Dr. Scholl's® For Her Cozy Cushions

Also as part of the Rose Vox Box program through Influenster I got to try these nifty little cozy cushions, a brand new product by Dr. Scholl's For Her. These Cozy Cushions are insoles made for the cold weather months, which in Pennsylvania are certainly abundant!

The insole is covered in a fuzzy and super warm almost faux sheepskin like material that really retains heat while keeping moisture at bay, and these insoles provide a double benefit with the cushion-y support they also provide. In short, it's a supportive and soft insole that also keeps you toasty toasty warm!

When I first received the package, I was curious as to how these would fit my shoes, as they were HUGE. However, once I opened them up I saw that they were completely sizable, and all you have to do is cut along the line that shows your shoe size. The process was beyond easy, and I had my fuzzy new size 7 insoles ready to wear in no time at all!

The first pair of shoes I tried these insoles in were my Tom's Shoes Desert Wedges, and I found that the insoles was a little too wide, and caused my foot to sit a little too high for these particular shoes; Although they were rather cozy and comfy after I put them in!

I decided to opt for a shoe that was a little wider naturally, so I chose my sturdy black lace-up Nike boots. These are the boots I'm typically in if there's dreaded snow on the ground, so I figured that these would be the perfect vessels in which to tuck in my cozy cushions. Needless to say, I was correct. For boots, these insoles are now an absolute must, and they really breathed new life into an old trustworthy pair of boots for me. Whether you plant to tromp through the snow, or walk from your car and back, it's incredible how much warmer and more comfortable your cold weather shoes will be with the addition of these insoles.

These insoles can be found anywhere from $9-$12 at your standard big box stores like Target or Walmart, and they really make a great investment in any pair of shoes. However, if a shoe fits a bit tighter naturally, these insoles could prove to be a bit too wide, but they can be cut smaller at any time! 

Thanks to Influenster for allowing me the opportunity to try these insoles for free!

Scandaleyes Retro Glam Mascara by Rimmel London

As part of the Rose Vox Box program from Influenster, I was lucky enough to try the new Scandaleyes Retro Glam mascara by Rimmel London that freshly hit store shelves just last month in November. I'm a big time mascara gal, and I have a collection that could make Twiggy herself jealous, so I was beyond eager to try this hot off the press product.

Upon first use, I noticed that the brush was SUPER effective, and it coated each lash perfectly for a super dramatic fanned out look. I adore retro styles, and I though that the look I was able to achieve with this mascara fit the bill perfectly. For a truly retro feel, I did an extra coat (or three) on the corners of my lashes, and I was able to achieve a "cat eye" like appearance without spending a half hour fighting with an unsteady hand and liquid liner brush!

The only downside I found to the mascara, however, was that it seemed to dry out much too fast. The first two or three weeks of using the product was incredible...but after that I started noticing the clumps, or "mascara boogers" as I so affectionately like to call them. Getting the same smooth fan that I was able to achieve got more and more difficult after that initial few-week honeymoon period, and after about a month I found the product to be close to unusable.

However, this mascara only retails for around $10, and can be found at all your major drug stores, so it's not necessarily difficult to replace. For the look I was able to get for the first few weeks of use, I will most likely purchase this mascara to use again in the future, because you just can't find that type of drama with a mascara that's this affordable on the regular!


Thanks to Influenster for allowing me to try this product free!

Intense Healing With Curel

 

Courtesy of BzzAgent, I was lucky enough to receive Curel's Intensive Healing Cream around the end of September. Mind you, I have horrible dry hands from fall into winter, it's an annual event so predictable you could set your watch to it. They have so affectionately been called "Dragon Hands" "Alligator Hands" and "Ew." for quite some time now, and although everyone just loves a pet name...I do not love this dryness. 

Immediately upon trying the cream, I noticed that it soaked in nicely. This was fantastic in two ways:

1. Greasy hands are not fun, and dropping things isn't my idea of a good time.
2. I knew it was actually going INTO my skin, not resting on top of it. 

