March 2015 Ipsy

This month's Ipsy theme was Floral Fantasy and it came in one of the cutest bags I've gotten yet!  

I got a wide variety of products, three of which were full size!  Here's the breakdown of what I got! 

NYX Butter Lipstick in Pops; Full Size $6 - This is the third NYX lip product that I've received in an Ipsy bag, and I have to say this is hands down my favorite so far.  I don't wear lipstick very often, but this formula goes on smooth and does a great job of staying put.  When I do wear lipstick I usually go a little more dramatic with a red or pink, but this is a great natural shade for everyday.

Purlisse Gentle Soy Milk Cleanser; Full Size $36, Sample Size $6.50 - I haven't actually tried this yet so I can't really tell you much about it.  I don't really like trying face cleansers; I would much rather have some nail polish or blush!

Marsk Mineral Eyeshadow in 50 Shades; Full Size $22.50 - This eye shadow was an obvious homage to Fifty Shades of Grey and although I have no interest in reading that book or seeing the movie, I absolutely love this!  I've said before how much I love mineral eye shadows.  They're easy to apply and the color payoff is always amazing.  I used this color in my crease and outer corner and as a liner on my bottom lashes and really love it!  

Chella Highlighter in Ivory Lace; Full Size $18 - I was really excited when I got this.  I had seen it in a previous month's Ipsy or Birchbox and was really interested in trying it.  I always feel like I need to brighten my under eyes and was hoping this would do the trick.  Unfortunately I haven't noticed that it works any better than what I have been using so the search is still on for my miracle product!

Cool Way Glow Oil Treatment; Full Size $29.95, Sample Size $5? - I was really confused about how to use this product so I haven't tried it yet.  The website says its a finishing oil and to use it as your last step in the styling process.  I don't know how I feel about that.

Overall it was another great month for Ipsy!  My favorite item by far was the eye shadow and my least favorite was a toss up between the hair oil and the face cleanser.  I would much rather just get all makeup items!  The total value of the products was $58!  Please tell me where else you can get that value for only $10 a month!  If you haven't already joined the subscription box craze, you should consider it!  Here's my Ipsy referral link in case you're interested!  You can always try it for a month or two just to update your makeup collection!

Thanks for Reading!!

~Sarah

Dessange VoxBox

Last week I found out that I was selected to receive the Dessange VoxBox from Influenster!  I had never heard of Dessange before but was really excited when I realized that it's a new hair care line!

In the box, I received the Dessange Paris Oleo Miracle Replenishing Shampoo, the Oleo Miracle Replenishing Conditioner, and the Oleo Miracle Replenishing Oil.  This line is specifically formulated for dry and damaged hair and contains argan, camellia, and pracaxi oils.  I straighten my hair everyday which really dries it out so repairing formulas are one of the things I look for when considering what kind of hair care products to buy.  My main concern with this was excess weight and oil since it is oil based.

After using this all week, I have to say that I am definitely a fan!  I could tell that I liked it as soon as I rinsed out the shampoo the first time.  Most shampoos strip your hair which is why it feels rough and tangled after you rinse it out and why us ladies have to use conditioner; but this left my hair feeling soft, smooth, and tangle free after just the shampoo!  I only applied the conditioner and oil to the ends of my hair because that's where the most damage is, and I wanted to avoid excess oil along my hair line where it tends to be the worst.  The only thing I'm not crazy about is the smell.  It is very strong, and I still can't decide whether that is a good thing or a bad thing!  

You can find this line and others from the brand on Target's Website.  The Shampoo and Conditioner each retail for $9.99 and the Oil is $11.99.  Again, I got all this (a $32 value!) for free thanks to Influenster!  I get so excited when I get to try new things so Influenster has been great!  It's completely free to join, so if you're interested, you can use my referral link.

Thanks for Reading!!

~Sarah



I received these products complimentary from Influenster for testing purposes.

What is Nerium?

One of my friends recently started selling Nerium.  I had never heard of it before but I wanted to see what is was all about and thought I'd share with you all! 








This is an anti-aging skin care line for men and women that features a day cream and a night cream for your face, and a body cream.  This product helps minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and removes impurities at the same time.  It is also paraben and gluten free!

People have always told me that its never too early to start a beauty regimen to help prevent the effects of aging!  Here are my friend's results after using the day and night creams for 5 days.  


Although the product itself is more expensive than what I would normally pay, there is a way to get a discount and potentially even get it for free!  

If you sign up as a preferred customer you get a discount on each bottle you buy.  Nerium will automatically bill you and send you your order each month.

