Tag: hair

Categories
Blog Lifestyle

Getting Ready for a Special Event

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

When you have a special event to attend, whether it be a birthday party, a graduation, a school dance, a wedding, or just a big date, you want to look your best.

Big Event Countdown!

1 month:

  • If you aren’t already, get into some kind of fitness routine. Exercise will help you feel healthy and energized. Nothing gives you that radiant glow like a healthy body, so go for a walk everyday or step it up and play a sport or go for a run. When your body is more fit and healthy, you’ll feel and look your best.
  • Diet is key to looking and feeling great from the inside out. Be sure to get your fair share of fruits and vegetables, or try a fun juice cleanse! Don’t forget to drink plenty of water and avoid processed foods.

2 weeks:

This is the time to knock out some of the easy things!

  • Hair cut/color – If you’re in need of a cut or a trim, now is the time to do it. Freshly cut hair can sometimes look too harsh or you may not be used to styling it. Getting your cut or color done two weeks before the big day gives you time to get used to/fix your lovely locks.
  • Plan your hair and makeup look. Don’t wait until the last minute; try out hairstyles and makeup looks that you’re curious about. Will you have your make up professionally done? You still will want to know the overall type of look you want. Practice makes perfect, so experiment and have fun. Once you have the look you love, take a picture. You will want to refer to it leading up to your big day.
  • Plan your outfit! Just like with your hair, make sure you have your entire outfit ready (accessories included); if not, now is a good time to grab a friend and get some inspiration from your favorite store (or even you friend’s closet).

1 week

Getting so close to the event! So exciting!

  • Eyebrow waxing! If you’ve never gotten your eyebrows waxed at a Benefit Brow Bar, I definitely recommend it. Waxing your eyebrows professionally will ensure the perfect shape for your face and help define your features. If you have any redness or bumps, it’ll have gone by the big day.
  • Face masks will help exfoliate the skin and even skin tone. Try the GlamGlow SuperMud or TingleExfoliate for amazing results. Repeat every few days for super glowy skin.
  • Finalize your outfit, hair, and makeup. Make sure you have everything you need to walk out the door to your special event.
  • Deep-condition your hair. Using a 5 minute hair mask can help your hair feel soft and look shiny.
  • Lips scrub & condition your lips. I love the Fresh Sugar Scrub with the Dior Creme de Rose lip balm.

2 days

  • Manicure/Pedicure. Freshly painted nails will really pull the look together. I like to get a pedicure at a salon because it’s super relaxing and I love the fun designs & colors to choose from but I usually like to do my manicure with my Sephora Gel Shine kit. French manicures are my go-to for any special event.
  • Teeth whitening is an easy way to brighten your look. I really like the Crest whitening strips because they are quick and do a great job brightening your smile.
  • Biore pore strips can help to remove stubborn blackheads and reduce pore appearance. I like to exfoliate and then wash like usual with my Clarisonic Mia before using the pore strips.

1 day

  • Face mask/ spot treatment. Target any blemishes with a soothing acne gel. I really like the Grease Lightening Cleanser from Lush. Or just dab on a small amount of any face mask onto troublesome spots.
  • Double check that you have everything you’ll need for the event; from head to toe.

The Big Day

  • Shave your legs and moisturize. Soft and smooth skin will help you feel great on the big day
  • Don’t forget the deodorant! The final stages of getting picture perfect for your special event can cause you to sweat and stress, but with a good deodorant/antipersperant, and least you’ll smell great and feel fresh.
  • Prep your skin. Primers and serums are your best friend. They’ll help your makeup stay put and keep your skin looking bright.
  • Use a makeup setting spray like the Urban Decay All Nighter. 
  • A splash of your favorite perfume is all you need before you walk out the door!

You’re all set for your special day! Let me know your tips for getting picture perfect for your big event in the comments or tag me in a picture on Instagram (@muffinchanel). I’d love to see all of your looks!

Categories
Blog Health + Beauty

Tarte Amazonian Clay CC Primer + Airbrush Foundation | Review

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

I picked up some Tarte goodies during the VIB Rouge Spring Social at Sephora and I’ve had some time to use the products to give a proper review. I purchased the Tarte Amazonian Clay Airbrush Foundation in the shade Light-Medium Neutral, the CC Primer in the shade Light, and the Airbuki brush.

