Tag Archives: cosmetics

Ipsy Bag: May 2014 Review.

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One of the things I love about Ipsy is that they aren’t afraid to mix it up. One month I may receive a bag that consists mostly of makeup, then the next month- it’s all about hair care- and so on. I never feel like I’m receiving too much of the same types of products month after month, which means I rarely get bored.

While May’s bag did include both a cosmetic and hair care product, three out of the five focused on skincare. The bag itself, a cute leaf-printed pouch, was made with really soft material and will most certainly be used again in the future.

What I Received:

derma e Microdermabrasion Scrub

Pacifica Mineral Eyeshadow Duo

Hang Ten Classic Sport SPF50

Lulu Blossom Dreamsicle Body Balm (*FULL SIZE!*)

Eva NYC Rock-a-Wave Curl Cream (*FULL SIZE!*)

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Product # 1: derma e Microdermabrasion Scrub ($32.50)

In April’s Ipsy Bag, I had received a dr. brandt microdermabrasion scrub that I had really liked despite it’s high price tag. This scrub, which is half the cost of the dr. brandt one- is also identical to it- right down to it’s lemon scent. I have combination skin that is prone to occasional breakouts, especially in the more hot and humid months- so these types of products are phenomenal for clearing out my pores and sloughing away any dead skin and bacteria once or twice a week. This particular scrub gave me great results. My skin felt smooth, soft, clean, and refreshed after each use- and the cost is a lot kinder on my wallet than the previous microdermabrasion product I’d received from Ipsy.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I’d actually purchase this scrub instead of the dr. brandt one, not because it isn’t a great product- but because this derma e scrub is less costly, but gives the same fantastic results. I highly recommend this for anyone who needs a little something extra in terms of exfoliation and deep-cleansing for their skin.

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Product # 2: Pacifica Mineral Eyeshadow Duo ($14- $17 for Full-Sized Palettes)

At first glance, I thought the color combination of this duo- a pearl/white sheen and a light purple- was a little odd, and I wasn’t entirely sure if it would look good on my eyes. Fortunately, the shades weren’t too dark, and when blended, gave me a subtle smoky eye that I could wear during the day- including to the office. The downside was that blending this shadow proved to be a task in itself. The colors in this duo aren’t really pigmented that much, and I found myself having to keep applying more and more of each shade to get it to show up on my lids at all.

In terms of longevity, the shadow lasted most of the day with primer- and I didn’t notice any fading or fall-out along the outer corners of my eyes until much later on in the evening (after I’d applied it early in the morning,) so that was another positive aspect of the shadow I was pleased with. Unfortunately, the finished look and the long-lasting formula doesn’t lessen my disappointment with the difficulty I had applying it.

Would I Purchase?: No. I like Pacifica’s body creams, and I’ve heard great things about their perfumes and skin care (although I haven’t tried them for myself yet,) but this eye shadow was so poorly pigmented and the amount of time it took to get it to not only show up, but to blend properly- was frustrating. I’ll stick with my Urban Decay palettes for now.

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Product # 3: Hang Ten Classic Sport SPF50 ($12.99)

One of the most valuable lessons I learned early on in life was to always wear sunscreen. Another valuable lesson, one that I learned the hard way a couple of years ago after a day-long excursion at the beach that resulted in the worst full-body sunburn I’d ever experienced and a week’s worth of being bedridden with sun poisoning- was to always make sure your sunscreen hadn’t expired before you put it on. I replace my bottles often and do expiration date checks regularly for that very reason. I like high level SPFs, so when I saw this colorful tube of SPF50 in May’s Ipsy bag, I was pretty happy.

This waterproof formula, which is free of harmful chemicals or added fragrances- sank into my skin easily and didn’t make me feel or look oily and sticky. I applied this on all of my exposed skin before a recent all-day outing in the sun- and didn’t get burned or red at all. Success!

Would I Purchase?: Yes! With Summer just around the corner, and a week-long trip to Southern California looming not too far in the distance, I’m going to need to stock up on more SPF to get me through the sunny days. This Hang Ten sunscreen is fairly priced and does exactly what it’s supposed to. I have a feeling I’ll be ordering a full-sized bottle soon.

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Product # 4: Lulu Blossom Dreamsicle Body Balm ($10)

Why, oh why, haven’t I heard of LuLu Blossom Cosmetics before now? Natural and vegan? Cute packaging? Even cuter product names? It’s like everything I love about independent cosmetic brands rolled into one- with the added bonus of smelling amazing, too. This non-greasy, all-purpose balm, in a convenient little tin, smelled just like an orange creamsicle- so naturally I wanted to slather it all over myself. Luckily, the balm is pretty solid, which means no mess and no wasting the product by accidentally taking more than necessary, either. A little goes a long way- and I managed to moisturize my elbows, knees, cuticles- and even tame a few frizzy flyaways- with just a couple of dabs from the tin. This is definitely another “perfect for traveling” product.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! As much as I love a good body cream or lotion, this balm is really convenient- not only for travel, but for the multiple ways it can be used, too. I really liked that it was instantly hydrating, but didn’t leave any kind of film on my skin or in my hair, and more than anything- I really, really liked the citrus/vanilla fragrance- which is very Summer-y.

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Product # 5: Eva NYC Rock-a-Wave Curl Cream ($8)

When it comes to hair styling, I look for products that won’t weigh my curls down or make them look and feel stiff or crunchy. It wasn’t easy- but I’ve found a handful of go-to styling creams and sprays that have worked wonders for me over the years. I’m never opposed to trying new products or new brands, of course- so I didn’t hesitate to scrunch this lightly cocoa-scented cream through my freshly washed hair while it was still damp, letting it air dry, and hoping for the best.

The result was soft, manageable curls that were refreshingly crunch and frizz-free (thanks in part to the Argan Oil, I’m sure.) My hair looked shiny- not slimy- and felt hydrated and conditioned. I have a feeling this product will join my collection of keepers.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! For $8 a bottle, I would definitely purchase this in the future- and probably in bulk. I have thick hair, but I achieved great results using only about a half-dollar sized amount of this cream. I couldn’t stop touching my curls after each use.

May’s Ipsy bag was a hit for me. I really liked four out of the five products I received (and loved the bag!) and was introduced to a couple of new brands I plan on exploring more in the future- which is really what beauty box subscription services are all about.

Odds & Ends.

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“Ashley, I’m wearing my ugly sneakers. Don’t show the internet my ugly sneakers.” Me (left) and my mom. Mother’s Day 2014.

In my teens, my relationship with my mother was strained and tumultuous, to say the least. I was a stubborn, rebellious, and often ungrateful pain in the ass who thought I was right about everything- and my mom, who was just as stubborn, had the common sense- and what I considered to be audacity at the time- to tell me I wasn’t, in fact, right about everything- and what an obnoxious twit I was being. I vividly remember shouting matches between us being a weekly occurrence while my poor father or older brothers tried to play referee before tempers flared too much and something in my parents’ house got broken. I’m pretty sure I damaged more than one door from slamming them so hard on a regular basis.

