Causes: My Pink Polishes Purchased in October + Swatches!

To close out one of my favorite months of the year, I thought  I'd show you the "Pink Awareness" polishes I picked up! Pink isn't a big color for me so I don't go too wild but I do really like the ones I got this year! This is also my first mani since chopping my nails in quite awhile! I also got a request to shape them square so there you go! I probably won't keep them square because they feel odd but they look better than I remember!

I found this Seche Duo including one Seche Vite polish & one China Glaze polish in Naked. The purchase went to benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure & also included this cute little heart keychain. I believe Naked is a new polish correct?

This trio is from a new brand to this blog called Dr.'s Remedy. I was pleasantly surprised! These polishes contain Tea Tree Oil, Vitamins, & Wheat Protein. These applied really nicely but Hopeful was the standout. This only took 2 coats & tried super fast. Both Nurture & Purity run more sheer, especially Purity! I couldn't even swatch it because it is one of those "my nails but better" type shades..& my nails got stained like crazy only yesterday...so no go. Nurture is swatched below though although you can't quite see the lovely pink flash!

Last up is my Nails by Laura polish in Know Hope which I bought awhile back. I swatched it this last week (see the swatches, they're pretty fun!) & am still in love. I wore this for about 5 days & had strangers grabbing my hands telling me how pretty it was & asking about it. This is extremely limited (only 300 bottles will ever be created!) so if you want it, grab it while you can!

Here they all are swatched with my index finger being a mix of China Glaze Naked + Dr.'s Remedy in Hopeful then a fabulous top coat of Know Hope. My middle finger is Dr.'s Remedy in Nurture, ring finer is Dr.'s Remedy in Hopeful, & my pinky is China Glaze in Naked. All of them were topped off with the Seche Vite from the duo pack.

What do you think of these shades? Did you pick any pink polishes up for Breast Cancer Awareness month? What is your favorite pink?

*The Dr.'s Remedy polishes were provided in consideration of review. Everything else was purchased by myself. All opinions are my own.

Beauty Box 5 for October 2012

So after the brilliant box last month from Beauty Box 5, I think I had my hopes up too high. This box wasn't bad, but it just wasn't as fitted to me personally. I also wish they had thrown in some Halloween or Breast Cancer awareness type products (this goes for all the boxes this month!) because I feel like they missed out! Themes like this can be so fun!

What was in my box this month:
-Margania Pure Argan Oil : I think I must have said this many many times int he video, but I seriously love this little bottle. How perfect is this for travel? This oil is alright, but at $32 per 2 fl oz I feel like it is a bit overpriced. This oil is definitely much thinner than my others & without much scent.

-City Lips Lip Plumper: This definitely plumped my lips with that burning kind of sensation which is what I expected. This is quite thick so although this sample is pretty small, I should get a few uses out of it. It has kind of a weird smell though, although I can't quite place it somewhere between chemical & plastic. I wish this had come in Spring/Summer since dry lips should NEVER used these.

-Show Stoppers Fashion Tape: Your standard clothing tape. I'll save this for the holiday season with those silly sweaters that won't stay exactly where I want them.

-Goat Haus Dairy Lip Balm: I love the bath melt but didn't fall for this balm. It smell good & tastes a bit like sugar cookies but it isn't very strong. The balm is moisturizing but I didn't find it long wearing. Plus, my label was all askew.

-Furlesse Elevens: I reviewed Frownies which I expect to be about the same. Eh. I didn't feel like they went with the flow of this box.

-Lash Card Lash Cards: I just don't get these. I would have much rather gotten something like a mini eyeshadow or similar item. If you like these, try an old gift card behind your lashes...or find a new mascara that is a bit drier!

+ the $100 discount for NuMe which has a few restrictions (you have to spend at least $100 & it is only valid on tools & hair extensions) but I think that is pretty great. I wish I was in the market for something new but I just got a bubble wand curling iron!

I'm so sorry I don't have photos of the card! My dog dumped a whole soda on it...seriously? True story.

So all in all, this wasn't a bad box at all it just wasn't as up my alley. For me, I've already tried items similar to the Furlesse Elevens & even if I hadn't I don't think they work that fast so you would need to try more. I've tried the fashion tape & although it is handy when you need it I don't think it is a great sample but more of a bonus. The Lash Cards just aren't something I quite "get" apparently. I do like the lip balm even if it didn't blow me away. Plus it is afforadable! The lip plumper also wasn't for me.

Do you get Beauty Box 5? What did you think of this month's box? Anything in here catch your eye?

*This Beauty Box 5 was provided in consideration of review. All opinions are 100% my own. Affiliate links have been used.

Beauty Blogger Coalition Roundup!

