Creative Beauty Solutions Quick Tip

Hi S+SR Readers!

Here in February, I think people have posted a lot of Spring/Valentines Day related things.  We instead of buying into a consumer culture created holiday, I want to start a whole new S+SR category: "S+SR Tips!"  Today I'm going to be talking about some creative beauty solutions that would even impress Macgyver (linked for anyone who needs a reference point).  So rather than a lengthy chit chat, lets get straight into the tips!

Squiggles the Guinea Pig is quickly becoming a mascot of the S&SR Report!

1) Printer Paper as Blotting Paper:
Blotting paper is sometimes really expensive (not if you use the E.L.F one from this post!)  And let us all admit, we sometimes leave your blotting paper in another purse, or have run out, or it fell down the rabbit hole to who-knows-where.  So you are icky and shiny (not in a Sparkle and Shine way, but a greasy way).  I suggest grabbing any while printer paper (scrap paper, post-it, junk mail, does not really matter) and tearing off a blotting paper sized piece.  Gently press (dont rub or it will take off your make up) on your face (be sure to not get a paper cut or poke yourself in the eye!) and you will see the paper absorb the oil off your face.  I have found this works great in a pinch.  Macgyver better watch out, Ms. Sparkles is in the building!

2) Lipstick/Tinted Lip Products as Blush:
This is a tip you might have gotten from your grandmother, but it is much better than the one about straightening your hair with a clothes iron.  Simply said, draw a line of your lipstick, in a color a bit darker than you want on your cheeks, along your cheek bone.  Then blend it out with your fingers.  Way to make your products do double duty!

3) Cream Eye Shadow/Eyeliner as Eyeshadow Primer:
Using Cream Eye shadows or Eyeliner as a primer is a pretty common occurrence in YouTube tutorials, but I thought I would reiterate it here.  Take whatever color cream eyeshadow or eyeliner you want as a base and build your powder shadow over it.  The stickier textured base will help your eyeshadow look last all day.  I find this works just as well as an eyeshadow primer, though it tends to be a little heavier feeling on the eyes.  Note that a white base will make your powder shadows look the truest to how it looks in the package.  All other colored bases (even your normal skin tone will affect the way the shadow looks on your eyes.  Mini Tip:  Many eye creams have a similar texture and feel to eyeshadow primer.  If you use an eye cream, try using this as your primer instead.  I find my Burt's Bees Radiance Eye Cream with Royal Jelly works great as a primer too!

4) Hair Conditioner as Shaving Cream:
I am in progress of becoming a certified product junkie.  In this venture I have tried quite a few more products than the average person.  Some work, and some do not.  While it is possible to return some products if you do not like them, it takes a good amount of product to fully test shampoos and conditioners.  I don't think you can return a conditioner if you used 1/3 of it.  So what do I do with conditioners I have decided don't work for my hair?  I use them as shaving cream.  It works really well and leaves my legs very soft.  I'm not particularly prone to razor burns, but I actually find that my skin is much happier using conditioner over shaving cream.  I still like to use my target brand soy shaving creme (which is supposed to slow the regrowth of the hairs) but using up my conditioner this way puts the product to good use.  (Yey not being wasteful!)

5) Shampoo as Make-Up Brush Cleaner:
In the same way I don't like to waste my conditioner duds, I also don't like to waste my shampoo duds.  Can the shampoo clean my make up brushes and body?  Yep.  Can about 1/3 a cup in the bath or 1/4 a cup in a foot soak leave you feeling soft and clean? Yep.  The best use depends on how sudsy and moisturizing the shampoo is.


6) Hair Conditioners + Water as a De-tangler:
For my last tip, You can take your favorite conditioner or leave-in cream conditioner.  Use about 1 tbs in a spray bottle with 1.5 cups of water and use as a detangler or light weight spray leave in conditioner.  If you find it weighing your hair down, add more water or less conditioner =)

Do you feel sufficiently creative?  You should!.


 Shine & Sparkle!

Yes to Blueberries Shampoo (and associated products) Rant

Hi S&SR Readers,

Sometimes a girl needs to chat with her readers.  Well, in this case, more like rant.  I have an on going love hate relationship with the San Francisco based "Yes to Insert Fruit of Vegetable" brand products*.  For instance, I love the Yes To Cucumber Facial Wipes. I also like the Yes to Cucumber Shampoo (the original formula).  In general, I love how few ingreditents there are in this company's products.  I love that they try and be as paraben-free, non-comedogenic, and natural/organic as possible.  That being said, they are not perfect.

I have recently found the Cucumber-Mint Lip Balm to be about 3 of 5 stars.  It was ok, not amazing.  I have yet to try the Cucumber facial mask that also came in an on sale gift pack.

