Black Friday Bath & Body Works Kmart Haul

Good Morning Beauty Gems!!!

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving or Hanukkah celebration. As much as I said to myself "Wait another week before you start your holiday shopping" just couldn't help myself.  Yesterday, I ventured out into the holiday crowds to browse around for great deals.  I wasn't disappointed.  Here's how my shopping adventure went:

Different to prior years, I did a in-store/online Black Friday shopping combo.  The great thing is alot of retailers were (and still are) offering the same deals offered in stores.  For example, I walked into an Old Navy store and was there for 5 minutes.  As expected, the lines stretched through half the store (and this was at 8:30 at night).  Old Navy is offering 50% Off everything in the store. Earlier yesterday, I'd already been browsing the site and realized the same deals were online.  I just decided to shop online later and venture elsewhere.

Next, I went into Bath and Body Works (B&BW).  There store was ALOT less crowded.  I was able to work my way through without crashing into someone every 5 seconds.  It was actually really nice.  I knew about B&BW's big sale AND here's what I got:

• 3-Wick Candles 2 for $22 - The candles I purchased are not pictured but I included web links to everything. When I went into the store, the sales associates mentioned that if I purchased 3 of the 3-wick candles, they would only be $11 each (last night only).  I'm not sure if you go into the store today, if they'll honor that same price. However, it's definitely worth a try.  I picked up the following scents: Red Velvet Cupcake, Frosted Cranberry and Cinnamon Caramel Swirl.  Yes, I have a MAJOR sweet tooth.  As many of you may already know, B&BW candle scents are AMAZING. The 3-wick candles normally retail for $20 each.  Anytime you can take advantage of a major sale like this....you better stock up QUICK!!!!  

• Mini Candles 3 for $10 - FYI...The mini candles make a great stocking stuffer.  To get 3 for $10..that's just a deal you can't pass up. I didn't pick up any of these but highly suggest if you're in the market for gifts.

• Anti Bacterial Hand Soaps 5 for $15 or 6 for $20 -  I stocked up on these (through a separate online purchase) since it's been a while since I've purchased any.  Again, another great B&BW product to purchase at this STEAL of a price. They have a ton of great scents sure to please anyone in your life. 

Last but not least, my shopping spree ended with the best deal of all.  B&BW is offering a 2013 V.I.P. Bag (V.I.P.  in B&BW world stands for very impressive products, cute).  This bag normally retails for $104.00.  For the holiday shopping kick-off, B&BW is selling the bag for $20 (with a $40 purchase) while supplies last. WOW!!!!  Looks what's included:

Signature Collection

• Forever Red Eau de Parfum (.25 fl oz)
• Japanese Cherry Blossom Body Lotion (8 fl oz)
• Midnight Body Cream (8 oz)

Home Fragrance

• Champagne Toast Mini Candle

Aromatherapy

• Stress Relief Eucalyptus Spearmint Body Wash & Foam Bath (10 fl oz)

Anti-Bacterial 

• Anti-Bacterial Fresh Sparkling Snow Gentle Foaming Hand Soap

All these beauties come in this adorable bag.  Yes, these are the things that make it hard to say NOOO!!!

I also picked up 2 replacement Wallflower units.  They were regular price.  B&BW also has the Wallflower refills on sale 4 for $20 or 6 for $24. To really tempt you, the associate provided me with ANOTHER coupon ($10 off my next purchase of $30 or more; valid through December 24th).  I already had another coupon I brought with me (same one) from a previous purchase about 2 weeks ago. 

My grand total for all of these items (minus my separate online purchase of hand soaps) was only $55. Now you tell me...could I really say NO to that???? Girl pleasseee, this beauty gem was ALL OVER IT!!!!  

I also went to K-Mart and just went to pick up socks...(I do love my warm and cozies this time of year). They're also having a great sale.  Many of the Joe Boxer pajamas, robes and socks are buy 1 get 1 free. I just picked up a 3-pack of socks ($8 but got 6 pairs for $8 - these are the really THICK ones).  

As I was headed to checkout, I noticed their candles were also on sale.  The Essential Home 10 oz. candles were only sale for $2.49 each; the 2.5 oz. candles were $.99 each...OMG!!!  I've never tried this brand but just was curious; could they be a possible dupe for BB&W 3-Wick?s??? The answer is no, however they ARE a great alternative.  They offer a great variety of scents (just not as large as B&BW brand) and they smell/burn pretty good. However, downside...the candle cover to the glass jar is plastic??/Really!!!!  Ugghhh, not a fan of that at all.  However, for the price, I'll deal with it.  The scents I picked up (pictured below): Spiced Apple, Black Cherry, Relaxing Seas, Cinnamon, Creamy Vanilla, Maple Sunrise and Pumpkin.

