So it's summer, and I'm studying for the bar... so of course I have been spending time online window shopping for things that I don't need. Here are something things that I am currently lusting over (the pictures are hyper-linked):
Men's style briefcase bags
Nike+ Watch
Necklaces
Peony Print
What do you think of this kind of post? Let me know in the comments below :)
*some affiliate links used*
Saturday, June 30, 2012
Sunday, June 24, 2012
And Then I Found A Box Of Empties When I Was Unpacking
Just when you thought I was done using up products... I found a bunch of empties that I forgot I had saved for posting on this blog but didn't have time to write about before I moved. Funny how moving can swallow up items and you just forget about them until you finally unpack everything haha.
1. Bath Basics 3 in 1 in Tangerine
Talk about a giant bottle of bubble bath right?! I got this at Rite Aid aaaages ago and, if I recall correctly, this honkin' thing only cost $5! What a fantastic deal! With prices and sizes like these I didn't have to be skimpy and could have a heavenly excessively bubble filled bath :) This foams up and bubbles up quite nicely, and you can smell the scent while your tub is filling, and somewhat while you are soaking. This is just an all around good bubble bath, just nothing spectacular. Buy again? At $5, and with good performance, definitely. When you think about it, those expensive bubble baths seem silly even if they are a little better than this because with this being cheaper you don't have to be skimpy. Also, I loved using this with some Coconut Oil added into my bath to make it moisturizing. Now, when you consider the price of coconut oil and this together... you really don't need to splurge on expensive bubble baths :P
2. Mainstays Candle in Wild Honeysuckle
This is a $1 candle from Walmart, so I don't know why I was expecting much. Needless to say, this candle was a total let down. The only time you can smell the scent is when you sniff it in the store, never could smell it when it was burning. Not even when I was hovering right over it! These could be nice for light purposes like in the summer at night with a bonfire, because then you don't really care about the scent, and $1 would be a good price for something of that purpose. Would I buy again? Never again for room scent purposes. Will keep it in mind for unscented candle purposes though because the little jar looks nice and the label is easy to take off.
3. Lip Vitamins Lip Balm in Peach Mango
You might recall my hauling this from Claire's for a whopping $1 on sale! For it only costing $1 I didn't expect wonders, but I was super surprised and got great results! It was actually extremely moisturizing, almost like a lip butter or something. At first I thought the oval shape of the tube was a little weird, but that I found myself loving that aspect of it too! Buy again? Really considering it! Next time I spot one of those Claire's 10 for 10 deals, I might have to stock up on these and check out some other flavors. Watch me never find it again though, haha. Anyone know anywhere that carries these chapsticks other than Claire's?
4. Tretinoin Cream
My opinion hasn't changed since the first time I emptied a tube of this: see this post. 2 down 4 to go.
5. Deep Sea Cosmetics Hand and Body Lotion Sample
So this was one of those samples that those kiosk guys at the mall hand you and then try to talk you into buying their product. I, however, am the queen of playing such players and take the sample when they hand it to me without slowing down my pace and just keep walking. If you don't stop and don't hesitate they are completely disarmed and know that you are totally calling them out, haha. The guy even tried a section tactic of saying I dropped something, so I turned my head, while still walking, then he laughed because he knew I wasn't fooled and gave me a wink, almost like it was for respect to a fellow player, hahahahaha. Anyway, on to the product itself. This lotion is nothing special. It smells soapy, which I don't really hate, but was expecting something more "exotic" or something since it claims to be from the Dead Sea. Buy full size? Not a chance. Probably too expensive for what it is, plus don't want to deal with those kiosk people, haha.
6. Nivea Essentially Enriched Daily Lotion
This lotion was just fine. I got it one sale at Target, so that was nice since it was about half price (and who will complain about half price Nivea?). I found that it was actually really nice and moisturizing! I did think that it could be a little greasy, but I was willing to deal with they because it moisturized so nicely. I does have a kind of medicinal powdery smell that reminds me of nurses and hospitals for some reason, haha. But again? I might, though it being on sale maybe they are discontinuing it? Definitely not running to get it right away because I am always wanting to try new body lotions. If I can find something that gives the results of this lotion but with a nice smell, and maybe less of a greasy feeling, then we'll be talking!
7. It's a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product Travel Sized
I will admit I was a little underwhelmed by this product. I am super glad I got to try it out at half price though, since I am ALWAYS hearing about this product, so of course wanted to try it out myself. I didn't think this did anything spectacular, but I didn't hate it. I did think it helped a little with moisture and taming frizz. However, I don't really like the smell. While I don't think I would buy this product again, I am open to considering other products in the line, especially if those smell better, haha.
8. Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum Travel Sized
Now this is a GEM of a product, and I practically got this for pennies when I got it half off like the Its's a 10. I think this cost me a whopping $2.25. That, my friends, is a great price to sample a product at this size! Birtchbox, take note! I think this would be a great thing to put in a future box! haha. Anyway, on to my opinion. I loved this. Even though its a serum, I never felt like this was thick or sticky, just absorbed into my hair without looking like I used to much! I also loved how light this was on my hair while still giving great frizz fighting results! And, can I also mention the smell? It is divine! Buy the full size? I am REALLY considering it, but the price tag is holding me back. Going to use up more of what I have, and maybe try some cheaper alternatives first before biting that bullet. Hey, even if I don't find a cheaper alternative, they will just give me a better appreciation for this product and all it can do, haha!
