Product Empties w/ Reviews #2

I haven't reviewed products in a long time, so before I get busy (with my last semester of uni!!!!!), I thought I should finally review some products I emptied out in the past few weeks. For my first post of empties, please click here. Remember, you can always click on the images to enlarge them. Hope this is helpful!

Veet Ready to Use Wax Strips Hair Remover for Face

After waxing my facial hair for over a year, I recently figured out my face broke out after waxing. I'm not sure if it is just this product that breaks me out or waxing in general, but I don't plan on waxing my face in a while. Waxing is painful at first, but it is worth it if your hair doesn't grow back fast. The wipes do help with the sting/ pain after removing the wax stripes and they smell nice; reminds me of Especially Escada... If you want to try this product, buy it on sale at RiteAid when they have +UP rewards.

For more info. about this product, please go to http://www.veet.us/products/facial/easygrip/veet-ready-to-use-wax-strips-hair-remover,-face/

Cococare 100% Vitamin E Oil

 

I have been using 100% Vitamin E Oil for over 7 months for my acne scars/ blemishes. After using this for the first 3 months in a row, I became a believer in using products consistently for at least 2-3 months before making any claims! I feel like this product has definitely lightened my marks, especially on my forehead, but also on my cheeks. This is very thick and 1 bottle lasts me a little over a month. It is a little "expensive" for the amount you get, but I don't mind since it is 100% oil and if it claims to help blemishes, I am willing to pay the price. I can't give this 5 stars though, because this might be the reason for the disaster around my eyes and a little next to my nose. My dermatologist says it is from this product and although I am not 100% convinced with the idea, since the disaster only started happening this past month after using it for over half a year, I will stop using this and see if I get any more dry, flaky, red, rashes. My advice, just don't put this anywhere near your eyes. I thought it would help my dark circles, but it just made my skin around my eyes more discolored...

For more info. about this product, please go to http://www.cococare.com/hand-body/vitamin-e/100-vitamin-e-oil-28-000-i-u.html

Montagne Juenesse Dead Sea Mud Pac

 

I am still on the hunt for my perfect face mask so I decided to try this one. The light mint green colored kelp and seaweed mask smells okay and lasted for one use on my face (it is a trial size). It feels light, almost spongy when applying, which isn't a problem. After 10-15 on the skin, I washed off all the product and my face looked brighter and felt clean! I wish this brand sold their masks in tubes like Freeman, because I plan to buy a few more of these to try and find my favorite! They are affordable and good for a quick spa at home :)

 



For more info. about this product, please go to http://www.montagnejeunesse.com/face-masks/mud-face-mask/dead-sea-mud-pac

Make Up For Ever Mascara in Smoky Extravagant and Lipstick in N9 Copper Pink

I received this sample set of 2 MUFE products from Sephora for my birthday in January 2014 and showed it in a haul post. I loved these products! The mascara added length and volume as well as some curl, especially if used with a lash curler. The product lasted a lot longer than I thought it would. (Don't worry, I didn't start using it in the beginning of 2014!) The light pink shade of lipstick has a slight smell which didn't bother me, and I loved the color on my lips. I still have a little bit left in the lipstick, but it is almost done :( This set is no longer available although the products are. As much as I would love to repurchase the lipstick in a full size, I can't justify spending $20 on it!

For more info. about this product, please go to http://www.makeupforever.com/us/en-us

Renuzit cones in After the Rain and Pure Breeze

I purchased these scented products to leave in small closed areas like my closet. I love this idea! Pure Breeze is my favorite of the two. I plan on repurchasing some more Renuzit cones to try and find my favorite scent in the brand. I highly recommend others use these or similar products to help keep small enclosed areas smelling nice without having to constantly spray aerosol cans.

For more info. about this product, please go to https://www.renuzit.com/product/cones/

Let me know in the comments below what products you finished up recently and what you think of them!

Product Empties with Reviews

This is another type of post I want to do more of. Basically, Product Empties feature products used up recently with reviews. So, I will do the same here. Click on any bold print writing for links and the images to enlarge.

Dove Dry Shampoo

 

Dove claims: Better style comes through better care. That's why Dove_® has reinvented its styling collection to nourish and protect hair for a long-lasting, beautiful style. Our weightless formula absorbs oil to transform hair from lifeless to bouncy so you enjoy style that looks and feels refreshed with a freshly-washed scent, even when you skip your regular wash. 

