This giveaway is open to US residents only. Don’t be sad, I have an international giveaway (jewelry!) coming ASAP! Please wait for the rafflecopter widget to load below & enter through there!
Big shoutout to Pureology, without them this giveaway wouldn’t be possible!
Hi guys! So I had a question about how I wash my hair brushes! Since I often tease my hair (it is super fine!) & have flyaways I often use quite a bit of product. I do have a new favorite duo for getting product OUT of my hair which I’ll talk about in a future post but for now this will have to do!
Your hair tools are so incredibly important, often even more so than products. As much as I love my curling iron/straightener/hot tools, nothing beats an awesome pick or the perfect brush. If you want to see a seperate post about my favorite combs/brushes then just let me know!
Before you even wash your brushes, make sure you get all the hair out of them. I like to use my teasing end of my comb to do this! Try to get every piece out!
The first thing I do is fill up my sink with warm-hot water. None of the brushes shown here are wood so I know I can soak them. If you are afraid hot water will mess up your brushes, don’t risk it. Just because I do it doesn’t mean you have to. What I do find is that the hotter water tends to separate the gunk off the tools much faster.
So I know a lot of people just use their regular shampoo which I’m sure is fine but I opt for baby shampoo. I often use this for my makeup brushes when I travel so it is easy for me to snatch it out of my cupboard. I don’t use anything specific, in fact, I normally choose the generic option. I drizzle just a tad of this over my brushes then dip them in the water quickly.
If I’m in a rush, I’ll just wash them quickly. I use an old comb to scrunch through the brush which gets it nice & clean. For brushes that are more in desperate need of cleaning, I let them soak for an hour or two. When I soak them, I put a wash cloth over the top to force the brushes down. If you notice, they float…but not so much with a wet wash cloth on top!
Another question I got was how often do I wash my brushes! Unfortunately, & I feel so unhelpful saying this, but I do it when I feel like they need it! I don’t have excessively oily hair & I do go through phases of using hairspray vs. gel vs. whatever. So basically…I wash them when I think they need it!
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.
If you had told me 5 years ago that I would be ADDING oil to my hair to make it look better, its likely I would have slapped you silly. I’ve come a long way & have stocked up on quite a few different oils since. I usually say my hair is normal but a bit dry at the ends. Its pretty healthy regardless of what damage I do to it. This humidity here in Nebraska though, gross. On one hand, I kind of like that it brings out the waves in my hair if I don’t style it. On the other hand…GROSS. So between the heat & humidity you’d think I’d be staying away from hair oils right? Nope!
From Maijan.com:
Maijan Pure Moroccan Argan Oil infused with Grapeseed Oil and Essential Oils is the perfect solution for healthy hair and skin. This miracle golden Organic Argan Oil helps soothe and soften both dry and frizzy hair and trouble skin. Maijan’s secret blend of the Organic Argan Oil infused with Grapeseed and essential oils gives your hair and skin a sense of pure luxury like none other.
This is a 2 oz glass bottle with a dropper. It will last quite a long time. The scent on this is VERY different from my other oils but I do like it! It reminds me of getting henna tattoos as a kid. The key to this oil’s glory is that somehow it packs in all the benefits of the nutrients & anti-oxidants while feeling incredibly light. Definitely a great trait in something going in my hair. This hair oil is a bargain compared to many other hair oils I have at only $25. It might SOUND expensive, but you only use a tiny amount.
I don’t have to use much of this Maijan Moroccan Argan Oil to notice a positive change in my hair. I like to add it to my tips usually just brushing & pinching them with my fingertips a bit. I’ve also used it on dryer parts of my skin which I’ve prone to & it adds back the moisture I’m lacking. Now, please do note, I’m not slathering myself in oil. End note.
I have given my hair an oil treatment but I really find that my tips benefit the most & it helps to keep my hair styled & not frizzy at all. In winter, I use hair oils to combat dryness in my hair so I’m sure this will be put to good use…if I have any left! I think I’d really like to try the Maijan Deep Conditioning Boost Hair Oil Treatment with Argan & Lavender Oil next! For more information about Maijan products, check out their website!
