Wet ‘N’ Wild MegaLength Mascara

Wet ‘N’ Wild MegaLength Mascara

Winner of the Self 2010 Beauty Award

What it claims:

85% of consumers saw length improvement. For lavishly long and perfectly defined lashes, this lengthening formula visibly lifts for clump-free, lash-by-lash definition.

Cost:

$2.97

I set out to buy Covergirl's Lashblast Mascara in the yellowtube as I have heard great things but stopped right in my tracks when I saw this mascara from WetnWild...with almost a $5 difference between them, I opted to give the cheaper version a try. I'm a sucker for a good deal.

Now I compared both brushes in the store and they are exactly the same. The WnW is a bit smaller but all around, same deal. You even get more in the WW tube.

I first curled my lashes, then applied the mascara. It only comes in one shade - very black.

The first time I put it on it was very clumpy and scary on one eye, the other eye was normal. So I had to take the mascara off which was a pain, wait 10 minutes for my lashes to dry so they would curl again, and reapply.

After I reapplyed for the second time, the mascara went on normal. I'm chalking up the clumpiness to the first time the brush was dipped.

If you are a fan of the Covergirl Lashblast, this is comparable. I've used it, and depending on the look you are going for, it does what it says.

The WnW seperated and lengthened my lashes but did not help with the curling. My lashes were almost stick straight. The color is nice and if you're looking for length, this is a great mascara for the price.

If you are someone who likes length, curl and volume, this is not the mascara for you.

It is purely a lengthening mascara so if that is what you are after, for under $3 this could be every beautygal's dream!

Now I kind of want to try the WnW plump & volume mascara!

Equate Farewell Cellulite Cream, 6.7 oz. With L-Carnitine

Equate Farewell Cellulite Cream, 6.7 oz. With L-Carnitine

What is it:
A Body shaping cream-gel to reduce the appearance of cellulite on the stomach, thighs, butt, and hips. L-Carnitine is found naturally in the skin and supports the conversion of fat into energy

Cost:

$6.97 at Walmart

Cellulite results from an excess storage of fat in the deeper skin layers beneath the connective tissue. As a result the skin gets uneven, loses elasticity and dimples occur. It is well known that Anti-Cellulite massages on the affected body areas, especially on thighs, buttocks, stomach help to reduce the appearance of cellulite.

I've been using this for the past 4 days and I can already see a difference in my cellulite. This cream-gel has a fresh scent, and a light texture. It is a vibrant blue in color.

After using the cream for 4 days, I'm not saying my cellulite is gone and I do not expect that this product will completely eliminate every ripple and but I can see that it is resulting in an improvement. My skin feels smooth.

A lot of anti-cellulite products on the market are very costly but this has a great price point.

I apply this after showering, and every night to my stomach, thighs, hips, and butt. I will say that the only downfall of this gel is that it is a bit sticky after you first apply it. If you get dressed immediatly after I find your bottoms will stick to your body parts.

Keep in mind, this is not a miracle cream. It is meant to visibly reduce the appearance of cellulite. I'm sure with using this on a consistant basis I will get better results. I'm going to use it for 4 weeks and then I will see what my results are like!

Clarins Super Restorative Redefining Body Care

Clarins Super Restorative Redefining Body Care

What is it:
Body shaping cream-gel for mature women.

What it is formulated to do:
Helps streamline and shape the abdomen and waist while leaving skin feeling satiny soft and amazingly supple. Delivers a "lifting" effect; works overtime to keep skin firm and toned.

Now being a woman of 25, I'm pretty sure this was meant for someone a bit older but I love toning creams so I thought why not give it a try.

Cost:

$89.50

Active Ingredients:

-Crowberry Extract (Clarin's discovery), Caffeine, and Agrimony: Redefining benefits for a flatter abdomen.
-Pueraria Lobata (when reinforced with Crowberry Extract and Khaki Calyx): Keeps skin firm and toned.
-Ultra Imperata Cylindrica and Sunflower: Dual moisturizing and nourishing action.

Statistics:

-67% of users noticed a flatter stomach.*
-83% of users noticed a more refined waist.*

*Results were confined after four weeks of use. Consumer tests were carried out on 69 women with an average age of 57.
May be applied morning and/or evening using light massage movements, in a clockwise direction, over the entire abdominal area including the hips if you are looking to refine them as well. This cream actually comes with an application booklet. Basically it may be applied morning and/or evening using light massage movements, in a clockwise direction, over the entire abdominal area including the hips if you are looking to refine them as well.

