Beauty Favorites - December 2015

I've confessed many times, to my love of beauty products. I have some tried and true favorites that I will never give up but I'm always willing to try something new. Our tastes, skin and hair change as we age and finding new products that work for those changes can be key. Here are some of my recent favorite purchases.

Clockwise from top left: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8

Mizon Multi Function Formula All in One Snail Repair Cream
Ok, after you stop saying ewww or gross or whatever you're feeling, I will tell you about this amazing product. Last spring, I began reading about the Korean skincare revolution and how it was sweeping the U.S. I started doing research. Most articles recommend a 10 step routine. I'm diligent about my skin but I knew that 10 steps would not happen daily in my world. I decided to pick some key items to try. One of the items that was recommended was an All in One cream. This article called out this cream by Mizon, specifically. By the way, the author is incorrect. Snail mucin is actually, the secretion from the snail (not their guts). The cream is more of a gel and you don't need much. A little goes a long way. Hands down, it's the made more difference in my skin than anything I've ever used. I have tiny bumps (a form a cystic acne) that form on my skin, no matter how much I wash. They never get red but at times, they darken a bit. This cream has eliminated them! It's also faded many of my dark spots and it's a great light weight moisturizer (I apply it morning and night). I'm on my second jar and I don't see it ever leaving my beauty regime. Friends have even asked what I've been using. Which I always take as a great sign.

Nexxus Therappe Rebalancing Shampoo
I was offered this shampoo and the other two Nexxus products to try. I was a bit skeptical because I've tried moisturizing shampoos in the past and they left my hair lifeless and limp. They added too much residue. This shampoo is fantastic! It doesn't add that weight or residue. It leaves my hair clean and shiny. It's highly concentrated, so I only need a small amount. I'm sure I will be buying more when the bottle is finished.

Nexxus Humetress Restoring Conditioner
When you have fine, dry hair, conditioning is like walking a tight rope. You need the conditioner or your hair will look like straw but if you use too much or the wrong kind your hair will look flat and a bit greasy. This conditioner is great. I still can't use too much but when I use it, my hair has body and it's moisturized. It has a thick consistency but it's not too greasy for my fine hair. My hair has bounce and shine. I'm impressed.

Nexxus Humectress Luxe Lightweight Conditioning Mist
You wouldn't think this super light, water like mist would be moisturizing, but it is! I spray it on after I wash my hair, before I blow dry. I also sometimes mist my hair with it in the morning before I curl it. I don't know what little miracles they use to make this mist but it's great. I love that even though it's a leave in, that it's not heavy. I really love that it gives my hair sheen without oil.

BaByliss Pro Nano Titanium 1" Curling Iron
My curling iron died and I went in search of a new one. I had read that BaByliss curling irons were great and curled even the most hard to curl hair. My hair curls but the curl would never last. This model got some great reviews, so I decided to give it a try. My curl now lasts two days! In fact, I love my second day curl even better. It looks like a natural wave and it's perfect. My hair doesn't look fried after I use the iron. In combination with the Nexxus Conditioning Mist, my curls look even better.

Paula Dorf Special Camouflage
A beauty blogger recommended peach/orange concealer for dark circles. Sometimes even my holy grail Cle de Peau concealer doesn't totally cover my dark circles, without being too heavy. I decided to give the peach option a try. You wouldn't believe how hard it is to find peach concealer. I looked at tons of brands and places. Only a few even make that color and the ones that do, were no where to be found. I came upon this Paula Dorf version. It also contains a yellow concealer, which I thought would be great. The yellow is much too dry to be used alone. I mix it with the peach at times or with an eye cream. The peach has a creamy consistency that I like and add to my dark circle cover, when I need extra help.

Maybelline the Blushed Nudes eyeshadow palette
Usually I purchase an eyeshadow palette, loving the concept of combining different colors and end up only using 4 or 5 colors. With the exception or two colors, I use all of the colors in the palette regularly. The colors are neutral and have great color but they aren't too dark. They compliment my fair skin well. I love mixing the pinkish tones with the browns and grays.

Missha M Magic Cushion No. 23
One of the other Korean beauty products that gets rave reviews are their foundation cushion compacts. I'm super picky when it comes to foundation. I can't stand anything that is heavy, greasy or cakey but it has to have good coverage and look natural. It seems that every time I find a foundation I love, it's discontinued. For years I was a fan or Urban Decay foundation but their formulas have completely changed and I don't love their current options. Reviews were great for the Missha cushion. I love it. It gives me great coverage and looks natural. There are only two colors and they are both very fair. If you don't have super fair skin, you will need to look at other brands. The compact is refillable and comes with an applicator sponge.

