Hi All! August is here and summer is still going strong. I’m not a big fan of the heat and humidity, but I do like the glow of summer makeup and fun colors on my eyes and nails.
Here are some of the products I have been enjoying using:
Rimmel London Wonder Wing Eyeliner Stamp ($6.99 USD) — I have not mastered winged eyeliner. In fact, I’m pretty terrible at it. That’s why I was excited to try this liner. The end of the liner has a long triangle shape to stamp a wing. And that does work, but it takes practice. There is a point at the end to use it as a liner, but it bleeds onto my eye. My trick is to use the stamp for the wing and connect it with a gel pen or eyeliner pencil.
Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Summer Solstice Collection features 8 new, exotic shades. Plus, it’s great to wear on vacation and it lasts and lasts. Here are the shades:
● After Altar Take it to the dancefloor post-vows in a soft & subtle light nude
● Forever Together It’s fate! Raise a glass to a go-with-anything dusty purple
● Golden Glow Extend your summer glow with this metallic gold
● I Lava You Whisper sweet nothings donning a perfectly pearly pink (available in a duo pack with Miracle Gel™ Top Coat)
● Just Wanna Have Sun Enjoy bright, sunny days in a red-orange tint that evokes a tropical sunset (available in a duo pack with Miracle Gel™ Top Coat)
● Koi Coral Spend days snorkeling in a cool coral shade
● Ocean Daze Pick a marital-minded mint crème shade for your seaside escape
● Sea Gals Make it a magical mermaid moment in this shimmery aqua blue
I have the shades Golden Glow, Koi Coral, and Sea Gals. They are all gorgeous on! The Sally Hansen Summer Solstice Collection Retails for $9.99 each and is available at Walgreens.
Jergens Instant Sun Sunless Tanning Mousse ($11.99 USD) — I love this easy to use self tanner! Just apply this mousse to the body and let dry. Then you can dress and go.
Color will develop instantly and deepen over the next several hours. Use once for natural-looking color and repeat the next day if deeper color is desired. Availalbe in two shades — Light Bronze and Deep Bronze.
WUNDER2 Perfect Selfie HD Photo Finishing Powder ($22 USD) — I have this powder in the Bronzing Veil. It is a buildable finish that smooths the skin and has a nice warm tone. Perfect for a summer glow. This is also available in a Translucent finishing powder.
WUNDER2 Super-Stay Liquid Eyeliner ($15.95 USD) — This liquid liner is so easy to use. Waterproof and smudge-proof, the highly pigmented liquid eyeliner has a precision tip to create ultra-thin lines. It comes in 6 fun shades. The shades I have are Gold Mine, Red Velvet, Orange Pop and Electric Blue. Purchase WUNDER2 products at Ulta.com or www.wunder2.com
What new products have you been using this summer?
Summer is officially here, but it has been scorching hot in Kansas City for about 6 weeks now! Even though it’s hot, it is also humid so I stay inside most of the summer. That means any tan or glow I get comes from beauty products!
I have received the following products for my honest review from Josie Maran, Jergens and Hard Candy:
Josie Maran Argan Liquid Gold Self Tanning Body Oil ($38 USD) — This is a self-tanning body oil that features a blend of 100% Pure Argan Oil for intense nourishment and fast-absorbing 100% Pure Argan Oil Light for a semi-matte finish. Natural DHA helps give skin a healthy, even, natural-looking bronzed glow and the included plush mitt ensures streak-free, blissful application.
I have this in Hippie Beach, which I think is a new scent. It includes notes of lavender, sage, chamomile, and rose. It smells no nice! This has a really nice mitt that makes it easy to blend in. This gives a golden tan that looks so natural, which I love!
Josie Maran Argan Lip Sting Plumping Butter ($23 USD) — The subtle sting and proprietary lip-plumping complex visibly enhance lips for a voluptuous, juicy pout. Soothing manuka honey and moringa butter hydrate for smoother and fuller-looking lips.
The shade I have is Embrace It Honey. It’s a nice nudes shade. I feel a very slight sting when I apply, but it’s not a pure plumper because it also hydrates the lips. It’s nice for a natural, pouty look.
Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil ($48 USD) — There’s only one ingredient in this bottle: 100% pure, 100% organic, 100% natural Argan Oil. This nourishes, conditions, and heals. Absorbs easily into skin, intensely hydrating and leaving behind a dewy glow.
