August Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

Happy September! I don't know about all of you, but I'm very much ready for the fall.
In August, I didn't purchase very many new beauty products but I did find a lot of other odds and ends, mostly school related, that I'm loving.

Beauty Products

• Burt's & Bees Intense Hydration Night Cream with Clary Sage
My skin has been looking a little dull lately.  I've been using masks weekly but decided I should probably add a night cream to my skincare routine.  I had multiple coupons at CVS and didn't really know what to purchase, this was an impulse purchase I actually didn't return.  It's like a drink of cold water for your face; I can actually feel this sinking into my skin and working before bed.

• L'Oreal Voluminous Full Definition Mascara
MakeupByTiffanyD swore this was a dupe for Armani Eyes to Kill Mascara, I've never tried that mascara so I can't agree or disagree.  However, this is definitely my new favorite drugstore mascara; it really separates and lengths your lashes. 

• Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover
When it comes to most skincare, I've been a high-end snob the past few years.  I've been loving the Neutrogena Night Calming Wipes for a long time now.  I spotted this remover on sale at Target for $4.00 and decided it was worth a try.  This actually works better than my beloved Clinique Take the Day Off Eye Makeup Remover.

• OPI Nail Lacquer in German-icure by OPI
I purchased this the day the Germany collection hit stores and it's the only polish I've worn all month.  It's a vampy brownish red with shimmer color, so pretty and perfect for fall!  I hope to purchase a few other colors from this collection.

Random

• Aladdin Chill Snack Pack 
Unless my classes get out early, I don't really have a lunch break.  In the past years, I'd usually just throw a few snacks into my backpack and eat those.  The majority of the snacks were ridiculously unhealthy.  I didn't want to carry around a lunchbox and nothing is worse than warm fruit in a Ziploc back.  I found this little invention on sale at Target (under $3.00.) It's a small Tupperware that has a  thin (removable) icepack which snaps into the lid.  It's easy to throw this into your backpack and enjoy cool, crisp fruit in class. (The only con: the Tupperware isn't sweat-proof.)

• Baggu reusable bags
I've been eying these bags for awhile.  When my co-worker showed up with one at work I decided it was finally time to purchase them.  (Helpful Hint: look on eBay for out of stock colors and lower prices than baggubag.com.) Though I don't actually use them at the grocery store, I do use them just to tote random stuff around, mostly to the post office and work.

• Sharpie Colored Pens
I was so happy to see an end cap full of colored Sharpie pens at most stores earlier this month. I've used Sharpie black pens for almost three years; they write so smooth.  I did limit myself to just a few colors since I had so many black ones, but I'm so glad Sharpie finally started producing bright colors.

snack packs & Sharpies,
-Kaitlyn

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July Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

Gold Bond Ultimate Healing Foot Cream
I'm assuming this is because of the weather and I stay in heels the majority of the time, but lately, my feet are just in poor shape  Sometimes the skin on my feet just hurts... like the way badly chapped lips feel.  I have a few higher-priced foot creams that I loved but recently aren't working for me anymore.  I saw this at the drugstore for $5 and decided to give it a try.  I haven't seen a drastic improvement, but it is working.  It has seven penetrating moisturizers to heal dry, rough, and cracked heels.  It smells nice, kind of like Fruit Loops cereal. The best part is it isn't greasy. So I slather this on before bed and my satin sheets aren't harmed.

NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base
I've been an Urban Decay Potion Primer user for three years.  I tried one or two other eye primers but never ventured too far from Urban Decay.  Although the old Urban Decay wand tube packaging was completely wasteful and made no sense, I missed the wand applicator for mornings when I was in a hurry.  My love for NARS blushes and the wand packaging were the only reasons I purchased this.  Come to find out, I like it even better than Urban Decay.  It feels nicer, dries faster, and eye shadow still stays on all day long.  But unfortunately, compared to Urban Decay, it's less product with a higher price tag.

