Beauty

Product Review: Skin+Pharmacy’s Extended Moisture Body Lotion

July 25, 2016

Suffer from dry skin? I may have found the solution to your moisture-zapped woes.

I’ve always had super dry skin. No matter how much oil or lotions I slathered on, somehow, some way, the sheen would be short-lived. From fancy creams to expensive emollients, I’ve used a variety of products in hopes of finding relief. Sure, some fared better than others, but none have been as effective as Skin + Pharmacy’s Advanced Skin Therapy Extended Moisture Body Lotion. Yep, a drugstore brand has been my best discovery.

Skin+Pharmacy Advanced Skin Therapy Extended Moisture Body Lotion, available here, $14

And it’s not your typical lotion. It’s infused with coconut oil and an apple-derived fruit extract to help bind water to skin, allowing for optimal absorption. Plus, it features a moisture-restoring technology that keeps my skin hydrated ALL day long.

To top it off, it’s fragrance free and never greasy. I’ve tried the entire line and my other favorite product is the Healing Gel, which is excellent for restoring, irritated areas. I like to use it on my calloused heels—instantly making them super soft and supple.

Skin+Pharmacy Advanced Skin Therapy Healing Gel available here, $10

Exclusively sold at CVS drugstores, the Skin + Pharmacy Advanced Skin Therapy line is the crème of the crop. Give it go, your skin will thank you.

What’s your favorite skin moisturizer?

A Treat for Your Tresses: OGX’s + Quenching Coconut Curls Styling Milk

July 6, 2016

Over the years, I’ve tried countless hair concoctions that read more like a dessert menu than a product for your strands. From papaya-infused shampoos to milk & honey conditioners, I’ve tested a ton of products aimed at making my (and my daughter’s) natural hair more moisturized, healthier and of course—smelling heavenly.

Once in a while, the sweetly named products will actually deliver results beyond their charming packaging and sweet aromas. Enter Organix Quenching Plus Coconut Curls Styling Milk. This creamy, coconut-enriched hair dress is one of the best moisturizers I’ve ever used. Aside from the downright delightful scent, it successfully hydrates my daughter’s fine (read: easily tangled!) coils, leaving them soft, shiny and defined.

The coconut oil, sweet honey and citrus oils coat her curls without weighing them down or creating that dreaded crunch. I’ve been using it for only 3 weeks and I’m nearly out! Admittedly, I apply it liberally and am mesmerized by the smell so I tend to over use it.

If you’re looking for a product that performs and won’t break the bank, check out this moisturizer. Trust me, after one use you’ll be obsessed too!

OGX + Quenching Coconut Curls Frizz-Defying Curl Styling Milk available here, $5.79

Have you ever tried this brand? If so, what’s been your experience and/or your favorite product?

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Product Review: Nubian Heritage African Black Soap

June 30, 2016

No one likes pimples.

Especially when you’re 36 and well past your acne-ridden teenage years. Unfortunately for me, those pesky bumps are back and have been wreaking havoc on my skin for weeks. Pinpointing the culprit has been elusive, but my guess is that it’s hormone based. Until I can get to the root of my flare-ups, I’ve been using The Vitamin Shoppe’s Nubian Heritage African Black Soap as a facial cleanser to keep the blemishes at bay.

Like many BGs, I’d heard about this special soap for years—but, for some reason, I’d never tried it. Boy, am I glad I finally did! Unlike most soap, this one deep cleanses and is packed with natural ingredients that slough away off dead skin cells without the dreaded drying effect. Blended with 100% shea butter, it lathers into a refreshing scent that leaves skin super moisturized and smooth. After the first use my face immediately looked more healthy and radiant.

Nubian Heritage African Black Soap available here, $4

Oats, Vitamin E, plantain peel extract, and papaya enzymes are just a few of the other ingredients mixed into the soap making it a must-have for those who swear by all-natural products.

Although I’m not completely pimple-free, I have seen a vast improvement in my skin’s appearance since giving this soap a go.

