Skinnygirl Daily On-The-Go Bars

March 10, 2013October 12, 2013 Coco

Founded by New York Times bestselling author Bethenny Frankel and health and wellness guru Matt Hesse, Skinnygirl Daily is a nutrition line that helps women look and feel their best. The bars are the perfect indulgent treat for individuals looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Included in my Influenster SweetHeart Voxbox was a full size of Skinnygirl Daily On-The-Go Bar!

I was lucky enough to get to try out the Coco-nut with peanut butter flavor! And wow! It was DELICIOUS! I am not a huge fan of super sweet things, so I was pleasantly surprised that it had just the right amount of sweetness. It was also crunchy AND soft. I really like how balanced this bar is.

Skinnygirl Daily On-The-Go Bars come in four flavors (I can’t wait to try them all!)

Banana Oatmeal Dark Chocolate
Coco-Nut with Peanut Butter
Dark Chocolate Multi-Grain Pretzel
Greek Yogurt Blueberry Crisp

I personally like to have a stash of nutrition bars that I can throw in my bag when I know I wont get a chance to eat, so having many options in my pantry is important. Overall, I really liked the Coco-Nut bar. The are two negatives I can see: availability (they can only be purchased online?) and price (they are on the expensive side). They do have a few incentives on their website, such as free shipping for orders over $29, and reoccurring special offers. But ignoring those issues, in my opinion the bar was very good. I actually ate half one night and the other half a few days later just to savor it.

As I said in my initial impression, I did not have a positive opinion of the brand based on the media, but now I think I may reconsider and give Skinnygirl a chance! I definitely want to try a Skinnygirl cocktail!

Check out the Product Page for the Skinnygirl Daily On-The-Go Bars at Influenster for more information and reviews, plus a 25% off code for your next purchase at Skinnygirl Daily!

Skinnygirl Daily products can be purchased via their website. Suggested retail price: $12.99 for a 5-pack.

Courtney’s Rating: B

Disclaimer: I received these products to test for free through the Influenster VoxBox program.

Secret Clinical Strength Stress Response

March 10, 2013October 12, 2013 Coco

Secret Clinical Strength is designed to provide prescription strength, extra-effective, wetness protection for women even with the most demanding body chemistries.

Included in my Influenster SweetHeart Voxbox was a full size of Secret’s Clinical Strength Stress Response deodorant in Serene Citrus!

As I said in my initial impression, I have never used a deodorant quite like this one! One thing I did not realize about this product is they recommend using it before bedtime, but you can use it in the mornings, too. The directions encourage you to use 2 “clicks” per underarm, but I find that one is usually enough.

I’m not a very heavy sweater, so I am not sure this product is specifically designed for me. But I can definitely see the benefits for using it when you know you will be doing something more active or stressful. I really like the fact that this product has a moisturizing effect. It really is like armpit lotion!

Not to mention how awesome the Serene Citrus scent is! I am very picky when it comes to fragranced products, but this one is wonderful!

Secret’s campaign for their new deodorant mainly focuses on the fact that it combats stress sweat, so for one of the challenges they asked us to tweet how it helped us! Here’s my tweet:

Midterms were last week! @secretdeodorant saved me from #stresssweat !! Thanks @influenster for the chance to try this awesome product!

— Courtney Clark (@theoceansblue) March 10, 2013

Here’s a little interesting information for you about sweat and stress:

Did you know there are actually three main causes of sweat? Sweat is induced by physical activity/exercise, environmental/heat and stress.

Stress sweat is different – it can happen instantaneously and smells the worst, because it comes from two different glands. Sweat from physical activity and heat comes from the Eccrine sweat glands – made up mostly of water. Stress sweat however also comes from a different gland, the Apocrine. The Aprocrine gland has more nutrients, which means more bacteria, which can cause more odor.

Secret Clinical Strength Stress Response offers a lot of protection from nasty armpit sweat, and keeps you smelling fresh all day (and sometimes even longer!). Overall, I was very impressed with the quality of this product. I had never used this kind of deodorant before, and was hesitant at first, but I am quickly becoming a fan!

