Five Minute Work Makeup Routine

I'm definitely that girl that lays in bed scrolling Instagram for too long and I like to enjoy my morning coffee on the couch. But, I'll rush to get ready and eat breakfast in the car. I can typically get ready for work in 30 minutes, even 15-ish minutes at times with my hair curled! I wanted to share my quick makeup routine to look presentable at work but not be late. If you're interested in seeing my full coverage makeup routine (think blog photos, fancy date nights, or weddings) then check out this video.

I start with the It Cosmetics CC cream. You can read my full and very honest review of it here. I recently switched to the fair shade and mix a little bit of light in it to get a better color match. I use this for work because it targets multiple needs: it doesn't require a primer, has skincare benefits, covers SPF, and offers great coverage. I use half a pump and just use my clean hands to apply it to my face.

Conceal under my eyes with the Naked Skin Concealer. This is a repurchase (x2) and I love the consistency of it. I don't really have super dark circles but I love to brighten under my eyes. Some concealers give me a clogged pore under my eye if they're too heavy or fragranced, and this one has passed the test. It's just thick enough to cover but doesn't look cakey.

I add a little definition back into my skin with this Chanel Bronze Universal along my cheek bones and hairline. I've had this thing for years, it will last you forever! I typically use this drugstore brush to get the most natural application.

I use the Benefit Gimme Brow (also here) for a quick fix to my super light blonde eyebrows. It gives you color and is very natural on it's own, so if you need defined and perfect brows to leave the house you'll need to use something else in addition to this! When I get ready for a weekend event or blog photos, I typically use this on top of the Anastasia Brow Wiz to get a more defined brow. You can watch my full-faced makeup routine in this video.

Instead of applying eyeshadow, I swipe MAC's painterly paint pot all over my lid to even it out. If I have the time I also apply this brightening stick to my inner corner and brow bone to wake up my face.

Line with this waterproof brown liner ($10!). I got this last year on my honeymoon after Delta forgot our luggage for a day and it's great for a quick line! My favorite liner is gel eyeliner because it coats the very base of my blonde eyelashes, but I typically don't have the time in the morning to get out the brush and apply it. Since I'm not wearing eyeshadow, I try to apply a thinner line to make my lashes pop more.

Two coats of my holy grail mascara. What's the point of only applying one?! I usually always have to clean up my mascara on my lids after with a q-tip. Which is a big reason I don't bother with eyeshadow most days.

Finish with a tinted chapstick or a one of these glosses. I usually don't add anything to my lips until I park at work because I normally eat in the car on the way there, ha!

TIPS TO GET READY QUICKER:

• Have the products laid out so you're not digging for what you want. I typically keep the mentioned products out on my desk during the week and put them away on the weekend.
• Once you get a routine down, it will get quicker! Save the beauty trials and new products for the weekend in case you're not a fan.
• Use palettes to save time between opening new blushes and eyeshadow colors
• Keep touch up items in your bag. I don't start with powder in the morning, but I always keep some in my bag along with a lipgloss or two to touch up after work. 

Then I typically run this curling iron through my hair (20% off!), get dressed, and grab a bar as I head out the door. What does your morning routine look like?

If you're a Sephora VIB, you can shop these products for 20% off from November 10-15th with code 20FORVIB

If you're a beauty insider, you can get 15% off from November 10-15th with code INSIDERS15 (if you're not already you can sign up here). 

xo Amanda John 

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Fishtail Braid Tutorial for Beginners

Here is a simple step-by-step tutorial on how to do a messy fishtail braid on yourself. I used to save braids for the beach, but lately I've had a lot of fun experimenting with different braids to mix up my typical soft curled hairstyle. 

You will need:

a few bobby pins

2 clear elastic hair ties

hairspray

scissors

optional:

hair extensions (I'm wearing these c/o)

curling iron

 I like to twist my "bangs" and pin them back to keep them in place during the day. I just twist a small section and pin it with a bobby pin.

 I don't typically do this step anymore, but I think if you're just starting out this step makes it easier to start the fishtail braid. Use an extra clear elastic at the top to help keep your hair together as you learn the braid. You will cut this at the end when the fishtail braid is complete. Then separate your hair into two equal sections. 

