Update (even though I've been posting)

Hello everyone,

I'd just like to give you an update of where I am and what I want to do with this blog.
Obviously, I started this blog to share my nails. I honestly don't do my nails that often anymore (though I wish to start painting them more regularly) but I do use beauty products every single day. I'm sure you're all tired of the Influenster posts, but that program really did give me the kick in the pants I needed. I want to share my opinions on the new/interesting products I am using with you! I figured that will be easier for me since even when I don't have the time to do my nails, I still use shampoo/lotion/cleanser etc. I also like writing, and there isn't much I can write about manicures, really, especially since I usually only do a one-color mani.

So look out for more reviews of non-Influenster stuff. If you have any requests for reviews, leave them in the comments/email me and I will take your requests into account when I am deciding on new products to try. I can't guarantee I will do the reviews you request-I have budget and time constraints, but I'm always up to try something new.

Hope everyone is having an excellent holiday season! Let me know what you're feeling!

<3 TrojanNails

Review: imPRESS Press-On Manicure

I received the imPRESS Press-On Manicure in Tweetheart to try in my Holiday VoxBox from Influenster. I have never been a fake-nails kind of gal. No matter what I do, I just don't really like wearing fake nails. imPRESS didn't change my mind, but it definitely opened me up a bit. The last time I wore "drugstore" nails was probably middle school, so a lot has changed since then, but not enough to sway me. I'm just rough on my hands and artificial nails are not my friends when it comes to taking out contacts.
The first thing I liked about the imPRESS manicure was the packaging! The nails came in a little plastic nail polish bottle! The bad thing about this, though, is there is no logical way to size them. You just have to guess and try each to your finger. If they had been in any sort of order, the process would have been a lot easier, especially when it came time to find nails for the second hand. There are 12 sizes of nails, though, so you should be able to find one that fits your nail. If not, you can also clip and file them to perfection. It doesn't say that on the package, but the entire nail is colored, not just the outer layer, so there should be no problem. imPRESS also includes a "prep pad" to clean any oils off of your nail that might prevent good adhesion.

 Even though I had clean, dry hands and I used the prep pad, my index finger popped off in less than twelve hours (the thumb was taken off intentionally so I could take out my contacts without scratching my eye). The other nails weren't budging. I might have had lotion or something on that one finger, and it was a little more wiggly than the rest from the beginning, so I don't think it is the product's fault. The other nails look amazing from more than 6 inches away. They definitely do not look like my "natural" nails to me, because I'm me, and, well, I spend a lot of time looking at my natural nails. They do not scream "DRUGSTORE PRESS ON NAILS!" either, and actually look quite nice from the normal distance people are looking at your nails. My boyfriend said "people can't tell," which is saying something.
Removing them (which I decided to the day after I applied them) proved to me that the nails were not going to go anywhere. The adhesive is very thick and strong (as well as easy to apply-just peel the tab off of the nail and press!), so I don't expect that the nails would have popped off without just cause.
Two things that really bothered me were that you could see my nail from underneath, which looked weird to me, and the fact that the nails didn't perfectly cover my own.

 As you can see, the imPRESS nails weren't wide enough to cover my whole nail. There were bigger sizes, but the next size up was TOO big and pinched my skin. The thickness of the adhesive also made it look like the artificial nails were popping off-which they weren't.

You can see here the weirdness of my nail under the imPRESS nail. It doesn't look so bad in the picture, but it looked really strange to me.

Final words: imPRESS Press-On Manicures aren't going to change your mind if you don't like artificial nails, but really, nothing will. If you do like press on nails, these are an excellent option, as there are tons of styles (including more nail art-y ones) and they have quite strong adhesive. If you are in doubt about whether to try these or not, go for it. They are relatively inexpensive (from what I've seen, anywhere from 6-8 dollars) and are a pretty nice alternative to a salon manicure.

These are availible at drugstores and WalMart. For more information and a coupon (!!!) go to the imPRESS site.
P.S. Thank you to my wonderful boyfriend who took the pictures featured in this blogpost!

Disclosure: I received these free of charge in my Holiday VoxBox from Influenster, but my opinions are my own.

Review: Montagne Jeunesse Strawberry Souffle Mask

I received this mask as a part of Influenster's VoxBox program. It is a good way to test new things without breaking the bank.
This mask suprised me. As I said in the VoxBox opening post, I have bought these quite a lot as gifts, but I have never actually used one myself. I usually prefer peel off masks, but I would definitely consider buying this mask again. The scent was amazing-it really did smell like strawberry and whipped cream, like it says at the bottom of the package. While I didn't notice any long lasting effects after using this mask, it is an excellent "spa" mask, as it smells delicious and feels nice and smooth as you apply the product.

PROS

• inexplensive-these are usually 2 for $3 at Walgreen's. 
• More natural than some other masks in the same price range
• Vegetarian-as it says on the back of the package "we're vegetarian and animals are our friends-that's why we don't bash bunnies or add bits of animals!"
• delicious scent
• no acne medication
• Ingredients listing is very clear and explanatory

CONS

• packets are enough for more than one use, but not enough for two. 
• some varities hard to find in store-for example, I have NEVER seen Strawberry Souffle around me.
• The official site doesn't ship to USA

You can get more information on this mask and other varities on Montagne Jeunesse's website, and you can purchase these at WalMart, drugstores and online.

Disclaimer: I received this complimentary trial size from Influenster in a Holiday VoxBox. My opinions are not affected by this at all.

