AmorePacific Moisture Bound Refreshing Hydra-Gel [Review]

I got a sample of this from Sephora and I finally tried it out.  I have to honest, I don't have much experience with "gel-based" lotions.  I guess I always reach for something creamier when I am browsing the shelves.  Nonetheless, it was fun to try something different.

Pros - soaked in well, left my skin feeling moisturized but it did not feel like I was wearing anything afterwards.

Cons - Expensive (around $100 for 1.7 oz., depending on where you buy it from) and not easy to acquire (have to go to Sephora, buy online, etc.).  I also didn't feel much of a moisturizing difference compared to any other moisturized I am currently using.  I think the pricepoint is a big deterrent from keeping me from ever going out and buying this. 

Overall, if you just have to have something expensive, then this would be your pick.  But honestly, I would much rather buy something more affordable with which I would get more for my money.  I definitely think there are other facial moisturizers that do a much better job, that are more readily available to the consumer and that don't gauge the paycheck so bad.

AmorePacific Natural Protection SPF 30/PA+++ [Review]

I got a sample of this from Sephora and I finally got around to trying it out.  I really wish this sunscreen wasn't so expensive, it was a dream to wear!

Pros - soaked in quickly, lightweight, non-greasy, doesn't leave a white cast to the face, did not make me break out.

Cons - expensive (approx. $65 depending on where you buy it), only available at certain places (Sephora, online, etc.)

Biore Dual Fusion Moisturizer + SPF 30 {Review}

As you might know by now, I am always on the search for a great sunscreen to use on my face everyday.

I tried Biore Dual Fusion Moisturizer last month and overall, I really liked it.  The lotion sank into my skin with ease, it didn't leave a white cast to my face and my skin didn't break out from it.  I like the idea of the benefits of a dual lotion and sunscreen dispenser:

By keeping the moisturizer separate from sunscreen, the unique Dual Fusion^® Moisturizer dispenser preserves the power of each formula. That means maximum effectiveness and protection for you.

The sunscreen has a powerful zinc oxide base and yet isn't heavy and white like traditional zinc oxide. The product feels light on your skin as it offers superb UVA and UVB protection.

• Botanamide^® Technology
• Non-comedogenic (won't clog pores)
• Dermatologist tested
• Hypo-allergenic
• 100% PABA free

Pros - affordable, absorbed easily into the skin, moisturizing, high amount of SPF, did not have a real strong scent, does not leave a white cast to the skin, the dual pump of moisturizer and sunscreen worked well.  Sometimes I feel like sunscreens sit on top of my skin but I didn't experience that with this one. 

Cons - I wish it came in a larger container, I feel like I ran out of it quickly.

Overall, I think this would be a great moisturizer with sunscreen to use during the Winter months.  I think that the moisturizer half worked well and I am glad to see such a high SPF in this lotion, I have found that it is a bit difficult to find a face lotion with an SPF higher than 15.  I like the idea of a higher SPF for use on the face.

Smashbox Limitless Eye Liner {Onyx} [swatch & review]

According to Sephora:

This waterproof, long-wearing eye pencil provides bold color that won't smudge or budge for up to eight hours. The creamy, easy-to-apply formula contains Vitamin E and Jojoba Oil to moisturize and protect. The cap houses a unique built-in sharpener—so you'll always have the most precise application.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens

Smashbox Limitless Eye Liner in Onyx

I think that I've found it.  This is the BEST eyeliner that I have ever tried.  It is incredibly long lasting, stays put and smudges in just the right way.  I have been wearing eyeliner for years and even when I am partially happy, I am always turned off about something when it comes to an eyeliner.  A lot of the time, it is too smudgy and doesn't stay where I want it to or it isn't as dark as I want it to be.  However, I keep reaching for this Smashbox eyeliner because it has yet to dissapoint me.

Pros - long lasting, rich color payoff, creamy and smudgable but stays put after setting, easy to apply (I don't have to tug on my skin), stays on waterline nicely, a pencil will last you a long time.

Cons - expensive (approx. $19), might be hard to find if you don't have a Sephora or an Ulta near you (order online!), only five shades to choose from.

