Saturday, July 12, 2014

Evening Routine - Cleanse


Below you will find my current cleansing routine.  I say current because I change my routine up with the seasons.  The cleansing steps to my "Summer Routine" in the evening:

25 ct. package $5.99 at Ulta (The link above will bring you right to the Ulta website where you can currently buy 1 packet of wipes and get the 2nd packet 50% off.)
I use these wipes almost exclusively to get my mascara and any eyeliner off before I cleanse my face.  I don't use these across my entire face.  Each wipe works well to break-up the day's mascara, yet gentle enough that I never experience any burning or irritation. These wipes are also great to throw in your bag to freshen-up when you're away from home.

3.5 fl. oz. $22.40 for Julep Mavens
$28.00 for non-Julep Mavens
The lightweight formula of this oil is perfect for the summer.  The product performs well at breaking down my face make-up at the end of the day.  After I rinse the oil off my face feels well cleansed and slightly hydrated.   I use 4-5 pumps to get a good layer worked into my skin. 

Step 3 (2-3 times/week) - Mia Clarisonic
$99.00 (Tip - If you register your Clarisonic on the Clarisonic website you will receive a coupon code to use at their store ~ Expires 3 months after registration.)
I did go through the "purge" phase as most people do when they start using the Clarisonic.  I was using the Clarisonic every day, but I recently decided to start using it 2-3 times a week in an effort to be a little more gentle with my skin.  I use the sensitive brush head which I do believe is gentler on my skin that other brush head options.  The Mia leaves my skin exceptionally clean leaving an almost detoxifying feeling.  I use the Clarisonic all over my face for the prescribed times (by Clarisonic) on each section of my face. 

What is your cleansing routine?  How often does your routine change? 


Friday, June 27, 2014

Sample Review ~ Naked Ultra Nourishing Lipgloss in Lovechild


Claims from the Urban Decay Website ~

~ creamy texture

Yes, the texture of this lipgloss is incredibly creamy.  The texture lends itself to a smooth, even application.  This is not, I repeat, not a sticky, tacky gloss AT ALL.

~ gorgeous, high-gloss finish

Yes and no... The finish is gorgeous and made my lips have a healthy glow.  I wouldn't say that the finish is "high-gloss."  I found the finish to be more of a healthy sheen.  I consider Buxom Full-On Lip Polish to be "high-gloss," and in comparison Naked doesn't come close. 

~ you’ll want to keep applying it all day—even when you don’t need to

After 2 hours of wear, I checked out the longevity of the gloss and found that it was still visible on my lips, however the feeling of hydration had started to fade.  I reapplied, and as Urban Decay suggests, I didn't mind at all because this gloss makes your lips feel wonderful, so why not apply more?

~ 86% of participants had a significant improvement in the appearance of lines and wrinkles.

I have been using this product on-and-off for about 2 months now, and while I cannot see a different in the appearance of lines and wrinkles (maybe because I don't have either yet,) I feel like this product is doing good things for my lips especially when you consider the beneficial ingredients.  This gloss is packed with Vitamins E, A, and C and other nourishing ingredients.  

~ 76% had a significant improvement in volume and hydration. 

I would agree with the hydration claim.  This is gloss is unique in that you get a healthy gloss look with the benefits of a balm.  As for the volume claim, I am not sure how I would really be able to quantify lip volume, but I can say that my lips look good!

~ 86% said their lips felt nourished. 

Nourished and healthy, check and check!

~ a luxe balm and a rich gloss in one

Yes, this is totally a balm-gloss hybrid.

Overall Impression:

I love the application of this gloss and healthy, glowing look it imparts on my lips.  Lovechild is the only color that I have sampled, and this color is great.  I hear a lot of people describe certain lip colors as "your-lips-but-better" and I never really experienced that look myself until I tried this gloss.  Lovechild is such a pretty muted pink that enhances my own lip color. At first I wasn't thrilled that I needed to reapply after only 2 hours, but I honestly do not mind because I love the feel and look of this gloss.

Will I buy a full-size version of the project?

After I use up some of the other glosses that I have, I will definitely be adding this gloss to my collection.

What do you think of the Naked Ultra Nourishing Lipglosses?