Tag: skincare

Gold Elements Golden Nail Kit Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

Happy Tuesday! Today I have a review of a luxurious nail care kit from the brand Gold Elements. I had never heard of this brand before, but was very excited when I got the opportunity to review the kit for all of you! If your hands need some extra pampering, this is the set for you! Let me show you the kit and everything that comes with it!

Gold Elements Golden Nail Kit ReviewI absolutely loved the packaging of the Golden Nail Kit! It came with a gift bag, catalog, and stunning box. This is definitely a great, pre-packaged gift whether you’re giving it to a friend or keeping it for yourself!

Gold Elements Golden Nail Kit Review Gold Elements Golden Nail Kit ReviewInside of the box is a velour holder containing four products:

  • Cuticle Oil – deeply soothes, moisturizes, and nourishes the cuticles and strengthens your nails
  • Buffing Block – encourages healthy growth by stimulating the blood circulation under your nails
  • Nail File – smoothes away rough nail edges and gives you the perfect nail shape
  • Hand and Nail Cream – protects and soothes your hands

The product packaging contains golden elements that were so bright and shiny I had a difficult time photographing them because they reflected so much light! It definitely gave the products a luminous glow from the moment I opened the box.

I was very impressed with the products in this kit. The Hand and Nail Cream and Cuticle Oil are both amazing. They have a nice, fresh scent that is not overpowering, and I saw an immediate difference with both. I especially love the Cuticle Oil, and I even used it on my feet for a pedicure. I highly recommend using the oil before bed so it can soak into your skin, and the cream during the day (it’s not greasy!). Of course, the Buffing Block and Nail File are essentials to any nail kit!

All in all, I think the Golden Nail Kit is a great, all-in-one nail care kit. It is on the expensive side at $49.99, but worth the splurge. It makes a great gift, and even comes perfectly packaged! You can purchase this kit on the Gold Elements website HERE. Be sure to check out the other products in the skincare collection!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

The Healing Tree Bamboo Charcoal Soap | Review & Giveaway

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

Happy Tuesday! Today I have another soap review for all of you. When I got the opportunity to review a charcoal soap from The Healing Tree, I was really excited. I’ve tried a couple other charcoal products in the past, and my skin has always loved it! Let me tell you more about this soap, and stay tuned to the end for a giveaway!

ABOUT THE SOAP

The Healing Tree Bamboo Charcoal Soap | Review & Giveaway The Healing Tree Bamboo Charcoal Soap | Review & GiveawayIt can be scary to use charcoal in your skincare products for the first time, but it’s truly an amazing and all-natural ingredient! Charcoal helps to clear your pores of dirt and oils to leave your skin clean both above and below the surface. This is especially helpful if you suffer from acne, eczema, or another skin condition, and charcoal will help to rejuvenate your skin completely. It allows your skin to moisturize itself naturally, without the need for excess oils. Plus, this soap is made with four all-natural ingredients: vegetable oil, water, glycerin, and bamboo charcoal. The Healing Tree brand does not test on animals, and uses no dyes or chemicals in it’s products. If you’re looking for a natural soap, this is definitely for you!

MY EXPERIENCE

I was a bit nervous to use this soap at first, because it does have a slight charcoal scent, and it does have a dark grey color when you’re washing with it. Thankfully, the color washes off easily with water, and I was surprised that it did not stain my bathtub at all. I used the soap in my shower, and one bar lasted for about three full weeks. While I didn’t like the charcoal scent, my skin absolutely loved this product! I can definitely see a difference in my skin – my pores are less visible, and my skin is overall more smooth and clear. My skin also feels softer, and I think it more moisturized overall. Taking the scent into consideration, I would rate this soap a 4 out of 5 stars.

GIVEAWAY

This giveaway is being hosted through Tomoson. Please note that while the widget does ask for your shipping information as part of your entry into the giveaway, all of your personal information will remain private. I cannot see any of the entries, and only the winner’s shipping information will be released to the company so they can mail you your prize. Please read all of the Terms & Conditions carefully, and feel free to ask me any questions.

All in all, I really like the Bamboo Charcoal Soap from The Healing Tree! It is a great soap if you are looking to rejuvenate your skin, and is perfect for the summer months when our pores can get clogged quite easily. You can purchase this soap on the company’s website for just $3.99 HERE. Talk about fabulous and affordable! Let me know what you think about this soap in the comments. Have you ever used a charcoal product before? If so, what did you think of it?

