Update // Review of Bella Organics

You know how life gets all chaotic and crazy and you don't know where one to-do list starts and the other one ends? Well, that has been my life for the better part of this past year. My senior year of college got ridiculously busy with deadlines, requirements, and working. I can now say that I made it through it though, and I am one happy Bachelors of Science recipient! At some point this summer I will be taking my state boards and starting a job as a full time registered nurse! Yay! I am literally so excited!

With all that being said, I would like to get back into blogging (on my own schedule that is!) I want to enjoy my time, friends, and family, and as I have always said in my blog posts, I will write when I find inspiration and free-time! That is one great thing about having a blog; you can write posts when you would like, and if someone out there in bloggyland finds interest in your writing, then great-I would love to entertain you with my posts! Now that all of that is out of the way, I want to share a brand with you that I have absolutely been loving for a few months!

Bella Organics 

 " Bella Organics was founded in 2012 in response to a growing concern for the severe lack of all-natural and organic skincare products available. Our mission statement is simple: We believe that we should take care of our bodies, and in turn, our bodies will take care of us. That’s why Bella Organics products will never contain water, emulsifiers, or any of the toxic or unnatural ingredients that are found today in most mass-market products". -The Bella Organics website

A few months back, the Bella Organics company reached out to me to see if I would be interested in trying out a few of their products, since I am trying to change over all of my skincare and makeup to more natural, less harsh/chemical filled products. After looking through their site, I decided the company was one that does align with my concerns in the ingredients in products, so I went ahead and said yes to their email. After having these products for months (literally), I think I have a good opinion on them!

The products I received were the Jasmine & Honey Hydrating Face Cream, the Iced Lemonade Deodorant Creme, the Shea Butter & Sunflower Hand Cream, and Coconut Lime Lip Balm.

The Coconut Lime Lipbalm was probably the product I enjoyed the least; not to say it was a bad product, but compared to the other items I was sent, it was a little lackluster. It did moisturize my lips, but it could be compared to any run of the mill chapstick (except its 100% organic!)

The Iced Lemonade Deodorant Creme was realllly interesting to try out-I found it to control excess sweat, mask any odor, and just be an all around enjoyable product. The scent of this stuff is amazing! I mean the name of the scent is so spot on...I just wanted to eat it! (Don't worry, I didn't!)

The Shea Butter & Sunflower Hand Cream was a nice product; I found it to moisturize my hands and cuticles pretty well, but it was a bit greasy. Since it still is a good product, I work around the greasiness by using it before bed, which means I wake up with soft hands!

The Jasmine & Honey Hydrating Face Cream is the total star here! I was blown away the first time I used this. As you can see in the picture, the product has a whipped-like texture (as does the deodorant and hand cream). When the product is taken out of the container, within seconds it sort of melts down(probably due to all the oils in it). After applying it to my face, it does feel a bit greasy, but I sometimes find that I am using way too much-you only need a small amount to cover your whole face. It does absorb into the skin (but if I am too impatient, I just blot off the excess). Once absorbed, my skin feels soooo soft and healthy...but this isn't even the best part! When I wake up after a night with this stuff on, my skin feels plump, soft and brighter all around. Until today, I had only used this at night before bed, because I thought it would be too moisturizing for daytime. In order to give a good review, I decided to use it as a daytime moisturizer. I am definitely happy about how it works during the day too; using this cream seems to help balance out all my extra face oils (your girl right here is usually an oil slick!) This product would be great for dry skinned and oily girls alike!

Overall, I am super impressed with this brand, and would order from them in the future. If you are interested in natural, non-toxic, organic skincare products, I definitely recommend looking into this brand!

Thanks for reading!
XO, Kelsey

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**The Bella Organic products were sent to me free of charge; I was not paid nor guided to say anything about these products. All opinions shared are my own.

Update//plans and rambling!

It's officially 2015! I can't believe that it is almost February... seriously, where has the time gone? 2014 was a great year for me, with awesome opportunities, life changes, and memories made. I am so excited to see what 2015 brings-in just about 4 months, I will be a college graduate, preparing to take my state board NCLEX exam to become Kelsey, RN, BSN. WHAT?! With everything being said, wow... I have been super busy. I find myself missing this blog, because I love writing, reviewing, and "meeting" people through the blog world. I haven't had a lot of free time to devote to blogging this previous semester, but I think that will change this semester! I am so excited to go back into blogging.

 If you have been following me on here for awhile, you will know I spent a lot of time reviewing mineral/natural products over the past year and a half. Wellllll, that is pretty much one of my main focuses now! I am very interested in purging all of my old, chemical laden products, and slowly replacing them with non-toxic, natural, eco-friendly alternatives. If you love topics like that, I think you will be interested in what I have to post over the next year! I also have spent a lot of time changing up my diet and lifestyle; I want to feel my best, and be the healthiest version of me that I can be. My whole life, I have had cardiac issues and other health problems, and I have really had to deal with those things over the past year-so being as healthy and happy as I can be is something that means a lot to me. Look forward to fun recipes on here, as well as an occasional outfit post!

