This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
I ordered a few items from LUSH and just in the nick of time too. I’d run out of all my bubble bars over the weekend.
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Category: Health + Beauty
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
Just a quick comparison of these two drugstore BB creams — the Aveeno Clear Complexion BB Cream and the Maybelline Dream Cream BB Cream.
Both BB Creams have a Broad Spectrum SPF 30. The Aveeno BB Cream is around $15 at drugstores and the Maybelline BB Cream is less expensive at around $9.
I had started using the Maybelline Dream Fresh BB Cream and really liked it. Application is easy and it gives medium to light coverage. The finish is slightly greasy, so I set it with a translucent powder and it lasts all day.
When I ran out of the Maybelline, I decided to give the Aveeno Clear Complexion BB Cream a try. The formula is much thicker than the Maybelline and it seems more dense. I prefer the pump on the Aveeno bottle; seems more sanitary. But the first pump of product always pushed out a clump of product that had dried and hardened inside the tip of the spout; gross. I’d find myself squirting out a pump onto a tissue just to get rid of the clump and wasting all that product.
Application of the Aveeno BB Cream was “smeary”. I’m not sure if it was my sunscreen underneath, or just the product itself, but it was always streaky on me. I’d set it with the translucent powder and it’d be fine, but only after blending/rubbing it off with my fingers. I’d find my skin looking shiny near the end of the day and my skin is never greasy.
So, I’ve switched back to my trusted Maybelline Dream Fresh BB Cream. It looks kind of scary-orange out of the bottle, but it blends into the skin quite nicely as an alternative to foundation.
Let me know what BB Creams you like. I’m interested in some high end ones as well.
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
I picked up Miss Jessie’s Curly Pudding from Target; $38 for the 16oz size. I’d never heard of Miss Jessie’s products, but I was interested to try it because it promised “no frizz and no crunchy curls.”
I told you I’ve been wearing my hair curly in my Summer Hair Don’t Care – 5 Tips to Protect Your Hair post. I had been using Catwalk Curlesque Defining Serum and the Catwalk Curlesque Curls Rock Amplifier by TIGI to help define my curls, but it can make my curls too crunchy if I use too much or make my hair frizzy if I use too little. So, I gave Miss Jessie’s Curly Pudding a chance.
First Impressions
The smell of this lavender colored pudding is not good; it reminds me of Nair hair remover cream. The texture of the Curly Pudding is just like pudding — like a whipped jello.
To use the pudding, you rub a tablespoon sized amount on your palms, and distribute to through a section of your wet hair, from roots to ends. Repeat for each section until the pudding is on every section. Then, let your hair air dry or dry it with a diffuser.
With the smell and the unusual texture of this styling product, I almost couldn’t put it in my hair. Make sure you apply it in a well-ventilated room. After I finally distributed the product through my wet hair, I gently combed it out with a wide-tooth comb. I let my hair air dry and I really liked the results the next morning.
My curls were defined and soft — no crunch or plastic curl feel. However, the smell of product in my hair was still faint even the next day. :/ Despite the smell and texture, I’ll definitely use Miss Jessie’s Curly Pudding again because the results were fantastic.
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
I know it’s only been a month since I posted my Night Time Skin Care Routine, but I’ve incorporated a few more products and I’m loving the results!
I start off the exact same way as before, but before using any serums, I cleanse my face with Miracle Worker Miraculous Anti-aging Retinoid Pads.
These exfoliating pads come with the serum bottled separately. You pour the entire bottle of solution into the pads when you’re ready to start using them. Because the pads have retinoid to help reduce dark spots and brighten skin, it’s extremely important to wear sunscreen the next day when you are out — even if it’s overcast. The retinol can make you more sensitive to the sun.
After, using a Miracle Worker pad, I follow with the Lancome Genefique and Lancome Visionnaire as before. I’ll then follow with the Lancome Génifique Yeux Light-Pearl Eye-Illuminating Youth Activating Concentrate.