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Jet Away June | What’s in My “Liquids” Bag? (3-1-1 Rule)

Happy Monday, and welcome to the first official day of Jet Away June here at Adventures in Polishland! If you missed my Jet Away June announcement, you can read it HERE. I decided to start off this themed month with a fun take on the “What’s in My Travel Makeup Bag?” series that many beauty gurus do. I’ll be sure to show you my makeup bag at some point during Jet Away June, but first we’re starting with the liquids bag that we’ll all have when getting on an airplane.

Jet Away June | What's in My "Liquids" Bag? (3-1-1 Rule)The Transportation Security Administration (“TSA”) has what is known as the 3-1-1 rule. You can read the official rule on the TSA’s website HERE, but the basics of the rule is that all liquids in your carry-on luggage must be 3oz or less, put into 1 quart size plastic bag, and there is only 1 bag per person. You can put larger size liquids into your checked luggage, but if you’re like me and like to travel without checking a suitcase, you’ll need to follow the 3-1-1 rule carefully. Let me show you what I included in my liquids bag during my recent trip to Los Angeles!

HAIR CARE

Travel Size Hair Care

PRODUCTS:

  • Beauty Protector Protect & Shampoo [BUY]
  • Beauty Protector Protect & Condition [BUY]
  • Beauty Protector Protect & Detangle [BUY]

I’ve gotten the entire Beauty Protector line in my Birchboxes over the past several months, so I decided to take it along with me! I like to take the very basics with me when I travel, so all I needed was a shampoo, conditioner, and heat protectant.

Helpful TipPack products that are multi-use to cut down on the number of products you need to pack. For example, the Protect & Detangle product I used is a heat protectant, detangler, and frizz-fighter all in one. 

SKINCARE

Travel Skincare   PRODUCTS:

  • Paula’s Choice Resist Serum [BUY]
  • Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen [BUY]
  • Menza Daily Face Wash [BUY]
  • Fresh Soy Face Exfoliant [BUY]
  • Michael Todd Damascus Rose Moisturizer (not pictured – used a foil packet!) [BUY]

I used many of my travel size items from subscription boxes in my liquids bag! Many of these products are high end, so I was sure to pamper my skin when traveling. This is also a great opportunity to use up those darn foil packets!

Helpful Tip: Lotions are considered liquids! When in doubt, include the product in your liquids bag just to be safe. It will cut down on your time going through security. 

MAKEUP

Makeup Travel

PRODUCTS:

  • L’Oreal Lash Out Butterfly Mascara [BUY]
  • Maybelline The Elixir Lipgloss in Nude Illusion [BUY]

I keep my makeup routine very basic when I’m traveling. I’ll show you all of the makeup products I took with me on this trip when I share my travel makeup bag, but these are the only liquid products I took.

Helpful Tip: To cut down on the number of liquid makeup products, bring a stick foundation, cream concealer, and lip crayons. They’ll get the job done, and won’t fill up your liquids bag!

BODY CARE

Travel Body Care

PRODUCTS:

  • Herbal Essences Body Wash in Hello Hydration [BUY]
  • Bath & Bodyworks PocketBac Antibacterial Hand Gel in Rainforest Sugarcane [BUY]
  • Bee Kind Body Lotion [BUY]
  • Crest Toothpaste (not pictured) [BUY]

I always like to bring my own body wash and body lotion with me even if I’m staying in a hotel. It’s better to be prepared ahead of time even if you don’t end up using the products you brought with you!

Helpful Tip: If you’re traveling for a long period of time, consider bringing two body washes, i.e. That way you won’t have to repurchase anything during your trip. 

These are all of the items I took with me in my liquids bag! Of course, you can customize your bag to bring all of the liquids that fit into your own skincare and bath and body routines, but I hope this post helped you plan for your next vacation. Don’t forget to skim the official TSA 3-1-1 rule to make sure you’re ready for airport security. I also recommend bringing an extra quart sized bag (or two) just in case yours rips during the trip. Stay tuned for more Jet Away June posts, and let me know what you have in your liquids bag in the comments or by using the hashtag #JetAwayJune on social media!

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

UNi 100% Pure Moroccan Argan Oil for Hair & Skin Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

Happy Thursday! Today I have a review of Moroccan Argan Oil from the brand UNi. I’ve slowly but surely been testing out different oils, whether they be for the skin or hair, and decided to finally give the real deal a try. Argan oil gets a lot of hype in the beauty community, so I was really interested in how it compares to some of the other products I’ve tried thus far. Let me tell you a bit more about this product, and share my experience with you!