What I think: I wanted a dry shampoo that I could use in between washes, but this is good only if your hair has a lot of (natural) oil after 3-5 days, not every other day or it will dry out your hair. It smells nice at first, but can be strong if you use a lot like me (since I have long, thick, hair). This Dove Dry Shampoo does leave a white/ gray color on my dark hair, but after you massage it in, there is no color. This product is affordable so it it's not a big deal if it doesn't work out, but overall, I wasn't pleased with this.

Tom's of Maine Original Care Unscented Deodorant

 

Tom claims: Tom’s of Maine's Original deodorant stick provides clinically proven 24-hour odor protection. This aluminum-free deodorant stick uses the botanical ingredient hops to inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria to keep you feeling confidently fresh throughout your day!

What I think: I bought this because I wanted to start using a natural deo. Since it is "natural" it was a little more expensive than other deos. but if it worked well, I wouldn't mind. Tom's "unscented" deo. smells like ginger. I like the smell of ginger, but not on my body, so this wasn't good. Also, after I put this on, my armpits felt wet, which is uncomfortable. I like that it is gel however, and I don't think it is due to this that it feels wet because I have used gel deos. in the past and there wasn't any issue (except they weren't natural). This was my first Tom deo. but I bought a different one to give it another chance.

Bath and Body Works Warm Vanilla Sugar body cream

 

BBW claims: Fortified with our exclusive Triple Moisture Complex of conditioning milk proteins, hydrating rice bran oil and protective acai berry extract, this velvety rich cream provides deep, 24-hour moisture to soften even the driest skin. Our emollient, yet non-greasy, formula deeply conditions, leaving skin moisturized, fragrant and more beautiful than ever before.

What I think: I received a set of body wash, body cream and body mist in this scent from a coworker. I wouldn't have picked it out for myself, but it isn't bad. The body wash isn't my fav. since I got use to St. Ives Oatmeal and Shea Butter Body Wash. I haven't used the body mist because I use perfumes, but the body cream is worth mentioning. My fav. way to use BBW lotions is on my feet at night. After I lather my feet in the thick cream, I wear woolly socks and sleep in them. My feet stay moisturized and even smell good! I've done this with other BBW creams as well ;)

Black Opal Even True Tonecorrect Fade Crème

BO claims: Discover the solution to renewing skin’s natural radiance. Scientifically advanced formula featuring Skin Tone True Complex™ delivery system, a proprietary blend of Hydroquinone, brightening peptides, natural citrus extracts and skin-conditioning natural ingredients, effectively corrects hyperpigmentation, fades dark spots, and diminishes marks from past acne scars restoring skin’s even tone and natural radiance in as little as 14 days.

What I think: I got this after I read on http://www.paulaschoice.com/ that this is one of the best skin lighteners. I have spots on my face from acne so I thought this might help. I used it for about 2 months, but didn't notice a good or bad difference in my skin. I plan to repurchase this to give it another try.

Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizer with Refreshing Aloe

 

Purell claims: Kills more than 99.99% of most common germs that may make you sick. Leaves hands feeling soft and smooth with Moisturizers and Vitamin E. Triple action moisturizers. Economy size. Perfect for high traffic areas.

 

What I think: This might be a weird thing to add, but personally, sanitizer is an essential to have in the house and handbag for obvious reasons. I like this scent with aloe over the original, but it still works the same. I do buy other brand of sanitizer sometimes, but you can't go wrong with Purell once in a while. I hate the feeling of sanitizer on my hand even after a few minutes, so I learned to wave my arms back and forth to dry them within a minute or two for sticky free hands. Might look weird to others, but it works :P

 

I also finished some other products that I have mentioned on this blog already like Gud from Burt's Bees Natural Hand Cream, Clean and Clear Persa Gel 10, Burt's Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream, and Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer with Broad Spectrum SPF 15. Click the names for my reviews of these products.

Until next time :)

Once Upon a Time (OUaT) and OUaT in Wonderland (on ABC)!

I'm finally doing this. My reaction post on the winter finale of OUaT and its partner in Wonderland! To read my last post on OUaT, please click here. I never shared my initial thoughts on OUaTiW, so I'll start with that.

