StyleMint Is Finally Here - and I Bought Something

The long anticipated StyleMint by Mary-Kate and Ashley is finally here!

I am a little disappointed in their lack of selection. There are basically four t-shirt designs this month, with a few variations in color totaling up to eight different t-shirts. I don't think the basic t-shirts are quite worth $30 - unless of course, you're used to spending that amount of money on American Apparel tees.

I dislike the rise in the new style of shopping employed by the BeachMint family and its fellow rivals. Quite frankly, canceling monthly shopping memberships is a pain, no matter how easy they try to make it.

As a long time fan of Mary-Kate and Ashley, I am willing to give StyleMint a try. I just ordered the Melrose shirt. I hope the real-life quality and style surprises me because if it doesn't then I am out and never looking back.

*Update: I received my StyleMint package. You can read about it here.

The Discontinued Chanel Teint Innocence Foundation

I have a dilemma. I love my Chanel Teint Innocence foundation, but it was discontinued a while back and replaced by Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua. Teint Innocence was the lightest of all Chanel foundations and I'm still pretty upset about it being discontinued. From what I have heard, Vitalumiere is a heavier coverage foundation. I have not gotten a chance to try Vitalumiere and would love to try it to see if its a good replacement.

Chanel Teint Innocence Foundation provides the most beautifully soft and light coverage.

JewelMint Sea Breeze Earrings

I'm showing you another JewelMint purchase. I've been rather obsessed with them lately and bought about four new sets. I'll do a separate post on all of my JewelMint purchases.

I didn't get JewelMint's Sea Breeze Earrings when it first came out because I thought it looked rather cheap. It wasn't until it was sold in a set with the Midas ring (2 for 1 special) that I bought it. Boy, am I glad I did because it is now my favorite pair of earrings. I like it even more than my beloved Oyster Earrings.

JewelMint Sea Breeze Earrings from their May Collection

The woven rope design features frayed ends and a series of three knots.

On a totally unrelated note, mosquitoes are destroying me this summer! Right after I took this picture, a giant mosquito bit my face. I had a bite on my leg yesterday that swelled up to the size of quarter. Why me?

Even a Beauty Blogger Needs a Good Mouse

As I am a lazy blogger who likes to blog in bed, I tend not to use a mouse. Since receiving my new Smartfish Whirl™ Mini Notebook Mouse with ErgoMotion™, I have been using it daily! It allows me to use the mouse on any uneven surface - even from the comfort of my bed.

Up to 800-dpi hi-def laser sensitivity, 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity and extra long battery life.

Pivots naturally as you move, automatically changing it’s angle infinitely to match your wrist and hand.

Whirl™ Mini's patented ErgoMotion™ pivot system makes your mouse feel like it's "floating on air!"

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com created by WebBizIdeas.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

Quick Look with Sigma Bare Eyeshadow Palette

Sigma's Bare Eyeshadow Palette

I think Bare will still be my favorite of the three palettes. :) Flare is a close second; Dare has amazing colors, but is definitely less practical for everyday use.

Interested in Sigma Beauty? Click here to get a Sigma coupon code for 10% off your Sigma purchase.

Get Clear and Radiant Skin: Garden Botanika Corrective Clearing Face Mask Review

Garden Botanika is a skincare and cosmetics company that creates botanically based, cruelty-free and environmentally friendly products. I have recently come across their brand and was sold by the fact that their products are completely free of parabens, gluten, glycols, phthalates and artificial dyes.

Now let me tell you about the good stuff, my new HG acne solution:

Garden Botanika Corrective Clearing Face Mask ($18)

Restore harmony and maintain a clearer complexion.

This Clearing Face Mask, meant for oily and blemish prone skin, is supposed to purify, exfoliate and remove excess oil. This mask has anti-inflammatory ingredients that soothe and calm the skin. It also features astringent and antiseptic zinc, anti-bacterial sulfur, plus hydrating seaweed and soothing chamomile.

I have been using this on and off for about two weeks now. I put it on my face for about 15 minutes and wash it off with warm water and follow up with toner and moisturizer. I have noticed a dramatic decrease in acne and redness. The anti-inflammatory factor makes this mask perfect for emergency treatment the night before a big event. Rather than curing my acne and leaving my skin feeling dried and dead, this mask gives me a clear, smooth, bright and radiant look in the morning. It must be the purifying and exfoliating ingredients.

