Mirenesse Cosmetics iCurl TwinHeated Lash Curler + Secret Weapon iCurl 24Hr Mascara Opens Eyes Even With Short Lashes to New Extremes! (Review)

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**

Secret Weapon iCurl 24Hr Mascara

I have always believed in the benefits of using an eyelash curler.  Having shorter lashes, I found a crimp eyelash curler indispensable for opening up my eyes before applying mascara.  However, I had never tried a heated eyelash curler until Mirenesse Cosmetics included their award-winning iCurl TwinHeated Lash Curler and Secret Weapon iCurl 24Hr Mascara in a box of products to review.

You want to apply mascara after you use a heated eyelash curler.  If you tried applying mascara in the same way using a conventional crimp curler, the force of it would damage and pull out lashes.  On the other hand, the heated eyelash curler is designed to work harder using the warmth and mascara together as a curling catalyst.

The first thing I did was to reach for the Secret Weapon iCurl 24Hr Mascara.  This is a unique memory driven formula to work specifically with their lash curler for boosting the curl while lifting lashes up to 90% higher and locking curl for the most time.  This mascara has an excellent shaped brush patterned to fit like a dream between individual lashes and extend over the complete lid from end to end without any gaps.

I applied the mascara on my lashes first vertically and then horizontally from the base to the tip so everything was covered.  Finding that this formula  didn't clump or make the lashes still together while working was wonderful as well.  One coat of this deep black mascara was perfect for daytime.  Despite stubby, little lashes, this product did manage to open my eyes more than I ever expected.  Now, I was really getting excited because my lashes need coaxing with my crimp eyelash curler before they do that. 

Smiling at those results, the first thing I did was to insert two "AAA" batteries so I could operate the iCurl TwinHeated Lash Curler since it did not ship with batteries.  Before you begin, you need to allow it to heat first for about 10-15 seconds once you turn it on.  In order to tell if it is hot, I checked the color of the pad.  Instead of red, the pad turns clear when it is ready to use. 

Mirenesse Cosmetics iCurl TwinHeated Lash Curler

Secret Weapon iCurl 24Hr Mascara

After I got that sign, I slipped my lashes inside between the gap at the base.  When my lashes were properly positioned, I moved over the silver button, which controls the twin pads lifting and held steady for about 15 seconds or so.  Later, I slide the button down to free my lashes.

As I examined my work, my eyes looked so beautiful with a black, more upward curling fringe of lashes.   It was hard to believe how well the iCurl Lash Curler complimented the Secret Weapon iCurl 24Hr Mascara when it comes to transforming short lashes into more lush, curling ones that you can barely recognize. 

 iCurl TwinHeated Lash Curler

After putting on my new mascara, I wiped the pad of all traces of black left behind with a damp cotton square before storing the iCurl Lash Curler away. 

The rest of the day, I just enjoyed looking more glamorous.  Even when I forgot that I had mascara on and rubbed my eyes, I didn't smudge, flake, or end up with black rings around my eyes.  The weird part is how  just rinsing away with warm water is sufficient enough to get such stubborn mascara gone in a flash.

Glamorizing this way does require extra effort.  You do need to wash the mascara brush after use in sterile saline or boiled and cooled water as well.  Nonetheless, when you see the difference using it, then you don't mind.  

My advice, ladies, is to head to Mirenesse and check both products out.  The Secret Weapon iCurl 24Hr Mascara retails for $35.96 and the iCurl TwinHeated Lash Curler goes for $44.96.

Review: L'Occitane en Provence's NEW Cèdre & Oranger Eau de Toilette for Men From La Collection de Grasse Has Refreshingly Unique Appeal!

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**

L'Occitane's Cèdre & Oranger Eau de Toilette

Men take note!  L'Occitane en Provence has added an exciting eau de toilette to their La Collection de Grasse that deserves your attention.  Cèdre & Oranger that recently launched late 2013 is what I consider a wonderful citrus aromatic fragrance for those that are adventurous at heart by perfumer, Karine Dubreuil.

