Forty, Flirty & Fabulous

My Beauty Favorites — Week of August 29 – September 4, 2016

I hope everyone had a great, long weekend! It is still very hot in Kansas City, but I am looking forward to the autumn and cooler weather!

This week I have a hodgepodge of products to review! The include sunscreen and after sun lotion (always needed), tools to make your eyes pop, a natural body lotion and a fresh fragrance:

Sun Bum Continuous Spray Sunscreen

Sun Bum Cool Down Hydrating After Sun Lotion

Sun Bum Continuous Spray Sunscreen ($15.99 USD) — Speed up your sunscreen application without skimping on coverage with this quick-dry spray, available in SPF 15, 30, 50 and 70.

Sun Bum Cool Down Hydrating After Sun Lotion ($11.99 USD) — Complete the post-beach ritual with the ultimate post-sun skincare: Sun Bum’s Cool Down products. This supreme indulgence revives sun-sapped skin with Vitamin E and Cocoa Butter. Insanely soothing and incredible smelling, the products are like a beach in a bottle.

What I think: I love the tropical scent of these products! They will keep summer lasting

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

MUA Perfect Contour Eyelash Curler

MUA Precision Point Tweezer

MUA Perfect Contour Eyelash Curler ($10 USD) — Who says you can only contour cheekbones? With this precisely designed full head curler, get close to your lash line for a dramatic curl. Aligned handles ensure full stability and control to prevent any ouch moments.

MUA Precision Point Tweezer ($10 USD) — Remove short, delicate or hard-to-grab hairs with this defined shaped tweezer, made of high-quality stainless steel.

MUA Lash Separator ($9 USD) — To be used after mascara application, this separator with comfort grip handle removes clumps for fluttery lashes. – The fine, metal comb of the separator is contoured to fit the shape of your lashes, while they gently separate and sculpt for superb lash definition.

What I think: These cool new tools make my eyes look amazing! I like the curler, but it does take some getting used to. The rubber pad is big and it makes it a little tricky to grab my lashes. But once I do, it curls my lashes nicely. And speaking of lashes, the lash separator helps remove clumps after mascara application. I have never seen anything like this, but it’s really easy to use because it fits the shape of my eyes.

The tweezers are perfect for removing those little hairs that evade — and also work well with my husbands splinters!

Purchase at CVS stores and http://www.cvs.com

Lavanila The Healthy Body Butter in Pure Vanilla ($19 USD) — This super soft, all-natural body butter absorbs instantly for deeply hydrated, luxuriously soft skin. 100 percent pure shea and cocoa butters blend with powerful antioxidants and essential oils for long-lasting hydration. Five sweet-smelling scents and a non-greasy formula create the ultimate indulgence.

What I think: I love this body butter, and may have tried it in all of it’s amazing scents. This is the original Pure Vanilla, and it is a sexy scent for the fall. It’s really rich and sultry. And it moisturizes so well! It keeps my skin soft all day.

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

Katy Perry’s Mad Love ($29.98 USD) — This fruity scent opens with the succulence of Lady Apple Sorbet and Mara Strawberry blended to perfection with freshness of delicious Pink Grapefruit. Middle notes of Peony Petals, smooth Sun-Kissed Jasmine, and the hypnotic pull of the Bleeding Heart flower captivate the senses.

What I think: This smells so fresh and sweet. I think that it would be a great gift for teens and women of all ages. It also is light enough to work well for all seasons!

Available at Kohls stores and http://www.kohls.com

What products are you loving this week?

Gorgeous And Affordable Fall Makeup From Essence and Catrice

Ready to change up your look for fall? I received some fun products from essence and Catrice Cosmetics for my honest review. These are affordable, but really high quality cosmetics.

Below are my faves of the bunch:

Essence Pure Nude Highlighter ($4.49 USD) — Bring out your natural glow with this baked powder that has a slightly marbled effect. Works on any skin tone and is perfect for adding a subtle shimmer to your face.

What I think: This beautiful highlighter matches with my skin tone perfectly. A little can be used for a lit-from-within glow, or I can layer to full on strobe. So pretty for day time!

Essence 2 in 1 Eyeshadow and Liner ($4.49 USD) — This waterproof chubby eyeshadow stick combines the benefits of eyeshadow and eyeliner with its conic tip that doesn’t need sharpening. The creamy texture can be easily blended and is extremely long lasting. Available in 4 shades.

What I think: I have this in a light color called Light Me Up. It’s perfect for highlighting the corners of the eyes and under the brow bone, as well as using all over the lid for more subtle looks.

Essence Smokey 2-in-1 Khôl Liner ($3.49 USD) — The ultra-pigmented and ultra-versatile khôl liner you love in black is now available in white and brown! Use the pointed tip as a precise eyeliner, rotate to the side of the cone to swipe over the lid as an eyeshadow for an intense, smokey look. It glides on smoothly and the conic shape of the tip eliminates the need for a sharpener. Now available in a total of 3 shades.

