Showing posts with label Health and Beauty. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Health and Beauty. Show all posts

Birchbox December 2013


I am always eagerly awaiting my monthly birchbox. It's like a little present for me every month.

Let me tell you what birch box is, just in case you are not familiar with it.
It's a monthly subscription service which is $10.00 a month where you get sent 4-5 high-end samples each month. First you take a little survey so they can find out more about your skin, make up likes and dislikes so they know what to send you.

You know how I love trying out new products? Well, with the birch box, I can try high end products without having to buy full size products. If I love the product, then I can go buy it :)

If you are interested in checking it out, go to Birch Box


Empties and Reviews


Its that time again! Time to recycle my empties and do some reviews. 
Lets see what we have:


Arcona:

At the beginning of this pregnancy, I started breaking out a lot and nothing seemed to work. I went to Nordstrom and decided to try the Arcona trial kit. I really liked it and bought some full size products. It seemed to work for a bit, then it just stopped working. It is probably my crazy hormones with this pregnancy. 

The "best" working product out of this whole set is the Tabula Rasa. You apply it to your face and it controls the breakouts. It actually kinda stings, so you know it is working. 
However, after 3 full size bottles, it just stopped working.


The verdict:

I will not repurchase these products, Even though they are natural and "good" for your skin, they are VERY expensive, and I feel for the price, they don't work as good as they should. There are other things out there that work better. 

Birchbox November 2013




I am always eagerly awaiting my monthly birchbox. It's like a little present for me every month.

Let me tell you what birch box is, just in case you are not familiar with it.
It's a monthly subscription service which is $10.00 a month where you get sent 4-5 high-end samples each month. First you take a little survey so they can find out more about your skin, make up likes and dislikes so they know what to send you.

You know how I love trying out new products? Well, with the birch box, I can try high end products without having to buy full size products. If I love the product, then I can go buy it :)

If you are interested in checking it out, go to Birch Box


Birchbox October 2013




I am always eagerly awaiting my monthly birchbox. It's like a little present for me every month.

Let me tell you what birch box is, just in case you are not familiar with it.
It's a monthly subscription service which is $10.00 a month where you get sent 5-6 high-end samples each month. First you take a little survey so they can find out more about your skin, make up likes and dislikes so they know what to send you.

You know how I love trying out new products? Well, with the birch box, I can try high end products without having to buy full size products. If I love the product, then I can go buy it :)

If you are interested in checking it out, go to Birch Box


September 2013 Birchbox




I am always eagerly awaiting my monthly birchbox. It's like a little present for me every month.

Let me tell you what birch box is, just in case you are not familiar with it.
It's a monthly subscription service which is $10.00 a month where you get sent 5-6 high-end samples each month. First you take a little survey so they can find out more about your skin, make up likes and dislikes so they know what to send you.

You know how I love trying out new products? Well, with the birch box, I can try high end products without having to buy full size products. If I love the product, then I can go buy it :)

If you are interested in checking it out, go to Birch Box

August 2013 Birchbox



I am always eagerly awaiting my monthly birchbox. It's like a little present for me every month.

Let me tell you what birch box is, just in case you are not familiar with it.
It's a monthly subscription service which is $10.00 a month where you get sent 5-6 high-end samples each month. First you take a little survey so they can find out more about your skin, make up likes and dislikes so they know what to send you.

You know how I love trying out new products? Well, with the birch box, I can try high end products without having to buy full size products. If I love the product, then I can go buy it :)

If you are interested in checking it out, go to Birch Box


Lets take look into this months box:

Birchbox July 2013



I am always eagerly awaiting my monthly birchbox. It's like a little present for me every month.

Let me tell you what birch box is, just in case you are not familiar with it.
It's a monthly subscription service which is $10.00 a month where you get sent 5-6 high-end samples each month. First you take a little survey so they can find out more about your skin, make up likes and dislikes so they know what to send you.

You know how I love trying out new products? Well, with the birch box, I can try high end products without having to buy full size products. If I love the product, then I can go buy it :)

If you are interested in checking it out, go to Birch Box


Lets take look into this months box:



What Birchbox Says: Beyond its intense moisturizing powers, the creamy formula also regulates skin’s oil levels with a botanical brigade. Blueberry and white dead-nettle purify skin, while jasmine, burdock, and mandarin reduce breakouts and redness. 
What I say: I haven't used this moisturizer yet, but it sounds natural and good for my skin. Excited to try it out. 