Review: X Out Wash-in Treatment

Picture from Influenster site

I received XOut in my Holiday VoxBox from Influenster. The picture above is a stock image from the Influenster website, but it is the same size/packaging as I received (I don't have my camera with me, unfortunately.) XOut is an "all in one" product from the same people that make Proactiv.
Initially I was less than excited to try this, as the 8.5% benzoyl peroxide sounded a bit harsh, especially as a mask. I bit the bullet and started using it twice a day, though, and I am glad I did. The texture is nice and thick, and has sugar-sized grains in it. It smells like clean...I don't really know how to describe. The scent is pleasant and subtle, and it shouldn't bother too many people, especially since it does not linger past rinsing. I have used this only as a cleanser, because I do not have zits, and even if I did, I do not wish to use a spot treatment that you have to take off before putting on makeup, etc.
My skin definitely feels softer and smoother after using this for about a week. I also noticed that I had a lot less redness in my cheeks. I caught myself in the mirror a few times (sans makeup) and couldn't believe that was my real skin. I am definitely pleased with this, although with the $30 (although there is a special going on now at the XOut site for $19.95/30day or $39.95/60 day) for a 30 day supply is a little expensive for my wallet, especially since my $5 Clean and Clear $6 Bioré have lasted me about 90 days and still aren't empty.

PROS

• 3 in 1 product: cleanser, mask, spot treatment
• "Scrubby" texture allows it to be a scrub and cleanser and one
• Mild tingly feeling while using
• One pump is enough for me to wash my face
• Packaging is super cute and will stand up in the shower
• Rinses cleanly
• Protective cap really clicks onto the bottle, making spills/accidental dispensing less likely

CONS

• Pump is hard to press, especially in the shower
• Scrubby texture can be a bit rough if you apply without thinking
• Benzoyl peroxide content might irritate more sensitive skin
• Must be washed off when used as a spot treatment
• Not as widely available as drugstore/department store products

You can buy XOut on the XOut website in 30 day or 60 day bottles, which are currently on sale. I recommend starting with the 30 day, since it is the same per day cost as the 60 day.

Disclaimer: I did receive this product from Influenster's VoxBox program for free. The opinions in this post are my own.

Holiday VoxBox opening!

I got my Holiday VoxBox today!!!! I will list the included products, what it said on the little Influenster info card, and my first thoughts about the item.
X Out Wash-In Treatment (a bonus product "based on badges and demographics")
From the Card: "The makers of Proactiv, America's number one acne system, announce the launch of a unique one-step Wash-in Treatment that washes powerful breakout fighting medicine into pores to help kill bacteria that causes pimples and treat existing ones while moisturizing to protect the skin. With no parabens or sulfates, this product is suitable for all skin types."
My First thoughts: At first I was really confused by the "Wash-in" thing...but as soon as I read the product info I understood. It's a wash, mask and spot treatment in one. While I don't have very much acne at all really, I am excited to see if this helps what I do have.

Montagne Jeunesse Face Mask in Strawberry Souffle
From the card: "Montagnue [sic] Jeunesse's face masks are jam packed with the most delicious natural ingredients and are bursting with luscious juicy fragrances. Influensters will receive one of the following flavors: Strawberry Souffle, Cucumber Peel Off, Passion Peel Off, Dead  Sea Mud, Fruit Smoothie."
My first thoughts: I always see these in stores and despite buying several as gifts over the years, I have never used one before. I just finished up finals so I will be using these in a "spa day" soon.

Softsoap Coconut Scrub bar soap
From the card: Renew your skin with NEW Softsoap® Coconut Scrub bar soap. Enriched with crushed coconut extract, this bar soap gently exfoliates to renew your skin's surface, while helping retain natural moisture for soft, supple skin. Also comes in two other exotic fragrances: Juice Pomegranate & Mango Infusions and Sweet Honeysuckle & Orange Peel."
My first thoughts: I am normally a body wash kind of girl, but I have been considering trying a bar soap for a while, since my boyfriend uses the white Dove bars and smells amazing. I find it really interesting that it is a scrub bar, not just a normal smooth soap. Luckily I'm almost done with the body wash I have now and can use one of these within a week.


Mentos Pure Fresh Gum
From the card: We're sure you know Mentos, but did you know they have a sugarfree gum? Whether it's before a holiday party, date or meeting, pop Mentos Pure Fresh Gum for a quick refresh! The crunchy outer shell conceals a green tea extract core that provides an immediate burst of coolness for long-lasting fresh breah. Its unique container keeps gum protected in your purse!
My first thoughts: I may or may not be chewing a piece right now...it is pretty darn good!!! I love the crunchy outer shell!


LARABAR in Coconut Cream
From the card: Made from only 2-9 ingredients, each LÄRABAR is a delicious blend of just fruits, nuts and spices. Pure and simple, just as nature intended. Larabar comes in 19 delicious flavors!"
My first thoughts: I am constantly on the lookout for yummy and good for me snack bars, as some days I have class for three to five hours straight. This definitely seems like it fits the bill.


