Haircare – Page 14 – Forty, Flirty & Fabulous

New Products For Perfect Summer Hair

Summer hair is, at the same time, easy and frustrating. By easy, I mean that you can sport uncomplicated styles like beachy waves and cute braids. It can also be frustrating to fight frizz and sun damage.

Below are some of my current faves for healthy and gorgeous hair:

Dessert Essence Island Mango Shampoo

Dessert Essence Island Mango Conditioner

Dessert Essence Island Mango Shampoo & Conditioner ($9, 8 fl. oz. each) — Infused with a blend of mango seed butter, organic shea butter and organic coconut oil, this shampoo cleanses with rich lather for soft, healthy hair. Use the delightfully scented Island Mango Conditioner tolock-in moisturize for smooth, silky, deeply moisturized strands.

Italian Lemon Shampoo & Conditioner, ($9, 8 fl. oz. each) — Formulated with energizing lemon oil, rich in anti-oxidant vitamin C, this deep cleaning shampoo removes product and oil build up without stripping hair of natural moisture. Follow using the lightweight Italian Lemon Conditioner to replenish hairs natural moisture while adding shine for soft andmanageable hair.

What I think: These both have such wonderful summer scents! The Island Mango is my favorite. I leaves my hair so soft. The Italian Lemon is great once or twice a week because it really cleans the product out of my hair and makes my hair so shiny! I suggest trying both!

Available on http://www.desertessence.com and at select Whole Foods nationwide.

Topganic Shampoo with Obliphica Oil

Topganic Conditioner with Obliphica Oil

Topganic Shampoo with Obliphica Oil ($9 USD 13.53 fl. oz.) — Luxurious shampoo, enriched with Obliphica oil, Vitamin E, Natural essences and Dead Sea Minerals. Our shampoo gently cleanses your hair while maintaining its natural moisture level. Nourishes the hair roots. Leaves your hair soft, healthy and shiny. Wonderfully fragranced.

Topganic Conditioner with Obliphica Oil ($9 USD 13.53 fl. oz.) — Luxurious conditioner, enriched with Obliphica oil, Vitamin E, Natural essences and Dead Sea Minerals. After cleansing your hair with Topganic shampoo, our conditioner helps maintain a healthy moisture balance for beautiful, silky strands. Provides your hair with a soft touch, healthy look and a beautiful shine. Wonderfully fragranced.

What I think: These all natural products are so good for the hair! It cleans hair without stripping it and leave it soft and shiny! The scent is soft and really pretty. This is perfect for those who are using only natural products.

Available at http://www.topganic.com

Unwash’s Hydrating Masque ($34 USD) — you can replenish lost hydration and leave the hair as smooth and as soft as if you had just left the salon. This moisturizing masque cleans without stripping natural oils, leaving nothing but shiny, healthy hair.

What I think: This fantastically-scented mask transforms dry, summer hair. After leaving on for about 5-10 minutes, my hair is so soft! And, it looks so healthy.

Available at http://www.unwash.com

Sun Bum Beach Formula Shine On ($19.99 USD)- Make sure to keep hair shiny, glossy and tamed with Sun Bum Beach Formula! The Beach Formula Shine On is an AMAZING lightweight oil treatment protects your hair from the elements while naturally hydrating, restoring, and strengthening it!

It’s color safe and blended with pure Coconut Oil, Argan Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil and Banana Leaf to ensure your hair is the silkiest EVER.

What I think: I love this oil! Just one pump works for my medium length hair. I apply it to damp hair and my hair dries soft and smooth! It is not oily at all — so light! — and it does wonders for my summer hair!

Purchase at Ulta stores and http://www.ulta.com

Scunci No-Slip Silicone Headwraps

Scunci Braided 3X Stronger Elastics

Scunci No Slip Silicone Headwraps (approx. $5.99 USD) — No-Slip Silicone Headwraps are the ultimate ‘fashion meets function’ must-have.

Scunci Braided 3X Stronger Elastics (approx. $3.99 USD) — Braided elastics in black, strong and hold hair without pulling or breaking.

What I think: These are both perfect for working out in the summer. They also come in handy on very hot days that I don’t want to wear my hair down!

Purchase at Walmart and drugstores.

What hair products are you loving this summer? Leave a comment and let me know!

My Beauty Favorites Week of July 20-July 26, 2015

This week has been crazy! Both my husband and my eldest daughter had their birthdays, so I have been very busy. Plus, it’s been extremely hot! It’s nice to have a beauty break!

