tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89195722617844751542024-03-12T18:40:13.028-07:00Beauty & the BibliophileIncluding, but not limited to, products, pallor, and prose.Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-28144656182076750022016-07-22T08:25:00.000-07:002016-07-22T08:27:22.699-07:00Cutex Advanced Revival Nail Polish Remover Pads <div align="center">
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I really, really love these. The felt leaves very little lint (but a little... it's not perfect). One pad did BOTH hands, which is typically unheard of for me! Before I used the last one (images below) I used the first one on red nails - and still did a great job!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rkzi7EvCufY/V5I5qfXy5VI/AAAAAAAABJ8/9034Vw15cI8OOUTJ7kTA9IeVjFzEWomWACK4B/s1600/feltpad2.PNG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rkzi7EvCufY/V5I5qfXy5VI/AAAAAAAABJ8/9034Vw15cI8OOUTJ7kTA9IeVjFzEWomWACK4B/s400/feltpad2.PNG" /></a></div>
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I love that there are "botanical oils" in this. You'll see why later.</div>
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So plush!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0YcvZdf2qns/V5I5qIXkihI/AAAAAAAABKM/HHECnH7Nu2IiVCDyDvnm9Shr_T8_1fIWgCK4B/s1600/feltpad4.PNG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0YcvZdf2qns/V5I5qIXkihI/AAAAAAAABKM/HHECnH7Nu2IiVCDyDvnm9Shr_T8_1fIWgCK4B/s400/feltpad4.PNG" /></a></div>
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Before - Sephora polish (really nude pink)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k4KwNEiO2m4/V5I5qLnQCUI/AAAAAAAABJ4/uc7YihveuaINwB7ytlqL9RXFryys70VsQCK4B/s1600/feltpad5.PNG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k4KwNEiO2m4/V5I5qLnQCUI/AAAAAAAABJ4/uc7YihveuaINwB7ytlqL9RXFryys70VsQCK4B/s400/feltpad5.PNG" /></a></div>
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After. They don't look dried out, right?!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RSI3jQGt7zY/V5I5qZOfVQI/AAAAAAAABKI/sgGkMvyTJvoU5VteKIUhVon1JU5y0hEbQCK4B/s1600/feltpad1.PNG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RSI3jQGt7zY/V5I5qZOfVQI/AAAAAAAABKI/sgGkMvyTJvoU5VteKIUhVon1JU5y0hEbQCK4B/s400/feltpad1.PNG" /></a></div>
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Thanks, Influentser for sending me these to try for free in exchange for my opinion!</div>
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#socutex #healthynails #contest #ad</div>
Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-79455472411968477232014-09-23T07:58:00.000-07:002014-09-23T08:54:45.880-07:002014 Sephora VIB Welcome Kit Unveiled<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Sephora VIB Welcome Kit!</h2>
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Hidy ho! One of my <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2012/12/the-sephora-vib-welcome-kit-unveiled.html" target="_blank">most visited posts was reviewing the VIB welcome kit in 2012</a>. That must mean y'all like to learn about it! I just re-qualified last week while at a JCP Sephora. I'm excited to learn that dollars spent at JCP now qualify towards VIB status. (They didn't used to.)</div>
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{In case you're <span style="font-size: large;">dying</span> to know - in order to qualify, I snatched <a href="http://www.sephora.com/product/productDetail.jsp?keyword=OLE%20HENRIKSEN%20Sheer%20Transformation%C2%AE%20P42342&skuId=958611&productId=P42342&_requestid=52060" target="_blank">Ole Henriksen's Sheer Transformation</a> and <a href="http://www.sephora.com/product/productDetail.jsp?keyword=BAREMINERALS%20Exfoliating%20Treatment%20Cleanser%20P202655&skuId=1318575&productId=P202655&_requestid=52227" target="_blank">Bare Minerals' Exfoliating Powder Cleanser</a> while getting a makeover for a wedding. I started my <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2014/09/100-days-of-empties-challenge-beautyblog-beautyempties-instagram-ios8.html" target="_blank">#100DaysofEmpties challenge</a> over on <a href="http://instagram.com/bandthebblog" target="_blank">my IG</a> with the Sheer Transformation review. Check it out!}</div>
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First obvious difference from 2012 - no physical kit*. (With a janky mirror that won't open). It's all e-mail and coupon codes now. Not bad - less waste, and you don't have to keep track of little paper rectangles. Just show the email in the store. At the bottom of the email there are directions for Sephora associates on how to process the coupons.</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">*Note - I am a) requalifying, not a new VIB and b) I was not in a free standing store. So, there may be a card given to new VIBs or folks who re-qualify or newly qualify in a free standing location (not JCP).</span></i><br />
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Note that I didn't get re-qualified for an entire calendar year but until the end of 2015 - <b>16 whole months</b>! That's nice!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kcBuNk8rehA/VB7_mdb_FhI/AAAAAAAAA5U/w-zfo7-aSAQ/s1600/Screen%2Bshot%2B2014-09-21%2Bat%2B11.24.29%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kcBuNk8rehA/VB7_mdb_FhI/AAAAAAAAA5U/w-zfo7-aSAQ/s1600/Screen%2Bshot%2B2014-09-21%2Bat%2B11.24.29%2BAM.png" height="327" width="400" /></a></div>
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Same as last year - 10% off next order for 30 days <b>and </b>free shipping coupon code for 60 days. I really love the latter, because sometimes you just want something for $25 + 3 free samples (& to maybe use 100 or 500 points for a perk) without having to add stuff in there to get it to $50. Paying for shipping makes me curl up in the corner, weeping; so anything to avoid it is prime. </div>
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The 10% off one - smarter to save for an over $50 order, but do it quick. With the <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2014/09/100-days-of-empties-challenge-beautyblog-beautyempties-instagram-ios8.html" target="_blank">100 day challenge</a> in play, I may have to spend some (breaking my rules) to not lose the coupons. But if I promise to not use it until I use the equivalent # of empties, will y'all give me permission?? <span style="font-size: large;">Please?!</span> K. Thanks. :)</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h2pksaM0MwI/VB78XbdUl9I/AAAAAAAAA4o/ihfrdUS1IWI/s1600/Screen%2Bshot%2B2014-09-21%2Bat%2B11.25.00%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h2pksaM0MwI/VB78XbdUl9I/AAAAAAAAA4o/ihfrdUS1IWI/s1600/Screen%2Bshot%2B2014-09-21%2Bat%2B11.25.00%2BAM.png" height="248" width="400" /></a></div>
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Free makeover (normally $50 of product purchased for VIBs, or free for VIB Rouge). And you can put your VIB card on your Passbook on the iPhone for easy scanning at check out.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ymYnYBnT-rU/VB78YY9x5rI/AAAAAAAAA48/v12HX2g3I9c/s1600/Screen%2Bshot%2B2014-09-21%2Bat%2B11.25.25%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ymYnYBnT-rU/VB78YY9x5rI/AAAAAAAAA48/v12HX2g3I9c/s1600/Screen%2Bshot%2B2014-09-21%2Bat%2B11.25.25%2BAM.png" height="248" width="400" /></a></div>
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I've never used this, but there's an 877 number for a free beauty concierge. And after personalizing my VIB account on Sephora.com, it recommends products for me. I've never really bought anything recommended. I already have a hard enough not buying everything other bloggers favorably review. I gotta draw the line <i>somewhere.</i></div>
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Here's the fine print on how to earn points, to re-qualify, etc (in case you were wondering). </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mRN41QIHevI/VB78YiuaRkI/AAAAAAAAA40/wjAJrEVNUyU/s1600/Screen%2Bshot%2B2014-09-21%2Bat%2B11.26.32%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mRN41QIHevI/VB78YiuaRkI/AAAAAAAAA40/wjAJrEVNUyU/s1600/Screen%2Bshot%2B2014-09-21%2Bat%2B11.26.32%2BAM.png" height="131" width="400" /></a></div>
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Now if I can just rein it in on my spending and not blow it out with these coupons! <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2014/09/100-days-of-empties-challenge-beautyblog-beautyempties-instagram-ios8.html" target="_blank">#100DaysofEmpties</a>, please help a sister (and her wallet) out.</div>
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Hope this helps! What are you most excited about??<br />
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<a href="http://twitter.com/bandthebblog" style="background-color: white; color: #e9bbae; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Tweet Me</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #565656; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> • </span><a href="http://instagram.com/bandthebblog" style="background-color: white; color: #e9bbae; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Instagram Me</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #565656; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #565656; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">• <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/5094425/?claim=2t9ushtqqdc" style="color: #e9bbae; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">BlogLovin</a></span></div>
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Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-65128293810528214822014-09-20T21:56:00.000-07:002014-09-21T10:32:18.558-07:00100 Days of Empties Challenge<h4 style="text-align: center;">
How IOS 8 Made this Post Happen</h4>
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Hey, Y'all! Where've ya been all my life? The real question is where have <i>I </i>been. </div>
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Busy. Work-traveling 80% o' the time leaves little time for the best parts of life = writing about all my beauty mania. I have no delusions that thousands (ok. ok; let's be honest, *<b>dozens*</b>...) of folks were waiting with bated breath for my next post 7 months later... Regardless, I enjoy just knowing a few will skim it quickly. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">{Gals, I am <i>fully</i> aware - and unashamed - that I'm super long-winded; so skimming is understandable.}</span></div>
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What drew me out from the land of the blogging dead, you ask? It all started with IOS 8. Yep. I'm generally fine with <u>not</u> updating my phone all that often, seeing as I have like 1200 photos. There's just never enough gigs. The hubs forced me to import them all and upgrade. <span style="font-size: large;">And then it happened</span>:</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PCDnQ8XDaX8/VB5VQCfZ0WI/AAAAAAAAA4Y/Y6k20wwBAKw/s1600/IMG_5801.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty and the Bibliophile" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PCDnQ8XDaX8/VB5VQCfZ0WI/AAAAAAAAA4Y/Y6k20wwBAKw/s1600/IMG_5801.JPG" height="400" title="100 Days of Empties Challenge" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><<<</span> Every #notd, #fotd, #bbloggers, and #empties post flashed before my iPhoto eyes; and I found myself longing for some more beauty talk in my life. It's like when you see an old friend and realize how much you missed her. You think: "How did I ever let us grow apart?"<span style="font-size: large;"> >>></span></div>
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On top of that, one of my favorite instagram accounts has been posting her #100DaysofEmpties challenge for a while now, and I just enjoy reading her reviews. Therefore, <span style="font-size: large;">IOS 8 + <a href="http://instagram.com/beautyempties" target="_blank">@BeautyEmpties</a> = "I'm baaaaaaaaaaack!"</span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Did you hear that in my creepy movie voice? Good.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Wanna know how good I am at reviewing empties?? Just check me out <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2013/04/inaugural.empties-NARS-MUFE-burts.bees-jason-flouride.free-toothpaste-giovannishampoocolorflage-ritahazan-buxom-linda.nichols-.html" target="_blank">here</a> (pre-detox days) and <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2013/10/all-natural-september-empties-beautyempties-blum-naturals-giovanni-pacifica-seafoam-tarte-bbcream-tintedmoisturizer-towelettes-klorane-dryshampoo-beautyreview.html" target="_blank">here</a> (post-detox days)!</span><br />
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<b>THE RULES</b></div>
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Simple: In order to buy something or use something new, something has to go. For the next 100 days (ending Dec 29th - the day after my big 3-0!) I'll post the empty with a small review to <b>help YOU</b> know what to consider or ignore on those oh-so-tempting store (or virtual) shelves.</div>
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<b>REASONS I *LURVE* IT</b></div>
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<< <u>Numero Uno</u> >></div>
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I have TONS (the <i>literal</i> unit of weight measurement) of product. Between my <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/invite/jg6dg" target="_blank">Birchbox</a> subscription (that's currently on hold to pause the sample madness) and past Julep, Ipsy, Ulta and (the<i> real</i> issue) Sephora orders, <b><span style="font-size: large;">things have gotsta GO</span></b>.</div>
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<< <u>Numero Dos</u> >></div>
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I struggle (it's real) to <span style="font-size: large;"><b>NOT spend money</b> </span>on new products. If it was socially acceptable to have as many mascaras, blushes, brushes, shampoos, lipsticks, etc as the number of nail polishes I have, I would need more room in my house and a better paying job. The current situation isn't as bad as some I've seen, but it's not superb, either...</div>
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<< <u>Numero Tres</u> >></div>
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It'll hold me more accountable to my <b><span style="font-size: large;">beauty routine</span></b>. I'll be straight with you... It's inconsistent. I've gotten better at washing my face <i>every</i> night (or using facial wipes), but the following serum, eye cream, then night cream (or daytime moisturizer and eye cream) isn't consistent. I'm excited to treat myself a bit better (especially with all the travel stress to counteract). I mean... I have <i>already</i> washed all my brushes tonight and used foot scrub and face mask samples I had today because of this. (And gave myself a mani... Uh-oh. #NOTD on it's way!)</div>
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If you're interested in learning about new (possibly, to you) products and whether I give them a thumbs up or down, then <span style="font-size: large;">head over to <a href="http://instagram.com/bandthebblog" target="_blank">my IG account</a> </span>and give a little follow! </div>
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{And if you're scared of commitment, then just for 100 days.}</div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Or, if you're adventurous and LAUGH in the face of commitment, then <span style="font-size: large;">join me</span>?</span></div>
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<a href="http://twitter.com/bandthebblog" style="background-color: white; color: #e9bbae; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Tweet Me</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #565656; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> • </span><a href="http://instagram.com/bandthebblog" style="background-color: white; color: #e9bbae; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Instagram Me</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #565656; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #565656; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">• <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/5094425/?claim=2t9ushtqqdc" style="color: #e9bbae; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">BlogLovin</a></span></div>
Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-54856807834463871792014-02-22T18:16:00.000-08:002014-03-15T12:48:05.980-07:00Nail Polish is the New Lipstick!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>My Second Giveaway!</b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">(2/22/14 to 3/7/14)</span></div>
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<b style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">***Congrats to Ruth for winning this closed giveaway!! I hope you enjoy these great products!***</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jeDT0JCJWG4/UwlVx8pa3KI/AAAAAAAAA1A/_nbNnFEYT0I/s1600/giveaway.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img alt="Giveaway!" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jeDT0JCJWG4/UwlVx8pa3KI/AAAAAAAAA1A/_nbNnFEYT0I/s1600/giveaway.jpg" height="400" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="400" /></a></div>
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My word... it's been AGES and EONS since I last posted. Life has been crazy! I started a new job where I travel 80% of the time, so I tend to post product reviews and empties on the fly (aka: <a href="http://instagram.com/bandthebblog" target="_blank">Instagram</a>). I've had this giveaway up my sleeve for some time now, and I have to say it's one of my favorite things to do!</div>
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According to the <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2011/06/30/why-did-wild-nail-polish-go-mainstream-10/nail-polish-is-the-new-lipstick" target="_blank">NY Times</a>, "<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Nail polish is the new lipstick</span>!" I totally agree. Anyone else have a hard time not buying a polish every time you enter a Target, Walgreens or Sephora? </div>
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So, here's to dolling up all your digits & doing it for FREE! I hope this means I'll be back in the beauty blog-world sooner rather than later, but we'll see...</div>
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What's in the giveaway, you ask?</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MlwGIaVyJlQ/UwlWF_rVAnI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/FXcSiugS2UQ/s1600/DSC01578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Julep Glycolic Hand Scrub Giveaway" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MlwGIaVyJlQ/UwlWF_rVAnI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/FXcSiugS2UQ/s1600/DSC01578.JPG" height="340" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="400" /></a></div>
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Julep Glycolic Hand Scrub ($23 value) - It's a facial for your hands!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lNH9SAcNJaw/UwlWKs4CDsI/AAAAAAAAA1g/bauDQWUgGVM/s1600/DSC01582.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Julep Polish in Melissa Giveaway" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lNH9SAcNJaw/UwlWKs4CDsI/AAAAAAAAA1g/bauDQWUgGVM/s1600/DSC01582.JPG" height="328" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="400" /></a></div>
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Julep polish in 'Melissa' - iridescent on it's own, or you can layer it over another polish.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GQM8mw-EbwQ/UwlWFPNudNI/AAAAAAAAA1I/JPRKIWGx1_8/s1600/DSC01579.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Julep Melissa Giveaway" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GQM8mw-EbwQ/UwlWFPNudNI/AAAAAAAAA1I/JPRKIWGx1_8/s1600/DSC01579.JPG" height="256" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mhg1drSkJtk/UwlWLi2PROI/AAAAAAAAA1o/mFRJV-dU36o/s1600/DSC01590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Sonia Kashuk Fall in Love Limited Edition Giveaway" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mhg1drSkJtk/UwlWLi2PROI/AAAAAAAAA1o/mFRJV-dU36o/s1600/DSC01590.JPG" height="327" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="400" /></a></div>
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Sonia Kashuk Limited Edition "Fall in Love" polish set.</div>
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Here's how this works... Do one or all of these things below and then comment on what you did. Each one counts as an entry (once verified). I'll plug it all in to an excel doc (my favorite program Microsoft makes! No... I'm really serious. I LOVE excel docs) and then do a random # selector online. It ends on March 7th! This is open internationally, too!</div>
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Ways to enter:</div>
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<li>Tweet this giveaway and tag @bandthebblog, so I can verify.</li>
<li>Go to my IG and share my image, tagging @bandthebblog</li>
<li>Pin it & paste the link in your comment</li>
<li>Follow Beauty and the Bibliophile on <a href="http://instagram.com/bandthebblog" target="_blank">IG</a> (put your name in the comment, so I can verify)</li>
<li>Follow Beauty and the Bibliophile on <a href="https://twitter.com/BandtheBBlog" target="_blank">Twitter</a> (ditto ^)</li>
<li>Follow Beauty and the Bibliophile on <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/BandtheBBlog/beauty-the-bibliophile/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> (ditto ^)</li>
<li>Please comment everything above you did + what you'd like to see me blog about next for an extra entry! :)</li>
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May the odds be ever in your favor! </div>
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[Wink... sorry. I couldn't help myself]</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wl4VrK6HWOg/UwlWHeHo4uI/AAAAAAAAA1c/R-8ZwFed-x0/s1600/DSC01577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Giveaway!" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wl4VrK6HWOg/UwlWHeHo4uI/AAAAAAAAA1c/R-8ZwFed-x0/s1600/DSC01577.JPG" height="386" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="400" /></a></div>
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Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-55397359722538788002013-10-29T17:32:00.000-07:002013-10-29T17:33:08.988-07:00A Beauty Detoxer's Wish List<div style="text-align: center;">
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Mmmm... I'm itching to spend some money!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qOm6OhpEleM/Um9Ck6gbCuI/AAAAAAAAAx4/E1CxDLFIyU4/s1600/big_collage_282356564.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qOm6OhpEleM/Um9Ck6gbCuI/AAAAAAAAAx4/E1CxDLFIyU4/s400/big_collage_282356564.jpg" title="Beauty Detoxer's Wish List" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>1</b>. <a href="http://www.sephora.com/argan-matchmaker-powder-foundation-spf-20-P305134?skuId=1392356" target="_blank">Josie Maran Argan Matchmaker Powder Foundation</a> ($34) - If you follow me on <a href="http://instagram.com/bandthebblog" target="_blank">instagram</a>, you saw that I did a #sephorahaul of my mother's last week. (Yes...lame-o. I was spending her money, not mine. BUT, she's a doll and it went on my VIB card!) She got this gem, and... I used it. Duh! It went on so smoothly (not too powder-y/cake-y... you know how those powder foundations can be). I currently use a mineral foundation that is specifically for oily skin, and this Josie Maran gloriousness stayed matte (over my CC cream) all day! I could feel the argan oil actually balancing out my skin. I've read reviews that say it runs out really quickly (one user said 2 months), so it seems a bit pricey for the use, but it was wonderful. And, of course, I love how natural Josie's products are.</div>
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<b>2.</b> <a href="http://soapwallakitchen.com/products/deodorant-cream" target="_blank">Soapwalla Deodorant Cream</a> ($14) - I like to jump on Refinery29.com every now & then. They had a great article about beauty trends that are done... All-natural deodorant being one of those trends. I can attest to that. I do love my Lavanilla (I rave on & on in my <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2012/12/my-beauty-library-december-favourites.html" target="_blank">first ever post</a>), but the hubs doesn't when it doesn't last all day long. He will make me put my Dove on before I can hug him... Ha! So, I was intrigued by seeing that this spreads on as a cream, and <i>supposedly</i> lasts all day... I adore lavender, peppermint and tea tree. Woot woot! It has ALL THREE. Plus, you know I'm digging that it's paraben, chemical, alluminum and petroleum free.</div>
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<b>3.</b> <a href="http://www.sephora.com/creme-colour-concentrate-P377410?skuId=1549146" target="_blank">Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Creme Colour Concentrate</a> in Pleasure Model ($20) - I've been on the hunt for a neutral cream shadow base. There are a bazillion out there (yes... I've counted), but as you know, I'm detoxing my cosmetics. I am interested in OCC; I've not used it before, but it's cruelty, paraben, sulfate and phthalate free! I would really like to see it in person, but nowhere near me carries it. I'll just have to order it online and return in-store if it's not what I'm looking for. Gotta love Sephora's return policy! I hope it's not like a warm pink. I need an almost-not-there pink for my albino skin. Crossing my <strike>fingers</strike> eyes!</div>
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<b>4.</b> <a href="http://www.sephora.com/super-mud-clearing-treatment-P376409?skuId=1473735" target="_blank">Glamglow Supermud Clearing Treatment</a> ($69) - Since seeing pictures of this mask in use on Pinterest of someone's gangrene-looking nose, I've been so fascinated. (Go ahead... google it or search in Pinterest. It's grossly awesome). Having struggled with acne my whole non-baby life, I like a good mask. If this wasn't $69, I'd already have it. Anyone else use this? Is it worth it? And, you guessed it... paraben, sulfate, phthalate free! It does have phenoxyethanol, which is <a href="http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/search.php?query=Phenoxyethanol&h=Search" target="_blank">scored as a 4</a> for toxicity on EWG's Skin Deep database. I'm feeling a little ok with it, because it's only sitting on my skin for 10-20 minutes max, twice a week max. </div>
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<b>5.</b> <a href="http://www.jurlique.com/products/e04/eye-makeup-remover" target="_blank">Jurlique Eye Makeup Remover</a> ($25) - Thanks to my monthly <a href="http://birch.ly/12ckIkQ" target="_blank">Birchbox</a>, I'm getting exposed to products beyond what Sephora carries. Jurlique is one of those new brands I'm wanting to get more of! I read an article recently about how the French have some of the best skin in the world due to their <b>toilette</b> that they pass down to their next generation. It's a ritual! And they're much less harsh than we are on our skin. So, after all my years of astringent and acne creams, I'm moving over to sensitive, kinder products. This remover is missing all those toxins I've mentioned before (except for the phenoxyethanol). I'm having a hard time using more natural products that still get off all my mascara and gel/waterproof liner. My Bliss Lid + Lash Wash is working great now, but when it's gone, I'm not repurchasing, because of the <a href="http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/substances/toxsubstance.asp?toxid=240" target="_blank">propylene glycol</a>. I plan to use my <a href="http://birch.ly/12ckIkQ" target="_blank">Birchbox</a> points when I get to 100 next month again to purchase this and try.</div>
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<b>6.</b> <a href="http://www.sephora.com/magnificent-metals-foil-finish-eye-shadow-P382314?skuId=1538529" target="_blank">Stila Magnificent Metals Foil Finish Eye Shadow in Titanium</a> ($32) - This is my "naughty" wish... It's definitely not natural (primer has parabens), but I got hooked when watching <a href="http://www.sephora.com/magnificent-metals-foil-finish-eye-shadow-P382314?skuId=1538529#ooid=R3OTV4ZDode4nDFQgX5dJiLJ4ftJd03_" target="_blank">this Sephora video</a>. My brother's wedding is in less than a month, and I'm wearing a gray/silver dress in "mercury." This will go perfectly. I had a Sephora employee demo it for me last time I was in a store, and it is so versatile and beautiful. But $32 for one eye shadow is making me cringe a bit... We'll see if I make this unnatural plunge... :) Has anyone else used it? Thoughts?<br />
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I know it's dangerous for me to read other bloggers wish lists, because then I spend money... Tell me if I was a bad influence on you! It'll make me happy. (Is that wrong?)</div>
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Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-14846711915540931702013-10-13T14:03:00.004-07:002013-10-13T14:20:36.375-07:00The All Natural September Empties<div style="text-align: center;">