The fragrance has a freshness to it with an underlying woodiness from top notes of orange, bergamot and pine needles.  At the same time, there is an aquatic effect coming through due to a lifting of the crisp citrus carrying the pine with it in the breeze, only that pine has traveled far from the forest to the sea.  

As Cèdre & Oranger develops in the heart with notes of spicy cardamom, red berries and Virginian cedar, the fragrance does an exceptional job of stimulating the senses with a mint type of coolness to it that is manly and full of energy.  This is intriguing, but a confident mix, almost daring you to try to ignore it would be a waste of time.   

In the base, Cèdre & Oranger takes on a new depth that is so sexy.  Like a brooding hero, the fragrance begins to taunt, smoldering with sensuality from notes of warming vetiver and musk.  

My guy was hooked immediately on this scent.  He described it as something different with that coolly refreshing twist to the woods and citrus, definitely classy. 

Though I am not a man, I loved my guy wearing Cèdre & Oranger because it was expertly crafted for today's modern man with how vibrant, but refreshing it was with a sensual undercurrent that was very appealing.  

The 2.5 oz. bottle of Cèdre & Oranger Eau de Toilette retails for $75.  The fragrance is also available in After Shave Balm, Soap, and Shower Gel.  Do visit L'Occitane en Provence and check it out.

Meet Your New Sultry Winter Scent--L'Occitane en Provence's Ambre & Santal Eau de Toilette (Review)

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**

Ambre & Santal Eau de Toilette

L'Occitane en Provence welcomed another beautiful addition to their La Collection de Grasse in 2013.  Ambre & Santal Eau de Toilette is a surprisingly soft woody oriental fragrance with a haunting warmth and sophistication from perfumer, Karine Dubreuil, that will brighten any cold day.  

This is a fresh take on spice that you will want to wear forever from the gentle way this lovely amber fragrance develops.  

With opening notes of bergamot and rosemary, you can't help but become fascinated from the beginning.  

The fig leaves and rose notes in the heart give it a delicious, almost gourmand quality lending some sweetness to that warmth that is luscious as well as intriguing.  

As it dries down with sandalwood, cedar, labdanum, and vanilla, the woody base turns creamier and so sensual as it melds with your body chemistry, making it even more enticing as it effortlessly seduces with elegance.

I loved the complex layering that went into this fragrance.  The traditional spicy notes are tempered against the other notes in such a way the fragrance takes on a unique sheerness that is exceptionally alluring.

If you tend to gravitate toward to a spicy fragrance and want something totally unforgettable, then you owe it to yourself to stop at  L'Occitane en Provence and sample Ambre & Santal.  The 2.5 oz. eau de toilette retails for $75.   

Red Apple Lipstick Company's Fab Fall/Winter 2013 Collection of Mineral Eye Shadows (Review) + Photos & SWATCHES!

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**

Starting on the left is Red Apple Lipstick Company's Sugar & Spice, then Sage Rage, Secret Garden, VooDoo, Pixie Dust, with Clean Slate on the right.  Next to it is the Twosie Compact.

Red Apple Lipstick Company makes beautiful healthier lipsticks, glosses, lip liners, and lip care products.  However, this certified vegan company also makes nontoxic formulations of gorgeous eye shadows.  They kindly sent along their Fall/Winter 2013 collection with a compact to store for this review.

I must confess the first thing you notice is the how stunning these matte shades are.  The colors, which I also swatched for you are:  Sugar & Spice (soft cinnamon with beige); Sage Rage ( taupe with yellow-green); Clean Slate (medium gray); Pixie Dust (whisper of pink); Secret Garden (forest green), and VooDoo (medium purple).  

From left nearest my wrist to the right are: Sugar & Spice, then Sage Rage, Secret Garden, Pixie Dust, Clean Slate with VooDoo on the right.

These are cruelty free eye shadows that have no talc, parabens, gluten, or soy that went on smoothly and lasted for hours without creasing or fading.

