May 2016 Ipsy Bag: Destination Chic

Hey guys! It's time again for another post on what I got in this month's Ipsy bag. The theme this month is called Destination Chic, which makes it sound like the products are good for travel. 

The bag everything comes in is cute with the print of all different parts of the world, but it's a very cheap vinyl feel. The snap closure is a nice change from the zippered bags they usually provide. 

The first product I got is from Pacifica, and it's their Natural Mineral Coconut Eyeshadow Trio, and it comes with the shades Skinny Dip, Crush and Lovely. I have yet to swatch these shadows, but if they're like other Pacifica shadows I've tried in the past, then I won't really care for them. The shades themselves are very pretty though, but very Fall-like. 

Next up is the Formula 10.0.6 Pores Be Pure Skin-Clarifying Mud Mask. This is a brand I've seen at Ulta and have been curious about for a while, but never had the chance to try. You all know my love for face masks, so I was thrilled to have received this. It's been a whie since Ipsy has sent a face mask in my bag! There are a few ingredients in this that I need to research, because I'm staying away from certain ones right now, but if this gets the go-ahead to use, then I'll be using it!

I can't tell you how excited I was when I finally stopped receiving nail polishes in my Ipsy bags. I'd purposely give them bad reviews, and specifically have stated that I do not want nail polish. Well imagine my surprise when I saw I would be getting the Aurora Gel Effect Nail Polish in the shade Old School Pink. I can't say I hate the color, because I love hot pink, but I'm very disappointed in getting this when I know it's just going to sit around and collect dust. 

You all know how much I'm obsessed with lip balms. I was ecstatic to see that I would be receiving the Hanalei Lip Treatment, even though I have never heard of the brand, until I looked at the ingredients. The very first ingredient is Lanolin. If you saw my most recent empties post, you know I got rid of the Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask due to an allergic reaction to the Lanolin in the product. I don't know now whether I should try this and see what it does to me, or just give it away to a friend. Either way, I'm sad I most likely will not be able to use this.

The last product I received is the Smashbox X-Rated Mascara. I feel like this is a newer mascara for the brand, but I've never tried it. To be honest, I have so many small samples, as well as full sized mascaras to use up, that I probably won't be using this for quite a while. Mascara is one of my favorite makeup products to use, so I'm sure it'll get used eventually. 

That's everything I got in this month's bag, and unfortunately, I've also decided that this will be my last Ipsy bag. I haven't been blown away by an Ipsy bag in a very long time, and with all the different products I have in my stash, it just doesn't seem worth it to me anymore. I loved my time with Ipsy, and I might even go back in the future, but I feel that now is a good time to cancel. Sorry to all of you who enjoyed reading my Ipsy posts!

April 2016 Ipsy Bag: The Dreamers

Hi everyone! I received my Ipsy bag a little early this month, yesterday actually, so that was a pleasant surprise! The theme this time is called The Dreamers. 

Now if you know me, you know how much I love my tie-dye! I'm a hippy at heart. I love the style of the bag, but I do wish it was maybe a different color scheme. 

The first products I received are two sheet masks from Purlisse. One is a Blue Lotus + White Tea, and the other is Blue Lotus + Seaweed. I was never really the biggest fan of sheet masks, but Purlisse is a brand I really do like, so I'm definitely going to use these and see how I get on with them. 

Next up is the Crown Brush C427 Duo Fiber Blush Brush. Now I'm not usually into Crown Brush for some reason, but this brush is incredibly soft, and I love how there are little dips in the handles for your fingers. It's so cool, and you can also use this for foundation or highlighter as well. I got a brush similar to this last month too, so I'm pretty overloaded in the brush department.

I hardly ever use eyeliner, so the Starlooks Luxe Longwear Eye Pencil in Jet probably won't be used much. I'll give it a go and see if it's nice for tightlining or something. 

I love Tarte Lip products, so I was pleased to see a mini LipSurgence Lip Creme in Wonder in my bag! It's a cute little sample and the color is very pretty, so that will definitely get use.

The last product I received is by Trust Fund Beauty, and it's their That Glo Tho Face Highlighter. Honestly, I'll probably never use this because it's a champagne-y gold color, it's a cream, and I just am not a fan of highlighters in general. 

I hate to say this, but this might be my last Ipsy bag. I've been with Ipsy since pretty much the beginning, and there are only so many sample products I can use without getting totally bored. While I've loved Ipsy, I think it's just my time to say goodbye. I might give it just one more month, but if I do, then that one will definitely be my last one, for sure. While I'm still deciding what to do, here is my referral link to sign up for your own Ipsy bag. You get 5 deluxe size products, sometimes full size too, for just $10 a month, plus shipping for some. It is a great deal, and some months are better than others, but I love getting products I had never heard of, or learning about indie brands that aren't as mainstream.  

If you're already an Ipsy subscriber, what did you get in your bag?

March 2016 Ipsy Bag: Hello Spring

Hi everyone! I just got my Ipsy bag in the mail today, so I figured I'd take pictures while I still had enough light and share what I got! I was excited for my bag this month after looking at sneak peeks of what I would be receiving. So lets see what I got!

*Ipsy link is an affiliate code*

The theme this month is Hello Spring, and the bag I received is pretty, but not something I'd normally go for. I heard there were different colors to the bags being sent out, and mine is just meh. I'll probably end up giving it away. 

The first product I got is the Vera Mona Lotus Eyeshadow in the shade Clover. I'm sorry I didn't think to open it up and show the color, but it's a very pretty, shimmery peachy coral shade. It seems like a perfect color for Spring, and I can't wait to play with it!

