2019 Favorites!!!

Can’t believe it’s the year 2020! Time truly waits for no one and has flown by! This past year, I took a much needed break. I needed to focus on me.

In doing that, I had to really make some repairs to myself. I started taking full advantage of chiropractic care and really communicating with my doctor about how I wanted my healthcare to go. I was unwilling to be unheard as my health largely depended upon ME! It can be scary to not only speak up but also disagree with your doctor about the care that is being received. I had long conquered that fear because in the end, I pay for a service and refused to just go along with care that I didn’t agree with since I would be the one living with the end results.

Some things I refused to go to the doctor for. I was suffering terribly from skin issues. It seemed that no matter what I did, my skin condition worsened. I began to get frustrated as I was not even eating certain things that were known to aggravate my acne. The acne I was experiencing was cystic in nature. I sat in pain for days sometimes. My frustration increased when that wonderful time of the month rolled around, que eye rolls, I was also suffer from hormonal acne. Needless to say, I did heavy reading and research to figure some things out.

My hair was having shedding issues. Now I do have Hashimoto’s disease so the shedding can be a problem from time to time but my shedding became coupled with massive tangling and some breakage. Again, I did research and found what I needed to help.

I didn’t play in makeup much this year, I only wore makeup about 8 times this past entire year. I did make a purchase for some faves that I had run out of…I was a hostess in my big sister’s wedding so, you know how that goes…I HAD to look good! Otherwise, I made sure to focus on healing my skin. I will still share what I bought to replace my long used favorites!

I’m on a weight loss journey so I’ve been avoiding sugar and carbohydrates like my life depended on it, partly because it started to. I had gained weight due to medication and became insulin resistant. That insulin resistance made it incredibly difficult to lose ANY weight!!! When I tell you I cried (and I’m not a crier) but I swear I could have jumped out my window without opening it. I was so done. The only thing i could think of was trying the Keto ‘way of eating’ again. Honestly, Keto is not a diet to me. I’m not indulging in anything that can contribute to insulin resistance or diabetes. If you’re unsure, be sure to do your research. One thing is sure, the SAD diet (standard american diet) has the appropriate acronym. I’m not by any means telling anyone to do keto or low carb, do what works for you but please take care of your health and eat for nourishment! That being said, below I will list all of the faves I have for this past year.

I hope you have a great day, week, month and year! I’m back to go through it all with you! 💪🏾

Favorites of 2019

Health

  1. Doctor’s Best MSM Powder

     

  2. Sports Research Vitamin K + D3 with Coconut Oil

  3. Renew Life Women’s Probiotic 90 Billion CFU

  4. EzyAbsorb Gluten Free Berberine 500mg (blood sugar and cholesterol support)

  5. Best Naturals Betaine HCL 648 mg 250 Capsules

Hair

  1. MegaFood Blood Builder Minis

     

  2. Doctor’s Best MSM Powder

  3. Sports Research Vitamin K + D3 with Coconut Oil

  4. GLISS Hair Repair Conditioner, Ultimate Repair for Heavily Damaged Hair 13.6 ounces

  5. Whole Blends Honey Treasures Repairing Shampoo 22 fl oz

  6. Sulu Aloe Vera Oil

  7. Sulu Cold Pressed Unrefined Avocado Butter

Skin

  1. Sports Research Vitamin K + D3 with Coconut Oil

     

  2. Tumeric Powder (used to make a mask with milk, yogurt and honey)

  3. Shea Moisture African Black Soap Problem Skin Toner

  4. Philosophy the Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash

  5. Tetyana Dark Spot Corrector Brightening Serum [LOVE this stuff!]

Keto/Eating

  1. Surkin Fiber Syrup

     

  2. Isopure Zero Carb Protein Powder

  3. Surkin Gold Brown “sugar”

  4. Nutricost Allulose Sweetener

  5. Magic Spoon Cereal Variety Pack

  6. Premier Protein Caramel (for coffee)

  7. Slim Fast Keto Fat Bombs

Makeup

1.

