Wet n Wild Ultimate Brow Kit VS.The ELF Essential Eyebrow Collection

I have tried many shadows and slanted eyeliner brushes from an array of brands and had trouble making my brows completely and utterly stellar. I've used pencils and had worse luck with those. Either the colors did not match or my skills were less than ideal,  I completely gave up testing products for my brows. 

My brows were thin from over plucking and having them threaded. I would try to let them grow in but couldn't do it because it looked so awful. After some lengthy research I came upon a site with products for growing your eyebrows back. After reading the reviews I decided not to take part in that. The side effects were horrible. That lead me to search at home remedies for growing brows. I finally came across something I already had in cupboards: olive oil. Many people have claimed that olive oil grew their brows back so quickly and their brows became thick and full better than before so I could not help but try it for myself. 

Every night before bed I would use my fingertips to apply olive oil to brows then sleep the night away. After about a month to a month and a half, my brows were back. They did come back thicker and darker in some spots than before I ever started plucking them. Although those spots were full and darker, I still had some problems areas that looked so thin and bare. I believe I ruined the follicles there so there was nothing I could do. I began looking around cosmetics sites and YouTube-ing brow kits once again. I decided to give the ELF Essential Eyebrow Collection a try.

The ELF Essential Eyebrow Collection which includes a nice amount of brow items to achieve the "perfect" brows. I no longer have any of the items in this kit because I have either used it until there was none left or I simply threw parts away so here is a picture of the kit so you can see what is included. ( I hate posting pictures that are not my own, but I simply have to because all these items are literally gone)

This kit is retailing for a flat $5.00

Collection Includes:

• 4 Reusable Stencils
• Tweezers
• Eyebrow Brush
• Brow Setting Mascara
• Eyebrow Gel & Powder
• 
  

Directions:

Begin by using the tweezers to pull any unwanted stray hairs.

Choose the stencil that best fits your natural eyebrow shape.

The stencil should align closely to the beginning and end of your brow 

and much of your natural brow hair should be inside the stencil cutout.

Use the same stencil for both eyebrows; simply flip to fill in your other brow when ready.

Fill in the Stencil brow by blending the Brush with the Eyebrow Gel to help define and shape your arch for smooth precise lines.

Set the color in with the Eyebrow powder by brushing onto brow with the Brush for a natural finished look.

Lastly, apply the Eyebrow

I bought this kit with tons of other items, but this is what I was looking most forward to . Unfortunately this just wasn't for me. I can honestly say I gave this a try for about 3 months and finally let the thought of this working, go. 

Review of each item and the kit as a whole:

Stencils: These were so difficult to place perfectly on each brow without them being uneven. I know people say your brows should be sisters and not twins, but using these stencils did not even make them look like they were in the same family. Even looking back, it was silly to think stencils would work because when you are filling in your brows, you should stay as close to the shape that they already are for a natural look. If you want dramatic brows then I would believe these would help master that look, if you could get them to stay in place without one brow being higher/lower than the other.

Tweezers: These tweezers were good for assistance when applying false lashes, but not actually tweezing you're brows. They are slightly small and could not grip the hairs. Besides, I stopped plucking my brows once they all grew in because there were not any strays around.

Eyebrow Brush: This brush was labeled as a concealer brush and I found that quite odd because the description lists it as an eyebrow brush. I did YouTube the kit to see if other people's brushes were a concealer brush and they were. The brush is not angled obviously, since is a concealer brush, so i figured it would be harder to apply the powder and gel but it wasn't. The brush was easy to use and I like that it was a long and not a travel size, like the tweezers. I find it easier to apply the shadows with a longer brush because the colors don't seems to look so harsh as they would with a smaller sized brush. The brush was not a miss for me.

Brow Setting Mascara: This product really did what it was supposed to do: make you're brows stay in place. It did tame them and shape them. It also made the colors long lasting. I tried the powder and gel with and without this mascara and it does make a difference using this. It truly does last longer. All day almost!

Eyebrow Gel and Powder: The gel did shape and define my brows, as it is intended to do. It also went on with a slight hint of color and made the powder stick. I did not like that it made the powder look clumpy. It sure did stick, but in tons of small collections rather than smoothly and all over the brow.

