Thursday, October 4, 2012

Beauty Bar Sample Society Box September 2012


Hello Everyone,

It's time to show you my Beauty Bar Sample Society Box for September.  I've been a subscriber to this box for seven months now and I have really enjoyed every box.  If you are thinking about a monthly subscription to try, I suggest this one.  

So....on with the show.  Here are my products for September.  

Beauty Bar Sample Society Box - September 2012

Stila Cosmetics Smudge Crayon in Smoke– Full size, $22.00
A three-in-one gel-based eye primer, shadow, and liner that glides on with ease and stays in place until you say when.

Stila Cosmetics Smudge Crayon in Smoke
What it does:  This advanced, creamy, multi-pearl formula is infused with emollients for smooth, comfortable application. It provides rich, bold color and more than six hours of continuous wear that won't fade or crease over time.

I did a swatch of this on my arm.  It went only smoothly and has a very intense, rich color.  I’m looking forward to using it.  I haven't used it yet so I can't attest to the six hours of continuous wear.

Diptyque Eau de Toilette Fragrance – Full size, $120

Diptyque Eau de Toilette Fragrance
This is a spicy scent with notes of vanilla and cinnamon.  I read that this scent is good for both men and women.  I would say that’s true…when I first put it on, I thought it was a men’s cologne.  It softened on my skin after a few minutes and then completely disappeared after a few hours. 


Borghese B Gloss in Fiore – Full size $18.50
This gloss contains vitamins A and E with aloe vera and oils of avocado and jojoba to heal damage and protect lips for optimal lusciousness.  

Borghese B Gloss in Fiore
 It glides on smoothly and is a shimmering shade of purple-mauve.  Nice color for autumn.  It says it has all day staying power. I haven’t used it yet, so I can say if it does or not.  I just know that I’ve never found a gloss that lasts all day.

AHAVA Purifying Mud Mask – Full Size $30

AHAVA Purifying Mud Mask
I received a sample of this mask in a previous Birchbox, so this is my second sample. I've used is several times.  It’s a nice, deep cleanser that left my skin soft and smooth.  It has “soothing, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties with the benefits of Horsetail Extract”.  Yikes…what the heck is that???

Cellceuticals Extremely Gentle Skin Cleanser – Full size $35
This cleanser is a mild cleansing agent without Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS).  It has Wheat Amino Acids that provides skin moisture and soothing properties. 

Cellceuticals Extremely Gentle Skin Cleanser
This is, in fact, a gentle skin cleanser.  When I wash my face with my regular face wash, the water in my sink turns very cloudy from all the makeup.  When I washed my face with the Cellceuticals my water remained almost clear.  I didn’t think it took much of my makeup off at all but when I used my toner there was no makeup on the cotton pad.  So, it worked much better than I thought it did.  It didn’t remove the eye makeup as easily.  It did not irritate my skin and didn’t leave it feeling extremely dry.  The scent of it is horrible!  It smells too medicinal.  The consistency of it is clear and very runny so it’s easy for more product to come out then necessary.

Overall, I'm really happy with all the products I received.  Please let me know if you've tried any of these products and what you think about them.  

Hope you are having a fabulous day!

Take care,
Kat

Thursday, September 27, 2012

September 2012 GLOSSYBOX USA

Hello Everyone,

I received my GLOSSYBOX this past Saturday.  As usual, I’m thrilled with the products.


September GLOSSYBOX
GKHAIR Moisturizing Shampoo
Nourished with plant extracts, this superior smoothing shampoo will purify and moisturize the scalp and hair.  Price of full size $20.00 / 10.1oz

GKHAIR Moisturizing Conditioner
This gentle moisturizing conditioner puts the finishing touch on your tresses and leaves your hair smooth, radiant, and revitalized.  Price of full size $20.00 / 10.1oz



GKHAIR Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner
I have never heard of GKHair, so I did a little research.  Its former name is Global Keratin and is rebranding as GKHair.  I was going to use the shampoo and conditioner last night but when I went to read the directions it said “see website for directions”.  I went to their website and these two particular products (Balancing Shampoo and Conditioner) are not listed.  This leads me to believe these are older products that they no longer offer.  Also the name Global Keratin is still on the bottle.

