The Best Shampoo I Have Ever Used

I have finally - and I mean, finally, found a shampoo and conditioner that I am in love with. My hair was always dry, damaged and very fine, no matter what I tried. Cutting several inches off helped a bit with the volume and split ends, but it still didn't feel amazing - that was until I received a sample of Redken Diamond Oil Shampoo and Conditioner in one of my beauty subscription boxes a few months ago!

 

 

Luckily, the salon that I go to is a Redken salon, so I've been able to buy these products myself every few months and now I would hate to live without them!

 

They make my hair feel super soft, strong and actually feel like they are repairing all the torture I have put my hair through in my 27 years (black spray paint hair dye on light blonde natural hair, anyone?)

 

I know there are other products in this line, but I haven't tried them yet. The shampoo and conditioner do the trick for me, although, I must admit, the price tag kills me! 

Have you found a perfect shampoo and conditioner to recommend? Or are you doing the no-poo method?

   

 

November 2013 Ipsy Bag

 

After being a little unimpressed with last month's Ipsy Bag - they really knocked it out of the park with November's! It arrived super early this month and I was excited to see 6 products, instead of the usual 5; this was a very nice bonus!

 

Pixi Beauty Bronzer in Subtly Suntouched - 3.2g

Full Size - $25.01 CAD

Value Received - $8.00

I have such a fair complexion that any time I have used bronzer I always looked ridiculous. I haven't tried this stuff yet, but it looks like it might be too dark for me. Regardless, I will try it out and if it works out, I might just have to buy the next shade lighter! Ipsy has introduced me to this brand before, and I really do like their products so I was over the moon to see a Pixi product in my bag again this month.

 

 

BH Cosmetics - Galaxy Chic Baked Eyeshadow Sample in 'Asteroid'

Full Size - $0.98 single eyeshadow in palette

Value Received - $0.98

This sample is only available in palettes, not individually so it was hard to gauge the value. I first opened this up and was stunned by the colour, it's just odd. It goes on very blue and smudges horribly. An interesting product, but not something I would try again!

 

 

Nailtini - Nailpolish in Caviar Cocktail - 15ml

Full Size - $13.00

Value Received - $13.00

This is a full sized product, but I don't know how many times I need to specify to Ipsy that I don't wear nail polish! My nails are terrible and I have never worn nail polish in my entire life.. I might be one of the only women in the world that can state that, but it's true. It seems like a nice product, and the colour would be nice for the holidays as it looks more like a sparkly silver, instead of gunmetal grey like it is described. Still, no nail polish, Ipsy! This is twice in a row now.

Em Michelle Phan - Lash Gallery Waterproof Mascara in Black - 7ml

Full Size - $20.00

Value Received - $5.00

I can't locate the actual size of the full size compared to the sample, so I am guessing that the sample is about 1/4 of what the full size would be. This mascara boasts dramatic volume and waterproof. It is definitely waterproof and does provide volume. I've used better mascara, but this is a good product and I'm happy I was able to give is a try! I love mascara samples in beauty boxes, I very rarely have to buy any myself anymore and I do always use them until the end.

 

 

 

Be a Bombshell - Lip Crayon in Hot Damn - 2.5g

Full Size - $14.00

Value Received - $14.00

This colour is not something that I ever would have chosen for myself, but I actually like it. It's very bright and bold, which is not something I would normally where. I'll have to find a place to wear this to, but I really like the product itself; it goes on smooth and lasts.

 

 

 

 

Starlooks - Eye Pencil in Topaz - 2.4g

Full Size - $14.00

Value Received - $14.00

I was a little worried when I saw the colour was 'Topaz' but when I opened it up, it's actually more of a glittery silver colour (would have matched the nail polish I received perfectly, haha!) and while I never thought I would wear it, it actually makes a nice highlighter in the corner of your eye. The eyeliner does smudge quite a bit more then I would like, though.

 

Overall, I am impressed with this month's bag. 6 total products instead of the normal 5, and of the 6 there were 3 products that were full size.