Disclaimer: I received this eyeliner as a gift.

Crystal Castles - Year of Silence

I am so obsessed with this song right now, I think it's fantastic!  When I hear it, I want to dance and create.

Thanks for Christopher Kroll for telling me about this song.  <3

What is your favorite song right now?

iVi Scents Soap and Soft Drop Bath Candies {Review}

I ordered from iVi Scents after I read about them on Kandee Johnson's blog.  I figured they sounded like a great product to try out.  So, I ordered myself three soaps (Birthday Cake, Ozone and Milk & Honey) and a bath bomb (Pillow Fight).  My order arrived very quickly and was packaged well. 

iVi Scents products contain NO sulfates, parabens, mineral oils, triclosan, GMOs or phthalates AND they are a Cruelty Free company!  I think that when a company is able to offer products that are free of harsh chemicals, cruelty free and have something that truly competes with what a person is able to find in a mainstream store - that is a great thing and a company that I would personally love to support.

Pros - soap comes wrapped in adorable zebra print tissue paper, moisturizing, lathers well, soap seems to last a long time (like it won't need to be replenished for awhile), smells accurate, wonderful and delicious (all the soaps do, the scent emanates from the packages and smells lovely)!  The Birthday Cake soap is such a treat!  Honestly, I think a huge appeal of the soap is that the experience of using it, it makes you feel so good!

Cons - only available online, more expensive than a commercial brand soap (but if the soap lasts longer, you are not replacing it as often).

I would love to see even more scents available.  I am impressed with the speed that my order arrived, how wonderful the soaps smell and how I feel once I get out the shower after using them.  I think that iVi Scents is a wonderful company to support and I think the products, at lease the ones that I have tried, live up to what they say that they do.

As for the Soft Drop Bath Candies, I ordered Pillow Fight.  For a bath bomb, I think it was just OK.  It turned the water a murky, cloudy color and it wasn't as scented as I like bath bombs to be.  I think the formula needs to be improved upon.  It smelt good in the package but it didn't translate to the bath water.

These products, especially the soap, would be great to treat yourself with or to buy for giving to someone else.  I think that they would be great for people with sensitive skin and for people that are trying to limit the number of chemicals that they expose themselves to.

COUPON CODE:  Because I appreciate all of my readers, I wanted to share with you that my order came with a coupon code that is good for $5 off a $25+ order.  Try/use coupon code: iHeartYou

Eucerin Everyday Protection Face Lotion, SPF 30 [Review]

I feel like I am a constant search for the best daily facial lotion with sunscreen in it.  I have tried a lot of different kinds.  Many of them only come with an SPF 15 level so when I saw that Eucerin had SPF 30, I immediately knew that it was my new one to try out.  Eucerin Extra Protective Moisture Lotion claims to be many things: good for sensitive skin, offers sun protection, fragrance free, etc.  Here is my opinion:

Pros - affordable, lasts a long time (both the amount of product that you purchase and the moisturizing it provides throughout the day), container dispenses a good amount, effectively moisturizes without clogging pores, provides an SPF level you don't find in a lot of face lotions (that are intended for everyday use), fragrance free, felt lightweight and my skin is never irritated by it.

Cons - if you apply it too thickly, it will leave a bit of a white residue, you can feel an almost gritty-like texture if you apply too much and don't rub it in well enough or don't let it soak in.

Overall, I really liked this face lotion.  I am a believer in wearing a lotion with SPF on your face everyday (regardless of if you are going to the office, school or elsewhere).  I would definitely buy this lotion again (and I probably will at some point) and I think it is incredibly priced and efficient at what it claims to do.  Once you learn how much to apply and what works for your skin, I do not think you would have any problems that I listed unders the cons section.  I found I encountered these cons the most, when I was in a hurry and haphazardly getting ready or when it was really hot and I already felt like I was melting from the heat outside.

I love that so many product lines are coming out with a variety of products that include sunscreen and protection from the sun.  What are your favorite face lotions with SPF?  How about other makeup or skincare products?

