January Favorites!

When it comes to beauty products, I have more than I can count. Nonetheless I always make sure to use them up before replacing full bottles of things.   However there comes a time now and then when you simply just fall in love with a product! Lately I have been obsession over these beauty products where I find myself reaching for them on a constant basis. So I decided to incorporate them in my January favorites. God knows I had more, but I figure I choice my top picks and leave the rest for next month's favorites!

Nars Turkish Delight - $31.00 CDN

This has got to be the most beautiful pinkish nude lip gloss I have ever seen. Not only does it glide on so smoothly and nourishes your lips, but it also leaves behind no tacky or sticky feeling. It really makes my lips feel conditioned all day long. The color has a good pay off lasting for a few hours before needing to re-apply. I plan to get their color Striptease as well since it seems like a color I would wear!

Poppy Austin Bright Revitalizing Eye Cream - $22.49 US

Poppy Austin is a company I have fallen in love with over the last year!  They make great products that not only work but are sensible and safe for the skin.  This product contains "organic Aloe, organic Jojoba Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Rosehip Oil, Green Tea, Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Tamanu Oil" to name a few.  It also lacks all the silly fillers, alochol,fragrances and other ingredients that are harmful to the skin!  I have been using this around my eyes and I have to say I am amazed at the results.  It has helped greatly with puffiness, tackling my very fine lines and wrinkles and seriously hydrating my eye area.  It literally leaves the skin around my eyes feeling like fine silk. I am already fearing the day that this bottle runs out!

Calgon Ageless Bath Mineral Scrub and Soak

Growing up I always saw this name brand in my local drugstore but never had the opportunity to try it out.  A few weeks ago, I was walking down the aisle of Shopper Drugmart looking for a good body scrub when I saw this.   It flashed me back to my childhood and I knew I had to try this out.  So with that I sniffed it and bought it!  I have to say, for the $6.00 it cost me, it was well worth it.  This mineral scrub literally leaves my skin feeling fresh, clean and exfoliated.  The smell is amazing without being overpowering.  You can also use a few scoops in your bath water if you just wanted to soak in it.  For the price, this product comes in a really big tub.  I use it about 2-3 times a week and my skin always feels alive and clean afterwards.  It washes always with no residue left behind and leaves your skin nicely conditioned and smelling great!  You can find this brand at any local drugstore or supermarket in the bath aisle.   

Nexxus Therappe Shampoo & Humectress Conditioner 

Nexxus was literally a staple item for my mother growing up in my home.  I am talking circa 1980's when the bottles looked completely different.  I recently tried this for the first time after seeing it in my friends bathroom.  So one day while walking through Shoppers Drugmart I saw this on sale for ten dollars a bottle with a coupon for two dollars off each bottle.  I have to say, while this is not sulfate free, nonetheless it does make my hair look and smell great.  It has this amazing smell like cinnamon and spice.  It leaves my hair feeling soft and my scalp feeling great!  I would suggest you buy this on sale because at regular price this can almost cost anywhere between $15 to $20 a bottle!

Too Faced Semi Sweet Chocolate Palette - $49 US / $59 CDN   

I just love this palette.  While I will say the original Chocolate Bar Palette is better, nonetheless this one still hits it out of the park.  The palette has colors that range from cool to warm tones.  While the colors aren't highly pigmented, nonetheless a little water on your brush does the trick.  The Blueberry Swirl color looks awesome when applied to the lid with their Peanut Butter color.  If you have the original chocolate bar palette, then this will surly be an amazing addition to your collection and totally fun to play with and create awesome looks!

Bella and Bear "The Pluckers" Professional Tweezer Set - $25.00 US

This tweezer set is like no other. It comes with three different tweezers to pluck and tweeze all your eyebrow needs!  Because this has three different shapes, it works wonders in grabbing all the hairs on your eyebrows with breeze.  I love this plucker set and is now my go to for plucking.  I just threw out my old Tweezerman set and moved on to these.  These are totally worth buying due to the three different tweezers it comes with!  Trust your eyebrows will thank you!

Julep Oxygen Nail Treatment - $14.00 / $18.00 US

This is one of the best nail treatments I have seen or tried in a while. My nails are normally hard and sturdy. However with pregnancy they become brittle, soft and break off easily. I started using this product one month ago and was amazed to see how my nails grew strong again. I also realized that they no longer looked brittle, but shiny, smoother and the free edge (the white part) was very white and strong. You are suppose to wear this nail treatment alone on clean nails with no other type of nail polish. It leaves a nice soft pinky color on your nails. It lasted me a whole week before needing to reapply. When I cleaned it off with nail polish remover in order to re-apply again for the next week, there were no stains left behind on my nails. I am honestly amazed at this nail treatment and what a simple week and two coats did to my nails.

So there you have it, my favorites for January! Let me know if you are currently obessession over any beauty products!

Keep Smiling!

Dayana

Read More

6 Skincare Companies Worth Knowing!

Post Contains Affiliated links

Last week I wrote about six independent beauty companies worth checking into because of their amazing prices, fabulous makeup quality and amazing makeup brushes. Click here for that review. This week I decided to spotlight six skincare companies that in my opinion not only offer quality products that actually produce results, but that also showcase quality ingredients without using harsh chemicals, alcohols, fragrances, fillers or binders that breakdown collagen and create free radical cell damage.  

These six companies are the ONLY ones you will see on my vanity bathroom counter year around.  I literally have nothing else there besides these six companies.  While you won't find these products in your local department store, drugstore or Sephora, however not finding them there doesn't mean you shouldn't be looking into them.  I am very picky about what goes on my face and ALWAYS do my medical research on the ingredients before buying a product.  It doesn't phase me who's name is on the product.  If it doesn't add up then its not worth damaging your face over. Period.  These six companies so far I have found to fit the bill and offer me the skincare quality I need to keep me looking young, fresh and alive day in and day out in any type of weather!

