For one week only, ULTA.com is offering an exciting deal - 20% off your ENTIRE purchase (not just one item)! To take advantage, all you need to do is enter promo code 95848 at checkout, and you'll receive your discount.
The great thing is that this offer includes many prestige brands that are often left out of ULTA's other discounts, such as Too Faced!
Enjoy and happy shopping! But remember, this deal ends September 6!
Budget Deals: ULTA.com 20% Off Entire Purchase
NOTD: OPI We'll Always Have Paris
Today, my mother and I treated ourselves to a professional manicure for the first time in months. Between being busy and having little money, it seems like a luxury only few can afford on a consistent basis. But we had a great time, and now I have a perfect manicure!
Our adorable manicurist, Dani, filed down my natural nails quite a bit for a shorter look (by request of my mother) and painted them in one of the shades from the exciting new OPI France Collection. My color of choice is called We'll Always Have Paris. While it appears to be a gorgeous ruby with some purple hues in the bottle, it comes out much darker on my nails with only two coats! Still a fantastic fall color, though perhaps better suited for shorter nails.
Here's a look at Dani's handiwork:
OPI Collection de France in We'll Always Have Paris
I look forward to trying the rest of this collection... such beautiful shades!
Review: Broadway Nails Real Life French Nail Kit
The other day, I received a set of false nails to try out. It was a little strange for me, because I've never in my life worn fake nails (I don't need them), but I decided to give them a shot - after all, I did break a nail a few weeks back and thought this might be a good replacement.
In the end, I wasn't able to use these nails due to a few technical problems. However, I've decided to review them anyway in order to give some insight as to why they didn't work for me and what could be improved.
Below is my incomplete "review" of the Broadway Nails Real Life French Nail Kit.
Product Description:
• 24 Glue-On Nails
• Self Tab for easy application.
• Every day nails for every day tasks.
• 24 French Nails with Self Tabs
• Twist-Off Pink Gel Glue 2 gm/0.07 oz
• Glue Stand
• Manicure Stick
• Mini File
Results: These nails claim to create a natural French manicure look, and offer two different lengths - short and real short. I received a kit of the real short nails, which caused the first problem on my end. I have a nail bed that is longer than average, so I knew there was no way the kit would fit me length-wise. Fortunately, they do sell a kit that is best for longer nail beds, which I would definitely consider trying! The set also includes a mini file, glue, and a manicure stick, and comes in a variety of shades.
One great feature is that because the nails are so short, each includes a convenient tab for easy control and hold while applying. They snap off easily and leave nothing behind except a natural, smooth edge.
As for the colors of the nails, they look a little too pink, and did not match my real nail bed very well.
Aside from being too short, some of the nails are also too wide for me, while others seem to be perfect in width. Personally, I don't see wide nail beds very often and think it looks unnatural. In addition, these nails carry one of the biggest issues in many fake nails: the tips start too far back. They aren't as bad as others that may start half-way down the nail bed and look ridiculous, but I still think more length before the tips would be more natural-looking.
The kit also claims to last up to 10 days, which I wasn't able to test because I couldn't apply the nails personally.
Overall I'd give this kit an average rating. The nails look more or less natural, but simply didn't work for me as far as color, length, and width, so I couldn't review them while wearing them. Because of this, I also wasn't able to see how good the wear was or how long they lasted.
You'll like this product if: You have a short nail bed, you're looking for a natural-looking and less damaging alternative to acrilyics or gels
You won't like this product if: You have a long, narrow nail bed, you have any kind of natural nail already, you don't want to risk damaging your real nails
Rating: None (I didn't feel a rating would be justified because I could not actually try the product personally.)
Check out more reviews of this product on Total Beauty!
Check out more reviews of this product on Total Beauty!
Beauty Deals: Free Zoya Nail Polish
Want to try Zoya nail polish for absolutely FREE? Zoya.com is giving you the chance! Check out this seriously amazing offer!
All you have to do is check out zoya.com and add ANY nail polish to your shopping cart. Next, enter code LUVZOYA in the coupon box and click "update." Guess what? A $6 credit will appear, giving you your polish for free! All you have to do is pay for shipping.
This exciting offer expires on September 1, 2008, so don't wait - get your free Zoya nail polish now!!
DIB: Stila Kitten vs. Wet n Wild Paradise Cove
While I love the Stila eyeshadow in Kitten I received for my birthday, I couldn't shake the feeling that I had a very close duplicate in my collection somewhere already. After searching through my makeup, I found what I was looking for - my Wet n Wild Ultimate Expressions Eyeshadow Palette in Paradise Cove!
I've posted about this palette before, but it remains one of my favorites. It includes eight shimmery, blendable, beautiful shades that are naturally flattering on most eyes and include some great colors. Once I swatched the two lightest beige shades on my arm, I knew I'd found my match!
The best part about this dupe? You can find the entire palette for a mere $4.99 in drugstores, as opposed to Stila's Kitten for nearly $20. And it looks just as gorgeous!
The photo here doesn't do the colors much justice, because they're even more similar in real life... but to give you an idea, take a look! Can you guess which shades are which without looking at the description below?
Swatches:
Left to Right: Wet n Wild Paradise Cove (dark beige), Stila Kitten, Wet n Wild Paradise Cove (light beige)
Left to Right: Wet n Wild Paradise Cove (dark beige), Stila Kitten, Wet n Wild Paradise Cove (light beige)As you can see, all three colors are very similar - especially Kitten and the WnW light beige! All three are beautiful, but two are extremely affordable as well.
