Review of the products I featured in my last blog...plus a few new ones

Hello! I previously posted some new products I'd gotten but hadn't had a chance to try. I've tried them out and given them a fair chance to WOW me....here's my opinions. I've also added a few other new products that I'll also share with you. Let's start...

Too-Faced Three Way Lash Lining Tool

I hated this!!!! I purchased it to tightline my eyes. Tightlining is when you line your upper waterline. It makes your lashes look fuller and longer.  This product was advertised as a liner that could tightline your eyes...it DOES NOT WORK. It's okay to use as a regular eyeliner...but it is by no means waterproof and does not stay on your upper or lower waterline at all. I returned it. It is horrible!!! I was so disappointed. Definitely not worth the hefty $22.00 price tag. But I did find one that worked....which was also by Too Faced. It is the next product I'll review.

Too Faced Perfect Eyes Waterproof Eyeliner

This liner is wonderful! It is DARK black and stays on your waterline better than any other liner I've ever tried! The only thing I don't like is that it's very soft, requiring it to have to be sharpened. A lot. Therefore, it will run out fast. But I have the same problem with Urban Decay 24/7 Eyeliner in Perversion. I have to sharpen it often as well. This has replaced my Perversion liner though as my favorite. I feel it goes on my tightline a lot easier and stays on better. At $18.00 it is pretty pricey, especially if you have to sharpen it a lot and it runs out fast. But I love it, so I'll repurchase it.

Covergirl Clump Crusher and Covergirl Lash Perfection Mascaras

These mascaras are really good!!! The Clump Crusher is similar to Benefit's They're Real mascara, but it is way easier to remove! I HATE when I can't get all of my mascara off, and They're Real is really hard to get off IMO, but the Clump Crusher, paired with Lash Perfection, make my lashes look AMAZING and comes off easily, but stays on all day without flaking. Each are a bargain as well, at $6.99 for the Clump Crusher and $5.99 for the Lash Perfection at Target! If you're looking for a new mascara, or a combo as I'm reviewing here...try these. I love them!!!

Revlon Colorstay Whipped Foundation

I've been using this foundation for a few weeks because I read online it was a dupe for Laura Mercier's Silk Creme Foundation. I'm not sure if I agree with that. They go on similarly and have a similar consistency, but I don't LOVE this Revlon version. It's a good foundation for the price of around $10.00, but I will probably not repurchase it. It stays on well and gives good coverage, but I just can't find a color that matches me as well as the Laura Mercier one does. That's my pet peeve with drugstore foundations...they are really hard to match to skin tone. I'll stick with the luxury brand foundation I suppose.

Nars Light Reflecting Pressed Powder

I used the loose version of this and hated it, so I decided to try the pressed version. First off, there's a weird film over this product that I had to sort of buff off to even get any product on my brush. Secondly, you don't THINK you're getting any product on your brush after that initial scraping off, but you are. I've already hit major pan on this and didn't really ever feel like I was getting anything on my brush. I like the way this looks on my skin. It gives me a flawless, airbrushed look. I just wish it lasted longer. I guess it's like any other powder that has to be reapplied. It's quite pricey at $34.00, but it does give a pretty finish. (I still love my $3 Rimmel Stay Matte Powder better....)



That's all I have for today. If you've clicked on the links for the drugstore products you'll notice I've linked Target or Walmart rather than Ulta. That's because Ulta jacks up their prices on stuff you can get at Walmart/Target. I'm talking up to FIVE DOLLARS MORE. Ridiculous. If you're at Ulta buying some higher end stuff not sold in drugstores and decide you need a drugstore product, too, I can see purchasing it since you're already there, but if you are JUST buying drugstore products, GO TO TARGET OR WALMART!!!!! You'll save so much money. Plus, I don't like Ulta's return policy. They hassle me every time I try to return something, even with a receipt. That's crappy customer service. I didn't steal the damn thing, lady!!! Just exchange it for Pete's sake!!! I guess I'm spoiled with Sephora's kick ass return policy. They take back ANYTHING and EVERYTHING. I don't like feeling like I'm doing something wrong when trying to return a crappy product (ie the Too Faced 3 Way Liner), and Ulta makes me feel like I am.


XOXO, Jenn

Drugstore haul, mini Sephora haul, and GIVEAWAY!

If you haven't checked out my giveaway, follow this link to participate. Just share the giveaway post on your page and make sure you "like" my Facebook page and please follow the blog! Giveaway ends on Tuesday, 11/05/13 at 8pm CST. One winner will receive samples of Benefit's They're Real Mascara, BeneTint lip and cheek stain, and Sugarbomb lip gloss. After this giveaway ends I'll have another within the next few weeks!