If you’re suffering from mild acne, definitely give African Black Soap a try — it doesn’t prevent breakouts, but it certainly keeps skin moisturized and diminishes the appearance of blemishes giving me a clearer complexion.

Do you suffer from occasional blemishes or have you been blessed with flawless skin?

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Get The Look: ‘Eclipse’ Danai Gurira’s Makeup at the Tony Awards

June 13, 2016

Last night’s Tony Awards was a special night for BGs.

Danai Gurira the actress who penned the Broadway hit, “Eclipse” and the only female writer to be nominated in the best play category, stunned on the red carpet.

Her gorgeous crown of natural curls exuded regal elegance, while her jewel-tone yellow gown complimented her rich, luminous skin — but it was her flawless makeup that turned heads.

IT Cosmetics‘ makeup artist, Kim Bower created a sultry, yet seasonal look that made the playwright smolder. She used Brow Power and Build-a-Brow to groom her bold brows, which in turn highlighted her enviable cheekbones. While her brows set the stage, Bower opted for a classic smokey eye, with dark, defined lids using Liner Lid and the Naturally Pretty Palette. To take her lashes to new lengths, she coated them with Superhero mascara.

Her smokey eye paired surprisingly well with the bright pop of color on the lips. The pink provided a summerly look that wasn’t overpowering, but eye-catching. A few strokes of Radiance Ombre Blush on the cheeks and Gurira was red carpet ready!

Check out the IT Cosmetics used on Gurira so you can re-create this award-winning look!:

IT Cosmetics Brow Power available here, $24

IT Cosmetics Build-A-Brow available here, $24

IT Cosmetics Liner Love available here, $24

IT Cosmetics Naturally Pretty Palette Volume 2: The Romantics available here, $42

IT Cosmetics Superhero Mascara available here, $24

IT Cosmetics CC+® Radiance Ombre Blush available here, $24

IT Cosmetics Vitality Lip Flush Butter Gloss in Ruby Slippers available here, $24

Did you watch the Tony Awards? Did you like Gurira’s look?

Category: Beauty, Beauty News | 1 Comment

GIVEAWAY: Take the Nivea Lip Care Challenge

April 21, 2016

When Nivea asked if I wanted to take their Lip Care Challenge, I was more than game!

Since I’m a fan of the moisture-depleting matte lipstick trend, my lips were in need of some hydrating TLC.

Nivea is sold in most mass retailers. Click here to find where you can purchase.

Over the course of five days, I ditched my favorite, yet drying lipsticks and treated my lips to Nivea’s latest offerings. Before I started the challenge, I was instantly impressed by the clean and simple packaging. The frosted pastel-hued tubes were refreshing and unlike other lip treatments. I especially loved that it wasn’t wrapped in a cheaply adhered plastic label that’s found on similar products. Again, the look and feel of the tubes immediately won me over.

MONDAY: Nivea’s Original Moisture Care

On the first day, I can’t lie; I went through a bit of a withdrawal from that barely-there feel that accompanies most matte finishes. Forgoing my go-to lippies was an adjustment, but a welcomed one. By the end of the day I didn’t mind having a bit of lubrication on my lips.

TUESDAY: Nivea Milk & Honey

Next up was the Milk & Honey option. After using the original one the day prior, I was thrilled to try this sweet and soothing balm. It didn’t create that unsightly white residue that creeps into the corners of your mouth like other lip treatments. Plus, it had a nice hint of honey fragrance that didn’t smell artificial.

WEDNESDAY: Smoothness

On Hump Day I hit a slump and needed my color fix. I decided to only wear it in the evening once I got home and removed my makeup. It lived up to its name and replenished the zapped moisture of the day and made my lips feel extra smooth.

THURSDAY: Mint & Minerals

The minty flavor gave my pucker a fleeting, tingly boost. It didn’t have an overpowering menthol effect that can ruin some of good balms. It was a nice change.