'Yes to Carrots' Shampoo & Conditioner [Review]

Yes to Carrots website

I picked this shampoo and conditioner up at Target last week and I have been using it all week long.  I am in love with it!  It just might be my new favorite shampoo and conditioner ever!

Yes to Carrots describes this set:

The shampoo cleanses, nourishes and moisturizes your hair and scalp with Dead Sea Minerals, revitalizing and protecting it and leaving you with luminous, luscious locks. The Pampering Hair Mud Conditioner nourishes, conditions, softens, smoothes and tames even the wildest of tresses.

The scent of both the shampoo and conditioner is amazing!  It is a light, airy and fresh scent.  Kind of like carrots but not, at the same time.  I feel like these products have left my hair (which is notoriously weird) feeling healthier and cleaner than other shampoo/conditioner's that I have been using recently.  I also feel like my scalp feels more refreshed than usual.  I feel good when I use this shampoo and conditioner.  I know that I am supporting a good cause (by choosing to use something cruelty-free) and I like that I am surrounding myself with less chemicals.

Pros - cruelty free, paraben free, natural, organic products.  Cleanses well and rinses clean without leaving behind a residue.  Left my hair smooth, soft and moisturized.

Cons - could be difficult to find for some people. 

Click here and you will be brought to the 'Yes to Carrots' website, where you can save 10% of the retail price.

Have you tried anything from this product line?  What did you think?  Any other suggestions for me to try from this line?

Himalayan Salt Rock Lamps

I got a set of these salt rock lamps for my birthday this year.  I would say that, price-wise, your best bet would be to order these salt rock lamps online.  I have found that specialty healing shops, etc. seem to overprice them and charge a lot.   Clicking the picture above will bring you to a set of two salt rock lamps that are available on Amazon.

If you know me, you know that I really like Himalayan salt rock home decor, whether it be lamps, candle holders, solid plates of it, etc.  The warm, rich color that the rock turns when illuminated is beautiful and there are supposed to be a multitude of health benefits associated with these lamps (though as far as I know, this has not been proven).  Besides offering a gentle glow to soothe and calm, these lamps are said to emit negative ions, which help with reducing dust, bacteria, pet odor, insomnia, idor, allergies, sinus issues, depression, migraines, anxiety, fatigue, colds, ADHD, and asthma [source]. 

These lamps are one of my most favorite things I have ever received.  I love the soft glow, the fact that they are a conversation piece in my home and office (I have one at home and one at work on my desk), the fact that no two are the same and just the way I feel when I look at them.  I definitely think I will have these lamps for many years to come.

Here is what my lamp looks like in my bedroom (at dusk). 

I keep it next to my fish, Magma, because I know he enjoys the soft glow.

'Redken Color Extend Shampoo & Conditioner' Review

I got this shampoo when I dyed my hair dark brown (with some blue and a few highlights), a few months ago.  I needed something that would help my color to remain vibrant (for a reasonable period of time - it always fades over time) and I also wanted to maintain as much moisture as I could.  The salon I went to used Redken products so I opted to try some of the Color Extend shampoo and conditioner.

Overall, I have to say that I like this Color Extend line from Redken.  It smelled light and delightful, cleansed and moisturized my hair and I feel that it made it more manageable while styling it.  The shampoo successfully removed any product buildup from my hair and the conditioner replaced any lost moisture and smoothed the cuticle, making it easier to comb through after bathing.  I also feel that there was some slight protection from sub damage and fading that can be caused from being outside.

The great thing about these salon products is that you can get value sets a lot of the time.  This makes the cost more affordable and you can try it without spending full price, most of the time.  Be sure to check places like Ulta, beauty websites or click here to go to Amazon to find specials on this value set from the Redken line.

eos (Evolution of Smooth) Lip Balm

I just picked this lip balm up at Rite-Aid the other day.  It comes in a variety of flavors including lemon drop (spf 15), honeysuckle honeydew, summer fruit and sweet mint.  I picked up honeysuckle honeydew and summer fruit (since that is all the store had). 