• Check out Blushing Noir's swatches of the Zoya Ornate Collection! Holiday just got that much more glamorous!
• Cosmetics Aficionado suggests wearing a bib to look at the Guerlain Liu Eye and Calligraphy Palette
• Laura from My Newest Addiction Beauty Blog shares her review on the Guerlain Meteorites: Perles Du Dragon.
• Shalini from Be Beautilicious loves MUA Blushers for being an excellent budget makeup product. See if you love them too.
• BeautyTidbits gives you the scoop on three luxurious lipsticks from the new Sensai Rouge Intense Lasting Color Lipstick line. Check out the review and swatches!
• Winter is almost upon us. 'think you can skip sunscreen? TheFabZilla has the answer; plus check out her review on MDSolarSCiences natural mineral sunscreen made for every body!
• Nail-Aween Day 6 - Mrs. Frankenstein Nails from datyorkLOVES
• Sheila from Painted Ladies finds out that Hourglass Film Noir Kohl Pencil In Espresso is a miracle worker for the waterline.
• Want to know more about The Best of Beauty Award winners? Check out Lola's Secret Beauty Blog's exclusive interview with Allure Magazine's Assistant Editor Sophia Panych!
• Elena from Endless Summer tried and tested a foaming cleanser from an anti-aging line which is good for oily and combination skin as well.
• Lipgloss Break: Want to know what the color of 2013 will be?
• One color might have sparked an obsession for Mama Fashionista! Find out what nail polish formula has got her scrambling to acquire every shade she can get her hands on!
• Check out what is inside Pammy Blogs Beauty's diaper bag! A review for JustFab's cute 760 tote. Fits personal essentials, makeup, and baby stuff. Love this bag!
• Suave Professionals has come out with a new serum - the Keratin Infusion Smooth & Shine serum - that's "salon proven to work as well as Kerastase." Christina test drove the serum and shares a review on Curls N Pearls.
• Polarbelle shows you how to be sure to see the posts you want to see on Facebook.
• Ashley from Peek & Ponder shares a colorful masquerade look for Halloween.
• Alison of the Advice Sisters wants you to know about the unique beauty products she saw during BeautyPress Editor's Spotlight Day. You will be amazed!
• Get out your battle gear. Beauty Info Zone is ready to teach you how to fight wrinkles.
• Mimi'a Mani's features a guest poster rockin' Zoya Jem
• Need a Halloween idea fast? Check out Stephanie Louise- All Things Beautiful & her drugstore mermaid mask makeup!

Beauty Blogazon Weekly Roundup!

• Glitter and holographics, Glitter.Gloss.Garbage has you covered with the Zoya Ornate Collection
• Cosmetics Aficionado: Is Miss Jessie's Curly Meringue the help your nat ural curls need? Find out at Cosmetics Aficionado.
• Confessions Of A Sarcastic Mom: Satioin glitters are all the rage over at Confessions of a Sarcastic Mom - check out Money Badger and Miss Pro-nup!
• Love At First Site!: AESOP Parsley Seed cleansing masque. A Review.
• Addicted to OPI-yum: Old Flat Top (aka Nasty Cat) Helps Me Open My Jewelry Mail!
• Beyond Beauty Lounge : Easy Eye Makeup Look
• Trouble-Maker On Heels: Trouble-Maker On Heels finally gound her favourite mascara - Smashbox Full Exposure Mascara
• My Newest Addiction Beauty Blog: Laura from My Newest Addiction Beauty Blog celebrates fall with Ellis Faas Milky Lips in L204!
• Mama Fashionista: Learn why you really should get to know Hydratherma Naturals and why the line has Mama Fashionista (and her hair) swooning!
• TheFabZilla: After several failed attempts at making skulls, TheFabZilla settles for a lesser complicated design for her Halloween Nails - Stitched!
• Très Beau Glamour: Looking for an affordable toner? Something that doesn't have a bunch of alcohol in it? Works for all skin types? Check out Nay Denise's review on the Dickinson's Original Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner -- her holy grail toner
• Lola's Secret Beauty Blog: Looking for an extraordinary primer that feels like a skincare treatment product? If so, Lola's Secret Beauty Blog thinks you will really love Reviva Labs Makeup Primer!!
• Amber Did It!: Amber shares a retro Halloween nail design.
• Just Skin, Bones, and Nails: Check out the new look, with awesome sparkly nails!
• The Beauty Delicacy: Get the perfect pout with Lipstick Queen lip gloss!
• Stephanie Louise- All Things Beautiful: Need a Halloween idea fast? Check out Stephanie Louise- All Things Beautiful & her drugstore mermaid mask makeup!
• Beauty Product Review: I'm going Wild for these polishes! Wet n Wild megalast makes for an easy manicure!
• Baking Beauty: Baking Beauty has finally found a smooth glitter eye shadow with ZERO fall out!
• Makeup Demon: Review: Mascara applicator tool 3in1 - your simple, useful, little helper

Beauty Bloggers Vox Open Box from Influenster!

Hey guys! It has been a LONG time since I had a box from Influenster. I had qualified for quite a few but then they weren't getting shipped to me. Now that it is all fixed (I hope!) I can show you my newest Vox Box. They completely redid their whole site & I'm still getting a feel for it. I definitely hope it will be more user friendly but I won't really have any final thoughts until the end of the campaign!


Obviously, I wanted this box pretty bad. The Beauty Blogger Vox Box? Gee...could that be any more up my alley? Okay maybe it could be a "Sushing Loving Beauty Blogging Dog Obsessed Military Wife Glitter Addicted" Vox Box...think they'll take my tip?


This is just a brief overview + video with my first impressions. I won't write out too many descriptions here because it is all in the video. This is the best Vox Box I've ever gotten so I'm hoping the remodel did them a lot of good! I know I am impressed so far!

