Beauty News

GIVEAWAY: Take the Nivea Lip Care Challenge

April 21, 2016

When Nivea asked if I wanted to take their Lip Care Challenge, I was more than game!

Since I’m a fan of the moisture-depleting matte lipstick trend, my lips were in need of some hydrating TLC.

Nivea is sold in most mass retailers. Click here to find where you can purchase.

Over the course of five days, I ditched my favorite, yet drying lipsticks and treated my lips to Nivea’s latest offerings. Before I started the challenge, I was instantly impressed by the clean and simple packaging. The frosted pastel-hued tubes were refreshing and unlike other lip treatments. I especially loved that it wasn’t wrapped in a cheaply adhered plastic label that’s found on similar products. Again, the look and feel of the tubes immediately won me over.

MONDAY: Nivea’s Original Moisture Care

On the first day, I can’t lie; I went through a bit of a withdrawal from that barely-there feel that accompanies most matte finishes. Forgoing my go-to lippies was an adjustment, but a welcomed one. By the end of the day I didn’t mind having a bit of lubrication on my lips.

TUESDAY: Nivea Milk & Honey

Next up was the Milk & Honey option. After using the original one the day prior, I was thrilled to try this sweet and soothing balm. It didn’t create that unsightly white residue that creeps into the corners of your mouth like other lip treatments. Plus, it had a nice hint of honey fragrance that didn’t smell artificial.

WEDNESDAY: Smoothness

On Hump Day I hit a slump and needed my color fix. I decided to only wear it in the evening once I got home and removed my makeup. It lived up to its name and replenished the zapped moisture of the day and made my lips feel extra smooth.

THURSDAY: Mint & Minerals

The minty flavor gave my pucker a fleeting, tingly boost. It didn’t have an overpowering menthol effect that can ruin some of good balms. It was a nice change.

FRIDAY: Shimmer

What better day than Friday to add a bit of shimmer? After having such a favorable week with all of the lip treatments, I was excited to try the final one. The subtle shimmer was just what I needed to finish out the week. It glided on effortlessly and left my lips kissably soft.

Overall, Nivea’s Lip Care treatments have earned a permanent spot in my makeup bag. The cute tube and ultra-moisturizing benefits will turn anyone into a balm fan. Plus, none of these five made my lips feel unbearably greasy or gross. Although the challenge is over, I’ll continue to keep my lips hydrated and chapped free!

**GIVEAWAY: Want to take the Nivea Lip Care Challenge? If so, you can win all five lip care treatments. Simply leave a comment below or Tweet me @BrownGirlGumbo telling me your lip care routine. A winner will be randomly selected and notified via email on Thursday, May 5th. This contest is only open to U.S. residents.

Category: Beauty, Beauty News, Giveaway | 5 Comments

Product Review: Dove’s New Dry Oil Moisture Body Wash

April 18, 2016

I’ve suffered from dry skin my entire life. When I tried Dove’s new Dry Oil Moisture Body Wash, my parched skin had finally been quenched.

Using Dove is nothing new for me—I’ve been a fan for years. But, this formula is like no other. The creamy wash is thick and rich, which means a little goes a long way. It lathers into a luxurious sudsy utopia that cleanses effortlessly while treating your senses to a pleasant, refreshing scent. While those things are boast-worthy, nothing tops the out-of-this-world hydration that this innovative body wash creates.

Dove Dry Oil Moisture Body Wash available here, $5.50

Infused with Moroccan Argan Oil, it seals in moisture leaving skin smooth and super soft. After using it, I almost forget to add lotion because it makes my skin feel so moisturized! Honestly, I probably don’t have to use it due to its dryness-preventing properties.

Trust me, if you suffer from dry skin, give this body wash a try—you will never use your old one again!

Do you have super dry skin? If so, what do you use to combat it?

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5 Must-Have Matte Lipsticks for Spring

April 6, 2016

It’s no secret that matte lipsticks and stains are makeup bag must-haves. For the past several seasons, shiny, luminous lips have taken a backseat to the non-glossy trend.

From cool corals to deep burgundies, richly pigmented puckers are all the rage for spring. With popular beauty bloggers and reality TV stars partnering with major brands to create their own shades and kits, the matte craze shows no signs of slowing down.

mac-instigator-lipstick-Karla-Pope-Borders

Me wearing MAC Cosmetics matte lipstick in “Instigator.”

