Blog | Page 13 of 225 | Makeup By Kim Porter

Hair Care Tuesday: Simplicity Hair Oil New Simplicity Moisture Conditioner Review

April 28, 2015 by Kim S. / Hair Care / 35 Comments

This Hair Care Tuesday, completes my review of the Simplicity Hair Oil products I purchased. Last week, I reviewed the Simplicity Moisture Shampoo, and this week, it’s only right to talk about the New Simplicity Moisture Conditioner.

Simplicity Hair Oil Describes their New Simplicity Moisture Conditioner as

A blend of aloe vera, green tea leaf extract and grape seed oil deliver softer, shiner, hydrated hair. Easier to manage retain length due to reduced breakage and moisture levels remaining in the hair well beyond the conditioning phase.

The New Simplicity Moisture Conditioner is my favorite out of the line. It is everything! It makes my hair feel great! After using the conditioner sans heat, my hair is left soft, moisturized and manageable (no knots or tangles). The conditioner rinses clean, but there’s still enough slip left post rinse. I also noticed that the conditioner works best as suggested on the packaging.

Simplicity Hair Oil suggests sealing in the conditioner with their Simplicity Hair Oil to help lock in the moisture. It works well when using heat, too. I don’t have a heat cap, but I do have a hooded dryer that I sit under. It definitely helps with making the New Simplicity Moisture Conditioner work better.

The texture of the Simplicity Hair Oil New Simplicity Moisture Conditioner is similar to other creamy conditioners I use, except it isn’t heavy. To me, it’s more like a lotion. Non-greasy and lightweight. My hair, which is on the thinner side, isn’t weighed down afterwards.

Now, let’s get to the scent. The Simplicity Hair Oil New Simplicity Moisture Conditioner has a light floral, not quite herbal scent. It’s nice. If scents bother you, you’d be happy to hear that it doesn’t linger on the hair long post wash.

I tend to be heavy handed when using hair conditioners, especially if I’m co-washing (not using shampoo, but conditioner instead to cleanse). Do you know how easy it is for me to run through conditioner? I tend to always have more shampoo left over than conditioner, and with this conditioner running $24.75/ 8.5 oz, which can be costly. But, I love it.

Overall, I’m happy with the results I’ve experienced using the Simplicity Hair Oil New Simplicity Moisture Conditioner along with the other Simplicity Hair Oil Products I’ve been using. I would recommend it to anyone looking to increase moisture in their hair with a product that uses a blend of natural ingredients.

If you’re interested in purchasing any of the Simplicity Hair Oil products, they’re available for purchase online only at http://www.simplicity-oil.com.

Simplicity Moisture Conditioner Ingredients: Deinoized Water, Caprylic/Capric Treglyceride Cetyl Alcohol, Glycerin Steralkonium Chloride, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Extract, Algae Extract Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf Extract Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Cetrimonium Bromide Cyclopentasiloxane, Citric Acid Ethylhexylglycerin, Essential Oil Fragrences.

COOLA Suncare Mineral Sunscreens Review

April 27, 2015 by Kim S. / Beauty, blog, Skincare / 16 Comments

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We’re back with a brand that’s new to the blog, COOLA Suncare. COOLA Suncare is an organic luxury sun and skincare brand that incorporates a Farm to Face® sourcing philosophy, using the freshest and most natural ingredients whenever possible. That said, I’m reviewing two of the brand’s mineral sunscreens: Face SPF 30 Unscented Matte Tint and Face SPF 20 Rose Essence Tint.

About COOL Suncare’s Mineral Sunscreens

“Coola Mineral Sunscreens contain non-nano sized mineral (physical) actives Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide. We formulate our Mineral Sunscreens uniquely, separating and encapsulating each active in an effort to keep them equidistant from each other. This equal dispersal provides not only the most transparent application, but also the best protection, as the active particles evenly reflect UV rays. These lightweight lotions are reef-friendly and include formulas that are water resistant up to 80 minutes.”

First, we’re going to talk about the FACE SPF 30 Unscented Matte Tint, which COOLA calls a “Natural BB Cream”. I’m a fan of skincare that doesn’t include fragrance, so this is a plus for me. Even though it’s lightly tinted, once applied, it doesn’t give off that ghostly effect.

Applying the COOLA FACE SPF 30 Unscented Matte Tint is easy. It goes on smooth, and a little goes a long way. I’ve worn it alone, under and over makeup. I love that I can apply it over my makeup throughout the day for both sun protection and shine reduction without having to worry about it affecting my makeup. Also, it does help a bit in keeping the oil down after applying, which I like, too.