Lately, I have been into staple outfit pieces that you can dress up or down. I like the idea of creating a simple wardrobe that can be versatile, accessorized, and minimal. The thought of downsizing everything is something that has been on my mind a lot lately; I feel as though sometimes, you can have too much! I hold on to clothing from 6-8 years ago, because it still fits, and "maybe I will need it one day!" But how is it useful at all if it has sat in my closet, untouched for 2 years? Looking at websites such as H&M (for basic tees/leggings), Simons (dresses), Tobi (for sweaters/dresses), Loft (for blouses/sweaters), and Banana Republic (for sweaters/accessories/other basics) has given me a lot of inspiration for basic outfit items that can be worn in SO many combinations-just what I would like! Also, I recently discovered the world of outlet shopping. Oh.My.Gosh. Why did I never go before a few months ago? You can find so many "in style" pieces at the outlets, and barely have to spend money! Example: I went to the Banana Republic and J Crew outlet and got 2 mens button ups, a sweater, a casual jacket, 4 shirts, and a pair of Nikes for around $115. To me, that is a great deal for those brands. (I had to share that story because I went around telling all my friends and family how excited I was for those deals for about a week straight after that, haha).

Now that this post is all over the place, I think I have said enough for now! My next post will be a review, although I am not sure which product I want to share first! My question for you is: What type of posts interest you the most? Do you like beauty/skincare posts? Fashion posts? Recipes or fitness posts? Please share!

Until next time!
XO, Kelsey

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Vapour Organic Beauty Review

Hey gorgeous! Today I am going to take some time to review a brand that I came across about two months ago-if you are interested in more organic beauty products, this might be right up your alley! According to the Vapour Beauty website, their products are described as being:

"100% natural with 70% certified organic ingredients and 30% minerals and vitamins. There are no toxic chemicals, no parabens, no phalates, no gluten, no animal testing, no nano particles, and no irradiation".

To be honest, I don't know a ton about every single thing these products are made without; however, I know enough that I don't want those things in my products! This has led me to branch out and want to try to use better products in my everyday life. If you have been around this blog for awhile, you know I tried a bunch of mineral makeup products over the past year, nearly all of them being pretty pure in formulation, without any extra fillers or chemicals. I continue to use these products as I move forward in my quest for what I think is best for my skin!

The products I received for consideration of review are the Elixir Plumping Lipgloss, Aura Multi-Use Blush, and the Elixir Lipgloss. I can't seem to find the link for the plain old Elixir Lipgloss, which is why I didn't provide a link! Just as a general piece of info, I have had these products and have been using them for over a month! Now that all that is out of the way, let's get to the individual reviews!

 From top to bottom: Multi-Use Blush, Elixir Plumping Gloss, and Elixir Gloss. Swatches below.

        
Elixir Plumping Gloss:
In the shade "Coax", this product is described as offering "versatile color, dimension, and shine. Hydrating botanicals and organic plumping liposomes lock in maximum moisture for ultra-hydrated voluptuous lips. Never sticky or tacky, Elixir delivers superior body and shine". 

Personally, I love the formulation of this product. It is one of the most moisturizing glosses I have ever used, which might be surprising as it promises to plump! Many name brand plumping glosses I have used actually dry out my lips, which probably is due to the ingredients in them. Compared to plumpers like Too Faced Lip Injection Color Bomb, the Vapour lipgloss doesn't cause a burning or tingly feeling as it plumps. I don't mind the tingly effect...in fact, I kind of like it (does that make me weird?!) Either way, I think the plumping actually comes from all the moisture this gloss packs...I could be totally wrong, but it's almost like it makes the most of what your own lips can achieve from being moisturized! I don't find this to be sticky or tacky, which could be  a downside to some as this usually makes a product last longer. I would say it wears for a good hour before you start seeing the product fade; this includes drinking and eating! I would say the pigmentation is very sheer, at least in the shade I was sent.The taste isn't the best (not like the typical mint or fruit flavor many glosses offer), but for what the gloss does, I don't mind how it tastes.

Elixir Gloss:
In the shade "Sultry", this gloss is very similar to the plumping gloss, although you may not see the same plumping effects with this of course! Unfortunately, I can't find a description of this on the website, and I don't have the original box with me. Taste wise, I find this to have more of a flavor; one I can't exactly describe but it is better than the plumping gloss flavor! This gloss has a bit more of a tacky texture to it, but it isn't sticky...does that make sense? I want to say that maybe it's better explained as just adhering to the lips more effectively! This gloss wears about 2 hours before I really want to touch up. I adore the shade I was sent; it's more pigmented than the plumping gloss and I found it to pair well with many pink-toned lipsticks. I am actually wearing this gloss with a small amount of the plumping gloss in the picture below.

