The Gift of Giving Back

Hello Everyone!

*Disclaimer: The mirrors provided in this giveaway are provided by originalbeautybox.com

Giving back is one of the best feelings in the world to me.  I'm truly a believer in the saying it is better to give than to receive. For my upcoming 7th Blogiversary next month July 27th (a month from today!) I wanted to do something special for local healthcare workers, particularly nurses.

All my life I've seen my mom work in healthcare as a nurse, so I've seen up close how essential healthcare workers are to the community. I wanted to give back to three local nurses here in South Carolina.

This is one of the baskets I put together. During this pandemic I've been focusing on self care. I think self care is so important especially during this pandemic.

For the other two gifts I'm going to add 2 bath bombs to go along with each mirror. The black mirror shown is mine, but I wanted to show what the mirror looks like. Isn't it gorgeous?! Once I finish getting the items together I'm going to place them in cellophane with a bow.

I want to give a special thank you to Original Beauty Box for providing the mirrors that are included in the local giveaway.  I chose nurses for this giveaway, but I want to thank all the essential workers for all that you do!

Derma E Skincare Goodies

Hello Everyone!

* Disclaimer: This post contains PR Samples provided by Derma E for review purposes. I would like to thank Derma E for sending these products. All opinions are 100% my own. Product information, courtesy of dermae.com

Good skincare starts with good skincare products! One of my favorite brands Derma E, sent over boxes full of skincare goodies!  

Once I turned 30, I started adding a few preventative Wrinkle Skincare Products during my skincare routine. I don't have wrinkles, but now that I'm 34, I take Anti Wrinkle Products more seriously.  I already the Moisturizer and the overinight peel. I can't wait to try Derma E's Anti Wrinkle products to help continue to prevent wrinkles!

Derma E Anti Wrinkle Cleanser 

Derma E Eye Wrinkle Cream

Derma E Vitamin C Renewing Moisturizer

Derma E Overnight Peel 

Look at all these amazing skincare products! How cute are the headband, sticker, and peel on tattoo?! 

I'm still practicing social distancing and quarantining, but I can still have glowy skin that is healthy and hydrated. I can't wait to try the cleanser, sunscreen, mist, and night cream since I'm unfamiliar with those products.  It's still important to practice good skincare habits even if your not out and about. Since being inside the house more, I've been using Derma E 's Blue Light Shield Skincare products. Since I look at my laptop and phone more, it's important to keep  protected from looking at screens for long periods of time. 

I mentioned in one of my self care posts that I started using the Hydro Gel Patches. Some times I suffer from insomnia which can make me look tired under my eyes. These patches help so much with reducing puffiness under my eyes ans helps me look more refreshed on the nights I lose sleep. The dark circles under my eyes are clearing as well.

Derma E Hydrating Alkaline Cloud Cleanser

Derma E Hydrating Mist

Derma E Blue Light Shield Concentrated Serum

Derma E Overnight Peel

Derma E Vitamin C Intense Night Cream

Derma E Vitamin C Bright Eyes Hydro Gel Patches

Derma E Sun Defense Mineral Oil-Free Sunscreen Face

Derma E Radiant Glow Face Oil

What are your favorite Derma E products? 

Purple Glitter Eye Makeup

Hello Everyone!

As you can tell by today's post, I'm sharing all things Purple Glam. I've been showing blue eye makeup looks, so today I wanted to switch things up with purple.

To create this makeup look I used my Chique pink glitter eye makeup brush 5-piece set and Chique eye kit 5-piece purple glitter eye makeup brush set. I love that I can use inexpensive quality brushes to create my makeup looks! I don't think these brushes are on the Chique Tools website, but you can check 5 Below.

 I was looking for a vibrant glittery purple shade, so I went with the Charles James Palette. Purple is one of my favorite colors to wear during the Summer. To create this eye makeup look I used the shadows Love That in the crease, on the lid, and outer v and a glitter shadow, Aristry on top of Love That on the lid. To finish my eye makeup look, I used a metal glitter (to create glitter eyeliner) form Urban Decay an a Tarte Mascara.

I've mentioned numerous times that using good quality brushes are important  elements when creating makeup looks. I love that these Chique Tools Brushes are very soft, and pick up product well. The eye brushes make blending Eyeshadows easy.

Lastly I used Benefit's Cookie Highlighter to get a Summer Glow, and I used Morphe Liquid Lipstick in Jealousy on my lips. To make my Liquid lipstick is applied, sometimes I use a lip brush to correct any mistakes  before it dries.

Happy First Day of Summer! 

Spa Sciences First Impressions

Hello Everyone!

A few months ago I received a 50% off coupon on Spa Sciences Products. I've been curious about this brand for a while so I made a few purchases with my discount. *All product information can be found on www.spasciences.com

All the items came in the box neatly packaged 

Another photo of the box packaging. Spa Sciences also included bubble wrap to protect one of the items. 

