Influenster Spring Box!

Hey guys- its that time again- time to tell you all the goodies I got in my spring VOXBOX.  I am going to do individual reviews but I thought that I would just tell you what came inside my VOXBOX and link the individual reviews so you can pick and choose what you want to read about!  You should check out Inflenster.com if you are interested in trying out new products in exchange for an honest review.  Its been really fun and it's introduced our family to some fun new things! 




#1- Secret Outlast completely clean clear gel deodorant and antiperspirant



#2- OSIS+ Dust IT texture Mattifying Powder

#3- imPRESS Press-on Manicure

 

#4- NYC APPLELICIOUS Glossy Lip Balm

#5- TASTYKAKE KANDY BAR KAKES

Tastykake® Kandy Bar Kakes

Ah the tastykake!  Was I excited or what to try these?!  Anyone who knows me at all knows that I like me a good Reese's PB cup from time to time, or everyday- so this was a nice surprise.  I am not a big snack cake person.  I didn't care for the twinkie when it was alive, I don't really like the Swiss rolls- so I may not be the best judge when it comes to these.  

Mine showed up and it was pretty mushed up- hence why I used this beautiful stock image- mine looked like....well- lets just say it wasn't pretty.  I don't know if it was because of being mushed- but my cake was dry.  I think the flavor was good but again- not a huge fan of snack cakes.  Now the kids on the other hand!  LOL- Duncan who is the most gun shy person about new foods dived right in and devoured the whole thing.  Sophie liked it too but she was surprised there wasn't more PB in the Reese's cake.  

I probably will purchase these for the kids again- they LOVED them.  I don't know if they are regional or something though because I cant find them in my Utah Kroger market or Walmart.  We will have to wait and see if this is part of a national launch or what! I hear they also have a York Peppermint Pattie cake which would be up my ally too!  I would say that these are definitely worth a try!  Let me know if you see them locally!

NYC APPLELICIOUS Glossy Lip Balm

So this was probably the most disappointing thing in my Spring VOXBOX.  There are a lot of products like the Maybelline Color Whispers and the Revlon Lip Butters and I think that this is NYC's answer to them.  They are really just a kitchy lip gloss that has an apple in the center with a hint of color and an absolutely unpleasant smell.  Im sad because I love quite a few of NYC products- their fuschia lip gloss lives in my purse.  This just missed the mark for me.  

This product is awesome for the Bonne Bell crowd that wants a smelly flavored lip gloss.  Actually no, I wouldn't even go there- just buy the Bonne Bell.  It has a super strong fake apple smell to it but when you lick your lips its straight up melted plastic/wax flavor.  I could only leave it on my lips for all of 10 minutes before I just wiped it off. I absolutely DO NOT recommend this.  My seven year old didn't even want this.  She said it smelled like apple air freshener mixed with cough syrup which is a pretty good description.  I saved it just so I would remember to write this review and now its going in the trash.  RIP dear lip balm. 

imPRESS Press-on Manicure

I received the imPRESS Press-on Manicure in the Nicole Scherzinger Signature Series.  (OMG thats a mouthful)  If you look at the picture- I received the second from the left- its a french manicure style with zebra and multi colored tropical flowers.  I have tried imPRESS nails once before when I was on vacation and my mom picked me up a box to try. I decided that I should give these another go now that I am at home and doing my normal day to day routine.  

First off- the nail at that was sent to me is NOT my style AT ALL.  I love bright colored and fun nails but these were just tacky.  If it would have been JUST flowers, or JUST glitter, or JUST zebra, or JUST french manicure- they would have been really cute.  All of it together just looked like a hot mess.  It was WAY over styled.  

The second issue I had- these are WAAAAY short.  My nails are not super long by any stretch of the imagination but these press on nails were shorter than my actual nails.  I had to decide if I was going to cut/file my natural nails in order to wear these.  I opted to find the best fitting nail (which was kind of a struggle too) and then file down whatever natural nail was exposed.  

Next- the artificial nails were not even.  Some of them were straight across- some were more rounded, some were crooked and shorter on one side than the other. I tried filing them with a heavy grit file and in the mean time I filed away MORE of my natural nails.  The really nice thing about the shape of these though is that the edge that is closest to your cuticle is beveled so it looks a lot more natural than other press on nails I have seen.  

Once I got them on and started wearing them- I had a couple more snags.  First off- a very literal snag with my hair.  There is a space between the natural nail and the artificial nail  that you cant get rid of.  Because of that- anytime that I put my hand through my hair- my hair could get caught and even get stuck on some of the adhesive and rip my hair out.  This happened on both the edge where the cuticles are and the free edge.  I imagine if you had sorter natural nails though that it would resolve the issue on the free edge of the nail.  The other issue I had is that because there is a space between the free edge- any lotions or soaps or food or anything gets stuck right in there.  I felt like I had to use a nail brush every hour to get all the crap out in between the nails. 

I think that this product is MUCH better suited for a younger person.  A teenager who has short nails and wants to change it up a bit or has a special event coming up and you don't want to spend a lot of money- PERFECT.  I think these are a great option for when you have prom or a date and you want your nails to look nice but don't want the commitment of acrylics or have the time to paint your nails.  I wouldn't recommend them if you are just wanting to wear them on a day to day basis.  They claim to last up to a week but after two or so days I pulled them off and chucked them. Have you tried imPRESS nails?  What did you think?

OSIS+ DUST IT texture Mattifying powder

I literally squealed with excitement when I saw this little bad boy!  I have been looking at this product and products like it for MONTHS and I have been wanting to try it out but never quite made the purchase for whatever reason.  This is a mattifying powder that you sprinkle in the roots of your hair and then you massage in to add lift and volume to your hair.  It also helps absorb any extra oil that may be living on your scalp.