The powder did not match my brows. The color was to light and made me look silly. There were no other colors to choose from although there is a drop down menu on the website, there is only one option which is disappointing because one color cannot be universal for everyone. 

Conclusion:

As whole I like that this kit is affordable for anyone a budget and easy to order. It can be found online or easily Target. Sadly, those are the only aspects I like about this kit.

I would rate this kit a 2/10 simply because there are too many reasons why it did not work for me. I would honestly not recommend this kit to anyone. Sorry ELF! I love plenty of other products you have available!

Now we are moving onto the Wet n Wild Ultimate Brow Kit

This kit retails anywhere from $1.99-$5.00 depending where it is purchased. 

(Click on the pictures to enlarge)

          

I purchased this kit at Five Below for $1.99. I purchased this with a few other items. You can view that mini haul HERE.

The Wet n Wild Ultimate Brow Kits come in two colors: in Ash Brown & Dark Brown. 

This kit comes with:  

Clear Gel

Tweezers

Brow Brush

Slide Out Mirror

2 powder colors, one dark and light

           

The Clear Gel: I do not use the gel and haven't tried yet. I just don't like gels anymore so If you like gels I am sorry I cannot inform if this is great or not.

Tweezers: Lacking quality as the ELF tweezers do, but they are great for applying false lashes.

Brow Brush: This is a very stiff brush and very small. It fits in my palm but it is not easy to use for applying the shadows. I was not expecting much with the brush because typically smaller brushes do not work for me. I like applying the shadows with a longer medium-full size brush because it easier to create light wispy strokes.

Slid Out Mirror: This mirror is actually useful especially if you are in a car or wanting to do a touch up when you are out and about.

Powders: The lighter color seems to work perfect for me! It stays on without the gel, and is not too light. It blends evenly and perfectly, matching my brow color. It is long lasting, and does wipe off easily. The darker color is a bit harsh but with some blending with the light color it can make my brows look amazing specifically on the tails of my brows where more definition and color is needed, as those are more sparse areas of my brows. These powders alone or together do not leave a reddish tone as the ELF kit did for me so that is another major plus.

Before & After when using this Brow Kit:

In this pic (before) you can see the gaps where the hair is sparse, 

which is why I need to use a brow kit.

In the after pic, you can see how the gaps are filled in and seem to match my natural 

brows.As you can see, I do not have a dramatic look. I just want a natural looking brow 

that doesn't draw too much attention, but frames my face well.

Conclusion:

I like that this kit is affordable and easily found at local drugstores. It is also lightweight and portable. The mirror is useful also. I do not like the cheap tweezers or brush, but that is not anything to really complain about because this kit is so ridiculously cheap I didn't expect wonders from those two items to begin with.

All in all, this kit is perfect for me. It is now my holy grail for eyebrow kits. I have never seen or heard of this kit until purchasing it at Five Below, but after some Googling, it seems to be a universal product for pretty much everyone!

I rate this product a 9/10, 1 point loss for the tweezers and brush. Even thought I'm not totally upset about those items, I'm rating this kit as a whole. Those items might mean something to someone else and for the quality being low, the products did lose one point for that. 

I would suggest this kit to anyone who is looking for their perfect brow kit, or looking for a more affordable alternative.

I apologize for the lengthy review. I just wanted to give background on my hunt for the perfect kit, and why it was so important for me. I am so thrilled to have finally found one that is absolutely perfect for me. Wet n Wild has won me over!

Thanks for reading! 

Be sure to let me know what you think of these kits. What products do you use for your brows?

Influenster Summer Beauty VoxBox (Pre-Selected)

Check out this email from the Influenster Team about the upcoming Summer Beauty Voxbox!

About an hour ago I received this oh so lovely email from the Influenster Team about the Summer Beauty VoxBox. This is a great news because I am just thrilled with everything that Influenster does for us ladies, and soon enough for the guys. I knew this was coming because the last email I received from them about  the Gillette and Olay team loving my blog and statement about their razor, hinted about a June/July VoxBox. You can view that HERE

I immediately filled out the survey and it asked questions about feminine hygiene products and brands I use as well as sun care products and brands I use. Those will be great items to test and review because they are products I know that will be useful.

