May & June Favorite Products!

Hey guys!

So....I'm back! And I'm excited to share with you some of my favorite things from the last two months! I'm kinda embarrassed about just how long it's been since I last blogged. But, let's just dive into my favorite things so far this summer!

Cinnamon Sugared Doughnut Candle, Pink Apple Punch Candle, Pantene Daily Moisture Renewal Conditioner, Pantene Sheer Volume Shampoo, China Glaze Too Yacht to Handle, Butter London Ladybird, Formula X Brazen, Urban Decay De-Slick Spray, It Cosmetics CC Cream, Moroccanoil, French Lavender and Honey Shower Gel and Body Spray, Too Faced Chocolate Bar, Stila Smudgestick, Jordana Best Lash Extreme, NARS Orgasm, and Tarte Lights Camera Lashes

Bath and Body Works Candle: Cinnamon Sugared Doughnut

Let me say, that I have an unhealthy obsession with this candle and it has only gotten worse by working in the store during the June Semi-Annual Sale. I LOVE this candle. I can't describe the amount of love I have for it. It's perfect. I've heard people say it smells like churros, but I think it smells like heaven. 

Pink Apple Punch Candle

Part of the Summer Sips collection, this was the first purchase I made mostly because I love the strong hint of apple. It's also been the most popular in store. If you love strong, fruity scents, try this out because it can't be beat. 

Pantene Sheer Volume Shampoo & Pantene Daily Moisture Renewal

My new favorite hair combination, this has impressed me SO much the past two months. It makes my hair feel clean, look shinny, feel soft and sleek, and healthy. I haven't used Pantene in a few years, but I've always loved their stuff and I'm so happy I came across this combination. 

China Glaze Too Yacht to Handle

A newer purchase, I think this is gonna be my summer nail color. It's bright, it's fun, and it's the best turquoise I've yet to find. Plus, I always find China Glaze applies beautifully every time. 

Butter London Ladybird

This is my go to red for the summer. It's a brighter red with a little orange in it, and I'm so impressed by it's staying power and how pretty the color is! Plus I love the name!

Formula X Brazen

I've never been much of a fan of pink nails, but this color has definitely changed my mind. This is the perfect blue-based pink that I've ever tried. It stays on the nails forever and it's the most girly, pretty color. 

Urban Decay De-Slick Spray

I've said it a million times, but this makeup setting spray is one of my Holy Grail items. It makes my skin so much easier to handle and deal with during the summer. If you have oily skin, you need to try this out. I use it before my makeup, after I apply, and all throughout the day anytime I'm feeling grimy or oily. 

It Cosmetics CC Cream in Fair

I raved about this stuff a few months ago, but then I abandoned it. However, I went back to it and this time, instead of using a Beauty Blender, used a Real Techniques brush and got totally different results. I love the way it looks and feels on my skin. It's light but provides at least medium coverage. It has tons of sunscreen in it, which is great for summer, and I feel like it just makes my skin look glowy and happy. 

Moroccanoil

My all-time number one hair Holy Grail, I've gone back to using this almost every other day and once again, it never fails to let me down. I love the smell of this stuff and I love how smooth, shinny, soft, and manageable it leaves my crazy poofy hair. 

Bath & Body Works French Lavender Honey Shower Gel and Body Spray Minis

Let me start by saying that I don't honestly like the smell of lavender normally. So for the longest time this scent didn't even appear on my radar because I thought it would be like all the other lavender scents in the world: either too herbal or too artificial. Well, I was totally wrong about this stuff. It hardly smells like lavender! With the sweetness of the honey and apricot this smells like the prettiest, floral and sweet scent. I'm so in love with this scent that I can't wait to buy the larger sizes. I can't recommend this stuff enough. 

Too Faced Chocolate Bar Palette

This was the first purchase I made from my first paycheck and I'm so happy I did. I wanted something that would last and be an investment and it truly is. First off, it smells amazing. Second, I love the colors Marzipan and Milk Chocolate. I find myself always opening it up and using at least one of those shades. I especially like Stila Kitten with Milk Chocolate in the crease. 

Stila Smudgestick in Stingray

I've had a love/hate thing with this mechanical pencil liner. First off, I love how black it is. I might be the darkest mechanical pencil I've ever used. Second, I think it has a pretty decent staying power. Third, it glides like a dream across my lashline. However, I find the consistency very much like Urban Decays 24/7 Liners, which I didn't like because they were so messy to use. But, I keep finding myself going back to this and I love the packaging.

