Tag: beauty

Products I’ve Used Up #2

Happy Monday! It’s time for another “empties” post here at Adventures in Polishland. I think these posts are a great opportunity to learn about a lot of products in a short amount of time. Plus, they serve as a personal reminder since I can always look back and see which products I would repurchase in the future. Let’s get right into all of the products I’ve used up!

HAIR CAREProducts I've Used Up

  • L’Oreal Paris Triple Resist Reinforcing Conditioner – I’ve been using this L’Oreal system for a while now, and I really like it. My hair seemed to strengthen a bit, and I have no complaints! Plus, this line is really affordable. With sales and coupons, I can find this for around $2-3! [BUY at the drugstore]
  • Not Your Mother’s Beat the Heat Thermal Styling Shield Spray – I picked up this heat protectant last year, and it lasted forever! This protectant was just okay. It worked to protect my hair, but it left my hair crunchy and has a weird smell. Despite it being an affordable $5.99, I don’t think I would repurchase it again. [BUY]

NAIL CARE

Products I've Used Up

  • CVS Strengthening Polish Remover – This used to be my go to nail polish remover, and I snagged a couple bottles a few months back during a clearance event for just $0.55! After using pure acetone and the Julep remover, this just doesn’t cut it for me anymore. It’s good, but not the best. [BUY at CVS]
  • Julep Acetone Free Condition Nail Polish Remover – This is my all time favorite polish remover! It works really well, plus it leaves my nails feeling healthy and it doesn’t have a strong smell. Unfortunately, it is a tad expensive. I would totally buy this in large quantities if Julep had that option! I highly recommend this! [BUY]

SKINCARE 

Products I've Used Up

  • Clean & Clear Foaming Facial Cleanser for Sensitive Skin – This is another product that lasted me a very long time. It’s a great cleanser for sensitive skin, and I used it whenever I wanted a gentle cleansing. I would repurchase it again in the future for sure. [BUY] 
  • Michael Todd Jojoba Charcoal Facial Scrub – I got this scrub in an Ipsy bag a few months back, and I am in love. This is the best scrub I’ve ever used! My skin always felt so clear and healthy after I used it. Although it is a bit on the expensive side, I will definitely be repurchasing it after I run out of the scrub I’m using now. It is seriously worth it! [BUY]
  • Gold Bond Ultimate Skin Therapy Cream – I talked about this moisturizer in my December Favorites, and it made that list for a reason! This is a great lotion, and I would definitely repurchase it at some point. Read more about it HERE. [BUY]

Products I've Used Up

  • Simple Cleansing Facial Wipes – I really do like these makeup wipes, and I am working my way through a few packs that my Mom got me for Christmas (thanks, Mom!). You can see all of my thoughts on these wipes HERE. Make sure to grab them during sale events, or shop on Amazon for a great price! [BUY]
  • Tatcha Aburatorigami Beauty Papers – I got these blotting papers in a PopSugar box, and was happy to try them out. Unfortunately, these were a flop for me. The blotting papers from the drugstore work much better than these high end ones for a much lower price. I wouldn’t repurchase them. [BUY]

MAKEUP

Products I've Used Up

  • Too Faced Primed & Poreless – I’ve talked about this primer many times on Adventures in Polishland, so I won’t go on forever! This is my first bottle, and it lasted me several months so it is a good investment product. You can see my full review HERE. [BUY]
  • Revlon Lash Potion by Grow Luscious in Blackened Brown – This mascara was good, but not my favorite. I did like it on days where I wanted natural looking lashes, and I applied it with short and fast strokes. This did clump up rather quickly, but I’ve heard others have really liked it. I’m not sure I would repurchase it, but it’s not a bad product! [BUY]
  • Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder in Transluscent – I love this powder, and have repurchased it several times! With coupons and sale events at the drugstore, I get this powder for next to nothing. Plus, it’s a great quality product. I wish I was able to make use of the residual product still left in the container, but at such an affordable price, I don’t feel bad throwing it out as is. [BUY at drugstores]