Besides, every gem should have a little product variety in her life....same as high-end and drugstore make-up, bath and body products, etc...  The sale at K-Mart for all the products mentioned is going through today (I think, double check because the sale might end tomorrow).

That's all for me gems.  Be sure to venture out sometime today to check out these sales.  They really are too good to pass up.  If you're unable to get out, shop online.  As I mentioned before, alot of retailers are offering the same deals to online shoppers TOO!!!  I know because I did some online shopping yesterday too.  Sooo Soooo BAD!!!  But so good because of the amazing deals I got.  

Before you shop oniline, be sure you start first with Ebates.  I've mentioned them in a few blogs now. Ebates offers % cash back on purchases made with their business affiliate sites (they have a ton available).  It's free to register and none of your information is shared with retailers.

Enjoy the rest of your day and as always....HAPPY SHOPPING!!! 

Thanksgiving/Black Friday Kick-Off 411 - Ang's Tips on Injury/Stress Proof Shopping

Hello My Beautiful Gems -

It's been over a week since my last installment, I know I know....where have I been?? Just been really crazy with work and the regular day-to-day stuff.  The great news is that I'M BACK IN DA BUILDING and ready to get you gems geared up for the holiday shopping extravaganza!!!

For now,  just wanted to drop some quick tips for holiday shopping.  Now, I don't want you to think that I ONLY love things all beauty!!!  Truth be told, I'm a a borderline tech geek.  While I don't go out and buy the latest tablets, iPhones, etc. etc.  a new surround sound system with blueray player and smart tv combined does get a girl all warm inside.  Sooooo just want to make sure all my gems and their loved ones are smart and savvy shoppers this holiday season.

With that said, here are some quick tips....

1.  Browse the sale ads...If you have not been stalking the websites and sales ads for Black Friday sales yet...You Better Get On It!!! These are your ESSENTIALS to developing your shopping plan.  Yes, I said it.  You have to create a plan so you know what you need/want, where to find it and if they run out, what's your plan B.

2. Be ON TIME.....Now alot of stores are opening their doors to customers as early as 6PM Thanksgiving night.    PLAN AHEAD AND BE EARLY.  All my gems are special to me however retailers think you and millions of other people are just as special.  Therefore, you MUST consider the crowds that will be stomping, kicking, crawling with you are going for the same things you are.  So just ask yourself "If I really want to buy something that a particular store will have on sale, how do I get it?"  Just get to DDonuts or SBucks, load up on java and/or hot chocolate and sweets, park in the store lot(s) in advance to opening time (the earlier the better) and relax. 

3. Dress for the occasion....For a chica like me that wears heels 300 days out of the year, it takes some planning on my part for appropriate footwear each day.  With that said, as cute as you may be running around Target, Walmart, Sephora, etc. in stilettos, your feet may beg to differ.  Funny thing is, I always wear uncomfortable shoes to Sephora and/or Ulta when I'm on a shopping budget.  That way my foot pain guarantees I don't go over the spending limit :)  If you're in for the long haul, wear comfortable shoes.  For my die hard gems, just plan to pick up comfy sneaks while in shop mode.

4. Make a List.... We gems love to fill virtual shopping carts.  How much more work could it be to create a shopping list.  WARNING - Going to shop with NOOOOOO real idea of what you want can be extremely dangerous.  Trust and believe, there's a million and one gems that could probably co-sign with me on this. If you don't have a list(s), it could be deadly to your wallet.

5. Plan B, C, D PLEASE!!!....As hilarious as it may be to see someone upload a YouTube video of parents and other adults fighting for sale items, it's just a "REALLY/OMG" thing! Be honest, you are well aware that alot of items you've marked in red on your list will just be sold out in minutes.  Therefore, have a back-up plan in place.  Even better, divide your list into the following:

Must Have It (I Don't Give a Rats &** How I Get It)

Really Need/Want It (But will take an alternate)

It's Nice BUT...(If I don't have it, it's not the end of the world...REALLY I PROMISE)

Although you've heard this all before, it's true and will save you alot of time and hassle. 

Last but not least.....PLEASE REMEMBER THAT CYBER MONDAY IS ON THE HORIZON....AHHHHHH!!!  A ton more great deals are offered the Monday after Thanksgiving.  I'm also an online shopper for holiday gifts.  I love it, swear by it and will continue to do it year after year. 

