Ipsy Glam Bag Ultimate Review — October 2019

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Hey all!  It’s time for my October Ipsy Glam Bag Ultimate review! Here’s some info on the new subscription:

  • Glam Bag Ultimate is a new subscription with 8 full-sized & 4 deluxe samples, personalized for you, for $50/month. You’ll get to choose one of your full-size products with the new choice feature!
  • There will be a makeup bag, every month.
  • You can now add up to 5 Add-Ons for your bag. Previously you were limited to 3.

This subscription is $50 a month.

I have pretty much enjoyed Ipsy Glam Bag Plus, so I wanted to get this new subscription a try.

Here’s what I received for September:

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Here’s close up looks at the products:

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I chose the Green Clean this month.  I haven’t used it before, but I am looking forward to trying it out.

The Biorace serum looks interesting.  I can always use hydration.  I will be trying this out when I’m out of my current hydrating serums.

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The Cela creme contains “A potent blend of Canadian botanicals—blueberry, elderberry, evening primrose, juniper berry, rosemary, and lavender—team up to deeply hydrate your skin.”  I will be keeping this and trying it out in the winter, when my skin needs more hydration.  It’s supposed to work well before makeup.

I’m not really interested in the Eggplant mask or Unicorn Glow primer, so I’ll save those to give as holiday gifts.

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The Saem is a Korean skincare brand.  I will probably save these to give as stocking stuffers. I may try one out.  Not too exciting.

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These F.A.R.A.H brushes look nice, but I don’t really need face brushes right now.  I will probably give them away.

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Neither of these are very exciting to me (the theme of the box, LOL.  These will probably be stocking stuffers.

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I haven’t tried anything from Makeup Geek before, so I am going to test this out. It has a pink duochrome flip, so it’s probably not an everyday highlight for me. It might be nice for Halloween or just dressing up.

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This is a pretty blush trio.  I don’t really need it and think this will make a nice gift for someone.

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Besides the Farmacy Green Clean, this is the other product I was excited about.  It’s very pretty and perfect for fall.  I have a few of these Huda Obsessions palettes and really enjoy them! It will go well with my Smoky Obsessions palette that’s in my October Shop My Stash.


So, I was very excited to try the Ipsy Glam Bag Ultimate out, but I’ll only use a few of the 12 products I received.  For $50, I don’t think it was a great deal.  I’m not sure I will continue this subscription.  You would think that for their first box, it would be amazing.

Did you try Ipsy Glam Bag Ultimate this month?  What do you think?  Did you get different products than I did?

Nourishing Beauty Products For Face, Hair and Body!

Hi all! I hope you’re having an amazing weekend!

I’m back with a review of some products I’m loving this fall.  These products are so nourishing for face, hair and body.  I received these for my honest review:

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Crepe Erase Hydrating Body Toning Mist in Citrus ($25 (USD) — Formulated with water-binding trehalose, as well as their exclusive TruFirm Complex, this light mist acts like a magnet for moisture, making it a perfect layering essence that preps skin for and amplifies the results of their Advanced Body Repair Treatment. I think this smell so nice and feels really hydrating on the skin.  This is so nice for colder weather.  It locks moisture in. Purchase at Ulta.com

Sky Organics Organic Rosewater Facial Mist ($14.95 USD) — Made with 100% pure Rosewater steam distilled from Lebanese roses.Full of natural anti-inflammatory properties, Rosewater instantly soothes redness and balances skin’s pH, all while providing lightweight hydration to soften, moisturize, and balance skin. I like using this as a hydrating toner and as a makeup setting spray.  This can also be used to soothe scalp dryness.  I just tried it and it did help my dry scalp!  Very cool.

Sky Organics Organic Castor Oil 16 oz ($15.95 USD) — The Organic Castor Oil is cold-pressed from ethically sourced Castor Seeds from Kerala, India. Naturally high in Ricinoleic acid, Castor Oil is known for its ability to fortify and restore dry, damaged or thinning hair, and promote hair growth. Its anti-inflammatory properties and fatty acid content help nourish and treat the scalp to promote growth and strengthen hair at the root.  This is a nice scalp treatment as well and can also be used to naturally lengthen and thicken eyelashes and brows!