Once Upon a Time in Wonderland

Honestly, I wasn't excited about Once Upon a Time in Wonderland. After seeing the trailer of what this spinoff to OUaT would be about, I got the impression that it was too lovey dovey, basically not for me. I am not a fan of hard core romance in any form of entertainment, so I hesitated to watch OUaTiW when it first came out. But, I watched the first episode on a whim after the first few episodes came out. It wasn't as great as the original OUaT, but not bad either. Yes, this show is focused on love, which just goes to show how much of American culture is obsessed with love. Why did I continue to watch it? Besides that this "series will have crossover episodes with Once Upon a Time that will also involve a connection with the characters that are trapped in Storybrooke, Maine" (Wiki), OUaTiW got interesting. I like the idea of mixing and matching characters from different stories all together (see my fairytale mash up ;), so characters from Alice in Wonderland mixed with Aladdin was a new idea.

As for some characters, the Knave looks like someone from HP4 and the Red Queen plays her role well (ie. a snobby, spoiled Queen). My favorite episode out of the 8 so far, was the 7th where Jafar's past is explored. I had a feeling from the beginning that the old man in the cage with Cyrus was the father of Jafar and this episode proved me right. The Sultan really wasn't a great father. I kind of sympathize with Jafar for his past and blame the Sultan for the way Jafar turned out, hence the name of this episode "Bad Blood." Of course, Jafar's growing evil desires didn't help, but the bad influence from his father was the catalyst it seems. The family problems/ relationships makes this show similar to OUaT, which I found interesting.

Winter Finales!!!

On the note of OUaTiW, it is about time the Red Queen/ Anastasia came back to her senses. Of course, she did make big mistakes that she regrets, so she has to deal with the consequences like any other person. I loved how it ended with Will/ Knave taking Cyrus's place in the bottle. Not that I don't like the Knave after all his help to Alice, it just got interesting and I can't wait to find out his experience as a genie. I am curious to see how the Red Queen's reacts now that Will is gone.

As for the original OUaT, the last episode "11: Going Home" was sad. After watching what Regina went through to get Henry (episode 9; my fave episode overall from the first 11), the fact that she had to leave him to save everyone was unfortunate. But, I guess that is the price she had to pay for all the bad things she did out of revenge. From the "villains", I grew to like Regina the most. She did try to change for Henry, even if it was too late. I loved this show from the start, so I really can not wait till March for OUaT to continue!

Once Upon a Time on ABC Sunday @ 8/7c

Ever since I did my first review on a TV show, I have wanted to do a review/ impression of Once Upon a Time. The show is currently on its 3rd season, but for those who are not familiar with this ABC show, below is a little bit of the plot from seasons 1 and 2.

Season 1 (Source http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Once_Upon_a_Time_(season_1)

The show is based on the theory that there is an alternate universe where every classic fairy tale character exists—a world that has a loose connection to our world. On the night of her 28th birthday, bail bonds collector Emma Swan is reunited with Henry Mills- the son she gave up for adoption ten years ago—and takes him back to his hometown of Storybrooke, Maine- a place where nothing is what it seems.

Henry has in his possession a large book of fairy tales and is convinced that Emma is the daughter of Snow White and Prince Charming who sent her away so she would be protected from a powerful curse enacted by the Evil Queen, a curse in which she is the only one with a happy ending. It's because of the curse that everyone in Storybrooke is frozen in time with no memories of their former selves—except for the Queen, who is Storybrooke's mayor and Henry's adoptive mother Regina Mills. Emma refuses to believe a word of Henry's "theory" and returns Henry home, but then decides to remain in the New England town...and causes the hands of the clock tower to move for the first time in 28 years. As Emma stays in Storybrooke and soon becomes Sheriff following the sudden death of Graham Humbert, Regina's antagonistic attitude raises her suspicions and prompt her to move in with Henry's teacher Mary Margaret Blanchard, who is really her mother Snow White...

Snow and Charming reunite with each other and Regina returns to her mansion alone as Emma begins to wonder why no one is returning to the Other World since the curse is broken. Rumplestiltskin reunites with his true love Belle and takes her to a Wishing Well deep in the heart of the forest, a well with the power to restore that which one had lost. He takes the potion and drops it into the well, causing a purple cloud to emerge and consume Storybrooke as the Clock Tower strikes 8:15.