What I think: I have been testing this in Smokey Brown. It is a really rich color with a little shimmer to it. It is smooth and easy to apply. The only issue I have with it is that it can smear easily. So I like to set it with dark brown powder shadow so it won’t budge.

Essence Prettifying Lip Oil ($2.99 USD) — The lightweight texture instantly melts and leaves lips with a subtle shiny finish and sweet taste. This formula contains Jojoba Oil that ensures moisturized and smooth lips sans stickiness. Available in 3 shades.

What I think: The shade in the photo is SOS, My Heart. It is a sheer red that smells and tastes fruity. It feels to me more like a lip gloss than a lip oil, but I really like it. It gives very slight color and lots of shine! It also makes my lips very hydrated.

Purchase essence products at http://essencemakeup.com

Catrice Liquid Metal Eyeshadow ($4.99 USD) — Heavy metal! Catrice Liquid Metal Eyeshadow dazzles eyes with high pigmentation and extraordinary metallic shine. Reminiscent of liquid metal, this silky powder is sure to make your eyes shine instantly. The unique 3D embossment turns this eyeshadow into an absolute highlight. The texture is smooth, easy to blend, and long-lasting. Mix and match to create brilliant metallic looks. Not tested on animals.

What I think: The color above is We Are The Champagnes. It looks gold in the compact, but is a soft champagne on. Very shimmery and well pigmented! The shadow is buildable and can look subtle or all out metal-y.

Catrice Luxury Lashes Volume Mascara Ultra Black ($7.99 USD) — Big, Bold and Beautiful! Luxury Lashes Ultra Black Volume Mascara from Catrice provides lashes with the perfect volume and curl – all with one swipe of the wand! Enriched with Argan oil and a luxurious cashmere protein, the formula cares for the lashes as it creates dramatic volume. A twisted fiber brush captures the ideal amount of formula to coat your lashes from root to tip for maximum impact. Not tested on animals. Ophthalmologically tested.

What I think: This mascara gives lots of volume. I usually go for lengthening mascaras, since my lashes are short, but this would be a great daytime mascara for me. It looked very natural on and did not flake off.

Catrice Ultimate Stay Lip Liner

Catrice Ultimate Stay Lip Liner ($3.99 USD) — Perfectly outlined! The Catrice Ultimate Stay Lip Liner has an extremely long-lasting texture with high pigmentation. You can softly outline your lips with precision to prevent lipstick from feathering and bleeding. Not tested on animals.

What I think: This lip liner does not budge at all! I did one swipe on my hand first and touched it and it was not moving! Also it is nicely matte and would work under a lipstick or a gloss.

Catrice Ultimate Lip Glow Lip Colour Intensifier

Catrice Ultimate Lip Glow Lip Colour Intensifier ($5.99 USD) — Genius glow! The Catrice Ultimate Lip Glow not only moisturizes and protects your lips, it enhances your natural lip color to create your very own personal shade. Not tested on animals.

What I think: This is such an interesting product. It is a clear rosy color in the tube, but applies really naturally on. I though it was going to be glossy, but it is a soft lip tint with a little bit of glow to it. On me it’s very light, almost looks like applying cherry Chapstick. But may be brighter on others.

Catrice products are available at Ulta stores and http://www.ulta.com

My Beauty Favorites — Week of August 22-28, 2016

Since school has started for my kids, I find that I have a bit more time for relaxation.

This week I have been loving products that work well for a relaxing bath or hot shower. They include a mood setting candle, relaxing bubble bath, luxe shower gel with gold and shampoo and conditioner to thicken my hair:

C.O. Bigelow Musk Scented Candle ($42 USD) — Light the lead-free wick and the cult-classic fragrance of C.O. Bigelow Smooth Musk Perfume Oil permeates the air. This beloved fragrance opens with Iced Bergamot and evolves to a core of Ylang Ylang, Muguet Petals, and Patchouli, before finishing with dry notes of Vanilla Bean, White Cedar, and Pearlized Musk.

The candle was developed using a proprietary blend of waxes with lead-free wicks to ensure even melting. Specially crafted candle infused with the highest quality fragrance oils. Burns approximately 60 hours.

What I think: This is a sultry and soothing scent that reminds me of my teens and early 20’s. But it is way more modern than the classic musk scents. It’s so nice when taking a bath or just relaxing in the evening. It lasts a very long time, too!

Purchase at http://www.bigelowchemists.com

Soap & Paper Factory Lavender Bubble Bath ($32 USD) — This super luxe bubble bath is super skin softening and so bubbly!! The fragrances are so unique, each one possessing qualities to relax and nurture, while our deluxe packaging and attention to detail make the bubble baths a perfect gift! Paraben and Sulfate Free, of course! This scent has notes of Lavender, Bergamot & Clove.