In my early twenties, things hadn’t improved much. My mother and I could never really see eye to eye on a lot of things- be it my wardrobe, my impulsive and sometimes reckless travels, my circle of friends, or the guys I dated (in her defense- she did end up being absolutely right about them- although back then I’d never have given her the satisfaction of letting her know that.) I never thought things would improve between us, and I had vowed that if and when I had children of my own- I would never be the type of mother to them that mine was to me.

But naturally, as I got older, matured a little, gained some perspective about myself and the world around me- the underlying bitter tension between my mother and I seemed to diminish slowly but surely and was instead replaced with patience and understanding as we started to connect and bond. When my dad became ill a couple of years ago, my mom and I drew strength from each other, and came to rely heavily on one another to get us through the toughest of times when he passed away a short time later. We grieved together. She’d lost her husband- the love of her life, and I’d lost my father and best friend. In the wake of that loss and the grieving, we’d finally fully-developed the mutual respect that had been missing during my teens and early twenties.

It’s not always easy. Sometimes I drive my mom nuts and vice-versa. Sometimes we argue or make each other cry- because, like I said- we’re both stubborn- but we both finally understand how much we truly love each other and how that love comes with no strings attached.  I love my mom. I respect her, and I’m grateful for all the sacrifices she’s made for me (including some of her sanity, I’m sure.) I don’t have kids- and probably won’t for a long time- but if and when I do- I can only hope to be at least half the type of mother to them that my mom is to me.

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For Mother’s Day this past weekend, my mom and I spent the day shopping (including buying each other lovely candles!) disregarding our healthy diets to scarf down a platter of deep fried seafood and fries- and go for a nice, long drive through the back roads of picturesque Western Massachusetts to take in the scenery, sunshine, and fresh air. It was a beautiful, relaxing day- and set the tone for the remainder of this week.

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Another thing that set the tone for this week? An AMAZING belated-birthday (or on the flip side- a very, very, very early birthday present) from my wonderful, beautiful, incredible friend Imogen across the pond! It was on my table when I came home from work yesterday afternoon, and I admittedly teared up- in a good way- while reading the very kind words she wrote inside my card. I will cherish it always.

I was more than content with the card and the caramel mini eggs, but Imogen had included a couple more surprises for me, too!

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In the world of Harry Potter, my favorite house has always been Slytherin. Save for a few genuinely bad eggs, I’ve always thought Slytherins were misunderstood, or, such as the case with Draco Malfoy, misguided- as opposed to just genetically downright evil (yes, I’m aware I’m talking about fictional characters. I just have a lot of feelings, okay?!)

Anyway- any quiz, game, or questionnaire related to determining which Hogwarts House I’d belong in, I’ve hilariously always ended up in Slytherin. Imogen (a Ravenclaw for sure,) knows this, and sent me a pair of Slytherin leggings to wear to proudly show my support for what is CLEARLY the best house.

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And last, but certainly not least, Imogen- who is a huge “Walking Dead” fan like me- sent me the full collection of TWD-themed eye shadows from Geek Chic Cosmetics. With fun names like “Stay in the House, Carl,” and “He’s Korean,” I CANNOT WAIT to try these out. I’ll be doing a separate post within the next few days dedicated entirely to these shadows- including swatches and reviews.

Imogen, THANK YOU. THANK YOU. THANK YOU. I’m seriously at a loss for words right now because of how surprised and appreciative I am. I adore you! This was one of the best belated/super early birthday presents ever!

These past couple of days have been so phenomenal!

GLOSSYBOX: April 2014 Review.

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Oh, GlossyBox, what can I say about you that hasn’t already been said? Some months, you blow me away with the quality and value of what you send me (March’s box was a perfect example of that.) Other months, I’m underwhelmed- but one thing always stays consistent- your shipping method is downright stressful. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve grown accustomed to being charged for my box at the beginning of the month, only to receive it weeks later, sometimes at the beginning of the following month- but April’s shipping was pretty much a disaster. From my understanding, the boxes were sent out at the last possible second before billing began for May, and trying to track them was near impossible.

GlossyBox, I love you- I do! I’ve been introduced to so many wonderful brands and products through your service (and $21 a month is a steal!) but you’ve got to get your shipping under control. I don’t expect it to always be perfect, because things happen and that’s life- but there needs to be some improvement, if only a little bit to keep subscribers in the loop on the status of their stuff!

Anyway, I DID eventually receive April’s box, so let’s get to it.

What I Received:

Caldrea Tea Olive Lime Body Wash

Bellápierre Cosmetics Super Gloss in ‘Vanilla Pink’ (*FULL SIZE!*)

Ciaté London Paint Pot Nail Polish in ‘Twinset and Pearls’ (*FULL SIZE!*)

Aqua Spa Relax Body Crème

LA Splash Cosmetics Eyeshadow Sealer/Base (*FULL SIZE!*)

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Product # 1: Caldrea Tea Olive Lime Body Wash ($18)

I can appreciate any product that smells like a dessert, so when I first caught a whiff of this foaming body wash, which reminded me of Key lime pie- I was pretty excited to try it out. The wash itself lathered up nicely, and paired with the lime fragrance, which wasn’t too overpowering- it was actually really refreshing. My skin felt hydrated and smooth- and stayed that way long after my shower.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! This is one of those products that I’d not only love to have for myself, but available for guests, as well- and it would also make a wonderful gift. I really liked the fragrance (I’m a big fan of anything citrus,) but I especially loved how soft- but cleansed- my skin felt after each use.

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Product # 2: Bellápierre Cosmetics Super Gloss in ‘Vanilla Pink’ ($24.50)

When I saw this tube of rosy-neutral lip gloss upon opening April’s GlossyBox, I wasn’t exactly excited, and was already prepared to be blasé about how it looked on my lips. Whenever cosmetic subscription services send any kind of lip color, nine times out of ten- it’s a rose/neutral- and it can get sort of boring after a while! Regardless, I opted to give it a chance- and I’m certainly glad I did! This vanilla-scented gloss, packed with vitamin E and moisturizing oils, applied smoothly, not sticky- and left a slightly-frosted finish that didn’t look too shiny or sparkly. It was just right, and didn’t wash me out.

I loved the way this product looked and felt, but there was only one downside- the longevity. This gloss didn’t last nearly as long as I would have hoped, and multiple re-applications were necessary to keep the color on my lips.

Would I Purchase?: Maybe. I really did love the overall quality of this gloss, from the color to the finish to how soft it made my lips feel- but it’s lack of staying power is a near deal-breaker for me. If Bellápierre Cosmetics could re-formulate this so that it had the same texture and consistency, but lasted twice as long- I’d buy it in a heartbeat for sure!

