Thursday, March 23, 2023

5 Instagram-Inspired Long Sleeve Rash Guard Outfits for Your Beach and Swimming Needs


Rash guards are a must-have for anyone who loves spending time at the beach or by the pool.

If you're new to the world of water sports and beach activities, you may be wondering what exactly a rash guard is. Simply put, a rash guard is a type of athletic shirt designed to be worn in and around water. It's made from a lightweight, quick-drying material that provides a barrier between your skin and the sun, sand, and surf. The snug fit and long sleeves of a rash guard offer both protection and mobility, making it a popular choice for swimmers, surfers, and other water enthusiasts.


Not only do they protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun, but they also make a stylish statement. After all, rash guards are cuter than a sunburn! In this article, we'll explore five Instagram-inspired ways to style your long sleeve rash guards for the ultimate beach day. From vibrant prints to classic cuts, there's a rash guard look for everyone. What are you waiting for? Let's dive in and explore the possibilities of incorporating style and functionality for the summer.

1. The Classic Black


A black rash guard is a versatile and timeless piece that goes well with any beach or swimming outfit. Pair it with a bright-colored bikini, or wear it alone with black bikini bottoms. The sleek and straightforward design of the black rash guard will make you look effortlessly chic.


2. The Fun and Flirty Floral


Opt for a floral long-sleeve rash guard if you want to add a pop of color and pattern to your beach or swimming outfit. The colorful and feminine print will make you stand out on the beach while protecting you from the sun. Pair it with a solid-colored bikini or matching floral bottoms for a cohesive and put-together look.


3. The Sporty Stripes



Wear a striped long-sleeve rash guard for a more athletic and sporty look. The bold and graphic pattern will give you an instant edge and elevate your beach or swimming outfit. Pair it with high-waisted bikini bottoms or athletic shorts for a complete and functional look.


4. The Boho Tie-Dye


Go for a tie-dye long-sleeve rash guard to channel your inner bohemian goddess. The colorful and whimsical pattern will make you look carefree and effortless. Pair it with flowy beach pants or a maxi skirt for a boho-chic look perfect for a beach day.


5. The Edgy Cut-Out


Wear a cut-out long-sleeve rash guard for a more daring and edgy look. The unique and trendy design will make you stand out on the beach while protecting you from the sun. Pair it with a strap or high-waisted bikini bottoms for a bold and fearless look.

No matter what style or pattern you choose, a long sleeve rash guard is a versatile and practical piece that will make you look fashion-forward and stylish on the beach or in the water.

Remember always to prioritize sun safety and wear your rash guard with pride. Happy beach season and swimming!


    

A collaboration with Dear-Lover

Sunday, March 19, 2023

Mother Raw Organic Roasted Garlic Caesar Salad Dressing Review


I don't remember the last time I drooled so much! Lol πŸ˜† 🀀

It's been decades since I've enjoyed a Caesar salad. I used to eat them all the time until I discovered that Caesar dressing contained anchovies so I never had one again... until now.

I was trying to choose which salad dressing I wanted to try by Mother Raw. Once I saw they had Caesar dressing as well as roasted garlic caesar, I read the ingredients and to my delight, anchovies were not listed! I immediately came home with the roasted garlic Caesar because I love garlic, so more is always better. I made the best caesar salad ever with this dressing. It's quite garlicky and that was the first thing I tasted once I took a bite of my anchovy-free caesar salad. The dressing was quite thin which made it easy to coat every part of my salad.

I haven't drooled so much in a long time and I am looking forward to many more years of Caesar salads now that I've discovered this delicious dressing and bonus- it will certainly get me eating more veggies! I'm drooling as I type this just thinking about how yummy it is. I think I just want to drink the whole bottle πŸ˜† The fact that it's all organic and full of healthy ingredients is just the icing on the cake. I plan on trying other flavours from this brand as well. 

Update: I have already purchased 2 more of these dressings in this flavour as I definitely don't want to run out! Still plan on trying other flavours as well. 