What I think:

Available at http://www.soapandpaperfactory.com

Molton Brown Oudh Accord & Gold Body Wash ($33 USD) — A luxurious bath and shower gel with rich oudh accord and flakes of real gold.

Top note: spicy nutmeg oil.
Heart note: elemi oil.
Base note: rich oudh accord.
Extract: exquisite gold leaf.

What I think: Another sultry scent, this luxe body wash has little flakes of gold in it. The scent seems unisex to me, because it is a bit spicy. It lathers well and leaves skin soft. Great for the whole family!

Purchase at http://www.moltonbrown.com

Renpure Biotin & Collagen Shampoo and Conditioner

Renpure Biotin & Collagen Shampoo ($4.99, 16 oz) and Conditioner ($4.49, 16 oz) — Pump up the volume with the Biotin & Collagen hair care products! These formulas are meant to help deliver vital thickening and volumizing properties with our exclusive blend of Vitamin B7 Biotin, Collagen and Keratin that are known for being imperative to thicken, maintain and enhance your hairs volume, health, strength and shine!

What I think: I was happy to find that these products smell really nice as well as thicken my hair! The Biotin & Collagen really thicken my hair and the Keratin smoothes my frizzies!

Learn more at http://www.renpure.com and find a retailer near you.

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

Amazing New Skin Care From Yes To!

I received some wonderful new products from Yes To for my honest review. The products are from the Yes to Miracle Oil line, new single use masks and charcoal makeup wipes that are actually black!

Yes to Tomatoes Detoxifying Charcoal Facial Wipes ($5.99 USD) — Yes to charcoal and little black wipes that rid skin of nasty impurities. Formulated with charcoal to help remove dirt and impurities, the detoxifying formula is captured in a very sleek black wipe.

What I think: This is a pitch black wipe that has a bit of texture to it. When I remove my makeup, it feels refreshing and even has a little zing to it. It is hard to see the makeup on the wipe, to make sure I got it all. But I got used to it and now clean by sections.

Yes to Primrose Oil Wipes ($5.99 USD) — Yes To PrimRose Oil Wipes help to calm and soothe skin while cleansing, removing makeup, and moisturizing all-in-one!

Talk about a multi-tasker! Perfect for sensitive skin, these deep cleansing wipes help soothe skin and redness. The 2-in-1 cleansing & moisturizing facial wipes are lightly fragranced, leaving skin smelling ahh-mayzing.

What I think: These moisturizing wipes smell so good! They remove makeup and clean skin so well, but also hydrate at the same time. They don’t irritate my skin at all. I use them in the morning too, just to clean and refresh my face before applying makeup.

Yes To Argan Oil Mud Mask ($2.99 USD) — Yes to your glowing-self and brightening your day with Argan Oil to help condition and brighten skin.

Perfect for all skin types, the Yes To Argan Oil Mud Mask is super-rich and decadent, providing just the right amount of moisture. Lightly fragranced, the smooth Argan scent will transport you to Morocco while you sit back and enjoy a spa-like experience.

What I think: I have been using so many sheet masks lately that it was fun to try a new mud mask! This is a golden yellow color and went on really easily. I didn’t really detect a scent, but that’s okay. It felt really nice on. After 10 minutes I removed it with a wet cloth and my skin was hydrated, like after applying moisturizer! I used it on a weekend day and didn’t apply moisturizer or anything until evening. My skin stayed hydrated all day! LOVE!

Yes to also has so many other great mud and sheet masks for all skin types.

Yes To PrimRose Lip Oil ($4.99 USD) –a lightweight, yet luxurious lip treatment and gloss… all-in-one! Formulated with primrose oil to calm and soothe, the Yes To PrimRose Lip Oil has a hint of color that’s perfect alone or layered on top of lipstick.

What I think: I am loving the lip oil trend. I have been trying different ones, and I think this one is very good. It has a tapered applicator that easily applies the product. The oil has a bit of a rosy scent and color. It moisturizes well, but I do have to apply often. This also comes in Argan Lip Oil that has a golden color.

Have you tried any of these new Yes To products? Leave a comment and let me know what you think!

Prep Your Skin For Fall With Powerhouse Skin Care Part 2

Continuing on with my fall skin preparation, I have more amazing skin care to share with you!

There are so many amazing and different beauty products out there! Skin care can have so many steps these days, because you can add more and more. I would just stick to a few basics — cleanser, serum, moisturizer (w/SPF for day), night cream and eye cream. Then you can add a toner or essence, difference serums, peels, masks, neck products etc, if you’d like!