New York Color Liquid Lip Shine in Nude York City
From the card: "Straight from the city that never sleeps, New York Color's Liquid Lipshine is uptown style at a down-to-earth price. With pure pigments that create a 3-D gloss effect  and vitamin E that provides shine and moisture, this product is perfect to keep lips looking and feeling fabulous this season. Comes in 10 shades from neutral nude, to berries & fuchsias."
My first thoughts: NYC has a soft spot in my heart. I remember their roll-on clear glosses from when I was in elementary school! I'm also starting to get back into make up after the last weeks of my semester, so this grown-up gloss is perfect!


imPRESS Press-on Manicure by Broadway Nails in 240 Tweetheart
From the card:Introducing imPRESS, the revolutionary way to apply nail polish! Featuring advanced technology, you will get a salon-perfect manicure in seconds - simply peel off, press on and you're done (no drying time!). imPress comes in 36 colors and patterns, including trendy brights, fun prints, classic darks and animal prints.
My first thoughts: I haven't thought about press-on nails since about 7th grade! While I would have preferred a pattern that I couldn't do on my own (instead of the plain, but pretty, red), I am interested to see how much press-ons have improved in the seven years since I used them last.


There was also a coupon for LÄRABARs and imPress nails.


I am seriously so excited to be able to try all this stuff. It was the perfect surprise on the last day of the semester :)


More detailed reviews are to come as I use products.




Disclaimer: While I did receive these products free of charge, my opinion of them is my own.

Influenster

So I signed up for the Influenster VoxBox program a couple months ago, thinking I would never get a box. I didn't expect one because my blogging is inconsistent and I don't have that many followers. About a week ago, though, I got an email saying I was "pre-selected" for the Holiday VoxBox, so I promptly RSVP'd. Then, about five minutes ago, I got an email saying my box is shipping on December 7th! I'm very excited to share whatever is in that box with you guys!

I don't really know much about Influenster, but it is completely free. They'll send you boxes of (apparently) full-size products for you to try/review if you qualify. If you want to sign up you can do so on their site.

November Empties!

Hey everyone! I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving and are ready for finals! I know I am not ready at all and am very nervous about the coming weeks!

 Burt's Bees Facial Cleansing Towelettes These were okay. They weren't textured, so sometimes I felt like I was just rubbing a cold cloth on my face, smearing the makeup and not actually getting any of the it off. They were alright, though, so if they were on sale for a really great price, I might buy them again.
Secret Scent Expressions Cherry Mischief This deodorant was surprisingly cherry-like. It was more of the candy cherry, not real cherry, but I expected that. The scent lasted all day, but it wasn't strong enough to bother me/overwhelm any perfume I happened to be wearing. This kept my armpits dry for the most part and when they did get a bit moist, it smelled like cherries. I'm still not sure if I liked my armpits smelling like fruit, but it was preferable over BO. Because the gel was alcohol based, it did sting just a bit if I applied to freshly shaven armpits, but not nearly as bad as the gel deodorant I had in high school. I would definitely purchase this again.
The Body Shop Sweet Lemon Body Scrub This smelled really delicate. It wasn't the sour lemon or Pine-Sol lemon, but a light, fresh, one might say sweet lemon. It did a pretty good job of keeping my feet soft, but the shea butter scrub I used last month was a bit more moisturizing. I would repurchase though, especially in the summer when the weather matches the scent a bit better.
Clean&Clear Morning Burst Oil Absorbing Sheets I have had these for at least 4 years, and I haven't seen this particular variety in stores for quite a while (I've only seen the plain blue-packaged ones), so I'm not even sure if these are available anymore. I really like these blotting sheets though, because the core is a plasticy and not paper, and therefore harder to rip. When I first got them, they had a nice scent (a citrus-y one, I believe, that matched the Shine Control Morning Burst Cleanser), but over the course of four years, they lost their scent. I would definitely repurchase these, as I prefer them over the Earth Therapeutics and the Boscia ones I had/have, plus they are cheaper and come in a slimmer package.
Benefit The POREfessional This was an okay primer. It is a little less "slippery" than Smashbox Photo Finish, which I like because it didn't make it feel like my makeup was just sliding all over my face all day. I didn't really see anything different about my pores, but I don't really have a problem with my pores so I can't say that I looked very hard. I like Too Faced's Primed and Poreless a little more because, in my opinion, the packaging is easier to control, but the product itself is about the same.
Aquolina Pink Sugar sample I love the way this smells. It is very sweet and candy like, and in some ways not a very mature perfume. I wouldn't wear this to a professional setting because it reminds me too much of cotton candy, and cotton candy makes me too giggly, but otherwise I would wear this every day. Too bad it was only a sample.
Yankee Candle Sweet Strawberry As a disclaimer, this candle had gotten all melty/messed up in the mail, as my boyfriend sent this and a vanilla candle to me in the middle of July. That may have had some effect on the smell/burning tendencies. The scent was not as light and sweet as I would have liked, but it was still quite nice. The jar annoyed me, because it is narrower at the top and you can't use a match to light after it gets about a quarter of the way down. It was also very bubbly from what being melted in the summer sun. I'm very happy to say that there was barely any wax left in it when it burned itself out though, much less than the mini candles from Bath and Body Works (which they no longer sell). I want to try a non-melted one before I decide which candle brand is better, though, since my BBW ones are they way they are supposed to be and not all melted all over.

 Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel When I first got this, I loved it soooooo much. It was one of my first higher-end beauty items, and for a while it was exactly what my skin needed. Recently, though, it hasn't been enough for my skin, so I'm glad I finally finished it. As you can see in the picture, it did not end well. I got to the point where the pump wasn't pumping anymore, and there was still half an inch of gel in that container! I had never really thought about how thick that plastic was until I tried to get it open and realized my scissors were not going to do the trick. It took my boyfriend, a knife and 20 minutes to get that baby open. It was not fun.