Paula's Choice

If you haven't heard about Paula's Choice its probably because you been living under a skincare rock like I was up to two years ago.  I started using Paula's Choice Skin Balancing line as my skincare routine and never looked back.  I came to hear about this company all by accident.  My physician friend one day notified me that if I wasn't using a good BHA/AHA/Retinol/Vitamin C at my age then I wasn't using anything at all. So of course I hit the internet to first find the medical literature on these ingredients and then the products themselves.  What a world of wonder I found.  Not only did I find tons of products from other companies full of crap ingredients but many were either harmful to the skin or no longer effective due to bad packaging.  So my search lead me on a massive product hunt for two weeks.  Hence when I found Paula's Choice.  Not only did they have actual up-to-date medical literature to back up their product claims, but they also have proper packaging for their products based on the ingredients they use.  Truly this company amazes me as you can find literally just about any BHA/AHA/Retinol/Vitamin C product to suit your skincare needs.  The prices are affordable, their shipping is realistic and their ingredients are quality.  You can literally shop for just about every skincare problem you have and for all seasonal issues.  90% of my skincare products are Paula's Choice.  I don't know how I got by before I starting using these products.  Nonetheless, I don't plan to ever get by without them again!

As a bonus, if you click on the Paula's Choice link here, for first time buyers you will get a $10 credit for any item you buy worth $15 or more! This company is truly worth trying out!

Colleen Rothschild

I first heard about this company from Youtube, where else!  Mrs. Rothschild is pretty brilliant.  She used the power of youtube and sent a few beauty youtubers products from her line to sample and review.  Needless to say it worked because it got me hooked not to mention others!  My first purchase ever was there Radiant Cleansing Balm which literally melted away all my makeup in one shot.  After that I tried their Clarifying Detox Face Mask which I love as well.  When it comes to an effective luxury brand, trust me this is one of them. This line has great ingredients in it which are worth noting.  A lot of their packaging is correct for the products they sell in order to keep the formula's stable.  In their line you will find products with retinol, vitamin C and salicylic acid which all make a really big difference on the face when packaged and used correctly.  Mrs. Rothschild also understands that when it comes to skincare, one product does NOT do it all and she makes that clear on her website.  You need to use a combination of products in order to tackle a combination of issues. However those products must contain certain stable ingredients that one needs in order for this happen which are found in this line.  Colleen Rothschild line offers a range of products from gentle face cleanser to more potent products like retinol.  I am slowly trying out more of their products as they are not cheap but well worth the money.       

Ageless Derma

I came to try Ageless Derma when one day I decided that I needed to use a Retinol Eye Cream with Vitamin K.  I searched high and low but could not find anything with these two ingredients put together.  I read in a medical journal article that putting retinol with vitamin K helped to diminished the look of fine lines and wrinkles but to also condition the skin to avoid the possible dryness that retinol can cause.  After trying this product out, I was hooked and ended up using at least four more of their products.  This company was founded by a medical doctor who did his research in order to create quality skincare products.  Their facial cleansers, skin brightening creams and moisturizers have some amazing ingredients in them that truly leave your skin with great results.  They lack the usual ingredients found in many skincare products like fragrances, alochol, fillers and so on which is a bonus.  I enjoy using this product line and always have a bottle of something of theirs either in my shower or on my bathroom vanity.  While they might be a bit pricey, but the results are worth every penny.

Use code Ageless when checking out to get 20% of your order storewide!   

Poppy Austin

Poppy Austin was another company I found all by accident.  While searching for an authentic but decently price Argan Oil, I found this company.  What I just love about Poppy Austin is not just the fact that they use quality ingredients but that they don't charge an arm and a leg for all natural products either.  You also won't find unnecessary ingredients in their skincare line.  They don't incorporate fragrances, dyes, scents or alcohol in their products.  The only scent I have smelled so far is in the rose water which by nature it has a scent on its own. The products are completely decently priced and all the ingredients are listed on the bottle.  Their bottle sizes are amazing for the amount you get and pay for. You literally get twice the size of product versus in other companies when the bottles are about 1 oz or less.  They sell some amazing Roesehip Oil, Vitamin C Serum, Rhassoul Clay Mask and Eye Cream worth trying.  They also work with the community where they harvest their materials from in order to offer them paying wages.  This company is not only a great product line but humanitarians as well!           

VoilaVe

VoilaVe is actually a company that found me! And let me tell you I have not been disappointed one bit!  I have literally sampled EVERY product from this line.  Took about half the year to do it, but nonetheless it truly was well worth it.  This company is 100% USDA and Eco Certified Organic.  They do not test on animals and are all made in the USA.  They offer face serums from pure Hyaluronic Acid, to their 4oz Argan Oil, Rosehip Oil, Triple Action Vitamin C Serum to Eye Cream.  Their best product that I literally rave about is there Dead Sea Mud Mask.  I use this product twice a week without fault.  The majority of their products are 99% natural and they truly stand behind their products by not ever using scents, alcohols, fillers, binders or any form of ingredients that can cause collagen breakdown or free radical cell damage.  I use their products every day and have truly been amazed by their results.  I am so grateful that they reached out to me and gave the opportunity to sample their line.  If you want to try an all natural line, trust me this is it!!   

Cosmetic Skin Solutions

I started using Cosmetic Skin Solutions (CSS) when I first wanted to try a product with 1% retinol and a vitamin C + E serum as well.  This company is very comparable to skinceuticals but for literally a fraction of the cost.  You see no company can ever justify charging hundreds of dollar for a simple yet effective vitamin C serum.  I will not pay above $40 for any type of serum that contains the same ingredients you find in a $20 one.  CSS makes sure to not only make products that contain quality ingredients, but products that also have proven results with affordable pricing.  I have also tried their Hydra B Masque Advance Formula, and their Day Moisturizing Creme with great results.  These two creams helped to restore my face last summer when I suffered a horrific allergic reaction that literally burned my face and left it peeling.  This company also stays away from using products that contain alochol, scents, dyes and so on.  The majority of their products are properly packaged in order to keep the ingredients stable.   I love this company and love using their products every chance I get!

 If you shop from their site and use their promo code CSSPROMO you get 5% off all your purchases.  

So their you have it, my top six skincare companies worth trying out.  Let me know if you have tried any of these companies or other ones that offer quality ingredients with great prices and good shipping!