You can find Secret products at most major retailers. Suggested retail price: $7.99-$9.99 for a 1.6oz.

Courtney’s Rating: A

Disclaimer: I received these products to test for free through the Influenster VoxBox program.

Poshmark… the new eBay for trendsetters?

March 10, 2013October 12, 2013 Coco

If you haven’t heard of Poshmark yet, then I apologize ahead of time for further addicting you to online shopping. I found Poshmark randomly one day a few months ago, and I have been addicted to it ever since!

So, what is Poshmark?

Poshmark is a simple and fun way to buy and sell fashion.
Shop the closets of women across America – and sell yours too!

Ever wish you had a style-mate and could shop her closet? Now you can. Poshmark connects you to people whose style you adore, allowing you to shop their closets, anytime you’d like.
Have items in your closet that you love, but just don’t wear anymore? List it for sale on Poshmark in less than 60 seconds. Sell what you have in your closet so you can shop for what you really love today.

With Poshmark, you’ll fall in love with your closet… again.

Check out this page to learn more about how Poshmark works: https://poshmark.com/what_is_poshmark

I personally have already sold $40 worth of shoes in my closet I had never worn and were just collecting dust. I have spent over $200 with Poshmark collecting James Avery jewelry, boots, perfume, etc. at a much lower cost than it would have been if I had bought them new somewhere else. Poshmark is an amazing resource for the fashion forward girls who are also on a budget.

I use Poshmark on my iPhone, which is sooo dangerous because I can shop ANY TIME I want. But I believe you can also shop via their website on a desktop computer.

Poshmark is a very cool, new shopping experience. And I can’t wait to experience its evolution as its popularity increases! I urge you, start poshing!

Country Outfitter and Corral Boots!

March 10, 2013 Coco

Last time I talked to you all about cowboy boots it was in-relation to a cheap pair I bought at Ross… well, somehow I have even more so become a huge fan of boots, and recently won two Country Outfitter $150 giveaways (One at I Love Farm Weddings and the other at A Thrifty Diva)! I had already been drooling over the beautiful Corral Boots, so I already knew which two pairs I’d be purchasing!

After waiting patiently for my gift cards to arrive, I ordered my first pair of REAL cowboy boots! The first gift card I used to purchase these beauties, my new dancing boots:

Corral Desert Red Goat Leather Boot – R1952

My second pair came awhile after, as there was a little delay in getting the 2nd gift card, but soon enough, I had my FAVORITE pair of boots on my feet!!! These boots are so beautiful, it’s shocking. Every time I wear them I feel like a million bucks!

Corral Yellow/Red/Turquoise Butterfly Boot – A1928

I wholly recommend Country Outfitter for your cowboy boots needs! They are a wonderful company, and I was actually shocked how fast my boots arrived to me despite them being back-ordered or something like that.

I think I am forever a cowgirl now and these will not be the last boots I purchase… I see an addiction beginning!

Influenster SweetHeart VoxBox

March 10, 2013March 22, 2014 Coco

Hey everyone! It has been awhile since I have posted here, due to my busy schedule with college and work, but when Influenster offered me another chance to review a VoxBox I could not turn down the opportunity! It is always so much fun and exciting to get a VoxBox!

Introducing, The SweetHeart VoxBox!

Influenster Postcard (quick breakdown on each product)

Olay Fresh Effects {Va-Va-Vivid!} Powered Contour Cleansing System ($12.99) including:

One {Shine, Shine, Go Away!} Shine Minimizing Cleanser .68oz

One electric facial cleansing brush

Secret Clinical Strength Stress Response 1.6oz ($7.99-9.99)

Skinnygirl Daily On-The-Go Bars: Coco-nut w/ peanut butter (5-pack – $9.99)

Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Sea Salt Spray – 2oz (8oz – $6.00)

Here are my first impressions of each item!

Olay Fresh Effects {Va-Va-Vivid!} Powered Contour Cleansing System

I didn’t realize the brush was electric until I started writing this post! The cleanser smells very good. It comes out a pearly silver color, and rubs on very smooth. So far, I am very impressed. But now that I know the brush is electric, I need to give it another test!