Jordana Best Lash Extreme Mascara

I went back to this mascara recently (I'm currently on a mission to find the best mascara ever and am really struggling). I really do love this stuff. It's so dramatic, affordable, and applies easily. 

NARS Orgasm Blush

I went back to my first blush I ever used this month and have refallen in love with it. I think Orgasm is just the best color for summer. I find that it goes with all of my makeup, and on my skin at least, looks so natural and glowy!

Tarte Lights! Camera! Lashes! Mascara

Another old favorite, I've been using this mini this month too. I like it a lot and love how it defines each and every little lash I have. It lengthens great and the packaging is adorable. Plus I just generally love Tarte as a brand. However, if I know I'll be sweating this is not a great choice because it loves smudging and flaking. 

So those were all my favorites! Let me know what products you've been loving!  

March Favorites

Hey guys!

This month I got to try out a lot of new products, so I'm really excited to show them to you. I'm in full spring mode (even though as I write this it's only about 50 degrees outside), so a lot of things that I'm gonna share with you kinda show that I'm in a spring state of mind.

As you can see, there's a bunch of favorites this month and I can't wait to share them with you.

Nail Polish:

Left to Right: Victoria's Secret "Lucky," Essie "Bikini So Teeny," Essie Romper Room," and Essie "Lilacism"

 
VS Lucky

I was skeptical about nail polish from Victoria's Secret, but this was great. The application was flawless, the polish lasted a week!! And the color is truly gorgeous. A perfect mint green color.

Essie Bikini So Teeny

I love this pale blue polish. This month I've really been into light blues and purples and this became a new obsession for me. It has a subtle shimmer and the color is so unique.
 
Essie Romper Room

Very similar to Fiji, but this is a little pinker. I love it! I think it's the perfect girly color for spring and I can't get enough of pale pinks.

Essie Lilacism

This is very similar to Bikini So Teeny, but with a touch of purple. I wore this twice this month, which should show you just how much I adore this color.

Makeup and Skincare:

 
Boots Expert Sensitive Gentle Refreshing Toner

After I wash my face, I like to go over my skin with a cotton pad with this toner to make sure I pick up any last traces of dirty or makeup. This makes my skin feel super clean and I think it kind of helps reduce redness. I really like this and it's super affordable at Target, but I think overall the Simple Toner is better. But I'll continue using this for now.

Real Techniques Blush Brush

I have really enjoyed using this blush brush this month with my Milani Luminoso blush. It's very soft and I think it makes apply blush really easy. If you are looking for good brushes, definitely check out Real Techniques.

NARS Alhambra Eyeshadow Duo

I'm obsessed with this two colors for an all over the eye look. I mix them together and it just creates the perfect shimmery champagne color. The quality and packaging is amazing, like most NARS products and I can't believe I've lived without this duo.
 
Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara

I began using this mascara sample this month and fell in total and complete love. This mascara makes my lashes super defined, very long, and so volumized. I can't get enough of it.
 
Benefit They're Real Mascara

I also started using a full size of this mascara and I'm just as impressed with this. It is definitely more of a lengthening mascara and I love how it hardly ever clumps. It stays all day and I really love using this too.

First Aid Beauty Skin Rescue Deep Cleanser with Red Clay

I featured this in my February favorites as well, but I wanted to feature this again because it has worked wonders with my complexion. I love how soft and clean it makes my face feel and I feel like it's definitely helped clear up my face.

It Cosmetics CC Cream

This has been my go to face product in March because it has a medium-full coverage, felt nice on the skin, has SPF and is super easy to apply. By far the best CC cream I've tried.
 
Hair and Body:

Big Sexy Hair Spray and Play Hairspray

At Ulta this month, I got this on sale for $10 and am so glad I took advantage of the sale. This hair spray is fantastic at holding my curls all day, without the awful scent of the L'Oreal Elnet.

Herbal Essences Body Envy Shampoo

I've used this shampoo as a clarifying shampoo to make my hair really clean and less heavy. It definitely does the job and makes my hair smell like oranges, which is seriously the best thing ever.

The Body Shop Mango Shower Gel

I've fallen in love with The Body Shop shower gels this month and one that I'm obsessed with is the Mango scent. This smells like fresh fruit and is perfect for spring and summer. It leaves a light scent on my skin and leaves me feeling soft and clean.

Victoria's Secret Pure Seduction Bloom

I love this body spray. It's been my go to scent this month and I can't get enough of it or the cute packaging.

 It's a 10 Miracle Leave-In with Keratin

I forgot to take a picture of this at first, but I've been crazy about the It's a 10 Miracle Leave-In with Keratin. I got this for free at Ulta and I think it makes my hair feel and look even better than the original version. It also smells way better. It's great at detangling and at making my hair soft and smooth.