Both products can be purchased at  skyorganics.com

Dr. Natural Pure-castile Liquid Soap ($10.86 USD) – Eucalyptus 32 Oz — Dr. Natural is a multi-purpose, pure Castile liquid soap, made from coconut and olive oils, shea butter and other high-quality ingredients to effectively cleanse while keeping skin moisturized for total body care. With no animal ingredients, artificial colors, parabens or sulfates, it can be used for multi-purposes such as a body wash, hand soap, shampoo, facial cleanser, shaving and bath soak. All items are made in the USA. Made with Organic Shea Butter. Sulfate Free, Paraben Free, Dye Free, Cruelty Free, No artificial colors. 

This is a very nice soap and it comes in other scents as well — Almond, Lavender and Peppermint.

Available at Amazon.com


What new beauty products are you loving this fall?

 

Shop My Stash — October 2019

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Hi all!  It’s  time for my October Shop My Stash! I am looking forward to cooler weather and Halloween!

I’m always excited to play with new (again to me) color cosmetics that I either haven’t used in a while or haven’t used much at all! My goal is to get more use out of the products I have and to see if they are something I want to keep.

This month I have chosen products that will scream fall to me!  The eye shadows I chose are dramatic and smokey and are perfect for this time of year.  I think the rest of the products will compliment them well.

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Natasha Denona Sunrise Eyeshadow Palette — I purchased this as a birthday gift for myself in June. I think this will be so pretty for fall (and Halloween)! The shimmers in this are stunning and the mattes are s pigmented!  I haven’t used it a lot, so I’m looking forward to playing with it!

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I purchased this Huda Beauty Smokey Obsessions palette s an add on in my March 2019 Ipsy Glam Bag Plus.  I’ve swatched it, but I haven’t used it yet.  I am going to try it out this month.  It’s so pretty that I think I’ll love it!

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I’ve had both of these products in my collection for a couple of years and haven’t used them for a bit.  They are the Laura Geller Baked Blush and Brighten in Cherry Truffle and the Essence Pure Nude Highlighter.  I am going to test these out to see if I still like them (and if they’re still good and not too old)!

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These are the only two Colourpop bullet lipsticks I own. The left one is Hey Mr. DJ (soft petal pink), a Blur Lux Lipstick and Appy (warm pinky beige), a Creme Lux Lipstick.  I’ve only worn them each a few times and I want to test them out more to see if I like the formula.


I’m excited to gets some use out of these products this month.  Do you do a Shop your Stash? What are you including this month?

 

Shop My Stash September 2019 Results and Monthly Empties

Hi All!  I’m back with my September Shop My Stash results!  I enjoy dipping into my collection and using products I haven’t used in a long time, or just haven’t given much of a chance.

My rule with this is if I don’t like the item after the month, I will move it out of my collection to make some room and let someone else enjoy it! You can check out my first Shop My Stash post for September.

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I enjoyed most of these products.  The Jane Iredale face makeup kit and the IT Cosmetics Hello Cheekbones bronzer and highlighter are both really nice!  I used both of them a few times each week. The bronzer is very warm, but it worked well as I was losing my summer tan.

The PUR lip gloss is so pretty.  It’s hydrating and not sticky.  And I love the shade, Focused.  It looks nice on it’s own, over a lip liner and over a lipstick.  Also, it lights up and there’s a mirror on the side.

The only item I will probably let go of is the MGS Accessories Matte Liquid Lipstick in Posh.  It’s very drying.  I’ve never really been a fan of liquid lipsticks, but I keep trying!

Here’s photos with the eyeshadow palettes open:

 

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The Urban Decay Naked Reloaded is my most used item this month.  I really enjoyed using this palette.  I’m pretty sure I tried almost every shade in the palette.  It’s so nice for everyday wear.  You can also make a more dramatic look for evening.    The mattes are really easy to blend and the shimmers are gorgeous!