Too Faced 3-Way Lash Lining Tool

So, I was watching some YouTube videos on tightlining your eyes and decided to get Too Faced 3-Way Lash Lining Tool. Tightlining is when you use a waterproof eyeliner to line your upper waterline. Sound scary? I agree. I haven't used this yet, but I am going to do an update as soon as I do to let you know how it works.  This liner has three little tips used to just put dots along your waterline rather than drawing a line. Search YouTube for videos on how to use this.  My favorite video is from Ciaoobelllaxo, which focuses on her overall lash routine, which leads me into the next mascara purchases I made yesterday.  You can purchase this for $22.00 from Sephora.

Cover Girl Clump Crusher and Cover Girl Lash Perfection Mascaras

So, it's not a secret that I love Benefit's They're Real Mascara, hence my giveaway, but I'm always out to find something...different. I hesitate to say better since I love They're Real, but after watching Ciaoobelllaxo's mascara routine video, I had to get these. Again, this is a haul, so I haven't used them yet, but I will post a review as soon as I've tried them. You can find these at Ulta, but in all honesty, I'd purchase any drug store brands at Walmart if they're available there. Ulta and Walgreens tend to mark up there products as much as $4.00. No matter what coupon you have, what deals they have going on, or what free gifts you'll get...you often end up paying more at Ulta and Walgreens than you would at Walmart. However, some products aren't available at Walmart...like the Rimmel Show Off lip lacquers that I love. I have only found them at Walgreens, not Ulta or Walmart. These mascaras run on average between $5.00 and $6.00 each.

Revlon Colorstay Whipped Foundation

I am a high end foundation girl...so I really never use any foundations from the drugstore, but after watching countless videos on this foundation, I decided to get it to try. My current favorite high end foundation is Laura Mercier's Silk Finish Foundation. It sells for $43.00. Now I will pay a pretty penny for makeup, but when I heard that the Revlon Colorstay Whipped Foundation is a dupe for the Laura Mercier one, and sells for $9.99 at my local Walmart, I had to get it to try it out. I'll update you when I try it out to see if it's a good as they say. This is another instance of Ulta marking up their prices. I paid $9.99 for this at Walmart. It was $13.99 at Ulta. Ridiculous.

L'oreal Paris Total Repair 5 Damage-Erasing Balm

This is a product I've actually already tried. My friend Catina messaged me about this hair balm, and I was on my way shopping, so I picked it up...and BOY am I glad I did! This stuff claims to erase up to a year's worth of damage. I'm pleased with the results! It smells SO GOOD and left my so soft and smooth. It looks healthier than it has in years, and for around $6.00, it can't be beat. I love my high end shampoos and conditioners, but this is a new holy grail item for me. Thanks, Catina!!!!

I will do an updated entry once I've tried everything out. Until then, don't forget to check out my Facebook giveaway!


XOXO, Jenn

Benefit Giveaway!

Giveaway!!!

Hi, everyone! I am doing a small giveaway! You will receive samples of Benefit's They're Real Mascara, BeneTint, and a lip gloss! Just go to my Facebook page and share the page and get some friends to "like" the page and follow my blog!!! Click here for the link to my facebook page to find the rules!

October Favorites

I haven't posted a blog in forever... Ever since I discontinued my Birchbox, Ipsy, and Glossybox, I've slacked on my blog posts. I canceled my subs for a few reasons.

1) I felt as though I was getting the same brands over and over. I may get different product, but they were repeatedly from the same brands.
2) I really don't need 12 make up bags a year...but thanks anyway, Ispy. It was just getting too ridiculous. My cabinets were just getting cluttered.
3) As with Glossybox...I felt like I didn't know the brands I was receiving. I kept getting stuff that I'd never heard of from brands I'd never heard of and most of the time, the brands weren't available in the US. I just got my last Glossybox, and I must say, they did step up their game this month, but I can't help but think it's because I'd emailed them 3 times telling them to cancel my subscriptions.
4) I kept getting the same color palettes. Always red lip products. Always brown shadows. Always pale ugly nail polishes. No variety.

I am going to try to get subscribed to Popsugar, but it seems like it's really hard to get on the list for that. Every time I try, they're sold out. There are a few others I want to try, like some chocolate subscription and some "time of the month" boxes. Until then, here are some of my favorite products lately.

Oh...and I almost forgot....my town finally got a Sephora (inside JC Penney...but better than nothing) and and Ulta!!! And....I heard we were getting a Gigi's Cupcakes!!! This is what heaven must be like.....

