March Ipsy Glam Bag Review

Posted on March 19, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Its March Ipsy Glam Bag time! I am glad to say they are continuously getting better with the products and I am happy that every month I get to indulge in some new products I may not have tried before. If you are not familiar with Ipsy and their monthly subscription program check out my previous post and initial review on my very first bag. This month features a special makeup bag with a funky print from Klari Reis.

This cute trio palette from Nyx is called “Love in Rio” and features the perfect combination for a dark night-time smokey eye. They are all shimmery and feature a base medium color, highlight and black for depth.

This bare minerals lipstick could not be any cuter! Its mini size makes it perfect to throw in any bag but yet features enough of the product to get its worth. Featured in “Get Ready” this color is perfect for everyday use and its creamy texture feels great and moisturizing on the lips.

This pixi “flawless beauty primer” is supposed to even your skin tone and add a youthful glow. I tried it on my face and I didn’t see much difference except the shimmer. It didn’t work well with my skin tone but might look better on someone with fair skin or used sparingly for a touch of highlight.

Lastly this liner was an unexpected little surprise. From the brand Chella this eyeliner pen is in “Indigo Blue” and features a stiff felt tip. The end is perfect for precise lines, and the dark blue is a nice break from the usual black. It is long-lasting and doesnt drag or fade.

Klari Reis Print Makeup Bag, check out more on Klariart.com

Love

Ari

February Ipsy Glam Bag Review

Posted on February 21, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

The time has come again for my monthly Ipsy Glam Bag, this is my second one ever and I must say I am much more pleased with this one than my January edition. This time around it included more full sized items and actual products that I love and will use often. First things first is the constant incorporation of a new makeup bag, plain pink with white trim and I love it! This one will probably be re-gifted as well or used for traveling purposes. I received lashes from jcatbeauty, a body butter from pacifica, zoya nail polish, pop beauty lip gloss and a shadow tint from ‘tini beauty. Check out my pics and reviews below and also the Links at the bottom for products. Enjoy!

J.Cat Beauty “EL 20”
Lashes + Glue
These are very thick but still very soft to the touch, I may cut them in half to use as accent lashes instead of a full glam look. I usually prefer a slimmer band but nonetheless these are still great lashes.

Pop Beauty -“Fuchsia Freesia”
This mini gloss is perfect to throw in your bag and your’e out the door! The sheer tint is great over another color to mix or alone by itself for a natural flushed pink pout. Although I did not see the advertised “plumping” effects I did feel the moisture from the avocado and jojoba oils used in said product. I love it!

Pacifica Body Butter- “Hawaiian Ruby Guava”
This body butter is super moisturizing and smells like heaven on earth! Like all pacifica products it is 100% vegan and cruelty free. This isn’t for someone afraid of a strong scent you will be smelling like a tropical dream for the entire day!

‘Tini Beauty-Eyeshadow Tint “Spiced Rum”
I have never heard of this line until now and they offer an array of nail products, eyes and lips as well. This eyeshadow tint is creamy, blends well and can be used as a base or by itself for a subtle look (on my skin tone). The packaging on the site is very cute with all of the products sporting an alcohol related theme i.e., “dry gin top coat”. Very cool concept!

Zoya- “Odette”
This pretty purple is perfect for an everyday mani. It was a nice consistency and one coat is good enough for a nice finish. Ive always liked Zoya polishes and Im glad to add this to my collection!

-Love,
Ari

Pacifica “Hawaiian Ruby Guava” Body Butter
Zoya “Odette” Nail Polish
‘Tiny Beauty “Spiced Rum” Eyeshadow Tint
J. Cat Beauy Eyelashes
Pop Beauty “Fuchsia Freesia” Lip Gloss

Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm

Posted on January 30, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

I was so excited when I saw Revlon’s new matte balm line! ( I mean what new lip product doesn’t make me super excited?) The original colorburst’s were my absolute favorite when they were first launched, I love the simple twist up tube because lets face it not many people have a sharpener on hand.