Season 2 (Source http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Once_Upon_a_Time_(season_2)

Following the curse being broken by Emma Swan, the purple smoke that brought magic to Storybrooke by Mr. Gold clears and the residents reunite as their fairytale selves. Emma, Snow White/Mary Margaret and Prince Charming/David try to stop the wraith from taking Regina's soul. However, Emma and Mary Margaret are sent through the Mad Hatter's hat and are transported to part of the fairytale land whose inhabitants were spared from the curse. The two later form a bond with Aurora and Mulan, who agree to assist them in finding a way back to Storybrooke. On their journey, they meet Cora, the mother of The Evil Queen/Regina. She forms an alliance with Captain Hook to also find a way to travel to Storybrooke...

With the aid of Hook, Regina attempts to put a plan in motion that will help transport herself and Henry back to the Enchanted Forest. Her plan revolves around a fail-safe that was planted within the curse, which if triggered could wipe Storybrooke off the map and kill all of its inhabitants. Regina tricks Hook, though it is revealed that Hook was double-crossing her in collaboration with Greg and Tamara, the latter two kidnap her. Against Neal's protests, Emma believes that Tamara had something to do with Regina's disappearance. She is later proven to be correct when Mary Margaret and David find Regina being tortured by the pair. Tamara then shoots Neal, sending him through a portal to the remaining part of the Enchanted Forest, after revealing to Emma that he still loves her. Greg and Tamara begin the trigger to destroy the town, though it is stopped by Regina and Emma. However, Greg and Tamara then kidnap Henry and take him to Neverland. Emma, Mary Margaret, David, Regina and Mr. Gold join Hook on his ship with his magic bean to follow them to Neverland and save Henry.

My Thoughts on Seasons 1 and 2

So what do I think of Once Upon a Time from the beginning? The show first caught my attention from the trailer. It looked action packed and who doesn't like fairy tales with a twist? I started watching season 1 after I found out they could be watched online on ABC's site! The season was close to the end, but I managed to watch over 5 episodes one after the other to catch up. Plus it was interesting! OUaT has a lot to learn about family life/ relationships so it is definitely modern with all its problems. There are some parts in the show that are inappropriate, so it might not be suited for a young audience. Between seasons 1 and 2, I think I liked the first better because the idea was new of course and had a lot of suspenseful parts. I really liked the backstories to different characters, especially Rumple's and Regina's/ the Evil Queen. If you missed either seasons or any episodes, you can watch them on Netflix.com or try borrowing the season collections for free at your local library!

Season 3!!!

I know this post is getting long, but the story doesn't end there. I was excited to hear that there would be a season 3! It wouldn't make sense to end the way it did in season 2. After all, fairy tales are known for there happy endings ;)

From the 4 episodes so far in OUaT season 3, I liked episode 3 the most. The addition of Tinkerbell was nice and included more of Regina's past, which was interesting. But, the ending was a bit weird with the revelation of Mulan having feelings for her friend Princess Aurora (Spiderwick Chronicles anyone?!) when previously Prince Philip seemed to have caught Mulan's attention...

I feel like Peter Pan is lying to Henry that Henry is destined to save magic. Didn't Pan want to destroy it by using Owen and Tamara from season 2? And although it is nice to have Hook on the good side so far in the season, I feel like he is a mystery. He doesn't seem to share much info. on his past, yet is risking his life to help Emma, her parents, and Regina. It will be nice to see a backstory of Hook to learn more about him! I think that is about it for this review/ impression post on OUaT. I might continue to do this once in a while, so check back for more. Also, leave your thoughts on the show for me to read in the comments below! Watch season 3 episodes here

Whodunnit? TV Show (ABC Sundays @ 9 p.m. Eastern/8 p.m. Central)

I was on a hunt for a new TV show to watch a few weeks ago and came across Whodunnit? Just the night before I found out about this show, me and my older sis. were talking about a Forensic Science class we took in high school and how much we enjoyed it. While I don't like blood and guts and seeing people hurt each other, I still like the mystery aspect of it all. I watched an episode of Whodunnit? and was hooked!

About Whodunnit?