Spa Sciences SIMA ($29.00)

Sonic Dermaplaning Device for Exfoliation & Peach Fuzz Removal With 7 Weeks of Treatment Tips.

SIMA is a revolutionary, professional grade at-home dermaplaning device that is safe and hygienic. Inspired by professional dermaplaning, SIMA uses sonic technology to instantly remove peach fuzz, build-up, debris and dulling dead skin to reveal a completely rejuvenated and hair-free complexion. SIMA boosts the power of skincare products by erasing the barrier to penetration as well as creates a perfectly cleansed canvas for a more flawless makeup application. After a single treatment, you will experience a brighter, softer, smoother and more youthful looking complexion..

Use SIMA once a week to achieve professional-grade skin smoothing and hair removal results. SIMA is cost efficient, safe and effective for all skin types and tones.

I absolutely hate peach fuzz, but unfortunately I have peach fuzz around my chin area. I use Dermaplaning devices to help reduce peach fuzz. Sima has helped, but I did experience irritation the first few uses. I'm not surprised since I think my skin is sensitive to other Dermaplaning devices as well. I think this is a good alternative to going to a Spa, and less expensive. I actually purchased this product with the Target Beauty Essentials Post.

Spa Sceinces NOVA $39.00

Antimicrobial Sonic Cleansing System

NOVA is a waterproof, rechargeable sonic cleansing brush that features both sonic technology and patented antimicrobial protection to provide the highest level of daily cleansing and exfoliation. It effectively cleanses your skin 7 X better than manual cleansing, getting deep into the pores to eliminate dirt, oil, makeup and debris as well as dulling dead skin cells to give you a cleaner, smoother, softer and brighter complexion. With a perfectly cleansed canvas, serums, creams and moisturizers are better able to absorb to give you quicker and more effective results and makeup looks more flawless.

Younger looking, Radiant Skin Starts with Clean Skin!

Dermatologists agree that properly cleansing and exfoliating the skin is the most critically important step in any skincare routine if you really want a flawless, youthful and radiant complexion.

My Thoughts

I love my Clarisonic, but I've been looking for an alternative for a while. I'm a firm believer that good quality skincare products and accessories don't always have to be expensive. I've heard so many positive reviews for Nova that I wanted to give it a try.  I haven't used Nova yet, but I did test the brush on my face. The bristles are so soft. My hope is that this brush doesnt cause my face to break out like my Clarisonic does at times. I also like the sleek design of Nova it feels lightweight and comes with a base charger. 

Spa Sciences ECHO ($29.00)

Antimicrobial Sonic Makeup Brush with MicroDust™ Technology

ECHO is an antimicrobial sonic makeup brush that allows you to blend and buff makeup like a Pro to achieve an airbrush-like finish. ECHO utilizes a breakthrough innovative Flaw-Fill makeup application technology called MicroDust™, which transforms both liquid and powder makeup into micro-sized particles during the application process. This interlocking pattern fills up facial flaws from the bottom up, diminishing the look of fine lines, enlarged pores, scars and uneven texture for a perfectly blended, streak-free, flawless-looking finish.

And the Antimicrobial LIFE® protection of the ECHO brush guards against 99%+ of bacteria that can grow on brush heads.

Apply and Blend Makeup Like a Pro!

My Thoughts 

I haven't tried Echo yet, but I have wanted to try this brush for the longest time. I can spend a lot of time blending stubborn foundations that are hard to blend with an ordinary brush. My hope is that I can spend less time blending with this brush especially on those days I'm in a hurry. I also wanted to try this brush to get more of an airbrush look with my foundation. I plan on creating a few makeup looks in the next few days, so I can write a review after a few uses.

Spa Sciences VIVA ($24.00)

Advanced Pedicure Foot Smoothing Tool

VIVA is a rechargeable skin smoothing devicethat targets rough and callused areas of skin on the feet to provide instantly softer, smoother and brighter skin. VIVA’s multi-disc system is a 2-in-1 at home solution that is designed to quickly buff away unwanted areas of rough skin and then polish for more touchable and more attractive feet.

VIVA can be used in place of professional pedicure treatments or used to extend the length between pedicures. The unique 360-degree rotating Treatment Head and ergonomically designed handle make VIVA a simple, painless and quick way to transform your feet and improve confidence in the comfort of your own home.

Instantly Improve Both The Look And Feel of Your Feet With VIVA!

My Thoughts 

Viva is favorite product at the moment from this haul. It's sandal season and cracked heels and/or rough feet are not cute lol. I take good care of my feet, but Viva helps me remove any rough spots on the bottom of my feet. My feet feel much softer after I started using Viva. The device is painless, but as suggested this device works better when you feet are dry. Viva is a must have for the warm months or for a self care foot routine.

