July 2013 Ipsy & Birchbox

Hi Beauties! Well, its that time of month again; its time for... Battle Of The Boxes... Ipsy and Birchbox! Remember, the unboxing video is at the end of this blog.

The theme for Ipsy Glam Bag is "Beach Beauty".
The theme for Birchbox is "Power Play".


(Note: I really wish Ipsy that they would have sent in a card with all the information/pricing on it like Birchbox does and Influenster). I've been trying out these products that Birchbox have sent me on July 16th & 17th, 2013 over the past few weeks and here are my thoughts on what I've thought about some of the products that they have sent to me.


Birchbox -- Power Play
So, In this month's box I received 5 products and I really do enjoy them.

100% Pure -- Nourishing Body Cream

Full Size: $15.00 Sample Size: $0.37
I give this product 4 out of 5 stars. What -- Think green juice: This organic formula is full of anti-aging ingredients and concentrated moisture. How -- Massage a generous amount into skin, focusing on dry spots. 

Benefit Cosmetics -- Girl Meets Pearl
Full Size: $30.00 Sample Size: $18.75
I get this product 4 out of 5 stars. What -- This easy to apply highlighter gives skin a radiant finish. How -- Pat and blend into cheekbones, forehead or cupid's bow. Add to moisturizer for a pretty glow.

Number 4 -- Super Comb & Protect
Full Size: $85.00 Sample Size: $2.25
I give this product 4 out of 5 stars. What -- A sulfate free leave in conditioner that safeguards color and protects against UV rays. How -- Mist evenly onto damp hair before styling. 

Suits Pick -- Benta Berry -- G-1 Moisturizing Face Cream
Full Size: $22.00 Sample Size: $3.52
I give this product 4 out of 5 stars.What -- A French best seller, this cere3am both hydrates and purifies, thanks to blueberry and de3ad nettle. How -- Morning and night, massage into face after cleansing .

Beauty Extra -- Birchbox -- Bobby Pins
Full Size: $36.00 Sample Size: $1.94
I give this product 4 out of 5 stars. What -- We designed these patterned pins to add style to summer hair with minimal effort. How -- Jazz up simple ponytails or use to secure errant bangs or layers.


Ipsy Glam Bag -- On The Wild Side
I received 6 products and I really do enjoy them. Plus I received a Bauble Bar Bracelet that cost $30.00. 

Ipsy Bag
I give this month's bag 4.9 out of 5 stars.

Coola Organic Sun Care Collection -- Mineral Face SPF 20 Unscented Moisturizer 
Full Size: $36.00 Sample Size: $4.87
I give this product 5 out of 5 stars. Keep the sun and environment at bay with this SPF 20 broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen; a clear, Titanium Dioxide based formula (for those who are Zinc sensitive) made with 98% natural ingredients. Organic Acai Oil - high in Omegas-3/6/9, Vitamins B1/2/3, plus antioxidant Vitamins C and E - delivers a powerful defense against aging. Organic Sunflower Seed Extract promotes elasticity while organic Linseed Oil, containing Alpha-Linolenic Acids, reduces redness and irritation. The phyto-protector Plankton Extract rejuvenates, as organic Cucumber Extract calms skin.  This sunscreen is hypoallergenic, paraben-free, ultra sheer, anti-aging, and water resistant for 40 minutes.

Demeter Fragrance Library -- Salt Air Perfume Oil Roll On
Full Size: $25.00 Sample Size: $6.00 to $10.00
I get this product 5 out of 5 stars. I love this fragrance so much, they need to send me more perfume in my bag more often! Demeter Fragrance Library’s Perfume Oils come in over 250 scents. Their perfume oils provide a long lasting fragrance alternative while pampering your skin.

The Benefits:
• 97% Natural Ingredients
• Non-Alcohol
• Fractionated Coconut and Palm Kernel Oil, Jojoba Oil, Vitamin E
• Pampers and softens skin
• Easy-to-use roll-on applicator.

Provides a great, long-lasting scent on the run, at a great price! Apply to pulse points, wrists, and neck. Use as needed to refresh fragrance. Or, mix, match and layer them directly on the skin to create your own personal fragrance experience.

BH Cosmetics -- California Collection Eyeshadow
Full Size: $5.85 Sample Size: $7.00
I give this product 5 out of 5 stars. I love the color's in this palette so much! This BH Cosmetics makeup palette includes a shade from each of the California Collection palettes: Hollywood, San Francisco, and Malibu.

