As you well know, the first step to recovery is admitting you have a problem. So here goes: I’m addicted to lip gloss. Much like Tori, I blame essiebutton. I was never too keen on gloss but eventually something clicked and I’ll never look back. Spring and summer are the harbingers of fresh makeup, and lip gloss fits that bill. Bold, matte lips are lovely but pose the risk of seeming over-done. Not to mention they can be tricky to maintain. Just a touch of lip gloss adds color and shine while remaining convenient. After my epiphany, I've found a few favorites. Give these a go if you're a little hesitant of gloss.

ALMAY COLOR + CARE LIQUID LIP BALM in 700 Cantaloupe Crème
     Perhaps the most subtle of this trio, this is an easy finish to any look. The pastel coral subtly warms the tone of your lips which is lovely with a bit of a tan. This does feel more like a balm than a stereotypical gloss. No signs of stickiness here, just a respectable dose of moisture. The pigmentation is sheer, so nice for more casual days.

MILANI BRILLIANT SHINE GLOSS in Sweet Grapefruit and Coral Crush
     This offering is very much classed as a traditional lip gloss – candy-scented and quite sticky. It doesn’t disappoint in terms of shine, though. I also find that the tackiness fades after an hour’s wear or so. While the color payoff isn’t equal to a liquid lipstick they aren’t incredibly sheer. Sweet Grapefruit adds a pretty pink flush to the lips, while Coral Crush is a good option for those a little timid of orange.

NYX BUTTER GLOSS in Peaches and Cream and Strawberry Shortcake
      This duo is another set of shades perfectly suited for the season. These are essentially just an amped up version of the Almay balm/gloss hybrid. They offer more sheen and are nearly on par with a lipstick. These fade gracefully and won’t feather or bleed.


xx
Rachel

I did a post a while back on my fake tanning routine, and now I've given this tan a run through and feel like I can properly review it for you. So here goes nothing.

I originally picked it up because it said "Compare to St. Tropez" on the bottle, and the packaging is really nice. I swear to God I'm a marketer's dream (which is ironic since that's what I'm studying... anyway). Last summer I raved about Banana Boat's Sunless Tanning Spray, but I think that Equate might take the place as far as holy grail status goes.

This applies with a tinge of color which I love because it makes it easier to see spots you've been over, and it makes it easier to see where you still need to rub product in (if I didn't mention it in my routine, I spray, rub in, and repeat until I think I've got a good coverage going). It's a green based tan (very similar to St. Tropez and other high end brands) so you don't look orange at all, which is obviously a huge plus. I've found it applies quite well as a face tan too, when first sprayed into hands and then put onto the face. *Disclaimer: This is not formulated to be a face tanner. However, I do not have sensitive skin and have done this with all my other spray tans as well. Take that advice with a grain of salt.* Within the first two applications, I haven't noticed a whole lot of streaking or patchy-ness. A few here and there in the usual trouble spots (knees, elbows, ankles) but this is quickly remedied with a quick spot spray and some lotion. For now, I don't think I'll go much darker than what the tan has shown to be now (2 applications, 3 days apart) as it develops to be quite dark even after one application. Or maybe that's just me with my ghost skin...

Downfalls of this tan... First off: it's a messy application. I would definitely advise you to use this in the bath tub/shower area so you can just rinse it down after because it will get everywhere. Secondly, you will definitely smell like fake tan - for at least 48 hours. I've found that that's the stretch time, after showering a second time after application I don't notice it anymore.

Other than that, I don't have any complaints about this tan. It's hard out here for a girl like me (aka pale and always streaking with any other tan I've tried) to find a good fake tan. Now that I've got two on rotation, I'd say I'm in pretty good shape for the upcoming seasons.

Have you tried this tan? What did you think?

xx

Tessa

     First off, apologies for the late post today everyone! It's been one of those days where I barely venture out of bed, because I have priorities (Sherlock and a smattering of other programs). Anywho, the past couple of months I've accumulated a few samples of products so I figured I'd share my initial thoughts.