UNi 100% Pure Moroccan Argan OilThe UNi Argan Oil is sourced directly from Moroccan Argan Kernels found only in Morocco! This argan oil is considered 100% pure because it is cold pressed from unroasted kernels. The process sounds almost like brewing coffee from whole beans to me! Argan Oil is great for your skin and hair because it contains essential fatty acids The UNi brand is USDA Certified Organic, and is designed to rejuvenate and regenerate your skin and hair with its non-greasy and lightweight formula. The reason I’ve stayed away from oils in the past was because I was afraid it would make my already oily hair even worse, so I was excited and nervous to give this a try!

I’ve been using this argan oil on the ends of my hair after showering for the past few weeks. At first, I used about a dime size amount, and that was way too much. My hair definitely felt greasy and sticky, so now I’ve reduced the amount of oil to three, small drops. To apply the oil, rub your hands together to warm it up and then massage it into your hair or skin. While three drops felt like nothing, I noticed a big difference in my hair – it was shinier, easier to style, and appeared a bit fuller. Keep in mind that this product does have a slight nutty scent due to its organic nature.

All in all, I am so glad I gave this argan oil a try! I will continue to use it on my hair, and slowly use it on my skin as I begin my new skincare routine. This 2oz bottle retails for $35.99, but as I’m typing this the product is on sale for just $14.99 with free shipping on Amazon HERE. That is an amazing price for argan oil, so I definitely recommend grabbing it right away! Even if you miss this sale, a 2oz bottle is going to last a very long time as only a few drops are needed for each application. If you’ve been waiting to try argan oil, the UNi brand is a great place to start!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Products I’ve Used Up #3

Happy Sunday! It’s time for another round of products I’ve used up where I share mini reviews about all of the different products I’ve used the last couple months. I actually finished these products up a few weeks ago, but am just now getting around to posting this entry. That means another one is probably not too far behind. Nonetheless, let me share my empties with you!

 

NAIL CARE

Nail Care Empties

  • CVS Strengthening Polish Remover – I am always going through nail polish remover! This is the purple formula that you can find at the drugstore. It was alright, but I’ll be going back to normal acetone. That stuff really works!
  • Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear in Rockstar Pink – I went to use one of my all-time favorite nail polishes just to discover it was all dried up! What a bummer! I used this so much during my senior year of college that my suitemates knew it was my signature polish. At some point I’ll be repurchasing this. [BUY]

HAIR CARE

Hair Care Empties

  • L’Oreal Triple Resist Reinforcing Shampoo – I really love this line from L’Oreal. It’s super affordable, and my hair reacts well to it. If you are looking for a good shampoo from the drugstore, I highly recommend this line.
  • Macadamia Healing Oil Treatment – If you’ve been reading Adventures in Polishland for a while, you know I love this hair oil! I’ve repurchased it again, so I’m currently working on my third bottle. I know this is expensive, so I always buy it when I get a percent off coupon from CVS! [BUY]

MAKEUP AND MAKEUP REMOVER

Makeup Empties

  • Benefit Gimme Brow in Light/Medium – I absolutely love this eyebrow gel! It fills in your brows while keeping them groomed. I used it on days where I wanted just a bit of color on my brows. I wish it wasn’t so expensive or I would repurchase it for sure. [BUY]
  • Urban Decay De Slick Setting Spray – You can tell it took me a long time to use up my De Slick setting spray because this is the old packaging! It lasted me nearly a year, and I’ve already repurchased the All Nighter version. I definitely recommend these setting sprays! [BUY]
  • Simple Cleansing Wipes – I haven’t been using makeup remover wipes as much, but I did go through another pack of Simple wipes. They’re not my favorite, but they get the job done! [BUY]
  • Almay Lash Care Eye Makeup Remover Pads – I loved these pads! They do an excellent job of removing that stubborn mascara, and they’re very gentle. I would definitely consider repurchasing these in the future. [BUY] 

