Life has been crazy busy with the end of my school semester, various work obligations, the holidays and of course, my personal life.Because I have fallen behind on sharing the progress of my lip challenges, I have decided to combine the last week of my November Lip Challenge with the first week of my December Mini Lip Challenge (I participated in #7lippies7days on instagram).Get ready for a serious lip diary!
Monday, November 23, 2015
I woke up this morning and knew I needed to wear something bright.I remembered picking up Mac Pickled Plum recently and decided to put it on.I always think that’s a silly name for this color.Colors with “plum” in the name should be purple shades, not pink.I also tried out my new T3 Single Pass Flat Iron, thoughts?
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Last year, I was discussing my love of red lipstick with a friend of mine.She told me her holy grail is Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil, Dragon Girl (she also told me that this is the red Taylor Swift swears by).The combination of red lipstick and Taylor Swift was too much for me to avoid.Later that day, I went to Sephora and picked it up.For some reason this color has never looked the same on me twice, and often looks extremely pink.Luckily I love it either way.FYI, this is by far the reddest this color has ever looked on me.
Saturday, November 28, 2015
I haven’t left my house in days, but needed to run some errands. I wasn’t interested in putting on any makeup, but at the last minute decided to apply some lipstick.I was really excited to receive some Nars Velvet Matte lip pencils from Sephora for my birthday, but always forget about them.I decided today was the perfect day to put on Cruella!
Monday, November 30, 2015
i can’t believe today is the last day of November.I have decided to participate in an additional lip challenge this week, the #7lippies7days ,so I am double counting this picture.The first prompt for the 7 Lippies challenge is “nude”.I actually don’t have any nudes, and this is the closest I get: Nars Rikugien Satin Lip Pencil.Rikugien was the second part of the Sephora birthday gift and I actually like it much more than I thought I would!
Tuesday, December 1, 2015
Today’s #7lippies7days prompt was “orange”.While I love the color orange, I do not love wearing orange makeup.After scouring my lip drawer I came across “Barbecue” from Mac’s Toledo collection and thought it was the perfect choice.I don’t know why this collection wasn’t more popular, I love a lot of the colors.
Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Today’s prompt, “pink”, was a no brainer for me.I have been looking for an excuse to pull out Mac’s Girl About Town lipstick and lipglass.I have a serious soft spot for bright pinks, and although it may not be the most seasonably appropriate color, it is truly one of my favorites.
Thursday, December 3, 2015
I love berry lips so I was thrilled with today’s “berry/purple” prompt.I went back and forth between a few colors before landing on Too Faced Melted Berry.This was one of my first liquid lipsticks and I think the color is gorgeous.I had a bit of a feathering issue today, which had never happened before, but I still love how it looked!
Friday, December 4, 2015
As you can imagine, I couldn’t wait for today’s prompt: “red”.Obviously, red lipsticks are my true love and I had a tough choice on my hands.Luckily, I had just received a new one the day before, and I couldn’t wait to try it out: Mary Kay’s True Dimensions Lipstick in Firecracker.This is the first time I have worn any Mary Kay lipsticks.I loved the color, it was a great shade and not one I have.The finish is pretty shiny, which I like, but because of it’s soft texture, it does spread a little bit.The best part about this lipstick is just how moisturizing it is.I love lipsticks that also make my lips feel great.
Saturday, December 5, 2015
I had been thinking about this prompt all week “gloss”.I really don’t like to wear glosses on their own, plus I knew I had some holiday infused festivities planned for today, so I didn’t know what to wear.In the end I decided to layer Mac Tenor Voice lipstick and lipglass.I know I say this alot, but this really is one of my favorite colors.Anytime I want a real standout lip, this is what I go with.Additionally, it is a perfect holiday red!I sort of broke the rules, but oh well, I’m a rebel.
This completes the November Lip Challenge and transitions me into my December Mini Lip Challenge where I will wear different shades each day for the first few weeks of the month!Follow my challenge on my Instagram page @Jessicasgoneviral.
I am a total sucker for holiday lists. As soon as they start popping up all over my social media accounts, I excitedly click through them discovering items that I never knew I couldn’t live without. This year I am creating my own list for all of the beauty loving, techie, fashionistas in your life! These are my very favorite products that make me happy and make me, “me!” I am starting off with my favorite beauty and skincare products, stay tuned for part two!
For the makeup enthusiast in your life
I haven’t been wearing makeup that long (roughly a year and a half), but in that time I have researched, tested and reviewed countless brushes, palettes and products. Below are a list of my very favorite products that any makeup lover would love to add to their collection.