Routine

I have been using the CC Primer and the Airbrush Foundation everyday I wear makeup since I purchased them. I start by prepping my face with sunscreen (usually the Josie Maran Daily Argan Moisturizer) and then I’ll use the Tarte CC Primer as a base for the powder foundation. I lightly buff on 1-2 layers of the Airbrush Foundation and I’m out the door. It’s all really fast and easy.

CC Primer

muffinchanel tarte cosmetics review Amazonian Clay Foundation Airbrush Airbuki CC Primer Review

This primer is different than others I’ve used. It comes in a chubby tube and twists up like a lipstick. It’s more like a light foundation/cover stick than a silky primer. The POREfessional by Benefit, for example, is super silky and blurs away the appearance of pores. The Tarte CC Primer is divided into four sections, two with the “foundation” color, one with a green color corrector, and one with a pinkish purple color corrector. I just apply the CC Primer directly to my face and blend it out with my fingers.




The CC Primer evens out your complexion, neutralizes hyper pigmentation and gives sheer/light coverage. The CC Primer is perfect alone for running a quick trip to the grocery store, yoga day, or just a “no-makeup” makeup look. The primer makes a perfect base for the Airbrush Foundation.

Airbrush Foundation + Airbuki Brush

muffinchanel tarte cosmetics review Amazonian Clay Foundation Airbrush Airbuki CC Primer Review

First off, the Airbuki brush is super soft! It’s amazing and I haven’t seen any hairs falling out or anything. It’s the perfect applicator for this Airbrush foundation but probably would work well with other types of mineral foundations as well.muffinchanel tarte cosmetics review Amazonian Clay Foundation Airbrush Airbuki CC Primer Review

The Airbrush Foundation comes in a sleek container with a bamboo screw off lid. What is unique about this powder foundation is the mesh liner/netting between the mouth of the jar and the product.

muffinchanel tarte cosmetics review Amazonian Clay Foundation Airbrush Airbuki CC Primer ReviewThe lid actually has a little knob that, when screwed closed, keeps the mineral powder from escaping the netting. It’s great because it really helps control how much powder comes out and prevents you from wasting. Unlike other mineral foundations, you don’t need to invert the powder through the sifter and swirl/tap your brush to load the powder. The Tarte Airbuki is made to fit perfectly over the mesh lining. You simply press your brush into the net and get the perfect amount of powder on your brush; not swirling or tapping needed.

muffinchanel tarte cosmetics review Amazonian Clay Foundation Airbrush Airbuki CC Primer Review reviewThis design is awesome, especially for travel since you won’t have to worry about all the powder getting out from under the liner. I like to gently press the powder into my face and then buff it out to blend. The mineral powder gives a beautiful airbrushed finish and feels lightweight.




muffinchanel tarte cosmetics review Amazonian Clay Foundation Airbrush Airbuki CC Primer ReviewMy skin is dry/normal and when I first used the Airbrush Foundation, I noticed that the powder clung to the drier parts of my face and made the area look flaky and bad. That’s where the CC Primer really helps me — the Primer either makes those areas less dry or creates such a smooth base that I haven’t had that problem since targeted those dry areas more with the Primer.

The Airbrush Foundation is long-wearing although I haven’t won it more than 10 hours. I do find though, that it starts to look even better as the day goes on. I love the fresh-faced airbrushed look it gives after first application, but as the day wears on, it seems to really melt into your skin and gives me a clean, healthy glow. I love it.

The foundation is build able up to medium coverage, but even at that medium level, your skin still looks like skin and not a cake mask. I have freckles and I really want my foundation to even out my complexion and make me look radiant but not cover my freckles and make me look unnatural. This Tarte Airbrush Foundation does just that! I definitely recommend this to everyone!

Categories
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!

Categories
Blog Health + Beauty

10 Spring Break Beauty Tips

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

It’s still snowing in some parts of the US, but in just a few days it will officially be spring! Which means that, for some of you, Spring Break is here or is just around the corner!

As you dig your bikinis and flip flops out of storage, it’s important to remember these Spring Break Beauty Tips whether you’re going to Cancun or hanging out with your family by the beach!