Secret Clinical Strength Stress Response
I have never used a deodorant like this one before! I was a little confused at first, but once I did I can say it works very well. Just don’t use too much!! It is smooth and lotion-y unlike traditional solid deodorants, but without the sticky feeling that comes with gel deodorants. You really get the best of both worlds! But most of all I love the fresh citrus scent!

Skinnygirl Daily On-The-Go Bars: Coco-nut
I haven’t been a fan of the Skinnygirl line (due to me negative opinion after watching Real Housewives NY), but I have to admit the bar was DELICIOUS! Sweet, but not too sweet. Crunchy, yet soft. I have no complaints, and I could totally see myself purchasing these!

Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Sea Salt Spray
I do not think I have the hair for this spray (my hair is SUPER FLAT and NEVER holds!), but I am interested in trying it out. Wish me luck!

Reviews to come soon!

Disclaimer: I received these products to test for free through the Influenster VoxBox program.

Sally Hansen Magnetic Nail Color in “Graphite Gravity”

August 21, 2012October 12, 2013 Coco

3-D Nail Art in Seconds! Revolutionary formula infused with metallic particles that move when exposed to the specially designed magnet to create an extraordinary effect.

Included in my Influenster Summer Beauty Voxbox was the new Sally Hansen Magnetic Nail Color in “Graphite Gravity”. The Magnetic Nail Color line currently comes in a total of 8 beautiful colors.

I have yet to try any of the cool, fancy nail polishes that have been cropping up in stores lately. I always thought the crackle nail polish effect was neat, but this is definitely a step up! I feel so futuristic wearing this smokey grey color.

I was a little hesitant at first, worried that it would not work right, but it is actually a very simply process; after applying a base coat (or none at all):

STEP 1: Shake Magnetic Nail Color to activate. Remove overcap with magnet and set aside. Apply 1 coat of Magnetic Nail Color to all 10 nails and let dry.

STEP 2: Apply a thick second coat of color to 1 nail and immediately hold the built-in magnet over the nail. Rest the guide just below the cuticle without touching the wet nail polish. Hold for 10 seconds. Repeat for all 10 nails and let dry.

Sally Hansen Magnetic Nail Color — “Graphite Gravity”

Once you are done, you will have a beautiful 3D design! I topped mine off with a good top coat to keep the nail polish long lasting.

I am fairly horrible at doing my nails, so a design like this is something I would never be able to accomplish on my own! It is so convenient to have the magnet on the lid of the polish, and removable, too. The polish is very easy to use and the whole concept it very convenient. It really is a one of a kind look, and incredibly cool! I can’t wait to buy more colors!!

Sally Hansen Magnetic Nail Color is available at many chain drug stores, food stores and mass merchandisers nationally. Suggested Retail Price: $9.99 per bottle.

Courtney’s Rating: A

Disclaimer: I received these products to test for free through the Influenster VoxBox program.

Clear Scalp & Hair Beauty Therapy

August 14, 2012October 12, 2013 Coco

The search for strong, beautiful hair is finally over. Formulated with Nutrium 10™, an advanced moisture complex of vitamins and nutrients, Clear Scalp & Hair Beauty Therapy nourishes the scalp, and creates the right foundation for strong, beautiful hair from root to tip in just 7 days.

Included in my Influenster Summer Beauty Voxbox was a sample size of Clear Scalp & Hair Beauty Therapy Total Care shampoo and conditioner.

I am not sure if I have heard of the Clear hair brand before, but the smell of the shampoo and conditioner was very familiar to me. I could swear I have smelled it before, either at a salon or possibly someone I knew used it before. Either way, I was very pleased to receive this product to test out. The thing is though – I don’t have hair care problems. Sure my hair gets tangled up sometimes, but overall… I have pretty perfect hair, other than the fact that it is straight 24/7 and does not have much body, my hair is very soft and healthy – my only problems being that it occasionally gets knotted easily. Because of this, I do not think that this hair therapy is the right fit for me, per se.