SKINCARE 

Skincare Empties

  • Bioré Deep Cleansing Pore Strips – These strips are amazing! I try to use them once per week to clean out my pores. I do recommend them, but read all of the instructions before use so you don’t damage your skin. I’m working on a new box now! [BUY]
  • Olay Fresh Effects Shine, Shine Go Away Cleanser – I got this free sample of this cleanser and I did like it, but wasn’t amazed by it. I didn’t see a huge difference in my skin when I used it, so I don’t think I’ll repurchase it. I do like the other products in the Olay Fresh Effects line, though! [BUY]

BODY CARE

Body Care Empties

  • CVS Hand Sanitizer – I always keep a small hand sanitizer in my purse or school bag. You never know when you’re going to need to clean your hands on the go!
  • Bath & Bodyworks Hand Sanitizer in Mango Paradise – I also used up the sanitizer that lives on my desk! I got this last year for free with a coupon at Bath & Bodyworks. It did smell nice, but I prefer unscented sanitizer. For that reason, I’m not going to repurchase it.
  • Lady Gage Fame Perfume Sample – I absolutely love Lady Gaga’s perfume! It smells amazing, and I’ve used up all the samples of it that I’ve gotten with Sephora orders. At some point I’ll probably purchase the full size. I highly recommend it! [BUY]
  • Philosophy Vanilla Birthday Cake Body Wash – I splurged on some Philosophy body wash a few months ago, and I’m glad I did! This one smells just like vanilla cake, and is a great treat. I would get it again during a sale event, but it’s a little expensive for every day. [BUY]
  • Dove Go Fresh Deodorant in Revive – I’ve used Dove deodorants for a long time since they are affordable and worked well for me. However, I think my body has become used to it, so I’m on the hunt for a great new deodorant. Let me know your favorite in the comments! [BUY]

And those are all of my empties for my third Products I’ve Used Up post! Please let me know what products you’ve recently used up that you are going to repurchase in the comments!

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

Anti-Aging 101 with Duane Reade and RoC Brand Eye Care!

 I am a member of the Collective Bias®  Social Fabric® Community.  This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper amplification for Collective Bias and its advertiser. #CollectiveBias

Happy Friday! Earlier this month I told you all about some fun events that were happening with Duane Reade and RoC Brand Eye Care. I headed to the #Eyes4NYC event last week, where I learned a ton of great information about anti-aging. I can’t wait to share all of the tips and tricks with you!

Anti-Aging 101 with Duane Reade and RoC Brand Eye Care | Adventures in Polishland

At the #Eyes4NYC event, we had the opportunity to hear from dermatologist Dr. Debra Jaliman and Anna Prilutsky from Johnson & Johnson. They answered all of our anti-aging questions, and I couldn’t believe all the great information I learned in just an hour!

#Eyes4NYC #shop #cbias
Dr. Debra Jaliman and Anna Prilutsky answer our questions!

The focus of the event was retinol – how to use it, how to buy it, etc. I always thought that I was too young to use retinol, since I’m only 24, but it turns out you’re never too young (or too old!) to start using anti-aging products. Dr. Jaliman suggests that retinol newbies begin with an every-other-night application system, and the RoC Correction Sensitive Eye Cream is a great product to use. Also, make sure you don’t skimp out on that sunscreen, even in the rain! Using an SPF of 30 or higher will protect your skin while using retinol products, and prevent any further aging. 

#Eyes4NYC #shop #cbiasWe also got to Walk the Aisle with Anna, who shared all about purchasing anti-aging products. It’s very important to read the packaging, and a product’s ingredients. For example, just because a product has “Retinol” in the name does not mean it is a listed ingredient – be sure to check the ingredients list! Similarly, if a brand writes that a product is “clinically proven” that means it spent the money to do a clinical trial. Of course, your best bet is always to buy products from RoC! They contain the proper ingredients, and are even packaged perfectly. Because retinol is light and oxygen sensitive, the best packaging is a tube (not a jar).

#Eyes4NYC #shop #cbias

All in all, I had an amazing time at the #Eyes4NYC event! I’ve started using RoC anti-aging products now, and I’m loving them so far. I’ll start seeing results in four weeks, so let me know if you’d like an update on my experience at some point. Until then, make sure you stop by your local Duane Reade and pick up some RoC Brand anti-aging products. You’ll find them in the skincare aisle – in the photo above, it’s the gold packaging!  Be sure to let me know what you use for anti-aging, and if you’ll be switching to RoC after learning more. I sure did!

P.S. I learned so much from this event, that it just won’t fit into this one blog post! Be sure to check out my Facebook for more photos and my Twitter for even more tips and tricks!

March 2014 Favorites!

