Review - Caldrea Green Tea Verbena Diffuser exclusively for Target

NICE FOR YOU, KIND TO THE PLANET, EVEN BETTER FOR YOUR HOME.

At The Caldrea Company, our team of earth-loving scientists, designers and passionate home keepers use the finest plant-derived ingredients and essential oils to provide natural freshness, superior fragrances and cleaning potency. No harsh chemicals, no harsh fragrances; a simple, stylish and fresh approach to cleaning and to providing home
ambiance in a fragrance collection of your own choosing.

All our liquid products are biodegradable. Our products do not contain ammonia, chlorine, phosphates, formaldehyde, parabens, DEA, phthalates, or petroleum distillates.

We do not test our products on animals. As a member of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil, we only source sustainable palm oil.

Caldrea Essential Collection, the essence of Caldrea distilled into a fresh, modern approach. Available exclusively at Target.

I absolutely love earth friendly products for my skin.  Why not embrace them for your home as well?  Lets face it, times are changing and everyone is taking a shot at being green.  After all, this planet is where we live so lets take care of it.

Caldrea is offering a variety of products, all earth friendly and intended for the home as well as your skin.

I tried the Green Tea Verbena kitchen diffuser.  It is such a light, fresh scent.  Its not overpowering, you can cook and do all of your chores but still get a gentle reminder that its there.

The little ceramic bottle is absolutely adorable.  At the top of the bottle, there is a simple little green leaf that diffuses the oil. Its refillable and pretty sturdy so there is no limit of how many times you can use it.  This collection is made exclusively for Target and costs $19.99. 

I have used many different diffusers varying from $5-$40.  The $19.99 price is pretty average.  I can definitely see myself purchasing other Caldrea products in the future. 

One last plus, for all of you animal lovers out there: Caldrea does NOT test on animals! Love, love and love!

Review - Simple Moisturizing Facial Wash

Our Moisturizing Facial Wash leaves your skin thoroughly cleansed and nourished, plus it's a perfect blend of our purest possible skin loving ingredients with added vitamins.

I am beginning to love Simple products! This facial wash is so gentle.  There is no burn or no sting.  As gentle as it is, it still manages to clean your face well. I've been using this with the toner and I am loving the results so far.  My face doesn't get dried out after I wash it.

I have extra senstivie skin and that makes me a perfect candidate for Simple.  There are just natural ingredients which make for a low risk of allergic reactions or breakouts. 

Simple products are easily found in your local pharmacy.  They have a complete line of skin care products, such as cleansing wipes, toner, eye rollers, day/night creams and moisturizers.

Review - Butter London Lippy in Primrose Hill Picnic

Introducing LIPPY by butter LONDON. LIPPY is a range of long-wearing, lacquer-like lip glosses in shades to match our famous nail lacquers. Like the butter LONDON nail lacquers, LIPPY colours are rich and heavily pigmented for a look that is deliberate, high fashion, and luxe. LIPPY does not contain parabens, phthalates, sulphates, or bismuth. If you’re being LIPPY, look the part.

I recently reviewed Butter London's 3 Free nail laquer in the matching color to this Lippy.  I have to say this color is bold!! What a statement.  I think this is one of those colors that can look good on just about any skin tone. 

In addition to packing a punch in color, it also lasts long.  It stayed on for about 4 hours -for a lipgloss that is GREAT! The price is about $17 but you will not be reapplying every hour so this will last a while.

I am also going to point out the fact that these Lippys were meant to match certain shades of the laquers which I think is a great idea.  You could have your nails, toes and lips all the same color!

Be sure to check out all the different color options.  You can also purchase them as a set.  (1) 3 Free Laquer & (1) Lippy in matching colors. 

Review- Smashbox Photo Op Eyeshadow

Our fab trios are all playfulness and color! Get rich, bold hues in just one swipe. Each includes 3 coordinated shadows-base shade, contour color and highlighter-so you'll never wonder which shades to wear together again. You'll even find application tips on the peel-back label.

