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Cool weather means dryness for my combination oily skin; especially around the mouth.  These Freeman Micro-Darts Pro Fine Line Patches seeme...

Cool weather means dryness for my combination oily skin; especially around the mouth.  These Freeman Micro-Darts Pro Fine Line Patches seemed to be good on paper to treat this area, but let's find out if they are actually effective.  

FREEMAN
Micro-Darts Pro Fine Line Patches Review

Freeman Micro-Darts Pro Fine Line Patches Review - with Before and After shot!


INFO SHEET


Brand:  Freeman Beauty
Product:  Micro-Darts Pro Fine Line Patches
Scent:  None
Price:  $5.99 for One Pair
Where to Buy:  Ulta

These are pretty much the same as the Freeman Micro-Darts Pro Under Eye Patches, with slightly different ingredients.  I wasn't happy with the eye patches, but I had also purchased the Freeman Micro-Darts Pro Fine Line Patches at the same time.  Hopefully the poor experience with the eye patches was just a fluke! 

Little baby patch.


The Freeman Micro-Darts Pro Fine Line Patches have the same treatment area as the Under Eye Patches - 1.375 x 0.375 inches (3.5 x 1 cm) with a slightly different shape.  While I wasn't happy with this size for my undereye, I think it's okay for targeting laugh lines because they occur in a more linear form; whereas my undereye puffiness and lines are more spread out.  


INGREDIENTS


What attracted me to the Freeman Micro-Darts Pro Fine Line Patches was the short ingredients list on top of being K-Beauty.  My skin is highly reactive so limited ingredients is definitely a plus for me.  The ingredients list also appears to be full of goodies as well:

Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Water/Aqua, Pentapeptide-18, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Adenosine.


Notable Ingredients:

  • Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid - Lower molecular weight version of Hyaluronic Acid that allows for deeper penetration into this skin.  This allows for better moisture retention that is not removed by cleansing.  
  • Sodium Hyaluronate - aka Hyaluronic Acid.  A very effective humectant that boosts the skin's moisture content, prevents dehydration, and preserves skin moisture.  
  • Pentapeptide-18 - Peptide said to reduces fine lines and increase moisture in the skin.
  • Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 - Peptide that increases skin firmness and elasticity.
  • Adenosine - A skin soothing and restorative agent that occurs naturally within the body.  

Like the Freeman Micro-Darts Pro Under Eye patches, this ingredients list is also very nice.  Surprisingly, the eye patches weren't very good despite having excellent ingredients!  I hope that these Fine Line patches will fare better, but I am skeptical.  


COSDNA ALERTS


None of the ingredients listed for the Freeman Micro-Darts Pro Fine Line Patches triggered any alerts on COSDNA.  This means that the likelihood of acne or irritation occurring from this product is minimal.  


BEFORE AND AFTER

Freeman Micro-Darts Pro Fine Line Patches - Before and After!


Did... did these patches add more wrinkles?  I want to say it did but I can't even tell what's going on.  I tried my best to take a close up of the results, and you can see there is definitely no improvement.  The upside is that they didn't hurt to remove like the Freeman Eye Patches.  That's most likely because the skin around my mouth is thicker than the undereye area... but I'm struggling to see any benefit achieved from these patches.

I wore the Freeman Micro-Darts Pro Fine Line Patches for 2.5 hours until the micro-darts were fully dissolved (at the 2 hour mark they still weren't).  I didn't feel much discomfort wearing them for so long, but after removal my skin did not feel hydrated whatsoever.  This is surprising because they had Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid and Sodium Hyaluronate at the top of the ingredients list.  Maybe my skin felt slightly softer though?  I can barely tell.  The patches also left a visible indentation on my skin that took about 30 minutes to dissipate. 


FINAL THOUGHTS


I really see no benefit in these Freeman Micro-Darts Pro Fine Line Patches.  None of the visible improvements I experienced from other eye patches, and none of the skin soothing benefits either.  Maybe results will appear with continued use, but there are more efficient and affordable ways of pampering your skin.  

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ULTA$5.99Free Shipping Orders $35+

What is going on with these things though?  How can they have awesome ingredients and still be blah?  Nothing makes sense anymore.  Will not rebuy 😞.  

Rating
This post may contain affiliate links to help support this blog.  
None of these reviews sponsored, nor were any of the products provided for free (or even at a discount) by any affiliate.
Read full disclosure here.

I was in the market for a single pot eyeshadow that was easy to use.  Not being a makeup artist, I needed something affordable (in case I sc...

I was in the market for a single pot eyeshadow that was easy to use.  Not being a makeup artist, I needed something affordable (in case I screw up).  ULTA tends to have me by the wallet, so naturally I looked there first.  Enter the Bouncy Cream Eye Shadow.  

ULTA
Bouncy Cream Eye Shadow Review

ULTA Bouncy Cream Eye Shadow - with Champagne Sorbet Swatch!