SAMPLES

Products I've Used Up

  • REN Hydra-Calm Global Protection Day Cream – I got this as a free sample with a Sephora order, and loved it! It has a bit of an odor, but works so well to moisturize my skin. I considered purchasing the full size, but when I saw it was $45 I had to say no! If you have room for this in your budget, it’s a great product! [BUY]
  • Taylor Swift Enchanted Wonderstruck Perfume – I may not be a Taylor Swift fan, but I’m a huge supporter of this perfume! I loved this so much I asked for a full size for Christmas. I love the fruity yet musky scent. Plus, you can get a great price by purchasing this on Amazon instead of a department store! [BUY]
  • Versace Bright Crystal Perfume – I also loved this perfume sample by Versace. It smelled expensive! It also has a great mix of sweet and sultry scents together. I would consider getting the full size if it were more affordable. [BUY]
  • Benefit It’s Potent! Eye Cream – Finally, I got this eye cream in a Birchbox, and really liked it. It really is potent, so make sure to be careful when applying it so the cream doesn’t go in your eye. I’m using another eye cream now, but I would definitely consider purchasing the full size in the future. [BUY]

Phew! That is a lot of empties this time around! I hope you liked hearing more about these products. I always feel a bit accomplished when I finish up a product, since it makes me feel like I got my money’s worth. Do you agree? Let me know if you’ve tried out any of these products in the comments!

This post contains affiliate links. All opinions are my own. See my Disclosure Policy for more information.

Pretty Polished Pointers 5k/6k Giveaway!

 

Happy Monday! I’ve teamed up with some fellow bloggers and indie makers to celebrate Pretty & Polished Pointers reaching 5,000 Facebook Likes! Please make sure to read through this entry carefully, as the rules are a bit different than the giveaways I host. Let me know if you have any questions! 

Starts 2/10/14 12am MST Ends 3/3/14 12am MST

Pretty and Polished Pointers: Zoya, Dazzle Dry, Nicole Opi, Incoco and Nail art Supplies Prize Pack!Prize Pack #1

Beauty Shoes Nails and Fun: China Glaze and Stripping tape Prize Pack

Prize Pack #2

LynBDesignHe’s Cluing for Looks and We All Do Silly Things

Prize Pack #3

Lemonade Nail: Salon Effects nail app and Nail Art supplies Prize Pack

Prize Pack #4

Coloure My Obsession Picture Polish and Butter London

Prize Pack #5

Lace & Lacquers: OPI, Sally Hansen and Sephora Prize Pack

Prize Pack #6

Peace, Love and Polish: $15 Llarowe egift Card

Prize #7

Llarowe E-Gift Card

Jindie NailsValentine Duo


Prize Pack #8

 

Pointless Cafe: Qtica, Sealore and Lynderella Prize Pack
Prize Pack 9
Tall Girl in Heels: OPI Prize Pack
Prize Pack 10
The Nail Files: OPI Fit to Tied Set and Bracelets Prize Pack
Prize Pack 11
Mentality: $25 Gift Certificate
Prize Pack 12
 
Adventures in Polishland: Favorites Prize Pack
Prize Pack 13
 
Baroness of Glitter: Bubble Goth
Prize Pack 14

 

Giveaway Rules:
Giveaway ends 3/3/14
13 winners
Open to US addresses only
Must be 18 years old to enter
Winner has 48 hours to respond back to their prize sponsor or a new winner will be chosen
Enter through the Rafflecopter Widget
Extra entries can be gained daily
All entries will be modified (no cheating)
 
Good Luck!

 

Let Your Natural Beauty Shine in 2014 with L’Oreal Products! #WalgreensBeauty

CB Disclosure White Background 600 px wide

Happy Sunday! Today I am excited to share with you some great products from L’Oreal that are all new to me. Adventures in Polishland is all about being fabulous and affordable, and everything in this post sure fits that description. I headed to Walgreens to check out the L’Oreal section, and got some great deals along the way. I had my eye on the brand new Voluminous Butterfly Mascara, and of course picked up some other goodies as well. Let me show you the makeup and nail looks I created, to share how to be beautiful in 2014!