According to eos, this lip balm:

•provides Long-lasting moisture


•Shea butter & vitamin E

•Smoothes on clear

•New smooth sphere precisely glides on to lips

•Twist-off top

•Gluten-free

•Paraben-free

•Petrolatum-free

•Phthalate-free

eos lip balm is 95% organic, 100% natural, and paraben and petrolatum free. Packed with antioxidant-rich vitamin E, soothing shea butter and jojoba oil, eos keeps your lips moist, soft and sensationally smooth.

This lip balm is fun, perfect for Summer (or any time you want to indulge in cute packaging) and I highly recommend it!  The container is forward-thinking, it's affordable (price ranges depending on where you buy it from), you can get it at many different stores, the flavors are delightful and it is a joy to apply.  I like the feeling on my lips, it's not too thick but it lasts and doesn't come off right away.  Plus, it's not tested on animals which is great as well!  I am sure that when I take this out in front of friends, it will be sure to be a conversation starter.

Just click on this picture and you will be brought to Amazon! 

I am definitely going to check out the lemon drop (with SPF 15 ) next.

The original Cosmopolitan story - by Cointreau staring Dita Von Teese

I love this video - I think Dita Von Teese looks beautiful in it!

mark. Earth Eau de Toilette

I just bought this perfume through Avon and I am in love with it.  Listen to the description:

Created with the global goddess in mind, our latest fragrance is a lush, beautiful blend of dewy green notes, fresh-cut flowers and warm, tender woods.

It looks like Avon or Mark. might be discontinuing it, so if you are into this kind of scent, you can get it for $7.99 right now!  Just click here and you will be brought to the Avon website!  I highly recommend this fragrance, it's a great price if you are unsure if you would like it and the bottle looks absolutely darling sitting on my bathroom counter.  I think that the woodsy/grass smell is a great pick-me-up, especially since I live in the city.  I might even have to buy myself some more bottles, just in case.  If you do try it out, let me know what you think!

Village Naturals 'Restless Nights' Foaming Bath Oil

I just got myself this bubble bath a few weeks ago and I am totally in LOVE with it.  It foams up incredibly well and the scent is great!  It has the essential oils of Lavender, Passion Flower & Chamomile, which I find to be incredibly soothing and relaxing.  Just pour a generous amount under running water and it foams up in no time.  I also liked that the bubbles lasted a long time, unlike so many other bubble baths that I have tried.  When I stepped out of the tub, I felt like my skin was moisturized and my muscles were relaxed.

Additionally, Village Naturals Therapy products are cruelty-free and based out of my home state of Minnesota (specifically Chaska, Minnesota)!

If you like bubble baths, definitely check this product line out.  I think it's affordable and does exactly what it claims to.  I know that once I am through with this bottle, I will definitely be ordering some more of their products, they offer a variety of "bath therapy" products that I would love to review in the future!

What's your favorite bubble bath product?  Any suggestions?

Shower Busters/Shower Steamer Review

I went to Bubbles of Laguna in Laguna Beach, CA this past week and picked myself up something called a Shower Buster or a Shower Steamer (depending on where you look).  It's an item that is similar to a bath bomb, only it's meant for the shower.  The directions according to Bubbles are:

Place one Shower Steamer on a flat surface in your shower. As it dissolves in the indirect spray, aromatherapy oils mix with the rising steam to provide a true spa experience.

You can also get these on Amazon, click on the picture above to check them out!

I tried out a grapefruit scented one last night and I have to say that I really liked it.  The half sphere shape sits where you put it and lightly bubbles from the steam hitting it.  These shower busters/shower steamers are inexpensive and the entire thing didn't dissolve in the shower that I took, so I will be able to use it again!  I let a light mist hit it and the whole bathroom filled with the scent of grapefruit.  After my shower, I took it out and put it in a dish to dry so that I will be able to continue using it when I want to.

I think that these are great for when you want some "spa therapy" but do not want to take the time to draw a whole bath.  I highly recommend them!  And if you are ever in Laguna Beach, check out Bubbles of Laguna, they are right on the Pacific Coast Highway as it goes through Laguna Beach.

Ikea Picture Frame Project

I took a picture frame and a poster that I bought at Ikea and...