This eye serum is very cool and soothing to the under eye. The applicator is unique with its rotating tip. The serum is hydrating and absorbs well. I don’t have a problem with puffiness or wrinkles, so I can’t speak to those claims, but it helps my skin look brighter and moisturized. My makeup also goes on better in the morning after using this.
Next, I apply Lancome’s ABSOLUE PREMIUM Bx – Absolute Night Recovery Cream
This cream doesn’t mess around! I apply it to my face, neck, and chest. You’ll instantly feel more moisturized with this non-greasy cream. But by the morning, your skin will feel so much healthier and smoother. This cream is super expensive at $185 for 2.6oz, but it’s worth it.
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
I am so excited! I stopped by Target to pick up a few things and do my routine check to see if the Fitbit Flex had come in, and today I found it! So, of course, I picked one up and cancelled the order I made online.
They only had the black color available, which was my first choice anyway. They also had the extra wristband colors available in the three pack which I might consider later on.
***Update: I got the new Fitbit ChargeHR — see my first impressions here!
Once you unbox everything, you’ll need to go to fitbit.com/setup. Select your device, the Fitbit Flex, and it will download some software onto your computer. I’m doing all of this right now so you’re getting the first impressions.
Plug in your USB connector with the Tracker and Set Up a New Fitbit device. From there, you can set up a new Fitbit account or log into your existing one. I’m creating a new account.
Once you’re all set with your account, it’ll prompt you to plug in the Wireless Sync Dongle.
The Wireless Sync Dongle does a quick search for your device. Once it finds your device, you’ll have to double tap gently on the Tracker to “confirm” syncing.
Now, whenever your Fitbit Flex is within 20ft of your Wireless Sync Dongle, it’ll automatically sync. So cool!
Fitbit Flex 101
Charging
Your tracker battery lasts for about 5 days. To charge it, remove the tracker from the band and place it in the charger until all 5 lights are solid.
Syncing
When your Flex is within 20 feet of the Wireless Sync Dongle, your Flex will sync automatically with your Fitbit account. You can also sync via your smartphone if it supports Bluetooth Low Energy (4.0). Learn more about Supported Devices or about Syncing.
Wearing
Your Flex tracker should be placed inside the included wristband and worn on your non-dominant hand for best results. Flex is water resistant and can be worn in the shower and out in the rain.
Goals
On the dashboard, see your progress towards goals for:
- • Steps
- • Calories Burned
- • Distance
- • Very Active Minutes
Goal Progress
Each light on your Flex tracker represents 20% of your goal. When you reach your goal, Flex will buzz and flash in celebration of your achievement.
Changing Goals
To choose which goal is shown on your Flex display, go toDevice Settings in your account. You can change a goal amount on the corresponding Dashboard tile.
Tracking Sleep
Sleep tracking can be turned on by tapping the top of the Flex display area until you feel the motor vibrate and the 2 outer lights turn on. Once in sleep tracking mode, the Tracker will show two lights moving side-to-side.
Forgot to turn on sleep tracking?
You can add a sleep log on the website or mobile app. Go to the Sleep section and add a sleep log. Need help? Learn More.
Silent Alarms
Set a Silent Alarm from the Devices area of your account.
Overall, I’m impressed with how small and lightweight the wristband is. The tracker came 80% charged, so I’m just waiting until that fifth light stays solid before I start wearing the device.
See my updated review HERE
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
I’ve been wearing my curly hair naturally — no flat ironing or curling. Even though I always use a heat protectant when styling, I’ve noticed my hair looks healthier without added heat. No surprise there, but I started reading about other ways I can protect my hair.
Here are 5 ways you can protect your hair during summer….and all year long.