This week, I am loving a beautiful blush palette, super-cute beauty bags, yummy-scented bath products and a pro hair straightener.

Mehron CHEEK Cream & CHEEK Powder 8-Color Palette ($40 USD) — Two beauty industry innovators, Mehron and The Makeup Show (TMS) have teamed up to celebrate TMS’s 10 year anniversary this Spring. To commemorate the show’s decade long commitment to Pro artistry, education and community, Mehron is launching a new, Limited Edition CHEEK Cream/Powder Palette. The stunning shade selection, brimming with bold, wearable seasonal shades, is a collaboration of color picks from The Makeup Show’s Director of Artistry, James Vincent, and Mehron’s Marketing Director, Stephanie Koutikas. The compact features both powder and cream formulations to provide endless possibilities for on-trend color and contouring with Mehron’s signature colors and lasting wear. The palette’s ergonomic, earth-friendly packaging makes it easy to transport and features:

CHEEK Cream shades: Tawny Pink, Bronze, Pink Coral and Red Rose
CHEEK Powder shades: Rosewood, Wineberry, Just Peachy and Bold Red

What I think: This is a gorgeous palette! It is so versatile — there are colors for all seasons and all looks. Dab on a little cream or powder or layer the textures and shades for a bold look! There is a lot of product in the palette, so it will last!

Available at http://www.mehron.com

LONDON SOHO NEW YORK Disney Mulan Cosmetic Bag

LONDON SOHO NEW YORK — (Mulan Bag $9.99 USD) — teams up with Walgreens to offer another dreamy Disney collection of cosmetic bags – this time featuring Ariel, Mulan and Pocahontas. Available exclusively at Walgreens, the Dare to Dream collection contains six new cosmetic bags that will keep you styled like a Disney Princess on your next adventure!

This imaginative line including a weekender, organizer, clutch and round top purse kit is inspired by the ambitious spirits of these inspiring leading ladies. Known for durable, long-lasting and on-trend cosmetic bags, this latest collection blends these courageous characters and functional design to dare you to dream like a Disney Princess.

What I think: These bags are gorgeous! They look like watercolors and they are dreamy and fun. Ladies and Girls of all ages will love these! I gave the Mulan bag above to my daughter for her 20th birthday today and she loved it!

Available at Walgreens stores and http://www.walgreens.com

Whish Soda Fountain Collection Orange Cream Bath and Body Gel

Whish Soda Fountain Collection Orange Cream Body Butter

Whish is excited to announce the launch of its exclusive Soda Fountain Collection to celebrate the 2015 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. With the flavors Black Cherry, Ginger Melon, Key Lime and Orange Cream, these delicious products will leave you wishing you were sipping on a glass of good ‘ol fashioned soda pop at the local ice cream parlor!

Lather up with Whish’s bubbly Bath & Body Gel ($15) and moisturize with super-hydrating Body Butter ($12) for a fresh scent of vintage soda fountain flavors and silky smooth skin all day long!

What I think: I have tested the Orange Cream and Key Lime body butters. The orange cream is sweeter and smells just like a creamsicle! The Key Lime is more refreshing and is perfect for the summer. The formulation of the body butter is moisturizing without being heavy or greasy!

The Whish Soda Fountain Collection is available in 16 ounce pump bottles from July 17^th – August 2^nd exclusively at Nordstrom stores nationwide and Nordstrom.com.

ISO Professional Super Spectrum Diamond ($189 USD) — – 100% Solid Ceramic plates to Achieve Any Style You Want. 1 1/4″ Floating Plates. ON/OFF Switch. Infrared Technology, Preserving Moisture and Protecting Hair from Heat Damage. 110 – 240V, 50/60Hz. PTC Heater for Safer Operation. Adjustable temperature Control 180-450° F 120W. 8′ Swivel Cord.

What I think: This is an excellent straightening iron! It heats up very quickly. I love how it straightens quickly and gives a ton of shine in one pass through my hair. I can style my hair so fast with this iron!

ISO Beauty’s partner site Proliss is having a great upgrade deal. You can trade in your current straightening iron for a a brand new flat-iron and 120ml bottle of argan oil for $39 ($119 value)!

Learn more at http://prolissusa.com/upgrade

The iron I was sent for review is available at http://www.isobeauty.com

Have you tried any of these great new products? What are you loving this week? Leave a message and let me know!

