Ipsy Subscription Glam Bag Review - April 2016

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 Dream On. The Glam Bag is once again adorable (most months are) and have an array of yellow, blue, red, orange and a hint of pink colors.

Tarte Lipsurgence Lip Cream in Wonder - Value $12 for 0.056 oz

This is a silky, full coverage lip crème with a formula that features lip-loving ingredients like maracuja, jojoba seed oil, shea butter and vitamin E to act as a drink of water for your lips. It will keep them looking youthful and full while restoring moisture throughout the day. Simply twist up the easy-glide, pencil tip to seamlessly deposit the perfect amount of complexion-enhancing color, and let the nourishing, high-performance formula do the rest.

Crown Brush C427 Duo Fiber Blush Brush - Full Size $23

This brush mutitasks as a blush brush as well as a highlight brush. There are indentations on each side so you know which side you used for each.

Juliet Has A Gun Not A Perfume eau de parfum spray - Value $8 for 0.17 oz

An edgy and chic perfume with a breathe of fresh air scent. Juliette Has a Gun Not a Perfume is a fragrant molecular composition of the single note cetalox captured in a perfume bottle. Usually used in perfumery as a base note, it plays the lead role here. Another advantage of this particular composition, is that it is entirely allergen free. The result is minimalist, elegant and pure.

Fragrance Notes:

Cetalox

Skin & Co Roma Truffle Therapy Anti Aging Serum - Value $12 for 0.17 oz

Formulated around the undiscovered properties of the truffle, Truffle Therapy Serum is infused with potent skin-renewing ingredients. Carefully handcrafted in Umbria, Italy, it restores skin with undetected radiance. Fine lines start to fade, roughness is surrendered and silky smoothness is immediately revealed and skin looks firmer and brighter, creating a healthy, youthful complexion with improved smoothness and tone.

City Color Cosmetics Highlight Trio - Full Size $9 for 3 x 0.08 oz

City Color Highlight Trio features three stunning highlight shades in one convenient palette. With a silky formulation, one swipe will get you hooked! Great for every day glow and combining shades to create a custom highlight.

Approximate value of this Glam Bag is $64

Stacey <3

BoxyCharm Subscription Box Review - April 2016

Hello Beauties <3

BoxyCharm is a monthly subscription box that includes 5 full and luxury size beauty items for $21 a month. This month's theme is Cloudy with a Chance of Charms.

Here is a peek of the April box of beauties........

Ofra Long Lasting Liquid Lipstick in Pasadena - Full Size $19.90 for 0.27 oz

These are described as a one step full lip color that do not feather. These vibrant colors will give you a vivacious new look.They are creamy and soft in texture, moisturizing the lips and creating a long lasting lipstick effect. No need to use lip liner, this liquid lipstick gives a beautiful edge to your lip look! Pasadena is described as a pinky/brown nude.

Purlisse Daily Lip Nourisher with Mango & Shea Butters - Full Size $16 for 0.38 oz

This advanced treatment lip nourisher is enriched with Mango & Shea Butters, Jojoba & Rice Bran Oils and Vitamin E. It richly hydrates and seals in moisture.  An exclusive petroleum-free balm heals dry and cracked lips leaving them lush, soft, moist and youthful-looking. This formula truly hydrates & nourishes your lips, doesn't just coat them. Since lips do not have oil glands, it’s especially important to treat & protect them with healing ingredients such as Mango & Shea Butters packed with rich antioxidants & healing benefits. Petroleum based lip balms creates a barrier on your lips rather than hydrating them, leading to “lip balm addiction.”

Your Minerals Eyeshadow in Brown Hypnotic Eye Glimmer  - Full Size $23 

With its glimmering effect you can create a dramatic look by applying a thicker layer and by shading it next to other yourMinerals eyeshadows. When used with a thin layer you will achieve that little sparkle that might be necessary for your sophisticated, but yet fun look. Brown Hypnotic is stylish both used separately dry for a glimmering look, or wet for a shimmering metallic look. It can also be mixed with other colors to create an infinite number of shades. Brown Hypnotic is made by 100% minerals.

