February 2016 ipsy glam bag

Hello Everyone! I got my very first ipsy bag this month and I was so excited! It was my Christmas gift from my brother and future sis so it was really sweet of them! 

How does ipsy work?
First you will create your beauty profile by taking a quiz so they know what types of products you like or want to try and how comfortable you are with trying new things. For only $10 a month you will get a personalized bag with 5 products. It could be makeup, skincare, perfume and more. Then you get to review the product and earn points which you can use for rewards. 

So here was February's Glam Bag! 

theBalm Cosmetics - MR. WRITE (NOW) eyeliner pencil in Jac.

I was very excited to try something from theBalm Cosmetics. I would have preferred an eyeshadow but I'm not complaining. The eyeliner glides on and when I rub it it doesn't seem to budge. It's a really nice bronze shade so it's perfect for when I don't want something as intense as black and as my liner under my eyes for a sultry bronze look. I got the full size product which is 0.01 oz. and it is $17.

treStique - blush stick in Bora Bora Coral.

I am a powder blush kind of girl but I was really open to trying a stick blush. The color is pretty and works with my skin tone. It glides on the skin and blends pretty well. I'm still getting used to it but I like it so far. The sample size I got was 0.04 oz. I couldn't find how big the full size is but it's $34.

Perfectly Posh - BFF Best Face Forever Exfoliating Daily Face Wash. 

This was honestly one of the best things I got in the bag. The natural microbeads do an amazing job exfoliating my face. It leaves my skin super soft! The peppermint and grapefruit smells really good! I definitely plan on trying more from this brand! The full size is 4 fl. oz. and it costs $21. 

Luxie Beauty - Small Tapered Blending Eye Brush 231.

I was extremely excited to see I was getting a brush in my first bag. This was what I was looking forward to the most and I wasn't disappointed. It is beautiful with it's pink handle and rose gold ferrule. It has synthetic bristles and is coated in a revolutionary antibacterial solution. It does a wonderful job blending my shadows. It is my new go to blending brush. The brush is $12

Naked Cosmetics - Mica Pigment in Sierra Nevada #02.

The only pigment I had before I got this was something from Icing that I never use so I am not usually into using pigments I definitely prefer regular eyeshadow. I think what I don't like is the fact that it is loose and I am clumsy so it's not a good combination but this color is really pretty. It can be used for the eyes, face, lips, nails and body. It's perfect for the inner corner and I think it would be a really beautiful highlight. I've only used it once but it looked really pretty on my eyes. The size I got was 0.05 oz. I looked on their website and couldn't find a size so I don't know if this is full size but it is $14.99.

So far I really love ipsy. The other day I got an email with a sneak peak and it included a Color Pop eyeshadow so fingers crossed I get it! If you want to join ipsy you can use my referral link. If you already get ipsy Glam Bag's tell me what you got!

OZ Naturals Super Youth Eye Gel Review

Hello Everyone! I hope you all enjoyed my last review. I have another review for you. It is an eye gel from OZ Naturals. OZ Naturals is another new brand to the blog so I will tell you a bit about them.

 About the Brand
Co-Founder and Certified Esthetician, Angela Irish launched OZ Naturals as a company that embodies everything she's passionate about -- healthy skin, anti-aging, natural ingredients, and using the latest technology to formulate the highest quality skin care on the market. Angela knows all about the struggle of skin issues and low self-esteem. She also knows that many skin care products claim to do amazing things for our skin but let us down and waste our money. OZ Naturals was founded to create healthy, premium skin care products to help those who weren't naturally born with perfect skin and to obtain more perfect skin. OZ Naturals is a top seller on Amazon.


 About the Product
It is considered to be the most effective anti-aging eye gel treatment available. It was designed to treat every major eye concern and is considered best for dark circles, puffiness, and wrinkles. It is safe for all skin types and it is non-comedogenic. It doesn't contain parabens, sulfates or alcohol. This eye gel is 100% natural and 75% organic. It is specifically formulated for the delicate skin around your eyes. On the box it says it can even be used as an all over face treatment. It is safe to use morning and night. It can be used under makeup.