There are many matte lipsticks & balms that are a bit too drying for me, causing lots of cracking which I HATE! These bad boys are velvety smooth! They are made with shea, coconut and mango butters, so yes you guessed it not only do they glide on your lips smoothly (with intense color payoff might I add) they are also very nourishing. Shameless (#215) and Unapologetic (#210) were the two colors I chose and I couldn’t be happier. Check out some swatches below…

Hope these swatches were helpful to you all

Hasta Luego,

-Gwen

January Ipsy Glam Bag Review

Posted on January 29, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

I just received my first Ipsy Glam bag ever and I have to say I have very mixed reviews of the items and products that were included. For those who don’t know, Ipsy is just one of the ever popular monthly subscription bags out there meant to save makeup/beauty collectors money and allow you the customer to try products out before committing and buying them fully. Every month you get a selection of items based on a questionnaire that you fill out in the beginning, it does initially put you on a waiting list for a bag but my personal wait was not long at all. For $10 a month you can then read reviews and watch tutorials on the ipsy online community from other makeup lovers and learn and share tips and tricks based on that months bag.

First Impression-Love the fact that it comes in an extremely cute makeup case! I have so many of these but they get dirty often and sometimes even need replacing. These can make great items to re-gift later on and fill them with your own personalized items for friends and family. I love this first blue bag featuring a print of different cosmetic products and bottles.

Cons- The items I received were not full-sized except the tinted lip balm (pictured below)

Pros-
-It featured new products that I had never tried before and some that I had heard of already (proactiv and Mica).
-Good mixture of “high and low” products

Ipsy January Glam Bag

Proactiv + Mark Fading Pads

Mica Beauty Cosmetics- Tinted Lip Balm # 6 Fiesta
The color pay off of this product is great and shows up on my darker lips perfectly. The only con I could say is that it could be a little more moisturizing for being a “balm”. It feels more like a soft stain versus an actual regular lip balm.

Swatch of #6 Fiesta

Nourish Organic Lightweight Moisturizing Face Lotion-Argan +Rosewater
This feels super lightweight and has an amazing refreshing scent. The only con I would say is that my skin absorbs it super quick and I still feel a little dry. This is best for those with less dry skin (perhaps oily or combination) and also for areas with high heat as it is super light and refreshing on the face.

Elizabeth Mott- Smooth Shadow Creamy Eye Pencil
This pencil had a great consistency and cute little travel packaging, the only downside was that it was too light for either me or my sister’s skin tone. This was included in our giveaway a week ago.

Dont Despair, Repair! Deep conditioning mask This hair mask has an amazing scent and is meant for those with dry, damaged or chemically treated hair.

Briogeo-Dont Despair, Repair! Deep conditioning mask
This hair mask has an amazing scent and is meant for those with dry, damaged or chemically treated hair.

I will most likely continue and see what else Ipsy has to offer for the next couple of months and will be coming out with further reviews if I receive any items that I am in love with.

Until then….Enjoy!

-Ari

Winter Moisture

Posted on January 24, 2014 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Hey Everyone! How are you all holding up in these freezing temperatures? I feel like this has been one of the coldest winters we New Yorkers have had in a very long time. I need some sun in my life!
Due to all of the frigid winds I have had to change up my skincare routine a bit by adding a moisturizer that will keep my face hydrated all day long. Here are my current top two picks.

Alba Botanica Natural Hawaiian Moisture Cream (Smoothing Jasmine & Vitamin E)
This moisturizer has a very creamy consistency providing hydration and nourishment to your skin without being too heavy. It settles into the skin without leaving a sticky feeling. I also love the smell, super clean!

Alba Botanica Hawaiian Moisture with Jasmine and Vitamin E

L’Oreal Youth Code Dark Spot SPF 30 Day Cream
This moisturizer’s main task is to fade old dark spots as well as prevent new ones from reappearing.( I have a few of these from picking at my pimples) The formula is very thick and rich, perfect for cold days. This product also provides a luminous glow, evening out your overall skin tone.
*Now I cannot say that I have seen a difference on the spots but I do like the coverage and radiancy it gives me.

L’Oreal Youth Code Dark Spot SPF 30 Day Cream

Before I apply my moisturizer I also prep my skin with either an oil or a serum. My two favorites are…

Josie Maran 100 % Organic Argan oil has received wonderful reviews and I too can say that it leaves my skin feeling amazing! It also has vitamin E and essential fatty acids. (I recently learned that oils should be “dabbed” onto the skin not rubbed).

