansers and makeup remover.This is a type of Vitamin B, and is good for your body, but in controlled amounts (I take it daily) but it has a risk of being toxic to your cardiovascular tissue and your blood. It's one that you need to take in small doses and needs to be diluted with other things before being used.

Red 6 Barium Lake dye - Commonly used in lip gloss, lipstick, blush, and nail polish. It is just suspected of having skin and sense organ toxicity. Further studies of it will reveal more about it.


I've only listed 4 out of the many I found because I want to know make you work a little. Take a look at the site, grab your favorite bath product, or cleanser, and look up those ingredients. If you find one not listed here and you want to play my little game, comment below with the info you find. (maybe I'll make a little game out of it and award a prize.)

Also, I list BHT because it was mentioned in a discussion about what cosmetics are safe on a page on facebook, and did some research myself. In what I have read, it should NEVER be used in cosmetics.

(NOTE: Any of the recalls or information listed above are for your information entirely. I do not support, endorse, or encourage you to use any of the products or companies I have listed. I'm just delivering information and examples of my findings <3)

Make-up On the Cheap!

I am a makeup fiend. I am obsessed. I have a dedicated set of drawers for all my makeup stuff. Yeah... I'm a little nuts. So here are some CHEAP make up products that I love. As always, if you have any to ad to this list, comment below with a link! <3

NYX Jumbo Eyeshadow Pencil- Was: $4  Now: $2.70
I love these pencils. I use them as a base for all my pigments because they work well, they are cheap, and they have a variety of colors you can use to enhance your look.

Yes they are a pencil, yes you do have to sharpen them, but they are worth it. I only have Milk, Cottage Cheese, and Black Bean so far, but I intend to get a full set. If you are doing a pink and red look for Valentines Day for example, you could use a pink and a red NYX pencil as a base for your pigments, and they help intensify the color. Just want to let your piggies show their natural look? Use Milk or Cottage Cheese. (The are pictured above. The White and the silvery color) They are a perfect base, and you don't need much. I put a nice solid dot at the center of my eyelid, and then spread it around the area I intend to place pigment on. Works like a charm every time. Check out redMascara for the $2.70 deal, and give it a shot. It's totally worth it!


CoverGirl Lash Blast Luxe- Normally- $7
I do not have a definite price on this for you because, I highly suggest going to your local Walmart/Target and picking it up. There are an array of colors, but I use the black.

This stuff goes on like a dream for me, comes off easy with makeup remover, or just soap and water. And it seems to last forever. I use this more than any other product, and it's lasted forever it seems. I usually only have to do one coat and I am good. But, keep this in mind. Mascara is not a "one size fits all". Mascara looks different on everyone, so you kinda need to try a few before finding your favorite. Don't try different brands of the same type. Try volumizing, try waterproof,  try lengthening.. Try all types before making a decision, It took me FOREVER to find and fall in love with this one. Don't lose hope... your mascara soul mate is out there!



Avon Glimmersticks Eyeliner Pencil- Was: $7/Now: $0.90
These are amazing. Tons of colors, easy to put on, and no need to sharpen! I've used these since I started using makeup, and if I ever stop using them, I always come back to them because I know that they work.

I found this deal at Scents for Senses. I am going to have to stock up on payday because that is a crazy good deal! If you have ever wanted to try Avon eyeliners, this is a deal to use to try them with. I really suggest them though because they are easy to use, no hassle, and no mess. That website does not contain all of the Avon line of products though. To see their full line of products, please check out my parents Avon site for current products, and more colors for this eyeliner. (This specific one is on sale for $2.99 on my parents site, so still a good deal ^-^)


Now, I would normally put up eyeshadows and pigments to complete this, but that is hard to do. Each seller has their own deal and sales. Like Glittersniffer Cosmetics is offering a 10 for $15 sale, which is a screaming good deal since her pigments are usually $6.50 (You save about $50!!!). Avon has their 8 and 12 shade pallets on sale for almost 50% off, you save between $6 and $8. Madd Style Cosmetics has 5 for $20, so you essentially get 5 pigments for the price of 4. There is also Candy's Sweet Treats (candyssweettreats) On etsy that offers 5g pots of Pigments for $4.50 as their regular price!! That's just freaking amazing in my book. All of them and impressive and amazing, and it's really based on preference for what you buy.

So ladies, I need some help. Comment below with products you'd like to see me find at a discounted rate for you! My next post about the shopping will include your suggestions! <3

A New Year

Welcome to 2011 everyone! Lets start off the year right, with some new ideas. I believe in introducing yourself, so here I am. My name is Markie Rustad, and I am your Beauty Cheapskate guide. I am a known fanatic of noticing, and preventing fashion mishaps with my friends, and a lover of make-up and general beauty supplies. But, How do you know what's good, and whats not? Things vary on opinion, and I figured, why not put my opinion out there because when you are online shopping, who are you going to ask? If I can help even one person save a few bucks by shopping for something elsewhere, it'll make me happy. Also, if you want an opinion on something specific, let me know and I will look into it, or test it myself. So let's get this started off right. Some of my current faves!

#1: Glittersniffer Cosmetics

These pigments are my new addiction. There has been some drama as of late around the company, but I still support them whole-heartedly and will reccommend them to anyone that asks. They are bright, last all day, and are full of glitter!! (which happens to be one of my favorite things.) Look in my links area for a link to their website. Once they are reopened for business feel free to order and give them a shot yourself.


 #2: Suave Professionals Almond and Shea Butter Shampoo and Conditioner      

This stuff is amazing, and cheap! I buy mine at the local Walmart for roughly $2.50 a bottle and it lasts me a month or 2.  It smells great, feels great on and in your hair, and really helps with correcting damaged hair. I had a terrible dye/perm job a few months ago, and started using this, it fixed my hair and prevented further damage. Love it so much.

#3: Ecotools Eye brush kit

I just bought this on a christmas day sale, and recieved it the other day. The brushes are soft, and sturdy. I've used them, washed them, and have yet to have any of the hairs fall out. On top of that, they are eco friendly, made out of bamboo, recycled aluminum, 100% cruelty free taklon bristles, and comes with a nifty cotten and hemp carrying case.Oh, and did I mention they were only $7.00!


Those are my top 3 favs for the time being. I will be trying to post everyday with a tip, trick, or shockingly good deal I've found.  If you have any requests for reviews, or suggestions, feel free to comment below and I will look into whatever you have!