My FAVORITE Face Primer

I know, I know. It’s been soooo long since I’ve had my tail on here. I’m slowly moving back into blogging so please give me time lol. I thought since I’m making my way back, I’d let you guys in on what I’ve been loving. Now normally, I would do an entire list of favorites but that seems so impersonal sometimes. I dunno. I am WAY past due to review some products I received from Juice Beauty but I’m telling you it was worth the wait.

I generally like to really try products for quite a bit of time before I decide whether I love or hate them. That being said, I’ve been using the Juice Beauty Illuminating Primer and it is the only primer that I not only use but plan to purchase in the future. Now, coming from someone who may keep it a bit too real (so I’ve been told), that says a lot! I am helplessly in LOVE y’all!!!

So let me give y’all the scoop:

This primer feels so luxurious on the skin. It frankly reminds me more of a lotion than a primer. Primers can feel a little too silky, making you feel as if when you apply your foundation, it will slide right off your face. I actually hate primers like that. I also feel these primers give you that “hot” feeling in the summer…which brings me to my next bit of info. This primer is so light that you seriously don’t feel it on your face. If you like to “feel” your primer, this is not for you. I hate a clogged pore and I feel this primer is best for those concerned with not having an oil slick on their faces as well as for being able to maintain a great skincare routine. I am so into skincare right now so this does IT for me. It leaves a subtle glow, likely due to its iridescent, pearl-like color. I am a caramel color and this primer does not make me look ashy. Now, there have been some primer that promise to give you a glow that leave an ashy film on the face depending on the skin tone. With this primer, you get a great amount per bottle and I totally feel it’s worth the price. There are other primers that are super cheap but they just don’t measure up to this primer by Juice Beauty. You can use a liberal amount of this primer without worries. I’ve forgotten to put on moisturizer and I was still okay. There was no difference in the performance of my makeup than when I wear primer. It’s very moisturizing and has nothing but quality ingredients.

Some things to keep in mind are that you won’t get a ridiculous highlight with this primer. While it has a subtle glow, the focus is on great skin not on having a gleaming highlight. Also, this is not a primer with a super thick consistency. It’s made to feel like nothing is on the skin when you apply makeup. It’s made to be moisturizing on the skin so if you forget to wear a moisturizer or need a primer in a rush with not a lot of time for a million products, this will do the trick. The first ingredient is aloe vera. Can’t get better than that! That takes me lastly into this: it’s wonderful if you have sensitive skin! I am apart of the sensitive skin club and let me tell you, I have only been using this product under my makeup and when this bottle is done, I’ll be buying another one. I know I said my previous point was my last but I’d like to add that this is also the only primer where the quality of the bottle matches the contents and price. My bottle cap stays on. Yeah I know you’re thinking it may not be that important but the cap staying on the bottle prevents the pump nozzle from getting broken which in turns saves me headache of trying to get the darn primer out of the bottle. Plus, you’re not cheated on it looking like there’s more than there actually is.

Overall, I love this primer so much because I think all skin types can use it, even sensitive skin and it’s not a strong scent to it. The scent is barely noticeable. The bottle isn’t slippery so it won’t go flying out of your hand…that has happened to me before and you can knock someone out with a flying glass bottle. Would I recommend this primer? By now hopefully you know I certainly would! It’s a phenomenal primer and my fave of all the primers I’ve tried and I’ve tried a ton! So go ahead and get a sample of you still not convinced but let me tell you, I want paid to do this review and even if I were I’d have to tell you if I hated it. I love to spread a good word lol!

#Influenster Review: E.L.F. Cosmetics 

I am an Influenster and this is a sponsored post where I’ve received these products for free in exchange for my honest review. All opinions that are expressed are completely my own. Now on to the review…

When I saw the Eyes Lips Face brand box come on the mail I got super excited since I wanted to revisit some of their products by recommendation of an associate. I hadn’t had any E.L.F products in a few years actually. I have a product that I bought last and I had put it away in makeup storage until this past year. That product I will discuss a little later in this post. Now, let me share what I received in my Vox Box…

Makeup

Mineral Infused Primer

Matte Lip Color

Baked Highlighter & Bronzer 

Skin Care

Hydrating Bubble Mask

Lip Exfoliator

Now let’s talk specifics. So as soon as I looked in the box my eyes were immediately drawn to the Bubble Mask. The name alone is very unique to products already on the market. I’ve never heard of a bubble mask and definitely not one sold in a drug store. 