Now, for the negative perspective.  I hate that they are constantly changing their formulas.  For instance, there is the original Yes To Cucumbers Shampoo and Conditioner.  The Shampoo I love, but they have recently altered the formula and I'm not sure how it is going to go when I can't get it on amazon anymore. Also, the Yes to Blueberries Voluminzing Shampoo and Conditioners (which I know a friend of mine is liking)  have now been replaced with "repairing" blueberry formula.  WTF guys?!

There are also simply PRODUCTS I HATE:

Yes To Cucumbers Conditioner (Original Formula):  
This contained Sodium Hydroxide.  This is lye.  It is used in chemical relaxers to make curly/frizzy hair straight.  It can burn and cause permanent damage to the skin.  Though it is one of the last ingredients in this conditioner.  It made my hair feel really soft, but was damaging it to do so.  Not cool.  What do I do with it? I shave my legs with it.  I would love to see my leg hair be softer and fall out  more easily.  Is it the best for my skin? Probably not, but at least I'm not wasting money.  Plus, I will not be repurchasing, so how much damage can one bottle for shaving do anyway =P ?

On this note, I am happy that they have changed the Yest To Cucumber's Conditioner Formula.  I will be trying this soon.  It seems to contain mainly stabilized natural oil.  There are some reviews that it makes hair super greasy. I hope this isn't the case.  Otherwise, I'll be set for leg shaving for the next 2 years....

Yes to Tomatoes Facial Cleanser:
Supposedly tomatoes help fight acne.  Not in this cleaner.  It was terrible.  It made me break out and look like bees had attacked my face.  It left tons of make-up on my skin after 2 through washings.  I looked like a racoon.  Lastly, it lathered as well as water from a puddle.  If I wanted to look like nature attacked my face, I would have gone camping without a tent and covered in honey.

Yes to Blueberries Repairing Shampoo (New Formula):
I was curious about a repairing natural shampoo since I love the cucumber one.  In my obsessive label reading, I some how missed that this isn't sulfate free!  I just assumed because, it's a Yes To Editble Things brand shampoo product!  How could I have missed Lauryl or Laureth Sulfate?  Because it said "Coco Sulfate."  Aw, I love coconut oil, so how bad can coco sulfate be?  After a bit of research I found out that:

"The difference is really one of purification. Coconut oil is made up of a wide range of fatty acids. They can have as few as 8 carbon atoms and as many as 20. The majority of the fatty acids are of the 12 carbon variety. That means 45-50% of coconut oil is a fatty acid containing 12 carbons.

When manufacturers make their sulfate detergents they can take pure coconut oil and run the "sulfating" reaction to produce Sodium Coco-sulfate.

However, this material doesn't foam as well and will vary depending on the quality of the coconut crops harvested that year.

Sodium Lauryl sulfate is really just a purified version of the same material. In this case they take the coconut oil and remove most of the non-12 carbon fatty acids. Their starting material is then about 80% C-12 instead of 45-50% C-12.

Ultimately, both products are primarily C-12 or Sodium Lauryl Sulfate so they get the same CAS number. However, pure SLS is more efficient and of more reliable quality so most manufacturers use this."

While somebody's re-posting of information on their livejournal is not a very reputable source of information, I found it to be the most clearly written explanation.  Needless to say, I find this to be very disappointing.  I have to walk back to the drug store and return it.  *sigh*.  That being said, I am quite excited to try the Yes to Blueberries Conditioner.

If you can't tell, I have been on the quest for a perfect "frequent" conditioner.  I love my Aussie 3 Minute Miracle for deep conditioning.  And I still like my Paul Mitchell Thickening Conditioner as a light conditioner.  I'm still liking my leave in conditioners as well.  But I have been displeased with all of my attempts for a regular conditioner that is gentle, affordable, and effective.  My Neutrogena Triple Moisture Daily Conditioner seems to have a few too many silicones for someone who likes using shine serums (basically concentrated silicone.)  And other attempts have been underwheming.

Leave a comment below if you are interested in knowing of how my Yes To Cucumbers Conditioner (New Formula) and Yes to Blueberries Repairing Conditioner turn out.

</rant>

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

 Shine & Sparkle!

Make-Up 101: Mascara (including Healthier Options!)

Hey There S+SR Readers!

I know it has been a while since I've done a more "traditional" S+SR post.  The S+SR Think Tank (consisting of on Ms. Sparkles, a guinea pig named Squiggles and a hamster named Atherton) has been hard at work coming up with great post ideas.  Well not only did my furry friends help me think of this post, they encouraged me to be artistic for this post image.  Do you like it? 

Hey, check it out, this image is property of Shine and Sparkle Report: Beauty Blog! If you want to use it, just let me, the hamster, and the guinea pig know =)

Now I'm sure that most of you have never put a whole lot of thought into mascaras (or maybe you have).  Perhaps you thought "Brown or Black?" or "Water-proof or Not?"  Having relatively pathetic and puny lashes means that I'm always trying to balance what makes them look good with ones that wont over dry or make my lashes fall out.  I have explored the gamut of "healthy" mascaras and have some great recommendations for all price ranges.  That being said, this is S+SR folks, lets start with the basics.

