Products I've Used Up: Would I Repurchase?

This was a long overdue video I can tell you that much. The last empties video I did was 7 months ago!! Where did the time go? After finally being fed up with my pile of used up beauty goods I decided it was time to share what I've used up and more importantly- would I repurchase?

Without further ado.....Here are my most recent used up beauty products....

DON'T FORGET TO WATCH IN HD!!

You can see more beauty vids if you stop in and check out my channel!! 

Dry Skin Winter Must Have Products & My New Hair!!!

It's that time of year when it becomes much colder and far more dry out and if you are anything like me and suffer from dry skin then you know that finding good products can often help with the dry skin symptoms. I have put together a list of products that are tried tested and true. These are the products I reach for to help me with my dry skin from head to toe.

I hope you find this video helpful if you are looking for a product to help or maybe you are looking to try something new! Don't forget to jump over to my beauty channel so you can like, comment & subscribe! 

Don't forget to get your name in for the chance to win $620 cash in the Winter Wonderland Giveaway!!

 Plus a look at my new hair cut and color! I was at the salon yesterday and I am sooooo happy with how it turned out!!

❤ Chow for now ❤

2013 Gift Guide: Spa In A Stocking

2013 Gift Guide: Spa In A Stocking by beautybykendrac featuring wick candles

A great gift idea is something that says luxury and relaxation. So I have created something called Spa In A Stocking and I think that if someone gifted this to me I would be over the moon! I think putting items together that set the stage for some down time in life is such a great gift! Especially after the crazy holiday season-down time is a must.

You can tailor the stocking for any budget and the items can be general or very specific-it just depends who you are giving it to. I selected a mixture of products that would be perfect for any gal in your life. Everyone wants to feel pampered right?! Here's what's in my stocking:

Origins Peace of Mind

If you haven't tired this product it is a dream come true. It's sensory therapy- which means it works both topically and through aromatherapy. You rub a small amount into your temples and behind your ears and let all your stress melt away!

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream

This is one on my Christmas wishlist and I have heard amazing things about this multi purpose cream. You can use it on your lips, dry skin, cuticles, etc. I can't think of anyone who wouldn't want to carry this around with them-especially this time of year.

LUSH

Nothing says relax a minute like LUSH. There are so many yummy choices, but grabbing something for the bath would be a great selection. I think a bubble bar or bath bomb would make the perfect spa stocking gift. Plus it will make the stocking smell heavenly when opening.

Body Shop Body Butter

I love the body butter from the Body Shop-there is a scent for everyone. They have so many different options you can really get specific for the person you are shopping for or some safe like the Coconut or Brazil Nut scents. These are so luxurious and are perfect for this time of year to keep the skin super hydrated.

EOS Lip Balm

These are little pots of heaven and they are perfect for the Spa In A Stocking gift. Keeping soft kissable lips is ideal for this time of year and a mint EOS lip balm is the way to go!

Aromatherapy Candle

I am obessesd with the Bath & Body Works Aromatherapy candles. They have so many amazing options-like the Stress Relief candle. I love this one on my bath tub ledge or when I am reading a book. It really makes all your cares go away leaving you feeling relaxed and stress free.

Luxurious Face Mask

There are so many amazing face masks out there right now and some of them can be found at your local drugstore. You can bet whoever you buy this for will really appreciate it! Putting on a luxurious face mask while sipping a tea and relaxing with an aromatherapy candle sounds pretty good doesn't it!

Essie Apricot Cuticle Oil

This is the best cuticle oil in my opinion and it is the perfect add on to this spa in a stocking. Keeping soft and hydrated from head to toe is always a bigger challenge in the winter months and your cuticles are no exception. It's in the small thoughtful details that make this stocking a real treat.

Remember to be creative and set up scenes that would allow whoever you are gifting the chance to use these products together to create a relaxed luxurious environment. You could also add in some hot cocoa packs or a yummy tea. Maybe a favorite magazine. Like I said you could use this as a secret Santa gift for the office party or someone really special like a friend, mother, sister,etc and it can be tailored for any budget you just have to put your thinking cap on!

Tweet #BBKC2013GiftGuide

The Winter Wonderland $620 Cash Giveaway [CLOSED]

Happy December 1st to all of you!! It is officially the holiday season and I couldn't be more excited. Everything about this time of year is always so over the top for me. The tree, decorating, baking, Christmas music- the list is endless. I can't believe the countdown is on!!

With Christmas just around the corner it is time to think about making your list and checking it twice. I experienced my first Black Friday as a Canadian girl living in Texas and I will say that I know first hand that Christmas shopping is in full swing.