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Product # 3: Ciaté London Paint Pot Nail Polish in ‘Twinset and Pearls’ ($15)

I’ve heard a lot of good things about Ciaté nail polishes before, but had never actually tried them until I received this bottle in April’s GlossyBox. At first glance, I thought the packaging was simply adorable (look at the little bow! Just look at it!) and the pearl color of the lacquer seemed really pretty. When it came time to get a proper manicure this weekend, I brought this product with me- and although the polish applied easily enough and dried quickly, I was a little disappointed with how transparent this particular color looked on my nails, like I had nothing on them at all! Ciaté is advertised as being highly pigmented, so I was a bit let-down with this one.

Would I Purchase?: No. Don’t get me wrong- I would LOVE to try some of the other beautiful shades Ciaté has to offer, but I wouldn’t purchase “Twinset and Pearls” again. It did absolutely nothing for me.

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Product # 4: Aqua Spa Relax Body Crème ($9.99)

Having run out of my hand lotion earlier this week, I was relieved to find a nice (albeit slightly warped) travel-sized tube of hand/body cream in my April box to use as a replacement. This rich cream smells heavenly- truly relaxing and therapeutic- and sank into my skin without leaving behind any kind of film or greasy residue. My hands felt intensely moisturized and soft for hours, and the fragrance lasted just as long. Even now as I type this, I can still smell traces of the lavender! I think this would be a great before-bed body cream to hydrate the skin and calm the mind. It’s lovely.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! Like the body wash I received in April’s box, this is another universally awesome product that I’d not only keep for myself, but purchase to gift to others, too. The moisturizing benefits of this cream are fantastic, but so is the aromatherapy!

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Product # 5: LA Splash Cosmetics Eyeshadow Sealer/Base ($8.99)

I’m a stickler for my Urban Decay Primer Potion. It’s worked well for me for years, and I’ve never really had a reason to venture to other eye shadow primers because of it. I’m never opposed to trying something new, however, and seeing that this primer had a convenient doe foot applicator for mess-free precision- I gave it a go and hoped for the best.

So here’s the good news: this primer held my eye shadow in place all day. I mean all. day. There was no creasing, no fading, and no flaking. My shadow didn’t budge and looked freshly applied from morning ’til night. Great, right?

The bad news? Applying this stuff was a nightmare. It was sticky, like glue, and felt heavy on my lids even after it had dried- and even though it held my shadow in place, actually applying and blending the shadow on top of this product was a process all in itself since the consistency of the primer was so tacky. Yikes.

Would I Purchase?: No. Despite the fact that this primer packs a powerful punch in terms of all-day wear, actually getting this product on my eyelids- comfortably, mind you- was such a hassle that it outweighs the good aspects. I’ll stick with my Urban Decay Primer Potion, thank you!

The shipping debacle aside, I liked April’s GlossyBox. The body wash and body cream were big hits, and even the lip gloss was nice, despite it not lasting all that long on my lips- so three out of five products having favorable reviews isn’t bad at all. May’s box, a collaboration with Bergdorf Goodman, is shaping up to (hopefully) be a great collection of products, so I’m looking forward to that. Fingers crossed that it arrives before mid-June!

Ipsy Bag: April 2014 Review.

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Happy Easter! Before I head out to spend the afternoon with my family and eat half my body weight in chocolate rabbits and Cadbury cream eggs, I wanted to write about April’s Ipsy bag, themed “Beauty Rocks!” (just in time for festival season.) Included in the samples and products I received this month was the Coastal Scents Medium Eye Shadow Brush. Since I already have enough makeup brushes to last me a lifetime (and then some,) I opted to give the brush to a friend instead of only using it once- solely to write about it- and passing it on. Hence, there won’t be a review for it in this post.

Makeup brushes are pretty easy to review, anyway- so even though this post will be short by one of the usual five products I typically receive with the Ipsy subscription service- the other four products I did keep for myself were still a lot of fun to try!

What I Received:

dr. brandt microdermabrasion

Elizabeth Mott pop! goes the shadow in “Champagne” (*FULL SIZE!*)

Starlooks Luscious Longwear Lip Pencil in “Naked” (*FULL SIZE!*)

Urban Decay 24/7 Velvet Glide-On Eye Pencil in “Black Velvet”

Not Pictured:

Coastal Scents Medium Shadow Brush (*FULL SIZE!*)

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Product # 1: dr. brandt microdermabrasion ($78)

Every night, after I remove my makeup and before I go about my usual skin care regimen, I use a gentle cream-based exfoliating scrub to clear out my pores of any dirt or makeup my facial towelettes may have missed. When I first opened this small tube of microdermabrasion cream, with a subtle lemon scent and a texture similar to my daily facial scrub- I anticipated achieving the same results.

After massaging this cream into my cleansed (and slightly damp) skin for a few minutes, as directed on the tube, I rinsed my face and was pleasantly surprised with how much more soft and smooth my skin felt- and how my pores seemed to have shrank in no time at all! While I do still love my scrub, this is a great product to use every few days/nights for extra exfoliation without drying or stripping my skin the way masks or harsher scrubs tend to do.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! While the $78 price tag is a little staggering, I really liked the results I had with this product, and I wouldn’t be opposed to buying a full-sized tube for weekly use. I love the crisp, clean fragrance of the cream, the easy application- and most of all- how great my skin feels and looks after each time I use it.

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Product # 2: Elizabeth Mott pop! goes the shadow in “Champagne” ($12.99)

Even though I have some truly beautiful eye shadow palettes in my collection that include lighter, brightening shades- I can never have enough highlighter shadows- especially for the days where I don’t want to wear a lot of eye makeup but don’t want my eyes to look dark and dreary, either.

Enter this shimmery, nude, single powder shadow from Elizabeth Mott. “Champagne” applied easily- with no flaking or creasing- and stayed put all day and well into the night with a primer. I’ve been wearing it all over my lids and up to my brow for the past few days at work and while running errands- and it definitely brightens up my eyes without making me look too glittery. It’s just a nice, natural shade that I plan on incorporating with my palettes.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! The “POP!’ collection features two other, darker colors as well- both of which look nice for achieving a dramatic eye- but I think “Champagne” will be one of my go-to’s when I ultimately decide to re-stock on eye shadows and highlighters in the future. It’s just a beautiful, complimentary shade on me.

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Product # 3: Starlooks Luscious Longwear Lip Pencil in “Naked” ($14)

When it comes to lip liner, I rarely (if ever) use it. I’m very much a lipstick-n’-leave, gloss-n’-go kind of girl, and lip liners are reserved for special occasions or formal affairs where I know I won’t have time for mirror checks or touch-up breaks. I decided to give this creamy liner from Starlooks a go, however- and while I was pretty impressed with the overall pigmentation (the color was WAY more pink than nude, though,) it didn’t seem to last long before it eventually pooled towards the outer edges of my lips- creating a ring of sorts around my mouth- and then faded completely.

