Cellessence Anti-Aging Duo + GIVEAWAY & COUPON CODE

Hello Everyone! I hope all of you are having a wonderful day so far. Today, I want to talk to you about two amazing product's I came across, that I just have to tell you about. I was super excited to try these new brands of anti-aging products from Cellessence. I received Cellessence Anti-Aging Face Cream & Nuvacell Wrinkle Repair Eye Serum. Both of which are said to have amazing benefits for the skin. I have tried a lot of different anti-aging products in the past, but none quite like these.

Cellessence Anti-Aging Face Cream

The first item I received was the Cellessence Anti-Aging Face Cream. I immediately noticed the packaging which gives it that high-end feel, along with the ingredients in the product. The ingredients focus on hydration, (I desperately need this!), antioxidants, and stimulating DNA Repair just to name a few. To those who don't know, DNA Repair helps to rid of wrinkles and loss of that natural glow your skin gives you.  So far, I am very intrigued!

I proceeded to rub the cream onto my face and neck. Note, each time I have used it, I did it before putting on my makeup. I like how it absorbed into my skin ever so quickly; it has a thick texture but a lightweight feel. I also really liked that it didn't leave my face feeling greasy. The problem with a lot of anti-aging creams is they hydrate your face, and leave it greasy. I appreciate that Cellessence understands the concept of hydration without having to make a cream greasy. 

I also thought the smell was nice as well, and was very light. Everyone can have a different opinion on how a cream smells, but to me the best way I can describe it is a light citrus smell, and EXACTLY like fruity pebbles. It's funny because I even had my husband say the same thing, without telling him anything I was thinking.

It's only been a few week's, but I already notice a huge improvement in the texture of my skin. I have a problem keeping it hydrated, and by using this that's no longer an issue. I also feel as if my skin has that natural glow I've been missing. Having anemia my skin tends to lack color, and while I am by no means saying it's a cure, it help's to give my skin that boost it needs. 

If you wish to purchase the product you can buy it on https://www.buycellessence.com/. It retails on their site for $99.95. However, with my limited time coupon code it would only be $49.98, which is a steal in my opinion. They also have an anti-aging package you can buy it in as well, which you can use the code for. You can use the code for almost all of their products accept for the talc & soothing mist. 

To use that coupon code type in "AMB50" at checkout where it say's "Enter your coupon here."

Overall Product Score: 4.7*

Nuvacell Wrinkle Repair Eye Serum

The next product I received, was their Nuvacell Wrinkle Repair Eye Serum. This item I was really excited to try as well, because as much as I hate to admit - dark circles and fine lines are starting to become an issue as I age. 

I love the container it comes in. It's very sanitary, I don't have to worry about washing my hands afterwards, and it always dispenses the perfect amount. It also has a light smell, accept the smell is very different. It smells just like you are stepped into a field of oranges. 

I found the science behind it very interesting. 75% of users had a decrease of wrinkles & fine lines, 93% decrease of dark circles, and 82% an increase of Collagen Productions. As for me? Since I've been using it, I've definitely had a decrease of dark circles. My skin also looks more rested around my eyes since I've been using it. I haven't noticed my fine lines diminishing, but I still think it may be too early. I look forward to seeing as I get older, how the serum continues to work for me.

If you wish to purchase the product you can buy it on https://www.buycellessence.com/. It retails on their site for $79.95. However, with my limited time coupon code it would only be $39.98, which is a steal in my opinion. They also have an anti-aging package you can buy it in as well, which you can use the code for. You can use the code for almost all of their products accept for the talc & soothing mist. 

To use that coupon code type in "AMB50" at checkout where it say's "Enter your coupon here."

Overall Product Score: 4.5*

I am really impressed with both of the products, and I am so glad I got to try them out. I look forward to trying out their other product's in the future, and would highly recommend you giving them a go. Don't forget to use "AMB50" to save 50% and/or you can try your luck below and WIN the duo which is a $180 VALUE! 

What do you think about Cellessence? Leave your question's and/or comments below! 

NOTE: Please US ONLY! 2 sets of entries per IP address, cheating will NOT be tolerated. Must be 18 and older to enter. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Yalmeh - Foundation Brush

Welcome back! I hope all of you are doing well, and have had a wonderful holiday. 

Yalmeh makes all sort's of really well-made skincare products, but I was surprised to find out that they also make brushes as well. I have found an amazing new foundation brush, and wanted to share with you about it.

