Mia Mariu - Refreshing Foaming Gel Cleanser + GIVEAWAY

Hello Everyone! I hope all of you are having a great day. I thought it would be the perfect time to introduce to you the Mia Mariu Refreshing Foaming Gel Cleanser. With the heat of the weather constantly on the rise, this is the perfect product to help you refresh at the end of the day. Now, if you're wondering to yourself, haven't you done a review on Mia Mariu before? Why yes, that is correct! I was so impressed with their foundation (you can see that review here) that I had to try out some of their other products. This product review will also include a giveaway (the lucky winner was Kami Allen) just like the last one! Let's get started, shall we?

About The Company:

"The Mia Mariu philosophy makes the connection between beauty and health inside and out. Mía Mariu’s high performance products are formulated with the most natural ingredients available helping you achieve vibrant beauty and health inside and out.  Each unique product fuses nature and technology by combining the highest quality botanicals, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and peptides.  The result? Healthy products that provide a perfect balance that reflects itself through youthful, healthy, beautiful, glowing skin and renewed energy and vitality, at an exceptional value.  Mía offers natural skin care, professional makeup artist quality mineral cosmetics and brushes, fine fragrances and nutritional supplements to Reveal Your Unique 

Shade of Beauty!"

If you wish to check out any of their other products you can do so by going to their official website located here: Shop Mia Mariu or go straight to their catalog here: Mia Mariu Catalog.

The Product/My Thoughts

Refreshing Foaming Gel Cleanser - "With 8 natural botanicals and anti-inflammatory properties! Aloe, marigold, sea kelp, sea lettuce, orange peel, lemon, lime and grapefruit extracts are at the heart of this soft pampering cleanser. This formula contains high levels of Aloe, anti-inflammatory ingredients like Sea Lettuce and nourishing essential oils making it an extra gentle cleanser. Refreshing Foaming Cleanser is especially effective for sensitive skin including rosacea, maturing and even dry skin types. Suitable for all skin types. Non-irritating, paraben-free, sulfate-free, fragrance-free. Use AM and PM (4.0 fl.oz.)" 

The benefits that come from this cleanser alone is what first caught my eye. My skin is very sensitive to the sun, so I really appreciated the added benefit that took the redness away when I washed my face with it. I also found the smell very intoxicating; to me it smelled of oranges. It was also a clear gel which with time nicely foamed up when applying it to your face. If you're looking for this to be in place of a makeup remover, I would recommend you combine something with it. While it did take off my foundation, my eyeliner did have a little trouble coming off. This product however is not a makeup remover, its a cleanser so do keep that in mind. Other than that though, I really have nothing negatively to say about the product. It was another successful attempt for Mia Mariu, and I can't wait to see what the future holds for them. If you wish to purchase this product, it is $21, and you can purchase it here.

                 Overall Product Score: 4.7*

So, what do you think about Mia Mariu's product's? Do you have a favorite product from them? I love hearing your questions/comments, so feel free to leave the below, and don't forget to enter the giveaway below so you can win your very own Refreshing Foaming Gel Cleanser! Ends 8/6 at 11:59 PM EST. And remember to ALWAYS stay beautiful by staying YOU. ;)

 Mia Mariu’s Refreshing Foaming Gel Cleanser Giveaway.




*overall rating is based on a 5 point scale based off of product, pricing, texture, application, and longevity.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Alapure Cosmetics - French Vanilla Marula Body Butter

Good Afternoon! I hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend so far. Today, I want to talk to you about an amazing company, I have had the chance to work with as well as try one of their products. They are a newer company but after reviewing their products, I think that they have a really strong chance of making a strong mark in the beauty community. That company is Alapure Cosmetics.

About The Company

"Alapure cosmetics is dedicated to providing the purest ingredients approved for cosmetics. They are continually searching for new and better ways to give you the most radiant Alapure Lifestyle." Their main secret is a product called Marula Oil. "It is extracted from the kernels of the Marula Tree that is found in southern Africa. It is known in Africa as "miracle oil" because of its intensely nourishing, exceptional healing and strong anti-aging properties." They use the oil in the purest way as an extra-virgin form. If you wish to learn more about the company and their products you can learn more by going here. 

