Showing posts with label Beauty Products. Show all posts

January Beauty Haul


I was finally in need of a good beauty haul from ULTA last month to repurchase some of my favorite basics and try a couple new items recommended by friends and my esthetician.

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Repurchases:

I received a sample size of the Better Than Sex Mascara almost a year ago and it's just about to be done so I decided to get the full size since it's one of my favorite mascaras. I do still love the less expensive Maybelline Falsies Mascara for everyday wear so I mainly use the Better Than Sex Mascara for nighttime wear or special events such as weddings.

This is my third tube of Tarte Amazonian Foundation because I love the full coverage it provides and the variety of skin tones it caters for. I reviewed this foundation in greater detail here but if you're looking for full coverage, this foundation is on point.

I bought this same EcoTools Bamboo Brush Set about 5 years ago and although I cleaned my brushes often, I decided it was definitely time for a new set. I use the bronzer brush on a daily basis and the price tag is very affordable for such amazing quality brushes.

The Clarisonic Radiance Brush Heads are a self explanatory purchase but I did decide to go with the 'radiance' brush heads instead of the 'normal' this time around to see how they differ. I don't notice a huge difference but they are both soft and gentle on the skin which is ideal.

I used to buy expensive toners until I found the SO Totally Clean Facial Toner. The smell isn't harsh and it works just as effectively as the expensive toners except with a $5.99 price tag at Ulta.

NYX Butter Lip Glosses are a repeat purchase times a million. When you find the perfect texture lip gloss (not sticky) that comes in a variety of pretty colors and is 1/4 the price of expensive cosmetics it warrants a repeat purchase for life.

New:

The Murad Facial Moisturizer was recommended to me by my esthetician recently when I went for a facial. I expressed to her that my combination skin often results in a slightly shiny forehead later in the day yet the lower half of my face seems to be on the dry side. She recommended the Murad moisturizer because of it's matte finish for oily skin and I've noticed a remarkable difference.  

Essie Gel-Setter Nail Polish - The set includes a colored nail polish + a gel-setter top coat and no lamp is needed to set the polish. I chose the color Watermelon which is very pretty in person and I thought it would be perfect for Spring and Summer. Admittedly I haven't used this set yet because my nails are currently the shortest they've ever been so I'm working on growing them out before prettying them up.



Well, that was a mouth full of a post. If you made it this far, thanks for reading my reviews and feel free to share any of your favorite beauty products that are a must try!

Friday Faves


This was the first cold weekend in Florida and it was nice to bring out the boots and scarves however I don't have many warm pants other than jeans. Recommendations? I'm looking forward to another fairly quiet weekend with lots of R&R which sounds like perfection. I'm finally back on track with the work/blogging/personal life balance after the crazy holidays which is definitely good for the soul. So how about some faves for this week...

Favorite Article:
Ashley from The Grits Blog talks about her Blogging Pet Peeves and I couldn't agree with her more, especially #1.


Favorite Purchase:
This dainty silver leaf bangle bracelet from Express goes so well with my watch and has gotten lots of compliments.


Favorite Recipe:
This Healthy Kung Pao Chicken with brown rice recipe looks so good. I'm a big fan of stir-fry recipes and love trying different combinations of meat and veggies.


Favorite Holiday Gifts:
I didn't post much around the Christmas long weekend but two of my favorite gifts were both from K and I'm in love!

#1: Marc Jacobs 'Decadence' Perfume
Smells amazing! Definitely my favorite new perfume on the shelves.



#2: Revlon One Step Hair Dryer and Styler 
This is seriously a life-changer for me. My hair is very thick so it takes a long time to wash and dry which has always been a dreaded "chore" of mine. This brush/hair dryer combo has cut that time down significantly and I absolutely love hoow it styles my hair. I give it a 9 out of 10 because it could have more heat settings but otherwise it works wonders.

Favorite Funny:
Me everyday.