9. Glade Candle in Cool Serenity
I have reviewed many a candle, and quite a few Glade ones at this point to really know what I want from a candle at this point. The smell was fine, but a little mediocre and nothing special. The burn wasn't clean, but the scent did emanate a decent amount form the candle while it burned. Buy again? Not this scent, but probably will still buy Glade candles, even thought they aren't my favorite. The price is just good for something that doesn't last a super long time.
10. Cortizone 10 Intensive Healing Formula
I don't think I posted an empties post the last time I used up a half-used tube of Cortizone, but it was equally victorious then as this one is now! Haha. I feel like I always have tubes of Cortizone hanging around foreverrrr because I always find myself needing some when traveling but forgot to bring it so would have to buy another one. This had me up to three tubes going all at the same time at one point. But this one marks the end of my superfluousness cortizone stage, haha, for I actually had to go buy some after using up this tube because I had no tubes left! Thank you empties quest for giving the strength and appreciation to make this moment possible. LOL Too much emotion about cortizone? Anyway, buy again? Cortizone, yes. This formula? Probably not. Didn't think this was any different than regular Cortizone.
11. Sally Hansen Diamond Strength Nail Polish in Champagne Toast
I loved this nail polish so was a little bummed when I found that the lid to this became just impossible to open! Haha. Even though I perhaps could have gotten it open by soaking it in nail polish remover or something, I've had this bottle since about 2007 or so, and it was getting a little thick anyway. I do however love the color, and it drys in a pretty decent amount of time. All nail polish chips on my nails, so this wasn't anything special in that category. But, this was a nice staple color, and it never failed me. Buy again? I think I will when I need this color again or actually use up more nail polish.
12. Bath and Body Works Body Lotion Sample Size in Malibu Heat
Glad I got this for free with a coupon (though only saved myself a dollar, haha) because I hated the scent. It just seemed so cliche and not unique at all. I am used to BBW lotions having a complex scent of a few things together but this seemed just one dimentional and unoriginal. A was a nice summer like smell, but not my style. The formula of this lotion is just fine, nothing special. Buy again? Definitely not this scent, and probably not the lotion in another scent since its not any better than drug store lotions.
13. Physicians Formula Moisture Balance Ultra-Hydrating Day & Night Cream
To put it plainly, this product SUCKED. It stung my face, was way overpriced at $20, and just didn't do anything for me. Once I got about half way through and fed up with the stinging I decided to use it as a body lotion just to use it up but even there it still sucked! It was totally rolly and gross as a body lotion. Buy again? Never, and I'm not interested in the other stuff in their new line after my horrors with this.
14. Bodycology Nourishing Body Cream in Cloud Nine
This was ok, but not amazing. The smell was fine, but got old and annoying after a while. The lotion formula is quite nice so I wouldn't be adverse to trying out other scents. This smaller size is nice because you can use it as a hand cream, though its a little greasy for that. It is also the perfect size for one full body application, which I think is great for trying out a scent on the cheap because I wanna say this only cost $2 at Target. They make the scents in body sprays and perfumes and stuff, so I think its great that you could try a scent for $2 before committing to a more expensive bigger size.
15. Mai Couture Oil Blotting Sheets in Lavender
I didn't hate these, but I am glad that I got them for free/super cheap in my December MyGlam bag when I was subscribed to them for a hot second. The sheets are fine, and the lavender smell doesn't bother me, but the thing holding me back from really liking them is the fact then whenever I used them I felt I had to use 2x as many sheets as I do with other brands. Other brands I only need one sheet for my whole face, but with these I needed two, every time. Would I buy them in the future? I don't think so, while they aren't terribly expensive, they are still too expensive for something that I use at 2 at a time. Maybe if I only could use one sheet then I would consider it, because I like the little booklet format these come in. I wouldn't be upset if I got them for free or as a gift though.
16. Arquiste Perfume Sample in Flor y Canto
I got this in my May Birchbox, and I just love the scent. It is a fresh but mature floral scent that reminds me of my mother, and just screams beauty to me. I would LOVE to own the full size of this perfume, but at $165 for only 55ml, I don't see it ever happening unless I become a very rich person haha. I would just die if I got this as a gift though. I adore that I got to try out something so luxurious through birchbox, just wish the brand sold rollerballs or something, then I think I might be able to buy it haha. Maybe if my blog gets more followers and I can get referral birchbox points my dream could become a reality, haha. :P Wanna help? Here is my referral link if you wanna sign up for birchbox and help me out: click here my lovelies.
17. Bath and Body Works Mini Shower Gel in Wild Citrus Sunflower
I bought a bunch of BBW stuff and then returned a bunch when I decided the scents weren't worth it and my money was better spent on an awesome super on sale Fossil purse (check out my previous post featuring it). This shower gel, however, was the only product to survive the return spree because I legitimately loved the scent so much that I wanted to use it all. It is a fun fruity scent with a slight floral backnote, and is just fun and refreshing to use in the shower! Buy again? I might when the spring stuff goes on sale! I would adore getting it as a gift too. In the meantime I'll be using some much cheaper shower gels that cost half the price of this and is like 8x the size haha.