I immediately opened it and tried it. My first time use results? My skin was actually surprisingly soft and moisturized. I must admit that I didn’t have the highest expectations (even though I was excited to try this) because this product is so inexpensive. I should also note that I tried this on day where I saw over 50 people in a enclosed setting under artificial lighting. I received so many compliments about how my skin glowed! I was extremely happy with the results needless to say. Would I buy this product again? YES! 

While I used my mask I decided it would be a good idea to try the Lip Exfoliator in Mint Maniac. Why not right? Well, I can say that I was expecting a much rougher texture grazing across my lips as I applied it but the mint infused in the exfoliator purposes to make up for “scrubbing” ability. This exfoliator didn’t remove any dead skin from my lips and my lips can get a bit flaky during this time of year. This product did feel moisturizing but that’s about it. Would I buy this product again? Meh, I don’t know. If I can’t find a cheaper alternative then I would buy there plenty of mint infused lip glosses on the market that have glazed and exfoliated my lips at the same time! 

As I’ve tried a couple of products from the skin care line, I would actually venture out and try more. Side note: I have sensitive skin. Next things I tried are all makeup. The first being the Mineral Infused Primer. So I mentioned at the outset that I would share what product I’ve recently pulled out of my makeup stash by E.L.F and it’s the tinted Mineral Infused Primer in Radiant Glow. I love that Primer and the un-tinted Primer is no different. It keeps my makeup from looking greasy/oily and doesn’t break me out. I’ve tried quite a few primers (which is why the tinted one was stashed away) and for the price, this will be a repeat buy. Would I purchase this product? YES! 

The Matte Lip Color was just okay for me. The color and the finish was not properly represented on the box that holds the product. It is described of course as having a matte finish but the finish is actually satin. Now, I’m not opposed to a satin finish however that’s not the finish that I was looking forward to seeing on my lips. That being said, if you’re looking for a long lasting lip color, look further than this product. The color appears more of a fuchsia based red than the dark almost burgundy red on the box. Since there are so many other matte lip colors on the market that are bold, this just misses the mark for me. Would I purchase this? Most likely NO! 

Lastly, I was excited to see what the Bronzer/Highlighter in Bronzed Glow was all about. I’m obsessed with a nude glossy lip paired with a nice glow (not sparkle, GLOW). I can say that I’m again pleasantly surprised! This product (including the bronzer) will be used as a highlighter. The color doesn’take me look made up or like I have a fake tan/sun kissed look. This product is light on the skin and applies without looking chalky. For reference, (in the summer I wear foundation/powder colors equivalent to NC50 and NC45 in the winter) just in case you’re wondering. It’s soft and applies easily. I definitely recommend this product. It compares very well to other drugstore bronzers on the market. Would I buy this product? YES! 
Overall, I am pretty satisfied in my revisiting of Eyes Lips Face products. Check them out for yourself. I wish I had a coupon code but they always run sales on the site, plus the price points are pretty low which is great for beauties on a budget. Check out the pics below and then let me know what YOU think! 

The Style Cake 💋 

Me wearing the highlighter below:

#Fall Lip Favorites 

If you follow me on IG, I posted this picture: 

Immediately I got a ton of comments on the lip color! Specifically, one of my IG friends asked me what color combo I used to achieve this look. So I decided it would be fun to get a list of my favorite lippies for the fall season as well as info on this particular look. I will also try to include the direct link info to find the lippies! Let me know if you have any questions and have fun shopping for vampy colors! 💋 

Later Cupcakes! 

Here is the lip combo that I’m wearing above: ColourPop Trap, Maybelline Berry Bossy (820), and ColourPop Creature

Besides those colors, here is a list of my favorite fall lippies that I’ve worn for this past year, some longer. 

