Influenster Venus Vox Box Review of Gillette Venus Embrace Sensitive!

Hi Shine and Sparkle Readers!

Thank you for tuning in once again to your weekly S+SR post!  This time we have a very special (and sponsored) post.  See, I told you all in my Introduction Post that I would always be completely honest with you all.  I'm excited because I was skeptical at the beginning of my blogging adventure that I would ever be in a position to have to tell you that a post was sponsored. Admittedly, I had one other sponsored post from Hujan Luxury Skin Care, but that post was from a small local business which I interacted with personally.   In this case, a large company has looked at the lil' old awe-inspiring Shine and Shine and Sparkle Report and determined that we would be a good fit to review their products! I was seriously stoked to see this message in my email inbox:

In case you didn't know, My Profile on Influenster is where I do quick and dirty product reviews of lots of products from all assets of life.  These reviews are nowhere near as in depth as a Shine and Sparkle Report post, but it does help with the visibility and reviewing power associated with this blog.  If you are "influential" enough (get it?), then you can qualify for different sponsored boxes of things to try out! I'm so excited that S+SR has influenced them to consider us worthy of a box!


Without any more gushing, I'm so excited to be able to give you my opinion on Gillette's Venus Embrace "Sensitive" Razor* coming to a store near you soon!

As you might have seen in my excited barrage of facebooking, tweeting, and instagraming, the product looks like this:

Overall, I give it an B+!   In a nutshell, I loved it for large of flat areas (legs, arms, under arms, backs, chests, heads, etc) but I do not particularly like it for harder to reach areas or detailed work.

Packaging/Design: It opens easily by popping open the back of the package (no cutting yourself trying to pry anything open--which is good because shaving has it's own cutting risk without crazy packaging).  It comes with two razor blades which are very simple to attach.  Just peel black the cover and shove in your handle.  Idiot proof!  I also love how low profile the holder for the razor is.  Compared to my other razor (by The-Brand-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named").  The razor itself is much lighter than my old one (though my other one had a battery and a trimmer--which I used a grand total of 5 times).  The razor also has good "swivel" so I don't think it is high risk when shaving legs.  The biggest difference from my old razor is that the 5 blades make up a relatively small percentage of the overall razor head, meaning that the profile of the blade is quite large...  I couldn't find a better way to say that.  I swear!  I was initially concerned that this would make it hard to get into hard to reach places.

Function: I started shaving my legs and I was amazed at how friction-less the shave was.  It also seemed to cover quite a large area in one swoop.  Shaving my legs sped by in a nano second.  The result was phenomenal on my legs, with hardly a follicle showing.  I moved on to my underarms, which needed only two strokes each to sweep off hair with a feather's touch.  I was quite impressed.  Then it was on to the true test, the bikini area.  Let's face it, the bikini area is the hardest with coarser hair, funny angles to reach, an by far the most sensitivity.  The main lawn was attended to with the grace it exhibited on my legs and under-arms.  But, lets just say my fears that the largeness of the head razor blade was not conducive to precision work.  My Brand-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named razor is much better at being precise, it did have an advertisement with women prancing by perfectly manicured topiary for heavens sake.  So overall, I'm very impressed.  My legs had an amazing shave, were not irritated, and were somewhat moisturized (I still needed to use lotion afterwards).  Underarms were a breeze.  But I think I'll leave my bikini area to my old razor.


It wouldn't be a Shine and Sparkle Report post without me actually giving you some tips about what I'm reviewing.  So here are some awesome (and related) quick tips!

• Exfoliate your skin before shaving!  This will help draw out in-grown hairs and get rid of dead skin that might prevent you from getting the closest shave possible.
• If you have super sensitive skin when shaving, try shaving in the direction of the hair.  The shave might not be as close, but it will not be as irritating.
• Try using hair conditioner or hair mask as a shaving lotion instead of shaving cream in a pinch (it leaves your legs so soft!)

As Always,
Shine & Sparkle


* Hopefully it is obvious by the whole introduction to this post, but this is actually a sponsored post (so excited)! I received these products to review complementary from the company that produced them.  However, I have not received any additional monetary compensation other than the opportunity to try them and give you my honest thoughts.

Product Empties #2: Mini Reviews of my Beauty Trash

What's up Shine and Sparkle Report Readers!

As you probably know from my Product Empties #1 Post, these posts give people a quick look into how many things I end up trying and not liking enough to really recommend them to you with a full post.  You also get to see what I keep going back to over and over because I love them so much.

Empties Reviews Include: 
1) What I thought about the product;
2) If I would purchase that product again.

The reviews are pretty quick but for sake of this new series of posts on my blog, I'm going to limit each post to under 10-ish products.  Did I have a few too many products this time? Yes...but some are really small!Without further explanation, lets get started!

