Tag: glow

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Blog Health + Beauty

Argan Summer Hydrating Skin Savers + Argan Daily Moisturizer REVIEW

muffinchanel-josie-maran-daily-argan-moisturizer-spf-40-47-review-vs-comparison-qvc-sephora-argan-summerThis post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here

This super cute set by Josie Maran is perfect for summer! The Argan Summer Hydrating Skin Savers set from QVC comes with the new formulation of the Daily Argan Moisturizer, the Light version of the signature Argan Oil, and the Argan Color Stick in the color Glow.

The light version of the Argan oil is super light and absorbs quickly into the skin. It’s described as having a semi matte finish and, compared to the regular version, it is more matte, but it’s still an oil. Since it is so light, it would be perfect for day time, wear in warmer months, or if you have oiler skin.

I love the Argan Color sticks; my favorite color is Dreamy Pink. This Color Stick is a beautiful pink with some silver shimmer/glitters. It can go on lips and cheeks and is a perfect travel item because of its multiple uses.




muffinchanel josie maran daily argan moisturizer spf 40 47 review vs comparison qvc sephora

The new formulation of the Argan Daily Moisturizer is great and with SPF 47, perfect for summer or wearing year round. If you are a fan of the old formulation of the Daily Moisturizer, but aren’t sure about trying the new formulation, here is a quick comparison:

muffinchanel josie maran daily argan moisturizer spf 40 47 review vs comparison qvc sephora old newAt first glance, both formulations look the same and smell similarly. Both are slightly more runny than traditional sunscreens. The new formulation is more like a traditional sunscreen in that, as you rub it in, it leaves a white residue. Both formulations absorb quickly, but you have to rub the new formulation in a little longer for it to absorb completely. This may be because it has a higher SPF (47 vs. 40).




The new formulation actually seems to hydrate the skin more than the older version and it smells great. I feel like it gives more sun protection and helps prep my skin for makeup. I love the new formulation and this amazing gift set!

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Blog Health + Beauty

GLAMGLOW YOUTHMUD | Review & SUPERMUD Comparison

This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here

Packaging

Muffinchanel glamglow youthmud tingleexfoliate black jar review sephora mud mask 2




I got the GLAMGLOW YOUTHMUD (.5 oz) as part of a gift set from Sephora. The kit came with the white jar SUPERMUD (1.2 oz.) in a pink/blue “reversible” gift box for $69. The kit is a good value because a 1.7 oz. size of either the YOUTHMUD or a 1.2 oz. size of the SUPERMUD alone would cost $69.  Still, 70 bucks is a lot to pay for a face mask. The packaging probably has something to do with the price — that Gift Sexy packaging is quite clever and the actual mask jars are weighty and substantial feeling. The YOUTHMUD jar was sealed with a foil seal (unlike the SUPERMUD).

YOUTHMUD
Muffinchanel glamglow youthmud tingleexfoliate black jar review sephora mud mask

The mud is a light brownish color with a few chunky bits here and there. The scent was subtle and clean/minty smelling; I actually liked it a lot.

Application

I applied the mask with a flat foundation brush. The mud is not too thick, but does have chunks of leaves and other ingredients in it. I sort of painted it all over my face, avoiding my eye area. The product spreads easily without being runny or super thick. I did apply the mask to my entire face, but you could also just use it as a spot treatment. With the .5oz. size, I estimate that I will get 1-2 more full face uses out of the GLAMGLOW YOUTHMUD.

Wear

I had read that this mask is “extremely” tingly/stingy. All the reviews I’d read recommend not using the mask if you had been tanning or using a retinol recently as it might make your skin extra sensitive and cause a rash/breakout. The mask was slightly tingly about a minute after I applied it & that feeling lasted a couple minutes. It wasn’t uncomfortable at all. I let the mask dry for about 30 minutes and it dried to a smooth, light grey color. The mask felt slightly tight and there were visible chunks of leaf all over.

Removal

To remove the mask, I splashed a little bit of water on my face to loosen it up and get rid of that tight feeling. I then softly rubbed my face in small circular motions. The mask has very fine, sand-like particles inside that worked to exfoliate and remove any dull/dry skin.  The mask was easy to remove in warm water and then I patted my face dry with a towel.

