Influenster

My Mentos Pure Fresh Moment Contest!

Coco

Unfortunately, the following story is true… although admittedly slightly over-dramatized for effect :P

My story is not one of romantic or sweet anecdotes. Mine is one on the embarrassing side! The thing you have to know about me is that I, like countless other gum aficionados, love to chew gum! I chew it all the time and I’m usually the go to girl if you want to ‘score’ a piece of gum. I have my own personal stash of gum packages at home, so I usually never run out. I’m also pretty easy going when it comes to sharing (except when I’m on my last piece of course). But the negative side of being an avid gum chewer is the mess. My purse or backpack was usually filled with lots of foil wrappers because I’d save and use them to put the old gum in to throw away later, and if I didn’t clean out my bags routinely it could start to pile up.

Well, during finals week, I had lost track of my usual routine clean-up and the gum wrappers had accumulated to a new level as my chewing habits increased with my stress level of finals. On my way to my last final of the week this past Wednesday, I was a wreck. I slung my purse over my shoulder to begin the trek from the library to class. In the seconds it took for me to toss my purse, it felt like painful slow motion as I lost hold of the straps. I tried to catch it mid air, but the purse flung onto the floor and the contents of my bag were thrown with it.

ALL OF MY GUM WRAPPERS came out of my bag and landed onto the library floor. I was mortified. In hindsight, probably not many people paid much attention to what I had done, but in that moment it felt as though hundreds of eyes were on me as I scooped the huge amount of wrappers back into my bag. I left the library, my head hung in shame. I immediately went into the nearest rest room, threw the foil wrappers into the trash, and then went to take my psychology final.

Mentos Pure Fresh GumWith my final over and the stress of the fall semester behind me, my mind wandered to the day’s earlier events. I had already received and opened my Holiday VoxBox and sampled the Mentos gum inside, and as I sat there chewing the yummy Fresh Mint flavor, a thought hit me! The next day, I went straight into the store and picked up a few containers of Mentos Pure Fresh Mint Gum. Mentos Pure Fresh Gum didn’t necessarily give me one moment I’ll look back on and remember fondly; Mentos gave me a lifestyle change and that’s worth more to me. Gum wrappers no more! Thanks Mentos & Influenster!

This is my entry for the “My Mentos Pure Fresh Moment” Contest. Click here for more information.

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

Influenster Holiday VoxBox

Coco

Today my Influenster Holiday VoxBox arrived in the mail! If you don’t know what Influenster is, then you’re missing out! But no worries, click here to learn all about it in my previous blog post on Influenster! Like a bunch of other lucky Influensters, I was chosen to receive the Holiday VoxBox – I was super excited when I got the notification on my profile! It’s so awesome to be chosen two times in a row for a VoxBox. So, without further ado, the Holiday VoxBox:

I was literally racing the rain for this picture. Once I finally had all of the products displayed how I wanted them, it started to sprinkle, but luckily I got this shot before I was forced back inside. I was a little suprised at how small this month’s VoxBox was in comparison to November’s Cosmo VoxBox. But sure enough, it was jam packed with a bunch of cool goodies!

    • Influenster Postcard (quick breakdown on each product)
    • imPRESS Press-On Manicure by Broadway Nails in 240 Tweetheart (Red)
    • Softsoap Coconut Scrub Bar Soap
    • Montagne Jeunesse Face Mask in Strawberry Souffle (Trial Size)
    • New York Color (NYC) Liquid Lip Shine in 582 Nude York City + $1 off coupon
    • Mentos Pure Fresh Gum in Fresh Mint
    • Larabar Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bar + Info packet including a $1 off coupon

And I also recieved a Bonus Item!

    • Proactiv’s X Out Wash-in Treatment + Instructional Sheet

There were three total bonus items but I only qualified for X Out, I didn’t receive these but I figured I’d list them anyways:

  • Garden Botanika Heart Perfume
  • Garden Botanika Lash Primer

I had taken individual pictures of each product as I did with the picture above, but I accidentally deleted them on my iPhone :( So I’ll have to use stock photos for this quick overview of the items.

imPRESS Press-On Manicure
imPRESS Press-On Manicure
I’ve never been a huge fan of glue/press-on nails, but these look like good quality and I’m excited to get them on. I got the color “Tweetheart” which is a darker red than the red pictured in the stock photo. It looks perfect for Christmas time; they come in 36 different colors and patterns!

