MY MAY IPSY BAG!

 Here is an overview of what I got in my Ipsy bag!:) 

Though I didn't get everything I wanted this time, I still wasn't totally disappointed. 

If you don't already know what Ipsy is, it's a monthly subscription.

It's $10 a month and you get 4-5 deluxe size samples or full size products. Ranging from makeup, skin care, perfume and makeup tools. I've been a member since last November and I've loved every bag. 

Want to join? Click here.

 "It's a month of crisp air, vibrant flowers, and fresh Glam Bag products! Our May "Beauty's Fresh Picks" Glam Bag is filled with fabulous finds perfect for freshening up your current beauty routine! Getting your beauty to bloom all month long will be as easy as lying in the warm grass and basking in the sunshine. Where are you taking your fresh picks this month?"

Could "Fresh Picks" be a better theme this month?!

As I transition into being a vegetarian I've opened my mind to more veggies and a healthier lifestyle. When I think of fresh picks, I imagine all the fresh fruit and veggies welcoming the Spring and Summer:) 

Let's...... break it down!!!!

So this month we got a canvas and I must say it's my favorite by far! The bag itself is a cream color with pretty light green vine print on it with the Ipsy name printed on some of the leafs. 

The reason why I love this bag most is because it's canvas. I LOVE canvas! I like that it isn't stiff, you can fit more things in their comfortably without making it look weird. It shapes to what you out in it instead of having to shape your stuff to the bag. If they could always be canvas, I'd be happy:) 

"This award-winning, salon treatment alternative buffs skin, helping to diminish the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and acne scars."

 " Enriched with natural astringents Lime and Lemon Peel plus antioxidants Grapeseed and Vitamin E, this pro-grade treatment retexturizes skin, leaving it soft, smooth and younger-looking. May also be used on your hands, elbows, knees, heels or any part of the body to promote soft, smooth and healthy skin"

This was one of the products I actually that o got. I'm a HUGE scrub fan. I'm oily and even more so this time of the year and scrubs like this do wonders for me! 

So, it's no surprise that this was the first product I tried, hah. I took a scoop with my index finger and started to work this first on my chin, the sides of my nose and forehead. 

Now, the thing about this is that it's SUPER gritty. Kind of like sand at the beach, so if you have sensitive skin use a light hand. 

I worked this onto my more needed areas with medium strength focusing on the parts of my face where I know it needed it the most. 

This is to be used twice a week on a wet face. 

Want it? Get it here for $29.25! So worth it!

So, at first I didn't think I was going to dig this very much just because I have A TON of neutrals, but then I swatched it and I think I like it.
I love the bronze color on the right. It's super pigmented and adds a perfect pop in the mid lid for a simple look. The color on the left makes for a pretty brow highlight, down the bridge of the nose and on your cupids bow.

Now, I can't say I'm 100% correct, but I believe this is a sample from the Enlighten Eye Brightening palette which contains four shades in full size.

Find the full size on their website at Pacifica.com

"Formulated with the most advanced and high-performance ingredients available, Hang Ten High Performance Sunscreen defies the norm. Oxybenzone, Paraben, Retinyl Palmitate, and synthetic fragrance free,
Hang Ten High Performance Sunscreens offer options for every application and use."

Unlike a lot of people who were unhappy to receive this, I was hoping to get this. Haha.
I've never used to brand, but had heard good things about.
Though I haven't been out in the sun much this year, I have started jogging about 4-5 days a week. So this is vital right now!:) 
I loved the consistency. It's super creamy.. almost a thick milk kind of.. does that make sense? Lol.
All in all... I love it!!!:)
You can get it here!:)

"Achieve beautiful balance with this delicate hydrating moisturizer. Infused with our unique, exclusive peptide complex, Lotus Lupine 5, Vitamin E and our secret blend of French Marine Plants, skin becomes dewy and supple - pure harmony."


This was my first miss for me... :( 
Not only do I have a lotion I already have for my dry skin, but I did not like this at all. 
I used it after I showered and  I didn't like the scent at all. 
I also didn't like the texture.. It felt a little oily and that is no bueno for my skin:( Oh well. What did you think of it? 
Do you like it and want the full size. 
Visit their website here!