It’s always good to have a bottle of Argan oil on hand, and this one is 100% pure so I know it’s good for my skin. I use it to remove makeup, on dry skin patches and on the ends of my hair. Such a multi-tasker!
Jergens Natural Glow Wet Skin Moisturizer (#8.99 USD) — Glides smoothly on wet skin to instantly lock in hydration. and I towel dry it in. It is so easy to use and gives a gradual tan. I love that I pat it dry and I can dress and go! And the color doesn’t rub off of my towel or clothes. Plus it has a light, fresh scent. Available for Fair to Medium and Medium to Tan skin tones.
Hard Candy Glitteratzi ($6 USD) — Apply to eyes, lips or body. Apply one coat for a sheer layer of sparkle, or two coats for full impact liquid glitter. Available in 7 shades. The shades I have are Twinkle (pink), Star (gold) and Aurora (white and pink). These dry down and don’t budge, so I think they are best on the eyes. I don’t care for drying lipstick, but I love it when my eye makeup stays all day. Star is more opaque than the other two shades, so it looks amazing on the eyes. I’ve used the white as face highliter, it’s very glittery! I also might try them on my body or cheekbones. Glitter is fun to play with, especially in the summer!
Happy Sunday! I hope your Fall is going well! It’s still a bit warm in Kansas City, but hopefully it will cool down soon!
This week I’ve been loving a shimmery cream eye shadow, under eye primer (different) and a gorgeous tanning mousse to keep my summer glow going:
Ellis Faas Ellis Lights for Eyes
Ellis Faas Ellis Lights for Eyes ($42 USD) –The lustrous metallic of Ellis Lights delivers lavish results in new metalised shades that bring a radiant spin to your eyes. The luxurious liquid formula dries beautifully, coating lids in a shimmery smooth, crease-free finish. The new shades are:
E306 in Beige: Beige goes bold, with high-intensity, statement-making lustre. Glide on solo for a gorgeously subtle, reflective shimmer, or layer atop your favourite shadow for a luminous highlight. E307 in Chocolate Brown: Delicious, rich chocolate brown radiates immediate warmth and sexiness. Fierce and smooth, it glistens with multi-dimensional sheen. E308 in Dark Metal: This superior gunmetal brings the smoky eye into a whole new light. The bold graphite hue is hit with black undertones, ideal for instant drama.
What I think: These creamy shadows are very easy to use. I apply with the brush applicator, then blend with my finger. They dry fairly quickly and are so pretty on. They are shimmery, but not too glittery. The shades are beautiful for Fall and the packaging – that silver bullet – is cool and elegant!
Korres Greek Yoghurt Under Eye Priming Moisturiser
Korres Greek Yoghurt Under Eye Priming Moisturiser ($36 USD) — This advanced nourishing eye cream is formulated with Yoghurt, a centuries-old Greek skin soothing solution, and myrtle and rhodiola rosea extracts to reduce the appearance of dark circles, fine lines and puffiness. The cooling treatment perfectly primes the delicate eye area for flawless concealer application and is ideal for sensitive eyes prone to allergies. The ceramic cooling tip gently massages eyes with each application, giving eyes a refreshed and rested look.
What I think: This is a neat product! It primes under the eye for fresh-looking and long-lasting concealer. It does cool my skin and make it very smooth. Concealer applies very smoothly afterwards.
MineTan Caramel Self Tan Foam (34.95 USD) — Not too light and not too dark, Caramel is perfect for those looking for a classic, sun kissed, golden skin finish in as little as one hour. This easy to apply, streak free and self adjusting formula ensures a streak free, natural looking finish every time. Quadruple dark bronzers work with tan extending multi-vitamins and oils to deliver a picture perfect tan in an instant that continues to develop into a natural golden skin finish without the fake tan smell.
What I think: I don’t wear as much self tanner going into the cooler months, but I do like a bit to give my pale skin a glow. This shade of MineTan is perfect because it is not too dark, plus it’s customizable. I can leave it on for 1-3 hours, I just need to rinse it off after the time I want. It does continue to develop, but gets to the color that I like. It’s a beautiful tan shade and isn’t orange! MineTan also comes in darker shades like their Coconut and Violet tanners.
Hi All! I just got back from a big road trip with my family a few days ago and have lots of products to review! I thought I’d start with fun summer beauty picks since I was gone for the first day of summer.