Below are some great choices of innovative skincare:

H2O+ Beauty Elements On the Move Cleansing Stick

H2O+ Beauty Infinity+ Refining Essence

H2O+ Beauty Waterbright Illuminating Serum

H2O+ Beauty Elements On the Move Cleansing Stick ($28 USD) — Infused with a touch of Pearl extract, this solid face cleansing stick glides directly across your face and foams up without you ever having to use your fingers. This innovative format means no more suitcase spills, messy applications, or getting stopped by TSA.

H2O+ Beauty Infinity+ Refining Essence ($44 USD) — This refreshing essence conquers dullness, dryness, and pesky pores. In a single swipe, it removes dull skin, reduces the appearance of pores, and hydrates skin. Features Red Algae extract and Camellia Japonica Oil it will quickly become a staple of your morning routine

H2O+ Beauty Waterbright Illuminating Serum ($56 USD) — Rich in Vitamin C, this serum is clinically proven to improve 7 different (amazing) aspects of skin tone*. Let us count the ways: Reduce the intensity of dark spots, Enhance radiance, Improve clarity, Even skin tone, Increase brightness, Enhance texture and Improve complexion health.

What I think: I love the cleansing stick, its so easy to use. I wet my face at night, rub the stick all over my face and then rinse off. Clean and soft! Plus, it’s portable.

The refining essence is a great product for on the go. It cleans and hydrates in one step and can be used morning and/or night either under a serum or moisturizer or on it’s own. It leaves skin glowing and soft! Add the illuminating serum over it, and skin is very smooth and glowy.

Available at /www.h2oplus.com

Mineral Fusion Makeup Removing Oil Cleanser

Mineral Fusion SPF 40 Moisturizer

Mineral Fusion Color Correcting Primer

Mineral Fusion Makeup Removing Oil Cleanser ($18.99 USD) — This gentle cleanser soothes as it cleanses leaving skin calm and comforted. Nutrient–replenishing Mineral Water and softening Argan Oil restore moisture for softer, supple skin and a more even complexion.

Mineral Fusion SPF 40 Moisturizer ($24.99 USD) — This ultimate age-defense cream provides broad spectrum mineral SPF to help prevent pre-mature sign of aging. Instantly protects skin from sunburn. Easily layer underneath foundation and primers for a healthy dose of SPF protection.

Mineral Fusion Color Correcting Primer ($28.99 USD) — Naturally camouflaging mineral pigments help conceal unwanted redness and hyperpigmentation revealing even, flawless-looking skin. This soothing formula fills in lines, evens tone, and smoothes texture creating a balanced canvas for makeup application.

What I think: Oil cleansers are such a gentle way to remove makeup and clean the skin. Argan oil is one of my favorite things, and I love that this leaves my skin soft, but not greasy. The SPF moisturizer is so light, but protects fiercely! Great under makeup.

The primer works well for those with lots of redness or dark spots. It helps correct the flaws and primes skin for foundation.

Purchase at http://www.mineralfusion.com

Prai Beauty AGELESS Throat Microdermabrasion Skin Resurfacer

Prai Beauty AGELESS Throat & Decolletage Creme

Prai Beauty AGELESS Eye D-Crease

Prai Beauty AGELESS Throat Microdermabrasion Skin Resurfacer ($25.95 USD) — This lightweight, easy-to-use formula exfoliates skin – transforming dry, sagging skin to a dewy, firm complexion. It’s the ultimate way to re-texturize and resurface your skin without visiting a derm!

Prai Beauty AGELESS Throat & Decolletage Crème ($34.95 USD 1.7 fl. oz) — This weightless créme developed specifically for the throat and décolletage helps to promote cell firmness and resiliency, while absorbing with minimal blending to avoid skin stretching. The number one selling formula is comprised of Sepilift DPHP™ to restore elasticity and support skin’s collagen. Shea butter, Hyaluronic Acid, Squalene and Glycerin keep skin supple and visibly reduce and correct the signs of aging.

Prai Beauty AGELESS Eye D-Crease ($32.95 USD) — This peptide enriched creme enhances the gentle skin around the eye area by smoothing and decreasing fine lines and crow’s feet. Fragrance and irritation free.

What I think: Two areas that I think really show one’s age are the eyes and the neck and throat. The microdermabrasion for the throat is a really unique product. It really smoothed my throat and left it so soft. Following up with the throat cream firms the skin and really makes it look younger!

I use the eye cream all around my eye to help with lines and texture. It is very hydrating without being greasy.

Available at http://www.praibeauty.com

Prep Your Skin For Fall With Powerhouse Skin Care Part 1

I haven’t been out in the sun too much this summer, but it doesn’t look it’s best right now. So, I am trying different skin care treatments and moisturizers to get my skin in shape for the cooler weather.

