October 2017 Empties | Look at my trash!

It’s sadly the end of my favorite month. But, that means it’s time to talk about all the stuff I used up! 

Before I get into that though, look at my new Empties bin!!! #slytherinpride🐍🐍

Hair Care 


Project Beauty Hairgurt “Strawberry Banana”: This is my second empty of this stuff and I love it. It’s inexpensive, smells freaking fantastic, works wonders, and is obviously CF. Will repurchase (again).

L’Oréal Extordinary Oil: This stuff took me ages to get through. It did its job and smelled nice. However, L’Oréal is not CF. Will not repurchase.

OGX Moroccan Argon Creme Shampoo: I actually really enjoyed this Shampoo. It worked very well and and the scent was very long lasting. I am having trouble finding out what OGX’s actual CF stance is. My repurchase decision is undecided.

OGX Hydrating Macadamia Oil Conditioner: Again, I loved this product. It made my hair very soft and the scent was phenomenal and long lasting. My repurchase decision is undecided for the same reason as the Shampoo.

Home Scents


BBW Wallflowers “Leaves” and “Sleep”: I love these scents, but I no longer support BBW. I still have so many to go through, and my friend got me a few during a sale. These things won’t go away 🙄. 

BBW Stress Relife Eucalyptus and Spearmint Candle: I hate spearmint, so I was not a fan of this candle. I am going to repurpose the jar though! 

Makeup and a random


Colgate Radiant Tooth Paste: I keep forgetting to throw my tooth paste in my Empties! I remembered this time though. Not CF will not repurchase. BTW, I have a neat tooth brush post coming up!

Duo Lash Glue “Black”: works well. Would rather have the clear one. I need a good CF lash glue.

Jordana Fabuliner “Black”: A Great inexpensive liner. CF. Will repurchase.

Physician Formula Double Ended Brow Pencil: I never used the Highlight side. I think the Brow side was too thick for my liking. Is CF though! Will not repurchase.

Rimmel Exagerate Liner “Black”: Not CF, will not repurchase.

Body/Skin Care


Clearasil Toner: Not CF, didn’t do anything. Will not repurchase.

Yes to Tomatoes Detoxifying Charcoal Cleanser: I am in love with this face wash! It’s inexpensive, very effective, CF, and 97% natural! Will repurchase!

Juara Java Plum Avocado Mask: I have a Review on this product! Read it to find out!

Beenigma: I don’t get they hype over this stuff…I also don’t think that there is bee venom in it. Will not repurchase.

Soap&Glory Flake Away: I wish S&G didn’t test on animals where required by law:(. Will not repurchase, even though I love it.

Derma E Vitamin C Serum: I have a review for this product as well. Read it to find out my thoughts!

Neutrogena Water Gel: Not CF, will not repurchase. Did work well though.

Masqueology Collagen Hydro Gel Mask: This mask was neat. It was a gold Gell sheet mask that came in two pieces. It made my skin soft! But, it is not CF. Will not repurchase.

Body Sprays:


Body Fantasy Cherry Blossom: Not CF and didn’t smell too good. Will not repurchase.

BBW Sleep Spray: I used this on my pillows! I’m going to miss it, not CF so I won’t be repurchasing.

Taylor Swift Wonder Struck: I actually enjoyed this scent, but I like other scents better. Will not be repurchasing. 

That is all for my Empties! What did you use up this month??? Comment below!

Thank you so much for stopping by!

IG and SC @manda_janette


Natur-all Club | Natural Hair Mask Box 

What it is: A natural avocado hair mask and a Serum, delivered monthly.

How much: currently only $25 a month.

I am going to be honest, before this I had NEVER used avocado, or any type of food, in my hair. Even though it is a frequently discussed remedy for dry hair. I was too lazy to DIY an avocado mask. This is where the Natur-all club comes in and saves me. 

The Natur-all Club Is a monthly box that includes A hair mask, hair serum, hair tie, shower cap, and spray bottle (the spray bottle is only in your first box).  On top of the benefits of extremely natural, good for you hair products;  you get the added bonus of taking part in supporting an all African American women owned business! 