This is only my second empties post, but I'm quite stoked! I'm really not good at using stuff up, so when I do I feel like I've accomplished something... That's weird, right? I also translate that into being allowed to buy more... Another way to feed this girl's beauty appetite.<br />
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You'll notice since my <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2013/04/inaugural.empties-NARS-MUFE-burts.bees-jason-flouride.free-toothpaste-giovannishampoocolorflage-ritahazan-buxom-linda.nichols-.html" target="_blank">Inaugural Empties</a> post that the detoxing of my beauty routine has come quite along! Since I've started blogging, my husband has been curious and slightly bewildered at why I have a special place in the bathroom cabinet for "trash." Ha! </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gE5-PpOzJv8/Ulr1ZPh2idI/AAAAAAAAAwA/k3AtaCLPLNc/s1600/IMG_3588.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The All Natural September Empties" border="0" height="301" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gE5-PpOzJv8/Ulr1ZPh2idI/AAAAAAAAAwA/k3AtaCLPLNc/s400/IMG_3588.JPG" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="400" /></a></div>
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Let's begin straightaway...</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-asdTTvxOpww/Ulr1v604nxI/AAAAAAAAAwI/cAEF0nDH4_s/s1600/IMG_3623.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pacifica Sea Foam Complete Face Wash Review" border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-asdTTvxOpww/Ulr1v604nxI/AAAAAAAAAwI/cAEF0nDH4_s/s400/IMG_3623.jpg" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="300" /></a></div>
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<u><a href="http://www.target.com/p/pacifica-sea-foam-complete-face-wash-5-oz/-/A-14405274" target="_blank">Pacifica Sea Foam Complete Face Wash - 5oz.</a></u> ($11)</h4>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">My Target doesn't carry this, but while on vacation in Florida I found this pleasant smelling cleanser. It has a strong (but not overwhelming), summery coconut scent - delightful! Pacifica is known for strong fragrances. It didn't foam up a great deal, but well enough. The charming packaging has a matte finish and is very pliable for squeezing out all the product. If it weren't for the remaining makeup after a wash (maybe it not foaming up a good deal has something to do with that), I'd give it a ten! However, I would have to wash my face twice. It's an issue I discussed in <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2013/10/burts-bees-soap-bark-chamomile-deep.html" target="_blank">my last post</a> on another natural face wash. Seems it's my new mission to solve this frustrating problem...</span></h4>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7rZdimyvmV8/Ulr1wdzJwJI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/oJT7ONJ5Yck/s1600/IMG_3629.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pacifica Sea Foam Complete Face Wash Review" border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7rZdimyvmV8/Ulr1wdzJwJI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/oJT7ONJ5Yck/s400/IMG_3629.jpg" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="300" /></a></div>
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I love that it's free of sulfates, petroleum, parabens, SLS, and phthalates. It's also loaded with antioxidants, coconut water, and sea algae. </div>
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So, I probably won't purchase again... Next I'm going to try the Willa Start Fresh Foaming Facewash with <a href="http://birch.ly/12ckIkQ" target="_blank">Birchbox</a>; and I'll let you know how that goes.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BaYJR4aJ_sk/Ulr2EdePW-I/AAAAAAAAAwc/G0oAP6ibJyQ/s1600/IMG_3591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Tarte Amazonian Clay BB Tinted Moisturizer in Fair Review" border="0" height="301" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BaYJR4aJ_sk/Ulr2EdePW-I/AAAAAAAAAwc/G0oAP6ibJyQ/s400/IMG_3591.JPG" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="400" /></a></div>
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<u><a href="http://www.sephora.com/amazonian-clay-bb-tinted-moisturizer-broad-spectrum-spf-20-sunscreen-P67617?skuId=759779" target="_blank">Tarte Amazonian Clay BB Tinted Moisturizer in Fair - 1.7oz.</a></u> ($36)</h4>
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I'm a huge (HUMONGOUS, rather) Tarte fan, so I was sad when I didn't love this BB cream. I should have expected the light coverage, as it's called a "tinted moisturizer"; but I still wished for more. Being typically oily, I should've gone with something more matte. That's hard to find in natural makeup, though. Even with my Beauty Blender I found it a bit streaky, not setting into my skin all the way. I also didn't find it corrected any red spots, either. It worked tolerably well, but considering the price, I am still on a mission for something better. I'm currently using Yes To Grapefruit's CC Cream and, though light coverage, am happier with it. I used my <a href="http://birch.ly/12ckIkQ" target="_blank">Birchbox</a> points and got it for only $5 + free shipping! Boom!</div>
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It is nice that it has SPF 20. And, as always, the packaging is fun. LOVE the wood cap, and that it's free of parabens, mineral oil, phthalates, SLS, and synthetic fragrance.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_9jRgVFSI9k/Ulr2eUwx7yI/AAAAAAAAAws/RlDvmbegAe8/s1600/IMG_3599.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Giovanni Brazilian Keratin and Argan Oil Blow Out Styling Mist Review" border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_9jRgVFSI9k/Ulr2eUwx7yI/AAAAAAAAAws/RlDvmbegAe8/s400/IMG_3599.jpg" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="296" /></a></div>
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<u><a href="http://www.giovannicosmetics.com/products/item.asp?prodtype=2CHIC&cat=2CHIC&subcat=2CHIC&item=2CHIC-BLOWOUT-4" target="_blank">Giovanni Brazilian Keratin & Argan Oil Blow Out Styling Mist - 4 oz.</a></u> ($9)</h4>
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I try to not wash/dry my hair but 3 days a week. I have very fine hair, and tangles plague me after showers. So, I thought I'd get a blow-out and detangling spray to help remedy that. I've been using about 6 drops of pure argan oil in my hair after every shower for a while now. When I used <i>this</i> in lieu of <i>that</i> I didn't see a big benefit. I would then combine them and still have a lot of breakage. </div>
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It does claim that it defends hair from heat, moiturizes for silky, voluminous bounce, detangles and banishes frizz. I'm, thankfully, not a frizzy headed gal, but I do need some volume and detangling. I didn't notice a significant amount of either.</div>
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I am going to try for a straight-up detangler next (while continuing the argan oil from the ears down).</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dyomnuYRurc/Ulr2pTd2u8I/AAAAAAAAAw0/Yjgbp3bk3HI/s1600/IMG_3593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Klorane Extra Gentle Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk Review" border="0" height="292" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dyomnuYRurc/Ulr2pTd2u8I/AAAAAAAAAw0/Yjgbp3bk3HI/s400/IMG_3593.JPG" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="400" /></a></div>
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<u><a href="http://www.birchbox.com/shop/klorane-dry-shampoo-with-oat-milk/" target="_blank">Klorane Extra-Gentle Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk - 50ml.</a></u> - ($18 for full size 3.2oz.)</h4>
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I received this sample size in my May <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/?raf=jg6dg" target="_blank">Birchbox</a>, and it took me eons to finish it. Not because I didn't like it... I'm just not typically a fan of aerosol dry shampoos. They always clog up on me, so I can't use it all up. Or, if they don't clog up, they run out quickly. I'd rather my money go further with powder versions that don't clog and last longer. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P3WRTMyKI-A/Ulr2sfn2otI/AAAAAAAAAw8/wSSVwU_1aoo/s1600/IMG_3609.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Klorane Extra Gentle Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk Review" border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P3WRTMyKI-A/Ulr2sfn2otI/AAAAAAAAAw8/wSSVwU_1aoo/s400/IMG_3609.jpg" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="300" /></a></div>
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This did work well, smelling clean and perfume-ish. If you've become a legit oil slick, this won't cut it. It's a super fine mist. That's when you'll need a powder to get the job done. It comes out white, but not so white you can't blend it in easily. I have dark brown hair and had no issues with that. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XlclyYspzWE/Ulr29QgZUAI/AAAAAAAAAxM/16IQNfZAqE8/s1600/IMG_3603.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Blum Naturals Daily Cleansing and Makeup Remover Towelettes, Normal Skin Review" border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XlclyYspzWE/Ulr29QgZUAI/AAAAAAAAAxM/16IQNfZAqE8/s400/IMG_3603.jpg" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.drugstore.com/blum-naturals-daily-cleansing-and-makeup-remover-towelettes-normal-skin/qxp393365?catid=183591" target="_blank">Blum Naturals Daily Cleansing & Makeup Remover Towelettes, Normal Skin - 30 count</a> ($7)</h4>
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I paid $3.99 for these at TJ Maxx, so I got a good deal. The best way to describe the smell is "sweet powdery cucumber." Super odd, I know. I'm glad, because I don't typically like cucumber scents; this one keeps from smelling like vegetation and adds a sweetness to it. In regards to washing my face, they did the job just like they should. </div>
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At first, I was in love with the dispenser, because some brands only have a flap that re-sticks down and doesn't always stick. I prefer these with a lid that clasps to keep them from drying out. After about half way through, the edges started peeling up on this one. I had to store it face down with something on top of it to make sure it stayed as air tight as possible.</div>
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My guess is I bought an old package on discount and the glue had begun to break down. When you peel it back, it looks like hot glue and doesn't go all the way around. Other than that, I loved these. Maybe I'll buy a newer package not on discount and see if they do the same.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-crrgM54cNbw/UlsGgovEVWI/AAAAAAAAAxc/FUvjg7Ct4aQ/s1600/IMG_3587.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The All Natural September Empties" border="0" height="377" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-crrgM54cNbw/UlsGgovEVWI/AAAAAAAAAxc/FUvjg7Ct4aQ/s400/IMG_3587.jpg" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="400" /></a></div>
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If you like empties posts, check out my <a href="http://instagram.com/bandthebblog" target="_blank">Instagram</a>! I do some mean #beautyempties, #travelsizethursday and #samplesizesaturday (or Sunday) IGing!</div>
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And be watching out for the giveaway I'm getting together for y'all! So far I can tell you it'll involve two brand-new Julep polishes!</div>
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Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-74651387407203517812013-10-10T21:40:00.000-07:002013-10-13T18:02:05.339-07:00Burt's Bees Soap Bark & Chamomile Deep Cleansing Cream Review<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Burt's Bees Soap Bark & Chamomile Deep Cleansing Cream:</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Mouthwash For Your Face</span></b></div>
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Well... hey! It's been eons since my last beauty post. [Insert frownie face]. With a new job that's 80% travel, I just flat out don't have the time or energy to keep up with this. But, it's all about enjoying it and not becoming a chore, right? Well, just today I was reading my <a href="http://www.essiebutton.com/" target="_blank">FAVORITE beauty blog</a> and felt inspired to re-enter the blogosphere with a review of one of my new fave things.</div>
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<b>{Next to watch out for...? A giveaway! I've got a real good 'un cooking up for ya!}</b></div>
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A friend who's aware of my pitiful product obsession and attempt at detoxing my beauty ritual with natural products enabled my problem with this gift: <a href="http://www.burtsbees.com/natural-products/face-care-facial-cleansers/soap-bark-chamomile-deep-cleansing-cream.html" target="_blank">Burt's Bees Deep Cleansing Cream</a> ($8). When she excitedly gave it to me, the best way she knew to describe it was to say "it's like mouthwash for your face... in a good way." I thought it was an odd statement until I used it... She's so right!</div>
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When I told her the next day what a refreshing experience it was she said with a proud glint in her eye, "You're going to review that one on that blog, aren't you?!?" I chuckled... but here I am!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PvbCRCdKRfY/Uld0FIH5TuI/AAAAAAAAAvk/TAdTqT5qsGU/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Burt's Bees Soap Bark & Chamomile Deep Cleansing Cream: Mouthwash For Your Face" border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PvbCRCdKRfY/Uld0FIH5TuI/AAAAAAAAAvk/TAdTqT5qsGU/s400/photo+1.JPG" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="400" /></a></div>
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If you've read my "<a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2013/05/peppermint-oil-sweet-mint-LORAC-origins-one.minute.manicure-caudalie-beauty.elixir-sally.hansen.mint.sorbet-EOS-.html" target="_blank">I've gone MINT-al</a>" post, you know that I'm a huge fan of all things effervescent. This definitely feeds into that fixation and then some.</div>
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Instead of my typical gel or foaming cleanser, it is a legit cream. Upon first application I almost felt like a "mature" woman using a cold cream (trying to be real PC here...), but then it started to sing (<span style="font-size: x-small;">no - not a typo; it says "sing" not "sting"</span>) and pleasantly tingle. Then I <i>knew</i> what my friend was raving about!</div>
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After you pat your skin dry, it just keeps on singing and tangibly glowing. Another plus - it's not drying at all. I have oily skin, so I was concerned it'd be too moisturizing, but it was <i>just</i> right.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m8WbkJ73X48/Uld0Cxfno8I/AAAAAAAAAvY/Q46whRDmVIU/s1600/photo+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Burt's Bees Soap Bark & Chamomile Deep Cleansing Cream: Mouthwash For Your Face" border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m8WbkJ73X48/Uld0Cxfno8I/AAAAAAAAAvY/Q46whRDmVIU/s400/photo+2.jpg" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="400" /></a></div>
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I even enjoy the <i>experience</i> more when using it with my <a href="http://www.target.com/p/olay-pro-x-advanced-cleansing-system-68-oz/-/A-13109555" target="_blank">Olay Professional Facial Cleansing Brush</a>. The combination of the menthol, rosemary, chamomile and lemon with the exfoliating brush makes my skin happy! It's like a spa facial, and it's so energizing. I love to spin brush my way into wakefulness in my AM shower.</div>
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Oh, and just look at these great ingredients! You can't go wrong with Burt's... so many good things all in one bottle, and even the fragrance is natural.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SbpovVjWbFw/Uld0Hd7QdgI/AAAAAAAAAvw/H4rdkmJ5qOQ/s1600/photo+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Burt's Bees Soap Bark & Chamomile Deep Cleansing Cream: Mouthwash For Your Face" border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SbpovVjWbFw/Uld0Hd7QdgI/AAAAAAAAAvw/H4rdkmJ5qOQ/s400/photo+3.jpg" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="400" /></a></div>
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I especially love the absence of <a href="http://safecosmetics.org/article.php?id=291" target="_blank">parabens</a>, <a href="http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/substances/toxsubstance.asp?toxid=240" target="_blank">propylene glycol</a>, SLS and phthalates. If you don't know why I care, I'd suggest a little research on toxicity in beauty products to help you make more informed decisions about what you're putting on the largest organ of your body!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i_r6lxU7-6Q/Uld0FCaq-II/AAAAAAAAAvo/Z2OFoB8Yftw/s1600/photo+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Burt's Bees Soap Bark & Chamomile Deep Cleansing Cream: Mouthwash For Your Face" border="0" height="398" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i_r6lxU7-6Q/Uld0FCaq-II/AAAAAAAAAvo/Z2OFoB8Yftw/s400/photo+1.jpg" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="400" /></a></div>
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The only con (and I see this with most of the natural cleansers I've used: <a href="http://www.target.com/p/pacifica-sea-foam-complete-face-wash-5-oz/-/A-14405274?ref=tgt_adv_XSG10001&AFID=Google_PLA_df&LNM=%7C14405274&CPNG=Health+Beauty&kpid=14405274&LID=PA&ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=14405274&gclid=CNCUhJz4jboCFSlo7Aod9lAAwA" target="_blank">Pacifica</a> and <a href="http://instagram.com/p/eSr5tRP0eq/" target="_blank">Jason</a> as two examples) is it doesn't remove all my makeup. I am still trying to find the best way to cleanse my face with natural cleansers. I'm either cleansing twice or using my <a href="http://www.birchbox.com/shop/klorane-soothing-make-up-remover-with-cornflower" target="_blank">Klorane Cornflower Water Makeup Remover</a> I bought with my <a href="http://birch.ly/12ckIkQ" target="_blank">Birchbox</a> points before the cleanser.</div>
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Ultimately, I'd say this is a winner and almost definitely a repurchase. I would never have picked this out for myself, but that's the fun of trying new products! </div>
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What about you? Is this something you'd normally use? Do you use any natural cleansers that cut through the makeup? Or what products have you tried that were out of your norm?</div>
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Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-41392763399756523452013-08-21T13:06:00.000-07:002013-08-21T13:06:52.567-07:00This Beauty Blogger Blogs Bananas<div style="text-align: center;">
Forewarning: </div>
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Just track with me. You will have the desire to downplay what you're about to read. Fight it.</div>
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So, we (husband and I) throw away a lot of produce. A lot. I might as well withdraw money from the drive-through bank ATM (since I never have cash) and drop it in the trash can. Or shred it. Or flush it. Or ask my dogs to eat it. I'm running out of scenarios here. But I know you're catching what I'm tossing. Moral: it's a serious fiscal problem in this family. </div>
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Recently I decided to eat cleaner and be nicer to my body. When your brother is getting married in 93 days, you start to freak out about what you would currently look like in a Matron (could there <i>be</i> a more terrible title? (Think a la Chandler)) of Honor dress. You track your food intake and take your dogs for more walks than they've had in years. Trust me, skinny ones, it's a thing of desperation.</div>
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Anyways, we recently had three bananas that were turning black back in that corner in your kitchen bananas go to die and potatoes go to grow strange tumors. That gross, mushy black color that makes me slightly gag if I try to eat it. (<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z8u2RNXknbQ" target="_blank">Kind of like Ron Swanson on Parks & Rec</a> when he tries to eat a fresh one).You know, it's like slimy yet gritty? Yeah - that texture. Blegh. I'm dry heaving just typing about it. Typically, my non-clean eating self would just happily toss those suckers without a second thought. But not now - not this new and improved me. I had a moment of brilliance (well, I saw it on Pinterest; busted) and froze them. Now, you may be thinking: "And...?" Come on! Just remember I'm a beauty blogger, not a lifestyle/food blogger. An appropriate dinner when my husband is mercilessly spending time with friends is a Lunchable sometimes accompanied with beer. </div>
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What I'm trying to say is I've never frozen ANYTHING that wasn't already in a freezer at the grocery store. Ever. (Minus water for ice). All those women who freeze whole meals? They're my heros. Besides frozen berries and venison, our freezer gets little attention. Last time I opened it before this evening was to get an ice pack for my achilles muscle on my left leg. This was due to my recent increase in pre-wedding-clothes activity. Newsflash about working out: that shiz hurts. </div>
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Wait, though. It gets better. Tonight I put one frozen banana in our one million dollar Vitamix I've never used. (The hubs acts like it's the greatest invention since... well, I can't think of anything mind blowing-ly great right now; but I know you're smart, and you're picking up what I'm throwing down). And to my shock and extreme excitement I discovered that I (yes, me... domestically challenged moi) just made friggin ICE CREAM! Yep, you read that right - <b>ice cream</b>. It was so effing good - with no sugar, no dairy, no preservatives, no nothing. Just a banana. It just literally made me giddy. I wanted to do it all over again, until I realized I originally did it to be healthy, not to eat hundreds of banana calories. But I will now NEVER, ever, ever throw a banana away again.<br />
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I still feel like you are downplaying this, Reader. It's a big deal. Just trust me.</div>
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Since I want to look like I know what I'm doing, blogging about things in a kitchen (and not my makeup bag):</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Banana Ice Cream Recipe</span></b></div>
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<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
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1 Banana</div>
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<u>Directions</u>:</div>
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Peel banana</div>
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Freeze banana</div>
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Blend banana</div>
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Enjoy</div>
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Impressed? Yep, me, too.</div>
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And because I try to be a good #greenbblogger, <a href="http://naturesnurtureblog.com/2012/07/01/treat-acne-other-skin-conditions-with-banana-peels/" target="_blank">here</a>'s an article on using those left over banana peels on your face. Who knew they could be used on acne, wrinkles, warts, poison ivy, etc!? I'll have to try that <strike>next time</strike> tomorrow!</div>
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Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-29748260122359737002013-05-12T18:12:00.000-07:002013-05-12T18:27:27.888-07:00I've Gone MINT-al!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I've Gone MINT-al!</span></div>
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About two days ago it dawned on me that I have an insane collection of all things mint. I've always liked mint, but not until recently, did I realize I was taking it a little too far, unintentionally.</div>
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I mean... Seriously?</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HmFuLyVjz2M/UZAsJs1EtPI/AAAAAAAAAqs/bxIaqNHyXyU/s1600/DSC01510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="305" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HmFuLyVjz2M/UZAsJs1EtPI/AAAAAAAAAqs/bxIaqNHyXyU/s400/DSC01510.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Organix-Shampoo-Tree-Mint-25-4/dp/B0032VJBWC/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1368403127&sr=8-3&keywords=organix+tea+tree+mint+shampoo" target="_blank">Organix Teatree Mint Shampoo</a> & <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Organix-Conditioner-Tree-Mint-25-4/dp/B0032VD9X4/ref=sr_1_2?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1368403323&sr=1-2&keywords=organix+tea+tree+mint+conditioner" target="_blank">Conditioner</a> </b>- $7 ea.</div>
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If you've been following me at all, you know that I've been slowing detoxing my beauty products. I've recently run out of some Ojon products I wasn't in love with and wanted to go with a healthier option. Besides Jason, Burt's Bees and Yes to Carrots, this was the only other brand in Walgreens that seemed on the safe side. It doesn't have any of the chemicals I look for to avoid (propylene glycol, SLS, parabens, etc), but it does have a long list of ones I've never heard about... I'm afraid to do more extensive research, because I LOVE the smell SO MUCH! It's a sweet mint smell that is heavenly. I really like that it has tea tree mixed in, as well, since I tend to have an irritated scalp.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bkxUmsXnNr0/UZAsKXoKe0I/AAAAAAAAAq0/5dXlhJw_WGE/s1600/DSC01517.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="335" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bkxUmsXnNr0/UZAsKXoKe0I/AAAAAAAAAq0/5dXlhJw_WGE/s400/DSC01517.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Pros</b>: </div>
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Shampoo is fantastic - smells great, lathers well. Would repurchase again.</div>
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<b>Cons</b>: </div>
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Conditioner leaves my hair feeling like straw and is very water-y. This is odd, because I actually have oily hair and tend to go with less moisturizing conditioners. However, I won't repurchase it again. </div>
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<b>Whole Foods 365 Herbal Mint Shower Gel - </b>$2.99</div>
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This product has no "wow" factor other than it's around $2.99 for 16 ounces! Wow! What a great price for an all around staple item to have in your shower. It is blended well enough with other oils that it doesn't make you feel tingly. I have a few other body washes I use more regularly, but this one is almost out, and I bet you my husband used about 75% of it.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bGALXzStSOo/UZAsK7j5DOI/AAAAAAAAAq8/cjWF19Js4pI/s1600/DSC01519.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bGALXzStSOo/UZAsK7j5DOI/AAAAAAAAAq8/cjWF19Js4pI/s400/DSC01519.jpg" width="367" /></a></div>
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<b>Pros: </b></div>
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Price! Smell. Refreshing; wakes me up in the mornings! Doesn't dry out my skin.</div>
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<b>Cons: </b></div>
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Doesn't lather extremely well. </div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/product/productDetail.jsp?keyword=CAUDALIE%20Beauty%20Elixir%20P6025&skuId=455774&productId=P6025&_requestid=115918" target="_blank">Caudalie Beauty Elixir</a> </b>- $18 for 1 oz.</div>