I am loving the following products:
Tan-Luxe The Butter Illuminating Tanning Butter
Tan-Luxe The Butter Illuminating Tanning Butter ($36 USD) — Revolutionise the way you tan with our most luxurious, nourishing formula yet. A multitasking 4 in 1 replenishing and hydrating body treatment, skin perfecter, illuminator and gradual tan.
A lightweight, quick-drying formula with a unique complex of Vitamin E, Raspberry Seed Oil, Oat Oil and Coconut Oil combined with Cocoa Butter and Shea Butter. THE BUTTER delivers increased moisture to the skin that is clinically proven to last for 24 hours along with a natural-looking tan glow that develops within 4-6 hours.
What I think: This is such a hydrating body butter that also gives a beautiful tan. I apply it to exfoliated skin and let it develop for at least 4 hours. The color is very natural and not orange at all. I would love to try their tanning oils next!
Finishing Touch Flawless ($19.99 USD) — Introducing the NEW Finishing Touch Flawless, this year’s must-have addition to your beauty routine. The new gold-standard in women’s facial hair removal, Flawless instantly and painlessly sweeps away unwanted hair with a new spinning technology destined to make painful plucking or waxing obsolete. Flawless is so gentle it can be used every day without risking redness or irritation to your skin, and there is no downtime waiting for regrowth to remove hair The sleek and discreet white and rose gold façade is a serious upgrade to any vanity. With a built-in light and battery-operated design, Flawless is ideal at home or on-the-go. It’s also TSA-approved for convenient travel. The 18-karat gold-plated head is hypoallergenic and removable for easy cleaning.
What I think: I took this on my vacation. I popped it in my makeup bag, and whenever I needed to remove facial hair, it was easy and painless. Just use circular motions over the area to be treated and hair is removed. It takes a little bit to get all of it, but hair is removed (as well as dead skin). It is easy to clean, just pop the top of the device and clean with included brush. This is a neat little device.
Available at Walmart, Walgreens, Bed Bath and Beyond, CVS, Rite-Aid, Sally Beauty, Ulta. For additional information, visit FinishingTouchFlawless.com
Mally Beauty brings shimmering summer makeup:
Mally Beauty Shimmer, Shape & Go Blush Single ($24) — This formula is weightless, creamy and super blendable. This product allows you to create a soft blush for radiant skin. The design of the blush allows you to apply the product quickly by simply swiping it on the cheeks, creating the perfect summer look.
Available in Lighter and Darker
Mally Beauty Evercolor Shadow Stick Extra Eye Shadows ($25) — Provides quick application and long-wearing color that looks incredible all day. It is a multifunctional product – your primer, shadow base and eye shadow all in one. Once your look is complete, it will stay fresh all day long! Available in Autumn Shimmer, Bliss, Brownstone, Moonlight, Pink Champagne, Shimmering Mauve, Timeless Taupe and more.
Mally Beauty Evercolor Starlight Waterproof Eyeliner ($18) — is a high performance eyeliner that glides on easily and lasts all day. It’s perfect for those who want a long lasting product that can be smudged or worn alone. Try them in Caribbean Blue, Pink Champagne, Ice Blue, Starshine and Sparkling.
What I think: Mally’s products are always high-performing and gorgeous! I have the blush in the Lighter shade. It’s a shimmering coral pink that looks amazing this time of year. It can be blended for a softer look, but it’s also buildable. The eyeshadow and eyeliner are both very pigmented and blendable, but once they set, they will stay all day!
Treets Traditions The Alps – Healing In Harmony Collection
Treets Traditions The Alps – Healing In Harmony Collection– The Healing In Harmony collection is inspired by the medicinal ingredients found in the Alps, where weather challenges everything that lives. With a powerful blend of rosemary, lavender, grapeseed, and beeswax, the Healing In Harmony collection conditions skin and leaves behind a fresh and soft scent. This collection includes Foaming Shower Gel, Shower Gel, Body Salt Scrub, Body Butter, Bath Fizzers, Hand Wash, Hand Lotion, and Bath Tea.
What I think: I tried the Body Salt Scrub. It comes with a little spoon to help scoop the product out, which I liked. The scrub itself it perfect for pre-tanning or just getting rid of dead skin. My skin was soft and glowing afterwards.