So now you're wondering, how can I get it for free?  If you sign up as a preferred customer and refer 3 people who also become preferred customers, you get your next bottle for free and continue to get your product free as long as your referrals are using the product!

Since it is such an investment, I'm still on the fence about whether or not to start using it, but I thought that some of you may be interested!  I've been using a sample of the day cream for the past couple days and am considering getting the day/night package!  If you want to see what this is all about or have any questions, check it out here! http://nerium.com/meganmeador/

Thanks for Reading!!

~Sarah

February 2015 Ipsy Bag

Can I just say that Ipsy has been killing it recently!  February's bag was no exception.  This month's theme was Ipsy Love and it came with 5 great products and a really cute makeup bag!

Glam Glow Brightmud Eye Treatment; Full Size 12 Treatments $69, 2 Treatment Samples $11.50 - This is an under eye treatment mask.  I got two samples that are good for one treatment each.  I really like the packaging because it gives you exactly how much you need for each eye!  I'm really excited to try it! http://www.glamglowmud.com/brightmud.html

Demeter Roll on Perfume Oil in First Love; Full Size $10 - This perfume is a great floral scent and the roll on applicator makes it great for traveling.  I already have a perfume that I love so I don't think I'll buy this anytime soon, but I'll definitely use this up! http://www.demeterfragrance.com/784477/products/First-Love.html

City Color Creamy Lip Stain in Flirtini; Full Size $5 – This was the only thing I didn't like in this bag.  It goes on super thick and the color is just no flattering at all! http://citycolorcosmetics.com/creamy-lip-stain/#.VOzcJfnF8k0

Rob Scheppy for Tini Beauty Eye Shadow in Pearl Fizz; Full Size $12 - You can never have too many neutral eye shadows.  I've been using this as a base and its perfect! https://www.tinibeauty.com/product/pearl-fizz/

ModelCo Blush in Peach Bellini; Full Size $22, Sample Size $11? - This is the first blush that I've gotten in an Ipsy bag and I was so excited!  As the name suggests, this is a great peachy color.  Surprisingly I didn't have a color like this already and I love it!  The color is really pigmented so a little goes a long way. http://www.modelcocosmetics.com/shop/blush-cheek-powder

This month was my one year anniversary of Ipsy bags and I am still so in love with it!  It's so great to come home from a long day at work and find that pink mailer in your mailbox!  If you're thinking about trying it for yourself, here's the link!  https://www.ipsy.com/r/6b49 

Thanks for Reading!!

~Sarah

Physician's Formula Freebies

I think I speak for most girls when I say that we will never turn down free makeup!  Even though I have about 15 blushes right now, I can always use another one.  After all, the color Rose is way different than Rosey!  Right?!? 

I've used several Physician's Formula products over the years and overall I've been pretty happy with all of them.  I recently "Liked" them on Facebook and realized that they are constantly doing some sort of giveaway!  Every Wednesday and Friday if you comment on a board on their page you are entered to win one item they are giving away.  In addition to their weekly giveaways, they also do one about once a month where they give away 100's of a particular item!  I've entered three times since October and won twice!  And let me tell you, I am not usually a lucky person, so I was ecstatic!  Here are the two makeup items that I won!

Youthful Wear Spotless Powder with SPF 15 $13.95 - I don't ever use liquid foundation, I prefer powder, so I was really excited to get this!  It advertises that it will make your skin look 10 years younger which I'm not quite sure that I agree with.  I haven't noticed any significant changes for the better in my skin.  I have however kept using it and like it as far as a regular powder.  It does have SPF in it which is something I really like in bronzers and powders. http://www.physiciansformula.com/en-us/productdetail/face/pressed-powder/06210.html

Bombshell Collection Blush for Brunettes $11.95 - Free blush, what more can I say?  It's wonderful! http://www.physiciansformula.com/en-us/productdetail/powder-palette/blush/06231.html

I think that everyone should stop what they're doing right now and check out the Physician's Formula Facebook page!  They're offering another giveaway tomorrow (February 20) that you all need to get in on!  As I may have mentioned before, who doesn't love free makeup??

Thanks for Reading!!

~Sarah 

January 2015 Ipsy

If January's Ipsy Bag was any indication of what's to come in 2015 I am really looking forward to the rest of my bags this year!  There were 5 items, all of which would fall under the full size category and it was a great assortment of products.  I think it's pretty fitting that this month's theme was Fresh Start.  Here's the breakdown of what I got and what I thought!