Kryolan for Glossybox Moisture Rich Lipstick in GLOSSY pink
Treat your lips to a creamy, long lasting lipstick enriched with Vitamin E to stimulate and hydrate your lips.  This perfect pop of GLOSSY pink compliments all skin tones and lifestyles.
Price of full size $14.00 / 0.14oz



Kryolan for Glossybox in GLOSSY pink
This is a nice creamy rosey pink lipstick.  I haven’t used it so I can’t comment on the long lasting claim but I did swatch it on the back of my hand and had to work hard to get it off so that’s a good sign.

Misha M Perfect Cover BB Cream SPF42
Hailing from Korea, this Blemish Balm, also known as BB Cream is a multi-tasking powerhouse for the face.  This multi-use cream provides light coverage, soothes, protects, and moisturizes.  Price of full size $29.99 / 1.69oz


Misha M Perfect Cover BB Cream

I was very excited to receive this “sample”…it’s a full size!!!  I’ve been reading articles and watching videos about BB creams and have never purchased any.  I put a bit on the back of my hand and it is so incredibly smooth and creamy.  I have combination to oily skin and I while I think this product will be too oily for my skin, I’m looking forward to trying it.  Maybe I can use it as a weekend foundation when I’m running errands or staying home.

OC8 Professional Mattifying Gel
This innovative mattifying gel lets you get control of your shine all day long.  Clinically tested, this one of a kind gel keeps shine down while helping you achieve a fresh flawless even tone look.  For all skin types.  Price of full size $30.00 / 1.6oz



I am always thrilled to get anything that says it's mattifying.  This is a full size “sample” and costs  $30.   Now knowing anything about the product, I did a little research.  The website says:

For years, photographers and makeup artists have used a secret weapon for shine-free results: OC8® Professional Mattifying Gel.
With OC8’s 8-hour formula featuring ACRYSORB®, micro-particles trap facial oils to reduce shine and redness for up to eight hours. You’ll get beautiful, worry-free results that last all day.
OC8 is clinically proven to reduce shine and improve the appearance of facial foundation. It can be used after your regular facial cleansing and moisturizing routine and before applying makeup.

I’ve been using the OC8 for four days now and I love it.  I use about a pea size amount of the product, dot it all over my face, rub it in with my fingers and let it sink in before applying my foundation.  I apply my makeup around 4:30AM on weekdays and I notice just the smallest bit of shine on my nose around 3:00PM in the afternoon.  I’ve read reviews where some people had to use more than a pea size amount of the product before it worked for them so adjust the amount you use accordingly.  The scent isn’t very pleasant - I think it smells like plastic.   It does disappear after you get it rubbed into the skin.  I am very happy with this product and I will definitely repurchase it after this tube is gone.

Did you receive the September GLOSSYBOX?  What did you think about the products.

I hope you all are having a great day.

Take care,
Kat

Friday, September 21, 2012

Thirteen Questions Tag



I was reading one of my favorite blogs today, and she did a Thirteen Questions Tag post and she tagged everyone with a blog to do a similar post.  I love these, so I thought I would join in the tag. 
1. What's one thing that most people don't know about you?
That I secretly want to be a chef.  I love to cook and I love making people happy with good food.  Unfortunately, I’m too old to go down that career path now.  The second thing would be that I have this blog.  Nobody knows except for my sister, niece and husband.

2. What's your favorite quote?
“Some people, no matter how old they are, never lose their beauty – they merely move it from their faces into their hearts”.  Martin Muxbaum  (see header of my blog page.)

3. What's one food that you can't live without?
Sushi.  I love it.  It’s too expensive for me to eat every day, but I would if I could afford it.

4. What's your song of the week? 
Pontoon by Little Big Town.  This will be my theme song when I retire some day!!!
5. What movies could you watch over and over and still love?
Wild Hogs, Elf, Date Night, Ocean’s 11, Lara Croft:  Tomb Raider (Love it when a female can kick some serious butt)!!!