As much as I love the Clinique Clarifying Toner, it was much too drying and became less effective as my skin grew accustom to it. I have normal to dry skin and find that the Garden Botanika mask works well without being as drying. At $18 for 2 fl oz., the mask will last me at least six months. It is worth every penny and I highly recommend you check it out!

Garden Botanika has gotten my full attention. I think I will purchase a moisturizer from them next. Let me know if you have tried any of their products or if you can recommend something.

Disclosure: This post contains product(s) sent to me for testing or reviewing consideration. I am neither paid nor compensated for my opinion. My priority is always to my readers and I express only my honest opinion in every post.

GoJane Bird Print Ruched Sleeve Dress

GoJane.com Bird Print Ruched Sleeve Dress ($34)

Satin finish bird print dress designed with ruched sleeves, two side pockets and a removable tie-waist sash.

I was surprised when I realized this dress was from GoJane.com. I have not purchased anything from them in a long time and my last impression of them was that they sold clothes for tweens and little girls. The quality of this dress is quite good. The fabric is light and soft and the dress has a romantic and casual kind of look to it. This is something I would expect to find at Urban Outfitters for twice the price.

I have looked through their catalogs since receiving this dress and have seriously reconsidered this brand. Either I did not look closely in the past or they have seriously stepped it up these past years. I recommend browsing through their website if you haven't recently. You might be impress. I know I was.

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com created by WebBizIdeas.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

Eyes of the Day with Sigma Flare Eyeshadow Palette

This is after six hours of wear.

Eyes using Sigma Beauty Eyeshadow Palette in Flare.

I am a coward and used the less exciting colors in Flare. I'll step it up soon!

These eyeshadows are really well pigmented. I wore them for about 10 hours today and the colors didn't turn muddy like they tend to with drugstore eyeshadows. So far so good!

(I also picked up a Beauty Blender today, so look forward to a review on that.)

Interested in Sigma Beauty? Click here to get a Sigma coupon code for 10% off your Sigma purchase.

Disclaimer: This post contains product(s) sent to me for testing or reviewing consideration. I am neither paid nor compensated for my opinion. My priority is to my readers and I express only my honest opinion in every post.

Apothica Coupon, SkinCareRX Coupon Codes 2012

Apothica and SkincareRX Coupon Codes and Discounts December 2012

5GR8DD3 10% off all orders from Apothica, SkincareRX or Skinbotanica when you click through code use this Apothica coupon code. Coupon valid through December 2012.

GIVEAWAY CLOSED

Winner: Amy Rouse (Twitter @dropastich)

SkinCareRX has offered one reader of Handmade Reviews a chance to win a $25 gift certificate. This gift certificate can be spent on Vivite products, at SkinCareRX, Apothica or SkinBotanica.


Prize: $25 Gift Certificate to SkinCareRX
Ends: July 10, 2011 11:59PM EST
Entry: To enter this giveaway, fill out the form below with your name, email address and at least one of the entry methods below. (If you do all three, you'll get three entries, etc.):
+1 Write on SkinCareRX’s Facebook wall about what you think of Apothica
+1 Tweet about SkinCareRx on Twitter
+1 Write something on your blog or post a video about what you think of SkinCareRX

Disclaimer: This giveaway features a sponsored brand. I am neither paid nor compensated for my opinion. As always, my priority is to my readers and I express only my honest opinion in every post.

Blogging Tips: Google PageRank Update June 2011

Google has finally made its second Google PageRank update for the 2011 year. Handmade Reviews' Google PageRank has increased from 0 to 4 within the past week. As this website is only a year old, I am pretty happy with the increase. Check out your Google PageRank if you haven't recently. You might be surprised. :)

Google PageRank ranges from 0-10 with 10 being the best rank possible. The Google PageRank utilizes a complex algorithm that determines your rank based on the amount and type of inbound links to your website. To put it simply, the more good quality links your site receive, the better your ranking.

