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.