 Grab a thin piece of hair from the outside of section one, then cross it over to section two. I prefer to use smaller sections even though it will take a little bit more time. It adds more dimension and texture to the braid. 

Repeat that step by grabbing an outside piece from section two and cross it over to section one. I like to tighten the braid between each section as I go. 

You'll repeat this crossing technique until you're happy with the length of the braid. Secure the end with a clear elastic hair tie. 

Pull and separate the length of the braid until your desired messiness is achieved. Then tighten the end of the brain by dividing it into two sections and pulling them apart. This will make the ends look a little thicker. 

Carefully cut the top clear elastic, then finish with hairspray. 

If you have layered hair, you will need to use bobby pins to tuck in little fly aways into the braid (see how in the video below). Curls the ends of your hair if desired, but be careful to avoid touching the elastic band. I've learned from experience theses will easily break if they touch the hot tool! I also like to curl a piece in the front on the side opposite of the braid to add some balance to the look. 

I also filmed a video if you want to watch the step by step process below. If you're looking for my ruffled top, it's currently sold out. I'll keep my eyes peeled for a re-stock and if you come across one in stock definitely size up!

I'd love to see how your fishtail braid turned out! Tag me on Instagram with your finished braids (@strawberrychicxo)

Thank you for reading,

xo Amanda John 

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FULL COVERAGE MAKEUP ROUTINE

 

I finally sat down and filmed my full coverage makeup routine. This is my go-to routine when getting ready for blog photos, filming, or a special occasion. It takes me about 20-30 minutes give or take. Most of the products mentioned have been in my routine for Y E A R S. I definitely stick to what I like once I find a good product. 

The one thing I typically mix up in this routine is the foundation, blush color, and lip products. I do think this foundation has good coverage, but it will oxidize a little orangy on me by the end of the day. I'm still on the hunt for the perfect full coverage foundation that isn't too matte, drying, and/or cakey... if you have a good recommendation for me I'd love to hear!

I've had more and more request to add more video content to my blog so I would love to hear your thoughts on what you've seen so far. I'm definitely still learning the shooting (lighting, sound, talking... lol) and editing process, along with trying to build up the confidence it takes to film yourself. I struggle with even posting to snapchat/instagram stories... so this is definitely out of my 

C O M F O R T zone. 

Thanks for stopping by!

xo Amanda John 

IT Cosmetics CC Cream Review

Today I'm sharing a review on the It Cosmetics CC cream. It's a medium+ coverage all in one foundation that I've repurchased multiple times. I first fell in love with the product while on vacation in the summer of 2014 (sounds so romantic), and my mom also became a fan after I had her try it on the same trip. She still uses it today! I, however, have moved on to try other things. Keep reading to see why.

What It Claims:

"Clinically shown to give you 179% of skin hydration, smooth skin texture and enhance skin brightness, this breakthrough color-correcting cream never creases or cracks and instantly camouflages skin imperfections including dark spots. Plus, it’s infused with an advanced anti-aging serum made of hydrolyzed collagen, peptides, niacin, hyaluronic acid, antioxidants and vitamins A, B, C and E that work in harmony to diffuse the look of wrinkles, minimize pores and give you a more radiant, supple and flawless-looking complexion."

Sounds like a sweet deal.  Let's see about all that.

Ingredients in It Cosmetics CC Cream:

I'm not going to list them all out because who even know's what all of that is?! Not this girl. but you can read them all here if that's your thing. There's definitely A LOT going on in the list, but I guess that's why they claim it does so many things.

Pros of It Cosmetics CC Cream:

• Pump Applicator 
• SPF 50
• Coverage (medium to full coverage)
• Easy to blend
• Natural Glow
• Cruelty -Free 
• Hydrating

I've been using this product for a few years now, and I've turned my mom and her sisters onto it since as well. Not to speak about their age or anything, but I think that shows it's a product that can work with various age groups and not settle into lines. I have never noticed emphasized pores when using this product. I actually didn't even know I had large pores until I started using a new product, but more on that in a different post!