Happy budget beauty shopping! :)
Happy budget beauty shopping! :)
Forever 21 Labor Day Sale
Looking to stock up on some great fall fashions for cheap? Look no further than one of my favorite stores, Forever 21 -from now through September 1, you'll find tons of great in-store deals! Selected items are 25-50% off, with more savings throughout the store.
Go back to school in style and save this Labor Day weekend. I'm heading to the mall today!
Recipe of the Week: Pink Sunset Multi-Purpose Powder
Hello beauties, and welcome to another great recipe of the week! What's on the menu today? It's an exciting way to make your own makeup product using simple ingredients - colored mica powder. Enjoy the recipe for the Pink Sunset Multi-Purpose Powder! It's fantastic and I know you'll love it!
This is a lovely shimmering mineral powder that can be applied as a sheer eyeshadow or blush, mixed into a clear gloss, or nail polish, or used to color bath and body products.
The recipe is presented in ratios or "parts". You can use any measuring utensil to represent the ratio of "1", such as a 1/4 teaspoon for personal batches, or a tablespoon for a larger formula. For example, in this recipe if 1 part is a teaspoon, then 1/2 part is 1/2 teaspoon.
Yield: varies
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Price Category: 1
Difficulty Level: 1
Shelf Life: Indefinite
Ingredients:
1 part Splendid Red Mica
1 part Bordeaux Mica
1/2 part Gold Fine Mica
Blending Procedure:
- Use a clean coffee grinder for medium batches, or a mini-grinder for personal batches. Measure the mica pigments into the grinder and blend for about one minute.
- Open up the grinder and check to see if the pigments are completely blended together. If not, shake the grinder to dislodge any pigments that may have gotten under the blades, and grind again for at least a minute.
- Once the product is completely blended, place a large batch into a small plastic storage container and label it with the date and name.
- When choosing a cosmetic container, use one that includes a sifter. This prevents the product from spilling if dropped. You can seal the product by placing a clear sticker over the holes of the sifter.
- If the product is for sale or a gift, label the bottom of the jar with the ingredients in order of predominance, the state and country in which it was manufactured and the weight.
- Place a pretty label on the top with your logo, or a design, and voila, you're done!
Luckily, this recipe has an indefinite shelf life and can be used again and again! Even so, keep it away from moisture and seal it tightly to prevent spills and accidents.
See you back here next week!
Recipe(s) reprinted with the permission of www.MakeYourCosmetics.com. For hundreds more recipes in several categories (like scrubs, powders, baby products, creams, balms and soaps), plus suppliers for the ingredients to make them, visit www.MakeYourCosmetics.com today!
Back to School
Sadly, it's time for this bee to go back to school for a new year. I've had a ton of fun this summer blogging like crazy, but unfortunately, I won't be able to keep up such a fast pace during the semester. (I really need to focus on my major!)
Of course I'll still be writing as much as possible, but it won't be the same while I'm going to school full-time and working part-time. I hope everyone understands. :)
In the meantime, I'll be working on some exciting new fall features, looks, reviews, and more. Bear with me and my busy schedule, and please keep lending me your support!
Thanks so much!
xoxo,
JennBee
Review: Physicians Formula Organic Wear Tinted Moisturizer
A while back, I answered a reader's question about reviewing more products that are both friendly for the budget and the environment. In my quest to do just this, I've begun investing in a few eco-friendly products, specifically from brands like Physicians Formula.
Here's a detailed look at the Physicians Formula Organic Wear Tinted Moisturizer, a fabulous product for your budget, your skin, and the environment!
Product Description:
- Lightweight tinted moisturizer hydrates skin and evens out skin tone with sheer and natural coverage.
- Infused with Organic Fruit Water to help nourish and restore skin’s moisture balance.
- SPF 15 naturally protects skin from environmental damage for a healthy-looking complexion.
- A 100% natural origin tinted moisturizer, formulated with 80% certified organic ingredients, including jojoba seed oil, sunflower seed oil, avocado oil, and shea butter to moisturize the skin.
- Available in 4 shades.
Other: 100% Free of Harsh Chemicals. 100% Free of Synthetic Preservatives. 100% Free of Parabens. 100% Free of GMO's. 100% Free of Synthetic Colors. 100% Free of Synthetic Fragrances. 100% Cruelty Free.
I was a little wary when buying and trying this product, because I had heard this line had some real duds - but the tinted moisturizer, I found, is definitely an exception!
The packaging is simple enough; a squeeze tube that should be shaken well before each use. The consistency is a little more like a liquid than I expected, but I wasn't bothered by it because it really seemed to help it blend into and glide over my skin effortlessly.
This makeup has a scent I really enjoy, but which might bother some. The best way I can describe it is a combination of citrus and wood scents; like tea tree, orange, and lavender together.
The shade I chose was just about perfect for me. While it appeared a little dark on my hand, it blended into my fair skin easily and left no streaks, whether I used a damp sponge or my fingers to blend. I personally prefer to use a damp sponge so the oils don't transfer from my fingers to my face, however, and doing this seems to leave a smoother finish.
The natural oils and other ingredients in the formula create a soft, semi-matte, semi-dewy finish on the skin, but are probably not appropriate for oily or very oily types. I found the formula fine for my combination skin, but towards the end of some trial days, I did need to use either a little dust of powder or blotting paper on my T-zone due to a combination of the oils and the extreme summer heat (though this happens with any makeup I use).
The wear seems fine, and I noticed no other issues with streaking or fading throughout the day, which was a major plus. My skin continued to feel soft and conditioned, without getting extremely dry or oily. This product also helped conceal my redness and imperfections without looking or feeling cakey or heavy.