It's hard for me to find creams that really soak in there, so experiencing that was great development.

After a few weeks of use, I did notice that the skin on my hands was far less dry and far more comfortable, but it was still early in the season, and I wasn't going to get my hopes COMPLETELY up.

Once November welcomed itself in, and the weather was steadily pretty chilly up here in Pennsylvania I let myself believe in the Intensive Healing. Throughout plenty of bitter cold days and nights, and a few especially chilly cold snaps, my hands are still going strong. There is no sign of the chapping coming back, and I don't have to worry starting a fire each time I rub my palms together.

I was fortunate enough to try this product free through BzzAgent, but it can be found at Walmart, Target, and just about any drugstore for around $9.99-$11.99 for a nicely sized 16oz pot. Mind you, the pot will last you forever, and you may even be able to pass it on to future generations as something of an heirloom piece, because so little goes such a long way.

Thanks again to BzzAgent for allowing me the opportunity to try this product free! If you're interested in becoming a BzzAgent, check it out here: BzzAgent


#GotItFree #ImABzzAgent

Dr. Scholl's Active Series For Her

Compliments of Influenster, I recently had the opportunity to try the new Dr. Scholl's Active Series insoles. These insoles are meant for sneakers and making physical activity a bit more comfortable by way of excellent support.

The one thing that I noticed, and loved, immediately after receiving these insoles is the triple support they offer; your entire foot is completely covered! From the ball, to the arch, to the heel, nothing was left out in terms of support. I placed these insoles in my sneakers after receiving them, and I was ready to go!

I have Nike sneakers, nothing fancy or special about them, and I use them to do my daily walks or hikes. I'm not much of a runner, I do run on occasion, but it's certainly not my favorite means of physical activity, and I'm much more of a walker and hiker instead. The first time I used these insoles I was going on a hike through some park trails down the road from my house, and I immediately noticed the excellent arch support. I never realized how poor the arch support was in these shoes until I used the insoles, and the added comfort was extraordinary!

My next significant discovery came the following day. After a rigorous hike, my lower back and hamstrings are usually pretty sore, and I often wake up a bit wobbly that next morning. Nope, not with these insoles. All of my typical aches and pains were a distant memory, and when I awoke the next morning, I felt zero pain or discomfort in any of my leg or back muscles! My weak knees, sore hamstrings, and achy lower back were nowhere to be found, and I could've jumped out of bed and straight  back onto the trail if I wanted to!

All in all, these are excellent insoles, and I'd highly recommend them to anyone who enjoys a bit of exercise with not a shred of discomfort either during or after the fact. You can find these handy little products in Walgreen's or Walmart and the price can range from $19.97-$24.99, which in my opinion is pocket change for the results they provide!

Again, thank you to Influenster for allowing me the opportunity to try yet another excellent product for free!

Schwarzkopf Professional OSiS+

The highlight of my Spring Fever Vox Box from Influenster was most certainly this OSiS+ Rough Rubber Paste.

I have short-er hair, it comes down to my chin at its longest point, and I'm quite the hair styling enthusiast. I like funky and fun statement hairstyles, which normally take some product to achieve. I've tried a multitude of different products to achieve these looks, and this one may now be in my top 3.

This rough rubber paste does have a strange consistency, which can be a little different to get used to. However, once you do get used to working with it, it's an excellent product to work with. The feeling of it is almost bouncy, like if you were to drop a penny onto the open container, it would jump right back up to you (I wouldn't recommend trying this, however, as I'm sure it does not work that way!).

The scent of the product is pleasant, and not overbearing; I found it to be a nice and clean scent. In my previous experiences with similar products, I would find myself almost annoyed by the overwhelming scent, so I was very pleased to find a product that didn't stink up my style.