Candle:

Bath and Body Works Honeysuckle Bouquet

This candle is such a great spring candle because it's the perfect floral. It's not super overpowering, but has such a great flowery scent. Plus the packaging is super cute too.

What were your favorites for the month of March?

January Favorites

Hey there!

It's now officially February, which I have some mixed feelings about. I love Valentine's Day (any holiday where there are hearts, red, pink, polka dots, and lots of cute little floral things is at the top of my list), but I really don't want this semester to fly too much, since April is the month that I pretty much have the biggest, most important school project of my life due. Seriously, I'm kinda freaking out about it.

Anyway, since I didn't do a December Favorites and because I've tried out a lot of new things in the month of January, I'm pretty excited to share with you my favorite products this month. So let's take a look.

Milani Brow Fix Kit

This month I found myself in a little bit of a brow product bind. I had been using the Maybelline Define a Brow (which I truly dislike, but was too cheap to buy anything else), but when that ran out, I didn't know what to use. I found this product just laying in my makeup collection collecting dust. Last spring I picked this up, but deemed it too light to use. However, I've found despite the fact it's a little light, it makes my brows look so good! Like natural and put together at the same time. I combine the two brown colors with an angled Sigma brush and then just fill them in, then follow that up with a little clear mascara. I'm so pleased! Sometimes, the key is to just shop your makeup collection!

Victoria's Secret Passion Struck Body Wash

I don't know if others feel this way, but after Christmas this year I was in the mood for spring. Forget the snow, sweaters, boots, and cozy scents. I was ready for fruit, floral, coral, sundresses, and flipflops. So even if the weather doesn't agree with me (hello, snow!), this body wash definitely helped me cure my spring fever. It is one of their new scents and I really like it because it's girly, fruity and floral, but not obnoxious at all. It's said to smell like Fuji apple and vanilla orchid and I really love this a lot.

Benefit Rockateur Blush

This is the first Benefit blush that I've ever tried, and honestly I was a tad skeptical when I heard all the rave reviews about this blush when it first came out. First of all, I dislike the name for some odd reason. And I'm a little late to the huge rose gold craze. But, I decided to pick this up this month and am so glad I did! This is such a pretty, natural, everyday blush color. I've found the best brush to use to apply this is my MAC 168 because it's firm and layers the product on really well. Plus I'm always pleasantly surprised by the floral scent. And I think the packaging is pretty cute too.

Jordana Best Lash Extreme Mascara

I picked this up on a whim on New Year's Day from Kmart and seriously, I can tell you how amazing this mascara is. I can't believe not everyone owns this mascara. It's volumnizing, lengthening, and so dramatic! When it comes to mascara, the bigger/faker looking, the better in my opinion. And this just comes out beautifully! I've definitely gotten my $2.99 worth of this stuff!

Suave Moroccan Infusion Shampoo & Conditioner

I went back to a summer staple this month and have refallen in love with it. In my 2013 favorites I talked about my love for the Total Repair 5 from L'Oreal, which I had been using almost religiously. However, I began to notice my hair was lacking some of the shine and healthiness it used to have. So I went back to this duo and instantly saw a huge change for the better in my hair. It's so shinny and smooth when I use this stuff! I can't believe how affordable it is either!

Lush Popcorn Lip Scrub

I picked this up after Christmas and I love it. I think it's without a doubt a winter must-have if you have chapped lips. Not only does it taste amazing, but it really helps your chap stick sink in deeper after you use this.

Lorac Behind the Scenes Eyeshadow Primer

This came with my Lorac Pro Palette, and at first I turned up my nose at it. I figured it would be subpar like the Urban Decay Primer Potion or the Too Faced Shadow Insurance. However, I eventually found myself using it and falling totally in love. Guys, this is even better than the NARS version (and $3 cheaper!). I ask my eyeshadow to last all day (which means usually about 10-12 hours teaching) and this primer holds up that entire time. It's amazing! If you have oily lids, you need to check this stuff out because I can't get enough of it.

Lorac Pro Palette

I received this for Christmas and I'm so glad that I did! I must admit, this is better than the Naked Palettes. I think the shadows are all great quality, they last all day, have great color payoff, and I love that there's both matte and shimmer eyeshadows in here. I've used this palette all month long, never straying away from it. I can't get enough out of the Nude or Light Bronze colors. I usually wear one of those with Taupe in the crease.

So that's my favorites for January! What have you been loving this month? I love product recommendations!

By the way, if you like seeing what products I've featured in my monthly favorites previously, make sure to check out this page of my entire list of favorites!

