Deadlines to meet. Trains to catch. Speeding cars. Loud sirens. In the hustle and bustle of today’s fast paced world, it is easy to lose sight of the true beauty that surrounds us. It can be a challenge to slow down and appreciate the wondrous world all around. This fall, China Glaze® encourages you to do just that with its The Great Outdoors collection. Continuing on its 2015 Colour Adventure, China Glaze® explores the vast tones and textures of the wilderness. These 12 new nature-inspired shades inspire you to ground yourself, even if for just a moment, and appreciate the treasures of the great outdoors that shimmer, sparkle and wow.
Unplug and reconnect with nature with The Great Outdoors shades from left to right in the photo:
S’More Fun: Adventurous lemon lime crème
My Lodge or Yours?: Natural mauve crème
Cabin Fever: Pink to copper dup chrome
Let’s Dew It: Multi dimensional blue gray glitter
Gone Glamping: Gold to green duo chrome
Sleeping Under the Stars: Dark blue with stardust shimmer
Take a Hike: Rich mossy green crème
Check Out the Silver Fox: Metallic gunmetal gray
Free Bear Hugs: Deep black red crème
Change Your Altitude: Pebble greige crème
Not shown:
Pondering: Deep amethyst duo chrome
Wood You Wanna?: Rich brown burgundy metallic
I was sent this entire fabulous collection to review for my honest opinion! It is so gorgeous! I swatched all of the colors with two coats and no top coat. Here are my swatches:
S’more Fun
My Lodge or Yours?
Cabin Fever
S’more Fun is very bright! I usually don’t wear bright colors but it’s really fun! My Lodge or Yours? is gorgeous! The perfect pinky nude for fall. I love duo chromes and Cabin Fever is a subtle one. The orange is very autumnal.
Let’s Dew It
Check Out The Silver Fox
Sleeping Under the Stars
Let’s Dew it is such a pretty glitter top coat. It has blue, silver and a purple cast to it. Love! Gone Glamping changes colors in the light from green to gold. Sleeping under the Stars is the most interesting of the bunch. It is an extremely dark blue, but it has tiny bits of glitter in it. So cool!
Take a Hike
Check Out The Silver Fox
Free Bear Hugs
My Take a Hike swatch isn’t the best, but besides my lack of polish skills, you can still tell that it’s a rich color. Two coats completely covers. Check Out the Silver Fox is a bit darker in person, my swatch caught the sunlight and looks a bit lighter in the photo. It will be a fun metallic for celebrations in the fall through the holidays. Free bear hugs is one of my favorites, I love a dark red!
Change Your Altitude
Pondering
Wood You Wanna?
Change Your Altitude is a creamy gray, a really nice fall neutral. For a gorgeous, deep duo chrome, Pondering is a lovely blue. And Would you Wanna? is deep, shimmery brown.
All of these shades make me so excited for fall! I love the richer nail colors and will be sporting them soon!
Are you picking up any of these China Glaze polishes? Leave a message and let me know.
For more information, please visit http://www.chinaglaze.com or follow China Glaze® on Facebook (@ChinaGlazeOfficial), Instagram (@ChinaGlazeOfficial), Twitter (@ChinaGlaze) and Pinterest (pinterest.com/chinaglaze).
It may be the end of summer, but it is still pretty warm out! I went to the zoo today with my family, and I had to make sure I had my SPF! I know, though, that my simple summer make up regimen is going to become more intensive as fall rolls around. That’s okay, I am ready for it!
My faves this week include a fresh facial cleanser, a gorgeous highlighter, a primer sampler set, a brow marker, and hair care that will give you beachy end of summer waves!
Indie Lee Brightening Cleanser
Indie Lee Brightening Cleanser ($32 USD) — This antioxidant rich formula exudes a light strawberry aroma, which brightens the skin and the senses without overpowering. When applied to face and left to sit for 5-10 minutes (before rinsing), this complexion clearer acts as an exfoliating mask. It gently removes makeup without stripping the skin of necessary nutrients. It’s also a great formula for cleaning makeup brushes!
What I think: This cleanser has a light, natural fragrance, which I love. It isn’t overpowering at all. It cleanses really well without leaving my skin dry. My skin glows after use!