The shades were fun pairing up for different looks.  Usually, I am not one that typically wears green eye shadows, but Secret Garden (for lid color), Clean Slate (for the crease), and Pixie Dust (for the highlight) was quite attractive with my dark brown eyes.  Another excellent combination I loved was VooDoo (for the lid), Sugar & Spice (for the crease) and Pixie Dust again (for the highlight shade).

Here is Sugar & Spice on the left with VooDoo on the right.  This really is a pretty effect when blended.

The shadows were individually packaged singles that I just popped in place in their Twosie Compact that fit two at a time.  It retails for $6.95. You can buy other sizes of their compacts to handle up to nine shadows for $20.00.

If you are trying to find safer cosmetics that are made in the United States, then I suggest visiting Red Apple Lipstick Company.  The shadows shown retail for $18.95 each.  Do become acquainted with their fine products because I know you like them once you do.

*Disclaimer:  A free product was provided to facilitate this review--not my opinion.*

You'll Love Mineral Fusion Natural Brands Line of Loose Powder Foundations! (Review)

Disclaimer:  This post is based on a free product provided by a company as a press sample so that I may offer my own  opinion, which may be the same or differ from yours.

Mineral Fusion

I can tell you about quite a few companies making excellent loose and pressed powder foundations with beautiful coverage.  Some of those brands, however, have something you may not want like an extensive list of chemical ingredients.  Nonetheless, you have another option without toxic ingredients like Mineral Fusion Natural Brands and their Loose Powder Foundations.

You don't have to worry about parabens, talc, artificial colors, fragrance, or gluten in their formulas.  These lightweight powders adhere to your skin like a silky veil with only natural age defying and skin smoothing ingredients such as pomegranate, white tea, red tea, sea kelp, licorice root, aloe vera, cucumber, and vitamins C and E.   They also have natural UV sun protection in this mineral formula, which is another plus.

I received the line of five different shades of this foundation.  

From left to right is Warm 1, Warm 2, Olive 1, Cool 2, and Neutral 2 in the photo.

My best match for my light skin with yellow undertones was Olive 1.  This stuff really helps make your pores almost disappear once I applied.  

Here is a photo of my ideal shade, Olive 1.

For those with allergies that are sensitive to flying powder, I have a tip to cut down on that problem.  Use a cotton ball and press the powder in first before holding your breath and brushing away the excess.  

Using this Loose Powder Foundation, my face became flawless and the little imperfections were hidden without any mask of heavy makeup for a more natural appearance that lasted for hours.

Earlier, I reviewed the Pressed Powder Foundations and was impressed how exceptional the product was.   The Loose Powder Foundations are just as amazing for delivering outstanding results.  In fact, I am torn between which form I prefer!  

Honestly, you should try both of these products and you will thank me when you look at your face.  Either form retails for $29.99.  Find them at Mineral Fusion Natural Brands or Whole Foods.

*Disclaimer:  This is my own honest opinion.  A free product was provided solely to facilitate this review.*

Rimmel London Show Off Lip Lacquers (300 Out of This World and 601 Light Year) Review + SWATCHES!

Disclaimer:  This post is based on a free product provided by a company as a press sample so that I may offer my own  opinion, which may be the same or differ from yours.

Rimmel London

Rimmel London's Show Off Lip Lacquers, better known as Apocalips  overseas, is now available on our side of the pond here in the United States.  These new lipstick offerings really pack spectacular color like liquid lipsticks while giving you a lacquer like shine with a very creamy feel.  I already shared a few of the fourteen tubes with you, but was so taken with them that I have two more of these tempting lippies to tell you about.

On the left is 601 Light Year with 300 Out of This World on the right.  601 looks like it has more red to it in the picture, but in reality it has a bit more of a plum overcast to this nude.  Both are striking shades.

601 Light Year is a sensuous medium toned nude without being too pale or fearing that the brown-pink might wash your complexion out.   As to 300 Out of This World, this is cooler medium pink that leaves your lips with a beautiful shimmer and was terrific for setting off a light complexion like mine.  I think most colorings could wear either easily.  