• Super blendable, velvety formula
• Highly pigmented, even color
• Lasting wear

Smashbox, wow you really hit it this time! I've been on the longest search/hunt for an eyeshadow palette that could pretty much cover everything I needed and wanted on an everyday basis. This one fulfilled it. It is really rich in color and applies evenly. The soft and smooth texture makes it really easy to wear and blend, especially if you're always late or in a rush, like me! And the staying power - no doubt, it lasts throughout the day without budging or compromising. All of these factors contribute to my favorite kind of eyeshadow. There are so many color combos to pick from, I recommend choosing and coordinating the colors you like the most that best complements your eye color and skin tone. Because even though it's a little on the pricey side running about $28, this Smashbox Photo Op Trio makes up for it by being nicely pigmented and long-lasting throughout the day. To me, as a trio, it is very worth it, especially if you're picky about eyeshadows (the color, texture, and wear-ability), this is one that fully passed my test!

Review: Revlon's NEW Colorstay Nail Products(Spoiler: RAVE!)

 

 

"Gel-Like shine and up to 11 days of shatterproof color*.

*When worn with Colorstay™ base & top coats

Colorstay nail color formula is fortified with unique ingredients that provide high impact color and gel-like shine in fashion forward range of shades and finishes. This technology is based on a unique combination of resin and high molecular weight polymers designed to provide flexible, shatterproof color with excellent color retention and gloss."

Okay, I have to admit I was very skeptical about the claims of 11 day wear, but I'm now a firm believer!  I just removed my manicure after 10 days and it would have lasted even longer had I not gone to the beach yesterday.  Now, for a change, no one gave me this nail polish to review.  I spent my own cash on the base coat, top coat and colors of this polish that I own.  For me to rave about a product that I spent my own money on is really rare.  It has to be a super-performer, and this system definitely is.  Now I know that when you've seen it at the drugstore you've been reluctant to plop down $8.99 x 3 just to try this nail system (you really must have the base coat, the top coat and a color), but if you keep your eyes open, you'll find deals like I did such as the one at CVS two weeks ago, the entire line was buy one for $4.99 get $3 CVS bucks back (I'm unsure of the limit on the number of bottles on this sale).  So you can get away with owning this great system relatively cheap.  I currently own all of the colors I like and I brought two matching colors to get a manicure 10 days ago.  True, manicures seem to last longer when done by a professional, but come on!  10 days!  That's awesome.  And the best part, my nails are just as strong as when the polish went on, unlike when I get shellac mani's.  It comes of with ease to boot.  Search those Sunday circulars this week because I'll bet one of your local drug stores or chain stores will have a sale on these wonderful products.  P.S. Don't forget to apply two coats of each product, allowing drying time between coats or else it will not turn out correctly and it will bubble.

Review - White Sands Orchids Oil

This Orchid oil extract restores moisture, shine, elasticity and softness to hair that has become damaged from chemical treatments, and thermal stress. White Sands’ interest in Orchids for hair is inspired from studies that have shown the orchid’s mysterious capacity for longevity, beauty, and its versatility to adjust to different environments with vibrant color. Orchid oil is very light weight, unlike most other oils it does not affect the hairs ability to perform when styling.


I had never heard of White Sands or Orchid oil before.  I was pleasantly surprised when I used this product.  Its very lightweight but it leaves your hair super shiny and soft.  I use it right after I wash my hair.  It really has improved the condition of my split ends. If you have damaged tresses, this is definitely worth giving a try.  It runs at about $20 for a 3oz bottle and it will last a while. Not sure which product to try? Check out their "Tell me more sections".  They will walk you through the best products for your hair type.

Review- Simple Soothing Facial Toner

Remove the last traces of make-up and cleanser with our Soothing Facial Toner to clarify and refresh your skin.

 •Chamomile gently soothes


•Witch Hazel helps tone and tighten pores


•100% alcohol free so is non drying and leaves skin soft


•pH balanced so works in harmony with your skin


1 Vital Vitamin, 3 Skin Loving Nutrients & 0 Harsh Chemicals. Thats it.  You won't find one word you can't pronounce on Simple's products. 
If you have sensitive skin, this line is for you.  This toner leaves your face bright, soft and smooth.  It doesn't sting or burn.  Its gentle, & that is how a face product should be.
Simple is now available at many different stores such as Target, Kmart & more recently I have seen their products in CVS which means the prices are affordable. 
Its nice to know what you are putting on face, so make it easy and make it Simple!