Gerard Cosmetics Star Powder in Audrey ($29 USD) — Whether you’re going to a breakfast at Tiffany’s or taking a Roman Holiday this will be the highlight for you. Inspired by one of the world’s most celebrated Hollywood icons, this Star Powder will make you feel your prettiest. Audrey is a warm champagne gold that is reflective and high shine. Build it up for an intense glow or dust it lightly on your cheekbones for a subtle sheen. Pure pigment and an ultra smooth and blendable formula will make this your go-to highlight.
Also available in Lucy, a rosy hue and Marilyn, a golden powder.
What I think: This is so pretty! It’s has an almost creamy texture and it is perfect for the new strobing trend, where you intensely highlight your cheekbones to create a contour. By “popping” the cheekbones, the face looks slimmer. This is shimmery, but yet subtle too.
Smashbox Try It Kit Primer Authority ($28 USD, a $53 Value) – See why Smashbox is the primer authority with this collection of our superstar primers in irresistible try-me sizes! These are infused with vitamins A & E, grape seed extract, and green tea.
INCLUDES:
Photo Finish Primer Water
Photo Finish 24 Hour Shadow Primer
Hydrating Under Eye Primer
Photo Finish Foundation Primer
What I think: I have tested the Photo Finish Primer Water and the Photo Finish Foundation Primer. I love how light the primer water feels, and it is really effective, my makeup stays on for a while. The Photo Finish Foundation primer feels really silky on and makeup last all day!
TouchBack Brow Marker ($19.99 USD) –Achieve bold, full eyebrows with TouchBack Brow Marker. This patented marker lasts all day and won’t rub off. The fine tip is designed to deposit the perfect amount of color for even, natural-looking coverage. Comes in the following shades: Soft Black, Dark Brown, Medium Brown, Blonde, Auburn.
What I think: Dark Brown is my perfect match and it blends in effortlessly into my brow hair. It gives a really natural look as it defines my brows. My makeup also looks more finished with perfect brows!
TRESemme Expert Selection Perfectly (un)Done Sea Salt Spray<!–
3.6
5.0
–> ($5.49 USD) –Get an effortlessly sexy, undone beach look all year-long – no matter when and where. This non-sticky formula, infused with Sea Kelp Extract, helps you create a sexy, full-bodied, tousled style in every strand. Featherlight polymers give you a natural-looking, sexy style without salty stiffness.
TRESemme Expert Selection Perfectly (un)Done Wave Perfecting Gelee<!–
5.0
1.0
–> ($6.29 USD) — Add soft control and definition to your Perfectly (un)Done style, when and where you need it. This lightweight gelee helps define and control waves, without being heavy, greasy or sticky. So your waves can move naturally, yet always stay in control.
What I think: Sea salt sprays are usually so spendy, but this one is affordable and it works. I spray it on damp hair and air dry it. My hair looks beach and wavy. For extra curl, ad a bit of the gelee, twist hair and dry. Hair is curly, shiny and not sticky!
Renessence Follicle Forever System ($135 USD) — August is Hair Loss Awareness Month, so I was happy to receive samples of this set for review. It is the complete Renessence system being sold at a web-exclusive price. When used together, the set will give you the best hair-thickening results.
Follicle Forever Shampoo removes dead cells, oil, sebum and product buildup that strangle the follicle, leading to unhealthy hair.
Follicle Forever Conditioner moisturizes, delivering essential nutrients for superior volume, shine and manageability.
Follicle Forever Serum, the exclusive cornerstone of the Renessence Hair Renewal System, tackles thinning hair by stimulating stem cells within the dormant follicle.
• For men and women
• For all hair types
• Fragrance/paraben/sulfate-free
• Safe for color and chemically treated hair
What I think: I have been using this system for about a week. I am very impressed with it. At first I was excited because it is sulfate-free and I color my hair, but I wasn’t sure about its claims of helping thinning hair. I can say that my hair looks so healthy after use and it is shiny and soft. I think the more I use it, the thicker it feels. I’m happy with it and will continue use!
Are your kids, young adults or even you going back to school soon? Mine did last week, and they are liking it, but are sad that summer is over.
New clothes and school supplies help to cure the back to school blues, but new beauty products can help, too!
Phuse beauty has great beauty tools, hair styling tools and implements that will help the transition to school and the cooler weather that much easier!