If you decide to shop online, please check out Ebates.  This is a great site, mentioned in my previous Sephora VIB Haul blog, that offers cash back and purchases from affiliated stores.  They are absolutely AMAZING!!! I've used them for all but one of my online shopping sprees thus far.  There's no fee to join.  They also add new stores all the time. Just keep checking if your fav store is not listed.  If you love getting money back for shopping, start there!! Most purchases done by starting first through ebates offer cash back..Yes actual MULAAAA (anywhere from 1 - 10% on average).

That's all for me in this installment!!!  For all of my beautiful gems following me via twitter, just coming across my blog for the first time via search engine, professional and personal affiliations, etc., THANK YOU!!! I'm thankful to you all for reading my blogs, following me via social media and just providing me a platform to give you my 411.  I never thought I'd have my blog started this year. 

None of that would be possible without loyalty and support from followers and newbies just browsing my blog.  So again, thank you for hearing me out.  Much love to you all...always!!!  Have a wonderful holiday!!! I'll be in contact via twitter and blogging playing catch-up on my reviews. 

Also be sure to follow me on Pinterest!!!  As always...Happy Shopping!!!

Note: I am in no way affiliated nor being paid to endorse any vendors mentioned in any blogs I post or products views.  The opinions and statements made are my own.

Sephora VIB Haul (Part 2)

Hello Beauty Gems!!!!

My first min shopping splurge I noted in my Sephora VIB Event Mini Haul blog. That time I only featured a few items I purchased.  Please note that for any of the palettes shown below, there are no swatches included.  I did this purposely in order to provide you gems with a more detailed blog.  I'll be posting blogs on all palettes/sets I purchase separately so stay tuned!!!

So this shopping trip actual did qualify as a full-fledged haul.  It was bad but I picked up alot of things I've been wanting. My haul included the following:

Laura Mercier Artist's Palette for Eyes -Funny story about this one....tanother palette I was interested in getting.  This palette sold out within days of the VIB Event.  I called Sephora last Thursday and they were completely sold out online.  I had to call around to 2 stores (1 actually had the one palette available). I put this on hold, didn't make it to the store in time to pick up that day.  I wound up going into the store first thing the next morning to pick up the palette.  All that trouble for 1 palette.

 

However, the colors are absolutely beautiful.  I haven't used the palette yet (just finished trying out another kit for review).  This product is limited edition and will be discontinued.  So if you can, call around a few Sephora stores to check availability.  Detailed review of this palette coming soon!!!!

Kat Von D Spellbinding Eyeshadow Book -For almost 2 months now, I've been patiently waiting to purchase this.  Whenever I really want a pricey beauty product, I do all my homework first (confirming any upcoming sales, if the product is limited edition or not, etc. etc.).

The Sephora I went to had about 8 still available.  However, online this product is completely sold out.  I'll also be doing a detailed review on this palette very soon (along with some other Kat Von D products).  If you're a fan of this line, call around and see if this is available in the store. I haven't been disappointed yet by any KVD products I've purchased so far.

Kat Von D Shade Shifter in On The Road - One of my absolute favorite things are duo-chrome eyeshadows.  Eyeshadows that show as different colors from various angles really amaze me.  These types of shadows get my creative juices flowing for different looks. I've been wanting this particular color for months.  Can't wait to play around with it.

On the Road appears as a green-brown color. Considering the color payoff, I didn't think the price was too bad ($16).  There are 3 other colors you can choose from: Love Letter (purple), Stockholm (Blue), and Devotion (Copper).

Marchesa Parfum D'Extase Rollerball - The rollerballs are a great way to try-out a variety of fragrances before making the full investment.  I originally received Marchesa as a sample from a previous purchase.

I really liked the scent but just didn't want to make the $60- $115 investment to get it.  I love fragrances however, I do budget myself and try not to splurge on every single one.  I have my new Flora fragrance and a few others so I won't go through this too fast.


Flora By Gucci - I picked this up with the voucher included in the fragrance sampler. I purchased the fragrance sampler from Sephora in September.  Just finally got around to going into Sephora to pick this up. This was such a great deal. NOTE: If you're in the market for a new fragrance, stop by your nearest Sephora and check out the sampler collections. 

They sell these collections for both women and men.  Each includes a certain number of sample fragrances.  From those samples, you can use the voucher included to get one full-size (size specified on voucher) parfum or cologne. An excellent value for what you pay.

