Forty, Flirty & Fabulous

My Beauty Faves Week of March 30-April 5, 2015 Part 2

Happy Easter! I hope you all had a wonderful day with family and friends!

This is part 2 of my weekly favorite products review. You can read part 1 here. I have been testing and loving so many great products this week that I had to add a second post!

I have been loving a gentle shampoo, fresh bath and body products, a renewing skincare collection, and great new brow products!

Philip B. Lavender Hair and Body Shampoo ($30 USD, 7.4 fl. oz) — Gentle, sulfate-free cleanser protects and preserves hair color, while your skin soaks up moisture and softness. Mild blend of botanical cleansers creates a dense, luxurious lather—gentle enough for the whole family. Exclusive L-Amino Acid complex strengthens hair and magnifies shine, for healthy, gleaming color and soft, glowing skin. Pure Lavender Oil light, fresh, naturally calming scent. Paraben & sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) free; color & keratin- treatment safe.

What I think: This is a mild, soothing shampoo that is good for all the hair in my family, from my 11-year-old daughter’s long hair to my aging 40+ hair! And it leaves it soft and doesn’t strip it. It also works well as a body wash.

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

RITUALS Wu Wei Calming Cream Bath

RITUALS Mei Dao Rich Nourishing Body Cream

Freshly scented and richly moisturized RITUALS bath and body works will pamper skin this spring!

Wu Wei Calming Cream Bath ($19 USD) — Experience a sense of ultimate relaxation in this soft, fluffy foaming cream bath. Your skin will feel nourished and silky soft. Enriched with calming White Lotus and Green Tea, the symbols of purity and spiritual growth.

Mei Dao Rich Nourishing Body Cream ($29 USD) –Rich, creamy moisturizer for nourishing the skin. Leaves the skin feeling silky soft. Combines the gentle fragrance of White Lotus with the nourishing properties of Yi Yi Ren, traditionally used in Chinese medicine.

What I think: Both of these products smell amazing! So fresh, I love the scent of white lotus. The cream bath gives lots of foamy bubbles and is really fun to use and I like to use the body cream after my bath because it locks in the moisture.

Learn more and purchase at http://www.us.rituals.com.

Burt’s Bees Renewal Collection — Wrinkle-smoothing White Hibiscus and intensively hydrating Apple take center stage in our Hibiscus and Apple Rejuvenating Complex. In our Renewal Face Care line, this remarkable interaction plumps up cells to help reduce the look of lines and wrinkles, improve firmness, and make skin appear smoother and more hydrated.

· Renewal Refining Cleanser ($9.99)

· Renewal Intensive Firming Serum ($19.99)

· Renewal Firming Day Lotion with SPF 30 ($19.99)

· Renewal Firming Night Cream ($19.99)

· Renewal Smoothing Eye Cream ($19.99)

What I think: I have been testing the cleanser. It is a gentle way to clean the face morning or night and I don’t have to worry about my skin drying out when I use it. I love that it has natural ingredients and is so good for my skin.

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

BRETT BROW Duo-Shade Brow Powder

BRETT BROW Dual-Sided Eyebrow Brush

BRETT BROW Duo–Shade Brow Powder in Dark Brunette ($18 USD) — Can be used dry or with a damp brush to create a perfectly blended brow shade for maximum definition.

BRETT BROW Dual–Sided Eyebrow Brush ($18 USD) — Part angled brush to fill in sparse brows and part blending spoolie to feather brows, creating the ultimate brow tool.

What I think: I was happy to receive these new products for review. I found that the brow powder was the perfect color for me and covered really well. The angled side of the brush laid the pigment down very well and the spoolie blended the product perfectly!

These will be available at Sephora stores in April 2015.

Do you know of any great new products I should review or ones that you are loving now? Leave a comment and let me know!

My Beauty Faves Week of March 30-April 5, 2015 Part 1

Spring sure is here now — and Easter is tomorrow! We have been having alternating rainy and sunny days. It is crazy, but it is Spring in Kansas City!

This week I am loving a hydrating hair mask, fragrant body wash, affordable moisturizer, fun spring scents and spring green makeup.