Let Your Natural Beauty Shine in 2014 with L'Oreal Products! WalgreensBeauty #shop #cbias

MAKEUP TUTORIAL

My first aim was to create a new makeup look that let my natural beauty shine. If you’ve followed my blog for a while, you know that while I love trying out new makeup trends, I typically stick to the basics. If you’re looking for a more natural look in the new year, here are a few makeup tips I have for you!

STEP 1 – A FLAWLESS COMPLEXION

L'Oreal Paris Magic Nude Liquid Powder #WalgreensBeauty #shop #cbias
L'Oreal Paris Magic Nude Liquid Powder Swatch #WalgreensBeauty #shop #cbias

L’Oreal Paris Magic Nude Liquid Powder – 312 Classic Ivory – $12.99

I always like to use some sort of foundation just to ensure my skin is looking clear and even. I’ve been intrigued with the concept of the Magic Nude Liquid Powder since it was first released, and just had to try it! This foundation goes on like a liquid and dries to a powder finish. Just shake the bottle, tap a few drops into your hand, and rub it onto your face like a lotion. I was skeptical, but it works! I get a gorgeous, natural finish that lasts all day! I’m so impressed with this foundation, and highly recommend it.

STEP 2 – AWESOME EYELASHES

#WalgreensBeauty #shop #cbias
I found the Voluminous Butterfly Mascara right away! My store had a lot in stock!

#WalgreensBeauty #shop #cbias 
#WalgreensBeauty #shop #cbias

L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Butterfly Mascara – Blackest Black – $8.99

L’Oreal just released the Voluminous Butterfly Mascara, and as soon as I saw the unique applicator I couldn’t wait to give it a try. I rarely like a mascara upon the first use, but I am blown away with this one! Not only does it grab onto each lash to separate and lengthen, but it truly curls the lashes into a beautiful, winged out look. The formula is great, and I experienced no clumping whatsoever. I also like that this mascara is ophthalmologist tested, and safe for even those with sensitive eyes. I’ve definitely found my new favorite mascara!

STEP 3 – LUSCIOUS LIPS

#WalgreensBeauty #shop #cbias

L’Oreal Paris Colour Riche Lipcolour – 174 Rose Taffeta – $9.99

The last step in this makeup look is a bit of lipstick. Despite what other makeup you may (or may not) be wearing, lip color can really change up your look completely. I grabbed a nice pink shade that isn’t too bright to ensure my lips would look polished yet still natural. I’m loving Rose Taffeta! The formula is moisturizing and easy to apply. Plus, the shade is quite wearable.

COMPLETED MAKEUP LOOK

#WalgreensBeauty #shop #cbiasMANICURE

#WalgreensBeauty #shop #cbiasOf course, I had to pick up a couple L’Oreal nail polishes at Walgreens, too. I spotted the limited edition The Magic Top Coats display, and grabbed The Holographic. Then I headed to the permanent display to pick up a color to go with my new top coat.

#WalgreensBeauty #shop #cbias #WalgreensBeauty #shop #cbiasI began with L’Oreal in Paparazzi Pleaser, a purple creme polish that has a hint of blue to create a dustier shade. I applied three coats for the look in the photos, and I’m loving this color for winter. It’s not too “out there,” but it’s different than a neutral or pink. Paparazzi Pleaser also pleases Adventures in Polishland!

#WalgreensBeauty #shop #cbias #WalgreensBeauty #shop #cbias #WalgreensBeauty #shop #cbiasTo complete the look, I applied two coats of The Holographic, a flakie top coat. I have never worked with a flakie before, but it is quite like a glitter top coat, just with flakes of holographic leaf in place of glitters. I was surprised with how chunky The Holographic is, but it definitely looks neat. I had a difficult time capturing just how holographic my nails look in person, but the last picture gives you an idea of the reflective shine. It’s really cool!