That being said I am so excited to announce a giveaway that I am a part of!! The Winter Wonderland $620 Cash Giveaway. Once lucky winner is going to be singing fa-la-la-la-la when they walk away with 620 big ones just in time for the Christmas season!! So check out the Rafflecopter below to enter and while your at it check out some of amazing ladies I teamed up with!

Ready...set....go- Happy holidays and good luck!!!

Ashley Brooke    |    Mash Elle    |    Diary of A Debutante    |    Stilettos & Sequins

My Life Well Loved    |    Ladies in Navy    |    Covering The Bases    |    BKCSquared

Southern Curls & Pearls    |    Pursuit of Pink    |    A Vintage Splendor    |    A Southern Style

Perfectly Coutured    |    A Fancy Affair    |    Just Bri    |    PinkSole    |    Penniless Socialite

    Moda And The Mar    |    Book of Leisure    |    Ashton Wears Things    |    Champagne Lifestyle on A Beer Budget    |    Beauty By Kendra C

Perlier Imperial Honey Body Butter Review

I am a girl who is completely obsessed with anything that smells or tastes like honey. I think in another life I might have been a honey bee. There are very few beauty products on the market that can actual capture that succulent sweet scent correctly and I am always up for trying a new product that mentions honey in any way. So when I had the opportunity to try the *Perlier Imperial Honey Body Butter there was zero hesitation. Bring on the honey!

A little background on this product before I dive into my review. This body butter is made from the rare honey of Black Bees and is combined with Royal Jelly. Now I bet you are asking what is Royal Jelly? I know I did and after doing some research found out that it is a honey bee secretion and is used in the nutrition of larvae. Doesn't sound very appetizing, but it has been shown to reduce signs of aging and has been used medically to boost the immune system. [According to webmd.com]

On to the review. I have to say after using this product over the past couple of weeks I am completely in love. I am a huge fan of body butter to start with because of my insanely dry skin. I find that they provide a better solution then the typical body lotion. What I love about this body butter in particular is that it is super hydrating, but the formula is very light and doesn't leave me feeling greasy and my skin literally drinks this up and I have noticed a huge change in the texture of my skin. It is baby soft.

I love the scent of this body butter probably more then any other body butter I have tried! EVER! The scent is described as Honey and Oriental woods and when I first saw honey I thought ok I have experienced a honey scent before. No I have not. Not like this. It smells as though you have opened a fresh jar of raw honey. You could almost eat it- although it does a have a beautiful musky bottom note. Which I would assume is the Oriental woods. This product has a sweet warm scent that is perfect for this time of year. I have received many compliments and many people asking what I am wearing. The other point to make about this body butter is the fact that the scent lasts all day! At the end of the day it smells as if I just put it on- which I love because it is such an amazing fragrance and that almost never happens with a body butter.

I must compliment this product on the packaging too! If you read my blog you know that I am a packaging junkie. I love the gold and white jar- it adds to the luxury of this product. I have used a *body scrub by Perlier before and I think that they do a really nice job of their product packaging and the overall presentation of their products. You can check out my review here.

All in all I think that this is a definite must have for the winter months. If you are looking for a luxurious body butter that will hydrate and improve the overall texture of your skin then this is your solution. Plus there is that whole it smells exactly like honey thing.

The Perlier Imperial Honey Body Butter is 6.7oz and runs about $40.00- which is on the high end of body butters, but would make for a great Christmas gift for someone special. My readers can save $5.00 using the coupon code iFabbo5 when you pick it up here: http://bit.ly/GT2CdC

You can also find out more about the Perlier company and all their products here:

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Have you tried any of the Perlier products?

2013 Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffers For Him

Stocking Stuffers For Him by beautybykendrac featuring Travalo

It's time for another 2013 Gift Guide post and this time it's for that special man in your life! Coming up with stocking stuffers for that special guy can be tough sometimes so I have compiled a little list to hopefully help you out this year. I like to stock my guy's stocking with both practical and special gifts. Guys love practical, yet it's nice to spoil them a bit too, but ONLY if they've been good this year!!! Click on to find out what I chose and why!!

The Sweater Weather Tag

There is a tag going around called the Sweater Weather Tag and I thought this was such a cute appropriate tag to participate in since we are in the full swing of Fall and the holiday season is right around the corner! It is a mish mash of cute Fall related questions that I couldn't wait to share with you.

 You can check my answers out on my beauty channel and I am tagging all of YOU to take part in this seasonal tag! Please remember to tweet, comment or email me your links so that I can see what your answers are!