What Beauty Products Are in My Shower?

On Youtube, I always find it super entertaining to watch the "What's in my Shower?" videos. It's like a look into people's lives showing what products are important enough to crowd into their tiny showers, and I find that totally fascinating.

So I decided to finally share what I store in my shower! Here's a look at it!

 

The first thing we'll take a look at is my all time favorite shampoo and conditioner. I absolutely love Suave Professional's Moroccan Infusion shampoo and conditioner. My hair is super silky and smooth after using it!

Next to that in my shower, I have my razor and some body wash. I absolutely love the Schick Hydro Silk disposable razors. They worked amazingly and make my skin feel smooth and so hydrated. Next to that I have my Philosophy I Love Candy Corn body wash that I bought last fall. I adore this sweet scent and think it's perfect for fall.

In the next little cubby, I have first my Living Proof No Frizz Shampoo and Conditioner. When I want to switch up my hair products, I usually opt for this pricier pair of hair products. While I think that it doesn't work nearly as good as the Suave ones, it does a great job of gently cleaning my hair and making it frizz free.

Beside that I have my EOS Vanilla Bliss shaving gel. I'm honestly not a shaving cream person (I usually use body wash), but I love the scent of this.

Next up is my Bath and Body Works Sweet Cinnamon Pumpkin body wash, one of my favorite fall staples. I adore this stuff. I've used this body wash almost entirely throughout the month of September.

Then I have my Cetaphil Oil Control Foam Wash. I don't use this super often, but it does make my skin feel pretty clean and it doesn't make my face any oiler. Plus it's foamy, so that makes it fun to use.

The next cutout has my Country Chic body wash from Bath and Body Works. I love this scent so much! Next that is my all time favorite face wash and mask. I love Neutrogena's Clear Pore Cleanse and Mask. It keeps my skin clear and definitely helps with oil control. I always start with this every time I get in the shower.

Finally I have a pink loofa from Bath and Body Works, Lush's Cynthia Sylvia Stout Shampoo, and Lush's American Cream Conditioner. These Lush hair products are really great (super strong smelling though). I usually use these maybe once every other week.

So that's what is in my shower. These are all products that I use quite frequently and really like!

What items are your most favorite in your shower?

First Impressions of My New Lush Products!

Hi guys!

If you read about my recent haul, you know that I bought three products from Lush, and that these three are the first ones I've ever tried!

To be honest, I'm not a huge fan of natural products. I've tried Burt's Bees hair care and skincare products (I love their lip balms!), as well as others I can't think of now, and I've always been disappointed unfortunately. Plus I'm such a sucker for good smelling products, and to me, even though it's way healthier and natural, I didn't like anything I smelled in Lush before.

But this time I went in with a slightly more open mind and with the help of an salesgirl, I picked out a few things to try out.

Cynthia Sylvia Stout

 

From the website it's described as a "shampoo for dry or fluffy hair that needs to be tamed."

"Beer shampoo, really? For volume, softness and shine we proudly serve our tremendously effective pub-inspired shampoo. Cynthia Sylvia Stout is made with organic vegan stout beer from a local brewery, which contains protein to give your hair weight, smoothness and gloss. It's excellent for hair that tends to go frizzy in damp or humid environments. Cynthia smells delicious, just like a brandy, stout and lemon cocktail and even makes curly hair unbelievably shiny and bouncy once again. Give your thirsty hair a drink of this."       

Features

• Stout to calm: For all hair types but especially beneficial for fluffy, hard-to-manage hair.
• Friend to all scalps: Yeast improves the health of the hair and scalp.
• For a polished finish: Organic lemon juice is a gentle cleanser that adds masses of shine and gloss.

All of those things sound great, right? I have poofy, slightly frizzy hair that could always use extra shine and taming, so when I read the reviews online and the description, I got really excited to try it! Most of the reviews online talked about this as miracle product that changed their hair, but many also complained about the smell. I don't honestly know how to describe the smell, besides maybe men's cologne mixed with a little lemon. I wouldn't say that it's a bad scent, but I also wouldn't wear it as a perfume on purpose either. But the scent is pretty strong in the shower.

Aside from the smell, I must say that I was really impressed with my first use of this shampoo. It lathered pretty well for a natural shampoo (actually better than a lot of shampoos in general), and when I rinsed, it left my hair so glossy and smooth! Guys, this was before my conditioner! You know that I'm obsessed with Suave's Moroccan Infusion Shampoo, but it doesn't rinse as well as this! Seriously, I could already tell a difference in terms of how shinny my hair was! So far I'm impressed with this!