I have been growing my hair out for nearly three years now.  I have pretty curly hair that is super dry so in order to protect it- I very rarely use heat on it.  That means no blow drying which is the only way I have found to give my long, curly hair volume from the roots.  My hair can some times do the shroom- where its flat on top and voluminous on the sides and bottom- which is NOT cute and I have been looking for a product to help me out with that issue-

Que Dust It Powder!  I only put this on the crown portion of my hair and I just sprinkle the tiniest amount in sections.  I then leave it on my hair for about two minutes then I flip my head over and massage the product into the scalp and the roots of my hair for at least a minute.  When I flip my head back over- I have bombshell volume baby!

At first- this can feel a little tacky or sticky but after a bit- it calms down and doesn't feel so textured.  There is absolutely no scent to it which I love and even though the powder is white- you cant see it AT ALL in my  black hair once its rubbed in.  There are also no parabans, sulfates or silicones in it which is great for my "curly girl method" routine.  I think it you have straight hair that you want mega volume with back-combing- I think you would LOVE this.  I even tried it on Duncan's short spiky boy hair and it was awesome for a mo-hawk look that wasn't shiny or "gelly". I would TOTALLY recommend this product.  I will absolutely be repurchasing this and Influenster even gave me a $5 off coupon for this to use at Ulta! 

Secret Outlast Completely Clean Clear Gel

First thing that I received in my Spring VOXBOX from Influenster.com is the Secret Outlast Completely Clean Clear Get Antiperspirant and Deodorant.  I have to admit that I had a mixed reaction to this product initially.  I usually use the Secret Outlast line but in the past I haven't been the biggest fan of gel deodorant.  It has always left my armpits feeling sticky and I felt like I had to air them out for like 5 minutes to dry.  The thing is- summer is HERE.  I wear tank tops all summer long and don't nobody want to see white on my underarms.  I have worn this for just over ten days straight and I honestly have to say- I really, really like this.  


First off- I received the 1.7 oz container and I have to tell you, I had to turn that dang wheel like 20 times to get the gel to come out at all, let alone evenly- so I was worried that I wasn't really getting my 1.7 oz of product.  Once it was primed though- it only takes 2 clicks per underarm and a little really does go a long way.  The other thing that I was pleasantly surprised with is that if you just rub it in for a good 20 seconds- there really is no dry time!  That was shocking actually.  

The scent is super light which I like.  I don't care for deodorants with a scent.  I don't want to be able to TELL that my deodorant is on or competing with other lotions or perfumes.  So that is awesome.  It really does last all day.  It has a 48 hour claim on the packaging but honestly- Im not about to go 2 days on one application.  Its just not my style.  

The best thing about this product to me?  (secret revealed here and now)  I have been doing laser hair removal treatments on my underarms over the last few months.  I have had great results but it does make my underarms a bit sensitive for a a couple of days afterward.  The cooling sensation of the gel was really nice and it didn't irritate my skin at all.  So that was AWESOME.  If you are looking for something to wear to avoid the white chalkiness of the typical deodorant- I would actually really recommend trying this one out.  This aint your 1980's gel deodorant!  :)

The Kristen Awards! Skin care!

THE KRISTEN AWARDS

SKIN CARE

My whole life of makeup actually started with- esthetics or skin care.  Caring for the skin is the #1 best thing that you can do everyday.  You only have one face.  No amount of makeup can help you if your skin is a mess.  Blemishes, hyper pigmentation, sun spots, dryness, oiliness- all issues that we can all deal with from time to time.  So many things can affect your skin- the most prevalent being lack of skin care, hormones, aging and weather.  I will warn you- I will save a buck with makeup and brushes but I honestly don't scrimp on my skincare.  The reason is that skin care STAYS on your face.  Its absorbed into your skin which is your largest organ.  Here are some things that I LOVE.  

Eye Makeup Remover

This one is simple- and there is only one because I refuse to go anywhere else- Neutrogena Oil Free Makeup Remover.  This stuff is AMAZING.  I use it with an exfoliating cotton rounds to remove water proof shadows, gel liners and waterproof mascara like its butter!!  Its the best and its totally cheap!  Don't spend a lot of cash on eye makeup remover- your literally throwing it away.

Face Wash

#3- Simple Refreshing Face Wash-  This stuff is great for sensitive skin.  Its super easy to find and its gentle.  There isn't a smell or any dyes that can irritate the skin. The only down side is that it foams- so it can be drying.  (I try to avoid sulfates in all my face products)  I put it in here because some people just cant live without foam- so I gave you a great choice!  Make sure to rinse super well after this.  

#2- Cetaphil- This stuff is my good ole fall back.  I will try a cleanser but somehow I always come back to it.  It doesn't foam.  Its super gentle.  It rinses clean.  Its awesome for any skin types since there are so many formulas.  I can't say enough good things about it.  

#3- Michael Todd True Organics Charcoal Detox Cleanser-  I never really thought that I would EVER spend money on face wash.  Its just face wash- right?  This product proved me wrong.  This stuff freaked me out at first because its black!  (duh- charcoal)  This stuff cleans deep down, doesn't foam, removes any makeup, has helped with breakouts and white heads and best of all- calmed my skin down.  This stuff is AMAZING.  

Toner

I'm not a great advocate of toner- I feel like if you wash well- you don't need anything with alcohol in it to strip your skin.  Well I have stumbled across these new style toners that are more just to regulate the PH on your skin (so no alcohol) and to add back a bit of moisture.  The best part?  They are in a spray!!  The only thing is that both are on the pricier side and totally skip-able if needs be.  

#2- Embryolisse Eau de Beaute Rosamèlis- This stuff is so refreshing and really pampering.  Its French- so you have to order it online.  You can find it on discount from Hautelook.com when they are on sale. 