Empties reviewed from left to right.

Wen Cleansing Conditioner in "Cucumber Aloe"*
1) Thoughts: I had mixed feelings on this and wrote a post about conditioner washing.
2) Repurchase: Not at this time.  I think you can get similar results with other products.

Macadamia Natural Oil Deep Repair Masque
1) Thoughts: Bloggers and YouTube Beauty Gurus RAVE about this.  So much so that I have avoided having it even on my blog in rebellion.  However, after trying out a sample pack of it, I agree that it is pretty great.  I like it for the days when I don't know what my hair needs but I feel like everything is out of balance.  This takes it right back to looking great no matter how crazy my hair is being.
2) Repurchase: Yes! I will continue to have a packet as a hair emergency rescue.  However, the whole tubs of it are pricey and sometimes actually more expensive than the little packs per oz!

Batiste Dry Shampoo in "Fresh" Scent
1) Thoughts: I love it so much I wrote a whole post about dry shampoo!
2) Repurchase: Absolutely!  I've gone through 2 since the last post.

Olay Complete All-Day Moisturizer with Sunscreen (SPF15) in Sensitive Formula
1) Thoughts: Long name, all-time favorite moisturizer.  I love that it never reacts funny to foundations or primers.  I love that it has a physical sunscreen (3% zinc oxide) so it protects all day without re-application.  I also love that despite being a physical sunscreen, it doesn't leave a white cast to my skin at all.  It also never causes me to break out! Hooray!
2) Repurchase: Forever and ever and ever.

Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Shampoo/Conditioner in "Lemon Sage"
1) Thoughts: These bottles lasted forever since I used the shampoo as my clarifying shampoo once a week at most.  I mainly used the conditioner to conditioner wash my hair.  I liked them a lot.  The smelled great and kept my scalp in good health. Did it actually "thicken" my hair?  Not really.
2) Repurchase: I actually repurchased the "Special" version of this line to get a stronger tea tree effect.  I have to say my scalp is liking the Special formula even better than the Lemon Sage.

Catvia Fiber Mascara
1) Thoughts: This sucked.  Technically it's not "empty" but I'm tossing it.  The whole thing was clumpy and didn't work.  It was super dry and just didn't really do anything.  The brush also didn't get into my lashes at all.  It was pricey too =( Internet shopping fail.  The rhinestone packaging was so cute though!
2) Repurchase: Heck no.

Maybelline "The Rocket Volume" Mascara (not water proof)
1) Thoughts: This was my holy grail mascara until I tried the water proof version.  The waterproof not only gives the wonderful effects of this one, but it also holds my lash curl.  That being said, this is a great non-waterproof mascara!  Also took a long time to dry up/change scent (meaning it's time to toss it!)
2) Repurchase: Yes, if I'm looking for a non-waterproof formula.  I'm going to purchase the waterproof more consistently.                          

Victoria's Secret Lip Gloss in "Almost Nude"
1) Thoughts: Good and cheap lip gloss.  Nothing fancy.  That being said it has changed scents and probably is full of bacteria. Time to toss it.
2) Repurchase: No, though I think it's a nice thing to have and might pick on up if I find it on sale.

Simple Sensitive Skin Experts Cleansing Facial Wipes 
1) Thoughts: These have been my go-to drug store wipes.  They are gentle on my skin and pretty effective.  I like to use them after using coconut oil to take off most of my make up at night.  They are not that wet, but they work well enough.  You will need more than one if it is your only method of make-up removal.
2) Repurchase:  Yes.

Olay Fresh Effects Everything Off Deluxe Make Up Removal Wet Cloths
1) Thoughts: Tried these out because I found them on major sale.  They did their job but irritated my skin a little.
2) Repurchase: No, though I might still buy them if they are on crazy crazy sale again.

BareMinerals ORIGINAL Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF 15 in "Golden Medium"
1) Thoughts: I finally finished this!  I had been primarily using it as a setting powder since I have really been loving using a light BB cream and finishing up with a heavier powder like this one.  However, somewhere down the line I purchased the MATTE version of this product and like it better for my oily skin.
2) Repurchase: No, I'll probably stick to the MATTE version.

Vaseline Spray & Go Moisturizer in Cocoa Radiant
1) Thoughts: I love spray sunscreen, so why wouldn't I like spray regular lotion? Because it is most effective when it sprays in a line and is rubbed in.  This really makes it no faster than regular lotion in my opinion.  It is also jarringly cold to apply after just taking a hot shower.  It is also (overall) not nearly as moisturizing as a regular lotion.  It's also not economical at all.  Finishing regular lotion takes forever, finishing this took less than a month.  Biggest pro:  It makes a fun sound.  The sound is between a wheeze/whine and a whoosh, but somehow satisfying.
2) Repurchase: No.

