Spanish Rose Glow is a brand new, limited edition shade of BECCA’s award-winning Shimmering Skin Perfector® Pressed Highlighter. Spanish Rose Glow is the newest addition to the Passport to Glow Collection which also includes BECCA x Hatrice Highlighter Berlin Girl Glow and Parisian Lights Highlighter. I wonder where BECCA will go next? While I don’t have that […]
BECCA Spanish Rose Glow Shimmering Skin Perfector
I’ve been coloring my hair, at home or in a salon, since junior high school. Back then, it was to change up my natural hair color. Today, it’s mostly to cover grays and add more dimension. Occasionally, I also try a new trend, like rose gold or pumpkin spice. No matter the color or process, […]
The holiday beauty release season is in full launch mode. It seems like every day a new palette or kit pops up on Instagram or in stores. Some releases are inspired, while others feel gimmicky. To me, one of the most noteworthy holiday collections comes from EM Cosmetics. As you may or not be […]
New! EM Cosmetics Holiday Collection
Lola’s Secret Beauty Blog is thoroughly obsessed with the new holiday Shu Uemura La Maison du Chocolat Ganache & Praliné Eye Shadow Palette in Dark Cacao. One look at the swatches and you will see why we are absolutely in love with this limited edition beauty. #shuuemura #lamaisonduchocolat With Halloween only days away, are you […]
The Beauty Spotlight Team Weekly Reads
PRAI Beauty, known globally as the neck authority and maker of the iconic PRAI Ageless Throat and Decolletage Creme introduces The Scent of a Woman Eau De Parfum $63. This glamorous perfume smells different on everyone and is designed to ignite feelings of love, power, and energy to you the confidence you need to own the day! ” Like […]
PRAI Beauty Scent of a Woman Eau de Parfum!
NYX dropped a new limited edition collection recently called The Machinist Collection inspired by Steampunk. Steampunk is a subgenre of science fiction or science fantasy that incorporates technology and aesthetic designs inspired by 19th-century industrial steam-powered machinery. It started in the literary world and has spilled over to fashion and makeup. There are three Machinist Eyeshadow […]
NYX Cosmetics Machinist Collection: Steam
I love the idea of camping, but I’m kind of a high-maintenance gal, and I don’t love a lot of the things that go along with “real” camping. So I say, “Why go camping, when you can kick it up a few notches and go “glamping” instead? Glamping basically means you are staying in a cabin or super fancy tent. You usually have a bathroom, running water, electricity, maybe even a fireplace and A/C. Yes, it costs more. But, it’s TOTALLY worth it! Here are some of the fun places to go all-out camping near Los Angeles. There really is something for everybody.
Big Sur is one of my favorite places on the planet and I even thought about getting married there. But I honestly don’t visit nearly enough! I’m going to fix that! One of the great glamping spots in Big Sur is Treebones Resort. This resort offers a number of adventurous and unique upscale camping experiences. The main accommodations consist of 16 yurts sitting on top of redwood platforms. Each platform offers a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean.
On the inside, each yurt is a glamping treat, equipped with queen-size beds, comfortable couches and electric lights and heaters. Think about spending the day exploring the nearby Julia Pfeiffer Burns state park, as well as the resort’s restaurant, sushi bar, spa and outdoor bar. Last but not least, head back to your yurt to watch the unforgettable sunset.
Autocamp – Yosemite (coming soon), Wine Country and Santa Barbara
Autocamp is a comfortable camping experience where all of the lodgings are updated Airstream trailers. These classic campers are a lot of fun to look at and equipped with a kitchen complete with gadgets and a selection of boutique bathing products. Each trailer at Autocamp also comes with two Cruiser-style bicycles to use to explore the nearby area.
El Capitan Canyon – Santa Barbara
One of the more popular glamping sites in California, El Capitan Canyon features over 100 cabins and cabin tents four glampers to enjoy. All accommodations include comfortable furnishings, including willow beds and western-style blankets. When you’re in the mood for a swim, El Capitan Canyon is located just down the road from El Capitan State Beach, a popular sandy beach that’s perfect for a picnic or a day in the water. Complementary cruiser bikes are available on request, to make your way to the beach in style.
Shelter Co. – anywhere!
Shelter Co is a California-based company that is taking the glamping experience to a new level. It has a variety of packages available that allow you to rent a tent that’s been outfitted with all the comforts you desire, set up on location wherever you prefer.
The most basic package includes a tent and restroom facility, fully furnished and ready to be set up wherever your sense of adventure takes you. For an additional cost, you can choose a number of exciting add-ons such as an outdoor movie theater that makes your glamping trip truly unforgettable.
If you want to take all the worry out of your vacation, Shelter Co. can even help you to organize catering or events to keep your guests entertained. With every other detail taken care of, all that’s left for you to do is relax.
Yosemite High Sierra Camps – Yosemite
Starting your glamping getaway at Yosemite High Sierra Camps takes a bit of work. The camps are all about six miles apart along the High Sierra Camp Loop Tail, meaning you’ll have to spend time hiking or horse-packing to your site. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a fully outfitted cabin tent, complete with a wood-burning stove. The site is a bit rustic compared to other glamping-friendly camp in the area, but the incredible views of the Tuolumne Meadows area of Yosemite National Park will make up for the extra effort.
These are just four possibilities of glamping locations near Los Angeles. There really is no reason to “rough it,” while enjoying Mother Nature’s beauty. Forget about sleeping bags, flashlights and long trips to the outhouse. Say “yes” to comfy furniture, soft bedding and real lighting options. Once you “glamp,” chances are you’ll never go plain ‘ole camping again!
Got any great glamping spots to recommend? Let me know in the comments!
