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Sunday, October 25, 2015

Let's Talk Mario Badescu Skin Care

Hello Beauties <3

I need to give a BIG shout out to Mario Badescu Skin Care! Ever want to try a product before handing over your hard earned cash? Come on ladies, I know I am not alone on this one.

:::Raises hand proudly:::

I most definitely love the generosity of companies and beauty stores that allow you to experiment with their line to make sure it's a perfect fit before you purchase the full size product. I can't begin to tell you how many products I bought as a result of trying a sample of it (probably more than I'd like to admit)

I was browsing the Internet one night and came across Mario Badescu's website so being the curious beauty addict I am, I decided to look at what he had to offer. The first thing I noticed was you were able to shop by skin type which can be a handy tool for some people who are not really sure what products to use.

For me, I know my skin is normal but has a tendency to be a wee bit dry at times. To test my knowledge, I decided to take the skin analysis test to see what product recommendations I'd get.

Fast forward about 4 days and I get a package in the mail. I open it immediately and was pleasantly surprised to see a collection of deluxe and foil samples to try.


  • Almond & Honey Non-Abrasive Face Scrub
  • Aloe Lotion
  • Buttermilk Moisturizer
  • Dermonectin Eye Cream
  • Orange Cleansing Soap
  • Orange Tonic Mask
  • Seaweed Night Cream
  • Botanical Exfoliating Scrub



My thoughts:

Almond & Honey Non-Abrasive Face Scrub - This smells so good however I was expecting more of a "scrub" consistency - you know - those wonderful little particles working their magic on your face

Seaweed Night Cream - You only need to apply a small amount of this cream or else it will leave your skin feeling somewhat greasy

Dermonectin Eye Cream - This eye cream really hydrated under my eyes and it's a pretty light blue color 

Aloe Lotion - At first the name threw me off because I thought it was.....well....lotion. It is actually a soothing toner that has aloe to refresh and rejuvenate your skin

Although I liked these products very much, I feel my skin would have benefited more from their anti aging line so I think I will try that next.


Stacey <3






Tuesday, October 20, 2015

BoxyCharm Subscription Box Review - October 2015

Hello Beauties <3

BoxyCharm is a monthly subscription box that includes 5 full and luxury size beauty items for $21 a month.

Here is a peek at the October box of beauties........


This month's theme is Faces of the Moon - Let your light illuminate the darkness!

Every product in this box is Full Size and here's what was included:

Palmetto Derma Rejuvenating Antioxidant Mask - 1.75 oz  $64
Doucce Punk Volumizer Mascara - 0.45 oz  $24
Bellapierre Cheek and Lip Stain in Coral - 0.17 oz  $19.99
Lord & Berry Line/Shade Eyeliner/Shadow Pencil in Dark Black - 0.03 oz  $18
Cult Cosmetics Nail Polish in Boneyards - 0.50 oz  $12

Approximate value of this box is $137.99

I tried the mask last night and I must say it smelled pretty good and had a slight tingling feel to it. It applied easily and I left it on for 30 minutes. After washing it off with warm water, I continued with my normal nightly skin care routine.

Here's a description:

The soft clay of the mask gently purifies skin, by absorbing impurities and cleaning pores and skin. The advanced antioxidants defend against free radicals and reverse daily skin damage.  This mask is 
whipped-up to velvety perfection for luxurious and easy application.  The cooling effect refreshes and soothes the skin as the mask works its magic, leaving skin bright and smooth!

Today I tried the mascara and my first impression was "ehh". I did not like the applicator, it was a big and heavy making it a little difficult to apply mascara to my lower lashes with ease. 

It is described as defining lashes one by one making them thicker and adding spectacular volume. The short and long bristles help separate and lengthen lashes effortlessly. The intense volumization gives you instantly thicker and fuller lashes.

Until next month..............



Stacey <3

Sunday, October 18, 2015

GlossyBox Subscription Box Review - October 2015

Hello Beauties <3

GlossyBox is a monthly subscription box that includes 5 full and deluxe size beauty items for $21 a month.

Here is a peek at the October box of beauties........


I am loving this Paris theme. The box is gorgeous and will go so well with my new makeup room decor. I normally keep all my subscription boxes but this one will not go in the closet.