The San Francisco palette was inspired by the classic California city and style of San Francisco! This new magnetic paper palette brings together a beautiful mix of coppery golds and skyline blues reminiscent of the bridges and bay breeze. With 16 eyeshadows and 4 blushes, the San Francisco palette will transform you into a sophisticated bay-area girl, every time.

The Hollywood palette has you covered with red-carpet reds to limelight greens that are sure to take your look from ordinary to extraordinary! This makeup palette includes 16 eyeshadows and 4 blushes and comes in a compact magnetic paper palette.

Be a beach babe year-round with the Malibu makeup palette. Get that sun-kissed glow with 16 warm and cool-toned eyeshadows and 4 blushes, inspired by the hot summers on the Malibu coast. Select from deep blue and aqua to sandy browns and sunset oranges.  The full size magnetic palettes come with a fold able mirror, making it perfect for when you are on the go!


Pop Beauty Shakeup Your Makeup -- Pouty Pop Crayon in Fuchsia Flirt
Full Size: $25.00 for 6 Sample Size: $4.17
I give this product 5 out of 5 stars. Love the color! POP's Pouty Pop Crayon nourishes, treats, and adds that perfectly-plumped pop to lips. These extra-nourishing balms gently bounce onto lips creating a plumped & pillowy pout leaving them with luscious, long-lasting color with a super-smooth texture. Available in six shades.  Following shades available in the ipsy Glam Bag: Rose Romance, Coral Crush, and Fuchsia Flirt.

Sexy Hair -- Weather Proof Humidity Resistant Spray
Full Size: $18.95 Sample Size:$6.99
I give  this product 4 out of 5 stars. A high-performance humidity resistant spray that combats frizz by providing a protective barrier against moisture. Weather Proof promises to leave your hairstyles intact, removing any chance of humidity attacking mis-haps.

239- July 2013: Ipsy & Birchbox

Why These Nasty Dark Circles Appear?

Hey Beauties! This I'm sure everybody struggles with, including me. So, I'm here to tell you why we get them in the first place and how to get rid of them. So, let's get started!

1. There are many cases where I have seen dark circles as a heredity train. The skin that is located around the eyes is the most thinnest and delicate on the whole body. Dark circles that are under the eyes are actually blood vessels that you can see through the skin. They produce a dark bluish tint.

2. Another common factor of those dark circles are allergies. When you rub your eyes, it can break those small capillaries under the skin, which will cause discoloration and puffiness. If the root of the problem is allergies, then just treat those allergies.

3. It is also stated that dark circles under the eye could be a sign of kidney weakness.

4. Also, those dark circles and puffiness under the eyes are thought to be a deficiency in lack of antioxidants or vitamin K in the diet.

5. It is also believed that having a lack of mineral iron can be the cause.

6. Iron deficiency could point to anemia, which is a serious condition and will require some treatment.


WHAT TO DO??

1. Sleep in

Do you know what the first natural remedy is that we are going to tell you? This is one of the most common and important remedies. Do you know lack of sleep could be the cause of those dark circles? With that said, we believe you should start making sure you get at least seven to nine hour of sleep each night. It is believed that the average person needs at least eight hours of sleep each night so that they will not be tired throughout the day. It’s hard to believe that a simple technique such as getting more sleep could eliminate that problem. I try to get the required sleep each night so that I do not have those circles. However, if this technique does not work for you, then we highly recommend you moving forward to the next step.

2.  Eat Healthy

Believe it or not, what you eat really does count. When you eat healthy, have a balanced diet and drink lots of water, you may eliminate those annoying things under the eyes. You should also make sure you get lots of minerals and vitamins each day. Don’t forget to eat lots of vegetables and fruits. Cabbage, leafy greens and spinach are perfect. In fact, every day, you should consume at least two cups of spinach. Who wouldn’t want to eat spinach? I personally believe it is good.
You should stay away from foods that are too salty. Why, because those salty foods are known for causing your body to hold water. When you hold water in your body, you will get bloating and puffiness, especially noticeable under you eye.

3. Try Asian Pear

Have you ever heard of Asian pear? Asian pear is a crunchy and juicy fruit that has been in Chinese herbalists' minds for many years. Would you believe it if we told you this would be a way to lighten up those circles? Asian Pear, also known as Fuji pears have tons of antioxidants, copper and vitamin C in them.