#1-JURLIQUE Rosewater Balancing Mist- Another fantastic spray toner.  The only thing that is better than the Embryolisse?  The smell!  OMG- rose yumminess!

Serums

I never gave thoughts to serums when I was in my twenties.  Now that I am firmly planted in my 30s, I am looking to them.  They are always going to be on the pricier side.  You are paying for the science behind it.  They are the best way to get your skin to absorb the vitamins or acids or lipids that your skin starts to lack as you begin to age.  Again- neither are on the cheap side but worth their weight in GOLD.

#2- SkinCeuticals Blemish+ Age Defense- this really changed the texture of my skin.  At one time after having Lyza I had super congested skin.  This stuff cleared it up, softened it and re-texturized.  Selected salons carry it- http://www.skinceuticals.com/_us/_en/members/locate_professional.aspx Will help you find a  place to go try it out!

#1- Michael Todd True Organics Hyaluronic Acid + C Serum- At half the price of the SkinCeuticals, this stuff ROCKS.  It's awesome whether you are are preventing aging, reversing skin damage, dealing with breakouts- this stuff is amazing.  

Eye Cream

I cant live without eye cream.  The eye area is the thinnest skin on your body.  You HAVE to keep it moisturized!  It helps decreasing puffiness, filling in fine lines, it can help with dark circles- if nothing else goes on my face after cleansing- I HAVE to have eye cream.

#3- Olay Eye Cream- the easiest to find and cheapest version.  Its awesome if you only need moisture and no alpha hydroxy acids or firming agents.  This is great for your 20s and even early 30s if you can get away with it.  

#2- Michael Todd True Organics Intensive Organic Eye Cream- this one is a game changer- I didn't expect it to be as amazing as it is.  It comes with a weird applicator that I don't use- I just squirt one pump onto my finger and dab it on.  I LOVE this stuff- I have two on hand at all times.

#3- Avon Anew Ultimate 7S- This stuff is my old faithful.  It has a two part system- a balm/serum you put on first and then a super hydrating cream you put on second.  I only use this at night as its SUPER emollient.  This stuff rocks so much!

Moisturizer

It doesn't matter how old or young you are- you really should be using a moisturizer.  If you are younger- a light version with sunscreen is a great choice.  The older you get, the more emollient and hydrating you should be going.  Alpha Hydroxy Acids should be part of your routine too if you are starting to notice a little less life in your skin or its seeming to be dehydrated.  

#4- Cetaphil Daily Moisture is an awesome pick for everyday use.  It has SPF, is a lighter weight formula and is non irritating which is awesome.

#3- Olay Active Hydrating Beauty Fluid- This has been a go too that my grandmother wore everyday and had me use.  Its the good ole guy that is awesome for daily wear and I know a lot of people hate the smell- I LOVE it- it reminds me of my Grandma Faye and snuggling in her movable bed with her.

#2- Olay Total Effects for Mature Skin- if you need a good night cream that is emollient and nourishing  this is your stuff.  Just because it says Mature- doesn't mean you have to be 70 to use it!  

#1- All things Embryolisse- they have the most amazing moisturizers you have ever seen.  they have an amazing Oil Control Formula, A 24 hour Cream Concentrate Formula and a super hydrating Filaderme formula for dry, dry skin.  These are a French product but if you can hunt these down on Hautelook.com or any other website- you will not be disappointed.  I own all three formulas because my skin needs change throughout the year- so I thought it best to be prepared.  

Masks and Treatments

Masks and Treatments are not a daily thing but are totally good to help exfoliate  de-gunk your skin and rejuvenate. 

#3- Serious Skin Detailer Tri-Phase Facial Peel- This is an awesome and gentle chemical peel that is used to unclog pores and help turn over the surface of ones skin.  I recommend this one every 10-14 days and follow the directions carefully.  Whenever you are messing around with chemicals its important to make sure you know how long to leave on.  

#2- Philosophy Microdelivery Peel- the active ingredient is Vitamin C which is amazing for skin.  This one is amazing for clearing up congested skin and helping with sun damage.

#1- Michael Todd True Organics Charcoal Detox or Pumpkin Masks- These things are AMAZING.  The Charcoal Detox helps with drawing out impurities and clearing out the pores.  The pumpkin one has an amazing enzyme that really turns over the top layer of skin.  Your skin really looks amazing after these masks!

Tools

This is a totally optional category but there are two things that I feel strongly that I need to give a shout out to!  They really have changed the way my skin looks and feels!

#2- The Michael Todd True Organics Eye-O-Sonic- this naughty looking vibrating device looks like it would be the biggest gimmick.  You put your eye cream on and then use this device to rub it in to absorb.  I decided to try the eye cream without for a week and then the eye cream with for a week.  By day three of using it- I noticed a HUGE difference in the fine lines around my eyes and the fact that my concealer wasn't creasing as much!  That's HUGE in my book.  After a month of using it- I can honestly say it works- it does help the eye cream sink in deeper and do its job better!

#1- Duh, of coarse its the Clarisonic!  LOL- Are your eyes/ears bleeding from hearing me write/type so much about this bad boy?  I know, I know.  Its not a cheap product coming in at $150 but I have had mine for nearly 5 years now and I don't know how I ever functioned without it.  I use the sensitive brush heads and I only use it at night time.  It is a gentle exfoliation that you do daily that helps your skin clear up, cells turn over more quickly and your products sink in deeper.  I cant rave about this enough- I LOVE it!

And there you have it- The Kristen Awards for Skin care!  What have you found that your skin cant live without?  

The Kristen Awards- Give good face!

THE KRISTEN AWARDS

GIVE GOOD FACE

I thought that it was about time that I tell you some of the products that I recommend to EVERYONE that asks.  Without hesitation- I repurchase all of these things over and over again.  I know a lot of these are not a shock if you follow my blog but I thought I would put them all together in one place!  Now because I don't want this to be like 20 pages long, I thought I would break it up into skincare, face, tools, eyes and lips.  Here are the Kristen Awards for face!