INFO SHEET


Brand:  ULTA
Product:  Bouncy Cream Eye Shadow
Shade:  Champagne Sorbet
Color Payoff:  Good
Price:  $9.00
Where to Buy:  Ulta

I don't really wear makeup anymore because I have to wear a face mask everywhere I go.  Since skin care is my priority, the last thing I want to do is wear a mask with foundation smeared all over the inside.  That being said, it's time to stop being lazy and at least put in a little effort; so I decided to do some easy eye makeup!

I'm not a makeup artist at all, so I wanted to find an affordable eyeshadow that I could play with.  That's what lead me to the ULTA Bouncy Cream Eyeshadow.  It's only $9 and has a good variety of colors with multi-faceted appeal.  It's nice to just apply a one-and-done eyeshadow, throw on some mascara, and head out the door. 

ULTA Champagne Sorbet Single Pot Eye Shadow


SWATCH

ULTA Bouncy Cream Eye Shadow - Champagne Sorbet Swatch


The ULTA Bouncy Cream Eye Shadow is quite glittery, but not overwhelming.  I chose the Champagne Sorbet color because it was reminiscent of Rose Gold.  Not too yellow, not too pink; it's just beautiful.  As with many affordable eyeshadows, this one has some fall out.  Sadly, the glitter also likes to travel.  It doesn't bother me much but it may be irritating to others.

I was expecting the ULTA Bouncy Cream Eye Shadow to be just that - creamy.  The consistency is more like a very very fine powder though.  It's soft and easy to apply.  I used my finger to apply in the picture below, but since I'm obviously bad at it; maybe I should invest in a brush...

ULTA Champagne Sorbet Swatch - I know I suck at makeup :(


I know I'm terrible at makeup - hence why I'm going to single pot route.  Upon application I was really loving the color of the ULTA Bouncy Cream Eye Shadow.  The Champagne Sorbet color stunning Rose Gold and it looks really nice on my NC 37 skin tone.  I think it pairs very nicely with a black liquid eyeliner and some mascara.  I didn't have any trouble applying liquid eyeliner over it.  

I did notice that the ULTA Bouncy Cream Eye Shadow color seemed to fade as the day went on.  I wouldn't call it long lasting but it still looks nice.  It doesn't just disappear like the Morphe shadows do (I really dislike the Morphe Eye Shadows).  All in all, I got many compliments and I was happy with the results.  


FINAL THOUGHTS


I really like the ULTA Bouncy Cream Eye Shadow and will definitely repurchase.  The Champagne Sorbet color helps me achieve a put together look with minimal effort - and I'm all for that!  Also, I promise I'll get better at application 😁.

STOREPRICEOFFERS
ULTA$9.00Free Shipping Orders $35+

As these shadows are only $9.00 a pop I think its a great bargain.  My ULTA Bouncy Cream Eye Shadow arrived in perfect condition, but the main complaint I am seeing in reviews is that they arrive broken.  So definitely check them out at the store, and don't forget your coupon!

Rating

This post may contain affiliate links to help support this blog.  
None of these reviews sponsored, nor were any of the products provided for free (or even at a discount) by any affiliate.
Read full disclosure here.

Sometimes you just have to throw a few things in your cart to hit Platinum before the end of the year at Ulta.  We've all been there.  T...

Sometimes you just have to throw a few things in your cart to hit Platinum before the end of the year at Ulta.  We've all been there.  That's how I ended up buying these Freeman Micro-Darts Pro Under Eye Patches.  

FREEMAN
Micro-Darts Pro Under Eye Patches Review

Freeman Micro-Darts Pro Under Eye Patches Review - with Before and After photo!


INFO SHEET


Brand:  Freeman Beauty
Product:  Micro-Darts Pro Under Eye Patches
Scent:  None
Price:  $5.99 for One Pair
Where to Buy:  Ulta

These reminded me of the Exuviance HA100 Micro-Filler patches that I reviewed previously; so I was interested as to how they would compare.  What sold me on these was the limited ingredients list, on top of being Made in Korea.  Like the Exuviance patches, these patches are also supposed to utilize a "micro-cone" ingredient delivery system.  Basically, these cones are just a solid version of the ingredients listed below, that slowly dissolve as the eye patches are worn for a minimum of two hours.  
What is this?  An eye patch for ants?


Maaan.  These look like a cheap knock off of the Exuvance HA100 Micro-Filler patches.  I opened it and I was like "that's it?" This tiny little eye patch... The treatment area is only 1.375 x 0.375 inches (3.5 x 1 cm)!  Anyways I'm still hopeful because the ingredients are nice, but sheesh.  I guess that's why they are less than half the price.  

My experience with the Exuviance patches left me on the fence because of the price, on top of being painful to remove.  I wonder if I will have the same unpleasant removal experience with these Freeman Micro-Darts Pro Under Eye Patches... 