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This is also and Urban Decay palette and the formula is just as beautiful as the Naked Reloaded. It’s the  Urban Decay On The Run Mini Palette in Shortcut. I have made soft pink looks and dramatic, sparkly looks with this.  I will be keeping both palettes.

Now on to my empties:

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I have a few empties to share this month.  I used up a few body creams that I have been working on over the summer. I loved the Body Shop Banana scent, but the gel texture of the Body Yogurt is not my favorite.  I would purchase this scent in the Body Cream. I would repurchase both Sol de Janeiro creams.  They are so silky and both smell amazing!

I enjoyed all three serums I used up.  I am working on other serums, so I probably won’t buy a new one for a while.

I also like the Koh Gen Doh wipes and may purchase them in the future. I like the Urban Decay Troublemaker mascara just fine, but I have ton’s of mascara to try out.


Stay tuned for October Shop My Stash — I’m hoping for cooler weather soon!

 

September 2019 Beauty Favorites

Hi all!  It’s almost October, which means it’s time for my September favorites!

Below are my beauty faves for September. As usual, If I have reviewed them before, I will include the link, if not, I will link to where you can purchase:

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My favorites this month include a good mix of makeup and skincare, plus a hair care item!

I’ve been trying out loads of new skincare the last few months and love to spotlight my favorites each month.  Plus, a few of these favorites are from subscription boxes.

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I received the Glow Recipe Pineapple-C Bright Serum in my BoxyLuxe for September. I use it every morning after cleansing and toning.It really brightens my skin!

The Primera Alpine Berry Water Cream is so hydrating. 

The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion has made such a difference in my fine lines.

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I purchased the Smashbox Primerizer during the spring Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty. I didn’t want to wear it in the summer heat and humidity, but now that it’s cooler, I’m really enjoying this.  It smooths and hydrates the skin.  Perfect before foundation to create a moisturized base.

I also got the MAC Prep + Prime Fix+ Scents in Creamy Coconut in the Ulta’s Spring 21 Days. I only have about a third of this left.  I like the soft coconut set and it performs just like the original spray.

The IGK Hair Mistress Hydrating Balm was also included in my September BoxyLuxe.  This is a gorgeous balm that works to smooth damp or dry hair. I use this every day to tame my frizzies.

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The Wander Beauty Frame Your Face brow pencil was in my September Ipsy Glam Bag Plus. The shade is Dark Brown and it works well for me.  The pencil is a bit of a dry formula and takes a little pressure to use, but I like the effect I get with it.

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This pretty face palette is the Ofra x Madison Miller Miller Squad Midi Palette. I also received this in September Ipsy Glam Bag Plus. The blush is really nice for fall and I enjoy the highlighters, although they are very similar to each other.

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I’ve had the Sigma Beauty Enchanted Eyeshadow Palette for a couple of months.  I’ve posted about it on my Instagram (fortyflirtyfab), but I haven’t reviewed it here yet. I do plan on reviewing it soon.  It is unfortunately sold out on the Sigma Beauty website, but I have found it on Amazon here.

This is a stunning palette!  You can create ethereal or even very dramatic looks with it.  The shadows blend nicely.  Some of the shimmers need to be built up, but that’s fine with me.

———————————————————————————————————————————That’s my September favorites.  Bring on October! What have you been loving this month?

 

 

 

FRÉ Body Care Review

Hi all!  I hope your weekend is going well! I’m back with an amazing body care line.

FRÉ BODY is the first comprehensive skincare set for your body, specially formulated for active skin. If you are an athlete or just active, you need a tailor-made solution to protect your skin from the daily combination of sweat, sun, and environmental aggression.

Even though summer’s over, I’ve started working out again, and it’s still pretty warm in Kansas City.  It’s so important to take care of all skin, and keep it glowing and protected.

Here’s the products I received:

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Protect Body Defense Moisturizer with SPF30 ($40 USD) — This unique moisturizer gives skin deep hydration, keeping it soft and preventing sweat-induced breakouts. It is also formulated to shield skin from immediate and long-term effects of the sun’s UVA, UVB, and IRA rays. The combination of Argania Active Complex©and Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice also rejuvenates aged tissues and has anti-inflammatory effects on skin.

