Illamasqua Nail Varnish in Purity

Disclaimer: The product mentioned in this post is given to me. I am not affiliated with the company nor getting paid to advertise the product. This post is written with my honest opinion.

In my August 2012 GlossyBox, I received Illamasqua Nail Varnish.

L'Oreal Voluminous Million Lashes in Black Noir

Disclaimer: The product mentioned in this post is given to me. I am not affiliated with the company nor getting paid to advertise the product. This post is written with my honest opinion.

I don't remember if I won this in a Facebook giveaway or another giveaway. All I remember is that it came in the mail.

Stila Set & Illuminate Baked Powder Trio

Disclaimer: The products mentioned in this post are bought with my money. I am not affiliated with the companies nor getting paid to advertise the products. This post is written with my honest opinion.

In July, I went to the Stila warehouse sale. I did a post on it. You can check out my haul if you like. I'm so glad I went because I got such a good deal! I thought they would only sell the discontinued products, but they actually sold products that are being sold. One of the products is the Stila Set & Illuminate Baked Powder Trio.

Geo Angel Blue Circle Lens

I received circle lens from Angel Contacts. When it comes to circle lens, I'm a newbie. I've had colored contacts in the past. I tried green and own grey for a year. This gave me a great opportunity to try circle lens! :)

They came in a clear plastic container with Tiffany colored paper. The Tiffany colored paper matches with the website.

I love the color and it definitely fits with the trend of this year!

Product Review: Geo Angel Blue Circle Lens

Where to purchase: angelcontacts.com

Price: $25

Made in Korea

Description from the website: The GEO Angel Circle Lens series offers maximum definition for your eyes, for a bold, beautiful look.

Can you say royalty? Flaunt these luscious royal blues the next time you see your prince charming.

Lense Information:

Diameter: 14 mm

Base curve: 8.6 mm

Center thickness: 0.04mm

Water content: 38%

Lasts up to 1 year after opening.

Thoughts: If you can tell, I was stoked to receive circle lens! I've heard about circle lens for years, but I never thought about getting them. Given this opportunity, I actually spent some time on the website looking for the colors I wanted. I even searched online to see what they look like on people. Let me tell you the pictures of people wearing them weren't that great. :X One reason I chose this contacts is the model, Asian girl, wearing it convinced me. It look great on her!

The circle lens come in a cute bottle in Tiffany colored bag. I love how cute everything was wrapped up!

If you're like me a first time user, I was clueless how to open the bottle. Thankfully, it came with instructions. To be honest, I still made a mistake opening the first one. After that, I was a pro.

It came with their own case. The only thing I was shocked to see was pink not blue, but still it's cute nevertheless! Only thing I get confused about is seeing the colored on the left side. I'm so used to colored side on the right side since most of my cases are that way.

Here's the circle lens in the case. It's royal blue with black on the outside.

Let me tell you out of the two I received, I was most excited to try this one! I have never tried blue and always loved blue eyes. I was not too sure what I would expect, how it would feel, would I be able to focus, and so on. I had a lot of questions and it was answered as soon as I put them on.

First of all, they're extremely comfortable. It felt like I was wearing normal contact lens. I don't know why but I had a concept that they were not comfortable. I've heard people say only wear them for 6 hours and no longer. It felt like I was wearing normal, clear contacts. I do have to say they were easy to focus compared to the colored contacts I had in the past. I think the clear circle in the center is wider than the colored contacts. With the colored contacts, it took me a month to go pass the color and be able to focus only in the center. I had no issue with this one.

Secondly, I never had an issue with lens drying out my eyes. I'm one of those people who can wear contacts for hours and hours without an issue. I did not have an issue with circle lens either.

I've been told by people that my eyes look bigger. Isn't that the concept of circle lens?!?! So that's a good thing. I wanted the huge, anime eyes and I got them with these. :)

The only thing I was sad is that it actually looked black on me. People could only notice the royal blue if they look at me outside in the sun. I guess it all depends on the colored of your natural eyes. I have extremely dark brown eyes.

Here's how it looks on me. Overall, I was extremely happy! :)

Pros:
* Cute packaging; Tiffany colored theme.
* Comes with a case.
* Instructions how to open and use.
* Model modeling the lens.
* Makes eyes bigger.
* Comfortable.
* Easy to focus.
* Does not dry out my eyes.

Cons:
* Darker than I thought.

Would repurchase: Yes!
Rating:  4.5/5 Tobey's Paws

Disclaimer: The product mentioned in this post are given to me. I am not affiliated with any company nor getting paid to advertise any products. This post is written with my honest opinion.

b.liv Mask in Bright Is Right

Disclaimer: The products mentioned in this post are given to me. I am not affiliated with any company nor getting paid to advertise any products. This post is written with my honest opinion.

