Let Sephora Help You Pick The Perfect Beauty Gift

Hey Beautiful!

It's holiday season and I know there are plenty of beauty lovers on your list!  Let Sephora make holiday shopping easy for you with their beauty kits and gift ideas!

Sephora is one of my favorite stores, and Sephora knows beauty and how personal it is to each individual.  They have different price point beauty deals that will allow you to find a the perfect gift without breaking the bank.  Gifts like stocking stuffer minis, full size products and organized kits. Check out all of these great deals online and at your local Sephora store!

Here are a few of the popular products available at Sephora!

Sephora Collection Once Upon A Castle Advent Calendar ($45)*  

This is the gift that keeps on giving for 24 days!  It is designed to be given before the 1st of December so that the recipient can open 1 door each day leading up to Christmas.    This is a fun gift that is filled with useful beauty products.  Want to know what's inside?  I won't tell.  Advent beauty calendars sell out fast, so if you see one you are interested in, grab it while you can.  If this set isn't listed on the site, it probably sold out.  

Visit Sephora's Advent Calendar section to see which other great beauty advent calendars are available!

Cologne Sampler ($65)

Inside this box, you’ll find 10 samples of some of Sephora's most popular men’s fragrances. Choose your favorite, and then take the included scent certificate to any US Sephora store* to redeem for a full size of your favorite featured fragrance at no extra cost.  (Visit site for details)

This is great for any guy on your list.  It allows him to try different scents and explore new ones.  When he finds one he likes, he can take the enclosed certificate to Sephora and pick out a full size bottle!  The travel case is perfect for travel.

This set contains: 
- 0.06 oz/ 1.7 mL Atelier Cologne Vanille Insensée Pure Perfume
- 0.06 oz/ 2 mL Burberry Mr. Burberry Indigo Eau de Toilette
- 0.05 oz/ 1.5 mL Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Eau Intense Pour Homme Eau de Parfum
- 0.04 oz/ 1.2 mL Giorgio Armani Acqua Di Gio Absolu Eau de Parfum
- 0.03 oz/ 1 mL Givenchy Gentleman Eau de Toilette
- 0.05 oz/ 1.5 mL John Varvatos Artisan Pure Eau de Toilette
- 0.05 oz/ 1.5 mL Paco Rabanne 1 Million Lucky Eau de Toilette
- 0.05 oz/ 1.5 mL Prada Luna Rossa Black Eau de Parfum
- 0.03 oz/ 1 mL Versace Dylan Blue Pour Homme Eau de Toilette
- 0.04 oz/ 1.2 mL Yves Saint Laurent Y Eau de Toilette

Perfume Sampler ($65)

Inside this box, you’ll find 15 samples of some of the most popular fragrances. Choose your favorite, and then take the included scent certificate to any US Sephora store* to redeem for a full size of your favorite featured fragrance at no extra cost. (Visit site for details)

I love fragrance and love to change it up depending on my mood and time of day.  I also love trying new scents.  This set is perfect for someone like me.  It allows me to try new scents and when I find one I love, I can take my certificate to Sephora and trade it in for a full size bottle.

This set contains: 
- 0.06 oz/1.7 mL Atelier Cologne Clementine California Pure Perfume
- 0.06 oz/ 2mL Burberry My Burberry Blush Eau de Parfum
- 0.04 oz/ 1.2 mL Chloe Eau de Parfum
- 0.05 oz/ 1.5 mL Clean Reserve Acqua Neroli Eau de Parfum
- 0.05 oz/ 1.5 mL Dolce&Gabbana Light Blue Eau Intense Eau de Parfum
- 0.05 oz/ 1.5 mL Kat Von D Saint Eau de Parfum
- 0.05 oz/ 1.5 mL Kat Von D Sinner Eau de Parfum
- 0.04 oz/ 1.2 mL Marc Jacobs Daisy Eau de Toilette
- 0.04 oz/ 1.5 mL Nest Fragrances Black Tulip Eau de Parfum
- 0.05 oz/ 1.5 mL Prada Candy Sugar Pop Eau de Parfum
- 0.05 oz/ 1.5 mL Tocca Maya Eu de Parfum
- 0.05 oz/ 1.5 mL Tom Ford Black Orchid Eau de Parfum
- 0.05 oz/ 1.5 mL Tory Burch Just Like Heaven Extrait de Parfum
- 0.03 oz/ 1 mL Versace Bright Crystal Eau de Toilette
- 0.04 oz/ 1.2 mL Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium Eau de Parfum

Sephora Cream Lip Stain Set ($28)

What it is:
A set that features six shades of bestselling Cream Lip Stain.  I love lip products.  This one makes a great stocking stuffers and has so many great colors that look good on any skin tone.