6. Can you change the oil on a car?
Sadly, I cannot change the oil on a car.  My father was a car mechanic, too.  I can, however, change my own car tire.  Do I get bonus points for that?

7. Favorite kind of sandwich?
Hmmm, this is a difficult one for me to answer because I’m not really a sandwich person.  I would have to say a simple peanut butter (creamy not crunchy) and jelly (strawberry) sandwich.

8. Can you knit or crochet?
I cannot do either.  My Aunt tried to teach me to knit but she was right handed and I am left handed, and it just didn’t work.  Everything she was doing was backwards to me.  I don’t think I would enjoy it anyway.  I’m more of a dig in the dirt and plant things or play sports kind of girl.

9. How many languages can you speak?
English, that’s it.  I can sign language the alphabet…does that count as another language?

10. Be honest: do you ever forget your reusable shopping bags when you go to the grocery store?
All the time!!!

11. Favorite type of pie?
Blueberry and I can make a darn good one!!!

12. What do you wear to bed?
It depends on what time of year it is.  Usually pajama bottoms and a baggy top in the fall/winter time and capri bottoms and a baggy top in the spring/summer.


13. Ever been in love?
Yes, twice.  The first time broke my heart.  The second time I found my soul mate. 

I tag all of you that have a blog.  If you don’t have a blog, please join in the tag by leaving your answers in the comments below!!

Thursday, September 13, 2012

Nail of the week - Zoya 2012 Fall NYFW Diva Collection - Dual


Hello Everyone,

Zoya had a BOGO (Buy one get one free) offer last month and I took full advantage of it. I bought four and received four free. That's my kind of deal.

This week's look is Zoya Dual. According to the website, the color is described as: A medium red-toned purple base with heavy purple and gold iridescent metallic sparkle. The shiny gold sparkle makes this shimmering purple polish extra bright and lively. The color intensity is 5 (1=sheer - 5=Opaque).


I think it's beautiful and I love the gold sparkle although the gold doesn't really show in this picture. Zoya nail polish goes on so smoothly and lasts a long time. This is three coats of Dual and one coat of Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Insta-Dri Anti-Chip Top Coat (love that stuff).

Zoya nail polish is available at www.zoya.com and at your local Ulta stores.

Did any of you take advantage of the Zoya BOGO offer? What colors did you get?

Hope you all are having a beautiful day!

Take care,
Kat

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

the Balm NUDE'tude Eye Shadow Palette

Hello Everyone,

I know this isn’t a new palette but it is new to me.  I never purchased the Urban Decay nude eye shadow pallets because I thought they were very expensive and looked a little too shimmery for me.  I like a little shimmer but not a lot.  I’ve wanted to purchase the Balm Nute’tude pallet for quite a while because I thought it was similar to the Urban Decay Naked pallets without as much shimmer... and was more affordable.  When I saw it on Hautelook for half the price of retail, I went for it! 
I am so impressed with this palette and am really enjoying it. It has great shades from soft to dark which can be used to create many looks. They are very pigmented shadows with a soft texture that apply and blend beautifully. 
Top row from left to right:
Sassy is a frosty white; Stubborn is peachy-pink; Selfish is a beautiful, shimmery taupe; Sophisticated is a shimmery bronze-brown; Sexy is a matte burgundy; Serious is a matte black.

Bottom row from left to right:
Snobby is a shimmery yellow. I love this color.  I dab a light layer of this on my eyelid and inner corner; Stand-offish is frosty pinkish color; Sultry is a matte medium tan-brown; Seductive is a gorgeous frosty brown – one of my favorites in the palette; Silly is a glittery red-brown and is my least favorite shadow in the palette; Sleek is a highly pigmented matte dark brown.
I like Stubborn and Stand-offish but they are almost the identical color so I find it odd that both are included in the palette.
My favorite look is Snobby on the lid and inner corner, Stand-offish or Stubborn in the crease and Seductive on the outer V.
Included with the palette is a double ended brush that’s not very good quality and I probably won’t ever use it.
I highly recommend this palette.  It’s retails for $36.00 but I bought it on Hautelook for $18.00.  If you want the palette and don’t want to pay full price, keep an eye on Hautelook (http://www.hautelook.com/) because they have a sale on The Balm products about every six months.
I hope you are having a beautiful day.
Take care,
Kat