Sultana's Favorites!

Hey all you lovely beauty junkies! I'd like to follow in my fellow bloggers footsteps and share some of my favs with you!

Mascara- L'Oreal Voluminous in Carbon Black.  Super long, super soft and bold black lashes. I also am a fan of Revlon Grow Luscious in Blackest Black.  I love the huge brush size and the fact that it makes your lashes a little longer.

Nail Polish- Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure.  So many shades and so many options.  Base coat, color and top coat in one! I also am a huge fan of Essie nail polishes, and more recently I am loving Butter London as well.

Nail Treatment- Nutra Nail Green Tea & Acai Berry Nail Growth.  This works, period.  You will have longer nails in no time!

Primer- Smashbox Photo Finish Oil Free Primer.  This will make your face smooth and flawless.  No acne and no oily messes!

Lipstain- Smashbox Limitless Lipstain in Sangria.  Great color, and a moisturizing matching balm. 

Body Wash- Bath & Body Works Charmed Life.  Its discontinued, but if you are lucky you can find some minis in the stores.  This smells like heaven in a bottle!

Lip Balm- Lipfusion Conditioning stick.  Cute, silver case and smells great.  Leaves your lips soft & so smooth.
I also love Coola & Softlips.

Lipstick- Motives Go Red lipstick.  Perfect red for just about any skin tone. This has really good staying power as well. 

Eyeshadow- Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics loose color pigments.  These give you a great kick of color and the fact that its loose, allows you to control how much you want to use. I also love Motives Luxe Cream shadow and glitter shadows.  Pretty & pearly and LOTS of sparkle!

Eyeliner- Motives Precision Eyeliner in Jet Black.
This has become an everyday staple for me.  Its a must have.

Lash Growth- Jan Marini Lash.  Works super fast and leaves your lashes conditioned and healthy.

Anti-Frizz treatments- Citre Shine ant-frizz serum.  Leaves your hair smelling nice and tames frizzies.  I also LOVE Citre Shine Split End Mender!!!!! Intensive hair smoother and repairer.

Cleanser- Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser.  Feels like a facial in a bottle!

Moisturizer- DDF Mattifying Oil Control Lotion.  Moisturizes without feeling too heavy.  I also love Cosmedicine Mattifying Lotion. 

Detangler- Prive Thermal Protection Spray Detangler.  I love this! Makes your hair smells so good and leaves it feeling super soft.

Dry Shampoo- Batiste Dry Shampoo.  I use this when I don't have time to wash my hair and it leaves it looking like I just did.

Shampoo & Conditioner- L'Oreal Sulfate Free Cleansing Conditioner. I have colored hair, so I always use sulfate free shampoos and conditioners.  Recently, L'Oreal came out with their gold collection which included a Conditioning Cleanser and I absolutely love it.  Its a cheaper alternative to some of the more expensive cleansers out there.

I hope you enjoyed my favorites and I hope to hear about some of yours as well!!!!! Smooches!

Review - Butter London 3 Free Nail Lacquer

http://www.butterlondon.com/lacquers/3-free-lacquers/primrose-hill-picnic

Butter London 3 Free Nail Lacquer.  No Formaldeyhde, no toluene, No DBP.  Color, Not Carcinogens. $14

I absolutely love companies that love the earth and support natural ingredients.  Butter London is definitely one of them.  The above picture shows one of the 3 Free nail colors in Primrose Hill Pink. Which the website describes as: A happy, punchy tropical, fuschia pink that will make you want to want to take off your shoes and run barefoot through the office. 

I can say that this is a color that makes you feel exactly that way! I usually don't wear bright colors but since the summer is approaching I figured it would be nice to start experimenting. 

This polish goes on very smoothly and dries quickly which are two very important factors to me.  They also offer a variety of colors.  This color in particular, is part of a new collection where Butter London introduced "Lippy" which is a long wearing liquid lipstick to match certain shades of the lacquers.  Cutest idea ever! Its great to have the option of having your nails and toes match with your lips! Not enough companies do that.  As a matter of fact, I can't even think of one off the top of my head that does.