Next up is the Marc Anthony Nourishing Argan Oil of Morocco 3 Day Smooth Perfect Blow Dry Smoothing Cream. Dear lord, is that a mouthful! Anyway, I feel like I've gotten Marc Anthony products in the last few bags, so I'm a bit over it, but I will give this a go. It seems like I can use this as maybe a leave-in conditioner, so hopefully I'll like it. 

I was so excited to find out I would be receiving a NYX Liquid Suede Cream Lipstick, and three different shades were sent out. I ended up with the ridiculous shade Pink Lust. I got so excited, I had to try it on right when I opened the bag, and I hate to report that I so don't like this at all! I look like a cartoon character with this on, and it's dry and flaky. It could be user error on my part, and I may have put on too much. I'll play around with this and report back. 

I had heard of the brand Me me me very briefly in the past, but had never tried anything from them. Getting brushes in my Ipsy bags always makes me happy, and I got their Loose Powder Brush. I don't know if it's just me, but this brush seems awfully small to be a powder brush. I'd probably use it for highlighting or setting concealer under my eyes. It is a very soft brush, and I'm happy to add it to my ever growing brush collection. 

The last product I received is the Pixi Beauty Blush Duo in Rose Gold. I've tried a few products from the Pixi brand and haven't been let down much. This duo looks so freaking beautiful and perfect for my skin tone. I haven't swatched it yet, but I cannot wait to play with it! 

That's everything I got! Other than the NYX product being a possible dud, I'm very happy once again with everything. If you want your own Ipsy glam bag, I'd love it if you used my referral link here! every month you receive 5 deluxe sized, and at times full sized products, for just $10 a month, plus shipping for some. These bags are usually pretty amazing, and I learn about new brands I had never heard of before. 

If you're already subscribed to Ipsy, what did you get in your bag?

Review: City Color Eyeshadow Trio in Falling Leaves

*Some links are affiliate links*

Hey guys! Today I'm going to be reviewing the City Color Trio I received in my Ipsy bag last month called Falling Leaves. I thought the colors were really pretty, and I was excited to see how the shadows worked for me. 

Here is just a little info of the product from Ipsy:

City Color Eyeshadow Trio features three complimentary shades in one travel-friendly palette. Trio includes neutral shades in matte burnt orange, metallic bronze and champagne highlight. 

There are only two trios, and the City Color website says that there are limited quantities and only available to subscribers of the Ipsy Glam Bag for January 2016. I find that a little odd, and I haven't tried ordering the other one, which is called Blooming Flowers. 

Anyway, I think the colors are really beautiful. Looking at them in the package, they really do remind me of the Fall, which threw me off considering we're heading into Spring. The burnt orange and champagne shade are pretty warm-toned, and I feel the bronze shade is pretty neutral. They compliment each other, so that made my OCD happy. 

I did a very simple look where I first took the burnt orange shade and blended that all through my crease. I then took the champagne shade and placed that on the inner half of my eye, then used the bronze shade on the outer half of my eye. The shadows go on nicely and blend well, and the look was nice and simple to do. I feel like the colors aren't that pigmented though. 

The initial swatches were fairly impressive but a little patchy, and on the eye they look nice as well. After just a few hours though, they faded like crazy and it barely looked like I had eyeshadow on. For $5.99, I feel like these are an okay product, but I would never buy one for myself. The colors are beautiful, but that's where it stops for me. I'll probably get a little use out of this trio, but I don't see myself reaching for it often.

Be sure to subscribe to Ipsy for $10 a month, plus shipping for some, if you want to receive 4-5 beauty products in a cute makeup bag every month! 

What do you think of City Color products?

February 2016 Ipsy Bag: Pretty in #IpsyPink

*Links used are affiliate links*

Hi guys! I finally received my Ipsy bag in the mail yesterday. I swear, shipping takes longer and longer every month, and it's getting a bit annoying. Anyway, the theme this month is Pretty In #IpsyPink.

The bag itself is kinda cute, but not really my style. The front is textured and has an emoji style envelope on the front, and just plain hot pink on the back. The products I received, I'm half and half about. 

The first product I received is a Luxie Beauty Small Tapered Blending Brush 231. This brush is the perfect size for my hooded lids with applying color where I need it. I don't have a blending brush quite this small in my collection, so I'm pretty stoked to have one now. I've gotten Luxie brushes in past Ipsy bags, and the quality is pretty impressive. 

Next up is a deluxe sample of the new Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Oil. First of all, the scent of this is amazing, and smells like lavender. What I'm not quite sure about is using it as an actual primer. I typically have oily skin, so using an oil as a primer just won't work for me. What I'll most likely do is use a little bit mixed into my foundation. That trick helps my foundations go on better and makes it look less cakey. 

Then we have the MOR Emporium Classics Hand & Body Lotion in the scent Candied Vanilla. I've never heard of this brand before in my life, but when I opened this, the scent was just incredible! It smells so warm and lovely, and I'll probably strictly use this as a hand cream. I'm not wasting this goodness on my body.

Next is the VINTAGE by Jessica Leibeskind Sparkling Lipgloss in Pink Sequin. Not a fan of this honestly. If it were just a pink color without sparkle, I'd be happy. I'm 27 years old, so sparkly lips are a thing of the past and for me, there is just way too much sparkle. It's a little sticky, but not terrible. 

The last product I received is by Tre'StiQue, and it's their Baby Blush Stick in the shade Bora Bora Coral. I'm a huge fan of Tre'StiQue products and have gotten quite a few in previous Ipsy bags. However, with my oily skin, I'm not a fan of cream blushes. I do really like the color of this, so I'll give it a try, but I don't have high expectations. 