I was fortunate to receive different masks from b.liv. This will be my first sheet mask review from b.liv, and I'm so excited to tell you about it! Before I review the sheet mask, let me tell you a little about b.liv. I guess you could say b.liv is a daughter company of Cellnique. Cellnique is a brand that is located in Asia, but anyone can purchase them online. If you're curious about Cellnique, I have reviewed some products from them so feel free to read them. Now going back to b.liv, here's what they represent.

'LIVE the moment! b.liv is about confidence as we are seeking to inspire young people to believe in themselves and motivate them to make a difference not only in their skincare but also in their lives. The name "b.liv" is not just a contraction of word "believe" but also a union of the words "be" and "live" aiming at forming a life style motto that encourages b.livers to "live" the moment.'

I took this from their website, because they said it well! :)

August Favorites and Finished Products

I did not do one for the month of July. For that reason, I'm going to combine the finished products together.

August Favorites

MAC Snowglobe Eye Shadows Palette in Warm: I know most people did not like their holiday palettes, but I actually like the packaging. That might be an influence why I got this palette. :X I think it's simple and just plain fun! I like playing with the snow globe on top. Only exception it can get boring with one type of silver glitter. I think they should had put a mixture of different designs like silver stars. Anyways, it should not be about the packaging but what's in the inside. I know I'm one to speak. :X I've been reaching for this a lot this month because I found one eye look I really liked.

Clinique Chubby Stick in Woppin' Watermelon: I reviewed this product and this is my favorite color from the bunch. It leaves a glossy look on my lips, no glitters or sparkles, hint of color, and moisturizes your lips.

Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat: I've tried other top coats and I keep coming back to this. It's that great! :)

Aveeno Clear Complexion Daily Moisturizer: Who would have thought I would love a moisturizer for acne-prone skin! It's on the thicker side but I can see why. Since acne-prone skin uses so many products that dry out their skin, this will be great. Not only is it great for acne-prone skin, but it's good for dry skin as well.

b.liv Dullness Cessation Bright is Right Sheet Masks: They're drench with serum and I can see immediate results right afterwards. My skin looks amazing the day of the sheet masks, as well as, the morning after. I look glowy, refreshed, and just younger looking.

August Finished Products

Reviva Labs Stem Cell Booster Serum: I reviewed this product and am sad to see this go! The only thing I did not like about this product is the scent, but it did not bother me after some usage. You hardly even notice it. The reason I loved this product so much is that I hardly see serum works, but this worked wonder on my me. I saw better skin as time went on, but it could be a combination of products. My skin just looked good and even my friend I knew since elementary even said it.

Would repurchase: Yes!

Caudalie Vinosource Quenching Sorbet-Creme: I received this from a giveaway and glad I did. It's perfect for the summer weather. It's quick and easy to apply. You just put in your hand and apply it like a serum. Not only is it easy, but it smells great and it's hydrating!

Would repurchase: Yes.

Simple Sensitive Skin Experts Cleansing Facial Wipes: I got this through Target Beauty Bag. It's been awhile and for that reason, I don't remember how I felt *sigh*. That's why I have to blog about a product right away and go back to my references or else I will not remember. :/ I remember thinking this was good.

Would repurchase: Yes.

ESL Essence Mask Pack in Aloe: I received this from my sister-in-law with another mask pack, Coenzyme Q10. I like this better than the Coenzyme Q10. It has more serum that I can work with, but even with that it was still on the dry side. I saw results afterwards, but not the morning after. Therefore, it only worked for one night.

Would repurchase: No!

Ulta Nail Polish: I don't even remember the nail polish color. Sorry about that! I received this free long time ago from Ulta and used it almost every summer on my toes. To be honest, I'm not a big fan of Ulta nail polishes or at least this one. I have not tried other colors. They're streaky and do not apply evenly. For that reason, I only did it on my toes so people could not see the details. I also thought the brush were too thin to do a quick apply. I did not completely finish the product, but it got gunky and overflowed out of the bottle. The brush also came apart. For that reason, I threw this away.

Would repurchase: No!

Aveda Hand and Body Wash in Rosemary Mint: If you do not know Aveda, they're plant based company. I'm not a huge fan when it comes to scents of plants. They just don't smell that great to me! Since I got this sample, I wanted to try it. I thought I would be okay with rose, but the mint was overwhelming. Other than the scent, it's actually a good body wash.

Would repurchase: No, because of the scent.

Aveeno Positively Nourishing Energizing Body Lotion: I reviewed this body lotion and my opinion is the same since I started using it. I love it! It's extremely moisturizing but I would not recommend this if you have extremely dry skin for the winter weather. The best part is the smell. It's heavenly! :)

Would repurchase: Yes!

Bath & Body Works Body Spray in Carried Away: I received this sample and loved it for the summer season. It's light and refreshing. It does not overwhelm my noise which is great!

Would repurchase: Yes.