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Um... can you tell I like this a bit? I actually chatted about this in my first ever post about my "<a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2012/12/my-beauty-library-december-favourites.html" target="_blank">Beauty Library</a>!" Peppermint oil (along with citrus and rosemary oil) is one of the primary ingredients in this item I will NEVER live without. I have one in my purse at ALL times. I also keep one in my makeup station to set my makeup. Now that summer is around the corner I know I will use these babies up in no time. They're great to spritz on your face if you're feeling hot, sticky and yucky. You can spray it under your arms, on your chest, on the back of your neck... Anywhere you need to feel refreshed. I typically buy these at Sephora, but I recently purchased the third one through <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/?raf=jg6dg" target="_blank">Birchbox</a> with my rewards points. I only paid $8 + free shipping!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ed4-UFuhULg/UZAsLRI1LsI/AAAAAAAAArA/Ct3dohQEXH4/s1600/DSC01521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ed4-UFuhULg/UZAsLRI1LsI/AAAAAAAAArA/Ct3dohQEXH4/s400/DSC01521.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QfZaA_fwWAw/UZAsMHFi8ZI/AAAAAAAAArM/XwqD6tLdiO0/s1600/DSC01524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QfZaA_fwWAw/UZAsMHFi8ZI/AAAAAAAAArM/XwqD6tLdiO0/s400/DSC01524.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Pros: </b></div>
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Made without triclosan, parabens, SLS, propylene glycol, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, or phthalates. Versatile! Can go with you wherever you need a pick me up. Purifying.</div>
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<b>Cons: </b></div>
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None! (Well, maybe I'd save some money if the price was a bit lower). :)</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sweet-Mint-Organic-Balm-Sphere/dp/B003ND183O/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1368404450&sr=8-13&keywords=eos+lip+balm" target="_blank">EOS Lip Balm in Sweet Mint</a> </b>- $6</div>
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If you read my post about my myriad of favorite <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2013/04/kissable-lips-lip-balms-burtsbees-wholefoods-nuxe-revdemiel-eos-bagbalm-lip-products-lippies.html" target="_blank">lip balms</a>, you know I'm a fan of EOS. (What beauty blogger isn't?) So, I HAD to get this flavor! I just love holding this little guy. I actually bought it on Easter Day for my very own little Easter egg.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JoBLtouEAE8/UZAsMqpVh8I/AAAAAAAAArU/QfeKMlKj4K4/s1600/DSC01528.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JoBLtouEAE8/UZAsMqpVh8I/AAAAAAAAArU/QfeKMlKj4K4/s400/DSC01528.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Pros: </b></div>
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Great flavor! No toxic chemicals. Sweetened with stevia! Very moisturizing. Fun shape & fun to apply!</div>
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<b>Cons: </b></div>
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Not as thick as most balms (probably to get it to stay in that round shape). A little expensive for a chapstick. You're paying for the shape.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/sensory-therapy-peace-of-mind-on-the-spot-relief-P308102?skuId=1394360" target="_blank">Origins Sensory Therapy Peace of Mind</a> </b>- $12</div>
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I featured this on my <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2013/01/sephoracom-haul.html" target="_blank">Sephora Haul</a> post in January and have gone straight to it for a bit of relaxation many times since! Unlike many of the mint items mentioned so far, this really does tingle and effervesce! You can <i>feel</i> it. Sometimes before bed or whenever I need to unwind, I put a dab on my earlobes, back of my neck and on my forehead. (I have also tried my temples, but my eyes couldn't handle being that close to the mint emissions).</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5g_-IEzV_nE/UZAsND81DcI/AAAAAAAAArc/Hg2Wq1qbPTQ/s1600/DSC01531.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="352" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5g_-IEzV_nE/UZAsND81DcI/AAAAAAAAArc/Hg2Wq1qbPTQ/s400/DSC01531.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Pros: </b></div>
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Soothing. A little goes a LONG way. Strong and potent. </div>
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<b>Cons: </b></div>
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Could sting your eyes if you're sensitive. Also, smell could be too intense for someone sensitive. I personally like it.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/One-Minute-Manicure-Classic-Mint/dp/B000X5REO2/ref=sr_1_1_m?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1368405063&sr=1-1&keywords=one+minute+manicure" target="_blank">One Minute Manicure</a> - $5</b></div>
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Back in the day we used to sell this little gem in the Merle Norman/Brighton store I worked in with my best friend and her mom. We only had the larger sizes (which are like $9 and $34) and we couldn't keep them on the shelves. We had a sink that we would walk women straight over to to sample this, and they'd always walk out with at least one of these goodies. Basically, it's a hand/cuticle/nail scrub. The sugar/granules settle to the bottom and the oils (with significant amount of peppermint oil) are at the top. You scoop it out and rub a little of the mixture all over your cuticles for about a minute and you have smooth, soft, refreshed skin. When I spotted this at Trade Secret on sale I JUMPED on it! It brought back fun memories of my days as a Merle Norman makeup saleswoman.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-36OqgfPI09g/UZAsN1aTyII/AAAAAAAAArk/arA0cAefewE/s1600/DSC01532.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-36OqgfPI09g/UZAsN1aTyII/AAAAAAAAArk/arA0cAefewE/s400/DSC01532.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3_0zYWCBKf0/UZAsPO2VL9I/AAAAAAAAArs/jyfXFNCcquc/s1600/DSC01533.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="313" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3_0zYWCBKf0/UZAsPO2VL9I/AAAAAAAAArs/jyfXFNCcquc/s400/DSC01533.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Pros: </b></div>
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Lasts a long time. Works great! Smells yum.</div>
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<b>Cons: </b></div>
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A bit messy - definitely do it over a sink. Contains parabens & artificial fragrance. (Big boo!) </div>
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<b><a href="http://www.target.com/p/sally-hansen-xtreme-wear-nail-color-mint-sorbet/-/A-13332771#prodSlot=medium_1_2&term=sally+hansen+mint" target="_blank">Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear Nail Color in Mint Sorbet</a></b> - $2.36</div>
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After seeing all the beautiful nails wearing Chanel's mint polish, I chose to go with the cheap version. So far I've been pretty happy with it! It's cheap, and I love the color. Every time I wear it I get a ton of compliments. I have it on here, but I put silver glitter over it to prolong a 6 day gelous manicure. My goal is to get to 10 days with no chips!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XyQ8_PNsiF0/UZAsPD9kfTI/AAAAAAAAAr0/afS9tXZLMPU/s1600/DSC01534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XyQ8_PNsiF0/UZAsPD9kfTI/AAAAAAAAAr0/afS9tXZLMPU/s320/DSC01534.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QUnoJxr9OwA/UZAsPbbtxQI/AAAAAAAAArw/-WJs_vyMC28/s1600/DSC01535.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QUnoJxr9OwA/UZAsPbbtxQI/AAAAAAAAArw/-WJs_vyMC28/s320/DSC01535.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Pros: </b></div>
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Fun spring color! Dries quickly. Cheap!</div>
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<b>Cons: </b></div>
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Goes on super thick and can get lumpy fast. I have to put it on in many thin layers to keep it from getting squishy. Who hates having sheet marks the next morning after you thought it had dried 6 hours later?? Doesn't have one of those "beads" in it, so when it settles I can't get it to mix back up.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.youngliving.com/essential-oils/Peppermint" target="_blank">Young Living Peppermint Oil</a></b>- $25</div>
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You can find thousands of products that contain peppermint oil, but there is nothing like having the real, living, pure thing. Young Living is a great company that sells oils still living that can be ingestible. Most oils (even at Whole Foods) are typically sold for aromatherapy purposes, only, and cannot be ingested. Young Living's oils can be. Peppermint Oil has been known as the world's oldest medicine. It helps with concentration, alertness, the digestive system, blood circulation, kills bacteria, soothes skin and much more. </div>
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This stuff is potent! I once put one drop in a cup of tea and couldn't drink it, because the steam stung my eyes so much. I now recommend sticking with cold beverages if you want to be able to see. If you're like me and have a hard time getting your 8 cups of H20 in a day, put one or two drops of this in it, and it's more refreshing and tastes better. I once read an article of a hiker who put it in his Nalgene bottles to keep up his energy, since it causes your blood to circulate quicker. I've also put a drop or two on a hot rag to apply to sore muscles. There are SO MANY uses!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L4FJPjZwycA/UZAsRMVAJ5I/AAAAAAAAAsE/qeCKiHZ7_qM/s1600/DSC01536.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L4FJPjZwycA/UZAsRMVAJ5I/AAAAAAAAAsE/qeCKiHZ7_qM/s400/DSC01536.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nm8eDM-B5lA/UZAsR-EjhJI/AAAAAAAAAsM/1t_gNOwXXp8/s1600/DSC01539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nm8eDM-B5lA/UZAsR-EjhJI/AAAAAAAAAsM/1t_gNOwXXp8/s400/DSC01539.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Pros: </b></div>
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A ton! I encourage you to read up on all the health benefits!</div>
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<b>Cons: </b></div>
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None really, other than the cost is a bit high.</div>
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And now for my favorite mint product...!</div>
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<a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?skuId=2253468&productId=xlsImpprod5000011&navAction=push&navCount=1&subdoc=4top10aquaticeye&categoryId=cat80045%20cat260010" target="_blank">LORAC Mint Edition Collection</a> - $36</div>
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Let's be honest. I have an obsession with LORAC palettes. When I saw this one in Ulta, I couldn't imagine how I could walk out without it. If you read my review of the <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2012/12/is-lorac-underrated-lorac-pro-palette.html" target="_blank">Pro Palette</a> then you know how I adore their eye shadows. </div>
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They're like buttah!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RtD6B_ABSLo/UZAsSN-Tw6I/AAAAAAAAAsQ/jqgfL2QHzhM/s1600/DSC01540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RtD6B_ABSLo/UZAsSN-Tw6I/AAAAAAAAAsQ/jqgfL2QHzhM/s400/DSC01540.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is the first palette I've purchased that didn't come with the glorious eye primer. But it did come with a gloss that I kinda like. It also came with a shimmery, chain-ish silver makeup bag/clutch that is "ok." I really just care about these eye shadows.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nOd0tF00JC0/UZAsTcUpShI/AAAAAAAAAsc/u8wS83AxqU4/s1600/DSC01542.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nOd0tF00JC0/UZAsTcUpShI/AAAAAAAAAsc/u8wS83AxqU4/s400/DSC01542.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Instead of being all matte on the top and shimmer on the bottom. The top left matte has some glitter specks in it, where as the top two on the right are purely matte. The bottom three are shimmery. I mean, aren't they beautiful!?</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eTUKH8PcWOo/UZAsUAHh0QI/AAAAAAAAAsk/o2Y6dZzt5bo/s1600/DSC01544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eTUKH8PcWOo/UZAsUAHh0QI/AAAAAAAAAsk/o2Y6dZzt5bo/s400/DSC01544.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Pros: </b></div>
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Price. Mixture of shimmer and matte. Beautiful, bright blush. Great spring palette with cool tones. Fantastic packaging.</div>
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<b>Cons: </b></div>
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Wish instead of a gloss I got another eye shadow primer.</div>
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Wow! I just realized HOW.MANY.MINT.PRODUCTS I just talked about. It's truly mental. </div>
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What about you? Are you obsessed with coral shades? Lavender scented everything? Vanilla? Please share and make me feel less crazy!</div>
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Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-18532035707902834642013-04-28T08:09:00.000-07:002013-04-28T08:09:53.043-07:00Metal Tube Wringer - My New Fave Invention<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Look at this! I'm not sure why finding this made me as ecstatic as I am, but alas... I'm easily amused when it comes to something that combines beauty and organization. And it's kind of cute, like an old fashioned wind up toy. I find it neat that Gill Mechanical Company started manufacturing these in the 1970s, and they're still going strong!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hgKwg2sguSc/UX0zxIzv7XI/AAAAAAAAApc/lwnMTgyqRDI/s1600/IMG_2456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="341" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hgKwg2sguSc/UX0zxIzv7XI/AAAAAAAAApc/lwnMTgyqRDI/s400/IMG_2456.JPG" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile - The Metal Tube Wringer" width="400" /></a></div>
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This metal tube wringer was $23 on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Metal-Tube-Wringer/dp/B0049V35GW/ref=sr_1_2?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1367159882&sr=1-2&keywords=tube+wringer" target="_blank">Amazon</a>, and I'm VERY excited about it. Basically, it's meant for painters to use on metal tubes of paint. However, it works just as well on tubes of toothpaste, lotion, eye cream, etc. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ecUABKoax7Y/UX01NKAhclI/AAAAAAAAApo/gkULS0TbYt4/s1600/IMG_2453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="260" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ecUABKoax7Y/UX01NKAhclI/AAAAAAAAApo/gkULS0TbYt4/s400/IMG_2453.jpg" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile - The Metal Tube Wringer" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aHpYStqUDzQ/UX01NdcWejI/AAAAAAAAApw/fMJHwyDMjIk/s1600/IMG_2454.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="285" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aHpYStqUDzQ/UX01NdcWejI/AAAAAAAAApw/fMJHwyDMjIk/s400/IMG_2454.JPG" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile - The Metal Tube Wringer" width="400" /></a></div>
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You open it up, put the edge of the tube in the "teeth" of the wheels, close the clamp and wring away!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGA2g4xx0wQ/UX01uUTSuZI/AAAAAAAAAp4/RDdT_brYSjM/s1600/IMG_2457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGA2g4xx0wQ/UX01uUTSuZI/AAAAAAAAAp4/RDdT_brYSjM/s400/IMG_2457.JPG" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile - The Metal Tube Wringer" width="300" /></a></div>
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I mean, isn't that just gorgeous!? I used to ogle over all the beautifully wrung samples of Weleda, Acure and Suki at Whole Body, and now I can do it on my own!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UKP5Ud38tHY/UX01vI_t4mI/AAAAAAAAAqA/ZRzzNi4oDxI/s1600/IMG_2466.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UKP5Ud38tHY/UX01vI_t4mI/AAAAAAAAAqA/ZRzzNi4oDxI/s400/IMG_2466.jpg" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile - The Metal Tube Wringer" width="311" /></a></div>
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The only disappointing thing was when it wouldn't work on some of my plastic tubes; observe my failed attempt on the <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2013/04/inaugural.empties-NARS-MUFE-burts.bees-jason-flouride.free-toothpaste-giovannishampoocolorflage-ritahazan-buxom-linda.nichols-.html" target="_blank">Whish Shave Cream</a> from my <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/?raf=jg6dg" target="_blank">Birchbox</a>.</div>
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This was my favorite tube to wring! And I do love this <a href="http://www.sephora.com/foot-beauty-cream-P282122?om_mmc=Googlepla,_requestid=42976,cm_mmc=us_search-_-GG-_-pla-_-,ci_src=17588969,ci_sku=1321181" target="_blank">Caudalie Foot Beauty Cream</a>. It's not super thick and as creamy as most, but it feels very moisturizing. It also contains no parabens, phthalates, petrochemicals, triclosan or GMOs. Right up my alley!</div>
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What are your favorite organizational accessories and/or tools?</div>
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Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-40706128314345358562013-04-21T14:55:00.000-07:002013-04-28T08:12:35.415-07:00The Inaugural Empties<div style="text-align: center;">
Since beginning this beauty blogging journey in <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2012/12/is-lorac-underrated-lorac-pro-palette.html" target="_blank">December</a>, I've been saving up my empties to join all the other bloggers who intrigue readers with their... trash? Yep! We're a weird bunch like that. I'll be honest... I have been saving them up for four months and have a <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/?raf=jg6dg" target="_blank">Birchbox</a> box overflowing with beauty refuse. These are just a sprinkling of all the empties I have. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--9IIhpnZyRY/UXRAq-JAEsI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/IqOI7GHsiiE/s1600/IMG_2429.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Inaugural Empties" border="0" height="380" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--9IIhpnZyRY/UXRAq-JAEsI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/IqOI7GHsiiE/s400/IMG_2429.JPG" title="Beauty and the Bibliophile" width="400" /></a></div>
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I'm very excited for y'all, because most empties I read are all shampoos and mouthwashes... Less than exciting and mostly non-makeup items... Boo. So, I was excited to be able to tell you about three makeup items!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ekGTCIVdsZA/UXRAsQla1wI/AAAAAAAAAoc/TNdYYxZRO-w/s1600/IMG_2437.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Inaugural Empties" border="0" height="367" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ekGTCIVdsZA/UXRAsQla1wI/AAAAAAAAAoc/TNdYYxZRO-w/s400/IMG_2437.JPG" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/product/productDetail.jsp?keyword=make%20up%20forever%20mat%20velvet&skuId=988634&productId=P177117&_requestid=122143" target="_blank">Make Up For Ever Mat Velvet + Matifying Foundation</a> - $36</b></div>
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I guess only the box has the shade on it, because the bottle does not. On the bottom it says "REF: 37020" so maybe that somehow tells you the shade if you are in-the-know? If I wasn't switching from conventional cosmetics to healthier, more natural options, I would definitely repurchase. I am oily and (with a primer) this foundation had the perfect amount of coverage (I like a heavier coverage) and kept me matte. I really liked the squeeze bottle packaging, so you got as much of the product as possible. If I really wanted to milk it, I would have cut off the bottom, so I could scrape it out with a brush and stored it in a ziploc baggy. But I'll admit - sometimes you want it to just be an 'empty' already so you can buy something else! I'm not like some of those <i>crazy</i> bloggers (no offense, Ladies) who just spend loads on makeup. I like to wait until I run out.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/pressed-powder-P6127?skuId=221549" target="_blank">NARS Pressed Powder</a> in Flesh - $33</b></div>
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Having been a Mac Studio FX powder fan, I tried this because of a Sephora associate suggestion. I wasn't particularly wowed by it. It had a decent coverage, but it always looked too powdery to me. For someone who can pull off powder only, this would probably work well. I like to put powder over foundation (or BB cream, now), and this was a bit too much for that.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dAyNIaN-z9k/UXRArp7RrjI/AAAAAAAAAoU/cDS0CLk-Dnk/s1600/IMG_2432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Inaugural Empties" border="0" height="250" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dAyNIaN-z9k/UXRArp7RrjI/AAAAAAAAAoU/cDS0CLk-Dnk/s400/IMG_2432.JPG" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/buxom-lash-P228204?skuId=1143486" target="_blank">Buxom Lash Mascara</a> in Blackest Black - $19</b><br />
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I really like this mascara! I wrote about it in my <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2013/01/sephoracom-haul.html" target="_blank">Sephora Haul post</a> when a smaller size came in my Beauty Insider points perk. Let me tell you the long road I chose to take to get to this wonderful product... It all started about two years ago when I bought a mascara sampler from Sephora. You know, one of their "Best of..." kits. It was about $45 and came with around 10-12 small mascaras. I used EVERY.SINGLE.ONE. until I found my favorite. I went through Too Faced, Tarte, Benefit, MUFE, Laura Mercier, etc, and this ended up being the best. I used up ALL the mascaras and over a year later <i>finally</i> took my 100 point coupon in to buy this full sized beauty. I adore the brush; it keeps my lashes clump free. The mascara is a pretty dry formula (which I prefer), so it's easy to build on. If you want a dramatic lash, this isn't really the best for that, but it does flake less than most I've used. Now, will I repurchase? I might. I'm currently using the sample size from my <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2013/01/sephoracom-haul.html" target="_blank">Buxom sampler box</a>. When I run out, I'll move on to the Tarte Lights, Cameras, Lashes! travel size in my <a href="http://www.sephora.com/picture-perfect-duo-P275309" target="_blank">Picture Perfect Duo</a>. </div>
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(P.S. I was so excited about this purchase. Typically, as most of you know, getting any Tarte products half off is nearly impossible. BUT I have a store near me called <a href="http://www.thecosmeticmarket.com/" target="_blank">The Cosmetic Market</a> that has a 50% off wall that always has Tarte, Caudalie and Bare Minerals on it. I got this duo for $8, instead of the normal $16!) </div>
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After I use up the Tarte mascara, I have my eyes on the <a href="http://www.sephora.com/deep-colour-mascara-P199105?skuId=1052232" target="_blank">Korres Deep Colour Mascara</a>.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ft4zwPROXo0/UXRAssX1szI/AAAAAAAAAos/MRSaeEqb2CQ/s1600/IMG_2443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Inaugural Empties" border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ft4zwPROXo0/UXRAssX1szI/AAAAAAAAAos/MRSaeEqb2CQ/s400/IMG_2443.JPG" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="353" /></a></div>
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Next let's talk about hair products!</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Giovanni-Conditioner-Brazenly-Brunette-8-5-Ounce/dp/B002F8BQ3A/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1366575261&sr=8-2&keywords=giovanni+colorflage+daily+color+defense+shampoo" target="_blank">Giovanni Colorflage Daily Color Defense Shampoo in Brazenly Brunette</a> - $9</b></div>
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I would definitely repurchase this. I'm a fan of Giovanni products, because they avoid many ingredients I do: propylene glycol, SLS, and parabens. This shampoo smells divine, and the fragrance comes from essential oils. When purchasing products I also look at whether it just says "fragrance" or if it explains where it comes from/is organic. Most natural products derive the fragrance from something natural, because they don't have heavy chemicals to cover up. I also love the packaging. The "spout" is at the bottom, so it's easy to squeeze it all out and not have to turn it upside down when you begin to run out. If you are not brunette, they also have products for blonde, red and black hair.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/root-concealer-for-gray-coverage-P282611" target="_blank">Rita Hazan Root Concealer in Light Brown</a> - $25</b><br />
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I'm in my twenties and am about 25% gray. Yup! It's terrible... So, I needed a solution for the days and weeks between the never ending coloring I'll do for the REST.OF.MY.LIFE. This root concealer actually has an updated formula and packaging, so I'm not sure you can get this exact product. It has a very small sprayer that focuses a light brown "spray paint" onto your roots to cover roots and gray hair. I liked this product and may purchase again in the future, mainly because there are not a lot of options out there like it. I've seen hair "crayons" and sticks, but this is quicker and easier, to me. The only down side was at times the sprayer sputtered, and brown dots would get on me, my clothes, or my shower curtain. An additional perk to covering up my gray hair was that it also soaked up oil. I felt like it acted as a dry shampoo, as well! The main thing making me hesitate to repurchase is the price point and that it contains butane, which scores a 5 on <a href="http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredient/700839/BUTANE/" target="_blank">EWG's Skin Deep database for immunotoxicity</a>.</div>
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<b><a href="https://www.birchbox.com/?raf=jg6dg" target="_blank">Whish Shave Crave Shaving Cream in Blueberry</a> - $20</b></div>
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My photo of this is the small .75floz version that came in my monthly <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/?raf=jg6dg" target="_blank">Birchbox</a> in March. It's currently a <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/?raf=jg6dg" target="_blank">Birchbox</a> exclusive item. The full size bottle is not a squeeze tube, like this. (Do you see the little lines across it where I tried to use my <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2013/04/metal-tube-wringer-beauty-organization-beauty-bargain-gill-mechanical-company-caudalie-foot-cream.html" target="_blank">new tube wringer</a>? Clearly, it doesn't work well on plastic... just metal tubes). It smells really great with a very heavy blueberry scent. However, I didn't find it to moisturize my skin any more than a normal shave gel. (I'm currently using Skintimate). It comes out like a white cream, and I almost feel like you can't use too much. I would find myself dispensing a big blob and not be able to cover my whole leg. I could see someone using this up really fast, and for the price point, that's not a perk to me.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EuxfT1yF8G8/UXRAthjpPdI/AAAAAAAAAo4/YzflWTjpSRU/s1600/IMG_2450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Inaugural Empties" border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EuxfT1yF8G8/UXRAthjpPdI/AAAAAAAAAo4/YzflWTjpSRU/s400/IMG_2450.JPG" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="300" /></a></div>
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Lastly, let's talk about hygiene and natural products!</div>
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<b><a href="https://www.burtsbees.com/natural-products/face-care-facial-cleansers/facial-cleansing-towelettes-white-tea-extract-30-count.html" target="_blank">Burt's Bees Facial Cleansing Towelettes with White Tea Extract</a> - $6</b></div>