Aside from the problems with my T-zone, I really can't think of any major cons! Overall this seems like a great choice for a tinted moisturizer, especially one that is organic, pure, and free of harsh chemicals, parabens, fragrances, and other nasty extras and fillers. The value is good, the wear is great (though not best for oily skin), and the ingredients and packaging are eco-friendly. You only need to be wary of the scent and the potential problems for oily to very oily skin types.
You'll like this product if: You're looking for an eco-friendly tinted moisturizer, you don't have oily skin, you aren't picky about fragrance or texture, you want a basic tinted moisturizer that does the job, you want sun protection
You won't like this product if: You prefer a thicker consistency in your liquid moisturizer, you have oily or very oily skin, your skin reacts poorly to natural ingredients
Rating: 4/5
Birthday Beauty Haul
Thank you to everyone who wished me a happy birthday - it really made my day! (It was on the 20th, by the way. ;) I had an amazing time, and received some even more amazing gifts from my boyfriend and his family! I've been eager to share what I got, so without further ado, here's my beautiful birthday haul!
Neutrogena Healthy Skin Rejuvenator
This item is a must-have for me - an at-home microdermabrasion kit! It's a little pricy for a drugstore item, but claims to be even more effective than professional treatments. We'll see how true that is!
Estée Lauder pleasures exotic Eau de Parfum Spray
This beautiful fragrance combines notes of mango passion fruit cocktail, pink grapefruit, hibiscus, bougainvillea, and other delightful fruity and floral scents to create a fun, tropical blend. It's flirty, fun, and casual, and I love wearing it out!
Earth Therapeutics Slumber Party KitThis set is such a great idea for me because I've been having a hard time sleeping lately! It's from a brand I hadn't heard of before, but I love it already. The kit includes an eye compress, sleep mask, comforting lotion, and pillow mist to help you relax, get to sleep, and stay asleep. What a fantastic idea! I feel it's helped me already.
Shu Uemura Eyelash CurlerI finally have a great eyelash curler?! It's true! I wondered what all the hype was about with this one, but so far, I've been very impressed. No more pinching, tugging, or struggling while curling my lashes - and they're perfect the first time. Love it! I wonder if a budget equivalent exists right now? If so, I want to find it!
OPI Nail Lacquer in Yoga-ta Get This Blue and Royal Rajah Ruby
Two super-gorgeous shades of blue and red from the OPI India collection. The deep blue is a perfect shimmery sapphire, and the red is a rich, dark burgundy that I adore. I'll be sporting both these shades eventually in Nail of the Day features, so look for those soon!
Best of Stila SetThis amazing set has been on my wishlist for months and is permanently sold out at nearly every ULTA, including online! It includes full-size versions of Stila's best products - illuminating tinted moisturizer, convertible lip and cheek color, convertible eye color, lip glaze, mascara, and Kitten eyeshadow! I can't wait to play with all this.
Thanks for letting me share my little haul. I know, it's a little sad that I did not receive a lot of actual makeup! But I love everything, and that's what counts. :) I had a fantastic day!
Preview: J.Lynne Cosmetics Samples
Hi everyone! I just wanted to share that I've received some great product samples to try from J.Lynne Cosmetics! This wonderful mineral makeup line is based right in my home state and is free of all synthetic ingredients, preservatives, and fillers - including bismuth, for you sensitive-skinned girls! That's right, this is a truly pure mineral makeup brand!
Here's the package I received with my sample order:
I have several samples of foundations, shadows, liners, and glosses that I'll be reviewing in full very soon. I'm incredibly excited, so stick around to see what these products are all about!
Cherry Culture End of Summer Sale
Want to stock up on your NYX round lipsticks, Jelly Pong Pong, or SUGAR cosmetics? Go to town with Cherry Culture's End of Summer Sale! For four days only (August 21-24), you'll receive 20% off your entire order!
Just use code EOS20 at checkout.
In addition, enjoy free shipping on orders of $40 or more. Happy shopping!
Hard Candy 75% Off Sale
Have you been dying to get your hands on some Hard Candy cosmetics? Now is the best time to do it - their website is currently having an amazing sale! You'll receive 75% off on your entire order, no code required!
Go ahead and indulge your sweet tooth by clicking above to start shopping. With the already low prices and the new discount, you'll be getting some great makeup for almost nothing! But hurry, supplies might not last as long as you think with this kind of sale...
Urban Decay Family & Friends Discount Event
For one week only, August 19-28, you can recieve 30% off everything at Urban Decay online by using code FFL30 at checkout! Be sure to take advantage of this great offer while you can - events like this don't come along very often!
I know I'll want to stock up on some shadows and my primer potion! My favorite shades are Honey, Shag and Scratch - what are yours?
Birthday Break
Hi everyone! I know that updates have been a little more sparse than usual lately, and I apologize. I've been busy working, getting ready for school, and preparing for my birthday.
I'll be gone for 2-3 days starting today for this year's festivities (camping and sight-seeing up north!!), but don't worry, I'll be back to posting soon!
Thanks for your patience and support. See you soon!
Recipe of the Week: Sunburn Twister
Welcome to another great recipe of the week! This a fantastic and natural way to soothe your sunburn. It works great, and is very easy to make. Most people have all of these products in their kitchens!
Have fun, and remember to use plenty of sunscreen!