The coverage of this product combined with the hydration can be a scary combo, but IT actually does a great job in both aspects with this product. As long as the color matches, it really does look like "your skin but better." 

I can't really tell if it's done anything for brown spots / anti ageing because I've always had freckles that come in the summer and lighten through the winter months, though I can assume the SPF in the product helps to limit exposure and creating new spots. I do question if I get the full benefit of SPF because I don't use a full pump, so if I plan to be in the sun for some time I do apply my own sunscreen underneath to be safe.

So I don't use a full pump? No, because I can get a comfortable amount of coverage for just half the pump amount, which is a bonus because the product lasts me twice as long. I find that a full pump emphasizes the cons I discuss next. 

Cons of It Cosmetics CC Cream:

Color Range

The limited color range is biggest negative for me, and it seems like I'm not the only one when I looked up some reviews. Most people will require two colors to mix into their perfect shade, and it's way too pricey for that when you can find another suitable color for you somewhere else. This is the main reason I've stopped using it right now. The fair is too gray/ light for me but the light it way too deep + orangey on my pale winter skin tone. When comparing the "light" shade to other light shades, this one is definitely always deeper. It works for me when I self-tan, so I'll probably return to using it in the summer time.

Finish

This product doesn't really set - it somewhat sits on top of the skin versus soaking in and drying up a bit. If you wore this with a white shirt there could definitely be transfer. I also noticed at times when I touched my face the color would be on my nails.

Wear Time

Because it's more hydrating it does eventually fade on me throughout the day and depending on your skin type it may shine up on you. I have normal to dry skin, so it's usually not too shiny, but I do like to set it with a powder to keep the coverage there a bit longer.

Final Thoughts on It Cosmetics CC Cream:

I'll still use the It Cosmetics CC Cream when I self tan because you can't beat the coverage and easy application.

I love that it has SPF 50, though I do question it's full benefits if you don't use a full pump. However, some is better than none with SPF.

I can't speak for oily skinned girls, but I don't mind the hydrating finish with my drier skin.

I would recommend the original formula over the illumination formula (pink bottle) because I'm not a fan of the subtle sparkle throughout the illumination product.

I really hope they expand their color range of the CC cream because that is the main reason I don't use it today.

* * * * *

Have you tried the CC cream or other products from It Cosmetics? I've been hearing great things about their bye bye undereye so I may give that a try next. UPDATE: Tried the concealer and holy crap it's amazing. I think the bottle will last until I retire, you need the tiniest amount! It's really thick, but doesn't move throughout the day. And the light.... is actually light and brightening! 

xo Amanda John

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Tips for Growing Long Healthy Hair

HOW TO PREVENT SPLIT ENDS AND GROW LONG HAIR

Growing out my fine hair has seemed like a never-ending process. I cut my hair to my collarbone in 2010 and I'm finally to the point where I'm maintaining my length because it's what's best for my hair type. If my hair gets any longer I lose volume and it's won't keep any style! I was not blessed with thick hair, but I do have really manageable and silky hair. I think it's important to accept the hair you have and work with a style and cut that suits it! If you're in the process of growing out your hair, here are my tips to avoid split ends to have healthy, long hair! 

Lower the heat 

This year I decided to use a little less heat on my hair, starting with saving my curling iron for the weekend. I'm sure it depends on your work environment, but I can easily start incorporating more ponytails and buns into my work week to save some heat time on my hair. I've been loving these to prevent creases in my hair, but they're definitely not "invisible" like the name implies. Along with turning down the temp of your curling iron, you can also turn down the heat in the shower when rinsing out your hair. The heat protectant I've been using lately is this one, but I've been using the original version for years! I've also added in this product  to my ends when they're dry and I was shocked that my thin hair didn't look greasy after applying. I've tried to use argon/ moroccan/ jojoba oil in my ends and they're all way too greasy for my hair type. 