Those are my current beauty picks. Let me know if you have any questions.

Treating Scars and Stretch Marks Naturally

We all have them but we rarely talk about them. They are part of life but most of us find them unsightly or embarrassing. I worked in restaurants for years and because of that, I have quite a few scars (from cuts and burns). I also have some stretch marks. None of the remedies I've tried have really worked for me. I was given the opportunity to try InstaNatural's Advanced Repair Scar Gel and Powerful & Moisturizing Stretch Mark and Scar Cream.

I was especially interested in lessening the appearance of a scar I've had on my hand for some time. It's from a kitchen burn, many years ago.

I applied the Scar Gel to the scar of my hand twice a day (morning and night) for two weeks. I apologize for failing to get a before picture. The photo above was taken after two weeks of use. As you can see, the scar is still visible but it's much lighter. I like the gel isn't harsh.  The results have taken some time but I haven't had any irritation, redness or skin peeling, like I had with the other products I've used.

The gel has an odd scent but it is not unpleasant. It has a thinner consistency than I expected but you don't need to use a large amount. A little goes a long way and I'm sure the bottle will last for a long time. I've barely made a dent in it.

I also tried the stretch mark cream on the stretch marks that I have on my breasts.  I noticed some softening of the marks but not a significant change. It has a pleasant scent and the cream is extremely moisturizing.

I will keep using both of these products to test out the long term results. The Advanced Repair Scar Gel, in my opinion, is a great product for those with sensitive skin. It's working for me, without any irritation. I'm hoping for lessening of my stretch marks, but I will keep you posted.

Note: I received InstaNatural Scar Gel and Stretch Mark & Scar Cream, in exchange for my review. The opinions expressed in this post are my own.

InstaNatural Eye Gel and More - A Review

Each time I try a new InstaNatural product, I wonder why I've only recently discovered this fantastic company and their products. This time I got the opportunity to InstaNatural's Youth Express Eye Gel. In addition, I was also able to try their Youth Express Eye Serum and Advance Action Retinol Moisturizer.

I have been using Youth Express Eye Gel each morning and I've been very happy with the product and results. The cooling feeling is great to depuff my eyes and it has helped to diminish the fine lines around my eyes. I've noticed a slight diminishing of my dark circles. To be fair, my dark circles are chronic, I have yet to find an eye product that lessens them drastically.

I've been using the Retinol Moisturizer every night after washing my face, along with the Youth Express Eye Serum.

All of these products have been fantastic and would be great additions to anyone's beauty regime. Both products can be used morning and evening. I've been using the Youth Express Eye Gel in the morning and the Youth Express Serum in the evening. This has worked really well for me. I used the Retinol Moisturizer both morning and night. I've noticed a evening effect in my skin tone and my skin feels smoother, overall.

I love that InstaNatural's products are made in the USA and are not tested on animals. Their products are also free of alcohols, sulfates or parabens. Being the product junkie that I am, it's wonderful to find a company and products that I feel good about using and they actually work well, if not better than some of the more expensive products I've tried over the years. Their products are available exclusively online either via their website, or on Amazon.com.


Note: I received these products in exchange for my review. The thoughts I've expressed here are my own. In fact, you'll remember that a few weeks ago I published this post about their Argan Oil hair mask and Pure Argan Oil and Vitamin C Serum. I loved the Vitamin C Serum so much (and so did {msL}) that it's empty and I ordered a new bottle.

Frugal Fashion Friday - Good To the Last Drop

Today's Frugal Fashion Friday is really Frugal Beauty Friday. Isn't your beauty routine part of your overall fashion look? I've told you many times about my obsession with trying new beauty products. I decided this weekend that I need to do a clean out soon. My bathroom is full of partially used products. A purge is in order. There are however, products that I use to the very end. They are my tried and true products that if I run out of them, panic may set in. I have been known to cut a bottle open or scrape out the last bit from a tube.

clockwise from top left - 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9

John Frieda Full Repair Shampoo - My fine hair is dry but because it's so fine, I have to be careful with conditioner. This shampoo has been a lifesaver, it moisturizes my hair without weighing it down, before I even condition.

Wet n' Wild Brow & Eye Liner - I have thin brows. I've tried lots of options but this pencil is my best tool. I lightly run it across my brows so that the hairs pick up the pigment and then smudge it with a small brush. It helps to keep my brows from looking drawn on or cakey. Bonus it comes in four different shades of brown and black and it only costs, 99 cents!

L'Oreal Elnet Satin Hairspray - This is the first hairspray I've ever used that doesn't make my hair feel like a helmet. It brushes out easily for restyling but miraculously it has a strong hold. It rarely goes on sale but you can find $3 off coupons in the paper every few months.