Aura Multi-Use Blush:
In the shade "Spark", this product is described as giving "a natural flush of color. These universally-flattering core colors work on all skin tones and all ages. Give the Vapour glow to cheeks, lips and eyes with one convenient stick. Aura blends like a dream for a polished look in seconds".

I think this is my favorite out of the three items I was sent. It really is very versatile! I have used it on my cheeks and my lips, but I am excited to see how it would work as a cream eyeshadow. I have pretty oily eyelids, so it would be interesting to see the lasting ability. The way I apply this is directly to my cheeks in an upward slanting motion. After this, I buff it out using a stipple brush. I find that doing this makes me look like I have a natural glow, and really makes it foolproof to apply! For lasting power, I would say that this lasts all day on me. I have pretty oily skin, but mostly in my t-zone, so I am not sure how this would work on someone with extremely oily skin everywhere. I do set it with a translucent powder, as I set all of my makeup, so I think with powder the lasting power should be no issue! I haven't had any problems with breakouts from this product. On my lips, it seems to be pretty moisturizing, although lasting only as long as a chapstick probably would.

Application technique! You can also see the shade on my lips in this photo.

Buffed out.

Voila! End result!

You can find more Vapour Organic Beauty products HERE.

Hopefully you find this review helpful! If you currently use natural, organic, or vegan products, I would love to hear about them! Leave me a comment below or email me at kelseylenay@hotmail; you can find me on twitter @kelseylenayyy or instagram @kelseylenayy

Thanks for reading!
XO, Kelsey

**As started before, I did receive these products free, for consideration of review. Vapour Organic Beauty has no influence on my opinion of these products, as no brand or company ever will! I genuinely enjoy these products and am offering my honest opinion of how they performed on me personally!

Sibu Beauty Sea Buckthorn Facial Cleanser Review

My first post of the new year is going to be a review of a face wash I have been using for about the last month...and I have to say I love it! If you remember any of my posts from the summer, you would know I went mineral makeup crazy in search of more natural alternatives to cosmetics...well, that kind of is a running theme in my life haha. I really do try to use more natural products any chance that I get-so when I was approached by Sibu Beauty with the chance to try out their face wash for free, how could I say no? I have used this for long enough to have a really well formed opinion about it, which is why I would like to share my thoughts now!

Product Claims: 
-Leaves skin looking and feeling radiant and refreshed
-Removes excess oil and impurities
-Contains micro-particles for a gentle exfoliation
-Great for removing make-up
-Non-foaming gel formula for all skin types

What is Sea Buckthorn? 
"Known as the “beauty berry” across Europe and Asia, sea buckthorn contains over 190 bioactive compounds that restore, revitalize, and protect youthful beauty – from the inside-out AND outside-in. These hardy berries help nourish skin, hair, and nails with powerful antioxidants and essential fatty acids, including the rare Omega 7 – a key building block to healthy skin, hair, and nails, and also aids digestion and may help you maintain a healthier weight". In addition, it is key to know about Omega 7; "the often elusive Omega 7 is found abundantly in the sea buckthorn berry, the key ingredient in all Sibu Beauty products, in addition to the more common Omega's 3, 6, and 9.  All four of these are critical in providing cellular support for healthy skin, hair and nails".  (Information gather from Sibu Beauty site).

How I use it:
I use this morning and night-at night I don't use anything beforehand to remove my face makeup; I only use this and it takes everything off. I will use a makeup remover around my eyes, as this contains really tiny particles for exfoliation which I clearly don't want in my eyeballs! Speaking of the particles, they are definitely "micro"...I haven't had any issues with using this twice a day, because the exfoliation is very gentle!

My thoughts:
I agree with the claims of this product, and not because this was sent to me for free. I would have no second thoughts on buying this product once my trial runs out, because it is a very good cleanser. If you remember my mineral makeup reviews, you would know that I think "balancing" products are a godsend for us combination/oily skin girls. You don't want a product that completely soaks up all your oils-that will just make you over produce more sebum and you'll be a bigger oily mess (trust me, I learned my lesson by now!) This Sibu Sea Buckthorn Cleanser seems like it would work for all skin types, because it isn't drying in the slightest. One of my favorite things about this is that after I wash my face, my skin feels extremely smooth and almost seems to have a healthy glow to it, which I am assuming is the result of the Sea Buckthorn Berry that is in it! This, paired with my new favorite facial lotion, has really changed my skin in the past month. I will be reviewing the lotion that I am referring to in the coming days!

This cleanser retails for $17.95 on the Sibu Beauty website, and contains 4.5 oz. 

What are your favorite skincare products right now?