Also check out my list of best staycations near Los Angeles, and best Instagram-friendly spots in LA!
The post Where to go Glamping Near Los Angeles appeared first on My Beauty Bunny.
I have a confession to make. I’ve never purchased anything from Makeup Geek, until now. Although I’ve followed Marlena and Makeup Geek for a long time, I was unsure about buying products I couldn’t swatch or see in person. Silly, I know. I finally felt compelled after the latest round of YouTube Beauty Community drama. […]
Makeup Geek Pumpkin Spice Palette V2
Molton Brown has been London’s bath and body connoisseurs since 1973 blended in England with the finest ingredients from around the world. Molton Brown’s Orange & Bergamot launched 30 years ago as ‘Bubbling Orange Grove’, which changed over the years to ‘Naran Ji’ and now Orange and Bergamot. The original collection featured one of Britain’s first ever luxury fine […]
Molton Brown Orange and Bergamot Collection Remastered!
This week our Makeup Wars bloggers are talking about their favorite fall collections. I am extending the topic a bit to tell you about all my favorite beauty products for fall. Make sure to scroll to the bottom of this post and click on the thumbnails to see what favorites the rest of the group has. […]
Makeup Wars Favorite Fall Beauty Products!
Farmer’s markets have SO much to offer. When you’re looking for something to do on a sunny weekend afternoon, the market is the place to be. Keep reading, to learn more about three farmers markets located either in Los Angeles proper or a short distance away. Food and fun await you!
This Farmers Market stands out from others in the area, and has become a staple destination for many. The focus on family-oriented fun and activities makes this an ideal market to visit for families with children of all ages.
While this kid-friendly market has a petting zoo as well as a moonbounce to entertain the little ones, that’s not all the Brentwood Market is known for. It boasts a rotation of over 200 vendors ranging from food trucks to produce, as well as a collection of unique vendors like the pure dog food vendor and another who specializes in seafood.
If you’re hungry but you don’t want to wait until you get home to cook up all of your farmer’s market goodies, you can grab a quick bite from one of the many excellent, independently-owned food trucks located around the marketplace.
Here you’ll find food truck vendors featuring authentic Thai cuisine, hot cocoa and tasty treats like fruit sorbet and kettle corn. A visit to the Brentwood Farmers Market is an easy way to turn your family outing into a fun learning experience with your kids, teaching them the importance of buying local, getting them involved in meal preparation and getting them excited about eating fresh and healthy meals.
One of the most popular Farmers Market’s in Los Angeles, the Santa Monica Farmers Market has been the go-to market for locals for over 30 years. Established in 1981, the market has become well-known for their extremely diverse selection of high-quality fruits and vegetables, thanks to the hard work of the 180 or so local farmers who regularly vendor there.
While you can find rare and hard to find produce like varieties of mulberries or nante carrots at this particular market, you may also find many local vendors of artisanal foods like baked goods and small batch cheeses, as well as vendors of meats and fresh seafood.
Favorited by both locals and tourists, the iconic Original Farmers’ Market is a famous landmark teeming with a rich history and considered to be the first farmer’s market in Los Angeles. It makes sense, right?
It came to be in 1934, when farmers made a deal with landowners to start selling their produce from the backs of landowner trucks. The market is set up almost like a small village, and in fact, even has their own post office.
The old timey signs and architecture make it an ideal place to explore as you shop with the local vendors. It is also one of the few farmer’s markets open seven days a week, which is great news for visitors who come to explore over 100 restaurants, unique shops and grocers in the market!
This farmer’s market often hosts events and activities like the annual fall festival, free concerts and even food tastings with local vendors. You won’t find the largest selection of produce here, but you’ll find a lot more shops and eateries, along with live music in the evenings. It’s definitely a hot spot for tourists, and you can do some additional shopping at The Grove while you’re there. Whether you’ve lived in Los Angeles for your whole life, or you’re just passing through, a visit to the Original Farmers’ Market is a worthwhile trip. One you won’t soon forget!
I also really like the Larchmont Farmers Market (if you’re local to the area), and there’s a new one on La Brea (in the parking lot for SweetGreen, which has awesome salads) that is small, but great for locals. When you’re in search of some of the freshest (healthiest) food available, why not plan a visit to one of these fantastic farmer’s markets. You never know what yummy goodies you’ll find.
The post Best Farmers Markets in Los Angeles appeared first on My Beauty Bunny.
Lola’s Secret Beauty Blog loves high-quality luxury skincare, and recently fell head-over-heels in love with several Erborian Skincare products that have quickly achieved holy grail status. Hint: Their Solid Cleansing Oil is truly covet-worthy! #erborian Prime Beauty received her best subscription box ever with the BoxyCharm October 20118 box! Take a look at the goodies […]
The Beauty Spotlight Team Weekly Reads
This year marks the 25th anniversary of one of Tim Burton’s cult classics, The Nightmare Before Christmas. It took us on a journey to Halloween Town to help the Pumpkin King, Jack Skellington bring a new holiday into town. And if you didn’t fall in love with Jack, Sally or Zero, you definitely can’t get the songs out of […]
Here’s what is certain: There are no firming or tightening products whose results can duplicate what you derive from in-office procedures such as dermal fillers, Botox, lasers, or cosmetic surgery. Board– Certified Denver plastic surgeon Manish Shah says, “There are anti-aging products or ingredients that do perform significantly better than others and can make a profound difference […]
Anti-Aging Products & Ingredients: Separating the Skincare Heroes from the Zeroes
Luxury skincare brand ELEMIS has transformed their #1 cleanser into a rose formulation with five rose extracts from around the world. The ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm $99 is now formulated with delicate English Rose in support of The Pink Agenda and supersized in a 200g jar. This powerful cleanser easily dissolves makeup, daily grime and pollutants for a soft and […]
ELEMIS Limited Edition Pro-Collagen Rose Cleansing Balm Supersize!