Aromatherapy Associates Revitalising Face Oil ($76 USD) — An effective blend of potent essential oils and natural plant extracts to restore vitality to dull skin. Frankincense, renowned for its rejuvenating and firming properties is combined with Borage and Rose to smooth your skin’s appearance and enhance radiance, for a healthy, glowing complexion.

What I think: My dull skin can sure use this hydrating face oil. I love using this at night and in the morning, my skin is soft and glowing. I love the natural oils and plant extracts. It is also a light oil, not greasy at all.

Available at http://www.aromatherapyassociates.com/usa

PCA Skin Purifying Mask

PCA Skin Intensive Clarity Treatment

PCA SKIN Purifying Mask ($56 USD) — An at-home clay-based treatment mask that exfoliates, detoxifies and removes impurities, leaving skin smooth, clear and bright.

A well-balanced botanical blend to promote a clear complexion
Clay-based mask that eliminates built-up impurities in pores
Micro-fine pumice to gently exfoliate built-up surface debris

PCA SKIN Intensive Clarity Treatment ($106 USD) — Vital for acneic skin, this salicylic acid formula includes retinol, niacinamide and hexylresorcinol to dramatically reduce and prevent breakouts, while ethyl linoleate, retinopeptide and lilac stem cell extract reduce sebum production and inflammation. With patented OmniSome delivery technology, the ingredients are delivered deeper into the skin for improved results.

What I think: I do still get breakouts (plus I have teenage daughters), so it is important to have quality clearing skin care on hand. Masks are popular now, as they should be, there’s one for each skin concern. This mask removes dirt and gunk in the skin and helps it stay clear. The clarity treatment is nice at night. Skin is much smoother and clearer in the morning!

Purchase at PCASKIN.com

Nassif MD Detox Pads

Nassif MD Hydro-Screen Hydrating Serum

Nassif MD Night Beauty Therapy Serum

Nassif MD Detox Pads ($45 USD) — Do you want maximum beauty with minimal effort? These exfoliating pads help cleanse, refresh and even the look of skin in just a couple swipes.

Nassif MD Hydro-Screen Hydrating Serum ($80 USD) — How advanced is your skincare routine? Up your beauty advantages with this serum that was formulated by top chemists to yield optimal results. Lightweight and moisturizing, it absorbs quickly to reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles and leave skin looking fresher and more youthful.

Nassif MD Night Beauty Therapy Serum ($75 USD) — If you’re a fan of beauty sleep, get ready to take it to the next level. This age-defying night serum addresses the look of dry skin, visible wrinkles, uneven skin tone and lack of firmness to deliver a more youthful appearance. Its concentrated formula gently delivers retinol to skin and leaves it looking smoother and firmer. Get the more beautiful skin you’ve been dreaming of — and all while enjoying those

What I think: I am always a fan of a good exfoliating pad. I use the Detox pads after I clean my face, they get any left behind dirt in my pores and leave my skin smooth and clear.

The hydrating serum is good for the day because it is so light. Since it does sink in so quickly, it works well under my day moisturizer, or CC cream. The night serum has retinol and smoothes the skin overnight and it’s much smoother by morning.

Purchase at http://www.hsn.com

My Beauty Favorites — Week of August 15-21, 2016

I have been sick this week with a fever and cold. I am starting to feel better, but it is a slow process!

But, new beauty products always help! I have received the following products for my honest review. They include soothing bath products, natural eyebrow and eyelash growth supplements and a natural foot cream.

Body Wash Bubble Bath in Sea Lily Jasmine

Body Crème in Grapefruit Bergamot

Sugar Scrub in Sea Lily Jasmine

Mayfair Soap Foundry Body Wash Bubble Bath in Sea Lily Jasmine ($8.99 USD) — Cleanse the day and start renewed. This creamy, pearlescent formula gently cleanses while leaving skin soft and lightly scented. It can also be used to create a sumptuous bubble bath for extra pampering. This sweet floral aroma delights senses with a fusion of White Lily, Jasmine, Rose, and a touch of soft, sweet berries for an unforgettably sumptuous fragrance.

Mayfair Soap Foundry Body Crème in Grapefruit Bergamot ($8.99 USD) — Rich and luxurious, Mayfair Soap Foundry Body Crème drenches skin in sumptuous moisture. The highly nourishing blend of Shea Butter, Cocoa Seed Butter, Safflower Oil, and Sunflower Oil provides deep hydration to the skin and melts effortlessly on the body. The bright and citrusy essence of Grapefruit and Bergamot is perfectly balanced with notes of Magnolia and Carnation to create a beautifully uplifting and rejuvenating fragrance.

Mayfair Soap Foundry Sugar Scrub in Sea Lily Jasmine ($8.99 USD) — Reveal brilliantly glowing, revitalized, and restored skin with this gentle body sugar scrub. Natural pumice and sugar crystals work together to delicately exfoliate rough, dry skin. This sweet floral aroma delights senses with a fusion of White Lily, Jasmine, Rose, and a touch of soft, sweet berries for an unforgettably sumptuous fragrance.