October Favorites

Rimmel Show Off Lip Lacquers

Stop what you're doing and go buy these. Right now. They are TO DIE FOR!!!!! They are so pigmented, so creamy, and stay on for hours. Best of all, they are AFFORDABLE!!! Less than $5 each! (The links take you to Walgreens...where they are on sale for $3.99 right now! The sale is in the store as well. It probably ends today or tomorrow...) I have the two shades I'm posting: Apocalyptic (bright pink) and Big Bang (vintage/old Hollywood red). I LOVE THEM. I get compliments every time I wear them. They are better than any high end gloss/lacquer I've ever used. Hands down. You can find these at Target, Walmart, and Walgreens. I've really started loving Rimmel products. I posted before that their Stay Matte powder is phenomenal and I still think so. So, if you're on a budget, try some of the Rimmel products!

Big Bang

Apocalyptic

Nars Bronzer in Laguna

Nars Bronzer in Laguna is my all time favorite bronzer. It is the perfect color with no orange tones or shimmer. It retails for $36 and is worth every penny.

Nars Light Reflecting Pressed Powder

I tried this in the loose powder form and HATED IT. I decided to try the pressed version and LOVE IT. When you swipe your brush over it, you won't think you're getting any product but you are. You have to gently sweep it over your pores to get the desired effect. It helps hide flaws and pores beautifully. It's $34 at Sephora.

Nars Single Eyeshadows in Fathom and Lhasa

Fathom is the prettiest pale pink shadow! It has silver glitter that give it just the right amount of shimmer. I don't usually buy shadow singles, but I couldn't pass this beauty up!!! I love how it brightens my eye without looking like a babydoll pink. It is a nice change from cream/off white shadows that I usually put from lid to brow.

Lhasa is a gorgeous lavendar-grey that gives the most gorgeous subtle smokey eye, especially when paired with Fathom! I thought Lhasa was only around as a special edition shade, meaning it was going to be discontinued, but maybe they are keeping it since it's still available. I hope they are, because it is gorgeous.  These sell for $24 each.

Batiste Dry Shampoo

I happened across Batiste Dry Shampoo while on vacation this summer and I'm so happy I did. I have two: Wild (I couldn't resist the leopard print bottle...sue me) and Hint of Color Dark/Deep Brown, which sprays a dark brown rather than the white. So, if you're like me, most of the dry shampoos that are white show up in my hair. The "Wild" version is white. I LOVE the dark brown dry shampoo. I don't have to worry about it showing up in my hair and making me look silly. It also comes in a color for blondes, but I haven't tried that one so I'm not sure how it works. Batiste comes in a variety of scents such as Tropical, Paisley (not sure what that scent is...but remember they have one called Wild...), Cherry, among others. These are available at Ulta, some Walgreens stores, and various other drug stores. The regular ones that aren't colored sell for $7.99. The brunette/blonde versions sell for $8.99. Ulta often runs a buy 1 get 1 half off on these...and currently is...so get you some!

I have so many more favorites I want to share with you, but writing, gathering pictures, editing, etc takes a lot of time, so I'll have to continue this another day. Thanks for reading! Please follow my blog and "like" my Facebook fan page! XOXO

Current Favorites! (Mostly drug store/Ulta products...only one high end product this time!)

So....yeah....I haven't blogged in a LONG TIME. I've just not been feeling it. Sorry. I guess it's because I gave up my Birchbox and Ipsy subscriptions awhile back. I felt like I was getting the same products/brands over and over, and I felt like I had way more "crap" products that were just cluttering up my make up drawers and not getting used. I am, however, going to sub to Popsugar's Must Have Box next month. September was already sold out, so I guess I'll wait for October. There are a few others I think I'm going to try. One is a "time of the month" box. If you haven't heard of those, google them. Lots of goodies in them. There are some other sweets boxes I'm going to try. But for now, I wanted to share some of my current favorites.

Rimmel London Stay Matte Pressed Powder

I heard about this powder on Tanya  Burr's YouTube channel, and I must say, I love it! For one thing, it is cheap as dirt. Less than $5 at Walmart, Ulta, Walgreens, etc. It also keeps my makeup matte all day, and I have super oily skin. I've tried all kinds of high end powder...Nars, Bare Minerals (gag...), MAC, Make Up For Ever, YSL...you name it, I've used it. This is the best by far. I use the translucent powder throughout the day if I need my makeup to look freshened up. I use a tinted one (sorry...don't remember the shade) in the morning to set my makeup. It is such a great buy for the price. I wish the packaging was a little nicer, but it's 5 bucks. Worth every penny!

