Sephora Birthday Gift 2023 | Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow

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.

Choosing my freebie is always a tough choice for me because the samples are all so tempting. Plus, I love skincare, makeup, haircare, and all things beauty!

I finally settled on the Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow set as the value seemed good and I have heard great things about their products but haven't tried them before.

I picked up my free Birthday Gift up in store and as usual, no purchase was required. If you want to order your free Birthday gift online, a purchase will be required, although there is no minimum purchase and shipping is free right now with no minimum purchase. 

About Glow Recipe Birthday Gift Set:

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Skincare Birthday Gift Set featuring Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops mini and Watermelon Glow Pore Tight Toner mini.

- Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops mini: A breakthrough, multiuse highlighting serum that hydrates and visibly reduces the look of hyperpigmentation for a dewy, reflective glow—without mica, glitter, or gray cast.

- Watermelon Glow Pore Tight Toner mini: A bestselling, gentle, PHA- and BHA-infused watermelon toner that hydrates skin and minimizes the appearance of pores.

This reward includes:

- Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops mini: 0.5 fl. oz./15 mL
- Watermelon Glow Pore Tight Toner mini: 0.84 fl. oz./ 25 mL

After using the Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow toner and serum (Dew Drops) all week, I am really happy that I chose this set. 

The Watermelon Glow Pore-tightening toner contains acids like PHA + AHA as well as hyaluronic acid and Cactus Water, Cucumber, Tea Tree & Hyaluronic Acid and other skin-loving ingredients to keep skin exfoliated and hydrated. I've found that it really diminished the appearance/ shrank my pores and leaves my skin feeling very clean but not dry or stripped. 

The Watermelon Glow Niacinimide Dew Drops contains skin-loving ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, moringa oil, and vitamins E and C, just to name a few. The serum is supposed to help with hyperpigmentation over time. I have melasma so I am always looking for a solution other than hydroquinone. Although this product provides some immediate benefits like hydration and a glow, it would definitely take a lot more time to see if it would help reduce or eliminate my melasma and dark spots. What I can say, is that this serum is more hydrating than I could have ever imagined- much needed during these cold months! And it definitely gives my skin long-lasting hydration as well as a beautiful youthful looking glow.

I have been using both products AM and PM and find they complement each other very well! My pores are more refined and my skin stays hydrated all day and night. I was concerned that the serum would make me breakout because of past experiences with serums that have a gel-like consistency, but I haven't experienced any breakouts at all with Glow Recipe.  I still use a moisturizer on top of the serum but I don't think it's necessary.  The toner and serum pair beautifully together for clear but hydrated and youthful-looking skin. I realize now that my skin really benefits from a toner like this one with gentle acids and I really need to incorporate one into my regular skincare routine.

I'm so glad that I got the opportunity to try these products out for free as I may not have tried them otherwise.  I like them enough that I would consider purchasing the full sizes in the future and the prices are not outrageous!

These products are free of Parabens, Mineral Oil, Sulfates, Phthalates, Drying Alcohols, Synthetic Dyes. And, they are Vegan. Cruelty-free.

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.

This post contains affiliate links.

Best Hair Products For Dry, Damaged, Brittle Hair | Wella Fusionplex Intense Repair

 

I've been plagued with difficult hair my entire life. My hair is fine, dry, frizzy, and damaged from bleach and heat tools. As I've gotten older, my hair has become even more difficult; the texture has changed, it's gone from dry to dryer, I've developed some greys, it has become very fragile, rough, and brittle. Thanks to my difficult hair, I'm always on the search for products that will improve the condition as well as the look and feel of my hair. 

Just when I felt like I had tried everything, I came across Wella Fusion (Fusionplex) Intense Repair Shampoo and Conditioner and decided to give them a try. I am so glad that I gave them a chance! After the first use, my hair was transformed! My dry, brittle hair felt soft, strong, and manageable. The breakage has been greatly reduced. I can honestly say that these are the best products that I've tried so far for my current hair type and issues. I don't usually have super-high expectations from just a shampoo and conditioner as I tend to expect more from masks, treatments, and leave-in products, but these products have changed my opinion on that.

Keep scrolling to learn more about these fabulous products.