OPI Matte Nail Envy Nail Strengthener
My nails have always been pretty strong but occasionally, they peel.  I've been eying this product for awhile and finally decided to purchase it.  I've noticed such a difference, my nails are almost rock hard.

and a random favorite:
Conair Compact Fabric Steamer
I finally invested in a steamer.  When I say invested, I mean I spent the same cost of one dry cleaning bill. Half of my closet is hand wash only, which means wrinkles galore and most pieces can't be ironed.  I wear my silk shirts and other delicate fabrics much more often now.  I won't have to have items dry cleaned as frequently.  This steamer has also been useful for blankets, curtains, and even carpet cleaning. 



fruit loops & steamers,
-Kaitlyn

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June Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

Because of moving, purchasing beauty products was really the last thing on my mind this month. I picked up a few from the drugstore but the majority were all very much disliked and I ended up returning them.  On the cosmetics end, this month's favorites are lacking:

Bath & Body Works Sleep Aromatherapy Products in Lavender and Chamomile 
My new apartment kind of has a smell to it. That someone-lived-here-before-you smell mixed with cleaning supplies, a fresh coat of paint, and curtains that I can't get the plastic smell out of.  I did more cleaning and then just decided to mask it with aromatherapy.  I've been loving the  Lavender and Chamomile candles and wallflowers. My apartment smells good and I'm on a regular sleep pattern.  I also picked up the Body Wash/Foam Bath, and it's wonderful as well.

Revlon Kissable Balm Stain in Honey
Following the Lip Butters, Revlon came out with another amazing lip product.  These are similar to Clinique Chubby Sticks but half the cost.  (A little pricey for a drugstore lip product, but worth it to pick up a color or two.)  The stain lasts all day and is pretty moisturizing.  Unlike most lip stains, this one actually goes on even.

OPI Nail Lacquer in Fiji Weejee Fawn
This has been in my collection for awhile. I've worn it most of the month.  It's a pretty, sheer, frost nude that goes with just about anything.


"things that go with nothing kind of go with everything",
-Kaitlyn



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May Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

 My favorites are up a little late this time around. With moving and being without a laptop and internet, it was impossible to post. Because of the move, I didn't spend much time or money on beauty this month, but still managed to pick up a few things at work and shopped my stash...

Anastasia Clear Brow Gel
I received a mini sample of this and loved it. When my Cover Girl Clear Mascara (my usual, cheap, wanna-be brow gel) was used up I decided I wanted this in full size. I really like this, with just one sweep all brow hairs were in place.  By the way, you can (accidently) sleep with this on and still have brows in place the next morning, which explains the staying power for itself.

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick in Deauville*
This was the first shade that caught my eye (mentioned in a previous post.) It really should have been my first Chanel lipstick but co-workers previously talked me out of this shade and into another. Luckily, I was gifted this color and am so happy to have it. It's been my go-to shade every day this month.

Chanel Le Vernis Nail Colour in Dragon
The perfect red. I have worn this all month as well. It has a high-gloss finish.  Plus, it doesn't peel off like most polishes do; it's actually a little hard to get this off. 

Organix Repairing Awapuhi Ginger Shampoo & Instant Recovery Mask
I purchased these forever ago when they were on sale and just threw them under my bathroom counter when packing to move I rediscovered them. I have only used them a few times but the scent is amazing (lingers for a few hours) and the mask made my hair really shiny and soft.

moved in,
-Kaitlyn

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Firsts from Chanel*

I've always eyed Chanel products. Could I justify the high price tag just try a new product in one shade? No. Full disclosure: I received a very generous spring incentive (employee discount) which I took advantage of; I got these products at a fraction of the cost.

All of the items I wanted to try ending up being limited edition products only available at holiday time.  The sales associate and I just played in makeup for about 30 minutes until I was finally content with the shades.  She kept insisting I go "out of the box", out of my comfort zone, and she was right... I needed to.

I explained to her I had extremely dry flaky lips, so she recommended the Rouge Coco Shine Lipsticks. When it comes to lipstick, I always go for the color-of-my-lips-but-better with a hint of brown.  I was drawn to shade Deauville immediately.  Both the sales associate and a coworker insisted I go for the true pink shades, to bring out the pink in my cheeks.  I listened; why did I need another lipstick shade similar to the majority of my other ones?  I finally chose the shade Fetiche.

I also really wanted to try a nail polish; everyone knows my nail polish collection is already obnoxious.  I was really drawn to the red family, but again, why did I need so many similar shades?  I didn't really care much for the "top" Chanel shades. Like Paradoxal, Particuliere, and Rouge Noir.  The sales associate swatched Orange Fizz on my nail.  I liked it, I realized I had no orange shades in my collection, and we found the winner.

I only walked away with two products.  Looking back, with the three-day spring incentive, I should've picked up a few more products but it looks like I'll be waiting until the next fall incentive (and maybe some holiday products.)

Review

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick in Fetiche
It's extremely soft and moisturizing, somewhat similar to the Revlon lip butters.  The color payoff is glossy and really sheer, not very buildable.  (If your lips are extremely pigmented, this color probably won't even show up.) The color is a medium rosy pink, no undertones.  It does have a brightening effect.  It's not very long-lasting, it lasts less than an hour on me. The packaging is sleek and durable.

