Home Product Reviews

Product Reviews

Revolution Organics Freedom Glow Beauty Balm: You Make Me Blush

The Freedom Glow Beauty Balm (in Sunkissed) was my introduction to Revolution Organics, a very impressive product.  This versatile balm can be used on lips, eyes, and cheeks; all in a one convenient stick.

Great for medium skin tones, Sunkissed is the perfect shade for me!  It’s peachy-pink with a light shimmer, that lets you build color to adjust to your desired shade.  For cheeks (my primary use for the balm), I apply a small amount during the day along my cheekbone for a nice, sun-kissed natural glow.  For more of a classic blush look, I apply a stronger stroke, which brings out more of the pink tones to the peach.  Plus it’s easy blend formula makes it effortless to keep cheeks even (and wipe off any excess if you apply too much).  For eyes, I like to use a single stroke under my eyebrows for a nice highlighting shimmer effect, which not only brings out my eyes, but

― READ ON →

Whish it Away

What do the heroines of the hit series “24” and I have in common?  When it comes to shaving products, Whish products are at the top of our list.  In a recent letter to Whish, the ladies from the cast wrote, “We love the fact that Whish has taken extra special measures to develop these heavenly scented paraben-free, sulfate-free, and petrochemical-free, all-natural and organic-based shave creams that leave our legs feeling so soft and silky.”

My latest Whish obsession is their Flawless Ingrown Hair Serum (although I think it needs a new name since it’s so much more then just an ‘ingrown hair serum’).  It helps calm inflammation from areas prone to bumps and irritation thanks to it’s key ingredients, wheat germ (to restore and soothe skin), yeast extract (for it’s regenerative properties), and willow bark extract (which fights against inflammation).

Use after shaving, waxing, or laser, Whish Flawless is a clear serum with a smooth application, and absorbs right into the skin, leaving no residue or marks on clothing.

I first used a sample of this product while traveling to the Dominican Republic last year.  I fell victim to a cheap disposable razor and then jumped into the ocean—Oh the burn!  Whish Flawless Serum instantly soothed my skin and

― READ ON →

The New Ladi in My Life: Ladi Avokanto Review

I should start by saying that I’m on an oil kick, and my latest find is SPONGE’s Ladi Avokanto (Avocado Oil).  I know many of you are afraid of oils and are concerned it will you clog pores or cause you to break out.  I get it, I’ve been there, but that’s simply not the case.  It’s true, not all oils are created equally.  There are a lot of different oils out on the market; each with different consistencies and some are better then others.  But at the end of the day there’s a reason why people with oily skin tend to get less wrinkles then those with dryer skin.  And that’s where Ladi Avokanto comes in.

Rich in olive oil, avocados, vitamin E and vitamin D, Ladi Avokanto is an

― READ ON →

STIRUPPZ Keeping it All in Place

If you have trouble creating that perfect jeans-tucked-into-pants-without-any-wrinkles-or-knee-bunching look, then you need Stiruppz. Stiruppz are designed to keep your jeans in place comfortably, without damaging your clothes. They remind me of those mitten clips I used to wear as a kid, but Stiruppz are a lot chicer, and have an equestrian vibe.

How it works: Just fold your jeans up, strap the elastic around your socks, and clip the edges to your cuff. Create enough tension with the elastic so that your pants won’t budge and you’re good to go.

One size fits all. $25.

For more information visit stiruppz.com

Affiliation: This product was given to me by a company representative. I was under no obligation to write this review.

I’m Nuts About Macadamia Natural Oil™

Almost two months ago, I had the pleasure of getting an advanced introduction to the new, very affordable, amazing hair line Macadamia Natural Oil™, and I haven’t stopped using it since. Now available, the brand launched with a five-piece collection including Macadamia Healing Oil Treatment, Macadamia Oil Infused Comb, Macadamia Rejuvenating Shampoo, Macadamia Nourishing Leave-In Cream, and Macadamia Deep Repair Masque.  I’m obsessed with it all!