Yield: enough for several mildly sunburnt areas of skinPrep Time: 3 minutes
Price Category: 1
Difficulty Level: 1
Shelf Life: None, keep refrigerated
Ingredients:
5 tablespoons aloe vera juice
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
3 teaspoons sugar
1.5 teaspoons plain yogurt
small amount corn starch (if needed to thicken)
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
3 teaspoons sugar
1.5 teaspoons plain yogurt
small amount corn starch (if needed to thicken)
Blending Procedure:
- Mix the aloe vera juice and the egg together using a wire whisk or fork. Blend evenly but not until it becomes watery.
- Mix in the sugar, beating it lightly to dissolve it and incorporate it evenly throughout the mixture. Set aside.
- In a seperate bowl beat the yogurt until it is very thin, then add it to the rest of the ingredients. If the mixture is too runny to spread on the skin and stay without running, add a bit of corn starch to thicken it. Place the mixture in the refregerator to chill.
- To use, spread the mixture onto a patch of burned skin. Leave on for as long as you like, then rinse with warm water and a soft cloth. Enjoy the naturally cooling sensation on your sunburn!
Always remember to seal your mixtures tightly and keep them away from moisture to prevent unwanted bacterial growth! Some recipes can last a very long time if you prevent contamination and use clean hands when handling.
Recipe(s) reprinted with the permission of www.MakeYourCosmetics.com. For hundreds more recipes in several categories (like scrubs, powders, baby products, creams, balms and soaps), plus suppliers for the ingredients to make them, visit www.MakeYourCosmetics.com today!
Olay Regenerist Bonus Packs
While window shopping at my local CVS/pharmacy this evening, I discovered a great find from Olay Regenerist! At certain drugstores, you can now find bonus packs that include two products for one great low price!
The packages look a little something like this. The particular bonus pack I received had both the Olay Regenerist Daily Regenerating Cleanser and the Olay Regenerist Daily Regenerating Serum for only $18.99 - a fantastic value, since the serum and facial cleanser when bought separately would equal about $26!
In addition, with a CVS card, you can get the pack with a $2 discount... making the total price about $16.99. Fabulous, isn't it?
Let me know if you happen upon these great deals or any others yourself!
Free Shipping and Samples at ULTA.com
Now through August 23, you can receive FREE standard shipping on any order of $25 or more! Use code FREE25A1 at checkout to get this offer when you purchase online.
In addition, you can choose any three samples for free with any online purchase!
Don't forget to use your $3.50 off coupon, too - code 94539 at checkout.
Maybelline The Colossal Volum' Express Mascara Giveaway Winners
Happy Friday, everyone! Today is the day three ladies will wake up to find out they've got free mascara coming to them. I hope you enjoyed the contest as much as I did!
I seriously can't believe how many entries there were in this giveaway - 136!! I'm glad I wasn't the one picking the winners... it was done at random by computer, just so you know. Thanks to everyone who entered!
If your name is Jennifer T., Beth Ann F., or Gaye M., check your inbox for a special e-mail from me! If I don't hear from you ladies in a week, I'll be forced to forfeit your prize and hand it off to the next random winner.
A huge thanks again to everyone who entered. I'll be sure to keep you posted on new contests in the future, so check back once in a while and say hello!
Maybelline Mascara Giveaway Reminder
Have you entered the most recent giveaway yet? By the looks of it, you already might! But just in case, here's a friendly reminder.
I'm giving away three of the new Maybelline The Colossal Volum' Express Mascaras, one of my new favorite products. You can win one for yourself by heading here and filling out the form with your name and e-mail address.
The deadline is tonight at midnight (12 AM EDT/9 PM PST), so don't delay! You still have a few hours left!
ULTA Gift of Color Collection
ULTA has released yet another great color collection, called the Gift of Color set. This stunning collection includes all the essentials and then some, from shadows and lip colors to brushes and nail lacquers.
Included in this beautiful new 65-piece set, you will find:
• 20 eyeshadows
• 12 lipcolors
• 2 blushes
• 1 translucent powder
• 1 bronzer
• 2 lip glosses
• 3 eyeshadow palettes
• 4 nail lacquers
• 4 lipsticks
• 2 lipliners
• 2 eyeliners
• 3 lip brushes
• 1 blush brush
• 1 angled eyeshadow brush
• 1 small eyeshadow brush
It looks just as good as the spring set, but with a few less shadows and more accessories! I love the arrangement of the colors as well, and can't wait to try this. Don't wait too long to get yours, though - it's already sold out online!
This set can be bought for $19.99, which is a great price for the value!
Got your hands on it already? Let me know how you like it!
Recipe of the Week: Lemon Honey Sugar Hand Scrub
Monday always seems to come so fast... it feels like I'm posting recipes every few days! Not that I mind, because I'm having lots of fun with them - aren't you? I'm a little behind in reviewing last week's recipe, but I haven't had the time to shop for canola oil yet. :)
This week's recipe is for a delectable Lemon Honey Sugar Hand Scrub. Exfoliating, conditioning, and nourishing, this recipe aims to do it all for dry, rough hands. I can't wait to try it out for myself!
As usual, check back later for my review... and stay beautiful!
Apply this mixture to clean hands, and nourish and exfoliate at the same time! It's also a great cuticle softener, and the zesty lemon oil will help freshen your nail bed.
Yield: 1 application
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Price Category: 1
Difficulty Level: 1
Shelf Life: None, keep refrigerated
Ingredients:
1 small egg yolk
1 teaspoon honey
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon sugar (or brown sugar if you prefer)
2 drops lemon essential oil
Blending Procedure:
- Place egg yolk in a small bowl and stir to break up. Add honey and oil and stir well to combine.