The Exuviance patches must be worn for a minimum of three hours, or over night.  Since this review compares the Freeman Micro-Darts patches then I will wear these over night as well.  


INGREDIENTS


I've said this before and I'll say it again - I tend to shy away from masking because my skin is so sensitive (unless its Sulwhasoo, HMU).  However, the Freeman Micro-Darts Pro Under Eye Patches boasts a short and sweet ingredients list so the chance that I'll have a negative reaction is minimized.  The ingredients are as follows:

Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, Oxidized Glutathione, Sodium Hyaluronate, Butylene Glycol, Water/aqua, Phoenix Dactylifera Seed, Ascorbic Acid, Chenopodium Quinoa Seed Extract, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-5, Sodium Hydroxide.


Notable Ingredients:

  • Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid - Lower molecular weight version of Hyaluronic Acid that allows for deeper penetration into this skin.  This allows for better moisture retention that is not removed by cleansing.  
  • Oxidized Glutathione - An antioxidant that helps prevent the formation of wrinkles and increases the moisture content of the outermost layer of the skin. 
  • Sodium Hyaluronate - aka Hyaluronic Acid.  A very effective humectant that boosts the skin's moisture content, prevents dehydration, and preserves skin moisture.  
  • Phoenix Dactylifera Seed - aka Date Palm Seed Extract.  Studies show that this ingredient increases skin elasticity and moisture content, while also reducing sebum production (good for oily skin).  
  • Ascorbic Acid - aka Vitamin C (woo!) A highly beneficial antioxidant that improves skin appearance and signs of aging.  
  • Chenopodium Quinoa Seed Extract - A plant derived conditioning agent with skin smoothing and moisture barrier healing properties.
  • Acetyl Tetrapeptide-5 - A soothing peptide that helps reduce puffiness, smooths, and hydrates the skin.

This small ingredients list packs a punch!  It's loaded with goodies with peptides to boot!  I really like how they have Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid.  It's not something commonly found in undereye patches but it's basically a beefed up version of Hyaluronic Acid.  


COSDNA ALERTS


Out of the ingredients listed, only one was marked as a potential acne trigger according to COSDNA.  

  • Butylene Glycol - 1 out of 5 (Acne)

Luckily, I know my skin already tolerates this ingredient pretty well so I am cleared for testing!  


BEFORE AND AFTER

Freeman Micro-Darts Pro Under Eye Patches - Before and After...


On the left you will see my undereye on a typical morning - tired and puffy.  On the right are the results after wearing the Freeman Micro-Darts Pro Under Eye patches over night.  It... barely did anything except leave an indentation on my eye.  I even waited 30 minutes after removal to take the photo and you can still kind of see the indentation 😑.  

Oh and they were just as annoying to remove as the Exuviance patches as well.  Despite these patches having Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid and Sodium Hyaluronate my undereye area felt more dry than anything.  These patches are definitely not for those in a hurry, because you have to wear them for a minimum of two hours then wait for your undereye to soften up after removal.  

I also couldn't get the Freeman Micro-Darts Pro Under Eye patches very close to my undereye because it has a .125" (3 mm) adhesive lip around the treatment area.  I was able to fall asleep with it, but I could understand why some find it to be uncomfortable.  It feels like wearing a piece of thick clear tape under the eye.  The plus side is they didn't move at all as I slept with them on; even though I tend to toss and turn a lot while I sleep. 


FINAL THOUGHTS


I was on the fence when it came to my review of the Exuviance HA100 Micro-Filler eye patches... I just felt like they were missing something and my undereye didn't feel hydrated after, but they were still effective.  However, the Freeman Micro-Darts Pro Under Eye patches were disappointing.  I'm just so perplexed as to how these could be a fail.  On paper, the ingredients are really good, but I guess the execution was poor.  I honestly wish they would remake these using the same ingredients as hydrogels or even regular eye masks.  

Ulta

I think any other under eye patch would be better than these Freeman Micro-Darts.  I'd even use the Exuviance ones again over these.  Maybe those with super puffy eyes might actually see results.  Sadly, I won't be repurchasing the Freeman Micro-Darts Pro Under Eye patches.  
Rating
This post may contain affiliate links to help support this blog.  
None of these reviews sponsored, nor were any of the products provided for free (or even at a discount) by any affiliate.
Read full disclosure here.

Well, well, well.  What do we have here?  Another brow pen review?  Oh it's from NYX?!  Alright then carry on... But really though NYX h...

Well, well, well.  What do we have here?  Another brow pen review?  Oh it's from NYX?!  Alright then carry on... But really though NYX has some great affordable makeup so it was only a matter of time until they released their own brow pen.

NYX
Lift & Snatch Brow Tint Pen Review

NYX Lift & Snatch Brow Tint Pen Review with Swatches!