About The Product

- Yalmeh is the only authorized seller of the brush. 

- According to Yalmeh - The Yalmeh Y19 premium quality Foundation brush will spotlight your natural beauty and leave a flawless finish and they goes as far as to say it is like a MAC foundation brush. 

- Created From Top Grade Synthetic Fiber Materials For Long Lasting Use.

- Higher Quality Fibers Prevent Shedding for as long as you own the brush. 

- Easy Clean Up With No Smell, High Quality Hand Made With Wood Handles. 

- The Perfect Brush Even on the go - Yalmeh Y19 is Great for Setting, Bronzing and Applying Blush.

- Can be used as a Liquid Foundation Brush, Powder Foundation Brush, Foundation Blending Brush, & a Foundation Makeup Brush.

If you wish to buy the Yalmeh Foundation Brush it is on sale right now on Amazon for $11.95 & free shipping if you have prime. It is regularly $29.99, so the price is a steal. To purchase the brush go here: BUY Yalmeh Foundation Brush

My Thoughts

Let me tell you, I have had a lot of crappy brushes. I have had brushes where all the bristles have fallen out, and brushes where the handle has come off. If going through this has taught me anything, it has taught me that if you plan to wear makeup, the best thing you can do for yourself and your makeup is invest in quality brushes

Not only is this brush of quality, but it has helped me get my foundation done quicker as well. I don't own a MAC foundation brush, so I can't say for sure if it's as good as one. I do own some really expensive brushes though costing just as much, if not more than a MAC brush. 

The Yalmeh brush compared to my other foundation brush; I must say I was really impressed. It is so soft that when I first got it my girlfriend saw it, and thought it was made of some sort of animal. 

Another thing that drives me nuts, is when bristles fall out. If your brush does this a lot, word of advice take it back, it doesn't get better! I had no problem with this brush shedding though, and haven't had a bristle disperse from it yet. 

I would highly recommend the Yalmeh Foundation brush. For the price of $11.95 with the quality of a $35+ brush you really can't beat it. They also have 100% money back guarantee, which I love that they are that confident about the product, (they should be!) and offer that if you aren't satisfied. Making it so there is nothing to lose and everything to gain. 

Here is a picture of my makeup after using the Yalmeh Foundation brush.

 I want to know! What do you think about the Yalmeh Foundation Brush? Have you ever tried their products before? If not what's keeping you from doing so? I love hearing your questions and comments below. So, feel free to leave them below. 

Until next time... 

REMEMBER to stay BEAUTIFUL by STAYING YOU!

XOXO. 

Ipsy - December 2014

Greetings! I hope everyone is enjoying the holidays. I just received my Ipsy bag for the month of December due to my some billing issues, however I am excited to share with you what I got. This month's theme was "Thinking of You."

If you don't know what Ipsy is, it's a beauty subscription bag designed just for you, (by taking the beauty quiz) that cost $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

Each month you receive a bag with your Ipsy items in them. The bag was a little different from usual month's. This bag was more of a pencil case size. It was just a basic black bag, what gave it character though was the detachable Ipsy keychain. I plan on putting the Ipsy Keychain on my own personal keychain, which I think is so awesome that you can do.

Let's see what I got this month...

(click to enlarge any of the pictures)

Cailyn Cosmetics Just Mineral Eye Polish "#5 Orchid" - "Made with 100% raw mineral powder, this highly pigmented satiny powder not only colors your eyes with shimmery, gorgeous hues, but is also safe to wear long hours. 

The easy to use built-in sponge tip allows smooth application and seamless blending of colors. Whether you want to give a subtle wash of color or go for dramatic smokey makeup, CAILYN Just Mineral Eye Polish will be a girl's best friend."

I am in love with the new Cailyn Cosmetics Mineral Eye Polish. The formula is really nice, but the way they combine it with the applicator (which is ingenious!) makes this eye polish an innovator in new eye cosmetics. I can't wait to try other colors such as "Cotton Candy" and "Ocean."

Price: $15 (This is FULL SIZE!)

Bumble and Bumble Straight Blow Dry  - "Straight Blow Dry for coarse, curly or frizzy hair. Make short work of smoothing and frizz-fighting rituals with this heat-protective styling balm that keeps blow dries soft and sleek for up to 3 days. To create your perfect style, work evenly through damp hair then blow-dry with your favorite Bb.Brush. Start small (try a dime-sized amount) then build as necessary."