1. Use a wide-tooth comb
It’s summer time — you’re in and out of the pool, relaxing at the beach or the lake, or just showering the sweat away — your hair is getting wet possibly more than usual. It’s important to be gentle with you wet hair; it’s weaker when it’s wet. Brushing through your wet hair with a brush will pull your hair and can cause breakage. Using a wide-tooth comb is more gentle. Start combing from the bottom and work your way up to the roots. If your hair gets very knotty, use a detangling spray to help you comb through.
This detangling comb from The Body Shop is $7.
This Wide-Tooth Comb from Silk Elements is infused with olive oil and wheat germ. $4 from Sally’s Beauty Supply
2. Avoid heat styling
Like I said before, added heat can be rough on your hair. Of course a heat protectant can help, but especially during summer, try to avoid extra heat.
3. Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase
A silky pillowcase will allow your hair to slide and glide freely. Standard cotton pillowcases can absorb the natural oils from your hair, drying it out. Cotton can also cause your hair to stick and with your head turning, your hair could snag and break.
A silk pillowcase can also be hydrating to your hair because of it’s natural amino acids.
Sleepnbeauty.com highlights some things to keep in mind when searching for your silk pillowcase.
4. Ribbon Hair Ties
If you’re like me and you wear a lot of ponytails, you should try Ribbon Hair Ties. When I wear my ponytails in the same spot, I notice some breakage where I tie the usual Goody hair ties. Nothing is wrong with traditional Goody hair ties, especially if you adjust the height of your ponytail regularly, but ribbon-type hair ties are much more gentle on your hair.
They’re basically an elastic ribbon, tied in a knot. You could make your own or you can buy them from a number of retailers.
5. Don’t wear you purse on your shoulder
If your shoulder bag rests on your hair, it could be causing breakage. Constant tugging on your hair on the same spot can make your hair weak. Try switching up your bag placement, or being mindful to move your hair out of the way before taking your bag.
Obviously, the healthier your hair, the less likely it is to break. If you already have dry hair or split ends, a good hair cut can give you a fresh start and always looks great for summer.
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
With summer just around the corner, it’s extremely important that you are protecting your skin from the sun.
Here are 5 ways to protect your skin.
1. Stay out of the sun.
“But it’s summer! I want to be outside!” You can still be outside, enjoy the pool, have fun at the beach — whatever you want to do, but be smart about it.
The sun’s rays are most harmful between 10am and 2pm, so avoid being outside at those times if possible.
2. Wear SPF clothing
If you’re going to be out and about, cover up your body to prevent sun exposure. Coolibar makes clothes with UPF 50+ fabrics. SPF clothing is great because it is lightweight and breathable; it’ll wick away moisture and protect you from the sun.
3. Wear a hat and sunglasses
Wearing a hat will keep you cool but also protect the sensitive skin on your face. Plus, don’t forget about your scalp and hair; you’ll want to keep them protected too! Same goes with your sunglasses — wearing them will protect your eyes from wrinkles due to sun exposure and from squinting in the brightness. And don’t just wear any old pair, make sure you use a pair that has UV protection.
4. Wear SPF lip balm
Dry, burned and peeling lips are no fun for summer, so prevent that with a nice SPF lip product.
This balm from Jack Black protects against UVA and UVB rays.
This balm from Kiehl’s come in different tints for sun protection with a touch of color!
5. Wear sunscreen!
Of course you should wear a sunscreen everyday, but especially in the summer when you’re more likely to be outside. Ensure you are using a sunscreen with a SPF of at least 30. Apply it generously and often — especially if you’re going to be in and out of water. Make sure you use a broad spectrum sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays.
I use Neutrogena Dry Touch Broad Spectrum SPF 70 because it’s light and not greasy. It almost has a powder-like feel to it when it’s rubbed in.
Don’t forget to apply it on your hairline, and your ears too!
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
The Pearl system is unlike any other teeth whitening kits I’ve seen. The kit comes with the Pearl ionic handheld whitening unit and lots of individual tubes of whitening gel.