Mother Raw's Products are:
  • DAIRY-FREE
  • NUT-FREE
  • NOTHING ARTIFICIAL
  • EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL
  • REFRIGERATED
  • GLUTEN-FREE
  • SOY & CANOLA FREE
  • COLD BLENDED

Learn more about Mother Raw and all their fabulous dressings at motherraw.com


                                                                


 Thank you @socialnature @motherraw πŸƒ πŸ₯°πŸ’• for the free sample!! #freesample 

Monday, March 13, 2023

Elf Tan Lines Putty Bronzer Review + A Dupe

Elf's Putty Bronzer in Tan Lines


I've heard so much about Elf's Putty Bronzer and it's at such an affordable price that I just had to try it for myself, especially since I'm a major bronzer junkie and I want to try ALL the bronzers! I purchased mine on Amazon for $8 CAD.

It's quite a small size (.35oz) but the pan does accommodate my face brushes and I do appreciate that it takes up little space. 

My skin tone is fairly light and neutral in tone, leaning warmer. The shade, Tan Lines, is more on the warm side but quite sheer. I found it difficult to get the bronzer to show up on my skin, perhaps I need a shade darker. I also found it difficult to pick up the product with any of my makeup brushes, including synthetic ones. It also did not apply well with my fingers. I found the formula a bit on the greasy side. I know it contains some lovely ingredients but the formula seems very sheer and thin to me.

In this post, I am comparing it to my other cream bronzer by Wet N Wild which is in a convenient stick formula and has a similar tone.

                               
Left: Elf Tan Lines/ Right: Wet n Wild Oaks on You


Above: Wet n Wild Oak's On You

Swatches of Elf and Wet n Wild's bronzers are shown below. Left: Wet n Wild Oaks on You, Right: Elf's Putty Bronzer in Tan Lines

As you can see, Wet n Wild Oaks on You is much more pigmented but has a very similar tone to Elf's Tan Lines.

Left: Wet n Wild Oaks on You/ Right: Elf's Putty Bronzer Tan Lines

I find the Wet n Wild bronzer applies MUCH more easily and has much more pigment to it. I can just swipe the Wet n Wild bronzer onto my skin and it blends out easily. It also has much more staying power as the formula is a bit dryer and not "greasy" like Elf's Putty Bronzer.

I realize that Elf has a brush that is meant to be used with their cream/putty products but I really don't want to have to purchase a new brush just for this bronzer. Perhaps it would work better with Elf's brush. 


I am disappointed with Elf's Putty Bronzer in Tan Lines. Perhaps I would do better with a darker shade from this line or maybe the formula is just not for me. I find it too light, too sheer, too difficult to pick up with any of my brushes, and too difficult to apply. I also find the formula sort of greasy and therefore the staying power is not great. I love a lot of Elf's products, just not this one. If you have a very fair skin tone or prefer very light bronzers, you may like this one. 

If you are looking for an affordable cream bronzer, I would definitely recommend Wet n Wiild's MegaGlo Makeup Stick over Elf's Putty Bronzer. Wet n Wild's Bronzer comes in a very convenient stick formula, it's easy to work with, has great staying power, and is very affordable at only $4.49 USD. It also comes in several other shades. I also love the MegaGlo Makeup Stick cream blushes by Wet n Wild, especially the shade Peach Bums, it's an all-time favourite of mine (read more about this blush and see swatches here).

                                                           

This post contains affiliate links. Thank you for your support!

Sunday, March 5, 2023

Keys Soulcare Truly Becoming Multi-Benefit Peptide Serum Review


Keys Soulcare Truly Becoming Multi-Benefit Peptide Serum landed on my desk recently and I was so excited as I had heard about this new brand, Keys Soulcare, that was created by Alicia Keys. Plus, I have a thing for all things skincare, peptides, and multi-benefit products! I was already impressed when I read that Alicia and her team work with board-certified dermatologists to create clean, safe, and effective products that are cruelty-free and free of harmful chemicals.
 
The Truly Becoming Multi-Benefit Peptide Serum is formulated with skin-nourishing ingredients like Marine Bamboo for fine lines and wrinkles, Poly-peptide Complex to firm and improve skin tone, as well as Multi-Weight Hyaluronic Acid for deep hydration. The formula targets dryness, lines, wrinkles, and dullness while helping improve overall tone and texture. 