Soap & Glory Hand Food Hand Cream - OMG I found a new Holy Grail......AHHHHHHH!!!  I've heard and read about this product line throughout the year.  Oh My Word.....I wish I would've listened and picked up this wonderful item months ago.  A great hand cream that soothes, moisturizes and protects your hands from dryness.

 

The best things about this product: A little goes a long way (just a pea-size drop is all you need!!!); great product for a pretty reasonable price - $5 for the 1.7 oz.; $12 for the 4.2 oz tube of product) AND it has a wonderful and aromatic fragrance.....Yes, this is addicting, I promise you that!!! Every gem I know personally will be getting this as one of their stocking stuffers this year. Sorry about the sideway pic. For some reason I couldn't get the picture to rotate and save for me.


Soap & Glory Good, Butter, Best Kit - Again, more AMAZING products from Soap & Glory. For $15, you receive the following 3 body butter/creams (1.69 oz. size each): The Righteous Body Butter, Sugar Crush Body Buttercream and Butter Yourself Body Cream. So far, I've only dug into the Butter Yourself Body Cream.  Yes, I am OBSESSED already!!

This cream has a wonderful fragrance, keeps me moisturized throughout most of the day and just feels so AMAZING on the skin. I just have to do an in-depth review of this product line....I can't afford not too.  I want all you gems to know just how wonderful this product line truly is.  Stay tuned!!!


Buxom Dolly's Opening Act -  The holidays always bring about cheer and beautiful gift sets.  This is one of many.  Buxom has released some gift sets now available at Sephora. As I mentioned before, a great time of year to purchase these sets to try out those products you've been wanting for months.

I personally haven't tried any Buxom products but looking forward to it.  The following colors are included in this set: Emma, Michelle, Dani, Berry Blast and 2 of their best sellers: White Russian and Dolly.  Considering each lip cream/shine retails for about $19 each, this deal more than pays for itself (even considering the fact that they are all minis) - $29.  There's also a larger gift set ( with 15 minis) that retails for $59.  I already know I'll be back at Sephora picking up another.

Sephora Collection - Rouge Shine Lipstick in Heartbreaker (Color No. 47) - You know I've been on a dark lip kick since September....so why should it stop now!!!  I saw this little baby as I was strolling around the store.  I probably would've left it there and not even paid any attention to it IF:  I didn't do a swatch of the color AND if I didn't notice that there were only 3 left in stock.

Grant it, just seeing the 3 doesn't necessarily mean that the color was just that big of a seller.  However, I saw it and just fell in love. Can't wait to wear this color on a night out. A great sheer lip color that retails for $12.50.


Have you gems started your holiday shopping?  If so, let me know what you've picked up in the comments below.  Be sure to follow my blog AND yours truly on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook @AngBeauty411. Take care gems and until next time.....Happy Shopping!!!! 

November IPSY Bag

Hey Hey Hey Beauty Gems!!!!  It's that time of the month again (the good one that is); Ipsy time!!!  I received my November Ipsy bag a few days ago.

 

This month's theme is Glam It Up.  So as you'll see, most of the items in the bag were choosen specifically to provide that glam (pow) effect. 

So let's see what I got......

The first item I opened was the Bombshell Lip Crayon in Hot Damn.

This is a creamy, red lip crayon (bright red w/slight orange undertone).  A retractable crayon that you could use to give you that glam lip color to pair with a neutral eye/dramatic liner.


Next up is the BH Cosmetics Baked Eyeshadow (Galaxy Chic) in Aphrodite.

A beautiful mauvy plum color, perfect for the current season.  If you love this color, check out the full Galaxy Chic Eyeshadow Palette here BH Cosmetics Galaxy Chic Collection

Another lippie...yeahhhh...from the Michelle Phan EM collection is the Lip Gallery Creamy Color Classic Lipstick in Nude Lace.

 An excellent nude color with amazing pigmentation. Just simply amazing!!!

From Pixie is a Beauty Bronzer in Summertime.

Pixie brand products can be purchased at Target. I'm not crazy about the smell, however the bronzer looks good. The shade of this bronzer would work better on medium to lighter skin tones.  Other skintones may be able to use this as a highlighter.  I love that it's a matte finish (I'm really not a fan of shimmery bronzers).

Ok, only 2 more things to go.....

Next, included in this month's bag was a StarLooks Eye Pencil (gem pencil as it's referred to on the actual product) in Topaz.

I did a swatch on my hand and it's has great pigmentation.  The pencil glides on smoothly to the skin. This would be great when creating a glam look.

Last but not least, Nailtini Nail Lacquer in Caviar Cocktail. 