This is always a great thing to see when you log into your Influenster account!

June is almost over, so this is a great surprise to have coming so quickly. Let's just hope when they make their final decisions, that I can be one of the considerations for the program! Finger crossed ladies!! <3

What do you think about the Summer Beauty VoxBox? Did you get you're email yet??

June 2012 MyGlam Bag

The June MyGlam is already one of my favorites from the bags I received.  I am thrilled with contents and the sample sizes. Two products were full sized which is what MyGlam has been lacking lately. I am enjoying each product including the bag itself. The bag is perfect for a night out at the bar which fits the theme perfectly in my opinion. The bag is very glittery and does shed but I am going to research some way to prevent that such as a waterproof spray or something similar. All the products are great for summer and classic looks so that is another positive note about this months bag. 

I've been subbed from February to June and this is the second bag I feel that was actually worth it, the first one being April's. You're now probably thinking if that's how you feel why are still subscribed? Well I will have a post for that later because after I got my bag I did cancel my subscription. So on with this review:

June's Theme is "Out All Night"

Swatches of every Product in the bag:

Philosophy Take a Deep Breath Oil-Free Energizing Oxygen Gel Cream Moisturizer:  

(swatch is the second from the top)

I am totally loving this moisturizer. I have never tried a gel cream moisturizer and I was a bit skeptical, but this is working out great for me. It is so light weight and perfect for summer because of that. I have combo-oily skin and this just seems to be perfect because it moisturizes the spots needed and lays off the spots not needed, evening out my skin. 

I requested a sample of this via Philosophy's Facebook and I am receiving same size as the one I received here: .4 l oz. The full size is 2 oz retailing for $34 which is a bit out of my price range but with some saving, it can be purchased. My sample has already lasted 2 weeks, so the plus side is that the full size will last a long time. 

Insert /Card with a brief description of this gel and a special offer for free shipping with no minimum amount using promo code: fresh5 or myglamjune (offer valid thru 7/15/12)

NYX Round Lipstick in Georgia:

(third swatch)

I am not much of a lipstick wearing type of gal  (except for nude colors) but I like this for a nice classic simple look. It is a bit frosty in color but its such a pretty pink to not wear. I have worn this out a few times and I really enjoy the color on myself especially for my tan skin because it just *pops*. It does last long, and is super smooth when applying. I really like this and am intrigued to try more colors, specifically a nude color. This is a full size lipstick and it retails for $4.00.

Save 25% on all Round Lipsticks at NYXCosmetics.com using myglamkiss at checkout. (Offer valid thru 7/6/12)

Living Proof Frizz Nourishing Styling Cream:

(first swatch)

 This smells absolutely divine. I have tried this a few times and it came just in time for the humid weather we've been having. This product does last all day long leaving its wonderful smell on my hair. So there are no complaints here. I hate frizz and usually use John Frieda Frizz Ease Spray because it is so affordable and available at Walmart, CVS, etc. I probably will not purchase this because the only pro over the John Frieda Spray is that is smells so amazing. The sample I received is 2 fl oz. The full sizes are: 2 fl oz for $15, 4 fl oz for $26, 8 fl oz for $36

Insert/Card with an exclusive trail kit at $35 instead of $45, free shipping, and a free sample at checkout only at www.livingproof.com/myglam (offer valid thru 7/7/12)

Marbella Permanent Eyeliner Pen:

(last swatch)

Okay right off the bat, I noticed this said "Don't use with lenses." with no other explanation. I was hesitant since I wear contacts and rarely wear my glasses. I want to know the harm this can cause and have looked all over the web and can't seem to find an answer, so I risked it an wore it anyhow.