Thanks for reading!
Xo, Kelsey 

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*I received this product for free for consideration. All thoughts and opinions are my own and have been formed solely off using the product in the past month.

Makeup Talk: BECCA Ever-Matte Poreless Priming Perfector

Here I am! After disappearing once again from the blog world, I am back with a new makeup review! Today I wanted to talk about a makeup primer that seems to be getting a lot of mixed reviews in the makeup world-and I think I know why!

Product: BECCA Ever-Matte Poreless Priming Perfector
Size: 1.35 oz
Price: $36 USD
Claims (Directly from Sephora website): A targeted oil-control primer that perfects and minimizes pores for mattified skin that lasts up to 12 hours. This formula specifically targets oil-prone areas and acts as liquid blotting paper to leave your skin fresh and matte all day. The formula is sweat- and humidity-resistant and free of silicone, oil, alcohol, and fragrance.
Use:  Use alone, before, or after foundation to control excess oil, while minimizing the appearance of pores. Feel free to use throughout the day to touch up areas of concern.
Wear time: Prolongs my makeup wear at least 3 or more hours longer than any other primer; also keeps me shine free longer!
Consistency: Thick to the touch. Very thick. It really doesn't feel heavy or even noticeable on the skin though!

My thoughts: First off, I agree that it does seem to minimize the look of pores...even with no other makeup on, it gives your face an almost airbrushed finish. I don't notice any fragrance to it, which is a plus to those that are sensitive! I find this to be the most mattifying product that I have ever come across in terms of makeup products. I am pretty sure this is going to be a staple in my makeup bag forever...and not only does it keep me matte, but I think it keeps my makeup looking better longer! For all the mixed reviews, it almost always comes down to how the primer applies. Many say that it feels like you are rubbing glue on your skin, or that it "balls up" or "peels" off. Proper application is key here! On Sephoras site, it says to warm up the primer between your fingers and then pat it on. This is where all the problems are! I do warm the primer up and pat it on, and haven't had a single problem with it. For review purposes though, I rubbed it into my skin-and eww-the outcome was not cool. Definitely saw the peeling and weird chunks of it on my skin that people were talking about. I know everyone has their own way of doing makeup, but this is one of those times that you just have to go with what the product says! When you pat it on, it really has a chance to sink in and fill your pores, and it drys soon after, which then gives your your flawless base for whatever other makeup you choose to wear! Also, I did not have any breakouts due to this product!

All in all, I highly recommend this to combination to combination/oily skin types. The price may seem a little steep, but it is completely worth it, as you do not have to use a lot. Also, this comes with 1.35 oz, which is more than the usual 1.0 oz that most foundation and primer brands have!

I hope this was helpful! Thanks for reading!
XO, Kelsey

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*This product was bought with my own money. All thoughts are my own, and I am not being paid or influenced by anyone to offer my opinions!

My Current Skincare Routine with Recommendations!

Hey lovelies! This past weekend my cousin asked me to talk about my skincare routine, so I am going to do just that! For a little background: My skin type is combination. This means that my t-zone area gets oily (very oily) and everywhere else is pretty normal, not really dry nor oily. The area right beside each side of my nose tends to get really oily too. Also, I have more noticeable pores in my t-zone.

 The t-zone is commonly shown to be similar to the shape of a capital T. This means that most of the forehand (top of the T), nose, and chin are in the t-zone. For me, this also includes areas on either side of my nose, but not completely onto my cheeks.

For my skin type, I focus on balancing the oil production in my skin, and controlling/preventing breakouts. I look for products geared toward those things, so here are a few of my favorites!

 

(Going clockwise): For face wash, I highly recommend Cetaphil Dermacontrol Oil Control Foam Wash or Aveeno Positively Radiant Cleanser.  Both do a good job of cleansing the skin without over drying, which is great for keeping oily skin in balance. When I was using Aveeno, I noticed some redness from my skin seemed to vanish while using the product. For moisturizers, I love the Cetaphil Dermacontrol Oil Control Lotion and the Beyond Belief ABH Facial Serum. I am not sure I could pick my favorite of the two, but I can tell you that these products make a huge difference in the health, oil production, and appearance of my skin!  When it comes to an eye cream, I can't say I have ventured too far out in trying a lot of brands. I have a few higher-end brands that I would like to try, but for now, I have been using the Dermactin-TS Serious Dark Circle Treatment (which I love!)After using this {morning and night} my under-eye area feels so moisturized! When I am breaking out, my spot treatment of choice is the Clearasil Rapid Action VanishingTreatment Cream. This stuff is magic...I am not even kidding! I also use something else as a spot treatment, but I will get to that soon!