PRIMERS- I love me a good primer!  If you want your face to have extra staying power, the look of less pores and all around just look better- grab you a primer.  I have a couple to choose from in different price ranges to choose from.  As a note- I tend to favor non silicone primers.  I think that they sink into the skin better and wear better on a larger variety of skin types.  I will throw an honorable mention silicone primer in there on the end if that's what you are into :)

#1- Philosophy The Present- OK its not drugstore- its $20 bucks BUT its TWO ounces- which is over twice the size of just about any other primer I know.  Its spectacular- just let it dry for a SOLID 4-5 minutes before applying foundation- I cannot stress this enough.  This stuff aint coming off.  LOVE IT.

#2- Pixi Flawless and Poreless- I got a sample tube of this in my February ipsy.com bag and its become my fast grab everyday when- "I don't want to use my pricey stuff" go to primer.  It better for oily skin but it works decently at keeping under eye creasing to a minimum.  It is tinted but I would not consider it any sort of coverage.  If anything it dries to a blurry effect which is kind of cool if you are into minimal face products- like just concealer and powder.  You can pick this up at Target and is really great!

#3- Laura Gellar Spackle- This stuff is my new obsession primer.  Again- not drugstore but you can find it on the cheap on sites like Hautelook.com or even QVC!  I bought two 2 ounce bottles for $30!  I got one that was tinted champagne and has glitter and I got the original.  Far and away- the original is the one to pick up. 

Honorable Mention- for those who cannot live without the silicone primer- my favorite formula is by Palladio which is available at Sally Beauty Supply.  This stuff is MAJOR.  Its thick and silky.  If you like the Smashbox Photo Finnish Original- this is a pretty close duplicate at a fraction of the price.  

CONCEALER- Ah, how I love thee concealer   You fool everyone into thinking I have never had a breakout or a bad nights sleep.  There are a couple of different formulas that I would recommend for different places on the face.  Lets get into this!

Under- eye go bye- bye!
I have hereditary under eye discoloration.  Always have.  I fool everyone into thinking that I have slept well- and here are my picks for under eyes!

#1- Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer.  Wow that's a mouthful.  I LOVE this stuff.  Honestly- I have seen this in the store a thousand times before and it always grossed me out.  I'm not into gimmicky packaging that has applicators built right in.  Ewe.  Just ewe.  Well I got recommended to try it out so I did during a bogo sale- so I got it for less than $4!  Let me tell you- WOW.  Seriously- wow.  I have fine lines that love to collect and hold onto concealer like crazy and this stuff is SO thin, so moisturizing and it doesn't crease- BUT its super pigmented!  I just put it on the back of my hand and use my fingers but I know people who put it right on there face and then blend out with their fingers and no one has died of infection.  J/K- in fact the sponge tip is anti microbial- so you wont get all nasty like I'm insinuating.  

#2- It Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye.  Again- not a drugstore brand but you can find them discounted and I heard QVC has some good bundle deals.  When I tried this stuff I was a little taken a-back.  This stuff is THICK.  Like super pasty thick and I was FREAKING out that it was going to look cakey.  Boy was I wrong.  You only need the insiest little bit and pat it on and it just melts into your skin!  OH!  Did I mention its water proof and crease resistant?  Uh yeah- totally worth it.

Spot or blemish concealer
I use a drier formula on spots than I do under my eyes.  Its a preference thing- I like the way it works for me and my peeps.  Do you need separate concealers  not necessarily  I just prefer it.  

#1- NYX Above and Beyond Full Coverage Concealer in a Jar.  This stuff is FANTASTIC.  Its a little jar of complexion perfection.  Whenever I get the occasional break out or if I have anything else like bug bites or scars, I go to this stuff.  Its ridiculously amazing.  Oh, and its a steal at under $10!

#2- Mehron ProColoRing- Not drugstore and actually a little tricky to find but if you find it- PICK IT UP.  It is the MOST PIGMENTED concealer hands down.  It also comes in a color wheel with 5 colors so you can contour, highlight and conceal to your hearts content with this thing.  Its the most all around versatile concealer product I own.

All Around winner- If you only want one heavy duty mama-jama The Hard Candy Glamoflauge is the one for you.  This is a tube of imperfection.  It is a HEAVY duty concealer and if you have fine lines- it can settle- so make sure to set really well with powder.  Other than that- this stuff is concealer HEAVEN.  Oh, and its $5 from Walmart!!!

BB CREAM-  If you feel the need to jump on the BB cream wagon- here are your best bets.  Two of which are from Asian companies found on sites like eBay or sasa.com, one from the drugstore the other Sephora.  Don't get too invested in BB creams if you are wanting tons of coverage.  I will go from my least favorite to the best one!

#4- Dr Brandt Flexitone BB cream.  This one is amazing if you have darker skin since 99% of BB creams are for lighter skin.  This is one that changes color to match your skin.  I really like it BUT its the priciest in the $30 price range and can be found at Sephora.

#3-Revlon Photo Ready BB cream- this is the ONLY drugstore BB cream that I like.  Its not as good as the others but the only drugstore find and its on the cheaper side of things.  I like it as a primer too- put it under your foundation for an extra perfect finish.

#2- Skin 79 Super Beblesh Balm (pink packaging)- I really like this one.  I REALLY like this one.  The only down side is trying to get your hands on it.  Sasa.com and eBay are the best bets.  If you want a really good coverage and most true to what a BB cream is supposed to be- this is a great choice.