18. Crest Sensitivity Clinical Sensitivity Relief Toothpaste.
I liked this toothpaste, but I'm not sure I would re-buy it. I think it helps somewhat with sensitivity but I think Sensodyne does it a lot better and a lot faster. I did like the taste, and I think it helped maintain the whiteness of my teeth, which was nice.
1. Bath Basics 3 in 1 in Tangerine
Talk about a giant bottle of bubble bath right?! I got this at Rite Aid aaaages ago and, if I recall correctly, this honkin' thing only cost $5! What a fantastic deal! With prices and sizes like these I didn't have to be skimpy and could have a heavenly excessively bubble filled bath :) This foams up and bubbles up quite nicely, and you can smell the scent while your tub is filling, and somewhat while you are soaking. This is just an all around good bubble bath, just nothing spectacular. Buy again? At $5, and with good performance, definitely. When you think about it, those expensive bubble baths seem silly even if they are a little better than this because with this being cheaper you don't have to be skimpy. Also, I loved using this with some Coconut Oil added into my bath to make it moisturizing. Now, when you consider the price of coconut oil and this together... you really don't need to splurge on expensive bubble baths :P
2. Mainstays Candle in Wild Honeysuckle
This is a $1 candle from Walmart, so I don't know why I was expecting much. Needless to say, this candle was a total let down. The only time you can smell the scent is when you sniff it in the store, never could smell it when it was burning. Not even when I was hovering right over it! These could be nice for light purposes like in the summer at night with a bonfire, because then you don't really care about the scent, and $1 would be a good price for something of that purpose. Would I buy again? Never again for room scent purposes. Will keep it in mind for unscented candle purposes though because the little jar looks nice and the label is easy to take off.
3. Lip Vitamins Lip Balm in Peach Mango
You might recall my hauling this from Claire's for a whopping $1 on sale! For it only costing $1 I didn't expect wonders, but I was super surprised and got great results! It was actually extremely moisturizing, almost like a lip butter or something. At first I thought the oval shape of the tube was a little weird, but that I found myself loving that aspect of it too! Buy again? Really considering it! Next time I spot one of those Claire's 10 for 10 deals, I might have to stock up on these and check out some other flavors. Watch me never find it again though, haha. Anyone know anywhere that carries these chapsticks other than Claire's?
4. Tretinoin Cream
My opinion hasn't changed since the first time I emptied a tube of this: see this post. 2 down 4 to go.
5. Deep Sea Cosmetics Hand and Body Lotion Sample
So this was one of those samples that those kiosk guys at the mall hand you and then try to talk you into buying their product. I, however, am the queen of playing such players and take the sample when they hand it to me without slowing down my pace and just keep walking. If you don't stop and don't hesitate they are completely disarmed and know that you are totally calling them out, haha. The guy even tried a section tactic of saying I dropped something, so I turned my head, while still walking, then he laughed because he knew I wasn't fooled and gave me a wink, almost like it was for respect to a fellow player, hahahahaha. Anyway, on to the product itself. This lotion is nothing special. It smells soapy, which I don't really hate, but was expecting something more "exotic" or something since it claims to be from the Dead Sea. Buy full size? Not a chance. Probably too expensive for what it is, plus don't want to deal with those kiosk people, haha.
6. Nivea Essentially Enriched Daily Lotion
This lotion was just fine. I got it one sale at Target, so that was nice since it was about half price (and who will complain about half price Nivea?). I found that it was actually really nice and moisturizing! I did think that it could be a little greasy, but I was willing to deal with they because it moisturized so nicely. I does have a kind of medicinal powdery smell that reminds me of nurses and hospitals for some reason, haha. But again? I might, though it being on sale maybe they are discontinuing it? Definitely not running to get it right away because I am always wanting to try new body lotions. If I can find something that gives the results of this lotion but with a nice smell, and maybe less of a greasy feeling, then we'll be talking!
7. It's a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product Travel Sized
I will admit I was a little underwhelmed by this product. I am super glad I got to try it out at half price though, since I am ALWAYS hearing about this product, so of course wanted to try it out myself. I didn't think this did anything spectacular, but I didn't hate it. I did think it helped a little with moisture and taming frizz. However, I don't really like the smell. While I don't think I would buy this product again, I am open to considering other products in the line, especially if those smell better, haha.
8. Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum Travel Sized
Now this is a GEM of a product, and I practically got this for pennies when I got it half off like the Its's a 10. I think this cost me a whopping $2.25. That, my friends, is a great price to sample a product at this size! Birtchbox, take note! I think this would be a great thing to put in a future box! haha. Anyway, on to my opinion. I loved this. Even though its a serum, I never felt like this was thick or sticky, just absorbed into my hair without looking like I used to much! I also loved how light this was on my hair while still giving great frizz fighting results! And, can I also mention the smell? It is divine! Buy the full size? I am REALLY considering it, but the price tag is holding me back. Going to use up more of what I have, and maybe try some cheaper alternatives first before biting that bullet. Hey, even if I don't find a cheaper alternative, they will just give me a better appreciation for this product and all it can do, haha!