 BBW Pomegranate Citrus Facial Scrub I don't know what the hell I was thinking when I bought this (on clearance, no less) for $5. I had assumed it would be about the size of the Olay scrub I had previously, but of course it wasn't because hello, it's BBW. It wasn't that fantastic of a scrub and I'm pretty sure it contributed to a few blemishes that wouldn't have been there otherwise. I much prefer the scrub I have now from Olay and will stay away from Bath and Body Works brand scrubs in the future.
Partylite Hocus Pocus tea candles x6 I love love love these candles. They burn cleanly and have a pretty amazing throw. They also burn themselves out when only about a drop of wax left in them. I definitely recommend these candles, they are my favorite so far.
L'Occitane Smoothing Gloss sample I had assumed this would be a liquidy product, but it was quite squishy. It smelled a little funny to me, and it just made my hair tangle really easily. I can definitely see how this would be good for shorter hair, but as my shoulder-length hair continues to grow the tangling would annoy the crap out of me.
BBW Bat Bite Apple PocketBac yup. I really don't like the apple scented sanitizer. I'm glad I'm chipping away at my collection, especially since I just rediscovered HandiBacs.
Nivea Touch of Happiness Body Wash This took forever to get through, and although I really like the scent, but it wasn't the most moisturizing thing ever. I really wish I hadn't bought a ton of body washes/soaps/shower creams so I could just buy the Olay Quench I reallllllllly like. Or the Body Shop kind.

BBW Japanese Cherry Blossom Triple Moisture Cream I really wish I had known about TMC a long time ago. It works SOOO much better than BBW's regular lotion and it comes in a tube I can easily cut open and scrape out. It is more moisturizing than the normal lotion and just a little bit thinner, consistency-wise, than body butter. I will definitely repurchase next time they have their Hello Yellow sale.
Herbal Essences None of Your Frizziness Leave-in Conditioner I love this stuff. It kept my hair from fluffing up when it air dries (which is every day...) and it smelled quite nice. I would repurchase if I didn't have a million other hair products.
Partylite Halloween Night tealights x6 Same as above. I love these!
Prada perfume I don't know what it is, but this smells like rich old lady to me. I can't identify what the particular note is, but it is in this perfume and I don't like smelling like rich person :(
also, I know there are two perfume samples in this picture, but I'm not sure what the other one was...

 Bath and Body Works Wild Honeysuckle Triple Moisture As you know, I love this way more than the normal BBW lotion. This particular scent is online only, and I ordered the body wash, triple moisture cream and body spray because I just couldn't resist the honeysuckle scent!!! It wasn't as good as actual honeysuckle, but it is pretty close.

Pantene Breakage to Strength Conditioner This is really good. Like, really, really good. It smells great and smells like shampoo :) It makes my hair super soft and shiny. I will be repurchasing when I need conditioner.
Satin Care Sensitive Skin shaving gel Meh. It's whatever. I much prefer the Target version of Skintimate, so I won't be repurchasing.
Secret Soothing Effects-Invigorating Rain This didn't help the wetness, so I just put this on before bed to condition my skin for shaving. I wouldn't repurchase.
BBW PocketBac Rockin' Cotton Smells okay.
BBW Coconut Passionfruit Body Wash This smelled like summer but the scent doesn't stay, which I expected.

Not pictured:
Bath and Body Works Warm Vanilla Sugar body spray om nom nom. I love this scent! It is also one of my boyfriend's favorites, so I will be repurchasing as soon as I work through what I already have.
Yankee Candle Vanilla Satin candle Yup. It was melty like the strawberry one. I still want to try a non-destroyed Yankee Candle.
Neutrogena Acne Stress Control Triple Action Toner This didn't work any better or any worse than any other toner I've used. It also might have had a part in making my skin SUPER red some days. I prefer the smell of the Olay or Biore ones, though, so I don't think I'll be repurchasing this one.

Why you should always cut open lotion.

 This is the standard tube for the Triple Moisture Body Cream from Bath and Body Works. It is about 1000x better than their standard body lotion. I got this in Massachusetts during their Hello Yellow Sale in July. It cost me about three dollars! I finally "used it all up" the last week, but the plastic is so hard I couldn't squeeze it to get the last bits out. So, not wanting to waste perfectly awesome body cream, I took my scissors to the tube.

This is what I scraped out. That's an old Body Shop body butter tub. I filled it at least 1/4 of the way, and the lotion in there lasted me at least five more days. Imagine all of the lotion I have been throwing away by not doing this! It is a shame that it isn't easier to cut open other packages...I'm looking at you, Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel.

Just wanted to let you guys know how much is hidden in "empty" packages sometimes!

October Empties!

B&BW Coconut Passionfruit Lotion: I love the scent of this. For the first few days I wore it, I kept smelling that wonderful coconut/summer smell of sunscreen and I could not for the life of me figure out what it was...then I realized it was this lotion. The scent lasts a while, too. It isn't overpowering, but it is very nice.
Pangea Organics Nigerian Ginger Facial Lotion: This, like the Pangea Organics cleanser I used up last month, made my face super red for a while after using it. It also made my face oiler than normal. Would not repurchase.
Slatkin&Co. Energy Orange Ginger Mini Candle This smelled good to me but according to my male housemate, it "smells weird." I wouldn't repurchase this scent.
Smacker Dr. Pepper Lip Balm Typical Smackers product. Smelled awesome. Would not repurchase because it didn't moisturize like I like/need.
B&BW Unscented PocketBac Yup...Finished another one of these babies.
212 Perfume sample I actually finished this last month, but the little vial got lost under some towels. It smelled pretty good, but I wouldn't repurchase.
Olay Cream Scrub This didn't really do anything for me. I like my scrubs to be gritty, and this one wasn't. Will not repurchase.