Ulta Eyeshadow Palettes

I received two eyeshadow quads (pics courtesy eBay) from Ulta this summer as free gifts with purchase, and I must say, they have the best pigmentation I've ever seen! The quads aren't sold in stores, but you can buy the singles in stores and online. Best thing about these shadows? They're only $7! ($4 right now on sale!!!!!!) They are so pigmented and have great staying power! Not to mention they're inexpensive!

Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner

This is another YouTube guru find that I'm so glad I found!!! This is THE BEST gel eyeliner you can buy. Again, I've tried lots of high end products, but this in Blackest Black is my go to gel liner. I don't use the brush it comes with. I use a Sigma E11 Eyeliner Brush. This eyeliner is usually around $9.99, but Ulta and Walgreen's often have them buy 1 get 1 half price. Ulta has this special going on right now!

MAC Frankly Scarlet Blush

Yes, this is a terrifyingly red RED BLUSH! It's once again a product I came across fromTanya Burr's YouTube channel.  It is surprisingly wearable, if you have a light hand. It gives me the most natural flushed look. I absolutely adore this blush and I haven't used anything else since I ordered it! I don't think MAC counters in department stores still carry it, at least my local Dillard's didn't. I had to order it online. I believe you can purchase it from a MAC store though. Don't be afraid of this! It is such a beautiful color!!!


Well, that's all I have for today. I hope you enjoyed this little blurb of my favorites.

XOXO

July Ipsy Glam Bag Review

Time for my Ipsy Glam Bag review! I think I might wait one more month then cancel. I've just not been super impressed with it. I really want to try the Popsugar subscription service. If any of you have tried it, let me know. I've seen reviews on YouTube and it looks awesome! It's not just make up. I'll post a link to eleventhgorgeous's review of last month's Popsugar sub at the bottom.

Well, it's a cute little clear pink bag. I think I'd use it to carry things in a beach bag, but not in my purse as it's not very pliable. It's cute, but not my favorite by any means. Last month's leopard bag was my favorite, and I forgot to review it. LOL

California Collection by BH Cosmetics

This is a sample of eye shadows from the BH Cosmetics California Collection. The actual palettes contain more shadows and a few blushes in them. The colors I received were very pretty. Hollywood is a shimmery purple, but goes on pretty light. San Francisco is a shimmery brown. Malibu is a shimmery gold. I was concerned when they were so shimmery, as I usually wear matte shadows, but these were just the right amount of shimmer. They didn't make me feel like a 12 year old playing with makeup. The palettes are very reasonably priced, too. I assume each one of these shadows comes from one of their palettes with the same name: the Hollywood palette, the San Francisco palette, and the Malibu palette. They fold up into a cute little square compact that you can throw in your purse. The packaging reminds me of The Balm's packaging. Each palette contains 16 eye shadows and 4 blushes. You can't beat the price, either...$9.95 each!!! Even better....you can get 10% off any of the palettes from the California Collection if you enter the promo code Ipsy at checkout, which comes to $7.00 a palette!!! You cannot beat that deal!

Pop Beauty Pouty Pop Crayon

I love lipstick crayons, so I was excited to get this cutie in my bag! It's a light peach color. Great for applying when you don't want a lot of color. I was also impressed at how creamy it was. It didn't stay on very long, but that didn't bother me. Sorry you can't really tell the color from this picture. I should have done a swatch on my hand...shoulda coulda woulda... Oh, well... You can follow this link to see the color better. It's the center crayon. This lippy comes in a set of 6 from Pop Beauty for $25.00. It's currently sold out, but keep checking! You can save 20% off your purchase from Pop Beauty with the code POPLUVSIPSY.

COOLA SPF 20 Mineral Sunscreen

This is the third or fourth product I've received from this brand, and I'm still not impressed. Ipsy really seems to be pushing it for some reason. My skin isn't sensitive, but this stuff makes me turn red and feel like my face is on fire. I don't know what the deal is, but this just doesn't agree with me. It's organic...so that makes it even stranger. You'd think organic products would not be as harsh. I received the unscented version, but I noticed they have a rose scented version and I would have rather had gotten that. I'm a sucker for anything rose scented, so my review probably would have been different if I'd gotten the rose scent. Ha. Overall, I haven't been too impressed with this brand of products. The tag line of these products is "Ideal for all skin types and tones, including those that are especially sensitive." Maybe my face is just used to chemicals??? Who knows... This is pretty pricey at $36.00 on the COOLA website, but you can receive 30% off your purchase with the promotional code IPSY at checkout.

