July Non-beauty Favorites

Fuschia purple orchid in our bedroom

John Irving's Last Night in Twisted River

Aloha's Popsicle and Strawberry Daiquiri votive candles

Tulsi Raspberry Peach and Vanilla Creme herbal tea

Homemade vegan spelt muffins

What are your non-beauty related favorites this month? xxx

July Beauty Favorites

Another month's gone in the blink of an eye! In all honesty, July wasn't a big make-up month for me; housewifing and weekend hiking trips don't really require a face full of make-up. However, with moving to the US, I've been able to put some bits and bobs into my basket while shopping at a drugstore - have I told you how much I love American drugstores?


Without further ado, here are my new most used products for the month of July:


1. 100% Pure Fruit Pigmented Tinted Moisturizer with vitamins and antioxidants SPF 20
I've briefly mentioned in my post on natural vs organic skincare that I was intending to get it, and I did. It comes with a hefty pricetag ($32 US), but other than that, I have no complaints. It has a light coverage and very natural satin finish, blends in beautifully leaving my skin more unified, and so, so soft. I set it with a mineral powder and it doesn't make me any oilier than I usually am, nor does it break me out. Perfect base for summer.


2. Angel Face Botanicals Ambrosia Facial Cleansing Grains
On the skincare front, I'm loving this loose powder chockful of Vitamin C and antioxidants that with a couple of drops of water transforms into an exfoliating cleanser or a face mask - it's definitely one of my favorite products from the ones I mentioned in my Angel Face Botanicals haul. I especially like using it after a cardio workout, I feel that it gets rid of all the dirt and dead skin cells that accumulated on my face and stimulates blood circulation, making my skin feel clean, refreshed and mattified.


3. N.Y.C. Blushable Creme Stick in Plaza Pink
As much as eye products left me rather uninspired this month, I've been enjoying experimenting with my blusher. I picked this up for about $4 in my local RiteAid on Ginabinawina99's recommendation, and I so don't regret it. I was thinking that my oily skin plus cream blusher would surely equal a major catastrophe. Nothing of the sort! This beautiful peach stick shot through with subtle shimmer goes on like a dream and blends to perfection, giving my cheeks a very lovely natural glow without a trace of greasiness, as it sets to powder finish. It's not the most long lasting, but set with a powder blusher, stays put long enough for me. Not ready to splurge on NARS Turks & Caicos multiple? This satisfies my cream blush stick cravings pretty well.


4. NYX Powder blusher in Peach and Pinky
I think I've expressed my love for NYX blushers many times before, and these two shades have been a very welcome addition to my collection. Peach looks very natural and understated with its matte finish, while fuschia toned Pinky with its satin finish gives more of a doll face effect (or as if you've been running for a good half an hour in my case).


5. Wet n Wild Kohl Brow Eyeliner in Taupe
At $0.99 apiece, it may just be the cheapest item in my collection, however this soft brow pencil shouldn't be underestimated. What can I say? It's dirt cheap, easy to use, fast and natural-looking. Doesn't smudge or melt off. Are you still there?! Go get yourself one of these!


6. Revlon Colorstay Mineral Lipglaze in Continuous Coral
Continuously fabulous, however difficult to spell it may be. This is a seriously scorching coral, dense, incredibly pigmented and infused with a pretty grown-up sparkle. Smells a bit like cough syrup, but I kinda like it. Sheered out with a lipbalm or clear gloss, it can be worn everyday for a warm summery look, or when smeared on straight from the tube, makes a fabulous statement lip.


7. Ecotools by Alicia Silverstone slanted eyeshadow brush
Purchased in a LE set of 4 brushes + a beautiful natural brush case for $11, I've been reaching for this super soft brush every time I'm bothered enough to use an eyeshadow - and the rest of the set is pretty darn amazing too. Ecotools definitely have great quality reasonably priced brushes, their slanted eyebrow/eyeliner brush has long been a favorite of mine. All their brushes are vegan, sustainable and cruelty-free too, which is just another reason to get them. Like now.

To wrap this post up, I'm ending my Project Bathroom, the progress of which you could follow on your right hand side. I did pretty well I think, some of the products didn't get 100% used up, but I reckon I got a good 90% out of them. I'm still following the main principle though, I only get one of each kind of a product when it runs out, so I only have one shampoo, one hairspray, one bar of soap... Ok, it doesn't work out so well with soaps, I'm a hoarder. But you get the general idea.