Results

I quite like this mask a lot. I didn’t experience extreme stinging/tingling/burning like I’d heard, the smell was pleasant, and the fine exfoliating particles left my skin feeling soft and smooth. My skin was glowing and had a nice, rosy (not irritated) flush look. My skin felt only slightly tight/dry after but I felt that it really prepped my skin to absorb my serums and nighttime treatments.

Comparison

If you haven’t read my full review on the SUPERMUD, you can check it out HERE.




This will be a quick side-by side comparison between these two masks:

MuffinChanel comparison supermud youthmud glamglow mud masks

Both masks are great and I think they work well together. If I had to choose only one, I’d get the GLAMGLOW YOUTHMUD in the black jar because I like the exfoliation and it’s a better value.

What do you think of the GLAMGLOW mud masks? Which is your favorite?

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Blog Lifestyle

Top 10 – October Favorites

This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here

  • Oliver

oliver 1968 muffinchanelI love this movie and not just because I like musicals. This 1968 adaptation of Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist is fun while touching on serious issues. If you haven’t seen the movie or read the book, I definitely recommend it. This used to be on Netflix, but they’ve taken it down since 🙁

  • Philip Glass

muffinchanel october favorites philip glass days and nights big sur californiaEarlier this month, we saw Philip Glass play at the Days and Nights Festival in Big Sur, California. It was a beautiful day and the festival was so much fun. If you aren’t familiar with Philip Glass, check out some of his solo piano HERE and HERE.

  • Josie Maran – Whipped Argan Oil

muffinchanel josie maran whipped argon oil best ever yay dry skinYou already know how amazing this has been for me! Of course I had to make it one of my October favorites 🙂

  • Josie Maran – 100% Pure Argan Oil

muffinchanel october favorites josie maran argan oilSo excited about this. Review HERE, but you can use this organic oil for so many things! It’s amazing and it is perfect for all skin types! 🙂 🙂 🙂 Historically, Argan oil has been used to treat acne, stretch marks and skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis!

  • Benefit – The POREfessional

muffinchanel october favorites the professional primer benefit cosmeticsI first got a sample of this with one of my Sephora purchases and I loved it. I recently picked up the full sized version, and I got a great deal! I use this on top of moisturizer but underneath foundation. It give a smooth canvas to apply your makeup and it reduced the appearance of pores — it’s gives an airbrushed effect.

  • Sephora by OPI – French Manicure Gel Nails

october favorites sephora by opi gel french muffinchanel

I love the classic look of a French manicure; it looks great with everything. This kit from Sephora is a great value with 2 full sized gel polishes, a detailing brush, and nail decals for just $29. I’ve only had this on my nails for 3 days, but the gel formula is amazing and will last up to two weeks. Super easy to apply and several colors to choose from in-store and online.

  • Pretty Little Liars

muffinchanel pllThis show makes me think of fall. I had a Netflix marathon last year in October and tried to keep up on the most recent season online. With the most recent Halloween special, I’m excited all over again to solve more of the mystery! Are you watching? Do you think Ezra is A?

  • GLAMGLOW SUPERMUD mask

muffinchanel october favorites glamglow glam glow face mud supermud tingling exfoliate clearing hollywood californiaI got this mask in a set in my last Sephora haul. I have used it twice and there is a full review HERE, but so far I really like it.

muffinchanel the plant organic cafe october favorites vegetarian lentils avocado beets mushrooms fries mixed greensmuffinchanel the plant organic cafe october favorites vegetarian lentils avocado beets mushrooms fries mixed greens 2This organic, vegetarian “burger” was awesome. With avocado and white cheddar, the lentils, mushrooms, beets, cashews & bulgar wheat pattie was delicious. It was served with a side of mixed greens, roasted potatoes, and pickles. Yum!

  • Watt’s Up – Benefit

october favorites watt's up benefit muffinchanelThis is my go-to highlighter for that gorgeous winter glow. I like the way the product glides on and it blends very easily with your fingers. The highlight is natural looking, but you can definitely see it. Perfect for holiday party time or year round.

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Blog Health + Beauty

Sephora Haul – Almost VIB Rouge!