Aviva Keratin Renewal Masque ($39.95 USD, 7 oz) — Lost that lustrous feeling? Everyone’s hair can use a boost from time to time. Infused with keratin and essential nutrients, this reconstructive hair masque repairs damage and restores elasticity while protecting from the drying effects of UV rays. Aviva’s lightweight formula will leave hair noticeably more hydrated and healthy looking with a smooth and shiny finishSuitable for all hair types. Color and heat safe and it’s a UV Protectant, Paraben-free, Sodium Chloride-free

What I think: This is a perfect product to make hair very soft! My hair is dry after the cold winter and the masque helped hydrate and restore it. I think it will also be good on frizzy hair that I get during the humid summer. I like that it has natural ingredients, too!

Available at http://www.avivahair.com

Caress Forever Collection Body Wash — The Caress Forever Collection is the world’s first body wash with Fragrance Touch Technology. The breakthrough technology of Caress Fragrance Release Pearls™ releases bursts of perfume with every touch of your skin. The collection combines sensual floral notes to create a fine fragrance for up to 12 hours. The body wash comes in two fragrances, Love Forever and Adore Forever.

Love Forever

Top Note: Mandarin Orange and Peach Heart Note: Scarlet Red Rose, Peony and Freesia Base Note: Sandalwood and Vanilla Musk

Adore Forever

Top Note: Raspberry and Cassis Heart Note: Angel Face Rose and Muguet Base Note: Amber, Honey and Vanilla

What I think: Both scents of these are so nice! I think that Love Forever is a little sweeter and Adore Forever is a little sexier. The only thing is that I don’t really smell the fragrance on my skin very long after my shower. Other than that, this is a fragrant body wash and it leaves my skin soft and moisturized!

Purchase at mass market retailers near you.

NO-AD

NO-AD Skin Care Prevent and Brighten — Body Lotion ($5.99 USD) and Lotion Spray ($6.99 USD)

Vitamin B3 (niacinamide) brightens, boosts hydration to reduce redness, minimizes dark spots, increases production of ceramides and fatty acids – key components of skin’s protective barrier
Vitamin C fights free radicals, helps smooth and firm skin
Vitamin E eases dryness, bolsters skin’s UV defense
Argan Oil helps diminish appearance of age spots; brightens
Sunflower Oil is a source of Vitamin E

NO-AD Skin Care Prevent and Repair – ($5.99 USD) and Lotion Spray ($6.99 USD)

Purified Watermelon extract with origins from the Kalahari Desert. Protects against inflammation/ irritation, providing a more even skin texture.
Aloe Vera acts as an anti-inflammatory
Vitamin A simulates cell growth for smoother skin
Vitamin B6 protects against free radicals
Vitamin C fights free radicals, helps smooth and firm skin
Vitamin D exerts protective, rejuvenating effect
Vitamin E eases dryness, bolsters skin’s UV defense

Fights free radicals, helps prevent and repair cell damage, helps reduce inflamation, boosts collagen production, gives skin firmness and strength while improving its natural barrier function.

What I think: Both of these lotions are extremely moisturizing without being greasy. My favorite is the spray lotion. You spray it on and then smooth it into the skin. It leaves my skin so soft. Plus, it is so affordable for such a quality product!

Available at select Wal-Mart stores, walmart.com, drugstore.com, as well as food, drug, and mass market retailers.

Body Fantasies Signature Japanese Cherry Blossom Fragrance Body Spray

Body Fantasies Signature Fragrance Body Spray ($6.99 USD) — Flirty, feminine, floral or fruity – Body Fantasies line of Signature Fragrance Body Sprays has a scent for everyone this spring. All under $10, these delightful fragrances are great for day time, date night, a quick-pick-me-up, and are even great to stow in your gym bag for a quick post-workout spritz. Please see below for more information on scent offerings.

The scents I have tried are Japanese Cherry Blossom, Sweet Berry Fantasy, Vanilla, Pink Sweet Pea and Twilight Mist.

What I think: These are so much fun to spritz on! They are fun scents that can be layered together. I like combining a sultry scent like the Vanilla or Twilight Mist with The Sweet Berry Fantasy or Pink Sweet Pea.

Available at WalMart and drugstores near you.

VMV Hypoallergenics Two True Hues in Shaken & Stirred

Maybelline New York Eye Studio Color Tattoo 24HR Cream Gel Shadow in Edgy Emerald

Rouge Bunny Rouge Feline Gaze Eye Kohl in Selene

As it is finally getting green in Kansas City, I am loving green hues for eye makeup:

Add a pop of color to lids with VMV Hypoallergenics Two True Hues in Shaken & Stirred ($40 USD). Infused with virgin coconut oil, these gorgeous green shades provide superior hydration to lids with serious staying power. Available at vmvhypoallergenics.com.