Judge for yourself because I am modeling both for you in the next photos.

This first photo is  of 300 Out Of This World.

Here I am modeling 601 Light Year.

This is a highly pigmented liquid lipstick so brush some of the excess off the doe-foot applicator inside the tube before withdrawing it since you don't need that much to apply.  Read my earlier review for further details and swatches.

You will want to look into these Show Off Lip Lacquers from Rimmel London! 


*Disclaimer:  This is my own honest opinion.  A free product was provided solely to facilitate this review.*

Review: Mally Beauty Evercolor Starlight Waterproof Eyeliner 5-Piece Collection (Dark Chocolate)!

Disclaimer:  This post is based on a free product provided by a company as a press sample so that I may offer my own  opinion, which may be the same or differ from yours.

Mally Beauty Evercolor Starlight Waterproof Eye Liner Pencil

Though eye liner pens and liquids can give you more dramatic results, I prefer the softer effect of pencils for daytime.  However, eye liner pencils are not created equally.  Some can be too hard to spread and tug that delicate skin of the eyes.  Then again, I also have found others that were softer than you liked and smeared like crazy.  Thank goodness, Mally Beauty came up with her Evercolor Starlight Waterproof Eye Liner Pencil because it is the perfect middle ground for defining eyes beautifully.

I received the Evercolor Starlight Waterproof Eyeliner 5-Piece Collection in Dark Chocolate.  What I really liked was how this deep brown pencil spread without the need to exert pressure on your lids for creating as thin or as thick of a line that you need.  This is a pencil you work with ease and count on for wonderful staying power.  It can smudge slightly through the coarse of a day, but for the most part I thought it brought out my eyes just the way I like with more subtle softness.

Mally's Most Wanted 5-Piece Starlight Eyeliner Collection comes with a sharpener in either choice of dark chocolate or black.  This set retails for $33 and is definitely worth checking out on QVC or Mally Beauty.

*Disclaimer:  Free products were provided to facilitate this review--not my opinion.*

Beautify As a Hollywood Star Might With Advanced Mineral Makeup Pressed Powder Compact Foundation (Taylor)--(Review)

Disclaimer:  This post is based on a free product provided by a company as a press sample so that I may offer my own  opinion, which may be the same or differ from yours.

Advanced Mineral Makeup Pressed Powder Compact Foundation (Taylor)

Recently, I got acquainted with Advanced Mineral Makeup from TV and film makeup artist, Annie Mayo.  The first cosmetic I ever tried from the line was a Pressed Powder Compact Foundation in (Taylor) and must admit it did a fine job of evening out my complexion and polishing me off with a semi-matte finish that lasted through my day.

I had been expecting a compact of Angelina, but accidentally received Taylor.  Taylor happens to be the lightest shade in their line.  However, I am glad of the mishap because this color was darker than the fair and suited my light warm skin quite well.  I do suspect Angelina may be closer to a medium shade than more a light-medium.  Do keep this in mind when making a color selection.

As far as the product goes, this was a very nicely formulated 100% natural mineral pressed powder that delivered beautiful light to medium coverage, depending on how much you apply.  What else is great is that you can use this pressed powder as a foundation, concealer, and powder in a one step product.  You could probably get heavy coverage if you build further on it, but I had no need because the amount I used provided enough velvety coverage to perfect and hide my minor complexion flaws.  

There are no dyes, skin clogging ingredients, perfumes, talc, or parabens to risk skin to possible irritation, only healthier ingredients like vitamins.  Instead, you get natural sunscreen protection from zinc and titanium dioxide in a lightweight powder.  

Furthermore, this product  won't fade or disappear on you because it is water resistant and transfer proof.

Nonetheless, I did think the Pressed Powder Compact Foundation was a wonderful product.  It retails for $38.50.  Do check it out.  I know that now that I have tried this product, I am curious to try more from Advanced Mineral Makeup!  

*Disclaimer:  Free products were provided to facilitate this review--not my opinion.*

NEW From L'Oréal Paris--Magic Nude Liquid Powder Bare Skin Perfecting Makeup (Nude Beige) Review + Swatches!