The Basics: 
Mascara is a mix of chemicals that coats your lashes to make them look longer and fuller.  There are two main attributes to any mascara--The formula and the brush/wand applicator.  Below I detail the most common ones to help you navigate those beauty isles.

1) The Formula-

• Lengthening vs. Volumizing:  Most mascaras are aimed at either adding length (typically a more stiff feel, these make each lash appear longer-often with added fibers) or volumizing (typically softer to the touch and make each lash appear thicker.)
• Water-Proof vs. Not Water-Proof:  In a nut shell, I don't recommend water-proof mascaras unless you are going to be swimming, sweating profusely, or participating in a slip-n'-slide competition (yeah that exists, Google it).  This is because good non-waterproof mascaras have come a long way over the years in the "not smudging" category.  If your mascara smudges from daily wear to the office, you need to find a better mascara.  Also, waterpoof mascaras seal around your lashes and tend to dry them out.  Lastly, the extra effort it takes to remove waterproof mascaras can irritate the delicate eye skin and cause more lash fall-out.  Boo!
• Color: Get whatever color floats your boat.  Black and brown are the most common, but if you feel like purple eyelashes, go for it! 

2) The Brush/Applicator-

•  Classic Bristle vs. Molded Plastic:  This is purely a preference thing.  I personally think that the classic bristle is better at applying more product for a voluminous effect.  I think that the molded plastic applicators are better at separating each lash to lengthen.
• Brush Shape/Size:  Like above, it is a personal preference thing. I typically find that rather than any one being "the best" some just really suck.  For instance, "U" shaped applicator tend to just get mascara all over my face.  Maybe they work great for you, but I typically look like a dalmatian if I try and use a "U" shaped applicator.  I tend to prefer classic or tapered ones instead.   In general, smaller applicators allow you to more easily get those tiny lashes in the corners, while bigger ones can be much faster as you stumble around trying to get ready in the morning. Mini Tip: Apply mascara with the brush turned vertically to get more product on your lashes, then go back to the classic horizontal motion to distribute evenly!

How Much Should I Spend on Mascara?
Ah dear reader, call me sacrilegious but I think you shouldn't spend more than $10 on a mascara.  Why? Because, I have never had a expensive mascara that does any better a job than a good cheap one.  Want another reason?  You should be replacing your mascara every 3-5 months.  For other make-up products I don't think expiration is a large concern (other than for super sensitive skin or acne sufferers.)  But mascara is on your eyelashes which are constantly blinking over your warm moist eyes.  Basically, mascaras are the most likely to result in eye infection/irritation.  I'm not a doctor but I think it is a bit of good ol' common sense. 

I Have Super Puny Lashes Too.  How Can I Make Them Shine and Sparkle?
If you have super full lashes already, your choice in mascara is much easier.  Find a formula and brush/applicator that you love! Done!  If your lashes could use a helping hand, here are some healthier mascara factors to consider (all are much cheaper and less scary than Latisee!). 

•  Paraben-Free: I have talked a lot on this blog about parabens being used in cosmetics to help preserve them.  That being said, major irritants/harsh chemicals on my puny lashes?  As little as possible please.
• Nutrient Enriched: Many mascaras are now adding proteins, vitamins and other conditioners to give lashes some help.  A good one will leave your lashes feeling super soft after you remove them.  Want to make them feel even softer after make-up removal? Check out my make-up removal method in my Coconut Oil Post!
• Natural Hair Growth Stimulators: While not medically proven, I still don't think these natural stimulants can hurt.  For example, one of the products I mention next has wheat grass extract.  This is a natural alternative to caffeine and could possibly help encourage your lashes to grow.

I'm not saying that you shouldn't use waterproof, fiber, chemically mascara (over giant fake lashes) that makes you look like Eva Longoria for those special occasions, but for everyday, I like a more healthy approach. 

Healthy Mascara Product Recommendations:

Cheap Option: Almay "Get Up and Grow" Mascara ($9):
This is my favorite mascara ever.  It is more of a volumizing mascara.  It is very build-able (meaning apply one coat, wait a few seconds, add another coat for for extra volume, clump free!).  This brush is kind of hour glass shaped which is perfect for my small almond shaped eyes as well.

More Expensive Option: Lush "Eyes Right" Mascara ($19):
This brush isn't my favorite, definitely use my mini tip above!  You do get quite a bit of product for your money (5 grams as opposed to they typical 1-2 grams).  This mascara is better for lengthening than it is for volume.  You really need at least 2 coats, maybe more.  I actually really like layering it under my Almay "Get Up and Grow" for maximum healthy impact.