  1. Anastasia Beverly Hills: Heathers and Sad Girl

  2. Maybelline: Smoking Red (795) and Midnight Merlot (790). 

  3. Milani Cosmetics: Flirt and Embrace (sold out). 

  4. Iman Cosmetics: Wild Thing (001). 

  5. The Lip Bar: Sweet Shiraz (discontinued). 

  6. MAC Cosmetics: Riri Woo (sold out) and Sin

  7. Sephora Lip Cream: Always Red (01)

  8. NYX Cosmetics: Copenhagen Soft Matte Lip Cream. 

  9. Colourpop: LAX, Avenue, Rooch and Dalia (discontinued). 

Lip Liners: MAC Cosmetics Currant & Vino

Lunchtime @Influenster Review of the #MarcGlowStick by @MarcBeauty (and #contest)

Hi cupcakes! 

I know how Mondays can be be not the most flattering day of the week to our skin so I thought this review would be right on time! I was sent the Glow Stick, a highlighter by Marc Jacobs Beauty for review but I absolutely would have purchased this product if I hadn’t gotten it as a gift! 

I’m a huge fan of dewy, glowy skin so when I tried this product I was immediately a fan. Honestly, I figured I’d like it because I prefer a cream based highlighter over powder anyways. In my opinion, the powders generally have too much glitter, too powdery or are too extreme in shine leaving the skin looking more made up than a healthy glow. 

This highlighter adds glow, not a glittery streak. You don’t need a lot of this product because a little goes a very long way. Although the price point may be high for some, you won’t need to repurchase for a long time. The color is yellow gold based but has a bit of opalescence to it if that makes sense. I would personally apply this highlight AFTER I’ve applied all other facial products or BEFORE applying foundation for an even more natural glow. The product blends so well so you won’t see streaks nor do you have to worry about it being too thick that it applies too heavy. Lastly, the longevity of this product was fairly good. I pretty much maintained my manufactured (lol) glow throughout the day. I think the highlight looked even more natural as the day progressed. Wanna try it for yourself? Check out Sephora

If you have any questions let me know, let’s chat! New outfit post later but in the meantime…

Later Cupcakes! 💋

    

    

 

I used unedited selfie cell phone pics so you can see in “real life” how the highlighter performs.

   

  

 

[True Upload] Essence Beauty Box: Fab or Fail? (Review)

Like many of the monthly boxes of marketing’s past, I was interested in a new box that hit the scene that promised to give subscribers a taste of hot and poppin items currently and to-come on the market. That being said, when I heard that Essence would be releasing a monthly subscription for those interested in testing out products seemingly catered to ethnic groups of color and curlier hair. That piqued my interest. I signed up for the service. Here I sit 2 months later (well three really) as a canceled subscriber. Why, you may ask? Short and sweet, three reasons:

  1. (Non-unique items) In all of the two boxes that I received, most of what was in those boxes had nothing that was unique or beyond what I had already seen on the market for years. I wasn’t even remotely interested in some of the things that were sent to me. In fact, most of the things that I received I’ve tried to avoid buying for years. Honestly, I felt like I had spent my money to buy things that I promised myself I would’t spend dime on anyway. (Side eye). I guess thats the way the world works huh? One of the only thing out of both boxes that I actually liked was the sample of Smashbox Full Exposure mascara…which brings me to my next point.
  2. (Tiny Sample Sizes) I realize the box was only $15 but you CAN get this very sample (Smashbox) for free right on the website with purchase. That is a temporary offer, however, some have gotten it free with a Sephora purchase as well. See how this point ties into the first? Well, the items are so non-unique that you can literally get them anywhere…and not pay a dime for it. I guess you are getting a deal if you would really buy the travel size at Macy’s for $9. (Insert wide eyed emoji). I mean, even the Black Radiance Lipstick was not full sized and that’s normally not more than 4 bucks! Anyhoo…
  3. (There are “Better” Boxes) So I am not here to bash Essence at all. I don’t want to be fussed at via the internet because I am not supporting a “black owned business” because it is not black owned anyway. (Which is also beside the point). I am not supporting because I feel that there are other boxes that offer much more for a better price. My advice, try it. Everyone is different. One person’s glass may be another person’s diamond, I don’t know. I personally like the Target box better. It was half the price and I got two full sized products that retailed for more than the $15 that I paid for the Essence Beauty Box. The only problem with the Target Beauty Box is that you have to chase the releases every month. It isn’t a subscription. No problem to me because I don’t like to be tied down anyway.