Up&Up Smoothing Shave Gel, Soy
1) Thoughts: Target version of Aveeno.  I love it.  It is cheap and works great.  Leaves my skin quite soft and never irritated.  I think the Soy slows my leg hair growth a bit, but who really knows.  I just know my skin loves this stuff and the price is right!
2) Repurchase: Yes!

Bath and Body Works Anti-bacterial Mini in "Farm Stand Apple"
1) Thoughts: The "Fresh Picked" collection from last fall smelled amazing.  Apple was no exception.  I got it in a set with Heirloom Pear, Sweet Clementine, Heirloom Cranberries, and Crimson Plum.  Whenever I use any of them someone asks "what smells so good?"
2) Repurchase: Yes, however they were limited edition.  I'm not sure if I'll find them again.

Joico K-PAK Intense Hydrator
1) Thoughts: I recommended this in my Conditioners For Your Hair Post.  See that post for a better review.
2) Repurchase: Yes

Organix Moroccan Argan Oil Penetrating Oil
1) Thoughts: I mentioned this in my Updated Healthy Asian Hair Care Routine Post.  While I still think this is a good and affordable oil-containing silicone hair serum,  I think I like Suave Professionals: Moroccan Infusion Moroccan Argan Styling Oil better, and it's even cheaper than the Organix! .
2) Repurchase: Maybe, but most likely I will be trying other things instead.

Phew!  Sorry for such a long review post.  It's definitely a full report on my beauty empties.  I hope you enjoyed.  If you like this series please comment or feel free to let me know that you want to see more of these!

As always,
Shine & Sparkle!


* I am not paid or contacted by any of the companies mentioned in this post.  These are my honest feelings and opinions. 

Top 10 Beautifying Essentials For Your Trip To Maui, Hawaii!

Aloha My Lovely Shine and Sparklers,

Those who follow my Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook know (look in the side bar if you are interested in looking or even *gasp* following me), I have recently taken a vacation to Maui, Hawaii!  I wanted to give you a quick glace at my vacation if you didn't get to see it on social media.  I also wanted to give you my top 10 Beautifying Essentials I realized I wish someone had stressed to me before I went!  Unfortunately I didn't get to fly first class (like I did in this United Airlines First Class Review post).  But I still loveeeeeed my trip.

First, here are a few awesome pictures from my Maui Trip:

Top 10 Beautifying Essentials to bring to Maui, Hawaii:
Reminder: Make sure any large liquids or aerosol containers are in your checked luggage! Don't want to have TSA take your beauty essentials away from you!  Also, a lot of these tips work no matter what your gender is, so I'm adding to my list of "For Him" posts.

1. Water Proof Sunscreen.  By far my #1!  Buy it on sale at home and bring it with you.  Hawaii knows that if you will pay more for sunscreen there so they make the prices higher than I know I want to pay.   Bring your own is economical and necessary to prevent skin damage from the sun.  Vacation is no fun with sun burns.  I suggest going higher in SPF than you normally go, since there is so much sun in Hawaii.
2. Lip Balm with SPF.  Your lips burn can burn just like the rest of your skin.  And honestly, you want to be relaxing and playing in the water.  Not worrying if your lipstick is smudging.  If you really need some color, get a tinted lip balm with SPF of apply a lip stain before your normal SPF lip balm. It's Maui, no need to dark vampy lipsticks here.
3. Very Waterproof eyeliner.  Mascara and eyeshadows probably aren't going to stand up to all day on the beach and in the pool.  But I have been quite successful with the eye liners I detail in my Best Long Wearing Eyeliner for Monolids/Hooded Eyes post.  These barely budged after all day lounging in the chlorinated pool.  Waterslide and all! And nothing helps me feel more confidant in my bikini than a little eye liner. 
4. Swimsuit(s).  I want to mention this because I believe no matter who you are, what size, color, gender, or alien race you are--you should be free to enjoy the water on vacation!  No sitting on the sidelines in your normal clothes because you don't want people to see you. You are amazing and beautiful just the way you are! Nobody is perfect and like every other non-perfect person at the beach/pool, you should enjoy your beach vacation.  Swim away in whatever swimwear you desire little Shine and Sparklers.  It's your vacation, you'll do what you want!  I do suggest bringing more than one, since it takes longer for them to dry in the humidity. Nothing grosser than putting on a damp swim suit in the morning...
5. Sun glasses. Again with the sun protection, I know.  But really, you want to be able to read your book or look at things without hissing like a vampire caught in the sun.  It's really sunny folks.  I'm not kidding.
6. Hair Ties.  If you have long hair, you will really want these to keep your hair from becoming knotted and tangled in the pool.  For medium-long hair, pony tails and if you can do braids/buns work great.  If you have really long hair like me, buns and braids are a must! 
7. Deep Conditioning Hair Masque: All that time in the sun and water can really stress out your hair.  I highly suggest bringing along your favorite deep conditioning hair masque.  It will make life much nicer for your hair.
8. One "Going Out" Outfit: Ok, so not something tight and clubbing-style like you would in Vegas, but maybe a casual pair of heels and a nice flowing dress or skirt top combination.  Just in case you decide to go to a nice Luau or upscale dinner.  Nothing in Maui is super over the top, but it's nice to have an option that isn't a bikini and shorts if you know what I mean.  
9. Nail Polish Refresh Kit: If you are addicted to having your nails colored (like yours truly) bringing the tools to refresh your nails is a must.  All the water will chip your nails faster than a knife fight in a phone booth.  I suggest keeping it really simple with just a nail file, nail polish remover pads (like these pads from E.L.F*), and the polish.  I normally preach about the benefits of base coat and top coat (like in my "How to Get Salon Perfect Nails at Home" post), but for a refresh in the middle of your vacation, you don't want to be spending all that time.  Also, the humidity means nail polish dries much slower. 
10. Intention to Unplug:  My last essential is NOT bringing your media everywhere!  Unplug for the day, everything can wait until you get back to your hotel room at least!  The day of surfing, swimming, and lounging don't need to be bothered by a constant barrage of media from life back home. Really take this time to escape, relax, and center yourself.  If you are on the vacation with others, enjoy your time with them in the moment.  Don't worry about if the rest of the world knows you are enjoying the moment.  Why do you think I missed a blog post *GASP*.    If you HAVE to bring your phone with you to take pictures, I really suggest putting it in airplane mode, to encourage you to avoid the addition to social media and really concentrate on the lovely vacation you are having.