What I think: I love treating myself in the shower and bath, especially while I’m sick! Plus, I have two daughters at home and they use it all, too. These products are affordable and smell so nice! Plus, they can be repurchased easily, so if you have a daughter (like me) who uses a third a bottle of bubble bath, it’s nice that they are luxurious and affordable.

Purchase at Target stores and http://www.target.com

Talika Lipocils Extra For Eyelashes

Talika Eyebrow Lipocils Expert Supplement

Talika Eyelash Lipocils Expert Supplement ($57 USD)New and improved formula made from a blend of natural actives to regrow sparse lashes, grow and thicken existing ones, magnify natural colour & curl your lashes. Today and since 60 years the only product on the market to be able to claim and prove the eyelashes growth up to 2.5 mm in 28 days. With a new double applicator combining a mascara brush & sponge tip applicator all in one. Whether you feel your lashes look too short, sparse, brittle or lack shine and curl, or if you just dream of longer, shinier, sexier looking lashes.

Talika Eyebrow Lipocils Expert Supplement ($57 USD) — Enriched with naturally sourced active ingredients including 13 Plant Extracts, Eyebrow Lipocils Expert stimulates natural brow growth and boosts melanin production and the natural eyebrow pigment. Developed to create up to 75% fuller brows, Eyebrow Lipocils Expert offers renewed results in as little as 6 weeks and is perfect for brows which have been traumatized by sun exposure and over plucking. Boasting visible results after the first use, Eyebrow Lipocils Expert leaves the brows looking naturally thicker and more structured.

What I think: As we (I) age, much of my hair gets thinner, including lashes and brows. Talika creates natural lash and brow growth products. They are easy to use, just brush the product on with the spoolie applicator. In about six weeks, lashes and brows get longer and thicker.

Purchase at http://www.talika.com

L’Occitane Shea Butter Foot Cream ($28 USD) — A must for sandal weather, this powerful moisturizer contains purifying lavender essential oil, soothing peppermint extract & anti-inflammatory-rich arnica extract to keep feet looking & feeling fab. Also available in a TSA-friendly 30ml tube ($12) for easy travel!

What I think: This wonderful foot cream smells and feels amazing on the feet! It smoothes and softens my feet, and make them look so much better!

Available at http://www.usa.loccitane.com

Keep Summer Going With Fresh Beauty Products!

My kids are back in school. but it is still summer! Even though it is cooling down a bit, it is still warm and sunny out (when we’re not getting summer storms!)

I’m squeezing every last minute of summer out with the following gorgeous products. My faves include an eyeshadow palette that will work for summer and fall, everyday self-tanner moisturizer, a sunny fragrance, tropical shampoo and conditioner:

CARGO The Land Down Under Eye Shadow Palette ($34 USD) — This season, Cargo Cosmetics is taking you on a vacation to Sydney, Australia through The Land Down Under Eye Shadow Palette. Inspired by the sand, water, and foliage of Sydney, Australia, this 12 shadow palette is accompanied by a dual-ended brush eye pencil and features warm, matte neutrals, shimmery bronzes, rose golds and cool toned shades in ocean-hued blues and a bright foliage green. Like all Cargo Cosmetics’ palettes, shades are laid out in 3 quads and 6 duos perfectly coordinated for easy to achieve day and night looks.

What I think: These eyeshadows are gorgeous! They are very well pigmented and there is a range of shimmers and mattes, which I love. My favorites include Domain, a stunning green, Bridge, a sparkly bronze and Koala, the perfect matte tan! I will be wearing this for the rest of the year (and into the next).

The palette is available at CargoCosmetics.com, Ulta.com, select Kohl’s Departments Stores and Kohls.com/Beauty.

Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer ($8.99 USD) — Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer is infused with a botanical blend of antioxidants and Vitamin E to help keep skin healthy-looking and nourished. The formula delivers the optimal amount of naturally-looking, glowing color to enrich the appearance of skin over time. The formula, with Erythrulose and DHA provides gradual color development over the course of a week to create a natural-looking summer glow.

Jergens® Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer is part of the newly reformulated Jergens®Natural Glow collection, featuring revolutionary odor-reducing technology, designed so that you don’t experience that smell that typically comes with applying a color enhancing formula. The innovative, exclusive technology effectively neutralizes malodor for the ultimate glow experience.

What I think: This is one of my favorite self tanners. I use it everyday because it’s such a nice moisturizer. Plus, the more I use it, the more I glow! It has a nice scent, too. Great for going into fall when I’m not ready to lose my tan.

