Beauty By Krystal

Sephora Safety Fun Kit 2013

2013-05-21T14:42:00.002-07:00

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It's that time again, snag your Sephora Safety Fun Kit this year, $210.00 value for just $30!

VIB Insiders get special online early access to the season's hottest beauty kit, now through 5/25!

19 minis to keep skin safe - and stunning. Plus, $20 from each kit benefits The Skin Cancer Foundation.

This annual partnership in sun protection is one of Sephora's most popular kits. The collection features 13 SPF essentials, 2 self tanners, a finishing powder and brush, primer, and bronzing powder packed in a reusable cosmetics bag.

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer found in the United States and is also one of the most preventable. Help others become aware of this growing problem while defending yourself against the sun's harmful rays with this comprehensive kit.

While Supplies Last: Sephora's Sun Safety Kit. 19 Bestselling Pieces for $30 - a $210 Value! Packaged in a reusable cosmetic bag.

Sephora's 2013 Sun Safety Kit includes:

0.03 oz bareMinerals® Original Mineral Veil Broad Spectrum SPF 25
bareMinerals® Mini Flawless Application Brush
0.5 oz Boscia® Self-Defense Antioxidant Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30
0.3 oz Clarins UV Plus HP Sunscreen Multi-Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 40
0.25 oz Dr. Brandt® Signature Flexitone® BB Cream SPF 30
1 Towelette Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare™ Alpha Beta® Glow Pad™
0.5 oz Josie Maran Cosmetics Argan Daily Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 40
0.5 oz Lancôme Bienfait Multi-Vital SPF 30 Cream
0.5 oz L'Occitane Immortelle Brightening Hand Care SPF 20
0.16 oz Miracle Skin Transformer Miracle Skin Transformer Face SPF 20
0.5 oz Ole Henriksen Protect the Truth SPF 50+
0.5 oz Origins A Perfect World™ SPF 25 Age-Defense Moisturizer with White Tea
0.5 oz Peter Thomas Roth Clinical Skincare Max Sheer Day Moisture Defense® Lotion SPF 30
0.169 oz Sephora Collection Age Defy Moisture Cream SPF 15 Sunscreen
0.64 oz Ultimate Protection Cream+ Broad Spectrum SPF 50+
0.25 oz Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer SPF 20 with Dermaxyl™ Complex
1.69 oz St. Tropez One Night Only Instant Glow Body Lotion
0.5 oz Tarte Brazilliance Skin Rejuvenating Maracuja Self Tanner
0.14 oz Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Matte Bronzing Powder with Real Cocoa
Cosmetic bag

Review on Youngblood Summer 2013 Collection

2013-05-19T11:17:00.000-07:00

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I have been obsessed with the latest Youngblood Summer collection, due to launch June 1st! This season they are releasing two new lip shades and a growth lash serum (which I'm still trying out, so that official review will be coming out next month or so). Official press release.

Their nourishing lipsticks are fantastic, I own a few so far and love to wear them on days when I'll be out-n-about and will need lots of hydration. This Summer they are releasing a new shade, one very unique to Youngblood's line. Dragon Fruit is a very juicy dragon fruit pink with a bright pop to the lips. I love that this is a stand-out pink, it's perfect for hot weather, sunny days and daytime dates. This luscious pink is never leaning coral or fuchsia, it is purely feminine and pretty. The formula is creamy and smooth to apply, it doesn't dry down or lose its luster. I can get a good 3 hours of rich pigment, with a couple hours of a faded pink stain afterwards. The color will last longer than the hydration factor, so bring a little lip balm for touch ups.

Lip Gels are some of my favorite lip glosses, they feel heavier than my NYC lip glosses but thinner than my MAC Dazzle glosses. Their newest shade is Flaunt, a juicy grapefruit pink with a gorgeous golden shimmer. It is shocking in the tube, but when applied it's a very delicate pink. The golden shimmer and high shine formula give you a really sexy pout. Lip Gels are super hydrating and very comfortable to wear, they never build up in wrinkles or smear onto your face, even through drinking, they stay put. I usually use my Lip Gels as a lock-in product on top of my favorite lipsticks.

Flaunt Lip Gel and Dragon Fruit Lipstick pair so perfectly together, This has been my go-to lip combo for a couple weeks now, and probably for the rest of the Summer.

Youngblood is launching a brand new product this Summer, their Maxim-Eyes Natural Eyelash Restorative Serum, designed to promote healthier, stronger, thicker, longer looking lashes. I am still in the process of trying out the serum, so look forward to an official review in a few weeks, complete with photos documenting the process. The main selling point for this serum, for me anyways, they were able to create an effective yet gentle formula. I have not experienced any sensation at all, no watery eyes and no eye color changing. That's HUGE! I have been interested in lash serums for quite a while now, but it's hard to find one that does not warn you about irritation or color changing side effects. I truly cannot wait to see the results of my lashes in a few weeks, so far I'm loving the product and the application is easy to do and remember to do each morning and night.