L’OREAL PARIS BUTTERFLY MASCARA LAUNCH EVENT

Join L’Oreal and Walgreens on Wednesday, January 15 at the Walgreens in Times Square from 11:00am–3:00pm! Get an eye makeover in-store, and pick up the new mascara! This is sure to be a fun experience, and I just know you’ll love the mascara!

GIVEAWAY

Last but not least, L’Oreal is also providing one of you with the Voluminous Butterfly Mascara! Please enter using the Rafflecopter below, and ensure you read all of the Terms & Conditions written in the widget.

 a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

December 2013 Favorites!

Happy Friday! It’s officially 2014 now, and that means I need to share my December 2013 favorites with all of you. December was an interesting month – it started quite stressful with finals, and then ended with the holidays and spending time with family. I even spent half of December without any nail polish on at all (okay, to be honest I’m STILL not wearing any, but that will change soon!). Despite my nontraditional month, I managed to love some certain things. Here are my December 2013 favorites!

HAND SOAP

Bath & Bodyworks Fresh Sparkling SnowBath & Bodyworks Fresh Sparkling Snow Foaming Soap [BUY]

I don’t typically buy foaming soap, but my mom gave this to me when I visited for the holidays, and I’m obsessed with it! The scent of Fresh Sparkling Snow is so yummy! Bath & Bodyworks describes it as snow-covered pine, musk, and moss, and I think it’s the perfect combination. I’m thinking of stocking up during the clearance sale to make sure I’ll have enough to last me the year!

LIP BALM

eos lip balm in summer fruiteos Lip Balm in Summer Fruit [BUY]

Every night before bed I’ve been applying this lip balm, which I recently discovered is pronounced ee-ohs (that blew my mind!). While this isn’t my favorite lip balm of all time, I’m definitely a sucker for the unique packaging and application. Plus, I really like the Summer Fruit flavor!

CONCEALER

Manna Kadar Concealer WarmManna Kadar Concealer Trio in Warm Front [BUY] [FULL REVIEW]

I’ve been loving this concealer trio since I first tried it! The light shade is just perfect for my skin tone, and it applies flawlessly. I’ve even worn it alone without foundation on days when I’m not wearing much makeup at all. It’s a bit expensive, but 100% worth it!

BODY LOTION

Gold Bond Ultimate Healing LotionGold Bond Ultimate Skin Therapy Cream [BUY]

My mom gave me this mini size Gold Bond, and I’ve already used up the entire thing! It is so amazing – no scent, very moisturizing, and not greasy. I definitely still love my Nivea lotion, but this one is fantastic as well. It is very healing and perfect for the winter months. I highly recommend it (and yes, it would be great for swatching!).

BAR SOAP

Wisalya Apple Jack SoapWisalya Soap [BUY]

Last year my brother and sister-in-law gave me a trio of Wisalya soaps for Christmas, and I knew I wanted more this year! I got a variety of scents as gifts, and this month I’ve been loving Black Raspberry Vanilla (but took a picture of Apple Jack since the other is half used in my shower!). I really love Wisalya soaps – they’re handmade with natural ingredients and smell wonderful. Plus, you support a small business with your purchase! Definitely check out the shop!

EXPERIENCE

JulieGBeauty and Adventures in Polishland

Julie G NYC Meet Up [FULL DETAILS]

One of the highlights of December was meeting Julie G of YouTube. I wrote a full blog post about the experience, but I definitely wanted to include it in my favorites post. It was truly a wonderful time, and it brightened up the middle of my final exams.

What were your favorites in December? Share them with me in the comments or use hashtag #PolishlandFaves on social media!

Some of the products in this post were provided for my unbiased review. This post contains affiliate links. All opinions are my own. See my Disclosure Policy for more information. 

My New Year’s Beauty Resolutions for 2014!