Use a deep conditioning mask

But choose wisely. Using a very heavy product with fine hair may cause your hair to be flat and greasy. I've been using the  It's a 10 Miracle Hair Mask and it doesn't weight my hair down. I apply it evenly throughout my hair and after letting it soak in about 5 minutes I take a little pump of their volumizing shampoo and run it through my roots to remove excess conditioner. Afterward, I use a mousse on my roots to give it a little more grit to style. My hair is super silky on it's own, so using too many softening products on it won't give me any style no matter the heat.

Amp up your diet

Having a diet filled with protein,  healthy fats, and vitamins and minerals will help feed your body from the inside out. I've been wanting to read this book to learn a little more about a beauty diet, have you read it? It doesn't hurt to take a multivitamin either. Even though you're eating a nutritious diet, it's hard to get all the micronutrients you need unless you seriously vary up your diet/ nutrients daily. Some people also swear my taking biotin, but I find if I take a huge dose of it I break out. 

Get a regular trim

Some people swear off getting their hair cut when trying to grow their hair long. It seems counterintuitive, doesn't it? However, I think this highly depends on your hair type. If you have fine hair like I do... please get it trimmed. I'd much rather grow it out on a slower but healthier basis.  In the long run, you'll be glad to have long hair that isn't stringy and dead on the end. I would ask my stylist to "micro trim" my ends every 5-6 weeks, but the time depends on your hair. I know I need a haircut when my curls start falling out more than normal. Also, I would save this for the professionals or at least professional hair clippers! Using kitchen or dull scissors to clip out split ends can actually lead to more split ends. I'm SO guilty of this in the past 🙅

Choose your brush wisely 

Always use your fingers or a wide tooth comb when your hair is wet. This is when your hair is the most susceptible to damage, so treat it with care! I like to rough dry my hair with my fingers until it's about 85-90% dry, then I take my round brush to finish the style. For regular brushing, a cushioned paddle brush with flexible bristles will be more gentle on your hair than a plastic bristle brush (I use this one!). Always start from the bottom and work your way up! 

Use a Microfiber towel to dry

I swear by these Turbie Twist microfiber towels for after the shower. They're gentle on your hair and help to absorb water which will help decreases your blow dry time and therefore decreases the amount of heat damage on your hair! It's also way more comfortable to wear. Simply squeeze out the excess water (don't rub it around in a towel!) before applying. 

Protect your hair while you sleep

I wrap my hair into a bun with a scrunchie (yep, bringing those back!) to help maintain my curls if I've styled them and to help prevent breakage while I sleep. You can also braid your hair] but my hair is too thin and I'm left with a 90's crimp hairstyle the next morning. I also purchased a silk pillow case a few year ago to decrease the friction on my hair while I sleep. 

Disclaimer: I was gifted the Miracle Hair Mask, Miracle Leave In Lite, and Miracle Oil plus Keratin to try but not in exchange for this post. I have been a fan of the miracle leave in conditioner since college and was excited to give more of their products a try! Our partnership in no way affects my opinion about these products. If you have any questions about affiliate links and gifted products, read more here. xo

Did I miss any of your tips for long healthy hair? Leave me your tips in the comments below!

xo Amanda John

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Favorite Beauty Products from 2016

Today I wanted to share my favorite beauty products from 2016. Unlike monthly favorites, I wanted to review the products that overall were the best from my routine throughout the year. With the wedding on my brain all last year, I wanted to amp up my beauty routine in some areas, but also stick with what I know works to avoid potential unwanted reactions from my sensitive skin. These are the products I've used and loved throughout 2016.

BEST BEAUTY PRODUCTS FROM 2016:

IT Cosmetics CC Cream: This has been repurchased multiple times throughout the year, and my mom and aunts have also jumped on the bandwagon with me this year. It was actually featured in my everyday makeup routine filed in 2015, so it's basically my ride-or-die foundation. I use it during the week for work and on the weekend when I'm running out for errands (aka shopping). I prefer the original formula to the illumination version. I love that it includes SPF 50, but I do question if you need to use more than I do for the full protective benefits. I use probably half a pump for my face and even that can seem like more than enough!  I recommend setting it with a powder, and recently I've been setting it with a little bit of Bare Minerals original powder.