If you found this review interesting, check out some of my past Youngblood reviews :)

Spring 2013 Collection

Crushed Mineral Blushes

Pressed Mineral Rice Setting Powder (medium)

Lancome Aqua Bleu

2013-05-16T14:47:00.000-07:00

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Lancome was sweet enough to send me a sample of their latest Summer collection for 2013, Aquatic Summer, which features four blue toned polishes - you can see the official PR images HERE (they are all gorgeous!). Today I have Aqua Bleu, $15, a vibrant lake-water blue, it's a medium tone, not too pastel and not too bright. At first glance I thought I already had this shade in my collection, turns out I don't have anything this bright of a light blue.

Lancome Aqua Bleu, ELF Lavender Mist, Maybelline Pacific Blues, Julep Taylor

This is my first Lancome polish experience, I love the formula, very easy to apply, no bleeding or over applying. The brush is genius, it's wider than most, flat and rounded at the tip. It's easy to get perfect lines without having to cleanup afterwards.

Photos show two coats, base and top coats included

Base Coat: Zoya Anchor Base Coat

Top Coat: Zoya Armor Top Coat

Cuticles: Cuticula Sugared Orange Appeal

Cream: Barielle Nail Strengthener Cream

What's NEW at Sephora?

2013-05-16T14:33:00.000-07:00

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Who doesn't love window shopping for cosmetics? I always want to see the newest additions at Sephora, even though I'll never buy them all like I wish I could ;) This week I spotted some new Sephora nail polish shades in their Color Hit line, each bottle just $5! I'm also intrigued by the Josie Maran Coconut Watercolor Cheek Gelees, they sound great for Summer, especially when not wearing a lot of face makeup, $22 isn't bad for a high end blush with hydrating properties. Also, I saw this Dr. Jart + CC Essence Balm, sounds like something I would actually enjoy, I probably can't get a sample of it in the store though right? It's a solid makeup in a compact, $42 seems steep for face makeup.

Sephora Color Hit Nail Polish $5.00
A nail lacquer with light-reflecting pigments that deliver intense, long-lasting color

Urban Decay Moondust Eyeshadow $20.00
This dazzlingly sparkly shadow innovates with a chic feel and not a single speck of chunky glitter. Microfine bits of iridescent sparkle collide with intense, dreamy hues and lush, 3D metallics for an effect that’s out of this world

Josie Maran Coconut Watercolor Cheek Gelée $22.00
This buildable, blendable blush hybrid provides the natural look of a cream blush with the long-lasting hydrating color of a gel stain. Infused with 50 percent-pure coconut water, it instantly hydrates while nourishing with the powerful benefits of vitamin E-rich argan oil

OCC Lip Tar & Nail Lacquer Set $22.50
Available in six of OCC’s bestselling color assortments, each pack will include a clear carrying bag, a Short Handled Professional Lip Brush, and a collectible trading card featuring pop culture sensations DWV

Ciate Chalkboard Manicure $25.00
Chalk Nails are the ultimate nail statement for spring. From personalized manis to a super easy French manicure, the chalk pens are every girl-on-the go’s nail accessory and handbag essential

Dr. Jart + CC Essence Balm $42.00
This ground-breaking formula combines the benefits of BB cream with additional antiaging treatment for complete care in one product. CC will revive your complexion and de-cake midday makeup while delivering lightweight, serum-based moisture to the skin. It perfectly corrects uneven skintone and pores, and leaves skin lustrous, radiant, and flawless. Suitable for hypersensitive skin, it is infused with sea buckthorn berry extract and hyaluronic acid to hydrate, refresh, and protect.

What's NEW at Forever 21?

2013-05-16T13:11:00.002-07:00

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Yup, I'm at it again, window shopping like a maniac... except there's not too much jumping out at me on Forever 21's website this time. I'm thinking about making an order though, especially for this $2.80 nail art kit, what a steal! I'm also very interested in their version of the hair chalking, at $3.80 each, why not give it a try? Oh, and the maxi dress I inserted at the end looks so fun, I'm thinking I can hem it myself since I'm 5'1'' and I know it'll be dragging, lol :)

Metallic Nail Art Kit $2.80

Temporary Hair Color $3.80

Stress-Free Head Massager $2.80

Lash Extension Duo $4.80

Essential Striped Dolamn Top $13.80

Essential Floral Brocade Skirt $17.80

Ruffled Maxi Dress $19.80

Color Me Monthly - May - Monday

2013-05-15T09:05:00.001-07:00

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This is my 3rd month subscribed to Color Me Monthly, a nail polish subscription where, for $7 per month, you receive their shade of the month - check out their behind the scenes interview on Unpack The Box. Unfortunately I missed out on their first shade for February (I subscribed too late to get it), but you can see March's Adorned HERE and April's Clear Skies Ahead HERE. So far, I'm loving this subscription and will definitely keep up with it.

May's shade is named Monday "until the weekend, polished and professional. longest day ever.", a neutral champagne metallic, very office friendly. This is an easy one-coater, in fact, the swatch photos are just one coat because I really didn't see a reason to add another layer.