Hey beauties, I’m back with another Fashion Flash Beauty and a Book Giveaway! I’m an avid reader and my favorite genre is mystery so I am so excited to present this book and giveaway to you! The Quiche of Death by New York Times bestselling author M.C. Beaton is the first in the Agatha Raisin Mystery series and […]
Fashion Flash Beauty & a Book Giveaway: Win a $50 Ulta Gift Card!
Gregg and I are currently dealing with a six hour layover at the Manchester airport. We’re on our way from Los Angeles to Edinburgh for our wedding, and this was the best option we could find for our budget. Since we’ve got some time to hang out, we’re going to make the best of it!
While most of us aim to book a direct flight when it’s time to travel, it doesn’t always work out. Sometimes, the direct option is far more expensive than the flight with the layover. In other cases, there might not be any direct options at all. In any case, most travelers will find themselves faced with an extra long layover at least once or twice – and when it happens to you, you might as well make the best of it!
Instead of spending your layover slumped in a terminal chair, waiting to board your next flight, take advantage of the time you have to explore someplace new – even if that new place is, well, an airport. Here are a handful of things you can do to make the most of your long layover:
1 – Do your research. If you know your layover is particularly long, don’t wait until your flight lands to know what options are available to you. Do a little research before you go. Spend some time on the airport’s website and review the directory to know exactly how you can spend your time. If there are any must-see attractions, you don’t want to miss out!
2 – Get out and explore! If your layover is long enough, and the airport you’re at isn’t too far from the city it serves, see if you can find a way to experience your destination for a couple of hours. This one makes me a little nervous because I’m generally a nervous traveler and I’m always afraid I’ll miss a flight or something will go wrong (hello anxiety brain!). Plus, we’re currently carrying a ton of bags and my wedding dress with us, and we’re exhausted because we took a red eye overnight flight! But for those of you who DON’T have travel anxiety, leaving the airport is a great way to get more sightseeing packed into your trip! Airports in cities like Seoul, Istanbul, Singapore and Doha actually offer free city tours, coordinated directly through the airport, but you’re always free to order an Uber and create your own custom tour – as long as you can make it back through security before your next flight departs!
3 – Freshen up. Spending hours on a plane in the stale, recirculated air can leave you feeling not-so-fresh. To ensure you arrive at your final destination looking and feeling your best, take advantage of your long layover as a time to refresh yourself. Keep your toiletries in your carry on for easy access. While you probably won’t have an opportunity to take a true shower, you can wash your face, brush your teeth, moisturize your skin and touch up your makeup, which can make a world of difference. I brought my Emme Diane, Dermalogica and Hello toothpaste travel sizes, along with a toothbrush, with me in my carry-on bag.
4 – Shop duty free. If shopping is on your travel itinerary, see if it makes sense to make any of your purchases in the duty-free shops at the airport. While not every item in a duty-free store is a good deal – on the contrary, you should do some research and know what to buy before you go – you’ll save on taxes and fees typically tacked onto the purchase price when these items are imported through formal channels.
5 – Treat yourself to a good meal. More and more airports are taking their dining options seriously. Gone are the days when your only option to grab a bite to eat during your layover was McDonalds or Sbarro in the food court. Now, many airports aim to showcase their local cuisine through offshoots of popular restaurants native to the area. See what options come recommended at your destination and make a point to enjoy a nice, slow meal.
6 – Live it up in a lounge. Another great way to make a long layover much more enjoyable is to spend your time in one of the airport lounges. Lounges offer an upscale, relaxing space to escape the chaos of the airport, which can be much needed after a long flight, and you’ll find complimentary food and drinks to refuel while you’re there. If you don’t hold an airline membership that grants you access to lounges, consider splurging on a day pass.
Keep these tips in mind before your next long layover (holidays are coming up – you know what that means!), and you’re guaranteed to have a much more pleasant time between flights. If you’ve ever had to endure a long layover, how did you make the most of your experience? Leave a comment and let me know!
The post How To Make The Most Of Your Long Layover appeared first on My Beauty Bunny.
I just love getting subscription boxes in the mail, it’s like Christmas once a month. I don’t even read the spoilers because I want to be totally surprised when I open that box. I’ve tried a lot of beauty sub boxes and the one I like best is BoxyCharm. It costs $21/month but the value is […]
BoxyCharm Subscription Box for October 2018!
The new Rouge Bunny Rouge Enchanting Blossoms Tinted Luxe Balm takes tinted lip balm to a new level. Find out why Christa from Realizing Beauty will be carrying at least two of these in her handbag at all times! For the past 3 months, Never Say Die Beauty has been using a new skincare regimen […]
The Beauty Spotlight Team Weekly Reads
Well, Gregg and I are finally headed to the UK for our wedding and honeymoon! We have a loooooong international, red-eye flight ahead of us, so we’re doing everything possible to make the trip comfortable. We know we’re going to need to sleep on the flight, and normally melatonin does the job for me. But, Gregg is not a good airplane sleeper, so he went to his doctor and got some sleeping medication to help things along. We won’t be asleep the whole time, so I’ve put together some ideas to make our international flight suck less. I hope this helps you too!
Are you getting ready to set off on a big cross-country or international trip? Chances are, you’re heading to the airport to fly to your final destination. Most of us have to fly to get from point A to point B, but it’s no secret that flying commercially isn’t the most comfortable way to get from one place to the next. Crammed into too-small seats and offered peanuts and pretzels as sustenance (if you’re lucky!) means it’s pretty much on you to make your experience as pleasant as possible. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to make your long flight suck less.