Happy Friday! April is now upon us, and that means it’s time to share my March favorites with all of you. Let’s jump right into it!

NAIL POLISH

Zoya – Dot Zoya Dot [REVIEW] [BUY]

Dot is so beautiful! I just love the pastel pink shade. It’s subdued enough to be professional, but quite girly at the same time. I’ve been wearing it for over a week now!

CoverGirl – Sapphire FlareCoverGirl Sapphire Flare [REVIEW] [BUY]

Once upon a time, I avoided dark nails like the plague. Now, I’m obsessed with navy nails! I’ve worn Sapphire Flare several times since I got it, and twice in the month of March. Plus, the formula is flawless. You need this in your collection!

SKINCARE

Sibu Beauty | Sea Buckthorn Balancing Facial CleanserSibu Beauty Sea Buckthorn Balancing Facial Cleanser [REVIEW] [BUY]

I know I said I wasn’t going to use this until I used up the other cleansers in my collection, but I can’t put it away! It’s the perfect all-in-one product, and makes my skin happy. I definitely see a second bottle in my future when this one is empty.

Amara Organics Vitamin C Serum Review | Adventures in PolishlandAmara Organics Vitamin C Serum [REVIEW] [BUY]

I’m also applying this serum religiously! I’m onto my third week of use now, and all signs of breakouts are gone. My skin is just drinking up this magical potion!

LIP COLORBaby Lips – Just Peachy

Baby Lips in Just Peachy [BUY]

Surprise! I added a new Baby Lips to my collection. By now I have too many, but this is my first in the Dr Rescue line, and I’m loving it. It has the same great application and hint of color as the other Baby Lips products, but it is medicated to help your dry lips out even more.

FOOD

Cadbury Mini Eggs Cadbury Mini Eggs

It is that magical time of year when the Cadbury Mini Eggs appear at the store. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw this 18oz bag. Mini eggs are definitely my favorite candy of all time, and I have to get my fill this time of year. SO. GOOD.

BOOK

Something Real by Heather Demetrios Something Real by Heather Demetrios [REVIEW] [BUY]

I’ve been making an effort in my life to make time for reading outside of school this month, and picked up Something Real at my local Barnes & Noble. It is an amazing story about a girl whose family is the subject of a reality TV show. You can read more by checking out my review on Goodreads (linked above).

That wraps up my favorites for the month of March! Please feel free to share what you’re loving in the comments, or use hashtag #PolishlandFaves on social media.

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

Amara Organics Vitamin C Serum Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

Happy Tuesday! Today I’m excited to bring you another skincare review! I recently had the opportunity to test out a Vitamin C Serum from the brand Amara Organics. While I’ve tried serum samples in the past, this is the first serum that I’ve used on a regular basis. Let me tell you more about the product and share my experience with you!

Amara Organics Vitamin C Serum Review | Adventures in Polishland
Amara Organics Vitamin C Serum Review | Adventures in Polishland

ABOUT THIS PRODUCT

This Vitamin C Serum from Amara Organics is 98% naturally derived and 72% organic. It has many uses, including anti-aging. Even though I’m in my early twenties, my skin is quite dehydrated and until the last year I hadn’t taken great care of it. It’s never too early to care for you skin!

Here are the product’s exact claims:

“Our Vitamin C Serum replenishes your skin’s vitamin C levels to give you these benefits:

  • Increases the production of collagen to bring back skin’s natural elasticity and counteract fine lines and wrinkles 
  • Powerful antioxidant properties neutralize free radicals to reverse damage caused by the sun, pollutants, and cigarette smoke 
  • Protects your skin from UV damage such as age spots, discoloration, and fine lines 
  • Improves skin texture to give you a smoother, brighter complexion 
  • Combined with Vitamin E and Hyaluronic Acid for extra powerful anti-aging effects” 

MY EXPERIENCE

I’ve been using this serum on a daily basis for about two weeks now, and I can already see positive changes with my skin! The serum is clear and unscented, and I apply a few drops to clean, dry skin before moisturizing. The first change my skin experienced is actually not part of the product’s description – my breakouts cleared up! Right before trying this serum, I had acne all along my jawline, but now it’s almost completely gone!

My skin also appears to be less dehydrated since I started using this serum. I’ve never felt like I had “glowy” skin, but I find that my skin looks much healthier since I started using this serum. My moisturizer seems to sink in a lot faster as well. I can’t wait to continue using this serum, since the full effects are supposed to show at the 90 day mark. I will be sure to let you know of any long-term changes on my social media profiles!