 A pretty silver color.  Just seems like lately every subscription box I get, there's ALWAYS nail polish.  Don't get me wrong, I love polish just not SO many all at once.

Well that's it's for this month's bag.  Overall, definitely one of my favs.  If you haven't already looked into it, I highly recommend that you check out an Ipsy beauty subscription...you won't be disappointed. For more information, go to http://www.ipsy.com

Enjoy the rest of your weekend Gems, until next time.....Happy Shopping!!!

Ulta Pick-Ups

Hola Beauty Gems!!!  I'm burning the midnight oil trying to catch up on blog posts.  I owe it to my gems to get you the latest and greatest 411 ASAP!!! Listed below are two things I picked up at Ulta yesterday. Yesterday was brutal!!!  I did a Sephora/Ulta run and that never works out well....for my pockets at least. As far as my makeup collection is concerned, it's like Christmas a month and 1/2 early. Anyway, here's what I picked up....

Lorac Rockin' Red Hot PRO Set - I had to pick this up...why you ask????

Because this particular set included the Lorac PRO Liquid Liner.  Haven't dived into this yet but tested out the brush on the hand swatch....OMG I'm impressed ALREADY!!!!  When washing the swatch off my hand, I had to do a little extra scrubbing.  Just easily removes with makeup remover.  So excited to give this a try.

Also included was the Behind The Scenes Eye Primer.  I received another sample of this before from my last Ulta haul. A Beauty Gem can never have enough eye primer in her life!!! For $39, a great deal a makeup-o-holic was not going to leave behind.


The last thing I brought was the Bare Minerals Double Domination mascara set. 

This special set includes a full-size Lash Domination mascara as well as a travel size. I've been hearing alot of chatter over the internet of how good this mascara is so I had to give it a try.  Considering you get both mascaras for $18.....another bargain I wasn't even thinking to leave in the store.  You must have thought I'd gone mad to do something like that.

That's all from my Ulta haul!!  Detailed review of both coming soon. Next up will be all the goodies from my Sephora VIB shopping.  OK gems...till next time....Happy Shopping!!!!

My Two Cents - Jesse's Girl Cosmetics

Hello Beauty Gems!!!  Finally...the work week is over.  Hope you all had a wonderful week. Today's 411 is on recent brand I came across not too long ago....Jesse's Girl. Jesse's Girl Cosmetics was released to the b beauty cosmetics market in 2005.  Since that time, this brand is now sold in over 3,000 retail stores across the United States.  Another brand that, so far, has proven to produce quality products at an affordable cost.

In my recent drugstore haul, I purchased some of the Jesse's Girl pure pigment eye dusts and mineralized baked powder eye shadows.  First, let's start with the pigment eye dusts.  As with most brands, the pigment can be used for the eyes and cheeks.  For this brand, they mostly advertise use of the this particular product for the eyes.  I purchased the pigment eye dusts in the following colors:

Sunlit Cactus (a golden-brown color w/green undertones)
Sunset Blvd (a rosey-gold)
Trouble Maker (a bright turquoise) 

The pigment eye dusts retail for $4.99 each. Below is a look I created from Sunlit Cactus. I put Sunlit cactus on the lid, along with other neutral colors (reddish brown and another dark brown) in the crease.  Sunlit Cactus is a standout color that applied well and did not crease throughout the day.  Granted, I always use primer under most shadows and ALL pigments I wear.  Pigments were not meant to stand alone.  To apply, I wet my Sonya Kashuk brush with my ELF setting spray (you can use any setting spray for this; just need something to have the eye dust adhere to).  Then I dipped my brush into the color (a very small amount was sufficient) and applied this to the lid.

This color blended well as I took my blending brush to merge the color in the crease. I was very impressed by the color payoff.  As well, I had little to no fall-out when applying.

The next look I created from Trouble Maker. I applied Trouble Maker to the lid and blended some of the color into my crease.  Then I added MAC Texture and Physicians Formula Shimmer Strips (Warm Nude Eyes) into the crease and brow. The picture shown doesn't display how well Trouble Maker blends in with the other colors (it truly does).

These can be applied lightly or heavier depending upon the color intensity you prefer.  The powder texture is very fine.  Very little product is needed as the colors have great pigmentation. I could also see using the color dusts easily over an eyeshadow base (which is what I used; MAC Painterly) or just with an eyeshadow primer.

I did create a 3rd look with Sunset Blvd. (not shown).  Sunset Blvd. is a beautiful color as well, worked well with the other colors I included with that look as well.