The photo above was taken shortly after I lined my lips with “Naked,” filled them in with the color, and then applied a light layer of neutral gloss to try and tone down the garish baby doll pink. It didn’t work too well, and ultimately this liner washed me out.

Would I Purchase?: No. Between the unflattering color itself, and it’s inability to stay in place or last longer than an hour at the most- I’ll pass on this liner and just keep on with my usual way of wearing lip colors. This product was, unfortunately, a dud for me.

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Product # 4: Urban Decay 24/7 Velvet Glide-On Eye Pencil in “Black Velvet” ($20)

When it comes to eye liners, one of my favorite brands to turn to is Urban Decay. Their pencil liners are soft, pigmented, and they last a really, really long time- much longer than competitors brands. I’d heard of the “Black Velvet” liner, but had yet to try it, so I was pretty excited when I received a travel-sized pencil in April’s Ipsy bag.

Much to my surprise- the pencil was hard, almost rough, against my eyelid, resulting in the color not applying evenly at all. Not only that, but within a couple of hours, the liner had flaked down so badly from my lids onto my cheeks that when I unconsciously brushed  the back of my hand along my face to push some hair away from my eyes, the flaked eyeliner smeared all over my cheekbones- giving me weird black flecks and streaks on my skin.

Not even before the end of the day, the liner had run down the outer corner of my eye, flaked something awful, and was pretty much everywhere on my face except for where I had initially applied it. To say I was disappointed was an understatement.

Would I Purchase?: No. Absolutely not- which is a shame considering how much I like and swear by Urban Decay’s products. This liner was just terrible. I’d advise staying far, far away from the “Velvet” stuff and just use a black pencil from one of their regular “Glide-On” liner collections, instead. You’ll get better application, pigmentation, and longevity from those.

So April’s bag featured two great products, two not-so-great ones, and a nice gift for a friend. Overall, I wasn’t blown away with this month’s assortment of products, although I may be a bit spoiled since the past couple of Ipsy bags I’ve received this year have been beyond great. I’m just hoping May’s bag picks up the slack from April’s.

And my April Loot Crate and GlossyBox should be on their way shortly!

P.S.- Have you entered my Spring Giveaway yet?

Spring Giveaway!

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With a few beautiful days behind me and the promise of even sunnier, warmer ones ahead- I thought I’d celebrate this beautiful and much-anticipated season by doing a giveaway for one lucky U.S-based “Legally Redhead” reader to make their Springtime even more sensational!

I am giving away a pre-paid three-month subscription to one of the following subscription services:

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For The Beauty Buff:

The Service: GlossyBox

The Price: $21 per month.

What It Is: GlossyBox is a beauty and makeup subscription service. They send out 4-5 deluxe and full size beauty products each month.

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For The Geek & Gamer:

The Service: Loot Crate

The Price: $19.37 per month.

What It Is: Loot Crate is monthly subscription service “for geeks and gamers.” Each month they send you collectibles, stickers, (sometimes t-shirts) and other fun items.

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For The Foodie:

The Service: Yumvelope

The Price: $21 per month

What It Is: Yumvelope sends out some of the best-tasting artisanal food products to their customers monthly. $21 gets you a large USPS padded envelope sent to you filled with a minimum of six full-size products, including snacks, drinks, desserts, and chocolates.

Sound good? I certainly hope so!

This giveaway is going to run from today (April 15th) through Tuesday, April 29th at 11:59 P.M. EST., after which a winner will be randomly chosen via the giveaway’s Rafflecopter page. From there, I will contact the winner privately so I can set them up with the three-month subscription of their choice (please remember: the choices are between GlossyBox, Loot Crate, and Yumvelope.)

And now, for the most important part:

HOW TO ENTER:

1. Comment on this post with your first name, your e-mail address, and which of the three subscription services you’d like to try the most. (comment moderation is turned on to avoid spambots- but rest assured I will absolutely approve yours a.s.a.p!)

2. You can also tweet about the giveaway- but please provide a link to this post in your tweet.

3. Visit the giveaway’s Rafflecopter page to verify you’ve commented and/or tweeted. This is essential, because I am choosing the winner via Rafflecopter’s random selection process- and I want to be sure everyone gets a fair chance by having their entries show up accurately!

That’s it! Good luck to everyone who enters!

Side note: Don’t fret, readers outside the U.S! When this giveaway is done, I will be having another one (with a similar prize) especially for you shortly afterwards. I am in the process of researching subscription services that provide shipment to other countries (and I always welcome suggestions!)

Any questions/concerns can be sent to me directly at AshleyDeLarge@gmail.com

xox

Just For Redheads Beauty Products Review.

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If my pictures (or at least the title of this blog) weren’t enough of an indication, I have bright red hair and very fair skin- and while I love the head-turning combination of the two, it makes buying flattering cosmetics a little tricky at times. It’s easy for some beauty products to wash me out- or worse- make me look orange. It’s even easier for certain colors of eye shadows or lipsticks to cause me to not only stumble, but trip and fall completely over the line between “natural’ and “character out of a Tim Burton movie” with little to no effort at all. I have to tread carefully when trying new cosmetics, as made evident by my beauty box subscription reviews over the months.

I was recently contacted by Just For Redheads Beauty Products, a cosmetics company based out of Arizona that specialize in skincare, hair care, and makeup for- you guessed it- redheads. Founded by Paula Pennypacker in 1993, Just For Redheads, or “JFR” for short, have a wide array of products at reasonable, affordable prices for fiery-haired females like myself to help us achieve both natural, everyday makeup looks, as well as less-harsh dramatic looks, too. Their hair care is col0r-safe, and the nourishing shampoos and conditioners contain sunscreen to help protect sensitive scalps and prevent reds from fading. Not only that, JFR have an assortment of nail polishes, brushes, and beauty tools, too. They’ve been featured in PEOPLE Magazine, the LA Times, and on the Lifetime Network, among other media. Best of all? They ship internationally- so lovely redheads outside of the U.S. can get their hands on these products, too!

I was asked if I’d be interested in trying some of their products, and of course I jumped at the chance! My bundle of stuff arrived quicker than I anticipated, and I was beyond excited to dive right in and use everything. All of the products I received were full-sized, and came with an emery board and two pencil sharpeners (which I’m especially thankful for, because I have a habit of misplacing my sharpeners constantly.)