Swatches & Review on Honey XO Mineral Makeup

2013-05-13T14:19:00.000-07:00

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Honey XO, formerly I-Candy Couture, is a wide range brand of mineral makeup and hand crafted jewelry. Today I have some swatches and eye looks to share with you, I wanted to show a simple day-to-day look, a slight colorful eye and a more dramatic eye. You can easily sheer out these pigments when applied dry, or be a bit adventurous and bold when applied wet. For each look I show, I'll state which shades I used and if they were applied dry or wet :)

LIPGLOSS

Dollface | A sheer baby pink lip gloss, it's very sheer on me so I only have a skin swatch to show. It didn't show up on my lips so I didn't bother photographing my mouth wearing it. It's super moisturizing, great glossy sheen too.

PIGMENTS

Eye Of The Hawk | vibrant grape with a subtle lavender shimmer. When applied dry, the lavender shimmer is very faint, nearly invisible. When applied wet, the purple is very vivid and the lavender shimmer gives a slight ethereal glow. This is a really fun outer corner or crease shade, I even wore it as a lower liner on a neutral eye look, the purple looked really good with my brown eyes and black mascara lashes.

Fairy Tale | rich navy blue with a tiny light blue shimmer. This shade is so pigmented that applied dry or wet it looks the same, the shimmer pops a bit more when wet though. I have been LOVING this shade as a colored eyeliner and an outer crease shade, it's dark enough to define the lash line but colorful enough to show up as a blue instead of a black. If you are tired of black liner or like to change it up as I do, this is a great alternative to basic black.

Forest Love | deep green black with a satin-y finish, there's a small few shimmers in there but not enough to really categorize it as a shimmer shadow. This shade was a bit patchy to work on the lid with, but used wet as a liner or dusted in the outer corner for some definition it really creates a softer shadow than a rich black would.

Pink Frosting | vibrant magenta pink with a little flash of purple. When applied dry it's a very easy Barbie pink to brighten up a colorful eye look. When applied wet it's a full on bright and vivid hot magenta shade with that gorgeous purple-y sheen. I love it as a lead lid color, but it's also fun as a colored liner on a neutral eye look.

Smash | a grass green with golden yellow shimmer. This shade was the toughest to work with, when I applied it dry on my lid I experienced some balding (where the color removes itself instead of packing on more), but when I use it wet it is incredible! I'm not a very big fan of greens, but the yellow golden shimmer in this shade makes it so unique and very Spring appropriate. My favorite way to use this is as a colored liner, it's so fresh and colorful without being too dramatic or crazy bright.

Sprinkles | a cool aqua shimmer. This shade is my favorite of the bunch! When applied dry, it's a nice bright aqua blue. Applied wet it turns metallic, so gorgeous! I have been loving this as a lead lid shade, and as a colored lower lash liner. It's such a fun and Summer ready shade, I think this would look great with a vibrant orange or coral (Ooo La La!).

Sweet Nothings | a warm toned shimmery nude, leaning a bit golden at some angles. This is a nice day-to-day shade, but it does have a lot of glittery fall out, so I would suggest doing your face makeup last. I've been using this as an all over lid color, usually as a base for a more colorful look. This shade looks good wet or dry.

My Type of Day-to-Day

Here I have Sweet Nothings on the lid, applied dry, with a slender wing liner created with Smash, applied wet.

Bold & Colorful

Here I used Sprinkles on the lid, applied wet, I also used it dry to soften the edges. I used Fairy Tale dry to darken the outer corner for a nice gradient look.

Full-on Dramatic

Here I used every shade in the bunch. I have Sweet Nohings applied wet to the entire eye area as a base. I used Pink Frosting dry in the inner corner and half way in the inner crease. I met that with Eye Of The Hawk in the outer corner and half way in the outer crease. I lined the top lash line with Sprinkles on the inner lash line, and blended that into Fairy Tale as the outer lash line. I mimicked the same application on the lower lash line with Smash at the inner lash line and Forest Love at the outer lash line. All shades on top of Sweet Nothings were applied dry to show how colorful they can be when used on their own.

Maybelline Color Show Summer Collection 2013

2013-05-10T12:24:00.000-07:00

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It took me just one day to run around from Walmart to Rite Aid to CVS and collect the entire limited edition Maybelline Color Show Summer collection, eight coastal shades screaming to be worn to the beach. At first when I spotted the ads in magazines, I thought the collection looked boring and dull. Annnd then I saw them in person and couldn't help but cave and buy every shade. I'm loving these because of the variations of whites as well as the popping blues - I'm always partial to blues ;) Every shade is a creme formula and opaque in two coats.

960 Bare Escape | This is a cool grey tinted white, it reminds me of over cast mornings in the Bay Area, my favorite type of weather. I love the cool tone, I actually don't have any shades like this, and I appreciate it so much because some days I actually want to wear a white shade, but not a stark white and this is the perfection alternative in my opinion.

965 Urban Utopia | This is a green toned teal, reminds me more of solid jade jewelry than a true teal shade. It's not very bright, which was surprising because the in the bottle it looks bright. It wears a little darker than expected, like if you were in the shade. Initially I thought this was similar to "vintage" Hard Candy's Frenzy, but that one was bluer and Urban Utopia is greener.