"Exfoliating beauty mask .
Instantly renews skin, leaving it refreshed and clean after only a few minutes.
This gel mask helps promote a smooth and clear complexion for a post facial feeling.
Take It OFF is quick and easy to use, so exfoliating you can feel beautifully refreshed,radiant and ready to go in just a few minutes."


I actually wasn't looking forward to this and it turned out to be another product where I should have tired it before I judged.. Haha
I liked it!!
It made my face feel super replenished!
Great Summer product. It didn't feel harsh at all. 
The only thing I would have to say about it that I didn't like, was when taking it off it was hard to get it all off so I washed my face to take off any remaining mask. 
If you have sensitive skin, I think this is one you don't have to worry about too much. It felt great!!!:) 

Get it heyhoney.com 



Well, that's it!!!! I hope you enjoyed your Ipsy bags!!:) 
I ALWAYS look forward to these! I can't wait to see what June holds! 
What are you hoping for? 

Want to join? Go check out Ipsy and you won't regret it!:) 

Come like my Facebook page and always stay updated on my latest blog and future giveaways!!!:) 

 

IPSY MAY SNEAK PEEKS!

As I get back into the groove of working on blogs and doing school, I thought I'd start with sneak peeks! Who doesn't love cheats into our bags?;) 

(Image found on Google)

May is full of flowers and color and so far these sneak peeks are reminding me what May feels like!

SNEAK PEEK #1

 

"May Sneak Peek #1: Let your beauty bloom with one of these soft, fresh shades to cheer up your spring style."  (From Ipsy's Facebook)

Through the plastic in the middle you can make out that this product is by Pacifica!

Now, if you haven't heard of or used their products they're 100% vegan and cruelty free! My two favorite things!:) Don't you wish all products could say that? 

I believe these are duos possibly made just for Ipsy or something new coming out. 

SNEAK PEEK #2:

"May Sneak Peek #2: Time to head outdoors and enjoy beauty al fresco. Don't forget to put one of these pretty picks in your picnic basket to stay safe in the sun."

(found on Ipsy's FacebooK) 

First I found was this sunscreen! Usually I don't care for sunscreen samples, but Summer approaches and we ALL need this! 

"Formulated with the most advanced and high-performance ingredients available, Hang Ten High Performance Sunscreen defies the norm. Oxybenzone, Paraben, Retinyl Palmitate, and synthetic fragrance free,
Hang Ten High Performance Sunscreens offer options for every application and use." 

(found on Hang Ten website)

Second image in this sneak peek is another sun protector! This one calls more to me and I hope to receive this one! Which do you want more? 

 "Sans Tan has UVA and UVB protection and  is formulated using all natural, organic and non-GMO ingredients, which makes it safe for the whole family, including small children. Pop a few Sans Tan minis in your bag today!"
(found on their website)

SNEAK PEEK #3:

 

 "May Sneak Peek #3: A lovely bouquet of beauty awaits you this month. Which blooms are you excited"(found on Ipsy's Facebook)

1. Tini Beauty  Nail Polish. 
2. Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Matte Bronzer
3.  Olive Natural Rosemary Lip Balm
4.  Calvin Klein  Endless Euphoria 
5. Boo boo cover up Concealer 
6. Hey Honey Exfoliating Honey Peel Off Mask
7. Lulu Blossom  Dreamsicle Body Balm
8. Revelon  ColorBurst Balm Stain

SNEAK PEEK #4:

"May Sneak Peek #4: The freshest picks, the prettiest products! One of these beauty finds will be yours to enjoy all spring"

 The first one I looked for I couldn't pin point which one it was exactly, but here is the link to the Balanced Guru hair treatment oils. 

"The Rock-A-Wave Curl Cream is the ideal formula for curly and wavy hair. Argan Oil provides deep conditioning and smooth separation without weighing hair down. Keravis Protein gives hair renewed vitality by nourishing and strengthening the hair cuticle. The result is rockin’ curls and waves."

  

"The Therapy Session Hair Mask deeply conditions, repairs and strengthens dry and damaged hair. Argan Oil nourishes and revitalizes, while Keravis Protein drastically increases hair’s strength and elasticity. The results are hydrated, soft and manageable hair."

