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Monday, September 30, 2013

Current Skin Care: Cleansers

I've done a total revamp of my skin care in the last six months. After having an horrendous allergic reaction to products, I decided to change to all natural, free from and some organic skin care products. I have very sensitive dryish skin. Plus, I'm over 40 so I need products that provide anti-aging benefits as well. This can be challenging as most antioxidant ingredients can be irritating. 

I'm going to make this into a series of posts as one long post might be overbearing to read since I use a variety of products for each category.  We will start with cleansers. To be honest, I've never found a cleanser that I love that works and does not break me out.  I know that is crazy. But, it's true. I've loved a few in the past but they eventually broke me out or caused a reaction. Or, the cleanser works but I just don't like it. So, finding a holy grail cleanser has not happened yet. However, the ones in my current line up are liked, work well and don't cause reactions or break outs, so I'm just going to have to be satisfied with liking my cleansers. 





Now on to the products: Makeup removing: 

I don't typically wear makeup every day. On those days that I wear it, I use a makeup cleansing oil to remove and double cleanse. My current oil is Josie Maran Argan Cleansing Oil. I really like this as it is gentle and contains all natural ingredients. My criteria for cleansing oil/cleanser is that is does not contain mineral oil/parabens/fragrance, and this one fits the bill. It cleanses well even when I use waterproof mascara. As well, it's free from skin nasties such as parabens, triclosan, and sulfates. The only downside is the price. It's on the expensive side at $32/6oz. I may look for a less expensive alternative after this is gone, but for now it's a good choice.  


I also keep a bottle of micellar water to remove fall out and mistakes with eye makeup. Currently, I have a huge bottle of Bioderma for that purpose. I will probably not repurchase this one. It's challenging to purchase in the US, and I don't feel like I need a $30 bottle of eye makeup corrector. I originally bought this as a makeup remover, but it fails miserably for me in that aspect and causes break outs. So, I'm using it up and will purchase a more economical version when needed. 




Cleansers:
Mad Hippie Cream Cleanser
Michael Todd Honey and Oat Gentle Deep Pore Cleanser
FAB Face Cleanser


I've really enjoyed Mad Hippie on no makeup days and as a morning cleanse. It's healthy for my skin and really cleanses without drying out skin. I will buy another once this is gone as it meets all the criteria I have for cleanser i.e. all natural, free from, no added fragrance, etc.  


I use Michael Todd cleanser at night. It's really moisturizing and nurturing to the skin. It cleans well and does not dry out my face. This would work for all skin types in my opinion.  I purchased this in the Sensitive Skin regime when I had a coupon, so I really didn't pay much for it. I do like it enough to repurchase alone and would pay full price. However, there are always coupon codes to reduce pricing. I wouldn't purchase the regime personally as only 2/6 products worked for me. 


First Aid Beauty Face Cleanser
I received this in a sample Sephora VIB bag. I like it to change up with my nightly cleanser. It's very creamy and does a good job. It is easily accessible at Sephora. That's a plus,as I have to order the others online. But, of the three it's my least favorite, so I probably won't purchase the full size. If you are looking for a gently hydrating cleanser that has good ingredients, I would recommend trying it out. 

To help with cleansing, I use soft natural organic bamboo cloths. I find these are as necessary as the cleanser. These help to remove makeup and slightly exfoliate sensitive skin. I stopped using regular wash cloths as I found they were too rough for my skin. These cause no irritation at all and do not disturb the sensitive layer of skin when cleansing. I purchased mine from this seller on Etsy, but I'm sure these are available in stores or online. I like shopping and supporting Etsy and Paypal is an option. Plus, these wash up like new with each use and can be used indefinitely.  


And, that's my current rotation of facial cleansers. Do you use any of these? Do you have a holy grail that you repurchase? 


* Links provided for your convenience.  I've purchased all items with my own money. No compensation received as this is my own personal review. *

Sunday, September 29, 2013

Wish List : Top 5 Beauty and Skin Care Items

If I had unlimited funds right now, here are a few items I'm wanting to purchase for my collection. I am very nosy interested to see what others have on their makeup or skin care wish list. I've thought of my top five for this post. If you have these items, leave a comment and share your experience.