4. Apply Washcloth

As you are sleeping, you can treat your skin. Right before you go to bed, put a washcloth over your eyes. The wash cloth should contain cold water. When morning time comes, you are going to notice an improvement in your eyes.

5. Try Cucumber and Tea Bags

This fifth method is something that is very popular and has been used throughout history. Get some cucumber slices and apply them to your eyes. If you do not want to use cucumber slices, then you can use tea bags and put them over your eyes. The cucumber slices are perfect for reducing the puffiness. The tannin, which is found in tea is perfect for getting rid of the discoloration and swelling. During this process, you will need to lay down, close your eyes and put the cucumber slices or caffeinated tea bags on your eyes. Make sure the cucumber slices are cold. You should do this method for ten minutes each day.

6. Eye Treatment Using Milk

First, you'll need cold skim milk. Second, you'll need either a tissue or a cotton pad. Using a tissue, it will soak up all the layers with milk. Squeeze out any excess milk before laying it on your eyes. This works instantly to de-puff your eyes because its very cold. Also, because the milk has lactive acid which will gentle exfoliate. You can leave this on for 5 minutes or longer.  

Smokey Purple Makeup Tutorial

Hey Beauties! I was playing around with this makeup I have listed down below and thought this would make a great tutorial. I mean, I love how this turned out and I hope you do too. At the end of this blog will be a video of me showing you guys how to put this look on. Enjoy!

Face
-Revlon Color Stay Liquid Foundation for Combination/Oily Skin in #110 Ivory [Mix this with Your Moisturizer to Create a Tinted Moisturizer!]  (Stippling Brush)
-NYC Smooth Skin Pressed Powder in #702A Naturally Beige (Powder Brush)
-NYC Smooth Skin Pressed Powder in #720A Sunny (Bronzer Brush)
-Santee Sun Kissed Mineral Formula Blush SPF 20 *Don't Know the Color Name [Use Any Peachy Coral Blush For This Look Only]  (Blush Brush)

Concealer
I suffer from sever under eye circles because I don't get too much sleep. So, I'm stuck using different kinds of concealer to cover them up. Depending on how bad they are, I'll reach for a specific one. I'll list every concealer that I do own and use. But remember, use whatever concealer you have on hand.
-Physicians Formula Youthful Wear 3-in-1 Concealer in Light + Yellow
-Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer in Fair
-Maybelline Cover Stick in Ivory
-MAC Pro Long Wear Concealer in NC15
-CoverGirl & Olay Simply Ageless Eye Concealer in #205 Very Light (Discontinued) 
-Mary Kay Concealer in Beige 1
-Maybelline Dream Lumi Touch Highlighting Concealer in Ivory
-Bare Minerals Stroke of Light Eye Brightener in Luminous 1
-CoverGirl TRUconceal Concealer in #2 (Discontinued) [Dupe CoverGirl Invisible Concealer in #115 Fair]
-Maybelline Fit Me Concealer in #35 Deep (Too Dark For Me)

Eye Brows
-Lorac Pro Eyeshadow in Espresso
-Essence Eyebrow Designer Pencil in #02 Brown

Eye Primer
-Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion
-MAC Paint Pot in Painterly
-L'Oreal Infallible Eyeshadow in #557 Glistening Garnet (Base; Lid) (Flat Brush)

Eyeshadow
-MAC Eyeshadow in Tease With Ease (Lid) (Eyeshadow Brush)
-Urban Decay Eyeshadow in Woodstock (Lid) (Eyeshadow Brush)
-Urban Decay Naked Eyeshadow in Buck (Crease) (Dome Brush and Blending/Crease Brush)
-Lorac Pro Eyeshadow in Deep Purple (Outer V) (Dome Brush and Blending/Crease Brush)
-Lorac Pro Eyeshadow in Nude (Brow Bone + Inner Corner Tear Duct) (Eyeshadow Brush) 

Eye Liner + Mascara
-NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in #605 Strawberry Milk (Water Line)
-Cailyn Line - Fix Gel liner in Purple (Outer Water Line)
-Maybelline Color Tattoo in #20 Painted Purple (Inner Corner Water Line)
-Rimmel London Scandal Eyes Eyeliner in #001 Black (Tight Line)
-Maybelline Master Precise Felt Tip Liner in Black (Line Top of Lid)
-Maybelline The Falsies Volum' Express Water Proof Mascara in Black Drama 