Product: 3/5

Value: 3/5

Packaging: 5/5

Overall: 3/5

Retail: $32.50
Overall: I don't think it's an amazing product for the cost.

Best For: Those who like sheer glossy lipstick and don't have very pigmented lips.
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this product to a friend.

Chanel Le Vernis Nail Color in Orange Fizz
This is a pretty seasonal color.  The color is in-between melon and coral.  I plan to wear this on my toes a lot in the summer.  It was pretty on my nails, too, but I prefer more neutral shades. Unfortunately, it takes three coats to get completely opague and rid of streaks.  What I did like so much is the glossy finish, after the third coat, it looked like I already topped it with Seche Vite. It chipped on the third day, but it didn't peel off;  I'm impressed with the formula.

Product: 4/5

Value: 3/5

Packaging: 5/5

Overall: 4/5

Retail: $26.00
Overall: It's a great seasonal color with a high gloss finish. For the cost, it should be one-coater.

Best For: Those who like colorful, glossy, cream nail color and don't mind multiple coats.
Bottom Line: No, I would not recommend this product to a friend. 

Gift with Purchase: I received a deluxe sample of Chanel Hydra Beauty Gel Creme.  I've only used this a few times.  It does feel amazing, the same finish and cooling texture as Smashbox Photo Finish Primer.  But for $87.00, I don't think it's a must-have.

out of the box,
-Kaitlyn

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March Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

Between work and school, I haven't had the time to research, try, and review a lot of new beauty products this month. I managed to pick up a few but I've mostly just stuck to my normal beauty routine.

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick in Fetiche
(full review to come) A sheer, glossy, rosy pink, that suits almost any eyeshadow.

Chanel Le Vernis Nail Color in Orange Fizz
(full review to come) The halfway point between melon and coral, a great color to jump into spring.  I've alternated this color between my fingernails and toenails all month.

MAC Tendertone in Hot 'n' Saucy
I didn't really love this at first, but it's growing on me and I find myself reaching for it a lot more.  For class, I've just been reaching for concealer (below), this Tendertone, and mascara.  It's pretty moisturizing with a subtle hint of color.

Sonia Kashuk Hidden Agenda Concealer Palette
I had my eye on this product for awhile.  When my main concealer had only a few centimeters left, I decided to buy this palette. I had to visit four Targets (over a weeks time) until I finally found it in stock. It's an excellent value - two concealers, a corrective concealer, and pressed powder for only $10.  It's extremely creamy,  buildable, and easy to blend. It's way to being my new main concealer.

four Targets later,
-Kaitlyn

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February Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

Beauty Blender Sponge
I couldn't justify spending $25 on a sponge when these came out forever ago.  I was happy with my $8 Sonia Kashuk “dupe” until I received the real Beauty Blender in my Birchbox this month.  They don't really compare.  Blending in concealer takes a lot less effort now.  This sponge is softer than the basic white wedge.

Nivea A Kiss of Milk & Honey Soothing Lip Care

I have awful, flakey-dry lips, and I'm always on the hunt for a miracle product.  This isn't it, but it has helped some. I mainly use this before bed and occasionally at school.  It has helped my lips more than other recent products.  It actually locks in moisture,

Sinful Colors Cinderella Nail Polish

I picked this up at the beginning of the month when Walgreens had their Sinful Polishes on sale for .99 cents.  I thought I had a few similar colors, but I was wrong.  It's better than the similar colors I own – truly the color of Cinderella's gown with some pink/purple shimmer.

Urban Decay Bootycall Eyeshadow

The Naked 2 palette is growing on me, I can't say I love the whole palette yet.  Nearly every day this month, I've reached for the shade Bootycall, but for different looks.  I wore it as an eyeshadow on its own, blended it with a few other eyeshadows, and used it as both a brow and cheek highlighter.

milk & honey,
-Kaitlyn

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January Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

This month I had to repurchase quite a few items that I love and ran out of Origins Vitazing Moisturizer and MAC Turquatic Perfume, to name a few. I also picked up items that I already owned in other shades.  Instead of me giving a mini review on products you can already find on my blog, I'll just focus on the new products (From the drugstore!) I've been loving for the month of January:

John Frieda Sheer Solution: Lightweight Frizz Control Serum
The reason I''m so obsessed with this is just for the smell.  It smells better than any salon product that has every touched my hair.  (I purchased a few other items from the line, hoping they'd smell similar, only to be disappointed.) It does tame down frizz on damp hair.  But to tame morning bed head, I'm still on the hunt for a miracle product.