Next, we have the COOLA Suncare Face SPF 20 Rose Essence Tint. This sunscreen is also lightly tinted, and is deemed, by COOLA Suncare, a tinted moisturizer. The tint is so sheer, especially after applied, and blended into the skin, there’s really nothing to see except, soft, smooth, and radiant skin. Oh, and there’s a light rose scent, too. The rose fragrance is very light, but, if you’re like me, and you don’t like fragrance in your skincare, it may be off-putting.

The SPF on the SPF 20 Rose Essence Tint isn’t as high as the FACE SPF 30 Unscented Matte Tint, and I usually like to have my sun care products in the SPF 50 range, but any SPF is better than no SPF, right?

Both of the COOLA Suncare products are water resistant for 40 minutes. Keep that in mind if you tend to perspire a lot, and if you’re spending lots of time at the beach or in a pool, and if you’re doing either of the latter right now, I’m seriously jealous.

You’re probably wondering how are you going to choose which one is right for you, right? Well, the COOLA Suncare FACE SPF 30 Unscented Matte Tint is suggested for those with normal or oily skin, while the Face SPF 20 Rose Essence Tint is suitable for all skin types including those individuals with sensitive skin. If you prefer a higher SPF, and something that takes away shine, then you’d choose the FACE SPF 30 Unscented Matte Tint. If you’re looking for a sunscreen that gives your skin a radiant look, without adding much color, and you don’t mind rose fragrance, then the Face SPF 20 Rose Essence Tint is your best bet. Either way, both are good products. I actually carry around the Matte Tint with me in my purse for on-the-go touchups.

Both products can be purchased for $36.00/ 1.7 FL oz at http://www.coolasuncare.com

Have you tried any COOLA Suncare products? What are your thoughts?

COOLA Suncare SPF 30 Unscented Matte Tint Ingredients
Active Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide (Sunscreen) 3.2% Zinc Oxide (Sunscreen) 1.8%

Inactive Ingredients: Aluminum Hydroxide, Butyrospermum Parkii (ORGANIC Shea Butter), Cucumis Sativus (ORGANIC Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Glycerin (ORGANIC), Hydrogen Dimethicone, Iron Oxides, Isopropyl Myristate, Isopropyl Titianium Triisostearate, Linum Usitatissimum (ORGANIC Linseed) Seed Oil, Mica, Oenothera Biennis (ORGANIC Evening Primrose) Oil, Plankton Extract, Polyamide-5, Polysilicone-11, Propylene Carbonate, Rosa Canina (ORGANIC) Fruit Oil, Silica Silylate, Stearalkonium Hectorite, Synthetic Wax

Organic Ingredients: Cucumber Fruit Extract, Evening Primrose Oil, Glycerin, Linseed Seed Oil, Rose Hip Oil, and Shea Butter

COOLA Suncare Face SPF 20 Rose Essence Tint Ingredients
Active Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide (Sunscreen) 4.2%

Inactive Ingredients: Aluminum Hydroxide, Caprylohydroxamic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Carthamus Tinctorius (ORGANIC Safflower) Seed Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (ORGANIC Orange) Fruit Water, Cocoglycerides, Coriandrum Sativum (Coriander) Fruit Oil, Cucumis Sativus (ORGANIC Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Euterpe Oleracea (ORGANIC Acai) Fruit Oil, Glycerin, Helianthus Annuus (ORGANIC Sunflower) Seed Extract, Hydrogen Dimethicone, Hydrogenated Soybean Oil, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein/PVP Crosspolymer, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Iron Oxides, Isopropyl Titanium Triisostearate, Lauryl Glucoside, Linum Usitatissimum (ORGANIC Linseed) Seed Oil, Mica, Plankton Extract, Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate, Propanediol, Rosa Damascena Flower Oil, Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Extract, Synthetic Wax, Tocopherol, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Water, Xanthan Gum.

Organic Ingredients: Cucumber Fruit Extract, Glycerin, Linseed Seed Oil, Orange Fruit Water, Safflower Seed Oil, and Sunflower Seed Extract

Then vs Now: How my makeup has changed in my 30’s

April 23, 2015 by Kim S. / Beauty, blog, Makeup Looks, makeup tips, The Beauty Council / 21 Comments

There’s something that happens to us as we get older. Things tend to change. If they don’t then there’s something wrong with you. #KiddingNOTKidding Seriously, people tend to learn from the mistakes they’ve made as youths, and work on improving those things as they get older. The same thing goes for people in the makeup world, whether you’re a makeup artist or enthusiast, you’re sure to have noticed a change in the way your makeup looks now versus lets say, 5 to 10 years ago.