#1- Skin Food Aloe Sun BB Cream- OK- disclaimer- this stuff smells like roses.  LIKE A LOT.  BUT- EVERY SINGLE TIME I wear this- people compliment my skin.  Not- oh, your makeup looks great, but WOW- you have the most perfect skin I have ever seen.  You cant tell that this is makeup which is why its my #1 choice.  Again- finding it can be a bit tricky but its one that I hunt down again and again.

Foundation- OK, I really need to find a support group for the foundation addiction I suffer from.  I have SO many foundations which makes me qualified to tell you all about them.  I feel like this category there will be no surprises though- I talk about these three ALL THE TIME.

#3- L'Oreal True Match- this one is the greatest if you are a hard to find color.  They come in three lines- cool, warm and neutral.  You WILL find your color- from lightest light to dark.  Its between a sheer to medium coverage with one coat with a stipple brush.  It can be built up or you can just use your fingers which is my favorite way with this foundation.  

#2- Urban Decay Naked Skin- This is NOT drugstore, you cant usually find this on the cheap but if you HATE the feeling of foundation but want to look flawless- this is your foundation.  This stuff feels like I have nothing at all on my face.  Seriously- I LOVE how light weight it is.  The coverage is a true medium with a stipple brush and I don't like to use my fingers because its so thin.  It is TOTALLY build-able too.  If you have any trouble spots that peek out after one coat- just pat on another.  You wont look cakey AT ALL and it covers!

#1- Not a shocker at all to anyone who knows me- Revlon Colorstay- there are two formulas- one for dry and one for oily and the color choices are pretty amazing.  This stuff is thick but I find I only need the littlest bit to make me look PERFECT.  If you want budge proof full on coverage- this is your bad boy.  I prefer a stipple brush and this is a medium to full coverage in one coat.  I wouldn't recommend building it up too heavily or you will get cakey.  This is my everyday go to foundation and its my special occasion or photo friendly foundation.  

Powder- If you want to make sure your shine free and that your foundation stays in place all day- powder your face!  The problem with powder?  The wrong kind of powder can really make things look heavy, cakey and well- powdery.  Here are my three favorite babies!

#3- L'Oreal True Match Powder- this stuff is great.  Going along with the color matching perfection that the True Match line- this stuff has an awesome color selection.  Its finely milled and really sets your face.  It gives a bit of coverage without being too pigmented.  

#2- Laura Geller Balance N Brighten- This is marketed as a baked mineral foundation.  I don't wear it on its own- but over a BB cream or some concealer- its FLAWLESS.  The most awesome thing?  It looks straight up like skin.  Its not drugstore- you gotta find it at Ulta and its worth every single penny- and it lasts FOREVER.

#1- Rimmel Stay Matte Powder- I tried this on a total whim.  I was at Target getting pissed of about the price of translucent setting powders and stumbled across this.  I'm so glad I did.  This stuff is AWESOME.  The powder is milled super fine so it absorbs in and sets your face perfectly.  It also has a range from translucent to dark.  Its $4 and I cant live without it!

And there you have it ladies and gents- the Kristen Awards for face products.  Proof that you can find AMAZING products at every price point and you don't have to refinance your house for a decent face look!  What are your holy grail products?

Ivory 2-IN-1 Hair and Body!

So guys Influenster strikes again and sent me a complimentary bottle of the Ivory 2-IN-1 Hair and Body Wash.  I was tickled because we already use Ivory bars in our homemade laundry detergent and we use the body wash for the kids.  First off- I LOVE the smell of Ivory soap.  It is the quintessential smell of clean- like seriously.  It reminds me of my youth and going to grandmas house.  She always used Ivory bars in the bathrooms.  I'm also a huge fan because they don't add any dyes to their soaps and my kids especially have issues with soap and body wash with dyes.  They tend to get red bumps all over their bodies if they use things from Bath and Body Works or even the kids bubble bath that comes in all the cute bottles.  So the fact that Ivory is dye free is a HUGE score for us.  The last thing- its SO cost effective!  I buy a 6 pack of bars to put in my laundry detergent for under $5 at Walmart.  The body wash is in the $2 price range!  

Anyway- back to the actual review.  I should start out with saying that I have SUPER dry skin.  Seriously- I have alligator legs to the max.  I am always trying to stay away from anything too harsh or drying.  I exfoliate once a week to help with that too....sugar and olive oil together- AWESOME.  I was a bit leery of trying this because I am super choosy and tend to favor anything with "super hydrating" in the title or description.  I have to say- I REALLY like it.  It rinses super clean and doesn't leave a tight or filmy residue.  It leaves your skin smelling clean but the scent doesn't linger and compete with your lotions or perfumes.  Can I skip using lotion after this?  Sadly no, but honestly unless I use oil in the shower- I cant anyway.  

The second part is that this new formula is a 2-in-1.  Its meant to be a hair wash too.  This is where I just cant  give a good opinion.  I have dry, dry curly hair and I quit using sulfates or even shampoo....so I didn't let it go close to my hair.  Josh on the other hand tried it on his hair.  He is a Head n Shoulders 2-in-1 user anyway so he is pretty used to using this type of formula.  He said it was good as a shampoo.  There are conditioners in it but it isn't a conditioner.  The Head n Shoulders left his hair softer but the Ivory left it super clean.  He said that this would be a great one to use after digging in the yard or heavy sweating or just when your hair needs a good scrub.  He used some VO5 conditioner that we had in the shower on afterward and he said it was great!  

So there you go- What do you think of 2-in-1 products?  What are your hits and misses?  Have you tried the new Ivory re-launch or would you give it a go?

Skin Skin Skin!