Maybelline Illegal Length Mascara
It's a fabulous lengthening mascara, the fibers add quite a few centimeters to the end of my lashes. However, it doesn't do much thickening.

Revlon Colorburst Lip Butter in Pink Truffle
See my full review.   I picked up quite a few of these lip butters but two in this shade.  I wear it every day and apply multiple times, it's replaced my favorite (drying) MAC lipstick.

Rimmel Lasting Finish Pro Top Coat in Crystal Clear
The bottle claims it lasts up to 10 days. (I'm not sure if that's possible - I'm tired of the same color after a week.)  It has made usual manicure of 1-3 days last at least 5-6 days and still looks good (no peeling, minimal chipping.)  It's similar to Seche Vite, but better, and only one-third of the cost.  I just hope it doesn't thicken and ruin like Seche Vite does when you use half the bottle...

the salon smell,
-Kaitlyn

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December Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

This month hardly consisted of purchasing any new beauty products because most of my time and money went into apartment décor and Christmas gifts. But I did have to make a few repurchases this month:

MAC Soft Ochre Paint Pot
It evens out the eyelid and gets rid of veins or redness, making eyeshadow pop brighter. Unfortunately, it’s not a great base on its own and needs the help of Urban Decay Potion Primer to avoid creasing.

Organix Moroccan Argan Oil Renewing Treatment
It helps restore shine, moisturizes, dangles and smells nice.  It's extremely cheap compared to the Moroccan Oil products.

Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
Nail polish lasts another 3-4 days topping it with this. The shine is really intense too. On lazy days, I’ve just been opting for this on its own.

shiny nails,
-Kaitlyn

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September Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

Almay Makeup Remover Sticks
I found these little "sticks" while browsing the beauty aisle at CVS.  They look like Q-tips, but the inside is filled with makeup remover, you snap the top, and the remover saturates the bottom - they're perfect for anywhere, anytime. They were under $5.00 - there's no excuse for smudged eye makeup any longer.

Butter London Nail Polish in Come to Bed Red
Your basic red polish, but I'm mostly impressed with the formula.

Bath & Body Works S'mores Candle
previous post I burnt all of my mini ones (3) and now I'm working on the bigger ones. I love the scent, it is literally s'mores in a jar.

Sephora Cuticle Oil Pen (Eucalyptus)
The skin around my fingernails has been peeling badly, lotion hasn't been helping so much so I decided to give this a try - all of the dead skin is gone and no more peeling.  I really like the scent, as well.  I want to a purchase another one for my purse.

Soap & Glory The Righteous Butter
I've heard nothing but positive things about Soap & Glory, the line was available at my Target a few months back but it disappeared; I was happy to see Sephora now carries it.  It was actually an impulse buy, just the small tub - but I'm definitely purchased the full size.  The scent is great, it's moisturizing, and left my skin super smooth.

Wet 'n' Wild Party of Five Glitters
I picked this up with Wet 'n' Wild's .99 cent promotion.  It looked so neat in the bottle (not that glitter polishes ever look like they do in the bottle.) It's a chunky confetti polish, it took me about 6 coats to make it look like the bottle. I received so many compliments on my nails. (It really reminds me of Sally Hansen's Frock Star strips.) I'll try using it on top of different colors soon.

righteous,
-Kaitlyn

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August Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

Milani Nail Polish in Black Cherry
I was really impressed with the quality and staying power of the polish, I've always been an OPI girl, but I really liked this color.  Black and red have always been my "go-to" shades, and this makes a happy medium.

OPI Ridge Filler
Recently, my nails have started flaking and peeling making an uneven application.  I discovered this and haven't painted my nails without it.  Between buffing and this ridge filler, my nails are super smooth and even, making polish last even longer.  My only complaint is this fills in white instead of clear, so transparent polishes are out.

Organix Moroccan Curling Perfection Defining Cream 
I did a full review on the 4 original Organix Moroccan Argan Oil products and wished for more styling products - well a dream came true.  I put this on my damp-dry hair and scrunched away.  My hair had a little bit more wave, less frizz, and smelled great.

Revlon Photoready Concealer in Fair
I purchased a second, it's great for under the eyes and spot treatment.  Really creamy and blends like a dream.

Trim Nail Buffer
My nail polish was constantly chipping and peeling off.  I did a little research and most said their polish lasted a few extra days just by using a buffer, I agree!