I've really been enjoying using this serum for the last few weeks and I'm very happy with my results so far. I have been using it AM and PM and my aging skin is definitely looking plumper and more hydrated. What really took me by surprise is that my rough and bumpy forehead has become as smooth as a baby's bottom. 

I only need 2 pumps to cover my face and neck. I apply it to damp skin before my other skincare products and moisturizers. The lightweight,  fragrance-free formula immediately hydrates and soothes my skin.  It absorbs quickly and isn't greasy or sticky at all. My skin is left feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated.



ABOUT
This clinically proven, rejuvenating facial serum provides immediate hydration, plumps the look of skin, and visibly improves fine lines and wrinkles—both instantly and over time.


SKIN TYPES: All Skin Types

DERMATOLOGIST-DEVELOPED, CLEAN SKINCARE:
  • Visibly improves fine lines and wrinkles
  • Hydrates and plumps the look of skin
  • Lightweight formula
  • Targets dryness and dullness
  • Helps improve overall tone and texture

SKIN-NOURISHING INGREDIENTS:
  • Marine Bamboo: Highly effective seaweed extract that helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines.
  • Poly-Peptide Complex: Potent amino acid formulation that helps to visibly firm and improve skin tone.
  • Multi-Weight Hyaluronic Acid: A powerful hydrator in high and low molecular weights that keeps skin deeply hydrated for a plump, smooth look.

SKINCARE BENEFIT: Rejuvenates skin by visibly improving fine lines and wrinkles.

Keys Soulcare is Fair Trade, Leaping Bunny and PETA certified! All of their product offerings are formulated with potent yet gentle ingredients, and without 1,680 substances restricted by the FDA and European Union Cosmetics Regulation Guidelines:

NO PARABENS
NO PHTHALATES
NO SULFATES
NO FORMALDEHYDE
NO NONYLPHENOL ETHOXYLATES
NO TRICLOSAN
NO TRICLOCARBAN
NO TOLUENE
NO COAL TAR
NO LEAD
NO MERCURY
NO ACRYLAMIDE
NO HYDROQUINONE

I am impressed after using this serum and definitely want to try more products from this brand. I love that they are created alongside dermatologists, are free of harmful chemicals, are cruelty-free, and are a truly clean beauty brand. There is just so much to love about this brand. Check them out and I hope you'll love them, too! 

                                                               

Product was kindly gifted  πŸ’– #freeproduct #trywithtopbox #topbox 

Monday, February 27, 2023

Ilia Makeup Set | Sephora Birthday Gift 2023


Every year, Sephora offers their Insiders and VIB customers a free Birthday gift for their birthday. Each year there is a new selection of free, sample-size products to choose from. Anyone can become a Sephora Insider and it's free to join. You become a VIB member once you've spent a specific amount with Sephora per year.

This year, there are a total of 6 Birthday gifts to choose from and all but one of those are available to all Sephora Insiders.

This year's choices are:

1. Ilia Makeup set with Multi-Stick and Mascara 
2. Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow set featured in this post
3. Dior Fragrance set
4. Ouai hair sample set
5. 250 Bonus Points (can be redeemed for free bonus point products which change frequently)
6. Farmacy Skincare set - for VIB members only 

View and learn more about these options on Sephora.com.

My Mother was kind enough to let me have her birthday gift this year so I chose this Ilia set as I've been very curious about this brand.



About this gift:

Ilia Makeup Birthday Gift Set featuring Limitless Lash Mascara in shade After Midnight (Black) and Multi-Stick in shade At Last (Mauve Rose)

- Limitless Lash Mascara in shade After Midnight (Black): A clean thoughtfully formulated, award-winning, cult-favorite mascara that lifts, lengthens, curls, and separates lashes without flaking or smudging.

- Multi-Stick in shade At Last (Mauve Rose): An award-winning, buildable wash of color for cheeks and lips to instantly wake up skin. The twist-up stick makes for easy application on the go.