I'm super excited about this! I managed to save up 1,500 points and cashed them in for the Colourpop Forever Freshman Super Shock Shadow set. I have just a few Colourpop products, so I was really excited to be able to get this. The shades included are Crimper, As If, Melrose, Koosh, 90210, and Baby T. I'm honestly not sure if you can get this on the Colourpop website anymore, but I've heard some amazing things about the shade Koosh, and I can't wait to play with it!

So overall, like I said above, I half like my bag, and half is just meh. There are months that are amazing, some are not so amazing, and then some are just alright, like this month. If you want to get your own Ipsy bag, I'd love it if you used my referral link here! It costs $10 a month, plus shipping for some, and you get 5 beauty products sent to you every month, and when you review the products sent, you earn points that you can redeem for more products! It's a pretty sweet deal if you ask me. 

If you're already subscribed to Ipsy, what did you get this month?

January 2016 Ipsy Bag: All Eyes On You

*Ipsy link is an affiliate code*

Hi guys! Today I'm going to be sharing with you all what I got in this month's Ipsy bag. It came just a couple days ago, which is early for me honestly. This month was a good one, and the theme is All Eyes On You. 

I think the bag everything came in is so cute! It's got a vinyl feel to it, and the back of it is a pretty blue color. The zipper is at the top of the bag, which I definitely appreciate. 

The first product I received is a travel size of the Skyn Iceland Glacial Cleansing Cloths. I love the Skyn Iceland brand and am currently using a cleanser of theirs that is pretty darn good. I can always use wipes like these. 

Next up is a City Color Eyeshadow Trio in Falling Leaves. It comes with a matte burnt orange, metallic bronze and a champagne highlight color that look pretty nice, but I have yet to swatch them and see how good they are. City color isn't really a brand I've dipped my toes into. 

Next is a Lasting Smiles Lip balm in the scent Peppermint Creme. I love lip balms and have a stash of them that will probably last me for the rest of my life. The cool thing about this brand is that for every one of these lip balms sold, it helps to fund cleft surgeries for children. Every 1,000 sold helps out one child. 

Then we have a Tre'StiQue Mini Matte Lip Crayon in the shade Florence Fig. This is a beautiful color and I'm pretty sure I've gotten one of their lip crayons in a previous bag before. This brand makes some nice products though, so I don't mind having another one!

The last product I received is theBalm Mr. Write(Now) Eyeliner in the shade Jack B. Bronze. I've tried a few theBalm products and haven't been too impressed honestly. The eyeliner I got is broken and fell out when I first opened it, but it's still usable, so I won't bother contacting Ipsy Care about it.

That's everything I got! Not too bad for just $10 a month, if you ask me. If you want your own Ipsy bag, I'd love it if you used my affiliate code here. Like I said, it's just $10 a month, plus shipping for some, and you get typically 5 deluxe beauty products to try. Occasionally you'll get a full size product, which is pretty nice!

If you're already subscribed, what did you receive?

Review: Clark's Botanicals Deep Moisture Mask

Hi guys! Today I'm going to be reviewing a product that I received in this month's Ipsy bag, the Clark's Botanicals Deep Moisture Mask. I always love using hydrating masks in the Winter after using a deep cleansing mask so my skin doesn't get too dry. I was really excited to try this out as the line claims to be organic. 

Here is some info on the product from the Clark's Botanicals website: 

This mask helps to revitalize environmentally stressed, dry complexions. With each use, skin is infused with hydration and begins to glow. Over time, the fine lines and creases become less visible.

Benefits of the mask:

- Instantly calms redness and softens skin with with Algae extract
- Soothes inflammation with Comfrey root extract  
- Delivers potent antioxidant properties with Japanese Green Tea
- Helps to balance stressed skin with Jasmine Absolute

This product is said to be for dry skin, aging skin and stressed skin. A full sized 1.7 ounce jar costs a whopping $72! The directions on the website say to smooth over a clean face, leave on for 5-10 minutes, then rinse off with warm water. You can also apply a very thin layer to leave on overnight. I'm not sure if there was a discrepancy with the packaging on mine, but the directions on the jar I have say to leave it on for 15-20 minutes, not 5-10. 

I left it on for close to 20 minutes, and wanted to rip my face off honestly, this burned so bad! I'm not sure what ingredient is in this that caused it, but it wasn't very fun. Once the 20 minutes was up, I couldn't wait to rinse this off my face, and while rinsing, my skin felt like I was pouring acid over it. My face was so red and swollen afterwards, so I must either be allergic to something in this, or my skin is just super sensitive. If you have sensitive skin, I highly recommend NOT using this at all! The price alone made me cringe, and I'll gladly keep buying the GlamGlow hydrating mask at $69 instead.  

Their other products do seem nice, and you can check them out here, but I would be wary about trying any others due to the nasty reactions I had.

*Ipsy link is an affiliate link*

December 2015 Ipsy Bag

Hello everyone! It's time for me to share my last Ipsy bag of the year with you guys, and this one is pretty darn good. 

The style of the bag isn't my favorite honestly. I like that it's red, but that's it. I do actually appreciate though that the zipper of the bag is on the very top. Most Ipsy bag zippers aren't like that, and it can be annoying. The products are what impressed me most!

First up is a Pacifica Power of Love Natural Lipstick in the shade Nudie Red. I don't see much red in this though, more of a nude/mauve color. I've never been really happy with the Pacifica products I've tried, but I'm pretty excited to try this. I've gotten more into lipsticks lately, so I'm in the mood to try them all.

Next up is the Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Eye Shadow Primer. I love me a good eye shadow primer, and I've never tried this brand's before. I've been fairly impressed with other products I've tried from this line before. 

Then we have a ModelCo Lip Enhancer Illusion Lip Liner in a universal shade. Despite the packaging making me think it was going to be hot pink, it's a very natural looking nude/pink. I'm also delving into the lip liner world, so this is a good start for me!