The owner, Jill Riley, travels around the world (originally from Trinidad) meeting people and finding different beauty ingredients from around the world. She has in my opinion an amazing gift at doing her job, and this is one of the many reasons why I see Alapure being a future brand to be seen. If you wish to learn more about Jill Riley and her journey you can go here.

The Product & My Thoughts

   French Vanilla Marula Body Butter  

"Let the uplifting buttery, vanilla blossom scent of French Vanilla soothes your senses while the deep conditioning power of natural anti-aging Marula Oil evens fine lines and works wonders on your skin and body. A combination of Tamanu Oil and Jojoba Oil will supply needed nutrients, while quenching the thirst of dehydrated skin."

I love the way the body butter feels on my skin. It's like nothing I have ever felt before. I know you may be thinking to yourself, What's the big deal it's just body butter! It's one of those things until you try it, you probably will never fully understand. It has a very luxurious feel and goes on smooth. A lot of body butters feel greasy; this is nothing like that. It's one of those items I could see in a spa. 

I am truly putting this body butter to the test! I am a little embarrassed to say I have really tough skin on my elbows and my feet. I wasn't about to show you-all my feet, ha-ha! However, I wasn't too embarrassed to show you my elbows. Below is a picture after I used the product three times a day for 5 days.

I have been trying it over my whole body, and significantly noticed a difference. I don't know if it's a combination of things or what, but I know I have used lotions in the past and they never did this to my skin. Accept this product has Marula Oil in it, I truly believe that is the secret to their products. If you wish to purchase this product it is $19.98 and you can purchase it here. 

They have products for every skin type and every nationality, you can view some of their other products here. They have the Marula oil in a 100% from, body butters, body lotions, as well as soaps! I am going to try out the soap tonight, so I will let you know how it goes. I can't wait to see what is in store for the future of Alapure Cosmetics!

Overall Product Score: 4.7*

So, I would love to know. Have you ever tried this product before? If not, what is your favorite thing about it? Please feel free to leave any comments or questions below, your feedback is welcome. Until next time, remember ALWAYS stay BEAUTIFUL by staying YOU! XOXO. *overall rating is based on a 5 point scale based off of product, pricing, texture, application, and longevity.

Neoteric Cosmetics - Alpha Hydrox Foaming Face Wash

Hello Everyone! I hope all of you are having a good day. Today I want to talk about an exciting new company, I just recently had the pleasure of trying. It is part of the Neoteric Cosmetics line, called Alpha Hydrox Foaming Face Wash (as seen above). Before we get into that though, lets talk more about the company and if you' make it to the end, the prize is a giveaway! ;)

About The Company

"Neoteric Cosmetics, Inc., a subsidiary of Scott's Liquid Gold, Inc., is a 60+ year old American manufacturing and distributing company whose clear and focused intent is to offer the best, most innovative & effective, high quality products at the most reasonable prices possible." "At a time when so many companies are succumbing to the "get it done cheaper" pressures, Neoteric Cosmetics stands firm in its belief that American manufacturing can be “a force to be reckoned with.""

"Alpha Hydrox anti-wrinkle skin care and Neoteric Diabetic skin care are both highly respected product lines embraced by both medical professionals and consumers alike." It's amazing to see all the other companies that Neoteric Cosmetics is apart of. Most likely, you have heard of some of their "sister/brother" companies/products before. You can check out the other ones here. About The Product/My Thoughts "Alpha Hydrox is a Non-drying formula that gently cleanses away makeup, dirt and environmental pollutants. It leaves skin soft, smooth and at the proper pH level to assure optimum results when used in conjunction with Alpha Hydrox AHA treatment products." I truly put this product to the test. Like most face products I receive, I used this while I was in the shower. Before that though I wore my heaviest makeup, including several primers and glitter. I was really impressed that it manged to get all of it off. In fact, I asked my husband several times to be sure since I didn't have a mirror at the time. I also liked the way it felt on my face.  I have very sensitive skin (even though I never told the company that) and so I was hesitant using it at first. It's even safe enough for eye makeup removal. It didn't irritate my skin at all, in fact it made it softer in my opinion.  Now, if you are a person who doesn't like scented products or they bother you, I would recommend this. It has a light soapy kind of smell to almost no scent at all. As well as being fragrance free it is gluten, soap, and oil-free! I think this is a great product for young (such as teenagers) and old. I feel as if everyone could use this product and it would not upset or bother it in any sort of way.  The greatest part it is only $7.49! If you wish to buy it you can do so here. Wait! There are two more things I forgot to mention. You can receive 25% off (on all products) by using the code FBJUL which will expire at the end of July. I am sure a new one will probably be released after, if you have to wait. I am also giving away one of these AWESOME face washes to ONE of my READERS!! All you have to do is enter below. Ends 8/2 at 2PM Eastern Time.