Here are a few of my favorite tips to make air travel as pleasant as possible:
1 – Stay entertained. Don’t board the plane hoping the in-flight magazine will be enough to keep you busy. Download a few new playlists and podcasts to your phone, and save your favorite shows from Netflix to watch in offline mode. If you prefer old-school in-flight distractions, bring a book of crossword puzzles or word searches to keep you distracted in the air. And if you plan on taking advantage of the in-flight entertainment system, make sure your Bluetooth-enabled headphones are compatible (if not, you can usually buy some on the plane)!
2 – Hydrate. The recirculated air on the plane won’t do much to keep you hydrated. Instead, you’ll want to drink lots of water combat the drying effects of being up in the sky. I always buy a large bottle of water in the airport before I board my flight. Don’t forget to hydrate your skin, too. Use a good lip balm to keep your lips from drying and apply lotion regularly to your face and hands to combat cracked skin. I bought Renee Rouleau’s Pro Remedy Oil to apply over my regular Emme Diane moisturizer and sunscreen, to keep my skin from drying out. Another bonus tip I learned from Renee Rouleau – wear sunscreen and try to keep the window shades down to avoid massive UV ray skin damage.
3 – Pack smart snacks. Carrying a slice of pizza, a sandwich, or some other smelly food from the terminal onto the plane isn’t the best way to stay nourished on your long flight – and it certainly isn’t a good way to make friends with the person sitting next to you. Instead, be thoughtful and find foods that will taste great in the air while still offering solid nutritional value. Trail mix, protein bars, fruit bars, and pita chips can make great snacks in the skies. Gregg and I went to our local health food store and loaded up on healthy snacks for our trip.
4 – Be comfortable. Planes aren’t super comfortable to begin with, so you’ll want to do everything you can to feel as relaxed and at ease as possible in the air. Wear loose, non-restrictive clothing that won’t cut off your circulation or leave you squirming in your seat. Bring a jacket or a cardigan to layer up in case it gets chilly, and consider a neck pillow if you know you’ll want to get some rest before you reach your destination. I bought this neck pillow wrap thingie for our trip. I like that it doesn’t take up much space, keeps my neck warm, and lets me lean to the side to sleep while sitting up.
5 – Anticipate potential headaches. When you’re packing your carry-on, put some thought into the things you might need while you’re on your flight. Know your ears are going to pop? Pack some gum to combat the uncomfortable sensation. Worried you’ll get a migraine? Throw some headache meds into your carry-on. Bring a portable charger to keep all of your devices juiced up. I really like the MyCharge portable charger – it’s a little pricy but I love that I can plug it into a wall outlet to recharge it, instead of needing to be near a computer for USB charging. A little planning can save you a big headache later on when you’re out of luck mid-flight.
6 – Be kind. Most people aren’t too thrilled to be in the air for hours at a time, and patience can wear thin as you grow closer to your destination. You might be forced to cope with crying babies, overly-talkative neighbors, clogged toilets, and other inconveniences that flyers dread. It’s important to remember that you’re in control of your mood and your mindset – not your environment – and to take steps to stay positive and enjoy the experience.
Equip yourself with these six tips and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying your long flight as much as it’s possible. How do you get ready to preserve your sanity when you know you’re facing a long flight? Leave a comment and let me know!
The post Six Ways To Make Your Long Flight Suck Less appeared first on My Beauty Bunny.
fresh Sugar Spice Lip Treatment $24 has added a new shade to their line up. Sugar Spice is the perfect shade for fall! “I’ve always been inspired by Indian culture. The vibrant colors and rich traditions create such an elaborate visual tapestry. I recently watched a Bollywood film and noticed how pink and gold flower petals were strewn […]
New! fresh Sugar Spice Tinted Lip Treatment
I can’t believe my Scotland castle wedding is in just over a week! I’m just finishing up my wedding beauty prep appointments and I’m hopping on a plane VERY soon. I had two AMAZING facials at one of my all time favorite cruelty free day spas in Beverly Hills, Verabella Spa. I had the first one about a week ago, and then the second one yesterday, right before we leave for our trip to the UK. The first facial is to get in there, do extractions, clean everything out, and the second one is more of a touch-up and lift right before the big event.
Verabella is named after the owner, Vera Kantor, who has been perfecting Hollywood celebrity faces for over 30 years. She loves concocting beauty elixirs based on her Russian grandmother’s recipes, and you can buy many of them in the spa. Her daughter, Victoria, is the spa director, and she’s just awesome. She’s so friendly and welcoming – it makes you want to keep coming back!
I think what sets Verabella Spa apart from others is the philosophy of marrying natural ingredients created by mother nature with the latest skincare technology. Some spas are very clinical and there’s no ambiance whatsoever, and some are so hippy dippy that your skin may not be getting the best treatment. Verabella is comfortably in the middle, and it’s exactly what I prefer. When you get a facial at Verabella, you’ll get soothing music, relaxing infrared light, a big comfy bed to relax in, lots of facial and upper back massage with essential oils, hand massage and hand warmers, and gentle aestheticians. But, you also get effective skincare products, microcurrent, high frequency, microdermabrasion, and other proven skincare technologies.
Oh and there are TONS of celebrities who come to Verabella to keep their skin clear and glowing. I’ve heard that Kerry Washington, Diane Lane, Emma Roberts, and Denzel Washington’s family are all regulars (among many others). There are also a lot of entertainment industry behind-the-scenes types who frequent this spa because they work with celebs and they know how great the facials are.
I had the 90 minute Lift and Glow Treatment facial. This is how they describe it: “Our Lift & Glow Facial is a unique culmination of our 2 most popular & effective treatments, The Instant Lift & MicroDiamondbrasion — combined to produced even better results! Our instant facelift stimulates, tightens and tones facial contours, while the mircoderm polishes skin and gives you an a long-lasting glow. The results are incredible! Improve circulation, hydration, and decrease fine lines, pigmentation and acne scars.”