Drugstore Mascara - Right now I'm loving Maybelline Lash Sensational mascara. You may have seen my post on instagram. Frankly, I'm not loyal to one mascara but there is one sure thing, I always grab it at the drugstore. I've tried expensive mascaras but have never found any that are worth the price. My favorites have always come from the drugstore. Plus if you don't like it, take it back! CVS, Duane Reed/Walgreens, and Ulta all have great return policies.

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser - This cleanser is gentle and thorough. It will take off stubborn make up but isn't harsh on my sensitive skin. It's also great for your body if you have an irritations or dry patches.

Clinique Black Honey Almost Lipstick - This lipstick has been called the universal shade and praised by makeup artists for looking great on everyone. I just know it looks good on me, no matter my skin tone (winter or summer). It's been a never fail beauty bag staple since I bought my first tube in the mid 90's.

Clé de Peau Beauté Concealer - If I was only allowed to keep one items in my makeup arsenal, this would be it. I have chronic dark circles and this concealer is my holy grail. Everyone I know says it's way too expensive. For me, it's worth every penny. One tube lasts me almost a year. I only use a tiny bit each day. The coverage is amazing.

Curel Daily Moisture Lotion - My favorite lotion. The scent isn't heavy. It's a great inexpensive moisturizer and it's never greasy. I always have a back up bottle ready.

Clio Kill Black Waterproof Eyeliner - This liner is a new favorite. As you know, a nude eye and black liner are my every day eye staples. It's a classic look that I love. I've tried tons of eyeliners, pencils, gel, and brushes. I like pen liners the most because of their precision. I read about Clio Kill Black a month or so ago. A beauty editor said she can't live without it for her signature cat eye. I tracked it down on Amazon and have used it every day since. My first pen is going strong but I already ordered a second one, to ensure I don't run out.

 

Some of these items may seem on the pricey side. For me, it's worth it to pay a bit more for some items because for me there is no substitute. I know I will use every last drop. It won't be another half used tube in my drawer or a product that I'm tired of using. I believe using a product to the last drop is a frugal trait and economical. I'm sure I've spent thousands over the years on products that I never finished using. In my efforts to streamline my life a little, these tried and true items are rising to the top. I will still look for the latest and greatest but these staples will always be by my side. 

What are your good to the last drop beauty items? 

Happy Friday Real Girls!

All About the Eyes

The quotations about eyes are endless.

"The eyes shout what the lips fear to say." - William Henry

"The eyes are the window to the soul." - traditional proverb

"I see my future when I look in your eyes." - KISS

 

For me, if my eyes don't look finished, I don't feel good. Some days that just means concealer and mascara. As many of your know I have been plagued with dark, under eye circles. I also have pale lashes. If I only chose a couple of make up products, after SPF, concealer and mascara would be on the top of my list. But there are other items that I've come to love recently and most days I do the whole eye (eyeshadow, mascara, liner, and concealer). I had to share some of old and new faves.

 

 

 

• Physicians Formula Sexy Booster Volume Mascara - The dense brush makes for long separate lashes. They don't feel clumpy and I love that the tube dispenses just the right amount.

• Cle de Peau Concealer (beige) - This is my holy grail. I could live without anything but this. It's the priciest item a buy but one tube lasts me a year and I use it every day, sometimes more than once a day. It's the only concealer I've ever found that covers my dark circles and I've tried them all. It'd very dense but it covers anything.

• Revlon Colorstay Skinny Eyeliner (black) - The tiny brush is perfect for a barely there line or to do a great cat eye, without ending up with terrible smudges. It stays on all day.

• Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion (anti - aging) - I'm a huge fan of Urban Decay and especially the Eyeshadow Primer. I have oily eyelids and it's the only thing that makes my eyeshadow stay put all day. Without it my eyeshadow is history in a few hours.

• ROC Rentinol Correxion Sensitive Eye Cream - I apply eye cream day and night. This one really works and it's still gentle. It also provides a great base for my concealer.

• Maybelline The NUDES palette - I debated about buying this palette because I didn't love all of the colors. I've surprised myself. I use most of them on a regular basis. Because I love bright lipstick so much, I always lean toward a more neutral eye. It even has a guide on the back that illustrates different shadow combinations.

Most of these products can be found at your local drugstore. Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer is available at Ulta and Sephora and Cle de Peau is available at high-end department stores like Nordstrom and Saks.