"The Rock-A-Wave Curl Cream is the ideal formula for curly and wavy hair. Argan Oil provides deep conditioning and smooth separation without weighing hair down. Keravis Protein gives hair renewed vitality by nourishing and strengthening the hair cuticle. The result is rockin’ curls and waves."

 All three are found on eva nyc.com 

 "Stay protected with pure flower power. Our unique peptide complex, Lotus Lupine 5, and Hydra-Shield Complex boasts superior full-spectrum sun protection in a light-weight nourishing moisturizer. Skin is pampered and protected against premature aging caused by the day's rays."

Found on: purlisse.com 

Out of all of these, I'm hoping for the Therapy Session Hair Mask!:) What are you guys hoping for?

 SNEAK PEEK #5:

"May Sneak Peek #5: Garden party or relaxed picnic, one of these beauty finds will keep you pretty and polished for any outdoor soiree this month."

"Our popular Pro Blending Fluff Brush is ideal for shading and blending like a professional. The soft, oval shaped, goat hair bristles allow you to soften the look of powder or cream shadows by blending harsh lines."

I know a few people don't like to receive brushes in their bags because they received brushes before, but as I mentioned a blog back, I LOVE getting brushes! You can never have too many!:)

I'm not 100% on this one. I know the original picture looks darker, but the shape matches.

 "The Classic Blender Crease Natural can be used as an all-over eye shadow brush. The soft, tapered natural hair bristles allow you to blend eye shadows using a back and forth motion on the eyelid and crease. This brush also helps you achieve a more intense color by applying your favorite eye shadows wet."

Both pictures and descriptions are found on Coastal Scents :)

"Derma e Microdermabrasion Scrub refines and restores the skin's vitality to improve the tone and texture. The scrub features a crystal blend system that removes dead skin cells and eliminates excess oil shine. Kaolin clay helps draw out impurities for smoother, clearer skin. Lemon peel oil enhances the skin's clarity for a brighter, even complexion."

Found on: DermStore.

"Avène Thermal Spring Water soothes, softens and calms skin. Spray anywhere using a convenient travel-size bottle (50 ml / 1.76 oz.)."

Not too sure how I feel about this. Personally, I probably wouldn't hope for this in my bag. 

What are your thoughts? 

Find it here: Avène 

"Oil-free formula with Vitamin E
Conditions as it cleanses
For all skin types
Aloe vera, cucumber, chamomile, marshmallow & tea plant botanical extracts"

"Effectively wipes away makeup from eyes, lips & face
Dermatologist-approved sensitive formula
Free of parabens"

Both of these would make me happy;) 

You can find them here, La Fresh 

"This premium ultra thick night cream will moisturize, nourish and prepare your face for the challenges of the next day. Infused with pure honey straight from the beehive and the finest skin nutraceuticals found on earth."

Found on: Mee Beauty 

 

Still not sure which Balanced Guru serum we could be getting. It's been on sneak peeks twice, but I would hope not to get two of them:/

 I've looked every where for the "Bare Foot Exfoliating Polish", but I can't find it anywhere!! I've checked with other bloggers and they can't find it either:/

 What are you hoping for the most?  

 

 

SNEAK PEEK #6

 Last sneak peek is always the bag!!!:) 

And who the heck is excited for this bag as I am!! And a CANVAS BAG! Ahhh! 

Haha:) I'm  a little too excited for this, but this bag is really shaping up to be a pre- Summer bag! Full of skin protectors and creams! Loving it! 

This bag is too cute! Wouldn't you agree? 

I love the simple decal of the green leafs on the white canvas back and the green zipper:) I can't wait to get this!!!

Let me know what you're looking forward to most!:) 

 

 

 

APRIL BIRCHBOX REVIEW!

If you don't already know what Birchbox is, it's a $10 a month subscription. It includes makeup, skin care, nail polish, hair care, healthy snacks and more! This is only my third box and despite all the negativity I read sometimes, I've quite enjoyed this box so far. 