Anyways, I used the shampoo and conditioner a few times but I just did not see or experience anything that sets Clear Scalp & Hair Beauty Therapy apart from other shampoo and conditioner products. My favorite part of the product – the smell – did not last long once in the hair, or at least it was a lot more mild than what I personally prefer. Those who prefer the more mild scent will love this!

As a shampoo and conditioner set, it is a solid competitor to other similarly priced brands. But, as a hair therapy product, I cannot say for sure if it makes a difference. Anyone with scalp and hair issues would need to try and see if it works for themselves. I read on amazon reviews multiple times that there were issues with hair falling out, and that is definitely concerning. Everyone reacts differently to different products, so while it may work perfectly for one, it may not work at all or negatively for another.

For me, Clear Scalp & Hair Beauty Therapy was simply average. But for someone with hair issues, I would definitely recommend them to try the product!

Clear Scalp & Hair Beauty Therapy products are available at mass retailers, select drugstores and supermarkets nationwide. Suggested retail price: $4.99 – $5.99 per bottle.

Courtney’s Rating: B

Disclaimer: I received these products to test for free through the Influenster VoxBox program.

Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Lotion Sunscreen

August 3, 2012October 12, 2013 Coco

With its ultra-luxurious hydrating silk ribbons, Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration™ lotion sunscreen nourishes and pampers skin while providing broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection and 12-hour moisturization when out in the sun.

Included in my Influenster Summer Beauty Voxbox was a sample size of Hawaiian Tropic’s Silk Hydration Lotion Sunscreen with SPF 30.

My skin has always been very sensitive when it came to being in the sun for an extended amount of time, and because of this, I have always needed some kind of sunscreen to protect my skin from burning. My biggest complaint has always been that most sunscreens were, to be perfectly honest, gross! What I absolutely love about Hawaiian Tropic’s new Silk Hydration Lotion Sunscreens is that they are a sunscreen AND a lotion. The sunscreen applies more like a lotion, and less like a sticky or greasy sunscreen. The smell is also very pleasing with a hint of coconut and something else.

The Silk Hydration Lotion Sunscreen is very hydrating and keeps your skin moisturized during outside activities. I have used it on three separate occasions at the river; the lotion and the sunscreen did their job on every outing. Overall, I definitely could see myself continuing to use this product. It kills two birds with one stone by moisturizing while giving adequate sun protection.

You can find Hawaiian Tropic products at most major retailers. Suggested retail price: $8.99 for a 6oz bottle. Also available in SPF 12, 30, 50!

Courtney’s Rating: A

Disclaimer: I received these products to test for free through the Influenster VoxBox program.

Influenster Summer Beauty VoxBox

July 19, 2012October 12, 2013 Coco

It has been a little while since I have received an Influenster VoxBox so I was SUPER excited to be chosen once again to participate. I participated previously in the Cosmo, Holiday, and Love VoxBox’s and this time I am reviewing for the Summer Beauty VoxBox. I have been a member of Influenster for almost two years, and it is always a very enjoyable process. If you want to know more about Influenster, please check out my previous blog post by clicking here.

Introducing, The Summer Beauty VoxBox!

There are a bunch of diverse products, including nail products, food, sunscreen, hair care and even feminine products! The items included in my Summer Beauty VoxBox are listed below, along with a quick review and first look of the products!

Influenster Postcard (quick breakdown on each product)

Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Lotion Sunscreen SPF 30 sample

Tampax and Always Radiant Collection sample pack

Quaker Soft Baked Bar in Banana Nut Bread

Sally Hansen Magnetic Nail Color in 908 Graphite Gravity

Sally Hansen Nails and Cuticles Hand Creme sample

Clear Scalp & Hair Beauty Therapy – Shampoo & Conditioner samples

Here’s a quick review/my opinion of each product.

Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Lotion Sunscreen SPF 30

I went to the river yesterday and tested out the lotion. I love the fact that it is not only sunscreen, but ALSO a lotion. It is very hydrating, which is important when you are spending a long time in the sun. I love the smell, I do not know exactly what to describe it as… maybe coconut? Regardless, it is a very pleasant smell. By the end of our day at the river, I was not red at all, so the sunscreen also did the job!