My aesthetician, Rica, was so sweet and did everything you’d expect in a facial and waaaaay more in this 90 minute pamper-fest. She did lots of steam, cleansing and scrubbing, a pumpkin peel, microdermabrasion (yaaas – exfoliate those pores!), extractions (not painful like other places I’ve been to), microcurrent (which I’m obsessed with because it instantly – albeit temporarily – lifts your face as if you’ve had Botox while encouraging collagen production!), high frequency (to kill bacteria), and a rose petal mask topped with gauze and paraffin to go deep into my skin.
Here’s a before and after pic (sorry for the low quality camera pics) – it may be subtle to you, but I can see a huge difference in how LIFTED my face looks. My brows were much higher after the microcurrent treatment, and look at my hooded eyes – the hood is much less droopy! The effects of microcurrent can last from a few days to a week, so most people get them done before a big event. But the treatment also has long-term benefits, which is why some people get them done weekly! Oh and in case you’re wondering – it doesn’t hurt – you basically get a facial massage with two metal probes, and there’s no sound and no feeling whatsoever (no zap or anything like that).
Rica also used Verabella’s house skincare line which I can say is really top notch. I used to buy her Aloe Tea Tree Oil Healing Gel back in the day, and honestly I have no idea why I stopped (I think I just forgot about it because I get so overwhelmed with samples to review). So needless to say, I bought myself a new bottle to keep the acne away and hydrate before the wedding and during my travels. It’s a great all-around hydrating and acne-fighting product, but it’s also very soothing, so I use it before working out (instead of moisturizer) and after facial treatments like waxing or threading or lasers.
In case you missed it, I published a wedding beauty guide that explains when to do treatments like this (and how close to do them before the wedding or other big event). If you go see Vera, Victoria, Rica, Rachel or the gang at Verabella (and you should), tell them Jen from My Beauty Bunny said hi!
The post Celebrity Skincare Secrets at Verabella Spa in Beverly Hills appeared first on My Beauty Bunny.
Y’all know that after makeup, I’m totally into bath and body products. I love nothing more than relaxing in a hot bath with a fragrant bath bomb and some bubbles! Add in a glass of wine and my Kindle and I’m in heaven! I have reviewed bath and body subscription boxes in the past, and […]
Introducing Bath Bevy Subscription Box for October!
BECCA Cosmetics new Volcano Goddess Collection is inspired by “unearthed gemstones and molten lava, our new Volcano Goddess Collection takes you from day to night.” The collection includes the gorgeous Volcano Eye Shadow Palette, a stunning Shimmering Skin Perfector® Pressed Highlighter in the shade Lava and three Glow Glosses. All I can say is BECCA is on […]
NEW! BECCA Volcano Goddess Collection!
My friend is watching my apartment for me while I’m in the UK for my wedding and honeymoon (can’t wait!), but I just got a new toy that is going to let me watch and TALK TO my pets while I’m away! I got the Guardzilla 360 camera, which is my first foray into things like this. It’s so neat, and perfect for home security, as a nanny cam (to keep an eye on small children) or for pet lovers who travel often (or even pet owners who just miss seeing their pets while at work!).
First of all, it was SUPER easy to set up. I just took it out of the box, charged it and it was pretty much ready to go. I downloaded the app and figured out how to use it in minutes. You can move your phone around to get a 360 degree view of the area, take a snapshot, listen with the microphone, talk (to your pets or to any intruder who might be lurking…yikes!) and even turn on a siren.
Here’s a pic of my messy living room, and surprisingly all three of my fur-kids are in one spot! Honestly, at first I wasn’t sure if I wanted cameras in my house, but it’s not “watching” unless you want it to. I can click “arm” in the app to watch at any time, and leave it off at other times when I’m home. I really love this thing. It even has night vision so you can see at night, and two way conversations so I can chat with my cats.
You can mount this security camera indoors or outdoors, or set it on a stand in your house. I am thinking about getting another one to put outdoors to see who’s been stealing my packages! You can turn on motion detection and get alerts on your phone when someone is near the camera. I would take a screenshot, and then post on community forums to warn my neighbors. If it was something serious, I could even go to the police with snapshots and audio/video as evidence.
What do you guys think? Would you try something like this? And what would you use it for?
The post Here’s How I’m Keeping an Eye on my Pets While I’m Out of Town! appeared first on My Beauty Bunny.
Do your bath and body products make you feel fresh AF or full of ballsy beauty? I wasn’t sure mine did either until I tried Being by Sanctuary Spa. This unique bath and body brand gets its punchy attitude direct from the UK. In addition to being fearless, the four fragrances of Being are also […]
Being by Sanctuary Spa – Bath and Body
Transform your morning commute with a little mobile aromatherapy. GuruNanda® New Mobile USB Car Diffuser takes the health and wellness benefits of this ancient Ayurvedic medicine practice on the road. Small enough to fit into any cup holder, this sleekly designed essential oil diffuser uses ultrasonic technology to disperse a fine mist of distilled water and […]
Take Wellness On The Road With GuruNanda®
Help a Blogger Out: Stef from we heart this asks for “a subtle highlighter that doesn’t make me look like a glazed glitter donut.” I love the BECCA Shimmering Skin Perfector® Pressed Highlighters. Vanilla and Rose Quartz are my favs and if you can get your hands on it, Paris Lights is stunning, especially on fair skin. […]
The Lipstick League Talks Highlighters!