WHERE TO BUY

You can purchase this Vitamin C Serum from Amara Organics on Amazon HERE. As I write this post, a 1oz bottle is on sale for $21.95. I think it is worth every penny, especially since only a few drops are needed for each use. Plus, investing in great skincare is always worth in it my opinion. You can also visit the Amara Organics website HERE for more information.

Have you ever tested a Vitamin C serum? If so, let me know how you like it in the comments!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Sibu Beauty Sea Buckthorn Balancing Facial Cleanser Review

Happy Thursday! Today I’m excited to bring you the first skincare review on Adventures in Polishland. I was contacted by Sibu Beauty, and asked if I wanted to test out the brand’s Sea Buckthorn Balancing Facial Cleanser. When I saw that Sibu is an all natural brand dedicated to ethical beauty, I knew I had to give it a try. Let me show you the cleanser I tried, and tell you a bit more about Sibu!

Sibu Beauty | Sea Buckthorn Balancing Facial Cleanser

ABOUT THIS PRODUCT 

I decided to share with you the direct language from Sibu’s website so you can get the full idea of what the Sea Buckthorn Balancing Facial Cleanser is all about. My own personal experience is more helpful when you know the product’s exact claims!

“Deep yet gentle cleansing is the foundation of effective facial care at every age. This all-natural balancing facial cleanser gently removes dirt, impurities and make-up while maintaining a healthy balance in your skin without compromising its natural protective nutrients. This lightly exfoliating facial cleanser will leave your face fresh, clean, and perfectly balanced. Your skin will look and feel radiant.

  • Leaves skin looking and feeling radiant and refreshed
  • Removes excess oil and impurities
  • Contains micro-particles for a gentle exfoliation
  • Great for removing make-up
  • Non-foaming gel formula for all skin types

This all-natural balancing facial cleanser gently removes dirt, impurities and make-up while maintaining a healthy balance in your skin without compromising its natural protective nutrients.” 

MY EXPERIENCE

I’ve been using this cleanser both morning and evening for a couple weeks now, and I am beyond happy with it! I typically use 1-2 pumps of the product, and apply as directed by working it into a lather in my moistened hands, and gently massaging it over my face. This product is definitely very gentle, and even with the exfoliating beads my skin does not feel tight or raw after I use it. My skin is usually left a bit red after cleansing, so it’s amazing that it just appears clear after using this cleanser.

I am also impressed with how well it removes my makeup at night. Even my stubborn mascara comes off with this cleanser! I don’t have any need for makeup remover wipes when I’m using this Sibu cleanser. Deep yet gentle cleansing is the foundation of effective facial care at every age. This all-natural balancing facial cleanser gently removes dirt, impurities and make-up while maintaining a healthy balance in your skin without compromising its natural protective nutrients. This lightly exfoliating facial cleanser will leave your face fresh, clean, and perfectly balanced. Your skin will look and feel radiant.  Leaves skin looking and feeling radiant and refreshed Removes excess oil and impurities Contains micro-particles for a gentle exfoliation Great for removing make-up Non-foaming gel formula for all skin types This all-natural balancing facial cleanser gently removes dirt, impurities and make-up while maintaining a healthy balance in your skin without compromising its natural protective nutrients.

As for the scent, it is very light and a bit citrusy. I barely notice it, and I don’t think it is bothersome at all. My only complaint with the product is in the packaging – because the bottle is opaque, I won’t be able to see how much is left. Other than that, I’m loving this cleanser! My skin feels clear and balanced, and I noticed that my breakouts decreased when I began using it. I also love that it exfoliates and cleanses at the same time, as that cuts a step out of my skincare routine and saves money. I think it lives up to the hype, and I plan on making this my daily cleanser as soon as I finish up the others in my stash.

WHERE TO BUY

You can purchase the Sea Buckthorn Balancing Facial Cleanser directly from the Sibu Beauty website HERE. It retails for $17.95 for a 4oz bottle. While that is a bit more than I typically spend on my skincare products, I think it is 100% worth it. Since the product is all natural, cruelty free, and GMO free, I don’t mind spending a bit more, especially since my skin loves it. I am also thinking about trying other products in this line, so please let me know if you’ve tried any Sibu Beauty products and what you think of them in the comments.

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

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!

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