 

Let me know if you’ve tried the box and if you have, what did you think of it? What other boxes have you tried? 

(Pictures to follow…)

   

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Beauty Mondays: 90's Makeup (Fall 2015)

Warning: Long Post and plenty of pictures.

Is it obvious yet that I am ready for fall? Lol. Well, I just love the vampy fall colors in makeup and clothing that go with the season. I hate that winter follows, so that’s the only part I don’t like about Autumn. I was actually wearing makeup in the 90’s so I know first hand what he makeup looked like. There were browns, muted oranges, brick and burnt reds, dark lip liners, thick natural non-uniformed brows, and natural blush colors. I made some recent purchases that I would like to share as well as some oldies that I already had in my arsenal that go with the fall 90’s theme.

First up is nail polish. Essie’s new Leggy Collection has two colors that I swooned over at first sight. “With the Band” is a burnt but cool toned, sort of brick red that looks great against any skin tone and color in my opinion. It is the epitome of the 90’s. The other color by Essie I love is “In the Lobby”. This color is dark, vampy and bold. It boasts the look of a red based plum that reminds me of nail colors worn all the time two decades ago. The formula goes on really smooth and pigmented which I appreciate because even if you’re not professional, you can get that spa treatment look on your nails. Check out the pics below!

With The Band
With The Band

In the Lobby
In the Lobby

Still talking nail polishes, I have three polishes by Julep, two lacquers by Floss Gloss and one more by Revlon that fit right into my faves for the upcoming season. The Julep colors are: Sharna, Lindsay and Coco. All three are lovely and some of my fave colors. Sharna shines as a shabby golden bronze. The Floss Gloss colors are: “Gangsta Boo” (red) and “Blood Suede & Tears” (reddish burnt brown). These colors go on rather thin and can appear streaky if you are not great at polishing nails. Just sayin. The colors are absolutely 90’s and gorg!! THE perfect red! Lastly, Revlon has a color “Velvet Rope” that screams old school. I don’t know why but this color reminds me of Halle Berry circa 1994. These polishes are some some of my oldies but goodies. Check out all the pic below!

Sharna
Sharna

Lindsay
Lindsay

Coco

(left) Gangsta Boo & Blood, Suede and Tears
(left) Gangsta Boo & Blood, Suede and Tears

Velvet Rope
Velvet Rope

Next is makeup! My favorite part! I have some lipsticks, a blush, a bronzing highlighter and a lip cream that I am showcasing. I absolutely can’t wait til Autumn so I can start rocking these beauties. Before I get into color, I actually grabbed MAC’s Fix + spray as I LOVE it so much! I’ve tried other sprays low and higher end and I always go back to my Fix +. It blends my makeup so well and will be another staple this upcoming season. The blush I’m loving for the upcoming season is MAC’s Ambering Rose. The bronzing highlighter in Glistening Sun  (by Maybelline Dream Mousse) has a similar effect. It offers a natural highlight without the intensity and extreme glitters of other highlighters. It totally reminds of a glorious sunset in the container and the glow of one when applied to the face. It’s warm orangey tone and small flacks of shimmer brighter the face naturally as it adds a sheen. The lip cream is obviously by Nyx and the color is London. I think that it is the perfect nude for fall. It’s warm and has a pink and peach undertone that won’t wash out the skin. For lipsticks, I chose all MAC lipsticks (not on purpose) but they all remind me of colors I wore in the 90s. All except two colors are limited edition but you can find dupes for the limited edition colors. Check out the pics below and let me know what beauty products you are planning to use this fall!

 

 

Ambering Rose
Ambering Rose

 

Glistening Sun
Glistening Sun

London

 

Fresh Moroccan
Fresh Moroccan

Smoked Purple
Smoked Purple

Deepest Wish
Deepest Wish

Talk that Talk
Talk that Talk

Fixed On Drama
Fixed On Drama

 

Review: Influenster "I Do" Vox Box

(Disclaimer: I received these products complimentary for testing and review but my very honest and detailed opinions are expressed).