Overall, I like the products that I've tried so far. I have high hopes for Nova and Echo Devices. I like that all the devices come with a charger cord and a year warranty.  (you do need to have a charger that plugs into the wall that is compatible with the cord i.e. smart phone wall charger) I have a few of  the eall chargers so it works out perfectly. I also like that even without the discount I used the products are affordable. I was even able to order the options of getting a free gift with some of the products (a replacement brush for Nova and a replacement pedi head for Viva). Like I mentioned I love good quality skincare products and accessories that are affordable.

Have you tried any Spa Sciences Devices. You can view their products on www.spasciences.com

Natural Hair Care Products from Derma E

Hello Everyone!

* Disclaimer: This post contains PR Samples provided by Derma E for review purposes. I would like to thank Derma E for sending these products. All opinions are 100% my own. Product information, courtesy of dermae.com

During my Target Beauty Essentials post last month, I shared one of the new hair care products from Derma E, Scalp Relief Shampoo and Conditioner.  Today on I will be reviewing that, and Derma E's Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner.

Derma E Scalp Relief Shampoo

This gentle, doctor developed Scalp Relief Shampoo thoroughly cleanses and helps alleviate symptoms associated with a dry, irritated scalp.

Derma E Scalp Relief Conditioner 

This gentle, doctor developed Scalp Relief Conditioner helps to detangle, soothe and calm a dry, irritated scalp.


Both Derma E's Scalp Relief Shampoo and Conditioner are fortified with:

Therapeutic Psorzema Herbal Blend (Neem, Burdock and Bearberry): Replenishes a dry, irritated, scaling scalp, helping to promote optimum scalp and hair health.

Tea Tree and Menthol: Helps calm and cool itch on contact and maintains scalp purity over time.

Salicylic Acid: Penetrates to lift away excess flakes and surface buildup.

White Willow Bark Extract: Anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties work to support scalp health.

Aloe Vera Extract: Contains enzymes that reduce dandruff by helping soothe, moisturize and promote the scalp’s blood circulation.

Vitamins A & E: Rich in antioxidants, these vitamins help replenish the scalp and hair to promote manageability and shine for a healthier look.

Provitamin B5 (Panthenol): Works to deeply hydrate and nourish the scalp and hair follicles for noticeably shiny, stronger hair.

These nutrients help to effectively soothe and nourish a dry, irritated scalp. Prescription- free formula. Safe for color-treated hair.

My Thoughts 

Since my hair is frizzy, it's prone to dryness. I have to use hair products that helps moisturize and treat my dry scalp. I've been using these scalp Relief and shampoo and conditioner for almost a month, (See Target Essentials Post) As the products state, there is an herbal scent, but it's not overpowering.

The shampoo isn't lathering, but the shampoo does get my hair clean and doesn't strip my hair. The conditioner is very moisturizing, and my hair looks shiny after usage.

Derma E Thickening Shampoo 

This invigorating shampoo is formulated with a unique blend of naturally-derived proteins, vitamins, and oils to create an effective thickening formula that making hair appear thicker and fuller.

This invigorating shampoo is formulated with a unique blend of naturally-derived proteins, vitamins, and oils to create an effective thickening formula that nourishes the scalp and hair follicles.

Eucalyptus Oil: Nutrient-rich essential oil that helps to support healthy hair texture, volume and growth. Eucalyptus oil serves as a calming and restorative agent by soothing dryness on the scalp and stimulating hair follicles.

Spearmint Oil: Helps to cool and nourish to support scalp health and healthy hair texture.

Provitamin B5 (Panthenol): Works to deeply hydrate and nourish the scalp and hair follicles for noticeably shiny, stronger and healthier-looking hair.

Amplifies hair for thicker and fuller locks, reducing hair thinning. Safe for color-treated hair

Derma E Thickening Conditioner

Enriched with gentle exfoliating Willow Bark and nourishing Peppermint Oil to help support a healthy scalp. Ultra-hydrating Argan Oil helps to soften hair while Biotin helps to promote healthy hair and noticeably softer, stronger and rejuvenated strands.

Safe for color-treated hair.

Willow Bark: Gently exfoliates, nourishes and soothes the scalp.

Peppermint Oil: Contains fatty acids and minerals that support healthy hair texture and thickness. This essential oil helps increase circulation, follicle depth and overall hair growth.

Argan Oil: Rich in nutrients and vitamins, Argan Oil improves scalp health and restores shine, strength, and softness to hair while taming frizz.

Biotin: Increases hair elasticity and strength allowing the hair to grow thicker and healthier as it revitalizes follicles and roots.