I also wanted to mention that I announced on Twitter the other day that once my beauty channel hits 250 subscribers I will be doing my first EVER giveaway!! So make sure to hit that SUBSCRIBE button!! ❤❤ Thanks for all the support!! ❤❤ You can also help spread the word by hitting the tweet button below:

Tweet #BBKC250SubsGiveaway

So if you want to take part-here are all the questions:

1. Favorite candle scent?

2. Coffee, tea, or hot chocolate?

3. What's the best fall memory you have?

4. Which makeup trend do you prefer: dark lips or winged eyeliner?

5. Best fragrance for fall?

6. Favorite Thanksgiving food?

7. What is autumn weather like where you live?

8. Most worn sweater?

9. Must-have nail polish this fall?

10. Football games or jumping in leaf piles?

11. Skinny jeans or leggings?

12. Combat boots or Uggs?

13. Is pumpkin spice worth the hype?

14. Favorite fall TV show?

15. What song really gets you into the fall spirit?

❤ Chow for now ❤

2013 Holiday Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffers You Can't Go Wrong With...For Her

Stocking Stuffers You Can't Go Wrong With by beautybykendrac featuring wick candles

Tis the season again and I couldn't be more excited! I am especially excited, because this week is the kickoff of my Holiday Gift Guide. Over the next few weeks I will be sharing different Holiday Gift Guides for the different types of people you might be buying for this year-as an effort to make the shopping season less hectic.

So without further ado let's get started with the first addition of my Holiday Gift Guide 2013- Stocking Stuffers You Can't Go Wrong With-for that special friend, cousin, sister, mother...you get the idea.

1. The Travalo

This is such a great gift idea, because it is so practical and versatile that anyone will love it. You can fill any perfume [your favorite perfume] and take it with you. These little miracles can hold up to 50+ sprays and come in any color you can imagine. Brilliant and she's gonna love that you are possibly saving her from breaking her favorite bottle of perfume somewhere along the way.

2. The Beauty Blender

Oh I am sure this has been on the stocking stuffer | gift lists for the past several years, but if it ain't broke don't fix it. She is going to love getting this, because if she doesn't have one you just introduced her to possibly the best foundation applicator EVER or she has one, but come on let's be honest who doesn't love back stock of the Beauty Blender.

3. Gel Eye Mask

Ok this one is a no brainer- a cooling gel eye mask for the fridge is just what the beauty doctor ordered. Not only is it totally relaxing and necessary for those days when you have just had enough, but you can find them in fun shapes, colors, and even themes. Like this one- the Anti Hangover Eye Coolers in cute little cucumbers. How presh right?! You are sure to get a giggle for that one!!

4. LUSH Bath Melt

So LUSH is kind of a necessity in the world of women. It is the answer to creating the perfect bath at the end of the day | week. She will love you for this one for sure! Not only does LUSH make products that smell amazing and make you skin super nourished, but there is literally something for everyone on any budget!

5. A Beauty Mag

This is a great gift, because it's simple and you know there is a magazine out there for pretty much any type of gal on your list. It's thoughtful and gives her something to do while she's unwinding from the holiday chaos.

6. Essie Good To Go

This is a staple in my opinion. Essie's Good To Go is the perfect gift, because even if she isn't big into painting her nails. This must have topcoat will make any natural nail look glossy and over-the-top healthy! It has the most amazing gel-like finish. If she is into painting her nails-she will thank you not only for the gel-like finish it's going to give her favorite polish, but her nails will be dry to the touch in about a minute. You just saved her the boredom of sitting waiting for her nails to dry. That's good friend status!!

7. EOS lip balm

Another product that made a huge splash over the past few years are the EOS lip balms. These yummy little numbers are great for any gal on your list. You are saving her lips from winter weather, plus these are all natural and there is a flavor for everyone.

8. Tangle Teezer

This is a brush that every woman should own.  It is going to save her hair from breakage and the pain the of brushing out those pesky knots. Probably a gift that not everyone would think of and she will thank you for not only saving her hair, but for giving a not so obvious gift.

9. Ear buds

This one is another stocking stuffer that I think is brilliant. Not everyone will think of it and who wouldn't love some cute personalized ear buds. Ear buds are a necessity now with pretty much everyone carrying some type of music playing device-giving these will show her that you think out of the box. I love the skull ones shown above, but they come in so many colors and even characters-there is something for everyone!

10. Bath & Body Works Shea Infused Socks

OMG! These are THE best stocking stuffer-EVER!! If you haven't had the immense pleasure of trying these then I suggest you do!! They are so comfy, soft and cute-but they make your feet so incredibly soft! Shea infused socks are they way to go for any gal on your list!! Trust me she will thank you for it!!

11. Bath & Body Works Candle

These are possibly the best candles. I love that you can buy pretty much any scent for anyone. They have the best holiday themed candles from scent to label design. These would make a great stocking stuffer, especially if you are giving bath goodies! It makes for a nice night in the tub for her! Relax in candlelight to her favorite scent!!