Glow Body Nourishing Dry Oil ($45 USD) — Give your skin an extra nourishing boost post-shower, with GLOW BODY. It is infused with antioxidants, which help to improve skin’s elasticity and suppleness. It deeply hydrates skin, replenishing any moisture that is lost during workouts. GLOW BODY reduces wrinkles, giving skin the smooth, soft feel it deserves. Finally, it is formulated to add luster to the skin, giving a more youthful appearance and a healthy and natural glow.

Purify Body Clarifying Body Cleanser ($35 USD) — Deep, gentle exfoliation with Argania Active Complex©Say goodbye to post-sweat body acne and breakouts, with PURIFY BODY. This mild, clarifying cleanser helps to remove the oils, toxins, and sweat that builds up in your skin during workouts. It is formulated to remove any layers of dry, damaged or flaking skin while keeping your pores clear and improving blood circulation.

What I think:  I really enjoy all of these products.  The scent is fresh and herbal. I love taking a shower or bath after a workout and using the cleanser.  It’s a mild scrub that really cleans the dirt and sweat and leaves skin soft!  The oil is so hydrating!  It skins right into the skin, but leaves a subtle glow.  And I love that the lotion has SPF in it.  It hydrates and protects at the same time.

You can purchase all three products separately or in a bundle here.

Have you tried these products or anything by FRE skincare?

 

 

Skincare Sunday — Derma E Acne Treatment Collection

Hi all! I’m back already with my next Skincare Sunday!  I have been sent Acne treatment products from Derma E for my honest review.

I love Derma E.  Their products are all natural and they believe that skin health can be visibly improved through the right combination of potent vitamins, wholesome nutrients and exceptional ingredients.

For these products, the power of Salicylic Acid is enhanced with their signature Anti-Blemish Complex, which is comprised of Tea Tree Oil, Willow Bark Extract, Lavender and Chamomile. This unique blend of plant-based ingredients doesn’t just help unclog pores—it also soothes and balances skin for a remarkably clearer complexion.

The products I received are:

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Acne Deep Pore Cleansing Wash ($15.50 USD) — A daily cleanser that removes built-up oil and debris to help unclog pores, promote clear skin and prevent breakouts.

Acne Rebalancing Cream ($19.50 USD) — A skin-balancing formula that provides essential nutrients to help clear and prevent breakouts, reducing redness and irritation.

Acne Blemish Control Treatment Serum ($16.99 USD) — This acne blemish treatment serum helps to fight against blackheads, breakouts and cystic acne.

What I think:  I do get breakouts from time to time, and these products really help, especially during the humid summer months when I have more oil products on my face.  The was is so refreshing and it cleans the skin without drying it out.  The cream is nice to use in the morning or evening, it helps control oil and prevents breakouts. The serum does, too.  It’s light, but helps with acne.

I really recommend these products if you are fighting acne.  They are affordable, as well.

You can purchase Derma E products at Ulta or dermae.com.

 

 

Morgan Taylor’s Forever Marilyn Polish Collection

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I’m so excited to review the Morgan Taylor Lacquer Forever Marilyn fall collection.  I love the quality of Morgan Taylor polishes, and I think these are perfect for the season.

“There is no fashion or beauty icon that is more well-known than Marilyn Monroe,” says Danny Haile, CEO and Founder of Morgan Taylor Lacquer. “We are thrilled that we have the opportunity to release a brand new collection with six shades all inspired by Marilyn. Her timeless glamour and unapologetic attitude fit well with the energy of Morgan Taylor. Forever Marilyn includes:

  • Some Girls Prefer Pearls – White Shimmer
  • All American Beauty – Sheer Soft Nude
  • A Girl and Her Curls – Eggplant Shimmer
  • That’s So Monroe – Cool Brown Shimmer
  • Flirty and Fabulous – Teal Crème
  • Classic Red Lips – Tomato Red Crème

 

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I love these shades!  I especially need to wear Flirty and Fabulous! LOL!  It just needs a Forty and it would be me! I am wearing A Girl and Her Curls on my toes right now and it’s really rich and pretty.