Anyway, I'll be replacing my Project Bathroom progress bar with a list of upcoming posts, this way I can tease you ever so slightly and as for myself, try not to forget to actually write them. Hope you enjoyed my monthly favorites and a bit of a ramble and stay tuned for non-beauty related favorites tomorrow! xxx

My Top 5 Neutral Inglot Eyeshadows

What can I say, I've always loved Inglot eyeshadows, even way before they came up with the idea of selling customized palettes and separate eyeshadow pans and ventured out to foreign markets (meaning, outside of Poland). Most of their products are great for the price; however, when it comes to eyeshadows, I have to admit they're not just great; they're simply amazing. Buttery smooth, well pigmented, long lasting... and in every imaginable shade and finish. If you haven't already, I urge you to check them out!


Here are my 5 most reached for neutrals from my collection. How could I not love these beauties?


As you can see, my favorite finish from Inglot is definitely Pearl, which simply glides on the lids leaving lots of pigment behind; it's very comparable to MAC Veluxe Pearl finish. AMC Shine is a bit less pigmented, but more glittery - my pale gold shade is infused with some very pretty silver sparkles. As for Matte, it's, well... matte, a bit harder to blend, but still a pleasure to work with.


There's just one thing that annoys the crap out of me with these. How can you make such fantastic shadows and give them numbers instead of names?! I'm just going to pretend that never happened and christen them to my liking.


Brimstone Dust, né 111 AMC Shine
Tutu, né 397 Pearl
Myope, né 402 Pearl
Lilac Wine, né 420 Pearl
Fulleren, né 348 Matte

Have you tried Inglot eyeshadows? Which shade is your favorite? xxx

What Beauty is Made of: Hydrosols

Hydrosol, also known as floral, herbal or essential water or hydrolate or herbal distillate (phew!) is a water solution that remains after producing an essential oil in the process of distillation. Hydrosols contain water soluble plant compounds, water-loving acids and approximately .02% essential oil: high acidity (pH 3.6-6.1) means they're antiseptic and anti-inflammatory, while the tiny amount of essential oil imparts a beautiful aroma making it a safer and less irritating alternative to the essential oil itself. Hydrosols can't be obtained by mixing water and essential oil, and the best hydrosols aren't byproducts of essential oil distillation, but are distilled specifically for their therapeutic benefits.

Hydrosols' subtle aroma, astringency and anti-bacterial properties make them an ideal ingredient in facial toners, body and room sprays, bath products and creams. However, being water-based products, they're less stable than oils and usually require a preservative to prevent contamination.

People have been using hydrosols in food, religious ceremonies and healthcare for centuries: rose water or orange flower water are common ingredients in Arab, Mediterranean and French desserts, such as delicious madeleines, marzipan and marshmallows. Sweet treats aside, many natural and organic skincare companies have started using various hydrosols in their formulations for the benefit of our skin.

Let's take a look at some of the most common hydrosols:


Lavender (Lavendula Angustifolia) hydrosol - gentle, soothing and balancing, ideal as toner for all skin types, especially those which are damaged or sunburnt; also great as a compress to relieve stress or headache

Rose (Rosa damascena) hydrosol - again, fabulous toner for all skin types that smells exactly like a rose garden. It's both moisturizing & beneficial for dry or mature skin types, as well as balancing, as it controls sebum production in combination/oily skin types. It's gentle enough to use on troubled skin and works great in facial masks or combined with other hydrosols.

Rose Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) hydrosol - great for cellular regeneration, balancing for both dry and oily skin types, it's also useful for baths. When inhaled, it has a cooling and antidepressant effect and can be also taken internally to regain hormonal balance.

Neroli/ Orange Blossom (Citrus aurantium) hydrosol - smells good enough to drink, like sweet, freshly squeezed oranges :) Neroli hydrosol has uplifting, calming and refreshing properties and, being mildly astringent, is best suited for oily or acneic skin, but gentle enough to use on sensitive skin as well.