Tarte Cosmetics - Call of the Wild Palette

When I saw this Tarte Call of the Wild eye shadow pallet on QVC, I didn’t hesitate to buy it.  I have the Tarte neutralEYES Eye Shadow Palette Volume II ( Tarte neutralEYES Eye Shadow Palette Volume II Review ) and I love it so I wanted a second Tarte palette for my collection.  All eye shadows are formulated without mineral oil, parabens, phthalates, phthalates and sodium lauryl sulfate. 

This pallet is a collectors, limited edition eye shadow pallet, featuring 8 full size shadows. 


They are encased in a spotted animal print patent leather-like packaging and includes a nice sized mirror.  

Colors from left to right: Jungle,(medium brown w/gold shimmer) Meow (gold/copper shimmer), Call (peach matte), Instinct (off white shimmer – lots of shimmer), Wild (Deep red-brown shimmer), Lynx (cool greyish beige matte), Primal (grey shimmer), Roar (blue/grey shimmer).








I think these colors are beautiful and would look nice on any skin tone.  As with all Tarte eye shadows, they are soft and velvety smooth and have good staying power.  My only complaints would be that the three colors on the left, Meow, Jungle and especially Call, aren't very pigmented.  I had to pick up a lot of shadow on my finger to get the colors to show on my skin for this swatch.  My other complaint would be that this kit did not come with a double ended brush like Tarte’s other palettes.  I really like their brushes!!  Overall though, I like the palette and think it would be a great addition to any collection.  I purchased mine at QVC for $36.00.  It is also available at Ulta.
Do you have the Call of the Wild palette?  What are your thought about it?
I hope you are having a wonderful day.
Take care,
Kat

Thursday, August 30, 2012

GLOSSYBOX US August 2012

Hi Everyone,

I received my August Glossybox on Saturday and wanted you to see what I received.  As always, I'm really excited to try all these products. 



1.  Biolage ExquisiteOil Replenishing Treatment
  • This treatment is a versatile serum infused with a Moringa Oil Blend.  This ultimate potion gives instant shine and weightless replenishment to all hair types. 

2.  Ellis Faas Ellis Lips


  • The lightweight and long-lasting lip products come in three fabulous textures; creamy lips for a matte finish, milky lips for a gloss finish and glazed lips for a touch of color.  They are paraben-free, loaded with vitamin E and blend into the lips leaving them soft and conditioned.  I couldn't tell what color this is from the box...it's either LIOS or LIO5.
This color is very dark for me and I would have to sheer it out to wear it.  I swatched this on the inside of my arm and I did have to work and getting it off, so the long-lasting part might be true.  I'll see how long it lasts on my lips!!

3.  Illamasqua Nail Varnish

  • Award-winning, extremely hardwearing and chip-resistant, there's an Illamasqua Nail Varnish for every shade of humanity.  Apply two coats for extra intensity.  This is in the color Taint.  I am really excited to try this.

4.  Ole Henriksen Truth Serum

  • This high powered vitamin C complex helps smooth out lines and wrinkles, fights environmental aggressors and keeps your skin moisturized, nourished and protected.  Apply mornings and evenings.  There was also a coupon included.


5.  Touch in Sol Feel like Honey Moon Skin Base

  • Apply this fantastic primer after your skincare routine and before your makeup.  It's honey texture firms and revitalizes the skin and allaows for a better makeup application.
So, there you have it.  The items from my August 2012 GLOSSYBOX.  I'm looking forward to trying all of them.

Have you tried any of these products?  What was your opinion of them?

I hope you're having a beautiful day!

Take care,
Kat

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

Nail of the week - Maybelline Fall 2012 Nail Collection Boho Gold

I was at my neighborhood Walgreens on Saturday and walked by the Maybelline Fall 2012 Fashion Week Nail Collection display.  The colors were beautiful and I purchased two of them:  Boho Gold and Metal Icon.  Both are limited edition and retail around $4.00 (at Walgreens).