What it does:
Sephora Collection's bestselling, high-coverage lip color glides on smooth and transforms from a creamy texture into a silky, lightweight stain. Infused with avocado oil, the long-lasting formula delivers rich color that feels comfortable, is never sticky, and won’t dry out lips. The precise applicator hugs lips for the ultimate precision and the lightweight, long-wearing matte formula keeps color comfortably in place. A must-have for any holiday soirée.

This set contains:
- 6 x 0.169 oz/ 5 mL Cream Lip Stain in Always Red, Pink Souffle, Copper Blush, Glowing Beige, Soft Coral, Purple Red

Sephora Collection Twinkle Time Sponge ($10)

What it is:
A super soft and bouncy dual-ended blending sponge for effortless and expert blending, infused with silver glitter and in a star Holiday ornament.

What it does:
Add a little Holiday sparkle to your everyday makeup routine. Silver glitter is sprinkled right in this soft and bouncy expert blending sponge for an elevating makeup application experience. The dual-ended sponge features a wide base to cover larger surfaces of the face, while the pointed tip is ideal for contouring around facial curvatures, and for precision application around the nose, chin, and under the eyes. This shape is easy to grip and use—hold from the base for a softer application, of grip from the curved waist for a heavier application. It makes the perfect gift comes in a star Holiday ornament.

What else you need to know:
This sponge is made of polyurethane and formulated without natural latex. This sponge is recommended to be used wet, for a more sheer, dewy and natural application. It can also be used dry for a heavier, full coverage effect. 

Visit Sephora's Gift Guide  to see all of the perfect beauty gifts that you can purchase!  The Guide is conveniently broken down by price, recipient, category, top rated, editor's picks, luxury gifts, exclusives, and more.  

Check out my video showing these great items!

Disclosure:  I received products to review. All opinions expressed are my own.

This post was originally posted on my review blog www.chattypattysplace.com

Beauty Sets Your Little Ones Will Adore!

Hey Beauties! Do you have little ones who love playing with your makeup? Townley Girl has the perfect beauty kits for them !

Townley Girl carries the most adorable cosmetic sets featuring Disney Princesses, Minnie Mouse and more!

If your little one loves to play make up and dress up, Townley Girl has the perfect gift ideas for you.These sets are perfect for little girls aged 3 and up.  There are beauty sets to make any little girl smile.

I was sent a few sets to review and will be featuring them on my Holiday Gift Guide. 

There are beauty sets like the adorable Minnie Mouse Ultimate Cosmetic Set which features a light up mirror, brush, lip gloss, nail stickers and cute sparkly hair bows!

There are also nail polish sets like this Disney Princess Nail set that comes with an emery board and rings.

Check out all of the products that I received to review in my YouTube video including this Love @Initial Site Nail Polish featuring my initial!

Townley Girl Beauty Sets make perfect Party Favors, Gifts, Stocking Stuffers and Incentives!

Other brands carried by Townley girl include:

• Disney Princess
• Emoji
• Fancy Nancy
• Frozen
• Hotel Transylvania 3
• Incredibles 2
• Little Tikes
• Minnie Mouse
• My Little Pony
• Nightmare Before Christmas
• Play-Doh Bath
• TownleyGirl
• Trolls
• Vampirina

Be sure to visit their website to see all of the beautiful products they carry.

Disclosure:  I received products to review for my honest personal opinion.

Is Your Makeup Routine Effecting Your Skin and Health

Do you find your skin is blotchy, acne prone or dull?  Your makeup routine may be to blame.  Researchers have found that makeup can have various side effects on your skin and even your health.

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Here is a list of side effects that can be caused by makeup.


1. Allergies

People can have adverse reactions to chemicals and dyes in the makeup products that they wear.  Parabens that are used as preservatives to prevent bacteria growth in cosmetics can cause various allergic reactions such as skin irritations, blemishes, and blotches.  Another ingredient in makeup, Salicylate can cause hives and rashes, especially if you have sensitive skin.  