What Birchbox Says: The water-resistant formula uses tiny fibers to beef up your fringe without any irritation. Nourishing beeswax and carnauba wax keep lashes plush. 
What I say: I love this mascara. It is amazing, one coat does wonders. Something I will definitely repurchase once I run out. 




What Birchbox Says: Zinc gluconate preserves color by strengthening ionic bonds between coloring agents, while linseed oil polishes hair fibers to maximize light reflection. A patented UV protectant filters sun damage and blocks environmental stressors that cause premature fading. 
What I say: I have not used this yet, but it sounds good. Especially since I ran out of my deep conditioner. 






 What Birchbox Says: Snag-free enamel and a slight upward bend at the tip helps these bobby pins slide easily over strands.
What I say: These bobby pins are so cute! 




What Birchbox Says: The silky powder leaves behind a lasting stain that blends in seamlessly with your skin. There are six lovely shades: Lace, a rosy bright pink; Argyle, a soft baby pink; Pinstripe, a warm plum; Houndstooth, a mauve with subtle bronze shimmer; Toile, a warm coral with red undertones; and Swiss Dot fresh tangerine. 
What I say: This is a gorgeous color, love the peachy color. Something I have been using almost daily since I received it in the mail. 


Thanks for visiting. 




Empties with Reviews


My Empties box is so full, that everything is falling out. I really should do this posts more often, but I keep putting them aside. So here it is. Reviews and then to the recycling and trash!


Did I like it? NO, this has bleach and was very difficult to apply and use. Read this post about my hair disaster. 
Will I repurchase? NO

Did I like it? NO, this was difficult to apply. 
Will I repurchase? NO

Did I like it? Yes, this is the best at home hair dye I have ever used. Easy to apply. 
Will I repurchase? Yes.



My Hair Disaster...







OK, I have had the worst hair experience, and I can't blame anyone but myself.

It happened about a month ago and I am finally ready to talk about it. 

Here is the thing, I have dark brown hair. I also have a lot of gray hairs, so I need to color pretty often (every 4-6 weeks) to keep the grays away.
The salon I was going to was charging me $80 for one color +tip. I hated paying so much every 6 weeks. So I started coloring my hair at home this year. 

 I was using John Frieda Precision Foam Colour in Dark Cool Espresso Brown and everything was going fine. It is super easy and clean to use (remember, I have a white bathroom, I don't want any hair dye splotches anywhere.) 
But the last time I used it, I left it on too long and it got really dark. 

I am sure it would have been fine, it would have faded with a few washes, but the do it your self girl I am, I decided to strip it myself and color it lighter. Yeah, Bad idea. 

Here is what started with. Now that I look back at it, It looks perfectly fine. I don't know why I though it was too dark:


To strip my hair, I decided to use Loreal Color Remover
Bad Bad idea!!
This stuff is horrible, smells bad and very difficult to apply by yourself. 
Never the less, I followed all the instructions on the box and hoped in the shower. 

June 2013 Birchbox + link up your box!






I was pleasantly surprised with my June Birch box, I actually loved everything!

Let me tell you what birch box is, just in case you are not familiar with it. It's a monthly subscription service which is $10.00 a month where you get sent 5-6 high-end samples each month. First you take a little survey so they can find out more about your skin, make up likes and dislikes so they know what to send you.

You know how I love trying out new products? Well, with the birch box, I can try high end products without having to buy full size products. If I love the product, then I can go buy it :)

If you are interested in checking it out, go to Birch Box


Now lets take a look inside:




Birchbox May 2013 + link up your box!



I am always eagerly awaiting my monthly birchbox. It's like a little present for me every month.

Let me tell you what birch box is, just in case you are not familiar with it.
It's a monthly subscription service which is $10.00 a month where you get sent 5-6 high-end samples each month. First you take a little survey so they can find out more about your skin, make up likes and dislikes so they know what to send you.

You know how I love trying out new products? Well, with the birch box, I can try high end products without having to buy full size products. If I love the product, then I can go buy it :)

If you are interested in checking it out, go to Birch Box



What Birchbox says about this product:  The soft wax formula goes on smooth to create clean lines or can be smudged to smoky perfection. Plus, the long-lasting liner will hold up all day and night. FUll size: $11.00

What I think: I got the color Raina, which is a smokey gray. I don't wear anything but black eye liner, I guess I am pretty boring. I did swatch it though, it is extra creamy and didn't wash off until I rubbed it. I really don't think I will wear this. 