 

Softsoap Coconut Scrub Bar SoapSoftsoap Coconut Scrub Bar Soap
I’m not much of a soap bar user, but this coconut scrub might force me to have to change my shower habits! The coconut soap smells so good — just through the box! I can’t wait to try it!

 

 

Montagne Jeunesse Face Mask
Montagne Jeunesse Face Mask
I’ve never heard of this brand and the packaging kinda scares me a bit LOL but I’m definitely interested to see how this ‘Strawberry Souffle’ smells.. am I going to want to lick my face?? It’s only a trial size tho, so I only get one time to test it.

 

NYC New York Color Liquid Lip Shine

NYC New York Color Liquid Lip Shine
I was given the ‘Nude York City’ color, which is true to it’s name: a nude. It’s glittery and smells of chocolate! At only $2.49 each, I’m sold!

 

 

 
Mentos Pure Fresh GumMentos Pure Fresh Gum
I love gum! And this one is so tasty! I’ve already chewed a few pieces and I’m already hooked… guess I’ll have to stop at the gas station later…

 

 

Larabar

Larabar
Mmmm! I can barely contain myself, I’m ready to eat it now! I’ve never heard of Larabar, but apparently it’s a big thing. I’ve been listening to the youtube reviews on them and I can’t believe I never tried them! I got ‘Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough’!

 

 

X Out Wash-in Treatment
X Out Wash-in Treatment
As a bonus product, I received Practiv’s new X Out treatment. As opposed to their 3-step system, X out is a 1-step, twice daily treatment! Seems more hassle free than the 3-step program, and might actually work for me! Awesome!

 

It’s such an honor to be chosen once again to review items, and I can’t wait to get started!

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

Proactiv Solution 3-Step Acne Treatment System

Coco

Designed for daily use for the prevention and treatment of acne, the Proactiv 3-Step System gently cleanses and exfoliates while attacking acne-causing bacteria in the pores and helping to soothe inflammation.

Included in my Influenster Cosmo Voxbox was the Proactiv 3-step system. The 3-step system includes the Renewing Cleanser, Revitalizing Toner, and Repairing Treatment.

First Impression:

It’s hard to have a first impression on a product as well known as Proactiv, but I was immediately excited to try it when I saw it inside of my VoxBox. I had never used Proactiv before, but grew up seeing Proactiv commercials on TV. The 3-Step System comes with the Renewing Cleanser, Revitalizing Toner, and Repairing Treatment. Each bottle is marked with a large 1, 2, or 3, so the system is very simple to understand. I started my 30-day challenge the next day, on November 1st. On a side note: I also stopped wearing makeup for a 30-month challenge/bet with my friends.

Application:

The application of Proactiv if very straightforward. You use the products in order every morning and/or night. At first I tried using Proactiv in both the mornings and nights, but soon it became to difficult for me to keep up the twice daily routine, and cut it down to mornings. Unfortunately, the repairing cleanser left behind a little white residue on my skin, so I decided to switch to nights only. Once I figured out my routine, I began using Proactiv either every night or every other night. The results were not immediate, but after the first 2-3 weeks, I noticed my skin clearing up drastically. I’ve never had horrible acne, but the problem spots that plagued me were disappearing. I don’t know whether Proactiv did it or the not wearing makeup, but I definitely have noticed a change in my skin. Here’s a quick overview of the Proactiv steps:

Step 1: Renewing Cleanser: Apply a small (dime-sized) amount to dampened skin and gently massage over the whole face. Rinse thoroughly with warm water, pat dry. Follow with Revitalizing Toner.
Step 2: Revitalizing Toner: Apply to cleansed skin with cotton ball or pad, morning and night. Allow Toner to dry and follow with the acne fighting Repairing Treatment. If irritation or sensitivity develops, discontinue use of both products and consult a doctor.
Step 3: Repairing Cleanser: Use morning and night. On thoroughly clean skin, apply a thin layer of our acne treatment lotion to the entire affected area. Allow to dry. Do not rinse off. If dryness occurs, use our Green Tea or other noncomedogenic moisturizer. If dryness continues, reduce application use.