9. Glade Candle in Cool Serenity
I have reviewed many a candle, and quite a few Glade ones at this point to really know what I want from a candle at this point. The smell was fine, but a little mediocre and nothing special. The burn wasn't clean, but the scent did emanate a decent amount form the candle while it burned. Buy again? Not this scent, but probably will still buy Glade candles, even thought they aren't my favorite. The price is just good for something that doesn't last a super long time.
10. Cortizone 10 Intensive Healing Formula
I don't think I posted an empties post the last time I used up a half-used tube of Cortizone, but it was equally victorious then as this one is now! Haha. I feel like I always have tubes of Cortizone hanging around foreverrrr because I always find myself needing some when traveling but forgot to bring it so would have to buy another one. This had me up to three tubes going all at the same time at one point. But this one marks the end of my superfluousness cortizone stage, haha, for I actually had to go buy some after using up this tube because I had no tubes left! Thank you empties quest for giving the strength and appreciation to make this moment possible. LOL Too much emotion about cortizone? Anyway, buy again? Cortizone, yes. This formula? Probably not. Didn't think this was any different than regular Cortizone.
11. Sally Hansen Diamond Strength Nail Polish in Champagne Toast
I loved this nail polish so was a little bummed when I found that the lid to this became just impossible to open! Haha. Even though I perhaps could have gotten it open by soaking it in nail polish remover or something, I've had this bottle since about 2007 or so, and it was getting a little thick anyway. I do however love the color, and it drys in a pretty decent amount of time. All nail polish chips on my nails, so this wasn't anything special in that category. But, this was a nice staple color, and it never failed me. Buy again? I think I will when I need this color again or actually use up more nail polish.
12. Bath and Body Works Body Lotion Sample Size in Malibu Heat
Glad I got this for free with a coupon (though only saved myself a dollar, haha) because I hated the scent. It just seemed so cliche and not unique at all. I am used to BBW lotions having a complex scent of a few things together but this seemed just one dimentional and unoriginal. A was a nice summer like smell, but not my style. The formula of this lotion is just fine, nothing special. Buy again? Definitely not this scent, and probably not the lotion in another scent since its not any better than drug store lotions.
13. Physicians Formula Moisture Balance Ultra-Hydrating Day & Night Cream
To put it plainly, this product SUCKED. It stung my face, was way overpriced at $20, and just didn't do anything for me. Once I got about half way through and fed up with the stinging I decided to use it as a body lotion just to use it up but even there it still sucked! It was totally rolly and gross as a body lotion. Buy again? Never, and I'm not interested in the other stuff in their new line after my horrors with this.
14. Bodycology Nourishing Body Cream in Cloud Nine
This was ok, but not amazing. The smell was fine, but got old and annoying after a while. The lotion formula is quite nice so I wouldn't be adverse to trying out other scents. This smaller size is nice because you can use it as a hand cream, though its a little greasy for that. It is also the perfect size for one full body application, which I think is great for trying out a scent on the cheap because I wanna say this only cost $2 at Target. They make the scents in body sprays and perfumes and stuff, so I think its great that you could try a scent for $2 before committing to a more expensive bigger size.
15. Mai Couture Oil Blotting Sheets in Lavender
I didn't hate these, but I am glad that I got them for free/super cheap in my December MyGlam bag when I was subscribed to them for a hot second. The sheets are fine, and the lavender smell doesn't bother me, but the thing holding me back from really liking them is the fact then whenever I used them I felt I had to use 2x as many sheets as I do with other brands. Other brands I only need one sheet for my whole face, but with these I needed two, every time. Would I buy them in the future? I don't think so, while they aren't terribly expensive, they are still too expensive for something that I use at 2 at a time. Maybe if I only could use one sheet then I would consider it, because I like the little booklet format these come in. I wouldn't be upset if I got them for free or as a gift though.
16. Arquiste Perfume Sample in Flor y Canto
I got this in my May Birchbox, and I just love the scent. It is a fresh but mature floral scent that reminds me of my mother, and just screams beauty to me. I would LOVE to own the full size of this perfume, but at $165 for only 55ml, I don't see it ever happening unless I become a very rich person haha. I would just die if I got this as a gift though. I adore that I got to try out something so luxurious through birchbox, just wish the brand sold rollerballs or something, then I think I might be able to buy it haha. Maybe if my blog gets more followers and I can get referral birchbox points my dream could become a reality, haha. :P Wanna help? Here is my referral link if you wanna sign up for birchbox and help me out: click here my lovelies.
17. Bath and Body Works Mini Shower Gel in Wild Citrus Sunflower
I bought a bunch of BBW stuff and then returned a bunch when I decided the scents weren't worth it and my money was better spent on an awesome super on sale Fossil purse (check out my previous post featuring it). This shower gel, however, was the only product to survive the return spree because I legitimately loved the scent so much that I wanted to use it all. It is a fun fruity scent with a slight floral backnote, and is just fun and refreshing to use in the shower! Buy again? I might when the spring stuff goes on sale! I would adore getting it as a gift too. In the meantime I'll be using some much cheaper shower gels that cost half the price of this and is like 8x the size haha.