I am ALL about face masks! I own more than these 4, but these are the ones that really make a difference in my skin. I clearly like the Freeman brand-having two just in this post (and more in my skincare drawer!) I recently purchased the Freeman Charcoal and Black Sugar Mask...and holy crap. Not only does it smell amazing, but when I wash it off my skin, I have the healthiest glow! The Freeman Avocado and Oatmeal Mask is great too...it really cleans out your pores, but is less exfoliating than the previous mask mentioned. The Clean & Clear Blackhead Eraser Cleansing Mask has been in my skincare routine for a long time now, mainly because you can see results with it, it leaves your skin feeling refreshed, and it works great as a spot treatment! The last mask I use is the Ageless Derma Special Clay Masque. I was given the opportunity to try this for free, and I am so grateful! I have had it now for almost 2 months I think, giving myself a good amount of time to try it, and I have to say, I adore it. I have been only reaching for this and the Charcoal & Black Sugar Mask lately. Like the Freeman mask, it really purges your pores and leaves you with glowing skin. It smells earthy-which I don't mind at all, as it is probably from the clay in it. It only has 9 ingredients, which is awesome. I think with some masks your skin has an initial purging phase; I actually had a couple breakouts pop up after using it the first time, but I have had that happen with other clay masks, and I truly believe it is caused from the mask drawing out your impurities. After using this mask (regularly I might add!) I can see a difference in my skin. I have noticed the redness in my skin has diminished as well, which could be from one or two of the ingredients in the mask? Besides working its magic all over my face, I will use this as a spot treatment. I do think that this gives the Clearasil spot treatment a bit of competition! I will be purchasing this mask once it runs out, and as long as it is sold! Side note: I usually do a face mask 2 times per week, or occasionally 3 if my skin is looking a bit rough!

The last part of my skincare routine that has done wonders for my skin is the Face Complexion Brush. I got mine from Sephora after realizing I could not spend the $150 + on a Clarisonic (spinning skincare brush).

I use this in the shower, every few nights. I usually just move the brush in small, circular motions on my face for 30 seconds at a time (forehead, chin, nose, and each cheek). I think that this paired with the impurity drawing actions of the masks has changed my skin for the better. My pores seem smaller, I have less blackheads, and the texture of my skin seems to be improved. I highly recommend shelling out the $7 for this brush, as it could be an easy but powerful improvement to your skincare routine!

I hope this was helpful! If any of you out there with dry skin would like me to research the best products for dry skin, I can do so-just let me know! Thanks for reading!

XO, Kelsey 

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Wishlist for September

Oh hey there. So I have decided that I want to make it a regular thing around this blog to do a monthly "wishlist". I did one last month, and I am here this month with another. Not only does this get some of the urge to go shopping out of me (putting this together is like serious window shopping-if you love shopping, you'll know what I mean when I say that window shopping can be just as fun as real shopping!) but it hopefully is slightly entertaining to see products that others like!

fall blush // leggings // face // mask //  music //  top // 

Lets talk about that blush up there. I have to admit, I do have a berry-toned blush already, but this is more of a red-berry color, versus my purple-berry toned blush. I think it would be perfect for the cooler months! The leggings are nothing special, but I do need a pair of dark gray to match a lot of my tops and dresses-sometimes black doesn't look as good as I think gray would look! For the "face" item, I have been looking into products suited for oily skin. I literally can't seem to find the perfect foundation to control my oil. I am so uncomfortable with having extremely oily skin, which is why I chose to wear foundation-to serve as oil absorption. The best products I have found so far for my skin have been a couple of the mineral foundations I reviewed during the summer! A couple yearsago, I purchased the Estee Lauder Double Wear Light foundation, and I think it worked well for my skin, but the color was wrong, so I returned it and didn't get a new one. Now I am wondering if I would like it as my winter foundation! For the "mask" product, I have been hearing SO much about Michael Todd products. I love watching beauty videos on youtube, and this organic brand has been ALL over youtube lately! This mask is supposed to draw out toxins and impurities...which sounds right up my alley! The "music" product is actually used for plugging your ipod into your car stereo...which I need soon! My radio is so messed up (super old car!) and I get tired of listening to Pandora on my phone because it kills my battery...so I think I will have to purchase one of these soon so I can have my music! Last but not least is this gorgeous top! I love the detail on the collar, and how it can be dressed up or down. I think it would make a great addition to my closet! 

What is on your wishlist?

XO, Kelsey  

Cabana Tan Gradual Self Tanner Review!

Before we start-with all the news about Google Reader going away soon, there is a possibility that GFC could go right with it! If you like to follow this blog, follow via BLOGLOVIN' just in case! 

Who is ready for Spring and Summer? We all know I am! Remember when I did a post about a review of self tanners? Well, I am back with another one! I am not saying everyone should be tan, but for me, personally, I like to have a bit of color on me. It makes me feel better about myself for some reason. Because of that, I have tried a lot of self-tanners, since I try to avoid using tanning beds (scary!) I really recommend checking out my first post, and looking at "what to look out for" concerning skin cancer. Now, let's get to the newest self-tanner obsession!