Overall Product Score: 4.4*

So, I would love to know. Have you ever tried this product before? If not, what is your favorite thing about it? Please feel free to leave any comments or questions below, your feedback is welcome. Until next time, remember ALWAYS stay BEAUTIFUL by staying YOU! XOXO. *overall rating is based on a 5 point scale based off of product, pricing, texture, application, and longevity. I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Allure By Amy's 100+ LIKES GIVEAWAY!!!

I am so proud of what this blog has done in the last year. So, as promised I have decided out of my own pocket to do a 100+ "Likes" GIVEAWAY!

You can find the bigger picture by clicking on the picture above or by going to our Facebook page for those of you that are interested, I will also be making it Allure By Amy - A Beautiful You's profile picture. I wanted to give products away that not only I liked, but are safe for my reader's as well. I hope you enjoy. To enter the giveaway all you have to do is go HERE. Contest Ends 8/24/14

        Below is what is included:

• Maybelline Color Show Nail Stickers (18) - color "Polka Dot"
• Nailene Daily Wear Naturals Medium Length
• Impress Press On Manicure Nails - 240 "Tweetheart"
• Impress Press On Manicure Nails - D120 "TGIF"
• 3 Little Chicks Soap Bar - Strawberries & Cream Soap Bar
• Julep - Rock Star Hand Creme 
• Libras Botanicals - Honey Bee Lotion Bar
• Sally Hansen Salon Effects Nail Polish Strips - 430 "Tri-bal It On"
• Julep Nail Polish - color "Lauren" (pink)
• Julep Nail Polish - color "Camille" (clear with sparkles)
• Sinful Colors Nail Polish - color #962 "Ocean Side" (dark blue)
• Ciate Paint Pot - color #019 "Mojito" (lime green)
• Cedar Creek Soaps - Blue Raspberry Ice Lipbalm
• Benefit - Ultra Plush Lip Gloss "Sugarbomb" 
• Benefit - Benetint (rose-tinted lip & cheek stain)
• Benefit - "They're Real!" Mascara
• Orglamix - Pure Mineral Perfecting Corrector in "Cerise"

Disclosure: This is no way in any shape or form associated with facebook, twitter, or any other social media sites. Allure By Amy - A Beautiful You is responsible for shipping of the prize. However, Allure By Amy - A Beautiful You is in no way responsible for damage or loss of the prize a tracking code will be provided though. Chance's of winning is based on number of entries. This is for the US Only. No substitutions may be made.

NEW Dial Coconut Water Refreshing Mango Body Wash + GIVEAWAY

Disclosure: Please ask permission before using my photos. Copyrighted.

Hello Everyone! So, it was a last minute decision to do this post. I was not expecting for this wonderful product to show up in my mail today. If your wondering what that wonderful product is, I am referring to the NEW Dial Coconut Water Refreshing Mango Body Wash! 

About The Product

"Dial Coconut Water Refreshing Mango is the first of its kind to contain water and refreshing mango for clean, healthy and hydrated skin. Let the fresh hints of green coconut and tropical mango whisk your mind away to distant island shores without ever leaving the shower."