What Birchbox says about this productThis paraben- and sulfate-free detangler seals the cuticles (the microscopic scales that compose the outermost layer of each strand of hair). It also smooths and moisturizes, thereby minimizing frizz, while safeguarding color and adding shine. Lastly, it provides protection against UV rays and heat. Happily, it accomplishes all this through a weightless, non-greasy formula that leaves behind an airy floral scent. FUll size: $21.95

What I think: I was really surprised that I loved this product. You see, I ran out of my heat protectant last week and have been using a different brand, which I have not been liking. Then this little baby shows up in the mail. It smells heavenly! 
My only problem, was that I could not get the sprayer to work. I guess I got a defected sprayer. I just poured some in my hand and rubbed it into my ends. It made my hair soft and smell so good! Best part is that it is paraben and sulfate free!



What Birchbox says about this productThe perfume opens with a burst of freshness from an intimate blend of calming citrus and a light woodsy floral, giving away to playful hints of cognac. Its middle notes—jasmine and Damascenia rose—give the fragrance a carefree, summery vibe. Finally, warm base notes of spicy woods and rich leather add a seductive finish. Plus, the vintage-inspired glass bottle adds a chic touch to any vanity. FUll size: $98.00

What I think: Wow, this stuff smells good! The bottle is so pretty, but the price is really steep! It would be a great gift, but I wouldn't buy it for myself. 




What Birchbox says about this productUnlike chemical sunscreens, which can take up to half an hour to kick into effect, this ultra-light sunblocks start working right away. The skin-balancing formula features vitamin C-rich strawberry extracts to soothe and tone lackluster skin. Age-reversing antioxidants like evening primrose, acai, and linseed oils deflect free radicals, while naturally water-resistant plankton makes the formula extra-durable. FUll size: $32.00

What I think: I really liked this sunblock, it seeped into the skin really fast and is non greasy. This sample size will last me a long time.


I am not really sure how I feel about getting a pen in my birchbox. I am  always loosing them, so it is nice to get one. But, I wish it was a beauty bonus item instead. 

This months box was small, only 4 samples. 

Show me what you got!









My Favorite Mask (Review- Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay Mask)




This is my favorite mask I have tried so far. It is very inexpensive $6.99 at Whole Foods (I bought it on Amazon). I have been using it once a week since September of last year, and I still have plenty left!

I use this mask with Organic Raw Apple cider (just as the mask recomends)
YOu use equal parts of both and create a paste.

Do not use a metal spoon or bowl to mix this in. 

I  keep my small bowl, spoon and apple cider in the bathroom, so I can easily mix up the mask anytime I want. 

Current Makeup Favorites (spring 2013)


With warm weather here,  I have changed to more of "lighter" foundation and a tinted moisturizer. 
These are a few of my favorites right now. 

Clarins Ever Matte Skin Balancing Foundation. I LOVE this foundation, In fact I bought another one since I just ran out. It withstands warm weather, stays on all day and is medium coverage. 
The only complaint is that the shade 104 (the lightest shade they have) is a tad to dark. But with some powder/bronzer on my neck, it is not noticeable.

Clarins Colour Accents Face&Blush powder. This is such a pretty shade, its a bronzer and blush in one.  Like all Clarins makeup, it smells lovely.

Naked 2 Pallet. Love this pallet, It is so nice to reach for one compact and do your eyes. My favorite shades to use are: Bootycall, tease, busted.

Tarte Blush in doll face This color is so lovely. Perfect for sunny days.

Loreal voluminous mascara. This is my favorite mascara now. Love it!

I have tried lots of tinted moisturizers, this is the only one I liked enough to purchase (and not return). I love that it is luminizing. It makes my face glow. :)

I used to love the MUF full cover concealer, until I discovered this one. Love this stuff. 
Creamy, long lasting and the perfect shade for me. 

Love this under eye concealer. It is easy to apply and blends nicely.

My favorite powder right now is: lancome mattifying silky pressed powder
I desperately need a mattifying powder in this warm weather. This stuff works wonders!

If you have not tried the Clarins lip perfecters, you are missing out. This is my favorite thing to use when I am not wearing lip stick (or I even add it on top of lipstick)
The best lipgloss you can ever use, I even carry one in my purse. 
It is not sticky, smells like vanilla and is a perfect natural shade. 