Warning: Long Post…

If you take a peek around my blog, you will see that I am apart of the Influenster network. I had another blog years ago, (before blogs were popular) and I reviewed some things from Influenster. Being that I will be in a wedding next month, I was sent the “I Do” Vox Box for review. I received this box before last weekend but I wanted some time to test the products out so I can be 100% truthful. Not everyone has “money to blow” (in my Lil Wayne voice). That being said, I’ve tried almost all of the products in this box and I must say that I love everything in this box that I’ve tried. This box is great for anyone in an upcoming wedding including any bride-to-be. Check out what I think about the products below the pictures. I absolutely love trying these boxes and sharing my point of view. Tell me if you’ve tried any similar products and if you like them or trashed them!

Sahale Snacks Company makes these cashews, packaged in individual snack sizes. That makes these perfect for on the go snacking, especially if you are aspiring to live a healthy lifestyle. They have seven flavors of these snacks. I received the Pomegranate & Vanilla Cashews to test. I have to say that I was surprised at how good these were. They are guilt free and taste so unique to other flavored nuts on the market. I gave some to my hubby to try and he loved them too!! If you are a busy bride (or a part of the bridal party) or just a healthy eater and are looking for a treat, this is worth a try. I will definitely be purchasing some on my own. The flavor is light without overwhelming the cashews. I ate the whole snack pack lol. I give this product two thumbs up!

At first sight, I thought I was supposed to add this to water. Reading is fundamental lol. More on this product below…

This pain relief “powder” is made by UrgentRx. It has the consistency of finely ground sugar but a tad more powdery. Not too much powder that can cause you to choke. The packaging is very flat and fits in the palm of your hand perfectly for discreet use. You don’t need water, just pour it into your mouth. Because of the already ready-to-dissolve formula, it works a bit faster than traditional asprin. I used it for muscle pain. I recommend this for those times of the month when cramps show up. There is caffeine in this pain reliever, another ingredient commonly used in popular pain medication for women (during that time of the month). I would recommend this however, I would use caution if you have childen in the household. I won’t say this tastes great but it has a lemon lime flavor that is sweet which is what children will be drawn to. By the way, you can taste the medicine. I still give this two thumbs up!

I have horrible issues with dry skin on my hands and hang nails (peeling skin around the nail) so I was all too happy to try the next product. Here my skin looks hydrated. By the way, I have a serious tan this year that I love. Anyway, read below the next picture for more information.

This stuff is amazing!! This is one of my favorite products in the box. I have hang nails and they hurt…badly. This cream not only moisturized my skin but my hang nails were relieved of pain as a result. Even after one hand washing, my hands remained moisturized. It lives up to its claims of relieving chapped skin. A little goes a long way. The cost is $3.99 for 2 ounces and although that may not seem like enough product, you can use this and not have to buy another for about three months (educated guess). The texture is creamy but it has the slight consistency of a typical mattifying gel. This definitely gets two thumbs up!

This foundation is by a brand of foundation that I’ve never tried, Covergirl. It is the Covergirl Outlast Stay Luminous Foundation. It claims to provide luminosity and to be moisturizing to the skin. The color is what I would use in the winter months and since I have a serious tan, this color was a bit too light. I am a NC50 (MAC Cosmetics foundation reference) in the summer. The pictures for some reason show my skin a lot darker so I apologize if my complexion doesn’t look consistent with NC50. I don’t want to confuse anyone who might use these pictures as a reference for foundation color. I tested the product on my arm instead of my face. I do agree that this foundation is moisturizing. The consistency is just right for a medium coverage foundation, not too thick but not runny. The pump allows for very controlled usage and “locks” to prevent mishaps. The foundation goes on smoothly but takes a little work to blend into the skin. I used my fingers. I suggest using a Beauty Blender for use of this foundation for better application. The coverage is light to medium. As far as luminous, I see very small flecks of highlight but I will have to apply this foundation in the winter when my tan has faded to see if I notice luminosity of my skin. This foundation lasted on my arm for about 5 hours on my arm. I would venture to say you could get at least 6 hours of wear out of this foundation. I used no primer or setting powder. The finish is satin. At $11.30 a bottle, it may seem pricey but check your large value chain superstore for a cheaper price. It’s worth a shot. I’m undecided on this product. I will update this post in a few months.