My hair is extremely wavy so for anything to straighten it is a plus. I don't blow dry my hair a lot, but I do use a straightener on it often. I have found rather it's the heat from the blow dryer (which of course works best) or the heat from a straightener this balm helps to keep it straight a lot longer than without it.

Full Size: $14.00 (this is only .5 FL OZ & full size is 2 OZ)

NYX Cosmetics Butter Lip Balm - "Dip your lips in a sheer wash of color with NYX Butter Lip Balm. One swipe leaves dry lips feeling supple and hydrated. This Buttery Lip Balm is addictively soft and scrumptious and perfect for adding a subtle hint of color for a naturally flirtatious pout. Apply directly to bare lips or apply it over lip liner for more intense color."

Ipsters who sample NYX Butter Lip Balm will either receive: Red Velvet (pure red), Parfait (fuchsia with blue undertones), Marshmallow (pure nude) or Lady Fingers (mauve). 

I received the color "Lady Fingers" which was a mauve color. I think out of the 4 this was the perfect shade for my skin tone. I commend Ipsy for doing a great job with my bag this month, I think if I would of received Marshmallow, (pure nude) I wouldn't be as happy. It's such a pretty shade of pinkish purple, and the balm goes on like smooth butter!

Price: $4.00 (This is FULL SIZE!)

Tarte "Lights, Camera, Lashes" 4-in-1 Mascara (Deluxe version) - "Like a pushup bra for your lashes, tarte’s best-selling mascara lengthens, curls, volumizes and conditions to deliver a 330% increase in lash volume instantly. The high-performance formula is also infused with naturally-derived olive esters to help nourish and protect lashes."

I was super excited to receive a Tarte item in my Ipsy bag, and I hope to see more from this brand. The website says it is a deluxe version but it's actually smaller than a deluxe version. The deluxe on the website is .13 FL OZ while this one we received is .10 FL OZ. I enjoy the formula, but was a little disappointed with the size and packaging. I think the cute packaging in the REAL deluxe and standard version, is one of the reasons why I like this mascara. Nonetheless, it still is an amazing formula, and I am glad to see Ipsy bring this brand to the bag this month.

Price: $10 (.10 FL OZ while full deluxe .13 FL OZ)

Swissco Electroplated Eyelash Curler - "High quality, durable eyelash curler firmly catches each lash at the root for beautifully lifted and intense curls. Round shaped curve ensures that you get the perfect curl while preventing pinching."

This is a really good solid and affordable eyelash curler. If your in need of a new one, but not wanting to spend a lot, this is the way to go. I like the purple color too. It is also available in blue as well.

Price: $5.00 (FULL SIZE!)

BONUS ITEM

Dr. Lin Skincare Medicated Acne Cleansing Wipes - "Purify clogged pores and control breakouts with these convenient wipes. Medicated formula penetrates deep into pores while the exfoliating towelette wipes away dirt & oil. Can be used in addition to cleansing for extra clarifying benefits. 35 Towelettes."

I end up using 500 of my Ipsy points and getting these. You get Ipsy points by reviewing the products, sharing, and referring. I think these work really well, and are a great thing to use if your in a rush to get your makeup off also. 

Price: $8.99 (FULL SIZE!)

What a way to end the year, Ipsy really went out with a bang, and I loved my bag! So, what did you think of this month's "Thinking Of You" Ipsy bag for December? Do you subscribe to Ipsy, what variation did you receive? 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!

 

Michelle Phan - "Make Up" Book Review

Ho Ho Ho....Merry Christmas! Not quite, but in just in a few more days and we will have made it! As it get's closer to Christmas (or whatever you may celebrate) it start's to get colder as well. What more perfect time to wrap up in a nice warm blanket or sit by a fire and read a book. 

Not just any book, but a book that in my opinion every woman should have; Michelle Phan Makeup - Your Life Guide to Beauty, Style, and Success Online and Off! Why should you own this book? Rather you're a beginner putting on skincare or makeup products for the first time today or a makeup artist, this book is useful for every woman. Even if you don't like makeup, this book contains everything. From skincare to how find a job you will find at least one chapter that pertains to where you are at in life!

(click to enlarge any of the pictures, please ask my permission before taking any of my photo's.)

How cute is the inside of this book? 

Who is Michelle Phan?