OLE HENRIKSEN TOTAL TRUTH EYE CREAM SPF 15
     I believe I mentioned this on my skincare wishlist back in January, and I picked up a sample soon after. I was quite drawn to the idea of an eye cream with sun protection. Dedicated SPFs can tend to be a little too heavy for under the eyes so this is a nice alternative. The girl who fixed my sample at Sephora gave me a very generous amount, so I still haven't been forced to purchase the full size. However once it does run out I'll definitely be off to pick it up. This is hydrating enough for this horrendous cold we're experiencing, but is in no way greasy. In fact, it has almost a priming texture that makes applying makeup over top a breeze. No doubt the sun protection will be much appreciated once it does warm up as well.

ORIGINS CLEAR IMPROVEMENT MASK
    This product has pretty much reached cult status, so when Sephora offered it as a 100 point perk a while back I sprung at the chance to try it. Though my skin is typically normal I do experience the odd breakout. During these times I always turn to masks such as this to draw out impurities and keep things in check. After using this a few times, I'd have to say I think I'm underwhelmed. It does seem to calm any blemishes slightly - but I have products I prefer. Something slightly more clay based seems to work better for the type of spots I have to deal with. I will definitely use up the tube, so my opinion may change, but for now I'm sticking to some other tried & true options.

KATE SOMERVILLE EXFOLIKATE
     Surprise! Another skincare sample. Again, this was a part of a 500 point perk back in November or December. While the kit included Somerville's Daily Detox Cleanser and Oil Free Moisturizer, this is easily my favorite of the bunch. Usually I steer clear of manual exfoliants as I find they can be much too harsh for my skin. However sometimes I just *need* their help. Plus, this product also boasts chemical exfoliating ingredients. My skin has been ridiculously dry, and this always manages to lift it and impart some glow. The texture of my skin post application is much improved and seems more willing to gain moisture. The product comes out an odd green color, and smelling vaguely of cinnamon. It's an invigorating treatment, and one I would seriously consider repurchasing come next year's cold weather.

That's all for me folks!

xx
Rachel

   Seeing as today is the end of the Winter Olympics, I thought I’d write my own Closing Ceremony for a few products I’ve trialed lately!

I first heard of this brand from Rachel. I was looking for a pretty cheap serum that wouldn't lack in quality. I went to my closest Walgreens to check it out and found that there about six different serums in the range. I battled for probably thirty minutes on which one to choose and ended up with the Hydration serum. I chose this one because I had watched a video by Stephanie (SoothingSista on YouTube) and she had mentioned that Jojoba oil closely mimics the skins natural oils. That being said, it absorbs into the skin a lot easier than other oils.

I've used this product every single night since I purchased it probably three months ago and I've used up maybe a third of the bottle. After I double cleanse and tone, I'll apply this serum. There have been a couple of days that I've found myself reaching for it in the morning. This winter seems to be especially hard on my skin but I found that if I put this on in the morning before my moisturizer and just let it set a bit, it doesn't make my skin look oily or greasy once I've put my makeup on. I do have extremely dry skin though, so I wouldn't recommend it if you had combination skin.

This product just really showed me how dehydrated my skin really was. I always knew my skin was dry but this serum definitely solved the issue of dehydration (they're two different things, y'all). It definitely doesn't feel greasy when I put it on, which was my main concern, and it absorbs rather quickly. I noticed a huge difference the first time I used it, I couldn't believe how soft my skin was when I woke up. When the weather is a bit harsher, I use a couple of more pumps, but in all, this is definitely a product I will be repurchasing. I don't even know what I would have done this winter without it.

   
     Lip gloss and I never really got along. It’s sticky, messy, and super girly – like, how am I supposed to enjoy that? However, a few new releases intrigued me and I gave them a shot. Both Maybelline ($6.99) and L’Oreal  ($7.99) brought out eerily similar products (at least what I’ve gathered from the marketing), so naturally I have to give you guys the rundown on what I think.

Another apology for my scrub-like appearance. And also a huge apology to Rumble for not having this up way earlier!


xx
Tessa

   
     Overall, I would highly recommend this mascara. The formula would be on-point even sans the mechanical brush. At just under $8, it's fairly in line with most drugstore brands' price points. I fully intend on exploring the brand further, especially the "Sometimes You Win, Sometimes You Rouge" cream blushes. Well done Drew, well done.