Wow that was a lot of finished products! Then again it was for two months. ;)

I'm trying to make this blog more personal. The key word is trying. If I go to places and recommend them, I will try my best to post it.

Last weekend, I went hiking at Escondido Canyon Park in Malibu. This was the first waterfall. I must say it's wasn't much but I heard it's really nice after the rain. If you're into hiking and want to see waterfalls, you should definitely come here.

Then we went to Geoffrey's Malibu and I had Lobster Quiche. It was really good except for the brown sauce around it. I wasn't too keen on that. :X

Geoffrey's Malibu

27100 PCH

Malibu, CA 90265

Disclaimer: The products mentioned in this post are bought with my own money except Aveeno, b.liv, Reviva Labs, Caudalie, Simple, ESL, Ulta, Aveda, and Bath & Body Works. I am not affiliated with any company nor getting paid to advertise any products. This post is written with my honest opinion.

August 2012 GlossyBox

When I came home from work yesterday (August 28th), August GlossyBox USA was waiting for me in my room. I always get excited opening the package because I don't know what is expected inside. It's always a surprise which intrigues my curiosity! I wanted to post this so for the people who want the August GlossyBox, it's not too late. This is my third GlossyBox. My first one was their grand premier in April, and last months July. Feel free to check those out.

Now for August GlossyBox...

I have to say their August 2012 Glossy Mag is more interesting than last month. They have more pages, the pictures are more intriguing, and the articles are interesting.

I love their packaging! It's so feminine and the boxes are so worth it.

They wrap it really well with tissue paper, GlossyBox logo sticker, and ribbon.

Now for the products I received. I rearranged them so I can take a picture inside the box.

* Touch in Sol Feel like Honey Moon Skin Base ($20 for 1.13 oz): Apply this fantastic primer after your skincare routine and before your makeup. Its honey texture firms and revitalizes the skin and allows for a better makeup application.
* Ellis Faas Ellis Lips ($35 for 0.095 oz): The lightweight and long-lasting lip products come in three fabulous textures; creamy lips for a matte finish, milky lips for a gloss finish and glazed lips for a touch of color. They are paraben-free, loaded with vitamin E and blend into the lips leaving them soft and conditioned.
* Biolage ExquisiteOil Replenishing Treatment ($22 for 3.1 oz): This treatment is a versatile serum infused with a Moringa Oil Blend. This ultimate potion gives instant shine and weightless replenishment to all hair types.
* Illamasqua Nail Varnish ($14 for 0.5 oz): Award-winning, extremely hardwearing and chip-resistant, there's an Illamasqua Nail Varnish for every shade of humanity. Apply two coats for extra intensity. Make a statement and talk with your hands!
* Ole Henriksen Truth Serum ($48 for 1.0 oz): This high powered vitamin C complex helps smooth out lines and wrinkles, fights environmental aggressors and keeps your skin moisturized, nourished and protected. Apply mornings and evenings.

I have to say this is the best GlossyBox I received so far. I'm so excited to play around with these products which I will review thoroughly in the future posts. I also have to say I'm so glad to be part of GlossyBox and to see their improvements from the beginning. They are getting better and I definitely recommend them!

Here's their subscription.

Thank you GlossyBox!!! :)

Disclaimer: The products mentioned in this post are given to me. I am not affiliated with any company nor getting paid to advertise any products. This post is written with my honest opinion.

Aveeno Clear Complexion Daily Cleansing Pads

Aveeno gave me some Clear Complexion products. Their website says it really well!

"Specially formulated with moisture-rich Soy and salicylic acid, a dermatologist-recommended blemish-fighting ingredient, this line of facial care products works to clear up and prevent blemishes while evening out skin tone and texture, revealing a beautiful, clear complexion."

To be honest, I was not too sure what to do with them since I do not have acne not even adult acne. If I do get acne, it's when its that time of the month. I get the huge, red zit that's noticeable. For that reason and knowing I have dry skin, I avoid acne products. The products tend to dry out my skin, and I feel the tightness in my face that I dislike. I thought hard and decided to just try the products out.

Product Review: Aveeno Clear Complexion Daily Cleansing Pads

Where to purchase: drugstores, mass merchandisers, and online at aveeno.com

Price: around $7 for 28 pads

Made in USA

Description from the back: Aveeno Clear Complexion Daily Cleansing Pads are designed to help clear up and prevent breakouts to leave your skin clear, smooth, and even-looking. These dual-textured cleansing pads are pre-moistened with a blemish fighting ingredient and moisture-rich soy to improve skin's clarity and help even out tone and texture, but not over-dry your skin. The pad is textured on one side to gently exfoliate and smooth on the other side to life away dirt, oil and makeup that can clog pores and cause breakouts. Gentle enough for everyday use and even for sensitive skin.

