Before I buy a new product, whether it be makeup or skincare or shampoo, I check out YouTube for favorites videos to see what works and what doesn't.  Tutorials are a very powerful thing in a women's world that helps us make decisions before we buy.   My goal is to start filming more videos using my favorite products as a review for those who may be in the market for something new.  First up, brows!

If you have requests for videos you would like to see, leave me a comment!

Tanning Spray  |  Brush  |  Lace Cami  |  Pajama Bottoms

The latest self tanning craze is the line Isle of Paradise.  It comes in an oil, spray, and mousse...each with three intensity options depending on the level of color you are looking for.  The Isle of Paradise line also has color correcting properties to keep your skin from looking orange.  Usage of the self tanner is different depending on which type you get.  I choose the spay, mostly because the oil was sold out and it seemed like a better option than the mousse.  To use the spray, start with clean, dry skin (I typically apply after my nightly shower).  Generously spray the product until skin is wet then buff into the skin until tacky.  The brand suggests using the mit that they sell, instead, I use a foundation makeup brush and it works great!  It may take longer using a brush but I have had no issues with application.  Then you simply wash your hands and let the product do the rest!  You'll wake up in the morning with a sun kissed glow :)

Tips/tricks I have learned:

1. Wear no show socks or an old pair of socks.  The spray will fall to the floor and get all over the bottom of your feet.  I wear the no show socks to keep the bottoms of my feet from getting dark.  
2. Apply over a non-carpet surface.  I apply in the bathroom for easy cleanup of the floor and counter.  Again, the spray will get everywhere (which is one downside of the product). 
3. If applying on the face, be sure to get in the hairline to avoid noticeable lines.
4. Let your arms dry straight - don't bend the elbows for about 30 minutes otherwise the product will wear off and be uneven.
5. For tan hands, apply product evenly on hands and fingers first.  Continue applying product on body.  When finished, wash hands thoroughly.  This will give your hands color without being too intense.

It's been a month since my last Formulate update and using a new formula.  To recap, Formulate ​creates one-of-a-kind, personalized hair care products based on a person's specific hair care needs.  Formulate shampoo and conditioner was uniquely made according to my current hair type and my hair goals.  I took a quiz with Formulate to determine the exact ingredients needed to achieve perfect hair.  You can watch me take the quiz over on the "Formulate" highlight on my Instagram stories!

The new formula I have been using includes a clear shampoo which was a vital request after the first formula I received.   Other aspects of the shampoo are still the same, the scent, lather, easy to rinse.  I also increased how often I wash my hair from once a week to twice a week to maximize the results.  Once this current Formulate duo is finished, I will be taking my final progress photos, stay tuned! 

​GIVEAWAY!!!
Enter the giveaway for a chance to win your own personalized set of Formulate shampoo and conditioner that's shipped directly to you, completely FREE.  Giveaway ends on February 28th

Valentine's Day is only a couple weeks away!  I'm already thinking about where to make reservations,
what to wear, gifts for the hubby, and how I'll do my makeup.  Today, I wanted to share some of my
favorite beauty products for the ultimate Valentine's Day glam!

False Lashes:  I love Flutter lashes in Intoxicating!  They are sexy, voluminous, and really make a statement.
For more subtle, yet lengthy lashes, opt for Luxe Opulent, which you can find at Ulta.

Eyeshadow:  Glitter on the lid looks fabulous with red and pink.  I have all of the Morphe by Jaclyn Hill palettes and there are some great glitter options.  The original Morphe X Jaclyn Hill has different shades of glitter that I highly recommend.  Just apply glitter all over the lid for an easy way to glam.

Highlighter:  If you have glitter on the eyes, highlighter on the cheekbones is a must!  Hourglass Luminous Light is the perfect highlight for any occasion.  It literally makes you look like you are glowing from within.  It gives a  professional finish to your makeup look.

Lipstick:  There are two options for Valentine's, red or pink.  For red, I have used Wet n Wild Hot Red for years and is what I am wearing in the photo.  It is inexpensive, creamy, moisturizing, full coverage red without being too matte.  For pink, I opt for a subtle shade like Maybelline Born With It. 

What type of makeup look do you go for on Valentine's Day?
If you need more inspiration, check out Jaclyn Hill on YouTube!  She has some great Valentine's Day tutorials.