12. iTunes Gift Card

I think that an iTunes gift card is the way to go. You are giving her the opportunity to order her favorite new album, songs she's wanted, or her favorite movie. Goes great with the theme of this stocking. She can light her favorite candle, put on her shea infused socks, and watch her favorite movie! Now that's a great gift!!

I hope you enjoyed my first 2013 Holiday Gift Guide post. I think that this would be a dream stocking for me and I don't think you can go too wrong with any of these ideas! So many of the gifts can be customized for the special gal in your life!!

 Tweet #BBKC2013GiftGuide

Yes To Blueberries Cleansing Facial Towlettes Review

I am a firm believer in removing my makeup before bed. I know that I am human and there are some nights when being tired out weighs taking off my makeup, but I would say about 98.9% of the time I take of my makeup before bed.

I have a skincare routine video where I talk about all the products I use and what my am | pm skincare routine looks like. I am the type of girl to use the trial and error process of elimination to narrow down what works for me, but once I find one it isn't very often that I let another product into that exclusive routine of products and right now I am super happy with my skincare routine and it is working really well for me, so I was really hesistant to even add in a new makeup remover wipe. After all you never know what is going to throw off the balance-especially with my dry | very sensitive skin type.

However, I couldn't resist when I came across the Yes To Blueberry Cleansing Facial Towelettes while I was browsing Target. First of all I must compliment this brand on their packaging it is super cute and really drew me in. It's fun and really defines each skincare type within the line.

Now I have only been using these for about a week, but I just had to share them with you guys, because I am completely in love with these and they are AH-mazing!! I have never in my life used a makeup wipe that is so efficient at actually removing makeup and I've used alot. By the time I get to the point of using my Sirius Sonic Skincare System with my Philosophy Purity Made Simple cleanser, there is barely anything left on my skin. I also want to say that these wipes smell amazing-such a fresh invigorating scent.

I know that blueberries have really effective benefits for the skin. They are high in Vitamin C which can help to repair cell damage and are high in antioxidants as well- which help fight free radicals [ie.pollution and environmental] that cause skin damage. So it was interesting to find a cleansing wipe that had such a concentrated ingredient of blueberry [it's the 3rd ingredient]. I also was really excited to see that it contained apple and lemon. Apple, because it helps to balance the PH of the skin and lemon is an astringent that helps to kill bacteria. Both being the 5th and 6th ingredients which means a higher concentration overall.

They are very moistened compared to alot of the makeup remover wipes I have used and come in a pack of 40 for about $4.99 at Target. I was a little worried when I purchased them at first, because that is a bit pricey compared to other makeup wipes, but I can honestly say these far succeed any makeup wipe I have used so they are definitely worth it.

I also love that they are completely compostable, made from FSC fabric [which means the material that makes the cleansing wipes comes from sustainable forestry practices] and they are paraben free.

I really recommend these wipes and have definitely found a new product that I can add to my skincare routine that cuts down time, cleans my skin effectively, and is improving the overall quality of my skin with each use.

Have you tried any of the Yes To products?

Tweet #BBKCSkincare
 

Fall Must Have: Revlon Colorstay Adventurous Palette

In the spirit of the season I have been on the lookout for some good go-to drugstore palettes. It's no big surprise the main players that line our CVS, Walgreen and Target shelves have really stepped up their games with regards to pigmentation, longevity, and overall formula. Drugstore products aren't what they used to be so when you find a really really great one you want to shout it from the rooftops. Well guess what? I have found one and I'm shouting!!

The Revlon Colorstay palette in 515 Adventurous is be-a-u-ti-ful!! I can't even begin to tell you how much I love love love this little drugstore gem. This is my first Revlon Colorstay palette and I can see myself going back for more of these.

First let me say that this palette will look amazing on any skin tone. It is a quad palette that comes with a frosty golden off white, a golden olive, a shimmering bronze with slight gold shimmer suspended throughout, and a matte medium brown. I have to say I was really excited to see three shimmers paired with such a beautiful matte brown. This gives the palette such versatility as far as creating different looks.

Another point that really impresses me is the packaging. It is really great considering it is from the drugstore. I am BIG on packaging (as I have mentioned in previous posts). It add something extra to the product and there is nothing worse then super flimsy drugstore packaging. It causes all kinds of problems. Ahem....product destruction inside purse or favorite makeup bag. Grrrrr

I swatched the colors with the Urban Decay eyeshadow primer potion underneath, because you would more then likely want to use an eye primer with most eyeshadows, especially those from the drugstore. You can see from the photo above exactly how pigmented these shadows are and what great colors for the Fall/Winter season. I am already planning a tutorial for my beauty channel using this palette so stay tuned!