I hope this "Top 10" list helped you out!  I thought it was kind of fun.  Generally speaking I get a bit annoyed with blogs that are always making "Top -insert arbitrary number here-" lists as a way to get people to click on things.  But I thought it might be a fun format for this post.  

Let me know in the comments or other social media if you also get annoyed with the whole "Top 24 Thing-a-ma-bobs For Picking A Wombat-Puppy Hybrid Pet or Your Nose" internet article trend.  And as always,

Shine & Sparkle!

*I am not paid or contacted by any of the companies mentioned in this post.  These are my honest feelings and opinions.  

DIY To Make Your Lotion More Moisturizing!

Hi Shine and Sparkle Readers,

Thank you so much for tuning into this week's quick tip!  Do you have a lotion for your body or face that you wish would hydrate your skin more?  Did you buy a lotion that just doesn't seem to do much?  Here is my life changing tip to get the most benefit out of your lotions/moisturizers:

Add A Few Drops Of Your Favorite Pure Oil!
Depending on the dryness and how large an area you want to moisturize, experiment with adding a few drops of oil to your lotions.  This also works with hair serums! The most important thing is to make sure the oil has preferably only one ingredient--oil. Organic and fragrance free are best.  However, if you can't find certain oils fragrance free or organic, this will still work.

Also, start with only 1-2 drops of oil and see how you like the results.  You may want to add more or less depending on you skin type and condition.

Quick Warning:  If you plan to use make-up over your moisturizer, you might want to skip this tip because oils break down make-up.  This could lead to your make-up easily smudging or reacting strangely.

Suggested Oils:

• Argan Oil (My favorite!)
• Coconut Oil (My second favorite!)
• Olive Oil
• Almond Oil
• Avocado Oil
• Vitamin E Oil (This is often vitamin E suspended in soybean oil, so it's not my first choice, but it does work).

Hooray! Now you have a little tip on how to quickly make your skin that much more moisturized.


As Always,

Shine & Sparkle!

Thank You Shine and Sparkle Report Supporters!

Hi Shine and Sparkle Report Readers!

My GoFundMe fund raiser to promote the blog period has ended and I consider it a great success!  We collectively raised enough to have a short Facebook advertising campaign!  I will update you on how that goes soon!

It really means so much to me to have people who love and support this project of mine.  Your love, support, and readership mean so much to me.  Even if you were not able to donate, I still appreciate every single one of you!  There are a lot of exclamation points in this post, but I think they help express my gratitude and appreciation!

That being said, I promised a special thank you post for all those who (wanted to be listed) that donated to the campaign.  Those who donated enough for gifts should look forward to them arriving in the mail soon.

• Alexis
• Arran
• Doneliya (Project 2gether)

Thank you again!

P.S, Those who noted that I missed my Wednesday post last week, never fear, back to your regularly scheduled programming this week.

Shine & Sparkle!