Have a great weekend lovelies!

Joining Amanda for Friday Faves.

Beauty Products Worth Trying

I'm always trying new products especially as a blogger who reads lots of reviews and gets tempted to try that new face wash or mascara. Some products are a staple that I've been using for over ten years while others come and go depending if it works for me or not. Here are some products that are in my current rotation.
1.  L'Oreal's Go 360 Clean, Deep Exfoliating Scrub: I love this face scrub and have been using it for about two years. The gentle beads work really well to fully clean your face without damaging your skin. Although I really like how it works, I was open to trying something new so I purchased Garnier's Clean + Balancing Daily Exfoliator which I think works equally well to gently wash and exfoliate your face at the end of the day to remove makeup and oil/dirt.

2. Cetaphil's Gentle Cleansing Bar has been in my rotation for over 10 years and I like to use it in the morning to wash my face before applying moisturizer and makeup to start the day. I know some people might be apprehensive because it is a bar of soap but it actually works really great to moisturize and balance out my combination skin. It doesn't dry out your skin like regular soap would do.

3. d.j.v. MIARAY Fiberwig Mascara: I just purchased this mascara a few weeks ago based on Sarah's recommendation and I think it works really well as a daytime mascara although I think it's equivalent to some more affordable drugstore brands such as Maybelline's Falsies. It doesn't cake up and gives a nice natural look which is great but it's not ideal for creating dramatic eyelashes for going out at night or to weddings etc.

4. The Body Shop's Camomile Gentle Eye Makeup Remover: I've posted about this eye makeup remover before and it's been in my rotation for probably 15 years. I hate oil-based makeup removers that create a mess and leave your face feeling greasy. This one is the opposite to that. It's gentle as the name states and removes makeup quickly and leaves no residue. I've never found anything better so there's no need to try anything new.

5. Nyx Butter Gloss: I love this lip gloss and have it in 4 different colors. I'm not a fan of sticky glosses and this one is the perfect texture which provides shine while also moisturizing your lips. I've also repurchased the Eclair color a few times. It also helps that the price point is very affordable at only $5.


6.  Joico Color Endure Shampoo and Conditioner: This shampoo and conditioner was recommended to me by Kerri and I really like the smell and how it works for color treated hair (the red bottles are specifically for blondes to prevent brassiness). It's still fairly new to me but so far I'm really liking how it works and leaves my hair feeling silky, smelling good and is helping my brassiness go away.

7. Yes To Grapefruit Rejuvenating Facial Wipes: I've probably tried every brand of facial wipes and never found a favorite.  They've all been mediocre but I love the smell of the Grapefruit Yes To wipes and how it works to clean your face without leaving any residue. So far these wipes are probably my favorite.



8. Garnier Skin Renew Anti-Sun Damage Daily Moisturizer: I purchased this moisturizer a few months ago based on Kay's recommendation. I had been using an Oil of Olay face moisturizer for almost 10 years and was ready to try something new. Immediately I preferred the smell and consistency of the Garnier moisturizer compared to Oil of Olay. The lotion is thicker so I feel it provides better coverage while also being very moisturizing and providing daily SPF.


What are some of your favorite hair/skin/beauty products that have been in your rotation?


Sally Hansen Airbursh Perfect Legs


Out of the blue, I received a package from Influenster with a sample of Sally Hansen's Airbrush Legs lotion (pictured on the right). I already had the Airbrush Legs Spray-On (on the left) so I'm familiar with the product. I was excited to test out the lotion because the spray-on stuff I bought was a little too dark for my complexion and it dries very quickly so it's not easy to rub in to tone down the color.


The light color that Influenster sent is much better suited for my skin complexion (how did they know?) and looks really natural on my legs. My goal for this summer was to work on my tan but the past few weeks of rain has seriously put a damper on any outdoor plans so my legs still fall in the fairly pale category. After applying the lotion though, they have a nice sun-kissed complexion which I really like.