See ya dudes next week!

xx
Rachel

After a long hiatus from subscription boxes, I'm back with a new bag from Ipsy. At one point I was subscribed to both Ipsy and Birchbox, and after about three months on each I unsubscribed from both. After a lot of thinking, and a lot of Eleventh Gorgeous watching, I renewed my subscription to Ipsy. Each bag never failed to impress me, so it was a no-brainer to go back. And this month's bag was no exception. I received six products this month, and though I can't give you a full review on each, I know I'll get good use out of all of them.

  Alrightay, I know both Tori and I have mentioned this foundation several times, but the day has come for a proper review. There are loads of opinions available on this product as it was quite hyped after its initial launch. However, at $55 for the standard 30ml, I think the hype should be justified.

     With most everyone after a luminous, radiant complexion highlighters seem to have become a staple in most people's kits. I'm definitely in the cream/liquid camp in terms of preference. Be it eye shadow, blush, or base I find that a creamier consistency gives a nicer finish and is easier to work with. Yet this Hard Candy Blush Crush Baked Blush (an unnecessary mouthful, in my opinion) in Honeymoon has altered my mindset slightly.

     Though marketed as a blush, I find this to be much more suitable as a highlight. Granted I do have a skin tone comparable to Casper. Still, the pale peachy tone and the strong iridescence lend themselves to it. The lavender marbled through the blush also makes this a great shade for you cool undertoned ladies out there (like moi). Sadly I fear that anyone with a warmer complexion may end up looking a wee bit ashy and should opt for something more gold-based. Plus, unless you have flawless skin with a complete absence of pores, I would steer clear of the apples of the cheeks if you wish to avoid accentuated pores. So as a blush, I find it a little useless.

     That's the end of the con list my friends. Utilized to achieve said glowing skin, I can rely on this. I sometimes find that baked powders can be just that - a bit powdery and/or chalky. However, this is fairly soft and not messy in the slightest. Applied to the tops of my cheekbones, the bridge of my nose, and my cupid's bow it creates a subtle shine that could never come off as glittery.

     As opposed to a cream highlight, this powder boasts a solid lasting power. It is so finely milled that the powder formula doesn't irk me at all. There is a fair amount of product in the compact, and it is definitely affordable at only $7. Especially since I find it quite difficult to find a good highlighter in the drugstore. There are a few other shades in this range which all seem to have a strong sheen, so have a gander and see if there's a shade to suit you.

Au revoir!

xx
Rachel

So this week's post is a bit of a two-in-one: a first impressions along with a mini review of Clinique's Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm. In my last post I mentioned how I went on a bit of a skincare rampage courtesy of Caroline Hiron's blog, so this is on her recommendation. My normal cleansing balm I have talked about before in my skincare routine post here. I purchased this one, after weeks of debating, for $28.50 at Sephora. Which in my opinion is well worth it.

This balm is oil based, so it feels a little bit greasy when you apply it but it doesn't leave your skin feeling greasy at all. It removed all of my make up with ease, even my eye make up and mascara without much hassel. Which is huge for me, as I am a mascara fiend and tend to pack it on. One thing I noticed when putting it on my eyes was it felt kind of gritty when it was removing my make up, I'm still not sure if this was the texture of my mascara coming off or if it was the cleanser itself. After using this, I still followed up with a second cleanse, solely out of habit and per recommendation of Caroline, though I probably didn't need to because I had no make up residue on my second cleanse like I normally do.

On to packaging and such. I love the fact that this comes in a tub. I do like the pump of my Liz Earle cleansing balm, but it was always hard to tell how much I needed and I somehow always ended up with excess or needing multiple pumps if I used smaller amounts. With the tub however, you are able to easily control how much you get out and you need the smallest amounts. Which brings me to my next point, I know nearly $30 for a cleanser is a steep price tag, but you need so little and it comes in a giant tub that's going to last you a long time, even if you use it everyday (if you would like I can update you on how long this one lasts me!).

Based solely on my first use of this, I think I would definitely repurchase this product. I know the blog name is Five Broke Girls, and here I am telling you that I would spend $30 on a cleansing balm, but in all honesty, anything higher end I buy, I put a lot of thought behind & do my research. And I'm definitely willing to spend the extra dollars on my skin care to have good skin, because if your skin is in balance, then you can sort of cheat your way on make up (less foundation, concealer!).