Tampax and Always Radiant Collection

I already purchased this kit a few weeks prior to receiving my VoxBox, but I am happy to try them again. The kit comes with 1 scented pad, 3 unscented liners, two unscented tampons, and a cute purse to hold them all. I usually use tampons, and am already an avid user of Tampax Pearl, but unfortunately I did not care for the Radiant tampons.. they are definitely better than many other brands, but I prefer the Pearl ones. I did, however, love the pads and liners and have already purchased more.

Quaker Soft Baked Bar in Banana Nut Bread

I ate my bar almost immediately after opening my VoxBox. The bar is chewy, slightly crunchy and very moist with lots of crushed nuts. It was also very filling, and the bar seemed to be the perfect size for a snack.

Sally Hansen Magnetic Nail Color in 908 Graphite Gravity

This was my first time using a magnetic type of nail polish, so I was not sure what to expect. But the process is very simple: just apply two coats, and hold the magnet over the second coat directly after applying. I love the design it gives, it is very unique. I am not a big fan of dark nail colors, but this looked very cool with the 3d effect!

Sally Hansen Nails and Cuticles Hand Creme

I already have fairly soft hands, so hand creme is not a must for me. That being said, I really did like the product for what it is. My hands felt very smooth and moisturized. I love the scent of citrus and shea butter mixed together. It also seemed to last a long time after applying. Anyone who uses hand cremes will surely love this product!

Clear Scalp & Hair Beauty Therapy

I am not sure if I have heard of the Clear hair brand before, but the smell of the shampoo and conditioner smelled familiar. I don’t really have hair care issues, so I will have to see if it benefits me. Either way, I really like the presentation of the bottles. And having Heidi Klum as their spokesperson is pretty neat!

Disclaimer: I received these products to test for free through the Influenster VoxBox program.

Freeman Feeling Beautiful Peel-Off and Clay Facial Masks

July 1, 2012October 12, 2013 Coco

I stopped into Walgreens for a quick trip and spotted these Freeman facial masks near my usual brand for face masks. I was hesitant to switch, but the Freeman face masks were on sale (Buy One Get One Free) and only $3.99 each to begin with… way better priced then what I was buying before. It was a no-brainer, I grabbed one of each and checked out. I do not know much about the Freeman brand, but in my research I found they were founded in 1976 and based in the Beverly Hills area of Los Angeles in California. They are a subsidiary of pH Beauty Labs, Inc. The facial masks are a part of their Feeling Beautiful collection that have “all natural extracts from mother earth’s bounty of fruits, oats and botanicals… combined to make you look and feel your unique personal best.”

Below are my reviews of the two face masks I purchased:

Avocado & Oatmeal Facial Clay Mask

Directions: apply mask to face and neck, avoiding contact with eyes. Let dry and rinse with warm water. This amazing clay mask purges pores and draws out excess oils and dirt. Skin is left feeling clean and soft. Perfect for normal to oily skin.

The first thing I noticed was the smell: it was not that pleasant. Now I am not saying it was ‘bad,’ but it most certainly was not good either. I love Avocados but I am not sure I love them on my face so close to my nose! I am sure some people will like it, but I personally did not. You do get used to the smell, however, and it is not that noticeable. The formula is a light green and goes on very smooth and creamy. I did not notice any stinging or irritation, but there was a light tingle. I left it on about 20 minutes, and when finished it washed off very quickly and easily. I immediately noticed how smooth and fresh my skin felt and even the next morning it was still very supple. I have absolutely no complaints, other than the smell is not my first choice. I will definitely purchase again in another scent.

COURTNEY’S RATING: A
6.0 oz (Orig. $3.99) from FreemanBeauty.com

Cucumber Facial Peel-Off Mask

Directions: Apply evenly to face, avoiding eye area, Leave on 5-10 minutes or until dry. Gently peel off mask. Rinse with warm water. This ever so fun mask gently peels away impurities while Cucumber extract leaves skin silky smooth. Perfect for normal to combination skin.