The collection is available now for a limited time at Ulta.com ($9.50) and SallyBeauty.com ($9.50). Are you thinking of picking some of these up?

 

Ipsy Glam Bag Plus Review — September 2019

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Hey all!  It’s time for my September Ipsy Glam Bag Plus review! This is a subscription box that will always include 5 full-sized items. And the items included are mostly luxe or higher end items. This is such a great value for the high quality items included.

I have pretty much enjoyed this subscription. I have been debating keeping it because a lot of times. Unless I get tired of it, I think I’ll keep it until at least the end of the year.

Here’s what I received for September:

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This is what I received in my main box:

Total — $138.  Pretty good for spending $25.  Last month my value was over $200, though…but I guess each month it varies.

I’m excited to try the Ciate powder.  I’m saving until I am out of my current powders.  I also am so happy about the Wander Beauty brow pencil because it’s in my shade!

I have tried the I Dew Care mask, but I don’t think I need a full sized one.

I also added on three products — the Too Faced Damn Girl Mascara mini, Ofra Cosmetics MADISON MILLER Smiley for Riley Lip Gloss, and a full sized Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara.  I added on a mini of the Thrive mascara last month and LOVE it!  So when I saw that the full size was available this month, I had to get it!

Here’s close ups of the palettes I received:

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I do follow You Tuber Madison Miller, and I’m happy to have received this from her collab with Ofra.  This is really pretty.  I love the blush, but wonder if the highlighters will be too dark for my fair skin tone.  I’m going to try it and see.  Here’s swatches:

IMG-1540.JPG     The highlighter on the left may work.  If not, they will make pretty eye shadows.

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This is a really cool palette, but I don’t know if I will keep it.  It’s mostly shimmers, and I like a few more mattes in my palettes.  I will either give this as a Christmas gift or a part of my next Instagram giveaway.

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I think this is a pretty good month. I’ll use the face palette, the powder and the eyebrow pencil.  I will probably give the mask and palette away.  I am really happy with my add-ons. Next month, I’ll be trying Ipsy’s new subscription, Glam Bag Ultimate instead of Glam Bag Plus, so stay tuned for that review!

Do you get Ipsy Glam Bag Plus?  What did you get in your box this month? Are you going to try the Ultimate next month?

 

 

Skincare Sunday — Philosophy Ultimate Miracle Worker Fix Facial Serum Roller

Hi all!  I hope you are having an amazing weekend! I’m back with a new Skincare Sunday.  It’s been at least a few weeks since I’ve done one.

This week, I’m reviewing a new skincare product from Philosophy.  It’s the Ultimate Miracle Worker Fix Facial Serum Roller.  Here’s a photo of the product and info from Philosophy’s website:

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“Don’t let gravity bring you down—get lifted with our ultimate face serum roller! Our next-generation face serum roller helps you see more sculpted-looking facial contours* while the stainless steel applicator adds a smooth, cooling touch. our exclusive “lift-fix “complex, which contains a combination of patented bi-retinoid (hpr+), a triple blend of peptides, kigelia africana fruit extract, edelweiss extract and soy extract, helps visually lift the look of skin, and smooth the look of wrinkles.*

The results are in:*

  • in just 10 days skin looks lifted and firmer
  • in 3 weeks chin and neck look tighter
  • laugh lines appear reduced
  • over time facial contours appear more sculpted and toned

*Based on an 8-week consumer test with 115 women aged 45-65″

What I think:  This is such a cool product, especially for those (me) who are aging and need a little firming up.  It’s very easy to apply, just turn the roller so the arrow matches with “on”.  Then you can squeeze out the product and apply it with the roller over areas of your face and neck that you would like to firm.

Because of the cooling applicator, this feels really nice to apply. I use it day and night.  I have noticed some firming on my neck and chin.  That’s wear I mostly need it.

I am really enjoying this product and the results I’m getting from it.  I will continue using it and hope to see more firming!