Phuse Hair Tin Closed
Phuse Hair Tin Open
Phuse Hair Tin ($10 USD) –Bad hair happens. Fix it with our Your Hair is Your Best Accessory Kit. 25 hair changing items that take you from eww to phew! All accessories are packed in a convenient tin that can easily be stored in the car, purse, gym bag, locker, overnight tote, lunch box, we could go on, but we’ll let you put it where you may.
25 Hair Accessories
1 Soft Headband (black)
20 Bobby Pins (10 black/10 brown)
4 Soft-ties (2 black, 1 silver, 1 gold)
Phuse Trim It ($33.95 USD) — Reallly? A hair there? Get rid of it—PLUCK IT! The Phuse™ Pluck It tweezers are ideal for removing unwanted, pesky hairs (even ingrown ones—yuck!), splinters and dare we say, blackheads (you are welcome). Constructed from professional German stainless steel, these tweezers can be cleaned and sterilized without rusting or residue, again you are welcome.
Phuse Trim It
Phuse Trim It ($28 USD) — Snagging, nagging hangnails and overgrown cuticles? Trim It! The Phuse™ Trim It cuticle nippers are equipped with a heavy-duty box joint, double spring tension and ultra-sharp tip closure that trim with professional preciseness. Constructed from professional Japanese stainless steel, the Trim It cuticle nippers can be cleaned and sanitized with our rusting, so start trimming.
Phuse Lets Work it Out – Detangling Comb
Phuse Lets Work it Out Detangling Comb ($7 USD) — This comb is all about getting your hair in tip-top shape. Separating, without tearing or combing out body—this So Smooth Comb really gives your hair a conditioning work out, of course without the sweat.
The Phuse So Smooth combs have been infused with: Argan oil—it’s all about hydrating and repairing damaged hair. Olive oil—shine, shine shine! That’s what the double OO’s will do for your hair. Keratin protein—feed me. Food for your hair, that helps manage and strengthen it—yum.
What I think: All of these products are fantastic! I gave the hair kit to my daughter to keep in her bag for hair emergencies along with the awesome comb — it detangles and adds shine! The tweezers work so well, they have a great point and grab fine hairs well. I do my own manicures, so the trimmers have come in handy!
My kids started school last week and I can’t believe that summer is over for us! But, it is still hot and I want to enjoy the last of these hot days by enjoying some new makeup that is perfect for summer!
This week, my faves include a tinted body balm, metallic tattoo jewelry, a summery pink lipstick, and a fun glitter nail top coat.
Miracle Body Transformer Tinted Beauty Balm
Miracle Body Transformer Tinted Beauty Balm SPF 20 ($34 USD) is a high performance tinted body beauty balm, with a silky smooth feel, formulated to address your body’s skincare concerns and give your body a total transformation. It’s definitely not just another moisturizer.
What I think: I have been letting my faux tan fade and I can really see the imperfections in my skin. This smooths my skin and makes it look flawless! I will be using this well into the fall.
Infinity Sun Goddess Glitz Tattoo Jewelry ($25 for 3 sheets) — Eirene – Goddess of peace and diplomacy (a mixture of tribal/ethnic/exotic jewelry including pieces for hands/feet) . There are bracelets, necklaces, feet and ring tattoo jewelry in this collection.
What I think: These are so fun and pretty! All the girls in my house are loving them, as they work for all ages. Plus, they are great adornments when you don’t want to bother with jewelry.
Available at shop.infinitysun.com
Smashbox Be Legendary Lipstick in Pink Petal
Smashbox Be Legendary Lipstick in Pink Petal ($20 USD) — Just one swipe and you’ll see this is the stuff beauty legends are made of. From modern mattes to hydrating creams, our ultra-luxe formula glides on for show-stopping, saturated color every time.
What I think: This is a beautiful lipstick. It glides on so smoothly and is very moisturizing. The color is well pigmented and lasts a long time. The pink is bright and lovely, too.
OPI On Pinks & Needles ($8 USD) Polish spreads quick, even, and leaves itself streak free. The brush also has stacked bristles which apply more polish than regularly spaced bristles. OPI polishes are designed with quality and excellence in mind, and almost exclusively sold only to nail professionals.
What I think: As a top coat, this polish enhances any polish with pink glitter of various sizes. It can also be worn on its own. Just a few coats and it will be so pretty!