INFO SHEET


Brand:  NYX
Product:  Lift & Snatch Brow Tint Pen
Shade:  Ash Brown (view Espresso here)
Color Payoff:  Decent Pigmentation
Waterproof?:  Mild to Moderate
Price:  $11.00
Where to Buy:  Amazon, NYX, Ulta

While I am still in love with my Milani Weekend Brow Pen... I do tend to have a wandering eye when it comes to brow products.  NYX is known for their quality yet affordable makeup, and when I saw that they recently dropped the new Lift & Snatch Brow Tint Pen; I knew what I had to do.

When I received my order, the first thing I did was shake the pen to make sure it had the little mixy ball thing inside (it does).  I have found that pens with this technology tends to last a little longer.  So we have:  Mixy ball - Check, Nice cool brown shade - Check.  First impressions are important, but how well will it fare on my face?  


SWATCH

NYX Lift & Snatch Brow Tint Pen in Shade Ash Brown

The pen is just a little more polished than Milani Weekend Brow


Like the Milani Weekend Brow Pen, the NYX Lift & Snatch Brow Tint Pen has a very fine precision brush tip.  At first I thought I had ordered the Milani pen by accident, because the size and shape of the pen was very similar albeit a little more polished.  If it ain't broke, don't fix it; I guess.  

There are quite a few colors to choose from, but I decided to go with the Ash Brown color because I tend to err on the side of caution and order lighter.  I think using a marginally lighter shade tends to give me a more natural look.  However, I think the Ash Brown shade might be oh so slightly too light for me, so I will order a darker shade next time (UPDATE: Swatch for Espresso can be viewed here!).  

What I really like about the NYX Lift & Snatch Brow Tint Pen is that the precise tip is just the right amount of stiffness.  You don't want it too soft because then it won't be able to push through those brow hairs!  Too hard, and well.. the ink just doesn't want to come out.  So far, everything seems to be just right.  

When I first swatched the product I drew a small stroke on my hand to see how fine the tip was.  I then instantly forgot about it and went about my day.  To my horror later on, I thought my hand had grown a long gross hair; only to realize that it was the stroke I had drawn a few hours before.  Yes - it is that precise!


BEFORE AND AFTER

The NYX Brow Tint Pen is the most water resistant of all brow pens I have tried.
Works very well though I will order a darker shade next time!


If you've been reading my blog you would know that most brow pens do not survive the water test (except for Milani Weekend Brow Pen kind of); so I had low expectations when it came to the NYX Lift & Snatch Brow Tint Pen.  However, I am happy to announce that thus far the NYX brow pen has outperformed literally all of the other brow pens I have tried.  As I ran my hand under the running water, this pen did not budge.  It will wipe off though, but as far as getting wet is concerned I was very pleasantly surprised.  If I go to the gym or expect to perform some sort of sweaty activity I will definitely reach for this pen first!

I like how the Ash Brown shade wasn't too warm.  A lot of brow pens I use tend to be too warm, so this blended really well with my natural brows.  The NYX Lift & Snatch Brow Pen also gave me a good amount of control.  Maybe I am getting better at applying these pens, but I really didn't have trouble making very fine lines and application was a breeze.  I was really happy with the results and had a good amount of staying power to boot.  


FINAL THOUGHTS


All I have to say is wow.  NYX really did a great job with the Lift & Snatch Brow Tint Pen.  I've used A LOT of brow pens and the NYX Lift & Snatch Brow Tint Pen outperforms most of them.  It's just a matter of finding the right shade 😄.  I will definitely repurchase!

STOREPRICEOFFERS
Amazon$10.99Free Shipping
NYX$11.00Free Shipping + Free 2-Piece Gift Set Orders $35+
ULTA$11.00Free Shipping Orders $35+

The more I think about it, the more I realize that there really is no need to spend a lot on brow pens.  Milani and NYX have got you covered.  The only one I think might be worth the price though is the Urban Decay Brow Blade but only because it is double sided so you get more bang for your buck.  Even so, I still enjoy the more affordable pens more!

Rating

This post may contain affiliate links to help support this blog.  
None of these reviews sponsored, nor were any of the products provided for free (or even at a discount) by any affiliate.
Read full disclosure here.

I aim for continuous improvement; not only with regards to life skills, but also when it comes to skin care.  Every product in my skin care ...

I aim for continuous improvement; not only with regards to life skills, but also when it comes to skin care.  Every product in my skin care routine is thoughtfully selected but one place that my routine seemed to be lacking in was improved skin texture.  That's where the PMD Personal Microderm Classic comes in.  

PMD
Personal Microderm Classic Review

PMD Personal Microderm Classic Review (with before and after results!)