Want Affordable, Professional Hair Care? Try TRESemme

TRESemme Climate Control Mousse

TRESemme Heat Tamer Leave-In Spray

TRESemme Keratin Smooth Smoothing Creme Serum

I’ve was lucky to have been sent some fabulous TRESemmé products to review. Here a are few of my favorites:

TRESemmé Climate Control Mousse ($4.99 USD), featuring the Climate Control Complex, helps create volume, continuous shape and hold. Polymers help hold styles in place and keep hair glossy and smooth, even in high humidity. The collection also includes TRESemmé Climate Control Shampoo and Conditioner and TRESemmé Climate Control Finishing Spray.

TRESemmé Thermal Creations Instant Heat Tamer Spray ($4.99 USD) — Spray protects hair from heat damage associated with ceramic irons, blow–dryers and other styling appliances. A mixture of conditioning and protecting agents forms a protective barrier on the hair’s surface. It also works to replenish moisture and enhance texture, leaving hair soft and shiny.

TRESemmé® Keratin Smooth Smoothing Crème Serum ($4.99 USD) has a lightweight formula that can be used on damp or dry hair to control frizz and flyaways without weighing hair down. This formula protects hair prior to heat styling, leaving it satiny–smooth all day long. The collection also includes: TRESemmé Keratin Smooth Keratin Infusing Shampoo and Conditioner, Keratin Smooth Keratin Infusing Flat Iron Shine Spray, Keratin Smooth Keratin Infusing Smoothing Serum and Keratin Smooth Illuminating Shine Spray.

What I think: I use all three of these products (and more including the Keratin Smooth Shampoo and Conditioner) to battle the effects of Kansas City’s humidity. I use the mousse after washing my hair and it does keep the frizz at bay if I air dry or blow dry my hair. I use the spray before I blow dry it for a smooth, dry hair and the serum to tame any flyaways after I dry my hair.

The price is right for all of these products, as they work as well as more expensive, salon products.

Available at mass market retailers near you.

Beauty Brands at the Plaza Grand Opening in Kansas City!

Beauty Brands at the Plaza in Kansas City has undergone the ultimate makeover! It’s all part of a national, company-wide transformation. I was lucky enough to be one of the first to check the new look of Beauty Brands, as well as the exciting new brands joining the existing mix carefully chosen and championed by their experts, along with their expanded menu of luxurious spa and salon services.

The new space is designed with the modern American beauty in mind, and it has a cosmopolitan yet approachable look. It’s filled with upscale skincare, cosmetics, hair care, nail, bath and body brands, offering ample opportunity for play. Among them are several new lines to Beauty Brands, including L’Occitane, Origins, Indie Lee, Mai Couture, Nia 24, NuFace, Ren, Rodial, True Isaac Mizrahi, Nest fragrance, and Julep. I will be reviewing some of the fantastic new products I received in future posts.

I luckily was able to tour the store and I received a complimentary blowout service. The new store has a new blowout bar, which includes three specialty blowout options: the “classic”, the “super sleek” and “the breeze.” I had the classic, which gave me volume, but my hair is also very shiny and bouncy! My stylist, Alaina, did a fantastic job!

The salon also offers haircuts, coloring and updo’s. And besides the fabulous hair salon, there are so many other beauty treatments available. There is a brow bar at the front of the salon, you can get various luxury facials, body treatments, manis and pedis, hair removal and more!

So go check it out, do some shopping or get a great beauty service treatment. I highly recommend the remodeled Beauty Brands at the Plaza!

Beauty Brands at the Plaza is located at 438 Ward Parkway, Kansas City, MO — Call 816-753-8822 to book a services. The hours are Friday and Saturday 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

My Beauty Favorites Week of May 25-May 31, 2015

I hope you all had a great weekend! It rained in Kansas City most of the week, but was sunny today. We took advantage of it by going to the zoo today. It was so nice to be outside.

Each week in my favorites round-up this summer, I will try to include some type of sunscreen. It is important to use sunscreen all year-long, but especially during the summer when the sun can be extreme and we are outside more!

My faves this week include anti-aging sunscreen, makeup for a flawless face, floral scents and detangling combs for summer hair.

What are you loving this week? Leave a comment and share!

Obagi Gentle Rejuvenation Ultra-Light Repair SPF 30 Sunscreen Cream

Obagi Medical Professional-C SPF 30

Obagi Rosaclear Skin Balancing Sun Protection SPF 30

Obagi Gentle Rejuvenation Ultra-Light Repair SPF 30 Sunscreen Cream (approx. $44 USD) — A moisturizing sunscreen that helps repair the skin barrier while providing protection against harmful UV rays, with an exclusive blend of skin-identical ceramides and other ingredients that help diminish the appearance of the early signs of skin aging.