Each month has a featured ingredient, for October the ingredient is Vitamin E. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps repair and build tissue, reduce scalp inflammation and damage to the follicles, encourage the the growth of healthy follicles, and even prevents premature graying. Tackling a TON of concerns! 


The mask does need to be frozen until used sense it is made of avocado. Once thawed it must be kept refrigerated where it stays good for a week. The 4oz mask gives 1-3 uses. I used more than half on my first go.


Here is what the mask looks like! It is pretty thick, which is expected. Before applying make sure you dampen your hair with water, using the included spray bottle- remember his bottle is only in your first box.


Here is me, bare faced with the mask on! Once you have applied the mask secure your hair with the included hair tie then put on your shower cap. Let sit between 20-40 minuets. I did the full 40.

The mask does have a very spicy/earthy scent, which I am fine with. If you aren’t, don’t worry because you will still be using your usual shampoo and stuff after rinsing it out. So, the scent doesn’t stick around.

You are meant to repeat the process every two weeks, so I am assuming the mask can be refrozen?


After you wash your hair, you apply the serum. Then continue to do so once a week. 

The serum has no dectable scent and is solid. 

Once my hair was dry I noticed what a difference the mask made. I cannot stop running my fingers through my hair! It’s so soft! I wasn’t expecting results after my first use, but I got them and I am VERY impressed. I have tried a ton of hair masks, this one just blew them all out of the water!

🥑🥑🥑🥑🥑 out of 5 avocados! Way worth the $25 a month. It is natural and everything you need is included in the box.

Subscribe to the box and check out the Natur-all blog HERE!

Thank you so much for reading, I hope you enjoyed your time with the post! Have you tried the Natur-all Club before?

IG and SC @manda_janette
*product was sent for review. All opinions are honest and my own. 

Ipsy October 2017 | Spellbound 

What it is: A makeup bag and 5 sample-full size makeup and beauty products.

Cost: $10 a month

I just can’t stay away from Ipsy, I have major FOMO. I am also back on the Boxy Charm waiting list. I have a problem.

This months Ipsy theme is “Spell bound”, super fitting for October. The bag is really cute. It is a Scarlett red with lacing embossing and the zipper is a little bat! I will definitely be using it.

Urban Decay “Perversion” 24/7 Glide On Liner


For god knows what reason, Ipsy still includes a pointless card with no information on it. When will you hear your people Ipsy and make a change!?!

Anyway, this is an eyeliner I have loved for a while, so I will get use out of this travel size.


Look how rich the shade is!

Skyn Iceland Icelandic Relife Eye Cream


I have heard some pretty good things about this eye cream, so I am glad I get to try it out. Hopefully it doesn’t let me down.

Tarts Lifted Sweat Proof Mascara


I am not one to wear makeup to the gym. But, I suppose this would be nice on a hot day.  I love trying Mascara, so I’ll never turn down a chance to try one. I haven’t heard the best reviews for this guy though.

Essence Satin Touch Blush “Satin Coral”


I have wanted to try this line of blushes, I’m glad I got a shade that I will actually wear. I have been loving Coral blushes lately. 


The formula is extremely soft and pigmented. Sometimes I can’t believe how inexpensive Essence is. The drug store has some awesome, inexpensive and cruelty free brands! For another day or so Ipsy actually has an essence offer and I MIGHT get it, probably not though.

Meech & Mia “Beige”


I actually love loose shadows. Getting to try them from random brands is exciting for me. I really want to pick up more from some indie brands.


The shade is really pretty, a lot of shimmer. I can see this being a mess so I will definitely need a tacky base.

That’s it for Ipsy! What did you get this month? Comment below!

Thank you so much for reading!👻

IG and SC @manda_janette


Vegan Cuts Beauty Box OCT. 2017 | Revitalize Your Look

What it is: A cruelty free and vegan Beauty Box you receive monthly.

Cost: $25 a month

I love VC. And I love October. It’s safe to say I was overly excited for this Box. Let’s talk about what’s inside.

The Innate Life Rose Hair Elixir $15


“Rose hair elixir to protect and nourish dry, damaged, and frizzy hair.”

First of all, this elixir smells amazing. The packaging is glass and has a dropper to get the product. I have high hopes for it! 