I really do recommend this one- it is a great neutral palette with rich colors that will create gorgeous looks for this season. [Shop the Revlon Colorstay Adventurous palette below.]

Have you tried this palette? If not, would this be a palette you would use over Fall/Winter?

Revlon Eye Shadow

Tweet #BBKCMustHave

My Top 10 Fall Lipsticks

DON'T FORGET TO WATCH IN HD!!!

I have put together a list of lipsticks that I will be reaching for over the Fall months and into the winter months. When it comes to Fall I can't help, but want to reach for the berry, red, and vampy shades. I hope you enjoy this video and please let me know what your favorite Fall lipsticks are!

Please head over to my beauty channel and subscribe for more beauty related videos!!

Tweet #Top10ForFall

My Fall Beauty Wishlist

Elizabeth Arden Face Makeup · Urban Decay Makeup · Sephora Eye Makeup

It's always so much fun to put together a wishlist of beauty items and then share! I love finding out what other beauty gals are thinking about purchasing and why! So here are some of the items that I have my eye on for the season! I hope you enjoy!

1. TIGI S Factor Shampoo & Conditioner

I have been wanting to try this for a while now. I have heard other beauty bloggers talk about this duo and they have raved about how hydrating it is. I have tried so many TIGI products and some are great and some not so much. Since I haven't tried anything from this brand in a while I thought it would be great to start with this line. I have been holding off because I wanted to use up what I am currently using, but I have been having to shake the 'you know what' out of my shampoo and conditioner bottles- so any day now!

2. LORAC Pro Palette

I can't tell you how gorgeous this palette is and how I can't wait to get my hands on it! I was in Ulta the other day and swatched everything and this is definitely a winner for this time of year. I use my Naked Palette so much that I really need to branch out on my neutral palettes, as much as it pains me. This would be a great palette to travel with, since it has everything you need to create an everyday look!

3. Urban Decay Vice 2 Palette

I think this palette is going to be the ultimate holiday season palette. It has all the rich jewel tones that would be great for the parties and holiday festivities! Yet, it also has the basic shades you would need to create an everyday eye. I love love love Urban Decay eyeshadows, they are so easy to work with and have some of the best pigmentation and blend-ability that I have ever seen! Another brilliant move by Urban Decay!

4. Stila Kitten

I am probably the last beauty gal to have not tired this eyeshadow, but I have so many other great highlight eyeshadows that I couldn't justify it, but again feeling the need to branch out I think this would be a great one to have as a go-to!

5. Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream

This seems like it is another holy grail product that I have heard so much about- I am finally going to have to breakdown and grab it. It is a versatile product that would be great to keep in my bag since you can use it pretty much everywhere and I have such dry skin that I am sure I would appreciate it so much.

6. Prada Candy

Ahhhh, this smells so amazing!!! I didn't realize how great this would actually smell until I got a whiff of it the other day! It is sweet, but not overly sweet and I think would be the perfect holiday fragrance! YUM- it's like a holiday dessert!

7. Urban Decay Naked Basics Palette

Again, I am probably the last beauty gal to have not tried this. I hadn't even swatched it or look at it in person until the other day! Shame on me, I know! :( It is a great little palette though and I liked it way more than I thought I would.

Please let me know if you have tried any of these products and what you thought! It's great to have some more feedback before purchasing!!

Also, what is on your beauty wishlist right now??

Perlier Volcanic Thermo Renewing Scrub

For the past week and a half I have been using the *Perlier Thermal Scrub and I have to say this is to date my absolute favorite body scrub. I have tried many different scrubs- some terrible, some ok, but nothing like this! It is a spa quality product that you can have at home in your shower and that is something that doesn't happen very often.

I have said it before and I will say it again I have extremely dry skin which makes it difficult to find products that can help soften, hydrate, and maintain. Over the years there have been a handful of products that can actually improve the quality of my skin type. The Perlier Thermal Scrub is a solution oriented product because in only a week and a half it has drastically improved the texture of my skin. Proof is in the product. Let's talk exfoliating...

At first glance this scrub is the most beautiful Caribbean ocean blue color that fully represents its spa like intended appearance. Let's be honest- appearance always adds that something special. The product's texture is a crystallized rock and is suspended in a skin softening gel base.

I also have to mention the scent of this product it's fresh and reminds me of the initial relaxation you get when walking into a spa-compliments the product very well.