Obagi Medical Professional-C SPF 30 (approx. $54 USD) — UV rays and free radicals are two of the leading causes of skin damage and signs of aging. Obagi Professional-C Sunscare Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 defends against both of these harmful factors to help keep your complexion looking youthful. The formula also contains vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that protects the complexion against free radicals. Because the formula is lightweight and elegant, it does not leave skin feeling greasy or oily like many other sun protection products.

Obagi Rosaclear Skin Balancing Sun Protection SPF 30 (approx. $56 USD) — This highly protective mineral sunscreen provides chemical-free protection against UVA and UVB damage. Designed with a soft tint, it effectively disguises redness, blotches and rosacea-related blemishes for a healthier-looking complexion.

What I think: Obagi skincare is very effective in combating aging. All three of the above Obagi moisturizing sunscreens not only treat skin but protect it with SPF 30, which is so important for fighting aging and skin cancer. The Gentle Rejuvenation SPF is great for moisturizing skin, the Professional-C can help repair skin damage and the Rosaclear is a mineral sunscreen that has a soft tint to it to help with redness.

Learn more at http://www.obagi.com

Smashbox Photo Finish More Than Primer Dark Spot Correcting

Smashbox Photo Filter Powder Foundation

Smashbox Photo Finish More Than Primer Dark Spot Correcting ($42 USD) — More than primer = less dark spots! Makeup meets skincare with this primer revolution. 84% of women saw significant improvement in just 4 weeks with the clinically proven formula. It instantly brightens and primes to smooth the appearance of fine lines and pores, while fading dark spots and acne marks over time.

Smashbox Photo Filter Powder Foundation ($42 USD) — The special effects of Light Filter Technology and the performance of long-wear Photoset Polymers blend together to make this powder foundation magic. Not only does it act like your favorite photo filter on your phone, but it also stays true all day.

What I think: I still wear makeup in the summer, even on hot days, but I love products that are multitaskers. These two Smashbox products certainly are that! The primer is moisturizer and a primer and the foundation is foundation and powder in one great product. And they do work well together. After my SPF, I apply the primer than the foundation and my base is done! Easy and flawless, just like I like my summer!

Available at http://www.smashbox.com

Westmore Beauty Coverage Perfector 2-in-1 Foundation ($32 USD) — With Westmore Beauty’s Coverage Perfector, every woman can now easily experience Hollywood special effects in minutes–and with one product! It’s your sheer-to-full-coverage foundation and concealer in one that magically provides skin with the appearance of a flawless, airbrushed finish. Concealing everything with comfortable long-wearing coverage, the luxuriously creamy and hydrating formula provides a unique glow, leaving your skin looking radiant, and giving you the perfect skin appearance you’d expect from Hollywood celebrities walking the red carpet.

Coverage Perfector is formulated with a unique complex that helps to provide a beautiful glow to the skin. The Tri-Effects technology works on three connected levels of technology to help provide long-wear coverage, ultra comfort, and natural-looking radiance to the skin. This “special effect” will stay with you until you remove Coverage Perfector.

What I think: I was so excited to try this! I haven’t been using concealer lately, because I have been trying to scale down my daily makeup routine. This product claims to be a concealer and foundation — and it is! I start by tapping it under my eyes for concealer, then I apply it on the rest of my face with the fabulous brush that is included. Such a great product with a really good price!

Available at http://www.qvc.com

Conair Anti-static Detangling Comb ($3.29 USD) — Anti-static comb prevents flyaway problems. Detangle without causing split ends. Evenly distribute conditioner to hair ends. Use with any hair type for volume. For wet or dry styling.

What I think: I have been using this comb on myself (and my daughters) after baths and during styling. Leaves my hair smooth and soft!

Available at mass market retailers near you.

Essence of Beauty Rose Enhancement Body Mist ($6.99 8oz) — Escape to a vibrant and lush rose garden with top notes of bergamot and radiant orange, mid notes of strawberry, elegant rose and geranium bloom, and base notes of garden rhubarb, sunshine daisy and dewy musk.

Essence of Beauty Luscious Peony Body Mist ($6.99 8oz) — Pretty and playful, Luscious Peony evokes lavish floral gardens in full bloom, bursting with freshness. Sparkling white grapefruit and bergamot blend with notes of soft rose petals, perfectly accentuated by peony, wild poppy and magnolia to create this refreshing, vibrant fragrance.