Happy Wednesday, and Happy New Year! Today I’ll be sharing my New Year’s Beauty Resolutions with you, and encourage you to participate as well. Whether it’s budgeting money, taking better care of your skin, or simply trying out some new products, New Year’s is the perfect time to set some goals for the year ahead, even when it comes to beauty. Let’s celebrate the start of 2014 together with some beauty resolutions! Make sure to stay tuned to the end of this post to learn how you can get involved, and share your resolutions with the beauty community!

MY BEAUTY RESOLUTIONS

Always Remove Makeup Before Bed

PONDS Makeup Remover WipesI’m usually pretty good about removing any makeup I’m wearing before bed, but there are those nights when I find myself under the covers ready to catch some z’s and I’m not getting up again to wash my face. While I know it’s best to go through a complete nighttime skincare routine, I’m pledging to at the very least use makeup remover wipes to get makeup off my face before bed. Did you know that for every night you don’t remove makeup your skin ages 30 days? I’m combatting that with PONDS Evening Soothe Wet Cleansing Towelettes at the moment.

Take Better Care of My Hands and Cuticles

Burt's Bees Honey & Grapseed Hand CreamDespite being a nail polish blogger, my hands are far from perfect! My cuticles deserve some extra TLC, so I’m hoping to get moisturized this winter and stay that way throughout 2014. I received this Burt’s Bees Honey & Grapeseed Hand Cream as a gift, and it’s the perfect product to help me begin taking care of my hands. It smells great, and is 99% natural!

Use an Eye Cream in My Skincare Routine

First Aid Beauty Eye CreamI’ve received a few eye creams as samples in the past, but I recently purchased this full size tube of First Aid Beauty 5 in 1 Eye Cream. I may be a bit young to start an anti-aging skincare routine, but I’ve noticed that I do have a lot of wrinkles under my eyes, and that is most likely due to dryness. I’m hoping this cream will help take care of that sensitive area that I’ve been neglecting.

Floss Teeth Daily

Reach Dental Floss

A beautiful smile starts with healthy teeth! I think many of us are guilty of not flossing daily, and that is going to stop. I’m grabbing this floss that I already have, Reach Cleanburst, and starting a new daily flossing routine!

Reorganize My Nail Polish Collection and Try the Untrieds

Julep & JulieG Nail PolishLast but not least, I want to tackle my nail polish collection! I’ve let it get all jumbled and disorganized the past several months, and I hope to go through it, weed out the polishes I don’t want, and try all of my untrieds. Above is a photo of just a few untried polishes I have laying around. Keep an eye out on my blog – you’ll probably see them soon!

SHARE YOUR BEAUTY RESOLUTIONS!

I hope you enjoyed hearing about my New Year’s Beauty Resolutions for 2014! Now it’s your turn! Share your resolutions with me in the comments, or use hashtag #NewYearsBeautyResolutions on social media so I can see your posts. If you’re a blogger, you can add your link to the inlinkz widget below. Let’s start a movement of positivity in the beauty community as we ring in 2014! Happy New Year!

Rite Aid Beauty Hauls | How I Save Money!

Happy Tuesday! I’ve recently scored some amazing beauty deals at Rite Aid, and they were too good not to share with all of you. Today I’ll be showing you two of my recent hauls, and sharing some tips and tricks on getting the most for your money. This post won’t contain any product reviews, but if you would like to hear more about any of these products, let me know in the comments!

HAUL #1

Rite Aid Beauty HaulI took advantage of three sales in this haul. Rimmel Cosmetics were buy one get one for 50% off, plus you got back $5 in UP Rewards if you spent $15. SinfulColors polishes had an amazing deal – simply buy one at $1.99 and get back $1.99 in UP Rewards. That deal could be redeemed twice. Finally, Olay Fresh Effects products were 30% off regular price.