Urban Decay Good Karma Optical Blurring Brush. I am absolutely obsessed with this brush. If I could take only one face brush to a deserted island I would quickly pack this one away. It smooths out my cc creams and foundations with such ease and smoothness. I haven’t found another brush that remotely rivals this one!
French Kisses Melted — $25 Anyone who knows me, knows how much I love Too Faced Melted Lipsticks. The colors! The shine! The length of wear! I love them. Too Faced has released this set 4 of minis which is the perfect way to try them out.
Butter London RSVP Set — $29. Nail polish is my first love, and Butter London has always been one of my favorite brands. This spring they released a new 10x Shine formula and it is fantastic. Polish stays shockingly shiny (and stays put) for days and days. This set includes minis of 4 classic shades.
Urban Decay Naked Palettes — $29 – $54. I love the UD Naked collection. I have every full size palette, basic palette, even Naked on The Run. My personal favorite is Naked 2, but everyone has a strong affinity to a specific palette based on their skin tones and preferences. If you aren’t sure which one to grab, go for the original. It’s a classic!
Sigma Basic Eyes Kit — $77. I know many people rave about Mac brushes, but personally, I prefer Sigma. I have slowly acquired most of their eye brushes, and this set includes all of my faves. This set includes 7 brushes that will help you achieve all of your favorite eye looks!
Benjabelle Daisy Brush Tree — $19.99. This is one of those items that you don’t know you need until you have one, and can’t believe you lived so long without it! Cleaning your brushes is one of the downfalls of loving makeup so much and it is important to dry your brushes upside down so that you can make them last. This stand fits brushes of various shapes and sizes and removes wasting time trying to find ways to keep your brushes upside down!
For the hair/skincare enthusiast
Clarisonic — $99+. When people ask me about improving the skin, the first thing I ask is if they have a Clarisonic brush. For me, it was the most essential part of my skincare routine. Not only does it get my face incredibly clean, it also exfoliates! There are always promotions for these brushes during the holidays, so snatch one up!
Aztec Clay Mask — $9. This is a little set that I have started putting together for gifts. It is no secret that I love face masks, but my absolute favorite is the Aztec clay mask. I mix a little with some Braggs apple cider vinegar and wait for the pulsating to begin. When I take it off, my skin is the softer than it has ever been. For the holidays I would purchase the duo and put a pretty bow on it!
The Face Shop Living Nature Face Masks (Set of 15) — $16. With the increased awareness of Korean Skincare routines, paper face masks have become extremely popular. I have tried multiple brands and my favorite remains The Face Shop. Each mask is soaked in natural essences, smell incredible and soak nicely into my skin. One of my complaints with face masks is how they slip around, so I use a mask cover ($3.50)to keep it in place!
Boar Bristle Brush — $12. Boar bristle brushes are an essential component of my weekly hair routine. They help diminish my natural frizz while also massaging my scalp (to reduce dryness). Everyone should have one!
Silk Pilowcases — $10 each. For years I heard about the benefits of sleeping on silk pillowcases. They reduce wrinkles and keep your blowouts from getting out of control while you sleep! This summer I finally purchased some and my hair has never looked better!
This completes my beauty and skin care gift giving guide! Stay tuned for my favorite gifts for all the fashionistas in your life.
This week I completed the third week of my November Lip Challenge (if you missed week one and two of the challenge, just click here and here)! As hard as it’s getting to choose new colors each day, it’s shocking how many favorites I haven’t worn yet!
Monday, November 16, 2015
I woke up this morning exhausted, freezing and with no lippie inspiration. At the last minute I decided to put on one of my favorite summer collaborations. I put on Mac’s Steam Heat lipstick with Hot/Cold lipglass from this summer’s Wash and Dry Collection. Each time I wear these colors I remember that I love the packaging more than the actual lip color.
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
Dallas had crazy weather in the middle of the night so I have been up since 3:45 this morning waiting out tornado warnings and never got back to sleep. While not my most overall polished look, I do feel like a walking Christmas tree between my green plaid cape and my red lips! Today I opted for another Mac LE: Charlotte from the Giambattista Valli collection. When this color was released this summer, I thought the shade of red was way too dark, but now that Fall is (finally) here, this may be my very favorite red right now.
Wednesday, November 18, 2015
It is not uncommon for my friends to invite me lipstick shopping when they are looking for a new color. Usually, these trips end with me purchasing a new color. That’s how I ended up with this beauty. While shopping for the perfect “brick red” for her, I randomly tried on Lancôme Rouge in Love 383N Midnight Crush knowing I don’t have “any” similar shades! I thought it was a pretty color but was especially impressed with how it felt on. Today was the first time I wore it. It’s not a “wow” for me (I just really love bold colors) but it feels amazing and lasted all day!