Wella Professionals Fusion Intense Repair Shampoo For Damaged Hair, Hair Repair, Anti Hair Breakage, 8.4 oz / $25

Wella FUSIONPLEX Intense Repair Shampoo instantly helps to protect against breakage due to combing and mechanical damage. Formulated with EDDS, micronized lipids, and silk amino acids, this delicate shampoo leaves hair clean and strong.

FUSIONPLEX products are recommended for anyone who experiences damage from: 

• Mechanical and thermal influences e.g. combing, blow-drying, heat tools
• Chemical treatments e.g. lightening, coloring
• Environmental influences e.g. weathering, UV damage

How it works:

FUSIONPLEX products feature the Silksteel Fusion Program, a fusion of silk amino acids and micronized lipids. Inspired by spider silk, Silksteel Fusion penetrates down to the cortex and instantly recovers hair fiber at micro and macro levels while helping to prevent future hair breakage. Even the most damaged hair is left feeling renewed, smooth, elastic, and resilient against breakage.

Wella Professionals Fusion Intense Repair Conditioner For Damaged Hair, Hair Repair, Anti Hair Breakage, 6.7 oz / $25

FUSIONPLEX Intense Repair Conditioner instantly helps to protect against breakage due to combing and mechanical damage. Formulated with silk amino acids, this conditioner detangles hair leaving it smooth and strong.

FUSIONPLEX products are recommended for anyone who experiences damage from:

• Mechanical and thermal influences e.g. combing, blow-drying, heat tools
• Chemical treatments e.g. lightening, coloring
• Environmental influences e.g. weathering, UV damage

How it works:

FUSIONPLEX products feature the Silksteel Fusion Program, a fusion of silk amino acids and micronized lipids. Inspired by spider silk, Silksteel Fusion penetrates down to the cortex and instantly recovers hair fiber at micro and macro levels while helping to prevent future hair breakage. Even the most damaged hair is left feeling renewed.

  

Final Thoughts:

I am so impressed with my results from these products and how they have turned my dry, rough, aging, and brittle hair into hair that looks and feels soft and healthy like it used to! I'm also very happy that the hair shedding and breakage has significantly reduced. 

The packaging is pretty inconspicuous and I hadn't heard anyone mention these products or recommended them before, so I'm sure glad that I took a chance on them. It doesn't take a lot of product with these to get great results. No other products that I've tried have given me results as good as this duo so far. So until I come across something better (if there even is anything better), this duo will be my go-to shampoo and conditioner from now on or until my hair decides that it needs something different.

Although more expensive than drugstore products, they are not outrageously priced. Personally, I can't really put a price on healthy-looking hair. After all, the last thing I need as I'm aging is to have hair that ages me too. Dry, brittle hair can be extremely aging, while healthy-looking hair equals a healthier, younger-looking you!

Links:

Wella Fusion Intense Repair Shampoo 8.4 oz/ $25

Wella Fusion Intense Repair Conditioner 6.7oz/ $25

                                                            

Some links are affiliate. Thank you for the support.

7 DIY Decorating Ideas For a Fun & Festive Birthday Party!

Do you or a loved one have a birthday coming up and want to decorate on a budget? We have 7 cost-effective ways to decorate with the latest trends for a fun and festive party!

Balloons

Balloons are a great solution if you want to create a fun background for photo opportunities. You can choose from multiple colour themes, a combination of balloons of different sizes, shapes, and foil birthday balloons make great themed decor for your party. Balloon bouquets always look chic because of their volume. Inflated with helium, they will look fabulous and are long-lasting. 

Garlands and Suspended Decorations

Garlands and flags have served as holiday decorations for many decades. In more recent years, it has become fashionable to decorate rooms with ceiling garlands made of paper figures, templates of which can be downloaded online. Flag lights have never gone out of style, but in recent years they have been used to decorate many holiday events. Try making fringed flags out of craft paper for a more original look. An ordinary string light garland will look more festive on an evening porch if you decorate it with coloured flags.

Confetti

This choice is a classic. Various confetti is available, including foil squares, coloured stars, and traditional circles. Fun idea: confetti throwers. After all, confetti is much more fun to throw than collect. Such throwers are easy to make by hand, and they will make any celebration simply unforgettable!

Paper Products for Table Setting

Back in the day, most parties were decorated with simple paper plates and tablecloths. Of course, they were always used at children's parties, whereas adult parties were held only with classic tableware.