- Add the sugar, and stir well. Add the essential oil last, and stir to mix.
- To use, massage into clean, damp hands. Be sure to massage between your fingers and around the nail bed and cuticle. Allow Honey Sugar Hand Scrub to remain on the skin for about 5 minutes. Rinse well with warm water and follow with soothing moisturizer of your choice. Enjoy!!
Always remember to seal your mixtures tightly and keep them away from moisture to prevent unwanted bacterial growth! Some recipes can last a very long time if you prevent contamination and use clean hands when handling.
Because you're using all-fresh ingredients, try not to make this one until you're ready to use it.
See you next week!
Recipe(s) reprinted with the permission of www.MakeYourCosmetics.com. For hundreds more recipes in several categories (like scrubs, powders, baby products, creams, balms and soaps), plus suppliers for the ingredients to make them, visit www.MakeYourCosmetics.com today!
First Look: AquaCurrent Science
What's all the buzz about at Procter & Gamble Beauty lately?
It's called AquaCurrent Science, a breakthrough in moisture retention which is being incorporated into many of P&G's products from CoverGirl, Pantene, Olay, and Secret. This breakthrough is a new approach to moisturization that consists of maximizing water movement across the skin and hair through several key ingredients such as niacinamide, glycerin, petrolatum, silicones, and others. It may sound fancy, but basically means that moisture is efficiently delivered where you need it, when you need it.
One such product that uses AquaCurrent Science is CoverGirl CG Smoothers AquaSmooth Compact Foundation ($9), a hydrating makeup product that changes from solid to liquid when pressure is applied, then dries from liquid to powder as it is applied to the skin. Along with the new technology that pulls moisture to the skin, it provides the benefits of ingredients such as vitamins B and E, as well as an SPF of 15. Here is what CoverGirl has to say about the product on its website:
"Designed with AquaCurrent Science, this vitamin-enriched formula directs moisture to your skin's surface to improve its condition over time, while giving smooth, even coverage that makes imperfections virtually vanish before your eyes. This solid makeup transforms into a liquid during application, then dries to an even, powder-light finish."
Other items invented with AquaCurrent Science include Olay Regenerist, Quench, and Ribbons Body Wash products, the Pantene Beautiful Lengths Collection, and Secret Flawless Touch with Olay products.
Look for these products newly released and redesigned with AquaCurrent Science, available now in stores everywhere, or stay tuned here for more updates!
For a limited time, you can also receive free shipping on $15 of AquaCurrent Science products at drugstore.com.
Read the entire article from Women's Wear Daily here, and visit the AquaCurrent Science website to learn more.
Image: aquacurrentscience.com, covergirl.com
Asking You About... Discontinued Products
Today, I was surfing CoverGirl's website and doing some typical research when I stumbled on their Discontinued Products page in search of possible clearance items. When I clicked on the face product category, my jaw dropped: the TruBlend Liquid Makeup has been discontinued.
My CoverGirl TruBlend Liquid Makeup? Discontinued? I could practically feel my heart breaking!
Now, I'm not sure if this means the products in the old packaging have been discontinued, or if the product has been discontinued altogether - but either way, I'm worried. I also find it odd that the product is still being advertised, while they claim that it is no longer being made. While the replacement for this product is the TruBlend Whipped Foundation, I know nothing could ever replace the original.
How do you feel about discontinued products? Has something you really loved ever been discontinued? If so, what?
Don't you wish the beauty companies could keep our favorite products around forever? I know I'm running out to stock up ASAP! I'm sure some of you girls feel my pain!
Total Beauty Web Tour - 8/8/08
Happy weekend, everyone! Here is this week's Total Beauty Web Tour. Want to see what everyone has been up to this week? Look below for tons of tips, giveaways, and more!
Enjoy and be beautiful!
Want perfect brows? Roselyn from Makeup Makes Me Happy is RAVING about the latest goodies from Anastasia Beverly Hills. Check out this fun video she has put together of all her favorite must-haves!
Come check out what hair products The Makeup Divas are raving about.
Beauty Tyrant has found the foundation that can make you 5 years younger!. She'll tell you whether that's a truth or myth
Monique at Beauty Girl Musings tries out the much buzzed about It! Cosmetics Abs in a Box. find out what she thinks!
Beauty Anonymous falls in love with the Trance Deep Eyes Palette from Coffret D'Or Summer 2008 Collection!
Be sure to enter the [comfort zone] giveaway at Fabulous Over Forty
Beauty's SPOT has the exclusive pics of Duffy in NIVEA's new campaign for Fashion Rocks. The pictures will appear this month in Conde Nast's most fabulous titles as they ring in Fashion Week with the fifth annual concert.
Enter to win designer sunglasses from Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog.
Viva Woman looks at what causes your foundation makeup to oxidize and turn darker and how to best prevent it.
Look at what product A Mom in Red High Heels 'borrowed' from her husband and loves! He's not getting it back!
MissWhoever-You-Are has a peek at Harper's Bazaar September Fall issue and it's cover girl Tyra Banks.
How to get Fergie's Bohemian Hair Style with Redken-Talking Makeup.
Product Girl plays with Josie Maran's line and takes a look at her Finger Paints.
Beauty Blogging Junkie is giving away ten bottles of Redken Full Frame 07 Protective Volumizing Mousse! Enter here to win.
Beauty411 shares her new secret weapon to phenomenal fluttering lashes!
Check out Glossypink's Haute Couture Runway Beauty picks! The Advice Sisters Guide to Life, Success & Happiness Blog --it rocks!