 

photo credit (back of package) - Nouveau Cheap



Latest Drugstore Beauty Favorites

I'm a self-professed product junkie. I love trying the latest and greatest. Needs and wants change and because of that, I am flexible with my beauty routine and the products I use and try. There are some items that I stick with, no matter what (like my Cle de Peau concealer).  Some new products disappoint but others are standouts. I thought I'd share some of my favorites with you.




Click the photos above for buying information.

 

1. Revlon Age Defying CC Cream - A favorite magazine raved about this CC cream. I love the coverage but it's not too heavy. I like CC creams in the summer because they are lighter than the traditional foundation I tend to use during the winter months. They are also one step with color, moisturizer and sunscreen, all in one. I've tried BB creams and CC creams. This is my favorite, so far.
2. Revlon Just Bitten Balm Stain - This isn't a new product but I love the bright pink of the color, Lovesick. It has staying power and is a perfect bright summer pink. If bright colors aren't you, there are some pretty neutrals and lighter pinks.
3. Burt's Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream - It's super moisturizing for my dry cuticles and it smells great.
4. Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover - I think this is the holy grail of drugstore eye makeup removers. It removes even the most stubborn waterproof mascara without pulling. Even though it's oil-free it's still moisturizing.
5. Goody Tanglefix Brush - My fine hair tangles easily. When I was a kid my Mom battled with the horrible tangles in my hair. There were always tears. Now, due to the medicines I take and coloring my hair (getting gray sucks), my hair breaks easily. This brush is amazing! It works on dry or wet hair, with very little tugging. A friend who is African American told me that it also works great for her.
6. Tea Tree Oil - I mostly use this for my dry scalp. I mix a little with my conditioner, massage it in and rinse. It's also great for dry skin, sun exposure and many other things. A little goes a long way.  My first bottle lasted forever.
7. John Frieda Full Repair Shampoo - Adding blonde into my hair is great but it is drying. This shampoo helps to tame the fly aways and keep my hair strong.
8. L'Oreal Total Repair Extreme Recovery Mask - This is the thickest conditioner I've ever used. After my latest ombre coloring, the ends of my hair looked fried. Instead of giving in and getting the damage cut off, I tried an old technique. When I was teen, on the swim team, I used to douse my hair in conditioner at night, wrap it in a bandanna and rinse it when I woke up in the morning. I tried this technique on just the ends of my hair, using this treatment. It's working. My hair is looking better. It's shiny again and doesn't look damaged.

The most expensive product on the list is the Revlon CC cream. It's $13.99 but a small amount does your entire face. All of the rest of the products are under $10. I love beauty at a bargain!

Do you have any favorite drugstore products?

Try It Out - J'Adore Vox Box

I'm a product junkie and one of the things I love most about blogging is trying out the new products that I receive from companies and firms like Influenster. I received the J'Adore Vox Box and it contained quite a few products! Just call me your blogging guinea pig.

 

 

When I opened the box, I found six products. 

• Hershey's Kisses - I LOVE chocolate and Hershey's kisses are one of my all time favorites. {msL} helped me dig into the bag right away. We filled our candy dish with them and there are only a few left.
• Red Rose Simply Indulgent Tea - I received Lemon Chiffon and Creme Caramel. I admit I was a bit skeptical. I love tea but I don't add any sugar to my tea. Occasionally, I add some lemon but that's all. The prospect of tea inspired by desserts didn't sound great. I really enjoyed the Lemon Chiffon but even though caramel is one of my favorite flavors, the Creme Caramel wasn't a hit with me.  I think I'd like to try the Cinnamon Streusel but I didn't get one of those.
• Kiss Looks So Natural Lashes - Even as girly and make-up obsessed as I am, I'm a klutz when it comes to false lashes. I wore them on my wedding day but only because my hair stylist, who is also a make up artist, helped me. I gave these lashes a try and I have to say, I was impressed with the glue the most. The applicator and ease of use, where impressive. I love how the glue applicator has a wand and it goes onto the lash with a greenish hue, that dries clear. It made that part so easy. Then came the klutz part. There is no magic applicator for applying them to my lash line. I got them on and they are light and semi-natural looking thanks to their shape. They would have been great on my wedding day and will be good on special occasions.

• Boots Botanics Clay Mask - I rarely have breakouts but before trying this mask, I got the biggest pimple on my chin. I used the mask all over. Then I applied a dot onto the pimple, let it dry and left it on over night. My pimple was drastically reduced in the morning. I was impressed.
• John Frieda 3 Day Straight Flat Iron Spray - I don't have frizzy hair but I have terrible fly aways in the winter. I hoped that this spray would help with that issue. I tried it and it worked to tame my fly aways and fried ends (from my ombre color) but it was a bit much for my fine hair. It left it a bit flat. I'm sure for some of my full and curly haired friends, it would be fantastic. It was easy to use with just damp hair and a flat iron.
• Vaseline Men Spray Lotion - {msL} tried this product. She prefers men's cologne over women's and I thought this would work for her. She loved the application, she said it was easy. She also liked the scent, although she said if she put it on, she'd have to refrain from using any other scent that day. The lotion scent is very strong, but pleasant. She liked the moisture and I liked how soft it made her skin.