Face and hair oils have really made their way into the spotlight over the past few years and where many we’re once apprehensive to apply it to the face and scalp, it’s now readily accepted with proven benefits.  We started with Olive Oil, then Coconut Oil, then the last years major buzz word, the beloved argen seed oil, and now our attention is going to the macadamia nut oil.

Why Macadamia Nut Oil?

Macadamia nut oil works on all hair types to promote a healthy scalp and hair growth.  This lightweight, non-greasy oil absorbs quickly and effortlessly into the hair shaft and skin.  Rich in

― READ ON →

Last Call for Mrs. Meyer’s Iowa Pine Holiday Line

Mrs. Meyer’s, the Earth-friendly, cruelty free brand specializing in household products, is one of my favorites.  If you love the smell of pine trees, then get the Iowa Pine line while you can (and it’s on sale)! Now’s about the time when all the Christmas tree’s make their way to the curb and many of us have to wait until next year to smell that freshly cut tree aroma.  So I’m stocking up on the Holiday Hand Care Set so I can have the fresh scent of pine (mixed with a touch of cedar and clove) for months to come.

The Iowa Pine Holiday Hand Care Set includes the Hand Soap Liquid, 8oz, & Hand Lotion, 8oz.  Was $9.99, now $5.99! [Revision: as of 1/16 this set is now $3.99! But they have sold out of the Clean-Up Kit]

For more information on the Iowa Pine collection visit mrs.meyers.com

Over the holiday musk? May I suggest the lavender? That’s my favorite Mrs. Meyer’s line!

My Packing List for Hawaii

Part of my New Years resolutions is to be more adventurous, so on Christmas day I booked a trip to Hawaii for New Years.  I traded in NYC snow for Kona (and eventually Maui) sunshine!

My trips two weeks, so I packed the essentials for my paradise vacation:

More in depth review to come, but for now I need to catch a flight!

Affiliation: Sponge, Whish, Macadamia Natural Oil, Hard Candy, Ken Paves, and Upper Canada products we’re sent to me by a company representative for the purpose of this blog.  Estee Lauder was given to me by a company rep. for a previous blog I wrote for; Shiseido I received in a gift bag. I was under no obligation to write this review for any of these brands.

Perfect Last Minute Gifts

If you’re like me, then right about now you’ve finished most of your shopping and just trying to resolve a few loose ends.

So here it is — a list of great gift sets to have on hand that you can give as is or break them apart (they makes great little stocking stuffers).  And if all else fails, keep them for yourself, everyone wins!

1. Korres – Never Too Much of a Good Thing

The possibilities are endless with this unisex set of 12 body products (six showergels, six body butters).  Match them by scent and give them to your favorite coworkers (just get fancy on the wrapping).  Or you can give the entire set to that person in your life who’s fortunate enough to have a guest bathroom and enjoys putting toiletries out for their guests. Also a perfect gift for hosts/hotesesses, secret santa, travelers, siblings, maybe even the mailman? … like I said, endless possibilities.

The set contains:

  • 6 Showergels in Basil Lemon, Jasmine, Guava, Clementine, Melon, and Mint
  • 6 Body Butters in Basil Lemon, Jasmine, Guava, Clementine, Melon, and Mint

Price: $39.50 (value $99).  Exclusive to Sephora, visit Sephora.com for more information.

2. Tarte – Crown Jewels Lipgloss Multi-Gift Set

This limited edition set already does the work for you! This gift is nicely packaged on its own or inside there are 3 sets of perfectly packed sets of 5 mini lip glosses ready to be given out by

― READ ON →

Holiday Treats!

Looking for a yummy treat without all the calories? Here are some of my favorites.

yummy story

1. Soft & Dreamy Drenched in Pink Super Soft Body Lotion by Victoria’s Secret

This light weight, limited edition lotion absorbed effortlessly into my skin with the delicious smell of meringue and vanilla whipped cream. The Pink line is my general go-to for the teenagers in my life, and it hasn’t let me down yet.