18. Crest Sensitivity Clinical Sensitivity Relief Toothpaste.
I liked this toothpaste, but I'm not sure I would re-buy it. I think it helps somewhat with sensitivity but I think Sensodyne does it a lot better and a lot faster. I did like the taste, and I think it helped maintain the whiteness of my teeth, which was nice.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Gigundo Empties Post
I am SO proud of this empties post because it is so well rounded, and because I found a lot of things that I loved. Hope you enjoy! :)
1. Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash
I used up this body wash because it was sitting around my parents house not being used since it used to be my sisters but she moved out and moved far away, never to return to use this body wash, haha. So, I figured I should give it a good home in my loofa and see whats up with it since my sister ALWAYS gets this body wash. The verdict? It's ok. I didn't notice anything spectacular about it moisturizing and soothing itchy skin, but I think that is because I don't really suffer from that problem like my sister does. It smells kinda funky, but I didn't hate it so much that if I did need to use this for itchiness reasons, I could deal with it. Would I buy it? Probably not, unless my sister convinced me I needed it for hypothetical dry skin of the future.
2. Revlon Colorstay Whipped Creme Makeup Sample in Nude.
I got this little sample at CVS when this makeup first came out. I always love a free sample, and have always wanted to try a Colorstay line foundation. While this sample was suuuper tiny and only really covered my cheeks (and just barely that, haha), I did find myself liking it. It didn't break me out, and I like the way it felt when I put it on. I didn't notice anything about my cheeks looking different later in the day than the rest of my face where I had used the Vitalumere Aqua, which is good! While this is a pricier drug store foundation, around $12 I think, I am considering buying it after I run out of my Chanel, because they felt so similar going on. I just hope I can get a good color match in the lighter shades below nude!
3. Kat Von D Autograph Liner in Love Metal
I honestly bought this in like 2008 or something, and because of that fact I think it is time to toss it. While it still applies nicely, it burns like I-don't-know-what if you get it in your eyes, which is probably due to its age. I am pretty sure it was this product that got me really into gunmetal as my favorite color, so it is bittersweet to see this go, especially since it is still about half full. Buy again? Perhaps if I really had a need for a colored liquid liner like this. I honestly have no idea how I used up as much as I did since I hardly wore it haha. Def love the Kat Von D line, and will be checking out more of her stuff in the future :)
4. Urban Decay Heavy Metal Glitter Liner in Distortion
Same story with this as the Kat Von D, though this one was purchased after the Kat Von D, just still ancient, haha. I love love LOVE the color and the way it applies, and I never really had much of a eye-burning problem with this liner as the other one, but sometimes it could get a little itchy in its old age. Buy again? I think I would if I could snag it at a bargain. While I never used it enough to really justify buying it again, I wouldn't mind having it again because I always found that it came in handy for costume events or a glitzy going out look. Hautelook I'm look at you to bring this back into my life! Haha.
5. Sun Bum Chapstick
So sad to see this go! You might remember my mini haul of this back when I was on vacation in December. I have been using it off and on since then, so that's probably why this lasted me so long. I LOVE this chapstick, and will definitely be buying it again when I get the chance! Whats not to love? The formula is light and greasy in a good way, it has 30+ SPF, so perfect for sun worshiping, it tastes and smells like juicy fruit... it has an awesome money head on the top of the cap; it really is perfection, haha. The only down side is that the label that goes around the tube gets easily scuffed up (but the monkey on the top is quite safe, secure, and un-scuffed, which is the important thing, obviously).
6. Pure Coconut Oil
I bought this giant thing last summer at a vitamin store and have never regretted the purchase. I love the stuff, and it has so many uses! My personal favorite use is to add a dollop to your bubble bath to turn it into a moisturizing bath! But it is also great for hair masks (though can be a little messy so be careful), and body moisturizing. Buy it again? I might if I come across a smaller container, because this thing just looked crazy on my counter, haha, but definitely will still be seeking out products that contain coconut oil.
7. Aveeno Positivey Smooth Shave Gel
I bought this slightly on a whim when I just wanted to try a new shave gel because I had gotten bored with all the other choices that are out there. For some reason the idea of it letting me shave less often just hooked me, and once I smelled it I was definitely sold; it smells kinda like play-doh in all the best ways :P I don't think it actually did anything to let me shave less often though. It did perform well in all its shaving gel duties, and it never stung, or gave me razor burn. I also love the packaging because its matte and just has a nice feel to it. It also has a rust proof bottom, which is definitely true because it never rusted even in the slightest during the time ti lived in my shower. Buy it again? Yep definitely, just gonna try out a fun summer scented one next I think.
8. Tresemme Heat Tamer Spray
It's the classic heat tamer spray. It does its job, it sprays nicely (though I always pour it in a small travel sprayer when I use it because I just find that is easier), and it smells nice. I have nothing too passionate to say about it either way though. This was my second bottle I have used up in my life so I think I am going to try out a new brand's heat protector next just to try something new, but this will always be a go to steady in my life. Plus its super cheap! Always a bonus!