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) hydrosol - you guessed it, this hydrosol smells like freshly sliced cucumbers with a sweet, melonlike note. Cooling and anti-inflammatory, it's amazing for rashes and irritated skin, and used as an eye compress, relieves puffinnes and redness. As a toner, it firms the delicate facial skin and combats fine lines, and can also be used as a refreshing mist throughout the day to keep skin cool and matte.

Witch Hazel (Hammemelis virginiana) hydrosol - witch hazel distillate is the most common hydrosol and has been sold in the US for over 150 years. However, what is available commercially usually has alcohol added to it for preservation, so read the label carefully before buying (I've seen some witch hazel hydrosol-based toner without alcohol in my local Whole Foods, so you could try there). It has antifungal, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties and because it has little odor, is also readily used by men. It's wonderful for both teenage skin as well as mature skin since it's packed with antioxidants. Heals blistered or cracked skin, which makes it a wonderful treatment for soothing eczema and psoriasis.

I think my next choice of facial toner will definitely be a hydrosol, but I'm torn between witch hazel and rose... I guess I'll just get both and mix them; that's another fabulous thing about hydrosols, you can mix them together liberally to create your own blend tailored specifically to your skin's needs and taste. Have you ever tried hydrosols or hydrosol-based toners? xxx

Subtle Smokey FOTD

It's been a while since I last posted a Face of the Day, so here's the look I've rocked to an evening out with some friends and strawberry mojitos. I've also figured this way you'll be able to see the condition of my skin now after having used my Bioelements routine for over 2 weeks.

I didn't want to go overboard as it was a rather casual get together, so I opted for a subtle cool-toned smokey eye to go with blue patterns on my top. You know how I love my navy eyeliner!


The photos, as always, are a bit bleached out and somehow I seem to have a sunburnt, which, I assure you, is not the case.


I used some of my current favorite products as well - let me know if you'd like me to review any of the products listed below. I am also planning a post featuring my top Inglot eyeshadows with swatches, so look out for that!


Products used:
Face
100% Pure Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 with Fruit Pigments in Creme
Inglot green color corrector on blemishes
MAC Studio Finish concealer in NW20 under the eyes
CS mineral foundation in Light to set

Cheeks
Benefit Hoola bronzer
Benefit CORALista blusher

Eyes
Benefit F.Y.eye eyeshadow primer
Inglot taupy lilac pearl eyeshadow (similar to MAC Shale) all over the lid
MAC Satin Taupe eyeshadow in the crease
Inglot light pink pearl eyeshadow to highlight
L'Oreal HIP cream liner in Midnight Blue
Prestige Total Intensity eyeliner in Navy on the upper waterline
Covergirl Lash Blast Length mascara
Wet'n'Wild eyebrow pencil in Taupe

Lips
Maybelline Shine Seduction lipgloss in Pink Whisper

Hope you enjoyed this one and have a fabulous weekend! xxx

Bioelements skincare routine: Week 2

Just a quick heads up on the skincare front, as promised!


I am still thoroughly enjoying using my Bioelements skincare routine. I remember that in the not so distant past, following a strict regime had been a bit of a pain for me and I always had to force myself to go through the steps every morning and night; however, since I started using organic skincare, I actually can't wait to wash, tone and moisturize my face. I'm not sure what it is - the smell, the luxurious feeling, knowing that I'm doing something good for myself, my skin feeling fresh and soft to the touch; probably all of the above. I'm loving it!

It's not just placebo, ladies. I've noticed some improvement as well:
- my skin is well hydrated with no dry patches in sight
- the tone of my skin is more unified and healthy
- the number of breakouts has been significantly lower (and that's without using any products containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which were previously indispensable!)
- residual blemishes and scars have been healing much faster
- overall skin comfort has noticeably increased

I've introduced some changes to the routine I followed during the first week: currently, I'm using the All Things Pure moisturizer only at night as I find it a bit too heavy for daytime use; I apply a tinted moisturizer with SPF in the morning instead. I use the scrub once a week and supplement with Angel Face Botanicals Facial Cleansing Grains as needed (once or twice a week). Sometimes I also switch the Bioelements Calmitude toner for Angel Face Botanicals Clary Blossom toner, because I feel the latter is more effective in getting rid of the last traces of oil and dirt. I've also started to enjoy using the Bioelements Restorative Clay mask more and more; it no longer irritates my skin, just feels a bit tingly upon application, and leaves my face feeling clean, soft and smoother in texture.