This months box was "Rainy Days". As you can see I decorated my box to fit the theme;) Some of us, (like me) are fans of rainy days and this box was made for us. If it rains, pour yourself a glass of wine and enjoy your box of goodies!

Here is the description on their website:

"Hands up if you secretly love a gloomy forecast. April showers may bring May flowers, but they're also a blissful excuse to stay inside, doing all those things that fall by the wayside when it's glorious out. This month, we're embracing that rainy-day mentality: Why not shut the blinds and curl up with a good book, or spend a luxurious afternoon playing with beauty samples? We'll show you how to waterproof your beauty routine (in case you get caught in a downpour!), share some floral mani designs to try when you're stuck indoors, and give you tips for frizz-proofing your hair. You'll also find some bright ideas for how to spend the next rainy day—there are many more waiting for you at Birchbox.com/rainydays. Turns out a little precipitation isn't so bad after all." 

 Here is an overview of my box. As I mentioned before, I quite pleased with this box. I felt like it had all the right elements based on its theme. So without any more hesitation, let's begin our break down!

As usual on top of the box the first thing you see is your card. It has a bit of a box description on the front along with a picture of the months theme and and the back side, (which I love) is a more detailed list of each product and its full size cost.

After removing the tissue, one of the first things on top was this KIND bar. Though I've heard of this brand of snacks before I hadn't actually ever tried them. I was astonished to read such negative response on BB's Facebook page on this. I guess people expect more beauty items and less food, but I on the other, was looking forward to this.. Haha. I'm not always a huge fan of "healthy bars", only because a lot of them have a weird taste and they're hard to finish. After the first bite of this, I fell deeply in love. The taste of this is SO DELICIOUS!!!!! It's a taste of sweet maple, but salty and it leaves you wanting more. What I love even more about this, (especially being plus size) is that it's gluten free and all natural! Definitely worth purchasing full size! 40 bars for $28?! Yes please!!!!

Next, I'm happy to say I received the notorious Beauty Protector, Protect and Detangle Spray. As happy as I was, I was a bit skeptical... I've tried a few detangle sprays before and each one has made my given my head a rash:( I gave this a chance because it is paraben and sulfate free. I'm glad I did. After towel drying my hair I applied this. It made my hair incredibly soft and usually my hair tangles a ton after the shower, but with this I was able to easily brush out all the tangles. I love it. I even ordered a full size and best of all, no head rash!!!!:) 10/10

 

Sumita is a brand I've never heard of before, so I'm always thrilled to get products I actually know nothing about. Here I received a black eyeliner. Are any of you picky when it comes to black pencil liners too? I know I am and if there's anything new to try that makes me nervous it's a new eyeliner. Opening this up the tip decided to break off.. I was so unhappy, I thought for sure I'd have to toss it. I gave it a shot,  sharpened it and  swatched it! Loved it! Haha.. It glided on my hand so smoothly! After a minute or two of setting I attempted to smudge it and surprisingly didn't do much! So, lesson learned. Be more open to new eyeliners! What did you think of yours?

Can I just start by saying I'm not a fan of receiving polish in my subs. I NEVER get colors that suit me. Do you? I had cheated and looked online to see what I would be getting.. haha. I wasn't thrilled about the color, because I feel like light colors don't look good on my skin tone. Once again, I judged too soon. I really liked the finishing look. This is two coats and with some brands I feel like three is necessary. Another score!:) Chipping wasn't an issue either, I believe it lasted a full seven days! When I went back for touch ups it seemed the consistency had changed to being sticky. Ugh.. Did that happen to any of yours? I have to give this a 7/10. Not too sure if I would re purchase this though. Tell me your thoughts on it:)

For someone who doesn't like perfume samples, I was looking forward to this one. 

"Take a deep breath and relax with this sophisticated scent, which helps us tap into our inner New Age gurus. Harvey Prince designed the mood-elevating blend of exotic essences and oils to counteract stress and keep us zen throughout the day. It’s the fragrance equivalent of yoga class."

Found on their website. 

Reading that, I thought this would be a refreshing scent. Something calm and relaxing. Except, I didn't like it:( Personally, I felt like this was an "old woman" scent. If that makes sense. I just wasn't a fan. It smelled a little musky and the scent was really strong. Oh well.. you win some and you lose some, right? 