1. Drink plenty of water. Water is your best friend. It’s important to stay hydrated especially when out in the sun for extended periods of time. But also, if you’ll be traveling for your break, nothing will help your body acclimate faster than staying nice and hydrated.

2. Give your skin a break + let it breathe a little during your vacation. Try out some “no make up” looks if you choose to wear makeup. Otherwise, go for a natural sunscreen + chapstick only dewy look.

3. Try a fresh and fruity cleanser. Clean & Clear has this oil free pink grapefruit foaming scrub. I love the way this cleanser smells; so clean and fruity! It’s awesome and has these gentle exfoliating beads that help smooth away rough spots. It also contains salicylic acid which helps clear my skin up!

4. Use Sunscreen. Lots of it. Everyone wants to come back from spring break with a nice healthy glow, but be mindful about how long you’re in the sun. Sunburns are serious so apply a UVA/UVB sunscreen often and wear a hat or stay in a partially shaded area. Make sure to use it on your face and body.

5. Try some no-heat hair styles. If you’ll be in the sun but out of the water, opt for some fun braided, no-heat hairstyles. Braids are a soft, feminine way to keep your hair out of your face while giving you a nice, put-together but beachy look.

6. Try some new hair ties! Hold your braids together with cute, fun hair ribbons. If you haven’t used these ribbon hair ties before, definitely give them a try. They prevent breakage and come in a variety of colors. Check out some of the different varieties: here, here, and here.

7. Lock in the moisture in your hair. The sun + chlorinated or salty water can dry out your hair. If you’ll be in and out of water, try first to wet your hair and coat the ends with conditioner to lock in moisture.

8. Exfoliate. Pre, during, and post Spring Break. Exfoliating is the best way to keep your skin super soft and vacation ready. Before you embark on your journey, exfoliating will help you apply sunless tanning lotion evenly and prevent streaking. During your excursion, exfoliating will keep your skin from peeling or flaking from being out in the sun. And once you’re back home, it will help keep you looking glowy and fresh! I like to use the brown sugar and oatmeal body scrub from the San Francisco Bath Salt Company.

9. Get a Mani/Pedi. Nothing says Spring Break more than fun bright nail color! I like neon and bright pink nail polishes. Bright nail color can help you look extra tan. I really like Collide by Ilamasqua.

10. Hydrate your skin with an After Sun Lotion. I really like this lotion from Hawaiian Tropic it has aloe and feels nice and cooling on your skin after a long day in the sun. Your skin will thank you.

What are your plans for Spring Break? Share your Beauty Tips in the comments!

Categories
Blog Health + Beauty Lifestyle

Benefit Brow Bar Experience

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

I love a nice, thick eyebrow. I fill my eyebrows in with the ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS Beauty Express For Brows and Eyes and I’m usually pretty pleased with how they turn out, but I haven’t ever really had them “shaped”.

Filled in with Anastasia Beauty Express
Surprise! Lots of stray hairs; not a very “clean” look + my “brow-hawk” ^

I’ve attempted to use the stencils in the Anastasia kit but they never worked for me. I’ve drawn the lines for my “perfect ratio”, but was always reluctant to tweeze in case I took too much and messed up my face. So, I left my caterpillars alone and I told myself that I was “growing them out so I could get them professionally done”.

Filled in with Anastasia Beauty Express
Filled in with Anastasia Beauty Express

So, when I started hearing more about the Benefit Brow Bar, I thought this would be a good time for me to clean up my brows and get them professionally shaped. I’ve had my brows waxed at the nail salon many years ago and I thought it turned out alright, but they just cleaned up the stray hairs; they didn’t map out the best shape for my face.

There’s a Brow Bar in a nearby Macy’s and an Ulta, but I opted to go to the one in Ulta because the Macy’s one had a few bad reviews. I’m all about the reviews; I always check places that I’m interested in going! If any of you are the same way, I hope this experience review helps you out! 🙂

muffinchanel benefit ulta brow bar experience review




So, I go over to the Benefit section of Ulta and two estheticians are already with clients. One of the girls asked me if I had an appointment, and I told her no & asked if they took walk-ins. She said that she could take me in 5 minutes. So I looked around for a while before she called me over.

muffinchanel benefit ulta brow bar experience review

I sat in the chair and told her that I just wanted a brow wax. They also do brow tinting and lip waxing. She had me sign a waiver that basically says that Benefit is not responsible if you breakout or get a rash from the wax and that you acknowledge that you aren’t taking accutane or using retinol.