OK peeps- as most of you who know me really well know- Im skin obsessed.  Seriously.  I am curious about every knew cleanser, toner, gadget, serum that comes out on the market.  I have been seriously fortunate to try a LOT of different brands out and find some winners that I mix and match together for my perfect skin regimen.  This has taken YEARS and let me tell you- it still changes on a week to week basis depending on hormones, weather, travel, and SEASON.  **side note- can we talk about how much I HATE my skins transition from winter to spring?  Seriously- I breakout on T- zone and it makes me NUTSO!**  

I thought that I would share a couple of things that I have found help.  I will mention specific products- but feel free to substitute what you find works for you.

First off- if you have combo skin- like REAL combo skin- treat your skin types differently.  I have SUPER dry eyes and cheeks and forehead and then an oil slick of a nose and chin.  IT. MAKES. ME. CRAZY.  I finally figured out a few years ago- after pro training and all that you HAVE TO treat the sections of your skin differently.  If I used a wash that was for normal or oily skin on my eye or cheek areas- I would be FLAKING.  If I used a moisturizer on my nose or chin that was made for my super dry patches- my face would look like the Valdez disaster.  

So I use my moisturizing cleanser on my main areas and and then my gel cleanser down the middle, followed with my clarisonic.  (you all KNOW how much I adore my baby- my clarisonic) Followed by a deep hydrating eye cream (Avon gold serum and eye cream), a light gel moisturizer down my nose and chin and then Embryolisse on the rest of my face.  Its a cocktail of perfection for my face.

Second- if you are wearing eye makeup- mascara, liner or even budge proof shadows- USE EYE MAKEUP REMOVER.  YES- you NEED it.  NO- Soap or cleanser is not the same.  Eye makeup remover breaks down the product on your eyes SUPER GENTLY and completely.  My favorite way is to use a makeup wipe and then pour eye makeup remover on it and use it that way.  Then when my eye makeup is gone- rub it on my face to remove the top layer of makeup gunkiness.  My favorite bargain brand is the Neutrogena Oil Free Eye makeup remover- and its seriously like $5 at your local Walmart.

Speaking of makeup wipes- makeup wipes are NOT a substitution for proper skin care.  That's like saying- I use hand sanitizer  why do I need to wash my hands?  DUH!  Wipes take the top crust of gunk off- they DO NOT cleanse your skin.  Then if you are using a moisturizer afterward- your just rubbing the crap back in your face!  Stop!   Just wash your face!

Stop over exfoliating   ESPECIALLY if you have acne prone skin.  The number one mistake I find girls with acne making is over scrubbing and over exfoliating   ESPECIALLY if you use a scrub.  If you are using a scrub- keep it to every 5 ish days.  If you are using a clarisonic or similar GENTLE facial brushes- you can get away with a scrub more like once every 10 days.  The more you scrub- the more you are micro-tearing your skin- giving bacteria a whole new place to infest.  Gentle is ALWAYS better.  Your face should be pink after washing with the increased blood circulation.  It should NOT be red.  If it is- you have gone too far.  

If you do things like facials or peels- expect there to be a recovery period for your skin.  DO NOT do a facial a day or two before a big event.  You can practically ensure a break out and if its a facial or a peel you have never done before- you might even have a reaction.  If you want perfect skin for a wedding or a big fun day- give your skin 5-7 days to recover from a facial.

Stop using toners with alcohol.  Another big acne mistake is toners with stripping alcohol.  Alcohol is SO SO SO harsh and drying to the skin and short of a medical procedure- should stay away from your face.  Read the label.  If there is alcohol- skip it.  Even better- skip toner all together.  Unless you LOVE your toner- they are kind of a waste and really don't do much to help the skin heal and rejuvenate.

Quit picking!  I know- its SO SO SO hard.  If a pimple has completely surfaced and is on its way to rupturing- you can go ahead and clean it out and spot treat it.  If its under there- leave it there.  ESPECIALLY if you have olive skin or skin that bruises or scars easily.  The zit may be gone in a week but the scar will last much more than that!     

MOISTURIZE!!!!  Everyday, twice a day- no exceptions!  Use a lighter version with SPF for the day and a richer more emollient one for night.  I know oil is a great moisturizer- aka- Argon,  Moroccan, Coconut- but if you choose to use those in the day- know that you may have an interaction with foundation.  Most foundations that are oil free will break down with oil on the skin- it can even break down primer.  So if you lube up with oil- read the labels of your products to make sure that you aren't running the risk of foundation melt down.  (it can even break down cream blushes and make powders wear uneven)

OK my lovelies- there you are.  The book of Kristen's Soap Box ( get it SOAP BOX- hahaha, Im so witty).  If you have questions- ASK!  Like seriously ask- thats why Im here!

My Deva-curl experience!

***DISCLAIMER- IF YOU DO NOT WANT TO READ A SERIOUSLY NARCISSISTIC ARTICLE ON HOW MUCH I LOVE MY HAIR AND HOW AWESOME IT IS- EXIT NOW.  YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED***

OK my lovelies- I have been pretty outspoken about my new found love for my curly hair and the journey I have taken attempting to figure out how to make it look the way I want it to.  My hair is curly- S curls and large ringlets.  People who have tight curls think I don't REALLY have curly hair and people with straight hair think I just don't flat iron enough.  Its funny to me because I never really realized that I indeed had curly hair until about 5 years ago.  I thought that I just had unmanageable  unruly, frizzy hair.  Well- I went for a haircut and I had a chin length bob at the time- and while having it washed- the stylist started giggling because he was surprised how much my hair curled when it got wet.  I never thought of it as curly before then- just stubborn and un-yielding.  

So over the last three years, I have quit coloring.  I have quit Brazilian blowing out, I have been reading about a thousand books, explored countless websites and basically grasped onto as much curly knowledge as I can.  Let me tell you- when you start out this journey from nothing- its kind of overwhelming!  I didn't know any one to turn to so the internet became my girlfriend who gave me advice.  I learned so much about caring for natural hair that I had never even contemplated before.  I felt pretty confident in my no shampoo, super hydrating hair care routine but I still felt like I just wasn't getting the results that I was looking for.  I have tried about 3 stylists over the last three years and honestly- I hated the results each and every time.  Why?  Because they cut my hair wet and in a style for straight hair- but when it was curly- my curls wouldn't keep a form, the ends looked stringy and there was so much bulk that my hair had no movement!