I *love* this eyeliner. I wear liquid eyeliner every day and this is now my holy grail liquid liner. It is pigmented perfectly for me, which is ironic since so many ladies said theirs was not. They even has swatches with proof. They really had to layer on the color. That is one con because you never know If you're going to get a a normal one if you purchase this again. The pros for this are that it really last all day and all night. I sometimes forget to take my makeup off at night and with this, it was almost in tact the next morning. Also, it didn;t take harsh c=scrubbing to remove. My Nuetrogena Makeup Remover worked just fine. Another pro is that it is super easy to use. I sometime struggle with cat eyes but this make is so much simple. I will be purchasing another when needed. (I'm not a hoarder and do not need another one at the moment, so yes when needed)

Receive 50% off any purchase at http://www.diosacosmetics.com with code myglam at checkout (offer vaild thru 7/8/12)

Conclusion/Cancellation:

So that was the amazing June 2012 Myglam. I truly loved each product and am planning to buy a few full products when these run out. This bag is worth well over $30 and two full sized products were included. Although this was great month I did unsubscribe because there has not been any consistency of product sizes or products that were of quality each month. I like that I can be introduced to new brands/products but some months the products were almost knock off or from some company that is living under a rock and just decided to peak up for the MyGlam Bag. I will have a post later on my reasons for cancelling.

What did you think of this month's bag? Am I crazy for cancelling?

Thanks for reading :-)

How To Earn Sircle Coins on Sircle Samples

This is yet again another post on Sircle Samples. I know I've been posting a lot about them lately but they have a lot going on and it's all free! If you missed my original post about what Sircle Samples is and how it works click HERE for that.

So as you know Sircle Samples is still in Beta so if you're patient good things will come. I've been racking up a lot of Sircle Coins lately because of of my lovely blog/twitter friends and readers! Thank you so much!! This post is dedicated on how to earn Sircle Coins. Just yesterday I ordered my first Sircle Samples, so I wanted to share with everyone how to maximize your coin earnings So here we go:

I just noticed this chart on the Sircle Samples site when I was logged in ordering my Samples. This chart explains every way possible to earn Sircle Coins:

So as you can see you earn 500 coins when you register and 50 for uploading a picture. After this you want to complete your beauty profile to earn your 1,000 coins. This can only be earned once. I think this is fair because people would abuse the privilege and that would ruin for those who do not.

Referring friends earns you 100 Sircle Coins per invite. This is absolutely fabulous because I have had 22 people join using my link which accumulated 2,200 coins! Thank you again ladies! You can also send invites  to a friends email adress. Referrals seem to be the best way to earning coins because the program speaks for itself. Who wouldn't join? 

Your personal referral link can be accessed once you're in the "Friends" tab. I suggest you post this EVERYWHERE & ANYWHERE. Sure it can be quite spammy but just explain to people how awesome Sircle Samples is. I've only shared Sircle Samples on my blog then shared the blog post link on twitter for my lovelies to read and you can see how that paid off.

Another way to earn coins in through the daily surveys. The surveys take about 3 minutes so why not earn those coins?! At the end of the month you could potentially have anywhere from 280-300 which can earn at least one Sircle Sample.

Writing a product review for the items you sampled will earn you 100 coins. You can review any product under the sun, but it will not earn you any Sircle Coins. Once you have ordered a sample, you will see a prompt to Review your sample under the "MakeUp Bag" Tab,

Adding items to your Makeup Bag and Wishlist will earn 10 Sircle Coins, but only up to 10 times a month. That is an easy 200 coins combined at the end of the month. 

Sharing Product Reviews on on your Twitter and Facebook accounts will earn 10 coins for each site (10 Coins for Twitter and 10 for FB) as well as sharing Product Purchases on your each account. *HINT* - Under the "Account" Tab you will have a box on the left hand side titled "Privacy Settings." In the box you can check the Facebook and Twitter Boxes to automatically post reviews to those sites.

Rating a product peview will also earn you 10 Sircle Coins and is limited at 10 x a month. Here is another 100 Sircle Coins per month.

Lastly, earning badges earns you 50 coins. I am not sure how to earn badges because I have not seen anything when logged into Sircle Samples on how to earn these badges. I did however notice in my points history that I earned two badges but there is no explanation as to what badge I earned or how exactly to earn it. 

Now that you have the skinny on how to earn Sircle Coins you should be ready to do all this when you're invite comes. I really hopes this helps and explains fully so you don;t miss out on those coins.