"Coconut Water is a leading trend know to be rich in antioxidants and electrolytes that helps provide replenishing hydration. Mango is known for being nutrient rich and adds a touch of tropical freshness."

My Review

I  am not crazy about coconut and mango together, but this body wash is pleasantly surprising. I like the way it smells. It truly takes you to a tropical paradise. I also love the way it leather's on my skin. I have to have a body wash that leather's well, and this does that. It's also great for dry skin like mine and helps to keep it hydrated each time you use it. I also like how it doesn't discriminate to what gender uses it. Any family member can use it male or female, there is nothing feminine or masculine about it. I love that the moisture lasts until the next wash, and a little truly goes a long way. To make it go even farther I would recommend using a loofah like the one below. 

Overall Product Score: 4.3*

If you want to try this body wash well, I have a wonderful opportunity for you to try it! I am picking THREE WINNERS to win a product coupon that is valued up to $4.49 for a FREE Dial Coconut Water Refreshing Body Wash 11.75 oz size or larger. All you have to do is go here to enter. For mobile users go here if you are still having trouble. The giveaway will end July 31st, 2014. 

What do you think about Dial body washes? Do you have a favorite one? Feel free to leave any comments/questions below! Remember until next time to ALWAYS stay BEAUTIFUL by STAYING YOU!! XOXO.

*overall rating is based on a 5 point scale based off of product, pricing, texture, application, and longevity.

Beauty Box 5 - "Trying It Out" July Edition

Hello Everyone! So, I have been putting off reviewing this because I have had other products coming in. However, I decided to give Beauty Box 5 another month because I only had to pay shipping. I actually liked this box a lot more than last month, and now I am on the fence about rather I want to subscribe for next month.

Beauty Box 5 is a monthly subscription box that includes 5 products each month (hence the name) for a $12 charge. I think it is a wonderful box for people beginning to get into beauty products or wanting to get into the beauty box subscription world.

If you decide you like what I received in my box and wish to sign up for beauty box 5 you can do so HERE.

HASK Argan Oil Instense Deep Conditioning Hair Treatment

"Plagued with dry, damaged hair? No more! Restore your mane to all its shining glory with this thick, nourishing cream that delivers results that last for two weeks!" There are some things I like and some things not so much. The things I don't like has to do with the packaging. I thought it was just Beauty Box 5's choice to use the packet, but when you buy the product it comes like this as well. Yet on the directions it says you only need half of it. I'm not one for saving foil packets, simply because it gets messy or dried out. So, its either use it all or not at all. As far as the product itself, I love it! I think Argan Oil is very good for the hair and a staple in my hair care routine. PRICE: $2.49

Revlon Bold Lacquer Mascara

"Thanks to its lacquered formula, this mascara not only delivers volume and definition, but actually lifts lashes - no curler necessary. Oh, and did we mention that it doesn't smudge or flake? A total steal." This is being raved about by all the bloggers right now, and I have to agree that I like it. It does everything it says it does as long as you put two or three coats on. 

PRICE: $7.99

H2O Plus Aqualibrium Marine Cleansing Gel

"Put your best face forward! Made with sea salt and energizing marine botanicals, this oil-free cleanser gently exfoliates while protecting your pretty cheeks from free radicals and environmental damage." Cleans well and doesn't strip the skin of all its natural goodness. It doesn't foam but rather a gel, so it just depends on what kind of face washes you prefer, rather you will like it or not. Even though I prefer foams, I do like the way it feels on my face. PRICE: $18 (for 4fl oz.)

Body Drench Candy Licious Lips

"Give your lips a treat! Infused with beeswax, coconut oil, and vitamin E, these candy-flavored lip balms taste like the real thing (without the guilt or sugar rush) and are utterly irresistible to men and small children, so apply with caution!" I could only find this one place online and they sold it as a 3-pack for $21, so I am hoping I can locate the other flavors (specifically cotton candy) at Sally Beauty Supply. I love the way it taste and feels on my lips. PRICE $3.99

SimySkin Anti-aging Eye Serum

"Protect those pretty peepers! With the help of nanomedicine, vitamin B12, and folic acid, this revolutionary serum targets the biggest skin concerns in each ago group to combat puffy under eyes, diminish wrinkles, and regenerate skin cells." I am not sure what is up with beauty boxes and eye serum's lately, but they are always welcome, and when I find that magical one that makes these fine lines go away I will be sure to report! Who knows maybe this is the one? We shall see. What's cool about this one, is its designed for my age (barely) 18-25. 