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I have acne prone skin, and I honestly believe it's because I'm terrible about sticking to a pre-bedtime routine. I'm notorious for starting a book or TV show and getting so tired that I crawl into bed without washing my face. (Here's my hand... slap it. I <i>know</i>!!) So, my solution for the past year or so is to keep wipes on my night stand. I've used Neutrogena wipes and some other brands, but since detoxing my beauty life, I tried these. (I also bought some Giovanni wipes that are waiting in the closet for when my current <a href="http://www.blumnaturals.com/products.asp?dept_id=100&product_id=1004" target="_blank">Blum</a> wipes run out). The Burt's Bees version smells delicious and is very effective at taking all my makeup off. The only downside to using wipes is that I tend to not get all my mascara off. I started to realize I was rubbing a lot harder and pulling on my eye area too much with wipes. So, I often times will have to go back over it the next morning with eye makeup remover. (I talked about my favorite Bliss Lid + Lash Wash one in a favourites posts <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2012/12/my-beauty-library-december-favourites.html" target="_blank">here</a>). The reason I switched to the Blum wipes was the ingredient phenoxyethanol found in the Burt's wipes. <a href="http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredient/704811/PHENOXYETHANOL/" target="_blank">It scores a 4 </a>on the EWG database. Some would argue it's not toxic unless ingested, but if I have an option to buy wipes without it, I will. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CTRmzgpynDU/UXRAtBV3llI/AAAAAAAAAow/7C7OaAxnfII/s1600/IMG_2448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Inaugural Empties" border="0" height="270" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CTRmzgpynDU/UXRAtBV3llI/AAAAAAAAAow/7C7OaAxnfII/s400/IMG_2448.JPG" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.jason-personalcare.com/product/078522015109" target="_blank">Jason Sea Fresh Fluoride Free Strengthening Toothpaste</a> - $6.39</b></div>
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About two years ago I took a six week class with <a href="http://www.draxe.com/" target="_blank">Dr. Josh Axe</a> on toxins in foods and products. I learned a lot about the <a href="http://www.draxe.com/avoiding-fluoride-and-how-to-detox-it-from-your-body/" target="_blank">dangers of fluoride</a> and have since switched to fluoride free toothpaste and <a href="http://www.jason-personalcare.com/product/078522618454" target="_blank">mouthwash</a>. This little guy is a travel size toothpaste, which I think is awesome. For some reason, travel sized products make me so happy. It's like a beauty baby - so little and cute! But one thing that has always frustrated me is I could never find natural options. Now I go to Whole Foods before a trip (which is where I got this) or if you're an online shopper <a href="http://minimus.biz/">Minimus.biz</a> has a great collection of <a href="http://www.minimus.biz/Organic-Natural-Personal-Care.aspx" target="_blank">natural products</a>.</div>
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I'm currently using a full size Jason toothpaste with a cinnamon flavor and love it. This particular product pictured above had a nice, clean flavor. Natural toothpastes tend to have a grittier texture, but it doesn't bother me. </div>
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And, just to reassure you, I just went to the dentist last week after missing my 6 month cleaning, and the dentist said I have "dental school perfect teeth" and no cavities!</div>
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And for my last <i>surprise</i> 'empty,' I want to chat about a book I recently finished.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F3Bazs-lFwE/UXRXkMzTkyI/AAAAAAAAApE/AvXx1R-W5aM/s1600/sparrow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F3Bazs-lFwE/UXRXkMzTkyI/AAAAAAAAApE/AvXx1R-W5aM/s400/sparrow.jpg" width="261" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sparrow-Second-Chances-Collection-ebook/dp/B006T46KGY/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1366579408&sr=1-1&keywords=not+a+sparrow+falls" target="_blank">Not a Sparrow Falls by Linda Nichols</a> - $5.38</b><br />
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I like to peruse the free kindle books every so often, and this one caught my eye. I actually <i>really</i> liked it. I typically feel so-so about the free ones. But, this one actually made me cry. It's a story of a troubled young woman running away from her past and doing her best to make a future she knows she can't have unless the truth comes out. But the truth could ruin everything. On the flip side, there is a man who worked his whole life for success and respect that also has a secret that could strip him of the life he has built. In the mix are neglected children, a released convict with a deadly grudge and a kind spinster who has given her life to others. I really recommend reading this!</div>
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What books have you recently finished you could recommend? I don't have anything waiting for me, so I need some suggestions! </div>
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Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-15339344379220466442013-04-14T07:23:00.000-07:002013-04-21T15:24:26.940-07:00Lip Balm<div style="text-align: center;">
A main beauty obsession of mine is lip balm. I can't abide by a minute without <i>something</i> on my lips. I remember my freshman year in high school, where I would set my huge, chunky Bath and Body Works chapstick on my desk and apply it a dozen times or so during each class. It appears my "problem" hasn't subsided... So, here are some of my current favorites, with their pros and cons.<br />
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You'll notice I have some tinted balms mixed in with un-tinted ones. I probably own like three or four true lip sticks. Everything else is a gloss or balm. So, to add some color to my daily routines, I love to use tinted balms.</div>
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<a href="http://www.birchbox.com/shop/nuxe-reve-de-mielr-ultra-nourishing-lip-balm" target="_blank">Nuxe Rev de Miel Nourishing Lip Balm</a> - $19</div>
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I found this product while feasting my reading eyes on my most recent addiction, <a href="http://www.essiebutton.com/search?q=nuxe" target="_blank">Essie Button</a>. Being a yank (correction: Southern yank), I rarely get to buy all the fun things I see all the across-the-pond beauties rave about. When I saw this on <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/?raf=jg6dg" target="_blank">Birchbox</a>'s website {AND free shipping} I just could not pass 'er up! </div>
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It's foundational ingredient is honey. It smells so pure and sweet (with some citrus hints). It also goes on a bit gritty, but then your body heat takes care of the granules - much like putting honey in or on something warm melts it. Many balms go on glossy, but I love how this just settles in subtly. It doesn't appear you have anything gooey and healthy on, so topping it with a lipstick or gloss is just fine. </div>
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It also last for eons! </div>
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The only con (for me - and it's not <i>really</i> a con in real life...) is that it's in a pot. It's a beautiful glass pot, but it's not quick and easy to swipe on while driving. So, it tends to stay at home in the bathroom where I use it in the evenings or when I'm lounging about. </div>
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One other thing - <b>what are the darn ingredients</b>? I cannot find them online anywhere. It was probably on the box, but I'm terrible about tossing packaging. So, I am curious as to whether it's really as healthy as it seems.</div>
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The website also says to use it on cuticles and small burns. I haven't done that yet but will definitely try to remember to!</div>
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<a href="http://evolutionofsmooth.com/products/lipbalm-sphere/pomegranate-raspberry.html" target="_blank">EOS Lip Balm Smooth Sphere in Pomegranate Raspberry</a> - $3</div>
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Let's be real... this is more fun than practical. In a normal tube this product would be considered good...average...run of the mill. But put it in a ball and call it a "Smooth Sphere" and you've got yourself a niche-y winner! </div>
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I saw this at my local Target recently and had to snatch it up. I like the smell, though I am not a huge fruity flavor person. It goes on well (somewhat thinner) and lasts a good amount of time. </div>
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<b>I'm really attracted to it being organic, paraben free and sweetened with stevia (as opposed to saccharin or sucralose). </b></div>
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I also love the shape of it. It's easy to find this "ball" in the bottom of your purse (while driving... I tend to need to moisturize during that daily drudgery). </div>
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I also feel like a little kid every time I apply it. I hope someone is watching, thinking <i>Man, I wish I had her lip balm!</i> Silly... I know. </div>
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Only con is how little it's available in my area. This flavor is the only one I've seen locally. However, I recently found the <a href="http://store.evolutionofsmooth.com/lip-balm/organic-lip-balm-smooth-sphere-sweet-mint.html" target="_blank">Sweet Mint</a> EOS at ULTA (which was like a 45 minute drive...). Love it, though!</div>
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<a href="http://healoutsidethebox.com/best-lip-balm/" target="_blank">Whole Foods Market Organic Peppermint Lip Balm</a> - $1.99(!!)</div>
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Speaking of mint... For years I've been addicted to Burt's Bees original <a href="https://www.burtsbees.com/natural-products/lips-lip-balms/beeswax-lip-balm-tube.html" target="_blank">Beeswax Lip Balm Tube</a>. Who isn't?!? It's $3 on their website, but I'm pretty sure I've seen it higher in stores... a bit on the high side for a boring ol' chapstick, so when I stumbled across this goodie in Whole Foods at the check out stand I grabbed it up. (Kudos to your add-on skills, WFs!) It was LESS than $2 (crazy talk), <b>organic</b> (and a bargain?!?) and it's mint (perfect). </div>
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And in case you didn't know this about me... </div>
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I'M A MINT ADDICT!</div>
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I once bought 6 boxes of my favorite mint green tea online because they were discontinuing it. </div>
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The only facial water I can stand is Caudalie's elixir which has what some describe an obnoxious minty smell. (Disagree!)<br />
I also use peppermint essential oils to relieve headaches, add to drinking water, and rub into sore muscles.</div>
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I even sniff it! (At least it's that and not Sharpies... though I do think there is something kind of disturbingly good smelling about those...? Right?)</div>
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Back to the balm... I once lost this puppy for two days and tore the house up looking for it. My husband said, "Just buy another one..." Are you kidding me? I don't leave a product in the lurch like that - especially my best, brightest and most loyal! Abandonment was not an option; I finally located her; and we've been inseparable ever since.<br />
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<a href="https://www.burtsbees.com/natural-products/lips-lip-color/tinted-lip-balm.html" target="_blank">Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm</a> in Rose - $7<br />
Because I do love all things Burt's, I have to include this goodie. Although the packaging it came in was fun and almost keep-able, the tube itself is not fun or sexy. Good! It's easy to use. I can blindly grab it from my bag, swipe it on without a mirror and toss it back in.<br />
It doesn't feel especially <i>healing</i> or treatment-like, but the pigment is a fun extra to add to an already great lip balm. I like how many color options there are. I've owned two of these, and this shade was the most pigmented on my lips.<br />
Like I said before, I do love me some Burt's original beeswax balm, but the tint makes this my current go - to.</div>
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<a href="http://www.sephora.com/sugar-lip-treatment-spf-15-P57002?skuId=1190529" target="_blank">Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15 in Rose</a> - $22.50</div>
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Keeping on the same tint track...<br />
I would definitely consider this a more luxury item. Granted it is only a few bucks more than the Nuxe, but being that it's heavily tinted, it's not as versatile. (ie. Use before bed or under lippies).</div>
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It does feel heavenly, and it provides a major pop of color. </div>
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A few dry-shampoo, sock bun Sundays ago I wore it with highlighter, mascara and fuschia blush and got a compliment on how my makeup was "glowing"! I was the best looking hobo in Tennessee... </div>
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It lasts quite a long time, too. </div>
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A pro and con: the packaging. I love that it's a metal tube, it's beautiful and feels really cool. However, I have to twist it up (and back down) every time I use it. And the topper screws onto the tube. So, it's not a one-hander. The downside to the metal part of the equation, I found, is that if it's in your pocket your body heat will be conducted by the metal and melt the balm. Mine is now all kinds of lumpy and melted. When I apply it, the stick pushes over the side. For $22 I would expect it to not be so soft, unless they put it in a pot. Despite the packaging and application issues, it's still a enjoyable "treatment." It smells divine - lemon-y and fresh!</div>
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I received it as a Birthday gift from Sephora, so I am not complaining too much. However, I will probably just enjoy it while it lasts and not repurchase. I just might have to resort to a lip brush... and it will be worth it.</div>
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Although it's <b>paraban, sulfate, phthalate, etc free, it does <a href="http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/product/434115/Fresh_Sugar_Rose_Lip_Treatment%2C_SPF_15/" target="_blank">score a 7</a> <span id="goog_32609839"></span>on EWG's Skin Deep database for a sizeable list of other undesirables</b>. Disappointing! Another reason I won't repurchase but will enjoy in the meantime.</div>
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<a href="http://www.walgreens.com/store/c/bag-balm-protective-ointment/ID=prod10744-product?ext=gooPersonal_Care_PLA_Moisturizers_prod10744_pla&adtype={adtype}&kpid=prod10744&sst=075a739c-398a-7ce8-a34a-00004e6c599b" target="_blank">Vermont's Original Bag Balm Protective Ointment</a> - $9</div>
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I included this balm in my <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2013/02/february-beauty-favourites-favorites-tarte-concealer-amazonian-clay-LORAC-behindthescenes-primer-mariobadescu-dryinglotion-babyoil-burtsbees-woodwick-fireside-realtechniques-stipplingbrush.html" target="_blank">January Favourites post</a>. I've had it for years and years. It is probably the best bang for my buck in this post. Ten ounces for $9!?! Amazing. </div>
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As ranchers were milking cows and applying this to their udders they realized how soft their hands were getting. The rest is history.</div>
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I mainly use it on my lips (big ol' blob!) before bed. I also like to put a huge dollop on my feet, then socks and sleep on that for softer tootsies, too. </div>
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I have used it on my cuticles before, but it made my polish bubble up... Twice. Weird! I avoid that now.<br />
Being that you don't really find this in health food stores, I wondered how non-toxic it could be. I was pleased to find it scored a 1 on <a href="http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/product/479695/Vermont%27s_Original_Bag_Balm_Protective_Ointment/" target="_blank">EWG's Skin Deep</a> database!</div>
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Only cons are 1) it will last until I die, so I probably won't ever try anything else again that is similar. I have my eye on some <a href="http://www.badgerbalm.com/p-14-badger-balm.aspx" target="_blank">Badger Balm</a>. And 2) it smells a little weird. Just think, cows don't care about fragrance.</div>
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What about you lovelies? What lip-savers do you trust your kissers to?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment in Rose<br />
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Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-49463642432421931802013-03-23T18:38:00.000-07:002013-04-21T15:24:38.887-07:00First Ever Giveaway!<div style="text-align: center;">
Seche Vite & Essie Giveaway</div>
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It's been quite a bit since I've last blogged, but I was really excited to return with a giveaway. I've been wanting to do one since I began blogging in December, and I know how much so many of you (including myself) love Seche Vite! The mini Essie in Wicked is an added perk. Owl not included. :)</div>
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Here are the deets:</div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #efefef;"><b>To enter for the Seche Vite top coat, base coat and mini Essie Wicked do the following & then comment regarding them:</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #efefef;">-Publicly follow Beauty & the Bibliophile on GFC </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #efefef;">-Follow me on twitter @BandtheBBlog (post your twitter name in the comments, so I can check it) </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #efefef;">-Tweet regarding this giveaway with the link and my name @bandthebblog. Put that link in the comment, as well, for me to verify. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #efefef;">-Blog about it on your own blog (link... you get the picture. This counts as 3 entries) </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #efefef;">-Pin it on on your Pinterest (link in comment) </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #efefef;">Every one of these will get you an extra entry! </span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y3wLdTIT6bs/UU5YFANv4tI/AAAAAAAAAno/6AtoshmyOW0/s1600/DSC01507.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="My First Giveaway Ever!" border="0" height="280" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y3wLdTIT6bs/UU5YFANv4tI/AAAAAAAAAno/6AtoshmyOW0/s400/DSC01507.JPG" title="Beauty & the Bibliophile - Seche Vite & Essie Giveaway" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #efefef;">This is an international giveaway. You must be 18 years old or older to enter, unless you have your parents' permission. I will ship parcel post once the giveaway has completed and will notify you by your email to get your address. (Leave your email addy in the comment. You can leave it like this: emailaddress (at) mailprovider (dot) com so you don't get spammed. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #efefef;">Giveaway ends 4/11/13.</span> </span></div>
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Good luck, and I can't wait to see all your lovely comments!</div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">***Winner, Toria Mason, was selected by Random.org!! Congratulations!***</span><br />
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<a href="http://twitter.com/bandthebblog" style="background-color: white; color: #e9bbae; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" target="_blank">Tweet Me</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #565656; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> • </span><a href="http://instagram.com/bandthebblog" style="background-color: white; color: #e9bbae; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" target="_blank">Instagram Me</a> <span style="background-color: white; color: #565656; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">• <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/5094425/?claim=2t9ushtqqdc" target="_blank">BlogLovin</a></span></div>
Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com96tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-86455063268192844902013-02-22T16:41:00.001-08:002013-04-21T15:24:46.714-07:00The Great Primer Search: Korres Pomegranate Mattifying Primer<div style="text-align: center;">
The Great Primer Search </div>
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<a href="http://www.sephora.com/pomegranate-mattifying-primer-P300705" target="_blank">Korres Pomegranate Mattifying Primer</a> - $33</div>
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Just like any other product, there are 82 bazillion primers out there! However, when you're <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2013/02/gabriel-moisturizing-liquid-foundation-review-makeup-detox-whole-body-whole-foods.html" target="_blank">trying to detox your makeup</a> bag one product at a time, it really does narrow down your options. After loving <a href="http://www.sephora.com/clean-slate-poreless-12-hr-perfecting-primer-P310018?skuId=1404599" target="_blank">Tarte's Clean Slate</a> I had a hard time parting with it, but wanted to find a silicone free option. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rdHR3m5IQbU/USgFr13Uw2I/AAAAAAAAAmg/-kcMtQOvusg/s1600/DSC01404.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="305" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rdHR3m5IQbU/USgFr13Uw2I/AAAAAAAAAmg/-kcMtQOvusg/s400/DSC01404.JPG" title="Korres Pomegranate Mattifying Primer Review" width="400" /></a></div>
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Because it's silicone free, it feels like a second moisturizer and not a thick spackle-like substance. Having very oily skin, that silicone is typically what keeps me from being shiny, so I wondered how this would go. However, I do like that it is paraben, sulphate and propylene glycol free. And it smells very yummy!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QGiwYptnyyU/USgFpmc9-6I/AAAAAAAAAmM/Gd19-0jg_7Q/s1600/DSC01407.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QGiwYptnyyU/USgFpmc9-6I/AAAAAAAAAmM/Gd19-0jg_7Q/s400/DSC01407.JPG" title="Korres Pomegranate Mattifying Primer Review" width="400" /></a></div>
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As you can tell, it's slightly tinted and more on the yellow undertone side. However, when it's rubbed in, it is not as noticeable.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oWaD5hL7Agc/USgJN17Gj8I/AAAAAAAAAmw/8H8s5npgRfM/s1600/DSC01411.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oWaD5hL7Agc/USgJN17Gj8I/AAAAAAAAAmw/8H8s5npgRfM/s400/DSC01411.JPG" title="Korres Pomegranate Mattifying Primer Review" width="400" /></a></div>
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I did notice it kept my face oils at bay better than had I not used anything at all to prime. It didn't work as well as the Tarte Clean Slate, though. I am not allergic to silicone, so I am tempted to go back.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tm2okC1D4Oo/USgJN71v7gI/AAAAAAAAAms/lclV7U9p_Ik/s1600/DSC01410.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tm2okC1D4Oo/USgJN71v7gI/AAAAAAAAAms/lclV7U9p_Ik/s400/DSC01410.JPG" title="Korres Pomegranate Mattifying Primer Review" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here's the main con. If it weren't for it doing this ^ when I rubbed it in I would have worked through the whole tube. But at $33 it was just too much to deal with this "pilling." I returned it and have since purchased two even more natural primers I will let you know about soon: <a href="http://www.100percentpure.com/LUMINOUS-PRIMER-VITAMINS-ANTIOXIDANTS-WITH-RESVERATROL-s/49.htm" target="_blank">100% Pure Luminous Primer</a> ($26) & <a href="http://theallnaturalface.com/hydration-mists-and-primers--foundation-primer.html" target="_blank">The All Natural Face Foundation Primer</a> ($11.50). The main reason I went with even more natural is that both the Tarte and Korres primers contain <a href="http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredient/704811/PHENOXYETHANOL/" target="_blank">phenoxyethanol</a> which scored a 4 on EWG's Skin Deep database. It doesn't seem too be too toxic an ingredient, as it doesn't bioaccumulate; but it is considered an irritant. </div>
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Any one else having a hard time detoxing their makeup? If you have any tips/recommendations on what works really well <i>and</i> is natural, I'd love to hear about it!</div>
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Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-75468004448340603402013-02-14T15:26:00.000-08:002013-04-21T15:24:56.590-07:00Guest Post! Valentine's Date Night Makeup Tutorial<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pmrcvUG7VDQ/UR1vpbvPwcI/AAAAAAAAAls/3QGjRXtmWv0/s1600/eye+makeup.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pmrcvUG7VDQ/UR1vpbvPwcI/AAAAAAAAAls/3QGjRXtmWv0/s320/eye+makeup.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Valentine’s Day Date Night Makeup<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria;">I just wanted to
thank Tara for having me as her featured blog post for Valentine’s Day! It has
been so wonderful to collaborate with her. When I read her profile and perused
her blog I immediately fell in love with all of her cute posts. I noticed that we
had a lot of similarities and so this was a great way to share our knowledge
with eachothers’ subscribers. </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings;">:)</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Hopefully, this look
will provide you all with some inspiration for your date night or “singles
awareness” night with your girlfriends. I wanted to do a sultry and sexy look
that would be perfect for going for a night on the town </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings;">:)</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Products Used: </span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://rstyle.me/~f8lY"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Cambria;">MAC Painterly Paint Pot</span></a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span></span><a href="http://rstyle.me/~frr8"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Cambria;">Milani Brow
Fix Brow Kit in “Light”</span></a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://rstyle.me/~dvU7"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Cambria;">NYX Slide On Pencil in Pure White</span></a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span></span><a href="http://rstyle.me/~f8mQ"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Cambria;">“Mauve” from
the Lorac Pro Palette</span></a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://rstyle.me/~f8mQ"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Cambria;">“Light Pink” from the Lorac Pro Palette</span></a></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span></span><a href="http://rstyle.me/~frrw"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Cambria;">MAC eyeshadow
in “Stars N’ Rockets”</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://rstyle.me/~frrz"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Cambria;">MAC eyeshadow in “Fig 1”</span></a> </div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://rstyle.me/~frrR"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Cambria;">Maybelline Eye Studio Gel Liner in Black</span></a></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span></span><a href="http://rstyle.me/~frsi"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Cambria;">Milani
Glitter Eyeliner in Purple</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://rstyle.me/~frsA"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Cambria;">L’Oreal Power Volume “Black Smoke” Mascara in
Black</span></a><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;"></span></b><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span></o:p></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">1.)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Take Painterly Paint Pot and place all over the
eye from the lids to the arch of your eyebrow. This primer will ensure that
your eye shadow doesn’t crease and will make the pigments appear brighter. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-align: center;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span></o:p><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">2.)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Fill in eyebrows with Milani Brow Fix Brow Kit
powder. Filling in your brows with frame and shape your face. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span></o:p><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">3.)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Using the NYX Slide On Pencil, draw under the
arch of the brow and in the inner corner of the eye to bring light to the eyes.