Transform eyes with Maybelline New York Eye Studio Color Tattoo 24HR Cream Gel Shadow in Edgy Emerald ($7.99 USD). This long-lasting, creaseless cream-gel shadow will stay on all day. Smooth onto lids for an instant dramatic eye that everyone will notice. Purchase at mass market retailers.

Line lids with Rouge Bunny Rouge Feline Gaze Eye Kohl in Selene ($25 USD) for a smoldering eye look with intense color. This creamy pencil liner glides smoothly over the lids and leaves a luxurious satin finish. Available at RougeBunnyRouge.com.

What I think: All three of these products stay on all day. If you just want a pop of green, the eyeliner is perfect. Or go for drama with one of the eye shadows!

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

Happy Easter!

Spring Beauty Products For a Fresh New Look

Since it’s officially spring, have you changed your makeup look at all? I have been trying lots of new products for a healthy, shimmery and colorful spring look.

Below are some of my favorite new makeup items and tools to create the perfect warm-weather look:

VITA LIBERATA Trystal Minerals ($45 USD) — This revolutionary self-tanner offers pure mineral coverage, instant bronzing, and a lasting tan. The natural bronzed effect suits all skintones and can be used to contour or provide all over glow. The tan deepens over a four-to-eight hour period and lasts up to five days.

What I think: This is so cool! It is a combination tanner and bronzer, so I put it on in the morning to tan my face and it stays on for days. It is also fun to use as a contour and stays even after I take my makeup off! A little goes a long way. A perfect Spring/Summer multi-tasker.

Available at http://www.vitaliberatausa.com and http://www.sephora.com

jane iredale’s Spring 2015 collection Country Weekend — a relaxed, alluring collection inspired by the landscapes and experience of a peaceful country getaway. Featuring a self-adjusting peach stain for cheeks and lips, a metallic espresso eyeliner and eye shadow shades of pearl, pink, copper, sparkling charcoal and pale green. Like all jane iredale products, this collection uses only pure, clean ingredients that improve the health of the skin. The products are:

Getaway Eye Shadow Kit ($58 USD) — Inspired by fresh air and starry nights, this versatile palette features 5 wearable shades ranging from soft to dramatic, all set in a lightweight compact.

Jelly Jar Gel Eyeliner in Espresso ($28 USD) — Soft and creamy; glides on smoothly for a defined or smudgeable line, then sets to stay just where you want it. This gel eyeliner is highly pigmented and provides inky, saturated color. Water resistant and long-lasting.

Just Kissed Lip and Cheek Stain in Forever Peach ($25 USD) — Multipurpose lip and cheek stain uses all natural ingredients to enhance your natural coloring. Non-drying, long-lasting, all natural stain adjusts to your own chemistry for an irresistible peach shade that will flatter your skin’s undertone.

What I think: The eye shadow palette is gorgeous! Beautiful shimmery shadows can go from day to night! And I really love the lip and cheek stain, it is a really soft color but very long lasting. I haven’t tried the gel eyeliner, but I am always looking for a rich, dark brown liner and this looks perfect!

Purchase at http://www.janeiredale.com

Xtreme Lashes GlideLiner Long Lasting Eye Pencils ($29 USD) — The silky-smooth gel formula glides on gently and easily, allowing you to achieve an ultra pigmented, precise, and perfectly defined eye. Available in 12 gorgeous colors.

What I think: This are fabulous! They combine the ease of a pencil with the smoothness of gel liner pots. And they are so well-pigmented and richly colored. Glide them on and they stay all day!

Available at http://www.xtremelashes.com

Physicians Formula’s Organic Wear Jumbo Lash Mascara ($9.95 USD) — Achieve fluttery, look-at-me-lashes with a truly outstanding “green” mascara. Made with 100% natural origin ingredients, this mascara features volumizing technology to dramatically maximize and intensify lash volume for a natural eye-opening effect.

What I think: This comes with a very large brush that takes a bit to get used to, but when you do, it will give thick and very long lashes! I also love that the ingredients are natural.

Purchase at fine drugstores and mass-market nationwide.