What are some of your warm weather favorites?




April Birchbox (Link up your Birchbox)


I always get so excited when I get my birchbox in the mail. 

Let me tell you what birch box is, just in case you are not familiar with it.
It's a monthly subscription service which is $10.00 a month where you get sent 5-6 high-end samples each month. First you take a little survey so they can find out more about your skin, make up likes and dislikes so they know what to send you.

You know how I love trying out new products? Well, with the birch box, I can try high end products without having to buy full size products. If I love the product, then I can go buy it :)

If you are interested in checking it out, go to Birch Box



Lets see what I got this month:

Beauty Haul Spring 2013

About 2-3 times a year I do a large beauty haul. It may include any face stuff I have wanted to try out or new hair products. 

Last time I did a large beauty haul was Sepember 2012. I do buy shampoo and face wash once I run out, but that is it. Other then that, I use what I have or try out samples from Birchbox. 

Well since then I ran out of eye cream, face wash, shampoo... I knew it was time for another haul.

I picked up a few things here and there and am excited to start using them. 

Here are a few new things I am planning on trying:

This is more for my hubby and little man, but I am planning on trying it out too. 


My hair is so thin, this sounds promising. 

Although I love the shampoo I have been using (carol's daughter) I decided I needed something to help put some volume into my hair. This one is very highly rated, so I decided to give it a try. 

I got this with my birchbox points. Another thing to help me with some volume. 


I decided to try a new face wash

Since my last eye cream lasted me 5 months, it was time to try something else. 

I decided to try a new spot treatment, we shall see how this goes. 

By far my biggest splurge. I tried the sample and fell in love because I could see results right away. I am not getting any younger, so I decided to invest into this and hoping I will love it. If not, Nordstrom has a great return policy. 



My favorite mascara at the moment, I was out and had to replace it. 

I really like L'Oreal nailpolish. I have tried high end nailpolish and found that this works just as well, if not better then the other.

This was a impulse buy, I could not resist the pretty color. 


Here is a swatch of the pretty color. 
Perfect for spring!


What are some beauty things you just bought? 

What are some beauty things you can't live without?

Thank you for visiting. 



Empties With Reviews (Used Up Products)

My emtpies box is filled up to the brim so it is time to review and recycle. 


Lets start out with hair products:


Did I like it: YES. Strong hold, doesn't leave hair sticky, I can brush it at the end of the day and the hairspray is gone. The only thing I didn't like is the smell and the price. But this can lasted me a good 3 months, so it is worth it. 
Will I repurchase? Yes, already repurchased, this time I bought the unscented version. It is cheaper at Target ($12.99, instead of the $14.99 everywhere else)

Did I like it: Yes, this is my 3rd can. It isn't volumizing, I just use it as a light hold finishing hairspray. 
Will I repurchase? I buy mine at walmart ($4.74), so next time I go to walmart, I will pick up another can.

Carols Daughter Clarifying Shampoo and Conditioner
Did I like it: YES. I use this once a week to remove all buildup in my hair. It cleans my scalp very well and leaves a tingly clean feeling. The conditioner makes my hair super silky and smooth.
Will I repurchase? Yes, I already did. 


Number 4 Clarifying Shampoo (birchbox sample)
Did I like it: Yes. It has a pleasant smell and really cleans the scalp well.
Will I repurchase? No. it is $32, which is more then I would like to spend on a clarifying shampoo, especially since I like the Carol's daughter clarifying shampoo much better and it is half the price. 

Did I like it: YES. This stuff is amazing. I use it every friday. This lasted me a good 3 months, so it is well worth the money. After I use this, I can't help myself from smelling my hair over and over. 
It gives me smooth, shiny, frizz free hair ( like I just came home from the salon)
Will I repurchase? Yes. 


Lets move on to skincare:


March 2013 Birchbox


I always get so excited when I get my birchbox in the mail. 

Let me tell you what birch box is, just in case you are not familiar with it.
It's a monthly subscription service which is $10.00 a month where you get sent 5-6 high-end samples each month. First you take a little survey so they can find out more about your skin, make up likes and dislikes so they know what to send you.