Keep Smiling!

Dayana

FTC: I was not paid for writing this post and all opinions are my own.  Post does contain affiliated links.

Read More

Poppy Austin Revitalizing Eye Cream Review

Poppy Austin Revitalizing Eye Cream - $22.50 US

I received this product as part of an advertorial. 

Poppy Austin is a company I have fallen in love with over the last year!  They make great products that not only work but are sensible and safe for the skin. So far with the exception of one ingredient that they used in one of their products, I don't have a single complaint about the company.  

The eyes, hands and neck are the first thing to reveal your age as we get older.  So its important that you always use properly formulated products that will make a difference in those areas.  I normally use retinol around my eyes, however being pregnant its a 'no no'.  So instead I have to pick other products that are just as effective without potentially harming the baby.

When I saw that Poppy Austin came out with an eye cream I was so psyched to try it.  However when I realized that I was going to have the chance to review it as well, I was totally over the moon.  This product contains "organic Aloe, organic Jojoba Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Rosehip Oil, Green Tea, Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Tamanu Oil" to name a few.  It also lacks all the silly fillers, alochol and other ingredients that are harmful to the skin!

I started using this around my eye area four weeks ago and I have to say I am amazed at the results.  It has helped greatly with puffiness, tackling my very fine lines and wrinkles and seriously hydrating my eye area.  I was amazing when one day I touched my eye and realized just how awesome it felt!  It felt literally like fine silk I kid you not.  I couldn't stop touching my eyes and get over how soft my skin felt. I love the fact that it has NO smell to it which is great. Fragrances in skincare products are actually harmful to the skin and break down collagen.  Moreover fragrances around the eyes are a serious potential irritant.   So its important to me that all my skincare products be fragrance free. 

 Now in regards to dark circles there was no help there are dark circles are genetic and no eye cream can help with that.  That is a proven medical fact that in order to get rid of dark circles only plastic surgery works in that area.  However lack of sleep and dehydrating helps to make them look worse.  So while this did nothing to help with my dark circles, however it did hydrate the skin well enough on days I was lacking on sleep so it didn't look any worse. So that was truly a bonus for me! Any help in the dark circle area works for me.  

Another bonus is that this eye cream isn't your normal small size bottle.  While it isn't large, however for the price you get a decent amount.  I hate buying eye cream that comes in a tiny jar and paying a lot for hardly nothing.  Moreover this eye cream comes in an air tight and light protected pump bottle.  So the integrity of the product remains stable and doesn't lose it value since no air or light gets into it.  I personally NEVER use a cream product form of any kind that comes in a jar.  Reason is with its constant exposure to light and air (not to mention bacteria from your hands) it breaks down and destabilizes the ingredients.  So I appreciate that Poppy Austin understands not only about using quality ingredients but how to protect them when it comes to packaging.

I would totally recommend this product if you can't or don't want to use a retinol product and are in the market for a good eye cream.  

Keep Smiling!

Dayana

FTC: While I received this product for review, I was not paid for my post and all opinions are solely my own. 

Read More

September Favorites!

September is an awesome month!  Its when Fall returns and the leaves turn a beauty shade of Autumn colors!  Its a great time to start working on your makeup Fall looks!  Plus its also time to look further into your skincare routine and ramp it up.  Since the cold wear is approaching, its always good to start taking care of your skin now!  So Jenny and I decided to put together a few products for your makeup needs and skincare routine!

VoilaVe Triple Action Vitamin C Serum - $19.95 US

VoilaVe is a company that sells only quality products with quality ingredients.  My vanity is slowly morphing over to being a small VoliaVe display.  I so far have used all the products they have sent me for review and have replaced a lot of my other facial skincare products with there's.  This serum is a triple action vitamin c that also contains hyaluronic acid.  Come on, you know it doesn't get any better than that!  This leaves my skin feeling awesome and contains two products in one for that triple action punch!  Click here for the the full review on this product!

Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara - $23.00 US

Let me start off by saying, when it comes to loving a product the price shouldn’t really matter! I have a huge collection of mascaras (I swear every promotional gimmick gets me) that in all honestly I’ve wasted so much money on. I heard about this Too Faced mascara and read countless of great reviews.  So I figured why not! It’s not too expensive, it was actually under the $30 mark.

I ordered mine from the site and the shipping was fast and the packaging was pretty amazing! When I opened my box of goodies I grabbed the mascara first; it came with a travel size too!! The wand is super pretty! It comes in a pink shade and looks like it’s made for a real make up junkie like myself.  The best part, was that the magic of this mascara was instant as soon as I applied this on my lashes.  I was instantly a satisfied customer! What I love this mascara, is that it doesn’t clump if applied correctly! Also you can go from wow to WOW by applying a second (or third) coat!! Either way it compliments any look you’re going for and a must have for even the most natural beauties!

Too Faced Shadow Insurance Primer -$20.00 US

I received this shadow insurance primer as a sample when I ordered some other make up from Too Faced.  I have never felt the need to try eye shadow primer before, but I was getting ready for my friends wedding and did not want to deal with touching up my eye make up. I tried the sample and did not need more than a dab for my eyes. This probably means this sample size will last me for a long time before I need to buy the full size tube. I found this primer to be very smooth and easy to apply. It dried quickly on my eyelids with no residue.  I applied my gold eye shadow for the wedding, and needless to say when I got home my make up looked untouched and fresh! I was impressed!!! I did not have to worry about creasing or the eye shadow wearing off like I do most of the time!! This eye shadow primer is really worth its weight in goal!

Poppy Austin Rosehip Oil - $25.25 US

I have been using Poppy Austin since the start of the year and have truly fallen in love with this company!  I love that fact that they make pure and organic products that really show a difference in results.  I started using this oil three weeks back and have been truly amazed by the results.  My skin looks brighter, hydrated, plump and refresh.  It doesn't leave an oily residual behind and absorbs quickly into the skin.  I would for sure recommend this product if you are in the market to try new oils and/or have skincare issues you are looking to correct as Rosehip oil helps to deal with hyperpigmenation, acne scars, dryness and eczema to name a few.  To read my full review on this product click here!