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**

L'Oreal Paris Magic Nude Liquid Powder Bare Skin Perfecting Makeup

When I was invited by SheSpeaks to try the new Magic Nude Liquid Powder Bare Skin Perfecting Makeup from L'Oreal Paris and tell them what I thought, I was eager to see how I would like it.  I requested the product in Nude Beige #316 that has SPF 18 protection and am happy to report it was a great match for my light warm skin.

This foundation appears a bit thinner in consistency than some L'Oréal Paris foundations I have used in the past, but it glides on wonderfully.    However, the real test is what happens once this product goes on.  I found that you had to work fast to apply it because this one dries rather quickly.   I got lightweight coverage that did dry to a nice powder-like finish.  In fact, I liked how this foundation seemed to blend so well into my dry skin without weighing it down. 

Swatch of L'Oréal Paris Magic Nude Liquid Powder Bare Skin Perfecting  Nude Beige Makeup

I didn't need to touch up with any sort of translucent powder from morning until nearly dinner.  On most occasions, I follow liquid foundations with a light sweep of loose translucent powder and then touch up later if needed with the pressed form to look fresh.

I just wish the bottle would had come with a pump dispenser to lessen the risk of contamination.  Instead of using your finger to get this foundation out, I recommend keeping a few cotton swabs handy to stick in the bottle to pick up the foundation.  Blend or press those dabs in quickly with your makeup sponge or fingers and you will keep the foundation better protected from bacteria.

I thought Magic Nude Liquid Powder Bare Skin Perfecting Makeup was a good product at a reasonable price for someone that doesn't need heavy coverage.  Visit the L'Oréal Paris website for more information or find this product at your local drugstore.

*Disclaimer:  Free products were provided from SheSpeaks and L'Oréal Paris to facilitate this review--not my opinion.*

A Mascara Beyond Your Wildest Dreams--Ellis Faas Cosmetics E401 Black Mascara! (Review) + SWATCHES

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**

Ellis Faas Cosmetics E401 Black Mascara

Some women are lucky to be born with incredibly long, thick lashes.  I wish that I was one of them, but I was born with short, stubby little things passing themselves off as lashes.  Therefore, I depend on a mascara to create that beautiful illusion for me.  One fantastic answer to my prayers arrived unexpectedly in a box of products from prestige brand, Ellis Faas Cosmetics with their E401 Black Mascara.

No exaggeration here when I tell you this little silver bullet tube containing this magical formula can seemingly do it all for your eyes as it separates and lengthens every last lash, regardless of how tiny.  

Pulling out the long, thin wand and watching how this rich black formula grabbed onto my lashes and built them up fairly quickly without clumping and irritation excited me.  Two coats are usually my limit unless I want to risk clown eyes that look like thick, dry prongs jutting out from your lids.  But I can take my lashes further with E401 and love the look of three coats.  

Here is a swatch of Ellis Faas Cosmetics E401 Black Mascara

The next time I tried this mascara on, I curled my lashes first.  Oh, my goodness, my eyes looked stunning with even longer, thicker glossy lashes from the help of my eye lash curler.  

I even forgot I had mascara on and rubbed my eyes.  Guess what?  E401 Black Mascara did not smudge and give me black rings around my eyes.  Equally impressive was it lasted all day for me without flaking or bothering my delicate allergy eyes even in the midst of the ragweed season.

Highly acclaimed Dutch makeup artist, Ellis Faas, really solved the frustrating problem of sparse lashes with this fabulous mascara.  Ladies, try this E401 Black Mascara and you won't be disappointed.  A tube retails for $34 at the Ellis Faas website.

*Disclaimer:  Free products were provided to facilitate this review--not my opinion.*

Discover Sweden's Xlash Eyelash Enhancer for Growing Fabulous Lashes!