Inside the Beauty Bloggers VoxBox 2012:
-NYC New York Color Individual Eyes Custom Compact ($4.99) in Dark Shadows
- Kiss Ever Pro Lashes starter Kit ($5.99) & I believe these are 05 lashes
- Bath & Body Works Mini Candle ($3.50) in the scent White Barn Nutmeg & Spice
- EBOOST Daily Health Booster ($28 for a box of 20 powders)
- Goody Simple Spin Pins ($7.29) for Dark Hair
- Not Your Mother's Kinky Moves Curl Defining Hair Cream ($6.00 for a full size)

Bonus: Some people received bonus items & I happened to get the Boots No. 7 Beautiful Skin Cleansing Lotion for Normal/Dry Skin & Night Cream for Normal/Dry skin. I have been meaning to try some more Boots No. 7 products so they read my mind!

Look out for reviews &/or demos of these products in the future! To check out Influenster, just go to http://www.Influenster.com/ This isn't an affiliate link or anything, just placed for convenience. These products are provided & shipped free of charge to members. You do need to do some surveys/reviews so don't consider them freebies! I am very excited to see what the new Influenster has in store!

What do you think of the items I received? Anything you are most excited to see more about? Are you a member of Influenster?

Nails by Laura Limited Edition Charity Polish in Know Hope Swatches + Review

I love pink glitter so when Laura came up with another charity polish (her previous was Dani-Mite) I knew I was in. Know Hope from Nails by Laura on Etsy is a kaleidoscope of pink glitter & holo shimmers within a clear base. It is spectacular, even coming from someone who isn't usually drawn to pinks. I paid my $10 & patiently awaited it in the mail, along with my custom polish "This is Halloween" which I have already swatched. & adore. Seriously.

Learn some more from Laura herself about Know Hope:
"Due to the success of Dani-Mite, our charity polish with 50% of the proceeds going to the National Brain Tumor Society (linked below, never to be made again!), I've decided to do another Charity Polish for Breast Cancer Awareness!

My mother is a survivor, and just about everyone I know or meet has lost someone or been affected by breast cancer- and I know it's rare to hear from a person who can't say the same! So this Cause will be near and dear to me and mine.

"Know Hope" is a sparkly, pink polish made up of about 8 different glitters in various sizes and shades of PINK, of course! Like DaniMite, it will be a Limited Edition polish but with 300 made. I want (to) raise money and awareness, and I want to do it on a larger scale this time!! October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, so get your bottle today! Each bottle will be labeled as Limited Edition- 1/300, 2/300, etc.

50% of each bottle sold ($5) will go Living Beyond Breast Cancer http://www.lbbc.org/
Even if you don't want a bottle, I encourage you to go to their site and make a donation!"

Know Hope from Nails by Laura:  This is a fabulous mix of pinks ranging from raspberry to hot pink to the palest of pinks. With a touch of holo micro glitter, this really has a mind of its own. Some metallic, some satin, & some flat glitters mainly in the medium-small range. There are also a few large glitters thrown in all suspended in a clear base. Most are hexes but there are a few small squares.

One of my favorite things about the Nails by Laura glitter polishes is that I can't imagine running out. They are totally packed with glitter & because I tend to layer I often only need one coat. These glitters laid nice & flat & I think looked pretty cool on the tips of the black matte. Bit more fun I think!

You can find this polish in the Nails by Laura Etsy shop, but it is indeed limited edition! You'll not the 10/300 on my bottle AKA this is #10 of the 300 maximum she is producing. This is by far the most unique pink glitter I've ever owned, nothing else in my vast collection even comes close. She works with quite a few satin glitters in her creations which you rarely see in other venues.

What do you think of my pink glitter tips? Are you feeling this polish? Have you picked up any awesome charity polishes this mont?

Boooo-ty Blog Coalition Link Up: Drugstore Mermaid Costume Makeup Tutorial

I have to say, I've been so excited about this post! It has been my favorite idea because all I used was easy to find drugstore makeup. From foundation to false lashes, the full tutorial is in the video below! I've also listed all the products below. I went with purple & blue, my favorite mermaid shades! This would work with an color combinations though, especially if they are well pigmented! I highly recommend the turquoise shade I used, it applied perfectly! To find out how I created this look & to check out the fabulous Halloween creations from other Beauty Blog Coalition members, just keep reading!

Zoya Ornate Collection Bonus Photos!

You saw the glory that were the Zoya Ornate Bottle Shots then the Swatches of each shade...so what is this post? Well, if you have ever tried to photograph holo polishes...then you know some of the best shots aren't exactly the most accurate! While I direct you to my Zoya Ornate Swatches for clarity & color accuracy, I couldn't help but share these fabulous "flub" shots. Is there anything more fabulous than holo glare?

Beauty Blogazon Roundup!