Here is a breakdown of all the products I purchased with the regular price listed first, and the sale price listed second:

  • Rimmel Moisture Renew Lipstick – $6.99
  • Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder – $5.69
  • Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder – $5.69 – $2.84
  • Rimmel Soft Kohl Eyeliner – $3.99 – $1.99
  • SinfulColors Nail Polish – $1.99
  • SinfulColors Nail Polish – $1.99
  • Olay Fresh Effects S’Wipe Out – $6.49 – $4.54
  • Olay Fresh Effects S’Wipe Out – $6.49 – $4.54

Next, it’s time to use coupons! Here is what I used:

  • 3 $1 off Rimmel Products (they were each a bit different, so I could use them all in one transaction)
  • $3 off when you buy two Olay cleansers

Finally, it’s time to add up the totals!

  • Retail Value: $39.39
  • Sale Price: $30.57
  • What I Paid After Coupons: $27.28
  • UP Rewards Earned: $8.98

HAUL #2

Rite Aid Beauty HaulFor this haul, I was looking at two sales in particular. Maybellie Cosmetics were buy one get one half off, plus you got back $4 UP Rewards if you spent $12. NYC products were 30% off, plus you got back $2 UP Rewards if you spend $5. I also kept an eye out for special clearance stickers throughout the store!

Product Breakdown:

  • Maybelline Fit Me Stick Foundation – $8.99
  • Maybelline Dream Matte Powder – $8.39 – $4.19
  • NYC Cheek Glow – $2.99 – $2.09
  • NYC Color Wheel Mosaic Powder – $4.99 – $3.49
  • L’Oreal Single Eyeshadow – $4.89 – $2.44

Coupons Used:

  • 2 $1 off Maybelline Products (again, the coupons had different terms so I could use both at once)
  • $1 off any L’Oreal Eye Product

Totals:

  • Retail Value: $30.25
  • Sale Price: $21.20
  • What I Paid After Coupons and UP Rewards: $9.22
  • UP Rewards Earned: $6.00

As you can see, I only spent a total of $36.50 out of pocket for $69.64 worth of beauty products, and I still have $6 rewards for next time! The reason I take advantage of these sales is to stock up on products that I love, and try out some new things at a great price. I won’t have to buy any powder or makeup remover wipes for a long time now!

If you want to save money like I do, keep these simple steps in mind:

  • Always shop the sales
  • Add on coupons – you can use 1 manufacturers coupon and 1 store coupon on the same product if you have both
  • To earn UP Rewards, your total must meet the minimum amount before you add on coupons – for example, my Rimmel total in haul #1 was $17.51 before coupons, so even though I only spent $14.51 after coupons, I still qualified for the $5 UP Rewards

All in all, I hope you found this post helpful! I am not an extreme couponer, but I shop consciously and on a budget. It is so easy to save big at the drugstore, especially this time of year with clearance sales popping up. If you have any great savings tips, be sure to let me know what they are in the comments!

Manna Kadar Cosmetics | Beauty Simplified

Happy Friday! I recently had a great opportunity to join Birchbox and the brand Manna Kadar for a Google Hangout. We got to hear from Manna herself as she shared great information about her makeup line, and answered our beauty questions. As part of the experience, Birchbox sent me some of Manna’s products to try, and I wanted to review them for all of you! I’m completely obsessed with this line!

Manna Kadar Cosemtics! Manna Kadar Cosmetics!All of the products arrived in an adorable pink and white chevron pouch, along with a catalog to tell me a bit more about the brand. As I’ll explain more throughout this post, one of the reasons I love Manna Kadar products is because they are easy to use, labeled well, and really simplify my makeup routine. Plus, the products are amazing!

Sheer Glo Shimmer Lotion

Manna Kadar Cosmetics Sheer Glo 
Manna Kadar Sheer Glo

The Manna Kadar Sheer Glo Shimmer Lotion in Birchbox Love is a Birchbox Exclusive shade! This is an incandescent liquid that can be mixed with foundation or used alone to give the skin a glowy, illuminated look. I was a bit nervous to try this, but I’ve worn it a few times as a highlighter on the tops of my cheekbones, and I’m loving it! The product is a light pink shade, but blends right into the skin. What’s left is a beautiful glow that has a slight shimmer in the light! Perhaps soon I’ll be brave enough to mix it in with my own foundation!