This and other collections from Treets Traditions is available at Ulta stores and http://www.ulta.com
EO Certified Organic Deodorant Sprays
EO Certified Organic Deodorant Sprays ($6.99 USD) — The best way to stay fresh all day is to eliminate odor at its source. The certified organic deodorants contain no aluminum salts, propylene glycol, zinc salts, or triclosan that can potentially clog pores. Pure essential oils and organic Ethanol neutralize and eliminate the sources of unpleasant body odors to keep you fresh, cool, and clean all day long and can be used safely multiple times per day. Available in: Lavender, Citrus, Vetiver, and Tea Tree
What I think: I received this in Vetiver. It smells amazing, really fresh. It cools the body when sprayed under the arms. I think this is perfect for those who can wear natural deodorants. I need the extra strength stuff, so this only lasted a couple of hours on me. But if you don’t need clinical deodorants, this is a perfect choice!
For the first time, Dancing with the Stars Self Tanning products are available to all of us pale people who need some color. That’s such good news for me! And what are the products that current DWTS pro winner Emma Slater is loving?:
PERFORMANCE self-tanning airbrush spray – This micro-fine mist sashays across the skin delivering an all over, flawless tan worthy of a perfect ten. Utilizing advanced spray technology, it’s never been simpler to give sunless tanning a whirl.
PERFECTION self-tanning mousse – This super lightweight, velvety mousse glides as easily over one’s body as a professional dancer moves across the floor. With a simple sweep across the skin – an instant, yet long-lasting bronze color appears. Talk about a quick-step!
PRECISION single-use mitt – a blend of bronzers and nourishing, skin firming moisturizers that provides a simple to apply delivery system achieving a streak-free, natural looking, long lasting color. Adding to the applause this product receives, the mitt is lined with a plastic protective shield that won’t allow your hands to be tanned.
ENDURANCE color boosting skin perfector – This multipurpose body balm partners immediate skin illumination with a gradual build to a show-stopping bronze! Formulated to choreograph the skincare benefits of a CC cream, Endurance moisturizes, brightens, and firms – all while evening skin tone and extending self tanning color results.
BLENDING MITT Give yourself a hand! Applying flawless color every time has never been so easy. This blending mitt ensures even, streak-free application of all Norvell products – while the waterproof lining prevents color build up and DHA development on the hands. This product can simply be rinsed, air-dried and reused ensuring a perfect tan every time!
What I think: I received a blending mitt with the spray, mousse and perfector. This morning, I applied the mousse on one leg with the mitt and used the spray on the other leg. I applied lotion to my knees and feet.
Now, I am not the best at applying sunless tanning products and this is the first time of the year I’ve used them, so my legs were WHITE. But, I have to say they look pretty good now. The leg with the spray is more even, but lighter. My feet and knees look really natural and don’t have dark spots. The mousse leg is a deeper brown, but it’s a bit darker on a spot on my knee and my foot. But, it’s not very noticeable. I definitely need a second coat on both legs, which I will do tomorrow. But, Wow! Really great brown color, hardly any developing scent, and the scent when you spray it on is beachy and light.
The wonderful skin perfector is helpful to me when I miss a spot with self tanning. It also evens my body’s skin tone and looks so pretty on. It gives the skin a glow.
I really recommend this! And for someone who is not great at self tanning, I could wear shorts and look good right now! I love both products, but think my perfect formula would be to apply the spray first for a base, then a few hours later or the next day, apply the mousse to deepen the tan. LOVE!
These products are available at Walmart, Amazon, Harmon and www.tanDWTS.com
Have you tried these products or are you planning on picking them up?
It is almost Valentine’s Day! Always a fun time to try new beauty products to pamper your self. I’ve been ill, so we’re just staying home tomorrow, but I still want to look my best!
This week I have been loving some amazing cosmetics, hair care and a self tanner:
Cargo Cosmetics Swimmables Waterproof Mascara Top Coat
Cargo Cosmetics Swimmables Waterproof Mascara Top Coat ($22 USD) — Transform any mascara to be tear-proof, sweat-proof and waterproof! This invisible formula will coat lashes with a lightweight waterproof seal while maintaining the performances of your favorite non-waterproof mascara!
What I think: This is such a great idea! Most of my mascara is not waterproof, so I love having the option to apply a clear top coat when I need that extra staying power. Because, not only is it waterproof, it can help prevent flaking and smudging, too!