Less Healthy Mascara Product Recommendations:

Cheap Option: L'Oreal "Voluminous False Fiber Lashes" Mascara ($9):
BOOM! Kim Kardashian?  Where did you come from?

More Expensive Option: Clinique "High Impact" Mascara ($16):
Marketed as a volumizing mascara, I think it does both volume and length very well.  The formula on this is fantastic.  I got this as a trial size in a set of 20 samples from Sephora.  It was my favorite thing in the whole lot.  I used up every last drop of the sample.  I plan to buy the full size when I need a new mascara.  For now, I will simply encourage you to check it out!

Shine & Sparkle!

Happy 2013 New Years Resolution Time!

Happy New Year S+SR Readers!

According to my news source, the #1 New Years Resolution people make is to"Lose Weight."  As someone who has always been hyper aware of body image, not only for myself but people in general, I wanted to touch on this topic for my lovely readers.

For real right? As usual, like my last stock image, I'll gladly give someone credit for their image or take it down if whoever owns it throws a hissy fit.

First, I wanted to say that despite how cliche it sounds, you really have to love yourself first.  No resolution is going to make you change if you do not feel like you want to do it out of love for yourself.  Losing weight because of what others think, or wanting to be like someone else (celebrity, model, etc) is simply not going to work.  You to need to want to do it because you want it for you.

Next, I'm going to make a huge disclaimer that I'm not a physician (hell, I had to just spell check that word), nutritionist (other than one class in college), or qualified in any official way to give advice on weightloss/heath.  Really, this is all from my personal experience, research and passion for learning about what it takes to be the best (and healthiest) me possible.

If you simply Google "weight loss tips," "how to lose weight fast," "how to get fit," "how to eat healthy" or "how to transform with a magic pill into your favorite celebrity body," I'm sure you will be flooded with information.  In a nutshell, it will contain lots of eating or exercise information (or scams).  I'm sure you can get quite a few more select bits of information from books or flyers.  Rather than a report style post I want to give you 5 realistic things that I do that have the biggest impact. So, without further rambling, here are  5 Things that will help you achieve you weight loss/health New Years Resolutions:

1) Drink Water Based Drinks That Are Not Sweet.
This does include water.  But overall, drinking all those extra calories is just not helpful.  Drink water, tea, ice tea, coffee, lemon/lime/orange/cucumber infused water, pretty much anything that is primarily water and unsweetened.  If you simply have to have sugary taste, add some no calorie natural sweetener (stevia, truvia, etc).  I like this tip because you still get your caffeine and flavored drinks so it doesn't feel like dieting (there are A MILLION tea flavors from fruit to chocolate, so go crazy).  Upset you can't drink sodae? Have you seen that video about what soda did to an egg?!  In addition, sneaky bad drinks include sports drinks, juice, and vitamin water.  All of those have tons of sugar.  Why no "diet" drinks?  Because the debate about fake sugars is so confusing that I figure it's better to avoid them when possible.  Can you drink the "bad" drinks in moderation? Sure.  I try limit drinking these beverages to social situations and weekends.  This works for me, but find what works for you.

2) Move More...Forever.
I'm not telling you to slave away at the gym like everyone else in January.  You probably wont do that forever.  How do I know?  I happen to enjoy the gym, and see the rush of people who come in January....then a month later, the gym is back to normal levels of people who actually enjoy the gym.  If you like the gym, by all means, go; but my tip is--just mean move more. Litterally.  Take the stairs (or walk up the escalator). Park farther away from where you are going so you walk a bit farther.  Vacuum your house more often.  Take the dog for a walk. Chase your kids around or go outside to parks, museums, or other cool stuff in your area that means moving around.  Get up from your desk and walk to the copy room or the bathroom more in between breaks.  Hell, bring your lunch and walk around during your lunch break (you can pack healthier lunches and work on that #2 "save money" resolution at the same time!)  If you are a video game nerd, try Fitness or Dance games.  Start small.  Make the goal "moving more" rather than "I have to start living at the gym, worshiping the gym gods and ignore life until I look like The Hulk."  It's about becoming a more active person in general.  You can do it! 