All in all, two thumbs up for the new routine! I still have issues with oiliness, large and clogged pores, blackheads and redness, but knowing how awfully inflamed and congested my skin can be, I'm a happy camper. I can't wait to see further changes to my skin in the following weeks. Stay tuned for an update in another 2 weeks time! xxx

Review: Covergirl Lash Blast Length Mascara

From the moment I heard about its release, I knew I had to try Lash Blast Length. I absolutely loved the regular Lash Blast, which is now christened Volume, and have always liked lengthening mascaras. I even imagined we could be dealing with Holy Grail material here, so I rushed to the drugstore as soon as I could to check it out.


Pros:
- fun, bright packaging: the yellow telescope-shaped tube is so easy to spot when getting ready in a rush
- a black black without any ashiness or grey lurking underneath
- clump-free formula, not too thick, not too runny
- fast to apply if you're going for natural, feathery looking lashes
- no fading or flaking throughout the day
- no smudging or transfer, even on my oily lids
- extremely separating & defining brush
- easy to remove with an oil-based cleanser


Cons:
- a very subtle lengthening effect: no fireworks here
- absolutely no volumizing action
- doesn't seem to hold the curl too well
- a bit stiff & scratchy brush
- very difficult to layer (in the photos, I'm wearing 2 generous layers)

Would I repurchase? I'm sure a year or two ago I'd have been completely thrilled to discover this mascara since I was all about natural, defined eyes then and I cringed at the sight of the smallest clump in my lashes. But recently, I've grown to enjoy thicker, fuller, more dramatic but still well separated lashes, and for this purpose Lash Blast Length looks a bit... too natural. Almost like it's not even there. Why should I bother with an invisible mascara? Overall, it's a very good product, however I do prefer their Volume version, and as for lengthening mascaras, I enjoyed L'Oreal Telescopic more for its layering potential. So, I don't think I'll repurchase this one any time soon - the quest for HG mascara is still open.

Angel Face Botanicals Skincare Haul

I've been obsessed with organic skincare lately and while browsing on Etsy one evening, I found this little gem of a shop: Angel Face Botanicals run by Jessica, also known as Spa Goddess. Angel Face Botanicals offers organic facial care, perfumes and potions as well as natural bath and body care, created on the basis of aromatherapy principles, careful research and Jessica's own experiences. The whole range is organic, vegan, cruelty- and sulphate-free, naturally colored and scented. From the moment I started reading about her products, I wanted everything in the store; I must admit that all her line with its beautiful, simple design really appealed to me! But, with funds somehow restricted, I just got myself a "couple" of things:


(left to right):
Clary Blossom Blissful Organic Facial Mist: 94% organic and paraben-free, with chamomile, rose geranium, clary sage and neroli essential oils; for all skin types, helps reduce the appearance of broken capillaries.
Ambrosia Facial Cleansing Grains: 91% organic and preservative-free facial cleanser formulated with strawberry, apple and chamomile for their soothing properties and guava, papaya and banana for skin repairing properties. Rich in vitamins A & C, can also be used as a mask when mixed with a bit of toner/honey/yogurt or just water.
Angel's Balm Skin-Softening Botanical Body Butter: 98% organic and preservative-free body moisturizer with coconut oil and shea butter, scented with sweet orange, lavender, rose and chamomile essential oils. Initially formulated to aid the repair of stretch marks on Mummy's growing hips, breasts and belly.


(clockwise:)
Oil-Free Lavender Hydrating Serum sample: 96% organic and paraben-free (with a safe preservative complex), with lavender and aloe to help clear complexion, heal and prevent blemishes and soothe the skin; can be used alone or under a moisturizer.
Warmth Oatmeal Spice Soap petite bar: 85% organic soap with moisturizing, exfoliating and uplifting properties, formulated with cloves, cinnamon as well as safflower, sunflower and coconut oil.
Royal Jasmine Exquisite Moisture Creme travel size: rich facial cream scented with jasmine, neroli, rose and sandalwood to help regulate oil production, increase circulation, stimulate new cell growth & heal scar tissue.
Blemish Soother Spot Treatment: 75% organic serum formulated with jojoba oil and tea tree, lavender, sage and bergamot essential oils to speed healing, control oil production and prevent future breakouts.
Sweet Dreams Magical Aromatherapy Potion sample: calming blend of chamomile, lavender and neroli essential oils to promote peaceful and restful sleep.