American Cream Conditioner

I had heard about this conditioner before from a few of my favorite Youtubers, so I was excited when the salesgirl recommended it. She said that a lot of people feel this conditioner and don't think it's heavy enough, so they use more. She said that I don't need to, that I should just use the normal amount and I'd be fine.

From Lush.com it says:

"American Cream is our dreamy, medium-strength conditioner for soft, shiny, fragrant locks. Softening honey, scalp clarifying lavender and fresh oranges make a conditioner suitable for all hair types to soften rough ends and keep hair calm. Not to mention the absolutely delectable strawberry vanilla cream scent. Mark was inspired by a vision of 1950s US milk bars, where teenagers would meet and drink frothy, creamy milkshakes. He concocted our best-selling conditioner to soften and control, and evoke memories of poodle skirts and jukeboxes. No wonder it remains such a customer favorite year after year!"

Features

• Smells like teen spirit: Suitable for all hair types, just about anyone can enjoy soft hair scented with gorgeous strawberries and vanilla.
• Double your pleasure: Our medium-strength conditioner leaves your hair calmed, softer and transformed.
• Fresh is best: Strawberries are rich in vitamin C and have cleansing properties.

I also was really intrigued with the scent, because it's supposed to be strawberry vanilla (like a milkshake I guess). I'd say that it smells pretty good, sort of like my Moroccan Infusion Conditioner actually. It doesn't though smell truly like strawberries and vanilla. It has that natural product smell with it. And if you don't like that smell, I don't think this would be for you, because it lingers in your hair like none other. Seriously, I'm excited if my wet hair still has the scent. This lingered for two days, no joke. I think it did a pretty good job overall of making my hair soft and manageable. I still had hair that needed detangling getting out of the shower, but I've never found anything that made me not have to do that.

So as far as the hair products go, I was impressed! My hair really cooperated well and I'm excited to keep using this stuff! Both were definitely great recommendations for my hair type! I would say that they left my hair a little bit more coated than other shampoos and conditioners and they left it a smidgen more oily (but in the grand scheme of things not that bad. I only had to use dry shampoo on my bangs for day 2).

Catastrophe Cosmetic Fresh Face Mask

Recently I have gotten more into skincare, so I wanted to try out a face mask. I told the salesgirl that I have oily skin, and since I wasn't particularly break-out prone, she highlighted this mask for me.

According to the Lush website:

Blueberry infused maintenance mask
      

"Still learning about proper skin care? No need to be embarrassed. After all, every face has different needs! We recommend starting here. Prevent disasters by taking regular care with our deep cleaning blueberry mask, Catastrophe Cosmetic. The little blue bulbs are packed with vitamins, with a gentle calamine base to cleanse the skin without stripping it of its natural oils. Use this one weekly as a deep cleansing treatment to kick off your regular skin care routine."

Features

• Gentle enough for everyone: Catastrophe is one of our best-selling masks because it’s gentle on all skin types.
• Local matters: We buy our blueberries for Catastrophe Cosmetic from a local farmer here in British Columbia.
• Calm catastrophes: We use calamine powder for its calming and soothing effect.

Overall, I was a little shocked when I found this needed to be refrigerated. But I got over that pretty quick. Because in my opinion, of the three products I purchased, this one smells the best. It literally just smells like clean blueberries. I love the smell so much.

So before my shower, I layered this all over my face and waited about five minutes before rinsing it off. One thing I noticed about this mask is that it really set in to my skin (kind of what I assume a mud mask would feel like). I also noticed that after my shower, that I still could A.) smell the mask perfectly B.) that it left sort of a film all over my face. I wouldn't say that it made my face more oily afterward, but it definitely didn't mattify my skin like the salesgirl said it would. I honestly sort of felt like using my Simple Toner on my skin just to get the film-y feeling off. But my skin felt really soft and smooth and it smelled nice, so I'm willing to try it again as a once a week type thing.

There you go! In the future I'll follow up on these products and let you know if my opinions change at all. Also, please let me know if you have any favorites from Lush that I should check out!





 

 

Summer Park Meadows Haul

Hey everyone!

My summer school classes finally wrapped up, but I’ve been super busy getting my life together and starting summer in between. But I did manage to sneak in some time and visit a dear friend and do some major shopping recently.

Pretty much all the stores I bought stuff from are ones that I only get to visit a couple times a year, if that. I seriously wish I lived closer to these (maybe it’s a good thing though?). Anyway, let's take a look at some of the fun things I got!