This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here

Another Sephora Haul! Yay! I actually purchased these items over the course of a few weeks. I had two other Sephora gift cards and a 20% friends and family coupon to use and I got some great things! I am so close to VIB Rouge!

Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-hour blush – Dazzled

muffinchanel sephora haul tarte amazonian clay blush dazzledI already showed a picture of this on Instagram. Instagram (Follow me! ❤) I love this color — sort of like a mauve-y rose with slight gold shimmer. I had heard lots of good things about this blush, but I decided I really wanted it after reading Vanessa’s blog: Let’s Talk Makeup. 🙂 I’ve only used it once, but so far I really like it. Review to come!

GLAMGLOW – SUPERMUD: Gift Sexy

muffinchanel sephora haul glamglow glam glow face mask clearing mud cleansing I’m super excited to try this out. I hear nothing but great things. Have any of you tried it? What did you think?

REVIEWS HERE!

Laura Mercier – Secret Brightening Powder

muffinchanel sephora haul laura mercier secret brightening powderI tried this out as a setting powder for my under eye concealer — amazing! The powder is super light; finely milled. It doesn’t settle into fine lines or make your concealer look cake. I love this so far.

Josie Maran – Moroccan Miracle Hair Duo with Argon Oil

muffinchanel sephora haul josie maran argan oil hair serum hot oilI saw this in the check out line and thought it would be nice to try this hair serum. It comes with a vile of the oil treatment which seems cool too.

Lancome – Hypnose Drama mascara

muffinchanel sephora haul lancome mascara hypnose dramaDefinitely my favorite mascara. I like how it builds without getting clumpy. The waxes seem moisturizing to the lashes and removal is super easy with my Purity cleanser.

Viktor & Rolf FlowerBomb – 250 Point Perk

muffinchanel sephora haul vib 250 point perk flower bomb flower bomb viktor rolf fragranceVIB Rouge Countdown: $34!!!

UPDATE: I unlocked VIB Rouge!

Categories
Blog Health + Beauty

Glow, Baby! Glow! | Highlighters/ Luminizers

This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here

I love a nice ethereal glow on the face during winter — really all year long, but there’s something really pretty about a nice shimmer right above the cheekbones during the holidays.

Highlighters can give your skin a more youthful appearance. Not only can you apply it to the cheekbones, but also under the eyes, on your brow bone, down your nose, right above your lip — in your cupid’s bow, and along your clavicles.

Here are a few products to use to give you that holiday glow!

High Beam – Benefit

High Beam muffinchanel

I’ve used this for years and it’s great for a pinkish, metallic silver highlight. It’s a creamy, kind of watery consistency that comes in what looks like a nail polish bottle. A LITTLE GOES A LONG WAY with High Beam. I dot a small amount onto my cheekbones, under my eyebrows, and down my nose to highlight and just blend it out.

galadriel too much highlighter muffinchanel
Too much highlighter can give you an unnatural, frosty “glow”

Since it is very metallic, you may want to mix it with your moisturizer or some foundation before applying, to give it a more natural look.

Watts Up – Benefit

watt's up benefit muffinchanel

I really like this highlighter. It comes in a gel-like creme stick — like a chap stick. The consistency is similar to a chap stick too, maybe a little grainier and not sticky, but then it turns into a powdery feel. You can apply the product directly on your face and then use the opposite end of the stick, which has a little foam pad, to blend it out. I prefer to blend it with my fingers. The color is a kind of champagne gold with shimmer — a deeper colored highlighter. This might be a good highlighter for you if you have a tan complexion or if you prefer a highlighter without a pink undertone. Application is easy and it’s very forgiving if you apply too much.

Hello Light – it Cosmetics

muffinchanel it cosmetics

This gel/creme highlighter comes in a silver compact and is very subtle. I apply this with my fingers and as it comes in contact with your fingers, the product warms and becomes very easy to smooth on. It’s a pale white/silver shimmer color that gives a very natural, youthful look. Perfect for that happy, natural glow without looking like you are wearing a highlighter.

Candlelight – Too Faced

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This highlighter is a powder that comes in a mirrored compact. With real gold flecks in this slightly yellow powder, you’re sure to get a warmer glow to your complexion. It’s slightly sheer, but in the sun, you’ll see the subtle gold glow.