Meet my newest love, Cabana Tan Sunless Tanning Lotion. This product is made by Million Dollar Tan. I did receive this for free, for my thoughts and consideration ( I am not being paid to say anythign!) First, let me just promise you my full honesty. Second, I waited over a month to review it, just to be absolutely sure that this was a product I wanted to be on my blog. Clearly, it is. Here is a discription of the product from the website:

Apply it like a lotion and in just 6 hours, your skin will have a gorgeous, healthy glow. GUARANTEED!

This is the sunless tanning lotion you've been wishing for. It's an amazingly bronzed color that's easy to put on and lasts a week. This product is a MUST TRY. It's so easy and gives you such great color, you'll love it. Million Dollar Tan products are water based, non-pore clogging, never tested on animals, organically made and free of any parabens or any other gross additives. 

Let's break down its claims, which also include no streaking, smell, or mess. 

1) Did I have a glow after six hours? Yes, I really did. Here is a before and after from my application. The first picture was the night I applied it, while the second was 2 days later (2 applications total). More than 6 hours before the second picture was taken, but I assure you, I woke up with color! 

Is it just me, or is it a little awkward to only see my legs and nothing else? hah.

I am really happy with the color I got when using this. To me, it isn't overwhelming, or orange-y. In person, I think it looks even better. It states on the bottle that it is a gradual self tanner, which means it may take a few applications to get the color you want. Personally, I would of been happy with one application, but I did two applications before taking the picture, just for good measure and review purposes!

2) Did it streak? No, it really did not. If you read the description, it does say it is a lotion, and it really applies like one. I didn't have any streaking with this product, because it was so easy to rub in. In the past, I have used products with more of a gel consistency, which are nice, but they seem to absorb faster, and that is when you run into problems with streaking. 

3) Was it messy? No, not to me at least. Since it does apply like a lotion, it really isn't a problem! I am sure you could make it messy, purposely, but who wants to do that? Transfer wise, I did not notice it rubbing off onto clothes, bedsheets, etc. The color of the actual lotion in the bottle is an off-white shade.

4) Did it smell? This, to me is hilarious, Only because I never read that claim, until today, when I looked on the website. It is funny to me because from the get-go, when I first applied it, I was like "Okay, well if I review this, how do I describe the smell, because it doesn't really smell like anything". I promise. My thoughts were all over the place, wondering how I would tell you it was basically scentless, and that even though I suck at describing smells, this one was a doozy to pinpoint a smell! It's not fruity, beachy, foul, gross, or overwhelming. Guys, just trust me on this, somehow it is nearly scentless. I didn't even wake up with a weird "tanner" smell that you sometimes get with products. For some, no scent might be a negative, since this does apply and moisturize like a lotion. However, I think it is nice without  scent! 

5) Lasting time? Eh, I would say 5-8 days. I don't normally exfoliate every night when I shower, so I am sure that affects the lasting power, but I think that is pretty dang good. I also got into the habit with applying this every few days, once I figured out how long it last with one application. I did this to mamaintain color, moisturize my skin, and also darken the color I would get.  

6) Pore clogging? No. Not that I have noticed. I also used this on my face, as it says it won't clog pores on the website. I never had any issue with breaking out because of this. It isn't oily, or sticky on your skin, which is great, because who wants to put something like that on your face? Not me. It absorbs well and just does its job. I did see that they have developed a tanner specifically for your face, which is something I would love to try, just to see if it is any different than applying the lotion meant for your whole body! If anyone has tried that one, let me know!

Do I truly recommend this? Yes. I promise it is one of the best self-tanners I have used, and is actually more affordable than a few other tanners I have recommended before (not from the drugstore). The particular one I am reviewing retails for $20. Do I have any cons? No, not really. I only wish I would of chose the one in the "Extreme" version, just to see how dark it could get me! I know it seems weird to not really have any cons, but I think I just got really lucky with this product, and maybe you'll love it too! If you get a chance, and you love self-tanning, or just want to venture out and try something different, I do recommend this. Please let me know if you have tried it, and what your thoughts are!

-Extra tip for self tanning: If you have a self tanner that is gel based, dries too fast, or seems to dark for you, try mixing it with lotion! Not only does it give you more time to rub it in, but it also allows your tan to develop gradually, because it won't be as pigmented when dissolved in another lotion. This helps you control the level of tan you get! Love doing this with some of my self-tanners!

Hopefully this was helpful and not too long! Thanks for reading,
XO, Kelsey

Beauty & Fashion Wishlist

Hey lovelies! I wanted to put together my "beauty & fashion wishlists" for this upcoming Christmas! I am fairly certain I won't be receiving any of these items as gifts, since I am pretty sure no one that would be buying me gifts reads this, so I am not using this as a virtual "buy me this" list haha.  I still thought it would be fun to show what I am interested in right now, and for YOU to tell me whats on your list!