Blinc Cosmetics Black Lash Primer - Full Size $26 for 0.16 oz

Now you can get the ultimate base in lash building volume with a lash primer that will keep your mascara looking blackest black! Many white lash primers make the application of mascara over top of them difficult and can dilute the true black finish you desire.

blinc black lash primer was created with two objectives in mind; lash treatment, as well as eyelash enhancement. Pentapeptide-17 treats lashes, encouraging new lash growth for fuller, longer lashes over time. Vitamins and nourishing ingredients such as D-Panthenol and Tocopheral Acetate impart long lasting moisturization and conditioning to protect lashes from damage and environmental stresses. Also, it does not contain any fumes or fragrances that will sting or irritate your eyes.

blinc black lash primer provides an incredible base of volume & length for your lashes, prior to applying your mascara. As many coats as desired can be added within 60 seconds to achieve a foundation of fuller, thicker lashes. The innovative silicone wand separates and lengthens while blinc black lash primer coats lashes. When mascara is immediately applied over top, a jet black, voluminous finish remains. Remove with any makeup remover.

Anderson Lilley Manhattan Beach Beach Butter Hand Cream - Full Size $24 for 2.0 oz

Enriched with Shea Butter, this formula penetrates quickly to nourish, moisturize and protect your skin. Safflower seed oil, Aloe Vera and Vitamin E is added to enhance the results. The fragrance notes are Bergamot, White Jasmine, Citrus, Brazilian soft woods and musk.

Approximate value of this box is $109

Stacey <3

GlossyBox Subscription Box Review - April 2016

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 April box of beauties........

beautyinparadiseblog.blogspot.com

Leighton Denny Expert Nails Nail Polish in Pillow Talk - Full Size $19 for 0.40 oz

Pillow Talk is a deep pink with a hint of wine. A luscious berry shade with a sensational gloss finish

Unani Dermo Defense Face Mask - Full Size - $18 for 3.4 oz

This face mask provides protection, nutrition and hydration while removing impurities. When used once or twice a week, you will notice some improvement in your skin's regeneration. Apply to a cleansed face, leave on for 10 minutes and then wash off. Follow with your normal skin care routine. Dermo Defense face mask is recommended for sensitive skin.

Norell New York eau de parfum - Value $11 for 0.25 oz

The iconic fragrance has been re-mastered and modernized for today’s landscape and sensibility. With the pure quality of its ingredients and its exquisite blend of notes, Norell New York leads us to rediscover the artistry and craftsmanship of perfume. A floral fragrance with notes of Mandarin, Bergamot, and Jasmine, Sandlewood and Vanilla.

Biossance The Nourisher Precious Rose Face Oil - Value $10 for 0.14 oz

THE NOURISHER is a luxurious face oil blended with an elixir of roses designed to keep skin radiant, supple and smooth. Massage a few drops onto cleansed face and neck, morning and night. Adjust drops as needed.

Facts from their website:

The power of THE NOURISHER

• Reduces and smooths the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and crow’s feet
• Increases skin radiance by 32%
• Improves skin tone and texture for a flawless complexion
• Improves skin suppleness and firmness
• Protects skin from moisture loss


• Ideal for all skin types including sensitive skin
• Dermatologist tested
• Opthamologist tested
• Non-toxic
• No synthetic fragrance, parabens, phthalates, or mineral oil

CLINICAL RESULTS AFTER 28 DAYS: 

• Reduces appearance of fine lines & wrinkles
• Increases skin radiance by 32%
• Improves skin suppleness and firmness
• Improves skin tone and texture for a flawless complexion  

Studio 10 Brow Lift Perfecting Liner - Full Size $20

A double sided brow liner to naturally define and highlight

Approximate value of this box is $78

Stacey <3

March Empties

Hello Beauties <3

March is over and it's time to share my empties with you. I finished a few more perfume samples and a few different skin care samples.

Sephora Colorful Blush in Sweet on You - Retail Price $12 for 0.14 oz

Sweet on You is a pretty coral pink. I received this sample card in a mystery bag from Sephora and decided to finally give it a try. It is a great every day blush and will go with many different looks. It has a slight shimmer to it and will flatter every skin tone.

MAC Pro Eye Makeup Remover - Retail Price $21 for 3.4 oz

A lightweight, non-oily cleanser that needs no rinsing and removes without irritation. A mega-effective remover that lifts off every look—from delicate to dramatic—without smudges, tears or aggression. Pro-quality, yet decidedly gentle; calms, hydrates and soothes skin with cucumber extract. Makeup can be immediately reapplied. A favorite of busy models. 

Tarte Maracuja Oil - Retail Price $48 for 1.7 oz and $75 for 3.4 oz

A treatment oil that targets individual skin concerns and delivers balanced moisture for firmer, brighter, and smoother-looking skin. Rich in essential fatty acids known to recharge and replenish skin, Maracuja Oil works to rejuvenate and deliver an even-toned complexion while its infusion of vitamin C creates the appearance of brighter skin. This powerful elixir supports anti-aging and provides instant hydration—quenching dry skin without leaving it feeling greasy or filmy. 