TouchBack BrowMarker ($19.99 USD) a fine tip marker that enhances the shape, color and fullness of brows. The marker delivers the perfect amount of color for even, natural coverage. Also, blends stray grays. TouchBack BrowMarker’s patented formula bonds to brows and skin, dries quickly and lasts all day. It won’t rub off, but can be removed with soap and water.
What I think: This marker it a fast and easy way to apply a little or a lot of color to brows. It stays all day and looks really natural on.
Skinny Tan Valentine’s Day DARK Chocolate Special Kit ($59.99 USD, a $165) — Some like their chocolate DARK – despite winter’s chill, you can look like the color of LOVE: Dark Chocolate Brown. Use this special kit to become your ideal shade:
1 Pre-Tan Primer to buff your skin leaving it perfectly smooth
1 Body Mousse to apply and leave overnight for the perfect deep tan
1 Luxury Application Mitt to keep the color on your skin and off your hands
1 7-Day Tanner to boost your tan and keep it from fading for weeks
1 After Glow Gloss to make your skin shimmer and shine
1 24-Hour Bronzer to keep on hand for a last-minute night out
What I think: This kit is a terrific value and not only gives a natural tan, but gives all of the product needed to keep it looking fresh for weeks. So nice to warm up winter pale skin like mine! There are other kits available as well.
John Frieda Salon Shape Hot Air Brush — ($39.99 USD) This premium hot air brush features advanced ionic power, 500 watts, 2 heat settings plus cool setting and enhanced airflow to help you achieve perfect style.
The 1½-inch barrel is perfect for adding gorgeous volume and shine to styles. The large titanium ceramic barrel gives fullness and body as you style, while the soft bristles create ultimate shine and smoothness.
What I think: I do find as I get older, my hair is losing volume. This heated brush curls and gives soft waves, or just roll it at the roots to get volume. I like that this also adds shine, and doesn’t dry out my hair.
Sun Bum Sea Salt Spray ($14.99 USD) Our Beach Formula Sea Spray protects your hair from the elements while giving it extra body, waves, and texture for that beach windswept look. Our lightweight formula enhances strand separation and definition, instantly blocking humidity that causes frizz. It’ll give your hair just the right amount of volume with a matt-finish hold. Mahalo.
What I think: First of all, the scent of this makes me think of summer! It has a very coconuty scent!
Happy Sunday! I hope your weekend has been awesome. I just watched Lady Gaga’s Superbowl half time show, and it was amazing! Now on to my weekly favorites!
As I look at my list of favorites this week, I can tell I haven’t been feeling well because the below products do help me look and feel better. From a super hydrating lip balm, to a spray self tanner to make my pasty skin glow, to temporary root hair color that will hide my grays — I have been loving these products this week:
Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Kiss Cupuacu Lip Butter
Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Kiss Cupuacu Lip Butter ($18 USD) — Sensuous Brazilian lips have a secret, a lip butter infused with nourishing Cupuaçu Butter, Açaí and Coconut Oil, leaving them soft and delicious, with a dewy sheen that intensifies your natural lip color and feels like no other. For lips meant to kiss. The Brazilian Beijo, our kiss, is a full-on, full-body experience that begins with the lips and takes over like a Rio wave. Try at your own risk.
What I think: First of all, this smells and tastes amazing! It transports me to an island or at least the warmer weather! And it moisturizes my dry lips extremely well. It is a larger stick, it conditions my lips in one swipe! Plus, the bright yellow container is easy to spot in my purse.
Fake Bake Airbrush Instant Self-Tan ($33 USD) — Fake Bake’s revolutionary self-tanning products contain only organic tanning agents with no artificial preservatives or parabens. Fake Bake Airbrush Instant Self-Tan is the easiest way to achieve a tan. The ‘shows where it goes’ cosmetic color guide assists you to apply a flawless tan and gives your skin an instant golden tan without blocking pores. The fast drying formula dries in seconds and will develop in just a few hours into a perfect, natural looking tan. The refined 360° nozzle gives a continuous spray that works at any angle, ideal for those hard to reach places.
What I think: I like this spray tan! I apply it in the shower just in case the spray gets everywhere. It has a touch of color to it, so I can see where I apply it. It dries really quickly, but does take a few hours to develop. I like using this on a weekend morning when I’m doing chores around the house. Or in the early evening. It’s a gorgeous golden tan, perfect for transitioning to the warmer weather!