So I actually had a choice of which hair line I was most interested in trying. After much thought, I picked the Karité one. I’ve been using hot tools on my hair a lot lately (gearing up for tutorials, but I still need practice!) & I honestly just adore shea butter. Shea Butter smells so warm & nutty, & also a tad tropical like maybe coconuts? It also smells very sweet, almost a brown sugar addition? Either way, it has done some fab things for my skin, why not my hair?
From nuNAAT about the Karité Special with Shea Butter Line:
My hair isn’t exactly dry right now except at the ends, but the system didn’t over-moisturize my roots either! In fact, I think it kind of helped to “regulate” the oily-ness that summer brings my way. Let’s look at each product individually shall we?
Karité Special Nourishing Shampoo:
This is a lot thinner than pretty much every other shampoo I’ve ever tried. I think i used too much the first few times because of this. Experience noticeably stronger, healthier hair after just one shampoo. It claims you’ll be able to notice a difference after one shampoo & I think it was definitely more moisturized, then again, I also used the conditioner!
Karité Special Reconstructive Conditioner:
Again, way thinner than expected. It says: Apply to clean, wet hair and leave in for 3 minutes before rinsing. Most conditioners say 2 minutes so maybe the extra minute is what makes hair so silky. My hair was super soft, definitely moisturized!
Karité Special Deep Conditioning Hair Mask:
This is a really big tub, 17.6 oz to be exact! Directions say: Use twice monthly for deep, restorative conditioning. Works great on chemically-processed hair. Smooths and protects hair that’s been weakened with age. Apply to clean, wet hair. Leave in for 15 minutes. Rinse completely. Only 2 times a month? Wowie! Normally they suggest 1-2 times a week. I applied it about halfway down my hair then clipped it up. After 15 minutes, my hair was super smooth even wet & even better when dry. I approve. This isn’t thin like the others either & you only need a bit. It will last you a great while.
Karité Special Leave-In Detangler (Combing Cream):
Tames and detangles, making hair more manageable for styling. It only takes a small amount. Distribute throughout hair and comb in. Use daily or as needed.
I used this every time after washing my hair except after using the hair mask or when leaving my hair curly. I even used it on my hair when it was a bit dry, just because I love the scent so much! Plus, they’re right, you only need a tad. This will also last a good chunk of time!I also like that this is a squeeze bottle instead of a spray because I didn’t want to accidentally get my roots.
Karité Special Thermo Active Anti-Frizz:
Protects hair from regular blow-drying and flat iron use. This heat-activated styling product will maintain your hair’s natural shine.
I put a bit of this on my hands & kind of scrunched it through my wet hair before flow drying. My hair seemed shinier & again, love the scent. I didn’t use it for flat ironing but this will likely replace my blow-dry type balm.
Overall, I guess you can tell I love the scent! I think this line will be perfect for winter, when my hair is most dry. I also love how soft this line made my hair without leaving that “residue” type feeling or making it heavy.
You can purchase this line & other lines from nuNAAT at Walgreens, Drugstore.com & Sally Beauty which is where I tend to shop for new hair products.
** Products provided by PR. All opinions are my own.
I think I’ve made it pretty clear I’m a Dove fan…heck check me out on the Dove billboard! From body care to haircare, they have some seriously good mojo.Check out the giveaway + Dove coupon print out below!
Directions: After shampooing, massage a quarter sized portion through wet hair & leave on for 1 minute. Rinse out thoroughly. Use instead of your regular conditioner.
One Dove trait I seem to constantly be repeating: I love the scent of this ____ . Its no different with this Dove Damage Therapy Intensive Repair Daily Treatment Conditioner. It smells like a clean, slightly sweet conditioner that lingers wonderfully. I like being able to smell my hair & it holds scent pretty darn well! Dove products just always smell clean & unisex which I really like
While I can’t use this everyday on my hair currently due to oils, this is an amazing treatment with a nice bang for your buck. Its VERY moisturizing without weight down my super thick hair: Win. Plus, Dove products are always easily accessible to me, from drugstores to mega stores. Also, they tend to put out coupons which I also appreciate when trying something new!