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Cream Shadow Eye Lighter in “Antique Brass”

First things first- I loved the silky texture of this combination nude/soft gold shadow. It wasn’t too hard or too “crumbly” the way other cream shadows can be on contact. It applied smoothly, and gave me just enough color where I could wear it on it’s own for a subtle hint of shimmer, build it to a slightly more noticeable smoky eye, or use it as a base to create a different look all together. I DO recommend using a primer with this product, as I do with all shadows (even the cream ones.) My eyelids are more on the oily side, so wearing this shadow all by itself with no primer caused it to crease in no time at all. With a primer, however- it stayed in place comfortably for hours without budging or fading.

This particular formula of shadow comes in ten different shades, all of them lovely, but I feel “Antique Brass” would also be most suitable for highlighting he brow bone, too. It’s just a great, versatile color.

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"Baroque"

“Baroque”

"Sienna"

“Sienna”

(*PLEASE NOTE: I’m wearing my green contact lenses in the photos above. The colors of the liners appear similar against the natural blue of my eyes, as well.*)

Ultimate Gel Eye Liners in “Baroque” and “Sienna”

Give me gel eyeliner in a pencil form, and I will give you my money. Like the cream shadow, these pencils were incredibly silky- and not at all irritating on my delicate eyelid (they have Vitamin E and Jojoba Oil in them, which may explain that.) The colors: “Baroque,” a beautiful, shiny pewter shade, and “Sienna,” a less shiny, deep brown- applied without fuss or smudging. If the pigmentation of the shades or mess-free and smooth application weren’t enough to win me over, then the lasting power definitely did it. These liners stayed in place all day without fading, flaking, or running down underneath my eye. I was thrilled.

This type of eyeliner only comes in these two shades right now, but I’m hoping JFR add more selections soon because I love these  so much. Between the two, I’d have to say my favorite shade is “Baroque,” if only because of the shimmer it has and the way it seems to brighten my whole eye area- but I’ve been wearing both colors regularly since I’ve received them.

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Mascara Voyage in “Ginger Auburn”

While I have overall fair features, my eyebrows and eyelashes have always been on the darker side. As such, I’ve been fortunate enough to be able to wear dramatic amounts of black mascara and pull it off (at least I’d like to think so.) From past experience, I need quite a few brush strokes of brown or brown/black mascara to get it to show up on me. This mascara, a medium-brown, and with a tapered brush to get to those pesky corner lashes, did require more than a couple swipes- and the result was a very natural, very subtle look I thought would be appropriate for work or for those “au naturale” makeup days.

Application wise, this mascara didn’t clump or flake everywhere, and although I’ve become so accustomed to the dramatic, false-lash look, I can see myself wearing this during the day in the office. This formula comes in four shades, and I think if I were to purchase one in the future- I would probably go one shade darker, just to match my eyelashes a little more closely.

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Brow Tint in “Auburn”

When I first unscrewed the cap of this brow tint, I was a little concerned with how light it appeared on the mascara-style-brush. As I’ve mentioned, my brows and eyelashes are on the darker side, so I was worried that this would make them look strange. Even still, I wanted to try it. I applied the tint gingerly, gradually adding more when I saw how well the color blended with my brows. When I was done, my eyebrows looked fuller, even, and most importantly- natural. There was no weird residue left behind, or stiffness to the touch. I think out of everything I received in my JFR care package, this product was the most pleasantly surprising. At first glance, I never would have guessed the color would have looked so good.

This formula comes in three shades, “Auburn” being the medium between the other two available colors.

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Clockwise from top left: Beachy, Sultry, Chestnut, and Desir.

Clockwise from top left: Beachy, Sultry, Chestnut, and Desir.

Auburn Mineral Lipstick Kit

Finally, to go with my assortment of eye products, JFR sent me this lipstick/balm compact that fits perfectly in my makeup bag. The colors, selected specifically for those with Auburn hair, are universally flattering and range between the light nude “Chestnut,’ to the subtle pink “Beachy,” to the deeper, more dramatic “Desir,” and finally, the bold and bright “Sultry.” The lipsticks, applied with a brush, were hydrating and non-sticky, and lasted for a really long time. I only had to re-apply once or twice throughout the day, and my lips didn’t feel dry or cracked even after the color wore off. These balms didn’t leave behind any kind of stain or ring around the edges of my lips, either- which is always a plus.

There are two types of these compacts: “Auburn” and “Strawberry Blonde” (lighter shades.) From the “Auburn” compact, I think my favorite color by far is “Chestnut.” I love a good nude color, and this one was fantastic.

Overall, I am so, so pleased with everything I received from JFR. This is a great line for women with red hair and/or fair skin who have been searching for alternatives for more natural-looking, quality beauty products that won’t break the bank or give undesirable results. I’m so appreciative for the opportunity to write up this review. I greatly enjoyed trying everything that was sent to me- and look forward to making purchases from the brand in the future. Thanks, JFR!*

*I do not work for Just For Redheads Beauty Products, nor am I being paid by JFR for this review. All opinions in this post are entirely my own.*

xx

GLOSSYBOX: March 2014 Review.

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This past weekend has been a strange one. On Saturday morning, while heading down the walkway towards my driveway and my car, I slipped on a patch of ice that had accumulated when the melting snow pooled and froze overnight. Now, I’m no stranger to taking a tumble. I’ve lost my footing enough times to know what a sprained tailbone or scraped knees feel like- but this time, I fell forward onto my face. Luckily, I had the mind to put my hands out in front of me to try and break my fall, if only a little, but I still managed to successfully smash my mouth and nose off of the back of my hands- resulting in quite the nosebleed and the slight shifting of my two front teeth from the force of the impact.

When the blood was rinsed away and the initial shock wore off, I noticed a small gap between my front teeth that hadn’t been there before. In fact, I hadn’t seen that gap since I was 13 (the year I got braces,) and it’s unexpected return resulted in a call to my dentist and the setting up of a couple of appointments within the next couple of weeks for x-rays and procedures to fix the damage. I was briefly on a precautionary diet of soft foods only (i.e.- soup, pudding, and instant breakfast mixes,) but have since gone back to eating regular food as the swelling goes down and the cuts on the inside of my mouth begin to heal.

Mind the gap! A few hours after my initial faceplant- sans-blood everywhere.

Mind the gap!
A few hours after my initial faceplant- sans-blood everywhere.

Despite some soreness and general nervousness at the possibility of having to have any kind of surgery, even if it’s minor, I’m not without humor about the situation. I’ve been embracing my temporary Georgia May Jagger/Vanessa Paradis’ tooth-gap while I have it, and my friends (and my mom!) have been so good at keeping my spirits up. I’d originally had a date on Saturday night with Troy to see the new Muppets movie and get ice cream- the Muppets being my idea, of course, and the ice cream being his- and obviously that was postponed- but he was a good sport about it and unbelievably compassionate. I’m hoping to re-schedule soon.

My March GlossyBox arrived last Friday, and with a few quiet days at home as I recovered from my accident, I decided to make the most of my unplanned time off and have some fun with the products I received.