Ingredients:

Active ingredient

Inactive ingredient

Thoughts: Like I said since I do not have acne and for that reason, I was not too sure if I should try this product or not. Being a beauty blogger, as well as, being intrigued by products I had to try it out. Before I go more into the product, let me describe the package and the pads.

This is how it looks inside the package. I removed the steal before taking this picture. The steal is there to keep the pads moisturized. If there was no steal, I can see the pads get dry from circulation leaving the container. Of course, that will not happen in a day or a month.

One thing I found odd is that there's so much space around the pads. It did not make sense in the beginning, but now I understand after using the product. It makes it easier to grab the pads as you go down.

Here's how the pads look like. They're smooth on one side, and textured on the other. I hope you can see the tiny bumps in the picture. The textured side is to help exfoliate the skin, and the smooth side is to remove dirt and makeup.

I'm glad they put the expiration date on the bottom of the container. I'm not a big fan of products with expiration date only on the box. I tend to throw the box away as soon as I start using a product, and I do not have a reference to follow.

Now for the product, I actually like their smell. It doesn't smell like chemicals especially knowing it has salicylic acid. It's a floral scent, but on the sweet side. I also like that it's not a strong scent. I only smell it initially when exfoliating my face.

It's recommended for everyday, but I actually only use it twice a week. I normally exfoliate my face twice a week. I try not to exfoliate that often since it's not good for my dry skin. For that reason, I decided to use this twice a week as well. I noticed they remove dirt and makeup really well. I don't think you need to only use the smooth side. The textured side removes makeup and dirt as well or at least from my experience I could see a lot of stuff on the textured side.

When it comes to exfoliating, I can feel the bumps on my skin while cleaning. It feels cleaner and smoother afterwards. It'll be great for people who have acne because of the salicylic acid. To be honest, I do feel some tightness after using this product but not to the point of dryness that a moisturizer will not fix. I did happen to notice I did not get any acne this time of the month. It could just be a coincidence, but I honestly think this product helped. Something to think about...

Overall, I actually do recommend this product if you have acne. If you do not have acne, you can still use this product but I do not recommend in daily basis. Once or twice a week is good.

Pros:
* Aveeno; a brand that uses natural ingredients.
* Recommended for acne prone skin.
* Salicylic acid; acne medication.
* Dual-textured cleansing pad.
* Expiration on the container.
* Sweet, floral scent.
* Removes dirt and makeup.
* Exfoliates skin.

Cons:
* A little tightness.

Would repurchase: No, since I do not have acne.
Rating:  4/5 Tobey's Paws


Speaking of Aveeno, they're always so considerate!

They sent me cookies and a birthday card last year. They did it again this year! :) I think it's to celebrate my blog. To be honest, I don't even remember when I started blogging but they do. Isn't that so sweet!?!?

Here's the cookies from Elenis.

The birthday card I received. They had all the PR's sign the birthday card. I love how personalized it was! I feel special. :)

Thank you Aveeno!!! :)

Disclaimer: The products mentioned in this post are given to me. I am not affiliated with any company nor getting paid to advertise any products. This post is written with my honest opinion.

Clinique Chubby Colour & Shine in Whole Lotta Honey, Mega Melon, Woppin's Watermelon and Super Strawberry

Disclaimer: The products mentioned in this post is bought with my money. I am not affiliated with the company nor getting paid to advertise the products. This post is written with my honest opinion.

Sorry I have not blogged for a week! I was not feeling well, but I'm much better now.

Sammy Dress Embossing Zipper Bag in Pink

Disclaimer: The product mentioned in this post is given to me to review. I am not affiliated with the company nor getting paid to advertise the product. This post is written with my honest opinion.

I had an opportunity to choose any product up to $15 from Sammydress. If you have not heard of Sammydress, it's an online website that sells Asian products from clothes to accessories.

"We are an online fashion clothing store, a sub-company of Yigou International group, which is located in Shenzhen, China, adjacent to Hong Kong. Sammydress is a leading China online wholesale supplier of Wedding Dresses, Special Casual Dresses, Women's Clothing, Cosplay Costumes, Intimate Lingerie, Men and Women's Shoes, Wigs, Fashion Jewelry, Bags and Accessories, Home & Living, Men's clothing, Children's Toys, Shoes, and many more great items. We aim to provide a wide range of high quality, trendy fashion clothing at factory direct prices along with a professional service to customers all over the world."

They said it better than I could have! I've seen so many people post pictures of their hauls from places similar to Sammydress. Given this opportunity, I could not refuse. I went through pages and pages of handbags and fell in love with one bag.

The only thing that was holding me back was that the bag was pink. My typical color bags are black, white, brown (all types of neutral), and gray. I asked myself what am I going to do with a pink bag!?!? Am I even going to use it? I was clueless since I love the style and the pink drew me in. On the other hand, my head was saying don't get pink get white. I went with my eyes.