 

 

My friend and I went to the Vera Bradley pajama party launch, and the first 50 or so guests got a free reusable shopping bag! So that was fun to get! I also picked up the set of three cosmetic bags in Summer Cottage. It was 40% off and I really couldn't help it! I think the set of three cosmetic bags are not only cute, but super practical for traveling and makeup storage! Plus the colors are perfect for the 4th of July! (I adore the little daisies on them as well!)

I also shopped around at Lush a little. I had been in Lush only once before, and after sniffing around, I wasn't really impressed. But I decided to try out some products at the recommendations of the salesgirls there. I picked up American Cream Conditioner, Cynthia Sylvia Stout shampoo, and Catastrophe Cosmetic Fresh Face mask. So far I've tried all these products out and I'd say I liked them pretty well for a first impression!
 

Then I went to Urban Outfitters and picked up a couple more of the BDG V-neck tees. I love the prints on them and I think they are so cute for summer! Both have floral prints and I can't wait to wear them.

And inside Forever 21 I picked up a brush I was eyeing a while back in my monthly lusts post and a little bow necklace that was only $1.80. I don't know if other people feel the same way, but I absolutely hate shopping in the store at Forever 21. I get way too overwhelmed with everything there.



 

Finally what's a trip to the mall without stopping to look at some makeup at MAC and Sephora? At Sephora I decided to finally invest in a nice bronzer (Tarte's Park Avenue Princess) and I got decided I wanted to try Tarte's blushes then many people rave about them. The makeup artist suggest I try Dazzled (which is described as a soft rose/kind of plum shade). So far I really liked both!

I also stopped by the MAC store and picked up another Technakohl eyeliner, which I'm almost out of. I also picked up a couple of eyeshadows in Jest(the one on left and wedge, the one on the right). So I'm excited to try those out!

So overall it was a fun trip and I can't wait to go back!

 

 

 

First Impressions of Suave Moroccan Infusion Shampoo and Conditioner

Hi everyone!

If there’s one thing I can say with all certainty, is that I’m a complete sucker for new hair products. I always have been (one of my earliest memories is that of me telling my grandma that I got all A’s on my report card in like second grade, and to reward me, she offered to buy me anything in Walgreens-I love Walgreens. So I bought a Rusk Shampoo, my first salon shampoo).

 

SuaveMoroccan Infusion

So recently I picked up Suave Professionals Moroccan Infusion shampoo and conditioner at Walgreens (I really do love Walgreens). I’d been eyeing this for awhile mostly because it says it has Moroccan argan oil in it. Now, if you should know one thing about me, it’s that the original Moroccanoil (the light blue bottle that costs like $40 a pop), is my holy grail hair product. I love the smell of it (if there were a perfume, I would be all over it), and pretty much it’s the only product that allows me not to have to wash my hair and then sleep on it to make it less poofy. The one product. I cherish this stuff.

So it’s kinda understandable that I’m going to compare this shampoo and conditioner to Moroccanoil, especially since they state right on the packaging that this is comparable to the shine it gives.

Since this is a first impressions post, this is based off of one use. As with most hair products, I think you really start to see how good it is after the first few uses, when your hair is new to the product. I’ll let you know of my long-term thoughts, but right now this is based off the first use.

First off, the scent. Is it like my holy grail product? Not really sadly. While the original Moroccanoil smells heavenly…like vanilla and musk, this is just most musk. I don’t find it super offending, but I wouldn’t wear it as a perfume. It’s a lot like a cheap cologne. Not entirely bad, but if you dislike it, you probably won’t be able to stand it. It’s pretty strong, something that I sorta like, because it did linger in my hair. It filled my bathroom with its scent, which I personally enjoyed.

Speaking of using it, the shampoo suds up extremely well. Like, I used way too much and had an explosion of suds on my head. So if you really like a nice, big lather, you will like this shampoo.

The conditioner isn’t as heavy as I’d thought it could be, but just to be safe I only put it from the ears down to avoid excess oil on my roots.

When it came to styling, I purposely avoided all additional products except for my Not Your Mother’s Knotty to Nice Detangling spray. I used a hair dryer on my hair and instantly noticed that it seemed softer and shinier than it does with my S Factor Smoothing Shampoo and Conditioner (which, I’d like to add, are over $45 more expensive…).

The next morning after washing my hair, I noticed the biggest difference. My hair was smooth, glossy, frizz free, and straight. So instead of curling my hair, I just took my flat iron and straightened it out a bit. And basically had a great hair day. I did have a little static in my hair, but it’s probably because of lack of humidity (less than 10%) and the wind.

And as of day 2, my hair is definitely not too oily.