La Roche-Posay Redermic Retinol Cream - 0.16 oz  $9.50 value - Full Size 1.0 oz  $57
Sabe Masson Le Soft Perfume - 0.17 oz  $25  Full Size
Nuxe Gentle Exfoliating Gel with Rose Petals - 2.6 oz  $24  Full Size
Lollipops Make Up Paris Nail Lacquer in Voyage A Paris - 0.40 oz  $10  Full Size
De Bruyere Paris Red Lipgloss - 017 oz  $17.50  Full Size

Approximate value of this box is $86


Stacey <3



Saturday, October 17, 2015

Ipsy Subscription Glam Bag Review - October 2015

Hello Beauties <3

If you subscribe to Ipsy, each month you will receive a cute Glam Bag filled with a mix of 5 full sized beauty products or deluxe samples all for just $10.

This month's theme is Alter Ego. The Glam Bag is gold on one side and black on the other.

Here is a peek of the October Glam Bag:


Swatches of theBalm liquid lipstick and Mica Beauty cream shadow


Me wearing theBalm liquid lipstick



Royal & Langnickel Moda Medium Eyeshadow Shader Brush - $3.99
theBalm Cosmetics Meet Matt(e) Hughes Long-Lasting Liquid Lipstick in Committed (pinky nude)                  0.04 oz  $3.40 value  -  Full Size 0.25 oz  $17
Mica Beauty Cream Eyeshadow in Bronze - 0.14 oz  $14.95 Full Size - Ipsy Exclusive
Balanced Guru Scrub Me Body Scrub - 1.0 oz  $2.87 value  Full Size 8.0 oz  $22.99
Nourish Organic Pure Hydrating Argan Face Serum 0.50 oz $17 value  Full Size 0.70 oz $23.99

Approximate value of this month's Glam Bag is $42.21


Stacey <3

Monday, October 12, 2015

MOTD - Makeup of the Day 10/11/2015

Hello Beauties <3

This is the last makeup look of the weekend.





Products used:

Face:
Too Faced Primed & Poreless Face Primer
Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation
Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour Kit - Banana (to set under my eyes)
Dermablend Setting Powder
Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour Kit - Java & Havana (to contour)
Kat Von D Blush in Love Story

Eyes:
NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in Milk
Kat Von D Fever Ray Trio Palette
Too Faced Perfect Waterproof Eyeliner in Black (tightline)
Nars Audacious Mascara

Lips:
Stila Lip Glaze in Dianthus


Stacey <3





MOTD - Makeup of the Day - October 10, 2015

Hello Beauties <3

So as promised, I am using different palettes and lipsticks as often as possible. I have been doing pretty good with sticking to that but you will notice my face makeup stays the same for the most part.











Products used:

Face:
Too Faced Primed & Poreless Face Primer
Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation
Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour Kit - Banana (to set under my eyes)
Dermablend Setting Powder
Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour Kit - Java & Havana (to contour)
Kat Von D Blush in Love Story

Eyes:
NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in Milk
Tarte Coral Crush Palette Eyeshadow in Tropical Suntan, Lilac Mist & Cocoa Cabana
Too Faced Perfect Waterproof Eyeliner in Black (tightline)
Nars Audacious Mascara

Lips:
Stila Lip Glaze in Glisten


Stacey <3

MOTD - Makeup of the Day - October 9, 2015

Hello Beauties <3

I have not had as many beauty hauls lately because I am really trying to bring out palettes and lipsticks that I haven't used as much and give them some love.

This look was from last Friday and I am just getting around to posting because of the busy holiday weekend I had :)








Products used:

Face:
Too Faced Primed & Poreless Fae Primer
Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation
Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour Kit - Banana (to set under my eyes)
Dermablend Setting Powder
Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour Kit - Java & Havana (to contour)
Kat Von D Blush in Love Story

Eyes:
NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in Milk
Urban Decay Eyeshadow in Laced & Woodstock
Too Faced Perfect Waterproof Eyeliner in Black (tightline)
Nars Audacious Mascara

Lips:
Sephora Lip Liner in Pinup Pink
Estee Lauder Pure Color in Candy Shimmer


Stacey <3

Wednesday, October 7, 2015

Hip Hip Hooray....another Sephora Haul

Hello Beauties <3

My last haul of September.....I know I'm a bit late to the party, but better late than never. I already used some of the products but never found the time to take the pictures and complete this blog post.