Let me just say, this cream smells amazing. To me it just smells clean. I could put this on nightly for the rest of my life just to smell it. I used this cream nightly for 8 weeks. I did notice my stomach was smoother, and looked tighter.

Bare Escentuals Matte Foundation

Bare Escentuals Matte Foundation

Mineral Makeup with SPF 15

Cost:

$28

This is my all time favorite foundation.

In the past I only used MAC Studio Fix, but since I jumped on the BE train three years ago I haven't looked back.

As a long time fan of Bare Escentuals, I was weary of trying their Matte Formula.

Don't ask me why.

I have used the regular BE Foundation with spf15 for about three years.

So maybe I was torn about change.

I adore their makeup. I enjoy their whole line. Leslie, the founder is amazing. I wrote her an email once and she even wrote back to me!

Back on topic.

The Matte Foundation.

I adore it. I actually do not know how I wore the regular now that I wear this.

The difference is just the Matte. Same coverage, same thing. Just the Original gives you a luminous glow while the matte is completely shine free.

The groundbreaking formula offers shine-free coverage and extraordinary skin-renewing properties for a flawless, natural matte finish all day long. It absorbs excess oil and eliminates shine without drying your skin. It dramatically improves the appearance of your skin through the clinically proven power of RareMinerals ActiveSoil Complex, which minimizes pores and promotes cell turnover for fresher, smoother skin, while protecting your skin from environmental damage. This groundbreaking formula is made with only the purest, highest-quality ingredients and is free of harsh chemicals and preservatives.

Bonus?

It's in a no-spill, no-mess package. It has a little siffter that you can move back and forth.

Let me tell you - GREAT for travel. I used to have to carry my regular BE foundation and by the time your plane landed, half your foundation was in the top of the container. But not with this. They really need to change all the containers.

What it's formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Synthetic Fragrances
- Synthetic Dyes
- Petro-Chemicals
- Phthalates

How much?

$28 for a container that will last you 4-6 months depending on how you use it, maybe longer.

How to Apply?

1. Swirl
A small amount of bareMinerals into the lid with the Flawless Application Brush (for lighter coverage) or the Full Coverage Kabuki Brush (for more coverage) until the bareMinerals are tucked into the bristles.
2. Tap
Off the excess. The Minerals should not be visible on the outside of the brush.
3. Buff
BareMinerals onto the skin in a swirling, circular motion, starting on the outside of your face near your cheekbones. Then, buff around your face, working your way to the cheeks, forehead, and nose. Buff until you're satisfied with the coverage. Less is more when applying bareMinerals.
Whichever BareEscentuals Foundation you choose it is totally personal choice.

I recommend this to everyone and have turned my friends and family as loyal followers! It's great for ALL skin types no matter your age. Personally, I have acne prone skin and this has never made me break out.

I adore the Matte, I love how it makes my skin look doll like and airbrushed. If you've never used any BE Foundation before you are missing out. Whether you go with Matte or Original.

This stuff covers up everything. From acne scars, dark circles, to redness. Plus it's made without chemicals so it's so pure you could sleep in it. With a built in SPF its excellent but I still recommend using a sunscreen underneath daily.

(I also recommend washing and cleansing nightly..if the odd time you happen to be out late and cannot, I speak from personal experience when I say I have not broken out from keeping it on overnight).

Creme de La Mer vs Nivea Creme

What every woman wants? Perfect Skin.

If you are one of the lucky ones who have never had an issue with their skin, congrats. For the rest of us gals out there, this could be your answer.

Creme de La Mer VS Nivea Creme

COST

1oz Creme de La Mer $130

60z Nivea Creme $6.50

The Rumor

Creme de la Mer is nothing but Nivea Creme. Specifally Made in Germany Nivea Creme. If you're using the Nivea your local drugstore has in the plastic container you're going to be dissapointed - it is not the same. The one in the tin is what is said to be it.
Nivea Creme Made in Germany in the Blue Tin is VERY hard to find.

The Nivea cream is very thick, and a tad stickier than the original Creme de La Mer but I think that has to do with the La Mer consistancy breaking down once you warm it.