What I think: Now that our peonies and roses are blooming, it is fun to have similar fragrances to wear that will last all year long (unlike the flowers themselves)! Both of these smell really fresh and are so affordable, and because they are body mists, they will last a long time

Purchase at http://www.cvs.com

Feel Good About Your Beauty Routine With Natural Products

There are so many wonderful natural beauty products on the market these days include natural skincare and hair care. I find that not only are these products better for you, they are very effective.

Below are some of my current favorite natural hair care and skin care. Leave a comment letting me know some of your favorites — I would love ideas for what to try next!

L'Occitane Peony Collection — L’Occitane Peony Collection

The peony, known as the “king of flowers” is valued for its unparalleled beauty and rarity. Embracing the absolute perfection of this elegant bloom, L’OCCITANE’s newest skincare collection helps to achieve a natural-looking complexion with their proprietary, Perfecting Peony Complex. Peony extract and mineral-based optical correctors help to visibly correct skin texture irregularities and minimize the appearance of pores and fine lines for stunningly beautiful, luminous skin.

What I think: I have been testing (and loving) this collection. The products left to right are the Peony Perfecting Essence, the Peony CC Skin Tone Perfecting Cream, the Peony Perfecting Cream and the Peony Perfecting Mist. They all have a lovely light floral scent. Used together, the skin care leaves my skin soft and glowing. The CC cream starts out white and blends to my skin tone. It gives a nice light coverage and my skin is smooth and even with use.

Learn more and purchase at usa.loccitane.com.

Mad Hippie Eye Cream ($24.99 USD) — From the dreaded crows feet to those tiring bags under the eyes, uniting the power of peptides & antioxidants, this product packs a punch. Contains a peptide formula that reduces dark circles under the eyes. Works to strengthen capillaries & veins, while increasing lymphatic drainage & circulation. Effectively increases firmness and elasticity of skin, while reducing swelling.

What I think: This is such a light cream that instantly absorbs into my skin. It hydrates the skin under my eyes and helps make the fine lines less noticeable. I use it day and night (I’m never without an eye cream). This one is affordable and works really well (and it’s natural)!

http://www.madhippie.com

Oil Essentials ($12.99 USD): A collection of natural beauty oils that nourish and heal to deliver healthy, shiny hair and youthful hands and nails. Packed with powerful yet gentle extracts from Mother Nature’s most nourishing plants and fruits, these luxurious oils inspire the senses with essential oils while providing glowing beauty benefits. These oils are free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic colors and are safe for sensitive skin. Oil Essentials is complete with six different oils to deliver outstanding results:

Argan & Wheat Germ – Aqua
Omega 3,6,9 & Evening Primrose
Neroli & Avocado
Seabuckthorn Berry & Borage
Sweet Almond & Macadamia
Lavender & Rose Hip

What I think: I always like to have natural oils around for my hair, cuticles and elbows. All of the above oils will moisturize and heal, but my favorite is the Sweet Almond & Macadamia because it prevents loss of moisture in hair and skin. It smells amazing. I love how it sinks into my skin and leaves it so soft!

Available at Walmart, HEB and Riteaid stores, as well as Riteaid.com. The company website is www.oilessentialsbeauty.com.

Salon Grafix Healthy Hair Nutrition Cleansing Conditioner — Salon Grafix Healthy Hair Nutrition Conditioning Cleanser

Salon Grafix Healthy Hair Nutrition Collection ($7.99 USD): An alternative to harsh shampoos and conditioners. The multi-purpose sulfate and paraben-free cleansers are formulated to rebalance natural oils with pure ingredients, leaving hair clean, soft and full of body. The single step hair care regimen replaces shampoo, conditioner, deep conditioner, detangler, and leave-in conditioner with these amazing sulfate-free Conditioning Cleansers.

What I think: I have been testing the Conditioning Cleanser for Dry or Damaged Hair. It smell creamy and a little spicy — the scent is Moroccan Macadamia. I use it in place of shampoo and conditioner, I just work it in my wet hair, leave it in for a few minutes and rinse. My hair is soft and manageable afterwards and is not left dry by shampoo.

Available at http://www.walgreens.com, Walgreens and Duane Reade stores.

My Beauty Favorites Week of May 11-May 17, 2015

It’s getting close to summer in Kansas City. Hot, humid and stormy! But, I am still loving trying new products, especially ones that will make me look and feel fabulous to and through summer.

This week I’m loving a new holistic makeup brand, a fast new hair dryer, and skin-smoothing skincare and an amazing smelling bath oil.

Geri G. offers a whole system of products that offer a holistic approach to nourishing and hydrating the skin, including foundation, a multi-purpose canvas, plush mascara, lip-gloss creme, and even complimentary nutritional components.