Develops fullness through the ends, reducing hair thinning. Safe for color-treated hair


My Thoughts

I just started using the Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner this week. The scent is the first thing I noticed about both products. Both products are mint scented, but the scent isn't overwhelming. As I shampooed and conditioned my hair there is a tingling sensation. I like that the Shampoo lathers well and feels very hydrating. The Conditioner add moisture to my hair which my hair needs because my hair is frizzy. After I blowed dried my hair, my hair looked shiny. When you have frizzy hair moisturizing your hair is very important.

Overall

I don't have issues with hair thinning, but I take extra care of the edges on my hair. Hairstyles that require pulling your hair i.e. ponytails, braids can sometimes damage your hair. I think this Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner would be a good preventative measure for hair thinning.

Overall I like both the Scalp Relief Shampoo and Conditioner and the Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner. Right now the Relief Shampoo and Conditioner have been my go to products. (See Target Essentials Post). I'm glad I have a back up of each. I will be switching to the Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner for the next few weeks to see which one works best for my hair. (I only used the Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner once since I received my PR Package this week) 

Have you Tried Derma E's Scalp Relief Shampoo and Conditioner and/or Derma E's E's Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner? You can find these products at Derma E or Target.

Be a Changemaker

Hello Everyone,

I really didn't know how I wanted to begin today's post. Unless you live under a rock, everyone knows about the recent events in the world right especially racism, and police brutality.

I ask ask myself what kind of human being would put their knee on someone's neck let alone for over 8 mintues. No one should die like that. We can't ignore things just because they're uncomfortable to discuss.

I've read things online about George Floyd's past. Don't let this man's past true or not deter you from the most important element of what happened. He didn't  deserved to die. He deserves justice.

Peaceful protests turned into riots and looting. Last weekend I was afraid, seriously afraid. In my State, South Carolina downtown was complete chaos. I was watching the new in complete horror and shock. Fires, riots, looting, all played out on live TV. I've seen riots before, but not so close to home. I wanted to share my thoughts about all of this, but honestly I had to process everything going on.

My hope is that all my followers and readers etc. Do their part to make a difference in this world. Respect one another, educate yourselves about African Amecian History, cease to judge as we all have flaws. We all bleed the same color, we are all created equally, but we are all not treated equally.  That has to change. As a black woman myself, I felt it was so important to use my platform to voice the importance of social causes such as Black Lives Matter. I may be a smaller influencer, but I hope by doing my part makes a difference in this world.

Zoya Splash Collection: Summer 2020

Hello Everyone!

* Disclaimer: This post contains PR Samples provided by Zoya for review purposes. I would like to thank  Zoya for sending these products. All opinions are 100% my own. Product information is courtesy of zoya.com

Summer is almost here, and today I'm going to share with you Zoya's Splash Collection for Summer 2020. When I saw these colors online I knew this collection was going to bring vibrancy to the Summer.

Zoya Splash Collection: Summer 2020

Thanks Zoya for sending over hand sanitizer!

  Splash Sampler A

Eclipse – Zoya in Eclipse can best be described as a glistening silver with holographic rainbow sparkles. Wear her alone for a sheer wash of glimmer, or layer with any Zoya shade to make a colorful splash!

Jodi – Zoya in Jodi can best be described as a pale ice-cream pink cream.

Emma – Zoya in Emma can best be described as a starfish coral cream with a touch of pink undertone.

Leilani – Zoya in Leilani can best be described as a glistening pink grapefruit with gold micro-shimmer.

Celi – Zoya in Celi can best be described as a sweet cherry red with gold micro-shimmer.

Greta – Zoya in Greta can best be described as a ripe tomato red cream.

Splash Sampler B

Kristie – Zoya in Kristie can best be described as a deep magenta popsicle pink cream.

Jessica – Zoya in Jessica can best be described as an African violet cream.

Maren – Zoya in Maren can best be described as a vibrant nautical blue cream.

Harbor – Zoya in Harbor can best be described as a tropical emerald sea green cream.

Fisher – Zoya in Fisher can best be described as a sun-kissed seafoam with a stunning gold micro-shimmer. A shade that is reminiscent of warm days on the beach.

Corinna – Zoya in Corinna can best be described as a naked blush with a kiss of golden sheen. A delicate and fresh - yet sexy neutral for Summer.

I really love the colors for the Splash Collection. These beautiful colors are bold, vibrant, fun, and perfect for Summer. My favorite hues are Harbor, Fisher, Eclispe, and Jodi.

Zoya's Harbor Nail Polish

Who says you can't have a manicure with a brace lol  

Right now I'm wearing Harbor on my nails. This color reminds me of the beach. Since I doubt if I'll go to the beach anytime soon I have this color to remind me of warm sunny beach days! What are your favorite colors from the Splash Collection? You can check out the Zoya Spalsh Collection: Summer 2020 HERE