You know how I love trying out new products? Well, with the birch box, I can try high end products without having to buy full size products. If I love the product, then I can go buy it :)

If you are interested in checking it out, go to Birch Box



Lets get started:

Macadamia Natural Oil Full size: $39.05
What Birchbox says: Quicker then a trip to hawaii, this feather weight hair treatment woos us with a combination of lush macadamia nut and argan oils. 
What I say: I used to be scared of oils for my hair (since I get oily) however with the right oils and using the correct amount I have become a believer. I can see what the hype is all about. I use it right after I finish drying my hair. I take a drop and rub it into my palms and them apply it to my hair (avoiding my roots) it gets rid of any frizz and it is also healing for the ends. 

What Birchbox says: made with macadamia and tea tree oils, this rich treatment strengthens strands from the inside while also adding major gloss.
What I say: I tried this hair mask and liked it, however I am not convinced to buy it. I prefer the carols daughter monoi deep repair mask


What Birchbox says: Opposites attract in this gentle but seriously effective remover.
What I say: It is nice, however I love my bioderma more, I can use that on my eyes and face to remove all makeup. 

What Birchbox says: Intense long lasting color that is smudge proof.
What I say: This is a long lasting lipstick, the color is very bright and I don't fully apply it, I just apply a light wash and it still lasts a few hours. glad to see they have more neutral colors. 

What birchbox says: Layers of lotus flowers, peach and lychee, its free of parabens, sulfates and synthetics.
What I say: This stuff smells so good!! the sample has a little roller ball and is easy to apply. I can see myself buying the full size bottle. 

Beauty extra:

This was a nice extra (especially since my son snapped my old one in half) I love the pattern on it


Thanks so much for visiting and I hope you have a wonderful day



February Birchbox



Whenever I get my birchbox in the mail, I get so excited. I don't peek into my birchbox profile, so it is always a surprise on what I am getting. This month I was not disappointed. 

Don't know what birchbox is?

It's a monthly subscription service which is $10.00 a month. First you take a little survey, so they can find out more about your skin, make up likes and dislikes. Just so they know what to send you. You get 4-5 high end samples in the mail. You can then turn around and review your products for points. You get 10 points per product review. So you can get 50 points per box. 100 points is $10 you can use at the birchbox store. 

I love this because I get to try products that I would have never had a chance to try. A lot of them were amazing, and I have purchased them on my own. 

Now, lets see what I got in this months box:





What Birchbox says:  Adenosine improves skin’s elasticity, and arbutin brightens and evens out skin tone. Rare caviar extract promotes collagen production, while titanium dioxide and zinc oxide provide broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection

What I say: The sample size was enough for 2 uses. I was impressed at the coverage of this BB cream. I didn't even need to wear any concealer,   which is unusual because of my hyper-pigmentation. 
I like that the full size comes with a pump.
This BB cream is pretty highly rated online, the reviews say that it even improves your skin with frequent use.. I can see why. It is a perfect daily use.

I am putting this on my list to buy. I usually use a tinted moisturizer on a daily basis, but this has better coverage and lasts longer then my current tinted moisturizer. 


What Birchbox says:  Bright and zesty mandarin, crisp green apple, and tart red currant notes open up the fragrance, while soft lily of the valley and orange blossom lend it a hint of chic femininity.

What I say: This is a pleasant smell, I don't like it more then the viva la juicy, but more then the original Juicy. Won't be purchasing. 


What Birchbox says: The fine, lightweight foam sinks immediately into wet strands for long-lasting volume.


What I say: I am not a big fan of hair styling products, I usually prefer hairspray and dry shampoo. But I used this and am in love! You spray it in the roots of your wet hair, then blow dry. It looks like I back combed, but I didn't. The volume is still there the next day to! It doesnt leave your hair, sticky or nasty. It just feels like there is a bit of texture at your roots. As soon as I run out, I am buying the full size!

theBalm / Hot Mama Blush full size: $20

What Birchbox says: This illuminating powder is one of the most flattering blush, highlighter, and shadow combos we’ve ever come across. It combines subtle color with light-reflecting silica particles to give us the peachy keen complexions we’ve always wanted. Wear it on your cheeks, your lids, and wherever you want to add a dose of shimmery warmth.

What I say: This is such a great sample size. It is a beautiful color, I can see why it is so highly rated (and even sold out on Birchbox) It will suit many skin tones.
I can see myself purchasing this, after I run out of my sample.  

swatch of the color:


The treat this time was a Ghirardelli Milk and Caramel square, this is one of my favorite chocolates and was a nice treat. 

That's my birchbox, What did you get in yours?