Friday, November 20, 2015
I was busy working on loads of end of semester papers, presentations and projects yesterday so I never left my house, let alone put on any lipstick (this also explains why I look part vampire today). I am back today, and decided that I was not in the mood for my Friday wardrobe (my terrible school spirit shirt) so being the rebel I am I wore real clothes and opted for Tarte’s Amazonian Butter Lipstick in Tulip. Not my fave, but it works!
That completes the third week of my November Lip Challenge. I am slightly embarrassed to admit that I could easily continue this challenge into next month. Follow my challenge daily on my Instagram: @Jessicasgoneviral and share your own looks with the hashtag: #NovemberLipChallenge
I can’t believe I have already completed the second week of my November Lip Challenge (if you missed week one of the challenge, just click here)!I will admit it is getting harder for me to pick out my daily lip look.I am definitely taking more time picking out my outfits so I can make sure I have an unused color to coordinate with.This week I used a variety of bolds and neutrals, a few I forgot I even had!!
Monday, November 9, 2015
This summer I was browsing in Nordstrom’s beauty department and a salesperson from Smashbox offered to give me a makeover.I was killing time so decided to let her.I’m not a huge fan of their products (aside from their primers) but loved the lip stain she used on me, BeetIt.I love this color on me, and am always surprised by just how much I love it.It has fantastic staying power but tends to feather on me, even if I use a reverse liner.
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
I was really in the mood for a soft look this morning so I didn’t think twice about my lip choice!I combined Mac’s Creme de la Femme lipstick with Nymphette lipglass.I discovered this look last year when I had my makeup done before the Jay Z and Beyoncé On The Run tour and it has remained part of my regular rotation ever since.
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
I love wearing bold lips with black dresses.I realized that I haven’t really worn any berry lip colors this fall so I decided to pull one out.In February, Make Up For Ever released a limited edition lip set to coincide with the release of the 50 Shades of Grey movie.The set included a lip liner, lip stain, clear gloss and berry colored gloss.For this look I used the liner, stain and clear gloss.FYI, this product has a funny “taste” to it.I don’t typically taste my lip products but it is kind of hard to miss sometimes!
Thursday, November 12, 2015
Earlier this year I became fixated on finding the right “neutral pink.”I spent way more time than I am proud to admit looking at various swatches and adding them to my wish list.Quickly I moved on to another color obsession but when Mac announced their Some Enchanted Eve holiday collection, I instantly recognized Please Me from my wish list.I obviously picked it up and realized I needed a lip liner to go with it so I also grabbed Rosy Rim.I still don’t think this is the right color for me, but it’ll do until I find it!
Friday, November 13, 2015
I don’t know how I made it ten days into this challenge without wearing my favorite lip color: Too Faced Melted Ruby.Those of you who read my very first blog know that this is where my love of makeup started.I love this color and I have a soft spot for it.It wears beautifully as long as I wear a lip primer and reverse liner!
That completes the second week of my November Lip Challenge.My container of used products is filling up and there are some I will definitely miss during the next few weeks.Follow my challenge daily on my Instagram: @Jessicasgoneviral and share your own looks with the hashtag: #NovemberLipChallenge
I have a confession to make: I am a lippie addict.I am not partial to one type of lip product over another, I love them all.Crayons, sticks, glosses, mattes, liquids, it doesn’t matter; when I see them, I lose all of my self control and begin imagining how they will be the perfect “finishing touch” to some ensemble.While looking into my over flowing lipstick drawer I decided that I was going to challenge myself to wear a different lip product every weekday this month.To help me keep track, I am taking a photo each day and placing the used lippie in a separate container so that I am not tempted to use it again!
Monday, November 2, 2015
I wanted to start the challenge off with a bold lip so I opted for Laura Gellar’s Love me Dew Moisturizing Lip Crayon in Cranberry Glaze.I bought this lip crayon on a whim when Ulta was offering 5x points for any Laura Gellar product.Because I have a soft spot for reds, I quickly picked this up.I love this product, it goes on easily and has amazing staying power!I have not tried any of her other products, but this is a frequent favorite of mine.
Tuesday, November 3, 2015
Today I wore one of my all time favorite colors, Lipstick Queen Hot Rose Sinner.Hot Rose Sinner is an opaque, mostly matte shade, with just a hint of a sheen. This is the only Lipstick Queen product I own, and the color is perfect with my fair complexion.It is bright without being over the top and I can wear it with almost anything.
Wednesday, November 4, 2015
I am always on the lookout for a light pink shade that actually shows up on me.Today I wore Tarte Amazonian Butter Lipstick in Pink Peony.To be honest, I don’t love this one.As much as I love Tarte products, their lip products really don’t show well on me.I have yet to find a color that looks good on me.One attribute of their lipsticks that I do love is how moisturizing they are.They feel great, I just wished they looked great as they feel!