Belle Enchanted Eyes Brush Set (3-Piece)

Aurora Fairy Sponges 3-Piece

It’s always fun to try new make-up tools! I love trying new brands and types of brushes. The tools below are from London SOHO New York. They bring the royal treatment to Walgreens with their new line of makeup brushes and sponges featuring 5 classic Disney princess characters: Ariel, Belle, Jasmine, Aurora and Snow White. This Disney Princess collection for women includes face brushes, eye brushes, and beauty sponges with charm and style, fit for any princess. The two sets I’ve tried are:

Belle Enchanted Eyes Brush Set 2-Piece ($12.99 USD) Medium Fluff Brush – Short round shape creates depth and detail. Large Fluff Brush – Soft, fluffy bristles allow shadow to glide across eyelids with ease. Flat Angled Liner Brush– Angled shape creates flawless lines and can be used with powder, gel or cream liner.

Aurora Fairy Sponges 3-Piece ($12.99 USD) Blue Fairy Sponge – Egg shaped dome gradually builds coverage where needed. Green Fairy Sponge – Wide base covers large areas such as the cheekbone, forehead and neck. Pink Fairy Sponge – Pointed tip is perfect for under eyes and in corners.

What I think: Both of these sets are a fun and affordable way to apply makeup. The sponges have a foam/rubber texture, but they apply primer, foundation, cream blushes and bronzers really well. The eye brushes are soft and fluffy, plus they pick up pigment well. And the yellow rose handles are so pretty!

Available at http://www.walgreens.com

IT Cosmetics CC Your Way To Radiant Skin! QVC Today’s Special Value For March 27, 2015

Yay! Another IT Cosmetics QVC Today’s Special Value! This is always a great way to try IT’s newest products for a great deal. This set is a five-piece collection that gives you coverage and luminosity, beautiful color and brightness, and true complexion perfection! It is a $172 value selling on March 27, 2015 for $59.96!

This collection includes:

1.08-fl oz CC+ Cream Illumination in Fair, Light, Medium, Tan, or Rich
0.78-oz Vitality Face Disc
0.10-oz Eye Shadow Trio in Pretty In Spring including Fresh, a cream shade; Blissful, pale rose shade; and Serene, a rich toffee shade
Heavenly Luxe Radiance Wand Brush
Heavenly Luxe No Tug Dual Eye Shadow Brush

Here is a description of the products from the QVC website:

CC+ Cream Illumination is your complete skin care, sun protection, and full coverage–now with a subtle touch of luminosity and radiance.

Vitality Face Disc is a trio of anti-aging powders: Anti-Aging Matte Bronzer, Hello Light Luminizer, and Vitality Brightening Blush Stain in Love, a sheer universal peachy pink shade.

Heavenly Luxe Radiance Wand Brush contours, highlights, and brushes your way to complexion perfection.

Pretty in Spring Eye Shadow Trio includes anti-aging shadows while the Heavenly Luxe No Tug Dual Eye Shadow Brush blends color on your delicate eyelids without tugging.

You can order this today only for $59.96 by watching QVC and calling in, or on http://www.qvc.com

Are you going to pick this up today? Have you tried IT Cosmetics before? What do you think? Leave a comment and let me know. I would love to hear from you!

My Beauty Faves Week of March 16-22, 2015

It’s spring! It has been beautiful in Kansas City. Well, sunny and warm, but we are still waiting for rain to turn the brown grass green. It’s been such a dry winter for us.

I am still inspired to change-up my beauty routine for the new season. I’m loving a luxe new skincare potion, a multi-tasking tinted moisturizer, a fresh fragrance, pretty and affordable spring makeup and a fruity lip balm duo!

PHYTO-C SIGNATURE ($240 USD) — This is an anti-aging, anti-wrinkle product that works well for all types of skin. Stimulates cell–cell interactions, and accelerates cell renewal. Helps to preserve cellular energy, assists the formulation of collagen and strengthens in structural proteins. Combats fine lines, wrinkles and skin imperfections. Regenerates skin’s ability to retain moisture, enhances skin elasticity, tightens and firms skin. Brightens and improves skin tone and enhances skin smoothness and radiance. Active Ingredients are IMPA™ Complex, Aleosin, Mandelic Acid, and Vitamin B12. Apply twice daily.

What I think: The texture of this is lightweight and feels almost like a smoothing primer. I have been using it under my moisturizer like a serum at night, and over my SPF day moisturizer. It makes my skin silky and smooth.

Available at http://www.myphyto-c.us

glō therapeutics Moisturizing Tint SPF 30+ ($38) provides broad spectrum UVA & UVB protection with Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide while Sodium Hyaluronate attracts and maintains hydration, holding 1,000 times its weight in water. Designed to feel like second skin, this lightweight tinted physical sunscreen goes on smooth and even for flawless all-day coverage and a natural looking, healthy glow.