I much prefer the lotion to the spray-on Airbrush Legs because it's easy to rub in and spreads evenly for a more natural look. I feel like the spray is a little messier to apply but it also doesn't help that I purchased the wrong color. What I like about both products is that they're water resistant so it doesn't run or make a mess if you happen to encounter humid weather or sweat in the summer heat. 


I've worn the lotion out and about a few times and it lasted all day so I will purchase the lotion when the small tube runs out and probably give away the spray-on can to a friend with slightly darker skin (Kate, you want it?). Oh and yes that is an old faded tattoo on my ankle from college days, if you were wondering. It desperately needs to get a touch-up.

Have you used any of Sally Hansen's Airbrush Legs products before? What did you think?


The sample size Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs lotion was given to me complimentary from Influenster to test and review. The review above is my own honest opinion.
 

Meet Amanda from Jamberry Nails + Giveaway

Amanda is an independent consultant from Jamberry who I've been working with to get fun nail wrap designs for different occasions. I recently posted my sparkly and festive nails for 4th of July weekend. I love that there are so many colors and designs to choose from and they aren't damaging to your nails. Plus they take only a few minutes to apply instead of going to a nail salon which can take 45 minutes or more. I wanted to introduce Amanda and Jamberry products on my blog for anyone unfamiliar with it or looking for new ways to spunk up their nails.

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Hi, my name is Amanda. I was born and raised in the Maryland area about a stones throw from Washington, DC. My husband, our three kids, and I have lived in the Orlando area for over five years. I do miss the cold sometimes, but don't miss snow storms! I love Jesus, spending time with my family, reading, watching TV and movies, Washington Redskins Football, and watching other sports as well. 



What are Jamberry nails wraps? 

Jamberry Nail Wraps are an alternative to polish and expensive salon visits! They are high quality, vinyl, heat and pressure sealed nail wrap that last for up to two weeks on your fingernails and up to four weeks on your toes! They are made in America, vegan friendly, gluten free, and non toxic with no dry time or chipping. They can be used on artificial nails and will not harm natural nails either. They're even safe for the little ones fingers and toes as well. They come in over 300 designs to fit the style and taste of everyone!


What made you decide to become a Jamberry Independent Consultant?

I was first introduced to Jamberry by a close friend from high school. I really loved how gorgeous all of the designs were, but I wasn't sure it would work for me because I had short brittle nails from years of nail biting. Plus, nothing ever lasted on my nails except acrylic or gel, so I didn't think these nail stickers would either. I was hooked when they stayed on for 8 days with no issues! Everyday I am constantly washing my hands, changing diapers, cleaning, doing laundry, and I am really rough on my nails. I was really impressed with them and decided to join for the 30% discount. A year later I have a wonderful team of 17 ladies I work beside and I love it.

What do you love the most about selling Jamberry nail wraps?

The thing I love the most about selling Jamberry, is that I don't sell it. I share it. I share the opportunity and a great product with people daily. I also love the opportunity Jamberry gives to help empower women to run their own businesses and dream big. I love showing people an affordable option that is stylish and practical. I also love that I don't have to have any inventory and that they can be ordered directly from the website and shipped right to your home from the warehouse in Utah.

Interested in learning more about the opportunity and joining my Jam Family? Click here.

How are Jamberry nail wraps applied?

The application method is pretty simple! That is one thing I am thankful for because I typically squeeze my application in once a week when I am catching up on TV shows I have recorded. You can watch our application video here or watch it and see the graphic below!






Also two IMPORTANT tips:

- Never touch the adhesive part of the wrap with your fingers or skin. You risk getting oils on the adhesive which can interfere with the ability of the wrap to bond with your nail.

- Always err on the side of using a smaller wrap. We like to say embrace the small gap. A good fit typically has a small gap and no one will notice anyway because it's on the side of your nails. This ensures it doesn't touch your skin or cuticles.