Review

• Their goal is to make skincare that is affordable so cheaper packaging is one thing that will ensure that. It is a plastic container with a really nice pump. I think compared to Valentia this packaging would be best if you are travelling you wouldn't have to worry about it breaking if you drop it. It is also small enough you could take it in a carry on. One thing I don't care for is it's hard to tell how much product you have.
• I love hyaluronic acid and what it does for my skin, however I don't care for the way it smells. It's not completely unpleasant and once it's on you can't smell anything.
• It is a very light gel. Whatever product is leftover doesn't feel sticky on my fingers and it leaves my skin feeling really nice.
• A little goes a long way with this product. Just dab around eyes, forehead, and cheek area. It can be used as an all over face treatment. You can use it morning and night. It also works under makeup.
• Being 22 I don't have dark circles, puffiness or wrinkles yet but like every other woman out there I don't want them so I will use eye products to prevent them. I will say it's kind of weird like I can feel it in my skin if that makes any sense but it doesn't irritate my eyes at all.
• For $19.95 you get 0.5 fl. oz. I feel like they could give a bit more product for that price. Now with eye products you don't need much and I don't use it every day so it will last me a while. You are also paying for natural ingredients.
• You can get it on Amazon or their website.   

If you have any questions about the product please leave a comment. If there is anything you want me to review be sure to ask!


*I received this product complimentary from the brand to review all opinions are my own. 

VALENTIA Review: True Glow Eye Cream & Ultra Plumping Hydration Mask + DISCOUNT CODE

Hello Everyone!
I have so many reviews I am working on right now. Two thanks to Brandbacker and a couple of things I either picked up or got for Christmas. So let's get started! This is a new brand to the blog so first I will tell you a little bit about it. I know I like to learn about a brand before making a purchase. *Discount code at the very bottom*


ABOUT THE BRAND
Valentia is named after the Roman Goddess of healing Valentia. She used berries, herbs, barks and other natural ingredients to heal the citizens of Umbria. Like their namesake, Valentia Skin Care products are formulated with natural and organic cosmetic ingredients that can help repair and protect the skin. They performed extensive research to determine what skin care customers find most important. There was an overwhelming demand for skin care that was natural, free of toxins, and paraben free. Natural ingredients with an organic base are the most effective at repairing damage from the sun or wind, and preventing the signs of aging like wrinkles and dark spots. http://www.valentia.com/



TRUE GLOW EYE CREAM

About The Product

It is a luxurious antioxidant rich eye cream that helps lock in moisture, repair and tighten skin for a youthful looking glow around the eye area.

Some Ingredients

 - Astaxanthin: A powerful antioxidant that increases moisture levels, smooths fine line and wrinkles, and restores elasticity to the skin.

- Resistem: Natural Plant Stem Cells repair and protect the skin from harsh environmental pollutants and stress related aging.

- Vitamin C: Leaves the skin smooth and visibly brighter for a well-rested and bright eyed look.

- Organic Rosehip Oil: Provides intense hydration to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

- Arnica: A key anti-inflammatory agent to the restorative process that works to diminish the appearance of dark circles.

First impressions

• I really like the packaging of the box and bottle. I like the gold trim I think it adds a touch of elegance to it. I really like that the product comes in a glass bottle and I am able to see how much product I have. The pump is really nice. I would say it's a decent sized bottle, with eye cream a little goes a long way.
• This product has a really nice scent. It's hard to describe since there are so many different things in it. My dad and I both agreed it kind of has a citrusy scent. 
• It's a nice light eye cream. I only need about half a pump and that's enough for both eyes. The directions say to apply it every morning and night after cleansing and to apply it by gently patting it on.
• As I have said before on the blog I am 22 so I don't have any wrinkles yet, but I do like to use products that can help prevent it. I will admit I am not always gentle when it comes to the eye area. I definitely like the way it feels on my skin. The days I don't get very good sleep I make sure I use it.
• It is $25 for 1.18 fl. oz. it does come in a glass bottle. You are also paying for good quality ingredients. When I use it it's only once a day with half a pump of product so I won't run out any time soon.
• You can buy the eye cream on their website or on Amazon.

ULTRA PLUMPING HYDRATION MASK

About The product

It is a blend of amino acids and hyaluronic acid that work together to flood the skin with moisture providing intense hydration and nourishment.

Some Ingredients

 - Silk Protein Amino Acid Blend:These natural miracles increase moisture content and help in the production of collagen and elastin which decreases the appearance of visible lines.
- Botanical Hyaluronic Acid:Penetrates deep into the skin to secure moisture and plump skin from within.
- Organic Sea Buckthorn Oil:An anti-aging wonder berry that results in fewer fine lines, diminished sun spots, more even skin tone, and firmer more supple skin.
- Japanese Green Tea:Contains catechins that provide anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and anti-irritant effects to the skin.
- Aloe Vera:This botanical moisturizers skin and fight aging by improving skin firmness.