• My Newest Addiction Beauty Blog: Laura from My Newest Addiction Beauty Blog shares with you the contents of her makeup bag!
• Beauty Thesis: Daily #thinkpink product photos for a shop-your-stash approach to breast cancer awareness.
• Confessions of a Sarcastic Mom: Glow in the Dark Week kicks off with Ninja Polish Corny Candy!
• Love.Life.Beauty.: One of my favorite "Makeup Bag Must Haves" is Smith's Rosebud Salve! I can't live with out it, find out why!!
• Très Beau Glamour: Need a new fall shade in your nail polish collection? Something affordable and gorgeous? Try the Avon NailWear Pro+ Nail Polish in Decadence. An amazing royal purple shimmer nail polish that goes on smooth and even.
• Lacquer Buzz: Take a trip back in time with these cute 50's themed nails!
• Lola's Secret Beauty Blog: Always on the lookout for amazing face masks, Lola's Secret
• Beauty Blog has deemed the Malin+Goetz Detox Face Mask fit for royalty!
• TheFabZilla: New Giveaway! Get healthy hair & flake-free scalp with Parnevu T-Tree Hair Care Products
• Confessions of a Sarcastic Mom: Have you ever seen a glow in the dark watermarble? Destany attempted one!
• Perilously Pale: Christa from Perilously Pale was so excited to finally find the Maybelline Limited Edition Color Tattoo 24hr Eyeshadows for Fall. They were worth the wait!
• Mama Fashionista: A Immunity Booster AND Skin Beautifier?!? Find out what Sea Buckthorn Oil can do for you!
• The Beauty Delicacy: A start to my Fall accessory collection for the season.
• Addicted to OPI-yum: Make Histor-Riri. Here is your invitation to the Worldwide Making Histo-Riri Nail Art Exhibition
• Amber Did It!: Amber shares cute OPI Saran Wrap technique nails.
• Love At First Site!: Reviewing the Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser.
• Baking Beauty: Why you should consider putting Kisses on My List on YOUR Holiday Wishlist
• Pinked Polish: Pinked Polish wears Vivid Lacquer for Go Pink Wednesday
• Love My Nails: Awesome nail layering that looks like green dragon scales!
• Shades Of Beauty, Inc.: REVIEW: Parnevu Product Reviews
• Beauty with a Twist: Beauty with a Twist had a stroke of brilliance, combining glitter with jelly goodness!
• Beauty Fiends: Curious about Lush's facial cleansers? Julia tries out Herbalism, see what she thought!
• Peace Love and Glitter: The perfect combo of classy and fun, is that even possible? This gloss from Sephora manages to make it happen.
• Polarbelle: Looking to celebrate Halloween with some nail art? Polarbelle has a few ideas for you.
• Trouble-Maker On Heels: Trouble-Maker On Heels had a chance to try new Bedazzled Collection from Collection Cosmetics
• Beauty by Miss L: Miss L from Beauty by Miss L had a chance to try and review new monthly subscription beauty box called Adorebox that is now available in Estonia.
• Stephanie Louise- All Things Beautiful: Stephanie Louise- All Things Beautiful shows you the new L'Oreal Infallible Eyeshadow shades in Primped & Precious, Blinged & Brilliant, & Gold Imperial which are all perfect for the upcoming holiday season!
• The Convenient Beauty: The Convenient Beauty shares her personal story on why she wears makeup
• Lipgloss Break: Lipgloss Break is giving you the chance your Faith Hill fragrance of choice!
• The Beauty Think Tank: So you want to live the life of the Rich & Famous? Lady Gaga's Fame Fragrance may get you there - but it may leave you feeling a bit confused.
• Embellished Nails: celebrating autumn with a festive fall mani!

Nationwide Sally Hansen @ Walgreens Event!

I have a seriously cool even to tell you guys about thanks to Free Beauty Events! I've talked about them in the past & thanks to their coverage I've had readers tell me they have gotten to participate in some really cool opportunities! Basically the website allows you to put in your zip code & they will tell you all of the beauty events going on in your area & the dates. Sweet!

This one holds a special place in my heart because I haven't gotten to try these yet! The new Sally Hansen Insta Gel Strips! I love the nail shellac & nail strips from other companies, but drugstore products are wonderfully accessible! These types of products are perfect before a vacation especially!

From www.freebeautyevents.com :

Have you ever heard of Sally Hansen’s new product – Insta Gel Strip Demos? If you’d like to see how this revolutionary product works, you can go to Walgreens on select dates in November and December from 12:00p.m. – 4:00p.m. and try it. Demonstrators will be on hand showing how they work. To find out if this event is near you, just enter in your zip code at the top right of this page.

Date(s): Dates 12/16 12/14 12/9 12/7 12/2 12/1 11/30 11/18
State(s): AZ CA CO CT DE FL IA IL IN KS KY LA MA MD MN MO NE NJ NM NV NY OH OK TN TX VA WA WI GA PA

See? LOTS of dates & locations! Just go there & types in your zip code. Normally, I try to put down all the locations...but that is way too many guys! I hope you'll let me know if you end up going, I think it sounds like a lot of fun!

BzzAgent: Glade Expressions Oil Diffuser in Pineapple Mango!

When it comes to scents in our home, my husband & I have it pretty much down. We like fruit, pretty much all kinds. Watermelon, cherry, apple,...fruit. What we DON'T like is overly spiced scent. Apple cinnamon? No go. Hubby doesn't really like anything too floral unless it leans tropical as well.