2. Eye Irritations

Eye makeup is one of the most used cosmetics worn by women.  The eyes are the most sensitive area on the face.  If you wear a lot of eye makeup, you can be damaging your eyes.  Makeup that gets in your eyes can cause irritation.  Wearing too much mascara and eyeliner can inhibit the growth of lashes.  It can also breed bacteria which may lead to infections or irritations.

3. Headache

There are chemicals in some makeup products that tend to release formaldehyde.  Diazolidinyl urea and DMDM Hydantoin are used as preservatives.  They can cause headaches, mucous membrane irritations and even damage the eyes.  If you find yourself getting headaches often, check the ingredients of your cosmetics or try going without makeup for a week and see if that makes a difference.

4. Acne

This is probably the most common side effect of cosmetics.  Because makeup covers the skin and blocks the pores,  the skin is not able to breathe and grow.  When you cover the pores, they can become clogged.  This leads to blackheads and break outs.  It is important to thoroughly clean the skin with natural cleansers at the end of each day.

5. Hair Loss

Hair products, such as gels, dyes, sprays, serums, shampoos and conditioners can have harmful chemicals in them.  You may not see the effects immediately, but over time and with continued use, you will see the damage.  These chemicals can cause scalp irritation, thinning hair, dandruff and hair loss.  Even extended uses of hair dyes can lead to discoloration.

6. Premature Ageing

Chemicals can cause permanent damage when skin products are used over long periods of time.  Eventually, you will begin to see signs of skin ageing.  These signs include wrinkles, skin patches and enlarged pores.  Trying to cover these flaws can cause even more damaging effects.  

7. Hormone Inbalances

Cosmetics can have effects on edocrine glands and even interfere with thyroid gland functions.  The chemical Triclosan, which is commonly used in deodorants and acne scrubs can accumulate in your body and affect the thyroid gland.  This can lead to hormonal imbalance, headaches, depression and even weight gain.


8. Infertility

Since, skincare products are absorbed into the skin, the chemicals seep into your body.  One product in particular, butyl paraben can effect the function of the male reproductive system.  These same parabens that are found even in products labeled natural, can have harmful side effects.


9. Skin Discoloration

Some skincare products contain ingredients that bleach or even darken skin.  Products that are not properly regulated can also cause skin discolorations.  This can lead to skin pigmentations, patchy skin, redness, freckles and uneven skin tone.  Try to avoid using chemical filed skincare and cosmetic products in your daily routine.  Instead, try natural and herbal products.  The best way to be sure to avoid the chemicals, is by reading labels.


10. Cancer

Toxic ingredients that are found in many skin care products can cause cancer.  While many products are tested before entering the market, there are still products that can have long term harmful effects.  Unfortunately there is no conclusive research that shows long term effects.  The chemicals that you should try to avoid are the following:

Formaldehyde
Coal tar
Benzene
Phenacetin
Untreated mineral oi
Chromium
Cadmium
Arsenic
Ethylene oxide
Quartz (Crystalline silica)

Pay attention to the ingredients you put on and in your body.  Over time, your skin will thank you.

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Get Ready For This Year's Spring and Summer Trends

Spring is here and Summer soon will be, so I wanted to get you caught up on all of the latest fashion trends that were seen on current runways.  According to Harpers Bazaar, these trends are already showing up, so get ready!  Check out the trends featuring some fashions from 402nBeyond.com.

SEQUINS and SPARKLES

You are going to be seeing a lot of sequins, sparkle and glitter this summer.  

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If you like your sparkles to be more subtle, try a piece with small amounts of sparkle like this top from 402nBeyond.

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PASTELS

Pinks, lilacs, lemons and pretty light blues among other shades will be everywhere.  Wear your pastels in a bold way by layering with unexpected items.  Make a bold statement.

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Checks

Checkered caps, coats and accessories.  You will be seeing a lot of these Burberry caps in various patterns.

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Clothing with checks are hot too.  This ruffled check top from 402nBeyond is perfect.

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PVC

Yes, plastic clothing is back and you will be seeing a lot of it. In my opinion, nobody does it better than Fendi.

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Fringe

You will be seeing a lot of fringe dresses like this gorgeous dress from Bottega Veneta

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BOLD COLORS

Summer is going to be very bright with bold colors.  The brighter, the better.