Thursday, November 5, 2015
Today was not a fantastic day for me, I felt (and looked) terrible.It turns out I was suffering a “nasty” throat infection.As a way of cheering myself up a bit I decided to put on Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Never Say Never.I love Nars and especially love their lip pencils (both matte and satin finishes).In addition to applying easily and wearing well, they always give my lips a plump and defined look.As much as I love this color, I often forget I have it.I’m loving that this challenge is encouraging me to wear colors I don’t typically reach for!
Friday, November 6, 2015
On Friday’s I have to wear my school’s spirit shirt.Personally, I am not a fan of softball inspired tees so I always try to dress the look up a bit with a bold (usually red) lip.This week I wore a classic red: Mac Ruby Woo.Apparently, my look was inspired by the Starbucks Siren on my coffee cup!
That complete’s the first week of my November Lip Challenge.My bucket is already filling up with lippies I am going to miss for the rest of the month!Follow my challenge daily on my Instagram: @Jessicasgoneviral and share your own looks with the hashtag: #NovemberLipChallenge.
Halloween has always been a mixed bag of treats for me.I love seeing kiddos all dressed up in their costumes, watching scary movies and making spooky inspired snacks but dressing up as an adult has never been something I got into.When conversations about Halloween start coming up, I enthusiastically nod my head and pretend to get excited, knowing there is no way I will participate.Not only is my creativity extremely stunted, Halloween is one of the few times my typically sky high self esteem leaves me.For some unknown reason, I changed my attitude this year and decided to embrace the holiday!
Friday was crazy busy, but I still wanted to look my Halloween best!I started the day in a subtle ensemble because the school I work at doesn’t celebrate Halloween.I wore a simple “This is my Costume” graphic tee that I picked up at Target with some black jeggings and my sugar skull Converse sneakers.I love these shoes and was excited that it was finally a seasonally appropriate time to wear them.
Friday Outfit #1
In the middle of the day, I broke away for a little while to visit my favorite 5 year old for her school’s Pumpkin Day Picnic.Unfortunately it was raining, but I was prepared.I changed into an off the shoulder sweatshirt that had a witch on a broom stick and said “Frequent Flyer” and my red Hunter rain boots.I was excited to see how happy she was to show off the Hello Kitty inspired pumpkin we had decorated together!
Friday Outfit #2/Hello Kitty Pumpkin
Finally it was time the night’s big festivity, a Ludacris concert with my bestie! I changed into a sweater I bought on tipsyelves.com with a break dancing skeleton on it, black leggings and (because it was still raining) I stuck with my Hunter rainboots! Jaime and I both love taking pictures with props so we brought fun spider light up glasses and masks with us.
Friday Outfit #3 with Jaime
On Saturday, I started getting ready with a blow out from Dry Bar.This wasn’t my very favorite blow out (I usually like my curls a little tighter for the staying power), but it still looked nice.Afterwards I came home and made some little ghost cookies to bring to a pre-party I was attending that evening before going to The W with my friends!
One of these things is not like the others
I was so excited to bring my Dia de Los Muertos concept to life with the help of my friend Nicole.She was so nervous to mess up my face (and we did have a few snafus in the middle) but it turned out great!With my makeup done it was finally time to throw on my dress and flower crown before heading out (and what a fun night it was)!
As much fun as I had, taking all that makeup off was a bit of a chore, but not nearly as terrible as I had feared. I started with Julep Bareface Cleansing Oil to break down the makeup. Next, I washed my face with my Clarisonic. I finished up with a Neutrogena makeup remover wipe. While my face was erased of all signs of makeup, my Clarisonic Deep Pore head is unsalvageable! Totally worth it!
*I have linked each product for purchase.Each product mentioned I purchased for myself based solely on word of mouth and intuition.I have linked each product to an online retailer but do not receive any compensation if you choose to purchase from them.
Due to traveling with limited internet access over the past few weeks, I was unable to participate in @bellereneebeauty’s #JuneBeautyChallenge (weeks 1 and 2 are linked in case you missed them).As the challenge continued, I tried hard to highlight new and different products I use, but it was a real challenge!I was able to discover my true “holy grail” products!
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@ bellereneebeauty #JuneBeautyChallenge
Day 15: Hair Essentials
Confession time: I only wash my hair once a week.I have crazy thick hair which takes forever to fully dry and I don’t have the time, or patience, to worry about it too often.In order to keep this mane of mine under control all of these products are extremely necessary!As with most things in my life, I have a fairly consistent hair care routine which allows me to wear various styles through out the week but still refrain from washing it.