Big Sexy Hair Weather Proof Humidity Resistant Spray

I'm a HUGE fan of Big Sexy Hair products, especially their Powder Play, so I was excited to get this! It is a spray that helps control frizz and keep your style in tact in humid climates. THANK YOU!!!!!! I loved this product! Living in Arkansas, it is humid all summer long, and my hair shows it! I used this after curling my hair with my waving wand and it really helped the curls hold their shape. This is NOT a hairspray (just my opinion), although it is marketed as one. I felt I needed to still use hair spray to hold stray hairs in place. This product aids in keeping your hair from reacting to humidity. I used it right before walking out the door as a finishing spray.  I sprayed my hair with hairspray first, then applied this product. This Weather Proof Humidity Spray retails for $18.95. If you purchase through Ulta, you can use the code 108723 at checkout for $5.00 off a purchase of $25.00 or more. This code is good for any Big Sexy Hair products purchased at Ulta until 08/15/13. There are other great deals on the Ulta website worth checking out as well.

DermaE Microdermabrasion Scrub with Dead Sea Salt

I love a good microdermabrasion scrub, so I was excited to receive this sample....until I opened it....

It's practically empty!!! BOO!!!!!! I haven't even used this yet, mind you. There's nothing in it. I'm so disappointed. I am going to email Ipsy and see if they'll send me a replacement. Since I haven't used it, I can't really review it, but I'll go ahead and give you the price and a link to where you can read more about it. I was really intrigued with the whole dead sea salt thing, so I'm hoping Ipsy will give me another one to try. The price is $32.50 for the full size. You can use the coupon code IPSY0713 for 20% off your purchase.

Overall, I was pleased with my Glam Bag. If you want to subscribe and want to bypass the waiting period, follow this link to sign up! It's only $10.00 a month and you get 4 to 5 samples, plus a cute bag!!! 

If you're interested in subscribing to Birchbox, follow this link to bypass their waiting list. It's also just $10.00 a month! You get 4 to 5 samples each month, and when you go to Birchbox and review your products, you get points to use in the Birchbox store!!! You get 10 points for each product reviewed. Each 100 points can be redeemed for $10.00 off in the Birchbox Store. Each $1 you spend in the store also gives you 1 point.

Glossybox is a bit more pricey at $21.00 a month, but it includes brands from other countries, and some that are much more expensive than the ones you get from the other 2 subs. If you 're interested in signing up and want to bypass the waiting list, email me or post your email address in the comments and I'll send you the information!

Thanks!

XOXO, Jenn

Here are some links to Eleventhgorgeous's PopSugar Must Have Boxes:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JS-hDTbDKzM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1MAO-CgsZ6M
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gj7561mVNMg (MOST RECENT BOX)

Battle of the Sunless Tanners!

This summer, I've tried several different self tanners. I own a tanning bed, but I stopped using it two years ago because I decided that if I got skin cancer from something I did to myself, I'd never forgive myself. I also had a few friends who discovered melanomas on them, and one of them wasn't fortunate enough to beat his and passed away quickly after discovering it. Skin cancer is more common than people realize. It is also deadly, and more people need to understand that. I know many people who think they can just get it removed and all will be okay. That's not always the case. It can spread fast, all over your body, to your organs, to your brain. It is deadly. Please consider this the next time you're laying by the pool or in a sunbed. Okay, enough of the mom preaching.....let's talk about sunless tanners!

I have tried sever this summer. I've tried drugstore brands all the way to VERY expensive brands. I'm going to review them each in a pro/con fashion. These aren't particularly the BEST or WORST sunless tanners out there. They're just the ones I've purchased and tried.

Jergens Natural Glow Foaming Daily Moisturizer

 PROS:
~Fairly good basic tan
~Easy application
~Does not stain your hands if you wash them immediately
~Did not stain my clothes
~Did not have to be washed off like many other tanners
~Scent was not as bad as others
~Inexpensive ($7.00-$9.00)
~Available in different shades (note that the link takes you to only one of the shades)
~Did not streak, but this depends on how careful you are when applying it

CONS:
~Not long lasting
~Had to be reapplied often, resulting in running out and having to purchase frequently to maintain the tan
~Not moisturizing at all...don't expect it to replace your lotion
~I didn't feel like it gave buildable coverage, even when applying every day for a week (I felt like I got to a certain shade of tan and that was it, no matter how much/how often I applied it, and I had the darkest shade)

OVERALL VERDICT: This is a good product if you want an inexpensive self tanner. If you want to get super dark, this isn't for you. I felt the price was good for the quality of the product. It did not streak and gave a natural color.