Available at salons and beauty supply stores.
What summer beauty products are you loving? Leave a comment and let me know!
I was so excited to hear the butter LONDON — one of my favorite nail polish brands — have created powder eye shadow palettes! And was extremely excited to receive some of the shadows for review!
The palettes are called ShadowClutch ($39 USD) — They come in two beautiful neutral collections of shades, Natural Charm and Pretty Proper (from left to right). An ever-expanding wardrobe of flexible colour options at your fingertips, the butter LONDON ShadowClutch Palettes provide six primer-infused, oil absorbing, skin-balancing shadows that pack on true colour payoff. Show one off or layer them on with seamless blendability; you’ll crave the luxe range of irresistible go-to hues and textures. All this in a chic, customizable clutch that comes pre-packed with either cool or warm tones, featuring a unique, dual-ended brush for limitless colour potential and eye-popping style.
Butter LONDON ShadowClutch Duos
Butter LONDON ShadowClutch Duos ($15 USD) — Customize your ShadowClutch Palette with covet-worthy pops of colour! Style them individually or layer them together, these vivid, decadent shades are meant to take your look to the next level. Slide them in and out of your ShadowClutch Palette for an ever-expanding wardrobe of flexible colour options.
The shades from left to right are Up All Night, Moody Blues, Sassy Pants and Fancy Flutter.
Here are my swatches. The top two are from the ShadowClutch duo Fancy Flutter. The bottom six are from the ShadowClutch palette Pretty Proper. The shades top to bottom are Feather, Plume, Chantilly Lace, Suede, Brocade, Cashmere, Satin and Velvet.
There is a nice mix of matte and shimmer. The colors are very well pigmented and last a long time with the use of a primer. The palette includes a double ended brush that works well with the shadows, they are silky and glide on nicely. Plus, the neutral shades are perfect for fall.
My kids are going back to school this week! The summer went by so fast. And the fact that it is still blazing hot, makes it even harder to believe that it’s school time!
This week I’m loving eye makeup to perfect your smoky eye, a home waxing kit, a moisturizing lip crayon, a spray foundation and a tropical fragrance:
essence Cosmetics Smokey Night 1
essence Cosmetics Smokey Day 2
Essence 2 in 1 Eyeliner Pen
Smokey Eyes with ease! The NEW Essence Smokey Eyes Set ($3.49 USD each) combines 3 velvety shades with satin and shimmering finishes to create the perfect smokey eye in a few simple steps. Includes dual-ended sponge applicator. Available in Smokey Night 1, a classic smokey eye pallete in grays and Smokey Day 2, taupes and browns.
One eyeliner – two styles! Whether you’re trying to achieve a fine line for an elegant, classic look or a bold line for a dramatic look – with the NEW Essence 2-in-1 Eyeliner Pen ($3.49 USD), you have both options at your fingertips.
Sugar Stripease Kit ($19.99 USD) –Sugar StripEase isn’t just chemical-free: based on 100% natural ingredients, the exclusive formulation is literally good-enough-to-eat. It can be used on all areas of the body – from upper lip to bikini line, legs to underarms. Sugar StripEase is certified as cruelty-free by PETA and Cruelty Free International. This skin-softening blend has been formulated to be microwaveable, retaining its heat in the jar so you have plenty of `playtime¿ to treat the areas you wish to blitz. The pliable sugar paste is applied to the skin and the hair removed using non-woven strips (which make for so-easy removal) ¿ and since these can be washed and re-used many times, Sugar StripEase is the ultimate eco-choice for anyone on a quest for satin-smooth, fuzz-free skin. (Sugar StripEase has a long shelf life, with no need for preservatives.)
What I think: I usually don’t have luck with at home waxing kits, but I was pleasantly surprised with this one! I waxed my forearms. It took a little getting used too, but after a few minutes, my arms were soft and smooth! The first arm I did was a little red afterwards (user error, wax too hot), but I applied moisturizing lotion and it was fine after about an hour. The second arm was not red, so I know now to wait a little bit after heating up. I think this is a great product at a good price!