Now that's I've so kindly filled you in I can inform you that the Glade Expressions Oil Diffuser in Pineapple Mango was a big hit. Unfortunately, we couldn't get this in mist form or we would have! We ended up picking up the linen scent for the mist & while it is a nice neutral, it definitely isn't our favorite. Did you know linen isn't fruity? Shocking.


The oil diffuser spent about 3 weeks in our bedroom & then the last 2 weeks in my office. Our bedroom is much larger (duh) so I thought a brand new scent might be too overwhelming in my little office. I'm glad I waited! Although this scent isn't overpowering, it definitely gets kicked out of the diffuser & make our whole bedroom smell nice & tropical. Now that it is in my office, it too smells nice!

We're usually candle/wax burning people so this was a really nice change! We use sprays when cleaning or freshening but it was nice to have a pretty oil diffuser that just sat on my desk. I didn't even have to light it on fire! Although the faux wood isn't exactly my favorite, I like it a lot better than many other diffusers. It is skinny so it takes up less space but still pumps out the fragrance. I wish it had come in black though, that would have matched better!

Overall, I'm impressed. This lasted a lot longer than I had expected. If this were in one of our bathrooms with the door shut, I think it might be a bit overpowering though. I think your best bet is to have it in an open space for the first 2 weeks & then find it a more permanent home. Having 2 of these that you could switch around would be perfection.

 Bzzagent was kind enough to supply me coupons to pick these up & I happened to find mine at Target. All opinions are my own!

Zoya Ornate Collection for Winter 2012-2013 Swatches + Review (Pic Heavy!)

So if you saw the Zoya Ornate bottle shots yesterday, then you know these polishes are all stunners. Every shade has me excited, even the gold shade which usually seems like a "holiday add in" type of shade. Zoya took this collection & made it completely their own. & it shows. Impressive. Really stunning. & original. I bow down to the Zoya fairies. Brava!

Zoya Ornate Winter Collection Bottle Shots

Alright guys, we need to have a talk. See, you know I love Zoya polishes...like so so so much. But something happened with this newest collection...I went wild! I have SO many photos that there is no way they will fit into one post. So you guys are getting 3. Here's part one, my bottle shots along with the Zoya description of the shades. Next will be the swatches & last will be some "flubs" photos...but there is no such thing with holos especially so they're fabulous. Get ready guys: Today is the Zoya Ornate Celebration! XO

ELECTRA: "Zoya Nail Polish in Electra can be best described as a micro fine diamond holographic glitter mixed with large silver holographic bar tinsel in a clear base.  Electra can be worn alone, as a festive french tip or layered over any polish to add a unique hologram glitter effect."

BLAZE: "Zoya Nail Polish in Blaze can be best described as a full coverage, cool-toned medium mulberry red with a high concentration of micro fine diamond holographic glitter. The multidimensional holographic glitter adds complexity and depth to this vampy red."

STORM: "Zoya Nail Polish in Storm can be best described as a full coverage, holiday black with a high concentration of micro fine diamond holographic glitter. Storm is elegant, powerful and versatile - try it as a french tip over Aurora or Blaze!"

LOGAN: "Zoya Nail Polish in Logan can be best described as a full coverage, yellow-toned forest green with dense, foil-like yellow-gold and blue-green duochrome shimmer! Rich color, a sparkling finish and a subtle duochrome effect make this green very special. Pair it with a Zoya Ziv (gold) tip for an extra dash of holiday flare!"

ZIV: "Zoya Nail Polish in Ziv can be best described as a full coverage, yellow-toned metallic gold foil with silver highlights and warm gold flake glitter accents. Try this for an extremely shiny, reflective, and eye-catching luxe gold nail. Imagine Zoya Trixie in gold."

AURORA: "Zoya Nail Polish in Aurora can be best described as a full coverage, medium sugarplum purple flecked with a high concentration of micro fine diamond holographic glitter. The rainbow holographic sparkle turns this plum purple into something truly captivating."

So there you have it! My photos & Zoya's descriptions! Next...swatches! Aren't those just the best part? & really...these are totally worth waiting for! Any guess on my favorite from this collection? if you follow me on Instagram you might have gotten a hint ;)

**Products provided for consideration of review.

Beauty Blog Coalition Roundup!