Beauty Wishlist 2012
with Origins, Cover FX, Benefit

Can we safely say that I must like blush and value sets? haha

On to the fashion/accessories list :)

Fashion Wishlist
with GlamourMeJewels, Michael Kors, FOREVER21

I realize this is a bit crowded-oops. I can't help that I like it all so much! I am in love with those jeans from American Eagle. Why you ask? Because I have absolutely no light colored jeans anymore, and I should probably invest in a pair since I have so many dark colored tops, that don't look too hot with my dark denim! I am also loving that cross bracelet from GlamourMeJewels (on Etsy). It seems so perfect. *Side note-if you get on Etsy, expect to be on there for hours. I am not kidding, you are like a kid in a candy shop! So much stuff on there! I am not complaining though :)



Let me know what's on your list!

Xo, Kelsey 

DIY: Make Your Own Pore "Strips"

Hello Everyone! Finally some time for blogging after this busy week! I just wanted to share with you a recipe for making your own pore cleaning "strips". A really popular drugstore brand of pore strips is "Biore". However they can get a bit pricey, around $8-$10 depending on where you go (and I have saw some boxes with 6, 10, 14 strips inside- I guess it just depends which type from the brand you choose!), and if you use them often, that can add up. Here is my homemade take on the pore strips for removing blackheads!

 You will need: Unflavored gelatin

I have always used this brand, works well and is about $1.25 for 4 envelopes.

You will also need milk, a microwave safe container, a microwave, and a q-tip!

First, get a tablespoon of the gelatin and put it into the cup. Next, add a tablespoon of milk. Stir! It should be a grainy, thick consistency. Place it in the microwave (after you remove your stirring utensil  spoon of course). Microwave for ten seconds. Stir again, and within about 30 seconds of removal from microwave, you should place it on your skin. If you wait too long, it will get tacky and you can't do anything with it! Like I was saying, you want to place it on the areas where you have blackheads. Do so with a Q-tip : )  Let it harden on your face for about 10-15 minutes, and then PEEL! Do it slowly though, I feel it is more effective that way!

I don't suggest putting it all over your face at once, but hey, if you would like to! However I usually place mine on my nose and chin. -Wherever your problem areas are : )

I feel this is a really inexpensive way to remove blackheads... but with every rose, there is usually a thorn [booo : (    ] This mixture smells TERRIBLE! I usually just deal with it, but those who can not stomach it should use a drop of some sort of essential oil or vanilla extract.

** I did not come up with this myself! I believe a year or more ago I came across a Youtube video about it, with Michelle Phan demonstrating it!

I hope you ladies enjoy this! Let me know if you try it!

xo

"theBalm" On HauteLook Now!

 On a website called HauteLook with the description "Shop new sale events daily featuring your favorite brands for women, beauty, home, kids, and men at up to 75% off." there is currently the  makeup brand theBalm! Booty Parlor is another beauty brand being featured right now, and the prices are ammmmmmazing! Seriously thinking about buying theBalm "Nude'Tude Eyeshadow Palette". 12 eyeshadows for $18 (good quality eyeshadow at that!). The original price on it is $36...so I am not sure I can pass this up! They have many other brands besides what I have mentioned, in different categories. Clothing is featured on the site as well. If interested, you can click the link below I have (which will give me a $10 credit for referring a customer), or go directly to the HauteLook site & sign up (if you would not like to use my direct link!)

http://www.hautelook.com/short/3EbNO

So what do you think? Will you be purchasing anything?

xo 

My Go-To Skincare Products for Oily Skin

So let's face it... not all of us have the perfect "normal" skin type. I was blessed with oily skin. Not combination, just oily! I used to really dislike my skin type, but as I get older, I realize that having oily skin (if you take care of it) will allow you to age with less wrinkles, because you have more moisture form the sebum in your skin. With that being said, I have had to adapt to my skin, and control the oil. Here are most of the products I use daily to keep my oil under control (Links will also be included in case you want to know more about the product/purchase it).

• ACNE FREE ALL DAY ACNE CONTROL FOAM- This product is great. I wish I had found it sooner. I just apply a dime-nickel size amount to my face, and allow it to soak in before I put on any primer or makeup. Not only does it keep your oily skin in check, but it also helps fight blemishes from forming.  You can find this here!

This is the full set of the foam products. I do not have them all yet, but I really should buy them set sometime when I run out of my usual face wash. Find them online here!