The consistency is not too thick but not thin.

Let me list all the positives: gluten free, kosher, tons of fiber and protein. All reasons why I would definitely purchase this nutrition bar. It honestly tastes too good to be true. It reminds me of a rice crispy treat without the marshmallow (instead some other yummy substance) but covered in chocolate. This was my dessert. Great for those gluten intolerant/with Celiac Disease and those on the go! These are sold at Target. Two thumbs up!

Covergirl Outlast Lipstick in “Phantom Pink”

This lipstick is very moisturizing, almost like a balm. It goes on a little bit patcy but provides bold color. I would have to pair this color with a brown lip liner for personalization. My only gripe: this lipstick seems to slide off the lips. I would say it works for the wedding and pictures but after eating and drinking you’ll definitely be re-applying, maybe two or three times. Since it’s not a matte formula, this is to be expected. The smell will be all so appetizing to hubby-to-be. This lipstick smells like Starburst candy! One and a half thumbs up!

Nanoblur face moisturizer is the only product that I have not tried. I will be updating this post by Friday with my opinion.

Review: Influenster "I Do" Vox Box

(Disclaimer: I received these products complimentary for testing and review but my very honest and detailed opinions are expressed).

Warning: Long Post…

If you take a peek around my blog, you will see that I am apart of the Influenster network. I had another blog years ago, (before blogs were popular) and I reviewed some things from Influenster. Being that I will be in a wedding next month, I was sent the “I Do” Vox Box for review. I received this box before last weekend but I wanted some time to test the products out so I can be 100% truthful. Not everyone has “money to blow” (in my Lil Wayne voice). That being said, I’ve tried almost all of the products in this box and I must say that I love everything in this box that I’ve tried. This box is great for anyone in an upcoming wedding including any bride-to-be. Check out what I think about the products below the pictures. I absolutely love trying these boxes and sharing my point of view. Tell me if you’ve tried any similar products and if you like them or trashed them!

Sahale Snacks Company makes these cashews, packaged in individual snack sizes. That makes these perfect for on the go snacking, especially if you are aspiring to live a healthy lifestyle. They have seven flavors of these snacks. I received the Pomegranate & Vanilla Cashews to test. I have to say that I was surprised at how good these were. They are guilt free and taste so unique to other flavored nuts on the market. I gave some to my hubby to try and he loved them too!! If you are a busy bride (or a part of the bridal party) or just a healthy eater and are looking for a treat, this is worth a try. I will definitely be purchasing some on my own. The flavor is light without overwhelming the cashews. I ate the whole snack pack lol. I give this product two thumbs up!

At first sight, I thought I was supposed to add this to water. Reading is fundamental lol. More on this product below…

This pain relief “powder” is made by UrgentRx. It has the consistency of finely ground sugar but a tad more powdery. Not too much powder that can cause you to choke. The packaging is very flat and fits in the palm of your hand perfectly for discreet use. You don’t need water, just pour it into your mouth. Because of the already ready-to-dissolve formula, it works a bit faster than traditional asprin. I used it for muscle pain. I recommend this for those times of the month when cramps show up. There is caffeine in this pain reliever, another ingredient commonly used in popular pain medication for women (during that time of the month). I would recommend this however, I would use caution if you have childen in the household. I won’t say this tastes great but it has a lemon lime flavor that is sweet which is what children will be drawn to. By the way, you can taste the medicine. I still give this two thumbs up!

I have horrible issues with dry skin on my hands and hang nails (peeling skin around the nail) so I was all too happy to try the next product. Here my skin looks hydrated. By the way, I have a serious tan this year that I love. Anyway, read below the next picture for more information.