I use this about 2-3 times a week. I recently picked up a clarifying shampoo which strips out all the gunk but also leaves my hair dry & sort of rough feeling. Dove Intensive Repair is the perfect 2nd step since it repairs the dryness & makes my hair soft & silky.
Enter to win a $1,000 Spafinder gift certificate!
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY
COMMENTS TO THIS POST ARE NOT SWEEPSTAKES ENTRIES. PLEASE SEE BELOW FOR ENTRY METHODS FOR THIS SWEEPSTAKES.
You may receive (2) total entries by selecting from the following entry methods:
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This giveaway is open to US Residents age 18 or older. Winners will be selected via random draw, and will be notified by e-mail. Winners will have 72 hours to claim the prize, or an alternative winner will be selected.
The Official Rules are available here.
This sweepstakes runs from 9/4/2012 – 9/30/2012
Be sure to visit Dove®Hair.com to get a coupon for $1.50 off Dove Hair Therapy products.
What I got & first impressions:
– Lipstick Touch-up swabs from Beauty Fixation: LOVE these! I used them with a red lip I totally botched haha. Again, heard some complaints about these. Okay, so they aren’t super exciting or expensive, but I WILL use them & I can definitely afford them. The key to using these on the go is to put both a swab & a regular q-tip in your purse. Use the swab then follow it with the q-tip to remove the excess.
– High-Gloss Masque from GLOSS Moderne: I did actually use this! It made my hair shiny & clean feeling but its quite pricey!
– Viva la Juicy La Fleur from Juicy Couture: This I kind of count as an extra. I hear complaints about these ALL the time. While I DON’T agree they are a deluxe sample, they are a nice bonus extra. I love this scent, a really nice fruity blend.
– Sumita Brow Base Pencil: This is so creamy! A really fab texture! I’m still deciding how to use it though.
– Although the Schick Hydro Silk Razor is technically an extra, I’m totally counting it. These aren’t cheap & I already have one I love! I will pretty much never complain about a free razor haha. Plus, this came with a $4 off coupon for next time, woo!
What did YOU get in your Birchbox this month? If you haven’t signed up yet, its only $10 a month for a box of sample sized items (sometimes full-sized as proof above!) & its a fun way to surprise yourself every month. Here is my referral link for Birchbox: Birchbox Referral. If you use it, points go towards buying more products to feature here on the blog! I buy these boxes with my own money.
As always, feel free to link your Birchbox posts using the Comment Luv option on my commenting system! Don’t have a blog? I’d still love to know what you got!
Yes. This is very VERY late. Why? Because I have 2 Glossyboxes & before I showed them to you guys, I wanted to know why? Turns out I bought one (which is the given answer since I have been for awhile) & was sent one. I didn’t know I was getting it clearly. The cool thing? I got one of EACH of the varieties instead of 2 of the same one. Full of win about that, seriously. I think this is like my 3rd month of GLOSSYBOX? Maybe? Either way I’ve been happy with it & their customer service has been fab. Shelling out $21 hasn’t been easy though, I must admit, especially when Birchbox & MyGlam have both stepped up their games. This month, both boxes were pretty great though, read on to find out why!
Here is the front card which is the same for each box, only the contents were different:
The Sebastian Color Ignite Multi Tone shampoo & conditioner are both packaged really nicely, perfect for travel. They both also smell great, that clean scent some hair products have. Haven’t tried them yet! The Alessandro International Pedix Heel Rescue Balm is a freaking delight. I seriously love it. SO minty & energizing smelling & works great on my constantly-sandaled feet.