Metal Icon

Boho Gold
Boho Gold is a gold/green duochrome but only the gold shows up on the nails.  From what I’ve read online it is a dupe for the Chanel Peridot nail polish.  I can’t verify that because I don’t own the Chanel Peridot. 
This nail polish goes on very, very sheer and while you could get away with two coats, I recommend three to get the best color.  I have on three coats and a top coat.
Three coats and a top coat
I think Boho Gold is a nice polish to add to your collection but you might want to buy it soon because it’s a limited edition.
Have you purchased any of the Maybelline Fall 2012 Nail Collection? 
Hope you are having a great day.
Take care,
Kat

Monday, August 27, 2012

Beauty Bar Sample Society August 2012

I'm so sorry that I am late in getting this post up.  I honestly do have a long list of reviews to put up on this site, but I just can't seem to find the time to do it. 

That being said, here is the August Beauty Bar Sample Society Box.

Phyto - Phytonectar Treatment Oil

Deborah Lippmann Nail Lacquer - Private Dancer

Jane Iredale - Longest Lash Mascara

Elemental Herbology Skin Care - Facial Glow Radiance Peel

Arcona - Cranberry Toner

Malin+Goetz Vitamin E Face Moisturizer

The first thing that caught my eye was the Deborah Lippman Nail Lacquer.  Love the color!  It's a mirrored chrome purple color that is absolutely gorgeous.  I immediately put it on my nails.  It wore well, just starting to chip after seven days.  I was thrilled about that.  Plus, I got numerous comments on how pretty the color was.  This is my first Deborah Lippman Nail Lacquer.  As you know, I'm a loyal Zoya nail polish fan but I might have to splurge a bit and buy another polish by Deborah Lippman.  They are a bit expensive - $18.00 vs $8.00 with Zoya.  (Please excuse my dry hands and bad cuticles - I didn't have time to fix them before I painted my nails).


The second item I tried was the Elemental Herbology Skin Care Facial Glow Radiance Peel. This is a skin-correcting facial peel that protects, brightens, smooths and tones the skin.   I love face peels and masks so I was excited to try this.  This product has a fresh citrus scent and is smooth and creamy with a bit larger than usual granules in it.  I left the product on for four minutes as directed, and washed it off with a warm wet cloth.  It left my face incredibly soft, with a subtle glow.  I don't think I've used it enough to see a difference in my pores but I have my fingers crossed.  I really enjoyed this product and will be purchasing a full size.

I used the Phytonectar Treatment Oil yesterday when I washed my hair.  I was confused by the directions - it says 'apply before washing'.  I didn't know if I needed to applied it to wet hair or dry hair so I looked it up online.  You apply it to dry hair and leave on for 15 minutes.  Then wash and condition hair as usual.  The directions recommend using once a week.  I really like Phyto hair products and this treatment oil was nice.  I did notice a difference when combing out my wet hair.  I didn't have as many tangles and my hair is very soft and smooth.  I don't think it would purchase this product but I am enjoying the sample.

Next up is the Jane Iredale Longest Lash Mascara in Icy Black.  I have not used this yet but am looking forward to.  I'm always looking for a great mascara.  I'll let you know what I think.

Lastly, the Arcona Cranberry Toner.  I have never heard of this brand or toner before so I am excited to try it.  The description says "this three-in-one cranberry milk toner cleanses, tones and hydrates, infusing skin with protective antioxidants to leave it glowing and refreshed. Removes dirt, oil and makeup".  It's got five stars on www.skinstore.com so I'm looking forward to trying it. 

So that is it my friends.  That is my August Beauty Bar Sample Society box.  I hope you enjoyed reading about the products and if you have any questions about any of them, please ask. 

I hope you all are having a beautiful day!!

Take care,
Kat

Sunday, July 8, 2012

Beauty Bar Sample Society July 2012


Hello Everyone,
I received my Beauty Bar Sample Society July 2012 box on Thursday.  I really enjoy getting the Sample Society box as I almost always enjoy the products they send.  I am just as happy with this month’s box.