What I think: For days that I am in a hurry, I love that this product gives moisture, SPF and covers, too! It has a nice medium coverage and is buildable.

Available at www.gloprofessional.com

GUESS Dare Limited Edition ($52.0050ML, $40.00 30ML) — Give yourself a sexy scent this spring with a fragrance that will steal your man’s heart – GUESS Dare Limited Edition. Floral, fruity and woody, this scent will leave you feeling desirable and sexy with an aroma that captivates every room.This tempting scent opens with juicy grapefruit and crunchy lady apple. Middle notes of pink jasmine and pear blossom balance out the bottom woody notes of sheer cedarwood, white musk and a touch of vanilla.

What I think: This is a light, fruity scent that is perfect for spring.

Available at http://www.guess.com

Essence cosmetics is excited to launch a bright, new variety of products to kick off a fresh start to spring! Whether you’re giving your lashes the royal treatment with new mascara, perfecting an easy day-to-night smokey eye or testing new shades of classic favorites, the essence cosmetics new collection includes over 30 new products to amp up your beauty routine this spring and summer.

The new products in the above photo left to right are:

Lash Princess Volume Mascara ($4.99 USD) — presented in a fantastical evening gown design and has a unique wand applicator designed for extra control to reach every lash. The prestige inspired cobra brush is specially shaped to lift, separate, and cover each individual lash for the most majestic volume.

Longlasting Lipstick ($2.99 USD) — Longlasting love! This rich and creamy lasting lipstick is moisturizing with intense color that lasts for hours. Available in 13 beautiful, cream and matte shades.

3D Eyeshadow ($3.49 USD) — 3D eyeshadows provide a smoother and silkier texture that is easy to blend. The new color-duos range from neutrals to jewel tones with high pigmentation. Apply with a damp brush for more intensity and maximum impact. Available in 6 irresistible shade duos in satin, metallic, and shimmering finishes. Available in 8 irresistible shade duos in satin, metallic, and shimmering finishes.

Available at Ulta, Shoppers Drug Mart and Fred Meyer

Spring Limited Edition Softlips Cube 2-pack ($6.49 USD) — The 2-pack features the popular Pomegranate Blueberry flavor and a brand new, limited edition flavor Peach Mango. As always, Softlips Cube delivers five lip-loving benefits with Lip Perfecting Technology to hydrate, replenish, smooth, protect with SPF 15 and add a shine to your lips.

What I think: I have tried this in the Fresh Mint flavor before and really liked the application and minty flavor. I was so happy to try these flavors, especially the new Peach Mango. It’s very yummy and reminds me of summer (yay)! The Pomegranate Blueberry is also very seasonal and they both moisturize well and are easy to apply.

Available at a mass market retailer near you.

What new products are you loving this spring? Leave a comment and let me know.

Korres Natural Hair Collection on HSN Today

Korres Aloe and Dittany Duo

Korres Almond and Linseed Duo

Sunflower and Moutain Tea

Today, a new natural hair care collection from KORRES, is launching HSN and http://www.hsn.com.

KORRES formulated this new line of all-natural shampoos, conditioners and masks with organic ingredients and plant extracts like dittany, marjoram and mountain tea, which are only found on the Greek island of Crete.

The hair care collection is 100% free of silicones, parabens, alcohol and propylene glycol.

Each shampoo and conditioner duo shown in the above photos is on sale at HSN for $29.95 today, or three payments of $9.98. The regular price of these duos are $34.95. The choices are:

KORRES Shampoo & Conditioner Duo – Aloe & Dittany — Love your locks with this duo that provides gentle, mild cleansing and lightweight moisture to hair. Naturally-derived extracts from the isle of Crete and B vitamins make this the perfect pair for daily use and a look that’s lustrous. Included is the 8.45 fl. oz. Aloe & Dittany Shampoo and the 6.76 fl. oz. Aloe & Dittany Conditioner.

KORRES Shampoo & Conditioner Duo – Sunflower & Mountain Tea — Give your hair the love it deserves with this ultra-moisturizing combo. Naturally-derived ingredients from the isle of Crete cleanse and condition color and chemically treated hair, helping prevent fading and breakage for a healthier, more luscious look. Included is the 8.45 fl. oz. Sunflower & Mountain Tea Shampoo and the 6.76 fl. oz. Sunflower & Mountain Tea Conditioner.