First Impressions

• It obviously has the same pretty gold edges on the packaging. I will say the plastic container is kind of a disappointment after the eye cream's glass container.
• It doesn't smell exactly like the eye cream but it's very similar. I just wouldn't say it has a citrusy scent to it. When I have the mask on it doesn't bother me at all.
• It has a very smooth creamy gel like texture. I've never had a mask like it before. I'm not sure if it's because of the aloe vera or the hyaluronic acid. It feels really refreshing on the skin.
• Apply a thin layer to the skin and leave on for 15-20 minutes. You will feel a slight tingle. Use a damp cloth and warm water to remove.
• It really feels nice on the skin. Once I take it off my skin feels really nice and soft. It's the kind of mask that is gentle enough you can use it as often as you need it. I use it maybe every other day or two. I constantly forget it's a plumping hydration mask and not a mask for acne. So far I think it definitely helps with skin radiance.
• It is $25 for 4 fl. oz. so that is a decent amount of product. I know I will have this product for a while. 
• You can buy the hydration mask on their website or on Amazon.

I hope everyone enjoyed this review! Valentia was nice enough to give everyone a 20% discount on any of their products. The code activates the 17th and will expire a month after. Here is the code   YZ4OOIFU



* I recieved these products complimentary from the brand to test and review for my honest opinion.

Glamulet DIY Valentine's Day Charms - DISCOUNT CODE!

Hello everyone! I wanted to share something really special with all of you. Valentine's Day is coming up so that means everyone will be looking for a special gift so why not create one? With Glamulet you can and it is super easy! Right now they are having a special DIY contest. The people that create the top 20 designs will win their charm! 

How does it work?
First you need to register.
After you have registered you will get to select the charm you want. There are five charms to choose from.You can design it here.
Then you will go to this page to share your design. 
To get votes you click the like button and you will have to share the link each time. 
I think this would make a nice gift because it is a personalized piece of jewellery. It's the perfect gift for your mother, sister, aunt, girlfriend, wife, or friend. 

This is my design. I designed it for my mom. 

DISCOUNT CODE
Glamulet was kind enough to give everyone a 15% off discount
BB-VD15

Who will you design a charm for? 
 


*This post is sponsored by BrandBacker

2015 Jingle VoxBox Influenster

Hey everyone! I was so excited to get the Jingle VoxBox from Influenster. It had a lot of things that I really liked in it. Here's what I got:

• Hallmark Itty Bitty (Spiderman) 
• Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream
• Pure Ice nail polish (deja vu)
• NYC City Proof 24HR waterproof eyeliner
• KISS lashes (posh) and lash adhesive
• Biscoff cookies
• And a coupon for a free bag of Ore-Ida tater tots

The Itty Bitty is adorable. There are so many to choose from. They have Disney, Disney Princesses, Star Wars Etc. They make a perfect gift for little ones and they can be collected. My older brother even liked it! Prices start at $6.95.

I wasn't sure about the Cetaphil when I got the box. I have a HUGE tub of it that I don't always use and when I use it it was only for my arms. I have combination oily skin so I didn't want to use something that wasn't meant for my skin. Then I started to use it and fell in love. It's the perfect winter moisturizer for me. It's not greasy and it leaves my skin feeling really soft. Now I am really happy I have that giant tub of it so I can refill my travel size container. Depending on the size $8.99 - $15.99.

I recently became a fan of the Pure Ice nail polishes. They don't cost a lot of money and they have really nice colors to choose from. I'm not a huge fan of the color I got but I did get it for free so I can't complain. $1.97 only at Walmart.

I have always bought NYC eyeliners because they are very cheap. some of the ones I have bought haven't been very good quality but this one is very nice. It's perfect for tightlining.  $3.99

I was really excited to get some falsies in my box. I am becoming a fan of fake lashes and I think these will be perfect for a special occasion. I will probably use these for Halloween. $3.99

I also got lash adhesive in my box which was really nice. It even has aloe in it which is really cool! $3.99

I've had these on planes before and they are SOOOO yummy! I got three packs in my box and I enjoyed all of them. I need to go to Walmart to get some more. I enjoy mine with some hot cocoa. $2.99

Finally I got a coupon for a free bag of Ore-Ida tater tots. My family loves tater tots so it was nice to get a free bag. They want me to share a recipe but I just add salt and stick them in the oven until they are nice and crispy. $3.99

If you want to join Influenster here is my referral code

*I recieved all of these products complimentary to try.
 