INFO SHEET


Brand:  PMD
Product:  Personal Microderm Classic
Price:  $159
Where to Buy:  Amazon, Nordstrom, Ulta

Now that I've resolved my moisture barrier issue, the next item on my skin care agenda was to improve my skin's texture.  I have gotten Microdermabrasion's at the spa before, but I found it was too costly to do so consistently.  Plus I am more of a home-body so I would prefer to just do everything from the comfort of my own home.  This led me to the purchase of the PMD Personal Microderm Classic device.  I have heard many good things about it so I decided to check it out.  PMD boasts that this device can help achieve the following results:

    • 96% of users notice improved skin care product absorption
    • 95% of users felt more confident in their skin after using the Personal Microderm (okay..?)
    • 100% of users found their skin to be smoother and softer after using the Personal Microderm device

    • Power adapter
    • Body cap
    • Facial cap
    • Ultra Sensitive Training Disc (White)
    • 2 x Very Sensitive Discs (Gray)
    • 2 x Sensitive Discs (Blue)
    • 2 x Moderate Discs (Green)
    • Reusable filter

It says that it comes with two of each Gray, Blue, and Green discs, but when I received it I realized that one disc is the larger size for the body and the other is the smaller size for your face.  The PMD Personal Microderm functions by suctioning a small amount of skin into a hole on top of the cap; so that it can make contact with the rotating abrasive disc inside.  I guess it's kind of safer that way so people don't try to drill it into their face lol.  

I thought everything on paper sounded pretty good, but I wasn't sure if it would really do everything that it claimed... or if my skin would freak out..


BEFORE & AFTER

PMD Before and After! Notice how my skin looks less bumpy?


It's really hard to photograph skin texture with a cell phone (boy did I try), but my pores are definitely less deep set than before.  The area around them also appear to be more plump but also less lumpy.  From a distance, my skin just looks more smooth overall.  

The visible results take time (at least 8 weeks imo) and it really depends on the type of disc you use.  Since my skin is highly reactive to everything, I began using the PMD Personal Microderm Classic with the White "Ultra Sensitive" Disc so my skin could get used to it - this is also called the "Training Disc".  After the White disc started to appear dull and feel smooth on the edges I switched to the Gray "Very Sensitive" Disc.  Now I am finally using the "Sensitive" Disc which by far has better results.  

Some results are pretty much instant however.  I immediately noticed after using the PMD Personal Microderm Classic device for the first time is that it leaves my skin soft - like ridiculously soft.  It takes all of my self control to not touch my face because it feels like baby cheeks.  The feeling is identical to how it is after I get a microdermabrasion at a spa.  As an added bonus, my skin soaks up all of my skin care products right away and I believe they become much more effective.  

TECHNIQUE
Since the PMD Personal Microderm Classic uses suction to bring the skin up into the cap in order to graze the rotating disc inside, the last thing you want to do is let it linger on one spot for too long.  You would essentially be: 1) Sanding your face, and 2) Giving yourself a hickey.  I start from the chin and move the device in a quick diagonal motion towards my temple.  I never go over the same spot twice because it can be damaging to the skin.  PMD provides this great graphic showing the technique.

Keep the device moving!


MAINTENANCE
After the PMD Personal Microderm Classic is used, you can see dead skin collected within the cap and on the filter (kind of cool but gross); so it's important to clean the device after every use.  I unscrew the facial cap and remove the disc and filter.  I then wash the cap, disc, and filter with hot soapy water, rinse, and lay on a clean paper towel to dry.  I also wipe down the well where the filter is housed with 90% isopropyl alcohol.  The 90% solution evaporates quickly so it won't get inside the device.  After everything is clean and dry, I reassemble the PMD Personal Microderm Classic and place it inside a ziploc bag to keep it safe and ready for next use.  


FINAL THOUGHTS


I am really saving quite a bit of money not going to the spa to get microdermabrasions.  I also love my little PMD Personal Microderm Classic device.  Not only has it made visible improvements to my skin; I feel that it makes my skin care products all the more effective - pretty much what it said it would do.  This is a win in my book!

STOREPRICEOFFERS
Amazon$119.25Free Shipping
Nordstrom$159.00Free Shipping
ULTA$119.25Free Shipping Orders $35+

If this device ever broke I would immediately go out and buy another one.  That's how essential it has become in my routine.  I just cant imagine not using it, plus my skin loves it!

Rating

This post may contain affiliate links to help support this blog.  
None of these reviews sponsored, nor were any of the products provided for free (or even at a discount) by any affiliate.
Read full disclosure here.

I was in the market for a home Laser Hair Removal device, but a majority of the reviews I found were for dark hair and pale skin... What abo...

I was in the market for a home Laser Hair Removal device, but a majority of the reviews I found were for dark hair and pale skin... What about us tan folks?  Have no fear!  I spent the money and tested it on myself to provide you all with some nice before and after shots 😊.



TRIA BEAUTY
Hair Removal Laser 4x Review

Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X Review - with Before & After shots!