970 Sandstorm | This is a peach tinted white, very sandy-beach-like. It's lighter than most sand I've experienced, but I can see where they were going with this ;) Again, this is a very nice alternative to a stark white manicure, this would even be fun in a french manicure (oh, I will need to do that ASAP!).

975 Poolside | This is a blue tinted white, it totally reminded me of soggy lined paper - like in school when you spill your water bottle all over your notebook, haha! This is a really mellow shade, I probably wouldn't wear this in place of a white, but it would be perfect in a blue manicure as an ombre player or even a polka dot theme. It's the only blue-white that I own, so I'm not sure if it's dupe-able.

980 Mint Mist | This is a green tinted white, a very light mint shade. It's pretty hard to tell the difference between Poolside and Mint Mist because they are both cool toned and very white at first glance. Straight on, this color looks white, but in the shade and at an angle you can pick up the minty hue.

985 Pacific Blues | EEK! I love this shade! This is a vibrant blue, a true pacific blue. It's so gorgeous, but it has a downfall, it stinks so bad! It smells like skunk or marijuana, so potent and takes a while to air out. I heard that Jesse's Girl Julie G Cabana Boy smells similar, so I'm wondering if it's a pigment thing. After applied, the formula dries to a demi-matte or rubber-looking finish.

990 Azure Seas | This is a very vivid blue, it is very similar to "vintage" Hard Candy's Frenzy, so it instantly stole my heart. As gorgeous as this color is, it is a stainer! OMG, it turned my cuticles grey, my tips looked like they were freezing and I had to scrub and buff to really get the color off completely. I probably won't use this is a full manicure, maybe just limit it to nail art. It's a very saturated color, in fact, it could probably get the job done in one good coat.

995 Midnight Swim | This is a deep navy blue, a good alternative to a black because it has a cool blue hue. It's very rich in color but still needs a second coat to even out the coverage. I wasn't particularly thrilled with this shade when I bought it, but after wearing it I feel that it's a chic and polished shade that will give me the sexiness of a black without the gothic vibe, know what I mean? ;)

Base Coat: Zoya Anchor Base Coat

Top Coat: Zoya Armor Top Coat

Cuticles: E.L.F. Essential Nourishing Cuticle Pen

Glossybox April 2013 (US)

2013-05-09T14:41:00.002-07:00

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The April Glossybox arrived on the last day of April, so I was not able to post this in the same month. I had read on their Facebook page that the shipments went out a little later than usual, no biggy, I still LOVE this month's box! Sadly, there's no GlossyMag this month, in celebration of Earth Day, April's issue is an online only version - not really something I care for since I like to collect these and re-read them for inspiration. I didn't even go online to read this month's issue :(

The boxes range from $18.33 - $21.00 per box, depending on the plan you choose when subscribing. Each month your box will have at least 5 "luxury travel sized" beauty products - some may be full size, but still travel friendly. Product brands range from Burberry and Illamasqua to Zoya and Shea Terra, they list about 30 brands on their website. Oh, and the packaging is well worth the money, it is really put together nicely, much nicer than most beauty subscription services.

Each box includes a GlossyMag, Glossybox's very own beauty magazine, these are my favorite perk to the subscription because I find a lot of inspiration in these booklets.

Sign up for Glossybox, gain GLOSSYDots towards a FREE box, refer friends for more GLOSSYDots and freebie perks and enjoying a box of beauty at your doorstep every month!

I filmed an unboxing video, but I still wanted to share the product photos so you can get a better look at everything. Here's everything that came in my April 2013 Glossybox (US):

- Alterna Haircare Bamboo Style Boho Waves Spray | .85 fl oz | value $4.45
- Bvlgari Eau Parfumee au the Blanc Tea Bag For Bath | .5 oz | value $9.50
- TIGI Cosmetics Glow Blush - Brilliance | .07 oz | value $22.00
- The Honest Company Organic Lip Balm - Purely Simple | .15 oz | value $3.32
- Wash With Joe Coffeemint Invigorating Bodywash | 1 fl oz | value $1.75
- Le Metier de Beaute Replenishing Daily Solution | 3 ml | value $19.23
*exclusive extra: $75 off coupon code to purchase the full size of LMdB Daily Solution, CODE: glossybox, EXPIRES: 5/31/13

VALUE: $135.25 (includes the $75 coupon for LMdB, because that's practically FREE money!)
COST: $21/mon

Get $2.75 cash back when you shop through Ebates.com

Get $2.00 cash back when you shop through ShopAtHome.com

Get $3.00 cash back when you shop through MrRebates.com

Mrs. P's Nail Potions - It's My Party

2013-05-08T14:41:00.000-07:00

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I bought Mrs. P's Nail Potion in It's My Party ($8.17) for my Easter manicure, which I never got around to showing off, but I figured some proper swatches would be sufficient ;) This is a milky white base (opaque in two coats) with "multi-colored, multi-sized and multi-shaped glitters", there is so much fun packed into this bottle! The main reason why I love it more than any other confetti-type polish is because of the white base, that's so unique to my eyes and I love white-toned polishes, so chic. Photos show 3 coats, no top coat.