The Body Shop Strawberry Body Butter This smelled delicious, very much like real strawberries. It didn't sting when I put it on freshly shaved legs, and it kept my legs soft all day. Also, the labels peel off cleanly, which is great if you want to wash and reuse the container for something else.
WEI Tibetan Chysanthemum Correcting Eye Treatment Pads: These felt nice when applied and didn't sting when it got in my eye, but I didn't notice any effects past just feeling nice. Would not repurchase.
L'Occitane Precious Cream (sample packet) This was a very nice moisturizer. Non-greasy and didn't make my skin oily but left it soft and smooth. I would buy this again if I weren't so cheap...
Versus Versace fragrance sample This smelled very much like "rich person" to me. Classy, but a little too intense sometimes.
Satin Care Sensitive Skin Shave Gel This worked pretty well, but the pump towards the end annoyed me. It isn't empty, but it takes longer and longer and longer to get the correct amount out of the container. My mom got me a multipack of this, so I have three more, but I will not be repurchasing if it slows down like that on the others.
ELF Shine Eraser These absorbed some oil, but I also had problems taking only one sheet out, instead of 2 or 3. They also tore easily, so I will not be repurchasing these. For a dollar, they were a good deal, though.

The Body Shop Shea Body Scrub This was a very moisturizing scrub and it smelled really nice. It also had very big scrubby chunks, so if you don't like really rough exfoliation, this might not be for you. I mainly used this on my feet, so it was perfect.
B&BW Be Enchanted Lotion This smelled okay and worked like all other Bath and Body Works lotions.
B&BW Black Candy Apple Lotion I couldn't tell if this smelled really good or really bad. It worked as well as all other Bath and Body Works Lotions
Ahava dermud Foot Cream These did not live up to my expectations. I've used Ahava mineral hand cream and Ahava mineral body lotion and loved both...this, not so much. It didn't make my feet softer pretty much at all. I would not repurchase this, as The Body Shop's body butters work about 879458965734 times better.
Exuviance Face Mask This was super fun to peel off, but I found my skin didn't look/feel differently afterwards. Would not repurchase.
Slatikin & Co Cranberry Woods mini candle This reminded me a lot of my mom, who likes this color and the cranberry-y scents. It had a pretty lame throw, though. I would repurchase a bigger size.
B&BW Island Nectar PocketBac This is one of my favorite scents. It is so sweet and juicy! I'm pretty sure it is discontinued, though! Oh well. I'll find something else :)

Herbal Essences Touchably Smooth Shampoo This made my hair soft, but not exceptionally so.
Slatkin & Co. Hot Chocolate Candle This smelled amazing! My whole room smelled like chocolate when I burned it. om nom nom
Redken Shine Flash Glistening Mist This smelled TERRIBLE. I don't know if it was just my bottle or what, but the scent alone was enough to convince me that I should never buy Redken hairspray, ever. It did leave my hair shiny, though.
Clinique All About Eyes sample This lasted FOREVER. If I hadn't cut it open, I'm pretty sure it would have lasted until I graduated college...It was ok. The rollerball applicator does feel quite nice on tired eyes, but I much prefer a tub.
L'Occitane Precious Eye Balm Yup. It felt nice. There really wasn't enough to comment more than that.
Strivectin-SD This smelled like peppermint and tingled just a bit. It was very nice, but there wasn't enough to see if it worked or not.
Adora perfume sample This smelled awful to me. I like light, girly, fresh scents. This was heavy and masculine. blech.
Bright Crystal Versace perfume sample This smelled alright.
Too Faced Primed & Poreless This made my skin feel satiny (which I like) but I'm not sure it helped my makeup stay on.

B&BW Vampire Blood Plum PocketBac Yup. Smelled quite delicious.
Escada Taj Sunset sample This had the nice, fruity scent I love. This was definitely a good sample.
OPI AvoJuice Raspberry Violet This smelled AMAZING and moisturized pretty well. It soaked in very quickly, but I need a little more oomph in my hand cream, so I will be looking for something else after I finish up the other bottles that came in this set.
Nuance Smooth and Shine Shampoo This did actually make my hair quite shiny, but not shiny enough to justify buying a full size bottle.
Slatkin & Co. Salty Caramel This one made me a bit nauseous sometimes because the smell was so strong. One thing I don't like about these candles is how much wax is left when they burn themselves out. My PartyLite candles burn out only when there is maybe a drop of wax left in the candle. These ones, however, clearly have a quarter inch of wax left. And yeah, I could put it in a tart warmer, but guess what? I don't have a tart warmer, and I'm not going to buy one to put the leftover wax in.

October Birchbox

My October Birchbox is better than September. I received:

• Pangea Organics Japanese Matcha Tea Facial Mask: I recently got into facial masks, so this is a nice sample for me. Hopefully it doesn't burn my skin like their moisturizer and cleanser...
• Ahava Revival Bath Salts in Mandarin Cedarwood: I also just started taking weekly baths. It is hard to find good bath stuff around me, so this is also a great sample for them to include.
• Ahava Dermud Foot Cream packets: Hopefully this works as well as the Ahava hand cream and lotion I have tried previously.
• Laura Geller Spackle Tinted Under Makeup Primer in Bronze: I was (and still kinda am) sceptical of anything with "bronze" as the shade name, as I am pretty much anything but bronze. Pasty? Sure. Pale? You betcha. Bronze? Not so much. On the Birchbox card, though, it says "it works on all skin tones-we tested it!," so hopefully this won't turn me into a pumpkin, as festive as that might be. I put some on my glowing white forearm and compared it to the other and can see only a slightly sunny glow, no orange yet. This is a good sign.
• Stila Forever Your Curl Mascara: I love trying new mascaras. I have never even heard of this mascara, and am curious to see how the ultra-skinny brush works with my already curly lashes. 