There you have it, our September favorites for the month! Let us know what you think and if you have tried any of the products mentioned here!

Keep Smiling!

Jenny & Dayana!!

Read More

Poppy Austin Rosehip Oil

Poppy Austin Rosehip Oil - $25.99 US

I have been using Poppy Austin products since the start of this year.  I found them all by accident while I was looking for a good Argan oil that wasn't outrageously priced.  Upon finding their website, I also noticed that they sold other great products and I for sure wanted to give them a try.  So when the company contacted me and asked me to try their Rosehip oil, I was game.  I have been dying to try Rosehip oil.  However the problem with this oil just like Argan oil is that it hard to find in its pure form.  Many companies tend to add many extra ingredients in these products that only tamper with the effectiveness of the oil.  Poppy Austin sells this oil in a pure organic form.  There is nothing added or taken away so what you buy is what you get.  Moreover, this comes in a 2oz bottle for an amazing price.

Rosehip oil has antioxidant properties which are amazing for the skin.  It helps to diminish the looks of fines lines and wrinkles. For those who suffer with hyper-pigmentation it works great as it helps to correct dark spots, uneven skin tone and dryness.  It helps to greatly reduce acne scars, stretch marks, eczema and psoriasis.

When this arrived to my house, I noticed it came in a dark opaque bottle with a droplet.  Remember this is an antioxidant so it is sensitive to light and air.  So the dark bottle design keeps it from degrading.  The oil comes out like a dark burnt orange color which is kinda cool as I have never seen that type of color in a serum before.  The oil is not too runny but not thick either.  I would say its in between which is easy to spread on your face and doesn't glide off your hands when putting some in your palm for application.  You need about 3-4 drops to use on your whole face.  

I will admit, I have been using this oil for about 3 weeks now.  I normally NEVER write a review unless I use a product for a minimum of two weeks because I believe in long term results and not instant results.  In many cases instant results fade over time.  However with longer term results you will see a differences in your skin texture and feel.

The first time I applied this was at night.  I decided in order to give this a fair chance I stopped using my Poppy Austin Argan oil and Maracuja oil (not by Tarte) and only used my Rosehip oil.  When I woke up the next morning I wasn't expecting anything different just nice moisturized skin.  However I was shocked to see my skin results.  My face looked brighter, hydrated and just all around beautiful.  My skin looked plumped and moisturized.  Yet like I said earlier,  I believe in long term results versus instant.  So three weeks later I have to say the results are still there.  This oil is truly amazing.  I use this oil twice a day.  In the morning and in the night and my skin just looks and feels great.  There is no oily feeling left behind or nasty residue.

I have to say, for the fact that I was dying to try Rosehip oil and wasn't settling for just anything really made this product worth the wait.  I would really recommend this to someone who is interested in trying oils for their skincare routine and for those looking to tackle skincare issues.

Keep Smiling!

Dayana        

Read More

Top Five Facial Masks!

(Disclosure: this post contains a referral link)

I love facial masks! And in my books, nothing beats a well formulated and result proven mask.  I decided to round up all masks and do my top five facial masks for July!  So far this are the masks that have impressed me throughout the year!  These masks are great to use all year around and work well in hot and cold weather!  As an added treat the lovely and knowledgeable Diane Dalmasy over at My Fascination Street has decided to do a collaboration with me about about her top five facial masks!  Diane has great info on her site! Subscribe to her blog so you can stay tune to our up and coming further collaborations! 

Pure & Essential Minerals Dead Sea Mud Mask - $29.44 US

I don't even know where to beginning with this mask.  This by far has got to be my all time favorite.  Nothing I have used so far has been able to take this out of the number one spot!  This mask is literally 99% natural and organic.  It only has one ingredient that isn't natural, yet the rest completely is.   This mask is made up of dead sea mud plus other amazing ingredients like Organic Shea Butter, Organic Sunflower Oil, Organic Aloe Vera Juice, Organic Jojoba Oil,  Eucalyptus Oil and other properties that are beneficial for the skin.  Every time I use this mask which is once a week, my face literally looks poreless right after.  It leaves it feeling conditioned as soon as I wash away the mud and there is no tight dry feeling afterwards. This has never irritated my face nor caused any sort of allergic reaction.  While it does dry to a hard consistency, however it washes off easily, effectively and you see the results right away.  I honestly look forward to using this mask every Monday night after washing my face.  I just love this mask and I sing its praises!  However, just one word of caution.  Because this mask is 99% natural and organic, many people have complained that it has spoil on them after a few weeks of opening it.  To avoid that happening, just stick it in your fridge.  I have had this mask for almost two months now and it is in prefect working order.  Moreover, since it comes right out my fridge and on to my face, it has a lovely cool feeling when drying!  I highly recommend this mask!  For a full review of this mask, click here!  This dead sea mud mask is good on all skin types!

Paula's Choice Skin Balancing Oil Absorbing Mask - $17.00 US

I just love anything Paula's Choice makes.  The reason is because she is one of the few people who actually took time to well formulate her products in order to show effective non-irritant results.  This mask works to remove excess oil from your skin without causing it to dry out.  The formula in this masks helps to draw out and dislodge blackheads and other impurities without stripping the skin of it's natural moisture.  This mask is a clay like formula that when it dries to a hard consistency, it doesn't feel like it's going to break your face.  This mask contains ingredients such as sea whip extract, kaolin, Salix alba extract, bisabolol, glycerin, and colloidal oatmeal to name a few.  This mask is actually worth trying out!  This oil adsorbing mask is good for oily to combination skin!

(To sweeten the deal, if you decide to buy this mask or any product from the Paula's Choice site, click here on my referral link to receive $10.00 off anything you buy over $15.00!  So with shipping in the US you should be able to buy this mask for $9.00 more or less! Also, Paula's Choice has a money back guarantee in case you don't like it.  If you ask me that's a great deal!)