I was pleased with most of the products that I received through +Influenster. Many worked well for me and I enjoyed trying them.

Note: I received these products through the Influenster program, for the purpose of my feedback and review. All thoughts and comments are my own. If you're interested in joining, Influenster, leave a comment below or email me at: realgirlrunway@live.com

Avon Mega Effects Mascara Review and GIVEAWAY - CLOSED

This Giveaway is CLOSED.

Mascara can make or break your makeup look.  As someone with short lightly colored lashes, mascara is an essential for me. Because of this I am always looking for the latest and greatest mascara. I've tried lots of department store brands but I've found that the economical brands are great and cost less. When I read and saw the buzz about AVON Mega Effects mascara, I knew I had to try it. Lucky for me I have a great AVON connection. My college roomie, Pam, is an AVON representative. She offered to send me a tube to try and a tube to give to one of you! Oh and she also threw in a great little makeup case.

 

My overall verdict is that I love the results. I got these lashes with the mascara only. I didn't use an eyelash curler. It's rare that I am able to achieve lashes this long and full without a curler and with only one mascara (I ususally use two).

I found the wand a bit hard to get used to but once I did, I found it easy to control. I was able to get to the corners of my eyes easier. It was great that I could use the wand straight or at several angles. This allowed me to achieve better results. I wiped off a bit of the excess mascara before applying and found that helped to ensure my coverage was less sloppy.

I'd definitely buy this mascara again. The results and innovative design make it a bargain for $10! Would you like to win your own tube and a fun little makeup case?  Enter the giveaway below. You can enter until midnight on Thursday.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

If you've tried AVON Mega Effects mascara, let me know what you think.  I'm definitely a fan.



NOTE: All opinions expressed in this post are my own. I was provided a tube of AVON Mega Effects mascara in exchange for my review.

Late Summer Beauty Wishes

As a self-professed product junky, I'm always trying out the latest products or products that I haven't tried yet. Maybe it's my ADD or just the fact that I get bored easily.  I'm always looking for the newest thing. Luckily, I'm not like that with {msL}. Seven years and still going strong. Because of this beauty fickleness (is that a word?), I have a constant running list of products I want to try. These are on my current list.

Click photos above for buying information.

From top left...

Urban Decay Naked Basics eyeshadow - My daily eye shadow is very neutral. I pale cream, tan or pink on my lid and brown in the crease.  I may be the only blogger who doesn't own this shadow but when my friend Alison of Wardrobe Oxygen said she was a new fan, I added it to my list. She favors a natural make up look (like I do) with a bold lip.  I'll be trying it out on my next trip to Sephora or Ulta.

Gelous Advance Nail Gel Coat - I've read quite a few reviews on this base/top coat that can give you a gel like manicure at home, without the lengthy removal process. You can use it with any polish.  I've heard tales of it wearing anywhere from one week to two weeks. At only about $6 per bottle (from Sally Beauty) it's worth a try. It will have to be stellar to surpass my love of Revlon ColorStay.

Yes to Grapefruit CC Cream - I'm a big fan of BB and CC creams. They give great moisture to my over 40 skin and nice coverage (in most cases).  Lara of The Glossarie (one of my fave beauty blogs) listed this CC cream on her new drugstore faves. She tests out tons of products and if she is giving it raves, I have to try it.

Murad Instant Radience Eye Cream - Another recommended product from Lara. She had me at "blurs dark circles" and "I don't leave home without it."

Avon Mega Effects Mascara - There has been tons of buzz about this mascara and it's quirky brush. It's gotten some great reviews and I'm dying to try it. Lucky for me my college roomie is an Avon representative! Stay tuned!

Summer Beauty

During the warm summer months I switch up my makeup.  In the winter my skin needs more moisture.  In the summer, my former teenage skin kicks in and if my makeup is too heavy, I feel greasy. I also gravitate toward less eye makeup, unless I'm going out at night.  Liquid, winged eyeliner doesn't fly at the beach.

Click the photos above for information.