I was a little bummed I didn't get the laundry detergent like Jeweled Thumb, but I do really like Ahava so I'm happy with my box. It was definitely worth the ten dollars. 

September Empties!

 Suave Kids 2-in-1 Shampoo in Wild Watermelon My hair was super shiny while I used this, even though I didn't use conditioner. It lasted pretty much forever, too. At least 2 straight months using generous amount every day.
True Blue Mini Paraffin Hand Cream This made my hands very soft and kept them that way for a while after, too. It smelled a little weird to me, but I think that was because it isn't scented like anything in particular.
OPI ExpertTouch Nail Polish Remover This made my nails flake terribly. I will not be repurchasing this, especially since it took so long to get nail polish off.
B&BW PocketBac in Calypso Berry 'Nuff said. I love this scent, though.
Curious Perfum Sample I have had this forever and it remains one of my favorite scents. I have so much perfume, though, that I won't be repurchasing any perfume for quite a while.
Claudia Eye Area Toning Cream I got this at Sally's and can't remember the full name. It doesn't have the  brand name on the tub. I didn't really think it did anything special, but as soon as I ran out my eyes looked terrible. I will not be repurchasing though, since I have a few eye treatments still.

 Dove GoFresh Plum and Sakura Blossom Body Wash This was a nice body wash. It smelled ok and left my skin so moisturized afterwards I didn't have to use lotion. Will consider repurchase.
Up&Up Women's Shave Gel in Baby Soft This. Was. Amazing. It was so thick and rich! It made my legs so soft! Way better than actual Skintimate or Schick kind. Will repurchase when I need it again.
The Body Shop Satsuma Body Polish This smelled divine. It was so fresh and fruity without being fake. I didn't like it as a scrub though, but more of a grainy body wash. I will consider repurchase of the Satsuma scented products.
B&BW Charmed Life Lotion I got this free at the Paris Amour event and I'm sure glad I didn't pay for it. This scent gave me a headache more than once and although the effectiveness of their lotion is growing on me, it wasn't worth the headache.

The Body Shop Watermelon Lotion This smelled better than anything I have ever owned. It also left my legs soft and sting-free. Will consider repurchase.
Benefit Triple Performing Facial Emulsion This was absolute hell to get out of the bottle. Seriously, who puts lotion in a GLASS BOTTLE. I had to keep it upside down to get it all out. It worked okay. Will not repurchase.
Sally Hansen Diamond Radiance Hand and Cuticle Polish Meh. I actually went through two of these. They aren't that great. Will not repurchase.

Biore Towelettes I liked these because they had a "scrubby" side that cut through makeup quite well.
UC San Diego Tritons Hand Sanitizer Yeah...it worked.
Ahava Mineral Handcream Smelled just as good as the Ahava lotion I finished earlier this year. It also kept my hands super soft.
Earth Therapeutics Spot Blots This worked ok, but they were easy to rip and hard to get out of the package without accidentally taking 2 or 3. Will not repurchase.
B&BW Orange Sapphire PocketBac Yup. Smell gave me a headache :/

August Empties

Pangea Austrailian Wild Plum and Willow Facial Cleanser This smelled interesting. Not bad, but like nothing else I have every smelled. The formula was very watery which really annoyed me, especially with the packaging of this sasmple. I felt like way more came out than I actually needed to use and dripped off of my hand into the sink. If I left it on my face too long, it would make my face really red as well. The redness would go away in an hour or so, but I had to cover it up before I realized it was this cleanser that was doing that. Otherwise, my skin was very nice while using this. It is much more expensive than Biore, though, and did not work any better, so I will not repurchase.

B&BW Japanese Cherry Blossom Moisturizing hand soap This is REALLY thick and in my opinion, not very moisturizing. It certainly doesn’t dry my hands out, but I can’t tell the difference between using this and using other soap. Also, the thickness of the soap meant blobs of it would get pushed off my hands and land all over the sink, wasting soap. I will not be repurchasing this type of B&BW hand soap.

B&BW Paris Amour lotion This smelled REALLY good. Very girly. Will consider purchase of full size once my collection is thinned a bit.

B&BW Nectarine Mint HandiBac foam This is one of my favorite scents, and I LOVE foamy things. Unfortunately the pump was broken so it was more liquid than foam though. I have enough hand sanitizer to last me 84759 years, so I will not be repurchasing for a while.

Benefit Total Moisture Facial Cream This smelled very nice and clean. It reminds me a lot of Sephora’s Instant Moisturizer. It also came in a cute little glass jar. Will consider repurchase when I need another moisturizer.

Benefit Refined Finish Facial Polish I usually like really scrubby scrubs, but this one was a little intense. It did an amazing job exfoliating, but it was quite rough. I will consider repurchase.

Dove visiblecare Renewing Body Wash I liked this a lot! It was very thick, even for a Dove body wash, and it was very moisturizing without being irritating. Will consider repurchase.