Brow Mapping

She walked me through the process since this was my first time and cleansed by brows with a cotton ball and some solution. She then used the Brow Mapping technique to find that perfect ratio for my face and drew lines with a brown makeup crayon. I looked at the outline in the mirror and she asked if I liked the shape or if I wanted my brows to be thinner. I told her I wanted a fuller brow and she told me that she was going to wax everywhere outside of the lines she drew. She then used a spoolie to comb all of my brow hairs up to trim them with scissors and then the same thing after brushing them down.

Waxing

muffinchanel benefit brow bar ulta macy's review experience before after

The wax was a pearly white color and she applied it with a thin wooden applicator. Everything was really sanitary and clean. She applied a cloth to the waxed area, pulled the skin taught, and pulled the cloth away. It didn’t hurt but it surprised me at first. The rest of the waxing was easy since I knew what to expect.

Cleaning/Soothing

After the wax, she used a cleanser to help remove any excess wax. She applied Almond Oil to help soothe and calm the redness & then she put on a moisturizer. She really let everything soak in and gave my face some time to relax.




Tweezing

She used a spoolie to comb through the hairs and help her get to the stray hairs that needed tweezing. There wasn’t much to be tweezed after the wax.

Styling

After everything, she used a concealer crayon above and below my brows, some foundation to help cover up the redness, and filled in my brows so that I wouldn’t look like I’d just gotten them done while running the rest of my errands.

Results

muffinchanel benefit brow bar ulta macy's review experience before after

Overall, I am super happy with the way they turned out and I will definitely go back. I knew that brows really framed your face and could change your look, but I didn’t realize what I was missing! My eyebrows look so clean and sharp now; it’s awesome! So happy I went! The service at the Benefit Brow Bar was great. I really appreciate how they take the time to explain each step of the process & how they touch up your makeup before you leave.

Categories
Blog Lifestyle

Valentine’s Day Love List | Gift Guide

muffinchanel-2014-valentines-day-gift-guide1-1024x1024

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

1. Starbucks Gift Card | Starbucks, various denominations

If your Valentine likes Starbucks, gift cards are the way to go. They even have cute, Valentine’s Day themed cards online and in-store. Even just $5 is super sweet to give to school friends, family or a co-worker.

2. Veranda Place Bee Wristlet | Kate Spade, $98

This wristlet is so cute! Pink with bows? You can’t go wrong. It’s great because it can hold your cards & money and be a sort of on-the-go wallet or throw it in your purse to help you stay organized. Perfect for your sister or best friend….or yourself!

3. togoPower Boost Keychain | Photojojo, $40

This keychain holds up to 1.5 hrs of extra battery life for your phone. It’s small and fits on your key ring. This would be great for anyone, even the guy in your life. A boost of power can help you stay connected with your Valentine when they need it most.

4. Valentine’s Day socks | Nordstrom, $10

Everyone loves a cute pair of socks. These pink, heart socks are sweet and cozy. Perfect for your sister or school friends. Tie them up with a ribbon and some candy & you’re good to go!

5. Too Faced Plump Gloss Glow | Sephora, $42

This set from Sephora comes with a mascara, nude lipstick, and a heart shaped pink blush. Very Valentine’s Day appropriate! The blush looks nice and rosy with a shimmer highlighter built in. A great  Valentine’s Day gift for the makeup lover in your life. 

6. Rue iPhone 5 Case | Marc Jacobs, $48

This iPhone case is so fun and pink! With a black cat with white mascara detail around the eyes, this gift is perfect for your best friend or sister who like trendy things or anything Marc Jacobs. The case bulges in certain areas around the phone so you’ll always have a good grip!

7. “Love Edge” Stud Earrings | Marc Jacobs, $42

Sleek, simple heart earrings are perfect for a casual day or a romantic Valentine’s Day evening. Delicate & dainty and perfect for the girly girl in your life.

8. Hanalei Triangles iPhone 5 Case | Pura Vida Bracelets, $20

This case is fun and beachy. Perfect for your friend who isn’t really into Valentine’s, but you still want to get them something. It has a slightly romantic feel with the layers of colors, but it’s perfect to give year round. Check the site for other fun case options!