Luxury Organic Sample Soap Set, including my choice of following soap samples (left to right):
Radiance Blood Orange and Bergamot soap
Detox Exfoliating Soap with Juniper Berries
Sunshine Citrus and Lavender soap
Refresh Peppermint soap
and Detox soap again :)

I actually got two samples of Detox soap by mistake instead of one Detox and one Warmth, so in my next order, Jessica included not just the missing soap sample, in fact she sent me the petite size soap, which was really nice of her! I loved chatting with her about the products and I have to say the customer service was just excellent, the shipping was fast and everything came nicely packaged together with some generous samples.

Anyway, would you ladies be interested in reading reviews of some of these products? Let me know in the comments and the products which get most votes will be reviewed first; I have my favorites but I'd like to know which items you find most interesting. Stay cool in this crazy hot weather, dear readers!

*Disclaimer* All of the products mentioned I purchased myself with my own money and obviously, I am not compensated in any way for featuring them on my blog. I just wanted to let you guys know about this fabulous company since I haven't seen it on any blogs! I hope you'll find it helpful.

Project Bedroom

If you've been wondering what I've been up to for the past couple of days apart from settling in, here goes: I've been busy decorating our bedroom. My husband moved in to this apartment back in March, but since we'd lived in a studio before and didn't have the furniture, he left the bedroom bare, or rather used it as his storage room, bike, sports gear and heaps of cables included. So, as soon as I beat the jet lag, I've started turning it into a comfortable, peaceful room for us both to sleep in and dress, and for me, to play with my make-up :)


It's the first bedroom we've ever had, so we're quite excited about it! It's still work in progress, but here you have a couple of shots from different angles. You can also see my vanity there in the corner, but I'll devote a separate post to it once I'm done organizing.


It feels quite bare now and needs some finishing touches. What would you girls suggest I should do to make it feel more cozy and lived-in but still airy and simple? All your ideas will be much appreciated! xxx

Bioelements skincare routine: Week 1

How are you, lovelies? I hope the weather where you are is at least a bit sunny, unlike here - but we're keeping our fingers crossed for some sunshine for the 4th of July weekend! Oh, and Happy Canada Day, fellow Canucks!

Thanks for all your sweet messages and good wishes, I'm sure they've helped a lot since the trip went very smoothly and quite comfortably, well, as comfortably as you can get on a 10-hour transatlantic flight. Of course, I needn't have worried, my luggage actually turned out to be much lighter than the allowed weight - I'm kicking myself now for leaving some make-up and clothes behind. C'est la vie...!

Of course, the moment I stepped into our apartment I had to rip open the package from Bioelements with a new skincare routine I won in their Skincare Wardrobe Giveaway over at the Brilliant Farmgirl's Beauty Secrets blog last month. I couldn't wait to try all the products out, so I ditched all of my previous skincare and started using Bioelements routine right away. I've been using these products for a couple of days now and decided to share my first impressions with you. Since all skincare products need time to work with your skin, I'll be also reporting back in 2 weeks time, in 1 month and then lastly in 2 months time to give you a thorough image of how these products affected my skin.

Ok, enough chit-chat, let's get right to it! All of the goodies were carefully selected for me by Teresa, who's a Bioelements esthetician and an amazingly helpful lady! She's made sure to address all of my skin concerns (sensitive, oily, acne-prone) and also, on my request, agreed to go as organic as possible. So here's what I received:


I got the whole All Things Pure range, which is a National Products Association Certified Organic line of products, plus a toner from their sensitive range as well as a clay mask for combination/oily skin. All of the products mentioned below come in glass packaging for maximum freshness and recyclability - not very travel-friendly though, but you can always scoop some out to travel-sized jars.