Philosophy Purity Made Simple Facial Cleanser This didn't smell very good, and my skin didn't wow me while I was using it. Will not repurchase.
Philosophy Eternal Grace Firming Body Emulsion I was REALLY excited to receive this as a sample for one of my online orders, but I was disappointed. It was VERY heavily perfumed, and while the scent wasn't bad (I actually liked it at the end of the day when it had worn off a bit), but MY GOD. It is very strong, even when I didn't use a lot of lotion. This is "firming" product, but a sample this size obviously isn't enough to make a judgement on its effectiveness. It stung, too, sometimes even when I hadn't shaved. All in all, I prefer my Body Shop lotion and body butter. Will not repurchase.

Ahava Mineral Body Lotion This made my skin SO soft and it absorbed quickly and didn't sting on freshly-shaven legs. It also had a pleasant, calming scent. Would repurchase if I didn't have a billion things of lotion to use up.

B&BW Sweet Pea PocketBac Spray I bought this purely because I had never seen a liquid spray like this at Bath and Body Works before. It worked...and it smelled good. I like the hand gels better though, because they seem less drying. Would not repurchase.

Olay Wet Cleansing Cloths-Sensitive These worked very well, but I miss the "Olay" scent that the non-sensitive skin ones have. I will repurchase the scented ones after I finish the Biore ones I already have.

Clinique Dramatically Differnt Moisturizing Lotion I got this in a GWP and I fell in love. I bought the gel version in February. Good stuff. I'd like to see what else is out there, though, so I will not be repurchasing after I use up all of the other moisturizers I have.

NOTD and SO MANY SAMPLES...

Essie "Lolipop," two coats and one coat of Orly Sec'n Dry

So, I recently went on a no-buy, which was almost stopped immediately by the Urban Decay sale. In doing so, I took inventory of all my bath and beauty products. I didn't really think I was a perfume person, but I guess I will be now because:

And that doesn't even include my body sprays :P I never realized how many little samples of perfume I was getting in all of my online orders. I will use every single one of these.

Haul and NOTDs; No buy.

China Glaze Strawberry Fields on pinky, ring, middle and pointer finger. OPI DS Reflection on thumb. It doesn't look that different in the picture,but the OPI is so much richer in real life.

One coat of Wet N Wild Black Creme and Matrix-inspired random squiggles with Finger Paints Go Van Gogh!

Today's Haul: B&BW Japanese Cherry Blossom Shower Gel and Bubble Bath, B&BW Into the Wild Body Scrub, B&BW Charmed Life Lotion, OPI DS Reflection, cosmetic bag that came with the Charmed Life lotion.

Also, I have come to a point in my life where I realize spending money on stuff like this isn't really something I should be doing. I'm now on a no-buy until my birthday, when I will order $50 from Sephora and The Body Shop. I will replace things I run out of, but there should only be a couple things I run out of between now and February, things like toothpaste and contact solution. I will spend gift cards, but I will not buy beauty products somewhere like CVS where I can buy things I actually need, like mouth wash and medicine and food. I have money, but I don't have money, you know? So no buy until February.

EDIT: Except Birchbox. I will still spend my $10 a month on Birchbox. It is so worth it, and it is a controlled expense. I can only buy one Birchbox a month, and I know I'm to cheap to buy the full size, so I don't feel bad about getting my Birchboxes.

August Birchbox and NOTD

Two coats of OPI I'm an Aqua-holic on the tips, one coat of Orly Fifty Four all over, and one coat of Orly Sec'n Dry. I used the Nailene French tip guides and I'm really liking this combo.
My August Birchbox was a little disappointing. Other people got Smashbox Photofinish and facial masks...I got a hair mask, facial cleanser, blinc eyeliner and eye treatment pads. I'm now vowing to not look at what other people get in theirs until I get mine :) Still totally worth the $10, though, because in all honesty, I have been on a really big get-rid-of-dark-circles kick, and I almost bought a hair mask at Target the other day.

Sephora haul and NOTD

Sorry for the terrible iPhone picture :P This is two coats of Orly's Star of Bombay, which is a SUPER dark shimmery blue that basically always appears black.
This is what I got in the mail from Sephora today. There is also a Maybelline Pop Stick in 100 Pink Lollipop that I got at CVS and a Eucerin Calming Creme I got from Target. The Sephora stuff includes: Stila Illuminating tinted moisturizer in Shade 01, Stila Sheer Color Tinted Moisturizer in Fair 06, Sephora "if you only try one" instant moisturizer, Benefit One Prime Day kit including "that gal," the POREfessional, and Stay Don't Stray minis. I entered a promo code and recieved a mini Urban Decay Lip Junkie Lipgloss in Midnight Cowboy, which feels cool when you apply it and smells like the white Tic Tacs :)

So far, I'm loving the Sheer Color tinted moisturizer. Both of the tinted moisturizers I got today have SPF 15, which is GREAT, because Clinque Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel has absolutely none.

July Empties!

Skintimate Strawberry Tangerine Twist Works great; smells better. Will repurchase after I use the shaving gels I got in a razor combo pack.

Avon Foot Works Cherry Ice Foot Scrub This was okay for the $1.99 I bought it for. I didn't notice any significant improvement in the softness of my feet. Will not repurchase.

Yes to Tomatoes Trouble-free Facial Wash This smelled pretty good and didn't irritate my skin or make me break out. It didn't foam up, though, probably because it doesn't have any of those sulfates or whatevers that aren't good for your body. I LIKE MY FOAMY FACE WASH. Will not repurchase.

Johnson's Baby Lotion It is what you expect, gentle and baby scented. Will not repurchase, as I didn't like the smell like I thought I would.