1. 100% pure Honey and Almond Nourishing Body Cream : I received a sample of this in one of my beauty box subscription and have been obsessing ever since. It really moisturized my skin and smelled great. Plus, it's made with natural and healthy ingredients for your body.  I'm waiting on a sale or a free shipping code to get this one.
2. Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate:  I recently tried a sample of this and liked the improvement in my skin tone/texture. I have another sample to finish up, but I'll be buying this one in full size.
3.Too Faced Better Than Sex Modern Matte Collection: I need another eye-shadow palette like a need a hole in my head. But, I really like this one for the value. I do have a return, so I may pick this up with my refund... it doesn't count then right??
4. Makeup Forever Aqua Shadows Essentials set: More shadow... But, I love these pencils as bases for my shadow.

5. Bumble and Bumble Bb.Thickening Dryspun Finish:  I've been hearing good things about this one. At $29, it is a little steep for me. But, I may splurge once my L'Oreal Elnett runs out.

What's on your wish list?

Saturday, September 28, 2013

September: Favorites

I love reading beauty favorites posts. In fact, I've probably discovered a great deal of my beauty loves through other bloggers. Here is what I've been loving this month. With the weather changing here, I've brought in some of my favorites for the cooler temps.  I'm going to try and keep this as brief as possible so this won't end up being a book. If you see something that you would like more info, please leave me a comment.

Favorite Face Product(s): 
Nars Radiant Cream Compact Foundation- I bought this one because I love the creamy concealer. At first, I wasn't impressed with application but this looks great on my skin and wears well. And my husband compliments me every time I wear this,and it really does make my skin radiant. Score! It's a little steep on price, but I believe it investing in good face products. 

Favorite Blush: 

Illamasqua Powder Blusher in Naked Rose- I lucked up and found this on a blog sale for $8(it looked new!). Oh my word! The pigmentation and shade range cannot be beat. I'll be picking up another shade soon. 

Favorite Eye Product(s): 

MAC Showstopper Quad: This has been my go to palette since I bought it a few weeks ago. Perfect quad for a natural look. 
Trish McEvoy Intense Gel Eyeliner in Arabian Nights: I got this as a freebie in an order and hands down it's been my favorite eyeliner since that purchase. It's a beautiful blue/black the wears forever and looks stunning with my blue eyes. If you've not tried her products, this is a winner hands down. 

Favorite Lip Product(s): 

Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Honey with Revlon Super Lustrous Lip Gloss in Super Natural. I don't usually wear gloss but this drugstore find is a beauty. Wears well and is not sticky. For a more autumnal shades, I'm loving my Trish McEvoy in Sugar Plum Pink and MAC Viva Glam I. 

Favorite Beauty Tool: 

MAC 239 eye shadow brush-  I bought this brush because I saw it in one of Laura's  hauls. This is a workhorse of a brush. It packs on shadow like a dream. I like it so much that it's on my list to get a back up. I've never been in love with a brush, but this one comes close. Ha! Yes, it's an investment at $25 but I don't think you will regret it if you pick it up. P.S excuse the unwashed brush.

Favorite Skin Care: 

I am in love with Mad Hippie products. These products are all natural and free from bad things for your skin. The prices are reasonable too. This month, I've been using the Antioxidant Facial Oil with my nightly moisturizer. My new purchase is the exfoliating serum. This is a every other night treatment that is gentle on skin and uses low levels of glycolic acids to make the skin more even and clear. I wake up with glowy and soft skin. It's safe for sensitive skin too, as I usually react to almost everything. If you are looking for a good/ well priced organic/natural brand check out Mad Hippie.  

Favorite Hair Care: 

I've recently gone from traditional shampoo/conditioner to organic and safe products for color-treated hair. In the past, I've use Pureology but needed to find a more budget friendly brand. Acure Organics fits the bill. I'm loving the Moroccan Argan Oil and Argan stem cell moisture repairing shampoo and conditioner.  I highly recommend these as they clean my hair really well without stripped color and natural oils. And  at $8 a bottle these are a great alternative to Pureology. 



Hope you enjoyed this post. Please leave a comment with your favorites!  P.S. Check out Laura's Blog  Beauty Lover's Notes for great reviews, hauls and posts. She's one of my favorite UK bloggers. 