Admittedly, I used to swear by a pinkish brown gloss—but, I have jumped on this non-sticky beauty bandwagon with no shame. I give myself a pass since I’m simply revisiting my high school days when I rocked a matte reddish brick-colored Revlon lippie religiously!

Just like in fashion, beauty trends come and go. I’m sure before it’s all said and done, glossy lips will make a comeback. Until then, you’ll find me wearing some of these awesome matte finds:

AJ Crimson S+M Sultry and Matte Lipstick in “Role Play” available here, $18.50. With the proper layering, this build able reddish orange shade can take you from day to night in a matter of seconds.

Colourpop Matte Lipstick in “StingRay,” available here, $6. This cool-toned mauve brown lip color was created by makeup maven and beauty blogger, @ItsMyRayeRaye.

Avon Perfectly Matte Lipstick in “Red Supreme” available here, $9. I’ve tried countless matte lippies and this iconic brand’s new offering is a testament to its reputation. It goes on smoothly and doesn’t leave lips dry or cracked. Plus, it has a variety of complementary shades for us BGs.

MAC Cosmetics Matte Lipstick in “Instigator” available here, $17. This deep plum hue is a hit when worn with a contrasting color such as a soft pastel or blush-toned outfit.

MUA Liquid Lipstick in “Hot Pink” is exclusively sold at CVS drugstores nationwide and available here, $9. This show-stopping shade stays put while brilliantly bringing attention to your lips.

Are you team #matte or team #gloss? What’s your preferred finish for spring?

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Event Recap: Texture Media Presents Texture On the Runway 2016

February 15, 2016

New York Fashion Week is in full swing and this past weekend I attended a show, but the focus wasn’t on fashion—it was all about the HAIR! Yep, Texture Media’s 4th Annual Texture On The Runway Show sponsored by Target was a showcase of curls, coils, kinks and waves.

Held at City Winery in Soho and hosted by Michelle Breyer of Naturally Curly and Patrice Yursik of Afrobella, the evening was a celebration of textured hair. Not only did the runway feature ravishing crowns, but also the entire room was jam-packed with women of color rocking beautiful natural styles.

The 45-minute long show was broken down into five parts featuring styles from popular hair care brands such as Dark & Lovely, Cantu, Crème of Nature, Design Essentials and Garnier. Dark & Lovely got the party started with their energetic presentation set to the upbeat Beyoncé track, “Grown Woman.” Big, bushy Afros moved to and fro as the dancers grooved to every beat. It was an incredible way to start the show and set the tone for the rest of the night.

Next up was Cantu with cute short curly styles and bold, eye-catching updos. They were followed by a red-hot set from Crème of Nature. Their lineup included Diana Ross-esque blowouts, big bouncy curls and a stunning, precision cut Afro. Then, Design Essential models donning unique styles such as a lop-sided faux bob, textured topknot and a lavender cascade of waves strutted down the catwalk. The show’s finale included a lovely wash-n-go, a center-parted teased bun and a flirty, curly ponytail.

Plus, all of the show’s vendors were on hand to give attendees information about the products used in the presentation and how to recreate some of the looks at home.

The diversity of textured hair is remarkable and this showcase is just a wonderful way to put our manes on a celebratory platform.

The night of the show I was suffering from a bad hair day, but managed to salvage my curls by tying a colorful, wiry headband scarf around them.

Whether you wear your hair straight, curly, in braids, in an Afro or somewhere in between, what do you love the most about your hair?

Category: Beauty, Beauty News, Featured, Features, Hair | Leave a Comment

Flying High: It Cosmetics Launches Superhero Mascara & Confidence in a Cream Moisturizer

February 8, 2016

A couple of weeks ago I was invited to attend a first-class press event for It Cosmetics. I was so excited to go; not only because I was going to get a sneak peek at some of the brand’s latest offerings, but also get a chance to partake in in-door skydiving at iFly in Westchester, NY!

Unfortunately, I was unable to attend – but was happy to send my NYC correspondent, Yelena, to get the scoop. She said the simulated flying experience was out-of-this world, but the true high note was getting a mini makeover with the new products.