Lastly, I purchased the Mineralized Baked Powder Eye Shadow in Plum Frost.

This retails for $3.99.  You can also apply this shadow wet or dry. The following swatch is dry.  A great baked eye shadow in plum. Can be easily used for a day/night color during the fall/winter months.

Overall, I really like this brand.  The products I tried thus far have been great.  The pigment eye dusts have great pigmentation, long-lasting, and blend well with other colors on the eye.  The color payoff is a rich, satin finish. This is definitely a brand I'll be purchasing more from. A great deal that you just can't pass up.

If you're unable to find Jesse's Girl products in your local drugstore, you can place an order from their website Jesse's Girl Cosmetics (also link included above in the first paragraph).

That's all for me BGems!!!  Stay tuner over the weekend as I get caught up on posting my recent Sephora/Ulta Haul and detailed product reviews.  For a sneak peek of what I'll be dishing the 411 on...follow me on Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.....@AngBeauty411.

Have a wonderful night and as always.....Happy Shopping!!!!

November Birchbox

It's about that time Gems...Birchbox Time!!!

I received my November Birchbox today...YEAHHHH!!! I always get excited opening my box (even if I do cheat and look online). This month's box is dedicated to MORE GOOD - bringing more good to your life as well as others. The great thing about this campaign is that the Birchbox shop is donating a portion of it's proceeds to the No Kid Hungry organization.  I love this time of year for many reasons; primarily the shared thought of giving on to others with love.  Way to go Birchbox!!!!

Here's the 411 on the goodies I received:

Vasanti BirghtenUp! Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator -  This products claims to mimics effects of microdermabrasion for glowing, smooth complexion.  I'll be interested to see how this works out (especially in comparison to my PTR Gel). PSSSSTTT -  For the 411 on PTR Gel, check out this week's installment of Tuesday Skincare 101!!! Retail price for this product is $34.

Color Club Nail Polish in Baldwin Blues -  A very bold blue-green nail color.  Looking forward to seeing how this color looks and lasts on my nails. This polish retails for $8.

Benefit Hello Flawless Oxygen Wow!  - Many of you have probably seen or used this product before. This is Benefit's oil-free SPF 25 foundation.  I've never used any benefit foundation before.  Unfortunately, it won't be from this sample either.  It's a little too light for me. However, it has prompted me to snag a sample just to see how well this foundation holds up.  This foundation retails for $36.

Ayres Midnight Tango Body Butter - OK OK verdict is already in for me.  I am already in love!!!  Just think of Gold Bond's lotion....only softer.  It's lightweight, wonderful fragrance and leaves your skin sooooo soft.  The full-size product retails for $28 but I'm really considering purchasing this.  The real test will be just how long this product leaves me moisturized.  With such a small sample, I'll just have to pick a spot on my body. I'm thinking arms or hands.  For now, oh so loving it!!!

LifeStyle Extra

The extra in my kit was the Mighty Leaf Tea Pouches. In this month's box, they included 3 different pouches: Green Tea Tropical,  Vanilla Bean and Organic African Nectar. I'm not a big tea drinker but will be trying one of these out shortly.  I'll first start off with Vanilla Bean...smells soo good.  

The description reads "Handpicked blend of organic tea leaves, dried fruits and spices in a biodegradable pouch."  The full-size product retails for $9.95; not a bad price for organic tea.  We'll see just how good it is.  You know if it's something I love....I'll shout about it in my beauty 411. 

I'll keep you gems posted on anything that I fall head over heels for this month.  Till next time....Happy Shopping!!!!

11/12 Tuesday Skincare 101: Peter Thomas Roth (PTR) Products

It's Tuesday Beauty Gems!!!  Back for another installment of Ang's Tuesday Skincare 101.  This week, I thought I'd share 411 on some sample products I've been using.  About 3 weeks ago, I purchased the Peter Thomas Roth 20th Anniversary Kit from Sephora. Note: Sorry gems!!! I found out recently after purchasing this kit that it was no longer available through Sephora and would be permanently discontinued.  You may luck up and find this product in a Sephora store near you. Also, check out QVC's website.  I've included the link to some of the PTR products/sets they carry Peter Thomas Roth @ QVC .  A great value for trying out various products in the PTR line.

Anywho....whose Peter Thomas Roth you ask????