Quick Twitter Giveaway

GIVEAWAY CLOSED
The winner is @the_rainebeaux


Hey everyone, I have a quick Sigma giveaway for you today. This giveaway ends tomorrow at midnight. I will select one random tweeter to win a Sigma Make Me Up Kit (retail $99).

To enter, just tweet @handmadereviews your favorite foundation of all time. One entry per person and no need to follow me. I will message or DM the winner for her mailing address and choice of prize color.

I am also hosting a summer-long giveaway.

Disclaimer: This giveaway is sponsored by Sigma. I am neither paid nor compensated for hosting it. As always, my priority is to my readers and I express only my honest opinion in every post.

Sigma Eyeshadow Palettes in Dare, Bare and Flare Swatches and Photos

Click here to get a 2012 Sigma coupon code for 10% off your Sigma purchase.
This post contains swatches of the Sigma Eyeshadow Palettes. Click here to read the review.

The most anticipated eyeshadow palettes of the summer are finally here and Sigma has generously given Handmade Reviews a chance to try them before the release date on June 24th.

Dare:

Sigma Eyeshadow Palette in Dare

Princess Mimi Apple Green Circle Lens Pictures and Review

These GEO circle lenses come with a secure safety seal.

I soak the new circle lens in my own contact solution (Renu) for 6 hours before wearing. I recommend you do this, especially if your eyes are picky about contact solution.

I have always admired green eyes so I picked these Princess Mimi Apple Green lens (Tsubasa Bambi series)

My iris is a little big, so the black of my eyes really stick out. It seems to add to the monster effect.

Not that much enlargement, but a lovely tint of green.

These lens are less comfortable than my regular prescription ones, but are pretty wearable nonetheless. As a regular contact lens wearer, I can barely tell they are there after my eyes adjusted. Pinky Paradise sells these with prescription, which is great for someone like me who is blind as a bat. I probably would not buy these exact lens again, but would love the same green in a different style.

Disclaimer: This post contains product(s) sent to me for testing or reviewing consideration. I am neither paid nor compensated for my opinion. As always, my priority is to my readers and I express only my honest opinion in every post.

ToiletTree Fogless Shower Mirror Review

Fogless Shower Mirror $29.95

"Patent Pending water chamber design keeps mirror fogless. Guarenteed to be fogless for life. Requires no annoying fog free sprays ever! Easy mounting with removable silicone adhesive. No more unreliable suction cups! Built in squeegee to clean off mirror. Convenient shelf to place your razor, sponge or tweezers so they are always accessible."

So does it really work? Is it really a mirror that does not fog? Yes and no. It is fogless only if you pour hot water into the back of the mirror prior to using it. I think that they should have mentioned that detail somewhere in their advertisements. The fact that they fail to mentions something so important is very misleading. Nevertheless, this product does it's job and provides a convenient fogless mirror in the shower. It is easy to set up, the mirror is adjustable, and it comes with a nice shelf for storing razors and small bath items.

I currently use this in my shower and although not too useful for me, it is convenient to have. I recommend this mostly for men who shave in the shower or people who need to clearly see their face while showering. Otherwise, not many people will want to refill the back of the mirror with hot water every time they shower.

Disclaimer: This post contains product(s) sent to me for testing or reviewing consideration. I am neither paid nor compensated for my opinion. As always, my priority is to my readers and I express only my honest opinion in every post.

Lioele BB Cream Reviews and Swatches: Dollish Veil Vita, Beyond the Solution, Triple Solution, Water Drop, Have to Men

I received samples of Lioele Dollish Veil Vita, Beyond the Solution, Triple the Solution, Water Drop and Have to Men BB creams from LiliesShop.net for reviewing and swatching.

Pixics Giveaway

Pixics is an online retail store that sells accessories, apparels and gifts. They are currently hosting a giveaway that is ending on June 30th. If you are interested, it takes but a moment to enter. Pixics' products are cute and extremely affordable. They have many  shirts that are under $5. I have my eyes on the handmade tea infusers!

Pinky Paradise Circle Lens and Things

From Pinky Paradise: circle lens, lens case and hair velcro fringes

Princess Mimi Apple Green 15mm

Every lens purchase comes with a free animal lens case.