Like I said I ordered my first samples yesterday. These are the items I ordered:

I decided to try each sample because they were all that was offered and I figured why not? The Sircle Swag Limited Edition Makeup Bag is a bit costly, but seems worth it. I was on YouTube and a fellow member ordered this, and I must say it is awesome! I'm so stoked and anxious to receive these. Be on the look out for my future posts on my first Sircle Samples.

Also, before I go, I must tell you since Sircle Samples is still in beta and they really want your feedback so don't hesitate to shoot them an email or two.

If you're wondering when you'll receive your invite, no worries, it will be coming. They only have a certain amount of openings each month so its is a bit slow. You can read more on that HERE.

If you still need an invite feel free use my link as it will earn my coins. Please and Thank you! 

CLICK HERE FOR YOUR INVITE

Thank you for reading!

xoxo, mattabellax3

All About Vocalpoint

I am sharing with you today an online community solely for women to interact with each other and feel part of something bigger-Vocalpoint. 

Vocalpoint is a place to go to if you're wanting to learn about new products, daily tips on just about everything from cleaning to raising children. At Vocal Point one can take surveys and polls, interact with other members on the community message boards, read from any of the plethora of articles shared, take part in the latest "Try and Tells" (samplings) and most importantly make a difference in your own life and other members as well.

I have been with Vocalpoint since May 2009. In all my time with Vocalpoint I've had the opportunity to try many new products whether it be from samples sent to my door or coupons to purchase the products. I have learned tips and tricks on saving money, sticking to your budget, at home cleaning tips, and I've found many recipes that I've actually tried. 

Vocalpoint also cares about your feedback and opinions on various topics. You will find countless opportunities to share those insights. 

I have shared this online community with so many relatives and friends and they have found it so useful, so I figured my readers would enjoy Vocalpoint as well.

I have noticed that Vocalpoint has stated they are a community of moms who take part in the many activities I mentioned above. I am letting you know that I am not a mom and when I joined in 2009 I don't remember it being exclusively for moms. So with that being said I'm pretty sure it is okay to join regardless. 

I also want to share with you a few of my recent samplings and coupons sent to my door, so that you can see how legit Vocalpoint is:

1sample packet of Tide Pods.

I was very excited for this sample because everyone online has been talking this product up. I did try this and once I'm able to snag some coupons I will be purchasing. I love Tide, but their prices aren't always budget friendly.

Crest Coupons

This booklet contained $7 worth of coupons for the Crest Pro-Health line.

I was able to use 1 coupon before they expired. I am terrible at organizing my coupons so I let the rest slip :(

Always Tampax Samples and Small Pouch + Coupons.

This box came with 2 samples of Tampax Radiant tampons, an Always Radiant panty liner, and 1 Always Radiant Infinity Pad, and two coupons for the Infintiy pads and tampons.

This is obviously my favorite sample in the last 3 month simply because the bag! I never have enough of these bag and this adds to my collection. I use them for hair ties, hygiene products on the go, make up on the go, pencil pouches for school, and the list goes on...

1 Coupon for a Free Gillette Fusion ProGlide Clear Shave Gel with the Purchase of a Gillete Fusion ProGlide Styler

My boyfriend already spotted this at walmart so we are planning to use this coupon ASAP.

Two coupons for Bounty Paper Towels

These just came in the mail yesterday. I use paper towels almost every day when cleaning so these coupons will come in use.

Now that you've seen what Vocalpoint is all about I'm sure you will be signing up! What do you think of these samples/coupons?

If you're interested in registering for Vocalpoint just head on over http://www.vocalpoint.com

Keep up with Vocalpoint on Facebook and Twitter!

Thanks for reading!

Sircle Samples Beta Update

Last night I received an email from Sircle Samples about their Beta status. I decided to share this because since my original Sircle Sample Post, many people have asked me about invitations and how long it can take to be accepted onto the site. This email has cleared up a lot of lingering questions not only about invitations, but for browser support and reviews as well. 

Be sure to keep updated on Sircle Samples via their Twitter and Facebook. 

If you still need invite don't hesitate to click HERE for it.

Thanks for reading!