Dermablend Foundation: This is the foundation my makeup artist used on me for my wedding. It gives awesome coverage but still gives a natural finish (aka no cake face). I previously swore by Estee Lauder Double Wear foundation for blog photos, but this one works better for my neutral / dryer skin and looks better on me in person as well.

Loreal Voluminous Lash Primer: I've never taken the time to wear a lash primer until I started using Neulash and actually found one that worked enough to add an extra step into my daily routine. This one is affordable, and I prefer it to the Dior and Tarte versions I've used in the past.

Dior Overcurl Mascara: My mom and I have both loved this mascara this year. I've always purchased drugstore mascaras, but again since buying Neulash for my wedding I upped my lash game in more ways than one. I think the serum also helps, but my straight lashes look way longer with a product that can keep it curled. This one does that and has a good ratio of volume to lengthening. If you're on the market for a drugstore mascara, Maybelline is my go-to line.

Urban Decay Concealer: This has somehow lasted me over a year, and I don't own another under eye concealer so it's not like I haven't used it all year! The consistency is very light-weight, which I like because no one wants to look older by creasing under eye concealer. I just re-purchased it just in case mine runs out on me, but I'm tempted to try this one that I've heard good things about.  I love to set mine with the light shade in the Kat Von D palette.

Kat Von D Contour and Highlight Palette: I don't use this every day... but when I do I look 5 lbs skinnier.  Ok jokes aside, I use this for date nights, blog photos, and special occasions to contour my face and set my concealer. You can see me use it in my Everyday Makeup Routine video.

Buxom Lip Gloss: Another mention from previous years, but if it ain't broke don't fix it, right? I've learned that I prefer lipgloss to lipsticks day to day because my lips just look healthier with it. A few colors I love are White Russian, Katie, and Hot Mama. I primarily wear lipsticks for blog photos because I need the extra color because I love my exposure ;)

Urban Decay Setting Spray: With starting work this year I was interested in a product to help make my makeup last during those 9-5's. I've used this in the past and my makeup artist used this on us at the wedding as well. Since I can get dry skin, I also like taking away the powder look after you set you makeup. This works for me much better than the MAC Fix+ I've used in the past, and the big bottle will last forever.

Real Techniques Brush: Thanks to a crazy MAC obsession when I first discovered Youtube in college, I own mostly Mac Cosmetics brushes. However, if I could get a repeat I would save a bit of money and get more of these instead! I do still reach for my Mac eyeshadow brushes, but as far as the face brushes are concerned this one is my go-to for bronzer, powder, and blush. It doesn't shed, cleans up really well, and the size makes blending a breeze.

BEST SKINCARE FROM 2016

Tula Face Cleanser: I've used this cleanser every day since March and my skin has really balanced out. My resolution last year was to get an actual skincare routine down (no more makeup wipes!) to get my skin in good shape for the wedding. I've talked about my it on the blog before, but I had a hormonal breakout challenge to overcome after my pill switched to generic. It takes off eye makeup really well and I always use it to clean my beauty blender when it needs it. You can get 20% off your first purchase at Tula through this link.

Loving Tan Express Tan: This isn't in the widget but is worth a mention. Other than the inconvenience of only being available online (and a few cents of foreign credit charges may apply, FYI!) this has been my favorite self-tanner of the year. I prefer to use a mousse formula, and why bother with an 8-hour formula when you can shower off and be tan in 2?! In comparison to St. Tropez, it lasts longer, is slightly cheaper, and gives a deeper color payoff (even in the medium shade I use). I always google for a coupon code to get a free mitt when I purchase.

Coola Sunscreen: I've always hated the hairspray feeling most aerosol sprays leave me with and switched to lotion because of it. I've been good about wearing sunscreen under my makeup, but I really slack when it comes to other parts on my body (especially on my hands and arms).  I purchased this organic sunscreen before going to Hawaii on our honeymoon. It smells like a pina colada and makes your skin feel moisturized but not greasy. This product has helped me wear sunscreen on my on a daily basis because of that! They also have an unscented version that I will buy for work in the future.