9. Redkin Nature's Rescue Radient Sea Spray
I bought this back in Janurary after remembering that a Youtube guru I watch loved it last summer so I decided to give it ago. I do love the scent that it gives your hair, and I do think it can last quite a bit in your hair. My favorite is when I spray it in my hair after a shower before bed, and then when I ruffle my hair in the morning it smells super fresh. I do think it is pretty expensive for a product that is a hair perfume. It was fun while it lasted but I don't think I would ever buy it again. I would love getting it as a gift or something though. I wonder if I can dupe it with a cheaper body spray or something and just spray that in my hair? Suggestions? Comment below, haha. :P
10. ELF Makeup Mist & Set
I honestly can't remember why I bought this, but I remember being on a mission to get it at Target and felt very victorious when I got it, haha. I don't think it really makes your makeup last longer but it was great for what I used it for: to spray on after applying power to get ride of that "powdery" look since I tend to use too much power just to use up the powder on my Kill It Quest faster, haha. It has a strange smell but it doesn't last after it dries, so it's a whatever point. At $3 this is fabulous, and I love the size of it. Buy it again? Definitely will at that price, especially if I have more "powdery"ness issues in the future.
11. L'Oreal EverCreme Intense Nourishing Shampoo
I bought this with low expectations because I had heard mixed reviews about it on the internet but was feeling compelled to try it for myself, and I also needed a few dollars for a CVS bonusbuck deal if I recall and this was the perfect amount to reach the threshold, haha. I am glad I did it though because I learned that I quite like this shampoo. While it does have some derrivative sulfate-like ingredients, and you can tell by how it does lather up a bit, I do think it is better for your hair because it doesn't really strip it of much, but in a good way. Some people have complained that their hair didn't feel clean after using this, but I always shampooed twice, and didn't use the accompanying conditioner, so maybe that was a key to my success? It also has a nice kind of cinnamon-y smell. Buy it again? Yep, I think I would, just have other things to explore first.
12. Dove Nourishing Oil Care Daily Treatment Conditioner
When I bought this I wanted to try out the Dove Daily Treatment Conditioner, as well as their new Nourishing Oil line so when I saw that both things were put together in one product I was sold, and I loved every second of this conditioner! Firstly, I never knew Dove smelled this fantastic! Where has Dove been all my life!? No more wasting my time with Herbal Essences, the smell of Dove is just so divine in comparison! Secondly, I think this performed rather well! While my hair wasn't magically changed, I think it did improve my hair, and it was always a pleasant experience to use. Buy again? Definitely. I think I might try the non-nourishing oil version of the daily treatment, as well as just the Nourishing Oil line actual oil and see how that works for my hair. If that isn't as good, that I am definitely returning this baby!
13. Ojon Damage Reverse Restorative Conditioner
I was STOKED when I got this in my May Birchbox because I have been stalking this line for years at Sephora but just never had tried it til now. It always sounded like a product I would love, but I learned that I'm glad I didn't buy the full size all those times I considered it. The smell of this product is just something I can't work with. I can't even describe the scent, but I just know that I don't like it, and I don't care how magical the results might be. I used this twice (though really one and a half), because that's how many uses I could get out of it, and didn't notice any magical difference. I wouldn't doubt that maybe longer use of this product could convince me of its great ways, but the smell... I just wouldn't be able to get past it to use up a whole full sized bottle (kind of very similar to the issue I had with the equally hyped Joico conditioner I tried). Buy full sized? Obviously not.
1. Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash
I used up this body wash because it was sitting around my parents house not being used since it used to be my sisters but she moved out and moved far away, never to return to use this body wash, haha. So, I figured I should give it a good home in my loofa and see whats up with it since my sister ALWAYS gets this body wash. The verdict? It's ok. I didn't notice anything spectacular about it moisturizing and soothing itchy skin, but I think that is because I don't really suffer from that problem like my sister does. It smells kinda funky, but I didn't hate it so much that if I did need to use this for itchiness reasons, I could deal with it. Would I buy it? Probably not, unless my sister convinced me I needed it for hypothetical dry skin of the future.
2. Revlon Colorstay Whipped Creme Makeup Sample in Nude.
I got this little sample at CVS when this makeup first came out. I always love a free sample, and have always wanted to try a Colorstay line foundation. While this sample was suuuper tiny and only really covered my cheeks (and just barely that, haha), I did find myself liking it. It didn't break me out, and I like the way it felt when I put it on. I didn't notice anything about my cheeks looking different later in the day than the rest of my face where I had used the Vitalumere Aqua, which is good! While this is a pricier drug store foundation, around $12 I think, I am considering buying it after I run out of my Chanel, because they felt so similar going on. I just hope I can get a good color match in the lighter shades below nude!