Just a few small hauls and a ton of samples to close out the month


Kat Von D Mi Vida Loca Remix Palette (used it a bunch of times already)
belif Witch Hazel Herbal Extract Toner
OCC Lip Tars in Hush, Hoochie and Strumpet (like I really needed anymore)
Sephora Kiss Kiss Universal Rose Gloss
TokyoMilk Dark Bee Balm in Cherry Bourbon

Perks and Promos:

Buxom Tokens of Temptation includes Full On Lipstick in San Francisco, Full On Lip Cream in    Berry Blast and Full On Lip Gloss in Erin
Bite Beauty LE lipstick and gloss in Mimoso (250 point perk)
Perricone MD Face Finishing Moisturizer (100 point perk)
Lancer The Method Polish
Givenchy Le Rouge A Porter lipstick in Rose Aristocrate 201


Algenist Genius Ultimate Anti Aging Eye Cream
Algenist Complete Eye Renewal Balm
Korres Greek Yoghurt Foaming Cream Cleanser
Origins Original Skin Retexturizing Mask with Rose Clay
Tarte Maracuja Creaseless Concealer
Clinique Beyond Perfecting Foundation + Concealer
Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer


Stacey <3 


MOTD - Makeup of the Day - October 7, 2015

Hello Beauties <3

Happy Wednesday - mid week for most of us!













Products used:

Face:

Too Faced Primed and Poreless face primer
Too Faced Born This Way foundation in Light Beige
Dermablend setting powder
KVD blush in Love Song
ABH contour kit - Java & Havana

Eyes:

NYX Jumbo Pencil in Milk
KVD Mi Vita Loca Remix palette - for my entire eye I mixed Strutter, Lyric, Noble & Skulls
 crease & outer lid - Hyperballad   inner lid - Love
Too Faced Perfect Waterproof Eyeliner in Black - tightline
Nars Audacious mascara

Lips:

Buxom Full On Lip Cream in Berry Blast
Buxom Full On Lip Gloss in Erin


Stacey<3







Sunday, October 4, 2015

September Empties - Yay or Nay

Hello Beauties <3

Another month is behind us and that means more beauty products have been used and it's time to talk about the yays and nays of my September empties.



Previse Nutrify Tonic Level 1-6  Retail price $48 for 3.0 oz

A description from their website:

Our potent antioxidant elixir helps to hydrate your skin. Nutrify is not a serum or toner. Nutrify is oil-free and non-astringent. Step 2.0 in our three-step series, Nutrify follows Purify, our sulfate-free wash. Nutrify helps hydrate skin, fights free radicals and waterborne pollutants or additives like chlorine.


Nutrify Liposomal Tonic 1-6 is our latest bio-healthy innovation to help hydrate skin plus fight free radicals and surface irritants. Our oil-free tonic is unique and unlike oil-base serums. Nutrify sits deep in the dermis to help keep pores clean, hydrate the skin, plus fight free radicals and waterborne pollutants or additives. The bio-heathy tonic was crafted with Professional Makeup Artists for exceptional performance. The dual benefit, mattifying hydrator helps scavenge free radicals PLUS acts as a key, light-weight barrier to makeup that may contain parabens, triclosan and other skin irritating ingredients.
One of our signature ingredients is Bellis perennis, a daisy flower extract. The non-bleaching botanical helps stop brown spots. Our closely guarded recipe contains the highest grade active ingredients which are slowly blended to retain maximum potency. You can expect Nutrify to help fight skin oxidization, promote cellular regeneration, and even skin tone while mattifying for a cleaner appearance for both men and women. As with all Previse products Nutrify is free of parabens, silicones and skin clogging petroleum ingredients.

My thoughts on this product:

I really enjoyed using this product. The description says it's not a serum or a toner but I most definitely used it as a toner during my morning and nighttime skin routine. It left my skin feeling hydrated and ready for the day. My first thought was I would never pay $48 a bottle but since I received it in a subscription box (BoxyCharm March 2015), I gave it a whirl. To my surprise, it actually lasted me 6 months so the bottom line is, it's worth the price in my opinion. 


Nude Advanced Renewal Eye Complex - Retail price $58 for 0.50 oz

I am a huge eye cream addict especially ones that say age defying or anti aging. I was able to get 5 uses out of this sample. A little goes a long way, dab gently with your ring finger under your eyes up towards the outer part of your brow. I applied it during both my day and night time skin routines. The concentrated treatment nourishes and smooths under your eyes with omegas 3, 6 and 9, wrinkle smoothing protein peptides and moisturizing hyaluronic acids. It leaves your skin looking younger and feeling revitalized and instantly tight.