To use this rubber paste, I used my pointer and middle fingers to scoop out a small amount from the jar, just enough to cover both fingertips. Then, I wiped my fingertips into the palm of my opposing hand, and rubbed my hands together to make sure I would get a nice even application. I worked the product from my palms into my hair starting with the under layers and working my way up; grabbing and pulling the product through each layer of my hair. After applying, I was able to "rough up" my layers to achieve a great textured look. Once I was finished, I set my style with a little hair spray, messed it up a bit, and was ready to go!

The only downside of this product that I've found is that it doesn't offer optimal hold, in my opinion. I often had to dip back into the pot to achieve a little more hold, but doing so too much would make my hair look greasy. Overall, I would recommend this product, however, as it really gives you a great look once you get the hang of using it.

This rough rubber paste is available at salons and specialty hair-care retailers and sells for about $20 per pot. To find out more about this great paste, check out Schwarzkopf's website at: http://www.schwarzkopf-professionalusa.com/ !


A huge thank you, as always, to Influenster for giving me the opportunity to try this product free!

Broadway Nails imPRESS Press-on Manicure

Through Influenster, I was recently lucky enough to try the new imPRESS Press-On Manicure included within my Spring Fever Vox Box. I'm not typically one for press on manicures, as I am fortunate enough to be able to easily grow healthy natural nails, but since this was provided to me at no cost...I was more than willing to give it the old college try!

I used these press-on nails before an evening out, and when I didn't particularly feel like giving myself a full manicure. These press-on nails gave me a great temporary solution to my manicure problem. These nails are quite temporary, though, and did not last very long at all on my nails. I would recommend these nails for situations which would only require one or two days from of a manicured look.

The adhesive used on these press-on nails was easy to remove and did not damage my natural nail. I usually worry about adhesives on my nails, as I have experienced damages from nail adhesives in the past, but with these imPRESS Press-On Nails, I had no need for concern!

What I was most impressed with regarding this product were the styles and patterns offered. The style deemed "Holla" (shown above) is what I received, and as you can see it is a really striking pink/black lace pattern. I loved the classiness of the style, as well as the edginess it provided to my manicure and overall look! The imPRESS line of press-on nails comes in a myriad of different styles, and you are bound to find something you will absolutely love!

Whether you are a regular user of press-on nails, or are more privy to manicuring your own natural nails, I would highly recommend these imPRESS Press-On Manicures. They're quick and convenient, making them perfect for those situations when you may not have the time available to give yourself a proper manicure, and they're gentle on the nail for those who use these types of products regularly. If you ever find yourself crunched for time before a night out, there is no way you could regret keeping a couple of sets of these along with your cosmetic items!

The imPRESS Press-On Manicure set is available at all major retailers, and for great affordable prices. At retail, these kits usually run about $5.99 for colors and $7.99 for patterns, making them as cost efficient as they are convenient!

Want to check out the imPRESS Press-On Manicures for yourself? Visit impressmanicure.com/ to find out more about this great product!

Secret Outlast Clear Gel

Through Influenster's coveted Spring Fever Vox Box, which I was so lucky to receive last month, I have been given the opportunity to try yet another great product!

I wear a lot of black; not that I'm gloomy, but what can go wrong with such a slimming, classic, and versatile clothing color choice? Oh, right, besides deodorant streaks. I am well versed in the art of avoiding deodorant streaks, but even the best are destined to fall from time to time. Before trying this clear gel from Secret, I really thought a truly clear deodorant was unattainable.

This clear gel really does stay clear; I am yet to find a single white mark on any article of clothing that I have worn since receiving it. The gel goes on smooth and dries to your skin quickly, although even when I've been rushed and forced to dress immediately after application, the deodorant has yet to make any type of appearance on my clothes. I really think that gone may be the days of trying the "lava pits" dance while shimmying on my shirts!