*This is a sponsored, compensated post written by me on the behalf on Xlash.  However, all thoughts expressed are strictly my own.*

Exlash

What woman doesn't want the longest lashes possible?  Of course, you can try lengthening mascaras or false lashes to achieve that goal.  However, despite how satisfied you may be with those choices there is one drawback.  They are temporary methods and once removed takes you back to your original look.  On the other hand, there is Xlash Eyelash Enhancer, a permanent solution so you keep those longer, dreamy lashes on always regardless of a bare face.  If a natural ophthalmic solution could simplify the process of wearing heavy eye makeup and pasting on clumsy fake lashes, wouldn't you want to try it and save yourself that hassle?  

Xlash Eyelash Enhancer

Let me you tell more about this Swedish wonder that already has taken that country and Europe by storm with 110,000 satisfied customers.  This is a dermatologist-tested product that you apply only at bedtime to your freshly washed face to line the root of your upper lashes.  The average woman most often will see a beautiful transformation within four to six weeks of regular use.  I am happy to share this exciting product with safe active ingredients from herbs and extracts known as Xlash Eyelash Enhancer is now finally sold in the United States!

This synthetic-free, natural product works by reprogramming your lashes, extending how long it takes to replace them in their normal three month growing cycle.  Simultaneously, it also will help spur the growth of individual hairs. 

Check out some real results with these before and after shots using Xlash Eyelash Enhancer.   A remarkable difference, wouldn't you say?

Models wearing Xlash Eyelash Enhancer

While you are growing your lashes, you can still wear eye makeup.  The choice is up to you whether you will want to bother with other products once you get the results you are after.  

Your results could be dramatic like some customers who were able to reduce their daily applications to twice or three times weekly.  

If used once a day as directed, the 3ml tube of Xlash Eyelash Enhancer will last about two to three months before you would want to order another.  Otherwise, your lashes will revert back to their former, slower growing cycle when discontinuing use.  

The best part is that you don't even need a prescription. Still, if you have any eye condition or severe problems with allergies like I do you might want to consult your doctor first.  

Typical side effects include itching and redness of the eye.  The area around the eye could discolor over time, but it reverses itself once you discontinue use.  Though less common, a chance of permanent iris change from light eyes to brown exists.  

Now is the perfect time to try Xlash Eyelash Enhancer, ladies, because its normal $79 price for the 3ml tube has been slashed to $49 with free shipping worldwide.  This deal sounds great, but you can take $10 more off that sale price now until October 1, 2013 when you include the coupon code, XLASH250 at checkout to sweeten the offer more. 
   
In fact, the company is so confident you're going to love the product that they offer a 100% money-back guarantee.  So what are you waiting for when huge, tempting lashes await?

Connect with Xlash on their website and Facebook! 

*Disclaimer:  This is a sponsored, compensated post written by me on the behalf of Xlash.  However, all thoughts expressed are strictly my own.*

Play Up Your Lips in Style!--NEW Rimmel London's Show Off Lip Lacquers (Review)--Photos--Swatches!

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**

Going from left to right is 600 Nude Eclipse, then 101 Celestial, 500 Luna, 200 Comet, 501 Stellar, and ending with 701 Stargazer on the far right.

Rimmel London recently introduced a new lipstick line to the United States market with their Show Off Lip Lacquer.  This product originally launched over the pond as Apocalips.  These lippies have the intense color of a liquid lipstick but with the feel of gloss for getting cozy in style while making a statement.

I got to test out six of the fourteen shades to share with you with this review.  These include such appealing colors as 200 Comet (a pink-brown nude); 500 Luna (a ripe peach-pink dripping with appeal); 101 Celestial (a gentile medium rose-pink laced with a trace of plum); 701 Stargazer (a shimmering beige-bronze); 600 Nude Eclipse (a pale beige nude), and 501 Stellar (bright and almost neon pink-red that is ready to rock).

Once that sponge tip applicator touches your lips, the pigmentation is not some sheer color with all the slick shine of a typical gloss, but a full blast lipstick coverage.  

Furthermore, these lacquers keep very moist on your lips and will stay that way for hours until you eat some off.  I skipped lip liner to see if they would spread, but they passed the test and didn't feather.