Use code “VEGANCUTS” for 15% off their site.

Vedic Botanicals Ayurvedic Skin Cream $15


“Ayurvedic herbs, Shea butter and coconut oil blended into a luxurious skin cream.”

This cream is a healing herbal blend and unscented. It’ll come in handy for really dry skin, small surface injuries to the skin, and may even come in handy while tattoos heal, which is awesome sense I plan on getting more soon! 

Use code “VEDICVEGAN” for 20% off at yourvedicbotanicals.com

Z Skin Cosmetics “Pumped” Mineral Mascara $19


“Add length to your lashes with waterproof mineral mascara”

I love receiving Mascara in boxes. I hate buying it, but I also love trying out different mascaras!

Moon Rivers Naturals Coconut Milk Face Wash $9


“Refreshing coconut milk based facial wash to cleanse and revitalize.”

This cleanser is pretty liquidy and it smells like coconut milk. It seems like it will be very hydrating.

Simply Wicked Matcha Green Tea Face Mask $3


“Antioxidant rich green tea matcha powder face mask.”

I love Face masks. I have gotten to try so many from this box. I have never tried a matcha green tea Mask, so this will be neat!

That’s it for this months Box! What did you think? Comment below! 

Thank you so much for reading. 💜

IG and SC @manda_janette

Juara Java Plum & Avocado Nourishing Mask | Sample Series 

*Can only attest to results from the sample size use.* 

I found this in my little box of sample products. I can’t recall where it came from (99% positive it was a Petit Vour Box), but it sparked my interest! Juara is a brand I enjoy, and I’m a face mask junkie.

Claims:

“Leaves skin soft, plump and radiant

Immediately relieves dry, stressed skin

Helps reduce the appearance of dehydration lines

May also be left on as an overnight moisture treatment.”

Ingredients:

“100% Cruelty-Free and Vegan | Water/Aqua, Cocoglycerides*, Shea (Butyrospermum parkii) Butter, Dicaprylyl Carbonate*, Stearyl Alcohol*, Behenyl Alcohol*, Glyceryl Stearate*, Glycerin, Avocado (Persea gratissima) Oil, Lecithin*, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate*, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols*, Buriti (Mauritia flexuosa) Fruit Oil, Java Plum (Spondias mombin) Pulp Extract, Mango (Mangifera indica) Pulp Extract, Banana (Musa sapientum) Pulp Extract, Plum (Prunus domestica) Fruit Extract, Neem (Melia Azadirachta) Leaf Extract, Neem (Melia Azadirachta) Flower Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol, Citric Acid, Xanthan Gum*, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin | *Certified Organic Ingredient”

My Experience:


I found that the mask was extremely creamy, had no scent, and was very easy to use. I loved that I just put in a thin layer of it before bed while winding down and it just seeps in! 

The next morning my skin was always extremely soft and best of all stayed hydrated for a few days! If you have dry skin, this could be face changing. I think this mask would be perfect for the cold, skin moisture sucking weather that will be coming up soon. 

At first I though the $38 retail value was too much. But, this mask is essentially perfect for my dry dull skin. You can get it, HERE, on the Petit Vour site, where you earn point for your purchase, so it’s almost like it’s not $38! 

🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁 I need it. I will be purchasing this five leaf mask. 

I hope you enjoyed this little review! Thank you so much for stopping by!! I have some big things coming up for y’all! 

What is your favorite face mask?? Comment below!

IG and SC @manda_janette


Beauty Without Cruelty Full Volume Mascara | CF & Vegan Mascara Review

If you have stuf with me for a little bit, then you saw that the BWC Full Volume Mascara in “Black”, was featured in the summer Vegan Cuts Makeup Box. You would also know that I was PUMPED to try it! I had been wanting to for quite sometime, but couldn’t bring my self to shell out the $25.95 that it costs. Now that I have finally gotten to experience it, I am here to tell you what I thought.

First, let’s start with the actual product claims, ingredients, the deets. 