What makes this unique from other at-home whitening kits is the ionic whitening device — which won’t even activate unless you disperse the whitening gel evenly so all the contacts are fully coated
According to the website, your teeth can get up to 10 shades whiter, by using the device twice a day for only 5 minutes at a time. Ten minutes a day is definitely worth it to achieve a whiter smile.
Compared to Crest whitening strips, this system seems to give faster results, but also seems to get deep down into the crevices that Crest whitening strips may not reach.
The system is quite expensive at $195, but for a “professional” teeth whitening at home the price is worth it. There are additional tubes of the whitening gel sold separately for $50, so if you continue using the device, the cost isn’t that great.
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Fitbit Flex
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
I first heard about the Fitbit Flex in April and was excited for it to be released on May 1st. I signed up for the email announcement so I would be reminded to order mine. Only, I never got an email…. I went to the website during the middle of May to order one, but apparently they are on back order for 6-8weeks 8-10 weeks. I checked back recently and they’re still backordered.
Does anyone know what’s going on? Target, Amazon, and Bestbuy are all out as well. Does anyone have the Fitbit Flex? Where did you get yours and how do you like it?
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Top 10 Favorites from LUSH
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
10. Pop In The Bath
Pop in the Bath is a sweet smelling bubble bar. The come in a few different colors — I’ve seem pink, green, and blue and they all make tons of bubbles. This is one of Lush’s least expensive bubble bars at $7.25 and you can get at least two uses out of a bar this size.
9. Blackberry
I love the smell of this bath bomb. I especially like this bomb because it doesn’t have any “surprises” in it. Other bombs will have confetti or rose petals, ect., but this one is pure perfumey goodness. Your water will turn a pretty lavender color and you’ll find that the bomb is slow to dissolve — more time for you to enjoy the fizz!
8. Pink Bath Bomb
This super cute little bath bomb only costs $4.95, and is the perfect addition to a bath with a bubble bar. It’s bright pink color and little flowers can brighten up any regular bath. Smells like vanilla, but I notice that the smell doesn’t last that long. I always combine this with a bubble bar.
7. Honey I Washed The Kids
I love this soap because it smells exactly like honey! It has a beautiful golden color and a “honeycomb” top layer. I’m not really sure what the honeycomb layer is for since it seems to be made out of a waxy substance — it doesn’t lather. It could be for exfoliating, but it find it a little annoying and tend to select pieces from the store that don’t have that much.
6. Ocean Salt
I love this tropical smelling face/body scrub; it makes me think of summer. The think granules of salt come sprinkled across the top and you stir them in when you get home. It’s a great exfoliant, but be careful not to scrub too hard when using it on your face — it’s very abrasive. I like to use this in the shower as a body scrub.
5. Grease Lightening
This stuff is awesome! If you have any blemishes or clogged pores, use this as a spot treatment. I always see results overnight! The smell is ok and it won’t sting your face.
4. Sex Bomb
Of all Lush’s bath bombs, I love the smell of this the most. It smells sweet like rose and jasmine. It fizzes away a little more quickly than I’d like, and it actually leaves a purple ring around my tub, but it’s still one of the best bombs you can buy.
3. Rose Jam
These “bubbleroons” are kind of weird. It’s like two halves of a bubble bar with a jelly-like layer in between. I like this Rose Jam one because of the smell, the mountain of bubbles, and the silky feel of the water. It’s also easy to divide with the two sections kind of pressed together.
2. Creamy Candy Bubble Bar
I mentioned how I love the smells of all these products, but I really love the smell of this bar. I love the smell so much that I keep buying it even though I don’t get any color pay off or really any bubbles. It does, however, make the water silky smooth and, well, creamy. Creamy Candy is exactly what it says it is — a creamy smooth, candy smelling bar.