Warnings: When using this product, using other topical acne medications at the same time or immediately following use of this product, may increase dryness or irritation of the skin. If this occurs, only one medication should be used unless directed by a doctor. Do not use this medication if you have very sensitive skin or if you are sensitive to Benzoyl Peroxide. This product may cause irritation, characterized by redness, burning, itching, peeling or possibly swelling. Keep away from eyes, lips and mouth. Avoid product contact with hair and dyed fabrics, including carpets and clothing which may be bleached by this product. If going outside, use a sunscreen. Keep out of reach of children. If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.

Bottom Line:

Overall, I believe Proactiv is a great product. At $20 dollars for a 30-day supply that can last multiple months, it really is a great investment. The cleansers and toner work great together, but also amazing solo. Admittingly, Proactiv probably isn’t the best acne treatment out there and it isn’t going to work for everyone, but you don’t need a prescription and the price is affordable. When Proactiv works, it works wonders. I would recommend those with bad acne to try Proactiv, because it might be the solution they’ve been looking for. For more information on buying and directions, please visit Proactiv’s website or call the directly at 1-888-819-2019.

Courtney’s Rating: B+

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

Gillette Venus ProSkin MoistureRich Razor

Coco

Gillette Venus ProSkin MoistureRich Razor

The Venus ProSkin MoistureRich razor is designed with MoistureRich shave gel bars, enhanced with a triple blend of body butters, which create a layer of protection for your skin with every stroke.

Included in my Influenster Cosmo Voxbox was the Venus ProSkin MoistureRich Razor from Gillette with two refill cartridges. Check out Gillette’s website for more information on the razor!

First Impression:

The packaging design is very appealing in soft blue tones. Once removed from the package, I initially was skeptical of the razor. I don’t have much experience with gel or soap bars, but this one definitely looked flimsy, and I expected the soap to immediately fall off as soon as I started shaving. Despite my doubts, I attached my new shaver to its suction hanger and waited for the morning to try it out.

Application:

I first decided to shave under my arms, luckily I hadn’t for the last few days, and so the timing was perfect to test out the razor. With the first stroke, I was not impressed and ready to write off the Venus razor, but within the next few tries, my armpits were silky, smooth and hairless. I can honestly say that this was the most pleasant experience with shaving I have had in a long time. I was shocked at how close the razor shaved! Legs were next and it was the same results, the gel left my legs smooth and smelling fresh. And on a more personal level, the razor even did a decent job on the bikini line and pubic hair areas. (Although, Venus has a Bikini Trimmer that might be useful for those specific areas.) The only downside I can see is that the attached soap seems to be used rather quickly, and buying refill cartridges could get pricey. But I suspect this is common with any gel bar razors, and the smooth finish might be worth the extra cost.

Bottom Line:

The Gillette Venus ProSkin MoistureRich Razor is definitely a great option for shaving and after experiencing such a pleasant shave, I don’t think I will ever be able to go back to plain razors. I will, no doubt, be purchasing refill cartridges in the future.  You can purchase the package set of 1 Venus® ProSkin™ MoistureRich® Women’s Refillable Razor, 2 Razor Blade Refill Cartridges, and 1 shower hook for under $10 and subsequent refill cartridges cost about $15 for a 4-count pack.

Courtney’s Rating: A

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

Vitabath® Spa Day™ Cucumber & White Tea Body Wash

Coco

Vitabath® Spa Day™ - Cucumber & White Tea - Body Wash

Keep it cool with refreshing crisp cucumber mixed with soft water florals and soothing white tea.

Included in my Influenster Cosmo Voxbox was one of Vitabath’s new body washes. Touting a Sulfate & Paraben Free formula rich in Vitamin A, B3, B5, C & E, Vitabath’s four Fragrance Collection Body Washes (Fruit Fanatic, In Bloom, Spa Day, and Cupcake Couture) currently include 16 unique fragrances that will surely leave your skin feeling clean, refreshed and vibrant. For this review, I received the “Cucumber & White Tea” fragrance.

First Impression:

The Vitabath body washes come in very simple, colorful bottles. I’m always a big fan of good design aesthetics, so I was super excited to try the body wash based solely on the cute bottle design; I would definitely gravitate towards Vitabath products in a store. The Cucumber & White Tea bottle is a deep blue-green color with pink flowers, as shown in the stock photograph above, and is slightly reminiscent of the Arizona Green Tea bottles. Upon opening the lid, there was a strong floral scent. I couldn’t place the cucumber, but the white tea was very present. I was a little apprehensive by how strong the smell was from the bottle, but my opinion on that changed with application.