Modern paper plates can be so beautiful and stylish that they make a great choice for creating a fun and festive atmosphere for any birthday party.

Paper Fans

It's hard to surprise anyone with a paper fan, but event planners have learned to use them in very unexpected ways. A popular way to use fans at modern celebrations is to paste them on walls to create a fun and original backdrop.

Piñatas

Piñatas used to be massive, and they were purchased in most party supply stores. Today, people make their own paper-mâché toys, the idea came to the rest of the world from Mexico, where it originated. And why not? If you spend a little time, you can decorate your party with a stunning piñata, which will be unique to you and unlike others. Mini piñatas are also very popular. Thanks to them, everyone at the
party will have some fun. Take note of the idea of making charming boxes with candy as pieces of birthday cake.

Banners

Party banners are trending now, although we're used to thinking of them as attributes of large-scale events like award ceremonies or presentations. Imagine decorating a wall with a stunning image of an indigo moon to create a mysterious atmosphere at a themed party. The options are almost endless.

We hope you enjoyed these DIY decorating ideas while planning for your next birthday party! 🎈

A collaboration with Balloons Online.

No7 Restore & Renew Face & Neck Multi Action Serum Review

With so many anti-aging products on the market these days, it's impossible to try them all. Sure I'd love to, especially the older I get, but it's not realistic. However, I do try to test out as many anti-aging products as I can to find the right products for me.

Over the years, I've heard so much about No7 Restore & Renew Face & Neck Multi Action Serum and I was always curious about it, but I was pretty skeptical so I didn't bother trying it out until recently when I received a gift set containing the serum as well as the matching day and night creams. I almost gave them away because I was so skeptical and also because I've used much more expensive products that didn't help much with the loose skin that has been forming on my neck area thanks to the aging process. Eventually, I decided to try them out as my curiosity got the best of me and I'm so glad that I did!

I have been using the serum on my face and neck in the morning and the nighttime after cleansing and then applying either one of the matching No7 moisturizers or another moisturizer in my arsenal. The serum isn't all that moisturizing by itself but that's what my moisturizer is for and if I'm extra dry, I'll apply a face oil to seal everything in at bedtime. 

After putting the No7 serum to the test for weeks, there is a remarkable difference in the skin on my neck. The loose skin that seemed to suddenly appear one day, is now gone! I'm talking about that loose skin that some like to refer to as "turkey skin" or "turkey neck" that we seem to inevitably get as we age. It seemed to show up one day out of nowhere for me and I was kind of freaking out! Well, I'm no longer freaking out thanks to No7 Restore & Renew Face and Neck Multi Action Serum. I'm not saying that my neck looks like I'm 20 again, but the worst signs of aging on my neck (loose skin) has all but disappeared.

About:

• Formulated with powerful age-defying ingredients that penetrate your skin’s surface 10 layers deep, targeting the look of damage you can’t see and visible signs you can.Age-defying collagen peptides penetrate skin's surface layers to reveal younger-looking skin
• Fortifying Complex: a blend of Calcium, Amino Acids and Ceramides
• Firming Complex: a hydrating blend of Hibiscus peptides and Hyaluronic Acid
• Pro-Retinol: supports skin’s renewal process to help reduce the appearance of visible signs of aging
• Formulated for mature skin
• Suitable for sensitive skin
• Winner of the Good Housekeeping Seal

I am so glad that I decided to give this serum a try! These No7 products have worked like magic on the loose skin on my neck, I still can't believe it! I've used the serum with moisturizers from other brands as well, so it seems to work magic by itself, meaning you don't necessarily have to use it along with the matching AM + PM moisturizers if you don't want to but you may have quicker or better results by using the entire range. I did use the serum along with the matching AM and PM moisturizers for the first few weeks, then I decided to keep up the serum and try it with some of my other moisturizers as I have so many to use up, and I have found that I am still benefiting by just using the serum from this line.

The loose skin on my 53-year-old neck tightened up so much in such a short amount of time (weeks!). No other products have given me the results that this serum has when it comes to dealing with the very thin, aging, and delicate skin on my neck. Apparently, No7 Beauty knows a thing or two when it comes to anti-aging skincare. Note that I have aging, dehydrated/combo skin that can be reactive and I haven't experienced any sensitivities with these No7 products.