BB cream is my new buddy. I've tried several and this version by Maybelline is my favorite, so far. It's light, gives good coverage and strikes the right balance of moisture and non-greasy. I always wear eyeliner and Revlon's ColorStay pencil, stays put even in the heat. I'm a new fan of Revlon Lash Potion mascara. I received it to try out and it's great. When I'm swimming or at the beach, I use Maybelline Lash Stiletto Waterproof in brownish/black. It gives my lashes color without looking too made up. Revlon's Photo Ready cream blush in Flushed works great on my summer skin. It's a pretty pink (there are two other colors) that lasts.  No matter the time of year, I'm never without my Cle de Peau concealer.  It covers my dark circles and any other issues, it's also water resistant.  During warmer months, I ditch my colored polish in favor of nude and I use bright colors on my toes. I love colorful polish with my sandals.

We have a pool and we spend time at the beach, so I'm outside constantly. I always wear hats but I also add a much higher SPF sunscreen to my routine. Last but not least, I always start with a high level SPF.  Neutrogena is my all time favorite.  The Ultra Sheer Liquid in SPF 70 is light, gives great protection and my dermatologist swears by the brand.

Do you switch up your makeup routine during the summer?

Beauty Product Overload

Lately I've been feeling a bit stifled by the clutter in my life. I'm not exactly sure why it's hitting me now but it doesn't matter. My wonderful Dad was the king of clutter. He saved everything that could be useful. He was a handyman and used many of those old parts and things to do repairs later.  There were lots of other items that weren't useful and just took up space.  When my parents retired and moved out of the house where I grew up, truck loads of items were purged.  Because I have that "saving" gene, I have to force myself to clean out and purge on a regular basis.  I could start in almost any room but our bathroom drawers of  beauty products, makeup and nail polish are filled to overflowing.  It's nuts.  This weekend I'm going to start purging.

These are just a few of the idea I've collected on my Get Organized! Pinterest board. I could start almost anywhere in the house but because the bathroom is an important part to the start of my day, it's my first choice.  I'm also going to purge items I don't use or haven't used in a long time.  Makeup doesn't last forever and I'm sure that I have lots of products that are long past their expiration date. 

photo credit: her social network - Nicole Moulton

Once makeup is opened and used, it collects bacteria that can be harmful.  I know that I can toss lots of products, using this list as a guide. Deciding to purge has also made me think about the products that I use daily and can't live without.  There are items I use occasionally but when it comes to my daily items, I have my favorites. In November, I did a post about my daily beauty items.  I didn't outline all of them but these are my core. It makes me pause and think about what I really need and what I use regularly. 

It also made me consider hosting a beauty product swap.  I can't be the only one that has products I've only used once or twice but can't stand tossing.  I could come up with some rules and guidelines (things like no eye or lip products and that if opened, the item can't be more than six months old).  It's a thought. I'll have to ask my friends if they'd be interested. 

I'm sure it's a bit cliche to get organized at the start of a new year.  Maybe it is, but I think that anytime you make your life and home a better place, it's a good thing.  Are you planning to do similar thing to improve your quality of life?

Daily Beauty Tools

I'm a product junkie. Trying the latest and greatest is a priority.  So when I stick with a specific product or type of product for a long time, I know it's crucial and I'm in love. I've had questions about my beauty and skin care and thought I'd share my daily go to routine and products.

Cle de Peau Beaute concealer / Maybelline Mascara / Mary Kay eye shadow /Liquid eye liner / L'Oreal Paris Elnett hairspray/ Revlon Just Bitten Lipstain

I've mentioned before that I'm anal about my skin care routine.  I wash my face and moisturize every night.  I use eye cream and I use sunscreen daily. My sunscreen, moisturizer and eye cream vary because I need more help at different times of the year.  I use Cetaphil to wash my face. It's gentle and cleanses thoroughly without stripping oil from my skin. Clean, moisturized skin helps your makeup look great and last.

FACE
My favorite foundations are those that give good coverage without feeling heavy.  This spring I discovered Revlon Photo Ready Airbrush Foundation.  It's super light but gives great buildable coverage. Dark under eye circles have been an issue for me my entire life.  I tried every product imaginable until I read about Cle de Peau concealer and took the expensive plunge.  I've been using it ever since.  It's hands down the best concealer for dark circles.  It gives amazing coverage and the tube lasts forever. I apply both my foundation and concealer with a brush.

EYES
Most days, I'm pretty consistent with my eye makeup.  I save the bold eyes for evening.  I use neutral colors on my eyes, cream on my entire lid, highlighter on the brow and in the inner corner and granite on the crease. Mary Kay Granite is my all time favorite eye shadow. It's dark enough to give dimension but doesn't over power my eyes and make them look too dark (an issue for someone with dark circles).  I even use it for a lighter version of a smokey eye. I add black liquid liner.  Liquid works best for me because of the great staying power.  I finish with two types of mascara. I learned this from a make up artist. The two types compliment each other. First I layer volumizing mascara. Then I add lengthening mascara.