This stuff is amazing!! This is one of my favorite products in the box. I have hang nails and they hurt…badly. This cream not only moisturized my skin but my hang nails were relieved of pain as a result. Even after one hand washing, my hands remained moisturized. It lives up to its claims of relieving chapped skin. A little goes a long way. The cost is $3.99 for 2 ounces and although that may not seem like enough product, you can use this and not have to buy another for about three months (educated guess). The texture is creamy but it has the slight consistency of a typical mattifying gel. This definitely gets two thumbs up!

This foundation is by a brand of foundation that I’ve never tried, Covergirl. It is the Covergirl Outlast Stay Luminous Foundation. It claims to provide luminosity and to be moisturizing to the skin. The color is what I would use in the winter months and since I have a serious tan, this color was a bit too light. I am a NC50 (MAC Cosmetics foundation reference) in the summer. The pictures for some reason show my skin a lot darker so I apologize if my complexion doesn’t look consistent with NC50. I don’t want to confuse anyone who might use these pictures as a reference for foundation color. I tested the product on my arm instead of my face. I do agree that this foundation is moisturizing. The consistency is just right for a medium coverage foundation, not too thick but not runny. The pump allows for very controlled usage and “locks” to prevent mishaps. The foundation goes on smoothly but takes a little work to blend into the skin. I used my fingers. I suggest using a Beauty Blender for use of this foundation for better application. The coverage is light to medium. As far as luminous, I see very small flecks of highlight but I will have to apply this foundation in the winter when my tan has faded to see if I notice luminosity of my skin. This foundation lasted on my arm for about 5 hours on my arm. I would venture to say you could get at least 6 hours of wear out of this foundation. I used no primer or setting powder. The finish is satin. At $11.30 a bottle, it may seem pricey but check your large value chain superstore for a cheaper price. It’s worth a shot. I’m undecided on this product. I will update this post in a few months.

The consistency is not too thick but not thin.

Let me list all the positives: gluten free, kosher, tons of fiber and protein. All reasons why I would definitely purchase this nutrition bar. It honestly tastes too good to be true. It reminds me of a rice crispy treat without the marshmallow (instead some other yummy substance) but covered in chocolate. This was my dessert. Great for those gluten intolerant/with Celiac Disease and those on the go! These are sold at Target. Two thumbs up!

Covergirl Outlast Lipstick in “Phantom Pink”

This lipstick is very moisturizing, almost like a balm. It goes on a little bit patcy but provides bold color. I would have to pair this color with a brown lip liner for personalization. My only gripe: this lipstick seems to slide off the lips. I would say it works for the wedding and pictures but after eating and drinking you’ll definitely be re-applying, maybe two or three times. Since it’s not a matte formula, this is to be expected. The smell will be all so appetizing to hubby-to-be. This lipstick smells like Starburst candy! One and a half thumbs up!

Nanoblur face moisturizer is the only product that I have not tried. I will be updating this post by Friday with my opinion.

ColourPop Lippie Stix (BG Review)

For so long, the best lippies were purchased from MAC Cosmetics, NARS, Revlon, Fashion Fair and the list goes on. As of recent, more cosmetic companies have popped up and introduced the world to new flavors sort to speak. I am a lippies junkie so when I hear of a new product that can decorate my lips, I’m excited to try it. My recent fancy is by ColourPop. They have an array of products ranging from shadows/pigments, blush/bronzers and lipsticks. I ran (figuratively) straight to the lipstick section. I purchased four colors and you can see the lip swatches below. The colors applied fairly evenly and were easy to take off. They also smear pretty easily. After about an hour, I had to reapply because I had been eating and drinking. For five bucks, I’m honestly not complaining. Drug store lipstick cost more. Would I purchase again? Absolutely! Side note, the shipping may require some patience IMO. I purchased these on May 9th and received them May 20th. I was hoping they would use USPS Priority Shipping with the 5 bucks that I paid but I digress. Tell me what you think. Have you tried these? I will be waiting on the liquid lipsticks that were released on Thursday..that I also couldn’t get my hands on!

IMG_1599IMG_1584IMG_1605IMG_1565