 

           Without Flash                                                With Flash                

I cut the poster down and turned it into this!  Please excuse the reflection of me in the glass.  I have to admit that I saw this poster with this frame on display at Ikea like 6 months ago but I have been dreaming about it since we moved into our apartment.  I love the mix of the ornate/feminine frame and the yellow/green tinged flowers.  I think together it looks beautiful!  This is just the thing I needed to do to add something whimsical to our bedroom entrance area.

What is your favorite home project that you have worked on lately?

'Baronessa Cali' Lotion Recommendation & Review

I got a sample of this lotion at a hotel that I went to with my friends in Hollywood.  I have gotten around to using it now and let me tell you, you have to check this lotion out!  It might be pricey but with the internet, there are always ways around that! Check eBay or other websites that might be offering it for less.

This lotion moisturizes beautifully, leaving the skin delicately soft.  The scent is light and slightly floral/sweet but definitely not like a bouquet.  The scent of this lotion is something that keeps me reaching for it.  I like when things are "scented" without have a particular named scent.  I am also impressed with how it sinks right into my skin and doesn't leave a layer oil like some lotions I have tried do.  I have found that this lotion has really help my cuticles to calm themselves and they have had time to heal while I am using it.

If you go to Baronessa Cali's website, you can get a 50 mL size of this lotion for $4.  A great way to check it out and see if you like it!  If you want to take the plunge and splurge, click on the link of the left and it will take you straight to Amazon to give it a shot.

After I use up some of the other stuff that I have, I am definitely going to try out some more products from Baronessa Cali in the future.  I want to see if their other products live up to what they say it does.

'essence XXXL shine lip gloss' swatch and review

essence is a cosmetics line that I recently saw at Ulta. The products are inexpensive so I thought I would give one of their lipglosses a shot. My first impression is that this company is kind of the like the European Wet N' Wild. Inxpensive cosmetics that a lot of people can try out and see if they like what they have to offer.

essence describes this gloss:

the XXXL shine lipgloss ensures outrageously shiny and pampered lips. shimmering color pigments conjure-up an amazing volume effect while a rich complex containing vitamin e and panthenol ingredients prevents your lips from feeling dry.

 essense XXL shine lip gloss in Pick Me Up

This lip gloss is not amazing but it isn't so bad either.  It's very sheer, you can see from my swatch above that it doesn't add any color to my lips, I might as well have bought the clear version.  The formula feels moisturizing and smooth on my lips, not sticky or tacky.  It also has a scent that I can't quite place.  It is kind of a fruity scent but has a bit of something else as well.  I like it.

Additionally, the brush is unique.  It is like a long, thin paddle mixed with the doe foot applicator.  I thought that was interesting when I first opened it.

Pros - very inexpensive (approx. $1.99), variety of colors (haven't tried any others to know if they are sheer or not), nice scent, moisturizing, not sticky, no taste.

Cons - not pigmented, comes off after a bit (you will have to reapply often).

'Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay in Place ShadowCreme (in Vintage Violet)' Swatch

 

CremeShadow in Vintage Violet (with primer on top, without on bottom)

Estee Lauder describes: 

Creme eyeshadow delivers intense color that lasts up to 15 hours and goes on fast.

Long-Wear, Stay-True Color
It's stay-true color at your fingertips with matte to demi-pearl finishes.
Creamy formula goes on smoothly, blends easily.
Seamless coverage won't crease or fade.
Can be worn alone or layered under powder eyeshadow.
For all skintypes & ideal for mature skin as it minimizes pulling & tugging of the delicate eyelid.

This  creme shadow is AMAZING!  It has taken me some time to get used to creme shadows but once I figured out how they work with my skin and what I can do to make them look good, I love them!  This Estee Lauder ShadowCreme seriously will not move after you put it on and let it set.  When I was doing the swatches, I went to wash my hands afterwards and the was just going to rub the shadow off and it wouldn't move!

Pros - color true to what you see in container, stays in place after it sets (will not budge, must use cleanser and water to remove), feels good upon application, dries to a nice finish (doesn't stay tacky or anything like some creme shadows do), variety of colors to choose from, easily available, a little goes a long way.