Poppy Austin Moroccan Rhassoul Clay - $19.95 US

Poppy Austin is a company I just love.  I heard about them a year ago when I looking for a good quality but decent priced Argan Oil.  Upon looking in their product list, I noticed that they were selling rhassoul clay.  I had never heard of that product before so it intrigued me.  So, as you know me, I set out on my research to investigate this product.  Poppy Austin's Rhassoul Clay is 100% pure and naturally infused with mineral-rich properties.  Moroccan ghassoul lava clay is high in silica which makes it great as a detoxifying cleanser for your face, hair and body.  It also conditions after each use. It helps to reduce dryness on the skin, draw out impurities by unblocking pores, and improve skin elasticity.  I use this mask once a week on a Friday.  I mix this with my Poppy Austin rose water (or you can use filtered water) until its nice and soft.  I apply it to my face and let it sit for about 30 minutes.  Afterwards I wash it off and my face is cleaned, conditioned and feels ever so soft.  I really like this mask for it natural mineral rich properties and cleansing benefits.  You can also use this mask on your hair if you suffer from dandruff.  This mask is worth every penny and offers great quality at a decent price for the awesome size of the jar!  I highly recommend this mask! Rhassoul clay mask is good for all skin types!

  
Colleen Rothschild Clarifying Detox Mask - $48.00 US

Colleen Rothschild Clarifying Detox Mask is a charcoal mask that helps draw out impurities from the skin.  It also contains MicroSilver which helps to promotes clearer skin after some time of usage.  Glycolic Acid which helps to increases cellular turnover on the skin surface level and Vitamin C which is an antioxidant.  This mask comes a soft consistency like texture in the color black.  I have to admit when I first opened it, the black color threw me off.  However as we all know in the name of beauty we never judge and just go for it!  This mask dries to a soft hard texture if that even makes sense.  After about 10-15 minutes from the time of application, you are still able to move your face and smile without the mask cracking which I thought was great.  It washes off clean with no problem and I have to say leaves your skin absolutely radiant.  So far I have tried this detox mask and her radiant cleansing balm (click here to read that review) and have not been disappointed!  This detox mask is good for all skin types!      

Michael Todd True Organic Rose Petal Mask - $34.00 US

This was one of the first masks I ever used that wasn't a drugstore brand.  When I saw this masks and realized that it had 10% Glycolic Acid (AHA), Vitamin C and Rosa Damascene Distillate ingredients, I knew I had to try it!  This mask comes in an air tight pump that helps to keep the ingredients inside stabilized.  It dispenses the most silkiest clear gel I have ever seen.  It applies smoothly to your face and dries ever so soft.  After about 10-15 minutes you wash it off and you face looks and feel so alive and radiant!  While this does have a scent of roses, nonetheless it wasn't so strong that it was hard to manage.  Since this mask has 10% AHA it helps with cellular turnover on  your skins top layer.  AHA needs to stay on the skin long enough to cause a true effect.  So when you use cleanser with AHA they rarely do anything because they get washed off in seconds.  I enjoy this mask so much and still have it sitting on my skin vanity.  This is one mask that use on days I want to feel luxurious!

Please note that all the masks I mentioned above; when frequent usage it is important that you wear sunblock afterwards.  Many of the ingredients in these mask which cause the skin to become ultra sensitive in the sun and burn.  So avoid always apply an SPF 30 and up that offers board spectrum protection.  Remember proper skincare is an everyday thing and not just once in the morning and night.  This rose petal mask is good for dry skin!

Well there you have it, my top five favorite masks! Let me know what your top five facial masks are by tagging Diane and me at #topfivefacialmasks

I hope you enjoy them as well!

Keep Smiling!

Dayana

Read More

July Favorites!

OMG can you believe July just flew by and now its August!!! I hope everyone is having a good summer so far!  Well believe it or not, I am actually posting my July favorites on time!

 

Poppy Austin Vitamin C Serum - $29.95 US

As you all know, I love Poppy Austin everything.  I own just about all their products.  This skincare line is amazing because they have actually taken the time out to put proper ingredients in their products that actually prove effective.  I recently tried out their Vitamin C with hyaluronic acid and was just impressed by this combination. Vitamin C helps to improve skin texture, uneven skin tone, fight against free radical cell damage, lightening dark spots and tons more benefits.  Their hyaluronic acid helps to plump up the skin, make it smooth and help with its elasticity.  This product is truly a gem and everyone should have one of these in their skincare drawer!  For a full review on this product click here!

Booty Parlor Pink Caviar Scrub with Pheromones - $21.43 US

When I heard about this company I knew I had try them out.  Coming from a psych background any product claiming that they had pheromones in them really peaked my interest.  I have to say this product smells amazing. I even blush every time I smell or think about this product.  It smells like soft sorbet raspberries with just a hint of lemon.  I apply this in the shower after using my regular body wash.  Once I wash and dry off, OMG my skin is soft for hours even without applying moisturizer.  It feels like a soft lovely oil left behind on your body that just feels decadent all day long.  I am writing a full review on product this week!  Click here for the full review!

Sally Hansen French Manicure White Tip Pen - $6.99 US

When I paint my nails on my hands, I normally only do the french manicure.  However living in Canada the price for a french manicure can cost anywhere between $25-$35.  Compared to when I lived in the NYC when it was at least 10 dollars cheaper, getting one done every two weeks can add up.  Upon perusing the alleys of Walmart, I found this pen that claimed it can give you a nice french manicure with little to no hassle.  I decided to try it out and sure enough my nails came out awesome. Sure I still needed to clean around the edges, but I had no mess, no crazy lines or nasty white chalky nail tips.  This is really worth getting and dried very quickly!

 Too Faced Melted Peony - $25.00 CDN

I love lip glosses and balms.  Lipstick is ok with me, but not my go to! However when I heard that Too Faced came out with these hybrid type lippies, I knew I had to try them.  They are very creamy with a long life wear.  They don't transfer easily and won't dry your lips out either.  You can get them in an array of colors.  I really like the Peony and Nude color.  I would for sure recommend these for the summer and just about all year around!


So there you have it my July favorites!

Keep Smiling!