Jergens Natural Glow Firming Daily Moisturizer

 PROS:
~Gives a natural tan over time
~Available in different shades (note that the link takes you to only one of the shades)
~Tolerable scent
~Inexpensive ($7.00-$9.00)
~Did not streak, but again this depends on application
~Did not stain clothes

CONS:
~Tan was not as good as with the foam
~Much more difficult to apply compared to the foam
~Very thick
~Color was not buildable
~Firming? Yeah right....
~Not moisturizing at all...in fact I felt like it dried my skin
~Did not give a deep tan

OVERALL VERDICT: If you prefer a lotion application, then you will like this better than the foam. I did not like this at all. It was hard to apply because it was so thick. It dried my skin and didn't give me the tan I'd hoped for. Maybe the non-firming lotions are better....

Vita Liberata pHenomenal 2-3 Week Tan Mousse

PROS:
~Gives an instant, immediate tan (It really was awesome....IMMEDIATE color)
~Tan lasts longer than drugstore brands
~Easy application with mitt sold seperately
~Tan builds quickly
~Very natural, deep colored tan
~Tolerable scent
~Available in different shades

CONS:
~Poor instructions....you MUST rinse it off between applications
~Tan does NOT last 2-3 weeks as described
~For best results, you must use a tan mitt, sold seperately
~Will stain your hands if you don't use the mitt...and the mitt actually leaks through onto your hands
~MUST be careful around knees/elbows or you will leave dark stains
~Stained my clothes, bed sheets, pajamas, even after rinsing it off
~Due to the poor instructions, I did not rinse the product off the first time I applied it...we went to the circus....I sweat like a pig in the hot circus arena and it stained my white shirt SO BAD, but a pro here is that it completely washed out! I was AMAZED that it came out! So that's a pro I guess, but it's a con that the instructions were so bad that this occurred....
~EXPENSIVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! $54.00!!!!!!!!!!!!

OVERALL VERDICT: I loved the immediate tan. It was natural and dark. Very buildable. I felt like I had to use a lot of the product, though, each time I applied it, and at this price, that's not good. You MUST have the mitt. Don't try to use your hands and wash it off. That's not possible. I was stoked that it came out of my shirt (it was a pretty expensive Wildfox tee...I was livid when it ran all over the shirt...but it is good as new now.) It didn't come out of my bed sheets or pajamas though. Not sure if I used stain remover on the shirt and not the other things as I wasn't as worried about it coming out of them. It doesn't last 2-3 weeks. That's absurd anyway as your skin exfoliates itself everyday. Not sure how they can claim it lasts that long. This is a fairly new product in the US and when I returned it (yep....I took it back....too expensive and it was taking too much product to keep the tan up...) the Sephora chick didn't have anything good to say about this product and also reiterated my "your skin exfoliates itself" thing, too. She said they'd all gotten a sample of it and none of them had even tried it. They all stuck with their St. Tropez tanner....my next review.

St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse

PROS:
~Natural, buildable tan
~Smells like roses when applying (turns into self tanner smell later)
~Fairly easy application with mitt, sold seperately
~Well known product with great reviews
~Available in different shades
~Better instructions than Vita Liberata
~Highly recommended by youtube and blogger gurus

CONS:
~Did not give an immediate tan, but it did give a natural, buildable color
~Must use the mitt to apply as to avoid staining your hands
~Not as smooth of an application as other mousses I've used
~STAINS! If you don't rinse it off, it will stain your clothes and it DOES NOT WASH OUT! I forgot to rinse it off, went to Crossfit, and it bled all over my sports bra and did not wash out, even after several washes and several stain removers.
~You must REALLY rinse it off well.....any trace amount left on you will stain your clothes (I felt like the Vita Liberata rinsed off much better than this)
~Smells good when applying, but as the day progresses, begins to smell like self tanner...the worst of all I tried...even after rinsing it off
~Did not give me as dark a tan as the Vita Liberata, even with consecutive applications
~Expensive (around $45.00)

OVERALL VERDICT: This is probably my favorite of all of them, even though it stained more. I think I like it because it didn't take as much product to cover my entire body, thus saving money in the long run because I won't have to purchase as often. It has a greenish tint to it, which doesn't show up on your skin. The sales girl said that was to give a more natural tan. It does give me a more olive toned tan. It's not as bronze as the others, but I think this makes it more natural, as she said. It is expensive, but you really get what you pay for when it comes to tanners. The mitt was better quality than the Vita Liberata. It didn't leak through to my hands like theirs did. The mitt is a must have if you choose this. St. Tropez also has a lot of different products you can find on the Sephora site.