Well, that's it for me this week. I'll talk to you next week, darlings!

xx
Tessa

So I've had both of these masks for a while now and thought it was about time I shared my opinions with you guys on both, and put them up against each other just for the heck of it.

First up is AVON's Clearskin Pore Penetrating Black Mineral Mask. This caught my attention in an AVON book because I had been looking to try Origins's Clear Improvement Charcoal Mask for a while, but didn't want to drop the $24 for it. Upon first impressions, the packaging design isn't my favorite. I know, I know, it's not about the packaging but rather the product inside, but being an advertising major it's part of my job to critique packaging (or so I like to think). Anyway, on to the mask. The active ingredient in it is salicylic acid, and a very small concentration of it at only 0.5%. I have found that other treatments have worked better for my skin as far as skin clearing so I was a little skeptical of how it would work. After a few uses, I noticed that it was helping the few spots I had — they were getting smaller and looked less red and irritated. It also helped to make my pores shrink which is always a huge plus for me. One tip I have about using this: do not leave it on for longer than it says. The first time I used this I lost track of time and left it on for longer than the recommended 15 minutes and my skin was red and irritated. It was all clear by the next morning but slightly terrifying to remove a mask to find your skin bright red. Eek. My favorite feature of this mask was that it applies as a dark grey color, but dries as a light grey so you can see when all sections of your face are dry, no guess work here. This mask retails for $6.99 on AVON's website.

The other mask I've been rotating in my routine is Formula 10.0.6's Pores Be Pure Skin-Clarifying Mud Mask with Strawberry and Yarrow. This mask claims on it's front packaging: "Berry boosters go straight to work on clogged pores, strawberry and rosemary eliminate impurities, while yarrow clarifies skin for instant complexion perfection." I'll admit I adored this mask at first. Then during a late night skin care evaluation inspired by Caroline Herrons from BeautyMouth.com, I discovered that this little gem contains mineral oil (cue cries and a screech of horror). Now, I haven't always been super strict about my skin care and the ingredients, but I have started caring a bit more. That being said, I do still use this, just not nearly as often as I did when I first purchased it. The packaging of this mask is A+, I don't know if it's just because it's pink or I really enjoy the font choice or both. In either case, it's great. As far as the actual mask goes, I didn't notice huge differences in my skin on weeks when I did or didn't use it, though it does smell really nice. This mask retails for $5.99 at Ulta.

Now for the showdown. If I had to choose one mask to repurchase, it would be the AVON mask without a doubt, even though it's more expensive for less product, not using mineral oil on my skin is a huge thing to me. That was a big factor for me, as well as I felt that my skin reacted better to the AVON formulation over Formula 10.0.6's.

xx
Tessa

As you know from a post or so ago, I wasn't too psyched to get this in my last Birchbox. That being said, I've had a chance to use it and I've had my ideas changed. I was worried that it would dry my sensitive skin out like everything else does. It seriously does not matter if it's for sensitive skin or not, it always will dry my skin out. Anywho, I left this stuff on for roughly ten minutes and the number one thing I noticed was smaller pores. I am like a pore junky, anything to help minimize pores, I want it. So having this product actually make me notice a difference was huge.

Pros:
Obvi minimized pores!
Cons:
I still hated the smell, it really doesn't smell like green apples and that's a big disappointment.
It did dry my skin out a bit. It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be though, so it was alright.

Verdict: I am actually undecided as to whether I will purchase the full size of this product. While I did love that it minimized my pores, I'm not sure it did enough in other areas to make me want it too badly.

Until next week!
xxTori

 
      Recently, there's been a new generation of liquid lipsticks cropping up in several brands's lines. No longer are we restricted to the standard bullet lipstick - though that isn't going anywhere. Modern lip lacquers are currently making the rounds. Now after that terribly dramatic intro (and garishly punny title), I thought I'd share my thoughts on a few varieties I've tried and tested.