Are Jamberry nail wraps waterproof?

This is a definite yes! When they are applied correctly Jamberries are water proof. I have Jamsisters in Hawaii who live in the ocean and they get the same amount of wear as I do as a Mom who cleans and does dishes without gloves!



How long will the nail wrap application last?

An application should last up to two weeks on fingers and four weeks on toes when properly applied. I am not the best at waiting the full two weeks because I like change, so I normally change them out each week. The best part is even when you're ready to change them, they still look great!



What are some of your favorite nail wrap designs?

This is a hard question because I have so many! I love the Autism Awareness wraps because my son and daughter both have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Plus, Jamberry gives $2 of every Autism Awareness Wrap sold, back to the Autism Society of America. I am typically a big fan of mixing and and matching different designs and colors, but I still love classic and neutral looks as well!
 How do you remove Jamberry nail wraps?

I have two favorite removal methods! One is using our Lacquer Remover and there is a video here. It's so easy and normally go to method because it leaves my nails smooth and clean afterwards. My second favorite is the Gentle Removal Method pictured below. It's easy as well and healthy for your nails.

 

Are Jamberry nail wraps kid-friendly?

They are very kid-friendly. They have designs called Jamberry Juniors that are perfect for little fingers and toes. Because Jamberries are non toxic you don't have to worry about exposing your little one to any harmful chemicals.




Where can you buy Jamberry nail wraps?

Jamberry is only available through the Jamberry website itself, so you can order them here.

Thank you so much for having me, Emily! I really appreciate the love! You can enter the giveaway below!
 a Rafflecopter giveaway


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Thanks Amanda! I really enjoyed learning more about Jamberry nails and I LOVE the Mermaid Tails nail wrap design! Those are definitely going to be my next purchase!

You can also find Amanda on Facebook and Instagram.


Urban Decay Naked Smoky Giveaway

Happy Sunday everyone!

Just a final reminder that there's only 11 hours left to enter our Naked Smoky palette giveaway for one lucky winner!


This palette contains: 
- 12 Naked Smoky Eye shadows in High (champagne shimmer micro-glitter), Dirtysweet (medium bronze), Radar (metallic taupe iridescent micro-glitter), Armor (metallic silver-taupe tonal sparkle), Slanted (light metallic gray), Dagger (medium charcoal micro-shimmer), Black Market (jet-black satin), Smolder (deep plum-taupe), Password (cool taupe matte), Whiskey (rich brown matte), Combust (soft pink-taupe), Thirteen (light beige satin) - Double-ended brush - Lookbook 

Jambery Nail Wraps: Festive Nails




I was so excited to try out Jamberry nail wraps for 4th of July weekend this year and I picked out a festive and patriotic design called Ka Boom.  I was nervous about the application process because I tend to have shaky hands and always mess up nail polish when attempting to apply with my left hand. That wasn't the case with these nail wraps and they applied very easily even with my slightly shaky hands. 



After speaking with Amanda who is a Jamberry Nail Consultant, I found out a few additional benefits of using Jamberry wraps including the fact that they're non-toxic, very cost effective compared to going to a nail salon, and come in so many beautiful designs for any type of occasion. 

 The package came with my Ka-Boom design nails wraps in 9 different sizes (18 total wraps however I can get two uses out of one wrap since my nails are fairly short), a manicure set (nail file, buffer, clippers, etc.), two alcohol wipes, a mini heater, and a top coat nail polish along with a cute Jamberry pouch to store everything in one place.



Jamberry provides several videos that I recommend watching before getting started such as this video with application instructions along with reading the process overview below. It literally takes seconds to apply each wrap so it's not a time-consuming or frustrating process by any means.


I love how my nails turned out and it was so fun wearing this design for the 4th of July while on a trip to Vegas. I'm so happy I have enough wraps left to re-wear this design and I'll be sure to order additional designs for future weddings, vacations, parties etc. 