Essence Gel-Look Top Coat

2013-05-06T14:34:00.000-07:00

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I have been really loving the new Essence Gel-Look Top Coat, it's thick, super shiny and it extends my manicures for at least a full week. I haven't done a gel manicure yet or even seen one in person, but based on photos I have seen online, I could see how this Essence top coat gives a gel-look. A lot of people have asked how it compares to the infamous Seche Vite Fast Dry Top Coat, which I don't own or use because the smell gives me migraines. I would say it gives a high shine similar to Seche Vite, it doesn't shrink my polish (where it pulls the polish from the nail tip after drying), it smells like an average nail polish and it dries pretty quickly, nothing crazy-fast. Overall, I'm loving it, using it as much as possible and I highly recommend picking one up, especially since it's only $2.49!

Essence Gel-Look Top Coat | $2.49
This sealing top coat is absolutely essential if you're looking for long-lasting style. Thanks to its glossy texture with staying power and enhanced shine, it keeps all types of nail decorations in place and provides an extra-shiny finish to make unique styles stand out even more!

Priceless Gifts for Mother's Day

2013-05-06T10:28:00.002-07:00

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Via: Promocode4share.com

Get the embed code for your site.

Get Firmoo 2013 May New Arrivals for Free

2013-05-06T10:07:00.001-07:00

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FYI: If this post hits 50 comments, we will do a giveaway! Comment below with which glasses you'd love to have on Firmoo free glasses selection

Beauty, fashion and accessories cannot live without each other, why not change up your look with some fashionable frames or even update your current eye wear? Firmoo has just launched their First-Pair-Free program to everyone worldwide, new arrivals for May are included, and you only need to pay shipping.

Here are some of the new arrivals for May:

Frame link: http://www.firmoo.com/eyeglasses-p-2216.html

Frame link: http://www.firmoo.com/eyeglasses-p-2246.html

Frame link: http://www.firmoo.com/eyeglasses-p-2225.html

Frame link: http://www.firmoo.com/eyeglasses-p-2215.html

Corresponding frame link: http://www.firmoo.com/eyeglasses-p-2057.html

Corresponding frame link: http://www.firmoo.com/eyeglasses-p-1025.html

Similar frame link: http://www.firmoo.com/eyeglasses-p-1017.html

Corresponding frame link: http://www.firmoo.com/eyeglasses-p-1025.html

Similar frame link: http://www.firmoo.com/eyeglasses-p-1017.html

Corresponding frame link: http://www.firmoo.com/eyeglasses-p-1944.html

I wish I wore frames because these all look so chic and trendy :) Take some time and get your free glasses at http://www.firmoo.com/free-glasses.html.

About Firmoo

Firmoo - www.firmoo.com is the World's Most Popular Online Eyeglasses Store. We have always been committed ourselves to offering customers the best quality products at the most affordable prices which start at 8 dollars. For this reason, we have gained a solid reputation and trust from 580,000+ fans on Facebook & cooperated with 10,000+ bloggers worldwide.

BIG Barielle Sweepstakes!

2013-05-06T09:21:00.002-07:00

Barielle is running a big Sweepstakes, Monday May 6th thru Monday May 27th. There will be 10 winners and one Grand Prize Winner.

The prizes are Mani-Pedi Spa kits and the Grand Prize includes one Michael Kors Wallet in addition to the Spa Kits.

The lucky winners will get:
1- One 5 Pack Nail Color Set – Retail $25
2- One Nail Rebuilding Protein – Retail $17.50
3- One Nail Strengthener Cream – Retail $17
4- One No Chip Speed Dry Topcoat – Retail $12.50
5- One Total Foot Care Cream 2.5oz – Retail $12.00
6- One Professional Protective Hand Cream 2.5oz – Retail $8.00

Total Value of $92.00!!!

The Grand Prize includes the Spa Kit plus a Michael Kors wallet (value over $100.00)

If you are entering using a mobile device please use this link: http://promoshq.wildfireapp.com/website/6/contests/323659

CLICK TO ENTER

FreeBeautyEvents May Contest & Events!

2013-05-05T18:42:00.003-07:00

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FreeBeautyEvents provides dates and locations of, you guessed it, free beauty events - events where you can score free makeovers, samples, coupons and more! I attended a P&G event at my local CVS last June, you can see photos from that HERE. They also run weekly contests on their blog to win beauty products.

FreeBeautyEvents hosts a monthly contests where you can win some awesome beauty products!
For May's contest, they will be giving away 10 prizes:

Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash with NutriumMoisture
Dove Sensitive Skin Body Wash with NutriumMoisture
Dove Beauty Bar for Deep Moisture

*The Contest runs 5/1/2013 to 5/31/2013, winners will be chosen on 6/2/2013 and notified by 6/15/2013.

What's Coming Up?

May 10th and 11th, demonstrators will be at Rite Aid giving free samples and coupons of the new Revitalift Miracle Blur just in time for Mother’s Day. You can also celebrate Mother’s Day at H-E-B in Texas with a complimentary Almay makeover on May 12th. Information like this is available on our website where spas and retailers can promote their events.

On the website you can enter your zip code to find out what makeover, gift with purchase, spa open houses and sampling events are happening near your home.