So I’m pretty impressed. Especially for the price. I’ll let you know if my opinions change at all, but this might become my favorite shampoo and conditioner.

May Lusts

Hi guys!

I can’t believe how fast May is going! I’ve already finished my first week of summer school (only six more!). Isn’t that exciting? Anyway, between studying and writing papers for my classes, I’ve been lusting over some really fun things this month. With summer coming and me wishing my hair would grow magically overnight, there are a ton of hair products listed, in case you were wondering! Anyway, let’s take a look!

Brush, MakeupBag, Miss Freeze Hairspray, Market Peach Candle, Summer Boardwalk Candle, Wayto Grow Shampoo & Conditioner, Lock Luster Oil Treatment, True Blue SpaShea Cashmere Shower Cream, Dream Angels Multi-Way Bra, & Chevron Bedding

 

Forever 21 Mint Paddle Brush

Okay guys, isn't this the cutest brush ever?! I think so! Previously I thought my polka dot one from Ulta was the cutest, but this one now is officially the cutest. It also comes in coral and black (also both super cute as well) and for less than $4. I'm pretty sure I might buy the coral and mint ones because I can't choose between them! Plus, my brush at home loses at least two bristles a day, so I think a new one is justified, right?

Forever 21 Makeup Bag

Speaking of cute cheap things from Forever 21, every single one of their makeup bags wants to come home to me. This one with the hearts and the mint green (I'm really loving mint green, huh?) is calling me, along with about five others! And who can say no to bags that are so inexpensive and so cute?

Not Your Mother's Miss Freeze Hairspray

So I have been really wanting to try a new hairspray (hopefully something inexpensive) and this one has been calling me. Unfortunately I already purchased the She's a Tease hairspray from the same brand (I'll let you know my thoughts), but if that one doesn't work out I definitely have my eyes on this one.

Bath and Body Works Market Peach Candle

When the Market Peach and other fruity scents came out like two months ago, I wasn't really on the whole fruity bandwagon. I mean, when I think of spring smells, I think of blooms and lilacs and more florals, not fruit. But now that it's getting really hot and transitioning into summer, I definitely am loving the fruity smells, particularly Market Peach! It is pretty much my favorite scent right now from Bath and Body Works and I would love to get my hands on the 3 wick candle! I have the Wallflower in my room up at school and it smells so fun and sweet!

Bath and Body Works Summer Boardwalk Candle

Okay, so if you haven't smelled this yet, you totally need to! I first smelled it without reading the description, so I was shocked when I realized it was caramel corn! I was expecting some weird beach scent or something. But no, this sweet amazing fall-like scent is awaiting! I love love love it! I'm a fall person at heart, give my Sweet Cinnamon Pumpkin and Pumpkin Cupcake anyday and I'll be a happy girl. But this candle is one that can definitely help me hold out for fall!

Not Your Mother's Way to Grow Shampoo and Conditioner

Reading the reviews of this online, they say it smells amazing and sweet. Which of course calls me! Plus it promises to help make your healthy, eventually helping it to become long and strong. Ummm....all those things sound amazing! Unfortunately, every time I attempt to buy this in Ulta they are sold out! Cue my sad face. Anyway, I'm still holding out and would love to try this stuff out!

Not Your Mother's Lock Luster Oil Treatment

Continuing with the hair trend, I am super curious to try out this oil treatment by NYM! First of all, it's like $6. A product with macadamia oil and argon oil for under $10? Sign me up for that! Basically it's supposed to help condition hair and make it moisturized and healthy and happy.

Bath and Body Works True Blue Spa Shea Cashmere Shower Cream

So for some odd reason my hands have been ridiculously dry recently. I can't explain why. And my regular lotion was not cutting the mustard, so I went to an old tried and true favorite: my Shea Cashmere hand lotion. As I was using this, making my hands feel super moisturized without being oily, I fell back in love with the scent and basically everything about it. So now I would love to get my hands on the shower cream so my itchy, irritated summer skin can feel smooth and nice! Plus smell amazing!

Victoria's Secret Dream Angels Multi-Way Bra

A few weeks ago I went to buy a new everyday bra. One of the associates recommended this one and I fell in love! I have since bought two, but the hoarder in me would love another one (or two?). Basically, these are the best bras I have ever worn. It's super comfortable, it provides support, lifts, and is just a gorgeous bra in general. I'm in love!

American Made Chevron Bedding

I recently found this on Pinterest and fell in love with this beautiful bedding! I've always loved the color combination of yellow and gray because it's so clean and fresh and modern. This set is calling me like crazy! So if you want to help me out, let me know if you prefer this one over my other choices for next year's apartment? I'd seriously love you forrrever!!