Wet 'n' Wild Megaslicks Lipgloss in Crystal Clear 
I now own 4 of these (Walgreens has a promotion going on running these for .99 cents until mid-September.)   It's just a basic good-quality clear gloss. Moisturizing and loaded with shine.  Plus, a unscented and nonsticky formula!

dreams come true,
-Kaitlyn

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July Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

Products
Essie After Sex Nail Polish
A cranberry metallic red, so pretty for any skin tone; application is surprisingly smooth.

Sonia Kashuk Blending Sponge
This is supposedly a "failed dupe" to the Beauty Blender sponge. (Only because of its different shape, it can't roll on foundation perfectly like the beauty blender can.) I don't wear foundation so this "flaw" (comfort spot for your fingers) doesn't matter to me. I do really like this sponge for blending concealer in perfectly as well as cheek highlight.  I've tossed the old white, cheap sponge wedges for this!

Joico K-Pak Conditioner
I've always been a K-Pak fan, especially the Hydrator. I've been using drugstore conditioner for awhile just to be cost efficient.  (At the beginning of the month, I scored a liter of this for $7, it will probably last me forever.) I feel like you can use a low-end shampoo and a high-end conditioner and still get great results.

Maybelline Master Drama Eyeliner
I've used MAC Technakohl religiously for three years in. I decided it was time to give a drugstore eyeliner a try. I'm glad I did. I saw so many magazine advertisements for this eyeliner, I did a little research, and found myself purchasing it about a week later. It's a cream liner - such a smooth application.  It is completely smudge-proof and lasts all day.


OPI I Lily Love You Nail Polish
A hot pink with tons of flaky glitter.  It's just as pretty as Teenage Dream but a hot pink shade. However, it's too opaque for my liking, instead of wearing 5 coats to get the color of the bottle, I usually put this over a regular hot pink.

OPI Malaysian Mist Nail Polish
Another perfect nude polish for the time being, calling all pale girls!

Versace Bright Crystal Perfume
I'm awful at describing scents, but I think this may new perfume. It's a fresh/clean scent but has a  feminine touch too. It's an all-day scent, night or day. I received a little (GWP) bottle and have been using it every day. I'll most likely be purchasing the full-size bottle soon!

here's to 5 coats,
-Kaitlyn

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May Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

Joico K-Pak Liquid Reconstructor
I've used the Hydrator now for about six months and I've loved it. (I didn't care much for the Reconstructor because of the banana scent.) I really needed a detangler because I was tired of using a child one. This was the solution; it fixes damages, detangles, and protects all in one.

OPI Big Apple Red
The perfect OPI red I've been searching for. It's just a classic red - there is no orange, purple, or blue hues that you find in most red polishes.

OPI Skull & Glossbones
This and silver shatter where the only colors that really caught my attention with the Pirates of the Carribean collection. It's a nude soft gray, basically a good neutral shade for your collection. (Unfortunately, I did have to pick up the mini set just for this polish because it was always sold out.)

MAC Soft & Gentle Mineralized Skinfinish
I forgot which collection this was from, I finally arranged a swap for it on makeupalley.com and got my hands on it. It's the perfect color and mix of shimmer for a great highlight anywhere - brow bone, cheeks, body.

Revlon Photo Ready Concealer
This is one of those "she made me do it" products. (Kandee Johnson) - I was on the hunt for a good under-eye concealer. None of my MAC concealers were cutting it. I picked this up in the lightest shade (fair) and it matches perfectly - I'm not sure if I'm extremely pale or these just run darker. It's great for Under-eyes and red spots, splotches, and blemishes it isn't so great for.  This well on it's way to being my favorite drugstore product.

Sigma E40 Tapered Blending
I do have MAC 217, but I use it for crease application.  I desperately wanted the 224, but just couldn't justify $30 on a brush - this is supposedly a dupe (no clue how it compares) for 1/3 of the cost. I don't put any product on this brush, I just blend out what's already been applied - it does a great job.

Sonia Kashuk Eye Makeup Remover
Another supposedly dupe, for one of the Lancome removers. (again, I have no clue how it compares.) I was tired of rubbing my eyes raw with MAC Cleanse Off Oil (more just for the face than mascara) this was the highest rated drugstore remover. It was only $9 - it doesn't sting the eyes and it gets the job done more so than other drugstore removers and Cleanse Off Oil but it still takes 2-3 swipes to get everything off.