Claims

“ FULL VOLUME MASCARA MAXIMUM LENGTH AND THICKNESS

DOUBLE DEPTH BRUSH MAXIMISES EXTENSION AND THICKNESS FOR EXTRA VOLUME”

Ingredients 

“ Aqua/water, Iron Oxides,Oryza Sativa Bran Cera (Rice Wax),VP/VA Copolymer,

Butylene Glycol, Polyglyceryl-5 Laurate, Acacia Senegal Gum (Acacia Wax),

Magnesium Aluminium Silicate, Polyglyceryl-3 Stearate, Copernicia Cerifera

Cera/copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Rhus Verniciflua Peel Cera/rhus

Verniciflua PeelWax (Japanese Fruit Wax), Nylon-66, Hydrogenated Lecithin,

Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Glyceryl Caprylate, Ultramarines,

Ethylhexylglycerin, Potassium Sorbate, Bambusa Arundinacea (Bamboo) Stem Powder,

Benzyl Alcohol, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil,Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Biotin.”

My thoughts

I am going to set this up a little different than normal, I have a lot of thoughts on this little lady. 

The wand:


The wand is amazing. It really grabs each lash and helps to give the lashes Volume as it is intended to. But, it is also pretty large, so this isn’t doming that is easy to apply to the lower lashes. Which is fine, I’m extra enough to have a separate lower lash Mascara. 

The Formula:

This formula and I have a love/hate relationship. I love the length and volume it gives my lashes. But, damn do I hate how wet of a formula it is. If I had liner on my upper lash line it was fine, but if I didn’t good gracious could you see the transfer. It literally looked like I used a liner pen that was running out of ink and I just didn’t care. 

Then again, if I had my upper lash line well, lined, it was great! I mean….look!!


This Mascara is extremely easy to build. Now, keep in mind I’m in a phase where I’m digging the slightly clumped lash look. If that isn’t your taste you may not vibe with this Mascara if you like the “false affect”. I refuse to use falsies anymore, so it’s almost like a false lash placebo for me. 

I am giving this product 👻👻👻👻 . It lost a ghost because of how wet of a formula it has. I would not pay the full $25.95 for a four ghost product. But, would purchase it if it was on sale. 

If you would like to purchase The BWC Full Volume Mascara for yourself, of check out what else they have to offer, you can do so, HERE!

That’s it for my review. Thank you so much for stopping by! What are your thoughts on this Mascara? What is your favorite CF & Vegan Mascara? Comment below!

IG and SC @manda_janette 

Derma E Vitamin C Concentrated Serum | Sample Series 

Derma E is a brand I really love. It is cruelty free, vegan, and can be purchased on Ultas website! 

Tonight’s post is going to focus on the trial size of their VitaminC Concentrated Serum with Hyaluronic Acid.

Claims 

“This concentrated serum helps to brighten skin and boost collagen health, minimizing the look of fine lines and wrinkles while improving the appearance of uneven skin tone. Intensely moisturizing Hyaluronic Acid plus nonoxidizing Vitamin C work together to protect skin from environmental stresses, helping to prevent signs of aging. Soothing Aloe and Vitamin E deeply moisturize for a rejuvenated you.


We use a stable form of Vitamin C that won’t evaporate or alter before absorbing into your skin, to work better for you, naturally.”

Ingredients 

“Purified Water, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C, Stay-C® 50), Glycerin (Vegetable Derived) , Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid; Actimoist® Bio-1), Organic Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract*, Propanediol (Vegetable Derived), Microcrystalline Cellulose (Plant Derived), Cellulose Gum (Plant Derived), Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide (Vegetable Derived), Polymnia Sonchifolia (Yacón) Root Juice, Maltodextrin, Lactobacillus (Probiotic), Rosa Canina (Rosehip) Fruit Oil, Organic Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Gel Extract *, Allantoin, Panthenol (Provitamin B5), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (Plant Derived), Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Citrate, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylgylcerin, Natural Fragrance Oils.”

My Personal Experience with the product

I applied this product day and night, as directed. I found that it actually made my skin less dull and gave my dry skin more life to it. I really love it under makeup as a primer as well, it prevented my skin from drying out through out the day. 

💜💜💜💜💜 5/5 will purchase the full-size! I honestly believe it is well worth the $24.50 . I want to try the other products in the Derma E vitamin C line as well.