Cons - expensive (approx. $17.50), have to get used to working with a creme eyeshadow.

After a whole day of wear.

Overall, I really recommend Estee Lauder's ShadowCreme.  It does everything that I was looking for a creme eyehadow to do and I am very impressed with it.

Has anyone ever tried any other creme shadows that they really liked?  I would like some additional recommendations if you have any.

'Fizzy Baker Raspberry Cupcake Bath Bomb' Review

I received this bath bomb as a birthday present and I just got around to trying it out.  Overall, the cuteness factor of this bath bomb rules out most of the bad feelings I had towards it.  I have never seen another bath bomb like this so it looked very cute in my bathroom!

However, it did not deliver when I put it in my bath last night.  I was hoping for a stronger raspberry or cake scent, which it ended up not having.  I didn't feel that this bomb softened the water in any way or that it really did anything to change my bath water (like a bath bomb should do whether it be changing it in color, scent, creating bubbles, softening the skin, etc).  The top of the cupcake is supposed to be able to be used like soap but it just felt plastic.  It didn't feel like soap at all so I couldn't really use it.

So, if you have a friend, significant other, mother, sister, etc. who like cupcakes (as many people do), get this for them.  But get it for them with the understanding that it is pretty much for looks and not for what the bath bomb is going to do to enhance the experience of their bathtime.

'Palladio Tinted Lip Balm (in Champagne)' Swatch & Review

Palladio cosmetics are something that I recently read about on another beauty blog.  So I decided to first try our their tinted lip balm's since they are so highly regarded by other makeup enthusiasts.

Palladio Tinted Lip Balm in Champagne

Palladio describes these lip balms as:

A unique emollient that contains natural UV filters such as Caprylic/Capric Trigyceride (a liquid derived from Coconut Oil), this exclusive formula protects against the sun while deeply penetrating the lips’ surface with intense conditioning. At less than half the price of department store competitors, these balms are available in a wide variety of sheer colors that are sure to look gorgeous on any skin tone.

Overall, this lip balm is applies very sheer and is comfortable on the lips.  It has just a bit of shimmer to it.  However, you need to be careful not to apply too much or it will get a bit cakey.  The scent is a bit odd but I quickly got used to it.  It's an herbal scent that caught me off guard since I wasn't used to it.  I think these are great lip balms that offer just a hint of color, feel good on the lips, come in a variety of colors and are affordable.

I am definitely going to try out the Berry or Orange colors next.  Check them out and let me know what you think when you do!

Lancome Vernis Absolu Nail Polish in Rouge Ombre

Lacnome Vernis Absolu nail polish in Rouge Ombre

Ulta Glam Goth Nail Polish Collection

I just saw this Glam Goth set at Ulta this weekend and I had to get it. In the Ulta that I go to, it was next to the register, I almost didn't see it when I was there!  I really like dark nail polish colors because to me, they can sophisticated yet still edgy in their own various ways.  I like a kind of "goth" sophistication without all of the kiddie influence that an alternative style can have.

Here is what the brush looks like.  Even though it is stout, I found it pretty easy to use.  I like mini nail polish collections because I rarely use an entire bottle of nail polish before it goes bad.

Underground - A dark black with blue shimmer.  There are a lot of colors like this so there is nothing special about it but it is a nice color.

Tainted Love - I am reading that many people like this color.  It is green with gold glitter, quite lovely.  I have also read that it is a near dupe for Sally Hansen's Project Runway so if you missed that or liked that, pick this up.  Personally, I have found that that a lot of greens are hard for me to wear, they end up looking too yellow with my skin.  So a deep forest green is nice to see.

Black Lace - I think this should have a different name, it doesn't seem to fit this kind of nail polish.  A nice deep grey creme, rich and saturated looking.  I think I will wear this regularly.

For Bitten - pink/magenta and orange glitter in a black base.  I love this color and I think it mixes an edgy/sophisticated color with a touch of fun that isn't too bright or too over the top (for when you want to be more subdued in your "alternativeness."  This is my personal favorite color out of this collection.