 
Micro-nutrients extracted from volcanic rock and water from hot springs located in Italy makes this body scrub an exclusive experience. Large mineral particles combined with Thermal water transform the texture of the skin with the help of finer powders to remove unwanted dead skin cells while softening and hydrating. Even after leaving the shower my skin has stayed consistently soft throughout the day which speaks volumes for what this product can actually do. Often times shower scrubs remove dead skin cells, but rarely have the power to soften the skin and keep it soft throughout the day.

As I mentioned before I have noticed a huge improvement in the texture of my skin, but even more I have noticed that certain dry patches have been relieved. All in all this product is definitely a keeper. I will continue to use this scrub and highly recommend it to those who struggle with dry skin. A perfect product to pick up for the Fall | Winter season to help soothe the winter skin blues we all fall victim to.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

 6.7 fl oz. | 200 ml

Ingredients: AQUA (WATER), GLYCERIN, POLYETHYLENE, SODIUM POLYACRYLATE, PUMICE, SILICA, OLIVINE EXTRACT, PARFUM (FRAGRANCE), IMIDAZOLIDINYL UREA, METHYLCHLOROISOTHIAZOLINONE, METHYLISOTHIAZOLINONE, BUTYLPHENYL METHYLPROPIONAL, HYDROXYISOHEXYL 3-CYCLOHEXENE CARBOXALDEHYDE, LINALOOL, HEXYL CINNAMAL, CI 42090 (BLUE 1). 

If you are interested in trying this product I want to offer you a $5.00 coupon. Simply click the link below and use iFabbo5 in the coupon code when checking out!!

Try the Perlier Volcanic Thermo Renewing Scrub for yourself here!

Will you be trying this scrub?

Favorite Highlighting Products

Creating even skin tone with a healthy glow is a task that often times takes some trial and error. Finding the right combination of products can take time, but when you do find that perfect combination it is glorious. It takes alot of the work out of an everyday makeup routine, creates an unspoken confidence, and takes ones makeup look to the next level.

Part of the battle is finding a product that effortlessly highlights the face, without looking too overdone or leaving the skin looking greasy. I have three amazing products that I like to rotate to achieve my fresh faced glow and I wanted to share those products with you today!

Girl Meets Pearl is a product that I have been using over the summer months and I can't believe it took me so long to incorporate into my routine. It has the most amazing pearl base with slightly pinkish undertones to help offset dull lifeless skin. The perfect pick me up for any skin tone or skin type. An instant burst of radiance. A bonus feature is that it is in a liquid form which allows this product the flexibility to be used on its own or added directly into a foundation. The sheer, lightweight formula is infused with nourishing ingredients like sesame seed oil, raspberry, chamomile, and sweet almond seed extract. A light reflecting product that helps improve the skin's overall texture.

A product that has changed the way a view highlighting is MAC's Cream Color Base in Pearl- a gift to those who wear makeup. Pearl is a pale gold with a frosty shimmer that can be worn alone or layered over foundations, powders, and worn on its own. This product is beautifully textured and melts into the skin leaving an unbelievable dewy glow. I also love using this cream color base as an all over the lid eyeshadow. I find that this product is best applied warmed up in the fingertips and gently tapped into the skin.

Last, but not least and a long time favorite L'oreal's Magic Lumi Light Infusing Primer holds up against the high end brands in terms of highlighting products. This light infusing liquid offers a boost to any skin type and it's lightweight formula makes it easy to build up intensity. For the past few months I have been adding it directly to my foundation to increase the overall luminosity of my skin. If I want to target specific areas with this product I find it is best used to apply with a stippling brush using a tapping motion. Another application for this product is use over freshly moisturized skin for day to day illumination.

Sephora Face Luminizer · Macy's Makeup · L'Oreal Face Primer

What are your favorite highlighting products?

Epsom Salt Baths

I am a huge fan of bath time. There is nowhere else I would rather be after a long day then in the tub with some bubbles, a book and something to sip on. It is a place where I can unwind and regroup. I am sure so many of you are in love with LUSH bath products. I have been a huge fan for years, but every now and then I find a one off bath product that I get really excited about. I have recently found myself reaching for the Dr. Teal's Epsom Salts. I pick mine up at my local grocery store. I love how accessible they are!

Now I know what you're thinking, boring- right? WRONG! First of all they come in so many different scents like:

Eucalyptus Spearmint {the one I am currently using}
Rosemary Mint
Milk & Honey
Lavender
Chamomile

These bath salts are incredibly fragrant and add a little something extra to a relaxing bath time. There is one other reason I have been using bath salts aside from the scent. They work wonders on sore tired muscles or just any aches and pains in general.