I like adding a drop of this oil to my moisturizer at night for a little more hydration. 

Caudalie Instant Detox Mask - Retail Price $39 for 2.5 oz

A detoxifying mask that draws out accumulated toxins from clogged pores to revitalize and invigorate the complexion. True rehab for the skin, this Instant Detox Mask brings life to dull, tired skin. It clears the pores of impurities and toxins, purifies from pollution, and invigorates lackluster skin. Great to use before a night out or after a stressful week, it is enriched with grape marc to detoxify, pink clay and coffee to clarify, and papaya enzymes for a boost of immediate radiance. 

Cane + Austin Miracle Pad + - Retail Price $88 for 60 peels

An intensive glycolic facial treatment clinically proven to exfoliate, even skin tone, support natural collagen, and visibly reduce the appearance of age spots. These easy-to-use, one-step daily treatment pads contain pharmaceutical grade glycolic acid to deliver ultimate anti aging results. Great for all skin types including dry and sensitive, they reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots, even pigmentation, and restore skin luminosity and vitality.

Tom Ford Velvet Orchid eau de parfum - variety of sizes

$45 - 0.20 oz rollerball
$80 - 1.0 oz spray
$115 - 1.7 oz spray
$165 - 3.4 oz spray

Tom Ford Velvet Orchid is an oriental floral that evolves the carnal grandeur and seductive power of the iconic Tom Ford Black Orchid into an uber-feminine fragrance lavished with notes of cool citrus, dramatic petals, suede accord, and vanilla. Rich, spicy, and intensely floral, it evokes a warm exotic garden. The slim and elegant bottle is enhanced with bold vertical texture and the signature brass nameplate. 

Notes: 
Orange Blossom, Hyacinth, Jonquil, Cattleya Leopoldii Orchid, Suede Accord, Vanilla Tincture. 
Style: 
Lavish. Dramatic. Seductive.

Stella McCartney Stella eau de parfum - variety of sizes

$22 - 0.25 oz travel spray
$50 - 1.0 oz spray
$72 - 1.6 oz spray
$92 - 3.3 oz spray

The first scent from Stella McCartney, STELLA, is a homage to the English rose, and an effortless expression of femininity. The refined floral evokes a rose in full bloom in a traditional English garden with a sultry amber contrast. Beautiful and unapologetically feminine, STELLA's scent composition is approachable and enduring. 

Soft rosy floral top notes drive the fragrance, subtly balanced with sharp, fresh mandarin essence and light peony flower. Intensifying and elongating the opening notes, the heart is pure rose, to represent absolute femininity. Stella’s base notes give a strong, sensual finish. Resonating up through the rose accord, the masculinity of the amber contrasts the floral side, making it bold with a sensual finish. 

The fragrance is contained in a faceted bottle inspired by an amethyst crystal, radiating an ombre of plum hues designed by Stella McCartney. 

Notes: 
Rose, Peony Flower, Mandarin, Rose Absolute, Amber. 
Style: 
Sensual. Intense. Feminine.

Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium eau de parfum - variety of sizes

$25 - 0.33 oz spray
$68 - 1.0 oz spray
$90 - 1.6 oz spray
$115 - 3.0 oz spray

Black Opium is the new highly addictive feminine fragrance from Yves Saint Laurent. Fascinating and seductively intoxicating, the opening notes of adrenaline-rich coffee and the sweet sensuality of vanilla recline into the softness of white flowers for a modern, young, and vibrant interpretation of addiction. Get your dose. 

Notes: 
Coffee Accord, Orange Blossom, Cedarwood Essence, Patchouli Essense. 
Style: Addictive. Floral. Energetic. 


Stacey <3

Ipsy Subscription Glam Bag Review - March 2016

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 Hello Spring. The Glam Bag is adorable and the colors really make you think of Spring.

It Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Anti Aging Concealer - Value $10 for 0.11 oz (full size $24 for 0.28 oz)
Vera Mona Lotus Eyeshadow in Clover - Value unknown (part of a palette)
Nude Skincare ProGenius Treatment Oil - Value $13 for 0.16 oz (full size $78 for 1 oz)
Mellow Cosmetics Powder Blush in Bronze - Retail Price $10 for 0.17 oz
Global Beauty Care Collagen Spa Treatment Mask - Valued at $4 ($2 per mask)

I redeemed some points for this Michelle Phan Em Shade Play Lip Color Mixing Palette in Mix It Up Roses. It retails for $28 and comes with a mirror, lip brush and mixing well to create your own creative lip color.