Thank you so much for reading! Have you tried this Serum yet? Comment your thoughts below! 

SC and IG @Manda_janette 

Vegan Cuts Gift Box| Spa Day Box

This was originally the “Serene Beauty” Box from August, now it is a Gift Box! I love that VC does this, you can get past boxes as gifts for people for just $25 and free shipping. This box has a retail value of $62.95, so it’s a steal! 

William Roam Sense Lotion $4.95


Luxurious, creamy moisturizing body lotion that leaves skin velvety soft and hydrated”

This lotion has the same scent as the Sense hair care by William Roam. I love that line and the scent is beautiful! I wish the notes were listed so I could describe it to you. The lotion itself is really nice. I was told by my new man friend that my hands were super soft after I applied it. So thank you William Roam. 

Sade Baron Fresh Luxe Body Mist


“Hydrating Mist for your face and body made with nourish antioxidants and extracts.”

First of all, isn’t this bottle cute? I love the blue. The body Mist is scented with Neroli, Ylang Ylang, and Bergamot. I love it! The scent is very clean and fresh, it will be perfect for next summer. Or if I need a little reminder during the cold weather coming up that it won’t last forever. 

Saiva Naturals Brightening Facial Serum $16


The card info for this product was wrong- it was for a lip balm. I will go more in-depth on its ingredients and such in my review for the Serum.

Who doesn’t want a good Serum? I recently ran out of the one I have been loving (review to come) so I was in need of another! The packaging for this sample is really nice by the way. It’s class with a sturdy dropper. A plus for that.

100% Pure Gemmed Gloss “MoonStone” $26


“Lip gloss with sheer coloring from fruit pigments and glimmer from semi precious gemstones”

I seriously want everything 100% Pure makes. I think I am going to pick up some palettes and face products soon, probably during a sale! 

Anyway, the product at hand. I find this product stunning. The fact that it is made wth semi precious gemstones gives me whimsical vibes. I love it.


The shade is a very sheer pink, this is going to look perfect over my 100% Pure Cocoa Semi Matte Lipstick in “Pink Canyon”!

Also, excuse my nails. I rarely paint them, and I actually don’t enjoy getting them done. But, when I do have them painted they get chipped to hell in a day or so. I think it’s the one beauty related thing I don’t enjoy. 🤷‍♀️

Derma E Rose Cleansing Oil $6


“Rinse free nourishing rose Cleansing oil that leaves your skin feeling moisturized and soft.”

I am lazy, and cleansing oils help me be lazy. On days where I don’t wear makeup I tent to use a rinse free way to clean my face. If I wear makeup Cleansing Oils are just the first step before actually washing my face. 

I am excited to try one from Derma E, it is a brand that has never disappointed me.

That’s it! What did you think? Comment below! I highly recommend checking out their gift boxes for the up coming holiday season, I know I will be gifting some! Thank you so much for reading. 💜

SC and IG @manda_janette 

Treat yourself! | My Pamper Routine

Alright guys. Let’s talk relaxation, self-care, let’s talk my personal pampering routine! 

Life can get stressful to say the least, and it can really bring you down. To keep a positive out look, and to de-stress, it is very important to show your self some love.  So, kick back, relax, and keep reading to find out what I do to give myself some much needed CRUELTY FREE pampering💜.

Masking

I always start off by applying a mask of some sort. I change up the products I use all the time, sense I do receive quite a bit of skin/body care.


Lately, I have really been loving the Palmeto Derma Rejuvenating Antioxidant Mask. It retails on their website for $64. 

Like any mask, you want to start off with clean skin, and apply with freshly washed hands. I leave it on for the full 30 mins. During this time I watch some YouTube and maybe have a glass of wine in bed.

This mask has a light scent and really leaves my skin feeling renewed. I actually just wash it off in the shower! 

Shower Time

During my pamper nights, I usually try out sample size products I have gotten. Tonight, I will be using…


The Fortune Cookie Soap “Black Pearl” Exfoliating Body Wash I got this when I used to get the Fortune Cookie Soap Box, which I may renew. It has a pretty warm scent, very nice for fall in my opinion! 


Evolv h Ultra Shine Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner $26 for the full sizes.