Jenn and Christine at Beauty in Real Life are having another giveaway, 10 readers will win a Tassi. Click here to enter.
The Beauty Alchemist reviews Bond 9's new fragrance Lexington Avenue.
In the spirit of the 2008 Summer Olympics, Spoiled Pretty has teamed up with Beauty Blogging Junkie for some synchronized beauty blogging. These trained beauty athletes are providing readers with a dream team of products expertly culled from their extensive reviews. Find out which products take home the gold.
First Look: Clean & Clear Blackhead Eraser
One of my biggest skincare enemies is blackheads - those little black dots that indicate my pores are clogged beyond recognition and which most of my estheticians can't even touch. So, of course, I'm always searching for new solutions to try and get rid of them... or at least make them look smaller and less apparent. One of my favorite companies appears to have a new solution!
I was excited to hear that Clean & Clear has released a new tool to fight blackheads, the Blackhead Eraser ($19.99). This special water-resistant, vibrating, exfoliating cleanser mechanism has a special blackhead-dissolving serum that works to treat current blackheads while preventing new ones. The tool also exfoliates and softens skin, making it incredibly smooth. All this is done by means that don't harm the skin like traditional methods do, such as harsh scrubbing and manual extractions.
The formula contains 1% salicylic acid and a variety of other ingredients to fight blackheads and keep them away, while the lightly textured cleansing pads provide a deep clean and exfoliation for soft, clear skin and remove dirt and oil that causes blackheads to form in the first place.
In addition, Clean & Clear is offering a coupon for $5 off the Blackhead Eraser when you register on the site! You'll also find coupons for the new SOFT products and more.
Buy 2 Boots Products, Get 1 Free on CVS.com!
Right now on CVS.com through August 15, you can purchase two Boots products and get one FREE! Boots is Britain's beauty expert and the creator of many of its leading brands, and is available at affordable prices on CVS.com.
Take advantage of this great offer through August 15 - and receive free shipping on orders of $50 or more!
The great thing about this offer is that it applies to all Boots products, for an unlimited number of times. If you buy 4 products, you'll get 2 free - 6 gets you 3 free, etc.!
Click the image for more information, or check here to start shopping.
Bare Budget Beauty on Facebook!
That's right - Bare Budget Beauty now has its own Facebook page! The Facebook page will provide another method of keeping up with posts and updates, conversing with myself personally and other members, and discussing the blog. Since everyone and their mothers (literally!) owns a Facebook account by now, I decided this would be a great way for us to come together!
If you'd like to join BBB's Facebook page, just follow this link and become a fan! Then we can finally start talking. :)
I hope the page is a success, and with your help, it will be! :)
Review: Olay Regenerist UV Defense Regenerating Lotion SPF 15
Since I've been using this product for a few months now, I think it's time I reviewed Olay Regenerist UV Regenerating Lotion SPF 15, one of my favorite moisturizers!
This product from the Regenerist line of Olay is meant to repair past damage as well as prevent it with its special ingredients and SPF 15 formula. It includes vitamin E, green tea, niacinamide, glycerin, a vast array of moisturizers, and antioxidants as well as protection from sun damage with avobenzone and titanium dioxide.
Product Description: Perfect for daytime use, Olay Regenerist UV Defense Regenerating Lotion combines the exclusive Olay amino-peptide complex with vitamin C, Olay moisture and UVA/UVB (SPF 15) sunscreen to speed surface cell turnover and enhance skin's condition one cell at a time.This light, non-greasy formula with a light, fresh scent smoothes evenly onto the skin and includes light-bending powders to soften the look of fine lines and wrinkles. -Olay.com
Price: $17.99
Results: I love how non-greasy and light this moisturizer is, which is why I consider it one of the best-feeling in its category. It's a little more liquidy than others I've tried, but it glides over my skin very easily. No matter what time of day I apply (whether or not after a shower or washing my face doesn't matter), it seems to sink in quickly and leaves no type of residue. The included SPF does have the potential to leave your skin a little shiny, so I definitely recommend a bit of powder or foundation layered over it to keep the oily look down. This can happen with any product that features sunscreen, though.
The aforementioned ingredients both help keep skin looking young and repair past damage, though I have so little to speak of that it's hard to measure any results there. My skin did feel smooth and hydrated each time I used it, though, and I imagine the formula does its job of protecting my skin against the sun and free radicals. I've heard the moisturizer is too oily for oily skin types, but I wouldn't say it's moisturizing enough for a heavy-duty winter moisturizer for dry skin, either. I find that it's great for summer and is likely lightweight enough for dry, normal, and combination types of skin.
One small detail that turns me off just a little towards this product is that once in a while, my skin feels lightly sticky directly after application, even if it's absorbed. The good news is that this feeling disappears completely once I apply my makeup, even if it's just a light dusting of powder. Sometimes I don't experience this at all, though, and it might have to do with when I put it on and how much.
My other little issue with the product is the SPF 15 - while 15 is probably a decent SPF for everyday use, I feel the need for something a little stronger in the desert climate. This is a totally personal preference, though, and has little to do with the product itself.
The price is a little steep for a drugstore moisturizer, and I think it should be a bit less expensive (either that or you can purchase equivalents from brands like Equate for a better price), but the amount of product you receive will last you a good few months - up to half a year or so if you're careful. This makes it a decent value, even if it is a big investment.
I would definitely consider repurchasing this product, though mostly for summer and spring. In the winter, I may prefer my Aveeno - but I have yet to try this Olay moisturizer in cold winter weather.