Purchase at grocery, mass retailers and drugstores nationwide

FLOWER Sunshine Fragrance ($19.97 USD) — New for summer, Drew Barrymore introduces Sunshine to her FLOWER Beauty fragrance collection. The fresh, energetic scent is designed for the optimistic, hopeful and sunny girl – always dressed with a smile. With floral and citrus notes, the new fragrance features bright yellow packaging, reflective of sunshine-filled, happy days.

TOP NOTES: Italian Lemon, Lady Apple, White Freesia
MID NOTES: Yellow Peony, Pear Blossom, Jasmine Sambac
BASE NOTES: Sweet Cassia, Clean Musks, Yellow Amber

What I think: This is a lovely, fresh scent. It is so soft and perfect for everyday wear. It is bright with the citrus and a bit sultry with the musks and amber. And it is so affordable!

Available at Walmart or Walmart.com

Garnier Whole Blends Hydrating Conditioner with Coconut Water & Vanilla Milk Extracts

Garnier Whole Blends Hydrating Shampoo with Coconut Water & Vanilla Milk Extracts

Garnier Whole Blends Hydrating Shampoo & Conditioner with Coconut Water & Vanilla Milk Extracts ($4.49 each) — Their moisturizing yet refreshingly lightweight formula blooms with a tropical fragrance of coconut water & vanilla milk, bringing to life their wholesome care that quenches and softens de-hydrated hair. Massage into wet hair, lather and rinse thoroughly. Follow with their Hydrating conditioner. For extra care, indulge in their Hydrating mask treatment.

What I think: First of all, the fragrance of this is so amazing, it’s a warm coconut and vanilla scent. So tropical! I love how hydrating this is, plus I love that it is made with natural ingredients. Perfect for washing every day!

Available at mass retailers nationwide or garnierusa.com

Color Your Hair Your Perfect Shade With Madison Reed

Madison Reed

The Madison Reed Color Kit ($24.95 USD) — Long-lasting, luxurious, color that looks and feels healthy. 100% gray coverage. Free from: PPD, phthalates, ammonia, resorcinol, parabens & gluten. Nutrient-rich with keratin, argan oil, and ginseng root. Thick cream color that smells great, no drips, no mess. Expert colorists available for free consultations. You do a quiz on the website to find your best color match. The kit includes:

Customized Instructions -All the information you need in 10 steps or less. Our color crew is on call by phone, email, or chat if you have questions or need expert advice along the way.

Barrier Cream – Keeps your ears, forehead, and neck color-free.

Cleansing Wipe – An easy way to clean up any unwanted color.

Radiant Cream Color – Rich with nutrients like argan oil, keratin, and ginseng root to strengthen and protect hair while delivering radiant, multi-dimensional color. Free from ammonia, resorcinol, PPD, parabens, and gluten.

Conditioning Color Activator – Formulated for longer-lasting color and easy application. The bottle comes with a screw off cap and tip to make mixing and applying color simple and tidy.

Protective Cap – Keeps your color in place until you are ready to rinse.

Gloves – Two pairs of gloves. One pair to apply color and another fresh pair for when you are ready to rinse it out.

Color Enhancing Shampoo and Conditioner – Rich with nutrients and free from sulfates, parabens, and gluten, our shampoo and conditioner locks in your color and creates long-lasting shine

What I think: This is such a luxurious kit! You open it up and all of the products are nestled inside. Purchasing a drugstore kit does not get you the barrier cream, wipe, cap and two pairs of gloves! And I use all of those things. After coloring, my skin has not been stained and I am good to go!

The color itself has a very light odor, which is good. It is easy to mix and apply. The color I received for review was Bolzano Brown – 4NMG. Dark mahogany brown with hints of gold. It was pretty, but I didn’t really see mahogany or gold, just a deep, dark brown. And it lasted a few weeks, but I can see the gray at my temples again. I left it on for a little longer than it suggested, too because my gray are stubborn.

I think this is a very nice kit, if a little spendy. Maybe it’s best for those who do not need to cover a lot of gray.

Purchase at http://www.madison-reed.com. Have you tried Madison Reed products? Leave a comment and let me know!

Summer Fun and Grandparent’s Day Gift Ideas From GourmetGiftBaskets.com

I love giving gifts that are curated nicely and include a variety of goodies. I think that they are so thoughtful!

Gourmetgiftbaskets.com puts together gifts for every occasion and just because gifts for the special people in your life.