I have been using Deva Curl products for about 9 months now and really liked it.  Well- it was a happy accident that I found out that the creator had a salon that specialized in curly hair and had created a training for stylists to come and certify in how to properly cut and style curly hair!  So I found out that there is a wonderful salon here in Salt Lake named Aura- where all the stylists are Deva Curl specialists and the whole salon embraces the curly girls!  So when I found that out, I promptly went to the website and investigated all the stylists.  

I read the bios and descriptions of the stylists and decided Max was the man for me.  I booked my appointment and anxiously waited.  The day of my cut came along and I was NERVOUS.  For the first time practically ever- I had NO IDEA what to tell my stylist.  I met Max and he INSTANTLY put me at ease that this was going to be amazing.  I ended up telling him my journey of hair growing and quest for curls and then proceeded to tell him everything I liked and didn't like about my hair.  We agreed that the length had to come up about 3 inches to get rid of all the layering to create a good base.  He then told me that we were going to do uneven individual layers basically one curl at a time until we got the shape and the volume I wanted.

THEN THE MAGIC HAPPENED. He just had me part my hair and finger comb it into place and he started the two hour process of meticulously cutting one curl at a time.  I thought he was somewhat exaggerating and that I was going to be in and out in a normal hour time slot.  Nope.  He dry cut and layered my hair for about an hour.  Then he no-pooed (shampoo but not really shampooed) my hair, conditioned it, detangled it and the whole time taught me how to properly do it.  Who knew you could wash your hair incorrectly??  Well- I found out that I  had indeed been washing it too quickly, not putting enough conditioner on and rinsing it out too much.

He then styled my hair- and explained step by step what to do, what to use and how to know your doing it correctly.  Once my hair was styled he went back in and finished up cleaning up any stragglers that got missed in the dry cut.  I went home and almost got into an accident probably 5 times because I couldn't stop looking at my hair in the mirror.  Seriously- I know how ridiculous it seems- its a hair cut- whats the big deal?  But it IS a big deal to me!  I actually feel like I can get the hair that I have wanted!  That's pretty awesome and lets me honest- girls are emotionally tied to their hair.  Who HASN'T cried after a terrible cut?  

Anyway- I seriously can not recommend Aura, Deva Curl, Max- enough. Seriously- if you have curly hair and feel like you are in a hair rut or resigned yourself to having sub par hair- DON'T!  Find a stylist who can educate you along the way- THAT is what made it an amazing experience.  I felt like I could go home and know how to do it- and I did- and it worked!   Whatever your hair type- rock it with confidence!  

What I wore for my anniversary!

Here is the picture I am going to reference

 Hey y'all!  So I posted this picture on my facebook page and I somewhat laughed at the response because I feel like a 15 year old girl in it- taking a narcissistic picture in the bathroom mirror at a fancy restaurant!  I got a lot of really sweet feed back on it and first off- THANK YOU!  You are all FAR too kind.  Second of all- I was surprised because what I am wearing makeup wise in this photo is actually pretty simple and natural.  I wanted a glowing look that lasted but wasn't too made up.  I also wanted to stay away from anything too full on when it came to the lips because lets be real- I was kissing my husband and I didn't want him to look like a murder victim covered in red lipstick!

So I am going to give you a list of the products that I used and then go over HOW I used them- because I find that technique is actually more important than the products.  Be warned- its A LOT of stuff and A LOT of steps.  So don't get overwhelmed thinking you have to do ALL of it to get a similar effect.  And as always- ask questions!  That's what I am here for!

Face Products:
Laura Gellar Spackle Primer
damp Beauty blender sponge
Revlon Colorstay Foundation in Combination/Oily in the color Buff
Mehron ProColoRing Concealor Wheel
Elf HD Setting Powder
NYX Taupe blush to contour
Tarte blush in glisten
NYX blush in Angel
Laura Gellar highlighting powder in Portfino
Real Techniques Brushes: Expert Face Brush, Powder Brush
Coastal Scents Angled Blush Brush

Eye Products:
Urban Decay Primer Potion in Eden
Urban Decay Naked 2 Pallet and I used the colors: Bootycall, Chopper, Snakebite and Busted
Urban Decay 24/7 liner pencil in Zero
Maybelline The Falsies Volume Express in Blackest Black
L'Oreal Voluminous Million Lashes in Blackest Black
Revlon Brow Fantasy Crayon and Gel in Dark Brown
Real Techniques Brushes: Shading Brush, Domed Shadow Brush 
Coastal Scents 250 Blending Brush
Random no name pencil brush 

Lips:
Nyx Xtreme lip Cream in Pinky Nude
Nyx Glam Lipgloss Aqua Luxe in Beat Goes on

How I do what I do:

-On a clean dry face I put on Some Laura Gellar Spackle Primer on making sure to really get the under eye areas and the areas that I have big pores- Let that sit for a minute to let it really sink in
-Dampen Beauty Blender sponge- make sure its not WET- just damp
-Dot Revlon Colorstay all over my face and then use Beauty Blender to bounce all over my face to evenly distribute and stipple product on rather than rubbing it on
-Use Mehron ProColorRing Concealor Wheel in lightest  color under the eyes and then used the color that matched my skin  to blend away any bemishes- go back over with beauty blender to make sure that it blends super seamlessly
-Use the powder puff that comes with the Elf HD setting powder and GENEROUSLY apply powder over anywhere I put concealer or anywhere I dont want creasing or oil popping up- just press it on and leave the extra to sit there.  Just let is SET without moving it or taking off the excess
-While powder is setting- start on the eyes- begining with the brows- I used the pencil side of the "brow fantasy" (ps- can revlon think of a cheezier name????) to fill in sparse points on the outer half and then I brushed through them with a spooly and then set them in place with the brow gel side
-I used UD Primer Potion in Eden to even out the color of eyelids and to prevent creasing and to keep my shadow looking true to color
-Using the RT Shading brush, put the color Bootycall on the inner 1/3 of the lid and in the inner tear duct area
-with the same brush- put Chopper on the outer 2/3 and blend the two colors so that they just flow into each other
-Using the Coastal Scents 250 Blending brush, start with a bit of Snakebite and start slowly adding color to your crease.  Just a little bit at a time.  Then using the same brush- add Busted to the outside corner to create depth
-Take your no name pencil brush with Busted and rub it into your outer bottom lash line
-Use a CLEAN RT dome shadow brush to make sure there are no harsh lines and that the colors blend together seamlessly
-Use UD 24/7 liner pencil in Zero on top lashes only and smudge out with the RT shading brush or with a pencil brush.  If you want more liner, do it again- line lashes and smudge- It creates a really smoky liner and not a super harsh line
-Take RT powder brush and knock off all the extra powder that has been hanging out on your face- it will also knock off any extra shadow that fell down while doing your eyes
-Use the RT Expert face brush and the NYX blush in Taupe to contour under your cheekbones, under your jawline, your hair line or anywhere else you need or want a natural shadow to be created
-Using the Coastal Scents Angled Blush Brush, dust the Tarte blush in Glisten through the apples and blending into the contour color and blend the Angel color towards the center of your face to keep it from being shiny
-Top your cheekbones and your brow bones off with a light dusting of the Laura Gellar highlighting powder
-Mascara time! First coat with the Falsies, second with Million lash
-Put on your Pinky nude lip creme and top off with the Beat Goes On lip gloss
-If you REALLY want things to stay put, top it all off with a light coat of makeup setting spray- I used the Urban Decay All Nighter

OMG- That was A LOT but ask and ye shall receive!  haha, Again- you don't have to have THE EXACT same stuff- I just gave you a list of what I did.  If you have any questions- don't hesitate to ask.  This wasn't the most budget friendly look as I used A LOT of products BUT I have them- so I use them.  I never go out and purchase something new because to be honest- my kit rivals Walgreens at this point :) There are some AWESOME dupes for some of the name brand products I used for this look and if you are interested in what they are let me know and I can steer you in their direction!  Hope your having an awesome Friday!!

MY SKIN!!!

Oh my gosh ladies and gents- can I tell you how much I am ready for winter to be over and not just because I'm tired of cold weather but I am DONE with what it does to my skin!  My legs somewhat resemble a crocodile (and not in a high end Prada kind of way).  My lips have split, and are in a constant state of chapped-ness.  My face is- dry.  And I already have dry skin so I am talking like the Mojave on my face.  SO I decided my skin care routine needed some supplementing so I thought I would share what is working for me.

Scrub a dub dub
OK- So I have written about my love affair with my Clarisonic facial brush like a thousand times before, but I will do it again.  I got new brush heads a couple of weeks ago and fell back in love with it even more.  It keeps the top layer flakiness at bay.  I have been using Philosophy's Purity cleanser and Cetaphils cleansers.  I feel like the Purity is better when I have a TON of makeup on and the Cetaphil is better when I am not trying to get a layer of spackle off my face.   I am also doing a SCRUB every two ish weeks- with the Mary Kay Micro-dermabrasion stuff.  That renews and gives the healthy glow back.

Mask me
I have been using a mask FAR more often as of late.  I'm usually not a HUGE fan of masks because lets be honest- with three kids, and two jobs and one house and a million baskets of laundry- I don't get much time to do them.  I have been using the Mary Kay Hydrating mask and this trial one by Mario Badeski- the orange one.  I don't know how much I believe in them- but I figure they cant hurt.

Moisturize
OK- so this is where any and all cheap products have flown out the window.  I had to change it up to my pricey stuff and I'm sorry in advance   I am the Budget Beauty Mama and all- so I feel somewhat like a traitor.  Oh well.  I received a free sample of Keihl's 24 hour moisturizing oil and Josie Maran's Morrocan oil and I have been wearing those under ALL my moisturizers.  So for the eyes I'm going back and forth between Olay eye cream and Avon gold packaging eye cream.  For face, I have been using Embriolysse (which is a french brand which is HARD to get your hands on-even online) and Elizabeth Arden's eight hour cream on my lips, cuticles, knees, elbows, and any other dry rough spots.

As you know, I'm not a huge toner fan- that's why I have skipped over that.  And honestly- I try to keep the process minimal so I will actually do it.  I am still using my Neutrogena Oil Free Eye Makeup Remover by the bottle full in conjunction with the Neutrogena Hydrating Makeup towelettes to remove the eye makeup and the top layer of junk I put on my face.  Again- towelettes are NOT a replacement for washing your face.  They are super convenient and are good at removing the surface stuff but they cannot and will not clean down deep.

It sounds like I spend a ton of time but truth be told my evening process takes about 5 minutes- TOPS.  If I scrub and mask, it obviously takes more time- but just makeup removing and washing and moisturizing takes but a few short minutes.

I am thinking of splitting my Glaminars up into smaller sections- that way if you are only interested in a few steps- you can come to only those pieces.  Im thinking skin care, give good face, windows to the soul and finishing touches.  What do you think?  Obviously the classes will be shorter and cheaper than if you came to a full on Glaminar- so thats a bonus too.  Give me some feedback!  I want to do something that y'all would be interested it!  Hope life is unicorns and rainbows for you all!!
BBMama/Kristen