Concealer Trio

Concealer Swatches 

Next up is the Concealer Trio in the shade Warm Front. These cream concealers have an amazing formula, and are extremely blendable. The lightest shade is almost invisible in the swatch photo above because that is how well in blends in with my skin tone! I love that this trio has different shades, so if my skin gets a bit darker in the summer I won’t have to purchase a brand new product. Manna really thinks of everything!

Eye and Lip Primer

Manna Kadar Cosmetics Eye and Lip Primer

If you’re looking for a great two-in-one product, the Eye and Lip Primer is for you! I have the shade Light Medium, and it is perfect for me! I haven’t tested this as a lip primer yet, but it is amazing as an eye primer. It goes on smoothly, and really makes eyeshadow pop. As with all Manna Kadar products, it is long lasting as well. I am really liking this so far!

Lip Gloss

Manna Kadar Cosmetics Lip Gloss

I’ll be honest, I was very nervous to try this next product! The Lip Gloss in Hot Lips is a bright pink color packed with lots of shimmer. I absolutely loved the color, but was afraid of how it would look on me. Turns out I actually like it! The sparkle isn’t overboard, but the gloss is very pigmented. It is a bit sticky, but I don’t mind that. I also can’t help thinking what a gorgeous nail polish Hot Lips would be!

Mascara

Last but not least is the Curling & Volume Mascara in Black. I actually decided not to open this mascara yet because I already own a Manna Kadar mascara that I love (pictured to the right in the second photo). In fact, that mascara made my October Favorites post! I’m sure this new mascara will be just amazing as the one I’m wearing now, but if you would like a full review sometime in the future let me know in the comments!

Makeup Look

Manna Kadar Makeup Look

I am using all of the products mentioned in this post for this makeup look! I feel like my skin looks great with just a touch of the concealer, and my lips look nice even though I’m not used to such a bright color. I went a bit fancy with my makeup here because I was headed to an event that you will hear about soon, and I’m glad I got to see the eyeshadow primer at work. I’m really happy with everything!

All in all, I am truly enjoying all of the products I’ve tried from Manna Kadar Cosmetics. This is definitely more of a high end makeup brand, but if you are looking for really high quality products, I think these are worth the splurge. Everything reviewed in this post retails from $19-34, and can be purchased on Birchbox’s website HERE and Manna Kadar’s website HERE. Have you tried any Manna Kadar products? Let me know in the comments!

The products in this post were provided for my unbiased review. All opinions are my own. See my Disclosure Policy for more information.

Ho-Ho-Holiday Giveaway!

HoHoHoliday

Happy Tuesday! It really is the season of giving, and I am celebrating with you by participating in another mega giveaway hosted by fellow blogger Beauty Pop Stop. First up, let me show you the eleven prizes you have a chance at winning. Then stay tuned for the entry form!

ADVENTURES IN POLISHLAND

theBalm Balm Voyage Palette

BEAUTY POP STOP 

Enkore Makeup Pro Ultra Brush Soap, Urban Decay 24/7 Liner in Crash, Pacifica Tuscan Blood Orange Mini Body Butter, Make Up Forever Aqua Shadow 28E, LUSH Ickle Baby Bot Bath Bomb

BEYOND BEAUTY LOUNGE

$25 Sephora Gift Card

COSMETIC SANCTUARY

Colors by Llarowe – Behead the Drama Queen, Zoya London Pixie Dust, 2oz Zoya Remove+

LOVE FOR LACQUER

Covergirl Nail Polishes, Covergirl Jumbo Balm Stain in Rose Twist, and Covergirl Flamed Out Mascara

MANICURATOR

Picture Polish Marine, MAC Eyeliner in Industrial

PRINCESS POLISH

Your choice of January Julep Maven Box AND one add-on polish

SET IN LACQUER

$25 Sephora e-Card

TANEJA’S BRIDE

Barielle Nude+Naughty 5-piece Set, Girly Bits A Stripper Has Been Sleeping in My Bed, Girly Bits Frazzle Fixer Cuticle Oil in Cupcake

THE LACQUEROLOGIST

OPI Take Ten Gift Set

WORK / PLAY / POLISH

Zoya Matte Velvet Jewels LE Gift Set Trio

ENTER HERE

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Mobile Friendly Link: http://bit.ly/15NXhdJ

Thank you as always for following Adventures in Polishland! It really means a lot to me, and I hope this giveaway is a special way to give back for the support I’ve received over this past year and a half. Please make sure to visit all of the other amazing bloggers who are participating in this giveaway as well! Have a wonderful holiday season!