First up, the Superhero Elastic Stretch Volumizing Mascara. “The mascara was incredible,” she recalls. The inventive mascara has unmatched technology that boosts the volume of lashes with a single stroke. “While one application can get the job done, I like to build for an even bolder look,” she admits. The super black pigment separates and attaches to lashes effortlessly creating a lengthened, thick and full lash line. “I have I’ve had some bad luck with mascaras lately,” she says. “They’re either too dry or too clumpy, so this is a welcomed addition to my beauty arsenal.”

It Cosmetics Superhero Mascara launches February 16th and will be available here, $24

Their other exciting launch product is Confidence in a Cream. This transforming facial moisturizer is created to rejuvenate your skin – ultimately boosting your confidence. Developed with plastic surgeons, you know it has to be good! “It smells refreshing,” Yelena describes. No one expects immediate results with a face cream, but she’s looking forward to seeing positive changes. “I can’t wait to see how my skin gradually improves with each use.” The cream boasts a proprietary anti-aging formula that rejuvenates skin while simultaneously providing penetrating hydration.

It Cosmetics “Confidence in a Cream” available here, $42

It Cosmetics’ products aren’t just pioneers in the technology beauty space, but their offerings have an all-around “it” factor that makes them one of a kind!

Have you ever used It Cosmetics? If so, what’s your favorite product?

Category: Beauty, Beauty News, Featured, Features | 1 Comment

Palmer’s New Coconut Oil Formula Line is the Cream of the Crop

February 4, 2016

Last week I was whisked away to a tranquil, tropical oasis—right in the heart of the Big Apple!

In celebration of Palmer’s new Coconut Oil Formula line, I was treated to a zen-like afternoon of respite with tantalizing scents and serene surroundings. MDNFL, a premier meditation studio in Manhattan, was the perfect space to showcase the delightful coconut infused offerings.

The 5-piece lineup includes: Coconut Oil Formula Body Lotion, Coconut Oil Formula Body Oil, Coconut Oil Formula Hand Cream and Coconut Oil Formula Body Cream. I’ve tried my fair share of body balms and creamy blends, but these products top the list. The Body Lotion in particular moisturizes for up to 24 hours and leaves my rough, winter-ridden skin soft and super hydrated. Not only do they fragrantly quench and soothe dry skin, but they’re also made with sustainably sourced raw coconut, Monoi and sweet almond oils.

Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula products are currently available at Target and will be in Walgreen’s and CVS stores later this month. All products are under $10.

If you’re already a fan of Palmer’s, this new crop of coconut goodies won’t disappoint!

What’s your favorite Palmer’s product?

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Great Last-Minute Stocking Stuffers That Your Sister or BFF Will Love

December 16, 2015

It’s hard to believe that Christmas is only one week away!

If you’re a shopping procrastinator like me, don’t panic. I’ve rounded up some great last-minute stocking stuffer gift ideas for all the ladies on your list. From compact brow sets to cozy socks, these affordable finds are sure to bring her cheer.

Check them out below:

This Savannah Bee Majesty Gift Set will “bee” the perfect present for anyone who appreciates quality all-natural, body washes and creams. Available here, $12.99

Stick a few tubes of this CoverGirl Outlast Longwear Lipstick in your sister’s stocking and she just might shower you with kisses! Available here, $9.80

These are not your childhood sweets. This Sugarfina Bento Box of gourmet gummies will be an indulgent treat for the candy lover in your life. Available here, $65

Give the gift of bold brows with this MUA Professional Complete Brow Kit available exclusively at CVS stores nationwide, $12

If your gift recipient resides in NYC, L.A., San Francisco, Chicago or Seattle, on December 20th this bliss Dynamic Duo with Grapefruit + Aloe Body Butter and Soapy Suds can be delivered right to their doorstep within an hour! Through Postmates, the on-demand delivery service, your gift will arrive in the nick of time! Check here for more details, $28

Keep toes and feet cozy with these Sonoma life + style Knee-High Gripper Slipper Socks available here, $12

Your favorite natural curly girl will be happy to grab her crayons and unleash her creativity and relieve stress with this “I Love My Hair” coloring book by Andrea Pippins. Available here, $10