I did not take this picture, but it is where I live–a typical fall at the lake. The geese have left now and flown south for the winter–they are really loud when they fly! Just in time for chilly fall weather, Never Say Die Beauty got two lightweight but warm pairs of anklets to wear […]
The Beauty Spotlight Team Weekly Reads
Help a Blogger Out: Stef from we heart this asks for “a subtle highlighter that doesn’t make me look like a glazed glitter donut.”
Well my friend, I have JUST the thing for you! I tried the new highlighters from Becca, and although they look pretty shimmery in their packaging, they are actually quite natural-looking. I swatched all three on my hand for you, but because they are not “extreme”, you can really only see them when my hand hits the light. So, because of that, I have three separate swatches for you to check out.
Becca Skin Love Glow Glaze Stick swatch
Let’s start with the most natural of them all – the Becca Skin Love Glow Glaze Stick. The Skin Love line is Becca’s first step into the skincare market. They aren’t going to put out boring stuff though. Oh no – only products that come with their trademark glow built in! The Glow Glaze Stick looks the most like your skin’s natural oils. So if you have dry or mature skin that just looks dull and lackluster, this will give you back your glow. It gives you a dewy look without the glitter or shimmer, plus it has Vitamin C, ginger, avocado, melon, murumuru butter and sodium hyaluronate to moisturize skin.
Becca Skin Love Glow Elixir Swatch is right down the middle
The Becca Skin Love Glow Elixir is a step up, but along the same lines. This one comes in a glass bottle with a dropper (ohhh fancy!). It has more shimmer than the stick. It looks like it would be way too much in the bottle (and it looks green), but when you put it on, it blends nicely and is actually quite natural-looking. You can use it on the regular highlight areas, all over, or blend with your moisturizer. Best for normal to dry skin, it has lots of skin hydrating ingredients like algae, honey, blueberry, resveratrol, licorice, sodium hyaluronate, and many more delicious-sounding things!
Becca x Hatrice Schmidt Berlin Girl Glow swatch on the left side of my hand
The new, limited edition Becca and German YouTuber, Hatrice Schmidt, collab highlighter, called Berlin Girl Glow, is a powder (my preference since I’m an oily, acne-prone gal). The Becca x Hatice highlighter is described as a cool honey with pink and blue light-shifting pearls. This one looks beautiful and so natural on my skin. I don’t know if it somehow plays nice with my light olive skin tone or what, but it’s definitely a keeper! The product is pressed with an image of Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate, which is really cute too.
Do you guys have any cruelty free, natural-looking highlighters to recommend? Let me (and Stef) know in the comments!
The Lipstick League – week of 10.1.18
Please note that not all Lipstick League posts are cruelty free.
Phyrra – I’ve switched up my skincare routine for Fall, have you? Check out my Fall Skincare Routine for Dry Skin!
Prime Beauty – I love it when a beloved YouTuber has an opportunity to collaborate with a beloved brand! YouTuber Emily Noel collaborated with Makeup Revolution to create this travel-friendy Emily Edit The Needs Palette. Find out if YOU need it.
we heart this – shimmer, glimmer, glitter…we’re talking all that twinkles in these new beauties from Pixi Beauty.
Beautygeeks – has a tale of acetone and nail-polish fumes, pollen and dust and toxic-mold exposure, and Manigeek’s new No.1 fan.
Blushing Noir – A video tutorial on the new ELF Modern Metals Collection. You’ll definitely want to get your hands on that eyeshadow palette ASAP!
My Beauty Bunny – has found the best paleo, low-sugar, organic, vegan dark chocolate in the land. You’ll want to see this!
Painted Ladies – Esqido, makers of fabulous faux lashes, has two brand new gel eyeliners that stand up to the test of maturing eyelids and a heavy workout session.
(Wondering what the Lipstick League is? Find out here.)
Phyrra is Currently Craving: The CHARLOTTE TILBURY Charlotte’s Genius Under Eye & Face Magic Powder. I’ve heard it’s great for under the eyes on dry skin.
The post New Becca Highlighters Won’t Make You Look Like a Disco Ball appeared first on My Beauty Bunny.
Milani Cosmetics has released two new eyeshadow palettes on the heels of their highly successful Bold Obsessions (reviewed here) and Most Loved Mattes palettes. Milani is one of the best drugstore brands on the market and continues to launch hit after hit. The new Pure Passions and Soft and Sultry eyeshadow palettes are two new […]
Frugal Friday: Milani Soft and Sultry Eyeshadow Palette
If you go to your local drugstore, you may have a bit of trouble finding cruelty free travel size beauty products. You’ll probably find some, but not for EVERY need. In that case, it’s time to hit up your local Ulta, because they seem to have a bigger selection of cruelty free travel sized products. You’ll also find a lot of options on Ulta.com and Target.com.
I do NOT pack light! As a beauty addict, there are so many product I need to bring with me! I don’t understand people who are able to travel with nothing but a carry-on bag (like my friend Sharon). I need a large suitcase, purse, and a carry-on for anything more than an overnight trip (even then…). So that being said, I get excited when I can find travel sizes of the products I actually use.
One thing I try not to do is bring samples of products I’ve never tried before. The last thing you want is a crappy hair day because you used whatever they had at the hotel or some samples you got during your last trip to Sephora. You also don’t want to try new skincare when you’re traveling, because that can trigger an allergic reaction or breakout. No thank you! I’ve been there, done that, and it sucks.
I am usually a VERY last minute packer (I hate packing). But for my upcoming wedding trip to Edinburgh, Scotland and London, England, I am already starting the process. I’ve figured out some of the travel size toiletries I’ll need to take with me as well as what I’m taking them IN!