9. Heart Compact | Marc Jacobs, $7

This mirrored compact is super cute to give to your teammates, school friends or anyone who would like a heart shaped mirror. At just $7, it’s a cute gift for everyone.

10. Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb Gift Trio | Sephora, $120

My favorite fragrance of all time! Flowerbomb is a super floral scent that just makes you happy when you smell it. This set comes with the fragrance, a shower gel, and a body cream. And if you get it from Sephora with your Beauty Insider card, you’ll earn triple points. This gift is great for a girlfriend/wife.

11. Josie Maran Argan Matchmaker Complexion Kit | Sephora, $68

This set is perfect for your mother, your sister, or anyone who likes makeup/skincare. The set comes with a bottle of the Josie Maran Argan Oil Light, Cheek Gelée, Matchmaker Powder Foundation, and Matchmaker Serum Foundation. It’s limited edition and there are three color options. 

12. Dior Creme de Rose Lip Balm | Sephora, $27

Love this lip balm! It’s amazing! Perfect for the bestie or family member in your life who cares about skincare or lip products. This balm will heal chapped, winter lips and can be used as a primer, on its own, or as a treatment. Plus, it’s sheer pink and romantic in its embelished white case.

Categories
Blog Health + Beauty

Josie Maran Complexion Care Package | Review

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

I’ve had some time to get familiar with the Josie Maran Complexion Care Package that I got from QVC. This set was such a great value with five full-sized products for under $60.

Argan Tinted Moisturizer

josie-maran-muffinchanel-tinted-moisturizer-argan-oil-review-light-1024x512There are four color choices with the Argan Tinted Moisturizer (Fair, Light, Medium, Dark), I picked up the Light 1 color.

muffinchanel-josie-maran-argan-tinted-moisturizer-review-light-11-1024x337The Tinted Moisturizer has SPF 30 and really evens out the skin tone without looking greasy or heavy. Similar to a BB Cream, the Tinted Moisturizer blends best with the fingers. A little bit goes a long way and it settles into the skin to give a nice finished look.

There is a yellow undertone to the Light 1 color I got which works to neutralize redness. Coverage is light and makes skin look dewey which may look over shiny if you have oily skin.

Argan Creamy Concealer Crayon

josie-maran-creamy-chubby-argan-stick-muffinchanel-review1-1024x363Your color selection for the Tinted Moisturizer also dictates your Concealer Crayon color in this set. I’ve never used any kind of concealer crayon before, so I was excited to see what this argan-infused one would be like.




muffinchanel-josie-maran-concealer-stick-crayon-review-light1-1024x1024I know other concealers I’ve used in the past have seemed drying or chalky; settling into fine lines under my eyes. This concealer is far from that; it’s very creamy and glides on easily. For me, however, it’s a little too creamy. Maybe I’m just using too much, but it seemed to slip all over my under eye area and eventually crease in those fine lines.

It would probably work best with a light setting powder, but if I’m going for a quick, fresh-faced look, I don’t want to have to set everything with a powder.

Infinity Cream Intensive Creamy Oil

josie-maran-infinity-cream-review-muffinchanel-1024x512There are many uses listed for the Argan Infinity Cream — from smoothing down fly-aways to an intensive hand cream. The Infinity Cream seems to be a more concentrated version of the Argan Oil. It has a Vaseline/petroleum jelly feeling even though it does not contain any of that. The Infinity Cream is all organic and contains 100% pure Argan Oil.

muffinchanel-josie-maran-infinity-cream-argan-review1-1024x512I like to use this cream on my cuticles, knees & elbows, and on my hands. It absorbs nicely and hydrates dry flaky areas.

100% Pure Argan Oil

muffinchanel-josie-maran-argan-oil-review-1024x1024I love the pure Argan Oil. Click the link ^ for the ways I like to use it. Definitely my favorite product in the kit.




Argan Color Stick in Dreamy Pink

The Argan Color stick is the perfect on-the-go color stick. It’s compact and infused with argan oil to give your skin a nice, healthy rosy glow. Definitely would repurchase this.

muffinchanel-josie-maran-dreamy-pink-argan-color-stick-review-1024x512Because it’s infused with argan oil, the color stick was quite creamy when applied to the cheeks or lips. It appears bright at first, but it blends nicely into the skin for a natural looking flush.