Peter Thomas Roth (PTR) is a well-known beauty entrepreneur in the beauty community. With lineage operating businesses through family owned spa resorts, Peter was destined to make his mark in the beauty world. In 1993, Peter Thomas Roth introduced his skincare line to the beauty market. PTR has been recognized by industry magazines and others as one of the most renowned product lines in the country. Note: PTR was recently named as one of the 2013 QVC Customer Choice Beauty Award Winners. In my search for new cleansers and other skincare products, I decided to give PTR a try.  So here's the 411 on the products included in this set:

Anti-Aging Cleansing Gel -  This gel is formulated to detoxify pores, improve skin texture and wipe away other impurities.  The main claim of this cleanser is to help diminish the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and other signs of aging. Some of the main active ingredients include: Salicylic and Glycolic acids, lime, citric, etc. Designed for all skin types except sensitive. This gel cleanser has a very light texture with a light, citrus smell. The cleanser creates a light lather on the skin.  The payoff is the brightness of your skin after each wash as well as firmness and decreased size of pores.  So far, I really am enjoying this cleanser.  The kit included a full-size 8.5 fl. oz. bottle (retails for $35; 3.3 fl. oz retails for $10).

Firm Peeling Gel - Let me just say I absolutely L-O-V-V-E-E this stuff!!!  From the first time I used it, I was sooo impressed by the results.  This gel is very lightweight but packs power by easily removing dead skin cells from the face. The best way to describe how is works...wet your face and use a Kleenex tissue to dry. This peeling gel gently removes dead skin with the use of your fingers and massaging the product into your skin. A small amount is all you need.  The full-size product has a hefty price tag ($48 for 3.5 fl. oz.).

Laser-Free Resurfacing Eye Serum - I've been using this product since I purchased it. Thus far, I've really liked it.  I specifically love that I can use this product under eye and on my eyelids.  As well, the formula is mild enough not to irritate my eyes (due to allergies, my eyes constantly water and have redness).  My goal was to get an eye cream/serum to decrease the appearance of dark circles and some fine lines. I'll post an update on my progress in another week or so... STAY TUNED!!! A high-end product with a $$$ price tag to match ($58 for 0.5 oz.)

The last 2 items included in the kit I haven't used yet:

Camu Camu Power C x 30 Vitamin C Brightening Serum - Lately, I've been noticing alot of articles and advertisements on the benefits of Vitamin C.  I've heard the benefits of Vitamin C can help with uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, etc.  Some suggest adding a drop of liquid Vitamin C into your daily moisturizer. Another option of course is to purchase products such as this serum.  PTR launched this Camu Camu line specifically formulated with Vitamin C (an anti-aging product to revitalize the skin).  I'll dive into this as soon as I get through some other products.  I haven't seen this serum available for purchase separately (outside of the Camu Camu Anti-Wrinkle Brightening Kit).

Max Sheer All Day Moisture Defense Lotion - This is a light-weight moisturizer with SPF 30. Specifically, I would use this primarily in the summer.  Another anti-aging product to protect the skin from the sun. This retails for $42 for 1.7 oz.

Although these products are higher end, don't be afraid to give them a try.  As I always say, samples, samples, samples.  As well, be on the lookout for sample sets such as this one. It's a great deal AND you're not 100% vested in something that you aren't necessarily in love with. Be sure to check out other PTR products through QVC and Sephora.

That's all for this week's skincare 101. Have any hit/miss PTR products you've tried??  Leave your 411 below.  Also, follow me on Twitter and Pinterest @AngBeauty411.  Have a good night......Happy Shopping!!!!

Sephora VIB Event Mini Haul

Hello Beauty Gems -

Just received my goodies from my first round haul from the Sephora VIB FNF Event.  This was a very small haul (probably can't even consider it as such).  However, the 2nd round was bad but not too too bad.

Here's what I got:

Stila Artist Essentials Kit -  I've been eyeing up this kit for a few weeks now.  This particular set is a new exclusive to Sephora.  The Artist Signature Set can be purchased at Sephora or the Stila website. The essentials kit includes:

16 - 0.14 oz.Eye Shadows (combined into the following 4 palettes):

• Pop Art Palette - Parity, Irony, Primary and Edgy

• Renaissance Palette - Poetry, Perspective, Fresco and Drama

• Abstract Palette - Illusion, Vivid, Visual and Linear

• Surreal Palette - Dream, Symbolic, Fantasy and Reality

All Over Blend Brush (#9)

Smudge Stuck Waterproof Eye Liner in Stingway

Convertible Color Dual Lip & Cheek Cream in Peony

Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick in Patina

LIT Lit Kit in Champagne Wishes (shown in the last picture below) This set comes with 0.14 oz Clearly Liquid Glitter Base, 0.14 Glitter Color in Champagne Wishes and brush applicator. This product would be primarily used on the lid alone, over an eyeshadow or as eye liner.