I'm all about taking care of my super dry hair lately, so the Marc Anthony Coconut Oil & Shea Butter Deep Conditioning Treatment will get love from me. Ever since trying out the Keranique that I had reviewed previously, my hair is taking quite a bit to get back to normal.

I received a deluxe sample of the Clark's Botanicals Deep Moisture Mask. I'm so excited to use this because I love using moisturizing masks after a detoxifying mask in the Winter time, to help combat dry skin. I'm trying to use the GlamGlow hydrating mask sparingly because of how expensive it is, and I can get a good 2-3 uses out of this little jar. 

I'm not sure if everyone got this in their bag, but I also ended up receiving an Em Cosmetics Shade Play Artistic Eye Color Palette called Casablanca Neutrals. This is right up my alley color wise, and I've wanted to try this line for quite a while now, but it's pretty darn expensive. This was a nice little extra to see in my bag!

I'm sure it's obvious, but I'm so happy with the products this month! I was on the verge of cancelling, but now I'm going to keep my subscription going and see what the new year brings. If you're not already subscribed to Ipsy, you can do so here! It's only $10 a month, plus shipping for some, and you get typically 5 deluxe sized samples, sometimes full sized products, sent to you in a little makeup bag every month.  

If you're already subscribed to Ipsy, what did you get in your bag?

*Links contain affiliate markers*

November 2015 Ipsy Bag

Hey guys! I finally received my Ipsy bag in the mail yesterday. Every month it seems to get here later and later, which is kind of annoying, but I'm glad it's here! Lets see what I got this month!

The theme this month is Beauty Blast, and the bag that the products come in is probably my favorite design since subscribing. I love anything galaxy themed and the color scheme is really nice too. 

The first product I received is the SLMissGlam Boutique Blusher Brush. The main reason I like this brush is because it's pink, but it's so stinking soft, I can't wait to use it! It seems a bit small for blush, so I may use it for highlighter or contouring, but I will try it for blush and see how I get along with it. 

The next product is the Coolway Stronghold Spray. It says you can use this either on dry or wet hair, but I don't really care for a product like this honestly. I don't use many spray type products in my hair unless it's a leave-in conditioner. I'll give it a shot sometime, but this is the product I'm most disappointed in getting. 

Next up is the ModelCo Highlighting Trio. Another not so great product for me since I have very oily skin. Cream or liquid highlighting products just don't go well with my skin so I tend to stay away from them. Maybe I can use them as cream eyeshadow bases instead. 

Then we have the Smashbox Full Exposure Mascara. I always love sample sizes of mascaras, and I don't believe I've ever tried this particular one. Smashbox has always been hit or miss with the products I've tried, so I'm hoping I like this. As far as I know, everyone received this mascara in their bags this month. 

The last product I received is the INSPR Beauty Eyeshadow in the shade Carnival. I think this is such a pretty taupe-y grey shade, and I'm pretty excited to try it out. I've never heard of this brand before, so it's nice to get something new to try. 

If you want to get your own Ipsy bag, you can do so via my referral link here! It's only $10 a month, plus shipping for some, and you get 4-5 deluxe sized samples of makeup, skincare, haircare etc. I'm divided on liking this month's bag, but usually they're pretty great for the price you pay!
 

October 2015 Ipsy Bag

Hi guys! I finally received my Ipsy bag for October this past weekend. Seeing which products I was getting beforehand, I was actually pretty excited this month! Until I got my bag in the mail that is. I had redeemed points last month to get a certain product, and they sent me the wrong one! 

I'm not a huge fan of the actual bag everything came in. One side is gold, the other is black. The theme this month is Alter Ego.

The first product I received is the Royal & Langnickel Medium Eye Shader Brush. I've never tried anything from this brand before, but the brush I got is incredibly soft, and it's pink! I can never have enough brushes, so I'm really happy to have gotten this. 

Next up is the Beauty Without Cruelty Fragrance Free Hand & Body Lotion. This truly is fragrance free, which I'm actually happy about. My allergies have been going nuts lately, and it's being triggered by certain fragrances. This has shea butter, jojoba, and kukui nut oil in it, so it's great for hydration. My sad, dry hands will definitely appreciate this!

I'm so excited to have received the it Cosmetics Hello Lashes 5-in-1 Mascara! I love it Cosmetics as a brand, but have never tried this mascara. I've heard good and bad things about it, but I'm excited to give it a try!

Next is the Nourish Organic Pure Hydrating Argan Face Serum. I've gotten this brand before in previous Ipsy bags, but honestly haven't tried them yet. This is said to be for normal to dry skin, and my skin is already drying out with the colder weather we've been having. This will probably be put to use in the coming months!

The last product I received is theBalm Cosmetics Meet Matt(e) Hughes Long Lasting Liquid Lipstick in the shade Committed, which is a pinky nude color. I was super excited to try out this little sample, and it doesn't disappoint. I tried it right when I got this bag in the mail, and I love the color and how it applies. It is pretty drying though, but I typically expect that from liquid lipsticks. 

Now, the product they sent me for redeeming my points is the BellaPierre Gel Eyeliner in the shade Ebony. While this is a decent eyeliner, it's not what I had redeemed my points for! I had to go back and check what I did originally get because I know I didn't pick this, and I was pretty confused. What I had redeemed them for was a blending brush from Luxie Beauty. I got one of those in a previous Ipsy bag, and absolutely love it. When I saw it was available for 500 points, I snagged one. I don't know what happened, but I got a little mad seeing an eyeliner instead of the brush I wanted. I already emailed them about it, and they did say I'll get a replacement, but who knows if it will be the brush I wanted. I've never had this issue before!