Lips
-Star Looks Lip Liner Pencil in #K337 Tipsy (Any Coral Lip Liner Will Suffice) With Any Clear Lip Gloss To Go On Top Of It
-Palladio Herbal Lip Gloss in #PGL70 Eleventh Gorgeous 787665

237- Smokey Purple Eye Tutorial

4th of July Makeup Tutorial

Hey Beauties! Happy 4th of July! I have this makeup look for you guys that was inspired by this day! So hope you guys enjoy this tutorial. At the end of this blog will be a video of me showing you guys how to put this look on. Enjoy!

Face
-Maybelline BB Cream in Light Sheer Tint (Stippling Brush)
-NYC Smooth Skin Pressed Face Powder in #702A Naturally Beige (Face Brush)
-Maybelline Cover Stick Concealer in Ivory (Concealer Brush) 
-Stila Convertible Color in Peony (Stipple Brush)
-NYX Blush in Angel (Blush Brush)

Eyes
-Salon Perfect Brow Defining Powder in Taupe
-Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion
-MAC Paint Pot in Painterly
-Lancome Palette in Colour Focus: Blur (Lid) (Eyeshadow Brush)
-Markwins Palette: Deep Sea & Blue Lagoon (Lid) (Eyeshadow Brush)
-NYX  Eyeshadow in #ES54 Cherry (Outer V) (Dome Brush and Blending/Crease Brush)
-Lancome Palette in Colour Focus: Daylight (Inner Corner) (Eyeshadow Brush)
-Blend Colors in the Crease Together
-Avon Glimmersticks Eye Liner in Blackest Black (Water Line & Tight Line)
-Maybelline Master Precise Felt Tip Liner in Black

Here are a variety of lip products you can choose from to finish this look off:
Lips
-NYC Appleicious Glossy Lip Balm in #356 Big Apple Red
-Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in #045 Romantic
-CoverGirl Lipstick in #305 Hot Passion
-Revlon Super Lustrous Matte Lipstick in #008 Cocoa Craving
-Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in #001 Honey








231- 4th of July Tutorial

June 2013: Ipsy, Birchbox & Influenster

Hi Beauties! Well, you guys seemed to really loved the collaboration video and blog I did last month for both Ipsy Glam Bag and Birchbox. Remember, the unboxing video is at the end of this blog. Plus, Influenster is making their special debut in this blog as well.

The theme for Ipsy Glam Bag is "On The Wild Side".
The theme for Birchbox is "Wonder Lust".
The theme for Influenster is "Spring Fever VoxBox". 

(Note: I really wish Ipsy that they would have sent in a card with all the information/pricing on it like Birchbox does and Influenster). I've been trying out these products that Birchbox have sent me on June 3rd, 11th & 17th, 2013 over the past few weeks and here are my thoughts on what I've thought about some of the products that they have sent to me.

Birchbox -- Wonder Lust
So, In this month's box I received 7 products and I really do enjoy them.

Color Club -- Wonder Lust Collection in Mod in Manhattan
Full Size: $8.00 Sample Size: $2.00
I give this product 4 out of 5 stars. Exclusive neon pastel shades inspired by four of our favorite cities. Two coats will give you an opaque, glossy finish. I really wish the would send me something more darker or brighter rather than sending me White all the time!

Miss Jessie's -- Original Jelly Soft Curls
Full Size: $14.00 Sample Size: $2.50
I get this product 4 out of 5 stars. This cult favorite is specifically formulated to leave curls defined and crunch free. Work a capful or more of product through damp curls.

Oscar De La Renta -- Something Blue
Full Size: $85.00 Sample Size: $2.25
I give this product 5 out of 5 stars. The brand's latest scent, a lovely blend of mandarin and linden blossoms. Spritz your wrists and neck before donning your finest frock. I love receiving sample size perfume in my box.

SW Basics - Lip Balm
Full Size: $15.00 Sample Size: $3.75
I give this product 4 out of 5 stars. A roster of organic and fair trade ingredients packed into a moisturizing handmade lip balm. Apply to dry lips as often as needed. 

Young Blood Mineral Cosmetics - Hi-Definition Hydrating Mineral Perfecting Powder
Full Size: $36.00 Sample Size: $1.94
I give this product 4 out of 5 stars. A shine-zapping mineral powder that keeps oil levels in check. Buff all over face after applying foundation. They need to send me something like this more often.