"Whodunnit? is a murder mystery reality competition television series broadcast on ABC. The series premiered on June 23, 2013, and is currently airing its first season. The series follows 13 guests, one of whom is secretly the "killer," living in a Beverly Hills mansion named Rue Manor. They are guided by the butler, Giles who also acts as the show's host. Within the show's fiction, the guests, along with Giles and two maids, are trapped by the killer within the house grounds until they determine who the killer is. The killer sends messages to Giles to relay to the surviving guests, informing them of their situation and cryptic instructions for determining his or her identity.

Each episode, at least one guest is "murdered" (through staged events by production) by the killer, either while the victim is alone or through pre-arranged circumstances while the remaining guests are congregated as to avoid revealing their identity. After the shock of the event, Giles offers the remaining guests an opportunity to search one of three areas (usually the crime scene, the last known whereabouts, or the morgue containing the victim's body) to discover clues about how the murder was carried out. Guests are free to select which area to search though are limited to only one area, with a limited amount of time, and confined to the bounds set by production. Guests then participate in a riddle challenge that leads them in a competitive search through the mansion. The guest who is able to complete the challenge receives an additional clue that may greatly help in solving how the murder was committed.

Later, guests are individually taken to a private room where, in monologue, they describe to the unseen killer how they believe the murder took place and make an accusation as to who the killer is. During dinner, Giles presents a message from the killer. The message states which guest had the most correct theory and is subsequently spared from being the killer's next victim. The message then fully explains how the murder was completed. After this, Giles hands an envelope to each remaining guest. Those receiving cards with the word "Spared" performed well enough to advance to the next episode. The lowest-scoring guest, along with at least one other low-scoring guest will receive a card with the word "Scared." The killer may attempt to mislead the other guests by receiving a "Scared" card as well, though the killer cannot be eliminated. The killer will then eliminate the lowest-scoring guest(s) by "killing" him or her, in turn setting up the murder to be solved in the next episode. In the finale, the guest who survives to the end and unmasks the killer will leave the estate with $250,000." (Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whodunnit%3F_(U.S._TV_series)

What I Think of Whodunnit?

First of all, the staged deaths look realistic to me. At first, I thought the players were actually getting killed, but who would really allow that?! I also enjoyed all the episodes equally so far, but it is weird to learn all these ways to kill someone... About the players: Sheri was the first player to get "murdered". I don't understand how she got a chance at the prize if she was gone when it all really started... Melina is dramatic, but reminds me of a favorite high school teacher. Ronny is smart and his experience as a bounty hunter must have paid off to keep him alive close to the end. I least like Kam of all the contestants. He is bossy and I think he is the killer. He always has a grin and fits the profile when the murderer is "shown" committing his crime at dinner. Whodunnit? is almost over and I can't wait to find out if I was correct in guessing Kam as the killer and who will win a quarter of a million dollars! To watch Whodunnit? online, go to http://watchabc.go.com/whodunnit/SH55303214

The Taste: Tuesday at 9|8c on ABC

From the teasers that Influenster provided for episode 6, I like the one when Ludo and Malarkey are being sarcastic, saying they never fight and are best friends. I caught up with all the episodes so far, and Malarkey and Ludo are the most competitive amongst the mentors. Sometimes even more then the contestants themselves! Since three of Ludo's team members joined his team and not Malarkey's, they have been at each other even before the actual competition started. Watch this teaser here http://www.influenster.com/product_videos/the-taste-on-abc/5531

This week's episode, #6 Nose to Tail, was definitely the most dramatic so far. First of all, the contestants had to cook with disgusting ingredients, almost every part of a pig could have been used, blood, head, ears, tail, you name it! Gregg from Ludo's team had a bad day this episode. Gregg's area of the kitchen had a little explosion and he cut his own finger. On top of that, Gregg won immunity (he can't get disqualified) for the past three episodes, so other contestants weren't too happy about that and are even jealous. Enough about Gregg.

Diane is way too confident, almost arrogant, constantly saying her dish should have gone up to represent her team, team Anthony. When it came time for contestants to be sent home, three instead of two this time, leaving seven contestants for the last two episodes including the finale, some sympathy was shown. Lauren, the only one left on Nigella's team, was allowed to stay while Ninamarie, Uno, and Adam were sent home. Lauren should have been sent home instead of Ninamarie who got a number of gold stars in the past few episodes.