With the 90+ degree weather we've been having in Pennsylvania, it also does its staying dry job quite well, too. It smells nice and fresh without being overpowering, and it really does keep you dry. The only discrepancy I have found with this product is its 48 hour claim. As gross as it may sound, I happily tested out this claim, but was not overly pleased with the results. I could smell no traces of the deodorant after about 24 hours, and it needed to be reapplied the next day. That being said, however, if my only problem is being forced to put on deodorant every day...I'd say I'm in pretty good shape!

Thanks to Influenster for allowing me the chance to try this excellent product for free!

Old Navy's 2013 Activewear Line!

Through Crowdtap, I was lucky enough to try a sampling of the new 2013 Activewear line by Old Navy! I received two coupons, one for me and one for a girlfriend, for 1 free Activewear top and bottom; so we decided to make a day of it! One of my best girlfriends and I went this afternoon set out to browse this new impressive Activewear line. The first thing I noticed about the line is it is truly fashionable, gone are the days of sacrificing fashion for function in great activewear. We both found an incredible amount of adorable pieces, and it was hard to choose just one of each (I foresee another trip in our near future!)

Firstly and functionally, no corner was cut in the fabric quality. The fabrics are sturdy, moisture wicking, and well sewn; these pieces are going to work as hard as you do. The compression pieces have great stretch and allow really comfortable movement, which is imperative in a good piece of workout clothing. Also, I loved how all sizes were equally represented, as we're both pretty small girls. It's difficult to find XS pants in stock, which always seems to be a problem for us both, but we had PLENTY to choose from with this Old Navy line. From what I noticed, no matter the size, there was something cute on the rack for you!

Now for the fun part, the fashion! I found the fits to be flattering, the colors are bright and varied, and the styles are plentiful. I chose a black pair of fold-over Yoga Capri pants and a very pretty light blue compression top, while my girlfriend went with compression capris and the matching compression top both in a dark heather grey. Color-blocking was very prominent within the line, which I found to be quite trendy and fun, but all color preferences were thoroughly represented.

Noticing the prices, quite a few products were on sale, and those that weren't were far from overpriced. When compared to other activewear lines, Old Navy is not only set out to satisfy your preferences, but also your budget. I didn't see an unreasonably priced item!


A HUGE thank you to Crowdtap for giving the opportunity to try this line out for FREE! Interested in a little tappin'? Check out Crowdtap for yourself at: www.crowdtap.com

Old Navy's Activewear Collection is also available to buy and browse online, and it's worth a peek!
Check it out here:  Old Navy Activewear

Tastykake® Kandy Bar Kakes

I was recently lucky enough to be chosen for one of Influenster's coveted VoxBoxes, and I was thrilled to see it included one of these new delectable little treats! Being a lifelong resident of the Philadelphia area, I am no stranger to Tastykake; it has been a snack staple in my family for as long as I can remember. These new Kandy Bar Kakes are an awesome addition to the Tastykake line of treats, and one I was glad to try out, nobody was twisting my arm to down one of these puppies!

As a peanut butter fanatic, I was more than happy to try out the Reese's variety, and it totally lived up to the hype. I had it as a between breakfast and lunch snack with a cup of coffee, and it really hit the spot. It's a rich little chocolate covered cake bar with a perfectly savory-yet-sweet peanut butter cream center. I do not use the word rich lightly, might I add, and one little cake bar was surprisingly filling. The ONLY thing I would change or suggest regarding these cake bars is the size, they come in the form of one large Kandy Bar Kake. Personally, with how rich and filling I found one bar to be, I thought it would be optimal if they were broken in half and made into two smaller Kandy Bar Kakes per package, so I could easily eat one and save one for later!

Either way, I would highly recommend these little gems for your snacking pleasure. I've only tried the Peanut Butter variety so far, but I did see the entire line in my local WaWa. I think my next victim should be the S'mores variety (I'm a sucker for some S'mores!), and I plan to devour it with a cold glass of milk!

These retail from about $1.69 for a single to $4.49 for a family pack, making them as affordable as they are delicious!