*Also Pictured is the Argan oil with Radiance that my sister bought for me. It leaves my skin super luminous, (I sometimes use it as a highlight above my cheek bones)

L’Oreal Youth Code texture perfector serum fills in pores and fine lines. It really leaves my skin feeling velvety smooth. I am also obsessed with the scent!

Day and Night Regimen

Night Routine: (after cleansing) apply Josie Maran Argan oil, wait a few minutes until it settles into my skin and then add the Alba Botanica cream. I sometimes skip the cream step or I just add a few drops of the oil to the Alba Botanica moisturizer and dab away!

Day Routine: (after cleansing) I apply the L’Oréal serum and again wait a few minutes until it settles into my skin. Then I proceed to rub some L’Oreal youth code dark spot SPF 30 cream and I am out the door!

There you have it my friends! Don’t forget just because it is winter time doesn’t mean you can skip your SPF (the sun’s rays are still powerful) if you don’t have time to apply yet another product to your face opt for one with SPF already built in!

You can check out more of a detailed description and or purchase any of of these items below. Your local drugstore should carry all of these products (except for the Argan oil, you can find it at Sephora)

Alba Botanica Cream
L’Oréal Youth Code
Argan Oil
Serum

Stay Warm & Hydrated!
-Gwen

Real Techniques “Sam’s Picks” Review

Posted on December 22, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Real Technique brushes are designed by youtube sensation and makeup artist Samantha Chapman. These affordable brushes are top of the line! The quality is impeccable and you get so much bang for your buck. I was introduced to them by my sister (and co blogger) and I am in love. I chose to go with “Sam’s Picks” because the brushes suited my needs and also served as a basic starting point (although they do have other “starter kits”. For me personally this one was the best.

Priced at $30.00 these are essential to any makeup lovers collection. The bristles are super soft but don’t shed and the aluminum self standing handle make it easier to grip and hold. I have no cons for these thus far! Links Below.

Multi Task Brush- Perfect for Powders (blush, bronzers etc)

Setting Brush-Dusting of Powder or Highlighter (I use mine to set my concealer under my eyes amongst other things)

Buffing Brush- Perfect for application of foundations both powder and mineral

Pointed Foundation Brush- Perfect for liquid foundation

Essential Crease Brush- These tapered bristles are perfect for contouring the face or blending on the eyes.

Fine Liner Brush- Great for any gel liner.

Sam’s Picks Brushes

Real Techniques at Ulta

Love Ari

Nip + Fab Cellulite Fix Review

Posted on November 22, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

As mentioned in my previous post Nivea Serum Review my new-found 24-year-old body has come along with cellulite in the most heinous way! I loved nivea’s serum but after it finished I figured Id try other products in order to not remain stagnant and constantly switch it up. No products will get rid of cellulite completely but along with good diet and exercise products do exist that can improve the condition dramatically. I picked up Nip + Fabs Cellulite Fix a body sculpting gel that is supposed to help with those unsightly bulges and unevenness. This caffeine packed formula is supposed to help “sculpt” and reduce the appearance of the cellulite using ingredients like indian forskolin (which is thought to aid in cell rejuvenation).

Pros
-Gel Formula feels cool and hydrating against my skin
-It is fast absorbing and doesn’t need to be constantly rubbed in
-Non sticky
-Pleasant smell (sort of like roses)
-Easy to apply (application is smooth)
-Availible at drugstores like Target and online
-Obvious results and reduction (remember no product will get rid of cellulite completely)

Cons
-Price point is not comparable to the nivea brand but it is a more “high-end product” from the UK
-It is 150ml and I wish it came with more product!

All in all I will continue to try out different brands and consistencies. So far I prefer this over nivea’s serum because of the gel like consistency and my overall results and usage of the product. Cellulite be gone!

Nip & Fab at Target

Cellulite Fix

Tarte Maracuja Concealer

Posted on November 19, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

True life: I am addicted to concealer! Haha no but seriously guys I am obsessed with concealer, I am constantly experimenting with different brands, looking for the best one that will brighten and conceal the darkness under my eyes without looking too cakey. I currently have about 7 different brands that I use on rotation, well make that 8 because I just bought the Tarte cosmetics maracuja concealer. Drum roll please….. It was love at first sight!