BEST HAIR PRODUCTS OF 2016

T3 Whirl Trio: I purchased this during 2015's Black Friday sale and eventually bought an additional clip barrel that I've used on a daily basis since. I prefer to have brushed out curls vs my flat straight hair, and this has helped limit the damage caused by daily heat. Read my T3 Whirl Review here and see the three looks I get when using it.

Moroccan Oil Dry Shampoo: Out of the handful I've tried in years past this has definitely been my favorite. I have pretty soft/ silky/ fine hair and I can't stand the powdery feeling a lot of dry shampoos can cause. This one is light-weight and a little goes a long way, plus it comes in a darker version for my dark haired friends! I think I've repurchased 3 times this year.

Fromm Hair Brush: I was sent a few of these brushes and I honestly can't even remember what I used before them. This brush is gentle on my fine hair and I use it to brush out my curls. I also use the round brush when I blow dry my hair, and the handle is much easier to work with than the larger rubber round brush I used before (plus, it's rose gold <3)


Long post, but I hope you found it helpful! Maybe your New Years resolution is to wear more sunscreen, take better care of your skin, or try new products instead of sticking with the same routine. Do you use any of these or have a recommendation? Let me know in the comments if there's a product you think I should try!

xo Amanda John

Summer Beauty Favorites

Hi Friends! I always notice a few changes in my beauty routine throughout the summer, so today I'm sharing my tips and current favorites to keep you fresh faced in the summer heat. A good beauty routine starts with a solid skincare routine, so you can read all about mine here to get you started!

First things first is finding a good sunscreen. As a fair strawberry blonde, I have been on the search for a sunscreen that doesn't make you feel sticky/greasy/hair sprayed, or all of the above. I splurged on Coola sunscreen at Ulta after discovering some beauty rewards in my account and I'm happy to report that this smells like a pina colada and leaves your skin feeling moisturized but not greasy at all! In order to save the product, I do use regular lotion sunscreen from the drugstore when I go to the beach/pool because I'll be gross by the end of the day anyway. 

During the summer less is definitely more in my opinion. I tend to reach for tinted lip balms like this one from Anthropologie or my favorite lipgloss in white russian to give my lips a moisturizing finish. Another lip product that I love but ran out of is Fresh tinted lip balm and it also has spf! 

Some days I just wear a little concealer under my eyes to brighten up my face. This bottle has lasted me months and I like the consistency better than others I've used in the past. It's pigmented, but not as thick and creamy so I don't get lines under my eyes throughout the day. I don't really have dark circles to conceal, so I pick a color one shade lighter than my skin tone to brighten up my eyes. 

Up until recently I rarely wore eye shadow except for a light sparkly shade on my lid; however, lately I've been loving a bronzy eye to go along with my faux tan and glowing skin ;) My favorite look is either applying half baked from the Naked 1 palette or a discontinued MAC pigment in Jardin Aires I picked up from my local Cosmetic Company Outlet. I think the pigment is a little more flattering for my skin tone, but it's quicker to just use the palette so I've been using both all summer. I use a mix of the darker shades for eyeliner and blend the light matte shade in naked along my crease.

Neulash isn't necessarily a summer beauty product, but ever since I purchased it in February I've been loving it because it actually does work! If you look back on some of my first posts you'll see it on a wish list, but it wasn't until this year when I decided to try it for the wedding. You'll see thicker, fluttery lashes after using it consistently at night for about a month. My mom, friends, and even girls at Sephora have commented on my lashes since using it! I plan to do a full post on it with before/after pictures for those who are interested. My current favorite mascara is this one. I'm a big fan of curling formulas because mine are stick straight and I think they look longer when they're curled.

I've used self tanning products ever since I discovered Jergens Natural Glow in high school. My current favorite is this one from Loving Tan because it last longer than others I've tried from Sephora. I use the 2 hour express formula in the shade medium because I'd much rather only need two hours for it to develop instead of sleeping in it over night. I always search for a coupon code to get a freebie along with my order. If you're interested in a full post on my self tanning routine just let me know!