L'Oreal Studio Secrets Professional Magic Perfecting Base This reminded me a lot of a "wetter" feeling Smashbox Photofinish. My skin felt oily afterwards, which doesn't happen with the Smashbox primer, so I will not be repurchasing. This lasted a good long time, though, because you barely have to use any.

B&BW LOL Lime PocketBac I am so proud of myself for using one of these up. I would repurchase, but I have about 10000 in my drawer waiting to be used.

Orly French Polynesian Tropical Dew Max Moisture Hand Butter This literally felt like a whipped butter. I really liked it, especially as lotion on my legs. Would repurchase if there weren't constantly new things for me to try.

The Republic of Pink Bliss Gorgeoous Hands This was pomegranate scented and worked very well. I also adore the packaging. OPI AvoJuice still tops this though, so I will not be repurchasing.
Samy Ultra-lightweight Conditioning Serum This used to work wonders for me, but it just wasn't behaving like it used to. Believe it or not, this is the third I've bought. I loved it so much before, but now it doesn't really seem to do anything to my hair.

Philosophy Happy Birthday Beautiful! Love, love, love this scent and I used it as a body wash. It was ok as a shampoo occasionally, but I wouldn't use it every day.

Neutrogena Energizing Fresh Citrus Sugar Body Scrub very "solid," didn't do much for my calluses.
Herbal Essences Long Term Relationship Conditioner Worked pretty darn good, smelled great. Would repurchase, but I like trying new things.

Aveeno Positively Nourishing Calming Body Wash Moisturized ok, smelled ok, but was not the irritated-skin soother I expected it to be. Would not repurchase.

Skintimate Shave Gel in Mango Smelled good, but not as good as the strawberry/tangerine one. Would repurchase.
Bath and Body Works Fresh Lemon Anti-Bac Foam 'Nuff said.

Secret Scent Expressions Ooh La La Lavender This didn't smell particularly lavender-y to me, so I would not repurchase.

California Mango Mango Buff This had the weird not-mango scent that plagues every product I have used from this line. Didn't make my hands noticeably softer, either. Will not repurchase.

Pantene Medium Thick Conditioner Pantene makes some of my favorite conditioner, and I have already repurchased this baby.

Aveeno Nourish&Moisturize Conditioner This isn't really enough to do a review on, but it didn't dry my hair out. Would consider repurchasing.
Yes to Tomatoes Total Treatment Facial Mask This had a pleasant scent and went on nice and thick. My skin definitely looked calmer after I used this. Would repurchase if it were less expensive.

Lancome Genifique Youth Activating Concentrate This was SUPER runny and I felt like I was just asking for a disaster every time I squeezed that tube. I used this simply because I had a sample, and as it didn't help with my dark circles AT ALL (because it isn't really designed to), I will not repurchase.

Boscia Oil-Free Daily Hydration SPF 15 This worked very well, although it didn't get rid of the little flakies by my nose. My only quibble is the scent; every time I used it, it smelled like I was rubbing a tree on my face. The scent wasn't unpleasant, exactly, just unexpected. The scent disappeared quickly, though.

Yes to Cucumbers Facial Towelettes I used these when I went up to Washington State with my family, as a quicker way to wash my face at night. My skin never looked better, I swear. I am addicted to product, though, so I already bought another kind of towelette for makeup removal.

Biore Make-Up Removing Towelettes Worked well enough.

Biore Pore Unclogging Scrub one of my favorite scrubs: creamy, but gets the job done.

H2O+ Sea Results Eye Mender Plus THIS IS A MIRACLE. My dark circles were significantly reduced when using this. If it weren't so expensive, I would totally buy the full size.

Vaseline Sheer Infusion Botanical Blend This stuff works really well and didn't sting on freshly shaven legs. Would consider repurchasing.

Orly French Polynesian Max Moisture Hand Butter see above.

Body Shop Spiced Vanilla Body Butter This lasted FOREVER, as in at least 7 months. This is actually the body butter that made me go back to the Body Shop. It smells good, it makes my skin EXTREMELY soft and smooth. The BS Body Butter is my HG butter, though not necessarily in this scent. Have already repurchased.

Mane 'n Tail Hand & Nail Therapy This was meh. It didn't smell bad, but not good either. It moisturized okay after it finally absorbed. Would not repurchase.

Freeman Bare Foot Revitalizing Lemon and Sage Foot Balm Meh. It was extremely messy and not very moisturizing. It smelled alright, though. Would not repurchase.

B&BW Country Chic Lotion This is good for skin that doesn't need a ton of moisture. I didn't particularly like this scent, though. I have repurchased B&BW lotion in a different scent, however.
Lots of product this month. I have so much mostly-used stuff that it looks like I am being wasteful...I'm just a product junkie...

NOTDs (pic heavy)

Companion Cube-inspired nails with Zoya Kelly for the pinky, middle and pointer fingers and OPI Skull and Glossbones and Orly Cotton Candy (I think, anyways) for the accent finger.

Portal-themed toes with Sally Girl Hottie for the orange and China Glaze Frostbite for the blue.

China Glaze White on White for the base and Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Blue Away for the dots (foot picture again, sorry!)

Orly Halley's Comet

Finger Paints Go Van Gogh!

OPI Fiercely Fiona

Orly Razzle

China Glaze Flying Dragons (Neon) for the tips, topped with Orly Fifty Four

OPI Skull and Glossbones

OPI Sparkle-icious

Sorry about the lack of posts. I've been a lazy bum lately, plus I've been working 8 hour days :)