I'm all about free beauty events, so I made sure I'm following them everywhere possible!
Website: http://www.freebeautyevents.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Free-Beauty-Events/117088506568
Google+: https://plus.google.com/105502389330177969589/posts
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/freebeautyevent/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#%21/FreeBeautyEvent

ELF Essential 10-Piece Nail Polish Set

2013-05-04T11:15:00.000-07:00

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This Spring ELF has released some special makeup and polish sets, today I have the ELF Essential 10pc Nail Polish Set, $10.00, to share with you. I did informal swatches of each shade because I just don't have time to swatch each polish as a full on manicure. Most of these are permanent shades, the only new and special edition ones are Buff It Out and Electric Fuchsia.

Every bottle had the same quality and formula, opaque in two coats, easy to apply brush, super pigmentation - photos show two coats, no top coat.

Both glitters polishes were swatch on top of ELF White and ELF Black to show more details

NEW ELF Product: Essential Lip Balm Tint

2013-05-03T20:06:00.000-07:00

Just spotted new products on the ELF website, these are the Essential Lip Balm Tint, $2.00 each, 4g in size, 4 shades available. "This lightly tinted lip balm gives the perfect flush of color for a beautiful, natural look. The Coconut, Grape, Shea Butter and Rice Wax infused formula conditions lips on contact for long-lasting, hydrating comfort." "Smooth onto lips with fingertip or a lip brush. Wear alone or layer under lipstick or gloss. Reapply as often as desired." OMG! I am so excited to buy all these! I'm nowhere ready to handle yet another ELF haul/shopping spree (still have piles of ELF makeup to review still) but I'm hoping these are similar to their Studio Tinted Lip Conditioners which are $3 each, I love those!

NYC Metro Girl Review - handmade bath & body

2013-05-03T13:38:00.002-07:00

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Last month I received a glorious sample box of NYC Metro Girl products, handmade, natural and vegan friendly bath and body products. I have used everything up and finally have my thoughts and review to share with you today. Spoiler: I LOVE everything! I actually just purchased another Sugar Scrub because it's so amazing :) A while back I did an exclusive interview with NYC Metro Girl, so click HERE to read why she started and what the best sellers are!

Shea Butter Sugar Scrub - Zing Zing ($9.00 | 5.5 oz)
INGREDIENTS: Organic sugar, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter),Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil,Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Oil
THIS IS MY FAVORITE BODY PRODUCT OF LIFE! I'm no even exaggerating, I cannot believe how amazing this scrub is. To preface, I already love body scrubs and dry sugar/salt scrubs, I have tried a handful of brands and they are all nice, but none of them perform like the NYC Metro Girl Shea Butter Sugar Scrub. First off, it has a light scent, which I appreciate because a lot of scrubs go overboard with their fragrance (which means I get sick of the scent and take long breaks from using them up). Zing Zing smells sweet like the shea butter and invigorating like the grapefruit. Second, the feeling is very moisturizing, not too abrasive, smoothing and the oils soak in so nicely. My favorite quality is the after glow - HOLYMOLY - the glorious afterglow! :) The oils do not make my skin oily or slimy or lint attracting like most scrubs do, instead my skin drinks up the oils and feel hydrated, supple and visibly show a "glow from within". Can you tell I'm obsessed with it? I honestly want to write out a poem to describe it, instead, let me just wholeheartedly recommend that you buy it and see for yourself how amazing your skin will look, perfect for Summertime too!

Shea Butter Soap - Energy Twist ($5.00 | 4.5 oz)
INGREDIENTS: Olive Oil (Olea Europaea), Water, Organic Shea Butter, Coconut Oil (Cocos Nucifera), Palm Oil (Elaeis Guineensis), Castor Oil, Sodium Hydroxide, Fragrance.
This is easily my second favorite, at first I didn't read what it was and instantly started using it as a body soap in the shower, and now I'm hooked on it. It lathers so nicely, even more so when I use my fluffy loofa. The soap feels soft on the skin, almost as soft as a shower oil, it definitely impressed me that it did not dry out my skin or make it "squeaky" clean like most bar soaps do. The after effect? Heavenly! My skin felt baby smooth, and that was before I applied my body lotion. This scent, Energy Twist, is really incredible "A stimulating blend of Citrus, including Grapefruit, Lemon and Lime, with hints of fresh Cucumber and Jasmine, and a touch of Pineapple, Blackberry and Champagne." It has a very luxurious vibe to it <3

Vegan Tangerine Handmade Soap ($5.00 | 3 oz)
INGREDIENTS: Palm Oil, Water, Olive Oil, Coconut Oil, Sodium Hydroxide, Tangerine Essential Oil, Blueberry Seeds.
This is a fantastic soap. unlike most handmade soaps that can feel drying after rinsing, this Vegan Handmade Soap is so moisturizing! I have actually been skipping on hand lotion after each hand wash I do with this soap. I really appreciate that this soap doesn't dry out my hands, that's a major quality in a bar soap that I always look for. The blueberry seeds are gentle and feel like they lightly exfoliate, a very relaxing and massaging sensation. The scent is very light and clean, a refreshing change to over-perfumed soaps in the stores today.