Borghese Tono Body Cream - Borghese is an Italian brand and I’ve used other products of this brand.  The Tono Body Cream ingredients include:  Fennel, Witch Hazel, Matricaria, Horse Chestnut and Ivy Extracts and Rosemary and Lavender Extracts.  The description on the website says “treat the senses to aromatherapy”.  I think this body cream smells like plastic.  I don’t even get the slightest hint of lavender.  I do like how smooth is makes my skin.  I’ve had it on all day and my skin is still soft and smooth.

Jouer Luminizing Moisture Tint in Pearl – I received a sample of this product in a Birchbox several months ago.  It was a very tiny sample and this is a much larger sample size.  I love, love, love Jouer Luminizing Moisture Tint.  It is SPF 20, oil free, hypoallergenic, fragrance free, water resistant is buildable for a more full coverage.  I have oily skin and this is the only moisture tint that does not make my face look like an oil slick.  I have a full size of this in the color Golden.  It does have some shimmer in it so I top it off with a light matte powder.  I wear it every weekend when I am running errands or just hanging around the house.  LOVE IT!!


Jouer Luminizing Moisture Tint in Pearl

Sisley Hydra-Global Hydration Intense Anti-Age – I’ve never heard of this brand before.  I did a little research on it and it is from Paris.  The website says the following:

“Specially developed to provide an all-round solution to the problem of skin dehydration — whether occasional or chronic - Hydra-Global helps reactivate the hydration mechanisms deep-down in the skin, by encouraging the circulation of water as well as its retention.”

I’m looking forward to using it, but I will not be buying it even if I love it.  The full size product costs $250.00 for 1.4 fl. oz.  Sigh….

vbeauté Eye Never Nourishing Repair Eye Créme – This is another brand I’ve never heard of.  The website says:

“VBeaute Eye Never is an age-defining, line concealing eye cream that immediately smoothes and silkens the delicate skin around the eyes, minimizing the appearance of puffiness, lines and wrinkles. Formulated with the brand's powerful age-defying complexes, this eye cream boosts collagen production while protecting against free radical damage. At the same time, it helps increase moisture and relax muscle contractions to help prevent future signs of aging.”

I’m looking forward to trying this.  I don’t think there is much of the product in my sample though, when I tried to squeeze some onto my finger, the little tube seemed mostly full of air.  That’s disappointing.

Vincent Longo Duo Lip Pencil in Sangria and White Glimmer – This is a brand from Italy.  The Sangria color is a deep wine color and the White Glimmer is exactly that….white.  I’m not sure what I’m going to do with a white lip liner but the Sangria liner will be nice in the fall and winter.


Vincent Longo Duo Lip Pencil - Sangria / White Glimmer

Overall, I’m thrilled with this month’s box.  I love being introduced to brands I’ve never heard of or tried before and except for the Eye Never Nourishing Repair Eye Cream, the sample sizes are very nice.


Stay tuned for product review’s J.

Take care,
Kat

Sunday, June 24, 2012

Glossybox USA – May 2012 Products & Reviews

Hello Everyone,
I am so sorry I’ve been away from my blog for so long.  Spring and summer is a very busy time for me, but I promise to be more dedicated to my blog from now on. 

GLOSSYBOX finally launched in the USA and I received the May GLOSSYBOX (USA).  It is the largest of the subscription services that I know of, serving 15 countries worldwide.  I was impressed immediately after removing the mailing box.  It comes beautifully packaged and I can reuse this box for many different things, including storage or even as a gift box.
Beautiful pink box

I opened the pink box and found five large (some full) sized samples and one makeup brush.