Can't wait for the next episode! To catch up, go to http://abc.go.com/watch/the-taste/SH55253383/VD55278803/nose-to-tail

Drugstore Beauty Basics Bundle Review #1

I thought I would start a "series" of beauty product reviews I recommend and would be helpful to others who are looking for something similar. The five products down below are basic beauty products that can be found at any drugstore i.e. RiteAid, Walgreens, CVS, even Bed Bath and Beyond. Hope this is helpful :) Click images below for a larger view and check back next week to learn how to save more on many different products! *Everything was purchased by me.

Clean and Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets

"CLEAN & CLEAR oil absorbing sheets instantly soak up excess oil and remove shine from your face, without smudging makeup or leaving behind powder. These super soft, silky sheets can be used easily around your nose and other oily areas of your face. Use them anytime, anywhere to remove oil and shine throughout the day."

 

PROS:

1. affordable

2. compact

3. gets the job done (haven't noticed if this removes makeup or not)

* For a $1 off coupon on Clean and Clear products, check out http://www.cleanandclear.com/coupons-deals-discounts

 

For more info. on this product/ to purchase online, check out

1. Clean & Clear Instant Oil-Absorbing Sheets

 

Burt's Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream 

"Give your cuticles some TLC. Specially formulated, this buttery cream taps Sweet Almond Oil and Cocoa Seed Butter to moisturize and soften your cuticles while Vitamin E and Sunflower Oil nourish brittle nails. Feel pampered and polished from tips to toes."

 

PROS:

1. smells like lemon, nothing strong or funky
2. nice "treatment" for dry/ cracked nails before and after manicure/ pedicure
3. noticed that it helps my nails grow faster than usual
4. 100% natural = no harmful ingredients
* I repurchased this 4-5 times in the past year, so I definetly recommend this to everyone.

For more info. on this product/ to purchase online, check out
1. https://www.burtsbees.com/natural-products/body-hand-care/lemon-butter-cuticle-cream.html
2. Burt's Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream

Neutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask

"Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask is a breakthrough acne-fighting formula that can be used two ways—as a daily cleanser or as a mask. This dermatologist-tested formula has the acne-fighting power of Benzoyl Peroxide to kill bacteria and treat existing breakouts. Cooling intensity builds as it penetrates deep into pores. Use as a daily cleanser to kill bacteria. Or use as an intensive mask for deep cleansing and extra oil control. Clean rinsing—skin is left clean and smooth."

 

PROS:

1. smells clean

2. skin feels soft and fresh after using this product as a mask (haven't tried this as a cleanser) 

* I recommend moisturizing after using this as a mask (or any other mask) 

* Check back @ http://www.neutrogena.com/category/special+offers.do?nav=%2Fproduct%2Fid%2F101004 for coupons on Neutogena products.

 

For more info. on this product/ to purchase online, check out
1. http://www.neutrogena.com/product/clear+pore+cleanser-mask.do?sortby=ourPicks
2. Neutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask

 

St. Ives Daily Hydrating Vitamin E Body Lotion

"Drench your skin in nutrient-rich hydration with this St. Ives Hydrating Vitamin E Lotion. Packed with the powerful antioxidants of Vitamin E, this formula provides immediate moisture, while helping to protect against future dry skin. Apply daily to maintain hydrated skin that looks and feels soft, smooth and healthy."

 

PROS:
1. affordable
2. big bottle lasts a long time
3. thin consistency i.e. not like a body butter but moisturizing
4. no parabens https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZbD4GOr7HWQ
* I like trying different products, so I would get another body lotion in this line.

For more info. on this product/ to purchase online, check out
1. St. Ives Daily Hydrating Vitamin E Body Lotion

Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer with BROAD SPECTRUM SPF 15



"A facial moisturizer plus broad spectrum sun protection, all in one. Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer with sunscreen BROAD SPECTRUM SPF 15 is specially formulated to be effective, light and silky-smooth—ideal for facial use. In addition to providing gentle moisturization for all skin types, it has BROAD SPECTRUM SPF 15. This gives you moderate protection against damaging UVA and UVB rays that can be responsible for premature lines and wrinkles. It’s also lightweight, fragrance-free and suitable for use under makeup or after shaving."



 

PROS:

1. lightweight

2. suncreen included (smells like it too..)