KORRES Shampoo & Conditioner Duo – Almond & Linseed — Love your locks with this duo that helps moisturize and rejuvenate the look of dry and damaged hair. Naturally-derived extracts from the isle of Crete and B vitamins help make this the perfect pair for daily use and a look that’s shiny, healthier and more lustrous. Included is the 8.45 fl. oz. Almond & Linseed Shampoo and the 6.76 fl. oz. Almond & Linseed Conditioner.

I haven’t tried these yet, but I do love Korres’ products. They are all natural and work so well. Their greek yoghurt skincare and lip butters are some of my all time favorite products.

Have you tried KORRES hair products? Please leave a comment if you have or if you are going to purchase the great deal on HSN today.

Enjoy!

ULTA Beauty’s 21 Days of Beauty Spring 2015

It’s time for Ulta’s 21 Day of Beauty! Now throughout the rest of the month of March to April 4^th, ULTA Beauty will be offering beauty steals, free gifts and exciting events from some of our favorite brands, including Bareminerals, Tarte, Clarisonic and Benefit!

Today’s deal is Exuviance Performance Peel AP25 is half off today, $37.50 instead of $75. What a great deal! The Exuviance Performance Peel AP 25 contains 12 peels (a 6 week supply), which can be used up to twice a week on face, backs of hands, neck, chest and body.

Tomorrow, March 19th deal is butter LONDON nail lacquers and treatments are all $9 ($15-$19) value. Love butter LONDON! Their nail polishes are fantastic!

Visit www.ULTA.com for further information and to take part in their exclusive beauty deals and steals to get gorgeously glam for Spring!!

As Winter Winds Down, Take Care of Your Skin For Spring!

I am so glad that the weather has been nicer in Kansas City! My skin is still a bit dry, but I will probably need to use lighter moisturizers…eventually.

As the cold weather winds down and we see the sun, our skin is going to go through different challenges to stay smooth and clear, but we still need to take care of it.

Below are moisturizers and an exfoliator that is helping my skin stay smooth and hydrated.

Christie Brinkley Authentic Skincare Recapture 360 Night Anti-Aging Night Treatment ($69 USD) — This anti-aging night cream repairs sun damage and addresses the effects of aging. Product features:

Works with the skin’s circadian cycle to revitalize the skin.
Reduces wrinkles while improving firmness, smoothness and elasticity.
Increases cellular energy for a rejuvenated appearance.
Infused with a bio-copper complex for anti-aging benefits.
100% vegan
Fragrance-free

What I think: This cream is so gentle on my skin (which my sensitive skin needs), and it so hydrating! I love that it’s not greasy and in the morning, my skin is so smooth!

Available at http://www.kohls.com

Avon ANEW Clinical Overnight Hydration Mask ($30 USD 1.7 oz on Sale for $24.99 USD) — Unique gel formula deeply replenishes lost moisture and replumps the look of skin. Ultra-lightweight gel formulated with encapsulated hyaluronic acid & shea butter beads. Use at nighttime, 3X a week over your favorite night cream and leave on overnight. In the morning your skin looks dramatically hydrated…and visibly younger! Won’t stain your pillow. Fragrance-free, Paraben-free, oil-free and suitable for sensitive skin.

What I think: This is such a cool product. It has a gel-texture and goes on lightly, but it is so hydrating. I suggest that if you need lots of moisture, use it over your night time moisturizer. If you only need a little moisture, apply instead on if. I have tried it both ways, and I wake up with dewy skin!

Purchase at http://www.avon.com

AMBI EVEN & CLEAR Exfoliating Wash

AMBI EVEN & CLEAR Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30

AMBI Fade Cream

STEP 1: CLEANSE — Cleansing is not only recommended as the first step in your beauty routine, it’s essential. Begin your beauty regimen with AMBI® EVEN & CLEAR® Exfoliating Wash ($6.99 USD, 5 oz.) to effectively clear skin and prevent breakouts, while helping maintain an even complexion. This creamy exfoliating wash contains 0.5% salicylic acid to help improve the look of skin by eliminating dead skin cells, leaving it smoother and more radiant.

STEP 2: MOISTURIZE — Moisture is key to helping maintain the skin barrier and in preventing skin from becoming dry and flaky. After cleansing, moisturize with the AMBI® EVEN & CLEAR® Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30 ($12.49 USD 3 oz.). It’s advanced, oil-free formula is hypoallergenic and gentle enough for sensitive skin. It won’t clog pores or leave skin looking shiny. This “multi-tasking” moisturizer evens out complexion to reduce the appearance of discoloration and provide protection from the sun.