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SHEER

Look for sheer materials to make a huge fashion statement this season. Transparent fashions like this sheer top from 402nBeyond.com are all the rage.

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RUFFLES

Feminine ruffles are in this Spring and Summer.  Look for outfits that have large ruffles like this adorable romper.

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SPARKLE SHOES (CINDERELLA SHOES)

The sparklier, the better! Sparkle shoes are HOT for Spring and Summer!

These sparkly ballet slippers from Amazon (affiliate link) are on point!

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Or these Cinderella heels (affiliate link)

The last trend is 

CARRY MULTI BAGS

Carrying more than one bag at a time is a hot trend.  That should be easy if you like to shop til you drop!  Layer small cross body bags with a tote.  Make it a PVC tote and it is even better!

Look for these trends and pick some up for yourself!  Get a jump start on the season!

Disclosure:  This post contains some affiliate links.  This post was originally published on my review blog http://www.chattypattysplace.com

Five Simple Ways To Care for Fine Hair

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Having fine hair means you have to take extra special care of it.  People get fine hair for a variety of reasons.  Some may be born with it, others may experience it from years of hair abuse, even some medical conditions can cause you to have fine hair.  Whatever the reason may be, I am going to share five tips for helping you care for your beautiful tresses.

Tip 1- Care From Inside

A diet rich in iron and biotin is essential for people with fine hair.  Foods like kale, beans and spinach are not only rich in iron, but also contain biotin which can help to support healthy hair growth.  Other foods that are great for the hair are protein rich foods like nuts, eggs, whole grains.  The healthier you eat, the more your hair and body will reward you. Don't forget about water intake.  Your body loves water and so does you hair.

Tip 2 - Cleaning and Conditioning

The shampoos, conditioners and products that you use on your hair are important.  You should be looking for products that provide nourishing moisture to you hair.  Products like these Macadamia Professional Nourishing Moisture line are made to re-hydrate, strengthen and balance hair. They smell pretty too.

Tip 3 - Tame Your Towel

When you have fine hair, you shouldn't be roughly towel drying your hair.  Instead, gently blot your hair to remove excess moisture.  This will help cut down on frizz and tangles. Also, it will make drying it easier too.

Tip 4 - Change Your Part

Try parting your hair in the opposite direction, or if you part your hair in the middle, try parting it to the side.  This can add the look of volume to your hair.  Play with different styles.  If you like to wear pony tails, look for hair accessories that are specially made not to tangle or grab your hair.  The last thing you want to do is lose hair.  You may even want to speak to your hair dresser about getting a volumizing haircut.  Light layers can make a big difference in the appearance of  volume in your hair.

Tip 5 - Choose Your Brush Wisely

Picking the perfect hairbrush is important when you have fine hair.  Avoid round metal brushes that contract heat and can damage your hair even more when drying.  You also want to avoid hard plastic bristles because they tend to cause breakage because they snag at fine hair.  Instead, opt for a natural brush made of boar bristles or flexible nylon.  They will be easier on your hair and glide easier through it.  If you have a good brush,  feel free to give it a few brushes at night to give it a lustrous shine.

I hope these tips will help your fine hair looking more beautiful.

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Disclosure: This is a sponsored ad. We are a professional review site that receives products or compensation from the companies whose products we review or advertise. We test each product that we review thoroughly and give high marks to only the very best. We are independently owned and the opinions expressed here are our own. Your opinion may differ.

This article was originally posted on my review blog Chatty Patty's Place.

Tips for How to Keep Your Hair Color From Fading

I get my hair colored and highlighted a few times a year, and I find it important to maintain my color in between salon visits.

There are ways you can extend the life of your hair coloring and keep it looking its best.  Here are some tips to help you keep your hair looking great!

Wash Your Hair Less Often

Washing your hair too often strips the natural oils in your hair.  It also can fade your hair color if not done properly.

Use Color Safe Hair Products

Products like Luseta Keratin Shampoo and Conditioner are designed for dyed hair.  They are also sulfate, paraben and gluten free.  I personally use these products and they not only work great on extending my color, but make my hair look really healthy as well.  They are perfect for dry, damaged hair and help restore life to it.  They have a light floral scent that isn't overwhelming and rinse nicely.

Shampoos and Conditioners that are infused with Keratin can help you to maintain the strength of your hair and prevent damage from daily styling and exposure to harsh elements.