1. All Things Pure Clay-Based Deep Pore Face Wash
This all natural, non-foaming, creamy cleanser is surprisingly gentle yet effective in washing off all the grime and make-up that accumulates on your face during the day. I use it twice a day in the morning and at night, and sometimes I wash it off using a muslin cloth for extra exfoliation. It has a very smooth texture and an earthy, kind of nutty scent; it takes some time to get used to, but definitely not unpleasant. It leaves my skin clean without stripping the moisture; my face feels refreshed but soft and comfortable. The cleanser contains, among others, bentonite clay, aloe vera, jojoba oil as well as chamomile and pomegranate extracts. The cool thing about the All Things Pure range is that the ingredients list is so short and clear; each ingredient comes with a description of its role in the product, which I love. The range is also suitable for all skin types, including dry, sensitive and acneic skin.

2. Calmitude Hydrating Solution Sensitive Skin Facial Mist
I spray this delicate toner on my face after cleansing and wipe the excess with a cotton pad. It helps to get rid of the last traces of dirt, refreshes and hydrates, tightens the pores and prepares the skin for the moisturizer. It has a difficult to describe, natural scent and is infused with licorice root and white tea extract to help reduce redness.


3. All Things Pure Hydrating Creme with Emollient Shea Butter
Again, I use this moisturizer morning and night. It's quite a thick cream so you only need a tiny amount and it takes some massaging in for it to absorb. It isn't greasy, but it's not invisible on the skin either; it leaves a thin layer of moisture which actually helps my mineral foundation to blend into the skin more naturally. It has a bit citrusy, fresh smell and most importantly, so far it hasn't broken me out, which was my biggest fear. In fact, I had some irritation/break-outs on my face after the flight, I applied this moisturizer before bed and in the morning, they were gone! Very impressive. It contains sunflower oil, shea butter, olive glycerides, lavender oil and chamomile extract.


4. All Things Pure Nourishing Plant Oil Blend for Face and Eyes
I only apply this eye oil at night time because, well, it's an oil. My eyelids are already quite oily, so I imagine any eye make-up I put on top would just slide off. I have yet to use it as a face serum, but I enjoy using it on my eyes a lot. It has a very citrusy smell (it contains grapefruit, elemi, orange and lavendin essential oils) and you only need a tiny drop for both eyes. It hasn't irritated the skin under my eyes like most eye creams have in the past, and my skin feels soft and hydrated. It contains base oils such as jojoba oil, sunflower oil, evening primrose oil and sesame oil.

5. All Things Pure Facial Exfoliator with Melting Herbal Grains
This gentle scrub is probably one of the best exfoliators I've tried so far. The scrubbing action is very delicate, nothing like St. Ives Apricot scrub, and I love how easy this is to wash off due to those magical melting grains. After a minute or two of massaging it into my skin, the grains simply dissolve and there are no harsh bits clinging to your skin which are impossible to remove. It has a very nutty, almost foodsy smell that I've grown quite fond of and a very thick, almost glue-like consistency. It leaves my skin feeling softer and smoother but not brick red and inflamed. It contains sunflower, jojoba and evening primrose oils as well as 'Bioelements Chinese Herbology Blend' (that'd be your scrublets, I reckon).


6. Restorative Clay Pore Refining Treatment Mask
I'll be using this twice a week on the days when I'm not exfoliating. I have to say, this is my least favorite of all the products I received. It's a thick, light grey cream with quite a strong, almost chemical scent. I've only used it once so far and unfortunately it irritated my skin. When I washed it off, I had some red patches here and there which felt hot and stingy. The irritation was gone by the morning and I'm thinking maybe my skin needs some time to get used to it, so I'll give it another go. I haven't noticed any pore refining action yet, but I've only used it once so far.

All in all, at the initial inspection my new Bioelements skincare routine gets a thumbs up from me. I enjoy using the products and I'm actually quite surprised how easy the transition from normal to organic skincare proved to be - I was expecting the products to be far more difficult to use and I was worried that my skin might freak out. None of that turned out to be true and I'm glad I took this step. I only wish the organic line also included a toner, mask and sunscreen so that I wouldn't need to supplement with other, non-organic products. Anyhow, thanks to Bioelements for making this change possible!

Have you thought about going organic with your skincare?

*Disclaimer* I received the above mentioned Bioelements products for free as a prize in a giveaway hosted by Brilliant Farmgirl. I do not receive any compensation for posting this review nor was I requested to write one by any party involved. Posting the review was my own initiative and all the opinions expressed are honest.