This will also make you appear more awake and will give the illusion of larger
eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;"></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">4.)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Using windshield wiper motions, take a fluffy
brush and sweep “Mauve” from the Lorac Palette in the crease of the eye. This
will provide the transition color for the rest of the shadows and will make the
eyes look deeper set.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span></o:p><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">5.)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Take “Light Pink” from the Lorac Palette and
pack the color onto the lid of the eye just until it hits the bottom of the
crease.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;"></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">6.)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Take “Stars N’ Rockets” and sweep this eyes
shadow slightly above the mauve color. Blend together using a clean fluffy
brush. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span></o:p><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">7.)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Take “Fig 1” and place in a V Shape in the outer
corner of the crease <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-align: center;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span></o:p><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">8.)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Take the purple Milani glitter liner and draw
from the outer corner of the crease just to the middle section of the crease.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span></o:p><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">9.)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Draw winged out liner on the top lash line with
the Maybelline Gel liner in Black. Do a smaller wing underneath the bottom lash
line. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;"></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">10.)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Apply Mascara<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>to the top and bottom lashes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-align: center;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span></o:p><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">And Voila! You’re looking gorgeous for a romantic/fun night out!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span></o:p></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">If you would like to see more makeup tutorials and product reviews,
please stop by my blog:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.beautybooklove.com/"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Cambria;">www.beautybooklove.com</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> L</span></o:p></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">ove, <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Bickham Script Pro Regular"; font-size: 48pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Anne-Marie <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">The Beauty Book <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
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Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-61804011303532586272013-02-09T08:58:00.000-08:002013-04-21T15:25:05.005-07:00Makeup Detox Episode 1: Gabriel Foundation<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.gabrielcosmeticsinc.com/index.cfm/product/12_9/gabriel-moisturizing-liquid-foundation.cfm" target="_blank">Gabriel Moisturizing Liquid Foundation</a> - $28</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cbOS4WrWKOw/URZ3ef4DPKI/AAAAAAAAAg8/_IhWtgRTJuo/s1600/DSC01391.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cbOS4WrWKOw/URZ3ef4DPKI/AAAAAAAAAg8/_IhWtgRTJuo/s400/DSC01391.jpg" title="Gabriel Cosmetics Moisturizing Liquid Foundation Review" width="300" /></a></div>
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One of my New Year's goals (I hate making resolutions...) was to replace my products with natural alternatives as I used them up. Firstly, using something up entirely is really difficult for me! Am I the only one? It seems my loyalty is lacking, and my tendency to keep buying and hopping around is terrible! However, I'm almost done with my <a href="http://www.sephora.com/mat-velvet-matifying-foundation-P177117?skuId=988634" target="_blank">MAKE UP FOR EVER Mat Velvet foundation</a>, which I love, but it scores a 5-6 on <a href="http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/search.php?query=make+up+for+ever+mat+velvet&h=Search" target="_blank">EWG's Skin Deep database</a>. For starters, it contains parabens (studies have found many types of parabens in breast cancer tumors: un-metabolized by the body) and many other chemical ingredients I'd like to do without. So, when that's gone, I need another foundation. Many makeup purists will would rule out all liquid foundations, but I just don't know if I can give them up... </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iVc4JbQcbYc/URZ4F98kYZI/AAAAAAAAAhE/4be-5FQaUe4/s1600/DSC01392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="381" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iVc4JbQcbYc/URZ4F98kYZI/AAAAAAAAAhE/4be-5FQaUe4/s400/DSC01392.JPG" title="Gabriel Cosmetics Moisturizing Liquid Foundation Review" width="400" /></a></div>
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My first branch out into natural foundation was Gabriel Cosmetics' Liquid Foundation. I decided to do my shopping at Whole Body (the beauty/body care side to Whole Foods). I tried several brands on my hands or fore arms, and this was the most 'normal' consistency in there. That was a little disheartening. You all know how much I love Sephora, so I really wish they had more natural offerings. Even Tarte, Korres and Fresh sometimes have ingredients I don't agree with. So, I ventured out.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mHKzL_L3a8U/URZ4HPCNDTI/AAAAAAAAAhM/36q07JTMyKI/s1600/DSC01393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mHKzL_L3a8U/URZ4HPCNDTI/AAAAAAAAAhM/36q07JTMyKI/s400/DSC01393.JPG" title="Gabriel Cosmetics Moisturizing Liquid Foundation Review" width="400" /></a></div>
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I felt I was going out on a metaphorical-makeup-purchasing limb, since the cosmetic department lacked any marketing materials to explain what the purpose of this foundation was (other than the obvious normal use). It also does not come in a box or anything with print on it to "sell" it or promote its benefits. I can understand why: less packaging is green (and less expensive for the manufacturer). However, it left me feeling I was making a decision without all the vital deets. The associate that helped me match the shade said it <i>should</i> work for my oily skin, but she seemed unsure of herself. She also assured me I could return it if it didn't work out, and that sealed the deal!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S8cfp8z6zxo/URZ4IXOB8uI/AAAAAAAAAhU/Aobbfp1yL-w/s1600/DSC01395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S8cfp8z6zxo/URZ4IXOB8uI/AAAAAAAAAhU/Aobbfp1yL-w/s400/DSC01395.JPG" title="Gabriel Cosmetics Moisturizing Liquid Foundation Review" width="400" /></a></div>
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As you know, I'm as pale as it gets. So, I matched on the inside of my arm (her suggestion) to the Pale Ivory. The packaging is so-so. As you can see, it's frosted glass with a typical top. I honestly prefer a squeeze bottle, so I can get the most use. When I opened the tester in the store, the black square top came off the cap that screws on to the bottle, so I expected mine to do that over time. For $28, I typically prefer some sturdy and more inventive packaging.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tyxGD4N4HCc/URZ4KkFCaqI/AAAAAAAAAhk/0gaBLotudVk/s1600/DSC01394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tyxGD4N4HCc/URZ4KkFCaqI/AAAAAAAAAhk/0gaBLotudVk/s400/DSC01394.JPG" title="Gabriel Cosmetics Moisturizing Liquid Foundation Review" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8VBHImHSawU/URZ4Iw_amaI/AAAAAAAAAhY/b9s5hdxPD1o/s1600/DSC01398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="287" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8VBHImHSawU/URZ4Iw_amaI/AAAAAAAAAhY/b9s5hdxPD1o/s400/DSC01398.JPG" title="Gabriel Cosmetics Moisturizing Liquid Foundation Review" width="400" /></a></div>
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It comes out very liquid-y. I'm used to my matte foundation being a bit thicker, so it was easy for me to dispense too much.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oM9Jlr8N0ls/URZ4K8oyMNI/AAAAAAAAAho/3_d0L8Bg854/s1600/DSC01400.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oM9Jlr8N0ls/URZ4K8oyMNI/AAAAAAAAAho/3_d0L8Bg854/s400/DSC01400.JPG" title="Gabriel Cosmetics Moisturizing Liquid Foundation Review" width="400" /></a></div>
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When I got home with the product I went online to read about it and saw that it was truly meant mainly to moisturize, and I don't need that. (It does say it won't make skin oily...) I already use my Korres gel moisturizer under my primer, so a moisturizing foundation is too much. It also doesn't help keep the oily-ness down to a minimum.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FTOQDCZKO34/URZ4LNabc5I/AAAAAAAAAhs/2KGqjwkG0Ts/s1600/DSC01399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="283" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FTOQDCZKO34/URZ4LNabc5I/AAAAAAAAAhs/2KGqjwkG0Ts/s400/DSC01399.JPG" title="Gabriel Cosmetics Moisturizing Liquid Foundation Review" width="400" /></a></div>
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I spread this in and around using my fingers. I generally use a blending sponge to help it set on the surface of my skin, so I didn't love how it settled in the lines on my hands.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C7FdHHNdPEo/URZ4MrVvpiI/AAAAAAAAAiA/ZnOAIKFRSZ0/s1600/DSC01402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C7FdHHNdPEo/URZ4MrVvpiI/AAAAAAAAAiA/ZnOAIKFRSZ0/s400/DSC01402.JPG" title="Gabriel Cosmetics Moisturizing Liquid Foundation Review" width="400" /></a></div>
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When applied to my face it was more moisturizing than I would have preferred and the coverage didn't last all day as well as my MUFE does. I also became much shinier than usual. I know... natural makeup can do that! You might be asking yourself: "<i>Are you looking for a miracle, Tara?!</i>" <b>Why, yes...</b></div>
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Because I wasn't "in-love" with it, I did end up returning it. And I appreciated how friendly the Customer Service associate at Whole Foods was! I had my eyes on some BB creams and other foundations I'd rather try, and considering foundations last for half a year with me, I want to make that investment with care. Knowing a BB cream will not give the coverage I want, I have purchased the Korres Mineral Foundation and have really loved how well it does over a tinted moisturizer (and the MUFE foundation). It (+ a BB cream) doesn't provide the <i>perfect</i> airbrushed look I want, but I think I will have to sacrifice that to keep toxins out of my body. (Or I will just have a long quest to discover what works)! But I am excited to let my skin breathe more and hopefully that will result in better skin that needs less coverage.</div>
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Have any of you discovered a natural alternative that meets all your needs? Share the wealth!</div>
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Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-42458367111280250782013-02-06T06:19:00.000-08:002013-04-21T15:25:14.419-07:00Natural & Easy Sunday - FOTD<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>My First FOTD! </b></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Face of the Day)</span></div>
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It's Lazy-Day-Sunday around here, so I went with a natural, romantic look. No eye liner, no HACing, no brow wax/powder & no lipstick. It was nice!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0S-1paJxsFM/UQ67omdVxcI/AAAAAAAAAec/lr5Xh4SdiBE/s1600/DSC01430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0S-1paJxsFM/UQ67omdVxcI/AAAAAAAAAec/lr5Xh4SdiBE/s400/DSC01430.JPG" title="Face of the Day" width="400" /></a></div>
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Tarte Smooth Operator BB Tinted Moisturizer in Agent 00 <span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 18px;">• </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 18px;"><a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2013/02/february-beauty-favourites-favorites-tarte-concealer-amazonian-clay-LORAC-behindthescenes-primer-mariobadescu-dryinglotion-babyoil-burtsbees-woodwick-fireside-realtechniques-stipplingbrush.html" target="_blank">Tarte Amazonian Clay Waterproof Concealer</a> in Fair </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 18px;">• Korres Mineral Foundation in Porcelain </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DwCkaAyKkPw/UQ67q6jcAwI/AAAAAAAAAew/Wym6KXxH1do/s1600/DSC01413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="241" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DwCkaAyKkPw/UQ67q6jcAwI/AAAAAAAAAew/Wym6KXxH1do/s400/DSC01413.JPG" title="Face of the Day" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ybbtx7P5rXA/UQ67ry9GEyI/AAAAAAAAAfA/oqK4rsSDWKs/s1600/DSC01415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ybbtx7P5rXA/UQ67ry9GEyI/AAAAAAAAAfA/oqK4rsSDWKs/s400/DSC01415.JPG" title="Face of the Day" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VeSsr7xr9T8/UQ67tvF9ADI/AAAAAAAAAfM/5HMVdwtU03I/s1600/DSC01417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="312" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VeSsr7xr9T8/UQ67tvF9ADI/AAAAAAAAAfM/5HMVdwtU03I/s400/DSC01417.JPG" title="Face of the Day" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 18px;">Korres </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 18px;">Blush in 16 Pink/Rose with e.l.f. Blush in Pink Passion stippled on over it on just the apples </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 18px;">• Benefit High<i>Beam</i> on top of my cheek bones</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9g0DtQsy7qg/UQ67v9rJiII/AAAAAAAAAfY/PDREXMdqRY8/s1600/DSC01414.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="307" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9g0DtQsy7qg/UQ67v9rJiII/AAAAAAAAAfY/PDREXMdqRY8/s400/DSC01414.JPG" title="Face of the Day" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5fDO9GWCeXo/UQ67wAvDkcI/AAAAAAAAAfc/jEtxXpFcHA4/s1600/DSC01413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="241" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5fDO9GWCeXo/UQ67wAvDkcI/AAAAAAAAAfc/jEtxXpFcHA4/s400/DSC01413.JPG" title="Face of the Day" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 18px;">Anastasia Tinted Brow Gel in Espresso </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 18px;">• <a href="http://instagram.com/p/UJ6IUFP0az/" target="_blank">e.l.f. Luscious Liquid Lipstick in Pink Lemonade</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pK8wfgowdWo/UQ671QwRgHI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/9X87l48IA0g/s1600/DSC01432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="303" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pK8wfgowdWo/UQ671QwRgHI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/9X87l48IA0g/s400/DSC01432.JPG" title="Face of the Day" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 18px;">LORAC <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2013/02/february-beauty-favourites-favorites-tarte-concealer-amazonian-clay-LORAC-behindthescenes-primer-mariobadescu-dryinglotion-babyoil-burtsbees-woodwick-fireside-realtechniques-stipplingbrush.html" target="_blank">Behind the Scenes Eye Primer</a> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 18px;">• Lorac <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2012/12/is-lorac-underrated-lorac-pro-palette.html" target="_blank">Pro Palette</a> CREAM as a wash, LT. <a href="http://instagram.com/p/Up7ECGv0ev/" target="_blank">BRONZE all over bottom of lid</a>, PEWTER in the crease, GOLD lining the bottom lash line & WHITE in the corners and under the brows</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BORQUkfuhKw/UQ672RrPrkI/AAAAAAAAAgY/2pnylCjr3Lg/s1600/DSC01435.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BORQUkfuhKw/UQ672RrPrkI/AAAAAAAAAgY/2pnylCjr3Lg/s400/DSC01435.JPG" title="Face of the Day" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 18px;">Merle Norman Lash Lift Waterproof Mascara</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S6hLleCoiDI/UQ672qPtlsI/AAAAAAAAAgc/qMDKyBdIvWk/s1600/DSC01434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S6hLleCoiDI/UQ672qPtlsI/AAAAAAAAAgc/qMDKyBdIvWk/s400/DSC01434.JPG" title="Face of the Day" width="400" /></a></div>
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This was my first time wearing a BB cream. I'm not sure how I feel about it. I'm used to foundation coverage, but I think with a primer and the mineral foundation it works well!<br />
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Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-25254654978329639592013-02-03T11:23:00.001-08:002013-04-21T15:25:22.432-07:00January Beauty Favourites<div style="text-align: center;">
It's that time again! Time to rave on and on about a few things I just couldn't do without in the month of January.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sACRYcahu80/UQ6vAcuSkeI/AAAAAAAAAcI/_2HFQHgCxl0/s1600/DSC01376.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="257" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sACRYcahu80/UQ6vAcuSkeI/AAAAAAAAAcI/_2HFQHgCxl0/s400/DSC01376.JPG" title="January Beauty Favourites" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XEmdsWsYf5Y/UQ62ouLjJSI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/jcV8WuvaxE8/s1600/DSC01382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XEmdsWsYf5Y/UQ62ouLjJSI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/jcV8WuvaxE8/s400/DSC01382.JPG" title="January Beauty Favourites" width="400" /></a></div>
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AND I made a video, again. I'm not sure I'm turning out to be a great YouTuber, but I'm proud that I learned how to add music to a video in iMovie. If that's all I get out of this, than good! (Along with learning that I use the word "um" entirely too much! I need to fix that.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/8JzuZrwvnHI?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sorry it's so yellow looking... Again, me trying to use a different camera in different lighting. Fail. </span><br />
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<a href="http://www.walgreens.com/store/c/vermont's-original-bag-balm-protective-ointment/ID=prod10744-product" target="_blank">Bag Balm</a> - $9<br />
I've had this for years. It comes in a fun green tin with an udder on it. 'Nuff said, right? This is a great all-around ointment I use on my lips, feet and other rough skin. Only issue I've had was when it caused my nail polish to bubble up when I used it on my cuticles. It happened twice, so I know it was due to the bag balm. I'm not sure what chemically happens for a balm to do that, but it did. I don't use it on my cuticles any more if I have polish on. I use my <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2013/01/beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com-2013-01-january-2013-ipsy-glam-bag-pacifica-nailtini-josiemaran-arganoil-bigsexyhair-hairspray-bodybutter.html" target="_blank">Josie Maran Argan Oil</a> instead.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IzEd8__rezE/UQ6v5xfHGMI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/127SkgL-lcg/s1600/DSC01201.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="282" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IzEd8__rezE/UQ6v5xfHGMI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/127SkgL-lcg/s400/DSC01201.JPG" title="Bag Balm" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/mario-badescu-drying-lotion/2920702?cm_cat=datafeed&cm_ite=mario_badescu_drying_lotion:176006&cm_pla=skin/body_treatment:women:moisturizer&cm_ven=Google_Product_Ads&mr:ad=20667942833&mr:adType=pla&mr:filter=26507068913&mr:keyword=&mr:match=&mr:referralID=NA&mr:trackingCode=23E3CFFD-D981-DE11-B712-001422107090&origin=pla&pprd=0" target="_blank">Mario Badescu Drying Lotion</a> - $17<br />
I've used Murad & the Pro Activ mask as spot treatments many times, and this is, by far, what has worked the best for me. If you watch the video, you'll see better how the ingredients separate. You're not to shake it up but use a Q-tip to dip it all the way in and apply to the spot. I wouldn't get it anywhere near your eyes. It puts off a stinging vapor-like feeling/smell. It's most likely the isopropyl alcohol. It sort of looks like calamine lotion you used on your chicken pox as a kid, so you can definitely not wear this with your makeup like you can the Murad spot treatment.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wKbEWkoRo70/UQ6xNLRHLjI/AAAAAAAAAcY/pvU28XpWUIo/s1600/DSC01387.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="313" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wKbEWkoRo70/UQ6xNLRHLjI/AAAAAAAAAcY/pvU28XpWUIo/s400/DSC01387.JPG" title="Mario Badescu Drying Lotion" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://realtechniques.com/shop-collection/your-finish-perfected/stippling-brush" target="_blank">Real Techniques Stippling Brush</a> - $10</div>
I'd never used a stippling brush before, but after hearing all about it by Estee at Essie-Button, I thought I'd give it a shot! If you want to avoid mussing up your foundation and powder coverage by dragging a blush brush across it, this is the perfect fix. The white bristles stick out past the darker ones and help to grab the product. I believe these are mostly recommended for use with cream blushes, bronzers, highlighters, etc, but I love it for just my plain ol' fuschia blush.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RKEOzwo_FuI/UQ63a7KmZOI/AAAAAAAAAdY/kvwhlD5Lq1w/s1600/DSC01373.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="286" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RKEOzwo_FuI/UQ63a7KmZOI/AAAAAAAAAdY/kvwhlD5Lq1w/s400/DSC01373.JPG" title="Real Techniques Stippling Brush" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.burtsbees.com/natural-products/baby-mom-moisturizers/baby-bee-nourishing-baby-oil.html" target="_blank">Burt's Bees Nourishing Baby Oil</a> - $9</div>
It smells sweet and yummy and makes for some super soft and smooth skin! I specifically love it for after shaving my legs, but it works for cuticles, too. I also love that it's natural and won't deliver any toxins into a baby's blood stream (or mine!). If you ever use baby oils, definitely switch to this one.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mp14a6l0va4/UQ6xpkgH3kI/AAAAAAAAAco/Z-jjLRKAlzE/s1600/DSC01384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mp14a6l0va4/UQ6xpkgH3kI/AAAAAAAAAco/Z-jjLRKAlzE/s400/DSC01384.JPG" title="Burt's Bees Nourishing Baby Oil" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://tartecosmetics.com/tarte-item-Amazonian-clay-waterproof-concealer" target="_blank">Tarte Amazonian Clay Waterproof Concealer</a> in Fair - $22</div>