3) Eat More Real Food.
Remember when your mom said "eat more fruits and vegetables"?  Yeah that.  I don't mean eat only salads like a rabbit (even if you did, a lot of dressings and toppings have lots of calories).  When it comes down to it, how long are you really going to eat nothing but raw veggies?  I really just try and think about there being something healthy, highly nutritious, and non-processed in every meal (no tomato sauce and ketchup don't count).  How do you know what counts? Anything fresh are colorful-red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple.  (carrots, bell peppers, apples, broccoli, spinach, egg plant, fresh tomato, blueberries, strawberries.)  Things that dont count tend to be brown, or white (bread, potatoes, pasta, noodles etc.)  As for meat (my man says he won't eat a meal that does not contain something that had a mother) the best way to go is lean proteins like chicken, fish, and buffalo.  No really, buffalo is pretty darn healthy.  And sadly, even though Cheetos are orange, they are not fresh or healthy =(

4) Smaller Portions and Fresher/high fiber Ingredients.
So if you are adding at least one fresh colorful thing to each meal, but not cutting out all other things, how are we still going to maintain a healthy weight?  Smaller portions of what you love and fresher ingredients.  So rather than a frozen pizza or delivery pizza (which is mostly frozen stuff anyway)--try making one from fresh premade dough, with real cheese, some veggies, and grilled chicken.  Rather than eating the whole thing, eat 1/2 -2/3 what you would normally eat.  If you are going to eat pasta, bread, rice, go for high fiber versions like whole wheat pasta and bread or brown rice. Same with eating out.  Instead of fast food, try a mom and pop that makes fresh burgers.  Even when eating fast food, think about going for items that involve the least processing (this might be salad, instant oatmeal, yogurt, etc.)  If you normally order a large fries, order a small or medium. Slowly your stomach will not get as hungry because of the extra fiber and nutrition in real foods and less food will seem normal. Slowly you can add more and more fresh/real foods, but you can still have the foods you love in moderation.  Hooray for that sliver of chocolate cake!  Great tips for portion control include sharing food with dining partners, taking food home, or saving some homemade food for lunch the next day!

5)  Find Your Motivation.
I want to lose weight...because I should.   This reason, while valid, is not going to motivate you to have will power.  Will power is what is needed to only eat a handful of M&Ms.  Will power is what is needed to switch from playing Halo to Just Dance.  Will power is what is needed to bother chopping up some spinach to put into your frozen meal or pack your lunch.  You need to find what gives you that will power.  Is it being around to see you kids, grand children, or tortoise grow up?  Is it wanting to set a good example for your students, friends, or family?  Is it that you are being chased by a T-rex?  Whatever it is, take a moment to try and find what it is that will give you the will power to actually make changes, however small those changes are.  Trust me, it's worth it.  

Bonus Tip: I like giving myself small challenges like "No Fried Food Fridays" for a month.  I always set a reasonable end point for these sorts of challenges so I stick with it and feel accomplished. I can always extend the challenges if it works out well, or A.D.D to another challenge (like exercising really hard at least once a week).  This might just be a personality thing, but I like doing it.  For example, I also made up "No Make-up Wednesdays" to let my skin breathe and remind myself that beauty is from the inside, not a tube of eyeliner. Despite what the media might tell you about the necessity of beauty products, my "No Make up Wednesday" is just like every other day....honestly, I tend to be lazy and have more than just Wednesdays without make up ;D Ok Ms. Sparkles, time to end this tangent. 

Overall, changing will seem hard at first but soon you will start feeling better.  You will start seeing results.  It's ok to not be perfect, just keep at it!  Who knows you might become a granola eating health freak that can bench an elephant.  But before that, try small steps and see how it makes you....

Shine & Sparkle!  

2012 Chairty of the Year!

Seasons Greetings Post #2!

Hello again my beloved Shine and Sparkle Report readers!

It is the holiday season. People are rushing around frantically acquiring gifts for their loved ones. They are primping and preening in front of mirrors for holiday parties, shopping trips, and other festivities. While lots of beauty bloggers and enthusiasts are telling you about the latest trends attacked by the glitter gods, I want to take this time to draw some attention to those less fortunate.

I think part of being a beautiful person is appreciating what you have. The holidays in the Western world seem to emphasize consumerism. Thus, I will try and off set this with a little plug for the Shine and Sparkle Report: Charity of The Year (I think I will continue to do this every year around the holidays.)

I would now like to introduce to you, PROJECT PEANUT BUTTER!

Click Here! For an awesome video about Project Peanut Butter, as well as how to donate.

So, why Project Peanut Butter? (The following was quoted from Project Peanut Butter's Official Organization Statement)

Mission
Project Peanut Butter (PPB) seeks to advance the treatment of childhood malnutrition, the greatest contributor to child mortality in the world today, using effective, locally produced ready-to-use therapeutic foods.This corporation is formed to provide needed nutritional and medical support to children and adults suffering from severe malnutrition in sub-Saharan Africa and beyond.

Programs and Activities
Project Peanut Butter was formed to treat moderately and severely malnourished children and adults in sub-Saharan Africa, and other countries as needed. We provide locally reduced RUTF (Ready-To-Use-Therpeutic Food), and improve distribution through education and training of local clinical offices and health providers. Project Peanut Butter has facilities in Malawi, Sierra Leone, and a new start-up program in Mali. We have a partnership with clinics in Payatas, Philippines. They serve as the the advisor to several small programs and orphanages that produce or distribute RUTF for use in their programs. Also, Project Peanut Butter continues to contribute to the irradication of malnutrition through improved formulas for treatment of target groups, such as HIV+ Adults. Since the use of RUTF began in the treatment of malnutrition, recovery rates have skyrocket from 25-40% to 90-95%. We strive to improve this rate through improved recipes and improved distribution compliance.