Trout Pout Bloody Brilliant Lip Crayon ($20 USD) — Opaque, light coral crème. Long-lasting, all-in-one formula delivers lacquer-like shine and high-fashion colour. Intense shine of a gloss and the highly pigmented colour with the full coverage of a lipstick. Slimline pencil with built-in sharpener is perfect for on-the-go lip lining. Helps to improve lip moisturization with Mango Seed Oil and Marula Oil.
What I think: This lip crayon is so moisturizing! It is creamy and highly pigmented, but also shiny like a gloss. Trout Pout is a summery coral perfect for the season!
Bairly Sheer Ultra Mist Foundation in Shade 3 Golden Beige ($12.99 USD) — Get the buildable, blendable, breathable coverage you want with Bairly Sheer Spray-On Airbrush Foundation. Bairly Sheer blends & looks flawless unlike ordinary makeup providing the ultimate buildable coverage without being heavy. The secret is a soft-spray that’s easy to apply, made for everyday use, and lasts up to 18 hours.
Dermatologist & Ophthalmologist Tested
Minimizes Fine Lines, Wrinkles & Texture
Paraben, Alcohol, Fragrance, & Oil Free
Water-Based Formula
Ideal for Sensitive Skin
Never Tested on Animals
What I think: This is a first for me, I haven’t tried aerosol foundation before. I shook it as directed and sprayed, but only air came out at first. Then a clear liquid, then the foundation. I found that the best way to get a smooth look is to pulse the spray in one area, then blend it with a brush or sponge. It gives a light coverage and evens out my skin tone. It also feels really natural on, not greasy or heavy. Great price, too!
Lavanila Laboratories The Healthy Fragrance in Vanilla Coconut
Lavanila Laboratories The Healthy Fragrance in Vanilla Coconut ($58 USD) — will instant transport to you to paradise! A carefree and tropical escape awaits with this exotic blend of young creamy coconut, sweet Tahitian tiare flower and warm Madagascar vanilla. Lavanila’s collection of all-natural fragrances is luxurious and addictive. Each fragrance starts with a warm base of Madagascar vanilla and layers on a unique blend of pure essential oils for an exquisite expression of nature that capture a mood, a memory or a moment in time.
What I think: This smells amazing! It makes me think that I am on a tropical vacation, even though I’m working. The fragrance does smell natural, I love that the ingredients are so high quality.
Recently, I was lucky to receive some of the newest Yes to products for my honest review. I have been testing (and loving) them!
Yes to products are always at least 95% natural, free of parabens, phthalates and SLS, and made with recyclable materials. And they also are affordable and very effective skincare!
Yes To Cucumbers Cooling Hydrating Mist
Yes To Grapefruit Pore Perfection Toning Mist
Yes To Cucumbers Cooling Hydrating Mist ($10.99 USD) — Consider yourself warned…this natural hydrating mist has soothing and cooling benefits that are life changing (and its aroma is addicting)! In just a couple quick spritzes, it pampers sensitive skin with instant hydration, thanks to a blend of cucumber, aloe, green tea, and elderflower extracts. It’s also infused with minty fresh all-natural menthol for a cooling kick that’s seriously spa-like. So when you need a shot of moisture that tempts the senses, close your eyes and spahhhhh-ray away!
Yes To Grapefruit Pore Perfection Toning Mist ($10.99 USD) — Want gorgeous, glowy skin? Give this delicious-smelling mist a shot! The natural toning spray (in eco-friendly packaging, naturally) revvs up radiance and reduces the look of pores thanks to grapefruit, kakadu plum, and infusions of vitamin C. It also delivers hydration and works wonders at setting makeup. Just be sure to close those gorgeous peepers before giving yourself a spritz!
What I think: I love both of these mists because they are so refreshing. They both give a soft, but steady mist. You can cover your whole face in one or two sprays. The Cucumbers Cooling Hydrating Mist is very moisturizing while the Grapefruit Pore Perfection Toning Mist is a bit lighter and is great for setting makeup too. And they both smell amazing!
Yes To Grapefruit Pore Perfection Paper Mask
Yes To Grapefruit Pore Perfection Brightening Peel
Yes To Grapefruit Pore Perfection Night Treatment
Yes To Grapefruit Pore Perfection Paper Mask ($15.99) — This natural sheet mask makes skin look bright and radiant and pores look virtually invisible. (What more could you ask for?) Each easy-to-apply, single-use mask is made from sustainable Tencel fibers and infused with a brightening serum featuring grapefruit extract and vitamin C. So with each application, your complexion looks more even and even younger.