Tangle Teezer
I have no clue what has been going on with my hair recently but it's just been such a knotted mess. I have insanely thick hair so brushing while wet, yanking out tangles, etc. Never really mattered - I had hair to spare. (ha) I realize that's not healthy or good for my hair. While browsing Sally's, I discovered this - only $9, I figured it was a worth a shot. I came home and read reviews, they were all awesome. I'm not sure how it works exactly, a hollow brush with soft bristles but it manages to gently get all the tangles out, on both wet and dry hair.  It works pretty quick and it's painless. (With the exception of those huge knots.) But this is a must-have for people with thin, brittle hair and that are extremely tender-headed. - It also distributes conditioner evenly to your hair in the shower. I have noticed if I back comb my hair with this dry it gives great volume.  Basically, a 3-in-1 product.


Urban Decay Primer Potion in Eden
This is a base and primer in one - the color is a light nude. This product gives a blank canvas and is great for really making eyeshadows pop and will help out those who have bluish veiny eyelids.

Urban Decay Naked Palette
At last, I got one of these (only a year later.) A full review to come later on in June. I could never find these in store, I wasn't going to completely hunt for it or pay an inflated price. I was picking up shampoo and there it was - one Naked palette remaining... I considered it fate, caved in, and bought it. Let me just say I absolutely love it, so much I actually sold or swapped most of MAC eyeshadows.

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April Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

China Glaze Sea Spray
A sky blue meets gray.  This color is perfect for those who have a hard time stepping away from neutrals but wants to join the bright color summer trend. (Baby steps!)

Clinique High Definition Mascara
This is one of my HG mascaras. I've purchased this at least 10 times now.  The applicator has a normal brush on one side but a comb on the other.  Distribution is great and it's nearly impossible to have a lot of clumps and spider lashes with the comb.

Essie Topless & Barefoot
This makes my favorites list yet again, it's the perfect nude for pale skin tones. 

LypSyl Lip Balm
Calling all Burt Bee's lovers! It's time to make a change.  Lypsyl is pure Swedish beeswax.  It gives the same Burt's Bees feel but it's less waxy and last longer.  It also has a tingly mint feeling after application.  Lypsyl is a mix between Burt's Bees & C.G. Bigelow with better-staying power and more hydration than both combined. The Lypsyl packaging is also unique it has a bee slider, rather than the usual twist up chapstick, which makes application much easier.

OPI Silver Shatter
If you loved (or even hated) Black Shatter, you need to try this out.  It's better formulated than Black Shatter (Mine made a gloppy after a few weeks of usage, nail thinner is a must anytime I want to wear it now.) The extreme shimmery silver is pretty over any color.

organix morrocan argan oil (penetrating oil
I raved about the conditioner last month, now I've been using the oil all month. It's a MUCH cheaper alternative to salon's morrocan & argan oil.  This one smells better, too!  I have noticed a lot more shine in my hair after using this whenever I'm out of the shower. I haven't noticed my hair being more moisturized; I admit, I mainly use it for the scent.

Physician's Formula Mineral Wear Talc-Free Correcting Primer (pink)
I really wanted the green primer to cover up the redness around my nose since it was sold out at multiple stores. I decided just to try out the pink one for evening skin tones. I can't imagine putting this all over my face for actual primer (the real use) it makes my face pretty shiny and bright.  (I don't wear powder or foundation.) I just put this around my nose (to cover redness) and under my eyes (to brighten.) It doesn't completely even out of the redness but it does help a lot. The packaging (twist up brush) isn't the most sanitary, a pump would've been a better option.


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Zoya Earth Day

A step towards natural polish.

I have to admit, when it comes to nail polish, all I ever purchase anymore is OPI. It's is mid-priced, high quality, and a never-ending supply of colors. When you find a good brand, it's hard to try out others because you may be let down.

I don't know all the chemicals that go into nail polish, and if I did, I'd probably start thinking twice about painting my nails again.

Zoya polishes are "long wearing, natural formula" polishes. The formula is Formaldehyde, Toluene, Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP) and Camphor Free. I had to look all of these up:

Formaldehyde - colorless gas, preservative
USE: embalmers treat corpses
Toluene - colorless flammable liquid obtained from petroleum or coal tar
USE: solvent for gums and lacquers and in high-octane fuels
Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP)- plasticizer
USE: adhesives & printing inks
Camphor - white or transparent solid with a strong, aromatic odor
USE: antiseptic, stimulant, and anti-inflammatory ingredient

For Earth Day, Zoya had a recycle promotion. You could get at least 6 polishes for "free" (as long as you paid the $4 processing & shipping fee.) and you send in your empty polishes (any brand but Zoya.)