So that's my lusts for May! What things do you have your eyes on?

 

A Trip to Ulta

Hi everyone!

Yesterday I went to Ulta for a sample of the Macadamia hair mask that I’ve been lusting over for pretty much forever. However, I didn’t just walk out of there with the sample.

I picked up some spring nail polishes from London Butter (these are the first from that brand I’ve ever bought, so hopefully they are as nice as everyone one says they are).

Fiver and Trout Pout

 

And I randomly picked up a travel size of Urban Decay’s De-Slick makeup setting spray. Hey, it was at the checkout and my face was oily. So I'd say I had a successful shopping trip. And I'll let you know what I think of the nail polish, the mask, and the Urban Decay De-Slick.

March Favorites

Hey guys!

I hope you had a great Easter! Mine was definitely a lot of fun! Here are my March favorites! Make sure to comment and tell me what things you are currently loving for spring!


1. Marc Jacobs Dot 2. Lilac Wallflower 3. L’OrealTelescopic Shocking Extensions 4. NARS Orgasm 5. Victoria’s Secret Vanilla Lace Body Wash 6. EssieMint Candy Apple 7. Organix Macadamia Oil Hair Mask

 

    Marc Jacobs Dot Perfume

I’ve had this since my birthday last September and I’ve loved it, but in March I found myself going to this almost every day. Plus I think the bottle is just the cutest thing ever. According to Sephora’s website, it has notes of red berries, dragonfruit, honeysuckle, jasmine, coconut water, orange blossom, vanilla, driftwood, and musk.

    Lilac Wallflower

I finally broke out my spring Wallflowers, and the first one I went to is Lilac. I love it. While I’d say it’s not as good as the real thing, it’s definitely fresh and pretty smelling.

L’Oreal Telescopic Shocking Extensions Mascara

In March this was definitely my go-to mascara. I love how long it makes my lashes! It’s easy to take off, doesn’t wear off or flake, and it super black and dramatic.

NARS Orgasm

With March officially bringing in Spring, I’ve been loving Orgasm as my go-to blush because it’s peachy, shimmering, and warm colored. It’s light and pretty and so wearable!

Victoria’s Secret Vanilla Lace Body Wash

I showed this in my Spring Haul post a few weeks ago and have loved it since. It’s sweet and perfume-y smelling. And it’s totally just like Bath and Body Works Vanilla Bean Noel. Only without the Christmas packaging.

Essie Mint Candy Apple

Everyone has been raving about this color for spring and I can see why. It’s the perfect mint color (with a cute name) and it wears extremely well. I love it, even though I was hesitant to buy it at first. It’s absolutely perfect for spring.

Organix Macadamia Oil Hair Mask

As you should know from all my monthly lust posts, I’ve wanted the Macadamia Hair Mask. However, I decided to try out this less expensive version first. While I wouldn’t say this is a holy grail product, it does make my hair soft and shiny and it smells really good!

It's Me...With Bangs

 

Hi there!

Recently, I had been mulling over the idea of cutting my bangs (mostly thanks to Pinterest and my growing frustration with my chin-length bangs getting in the way). So I decided to take the plunge. At first I wasn’t so sure. But they are definitely growing on me.

Are you the type of person that hates making changes with your hair? Or can easily chop it off and grow it out without batting an eye? I'd say that I'm not too emotionally attached to my hair. Last summer I cut off easily four or five inches without shedding a tear. However, now I'm kinda wishing that I hadn't cut it haha.

Curling Wand Magic!!

If you read my birthday haul post, you are probably already aware of the fact that I received a curling wand for my birthday. And seeing how that was well over a month ago, you may or may not be wondering if my hair (which had be previously deemed “unresponsive”) decided to respond to a curling wand.

In that case, I can say it most definitely has! My Revlon Keratin Therapy curling wand has worked miracles on my hair that absolutely refuses to hold any sort of texture.

I don't know if it's just how a curling wand works, or if it's this specific one, but my hair has been curling so beautifully, that it's my new favorite way to do my hair. I'm obsessed. The best part? It was under $30 at Target. 

It takes my about 40 minutes to do my entire head, but I'm hoping as I get more used to this and divide my hair into sections better, that the time will eventually start to be shaved off.  

And the best part? I only have to use a couple of sprays of hairspray, and it stays all day long, and even gives me fantastic waves on my day 2 hair.

To everyone out there, do you have any inexpensive hairsprays you love? I've been using a travel size of the Big Sexy Hair hairspray (which is like $6), but I've been wanting to find something cheaper....