Yes To Grapefruit Pore Perfection Brightening Peel ($15.99 USD) — Snap out of it with this spa-like exfoliating treatment that makes complexions look bright and radiant while shrinking the appearance of pores. Formulated with luminous-boosting grapefruit extract and vitamin C, it diminishes dark spots, evens out skin tone, and leaves your face feeling fully rejuvenated. (In other words, this peel gives you get the best of the zest!)
Yes To Grapefruit Pore Perfection Night Treatment ($15.99 USD) — Every sleeping beauty deserves to wake up with bright and radiant skin and practically invisible pores!That’s why this overnight treatment is formulated with grapefruit extract, lilac extract, and tea tree oil (plus potent amounts of vitamin c!) to help amp up radiance and reduce the appearance of pores. In fact, we love the dreamy, lightweight formula so much, we’ve been known to use it in the morning, too!
What I think: The Yes to Grapefruit line seems well suited for all skin types that need a bit of brightening. It is excellent for my aging skin! The mask is fun and easy to use. Place it on the face and wait 10 minutes. Then remove and massage the remaining serum on skin. My skin was so glowy afterwards.
The Brightening Peel is a quick way to get skin smooth and glowing. I like to use it in the morning about 3 times a week. Apply, wait 1 minutes and wash off. And in the evening, I apply the Night Treatment to cleansed skin and in the morning my pores look smaller and smooth. Love!
My children are going back to school in a week and a half. Even though summer is winding down for us, it is still blazing hot out! And, I still need to use summer beauty products to treat my skin during the hot weather.
This week I am loving a anti-aging power serum, a hydrating body lotion, moisturizing lip balm and a fun travel fragrance bottle.
Lancome Advanced Genifique Youth Activating Concentrate ($78 for 1.0 oz; $105 for 1.7 oz; $135 for 2.5 oz.; $175 for 3.4 oz.) — an innovative serum that sinks in instantly — and quickly transforms your skin. The formula works day and night to target the 10 key signs of youth (texture, resiliency, elasticity, firmness, sagginess, fine lines, wrinkles, radiance, even skin tone and clarity) and is clinically proven to offer noticeable results in just 7 days.
What I think: I have been using this serum for a short period of time, but I already see a difference in my skin. After use, my skin’s texture is more even and glowy. I am looking forward to continued use and to see improvements in other areas soon!
Available at Lancôme counters nationwide and lancome-usa.com
Curél Daily Moisture Original Lotion
Curél Daily Moisture Original Lotion ($7.99 USD) — Skin will feel happy and healthy all day long with this rich lotion. Featuring time-released moisturizers, this lotion hydrates and relieves dry, itchy, irritated skin. Clinically proven to provide 24 hours of continuous moisturizing, it will leave your skin smooth, comforted and intensely satisfied.
What I think: I feels that I need lots of moisture in the summer, especially on my legs and feet. This is perfect to apply after a shower or at night time, when you want extra moisture. The scent is very mild and creamy. It does not linger and will not interfere with your other fragrances.
Available drugstores and mass retailers.
Burt’s Bees Intense Hydration Lip Balm
Burt’s Bees Intense Hydration Lip Balm ($3.29 USD) — Sweet, juicy lips are always in season thanks to Burt’s Bees® Lip Balm with Coconut and Pear. This delectable moisturizing balm combines a juicy extract of vitamin-rich pear with creamy, hydrating coconut oil. The light formula, with shea butter, makes lips feel soft, replenished and healthy. Stash this lip balm tube in your purse or pocket for anytime dry lip therapy. It’s 100% natural and contains no parabens, phthalates or petrochemicals. Burt’s Bees lip conditioners are available in a variety of other fun flavors. Spread on a little TLC with Burt’s Bees moisturizing lip balm.
What I think: This extremely hydrating lip balm is also very yummy! It has a refreshing scent and taste. And you can lick your lips and feel safe, because it’s 100% natural! This is wonderful after being in the sun or for very dry lips.
Available at mass market retailers.
Travalo Excel
Travalo Excel ($19.99 USD) — We all know that airport security can be a little frustrating…make it less frustrating with this product. Available in 9 different colors, EXCEL holds 65 sprays so that you can travel with your favorite fragrance anywhere you go.