Exuviance SkinRise Bionic Tonic Review

Hey everyone! I hope you all had a Merry Christmas and a happy new year! 2015 was a crazy year for me. There were some really amazing moments and some not so great ones. I am really looking forward to this new year, hopefully I will get to review some really nice products and start sharing tutorials. Today I am reviewing Exuviance SkinRise Bionic Tonic.

ABOUT THE BRAND

Exuviance was created by Drs. Van Scott and Yu who are recognized as leaders in the field of cosmetic dermatology. They created and patented the first Glycolic Peel after discovering its antiaging benefits. They continue developing new patented antiaging ingredients all backed by evidence from scientific and clinical studies. Their formulas are developed to visibly transform skin with their patented innovations.

ABOUT THE PRODUCT
 

The claim for this product is it will give you the radiant complexion you dream about. It comes with 36 single use pads that you can use daily. The SkinRise Bionic Tonic can be used to enhance clarity, smoothness and firmness. It is formulated with a triple blend of Polyhydroxy Acids and a marine botanical. It is a moisturizing, antioxidant and antiaging tonic. The eucalyptus and cucumber refine and stimulate, while the green tea extract helps to protect the skin from the damaging effects of free radicals and harmful environmental factors. It is alcohol free.

• Formulated with (PHAs) Gluconolactone, Glucoheptonolactone and Lactobionic Acid
• Multi-Antioxidant protection from Pro-Vitamins A, C, and E
• Infused with cucumber and Eucalyptus
• Green tea extract tones and protects stressed skin from free radicals

The application is very simple just take one pad and smooth it over your face and neck. Once the product is on your face massage it into your skin. Once you are done massaging apply your moisturizer. 

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THE PRODUCT
 

I think the packaging is really nice. It's made out of a really nice plastic and it has the frosted glass look which I have always loved. I think it looks like a luxury product. It can fit in my hand but it's kind of big so it might not be great for travel if you need to travel light. I have looked on their website and I wasn't able to find a travel size. So that is the one downside to the packaging. I'm 22 so I obviously don't NEED this product, but for people like my mom who have mature skin that can't live without their antiaging products, I'm sure if you put it in a little snack bag and made sure all the air was out it will last the trip without drying out.

I love love love the way it smells! It smells like green tea and cucumber. It's a very relaxing calming scent so it shouldn't bother anyone if you are sensitive to scents.

As stated above the application is very simple. You just need one pad to smooth over your face and neck. Once the product is on your face you will massage it into the skin then apply your normal moisturizer. It has a very nice cooling, refreshing effect on the skin. 

Since I am 22 I don't worry too much about wrinkles yet luckily this product is more than an antiaging product. I haven't used it enough yet to notice if it's helping with clarity but I can tell it's helping with smoothing and firming. When I apply it I can feel my skin tightening so if I had wrinkles it would definitely be helping. This product is for any and all as they say, so it is not for a specific skin type. It works very well with my combination/oily skin.

It is $45 which honestly I would gladly pay that much for this product. If you do the math it would be $1.25 a pad so it's pretty reasonable for what you are getting. I couldn't find anything to hate about this product. I was very pleased and would recommend everyone try it. 

You can find it on their website or you can find it at Ulta.




*I received this product from the brand through Brandbacker to test and review. All opinions are my own.




If you try this product please let me know what you think! 

Blogger Christmas Beauty Brawl: NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil

Well everyone today is the final day of the Beauty Brawl! I have enjoyed being a part of it but I am ready to take a short break from blogging so I can spend time with my family. Don't worry I have some new things to review so make sure you follow my Facebook page so you know when I publish them. For the final day of the Beauty Brawl we are talking about lip color. I chose NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in the color Cruella.

I really like the packaging. The bottom shows what the color is and it's pretty true to the color. It goes on easily and evenly. If you prefer a matte lip this will be perfect for you. The color is a scarlet red and it's really pretty I will probably be rocking it on Christmas day. It is $26 and I think the smaller one I have will last me a while so it is a pretty good value for the price. You can find it at Sephora and Nars.

I really hope you enjoyed the beauty brawl. Make sure you follow our hashtag #bxbeautybrawl. Check out Susannah's pick here. Hopefully we will be able to have another Blogger Brawl sometime soon. Make sure you watch for my next review. 

What was your favorite product we talked about during the Beauty Brawl?