Anyway, that's everything in this month's bag! Despite being sent the wrong product for redeeming my points, I'm happy with the products this month. I was on the verge of cancelling honestly, but I'll give it a few more months. If you want to get Ipsy bags for yourself, you can sign up here! It costs $10 a month, plus shipping for some, and you get 4-5 deluxe sized samples of beauty products!

*Ipsy link is a referral code. I get points to redeem for product, if you use my link to sign up!*

September 2015 Ipsy Bag

Hey guys! It's been quite a few days since my last real post, and I'm sorry for that! I actually started up my own YouTube channel (you can see my first video here!), and I'm considering focusing on that maybe a little more than the blog. Maybe. I'm still figuring out exactly what I want to do. Anyways, a couple days ago I received my Ipsy bag for the month, and of course I have to share what products I got. 

The theme this month is Face Fashion. I think the bag everything came in is super cute too! It's actually a bag I can see myself using, and it's a bit wider than previous Ipsy bags. I just like the style of it for some reason. 

The first product I received is the Crown Brush Oval Concealer Brush. I already own a couple brushes from Crown, and they're not awful quality, but they're not great either. I typically use a Beauty Blender for concealer now, so I may save this for putting on eyeshadow bases. 

Next up is the tre'StiQue Mini Matte Lip Crayon in a shade called Nantucket Nude. I feel like this is going to look horrendous on me with my fair skin. It's a shame because swatching it, it feels nice and creamy. I just look bad in nude colors.

Next is the Not Soap, Radio Revitalizing Hand/Body Lotion in the scent The Phoenix. To me, this smells really perfume-y and it makes me sneeze. I haven't tested it out, but I'll probably try it just to see if I have other reactions to it. 

Finally, a product that I'll use, for sure! It's a NYX eyeshadow trio that looks like it was made special for this Ipsy bag, which is pretty neat! The pigmentation isn't that amazing, but I'm sure with a primer it'll be fine. 

Lastly, another darn nail polish *sigh*. I don't know what else to do to get them to stop giving me nail polish! I feel like I get one in every other bag, and I've specifically graded any nail polishes badly in hopes they'll stop sending them. But, it is Formula X, and the shade I got called Ignite is pretty. I just don't wear nail polish regularly, so all the bottles I have are sitting there, probably very sad. 

If you aren't subscribed to Ipsy, you can do so here via my referral link! It only costs $10 a month, plus shipping for some, and you get usually 5 deluxe sized samples of beauty products sent to you every month.

If you're already subscribed, what did you get this month?

August 2015 Ipsy Bag

Hi everyone! I received my Ipsy bag yesterday, and I'm happy for once that it's a bit earlier than previous times. The theme this month is Prep School, since school is starting again soon for alot of people. 

The actual bag is alright. It's got a hounds-tooth pattern, which I'm not a huge fan of. It also feels like it's made of plastic and it has some texture to it as well. 

The first product I received is the Swissco soft Touch Slant Tweezers. Out of all the products they sent out, I got flipping tweezers! The last time I got a Swissco product in an Ipsy bag was December of 2014 and it was an eyelash curler. Didn't need that either. 

The next product is the Starlooks Luxe Longwear Eyeliner Pen. I very rarely wear eyeliner, and if I do, it's usually the Kat Von D Tattoo Liner in Trooper. This eyeliner seems smudgy when I apply it on my hand and rub it after it dries, so I don't have the highest hopes for this. I'll still try it just to see how it works.

Next up we have the Beauty Without Cruelty Leave-in Conditioner. This will definitely be put to use as I haven't done a whole lot with my hair recently, and I can tell it's suffering. I think it smells wonderful too, very herbal scented. I'm a fan of scents like that though, but I can see it being too much for some people. 

Next is the Hikari Lip Gloss in the shade Salsa, which is a classic red. I was hoping I would get the intense red mauve shade called Merlot. I always feel like I can't pull off the classic bright red shades as I need something more cool based for my skintone. I'll give it a go and see if I end up liking it. The only thing that's really turning me off is the scent of this. Right when I take the wand out, the smell of chemicals wafts into my nostrils, and it's not pleasant. 

The last product is the City Color HD Powder. I already have so many powders in my stash, but I'm curious to try this as it promises a matte finish and preventing shine. An oily girl like myself might appreciate something like this, as long as it works!

That's everything I received this month! Overall, I just feel a bit meh about it. I'm not overly excited about anything really, but am curious to try the powder and leave-in conditioner. 

If you want to sign up for Ipsy, you can do so here via my referral link! It only costs $10 a month, plus shipping for some, and you typically get 5 deluxe sized products to try. Occasionally, there will be a full size product too! 

If you're already subscribed, what did you receive this month?

July 2015 Ipsy Bag

Hey guys! It's finally Ipsy time, where I get to show you what I received in my bag this month! The theme is Summer Lovin', and it's currently feeling very Summery and humid here, so the theme definitely fits. Lets see what I got this month!

So the actual bag that everything comes in, it's just alright. I'm not a fan of the color scheme or the design, and I personally don't think it looks Summery. That's alright, it's what's inside that counts, and I'm a bit meh with that as well.

The first product I received is the Nudestix Magnetic Eye Color in the shade Gilt. It's a pretty champagne color that says it's waterproof, easy to blend and long wearing. I've heard of this brand alot lately so I am curious to try this and see how it works. The cool thing is it comes with its own sharpener as it's not a retractable pencil. 

Next up is the Be A Bombshell Lip Balm, and I received the shade called French Kiss, which is a light pink. I'm all for lip balms, I can never get enough really, but this is just a plain ole balm that doesn't have any color payoff or scent whatsoever. I don't really understand why there are different shades. Maybe the other one that was sent out is more pigmented.