After Hours - a purple with some shimmer in it.  A nice, normal purple that really doesn't have anything too special or unique about it but still a nice purple.  I think this purple would be cooler if the purple shimmer didn't match it so much and it sparked more than it does.

How to Destroy Angels - The Space in Between

 How to Destroy Angels: The Space in Between

How to Destory Angels is a new band that includes Trent Reznor, his wife Mariqueen Maandig and Atticus Ross.  I think this video [above] is beautiful and I can't wait to hear and see more.  The styling and emotion evoked in this music video goes with the music perfectly.  Everything from the simplicity of the hotel room they are in, to the way the dress she is wearing singes under the heat of the fire, is a good aesthetic choice.  I think it is one of the better music videos I have seen in a long time.

Click this picture to hear their first single 'Drowning' (and buy it if you like) on Amazon.

Look of the Day

Hey everyone!  I wanted to show you my makeup that I did for my eyes today.  I really like it and I plan to wear this look a lot (with variations of course!) in the coming months.

Here are the products I used:

MAC eyeshadow in Sketch on outer corners

Ten eyeshadow in Suede on inner corners of eyes

Sephora eyeshadow in Aspen Summit, lightly on tear duct

Lancome Hypnose Mascara

Milani 'Black Magic Liner & Eye Glimmer' Swatch and Review

A swatch of Black Magic liner in Blackened Pink (bottom) and Eye Glimmer in Pink Magic (top)

Milani Cosmetics states this eyeliner can be used in the following way:

A dual-ended pencil that delivers three amazing looks! Apply blackened liner on lash line or on the eye lid for deep, dramatic eyes. Use the glimmer top coat over the blackened liner to create a spectacular dazzling look.

Wear the glimmer top coat by itself on entire eye lid for a magical effect!

Use blackened eyeliner to create a thin or thick line on lower or upper lashlines. Can also be used to color in eyelids for an instant striking look. Apply glimmer topcoat over eyeliner for a dramatic finish or wear alone on entire eyelids for a shimmer effect.

Tip: To extend the wear, apply your foundation or pressed powder on entire eyelid before applying Black Magic Blackened Eyeliner & Glimmer Topcoat.

Pros - compact, easy for travel, a variety of fun colors, affordable and easy to find at stores.

Cons - creases easily, not as deep and pigmented as I would like, large pieces of glitter, fades and gets spotty as the day goes on.

I think this eyeliner/eyeshadow is just OK.  I don't hate it but I definitely don't love it.  I am going to have a try a variety of ways to keep it from creasing (a normal base just didn't help it enough).  I like the idea of this kind of 2-in-1 product that allows me to go from a light to a more intense look.  I think that this will definitely be able to be used as a base and then I can layer other items on top of it.

Have you tried this or a product like it?  What did you think?

Coastal Scents 'Frenzy' Eyeshadow Swatch

 This is what a sample size container looks like.

A swatch of Coastal Scents Frenzy eyeshadow

Coastal Scents describes this eyeshadow:

Frenzy is satiny smooth with the faintest touch of peach and tan tone. This color works great all over eye prior to adding contrast colors.

To me, this color is a light pink and is a great neutral, shimmery color.  I think this could also be used as a highlighter for the brow or for the inner corner of the eye.  I forsee myself using this color a lot in the future, especially on days when I just want a simple/light wash of color.

LUSH: 13 Soap (Unlucky for Dirt) Handmade Soap

Lush 13 Soap (Unlucky for Dirt) is an interesting soap.  Here is the description from Lush:

Our beautiful rose and oregano soap gets its name from a 1931 Hollywood film about a soap company; the son advertised a soap that didn't exist and demand was so high, the dad had to make it. Sounds like typical LUSH, except for the advertising part. Sue and Dawn from the UK had been asked by nurses for an oregano soap because they'd heard that oregano kills bacteria. This lovely soap has been like gold dust; we adore its translucent loveliness, its herbal scent and its very effective cleansing properties.

Pros - Creates a light lather, very mild scent (not overpowering), chemical free.