Cupcake Soap - Lavender's Kiss ($5.00 | 4.5 oz)
CUPCAKE INGREDIENTS: Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Sodium Hydroxide, Annatto Seed, Fragrance.
FROSTING INGREDIENTS: Glycerin, Water, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sorbitol, Propylene glycol, Disodium Lauryl sulfosuccinate, Stearic Acid, Sodium Chloride, Diazolidinyl Urea (and) Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Tetrasodium EDTA, Propylene Glycol, Sorbitol, Water, Sodium Stearate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Goats Milk, Sodium Myristate, Sodium Laurate, Triethanolamine, Tocopherol, Titanium Dioxide, Yellow 5, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil.
OhMyGosh, this soap is the cutest thing ever! It took me so long to cave in and finally use it because I loved just looking at it and smelling it. It's a very soft and delicate soap on the hands, it feels moisturizing during and after hand washing. The scent is a lovely lavender, again, lightweight on the perfume - so it's pleasant to use. Obviously this would be a cute and unique gift idea, but aside from what it looks like, it performs amazing - I always used to hate when people gifted me cute soaps that weren't worth using... this NYC Metro Girl Cupcake Soap will look, smell and feel great!

Bath Salts - Green Peppermint ($4.00 | 3.7 oz)
INGREDIENTS: Epsom Salt, Sea Salt, Glycerin, Fragrance, Color
I wish I was more of a bath-taker, but I just never think to draw a bath and sit in water. Well, when I received these bath salts and caught the deliciously sweet peppermint scent, I knew I had to make a point of forcing myself into the tub to try these out. This is my first time using bath salts, and it felt so nice, so relaxing, so addicting! It's amazing how soft the water feels when using these salts, I was really not expecting that. Such a luxurious surprise! There are plenty more scents in the NYC Metro Girl shop, but I think I'm going to buy Sweet Nuts (Honey Almond) and Coco Dream (Patchouli and Coconut) on my next order.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/nycmetrogirl

Mother's Day 60% off BH Cosmetics

2013-05-03T13:05:00.001-07:00

purchased | press sample | sponsored | affiliated | advertisement

Mother's Day Sale: Makeup Palettes under $15

Live from: May 3rd- May 12th

Get 7.5% cash back when you shop through Ebates.com

Get 7.5% cash back when you shop through ShopAtHome.com

Get 8% cash back when you shop through MrRebates.com

Buy 3 Get 3 FREE - The Body Shop

2013-05-03T12:25:00.002-07:00

purchased | press sample | sponsored | affiliated | advertisement

Buy 3 Get 3 Free! Offer valid May 3rd–May 5th

Shipping is always free on orders of $50 or more.

Get 10% cash back when you shop through Ebates.com

Get 7% cash back when you shop through ShopAtHome.com

Get 10% cash back when you shop through MrRebates.com

40% off NYX on Cherry Culture!

2013-05-03T12:07:00.001-07:00

purchased | press sample | sponsored | affiliated | advertisement

40% off NYX on Cherry Culture!

CODE: NYX4013 May 3 - May 8

ELF Essential 14-Piece Nail Cube Brights - Limited Edition

2013-05-02T10:29:00.002-07:00

purchased | press sample | sponsored | affiliated | advertisement

Among the Spring products ELF has launched, there's a new version of their 14 pc nail polish cube. The ELF Essential Nail Cube in Brights includes 10 creamy shades and 4 glitters. This is such a fun set to play with, it's special edition so grab yours before it's sold out, $14.00. This set has permanent shades, but also features new and special edition shades; Metallic Elegance, Sunflower, Lavendar Mist, Electric Fuchsia.

Each swatch is two coats with no top coat

The glitters were swatched on top of ELF White and ELF Black, two coats of glitter for each nail

Liquid Sky Lacquer - TGIF

2013-05-01T16:45:00.000-07:00

purchased | press sample | sponsored | affiliated | advertisement

I have been following @WhimsicalColor on Instagram for quite a while now, she creates really fun and unique polishes labelled under Liquid Sky Lacquer. A couple weeks ago I set my alarm to jump on the restock of one of her latest creations named TGIF, a really punky glitter polish packed with 90's nostalgia, well at least it reminds me of the 90's ;)

Polish description from her website: "TGIF is a glitterbomb of blue micro flakies, fine periwinkle blue hex, fine white hex, small gunmetal gray hex, medium lavender hex,small purple squares, large pink neon hex, medium neon green hex, white medium hex and rectangles."

90's right? Totally makes me think of Saved By The Bell, The Fresh Prince of Bell-Air, Boy Meets World... I can keep going, lol!

I swatched two coats over Color Me Monthly Blue Skies Ahead, no top coat applied. The white rectangle glitters did not want to come out so I might have to buy the full size soon so I could get some of those guys on my nails :)

Lancôme Aquatic Summer Summer 2013 Color Collection

2013-05-01T14:19:00.001-07:00

Plunge into a turquoise pool. Jump off a yacht into the deep azure of the Mediterranean. Lancôme’s Aquatic Summer Collection transports you to the warm climates and refreshing seas of the world's most luxe destinations. Embrace the season and dive into an aquatic summer with Lancôme.