• Check out the October 2012 Birchbox & see why Brooke from BlushingNoir is such a fan!
• Glow in the Dark Week at Confessions of a Sarcastic Mom kicks off with Ninja Polish Corny Candy!
• Live in the Central Florida area? Enter to win Tickets to The Makeup Show Orlando!
• As the weather is cooling down our need for moisturizing lip balms is heating up, and Lola’s Secret Beauty Blog has a few favorites to share!
• On the hunt for the perfect red lipstick for Fall? BeautyTidbits has you covered with Jennifer Bradley’s Luscious Lips Combo to create the perfect day-to-night luscious, red lips!
• TheFabZilla shares her blow-drying experience with Elchim 2001 professional hair dryer. Is it as mind-blowing as it claims?
• The Lacquered Lady shows off her latest Disney Villain costume makeup: Ursula!
• Sheila from Painted Ladies shares an easy1950s/Rockabilly style eyeshadow tutorial. Wing that liquid liner!
• CND Shellac has released two limited edition holiday shades for Winter 2012 - Ruby Ritz and Tinsel Toast! Check out the swatches and review from Christina at Curls N Pearls.
• Pammy Blogs Beauty scopes out some boots from YouTube Beauty Guru's Elle and Blair Fowler new collaboration collection with JustFab. Find out how Pammy likes her new boots!
• Looking to upgrade your hair brush? Cosmetics Aficionado reviews the Sonia Kashuk hair brush.
• Beauty Info Zone loves Make Up For Ever's Aqua Rouge Lip Colors more and more as time goes on.
• Polarbelle goes pink during Breast Cancer Awareness month with Chanel Seduisant lipstick.
• Stephanie Louise- All Things Beautiful shows you the new L'Oreal Infallible Eyeshadow shades in Primped & Precious, Blinged & Brilliant, & Gold Imperial which are all perfect for the upcoming holiday season!
• From purple lips and disconnected eyeliner, it wasn't just the clothes that wowed at Edinburgh Online Fashion Week. The hair and beauty looks were show-stopping to say the least and Sarah from Scottish Beauty Blog was on-hand to get the low-down.
• Want something that's bloody and gory for Halloween? Check out The Stepford Witch's blog for a Special Effects Tutorial!
• Alison Blackman of the Advice Sisters has discovered a brand new product called Prime Extend from Living Proof, that actually helps your hair style, whatever it is, last several days longer.
• Mai tries out the Sephora Favorites Give Me Some Lip Set, how do the six pink and nude lip product samples fare?
• Mimi's Mani's shows some Parnevu hair products that will work for all types of hair.
• Interested in trying the Giorgio Armani Maestro Eraser Concealer but not sure what shade you are? The Beauty Professor swatches all six shades!

L'Oreal Primped & Precious VS Liquid Diamond: Do You Need Both?

So when I swatched the 3 L'Oreal Infallible shades yesterday, a lovely reader had a request. Seeing Primped & Precious, they asked if I had Liquid Diamond to compare. I do! Let's break them down & see if you need both shall we?

Boooo-ty Blog Coalition: My Top 3 Glosses That Scream Halloween for 2012!

Something I've noticed this Halloween is that there simply aren't enough Halloween themed lipglosses. Sure, there are a few floating around the drugstore, but nothing that SCREAMS Halloween. So I found some for you & you can thank me anytime. I went with traditional Halloween shades & all 3 are available at the drugstore so if you love them, I was hoping you could run out & snap them up!

NEW: L'Oreal Infallible Eyeshadows in Primped & Precious, Blinged & Brilliant, & Gold Imperial Swatches + Review

So I happened upon a new display & at the front were 3 L'Oreal Infallible Eyeshadows in Primped & Precious, Blinged & Brilliant, & Gold Imperial. I wasn't able to snag Gold Imperial when it first came out but you better believe I snapped it up this time! These 3 shades aren't necessarily 'holiday" shades (they were on a holiday looking display in CVS) but the gold/silver shades definitely are.

BlogHer: Diary of a Submissive (Adults Only!)

Pre-reading disclaimer: This post is about an erotic (although VERY well-written novel!) tale & is meant to be read by adults. That is all. If you wanted to read about beauty, simply look at many of my other posts! :)

So when I say this is an erotic novel, PLEASE do not think of it as a certain series of books that are often referred to as "Twilight with porn". This is not like those. Are romance novels bad?  Nope. But this is more erotic than pornographic...& by that I mean written by someone who actually writes about other topics. I feel like I'm not explaining this well but you'll have to bare with me.

The extent of my knowledge of dominant & submissive sexual culture pretty much starts & ends with Laurel K. Hamilton. Many of her characters (most being shifters or vampires or...well you get the point!) are subs or doms & although she touches on certain topics throughout her many books I've never delved deeper into the culture. I was surprisingly interested in reading about it!

I felt like the author Sophie (who writes about herself) really lets you see this world through her eyes. From her first experiences to her funny tales, she writes in a way that makes you feel comfortable reading. She does not dive straight into pony play or furries (what you guys don't watch Comedy Central?) so don't worry. I loved reading about he actually learning about the submissive & dominant culture, especially the weird messages she got. Writing a blog opens you up to strange messages frequently so I think I definitely could relate!

If you are interested in reading a well-written erotic story, learning more about a submissive sexual story, or even just looking for something out of your reading norm I think this is a good choice. It is pretty impossible not to fall for Sophie & I can guaruntee it is worth finding out what happens to her!

This book was kindly provided from BlogHer for review purposes, to participate in our discussions go here & start chatting! This is a paid review for BlogHer Book Club but the opinions expressed are my own.

Guest Post: How to Remove Acne Scars

Having a zit is bad enough, but no one should have to suffer from acne scars years after the acne is long gone! Luckily there are ways to remove acne scars and get your skin back to its former glory. 

Red or brown acne marks that are left behind after a pimple (also known as macules) will usually fade with no need for treatment. To encourage skin renewal, try skin treatments with retinoids (prescription Retin-A or over the counter creams with retinol), hydroquinone, kojic acid, glycolic acid or lactic acid.  

Be careful with hydroquinone if you have a darker skin tone because some dark skin tones can have a (rare) reactive darkening. For darker skin tones, try one of the other options. For severe marks, try dermabrasion or chemical peels to remove the top, discolored layers of skin. 