Zoya polishes are $8 each; basically, with this promotion,  they were half off.  (When's a better time to try out a new brand?) My mom mentioned she wanted her own bottle of the Remove Plus Nail Polish Remover, (mentioned in a previous favorites post) which was another reason for placing my order.

I purchased 6 polishes, (but one was back ordered), Remove Plus Big Flipper, and the Mini Holiday Gift Set.  With every purchase, Zoya also includes "color plates" swatches of new or current collections, that allows you to "try on" the nail color.  (Which is a good idea, I added a few of these to my wishlist.)

(Excuse the sloppy swatches, I'm still waiting on good swatch wheels to get here from China.)  The six polishes I chose were: Raven (not pictured: back ordered, black), Edyta, Luna, Bebe, Blair, and Astra. Zoya has a few hundred shades to choose from, so it was pretty overwhelming especially being a newbie.  Out of these, Edyta is my favorite. It really reminds me of plastic metallic leather.  It depends on the light that hits it too, tt's forest green in one room then in another room it's black with loads of shimmer.

I purchased another Remove Plus Big Flipper for my mom. (Part of her mother's day present, shh.) This is definitely the best nail polish remover I've ever used.  The smell is nice.  The lock-click pump is fabulous.  (How many times have you spilled an entire bottle of nail polish remover?... that's definitely not possible with this bottle.) I almost purchased a refill (32oz) bottle, but I realized I still have 3/4ths of a full bottle; I've been using it for 2 months.

I also purchased the "Mini Holiday Gift Set" (a little odd seeing snowflake packaging this time of year!) I wanted to try out Zoya's base & top coat, the drying drops, and have a travel bottle of nail polish remover. The top and base coat haven't received such great reviews from others, but products work differently for everyone. - We shall see.

I'm pretty impressed with the quality and pigmentation of the polishes (especially since I only paid $4 a bottle.) "Long wearing".. not so much. I had tip fading the second day of wear.

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March Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

China Glaze Cracked Concrete Polish - After my obsession with Black Shatter, I wanted another color. This is the same idea, the same crackle affect, just a different color. Someone informed me my nails looked like granite counter tops; I guess that's a good description. It looks best with pastel polishes.

eos Hand-cream (Nourish) - I got this product only because I was sucked into paid advertising. In the Cosmopolitan March magazine, this product was mentioned in many beauty articles, it can fix hair fly-aways, and clean up under-eye make-up. I was most impressed with the cute, practical packaging. So easy to use and carry in your purse. It smells extremely nice too, light and fresh. It's not a miracle hand cream, but I don't suffer from extremely dry skin to mind.

Essie Topless & Barefoot Polish - A great natural shade. This was my first Essie polish. The first coat was quite streaky (not sure if that's normal for the brand?) but the second coat covered it. It would be the perfect nude for very pale somewhat pink skin tones.

MAC Margin Blush - A peachy golden color, it's very natural looking with a hint of shimmer.

MAC Select Moisturecover Concealer - I was on the hunt for a moisturizing concealer to take care of red, dry, splotchy patches around my nose. This did the trick. It's much more moisturizing than the other two MAC concealers I have tried (Studio Finish & Select Cover-up.) The wand application makes the process a lot fast than having to worry with a brush.

MAC Soiree Polish - (Cham-Pale Collection) Such a light, pretty bronze color. Covered in one coat.. impressive! Would be great for summer.

Neosporin Overnight Renewal Lip Therapy - I suffer from extremely dry, flaky lips. I'm always searching for an HG product. This is by no means it, but it does soothe my lips before bed. (I haven't noticed amazing results in 3 days as promised.) It smells like Fruity Pebbles cereal!

OPI Teenage Dream Polish - I think this has made my favorites three months in a row? I keep reaching for it. Such a fun, girly, color. Loaded with glitter. (Would be great for prom!..depending on your dress.)

Organix Morroccan Argan Oil Conditioner - I picked up just the conditioner because I have so many other treatments and shampoos I need to finish up first, but I'm definitely going to purchase everything from the rest of the line. It smells amazing, it's pretty thick so it actually feels like it's moisturizing.

Sephora Glass Nail File - Never again will I purchase the basic emery board. I was tired of going through emery boards like there's no tomorrow. Plus my nails were getting somewhat brittle and always had a rough edge at the top. Not with this file - it makes your nail extremely smooth and doesn't wear and tear them down.

Wet 'n' Wild Mega Protein Nourishing Mascara - I found this at Big Lots for right under $2. (Meaning, I'm sure it's discontinued.) I'm trying to step away from my favorite mascara and give others a try. It doesn't give the false lash effect. It's great for work or school when you still want the natural look. It's a soft mascara, it doesn't make your lashes all hard and clumpy like every other one I've picked up in my life does. I'm not sure if it really "nourishes" but I feel like it does, mental thing. I'm sure.