The Figs & Rouge Lip, Face, & Body Balm has a sweet geranium scent that doesn’t seem strong but honestly lasted hours. I haven’t used it on my lips, but works great on my cuticles/elbows/hands. I haven’t opened the Blushed fragrance towelette from Ruddy Water yet because honestly, you guys have me scared too. I really haven’t heard many good things about it & my office is an enclosed space so…
The Senna Cosemtics Mineral Eyes Shadow (yes read the card, its written like that) Trio I got is in Satin Doll. Unfortunately, these are just not my colors but I saw some that others got that would have interested me. These are all mauve/raisin toned. Meh. They feel nice though, not chalky but almost too soft.
GLOSSYBOX #2 THOUGHTS:
I’m not going to repeat my opinions so let’s look at the 3 products I got in this box & not in the Glossybox #1. The Caswell-Massy Hans & Body Emulsion in Almond & Aloe is amazing, I really love it. These two packets were extras but I’m totally hoping they have deluxe samples from them in the future. I’m kind of an almond lover though, so perhaps I’m a bit bias. The OFRA Eyebrow Pencil in Universal is a nice pencil. I actually like the waxy base but if my brows were darker, I worry it wouldn’t be so universal on me. This is a tad dark so I use a light hand then brush it through well. The Senna Cosmetics Double Dose Lip Lacquer in Dreamglow isn’t something I would have ever picked out for myself, but its nice. The mauvey side is packed with silvery shimmers. The very golden pink side almost looks coral on because of those two shades. Both are pretty sheer & not long lasting. I prefer a more opaque gloss or a more sheer gloss whereas this hits somewhere in-between. Its noted to be moisturizing & conditioning but I don’t feel it doing anything special.
Overall, I would have been happy with either box. I haven’t tried the shampoo/conditioner yet but the packaging is nice. I’ve had a few people tell me the textures are weird but I say bring it on. I’ve tried some wacky hair products in the past that have done freaking wonders so I’m up for it. The Senna products were both pretty, but maybe the colors just weren’t for me. I see them as being wearable across the board though! Everything else I like so far, especially the cuticle balm. Oh, its a lip, face, & body balm? Right, well now its a cuticle balm. You’re not the boss of me.
The UK boxes this month had products from all over the world, kind of like the press box I received in the beginning so I’m really hoping our next GLOSSYBOX is fabulous. I also have a $10 off coupon on the lower right of my blog if you’re interested in signing up! Its pricey but if you like what you see, totally worth it!
So, sidenote…I love the Glossyboxes themselves. In fact, I’ve been saving them all because I just know I will use them for something wonderful. They are sturdy, classy looking, & nice quality. What would YOU use them for?
GLOSSYBOX This post contains affiliate links. By using them, you help to keep this blogger up & running! Like I said, I bought one box & one was provided.
I’ve had some choice words for MyGlam in the past, if you’ve read this blog before then you already know. This isn’t my favorite service & has definitely been close to getting booted off the list completely. This bag, however, I actually like!
Now before I dig into the bag, this card looks like porn. C’mon it can’t be just me…this card is…very late night.
Anyways! This bag only had 4 items, probably because the bag is different than usual. Personally…I don’t like the bag. It leaks glitter, is flimsy, & I have even less use for it than the zippered ones. Now onto the contents! I love Philosophy in an unnatural way so I am always happy to see them in any of my bags. I haven’t tried this gel moisturizer yet, but I am excited to slap it on.
The NYX lipstick is pretty shimmery but I do like it. My shade is “Georgia” which really had me thinking it would be a peach, no? Anyway, I like it but there are a lot of NYX shades I prefer. Living Proof puts out quality products, this styling cream will be put to use for sure. The brand Marbella is new to me, but maybe I need to look into it. This isn’t the blackest felt tipped eyeliner for sure, but it sure does last. In fact, it lasts & lasts. Plus, it is super fine at the tip & gets thicker so you can create pretty much any line you so wish. Swatched above & below the NYX lipstick in Georgia.
What do you think? Do you subscribe to MyGlam? I know a lot of people think these are a scam but this one was definitely worth the $10 for me this time!