I didn’t start wearing makeup until I was 18, which was for my high school prom. This makeup consisted of powder, gold eye shadow, mascara, and a gloss. And then, something happened, I began to experiment with different colors, foundation, lipsticks, blushers and bronzers; I was obsessed. I turned my obsession into a passion, and began blogging and doing makeup. Now that I am fresh into my 30’s, it seems like I’m back to where I started – back to neutrals. One thing I noticed about my makeup versus then and now, is that I am more of a ‘Less is more’ kind of gal woman.

What am I doing differently with my makeup now that I’m in my 30’s? Keep reading to find out.

Looking back at my old makeup posts and tutorials, I was into very colorful makeup. I was younger, and didn’t I mind experimenting with color to create colorful [outrageous] looks. I remember the huge lashes I loved to wear. OMG! I look back at photos, and I think I look completely ridiculous. Even my eyebrows went through some major changes. They’re no longer heavily drawn on. They have a softer more natural look.

These days, I’m not sure if it’s the mom in me, or if I’m becoming more conservative, or maybe it can be attributed to me not having more time to dedicate to putting on loads of makeup, but one thing I noticed is that my makeup in my 30’s is more on the neutral side. Sure, I will add a pop of color with a colored eye pencil or even a bright lippie, but, that’s probably the most I will do. I honestly do not have the time for anything else, especially during the week.

My goal for my makeup look, especially for work and casual wear, is to look more polished than made up. Below are some of my makeup staples for an everyday face.

NARS All Day Luminous Weightless Foundation (review)
La Girl Pro Concealer (review)
Anastasia Beverly Hills Dip Brow (review) or IT Cosmetics YBBB Brow Pencil (review)
Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara (review) or tarte Lights Camera Lashes
Guerlain Terracotta Bronzing Powder #7
Anyone of my favorite colored lippies for a pop of color or if I want a straight nude/neutral look, I opt for the NARS Audacious Lipstick in Raquel (review).

I’ve shared how my makeup look and routine have changed since hitting 30. I would love to hear about your experiences, too.

Have you noticed that your makeup look has changed as you aged? If so, I’d like to hear how. If it hasn’t I’d love to hear about that, too!

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Spring Skincare Routine for my Combination Oily Skin

April 22, 2015 by Kim S. / Beauty, blog / 16 Comments

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Spring is here, which means it is time to update my current skincare routine. There are things that worked for my skin during the winter that may not work for my skin right now, which is why I’ve began a new Spring Skincare Routine for my Combination Oily Skin.

We all know that this winter has been harsh for those of us in the Northeast. I’m sure you can imagine the havoc it’s wreaked on my skin. I have dry patches between my eyebrows, and on a problem area on the right cheek. To remedy that I am incorporating products into my spring skincare routine that’s going to help in reviving and repairing my skin just in time for the summer.

On the days I’m wearing makeup, and prior to cleansing, in order to remove any makeup, dirt and grime, I opt for a makeup removal wipe (lazy days) or a cleansing oil. And then I follow up with my favorite cleanser (review) which I use with a charcoal konjac sponge (review). Charcoal aids in oil absorption.

After cleansing, I usually exfoliate. Do you remember my last skincare post? If not, read it here. In it, I introduced you to a Japanese skincare brand, SKIN INC. I’m still using everything, especially their Pure Revival Peel to slough off dry, dead skin. I use this at least twice per week or three times, if needed. Other days, I just use one of my favorite, gentle daily microfoliants. It sounds like a lot, but this works for my skin.

Of course I use a toner to get rid of anything my cleanser may have missed, and to refresh my skin. I’m in the middle of finishing up the LUSH Tea Tree Water Toner, to which I’ve added additional Tea Tree essential oil, which has helped in keeping away blemishes, and reducing oil in my t-zone. Lord know that are can become an oil slick. I still use the Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Rosewater and Aloe (review), which reminds me that I need to stock up.

After the toner, I apply a serum, and then follow-up with the SKIN INC Pure Deepsea Hydrating Mask, which I am in-love with. Seriously, this stuff has my skin soft, supple, and radiant the next morning. Yes, you can sleep in it, which is another characteristic about it that I love. Since it’s a clear formula, you don’t have to worry about it messing up your sheets.

In the mornings, I skip the Pure Deepsea Hydrating Mask, and opt for a lightweight moisturizer with SPF. SPF is a must during the warmer months since I’m outdoors more often, which means my skin is exposed to the sun’s harmful UVA/UVB rays. I’ve also been carrying around the Coola Matte Tint SPF 30 Sunscreen. I like that it takes away the shine, and can be applied over my makeup if I am wearing any.

Now that I’ve share my Spring Skincare Routine for my Combination Oily Skin, I’d love to hear about how your current skincare routine has changed this season.

Does your skincare routines change with the seasons?