Stacey <3

BoxyCharm Subscription Box Review - February and March 2016

Hello Beauties <3

BoxyCharm is a monthly subscription box that includes 5 full and luxury size beauty items for $21 a month. Unfortunately I just received my February box today, yes today March 19th. Oddly enough my March box arrived a few days prior. Apparently my box was lost in space somewhere so I was able to post a blog until now.

Here is a peek of the February box of beauties........

The theme was Rush to Relax - from stilettos to slippers, get ready to work hard and rest easy.

Spongelle You Have My Heart On A String - Retail Price $15
Beauty For Real Blush in Coral Crush + Luminizer in Hi Beam - Retail Price $24 for 0.32 oz
Shray Ms. Amazing Facial Mask - Retail Price $12
Ofra Banana Powder Godet - Retail Price $12 for 0.14 oz
Freeze 24/7 Anti Aging Eye Serum - Retail Price $58 for 0.50 oz. Valued at $29 for 0.23 oz
Realtree For Her eau de parfum travel spray - Valued at $12.99 for 0.30 oz

Approximate value of this box is $104.99

Here is a peek of the March box of beauties........

The theme was Sweet Treats - sugar is sweet, but this box is sweeter. Unfortunately there was no card with the details and prices of each product.

Makeup Geek Pressed Eyeshadow Pan in Frappe - Retail Price $6 for 0.064 oz
Makeup Geek Duochrome Eyeshadow Pan in Mai Tai - Retail Price $6 for 0.064 oz
Luxie Rose Gold Small Contour Brush 512 - Retail Price $16
Catherine Malandrino CM Style de Paris Travel Spray - Valued at $16 for 0.30 oz
Chella Eyebrow Pencil in Tantalizing Taupe - Retail Price $18 for 0.003 oz
Ofra Body Illuminizer Charmer - Retail Price $39.95 for 4 oz

Approximate value of this box is $101.95


Stacey <3

February Empties

Hello Beauties <3

Another month is behind us and it's time to share some products that were used during the month of February. Since I have so many perfume samples, I am trying to use a handful of them each month going forward.

Belif Witch Hazel Herbal Extract Toner - Retail price $28 for 6.75 oz

I was so excited to try more products from this Korean Skincare line ever since I tested their Aqua Bomb moisturizer. I needed a new toner so I decided to give this a try and I must say I was impressed. I liked that this toner had a thicker, more creamier consistency than other toners I tried. It definitely left my skin feeling clean, toned and hydrated.

Details from their site: A toner formulated with witch hazel to hydrate dry, dull skin, leaving it hydrated, soothed, and balanced after cleansing. This botanical toner is formulated to hydrate dry, dull skin, leaving it even and deeply moisturized after cleansing. It contains a blend of apothecary herbs, including witch hazel, to help clarify and hydrate skin by sealing in moisture. Skin appears supple and revitalized over time. 

Kate Somerville Age Arrest Anti Wrinkle Cream - Retail Price $90 for 1.7 oz

Like most skin care products, you have to use them over a period of time to see results. I don't always get that opportunity because I have so many different products in my stash waiting patiently to get used. With that said, I have one more deluxe sample to use but I'm not running to Sephora to buy the full size.

According to information found on their official website, here are the clinical results I found:

After 4 weeks:

• 90% of women showed highly significant improvement in skin firmness and elasticity
• 93% of women showed highly significant improvement in skin discoloration and skin tone evenness

After 6 weeks:

• 93% of women said their skin felt hydrated and moisturized
• Crow’s feet and fine lines are significantly improved

Clinically tested to be safe for sensitive skin. Clinical results based on an independent Clinical Study

First Aid Beauty Skin Rescue Purifying Mask with Red Clay - Retail Price $30 for 3 oz

My skin really enjoys this mask. It is a peel off mask that is meant to stay on your face for 20 minutes but I leave it on for closer to 30 minutes. I can see an instant difference in my skin when I remove it. 
This mask treatment delivers immediately visible results akin to a professional treatment. In just 20 minutes the mask detoxifies and deeply purifies the complexion by drawing out skin impurities with a potent concentration of red clay. It regulates excess sebum, and eliminates clogged pores. In addition, mineral rich red clay reduces congestive pigmentation in problem areas where pimples previously formed and improves the skin’s texture. As the mask is peeled away, skin looks smoother, softer, and refreshed while pores appear visibly reduced. I would definitely buy the full size of this mask. 

Sephora Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover -  Retail price $14 for 6.76 oz

I have tried may different makeup removers and although most get the job done, this one removes my waterproof mascara the quickest and the easiest with very little tugging of my lashes. It does not sting or irritate my eyes at all. Give it a few shakes, pour a little onto a makeup wipe and you're good to go..... bye bye makeup. Oh and of course the price is a major plus.

Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay In Place Foundation - Retail price $38 for 1 oz

I wear Ivory Beige 3N1 which is described as ivory beige (that's a shocker :) ) with warm neutral undertones. Although I find this shade a little too light for my skin,  I have been wearing it for about two years mostly during the winter months with some bronzer. The formula is described as a 15-hour, flawless foundation that stays looking fresh and natural through heat, humidity, and nonstop activity. Estēe Lauder’s Double Wear Makeup delivers flawless, 15-hour staying power, and it is natural-looking for carefree coverage. A lightweight, oil-free, and buildable formula, it doesn’t change color, leaving your makeup looking as fresh as when you first applied it. 

Nars Audacious Mascara - Retail price $26 for 0.32 oz

I did a full review on this mascara back in August. Click here for the details: Nars Audacious Mascara Review

Ren Flash Rinse 1 Minute Facial - Retail price $48 for 2.5 oz

A one-minute mask that firms, tones, and smooths the skin with 10 percent vitamin C that turns a dull complexion bright. Formulated with potent water-activated vitamin C, this one-minute mask instantly revitalizes and visibly rejuvenates the skin. It reduces signs of fatigue, photo-aging, and skin imperfections, and leaves skin looking firm, toned, and smoothed. Skin instantly glows with renewed health and radiance. 

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. A definite YAY for me. If you couldn't tell from my previous blog posts, I use these daily so they usually show up in my empties. Sadly this was my last package I need to get to Costco!

Peter Thomas Roth CC Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 30 - Retail price $48 for 1.7 oz

An all-in-one antiaging treatment, sunscreen, complexion corrector, moisturizer, and tint. This multifunctional complexion corrector is formulated with arbutin and camu camu, an Amazonian superfruit that has 30 times the vitamin C of an average orange. Vitamin C evens out the skintone and supports natural collagen, creating the appearance of firmer, brighter, younger-looking skin over time. It instantly minimizes the look of imperfections, while broad spectrum SPF 30 protects skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Antioxidant vitamins C and E help fight free radical attack and keep skin healthy, radiant, and beautiful. 

Chanel Chance eau de parfum - Retail price $94 for 1.7 oz or $124 for 3.4 oz

Floral notes merge with sweet and spicy elements to embody the most powerful, concentrated and long-lasting form of fragrance.For those who dare to dream, the decidedly young scent of CHANCE, an unexpected floral, pulls out all the stops.

Chanel Coco eau de parfum - Retail price $94 for 1.7 oz

An elegant, luxurious spray closest in strength and character to the parfum form. Spray lightly on pulse points morning and evening. The classic signature bottle is a sophisticated addition to any dressing table.

Marc Jacobs Daisy Dream eau de toilette - variety of sizes

 $25 for 0.33 oz rollerball

 $54 for 1.0 oz bottle

 $78 for 1.7 oz bottle

 $96 for 3.4 oz bottle

Inspired by the boundless spirit of daisies and blue skies, Daisy Dream reflects Marc Jacobs’ irresistible mix of intricate details, elegance, and femininity for a fresh interpretation of the iconic Daisy motif. The fruity-floral fragrance has a light and airy touch, bursting with top notes of blackberry, grapefruit, and pear. The heart notes are introduced with a bouquet of jasmine, lychee, and blue wisteria, and a medley of white woods, musks, and coconut water reveal the base notes. 

The glass bottle is enveloped in a shawl of laced daisies, topped with a silver cap, and adorned with gold hues and daisy accents. 

Notes: 
Blackberry, Grapefruit, Pear, Jasmine, Lychee, Blue Wisteria, White Woods, Musks, Coconut Water. 
Style: 
Ethereal. Free-spirited. Luminous.

Lancome La Vie Est Belle eau de parfum - variety of sizes

 $25 for 0.34 oz rollerball

 $66 for 1.0 oz bottle

 $86 for 1.7 oz bottle

 $110 for 2.5 oz bottle

 $198 for 6.76 oz bottle (never saw a bottle this big)

La vie est belle or life is beautiful—the expression of a new era. It represents a choice; the choice to break free from convention, the choice to create your own path to happiness. La vie est belle introduces a new story, the first ever iris gourmand. 

The juice is made with the most precious natural ingredients, a modern interpretation of an oriental fragrance with a twist of gourmand. It entwines the elegance of iris with the strength of patchouli and the sweetness of a gourmand blend for an incredible scent with depth and complexity. 

Notes:
Iris, Patchouli, Gourmand. 
Style:
Free. Happy. Deep.

Stacey <3