Friday, September 27, 2013

The Autumn Tag

The lovely Georgina at Makeup Pixi3 created The Autumn Tag, and I thought I would join in the fun. I just want to say that I am obsessed with UK beauty blogs. I'm probably not the typical young (read stylish) reader, but I love reading and seeing reviews, hauls, and general posts by some of my favorites. If you've not checked out Georgina's blog, please do. You will be glad you did! 

 For Autumn, what is your...

1. Favourite thing about it?  I love the changing of the leaves and cooler temps.  



2. Favourite drink?  Apple Cider or the occasional cup of coffee with Coffee-Mate Pumpkin Spice Creamer. 



3  Favourite scent/candle?  I'm loving LaVanilla Blackberry Vanilla for my scent this fall. My favorite candle is anything apple cinnamon or spicy. Right now, we are burning Blackberry Spice from Bath and Body Works.  




4. Best lipstick?  My favorite lipsticks for Fall : a freebie I received in a recent order  from Trish McEvoy called Sugar Plum Pink and Revlon Lip Butter in Pink Truffle. 







5. Go to moisturiser?  I've recently switched to free from and natural skin care. My favorite facial day moisturizer is  Mad Hippie Face Cream or boscia Vital Defense Vital Antioxidant Moisture SPF 30 (when I'm out).  For night care, I use boscia Super-Charge Overnight Moisture. I also use a drop of Mad Hippie Antioxidant Facial Oil to add an extra layer of hydration for my face.  For the body, I use Goatie Girls (Etsy)handmade organic goat milk lotion in Oatmeal and Honey.  For hands, I'm using up a sample of L'occitane Shea Butter. 

6. Go to colours for the eyes?  I am a neutral girl with eye shadow. However, I do wear an occasional purple or navy smokey eye. My favorites for fall are MAC Showstopper Quad, NARS Fairy's Kiss palette , or my Clinique chubby stick in midnight for navy looks. 


7. Favourite music or band/singer to listen to? I really do not have a favorite,  I like listening to music from the 70's until now and most genres including contemporary christian, pop, rock, country, etc. But my favs right now are love songs, etc  from 70's (nerd I know!)



8. Favourite outfit to wear (i.e. boots & a scarf combo)?   It's mostly jeans and tees/sweaters for me

9. Autumn treat?  (i.e. a new scarf or bag you have your eye on) I plan to buy some new boots. 

10. Favourite place to be?  At home with my family with a fire going and a warm drink. I also love reading, so a new book would be nice. 


If you do the tag,  make sure to tweet (@twinklinpixi3) and link back to her post.  Since, I'm newly blogging, I blog anyone who wants to do the tag. It's fun, so I hope you do!

Thursday, September 26, 2013

Small Makeup Haul: Drugstore/Walmart

I normally use the blog to post sales, but I thought I might start posting hauls and reviews, too.  I had to run to Walmart today. So, I took my handy coupons and went looking for a few new items on my wish list. I'm not much of a drugstore makeup shopper, but I do like Revlon lip-butters and Maybelline Color Tattoo shadows. And, recently I've stopped using high end mascara as the lower end counterparts work just as well on my lashes. 


1. Covergirl LashBlast Clump Crusher Extensions $6.94 -$2.00/1 coupon =$4.94 :  I've not tried the original version but picked this one up because the idea of 200% more volume intrigues me. We will see how it works on my short, blond minuscule lashes. 

2. L'oreal Voluminous Butterfly Mascara $7.97-$1.00/1 coupon (found at Walmart)=$6.97:  This is a new mascara from L'oreal that has an interesting brush. I've used L'oreal in the past and liked the original voluminous.  

3. Revlon Lip Butter in Pink Truffle $5.96:  Yes, we know all about these. I've had this shade on my wish list for awhile and I was happy to find it. It's a perfect Fall shade for me as it's a pinky brown nude that really looks nice. 

4. Covergirl Whipped Cream Foundation  305 $5.94- $2.00/1 coupon= $3.94   There is a reason that I do not buy drugstore foundation: the shades never match my light neutral skin. I tried this one out once I got home, and it's too pink and  light. The next shade up looked too dark, so I will  probably pass this one on to my teenage sister. I think this would look great on younger more combo skin. I'm 42 and have normal dryish skin, and it wasn't great on me. 

5. Maybelline Color Tattoo Tough as Taupe $4.96:   Another one from my wish list--- Love these as bases underneath shadow. If you like MAC paint pots, you will like these IMO. I also wanted Barely Branded but it was OOS. Maybe next time. 