Summer Target Beauty Bag

This Past week I was lucky enough to receive my June Birchbox, MyGlam Bag, and my first Target Beauty Bag.

If you're wondering how to get hands on one of these, it's simple. Target will advertise this *freebie* on their Facebook/Twitter. You will be directed to "Like" their page on FB and then the sign up form will appear. You want to sign up quickly because supplies are limited. The site is very slow but if you're patient it will totally pay off and within a few weeks you will receive your Target Beauty Bag. It seem that Target offers their beauty Bag each season.

This is everything included in the Target Summer beauty Bag:

1 small cosmetics bag:
This bag is adorable and will be getting used. I am going back to school in two weeks so this will be designated for my touch up makeup item on the go. The quality of the bag is outstanding and more sturdy than any MyGlam I've ever received. This was free so I think MyGlam really needs to step it up. 

Garnier Fructis Color Shield Fortifying Shampoo and Conditioner For Color Treated Hair:
I don't have color treated hair. I have what some call Virgin Hair (never dyed or permed etc.) so this will be given to my sister or mother because they have color treated hair. They all got bags too so this will be a supplement :)

A sample of Revlon Colorburst Lip Butter in Peach Parfait:

 The second picture shows the color as a darker red but its actually the color of the swatch. The camera would not settle for this one so sorry! Revlon's Colorburst Lip Butter is on my shopping list! I want to try the Creme Brulee. I've seen many swatches on various blogs.

Travel size TRESemme Split Remedy Split End Shampoo and Conditioner. (1 fl Oz)

I'm currently using this set already so this is a plus to receive. TRESemme is a great quality brand to purchase! I do not high end hair care products. Ever since I got 3-4 inches trimmed from hair I've been using this. It's exactly what I needed giving my hair strength and softness.

A travel size of Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock SPF 70 (1 fl Oz or 29ml)

I'm terrible and rarely use sunscreen on my face unless it is in the moisturizer I use. There is a sunscreen in my PUR Mineral 4-in-1 Tinted Moisturizer but I don't wear that every day. This will totally be coming in handy and this is truly a deluxe size sample.

A travel size Aveeno Active Naturals Smart Essentials Daily Detoxifying Scrub (1 Oz)
I've been eyeing this up at recent trips to Walmart  and noticed it is just $6 and I think the tube was 5 oz. which is rather small for the body wash and price I'm used to. I use Soft Soap because they have great scents, exfoliating beads, and is budget Friendly. Happy to see if I like it. If so, maybe with the coupon in the booklet?

A coupon booklet that includes $15 worth of savings

Unfortunately there is no Target in my town and these coupons are always Target only. The nearest target a little over an hour so I go there maybe once every 3 months. Luckily I called Walmart and they accept competitors coupons! Sorry Target :(

The coupons included are: 

• $1 off Aveeno skincare items (excludes bars, baby care and trial/travel size)
• $1 off with purchase of two Garnier Fructis hair care items (excludes trial/travel size)
• $1 off Neutrogena sun care item (excludes trial/travel size)
• $2 off with purchase of two CoverGirl cosmetics items
• $1 off Jergens moisturizer: 8-oz. Crema or 16.8- or 26.5-oz Shea Butter or 21-oz Soothing Aloe
• $1 off L'Oreal Colour Riche lip or nail cosmetics item
• $2 off Nivea Body skincare item (Skin Firming moisturizer Q10 Plus or Sun Kissed Beautiful  Legs moisturizer or Sun Kissed Radiant Skin Lotion or Good bye Cellulite gel cream or Good bye Cellulite serum) 
• $2 off Olay facial skin care item (Cleanser or Moisturizer or Treatment)
• $1 off with purchase of two hair care items (Head &Shoulders/Herbal Essences/Pantene/Aussie) (Excludes travel/trial size)
• $2 off Pixi designer cosmetics item
• $3 off Revlon cosmetic item
• $1 off Rimmel London Bronzer Powder
• $1 off TRESemmé hair care item (excludes trial/travel size)

So that is the Target Summer Beauty Bag. Be on the lookout for the next one by following Target on Facebook and Twitter!

Thanks for reading!