Have you used any of these Josie Maran products? Let me know what you think! 🙂

Categories
Blog Health + Beauty

Josie Maran Complexion Care Package

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

I was so excited when I saw the Josie Maran Complexion Care Package on QVC. The set comes with 5 full sized products:

muffinchanel-josie-maran-argan-oil-5-piece-complexion-care-package-qvc-1024x750

  • 1.7-fl oz Argan Tinted Moisturizer
  • 0.1-oz Argan Creamy Concealer Crayon
  • 2.2-fl oz Infinity Cream Intensive Creamy Oil
  • 1.7-fl oz 100% Pure Argan Oil
  • 0.55-oz Argan Color Stick in Dreamy Pink

I already love the Argan Oil, but I was interested in trying some of the cosmetics. The set was the Today’s Special Value when I ordered it, so I got everything for $59 + tax/shipping (retail value: $156). I’ll get a few more uses out of everything before I do a review.

UPDATE: Full review here!

The packaging is nice and I’m pleased with the value. I’d never tried the Infinity Cream or any of the Josie Maran makeup.

muffinchanel-josie-maran-argan-oil-5-piece-complexion-care-package-qvc4-1024x893muffinchanel-josie-maran-argan-oil-5-piece-complexion-care-package-qvc2-813x1024Each of the cosmetics is infused with Josie’s signature Argan Oil and all of the products are cruelty free and paraben free. ❤

Categories
Blog Lifestyle

Holiday Travel Essentials | Beauty

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

Many of you may be traveling for the upcoming holidays. It’s always fun to go somewhere new or see friends & family, but it can be difficult deciding what to pack or just carrying everything you want.

I always try to pack just the “essentials” so my bags aren’t loaded down and I’ll have room in case I get a few souvenirs. You really need to ask yourself what you want; try to only bring products that have multiple uses. For example: with makeup, see if you can find a blush you like that can double as an eyeshadow. Or a dark eyeshadow that you can also use to fill in your brows. With beauty items, it can be a little more tricky. You don’t want to neglect your skin while you are on holiday, but you don’t want to carry your full sized bottles either.

This is where those sample sizes from Sephora or little mini bottles of products come in handy. I always save the samples for traveling because they hardly take up any room and you can just discard them when you are done. If you don’t have the sample sizes of the product you want to bring with you, there are always those mini travel bottles you can buy at the drugstore.

Here’s my travel makeup bag:

muffinchanel makeup holiday travel essentials genius gel marc jacobs naked palette urban decay laura mercier secret brightening powder they're real mascara lancome hypnoses drama star the porefessional prier face brushes mack amazonian clay blush tarte flowerbomb viktor rolf mars eyelash primer watts up highlighter fresh lip target bag

This bag is actually a clutch from the Marc Jacobs collaboration with Target last year; it’s a shiny metallic pouch that’s fairly large and fits all you see here ^ very nicely.

Here’s my skincare and toiletries bag:

muffin chanel victorias secret clarisonic mia samples lancome genefique vissionaire neutrogena sunscreen josie maran argan oil light 100% altoids toothbrush beauty essentials makeup bumble and shampoo conditioner serum purity philosophyThis bag was a gift with purchase at Victoria’s Secret a few years ago. It’s metallic gold, but has vertical pink stripes inside and it’s pretty large.

What’s inside?

Let me know if you have any holiday travel plans coming up and what your must-have beauty travel essentials are! ❤

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Categories
Blog Health + Beauty

10 Ways To Use | Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil

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

There are so many ways to use Josie Maran’s 100% Pure Argan Oil. I received a small bottle of the jasmine infused argan oil last year and I loved it! This year, we got a huge MEGA bottle from QVC — 6oz.! Yay!

Continue reading “10 Ways To Use | Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil”
Categories
Blog Lifestyle

Top 10 – July Favorites

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

1. Victor & Rolf – Flowerbomb

muffinchanel july favorites 2013 flowerbombMy favorite fragrance of all time. Flowerbomb makes me happy. I first tried the $25 $29 (prices have gone up!) rollerball from Sephora and fell in love. Try it if you haven’t already — very strong floral notes! Amazing!