If you are also experiencing loose skin on your neck or face and you don't want to live with it, definitely give this serum and the moisturizers a try. They're affordable and they really live up to the claims.

*Purchase No7 Restore & Renew Face and Neck Multi Action Serum  -  $31.98/ 30ml

*Purchase No7 Restore & Renew Gift Set with Serum + AM + PM moisturizers - $66 / 3 pc set

* Prices are subject to change. This post contains affiliate links which means that we may make a small commission if you choose to use them.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and very happy and healthy New Year! 🎅 🎄 

See you in 2023! 🥳

Last Minute Stocking Stuffer and Gift Ideas With Amazon

Every year, the holidays sneak up on me so fast! In November, the holidays seem so far away, the next thing I know Christmas is a week away and I still haven't finished my shopping. This is where Amazon has come in as my saviour. Whether I need packages shipped to my home or directly to a friend or family's home, Amazon has me covered. Amazon Prime offers even faster shipping, often with next-day or 2-day shipping on most products. 

I wanted to share my top picks for him and her this holiday season to help you with your last-minute shopping. Hopefully, it will help you as much as it has helped me. Links to products can be found in the headings for each item.

Light up hat - $15-$20

This light-up toque/hat is such a cool product! It's one of those things that you wonder how you lived without it once you have it. It's also perfect for him or her. It can be used in a multitude of ways; for those with jobs that require hands-free light, for those who like to do outdoor activities like walking or skiing at night, or maybe they are elderly and this light-up hat can light the way so they don't trip on anything. It's really great for anyone. I have personally purchased 3 of these for loved ones and for myself. The light is rechargeable and can be removed so the hat can be washed. It's very affordable and comes in various colours.

Belt Bag- $14 and up

I think most of us have heard of the uber-popular Lululemon Belt Bag. It's not only functional but also very fashionable. Luckily,  there are so many cheaper alternatives to Lulu's bag. And, you don't have to be a fashionista to love this bag! My father has one that he uses daily for when he's out walking, travelling or shopping. I have one as well and love it! I think everyone can use one of these fabulous bags and it doesn't break the bank. There are multiple colours to choose from and it can be worn in multiple ways. It's a definite must-have for everyone these days.

Silk or Satin Pillowcases - $10 and up

I've been using silk and satin pillowcases for years! They're a nice little luxury that doesn't have to cost a lot, especially if you choose satin ones. They are nice and cooling on the skin, help prevent wrinkles, and protect the hair from damage as well as helping to keep your hairstyle in place longer.

Wireless Earbuds- $20 and up

iPods are great, but these days you don't have to spend a lot of money to get good-quality wireless earbuds. My favourite kind are the ones that have a case that recharges the earbuds. I've been using the same pair for years and they are still going strong. This is a great gift for any age.

Health Keep Digital Scale- $22 and up

This is the perfect gift for anyone who is into health and/or fitness or perhaps they are watching their weight. I have purchased 3 of these so far for myself and my loved ones. This scale is the same one used by my partner's chiropractor, so I trust it. Scales have definitely come a long way as this digital scale is super sensitive and also calculates much more than just your weight. "Healthkeep Weight Body Fat Scale features a full body composition analysis with Body Fat%, BMI, Muscle Mass, Visceral Fat, Metabolic Age, and more - A total of 13 vital measurements on the feelfit app."

Cordless Razor- $35 and up

A digital cordless razor is a perfect gift for any guy looking for a clean, smooth shave. No more fumbling with cords and it can also be used in the shower with a waterproof one, making things quick and easy for him.

Off The Shoulder Sweater- $13 and up

I own this sweater and I love it. It's soft, comfy, and cozy but also very fashionable. It can be dressed up or down. It also shows off a part of the body that most of us are pretty comfortable with. It comes in several different colours so there is something for everyone and it's suitable for pretty much any age. 

Snowflake Multitool- $9 and up

I purchased this multitool for my partner who is a tool fanatic and he loves it! It's heavy-duty and has a built-in bottle opener, various wrench sizes, various phillip sizes, a screwdriver, a keychain, and more! You can't go wrong with this gift and everyone can use one- it's also a great gift for her!

Carhartt Long SleeveTshirt with Pocket - $24 and up

Carhart makes great quality clothes. My partner is always looking for a good quality long sleeve t-shirt with a front chest pocket and they seem hard to come by. I'm glad that I found this one for him on Amazon. I'm certain he is going to love it! This would be a great gift for any guy in your life. There are a variety of colours to choose from.