I will soon post pictures of me in these lenses. Although Pinky Paradise sells prescription lenses, they do not sell toric ones so I cannot wear them often. My vision and astigmatism are pretty bad, so circle lens are not a daily use item for me - but they are glamorous for taking quick snap shots!

Disclaimer: This post contains product(s) sent to me for testing or reviewing consideration. I am neither paid nor compensated for my opinion. As always, my priority is to my readers and I express only my honest opinion in every post.

BH Cosmetics 120 2nd Edition Palette Swatches

There are 120 eyeshadows in this BH Cosmetics palette so I won't be swatching all of them, just the first and second rows. This should give you a idea of the pigmentation and colors of the eyeshadows. You can click here to read my first impression/review of the palette.

First row of eyeshadows without flash.

Sigma Beauty Affiliate Tips

I have been a Sigma Beauty affiliate for only a short while, but the experience has been truly rewarding. I was sent a brush to try as soon as I signed up. (Free gifts are no longer sent to affiliates.) Sigma brushes are quality brushes that practically sell themselves. People buy brushes because Sigma has professional, affordable brushes and superb service.

Here are some tips I find useful in respectfully advertising for Sigma.

Share Sigma with everyone you know.
Tell your friends and family about Sigma. Show them the quality brushes. I share my affiliate link with everyone I know. I advertise to my coworkers about the free gift and any available discounts. I bring all of my Sigma brushes to beauty events and socials. When I email my club members or friends, I attach my affiliate link to my signature.

Share your code on the web.
Share your affiliate link on your blog, facebook, etc. If possible, share your banner in your RSS feed so your subscribers can see. Some forums allow you to have a few links in your signature. (Do this respectfully and never spam!) I like to attach my affiliate link to my email signature so people will know about the free gift, discount and premium brushes. Whenever people ask where to find professional makeup brushes, I offer Sigma as a choice. Join forums, chatrooms or wherever there are people.

Network outside the online beauty community.
Due to the popularity of Sigma with YouTube gurus and beauty bloggers, most people in these communities have heard of Sigma brushes. Talk to your coworkers, clients, or ask your family to help you reach out to people. You can easily share links offline by offering business card - or by obtaining emails so you can send your link through email.

Throw some makeover parties.
Any MaryKay or Avon representative can tell you that this is the most effective method of advertising a  beauty product. I use my Sigma brushes on all the girls I do makeup on. This really gets them interested. New members love seeing a beautiful set of professional makeup brushes, so I let them know about the low prices and discount.

Be considerate about your advertising to keep the trust.
More importantly, use your brushes often. You have to love what you sell. People will only buy from you if they trust you. Show them that you really like Sigma and that you genuinely know they will too. Don't be a walking billboard. Share your experience and then slip in the affiliate link.

Consider recruiting affiliates.
If you don't think you will always have the time to network and make your own sales, consider recruiting Sigma affiliates under your link. You will gain 1% for each of their sales. That isn't nearly as much as 10%, but you are also not doing the advertising or work. Consider this the passive way of earning money.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. We are proudly affiliated with Sigma.

Upcoming: Lilies Shop BB Cream Reviews

As promised, I will be reviewing a few more BB (Blemish Balm) creams in the coming weeks. I bought a Lioele Beyond the Solution BB Cream from Pretty and Cute a few weeks ago and really liked it, but have been reluctant to buy more before I got a chance to try other collections. After all, it was my very first BB cream.

A few days ago I came across Lilies Shop, a seller of Lioele cosmetics in addition to Korean contacts and fashion items. Their mini BB creams are sold cheaper than elsewhere, which is perfect for those like me who wants to explore different ranges.

Be sure to keep an eye out for my upcoming review of BB creams from Lilies Shop. I really liked the coverage of Beyond the Solution, but it felt a tad heavy for all day wear. I am excited to try the different collections.

JewelMint Tulum Bracelets and Windsor Set

JewelMint made up for last month with an impressive selection for June. I bought two sets this month. I love the fact that a lot of their jewelry are coming in sets now instead of the usual one-piece.

Two new sets for my growing JewelMint collection.

I like these Tulum bracelets more than I thought I would - though the quality is subpar.

The color on the colorful bead bracelet actually stained my skin. :(

The bracelet of the Windsor set looks like a fancy watch.

The earrings are actually lockets!