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I'm on my third one, and that's a massive deal. I'm hardly loyal to products, always hoping to find something better. True to form, I left this concealer - my one true concealing love - to use another (won't name names, but the brand starts with a B and ends with -enefit) and came back! It's super smooth, creamy and great coverage. Only down side is I use it up pretty quickly. It opens like a lipstick but is so creamy you don't have to swipe or drag under your eyes. You can just dab or dot. I've found the best way to apply is to dab it on, do your eyes or foundation, etc and come back to it with a concealer brush after your skin has warmed it.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--W2Mx0NMp_k/UQ6xz7DE0vI/AAAAAAAAAcw/U-TaZENIrpM/s1600/DSC01385.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="297" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--W2Mx0NMp_k/UQ6xz7DE0vI/AAAAAAAAAcw/U-TaZENIrpM/s400/DSC01385.JPG" title="Tarte Amazonian Clay Waterproof Concealer" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.loraccosmetics.com/best-sellers_behind-the-scenes.html?gclid=CMX1j8bqmrUCFQeDnQoddlYACg" target="_blank">LORAC Behind the Scenes Eye Primer</a> - $21</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Free shipping until 2/28/13 on everything!</span></div>
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I know I've talked about this a lot in my <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2012/12/is-lorac-underrated-lorac-pro-palette.html" target="_blank">Pro Palette</a> review & Sephora.com Haul when I got the <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2013/01/sephoracom-haul.html" target="_blank">Unzipped Palette</a>. It's amazing!! Bottom line.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Iyeaq8ssd3E/UQ6x7lLOYQI/AAAAAAAAAc4/1DuXwPEAkc4/s1600/DSC01386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Iyeaq8ssd3E/UQ6x7lLOYQI/AAAAAAAAAc4/1DuXwPEAkc4/s400/DSC01386.JPG" title="LORAC Behind the Scenes Eye Primer" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://shop.crackerbarrel.com/Fireside-Woodwick-Candle-Large/dp/B0050Q944M" target="_blank">WoodWick Fireside Candle</a> - $25</div>
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Who knew a lovely smell could come with a soothing <i>sound</i>! These candles crackle like a real fire, and it smells like one, too! It's not too masculine, but it leans more that way. If your hubs or better half isn't all about the floral, beachy scents - try this one. I burn it for hours and hours, and it last a long time. This is our second one along with several car air fresheners, too.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zVFJr-yHa_0/UQ6yFwT1t4I/AAAAAAAAAdA/EseJIsL_ATg/s1600/DSC01388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="367" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zVFJr-yHa_0/UQ6yFwT1t4I/AAAAAAAAAdA/EseJIsL_ATg/s400/DSC01388.JPG" title="WoodWick Fireside Candle" width="400" /></a></div>
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Have I convinced you to try any of these? If so, which ones and why? </div>
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Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-40530374990221735412013-02-01T10:31:00.000-08:002013-04-21T15:25:31.846-07:00Beware the Fake Naked 2 Palette!<div style="text-align: center;">
Heed this my cautionary tale, for I hath been bamboozled*!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0lIMjCXJQgM/UQse--3LwOI/AAAAAAAAAaE/gCeuUM-7dTc/s1600/photo+1+%252810%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="280" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0lIMjCXJQgM/UQse--3LwOI/AAAAAAAAAaE/gCeuUM-7dTc/s400/photo+1+%252810%2529.jpg" title="Beware the Fake Naked 2 Palette!" width="400" /></a></div>
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That's about as much silliness as I can muster. Back to real English.<br />
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How many of you are regular deal hunters? I sure am. I frequent <a href="http://sharingspree.com/Referral/375e4825" target="_blank">Sharing Spree</a> for those deals pretty often. About a month ago there was a doozy of a spree for the Urban Decay Naked 2 Palette for... Wait. For. It. ... $25! Yes - twenty-five dollars. I was so stoked, because I had already told myself I <i>wouldn't</i> be purchasing any more palettes after the Lorac <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2012/12/is-lorac-underrated-lorac-pro-palette.html" target="_blank">Pro</a> and <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2013/01/sephoracom-haul.html" target="_blank">Unzipped</a> robbed me of quite a bit of mula recently. But how could I pass up a $50 palette for half off?</div>
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You might be a more realistic, logical person thinking, <i>Tara, that's too good to be true. It's probably fake!</i> Well, <b>where in the heck were you?!</b> In my defense, I had no clue that fake UD palettes were a <i>thing</i>, or I would have been paying attention to it. (Or rather no clue that counterfeit makeup was a thing!)</div>
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What first clued me in was the shades were terrible! I mean it. I'm no expert, but I have used quite a bit of shadows, and I felt like I was using chalky children's fake makeup... I was thinking, <i>What is the deal with this palette? All these beauty bloggers are insane..."</i> Then I started to notice small details.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mAne0zrm-5c/UQsfKJjrI4I/AAAAAAAAAaY/OtIZ9hKpKMg/s1600/photo+2+(8).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="260" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mAne0zrm-5c/UQsfKJjrI4I/AAAAAAAAAaY/OtIZ9hKpKMg/s400/photo+2+(8).jpg" title="Beware the Fake Naked 2 Palette!" width="400" /></a></div>
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Like, the mirror seemed warped, and I could hardly see myself as I used it. The pans containing the shadows are bent. When I looked at pictures online of the brush, the real one's bristles were a different pigment, and the font went the opposite direction of the one I have. Lastly I wondered why the writing/font was already wearing off (see the "U" on the brush?).<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sNGEsPDAtlw/UQslhSxj_RI/AAAAAAAAAaw/vpXoawg0UMY/s1600/photo+5+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" height="135" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sNGEsPDAtlw/UQslhSxj_RI/AAAAAAAAAaw/vpXoawg0UMY/s400/photo+5+(4).JPG" title="Beware the Fake Naked 2 Palette!" width="400" /></a></div>
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On the back of the real one there is a sticker with a batch number. This did not have one.<br />
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I also noticed that the palette comes with a lip gloss through Sephora. This one didn't. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">BUM</span> - <span style="font-size: x-small;">freaking</span> - <span style="font-size: large;">MER!!</span></div>
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After sulking and thinking all kinds of negative "what is this world coming to" thoughts I started to google it. I stumbled across The Beauty Belle's <a href="http://www.thebeautybelle.co.uk/2012/11/urban-decay-naked-2-palette-real-vs-fake.html" target="_blank">story</a> of experiencing a similar problem. She has great photos of comparisons between the two (packaging and swatches). An even better post regarding this is by <a href="http://vickyhoang.blogspot.com/2012/06/real-naked-2-vs-fake-naked-2.html?showComment=1359640809091#c5395943703974317987" target="_blank">Vicky Hoang</a>. She even found <i>more</i> issues than I ever saw. I was really quick to toss my packaging, but there are many discrepancies in that, too!</div>
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I reached out to <a href="http://sharingspree.com/Referral/375e4825" target="_blank">Sharing Spree</a> and the company that sold it - <a href="http://bellasweetboutique.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bella Sweet Boutique</a>. Sharing Spree jumped right on it, refunded my money and is providing a shipping label to send it back. Kudos!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KASXoKCJlvg/UQn5PwwKAGI/AAAAAAAAAZE/VgLup__SLrs/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-01-30+at+10.54.00+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty & the Bibliophile" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KASXoKCJlvg/UQn5PwwKAGI/AAAAAAAAAZE/VgLup__SLrs/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-01-30+at+10.54.00+PM.png" title="Beware the Fake Naked 2 Palette!" /></a></div>
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I'm thankful they responded VERY quickly. Unfortunately, I can't say the same for Bella Sweet. I see that there is an active deal for the same product on their <a href="http://www.sharingspree.com/Deals/seattle/3096" target="_blank">Seattle page</a> today with over 200 sold. So sad; I hope they <b>both </b>rectify it soon!</div>
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Ultimately, I know I got what I paid for. I think what bothers me the <i>most</i> is that we have no idea what ingredients are in the duped palettes. Since ingredients are important to me - and I try to avoid toxins as much as I can - it scares me to think what unregulated crap is probably in these fake 'uns! <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2210884/The-toxic-trade-fake-make-How-counterfeit-cosmetics-containing-dangerous-levels-arsenic-sold-online-unsuspecting-bargain-hunters.html" target="_blank">This article</a> even quotes Interpol as saying counterfeit makeup helps fund <span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">terrorism and drug trafficking</span>! Aaaah! It also relays that many tested counterfeits contain <b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">arsenic and mercury</span></b>! So, if you are thinking, "I got it for cheap - might as well use it" please don't.</div>
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Now I'm doubting all my Amazon and Ebay purchases for Mac, <a href="http://instagram.com/p/UrHLffv0dQ/" target="_blank">Elizabeth Arden</a>, etc products. Is it worth a bargain to risk putting arsenic and mercury in your bloodstream?</div>
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So, tell me: have you ever been similarly duped? Any of you lovelies own the <i>real</i> Naked 2 and can concur?</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*Indicates the author is 99.2% certain it's fake. Obviously there is a chance <strike>in hell</strike> that it's real and Urban Decay just has some inconsistencies. I'm just saying for all y'all who want to be <strike>annoying</strike> literal. K?</span><br />
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Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-17362303107424518482013-01-21T17:52:00.000-08:002013-04-21T15:25:54.037-07:00Sephora.com Haul <div style="text-align: center;">
One of my biggest guilty pleasures is Sephora.com. I like it much better than the store... don't ask me why. Maybe because no one asks me if I need help. And when I'm still there 3 hours later, no one suspects me of shop lifting...</div>
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I had considered a spending ban for the new year, but eff that. Minus nail polishes - those are out of control.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ntrbgtKnag0/UP3g6NEvrWI/AAAAAAAAAVU/LKWmE5KwJjA/s1600/DSC01313.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty and the Bibliophile" border="0" height="283" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ntrbgtKnag0/UP3g6NEvrWI/AAAAAAAAAVU/LKWmE5KwJjA/s400/DSC01313.JPG" title="Sephora.com Beauty Haul" width="400" /></a></div>
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Look at all these goodies! I bet you'd be surprised if I told you I'd only paid for two of them... Well, be surprised!</div>
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Another reason I lurve shopping on Sephora.com is the free shipping for over $50, plus my points (had over 600), plus my VIB code (see my breakdown of the new VIB kit <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2012/12/the-sephora-vib-welcome-kit-unveiled.html" target="_blank">here</a>) "2013" for two deluxe samples.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FCjhFGdeQIU/UP3h2bp0jbI/AAAAAAAAAVg/kkzrPJ4xRoA/s1600/DSC01316.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty and the Bibliophile" border="0" height="387" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FCjhFGdeQIU/UP3h2bp0jbI/AAAAAAAAAVg/kkzrPJ4xRoA/s400/DSC01316.JPG" title="Sephora.com Haul" width="400" /></a></div>
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<u>Here's what I've got:</u></div>
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- Lorac Unzipped Eyeshadow Palette - <span style="color: #c27ba0;">$40</span></div>
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- Buxom Shimmer Shine and Smoke set - <span style="color: #c27ba0;">500 points</span></div>
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- Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask to Clear Pores - <span style="color: #c27ba0;">100 points</span></div>
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- Josie Maran Argan Cleansing Oil - <span style="color: #c27ba0;">"2013" deluxe sample</span></div>
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- Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Illuminating Serum - <span style="color: #c27ba0;">"2013" deluxe sample</span></div>
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- Origins Sensory Therapy Peace of Mind On the Spot Treatment - <span style="color: #c27ba0;">$12</span></div>
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- Lancome Trevor perfume sample</div>
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- YSL L'Homme sample</div>
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- Stella McCartney L.I.L.Y. sample</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kMWtHuXzMfI/UP3jQ8h51_I/AAAAAAAAAWE/0IPlPi4orFg/s1600/DSC01318.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img alt="Beauty and the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kMWtHuXzMfI/UP3jQ8h51_I/AAAAAAAAAWE/0IPlPi4orFg/s400/DSC01318.JPG" title="Sephora.com Beauty Haul" width="400" /></a></div>
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I just got all this stuff TODAY. Literally couldn't wait a minute to talk about it. When I walked in and saw the box on the counter I got super <strike>excited </strike> demonstratively giddy, and the hubs just laughed at me. Since I just got it today I don't have a lot of comments on the product (that's relative to what you think is a lot... let's be honest. I'm long winded), but I will give you some great images and details. Here goes!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VCc-nIaIpl0/UP3kucAgF-I/AAAAAAAAAWc/-bmkaCq33xg/s1600/DSC01348.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty and the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VCc-nIaIpl0/UP3kucAgF-I/AAAAAAAAAWc/-bmkaCq33xg/s400/DSC01348.JPG" title="Lorac Unzipped Palette with Behind the Scenes Primer" width="400" /></a></div>
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Packaging is cool. Not as grippy as the <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2012/12/is-lorac-underrated-lorac-pro-palette.html" target="_blank">Pro</a> (should stay cleaner), but it's magnetic! I like that & the large mirror, too. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uq9RaoUaF7Y/UP3kvE4PkII/AAAAAAAAAWk/bYvrXFgG-X8/s1600/DSC01349.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty and the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uq9RaoUaF7Y/UP3kvE4PkII/AAAAAAAAAWk/bYvrXFgG-X8/s400/DSC01349.JPG" title="Lorac Unzipped Palette" width="400" /></a></div>
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Look at that! Shimmer AND matte! So glad they kept with their tradition of combining the two. After being so extremely pleased with the <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2012/12/is-lorac-underrated-lorac-pro-palette.html" target="_blank">Pro Palette</a> I didn't expect anything less!</div>
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I actually really like that there isn't a black shade. Almost <b>every</b> palette ever made has a black for liner, but I don't need that. I'd rather have the extra shade to play with. I also don't have any brown eye liners, so this UNTAMED is perfect.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0i0qScWYWi8/UP3kwx8i_8I/AAAAAAAAAWw/MAsS1f1egIU/s1600/DSC01350.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty and the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0i0qScWYWi8/UP3kwx8i_8I/AAAAAAAAAWw/MAsS1f1egIU/s400/DSC01350.JPG" title="Lorac Unzipped Palette" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k9eknFDHzHw/UP3kxyhX5MI/AAAAAAAAAW8/JzI-k6a-6Bs/s1600/DSC01352.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty and the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k9eknFDHzHw/UP3kxyhX5MI/AAAAAAAAAW8/JzI-k6a-6Bs/s400/DSC01352.JPG" title="Lorac Unzipped Palette" width="400" /></a></div>
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I love the names of these shades! The <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2012/12/is-lorac-underrated-lorac-pro-palette.html" target="_blank">Pro Palette</a> was a simple "White, Taupe, Nude, Mauve..." but these are fun and sexy... like it's title of Unzipped!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RhEKhaejB9E/UP3kyLWy76I/AAAAAAAAAXA/jOm6JSNitnE/s1600/DSC01356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty and the Bibliophile" border="0" height="263" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RhEKhaejB9E/UP3kyLWy76I/AAAAAAAAAXA/jOm6JSNitnE/s400/DSC01356.JPG" title="Lorac Unzipped Palette & Behind the Scenes Primer" width="400" /></a></div>
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And now for the <b><span style="color: #c27ba0;">REAL</span></b> reason I bought this whole thing. One of my *Beauty Library* items is the Behind the Scenes primer. It's the BEST I've used. Yes, better than UDPP & Too Faced. I'm getting low on my small size from the <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2012/12/is-lorac-underrated-lorac-pro-palette.html" target="_blank">Pro Palette</a>. So, while on Sephora.com about to put the $21 primer in my shopping cart I thought: <i>Well, heck... for $19 more I can get my primer AND a new Lorac palette.</i> You can't argue with that logic, can you? (Don't try...) </div>
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I always wait so long to cash in my Beauty Insider points, because I'm not thrilled with the options time and time again. When I saw this one I thought <i>Finally! A perk I will use!</i> (I think a lot, huh?) </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-11MnCreoNfg/UP3nNTFhzsI/AAAAAAAAAXc/dADo14WF6MI/s1600/DSC01321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty and the Bibliophile" border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-11MnCreoNfg/UP3nNTFhzsI/AAAAAAAAAXc/dADo14WF6MI/s400/DSC01321.JPG" title="Buxom Shimmer Shine and Smoke 500 Point Beauty Insider Perk" width="293" /></a></div>
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The gloss might be a bit too warm for me and the luminizer (or whatever they call it... too lazy to go look at the box) is <i>really</i> gold. I tend to gravitate towards silver and cool tones, so these will be interesting to try. The liner which has goes on with a fine point and is water proof. I think we'll be good friends. Just a heads up - it has "silver" in the title, and the packaging is navy, but it really looked black on my skin. I'm a little confused by it.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ahJPe29uvJE/UP3nOkJUaPI/AAAAAAAAAXk/WLVspQjFwio/s1600/DSC01325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty and the Bibliophile" border="0" height="277" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ahJPe29uvJE/UP3nOkJUaPI/AAAAAAAAAXk/WLVspQjFwio/s400/DSC01325.JPG" title="Buxom Shimmer Shine and Smoke 500 Point Beauty Insider Perk Swatches" width="400" /></a></div>
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I've already used this mascara before and really like it. It works well for every day lashes. I wouldn't say it gives huge volume or amazing, dramatic results. However, that brush is da bomb at keeping it clump-free. It's also the least flaky mascara I've used.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TMJFReU0igU/UP3nOpc_ZII/AAAAAAAAAXo/RY8x2LJaho8/s1600/DSC01322.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty and the Bibliophile" border="0" height="386" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TMJFReU0igU/UP3nOpc_ZII/AAAAAAAAAXo/RY8x2LJaho8/s400/DSC01322.JPG" title="Buxom Shimmer Shine and Smoke 500 Point Beauty Insider Perk " width="400" /></a></div>
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Having acne and oily prone skin I'm always down for trying a new mask. I'm a fan of origins because of their natural leanings and chemical consciousness. Again, I was impressed with this being a 100 point perk.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmBJstrclCY/UP3n2_yuInI/AAAAAAAAAX0/dE-j4XIETXc/s1600/DSC01331.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty and the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmBJstrclCY/UP3n2_yuInI/AAAAAAAAAX0/dE-j4XIETXc/s400/DSC01331.JPG" title="Origins Clear Improvement Charcoal Mask Review" width="400" /></a></div>
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Look how thick that goes on! And I didn't dispense very much. This sample will last a LONG time, Folks!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f0KO24glSNk/UP3n3ClEL6I/AAAAAAAAAX4/68oEaOFsOXg/s1600/DSC01333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty and the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f0KO24glSNk/UP3n3ClEL6I/AAAAAAAAAX4/68oEaOFsOXg/s400/DSC01333.JPG" title="Origins Charcoal Mask" width="400" /></a></div>
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If you read my <a href="http://beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com/2013/01/beautyandthebibliophile.blogspot.com-2013-01-january-2013-ipsy-glam-bag-pacifica-nailtini-josiemaran-arganoil-bigsexyhair-hairspray-bodybutter.html" target="_blank">January Ipsy glam bag review</a>, you know how much I love Josie Maran's 100% Argan Oil for so many reasons. It's friendly to acne prone skin and hasn't even broken me out. So, when this was offered as a deluxe sample, I thought (shocking, I know...) <i>Sah-weet!</i></div>
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It's a <i>cleansing</i> oil. Is that even possible? I guess so! I'll be trying it tonight to remove my makeup (while simultaneously crossing my fingers that I won't have 15 huge blemishes in the morning). </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VJ-jDvtYw4I/UP3ok_0jgJI/AAAAAAAAAYo/KyNOWvKIZt0/s1600/DSC01346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty and the Bibliophile" border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VJ-jDvtYw4I/UP3ok_0jgJI/AAAAAAAAAYo/KyNOWvKIZt0/s400/DSC01346.JPG" title="Josie Maran Argan Cleansing Oil" width="350" /></a></div>
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I'm a HUGE Tarte fan! Like Origins (or Korres or Fresh) they work hard to eliminate ingredients like Propylene Glycol, SLS, and parabens. So, I've always been curious about their illuminating serum. So far I'm a little surprised. It came out really watery. I would recommend shaking it up first. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uq0ZFH53UKQ/UP3oj7gbuGI/AAAAAAAAAYc/Eii4wfITTgM/s1600/DSC01337.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty and the Bibliophile" border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uq0ZFH53UKQ/UP3oj7gbuGI/AAAAAAAAAYc/Eii4wfITTgM/s400/DSC01337.JPG" title="Tarte Amazonian Clay Illuminating Serum" width="206" /></a></div>