Last week while attending a skincare class at Sephora (which was great by the way) I found my way over to the Tarte section. My initial thoughts were to just try on the concealer but I fell in love with it and had to bring it home with me. Upon applying it in the store my first reaction was wow this has a very thick consistency,(It’s full coverage) it also sets pretty quickly which means it should be blended into the area before it dries too much (I suggest using a beauty blender or any type of sponge to blend it evenly).

The weekend rolled around and I was so excited to put on an entire face of makeup to get the full effect of the concealer. I wore it for about 6 hours on Saturday while I ran some errands and this product DID NOT crease what so ever! My under eye circles were covered up and it really brightened my under eye area. It totally lives up to its name and I would recommend it to anyone who wants to simply brighten their face, has dark circles, or imperfections that they want to conceal.

I chose Medium Tan for my skin tone.

It appears a bit too light on my hands but it is perfect on my face.

This picture was taken on hour 4 of wearing the concealer.

Isn’t Sephora’s new tote super cute? I received a bunch of samples from the skincare class and I also bought some face cleansing sponges.

During the Skincare class we were asked what was our must have beauty product, I of course answered concealer (well for the time being, it changes every so often)
So I would love to know what are some of your favorite beauty products. Feel free to share in the comment section below!

Well that is all folks!
And always remember
“What you do, the way you think, is what makes you beautiful”- Scott Westerfeld

Tarte Maracuja Creaseless Concealer

Much Love,
-Gwen

My girl Autumn… pt 2

Posted on September 25, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Hey Everyone I’m Back! Part two of the “My girl Autumn” series is Fall nail polish. What better and might I add easy way to dive into the new season than by adding some cool hues to your hands and toes, it’s like an instant pick me up!(well for me it is anyway). This season it is all about metallics, dark navy’s and bold berry’s. Here are my top five must have picks.

From Left to right: Sally Hansen “Teal-y Fast” & “Shoot the Moon”, Revlon “Rich Raspberry”, Essie “For the twill of it” & “No more film

“Teal-y fast” is an amazing teal with lots of shimmer that reflects beautifully in sunlight.
“Shoot the moon” has a graphite look to it thanks to the smooth metallic particles in pewter and gold which also reflect amazingly in direct light.
“Rich Raspberry” is described perfectly, as it has a true berry “richness” to it.
“For the twill of it” is a multi chromed metallic which gives off pops of teal and purple, it is such a gorgeous color!
“No more film” has more of a creamy texture and it is a deep blue-ish violet.

Swatches (with Flash)

Swatches (No Flash)

Color I am currently wearing: (With Flash) Revlon “Rich Raspberry” in number 250 and it is my absolute favorite right now!

Color on my nails (No Flash)

What’s great about nail polishes is that there is no need to worry about sizing or a right fit, find a great color, layer it on and you’re pretty much set!
You can find these as well as other colors at your local Walmart or drugstore. Ulta is also great at carrying the most current colors.

Stay tuned for my last post in the My girl Autumn series… here’s a hint: This item will give you an edge while keeping you warm.

Hasta Pronto amigas (y amigos)
-Gwen

Nume Magic Wand

Posted on September 9, 2013 by itsapplesandorangesblog

Hey Everyone! It’s been way too long! The end of summer has approached NYC and I am so sad about it. I always think summer will be a relaxing time, but it never really is with all the traveling, parties, BBQ’s, picnics (I am not complaining) but being busy with life kept me away from blogging as often as I should, I know, I know my sister already lectured me on this, So sorry guys!

In other news I racked up some pretty awesome stuff over the last few weeks and I am super excited to share them with you! I will first start off with the very popular Nume magic curling wand. I ordered the 25mm barrel which I would describe as the “medium” sized one. I was looking to create “beachy waves” which is why I chose that size (The 32mm wouldn’t have much of an effect on my thin hair where as the 19mm would have given me tighter curls). Beachy waves are an awesome summer look which can also transition to any other time of the year. Check out how I created the wavy look down below.

25 mm Blue Magic Wand

Heat protecting glove included.

Wrapped my hair inward.

I curled all of my hair, once I was finished I opened up the curls to create the wavy look I was going for

Final look!

I am so happy with my Nume purchase! I also want to mention that my waves remained in tact the next morning as well, I just added some texturizing balm, hairspray and ran out the door! Fine haired girls can have awesome hair too!

Get Your Nume Magic Wand Here!

Hope this was helpful!
Toodles
-Gwen