What I think: I have been testing the Transceutical Canvas, the Innocent Foundation and the Lip Gloss Crème. The canvas is like a primer that leaves your skin glowing and keeps makeup looking fresh all day. The foundation is a little sheer for me, but the canvas keeps it on all day. I think it will be perfect in the summer when I don’t want to wear heavy foundation. And, I love the lip gloss! It is very moisturizing and stays on for a while. The color is sheer, but very pretty!

Learn more and purchase at http://www.gerigla.com.

Jose Eber Quickshine Infrared Blow Dryer ($159 USD) — Get dry lustrous hair fast with this portable, professional grade dryer. This versatile blow dryer uses the gentle hear of Far Infrared light to dry beginning deep within the hair cuticle, decreasing drying time safely by more than 50%. The days of dry damaging heat, burns and hot spots are over with the Quickshine and you can say hello to shiny and smooth hair, fast!

What I think: Love this blow dryer! It is compact so it’s easy to use and dries my hair very fast. The very red light at the mouth of the blow dryer is a bit scary, but it is not as hot as it looks. Plus, there is a cool air button that you can use to add shine to your hair.

Available at shop.joseeberhair.com

New NIP+FAB's Glycolic Fix Products — New NIP+FAB’s Glycolic Fix Products

NIP+FAB Glycolic Instant Fix Mask ($12.95 USD) — Resurface, retexture and renew instantly with this gel like mask to leave your skin radiant, blemish free and visibly smoother. A favourite of Kylie Jenner’s, NIP+FAB’s highest level of glycolic acid combines with EVERMAT™ technology to gently smooth away the appearance of lines and wrinkles, whilst clearing and reducing the look of enlarged pores.

NIP+FAB Glycolic No Needle Fix Serum ($19.95 USD) — No Needle Fix is a revolutionary, intensive plumping and volumizing serum that fills fine lines, smoothes wrinkles and reduces the appearance of imperfections, improving skin’s overall tonicity and elasticity.

What I think: I’ve found that both of theses products work to smooth skin tone. My pores and wrinkles appeared smaller as soon as I first tried the mask.

Available at CVS, ULTA and Target stores nationwide

Rituals Fortune Oil ($15 USD) — The shower oil becomes a silky soft foam, leaving your skin beautifully soft. The ingredients Sweet Orange & Cedar produce a wonderfully warm fragrance. The shower oil helps you keep your summer tan for longer. The oil hydrates your skin in the shower, so that you lose less pigment.

What I think: This oil is really fun to use. In the shower it turns in to a foam and after you wash, it rinses clean. My skin is left soft and smooth. Plus, the scent is amazing it is both warm and sweet.

Purchase at us.rituals.com

My Beauty Favorites Week of May 4-May 10, 2015

Happy Mother’s Day to all of the mothers and caregivers out their that do so much for others! My daughters spoiled me today and I hope you all received the Queen’s treatment, too!

My faves this week are a random mix of goodies. From a battery-powered manicure kit, to an eye cream + brightener duo, to an affordable self tanner, to hair fibers that make my hair look thicker, I have been testing lots of great new products!

Slim Uno Portable Manicure Kit ($24.95 USD) — a portable battery-powered manicure kit. You can now keep your nails looking beautiful while traveling, at work, and
at home with ease. This deluxe kit combines the sonic power of Violife’s best-selling toothbrushes, with manicurist favorite nail tools, including a cuticle pusher, shaping file, emery board and buffer board.

What I think: This looked a little intimidating in the box, but it is really easy to use. It is great to carry in my purse for nail emergencies.

Available at http://www.violife.com.

Avon Anew Reversalist Complete Renewal Express Dual Eye System ($30 USD) — A brightening veil + hydrating eye cream, formulated with Tri-Elastinex technology. Instantly brightens the eye area. Over time, the look of lines and wrinkles around the eyes virtually disappears.

What I think: The eye cream instantly absorbs into the skin and the brightening veil leaves the skin around my eyes glowing! I use both products in the morning and the eye cream in the evening. My eye area is completely hydrated and my fine lines are lessened.

Available at http://www.avon.com

Ocean Potion EverGlow Xtreme Self Tanning Lotion ($5.49 USD) — Moisturizing lotion creates glowing, natural looking color while avoiding the harmful rays of the sun. Subtle color begins to develop within hours. Reapply daily until desired depth of color is reached with full color achieved in only three days. For all skin tones. Coconut and sunflower oils offer rich moisturization. Cocoa and shea butter deliver deep hydration. Vitamins A, C and E help keep skin feeling soft, smooth and looking summer beautiful no matter what time of year. Aloe vera reduces inflammation. Fresh, pleasant mango-lime scent — unlike other self-tanners with unpleasant odors.