They smell very similar, almost floral . But not overpowering.

The secret to La Mer is in the application.

You must liquify it first, warming it between your fingers then patting it onto your face. You do not rub.

The two apply very similarly.

I used the original Creme de La Mer for one month. It claims to take away redness, and bring your skin back to normal. Smooth, radiant, and blemish free (according to Claire the La Mer rep I spoke with). I did find my skin looked more radiant and glowing after 30 days.

I will say I did break out a few times though.

I have been using the Nivea Creme Made in Germany for about two months, I started using it directly after I stopped using my La Mer.

I find the Nivea works exactly the same except I have not had any breakouts whatsoever! It is an amazing moisturizer.

I personally washed my face, patted dry, then apply the Nivea exactly as I would apply the La Mer. I press it into my skin.

As it is a thick creme, it would be impossible to rub it into your skin, not to mention terrible for your skin.

It works very well patted into the skin as is the La Mer.

I have to admit, I adore the Nivea Creme. As someone who has acne prone skin and gets red when anything harsh is applied, this was a life saver. Since I started using this in my regieme, my skin has completely cleared up. So much so that I am getting asked what am I using on my face since my skin looks amazing.

The Nivea Creme is very hydrating, it does leave a bit of a "glowing" look. I personally use Bare Escentuals Matte Mineral Makeup with SPF 15 during the day, applying it overtop and therefore do not have a sheen. At night, I'm not too concerned as to whether I look greasy or not.

The Ingredients

The ingredients are listed in order of their proportion - highest to lowest.

Nivea Creme
• Water
• Mineral Oil: emollient
• Petrolatum: occlusive
• Glycerin: humectant
• Microcrystalline Wax: commonly used thickening agent
• Lanolin Alcohol: emollient, very closely resembles your skin's natural oils
• Paraffin: occlusive
• Panthenol: humectant
• Magnesium Sulfate
• Decyl Oleate: emollient
• Octyldodecanol: emulsifier with emollient properties
• Aluminum Stearates: emulsifier
• Fragrance
• Citric Acid: used to adjust the pH
• Magnesium Stearate: thickening agent
• Methylchloroisothiazolinone: preservative
• Methylisothiazolinone: preservative

Creme de La Mer
• Mineral Oil (Paraffinum Liquidum): emollient
• Petrolatum: occlusive
• Glycerin: humectant
• Isohexadecane: thickening agent and emulsifier
• Microcrystalline Wax (Cera Microcristallina): commonly used thickening agent
• Lanolin Alcohol: emollient, very closely resembles your skin's natural oils
• Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil: emolllient, can be irritating to those with very sensitive skin
• Magnesium Sulfate
• Paraffin: occlusive
• Decyl Oleate: emollient
• Aluminum Distearate: emulsifier
• Octyldodecanol: emulsifier with emollient properties
• Citric Acid: used to adjust the pH
• Magnesium Stearate: thickening agent
• Panthenol: humectant
• 6 Fragrances are listed individually here
• Methylchloroisothiazolinone: preservative
• Methylisothiazolinone: preservative
• Alcohol Denat: Denaturized alcohol
• Fragrance

They have the same base, and the first same 10 ingredients, right down to the preservatives.

I omitted the first ingrdient in the La Mer, the famed seaweed extract. La Mer junkies will note this as the "miracle broth". I don't know the exact proportion of everything in each creme, the seaweed could dramatically change the proportions in the La Mer, I am just stating my experience with the creme.

Though I have nothing against the La Mer, I do not have $130 to shell out on face cream. I would much rather spend $6.50 on something I find compliments my skin great.

Where can you find it?

I personally buy mine in New York City. I happened to come across a beauty apothocary store that sells hard to find items. (Hint: It's in the village)

ROASTED KALE

Try this once and you will be addicted.
Best.
Snack.
Ever.

Depending on whether your oven is good, you might have to play with the temperature.



Preheat oven to 375 degrees F

Wash Kale, dab excess water off with paper towel

I like to rip my kale up in little pieces as it gets very flaky.

Spray baking sheet with pam

Lay out Kale on baking sheet

I like to give the pam a quick spray over top...you could do this with olive oil too

Then add sea salt and pepper to taste

Bake in the oven for about 10-15 minutes

Keep an eye out though as it gets crispy/black fast

Take them out when the edges are brown

Enjoy.