INFO SHEET


Brand:  Tria
Product:  Hair Removal Laser 4X
Price:  $449 
Where to Buy:  Amazon, Tria Beauty

I stopped wearing sleeveless shirts because my armpit hair grew very quickly.  I would shave in the morning and have a 5 o'clock shadow by the end of the day.  I also didn't like that when I did shave, my armpits still looked dark because the root of the black hairs were still visible under the skin.  I was so self conscious because of this :(... so I decided it was time to zap it all away. 

There so many lasers to choose from, but I ultimately chose the Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X for a few reasons:  Tria uses a diode laser which is the same type that would be used at a spa.  All of the other options were IPL lasers (like the Silk’n Sensepil), and would require purchasing replacement bulbs.  I've been burned many times in the past with products that required replacement parts, only for them to be discontinued.  I don't want to be stuck in that situation again.  

Also, the Tria 4x Hair Removal Laser has a life of 200,000 pulses, whereas one cartridge of the Silk’n Sensepil Permanent Hair Removal laser is only 1,500 pulses.  I figure the 200,000 pulses without having to buy bulbs will be more than sufficient for my needs.  

As far as my "stats" are concerned:  I have thick black hair on tan skin.  My MAC Shade is NC37 but if I were standing in a drugstore looking for a foundation I would most likely go for something that says "Light Medium" or "Light Medium Neutral".  If you need a visual guide, I would say that my skin tone is similar to Eva Longoria's.  Hope that helps!


BEFORE & AFTER

Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X - Before and After 3 Treatments

Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X - Before and After 6 Treatments

Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X - Before and After 9 Treatments

Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X - Before and After 12 Treatments


PREPARATION
I would shave about four to five hours before using the Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X.  That way my skin is less sensitive from shaving, but also doesn't allow for enough time for stubble to appear.  The trick is to get the laser to target the dark root under the skin.  Otherwise, the stubble will simply burn and be more painful.  I also used the Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X on a weekly basis (thinking back; I believe results may have been even better if I did it every two weeks per the instructions, but I was impatient).

PAIN
For me, the Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X hurts a lot on my armpits.  I usually have a high pain tolerance, especially when it comes to beauty.  I'll be the first to wax things here and zap things there, but this was a different pain.  When I first started, I would use the second weakest setting (out of five) and it had me gritting my teeth.  Now that my hair is greatly reduced, I am able to bump it up to three out of five, and it still really hurts.  I would describe the pain to be somewhat like pressing a freshly blown out match head to the skin.  Not sure if it's because of my skin tone or the thickness of my hair, but I hate how it feels.

RESULTS
Check out the before and after pictures.  It WORKS!  I didn't know what to expect because most of the reviews were for dark hair on pale skin, but I'm happy to say that it worked on my tan skin as well.  The above results took 150 pulses per armpit, per week, for 12 weeks.  The first four sessions were on setting 2 of 5, then the rest were on 3 of 5.  As for the battery life:  It was okay.  I put it to charge after every session so it can be ready for the next session.  I would say the battery lasts for about 400 pulses (depending on the setting).  I can't imagine using the Tria Hair Removal 4X on large areas like your legs though.  The treatment window is only 0.375in (1cm) across so it would just take forever, and you would have to charge midway.  


FINAL THOUGHTS


I'm really happy with my Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X.  My armpit hair is GREATLY reduced!  I wasn't expecting 100% removal since from what I've read, laser hair removal (home or spa) does not get rid of unwanted hairs completely.  The only way to truly achieve that is through electrolysis so I don't think this would be helpful for those with PCOS.  Overall, I feel that I definitely got my money's worth with this product with being able to treat multiple areas.  It simply comes out cheaper than going to a spa and I get to do it in the comfort of my own home.  My armpits don't look dark anymore (see that bluish hue in the before picture?) and I'm no longer self conscious about wearing sleeveless shirts.  Mission accomplished!  

STOREPRICEOFFERS
Amazon$459.00Free Shipping
Tria Beauty$459.00$10 Off First Purchase + Free Shipping

The only downside is that it hurts a lot and I don't think there is a way around that.  You can use it over a soothing gel (I use the one from Tria), and it does help with the lingering pain.  Icing the area helps too, but the treatment area warms up too quickly.  I just don't know if there is any practical way to reduce the initial pain of the zap.  To me, the results are still worth it though.

Rating

This post may contain affiliate links to help support this blog.  
None of these reviews sponsored, nor were any of the products provided for free (or even at a discount) by any affiliate.
Read full disclosure here.

My gray hairs are starting to pop up more and more along my hairline 😞.  I don't think I'm ready to dye my hair, and I'm not su...

My gray hairs are starting to pop up more and more along my hairline 😞.  I don't think I'm ready to dye my hair, and I'm not sure if I ever will be.  Certainly there must be a way to meaningfully cover the grays up for a few weeks at a time, right?  Does oVertone work for that?  



Can oVertone
Cover Gray Hairs?

Can oVertone be used to blend gray hair?