Deep, pitted acne scars can take two forms: scars with a gradual dip or depression or scars that are deep and narrow. These acne scars are called ice-pick scars, depressed fibrotic scars, soft scars, atrophic macules, or follicule macular atrophy.  

For deep acne scars, try laser resurfacing. Laser Skin Resurfacing is a cosmetic laser procedure that, when performed in the hands of the proper licensed medical professional, can have amazing results beginning with the very first treatment. Laser resurfacing uses high-energy light to remove damaged and discolored skin. Laser resurfacing may also be used to minimize wrinkles and fine lines. 

Be realistic with your expectations, and explore your options with your doctor or skin care professional.  

Guest post by Damon Scordo, General Manager of South Coast MedSpa (SCMS), a worldwide leader in laser skin resurfacing treatment for all skin types. SCMS is proud to announce the grand opening of its 4th location in San Diego. SCMS offers San Diego skin resurfacing, San Diego skin rejuvenation and San Diego acne scar removal for dark skin as well as light skin tones. SCMS also has locations in Los Angeles and Orange County.
This is a guest post. I was not compensated in any way, this is just for your reading pleasure!

Beauty Blog Coalition Halloween Sweepstakes-- $500 Visa Winner! OPEN!

The ladies of the Beauty Blog Coalition have teamed up once again to host another sweepstakes for our dear readers!  The Beauty Blog Coalition Halloween Sweepstakes begins today, 17 October and will end on 1 November 2012.  One winner will receive a $500 USD Visa Gift Card!  All terms and conditions may be found at the bottom of the Rafflecopter widget.  Please allow the widget to load in full.  You may enter on any of the participating blogs below - Rafflecopter will not allow you to enter twice.  You may tweet about the giveaway (the last option in the Rafflecopter) every day for extra entries!

Participating Blogs
Beauty and Fashion Tech
Beauty Info Zone
Beauty Thesis
Blushing Basics
Blushing Noir
Confessions of a Sarcastic Mom
Cosmetics Aficionado
Emily Hudspeth, Bringing the Beauty to You!
FutureDerm
Lawless Lacquer
Madame B Fatale
Making Up the Midwest
Midnight Manicures
Moxie Reviews
My Highest Self
My Newest Addiction Beauty Blog
Peek & Ponder
Perilously Pale
Phyrra
Polarbelle
polish fixation
polish insomniac
PolishGalore
Prime Beauty
Stephanie Louise- All Things Beautiful
The Daily Nail Blog
The Plastic Diaries
TheFabZilla
a Rafflecopter giveaway

My Husband's Promotion Ceremony + My Makeup!

Hi guys! So today I bring you a very special post with pictures of me & the hubby! Recently, he was promoted (woohoo!) & we had a nice time celebrating. I actually wore my Mary Kay look that I did in my video recently (to view that video click here!) & you can see reviews of the products I used as well! I love it, simple but very pretty.


Click here to read more.....>>>

Beauty Blog Coalition Roundup!

• Blushing Noir is diving headfirst into Holiday 2012 with the Tarte Eye Catchers 6-piece SmolderEYES Collectors Set!
• It's not parvo, it's Parnevu. TheFabZilla tried Parnevu T-Tree hair products to address her flaky hairline. Did it solve her snowy problem?
• Check out one of the hottest nail polish collections for this fall as Jeanie at Midnight Manicures shows you Part 1 of the Color Club In True Fashion Collection.
• BeautyTidbits is giving away the new GUESS Seductive Homme Blue. Enter to win!
• The Nail Network shows off her glittery, festive autumn foliage nail art!
• Sheila from Painted Ladies has found a great bargain foundation that costs all of $5! Rimmel's Clean Finish is a drugstore must.
• BeautyJudy's got swatches and review (and a comparison!) of the upcoming, totally luxe OPI Skyfall Holiday 2012 collection!
• If you are looking for the perfect nude lip, then Lola's Secret Beauty Blog has a treat for you! Rouge D'Armani Lipstick in Beige 103 + Chanel Sweet Beige Glossimer = nude lip perfection incarnate!
• Cosmetically Challenged walks the runway and shows off the L'oreal Project Runway Electric Fantasie Nail Polish Collection.
• Be the Ghost with the Most if you win this Halloween giveaway from Confessions of a Sarcastic Mom!
• Christina from Curls N Pearls tries out a new skin care line - Forward Skin Care. What did she think of this cruelty-free, anti-aging brand? See her review of the Supreme Serum here.
• Mac Marilyn Monroe Lipsticks can be seen in all their beauty icon glory on Polarbelle this week.
• The Beauty Professor got to try the Le Metier De Beaute CHEM60 Pro-Peel and GLOW10ai Mask Set and discusses her initial experience in a video review!
• Le Metier de Beaute has a fabulous new lip kaleidoscope that Beauty Info Zone wants to share. You'll be “Breathless” when you see it.
• Think only the most expensive lipsticks will do? Check out Stephanie Louise- All Things Beautiful diving into her swatches & review of the Rimmel London Kate Moss Lipsticks!
• Mimi's Mani's guest poster answers questions you may have about professional hair removal.
• Want a sweet Halloween treat for your nails? Try this candy corn manicure from Peek & Ponder.

