Tag: skin

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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!

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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!

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

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

Valentine’s Day Love List | Gift Guide

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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.

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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! 🙂

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Blog Health + Beauty

Josie Maran Argan Milk | Review

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

I’ve been incorporating the new Josie Maran Argan Milk into my nightly skincare routine and I’m excited to review it. I love the Josie Maran Argan Oil and I love how Josie Maran Cosmetics uses organic ingredients in all of its products.

Packaging

The Josie Maran Argan Milk comes in a sleek 1oz bottle for $56. Similar to the Josie Maran Argan Oil, the Argan Milk is dispensed through a glass dropper. The construction of the rubber-squeeze end of the dropper is more solid that the older bottles of Argan Oil — the stopper in my little bottle of Argan Oil sometimes pops out of the top :/ But the Argan Milk bottle has a substantial weight and the dropper seems durable much like the new bottles of Argan Oil.




muffinchanel josie maran argan milkIngredients

Aqua (Water)** (and) Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil* (and) Propanediol** (and) Glyceryl Caprylate** (and) Glyceryl Undecylenate** (and) Phosphatidylglycerol** (and) Sodium Benzoate** (and) Xanthan Gum** (and) Citric Acid**.
*ORGANIC **NATURAL

Essentially, this Argan Milk is just Argan Oil and water. The Argan Milk doesn’t contain any parabens, sulfates, or phthalates. Yay!

Use

Apply 3 -5 drops of the Argan Milk day and night. The applicator is similar to the dropper that comes with the Argan Oil, but the dropper part is slightly more tapered off so you can really control how much is released. It’s recommended that you follow with a few drops of the Josie Maran Argan Oil/Argan Oil Light.

Consistency

MC MuffinChanel Josie Maran Argan Milk Review Application ResultsThe Argan Milk is lightweight, smooth and silky feeling. I try to lightly spread the Argan Milk all over my face with my fingers before pressing it lightly into my skin. The Argan Milk’s silkiness quickly absorbs into your skin and leaves a slightly tacky feeling. The Argan Milk absorbs like a serum, but with a slightly more creamier consistency than a gel-like consistency.




Results

The Argan Milk really preps the skin for the Argan Oil/ Argan Oil Light. It’s quick-absorbing and definitely hydrating. My skin’s texture is more even and those winter dry spots are gone! I’ve actually been using the Argan Milk on the back of my hands as a treatment the last couple of nights and following with the Argan Oil. Even my hands are looking and feeling softer! If you aren’t a fan of the Argan Oil (which is amazing! Try it if you haven’t!), then I still think the Argan Milk would be a good addition to any skincare regimen as a way to get the benefits of Argan Oil without sacrificing your regular moisturizer.

I’ve been using the Argan Milk as a night serum, but I think this would also be great for the day time as well. Again, it’s so light and absorbs quickly, that I think it would work well under makeup. Overall, I love the new Josie Maran Argan Milk. It’s the perfect way to get the added benefits of Argan Oil and long lasting hydration.

❤ Bonus: Even Svetlana loves Argan Milk!

muffinchanel svet love josie maran argan milk review

Categories
Blog Health + Beauty

2014 Nighttime Skincare Routine

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

One of my resolutions this year has been to wash my face every night. I’m usually really good about it, but we all have had those late nights where you just want to fall into bed rather than washing your face. On nights like that, I would sometimes use the Neutrogena makeup removing face wipes which seemed to get the job done. But this year, there will be no excuse for being lazy and not washing my face.

Your body repairs itself while you are sleeping; how can you expect optimum results when you are leaving a mask of the day’s dirt and bacteria on your face all night? I’m sure everyone’s heard the saying, “The best makeup is good skincare!”

To remove my makeup and cleanse my face, I start with my trusted Clarisonic Mia and Philosophy’s Purity Made Simple cleanser. I recently got the sensitive brush head for the Mia and I am really liking it.

muffinchanel-clarisonic-mia-philosophy-purity-made-simple-night-skincare1-1024x785After using the Clarisonic on my face, I’ll use my fingers and some more of the Purity to gently remove my eye makeup/cleanse my eye area.




If I have any blemishes or problem areas, I’ll use a pump of Grease Lightening from Lush. It’s called a cleanser but it works more as a toner or spot treatment for me.

muffinchanel-lush-grease-lightening-toner-cleanser-tea-tree-night-skincare-routine1-662x1024The newest addition to my nighttime skincare routine is the Josie Maran Argan Milk. It works with the Argan Oil to be an intensive hydrating treatment. Full review here.

muffinchanel-josie-maran-argan-milk-intensive-hydrating-treatment-night-skincare-argan-oil1-638x1024

I use the Josie Maran Argan Oil right behind the Argan Milk — just a few drops for your face and neck. I kind of pat/press it into my skin so it really sinks in. Check out some other ways I useArgan Oil here.

muffinchanel-josie-maran-argan-oil-night-skincare-face-neck-398x1024

Next up is my under eye area. I find that I don’t really like the feel of a night cream under my eye, but I really love the Lancome Genifique Yeux eye concentrate. It’s like a cooling serum to help de-puff and brighten the eye area. The secret is in the application because the wand has a pivoted “pearl” at the end that helps gently massage the under eye area.

muffinchanel-lancome-genifique-yeux-light-pearl-eye-illuminating-serum-night-skincare1-657x1024I then seal everything in with my favorite night cream ever — the Lancome Absolue Night Cream. It smells amazing and isn’t too thick or greasy.




muffinchanel-lancome-absolue-night-premium-night-recovery-cream-skincare-routine-1024x807Then to moisturize my chest and the rest of my body, I use Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil. This stuff has been amazing for me! Click for my review. This is the jumbo sized jar from QVC in the unscented version.

muffinchanel-josie-maran-whipped-argan-oil-ultra-hydrating-body-butter-night-skincare-1024x741

And, of course, I couldn’t forget the Dior Creme de Rose lip balm. I use this at night as a lip treatment and, as you can see, I’m going through it pretty quickly. See my full review here.

muffinchanel-dior-creme-de-rose-lip-balm-night-skincare-routine-lip-treatment-1024x486And that’s it for my nighttime skincare routine! It may seem like a lot, but skincare is important to me. No matter your age, it’s never too early to start really taking care of your skin. What’s your current skincare routine?