Today I realized that I had not shared anything from my first true love: nail polish.Long before I cared at all about makeup or skin care I had a true infatuation with all things nail polish related.I wanted to show love for many of my favorite brands by showing off (some of) my pink collection!
Day 17: Best Sale Purchase
One of my favorite times of year occurs around this time each summer: the Beauty Brands Liter sale!I tend to go way over board, thinking that I need a shampoo and conditioner for every single hair type, just in case my hair changes during the year.It is more than a tad insane, considering I only wash my hair once a week.Confession: these are just the products out of the shower, there are tons in there as well!
Day 18: Neutral Nail Polish
I have a love hate relationship with neutral polishes.I adore them when I see them.I think they are so pretty and clean looking, but I have never found a shade that didn’t make my nails look grimy.Instead I opt for super dark colors in the fall/winter and bright colors in the spring/summer.This is as neutral as I get!
As a self proclaimed product hoarder, I have an endless supply of “favorites.”When looking back at previous challenge entries, I realized I hadn’t shared my love of the Urban Decay Naked Palettes!I have all three of the UD Naked palettes (and both Basic palettes) but Naked 2 and Naked 3 are the eye colors I am constantly reaching for!
Day 20: Green
I really don’t use many products with bright colors, so I didn’t know how I was going to complete this challenge.Then I realized that I have tons of pictures wearing various masks and thought that would be fun!Earlier this year, my favorite little four year old, H, was begging to do a mask with me.I was really hesitant to let her wear one, because I wasn’t sure any would be safe on her skin, so we decided to make our own mixing together avocado, honey and greek yogurt.This picture remains one of her very favorites because she thinks we look like Shrek.
Day 21: Skin Essentials
I am currently completely obsessed with all things related to skin care.Narrowing down all of the products I use to essentials was a nearly impossible task.I was traveling at the time of this prompt so I figured that if I had bothered to pack a product up and bring it with me, it must be essential!
That completes the third week of the #JuneBeautyChallenge!Stay tuned for week 4: most recent buy, best subscription, products I regret, travel essentials, hard to find products, blue and best exfoliator.
You can keep up with my challenge by following my Instagram: @JessicasGoneViral
*I have linked to the website of each product whenever possible.In cases where the product is not sold directly from the brand’s website, I linked to Amazon.
Life has been a little crazy the last two weeks so I haven’t been quite as “viral” as I usually am!Today I am starting a new feature called Sample Size Show and Tell.I have been doing a ton of online shopping recently and received an abundance of samples.Confession time: I am terrible about using samples.I am so attached to the items that I use, that I have a hard time branching out and trying samples. I thought that featuring them on here would help me kill two birds with one stone.My first show and tell is for Murad’s Invisiblur Perfecting Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 30.
The Product
0.17 FL. OZ. / 5 ML
Murad’s Invisiblur is targeted as a single step makeup/skincare treatment that will blur facial imperfections while also leaving your skin with a matte, velvety texture.They also recommend using this product as a mattifying facial primer.
The Invisiblur container has a pump which allows you to distribute small amounts of the product directly onto your hand.The clear gel-like consistency applies easily and evenly over your face, and a little bit goes a long way!
Final Thoughts
I used this product solely as a primer.I am always on the lookout for a good mattifying primer during my shiny summer months and this product was a good option.It does not have a strong scent, which I like, and I loved how smooth my face felt.It really did a great job minimizing my shine throughout the day.While I liked the product, I don’t think I would purchase the full size which retails for $65.00.I did not feel that it did anything over and above the other mattifying primers I use, Julep Blank Canvas and Tarte Clean Slate Poreless 12 Hour Perfecting.
I had another fun week participating in the @bellereneebeauty #JuneBeautyChallenge on Instagram (the complete challenge is shown below). While last week (linked here if you missed it), I was able to instantly come up with ways to participate, this week’s tasks were a little more thought provoking for me.Here are all of my favorite products (with links to purchase*) from week 2!
@ bellereneebeauty #JuneBeautyChallenge
Day 8: Mani Monday
Nail polish was my first true love, so I have a polish collection that rivals most high-end nail salons.I have recently discovered, and fallen in love with, Butter London’s new Patent Shine 10x line.Seriously, these polishes are soooo shiny.Butter London claims that you do not need a base or top coat with this polish and it will stay shiny for 10 days, promote nail growth and health, all while giving the cushioned look of a salon gel manicure.I have yet to try the polish without base and top coats, but the combination of Orly Bonder Base Coat and Dior Gel Top Coat (my all time favorite top coat) I am able to rock a pristine manicure for well over a week.This week I am wearing one of my new favorite summer colors, Jolly Good!