Pacifica Eye Shadow in Etheral; Eye Shadow single $3.50 - This is the second Pacifica eye shadow that I've received in an Ipsy bag.  My main complaint with these is the packaging.  The lid broke off of my first one and unfortunately I think it's just a matter of time before it happens to this one.  The eye shadow itself is pretty average, nothing special.  This color is a light tan/gray with minimal shimmer so it makes a great base which is how I've been using it.  They don't advertise this color on their website, so I'm not sure if it was an Ipsy exclusive or not.

http://www.pacificabeauty.com/makeup/eyes/mystical-supernatural-eye-shadow-palette?id=233

Malin and Goetz Mojito Lip Balm; Full Size $12 - I've said this before and I'll say it again; a girl can never have too many lip balms!  I really like the smell of this and it's always good to keep your lips moisturized, especially in the winter!  The only complaint I have is it tends to be kind of sticky which is one of my biggest lip balm pet peeves!

http://www.malinandgoetz.com/face/mojito-lip-balm

Probelle Nail Lacquer in Into the Blue; Full Size $6 - I happen to be somewhat of a nail polish hoarder, but as soon as I saw this color I knew I would not ever use it so I gave it to my sister.  Bright blue nail polish is not my thing and I don't see that changing anytime soon.  I prefer the more classy colors so bring on the reds and pinks Ipsy! http://www.pro-belle.com/probelle-into-the-blue-nail-lacquer-5-fl-oz-blue-cream-0502/

Elizabeth Mott All Over Shadow Brush; Full Size $9.99 - Even though I've already gotten several eye shadow brushes from Ipsy, I was really happy to get this one!  The bristles are soft and the brush handle is shorter than most so its a great size for travel.  It's also pink which gives it a special place in my heart!

http://www.elizabethmott.com/shop/all-over-shadow-brush/

Coastal Scents Liquid Eyeliner in Jet (Black); Full Size $2.95 - I've not had much luck with liquid liners and unfortunately this one was no different.  I had a hard time making a crisp line with this, it was just a mess.  I tried using the very tip of the brush but that didn't seem to help me.  I admit that my issue is most likely user error!  The few times that I did use it, it definitely stayed put until I took it off at the end of the day which is a good thing, except that if you screw it up when applying it makes it really hard to clean up without messing up your eye shadow.  Again, I think liquid eyeliner may just not be for me. http://www.coastalscents.com/liquid-eyeliner.html

The total value of all the products in my January bag was $34.44.  Each of these products was full size with the exception of the eye shadow which Pacifica does not sell in singles online.  I would still consider it a full size as far as eye shadows go.  Overall it was a great month for Ipsy and I'm looking forward to getting my February bag in the next few days!

If you want to start getting an Ipsy bag, you can use this link!

http://www.ipsy.com/r/6b49?sid=ipsypoints&cid=general

Thanks for Reading!!

~Sarah

Frosty VoxBox

One of the greatest thrills you can experience in life is walking out to the mailbox to find a box full of goodies waiting for you!  It’s been a while since I got a VoxBox but luckily I was selected to receive the Frosty Box in December!  I’ve talked about Influenster before, but just in case you haven’t read one of my blogs before, let me tell you, Influenster is awesome!  It’s completely free, all you have to do is participate in surveys and review the products you receive!  Check out what I got in the Frosty VoxBox!

Frosty Box Breakdown

NYC Expert Last Lip Color in Sugar Plum; Full Size $1.99

Celestial Seasonings Candy Cane Lane Green Tea

EcoTools Hairbrush; $10.99

McCormick Gourmet Thyme; $4.79

Fruit Vines Bites; $1.28

No7 Protect & Perfect Advanced Serum

Rimmel Gentle Eye Makeup Remover; $7.49

Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal Eyeliner; $4.49

As you can see from the picture and list above, this box came with a lot of amazing products!  My favorite thing by far was the Scandaleyes eyeliner!  I usually don’t care for pencil eyeliners, but this one is soft and goes on smoothly.  I’ve worn it almost everyday since I got it!  I haven’t tried the eye makeup remover yet since I’ve been trying to finish up another bottle, but I’m really looking forward to trying that out too.  Seriously Influenster, just send me all the makeup!

I was really excited about the hairbrush as well, but was actually pretty disappointed with it.  It may be because my hair is so fine and especially susceptible to static in the winter, but it has fiber bristles so every time I use this, it makes my hair go crazy!

The Thyme was kind of random and I have to admit, I have no idea what to even use it in, but at least I can say I have some now!

The total value of the items in the box was $31 and I paid absolutely nothing for it!  What could be better than getting a box full of stuff mailed to you for free!  If you’re interested in seeing what Influenster is all about, you can use this link; www.influenster.com/r/538296

Thanks for Reading!!