Shine and Sparkle readers, if this is not convincing enough to get you to consider a donation to Project Peanut butter, only 1.5% of your donation is used for administrative costs. Also, for just $25, a child's life is saved! How rad is that? If you don't have the means to donate, that is ok. Just tell someone about PPB. They spend no money on advertising or soliciting donations, so if you just mention PPB to someone, you are helping a ton!

S+SR Giving Challenge!
Did you know that just by reading this post, you could save a child through PPB? Here is how it works:

1. Share this post! Either on Facebook, Google Plus, Twitter, Email,...anything else you can think of.
2. Comment on this post about where you shared it (honor system guys) as well as any other charities you think I should look into (possibly for next year's SSR Charity of the Year?) 
3. If we reach over 25 comments on this post, I will personally donate an extra $25 to PPB on behalf of the Shine and Sparkle Report! 

Thank you so much Shine and Sparkle Report readers! Together we can give the world a little extra shine and sparkle!


Shine & Sparkle! 

A last note, I'm in no way affiliated with PPB. I came across them completely by chance and I have been a huge fan ever sense.

Online Beauty Subscription Service Reviews

Seasons Greetings Shine and Sparklers!

Welcome to the S+SR special online beauty subscription holiday shopping edition! As the holidays approach, gifts are on everyone's minds.  I wanted to break down the most popular online beauty/fashion online subscription services for you guys.  No matter if it is a subscription gift for another person, a way to divide up the things you get to give as gifts, test products to give as gifts, or simply do a whole lot of gifting to yourself; this guide should help you decide what kind of subscription service would work best for you.

Mountains of Products for Less?  Yes Please! As usual, like my last stock image, I'll gladly give someone credit for their image or take it down if whoever owns it throws a hissy fit.

What is an Online Beauty Subscription Service?
I'm glad you asked dear reader!  In a nutshell, for a monthly fee, you get products.  The beauty subscriptions allow you to try new products at a fraction of the cost. Fashion ones allow you to get the latest trends for a fraction of the typical cost.  Most services have you take a quiz so they can customize what you get to better fit your complexion, needs, and style.

Each site has their own types of products and systems so it can get really confusing.  That is what I'm here for!

Other Than My Beloved S+SR, where can I See Examples of the Things Typically in the Subscription?
Their website!  =P Or, if you YouTube the name of the service, there are tons of people who do "unboxing" videos of their subscriptions.  They will often describe or review what they got as well.  Not to mention you can find codes for introductory deals if you sign up.  Go.  Spend your life on youtube.  Check out "No No Cat" while you are at it.

S+SR Recommended (and not) Beauty Subscription Services:

Ipsy (Formerly Glam Bag):

• Price: $10/month.  Discounts for buying multiple months at a time.
• Types of Product: Once a month you get a different little make up bag.  In the bag are 4-5 deluxe sample or full size beauty products (primarily make-up, skin, hair, and nails). 
• How it Works: Sign Up.  Pay Monthly.  Get stuff in the mail.  So simple right?
• Skipping a month: Ipsy does not let you skip a month.  You must cancel before the end of the month to not be charged for your next bag.
• Rewards program: Nope.  You get what you get.  There is no advantage to being a member or encouraging your friends to sign up.
• S+SR Approved?  YES! Simple, elegant, cheap.  I have received 2 months of Ipsy and I am very pleased.  The make-up cases have bee good quality and cute.  The products have been high end and I have been happy with most of the items I have gotten.  The fey I have not like were because they were not right for my skin tone--despite the quiz. I gave them to my fair skinned BFF so it's a win win.
• Where You Sign Up: www.ipsy.com 

Beauty Subsciption Like Ipsy but are NOT Recommended:

• Glossy Box:  While almost identical in concept to Ipsy, it is $21.  Yes, it has much prettier packaging, but the samples appear to be smaller (not just deluxe and full size items) and I just have not seen many products that I have been excited about in any of the numerous "unboxing" videos I have looked at.  If you are still interested in a Glossy Box, their link is www.glossybox.com
• Birch Box:  Also identical in process to Ipsy, it is also $10 like Ipsy.  You do not get a cool make up bag, you just get a brown box.  Another difference is they include "Lifestyle" items.  This can include band-aids, food samples, stain solution, fashion tape, tooth paste....you get the idea.  I mostly did not chose this box because I rather get a cute make up bag and not get tooth paste.  Maybe you really feel passionately about trying new toothpaste.  I dont.  If you are really into getting granola bars with your beauty products, check it out at www.birchbox.com
• Beauty Fix: $50?! (don't get fooled by that $49.99 is cheaper stuff).  So for more money you get 8 deluxe or full size items.  You also get to pick which ones you want from a gallery of items that their experts pick for you. Maybe the concept of more choice and more products is worth an extra $30-$40 to you.  It isn't to me.  If this service speaks to you (or you are simply more affluent than Ms. Sparkles) check it out at www.beautyfix.com

Other Cool Subscription Service Sites:
Now that you are super interested in subscribing to a beauty service, I wanted to quickly point out a few more sites that have really cool concepts.  I have personally tried them all and will give you a quick review.