Day 9: Repurchased Products
I am admittedly a product junkie. Very few things make me as happy as walking into my favorite beauty stores and finding a new product to try out.With that being said, I am also extremely loyal to favorite brands and products.Once I find items that transform my skin, nails, or makeup looks I repurchase and repurchase.For this challenge, I chose 8 items that I currently have backups of (and in some cases, backups for my backups).
IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Redness.This was a complete impulse purchase.I was at Ulta one day and one of the sales ladies asked if I wanted to have my world rocked.Of course I said yes, who doesn’t want their world rocked on a random Thursday afternoon? I let her apply this product to my red cheeks and nose and couldn’t believe the difference it made.I have never been without it since.This is not a product I use every day but it is perfect when I want a more polished look!
Trader Joes Spa Tea Tree Oil.Tea tree oil has so many fantastic uses but I use it to maintain my weekly blow outs.I apply it 4 nights a week to the tips of my fingers and massage it into my scalp.This curbs the effects of dry scalp, which is a huge problem of mine.
Maybelline Lash Stiletto Mascara. Back when my makeup routine consisted of nothing but mascara and lipgloss, this was my go to mascara.Now that I have discovered all sorts of new products, I still keep this mascara around.I often use it as a bottom layer mascara to lengthen my lashes before adding a higher end, volumizing mascara.
Tarte Lights Camera Lashes.Another fantastic mascara that I keep on hand.The combination of this mascara and my Lash Stiletto provides my favorite lash look.With a primer or on it’s own, Lights Camera Lashes is amazing and my lashes love it!
Tarte Maracuja Oil.When I first began exploring skin care, I watched a YouTube blogger named Miss Jen Fabulous who raved about this product.To be honest, I had no idea what she was talking about and the notion of putting oil on my face totally freaked me out.I slowly began reading more and more about it and when it went on sale last September as a part of Ulta’s 21 days of Beauty, I picked it up and it quickly became an integral part of my skin care routine.
Julep Bare Face Cleansing Oil.If I had to choose one product to bring with me to a deserted island, this would be it!I have been a Julep Maven for a few years and received this in one of my monthly boxes.Of course at the time I didn’t even wash my face so I had absolutely no use for this product and placed it in a basket beneath my sink.Then one day while watching a KellyLovesBeauty1 YouTube video, she started talking about the benefits of using cleansing oils in removing makeup (something I had just begun wearing) during your nightly routine.I quickly went and found this item and haven’t stopped using it since!
Julep Blank Canvas.Like Bare Face, I received this in a monthly box, had no use for it and put it in a basket of unused products beneath my sink.One day last summer, shortly after I began washing my face, I noticed how shiny my forehead was.I couldn’t decide if this was due to the Texas heat or because washing my face had somehow changed my skin.Either way, I knew I had a problem on my hand.I began reading about what to do and someone somewhere recommended mattifying primers.Again, I knew I had some under my sink and the transformation of my summer skin, both with and without makeup, was miraculous!
Day 10: Favorite Colored Liner
Confession time: I hate colored liners.I don’t wear them on my lips and can’t stand them on my eyes, so when this challenge came about I was stuck.While I do have a few that I have accumulated over the past year, I don’t have strong feelings for them and didn’t want to give them my stamp of approval.Instead I chose to share the opposite of a colored liner: a reverse liner!The clear colored reverse liner I use is by DuWop.I love this liner.It’s the perfect shape to give me full protection and does not leave the area around my lips looking waxy.It excels at preventing bleeding and (when applied 3 times in a row) does not need to be reapplied later in the day.
Day 11: Red
Red is my absolute favorite color so the only trouble I would have with this challenge would be deciding how exactly to accomplish it!Rather than focusing solely on red makeup items, I decided to display an entire red inspired outfit.At the time of this picture, it had been raining in Dallas for (what felt like) months.I was rarely seen without my two favorite red accessories, my Lulu Guiness umbrella** and red Hunter Huntress Glossy Rain Boots.To complete my black and red ensemble I added my favorite red lipstick and lipglass: Viva Glam Rhianna!
Note: The photo I posted for the challenge was cropped to fit the “Instagram Square.”I am sharing the full photo.
Day 12: All Glammed Up
Most makeup lovers probably found this to be one of our easiest challenges.Not me.While I do love makeup I do not consider myself even remotely glamorous.I wear fairly basic looks topped off with bright lips.For this task, I went through some pictures and chose a selfie that I took at the Academy of Country Music Awards in April.I loved my look that night!My hair was done at The Hair Bar and I had my makeup done at Mac.I showed my makeup artist my dress and a basic idea for my eyes (a smokey ombre look) and she took it to the next level!
Note: the lighting of this picture is a little funky due to the lights at the awards show, the photo is not filtered!