If your not sure who Michelle Phan is then you are missing out on knowing who I look up to everyday, and one of the many things that inspires me to write this blog. She not only is a Youtube Guru (check her video's out here: https://www.youtube.com/user/MichellePhan), but is the co-founder of the popular monthly beauty subscription service Ipsy (to read more about Ipsy reviews I have done either search Ipsy in the search bar at the bottom of the page or go here for a recent one: http://amyballou.blogspot.com/2014/11/ipsy-november-2014.html). 

In the book "Make Up," you will learn more about her life including her parent's struggle and about how she grew up. I won't ruin it for you, but it truly is inspiring to learn that she is not much different from most of us. 

One of the most interesting facts in reading about her life, is finding out that her Anime (Japanease animation) paintings is what lead her to start her online video's. 

The Contents

After you learn about her life and where she is today. It goes into the next section of the book which is about Skin Care. Some of the thing's she talks about I knew, but some of them I didn't. This was really intriguing since I thought I knew just about everything their was to learn about skin care. 

I like how she includes easy everyday recipes or tips that she uses. Such as this one seen above about exfoliating your lips.

After she talks about skincare we get into the Makeup portion of the book, which was really fascinating to me. No matter what level you are at with your knowledge on makeup it speaks to everyone.

From what type of foundation is best for your face to what shape face you have. I found it interesting that knowing your face shape has a lot to do with how your makeup should be applied. Knowing just these few things, has helped me apply my makeup better.

After the makeup section she goes into hair and nails. I love this section especially, because it helps teach you better techniques at taking care of your hair along with how to give yourself the perfect manicure at home.

Fashion Tips & Tricks is great for knowing how to pair the clothing you already have together.

Digital Dos and Don'ts is rather comical but tells it like it is, and is a section every person who is on the internet or sends text messages should read!

Find (and keep) a Job you Love is a very useful section and even includes samples of a cover letter and resume, along with tips on how to nail an interview.

Turn your Passion into a Profession teaches how to be a boss and not being afraid of failure.

Then the last section of the book, "Modern Manners Made Easy" teaches proper table manners, when your invited to a party, writing thank-you notes and e-mails, and overall how to conduct yourself in everyday life.

This is now what I call my "beauty bible." I always find myself picking it up, and looking for something in it I need to know. If you wish to purchase this book (hard cover) it retail's for $23.00. However, I have seen it online lately (via Amazon) for $13.80 which you can purchase here: Buy MICHELLE PHAN'S Book. I think this price is more than fair for the amount of useful content you receive.

I want to know.... What do you think about the book? Do you know who Michelle Phan is? If not do you think this would be something that is useful to you? Feel free to leave your questions and comments below. I love hearing your feedback! 

Until next time, Remember to STAY BEAUTIFUL by STAYING YOU! XOXO ~ Amy

Bulu Box Subscription Review + COUPON

Greetings! How is everyone today? The product I will be sharing with you today is a box I am quite familiar with, but haven't had the chance to try. That box being, Bulu Box. 

What is Bulu Box you ask? It is a monthly subscription service in which you pay $10 a month, and in return you get a box each month filled with 4-5 premium vitamins, supplements, and overall lifestyle items that help in all area's of health. There are two different types of boxes, both costing $10. You can choose the original box or the weight loss box (which is my personal fav). The weight loss box does not only include vitamins and supplements, but weight loss items as well. 

My favorite part? Each month you can earn up to 100 Reward Points (which equals to $10!) just for subscribing and sharing your thoughts about the products. 

If you wish to subscribe to Bulu Box you can do so by going here, but WAIT! Use coupon code "AMAZING" and get 3 months for ONLY $10!!! That's like getting two boxes for free. I have never seen Bulu Box subscription go this low on their pricing, so if you are interested in trying it don't wait long, because I am sure this coupon code won't last long.

Now let's see what was in this month's box...

FIRST LOOK

(click to enlarge you can do this for all photos)

I was very intrigued by the first look, since one of the first thing I noticed was the voucher. I also love the orange tissue paper everything is wrapped in.

I really appreciate the fact that each box comes with an information card with details about each of the products. I personally think all subscription boxes should have this. It makes things less confusing for the recipient of the box. The other pamphlet included some great gift idea's that bulu box is selling in their shop.

Each time you use or try a product in the box (on the back of the information card) it gives you a place to write down how you felt before, and how you felt after using the product. I think that the "Sample Journal" is great idea, so you can figure out exactly if the product works for you or not.