3. moisturizing

* For coupons on Cetaphil products, check out http://www.cetaphil.com/Home/Offers

 

For more info. on this product/ to purchase online, check out
1. Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer, SPF 15, Fragrance Free



The Taste: Tuesday at 8|7c on ABC

I just recently started watching The Taste on ABC and actually enjoy it! Since the 1st episode, Audition 1, was almost an hour and a half, I only watched that so far but plan to watch the other episodes of The Taste (going to catch up right after this post ;). I use to watch a number of cooking shows, even though I don't like to cook (I would much rather eat than cook :P), but it doesn't hurt to learn!

"Starring top chefs Anthony Bourdain, Nigella Lawson, Ludo Lefebvre, and Brian Malarky, The Taste has all the flavor of your favorite cooking shows paired with the fire of competition. Each Chef has chosen a team of four contestants to mentor through the competition, but when the time comes for tasting, they do it blindly."

From the first episode, I liked the fact that at least two home cooks were chosen to continue on the show, which goes to show that home cooks are just as good as professionals and you don't have to be a pro. to know your food. It's crazy how some of the contestants quit their job to participate in The Taste. Also, like some contestants from Audition 1 mentioned, the blind taste test gives everyone an equal chance to continue on the show. The only thing I didn't like was that some judges cursed. Just a little word of advice to the judges (and to everyone really), please don't curse to express yourself, especially since young kids might hear and will learn! If you could get past the cursing, I would recommend The Taste to anyone who likes cooking or food in general mixed with competition.

So that's my two-cents on the show so far. I may continue doing posts on my thoughts for each episode, if anyone wants! I might also eventually post on some of my other favorite TV shows ;)

Watch the most recent episode here http://abc.go.com/watch/the-taste/SH55253383/VD55274355/dairing-pairings

Cosmo 2012 Voxbox Product Reviews

I gave myself a month to try out the free products I got from Influenster for testing purposes. Hope this helps :)

First of all, the products in the Cosmo 2012 VoxBox included (according to the info. card that was inside):
1. FriXion by Pilot Pen ($4.50 for a 3 pack, $11.00 for 8 pack)
2. Forever Red Eau de Parfume Exclusively @ Bath and Body Works ($10.00 for .25 fl oz./ 7ml., $44.50 for full size)
3. Ghirardelli Gourmet milk Sea Salt Escape: $2.79
4. Venus $3.50-$4.50/month for blade refills
    Gillette Venus Embrace (refill)
    Venus & Olay Razor

 

I received a black and purple FriXion pen in my box. These were one of the most useful things in this box for me. I love that they are gel ink and erasable, so it is great for journaling without having to cross out all over the page :) Honestly, the pens are a little light, like the black. I compared it to another gel ink pen I got from Walgreens to show you all the difference (see picture below). I wish that another pen, like in blue ink, was included to make a pack of 3 for $4.50. Overall, these two pens aren't bad and I will get good use out of them. If you want to try a pack, check out Pilot FriXion Ball Pen, Erasable Gel Ink, Fine Point, Assorted Colors 3 pack: Black, Blue, Red (FX7C3001)

 

When I first smelled Forever Red, it reminded me of other Bath and Body Works fragrance mists that I have. Forever Red isn't an exact copy of other scents but to me, it smells similar to Midnight Pomegranate, Secret Wonderland, Dark Kiss, and Black Amethyst. What I really didn't like about Forever Red is the strong scent. I don't like strong scents, and this is definitely strong for me. If you would like more info. on Forever Red, check out http://www.bathandbodyworks.com/family/index.jsp?categoryId=17029796&cm_sp=FO-_-Body+%26+Bath-_-Forever+Red&cp=12586965.12587147

 

For religious reasons, I don't eat/consume alcohol or products that contain or are made with alcohol. According to http://www.muslimconsumergroup.com/search_results.html Ghirardelli uses natural vanilla which is extracted with alcohol. So, I did not eat this.

 

Finally, the Venus razor and refill. This was the second useful product in the box for me. Even though I prefer using creams for painless hair removal, I tried this razor and liked that it was really moisturizing and made for a clean shave. The rubber grip on the handle was also helpful for control. The price of the razor wasn't mentioned on the card, but seeing it advertised elsewhere, the razor runs around $8-$10. If you want to try out this razor, check out Gillette Venus Embrace Womens Razor, 1 Razor 2 Razor Refill Cartridges Kit From the 2 refills that were given, my favorite one was...