$12/ 500mL/16.9 FL OZ.
For more information visit victoriassecret.com

2. Almond Cookie Candle by Carol’s Daughter
Get into the spirit with the soft aromatic blend of almonds and marzipan. Hours after I blew out this soy candle, the scent lingered in my room, and the wax stayed soft enough to use a little on my dry patches and cuticles (like a salve to add moisture).

Burns for approximately 50 hours. $29/7.2 oz.
For more information visit carolsdaughter.com

3. Cherry Blossom Hugs & Kisses by L’Occitane
I love this little duo set — Ultra hydrating, sweet smelling cherry hand cream that’s not overpowering with a lightly pigmented red cherry lip gloss that’s not too sticky; all boxed up in a cute package.

$18/ Hand Cream 1 oz, Lip Gloss 0.5 oz.
For more information visit loccitane.com

4. Holiday Treats Mini Juice Gems Squeeze on Lip Gloss by Mark.
Four limited edition glosses in fun, high pigmented, thick gloss flavors including

― READ ON →

Some Jolly with a Little Folly for the Holiday

fun kits jepg

With the holidays around the corner, here are 3 of my favorite fun, but practical gag gifts that work for almost every girl, plus they come with a good laugh.


1. Miss Oops! Holiday Survival Kit

Miss Oops is a super fun brand with a wide array of cheeky but practical beauty and fashion saving, problem-solving products for all of those ‘oopsie!’ moments in your life.


The Holiday Survival Kit from Miss Oops is a fabulous set of must haves including:

  • Rescue Sponge – perfect for getting out pesky stains including deodorant marks or fresh make-up powder off your clothes. No water needed.
  • Travel size lint roller – you never know whose cat you’ll meet at that holiday party, and now you don’t have to worry about it (unless you’re allergic).
  • Mishap Tape – a set of 36 strips in two widths, this fabric friendly, hypoallergenic tape repairs hanging hems, gaping blouses, and keeps bra straps in place. So don’t worry about a wardrobe malfunction (I’m looking at you Janet Jackson).

Packaged in a fun to go box, this gift is great for any girl on the go. Plus each product is nice and compact so they fit easily in your purse.


Suggested Retail Price: $18

For more information visit missoops.com

2. On the Cuff

I got On the Cuff in a gift bag and had no idea what it was. They look like little floats made of sponges! So after conducting a quick online investigation, it became clear that they are basically sponge bracelets (ahem, their terminology is ‘cuff made of a unique stretch material’) you wear, while rinsing your face, doing the dishes, or washing your car to prevent water from running down your arms.


While it seems like a completely hilarious invention, it’s also genius and practical. I’m a major victim of water dripping down my sleeves so this made my day.


Price of 1 pair: $7.99

For more information visit onthecuff.net

3. Foot Petals Luxury Kit

This gift by Foot Petals is perfect for the shoe maven in your life; packed with an assortment of foot cushions and freshness spray, this set will help keep the comfort in and the blisters at bay so you can dance the night away this season.


The Luxury Kit includes (products also sold separately):

  • Heavenly Heelz – A multi-functional foot cushion that can be used to prevent your heels from slipping out of your shoes
  • Strappy Stripes – No more sling back straps digging into the backs of your ankles! Help is here with this preventative adhesive cushion.
  • Tip Toe – the cushion that helps prevents your foot from sliding forward. This is especially perfect for those high-heeled shoes, since it’s never particularly attractive (or comfortable) to have your foot scrunched in the front with visible room in the back of your shoe.
  • Sweaty Pedi – A perfect spray to keep your feet dry and fresh. The name may not be so attractive, and the vanilla smell is a little overwhelming (although it does fade shortly after contact), I’m willing to overlook these shortcomings, considering this product delivers. I’ve sprayed it on my feet before going to the gym and before going out for the evening, and hours later, my feet stayed dry and in fact, were rather soft.

Suggested Retail Price: $39.95


For more information (and a variety of alternate great holiday foot sets and products), visit footpetals.com

Load more
© 2017 Pretty Connected. Powered By LIVING PROOF CREATIVE