Some other designs that I want to try in the future now that I have the full set up with mini-heater and manicure set. 


 

Check out Amanda's Jam berry online store to browse all of their design or you can also follow along and Facebook and Twitter.

Influenster Refresh VoxBox


I've been a member of Influenster for a while now and get VoxBoxes here and there to test and review if the products strike an interest with me. The #RefreshVoxBox didn't disappoint and included a variety of nutrition, beauty and personal care items; all of which I would use in my daily routine. 

Nutrition Snacks


Beanitos Chips: I wasn't familiar with Beanitos chips before receiving these two samples but I really enjoyed both - Restaurant Style & Nacho Cheese. They are full of fiber and protein and also gluten-free so that's good news for those that avoid gluten. I'll definitely purchase them again cause I think they are one of the better tasting chips out there minus the greasiness of some brands I won't mention.

 

Skinnygirl Nutrition bar (5 for $5 at Target): I love Skinnygirl products including their cocktails but haven't had a chance to try their Nutrition bars so I was excited to see a bar was included in the #RefreshVoxBox. I got the Banana & Oatmeal Dark Chocolate bar which was very tasty and the perfect on-the-go snack. I'm not a huge fan of banana flavored stuff so I will try another type when I purchase.



Beauty Products


Covergirl UltraSmooth Foundation & Applicator: This is the product I was most excited to receive because I recently noticed it on the shelves at the drugstore. Ultrasmooth contains Olay serum and is meant to provide medium coverage for a more natural look. The flat, rubbery applicator is not like any others I've tried but it does it's job and blends well. I plan on continuing to use this product because, luckily they sent me the correct tint for my skin tone.



Montagne Jeunesse Face Masque: I've tried a couple Montagne Jeunesse face products in the past and was never impressed enough to re-purchase but I did enjoy the experience with this face mask. You apply after washing/cleansing your face, let dry for 15-20 minutes and then peel. I loved the smell and how my face felt after so I think this is one of their better products for the face.

L'Occitane Shea Butter Comforting Cream: I've never heard of this brand but the cream is formulated with 5% shea butter and made for normal to oily skin.  I really liked how it made my face feel after I applied to a clean face after showering at night. I'm going to keep this in my skincare regimen as a night cream (and I'm pretty picky with my facial products). 



Dental Care



Listerine Pocketpaks: I've never been a huge fan of Listerine mouthwashes. I use gentler mouthwashes but the pocketpacks aren't a bad gig to keep in your purse to freshen your breathe on the go. I like these!

DenTek Floss Picks: I've used floss picks before but always resort back to traditonal dental floss. I really liked these ones though. They were effortless to use, easy on my gums and give off a minty flavor. I'm excited I have 30 count pack for many more uses.

I don't have kids so I'll be giving away the DenTek Fun Flossers to a friend for her to test out with her kids but I'm sure they work just as effectively as the adult flossers. 

I received these products free from Influenster to test and review. 

Have you tried any of the above brands?

Urban Decay Goodies


I was so excited to find out I won Kate's Urban Decay giveaway, and the grand prize winner to boot! This never happens and the bulldog card was a sweet surprise.


With two Caribbean weddings coming up early this year and me being pasty white, I was super stoked to find the prize came with two bottles of UD's Santa Tanita self tanner. It's already been put to use twice and works well as a gradual tanner.


The only product I've used in the bunch is UD's Eyeshadow Primer Potion so I'm can't wait to try the rest of these goodies:

~ Midnight Cowboy eye shadow
~ Urban Defense tinted moisturizer
~ De-slick mattifying gel
~ After Glow cheek tint
~ Urban Glow cream highlighter 
~ Glide on eye pencil
~ Honey-infused lip therapy lip gloss


Other than the eyeshadow primers, which are known to be some of the best in the market, I'm most excited to try out the Midnight Cowboy eyeshadow and the Honey-infused lip gloss.

What's your favorite Urban Decay makeup products?