Always Rinse Your Hair With Cold Water

By rinsing with cold water, you are closing the cuticle of the hair. I studied Cosmetology when I was younger and that was one of the first things I was taught. Warm or hot water open the cuticle allowing products and elements to penetrate the hair shaft.  By rinsing with cold water at the end of your hair wash and conditioner you them close the shaft, keeping it protected.  Think of it as a roof and the cold water being the roof shingles.

Towel dry Your Hair

Over drying your hair is going to cause it to lose its sheen and your hair color will start to fade.  If you must blow dry it, do not keep it on a high heat setting.  Also, do not hold it too close to your head.  If you can, try to let your hair air dry as long as possible and blot it dry with a towel.  The less time you expose it to heating tools, the better.

Get a water purifier

Many times, the water in your home contains chlorine and other sediments which are not good for your hair or skin.  Of course chlorine will strip you hair color over time.  Try installing a shower head that has a water purification system built into it.  Check out the benefits you can get from an Aqua Home Filtered Shower Head.

• ★ WATER PURIFIER: Removes chlorine, heavy metals, bacteria, pesticides, chloramine, ammonia smell, sulfur and other sediments. Inhibits the growth of scale, algae, and mold in the bathtub
• ★ REVITALIZING BODY: Reduces dry, itchy skin, dandruff, and eczema. Cares about the skin, hair, and nails. Decreases the risk of developing asthma and bronchitis. 

I hope these small changes can help improve not only your hair color, but your hair and skin itself.

Disclosure:  This post was written with my best intentions to give you advice that has helped me personally.   Always speak to a professional before using any products you are not sure of.   This post contains affiliate links.  This post is also listed on my other blog located at www.chattypattysplace.com.

5 Quick and Easy Dry Skin Solutions

Winter is here and so is dry skin.  I hate that itchy, flaky feeling of dry skin and I wanted to find some solutions to help relieve it.  Check out these 5 quick and easy tips to help make your skin feel better.

Avoid Hot Showers

I know they feel so good after a long day, but hot water strips your skin of essential oils, so dial it back a little and your skin will thank you.

Use a Gentle Cleanser

Try to avoid body cleansing products that contain soap.  Yes I said soap.  Instead, opt for a cleanser that contains ceramides. Ceramides are fatty molecules that make up the outer barrier of your skin. Also, try to avoid anything with alcohol in it.  Be gentle when you exfoliate your skin.  Scrubbing too hard can damage your skin, so use soft strokes.

Shaving 101

Shave after you shower.  When you shave, you are also scraping off oils in your skin, When you shave after showering, you hair is softer and easier to remove. Never use a dull razor and always shave in the direction of your hair growth.

Dress wisely

Dress in layers to protect your skin against the elements. Wind and cold weather can dry out your skin.    Also, keep your lips protected with balms.  Use a moisturizer with SPF on your exposed skin.

Moisturize

Use simple moisturizers on your skin, like petroleum jelly and mineral oil. Shea butters, ceramides and glycerin added moisturizers are great for the skin.

Get a Humidifier

Heat in your home takes moisture out of the air, so get a humidifier to replenish it.  Keep it in your bedroom for best results. You can also purchase a humidity meter, or hygrometer which tracks the humidity in any room.  This can tell you if you should use a humidifier in it.

I hope these little tips can help make your beautiful skin feel more moisturized and healthy.

Stay beautiful!
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Disclosure:  This information was obtained from an article on WebMd.  This post contains affiliate links.

Top Rated Makeup Travel Case

I recently purchased this soft sided makeup train case for traveling.  It is one of Amazon's Top Rated items.  I can see why.

First, the bag has durable hardware that is very attractive and functions well. You can see how thich the zipper pull is in this photo..

This case also has adjustable compartments, which I think is genius.  I can adjust the case to fit my makeup needs.

The case itself is made from a durable polyester that is very easy to clean.  It has a nice deep, zippered pocket built into the lid for storing more makeup.  It is perfect for eye pencils and mascaras.

The bag also has an area for your makeup brushes with a protective flap.  

Check out my Youtube review.

This makeup case is available for UNDER $20 on Amazon from SHPMAS.

Disclosure:  This post contains affiliate links.  

This post is also listed on my review blog www.chattypattysplace.com