First let’s talk about these ADORABLE Bride and Groom toiletry bags from sustainable and eco-friendly fashion and accessory brand, Mona B! These would make great pre-wedding gifts for any future brides and grooms out there. They are very roomy and I love the distressed look. I am bringing the Bride Cosmetic Bag for my “day of” makeup and the Groom Dopp Kit for Gregg’s “day of” beauty stuff (undereye masks, eye cream, moisturizer, SPF, razor, etc) so he can find it all in one place.
I also got the Bride to Be That’s Me burlap tote bag, which is perfect for hauling all of my “day of” must-haves while I get my hair/makeup done and wander around the castle making sure all my last minute things are done. And, I got the Ah-maze-ing Ginny Tote which is a large vegan bag which a totally edgy feel. And last but not least, I got this black vintage lace scarf for the chilly nights in Scotland and England. I’ll be showing these off on my Instagram while I’m in the UK, so make sure to follow me there!
Now let’s talk travel size products! Here’s what I’m taking with me:
Tweezerman Lighted 15x Mini Travel Mirror – Hotel lighting is notoriously awful, and I always feel like I need more light unless there’s a patio or balcony and a sunny day (probably won’t happen while I’m in the UK!). I am bringing this 15x mini mirror to help me get all those wayward facial hairs, so I don’t have to ask my photographer to edit them out of the photos later! Where are my fellow hairy girls? You feel me!
Tweezerman Micro Mini Palette Set – This adorable set takes up very little space and includes everything I’ll need to keep my brows groomed on my trip: a Micro Mini Slant Tweezer, Mini Eyebrow Brush, Mini Folding Precision Razor & Mini Spoolie.
Paul Mitchell Hair Gel – Before I leave, I’m going to be trying out the different Paul Mitchell hair gels and thickeners. I am going for a SUPER big, curly hair look (worn down with a tiara) for my big day, so I want to try out all the options. I’m already a die-hard fan of Paul Mitchell’s Ultimate Wave (you may have heard me rave over and over about how it defines my curls without any crunchiness), and it may be “the one”. But, I’m going to try out the Firm Style Super Clean Sculpting Gel, Firm Style XTG and Tea Tree Lemon Sage Thickening Spray to see which one works best for MAXIMUM body and hold. I’ll update here when I figure out which one is coming with me!
Dermalogica PreCleanse – This is the only cleansing oil I will use. I have tried many and most are really not made for acneic or oily skin (in my opinion). The Dermalogica PreCleanse is the OG product to remove makeup (which I will have caked on for my wedding day of course!). I love this one because it emulsifies fully – and doesn’t leave behind any grease. After I apply to dry skin, I then emulsify with a small amount of water, and then cleanse with a regular cleanser to remove any traces.
Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant – This is another cult favorite from Dermalogica and it’s one of mine too. It gives your skin a nice, gentle scrub and removes makeup, dirt and oil completely without stripping your skin. I use it after the PreCleanse on days when I’m wearing makeup, or alone if I’m not. Men and women alike love this product, so maybe I’ll consider sharing it with my new husband. 
Hello Toothpaste – It’s vegan, cruelty free (Leaping Bunny certified) and made with natural ingredients! I am currently using the sensitive and charcoal varieties but you can find the whitening travel size toothpaste on Amazon.
And, if you can’t find your favorite products in travel sizes, get some travel bottles and start decanting! It will take up less room in your luggage, and you can always re-use them for future trips. You’ll always know what you have with you, and how it works on your skin, hair, etc. But, listen – if you do end up using non-cruelty-free products either because you couldn’t find an alternative or you forgot to bring them and you’re using what’s in the hotel, DO NOT STRESS! It’s okay! You’re doing the best you can and the animals thank you for it. Go easy on yourself and do what you can.
The post Where to Find Travel Size Cruelty Free Beauty Products appeared first on My Beauty Bunny.
Fall has arrived and it’s my favorite season here in the Pacific Northwest. The leaves are changing, it’s brisk in the morning and warm and sunny in the afternoon. Time to bring out the boots, sweaters and Pumpkin Spice everything! Speaking of Pumpkin, I’ve been taking advantage of the antioxidant-rich Pumpkin Renew Cream $28 from MyChelle. […]
Popular YouTuber Emily Noel has collaborated with Makeup Revolution to create two palettes: The Emily Edit The Wants, an eyeshadow palette $20 and The Emily Edit The Needs, a full face palette $15. These were released in late August so I’m late in reviewing. I still haven’t been able to get my hands on the Wants […]
Revolution x The Emily Edit The Needs Face and Eye Palette
Mally Beauty Mallywood Smoky Mama! Mascara is part of the 4-pc. Limited Edition Mallywood Collection which includes an Eyeshadow Palette, Ombre Highlighting Trio, Highlighting Blush (reviewed here) and this mascara. The packaging for this collection is pure Hollywood…er, I mean Mallywood. Hot Pink and gold glitter give us those star vibes. Mascara is my thang and I feel naked without it. […]
Mally Beauty Mallywood Smoky Mama! Mascara
The secret to life is really good chocolate! When Gregg and I embarked on a paleo, low-sugar diet in January of this year, we were pleased to find that low-sugar, 70% cacao chocolate was still on the menu. Dark chocolate has a ton of health benefits when eaten in moderation, including polyphenols and other antioxidants (even more than blueberries and acai berries!).
We were looking for something without refined sugar, dairy, gluten and soy, and without any additives like sugar alcohols or aspartame. We tried A LOT of different brands, but once we found Buddha Chocolate at our local Erewhon health food store, we were HOOKED!
After doing some stalking on Instagram, I discovered that the founders of Buddha Chocolate are an adorable couple named Laura and Cayce, who just had a newborn baby (congrats guys!). They handcraft small batches of chocolate in Portland, Oregon, and the love they put into the chocolate really shows. They even have a cute little chocolate shop and cafe, and if I make it up to Portland, you’d better believe I’ll be paying them a visit!