What did I learn in April? Don't be too quick to judge. haha:) 

What did you guys get in your box? What did you think of it? I'm so sorry for how long it's taken. I've had a lot of other things going on. 

Next, working on my FEED box from Birchbox!:) 

 

Guess what time it is!!!???

Ipsy time!!!:) 

If you don't know what Ipsy is, it's a $10 a month subscription plan. It's filled with makeup, makeup tools, skin care products and much more:) You get 4-5 deluxe samples to full size products in each bag.
For $10 a month, It's a steal!
Here is what I received for April! Let's break it down!!

Every month in addition to your products, you receive a small makeup bag. This months theme was "Beauty Rocks"!

"What songs are you singing to today? Life is a dance floor, so why not live it up, sing out loud, and shake them hips?! This month, we're celebrating our unique beauty to the sound of tunes and festivals that fill the spring air. So, whether you're chilling in a campground or spinning in a ballroom, all of your April "Beauty Rocks!" products will help your lovely look become a hit!" 

This bag is a dark purple with a vinyl record player on it! So chic'! 

First thing I pulled out was this brush from Coastal Scents. I was surprised to see how many people were disappointed with this item. For me, one can never have too many brushes. This is a medium sized eyeshadow brush and perfect for packing on any shadow!This retails for $2.49! I've heard so much about their products, but have yet to purchase anything from them. I immediately noticed how dense it was and it's also incredibly soft. Overall, I give this brush a 10/10. It definitely does its job on packing on shadows. I might need to quickly use my discount!;) Let me know what are some of your favorites from them. 

 Who the heck wouldn't want this in their bag!! Urban Decay has been a long time favorite brand of mine! Their quality is always outstanding and so worth the price. Here I received a sample sized eyeliner in the shade, "Black Velvet". I own perversion and zero and have yet to try this. Fist time trying this, I LOVED it! One little thing though, it seemed a little on the dry side. Not sure if it was just my sample or this product is like that. Regardless, it will be put to use:) And for the finishing feel of this, it was like a matte finish.

Next, is a sample from dr. brandt. I haven't tried this before and I've only heard little about them. So, I was open to trying this out. I have sensitive skin on my face so I have to be careful trying new  products out. To my surprise, my face and I both enjoyed this item.

As for texture, it was pretty gritty. I felt like I was rubbing sand all over my face, haha. Once I had washed it all off my face felt soft but slightly red. (which can probably come from any gritty scrub) 

I'll give this product one more try, but personally I don't think I need this. It might be just a tad too harsh for my face.  I use an all natural exfoliant, it's a lot let harsh and it's a liquid so all I do is rub it over my face on a tissue. Let me know what you think about this.

Here I have a Starlooks lip liner in, "Naked". When I first saw this in my Glam Room I thought, "ugh. I'm never going to use that" only because I'm not a huge lip liner fan. When I got it though and swatched it I decided I really liked it, haha:p

Instead of lining my lips with this I decided to use this as an all over lip color before my lipstick. I actually loved the way that it looked. The quality of this liner is awesome! It's so smooth going over the lips and the payoff is bright! This retails for $14 on their site. More than than the bag just by itself! The color is neutral and can be used for any skin tone. Hmmm.... I might need to go check out their site.. ;) 

Last, I received an eyeshadow from Elizabeth Mott in the shade, "Champagne". I LOVE this!!!! I'm all for nude shades, because it's mostly what I wear and especially in the Summer I like wearing this kind of shade. I love the sheen finish to this and the pigmentation is outstanding!!! There's hardly any fallout and with a primer this lasted me from mid day till night time with no problem.
Never heard or tried this before, but I like it and I'm glad I had a chance to try it.

For my finishing look I used the eyeshadow as an all over shade, Urban Decay's liner for a nice thin line and the lip liner as an all over lip color.

 I love this simple, but chic' look. It's good for any day or even a simple night look. 

I hope that if you receive Ipsy that you enjoyed your bag this month just as much as I did:) 

Always stay tuned for giveaways and my blogs by liking me on Facebook here: The Mind of a Makeup Addict!!:)