What I think: I love the scent of this self tanner (not something I usually say), it is really refreshing! I also like how it moisturizes my skin as it tans. After three days I had a medium-dark tan that wasn’t streaky at all!

Available at Wal-Mart, Target, CVS, Walgreens, Rite-Aid, Kroger, Publix, Winn-Dixie, HEB, BI-LO, www.wal-mart.com, www.drugstore.com, and other retail and online stores throughout the USA.

HairMax Hair Fibers ($35 USD) — are natural keratin protein hair building fibers that blend and statically cling to your existing hair to hide any receding areas and provide dramatic density, volume and natural looking coverage, INSTANTLY! They are the perfect solution for men and women suffering with hair loss and thinning hair who want to change the way they feel about their appearance. Balding and thinning areas instantly vanish leaving you with a natural looking full head of hair.

What I think: I have used these a couple of times now. My part and hairline are thinning, and this made my hair look fuller. I haven’t colored my roots for a few weeks and the fibers also helped hide my grays. This is really nice when I want to do a nice hair style for going out.

Available at http://www.hairmax.com

Try New Hair Styling Products This Spring

In the warmer months, I use more hair products because my hair becomes frizzy and unruly. I am always on the lookout for styling products and tools to tame the beast!

Below are the latest products that I have been testing. They help condition, smooth and style my hair. Take a look:

Unwash Bio-Cleansing Conditioner ($36 USD) — Prep hair for a weekend of limited showers – Unwash is a new method to clean hair in a more civilized way, gently removing dirt and surface build up while locking in moisture, extending the life of hair color, and upholding you hair’s natural integrity. Essential moisture is locked in to restore balance and promote healthy, smooth hair. Combined with nourishing oils and extracts, hair is left soft more manageable, free of frizz and full of bounce, body and vibrant natural beauty.

What I think: This smells amazing and is so moisturizing! I have been using it as shampoo and conditioner for about a week, and really like how soft my hair is. I have just been using a little product with it (see below) and my hair has been manageable. Plus, I’m happy that it feels clean and not greasy.

Available for $36 at Unwash.com and salons nationwide

Keratin Smooth Smoothing Crème Serum ($4.99 USD) The lightweight formula of TRESemmé Keratin Smooth Smoothing Crème Serum smoothes away frizz for up to 48 hours and boosts shine. It controls frizz and fly-aways without weighing hair down, allowing you to enjoy shiny, satin-smooth hair all day long.

What I think: I apply this after washing my hair while it is damp. Next, I either air dry or blow dry it and it helps control the frizz. My hair is soft and shiny! I love how affordable it is!

Available at mass market retailers near you.

NEW! RUSK Heatshift ($18.00) — A restyling cream with a unique shapeshift ability that allows you to change up any style without the need to shampoo or re-apply product. Activate and reactivate with heat or hot tools to heatshift any style, anytime and anywhere. Provides color protection and strengthening benefits while reducing your blow dry and style time by 50%.

1st Style: Apply to damp hair. Style with blow dryer and styling tool for maximum results.
2nd Style: To restyle, apply heat from a styling tool. For maximum results set styling temperature above 120ºF/50ºC. No need to repeat Heatshift application after the first use!

What I think: I use this when I am going to either blow dry or straighten my wavy hair. Apply on damp hair. Then, when I want to change my style with a curling iron or straightener, my hair takes the new style well and is still soft and shiny!

Available at ULTA, ULTA.com, and Fine Beauty Salons Nationwide

Wet Brush Midi Brush ($8.99 USD) Detangle on the go with the new Midi Brush from Wet Brush. Smaller than the classic brush, but larger than the mini Squirt Brush, the Midi Brush offers everything we love about the Wet Brush, in a brush small enough to tote in any bag.

Perfect for use on wet or dry hair, The Wet Brush quickly and painlessly detangles even the thickest, most stubborn strands thanks to its revolutionary Intelli-flex bristles. Because the bristles don’t pull or put up a fight, even the finest, thinnest hair can be tangle-free without damage. What’s more, the gentle ball tip bristles provide a massaging action that stimulates circulation at the follicle, a proven benefit for hair health.

What I think: I have tried the Wet Brush before and I am really loving this smaller size! It fits better in my purse or gym bag. And, just like the larger Wet Brush, it detangles my hair quickly when wet (or dry)!