FRIDAY: Shimmer

What better day than Friday to add a bit of shimmer? After having such a favorable week with all of the lip treatments, I was excited to try the final one. The subtle shimmer was just what I needed to finish out the week. It glided on effortlessly and left my lips kissably soft.

Overall, Nivea’s Lip Care treatments have earned a permanent spot in my makeup bag. The cute tube and ultra-moisturizing benefits will turn anyone into a balm fan. Plus, none of these five made my lips feel unbearably greasy or gross. Although the challenge is over, I’ll continue to keep my lips hydrated and chapped free!

**GIVEAWAY: Want to take the Nivea Lip Care Challenge? If so, you can win all five lip care treatments. Simply leave a comment below or Tweet me @BrownGirlGumbo telling me your lip care routine. A winner will be randomly selected and notified via email on Thursday, May 5th. This contest is only open to U.S. residents.

Category: Beauty, Beauty News, Giveaway | 5 Comments

Product Review: Dove’s New Dry Oil Moisture Body Wash

April 18, 2016

I’ve suffered from dry skin my entire life. When I tried Dove’s new Dry Oil Moisture Body Wash, my parched skin had finally been quenched.

Using Dove is nothing new for me—I’ve been a fan for years. But, this formula is like no other. The creamy wash is thick and rich, which means a little goes a long way. It lathers into a luxurious sudsy utopia that cleanses effortlessly while treating your senses to a pleasant, refreshing scent. While those things are boast-worthy, nothing tops the out-of-this-world hydration that this innovative body wash creates.

Dove Dry Oil Moisture Body Wash available here, $5.50

Infused with Moroccan Argan Oil, it seals in moisture leaving skin smooth and super soft. After using it, I almost forget to add lotion because it makes my skin feel so moisturized! Honestly, I probably don’t have to use it due to its dryness-preventing properties.

Trust me, if you suffer from dry skin, give this body wash a try—you will never use your old one again!

Do you have super dry skin? If so, what do you use to combat it?

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5 Must-Have Matte Lipsticks for Spring

April 6, 2016

It’s no secret that matte lipsticks and stains are makeup bag must-haves. For the past several seasons, shiny, luminous lips have taken a backseat to the non-glossy trend.

From cool corals to deep burgundies, richly pigmented puckers are all the rage for spring. With popular beauty bloggers and reality TV stars partnering with major brands to create their own shades and kits, the matte craze shows no signs of slowing down.

mac-instigator-lipstick-Karla-Pope-Borders

Me wearing MAC Cosmetics matte lipstick in “Instigator.”

Admittedly, I used to swear by a pinkish brown gloss—but, I have jumped on this non-sticky beauty bandwagon with no shame. I give myself a pass since I’m simply revisiting my high school days when I rocked a matte reddish brick-colored Revlon lippie religiously!

Just like in fashion, beauty trends come and go. I’m sure before it’s all said and done, glossy lips will make a comeback. Until then, you’ll find me wearing some of these awesome matte finds:

AJ Crimson S+M Sultry and Matte Lipstick in “Role Play” available here, $18.50. With the proper layering, this build able reddish orange shade can take you from day to night in a matter of seconds.

Colourpop Matte Lipstick in “StingRay,” available here, $6. This cool-toned mauve brown lip color was created by makeup maven and beauty blogger, @ItsMyRayeRaye.

Avon Perfectly Matte Lipstick in “Red Supreme” available here, $9. I’ve tried countless matte lippies and this iconic brand’s new offering is a testament to its reputation. It goes on smoothly and doesn’t leave lips dry or cracked. Plus, it has a variety of complementary shades for us BGs.

MAC Cosmetics Matte Lipstick in “Instigator” available here, $17. This deep plum hue is a hit when worn with a contrasting color such as a soft pastel or blush-toned outfit.

MUA Liquid Lipstick in “Hot Pink” is exclusively sold at CVS drugstores nationwide and available here, $9. This show-stopping shade stays put while brilliantly bringing attention to your lips.

Are you team #matte or team #gloss? What’s your preferred finish for spring?

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