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This month’s GlossyBox came with an extra surprise in the form of a beautiful bangle bracelet from Alex and Ani. I own two A&A bracelets, the “Aunt” charm from my niece, brother, and sister-in-law- and a skeleton key charm from my aunt and uncle. I love them both, and this swan charm will be a nice addition to the collection.

WHAT I RECEIVED:

Alex and Ani “Scent 7” Soap Bar (*Full Size!*)

Alterna Haircare’s Bamboo Volume “Plumping Strand Expand”

Nails, Inc. Nail Polish in “Brook Street”

Sisley: Paris’ Black Rose Cream Mask

Etre Belle Cosmetics Anti-Aging Liplift Peel (*Full Size!*)

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Product # 1: Alex and Ani “Scent 7” Soap Bar ($14)

Alex and Ani really went all out in March’s GlossyBox, first with the charm bracelet, and then with this full-sized bar of soap from their new “Scent 7” collection. I’m a sucker for pretty soaps, and this one was particularly luxurious- not only because of how nice it smelled (like the perfect combination of spices and a hint of musk,) but also because of how nice it felt on my skin. The bar lathered up nicely, made my skin feel squeaky-clean and conditioned without drying it out or leaving behind any kind of residue. The fragrance also stayed on my skin for quite some time after I dried off, which was nice. I love it!

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I think this is a great soap, and definitely something I’d like to keep next to my tub in the future. I also think this would make a lovely gift for any bath product aficionado because of it’s quality and price-point. I’d like to try more products from this fragrance collection.

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Product # 2: Alterna Haircare’s Bamboo Volume “Plumping Strand Expand” ($22)

I’ve used Alterna Bamboo products in the past (specifically their ‘BoHo Waves” spray,) and loved the results, so seeing another product from the line that I was otherwise unfamiliar with was a treat. My hair is naturally pretty thick, so I wasn’t sure if the results this “plumping” cream was supposed to give me would actually be noticeable. I applied as directed, pinned my hair up, and let it dry overnight. When I brushed out my hair the following morning, my hair felt soft, and smooth, but didn’t look or feel particularly thicker. Although the results weren’t necessarily bad, this isn’t something I think I would need in my hair styling regimen.

Would I Purchase?: No. I think this product might be better suited for those with finer hair, as it could possibly thicken their strands better than it did mine- but I’ll stick to my usual products. The texture of this cream felt nice, not heavy- and it’s perfectly suitable for those with color-treated hair- but it didn’t “wow” me.

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Product # 3: Nails, Inc. Nail Polish in “Brook Street” ($9.50)

Ah, Nails, Inc. We meet again- and this time- you’re in the most irresistible of shades. I don’t care if it’s not going to be Summer for a few more months- one look at this tropical pink/coral color and I had to have it on my nails immediately. I’m a big fan of the Nails, Inc. polishes I’ve received in my beauty box subscriptions so far- from their wide array of shades, to their finishes, and to the longevity of their formulas. This lacquer was no exception. I’m absolutely smitten with the color. Really. The photo above doesn’t do it justice.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I would definitely purchase a full-sized bottle of “Brook Street.” It’s so bright, fun, and Summer-y. I have a feeling I’ll be sporting this non-stop from June through August when I spend the majority of my weekends cruising the coast or running around on the beach and the boardwalk.

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Product # 4: Sisley: Paris’ Black Rose Cream Mask ($158)

Yes, you read that correctly. A 2.1 .oz tube of this mask goes for $158 a pop. When I discovered that tidbit of information, I was almost afraid to open the tiny sample I received for fear that I would somehow destroy it before I had the chance to try it. When I think of face masks, I think of heavy clays, or painful peels (R.I.P. eyebrows,) but the Black Rose Cream Mask is applied almost like a moisturizer, left on undisturbed for 10-15 minutes, and then any excess is gently wiped off. I used the sample as directed, taking in the light rose fragrance of the mask as I applied it- waited the appropriate amount of time- give or take a few minutes- and then lightly tissued my face.

The results? There were none. My skin looked, and felt, the exact same way it had before I applied the mask. There was no noticeable smoothness, or softness. My skin wasn’t particularly hydrated more than usual. Even when I attempted a little more of the mask a few days later, I still didn’t see a difference.

Would I Purchase?: No. Are you kidding? Absolutely not. $158 is entirely too much money to be spending on such a small amount of product that gives me no better result than if I had applied a lightweight moisturizer, instead. Save the money you would have wasted on this dud of a product and spend it on a mask that actually works, instead.

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Product # 5: Etre Belle Cosmetics Anti-Aging Liplift Peel ($18)

As it turns out, when you fall and smash your face and have to go to the dentist to assess the damage- your lips tend to end up a little cracked and dry at the end of the day. Who would have thought? It should come as no surprise that I was beyond relieved to get a lip exfoliator- with a convenient angled tip for a mess-free application- just in time to relieve my pout. Even after just one use, my lips felt so much softer and looked a lot less chapped. I also noticed that when I used this product and applied lipstick shortly afterwards, the color went on a lot smoother and stayed in place a little longer than usual.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I thought this lip exfoliant was fantastic, and a little bit goes a long way. This is one of those products I plan on keeping in my makeup bag at all times should I need a pre-lipstick prep or just a quick refresher for my lips in case they get a little rough during the day. This stuff really works, and it only takes a minute to use it.

Three products I loved, two I didn’t- and a beautiful bracelet to make up for said two samples that didn’t blow me away? Overall, I’d say March’s GlossyBox was a hit. I loved the variety in what I received, as well as the value (which was pretty incredible this month!) Keep it up, GB.

xox

Ipsy Bag: March 2014 Review.

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For the first time since joining Ipsy, the products included with my March bag actually sort of went along with the month’s theme, “Destination Beauty,” which had a Spring Break/tropical vibe to it. The bag itself, a collaboration with artist Klari Reis, is by far my favorite out of the ones I’ve received so far. I loved the colors and the pattern, and will be using it as a little clutch for my phone and lip gloss come Summer.

February’s Ipsy bag was one of the best, in my opinion- so I was more than ready to see how March’s compared to it.

What I Received:

Be a Bombshell “Bora Bora” Eyeshadow Quad (*Full Size!*)

Nicole by OPI Roughles Nail Lacquer in “On What Grounds?” (*Full Size!*)

Klorane Smoothing and Relaxing Patches

bareMinerals Marvelous Moxie Lipstick in “Get Ready”

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Product # 1: Be a Bombshell “Bora Bora” Eyeshadow Quad ($16)

Even though there’s still snow on the ground, I couldn’t help but feel like I was going on a vacation in some faraway tropical paradise when I used this beachy eye shadow quad for the first time. With rich golden and brown tones, and a beautiful deep aqua shade- this shadow applied easily, evenly, and didn’t budge or flake for hours. The photo above is just one of the looks I created with the quad (using the aqua as a subtle liner and predominantly featuring the golden/reddish hue on my lid,) but there’s so many gorgeous combinations you can make with this product. I’m very, very impressed.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I think I’m going to save the “Bora Bora” quad for the Summer when the colors are a bit more appropriate, but I would absolutely purchase this again in the future if and when I run out. This quad was decent quality and it’s inexpensive to boot- which is always a plus for someone like me who doesn’t like wasting money on overpriced cosmetics that are poor quality or give shoddy results. This was a pleasant surprise.