Day 13: What’s in my Shower
For this photo I decided to show the full size products of what is in my shower.My actual shower contains dozens of travel size items for two reasons: I have limited space and I like to alternate products (especially shampoos regularly).Here is a sample of what’s in my shower:
Clarisonic Plus.When I bought my first Clarisonic, it took me nearly three weeks to warm up to it.Once I did it became the focal point of my skin care routine.I quickly began coveting the body brush function.Around Christmas, the Clarisonic Plus was on special at Ulta (and 5X points!) so I snatched it up.My skin has never felt cleaner or smoother.
Trader Joe’s Lavender Salt Scrub.Although the Clarisonic Plus came with a body polish, I already had this scrub in my shower.The combination of this sweet smelling scrub with my Clarisonic Plus is amazing!
Joico Color Endure Violet Sulfate-Free Shampoo.As I have mentioned in previous blog entries, I only wash my hair once a week.This is one of the few products I use EVERY wash because it keeps all of the brassy tones out of my highlighted blonde hair!
Redken Hair Cleansing Cream Shampoo.It takes numerous products to maintain a blow out for a week so product build up is fairly common.My hairdresser recommended using this shampoo to help diminish the buildup and maintaining a shiny, healthy look.It’s important not to overuse this shampoo or your hair will begin looking dull!
Redken Smooth Lock Shampoo and Conditioner.I am a huge fan of Redken products, but this is my favorite of their lines!It leaves my hair frizz free (always a plus) while also protecting from the various heat tools I use throughout the week.
Day 14: Best Sun Care
Sun care is always important, but living in Texas, where the sun is always blazing, it is especially imperative.I take numerous strides to keep my fair complexion safe!
Panama Hat.I look terrible in hats!I have a huge head so they rarely fit me right.I often sport short hair which makes me feel like I look manly when wearing them.This hat is different.It’s a little bigger and now that I have longer hair, I don’t feel self conscious about wearing it.
Ray Ban Purple Mirrored Aviators.I am obsessed with this line of glasses.I own numerous pairs and they make any outfit pop.When they released mirrored aviators in purple, I quickly snatched them up.
ColoreScience Sunforgettable – SPF 50.This stuff is amazing!A lady I work with mentioned that her dermatologist recommended it and asked if I had heard of it.I hadn’t but began reading about it and couldn’t wait to try it.It is a mineral sunscreen that comes inside an application brush.You apply it directly to your face and you are good to go.My favorite part of this product is that it doesn’t leave me greasy looking, which is a huge issue in the summer.
Kiehls Lip Balm – SPF 15.Lip protection is often forgotten when considering sun safety.I make sure I always have a lip balm with SPF and in the summer this is my favorite.Not only does it protect my lips from the sun rays, it is also super moisturizing.
Ocean Potion Cool Dry Touch – SPF 50.Surprisingly enough, I don’t have strong opinions about sunscreen brands (I’m sure that will change).I like a lot of Ocean Potion products but what I specifically like about this one is that it applies cool (always a bonus in Texas) and does not leave my skin greasy, which I hate!
That concludes this week’s challenge.Stay tuned for next week when I will reveal my hair essentials, pink, best sale purchase, neutral nail polish, Friday favorites, green, and skin essentials (my favorite!).
*I have linked to the website of each product whenever possible.In cases where the product is not sold directly from the brand’s website, I linked to Amazon.
Last week, a friend of mine suggested that we participate in @bellereneebeauty’s #JuneBeautyChallenge on Instagram. I was instantly on board knowing that: (a) I love sharing my favorite products with the world, (b) I am obsessed with discovering new products and (c) it gave my friend and I something fun to do together, especially in the summer months when we won’t see each other as frequently. The challenge is simple: each day you post a picture to Instagram with the hashtag #JuneBeautyChallenge that corresponds with that day’s theme (the complete challenge is shown below). The rest is up to you. Here are all of my favorite products (with links to purchase*) from the first week!
@ bellereneebeauty #JuneBeautyChallenge
Day 1: Most Flattering Lipstick
As a self proclaimed lipstick junkie this decision was nearly impossible for me!I finally landed on Mac Viva Glam Miley with the matching lipglass.I have been obsessed with this lippie duo since the day it was released, and it is one of the few lipsticks that I will wear more than once in the same week.Not only is itflattering for my skin tone but is also bold without being too bright.I can wear it anytime of the year and with almost any ensemble.It has slowly become my signature color!