Application:

I found the bottle a little hard to open with wet hands, because the cap closes so tightly, but I managed after a few tries. I applied only a few drops of the body wash to my bath pouf and that little amount was sufficient for a full body scrub. The scent is a lot more subtle on the skin than it is in the bottle, so that was a relief. I did think it might be too subtle at first, but the softness is actually very appealing and as I’m sitting here typing this review, I can’t stop smelling myself! A few hours later, the smell is still there slightly, but not as much as I would have wished. Sadly, I am a little disappointed that the scent hasn’t stayed longer. And as a fragrance collection, I expected the perfume to be longer lasting. Overall, the body wash left me feeling beachy, sexy and clean. And the little whiffs of the body wash I get throughout the day make me smile.

Bottom Line:

At $9.99, the cost is a little pricey for only 12oz, but the fact that a little product goes a long way is a plus. Will I be purchasing another Vitabath product when my body wash runs out? Definitely! But I might try a few different Vitabath body washes before I settle on just one.

The Fragrance Collection body washes retail for $9.99 or less each at www.myvitabath.com and at ULTA Beauty, Harmon Discount, Stages, Duane Reade, Fred Meyer and Bed Bath & Beyond stores.

Courtney’s Rating: B

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

Influenster & my Cosmo VoxBox

Coco

I signed up with Influenster about a month ago, because my friend Michelle encouraged me to join. Influenster is a “community of trendsetters invited to share their lifestyles and show their influence to qualify for personalized product shipments, special rewards and exclusive deals from the brands they love. Members love testing the latest products, giving insightful feedback, and spreading the word on their favorite finds!” And the best part about it? It’s absolutely FREE! Michelle had already received a VoxBox and enjoyed the process, so I decided to give it a try. I wasn’t initially active in the community, but within a few weeks, I received an email saying I had been chosen to receive the Cosmo VoxBox! It was a shock, because I figured I wouldn’t even be considered because I was so inactive after joining! Luckily, they give new members a chance to become involved, and I patiently awaited my first VoxBox!

Registered members “play the game” by unlocking badges that reflect their lifestyle, expertise and power to influence. By earning badges that tell us more about you, Influensters can qualify for VoxBoxes (complimentary packages of products to test & review), rewards (bonus giveaways/discounts) and other special promotions targeted toward our most active and influential members! Learn more at Influenster.com!

I came home after a night of trick or treating with a friend’s kids on Halloween night, and upon checking the mail, I had finally received my Cosmo VoxBox!  It was the best “treat” of the night! Included in my Cosmo Voxbox: (you can click the products below to see my review of them on this blog!)

Influenster Cosmo VoxBox

 

Amazingly, Influenster ships the full-size products for FREE! As I mentioned before, this is my first VoxBox and so, I’m still learning the ways of Influenster, but below are a few tips and a quick outline of what you do once you have a VoxBox! I recommend checking out their site and learning more about Influenster because it really is an awesome source! Sign-up ASAP!

What’s next?

“When you get your VoxBox in hand, please login to your Influenster.com profile to ‘check in’ your box. Next, start integrating these products into your routine and developing your opinions on each. We’ll follow up in a few weeks with your (mandatory) Product Evaluation Survey.”

How to be an Active Member

Influenster encourages members to spread the word for products they are excited to test, and for the brands they rate positively! Once you have your products, here are some immediate ideas on how you can be an active member:

SHARE ON SOCIAL MEDIA!
~Upload a photo of your VoxBox products, tell us which ones you are most excited to test.

MAKE A VIDEO!
~Make a VoxBox video where you unveil your products and talk about which ones you are most excited to test or a video featuring your favorite product talking about your amazing experience trying it.

BLOGS
~Feature your VoxBox products in your blog and share which ones you are most excited to test.

Note from Influenster: Although we send complimentary products to qualified members (and love doing so!), Influenster is NOT a ‘freebie’ website where just anyone can get free products.  You have been handpicked among a large pool of members to receive this VoxBox at no cost because of your influential power and willingness to share your positive experiences with your networks.

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