Dayana   
  

Read More

Product of The Week: Poppy Austin Vitamin C Serum

Poppy Austin Vitamin C Serum - $29.95 US 

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

First let me start by saying I LOVE anything that Poppy Austin makes. So when Poppy Austin contacted Everything Beauty and Beyond to try out their Vitamin C serum I literally almost cried. And I am not saying that because they sent me a free bottle of Vitamin C.  Before I was even contacted by them I was already using their Argan Oil for my face and hair and loved it!! I love them because 1. They sell the real deal. Their products (vitamin C and Argan Oil) are all natural with nothing added or taken away.  2. The dollar amount for the size of product you get is amazing!  Their Argan oil for example is priced at $29.00 US versus their competitor which is $85 US for a much smaller bottle! Ok back to the Vitamin C review here!

One thing that I love about this product is that it contains Hyaluronic Acid.  Now I know a bunch of you out there use face serums and creams and have absolutely no clue what you are putting on your face. tsk tsk! You should ALWAYS read the back of the packaging label and google what the main ingredients are before applying it on your face.  Things like witch hazel, alochol, parabens, fragrances and perfume should never be applied to face or found in your facial products.  This are all signs of potential irritants for your skin.

So when I saw that Poppy Austin Vitamin C serum also had hyaluronic acid and jojoba oil I knew I had to try it.  When it arrived to my house I started using it every morning after my skincare routine but before I applied my sunscreen and makeup.  I have to say my skin looks and feels amazing.  I noticed that I was getting fine lines forming on the top of my forehead (gasp!!) and was trying desperately to get rid of them.  When I started using this product, I noticed that they diminished a bit and really looked less noticeable.  While we all know that nothing you do (expect a face lift) will get rid of lines and wrinkles, however there are things we can use like hyaluronic acid that can really help to mask them.  And yes this works like any other product; if you stop using it then your lines will 're-appear'.  So lets talk about the ingredients.  

Hyaluronic Acid is found naturally in the human body and seen tremendously in babies.   Ever wondered why babies and small children always look like they have beautiful supple plumpy skin?  Well its because of hyaluronic acid.  Its a major component of skin tissue that give babies this effect.  Skin in general holds about fifty percent of your body’s hyaluronic acid in it.  However as we get older we loss a lot of it and thus aging takes it toll.  Hyaluronic Acid  plumps and moisturizes skin as well as it helps to heal and comfort it when its damaged. Hyaluronic Acid also prevent fine lines and wrinkles from forming and helps the skin by retaining moisture and creating a cushion to help plump them out as we age.

Another thing that I love about this product as stated earlier is that it contains jojoba oil.  Jojoba oil is actually not an oil but a wax ester.  Because it is a wax ester it is hypothesized that jojoba oil is very comparable to human skin oil which manipulates the skin into thinking it has produced enough and balances out oil production.  Thus helping to give you only the added oil you need for your face and stopping the over production of sebum.  It is also not an antioxidant so it won't expire or go bad in a few months.  It is stable in that regard.  It also adsorbs well into the skin and doesn't leave it sticky, greasy or just plain nasty. 

Finally, the seller for me here was the Vitamin C.  Vitamin C is an antioxidant that is used to protect and help the face from wrinkles, sun damage, signs of aging, dark spots and brighten your complexion amongst other great benefits. Vitamin C can also help to prevent or treat hyperigmentation, defend against free radicals and brighten your skin. However with all the advantages of vitamin C, the only draw back is that because it is an antioxidant, it oxidizes itself very quickly and once this happens, it is no longer good. You will be able to tell by the color when this happens to your product. It normally starts off clear and then turns yellow.   

Poppy Austin has created an awesome youtube which clearly explains this products and the benefits of it.  Check out their Vitamin C Serum video on YouTube  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87qfKFHZmIQ.  However, you can also click below and watch directly from this blog!  In any case, it is extremely informative on what to look for when buy vitamin C serum and/or hyaluronic acid!!

Based on all these amazing properties is while I love love this product.  That and the product comes in a serum form in a dark bottle with a droplet in order to help it for oxidizing and bacteria.  Once Vitamin C hits air and light it starts to breakdown, so its good to see that Poppy Austin nailed it by packaging it correctly!

One final note.  When using Vitamin C; though it works great to protect you against sun and free radical cell damage, you MUST wear sunscreen everyday.  Vitamin C makes you skin very sensitive to sun rays. So make sure you are using an SPF 30 and up that is UVA/UVB Board Spectrum protection.  If not, then you will eventually get a "lovely" red sunburn effect look which for sure will hurt.  So keep this mind when using ANY Vitamin C.  Feel free to click here on my blog all about vitamin  C and how to properly care for your skin when using this product.

Lastly (and I swear this time) Vitamin C can be used by men and women.  So go ahead guys...give it a try! You won't regret it!

I just love Poppy Austin and plan to try out more of their products! 

Keep Smiling!

Dayana 

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Read More

Monday Madness: Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil vs. Poppy Austin Pure Argan Oil

I recently did a review on Argan oil, what it is and why its useful.  Click here to read that review.  Nonetheless, I decided to review two currently products out on the market who offer Argan oil and see how they match up.

I received a large sample size bottle of Josie Maran Argan oil with a purchase of my Clarisonic Aria.  I put it away in a drawer and didn't use it for almost a month.  However one day while googling the net, I decided to check out what Argan oil actually was and if this product was worth adding to my skincare routine.  This oil is also helpful for dry skin, cracked feet, dry hands, dry hair and so on.  It provides many great benefits then just for the face.

Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil - $29/$58/$125 CDN

I decided to try Josie Maran Argan oil out as my last step in my skincare routine morning and night.  I was amazed on just how awesome it made my skin feel after one use.  It moisturize my skin and didn't clog my pores.  It left behind no oily residue or awful smell.  It got rid of all my dry patches and really made my makeup go on beautiful with no dryness to emphasize.   

However, after much googling I realized that while it does provide amazing benefits, it is not the end all and say all of skincare.  Proper skincare involves other products and ingredients in order to help clean, clear and moisturize your face.  While this oil surely does provide great antioxidants to your skin and other great benefits, nonetheless the price tag on this oil for buying pure 100% Argan oil from Josie Maran is off the roof. 