Thanks again to Influenster for allowing me the opportunity to try this product for FREE!


Check out Tastykake's entire line here: http://www.tastykake.com/

Garnier Fructis Miracle Dry Oil: Why it Works!

To delve more in depth into just how the Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition Miracle Dry Oil works for your hair, face, and body, you first have to look at some of the amazingly beneficial components that make up the stuff. Being a truly innovative product, and the first of it's kind made available to mass retailers, it is made up of three different oils that each provide their own unique benefit to actually improving and making a difference in your hair and skin. 

Olive Oil

• Olive oil is well known to improve the strength and elasticity in hair. It does so by moisturizing the hair from the scalp to the ends of each strand.
• It is also rich in vitamins A, D, K, and E, as well as Polyphenols. These protect both the hair and skin from free radicals, and studies have shown they also postpone signs of aging and aid in cell repair.
• Olive oil also helps to reduce the build-up caused by the use of hair styling products; allowing you a fresh clean style every time.

Shea Oil

• High in vitamins A, E, and F, Shea Oil moisturizes the scalp and gives your hair an unbeatable shine. 
• Shea Oil is hypoallergenic and perfect for those with allergies to other moisturizers. It also does not clog pores.
• It firms skin and prevents signs of aging. 
• Shea Oil has been proven to be effective in several different types of dry skin problems. This includes, but is not limited to, cracking, rashes, and psoriasis. 
• It is also believed to cause the fading of scar tissue when used regularly in early scarring; particularly for stretch marks or acne scars.

Avocado Oil

• Avocado Oil is high in vitamins A, B, C, D, and E, as well as well as protein, lecithin and mono-unsaturated fatty acids. These components are not only second-to-none in their antioxidant properties, but also are excellent for revitalizing dry and dull skin, as well as hair, back to it's natural healthy glow.
• Avocado Oil forms a protective layer over the skin and hair, locking in moisture and keeping out damaging free radicals.
• It also helps to protect your hair and skin from the damage of UV rays. The protective barrier it creates helps to absorb some of the rays before they reach your hair and skin, protecting it from sun damage.

With these invaluable assets ready to fight off dryness, aging, toxins, cell damage, scarring, and UV rays, this dry oil IS truly miraculous. Especially with Summer right around the corner, there are no reasons to NOT have this product on hand!

Again, all of these benefits are yours with this Garnier Fructis Miracle Dry Oil, along with the convenience of being made available where you already shop!

Thanks again to Bzz Agent for allowing me the opportunity to try this product free!

#GotItFree #BzzAgent #ImABzzAgent #GarnierUSA

The Miraculous New Miracle Oil by Garnier Fructis

 

An innovative new product, and the first of it's kind to be made available to mass retailers, is the new Triple Nutrition Miracle Dry Oil by Garnier Fructis. What makes this product so different, or "miraculous" if you will, is the fact that it's fit for use on the skin of your face and body, as well as your hair. Armed with the oils of avocado, shea, and olive, the oil really does go on dry and leaves your skin and hair with a noticeably healthy glow.

After using this product for a bit over a month now, I can verify these claims. For hair, I've noticed, a TINY amount goes a loooong way! Remember, this is an oil, so don't overdo it! I have chin-length medium textured hair, which tends to fall to the limp side, and 1 pump of the spray bottle into my palm was plenty on my damp hair. The product can be used on dry hair as well, but I preferred to use it damp. After blow-drying I noticed my hair was extremely soft and incredibly shiny, although the softness did make it difficult to style normally. For skin, I preferred the texture and feel of this product to any lotions or creams I've used, and with my dry skin, I'm something of a lotion connoisseur. The greasy after-feel of a lotion wasn't there, instead I had unspeakably soft skin that really seemed to give off an incredible healthy glow. 