St. Tropez One Night Only Instant Glow Body Lotion

PROS:
~Gives an instant, immediate tan
~Rinses off completely in the shower (hence the name....)
~Wonderful if you just want a tan for a special night out or event
~Inexpensive ($18.00)
~No scent (I've read some reviews that said it smelled bad...maybe they've changed the formula since then because it had no smell to me)
~Dries quickly (so apply it in small amounts at a time)
~Did not come off on clothes (however...I didn't sweat with it on....I feel personally that it would streak if you wore it and got really hot and sweaty or if you got caught in the rain...I haven't experienced either of those scenarios...just my opinion)

CONS:
~Could possibly transfer onto clothes, furniture, etc if you get wet or sweat
~Can be streaky if you aren't careful
~Dries very quickly which can be a bad thing if you don't blend it well

OVERALL VERDICT:  This would be a great product for someone who needs an immediate tan for an event or a date, but I'm leery that it would transfer onto clothes and streak if you sweat or get wet. So...use it in winter I guess. LOL


I hope you enjoyed this. I'd love to hear your opinions on these and other self tanners!

XOXO, Jenn

Birchbox July 2013 Review

Hi! I think I missed a review or two last month. I ended my Julep Maven subscription because I already have too many nail polishes, and I wasn't loving the texture/application of their polishes. I was only excited about the candy I got in the box...and over $20 for 3 pieces of taffy was really not in my best interest. LOL I don't think I reviewed all my subs last month (Birchbox, Ipsy, Glossybox) but I'll do better this month! So, here we go....July Birchbox! All pictures credited to the Birchbox website. If you're interested in joining Birchbox for $10 a month, follow this link to bypass the waiting list!

Benta Berry G-1Moisturizing Face Cream

This is a product from France that is used to moisturize and mattify your skin. You can use it before applying your make up or alone to help reduce oil. It is for both men and women as it has no tint, but it does have a yummy berry scent to it! I absolutely LOVE the smell!!!! It claims to help regulate your skin's oil level. I found that it performed like many of my other mattifying moisturizers, but it smells so much better! It made my skin feel soft and silky. You can purchase the full size, which is 30 ml, for $22.00 here on Birchbox's website.

Eyeko Skinny Liquid Eyeliner

I've not been much of a liquid liner type of girl...I prefer kohl pencils or gel pots, but I might be changing my mind after this product. It applied a perfect think line of liner, which I find difficult to do with pencils or gels. This is great for a simple, think, non-dramatic line of eyeliner. My only complaint was that it was difficult to apply to my lower lashes as it is not waterproof. It was like any typical pen type liner and just would not show up if there was any water under my eye. The description says it is fade proof, but I have to disagree. I felt like I needed to reapply it after a few hours. I received black, but it also comes in fun colors like olive, turquoise, purple, and navy. I might purchase some of the fun colors to use as accents when wearing fun shadows. You can purchase this product for $16.00 here.

Kerastase Masque Chroma Captive - Treat 

I thought I had received two foil packets by mistake but when I looked at the sample box picture on Birchbox's website, I noticed there were two on there. This product is a 10 minute conditioning treatment you apply after shampooing/conditioning your hair. You rinse the product out with warm water, then blast your hair with cold water to seal in the shine. (If you didn't know.....you should always rinse your hair with cool/cold water just before getting out of the shower to help close the hair follicles. It really does help your hair. I've been doing it for years!)  It is specially designed to help the health of color treated hair and to extend the life of your color. This smells so good and I can tell that it makes my hair softer, but I am not sure if I'm sold on the product, especially with the $61.00 price tag!!! Ouch! I spend a lot of money on hair products because if you're going to color treat your hair, you want it to last and stay healthy! I'm just not sure I'm completely sold on this product. You can purchase this product here.