You'll like this product if: You're in search of a light moisturizer, you have dry, normal, or combination skin, you want a formula packed with protective and restorative ingredients
You won't like this product if: You have oily skin, you need a heavy-duty moisturizer for dry skin, you need a stronger SPF
Rating: 4/5
Recipe of the Week: Sweet Eye Makeup Remover
Happy Monday! Welcome back to Recipe of the Week. This week's fab recipe is for a home-made eye makeup remover! It's a little oily, but cleansing your skin after will help if you dislike the feeling of oil on your skin. It's cheap and works just as well as oil eye makeup removers sold in stores.
Enjoy this easy recipe for a Sweet Eye Makeup Remover!
This is a great natural eye makeup remover. Easy to make and easy to use.
Yield: about 3/4 ounce
Prep Time: a few minutes
Price Category: 1
Difficulty Level: 1
Shelf Life: 6 months
1 tablespoon castor oil
1 tablespoon light olive oil
2 teaspoons canola oil
Blending Procedure:
- Blend the above ingredients together and store in a tightly sealed bottle.
- Apply with soft tissue or cottonball to remove makeup around the eyes.
Always remember to seal your mixtures tightly and keep them away from moisture to prevent unwanted bacterial growth! Some recipes can last a very long time if you prevent contamination and use clean hands when handling. Let me know if you make this and how you like it!
See you back here next week with another great recipe! :) Maybe we'll try something a little harder!
Recipe(s) reprinted with the permission of www.MakeYourCosmetics.com. For hundreds more recipes in several categories (like scrubs, powders, baby products, creams, balms and soaps), plus suppliers for the ingredients to make them, visit www.MakeYourCosmetics.com today!
Free ULTA Weekender Bag with Fragrance Purchase
Now at ULTA, while supplies last, you can snag yourself a trendy weekender bag for free! These adorable bags come in white, black, and brown designs, and are big enough to fit everything you need (trust me on that one, they're a great size!).
When you make a fragrance purchase of $30 or more (easy!), you'll receive this bag for free - a $40 value.
Also be sure to check your recent ULTA catalog for the latest on savings in fragrances, hair care and salon services at ULTA, now through the end of August!
Review: Stila Lip Glaze
I was recently able to purchase the Stila Lip Glaze Trio for a special discounted prize on a sale at HauteLook.com, a website with mostly clothing and handbag events. It was a rare treat to find this set for a mere $12, when individually, they sell for $22 each! I was thrilled because I've been wanting to try these for so long.
Did the lip glazes live up to the hype or disappoint? You know what to do... read on to find out! ;)
Product Description: Want lips that get all the attention they deserve? Turn on the shine and you'll be turning heads with stila's most popular lip gloss. Choose from an array of delectable shades that add a splash of color and fabulously matching flavors and scents in one easy click of the famous pen. Cosmetics experts agree-this top seller is an essential addition to any beauty bag. -Stila.comPrice: $22/.08 oz.
Results: Stila Lip Glazes come in the infamous click-style pen dispenser that I usually dislike, because it's almost always done poorly. Too often the product spurts out, gets stuck in the brush and is wasted, doesn't come out at all... you name it. While I've heard these complaints a few times with Stila's lip glaze as well, I only experienced product getting stuck in the brush... which is pretty much inevitable with this kind of packaging. It just seems wasteful to me, and it's bothersome when you pay this much for so little.
The shade selection is wonderful, but some of the colors have a little too much pigment for me, so I prefer the sheerer shades and applying a thinner layer. The scents are absolutely delectable and include a wide range of fruity flavors, from apricot to grapefruit to watermelon. About half of the glosses contain some kind of light shimmer, but it's very subtle and wearable - not overly glittery or colorful.
The glosses apply thickly if you aren't careful, which is another reason I like to apply thinly first and layer if needed. It can be hard if you have the experience of getting too much product in the brush, so click carefully and slowly. It's also slightly sticky, but nothing terrible. I didn't mind the stickiness much. I also discovered that when applied over a balm, the feeling is much less heavy on the lips. They're very shiny, and all the colors are gorgeous-looking! My current favorite is apricot, a light, nude melon with a hint of shimmer.
As far as wear and staying power, they actually seems pretty good for a lip gloss! It won't stick for hours, but when you need a touch-up, you can just click and go - which is fun, I'll admit. :) It seems to wear off nicely, too, leaving a little color and shine on your lips.
Overall, I enjoy the product and admit that it's a good quality lip gloss - but the value is not the greatest. When the math is done, it's essentially a $36/ounce product, which seems crazy for lip gloss. And while you may pay only $22 per gloss, I consider the amount you receive to be very important. And let's face it, you aren't getting much product here. I think what we pay for is the concept and the name.All that being said, I think I'd only repurchase in the case of another sale, or if I found a shade I really adored. Unfortunately, these might not last until then! It's a great gloss, but I just can't see myself shelling out the cash for it at regular price.
You'll like this product if: You don't mind thick glosses or a little stickiness, you aren't on a budget, you enjoy most kinds of lip gloss, you prefer more subtle color and shimmer
You won't like this product if: You prefer a thinner, non-sticky gloss, your budget is a little on the tight side, you prefer lots of shimmer
Rating: 3-3.5/5
Giveaway: Maybelline The Colossal Volum' Express Mascara
Hello lovelies, and happy August! Ready for tonight's announcement? Yep, you guessed it - a new giveaway! Since my birthday is right around the corner (August 20), I decided to be generous and give back to my readers again by holding a new contest (with the possibility of more on the way!).