1. The Comforter
The Comforter is my absolute favorite! I seem to say that in every Lush post, but it’s true! If you get to buy one product from Lush, get the Comforter! You won’t regret it. It turns your water bright pink and makes it silky smooth. It’s definitely one of Lush’s more pricey bath products and it makes me really sad because I can remember when it was $9.95 — and I thought that was a lot! It’s $10.95 now, but I still think it’s worth it. Obviously, I ration it with every bath, but a little goes a long way.
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
I’ve been a Beauty Insider at Sephora for years which has been cool because, for every dollar you spend, you accumulate one point and you can purchase “perks” with your points. There are perks for 100 points and 500 points and you’ll get a complimentary birthday gift.
Lately though, none of the perks have seemed that interesting to me and my points have been accumulating. On my last trip to Sephora, I was offered a 1,000-point perk — a 20% off coupon to use on my next purchase. It seemed cool at the time so I accepted.
But is 20% off really worth it? A one time use coupon — to reward me for spending over $1,000? I love Sephora and they have most of the brands that I’m looking for — more of a selection than say Ulta, who also has a similar loyalty program. The differnce between Sephora and Ulta’s loyalty programs though is all in the rewards. I get dollar-off discounts on my purchases at Ulta when redeeming my points and I regularly receive 20% off coupons in the mail that don’t cost me any points at all.
Plus, with all my spending at Sephora, I’m a VIB (I spent at least $350/year) , and as a welcome, I got a 10% off card. That’s awesome, but for spending over $1000, I’d like to see a little bit more than 20%.
What do you think? Is the 1000 point perk worth it?
I love these two in combination – Lush’s Ocean Salt & Mask of Magnaminty.
The Ocean Salt face and body scrub is amazing. First of all, the smell is very tropical (made with lime and vodka) and the top is covered with lots of chunky salt. You mix it all up after you get it home and massage it all over your skin. The abrasiveness of the salt make this a great exfoliant but the avocado and coconut will prevent the scrub from drying out your skin.
Once you’ve exfoliated your face/neck/chest, apply the Mask of Magnaminty. This face mask is very cooling and will feel great after Ocean Salt. Let it dry and then rinse off. The mask will work to deep clean and brighten your skin with its pepperminty tingle.
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
Mascara just seems to go on smoother and stay on longer with a good primer. On my latest trip to Sephora, I picked up my favorite combination — Smashbox’s Layer Lash Primer and Lancome’s Hypnose Drama Mascara.
Primer prevents your mascara from drying out your lashes. Not only will it keep your lashes hydrated, but it’ll help your mascara glide on without clumping.
I’ve tried primers my Dior and Lancome, but this Smashbox primer is my favorite. It protects and adds volume while lengthening your lashes.
On top of one coat of Smashbox primer, I apply Lancome’s Hypnose Drama mascara generously. Hands down, my favorite mascara ever. I’ve tried other high-end mascaras, but I keep coming back to this one.
With a slight curve in the brush, you’ll be able to coat those harder to reach lashes for a perfect fanned-out look.
Definitely pick up these items if you get the chance!
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Night Time Skin Care Routine
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
The Clarisonic Mia is my favorite skincare tool! I love it. The Mia is perfect for travel and everyday use because of its size — it’s Clarisonic’s smallest skin cleansing system. The Mia runs for one minute on one setting. I’ll use it twice — once for my face and once for my neck & décolleté.
I use my Clarisonic with Philosophy’s Purity Made Simple cleanser. This cleanser is so gentle, yet it is strong enough to remove all of my makeup. With purity and the Clarisonic, I know I am removing all of the impurities from my skin.
After my skin is clean, I’ll apply Lancome’s Advanced Génifique serum. 
I love this because it absorbs quickly into my face, neck and décolleté. My skin looks youthful and radiant after using this serum and I feel that it preps my face well for the final step to my night time skin care routine, Lancome’s Visionnaire
This cream has a pleasant smell and is essentially, a skin corrector. It fixes visible pores, wrinkles, discoloration, and makes your skin feel soft and healthy.
See my UPDATED night time skin care routine here. 🙂