Buddha Chocolate uses organic, fair trade & direct trade cacao that is sourced from Öko Caribe in the Dominican Republic, where it is “ethically grown using agroforestry, the most ecologically sound & sustainable growing methods for the earth and cacao plants.”
Buddha Chocolate comes in all kinds of fancy flavors like Strawberry Moon (with real strawberry pieces and rose petals), Lavender Bliss, Lemon Zen, Maya Spice, Western Red Cedar, Wild Rose & Sea Salt, Smoke & Salt, Oregon Hazelnut, and many more. They also have more classic flavors like regular and salted chocolate, as well as almond. Oh – and they even have almond butter cups, drinking chocolate and S’mores! My favorite by far is the Coffee Ritual flavor with real coffee beans on top. I don’t drink coffee very often because it bothers my tummy, but this chocolate (in moderation of course) fulfills my cravings without any problems!
Take a look at the nutritional profile to see if it fits your diet. But I think it will fit most! One half of a Coffee Ritual bar has 8 grams of sugar and 5 grams of fiber. I don’t usually eat half a bar at a time (okay well – sometimes…), and as a treat, I think this is about as healthy as it gets. I should also mention that I have a pretty low tolerance for “healthy desserts”. I describe most of them as “foresty” – as in, someone dropped it on the floor of the forest and then tried to eat it. LOL! But these chocolates are definitely NOT foresty! If you’re used to sugar-laden grocery-store chocolate, it may be less sweet than you’re used to, but it’s definitely one of the sweeter ones I’ve tried from the paleo chocolate world. There is coconut sugar added, which makes it delicious but still low-glycemic and paleo-friendly. I’ve tried some that taste like baking chocolate mixed with wax, and those are on my NO THANK YOU list!
Now, I can tell you that it’s pretty rare that we don’t have any Buddha Chocolate in the house, because we don’t do a lot of sugar, and this is a must-have treat for us. But, I will say, this fancy, small-batch chocolate needs to be savored, because it’s not cheap. You can get a bar for $7 online (we pay somewhere around $8 at Erewhon), or you can buy in bulk and save some dough (I really need to do that). Gregg and I usually each have a small piece after dinner, and one bar will last us about 2-3 days (or 1 day if I’m PMS’ing)! It’s an indulgence to be sure, but it’s a healthy one, and it’s SO worth it!
The post I’ve Found the Best Paleo Vegan Low Sugar Chocolate! appeared first on My Beauty Bunny.
Y’all know by now I’m kind of definitely an eyeshadow enthusiast hoarder and I especially love eyeshadow palettes. In the world of eyeshadows, there are the stars, (shimmers) and the supporting cast, the (mattes). Though the shimmers get all the love and attention, they couldn’t shine without the mattes in the background forming the base and […]
Mally’s Mattes Eyeshadow Palette
Question of the Week: Drugstore vs prestige cosmetics – which is better?
Which is better – drugstore beauty products or prestige cosmetics (like those found in department stores, Sephora or the high-end section of Ulta)? Well, everyone has an opinion on this. I personally think you get what you pay for – up to a point. I have consistently found that prestige makeup and skincare products tend to work better. BUT, I have also found some really amazing gems in the drugstore world that have blown my mind (the NYX 3 Steps to Sculpt palette has an amazing cool-toned contour shade that rivals the Kevyn Aucoin light contour shade for example). With prestige products, you’re often getting better quality materials without unnecessary fillers, but that’s not always the case. And at some point, you’re paying for the marketing and packaging that it takes to get these products into the Sephoras of the world. It’s not easy to get into Sephora, and from what I understand, it’s not easy to STAY in Sephora either. So that takes a lot of money and marketing.
So there are pros and cons to each, but in general, I think it’s worth spending more on certain things like foundation (color matching and formula are so important) and eyeshadows (some of the really cheap eyeshadows are so patchy and hard to blend). But other things are easier to save money on (blushes, mascaras and lipsticks in my opinion). What do you guys think? Any amazing dupes that you’ve found in the drugstore world?
The Lipstick League – week of 9.17.18
Please note that not all Lipstick League posts are cruelty free.
Painted Ladies – The good, the bad and the oily. Is the new NYX Cosmetics Can’t Stop Won’t Stop foundation a match for Sheila’s oily skin?
Phyrra – What do you wear to concerts? You’ll love my hair, makeup and Edgy Style Rocker Chic Outfit to see Clutch & SevenDust!
Prime Beauty -tries out the new Milani Pure Passion Eyeshadow Palette. Is it a fantastic drugstore find or fail?
Slashed Beauty – The new Revlon Kiss Cushion Lip Tints are giving matte liquid lipsticks a run for their money. See swatches and decide which shades to pick up this fall!
Beautygeeks – thinks it’s too early to focus on holiday beauty sets, but is doing it anyway. *shrug*
Blushing Noir – If you’re obsessing over those pricey Natasha Denona eyeshadows but aren’t sure you want to spend the $$$ you’re in luck! The Natasha Denona Mini Star Eyeshadow Palette is now available, but hurry… it’s limited edition!
EauMG – In case you were wondering, this was my most worn perfume of Summer 2018.
My Beauty Bunny – is a bit obsessed with the new Urban Decay Lo Fi Lip Mousse. She’s got a review and swatches of all shades on her blog!
(Wondering what the Lipstick League is? Find out here.)
Painted Ladies is Currently Craving: the Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter which seems to be universally adored by all those who have tried it. I’m wondering if it will be too much for my normal-to-oily skin, though.
The post Drugstore vs Prestige Cosmetics – Which is Better? appeared first on My Beauty Bunny.