Next we have the Aurora Gel Effect Nail Polish in the shade 4 Alarm Fire. I do admit that the shade is very pretty, but I've said it many times before and I'm saying it again: I CAN'T STAND GETTING NAIL POLISH!!! Seriously, I've had so many bottles of nail polish sent to me in Ipsy bags, and I'm so over it. I never really do my nails that often, so most of the polishes I have are just sitting in a drawer, unloved. I've retaken the quiz and reviewed the polishes I've gotten to hopefully have them realize no more polish, but I guess it doesn't work.

Now we have the Vasanti Cosmetics Brighten Up! Exfoliating Cleanser. I was acutally pretty excited to get this in my bag, but when I picked it up, it's basically empty! I can probably try and get maybe 2 small uses at most out of this, but I'm incredibly disappointed that there is hardly any product in the container. 

The last product is the Coolway Beachy Salt Spray. I also don't really like getting hair sprays in my Ipsy bags either and I wish they would stop sending them. I'm fine with getting shampoo or conditioner products, as I will always use them, but anything that's a hair spray, texturizing spray, or anything that gives hair that crunchy feeling, forget it. I'll never use it! 

Overall, I am pretty disappointed this month. Now I could just be angry because of my pregnancy hormones, but I won't get use out of the majority of this bag. Normally Ipsy is pretty great and if I have a disappointing bag, the next month is usually better. 

If you're not subscribed to Ipsy and you would like to be, you can do so here via my referral link! It only costs $10 a month, plus shipping for some, and you typically get 4-5 deluxe sized products along with a makeup bag. Occasionally they will send full sized products, which is a nice treat!

If you're already subscribed to Ipsy, what did you get in your bag? Are you happy with the products this month?

June 2015 Ipsy Bag

Hi guys! I finally have received my Ipsy bag this month, after realizing how late it was getting. At first I wasn't really paying attention because alot is going on at the moment, but then others were posting what they got in their bags. I received mine yesterday, which is fairly late for me, but at least it didn't get lost in transit! Anyways, lets see what I got this month, as I have mixed feelings about it.

The theme this month is called Swim into Beauty, so to me that means these products will be waterproof/good for Summertime use when everyone sweats more. I really actually like the bag everything came in. It's really soft and has a waterproof feel to it. It's got a bright neon orange zipper, which I could do without since I'm not the biggest fan of orange. I see myself carrying this around with me if I ever go swimming or for travel. 

The first product I got is a trio of BioRepublic Skincare Sheet Masks in the scents Green Tea Detox, Cucumber Breeze, and Aloe Rescue. I haven't had luck with sheet masks in the past, but I will try these and see how they are. I'm trying to revamp my skincare and be more aware of the ingredients in products I'm using, and these seem to pass my test. 

The next product is the Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer. I've gotten a ton of these samples before, and I can't quite remember if I ever got one in an Ipsy bag. Ipsy promises to give you new products with each bag without any repeats, but if this one is a repeat for me, it's ok because I can always use a good primer. 

Next up is the J. Cat beauty Liptitude Hydrating Lip Stain, and I have no idea what the shade name is because the two colors they sent out look so similar, and the name is nowhere on the packaging. In any case, it's a pretty color and smells minty, which I do enjoy. 

The next product is the Ofra Eyeliner in the shade Turquoise. This is a pretty color but when I was swatching it, it felt pretty dry so I'm not sure if I will get use out of it. 

The last product I got is the tre'StiQue Mini Shadow Crayon in the shade Kona Coffee. This is a gorgeous dark brown color and it swatches beautifully. I'm pretty excited to use this as a base underneath different eyeshadows. 

Swatches of lip stain, eyeliner and eyeshadow crayon

That's everything this month! Overall, I do have mixed feeling about this bag. I like the eye crayon, lip stain shade, and the Smashbox primer, but I'm waiting for that one bag where I absolutely love everything!

If you want to subscribe to Ipsy, feel free to use my referral link here. You get a cute bag with 4-5 deluxe sized samples, sometimes full size, for only $10 a month, plus shipping for some.

If you're already subscribed, what did you get this month?

Review: MicaBeauty Eye Primer

Hey everyone! Today I'm going to be reviewing the Mica Beauty Eye Primer that I received in a previous Ipsy bag. I love eyeshadow primers, so I was pretty excited to try it!

Taken from the Mica beauty website:

Use MicaBeauty Eye Primer to seal in Eye Shadows and Foundation, enhancing your all-day look. Go from shimmer to matte in just seconds. This waterproof formula provides the perfect foundation for a long lasting, smudge proof look that is designed for your active lifestyle. MicaBeauty Eye Primer helps even out skin tone as well as extends and intensifies your mineral eye shadows, without creasing, smearing, or fading.

Now even though the description says it's to be used with mineral shadows, I figured it would just be like any other primer/base that can be used with any eyeshadow. The product feels nice to the touch, it's soft and a bit creamy, but once applied to the lid, it feels very dry and goes on a bit patchy for me. I do like that it's a skin-tone shade, so it does help with any discoloration or redness on the lids. I do notice I have to set this with a powder first before I apply any shadows or my brush will stick to one spot. I notice my shadows look more vibrant while applying them to my lids, but that's really where it ends for me. This did absolutely nothing in terms of making my shadows last. I had creasing within just a couple hours. I tried using less of this product, applying it with a brush instead of fingers, everything I could. The only way that I can seem to get this to work is if I apply a Maybelline Color Tattoo over the top of this, then my shadow lasts all day. However, that just isn't very practical for if I'm in a rush. 

I couldn't believe the price tag of this product, a whopping $44.95 for 8 grams of product. This pot is 4 grams so that's about $22.50. There is no way I would EVER pay that much for a primer/base, especially since it doesn't work for me. $45?! Come on, that's just ridiculous! There are much better primers out there for alot less money. 