 

Total Value of Products Received: $54.98

Total Cost of Ipsy Bag: $15.84 (it costs me more, I'm Canadian!)

What did you receive in this month's Ipsy Bag?

   

 

My Current Wants

I don't know what is happening but the last few days I think the Winter blah's have hit me early. I have zero energy to do much of anything, and I have zero inspiration. Not sure, but I hope I kick it soon!

 

1. Camera Bag by Sizzle Strap on Etsy - $144.47 CAD

I am badly in need of a good camera bag. One that will hold my lenses and my camera securely. Having them in my purse wrapped in plastic just won't do any longer.

2. Pink and Gray Infinity Scarf by GertieBaxter on Etsy - $31.57 CAD

This scarf is absolutely gorgous and I have had my eye on this shop for months!

3. Geometric Pillow - $46.02 CAD

I love this pillow - so bright and bold! I am not sure where I would put this, but I would definitely make a spot.

4. Jessica Simpson 'Forever' Skinny Jeans - $64.32 CAD

These jeans look awesome and I have wanted to try the Jessica Simpson line for a while now.. Not sure if they would work for me, but I definitely want to try them out.

5. Slouchy Cable Cardi Sweater - $49.50

I am in need of a new heavy duty sweater - my favourite one just bit the dust in my last laundry load. There were threads everywhere, and I really like the style of this one.

6. Makeup Artist Picks - MAKE UP FOR EVER - $362.00 CAD

Oh, this set just kills me. As much as I would LOVE to have it, there is no way I could justify the price for myself.

7. Steve Madden Easy Going Tote, Extra Large - $64.10 CAD

Just realized this is on sale! It is gorgeous and I have been wanting something that is larger as I regularly carry around quite a few books (large planner, reading book, work book, etc.) The sale price might just have me convinced...

   

 

Ipsy Bag Review - October 2013

I am like a kid on Christmas morning every time I see that shiny pink metallic envelope in our mailbox! I received my October Ipsy Bag about a week or two ago and have been testing out the products and here are my thoughts on this month's bag:

1. Zoya Nail Polish in Giovanna

Full Size: $8.00 for 0.5 oz.

Received: Full size - $8.00

I'm not too impressed. First off, I don't wear nail polish - ever. I have the worst nails in the world and have a habit of biting them so no, not going to use this product. And even if I did wear nail polish every once in a while, this is not a nice shade for me.

 

2. Buxom Full-On Lip Polish in Dolly

Full Size: $23.00 for 0.15 oz.

Received: 0.07 oz. = $11.50

I was a little worried at seeing the colour and that it is described as being a 'muted plum' but it actually looks pretty nice. The lipgloss itself goes on very well, is long lasting and the tingly effect when you apply it is amazing! I would definitely buy this in the future, but would probably try a different shade or two.

 

3. La Fresh Eco-Beauty Oil-Free Face Cleanser Wipes

Full Size: $9.99 for 30 wipes

Received: Packet of 10 wipes = $3.33

I don't really like the scent of this, so I can't say I've given them too much of a try to see if they actually work.

 

4. Big Sexy Hair Blow Dry Volumizing Gel

Travel Size: $5.00 for 1.7 oz.

Received: Travel size = $5.00

This is a brand that I've always wanted to try so I was happy to see this in my bag - and plus, with my fine hair, I am always looking for good volumizing products and it definitely does what it says it will. Not sure if I would trade in my go-to volumizer for this - but it's nice and I'm happy I was able to try it out!

 

5. Nourish Organic Body Lotion

Full Size: $9.99 for 8 oz.

Received: 1 oz. = $1.25

I like it - it works well and smells nice, but I was hoping for maybe a bit bigger sample, especially of something that is so inexpensive to begin with, but I can't complain too much.

Total Cost of Products: $29.08

Total Cost of Ipsy Bag: $15.84 (It costs more for me, I'm Canadian!)