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You can see how it's thicker than many illuminizers, etc. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zZ-Qyw3qwAM/UP3oiSZVkoI/AAAAAAAAAYU/oeqhm0jtCKs/s1600/DSC01338.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty and the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zZ-Qyw3qwAM/UP3oiSZVkoI/AAAAAAAAAYU/oeqhm0jtCKs/s400/DSC01338.JPG" title="Tarte Amazonian Clay Illuminating Serum" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>This albino gal would rather call it a <u>bronzer</u>.</b> So, if you're a tanner person than me (which means anything darker than a piece of paper) it will probably serve its purpose. If you <i>are</i> as fair as I am, then welcome to your new bronzer... I'm not sure how I feel about that. It looks pretty orange, huh?</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W7MqJBwx0sk/UP3okmOTyYI/AAAAAAAAAYk/OoZJd4Vtp3Q/s1600/DSC01341.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty and the Bibliophile" border="0" height="306" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W7MqJBwx0sk/UP3okmOTyYI/AAAAAAAAAYk/OoZJd4Vtp3Q/s400/DSC01341.JPG" title="Tarte Amazonian Clay Illuminating Serum" width="400" /></a></div>
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Another Origins item I have been <i>interested</i> in for years but never purchased is their Sensory Therapy Peace of Mind. You just take a spot of it and put it on your ear lobes, temples, back of your neck or on your forehead and it helps relieve headaches and stress. I've actually read so many reviews of migraine sufferers who have had success with this goodness. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UbRE0rvo9ns/UP3ogmu_7JI/AAAAAAAAAYE/h_HYkP3XSjo/s1600/DSC01328.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty and the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UbRE0rvo9ns/UP3ogmu_7JI/AAAAAAAAAYE/h_HYkP3XSjo/s400/DSC01328.JPG" title="Origins Sensory Therapy Peace of Mind On-The-Spot Relief" width="400" /></a></div>
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I love anything with essential oils! It took me forever to spend $12 on this little bitty bottle, but who wouldn't spend that and more for a <i>real</i> peace of mind?</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b-9BedTw1_M/UP3ohp50O2I/AAAAAAAAAYM/cMFSXJ1TUSY/s1600/DSC01329.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauty and the Bibliophile" border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b-9BedTw1_M/UP3ohp50O2I/AAAAAAAAAYM/cMFSXJ1TUSY/s400/DSC01329.JPG" title="Origins Sensory Therapy Peace of Mind On-The-Spot Relief" width="400" /></a></div>
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I won't go into grave detail re: the perfumes. I do have a mini rant. Why is perfume the ONLY sample that's been available lately? I want makeup samples - lipstick, mascara, eyeshadow? Or what about primers? Any of you received any great samples from the 3 free in every order?</div>
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Are you interested in any of these things? Let me know, and I'll do a more in depth review after I've used them!</div>
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Are any of these going on your "To Get" or "To Get After this Dumb Spending Ban" list?</div>
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Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-5803709750612337792013-01-19T09:02:00.003-08:002013-04-21T15:26:08.135-07:00Mauve & Taupe. Taupe & Mauve.<div style="text-align: center;">
Have you ever despised a color (probably because it reminds you of some hideous furniture or style from your 80s & 90s childhood) and then realized one day it was your new fave? Um... I hate to admit it, but I sure have. I bet you can't guess what they are...</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">MAUVE & TAUPE!</span></div>
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<img alt="maybelline color tattoo tough as taupe NYX blush taupe elizabeth arden lipgloss radiant mauve sonia kashuk mauving it on up lorac pro palette" border="0" height="282" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x01eNEr3GUo/UPrKEBwkkRI/AAAAAAAAATI/955-3qq-O9I/s400/DSC01305.JPG" title="Mauve and Taupe Beauty Products for Pale, Cool Pink Undertones" width="400" /></div>
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So, <span style="background-color: white; color: #c27ba0;">mauve</span>... Growing up my parents had a satin mauve sofa. Yes. I said it. Satin. Mauve. Sofa. Disgusting. It was even more disgusting after my brother and I vomited on it as children often do on satin things. So, I think I developed a mental block against all things mauve. I mean, if you're a child of the 90s, you probably swore you'd never wear a <a href="http://intothegloss.com/2013/01/the-return-of-the-scrunchie/" target="_blank">scrunchie to avoid ever resembling Blossom</a>. And yet, <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2182676/The-return-scrunchie-Is-maligned-hair-accessory-making-comeback-thanks-Olympic-gymnasts.html" target="_blank">they're back</a>...</div>
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You can imagine my shock and chagrin when I began to truly understand what colors (or colours, for my fellow Anglophiles) go best with my <strike>albino</strike> pale skin, blue eyes, and pink undertones; and mauve was one of them! At first I balked and refused. <i>Then</i> I received a gift from my grandmother. She had purchased an Elizabeth Arden set of glosses that she gave me. One of the shades was <a href="http://www.elizabetharden.com/High-Shine-Lip-Gloss/10021057400,default,pd.html?dwvar_10021057400_color=f8a6a6&start=1&cgid=lip-gloss" target="_blank">Radiant Mauve</a>. After learning that I needed to mostly sport <a href="http://www.lifescript.com/life/looks/skin/cool_it_baby_how_to_flaunt_a_cool_skin_tone.aspx" target="_blank">cool tones</a> I wore it once, then twice, then used up the whole sample size. Then I re-purchased. Do any of you feel that any time you actually purchase something you tried as a sample that it must be absolutely <i>epic</i>? Well, I do! I hardly EVER do that...</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5jUB3SuKSg/UPrKWoljQrI/AAAAAAAAATQ/qO-OdSlbRNI/s1600/photo+5+(3).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="151" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5jUB3SuKSg/UPrKWoljQrI/AAAAAAAAATQ/qO-OdSlbRNI/s320/photo+5+(3).jpg" title="Elizabeth Arden Radiant Mauve Lipgloss" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wkFtOgmk2bM/UPrKWgqYw9I/AAAAAAAAATU/z0BUlUzsaOE/s1600/DSC01284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Elizabeth Arden Radiant Mauve Lipgloss Swatch" border="0" height="230" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wkFtOgmk2bM/UPrKWgqYw9I/AAAAAAAAATU/z0BUlUzsaOE/s320/DSC01284.JPG" title="Elizabeth Arden Radiant Mauve Lipgloss" width="320" /></a></div>
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The down side to this gloss is it's smell. It really does rather stink. It also isn't as creamy and thick as it was in the sample pot... :( I'm not as happy with the full size as I was with the sample. Nevertheless, I still love the shade & will keep using it.</div>
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About that time I realized my <a href="http://bit.ly/Vzh5La" target="_blank">Lorac Pro Palette</a> contains a Mauve shade that I'd never worn... not once.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XKcqhRGmznk/UNjh951tdZI/AAAAAAAAAHo/qtD1T_jIqkc/s1600/DSC01219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="eyeshadow swatch" border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XKcqhRGmznk/UNjh951tdZI/AAAAAAAAAHo/qtD1T_jIqkc/s320/DSC01219.JPG" title="Lorac Pro Palette Taupe and Mauve" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VxySY91Zf0U/UPrN7ORgpSI/AAAAAAAAAU0/JHTAj36iAyw/s1600/photo+1+(7).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="eye shadow swatch" border="0" height="285" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VxySY91Zf0U/UPrN7ORgpSI/AAAAAAAAAU0/JHTAj36iAyw/s320/photo+1+(7).jpg" title="Lorac Pro Palette Taupe and Mauve" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now I love it with a little Lt Pink and Taupe or Sable with some Nude under my brows and in the corner of my eyes. It compliments my blue eyes and cool undertones really well! </div>
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My most recent mauve purchase was <a href="http://soniakashuk.com/sk-MTA_prod.php?sk=299" target="_blank">Sonia Kashuk's Mauving it On Up Nail Colour</a>. (She <a href="http://grammarist.com/spelling/color-colour/" target="_blank">spells it correctly</a>!!) Love this stuff!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iEv0Azg7SrM/UPrKle5-WZI/AAAAAAAAATg/M051HmJJ9sc/s1600/DSC01307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iEv0Azg7SrM/UPrKle5-WZI/AAAAAAAAATg/M051HmJJ9sc/s320/DSC01307.JPG" title="Mauving it on up nail colour sonia kashuk" width="284" /></a></div>
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I'm not always a fan of pink... <i>or</i> purple. So, mauve, you fit the bill for my girly, cool toned fix. </div>
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Now on to taupe. I'm a huge fan of all things grey. (And black... I should have had a career at Victoria's Secret). So, taupe just seemed like the red headed stepchild of colors. It's not brown and not grey. But it is both. It's kind of dirty and boring<i>. </i>Until now...</div>
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Taupe is my new skin-complimenting friend, and I'm so sorry I'd ever ignored or forgotten you. It all started when I stumbled upon this wonderful concept of Highlighting and Contouring (HAC). <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yd9GCnHntcs" target="_blank">MaskCARA</a> suggested using a taupe colored pencil to contour down your nose and under your bottom lip. I didn't have a pencil, but I discovered the Taupe shade in my <a href="http://bit.ly/Vzh5La" target="_blank">Pro Palette</a> (again)! How had I never used that one, either? That and a liner brush became my contouring friend. Seriously - try it! Just a little under your bottom lip does wonders!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5WbT2q0Ry34/UPrOFRDIUvI/AAAAAAAAAU8/KtgBMBmdya0/s1600/photo+2+(6).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Contouring under lip" border="0" height="202" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5WbT2q0Ry34/UPrOFRDIUvI/AAAAAAAAAU8/KtgBMBmdya0/s320/photo+2+(6).jpg" title="Elizabeth Arden Radiant Mauve Lipgloss" width="320" /></a></div>
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Can you tell the difference between this picture with contouring and the last without?</div>
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This led to my googling "pale skin contouring" with bronzers being, by nature, too warm for me. That one google session resulted in my newest blog obsession: Estee over at <a href="http://www.essiebutton.com/search?q=nyx+taupe" target="_blank">Essie Button</a> is as fair as me, and she suggested <a href="http://www.nyxcosmetics.com/p-24-powder-blush.aspx" target="_blank">NYX's Powder Blush in Taupe</a>. NYX isn't carried in my state, so off to <a href="http://www.amazon.com/NYX-Cosmetics-Powder-Blush-Taupe/dp/B002QIAETG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1358569360&sr=8-1&keywords=nyx+taupe" target="_blank">Amazon</a> I went! I've used it mostly for contouring, but it's also a great blush for days I don't want to use my pinks or peaches.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4wojVLsvbA8/UPrK4nw7OVI/AAAAAAAAATw/5Y0vEEpRd0k/s1600/DSC01273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4wojVLsvbA8/UPrK4nw7OVI/AAAAAAAAATw/5Y0vEEpRd0k/s320/DSC01273.JPG" title="nyx blush taupe swatch" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--cR7ueHB8FQ/UPrK5XdWFOI/AAAAAAAAAUA/ufF6oIfaYNg/s1600/DSC01274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--cR7ueHB8FQ/UPrK5XdWFOI/AAAAAAAAAUA/ufF6oIfaYNg/s320/DSC01274.JPG" title="nyx blush taupe swatch" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aTEByE6Y9uE/UPrK5JrjpwI/AAAAAAAAAT4/I58LT8_G5XA/s1600/DSC01295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aTEByE6Y9uE/UPrK5JrjpwI/AAAAAAAAAT4/I58LT8_G5XA/s320/DSC01295.JPG" title="nyx blush taupe swatch" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.essiebutton.com/2012/01/possible-new-holy-grail-maybelline.html" target="_blank">Essie Button</a> also turned me on to cream shadows... I've never used them. Read my lips - NEVER. I believe after trying it once when I was much younger it creased, and I was over that. That was before primer. Now I religiously prime with <a href="http://www.sephora.com/behind-the-scenes-eye-primer-P255602?skuId=1222520" target="_blank">Lorac's Behind the Scenes</a> and this next product stays on for days. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--sfTO197nbk/UPrLeXPg9CI/AAAAAAAAAUg/KKQRO3xh9pc/s1600/DSC01269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="maybelline color tattoo tough as taupe NYX blush taupe elizabeth arden lipgloss radiant mauve sonia kashuk mauving it on up lorac pro palette" border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--sfTO197nbk/UPrLeXPg9CI/AAAAAAAAAUg/KKQRO3xh9pc/s320/DSC01269.JPG" title="mauve and taupe cool pale pink undertones products blush eyeshadow lipgloss" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.maybelline.com/Products/Eye-Makeup/Eye-Shadow/Eye-Studio-Color-Tattoo-24HR-Cream-Gel-Shadow.aspx#shadedetails" target="_blank">Maybelline's Color Tattoo 24 Hour eyeshadow in Tough as Taupe</a> is more grey than the more-brown Lorac, but it has just that right pigment that makes it <i>better</i> than boring old grey. I really love how this cream shadow makes building shimmers or an intense eye easy! Or you can just wear it solo with the liner of your choice, and you have a carefree daily look.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p4QXfectOSo/UPrLQGsT1nI/AAAAAAAAAUY/aL0rgojmdrA/s1600/DSC01280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="246" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p4QXfectOSo/UPrLQGsT1nI/AAAAAAAAAUY/aL0rgojmdrA/s320/DSC01280.JPG" title="Maybelline 24 hour color tattoo cream shadow tough as taupe" width="320" /></a></div>
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What do you think? Are there any shades you've steered clear from that you might revisit? Any new, unexpected likes? How about you other pale ones out there - what shades work well for you that could help this sister out?</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0Hiknr5Y13A/UPrK3S1CxII/AAAAAAAAATo/hs4kSIgZHSU/s1600/DSC01270.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="maybelline color tattoo tough as taupe NYX blush taupe elizabeth arden lipgloss radiant mauve sonia kashuk mauving it on up lorac pro palette" border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0Hiknr5Y13A/UPrK3S1CxII/AAAAAAAAATo/hs4kSIgZHSU/s320/DSC01270.JPG" title="Mauve and taupe cool undertones pale skin products" width="320" /></a></div>
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Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-20330564838077829162013-01-14T22:11:00.000-08:002013-04-21T15:26:23.034-07:00January 2013 Ipsy Glam Bag!<div style="text-align: center;">
Being a newbie beauty blogger I stumbled upon the world of beauty subscriptions a la Ipsy & <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/?raf=jg6dg" target="_blank">Birchbox</a>, etc while reading blogs and discussing it on forums. After reading lots of reviews and thoughts I decided to go with <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/?raf=jg6dg" target="_blank">Birchbox</a>, but was excited when I found Ipsy... It jumped up even higher on my list when I realized there was no waiting list (like <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/?raf=jg6dg" target="_blank">Birchbox</a>).</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CvELtT1mDS8/UPTiM2wjdEI/AAAAAAAAAQI/WdIDZ1eYFck/s1600/DSC01248.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Pacifica, London SOHO, Josie Maran, Big Sexy Hair, Ipsy" border="0" height="187" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CvELtT1mDS8/UPTiM2wjdEI/AAAAAAAAAQI/WdIDZ1eYFck/s320/DSC01248.JPG" title="Ipsy January 2013 Glam Bag" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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I've seen pix of Glossybox & <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/?raf=jg6dg" target="_blank">Birchbox</a> packaging, and they go all out! But Ipsy takes a minimalist approach with a bright pink bubble package. It's fun and simple! When you pull out all the goodies you won't find tissue paper or anything else other than one simple card with fun graphics and a sweet saying - perfectly pretty for a cork board or picture frame. On the back it lists the discount you'll find on each brand when you log into your account on Ipsy.com.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gA25p9rCwZ8/UPTiXGsdsmI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/IEfk9bWXe0U/s1600/DSC01241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fuschia bubble envelope" border="0" height="103" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gA25p9rCwZ8/UPTiXGsdsmI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/IEfk9bWXe0U/s200/DSC01241.JPG" title="Ipsy January 2013 Glam Bag Packaging" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dthVf9dpDsI/UPTjLhOYQYI/AAAAAAAAAQc/2iV_8HAGgZ8/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Ipsy Jan Glam Bag" border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dthVf9dpDsI/UPTjLhOYQYI/AAAAAAAAAQc/2iV_8HAGgZ8/s200/photo.jpg" title="A true start will always shine!" width="150" /></a></div>
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Gotta itemize it all!</div>
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<li>Pacifica Tuscan Orange Blood Body Butter - 2.5 fl oz - Retail <u>$7</u></li>
<li>Martini Nail Laquer in Frappe - Retail around <u>$11-13</u></li>
<li>Josie Maran 100% Argan Oil - .17 fl oz - worth about <u>$4</u> based on Retail of .5 oz</li>
<li>London SOHO Beauty crease brush - Retail <u>$9</u></li>
<li>Big Sexy Hair Spray & Play Volumizing Hairspray - 1.5 oz - Retail <u>$12</u></li>
<li>Black Ipsy makeup bag with stars on a white background - Priceless? <i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Remember those MC commercials? Ha!</span></i></li>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C_3T_4K3oUc/UPTjfLTy0LI/AAAAAAAAAQs/sZd24QqePKA/s1600/DSC01242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pacifica, Big Sexy Hair, London SOHO, Josie Maran, Nailtini" border="0" height="291" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C_3T_4K3oUc/UPTjfLTy0LI/AAAAAAAAAQs/sZd24QqePKA/s320/DSC01242.JPG" title="Ipsy January Glam Bag 2013" width="320" /></a></div>
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If you add all that business up, we've got an estimated value of <span style="font-size: large;">about $42 on the low end</span>. That's a great bargain, if you ask me!<br />
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I was excited to see the <a href="http://www.beauty.com/products/prod.asp?pid=325860&catid=302979&aid=338669&aparam=goobase_filler" target="_blank">Pacifica body butter</a> in Tuscan Blood Orange fall out of this glam bag. I'm a big fan of buying beauty products at Whole Foods (Whole Body), and I've seen this brand there many times. (I also adore Sephora and know they carry a few fragrances). It smells very fruity and citrus-y. I'm normally not a big fan of fruit scents in my body products but this is a sophisticated, rich smell. The shea & mango butters and chamomile help mute the sweet orange, rounding it all out & taking it from what one remembers as Lipsmackers (90's kids unite!) to L'Occitane. Of course I LOVE love LOVE that there are no parabens, no propylene glycol and no SLS. It's also made in the USA! While writing this post I started with a big dollop and still have silky hands (an hour later) without having ever felt greasy!</div>
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The nail Laquer wasn't the most exciting item, but its a good neutral. Here is a swatch with one coat - very sheer with a slight peachy undertone. After learning more about <a href="http://www.tinibeauty.com/catalog/nailtini.cfm" target="_blank">Nailtini</a> I started to get excited. I like to buy <a href="http://www.essie.com/nail-colors/" target="_blank">Essie</a> polishes (I mean... who doesn't?), because it does not have formaldehyde, and I was excited to learn this brand also prides it self on limiting toxic ingredients! Again, more natural and made in the USA!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IGxZPgMb-Zw/UPTjrbeqRwI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/umkqmtlkhWM/s1600/DSC01252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Ipsy Jan Glam Bag nail polish" border="0" height="306" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IGxZPgMb-Zw/UPTjrbeqRwI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/umkqmtlkhWM/s320/DSC01252.JPG" title="Nailtini Nail Lacquer in Frappe" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.sephora.com/argan-oil-P218700?skuId=1121797" target="_blank">Josie Maran's argan oil</a> is actually one of my <b>*Beauty Library*</b> items, so I was stoked to find a mini bottle of it I can now use for travel or to toss in my bag. It's not scented and has a slight natural smell. What's fun is the packaging says it's cold pressed to maintain nutrients <b>AND</b> that the smell changes depending on the batch. So... your smell may not be my smell. :) It has many uses, but I mainly use it after I shave to prevent razor burn. I also use it in my wet hair before drying and as a facial moisturizer. I love that even the mini size has a dropper as part of the topper. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NJQ2LfgNU3s/UPTj1BbGSoI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/a9XbZQFZ8og/s1600/DSC01257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Ipsy Jan Glam Bag" border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NJQ2LfgNU3s/UPTj1BbGSoI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/a9XbZQFZ8og/s320/DSC01257.JPG" title="Josie Maran 100% Argan Oil" width="299" /></a></div>
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A <a href="http://sohobeauty.com/catalog.php?pcID=2_25&pID=63&ci=6" target="_blank">makeup brush</a>! How can you go wrong with that? I'm a big fan of tools and see them as an investment. I already have a great crease brush from Merle Norman but its not as fluffy (is that a proper MUA word?) as this one. I'm curious to see how well it focuses on the crease. It almost seems big enough to be a blending brush. But it retails $9 usually, so my $10 seems like a great deal!</div>
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I've used Big Sexy Hair's root volume spray before and it was so-so, so I'm curious to see how this <a href="http://www.drugstore.com/products/prod.asp?pid=215077&catid=183488&aid=338666&aparam=goobase_filler" target="_blank">hairspray</a> works to volumize... I've never had a love affair with any hairspray. (The longest relationship I've ever had is with <a href="http://www.drugstore.com/products/prod.asp?pid=452054&catid=183488&aid=338666&aparam=goobase_filler" target="_blank">Rusk W8less</a>, and it's because it smells delightful). We just don't mesh, generally, so we shall see...<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5WJII8s_Fgk/UPTkee49_dI/AAAAAAAAARE/kLEtQ4OXDic/s1600/DSC01244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pacifica, Big Sexy Hair, Nailtini, London SOHO, Josie Maran" border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5WJII8s_Fgk/UPTkee49_dI/AAAAAAAAARE/kLEtQ4OXDic/s320/DSC01244.JPG" title="Ipsy Jan Glam Bag 2013" width="320" /></a></div>