PRICE: $70 (for a 1oz)

So, what do you think of Beauty Box 5? Do you think it would be something you would be interested in signing up for? If you subscribe, what did you receive in your box? I love to hear your question and/or comments so leave them below! And remember STAY BEAUTIFUL by STAYING YOU! :-D

Exfolimate - Face and Body Exfoliation

Good Afternoon! I hope all of you are having a wonderful evening. Before I get started I want to reiterate that these reviews are 100% my opinion and my opinion only. You may not always agree with my reviews, but your always more than welcome to leave your comment in the box at the end of this review and tell me your opinion as well (or leave; I hope that you don't though!). I am not and will never be a blogger to hide or delete your comments, and as long as you are respectful, I promise to be the same!  

Today, I want to talk to you about a product I received called Exfolimate (as seen in the picture above). When I was first asked to review this new tool, I quickly jumped at the chance. Exfoliating is a great way to keep the skin looking beautifully smooth and fresh. If there was an easier way to find it then what I was doing now then count me in!

About The Product

(above is the Exfolimate product for the body)

"Exfolimate is a new and innovative way to physically remove the dirt, oils and debris lingering on the outermost layer of your skin. With a gentle steel exfoliating edge and cell catching micro-grooves, Exfolimate glides along the contours of your skin to unveil the smoother, younger layers of skin hiding beneath.



The Exfolimate comes as a two-piece tool set and is an all-natural way to exfoliate your body and face. With only water and no other chemicals, Exfolimate is your best mate for spa standard exfoliation right in the comfort of your shower or bath.



And no need to worry about hygiene – unlike germ-ridden loofahs and pumice stones, Exfolimate will not harbor any bacteria or chemicals, and it is super easy to clean. Simply run the skin smoothing edge under warm running water and your tool is ready to go for your next Exfolimate experience.

​

Every Exfolimate tool comes with a handy hanging cord, so after you’ve finished rinsing your tool of any dirt, oils or debris, simply hang the tool in your shower or bath to dry."

It's an Australian product and has made its way to the U.S. for $29.99. You can locate the product at many different stores including drugstores like Walgreens (where I saw it at the other day). To see a full list of retailers you can go to their site: HERE.

Review

To me the tool reminds me of a razor without the sharp blade; with Exfolimate the edge is blunt. It's main purpose is to take away dead skin cells. There is absolutely no way to cut yourself and the tool is completely safe. 

The first time I tried it, I used it on my face and not my body. I thought to myself, I must be doing something wrong. The directions said to hold it at a 90 degree angle as well as to use it on dampened skin. So, then I ran the bath water as hot as I could stand it and tried to open my pores like the directions said. I then proceeded to use it on my face and now my legs to see if it would work differently. Yet, nothing I did no matter what the angle, or pressure, it didn't give me a great exfoliation. 

Before making my final decision, I even got my husband to try it out in the shower without telling him anything about how I felt accept the directions. Yet, no luck for him either. I also tried the product again on my face with body oil to soften the skin.

Above the face tool with the attachment to hang it up or to put on your wrist

Perhaps with more time of using it I will feel differently. I really wanted to like this product!! I wanted to jump aboard with all the other people who have had success with this product. It's defiantly a product you have to have the time for. I'm always hurrying in and out of the shower, and just simply don't have the time. It just wasn't for me, I'd rather keep to what I know works and use my facial/body scrubs. 

Overall Product Score: 2.9*

So, I NEED and WANT to know. Have you ever tried this product before? How did you use it and did it work for you? Please feel free to leave any comments or questions below, your feedback is welcome with open arms. Until next time, remember ALWAYS stay BEAUTIFUL by staying YOU! XOXO.