I modeled all six shades for you next.  

What do you think of 500 Luna?

This is 600 Nude Eclipse.  The color was way too pale for me.  

Take a look at 701 Stargazer.

How do you like me in 501 Stellar?

Take a check of 101 Celestial.

Here I am modeling 200 Comet.

My favorite shade was 101 Celestial, a dependable everyday pink you always need.  On the other hand, my least favorite was 600 Nude Eclipse because it looked ghostly on me.  Though unflattering on yours truly, I am sure that others with different coloring would find it attractive.  However, I didn't care for my resemblance to the undead.

The next time you go cosmetic shopping make sure to check the Rimmel London Show Off Lip Lacquers since I'm sure you'll like them! 

*Disclaimer:  This is my own honest opinion.  A free product was provided solely to facilitate this review.*

Look Effortlessly Polished--Check Out Mineral Fusion Natural Brands Pressed Powder Foundations (Review)

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**

Starting from left to right is Mineral Fusion Pressed Powder Foundations: Cool 1, Cool 2, Neutral 1, Neutral 2, Warm 1 and ending with Warm 2 on the right.

If you are trying to get away from toxic ingredients that may be in some cosmetics, then Mineral Fusion Natural Brands is one company you should seek out.  A great introduction might be with one of their excellent pressed powder foundations that I have been using lately.

You will find no parabens, talc, artificial colors, fragrance, or gluten in these silky powders.  These lightweight powders have only natural age defying and skin smoothing ingredients such as pomegranate, white tea, red tea, sea kelp, licorice root, aloe vera, cucumber, and vitamins C and E.   Yet, they also have natural UV sun protection in this mineral formula.

The line has a beautiful range of thirteen shades to suit both warm, cool, and neutral complexions.  

My perfect match with my light with warm undertones was  Olive 1, which I will show you in the next photo.  

Olive 1 is on the left followed by Olive 2 and ending with deeper Olive 3 on the right.

After I brushed some on and looked at my reflection in the attached mirror of the compact, I loved how this powder instantly sealed up my pores and smoothed my skin in a few quick sweeps.  The shade itself couldn't have been closer to my own natural coloring.  Olive 1 was undetectable when compared to the color of my neck and looked natural, not powdery.  

Here are the three Warm shades with Warm 1 on the left, Warm 2 in the middle and Warm 3 on the right.  Warm 1 was also fine for my coloring.  The Warms would be work for anyone with yellow tones in their skin.

I was also impressed by how many hours you can wear this powder foundation and still look good.  It didn't cake, fade, or leave you hunting in your cosmetic bag to constantly retouch.  Good work, Mineral Fusion Natural Brands!

Those with darker complexions might like Deep 1 on the left and Deep 2 on the right.

These pressed powder foundations retail for $29.99.  Find them at Mineral Fusion Natural Brands or Whole Foods.

*Disclaimer:  This is my own honest opinion.  A free product was provided solely to facilitate this review.*

Jurlique's Purely Bright Radiance Serum Delivers a Remarkable Brighter Change Before Your Eyes! (Review)

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**

Jurlique's Purely Bright Radiance Serum

I really do have very nice skin except for a mark left from a pimple in addition to some fine creases and two deeper wrinkles.  When I reviewed Jurlique's Purely Bright Cleanser, I really thought that product was excellent for helping with another mark I believed was caused from the sun.  I was very impressed with that product; however, I fell head over heels in love with what their Purely Bright Radiance Serum did for my skin next!

This is a potent serum that when used daily moisturizes while it brilliantly helps fade dark marks before your eyes.  With ingredients like hyaluronic acid, turmeric extract, calendula extract, and Jurlique's exclusive VitaBrightKX formula of kakadu plum extract, citrus unshiu peel extract, African Birch extract, and vitamin C, this is a safer alternative without hydroquinine for lightening.  Trust me, this will amaze you how it will even out your complexion and renew skin radiance.