LIPS
I love a bold lip. Fuchsias, plums, and reds are my friends.  Revlon Kissable lip stain is great. It lasts but doesn't feel stiff or chalk like. It comes it some fantastic bold colors. Crush is my new favorite, it's a pretty plum, for fall.

HAIR
My hair is fine and straight. I use several products to give it volume and texture.  Even when I'm just doing a simple style, like curls, long and straight or a pony tail, I add a blast of  L'Oreal Elnett.  It's a bit on the pricey side for drugstore hairspray but it's the best.  It has staying power and holds my style but never feels stiff. It's easy to redo my hair with a just a quick run of the brush or comb.  Even when I apply it more heavily for an updo, I don't have trouble brushing my hair out at the end of the night.

Those are my must have beauty tools.  What are yours?

Rewind Via Instagram - Mid February

The last few weeks have been fun and busy. Tuesday will be a nutty day so I thought I'd share some of my favorite photos from the recent past. These were taken via Instagram (an iPhone app).  You can view all of my Instagram photos here.  As I mentioned before I'm not crazy about Valentine's Day and we are a budget couple right now.  We didn't give presents. We gave each other cards, went ice skating using Groupon, and I made dinner and brownies for us. You read about some of my couponing adventures in last week's Frugal Fashion Friday post and I've had another victory since then (FREE is the word). Yesterday, I did some discount shopping at one of my favorite stores, Loehmann's and could only afford to buy one thing (to be revealed soon, my girls).  I had to leave some amazing items behind.

Fave DIY Purchases Lately - Glue pen and glitter to create cards and decorations.

Our Pre-Valentine's Date - Ice skating and hot chocolate

A Gift for My Honey - Heart shaped brownies (handmade, from a mix)

FREE (full size) Hair Products! - Using coupons and a store sale (note: I'm in love with the volumizing powder)

An AMAZING Bracelet - Didn't buy it but I might have to go back for it.

Frugal Fashion Friday - Discounts on Beauty Items

Last year I did a post about saving on fashion and online shopping.  In the post I was a critical of the people on the TLC show "Extreme Couponing".  I've always been one to admit when I'm wrong. While I still don't understand stock piling items you'll never use, I have changed my mind and thinking on using coupons at grocery and drugstores.  Financially things have been tight for us for the past year or so.  I know it's been tough for lots of people.  But I decided to do some things to reduce our grocery and drugstore budget. When I first started watching the show, I thought the people featured were over the top. I soon realized that I could use some of their strategies, on a much smaller scale, to save on my regular grocery and drugstore runs.  I didn't have any illusion that I'd get $3,000 worth of groceries for $10.  I thought if I could save a large percentage, maybe $50 or more on an average shopping trip, I'd be thrilled.  I started by clipping coupons from the Sunday paper and matching them with store deals. I also read local blogs to get the scoop on other deals. My favorites in the DC area are Beltway Bargain Mom and Capitally Frugal. There are great blogs in every area. Just do a search to find some close to you.

I've started regularly using beauty item coupons at CVS and matching those deals to earn CVS Extra Care Bucks (ECB). CVS has a fairly liberal coupon policy.  They also have a money back guarantee on beauty products. Have you ever bought a new tube of lipstick, just to get it home and hate it? Have you bought the wrong foundation?  Their guarantee covers, cosmetics, skin, healthy skin, sun care, hair care, hair accessories, hair color, ethnic hair care, and fragrance. You can return your product for a full refund within 60 days.They also have a Beauty Club. Just link your CVS card to the Beauty Club.  You'll get a 10% off coupon just for signing up.  For every $50 in beauty products you purchase you get $5 in Extra Care Bucks. You can also earn Extra Care Bucks by purchasing certain amounts of products.

Yesterday I took a little trip to CVS. One of the things I always do when I walk into CVS is to scan my CVS Care Card at the coupon kiosk. Yesterday I got $5 in Extra Care Bucks and a coupon for $2 off of hair color. Using the coupons I'd clipped, sales that were going on at the store, and Extra Care Bucks (including the the $5 ECB I got that day), I purchased $73.31 worth of beauty products for $36.06 (before tax)!

Here is the tally...