Evil Eye Beaded Bracelet- $7 and up (various styles are available)

I've owned this bracelet for probably a decade. It goes with everything ( I wear it daily) and the evil eye is said to protect the wearer from jealousy, misfortune, or injury. I think anyone would love to wear this beautiful bracelet. They even sell some without the rhinestones that men would probably prefer.

Reece's Chocolate- $4 and up

If you have a Reece lover in your life, they will love this half-pound cup! It would make a great stocking stuffer or add-on to another gift. There are other forms of this treat as well if this one becomes sold out as it often does.

Speak Out Game- $20 and up

If you are looking for a fun game for every to play, Speak out is a great choice. There are various versions including one for parents and kids. This game will have everyone in stitches, laughing until their bellies hurt, most likely. 

Dyson Airwrap- $700 and up

As someone who is always looking for ways to save money, I never thought I would own the Dyson Airwrap. But, as someone who has dealt with very difficult hair my entire life, I needed to try it. I used to DREAD having to wash my hair because then I had to deal with drying and styling my very difficult hair. Now I don't worry about it, the Dyson basically does my hair for me! I love it and I sure wish it was around decades ago so it could have saved me from so much stress and aggravation. If you know someone who is like me and dreads doing their hair, the Dyson Airwrap could be the answer for them too. It has several attachments to dry and style the hair whether they want a straight style or curled. I also feel that my hair is healthier because of it!

Last Minute Gift Cards- $15 and up

Amazon also has various physical or virtual gift cards for purchase. So if you just don't have time to make it to the store to purchase one, you can order one from Amazon and have it shipped to you or your loved one within days. This has come in very handy for me!

I sure hope these gift ideas have helped you with your last-minute shopping. If you don't have Amazon Prime, you can always try it out for free to see if you like it as Prime usually offers faster shipping than non-Prime orders and they offer a free 30-day trial.

Happy holidays and happy shopping!

This post contains affiliate links.

Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil Review

Shu Uemura's Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil contains 8 precious oils to cleanse and nourish the skin. It has been a savior for my dehydrated skin, especially during these colder months when my skin becomes even more dry and dehydrated than it normally is.

I love all of the naturally sourced botanical oils in this Product. They are so soothing and great for all skin types including aging, sensitive, and or dehydrated skin types. 

The oil does a fabulous job at removing all of my makeup, as a first cleanse, and even as my only cleanse on some mornings. If I'm not wearing any makeup, I often use it as my only cleanse, especially when my skin is feeling dehydrated. It makes my skin feel so hydrated and soft and my skin isn't left greasy at all. It has a very light scent and I haven't experienced any irritation or breakouts on my reactive skin.

It's such a great way to cleanse the skin as it removes makeup and impurities while hydrating the skin at the same time. It contains camellia oil and squalene oil which are 2 of my all time favourite oils for anti aging and reactive skin types. 

If your skin feels tight at all, I think you will love the relief that this oil brings. I wish I hadn't been so afraid of oils when I was young and had acne. Not only did topical oils help clear up my adult acne when I became older and more informed about the wonderful benefits of oils for acne and sensitive skin, but oils are also wonderful for anti-aging!

Sure, it has a higher price tag but a little goes a long way. So if you want to treat your skin or a loved one's with some precious oils that will pamper your skin and make you feel like you've been transported to a holistic spa for an uber expensive facial, it's definitely worth it. 

About:

With a cashmere-like texture, this legendary facial cleansing oil infused with 8 precious oils renews skin quality, leaving it moisturized and feeling soft and smooth with less visible pores, for an unforgettable cleansing experience that is the ultimate in skin care. Cashmere skin quality: ultime8 complex delivers softer, smoother and moisturized skin for an exquisite makeup finish. The precious essences of 8 exquisite botanical origin oils have been merged together. These oils, carefully sought out from Chinese medicines and beauty oils all over the world, are proven to have the highest skincare efficacy. Utlime8 cleansing oil effortlessly removes all makeup and impurities.

Highly recommend this beautiful oil for anyone looking for a gentle yet effective cleansing oil.

Available on Amazon.ca and Amazon.com 

Free sample was kindly gifted for testing purposes. 

This post contains affiliate links.