Everpro GRAYAWAY Temporary Root Concealer Spray ($9.99 USD) — the fastest and easiest way to temporarily touch-up and cover gray roots. Imagine: no more costly, in-between visits to your hair colorist. In just seconds, you can spray away the gray. Unique pinpoint applicator provides targeted coverage. Self-adjusting color technology that blends with hair color. Fast drying & sweat resistant. Washes out with shampoo.
Everpro GRAYAWAY Root Touch-Up Magnetic Powder ($9.99 USD) — an instant solution to get rid of those unwanted gray roots. Unique, binding formula attaches along each hair strand like magnets providing the ultimate coverage that stays put all day long. Self-adjusting color technology blends undetectably and matches hair color perfectly. Hidden sponge applicator allows for precise control and coverage. Mineral-infused powder leaves hair soft, shiny and natural to the touch. Perfect for on the go & small enough for travel. No flyaways or dusting!
Everpro Back2Blonde Root Concealer Spray ($12.99 USD) — the instant at-home fix for dark and gray roots. Revolutionary spray-and-go formula, for visible blending in seconds that stays put until you shampoo. Prismatech pigments self-adjust to match and blend visible dark and gray roots. Natural emollients give hair a healthy shine and natural feel. Pinpoint applicator for targeted coverage only where you want it. Quick-dry formula dries in 2-3 minutes.
What I think: I have dark brown hair, so I tried the Root Touch Up and the Root Concealer spray in that shade. Both products are extremely easy to use. The powder has a sponge in the bottom of it. It applies well, but needs a few coats to really cover my gray. The spray has a pinpoint nozzle on it that makes it easy to apply where needed. Both products last all day and don’t rub off.
These products are available at CVS and Walgreens
What products have you been loving this week (and what did you think of Lady Gaga’s show)???
I am loving that it’s autumn! Even though it’s still pretty warm in Kansas City, there is a nip in the air at night and the leaves are falling.
According to TheKnot.com, Fall is the most popular season to wed. So whether it’s your big day or your best friend’s, you want to have your brightest, most youthful wedding-worthy skin. After all, the photos will last a lifetime!
Below is a regimen to get skin ready for a big event. This will also work for a holiday event like a Christmas party, New Years, even Valentine’s Day. Any occasion that you want to look your best for will benefit from these products:
Dermarche Labs BioREWIND AM
Dermarche Labs BioREWIND PM
2 Months ahead: BioREWIND AM & PM: BioREWIND ($125 USD each) — AM offers the first full-spectrum antioxidant blend, while BioREWIND PM provides a proprietary retinoid linked with lactic acid to form a unique molecule that provides maximum effectiveness with minimal irritation. The two serums work hand in hand to achieve a more youthful complexion by eliminating fine lines and wrinkles, dullness, uneven skin tone and loss of firmness.
What I think: I have been using these for a few weeks and I like how my skin is firmer and my skin tone seems brighter. I always use a serum under my moisturizer, so this is an easy step to remember. And the benefits they give are amazing!
1 Month ahead- NeoCutis MICRO-FIRM Neck & Décolleté ($135 USD) For plunging necklines, use this targeted cream containing a concentrated blend of ingredients precisely formulated to combat visible signs of aging on the delicate skin of the neck & décolleté. This intensive complex is supercharged with MPC™ and packed with antioxidants and moisturizers as well as exfoliating properties to encourage cell turnover for a softer and more luminous appearance.
What I think: As we get older are necks start to sag and of course, now we have to deal with tech neck. Although I sometimes forget to use a neck cream, it’s so important! Now that I have this product, I use it twice a day. It sinks right into the skin (does not leave it greasy at all), and it firms a bit right a way. over time skin is smoother and firmer.
Physician Dispensed, learn more at Neocutis.com
MD Complete Anti-Aging 3-Day Booster Pack
3 Days before – MD Complete Anti-Aging 3-Day Booster Pack ($19.99 USD) A 3-step regimen designed to replicate the benefits of in-office peels. All three steps work together, and they’re all you need to use for three days to brighten and even skin tone, reduce the appearance of fine lines/wrinkles, smooth rough texture, and brighten complexion, as well as boost long-term skincare results. The pack can be easily incorporated into any skincare regimen and delivers immediate results.