While Josie Maran is for sure selling pure Argan oil, nonetheless you can buy the same exact product for less.  Argan oil is Argan oil no matter where you buy it as long as it is the real deal with nothing added.

 

Poppy Austin Pure Argan Oil - $26.55 USA

Poppy Austin sells the same thing, 100% pure Argan oil for almost double the size and a hell of a lot less in price.  This comes in a 2oz size for $26.55 which you can buy off amazon.com and have shipped for $7.00 to Canada.  This texture is light weight and the odor is very faint in a nutty kinda of way.  The bottle is dark with a droplet and has no added fillers in the formula.  It is very silky and smooth and didn't sit on my skin.  It absorbed nicely and didn't clog my pores or cause breakouts.  My skin felt moisturized and amazing after just one use.  I wasn't left looking oily either and underneath my makeup it gave my face a health glow.  

    

Garden of Wisdom Argan Oil - $9.96/$12.05/$31.60

Garden of Wisdom sells 100% Argan oil in three different sizes for a very reasonable price.  The oil is organic, cold pressed and bottled in a dark glass jar.  This oil comes in 1oz (jar and plastic bottle) and 4 oz bottle.  However due the components of the oil, I recommend you get the 1oz in the dark bottle with the droplet in order to protect the antioxidants from light and air. 

The truth is, nothing that Josie Maran or Poppy Austin is selling is actually new or different from Garden of Wisdom.  It is the same oil you can get at a health food store or anyone selling Argan oil.  So shop around before you decide to blow money on a product that you can find anywhere else for less.  However for me, Poppy Austin is a winner in regards to the cost, bottling and integrity of the oil.  I find their cost for a 2oz bottle reasonable and hence why I would pick this product over Josie Maran.

Keep Smiling!

Dayana

 

Read More

April Favorites!

So, for the month of April I ended up trying some amazing products that just really blew my mind away.  However its no surprise since it was my birthday this month, I figure I treat myself to all sorts of new, yummy and wonderful things!

Poppy Austin 100% Agran Oil - $26.55 USA 

No matter if your oily, normal or dry skin, everyone needs a moisturizer.  I have always used creams until I was given a sample of Josie Maran 100% Argan oil.  I used the oil every day for a month and saw how my dry patches on my face just floated away into nothing but pure and smooth moisturized skin.  However the price tag on it was just simply stupid.  A 1.7oz of Josie Maran Argan oil cost $58.00 CDN.  People, just in case for those who don't read the label, all this bottle has is 100% pure Agran oil....nothing more and nothing less.  Based on that I went hunting for something cheaper but that was still organic, cold press with no fillers or anything taken away.  I was delighted when I found Poppy Austin Agran oil.  For a bottle of 2oz the price came out to $26.55.  Shipping cost me $7.00 to Canada and I still saved a crap load of money.  I received a bringer bottle that was still the same thing Josie Maran was selling, only more realistic in price.  I would highly recommend this oil be added to your daily skincare routine.  It didn't clog my pores or make my face grease.  All you need is 2-3 drops of this oil to see the magic.  I mix it in with my daily cream moisturizer during the winter for an extra punch and/or with my face serum.  Its worth trying and for the price, you can't go wrong.

- See more at: http://everythingbeautyandbeyond.blogspot.ca/2014/04/10-must-have-beauty-products.html#sthash.HyE9fnhv.dpuf

Poppy Austin 100% Agran Oil - $26.55 USA 

No matter if your oily, normal or dry skin, everyone needs a moisturizer.  I have always used creams until I was given a sample of Josie Maran 100% Argan oil.  I used the oil every day for a month and saw how my dry patches on my face just floated away into nothing but pure and smooth moisturized skin.  However the price tag on it was just simply stupid.  A 1.7oz of Josie Maran Argan oil cost $58.00 CDN.  People, just in case for those who don't read the label, all this bottle has is 100% pure Agran oil....nothing more and nothing less.  Based on that I went hunting for something cheaper but that was still organic, cold press with no fillers or anything taken away.  I was delighted when I found Poppy Austin Agran oil.  For a bottle of 2oz the price came out to $26.55.  Shipping cost me $7.00 to Canada and I still saved a crap load of money.  I received a bringer bottle that was still the same thing Josie Maran was selling, only more realistic in price.  I would highly recommend this oil be added to your daily skincare routine.  It didn't clog my pores or make my face grease.  All you need is 2-3 drops of this oil to see the magic.  I mix it in with my daily cream moisturizer during the winter for an extra punch and/or with my face serum.  Its worth trying and for the price, you can't go wrong.

- See more at: http://everythingbeautyandbeyond.blogspot.ca/2014/04/10-must-have-beauty-products.html#sthash.HyE9fnhv.dpuf

Poppy Austin 100% Agran Oil - $26.55 USA 

No matter if your oily, normal or dry skin, everyone needs a moisturizer.  I have always used creams until I was given a sample of Josie Maran 100% Argan oil.  I used the oil every day for a month and saw how my dry patches on my face just floated away into nothing but pure and smooth moisturized skin.  However the price tag on it was just simply stupid.  A 1.7oz of Josie Maran Argan oil cost $58.00 CDN.  People, just in case for those who don't read the label, all this bottle has is 100% pure Agran oil....nothing more and nothing less.  Based on that I went hunting for something cheaper but that was still organic, cold press with no fillers or anything taken away.  I was delighted when I found Poppy Austin Agran oil.  For a bottle of 2oz the price came out to $26.55.  Shipping cost me $7.00 to Canada and I still saved a crap load of money.  I received a bringer bottle that was still the same thing Josie Maran was selling, only more realistic in price.  I would highly recommend this oil be added to your daily skincare routine.  It didn't clog my pores or make my face grease.  All you need is 2-3 drops of this oil to see the magic.  I mix it in with my daily cream moisturizer during the winter for an extra punch and/or with my face serum.  Its worth trying and for the price, you can't go wrong.