1. Amore Pacific – Moisture Bound Refreshing Hydra-Gel
Amore Pacific Moisture Bound Refreshing Hydra-Gel is a hydrating gel moisturizer that leaves your skin feeling bright and refreshed.  Notice your complexion visibly improve, giving you confidence and a natural glow.
2.  Burberry Beauty – Lip Mist Natural Lip Sheer Lipstick in Copper No. 202
A creamy lipstick that offers a hint of natural, sheer color leaving your lips moist and dewy.
3.  Marvis Whitening toothpaste. (full size)
Make the most of your splendid smile with a whitening toothpaste dripping in cool mint freshness, all while protecting against decay, tartar, and plaque.
4.  Phyto – Phytojoba Intense Hydrating Mask for Dry Hair
Indulge in luxury and aroma with a conditioning treatment that moisturizes and detangles strands without weighing hair down.  Nourish, revive and delight.
5.  Zoya – Summer 2012 Beach and Surf Collection in Zuza (full size)
Dive into the creamy shades and shimmering sea foils of the Zoya Beach & Surf Collection.  Allow your nails to go on vacation every day.
Extra:  GLOSSYBOX Blush Brush crafted from the finest goat’s hair – an essential for any world beauty jetsetter.


I was really excited about all the products that were in the box and impressed with the sizes.

The first thing I tried was the Zoya polish.  As you know, I love Zoya nail polish.  The color is not my favorite and didn’t look good on my skin tone, but that doesn’t take away from the quality, wear, and durability of the polish.  I did buy other colors in the Beach and Surf Collection and I highly recommend Zoya polish.

Zoya in Zuza

The Amore Pacific Moisture Bound Refreshing Hydra-Gel is not really a gel, or what I think of as a gel product.  It has a light, creamy consistency and is a seafoam green color.  It blends into the skin nicely and makes the skin feel soft and smooth.  I used it in the morning under my makeup (before primer) and my skin got very oily early in the morning, so I started using it at night.  Some people think the scent is too strong, but I didn’t mind the scent.  It smells a bit like menthol.  It’s nice, but I would not purchase it – especially since it costs $100 for 1.7 oz.  It is from Korea.

The next thing I tried was the Phyto Phytojoba Intense Hydrating Mask for Dry Hair.  This is a wonderful product and I love it.  My hair didn’t have any tangles as I was combing it out and after drying my hair was soft, smooth and without any frizzy ends.  The scent is very nice.  The directions say to use a quarter size amount but since I have thick hair I used more.  I will be buying this product when I have used up the sample.  Full size is 6.7oz and costs $38.00.
I was thrilled with the Burberry Beauty Lip Mist Natural Lip Sheer Lipstick.  I thought the sample size was a nice amount of product.  It was in the most gorgeous packaging with the Burberry print on the exterior packing and imprinted on the lipstick itself.  It is adorable.  I think it’s a really nice lipstick, very smooth and creamy on the lips.  I used it with a Estee Lauder lip pencil and thought it looked beautiful.  This is another product I was purchase when the sample size is gone.  It’s a bit expensive, but I will ask for it as a birthday gift.  Full size is $30 for .12oz.

Burberry Beauty – Lip Mist Natural Lip Sheer Lipstick in Copper No. 202

The Marvis Whitening toothpaste was…..toothpaste.  Not much to get excited over but the mint flavor was nice.  I won’t buy this – a full size is $7.50 for 1.230z.  That’s a bit expensive for toothpaste.
Finally, the GLOSSYBOX Blush Brush was nothing really special.  I don’t think it works well as a blush brush but I guess it could be used to dust powder over your face.  It isn’t very soft either. 

All in all, I was very happy with the May GLOSSYBOX and can’t wait for my June box.  I have high expectations for the June box so I hope I am not disappointed.
I did cancel my subscription to MyGlam.  It just wasn’t worth it for me.  The first two months were great, but I have been disappointed ever since.  I’m going to look for something else to subscribe to in it’s place.

If you received a May GLOSSYBOX, let me know what you thought.

Stay tuned, I have a lot of product reviews coming soon!!

Take care,
Kat

Sunday, March 18, 2012

Zoya Nail of the Day in Heidi

Hello :)

I hope everyone had a great St. Patrick's Day! 

I took advantage of the last Zoya promotion code and got six nail polishes (buy 3 get 3 free).  I wanted a pretty coral color and bought two different shades of coral.  Here is the first one, called Heidi.

This is two coats of Zoya Heidi with Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Anti-Chip Top Coat.

I think it's a bit too orange, but I still like it.  What do you think?

Did any of you take advantage of the Zoya promotion?  What colors did you get?

Take care,
Kat