At checkout I also received a $10 CVS Cash Card (like a gift card) and another $5 in Extra Care Bucks. I got these by completing two deals. The first was to purchase $30 worth of certain products and get a $10 card.  The second was to purchase $15 in John Frieda products and get $5 in Extra Care Bucks. I'd purchased a portion of both of these deals in previous shopping trips. My purchases yesterday completed those deals and earned me the card and ECBs.  The greatest part is that the dollar amount used to calculate those deals is taken prior to any coupons you use.  I needed $12 in John Frieda products to complete the $15 needed for the $5 ECB.  I got two products totalling $12, then used $4 in coupons, paying $8 and got $5 in ECBs for a future purchase.  You can use as many ECB coupons as you'd like in an order and you don't have to make a minimum purchase to use them.

I don't spend tons of time every week clipping coupons.  I get a few copies of the Sunday paper. In the DC area we get our coupons on Saturday. I sort though and pull the ones that are for products we use.  Then on Sunday or Monday evening, while watching guilty pleasure TV, I clip coupons. I wouldn't consider myself an extreme couponer but it sure does feel good to get products at a huge discount. One of my most exciting CVS trips was when I purchased a couple of hair products and a magazine and paid only $.19!  Yes, you read that correctly, 19 cents!  On top of that I also got $5 in Extra Care Bucks.  Using coupons, store deals and ECBs, I paid 19 cents and had $5 to spend on my next purchase. Who doesn't love free or discount beauty products?!

My couponing journey has been aided by some good friends who share stories, tips, and coupons.  This post is for you, Marissa, Denise, and David!

HAPPY FRIDAY REAL GIRLS!!

Full Disclosure Note:  The opinions expressed are my own. I did not receive any compensation from CVS or any of the product companies featured.

BeautyMint - The New Word in Skincare

A few months ago, I heard about a new beauty and skin care line by the company that broughy us JewelMint and StyleMint. This new company, BeautyMint is a collaboration between skin care expert and aesthetician Nerida Joy and Jessica Simpson.

I was asked by BeautyMint to review the main products in their line.  The line launched on October 31 so I was thrilled to be one of the first to try their products.  I’ve been using them for about two weeks now.  I wanted to give them a real try out before posting a review. Based on information from dermatologists, two weeks isn’t enough time to see the full benefits of a new skincare regimen.  I’m going to give you my feedback so far and in a few weeks, I’ll do a follow up.

BeautyMint asked me a few questions and sent products to me.  However, I decided to register, just like you all will do if you decide to join BeautyMint.  I started by completing the skin consultation. The consultation asks a detailed list of questions.  The only drawback I saw was that my answers may have been a combination of a few answers.  Checking more than one reply wasn't an option.

I found the results and recommendations to be accurate to my needs and skin concerns.  I received the comprehensive 4 piece system ($39.99 + S&H).  The advanced 5 piece system includes eye cream ($49.99 + free shipping). The 4 piece system included Essential Cleanser, Stregthening Hydrator, Sculpting Treatment, and Ultra Replenishing Serum. 

The BeautyMint Products I Received

I've been using the products daily for about two weeks and I like the way my skin is responding so far.  Fine lines are my biggest worry and they sent me the related products.  I am seeing some smoothing which is a good sign. You all know that I wear spf daily and I was happy to see that the daily moisturizer included spf.

Cleanser - clear with no perfumes

Sculpting Treatment - Gel like liquid

Ultra Replenishing Serum - An opaque serum with moisturizers

PROS

• The products were free of perfumes and dyes. I loved this because I have sensitive skin.
• Natural ingridients like aloe and marine collagen are used in the products.
• My skin is responding well to these products.  I like the way the make my skin feel smoother.
• The Ultra Replenishing Serum is my favorite. The intense moisturizer instantly hydrates and it works well at night and under make up.
• There is a 30 day money back guaratee. If you don't like a product or products you can return them within 30 days for a full refund (minus S&H).

CONS

• I would like a higher spf in the Strengthening Hydrator.  Based on a recommendation from my Dermatologist, I used spf 50, daily.
• Products can't be ordered individually.  I know the products are meant to be used together.  However, I would like to be able to order individual products if I run out of one item or want to try another item. 
• I would like to be able to order both eye creams individually instead of having them bundled with the skin care regimen.

As you can see most of my cons are not about the products themselves but about ordering and obtaining products.  I know I'm not the norm when it comes to spf use and spf 15 is the standard for most over the counter moisturizers. Overall, I thought the products were good and like the way they worked with my skin. If you want to try a new skin care regimen, BeautyMint  provides good skincare products at a good value.

I will continue to use BeautyMint for the next couple weeks. Most skin care recommendations say that you should give new products at least 4 to 6 weeks to see results. I'll let you know my final results in a future post.

NOTE: BeautyMint sent me their products and kindly asked that I review them on RGR. The opinions

expressed here are my own and are not influenced by BeautyMint.