I was sent the following products for my honest review:

Arts & Crafts Care Package ($39.99 USD) — The arts and crafts care package will keep your creative kid entertained and enthralled! There is something for every hour of the day in this ideal care package designed to provide quiet and engaging activities alone or to share with friends. Included This care package will be a welcome surprise for the artsy child in your life! It can be a camp care package, but I think that it is just as fun for back to school or the holidays. Includes:

· Fine Point Washable Markers – 12 Piece Set – 12 colored markers that will brighten any day. · Scribble Pad of Paper – 60 Sheets – 9″ x 12″ – A blank canvas waiting for doodles and drawings. · Pencil – This bendable pencil not only gets the trick done when it comes to writing, but it is also a toy at the same time.
· Pencil Sharpener – You’ll find this essential item in any good care package for campers! · Make Your Own Sticker Kit – Their amazing art work can be stuck on anything they choose with this easy to use kit. · Lanyard Set – A colorful array of lanyards with which to weave and make fun jewelry. · Swirl Art – Create your very own marbled paper with this travel size toy. · Spiral Art – Create crazy shapes in all different sizes and colors with the spiral graph art kit. · Scratch-a-Sketch – Although it appears to be black, scratch away at the surface and expose beautiful colors underneath. · Magic Foam – Wet the pieces of foam and then craft away. Once dry, it will stay in the position you created. · Design-A-Mug Velvet – 3 Designs – This mug has three different velvet scenes that you can color in with markers to create your preferred landscape as you drink your beverage. · Neon Scribble Slate – This colorful scribble pad makes writing that much more fun.
· Fuzzy Face Pocket Travel – Use the magnetic wand to make a funny face, shake to clear it and start again.

This has been fun for my whole family. The also have more crafty baskets on the website.

Summer Seasonal Beer Bucket ($69.99 USD) — The Summer Seasonal Beer Bucket is crammed with the best microbrews of the season! Bursting with light, fruity flavors, these highly anticipated beers are the cream of the crop. We’ve designed our beer basket for beer lovers from all walks of life. The one thing they have in common is their desire to enjoy all the good things the warm weather brings. We’ve paired these beers with our hand-selected, premium snacks. Each snack delivers a crunch that highlights the nuanced flavors of the beers. Included:

Fresh Slice White IPA by Otter Creek Brewing – This light IPA combines the delicate flavor of the hops with hints of spice, clementines, and Bavarian yeast. Summer Session Ale by Peak Organic Brewery – This citrusy, eco-friendly ale uses locally sourced wheat. Lemongrass Luau by Kona Brewing Company – This beer brewed with lemongrass transports anyone to the tropical Hawaiian Islands. Summertime Kölsch by Goose Island Beer Co. – This golden Kölsch reminds us of rich caramel, pine, and hints of sweet citrus. Curious Traveler Lemon Shandy by The Traveler Beer Co. – This shandy mixes lemonade with a premium beer, just like they do in Germany. Summerhook by Redhook Brewery – Bursting with hearty rye flavors this beer is a summertime must-have! Hickory Maple Bacon Kettle Corn by KingOfPOP.com – 1.8 oz. – Bacon makes everything better – and our popcorn is no exception! Peppered Beef Jerky by Divine Bovine – 2 oz. – Wash this peppery beef jerky down with a few swallows of your favorite summer beer. Chichester Snack Mix by Merrimack Valley Snack Company – 2 oz. – This delicious snack mix features crunchy cheese crackers, crispy pretzels, and salty nuts. Roasted & Salted Peanuts by J&R Gourmet – 2 oz. – Roasted and salted peanuts are a classic complement to any beer! Honey Mustard Popcorn by KingOfPOP.com – 1.1 oz. – Sharp mustard is sweetened with honey to make this crispy popcorn flavor.

This is an amazing gift (or get it for yourself). I have been enjoying a new beer each night and they are all amazing! The snacks are yummy, too!

Grandparents Day Gift Basket($69.99 USD) — Special people deserve special gifts! That’s why, for Grandparents Day this year, we created this gorgeous arrangement that’s full of irresistible gourmet foods. Inside a classic picnic basket is an artful arrangement of fresh orchard fruits, classic Vermont cheddar cheese, and chocolate covered treats, creating a thoughtful gift that’s perfect for showing your grandparent just how much they mean to you! Included:

Fresh Orchard Fruits
· Hors D’oeuvre Deli Style Crackers by Partners – 4.9 oz.
· Classic Vermont Sharp Cheddar Cheese by Cabot – 8 oz.
· Fuji Apple Crunch Dried Fruit by Sensible Foods – 12 g
· Garlic Summer Sausage by Nueske – 10 oz.
· Chichester Snack Mix by Merrimack Valley Snack Company – 2 oz.
· Roasted and Salted Peanuts by J&R Gourmet – 2 oz.
· Pretzel Twists by Auntie Trudie’s – 3 oz.
· (5) Assorted Hard Candies by Hillside Candy

Grandparents Day is September 11th. This wonderful assortment of goodies is perfect for any grandparent or special person in your life! It is really fun to receive such a thoughtful and tasty gift. The basket is so cute, too. Their is also a grandparents gift set with wine on the site, look it up!

I have to say that my family enjoyed all of these gift baskets. And, there are so much more on their site, http://www.gourmetgiftbaskets.com. Check them out!