Have you tried this product before?

May 2015 Ipsy Bag

Hello everyone! I received my Ipsy bag in the mail yesterday, which for me seems late. I usually get them pretty early and have it in my mailbox before I get the tracking code email. This time was different, but I'm actually happy with what I got, so that makes up for it!

The theme this month is called Jetsetter, so I guess it's based off travel-friendly products. I'm not a big travel person, but I will probably get use out of everything here. I think the bag is adorable this month! Ipsy sent out different designs on this canvas style bag, and mine says, VIP: Very Important Products. So cute, and I will most likely use this if I ever go anywhere, or just keep it in my purse. 

The first product I got is the Chella Eyebrow Color Pencil in the color Tantalizing Taupe. The color seems a little bit dark, but I think I can work with it. I don't typically use brow pencils, just clear gel to keep them in place, but I will give this a go and see if I like it. 

Next up is the Luxie Beauty Tapered Blending Eye Brush 205. I can never get enough of blending brushes, and this one feels so stinking soft! I can't wait to wash this and see if it's good. 

The Tarte Amazonian Clay Double Detox Facial Mask was a product I redeemed my points for. For such a tiny container, this cost me 500 points. I will probably only get 1 use out of this, so it better be a miracle worker for my skin!

Next is The Organic Pharmacy Double Rose Rejuvenating Face Cream. You all know I'm a skincare freak, so I can always use a good moisturizer. It says it's for all skin types but with it having shea butter and jojoba oil, it may be greasy for my oily skin. I will use it for sure, but probably only at night. 

The Not Your Mother's De Ja Vu 'Do Style Extender didn't seem that interesting at first. However, it comes in a red apple and berry scent, which is heavenly and I think I can just use it as a leave-in conditioner. It says it's supposed to block humidity and repel dirt and oil, so I'm definitely intrigued to see if it actually does that. 

The last product I received is the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide On Lip Pencil with 2 bonus samples of the Revolution High-Color Lipgloss. I love Urban Decay as a brand, but never really got into lining my lips. I'm definitely curious to try it out and I'm a lipgloss girl, so the little bonus samples were a nice surprise. 

Overall, I'm incredibly happy with this month's bag, even when I thought I wouldn't be. I can't wait to try everything and see what next month's bag will be like! If you're not subscribed to Ipsy, you can do so here with my referral link. You get 4-5 deluxe sized samples, with the occasional full-sized product, for only $10 a month plus shipping for some. Like I said, I'm surprisingly really happy with what I got, and I think Ipsy is just great. There are some months that are meh, but they typically make up for it at some point! 

If you're already subscribed to Ipsy, what did you get in your bag?

April 2015 Ipsy Bag

Hey everyone! I'm really excited that my Ipsy bag came in the mail yesterday, and I hadn't even gotten a tracking code. Weird, but that's happened before! This month's theme is called Beautifully Bohemian, and I'm excited for this one.

I love the style of the bag this month! It reminds me of a thin weaved basket, which probably sounds strange. I love the strips of color added and I can definitely see myself using this bag in everyday life. Onto the products!

First up, we have the MicaBeauty Eye Primer. I'm always on the hunt for a good eyeshadow primer, and this one says it's waterproof so hopefully it's good for Summertime use.

Next, I got a theBalm Nude Dude Eyeshadow Single in the shade Flirty, which is described as a shimmering golden violet color. I'm a fan of the brand, but it's not my favorite. I'm an eyeshadow junkie though, so I will have use for this I'm sure. 

I'm actually really excited for this next product. It's a blush by the brand Hikari in the shade Tango. It's a beautiful peachy pink shade and I'm pretty sure this is a full size product. In that case, this by itself costs $15, which is pretty darn cool!

I've heard of Klorane products before but never tried them. When I saw I was going to be receiving their Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk, I was really excited! I love dry shampoos since I don't wash my hair everyday. I'm hoping I can get decent use out of this can because it doesn't feel like it's filled very much. 

The last product I received is a JulieG Nail Color in the shade Damsel. I don't really like getting nail polish in subscription bags, but this color is right up my alley. Since Spring is finally here, I've been in the mood to do something with my nails, and this bright pink color seems perfect. 

Overall, I'm really happy with my bag this month. I feel like I got a nice range of products and they will all get used at some point. 

If you want your own Ipsy bag, you can sign up here! It only costs $10 a month, plus shipping for some, and you get 4-5 deluxe sized sample products with an occasional full sized one, like the blush above!

If you already receive Ipsy bags, what did you get this month?

March 2015 Ipsy Bag

Hello everyone! I got home late last night from work and my wonderful husband had my Ipsy bag package waiting for me on my side of the sofa (he's adorable like that). I did open the bag, but it was late, and I was pooped, so I didn't get a good look at the products until this morning. 

The theme this month is called Floral Fantasy, and I quite like the bag the products came in. it's very Spring-y and has a vinyl feel to it. 

The first product I received is the Boo-Boo Coverup Concealer in the medium shade. I'm all for trying out new concealers, but this shade is just too dark for me. I may be able to mix it with something else, but I don't really want to have to do that. I'll still give it a go sometime and see if I can make it work. 

The next product is the Dr. Brandt Pores No More Anti-Aging Mattifying Lotion. You all know I love my skincare and always want to try new things. I'm definitely excited to try this out closer to Summer, but as I'm writing this, I'm noticing the bottle I have barely has any product in it! I held it up to the window and it's not even half full, only about 1/3. The product is sealed so I can't blame that on leaking, but it's disappointing that I won't get as much use out of this like I was expecting. 