Marcelle BB Cream Golden Glow

Sorry it says "EXCLUSIVE" on the pic....it's directly from the Birchbox website and I'm too lazy to crop it. LOL  This was the product I was most excited about when I opened my box!!!!! I currently use a BB cream by Tarte which I LOVE, and I've recently started adding a few pumps of Josie Maran Argan Illuminizer and mixing it up and applying it to my face, and I LOVE it, too. It gives my skin a beautiful glow and I have gotten so many compliments on my skin since I've added the illumizer, most notably from my mom who never notices anything like that...haha. So, when I saw this product, which is a BB cream AND an illuminizer in one, I was overjoyed!!! It only comes in one universal shade, so that may be a problem for those with really light or really dark skintones. Hopefully they might start making different shades. This product was perfect for my skintone, and it made my skin dewy and fresh looking. This could possibly be an all in one product that may take the place of my two step regimen I'm currently using. The Tarte BB cream seems to have more benefits (SPF 30 to just name one...) than this Marcelle BB cream, but it really is a wonderful product that lasted all day, even in the heat! You can buy this product here for $27.00. If you're looking for light coverage with a golden, dewy look, then you should really try this out. I highly recommend it. (But I also highly recommend the Tarte BB cream and Josie Maran Illuminizer...)

Birchbox Bobby Pins

Again with the "EXCLUSIVE" on top..... I received the white bobby pins. They suck. The end. Okay, not the end...but I didn't like these at all. They are too thick and hard to put in your hair. I wore one yesterday to hold my bangs back (I'm growing them out) and I had to put in a regular bobby pin to actually hold my hair and just use this one as decoration. I was not pleased with these. They're kind of cute, but not worth $6.00.  If you love them, here they are.

Well, that's it for my July Birchbox. If you want to join and receive awesome samples for just $10.00 a month, follow this link to bypass the waiting list! If you just try to join by going to the website you will be put on a waiting list, so it is easiest to just follow this link which is my invitation to you! If you're already a member, don't forget to review your products each month for Birchbox points that earn you CASH for products from the site!!! It's free money, people!

Oh, and a side note.....I am considering canceling some of my subs and joining the Popsugar Must Have Box sub. I've seen a few reviews, and they were OVER THE TOP awesome. The last review I saw had over $200 worth of products inside!!! It had the sequel to "The Devil Wears Prada" novel in hardback, some awesome looking popcorn, a scarf.....it was fantastic. I really want it!!! It's $35.00 a month...so that's why I'd be letting go of my other boxes. I sort of feel like I'm getting the same products/brands over and over with Ipsy and Birchbox. I am going to see how my Ipsy bag looks this month before I make the decision to cancel. I wish I hadn't signed up for a 6 month sub of Glossybox. It's probably my least favorite of them all. I won't be re-subbing to it when my 6 months is up. Just a heads up to my friends who read this for the current subscriptions.

XOXO, Jenn

Links to my other monthly subs to bypass the waiting lists:

Ipsy

Glossybox (If you are interested in a Glossybox subscription and want to bypass the wait, please leave me a comment here, through facebook, via email, or text me if we're buds :) with your email address and I can send you a direct invitation! This just leads you to the general sub page.)

June Glossybox

I'm posting this from my phone so I have no idea how this will turn out so bear with me. Let's just start. I can't post links with my iPhone so ill have to go back later & edit from my computer. 

Oscar de la Renta Perfume Sample Bag

I haven't tried all the fragrances, but the few I did try smelled great. Crisp, clean, & refreshing. The full sizes of each are $150. A little pricey for my taste. 

c.Booth Honey Almond Dry Oil Mist

I sprayed this first on my face. Big mistake as oily as I am. I thought it was a face spray, and it is, but it can also be used as a body mist. I loved it on my legs and arms. It gave me a dewy, shiny look. The smell is delicious as well. The full size product is $8 for 4 fluid ounces.  Not sure this is something I would purchase as I really am more of a lotion gal. 

Philip B Shampoo

No conditioner to go with it. Boo. But I tried this shampoo last night & it really had no scent whatsoever. If you're the type who likes unscented shampoo, then this is for you. It made my hair soft & really clean feeling. No price was listed on the card included with the box, so I will have to google it & add it later. 

SpaRitual Favorites Nail Polish

I'd been looking literally the day before for an oxblood colored polish & imagine my surprise when I received one in my box! Not sure about the formula. I painted my toes & it really went on like cheap polish. It wasn't very glossy, & I really like my polish to have the glossy wet look. Even after a topcoat there wasn't much gloss. For the price of $12, I don't know if I will be purchasing this brand. 

Tarte Complexion Enhancing Lipstick 

This was an interesting product. The center have off a pink tone and the outside was nude. It didn't really blend. It claims to give the look of fuller looking lips. I think the nude is supposed to react with your lips to create a unique look. I wasn't really sold on this as I thought the pink and nude together made me look weird. It retails for $14.50. 

Well, that's my June Glossy Box. I'm sorry I haven't reviewed my June Ipsy Bag. I honestly just forgot. I may do a quick review later today of it before my July bag gets here. Thanks for reading. 

XOXO Jenni D