2.  Lancome Star Bronzer

muffinchanel july favorites 2013 lancome bronzerLancome’s Star Bronzer comes in six shimmer shades and three matte shades. I use my matte bronzer in shade 02 Sunkiss for slight conturing. This bronzer isn’t too dark or muddy and will look natural on many different complexions.

3. Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes

muffinchanel july favorites 2013 neutrogena-makeup-remover-cleansing-towelettesI love these cleansing wipes. With these, there is no excuse to not remove my makeup before going to bed. They remove all of your makeup and don’t leave your face feeling oily. The refill packs come with 25 wipes for about $4.50 – $7, depending on sales and where you shop. I’ve seen a 4 x 25ct. + 1x 14ct. at Costco for about $11! Best deal ever if you can get it.

Of course, it’s best to actually wash your face, but on those nights when you might be too tired,  these will do the trick. You never want to go to bed with your makeup on!

4. Eggs Benedict

muffinchanel july favorites 2013 eggs benedictI’m not much of a “breakfast” person — I eat in the morning, but I don’t like “breakfast” foods….except for eggs benedict! Definitely my favorite breakfast-y food!

5. Very Berry Hibiscus Refreshers – Starbucks

muffinchanel july favorites 2013 very berry hibiscus refresherI only recently have started drinking these again. I’ve talked about these before, and I still enjoy them every once in a while. Make your own!!

6. LUSH baths

muffinchanel july favorites 2013 lush bathNothing is more relaxing or makes me feel cleaner than a LUSH bath. So perfect! My favorite combination is The Comforter and a Sex Bomb bath bomb. I love LUSH! See my other LUSH posts HERE, HERE, and HERE

7. Hair, Skin, and Nails pills – Andrew Lessman

I can see my nails growing and staying strong when I take these, but if I skip just one day, my nails will break. :/ But these, in combination with my B-12s help my nails to grow and stay strong. I don’t really notice a difference in my hair or skin, but I’m sure it’s helping in some way. These pills are packed with vitamins and biotin. You can get them from HSN.com.

8. Sam’s Town – The Killers

muffinchanel july favorites 2013 andrew-lessman-healthy-hair-skin-and-nails-720-caps-d-20130710101229687277028muffinchanel july favorites 2013 samstowncoverI loved The Killer’s – Battle Born, so I decided to re-discover some of their older music. I’ve been listening to Sam’s Town a lot lately and I love it.

9. Target App for iPhone

muffinchanel july favorites 2013 target appI love going to Target — I can get everything I want in one stop. Plus, it’s where I was able to find my Fitbit Flex when it was backordered online. Target has everything and the Target App has coupons for some of those items. Some is better than none! What’s awesome is that they can scan the coupon directly from your phone — no clipping coupons or having to remember to bring them when you shop.

10. Monster’s University

muffinchanel july favorites 2013 monsters-university-2013-wallpaper-hd-for-desktop-680x382I really enjoyed this prequel to Monster’s Inc. Disney and Pixar make the best animated movies! And what’s even cooler is the website they made for the movie – http://monstersuniversity.com/edu/. How fun!

What have you been enjoying this July?

See my favorites from last month!  (Top 10 – June Favorites)

See my August Favorites HERE

Categories
Blog Health + Beauty

Miss Jessie’s Curly Pudding – First Impressions

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.”muffinchanel miss jessie curly pudding review

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.

Categories
Blog Health + Beauty

Summer Hair Don’t Care – 5 Tips to Protect Your Hair

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.

muffinchanel summer beauty tips hair protect hair journey grow

This detangling comb from The Body Shop is $7.

muffinchanel summer beauty tips hair protect hair journey grow

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

muffinchanel summer beauty tips hair protect hair journey growLike 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.

muffinchanel summer beauty tips hair protect hair journey growSleepnbeauty.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.

muffinchanel summer beauty tips hair protect hair journey growThey’re basically an elastic ribbon, tied in a knot. You could make your own or you can buy them from a number of retailers.

Lucky Girl Hair Ties

Sephora

Goody

6 Degrees Hair Ties

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.

muffinchanel summer beauty tips hair protect hair journey growObviously, 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.