Little Black Bag (LLB):

• Price: $30 or $50/month. 
• Types of Product: Mostly handbags, accessories, and jewelry.  Some home decor, apparel, and make-up.  There are a ton of brand name designers that participate in this site.  Some things are popular high quality brands (Betsy Johnson, French Connection, Steve Madden, Kenneth Jay Lane, Deux Lux--just to give you a flavor).  However, there are some items that are more cheaply made.  There are also some items that they tell you are worth a certain amount retail, but are on sale else where so the actual cost is less than the rate they say.  That being said, I still love it.
• How it Works: Complicated, time intensive, ADDICTIVE.  In a nutshell, you pay monthly for either a $30 or $50 box.  You get to pick your first item (up to $70% off of retail) from your customized show room.  Then you get to see the other items selected by LLB (or the designers of the surprise items) before purchasing the box.  Now the fun part-- you get to trade online.  You can trade that crappy colored nail polish for one you like.  You can trade 2 earrings you hate for a bag you love, the possibilities are as endless as the number of women trading on the site.  The website is easy to use and facilitates great trades.  The $30 bag gets 3 days of trading, $50 gets 6 days.  By the time I finished with my first $50 box (with extra items due to first time sign up I had saved over $170 off of retail.  I'm still working on trading with my second box, but I'm looking at saving over $120 with fewer items to start with.   
• Skipping a month: Yep!  If you want to skip or cancel you can.  For $10 more you can do this without subscribing at all.
• Rewards program: Yes, you can get extra items in your box by having friends sign up.
• S+SR Approved?  YES! Oh so addictive.  You have to be careful to really think about what you want and what you will actually wear/use because you get really caught up when people send you multiple items for your one item.  The psychology major in me loves trying to predict how I can trade to get more expensive things I want by trading less expensive ones.  Yeah....it's addictive.
• Where You Sign Up: With my referral link if you would be so kind for  www.littleblackbag.com (This is the Sparkles Referral Link)

Julep Maven: $20/month.  I tried this during a "try for a penny" deal and then canceled.  You get 2 Julep Brand nail polishes and one other item (foot cream, nail file etc.)  I tried the polishes.  They were simply ok.  They have nice colors and good ingredients.  But I found that they took a long time to dry and in general, were not worth $20 a month, considering I am satisfied with the nail polish I get for much less.  If you are a nail addict, think this is fun, and want two new colors every month, be my guest at www.julep.com 

Just Fab:  $40 for anything you see on the site.  You have a customized shopping closet but you are free to roam to vast selection of shoes, handbags, jewelry, and other accessories for just $40 per item.  They typically have sales and promotions so you can get things for less.  I have been really happy with the quality of my shoes and clutches I have gotten so far.  You have to skip by the 5th of the month if you do not want to get charged for a $40 credit.  They really have cute stuff that is great for getting the latest trends for less.  If you decide to sign up, I'd love if you used this referral link to www.justfab.com (This is the Sparkles Referral Link).   

Shoe Dazzle: It used to be identical to Just Fab.  Now it has things that are more expensive than $40, have less good deals, and the products just are not as cute.  I would have highly recommend them as well until the recent changes.  If you would basically like a crappier version of Just Fab, check them out at www.shoedazzle.com


I hope that my online shopping obsession has helped you navigate the confusing (yet awesome) world of online beauty/fashion subscription services.  Maybe someone will be getting something from your Little Black Bag Christmas ;D


Shine & Sparkle! 

DIY with the Magical Coconut Oil

Seasons Greetings S+SR Readers!

Two posts in less than a week?!  A miracle, I know.  Much like the presence of this post, the content is about a miracle product.  Coconut Oil!  I really cannot rave enough about coconut oil.  It has so many great applications, from beauty to cooking.  In addition, it is very affordable and natural.  No ingredients you can't pronounce, just coconut oil.

Trader Joe's Coconut Oil ($6) As usual, like my last stock image, I'll gladly give someone credit for their image or take it down if whoever owns it throws a hissy fit.