RIMMEL LONDON SHOWOFF LIP LACQUER | 401 AURORA ($4.99)

     If the name of this shade alone doesn't tempt you to buy this, you're a better woman than I. Watching a copious amount of British YouTubers (as I do) it was basically inevitable that I pick one up. Marketed as "Apocalips" lip lacquers in the UK, I'd heard all about these lil' gems. Tessa and I hunted them down once we caught wind of their release in the states. As of now, they're exclusive to Walgreens.  I'm quite the fan of Rimmel's Kate Moss matte lipstick line, so I was pleased when these had the same fruity scent (the shade range seems to be fairly similar as well). As for functionality, they're soft on the lips and don't bleed or feather. It's a nice hybrid between a matte and gloss finish, while still delivering a solid color payoff. I also find them to be longer wearing than a standard lipstick, which is much appreciated through the work day. The only major con I've found with the Showoff lacquers is I feel like I need to use a lip brush to apply it, at least in this shade. The doe-foot applicator holds a little well of product, which can apply too much to the lips if you're not careful. This, coupled with my ineptitude, is most likely why I use a brush. Still, once I've applied a base layer touch-ups are brush-free. Overall, these are on point and you can consider this me enabling you to buy them. Go.

NYX XTREME LIP CREAM | 05 BONFIRE ($5.99)

NYX SOFT MATTE LIP CREAM | 06 ISTANBUL ($5.99)


     While the other two I've shared with you are quite glossy, this NYX version is totally matte. The concept is a little different from anything else I've tried. It applies like a silky lip gloss but dries without any shine whatsoever. Naturally, the matte finish helps it to be longer wearing. On the other hand, it is slightly drying on the lips; but that can be easily remedied with a little lip balm applied first. I'm actually not the biggest fan of this shade. I do have my eye on both Addis Ababa (a bright fuschia) and Monte Carlo (a deep red). Regardless, I think the unique consistency is worth a gander if you like a matte lip.

     Alrighty dudes, that's it for me today. See you again tomorrow for my normally scheduled post!

xx
Rachel

So, I suck and apparently forgot what I had planned for you guys. Sooooo, you're going to get two posts in one! 

   
     This year, I've really been getting into skincare and being more conscious about what I'm putting on my skin. There are plenty of scary articles out there explaining why "x" is toxic or what terrible effects "y" will have on your skin.  That shit can get overwhelming, especially with all the convoluted names that tend to litter the ingredient list. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find such a simple product at Walgreens. Yep, no bank account-crippling trip to Whole Foods needed. Woopwoop, way to go.

     Okay, so what the hell is a "boost"? Essentially, Seventh Generation has a line of 6 facial oils all aimed at different skincare needs: Jojoba (dryness), Oat Extract (irritation/uneven skin tone), Tea Tree (oiliness/impurities), Baobab (lack of firmness), Rosehip (fine lines), and Prickly Pear (environmental damage). This ability to tailor to your specific needs is the first place Seventh Generation succeeded. In addition, they are completely plant based and concentrated. So basically the active ingredients aren't diluted in water (holla more fo yo monay) and there is a complete absence of nasty chemicals. As an added bonus, these boosts are completely vegan and not tested on animals.

     Oils can be a bit off-putting, I know. They feel greasy and heavy. They are slightly messy. But fear not, these are completely manageable - even for those with oily skin. As skincare experts have reiterated thousands of times, even if you tend to be oilier you must moisturize your skin. Stripping it of its natural moisture via astringents, etc. only leads to overcompensation (i.e. even oilier skin). These boosts provide the moisture your skin needs along with helping to solve some of its issues. Plus, the main oils are delivered in a carrier system. Huh? What? It's okay, I had to do my research about this shiz too. Apricot kernel oil, sweet almond oil, and grapeseed oil "carry" the other oils into your skin helping them to absorb quickly with a slightly more powdery feel. Now, while these are not overly greasy, I do find that this isn't the fastest-absorbing moisturizer I've tried. When I put it on at night (I use roughly 2 pumps) I find that it takes around an hour to soak in completely. So if you're one who goes straight to bed after their skincare routine, there's a good chance your pillow will be doing most of the absorbing. Still, you can use a pump of this integrated with your normal moisturizer. This still delivers the benefits and is a little bit more user-friendly. Just keep in mind you're diluting it slightly (and may not be 100% natural depending on your lotion).