Day 1: Most Flattering Lipstick
Day 2: Favorite Matte Product
I don’t have particularly oily skin but during a Texas summer, even the driest skin gets shiny.For this challenge I chose two products that work together to keep my skin remarkably shine free.The first product is Urban Decay’s De Slick Oil-Control Makeup Setting Spray.I spray this on after applying my makeup and it keeps my shine down and my makeup in place all day.This product alone keeps me happy most of the year, but now that the temperature is (finally) climbing, I needed a backup product; enter Mally Beauty’s Face Defender w/ Sponge.
This product is a sheer, weightless, waxy consistency.Using a sponge you apply the product directly to your shiny spots and your face returns to a matte-like state.This is the perfect product to keep in your purse and use throughout the day.It is an amazing product but I must be honest, there are a few design flaws with the compact.First of all, it is really heavy and I can’t figure out why since the product certainly isn’t heavy.My other concern is the sponge.For some reason the sponge doesn’t fit in the compact (I don’t know who thought this was a good idea).Because I don’t want a dirty sponge floating around in my purse, I usually pack up the whole box it came in, making it even heavier to haul around.All in all, this does not change the holy-grail status of this product for me, so I make do and hope that they will redesign the product in the future!
Day 2: Favoritte Matte Product
Day 3: Favorite Body Lotion
I am not a huge lotion girl (I know I should be), so this was a little harder for me.I ultimately chose St.Ive’s Naturally Soothing Oatmeal and Shea Butter and Ocean Potion Ever Glow.Because I am not a connoisseur of body lotions I don’t know if either of these are any more or less moisturizing than other products but my skin seems to like them so I continue to replace them.I do enjoy the slow “tan” that the Ocean Potion gives my fair skin.I never turn orange and it provides a subtle change of color over time, so it isn’t too shocking!
Day 3: Favorite Body Lotion
Day 4: Purple
This was an easy decision for me.5 days before (and way before I knew about this challenge) I dyed the tips of my hair a shade of purple.This is something I had contemplated doing for almost a year but, due to professional obligations, wasn’t brave enough to try .With summer here I felt like now was the ideal time and it worked out perfectly for the challenge!
Day 4: Purple
Day 5: Two of a Kind
I went back and forth on how to complete this challenge.As a product junkie, I couldn’t decide if I should show dupes, multiple items from the same line (i.e. my collection of Too Faced Melted Lipsticks), or items I have backups of.Finally I decided to show products I have in multiple sizes.I love to travel but never want to take 5,000 full sized products with me, so anytime I see a product I use in a sample or travel size, I snatch them up and throw them in my cosmetic bag!Here is a collection of (some of) my favorite items in full and travel sizes.
I have had a longstanding love affair with witch hazel, making it an easy choice for this challenge.Long before I had any sort of skin care regimen, I consistently used witch hazel.I never knew what the purpose of it was, but my mom talked to me about it quite a bit as a teen, and it was the only thing product that ever stuck with me.I have always used the store brand of wherever I bought it from but recently took the advice of a friend and tried Thayer’s Rose Petal Witch Hazel, I paid $9.80 on Amazon . As a fan of both witch hazel and rose petal water, it seemed like a no brainer.Of course I tried it and fell in love.I apply this product every night as a toner (I use it at different times, depending on the other treatments I use that night, but typically right after I wash my face) and each morning in lieu of washing my face.I always apply this product with cotton pads and Ulta’s Exfoliating Rounds are by far my favorite.Making these cotton rounds even better is the fact that they are often on sale!They are $3.49, but the last time I purchased them they were buy 3, get 3 free.
Day 6: Best Bang for Your Buck
Day 7: Favorite Mask
I am a huge fan of facial masks.They are my favorite part of skin care and I use about three a week.Without a doubt my favorite mask is the Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay mask.This stuff is amazing.It comes as a powder which is then combined with Braggs Apple Cider Vinegar.You can feel the mask working instantly.Not only does your face begin to tighten, it also pulsates as the mask penetrates deeply into your pores.After 10-20 minutes the mask is removed and your skin may be red from the treatment.When this happens I often spritz my face with Heritage Store Rose Petals Rosewater and the redness subsides within 15 minutes.The internet is full of different recipes for this mask, which focus on specific skin needs, but I haven’t tried any of them yet.
Being the dedicated Amazon shopper that I am, I found a small bowl to make my mask with!For less than $3 it came with a bowl, spreading/mixing stick, three sizes of measuring spoons and an application brush.This makes the preparation of the mask even easier!
Day 7: Favorite Mask
That completes the first week of the #JuneBeautyChallenge.I can’t wait to continue this week sharing: mani Monday, repurchased products, favorite colored liners, red, all slammed up, what’s in my shower and best sun care!
You can keep up with my challenge by following my Instagram: @JessicasGoneViral
*I have linked to the website of each product whenever possible.In cases where the product is not sold directly from the brand’s website, I linked to Amazon.
Jessica's Gone Viral 