Savings: $13.24

Overall, I have to say that this is the first Ipsy Bag that I have been extremely disappointed in. It's the cheapest subscription box service I have found that will ship to Canada, so I'm not ready to give up just yet, though. They have impressed me in the past few months, so we will wait and see what November brings!

  What did you receive in your Ipsy Bag this month?    

 

Out With the Old

A weekend recap will come later, since this is still my long weekend! :) But, I just wanted to share that I went ahead with my hair change this past Saturday. I am no longer a blonde, at least for a little while, anyway. I enjoyed cutting 7 inches off my hair a few months ago that I figured why not. 

 

It looks a little more red in these photos then it actually is.. it is more of a medium/dark brown with a coppery highlight.

 

 

 

 

September Top Box Subscription Review

 I was beyond excited that Top Box opened up Canadian subscriptions, and that I was able to subscribe (they usually have a waitlist!). I had high expectations and I wasn't disappointed at all with my first box!

COVER FX Anti-Aging Primer

Size: 0.16 oz

Price: $38.00 for 1 oz (full size)

I've been on a search for a good primer and this stuff works wonderfully! I am so happy that I was able to try it out and know that it will work for me. It goes on very smooth and holds make up in place very well - I have noticed a difference both with the softness of my skin and on how much longer my make up seems to last through out the day!

 

Lise Watier HydraSmart 3D Hydration Tinted Veil

Size: .07 oz

Price: $35.00 for 1.35 oz (full size)

This is a VERY small sample, and I haven't tried it out.. I've heard good things about Lise Watier products and can't wait to try it though, just wish the sample size was a bit bigger!

 
Katy Perry 'Killer Queen' Eau de Parfum

Size: 0.05 oz

Price: $52.98 for 1.7 oz

This is actually a good size for a perfume sample, and such an expensive one at that! I normally don't wear perfume as I hate the smell, they are usually way too strong for my poor nose and head. But this one, I can actually stand and smells pretty good. It's strong, but not too strong. Definitely something that I wouldn't have bought and tried on my own.

Kérastase Paris Elixir Ultime Serum

Size: 0.1 oz

Price: $25 for 1.69 oz

Again, very small sample size.. would have liked a little bit more. I've used it twice and could maybe get another use out of the sample. It did wonders for my hair, though, and I just may have to buy the full size! I have very fine thin hair and this serum completely smoothed it out and made it super glossy!

Last, but certainly not least, was Redken Diamond Oil Shampoo and Conditioner samples. I was so excited to see these samples in here! My salon is a Redken salon and I adore their products, and these two were no exception. I have no retail price as they are only carried in salons, but I'm sure they aren't cheap! The samples were actually a pretty generous size on these two (1.7 oz on the Shampoo and 1 oz on the conditioner), which is great. I've used them twice so far and have definitely seen and felt and improvement in my hair.

I also received a special Chatelaine magazine that was printed specifically for Top Box, which was a nice addition as well.

Overall, I am impressed with the brands I received in my box, and really for $13 a month, you can't go wrong! If any of my Canadian friends wants an invitation to Top Box, I do have 3 to give away!

 

September Ipsy Bag Subscription Reveal + Review

It's that time of the month already - my Ipsy Bag subscription has arrived!

First of all, I love how Ipsy packages their products. I get excited just seeing that metallic pink bubble mailer in my mailbox! But then they always include a small travel pouch for the products - not that I could ever use so many but they are handy to carry a few products in your purse.

 

STARLOOKS Kohl Eye Pencil in Obsidian

Retail Price: $12.00

First of all, I was super excited to see this in my bag. My eyeliner just ran out the day before so I jumped at the chance to try this out. This eye liner stays put pretty well and is very useful is creating an awesome smokey eye! 