What I think: This is s cool system. You get three days worth of a three step peel: a cleanser, a peel and a moisturizer. After three days, my skin was smooth and my lines looks so much better.
1 Day before – Manuka Doctor ApiBronze Anti-Cellulite Bronzing Gel ($24.95 USD) Enriched with moisturizing ingredients to leave a silky smooth finish, this non-sticky formula smoothes on evenly and blends flawlessly leaving skin refreshed & hydrated. This unique uplifting Bronzing Gel helps reduce the appearance of cellulite & improves skin’s firmness for younger looking body contours & contains Purified Bee Venom & Manuka honey to help visibly promote skin’s elasticity. Develops a natural bronze just an hour after application but use the day before and day of to build up a healthy, even glow.
What I think: This gradual tanning gel is perfect for the big day. I’ve noticed that it does smooth skin, it’s great for legs! It’s great if you are wearing a dress but do not want to wear tights!
Morning Of – Dermarché Labs Roloxin Lift: (5 Count – $45.00; 10 Count $79) On the big day, give yourself an instant face lift with this wrinkle-smoothing mask, effective minutes after application and lasting up to 24 hours. By improving facial texture and reducing the appearance of both wrinkles and pores, it will leave you with refreshed, truly radiant skin and a flawless base for makeup application.
What I think: This is an easy way to get rid of wrinkles and large pores instantly (and temporarily). Just squeeze the packet for 20 seconds, apply over damp skin, and rinse off once it turns into a white powder. Face is smooth and so much younger looking! Perfect for a special occasion.
It’s been cooling down in Kansas City this week and the weather has been pleasant. My kids go back to school this week, and I am trying to squeeze the last bits of summer that I can!
This week I am loving a hair removal device, a fresh fragrance oil and a self-tanner with natural ingredients:
Me Chic Compact Permanent Hair Reduction Device
Me Chic Compact Permanent Hair Reduction Device ($199.00 USD) — The chic Compact Permanent Hair Reduction Device uses patented technology clinically proven to be safe and effective on all skin tones, even dark, and the widest range of hair colors, even blonde – something no other at-home hair removal technology can claim.
Compact, professional, at-home hair removal technology in the palm of your hand. Small and lightweight, the chic is convenient to use both at home and away – treat targeted areas in just minutes. With dermatologist recommended technology, the chic Compact Permanent Hair Reduction Device uses the only FDA-cleared technology that targets and permanently disables the hair follicle to stop hair growth on small areas, like the face, underarm, or bikini area, for permanent results.
What I think: This is an easy to use, and fairly affordable, hair removal device. I haven’t tried it yet, but am hoping to test it soon. I think it is amazing that it can be used on any skin tone and hair color!
Soap & Paper Factory Green Tea Perfume Oil ($16 USD) — Crafted in small batches, the rollerball Perfume Oils stimulate your mind, body and spirit. Great for personal fragrance, and for maximum benefits use the rollerballs on temples and pressure points such as your crown chakra, bottoms of your feet and solar plexus and when put in the fridge, the stainless steel applicator will revive your senses!! Citrus, Tea Leaves and a hint of Anise will leave you feeling refreshed and happy.
What I think: Fragrance oils are fun because they last longer in the oil form on the skin. Just a few swipes of this fresh scent and it last all day. I love the Green Tea scent, but it also comes in Lavender, Gardenia and Jasmine.
Skinny Tan Pre-Tan Primer ($24.95 USD) –The perfect way to prep your skin before you tan. Remove any dry or dead skin cells with this crushed walnut shell primer. Help achieve a perfect finish to your tan. Note you should always prime a few hours before you tan, not immediately before.
Skinny Tan Gradual Tanner ($29.95 USD) — A beautiful white body butter cream with lower levels of Natural tanning active so you can layer up each day until you reach the perfect depth of tan. Combined with the natural cellulite active Guarana.
What I think: This natural duo can really produce a nice warm tan. The primer is the perfect first step, it readies the skin for the tanner. The gradual tanner is the perfect way to build a smooth, deep tan.
I love to use self tanning products in the summer. I have very light skin and I try not to spend too much time in the sun. A good self tanner is essential to a great glow in the summer time!