I did, however, notice a small downside to this product. With prolonged regular use, although it claims to be an everyday product, my skin began to have a reaction. I used the product on my legs two to three times a week for about a month and I began to get a reaction of small irritation bumps along my shins which ceased shortly after taking a break from the oil. Although, my skin can be admittedly quite sensitive and fickle, so this could very well be an isolated incident! If you have somewhat sensitive skin as well, I may suggest easing you skin into regular use of this product.

The product retails for an affordable $5.99, is available at all major retailers, and is certainly worth a try!

Big thanks to Buzz Agent for allowing me the opportunity to try this product free! Interested in becoming a Buzz Agent? Head on over to BzzAgent

Want more info on the Miracle Oil and other great Garnier products? Take a visit to Garnier USA

#GotItFree #BzzAgent #ImABzzAgent #GarnierUSA

Schick Hydro Silk - Quenching the Thirst of Dry Legs with 5 Curve Hugging Blades

 

This razor did not win a Cosmopolitan Best of Beauty award in vain; Schick Hydro Silk earned it wholeheartedly. Thanks to the awesomeness that is Buzz Agent, I have been given the opportunity to try this razor for free, and have been using it regularly for just over two weeks. Much like the aforementioned issues with my hands, my legs also suffer some intense dryness through the winter months...along with razor bumps and irritation. However, since using this razor, I have seen a legitimate difference in the look and feel of my legs. I chalk this improvement up to Schick's marine extract and shea butter infused "Water-Activated Moisturizing Serum" which lines the top and bottom of the razor's head. The serum alone keeps the legs moisturized for up to two hours post-shave, and when combined with a good shave gel and body cream, your legs will feel divine all day (and night) long.

Although the starter kit box recommends using Skintimate shave gel with this razor, I have chosen to use Aveeno Therapeutic Shave Gel, and couldn't be happier with the results. So far, I have experienced legs with zero bumps or irritation, as well as the complete absence of my typical dryness. To lock in this moisture, I would highly recommend using a quality body lotion or cream after drying off for an extended moisturizing experience. A personal favorite of mine has been Nivea's Extended Moisture Body Lotion, infused with Vitamin b5, it keeps legs moisturized for up to 48 hours, and locks in the fresh shave feeling of Schick's Hydro Silk razor magnificently. 

You can find Schick's Hydro Silk razor at most major retailers, drug stores, and grocery stores. A starter kit will run you around $9.49, with the cartridge refills going for about $15.11 per 4-pack. The starter kit also comes with a suction-cup razor holder for use on the shower wall, to keep your razor in a safe and dry area out of the water's line of fire; thus keeping your razor's head and blades sharper and fresher for longer!

Again, a big thank you to Buzz Agent for allowing me the opportunity to try another great product! Interested in becoming a Buzz Agent yourself? Check them out here: https://www.bzzagent.com/

#GotItFree #BzzAgent #ImABzzAgent #SchickHydroSilk

Neutrogena Norwegian: The Photographic Evidence

I

I recently boasted a bit about Neutrogena Norwegian Hand Cream and it's effects on self-made manicures. I went through my personal manicure process, and outlined the benefits of incorporating Neutrogena Norwegian into your own manicure rituals.

We're reaching some pretty brutal cold this time of year in Pennsylvania, making the final moisturizing step of a manicure all the more important. Luckily, I have this gem in my corner, so my nails have been doing just fine!

Proof:

I opted for a snazzy Zebra print manicure, aided by the Salon Express Nail Stamping Tool, and a generous dab of Neutrogena Norwegian. As you can see...my hands look soft, healthy, and comfortable...even with the snowy proof of the temperature outside! Also, my nails are sturdier and more moisturized than they've ever been this time of year, making it super easy to achieve a nicely even and clean look!


A BIG thanks to Buzz Agent for giving me the opportunity to try out this product! Interested in becoming a Buzz Agent? Check it out here: Buzz Agent


#GotItFree #ImABzzAgent #BzzAgent