STEP 3: TREAT — Apply AMBI® Fade Cream to treat uneven skin tone and dark marks ($6.49 USD 2 oz.). This unique treatment was developed and designed with skin of color in mind. The active ingredient, hydroquinone, has been shown to decrease the overproduction of melanin and when applied regularly it delivers visible results.

What I think — I have been using the wash and moisturizer for a few weeks and love how they clean, moisturize and protect my skin. The wash helps my enlarged pores and the moisturizer hydrates without being heavy. I haven’t tried the fade cream yet, but if I get sun spots this summer, I will.

Available at http://www.shopambi.com

I am loving all of these products! What are you using for skincare? Any amazing products I should check out? Leave a comment and let me know!

My Beauty Faves Week of March 9-15, 2015

It has been so warm, dry and wonderful in Kansas City this week! I have been wearing short sleeves and really need to paint my toenails! But it is going to turn cold and rainy by the end of the week, boo!

So, I am trying to get my skin and hair ready for the spring, along with finding a new fragrance and foundation/skincare.

This week I have been loving a new unisex fragrance, a skincare foundation, a clarifying body cream and color-saving hair products!

EAU DE GAGA by Lady Gaga ($34 for 1.7 fl. oz.)– EAU DE GAGA is Lady Gaga’s first unisex fragrance. It is built around a beautiful heart of white violet, an intoxicating flower that fuses female and male attractions. The scent opens with an invigorating burst of sparkling lime to counterbalance the woody-floral intensity, and evolves into a sensual trail based on leather.

What I think: I really like this unisex scent. I think it is perfect for women who like a woodsier scent and it would smell great on any man. Plus, it’s a fun thought to be able to share your fragrance with your guy!

Available at mass market retailers.

Algenist Repairing Tint & Radiance Moisturizer SPF 30 ($42 USD) — Algenist’s Repairing Tint & Radiance Moisturizer SPF 30 combines key microalgae ingredients to deliver great professional color and biotechnology skincare. Made for all skin types, this lightweight formula provides extraordinary skincare results as it reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, refines skin texture while smoothing and visibly restoring skin’s elasticity and suppleness. Algenist creates a bridge between color and skincare by carefully selecting ingredients that work together to provide sheer to medium coverage to visibly even out skin tone and blur imperfections instantly. Fine lines and wrinkles appear reduced and SPF 30 helps protects the skin from sun damage.

What I think: I’ve never tried a product like this. It applies kind of like a CC cream as it has a thick texture and gives a medium coverage, but it is buildable for heavier coverage. But, the cool thing about this cream is after a few days of use my skin looked so good! The redness and enlarged pores I have been dealing with have been greatly improved.

Available at Algenist.com, QVC, QVC.com, Sephora, Sephora.com, Ulta and Ulta.com

VMV Hypoallergenics Illuminants + Face-Hand-Body Lotion ($75 USD 6.3 fl. oz) — Has 2 tyrosinase inhibitors, 3 reparative antioxidants, therapy-enhancing + skin-renewing microdermabrasion. Helps clarify dark spots + patches, and clarifies dark spots/patches from aging, sun/light damage, melasma, photoallergies, inflammations (rashes, acne, insect bites) + other hyperpigmentations.

Gentle enough for use as an interim facial moisturizer when slowly increasing application frequency of Illuminants+ Creams. Restored, notably more radiant, tone-balanced skin from head to toe. Gives body skin a vibrant, even-toned glow. Brightens skin beautifully. Results in clearer, tone-balanced skin that looks younger, notably more vibrant + radiant due to lighter, healthier cells.

What I think: I have been using this on my legs and arms to get them ready for spring and summer. My skintone looks even after use and it smooth and glowy!

Available at www.vmvhypoallergenics.com

Damage Remedy Daily Hair Repair

Brilliant Spray On Shine

Color Conserve Daily Color Protect

Aveda Damage Remedy Daily Hair Repair ($29 3.4 fl. oz) — This daily leave-in treatment instantly repairs damaged hair, helps protect from heat styling and detangles to help prevent further damage.

Aveda Brilliant Spray On Shine ($28 3.4 fl. oz.) — Provides a sheer mist of pure shine and vitamin E to finished hair styles. Also helps eliminate flyaways. For all hair types.