I soak in the tub for about 20 minutes and once I leave the tub any muscle pain, foot pain, or body pain in general is gone. I suffer from terrible upper back and neck pain from all the years I spent cutting hair with my arms elevated constantly and through all the treatments I do it still causes me alot of pain from time to time. I find that the Epsom salts truly do work and I now swear by them.

So I did a little reading and found out that Epsom salts are good for more then just the aches and pains. Here what I found out:

1. They can increase your magnesium intake by soaking in through your bath water. Magnesium helps produce a chemical in the brain called serotonin which relieves stress and is a mood booster. It also plays an important part in our everyday bodily function and alot of people in today's society are low in magnesium. So bath away!!

2. Epsom salts help flush away the lactic acid in the body improving muscle function.

3. They can help with swelling, including sprains, bug bites and even sunburn.

4. The salts also work as a detox for the body, helping improve the immune system.

I always add about 2 cups of salts about 3-4 times a week and I have found that my body doesn't hurt as much anymore. I am currently loving the Eucalyptus Spearmint for relaxation, but I also love the Milk & Honey for softening my skin, plus the honey scent is amazing! For more information you can visit Dr. Teal's website!

Do you use Epsom salts in your bath?

Rave Review: Dove Invigorating Dry Shampoo

I know there has been so much talk lately about dry shampoos and it seems that every haircare company has 'attempted' to conquer the perfect formula. Many end up with huge fails leaving a trail of frustrated every-other-day-washers. I will admit at first I wasn't going to buy into this fad, but the buzz left it inevitable. I recently did a review on a dry shampoo  {TIGI Rockaholic Dry Shampoo} that I completely fell in love with, but I recently discovered a big fail and it was back to square one. The problem being, the nozzle works when it wants to and so it inconsistently is there for me. Which can't happen when you are two days unwashed and your greasy hair needs a fix.

I recently discovered the Dove Invigorating Dry Shampoo and after a week and a half of use it IS the best dry shampoo to date. Let me tell you why I love this drugstore gem.

First of all it works all the time. There is no nozzle failure, which might not seem like a big deal, but it is when that is the only way to get this type of product out of its container. The spray itself is quite alot of product so I suggest spritzing vs holding the nozzle. Which is great because it means a little goes a long way.

I also love the scent of this product, which is another huge factor when you are spraying it on your unwashed hair. You want to not only look like you are freshly washed, but you need to smell like you are too. This has the most amazing fresh scent. Bonus!

The flip side being that it needs to preform which is the most important I will admit. I wasn't disappointed at ALL. It is quick to absorb the oil and gives my hair that extra lift and bounce just as I had freshly washed it and it lasts throughout the day. Some products I find hold up for half the day or even a few hours before the hair begins looking oily and flat again. No worries with this product.

I also haven't noticed any product build up from this product, so it's safe to say that it washes away without any problems. Something I like to watch for when trying a new product. I also like to watch for any signs of extra dehydration. Something else to watch for when trying a new product that has alot of alcohol content in the ingredients.

It's always great when a drugstore product can replace a professional haircare product, because this means you will immediately save money which I am ALWAYS ok with. The Rockoholic Dry Shampoo is around the $20 a bottle mark whereas the Dove comes in at a brilliant $4 a bottle!! Great, right!!?

Downfalls? The only 'downfall' if you can call it that is the fact that the Dove is a 5oz bottle and the Rockaholic is a 6.3oz bottle, but for the price point I can overlook a slightly smaller product amount.

All in all I do recommend trying this dry shampoo. It is a diamond in the rough and really holds up against the professional brands!
 

What is your go-to dry shampoo? Would you try the Dove Dry Shampoo?

Empties: Beauty Products I've Used Up

 DON'T FORGET TO WATCH IN HD FOR A BETTER VIDEO EXPERIENCE!

 This summer I really concentrated on trying to use up beauty products that I already had instead of rushing out to purchase more. I wanted to use the money that I would spend on beauty products to go towards summer fun- like vacation, travel and the things I don't typically get to do throughout the year!

I feel like I was really successful and so I decided to do another empties video showing you what I've used up and whether or not I would repurchase the product!

Head over to my channel to SUBSCRIBE for more beauty related videos!

Victoria's Secret: Bombshell

Hello Gorgeous! That's what comes to mind when I get a whiff of this fragrance! The Victoria's Secret Bombshell perfume is AH-mazing without a doubt. It is one of my favorites out of all the fragrances I received in the gift pack. It's sweet and sassy at the same time and when I smell it from the bottle it smells as though it would be fizzy, like a mimosa!

This perfume would be a great daytime perfume year round, but is also full enough to pass for a date night dinner on a patio or curling up for a movie on the couch. 