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Product # 2: Nicole by OPI Roughles Nail Lacquer in “On What Grounds?” ($7.99)

Some people hate textured nail lacquers. Personally, I love them. I think they’re usually fun and unique- so I was all about trying this sky blue “pebbled” polish A.S.A.P. Much like the “Bora Bora” quad, this lacquer from OPI reminded me of afternoons by the ocean in San Diego. It applied easily, giving great coverage in just two coats (and despite the bottle stating that a top coat wasn’t necessary, I applied one anyway to add some longevity to the polish since I do a lot of typing.) I adore the color, and the rough-looking finish. I’ve read reviews by some people who have also received this product in their March Ipsy bag that say that the texture “snags” on clothing, etc. but I have yet to experience that problem.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! This is a beautiful Spring/Summertime polish with a cool twist. I love the blue, and I would gladly purchase the other available shades in this formula, too.

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Product # 3: Klorane Smoothing and Relaxing Patches ($18)

In February’s GlossyBox, I had really enjoyed the Anatomicals under-eye patches I’d received. When I saw these individually packaged patches in this month’s Ipsy bag, I had hoped I’d like them just as much. Unfortunately, these patches weren’t nearly as cooling and refreshing as the Anatomicals ones. On the contrary, they made my under-eye area feel a little dry, and kind of itchy. Fortunately, the feeling went away shortly after I peeled them off, and naturally- I didn’t notice any smoothing or de-puffing results. These patches were a bust.

Would I Purchase?: No. I think I’m going to stick with my Anatomicals patches. I had better results with those. This product might be better suited for others, but they caused minor and temporary irritation to my eye area. Definitely not worth purchasing.

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Product # 4: bareMinerals Marvelous Moxie Lipstick in “Get Ready” ($18)

It wouldn’t be Spring without the obligatory pink-hued lipstick/lip gloss sample in monthly subscription boxes. I’m not complaining- I just expected it. I’ve never tried bareMinerals makeup before, as I’ve heard mixed reviews over the years. Some friends love it, others, not so much- so I was pretty neutral when I first applied this little tube of rose-colored lipstick.

First things first, this color applies amazingly smooth and the finish is like a combination of a lipstick and a lip gloss, which was nice. It wasn’t too shiny and yet it wasn’t matte, either. The lipstick is also very pigmented, so a little goes a long way and the color is pretty noticeable after only a couple of swipes across the lips. Also- this formula lasts a LONG time. After my morning coffee, after lunch, and well into the afternoon- there was still color on my lips.

Now, the downside. I don’t know exactly what it was in this particular formula- but this lipstick dried my lips out. It wasn’t so severe it was excruciatingly painful or anything, but it was a minor discomfort throughout the day- which was kind of a surprise considering how creamy the texture of it is. I attempted to re-apply this product with a balm under it, and then again with a balm over it, which helped a little- but my lips still felt uncomfortable.

Would I Purchase?: No. As flattering as the color was and as nice as this lipstick applied- the unusual drying result isn’t worth a purchase of a full-size in any of the available colors. A shame, really- since the pigmentation is really good and the longevity was stellar.

So, to summarize: we have a really cute bag, two products I loved, and two products that missed their mark. While March’s Ipsy bag wasn’t as much of a success as February’s- it still wasn’t bad. I wasn’t in love with everything I received, but overall- I was still pleased.

It helps that the two products I liked were the full-sized ones, of course.

Sephora Mini-Haul: Spring 2014.

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There may still be some snow left on the ground (currently being washed away with rain as we speak,) and I might not be able to go outside without at least having a sweatshirt or a light jacket on- but Spring is definitely in the air here in New England. It’s only a matter of time before the flowers bloom, the boots and winter coats get tucked into the back of my closet until much later on this year, and I can wear skirts and heels without having to worry about busting my ass on ice or getting gross city-slush sprayed all over me from passing cars while I’m walking alongside snow banks.

It also means I have to lighten my makeup, in which I transition out of the dramatic wine-colored lip or the dark, bold eye I love so much in the colder months and replace them with something a bit more season-appropriate. Since this past Winter seemed as though it was neverending, I’ve been beyond eager to dive into pinks and nudes and light purples. Unfortunately, since my last makeup purge of empty and expired products- I didn’t have much to work with.

Earlier this afternoon, I had stopped by Sephora to replenish my eye shadow primer (the tube I currently have is on it’s death bed,) and while I was there- I figured I’d splurge (just a little bit!) and pick up some stuff to get me through Spring.

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I finally got around to picking up the coveted “Naked 3” palette from Urban Decay. I am so pasty I’m practically transparent, so I have to be careful when it comes to rose/pink eye shadows- but these shades, some of which have a subtle golden undertone to them- look AMAZING with my skin tone.  There are a variety of shimmery and matte tones to work with, so I can go from an everyday neutral look to a dramatic one in little to no time at all, which is awesome. “Naked 3” came with a double-ended brush and a sample of UD’s ‘Primer Potion’ (which I was unaware of until I opened the box- after purchasing a full-sized one,) and I’m really looking forward to playing around with this palette in the coming months. (Urban Decay “Naked 3” Palette: $52)

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My current blush is a combination of a deep rose/brown-ish tone, which is great for the Winter- but for the Spring, I wanted to lean towards something a little more peachy/pink. I wanted something that wouldn’t look orange or fuchsia on my fair skin. To achieve the desired shade, I turned to Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in “Luminous Flush,” which is described as being a champagne-rose color but looks more like a soft coral on my cheeks. This blush has just enough shimmer in it to make me look like I have a healthy, natural glow- not a radioactive one. (Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush: $35)

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Even though I have my phenomenal purple lipstick I created in BITE Beauty’s Lip Lab a couple of weeks ago, I also wanted an everyday, neutral lip gloss to wear (specifically for work) that wasn’t heavy or sticky. Enter Urban Decay’s “Naked” Lip Gloss in “Nooner,” a subtle nude shade that doesn’t wash my complexion out and isn’t tacky feeling. “Nooner” is a combination of a lip gloss and a lip balm, without any gross and unnecessary chemicals- so not only do I get a really great shine with this product- but my lips feel ultra-hydrated and smooth as well. Perfection. (Urban Decay’s “Naked” Nourishing Lip Gloss: $20)

And lastly, while I’m quite content with the shape and thickness of my eyebrows, I would like them to match my very, very red hair just a little more. I picked up a tube of Anastasia Beverly Hills Tinted Brow Gel in “Auburn,” a reddish-brown, to get my brow/hair color  as close as possible. This lightweight gel applies with a mascara wand and stays put all day without flaking or fading. It’s like I’m almost, ALMOST a convincing redhead! (Anastasia Beverly Hills Tinted Brow Gel: $22)

And with that little haul over and done with- I am now officially ready for April showers, May flowers, and whatever is happening right now in March.

xox

GLOSSYBOX: February 2014 Review.