The Basics:
Coconut oil is made from extracting the oils out of a coconut.  It is a solid at room temperature, but easily turns into a liquid with just body heat, a hot day, or a zap in the microwave.  Not all coconut oils are created equal, some coconut oil is extracted using high heat, chemicals and even bleach.  This is why I suggest a virgin and organic coconut oil.  Much like the Trader Joe's one shown above.  That huge jar costs around $6 and will last forever! 

Benefits List:
Ms. Sparkles, why should I consider adding coconut oil to my beauty routines?  Well dear reader, I'm glad you asked.

• Antibacterial and Antimicrobial- As a result of the saturated fats in coconut oil, it aids in killing bacteria and fungi (gross but cool right?)  This is great for treating skin conditions such as eczema and dandruff.
•  Low Molecular Weight- Why do you care about this?  Unlike other oils (almond, caster, jojoba, olive, etc) used in beauty applications, coconut oil is very light.  This means that it does the best job at absorbing into the hair shaft.  
• Moisturizing- This oil is great for replacing oils lost in skin, hair, and nails.  Oils are great for locking in moisture right after a bath or shower as well.
• Economical Luxury- Many high end beauty products (especially the more natural ones) often use some derivative of coconut oil.  Why not jump directly to the source?  And hey, it doesn't hurt that it smells like fruity cocktails on the beach right?

Sparkles Tested and Approved Uses:  
Now you have been convinced to get some organic virgin coconut oil, you have this jar and you don't know where to start.  Well here are some of my favorite uses for coconut oil.

1. Make-Up Remover:  This is my #1 make-up remover method.  I simply take a baby wipe (I like all natural, ones like Seventh Generation Free & Clear Baby Wipes)  and run a part of it in the still solid coconut oil.  I use the babywipe + coconut oil (which liquifies upon contact with the warmth of your skin) to remove all traces of eye/face make-up in a jiffy.  The antimicrobial properties help reduce the chances of a break out and add moisture to my skin as it takes away even the most waterproof mascaras.  Win all around!  If you don't have a baby wipe, any cotton pad + coconut oil will work as well.  I just like the extra cleaning power/surface area that comes with the baby wipe.  Warning: Try not to get it IN your eye, it isn't pleasant but it is not as bad as some of those super chemically products out there (which don't work nearly as well if you ask me).
2. Eyelash Growth/Eye-Brightening Serum: I have puny eyelashes.  I have found that taking a really tiny bit of coconut oil on a Q-tip and running along my eyelash line and lightly coating my lashes has really helped them grow fuller.  I have also noticed that if I simply run a cotton pad with a small amount the oil over my whole eye area before bed, they look much brighter the next day (2 results for the price of 1 action!)  I am not sure how this works on wrinkles, but hey it is way more economical than eye creams and is worth a try.  If you have more fine lines/wrinkles and try this, let me know how it goes!  Being all natural, I'm sure you could also use coconut oil in conjunction with your favorite eye creams.
3. Cuticle Oil/Nail Conditioner:  Obsessive nail painting can leave nails and cuticles dry.  My favorite thing to do when I'm wearing my natural nails (to give them a break) is to apply coconut oil to my nails and cuticles before bed.  Hey, while you are at it, might as well put some on your whole hands as a hand moisturizer too.
4. Rough Patch/All Over Skin Moisturizer:  If you are planning on going out, I would just use this on your rough patches (knees, elbows etc.) to avoid looking greasy.  If you have having an at home spa day, go ahead and put a light coat of this on your whole body after you get out of the shower.  You wont regret it.
5. Hair Oil/Dandruff Treatment : I find it easiest to warm a tablespoon or two of the oil in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.  Brush/comb out any hair tangles.   Then I use my fingers to rub the oil into my scalp in sections.  Lastly I run my hands through my ends with any remaining oil.  I put on a shower cap (or plastic bag) and sit around for as long as I can stand (or over night if you are more tolerant of things on your head than me).  Shampoo out the oil (you will probably have to shampoo twice to make sure your hair is not greasy).  I like to use a very light conditioner afterwards, but this is not necessary.  I do this once every 2 weeks but if you have severely dry, damaged, or frizzy hair, once a week is fine too.  Though this may seem labor intensive, if you have dry or damaged hair, you will be shocked at how amazing the results are.  Oh the smoothness!
6. Hair Shine Serum:  Not feeling the heavy silicone shine products in your hair?  I can understand.  Silicone is one of the most debated beauty ingredients (let me know if you are interested in a post about the great silicone debates).  A great alternative is a TINY amount of coconut oil.  Either before or after drying, take 1/2 a dime sized amount and emulsify it in your hands. Apply to hair and let the magic happen. 

Hope this helped inspire you to consider using coconut oil.  I really love all the uses for it (there are even more but I haven't tried them).  I also love the affordability and overall effectiveness of this oil.  When it comes to beauty, I often feel that less is more--this is certainly true of coconut oil!

Shine & Sparkle!