I would call this more of an extra than an actual item in the box, I have seen these in quite a few subscription boxes over the years. It is a $100 wine voucher, but you have to purchase $60 worth of wine to use it. If you drink wine a lot I think it's a great deal, but for me personally I don't have the extra $60 to spend.

Supreme Protein Accelerate Bar - "These tasty bars were designed as a morning source of protein to kick your metabolism into high gear. Made with natural sweeteners and flavors, these gluten-free sweeteners and flavors, these gluten-free bars come with 15g of protein, fewer than 200 calories and still taste amazing."

This was the first protein bar I have ever had where I actually ate the whole thing, and still wanted more. The strawberry banana tasted like that of a fig newton. I really enjoyed it and am hoping I can find them in local stores around my area. I am thinking this would be a great way to not only to replace a snack or meal, but to speed up my metabolism and lose weight.

Estimated Price: $1.68

OxyLife Royal Flush - "A healthy digestive system is key to improving metabolism and increasing weight loss. Royal Flush helps eliminate toxins and poisons my stimulating the large intestine to rid your body of excess waste."

Sometimes I have really bad constipation. I tried this and then about 24hrs later I was using the bathroom with no trouble. I think it's a really good product. I like that it's an all natural supplement. Some of the things in it include Ginger, Garlic, Cayenne, Jamaican Ginger Rhizome, and Cascara Sagrada Bark.

Estimated Price: $1.00 

(bottle of 60 for $29.99)

Probium Multi Blend 12B - "Probium Probiotics Multi-Blend 12B is a proprietary blend that gives you two times the added nutrients and vitamins. Made with 12 billion CFU of a Proprietary Blend per serving of Bifidobacterium lactis, Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium longum and Microflora. The Veggie Capsules have delayed release and also helps protect probiotics from Stomach Acid. Taken once every day, this capsule will keep you healthy and feeling great all day long!"

I didn't really notice a difference after taking the sample size, but I think this would be great to promote healthy digestion. I would love to try the full size and see how it works for me.

Estimated Price: $3.50

(bottle of 60 for $33.99)

DSpeed Fast-Melt Vitamin D3 - "These fast-dissolving tablets melt within seconds of hitting your tongue to give you the immune support and cellular health benefits of vitamin D3. Dspeed is gluten, soy, dairy, and preservative free."

I try to avoid extra Vitamin D or anything related, since it is the cause of my kidney stones. I think for anyone else though who doesn't have these problems, it would be a good thing to take to help your immune system. I see it being especially useful the colder it gets, and the more that colds are going around.

Estimated Price: $.50?

(bottle of 60 on SALE for $6.95)

Twinlabs CleanSeries Veggie Protein - "This vegetarian protein is great for building lean muscle and suppressing - appetite between meals. This enzyme-assisted formula also helps aid digestion to promote a faster metabolism. Unlike other protein powders, it contains no artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners.

I received the vanilla, they also have chocolate. I really don't like most protein shakes, however with an added banana this taste just like a milkshake. It's not something I would want to drink everyday, however if you are looking for a good protein shake that helps to suppress your appetite, along with building muscles I think it would work rather well.

Estimated Price: $1.50?

(Available in 1.75 lbs. [about 22 servings] for $39.99)

Complete Nutrition Green Coffee Bean Extract - "From the makers of products like CTS360 and ReFirm, Complete Nutrition's Green Coffee Bean Extract is a pure source of chlorogenic acid, which has been shown to help promoted increase weight loss."

I haven't been using this for very long, but so far it is my favorite item in the box! It gives me a ton of energy without any jitters as well as helps to curb my appetite. I also like the fact that it is a full size product, making just this item alone twice as much as the box costs!

Price: $19.99

(FULL SIZE!)

I love that Bulu Box caters to getting healthy and focuses on all the great products for your body. You really can't beat the price either. You get around $27 worth of products, making it worth almost 3X the cost of the box. Not only is that important, but knowing your doing something good for yourself as well I think is hard to put a price on. 

If you wish to subscribe to Bulu Box you can do so by going here, but WAIT! Use coupon code "AMAZING" and get 3 months for ONLY $10!

What do you think about the Bulu Box Subscription Box? Do you subscribe to any boxes like this? I love hearing your questions and comments! Please, feel free to leave them below.