~Sarah

I received these products complimentary from Influenster for testing purposes.

Fall 2014 Walmart Beauty Box

I recently heard about the Walmart Beauty Box and decided I had to find out what it was all about!  This is a quarterly subscription box and its only $5 a box.  The samples are all items that you can buy at Walmart.   

The Fall box had 6 items in it ranging from foil packets with samples of hair care products to a full size lipgloss.  For $5, this box was totally worth it! 

The Burt's Bees Facial Cleansing towelettes came in a 10 pack and are the perfect thing to pack in an overnight bag.  You can get a pack of 30 from Walmart for $5.97.

The best thing that came in this box is the Covergirl Colorlicious lip gloss in Fruitylicious!  This lipgloss is $5.94 at Walmart and I absolutely love it!  It's not sticky at all and I love the color that I got.  

The shampoo, body wash and lotion will definitely come in handy at some point but weren't overly exciting.  The lip gloss alone was enough for me!  I'm looking forward to what will come in my winter box!  As far as I know, there is no wait-list for this box and theres no box to box commitment.  Here's the link in case you're interested in getting one! https://beautybox.walmart.com/

Thanks for Reading!!

~Sarah

December 2014 Ipsy

I know I’m a few weeks late in saying this, but Happy 2015 everyone!!  I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and New Years'!  I did not intend to take such a long break from my blog but between having my sister and her family in from Japan, Christmas, New Years’, and a crazy start to the year at work, I have neglected my blogging!  I’m hoping to get back on track!

What better way to start the year than talking about my December Ipsy bag!  I know this is way late, but I figured better late than never!

This month’s theme was Thinking of You and came in a small black bag with a pink ipsy keychain on the zipper.  The bag was a little lackluster, but we all know that’s not what I’m most interested in anyways!  Here’s the rundown of what I got!

Cailyn Just Mineral Eye Polish in Orchid; Full Size $15- I love mineral eye shadows and this one is no exception!  The color is a great neutral gold/brown so it’s great for everyday wear.  It came in a little bottle that made it look like nail polish, which was cute but not really practical.  I’m not a fan of the sponge tip applicator and unfortunately there’s not another way to get it out.  Despite that, I really love this eye shadow and the fact that it was full size made it even better! http://www.cailyncosmetics.com/EYE/JUST-MINERAL-EYE-POLISH?product_id=564

Style Sexy Hair 450 Blow Out Heat Defense Spray; Full Size $18.95, Deluxe Sample $7.82 - This is a heat protectant spray which I definitely need since I straighten my hair every day.  However, every time I try these, they make my hair feel icky, and unfortunately this one was no exception.  I did really like the way it smells and I know I should be using a product like this, so I think I may give it another try.  My hair is super static-y in the winter, so maybe that’s just a bad time to try new hair products?  Who knows! http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod5870178

Beauty Without Cruelty Facial Cleanser; Full Size $11.95, Deluxe Sample $2.80 – I’m always really hesitant to try out new facial washes because I don’t want to risk a breakout.  So I haven’t tried this and can’t give a review.  I can say that it doesn’t have a bad smell which is always good when you’re talking about things you put on your face!  I may try it eventually. http://www.beautywithoutcruelty.com/aromatherapy-skin-care-aha-facial-cleanser-8-5-oz.html

NYX Butter Balm in Marshmallow; Full Size $4 – I was really excited to get this!  A girl can never have too many lip balms, am I right?!  Unfortunately I hated this color.  It’s supposed to be nude, but goes on super brown and just looks really bad on me!  This is the second NYX lip product that I’ve gotten from Ipsy and I haven’t been impressed by either one.  The other was a butter gloss which goes on super gunky and streaky and won’t blend in at all.  In other words, I’m not likely to buy a NYX lip product anytime soon! http://www.nyxcosmetics.com/p-214-butter-lip-balm.aspx

Tarte Lights Camera Lashes; Full Size $20, Deluxe Sample $8.40 – This was my favorite item this month!  I absolutely love this mascara!  It doesn’t clump hardly at all and gives just the right amount of length and volume!  My eyelashes are really short , but this stuff works wonders! http://tartecosmetics.com/tarte-item-lights-camera-lashes-mascara

All in all, December was a pretty great month for Ipsy!  The total value of the products in my bag was $38.  Considering the subscription is only $10 a month, I’d say that’s pretty great!  If you want to join the fun and start getting your Ipsy bag, here’s my referral link!  http://www.ipsy.com/r/6b49?sid=ipsypoints&cid=general

Thanks for Reading!!

~Sarah