Million Dollar Tan recently sent me some products for my honest review. I really enjoyed how easy they are to use. Here are my faves:
Mermaid Mousse Extreme Face and Body Dark Sunless Tanning Mousse
Mermaid Mousse Extreme Face and Body Dark Sunless Tanning Mousse ($74.00 for the pair, or purchase them separately) — Mermaid Mousse Extreme is a more intense, yet just as fabulous, version of our whipped tanning mousse. Still ultra-light and effortless to apply, it has an extra boost of color for those with darker skin tones or anyone wishing to be ultra-bronzed. Don’t let the word “extreme” scare you off—like all of our products, this mousse provides a gradual, buildable color that always looks natural. It’s also packed with vitamins and seriously hydrating moisturizers for enviably smooth, soft skin. Use it with our extreme face mousse for the rich all-over color you crave!
Mermaid Mousse Extreme Face is a deeper, richer, more intense version of our luxurious whipped face mousse. It’s perfect for anyone wishing to be ultra-tanned! We’ve added our revolutionary new FaceFirmTM Age Defense Super Pack, clinically proven to dramatically lift, firm and tone skin. This fabulously light formula won’t clog pores and is effortless to apply; you’ll have a stunningly irresistible glow in no time! Put your best face forward every day with this dazzling, multi-tasking mousse!
What I think: This dynamic duo has really given me a great summer glow! This is a buildable color, so the first time I used it, I got a fair to medium tan. But using it every day or every other day increased the color to a beautiful deep tan. It is a creamy mousse that blends so well!
Million Dollar Tan Summer Sun
Summer Sun ($42 USD) has it all—it’s everything you need for gorgeous, summer-ready skin in one bottle! Based on our best-selling line of Mermaid Mousses, this amazingly light and airy mousse will give you an even, all-over tan that’s even darker and more luminous than our Extreme formulas. With rich, ultra-bronze tones and a natural sheen, you’ll have a perfect tan that will leave you wondering how you ever got through the summer without this product. SUMMER SUN also contains our exclusive TANlock technology, a proprietary blend of botanicals designed to make your tan last longer, stay more radiant and fade more evenly. And because no one wants to smell like sunless tanner, we’ve added Deoplex, a natural odor neutralizer that keeps tanning a totally fresh and revitalizing experience for all of your senses. Like all of our formulas, SUMMER SUN is completely natural and made with raw, organic DHA, so use it as often as you like for the best tan (and summer!) you’ve ever had!
What I think: Another easy to blend mousse, this one is perfect for those who want a darker tan that what you get with Mermaid Mousse Extreme. This is Million Dollar Tan’s newest mousse and it is as easy to use as their other products. It’s just the thing when you need a darker tan quickly, instead of using a gradual tanner.
Million Dollar Tan All That Shimmers Dry Oil Shimmer
All That Shimmers Dry Oil Shimmer ($32 USD) — This amazing dry oil shimmer adds an extra bit of bronze sheen to your sunless tan, or use it on its own for just a touch of color and subtle luminosity. Hydrating botanicals pack a powerful, skin smoothing punch—even dull, dry skin becomes instantly refreshed and radiant. Perfectly shimmery and never glittery, it’s party-ready sheen that’s actually good for your skin! With a hint of bronzer and a bit of shimmer, you’ll dazzle in the sunlight or the limelight.
What I think: I usually don’t use a lot of shimmer on my body, but this is a very nice product. It is easy to blend to add color and shimmer. I like to apply it to legs, shoulders and décolletage. It is nice for going out because it adds a glow to the skin.
Blend Friend Tanning Mitt Set
Blend Friend Tanning Mitt Set ($24 USD) — Made with a one-of-a-kind micro-soft sponge material, this face and body mitt set is ultra soft and makes it easy to apply any sunless tanner, even in difficult or hard to reach areas. The special stretchy fabric and unique design allow you to comfortably place your hand inside the mitt for superior control over where and how much tanner you apply. The inner lining ensures that tanning product does not find it’s way to your hands, protecting your palms from becoming too tan. With separate mitts for the face and body, these are the only accessories you’ll need to have an even, smooth and perfectly blended sunless tan every time.
What I think: I love these mitts! They are easy to use, are so soft and blend like a dream! The only thing is that if you use a lot of mousse with them, it does soak through a little. But I just wash my hands afterwards and it doesn’t stain.
Forty, Flirty & Fabulous 