This reward includes:

- Limitless Lash Mascara in shade After Midnight (Black): 0.1 oz./ 3g

- Multi-Stick in shade At Last (Mauve Rose): 0.08 oz/ 2.5g




The multi stick is a gorgeous shade that should suit many skin tones. It comes in a twist up stick which makes it very easy to apply. It blends out easily to give the skin a naturally flushed look and it is buildable. The lasting time is good but similar to many other stick/cream blushes on the market. I like to apply a light dusting of setting powder over top of it to help it last longer. I did try it on my lips and eyes and didn't really like it on my eyes, and although it looks pretty on my lips, I just prefer to use it as a blush. But it's nice to have the options to use it as you wish.

I would consider purchasing the full-size mainly because they nailed this shade, in my opinion. It would also be a great choice if you are looking for a cream blush/multi stick from a clean beauty brand.


Photos taken in natural daylight with no filters



Here is the blush blended out.


It's quite a small amount of product but enough to use for a while so you can determine if you would want to purchase the full-size product.


The mascara comes with a rubber type applicator. I find that works well at adding length to my lashes but not as much in terms of volume. I personally like very full lashes as well as length. However, it does apply evenly and has a nice clean look as it is doesn't get clumpy. I also like that it's very easy to remove with just water, so I don't lose a bunch of lashes trying to get it off at the end of the day. I didn't have any flaking but found it could smudge when I got up after watching TV while laying down for a few hours, but this can happen with many mascaras. If you have a tendency towards watery eyes, this may not be a good choice for you.

I would rate the mascara as good but average. I have others that I prefer but this could be a good choice if you are looking for length from a clean beauty brand.

Details on the free Birthday Gift program from Sephora:

*Beauty Insiders can redeem one birthday gift per year in Sephora US and Canada stores, on sephora.com and sephora.ca, in Sephora at Kohl’s stores, and on kohls.com, while supplies last. Selection may vary. A birthday gift of 250 points is available in Sephora US and Canada stores, on sephora.com and sephora.ca only. Merchandise purchase required for online redemption. Online-exclusive birthday gifts are redeemable by VIB and Rouge clients only and are not available on kohls.com. Redeem two weeks before or after your birthday or any time during your birthday month.

With all of the choices that Sephora is offering, you really can't go wrong with any of them. We also loved the Glow Recipe Birthday Gift reviewed here.

                                                                


Monday, February 20, 2023

RANKED: TikTok’s Biggest Emerging Beauty Trends For 2023

When it comes to TikTok, we all know that the app is often at the forefront of viral trends. That’s why Beauty Daily by Clarins crunched the data, and analysed a number of hashtags across up and coming beauty trends to find out which 2023 forecasts are growing the fastest on the app. 

Here are TikTok’s Most Viewed Emerging Beauty Trends:

#1 Coquette Beauty - 1.7 Billion Views

Source: SKAI JACKSON/JC OLIVERA/GETTY IMAGES

Coquette beauty is officially the leading emerging beauty trend of 2023. Defined by pinks, Lana Del Rey style eyeliner, doe eyes and rosy cheeks - this trend is the epitome of hyper-feminine glamour.

#2 Micro Beauty -  1.1 Billion Views

Source: ZoΓ« Kravitz/GETTY IMAGES

Going short is in. From micro bangs, to short manicures and bobs - we’re saying goodbye to long luscious locks and stiletto nails in 2023. With short nail Pinterest searches for this Valentine's day alone increasing +2,500% from last year - the trend is also picking up on TikTok. 

#3 90’s Grunge Makeup -  974 Million Views 

Source: DANIELE VENTURELLIG/ETTY IMAGES

Nostalgic 90’s grunge makeup is making a resurgence, especially after the Netflix show Wednesday. Think smudged eyeliner, smokey eyes and nude lips. 

#4 Budget Beauty - 920 Million Views

Source: @slashedbeauty on TikTok

With the rising cost of living, TikTok users are seeking affordable beauty alternatives. From drugstore beauty finds to dupes, and even refillable beauty - shoppers are looking for ways to save as much as they can this year. 

#5 Skincycling - 313 Million Views

Source: @drwhitneybowe on TikTok

This new trend is defined by not applying the same skincare products, and allowing your skin to have “rest days”. Coined by dermatologist Whitney Bowe, MD, a New York City–based board-certified dermatologist - this method allows active ingredients time to work and alternate products strategically for the best results. 