This is my first experience with a Peel-Off Mask, and I was very intrigued by the process. The formula is a thick, sticky almost honey-like substance. It applies and dries clear, so it is somewhat hard to know if you have missed a spot. It is a little messier than the clay mask process, but overall not very difficult. I am not a huge fan of Cucumber smells, but I decided to give it a try anyway. Unfortunately, I still do not like Cucumber, which is not a fault of the product, just personal preference. It is not a very strong smell, so that is a plus and like the Avocado, you get used to it after awhile. The mask has a light cooling sensation in the beginning, and while it dries your skin feels very tight. You MUST let the mask dry completely (leaving no sticky spots) for removal. I was able to peel off the entire mask in about a minute in one piece going slowly. It felt like pulling off an extra layer of dead skin. The mask left my skin super clean and healthy looking, I am very pleasantly surprised. I definitely want to include peel-off masks into my routine.

COURTNEY’S RATING: B+
6.0 oz (Orig. $3.99) from FreemanBeauty.com

Overall, I love the bottles and the ability to choose how much I want to use. Some face masks come in single serving packets, which I thought was cool at first, but this is much more convenient and useful (but if you like the packets, they have those available for $1.99 each!). I would really love to try their other Clay Masks to find a smell more suited for me!

Shorts and shoes for summer!

July 1, 2012 Coco

I went shopping again! Sometimes when you are feeling down, retail therapy is the best. I stopped at Ross again and found 3 more pairs of sandals (well 4 if you count the pair I bought for a friend, Zebra print Madden Girl Sandals) at about $10-13 each (The brands were Nicole and City Classified if you are wondering). Last time I found that pair of strappy silver sandals and I was pretty excited to have a new pair, but this time I am even more happy with what I found. They are way cuter!

I hit the jackpot in blue jean shorts, finding three pairs of short shorts for $10 each at JCPenney (brands Soundgirl and Truce). I went at the perfect time because they had racks on racks on racks of discounted blue jean shorts, and I was able to try on at least 15 pairs that fit. Usually I am lucky to find one pair, so three pairs was fantastic.

Lastly, I went into Walgreen’s to show a friend the Essie Rock Solid treatment and ended up splurging on their $8 nail polish called “A Cut Above” from their luxeffects collection. I also found a few awesome steals, two Freeman face masks for $3.99 buy one get one free and Maybelline’s Instant Age Rewind Protector Finishing Powder that was ‘Last Chance’ and half off for $4.49. I will probably do reviews for both of these products once I have tried them out.

As always, some pics:

Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Protector Finishing Powder

(click to enlarge)

Am I becoming a Cowgirl?

June 27, 2012 Coco

I went out to dinner with my mom and dad, had a nice margarita and then my dad wanted to show us Bucky’s (a HUGE gas station that has food courts and clothes, etc!) because apparently it is super cool. Honestly it is kinda overrated, but for a gas station, I have to admit it IS pretty nice. Afterward we stopped at Ross Dress For Less and that is where the magic happened!

I know, I know… I bought black boots just last month at Charlotte Russe, but these (pictured below) are brown Charles Albert boots and they are SUPER adorable. They were $16.99 (and previously $39), so not really a SICK steal, but they are still very cute and I love them. For a more daily look, I found a pair of Sam & Libby silver strappy sandals for $12.99 (orig. $45).

I also found a very pretty Ice brand dress for $24.99, and get this: it was originally $138! Ridiculous, right?! I would NEVER pay that much for a dress let alone THIS dress, but it is very cute and I cannot wait to wear it and the boots to Cowboys soon since we did not end up going last month! As always, it looks way better in person and the material feels very lush! Lastly I picked up this fancy-ish Expressa shirt for $11.99 (orig. $36), and it kinda fits the whole cowgirl theme… I honestly never thought I would become the kind of girl who wears cowboy boots, but honestly… I could get used to it! They are sooooo cute!

Pics~

(click to enlarge)