Cons - Melts quickly, soap didn't seem to last through too many showers or baths, have to order online if there is not a store near you, expensive.

Overall, I recommend this soap for someone who is sensitive to chemicals or is interested in going green with their bathroom products.   I think many products at Lush can be hit or miss but for the most part, this soap is OK.  I only wish it didn't melt so quickly so that it would last longer than it did for me.

Redken Real Control Intense Renewal Hair Mask/Conditioner

I bought 'Redken Real Control Intense Renewal' hair mask awhile ago and I have to say, that I really like it.  I find that it really helps to moisturize, condition and repair my hair from the coloring that I do to it and also the general dryness that it tends to get over time.

Pros - Moisturizing, smells wonderful (it has that salon product smell, light and clean), creamy, covers and conditions hair well, product lasts a long time even if with regular use, attractive packaging.

Even though this product is somewhat expensive (depending on where you get it from), I think it's an investment.  You aren't going to use it everytime you wash your hair and a 8.5 oz. tub with last you a long time. 

Cons - Not available everywhere, might be too heavy and moisturizing for very fine hair.  I think this hair mask would be best for thick, damaged or frizzy hair.  If you do have very fine hair and want to use this hair mask, I would only use a little bit and I would really concentrate it on the ends.

Do you have a favorite hair mask that you like to use?  What is it and why?  I would love some recommendations!

Manicure - Revlon 'Minted' with Wet n Wild 'Glitz'

Revlon nail polish in Minted with Wet n' Wild in Glitz on top

This was hard to photograph, it is just a bit more green but my camera tinges in kind of light blue

I was really excited about the Revlon nail polish in Minted when I picked it up the other day.  However, I don't recommend it.  The formula was horrible to work with.  It might be better the second time around (I am keeping my fingers crossed) but with this first manicure, it was streaky and thin.  Then when you applied more coats, it became thick and hard to evenly apply.  I felt like it was a waste of money even if it is drugstore nail polish so that is why I am hoping it will get better, the more I use it.

Anyone have any suggestions for a better nail polish in a mint color?

Homemade Sugar Scrub

I found this simple recipe from a blog on healthy & green living:

1/2 cup sugar
Enough cold-pressed oil (olive, wheat germ, peanut, corn, or sunflower) to dampen the mixture

I wanted a really simple recipe that would allow me to take household ingredients and make my own sugar scrub (which sugar scrubs at the store, in my opinion, are way more expensive most of the time than it should be).  You can get really fancy with the recipe, adding in banana, avocado, etc. depending on what type of moisturization you are looking for.

Here's my verdict on this recipe and how I feel it works:

This recipe is so easy and quick to make!  I used sugar and vegetable oil since that was all I had.  I also mixed a few drops of rose perfume oil in that I just got from Coastal Scents and then I scrubbed away.  I felt awesome afterwards.  It exfoliated well and left behind a thin layer of oil to protect and moisturize my skin.  I didn't feel oily or greasy, just moisturized and refreshed.

I definitely recommend creating this quick scrub at home especially if you are trying to save money or use up some ingredients you have lying around.  You can scrub as gently or as hard as you want depending on the kind of exfoliation you are looking for and you can customize the scrub to your liking.  I think this is a great homemade option for people who are allergic to certain ingredients and need options that are free of certain chemicals.

PS - If I am going to buy a scrub ever again, I like Bath & Body Works Cucumber Melon Salt Scrub 16 oz.  It's my favorite and I like to get it every once in awhile, especially when there is some sort of sale going on.

Milani Lipstick in Rose Hip

Milani Color Perfect Lipstick in Rose Hip (an intense pink)

This lipstick is exactly what I was looking for.  I am totally impressed with this drugstore brand and I look forward to trying more of their products!  This lipstick is creamy, moisturizing, vibrant, true to color, affordable and lasts a long time with minimal touch-ups needed.  This is probably one of the best feeling lipsticks that I have worn in a long time, it feels so light weight on my lips.  I really like it!

Check out more color options on Milani's website and if you have tried this lipstick, what did you think of it?