Were you enticed by my last post about Maybelline The Colossal Volum' Express Mascara? Want to try it for free? Of course you do! Now you can win it and see for yourself!
Wait, there's more - I'm not giving away one, but three of these babies. That means everyone has three chances to win!
All you have to do to enter is provide your name and e-mail address in the box below (comments will not count), and I'll take care of the rest. The contest ends on August 14, 2008 at 11:59 PM, and three winners will be chosen at random by computer on August 15, 2008 after midnight.
Unfortunately, this giveaway is open to residents of the US and Canada only. Sorry to my foreign friends! I can't afford the long-distance shipping at the moment; my last prize shipment was definitely not budget-friendly. ;)
Thanks again for all your support, and enjoy the giveaway! Be sure to tell your friends, and good luck!
Maybelline The Colossal Volum' Express Mascara
I have a confession to make, but don't tell my CoverGirl Lash Blast: I've been two-timing it. Ever since I discovered Maybelline The Colossal Volum' Express Mascara in Glam Black, I've been enamored. And I never thought I'd like a mascara made by Maybelline!
You know you've seen it: that monstrous, bright yellow tube on display, with its huge wand and claims of nine times the volume. You've probably walked on by without giving it another look. Well, think again!
Just one swipe of the enormous brush, and the collagen-enhanced formula quickly darkens, lengthens, and volumizes my lashes easily. It's a pretty close match to my CoverGirl Lash Blast... maybe even, dare I say, better? While I don't expect nine times the volume from any product, it amplifies my lashes to sizes larger than I've ever seen. This is totally exciting for me, because I rarely find a mascara I truly love!
The formula is only clump-free if you work quickly and don't wait too long between coats (unless you want to suffer from an attack of the spider lashes), and I recommend having a lash brush on hand, but the results have still been amazing on me. Take a look!
Curled lashes, with Maybelline The Colossal Volum' Express MascaraPuffy allergy eyes, smudges, and poor photography aside, my lashes are looking good. Nice volume, great length and inky darkness... need I say more?
More great advantages are that it comes off super easily with soap and water when washing my face, and it doesn't make my lashes dry or brittle at all! In fact, it's one of the softest, most natural-feeling mascaras I've tried.
This mascara doesn't work for everyone, but I'm already hooked! And for $6.99, it's a steal whether you enjoy it or not.
I still can't see myself dumping my Lash Blast any time soon, but it's going to be a tough competition for a spot in my purse from here on out.
Oh yes, one more thing - stay tuned for a related announcement later tonight. I know you'll love it!
Featured on nzgirl!
I discovered yet another delightful surprise today while browsing my visitor sources - a website called nzgirl has featured me in the fashion and beauty manager's Top Five Beauty Blogs list!
I was so incredibly flattered that I was speechless for several minutes. I couldn't thank this website enough if I tried, and I truly, deeply appreciate the honor. Thank you!
And another big thanks to my readers, who help make this all possible. Come back this evening for something special!
Total Beauty Web Tour - 8/1/08
Welcome to another Total Beauty Web Tour! What have the Total Beauty bloggers been up to this week? Take a look to find out...
Enjoy and be beautiful!
The Makeup Divasreviews and shares photos of Mac's Sonic Chic Mineralize Blushes in Dainty and Merrily.
Tink at Casual Lavish explores other color options for Chanel Rodeo Drive nail polish.
Monique at Beauty Girl Musings is having a fabulous giveaway of Marini Lash! Be sure to enter, and long lush lashes could be yours!
The Daily Cookie is celebrating her first reader newsletter with a GIVEAWAY! Sign up and enter for your chance to win a Kat Von D True Romance Beethoven palette for you and a friend.
Roselyn from Makeup Makes Me Happy is back from her Caribbean vacation with a gorgeous Barbie-inspired makeup tutorial featuring pinks, blues, and purple hues from the latest M.A.C. collections!
Jamie of Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog questions whether hair extensions are worth the price.
Viva Woman shares a list of where to get free or inexpensive mineral makeup samples.
Is your makeup slip slidin' away in the heat? Beauty411 shares her thoughts on Skindinavia Makeup Primers and Finishing Spray.
The Muse is diving into Fall Collections! Check out her review on Urban Decay's Hot New 24/7 Concealer Pencil!
Beauty's SPOT addresses the toxic lipstick drama with, Lipstick, To Die For
Alison of the Advice Sisters Guide to Life, Success & Happiness Blog is loving a do-it-yourself fragrance kit by Bramble Berry that lets you create a signature scent in literally, seconds!
Beauty Anonymous shares a review on Guerlain KissKiss Maxi Shine - Sheer Colours Volume Effect Lipstick!The Beauty of Life may have been a blush novice before, but with Benefit Posietint in her life now she's totally hooked!
Beauty Tyrant has found the best waterproof mascara. She is currently swimming with mascara and loving her lush lashes!
Elke finds what was shown in the "Sex & the City movie, beauty wise.
Beauty Blogging Junkie shows you how you can channel a Mad Men character at various price points.
Glossypink gives you the lowdown on which Anastasia brow products are a hit, and which ones are a miss.
Fabulous Over Forty is talking Fall beauty collections this week. See what products are her favorites and what are not for women over forty.
Enter Beauty in Real Life's giveaway for a Kara James Rae Wristlet and some CoverGirl cosmetics!
Spoiled Pretty is hosting an egg-cellent giveaway. Enter today to win a PedEgg! You know you're dying to try it...
Frappelattes provides a how to apply foundation guide.
The Beauty Alchemist has preview pics of MAC's Cult of Cherry Collection.
Have a great weekend!!
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