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Ipsy set the bar pretty high for beauty box subscription standards in February. I had loved everything I received in my bag, and didn’t think it could be topped. Even so, I kept an open mind when my GlossyBox eventually arrived. I’d already been made privy to a couple of the samples I’d be receiving a little earlier in the month, but everything else was still very much a mystery. The nail polish, although expected- caught my attention right away, as did the bright packaging of the Anatomicals product- but I wanted to try everything included before I reached a final verdict.

What I Received:

Sumita Beauty Color Intense Pencil in ‘Kala’ (*Full Size!*)

Pureology COLOUR FANATIC Multi-Tasking Hair Beautifier for Color-Treated Hair

Anatomicals Puffy the Eyebag Slayer Wake Up Under Eye Patches (*Full Size!*)

Lauren B Nail Couture in ‘City of Angels’ (*Full Size!*)

Skin&Co. Roma Truffle Therapy Serum Plus

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Product # 1: Sumita Beauty Color Intense Pencil in ‘Kala’ ($15)

The first product I tried from February’s GlossyBox was this black soft pencil liner. When I first pressed it to my lid, the tip broke off completely into my bathroom sink, which I should have taken as some sort of foreshadowing- but I sharpened it to a point and tried it again anyway. While the pencil did apply smoothly- eventually- it stayed in place for all of a couple of hours before my cat-eye was smudged and smeared everywhere. By my lunch hour, I resembled The Winter Soldier from the upcoming “Captain America 2” movie.

Nailed it.

Nailed it.

Would I Purchase?: No. This eyeliner was awful. The pencil tip kept crumbling and the liner itself doesn’t last long at all. $15 for something so poorly made is an insult, and you’re better off buying a less expensive brand that will apply with much more ease and won’t budge for twice as long as this one.

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Product # 2: Pureology COLOUR FANATIC Multi-Tasking Hair Beautifier for Color-Treated Hair ($24)

From personal experience, red hair is one of the hardest colors to maintain. If you aren’t a natural redhead (which I am not,) and don’t use the right products- your color can very quickly fade into an orange-y, coppery disaster. You need special shampoos, conditioners, masks, styling creams/sprays/serums- and a lot of patience to keep red hair looking fabulous- so I am always willing to try products that I receive in subscription services that are designed specifically for color-treated locks. This lightweight, nicely-scented spray was advertised as being able to do a number of beneficial things for my hair: from protecting my color, to taming frizz, to strengthening split ends, to adding moisture and shine, and so on.

I can’t speak for long-term results since I only received enough of this product to last me a few days, but I didn’t notice a dramatic difference in either frizz-control or shine. My hair definitely felt softer, but overall I wasn’t completely blown away with this.

Would I Purchase?: No. While there wasn’t anything particularly bad about this spray, there also wasn’t anything particularly extraordinary about it, either. I’ve achieved better, more noticeable results with the products I currently have in my hair care regimen. I wouldn’t run out to purchase a full size of this anytime soon, if ever.

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Product # 3: Anatomicals Puffy the Eyebag Slayer Wake Up Under Eye Patches ($11.29)

Oh, Anatomicals. How I love your products, your packaging, and your puns. While puffy eyes aren’t a huge concern for me (I’ve always been a little bug-eyed and have long since accepted and embraced it,) I really wanted to try these patches, which feel a little slimy when first removed from the packaging- but effortlessly stuck to and stayed in place on the delicate skin under my eyes without discomfort or irritation. The non-sticky gel the patches are coated with feels cool and tingly, and after 30 minutes- my eye area feel soft, hydrated, and refreshed- and stayed that way long after the patches were removed.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! This is another winner for Anatomicals. While I can’t say I saw drastic results for puffiness (again: forever bug-eyed,) I think these would be an amazing treat for myself after a long day of reading/working/blogging/Tumblr-ing, or for travel during a particularly long flight (or after an even longer night.) These patches are, again- refreshing- and also affordable. I would absolutely buy these.

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Product # 4: Lauren B Nail Couture in ‘City of Angels’ ($18)

Nail polishes are almost always a hit with me when it comes to subscription boxes. I think in all the bottles I’ve received in the past year or so that I’ve been subscribed to services like Ipsy and GlossyBox, I’ve only ever been disappointed with the quality of one or two nail lacquers. This creamy ballerina pink applied evenly and dried quickly- two things I look for in a polish- and I am in love with the color. It’s a bright, pretty, and appropriate for all occasions hue that is beyond perfect for the Spring. It’s also vegan, cruelty-free, and void of any harmful chemicals- which makes this lacquer another winner to add to my ever growing collection.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I would absolutely re-purchase this polish, and probably some of the other polishes in the “Nail Couture” line. I love the color selection, the formula, and the durability of the finish. I haven’t seen any chipping or peeling yet, and I am constantly typing away with my fingertips.

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Product # 5: Skin&Co. Roma Truffle Therapy Serum Plus ($75)

Had I been drinking any kind of liquid when I saw the price of this serum, it would have resulted in the mother of all spit-takes. While I am never against treating yourself or splurging on something from time to time, $75 for 1 fl oz. is absolutely insane to me. Automatically, I was a bit biased- thinking this was one of those over-hyped, overpriced pre-moisturizer “miracle creams” that would either irritate my skin, or wouldn’t do anything at all.

Yeah… I was wrong.

I’ve been using this serum after exfoliating and cleansing my face morning and night, and mother of GOD does it make my skin feel smooth- and so, so soft. The serum itself smells a bit like a dessert that I can’t quite put my finger on, but the fragrance didn’t cause any kind of breakout or bad reaction on my face. Also, a little bit goes a LONG way- so you don’t have to worry about running out within a week as long as you’re using it sparingly.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! It kind of kills me to say it, because I definitely think the price point is unreasonable, but this is sincerely a really great serum that has been giving me phenomenal results that I would probably purchase in the future if I really wanted to do something nice for myself that was on the expensive side.

Three great products I enjoyed, two of which were full-sized, out of five? I’ll take it. February’s GlossyBox was a good one. It may not have topped Ipsy’s bag for the month, but overall I was pleased and discovered some great brands and products I’ll definitely be checking out and considering in the future.