#6 Notox - 262 Million  Views 

Source: Pixabay

In 2023, we’re going to see a move away from botox towards skin firming treatments that provide similar results without injections. From LED face masks, to facial toning devices - this emerging trend is gaining traction on TikTok. 

#7 Skinstreaming - 95 Million Views 

Source: Pixabay

‘Skinstreaming’ is a new term coined for skin minimalism. As the economy plummets and costs rise, beauty addicts are scaling back their beauty routines. Looking at hashtags such as #minimalistskincare and #basicskincareroutine - this skin trend is gaining momentum on the app. 

#8 Ugly Beauty - 7 Million Views 


Source: DOJA CAT/GETTY IMAGES

Whilst this isn’t one to the most prominent emerging trends on the list at the moment, it’s definitely one to watch. Defined by messy makeup, unconventional ‘unpretty’ beauty birthed by Gen-Z’s alliance with dressing for the female gaze (as opposed to the male gaze). With the hashtag ‘femalegaze’ garnering 466.8M views, it's only a matter of time before it starts to transcend into our makeup. 

#9 Skinflooding - 2.7 Million Views 

Source: Pixabay 

‘Skinflooding’ is a new simple hack to add a deeper level of moisture to the skin. Instead of drying your face after cleansing, you apply your products onto damp skin for extra hydration. Hydrating mist can also be used in between steps to lock in even more moisture. 


About Beauty Daily by Clarins:

Beauty Daily by Clarins is a  beauty hub and wellness destination where you can come to escape the stresses of everyday life, be empowered with knowledge, and learn a trick – or ten – along the way.

You can seek trustworthy, insider tips from the experts at Clarins, supported by a stellar line-up of contributing dermatologists, Dr’s, nutritionists, make-up artists, and health gurus to help you with their scientifically proven, unbiased advice.

Sarah Joan Ross, Editor

Sarah has over 20 years of experience in the beauty and wellness industry, writing for ELLE, Marie Claire, GRAZIA, InStyle and Harper’s Bazaar. She’s a happy hoarder of fragrances, has tested zillions of products and believes the power of finding a good one can be life changing.

About Clarins  

Clarins was founded in 1954 by Jacques Courtin-Clarins with two principles in mind: listening to people’s needs, and a love of nature. People, to understand their needs and create beautiful solutions. Nature, because it inspires our research, sparks innovation, and provides plant-based ingredients that power the quality and efficacy of our formulas. 

These are the same principles that guide us today. They have been passed down from generation to generation, making Clarins an environmentally friendly company, committed and driven by a long-term vision to do more, do better, and enjoy doing so. 

https://www.clarins.co.uk/ 

https://beautydaily.clarins.co.uk/



#clarins

Sunday, February 5, 2023

Dove Men + Care Hydrating Clean Comfort Body and Face Wash


Dove Men + Care Hydrating Clean Comfort Body and Face Wash has such a fabulous fresh scent that can be used by both men and women. My guy loves it and I do as well. 

My boyfriend can be very stinky when he comes home from work. This body wash combats the stink and he smells so fresh and clean after using it! The fresh scent lingers on his body even after he's showered. 

He also loves that it's a multi purpose product and he can use it on his face and body as he cannot be bothered with a separate face and body wash. It lathers up really well and leaves skin so soft, clean, and hydrated. I have personally been using Dove body products for over 30 years because they are the best and recommended by my dermatologist. πŸ’―

About:
This body wash is specifically designed for men’s skin by the #1 dermatologist recommended men’s brand since 2013. Typical soap for men strips away oil and other essential skin components, leaving you with dry, flaky, and irritated skin. Dove Men+Care is a mild cleanser with plant-based moisturizers and skin-strengthening nutrients to help rebuild skin and skin proteins. Dove Men+Care Body and Face Wash is an easy-to-rinse, hydrating body wash that is clinically proven to fight dry skin better than a regular men’s body soap or shower gel. It is also gentle enough to use as a face wash for men. Clean Comfort features a fresh, crisp scent that will leave you feeling refreshed long after you shower.


You can never go wrong with Dove body products. The price is right and you really can't get much better than Dove when it comes to body care. It's simple yet effective πŸ‘Œ 

 #freeproduct 



Free sample #trywithtopbox #dove #affiliate links
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