• AVEENO CLEAR COMPLEXION CREAM CLEANSER-Although this is a slightly moisturizing cream cleanser, I think it works great with my oily skin. Plus, with oily skin you NEED to moisturize your skin! More on that in a second! Back to this product… not only does it help with oil control (in my opinion) but it also helps in reducing redness, and even acne scars. I don’t have many acne scars, probably around 5 or 6, but I have noticed a difference in the texture and marks on my skin. You can get this right here!

• BOOTS EXPERT INSTANT MATTE- I do not use this liquid mattifyer every day, but I do reach for it now and then (if I am not feeling lazy haha). You just shake up the bottle and apply it to your skin with a cotton ball/pad, or a clean foundation brush. I find both to work very well, but if you do not completely rub it in it will leave a sort of white, powdery residue on parts of your face. Another way I use this is to mix a drop or two with my liquid foundation. This way, the white doesn’t appear, and it also is good for thinning out thick foundations! Get it here!

• Oil blotting sheets! I was using the store bought ones, until I started making my own. Whenever I feel I look a little oily, I will just gently pat all around my face with one or two sheets. It’s key not to RUB, because your makeup has more of a chance to come off! I also feel like the patting motion helps absorb more versus just rubbing the oil back into your skin if you just swiped your face with the sheet.  Here is the kind I used to use from the store: 

   

CLEAN AND CLEAR OIL ABSORBING SHEETS- These really aren’t anything special. I would highly suggest making your own sheets so you can save your money and get the same result! But if you really want them...they are right here!

• The most important thing you can do for yourself if you have oily skin is to MOISTURIZE. To some, that may sound like it would only make your oil worse, but I know first hand that it can make a huge difference. If you do not moisturize, your face will produce excess oil to make up for its lack of moisture. It just starts over compensating. When I first started moisturizing in the morning and sometimes even at night, I would find my face feeling oilier. I really think this happened because my skin was still producing extra oils, and the lotion was just sitting on my skin. However, once I had been using moisturizer about two weeks, I noticed a huge difference. My skin stopped compensating for the lack of moisture and just allowed me to have a more manageable, less oily face! Here are my favorite moisturizers right now:

 

THE BODY SHOP TEA TREE SKIN CLEARING LOTION- This stuff is amazing. I used this day and night usually. It is especially for oily skin, as it has oil-controlling properties (the tea tree oil) while it also hydrates. It feels really “cool” on your skin, and has a minty smell. Get it here!

 I also suggest investing in a night cream/thick face lotion. I do not mind having a slightly over oily/moisturized looking face when I sleep! No one will really see me, plus I am letting my skin get the extra hydration it needs. This is the one I use: 


ST. IVES TIMELESS SKIN COLLAGEN ELASTIC FACIAL MOISTURIZER- Very thick in consistency, but absorbs well into the skin. I love how my face feels right after I put it on, and when I wake up in the morning. The smell is also pretty refreshing! Get it here!

**If anyone is interested in my Go-To Makeup Products for Oily Skin, let me know : ) 

DIY: Oil Blotting Sheets

Tissue paper. I am sure everyone has received a gift at one point that contained it; blue, green, Christmas patterns, or even sparkly. What do you do with it? Save it for future gift giving (I do this usually!), or put it to use for something else? One day, I came up with another use for it when I realized I was out of my drugstore oil blotting sheets. I remembered I had tissue paper in one of my desk drawers from a birthday present I had received weeks before. I decided to test my theory that it would absorb the oils on my face. To my delight, it did! Theory proved! I am so glad I ran out, and that I have stacks and stacks of tissue paper from years of receiving gifts. Being a college student does present its financial woes, but now, I have one less thing to worry about buying! Here is how you can also make your own blotting papers!

STEPS:

Step 1) Find your tissue paper! Even if you do not have old tissue paper on hand, buying a pack of it from any store that sells it will probably be cheaper than buying the actual oil blotting sheets.

Step 2) Choose the amount of sheets that you want to make. You can use all of your paper, or just take one single sheet.

Step 3) Lay out the paper(s). I find it fastest and easiest to fold the paper(s) once in half and cutting it along that line so you have a straight edge. Once you do that, place those two separate stacks on top of each other. Do this process as many times as you see fit (this will help keep your pieces neat, and allow you to get the size you want).

 You should get something that looks similar to this:

Step 4) Storing them: I store mine in a zip lock bag, and I find this works just fine because I keep them on my desk. If you were going to keep them in your purse, I suggest finding a hard case like this one that will keep them from getting wrinkled or even putting them in the section of your wallet where you keep your paper money.

I am so sorry if this sounds confusing! It is honestly so easy that I think explaining it just makes the process more difficult.
 Step 5) Blot away! I find that these work just as well as any store bought brand. 

**Side note: As an avid member of the Youtube beauty community, I came across videos of this idea after I decided to make my own. If you need a little help with visualizing this, try typing in “DIY Oil Blotting Sheets” in the search bar and I am sure you will find something to help you!