Available for $8.99 at TheWetBrush.com and professional salons nationwide

invisibobble ($8 per box – 3 bobbles per box) — A fun and fashionable solution to the age old struggle of deciding whether hair should be up or down, invisibobble is the only tieless hair ring that leaves hair free of kinks and creases every time. Keep one (or a stack of colors) around your wrist to pull hair off of your face into a comfortable up do.

Wrapped around any type of hair, the invisibobble distributes pressure onto several concentrated points around the ponytail, allowing for the hair to be held strongly, without being too tight or too loose. This effect of specific pressure distribution leads to a traceless result. Thanks to invisibobble’s no-tug features and smooth surface, women can avoid the common hair-tie headaches and prevent split-ends, both of which are often caused by a tight do’. The only tieless hair ring that is both anti-bacterial and hypoallergenic, invisibobble is made from polyurethane, better known as artificial resin, so it cannot harbor dirt or bacteria.

What I think: I have been wearing these since I received them for review! They are easy to wear and hold hair perfectly, even at the gym! I like that they don’t tear at my hair or pull to tightly!

Available in 8 fun and fashionable, bright and neutral hues, the invisibobble is sold at Urban Outfitters.

What are you using for your hair this spring? Leave a comment and let me know!

My Beauty Faves Week of April 6-12, 2015

Last week went by so fast! I went to two weddings this weekend and it was so busy. So, I am putting out my end of week review a day late!

This week, I have been loving a random mix of items — a blurring primer, a smoky eye shadow trio, a yummy weight loss drink and a cute hair band!

Lumene Bright Now Blur Line and Pore Minimizer ($19.99 USD) — The new Lumene Bright Now Blur Line & Pore Minimizer makes skin instantly more beautiful and even-looking. Helps to control shine and optically diminishes the appearance of fine lines and pores. Skin looks and feels instantly more soft and supple. The innovative texture of the product helps the skin look flawless even longer and keeps skin matte and shine free all day long while delivering a brighter and more radiant look. Oil-Free formulation.

What I think: This is my new favorite primer! Just a little goes a long way to smooth out pores and lines and to make a great base for makeup. I wear it everyday underneath my foundation and my skin looks great all day!

Available at drugstores and mass market retailers near you.

Smashbox Photo Op Eye Shadow Trio in Cover Shoot ($28 USD) — Our fab trios are all playfulness and color! Get rich, bold hues in just one swipe. Each includes 3 coordinated shadows-base shade, contour color and highlighter-so you’ll never wonder which shades to wear together again. You’ll even find application tips on the peel-back label.

What I think: Hello perfect brown smoky eye! These colors are so pretty and can make either a very dramatic eye or a soft every day look. The top two shades are shimmer and the darkest shade is a matte — you can use it as an eyeliner as well!

Learn more and purchase at http://www.smashbox.com

Celsius Flo Fusion On-the-Go in Berry — a great tasting drink for your active, healthy lifestyle. Studies show that drinking Flo Fusion™ before moderate exercise helps you burn up to 100 calories and more per serving, boosts metabolism, burns up to 93% more body fat, increases endurance and provides lasting energy to accelerate your transformation no matter what diet or training routine you are on. The great tasting Flo Fusion™ Transformation Accelerator Powder has the same benefits as the “ready to drink” Celsius and is available in Berry or Orange flavor.

What I think: I have tried both Berry and Orange a few times before a workout. Both flavors are good, I think I like orange better, but that’s just personal preference. I notice that I get good workout energy with these drinks. I don’t know if it’s helped me lose weight, but I am going to continue using them and see.

Learn more at http://www.celsius.com and purchase at http://www.amazon.com. Prices vary.

Dauphines of New York Front Row Darling Headband ($24 USD) — This glamorous, adjustable hair headband provides tailored fit, comfort, and ease of wear, allowing the creation of multiple hair looks. The timeless and design features an elegant leather centerpiece, miniature crystals on a silver base, a gunmetal link chain, and engraved hardware for the perfect accent piece to almost any outfit. The versatile design can be worn by anyone and the colors complement most hair shades. The included instruction card helps create easy-to-model hair looks.

What I think: This is so cute! I received a sample and gave it to my daughter who is really into the boho look, and she wears it all of the time. It is made very well and is so easy to adjust. And she gets lots of compliments. I also think it is perfect for women of all ages who want a fun look for a night out.

Purchase at http://www.sephora.com

What have you been loving lately? Leave a comment and let me know! I would love to know what my readers have been trying.