3. Kat Von D Autograph Liner in Love Metal
I honestly bought this in like 2008 or something, and because of that fact I think it is time to toss it. While it still applies nicely, it burns like I-don't-know-what if you get it in your eyes, which is probably due to its age. I am pretty sure it was this product that got me really into gunmetal as my favorite color, so it is bittersweet to see this go, especially since it is still about half full. Buy again? Perhaps if I really had a need for a colored liquid liner like this. I honestly have no idea how I used up as much as I did since I hardly wore it haha. Def love the Kat Von D line, and will be checking out more of her stuff in the future :)
4. Urban Decay Heavy Metal Glitter Liner in Distortion
Same story with this as the Kat Von D, though this one was purchased after the Kat Von D, just still ancient, haha. I love love LOVE the color and the way it applies, and I never really had much of a eye-burning problem with this liner as the other one, but sometimes it could get a little itchy in its old age. Buy again? I think I would if I could snag it at a bargain. While I never used it enough to really justify buying it again, I wouldn't mind having it again because I always found that it came in handy for costume events or a glitzy going out look. Hautelook I'm look at you to bring this back into my life! Haha.
5. Sun Bum Chapstick
So sad to see this go! You might remember my mini haul of this back when I was on vacation in December. I have been using it off and on since then, so that's probably why this lasted me so long. I LOVE this chapstick, and will definitely be buying it again when I get the chance! Whats not to love? The formula is light and greasy in a good way, it has 30+ SPF, so perfect for sun worshiping, it tastes and smells like juicy fruit... it has an awesome money head on the top of the cap; it really is perfection, haha. The only down side is that the label that goes around the tube gets easily scuffed up (but the monkey on the top is quite safe, secure, and un-scuffed, which is the important thing, obviously).
6. Pure Coconut Oil
I bought this giant thing last summer at a vitamin store and have never regretted the purchase. I love the stuff, and it has so many uses! My personal favorite use is to add a dollop to your bubble bath to turn it into a moisturizing bath! But it is also great for hair masks (though can be a little messy so be careful), and body moisturizing. Buy it again? I might if I come across a smaller container, because this thing just looked crazy on my counter, haha, but definitely will still be seeking out products that contain coconut oil.
7. Aveeno Positivey Smooth Shave Gel
I bought this slightly on a whim when I just wanted to try a new shave gel because I had gotten bored with all the other choices that are out there. For some reason the idea of it letting me shave less often just hooked me, and once I smelled it I was definitely sold; it smells kinda like play-doh in all the best ways :P I don't think it actually did anything to let me shave less often though. It did perform well in all its shaving gel duties, and it never stung, or gave me razor burn. I also love the packaging because its matte and just has a nice feel to it. It also has a rust proof bottom, which is definitely true because it never rusted even in the slightest during the time ti lived in my shower. Buy it again? Yep definitely, just gonna try out a fun summer scented one next I think.
8. Tresemme Heat Tamer Spray
It's the classic heat tamer spray. It does its job, it sprays nicely (though I always pour it in a small travel sprayer when I use it because I just find that is easier), and it smells nice. I have nothing too passionate to say about it either way though. This was my second bottle I have used up in my life so I think I am going to try out a new brand's heat protector next just to try something new, but this will always be a go to steady in my life. Plus its super cheap! Always a bonus!
9. Redkin Nature's Rescue Radient Sea Spray
I bought this back in Janurary after remembering that a Youtube guru I watch loved it last summer so I decided to give it ago. I do love the scent that it gives your hair, and I do think it can last quite a bit in your hair. My favorite is when I spray it in my hair after a shower before bed, and then when I ruffle my hair in the morning it smells super fresh. I do think it is pretty expensive for a product that is a hair perfume. It was fun while it lasted but I don't think I would ever buy it again. I would love getting it as a gift or something though. I wonder if I can dupe it with a cheaper body spray or something and just spray that in my hair? Suggestions? Comment below, haha. :P
10. ELF Makeup Mist & Set
I honestly can't remember why I bought this, but I remember being on a mission to get it at Target and felt very victorious when I got it, haha. I don't think it really makes your makeup last longer but it was great for what I used it for: to spray on after applying power to get ride of that "powdery" look since I tend to use too much power just to use up the powder on my Kill It Quest faster, haha. It has a strange smell but it doesn't last after it dries, so it's a whatever point. At $3 this is fabulous, and I love the size of it. Buy it again? Definitely will at that price, especially if I have more "powdery"ness issues in the future.
11. L'Oreal EverCreme Intense Nourishing Shampoo
I bought this with low expectations because I had heard mixed reviews about it on the internet but was feeling compelled to try it for myself, and I also needed a few dollars for a CVS bonusbuck deal if I recall and this was the perfect amount to reach the threshold, haha. I am glad I did it though because I learned that I quite like this shampoo. While it does have some derrivative sulfate-like ingredients, and you can tell by how it does lather up a bit, I do think it is better for your hair because it doesn't really strip it of much, but in a good way. Some people have complained that their hair didn't feel clean after using this, but I always shampooed twice, and didn't use the accompanying conditioner, so maybe that was a key to my success? It also has a nice kind of cinnamon-y smell. Buy it again? Yep, I think I would, just have other things to explore first.
12. Dove Nourishing Oil Care Daily Treatment Conditioner
When I bought this I wanted to try out the Dove Daily Treatment Conditioner, as well as their new Nourishing Oil line so when I saw that both things were put together in one product I was sold, and I loved every second of this conditioner! Firstly, I never knew Dove smelled this fantastic! Where has Dove been all my life!? No more wasting my time with Herbal Essences, the smell of Dove is just so divine in comparison! Secondly, I think this performed rather well! While my hair wasn't magically changed, I think it did improve my hair, and it was always a pleasant experience to use. Buy again? Definitely. I think I might try the non-nourishing oil version of the daily treatment, as well as just the Nourishing Oil line actual oil and see how that works for my hair. If that isn't as good, that I am definitely returning this baby!