Product Details:

Fragrance Title: Floral

Scent:
Top notes: Tangelo, pineapple, strawberry, purple passion fruit
Middle notes: Jasmine, red berries, muguet, Shangri-la peony, vanilla orchid
Dry-down notes: Musk, blonde woods, oakmoss

I pick up the pineapple, jasmine, peony, and vanilla orchid.

Price per bottle:

1.7oz: $52.00
3.4oz: $68.00
.2oz:   $15.00 {Rollerball}

Like all Victoria's Secret fragrances this can be purchased in:

Body Mist
Body Wash
Body Lotion
Luminous Body Powder

Is this a perfume that you would consider wearing?

Hydroxatone Review

I am always on the look out for great skincare products. I truly believe that great skin is the foundation for looking/feeling great with or without makeup. When I was younger I always took the time to give my skin a basic wash and a good moisturize, but as the years go on I feel that it is really important to take the time to become more specific about my skin's needs.

I have extremely dry skin, sensitive skin. A tricky combination at times. At the moment I have a really great skincare routine, but I am always willing to try new products. For the past couple of weeks I have been using a new face cream- *Hydroxatone AM/PM Anti-Wrinkle Complex. Now it's no big surprise that I just had my birthday and turned the big 31. Now more then ever I think it's important to take the steps to prevent the attacks of aging. The best I can anyway and one way to do that is to use products that are going to help counteract those attacks.

This lotion peaked my curiosity because of the formula's features. Now I have only been using this lotion for a short period of time and I wanted to give my initial reaction and I will definitely do an update once I have used it all up so that I can give my long term review. For now let's talk about what I think thus far.

This face cream is a morning and night application that contains SPF 15. I think having a face cream with SPF is always a good idea. It adds extra protection against the sun's damaging effects. It also contains Hyaluronic Acid which is naturally found in the human body. This acid has the ability to retain moisture, increasing the skin's smoothness. Maytrixyl3000 helps promote natural levels of collagen, hyaluronic acid and fibronectin {a fibrous protein that binds to collagen}. Argireline is an anti-aging peptide {short chains of amino acid} that provides fast results.

Let's talk packaging. I think that the packaging is nice, your typical 1oz jar. I was really drawn to the cobalt blue color and I will say the jar is solid. Without a doubt well made. One thing I will mention that I have talked about before is having to dip fingers into a face cream jar. Make sure you are using clean fingers or a sanitized spatula to prevent bacteria growth.

The texture of the cream is silky and does a really great job of absorbing quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy aftermath. My skin feels really hydrated and I have experienced no burning or irritation, which speaks volumes because my skin is extremely sensitive. I also want to mention the scent. It has a sunscreen scent, which I really like. It's light and reminds me of summer days laying on the sand at the beach.

All in all I am really impressed with this cream. It feels luxurious, leaves my skin super hydrated, and I really like the texture of my skin this far. Whether you have mature skin or are looking to start the prevention steps of anti-aging this cream has my seal of approval. Would I try other products from this line based on my experience this far...Absolutely! My skins seems to really appreciate me using this product and if my skin likes it that's good enough for me.

You can check out the Hydroxatone AM/PM  Anti-Wrinkle Complex here.

Do you think about anti-aging prevention when purchasing skincare products? 

Victoria's Secret: Very Sexy

I am kicking off a little series that will review a handful of Victoria's Secret fragrances. Last Christmas I was given a gift pack of perfumes and up until recently had only tried one, which I have done a review on. I thought it would be helpful if I shared my thoughts on the others in case one of you are looking for a new perfume. I will be doing my reviews throughout the month of August. So stayed tuned for more!

The first fragrance I want to share is the Victoria's Secret Very Sexy perfume. I'll start off by saying that this is a scent that I wouldn't normally like. It's very spicy and warm and is very grown up. After stepping outside my box and wearing it I have to say that I love this fragrance. It makes me feel very sophisticated, downtown, drenched in pearls. It's unspoken confidence in a bottle.

Product Details:

Scent:

"Vanilla orchid, sun-drenched clementine, midnight blackberry."

I definitely can detect the vanilla, but it's a unique warm/spicy vanilla. Not your typical sweet vanilla.

Price per bottle:

1oz -   $42.00
2.5oz- $52.00
3.4oz- $62.00

This fragrance can also be purchased in a body wash, body lotion, and fragrance mist. Another bonus feature about a Victoria's Secret fragrances. It can be found in other bath/beauty products. So if you like the scent but don't want to commit to the perfume you have other options.

I am very happy with this fragrance and if you are looking to try something new I would recommend stopping by Victoria's Secret to sample it. This is definitely a summer time evening wear- a date night or a day to day fall/winter wear because of how warm and full the scent is.

Would you wear a fragrance like this?