Despite using this product for a month now, I saw a gorgeous change quite soon.  With just a few times that I applied Purely Bright Radiance Serum my mark was hardly visible.  I couldn't imagine how glowing my complexion began to look.  Every time I gave myself another dose brought me closer to skin perfection until I gained a prettier texture and beautiful clarity.

I highly recommend Jurlique's Purely Bright Radiance Serum and the Cleanser because these don't disappoint.  Both of these skin care products are now permanent beauty staples of mine.  

If you want to witness your own transformation, get these products.  The 1-fl. oz serum retails for $58 and the 3.3 fl. oz. cleanser goes for $25.    

*Disclaimer:  Free products were provided to facilitate this review--not my opinion.*

Some Helpful Strategies to Fight Cellulite and Increase Circulation!

Despite being slim, a woman can still suffer from cellulite.  In fact, 90% of women have it somewhere on their body.  Our unique female hormones, especially estrogen plays a large role in why we are especially cursed with this problem.  Of course, other factors can cause cellulite such as diet, inactivity, metabolism, dehydration, and heredity, which can also contribute to those trapped toxins under our skin.

There are two types of cellulite to deal with.  The first is the softer variety of fluid fats, which is easier to get rid of.  However, the second type is more of a challenge to solve.  This is the firmer, more condensed cellulite that builds up beneath the skin to give those budges and dimpled skin when squeezed.

Though as hopeless as it may sound, there are things we can do to help fight cellulite and increase our circulation.  Making a habit to use these tips on a daily basis may not completely help you eliminate every trace of cellulite, but it will definitely improve your appearance.  Equally important, these suggestions will give you a better chance of preventing new cellulite from forming.

For starters, you should invest in a body brush and start dry brushing your legs, thighs, and backside daily before bathing.   Another is thoroughly massaging those specific areas to help with the circulation.  Pretend you are kneading bread dough when you are grabbing and working that skin to get that blood moving.  A rolling pin is another thought to help you do the job.  Always use upward movements in the direction of your heart when brushing, rolling or working your hands.

Following that intense stimulation to those areas, a good idea is to give the legs, thighs, and your bottom a treatment with a scrub to further dislodge those trapped fats.  After all, you already started the process of exfoliating and moving the cellulite. 

Sitting too long doesn't help either.  Try to get up about once an hour or every so often and just walk around the room or office for as little as five minutes can help.  

Crossing your legs is bad news.  You are stopping circulation and contributing to the formation of cellulite by doing so.  Remembering to avoid that position will help.

Caffeine and carbonated beverages are no friends of the cellulite prone.  These drinks have the ability to restrict blood flow so those toxins stay put in your system instead of circulating.  Water and beverages like herbal teas and fruit juices are safer bets.

Getting more exercise is important.  In fact, the harder your workout, the more help you have to banish that harder, compact cellulite.  Strenuous activity will speed up your metabolism and boost your circulation effectively.  Perfect to speed up your heart rate and tone you at the same time are activities like brisk walking and running.  Dancing is another enjoyable way to get that exercise.  Whatever your preference the important thing to remember is not to overdo unless you want to risk injury.

Niacin (vitamin B3) helps with circulation.  Though it is a water-soluble vitamin and will not be stored in your body, you still need to be careful not to overdose.   Nonetheless, you could be lacking this important vitamin to help flush those toxins out. The recommended daily amount for a woman is 16 mg.  Do not exceed 50 mg. or you can harm your organs.  The wisest course is to check with your doctor about a possible deficiency and an appropriate safe dosage.  

Look for vitamins that have an industry standard for some form of self regulation such as having the USP (United States Pharmaceutical) seal to best protect yourself.  You may think the government regulates the vitamin industry, but just because you see brands sold on store shelves where you shop doesn't mean they are as safe as you believe.  Be a cautious consumer and read the label.  Otherwise, you have no idea what sort of can of worms that you could open if you choose badly.

I wish that I could say I am cellulite free, but I am working on it and am seeing progress.  What I have shared here are ways that have helped me battle cellulite--and I hope also will help you as well.