13. Ojon Damage Reverse Restorative Conditioner
I was STOKED when I got this in my May Birchbox because I have been stalking this line for years at Sephora but just never had tried it til now. It always sounded like a product I would love, but I learned that I'm glad I didn't buy the full size all those times I considered it. The smell of this product is just something I can't work with. I can't even describe the scent, but I just know that I don't like it, and I don't care how magical the results might be. I used this twice (though really one and a half), because that's how many uses I could get out of it, and didn't notice any magical difference. I wouldn't doubt that maybe longer use of this product could convince me of its great ways, but the smell... I just wouldn't be able to get past it to use up a whole full sized bottle (kind of very similar to the issue I had with the equally hyped Joico conditioner I tried). Buy full sized? Obviously not.
Saturday, June 16, 2012
Trendy Summer Staples Haul (Free!)
Back in March or so I won a blog contest and the prize was a $50 Mall, Etc Gift Card which is basically a prepaid American Express Card. So, naturally, I decided to buy some stuff at Marshalls to maximize my winnings! Haha :) I love contests that are gift cards than specific items, because then you have control over how much you will like the prize! Haha. Tell me what you guys think and if you have picked up anything great at Marshalls recently. Here is what I got:
Aren't these jeans just perfect for the spring and summer trends this year!? I have actually been dying for a pair of red and bright blue jeans since last fall before it was even trendy (does that make me sound like a hipster? haha) but had always been reluctant to buy them because jeans can be so expensive! But when I found these jeans, which actually are cotton and more trouser like (which I LOVE!), I was in love with the price because they were both under $20 each because they were from the junior section of Marshalls rather then the regular women's section. So, fun fact, check the juniors section because they sometimes have super similar style pieces to regular women but almost always cost less! SCORE!
Brands
Left Pair: Indigo Rein
Right Pair: Kenar
I had also been dying generally to get a super light summery sweater, and with this orange stripey number my thirst was quenched! I love the open neck and the raglan style. I also love that because of the way that it is cute it tends to pull the neck upwards and the back down so there is a scoop in the back rather than the front. At first I wasn't sure how I felt about it, but after wearing it a few times I love it and think its an adorable way to show off your back with a cute tank under neither. This doesn't quite fit off the shoulders but I think it could if you really wanted to!
Brand: Edge
Have any of you guys been lucky with contests recently? I've been pretty good with them this year actually, would anyone be interested in a post about my contest winning strategies? Comment below and let me know! Haha.
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Kout & Awesome Leather Accessories
I dunno if you guys have heard of Klout yet, but I am hear to enlighten you to its wonders if you haven't! Haha
Klout basically is a site that rewards you for your influence on social media. They give you a klout "score" which measures your level of influence (basically how much your friends pay attention to you) and certain scores let you qualify for different "perks." One of my favorite perks so far was a gift card to www.boticca.com which then made me discover the wonders of Boticca (seriously, I love the idea of it, and lots of the designers on there!). The gift card was $25 off a $40 purchase, though most things on the site aren't below $40 because it higher end private designs and stuff. I looked around the site for a while and scoured for something that would be $40 even and have free shipping so it would be the cheapest, but when I came across this leather purse, I was totally ok with paying the difference!
The Brand is Miller and Jeeves the style is the Aubry Pouch in Mocha, the price is $47 and it had free shipping when i bought it, though I think it doesn't anymore. Here is the link if you are interested.
What do you think? Great reward for being social influential no? It was this bag that got be into loving real leather purses and why I subsequently bought my Fossil purse from my previous blog post. It isn't the biggest purse, and pouch is really an accurate description of its size, but I think its perfect for the classy going out look, don't you?
*None of the links are affiliate links, though I would love to be affiliated with both Klout and Boticca professionally! Haha :)*
Klout basically is a site that rewards you for your influence on social media. They give you a klout "score" which measures your level of influence (basically how much your friends pay attention to you) and certain scores let you qualify for different "perks." One of my favorite perks so far was a gift card to www.boticca.com which then made me discover the wonders of Boticca (seriously, I love the idea of it, and lots of the designers on there!). The gift card was $25 off a $40 purchase, though most things on the site aren't below $40 because it higher end private designs and stuff. I looked around the site for a while and scoured for something that would be $40 even and have free shipping so it would be the cheapest, but when I came across this leather purse, I was totally ok with paying the difference!
The Brand is Miller and Jeeves the style is the Aubry Pouch in Mocha, the price is $47 and it had free shipping when i bought it, though I think it doesn't anymore. Here is the link if you are interested.
What do you think? Great reward for being social influential no? It was this bag that got be into loving real leather purses and why I subsequently bought my Fossil purse from my previous blog post. It isn't the biggest purse, and pouch is really an accurate description of its size, but I think its perfect for the classy going out look, don't you?
*None of the links are affiliate links, though I would love to be affiliated with both Klout and Boticca professionally! Haha :)*
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