I hope you enjoyed reading my little haul. It's fun sometimes to pick up a few less expensive treats. 

Also if you are interested, the coupons listed above can be found on coupons.com

Monday, September 23, 2013

Happy Fall Y'all Blog Sale

Sale extended to one final day 10/22/13* All items purchased 10/21-10/22 will have no PayPal fees and US shipping is free. *


*** I will be closing this sale on Friday 10/18 *** 

Welcome to my Blog Sale.  If you see something you like, please email me for items without checkout: mbtmom@uab.edu    Please do not comment here as I do not check daily.  Please check previous blog posts for more items still for sale. 

My mua username is mbtmom.  eBay feedback: winston-2012 100% positive.  All items come from a smoke free home. We do have pets, but they are not near the makeup.

Everyone is welcome. International shoppers: Shipping will be higher of course, but I am happy to ship.  Please email for a quote.  I use info given to me from USPS.com. I refund gross overage on my part.

Here are some guidelines:  


Items are first come/first served.  Questions regarding items do not hold or pend items. Offers do not pend items. 
However, I am very easy to work with.  I've had to revise my guidelines due to pending items and non payers.   


Payment
 will be made using paypal .  For multiple purchases I will refund shipping overage. If no checkout available, payment is kindly requested within two hours. 
 


Offers: I am not  accepting  offers on newly listed items.   However, I do run offers please sales on items so look out for those. 

Forms of payment
: Paypal gift or invoice but fees will be added.  No e-checks please unless we agree before payment is sent. Please note that the 2.9% tax added to Paypal checkout if available is the actual Paypal fee. 
Int'l shoppers please email for Paypal invoice.  I am in the process of adding cart buttons to all for sale items. 

Shipping: US purchases are shipped daily or several times during the week. I provide delivery confirmation on all US packages.  I will on occasion reuse shipping materials. All items will be carefully wrapped and shipped in either bubble wrap padded envelopes or boxes if needed.


I ship internationally once per week . I will let you know when items are shipped and scan a receipt of shipment.  I cannot provide D/C, (unless you are willing to pay said cost)as it can be cost prohibitive. 



Shipping CostsUS only:  For 1st class shipping :$3.50 for the first item and additional $.50 will be added for most  items. For heavier items, I will either note the additional or send an estimate if you prefer. 

Please do not ask for free shipping.  However, I may discount pricing for multiple items. I will at times reduce shipping if you are buying a great deal or if the item is small. 


International shipping has increased so understand that I charge what USPS charges me. 

For instance, first class international costs start at around $8-11 for less than 1lb to give you an idea.  
Minimum order $10  please  before shipping.  

Pictures are provided for verification. Please google for actual swatches as I've  had to use my phone for pics.  

I take very good care of my makeup and will ship to you  as safe as possible.  I am not  responsible for items once they are shipped.   

Furthermore, I will leave cleansing to the purchaser. 

All items are authentic and purchased by me either in-store, online or gifted unless otherwise stated. 
RIS= received in swap 
NIB= New in box

SIB= Still in box 

NWOB= New without box


More items avail here: Please send offers from this sale!

http://taylordawn2012.blogspot.com/2013/06/blog-sale.html

New items firm pricing:  
Sorry about the bad pics--- please google for swatches. 


Free US shipping on $25 makeup purchase:  Will entertain reasonable offers on remaining items.   The  1st person purchasing over $50 will receive a $5 Sephora gift card as a bonus. Will update as soon as that is taken!


Sale will close 10/18/13


Stila NWOB Stay All Day Waterproof Eyeliner in black  $9 full size
Josie Maran 100% Argan oil 0.5oz $5 used 1x
Origins GinZing Eye Cream 0.5 oz $15 used 1x
It Cosmetics Full Size Lux Heavenly Powder Brush $27 retail $48 NIB
Mally ever color starlight waterproof Eyeliner in Starshine swatched $5
Smashbox photo finish primer 0.5 oz New $5
Smashbox BB cream Light  used 1x 1 oz $15 full size retails $38 PEND
UD shattered face case-- shadows used 1 or 2x some not used , blushes/highlight used 1x, pencil 2x, lipgloss 1x $30





Skin Care: 
Kiehls:

Ultra Facial Toner full size used 1x $9 PEND
Cucumber Toner  f/s used 1X $ 5
Stress Minimizing daily Hydrator 0.5 $4 new
Ultimate Strength Hand Salve 1 oz new $3



Origins Ginzing Oil Free moisturizer about 50% remains $10 PEND
Ole Hendricksen 0.5 oz truth serum™ collagen booster  NIB $14  PEND

Chanel poudre universelle libre natural finish loose powder in 020 more than 50% remains  $20

Shu Uemura Cleansing oil Large size 90% remains $22 plus shipping ($6)
Clarins Gentle Night Cream used 2x $15 (full size) retails for $60
Clarins Gentle Day Cream used 1x $15 (full size) retails for $60
NIB La Roche Posay Mela-D Cleanser sample $3
NIB Amore Pacific Color Control Cushion Compact in 104 Tan Blush 0.14oz $8
RT New Foundation Brush $3
RT Shading Brush used 1x $3

Clarins Melt Gel Cleanser 80% remains $5
Clarins Extra Comfort Toning Lotion  95% remains$5

Updated 10/8/13 


Bumble& Bumble NEW  Travel Size

Grooming Creme $2
Styling Cream $2
Fake Bake Flawless Travel Size with mitt NIB $5

LM eye makeup remover sample $2 NEW


Kiehls 


Ultra Facial Cleanser $4 NEW

Nashi Blossom and Pink Grapefruit Shower Gel  New $2




Sephora Benefit Birthday gift
1 NIB $5
1 SIB highlighter swatched $4 mascara NEW

NARS Tolede lipstick  used 1x $15
Ellis FAAS L209 NIB $10 PEND
LM mascara sample NEW $2
Pop Lip Crayon Rose used 1x $2
Hourglass NIP N28 Primer Sample $4
Hourglass NIB Veil Primer Sample $4


Charcoal facial detox soap NIP $2 PEND
Michael Todd Eye Cream used 2x $8 PEND
LM Matte Translucent Refill (I believe this is a tester)used 1x $5


NARS Paris Foilles Lipgloss used 1x $14
Stila Peony sample $2 used 2x
Kiehl's Honey Almond Body Butter sample used 1x $1
African Black Soap Menthe $1



Whet NP Clandestine used 1x $4
Deborah Lippmann NIP Cleopatra in New York $8
Illamasqua Alarm NIB $8
NARS 413 BLKR used 1x $9 


Eyeshadow Palettes

NARS Fairy's Kiss Palette used 1x some colors not used. $30

Laura Mercier Violet Duo used 1x $5
Kat Von D Foundation Powder shade 45  2x $20
Rimmel English Rose swatched $1 or free with purchase
Rimmel Dark Signature used 1x $1 or free with purchase
Nars Loose Powder Brush 1 (ret $50)used 1x $20 
Charlotte Ronson Face Brush  used 1x $3
Bare Escentuals Heavenly Eye-shadow Buffing Brush used 1x $2






Dior Bonne Etoile Fall 2013 5 Color Palette $45 HTF  I am firm on this price. I still have my receipt so I can return but thought I would offer in case someone wanted this. No offers 
Used 1x some shadows not touched.   SOLD







Armani ETK #4  Effecto Nudo $35 
used 1 or 2x 


Bobby Brown Navy and Nude Palette $25  Like New

used 2x some colors only swatched.    SOLD




PEND Urban Decay LE 6 Pan Case with 4 shadows (mushroom and rockstar not included )W.O.S., Sin, Naked, Buck, Brush   $22 All full sized shadows purchased by me to make a custom palette.  each shade used a few times

Or if interested in single shadows, I will sell individually for $9 each

 NARS Bellisima Duo refill (tester)$6 used 1x  

Rapid Lash NIP sealed $10(retail $49.99) Full Size PEND

Chanel les Beiges N10 used 1x in box w/pouch $40 FIRM NO OFFERS


GA  NIB Sheer Blush #2 pink  used 1x $12 (lower left front) PEND





Skin Care: 

Michael Todd:
Avocado and Mango Full size used 1x $5
Hydrating Serum 1 oz full size used 1x $7
Fruit Enzyme Cleanser full size 3.4 ox used 1X $5 PEND
Travel Size Pumpkin Mask used 1x $3 PEND

 
 
  
Please see my other posts for more sale items.