Boooo-ty Blog Coalition Link Up: Fall Festival Coastal Scents Palette Pumpkin Spiced Eyeshadow Tutorial

Normally I do a review before I do an eyeshadow look, but I couldn't help it! I might still be testing these shades, but I adore this look! Ready to jump into the Halloween/Fall season? This is an easy look to achieve & definitely a bit fun while still being wearable. I'll have some costume type tutorials coming up...less wearable!

Lips: My Kate Moss Lipsticks in 15, 14, 09, 08, 06, & 04 Swatches + Review

So right out of the gate let me tell you I adore these lipsticks. I really want to own them all, but my CVS basically refuses to restock the ones I don't have. I want #12 like no one's business but they have one damaged, mangled one left. BOO! But overall, this is definitely one of my favorite lines from the drugstore, especially for around $5.

Look Good Feel Better: philosophy Launches 'Graceful Journey' to Benefit LGFB

This post is more than a promotion, it is to help spread the word about an organization called "Look Good Feel Better" also known as LGFB. Find out more by visiting www.lookgoodfeelbetter.org

OUR MISSION: Look Good Feel Better is dedicated to improving the self-esteem and quality of life of people undergoing treatment for cancer. It is our aim to improve their self-image and appearance through complimentary group, individual, and self-help beauty sessions that create a sense of support, confidence, courage, and community. 

I hope that when you're being bombarded with specials this month to benefit wonderful causes, you'll take a moment to honor this group. They work with women undergoing something heartbreaking to make the day to day more bearable. The brands I will be posting about work hard to make these women feel better from the inside out...because doesn't everyone want to feel & look great no matter what the circumstances?  

I chose to feature this set from Philosophy first because I thought it had a beautiful message. I don't know if you guys can see it, but on the box it says "philosophy: no matter how rough the road, may it be a graceful journey". I love that. I also think the positive cards were a nice addition & everything looks classy & clean.

On September 1st, Philosophy launched ‘Graceful Journey,’ an inspirational gift set featuring pure grace shampoo, bath & shower gel, along with seven cards offering words of encouragement to help guide people through life’s difficult journeys. From now until September 1, 2013, 100% of the net proceeds from the sale of each graceful journey set will benefit Look Good Feel Better.

#spon: I'm required to disclose a relationship between our site and LGFB . This could include the LGFB providing us w/content, product, access or other forms of payment.

Face: Badger Damascus Rose SPF 16 Face Sunscreen Lotion Review

When it comes to sunscreen, I prefer a heavy dose of SPF. I'm fair & freckled but I honestly think everyone should be as SPF obsessive as me. However, when I'm sitting around the house or having a low to no makeup day, I try not to waste SPF on nothing. When Badger's Damascus Rose SPF 16 Face Sunscreen Lotion came into my life, I was wary. Would I like the scent? Is 16 enough SPF for daily use? & would my picky skin accept or reject this as a moisturizer?

EOS Smooth Sphere Lip Balm in Medicated Tangerine Review

 

If you are a frequent reader then you have probably seen the EOS lip balms before. I recently covered the EOS Alice in Wonderland Disney Collaboration & absolutely love them. They are still available so I urge you to check them out! Today I'm going to be talking about the Medicated Tangerine version...which is near impossible to find in my area!

What EOS says on their website:

This daily-use lip balm provides medicated relief and helps prevent bacterial contamination on your lips.

• Immediately soothes and restores moisture with anti-bacterial protection
• 95% natural
• Vitamins, zinc and shea butter
• Smoothes on clear
• New smooth sphere precisely glides on to lips
• Twist-off top
• Petrolatum and paraben-free
• Gluten-free
• Phthalate-free

Packed with antioxidants, zinc, Vitamins C & E and shea butter, shea butter and jojoba oil, eos Medicated Tangerine Lip Balm pampers your smile - and protects it, too.

 I wasn't expecting to lip this balm nearly as much as I actually did. When I think of medicated balms, I immediately think of being sick. When your lips start to crack & get peely, you need a bit more oomph. I am not a bit orange/tangerine fan but like the lemon variety, I quite lip this one. Rather than making me taste like medication (ew!) this always has a light tangerine scent/taste but it isn;t so overwhelming that it would make me nauseous if I was ill. This variety also seems a bit thicker than the others I have which I appreciate. I have a feeling I'll be using this a lot in the season of coughing fits & runny noses!

Have you tried the EOS Medicated Tangerine balm? Which EOS balm is YOUR favorite?

**A sample of this balm was graciously provided for unbiased consideration.

Beauty Box 5 for September 2012 featuring a great mix of products!

 

So if you read my very first review of the Beauty Box 5 subscription service back in July, then you would know it wasn't something that blew me away. It wasn't awful, but it wasn't amazing either you know? With all of the monthly beauty subscriptions we have access to, you have to have something really special to compete. This is my 2nd box & the September BB5 box really impressed me! With 2 full-sized products, it definitely did a much better job. Let's see what was inside!

Sally Hansen Lustre Shine in Plume Swatches & Review

So with all the Chanel Peridot dupes roaming around, the promo shots of Plume from the Sally Hansen Lustre Shine collection had people talking. Is it a dupe? Nope. But it is ultra pretty. Check out the shots below!