Kohl Eye Pencil

Kohl Eye Pencil

 

 Elizabeth Mott It's So Big Volumizing Mascara

Retail Price: $19.99 for Full Size

I'm probably one of the few people that LOVE to receive mascara samples. Mascara is the #1 beauty product I use and I'm always on the hunt for awesome mascara. This one definitely makes lashes longer, but I'm not so certain it adds very much volume. Still, it seems to be a good, long lasting product, and I'll definitely continue to use the sample!

NYX Single Eyeshadow in Cryptonite

Price: $4.50

This shade is described as a 'glittery black' which it definitely is! I tried it out and the pigmentation is great, and I've heard nothing but good things about the NYX brand (although I've never tried their products before this). The shade is very dark, but perfect for a night out and creating a smokey eye look.

J.Cat Beauty Fantabulous Lipstick in Honeycrisp

Price: $2.49

I can't believe how little this lipstick costs! This colour is absolutely perfect for my fair skin, and I can wear it everyday for just a bit of colour. I really lucked out with the shade and with the price, I would definitely buy this and maybe try some more colours in the future.

Freeman Feeling Beautiful Facial Hydrating Paper Mask

Freeman Feeling Beautiful Facial Brightening Paper Mask

Freeman Feeling Beautiful Facial Purifying Paper Mask

Retail Price: $1.99 each

These products interest me, but based on some reviews I've read, I'm a little concerned to try them out. I have very sensitive, dry skin so a lot of masks and products DO irritate it, and I've read some reviews that say this happens. One weekend I might give one a try and see what happens, though!







Overall, I'm impressed with Ipsy again - for only $10 a month, the first product alone made this month's subscription worth it! So, which products did you receive this month and were you happy with your bag?

 

A New Me... Minus 7 Inches of Hair!

I did it.. I was so excited about making a change, but a little nervous too. I worn my hair the same way every day (except our wedding day) since I was 3 years old. I never changed it, only trimmed an inch off every now and then, and it was always super long. The colour has changed many times over the years but not my cut or style.

Sorry for the crappy pictures, but here is the new me, minus 7 inches of hair:

It feels amazing and my hair feels like it has so much more life and body to it already! My stylist is fantastic and did a fabulous job, I couldn't be any happier with the change.

   

August 2013 Ipsy Review

My Ipsy bag came fast this month, which was good - I was a little worried that I should have skipped 2 months with our move coming up, but it was fast so it's all good. I'm still upset that I have to skip next month, but with the cost of mail forwarding here, it just makes sense and I would rather not chance it coming here when we have already moved.

I have to say, I am truly loving Ipsy right now! Each month I have been more and more impressed with their selections and I like that it is tailored to each individual person via the quiz on their website. All the samples are very generous sizes and I'm getting to try out tons of products that I may not even heard of. Plus, for like $10 a month, you can't go wrong!

First of all, how cute is this little make up bag that had all the products in it? It's adorable and perfect for traveling!

Nyx Cream Blush in Golden

Retail Price: $6

It's not as red and bright as the photo shows (sorry!) and is perfect for every day wear. It goes on smooth and stays put all day. I haven't had much luck in the past with cream blush, but I am really like this product!

Noya Vanilla Lip Balm

Retail Price: $3.99

Anyone who knows me knows how much I love my lip balm. I carry anywhere from 3-5 tubes on me at once and get really dry lips, especially in Winter. This stuff smells great, and goes on very silky and smooth, like lip gloss. I would definitely buy this product! I also love the fact that it is all natural.

Pixi Lash Booster Mascara in Blackest Black

Retail Price: $19

Very cute packaging and definitely something I could use! I still have my last mascara sample that I am working through so I haven't tried this one yet, but can't wait to do so.

Pacifica Multi-Mineral BB Cream

Retail Price: $16 (full size)

It almost has a shimmer effect to it, but goes on very smooth and leaves my skin feeling silky.

Michael Todd True Organics Facial Scrub

Retail Price: $18 (full size)

This was a VERY generous sized sample and it has a very clay like feel to it. I'm pretty impressed with this stuff so far!

So, what did you all receive in this months Ipsy bag?