Destination Inspiration - Birchbox Postcards
Full Size: $? Sample Size: $2.50
I give this product 4 out of 5 stars. We're dreaming of a great trip and we're betting you are too. Inspired by our four global offices -- New York (Hello), London (Cheers), Paris (Bonjour) and Barcelona (iHOLA!) -- We've created an exclusive set of postcards. Keep them at your desk to spark your imagination or send them off to friends in far-off locales. Away we go!

Lifestyle Extra
Tweezerman -- Matchbox Itty Bitty Nail Files
Full Size: $5.00 Sample Size: $7.99
I give this product 3 out of 5 stars. 12 too-cute mini file's that is just asking to be added to your makeup bag. Smooth away any rough edges on the tips of your nails. 


Ipsy Glam Bag -- On The Wild Side
I received 5 full size products and I really do enjoy them. This really does make up for last month's bag.

Ipsy Bag
I give this month's bag 4.8 out of 5 stars. I wish that the zipper was on top rather it being in the middle of the bag.

Star Looks Lip Pencil in Tipsy
Full Size: $12.00 Sample Size: $N/A
I give this product 5 out of 5 stars. Love the color! 

NYX Blush in Angel
Full Size: $5.00 Sample Size: $N/A
I get this product 5 out of 5 stars. This color is  really pretty!

J. Cat Beauty Sparkling Cream Palette in SCP107 Suzie
Full Size: $4.49 Sample Size: $N/A
I give this product 4.9 out of 5 stars. I love the color's in this palette so much! But they say that it is a cream palette and I was expecting just that nevertheless, it's not a cream palette, it is a loose glitter pigment pressed into a palette. They need to change the name on this palette, it's false advertisement!


Cailyn Line-Fix Gel Eyeliner in Purple
 Full Size: $21.00 Sample Size: $N/A
I give this product 5 out of 5 stars. Love the color!

J. Cats Beauty Eyelashes + Eyelash Glue in EL66
Full Size: $3.99 Sample Size: $N/A
I give  this product 4 out of 5 stars. I'm still a beginner when it comes to fake lashes.


Influenster -- Spring Fever VoxBox
In this month's box I received 5 products and some of them I enjoyed.

Secret outlast Clear Gel Antiperspirant/Deodorant
Full Size: $4.59 Sample Size: $3.49
I give this product 2.3 out of 5 stars. Leaves fewer white marks on clothes than the next leading invisible solid and with 48 hour odor + wetness protection at such a low price, why pay more?

NYC New York Color Applelicious Glossy Lip Balm
Full Size: $2.99 Sample Size: $N/A
I get this product 5 out of 5 stars. Delivers color, shine and moisture in one single swipe! The unique apple-shaped core if filled with Shea Butter, Jojoba Oil, Vitamin E and Avocado Oil to give lips a healthy, irresistible look.

Broadway Nails imPRESS Press-on Manicure
Full Size: $7.99 Sample Size: $N/A
I give this product 4.5 out of 5 stars. Features advanced nail technology, so you can get a salon-perfect manicure in seconds. Simply peel off, press on and you're done. There's no drying, a killer shine and a manicure that lasts up to a week!

Schwarzkopf Professional Osis Rough Rubber
Full Size: $20.00 Sample Size: $12.70
I give this product 4.9 out of 5 stars. Is a paste with an innovative rubber consistency that separates and defines, while leaving a sublet matte finish.
Benefits:
-Innovative rubber consistency provides you with outstanding texturizing effects.
-Rough Moldable texture.
-Separates, defines and shapes as you wish.
-No-shine, subtle matte finish.
-Strong style control for thick hair but not overburdening for fine hair.
Steps:
1. Apply and emulsify a nickle size amount of OSIS Rough Rubber into the palms of your hands.
2. Rake your fingers through your hair lightly for even coverage.
3. Let your hair air dry.

Tastykake Kandy Bar Kakes in S'mores
Full Size: $4.49 per box Sample Size: $2.99
I give this product 5 out of 5 stars. Are light and fluffy chocolate enrobed cakes with a delicious creme filling in a unique kandy bar shape. Available in S'mores, Peppermint and Peanut Butter.


 230- June 2013: Ipsy, Birchbox & Influenster