I have heard some fantastic things about this duo. I got them in a past Petit Vour Box. I am excited to finally give these little guys a go. They smell amazing by the way! I will be doing a review post, so keep your peepers peeled for that!

I would also check out the site eSalon! They have a ton of different hair treatments and Customizable hair colors, you could really find a fun way to go all out on your hair during your pamper routine.


Apoterra Tulsi Rejuvenating Oil $7 for the travel size on petitvour.com

I am in love with this oil. When I use it in the shower after I wash my self I apply it all over my body then just stand in the nice warm water. It makes my skin baby soft and gives the air a really relaxing scent. 

I also enjoy applying this oil to dry skin. It doesn’t get sticky or anything of that nature, it’s really nice to use before bed on normal nights as well. 

After Shower


The first thing I do is light a candle or some incense. My favorite incense combination is one called “warm and sensual” and the “patchouli”. It creates a really warm and earthy scent. I pick mine up from melscandles.com


I have really try lips, so I tackle them first! I am trying to get through my last jar of the Lush Bubble Gum Lip Scrub. It is my favorite lip scrub, but I have a ton I need to try out!


After scrubbing it is time to apply a lip balm. I really love the Shea Moisture Coconut and Hibiscus Lip balm. It taste great and it is inexpensive. I believe it is only around $6!


My last step is to apply a body lotion. I have fallen in love with the Sade Baron Body Cream in Jasmine. I got mine in a Vegan Cuts Box, but you can get it on the Sade Baron site for just $10!! 

It is really rich, and the scent isn’t too over whealming, so it’s perfect for really moisturizing dry skin. 

That’s the last step of my routine! Now it’s time to lay back with a drink and watch some YouTube. (Again.) I am really loving The Green Bunny, Ashley is very informative. 

That’s my routine guys! How do you Pamper yourself? Comment below! Thank you so much for reading 💜

SC and IG @manda_janette 


Vegan Cuts Gift Box|Lunar Love

Y’all I have some important information for you. You can buy past Vegan Cuts Makeup and beauty boxes on their website!!!

 I had canceled for two months while I was moving and changing jobs, so I was able to purchase the boxes I missed. 

Let’s see what’s inside the box!

Terre Mere Cosmetics Loose Bronzer “Sunstone” $15 


Loose bronzer, is not my forte. Besides, the bronzer is pretty orange and extremely shimmery. Even if it was pressed I wouldn’t bronze with it.


However, it will make a pretty eyeshadow. 

Green Tidings Natural Deodorant “Lavender”  $8


Aluminum free lavender scented roll on stick.”

I love trying random natural deodorant. It’s a way to find one that really works. I love the scent of lavender, so that’s already a good mark for this product. An information card for it was included in the box, which is awesome!

Leeanni Eco 3-in-1 Evolution “Light” $3.75


 Lotion for morning and night that acts as a toner, moisturizer, and serum all in one! Great for sensitive and combination skin.”

This product sounds awesome. And time saving. Potentially extremely cost affective. I really hope it works out, because I could really get behind this product.

Goddess Garden Lip Balm $4


“Organic beeswax-free lip balm powered by SPF 30 protection.”

Who can’t use a good SPF lip balm? I know I have super dry lips. Lip balm is always welcome. The flavor is raspberry, which sounds delicious!

The Wonder Seed Facial Scrub $12.95


“Soothing facial scrub made from hemp seed oil to reduce inflammation and hydrate skin.”

I have been wanting to try this facial scrub for quite awhile now, so I’m super excited to try it out! I will be updating y’all. The box also included an information card for the facial scrub, handy. I see on it that they make a shampoo and conditioner, now I want that as well. 🙄

Moon Souls Lunar Soak $11.95


“ Hand crafted bath soak made with Dead Sea salt, fresh rose buds and more.”

I, unfortunately, no longer have a bath tub. So, I will be putting this beautiful soak in a muslin sack and hanging it in my shower for an aromatic steam. I really love the aesthetic of this soak with the rose buds.

Great showing once again VC! $55.65 worth of products for only $25! 

What did you think of this box? Comment below! Thank you so much for reading!

SC and IG @manda_janette