- See more at: http://everythingbeautyandbeyond.blogspot.ca/2014/04/10-must-have-beauty-products.html#sthash.HyE9fnhv.dpuf

Poppy Austin 100% Agran Oil - $26.00 USA

No matter if you have oily, normal or dry skin, everyone needs a moisturizer and Argan Oil is one of the best all natural moisturizer you can use! This oil is organic, cold press with no fillers or anything taken away. It doesn't clog your pores or make your face grease. All you need is 2-3 drops of this oil to see the magic. I mix it in with my daily cream moisturizer during the winter for an extra punch and/or with my face serum. Its worth trying and for the price, you can't go wrong. You can buy it off Amazon.com and have it shipped to Canada for $7.00.

Chantecaille The Coral Reefs Palette - $79.00 USA

I bought this eyeshadow palette off Ebay for $40. I really wanted it when I first saw it, however I was not willing to pay almost $80 for an eyeshadow palette. Nonetheless I love this palette. The shadows are so creamy, soft and just blend so easy on the eyes. They have a beautiful gold coral reef painted on each eyeshadow. However that is only temporary as once it rubs off, the gold sheen is gone. The colors are very pretty. The top two colors are eye shadows. The dark brown one is suppose to be used for eyeliner and the pretty dark peach color is blush. However I use them all as eyeshadow! This palette is truly just beautiful to look at!

Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder - $29.00 CDN

The Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder is amazing to apply to your under eye area. It helps to avoid your concealer from creasing and since the powder is finely milled it doesn't settle into the fine lines of your eyes. It's very creamy and distributes nicely underneath your eyes. It doesn't leave behind any glittery look. Instead what I did see was my dark under eye circles almost vanish. After I applied the LM brightening powder I was shock to see how my under eye area no longer look dark and dreary. Instead it looked alive, with color and bright. I would highly recommend this powder be used to set your under eye concealer if you are looking for a more alive and bright look which will help to hide the dark circles that your concealer might not be able to fully do!

Especially Escada Elixir - $58/$77/$104 CDN

When I first smelled this fragrance it automatically took me to a beautiful faraway land where roses laid on every bush in the garden that I walked through (in my mind). With waterfalls made of rose water that compared to simple bliss. This fragrance is very light weigh yet not too florally. It has a crisp scent that does not overpower your sense of smell and the thought of rose gardens are on your mind. It really does remind you of walking in a field of roses. So if you are in the market for a new scent, I highly recommend you try this product.

Color Your Smile Lighted Up Gloss Nude - $24.00 USA

This lip gloss is one of a kind. Not only is the color beautiful, but it also has two amazing functionality. If comes with a very decent mirror on the back of the lip gloss which works amazing to look at while you are applying the product. It also has a set of lights on the lip gloss top itself. When you open up the gloss the lights turn on so that you can see yourself in the mirror as you apply it. Great for using when you are in a dark room! The color of this lip gloss is a beautiful nude. It glides on creamy and has good staying power. These lip glosses come in other lovely colors and worth checking out.

  

Chanel Correcteur Perfection Long Lasting Concealer - $40.00 CDN

This concealer has some of the best staying power and cover up I have every seen. It last all day without streaking or disappearing throughout the day. It glides on creamy and soft and blends in amazingly. It comes in three different colors to work with certain skin tones. The packaging is quite simple and the product is very easy to apply. It comes in a fairly standard size tube with a decent amount of product. I have tried so many concealers in my time and this Chanel long lasting concealer is true to its name and just amazing!

Well there you have it! My April Favorites!

Keep Smiling!

Dayana

No matter if your oily, normal or dry skin, everyone needs a moisturizer.  I have always used creams until I was given a sample of Josie Maran 100% Argan oil.  I used the oil every day for a month and saw how my dry patches on my face just floated away into nothing but pure and smooth moisturized skin.  However the price tag on it was just simply stupid.  A 1.7oz of Josie Maran Argan oil cost $58.00 CDN.  People, just in case for those who don't read the label, all this bottle has is 100% pure Agran oil....nothing more and nothing less.  Based on that I went hunting for something cheaper but that was still organic, cold press with no fillers or anything taken away.  I was delighted when I found Poppy Austin Agran oil.  For a bottle of 2oz the price came out to $26.55.  Shipping cost me $7.00 to Canada and I still saved a crap load of money.  I received a bringer bottle that was still the same thing Josie Maran was selling, only more realistic in price.  I would highly recommend this oil be added to your daily skincare routine.  It didn't clog my pores or make my face grease.  All you need is 2-3 drops of this oil to see the magic.  I mix it in with my daily cream moisturizer during the winter for an extra punch and/or with my face serum.  Its worth trying and for the price, you can't go wrong. - See more at: http://everythingbeautyandbeyond.blogspot.ca/2014/04/10-must-have-beauty-products.html#sthash.HyE9fnhv.dpuf

Poppy Austin 100% Agran Oil - $26.55 USA 

No matter if your oily, normal or dry skin, everyone needs a moisturizer.  I have always used creams until I was given a sample of Josie Maran 100% Argan oil.  I used the oil every day for a month and saw how my dry patches on my face just floated away into nothing but pure and smooth moisturized skin.  However the price tag on it was just simply stupid.  A 1.7oz of Josie Maran Argan oil cost $58.00 CDN.  People, just in case for those who don't read the label, all this bottle has is 100% pure Agran oil....nothing more and nothing less.  Based on that I went hunting for something cheaper but that was still organic, cold press with no fillers or anything taken away.  I was delighted when I found Poppy Austin Agran oil.  For a bottle of 2oz the price came out to $26.55.  Shipping cost me $7.00 to Canada and I still saved a crap load of money.  I received a bringer bottle that was still the same thing Josie Maran was selling, only more realistic in price.  I would highly recommend this oil be added to your daily skincare routine.  It didn't clog my pores or make my face grease.  All you need is 2-3 drops of this oil to see the magic.  I mix it in with my daily cream moisturizer during the winter for an extra punch and/or with my face serum.  Its worth trying and for the price, you can't go wrong.

- See more at: http://everythingbeautyandbeyond.blogspot.ca/2014/04/10-must-have-beauty-products.html#sthash.HyE9fnhv.dpuf

Read More