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I have so many makeup bags! That's perhaps one of my least favorite things about the Ipsy Glam Bags. Maybe if it was cute I would feel differently, but it's solid black on the outside - pretty underwhelming. I read on <a href="http://community.sephora.com/" target="_blank">Sephora's Beauty Talk</a> where someone had the idea to donate them to women's shelters with product you don't want. I just might do that!<br />
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<b>So, what do you fellow beauty babes think about this January 2013 Ipsy versus other subscriptions you've received? What do you do with all the bags? Was it worth $10 + shipping? </b>(I think so!...)<b><br /></b><br />
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<b>If you want an in detail review of one or more of these products let me know so I can write one just for <i>you</i> once I get to use it a good bit.</b></div>
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Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-51517447685812931042013-01-06T14:36:00.000-08:002013-04-21T15:26:33.937-07:00Jane Eyre: Book vs. Movie and a Lesson<div style="text-align: center;">
My blog isn't just about beauty. I'm a nerd that just happens to love makeup, but I truly love to read <i>more</i>. I found an <a href="http://tarasings.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">old blog</a> that I wrote only three posts in in 2011, and enjoyed reading up on my old posts, especially the one about <u>Jane Eyre</u> - <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Jane-Eyre-Publisher-Hardcover-Waterstones/dp/B004Q1K9FU/ref=sr_1_8?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1357511522&sr=1-8&keywords=jane+eyre" target="_blank">the book</a> vs. <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1229822/" target="_blank">the movie</a> - and the lesson I learned from both. <u>Jane Eyre</u> is my all time favourite book... ever. I've read it more than any other book. It encompasses everything I adore (including England... ;)). So, I thought I'd do an "encore" (isn't that the fancy word TV networks use for rerun?) post. Let me know your thoughts!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ED_fRbzuFSM/UOn6zxsTzNI/AAAAAAAAAPY/fVCEXKuA5Lc/s1600/photo+2+(3).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Book versus movie" border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ED_fRbzuFSM/UOn6zxsTzNI/AAAAAAAAAPY/fVCEXKuA5Lc/s400/photo+2+(3).jpg" title="Jane Eyre Charlotte Bronte" width="400" /></a></div>
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I love to go to the movies, mostly GOOD movies – serious, historical, dramatic. Now, don’t get me wrong, I love a good chick flick, but I truly value a classic. I’m here to make some observations about the movie I saw last night: Jane Eyre. It was fantastic, really awesome. I truly enjoyed it, and I even re-read the book again a month ago for the release of this very movie. (Have I ever said how very much I love to read?) I really enjoyed those two hours spent watching the plot unfold before me for about the 5th time in my life. However, I did have a slightly unsettled feeling every time the movie cut a corner to save on time or tweaked the plot to serve the director’s purpose. I know many people do not care whether movies take liberties with the original text, and that is fine! However, I do. I am not sure why, but I am pretty passionate about it being veritable to the original author’s designs, especially when that author is Charlotte Bronte. Thus, I wanted to lean over to my poor friend throughout the film, who probably did not care about each detail of the text, and explain to her why (in my opinion) something was so important, why an emotion should have been better portrayed, etc.</div>
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At one point in the movie, like in many I view, I had to use the restroom. Always happens. You are probably thinking, <em style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Then just go to the restroom before.</em> I did. Anyhow, as I walked (well, kind of sprinted) to the restroom, I wondered why it was I so thoroughly enjoy every minute I spend reading a plot unfold, understanding the character development, grasping the underlying emotions, and why the cinematic version leaves me wanting EVERY (and I mean <i>every</i>) TIME. First I thought, <em style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Does it really matter, Tara? You like to read. That’s all.</em> But, I really am not sure that’s it. Here is the small lesson I felt I learned from my reflections. It had to do with relationship, naturally.</div>
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In relationship, you have the choice to be the friend or spouse that only has time, energy, patience for the 110 minute or 72 hour version of your counterpart’s life, hopes, fears, dreams, needs, etc. Many, especially in our fast-paced, exigent society, opt for the former. We do not have the time to truly sit and hear the laying out of past, present and future. We do not give room for nuance, back-story or surrounding circumstance. We want to “just get to the point, already.” The lesson I learned, though, is when I approach relationship in that manner, as a movie, I want to see a little of the bad, a lot of the good and a nicely wrapped-up ending. I do not give room for the rest. The rest is what makes a story rich in the telling; it is what causes the audience to sympathize with the antagonist while finding frustration for the flaws in the protagonist. It makes the story genuine, authentic and believable. When you learn the story with “all the rest” in it, there is no room for embellishment or salesmanship. It is what it is, and therein lies the beauty. We are to love unconditionally – flaws and all – but how can we when we will not invest the initial time to truly <em style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">know </em>someone?</div>
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Am I saying a movie is always inadequate? No, not necessarily. But until you read the book, you won’t know what you are misssing, will you?</div>
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Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-60607446286436116202013-01-03T15:48:00.000-08:002013-04-21T15:26:45.291-07:00December Beauty Haul<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My First <span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(mega)</span></span> Haul!</span></h2>
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December was a <strike>big</strike> huge haul month for me this year. First off, I started a beauty blog. <i>Of course</i> I had to buy some things I was curious about or read about! Secondly, it's Christmas! I mean... how many of you <i>didn't</i> get something beauty related for Christmas? Thirdly, I was born in December. So, all those bday gift cards got spent...</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fp-KPCQAgdg/UOM7CR9zm9I/AAAAAAAAAOY/m46soLq3M5Y/s1600/IMG_1809.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Sephora, Target, Birchbox, Whole Body" border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fp-KPCQAgdg/UOM7CR9zm9I/AAAAAAAAAOY/m46soLq3M5Y/s320/IMG_1809.jpg" title="Beauty Haul " width="240" /></a></div>
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None of them are from one place. They came from either:</div>
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- Sephora (my fave)</div>
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- Target</div>
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- Birchbox</div>
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- Whole Body</div>
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- Ebay</div>
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- Amazon<br />
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- Gifts from others</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uiLOjvHIFuE/UOM7mtE0aeI/AAAAAAAAAOg/W4Few9YFI5Q/s1600/DSC01235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Target, Sephora, Birchbox, Whole Body" border="0" height="181" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uiLOjvHIFuE/UOM7mtE0aeI/AAAAAAAAAOg/W4Few9YFI5Q/s320/DSC01235.JPG" title="Beauty Haul" width="320" /></a></div>
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So, wanna know a super long list of a break down of what I got? I <i>knew</i> you would. So, here goes!</div>
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<b>Sephora Haul:</b></div>
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I've recently discovered Korres, so I went a little crazy with some bday gift cards. (Thanks, Mom!)</div>
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<li>Korres Pomegranate Pore Minimizing/Skin-Perfecting/Mattifying Primer</li>
<li>Korres Mineral Foundation in Porcelain</li>
<li>Korres Pomegranate Balancing Cream-Gel Moisturiser (For oily to combination skin)</li>
<li>Korres Wild Rose Instant Brightening Eye Treatment</li>
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<u><u>Also from Sephora:</u></u></div>
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<li>Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment (Sephora Birthday Gift sizes) in Original and Rose</li>
<li>Tarte emphasEYES inner rim brightener</li>
<li>Sephora professional eyeliner brush</li>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wQqrmvCxFaA/UONBOBGP8hI/AAAAAAAAAO0/UcGmnmi87a8/s1600/DSC01239.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Giovanni, Wonderstruck, Maybelline, Jason" border="0" height="198" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wQqrmvCxFaA/UONBOBGP8hI/AAAAAAAAAO0/UcGmnmi87a8/s320/DSC01239.JPG" title="Korres Beauty Haul" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Target Haul:</b></div>
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<li>Maybelline the Colossal Volum Express mascara in brown (I don't normally wear brown mascara, but wanted a cheapy one for those random au naturel days)</li>
<li>Maybelline Color Tattoo 24hr eyeshadow (recommended by <a href="http://www.essiebutton.com/2012/01/possible-new-holy-grail-maybelline.html" target="_blank">Essie Button</a>)</li>
<li>Pixi by Petra Lash Line Ink Eyeliner</li>
<li>Sonia Kasuk nail Colour in Mauving on Up (I have a random love for all things mauve recently)</li>
<li>Sally Hansen Hard as Nails Xtreme Wear Nail Color in Mint Sorbet</li>
<li>Revlon Colorstay Longwear Nail Enamel in Bare Bones (also recommended by Essie Button in her Winterlicious tag <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NQfY9EwsDTg" target="_blank">here</a>)</li>
<li>EOS Lip Balm in Raspberry</li>
<li>Taylor Swift Wonderstruck perfume</li>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-06LRi25htjs/UONBYD1mStI/AAAAAAAAAO8/_IfyFawtUqE/s1600/IMG_1812.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Korres, Tarte, Sonya Kashuk, Fresh Sugar, Pixi, Giovanni" border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-06LRi25htjs/UONBYD1mStI/AAAAAAAAAO8/_IfyFawtUqE/s320/IMG_1812.jpg" title="Beauty Haul" width="240" /></a></div>
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<b>Whole Body, Birchbox, and others:</b></div>
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<li>Giovanni 2chic Brazilian Keratin & Argan Oil Blow Out Styling Mist</li>
<li>Giovanni D:tox System replenishing facial moisturizer (I had just bought the way more expensive Korres, but this was $5.99 @ TJ Maxx! I mean... I couldn't just let it <i>sit</i> there.)</li>
<li>Jason Brigthening Apricot Scrubble (sweet gift from my husband after I mentioned I couldn't find it anywhere)</li>
<li>Jason Pure Natural Super-C Cleanser (also from my husband; it smells amazing!)</li>
<li>Nuxe Reve de Miel Lip Balm (OMG - amazing stuff!) (Birchbox)</li>
<li>NYX Blush in Taupe (for contouring for my pale skin)</li>
<li>Lipstick Queen Invisible Lip Liner (Birchbox)</li>
<li>Prestige Waterproof Eyeliner in Star (for my waterline... used once and worked great!)</li>
<li>Essie in Ballet Slippers and Wicked (gift from a sweet girl @ work)</li>
<li>Purple glitter polish from F21 (99 cents... come on!)</li>
<li>Nicole by OPI in Khloe Had a Little Lam-Lam (another gift from a coworker!)</li>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6KBtf-koxzo/UONBszGpifI/AAAAAAAAAPE/j44HyJp2Hf0/s1600/DSC01236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Nuxe, EOS, Lipstick Queen, Essie, Nicole by OPI, Prestige, F21" border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6KBtf-koxzo/UONBszGpifI/AAAAAAAAAPE/j44HyJp2Hf0/s320/DSC01236.JPG" title="Beauty Haul" width="305" /></a></div>
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Phew! Ok... that's all. Now, I want to hear from you on what you want a review on! What are you curious about? Want swatches? Don't spend your money. :) Let me tell you what I think!</div>
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Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919572261784475154.post-76914107921308275282012-12-31T19:34:00.000-08:002013-04-21T15:26:56.008-07:00My Beauty Library & December Favourites<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Favorite Products Vlog LaVanilla" border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NFKIULOhe4U/UOI-Pu1AuRI/AAAAAAAAAM8/waId7hsSxFI/s320/Screen+shot+2012-12-31+at+7.34.40+PM.png" title="LaVanilla Healthy Deoderant Review" width="320" /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's my FIRST VLOG!!! </span></div>
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FlEmI1uTt58" target="_blank">Here</a> I reviewed several of my Beauty Library products and some December favourites. <b>Let me just say I learned a few newbie lessons</b>:</div>
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1. When you have 20 products to review, prepare for a 26 minute video.</div>
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2. Oh, wait. YouTube only allows 9minute and 59second videos. Crap.</div>
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3. Learn how to use iMovie and edit the hell outta your video.</div>
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4. Why does it look so fuzzy? I guess the camera built into the Macbook Pro isn't going to cut it. </div>
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5. Wear stage makeup, or you'll look like you have nothing on. In the words of my husband: "I think you needed some bronzer or more blush." Haha! Believe me, I have plenty of makeup on. It's just the video quality.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bzmTWGfrphg/UOI-gKcOrII/AAAAAAAAANE/kKqhL-1z86M/s1600/DSC01227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bzmTWGfrphg/UOI-gKcOrII/AAAAAAAAANE/kKqhL-1z86M/s320/DSC01227.JPG" title="LaVanilla, e.l.f., Caudalie, Wonderstruck, Oscar Blandi, Maybelline" width="316" /></a></div>
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In case you didn't want to watch the video (I'm pretending not to hear you respond in the affirmative...), here's a synopsis!</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/product/productDetail.jsp?skuId=914101&productId=P254307&_requestid=138186#!keyword=OSCAR%20BLANDI%20Pronto%20Dry%20Shampoo%20P254307" target="_blank">Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Shampoo</a> - $21</b></div>
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I've stuck with this Beauty Library product for a long time, because it's not aerosol (ie won't clog before it's time). It has a pointed tip for easy application. It's smells wonderfully clean and lemony! Only downside is it's white, so it takes a lot of blending in my dark hair. I hope they one day do a tinted version.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bC6mvPsre3s/UOMa1aKIcII/AAAAAAAAANc/Nxkq90B-PA4/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-01-01+at+10.36.57+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="125" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bC6mvPsre3s/UOMa1aKIcII/AAAAAAAAANc/Nxkq90B-PA4/s200/Screen+shot+2013-01-01+at+10.36.57+AM.png" title="Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Shampoo Review" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/product/productDetail.jsp?skuId=1129295&productId=P175101&_requestid=138953#!keyword=bliss-%20lid%2Blash" target="_blank">Bliss Lid+Lash Wash Makeup Remover</a> - $16</b></div>
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It's a cooling gel consistency that doesn't leave a film on your face and does it's job! NO OIL! Love this stuff; best I've used <i>ever</i>.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_zyzBFbVnxM/UOMa2i0VwqI/AAAAAAAAANk/-J4zk8oBcbA/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-01-01+at+10.37.33+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="125" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_zyzBFbVnxM/UOMa2i0VwqI/AAAAAAAAANk/-J4zk8oBcbA/s200/Screen+shot+2013-01-01+at+10.37.33+AM.png" title="Bliss Lid+Lash Makeup Remover Review" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/product/productDetail.jsp?skuId=1174077&productId=P237120&_requestid=139219#!keyword=LAVANILA%20The%20Healthy%20Deodorant%20P237120" target="_blank">LaVanila: The Healthy Deodorant (Pure Vanilla</a>) - $18</b></div>
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I've used many natural (aluminum free) deodorants, and this is, by far, the best. I've tried others mainly because of the cost of this one, but I keep coming back. You get what you pay for. It's, by far, better than Tom's of Main and Clean. It smells heavenly & is so smooth and creamy.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/product/productDetail.jsp?skuId=455774&productId=P6025&_requestid=139614#!keyword=caudalie-%20beauty%20elixir" target="_blank">Caudalie Beauty Elixir</a> - $18</b></div>
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Absolutely LOVE this facial spritz. I has citrus oil, rosemary oil, peppermint oil and flower water (among other healthy, invigorating things). It's great for your skin... and for your brain. :) I use it when I need some refreshing. It's just a great pick-me-up midday. (I also use it to set my foundation and powder while applying makeup).<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6ybxZ_lbIy8/UOMa354MyRI/AAAAAAAAANs/Ov_1ep3hpEQ/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-01-01+at+10.38.25+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="125" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6ybxZ_lbIy8/UOMa354MyRI/AAAAAAAAANs/Ov_1ep3hpEQ/s200/Screen+shot+2013-01-01+at+10.38.25+AM.png" title="Caudalie Beauty Elixir Review" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.eyeslipsface.com/elf/lips/gloss/hypershine_gloss" target="_blank">e.l.f. Hypershine Gloss (Flirt)</a> - $1</b></div>
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Gotta love the price! I figured it would fade really quickly for $1, but it lasts ALL DAY! It's sticky, but it does it's job. I'm actually going to buy (almost) every shade. I also like the twist, click packaging.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XhWVkKvVxdQ/UOI-i-K1HHI/AAAAAAAAANM/aGepk7Js0u4/s1600/DSC01224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XhWVkKvVxdQ/UOI-i-K1HHI/AAAAAAAAANM/aGepk7Js0u4/s320/DSC01224.JPG" title="LaVanilla, e.l.f., Caudalie, Wonderstruck, Oscar Blandi, Maybelline" width="308" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.eyeslipsface.com/studio/eyes/eyeshadow/cream_eyeshadow" target="_blank">e.l.f. Studio Cream Eyeshadow (Dawn)</a> - $3</b></div>
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I was pleasantly surprised with this one! I use it with my Lorac Behind the Scenes Primer, and it does last all day! It's buildable, has a strong pigment & a great base color. I'm wish the pot was just a bit bigger. It's hard to get a good amount on your finger when the opening is so small. I'm thinking I'll definitely buy some more shades. </div>
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<b><a href="http://www.maybelline.com/Products/Face-Makeup/Concealer/Dream-Lumi-Touch-Highlighting-Concealer.aspx#shadedetails" target="_blank">Maybelline Dream Lumi Touch Highlighting Concealer (Ivory)</a> - $7.49</b></div>
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I tried this based on a recommendation from <a href="http://www.maskcara.com/" target="_blank">MaskCARA</a> and wasn't 100% sure I'd like it, but I've been pleasantly surprised! I don't use it as my only concealer, however, because I'd rather not "highlight" my blemishes, too. I mostly use it for under eyes and when I <a href="http://www.maskcara.com/2012/11/hac-yourself-flawless/" target="_blank">HAC</a>. I'll probably try some other highlighters when I run out, since I'm newer to HAC-ing. (Already know that <a href="http://www.sephora.com/high-beam-P1281?skuId=108829" target="_blank">Benefit's High Beam</a> is too shiny for me & too expensive - $26). But if I don't find anything better or with the same value, I'll definitely come back to the Dream Lumi Touch.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.merlenorman.com/webforms/product/Lip%20Revive" rel="" target="_blank">Merle Norman Lip Revive</a> - $20?</b></div>
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Price isn't on the site - you have to go to your local store. I have the old packaging, but I really love using this stuff. It keeps lipstick from feathering and serves as a great primer. It moisturizes just the right amount for lipstick application. I sometimes try to prep my lips with balms, and it just smears every where. This stuff doesn't do that at all. The higher price is due to it containing Beta Hydroxy Acid & Salicylic Acid. I won't probably buy again, because I'm trying to weed out my products with propylene glycol and parabens.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/product/productDetail.jsp?skuId=1369883&productId=P377520&_requestid=139977#!keyword=TAYLOR%20SWIFT%20Wonderstruck%20Rollerball%20P377520" target="_blank">Taylor Swift Wonderstruck Roller Ball</a> - $18</b></div>
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Oh, yes... the fragrance I'm ashamed to admit I love. It <i>doesn't</i> smell like a teenie-bopper perfume. Promise! It contains the followi<span style="font-family: inherit;">ng: <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17px;">Freesia, Green Tea, Apple Blossom, Raspberry, Dewberry.</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17px;"> I think it's the Green Tea that mutes the fruits a bit. It's not too fruity.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17px;">Lastly, I reviewed the <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/series/50886-wakefield-dynasty" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>Wakefield Dynasty books by Gilbert Morris</b></a>. It's like a nerdy girl's Downton Abbey with more history. I really loved "getting to know" King Henry the VIII, Queen Elizabeth, & John Wesley. These books were published a long time ago... they're not even on his website any more. But I know they're cheap now on Amazon or at your local library. If you're a UK geek like me go check them out!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17px;">Alright, folks. What are your thoughts on these products? What were you addicted to in the month of December? Or, better yet, what books are y'all reading?</span></span><br />
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Tara http://www.blogger.com/profile/10722889183507251960noreply@blogger.com1