*overall rating is based on a 5 point scale based off of product, pricing, texture, application, and longevity.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Ipsy - July 2014

Good Afternoon! I hope everyone is having a joyriffic (yes I created this...lol) Monday! Once again, it's that time of the month again and Ipsy is here. I think I received a pretty good bag this month and would love to share. This month's theme is Sensationally Sunkissed.

 If you don't know what Ipsy is its a beauty subscription bag designed just for you (by taking the beauty quiz) for $10 a month. The $10 also includes shipping. Beauty Guru Michelle Phan curates the bags, and you generally receive 5 items. 

If you wish to sign up you can sign up through my personal referral link here: Ipsy Sign Up

This month's bag was a waterproof hot-pink shade. I didn't like this bag until I saw it in person, and now I love it.

BareMinerals 

5-in-1 BB Advanced Performance Cream Eyeshadow Broad Spectrum SPF 15

"Meet the next generation in eyeshadow: creamy, long-wearing color meets exceptional skincare benefits and broad spectrum SPF protection. Chock-full of skin-loving ingredients, this breakthrough product delivers 5 benefits in one luxurious formula: 12-hour long-wearing color, super-charged primer, powerful brightening benefits, smoothes fine lines, and protects with SPF." There was barely nude and this one, which is the color divine wine. I'm not crazy about the color, and even though its a small sample; I love the formula. A little goes a long way. It goes on smoothly and lasts a really long time; gotta love the new advances in makeup! 

FULL SIZE: $18

Elizabeth Mott Tints & Sass

"The gentle and lightweight formula feels like it's barely there, unlike heavy lipsticks and rouges. The soft tipped applicator makes it ridiculously easy to swipe onto lips and the apples of the cheeks, creating a natural yet unforgettably sexy glow." This is the first time I have ever gotten a cheek/lip stain from Ipsy, and I am glad I got chosen for this one. I thought the red would be too dark, but its lighter than it looks. The formula is actually really easy to blend. I haven't found a product yet from Elizabeth Mott that I wasn't impressed with. 

FULL SIZE: $22.99 (this is a full size!)

Pur~lisse Pur~protect essential daily moisturizer SPF 30

"Recently featured in Vogue as Editor’s Favorite Summer Sun Product,this anti-aging moisturizer has SPF 30 built-in, so you’ll get extra protection from incidental sun exposure. You’ll love the lightweight, yet nourishing, texture. Plus, it doesn’t leave skin with a white tint, so you can use with or without makeup. This moisturizer dries down to a healthy glow, and is perfect for sensitive skin." I've tried the Pur~lisse hydra-balance before and this is a lot like it accept this you wear during the day, and it has SPF. It can be a little pricey if you're on a budget like me, but it's an amazing product and works to keep the skin moisturized. 

FULL SIZE: $55

Models Own Nail Polish in Red Sea

"The Models Own SPLASH collection dives straight into summer. Revitalize your entire polish collection; wear alone for a wash effect, or over your favorite color polish for a glistening top coat. Inspired by the sea and distant shores, this pretty collection will have you dreaming of summer haze and tropical sun." I've never heard of Models Own until now. I must admit I have over 100 polishes, but have nothing like this color. It's very unique and I can't wait to discover the different ways I can use it. 

FULL SIZE: $8.54 (this is a full size!!)

Marrakesh Hair Care Marrakesh Endz

"Our powerful blend of nutrient-rich Argan Oil, from Morocco, ultra fortifying Hemp Seed Oil, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, and Panthenol seals and repairs split ends, while preventing future damage. The ends will naturally look and feel thicker with long lasting frizz and static control that is safe for color treated hair!" I think every woman no matter what type of hair you have can agree this is a product that is useful. I used it for the first time tonight, and so far from what I can tell it works quite well. I also like the scent and texture is easy to blend. 

FULL SIZE: $5.99 (this is a full size product!!)

So, what did you think of this month's "Sensationally Sunkissed" Ipsy bag for July? Do you subscribe to Ipsy, and if not what's been keeping you from doing so? I would love to hear what you got in your bag this month, along with your questions and comments. Feel free to leave them below!