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February Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

Coach Poppy
I was surprised I liked this because I'm usually more into somewhat masculine meets sexy scents. This one is completely girl - floral, fruity, summertime.  I loved the sample so much I had to purchase the full bottle.

Eco Tools Travel Brushes
Great set of travel brushes, pretty high-quality brushes for the price.  More in-depth review to come.

MAC Velvet Teddy Lipstick
This is my first matte lipstick.  I had to step away from the viva glams because I used the B2M program for this.  Supposedly it's a dupe for the color Megan Fox often wears.  It's a very light brown.  It's one of those the color-of-your-lips but better shades.

MAC Well Dressed Blush
A pale baby pink in the pan, but a gorgeous color once it meets the skin.  Perfect for everyday wear.

OPI Fiji Weejee Fawn
I think this has made my favorites the past three months?  I constantly reach for it.  A champagne/nude metallic.

OPI Teenage Dream
A fun pink, it takes 3-4 coats to match the bottle though.  Maybe more practical over another shade.

Physician's Formula Shimmer Strips Vegas
Dupe for Bobby Brown Shimmer Bricks, I would always use a pigment for highlight; powder is so much more practical, especially when in a hurry.  Gives a nice glow.

Tweezerman Tweezers 
I never understood what the point of purchasing $20 tweezers was, all tweezers do the same thing, right? Wrong. Hair literally jumps into these tweezers! I can get rid of hairs that I couldn't even see to begin with. They seem to be less painful, too.  You can send them and get them sharpened at any time.

Zoya Remove Plus
The best nail polish remover I have ever used.  Plus, the no-spill bottle pump is a major plus. It is acetone but it's moisturizing at the same time.  It can even get glitter polish off.  It smells good, too... lavender meets a male's shaving cream.  I will be repurchasing the huge refill bottle!

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Review: Sally Hansen Nail Polish Strips

I saw these in a magazine ad a few months ago. I thought stick-on nail polish sounded really cool, plus an easy, fast application, mess-free and smell-free. -- wrong.

I picked a box up at Wal*Mart a few weeks ago. I was a little annoyed and shocked at the price - $8.50 My immediate thought was that's a bottle of OPI that will last forever. (Other bloggers have stated they paid as high as $13.) This was just one manicure. Being curious, I still purchased one.

Sally Hansen Salon Effects Nail Polish Strips in Frock Star

I followed all instructions but the application process was still annoying - I have long, skinny nails. I used 3/4 (length) of each sticker.  But I still had to cut and file down the sides because it completely flooded my nails. - On some nails, it ended up chipping (one ripped) immediately from so much tugging and filing for the perfect fit. Then by that time, the sticker was barely sticky - I ended up using some brush-on nail glue beneath the polish on a few nails to make it stay. - Overall, not worth the time and effort and still looked somewhat chipped. - Only my thumbnail actually looked decent, the sticker was smaller than my nail, so it stretched and fit properly (how instructions say it should.)

I thought this would be easy, fast, nail art. (With skinny nails, wrong, it takes too much effort for the perfect fit.) and great for people who travel or people in the office space - no smell, no mess. again, wrong.  The smell was almost as bad as an original nail polish bottle itself. Plus, it made a mess (paper wise) each sticker has 5 parts - tip, top cover, bottom cover, and the actual sticker itself,  and then the excess polish after you fit it properly. (See below for the mess.)

"Last up to 10 days."  Was another reason why I purchased these.  Most nail polishes only have a flawless look for three days, I thought with an actual sticker there may be hope -  10 days? no way... It already chipped immediately after application.  On the third day of wear, two nails completely peeled off. - Since there was no way to fix those two nails, I just easily peeled the remaining 8 nails off.

I really liked the idea of these, but for skinny nails, it's just not practical. It's not cost effective either. One manicure and then 6 leftover strips, the biggest nail sticker was the size of my toenail. - I would recommend these to people with shorter, wider nails (cut the strips in half and you could have two manicures, plus it will stretch properly and hopefully make a perfect fit.

Pros:
-no drying time
-glitter was completely smooth (not the flaky kind you get in bottles.)

Cons:
-too much effort for a perfect fit
-too much chipping and ripping.
-made for larger, wider nails
-expensive
-smell
-messy (paper)
 -last only 3 days


Overall: Stick to nail polish bottles...

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