I am a sucker for nice packaging. Or maybe I am a hoarder.

Did you get anything from their June collection? (StyleMint is going to be up soon!)

Sigma Cleansing & Polishing Tool Review and Photos

Buying Sigma? See all the new Sigma Beauty Coupons and Special Offers before checking out!

Sigma Beauty Cleansing and Polishing Tool ($39 at sigmabeauty.com)

Pros:

• The Sigma Beauty Tool is much more affordable than its counterpart electronic cleansing and exfoliation devices.
• The Sigma Beauty Tool has two different rotation speeds so you do not have to use it in circular motion because it does the rotating for you.
• It comes with three exchangeable brush heads (with replacement heads on the way).
• It is water-resistant; can be used carefully in the shower.
• It removes makeup and cleans wonderfully. I usually use makeup remover, cleanse thoroughly with face wash, and finally use toner to remove the final bits. Now I use makeup remover and cleanse with the Sigma Cleansing and Polish Tool. By the time I get to toner, there is nothing left for the toner to remove.
• You can easily exfoliate or get into the crevice of the nose or any area. The exfoliation reduces dry patches and brightens the skin! My foundation applies a lot smoother after exfoliating with this tool.
• The gorgeous tool comes with a very cute case that makes it convenient for traveling.
• The detachable brushes are very easy to remove and clean.

Don't forget to get two AA batteries for it.

Cons:

• I wish the rotation came in three speeds, or at least one lower speed. I have sensitive skin so I like to use a very, very low speed for optimal control. I end up just using the low speed for a bit and then I go manual. High speed is too much for my face - but I am going to use it for my neck and body.
• I think the softest brush could still be a little softer for those of us with super sensitive skin. I know they can't cater to every single person, but it would be fantastic if Sigma came out with more brush options. I would definitely buy those! Maybe a super soft brush for baby-sensitive skin or even a super tough brush for those who want to use it to exfoliate rougher parts.
• Depending on your facial cleanser, a bit of splashing may occur when the tool is set on high speed.
• At $39, it is a lot cheaper than anything of its kind, but the Sigma Beauty Tool may still be considered expensive by those who cannot utilize all of the brush heads or rotation speeds. If Sigma had a cheaper set option (perhaps with the choice of just one brush head), they might be able to reach a larger audience.

The soft brush head.

Overall: If you want the Clarisonic or something similar, consider getting the Sigma Cleansing and Polishing Tool instead. It is much more affordable, has three exchangeable brush heads instead of one, and has two speeds of rotation. If you have very sensitive skin, a tight budget, and are only looking for a bit of cleansing, you might want to reconsider your options. At $39, this is not expensive for all of its capabilities. In fact, the Sigma Tool is fantastic if you are into the electronic rotation. However, if your skin gets easily irritated by scrubbing or if you prefer manual scrubbing, you can just use a normal exfoliating brush. The Sigma Tool is perfect for people without sensitive skin because they'll get to utilize all the functions. For my skin, I have to stick to the soft brush with minimal use of the low speed rotation. I can occasionally use the medium brush, but the rough brush and high speed are not really an option. Although I don't get to use all of the brushes or rotation speeds in the set, I have been using this tool every time I wash my face.

Comparison Note: Please understand that the optimum benefit of the Clarisonic, Pretika, Cleansing and Polishing Tool, and any similar device is to deep clean thoroughly and perhaps gently exfoliate. The cleaning and exfoliating processes are what makes your skin more vibrant, absorb moisture, fight acne, etc. Clarisonic claims it's Sonic technology does it best, but figure out for yourself what works for you. If you wash your face very well, exfoliate regularly with whatever product you like, and everything works, stick to your regimen! You don't need these tools unless you really want them or find that they improve or supplement your routine.

Get a Sigma coupon code for 10% off your Sigma purchase.

Disclaimer: This post contains product(s) sent to me for testing or reviewing consideration. I am neither paid nor compensated for my opinion. As always, my priority is to my readers and I express only my honest opinion in every post.

Related:
Sigma Cities Collection Review and Photos
Sigma Synthetic Essential Kit Review
Sigma Brushes Coupons and Sales
» View all Sigma Beauty Reviews
» View all Sigma Beauty Related Posts