We have another skincare product from Pur-Lisse Beauty and it's the Pur-Delicate Gentle Soymilk Cleanser & Makeup Remover. I will definitely get use out of this, but only at night since my skin will start to get more oily as it warms up outside. This product is filled up all the way ;)

Next up is the NYX Butter Lipstick in the shade Hunk. I love NYX and I already have a couple of these butter lipsticks, but this is just so dark! It's not a very Spring-like color, but it also might not work for my skintone. We will see. I was hoping for the pink shade they were also sending out.

The last product I received is the Vintage by Jessica Liebeskind Illuminating Face Highlighter. I'm not the biggest face highlighter person (I glow enough usually), so I will probably just use this as an eyeshadow. It's a beautiful pink shade that I think will look nice. 

Overall, I'm happy this month! I wish the Dr. Brandt product was filled up but I can still use it. For just $10 a month, plus shipping for some, these bags are awesome. If you want to sign up, you can do so here with my referral link!

If you already get Ipsy bags, what did you receive this month?

February 2015 Ipsy Bag

Hey everyone! I know it's been a week since I posted, and I'm so sorry for that! I have the flu and it's really been kicking my butt. Today I'm finally feeling a little better, and I just got my Ipsy bag in the mail so I thought I'd show you what I got! I have to say, I was really excited for this months bag, but one of the products exploded damaging the bag. Luckily I can save the other products, but I did contact IpsyCare already, so hopefully they send out a replacement. 

I think the design of the bag is actually pretty cute this month! Pink is my favorite color, and I love it paired with the grey. The back of the bag is solid pink, and that is what got damaged from the exploded product, which you'll see in a moment!

The first product is the Cargo Cosmetics Mini Lip Gloss and I got the shade Anguilla, which is a pretty dusty pink color. Unfortunately I can't smell it right now because I'm so congested, but I like the color so I'll give it a try. 

Next up we have the Pencil Me In Cosmetics Natural Eyeliner Pencil in the color Amethyst. The lid has a built in sharpener which I'm not too fond of, but I do love purple. I'm hoping this is a nice pencil and doesn't drag on my lids. 

We have the ModelCo BLUSH Cheek Powder in the shade Peach Bellini. I kinda wish I got the other color they sent out called Cosmopolitan since that one is a pink. I can still work with this though so I won't complain too much. 

This Eva NYC Up All Night Volumizing Spray is the bugger that exploded and damaged the bag. Like I said above, I did contact IpsyCare, and they're usually pretty good when something like this happens. I just hope they don't send out another one of these. I'm not big into hair products.

The last product we have is the Hey Honey Take it Off! Exfoliating Honey Peel Off Mask. I'm kinda obsessed with masks and once I start to feel better, I'm gonna have to make up for not taking care of my skin this whole week. Honestly, it took all my strength to even get out of bed to brush my teeth, so I haven't done anything with my skin. Sad, I know. I'm paying the price now, but I'm hoping it bounces back quick!

That's what I got! If I hadn't had the exploding product in my bag, I would've been over the moon with everything. I probably would've tried the hair product too just to see if I liked it. It's alright though, I know things will be taken care of! If you want to sign up for Ipsy, you can click my referral link here to do so! It's only $10 a month, plus shipping for some, and you get 4-5 deluxe size samples in a makeup bag.

If you're already subscribed, what did you get this month?

January 2015 Ipsy Bag

Hello everyone! I know this post is overdue, as I received my Ipsy bag sometime last week. I just didn't get a chance to write it up, so forgive me! Anyways, this is the first Ipsy bag of the year and the theme this month is called Fresh Start. 

The bag everything comes in feels like plastic/vinyl and one side is white, while the other side is blue, and it has a orange zipper. It's kinda cute, but I don't really see myself using it honestly. 

I was so excited for the products this month! The first product I got is the BellaPierre Shimmer Powder in the color Whesek, which looks like a dark gray/black color with a hint of dark blue. Looking at the description of the product, depending on the color you get, these can be used as an eyeshadow or highlighter. I obviously can only use this as an eyeshadow, but it's so dark and I don't know if it will look good with my fair skin. I'll give it a try since I am a fan of mineral products. 

The next product I have is the Jouer Essential Lip Enhancer. I have tried this product before that I got in an old Birchbox, and I absolutely loved it! It made my lips look and feel so hydrated and plump. This tube I have now is about twice the size of the one I had before, which makes me really happy. I have strongly considered purchasing a full size of this, but I already have a ton of lip balms and treatments to use up. 

Next up, we have the Pacifica Natural Mineral Coconut Eyeshadow in the shade Ethereal. I have already tried this, and it's not bad, but it's not fantastic either. The pigment is alright, but the staying power isn't that great, even with a primer. A gripe I have with this product is that the container was stuck inside the box so bad, and there's still glue in the back that's been a pain to remove, and it sticks to everything. I'll probably continue using this as a highlight shade, but Pacifica makeup is not very good. Their body products are really nice though!

The next product I received is the La Fresh Eco-Beauty Good Day. Day Moisturizer. I love me some good skincare, so I'm looking forward to trying this out. Even though this comes in a glorified foil packet, it seems like there's a decent amount of product to try. I'm also reading that this stuff smells bad, but I honestly can't tell because my nose is stuffed up right now. 

The last product I got is the Elizabeth Mott All Over Shadow Brush. I also love me some good brushes, so I was happy to have received this! I used this as well already, and I do like it. It deposits color nicely on the lids, it's soft, it's easy to clean, and it's a good size too. Plus, it's pink! Who can resist an adorable pink brush?!

That's everything I got! If you want to sign up for Ipsy, you can do so here! It only costs $10 a month, plush shipping for some and you get 4-5 samples. I am definitely impressed this month, but some months are a miss for me. I highly recommend this bag if you want to try out new brands for a good price!

If you're already signed up to Ipsy, what did you get in your bag?