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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. ❤

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Blog Health + Beauty

DIOR Crème de Rose Smoothing Plumping Lip Balm | REVIEW

CREME DE ROSE PACKAGING

muffinchanel-dior-creme-de-rose-lip-balm-smoothing-plumping-2-1024x768
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here.

The Dior Creme de Rose lip balm comes in a .25oz white, circular pot inside of a small box. The white pot is quite sleek and feels substantial but not overly heavy. There is a nice filigree around the edges of the lid of the pot and the ‘CD’ initials are engraved in the center. Very simple but it has a quality feel. The lid twists on/off and when you first open it, there is a thin protective layer of plastic covering the balm.

muffinchanel-dior-creme-de-rose-lip-balm-smoothing-plumping-4-1024x768There’s always the concern of potted balms not being hygienic because you’re dipping your fingers into the same pot and then smearing it on your lips, but I think it’s fine as long as you’re keeping your hands clean. You really should avoid touching your face at all unless your hands are clean but sometimes that’s just not practical. In the end, I’m more concerned with the results, so back to the review!



ROSE SCENT

The rose scent is amazing; not synthetic. I love roses and this smells just like the flower, but it’s subtle. I know some people aren’t a fan of rose scents so this may not be the product for you. The scent does, however, seem to wear off after 15-20 minutes.

BALM TEXTURE

The balm is light pink but is sheer on the lips. When you open the pot, the surface of the balm is quite firm; it’s like a barrier on the top because the balm is more creamy once you break through that layer. I don’t recommend just ramming your finger through the top layer though. Just keep using it like you’d use any balm, lightly rubbing your finger over the top. Otherwise, you’ll just end up wasting product and creating an unattractive crater in the balm.

The balm is thick, but not sticky or greasy. It feels smooth and silky on the lips — less waxy than Chapstick, but thicker and creamier than Rosebud Salve.

APPLICATION

You can use the Creme de Rose balm as a treatment — applying a thicker layer at night to the lips and area around the lips. When I wake up, my lips are always soft and feel hydrated; it really soaks into the lips.

Use as an everyday balm. Creme de Rose has SPF 10, so your newly soft lips will be protected from the UV rays. The balm penetrates deep down into your lips so you don’t need to reapply often to get that moisturized feeling.

Or you can use the balm as a primer for your lipstick or lipgloss. I like to use the Benetint lip stain on my lips and then apply the Creme de Rose on top. My lips feel great, but I have a festive red shining through without having to think about reapplying color throughout the night.

MY RESULTS

muffinchanel-dior-creme-de-rose-lip-balm-smoothing-plumping-3-1024x768I’ve been loving this balm! During these winter months, my lips have been smooth and soft which is amazing for me. My lips were always peeling or cracking before and I definitely didn’t help the situation by peeling the skin; gross, I know. My lips seemed to be really sensitive too. I’d been on the hunt for a hydrating/healing lip product and used all types of drugstore products, even medicated products, from Blistex to BabyLips with only temporary relief. So, the Creme de Rose lip balm definitely makes good on the “smoothing” claim.




As far as “plumping” goes, I don’t see my lips looking fuller, but I do feel that slight tingling feeling (very slight) that you feel with those plumping lip glosses. If anything, I can see how a healthier, more moisturized lip could appear fuller and plump.

I recommend Dior Creme de Rose to anyone who has dry, chapped lips or someone just looking for a nice hydrating lip treatment. I’ll continue to use it for many years to come.

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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! ❤

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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!

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Blog Health + Beauty

MARC JACOBS BEAUTY | Genius Gel Super-Charged Foundation REVIEW

muffinchanel genius gel marc jacobs 22 bisque light reviewThis post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here

Back in August, I told you about my Sephora haul where I picked up the MARC JACOBS BEAUTY Genius Gel Super-Charged Foundation for my birthday. I’ve had a couple of months to use the product and I’m ready to give a review!

First off, there is NO SPF in this foundation and I am all about protecting my skin from the sun’s UV rays. I’ll use a sunscreen (usually Neutrogena’s dry touch SPF) as a moisturizer before applying the foundation.

Cost

$48 for 1oz. Kind of pricy, I think, for what you really are getting.

Packagingmuffinchanel genius gel marc jacobs 22 bisque light top off

The foundation comes in a sleek glass bottle with a shiny black cap that removes to reveal a pump dispenser. I always prefer a pump because it allows me to control the amount of foundation I use and it’s more hygienic than an open bottle or compact. The bottle is very substantial, and I’m sure that it’s part of that high price tag, but it’s heavy and kind of bulky if you were to travel with it.

Consistency

The formula really is different than other liquid foundations. The “gel” is almost smooth like a primer. It’s still runny like a liquid, but thicker and very light weight. The gel does make it nice to apply though and a little goes a long way. One pump can give me light coverage for my face and neck.

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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