INFO SHEET


Brand:  oVertone
Product:  Coloring Conditioner
Shade:  Espresso Brown
Price:  $13 for 2oz Sample Size, $32 for 8oz Full Size
Where to Buy:  Amazon, oVertone

The sparse white hairs on the front of my head have become too long to cover up with EverPro Gray Away.  To be honest, I've never dyed my hair before and I'm not really looking to start, but these hairs are starting to annoy me as they peek though my bangs.  I don't really want to be bothered with measuring / mixing a small amount of dye and developer and putting all this junk on my head; so oVertone seemed like something to try.  I just want to slather it on, do some work, and rinse it off.  I'm far too busy for all of that other stuff!  

What I liked about oVertone is that it is free of sulfates, parabens, and ammonia; meaning that it won't disrupt my keratin treatment that I worked so hard to do on my own.  

For this review I will be testing oVertone in Espresso Brown on my gray hairs


I've seen conflicting reviews about oVertone not really sticking to gray hair, so I'm really not sure if this is going to work.  Because of this, I bought the 2oz sample size to try it out.  My hairs are sparse enough that even if they are covered a little bit then I will be happy.  

On to the results!


BEFORE & AFTER

It worked!  The longer I left it in, the deeper the color.

I slathered the oVertone on dry hair all over the front of my hairline, put a plastic cap on, and let it sit for an hour.  After I rinsed and blow dried, I noticed that it looked a little orange (the picture makes it look waaayy more orange).  So I decided to put it in for another hour and a half after that.  The ingredients seem gentle enough that I wasn't worried about damage.  Plus I've seen people leave this stuff on for as long as five hours on YouTube!  I think the heat really helps though, because it doesn't seem to stick to the white hair as well without it.

After leaving it in for two and a half hours total I was satisfied with the results.  The final result is more of a warm brown than orange (hard to tell in the picture).  Since my goal is to just make the grays less obvious; I think this experiment was a success:  My white hairs are no longer poking out of my bangs.  Did they come out in the Espresso Brown color?  No, but does it look better?  Yes.  


FINAL THOUGHTS


The question was:  Can oVertone be used to cover gray hair?  And the answer is... Somewhat.  It really depends on the hair type and amount of grays one has.  My hair did take the product pretty well and my intended use was to make my sparse white hairs against dark brown locks less obvious - so I am satisfied.  However, I don't think it would be useful for covering grays that are more prevalent.   

STOREPRICEOFFERS
Amazon$32.00 (8oz)Free Shipping
oVertone$13.00 (2oz), $32.00 (8oz)10% Off First Order + Free Shipping Orders $30+

Next time I will order the black because it might be a better match for me since the result could be darker / less warm.  Overall, I'm happy with how it came out though. 

Rating

This post may contain affiliate links to help support this blog.  
None of these reviews sponsored, nor were any of the products provided for free (or even at a discount) by any affiliate.
Read full disclosure here.

I picked up a T3 Cura Luxe Hair Dryer because my Paul Mitchell was just about ready for retirement.  Everything looked good on paper, but i...

I picked up a T3 Cura Luxe Hair Dryer because my Paul Mitchell was just about ready for retirement.  Everything looked good on paper, but it also has this Auto Pause "feature." Luckily, it can be turned off, and here's how!


T3 Cura Luxe Hair Dryer
How to Turn Off that Pesky Auto Shutoff Sensor

T3 Cura Luxe Hair Dryer - Turn Off Auto Shut Off


INFO SHEET


Brand:  T3
Product:  Cura Luxe Hair Dryer
Price:  $285.00

I was so happy when I bought my T3 Cura Luxe Hair Dryer.  When I returned from the store, the first thing I did was plug it in to test it out - make sure all of the settings were working.  To my dismay though, the darned thing kept turning itself off!  I knew there was an auto shut off feature on this blowdryer, but I wondered "how bad could it possibly be?"  I mean, who would design a blowdryer that shuts itself off constantly?

Well... T3 did.  As a matter of fact, the number one complaint regarding the Cura Luxe Hair Dryer is that it just wouldn't stay on.  Luckily, T3 tells you exactly how to disable this feature in it's handy dandy manual - which I believe many might have skipped out on reading.


STEPS


Though I did eventually warm up to the auto shut off feature since I tend to put the dryer down a lot while in use; here is how to disengage what T3 calls the "auto pause" sensor:

Step 1:  Plug in the T3 Cura Luxe Hair Dryer and Turn it On

Step 2:  Press and Hold Speed Switch for about 5 Seconds.
T3 Cura Luxe Hair Dryer - Turn Off Auto Shut Off

Step 3:  The Third Temperature Light will Blink to Disable the Sensor
T3 Cura Luxe Hair Dryer - Turn Off Auto Shut Off

Step 4:  Continue to Use Dryer as Normal


Now the auto shutoff feature will be disabled, but what if you change your mind and want to turn it back on?  Simply run through the steps above again and that's it!  Hopefully you'll enjoy using your T3 Cura Luxe Hair Dryer as much as I have been enjoying mine 😊.