I've repurchased this CC cream three times now (obsessed!) although this time I mixed it up and tried the illumination formula for summertime. I love the finish it gives, but I would recommend to keep a powder in your purse in case you get oily after a few hours. After using this product for a while, I think it's best when applied with my fingers and you definitely can get away with half a pump to cover your whole face. This highlighter isn't for you if you're looking for a subtle glow, but during the summer or for pictures I love it! I also apply it to the inner corner of my eyes to brighten them up. 

I'll be completely honest about this last product, but I probably won't repurchase this deodorant. It's not because I don't love the fresh/powdery scent (Tim has even commented that I smell good when I wear it), but because it doesn't have the staying power that my cheaper drugstore deodorant does (secret clinical strength). 

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Skincare Routine with Tula

Ever since our engagement last August I have been searching for a beauty routine to get my skin wedding ready. It wasn't until this month until I finally settled on a skincare routine that I'm happy with. I was trying out many brands from Sephora but I would breakout or I just didn't see much change in my skin that was worth the price of some of these products. For reference, I have pretty fair sensitive skin that will breakout the next day from a "bad" product. Sometimes I'm dry and peeling on my nose and sometimes I get oily during the day. 

I started hearing about Tula from the blogging world and had a few of their products in my cart waiting for a coupon code to purchase the trial set. Because my skin will react, I like to try out testers or trial sizes before buying a full bottle in case I only use it once and have to ban it due to irritation or a breakout. Fortunately, Tula reached out to send me their Discover Kit, exactly what I needed! Their skincare line is focused on balancing out your skin with probiotics, so in theory it should work for all skin types. 

I've been using it ever since I received it in March. It's supposed to take you through two weeks, but I noticed it has lasted much longer (you only need a dime size of each product). To save product I usually don't use the cleanser to wash off my makeup, but I have tested it and it does well with eye makeup. I tend to grab for organic coconut oil and a warm cloth to take off my makeup. I received a few other popular skincare samples between then and now, but I had one breakout too many and could tell that my skin wanted Tula back. 

Usually after washing my face I'll have a little redness. After using the Tula cleanser  I swear my skin looks better than when I washed off my end of the day makeup. Now that I've been using it consistently, I can tell the texture of my skin is also improving, which is the result I had been hoping for. I have two small divots in the side of my cheek that just yesterday I noticed were smoothing out. 

I'm running low on the moisturizer and cleanser, so I went ahead and purchased this Balanced Beauty Set (which is only available while supplies last) and purchased the full sized serum. The kit has a sample of the exfoliating mask that wasn't in the Discovery Kit and I've heard great things about it. Purchasing a kit is a great way to save money, and on top of that you can use code: strawberrychicxo20 to save 20% on your purchase. I highly recommend trying out Tula if you're looking for a simple skincare routine to balance out whatever skin issue you have.

UPDATE: My code has expired, but you can still get 20% off your first purchase by signing up through this link (no code required!)

T3 Whirl Review (+ 3 looks using it!)

Hope you have a solid lunch break and or big cup of coffee because this is about to be one thorough review on the T3 Whirl and curling iron. Back on Cyber Monday this hair tool was too tempting for me to pass up. I've been complaining about my old wand (in the larger size) for over a year now because I would have to balance it on the edge of my counter to keep the bottom of the barrel from touching the counter. Not only was it a fire hazard, but the temperature gauzes were off as well. I'm not sure if it was just my curling wand, or if it was the brand/design.. but it had to go. Here are all the curling irons and wands I own. I used them all except #5 which is a throw back to high school..comment if you used one of those bad boys!
1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5

The T3 allowed me to get rid of all those tools above, which was always in a tangled wad of cords, so I had room to store everything else I needed in my hair bin (hairspray, dry shampoo.. you know.. the essentials). Picture a cheesy infomercial of the person screaming/crying at the tangled cords, then smiling as she reached in for her T3 curling iron.. that's seriously me.

This curling wand is perfect for travel. You won't look like "that girl" pulling out 4 different styling tools, because they all fit in the same pouch and attach to the same thing, so it only counts as one tool ;)  Plus it will save you on weight and room in your luggage, because we all know too well how quickly the 50lb rule catches up with you. I compared all my hair tools, and none of them compared to the lightweight model of the T3.