November 2013 Favorites!

Happy Monday! I can’t believe it is already December, and November has come to a close. Time flies by this time of year, and I try to enjoy it as much as possible. Let me share with you the products I loved during the month of November!

NAIL POLISH

IMG_3296Michael Marcus Once You Go Matte – $15 [BUY]

I’ve been obsessed with this black matte nail polish! I’ve already worn it twice! I definitely suggest following up with a matte top coat to ensure it is long-lasting.

CLEANSER

IMG_3674

Murad Clarifying Cleanser – $26 full size [BUY]

I received this cleanser in a swap, and I am loving it! It’s gentle, clears my skin of impurities, and smells like lemon-lime soda. I’ll be sad when I finish this travel size!

MOISTURIZER

IMG_3673Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Repair Moisturizer – $65 [BUY]

I received this moisturizer in a PopSugar box, and it’s amazing! It smells like lemons, and is perfect as a day moisturizer since it is not greasy and quickly absorbs into the skin. I’ve been combatting my winter skin this month, and this moisturizer has really helped!

EYESHADOW

IMG_3676 Maybelline Color Tattoo in Just Beige – $8 [Drugstore!]

For a long time I’ve wanted a MAC Paint Pot just to cover up all of the veins on my eyelids. I didn’t want to splurge, so I was thrilled to get my hands on this Limited Edition Color Tattoo from Maybelline. It matches my skin tone well, and covers up the imperfections on my eyelids. Check your local drugstore to find it!

LIP PRODUCT

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Baby Lips in Peach Kiss – $4 [BUY]

I am a self-diagnosed Baby Lips addict! I love all Baby Lips, but in November I wore Peach Kiss a lot. It is a gorgeous nude shade with a hint of sparkle. It moisturizes my lips while adding a little bit of color. I love it!

PERFUME

IMG_3685Taylor Swift Enchanted Wonderstruck – $49.50 full size [BUY]

I’m not a Taylor Swift fan, but I tried out this perfume sample and I’m hooked! It smells amazing, and I made this sample last as long as possible. Enchanted Wonderstruck is a great scent for the fall, and I even added the full size to my Wish List!

FASHION

IMG_3690Guess Pumps – $29.99 [BUY SIMILAR]

I was invited to my school’s annual gala, and I desperately needed some simple, black pumps. I found these ones from Guess at Burlington Coat Factory for just $29.99 with the original retail value of $60! I was so surprised at how comfortable these heels were, and how easy they were to walk in. I meandered the streets of Manhattan with ease!

BOOK

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Allegiant by Veronica Roth – $6.99 [BUY]

I made time in my schedule this month to read Allegiant, the last book in the Divergent series. It is amazing! I won’t say too much, because I don’t want to spoil the story, but I did love it. I ordered the Kindle edition of the book so I could read it on my iPad and not wait for it to arrive in the mail. I highly recommend this book!

That’s it for my November favorites! I hope enjoyed this post, and be sure to let me know what your November favorites were in the comments!

Some of the products in this post were provided for my unbiased review. This post contains affiliate links. All opinions are my own. See my Disclosure Policy for more information. 

Happy HAUL-idays Giveaway!

HappyHAULidaysgiveawayimageHappy Friday! Today I’m excited to announce the first giveaway I’m participating in this holiday season. Send a big THANK YOU over to The Lacquerologist for putting this all together, and please take a moment to visit all of the amazing bloggers who have chipped in to make this giveaway possible. Good luck!

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