Why do I keep buying brow pens?  I guess I just really like writing brow pen reviews.  I threw the Milani Weekend Brow Pen in my cart on a w...

Why do I keep buying brow pens?  I guess I just really like writing brow pen reviews.  I threw the Milani Weekend Brow Pen in my cart on a whim just to get free shipping.  It was affordable enough and my Ardell Stroke a Brow pen was running low.  


Milani
Weekend Brow Pen Review

Milani Weekend Brow Pen Review


INFO SHEET


 Brand:  Milani
Product:  Weekend Brow Pen
Shade:  Medium Brown
Color Payoff:  Good Pigmentation
Waterproof?:  Mild to Moderate
Price:  $8.99
Where to Buy:  Milani, Ulta

The Milani Weekend Brow Pen comes in the cardboard backed drug store makeup packaging that one would expect, but don't let the packaging fool you.  Milani makeup is actually pretty nice!  Especially their blushes.  I didn't even know Milani made a brow pen, but when I saw it I said to myself "yes."


SWATCH

Milani Weekend Brow Pen Shade Medium Brown Swatch

Milani Weekend Brow Pen Applicator


The first thing I noticed about the Milani Weekend Brow Pen is how small the brush tip is.  The tip is the smallest out of all the pens I have tried, but also not overly flexible allowing for the ability to make fine lines.  I also have to say this thing is super precise!  It's probably up there with the Lime Crime Bushy Brow Precision Pen; which was up until now, the most precise brow pen I have tried (out of Urban Decay Brow Blade, Ardell Stroke A Brow, and Stila Stay All Day).  

I wasn't too impressed the first time I swatched the Medium Brown shade of the Milani brow pen on my hand though.  While it is precise, the pigmentation was somewhat light.  So maybe I bought the wrong shade?  It's hard to tell with these things sometimes.  Next time I will purchase a darker shade to see if the color payoff is better (and share the results on this blog 😀).  

BEFORE AND AFTER


Milani Weekend Brow Pen survived the waterproof test!

Milani Weekend Brow Pen Shade Medium Brown


When I went to perform the water test, I wasn't feeling very hopeful.  The swatches for most of the other brow pens completely rinse off as soon as the water hits my hand.  I was surprised by the Milani Weekend Brow Pen however; since about 60% of the pigment remained after rinsing.  It also survived hand washing and required a little bit of scrubbing action with soap to get it off.  While 60% may not seem great for say, going for a swim;  it could probably survive a quick trip to the gym or other activities where a light sweat is involved.  

The Milani Weekend Brow Pen in shade Medium Brown seemed to be too warm for me when first applied.  This pen continues to surprise me though, because after 5 minutes it oxidized into a nice neutral dark brown color that blended with my brow hairs beautifully.  As always, brow pens have a bit of a learning curve when it comes to application, and the Milani brow pen is no different.  However, since the applicator tip is so small I feel like I have a little more control.  The fine tipped brush was able to pass between my natural brow hairs easily in order to efficiently draw in individual hairs.  I really liked the results!

The pen also has a little ball bearing inside to help mix the formula when you shake the pen.  The only other pen I have tried that also has this technology is Urban Decay Brow Blade.  I believe this has helped keep my Brow Blade from drying out in my makeup bag - lasting much longer than my other brow pens; so the fact that the Milani Weekend Brow Pen also has this feature is quite promising.  


FINAL THOUGHTS


I was pleasantly surprised by the Milani Weekend Brow Pen.   I purchased it on a whim and had zero expectations for it, but I think I will buy it again and maybe try out some other shades.  It is inexpensive and like I said before, Milani has a good track record of creating quality yet affordable makeup products. 

STOREPRICEOFFERS
Milani$8.99Free Shipping Orders $25+; Free Gift with Purchase Over $35+
ULTA$8.99Free Shipping Orders $35+

I'm glad that I was able to achieve a natural looking brow from this product.  I believe this brow pen is best suited for those with dry to combination skin and have somewhat sparse brows (or those who want a fuller brow).  I think the Milani Weekend Brow Pen is certainly worth trying out; especially given the price!

Rating

This post may contain affiliate links to help support this blog.  
None of these reviews sponsored, nor were any of the products provided for free (or even at a discount) by any affiliate.
Read full disclosure here.

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Skin Shade: MAC NC37
Skin Type: Combination / Oily
Skin Issues: Acne Prone / Sensitive / Aging / Texture

Currently Testing: The Ordinary Argireline Solution 10%

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This blog not intended to be a substitute for the professional advice of a doctor, dermatologist, or medical professional of any kind. It is strongly encouraged to seek the guidance of a professional before trying any skin care products, skin care routines, or any practice related to skincare or general health.​