Beauty Product Reviews

Shine and moisture make this lip balm one of the best.

Mango + Cranberry Kiehl's lip balm are two of my go-to favs. I love that they provide SPF protection, moisturize and add high gloss on days when I want an au natural, dewy look. The fresh fragrances are a major bonus too. The original #1 is available unscented. For the sake of the price (around 7 bucks), it's best to keep close tabs on these tubes.

What the Dr. Ordered?

There are really only two Dr. Bronner's liquid soaps that I prefer, the Hemp Rose and Hemp Almond. Both of these smell very pleasant, plus lather, cleanse and moisturize the body quite well. The product line is supposed to be 100% vegan, which I appreciate--however, a Ph balance strip test revealed that the alkaline content is extraordinarily high (for folks who care about that sort of thing). I am uncertain whether this is common in most soaps, however, since then I have switched to an alternate natural bar soap.

Soaps-- regular or vegetarian-- were never irritants in my case, as I have pretty normal skin. However, with Dr. Bronners, when used in certain areas I did experience some temporary, mild irritation. After speaking to other naturals about their experiences with various soaps-- Dr. Bronner's included, I understand that sometimes if one tries to go back to using regular products it is possible that one may experience some irritation.

Nevertheless, I used to use this product to wash my hair until I figured out that it was stripping it dry (probably because of the high alkaline).

Despite these challenges, I do find that this product is excellent for removing deodorant, therefore it will remain in my shower specifically for that purpose.

Get back to the basics with Minimalistic

Minimalistic is by far my favorite go to neutral/opaque color. I loved it from the first application. I have gotten much more adventurous when it comes to color and design, but whenever I want to get back to basics Minimalistic is the color that I will reach for first. The problem I have had with other neutral opaques in the past is that I'd often have to apply multiple coats before seeing the polish's true color. With Minimalistic, I only need two coats and I am good to go. My only criticism is that I often have a difficult time locating this color in stores and usually end up ordering it online. Aside from that, if you are looking for a great neutral with superb opacity, then Minimalistic is an excellent choice.

All Hail Maybelline's Great Lash Mascara

Maybelline's Great Lash is an excellent alternative to my former fav., Bourjois' Coup de Theater 2-in-1 mascara. At an average price of $4.99 (that's roughly a quarter of the cost the alternative), Great Lash does double duty by saving me money and at the same time maximizes my lash length in one application compared to Bourjois' 2-step process. Maybelline gives me diva-like lashes and comes in all the best colors from blue, to brownish-black, to clear, and my favorite, blackest black. All hail Maybelline's Great Lash, my go to mascara for everyday and going out wear, now and forever.