Travalo can be taken in hand as carry on luggage onboard planes anywhere in the world. Travalo has a unique pressure regulating system that makes sure the bottle adjusts to changing air pressure during flights, preventing any leaks, and enabling you to be fully prepared for landing!
What I think: This is so cool! You can easily fill it by placing the bottom of the Travalo on your favorite perfume (take off the spray cap first) and pump it so it’s full. And then you can take your favorite scent with you!
I’ll admit, the thought of using heavy creams and sunscreens when it’s blazing hot is not fun. Luckily, there is amazing skincare that works without making your skin feel like it has a pile of grease on it!
I have been testing some amazing lighter skincare including fresh masks, and after-sun gel, an SPF moisturizer, an eye serum and sheer sunscreen for face and body:
Indie Lee’s Clearing Mask
Indie Lee’s Clearing Mask ($60 USD) — It can be difficult to keep your face hydrated and also clear of blemishes in the hotter months. This mask will simultaneously rehydrate and detoxify your skin, leaving you simply radiant. Its fruit acids will brighten your complexion and with weekly use, you’ll have skin like you’ve started a new facial routine.
What I think: It’s difficult to want to put on a mask when it is hot, because you don’t really want goop on your skin. This mask is refreshing and my skin felt soft, but not greasy afterwards. It was also helped clear up the few blemishes that are on my skin from the summer heat.
Acure’s Cell Regenerating Mask ($12.99 USD) — Get serious cell repair with this mask. French Green Clay draws out impurities while Moroccan Argan Oil, CoQ10 and Seabuckthorn Oil add intense hydration back to the skin.
What I think: This is perfect for stressed summer skin. When I use it, I can feel it working and when I wash it off, my skin is smooth and soft! Great natural product for the price!
Korres Greek Yoghurt After-Sun Cooling Gel ($26 USD) — If you get a burn, don’t let it dry your skin! This is an ultra-cooling cream gel that provides long-lasting freshness and comfort to the face and body. Ideal for after sun exposure, yogurt hydrates the skin, instantly relieving excessive heat and stinging.
What I think: Luckily, I haven’t had a bad burn this summer (it’s too hot to go outside!). But this cream is perfect whenever I have had too much sun and my skin is a bit red and tight. It also works well on my sensitive skin if I have left a peel or mask on too long and my skin is irritated.
VENeffect Anti-Aging Moisturizer SPF 15 ($145 USD) — enhances collagen production, helps reverse sun damage and dramatically improves skin elasticity while offering broad-spectrum protection from harmful UVA/UVB rays. With the ongoing push to work SPF into every day skincare, this product’s lightweight formula is an easy way to ensure skin is protected while still providing the benefits of a true moisturizer and without leaving behind a white cast.
What I think: I love how light this moisturizer is! I apply it after my serum in the morning and since it has SPF, it does double-duty. Plus, it has amazing skincare benefits. I have noticed that my skin is smoother and clearer. I am hoping to see improvements in skin elasticity after I use it for a few weeks.
Available at select specialty beauty retailers and online at VENeffect.com, NeimanMarcus.com, Dermstore.com, SpaceNK.com, CosBar.com and Bloomingdales.com.
Christie Brinkley Authentic Skincare Refocus Eye + IR Defense Serum Infusion Eye Treatment ($69 USD) — Diminish tired and puffy eyes with this eye treatment. This potent anti-aging serum is infused with the Bio Copper Complex to reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in the delicate eye area while it firms, smoothes texture and tones the skin.
What I think: I have been using this light serum morning and night. It instantly firms the skin around my eyes and helps me look awake! The skin around my eyes also appears smoother.
Lavanila Laboratories The Healthy Sport Luxe Sunscreen for Face and Body
Lavanila Laboratories The Healthy Sport Luxe Sunscreen for Face and Body ($30 USD) — Always stay protected from the sun no matter how hard you’re working. This new generation of mineral sunscreen is infused with SmartSportTM Technology for high performance, ultra sheer protection that resists wear off from water and sweat.
What I think: I am always excited to find a lightweight sunscreen. It is hard to get my kids to use the thick, goopy kind! This is light and sheer. And I like that it resists water, it is great for swimming and outdoor exercise.
Forty, Flirty & Fabulous 