Friday, May 16, 2014

DISAPPOINTING PRODUCT: Murray's CoCo Soft Coconut Oil

I'm sure this product works great when it's used to style hair.  But as a deep conditioner for straight, fine hair?  Absolutely not. 


A little back-story:  I was in Milwaukee for a PR event and after six hours of listening to panel speakers and resume critiques I was ready to shop.  Urban Outfitters was right around the corner AND they were having a sale.  Score!  While I was waiting in line to check out, a pyramid of Murray's CoCo Soft coconut oil tubs caught my eye.  This was about a month ago when everyone was going crazy over "oil pulling" so I was intrigued.  I had zero interest in putting coconut oil in my mouth and swishing it around for 20 minutes, but using it as a hair mask? That I could do.  And it smelled AMAZING.  It was only $6 for a 12.5 oz. tub so I grabbed one and checked out.



I waited a few days to use it because I like to set aside a decent amount of time to deep condition my hair.  One Sunday afternoon I was studying for finals when I thought hey, this is the perfect time to try it out.  I searched for reviews/instructions but only found a handful of YouTube tutorials and a Yahoo Answers thread called "Coconut oil won't rinse out of my hair PLEASE HELP?" That should have been my first warning.  Also, this product is not oil but rather a balm, another detail I shouldn't have ignored.  After having a brief moment of "should I or shouldn't I" I went for it, thinking what's the worst that can happen?  I'll tell you exactly how the worst can happen.  I took a few scoops from the tub, massaged it into my hair, let it sit for about 30 minutes and rinsed.  Seven times.  Seven times I lathered and rinsed my hair hoping to get this product out and even then I still had oily roots and limp hair.  My scalp was BURNING after the fifth attempt but there was still product in it so I kept rinsing.  I wouldn't have rushed but I had class and work the next day and didn't want to have greasy hair.  When I was as close to clean as I could get my hair was completely unmanageable.





After digging around online I found out that it's mainly used it to style/set their curls, not as a deep conditioner.  However, because it has petroleum in it I decided not to let it go to waste and instead I'm using it as a nighttime moisturizer for my legs and feet.  And unless I find myself unable to give up how good it smells or how soft it makes my skin I probably won't buy it again.  I would also suggest buying it from somewhere else if you were interested in purchasing it.  I was able to find the same sized tub online for about half of what I paid at UO.

Sunday, May 11, 2014

First Trip to Sephora+Too Faced Boudoir Eyes Palette

Okay so about a month ago I had my first Sephora experience.  And it was amazing.  I basically circled each little brand island like a vulture because clearly one time around is never enough.  And as a sucker for great packaging, I couldn't help but swoon over Benefit, Too Faced and Urban Decay.  I could have easily spent three hours swatching eye shadows and lipsticks but I had a paper to write when I got home so I prioritized.

I only purchased one thing, the Boudoir Eyes Soft and Sexy Eye Shadow collection palette by Too Faced.  I'm a little late getting on the Boudoir Eyes glamour train as this palette is from their Spring 2013 line.  I have a habit of buying excessive amounts of makeup at one time and then take forever to use it.  And I kind of avoid using new makeup right away because it looks so clean and pretty.  I basically open the box, stare at it, think about how pretty it is and then put it away.  Terrible I know.  And being that this is my first time a Sephora, I figured I better take it slow.  

But I do have my eye on some things to pick up the next time I go.  I really want to try Benefit's Lollitint, which is an orchid colored cheek and lip tint.  I've never tried using tints before so I'm looking forward to that.  And Stila's Magnificent Metals Foil Finish Eye Shadow in Comex Copper because ever since I saw Emma Watson's flawless gold foil eye make up at the Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows premier, I've wanted to try my own version of the look.  And of course Urban Decay's coveted Naked 3 palette.  I've really been into reds and rose golds lately so I almost bought it but they were sold out of it when I stopped in.

Anyways, I'm really excited to try out the palette.  There are three rows of three gorgeous colors that are categorized to help you achieve the perfect daytime, classic and fashion looks.  It also comes with a "How-To Glamour Guide" to show you where to place colors for each look.  The palette includes five new shades-Fuzzy Handcuffs, Voulez-Vous, Sugar Walls, Garter Belt and French Tickler.







Daytime:
In The Buff- Satin white
Fuzzy Handcuffs- Matte taupe
Voulez-vous- Dark eggplant shimmer

Classic:
Satin Sheets- Pink/gold shimmer
Sugar Walls- Mauve shimmer
Garter Belt- Brown matte

Fashion:
Birthday Suit- Taupe shimmer
Lap Dance- Purple shimmer
French Tickler-black shadow with gold glitter

And the packaging.  Who wouldn't fall in love with the mattress-themed tin palette?  It's very sturdy and has magnetic closure so I haven't had a problem with it staying shut.


I'm beyond excited to expand both my beauty collection and product knowledge and can't wait to share it all with you!  xx