     As for the specific Revitalizing Boost, I love it. I've been looking to try a facial oil for a while now, especially one with rosehip (glad I didn't spend $44 on the Trilogy version). It's radiance-boosting properties are what hooked me. Plus warding off fine lines was much appreciated. This version also has vanilla bean extract. Ohhhh my god. That is definitely the prominent scent, which is fantastic because I'm quite fond of vanilla. I use this all over my face after toning, either alone (most commonly) or just a drop  mixed into another moisturizer. My skin looks rejuvenated and feels nourished in the morning. I do feel a little annoyed that it doesn't immediately absorb, but I think that's to be expected of any facial oil (I noticed the same of coconut). It's a worthwhile trade to be using an all-natural product that works. This line is sold for $14.99 at Walgreens - BUT if you go online here you can take their skincare quiz to find the right boost for you and save $3 off your purchase. *dances in jubilation*

     Speak to all you lovely humans next Sunday,

Rachel
xx

Hello lovelies!

     Today I'm going to be reviewing one of my all-time favorite beauty products: E.L.F. Studio Blush. I came across these on a whim one day in Target (surprise surprise) and completely fell in love with them. The best part is that they're only $3! I have three now: Candid Coral, Tickled Pink, and Pink Passion.

     Disclaimer: I may not get swatches up today considering I'm working all day and then helping someone move in tonight.

Anyway, these blush products are amazing.

candid coral

     Candid Coral is a nice tan-orangey shade that gives you a sun-kissed look without overdoing it like bronzer can. I wouldn't say it's a standard coral color by any means but rather warms up the face. I recommend this if you have warm undertones (although I think Rachel uses it occasionally as well).

tickled pink

     Tickled Pink is a beautiful, natural color that I swipe on when I'm in a hurry to give my face a nice glow. I think this color could look great on everyone no matter what your undertone is. It's a rosy pink that makes it look as if you went out in the cold briefly... which doesn't make sense in the summer. But basically it just looks great.

pink passion

   
     Pink Passion is CRAZY bright in the packaging but completely brightens up your entire face when you put it on. You don't need much and that's why I love it! I think I use this one most often because I really like having bright cheeks. Not clown cheeks, just enough color to make it look as if I'm awake because I honestly probably feel like death on the inside, especially if I haven't had coffee.

     In conclusion, these are all amazing and I recommend them SO much, especially if you're looking for a new, cheap blush!



xx
Jen

     A funny story accompanies this AMAZING product. (Did that make it clear enough to you how much I love it?) I was in Target buying this along with some lotions and baby shampoo and the cashier who was a guy around my age gave me a weird look... probably because I'm 19 and buying baby products. He then asked if I had a younger brother (which I don't) but just because it's too difficult to explain beauty products to males I went along with it. For a whole ten minutes. About my non-existent younger brother. Hey, you've gotta get your kicks somehow, right? Anyway, I now have an 18-month-old younger brother. Who knew?

     Back to the product. This product is a miracle-worker. Here's just a few ways to use it:

1. Shaving 
     Yeah, I said it. I used just a bit of this on my legs in the shower and HOLY MOTHER my legs have never been smoother. It's also nice because the water doesn't make it budge as much as regular shaving cream since it's oil. I usually have itchy, dry legs after I shave and this was not an issue after using this. Also, I used it on my bikini line and I didn't want to stab my eyes out with hatred of shaving there. So, that's a pretty big deal. I'm dead serious. Try it out.


2. Moisturizer
     I used this on my legs after I got out of the shower as well just to lock in some extra moisture. Careful not to use too much though, otherwise your legs are really smooth but also really slippery.


3. Makeup Remover
     I haven't quite figured out how to use this super effectively but it does work. If you don't like oil in your makeup remover I wouldn't recommend it but I am definitely considering switching to this as my permanent makeup remover. You can use it on your eyes and your face (which is the part I'm trying to figure out how to do well) and then I just use my regular face wash to remove the oil and other nasty gunk at night.


4. Frizz-Tamer
     SURPRISE! This shit also works to tame your frizzies. Don't try this if your hair isn't coarse because it could definitely make your hair oily (duh). However, my hair is super thick and curly and coarse so I just put a tiny bit in my hand, rubbed my hands together, and took it for a spin. It worked pretty well and my hair didn't look oily at all. Take THAT, $43 Moroccan Oil!

     I will keep you all updated if I find any more uses for this product. But with four already, you can't go wrong. I think I'm gonna buy a travel-size (if they make it?) just to keep in my bag for random beauty emergencies.

Also, this product is only like $4 and you can find it pretty much anywhere. Beautiful.