I cashed in some of my VIB points to get the Urban Decay Urban Essentials Kit.

The kit includes 0.50 fl. oz. B6 Vitamin-Infused Complexion Prep Spray, 0.50 fl. oz. All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray, 0.13 fl. oz. of Eyeshadow Primer Potion - Anti-Aging Long Lasting Eyeshadow Base and a  0.85 g of Eyeshadow in Mushroom.

The remaining items I received we're just samples I chose to include with my order: 0.05 fl. oz. Korres Face Primer, 0.01 fl oz. Agave Healing Oil Treatment and Issey Miyake L'Eau d'Issey Pour Homme Eau de Toilette Spray.

Full 411 reviews on both the Stila essentials and LIT kits coming soon. Part 2 of my Sephora shopping to be posted shortly.  Be sure to follow me on twitter @AngBeauty411 and Pinterest for the latest beauty 411.

Enjoy the rest of your day and as always....Happy Shopping Gems!!!

My Two Cents - Update November Mini Target Brush Haul

Good Afternoon Beauty Gems -

Hope you're having a fantabulous day!!!  How was your weekend??? Let me guess...wonderful but too short as always!  Look on the bright side...only 17 more days until Thanksgiving.  That's something to be thankful for already.  Anywho, just wanted to give a quick 411 update on the Sonia Kashuk brushes I purchased a week ago.   

Note: These are just my opinions based on my own personal experience using these products. I use this platform to share my feedback on products I use and to give readers more insight on different product options.

Here's my two cents:

Kashuk Tools Synthetic Crease Shadow Brush -  I really like this brush.  The synthetic fibers I love as they are easy to clean and great to work with.  Similar to my Bdellium blending brush, I'm able to easily blend colors into my crease.  The ergonomic handle makes it easy to apply product to the eyes (long enough to give you space to see where you're applying product; short enough to maintain accuracy with the looks you're creating). The handle is plastic with the dark green coating (Sonya Kashuk signature on the side of the brush). This brush retails for $10.79 online (the same or slightly higher in local Target stores; depending upon location)

Sonia Kashuk Tools No. 20 Large Doomed Eye Shadow Brush - Similar to the crease shadow brush, the fibers were very soft. Although, I don't think the brush fibers are synthetic.  I'm not 100% certain because I did not keep the brush that long.  The item description refers to this brush as being perfect for contouring.  However, this IS supposed to be an eye shadow brush, correct???? Just checking.  In my opinion, definitely not an eyeshadow brush.  I used the brush once and really disliked it.

First off, the brush is way too big to use on the eye.  Whether you have small or large eyes, it's size makes it impossible to use except for applying all-over color on the eye (which is what I did).  Other than that, the brush served no other use for me.

The worst part is that right after I used it, the brush began to shed. Note:  A little shedding here or there from any brush is not a deal breaker, sometimes that happens. However, most brushes rarely shed, if ever. When moving my fingertips across the brush, the bristles just seem to come off so easily.  A major red flag for me. This could have been one of those circumstances were I just received a bad brush.  Considering the fact that I wasn't thrilled with the size, it was a no-brainer for me...RETURN, RETURN, RETURN. This brush retails for $12.19 online (the same or slightly higher in local Target stores; depending upon location).



Final Thoughts - If you're looking to purchase a quality brush at a reasonable price, the crease shadow brush is a must!!  I'd also recommend this brush just to keep in rotation with your other tools.  It does an excellent job at blending. The soft fibers are gentle on the eye and the perfect size to create different looks.

As far as the large doomed shadow brush is concerned, definitely not for me.  I may have just brought a bad brush, the brush was just shedding way more than it should (at least for me to give the benefit of the doubt).  Also, the size of the brush was just WAY TOO BIG. I've seen other reviews and some feel this brush is more ideal for contouring.  From that perspective, I could agree that this might be a good option.  Overall, as an eyeshadow brush, this was a NOT A CHANCE for me.

My experience with Sonia Kashuk brushes have been pretty good overall.  Sonia Kashuk is a great option if you just aren't ready to make the leap to high-end brushes. Again, it's just one of those hit or miss deals.  The good news is that Target has a wonderful return policy....so you aren't stuck with keeping a brush that doesn't work for you.

Well that's it for my two cents.  Be sure to keep an eye out for holiday deals in the stores.  A great time to make large purchases for a discounted price. Also, be sure

Until next time....Happy Shopping!!!!