Vernis in Love in Simply Aqua, Ultramarine Green, Aqua Bleu and Plunge Pool, $15 –These new limited-edition shades of Lancôme’s iconic polish brighten up your nails with brilliant turquoise and azure tones.

Available NOW April 2013

April BBHQ: Inspirations :)

2013-05-01T13:53:00.001-07:00

What is BBHQ? It stands for Beauty Blogger Headquarters, a little blogger's blog I launched to help bloggers come together and share tips, tricks and advice on all aspects of blogging. We have monthly chats about interesting topics; here's some of our past topics:

Catch up on our November task: Blogger Beginnings
Catch up on our December/January task: Blogging Photography
Catch up on our February task: Blogger's Office and Organization
Catch up on our March task: Photo/Video Editing Programs

NEW & INTERESTED IN JOINING? Click HERE to see our welcome announcement

This month we are chatting about Inspirations (check out our other BBHQ entries for this month HERE), I always compile some questions to get the ball rolling...

What inspires you to blog and/or vlog?
I think my passion for cosmetics is the true inspiration behind my blogging. I honestly want to review every single item in my collection because I love to talk about why I like or dislike products. Sometimes when I'm at the store I'll spend a good few minutes having a conversation with someone in the cosmetics section about makeup or nail polish. Even those 5-10 minute chats with random people get me inspired to blog.
Videos are a little different for me, I don't have as much time to film, so when I do it's usually a haul, a current quick makeup look, mini product reviews on empties, just little videos like that. This year I have been brainstorming video reviews on products, so I guess my blog inspires my vlogs too :)

Share some of your favorite blogs to read for inspiration?
I LOVE to read beauty blogs, it really feeds into my addiction of knowing about all the products out there. When I read product reviews, makeup looks, nail polish swatches, etc., I just feel a burst of energy and inspiration to sit a blog all day long! (if only I could) Some beauty reporters I enjoy reading are Temptalia, Beautezine, Beauty Broadcast, Beauty Junkies Unite, Buy Now Blog Later, Chalkboard Nails, Crystal's Crazy Combos, essiebutton, Glitz Glam Budget, Vanity Rouge, Hello Miss Niki, jennstaz, Let them have Polish, Lucy's Stash, Manicure Addict, Moms Makeup Stash, Nouveau Cheap, The PolishAholic, Valentine Kisses
(OMG could I list any more blogs?? ...yes, probably, lol)

Share some of your favorite Youtube channels to watch for inspiration?
Pixiwoo, EmilyNoel83, ItsJudyTime, and so many more - I watch Youtube videos practically all day long, but only a few really boost my blogging ideas and passion to review.

What are your favorite magazines to browse for inspiration?
Lately I have been really enjoying InStyle and Vogue, mainly for the advertisements not the actual articles. I also revisit old Nylon magazines too.

How do you organize your inspiration? Pinterest board, notebook, sketchpad, etc.?
Sometimes I rip out ads from magazines and put them on my desk board or wall, sometimes I keep a list on my white board of ideas, most of the time I take photos on my phone and change my background on my phone and computer every week so I'm always seeing what I think it beautiful and inspiring.

What motivates you to continue blogging and/or vlogging?
Aside from the obvious passion for what I do, I would have to say the interaction with everyone that reads my blogs, views my photos, shares my links, etc. I love to chat on social media, the communications always get me pumped up about ideas for what to blog and film next.

How would you describe your style of blogging and/or vlogging, how has it changed from when you first started?
I would say my style is natural, ever since my very first post, I have always blogged in the form of how I would talk to you in person. I ramble on about product details, why I love or dislike something, how a product makes me feel, what it reminds me of, and sometimes I share personal tid bits about my kids or past memories. I really just sit down and start talking through my fingers, I rarely re-read my work or revise anything.
I do envy bloggers that have a uniform and organized style of reviewing products, I wish I had the patience and time to do that. But, I do try to keep my thoughts as organized as possible so my reviews don't seem too scattered ;)

How do you handle competitive thoughts with other bloggers/vloggers?
Competition is human nature, but having the ability to transform all competitive thoughts into motivation and practicing "paying it forward" is an amazing quality.
For example, sometimes I look at bloggers who have 1k+ subscribers and produce average content and ask myself what am I doing wrong? how am I not attracting that many people? Once I have that negative thought, I instantly address it. I am a full time stay at home mother of two. I work hard to create quality photos, swatches, and reviews. I blog because I love it. I see you viewing my posts so I know you are enjoying them. I see my numbers rising so I know you are coming back and sharing my links. I don't have to do giveaways or link-ups or collabs to gaining numbers, I AM doing it on my own!
Sometimes I have to recheck myself, that's normal. I always remind myself there is progress being made, at my own pace and in my own way. My work is received positively so that's all that matters. This year I have been practicing promoting myself more through social medias, joining group activities and basically being more of a participant in the beauty community rather than staying in my quiet little corner and hoping people will stop by.

For fun, share some of your favorite inspiring photos
um... Can you tell I love advertisements?