So the price is $14, which is a little pricey but you can also purchase them in packs and it makes them a little more affordable.  You are paying for excellent quality products as well as the name.  Butter London is in every fashion magazine that you look at. 

I am definitely excited to try more colors, especially the glitters!!! Stay tuned for my review on the matching Lippy!

Favorite Beauty Products

 

The funnest part about experimenting with beauty products is finding out what works and doesn't quite work for us individually. I know some people who are adamantly devoted to a certain beauty product, and yet, for one reason or another, it didn't quite perform so well on others. Having said  that, some products truly do stand out on their own and remain on my list of go-to products. 

Nail Product - I'm an Essie fan.  I admit it. I know everyone has their favorite polish and for me, I can always rely on a bottle of Essie for a nice pick-me-up in color and consistency. My next honorable mention has to go to NYC Color nail polish. To me they are fun, affordable and surprisingly long-lasting!

Shampoo & Conditioner - It's true, the better the shampoo and conditioner, the better my  hair looks. I simply can't get around that. My favorite combination would have to be B. Shampoo and Conditioner Perfected. For a while there, it was nice to think that my hair naturally looked that way all the time, but the credit really goes to this lovely combination.

Styling Product - On the more expensive end, I love  Josie Maran Argan Oil Hair Serum, it keeps my hair well-behaved and in place. Yet, when I need something more affordable for day-to-day wear, like going to the grocery store or the post-office, I resort to my usual Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Serum. I've used it for years.

Facial Cleanser - Once a dermatologist told me what her favorite facial cleanser was even compared to the more high-end products she's known and used in the past and I had to completely agree with her! We both delighted in the fact that CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser kept the wrinkles at bay and softened the skin remarkably. It really is a top secret among dermatologists and just as easily accessible in drugstores! 

Facial Toner - I'm not a huge toner fan, it just seems like an extra step to a long list of beauty-routine steps already, but when I do use toner, I'm happiest with the SpaMD results.

Facial Serum - I do have to wear facial serum though. That's a step I can't afford to skip anymore. One of my favorites is the SpaMD Oil-Free Anti-Aging serum. It's lightweight, but covers fine lines almost magically.

Facial Moisturizer - The same dermatologist from above also recommended the Olay Regenerist moisturizer to me. Since I knew that she knew what she was talking about, I gave it a try. For an affordable drugstore moisturizer, I agree the Olay Regenerist product does a nice job of promoting youthful skin.

Body soap - My sister recently gifted me with natural soaps from Wildly American and their coal soap is like nothing I've tried before. It is so deeply penetrating and cleansing, it really feels like I'm washing away all kinds of impurities on the skin. Such a clean and refreshing feeling that it makes taking a shower to a new level!

Body Scrub - I still love the Whish Sugar Scrub. Everything from the scent to the consistency and the natural oils makes for happy skin.

Foundation -  I switch around with foundation a lot. Most of the time, I prefer wearing mineral powder foundations, which my favorite would be Sheer Cover Mineral Foundation.

Primer - Kevyn Aucoin's Sensual Skin primer is one my favorite products. Sometimes, I can skip moisturizer +  foundation as long as I can use this on my skin and I'm ready to go, with a loose dusting a powder.

Blush - Cargo is my favorite blush brand. I've gone through a couple of their blushes already and use every bit of it in the pan! However now that  the shade I love is no longer available, I've been wearing Tarte's Amazonian Clay Blushes. It looks very natural and pretty on.

Eyeshadow - I've used the high expensive brands, medium brands, and drugstore brands and my favorite eyeshadow palette is from Prestige Cosmetics Beauty Bar. I'm just about out of it, using every last bit of it left, and still can't quite find the right replacement for it. In single eyeshadow colors, I've used NARS Nymphea for a long time.

Mascara - I tend to switch around with mascara a lot too. Right now my go-to standard is CoverGirl's Lash Blast Mascara. If I ever do try Lancome's Definicils, I'll write back and let you know how it goes!

Eyeliner - I'm not a big eyeliner person, but I really like Smashbox's Limitless Eyeliner pencil. The shade and texture were just right and lasted all day.

That's my list. Hopefully you could agree with some and disagree with others, but feel free to let us know what makes your top list too!