For travel and storage, they give you a drawstring bag with individual slots inside to protect each barrel. I didn't want to post a photo of mine because it's black and my hair strands are stage 5 clingers to anything black #notcute.  The color of the bag is definitely not very important, but if I could change two things it would be the tip design (which I'll go into later) and the bag being a different color (like metallic rose gold.. heart eyes)

The iron heats up in about 30 seconds, which is equal to the time it takes me to apply dry shampoo, brush my hair out and section it off.  I always unintentionally push the buttons on the barrel when curling my hair, but unlike my other wands the T3 won't adjust temperature on you. You have to  double click it to change the temp or hold it down to turn it off. I usually have mine on setting 2 or setting 4 on extensions for reference, which seems lower than settings I would use on my old tools. The T3 setting display is very simple (dots 1-5) so I'm not sure what temperature these settings actually are.

I purchased the 1-inch clip barrel recently, and it has been my go-to attachment lately because my hair is in need of a cut and it doesn't maintain curl as well when it's in this phase. I think out of all the attachments, the tapered wand and 1-inch clip barrel are the best for hair that doesn't hold curl well. When you first start using the clip barrels, they may seem tighter than you're used to. I think that's what makes the curls look so much smoother and last longer. I prefer to have my hair curled for extra volume (I have baby-fine, long hair) and my hair hasn't seen any damage from the heat used on it almost daily.  My Conair wand would dry out my ends when I would use it too often.

The tip design is really my only negative for the T3...the good news is they changed the design based on feedback. Both designs have a tip on the end to keep the hot barrel from touching the counter, but the old design is aligned perpendicular to the barrel.. causing your hair to catch when sliding your hair off the end. It's the most noticeable when using the larger 1.5 inch barrel, because it has to stick out further. If you own the barrels with this tip, you can avoid it by unwinding the end slightly to open up the curl as you take it off. Just be aware of the tip once you purchase to make sure you got a newer version (the new tip is white instead of rose gold).

If this is your first time using a wand, there can be a learning curve, especially if you have layered hair, but you'll get better with practice! I have layers and the shorter ends will stick out as you continue to wrap the longer layers. Usually, I just let them do their thing and I don't really notice in the final product, especially if you're wanting textured waves/curls. Your fingers are close to a hot iron, so wear the glove until you get used to it! I only use the glove occasionally when I want really polished curls throughout the entire strand or if I'm switching the barrels. The glove can also take some practice because you can't feel the hair in your hand. Once you get the hang of using curling wands, curling your hair is much faster than when using a curling iron in my opinion.

Here are three photos using different T3 barrels, along with a quick instruction to achieve the look! For the first picture on the left, I took bigger sections of hair with the 1-inch clip barrel. Curling the ends will give you a more polished/classic look. You could also use the 1inch wand with the glove to get this look. Just wrap larger sections of hair flat around the barrel. 

For the middle look, I wrapped 1-inch sections of my hair around the 1-inch wand and left out about an inch at the ends. This will give you more of an undone/effortless look, which I really like for the summer time or third day hair (or fourth.. no judgements here). 

The picture on the right is my favorite but takes the most time. To get these bouncy curls, I use the 1.5-inch barrel on my extensions and the 1-inch on my top section. I hold the large curls in my hand for a good 10 seconds to reinforce the curl as it cools. I usually pick up the mess I made while getting ready to let the first iron cool down, then use the heat glove to switch the barrels just to be safe. I use the smaller clip on the top because my hair doesn't hold the larger barrel, and brush out just the top to blend.

The wand is definitely an investment. I always justify larger purchases by thinking about it like this: if the item was $1 a day, would I use it enough to pay for it? I curl my hair almost everyday, so I knew it was something I wanted to invest in to keep my hair healthy. The good news is Sephora is having 15% off your purchase [use my code VIBNOTE] until Wednesday (4/13) if you want to give it a try!

Let me know if you're interested in further hair tutorials,