Results from their website:
  • 100% said the eye area was moisturized and hydrated*
  • 88% said this product helped smooth wrinkles around the eye area*
  • 97% said the eye area was soothed*
  • 88% said the eye area felt nourished and firm*
  • 88% said the eye area appeared more luminous*
  • 79% said this product was more effective than other anti-aging eye products they have used*
*Results observed in a consumer panel survey after 4 weeks

Nude ProGenius Omega Treatment Milk - Retail price $58 for 1.0 oz

This sample lasted 3 uses for me. Some serums have more of a liquidy consistency but this is a cream serum and I actually prefer this type. A skin-quenching serum packed with omega-rich super foods that promotes smooth, luminous, healthy-looking skin. This lightweight, fast absorbing but intense serum delivers instant hydration and nourishment to thirsty skin and can be used both day and night

Results from their website:
Immediately after use:
  • 100% said it quickly absorbs into skin*
  • 90.3% said skin feels revitalized*
  • 90.3% said skin feels instantly hydrated*
  • 83.9% said it helps even skin tone*
After 2 weeks of use:
  • 100% said skin feels smoother*
  • 83.9% said skin feels hydrated throughout the day*
  • 83.9% said skin appears rejuvenated after use*
  • 80.6% said skin feels more youthful*
*Results observed in a consumer panel survey on 31 subjects.
Nude Cellular Renewal Moisturizer - Retail price $88 for 1.7 oz
I was able to get 5 uses out of this possibly old sample, I think it may be a discontinued or revamped moisturizer. I could not find it on their website but was able to find their Advanced Renewal Moisturizer. I found this anti aging moisturizer to be hydrating and lightweight but had a not so nice smell to it.

Kirkland Signature Daily Facial Towelettes - Retail price $11.99 for 150 count
Included in this box are 4 - 30 count flip top recloseable lid packs and 2 - 15 count resealable travel packs. I absolutely love these makeup wipes from Costco. I use them every night to remove my makeup although I still pour a little makeup remover on them just to help remove my waterproof mascara with ease. I do not like tugging on my eyes and lashes if I don't have to.
Pamper yourself with an effective and complete skin care solution that offers a deep clean and will not irritate your skin. This mild formula has cucumber, chamomile flower extract and aloe and will remove all traces of makeup, dirt and oil leaving your skin glowing and refreshed, No need to rinse your face afterwards.

GlamGlow SuperMud Clearing Treatment - Retail price $69 for 1.2 oz

I love facial masks but this mask is not one that I would purchase in the future. Not because I didn't like it or that it had a negative effect on my skin but because its main purpose targets, prevents and heals problem skin which benefit my normal skin. This treatment mask helps fight all the common skin concerns including breakouts, discoloration, black and white heads, razor bumps, and in-grown hair. What I did like about it and benefited from was that it draws out dirt and cleans out clogged pores leaving skin soft, smooth, bright and healthy looking. 

MUFE Ultra HD Foundation - Retail price $43 for 1.0 oz

This was a sample from Sephora in Y345 Natural Beige but it was a little too light for my face during the summer months so I had to add some bronzer.  This is my HG foundation at the moment.

Too Faced Born This Way Foundation - Retail price $39 for 1.0 oz

I received samples if this foundation in Sand and Golden. I actually liked the way this foundation looked on me and lasted throughout the day. Although I'm loving the MUFE Ultra HD foundation, this is a very close second for me. As far as the color goes, Golden was a better color match for my skin tone.

Overall, my September empties were a Yay except for the Nude Skin Care moisturizer. I'm not sold on it.

Let's see what I will use in the month of October...........until then....


Stacey <3











MOTD - Makeup of the Day - October 3, 2015

Hello Beauties <3

It's a gloomy, rainy day so I threw my hair up in a bun put on some makeup and out the door I went!!










Products used:

Face:

MUFE Ultra HD Foundation in Y375 Golden Sand
Dermablend setting powder
Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour kit - Havana and Java
Kat Von D blush in Love Song

Eyes:

NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in Milk
Kat Von D Esperanza palette - Placebo in crease
theBalm eyeshadow in Fit
Too Faced Perfect Waterproof Eyeliner in Black - tightline
OCC Pencil in Pool Boy - waterline
Nars Audacious mascara

Lips:

Buxom Full On Lipstick in San Francisco

Finished this look with MAC Prep + Prime Fix +

Stacey <3