Aveda Color Conserve Daily Color Protect ($24 3.4 fl. oz) — This 93% naturally derived leave-in treatment triple-protects your hair color with the powerfully effective,botanically-based color conserve complex.

What I think — all three of these products smell amazing! Both of the leave-ins are moisturizing without weighing my hair down. And I am loving the spray on shine! A little gives a nice sheen to the hair!

Available at http://www.aveda.com

Spring Ahead With Fresh Beauty Ideas

Did you spring ahead this week? The weekend seemed to go by so fast, but it was nice that it was lighter longer. It was 70 degrees today and I loved it! So looking forward to spring and summer this year!

Below are some fun picks for hair care, sun care and makeup to help you spring ahead in style!

Streekers

Scunci Hair Chalk

Brighten up your hair this spring with fun temporary colors! Two I have recently tried are:

STREEKERS ($11.95 USD) is true temporary hair color with a difference. Instant. Liquid. Washes out when you want it out. Not a mascara, not a crayon, not a paint. But a cool new hair color that uses innovative technology. In 8 vibrant colors: pink, blue, ultra violet, red, green, yellow, orange, purple. Available at http://www.colormetrics.com

Scunci Hair Chalk ($11.99) — So easy to use! Just glide color onto hair. Works like a straightener. Comes with two different colors in pack. Available at mass market retailers near you!

Change colors in seconds
Works on all hair types
Non-permanent

Protect your face and lips!

Sun Bum Day Tripper ($24.99 USD) — Premium travel-sized sun care essentials for those lazy days in the sun. Benefits Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Protection Hypoallergenic Paraben / PABA Free Gluten Free / 100% Vegan Anti Aging Won’t Clog Pores Oil Free

Includes:

SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion / 3.0 OZ SPF 30 Sunscreen Lip Balm / 0.15 OZ Cool Down Aloe Lotion / 3.0 OZ

Available at: http://shop.trustthebum.com/daytripper/

Hard Candy Glow All the Way Ombre Blush

Hard Candy Face and Body Luminizer

Hard Candy Plumping Serum

Soft and shimmering makeup is perfect right now! It will definitely help chase the winter away.

Hard Candy Glow All The Way Ombre Blush ($7 USD) — Add warmth and luminosity to your cheeks with Hard Candy Baked Blush. It will give your complexion a soft glow. I like that it applies softly, but can be build to a brighter flush!

Hard Candy Face & Body Luminizer, Doll Face Pink ($8 USD) — Get glowing and show off your glamorous side, using Hard Candy Luminizer, Doll Face Pink. This luxurious body and face luminizer illuminates all skin tones with a pearlescent glow. Shimmery and pigmented, the Glow All The Way Hard Candy Luminizer gives your skin lasting, radiant shine. A little goes a long way to give your face a glow and can also be used on the shoulders and décolleté for a fun evening look!

The Hard Candy Plumping Serum Volumizing Lip Gloss ($6 USD) — will give a glamorous appearance to your lips, creating the most desired pouting look. The lip plumper lip gloss features an attractive shimmer that will automatically make your lips look fuller. The lip gloss is ideally suited for those who like sheer colors. I don’t see a lot of plumping with this, but it does give shimmer and shine and has a nice minty taste to it.

Available at Walmart stores and http://www.walmart.com

SwimSpray

Arganesse

Don’t forget to take care of your hair on this spring!

SwimSpray ($15 for 4 oz) –SwimSpray uses a patent-pending vitamin C technology to immediately neutralize the chlorine on your body – eliminating the residual chlorine that can damage and irritate your hair and skin. It removes the chlorine from your hair and skin in a safe, gentle, and all-natural way.SwimSpray leaves your hair soft and moisturized and maintains hair color andkeeps your skin from drying out and becoming itchy or irritated. It is 100% natural, fragrance-free, sulfate-free, and free from artificial colors. Available at http://www.swimspray.com

Arganesse ($96 for 3.4 oz) For centuries, argan oil has been used to protect hair and skin from harsh desert conditions. High in vitamin E and essential fatty acids, argan oil alone naturally hydrates for silky, shiny, frizzfree hair. Arganesse controls the frizz, repairs, and rehydrates while adding shine and eliminating oiliness. Arganesse obtains this by blending argan oil with the perfect combination of complementary ingredients resulting in a winning secret formula. When applied to hair, this incredible elixir gives a lustrous gleam to dull, lifeless locks. Works on all hair types. Purchase at http://www.arganesse.com

Are you trying new products this spring? Please leave a comment and let me know!